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Reviews
Billy Elliot (2000)
A joyful surprise!
What a movie! I wasn't exactly sure what to expect when I went to see this British import. I had seen trailers and it looked endearing but I didn't really want to see schmaltz. I am so glad I did see it. First of all, the story was very uplifting. Taking place in bleak Northern England during the coalminers' strike in the early 80s, watching Billy made me feel as if I squandered my early childhood on having fun and not developing myself - losing myself to a passion. I know that sound VERY cheesy, but it's true. Jamie Bell's acting was excellent...his expressions of internal turmoil and triumph read easily through his face. The performances Jamie Draven as his tough, pro-union brother and Stuart Wells, as his gay best friend are also very telling.
I know I haven't done this film justice...I told my roommate it was The Cider House Rules of 2000 (I actually liked it better - more interesting struggle that strikes close to home and is more believeable).
See this movie...I doubt you'll regret it...and, who knows? You could leave the theater tapping your toes!
The Clandestine Marriage (1998)
Delightful movie
The Clandestine Marriage is definitely not Hawthorne's best work (Madness of King George) but it is quite fun and he does do a great job as the old, odd Lord Oglesby. The rest of the cast is fairly good too, especially Tom Hollander as Sir John and Timothy Spall as Sterling. Joan Collins was over-the-top and, in her English accent with a German twist, was kind of difficult to understand. Overall, I thought this a very entertaining, well-acted movie.
The Madness of King George (1994)
Smart, witty, excellent movie
I loved this movie. Not only was Nigel Hawthorne worthy of his Oscar, but the rest of the cast did a top-notch job, as well. The movie tells the tale of a brief episode in King George III's life when he experiences a sort of dementia. The subject matter did not weight the movie down as it remained light, humorous, and witty. I highly recommend this movie.
The Patriot (2000)
Very entertaining
I thoroughly enjoyed the movie. Of course it wasn't that accurate but it wasn't lauded as a documentary. The set, cinematography, and the battle scenes were very good. The acting wasn't that great (I was a bit disappointed in Heath Ledger - of course, Mel Gibson can't act his way out of a paper bag). Tom Wilkinson, as usual, is fabulous. I do think it was too long, though. But hey, at least we're getting our money's worth...what if it had been too short? Then people would complain. I would definitely recommend this movie as an entertaining way to spend an afternoon.