Review of Elling (2001) by Cindy K — 01 Jan 2005

I've been busy so I unfortunately won't be able to write in depth reviews or anything, but here are my most recent viewings.

[b]Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)[/b] Great premise, well acted and directed, funny, and generally awesome. Loved it! 10/10.

[b]Elling (2002) [/b]My first introduction to Norwegian cinema (I'm visiting Norway this summer.) A touching and often humorous tale about two friends who met in a psychiatric ward and their dealings as they move out and try to make it in the real world. Anyone know any other films from Norway? 8/10.

[b]Collateral (2004)[/b] It was alright. I probably wouldn't have even given this movie a look if it wasn't for the fact that it was a Tom Cruise vehicle. Jamie Foxx was good, but by the time the predictable ending rolled around, I had mentally checked out. 7/10.

[b]Garden State (2004)[/b] I was indifferent to Zach Braff before, but after watching this movie, I have a newfound respect for him. I appreciate that it was a serious movie with a message, and his taste in music rocks. The only reason I docked it a point was because I wasn't able to see the movie in its entirety (the DVD I rented was scratched and so I missed whole sections of the movie.) Regardless, from what I did see, I enjoyed it a lot. 9/10.

[b]Before Sunset (2004)[/b] I love this movie. It's just as good as its predecessor. Julie Delpy is absolutely charming and Ethan Hawke won me over with his boyish laugh. I dug the pseudo-intellectual speak and just the whole idea of having a long conversation with "the one" you're meant to be with. It felt real, I felt transported with them as they walked around Paris and rekindled that connection. Afterwards, I was grinning from ear to ear, dancing around the apartment like a fool, and singing "Let me sing you a waltz..." 10/10.

Oh yeah, and Happy New Year to everyone!!!