Review of Hard Eight (1997) by Bryan T — 11 Feb 2008
A simple but greatly entertaining thriller from Paul Thomas Anderson. The only major problem I have with it is that P.T. only contributes to Samuel L. Jackson's typecast, in a performance we've seen several times before.
Aside from that, P.T. has an almost crystalline vision in his head of his characters and story. An assured noir piece from the man that evolved into the smartest and strongest young filmmaking talent working today.
It's naturally a little amateurish at times, but the intrigue surrounding Sydney and the unique, wonderfully rhythmic language that he speaks can only result in multiple viewings. At times, it's frustrating because the characters talk in such loops, but overall this is extremely cool stuff.
This kind of depth and maturity can only be indicative of a born filmmaker.
This review of Hard Eight (1997) was written by Bryan T on 11 Feb 2008.
Hard Eight has generally received positive reviews.
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