An admirable film about leadership!
934231
Tense story, placed in England during WW2, around a group USA fliers. They refuse to obey a Jurassic leader, excessively authoritarian. He will be substituted for another one who has a similar approach.

Far beyond of its intrinsic virtues, (towering performance of Gregory Peck) , the picture is still considered an authentic icon in what concerns to leadership and Management. How to get an absolute support of your group of soldiers, even in the worst conditions.

Size by size a potent and majuscule film. This is my favorite film of Henry King.
4793640
I just showed this film today to a class I teach at Portland State University, Ecology of War and Peace. During the first few weeks of class, we focus on the problems of the war system and now, today, I kicked off the elements of building a peace system with this film, which both produces and takes advantage of teachable moments. Every single student--even those who had been previously apparently catatonic--were enthused and insightful. I had to end class or they would have stayed late! It is, after all, a true story of "powerless" college students leading a nation to freedom. It doesn't get more relevant than that.
63578
Enlightening movie in regards to the 2016/17 political climate.  How easily we can be led.
2950801
The greed is good speech in this film is not to be missed!  It captures the essence of capitalism - though the intention of the film is anti-capitalism!  Given the recent high profile scandals of late many would agree with the premise of this movie!  I don't, but that is another matter.
What's really at fault, and what I think this movie is, is an expos&eacute; of human nature!  When we are tempted, do we resist or do we eat of the forbidden fruit?  The question is age old, we know the answers, yet some of us set these issues aside - to be confronted with the equal and opposite reaction to our actions and the moral decisions they bring about!
This is what makes this a good film!
1135461
Anthony LaPaglia shines in what might be called a "coming of middle age" film, recommended for everyone! When a recently-divorced (but hasn't completely let go of his marriage) down-and-out real estate agent gets a call from his "mother" (who died a year ago, by the way!), he meets an elderly woman whose friendship proves invaluable in the crisis which is his current life.

Full of drama, pathos and laughs, "A Month of Sundays" is a wonderful film which anyone should enjoy.

My only criticism is that the many depictions of tobacco-drug use should have been left on the cutting-room floor. Thus, I give this otherwise fine film 1 less star than I normally would.
4507267
First of all a "slow" film is not a bad thing. I tire of fast paced films that are like the empty calories you get from another over-sweet but useless soda drink.
There's clearly a lot more to this story than is presented but despite that I love the peaceful chaos leading to the event and the growth of the poor nebbish who triggered this social landslide. It was part protest of the war, a gathering of like-minded but diverse people and a musical event that changed music entertainment forever.
What really struck me was how even the smallest part played gave the sense that even this person, in this pivotal event, has an experience that could be successfully explored. Some complaints about wooden acting eludes me. The acting is sometimes stilted, stressed, but that's a wonderful reflection of how out of control this music fest became. After all, how would any small town and its residents react to half a million people showing up with only a week or so notice?
Demetri Martin was surprisingly well cast for this role. This poor guy has no idea what he's done and struggles appropriately with the newfound dissent of a lot of the townsfolk who hate what he's caused. His character Jacob also has to deal with the added stress the influx of thousands of happy freaks and music fans have on his town, his parents' business and the fallout triggered by the concert.
I particularly enjoyed the fact that being right there where it was all happening our hapless Jacob never manages to get close enough to see the actual concert. Like most of those in attendance all he can do is look into the distance at the pretty stage lights and listen to the music as it inundates like a wavering sea of sound (a great scene enhanced by way of some potent chemicals).
This is a brave film commemorating an incredible moment in American history and how one person brought it about as well as how it changed him. There's no deep meaning, not major issues resolved. There's change and there's acceptance, two fundamental aspects of personal revelation.
The cast was so well immersed in the period that while they all stand out, they are also contributing to the whole. Liev Schreiber as the cross dressing "Velma", Vilma (?) hotel security for Jacob and his parents is a treat. He's very effective as a sage and worldly man, like a social mentor to our sink or swim Jacob.
This is a film that's easy to view repeatedly.
I confess, being a young man when this occurred there's an easy affinity to these events especially since some great hippy/freak neighbors went to Woodstock. Even though they invited us along our father put his foot down. He was probably right, but still... based on what I've learned, I wish he'd relented.
2074934
Sonmi, what a fabulous film about truth, the progression of the soul through the Earth School and the nature of love eternal!

Those on the metaphysical path will most enjoy this film, but it offers a peek into what reincarnation would look like for the open-minded or undecided.  The unreality of the concept of time is dealt with intelligently, in line with the illusion of time all happening simultaneously, in an instantespecially when characters tap into key events of future selves. Especially when these characters find an anchor of peace there.

The film also handles the theme of bigotry well, not content to simply expose it but also to offer the truth of oneness.  The film may be even more relevant to 2017 than when it was released in 2012.

The acting is superb across the board. Visually its a feast. It bursts with creative touches, such as one of the languages of the future, the orchestral music, the makeup and the costumes. Im not a fan of violence, blood and gore, but Cloud Atlas stays within the bounds of that which serves the story and the message.  Action sequences satisfy the modern appetite for speed; again, they serve the story well.

I never care for cutting back and forth in time so much that the reader or viewer is left confused about much of whats going on in the first exposure.  While it makes a book or film more compelling (addictive), it doesnt serve the message.  As a consumer of books and movies, and as an author, I believe that message is paramount.  So, I prefer to serve the message over that which makes a work sell.  Thats my only complaint about Cloud Atlas. Otherwise it is superb.

Be good to yourself and watch this wonderful film!  Watch it twice!  Im about to do just that.
3621820
I loved the story. It is a simple produced movie but the story is really touchy. Leaders are born to lead, no matter who believes in them or not.
536361
My last name is a long Polish word which translates into "parsley" in English.  Eastwood's acting and directing is flawless.  Walt Kowalski, as Clint portrays him, reflects quite accurately just what my father's and uncles' (old-fashioned) Polish characters were very much like. We also had Italian in-laws in the family... and the exchange of verbiage, during family get-togethers, was a lot like that which occurred between Walt and his barber in the movie.
  The movie does reveal a marvelous fluidity of Walt's character; Walt does drop much of his ingrained structures of prejudice, at times... and this change from prejudice to compassion is very bright and sunny.  Humanity can change from rigid perspectives to more insightful and compassionate intelligence.
  As an aging man, I could relate to Walt's sagacious reflections and physical ailments and problems.  My favorite philosopher, J.Krishnamurti (who lived part of each year in Ojai, California), when he was alive, was very appreciative of many of Clint's films; Krishnamurti died at the age of 91.  He would have relished Grand Torino, with its perceptions beyond organized religion and its probing into flowering insight/compassion, i'm sure!
2605908
I truly enjoyed this film...it was moving...and will watch it again.  Production quality was very good...acting was excellent...story line was good, but the beginning of the movie required a leap of faith, no pun intended.  I would like to know how the spiritual leader, the guy (Preacher) who spoke to the team at the beginning, came to be at the school and in that position.  I would also like to have learned more about the white kid who first stood up when the Preacher asked who would join him.  That decision took guts...to be a teenager, in that racially angry atmosphere, and white...to be the first to stand.  But once past that spot in the film, I liked the way that "love" made such a difference.  This is a feel-good movie...so if you're in a not-so-good place and you want something to help lift you up...see this movie.  It's especially encouraging in that it's based on a true story.
44417
This is a great film -- it reminds me the most of "Whisper of the Heart" with the pacing and the atmosphere.  If you are a Ghibli fan, this is a no brainer: go watch this film.  Since it was directed by Hayao's son, Goro, I was a little worried that this would be another flop (see: Tales From Earthsea), but its a very charming film and still has the "Miyazaki" spirit.

The English voice acting, as with most other Ghibli films, is spot-on.  This time, the cast isn't as distracting as other Ghibli works, which works to its benefit.  Sometimes the "Disney"-released movies get a little distracting with their "all star" cast of voice actors, but this one has voices that really blend well with the movie.

The only issue I have with the film is that with this casual, meandering tale, it's hard to pinpoint a central meaning to it.  It's definitely more of a "slice of life" film than narrative-driven.  Additionally, the ending was very abrupt.  This didn't detract too much from the film itself, but it was noticeable. If you've seen "Pom Poko" -- it's similar in that way.

Some of the extras are refreshing, too.  It was interesting to see that, at the screening, Hayao was a little harsh on the team, yet at the same time encouraging.  It reminds me a bit of Steve Jobs's management style.  Goro was very apologetic to the team (even though the final product was very good).  It was very interesting to see the dynamic between all of them.  It shows how seriously they take building a film like this, and how they scrutinize and agonize over every detail.  They also briefly touch on the earthquake (which interrupted development of the film for a time).  It must have been a massive amount of pressure, even without the other issues.  It shows a little bit into how Ghibli becomes "Ghibli" and how dedicate they all are.

Although it feels a little rough and unfinished in parts, the Ghibli spirit shines through.  I feel like this is a good sign for Goro Miyazaki taking the reins of the Ghibli Studio and I look forward to his future endeavors.
2584251
What an amazing, powerful movie! A classic example of a great indy film. Great acting, great music score. The film rests on the young shoulders of a green actor, and Julian's performance drives the film, as does Leighton's. It's one of those bittersweet, what could have been stories, It portrays two people who, in almost any other situation, would have been a perfect match, but because one is older, and the other isn't old enough, it wasn't meant to be that way. Nevertheless, the film shows us this bond of friendship that brings these two loanly people together, and through the script and acting, it is what drives the film, and makes it so good. This movie really shows how well a simple action can be worth more than words. As you'll see, there's a number of moments where Leighton and Julian's characters are going through some tough moments, and by simply being there for each other, without words, it does a good job of showing how much they mean to one another. Highly recommended to any who enjoys a good story, and music.
2091551
This movie is nothing short of excellent. The look, the language and the lessons are not to be missed.  Polish Director Andrzej Pajda does an excellent job of putting fictional clothes on an atrocious, factual event that was almost lost to history.

Its the story of a little known genocide (22,000 slaughtered) that took place during WWII in Katyn Forest. Its the story of how war tears apart families and compromises allegiances.  Its the story of a country's occupation by foreign invaders and its national resistance toward that oppressor.  Finally, its the story of crimes against humanity and the lingering effects on those left behind to mourn their loss.

Pajda was so adept at weaving together the warring threads of three countries (Poland, Germany and Russia) that viewers might find themselves peeking between the soldier's seams to determine who's wearing the uniform. The Politics and Propoganda become apparently real as the movie comes to an unforgettably emotional climax.  I was also impressed by the subtle linkage of one family's story with that of another family. I didn't expect to make sense of some things I saw early in the movie, only to have their meanings illuminated later. The power of an Excellent film!

The DVD Extra which shows an interview with Director Andrzej Wajda is priceless. Here's what he had to say on the importance of education and developing one's self:

"Developing one's self through one's interests or work, making movies, creating an identity, the fact that one searches for people who think alike, is dangerous to any authority because authority always wants subjugation; to agree to everything. It wants an easy society."

On Patriotism: "Those who preach it the most, are the least suitable for it.  They have the least, so to say, heart, courage, and judgment to take advantage when the time is ripe."
989911
42 carries a few key messages for the human race: it's a true story of one man overcoming incredible odds and adversity to blaze a trail for common dignity and equal rights. It also depicts how love and friendship can prevail over hate and bigotry. Most of us know the Jackie Robinson story, and how his courage and poise helped him successfully break the color line in baseball, thus paving the way for the civil rights movement. This film focuses on the period of 1945-47, in which Jackie is sought after by Branch Rickey and eventually gets to play for the Brooklyn Dodgers. At no time is Jackie's journey a pleasant one, and this film emphasizes it. Harrison Ford does a stellar job of playing Rickey, who's religious and philosophical, and provides Jackie with a calming presence and guidance. Jackie's wife (Rachel) is played magnificently, as she was always the graceful and strong woman, and keeps his spirits up throughout his turbulent times. This movie isn't top-notch, but still good. It would've been more interesting to have a more comprehensive movie about Jackie, rather than just a two year period, but I understand why it was told that way.
2036747
What a great film! I loved it Wonderful ! A great story with a formidable message and alluring characters!
2682753
Anyone who likes character-driven movies should take a chance with this fine film!
A professional killer (played brilliantly by Bill Macy) is at a crossroads in his life as his own young son has reached the age when he himself was indoctrinated by his father to bottle his emotions and start shooting at squirrels, an activity that ended in him adopting the family business of paid assassinations.
That predicament is intriguing in itself, but handled as professionally as the film does, it is absolutely riveting. The dialogue is sharp and smart, and this relatively short film nevertheless has the power to elicit a full range of emotions from the viewer. There are places to laugh, to be shocked, horrified, saddened, aroused, angry, and to love. A wholesome treat.
It is an actor's movie, and the ensemble of terrific artists -- Macy, Neve Campbell, Ullman, and Ritter -- play off each other like members of a top-notch theatrical troupe, who realize that a quality product requires each actor to support the others unselfishly. Barbara Bain and Donald Sutherland -- who play father and mother -- are positive chilling, discussing the "family business" as if it were a grocery store or a dry cleaners. And remarkably, there's Sammy (David Dorfman), the young boy, who turns in an absolutely stunning performance, not to mention his uncanny resemblance to Ullman, whose son he plays! Great cast selection.
Watch this masterpiece if you get a chance! This is stuff you'd even want to own.
1997789
Genuinely spectacular! This well done story tells the truth and tragedy of bullying. Directed, written and starring 10-year-old Gerry Orz who portrays Adam Syder, the new kid in the neighborhood. Adam is being bullied by Nathan (Zane Paul), a boy who has a mother (Willow Hale) that treats him like garbage. Day after day Adam is beaten up and called names by Nathan and soon Adam has had enough.

One of the many reasons this film shines is the message it stresses- speak up! Bullying is a problem in our society. Whether its physical, verbal or cyber-bullying, it needs to stop and the message is addressed in a passionate way by the filmmaker. Orz shows the reality of what happens to many children who suffer from bullying. He doesnt take the easy route where someone is picked on and the teacher comes in and fixes the problem. He tells us the truth.

Everyone's point of view is examined, which I love, including the bully Nathan. The bully is not the villain. He wants to be friends with Adam, but his mother says otherwise. Whenever someone picks on me, my mom always tells me, "You don't know what happens behind closed doors. Shes right, I dont. The bully could be going through abuse himself or he might be jealous and bullying is the only way he knows how to express it.

My hats off to Zane Paul for his outstanding performance. We also have a heartbreaking story about Adams sister Miranda (Kaitlin Morgan). She knows Adam is being bullied, but she doesnt tell anyone. She thinks Adam will take care or it, which he does, in the wrong way.

By far, my favorite character is Adams mom (Kate Orz). Something tragic happens and we see this emotional scene between her and Miranda. Its hard to sit through because both Kates and Kaitlin's performances make this film even more powerful. It shows the struggle of not only the person being bullied, but the familys grief as well.

All these aspects of the film are amazing and what makes it truly phenomenal is that this film was made by Gerry Orz when he was ten years old! Gerry tells this story in a very mature manor that allows all ages to comprehend the dangers of bullying. His introduction to the film explains why he made it and what he wants you to learn from it. The introduction alone is worth the price of the film. Gerry doesnt want anyone else to go through the pain of being bullied and this proves the power of making a film on the subject.

This is a film for adults and kids, especially kids. I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to 8- to 18-year-olds. This film has one word in it that is not terrible, in fact its appropriate, but parents may not want their kids to hear it. Even with that I still highly recommend this film to kids so they can know to speak up and STOP the bullying. This film comes out on DVD October 14, 2014.

Reviewed by Keefer B.,KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, go to kidsfirst dot org.