Excellent movie. The plot is very powerful and controversial
922781
Excellent movie. The plot is very powerful and controversial. I strongly recommend it. This movie shows the hypocrisy of a very conservative society.
4209077
I saw this in the theatre first - it is a very polarizing film indeed. Not all will like it or understand it but it is wildly original, darkly funny (yes, there are a couple of very disturbing scenes too) and performed beautifully by all the actors, especially Colin Farrell, Olivia Coleman and Lea Seydoux. Seydoux plays the ruthless Loner Leader with a deadpan steeliness and is unlike anything she has done before. Well worth seeing if for no other reason than to debate the meaning of it with others.
2639305
A very poignant movie with backbone about Romanian university students in the late 1980's. While the social and political commentary are obvious, it is the exploration of heart-wrenching decisions in this movie that will keep you engaged despite a slow start. I watched this movie based on its reviews from notable critics. I appreciated a strong commentary on the support of women by women themselves, as well as the role of women in Romania in a fairly recent time, is present throughout. The content and choice of visuals in this movie is VERY affective and effective in making its mark, regardless of the viewer's opinion on the subject matter. I found myself saying, "Well, they aren't really going to show that, are they?"
3914837
"Kids" is one of the most controversial releases of 1995.  Its brilliant and daring plot earns the writers tremendous respect.  The inside look of a sexually active teenager, Telly, teaches many lifelong lessons about the dangers and the consequences about such lifestyles.  All of his friends influencing him and applauding him for his actions keeps the film interesting as it helps explores other dangerous lifestyles: drug use, violence, etc.  In the meantime, they explore another storyline: that of one of Telly's ex-sex partners, Jennie, who discovers she's HIV-positive.  Telly is the only sex partner she's had.  While she's trying to find Telly to share the news to him, he chases another potential sex partner.  Such combination offers a more intense movie experience and adds more twists and turns.  Obviously, the writers never held back any graphic details.  They share the scenes with the audience like no one is acting.  The camera work and the lighting add to the danger effect.  The lights shine brighter in most of the afternoon scenes, successfully offering a more graphic view of the characters' environment and a more raw feel.  Had they not done that, the danger feel wouldn't have been as heavily present.  Leo Fitzpatrick ("Bully")wonderfully portrayed Telly, offering his own bad boy image into the character and to the movie.  His research about the expressed issues is obviously present.  Oscar nominee Chloe Sevigny ("Boys Don't Cry") proves in her role as Jennie that she is one of the greatest independant movie actresses ever.  As with all her projects, her every drop of heart and soul is fully expressed through her character.  All other actors also perform their roles wonderfully.  "Kids" is a great movie for those looking for something daring.  This is highly recommended for parents to show their kids.  Few other movies show as much realism as "Kids".  Behind that, this is sure to please many audiences.
23581
This was an excellent movie!  In the same style as Brave Heart but not as long.  I hope that other people don't expect too much from it though.  Holes in the plot must be forgiven in order to get a good feeling out of  the film as a whole.  The characters are powerful and the message of past  culters can still be heard.  The action draws you into the story and then  you have to read the book to get the rest.  A must see if you are a person  who reads the book afterwards.
2726580
This movie entrances you to Maria's plight, from unbearable working conditions, from poverty, from unwanted pregnancy, to a dangerous adventure with the drug underworld, and later to her 'brave new world' in America.  It mesmerizes the viewer in a manner that does not shock but rather beckons us to empathize and discuss.  Its a masterpiece of a movie that plays with our emotions using a subject that is neither glamorous nor family-oriented.

Its amazing that this movie did not become a household event since it deals with the viciousness, the callousness of drugs in an unpatronizing manner, yet its message is powerful.  It forces us to rethink our priorities, and makes us appreciate what we have here in America much more.  If only the same 'kids in America' can appreciate such opportunities instead of falling prey to the same predatory nature of drugs. This movie is a must for parents who need to explain to their budding teenagers the dangers of drugs and fast money.  A must see.  Great acting and directing!  You almost forget that you are actually watching a foreign film, reading the subtitles because you are totally engross with the movie.  Very very good.
728038
Very good movie with a powerful message.  There's a bit of a mystery and twist to the story when Aggie is talking to the police that's very subtle but becomes plain as the story unfolds. Besides being a message that needs to be heard, it's great for Kevin Sorbo fans!
431786
I am very surprised by the number of negative reviews of this movie. This really is an outstanding movie based on a great book. I think people often miss the meaning behind this movie and to some extent the book. It is a slow moving plot. No one would argue that. But that is not the point. The movie and the book are focused on life and how we live our lives and are affected by different events in our life.  The lead character is grappling with his impotence caused by the war and cannot seem to bring himself to accept it. Because of his impotence he feels that he is not worthy of the love of his life and tries to hide from her. But she is deeply in love with him and seeks him out even though she is sometimes oblivious to her own feelings . Underlying this main theme are a number of other themes dealing with the impact of war on people and the adoption of different lifestyles caused by the impact of different events such as war etc. The movie really captures all of these themes quite well.

Tyrone Power is outstanding in the lead role. He really captures the mental suffering that his character experiences as a result of his impotence. In my view Tyrone Power was an extremely underrated actor based perhaps on the fact he had to accept a number of lighter roles which affected critics' perceptions of him. He is tremendous in this role. He really captures the agony of his situation and the depression he is battling which is another sub-theme that was close to Hemingway's heart. Ava Gardner is also extremely good in this and captures all of the aspects of her character's frustrations, instability and recklessness. The interactions between Power and Gardner are tremendous but they are subtle and nuanced. You really have to work when you watch this movie or read the book. The movie is not in your face. It is very subtle and deep and moving and you have to work to understand its meaning and themes. As everyone agrees Errol Flynn is magnificent in this. Once again this is an example of a very underrated actor. This movie is also about the unfairness of life and how we must all deal with the impact of events on us and make the best of our lives even though we might feel that we have been dealt with unfairly . This is a great movie that will stay with you long after you have watched it. Also, it is based on a very underrated Hemingway book.
1282080
This is a sad but extremely thought provoking movie.
We were still talking about it the next morning.
I would highly recommend it but make sure you are
in the mood for some heavy drama.
In my opinion, a must see.
813485
While this is a very good movie it also gives a very raw, realistic look at sex trafficking. Much more so than the recent Taken movies. Its sobering not only in that its based on true events, but that certain law enforcement organizations we would think trustworthy would be involved in this darkest side of abuse of women. I'll leave it there to keep from spoiling the plot for you - it really is a good film but I rarely cry at films and this one got to me. I'll often watch movies I love more than once, and this was definitely important to see I think but i'll never watch it again.  So, YES I'd recommend it (especially if you're a Rachel Weisz fan as I am), but please use your judgement before letting your kids watch it. It is UGLY, it does not hold back.  Heartbreaking, but very well done.
750997
This is a very good movie. Yet, there are many movie fans that do not know of it's existence. It is up there , and I think even better than the more famous Australian war movies. Taking place during WW1, and a little romance on the side, you are taken in by all the characters and genuinely like all of them. The planting of the propaganda and the developement, skill and thought putting it into action plus the charge at the end of the movie make for an exciting drama/love story from start to finish. I am very pleased to have discovered this movie and had the curiosity to watch it. It was rewarding.
2038489
Amazing movie, very powerful and well worth the price.
2349337
Irene Dunne and Walter Huston are two of my favorites, one reason I like this film so much.  Sinclair Lewis wrote biting commentaries on social issues, often shocking for their day (another great example, another of my favorite movies, is Dodsworth, also with Walter Huston).

[SPOILER ALERT] Ann Vickers is a social worker, who eventually gets a Ph. D.  The film opens with her going to Cuba for an abortion (pregnant out of wedlock).  Later, she becomes a prison warden, and writes a controversial, bestselling book about prison reform.  She has the odd notion that maybe prison should be about rehabilitation, about treating people ethically, instead of abusing and warping them further.  Later she falls for a disreputable, married judge (Walter Huston), with whom she has a passionate affair.

There are more controversies in store, but I won't ruin the plot.  What is unusual here is not simply the fact that this pre-Hayes film has such controversial subjects, it's the fact that the film did not apologize for people's "shortcomings."  Ann Vickers is a complex woman, full of ideals but also passions; she is magnificent but also flawed, makes many mistakes.  There is no moralizing about her "downfall."  In fact, the film has a happy ending.  The chemistry between the radiant Dunne and bad boy Huston is palpable, romantic, and very satisfying.  I highly recommend this film and am awaiting the release of the DVD.
3837946
This is an excellent film which rewards repeated viewings, whatever your politics. It's not a film that's opposed to the Iraq War itself, and it never properly addresses the rights and wrongs of the conflict. Rather, it's a depiction of what can happen to the individuals involved.

It's also a film with shifting perspectives. Tommy Lee Jones' character makes a lot of good calls-- and a few bad ones, just like the people he's working with. And the soldiers are not damned by any means-- they each achieve varying degress of redemption.

The fact that a film like this can come out while the conflict is ongoing and still find an audience is a tribute to the film industry, and The United States generally. Consider the Vietnam War and look at how long it took for Hollywood to start getting into those issues.

It's a tremendous, affecting film with spot-on performances, and strong messages, and it will stand the test of time.
2864093
Really great movie. I think the editing was nearly flawless, the script was great and so was the acting. Powerful message!
4683028
This Brazilian drama will leave nobody indifferent. It doesn't happen everyday that we can watch such a controversial, yet interesting story.
Aluisio Abranches did a great job as a director. His picture is sublime. I watched it without taking break etc.
But there is one thing that bothered me a bit.
Maybe it is the way he led the actors and action, but his potray of brothers' love seems to be pure and natural (as if there was nobody around Thomas and Francisco who found their relationship at least "not propriate"). Even parents don't react (well, a small talk between divorced parents doesn't count). But it's then, when mother says that very important sentence, which could be the bottom line of the whole film.
Watch yourself and find it.
Moreover, the ending itself left a little marigin of doubt. A small question mark, so visible on Thomas' face...Was it meant to be there? Did the director want to tell us something?
We will never know that.
To sum up:
Acting (both young and older actors) is magnificent, beautiful soundtrack suits the action very well. Don't miss this one!
2498748
Incredible story, acting was over the top excellent; I highly recommend this movie.  I thought it also did a good job of dramatizing the long last impact of what happened to families and how goverments continue to perpetrate violence onto these groups of people by denying them their property.