Change Your Image
Enrique-Sanchez-56
My tastes are a bit eclectic because I love so many genres equally and excuse so many of the errors made in film-making that others cringe madly over.
I forgive boom mikes that appear at the top of the screen and I excuse glasses that are half-filled one minute then, empty, then full again.
Filming is not a perfect art. Even CGI has its insufferably horrendous flaws which will never be 'just right' because there is still no way to capture the true essence of humanity.
But I don't mind CGI...it has its purpose in the development of film. How many times do we see fantasy backdrops and phony-looking rear projections in movies that we absolutely adore? I dare say...probably more than a handful.
So, here I am...from silent to the latest, from indies to major studio blockbusters, from historical, to romance, melodrama, film noir, slapstick, to science fiction, absurd cinema, adventure, psychological and thrillers, silents...I have room for all of them in my heart and mind.
After all, it's all fantasy and theater, isn't it? And isn't that why we watch?
Cheers.
Ratings
Most Recently Rated
Lists
An error has ocurred. Please try again
The BEST movies you've probably never seen
Reviews
I Dream of Jeannie: The Girl Who Never Had a Birthday: Part 2 (1966)
Writers destroyed entire premise of show with one scene!
A surprise birthday party during this episode, with famous guests like Shakespeare, Cleopatra, Sigmund Freud, Ben Franklin, Henry VIII, and Marie Antoinette completely destroyed the entire premise of the show.
I ask: If Jeannie were in her bottle for 2.000 years, HOW could she have possibly met these people who lived while she was in captivity??
It begs the question as to what kind writers this program actually had. I know this was a fantasy show, but in what kind of fantasy could this occur?
Did ANYONE realize how implausible this short segment was? If nobody did or didn't care, I pity these writers who destroyed the entire premise the show with one scene! A fantasy should have its own rules, right?
What Ever Happened to Aunt Alice? (1969)
STELLAR PERFORMANCES
I thought I had seen this movie before. It came up on YT list and I found out who was IN IT. That was enough for me. Two of my absolute favorite actress of all time GERALDINE PAGE and RUTH GORDON!
Goodness gracious! Page should have won a GOLDEN EMMY for this Stella performance! I can't believe I stood up so late to catch this. What an intriguing story, the deviousness of Page's character was blood curdling!
And so was Geraldine's performance! SO INTENSE! Her looks, her subtlety... in crafting this almost forgotten TV movie is just astounding. There is a reason why Geraldine Page has been lauded by hundreds of critics as one of the greatest actresses of all!
Alienated (2021)
Utterly Charming - Offbeat Alien Tale ♥♥♥♥
Once in a while, filmmakers conjure up an unique story about aliens that goes about it in a different way.
I didn't know what to expect - because there was little indication that this would be one of stories that grabbed you by a different tangent of your psyche.
This was not a film that was IN YOUR FACE like most sci-fi movies that thrust you into special-effects. On the contrary, you find yourself in what seems like a normal, quirky tale of people and how they meet aliens.
But maybe I am revealing too much already.
Suffice it to say, it was not a masterpiece, nor a bastion of stellar acting or celebrities. It was a small story that should engage those thirsty for a story versus being bombarded by effects and over-the-top scientific terminologies.
And I truly enjoyed the ride and the protagonists.
Recommended only for thoughtful individuals.
Altered Hours (2016)
THIS resonates with me - although I hate drug movies!
The truth is, Ryan Munzert, the main character, made this film for me. Something about either his portrayal or his person was very accessible to me and I was easily drawn into his issues from the beginning. I wasn't sure where it was going, but slowly the movie made sense to me and the science fiction only accentuated their journey.
For some, it may take more than one viewing to really immerse themselves into this really FINE effort by all.
Recommended for those who enjoy challenges in the movies!
The Outer Limits: Expanding Human (1964)
Keith Andes and Skip Homeir
This isn't much of a review as it is a long-burning childhood obsession. From the first time I saw this episode, in elementary school, I became extremely confused with the story because of one aspect of the production that dogged me for years. In my child's mind, I could not distinguish between Andes and Homeir. Some of their facial characteristics are similar, and even more similar if one is not a discerning child, or maybe adult, too.
I am convinced that it was a very poor casting mistake to have paired the two actors in an episode which is actually about the facial transformation of one of the characters.
TO THIS DAY, I have to focus on which is which!
Besides that, this was a very engaging episode!
The Dick Van Dyke Show: Pink Pills and Purple Parents (1964)
Mary Tyler Moore - TERRIFIC
After 50+ years, Mary never fails to leave me on the floor laughing in this episode. Her performance was so delightful after Dick's parent's arrived for their first dinner together ...I can't say enough about her silly medicated state.
No question, she was the most perfect choice for this TV role. Her multi-talents served this series so well and contributed GREATLY to establish The DVD Show as an enduring classic.
Take care, Mary... wherever you are :)
Mission: Impossible: The Heir Apparent (1968)
BARBARA BAIN - Most Glittering Hour ♥♥♥♥
Having now watched this engrossing hour several times, I can only conclude that it was Ms. Bain's FINEST HOUR on Mission Impossible.
The IMF and this series lost much of its stature when she was obligated to leave the show due a short-sighted political salary dispute - which Ms. Bain and her husband Martin Landau SHOULD HAVE WON.
The quality of this then-married couple's performances in this series added immeasurably to the prestige of the program although subsequent performers are not being denigrated by this comment, BAIN and LANDAU have irrevocably enshrined this program to the legends of the finest hours in television history.
Deadline: Old Man Lost (1959)
Fascinating story With No Ending
SPOILER ******
This is a sad story about a man who had a strange type of amnesia. The episode explains some of the efforts to discover or make him snap out of his mental fog.
It is now general knowledge that the man who called himself 'WALTER JAMISON" died in 1975 without ever being identified - 16 years after this episode was aired in 1959. He did live out his last years being taken care of, so that is some consolation.
The final philosophical question is: do we ever know who we are or why we are here?
Studio One: The Remarkable Incident at Carson Corners (1954)
Extraordinary Dramatic Presentation
This is a moving story in an unusual situation where a loved member of a community is accused of murdering a child.
What is unusual is that the trial is organized by the town's children.
I won't reveal more of the plot because that won't serve any purpose. I must then tell you how engrossing this tale was.
The performances, even by the children, were remarkable, believable and very strong. I cannot just pick one of the adult performers to praise here because each and every one of them put out a powerful show. Many of the actors will be familiar to you from their work on TV and the movies. The production was gritty, realistic and so finely done for something that was done almost 70 years ago at the dawn of television. It was recorded on Kinescope and probably performed live. THIS ALONE provides the palpable excitement of a stage production and increases its immediacy.
If these now quaint productions in black and white perturb you in any way, I'd say you are missing out on some of the finest presentations from any era. For my dollar, THIS is highly recommended drama of the highest caliber.
My Three Sons: The Little Ragpicker (1960)
Comedy of Errors
This has GOT to be one THE funniest episodes of MTS I have ever seen. It was filled misconceptions and confusions.
Poor Chip was the worse for wear after a neighbor misinterprets the goings on where nothing is what it seems!
I won't try to reveal how many levels of unintended conclusions were put together to create frivolity!
It's old innocent fun! I couldn't help myself with continuous enjoyment!
Night of the Demon (1957)
WOW - This was so GOOD!
So happy to have found this movie tonight.
It had the most wonderful cast, story, production, music!
I am afraid this movie really proved to me again, that British movies from the Golden Era were among the finest of them all.
The actual plot was not too unusual, but it was told in the finest manner without the tired trappings of a Hollywood film. Thank goodness.
It was really good and I recommend it to anyone who is searching for a good story told well.
Earthbound (2012)
What a WONDERFUL surprise ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
It boggles the mind why this movie isn't a blockbuster. OK it doesn't have the trappings of a Hollywood-contrived fantasy - BUT THAT is what makes this one of the most charming science fiction movies I have ever seen!
RAFE SPALL is what makes this work and it works so amazingly. His oh-so realistic performance touches the heart. I was caught up in every twice and turn of his psyche to the extent that at one point - it all seemed so terribly sad near the end.
The story is unusual and that is what attracted me. We are met with a story of speculative science fiction which follows NO PATTERN of storytelling or narrative. We are invited to experience a child-like wonder and to dream our dreams.
This movie is like no other I have ever seen. And I recommend it to any science fiction fan who is sick of all the cowboy stories that we are subjected to - which waste everyone's time without tugging at our brains or hearts.
This is the one I will never forget. Both Rafe Spall and Jenn Murray were perfect and I thank them for the experience. ♥♥♥
The Donati Conspiracy (1973)
Stellar - Absorbing - Nearly Perfect
But yet, I still gave this a "10" because the script and the performance by ANTHONY VALENTINE were so absorbing, so intense that no other rating would suffice.
What is most surprising is that in almost 50 years, I have neither heard of it nor has anyone had the compulsion to review this title. I found it on YouTube and merged the three chapters and waited for a good solid watch on this rainy Saturday afternoon.
There is no reason to spoil it for anyone here. The story is compelling to watch as the details of the story unfold and we realize just what kind of a world this takes place in.
Of course, dear Richard Beckinsale was terrific as was Michael Aldridge and Ian Gelder.
If you find it, watch it. That is all I am saying. It won't change the world, but you might be intrigued.
Cosmos (2019)
Weavers of Magic on Zero Budget ♥♥♥♥
SIMPLY one of the most exciting science-fiction movies to come around in a very long time. What the Weaver brothers with ZERO BUDGET have created in nothing short of a masterpiece in film-making.
Those are too short-sighted to appreciate the deliberate pacing nor understand this achievement are on a different plane of existence from mine.
For me, it was absorbing, fascinating, and in fact, heartwarming. The three principal actors really made this movie, in the sense that there wasn't ever a false note, nor an unbelievable response from their acting. In fact...they were all completely believable and I connected with each one. I cannot say enough about this film that held my undivided attention for the entire two hours.
The cinematography was especially masterful throughout, the opening sequence was unforgettable in it's nuances.
Medium: Twice Upon a Time (2006)
Sweet SECOND story
I guess I'm some old fuddy-duddy sentimental fool. Yes, I'm talking about the one about Allison dreaming her life had gone in a different direction and her final realization that things ALWAYS are - as they were supposed to be - and you can't spoil this silly concept of destiny. So, one should accept the things that happen because any fork-in-the-road you take will you to the best of all possible worlds. No matter how you play the game, you will always wind up with the same score at the end.
Awesomely portrayed by Arquette and Weber - a la Sliding Doors.
That Girl: Don't Just Do Something, Stand There (1966)
54 years LATER - That Girl still CHARMS ♥
Just saw this episode again after 54 years, and I can safely say it was as charming as it was back when I was 10 years old! But now I understand all of jokes and situations!
Marlo had an effervescence that sparkled from every word she spoke. The striking difference in our culture after all that time, is somewhat sad. Yet, I can see where I got my first impressions of a million different things that formed my character and personality that were derived in small part to programs such as this.
It's a program that made me happy - and I am grateful for that to MARLO THOMAS and her comedic talents. And I am still happy today after watching this wholesome and funny first episode.
Alfred Hitchcock Presents: The West Warlock Time Capsule (1957)
Bobby Clark - UNCREDITED PART as "Charlie" the young boy !
Charlie, the boy who likes to hang out at the taxidermy shop, is played by child actor Bobby Clark (1944- ), who was on screen from 1949 to 1964 and who was also seen in the Alfred Hitchcock Presents episode, "Santa Claus and the Tenth Avenue Kid." He also had a part in Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956).
It is odd that a considerable speaking part was not credited for playing a part. It must be something to do with his being a child actor. But that is no excuse for this omission!
Touched by an Angel: An Angel on My Tree (2000)
Chris Marquette SHINES
Something must be said about Chris Marquette's remarkable performance in this very special episode of Touched by an Angel. The breadth of his portrayal as a child with Tourette's Syndrome impressed me enough to write this review.
I just hope that Chris reads this one day and knows what kind of an impact he made on so many people who live their lives with this ailment.
This wasn't just a child performing - this was a young artist demonstrating his skills at the highest level.
I won't say much about the other players since they were all very fine - but no one shined like Chris Marquette.
Early Edition (1996)
25 YEARS LATER - This program never fails to entertain and ...
...bring a tear to my eye. Why? It has everything you could want from a program! Acting, production, plots, intrigue, writing : ALL GOOD. All satisfying without a cringe in sight. Those who participate in this all too short series must be thanked for showing us that the public can be taught a few lessons without hammering our heads into the ground.
Kyle Chandler, Shanesia Davis and Fisher Stevens formed an unshakeably tight ensemble throughout the series. Kyle's unique characterization of Gary Hobson was always honest, warm - without being syrupy, quirky and fun to watch. His double-takes always brought a smile to my face! And he did the writers good in every respect.
Also, I enjoyed so much the characterizations of Ron Dean as Det. Crumb and William Devane and Tess Harper as Gary's parents. Not to forget Billie Worley as Patrick Quinn and Kristy Swanson and Myles Jeffrey as Erica and Henry Paget.
If you haven't caught this program and are looking for a special hour of television, go no further than EARLY EDITION ♥
The Carol Burnett Show: Jerry Lewis and Leslie Uggams (1971)
Jerry and Carol are GOLD
I can only comment on one skit during this episode. The one where Carol and Jerry play two nerdy and shy kids. This was one unforgettable classic routine! Suffice it to say that I laughed and marveled at the perfection of their comic timing. Jerry Lewis was made for this kind of comedy! He really brought back childhood memories of watching all his movies on television. There was no one like him and there probably won't ever be a comedian to match his talent.
The Twilight Zone: The Shadow Man/The Uncle Devil Show/Opening Day (1985)
Opening Day : Casting Error
OK. The story is interesting and the acting is passable for this kind of affair.
But the ONE thing that makes this episode fail miserably is the casting for the two wives in this tale. The two actresses are not at fault here. The one thing that caused me to be confused throughout and at the climax, which should have been obviously noticeable was blurred.
Why? Because the actresses "nearly" looked the same to my eyes. Both were attractive brunettes! At least they could have chosen one blond, one brunette to highlight the contrast between the two. Why? Because as I see it, I could not tell which wife was attached to which husband. It should have been clear-cut. Instead I found myself wondering which woman came back to Jeffrey Jones at the end?
Framed (1930)
Not Bad AT ALL
I really enjoyed this early talkie better than I expected. Evelyn Brent was terrific as a gal gone the wrong way - and she should have been a star or at least a major player. But that's always a roll of dice in Hollywood.
Any resemblance to a B-picture are wholly unfair. The plot was interesting - all the actors' performances were fine - all right, not stellar but - earnestly played except for the downplayed hoodlum played by Ralf Harolde. It does not bother that some have called it stagey. I expect this from the early talkies and I compensate for it and so should you.
The ending was whimsical and perhaps some of you may not expect it but I found it pleasing.
Early Edition: Dad (1997)
William Devane Makes this a Gem !
For years, I have admired Devane's unique and widely acclaimed acting style. But lately I have not seen him anymore as much since he has most of his career behind him. Today, I re-watched this charming episode again and realized the breadth of his talent and style. He was certainly accessible, but also fun to watch. But I also witnessed a quiet, honest warmth to his delivery that surprised me.
Devane's chemistry with Kyle Chandler was a joy to watch. Long may he wave!
Early Edition: Blackout (1998)
SOMETIMES - Humanity is all we got
This episode is one where at the end we get a beautiful resolve - one that I remember from a very funny movie called The Russians are Coming x2. It is not a tacky ripoff because it is generations away from this episode and I say that because it might not be a familiar situation to much of today's audience so it is a worthy resolve to emanate again.
Sometimes two opposing sides can be joined when an outside threat appears that will join these sides. Sometimes adversity can bring out the best in us, as we have seen time and time again in our nation. I chuckled when I saw it coming but it was just as pleasurable when I saw it here. Early Edition is one of those series that will remain a reflection of the inner nature of man - although that might sound trite, a trope or what you may call it - but IT WORKS here and I am thankful I witnessed it - and I THANK those involved with this series to shed LIGHT upon us all.
We surely need as much light as possible now.
Profiler: Train Man (2000)
Horrible Story Line warrants very little
I am not prone to review writing and story lines. But the degrading aspect of the characters depicted and their motivations was at first alarming and then truly despicable. I ask myself, why would a nation under racial turmoil produce such an unredeeming plot. It belittles racial stereotypes and genres of racial stereotypes to the point of casting a wholly negative light upon the vicissitudes of those who exist "between" races by depicting them as murderous and unworthy.
Although I found the episode compelling, the conclusion was shallow, harsh and unsympathetic to the plight of those who live in our world who do not fit in our woefully prescribed pigeon holes.
I summarily reject this episode's premise, development and it's conclusion.