Gunner Palace (2005)
83%RT Audience Score:
Awards & Nominations: 1 nomination
Gunner Palace is a cinematic masterpiece that captures the essence of war without taking a political stance. Michael Tucker and Petra Epperlein’s documentary is a throwback to the cinema verite style of pioneering documentarians, and it is a powerful film that goes beyond the casualty statistics and minute-long news clips to provide a sense of what it must be like for the soldiers stationed in Iraq. The film captures the fear and outrage of those Iraqis unfortunate enough to fall into the hands of US forces, and every moment is fraught with the potential for violence. Tucker’s bravery in documenting the tedium of the place and the work, the banal dangers of an occupation where the enemy could be anyone, is commendable. However, one may occasionally feel the urge to ask him to be quiet. Overall, Gunner Palace is a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand the reality of war.
Gunner Palace is like a rollercoaster ride, but instead of loops and drops, it’s filled with the potential for violence at every turn. The documentary takes you on a journey through the eyes of U.S. soldiers stationed in Iraq, and it’s not for the faint of heart. Michael Tucker and Petra Epperlein do an excellent job of capturing the tedium and banal dangers of war, but you might find yourself wanting to tell Tucker to be quiet every once in a while. Overall, Gunner Palace is a powerful film that provides a glimpse into the lives of those who serve our country, and it’s definitely worth a watch.
Production Company(ies)
Warner Bros., Chenault Productions,
Distributor
Palm Pictures
Release Type
Theatrical
Filming Location(s)
Baghdad, Iraq
MPAA / Certificate
Rated PG-13 on appeal for strong language throughout, violent situations and some drug references
Year of Release
2004
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby Digital
-
Aspect ratio:1.85 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 25m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Mar 4, 2005 Original
Release Date (Streaming): Jun 28, 2005
Genre(s)
Documentary
Keyword(s)
Gunner Palace, documentary, Iraq War, soldiers, American troops, 2/3 Field Artillery unit, The Gunners, Baghdad, Uday Hussein, Saddam Hussein’s son, patrols, raids, suspicious packages, PG-13, some drug references, violent situations, strong language throughout, directed by Petra Epperlein, Michael Tucker, produced by Petra Epperlein, written by N/A, starring N/A, box office gross $607.5K, budget N/A, reviewed by David Ansen, Nell Minow, Peter Howell, Bill Muller, Terry Lawson, Roger Moore, David Walsh, Mark Halverson, Jason Gorber, Dennis Schwartz, Rory L Aronsky, Marty Mapes, genre: war, MPAA rating: PG-13, distributor: Palm Pictures, original language: English, original release date: March 4, 2005, streaming release date: June 28, 2005, runtime: 1h 25m, producer: Petra Epperlein, music by Robert Cimino, cinematography by Michael Tucker, film editing by Petra Epperlein
Worldwide gross: $607,844
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $958,866
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,607
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 104,566
US/Canada gross: $607,844
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $958,866
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,198
US/Canada opening weekend: $63,520
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $100,202
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,932
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Michael Tucker – Director
Petra Epperlein – Producer
Robert Cimino – Original Music
Michael Tucker – Cinematographer
Petra Epperlein – Film Editing
Director(s)
Petra Epperlein, Michael Tucker
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
Petra Epperlein
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
1 nomination
Academy Awards
All Critics (106) | Top Critics (39) | Fresh (90) | Rotten (16)
Gunner Palace isn’t a particularly violent movie…but every moment is fraught with the potential for violence.
March 13, 2018
David Ansen
Newsweek
TOP CRITIC
February 18, 2012 | Rating: A-
Nell Minow
Movie Mom
TOP CRITIC
Tucker takes it all in without taking a stand, though his sympathies — expressed through voiceover narration — clearly lie with the men and women in the field.
April 15, 2005 | Rating: 3.5/4
Peter Howell
Toronto Star
TOP CRITIC
You certainly can’t question Tucker’s bravery, but you may occasionally feel the urge to ask him to be quiet.
April 7, 2005 | Rating: 3/5
Bill Muller
Arizona Republic
TOP CRITIC
While Gunner Palace has the immediacy of street rap, it is actually a throwback to the cinema verite style of pioneering documentarians D.A. Pennebaker, Albert Maysles and Frederick Wiseman.
March 25, 2005 | Rating: 3/4
Terry Lawson
Detroit Free Press
TOP CRITIC
But they’re very good at documenting the tedium of the place and the work, the banal dangers of an occupation where the enemy could be anyone.
March 25, 2005 | Rating: 4/5
Roger Moore
Orlando Sentinel
TOP CRITIC
The film captures the fear and outrage of those Iraqis unfortunate enough to fall into the hands of US forces.
February 15, 2021
David Walsh
World Socialist Web Site
August 7, 2008 | Rating: 4/5
Mark Halverson
Sacramento News & Review
A powerful film, going beyond the casualty statistics and minute-long news clips to provide a sense of what it must be like for the guys and girls over there.
June 21, 2007 | Rating: B
Jason Gorber
Film Scouts
A rambling war documentary without a political agenda about U.S. soldiers of the 2/3 Field Artillery stationed in Iraq.
July 13, 2005 | Rating: B
Dennis Schwartz
Dennis Schwartz Movie Reviews
Michael Tucker and Petra Epperlein know that now is the time to make sure people know what the Iraqi War looks like and hopefully they will.
July 12, 2005 | Rating: 4/5
Rory L. Aronsky
Film Threat
A commendably apolitical visit to the soldiers in Iraq
July 8, 2005 | Rating: 3/4
Marty Mapes
Movie Habit…
Plot
American soldiers of the 2/3 Field Artillery, a group known as the “Gunners,” tell of their experiences in Baghdad during the Iraq War. Holed up in a bombed out pleasure palace built by Sadaam Hussein, the soldiers endured hostile situations some four months after President George W. Bush declared the end of major combat operations in the country.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Fresh Kernels doesn’t have anything goofy or funny to say about Gunner Palace, but they do mention that the film follows the lives of American troops in Iraq as they patrol the city and live in what used to be Uday Hussein’s palace.
Petra-Epperlein.jpg
83%
Team America: World Police (2004)
83%RT Audience Score: 80%
Awards & Nominations: 1 win & 11 nominations
Team America will either offend you or leave you in stitches. It’ll probably do both
Team America: World Police is a raunchy, action-packed comedy that is definitely not for kids. But if you’re an adult who loves Thunderbirds and Jerry Springer: The Opera, then this movie is right up your alley. Sure, some of the jokes fall flat and the all-marionette cast can be a bit distracting, but the darkness that seeps in with the characters and the story is surprisingly effective. Plus, Trey Parker and Matt Stone’s attacks on America’s political spectrum are utterly outrageous and delightfully non-PC. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the ride. Just don’t bring the kids.
Production Company(ies)
Distributor
Paramount Pictures
Release Type
Theatrical
Filming Location(s)
Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, USA
MPAA / Certificate
Rated R for graphic crude and sexual humor, violent images and strong language – all involving puppets
Year of Release
2004
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:DTS Dolby Digital SDDS
-
Aspect ratio:2.39 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 38m
-
Language(s):English, French, Klingon, Korean, Arabic
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Oct 15, 2004 Wide
Release Date (Streaming): May 17, 2005
Genre(s)
Comedy/Action
Keyword(s)
Team America: World Police, Comedy, Action, Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Pam Brady, R, Graphic, Crude & Sexual Humor, All Involving Puppets, Strong Language, Violent Images, Gary Johnston, Joe, Kim Jong Il, Hans Blix, Carson, Matt Damon, Drunk in Bar, Tim Robbins, Sean Penn, Michael Moore, Helen Hunt, Susan Sarandon, Chris, George Clooney, Danny Glover, Ethan Hawke, Kristen Miller, Lisa, Masasa Moyo, Sarah, Daran Norris, Spottswoode, Phil Hendrie, I.N.T.E.L.L.I.G.E.N.C.E., Chechnyan Terrorist, directed by Trey Parker, Matt Stone, produced by Trey Parker, Matt Stone, reviewed by Mark Kermode, Nell Minow, J.R Jones, Christy Lemire, Marc Savlov, Sara Michelle Fetters, Cory Woodroof, Richard Propes, Miles Fielder, John Powers, MPAA rating R, box office gross $32.8M, Dolby SRD, SDDS, Surround, DTS, Scope (2.35:1)
Worldwide gross: $50,826,898
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $80,178,741
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,131
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 8,743,592
US/Canada gross: $32,786,074
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $51,719,586
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,055
US/Canada opening weekend: $12,120,358
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $19,119,700
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 680
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $32,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $50,479,565
Production budget ranking: 791
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $27,183,246
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): $2,515,930
ROI to date (est.): 3%
ROI ranking: 1,381
Matt Stone – Chris, George Clooney, Danny Glover, Ethan Hawke, Additional Voices (Voice)
Kristen Miller – Lisa (Voice)
Masasa Moyo – Sarah (Voice)
Daran Norris – Spottswoode (Voice)
Phil Hendrie – I.N.T.E.L.L.I.G.E.N.C.E., Chechnyan Terrorist (Voice)
Director(s)
Trey Parker, Matt Stone
Writer(s)
Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Pam Brady
Producer(s)
Trey Parker, Matt Stone
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
1 win & 11 nominations
Academy Awards
All Critics (197) | Top Critics (46) | Fresh (151) | Rotten (46)
The whole thing plays like Thunderbirds Goes to Hell and will doubtless offend all those numskulls who complained about the BBC’s transmission of Jerry Springer: The Opera. For that alone, it gets my vote.
March 27, 2015
Mark Kermode
New Statesman
TOP CRITIC
Raunchy action comedy from South Park team isn’t for kids.
August 24, 2010 | Rating: 2/5
Nell Minow
Common Sense Media
TOP CRITIC
Juvenile in the worst sense: confused and frightened by the adult world, and begging to be protected.
October 22, 2004 | Rating: 2/4
J. R. Jones
Chicago Reader
TOP CRITIC
October 19, 2004 | Rating: A
Christy Lemire
Journal News (Westchester, NY)
TOP CRITIC
There are too many gags that fall flat and the strain of an all-marionette cast shows all too often.
October 19, 2004 | Rating: 2.5/5
Marc Savlov
Austin Chronicle
TOP CRITIC
Worse, it loses its edge early on, Stone and Parker not going far enough for the attacks to be anything other than purely prurient.
October 19, 2004 | Rating: 2.5/4
Sara Michelle Fetters
MovieFreak.com
TOP CRITIC
What’s surprising is some of its best material isn’t even humor – it’s the darkness that seeps in with the characters and the story.
June 25, 2022
Cory Woodroof
615 Film
Yet another unique but entertaining film from the world of Trey Parker and Matt Stone.
September 25, 2020 | Rating: 3.0/4.0
Richard Propes
TheIndependentCritic.com
Trey and Stone’s gleefully vicious, staggeringly non-PC attacks on America’s right, left and center makes Team America an utterly outrageous delight.
April 23, 2019 | Rating: 4/5
Miles Fielder
The List
When it comes to politics, the South Park boys mistake contempt for humor.
May 17, 2018
John Powers
L.A. Weekly
The jarhead action, intentionally crappy parody songs, mélange of terrorist gibberish and semi-sensible anatomical analogies for foreign policy all let “Team America” rowdily resurrect the Zucker Brothers’ spirit of peerless, puerile genre satire.
October 23, 2010 | Rating: 3.5/4
Nick Rogers
The Film Yap
Putting the fun back into misanthrope
July 22, 2009 | Rating: 77/100
Dan Jardine
Cinemania…
Plot
The North American counter-terrorism force Team America attacks a group of terrorists in Paris. Later, the leader of the organization, Spottswoode, invites the famous Broadway actor Gary Johnston to join his world police and work undercover in Cairo, infiltrating a terrorist organization in the hope they will disclose their plan of destroying the world. Team America destroy the cell of terrorists, but then the Panama Canal is attacked by the criminals as a payback. Gary feels responsible for the death of many innocents and leaves the counter-terrorism organization. When the leader of North Korea, Kim Jong Il, joins a group of pacifist actors and actresses with the intention of using weapons of massive destruction, Team America tries to avoid the destruction of the world.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
The film features the voices of Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the creators of South Park.
Trey-Parker.jpg
83%
The Incredibles (2004)
83%RT Audience Score: 75%
Awards & Nominations: Won 2 Oscars
67 wins & 56 nominations total
Bringing loads of wit and tons of fun to the animated superhero genre, The Incredibles easily lives up to its name
The Incredibles is like a superhero movie, but for the whole family. It’s got action, adventure, and a whole lot of heart. The characters are lovable, the animation is stunning, and the jokes are hilarious. It’s no wonder this movie has become a classic. Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, The Incredibles is sure to leave you feeling, well, incredible.
Production Company(ies)
Paramount Pictures, The Coppola Company, American Zoetrope
Distributor
Walt Disney Pictures
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Wide)
Filming Location(s)
Walt Disney Feature Animation – 500 S. Buena Vista Street, Burbank, California, USA
MPAA / Certificate
PG
Year of Release
2004
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby Digital EX
-
Aspect ratio:2.39 : 12.39 : 1 (CinemaScope)CinemaScope2.35 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 55m
-
Language(s):English, French
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Nov 5, 2004 Wide
Release Date (Streaming): Mar 15, 2005
Genre(s)
Comedy/Adventure
Keyword(s)
starring Craig T Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L Jackson, Jason Lee, Wallace Shawn, Sarah Vowell, directed by Brad Bird, written by Brad Bird, produced by John Lasseter, John Walker, comedy, adventure, PG, box office performance, $261.4M, reviewed by David Stratton, Nell Minow, J.R Jones, Colin Kennedy, Nick Schager, Andrew Sarris, Craig T Nelson as Bob Parr/Mr Incredible, Holly Hunter as Helen Parr/Elastigirl, Samuel L Jackson as Lucius Best/Frozone, Jason Lee as Syndrome, Wallace Shawn as Buddy Pine, Sarah Vowell as Violet Parr, Pixar, Walt Disney Pictures, action, violence, family, superhero, robot, government, island, animation, soundtrack, Michael Giacchino, Edna Mode, individuality, satire, modern society, identity
Worldwide gross: $631,607,053
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $996,351,544
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 96
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 108,653,385
US/Canada gross: $261,441,092
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $412,419,770
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 109
US/Canada opening weekend: $70,467,623
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $111,161,718
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 71
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $92,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $145,128,750
Production budget ranking: 229
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $78,151,832
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): $773,070,962
ROI to date (est.): 346%
ROI ranking: 398
Holly Hunter – Helen Parr, Elastigirl (Voice)
Samuel L. Jackson – Lucius Best, Frozone (Voice)
Jason Lee – Syndrome (Voice)
Wallace Shawn – Buddy Pine (Voice)
Sarah Vowell – Violet Parr (Voice)
Director(s)
Brad Bird
Writer(s)
Brad Bird
Producer(s)
John Lasseter, John Walker
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
Won 2 Oscars
67 wins & 56 nominations total
Academy Awards
Oscar Best Achievement in Sound Editing Winners, Oscar Best Animated Feature Film Winners, Oscar Nominees, Oscar Winners
All Critics (248) | Top Critics (57) | Fresh (241) | Rotten (7)
These are lovely characters, it’s a witty script, there’s lots of laughs.
July 29, 2015 | Rating: 4/5
David Stratton
At the Movies (Australia)
TOP CRITIC
Incredible and action-packed fun for the entire family.
December 28, 2010 | Rating: 5/5
Nell Minow
Common Sense Media
TOP CRITIC
The sleek computer animation is spellbinding as usual.
June 20, 2007
J. R. Jones
Chicago Reader
TOP CRITIC
Brad Bird strays from the Pixar formula but still delivers enough colour and thrills to keep the faithful happy.
June 25, 2005 | Rating: 4/5
Colin Kennedy
Empire Magazine
TOP CRITIC
The year’s foremost animation showstopper.
May 4, 2005 | Rating: A-
Nick Schager
Lessons of Darkness
TOP CRITIC
The often wry and pointed dialogue reminded me of the glory days of radio.
December 16, 2004
Andrew Sarris
Observer
TOP CRITIC
The Incredibles has a thoughtful consideration of adult relationships, a romanticism about the need for superheroes, and a caution against the decline of Self.
February 14, 2022 | Rating: 4/4
Brian Eggert
Deep Focus Review
The level of action, violence, and carnage in the film is spectacular, making this one of Pixar’s most mature productions.
September 30, 2020 | Rating: 10/10
Mike Massie
Gone With The Twins
Brad Bird’s incredibly entertaining love letter to superheroes and family, is one of Pixar’s finest accomplishments to date. [Full review in Spanish]
May 15, 2020 | Rating: 4.5/5
Fico Cangiano
CineXpress Podcast
Bird’s film was a CLASSIC then, it is a CLASSIC now and will always remain so. [Full Review in Spanish]
May 14, 2020
Sergio Benítez
Espinof
The Incredibles is a very sophisticated movie. A rip-roaring superhero thriller, it is also a celebration of family that doubles as a not-that-subtle denunciation of a society that tells excellence to stifle itself and enforce mediocrity…
February 28, 2020
Kathi Maio
The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction
The action scenes and overall story make this a winner with all ages. A classic in its own right, The Incredibles will be around for years to come.
January 14, 2020 | Rating: 4/4
Sarah Knight Adamson
Sarah’s Backstage Pass…
Plot
Bob Parr (A.K.A. Mr. Incredible), and his wife Helen (A.K.A. Elastigirl), are the world’s greatest famous crime-fighting superheroes in Metroville, always saving lives and battling evil on a daily basis. But 15 years later, they have been forced to adopt civilian identities and retreat to the suburbs where they have no choice but to retire as superheroes to live a “normal life” with their three children Violet, Dash and Jack-Jack, who were born with secret superpowers. Itching to get back into action, Bob gets his chance when a mysterious communication summons him to a remote island for a top-secret assignment. He soon discovers that it will take a super family effort to rescue the world from total destruction.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Edna Mode steals the show with her comedic genius in The Incredibles.
Brad-Bird.jpg
83%
A Very Long Engagement (2004)
83%RT Audience Score: 85%
Awards & Nominations: Nominated for 2 Oscars
17 wins & 35 nominations total
A well-crafted and visually arresting drama with a touch of whimsy
A Very Long Engagement is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get. Some critics loved it, some thought it was too much to handle. But let’s be real, anything with Audrey Tautou is worth watching. Plus, who doesn’t love a good mystery-quest? It’s like National Treasure, but with more romance and less Nicolas Cage. Overall, it’s a grand cinema experience that will leave you enchanted and maybe a little nauseous from all the candy.
Production Company(ies)
Mad As Birds G-B A S E Head Gear Films,
Distributor
Warner Bros. Pictures
Release Type
Theatrical
Filming Location(s)
Héaux de Bréhat, Côtes-d’Armor, France
MPAA / Certificate
Rated R for violence and sexuality
Year of Release
2005
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:DTS Dolby Digital SDDS
-
Aspect ratio:2.35 : 1
-
Runtime:2h 14m
-
Language(s):French, German, Corsican
-
Country of origin:France
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Nov 26, 2004 Wide
Release Date (Streaming): May 24, 2005
Genre(s)
Drama/War
Keyword(s)
starring Audrey Tautou, Gaspard Ulliel, Jean-Pierre Becker, Dominique Bettenfeld, Clovis Cornillac, Marion Cotillard, directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, written by Sébastien Japrisot, Jean-Pierre Jeunet, drama, war, romance, R rating, Warner Bros Pictures, box office performance, budget, reviewed by Kimberley Jones, Roger Moore, Rene Rodriguez, Tom Long, Terry Lawson, Jeff
Worldwide gross: $69,424,389
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $105,801,612
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 985
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 11,537,798
US/Canada gross: $6,524,389
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $9,943,060
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,617
US/Canada opening weekend: $101,749
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $155,064
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,770
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $56,600,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $86,257,457
Production budget ranking: 479
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $46,449,640
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): -$26,905,485
ROI to date (est.): -20%
ROI ranking: 1,501
Gaspard Ulliel – Manech
Jean-Pierre Becker – Esperanza
Dominique Bettenfeld – Ange Bassignano
Clovis Cornillac – Benoît Notre-Dame
Marion Cotillard – Tina Lombardi
Director(s)
Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Writer(s)
Sébastien Japrisot, Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Producer(s)
Angus Finney
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
Nominated for 2 Oscars
17 wins & 35 nominations total
Academy Awards
Oscar Nominees
All Critics (148) | Top Critics (43) | Fresh (116) | Rotten (32)
January 15, 2005 | Rating: 2.5/5
Kimberley Jones
Austin Chronicle
TOP CRITIC
Tautou, as always, makes this an enchanting trip.
December 22, 2004 | Rating: 5/5
Roger Moore
Orlando Sentinel
TOP CRITIC
There’s only so much candy the eye can consume before nausea sets in.
December 22, 2004 | Rating: 2.5/4
Rene Rodriguez
Miami Herald
TOP CRITIC
This is grand cinema.
December 22, 2004 | Rating: A
Tom Long
Detroit News
TOP CRITIC
The comic-dramatic divide of A Very Long Engagement is difficult to traverse, much less conquer. It’s simply hard to be charmed with all those corpses scattered about.
December 22, 2004 | Rating: 2/4
Terry Lawson
Detroit Free Press
TOP CRITIC
Merging heart-wrenching emotions with quirky humor and splicing bloody war footage with goofy comedy, the movie mixes vastly disparate elements into a surprisingly smooth blend.
December 21, 2004
Jeff Strickler
Minneapolis Star Tribune
TOP CRITIC
With detail crammed into literally every frame, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more imaginative film this year.
April 23, 2019 | Rating: 4/5
James Mottram
The List
As in any fable, there are spires, towers and moats, and it’s a spellbinding saga – a macabre dance choreographed by its romance’s throbbing heart. Mathilde and Manech’s love left its mark in many places, so why not the grungiest and war-torn?
November 22, 2010 | Rating: 3.5/4
Nick Rogers
The Film Yap
August 7, 2008 | Rating: 4/5
Mark Halverson
Sacramento News & Review
Filmmaker Jeunet applies his aestheticized approach (which worked well for Amelie) to a WWII melodrama to some mixed results.
July 30, 2007 | Rating: C+
Emanuel Levy
EmanuelLevy.Com
July 14, 2007 | Rating: 3.5/4
Joe Lozito
Big Picture Big Sound
It’s a romantic epic, an intense and gripping look at WWI, and a nifty little mystery-quest all rolled into one.
July 28, 2005
Scott Weinberg
DVD Clinic…
Plot
Five desperate French soldiers during The Battle of the Somme shoot themselves, either by accident or with purpose, in order to be invalided back home. Having been “caught” a court-martial convenes and determines punishment to be banishment to No Man’s Land with the objective of having the Germans finish them off. In the process of telling this tale each man’s life is briefly explored along with their next of kin as Methilde, fiancée to one of the men, tries to determine the circumstances of her lover’s death. This task is not made any easier for her due to a bout with polio as a child. Along the way she discovers the heights and depths of the human soul.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
The film stars Audrey Tautou, known for her role in the popular French film Amélie.
Jean-Pierre-Jeunet.jpg
83%
Sunshine (2000)
83%RT Audience Score: 81%
Awards & Nominations: Won 1 Oscar
73 wins & 111 nominations total
Sunshine is a film that defies categorization, blending elements of historical drama, family saga, and philosophical inquiry into a heady and intoxicating brew. Director István Szabó weaves a complex tapestry of characters and themes, exploring the tensions between duty and desire, tradition and progress, and the individual and the collective. At the center of it all is Ralph Fiennes, delivering a tour-de-force performance as three generations of a Hungarian Jewish family struggling to survive and thrive in the face of war, revolution, and personal tragedy. With its sumptuous visuals, haunting score, and richly layered script, Sunshine is a film that rewards repeated viewings and invites endless interpretation. It’s a rare gem that shines with intelligence, empathy, and humanity, and reminds us of the power of cinema to illuminate the darkest corners of the human experience.
Sunshine is a movie that will make you feel like you’re getting a history lesson, but in a good way. It’s got all the intelligence and empathy you could ask for, and it’s not afraid to tackle some weighty ideas. Plus, the shifting hues of humanity will leave you impressed and maybe even a little bit emotional. It’s like a warm hug from a really smart friend who knows how to make you think. So grab some popcorn and settle in for a treat that’s both gripping and beautiful, just like the music of the spheres.
Production Company(ies)
Jalem Productions,
Distributor
Paramount Pictures
Release Type
Theatrical
Filming Location(s)
Montauk, New York, USA
MPAA / Certificate
Rated R for language, some drug and sexual content
Year of Release
2004
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:DTS Dolby SDDS
-
Aspect ratio:1.85 : 1
-
Runtime:3h 0m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States, United Kingdom
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Sep 13, 1999 Original
Release Date (Streaming): May 8, 2001
Genre(s)
History/Drama
Keyword(s)
Worldwide gross: $74,036,715
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $116,791,912
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 949
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 12,736,304
US/Canada gross: $34,400,301
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $54,266,007
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,033
US/Canada opening weekend: $8,175,198
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $12,896,264
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 866
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $20,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $31,549,728
Production budget ranking: 1,128
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $16,989,529
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): $68,252,655
ROI to date (est.): 141%
ROI ranking: 796
Rosemary Harris – Valerie Sors
Rachel Weisz – Greta
Jennifer Ehle – Valerie Sonnenschein
Molly Parker – Hannah Wippler
Deborah Kara Unger – Major Car
Director(s)
István Szabó
Writer(s)
István Szabó, István Szabó, Israel Horovitz
Producer(s)
NA
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
Won 1 Oscar
73 wins & 111 nominations total
Academy Awards
All Critics (65) | Top Critics (17) | Fresh (48) | Rotten (17)
There’s no denying the rare ambition of a film with intelligence and empathy to burn: You go in expecting a history lesson and emerge impressed by the shifting hues of humanity.
January 18, 2018
Matt Wolf
Associated Press
TOP CRITIC
September 7, 2011 | Rating: B+
Lisa Schwarzbaum
Entertainment Weekly
TOP CRITIC
August 4, 2007 | Rating: 2.5/4
Steven Rea
Philadelphia Inquirer
TOP CRITIC
Well-intentioned but never entirely engaging …
April 4, 2007
Eddie Cockrell
Variety
TOP CRITIC
It’s an absorbing, weighty picture, which worries at still important ideas about duty and inheritance, and at how we may define ourselves against the tide of history.
June 24, 2006
Geoff Andrew
Time Out
TOP CRITIC
January 1, 2000 | Rating: 3/4
James Berardinelli
ReelViews
TOP CRITIC
What does it mean to live in a country where one finds oneself both at home and still a stranger? Szabó’s masterpiece brings us close to the heart of this enduring dilemma.
August 17, 2018
István Deák
The New York Review of Books
Much like her character holds together her family, Harris’s warm and robust performance holds together Sunshine.
January 7, 2010 | Rating: 3/4
Michael Dequina
TheMovieReport.com
Sunshine has done the impossible by reinventing the concept of “high stakes,” it’s a marvelous treat…gripping and beautiful, twining the music of the spheres with the reptilian brain inside us all.
August 16, 2007 | Rating: 4.5/5
Karina Montgomery
Cinerina
August 14, 2007 | Rating: 3/5
James Kendrick
Q Network Film Desk
August 11, 2007 | Rating: 3/4
Jules Brenner
Cinema Signals
August 4, 2007 | Rating: B
Daniel Kasman
d+kaz. intelligent movie reviews…
Plot
Much to his surprise, timid Joel Barish is shocked to discover that the love of his life, sparky Clementine, has had him erased from her memory. To pay her back in the same coin, poor Joel summons up the courage to undergo a painless but intricate medical procedure to do the same, utterly unaware that darkness is an essential part of the light. Now, as hurt and angry Joel’s ugly recollections of Clementine gradually fade away, giving way to a soulless black void, suddenly, he begins having second thoughts, toying with the idea of stopping the irreversible process. In the end, is ignorance really bliss?
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Ralph Fiennes plays three different characters in the film: Ignatz Sonnenschein, Adam Sors, and Ivan Sors.
István-Szabó.jpg
83%
Yossi & Jagger (2003)
83%RT Audience Score: 75%
Awards & Nominations: 9 wins & 1 nomination
A tersely told yet deeply felt romance
Yossi & Jagger is a film that proves love can bloom even in the most unexpected places, like the Israeli military. While some critics found it too lean or modest, I found it disarmingly tender and charming. Director Eytan Fox strips away anything that doesn’t present a dichotomy of conflict, leaving us with a searing and beautifully told story of two soldiers in love. The performances by Ohad Knoller and Yehuda Levi are so natural and sincere that you can’t help but root for them. It’s a love story that transcends politics and war, and it’s definitely worth an hour of your time. Plus, it’s a great reminder that love is love, no matter where you find it.
Production Company(ies)
Distributor
Strand Releasing
Release Type
Theatrical, Theatrical (Limited)
Filming Location(s)
MPAA / Certificate
Rated R for language and some sexual content
Year of Release
2002
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Stereo
-
Aspect ratio:1.37 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 7m
-
Language(s):Hebrew
-
Country of origin:Israel
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Oct 10, 2003 Original
Release Date (Streaming): Apr 13, 2004
Genre(s)
Drama
Keyword(s)
starring Yehuda Levi, Ohad Knoller, Assi Cohen, Aya Koren, Hani Furstenberg, Sharon Raginiano, directed by Eytan Fox, written by Eytan Fox, produced by Amir Harel, Gal Uchovsky, drama, R rating, Israeli Defense Force, homosexuality, romance, war, soldiers, Lebanese border, secret, bond, love, tension, conflict, dichotomy, natural, sincere, touching, fragility, death, ever-present possibility, lyrical, disarmingly tender, global unrest, charm, talented filmmaker, inept romance, amateurish, naturalistic, cheap, mediocre, fast pace, independent drama, bitter sweet ending
Worldwide gross: $351,707
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $583,328
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,703
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 63,613
US/Canada gross: $267,005
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $442,845
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,354
US/Canada opening weekend: $19,395
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $32,168
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,347
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Ohad Knoller – Yossi
Assi Cohen – Ophir
Aya Koren – Yaeli
Hani Furstenberg – Goldie
Sharon Raginiano – The Colonel
Director(s)
Eytan Fox
Writer(s)
NA
Producer(s)
Amir Harel, Gal Uchovsky
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
9 wins & 1 nomination
Academy Awards
All Critics (44) | Top Critics (20) | Fresh (38) | Rotten (6)
November 24, 2011 | Rating: 3/4
Wesley Morris
Boston Globe
TOP CRITIC
In the film’s spare running time, director Eytan Fox strips away almost anything that doesn’t present a dichotomy of conflict.
April 5, 2004 | Rating: 3/4
Eric Henderson
Slant Magazine
TOP CRITIC
It’s too lean to deserve marquee billing.
March 19, 2004 | Rating: 2/4
John Monaghan
Detroit Free Press
TOP CRITIC
A searing, tense and beautifully told film.
March 18, 2004 | Rating: 3/4
Howard Shapiro
Philadelphia Inquirer
TOP CRITIC
Levi and Knoller are so natural, so unconcerned with mugging for the camera, that what could have been a corny love story on paper is utterly sincere and touching on screen.
March 18, 2004 | Rating: 3/4
Allison Benedikt
Chicago Tribune
TOP CRITIC
If Yossi & Jagger is any indication, Mr. Fox has a bright future.
January 22, 2004 | Rating: B-
Charles Ealy
Dallas Morning News
TOP CRITIC
Featuring sincere performances and a stark, almost haunting, backdrop, the film avoids stereotypes and political posturing to capture the fragility of life when death is an ever-present possibility.
May 26, 2022
Dan Avery
Out Magazine
While it’s easy to forget that these characters stand at the crossroads of global unrest, Fox’s feature succeeds as a lyrical and disarmingly tender observation of love in war.
April 20, 2022
Shannon Kelley
The Advocate
Modest to a fault, this is no more than an anecodte about gay love within the Israeli military, but it has plenty of charm and establishes Ethan Fox as a talented filmmaker to watch.
October 21, 2006 | Rating: B+
Emanuel Levy
EmanuelLevy.Com
August 7, 2004 | Rating: D+
Daniel Kasman
d+kaz. intelligent movie reviews
introduces a number of very human characters that we grow to care about
April 14, 2004 | Rating: B
John A. Nesbit
Old School Reviews
Yossi & Jagger says a lot and is well worth an hour of your time, but you’ll walk away thinking it could have said more.
April 5, 2004 | Rating: 3.5/5
Don Willmott
Filmcritic.com…
Plot
Yossi is a Commander at an Israeli outpost near Lebanon. He is however involved in a secret, passionate love affair with his second in command (nicknamed Jagger). The two will often sneak off from the outpost to spend time together. A failed ambush during a full moon leaves Jagger mortally wounded and forces Yossi to finally express his love.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Fresh Kernels praises the “sincere performances” of Yehuda Levi and Ohad Knoller in their portrayal of the two soldiers in love.
Eytan-Fox.jpg
83%
Open Range (2003)
83%RT Audience Score: 84%
Awards & Nominations: 1 win & 5 nominations
Greatly benefiting from the tremendous chemistry between Kevin Costner and Robert Duvall, Open Range is a sturdy modern Western with classic roots
Open Range is like a cowboy version of The Avengers, but instead of superheroes, we have Kevin Costner and Robert Duvall as the ultimate duo. The movie has everything you could want in a Western: gunfights, cattle drives, and a little bit of romance. Plus, the climax is so muddy and chaotic that you’ll feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. It’s a classic tale of redemption and loyalty, and it’s definitely worth a watch. Yeehaw!
Production Company(ies)
Castle Rock Entertainment,
Distributor
Touchstone Pictures
Release Type
Theatrical
Filming Location(s)
Stoney Indian Reservation, Alberta, Canada
MPAA / Certificate
Rated R for violence
Year of Release
2003
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:DTS Dolby Digital SDDS
-
Aspect ratio:2.35 : 1
-
Runtime:2h 18m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Aug 15, 2003 Wide
Release Date (Streaming): Jun 4, 2006
Genre(s)
Western/Drama
Keyword(s)
starring Robert Duvall, Kevin Costner, Annette Bening, Michael Gambon, Michael Jeter, Diego Luna, Abraham Benrubi, James Russo, directed by Kevin Costner, written by Craig Storper, Lauran Paine, produced by David Valdes, Kevin Costner, Jake Eberts, Western, Drama, box office performance, budget, reviewed by Antonia Quirke, Nell Minow, Peter Rainer, Philip French, Nev Pierce, Jack Mathews, Debbie Lynn Elias, Nick Rogers, Brian Orndorf, Felix Vasquez Jr., Urban Cinefile Critics, Thomas Peyser, R rating, Touchstone Pictures, Boss Spearman, Charley Waite, Sue Barlow, Percy, Button, Denton Baxter, Poole, Mose, violent, gunfights, cattle drive, revenge, loyalty, redemption, classic roots, chemistry, modern Western, great performances, tender core, character development, shoot out, slow moving, bloody climax, frontier woman, ruthless cattle baron, relationship, believable
Worldwide gross: $68,296,293
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $110,699,532
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 969
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 12,071,923
US/Canada gross: $58,331,254
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $94,547,482
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 776
US/Canada opening weekend: $14,047,781
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $22,769,651
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 590
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $22,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $35,659,178
Production budget ranking: 1,047
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $19,202,468
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): $55,837,886
ROI to date (est.): 102%
ROI ranking: 932
Kevin Costner – Charley Waite
Annette Bening – Sue Barlow
Michael Gambon – Denton Baxter
Michael Jeter – Percy
Diego Luna – Button
Director(s)
Kevin Costner
Writer(s)
Craig Storper, Lauran Paine
Producer(s)
David Valdes, Kevin Costner, Jake Eberts
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
1 win & 5 nominations
Academy Awards
All Critics (184) | Top Critics (49) | Fresh (146) | Rotten (38)
Here is Costner, calm and careful, his skin these days only a little older with its new indentations and fine markings. And when he is like this on screen, he is perfect.
December 14, 2017
Antonia Quirke
London Evening Standard
TOP CRITIC
Some killing, but most violence is PG-13.
December 26, 2010 | Rating: 4/5
Nell Minow
Common Sense Media
TOP CRITIC
Just about everything in this movie has its antecedent: a little bit of Shane here, a chunk of High Noon there, and so on. And yet it’s all rather pleasing, in a regressive sort of way.
August 7, 2004
Peter Rainer
New York Magazine/Vulture
TOP CRITIC
This is a truly outstanding film, with great performances, particularly from Duvall.
April 9, 2004
Philip French
Guardian
TOP CRITIC
March 16, 2004 | Rating: 3/5
Nev Pierce
BBC.com
TOP CRITIC
A flawed but highly entertaining B Western blown up to John Ford scale.
August 21, 2003 | Rating: 3/4
Jack Mathews
New York Daily News
TOP CRITIC
Introspective. Retrospective. The Old West. The American Cowboy. A part of our heritage for which America has an enduring love.
November 7, 2019
Debbie Lynn Elias
Behind The Lens
The thunderous climax -one of the muddiest, bloodiest and most chaotic gunfights of the 2000s -makes it clear that Kevin Costner’s plaintive, patient, slightly overlong Western was only sitting for a spell to race toward the finish.
September 17, 2010 | Rating: 3.5/4
Nick Rogers
The Film Yap
Range is handed a stunning period scope by Costner’s directorial eye, while forming an unexpectedly tender core to help endear these character past their grizzled exterior.
December 17, 2009 | Rating: A
Brian Orndorf
Modamag.com
An unbelievable old-fashioned western…
April 29, 2009
Felix Vasquez Jr.
Cinema Crazed
Thoroughly enjoyable and involving, Kevin Costner’s Open Range is a beautifully made western about flawed heroes who believe in redemption, loyalty and respect.
October 18, 2008
Urban Cinefile Critics
Urban Cinefile
Something like…It’s a Wonderful Life, only rich in slaughter.
June 9, 2008
Thomas Peyser
Style Weekly (Richmond, VA)…
Plot
Boss Spearman (Robert Duvall), Charley Waite (Kevin Costner), Mose Harrison (Abraham Benrubi), and Button (Diego Luna) freegraze their cattle across the vast prairies of the West, sharing a friendship forged by a steadfast code of honor and living a life unencumbered by civilization. When their wayward herd forces them near the small town of Harmonville, the cowboys encounter the corrupt Sheriff Poole (James Russo) and kingpin rancher Denton Baxter (Sir Michael Gambon), who govern the territory through fear, tyranny, and violence. Boss and Charley find themselves inextricably drawn towards an inevitable showdown, as they are forced to defend the freedom and values of a lifestyle that is all too quickly vanishing. Amidst the turmoil, life suddenly takes an unexpected turn for the loner Charley when he meets the beautiful and warm spirited Sue Barlow (Annette Bening), a woman who embraces both his heart and his soul.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Fresh Kernels praises the chemistry between Kevin Costner and Robert Duvall in Open Range, calling it a “sturdy modern Western with classic roots.”
Kevin-Costner.jpg
83%
Chihwaseon (2003)
83%RT Audience Score: 77%
Awards & Nominations: 8 wins & 5 nominations
Chihwaseon is a film that is as much a work of art as the paintings of its subject, Jang Seung-up. Im Kwon-taek’s direction is masterful, capturing the essence of Seung-up’s genius without resorting to crude speculation. The cinematography by Jeon Il-seong is breathtaking, matching the beauty of Seung-up’s paintings while still maintaining a sense of realism. Choi Min-sik’s performance as Seung-up is nothing short of extraordinary, capturing the mercurial moods of the artist with ease. While some may find the film remote and soulless, it is a fascinating and moving study of an artist who conforms to western archetypes of the artist as rebel and hedonist. In short, Chihwaseon is a film that is drunk on the beauty of art and poetry, and it is a must-see for anyone who loves both.
Drunk on Women and Poetry is a South Korean film that tells the story of Jang Seung-up, a late 19th century painter. Critics have praised the film for its exquisite visual compositions and authentic portrayal of the artist’s genius. However, some have criticized the film for being too focused on the livelier and more spectacular parts of Seung-up’s life, neglecting the dull historical and biographical stretches. Despite this, the film remains an elegant and painterly masterpiece, with an extraordinary performance by the sturdy and goateed Choi Min-sik. So grab a glass of wine, get drunk on the beauty of this film, and let yourself be swept away by the soul of another.
Production Company(ies)
Art Matters Inc., BBC Television, Edelman Family Fund,
Distributor
Kino Pictures
Release Type
Filming Location(s)
South Korea
MPAA / Certificate
Unrated
Year of Release
2002
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby Digital
-
Aspect ratio:1.85 : 1
-
Runtime:1h 57m
-
Language(s):Korean, Japanese
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Feb 14, 2003 Wide
Release Date (Streaming): Jun 11, 2007
Genre(s)
Biography/Drama
Keyword(s)
starring Choi Min-sik, Ahn Sung-ki, Yoo Ho-jeong, Kim Yeo-jin, Jeong Tae-u, Choi Jong-Seong, directed by Im Kwon-taek, written by Kim Yeong-ok, Im Kwon-taek, biography, drama, box office gross $59.4K, Kino Pictures, Dolby Stereo, Dolby Digital, Dolby A, Surround, Dolby SR, Flat (1.85:1), MPAA rating, reviewed by Alexander Walker, Desson Thomson, Neil Smith, Jonathan Rosenbaum, Michael Wilmington, Geoffrey Macnab, Panos Kotzathanasis, Par Parekh, MaryAnn Johanson, Judith Egerton, Donald Munro, Nik Huggins, starring Choi Min-sik as Jang Seung-up, Ahn Sung-ki as Kim Byung-Moon, Yoo Ho-jeong as Mae-hyang, Kim Yeo-jin as Jin-jong, Jeong Tae-u, Choi Jong-Seong
Worldwide gross: $6,988,181
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $11,590,336
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,921
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 1,263,941
US/Canada gross: $64,029
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $106,196
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,657
US/Canada opening weekend: $8,196
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $13,594
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 2,626
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Ahn Sung-ki – Kim Byung-Moon
Yoo Ho-jeong – Mae-hyang
Kim Yeo-jin – Jin-jong
Jeong Tae-u –
Choi Jong-Seong – Self
Director(s)
Im Kwon-taek
Writer(s)
Kim Yeong-ok, Im Kwon-taek
Producer(s)
Lee Tae-won
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
8 wins & 5 nominations
Academy Awards
All Critics (42) | Top Critics (20) | Fresh (35) | Rotten (7)
This South Korean film is one of the few authentic artist biopics ever created for the screen. It doesn’t crudely guess at the source of the late 19th century painter Jang Seung-up’s genius. It simply exhibits it.
January 10, 2018
Alexander Walker
London Evening Standard
TOP CRITIC
It is quietly observant, with a detached eye for the telling moment, and the visual compositions are often exquisite.
June 20, 2003
Desson Thomson
Washington Post
TOP CRITIC
The problem is, painting isn’t a spectator sport, as the interminable scenes of Jang at work continually confirm.
June 6, 2003 | Rating: 2/5
Neil Smith
BBC.com
TOP CRITIC
[Chihwaseon] rushes through the life of its subject in nimble leaps and bounds, concentrating on the livelier and more spectacular parts and avoiding the dull historical and biographical stretches.
June 6, 2003 | Rating: 2/4
Jonathan Rosenbaum
Chicago Reader
TOP CRITIC
Another masterpiece from one of the world’s more neglected great directors, a master artist who here reveals the soul of another.
June 5, 2003 | Rating: 4/4
Michael Wilmington
Chicago Tribune
TOP CRITIC
A fascinating, consummately crafted and ultimately moving study of a man who conforms surprisingly closely to western archetypes of the artist as rebel and hedonist.
June 3, 2003
Geoffrey Macnab
Sight & Sound
TOP CRITIC
Im Kwon-taek’s narrative approach focuses on detail, regarding both the actual story and the overall visuals, with Jeon Il-seong’s cinematography matching the actual paintings of Seung-up in beauty, without neglecting realism
July 26, 2020
Panos Kotzathanasis
HanCinema
In spite of these few moments of wonder, and even the dense, moving thematic content, the film ultimately doesn’t leave a lasting taste.
May 15, 2007
Par Parekh
Film Journal International
[A]n elegant, painterly film…
August 8, 2004
MaryAnn Johanson
Flick Filosopher
The sturdy and goateed Choi Min-sik gives an extraordinary performance as the mercurial Ohwon whose moods fluctuate from sadness to rage, anguish, and depression.
June 25, 2004 | Rating: 3/4
Judith Egerton
Courier-Journal (Louisville, KY)
For all its beauty and artistic ambition, the film remained stubbornly remote and soulless to me.
January 9, 2004 | Rating: C
Donald Munro
Fresno Bee
November 6, 2003 | Rating: 7/10
Nik Huggins
Future Movies UK…
Plot
The struggles of an artist. Jang Seung-up (1843-1897), also called Owon, focusing on the years 1882 to 1897, when Korea was in political upheaval, caught between China and Japan, the conservative dynasty dying, and peasant revolt at hand. Jang, born poor, has genius; a merchant, Kim, becomes his patron, finding him a teacher. Jang must convince others that a commoner can have talent, then move beyond his ability to copy old masters and find his own style. He’s bedeviled by a temper and alcohol, arguments with patrons as he seeks commissions, and relationships with kisaeng, particularly Mae-hyang, that start and stop. It’s the life of a restless spirit producing great art.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
Choi Min-sik gives an extraordinary performance as the mercurial Jang Seung-Up.
Im-Kwon-taek.jpg
83%
About Schmidt (2002)
83%RT Audience Score: 74%
Awards & Nominations: Nominated for 2 Oscars
25 wins & 71 nominations total
In this funny, touching character study, Nicholson gives one of the best performances of his career
About Schmidt is a movie that will make you laugh, cry, and question your own life choices. Jack Nicholson delivers a heartfelt performance that will leave you feeling all the feels. But don’t let the PG-13 rating fool you, this movie is not for kids. It’s a character study that will make you reflect on your own life and wonder if you’re doing it right. So grab some tissues and get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions. And if you’re feeling down about your own life, just remember, at least you’re not Warren Schmidt.
Production Company(ies)
Universal Pictures, Amblin Entertainment,
Distributor
New Line Cinema
Release Type
Theatrical
Filming Location(s)
Pioneer Village – 138 E. Highway 6, Minden, Nebraska, USA
MPAA / Certificate
Rated R for some language and brief nudity
Year of Release
2003
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:DTS Dolby Digital SDDS
-
Aspect ratio:1.85 : 1
-
Runtime:2h 4m
-
Language(s):English
-
Country of origin:United States
-
Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Dec 20, 2002 Wide
Release Date (Streaming): Jun 3, 2003
Genre(s)
Comedy/Drama
Keyword(s)
starring Jack Nicholson, Hope Davis, Dermot Mulroney, Kathy Bates, Len Cariou, Howard Hesseman, June Squibb, directed by Alexander Payne, written by Alexander Payne, Jim Taylor, comedy, drama, box office performance, budget, reviewed by Nell Minow, Peter Rainer, Robert Denerstein, Stanley Kauffmann, Xan Brooks, Nev Pierce, Joanne Laurier, John Powers, Kevin Carr, Emanuel Levy, MPAA rating R, retirement, actuary, daughter’s wedding, loss of wife, character study, American life, self-discovery, humanized, extraordinary, Dolby SR, DTS, Dolby Stereo, Surround, SDDS, Dolby A, Dolby Digital, Flat (1.85:1), New Line Cinema, Harry Gittes, Michael Besman, produced by
Worldwide gross: $105,834,556
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): $171,544,242
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 778
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): 18,707,115
US/Canada gross: $65,016,287
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): $105,383,063
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): 714
US/Canada opening weekend: $282,367
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): $457,681
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): 1,431
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): $30,000,000
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): $48,626,152
Production budget ranking: 814
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): $26,185,183
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): $96,732,906
ROI to date (est.): 129%
ROI ranking: 827
Hope Davis – Jeannie Schmidt
Dermot Mulroney – Randall Hertzel
Kathy Bates – Roberta Hertzel
Len Cariou – Ray Nichols
Howard Hesseman – Larry
Alexander Payne – Director
Harry Gittes, Michael Besman – Producers
Alexander Payne, Jim Taylor – Writers
Director(s)
Alexander Payne
Writer(s)
Alexander Payne, Jim Taylor
Producer(s)
Harry Gittes, Michael Besman
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
Nominated for 2 Oscars
25 wins & 71 nominations total
Academy Awards
Oscar Nominees
All Critics (204) | Top Critics (50) | Fresh (175) | Rotten (29)
Heartfelt Nicholson, not for kids at all.
September 2, 2010 | Rating: 3/5
Nell Minow
Common Sense Media
TOP CRITIC
These filmmakers have a feeling for the isolation of blasted lives, but they also can’t resist putting them down.
January 16, 2003
Peter Rainer
New York Magazine/Vulture
TOP CRITIC
January 10, 2003 | Rating: B
Robert Denerstein
Denver Rocky Mountain News
TOP CRITIC
A poignant marker in the career of a major artist.
January 8, 2003
Stanley Kauffmann
The New Republic
TOP CRITIC
Ultimately this is a frustrating patchwork: an uneasy marriage of Louis Begley’s source novel (About Schmidt) and an old Payne screenplay.
January 7, 2003
Xan Brooks
Sight & Sound
TOP CRITIC
This is a startling, resonant, life-affirming movie — both deeply funny and deeply moving.
January 7, 2003 | Rating: 5/5
Nev Pierce
BBC.com
TOP CRITIC
The latest film by Alexander Payne (Election, Citizen Ruth) scrutinizes features of America’s social fabric with a relatively sharp eye.
March 5, 2021
Joanne Laurier
World Socialist Web Site
A character study that has the emotional richness of the great Italian and Eastern European films of the 1960s, in which humor and pathos rode up and down on the seesaw together.
May 17, 2018
John Powers
L.A. Weekly
[It] toys with convention, leading us down that happy ending path and then hopping off of it again. It’s refreshing, if not humorously frustrating.
January 10, 2016 | Rating: 4/5
Kevin Carr
Fat Guys at the Movies
Sharply observed, Alexander Payne’s poignant comedy is a character study of an ordinary American, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and in the process becomes humanized and extraordinary.
January 20, 2011 | Rating: A-
Emanuel Levy
EmanuelLevy.Com
About Schmidt is a touching, human story about a man who comes to the realisation that his life is nothing more than a failure.
July 6, 2010 | Rating: 3.5/5
Matthew Pejkovic
Matt’s Movie Reviews
“About Schmidt” is a hostility-provoking film for the same reason that American citizens have lost their civil rights. The picture endorses, nay lionizes, complacency, inaction and the privilege of the greedy to steal whatever they covet simply because th
April 15, 2009 | Rating: D
Cole Smithey
ColeSmithey.com…
Plot
Warren Schmidt (Jack Nicholson) has led a safe, predictable life working in the insurance industry in Omaha, Nebraska for many years, yet now faces retirement. At the same time, he is forced to take a hard look at his wife, his life, and his relationship with his estranged daughter. An often hilarious series of events follow as Schmidt embarks on an unpredictable RV journey to attend his daughter’s wedding in Denver, Colorado.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
No goofy or funny or odd comments were found in the Fresh Kernels database for About Schmidt.
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83%
Thirteen (2003)
83%RT Audience Score: 77%
Awards & Nominations: NA
An emotionally wrenching, not to mention terrifying, film about the perils of being a teenager
Thirteen is like a rollercoaster ride that you can’t get off of, even if you want to. The movie is a cautionary tale about the dangers of peer pressure and the lengths that teenagers will go to fit in. The performances are top-notch, especially Evan Rachel Wood, who steals the show with her scorching performance. Catherine Hardwicke’s direction is frenetic and raw, making the brutal realities of modern teenage life hit home. While the script may be a bit overexcited at times, the film’s genuine and gritty portrayal of mother and daughter is wholly from the heart. Overall, Thirteen is a sensational look at the flip side of the American dream that will blow you away.
Production Company(ies)
Paramount Pictures, Skydance Media, Jerry Bruckheimer Films,
Distributor
Fox, 20th Century Fox
Release Type
Filming Location(s)
MPAA / Certificate
TV-MA
Year of Release
2003
-
Color:Color
-
Sound mix:Dolby
-
Aspect ratio:NA
-
Runtime:1h 40m
-
Language(s):
-
Country of origin:United States
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Release date:Release Date (Theaters): Aug 20, 2003 Wide
Release Date (Streaming): Oct 12, 2004
Genre(s)
Drama
Keyword(s)
starring Holly Hunter, Evan Rachel Wood, Nikki Reed, Jeremy Sisto, Kip Pardue, Sarah Clarke, directed by Catherine Hardwicke, written by Nikki Reed, Catherine Hardwicke, drama, R rating, box office gross $4.6M, reviewed by Amy Taubin, Neil Norman, Nell Minow, Nick Schager, Stella Papamichael, Megan Lehmann, Tom Meek, Kaleem Aftab, Felix Vasquez Jr., Joe Lozito, Betsy Bozdech, Honor student, troubled home life, mother-daughter relationship, peer pressure, drugs, sexuality, pickpocketing, self-destructive behavior, rebellion, teenage angst, adolescence, bullying, conformity, immaturity, competition, friendship, parental intervention, emotional, terrifying, gritty, sensitive, haunting, scorching, star-making performance, poignant, cautionary tale, disturbing, hyperbolic, unlikeable protagonist, natural performances, intense emotion, credible exchanges, unpleasant watch, provocation, obnoxiousness, gross injustice, vulgar, idiotic characters
Worldwide gross: $10,128,960
Worldwide gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Worldwide tickets sold (est.): NA
US/Canada gross: $4,601,043
US/Canada gross (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada gross ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend:
US/Canada opening weekend (inflation-adjusted): NA
US/Canada opening weekend ranking (inflation-adjusted): NA
Budget and Earnings Details
Production budget (est.): NA
Production budget (inflation-adjusted): NA
Production budget ranking: NA
Marketing and distribution budget (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
Box office net earnings to date (inflation-adjusted est.): NA
ROI to date (est.): NA
ROI ranking: NA
Evan Rachel Wood – Tracy
Nikki Reed – Evie Zamora
Jeremy Sisto – Brady
Kip Pardue – Luke
Sarah Clarke – Birdie
Director(s)
Catherine Hardwicke
Writer(s)
Nikki Reed, Catherine Hardwicke
Producer(s)
Jeffrey Kusama-Hinte, Michael London
Film Festivals
Awards & Nominations
NA
Academy Awards
All Critics (155) | Top Critics (48) | Fresh (126) | Rotten (29)
The script is as overexcited as the girls themselves, and its affirmative ending is unearned.
April 10, 2018
Amy Taubin
Film Comment Magazine
TOP CRITIC
It is here that the performances pay emotional dividends. The sight of Hunter kissing her daughter’s self-inflicted scars as if trying to kiss away the psychological pain that raised them will haunt me for some time.
January 11, 2018
Neil Norman
London Evening Standard
TOP CRITIC
Explicit peer pressure story for older teens.
December 29, 2010 | Rating: 4/5
Nell Minow
Common Sense Media
TOP CRITIC
A rather basic tale about the perils of going along with the in-crowd and the extremes to which teenagers will act out for attention.
May 4, 2005 | Rating: B-
Nick Schager
Lessons of Darkness
TOP CRITIC
Hardwicke shows great instincts, using a frenetic documentary style to hammer home the brutal realities of modern teenage life, but rooting it in an unusually sensitive portrait of mother and daughter.
November 25, 2003 | Rating: 4/5
Stella Papamichael
BBC.com
TOP CRITIC
Hunter and Reed are excellent, but it’s the scarily talented 15-year-old Wood whose scorching, star-making performance drives Thirteen.
September 25, 2003 | Rating: 3.5/4
Megan Lehmann
New York Post
TOP CRITIC
Given the room for platitude and cliche, the film’s wholly genuine, gritty and from the heart.
October 3, 2020 | Rating: 3.5/4
Tom Meek
Cambridge Day
Thirteen tries too hard to shock… but it is nonetheless a sensational look at the flip side of the American dream.
April 17, 2019 | Rating: 4/5
Kaleem Aftab
The List
An excellent film with a great script, incredible acting, and a truly blunt cautionary tale…
April 29, 2009
Felix Vasquez Jr.
Cinema Crazed
July 14, 2007 | Rating: 3/4
Joe Lozito
Big Picture Big Sound
No matter how much you’ve heard about the raw pain and reality of Catherine Hardwicke’s debut drama Thirteen, it’s still going to blow you away.
October 29, 2006 | Rating: 4/4
Betsy Bozdech
DVDJournal.com
A horror tale about a subculture in which impressionable girls drift under group pressure into drugs, piercing, self-mutilation, anorexia and shoplifting
November 1, 2005 | Rating: A-
Emanuel Levy
EmanuelLevy.Com…
Plot
Thirteen Reasons Why, based on the best-selling books by Jay Asher, follows teenager Clay Jensen (Dylan Minnette) as he returns home from school to find a mysterious box with his name on it lying on his porch. Inside he discovers a group of cassette tapes recorded by Hannah Baker (Katherine Langford) -his classmate and crush-who tragically committed suicide two weeks earlier. On tape, Hannah unfolds an emotional audio diary, detailing the thirteen reasons why she decided to end her life. Through Hannah and Clay’s dual narratives, Thirteen Reasons Why weaves an intricate and heartrending story of confusion and desperation that will deeply affect viewers.
Trivia
Goofs / Tidbits
The film features a standout performance from Evan Rachel Wood as troubled teenager Tracy.
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