boppinjohn

IMDb member since August 2001
    Lifetime Total
    1+
    IMDb Member
    22 years

Reviews

Red State
(2011)

No Substance
This film, to me, went nowhere, there was no real depth to any character, and although Michael Parks & John Goodman made the best out of their roles it was let down by a total lack of any substance.

It was difficult to decide whether it was trying to be an action movie, or a comedy. It failed on both counts.

The premise was a good one, but fell flat for me. I don't normally write bad reviews , most movies have some merit, but this one and the characters had zero substance. It was the equivalent of eating watery gravy, nothing to get excited about.

I've watched a lot of low budget & independent films and enjoy them, despite limitations, heck even Steven Seagal movies, but I'd give this one a miss unless you really have nothing else to do.

Stagecoach West
(1960)

Excellent Western series
I only caught this series comparatively recently on a satellite channel. I don't know if it was ever originally shown in the UK but I'd have been very young if it was, although it's surprising the number of series I do remember! It's a pretty much forgotten gem, like the equally almost forgotten "Johnny Ringo". The stories are entertaining and well done, with an interesting range of guest stars popping up. It stands up well against much longer lasting more familiar series of the time.

It was certainly worthy of a longer run. Well worth seeking out on the less popular, lower rated satellite/cable channels, the only ones this day & age likely to show anything like this.

Live It Up!
(1963)

Wonderful time capsule!
Forget the plot. Forget the acting (which isn't that bad). I finally found a remastered DVD of this film in excellent quality. I acquired the title track "Live it Up" on a 45 by Heinz, which made me want to see this movie. I love Joe Meek's music anyway, but to have clips of some of his stars (I don't care that they're miming) plus Gene Vincent!! well it makes this short film well worth having a look at.

It's short enough that you won't get bored if you're not really keen on the trivial amateurish story lines they had in these types of movies. The music interupts it regularly anyway.

Search out the DVD as the commentary is also worth listening to. A wonderful period piece, no doubt!! I gave it a 9 just because of its wonderful feel as well as the great music and the rarity of seeing any footage of these early 60's singers & groups.

Sit back & enjoy!!

Johnny Ringo
(1959)

A Forgotten Little Gem
I'd never seen this series until just recently, catching it accidentally on a satellite channel. Not even sure if it was originally shown in the UK, I can't find anyone who remembers it. A lot of the old half hour westerns could be somewhat corny and maybe weak, but this one has quite absorbing episodes and manages to pack a fair bit of interest into each one with very likable characters.

It's a pity it didn't last longer than its 38 episodes, and maybe gone on to longer ones, but perhaps that's what makes it zippy. If you're a fan of 1950's & 60's western series then definitely give this one a try. I haven't managed to catch every episode but the ones I've seen I've enjoyed. What it lacks in sophistication (there's only so much you can do in half an hour) it makes up for in action.

Very watchable!

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