hidel_51

This series represents great science fiction. However, its strength is really in the twisting portrayal of technology, intellect, spiritualism and all that is humanity. It is an interesting premise recurring in science fiction, that once machines acquire intellect and rationalization, they begin to inherit feelings that are often at odds with programmed logic. They become 'human' in nature. Humanity - a complex mix of emotions that are revealed as individual strengths and frailties. Something we all can recognize and which most of us carry with us throughout our lives - with one overriding concern - survival. A great cast, solid acting, well-written scripts, sound dialogue, excellent sets and special effects - this series has it all. Simply terrific TV, whether science fiction or otherwise. To the naysayers who found the series to be pretentious and boring. I say - 'FRACK' you. And if you have any intellect at all, you would agree with a hearty 'SO SAY WE ALL'!

Caught 45 R.P.M. on the cable Aboriginal Television Network (ATN) the other night. Had never heard of it before but as it drew me into the story I was so impressed by the young actors portraying the main characters. Plus the supporting cast is terrific. If you're a little older (as I am), and were an awkward young teenager when rock'n roll (as broadcast through the radio airwaves) was in still it's infancy, then this movie will bring back a wave of nostalgia. The simplicity and poignancy in its delivery is outstanding. The characters as presented, behave and have dialogue that make them 'real people', so much so that in watching them you might believe you are vicariously being allowed to take part in their lives. I would whole-heartedly recommend this to any and everyone.

I rented this movie again, just recently - and I enjoyed it even more than my first viewing. I initially rated it a 9 but after taking it all in another time, I was motivated to adjust it to a 10 (perfect). I can't believe it's current user rating of 6 (it's so underrated). The cast is terrific, especially Sean Flanery in the lead role. Mary Steenburgen (Jessica), Lance Henriksen (the Sheriff) and Jeff Goldblum (Donald) all play their roles very well and it's well-directed. The music is moving, the photography is excellent, and there some very human, touching and spiritual scenes that will stay with you after the movie credits have rolled by. It raises questions about the nature of human existence, death, and what lies beyond, but don't get hung up these and the improbable events/concept that led to the 'creation' of Powder and his 'condition'. Focus on the characters' portrayal of human emotions (rejection/loneliness, acceptance/friendship, ignorance/anger & fear, understanding/trust & friendship) ... and it should move you. Some will call it hokey, but I found the sense of love, sadness, family and belonging surrounding the passage of Sheriff Barnum's wife (Emma) and his reconciliation with his estranged son (Steve) to be powerful stuff. You have to be a terrible cynic not to enjoy this movie - your loss.

A riveting portrayal of pathetic yet tragic "lost soul" who is impossibly isolated, deluded, and kicked adrift from the rigid constraints and safety of "normal" life (yet all the while yearning for some form of acceptance and normalcy). Theron is amazing in the lead role, and Ricci shines as the misfit lesbian. If you've never taken the time to be thankful for what you have, this movie will make you stop and realize it could be worse, a lot worse. The acting is gritty and totally believable. Theron alternately captures the fear, frustration, and utter helplessness of the down-and-out prostitute's situation - a dreamer, a loser, full of suppressed self-loathing and flash-point anger. The movie may be a little too sympathetic in it's portrayal of a killer, and manipulative in the use of some stinging (some would say stereotyped) social commentary, but it resounds with a sense of reality, truth, and even remorse. A tremendously powerful movie that should cause you to reflect - this is not "Pretty Woman".