asterisk-893-146033 Reviews (18)

Rebel Moon - Part One: A Child of Fire (2023)

Battle Beyond the Stars (1980) for Z generatuon.

[3/10 · 28 December 2023]

The sad thing about SF movies is that they are settled mostly in infinity of space, yet the topics they can deal are very finite. That's the reason why old fans of this genre, now in a very advanced age, are in a desperate need to get some good SF movie, and yet, that's beyond hope. All stories already told, followed by a litany of endless franchises, remakes, spinoffs, rip-offs etc. This movie is no exception of that rule. If you are a believer of the old rule that original is always better than a copy go and watch a movie from a title of this comment. Otherwise, continue to watch this genre meltdown.

True Detective: Now Am Found (2019) Season 3, Episode 8

Still the season 1 is unmatched

[8/10 · 25 February 2019]

Few things I don't get it (plot holes?). Why Lucy needs to be hidden? From whom, when her primary and secondary family are all ruined? Wouldn't be more wise she just pop up to media and police and get all attentions + few millions of dollars in compensation, specially when her kidnaper kills herself? Those powerful guys who terminate further investigation on child abduction and peadophilia in first season-where is connection now, when we got a hint in previous episode? So much promising 7 episodes , yet in 8th it all ends up in fairytale.

Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey (2014)

CGI cover-up for massive storytelling blunder

[6/10 · 11 March 2014]

Beside at least one historical inaccuracy, namely that Copernicus discover heliocentrism (instead Aristarchus of Samos in 3. c. BC, as told btw in original Cosmos series), this very first episode doesn't offer you anything which wasn't already shown in any other universe related documentary in last, say, 15 years. For a start, imaginary trip around Solar System + galaxies and obvious repetition of original Sagan "cosmic calendar". I can bet that makers of this hype will continue with massive cgi explosions of a stars, dramatic music fitful for some conspiracy theory documentaries and some other hollywoodian charms in this scientific morass. I really wonder now do producers watch original Cosmos series which Sagan do with minimal CGI and wonderful Vangelis music, and with firm scientific fact instead of adrenalin pumping effort to make us all over-hyped. Only nice thing I can add was Tyson personal memories on Sagan, which reminds me on my personal recollection on reading his book Cosmos back there in late 80. As far as I can remember, this incite my lust for astronomy. Considering more than a year introduction, this was quite a sluggish work.

Odysseus (2013– )

Why they have use a best piece of world literature as basis for this

[5/10 · 5 August 2013]

After watching all 12 episodes, I am still puzzled about main question: Why this series is called Odysseus in the first place at all? I really give my best to love this series because I so much love Homers work. I enjoy translating into Serbian and English Franco Rossi "L, Odissea", I enjoy watching Franco Piavoli "Nostos", I liked Konchalovsky "Odyssey", and even found sympathy for Camerini "Ulysses". They all were at least "Homeric". But this series from very first second plays on totally different level. First we are supposedly thrown in time of Trojan war, but instead late bronze age, we are in very first title introduced at iron age-8th century BC (sic). Then plot follows situation on Ithaca prior to Odysseus arrival on a manner that nothing of it is described in Homer. When Odysseus finally arrives there is not a hint of a man we found in Odyssey. No wits, no wisdom, no patience, no cleverness and above everything-no love. Only one selfish deluded paranoid lunatic who until last episode running amok killing everyone he suspect for treason. Homer gives his best to show a man who give up everything to reunite with his wife and son or basically, to return home. Notorious is Homers episode when he rejects immortality offered by Calypso on everlasting paradise island of Ogygya. But alas, this is also pervertly turn upside down in this series. Here, Odysseus start to persecute Penelope on behalf of false statement as soon as he enters bed chamber. After that, he suspect his own son is plotting against him and eventually plans preemptive strike on Telemachus. What we see is wretched family and large circle of people where everybody loves wrong person. There use to be, now lost, epic called "Telemachy" which deals with Odysseus and his family from the point where Homers Odyssey stops, till his death. Only basic plot is known today and even that offers brilliant opportunity for director to at least show that part of Greek myths for very first time. But no, even here we see again totally independent approach where Odysseus collide with Menelaus (although in Homer he is one of his best friends), Homer as some douche teenage goes around blinded in stupidly executed battle and you almost can hear him screaming: where is my eyesight dude? And Telemachus is some sort of confused student who get pis*ed (literally) and eventually ascent on throne just to proclaim Trojan slave girl for a queen (even when his mother is still alive and well). There is already some 5 days after I watched last episode, and honestly, I am giving my best to forget everything in this series. I hardly believe that I'll watch it ever again in my life. But I believe I will never stop to question very first question I have made: why have they called this series an "Odysseus", when they would do a favor to cinematography if they have just use some neutral names.

Helen of Troy (2005 TV Movie)

neoliberal history, or how I have stop worrying, and loved feminism

[2/10 · 4 July 2013]

As amateur historian, anyone can said to me that I am not authority on this, but nevertheless, I'll make a comment on this "movie". I have watched many documentaries & movies on Homer and Trojan war, and I have also watch many of Bettany Huges documentaries about general history, and all I can say about her view on history is that she is for history what Hellen of Troy was for Trojans. Since IMDb demands more lines, I will try to explain. Not a single one documentary she made (and Helen of Troy is no exception) didn't go without her pseudo-feminist BS. According to her, history is not linear progress of mankind (with many backward steps), but actually sporadic pop up of some "extrodinary" woman, around whom whole world (read men, God, Universe & everything else) dance like a puppets. Helen of Troy is one among them. Thus we got documentary in which "...beyond that, Helen is bigger even than a Homer". C,mon woman, you must be kidding. Even in this time of total erosion of values, going that far, and called yourself a historian... I can go on and on. Myceaneans and goddesses. Pudahepa of Hettites. Documentaries about Minoans or Spartans just add bitterness to final conclusion. Minoans who practice human sacrifice & cannibalism (even children) are advanced society cos "women have most prominent roll and they worship goddesses" (not gods). Spartans (remember the guys who thrown babies into abyss on smallest suspect that they can grow as weak) are also interesting, cos in their society woman was equal (in precisely what? Killing? Poetry?). We are lucky that history don't know any Astec queen, otherwise Bettany would make them look as peaceful loving nation. At least, this documentary was called more appropriate: not Myceaneans, not Trojans, but (only) Helen of Troy. On the other hand, full title is "In search of the real Helen of Troy". But this wasn't a search but merely promotion and certainly wasn't "real" Helen but more like real Bettany. History is not wishful thinking, but its blind and strait fact, the fact which Bettany failed to understand. So much about Hellen of Troy, and so much about Betany of History.

Sidewalls (2011)

same crap everywhere

[7/10 · 9 June 2013]

Its maybe strange to title the comment on this way, but this beautiful movie made me exactly that impression. Watching this movie from second grade European country was enlightening thing to do. It show me that on a different continent on different hemisphere on planet Earth, but in a same time, people live with a very same problems as I and my countryman do. Everyone become more and more isolated, people get estranged, while we more and more zip ourselves in our concrete beehives. And a exit from that darkness is simple. We need more light. Not of those artificial but those natural, God given, Sun light. There was a lot symbolic in act of braking a hole in a wall in one movie segment. Best recommendations.

Nostos: The Return (1989)

Masterpiece

[8/10 · 26 May 2013]

Although I doubted that ever again I will watch Odyssey on artistic scale comparable with Franco Rossi 1968 version, this another Italian version brings very pleasant surprise. And although before mentioned version is still considered the best ever, this one presents radically different approach. Its more inner Odyssey which tries to present only some of brief moments from Homer story with psychological dilemma of main character. Its not spectacle nor literal presentation of Homers work, and its certainly not one of the peplums. This is visual poetry and its highly recommended to every one who loves seventh art.Its sad its still not yet much known.

Taken 2 (2012)

Very good action movie

[7/10 · 14 October 2012]

Don't be fooled by those negative comments, cos they are mainly from Muslims (Albanians and Turks), who enjoy to see themselves as good as a man can be. On a contrary, this movie, beside fun side, is also a accurate insight how albanian mafia works, their medieval laws and falls honor. Most of negative comments here are like: we don wear burkas (yea, right), and our police don't take a bribe (no, they are taking bakshish). Now, as I'v said, this is good action movie, just like first part so go to cinema and enjoy it. At least its not on a liberal line of political correctness, action is not overwhelming, not too much, not to small (or slow). I hope there will be a third sequel and Liam will take a roll.

Cudo (1972 TV Movie)

Not so bad not so good as it can be

[7/10 · 18 January 2012]

This is one of very rare movies based on Serbian epic poetry (which is shame for oldest cinematography in the Balkans), and thus share some similarities with far superior and by my opinion best Serbian & Croatian movie ever-Banovic Strahinja. In its roots its a short story about individual heroism of a man who alone fight against local bully after no one else dares. Fabula is set in late middle ages, probably 14-15 century, and movie is set at old fortress of Kotor, although in movie place is not named and in original epic song its actually Greek city of Thessaloniki. Sadly, this movie deserves to be known more among Serbs and broader public. It is also pity it isn't developed enough, it seams it was grossly underfunded and thus poorly executed.

Valley of the Wolves: Palestine (2011)

Horrible agitprop

[1/10 · 24 December 2011]

What pile of trash this movie is. The title is entirely misplaced- it should be named something like: jihadist paradise. Tipicaly for Muslim view on history or realty, there are some group of peaceful loving Muslims (this time its Palestinians), attacked and tortured by evil non Muslims (this time its a Jews). But hey, there is also Allah factor, so he sends justice through Turkish super Rambo who kill Jewish soldiers almost looking at them. With one gun (self refilling) we see a new holocaust taking place, one bullet fits two and Jewish army dyeing on a rate greater than those of Russians at Stalingrad. But 'good' will prevail, Allah will be pleased and all that from director from the country who refuse to admit Armenian genocide and who turn once largest Christian city into Muslim China.

Mercenaries (2011)

incredible...

[10/10 · 22 December 2011]

Language-0. Acting-0. Story-0. Where to start. ....

Army overthrown government on Balkans smashing the gates on which are emblem of Poland. Olodan Cracovitch? Best part among many best parts is American chic killing female Serbian specialist firing from AK-47 for the very first time in a life (I like to shoot from that weapon, and believe me, I would be glad that I could be accurate as half as she was). What ever I think personally about England and its SAS, I would never humiliate them showing them on this manner.

In the end, I give 10 stars for this incredible trash, not because its a worst action movie ever that I watched (it is!), but because I am Serb and simply wish to see any serbophobic movie to be good as this one. This movie is for action the same as 'plan 9 from outer space' for SF.

The Tree of Life (2011)

Beautiful

[31 October 2011]

First of all, this is deeply religious and spiritual movie. Second, in order to understand it, first you need to read Biblical Book of Job, specially God end speech to ancient prophet (chapters 38-42). I don't understand FAQ negative answer on question is this movie based on a book. They say no, I say yes, and as mentioned, its a Book of Job (and Malick honestly pinpoint to that direction in opening scene quoting from Job). I was always mesmerized by that story and interestingly enough, with all screenings and countless Biblical movies no one ever attempted to screen this piece of world literature, till now. And Malick do this fantastically. Set it in modern time, this movie is eternal (as original old testament book) in their eternal quest for answer on one simple question: Why good people suffer? (Or why there is suffering in the world, or why evil exist, or what is meaning of life/existence, or is there a God/Creator, or is there comfort for injustice...) And finally, if you are a lover of speed big budget action movies then Don't look this film. I order to understanding you must be quiet, humiliate yourself and put your hart and mind at full throttle. Than you can enjoy this masterpiece. Otherwise, don't waste your time.

Time of Violence (1988)

Very, very good historical classic

[9/10 · 7 March 2011]

As a Serb, I always wonder why my country never made any movie about islamisation of Balkans through 14-20 century. Then I stumble on this Bulgarian epic. For anyone who want to explore darkest moments from history of Bulgarians, Serbs, Greeks, Armenians, Assyrians & other nonmuslim nations under Turkish government, this is a must see film. But the best thing in this movie is solution which he offers. You begin to understand it in last quarter of movie when things begins to unravel. And at least for me, priest in this movie is one of the best clerics I ever watch. I strongly recommend it to everyone except to those stubborn (crypto)jihadist, who may get sick from it (which can be actually good reason for them to watch), and who think that Turkish occupation is second best thing in world history.

The Dervish (2001)

Good film

[6/10 · 5 March 2011]

This Turkish movie is good adaptation of novel "Dervish and death" of prominent Serbian Muslim writer (not Bosnian) Mesha Selimovic. Its deeply thinking movie, but it falls behind comparing 1974 Serbian adaptation (there is even mini series from 1972 but I didn't watch). Problem for me I didn't have proper English (not to mention Serbian) translation, so I have to use online translation from Spanish, but it gave me anyway ability to follow the plot. It would be nice that some Turk translate this movie for English speaking public. Basically, this is a story of bad things happening to good man. Question is how people react in that situation, and main character, Nurudin, at the end remains faithful to his faith & goodness. Although it make him rarity, its also an example. Anyway, its very worth of seeing.

Banovic Strahinja (1981)

Masterpiece

[10/10 · 18 February 2011]

By my opinion best Serbian movie ever, although it was directed by Croat. You will hardly find movie with such powerful message of love, repent & forgiveness, that so authentically exploit famous Biblical story of women accused for adultery, whom Jesus forgive, like this movie is. For me it is most Christian, most spiritual & most moving movie from Balkans in 100 years of film production here (this year marks that beginnings). Strahinjas short, laconic & proverbial sayings, match some Biblical prophet, his courage some Achean warlord & his humble & just life some version of Robin Hood.Knight & hero in its full meaning. Banovic Strahinja (pron. Banouwitch Straheenya), is minor Lord from small castle of Banjska (modern south Serbia and north Kosovo). After Turkish pillage, he decide to find & save his wife, although even his wife family considers that effort unworthy, and his wife despicable (it was believed that if she was honest she would commit suicide which actually happened many times during Turkish invasion in all Balkans).But as hero says to her father:"If you want from me to bury my wife alive, I cant do that". Without help, without all odds, he goes alone on enemy. Now there is a good lesson from (women) psychology, when she succumbs to Turk, and begin to show affection on him. Her love for Strahinja doesn't failed, but instead one parallel love emerges. After final "clash of the titans", she accept cruel punishment (blinding, still less cruel than stoning in Islam), and prays God to give her strenght to endure that punishment. For this she is probably central and most positive figure in this movie, unobscured by Banovic greatness. Yet, in the end, seeing her honest regret,Banovich forgives her and accept her again as wife. In climatic moment,when bishop says to him:If You are not afraid of men, at least be afraid of God", Ban answers: Of what I should be afraid, when I have already endure all hell, and now, after all, her sin is more dear to me than your holiness. Old Serbian epic poem about this story end with words:There is so few heroes, like Banovic Strahinja was. P.S. Movie ends with epilogue: During centuries in harsh slavery, people didn't forget Strahinjas "chojstvo". It should be noted that in Serbian language is unique word, which cannot be translated: "chojstvo", meaning defending others from themselves and that is considered even more noble than "junastvo" aka heroism (defending yourself from others). P.S.S. Russians correctly understand message of this movie and thus translate his title as: law of love.

Ulrih Celjski i Vladislav Hunjadi (1911)

First Serbian movie

[9/10 · 12 February 2011]

Movie is about 13 min. long w/o non original titles & more likely it was practice for more ambitious movie about Duke Karadzordze made few weeks or months later.. The movie is based on real historical events in Belgrade in the summer of 1456. just after important Christian victory over Muslims. BTW, that event some says use Tolkin in his sagas as stage for siege of Minas Tirith. But after battle, due to many corpses, plague broke that killed many Christian leaders. Struggle for succession between Hungarian nobility begins and that's where this film starts. Movie is worthy cos of scenography and fact that it was filmed on same location where real events took place (Belgrade fortress), and I don't know but that easily can be first or among the first historical movies that exploit such feature. Since this is first Serbian and generally first Balkan feature film, it scores several first in local filmography. It is made from 14 all different scenes, 2 of them have double exposure which was favorite SFX in that era for ghost effects. It also have first panning, goof, comical and even horror scene (killing of Vladislav Hunyadi). I recommend it to any movie fan, specially those inclined to historical movies. Far before Petersen Troy, Braveheart, Ben Hur, Spartacus, Cleopatra etc, this is how that genre begins.

Eneide (1971– )

The Franco Rossi legacy

[9/10 · 14 January 2011]

I must admire Rossi faithful depiction of this antique tale. Only 3 years after he accomplish his original masterpiece Odyssey, Franco Rossi made film version of greatest Latin epic which is as far as I know only version of Virgil opus (there is one peplum Avenger, but dealing only with second part of book). This series is a bit deficient to reach glory & authenticity of his previous work (L'Odissea),but on another hand Virgil also cant match Homer (no one can). And still it vividly depict cruel destiny of defeated Trojans & their bitter struggle to survive & find new homeland. Just like his previous masterwork, this series magically transfer atmosphere of that period of late bronze age. Giulio Brogi proves himself worthy of character he played as wise & steadfast leader of doomed nation who grasp to save what can be saved. The opening scenes of raging sea wouldn't mean anything, if that Rossi isn't behind his artistic wish to portray raging forces of destiny which sometimes cast mankind on islands of unknown as shipwrecked sailors.Series also depicts famous love story of Dido & Enea.Destruction of Troy, not filmed in Odyssey, is depicted here in all his fire & cruelty. Whole scenography is usual for Rossi (or Cacoyanis, or Pasolini): slow, natural, proverbial. Music perfectly fits fabulae. I strongly suggest to all admirers of ancient literacy to watch this series.

Odissea (1968)

Masterpiece - Cinematography at its prime

[10/10 · 6 January 2011]

The Odyssey as a book is a masterpiece of world literature by itself. Sadly enough, every movie version of Homers epic, hardly make any impression on me, and from comments below I can see I'm not the only one.But seeing this version was entirely different experience. I don't know why, but no movie ever awake in me such sense for longing, nostalgic, a feel for time that past by, like this series. I was delighted to find Italian subs for deaf persons & translate it to my native Serbian.Latter, on my vacation on Kefalonia & Ithaca, I'v got desire to translate to English, and partly as a homage to Bekim Fehmiu who commit a suicide at that time in Belgrade. With only few minor diversions from Homer, F. Rossi made this series as best adaptation of any classical work, as by my opinion.Omittion of Scylla & Charibdes was probably due to budget constraints. Also, displacing the episode with Lestrygonians into openings of Odysseus story (& reducing Odysseus fleet to one ship), he cunningly enable himself easier & cheaper (but equally effective) performance.In places where he change Homer (ex.suitors decide to string bow day after failed competition), he does so artistically, that I have impression that even Homer would congratulate him. With obviously only two constructed ships (one large & one small-that of Telemachus), he accurately depicted on of most famous sea voyages in history.Unique depiction of ships, cities, Trojan horse or Odysseus bow just adds to astonishment. Dialogues are special thing in this series:natural, proverbial, romantic & never boring.Actors plays in such manner, that I cant remember anyone who deserves any critic. This series also affect me to look on another works of Franco Rossi. Thus I watch Eneid (1971), which is mostly deficient comparing to his previous work (ie Odissea), but have nice description of destruction of Troy & still its only full film version of Vergil epic.My recommendations.