Isley
Lawrence Public Library
Isley's Completed Shelf
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Play DirtyPlay Dirty, Unknown
Unknown - 2007Unknown, 2007
Isley's rating:
Added Sep 09, 2014
Star WarsStar Wars, DVD[episode VI] : Return of the Jedi
DVD - 2013DVD, 2013
Isley's rating:
Added Sep 09, 2014
Comment:
Howard Hawks once said a great movie is three good scenes and no bad ones–unfortunately, this installment has three good scenes (rescue of Hans from Jabba, the assault on the empire shield generator, and Luke’s confrontation with Vader) and no other ones (and it still somehow manages to feel disjointed). Still great fun, just a bit overlong for what it is.Howard Hawks once said a great movie is three good scenes and no bad ones–unfortunately, this installment has three good scenes (rescue of Hans from Jabba, the assault on the empire shield generator, and Luke’s confrontation with Vader) and no other…
Star WarsStar Wars, DVD[episode V] : the Empire Strikes Back
DVD - 2013DVD, 2013
Isley's rating:
Added Sep 09, 2014
Comment:
Compared to episode IV, the effects are much better, the story much tighter, and all in all this really is the series high point everyone says it is. Lots of great stuff, and the fact that they make a muppet one of the main characters and actually pull it off is really pretty impressive.Compared to episode IV, the effects are much better, the story much tighter, and all in all this really is the series high point everyone says it is. Lots of great stuff, and the fact that they make a muppet one of the main characters and actually…
Star WarsStar Wars, DVD[episode IV] : A New Hope
DVD - 2013DVD, 2013
Isley's rating:
Added Sep 09, 2014
Comment:
While the humor is a bit broader than I prefer, the effects a bit rusty and the dialogue rather cheesy, there is still no denying the sheer entertainment value of the whole thing. There is a real thrill to watching this first ever (as far as I know) combination of fantasy, western and science fiction–it’s easy to see how this single-handedly created a new film genre overnight.While the humor is a bit broader than I prefer, the effects a bit rusty and the dialogue rather cheesy, there is still no denying the sheer entertainment value of the whole thing. There is a real thrill to watching this first ever (as far as I…
Things to ComeThings to Come, Unknown
Unknown - 2001Unknown, 2001
Isley's rating:
Added Sep 09, 2014
Comment:
A real triumph of set design and special effects, this also has the distinction of being the first ever post-apocalyptic sci fi movie a half decade before Mad Max (not to mention first ever zombie movie as well). The dialog is overly expository, but otherwise the silliness mostly manages to be equaled by the sheer spectacle of the whole thing.A real triumph of set design and special effects, this also has the distinction of being the first ever post-apocalyptic sci fi movie a half decade before Mad Max (not to mention first ever zombie movie as well). The dialog is overly expository,…
La RoueLa Roue, DVD
DVD - 2008DVD, 2008
Isley's rating:
Added Sep 08, 2014
Comment:
It's amazing this downer of a movie is not more depressing, but I think this is largely due to the fact that it never plays the sorrows of its characters for simple pathos. I can't think of many other early silent films that were this far ahead of their time (though Birth of a Nation and Nosferatu come to mind): not only is Gance's use of setting unequivocally brilliant, his editing is the missing link between the work of Griffith and the Russian masters like Eisenstein and Pudovkin.It's amazing this downer of a movie is not more depressing, but I think this is largely due to the fact that it never plays the sorrows of its characters for simple pathos. I can't think of many other early silent films that were this far ahead of…
Bad Day at Black RockBad Day at Black Rock, Unknown
Unknown - 2005Unknown, 2005
Isley's rating:
Added Sep 08, 2014
Comment:
Great performances, great cinematography, and a decent job of creating plenty of claustrophobic tension were the high points of this well made film. Personally however, the movie was a little too close for comfort to that genre of “bad town” liberal westerns that always rub me the wrong way with their self-righteous messages.Great performances, great cinematography, and a decent job of creating plenty of claustrophobic tension were the high points of this well made film. Personally however, the movie was a little too close for comfort to that genre of “bad town”…
La rondeLa ronde, Unknown
Unknown - 2008 | FrenchUnknown, 2008. Language: French
Isley's rating:
Added Sep 08, 2014
Comment:
A well mounted and unique film about couplings in 19th century Paris, and, like all of Ophul's work, it has some of the most fluid camerawork one will ever see. Though, while the whole thing is brimming with invention, I’m not convinced it really has all that much to say at the end of the day.A well mounted and unique film about couplings in 19th century Paris, and, like all of Ophul's work, it has some of the most fluid camerawork one will ever see. Though, while the whole thing is brimming with invention, I’m not convinced it really…
The leopardThe leopard, DVD
DVD - 2004 | ItalianDVD, 2004. Language: Italian
Isley's rating:
Added Sep 08, 2014
Comment:
This is undoubtedly a masterpiece, but this kind of historical epic stuff really struggles to hold my attention no matter how well it is made. Still, there is no denying the brilliance of the performances (Lancaster especially), the set design, the direction, and Claudia Cardinale.This is undoubtedly a masterpiece, but this kind of historical epic stuff really struggles to hold my attention no matter how well it is made. Still, there is no denying the brilliance of the performances (Lancaster especially), the set design, the…
Souls for SaleSouls for Sale, DVD
DVD - 2009DVD, 2009
Isley's rating:
Added Sep 08, 2014
Comment:
Possessing more than a mere historical interest (even though the shots of Chaplin and Stroheim at work are great) this is actually pretty entertaining too. There is no great thematic or technical prowess on display, merely solid, unpretentious filmmaking that makes for an immensely watchable film that never feels like merely a vehicle for its celebrity cameos.Possessing more than a mere historical interest (even though the shots of Chaplin and Stroheim at work are great) this is actually pretty entertaining too. There is no great thematic or technical prowess on display, merely solid, unpretentious…
The firemen's ballThe firemen's ball, Unknown
Unknown - 2002 | CzechUnknown, 2002. Language: Czech
Isley's rating:
Added Sep 08, 2014
Comment:
A frantic, tightly constructed masterpiece; this is never less than completely engrossing and hilarious. And if you really must analyze it as a political commentary I think it is best not to get bogged down in the details, and rather, marvel at the brilliant portrayal of how attempts at imposing order on a chaotic world can oftentimes be as futile as herding cats.A frantic, tightly constructed masterpiece; this is never less than completely engrossing and hilarious. And if you really must analyze it as a political commentary I think it is best not to get bogged down in the details, and rather, marvel at the…
Louisiana StoryLouisiana Story, DVD
DVD - 2003DVD, 2003
Isley's rating:
Added Sep 08, 2014
Comment:
Flaherty has always walked a fine line between documentary and fiction and here, in his last film, he at least calls it what it is: a fictional documentary. Magnificent photography, the refreshing lack of a message about the encroachment of industry, and the insightful glimpse into a child’s world all make this one of his best films.Flaherty has always walked a fine line between documentary and fiction and here, in his last film, he at least calls it what it is: a fictional documentary. Magnificent photography, the refreshing lack of a message about the encroachment of…
The Good FairyThe Good Fairy, Unknown
Unknown - 2002Unknown, 2002
Isley's rating:
Added Aug 12, 2014
Comment:
Quite a cute movie helped by appealing performances from the leads and a fairly witty Preston Sturges script. Not the best work from either Wyler or Sturges, but as modern fairy tales go it does a pretty good job.
Shadow of A DoubtShadow of A Doubt, DVD
DVD - 2000DVD, 2000
Isley's rating:
Added Aug 12, 2014
Comment:
This unassuming film is really quite creepy as you slowly learn what lurks beneath the surface of some people. The psychology of the relationship between uncle Charlie and his niece Charlie takes center stage and proves as mesmerizing as Hitchcock’s effortless direction.This unassuming film is really quite creepy as you slowly learn what lurks beneath the surface of some people. The psychology of the relationship between uncle Charlie and his niece Charlie takes center stage and proves as mesmerizing as…
The Lady From ShanghaiThe Lady From Shanghai, DVD
DVD - 2000DVD, 2000
Isley's rating:
Added Aug 12, 2014
Comment:
This very strange Orson Welles film is not quite a masterpiece, but still has plenty of things to recommend it. Several fine set pieces (the courtroom and funhouse scenes being my favorites), a storyline full of bizarre characters, and plenty of twists and turns all make sure you never get bored.This very strange Orson Welles film is not quite a masterpiece, but still has plenty of things to recommend it. Several fine set pieces (the courtroom and funhouse scenes being my favorites), a storyline full of bizarre characters, and plenty of…
Lon Chaney collectionLon Chaney collection, DVD
DVD - 2003DVD, 2003
Isley's rating:
Added Aug 12, 2014
Comment:
LAUGH CLOWN LAUGH (1928):
Despite the creepy premise (Lon Chaney falls in love with his foundling “daughter” when she grows up), this is a pretty great silent film. The central irony of a sad clown might be obvious, but Chaney’s performance actually makes it quite powerful.
ACE OF HEARTS (1921):
Minor Lon Chaney silent film that follows a secret organization of humanitarian assassins. The implausible plot and bland costar opposite Chaney (who was great as usual despite his silly hair) bring this one down a few notches.LAUGH CLOWN LAUGH (1928):
Despite the creepy premise (Lon Chaney falls in love with his foundling “daughter” when she grows up), this is a pretty great silent film. The central irony of a sad clown might be obvious, but Chaney’s performance…
CamilleCamille, Unknown
Unknown - 2005Unknown, 2005
Isley's rating:
Added Aug 12, 2014
Comment:
1936 VERSION:
Cukor’s direction is as drolly sparkling as ever in this adaptation of Camille that adds (when compared to the silent version) much appreciated layers of complexity to the Marguerite character. Garbo was made for a role like this with her tragically haunted soul never more visible through her facade of beauty and nonchalance.
1921 VERSION:
Not a bad film, especially considering how relatively early in the silent era it was made, there still isn’t a lot that stands out about it. Its biggest problems are that there doesn't seem to be much reason for Armand to like Maguerite, and that the death bed scenes at the end occupy far too much of the movie.1936 VERSION:
Cukor’s direction is as drolly sparkling as ever in this adaptation of Camille that adds (when compared to the silent version) much appreciated layers of complexity to the Marguerite character. Garbo was made for a role like this…
Touch of EvilTouch of Evil, Unknown
Unknown - 2008Unknown, 2008
Isley's rating:
Added Aug 12, 2014
Comment:
A bizarre nightmare of a noir film full of Welles' usual unbridled creativity (not to mention a monumental performance from the man himself). Watching the grotesque menagerie of characters leering through the shadows really makes you realize how influential this film must have been to someone like David Lynch.A bizarre nightmare of a noir film full of Welles' usual unbridled creativity (not to mention a monumental performance from the man himself). Watching the grotesque menagerie of characters leering through the shadows really makes you realize how…
Orphans of the StormOrphans of the Storm, DVD
DVD - 2002DVD, 2002
Isley's rating:
Added Aug 12, 2014
Comment:
Though one might be tempted to call this “behind the times” when compared to such early 1920’s masterpieces as Nosferatu, that is really more due to the occasional wince-worthy moment–the film as a whole is pretty great. The set design alone is worth the price of admission while the trademark Griffith crosscutting is as thrilling as always, especially in the hilariously over the top final race to save the heroine.Though one might be tempted to call this “behind the times” when compared to such early 1920’s masterpieces as Nosferatu, that is really more due to the occasional wince-worthy moment–the film as a whole is pretty great. The set design alone is…
Les enfants du paradisLes enfants du paradis, DVDChildren of paradise
DVD - 2002 | FrenchDVD, 2002. Language: French
Isley's rating:
Added Jul 08, 2014
Comment:
Completely fantastic film that is genuinely heartwrenching without once descending into melodrama--and never once makes you feel like you are watching a 3+ hour period piece about a French mime. To watch this is to be reminded of what a real movie is capable.Completely fantastic film that is genuinely heartwrenching without once descending into melodrama--and never once makes you feel like you are watching a 3+ hour period piece about a French mime. To watch this is to be reminded of what a real movie…
SabotageSabotage, Unknown
Unknown - 2008Unknown, 2008
Isley's rating:
Added Jul 08, 2014
Comment:
Not as much non-stop excitement as The 39 Steps, but still a fine movie with great set pieces and some genuine surprises in the narrative. I just wish those early British movies had better sound tracks--the dialog was pretty muddy.
The Lost WeekendThe Lost Weekend, Unknown
Unknown - 2000Unknown, 2000
Isley's rating:
Added Jul 08, 2014
Comment:
Wilder doesn’t make bad movies and while this was no exception, the “social conscience” elements and implausible ending are enough to turn me off of it. I mostly have issues with the general heavy-handedness of its depiction of alcoholism–which I realize isn’t entirely fair as there really weren’t any portraits of alcoholism before this so it probably had to be “laid on a bit thick” to get the message across (which is part of my problem with “social conscience films” in the first place).Wilder doesn’t make bad movies and while this was no exception, the “social conscience” elements and implausible ending are enough to turn me off of it. I mostly have issues with the general heavy-handedness of its depiction of alcoholism–which I…
Inland EmpireInland Empire, DVD
DVD - 2007DVD, 2007
Isley's rating:
Added Jul 08, 2014
Comment:
A three hour nightmare, Lynch’s dream logic has never been more clear while his narrative has never been more incomprehensible. Trying to figure out the plot isn’t the point though, and the fact that the film has stayed with me so strongly since watching it has led me to suspect that there actually is something to it after all.A three hour nightmare, Lynch’s dream logic has never been more clear while his narrative has never been more incomprehensible. Trying to figure out the plot isn’t the point though, and the fact that the film has stayed with me so strongly since…
The VisitorThe Visitor, Unknown
Unknown - 2008Unknown, 2008
Isley's rating:
Added Jul 08, 2014
Comment:
Though there is a bit more drama and the slight reek of a “social conscience film” in Thomas McCarthy’s follow up to The Station Agent, it shares many of the previous movie's strengths (specifically, the understated commentary on human interaction) as well. Not many directors can make a film like this (alternately heart-warming and heart wrenching) that holds my interest, so McCarthy must be doing something right.Though there is a bit more drama and the slight reek of a “social conscience film” in Thomas McCarthy’s follow up to The Station Agent, it shares many of the previous movie's strengths (specifically, the understated commentary on human interaction)…
Inglourious BasterdsInglourious Basterds, DVD
DVD - 2009DVD, 2009
Isley's rating:
Added Jul 08, 2014
Comment:
Though it feels a 2 hour movie in a 3 hour body, the interminable scenes of setup before each violent denouement are at least quite well done. Even if it wasn’t the tightest film it was at least thankfully less self-indulgent than Kill Bill (despite having its fair share of film geek “homages”/references) and the dialog was a bit less gratingly self-aware this time as well.Though it feels a 2 hour movie in a 3 hour body, the interminable scenes of setup before each violent denouement are at least quite well done. Even if it wasn’t the tightest film it was at least thankfully less self-indulgent than Kill Bill…
Comment: