shiannedog

Gene Hackman gives a superb performance, a work of art well above expectations. The Academy must have been asleep at the wheel in their failure to nominate him for an Oscar or maybe his performance just didn't satisfy the culture's role playing appetite at the time. It most certainly does now, nearly 30 years later. That, I can tell you. Where the makers of this film came up short was in the casting of the role of Adam Hall. The performance of Chris O'Donnell while very genuine did not achieve to the level of the supporting cast. He seemed inadequate in the role, but then real life is rather boring compared to good acting. I just kept wishing that they had placed a better performer in his place. I was also impressed with the portrayal of Lee Cayhall by Faye Dunaway. This was a gripping and moving picture thanks to one of the greatest actors of our time. Gene Hackman will be remembered well. Thank you to the entire cast and crew for making this movie.

Message To My Daughter is a movie you will only find in the archives of movie making. A creative, thoughtful, and absorbing film with enough meaning to touch even the most disconnected soul. One can only wish that these performances were captured on better quality film and sound recordings. The acting was real and full of genuineness that anyone who lived through those years could relate to. The story is heart wrenching and sad but also carries with it a thread of hope for a happy ending which doesn't disappoint. The idea of a dying mother to leave recordings for her daughter is beautiful and touching. May we all be so thoughtful. 7.3/10.

This western is rather different in style while at the same time presenting a common theme. Robert Blake was superb as Willie Boy. He made the film worth watching. Truly a great performance. Apart from him I would give it a much lower rating. The camera loves Redford but other than his pretty looks, he adds little quality to the film. He can't seem to dialog more than a few words at a time. There is a very good supporting cast and the screen play makes it interesting. The music is also a perfect fit. If I had a do-over I would replace Redford with Steve McQueen or Charles Bronson and give the sheriff a bit more to say. 6.7/10.