silly-7

About one year ago, in that strange hour when you are half-asleep and half awake, I envisioned something. I envisioned a movie so grand that it would change the face of the motion-picture industry forever. A movie that would combine lavish effects, a seasoned screenplay, and very important themes about good and evil- and seamlessly integrate these aspects into one coherent whole. A movie that would be transgenerational in its appeal, so that a 5 year old youngster could sit side by side with a 90 year old and be linked by a common bond. On May 17th, 1999, this vision of mine came to life. This vision was "The Phantom Menace".

Phantom Menace is the most interesting, thought provoking, and entertaining films ever to grace the screen. It's unfortunate that people can't enjoy it for what it's worth, instead of constantly comparing it to the original trilogy. As much as i like the original trilogy, this movie is definitely on a different level. The screenplay, special effects, acting, cinematography- these are all better in Phantom Menace than any of the originals. Furthermore, Lucas does a wonderful job of setting up what's to come in the future(i.e the rise of the empire and the downfall of Anakin). Every single scene in this movie has a definitive purpose, and only after a few viewings can a person decipher this. The plot works so seamlessly it is amazing.

I think people hate the movie because they are too stupid too understand it. In the first trilogy, Lucas got criticized for making his movies too simple. Now he has put together a wonderfully complex story, and yet now in ironic fashion the viewers want a simpler story. They don't have the attention span for a movie this complex, and they take out this anger by bashing this movie. I am sorry folks, but Lucas didn't make this movie for idiots. He made it for people who like to think, true fans who are willing to analyze films.

And for those people bashing Jar Jar, I think you are pathetic. It is clear Lucas made this character to appeal to young people, and he needed this because this plot was too complex for the average child(or even adult unfortunately) to understand.

George, if you are reading this, I want to thank you personally for creating such a thought-provoking, entertaining and imaginative film. I know that many people are ripping down your film, but don't worry(I don't think you are). 10 years from now people will look back at this film in awe, not only for its amazing special effects but for its masterful storytelling and thought-provoking ideas. I have seen this movie 7 times and loved it every time, and I plan to see it at least 3 more times. People love to tear successful people down because they are jealous. Well, you are truly a genius, in every sense of the word. I have an incredible amount of respect for you. Just keep sticking to your roots and everything will turn out fine.

I must admit I was quite impressed with Bob Rafelson's adaptation of the depression era novel, "The Postman Always Rings Twice". Jack Nicholson plays Frank, a vagabond who eventually falls in love with a sexy waitress named Cora,played by Jessica Lange, who reciprocates this love. However, there is one problem standing in the way: Cora is married, unhappily married, but married nonetheless.

Aside from an intriguing story, "The Postman Always Rings Twice" is a wonderfully put together film, as Rafelson does a splendid job delving into the characters and their relationships, as well as examining the problems associated with forbidden love. As a viewer, you truly feel the passion between Lange and Nicholson,(who both won academy award nominations), and you almost feel for their pain. In the 1930's women in America were at quite a different position than they are today. They were expected to stay with the husband no matter what the circumstances, as divorce was quite uncommon. Lange was very convincing as this trapped 30's woman who eventually broke free the only way she knew possible..

I definitely recommend "The Postman Always Rings Twice" for any fan of entertaining and thought-provoking movies. Although the character development is not quite as extensive as some of Rafelson's early work, particularly the 1971 classic "Five Easy Pieces", the movie combines an intriguing screenplay with superb acting to make its own statement.