haslup

When the credits began to roll at the end of the film, there was a pause and then my friend said to me, "I really don't get what the critics are complaining about...I really liked it." And I immediately agreed.

Although avid fans of the comic book will surely complain about the changes made, having never read the comic, I'm inclined not to care about that. Keanu Reeves was surprisingly tolerable and the supporting cast, particularly Rachel Weisz, was wonderful. The story, although taking some liberties with Christian mythology, was very compelling and surprisingly logical. I was particularly pleased with the portrayal of angels in this film. It was delightfully entertaining without being cheesy.

All in all, I would say this was one of the most enjoyable films I've seen in a long time.

I went to see this film at a film festival recently only because my gay guy friend wanted to see it in hopes of seeing some hot, naked Italians. However, the film proved to be surprisingly serious and not nearly as cheesy as anticipated. There was no full nudity (but plenty of cheesecake to look at for those who want it). I thought the story was really quite sweet though. It focused on the reunion of 30-year old Riki with his estranged brother. His brother learns that Riki is both gay and a famous porn star. Although he is initially horrified, he learns to look past it and love his brother despite his career. Its not nearly as cheesy as it sounds. The film is both funny and sad, addressing the humor inherent in the cheesy porno business as well as the loneliness experienced by this star who is lusted after by millions but loved by no one. I give it an 8 of 10 for being funny, sweet, sad and different.

This is a film with no morals, no justification for being. It is disgusting and worthless. Now, before you think that this review is coming from some super-religious or super-conservative, I feel I should state that I am a big fan of Kill Bill, Vols. 1 and 2 and all of Tarantino's other films as well as a number of films criticized for their graphic violence. However, where those films have complex characters with sympathetic motivations, Joe Christ's films feature characters who are nothing short of evil, totally devoid of all morality. One must wonder about the man who would produce such filth that it wholly without meaning or purpose. Don't waste your time. If you want something disgusting and morally questionable, watch Ichi the Killer. It, at least, is interesting.