clintswift

Several times now I have gotten into discussions with people regarding this film. The most common criticism that I hear is "how could you watch children killing children." I have to say that it is a fair criticism of the subject matter of the film but not of the film it self. This film is based on actual events that took place in the seventies in the slums of Rio. The film is brilliant at catching the desperation of some of the poorest people in the world. For many people in the US this kind of poverty coupled with violence is unimaginable and the shock can be quite powerfull. I applaud the filmmakers for artfully completing such a difficult task. The cinematography is magnificent. Alexandre Rodrigues beautifully does his part at portraying the difficulties that all teenagers face growing up (sex, carrer, frienship etc...) but with the extra challenge of having to deal with growing up with one of the most dangerous neiborhoods in the world. Over all a very good film.

If you want a new perspective on an old story this film is for you. I can see why so many devout christians were upset about this film because it really presents a Jesus that is threatnig to traditional beliefs. If you have read Kazantzakis' novel the intro outlines he true nature of this story. It deal primaraly with the idea of being both human and god and what kind of implications that might have had on Jesus as an individual. Scorsese shows us Jesus' personal stuggle to try and deny his importance as he wants to reced into the life of a normal person. At no time did Scorsese or Kazantzakis claim this story to be anything but fiction, however it does make you wonder about the psyche of "the christ."

I can see why most of America hasn't caught on yet. The comedy is thoroughly British, which means very dry!!! None the less one of the funniest shows out there right now. Basically it is just centered around an office filled with totally bizarre characters. An over confident, want to be funny boss an ex-army geek team leader and many more complicated characters. The whole show is filmed like a documentary and so you get constant glances at the camera and ridiculous displays of showing off. Ricky Gervais is a true clown and can say the most outrageous things with a straight face. I have seen both seasons and was really upset to learn that the series was over. NBC bought it out and is tearing it apart as I type no doubt. It didn't appeal to the American masses so I'm sure they will turn it into some mindless slapstick dribble. The Office is truely British, to take that away would destroy its charm. I just hope that NBC's version will spark interest in the original and motivate people to look into the British version (although I doubt it). If you are reading this I plead you to look into this show, it is one of a kind.