writer_woman

Although I'm sure I'll be in the "minority" here, I found this film extremely unsatisfying. CGI abounds (money has obviously been spent) but the plot holes and under-developed characters left me flat. Also, where was the suspense? The denouement was predictable. In the end, the "look" of the film was the only thing that held my interest. Two out of five stars.

This film is as ambiguous as life itself and, for that reason, it does not provide a fascile, crowd-pleasing Hollywood ending. Are there flaws? Yes, and I have a few quibbles myself. But imperfections aside, Cast Away is a highly unappreciated film which I enjoyed more than anything else I've seen in several years. As for complaints about the "4 years later" break, what were the film-makers to do? Roll cameras daily, for close to a year, while Hanks shed over fifty pounds? Certain restrictions apply! All in all, Cast Away (a pun, by the way--the character is a castaway who has been Cast Away from his societal identity) is a moving and compelling piece of work which gets better with each successive viewing. Kudos to Tom Hanks, who gives an extraordinary performance, and to all involved.

The Pad is a touching story, set in the swinging sixties, of a sensitive young man whose psychological innocence is destroyed when he meets and makes a date with a vapid young woman who becomes interested in his playboy co-worker. The final scenes are heart-breaking and unforgettable. Somewhat dated, but recommended.