reflections

Borat

This is probably one of the most controversial movies to come out in 2006. Sacha Baron Cohen disguises himself as a make believe reporter from Kazakhstan and tours the United States interviewing unsuspecting Americans - many of whom are now suing him in the great American tradition.

It is a funny movie. Clare and I were laughing for most of it. Borat's antics and his seemingly innocent gaffes are hilarious. He is sexist, racist, homophobic, and essentially politically incorrect in almost every sense. The reactions of his unsuspecting interviewees are often even funnier. Some of the highlights include:

1. The southern reverend's rapid escape when Borat invites a black prostitute to join their dinner party or his facial expression when Borat implies that his wife isn't attractive
2. The facial expression of the concierge at a high end hotel when Borat walks up and greets him with "whatup widit vanilla face"
3. The feminists' horror when Borat snickers at the thought that women and men are equal

All in all a funny movie, but a little disappointing nonetheless. The movie had great potential that wasn't realised. There were many cringe worthy moments and times when I simply couldn't look at the screen. I definitely wouldn't classify it as a must see, but it is good for a laugh if you are in the mood.

It is nice to see that travel agents are making the most of the movie. The photo was taken of the shop window of an agency in Broadway. Anyone tempted?

Munich

I missed this at the Cinema and Clare and I borrowed the DVD from Tung's vast collection. It is brilliant movie and if you haven't already seen it, I highly recommend it.

The movie explores the murder of Israeli athletes during the Munich Olympics in 1972 and the revenge exacted by Mossad on the attackers. Its a brave effort by Steven Spielberg who presents a human perspective to this never ending and brutal conflict. Being based on a true story, there certainly isn't a surprising twist at the end. But the movie fearlessly explores some of the deeper themes of the conflict and introduces the audiences to the more unknown battles being waged by both Israel and the Palestinians.

The movie is well directed and the script is well written. It kept me absorbed from start to finish. There is also some brilliant acting notably by the two Australian stars: Eric Bana and Geoffrey Rush.

Photo originally uploaded by imdb.com.

Tintin

When I was growing up, I used to be an avid reader of the adventures of Tintin. I think I used to have the full collection of his comic books, but I either gave them away or lost them during one of the many moves in my life. I have always been meaning to purchase the full set, but finding Tintin books in good condition is not an easy task.

Yesterday I found the complete set of Tintin adventures on DVD and simply had to buy it. The cartoon version was never as good as the books themselves, but I still couldn't resist the calling of my inner child. As a kid I used to love reading about the trials and tribulations of this brave young reporter and his trusty sidekick Snowy. I watched the first DVD this morning, I don't think my taste has changed much since childhood :-)

The Secret Life of Stinky

Clare and I were surprised to see this poster in a local shop window. It looks like someone has made a movie about Joshua's adventures and already sold 400 copies. We are trying to track the author down to claim royalties....

The Motorcycle Diaries

Decades after his death, Che Guevara continues to be remembered, feared, hated and admired around the world. Love him or hate him, his impact on the World and the American continent in particular cannot be disputed. This movie examines the epic journey through South America that undoubtedly contributed more than anything to his revolutionary personae.

Well written, directed and acted this movie provides viewers with an entertaining and thought provoking story which doubles as an education about the origins of some of the most important events of the 20th century. Events and a leader that continue to influence modern politics. The Motorcycle Diaries is a sincere movie that speaks directly to the viewers heart. The subtle humour and suspense deftly weaved into the story ensured that I felt both refreshed, educated and satisfied at the end of it.

Photo originally uploaded by rottentomatoes.com.