Stardust (2007)
DIRECTOR: Matthew Vaughn
CAST: Charlie Cox, Claire Danes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Robert De Niro, Mark Strong, Jason Flemyng, Sienna Miller
REVIEW:
An adaptation of the acclaimed illustrated fantasy novel by Neil Gaiman and Charles Vess, Stardust isn’t the equal of, say, The Princess Bride, but it’s an entry in the fantasy genre that’s (mostly) appropriate for older children while also entertaining adults, and blends dashes of romance, adventure, comedy, and horror into an enjoyable confection.
Continue readingThe Mummy (1999)
DIRECTOR: Stephen Sommers
CAST: Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz, John Hannah, Arnold Vosloo, Oded Fehr, Kevin J. O’Connor, Erick Avari, Jonathan Hyde, Omid Djalili, Bernard Fox, Patricia Velasquez
REVIEW:
While some hyperbolic reviews comparing it to Raiders of the Lost Ark are overstating the matter, Stephen Sommers’ The Mummy is a lot of fun as long as one doesn’t go in expecting much serious horror (the movie is too campy and semi-comedic to ever get very scary). It’s not the most substantial experience—-nor is it trying to be—-but it’s an ideal big summer diversion, with a lot of action, comedy, big splashy special effects, and a dollop of romance.
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