rupie

We know that when a movie is listed as "based on a true story," that story is polished up to make it as saleable as possible. No matter how closely (or not) this movie adheres to the" true story," it's enjoyable to watch on its own, as a heartwarming story. The similarity to "Seabiscuit" has been noted here, and it's true, but so what? It's nice to have a warm story with no sex, car crashes, foul language or shoot-em-ups. Ken Russel is one of my favorite actors and he does his usual yeoman work here. The standout is Dakota Fanning, who was 10 years old when she made the film; she is just wonderful, and I intend to see her work as she matured. It's a joy to watch this movie.

I am at a complete loss to explain this movie's rather mediocre user rating of 6.8. I just rewatched it and once again was impressed by its many qualities. First off, it is an excellent story, grounded in familial and fraternal conflict. Secondly the quality of the acting, which is excellent from everyone, especially Wahlberg, Phoenix and Duval. Thirdly the pacing, which drives the story forward without any lapses and keeps one involved. The only quibble - and it's a minor one - is the difficulty in accepting Wahlberg and Phoenix as brothers. The movie definitely deserves a higher rating than what it has received. Definitely worth watching.

This movie showed up on Turner Classics Movies and as I had never heard of it and it starred Maximillian Schell, I gave it a shot. First off the condition of the print was pretty poor, compared to many movies of the same vintage. Secondly, I am surprised at the relatively high user rating. To me, the jarring plot twist towards the end of the movie not only strains credibility, but is never provided with a convincingly understandable explanation. It just doesn't wash. And Schell's performance is completely over the top; he plays the character as arrogant, imperious, sarcastic and nasty. Whether this was his decision or the directors's I don't know, but it helped to ruin the flick for me.