Cormega-2

Belle Epoque is simply that. A beautiful thing. Rarely does a movie manage to affect the viewer on so many levels, and in such a variety of ways. For those seeking comedy, this film certainly satisfies. Now, be forewarned, it is not the generic, brainless, slapstick, comedy that has penetrated into the subconscious of America. Moreover, it's humor is a throwback to simpler times. For a comparison, its comedy can be compared "Life is Beautiful", although not as obvious or abundant.

For those seeking romance, this film is also excellent. Its plot is a take on the old, "Farmer and His Daughters" story that we all heard when we were kids.

If you're in the mood for a feel-good movie for a change, don't hesitate to rent Belle Epoque. ****

Shogun Assassin is no longer available in the United States, which is very unfortunate indeed. I obtained a copy through a Canadian film distributor. It follows a man named Lone Wolf, the right hand man of an evil Shogun. When the Shogun feels that Lone Wolf has grown too powerful, he sends his ninja spies to kill him. They fail, and thus begins the saga of Lone Wolf and his toddler son. A must see if you can obtain a copy.

Los Perros de Dios, The Dogs of God, is a deeply symbolic, deeply allegorical film look at Mexican life. You get the feeling that the director tried his best to make this a serious film, but with so many outlandish visions junxtaposed with a somber plot, you can't help but laugh.

This film reminded me of Luis Bunuel's work especially "Un Chien Andalou","The Phantoms of Liberty", and "L'Age D'or". I'm not sure where you can obtain of copy of it, the only reason that I saw it was that it happened to be a late-night film on Univision, the spanish-language channel in the USA.