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Big-Bad-Barry
Reviews
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Why Is This Film So Popular?
I re-watched this film 25 years after my first viewing chiefly to the look of horror on friends faces when I told them I didn't enjoy it.
Sure, from the perspective of a 15 year old, it was a little light on violence, nudity and car chases. I was also cajoled in to watching it by an English teacher. These could be two reasons for my negative reminiscence of the film.
Whilst I was able to appreciate the storyline more as a fully grown adult, and appreciate the performance of Robin Williams, I was still unable to understand why everyone I know thinks that this is one of their greatest films.
It's a good film. But I wouldn't rave about it.
Once Upon a Time in Northern Ireland (2023)
An Outstanding Look Back At My Childhood
I didn't grow up in Northern Ireland, although the news throughout my childhood was dominated by events in Ulster.
This series is one of the best 'oral history' programmes I've seen. It's like a mini 'World at War' for the 70s, 80s and 90s in Northern Ireland. It features primary accounts from those involved in 'The Troubles' on all sides with the benefit of hindsight.
I watched it with my kids who enthralled. They were horrified at the atrocities that took place in a corner of the United Kingdom just a generation ago. It provided a hard hitting context the the lessons they're taught at school which will hopefully prevent this from happening again.
Wait for Me (2023)
The Best Film I've Seen This Year
If you like plot twists, gritty British thrillers and a hard hitting storyline you'll love 'Wait For Me'.
Set in Northern England, the movie tells the story of an unlikely heroine trapped in unfortunate circumstances through no fault of her own. The plot takes her through a series of remarkable events involving some great characters played by a varied cast.
It's rare for a film to tackle real world issues head on and highlight some of the unsavory aspects of modern British life. This film did it really well.
Well worth a watch if you like a thriller that will keep you in suspense and make you think about your life.