MR. HOLLAND’S OPUS (Released to Theaters USA 1995)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.0|5.0 Starsìììì

Mr. Holland’s Opus—superbly done—shows, without preaching, that our real ‘opus’ becomes the lives we affect along the way when we put our heart into our work. This film, completely worth watching, becomes one of the best musically themed films we’ve seen for awhile. Outstanding work by actor Richard Dreyfuss.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

Glenn Holland (Richard Dreyfuss), a musical performer and composer, aspires to be a well-remembered musical composer; but finds those aspirations down-sized to a regular suburbia lifestyle while earning his living as a high school music teacher. The film follows his disappointments and temptations, endeavors to create meaning in an occupation not well appreciated by peers and superiors, and succeeds in weaving the small threads of a life that have a good impact over the span of a lifetime.

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director Stephen Herek for directing efforts. Thank you to Executive Producers Patrick Sheane Duncan and Scott Kroopf for making the film possible.  thank you to Script Writer Patrick Sheane Duncan. Cast include: Glenne Headly, William H. Macy, Terrence Howard, and Damon Whitaker.

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. The movie is thought provoking, easy on the mind, and drives a theme of how to live life well.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

101 DALMATIANS (Released to Theatrical USA 1996)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.9|5.0 Starsììì

101 Dalmatians is a little short in time length, but makes up for that in its Wow! factor. This movie is a great, live-action remake of the animated movie of the same name. The terrific acting of Glenn Close as Cruella De Vil makes this movie work beyond expectations. She creates an unforgettable character. Her henchmen, acted by Mark Williams and Hugh Laurie, are perfectly rendered. Watch for some of the best costuming of any film from 2009. Kudos to the Rosemary Burrows and Anthony Powell costuming department.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

Cruella De Vil (Glenn Close) desires the spotted fur from Dalmatian puppies to make clothing.

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director Stephen Herek for directing efforts. Thank you to Executive Producers Edward S. Feldman and Bill Ryan for making the film possible. Cast include: Jeff Daniels, Joely Richardson, Joan Plowright, Hugh Laurie, Mark Williams, John Shrapnel, and Alonzo Tim McInnerny.

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. The script by John Hughes is well-written and makes a good, solid foundation for Director Stephen Herek to perform the magic that makes this film one that can be watched over and over by the child and adult. It’s a good home library addition.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

THE THREE MUSKETEERS (Theatrical release USA 1993)

 

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 3.8|5.0 Starsììì 

The Three Musketeers—good concept—pits the brashness of youth against the experience of seasoned warriors to make a good watch but, unfortunately, is not ‘up to par’ with most Disney productions. Some scenes seem a little overdone while others are not realistic enough for this movie. The movie can be a bit ‘campy’, but also has its comical scenes and has a happy ending. Be aware that the film has some suggestive scenes. 

Film poster Courtesy of Google Images 

Storyline 

A young man desires to be a part of the three musketeers. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Stephen Herek for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Joe Roth and Roger Bimbaum for making rhe film possible. Cast includes: Charlie Sheen, Kiefer Sutherland, Chris O’Donnell, Oliver Platt, Tim Curry, and Rebecca De Mornay. 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Maybe. It‘s an okay watch, but seems weak and not one tailored for most Disney audiences. 

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers