I promise I'll get those older films that you're all surely clamoring for up soon. In the mean time, how about I review some more recent fare.



Palindromes
Review by Jon Waterman

***1/2

Young Aviva wants so desperately to have a baby. That’s all she’s desired ever since she was a child herself. Although not fully grown yet, she messes around with the neighbor kid and gets knocked up. Unfortunately, her parents force her to get it aborted. In order to spite them and fulfill her fantasies, she runs away. Along the way, she encounters many different people and some strange, life-altering situations.

Writer/director Todd Solondz once again proves himself as the master of bringing the unconventional to the masses. Like his previous efforts (“Welcome to the Dollhouse,” “Happiness,” and “Storytelling”), he’s able to handle potentially delicate, controversial or taboo subject matter with a strange air of cringing acceptance. (more...)


++++++++


Kung Fu Hustle
Review by Jon Waterman

***

In 1940s China, ruthless gangs rule the streets. The most vicious and powerful, the axe gang, is so cold-blooded that they celebrate their victories with an oft-practiced choreographed dance routine. The only place that’s safe from their tyranny is in the slums where everyone is too poor to be exploited and extorted. However that all changes after a chance encounter with a poser auditioning to be in the axe gang reveals some of the top martial arts masters living in the town. Now, the axe gang wants them dead so that they can continue their uncontested rule of the city.

Writer/director/star Stephen Chow (“Shaolin Soccer”) delivers one of the most offbeat films of the year. He gracefully combines and effectively blends comedy with what have to be called the best action scenes so far this year (and probably will remain on top for the rest of it) sprinkled lightly with drama. (more...)