"Dark City"
Dark City, released back in the 90's, heralded the arrival of Alex Proyas. It was widely acclaimed and has developed a cult following since its release. Well ... I didn't think it was that great. Sure, its visually unique, & features some really cool fx, but overall it was pretty average.
The biggest issue I had with the film is that its never equal to or greater than the sum of its parts. Individual scenes are great, but there's little holding the film together. The pace too, is rushed, jumping between scenes constantly, without really letting you get to know the characters. Speaking about characters, the performances are horribly marred by the editing. (wait till you watch Kiefer Sutherland in this - the guy is a ham factory!) The film also has a naivete about it, reminiscent of sci fi films form the 50's - when the Strangers (watch the film to find out more) 'tune' their reality, the director actually shows them doing it, as if you wouldn't believe it otherwise! The third act ends well though, with a spectacular conclusion - in some ways, this redeemed the film for me.
All in all, the film has a unique visual style and some interesting themes & ideas but little else that I could recommend.
"Best in Show"
Christopher Guest is a genius. No question. He makes a particular kind of film, but makes it extremely well.
This one's almost as good as his previous effort, 'Waiting for Guffman'. What, it lacks in the over the top quality of the latter, 'Best in Show' makes up in subtlety. This mocumentary, based on contestants at a dog show, in insightful, hilarious & touching all at the same time. Each of the key characters are memorable - stand outs being Micheal Hitchcock and Parker Posey's high strung and continuously squabbling couple. The film also has a free wheeling style, every scene seeming ad-libbed and improved. It's to the director's credit that he's able to keep context to the proceedings, while keeping it really entertaining. You have to watch this, and while you're at, why not get a Christopher Guest triple bill going, with 'This is Spinal Tap' and 'Waiting for Guffman'.
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