Classics: A Review of The Rescuers By Lauren Ennis

 Following the death of Walt Disney in 1966 Walt Disney Studios entered what is commonly referred to as its 'dark age'. Without its founder's influence the studio's output fell into a state of decay with each release seemingly featuring weaker stories and more lackluster animation than the last. Fortunately, even in the dark days the studio still saw some bright spots, one of which is 1977's animated adventure The Rescuers. Blending fresh storytelling with classic animation the often overlooked film holds its own even when compared to the studio's more celebrated works. For viewing that is guaranteed to charm the young and young at heart alike answer the call to adventure with The Rescuers.

The story begins in the Louisiana bayou with a young girl sending a message in a bottle. The film then shifts to New York City as the Rescue Aid Society, a global charity organization entirely made up of mice, hold their annual meeting. During the meeting it is revealed that the society has been alerted to the bottle and read its message begging for help. The society discusses how the message was written by a kidnapped orphan girl named Penny and agree to send out a team to rescue her. The society's most popular member, glamorous socialite Bianca, is unsurprisingly their first choice for the assignment. To their surprise, however, she chooses anxious, unassuming, janitor Bernard rather than an actual society member to accompany her. The unlikely pair then set off of an adventure the likes of which animation was made for.

The Rescuers abandons Disney's tried and true formula and is all the better for it. Rather than telling an epic fairytale the film instead relates the story of a group of underdogs trying to help others. Through its straight-forward approach the film ensures that the story remains grounded in reality in spite of its animated animal cast. Similarly, the characters' unassuming personalities make them and their struggles endearingly relatable. Bernard and Bianca's motives particularly stand out amongst the studio's larger than life heroes as they risk everything to help Penny not for glory or to fulfill some grand purpose, but simply because it is the right thing to do. In its depiction of the duo's efforts to save Penny the film serves as an apt reminder that even the most seemingly insignificant amongst us has the power to make a difference in the world. As a result, the film lends young viewers a vital lesson in selflessness while offering them fictional role models to aspire to. The film also sets itself apart from its fairytale counterparts through its willingness to explore real life dangers that children around the world face. Rather than being locked in a dungeon or placed under a curse, Penny is lured from her orphanage, kidnapped, and forced into slave labor mining diamonds for Medusa. This decidedly dark plot sheds light on the all too real horrors of child trafficking and offers young viewers a view into the real life dangers that lie in the outside world. The darker elements are tempered, however, with the characters' steadfast optimism and resolve in the face of adversity, reminding viewers that with determination, ingenuity, and a helping hand we can overcome any obstacles that we face. In an era in which Disney increasingly relies upon formulas, sequels, and remakes, The Rescuers serves as a vital reminder of the originality that the studio was once known for. For a glimpse of the creativity, imagination, and beauty that family entertainment was once synonymous with, join Bernard and Bianca in The Rescuers.

The film brings its story to whimsical life thanks to the work of its star studded cast. Jim Jordan lends apt comic relief as hapless albatross and pilot, Orville. John McIntire conveys grandfatherly warmth and wisdom as Penny's elderly cat, Rufus. Joe Flynn blends smarmy with slapstick as inept henchman Snoops. Michelle Stacy more than holds her own against her adult costars in a performance that is at once humorous, heartfelt, and heartbreaking as Penny. In Geraldine Page's hands Medusa is one of the most deliciously wicked villains in all of Disney. Bob Newhart and Eva Gabor make for a winning team as Bernard and Bianca. Newhart plays up his neurotic persona to full effect while still approaching credibility to Bernard's journey from reluctant rescuer to hero. Similarly, Gabor earns plenty of laughs in a turn that recalls her work in Green Acres but still infuses Bianca with warmth and quiet strength. Together, the two make for one of the most wholesome and wholly lovable pairings in all of animation.

At once a refreshing break from Disney's tired fairytale formula and a return to the studio's classic animation, The Rescuers is easily one of its most underrated works. The script expertly balances thrilling adventure and heartfelt lessons to create a story that truly is for the whole family. The voice performances and animation bring the story to daring and dazzling life. Seize the day with Bernard and Bianca in The Rescuers.

Classics: A Review of The Neverending Story By Lauren Ennis

 Since humanity began we have relied upon the power of storytelling. It is through stories that we make sense of our present, learn about our past, and contemplate our future. Even in our darkest moments stories light up our imagination with the hope and inspiration to go on. Few films capture the wonder of storytelling with the power of The Neverending Story. This 1984 adventure takes viewers on a fantastic journey to a faraway land into the depths of the human soul. Let your imagination soar with The Neverending Story.

The film begins with ten year-old Sebastian attempting to come to terms with the recent death of his mother. Rather than supporting the grieving boy, his father chastises him for his falling grades and daydreaming in class. On his way to school he is harassed by bullies who demand his lunch money. In the ensuing struggle he hides in a nearby bookstore. He then sees the store owner reading a mysterious book called The Neverending Story. After the store owner says that the book is not for sale because it is 'too dangerous' Sebastian waits for him to be distracted by a phone call and steals the book. He then cuts class, retreats to his school's attic, and begins reading, unlocking a world of fantasy and adventure. So begins a his quest to defeat the misery and despair that are engulfing the magical land of Fantasia and maybe even confront his own demons along the way.

The film sets itself apart from other fantasy movies of its era by using the adventures of its fantastic world to explore real life issues and the ways in which stories help us cope with them. The film begins with Sebastian confronted with his cold father and hostile classmates. Rather than face his problems, however, he retreats further into his fantasy, further feeding into his isolation and depression. Simultaneously, the land of Fantasia is slowly disappearing as its citizens give in to apathy and despair until the finally vanish. It is only through the efforts of optimistic and brave Atreyu that hope and life return to both Sebastian's world and Fantasia. Each time that Atreyu defeats a monster or comes to terms with a personal loss Sebastian becomes more inspired to face the adversity in his own life. In this way the film highlights the ways in which stories can motivate us to keep going even in our darkest moments. In the ultimate meta twist it is revealed that all of Atreyu's accomplishments will not be enough to revive Fantasia, and it is only through the inner strength, courage, and resilience of Sebastian that the land will survive. As a result, the film demonstrates how the powerful lessons and inspiration that we find in stories are not enough to change our lives if we do not act upon that inspiration. Through its dual depictions of Atreyu and Sebastian's stories The Neverending Story acts as a meditation upon the power of storytelling while reminding viewers that with courage, hope, and inspiration we can overcome anything.

The film brings the world of Fantasia to magical life thanks to the work of its cast. Tami Stronach perfectly captures the ethereal mystique of Fantasia's ailing empress. Thomas Hill aptly conveys the curmudgeonly exterior and inner warmth of bookstore owner Carl Conrad Coreander. Alan Oppenheimer steals the show in unforgettable voice performances as the dim-witted Rockbiter, the benevolent luck dragon Falkor, and the menacing monster Gmork. Noah Hathaway personifies heroism as the fearless and self-sacrificing warrior Atreyu. Barrett Oliver turns in a mature performance that belies his young years as  he portrays Sebastian's loneliness and grief while still maintaining a childlike innocence and sense of wonder.

Easily one of the most awesomely iconic films of the 1980's The Neverending Story continues to enthrall the young young at heart. The script strikes an impressive balance between introspection and adventure through its parallel quests against the fictional threat of 'the nothing' and the real world devastation of grief. The performances bring Michael Ende's novel in all of its magic to life. Reach the stars, fly a fantasy, and dream a dream in The Neverending Story.

Classics: A Review of Dolores Claiborne By Lauren Ennis

 Are some secrets best left hidden? Can we ever really escape out past? What does it take to survive in an unforgiving world? These are the questions that lie at the heart of the 1995 drama Dolores Claiborne. Part twisting whodunnit and part gritty character study Dolores Claiborne is wholly gripping viewing. Exploring such weighty topics as domestic violence, trauma, and the meaning of justice the film remains as resonant and relevant now as it was upon its release. Join Dolores Claiborne for a mystery in which who done it is just one of its devastating secrets. 

The film begins in 1990's Bangor Maine with elderly Vera Donovan being found dead at the bottom of her staircase. Complicating matters is the fact that Vera's caretaker and housekeeper, Dolores was found hovering over her dead body wielding a rolling pin.  After failing to indict Dolores in the suspicious death of her husband decades earlier lead investigator Detective Mackey makes it his personal mission to see her charged for Vera's murder. Meanwhile, Dolores' estranged daughter, professionally successful but personally tormented journalist Selina, returns home after fifteen years. In the ensuing days mother and daughter are confronted with long buried secrets and ghosts of their pasts, all leading up to a final reveal that is nothing short of devastating.

Dolores Claiborne may begin as a straight-forward mystery, but it soon becomes apparent that the film is every bit as complicated as its titular heroine. The film starts as as standard whodunit, but then uses that premise to explore deeper questions surrounding truth, justice, and trauma. While the story's two deaths give viewers plenty of questions to ponder it is the characters' efforts to grapple with those deaths that lead to the story's greatest revelations. In this way, the film functions as more of a 'why done it' than a 'whodunnit'. Through this subversion of genre expectations the film offers an unflinching portrait of two very different women and the tragedies that shaped them. In this way the film places audiences in each of its heroines' minds and forces us to consider what we would do in their position. As a result, the film raises vital questions that will haunt viewers long after its final mystery is solved, making it one of the most provocative, poignant, and engrossing entries in the thriller genre. 

The film transports viewers into the dark world of Stephen King thanks to the stellar performances of its star-studded cast. Christopher Plummer makes for a worthy adversary as dogged Detective Mackey. David Strathairn portrays Dolores' abusive husband, Joe, with the ideal blend of sinister and pathetic. Judith Parfitt proves to be a scene stealer as Dolores' formidable employer, Vera. Ellen Muth turns in a mature and nuanced performance in which she aptly captures childhood Selina's torment. Jennifer Jason Leigh personifies repressed trauma in her by turns gruff, cold, and ultimately gut-wrenching performance as Selina. Kathy Bates manages to outdo her iconic performance in Misery in her portrayal of Dolores' journey from helpless battered wife to self-proclaimed "high-riding bitch" in a role that King specifically wrote for her.

Even as it forgoes the scares and gore of horror Dolores Claiborne is easily one of the darkest and most haunting films adapted from the work of Stephen King. The script bring the novel's wrenching reveals and twisting plot to visceral life. The cast bring each of the characters to the screen with raw emotion and New England grit. Discover the cold hard truth with Dolores Claiborne.

Classics: A Review of Dangerous Liaisons By Lauren Ennis

 It is often said that all if fair in love and war. It is this sentiment that lovers and co-conspirators Marquis de Mertuil and Vicomte de Valmont live by. In 1988's Dangerous Liaisons the vicious pair conquer pre-revolutionary France using charm and lust as their weapons of choice. Nearly forty years after its release the film remains the gold standard for adaptation of of Pierre Choderlos de Laclos' 1782 novel. At once an apt portrait of pre-revolutionary France and a startlingly relevant exploration of sexual politics Dangerous Liaisons cuts every bit as deep as upon its initial release. 

The story begins in 1780's Paris. Scorned Marquis de Mertuil enlists the aid of her own on-again, off-again paramour Viscount de Valmont in a scheme to enact revenge against her most recent lover. This latest romance ended after her lover ended their relationship to pursue marriage with respectable, sheltered, socialite, Cecile. In an effort to disgrace Cecil the Marquis arranges for Valmont to seduce the young woman before her wedding night. To her frustration Valmont initially refuses, saying that he is already preoccupied with his own plot to seduce the virtuous Madame de Torval in retaliation against her politician husband. The Marquis then presents him with an offer he cannot refuse; one final night with her if he succeeds in seducing both Madame de Torval and Cecile. All goes according to the duo's devious plan until love threatens to get in the way.

The film brings de Laclos' novel to visceral life in all of its seductiveness, grit, and unabashed brutality. In its depiction of Valmont and the Marquis' pettiness and casual cruelty the film brilliantly portrays the banality of evil. Unlike most cinematic villains the pair pursue their vicious plans not for any grand purpose, but instead out of spite, vanity, and boredom. This matter of fact approach to the duo's duplicity makes their promiscuity depraved rather than glamorous. The blunt portrayal of their callousness also ensures that the havoc they leave in their wake is all the more devastating. As a result, the film avoids both glamorizing it leads' misdeeds and moralizing against them. In this way, the film raises difficult questions about love, lust, power, and personal responsibility without offering easy answers. The film's unflinching portrayal of a society grappling with hypocritical sexual politics and changing norms particularly resonates in our own society caught between such extremes as the rise of only fans and the 'trad-wife' trend. On this cold Valentine's Day feel the heat of Dangerous Liaisons.

The film transports viewers to the splendor of pre-revolutionary Paris thanks to the work of its star-studded cast. Uma Thurman perfectly captures Cecile's naivete and sensuality. Keanu Reeves conveys boy next door charm as Cecil's sincere but gullible music teacher and suitor, La Chavalier Danceny. Michelle Pfieffer turns in one of the best performances of her career as she blends decency, integrity, vulnerability, and resilience in her tragic turn as Madame de Torval. John Malkovich and Glen Close make for a legendary pairing as the equal parts devious and debauched Marquis de Mertuil and Viscount de Valmont. Malkovich combines calculation with cool charisma as the mercenary Valmont, while still portraying his crisis of conscience with pathos. Close is nothing short of iconic as the tactical, brutal, hypnotic, and never less than fascinating Marquis.

At once, a scathing critique of eighteenth century aristocracy and an apt warning for modern society Dangerous Liaisons remains dangerously good viewing. Through its biting script the film brings pre-revolutionary France to life in all of its sordidness and splendor. The performances are nothing short of iconic with Malkovich, Close, and Pfeiffer showcasing masterful performances. This Valentine's Day take a walk on the wild side with Dangerous Liaisons.

Classics: A Review of I Capture the Castle By Lauren Ennis

 Adolescence is a time associated with angst, confusion, and awkwardness. Rarely has the adolescent experience been captured with the heart and hilarity of 2003's I Capture the Castle. The film brings Dodie Smith's 1949 classic novel to vibrant, joyful life for a whole new generation. At once a slice of British life between the wars and a universal coming of age story I Capture the Castle is sure to capture viewers' hearts.

The story begins in the English countryside during the 1930's. Teenage aspiring writer Cassandra is living with her family in a decrepit castle. Even as the eccentric family enjoys the bohemian life in the castle they continue to sink ever deeper into poverty. After years of writer's block her famous author father's fortune has finally run out, leaving the family unable to pay their rent. When their landlord dies his two American grandsons arrive to collect the rent. Cassandra's older sister, Rose, sees the pair's arrival as the solution to the family's problems and sets to work trying to win the older son's heart. The sisters then embark upon a series of misadventures in life and love that is equal parts hilarious and heartbreaking.

The film sets itself apart from other coming of age stories through its winning combination of heart and humor. The script makes the most of the story's absurd premise as it highlights both the castle's decrepit state and the family's obliviousness to it. The film also shows the family's eccentricities by contrasting their oddball antics with the proper reserved behavior of those around them. Even as it revels in the characters' outlandishness, however, it is always careful to laugh with rather than at them. For example, while the film portrays the family's outrageous lifestyle it is also careful to portray the consequences of that lifestyle.. Similarly, the film champions the family's integrity in the face of artifice and conformity even as it plays the contrast for laughs. Through its unflinching portrait of its characters and its tongue in cheek view of their situation the film strikes the ideal balance between comedy and drama. In its loving depiction of the Mortmain family's misadventures the film captures the hijinks and heartache of growing up. Recapture the the and laughter of youth with Cassandra in I Capture the Castle.

The film transports viewers to Britain between the wars thanks to its endearingly eccentric performances. Rose Byrne embodies Rose's charm and cunning with equal skill. Henry Cavil exudes boy next door charm and sincerity as Cassandra's would-be suitor, Stephen. Henry Thomas aptly portrays American arrival Simon's culture shock and inner conflict. Mac Blucas is the ultimate brash American as Simon's obstinate brother, Neil. Bill Nighy portrays family patriarch James' bravado and pitifulness with realism and sympathy. Tara Fitzgerald is a delight as Cassandra's free-spirited stepmother, artists' model, Topaz. Even in the midst of apt supporting performances the film belongs to Romola Garai as Cassandra. Garai turns in a performance that captures all of the idealism, confusion, vulnerability, and romanticism of a girl on the verge of womanhood.

This deceptively simple slice of life drama encompasses the adolescent experience in all of its tragedy and triumph. The script brings Dodie Smith's beloved novel leaping onto the screen. The case brings each of their characters to life in all of their eccentricity and relatability. It is little wonder why generations of the young and young at heart continue to have their hearts captured by Cassandra and Rose in I Capture the Castle.

Classics: A Review of Gladiator By Lauren Ennis

 "Are you not entertained?!" gladiator Maximus famously asked the bloodthirsty crowd. Nearly a quarter century after its release Gladiator remains every bit as entertaining today as it was when it first arrived in theaters. After over two decades of cinematic innovation the film's combination of visceral action and poignant themes continues to pack a formidable punch. At once calling back to classic sword and sandals epics and offering pointed commentary upon the corrupt nature of government and the power of celebrity, Gladiator is a film for the ages. For viewing hat is sure to earn a thumbs up every time step into the ring with Gladiator.

The story begins in the twilight of the Roman Empire. General Maximums enjoys the brief glory of a victorious battle against the tribes of Germania. Following the battle's success he is chosen to succeed his mentor, Emperor Marcus Aurelius. When the emperor's wayward son, Commodus, learns that his place on the throne has been given to Maximus he schemes to assassinate his father. He then demands that Maximus pledge loyalty to him as the new emperor. When Maximus refuses Commodus orders that he be arrested and his wife and son be executed. Maximus escapes arrest only to later be captured by slave traders and sold as a gladiator. So begins a journey from general to slave to legend the likes of which cinema was made for.

The film's sincere exploration of timeless themes ensures that it remains a crowd please over two decades after its release. Even as the film aptly utilizes its historical setting, its portrayal of loss, revenge, and redemption feel at once both personal and universal. Regardless of viewers knowledge of or interest in ancient Rome, viewers will be hard pressed not to empathize with Maximus; tragic loss. As a result, his quest for revenge becomes a search for justice for which viewers will be rooting every bloody step of the way. Similarly, the film's depiction of political corruption and celebrity culture remain startlingly relevant. The film's depiction of the ways in which the power players of the empire make and break alliances on a whim particularly resonates in today's fraught political climate. Similarly, the way in which the empire's elites focus upon the circuses of the coliseum while their subjects suffer could be ripped from today's headlines. The film also brilliantly explores the power of celebrity with Maximus' meteoric rise eerily mirroring the ascension of today's celebrities and influencers. Even as it shows the ways in which he uses his newfound fame to his advantage, however, the film is careful to highlight the fickle nature of celebrity in a scathing critique that serves as an apt warning for our own fame obsessed culture. Even as it contemplates weighty themes, the film delivers pule-pounding action and gritty realism that will make even today's cynical viewers squirm. Forget the sequels and imitators and let Maximus entertain you in Gladiator.

The film transports viewers to the splendor and squalor of ancient Rome thanks to the work of its cast. Spencer Treat Clark captures the innocence and enthusiasm of childhood as Commodus' nephew, Lucius. Connie Nielsen is at once alluring and formidable as Commodus' sister and Maximus' former lover, Lucilla. Richard Harris personifies leadership in his brief turn as Marcus Aurelius. Joaquin Phoenix makes for one of the most memorable villains in modern cinema in a performance that blends menace, madness, and pitifulness as Commodus. Russell Crowe turns in a career defining performance as Maximus. In Crowe's hands Maximus is neither a historical figure nor a larger than life hero but instead an ordinary, believable, and all too relateable man. As a result, viewers will be certain to root just as hard as the Coliseum's crowds for his success in the face of overwhelming adversity.

In its depiction of one man's quest for justice Gladiator captures the grandeur of classic epics and the raw emotion of modern cinema. The script offers up plenty of bloody action while still tackling weighty themes that continue to resonate today. The star-studded cast bring the Roman Empire to vibrant and visceral life. For a truly epic entertainment experience step into the arena with Gladiator.

"Now you are free"

Classics: A Review of The Land Before Time By Lauren Ennis

 For nearly a century Wald Disney Studios has dominated Western animation. The mighty Disney was nearly toppled from its throne, however, when one of its own animators went rogue and opened his own studio. Between 1982 and 2000 Don Bluth and his team of animators released a series of films that rivalled even the best of Disney and defined family entertainment for a generation. One of his most beloved films is 1988's The Land Before Time. At once a harrowing hero's journey and a heartfelt ode to the power of friendship The Land Before Time remains a timeless classic that the whole family will enjoy.

"Let your heart guide you. It whispers, so listen closely"

The story begins in the age of the dinosaurs . When a famine strikes the land the dinosaur herds are forced to journey in search of food. Along the way an earthquake occurs which scatters the herds across the landscape. In the ensuing chaos Littlefoot, Cera, Ducky, Petri, and Spike are separated from their families. The five unlikely friends then band together and set off in search of the fabled Great Valley, where there is enough food to sustain all of the herds. The quintet's journey proves to be one of tragedy, friendship, and triumph the likes of which animation was made for.

Over thirty years after its release The Land Before Time remains classic family entertainment. The film takes viewers on a mesmerizing journey into the distant past while exploring universal themes. The dinosaur diaspora depicted in the film recalls mass migrations throughout history and aptly conveys the harrowing struggles of the refugee experience. The film's unflinching depiction of loss earns particular note as it portrays the various stages of Littlefoot's grief with aching accuracy. Even in the midst of its weighty themes the film maintains an optimistic outlook as its characters carry on even in the face of daunting obstacles. The film also offers lessons in friendship that will resonate with children and adults alike. The script additionally offers vital messages against prejudice without becoming heavy-handed or resorting to lecturing. Even as it contemplates larger issues the film never forgets that it is at its core an adventure story as it takes viewers on an epic journey for the whole family. Discover the timelessness of The Land Before Time.

The animation transports viewers to the beauty and danger of the prehistoric world while the vocal performances bring the characters to vibrant life. The scenery captures the awe inspiring of majesty of a land lost to time. The character designs aptly depict various dinosaur species while still infusing each individual character with personality and expression. The film's young actors turn in some of the most memorable performances in modern animation. Helen Shaver is certain to soften even the hardest of hearts in her by turns heart-warming and heartbreaking portrayal of Littlefoot's mother. Will Ryan lends apt comedic relief as neurotic but loveable Petrie. Candace Huston perfectly balances Cera's proud exterior with inner vulnerability. Judith Barsi steals each scene in which she appears as Duckie, leaving viewers wondering what her career could have been had it not been tragically cut short. Gabriel Dunn effectively leads the cast as he portrays Littlefoot's journey with a nuance and raw emotion rarely found in child performances.

In just seventy minutes The Land Before Time makes the case for the magic of Don Bluth's animation. the script combines the classic hero's journey with vital lessons in resilience and friendship to relate a compelling drama for all ages. The vibrant vocal performances and dazzling animation transport viewers to the majesty of the prehistoric world. For a truly timeless adventure explore The Land Before Time.

"We'll be okay as long as we stick together"