I like reviewing movies on here so if you are one of the few who actually reads my thoughts, thank you. Here are some insights into my Five Star movie rating system. It’s obviously pretty simple:
One through five stars, more is better. I tend to be tough with the star reviews and it takes a lot to earn earn anything over 2 &1/2 stars or **1/2.
Specifically I am looking at things like plot, pacing, photography, cast and acting and the visual appeal of the mvie like the wardrobe and set selection. I like “pretty” movies that are visually arousing and exciting. I go to the movies for travel and escape mostly. If a movie sweeps me up and inspires me, then I like it.
I don’t like movies that are tedious or “classics” for no good reason. I also generally don’t comedies or novellty movies. I like sweeping stories with drama, action and sometimes a historical/political perspective. I am a sucker for excellent action and don’t care for corny special effects.
If you’ve read this far here are some recent star ratings of titles you’ll recognize (old and new) to give you an idea where I stand on them:
*Gladiator ****** One of very few movies I give five stars to.
*Shawshank Redemption ***** *Another very rare five star.
*Titanic ***** *The movie has beauty, action, an original story and is captivating.
*Heat ***** *Action, suspense, style: Say no more. Tense from the opening scene.
*Ice Station Zebra **** *A absolute classic of the spy/thriller genre. Tom Clancy before Clancy.
*Them **** *The archtypical '50’s sci-fi movie blaming it all on The Bomb.
*The Green Berets ***** It made me join the Army. Propoganda? The Duke? It’s fine then.
*The Notebook **** Surprisingly good but hopelessly sappy. Nice story but heart breaking.