Not a lot of film-watching for me this week as I've been putting in longer days at work, which translates to shorter evenings and earlier bedtimes. Oh well, c'est la vie, eh? Regardless, I did begin watching the 1983 Costa-Gavras release Hanna K. (which is only available on VHS), starring the late Jill Clayburgh and a young Gabriel Byrne. Unfortunately, I found the film (at the least the beginning of it) to be oddly dull (which surprised me because the plot seems like it would be very interesting and Costa-Gavras productions [IMHO] are typically gripping affairs). Anyway, the result of longer workdays and a film that hasn't (so far) grabbed my attention was that I found myself nodding-off about an hour in to the proceedings. I plan to complete my viewing of it in a day or two, so more comments to come....
One more thing for now: Just want to mention (and remember) that about 10 days ago I finally watched a film that has proved illusive to me for more than 20 years: George Sluizer's original The Vanishing (Spoorloos), which has been on my mental "must-see" list since oh, only about 1991(!). So here's the deal with this film...it is arguably the best and most intelligent thriller/horror film...ever. I simply can't say enough good things about it and I've been recommending it to anyone who enjoys good films ever since watching it (if you happen to stumble-upon this blog, go get your hands on a copy as soon as you can--do not hesitate). By the way, even though the film still exists on VHS (and I, of course, love VHS), I viewed it via DVD as I recently ordered a copy of the disc for the library in which I work after noticing that Criterion offered it, figuring that they would include some extra goodies. Oddly enough, their release only contains the film, the theatrical trailer, and a brief essay. Can't complain though, as the print looked fantastic on an HDTV.
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