Question:
First things first:
http://www.plauder-smilies.de/rough/comeandgetsome.gif Ecks vs Sever Rules http://www.plauder-smilies.de/rough/2ar15smilie.gif
Wow. Wow! I was afraid I built and hyped myself up too much, first time for any movie since 1997's The Fifth Element have I ever been this excited in anticipation of anything!
Edit: Scroll to end for synopsis.
Edit II: Second viewing opinions added.
Edit III: Soundtrack and score info added.
I've waited for it for so long, I've been so happy, I go in to see it in my favorite theater where I've religiously went for the past 5 or 6 years now, and guess what, the movie starts and the sound is all messed up, the surrounds are too loud while central speakers are quiet so you can't hear most of the dialogue and special effects coming from the middle, and when there is gunfire or explosions, it sounds very weak, because guess what, damn subwoofers seem to be out too! And this is in the best, most luxurious theater in LA, which has the most private studio premieres (not counting the Mann Chinese). I guess I jinxed it by hyping it up in the other thread just prior to, or maybe that absentine supreme being though: "He's happy, I hate that, I'll screw up the sound for him", I don't know. I went out, I asked the usher to go fix it, he went, I went back to the theater, missing a bit of the movie, and I sit and don't notice any changes. I think everyone else in the theater is just too lazy or too stupid or both to realize that something is wrong. I was about to leave because I didn't want to see this movie that way, but I couldn't peel my eyes off the screen.
It draws you in and doesn't let go. Basically, the way I viewed it was like watching a DVD with Isolated Score turned on, I barely heard any dialogue or even footsteps, usual sound effects coming from the middle, and STILL loved the movie. That's a BIG credit to its components, because if you take a part of some other film away, it all falls apart, but this one can be appreciated on many levels. Maybe it wasn't a bad thing because I was able to enjoy the wonderful score and beautiful cinematography. I will go see it again in another theater to experience the rest of the movie :lol:
It seems short, it flies by very fast, and would benefit from another half an hour, even though it successfuly creates a unique mood and atmosphere. There are literally dozens and dozens of individual shots that could go into any art store frame. Action sets are amazing as well, Kaos the director opted for 70's style, more realistic, no blue screens or CGI crap, and everything happening at the same time just filmed with many cameras so that you feel more in the moment rather than filming the same 10 second action bit on different days from different angles and setups, then it doesn't feel as realistic.
In one great scene, that train stations/factory scene near the end, we see one of the wagons explode and the camera pans around from the back of the characters watching it to the front, without cuts, so we see their real reaction to it, standing relatively close. Things like that make the movie even better.
There are 4 major action sets, 2 of them very grande in scope, like the supermarket sequence where Ray Park's agent decides to capture Lucy Liu's Sever for his boss who've kidnapped his daughter. She ends up, and this is not a spoiler, to use an online gaming term, "owning" them single handedly with a picked up P90 and other weaponry. I love the shot where she drops her empty rifle and elegantly opens up her coat and takes out two extendable sticks and beats up the whole armored truck full of SWAT guys, then mounts its big ass machine gun and sprays the whole plaza and dozens of cars and cops and buildings. That was just beyond words.
http://www.plauder-smilies.de/rough/mgwhore2.gif
The cars flipping in unison is also shockingly great, I won't spoil that one. BTW, the trailer must be one of the best ever, it shows everything yet tells nothing, it very accurately represents the movie, though some scenes and dialogue were rearranged and do not appear in the movie in the same order obviously.
There is also much more to the story than what's revealed in the trailer or synopseses (sp?), it's very touching and spiritual, and characters are all flawed and haunted. I like another scene where Banderas' Ecks is looking at a wall rack full of various weapons, yet there isn't any glamorization of that, no hip music and "lets load up and kick ass" Ahhnold attitide, but a rather sad, tired look on his face, and he notices a photo of Sever with her child. All of what they're doing is just means to an end. And killing 40 or so cops does not make her a bad person or a murderer. Like in Kiefer Sutherland's directorial debut Truth or Consequences been said, "Everyone knows the rules. They're the good guys, I'm the bad guy, it's their job to catch me, it's my job not to get caught, and I'll do anything..." The agents are on the job, it was their choice and if they die it's no one's fault, it's just a mini-war going on, they're victims, nothing more.
I also liked seeing Banderas with his big bad long XM shotgun. You really don't see enough shotguns in movies. That reminds me of more cool scenes, all filmed so realistically, looking hurried and messy, but not in a bad way.
Lucy Liu's subtle facial expressions and cute half-smiles make me sooo softy, she makes up for the lack of dialogue very well, expressing her character through other means.
Besides the score, the songs used are also great, a couple of familiar ones that I noticed are BT's Smartbomb and Crystal Method's Name of the Game, but others I'll have to track down.
Soundtrack CD comes out October 1st, but I think it's just the score, I'll have to get that.
All in all, I've put a lot of expectations on Ecks vs Sever and even with one of the worst theatrical experiences I had this year it managed to deliver and more! That is incredible. I just cannot say enough good things about it. I'm sure all the other movies I see this week and month will pale in comparison.
Looks like I'll have to make a spot for it on my Top10, I think Time:code will have to go as other 9 are not that replaceable.
P.S. I didn't proof-read the above so ignore all typos and assume there are about 480 more "wows" and "perfects" and other praises of guns, Lucy Liu, and cinematography.
http://www.plauder-smilies.de/rough/fal.gif
5 stars out of 5. Will give 6 out of 5 when I see it in a proper theater.
*****
Yeah! I saw it for the second time today. It sounded SO much better with subwoofers and a proper sound setup, I enjoyed it enormously. This is pure, 100% exstasy!
Some things I wanna add:
The scene I missed last time was actually one of the best moments, as Gant the head of DIA confronts his employee that was responsible for transporting his kidnapped son, and gives him a gun to shoot himself. I won't spoil it either, but know it's great.
Ecks' DIA laptop interface is basically the screensaver that is downloadable on the official site below.
Roger Ebert's dig at Sever "killing 40 or so" cops and SWAT guys is not correct. First of all she's a perfect marksman and shoots very accurately, second, she never engages anyone or hurts anyone first. When they surround her in the shopping plaza, she only defends herself as needed. She runs between columns aiming at the cops behind cars and hurrying about but never shoots until is shot upon, and even then she returns fire to the cars and maybe a few into the hand or leg, to scare them off and put out of action. She barely really kills anyone, just self defense induced injuries and some from explosions. So, she's not a killer, she's a mother. :D
Also, action is very nicely dispersed throughout the movie with calmer, quiet moments. I still cannot understand how could 30 explosions per second in XXX could get 50% positive reviews and Ballistic be acused of repetitive, numbing explosions and get 0%?!
The action is very diverse, and there aren't any repetitions of the same explosions ten times from all angles in slow motion. In Ecks vs Sever it all happens very realistically quickly and leaves a much better feeling. I literally love every shot of this movie.
Oh and those cool clothes Sever wears, and just the whole movie's wardrobe is designed by none other than Magali Guidasci, who did costumes for Besson's Leon the Professional and Subway! No wonder they're so great. BTW, I bought a Banderas' Ecks 4x8 feet theatrical banner and it arrived today, so now I have a pair of them, for each agent, will hang on either side of the home theater, it's gona be awesome! :dork:
Synopsis:
In the deadly game of international espionage, elite, anonymous operatives wage secret wars for power, information and national security. Agendas are rarely what they seem.
Word has recently been circulating in these exclusive ranks of an ingenious new assassination device. Microscopic and injectable, it lies dormant inside its victim until activated and then kills in an instant, leaving no trace.
In the frantic race to obtain this device, only two individuals, sworn enemies, have the skill, talent and tenacity to succeed. One is an agent known only by the code name Sever (LUCY LIU). Lethally trained to be the perfect weapon, Sever is precise and relentless in her pursuit of a goal. The other is the brilliant and determined former FBI man-hunter Jeremiah Ecks (ANTONIO BANDERAS).
Once preeminent in his field, Ecks resigned from the agency when his wife was killed in an explosion that left him a guilt-ridden emotional shell of himself. Now, forced back into service by his former mentor for the most challenging assignment of his career, Ecks prepares to face off against agent Sever, his most formidable foe.
In the fierce competition for this deadly prize there can only be one winner.
But when the rules change, these two dedicated adversaries find that the one they're trying to defeat might be the only one they can trust.
Franchise Pictures presents a Chris Lee/Franchise Pictures Production in association with MHF Erste Academy Film GmbH & Co. Produktions KG: Antonio Banderas and Lucy Liu starring in the explosive action adventure Ballistic: Ecks vs. Sever. Directed by Kaos from a screenplay by Alan McElroy, the film is produced by Elie Samaha, Chris Lee and Kaos, and also stars Gregg Henry, Ray Park, Talisa Soto and Miguel Sandoval. Andrew Stevens, Tarak Ben Ammar, Tracee Stanley and Oliver Hengst are the executive producers. Doug Higgins is the production designer; Julio Macat, A.S.C., is the director of photography; Jay Cassidy, A.C.E. and Caroline Ross are the editors. Music is by Don Davis, and Michael Lloyd serves as music supervisor. Magali Guidasci is the costume designer.
Ballistic: Ecks vs. Sever will be distributed domestically by Warner Bros. Pictures, an AOL Time Warner Company. This film has been rated R by the MPAA for "strong violence."
www.ecksvssever.com
Check out the great official site for lots of textual information and photos, screensavers for either agent, etc. It really helps if you read character backgrounds before seeing the movie. Production notes contain spoilers.
Soundtrack and score
[http://members.lycos.co.uk/brdeckard/ballistic.jpg
After watching the movie 3 times now and getting the official soundtrack from Varese, I expected, prior to knowing the track listing, that it'll be mostly score like usually from that music company, but it's actually a compilation of songs featured in the movie. It was a pleasant surprise as I wanted some tracks from the film that I couldn't find elsewhere, like Parrot's Time that plays when Ecks and Sever drive in the dusk, and Hunter's Go that plays during the final massacre, but they put the wrong remix of BT's Smartbomb, not the one featured in the movie, which was the original version, thankfully I had it elsewhere and put it on my custom MD soundtrack. Still, lots and lots of music I heard in the movie weren't on the soundtrack that came out October 1st, which was BTW the first CD I actually bought in over a year, last one being another soundtrack to The Center of the World.
Thing is, the original score by Don Davis is so masterfuly intergrated and mixed in with the songs that you're really not sure where there is a song or the score playing, and I wished for a second soundtrack to be released, and there you go, Varese Sarabande woke up and did what they grew popular on, releasing that original score on October 29th:
BALLISTIC: ECKS VS. SEVER
Original Motion Picture Score
Music Composed by Don Davis
The perfect companion piece to the techno-electronica soundtrack CD, the rhythmic and propulsive score for BALLISTIC is now available and features over 68 minutes of Don Davis' absolutely thrilling score.
Warner Bros. picture opens September 20.
Catalog #: 302 066 420 2
Release Date: 10/29/02
Awesome! 68 minutes of that great score, I'll be in heaven once again and hope the movie is still in some theater by the time I get my hands on it.
http://www.varesesarabande.com/details.asp?pid=302-066-413-2
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
I just cannot say enough good things about it.
:confused: THAT'S an understatement!
Lenny, you mentioned EVERYTHING about the film EXCEPT what it was about :p
Nice review though (except for the no-synopsis thing)
Well, my first view of this film was based on what I read on the website, I was going to mark it down as another OTT [mediocre] action film.
BUT, you have really whetted my appetite with that review. I must check out the trailer now.
Cheers fella, :thumbs:
Bionk!
Originally posted by Tiffany Bradford
Lenny, you mentioned EVERYTHING about the film EXCEPT what it was about :p
Nice review though (except for the no-synopsis thing)
Roger that, edited for addition of synopsis. :D
Its worth pointing out that rotton tomatoes have currently got this film ranked as 40 reviews all of which are bad giving the film a 100% rotten rating. Quite an achievement !. :D
Also, some of Lennys all time favourite films include Resident Evil & Final Fantasy. :lol: ;)
Still, anything that has Banderas cocking his over sized pistol gets my vote. :D
Originally posted by Jimmyboy
Its worth pointing out that rotton tomatoes have currently got this film ranked as 40 reviews all of which are bad giving the film a 100% rotten rating. Quite an achievement !. :D
Also, some of Lennys all time favourite films include Resident Evil & Final Fantasy
Which is exactly the demographic product like this is manufactured for.
BTW - Now up to 62 out of 62 negative reviews.
What’s the betting we see this on DVD within four months?
Originally posted by Jimmyboy
Also, some of Lennys all time favourite films include Resident Evil & Final Fantasy. :lol: ;)
You bet, and what wonderful pictures those are!
Originally posted by jonathan.e
Which is exactly the demographic product like this is manufactured for.
BTW - Now up to 62 out of 62 negative reviews.
What’s the betting we see this on DVD within four months?
Kaos is in his 20s, he knows his stuff, he delivered. I'll keep an eye out for his next project, just like with Paul WS Anderson now. :D
Oh and sooner we get the DVD the less $10 bills I spend on movie tickets meanwhile.
Watched it properly the second time today, added some things in the original post.
This movie sucked. Am very glad it was a free preview. Hands down the worst script I have seen in ages. The plot is so stupidly unbelievable. The characters are morons. But the special effects are nice. They are the only thing worth seeing.
Stay faaaaar away from this one unless you just want to see stuff being destroyed and don't care about a plot.
Originally posted by IndyMode
But the special effects are nice. They are the only thing worth seeing.
I take it that Lucy Liu doesn't cut the mustard for you, then?:norty:
Originally posted by nicklock
I take it that Lucy Liu doesn't cut the mustard for you, then?:norty:
No, but Antonio Bandaras ain't bad:norty:
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
Looks like I'll have to make a spot for it on my Top10, I think Time:code will have to go as other 9 are not that replaceable.
I think I'd have nightmares if I ever saw your Top 10 list:D
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
Looks like I'll have to make a spot for it on my Top10, I think Time:code will have to go as other 9 are not that replaceable.
You're kidding...right?
Originally posted by nc
I think I'd have nightmares if I ever saw your Top 10 list:D
Let the nightmares begin...:D :nuts:
Lenny's Top Ten
Blade Runner
ExistenZ
Eye of the Beholder
Fifth Element, The
Hurlyburly
Leon: The Professional
Resident Evil
Strange Days
Tailor of Panama, The
Timecode (2000)
Originally posted by Tiffany Bradford
Lenny's Top Ten
ExistenZ
Ohhh, I saw that the other day - one of the freakiest movies I have seen - V. strange... Strange Days rocks tho :D
Originally posted by Tiffany Bradford
You're kidding...right?
Let the nightmares begin...:D :nuts:
Lenny's Top Ten
Blade Runner
ExistenZ
Eye of the Beholder
Fifth Element, The
Hurlyburly
Leon: The Professional
Resident Evil
Strange Days
Tailor of Panama, The
Timecode (2000)
No I'm not kidding, and currently rearranging my whole collection, breaking down the Movies section in about 15 categories, and Time:code won't get lost as I've created a new Top 11-20 section where it'll go along with Swordfish, Fight Club and some others. :D
What's wrong with my Top 1-10?! I think it's a very respectable list of movies, oh and they're in alphabetical order, I'd kill myself before I'd be able to decide which goes where and in what order.
Originally posted by IndyMode
Ohhh, I saw that the other day - one of the freakiest movies I have seen - V. strange... Strange Days rocks tho :D
eXistenZ was actually quite good - a very original (albeit hard-to-follow-at-times story), great acting and cool special effects.
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
What's wrong with my Top 1-10?! I think it's a very respectable list of movies
With the exception of three of the films, it is a VERY good list! :)
Originally posted by Tiffany Bradford
eXistenZ was actually quite good - a very original (albeit hard-to-follow-at-times story), great acting and cool special effects.
With the exception of three of the films, it is a VERY good list! :)
Thanks for your support fellow movie fanatic :D Though I've added Swordfish there now, and my 11-20 must really be scaaaary :lol:
What happened to your msg board status, guest? Not registered yet? Hmm.
P.S. I've added the original score and soundtrack info above.
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
What happened to your msg board status, guest? Not registered yet? Hmm.
Has Tiffany been deleted or something? :confused:
~~stu
Nice review Lenny! :thumbs:
I don't think this one will win any oscars but it will allow me to turn off my brain and enjoy some cool looking violence for 90 minutes.
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
What happened to your msg board status, guest? Not registered yet? Hmm.
I'm still here...like I would leave you Lenny :rolleyes: :D
Great Acting! Great Action! Nice Score but still a below average action film.
The plot was weak ... you dont know whats happening till near the end of the film, so the first hour is just clueless action scenes.
Its a lot better then xXx (Dance Musics better then Rammstein, and Banderas better then Diesel!!) but still only worth a rent at best IMO :(
Better or worse or the same as Charlies Angels?
:)
Originally posted by Jez
Better or worse or the same as Charlies Angels?
:)
Well I personally hated Charlies Angels and would say Ecks Vs Sever was 10 times better than that rubbish. I just never liked Charlies Angels at all which I was surprised at - considering the tottie in it! I am actually surprised at the slagging Ecks... has gotten, sure it isn't anything special and for me it is a guilty pleasure but there are some nice action scenes in it which should give your system a workout :D :p
Even if you dont like Ecks... it will be easy to get rid of the dvd as i am sure there are plenty of people on the classifieds who want to give it a once over :)
Originally posted by Jez
Better or worse or the same as Charlies Angels?
:)
better ... but thats not saying much! :D
Thats good cause i quite enjoyed angels so might give this one a look anyone wonna sell it to me?:)
Happy xmas;)
It's alive! This thread is still alive and I've already deleted the pics from my original post off the server.
You can't compare Ballistic with Charlie's Angels, because Angels is very campy and a comedy/parody, but Ecks vs Sever rightfuly takes itself very seriously, like Reign of Fire, I admire that in a movie.
:notworthy Lenny for having "Eye of the beholder" in your Top 10!
Did you know the UK R2 version is a longer cut than the US version? especially good is the final scene - He's on the bike, she's in the car - in slow motion! that you only see a 'moment' of in the US trailer, way more moving. Oh, but I should tell u that the UK version is 'opened out' from 2.35:1 to 16:9. But if you've looked at the 4:3 version on side 2 of the US release you'll know it's open-matte so the composition isn't greatly affected.
now, "Ballistic" - to order or not to order...?
Been reading Reviews for Ecks vs severall round the net and the general consensus is it's a bag of *****.. So either you'ved got bad taste in movies or 95% of the population is wrong ;)
Not seen it myself so I can't judge..
Thought Resident Evil was ok - an average film if there was one.. Nothing in the league of my Top 10:-
Minority Report, LOTR:FOTR, Pulp fiction, Reservoir Dogs, Robocop, Total recall, Dog Soldiers, Fight club, Terminator 2, One Flew over the cuckoo's nest
I've gotta admit that I bought this recently (mainly on the strength of Lenny's review:eek: ) hoping that it would be one of those movies that are soooo bad they're actually good:)
Really enjoyed it!! If you like trashy action movies (think Commando, Roadhouse and Cobra) you can add this one to your list:)
Just pure entertainment. (don't listen to the reviews!!)
Lenny Nero:notworthy
I'll be buying it anyway.. If it is just a mindless action flick then you just need to look at my Top 10 to know what i like :)
Reviews though have suggested it is crap but like you say reviews are personal opinions..
After reading Lenny's review, I downloaded the trailer and thought it looked great. I like a bit of mindless action now and again, and this looks like a great bit of entertainment.
Once again, I have ordered a film solely based on peoples opinions from these forums. Without being a member of this forum, I would have missed out on such classics as Brotherhood of the Wolf and Battle Royale.
Looking through Lenny's top 10 makes for interesting reading. I love Blade Runner, Fifth Element, Strange Days and Resident Evil, so based on the fact that I like more than half of his top ten, I am now going to have track down The Tailor of Panama, HurlyBurly and Eye Of The Beholder.
Ray
Originally posted by Richie
:notworthy Lenny for having "Eye of the beholder" in your Top 10!
Did you know the UK R2 version is a longer cut than the US version? especially good is the final scene - He's on the bike, she's in the car - in slow motion! that you only see a 'moment' of in the US trailer, way more moving. Oh, but I should tell u that the UK version is 'opened out' from 2.35:1 to 16:9. But if you've looked at the 4:3 version on side 2 of the US release you'll know it's open-matte so the composition isn't greatly affected.
Yeah I knew it was open matte, but I still prefer the original ratio, because you do miss bit on the sides with the 4:3 version, but if it's just opened up a little to 1.78:1 then it's ok. I also thought that only that ending scene is added back in where they reach for each other. Is there anything else inserted besides that? Maybe there is a detailed comparison somewhere online? I'd appreciate that!
Originally posted by Jon B
Really enjoyed it!!
Just pure entertainment. (don't listen to the reviews!!)
Lenny Nero:notworthy
Good for us! :thumbs:
Originally posted by billybuttons
Looking through Lenny's top 10 makes for interesting reading. I love Blade Runner, Fifth Element, Strange Days and Resident Evil, so based on the fact that I like more than half of his top ten, I am now going to have track down The Tailor of Panama, HurlyBurly and Eye Of The Beholder.
Ray
Nothing would make me more happy than another person discovering those overlooked movies. There isn't much action or "stuff blowin' up reeeel good" in those 3 though, they're all character studies, Hurlyburly especially was originally an off-broadway play, so it all takes place in one house, and Tailor of Panama is what Bond should be like.
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
Re: "Eye of the beholder"
I also thought that only that ending scene is added back in where they reach for each other. Is there anything else inserted besides that? Maybe there is a detailed comparison somewhere online? I'd appreciate that!
yes there is more!
imdb link (http://us.imdb.com/AlternateVersions?0120662)
the UK dvd has more than listed including much more to the watery assassination scene on the train! At some point I'll do a proper comparrison!
once upon a time I had a thread about the differences on here but I guess it's long gone as I can't find it in 'search'.
Alright, that's it, I'm getting a third DVD of this movie, thanks a lot! :p
But it's just J5.99, plus I meant to pick up a couple of others, like Folks!
Nothing would make me more happy than another person discovering those overlooked movies
what not even getting to Bone Nina Nyers :D
Originally posted by Nimak
what not even getting to Bone Nina Nyers :D
That's like on the whole other level, beyond comparison to anything. Plus she's not like 100s of those models or bimbos who you just like sexualy and that's it. I didn't notice Nina Myers at first, only started liking her more and more while getting to know her character better, then came all those other feelings :norty: That's real "love". If it's just "boning" then you're gona get tired of that person after a couple of days, right? :D
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
That's like on the whole other level, beyond comparison to anything. Plus she's not like 100s of those models or bimbos who you just like sexualy and that's it. I didn't notice Nina Myers at first, only started liking her more and more while getting to know her character better, then came all those other feelings :norty: That's real "love". If it's just "boning" then you're gona get tired of that person after a couple of days, right? :D
Tough luck lenny, the guy playing George Mason - Xander Berkeley is getting married to Sarah Clarke so the only boning being done will be by him! :D :lol:
Originally posted by mr_woo
Tough luck lenny, the guy playing George Mason - Xander Berkeley is getting married to Sarah Clarke so the only boning being done will be by him! :D :lol:
I know :( I'm talking theoretically and generally anyway. Plus I like Xander Berkeley, so good for him :thumbs:
LOL:D
Depends on the Girl i'm boning :norty:
Back on topic.
Just watched it and basically it's crap.
What a waste of a good license and two great stars.
The first half of the film is dire and has the feel of a cheap Hong Kong movie (in fact this film would probably have been better if it starred Chow Yun Fat and was made in HK). The second half was better with both action and character development but never reached any level approaching good.
Lucy Liu is a top actress but she was totally wasted here.
Dunno who the director was - but as soon as I saw that he had one of these single word names I knew we were in trouble. :(
Ono scores it 4 out of 10.
I liked it, it's better than XXX
I would give it 8.5/10
I agree with you about Nina Myers and not noticing her straight away
It was the same with Gillian Anderson when X-files first started
Well Lenny, your enthusiasm has a lot to answer for young fella. I got this, as many have here, based on your review. Now I like trashy action as much as the next man (see the Deep Blue Sea thread) but I have to say that Ballistic: Ecks vs Sever is the, repeat, the worst film I have ever actually paid money to own on disc - an accolade held until recently by Chill Factor.
And Ray Park :eek: What the hell was that all about? He made Jason Stratham look like Sir John Guilgud!!!!!!!!! Now I really want to see the Phantom Menace with Park's original voice :D
Truly, truly dreadful!
Originally posted by Dear Mr Echo
He made Jason Stratham look like Sir John Guilgud!!!!!!!!! :lol:
Yeah, he woz shockin'! & I gotta agree, as much as I luv tacky, brain-dead action pics, this movie SUCKED!!
Originally posted by Dear Mr Echo
And Ray Park :eek: What the hell was that all about? He made Jason Stratham look like Sir John Guilgud!!!!!!!!! Now I really want to see the Phantom Menace with Park's original voice :D
Truly, truly dreadful!
I've just seen this movie (mediocre on all counts), but Ray Park really does take the biscuit.
Did he think he was in a school play or something?
He didn't get much to work with in the script, but man alive he stank the place out. :lol:
The only thing that kept me watching was waiting for him to get his ass whupped.
Unquestionably the worst movie i've seen in a while - in fact I have absolutely nothing good to say about it at all. The score was an aural assault, the acting a travesty, the plot non-existent and action was tacky, OTT and uninspired. I would've cited this as one of the worst movies ive ever seen but fortunately for Mr. Kaosayananda I'd seen 'Freddy God Fingered' first! Wish I'd gone to that tupperware party instead....
Originally posted by billybuttons
After reading Lenny's review, I downloaded the trailer and thought it looked great. I like a bit of mindless action now and again, and this looks like a great bit of entertainment.
Once again, I have ordered a film solely based on peoples opinions from these forums. Without being a member of this forum, I would have missed out on such classics as Brotherhood of the Wolf and Battle Royale.
Looking through Lenny's top 10 makes for interesting reading. I love Blade Runner, Fifth Element, Strange Days and Resident Evil, so based on the fact that I like more than half of his top ten, I am now going to have track down The Tailor of Panama, HurlyBurly and Eye Of The Beholder.
Ray
So you soley rely on this site for film recommendations?:oh-hum:
Finally got round to watching Ecks vs Sever - it was on Channel 5 and I have to say it is without doubt one of the worst films I have ever seen. The plot is nonsensical, the music is dire, the fight scenes are rubbish and as for Ray Park ! As other people have mentioned he delivers all his lines in the same disinterested monotone - there is no emotion in his delivery at all.
No wonder this didn't get a cinema release in the UK - truly awful !!!
Has one of those great "how the hell did they do that??!!" moments in the film though, which always redeems the (fairly average, IMO) film for me.
The SWAT guy gets shot and falls off a really tall building in slow-motion, crashing onto a car below.... in one take. Incredible scene.
I wonder what happened to Lenny Nero. He was a character.
I wonder what happened to "Kaos" - he was utter crap.
I've just checked imdb and someone's actually let him near a camera again. These fools, like bourgeois capitalist despots, learn nothing from history.
Only in Thailand though. Not a real film :)
I wonder what happened to "Kaos" - he was utter crap.
I've just checked imdb and someone's actually let him near a camera again. These fools, like bourgeois capitalist despots, learn nothing from history.
I want to know how an inexperienced director managed to helm a $70 million budget film.
Has one of those great "how the hell did they do that??!!" moments in the film though, which always redeems the (fairly average, IMO) film for me.
The SWAT guy gets shot and falls off a really tall building in slow-motion, crashing onto a car below.... in one take. Incredible scene.
Not hard :) a desender rig at a guess, thats why it looked so bad as it was desended so slooww it looked fake, no senseof speed at all sadly.
Bad film from me too :) poo in fact.
But nice stick fight bit if I remember and Talisa Soto was hot.
I want to know how an inexperienced director managed to helm a $70 million budget film.
I want to know how he made $70 million look like $7: perhaps he'd read the PW Anderson pamphlet Soldier: How To Make Megabucks Look Like A Channel 5 movie.
I've never seen this but I absolutely LOVE the Game Boy game. So will that make my viewing this worthwhile? Hhhmmm......
Finally got round to watching Ecks vs Sever - it was on Channel 5 and I have to say it is without doubt one of the worst films I have ever seen. The plot is nonsensical, the music is dire, the fight scenes are rubbish and as for Ray Park ! As other people have mentioned he delivers all his lines in the same disinterested monotone - there is no emotion in his delivery at all.
No wonder this didn't get a cinema release in the UK - truly awful !!!
Rats. I missed this, or reading the previous posts it seems this is a good thing. :p
I am truly stunned that the budget was $70 million. I saw it on the box and assumed it was a cheap straight to DVD production. Starship Troopers 2 was better than this!
I've never seen this but I absolutely LOVE the Game Boy game. So will that make my viewing this worthwhile? Hhhmmm......
It's a blindingly rare instance of a tie-in game being better than the film - it was cracking at the time, better than GBA Doom.
At the time I remember they said the budget was $90 million, a while later after it flopped they reduced it :) isnt it always the way :D
Rats. I missed this, or reading the previous posts it seems this is a good thing. :p
I love bad films, but EVS is just incoherent nonsense. I think it barely qualifies as a film more a random set of scenes stuck together.
Direction, editing, script, acting....it fails on all scores
Possibly worse than Dr Boll's output, and I say that lightly
I missed this on Channel 5, it's one of those films I've wanted to see for a long time but it's dreadful reputation has put me off buying this.
Has anybody else seen this and actually like it?
Also who is this Lenny Nero character?
One of the worst films I've ever seen!
http://www.plauder-smilies.de/rough/comeandgetsome.gif Ecks vs Sever Rules http://www.plauder-smilies.de/rough/2ar15smilie.gif
Wow. Wow! I was afraid I built and hyped myself up too much, first time for any movie since 1997's The Fifth Element have I ever been this excited in anticipation of anything!
Edit: Scroll to end for synopsis.
Edit II: Second viewing opinions added.
Edit III: Soundtrack and score info added.
I've waited for it for so long, I've been so happy, I go in to see it in my favorite theater where I've religiously went for the past 5 or 6 years now, and guess what, the movie starts and the sound is all messed up, the surrounds are too loud while central speakers are quiet so you can't hear most of the dialogue and special effects coming from the middle, and when there is gunfire or explosions, it sounds very weak, because guess what, damn subwoofers seem to be out too! And this is in the best, most luxurious theater in LA, which has the most private studio premieres (not counting the Mann Chinese). I guess I jinxed it by hyping it up in the other thread just prior to, or maybe that absentine supreme being though: "He's happy, I hate that, I'll screw up the sound for him", I don't know. I went out, I asked the usher to go fix it, he went, I went back to the theater, missing a bit of the movie, and I sit and don't notice any changes. I think everyone else in the theater is just too lazy or too stupid or both to realize that something is wrong. I was about to leave because I didn't want to see this movie that way, but I couldn't peel my eyes off the screen.
It draws you in and doesn't let go. Basically, the way I viewed it was like watching a DVD with Isolated Score turned on, I barely heard any dialogue or even footsteps, usual sound effects coming from the middle, and STILL loved the movie. That's a BIG credit to its components, because if you take a part of some other film away, it all falls apart, but this one can be appreciated on many levels. Maybe it wasn't a bad thing because I was able to enjoy the wonderful score and beautiful cinematography. I will go see it again in another theater to experience the rest of the movie :lol:
It seems short, it flies by very fast, and would benefit from another half an hour, even though it successfuly creates a unique mood and atmosphere. There are literally dozens and dozens of individual shots that could go into any art store frame. Action sets are amazing as well, Kaos the director opted for 70's style, more realistic, no blue screens or CGI crap, and everything happening at the same time just filmed with many cameras so that you feel more in the moment rather than filming the same 10 second action bit on different days from different angles and setups, then it doesn't feel as realistic.
In one great scene, that train stations/factory scene near the end, we see one of the wagons explode and the camera pans around from the back of the characters watching it to the front, without cuts, so we see their real reaction to it, standing relatively close. Things like that make the movie even better.
There are 4 major action sets, 2 of them very grande in scope, like the supermarket sequence where Ray Park's agent decides to capture Lucy Liu's Sever for his boss who've kidnapped his daughter. She ends up, and this is not a spoiler, to use an online gaming term, "owning" them single handedly with a picked up P90 and other weaponry. I love the shot where she drops her empty rifle and elegantly opens up her coat and takes out two extendable sticks and beats up the whole armored truck full of SWAT guys, then mounts its big ass machine gun and sprays the whole plaza and dozens of cars and cops and buildings. That was just beyond words.
http://www.plauder-smilies.de/rough/mgwhore2.gif
The cars flipping in unison is also shockingly great, I won't spoil that one. BTW, the trailer must be one of the best ever, it shows everything yet tells nothing, it very accurately represents the movie, though some scenes and dialogue were rearranged and do not appear in the movie in the same order obviously.
There is also much more to the story than what's revealed in the trailer or synopseses (sp?), it's very touching and spiritual, and characters are all flawed and haunted. I like another scene where Banderas' Ecks is looking at a wall rack full of various weapons, yet there isn't any glamorization of that, no hip music and "lets load up and kick ass" Ahhnold attitide, but a rather sad, tired look on his face, and he notices a photo of Sever with her child. All of what they're doing is just means to an end. And killing 40 or so cops does not make her a bad person or a murderer. Like in Kiefer Sutherland's directorial debut Truth or Consequences been said, "Everyone knows the rules. They're the good guys, I'm the bad guy, it's their job to catch me, it's my job not to get caught, and I'll do anything..." The agents are on the job, it was their choice and if they die it's no one's fault, it's just a mini-war going on, they're victims, nothing more.
I also liked seeing Banderas with his big bad long XM shotgun. You really don't see enough shotguns in movies. That reminds me of more cool scenes, all filmed so realistically, looking hurried and messy, but not in a bad way.
Lucy Liu's subtle facial expressions and cute half-smiles make me sooo softy, she makes up for the lack of dialogue very well, expressing her character through other means.
Besides the score, the songs used are also great, a couple of familiar ones that I noticed are BT's Smartbomb and Crystal Method's Name of the Game, but others I'll have to track down.
Soundtrack CD comes out October 1st, but I think it's just the score, I'll have to get that.
All in all, I've put a lot of expectations on Ecks vs Sever and even with one of the worst theatrical experiences I had this year it managed to deliver and more! That is incredible. I just cannot say enough good things about it. I'm sure all the other movies I see this week and month will pale in comparison.
Looks like I'll have to make a spot for it on my Top10, I think Time:code will have to go as other 9 are not that replaceable.
P.S. I didn't proof-read the above so ignore all typos and assume there are about 480 more "wows" and "perfects" and other praises of guns, Lucy Liu, and cinematography.
http://www.plauder-smilies.de/rough/fal.gif
5 stars out of 5. Will give 6 out of 5 when I see it in a proper theater.
*****
Yeah! I saw it for the second time today. It sounded SO much better with subwoofers and a proper sound setup, I enjoyed it enormously. This is pure, 100% exstasy!
Some things I wanna add:
The scene I missed last time was actually one of the best moments, as Gant the head of DIA confronts his employee that was responsible for transporting his kidnapped son, and gives him a gun to shoot himself. I won't spoil it either, but know it's great.
Ecks' DIA laptop interface is basically the screensaver that is downloadable on the official site below.
Roger Ebert's dig at Sever "killing 40 or so" cops and SWAT guys is not correct. First of all she's a perfect marksman and shoots very accurately, second, she never engages anyone or hurts anyone first. When they surround her in the shopping plaza, she only defends herself as needed. She runs between columns aiming at the cops behind cars and hurrying about but never shoots until is shot upon, and even then she returns fire to the cars and maybe a few into the hand or leg, to scare them off and put out of action. She barely really kills anyone, just self defense induced injuries and some from explosions. So, she's not a killer, she's a mother. :D
Also, action is very nicely dispersed throughout the movie with calmer, quiet moments. I still cannot understand how could 30 explosions per second in XXX could get 50% positive reviews and Ballistic be acused of repetitive, numbing explosions and get 0%?!
The action is very diverse, and there aren't any repetitions of the same explosions ten times from all angles in slow motion. In Ecks vs Sever it all happens very realistically quickly and leaves a much better feeling. I literally love every shot of this movie.
Oh and those cool clothes Sever wears, and just the whole movie's wardrobe is designed by none other than Magali Guidasci, who did costumes for Besson's Leon the Professional and Subway! No wonder they're so great. BTW, I bought a Banderas' Ecks 4x8 feet theatrical banner and it arrived today, so now I have a pair of them, for each agent, will hang on either side of the home theater, it's gona be awesome! :dork:
Synopsis:
In the deadly game of international espionage, elite, anonymous operatives wage secret wars for power, information and national security. Agendas are rarely what they seem.
Word has recently been circulating in these exclusive ranks of an ingenious new assassination device. Microscopic and injectable, it lies dormant inside its victim until activated and then kills in an instant, leaving no trace.
In the frantic race to obtain this device, only two individuals, sworn enemies, have the skill, talent and tenacity to succeed. One is an agent known only by the code name Sever (LUCY LIU). Lethally trained to be the perfect weapon, Sever is precise and relentless in her pursuit of a goal. The other is the brilliant and determined former FBI man-hunter Jeremiah Ecks (ANTONIO BANDERAS).
Once preeminent in his field, Ecks resigned from the agency when his wife was killed in an explosion that left him a guilt-ridden emotional shell of himself. Now, forced back into service by his former mentor for the most challenging assignment of his career, Ecks prepares to face off against agent Sever, his most formidable foe.
In the fierce competition for this deadly prize there can only be one winner.
But when the rules change, these two dedicated adversaries find that the one they're trying to defeat might be the only one they can trust.
Franchise Pictures presents a Chris Lee/Franchise Pictures Production in association with MHF Erste Academy Film GmbH & Co. Produktions KG: Antonio Banderas and Lucy Liu starring in the explosive action adventure Ballistic: Ecks vs. Sever. Directed by Kaos from a screenplay by Alan McElroy, the film is produced by Elie Samaha, Chris Lee and Kaos, and also stars Gregg Henry, Ray Park, Talisa Soto and Miguel Sandoval. Andrew Stevens, Tarak Ben Ammar, Tracee Stanley and Oliver Hengst are the executive producers. Doug Higgins is the production designer; Julio Macat, A.S.C., is the director of photography; Jay Cassidy, A.C.E. and Caroline Ross are the editors. Music is by Don Davis, and Michael Lloyd serves as music supervisor. Magali Guidasci is the costume designer.
Ballistic: Ecks vs. Sever will be distributed domestically by Warner Bros. Pictures, an AOL Time Warner Company. This film has been rated R by the MPAA for "strong violence."
www.ecksvssever.com
Check out the great official site for lots of textual information and photos, screensavers for either agent, etc. It really helps if you read character backgrounds before seeing the movie. Production notes contain spoilers.
Soundtrack and score
[http://members.lycos.co.uk/brdeckard/ballistic.jpg
After watching the movie 3 times now and getting the official soundtrack from Varese, I expected, prior to knowing the track listing, that it'll be mostly score like usually from that music company, but it's actually a compilation of songs featured in the movie. It was a pleasant surprise as I wanted some tracks from the film that I couldn't find elsewhere, like Parrot's Time that plays when Ecks and Sever drive in the dusk, and Hunter's Go that plays during the final massacre, but they put the wrong remix of BT's Smartbomb, not the one featured in the movie, which was the original version, thankfully I had it elsewhere and put it on my custom MD soundtrack. Still, lots and lots of music I heard in the movie weren't on the soundtrack that came out October 1st, which was BTW the first CD I actually bought in over a year, last one being another soundtrack to The Center of the World.
Thing is, the original score by Don Davis is so masterfuly intergrated and mixed in with the songs that you're really not sure where there is a song or the score playing, and I wished for a second soundtrack to be released, and there you go, Varese Sarabande woke up and did what they grew popular on, releasing that original score on October 29th:
BALLISTIC: ECKS VS. SEVER
Original Motion Picture Score
Music Composed by Don Davis
The perfect companion piece to the techno-electronica soundtrack CD, the rhythmic and propulsive score for BALLISTIC is now available and features over 68 minutes of Don Davis' absolutely thrilling score.
Warner Bros. picture opens September 20.
Catalog #: 302 066 420 2
Release Date: 10/29/02
Awesome! 68 minutes of that great score, I'll be in heaven once again and hope the movie is still in some theater by the time I get my hands on it.
http://www.varesesarabande.com/details.asp?pid=302-066-413-2
Answers:
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
I just cannot say enough good things about it.
:confused: THAT'S an understatement!
Lenny, you mentioned EVERYTHING about the film EXCEPT what it was about :p
Nice review though (except for the no-synopsis thing)
Answers:
Well, my first view of this film was based on what I read on the website, I was going to mark it down as another OTT [mediocre] action film.
BUT, you have really whetted my appetite with that review. I must check out the trailer now.
Cheers fella, :thumbs:
Bionk!
Answers:
Originally posted by Tiffany Bradford
Lenny, you mentioned EVERYTHING about the film EXCEPT what it was about :p
Nice review though (except for the no-synopsis thing)
Roger that, edited for addition of synopsis. :D
Answers:
Its worth pointing out that rotton tomatoes have currently got this film ranked as 40 reviews all of which are bad giving the film a 100% rotten rating. Quite an achievement !. :D
Also, some of Lennys all time favourite films include Resident Evil & Final Fantasy. :lol: ;)
Still, anything that has Banderas cocking his over sized pistol gets my vote. :D
Answers:
Originally posted by Jimmyboy
Its worth pointing out that rotton tomatoes have currently got this film ranked as 40 reviews all of which are bad giving the film a 100% rotten rating. Quite an achievement !. :D
Also, some of Lennys all time favourite films include Resident Evil & Final Fantasy
Which is exactly the demographic product like this is manufactured for.
BTW - Now up to 62 out of 62 negative reviews.
What’s the betting we see this on DVD within four months?
Answers:
Originally posted by Jimmyboy
Also, some of Lennys all time favourite films include Resident Evil & Final Fantasy. :lol: ;)
You bet, and what wonderful pictures those are!
Originally posted by jonathan.e
Which is exactly the demographic product like this is manufactured for.
BTW - Now up to 62 out of 62 negative reviews.
What’s the betting we see this on DVD within four months?
Kaos is in his 20s, he knows his stuff, he delivered. I'll keep an eye out for his next project, just like with Paul WS Anderson now. :D
Oh and sooner we get the DVD the less $10 bills I spend on movie tickets meanwhile.
Watched it properly the second time today, added some things in the original post.
Answers:
This movie sucked. Am very glad it was a free preview. Hands down the worst script I have seen in ages. The plot is so stupidly unbelievable. The characters are morons. But the special effects are nice. They are the only thing worth seeing.
Stay faaaaar away from this one unless you just want to see stuff being destroyed and don't care about a plot.
Answers:
Originally posted by IndyMode
But the special effects are nice. They are the only thing worth seeing.
I take it that Lucy Liu doesn't cut the mustard for you, then?:norty:
Answers:
Originally posted by nicklock
I take it that Lucy Liu doesn't cut the mustard for you, then?:norty:
No, but Antonio Bandaras ain't bad:norty:
Answers:
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
Looks like I'll have to make a spot for it on my Top10, I think Time:code will have to go as other 9 are not that replaceable.
I think I'd have nightmares if I ever saw your Top 10 list:D
Answers:
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
Looks like I'll have to make a spot for it on my Top10, I think Time:code will have to go as other 9 are not that replaceable.
You're kidding...right?
Originally posted by nc
I think I'd have nightmares if I ever saw your Top 10 list:D
Let the nightmares begin...:D :nuts:
Lenny's Top Ten
Blade Runner
ExistenZ
Eye of the Beholder
Fifth Element, The
Hurlyburly
Leon: The Professional
Resident Evil
Strange Days
Tailor of Panama, The
Timecode (2000)
Answers:
Originally posted by Tiffany Bradford
Lenny's Top Ten
ExistenZ
Ohhh, I saw that the other day - one of the freakiest movies I have seen - V. strange... Strange Days rocks tho :D
Answers:
Originally posted by Tiffany Bradford
You're kidding...right?
Let the nightmares begin...:D :nuts:
Lenny's Top Ten
Blade Runner
ExistenZ
Eye of the Beholder
Fifth Element, The
Hurlyburly
Leon: The Professional
Resident Evil
Strange Days
Tailor of Panama, The
Timecode (2000)
No I'm not kidding, and currently rearranging my whole collection, breaking down the Movies section in about 15 categories, and Time:code won't get lost as I've created a new Top 11-20 section where it'll go along with Swordfish, Fight Club and some others. :D
What's wrong with my Top 1-10?! I think it's a very respectable list of movies, oh and they're in alphabetical order, I'd kill myself before I'd be able to decide which goes where and in what order.
Answers:
Originally posted by IndyMode
Ohhh, I saw that the other day - one of the freakiest movies I have seen - V. strange... Strange Days rocks tho :D
eXistenZ was actually quite good - a very original (albeit hard-to-follow-at-times story), great acting and cool special effects.
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
What's wrong with my Top 1-10?! I think it's a very respectable list of movies
With the exception of three of the films, it is a VERY good list! :)
Answers:
Originally posted by Tiffany Bradford
eXistenZ was actually quite good - a very original (albeit hard-to-follow-at-times story), great acting and cool special effects.
With the exception of three of the films, it is a VERY good list! :)
Thanks for your support fellow movie fanatic :D Though I've added Swordfish there now, and my 11-20 must really be scaaaary :lol:
What happened to your msg board status, guest? Not registered yet? Hmm.
P.S. I've added the original score and soundtrack info above.
Answers:
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
What happened to your msg board status, guest? Not registered yet? Hmm.
Has Tiffany been deleted or something? :confused:
~~stu
Answers:
Nice review Lenny! :thumbs:
I don't think this one will win any oscars but it will allow me to turn off my brain and enjoy some cool looking violence for 90 minutes.
Answers:
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
What happened to your msg board status, guest? Not registered yet? Hmm.
I'm still here...like I would leave you Lenny :rolleyes: :D
Answers:
Great Acting! Great Action! Nice Score but still a below average action film.
The plot was weak ... you dont know whats happening till near the end of the film, so the first hour is just clueless action scenes.
Its a lot better then xXx (Dance Musics better then Rammstein, and Banderas better then Diesel!!) but still only worth a rent at best IMO :(
Answers:
Better or worse or the same as Charlies Angels?
:)
Answers:
Originally posted by Jez
Better or worse or the same as Charlies Angels?
:)
Well I personally hated Charlies Angels and would say Ecks Vs Sever was 10 times better than that rubbish. I just never liked Charlies Angels at all which I was surprised at - considering the tottie in it! I am actually surprised at the slagging Ecks... has gotten, sure it isn't anything special and for me it is a guilty pleasure but there are some nice action scenes in it which should give your system a workout :D :p
Even if you dont like Ecks... it will be easy to get rid of the dvd as i am sure there are plenty of people on the classifieds who want to give it a once over :)
Answers:
Originally posted by Jez
Better or worse or the same as Charlies Angels?
:)
better ... but thats not saying much! :D
Answers:
Thats good cause i quite enjoyed angels so might give this one a look anyone wonna sell it to me?:)
Happy xmas;)
Answers:
It's alive! This thread is still alive and I've already deleted the pics from my original post off the server.
You can't compare Ballistic with Charlie's Angels, because Angels is very campy and a comedy/parody, but Ecks vs Sever rightfuly takes itself very seriously, like Reign of Fire, I admire that in a movie.
Answers:
:notworthy Lenny for having "Eye of the beholder" in your Top 10!
Did you know the UK R2 version is a longer cut than the US version? especially good is the final scene - He's on the bike, she's in the car - in slow motion! that you only see a 'moment' of in the US trailer, way more moving. Oh, but I should tell u that the UK version is 'opened out' from 2.35:1 to 16:9. But if you've looked at the 4:3 version on side 2 of the US release you'll know it's open-matte so the composition isn't greatly affected.
now, "Ballistic" - to order or not to order...?
Answers:
Been reading Reviews for Ecks vs severall round the net and the general consensus is it's a bag of *****.. So either you'ved got bad taste in movies or 95% of the population is wrong ;)
Not seen it myself so I can't judge..
Thought Resident Evil was ok - an average film if there was one.. Nothing in the league of my Top 10:-
Minority Report, LOTR:FOTR, Pulp fiction, Reservoir Dogs, Robocop, Total recall, Dog Soldiers, Fight club, Terminator 2, One Flew over the cuckoo's nest
Answers:
I've gotta admit that I bought this recently (mainly on the strength of Lenny's review:eek: ) hoping that it would be one of those movies that are soooo bad they're actually good:)
Really enjoyed it!! If you like trashy action movies (think Commando, Roadhouse and Cobra) you can add this one to your list:)
Just pure entertainment. (don't listen to the reviews!!)
Lenny Nero:notworthy
Answers:
I'll be buying it anyway.. If it is just a mindless action flick then you just need to look at my Top 10 to know what i like :)
Reviews though have suggested it is crap but like you say reviews are personal opinions..
Answers:
After reading Lenny's review, I downloaded the trailer and thought it looked great. I like a bit of mindless action now and again, and this looks like a great bit of entertainment.
Once again, I have ordered a film solely based on peoples opinions from these forums. Without being a member of this forum, I would have missed out on such classics as Brotherhood of the Wolf and Battle Royale.
Looking through Lenny's top 10 makes for interesting reading. I love Blade Runner, Fifth Element, Strange Days and Resident Evil, so based on the fact that I like more than half of his top ten, I am now going to have track down The Tailor of Panama, HurlyBurly and Eye Of The Beholder.
Ray
Answers:
Originally posted by Richie
:notworthy Lenny for having "Eye of the beholder" in your Top 10!
Did you know the UK R2 version is a longer cut than the US version? especially good is the final scene - He's on the bike, she's in the car - in slow motion! that you only see a 'moment' of in the US trailer, way more moving. Oh, but I should tell u that the UK version is 'opened out' from 2.35:1 to 16:9. But if you've looked at the 4:3 version on side 2 of the US release you'll know it's open-matte so the composition isn't greatly affected.
Yeah I knew it was open matte, but I still prefer the original ratio, because you do miss bit on the sides with the 4:3 version, but if it's just opened up a little to 1.78:1 then it's ok. I also thought that only that ending scene is added back in where they reach for each other. Is there anything else inserted besides that? Maybe there is a detailed comparison somewhere online? I'd appreciate that!
Originally posted by Jon B
Really enjoyed it!!
Just pure entertainment. (don't listen to the reviews!!)
Lenny Nero:notworthy
Good for us! :thumbs:
Originally posted by billybuttons
Looking through Lenny's top 10 makes for interesting reading. I love Blade Runner, Fifth Element, Strange Days and Resident Evil, so based on the fact that I like more than half of his top ten, I am now going to have track down The Tailor of Panama, HurlyBurly and Eye Of The Beholder.
Ray
Nothing would make me more happy than another person discovering those overlooked movies. There isn't much action or "stuff blowin' up reeeel good" in those 3 though, they're all character studies, Hurlyburly especially was originally an off-broadway play, so it all takes place in one house, and Tailor of Panama is what Bond should be like.
Answers:
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
Re: "Eye of the beholder"
I also thought that only that ending scene is added back in where they reach for each other. Is there anything else inserted besides that? Maybe there is a detailed comparison somewhere online? I'd appreciate that!
yes there is more!
imdb link (http://us.imdb.com/AlternateVersions?0120662)
the UK dvd has more than listed including much more to the watery assassination scene on the train! At some point I'll do a proper comparrison!
once upon a time I had a thread about the differences on here but I guess it's long gone as I can't find it in 'search'.
Answers:
Alright, that's it, I'm getting a third DVD of this movie, thanks a lot! :p
But it's just J5.99, plus I meant to pick up a couple of others, like Folks!
Answers:
Nothing would make me more happy than another person discovering those overlooked movies
what not even getting to Bone Nina Nyers :D
Answers:
Originally posted by Nimak
what not even getting to Bone Nina Nyers :D
That's like on the whole other level, beyond comparison to anything. Plus she's not like 100s of those models or bimbos who you just like sexualy and that's it. I didn't notice Nina Myers at first, only started liking her more and more while getting to know her character better, then came all those other feelings :norty: That's real "love". If it's just "boning" then you're gona get tired of that person after a couple of days, right? :D
Answers:
Originally posted by Lenny Nero
That's like on the whole other level, beyond comparison to anything. Plus she's not like 100s of those models or bimbos who you just like sexualy and that's it. I didn't notice Nina Myers at first, only started liking her more and more while getting to know her character better, then came all those other feelings :norty: That's real "love". If it's just "boning" then you're gona get tired of that person after a couple of days, right? :D
Tough luck lenny, the guy playing George Mason - Xander Berkeley is getting married to Sarah Clarke so the only boning being done will be by him! :D :lol:
Answers:
Originally posted by mr_woo
Tough luck lenny, the guy playing George Mason - Xander Berkeley is getting married to Sarah Clarke so the only boning being done will be by him! :D :lol:
I know :( I'm talking theoretically and generally anyway. Plus I like Xander Berkeley, so good for him :thumbs:
Answers:
LOL:D
Depends on the Girl i'm boning :norty:
Answers:
Back on topic.
Just watched it and basically it's crap.
What a waste of a good license and two great stars.
The first half of the film is dire and has the feel of a cheap Hong Kong movie (in fact this film would probably have been better if it starred Chow Yun Fat and was made in HK). The second half was better with both action and character development but never reached any level approaching good.
Lucy Liu is a top actress but she was totally wasted here.
Dunno who the director was - but as soon as I saw that he had one of these single word names I knew we were in trouble. :(
Ono scores it 4 out of 10.
Answers:
I liked it, it's better than XXX
I would give it 8.5/10
I agree with you about Nina Myers and not noticing her straight away
It was the same with Gillian Anderson when X-files first started
Answers:
Well Lenny, your enthusiasm has a lot to answer for young fella. I got this, as many have here, based on your review. Now I like trashy action as much as the next man (see the Deep Blue Sea thread) but I have to say that Ballistic: Ecks vs Sever is the, repeat, the worst film I have ever actually paid money to own on disc - an accolade held until recently by Chill Factor.
And Ray Park :eek: What the hell was that all about? He made Jason Stratham look like Sir John Guilgud!!!!!!!!! Now I really want to see the Phantom Menace with Park's original voice :D
Truly, truly dreadful!
Answers:
Originally posted by Dear Mr Echo
He made Jason Stratham look like Sir John Guilgud!!!!!!!!! :lol:
Yeah, he woz shockin'! & I gotta agree, as much as I luv tacky, brain-dead action pics, this movie SUCKED!!
Answers:
Originally posted by Dear Mr Echo
And Ray Park :eek: What the hell was that all about? He made Jason Stratham look like Sir John Guilgud!!!!!!!!! Now I really want to see the Phantom Menace with Park's original voice :D
Truly, truly dreadful!
I've just seen this movie (mediocre on all counts), but Ray Park really does take the biscuit.
Did he think he was in a school play or something?
He didn't get much to work with in the script, but man alive he stank the place out. :lol:
The only thing that kept me watching was waiting for him to get his ass whupped.
Answers:
Unquestionably the worst movie i've seen in a while - in fact I have absolutely nothing good to say about it at all. The score was an aural assault, the acting a travesty, the plot non-existent and action was tacky, OTT and uninspired. I would've cited this as one of the worst movies ive ever seen but fortunately for Mr. Kaosayananda I'd seen 'Freddy God Fingered' first! Wish I'd gone to that tupperware party instead....
Answers:
Originally posted by billybuttons
After reading Lenny's review, I downloaded the trailer and thought it looked great. I like a bit of mindless action now and again, and this looks like a great bit of entertainment.
Once again, I have ordered a film solely based on peoples opinions from these forums. Without being a member of this forum, I would have missed out on such classics as Brotherhood of the Wolf and Battle Royale.
Looking through Lenny's top 10 makes for interesting reading. I love Blade Runner, Fifth Element, Strange Days and Resident Evil, so based on the fact that I like more than half of his top ten, I am now going to have track down The Tailor of Panama, HurlyBurly and Eye Of The Beholder.
Ray
So you soley rely on this site for film recommendations?:oh-hum:
Answers:
Finally got round to watching Ecks vs Sever - it was on Channel 5 and I have to say it is without doubt one of the worst films I have ever seen. The plot is nonsensical, the music is dire, the fight scenes are rubbish and as for Ray Park ! As other people have mentioned he delivers all his lines in the same disinterested monotone - there is no emotion in his delivery at all.
No wonder this didn't get a cinema release in the UK - truly awful !!!
Answers:
Has one of those great "how the hell did they do that??!!" moments in the film though, which always redeems the (fairly average, IMO) film for me.
The SWAT guy gets shot and falls off a really tall building in slow-motion, crashing onto a car below.... in one take. Incredible scene.
Answers:
I wonder what happened to Lenny Nero. He was a character.
Answers:
I wonder what happened to "Kaos" - he was utter crap.
I've just checked imdb and someone's actually let him near a camera again. These fools, like bourgeois capitalist despots, learn nothing from history.
Answers:
Only in Thailand though. Not a real film :)
Answers:
I wonder what happened to "Kaos" - he was utter crap.
I've just checked imdb and someone's actually let him near a camera again. These fools, like bourgeois capitalist despots, learn nothing from history.
I want to know how an inexperienced director managed to helm a $70 million budget film.
Answers:
Has one of those great "how the hell did they do that??!!" moments in the film though, which always redeems the (fairly average, IMO) film for me.
The SWAT guy gets shot and falls off a really tall building in slow-motion, crashing onto a car below.... in one take. Incredible scene.
Not hard :) a desender rig at a guess, thats why it looked so bad as it was desended so slooww it looked fake, no senseof speed at all sadly.
Bad film from me too :) poo in fact.
But nice stick fight bit if I remember and Talisa Soto was hot.
Answers:
I want to know how an inexperienced director managed to helm a $70 million budget film.
I want to know how he made $70 million look like $7: perhaps he'd read the PW Anderson pamphlet Soldier: How To Make Megabucks Look Like A Channel 5 movie.
Answers:
I've never seen this but I absolutely LOVE the Game Boy game. So will that make my viewing this worthwhile? Hhhmmm......
Answers:
Finally got round to watching Ecks vs Sever - it was on Channel 5 and I have to say it is without doubt one of the worst films I have ever seen. The plot is nonsensical, the music is dire, the fight scenes are rubbish and as for Ray Park ! As other people have mentioned he delivers all his lines in the same disinterested monotone - there is no emotion in his delivery at all.
No wonder this didn't get a cinema release in the UK - truly awful !!!
Rats. I missed this, or reading the previous posts it seems this is a good thing. :p
Answers:
I am truly stunned that the budget was $70 million. I saw it on the box and assumed it was a cheap straight to DVD production. Starship Troopers 2 was better than this!
Answers:
I've never seen this but I absolutely LOVE the Game Boy game. So will that make my viewing this worthwhile? Hhhmmm......
It's a blindingly rare instance of a tie-in game being better than the film - it was cracking at the time, better than GBA Doom.
Answers:
At the time I remember they said the budget was $90 million, a while later after it flopped they reduced it :) isnt it always the way :D
Answers:
Rats. I missed this, or reading the previous posts it seems this is a good thing. :p
I love bad films, but EVS is just incoherent nonsense. I think it barely qualifies as a film more a random set of scenes stuck together.
Direction, editing, script, acting....it fails on all scores
Possibly worse than Dr Boll's output, and I say that lightly
Answers:
I missed this on Channel 5, it's one of those films I've wanted to see for a long time but it's dreadful reputation has put me off buying this.
Has anybody else seen this and actually like it?
Also who is this Lenny Nero character?
Answers:
One of the worst films I've ever seen!
1 2