HiFi’s Film Reviews

353 Films have been rated or reviewed by HiFi.

Wire, The - Season 1 (TV Series) (2002): The show moves forward slowly on a broad front but accumulates an overwhelming power. The sheer scope is incredible – so many characters (of such complexity), so many storylines. Worthy of close attention, and second to none.
From Here to Eternity (1953): A bit flat, but the acting\'s the thing: Casting the female leads against type works for Kerr, but I don\'t think Reed\'s anyone\'s idea of a Taxi–dancer; Lancaster\'s wonderfully authoritative; Clift\'s method–stuff is simply mesmerising.
Bunny and the Bull (2009): Feels like a short expanded to feature length and some of the comedic business is a bit flat, but overall this is charming, funny and even quite moving. Awe–inspiring production design on what must surely have been a zero budget.
They Who Dare (1953): Acres of meandering tedium, relieved only by Bogarde nutting off (probably whilst thinking of tearing his agent a new one). However, the brave commandos do succeed in bravely blowing up some model aeroplanes...unspeakable tosh.
Net, The (1995): Most enjoyable in the first half, it then descends into sub–Hitchcock (actually sub–sub–Hitchcock: sub–De Palma!) territory with extra layers of credulity–straining internet gubbins. Dennis Miller\'s a hoot, though.
While You Were Sleeping (1995): It\'s very saccharine, but the old–hand supporting players are fun to watch and you can see why Bullock ruled the screen as queen of this sort of thing – she\'s completely endearing.
Sapphire and Steel (TV Series) (1979- 1982): Pretty silly, tons of exposition, totally cardboard sets and McCallum has a poker up his...but its real strength is the way it engages your imagination as an active participant. Just something you don\'t often get on TV nowadays...; DVD ~~$40~~ $30
Harsh Realm (TV Series) (1999-2000): Nicely made, but ignores intriguing premise\'s potential, rapidly becoming a \'this week our heroes...\' show. Perks up when O\'Quinn or Hayward appear, but it needed Joss Whedon\'s flair to get the best out of it, and Carter\'s not that guy.
Drive (2011): Grips immediately, beautiful–looking, idiosyncratic use of music. However, the characters are all ciphers and the lone, laconic Samurai thing\'s been done to death, no? Kind of cinematic Nouvelle Cuisine.; DVD ~~$19.95~~ $14.95
Red Dragon (2002): No, sorry, despite having the same writer this doesn\'t hold its own against \'Silence of the Lambs\' – it\'s a hollow, ham–fisted embarrassment. Avoid this, read the book.

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HiFi’s Film Reviews