Marta Barber

The film has a rather charming way of convincing you that there are times to shrug off the caviar and champagne and go for a fulfilling bowl of spaghetti.

Captures the essence of the period -- an intriguing, backward era in Spain -- but without the emotional impact that such a film requires.

The events in this film take place in the 1980s. Let's hope working conditions in Japan have "westernized."

Has an elegant feel, with beautiful shots on the beach and engaging camera work. If only Philip Jayson Lasker's writing could match that.

The film's concept is so absurd and Hamer goes about developing it with such a regimented structure that you have to believe that the filmmaker is poking fun at himself and the world he knows well.

There are few moments when you're not totally absorbed by the film.

Results in a weightless film. Worse still, McElwee's languid tone makes his journey lack conviction.

One true gem is Daniela Piepszyk, Mauro's teen neighbor, who is a fireball and the leader of the neighborhood gang of boys. You can't take your eyes off her.

Not only does the fragmented delivery become trying, but also the behind-the-camera dialogue and city shots with heavy Parisian traffic numb the senses. And as beautiful as it looks, there's really nothing new coming out of the lens of the revered Godard.

Junge had come to terms with her past. And even if you don't come to terms with her life, it's worthwhile knowing about it.

Much like the good westerns, Coastlines keeps you entertained throughout its two hours, which says a lot about Nunez's storytelling.

Simplicity is ever so eloquent in a film that despite a questionable last scene is outstanding enough that even the credits deserve attention. [06 Feb 1998, p.8G]

May not be everyone's favored bloom in the garden, but it is still a fine work on film.

A fascinating look at events mostly unknown to outsiders.

Light as the film may be, My Wife Is An Actress is not devoid of charm. It's like a summer book: quick, enjoyable and, mostly, easily forgotten.

Satire is at the core of Mafioso, whether in establishing the by-now-stereotypical images of Sicilian peasants or the gripping arms of the Mafia.

The stories touch our sensibilities, but the documentary never sugarcoats the childrens' experiences.

Not for those with limited attention spans, though there's never a dull moment.

Secret of this 'Ballot' lies in its humor, charm and universality.

Innocence is a gentle love story, one that touches on an issue of great sensitivity -- sexuality in old age.

Don't try to figure Emilia's family out. Just sit back and let this family scrapbook move along.