Film Forum

Episode Recap

Episode 7

10/28/03

Films Reviewed: Intolerable Cruelty and The School of Rock

Commentary: The ban on screener videos/DVDs by the MPAA for award consideration

Featurette: the music video from The School of Rock

Regarding: Intolerable Cruelty

Matt: I have been spoiled by the Coen brothers.  This film, which is not from an original screenplay, has its wonderful moments but it never gels together.  Plus, it has more false endings than I can count.  But the performances are pretty good.  Two stars.

Aron: I have to disagree with Matt.  I found no false endings.  The performances were all first rate and the story moved along nicely.  Billy Bob Thornton is always a good presence.  Three stars.

Average Rating: **1/2 (out of four)

Regarding: The School of Rock

Aron: What a fun movie!  Jack Black is terrific as the shlub who discovers himself as a sub in a prep school.  Plus the original music is very good as well.  I loved it!  Four stars!

Matt: I loved it, too.  The children in this film are all genuine musicians and the story, while not entirely plausible, is very heartwarming without being sappy.  The original song performed should be nominated for an Oscar.  Four headbangs!

Average Rating: **** (out of four)

Commentary: Jack Valenti's screener ban and why it's not a good idea.  Can independent film fairly compete when their product is not as widely distributed?  Are the members of AMPAS really that lazy?  Is banning screeners really going to stop piracy?  Despite the fact that the MPAA is now allowing VHS screeners for Academy members only, this may not be fair play.  To be played out during awards season.

Featurette: The music video from The School of Rock.  Again, we do predict that the song featured will receive an Oscar nod.