The Conversation

The Conversation; After Hackman’s roles in early 70s action films, his buttoned down, subdued & introspective turn in this Coppola helmed examination of mental spirals of conspiracy and detachment, demonstrates how talented he was in even less flashy roles. A slow burn that is haunting to watch; A-

The French Connection

The French Connection; In addition to the highly regarded car chase, there’s foot chases, shakedowns, stakeouts and shoot outs; a constant adrenaline rush buoyed by kinetic acting and gritty filmmaking. A treasure from a special decade of cinema that hits just as hard today; A+

The Chamber

Directed by:  James Foley
Starring:  Chris O'Donnell, Gene Hackman, Faye Dunaway, Robert Prosky
Running Time:  1h 51min

John Grisham's lawyer books turned movies have officially become tiresome.  Now I could have said this back when The Pelican Brief was first released but now it can't be denied.  Grisham serves us yet another tale involving a young lawyer against all odds, fighting for justice, with the aid of a nice female helper.  Should he be working for his client?  Will he beat the odds?  WHO CARES?  There wasn't a single character in this movie that was worth caring for or even worth watching.  O'Donnell is extremely stiff as he delivers his lines in the same tone, regardless of emotion.  His handling of the big Grisham monologue is empty.  Hackman is reduced to looking sad and then yelling.  It's a shame that Grisham's films attract such great talent and hard-earned $$$.

Grade: D