The Bounty (1984)

First off, I need to say that The Bounty has an incredible cast. With Anthony Hopkins, Mel Gibson, Daniel Day-Lewis, Laurence Olivier and Liam Neeson it goes without saying that this movie was very well acted. This film was based on the book Captain Bligh and Mr. Christian and according to Wikipedia this is the fifth time this story was made into a movie. Sort of makes me think I should read the book.

Anyhow, this movie is about an English ship on it's way to Tahiti and once they get there and become infatuated with all the half-naked women a number of the men understandably aren't eager to leave. Captain Bligh (Hopkins) has to crack down pretty hard to get everyone back in line and Mr. Christian (Gibson) leads a mutiny and hardship ensues.

I thought this movie was good, and Hopkins especially gives an amazing performance. The plot rocks back and forth as much as the ship does and I could never quite figure out if I sympathized with the Captain or the crew until the very end. One thing I was certain of though is that I never could have made it as a sailor during the glory days of the British Empire. What a tough line of work that was. If you you like period pieces and your looking for a good movie with great acting give The Bounty a try.

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The Standard 5:

Why is it in your queue? It had a loaded cast.

Is it artsy? No, just a good period piece.

Best thing about the movie? If you're a straight male, all the topless natives. If you're anyone else the performance by Hopkins.

What mood should I be in to watch this movie? In the mood for a good adventure romp.

What rating did you give it on Netflix? 4 Stars. 

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Marathon Man (1976)

Laurence Olivier is brilliant in this movie as an undercover Nazi in America to retrieve his stash of diamonds. I will never ever be able to have a German dentist because of this movie. "Is it safe?" has to be one of the creepiest lines ever used in a movie and Dustin Hoffman is very convincing as a panicked and terrorized college student in way over his head. All the international intrigue adds a nice touch to this movie as well.

The movie does start off a bit slow but make sure you stick with it. Over time the film slowly builds to a fever pitch and you end up on the edge of your seat. Add this one to your queue, it's got brilliant acting, an interesting plot and just enough suspense to keep you guessing. And really, can you think of a scarier villain than a Nazi dentist?

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This movie will stop streaming on 1/1/2011.

The Standard 5:

Why is it in your queue? People have told me it was a good movie, they were right.

Is it artsy? No.

Best thing about the movie? Is it safe?

What mood should I be in to watch this movie? A suspenseful one.

What rating did you give it on Netflix? 4 Stars. 

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