Hard Rain 1998 * 1/2 Stars

Director: Mikael Salomon
Year: 1998
Rated R
Rating: * 1/2 Stars
Cast: Christian Slater, Morgan Freeman, Minnie Driver, Randy Quaid

I never thought Morgan Freeman would do a movie just for a paycheck but I guess even famous rich actors have to pay their bills just like us regular folk. Hard Rain is a robbery movie that takes place in a small town during a massive flood. The plot goes all over the place with unnecessary twists and turns. You really get the feeling that "Rain" just ran out of steam and the writers made up stuff up as it went along. You also really feel sorry for the actors especially Freeman. To make matters worse, Oscar nominee Minnie Driver shows up a little later with a thankless role. Hard Rain was a January release back in 1998. Critics refer to these types of films as "January Junk." This critic just feels that movies like Hard Rain are "wet" behind the ears. Thumbs down.

Written by Jesse Burleson

The Thin Red Line 1998 * * * 1/2 Stars

Director: Terrence Malick
Year: 1998
Rated: R
Rating: * * * 1/2 stars
Cast: Sean Penn, John C. Reilly, John Travolta

Director Terrence Malick came out of a mini retirement (his previous films were Badlands in 1973 and Days of Heaven in 1978) to make this original and genuinely cerebral World War II film based on the infamous battle of Guadalcanal. A lot of big name actors with small parts contribute to his Ali-like return to the film making ring. The result is a powerful movie that stimulates the brain and pulls at the heart. The unique aspect of The Thin Red Line is in the form of narration that goes with almost every character's thoughts. Add Hans Zimmer's legendary musical score and Malick's keen eye for camera movement and you get something special. It's a film with images that stay with you long after it's over. Next to Apocalypse Now (1979) and Platoon (1986), it's tops on my list of great war films. 

Written by Jesse Burleson