Seems like we're getting back on an even keel with the rating viewings now. Quite liking the new pag...
Seems like we're getting back on an even keel with the rating viewings now. Quite liking the new pages in a way. Thanks for all your rates.
Member since:07.11.2005
Reviews:461
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A film only review:
I have been meaning to watch this for a while, but the thought of a story about a man who is stuck in an airport for days on end didn't really appeal to me. Having now watched it, I urge any of you under the same impression to give it a go. It's light-hearted and funny, with some marvellous acting and a good collection of subplots that keep it going.
Viktor Navorski is visiting the US from his Eastern European country. While in the air, there was a revolution, and by the time he lands, his country is not internationally recognised. This is how we are introduced to the film, as the poor guy is grilled by Frank Dixon (Stanley Tucci), in charge of Homeland Security for JFK Airport, despite not understanding a word of English.
Dixon explains that they can't let him in, nor can they send him home, so he must stay in the international lounge until it is all sorted. Viktor then sets about making the place his home, despite Dixon waiting for the chance to deport him if he breaks international laws by trying to escape through the double doors and into New York City.
While this is the main plot, it would flop on its own, and be boring. There are subplots galore, with the various airport staff, their romances, lifelong wishes and daily routines all playing a part in this quirky and enjoyable film. Hanks is fantastic as Viktor, entirely convincing and full of charisma and innocence. Catherine Zeta Jones plays the trolley dolly who whistles in and out of Viktor's life every time she comes through, and Tucci is entertaining as the fast talking official who just wants Viktor gone! The remainder of the cast give strong performances, with everything being a little bit tongue in cheek and relaxed.
If I were to have a criticism, it would the realistic nature of the film. Most of the events just wouldn't happen, and Viktor learns the language quicker than anyone has ever learnt any language. Security is rather lax in places, and the staff seem to go anywhere and do anything whenever and wherever they want, without any restrictions. In short, the whole place would be open to smuggling and corruption on a daily basis were this actually the setup. The real deal is a lot stricter.
I really enjoyed watching this. It comes in at around the 2 hour mark, and is full of entertainment. The gentle pace of the music adds to the atmosphere, and the enjoyment factor is heightened by the different subplots that Viktor becomes involved in. Okay, it's not an astounding film that will knock you off your socks, but it's well constructed, well acted, and very enjoyable. I recommend you give it a go.
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Comedy - Director: Tony Dow - Original Language: English - Classification: 12 years and over - Starring: John Challis, David Jason, Nicholas Lyndhurst, Tessa Peake-Jones, Gwyneth Strong
Comedy - Original Language: English - Classification: 12 years and over - Starring: Tessa Peake-Jones, Buster Merryfield, David Jason, Nicholas Lyndhurst
Like an airport running at peak efficiency,The Terminalglides on the consummate skills of ... more
its director and star. Having refined their collaborative chemistry onSaving Private RyanandCatch Me if You Can, StevenSpielberg and Tom Hanks mesh like the preci...
Postage & Packaging: £1.21 Availability: Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days...
![The Terminal [DVD] [2004] [Region 1] [US Import] [NTSC]](http://picnicb.ciao.com/uk/75099703.jpg "The Terminal [DVD] [2004] [Region 1] [US Import] [NTSC]")
![The Terminal [DVD] [2004]](http://picnicb.ciao.com/uk/78010471.jpg "The Terminal [DVD] [2004]")
Sep 20th, 2009
very helpful by (100%):
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