American History X vs.
Mississippi MasalaI have to say I'm a bit disappointed at this matchup. I was hoping for an excruciatingly close 15 round nail biter, but this was an early round Knock-Out.
In the Red Corner wearing the Black & White trunks we have
American History X. It has going for it...
Career Best performances from Edward Norton, Edward Furlong and Fariuza Balk. (The last 2 aren't as big a deal, but it's worth mentioning anyways.)
Blistering direction by Tony Kaye, who pulls heightened drama from even the most preachy scenes.
Award-worthy cinematography (again from Mr. Kaye.)
A murder scene you won't soon forget. The sound of teeth on pavement may cause permanent chills. If that doesn't, Norton's reaction after doing the deed probably will.
After the opening foreshadowing, the film takes a little time to get it's motor running, but before long, it's just one great dramatic scene after another. This is one of the most exciting dramas of recent years. If you like your drama hot-button exciting,
X gonna give it to ya'.
And if you like your drama uninteresting, meandering and more realistic approach...I still couldn't recommend
Mississippi Masala. It has...
Another cool, relaxed performance by Denzel Washington.
Denzel's actually bested by Roshan Seth as Mina’s dad. He has a great authenticity about him that I liked.
Director Mira Nair's ability to steep her film in a rich atmosphere of culture.
What it doesn't have is a compelling storyline, going instead with about 3 stories that generated little interest. In fact, I had to look up Round 1, to see how this film survived. Here's what I found.
I’m still going to let Mississippi Masala go through. The reason I’m doing that is because Aladdin will not win the competition; it just won’t. Neither will Mississippi Masala. However, I want to read someone else’s take on it because I can see where someone else might absolutely love it. On the other hand, nothing I read is going to change my opinion of Aladdin.
Mississippi Masala beat
Aladdin, which I think is a much better film; a prize fighter that would have gone the distance with
Am Hist X. alexarch was hoping Masala would fall into the hands of someone who is clearly not me. My take is that all his problems (involving the pacing, unnecessary scenes and weak acting in bit parts) were my problems, and they bothered me a hell of a lot more.
Verdict: Masala is out. American History X moves on.