53. The Deer Hunter

What it's about
It's about how some men cope with life after fighting in a war.

What I thought
I liked the music, but I thought it was a bit boring.

What Mum thought
Mum had seen this one before. "It is long, but I don't think it would have worked nearly so well if it had been cut. The film is very much character driven and while some scenes may not progress the plot at all, they do provide a deeper insight into the characters themselves. Brilliant performances from all the cast."

What Dad thought
First time for Dad. "I was wary going into this film. I thought I wouldn't enjoy it. The general consensus on the net was that it was looonnng.

I really enjoyed it. This film was split nicely into thirds, I loved the scenes where the boys showed their playfulness. The scenes in Vietnam were excellently done and the ending was great.

Happy to have watched but I will wait a while until watching again."

52. Taxi Driver

What it's about
It's about a man who drives a taxi.

What I thought
I liked the man's hair when he cut it.

What Mum thought
Mum had seen this one before. "I remember really liking this film. I blame Peter for this, but it seemed to drag this time. It's always tricky watching a film with someone you know isn't enjoying it. Great acting, as usual, from De Niro, and Foster is brilliant despite her young age. De Niro's character is an awkward one as he is not used to 'normal' life after life in the Marines, so much so he thinks a first date should involve taking Cybill Shepherd to a porn film. One of Scorsese's finest films. I've never made my mind up which interpretation of the ending to believe."

What Dad thought
First time for Dad. "I was quite looking forward to this film and I'd heard a lot of good things about it. Unfortunately, while the performances were great, I did not like the direction. I felt the pace of the film was slow and, for example, the scene where the camera pans to an empty corridor as Travis is talking to Betsy on the phone, prevented me from being able to connect with the film."