Conference bookie::movies

814.0. "Imaginary Crimes" by SALEM::LAMOTHE (Marcel Lamothe -- Salem, NH) Sun Apr 23 1995 20:27

Hi all, I saw IMAGINARY CRIMES this weekend on video. I didn't know anything
about this film except that it starred Harvey Keitel. Given the name of the
film, and Keitel's recent works, namely Pulp Fiction, Bad Lieutenant, and
Reservoir Dogs, I thought this might be a cops & robbers flick. Turns out I
was wrong, but I was happy with what I found... 

The story takes place in the 1950s. Keitel plays a character called Ray. Ray's 
wife died several years back, and he's been raising his two daughters alone 
since then. He tries to be the good father, but is always getting involved in
shaddy deals.

The film's main focus is the father/daughter relationship, between Ray and his
oldest daughter, 18 year old Sonya. The film pulls you in, makes you feel the
range of emotions these characters feel: anger, sadness, dispair, love, and
more. 

One last thing that I want to mention is that this film is suitable for
children; There is no real harsh language (Hell and sh*t are said a couple of
times), there is no nudity/sex/rape, and no violence. I bring this up mostly
because of the other films I mentioned earlier, which are all very graphic. 

Overall, I liked it a lot. I give it a ``thumbs up'' and recommend it. 

Anyone else seen it? 

-Marcel 

I remember when the movie was previewed at the Boston Film Festival last winter
and it received major critical raves.  But it was out only a very short time in
distribution. I waited impatiently for it to come out in video. 

I found the film a difficult film to watch emotionally.  The acting from
everyone was very subtle and beautifully done.  Each of the main characters
forced the viewer to examine all aspects of the person's character.  I felt for
and agonized over each character's plight.  I was especially surprised at the
depth of feeling that Harvey Keitel brought to is his role.  The girl, can't
remember her name, Faisel???, was maybe a little too pouty but very good
regardless.  I think her first major role was as Ruby in Ruby in Paradise.

In summary, it is a fine film, literate, thoughtful, and well done.

RA

    Fairuza Balk was in "Gas Food Lodging", "Valmont" (I think), "Murder in
    the Heartland" (made-for TV thing on Charlie Stakwether/Carol Fugate).
    
    I don't think she was in "Ruby in Paradise".  The star of that was
    Ashley Judd.
    
    - Dave

    Could anyone tell me what this film is all about and if was ever
    released in the U.K.
    
    daks

Yes, you are right.  I knew she was in a movie about a young girl and it was
movie that I especially liked.  

Thanks!
Ruth Ann