couldn't watch it; should I try again? - The Good Shepherd (2006) Discussion

[–] JrnlofEddieDeezenStudies 16 years ago

It doesn't change its "tone" much, although the plot certainly develops . . . but if you disliked the first 45 minutes that much, I'm skeptical that you'd care for the rest. 45 minutes is more than enough time to figure out that you really don't care for a film and shouldn't waste time finishing it, imo. The only exception would be a film that changes drastically halfway through, but this one doesn't. Everything that bothered you about the first 45 minutes is likely to continue bothering you for the remaining 2+ hours.

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[–] Ilario1 16 years ago

Took me a couple of tries to get past the first 30 minutes or so. Either I got really bored or just plain fell asleep. One time when I absolutely had nothing better to do and I sat down and watched the whole thing. I'm glad I did. I've watched it several times since just because I still didn't get the whole gist of the movie in one complete viewing. I enjoyed this movie a lot. But its not gonna change much at all as far as the pacing goes. Its really slow moving. But like the poster above says, the plot develops and on the whole it is very interesting.

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[–] piquebu 16 years ago

OP, your post is hilarious to me only because I only lasted 45 minutes, too. I was bored after the first 20 minutes and thought maybe I was missing key info and even turned on subtitles to help me to understand more of what was going on. Nope.

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[–] markfilipak 16 years ago

Chopper.

This is a brilliant film, but not for people who like it hard and fast. If you appreciate The Godfather as much for its tragic pathos as for its action, then by all means watch The Good Shepherd all the way through, but be prepared to spend about 5 hours replaying scenes. Most films telegraph their key plot points, but not this film. I think that the plot is flawless and I appreciate that it unfolds slowly and through flashbacks (and sometimes, in flashbacks within flashbacks), but I can also appreciate that some people seek simple escape and this film does not provide that. Regarding the mystery of the tape recording of the woman saying that lovers don't keep secrets, this film most reminds me of The Conversation. If you enjoy that film, you will really enjoy this film.
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[–] marthalorusso 16 years ago

Well, I'm glad to see I wasn't the only one, I fell asleep during his marriage, and it took a huge effort watching 'til that.

But reading to some people looks like it deserves another chance.

I will try...

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[–] CChopper 16 years ago

Thanks all!
Perhaps in a year or two I will try again! With my life right now (three small kiddies) I do look for the fast, action, get to the point sort of thing! I don't have time now for replaying scenes!! I will keep this in mind for the future and watch a little Bourne right now! :)

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[–] Ilario1 16 years ago

The Trilogy is in constant rotation. If you like Matt Damon try Syriana. Its a little different but its pretty good.

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[–] century-letters 16 years ago

I was fighting to stay awake the whole time. I didn't turn it off, but I should have. Biggest waste of time ever.

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[–] tommy9791 16 years ago

stick to the Bourne movies and stfu.

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[–] kairingler 15 years ago

in my opinion no. it is long and boring, drawn out, deniro isn't in too many scenes at all.. not a great movie at all.
are you going to bark all day little doggie,, or are you going to bite

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[–] aekdb918 15 years ago

I completely disagree. I wish the movie never ended. If you areextremely intellegent, as I am, you will love this movie. If loud noises and flashy cgi is a good movie to you then you should pass on this masterpiece. If the cold war and espionage isn't your thing I'd pass as well. For the kids who couldn't watch this, please stick to the incredible hulk.

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[–] kairingler 15 years ago

there are way better cold war movies than this lame azz boring piece of overbilled crap,,,, wake up

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[–] Oceans300 15 years ago

I found it to be somewhat deep thoughtful yet ultimately slow and lifeless/boring on a surface level. The better movies shouldn't sacrifice entertainment factor for depth. Though personal taste and objective qualities are two separate things.

But then again, I'm just intelligent, as opposed to "areextremely intellegent."

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[–] coprogirl 15 years ago

Everyone's different. I loved this film, have seen it multiple times and will watch it again. Many nuances, complicated story, lots of historical references, and great acting.

coprogirl

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Blazing Saddles

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