Jason's Lyric (1994)

What I really liked about this film? The performance of Allan Payne. I don't know how I've never noticed this guy before. I was impressed with him here. He was able to walk that fine line between the good guy...but still having some "street cred". And, that it was stunning, but Jada Pinkett Smith was good here.On the other hand, this is just another thug-type character role for Bokeem Woodbine. He's never impressed me; he didn't impress me here. The most I can say is that he fulfilled what was needed for the character. Eddie Griffin...this wasn't a role for him...it was a caricature.The story itself...well, I can buy into one aspect of it -- some families have a black sheep that they ought to just set free and disown...and that's really what this is about. On the other hand, some families have a true "good guy"...that often gets pulled down by the black sheep. In a nutshell...that's the plot.

This film is captivating!!! It brilliantly tells a story of Love and Sacrifice. This cast was the perfect group for this production. Payne, Pinkett, Woodbine, Wittaker... Everyone has already stated how well their performances was; but, one that mustn't be forgotten is Lisa Carson (Marti - Alonzo's girlfriend/Pinkett's co-worker)... Her character left an impact on me because of how she faced her reality by quoting others. She played her facade but her hurt began to shed light during her last conversation with Lyric... I don't want to give away too much but I will say that if you're looking for a nice movie that will tap into your senses, make you laugh and cry, and one that is very relate-able... Give Jason's Lyric a try!

I was very surprised at how good this movie was. My rottweiler, Lyric, who is now 13 years old was in this movie when she was 7 weeks old. I named her Lyric after the role of Jada Pinkett. Lyric went on to be an American/Canadian Champion. Her show name is Am/Ca CH. Von Traeger's Lyric. The movie took place in the 3rd Ward in Houston, Texas. It was awesome being on the set during the filming of this movie. I am looking at showing Lyric at the "Reliant Center World Dog Show" in Houston this next Month. She will be shown in Veterens Class 12 years and older. This is a rottweiler specialty show. Thank you for letting me share. Kerri

There must be 10+ setups for each scene, where the lighting is perfect, as if it was a student filmmaker's first 35mm film. There's absolutely no style, and no thought of how the film would work as a whole. Most of the pickups are wasted coverage. There's hardly any genuine suspense, and the ending feels totally forced, as does the last tacked-on song.Why is it that most new filmmakers are too busy trying to prove they can run a film production, run a show just like the pros? Why can't they focus on the end point - how the film will affect those who witness it? This filmmaker makes absolutely no point in what he does, except to show how unskilled he is as a storyteller.Not to compare the two, since they are completely different types of films, but if you want to see real amazing direction, in which the story unfolds with tremendous, unsuspecting power, see THE PIANO. Jane Campion's direction could teach many that it's not the coverage, and multiple set-ups, but the performances, pacing and story that goes first.