Beautiful, jarring
Theresa | Columbus, OH | 06/14/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The story itself is pretty simple, but the execution of the story is what makes Dogfight a very lovely film. I think the actors did a great job conveying the awkwardness of what falling in love is all about. While Lili Taylor is not ugly at all, I like the idea of an "ugly girl" getting the guy without changing herself. She stayed true to herself until the very end. Speaking of which: The ending, in my opinion, is one of the most perfect endings I've seen for a movie - hands down. I don't really have much else to add except to say that Dogfight is a gripping love story and you will think about it long after the film is over. Dogfight is really well done and I hope that more people discover/experience it."
Simply amazing
Leah | London | 09/13/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I am on a crusade to make sure as many people as possible see this film. It is unusual, funny, brilliantly acted and just beautiful. You dont get acting like this anymore and after watching this movie I am sure you'll agree that all other "teen" type movies fall so far short and seem almost contrived.
I just can get enough of this movie. River Phoenix is sadly no longer with us but you just want more of him as the Character Birdlace and more of Lili Taylor as Rose. BUY IT AND WATCH IT!"
Wonderfully Unconventional Love Story
David Baldwin | Philadelphia,PA USA | 08/22/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"It's amazing how the studios can market dross to the public yet can't sell an endearing picture like "Dogfight". If I recall correctly, this picture didn't even run theatrically in Philly. This film is in essence a love story and the two principals, River Phoenix and Lili Taylor are most appealing and believable. There are other themes that run throughout this film. It serves as an expose of machismo in it's most phony and cruel forms. There is also a pacifistic message that runs through it with the nascent conflict in Vietnam in the background. Director Nancy Savoca weaves these themes passionately into the narrative but doesn't bludgeon the point. See this film for the heartbreaking final scene for nothing else. This film serves as a good epitaph for the tragically short-lived Phoenix. Look close for Brendan Fraser as a sailor."
River Phoenix in his prime.
Gregory Alongi | 09/20/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This movie is very simple, and unique. It's the kind of love story which you really believe in while you're watching because it doesn't feel phony. This can be credited to the acting, the situation, and the plot as well. This isn't about a man falling madly in love with a beautiful woman and then spending his life missing her. That's all been done, and that's what makes this film a breath of fresh air. River Phoenix shows why he is missed by so many, and really allows you to connect with his character. I recomend this to anyone who wants to see love put to true art, and be touched at the same time."