When Dennis Hopper boarded Henry Jaglom's train of memories-
prudence eely bond mcguire | London, England UK | 11/19/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Henry Jaglom's 'Tracks', is a beautifully constructed film, that, deals with the power of memory and the tragedy of War.
Without a doubt, the fiery, fantastic acting talent, that is, Dennis Hopper, struts his stuff so close to the bone, that one is drawn in so personally, that, the pain of his situation, becomes, almost unbearable to watch.
Unbearable to watch, but, one invariably does and keeps up with him to the shattering, unexpected climax.
I first saw this film, featured on a program, hosted by the filmmaker, Alex Cox(Sid and Nancy), on BBC London, quite a few years' ago.
It quite literally, blew my mind away!
Never, had I quite seen before, a filmmaker, who, bluntly criticised the horror of Vietnam and presented it in such a direct, straightforward manner.
The supporting cast, including, the splendid Dean Stockwell, is admirable indeed!
Filmed on location, it features, almost all the scenes,aboard several trains.
Apparently, Jaglom, failed to get initial permission, from the powers that be, to film, aboard the locomotives, the consequences of which, the cast and crew, were booted off, train after train.
Congratulations, all around, that, the movie managed to get finished at all!
Praise be to God it did!
I reinterate and reiterate, a splendid, masterful film, with an outstanding central performance from Mr.Hopper.
Miss this film at your peril!"
Make tracks to get TRACKS!
Richard Masloski | New Windsor, New York USA | 07/15/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a magnificent and moving film that is, arguably, the best film about the Vietnam War and its consequences without its locale being that actual country. Actually, this is a movie about all wars,those both personal and political. It is also the best depiction of post traumatic stress disorder I have ever seen in a movie. The script and direction by the very individualistic Henry Jaglom are terrific - but it is the late, great Dennis Hopper who truly makes the film unforgettable. His performance is outstanding; perhaps the best of his long and storied career. Don't miss this one!
P.S. The Hopper character is hardly ever without his cassette player playing all the songs he loves. Two years later another offbeat character appeared in another must-see film - "Fingers" - where the main character played by Harvey Keitel is also hardly ever without his cassette-playing companion. Did James Toback, also this film's writer and director, draw an influence from "Tracks"? Perhaps. Either way, they are both films that should not be missed."