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Reviews
Damsel (2024)
Princess Elodie is a girls girl.
From the beginning to the end, I loved this fantasy, sci-fi, period film. It's full to the brim with lore, fantastic actors and a beautiful setting. Our leading ladies, Millie, Angela and Robin were perfectly selected for their respective parts. As a fan of The Princess Bride it was throughly enjoying to see Robin take her proper place in society, yet again, this time however with a lot more cruelty and subterfuge. Millie Bobbi-Brown portrays a true girls girl. She has all of the grit, gentleness and class that really makes this film feel good in your heart.
The voice of the dragon Shohreh Aghdashloo really rounds out the film nicely. She has her beautiful, raspy voice that lends itself beautifully to the war torn, mourning matriarch. The last of her species who meets the first of their species type of woman. The ending went exactly as I'd hoped, and further than my expectations. This is a solid 9/10. I look forward to even more Millie leading films!
Dune: Part Two (2024)
Frank Herbert would be proud.
As an avid lover and reader of Frank Herbert's Dune, as well as the sequel's written by his son Brian, and inspired by the notes he left for the Dune Universe. I'll start by saying this movie is beautiful. There were a few hiccups and story/plot and timeline changes that would be imperceptible to a non-reader. I question why some of those decisions were made, especially in regards to Chani's story. However in the context we are given in the movie, I assume they are pushing for a third, to see Chani and Maud Dib's story to full fruition. I am excited to see a part three, if the first two are any indication of how cinematically adventurous and humbling it could be, I wait with bated breath and cross both fingers. 9/10, solely based on a few minor script errors and plot changes. I feel Frank would have been delighted to see his world given to us, I'm curious to know what Brian thinks.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians (2023)
Avid Riordan Reader is 10/10 impressed
Basing the show solely off of the first book of the series it is at an 8/10 due to Annabeth not being a blonde and blue "movie stars daughter". Basing off of the content, actors, direction and special effects as well as the subplot and story line, it is a 10/10. I was perturbed in wondering why Rick had chosen an actor racially different for Chiron, Zeus and Annabeth Chase. However after giving it a go, trusting Rick's judgement, I was completely convinced that these actors were MEANT to play these parts.
In Rick's world, there are only 4 races. Human, Demi-God, Gods and Titans. Skin color, plays no part in those roles, and as we all have learned racial, physical and even sexual ambiguity are well known amongst Gods. Hades can be a father for one child, but a mother for another. This series was everything I had been hoping for. The actors are phenomenal. My fingers are firmly crossed for a season 2, and hopefully a future screen adaptation of Kane Chronicles, Magnus, or Apollo!
Dogma (1999)
One of Kevin's best
This film, felt like enough to come out of retirement. Fresh writing for the ages. A fantastical, creative take on todays current "Good Omens" before it was ever dreamed by others. Matt and Ben's performances were unforgettable. I watched this movie as a young teen, and it has stayed with me ever since. It has all of the heart, comedy, and rhetoric you've come to expect out of someone of Kevin Smiths caliber. The extra touch of fantastic by Allen Rickman just adds to the amusement. All the more now that we have lost him. I would almost wish for a part 2, of Matt and Ben in heaven fulfilling orders while controlling their laughable, silly bromance.
School Spirits (2023)
Peyton List, is surprisingly likable.
I'll start by saying I'm not much of a connoisseur of teenage drama shows. I started watching on a boredom whim, and binged the entire show in less than two days! The story line, is surprisingly complex. The character development is slow, methodical and interesting. I was most surprised by Peyton List in this. I squirmed at her character in Kobra Kai, however clearly now that be determined it was a bad script, and nothing to do with her acting. She is likeable, relatable and a generally lovely person in this. Which makes the plot twists all the more compelling. She makes for a fantastic leading lady. The character Simon, to me is both the most opaque. I can understand his motives, yet he is a total mystery of the best kind. I know nothing of his back story. But I find myself wondering about his home life, what atmosphere would allow him to thrive. Great show, I will go 8/10 as I like it.
Lockwood & Co. (2023)
There are books too?!
I, a 34 year old female absolutely adored this show. The acting was fantastic. Such a young cast! This is the kind of show that can make you slip away into another world, and have no regrets.
The plot, the scenery, and THE SCORE. Some of the best music I've heard used in a very long time. During a few scenes in particular I had to Shazam the music as I've never heard it, but loved it. It's all mood, and ambiance. These teens we are watching make me very excited for the future of the show. Some serious acting chops on 3, occasionally 4 actors I am not acquainted with.
I also was not aware that this is a book! I am very excited to read, and have my fingers crossed tightly for a season 2. Netflix please don't let us down on this one!
The Sandman (2022)
Obsessed, is putting it mildly.
I'll preface by saying, I was already a fan of Neil Gaiman's work. Good Omens, and Coraline to be exact. However I wasn't aware of the his Sandman Comics, so when this show premiered I just thought "eh I'll give it a shot, I love Charles Dance and David Thewlis." I wasn't aware of what I was getting myself into.
The Sandman was singularly one of the most beautiful, graphic and interesting shows I have seen in years, with a remarkable cast from start to finish. Every episode is so unique and different. With contrasting themes, vivid characters and stories all converging into one main characters arch. It was stunning. A visual, intellectual and emotional masterpiece. Every episode leaves the viewer feeling a different way. I don't want to give spoilers. I just wish there were a magic time machine to use, so I could go back and forget I've binged it. Just to experience the magic of Netflix's The Sandman, all over again.
Moon Knight (2022)
Gripping and Adventurous!
Right from the start I knew this show would hold my interest. As an avid fan of Egyptology and Egyptian History, I was interested to see how much Marvel/Disney would change or get right. It was very exciting to have the character naming of God's who most people aren't aware of and for me to know who they were and what they stood for. It made me feel like an "insider" which is so much more than any other Marvel Series has done thus far. A show that finally takes my "nerdy" historical interests and turns it into a fantastic, different and enchanting show.
Led by a phenomenal team of actors with Oscar Issac at the helm. I'm enjoying the juxtaposition of Marc/Steven and their personalities. I am curious about which God or entity is attached (symbiotic) with Marc. A part of Egyptian History that is not often talked about and even less written about, but none the less a part of their history were mortal "hosts" having a symbiotic relationship with a God to achieve a like minded goal. The host allows the God to "imbue power" whatever that power may be, and the God allows the human to remain in control of the facilities. Not unlike what the character Venom is based on, only the God doesn't die if the host does. I am curious to see how Marc started this relationship with a God, and what part Steven will be playing.
So not only is this show thus far historically/lore accurate but it also shines a light on a mental illness that many people are faced with daily. It's creating a person, not just a character. I for one am happy to go along for the ride.
The Batman (2022)
A brilliant display of the true Bruce Wayne.
As an avid Batman connoisseur, I felt nervous to see this performance. I am from the age of Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer and George Clooney's Batman. All of whom brought something different to the character, but seemed to miss a key element. One was either a good Bruce, or a good Bat, never both. Then came the age of Christian Bale. Who is a wonderful actor, but still wasn't "MY" Batman. He played a typical yuppy adult Bruce, who like Keaton's and Clooney's version, wanted to be in the limelight constantly. The films were great in their own right but once again, something felt off.
Then, Robert enters DC. Knowing a lot of his film work, I felt he would be up to the challenge but was excited to see what he did with the character. Finally, after 30 years, and many different renditions, I've found "MY" Batman. One in which Bruce and the Bat are cohesive. The same person, with the same fears and desires. Robert was flawless. The score, cinematography, co-cast, every element of this film were impeccable. I am so excited and waiting with baited breath for a second of the Robert/Zoë Batman Franchise.
The Gilded Age (2022)
A pleasant surprise!
I've have been a long time reader, and fan of Julien Fellows. I always loved Downton, and had my favorites on the show, however while it is fun to visit that period in time I don't feel a personal attachment to it. The Gilded Age takes place at around 4 decades before my family immigrated to New York. They knew of many of the "high-profile" families mentioned in the show. It's so fun to watch history being made, while enjoying a really well written, acted, and costumed period drama. Even after all of these years loving Downton and the attention for detail, I think The Gilded Age has just stolen the #1 spot for my favorite period series. I hope it continues on for many seasons! Such a phenomenal cast, I'm eagerly anticipating every Monday!
Bo Burnham: Inside (2021)
New to Bo
I have never watched a Bo special before now. I've never even listened to people talk about him. When I heard his name mentioned, I assumed he was "too young" or just another new pop culture figure, that I had no interest in learning about.
Inside popped up on my recommended, I'm not sure why. Perhaps because I'm "inside" all of the time now.
I watched the special, and when I got to be around an hour in, I didn't realize it had been an hour. I was completely captivated. It was like watching a brilliant, golden train going down in a fiery train wreck. I couldn't stop watching though I wasn't sure if it was good for my mental health to continue. He made so many poignant points. All meme worthy, but ironically funny. I don't think I have had that experience with a comedian, where I can almost feel what he is feeling without him even saying anything. Empathy, and concern were both very present while I watched. I was worried for him, and how he was. A dude I've never met and didn't know about 5 seconds before. Nothing he said confused me, in fact I was surprised by how much of my life, he injected into an hour. Everything he said, and did were relatable and how my brain feels on the inside 24/7. There were parts where I cracked up. Parts where I started thinking and remembering what's really going on, or what my priorities should be. He managed to completely capture my own "millennial" voice and thoughts. I finished the film both feeling light hearted, and dreading the end. Well done Bo. 10/10 will watch again, and play your songs on repeat. Ahh, well I have to go now. I've gotta face-time with my mom tonight.
Shadow and Bone (2021)
Acting is bland.
There is so much potential for the story. However for the main cast and supportive cast there aren't enough heavy hitters. None of the acting is believable. The reason His Dark Materials (similar show) does so well, is the interplay between young and old characters. The acting of HDM is believable. When a character is angry, you can tell and see when it is justifiable. In this show, the main character (Alina) is so boring. Even her anger, isn't angry. The world she is coming from and walking into is rough. So you would assume she would be more mature and or at least more complex. She is boring to watch, and to listen to. I almost compared my dislike of Alina to Elena from The Vampire Diaries. Except that wouldn't be fair to Elena (who in contrast is much more complex.)
Jupiter's Legacy (2021)
Less than stellar
Interesting cast selections. The story line had so much potential. It was a decent "mindless" watch. Entertaining in the typical teenage drama department. The daughter Chloe portrayed by Elena Kampouris, was clearly watching 90's Winona Ryder films. She seems to be so heavily influenced by Ryder, that it tainted every scene, all of the dialog and reactions. It was almost painful and unbearable to watch. Some of the cast are fantastic at their job. But unfortunately they weren't enough to save the show for me.
The English Game (2020)
What I've come to expect with JF.
This is the kind of show I've come to expect as a Julian Fellows fan. Both of his books, and shows. He has done an exceptional job here. If you aren't a fan of football (soccer in the US) you can still get behind this show. It's every ones game, the rich and the poor. This gives the same comfortable feeling as Downton Abbey. It's warm, inviting but has it's own drama. A perfect 10/10 on every level. I know it won't likely be a season 2, but if so I will watch it!
Hubie Halloween (2020)
Another Adventure through The Sandler-verse.
This movie was exactly what I've come to expect, but more! It was funny, silly, wholesome, with so many realistic underlying themes throughout. I got to see some of my child-hood favorite characters. Who were in the older Sandler movies. We also meet some new characters as well! I may be biased, since I grew up on SNL, and Sandler's films in general, but this is his best "Silly" work since Happy Gilmore/Billy Madison era. I went in knowing I would get the goofy. But came out feeling satisfied, happy, and warm. A perfect Autumn favorite. As a bonus, my 10 year old son thinks Adam is hilarious, and has already rewatched it multiple times. He is still a little too young to introduce him to my Sandler favorites. However this one will do just fine until he gets a little older.
Altered Carbon (2018)
First/Second Season hmm
Season One was pretty remarkable. It left me on the edge of my seat. Never really "in love" with a character until meeting Poe. He captured my heart(and imagination) as soon as he arrived on screen. Kinnamans portrayal of Takeshi was so well done. Synonymous with the original "sleeve", he moved the same, had the same speech pattern and cadence, even though they are two separate actors. He had a sort of morbid, if not dark sense of humor. Which made sense to me, he doesn't fear death or oblivion. He is a Quellquest. He doesn't believe we should be immortal, but at the same time has an immortal passion for life, and those he has loved or lost. He never really gives away too much. His manner of acting is so controlled, that even when you can expect something from him, he still gives the unexpected. Season 1 is a 10/10.
Season Two was... hmm. As we all know, Poe is back and more depressed than ever. His life has gotten rough over the long break. He has his own issues to sort through while also trying to retain his own inner Poe. Mackie is portraying Takeshi this season. All of my inner thoughts and fears were confirmed when I first heard he was going to play the new Takeshi Sleeve. "Will he be able to pull it off? He is a dude, playing a dude disguised as another dude. There are now 3 different actors to play the role. Will Anthony be able to truly become and feel like Kinnaman and Mann. Those two were so similar, almost like Kinnaman studied Mann's mannerisms and cadence before filming. I don't think Mackie will be able to pull this off." I was right.
My initial thought process did take place on the screen. There was a very large gap between Mann and Kinnamans portrayal of Tak, and Mackies. Mackie plays Tak as a love struck idiot. Who over his 300 year old life span, he is still a sick 16 year old puppy love fool. It is all about Quell. It's all about finding her, seeing if she still loves me. Etc etc. It was boring with a capital B. We all knew Tak loved Quell. Joel made sure we could see that in a controlled way. Anthony made it almost a love-sick portrayal. Where it was no longer about helping others, or himself (a very Tak thing to do.) it was all about Quell and "does she love me as much as I love her?" When let's face it, that's NOT Tak and Quells love story. I was very disappointed to say the least. It was still well done, though sometimes a little discombobulated in the story line. At the beginning of this season Tak is in a female form. And unsurprisingly that actor played Tak and had the speech pattern of Kinnaman and Mann. Somehow, a 3 second on screen "temp sleeve" played Takeshi more believably than Mackie. I honestly wish THAT female singer sleeve, would have been the sleeve all season.
This is NOT a slam on Anthony's acting ability. However it was foolish to just go ahead and cast him without seeing if there was chemistry between him and the Takeshi character. Which there clearly was not. I give season 2 an 8/10. Simply for Poe, and the newest editions Trepp, and Dig.
If season 3 does return, please don't make us wait 2 years. And please for the love of god, don't cast someone just because he is a current success or a "big name." Cast him or her, because they are right for the role.
The Witcher (2019)
Henry Perfected Geralt
I'll start by saying, I have read 5 in The Witcher series. I have also played all versions of The Witcher video games. Needless to say, I was already a fan of the plot, storyline, and characters. As well as the objectives. I've rewatched Season 1 twice now. I can say beyond a doubt That Henry(Superman)Cavill is Geralt. He perfected him. I do not want to spoil parts, or Henry's quirks while portraying Geralt. I can say, that in a lot of ways he made me like Geralt more. Dandelion? Well... he is definitely Dandelion! The show start to finish was fantastic. The music, composition, dialogue, action sequences. They were all beautifully orchestrated and executed. I can literally not find a flaw in it, anywhere. Even Yen! Who was never a very likable character in the Books for me, was somehow more likable in the show. I give all of the credit to Anya. She did a remarkable job. There were several parts of the show that I could pause and it would look identical to a cut scene in The Witcher 3. Just, well done. I feel like this did justice to Andrzej Sapkowski. Without whom, I would never have gotten to see Henry, as a stunning silver/white fox.
Ready Player One (2018)
My favorite from 2018/2019
I was a huge fan of this movie, before reading the book. The story line is relatable. The characters are all fun, or insane. I think Steven really outdid himself taking on this film. When compared to the book, it is STILL a wonderful film. It altered from the story line in so many ways. And now after binge reading the book I understand why. You cant really make a movie, where 99% of the action is taking place inside of someone's thoughts. I'm glad they altered what they did for the film. They made the action scenes more explosive, and Wade, less "socially awkward". Overall the film has a 10/10 for me. I keep going back and rewatching. It has become one of my all time favorites.
The Umbrella Academy (2019)
Pure Magic
The show has a slow start. It takes you around, and introduces you to these individuals in the middle of their lives. And then chaos and destruction strikes and we get to see everyone at their best, and worst moments. It's epic. I watched the entire season in 3 days. It's also fun, because as a fan in Gerard you can hear his influence in both the story telling and obviously, the music. Its beautiful, dark, sad, happy, and compelling. My favorite from the first few moments was Klaus. I immediately liked him, and my suspicions on why he does the things he does, was proven right shortly after I assumed the reason.
I will be holding my breath and crossing my fingers for a Season 2!!!
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul (2017)
My son loved it!
My son is 8, and has read all of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. Jeff Kinney is his favorite author, and through this series actually got him to LOVE reading. I have my fingers crossed that "The Meltdown" will be made into a film. I have enjoyed watching them with him, and watching how happy it makes him.
Warcraft (2016)
Fits the game, is fun to watch!
As an avid WOW player (alliance) for me, this movie was gorgeous! I was so excited to see many of the local spots in the game, on both Alli and Horde side! With the new patch updates of the game, it makes you wonder where they can take it next. As in this movie they are battling thing that we're just released in the game. You get to see Paladins, Mages, Orcs, Human Warriors etc. The only character I wish I could have seen would have been a Druid(my main character is a druid). A being that can transform into a Bear, a Cat, A boomkin, or a raven. As well as look human. I am hoping they will create a second movie. It was too fun to watch, so much so, I'm watching it again right now. As I've said, this movie is like watching the game on a larger scale. It's seeing your home base, the way you first see it in the game. It's so vast and large, so many different worlds, that there is no reason they couldn't make a second. I know that at least 300,000 people would pay to see this. Anyone who plays the game, will watch it. And that should be enough at $8 a ticket, to pay for any of the effects used in the movie. Amazing. A masterpiece. So well done and thought out. Love Blizard. Love Legendary Entertainment for picking the film up, for all of us players and non players to enjoy.
Beyond (2016)
If you liked Vamp Diaries/The Originals, you'll like this show!
I see a few of the reviews are stating that the shows too childish, etc etc. I can easily say it's a clever show. I watched the entire season within 4 days. (Very busy over here). I like Holden the main character. He reminds me a little of Taylor Laurene's character in Twilight. Why do I keep relating this show to vampire TV? It has a similar feeling. The unknown, drama, love interests, murder plots. Etc. I think that the cast is solid enough to support the show, as well as the story line. I think people who watched TVD or still tune into The Originals on the CW will find this show a welcomed reprieve of awaiting new seasons of their favorites. I'm supposed to write 10 lines, not sure how I am going to do that. I just wanted to say it's a good show. Not fantastic, not extraordinary, but good. It does what it needs to do, and yes will leave you questioning a few things along the way. You'll be washing dishes and wondering what's going to happen next. Which imo that's the sign of good television.
Brooklyn (2015)
Excellent Film
I loved this movie! Within the first few minutes I was captivated. It's a beautiful story, and Saoirse is a wonderful lead character. You can feel her intent through her eyes, she doesn't need words for you to understand what she wants and is thinking. Excellent classic film, that will be one for the "watch again" list. It is such a nail biting film and the time period captured and true nature of being an immigrant is seen, through the eyes of a very shy and smart Irish girl. The plot is thick with emotions, decisions, wants and needs. The cast is wonderful, all of the people selected for this film, made it feel truly authentic. I'm a 3rd generation Italian and German immigrant, my family can watch this film, and tell me that it is true. The fear of the unknown, the hard work, the strength that you needed to survive and flourish here. In my opinion this is a real love story, with more than one kind of love.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Remarkable!
6/2015 I adored this film. From the cast, to the plot, the scenery and the score. This film is beautiful in every way. Its uplifting, a spiritual journey for a man who needs to find himself. There are no dull moments, instead it jumps quickly from scene to scene leaving you with beautiful land and oceanic views. Sean Penn is wonderful in the role of Shawn. The use of "ground control" give the whole movie a "larger than life" feeling. This is an A++ film. Ben Stiller is wonderful! This is a comfort film. Snuggle down with snacks, a fluffy blanket and a cool breeze and just go far far away. If I were able to gush more I would. I'll just leave it at a must see and if you haven't already watched, what are you waiting for?!
Update:8/2016 Still in love with this film. It's timeless. Even though I have watched Walters adventure more than a handful of times, I still go back. This movie has replaced "Hook"(W/Robin Williams) as my "sick" movie. If or when I'm not feeling good, I put on Walter, and feel loved and warm almost as soon as his first daydream. This is NOT the original movie. It feels and moves nothing like it. This movie is timeless. Much the same as the '95 Pride and Prejudice. Though others may try to imitate or even replicate this film, no one will really be able to hold the impact of Stillers version.