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El hoyo (2019)
Rushed
A mysterious place, an indescribable prison, a deep hole. An unknown number of levels. Two inmates living on each level. A descending platform containing food for all of them. An inhuman fight for survival, but also an opportunity for solidarity...
As someone who generally enjoys Spanish movies, I found "The Platform" to be an inventive and captivating dystopian thriller, even if it was a bit muddled at times. The film's central theme drives the story forward and leaves the viewer wanting more of the world it presents. It's a shame that the movie ends too soon, as I would have loved to see more of its fascinating universe.
The Big Short (2015)
THIS IS A TRUE STORY
"The Big Short" is a movie that deals with a serious and complex topic with meticulous attention to detail. It delivers a well-acted, scathingly funny critique of the real-life villains involved in the bargain.
In 2006-2007, a group of investors placed a bet against the United States mortgage market. Through their research, they discovered how flawed and corrupt the market was.
Adam McKay, the director of the movie, assembled one of the most star-studded casts in cinema history, including Christian Bale, Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, and Brad Pitt, among others. These actors gave great performances, and the movie itself was beautifully and interestingly shot. However, the most significant strength of the movie is its true story.
"The Big Short" recounts a story that the world has already experienced: a financial crisis that had never been seen before and, hopefully, will never be seen again.
Focus (2015)
Never drop the con!
"Focus" is a movie about a veteran con man named Nicky, who is in the middle of his latest scheme. The story takes an unexpected turn when a woman from his past, who is now a successful femme fatale, reappears in his life. The movie has a glamorous setting and charming stars, but it may be a bit confusing at times due to its many plot twists. The fast-paced nature of the movie keeps the audience engaged, but it can also create a feeling of disorientation.
Despite this, "Focus" has some very memorable scenes, such as the opening and gambling scenes. These scenes work well because of their twists and thrills, creating suspense and leaving a lasting impression on the audience. However, as the movie progresses, the twists become more effective, reducing the impact of the story.
Solyaris (1972)
Peak Tarkovsky!
Solaris is a science fiction movie that explores the complexities of humanity and existence. The story follows a psychologist who is sent to a space station orbiting a planet called Solaris to investigate the death of a doctor and the mental health issues experienced by cosmonauts on the station. The planet's water has a unique quality that brings out repressed memories and obsessions. The movie takes the audience on a journey through deep space and the mysteries of the human mind. It raises profound questions about the nature of life and the human experience. The film is both captivating and thought-provoking.
The Zone of Interest (2023)
Less passion is more emotion!
In "The Zone of Interest," we are presented with a dispassionate examination of the mundane lives of individuals involved in heinous crimes. The story follows Rudolf Höss, the commandant of Auschwitz, and his wife Hedwig as they attempt to create a dream life for their family in a house and garden next to the camp. Rather than relying on dialogue or action, director Jonathan Glazer uses sound to attack the audience, delivering a disturbing reminder of how easily evil can be normalized. While the slow pace may challenge some viewers, "The Zone of Interest" ultimately forces us to confront the mundanity behind unforgivable brutality.
Spaceman (2024)
Great premise, slow pace, and not so good of an execution!
The film "Spaceman" features a talented cast who deliver sensitive performances that bring poignant themes to life. However, the movie fails to consistently engage with its most intriguing ideas. The plot revolves around an astronaut named Jakub, who is six months into his solo mission on the edge of the solar system. He becomes concerned about his life back on Earth and is aided by an ancient creature he discovers in the depths of his spacecraft.
The movie is most compelling in its exploration of the relationship between Jakub and Hanus, played brilliantly by Paul Dano. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable and makes for some of the film's most memorable moments. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for Jakub and Linda, Carey Mulligan's character, who is given little screen time to work with.
While the movie has some excellent performances and a satisfying ending, it ultimately falls short of expectations. Given its high anticipation, it was disappointing that the film did not consistently engage with its most interesting ideas.
Dune: Part Two (2024)
LONG LIVE THE FIGHTERS
Dune: Part Two is a visually stunning and narratively gripping movie that continues Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of the beloved sci-fi series in an impressive manner. The film's phenomenal visuals, score, VFX, and acting make the 166-minute runtime feel too little to enjoy fully. For the best experience, I highly recommend watching it in an IMAX theatre.
Denis Villeneuve has done a fantastic job of taking the story from the book and transforming it into an epic second installment of his series. As someone who loved the first movie, I had high expectations, but Villeneuve managed to surpass them all. This movie proves that he is the sci-fi director of our generation!
The Iron Claw (2023)
SAD!
The Iron Claw is an incredibly poignant movie that does justice to its true story. It showcases a compassionate take on family ties that is as emotionally impacting as the wrestling action in the ring. The film chronicles the story of the inseparable Von Erich brothers, who made history in the fiercely competitive world of professional wrestling in the early 1980s. With Zac Efron's outstanding performance and director Sean Durkin's direction, the movie has become one of the most emotionally stirring films of the year. The acting in the film is truly remarkable, with each megastar delivering an exemplary performance that keeps you glued to the screen. The screenplay is the driving force behind the movie's emotional impact, making it one of the most engaging films of the year. As a former wrestling fan, The Iron Claw took me back to my childhood and because of that, it remains one of my 2023 favorites. The movie is a powerfully emotional experience with some outstanding acting, and it brings to life the very sad real-life story of the Von Erich brothers in a very touching manner.
American Fiction (2023)
Sad funny!
Jeffrey Wright's portrayal of Cord Jefferson's "American Fiction" will always be remembered as one of his most dedicated performances. This cleverly humorous and insightful material is a smart drama with satirical elements, boasting an intriguing and refreshing screenplay. While the ending may not be to everyone's liking, the score is excellent, and the use of lighting makes for interesting visuals. Sterling K. Brown's performance was particularly thought-provoking, delivering a layered and amusing character with a touch of sadness. "American Fiction" effortlessly blends intelligence with humor and emotion, leaving the audience both laughing and pondering.
Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003)
A roaring rampage of revenge!
"Kill Bill" is a fascinating tale of revenge, filled with a plethora of inventive styles that make it an absolute joy to watch. The story follows an assassin who is shot by her callous employer, Bill, and others in their circle of assassins. Despite the odds, she manages to survive and begins to plot her vengeance.
Uma Thurman's performance, in collaboration with Quentin Tarantino, is noteworthy and stands out in her career. The second and third acts of the movie are almost perfect, overshadowing the less significant first act.
Tarantino's work is visually impressive and violent, reflecting his signature style that makes the movie a thrilling journey for the audience. The soundtrack is another highlight of the film, showcasing Tarantino's prowess in music selection.
Overall, "Kill Bill" is only the beginning of a much larger narrative, but it does not fail to impress.
The Thing (1982)
Effective!
A group of researchers stationed in Antarctica is being relentlessly pursued by a shape-shifting alien that can take on the appearance of its victims. John Carpenter's "The Thing" is a gripping science fiction thriller that surpasses its 1950s predecessor in terms of terror. The film is packed with engrossing suspense and boasts some truly remarkable special effects.
The stark, frozen landscape contrasts the feverish paranoia experienced by the team members, who are constantly on edge, unsure of which of their fellow crewmates will suddenly transform into a grotesque monster. The movie is masterfully executed, and the excellent screenplay immerses the audience in the story, making them feel as if they are part of the team, trying to identify the "thing."
All in all, "The Thing" is undeniably one of the top horror films of the 20th century!
Next Goal Wins (2023)
Good Taika casual watch!
"Next Goal Wins" is a movie directed and co-written by Taika Waititi that tells the story of Dutch coach Thomas Rongen's mission to transform the American Samoa soccer team from perennial losers into winners. While the film has good intentions, it falls short in its attempt to impress the audience with clichés and crowd-pleasing moments that don't add much to the plot. Nonetheless, it remains an enjoyable movie that is perfect for unwinding without having to ponder over complex storylines or philosophical conflicts. "Next Goal Wins" follows a familiar formula for an inspirational sports movie, but its heartwarming message will still move you.
Django Unchained (2012)
Provoking, bloody Tarantino!
"Bold, bloody, and stylistically daring," "Django Unchained" is yet another masterpiece from the acclaimed director, Quentin Tarantino. The movie tells the story of a freed slave who enlists the help of a German bounty hunter to rescue his wife from a brutal Mississippi plantation owner.
The film is a visual spectacle, with stunning sets and memorable characters, all brought to life by Tarantino's unique directorial choices and a brilliantly written screenplay. Every scene is unpredictable, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats and showcasing Tarantino's trademark stunts.
In summary, "Django Unchained" is a bloody masterpiece that is sure to captivate and thrill audiences. It's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates bold, daring filmmaking and storytelling at its finest.
Nope (2022)
Great thriller, not much horror
"Nope" is a highly original and ambitious film that adds Spielbergian spectacle to Jordan Peele's repertoire. The movie is a masterpiece that deserves to be ranked alongside Peele's other gems, such as "Get Out." Daniel Kaluuya's acting in the movie is impressive, and he once again demonstrates his range as an actor under Peele's direction. Keke Palmer is also a standout in her supporting role.
The film's visuals are stunning and should be seen on the big screen to be fully appreciated. The attention to detail is impressive, and the production design is top-notch, making "Nope" Peele's best-looking movie to date.
While the concept of the movie is fascinating, the screenplay is inconsistent, with some story beats that don't seem to fit in this particular movie. However, this is a minor issue and does not detract from the overall quality of the film. The movie is a true Jordan Peele original and leaves a strong impression.
In summary, "Nope" is a must-watch film for fans of Jordan Peele's work. The movie is a visual treat and an excellent addition to Peele's body of work.
May December (2023)
Complex, intelligent, different!
May December is a cleverly crafted film that intertwines a serious storyline with a touch of humor, making it both captivating and unsettling. The movie is a testament to the exceptional skills of the director, Haynes, who has skillfully balanced the darkness and sadness with humor in a masterful way. The cast's performances are noteworthy, with Natalie Portman delivering a standout performance. However, the most impactful aspect of the movie is undoubtedly the screenplay. It doesn't rely on any action or special effects to make an impression. While the movie has a talented cast, some viewers may find its unconventional approach to a reality-inspired story frustrating.
The Hateful Eight (2015)
No one comes up here without a damn good reason.
Bounty hunters seek refuge from a raging blizzard and become embroiled in a complex plot of betrayal and deceit in "The Hateful Eight", Quentin Tarantino's eighth film. This movie showcases his signature blend of action, humor, and gratuitous violence, while demonstrating an even stronger grip on his craft. With a powerful storyline, outstanding performances, an almost-perfect score, and unforgettable characters brought to life by Tarantino's trademark dialogue and visuals, this movie is a true masterpiece. Despite being a bit slow-paced and not Tarantino's best work, it is still a highly entertaining film. "The Hateful Eight" is undeniable proof that Quentin Tarantino is a one-of-a-kind filmmaker whose work is both distinctive and captivating.
Sound of Freedom (2023)
Decent, but does not work for me.
"Sound of Freedom" is a gripping and thrilling movie that creates awareness about the issue of human trafficking. However, it has some shortcomings in its portrayal of the sensitive subject matter. While there are many stunning shots, there are also some that I dislike and some that fail to convey the intended message.
The screenplay is engaging and suspenseful, successfully depicting the depths of depravity that humans can reach. Despite not being terrible, the script is somewhat shallow and handles sensitive issues inappropriately, resulting in a few problematic scenes.
One issue is the pacing, which could have been improved. Another issue I had was with the score, which I felt was not appropriate for the movie's serious subject matter.
Despite its flaws, "Sound of Freedom" is a powerful movie that showcases strong performances and conveys an important message.
Scream VI (2023)
Good sequel!
While certain aspects of the horror franchise's most murderously meta iteration may be becoming stale, a change of setting and some innovative set pieces help to keep "Scream VI" reasonably sharp. The great thrills and respect for the original four make it a worthy addition to the franchise. I am not a huge fan of horror, but I liked this installment nonetheless! "Scream VI" has some scary and funny moments, but for me, the ending was very unsatisfying. The third act is not only bad in its screenplay but also in its visual and creative execution. However, this sequel is a total scream, building upon the requel and even improving on it with the lovable "core four" and some gnarly kills.
The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023)
Decent prequel!
The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes is a riveting return to Panem that boasts an exceptional cast and an exciting storyline. Despite a rushed and somewhat frustrating ending, the film does an excellent job of adapting the book and providing fans with a glimpse into how it all began.
This prequel throws the audience into the past, showcasing the beginning of the Hunger Games. While the story is well-crafted, it can feel inconsistent at times. However, the film's captivating visuals are the true highlight, with expertly chosen lighting, lenses, and angles adding depth and dimension to each shot.
Overall, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes is a worthy addition to the franchise that adds depth to a significant character. Fans of the series will be pleased to see how it all started and get a closer look at the world of Panem.
Batman Begins (2005)
A comic film for everyone!
Brooding and dark, but also exciting and smart, Batman Begins is a film that understands the essence of one of the definitive superheroes.
Christopher Nolan's trilogy for the "Prince of Gotham" arguably consists of the three best comic films ever created.
Christian Bale adaptes nicely in Batman's shoes, although whenever I see him, I think of Patrick Bateman.
Marvelous visuals and "New York on steroids" make Gotham look traumatizing and serve good for the movie's needs.
Good screenplay and a great director, but unfulfilling villains and action scenes (for me) - too closely shot - make "Batman Begins" the least good movie of the trilogy. Still GREAT!!
Expend4bles (2023)
Worst of the 4!
I mean, what did I just watch?
Unrealistic and cartoonish special effects, bad action, and terrible screenplay. The movie is undoubtedly unwatchable, even Stallone didn't want to be in it! Cringe Megan Fox, bad 50 Cent, and more are just part of the unmotivated cast. The shallow storyline and flat characters sunk the movie to the bottom. Jason Statham is somewhat good, but not enough to compromise for all the plot holes.
Also, the villains being just bad for the sake of being bad can tell a lot about the reason behind the making of a movie.
Solid work from Jason Statham and some halfway decent set pieces aren't enough to make up for Expend4bles' lackluster action and cheap-looking effects.
The Holdovers (2023)
Unexpectedly - a movie that makes you feel good!
Beautifully bittersweet, The Holdovers marks a satisfying return to form for director Alexander Payne.
We can talk all day about the cinematography, the editing, production design, and all of the good stuff about "The Holdovers", but we need to talk about the thing that could make the movie a Christmas classic - CHARACTERS!
On paper, the formula for great memorable characters is very simple. You write a great screenplay, then you cast some very talented actors who thrill with the screenplay and then you direct the movie in a way that lets us get in touch with them. That's what "The Holdovers" does very well. One of the best screenplays of the year and a phenomenon acting by Paul Giamatti, Da'Vine Joy Randolph (both Oscar nominees), and Dominic Sessa (his first credited performance)!
Cute and touching if not laugh-out-loud hilarious, The Holdovers is a thought-provoking dramedy for viewers seeking a dialogue-driven movie with a throwback feel.
Get Out (2017)
Award-Winning Horror and it is Jordan Peele!
Funny, scary, and thought-provoking, Get Out seamlessly weaves its trenchant social critiques into a brilliantly effective and entertaining horror/comedy thrill ride.
Jordan Peele creates a movie, while simultaneously inventing a new genre in cinema. It's a journey, no director has taken the audience so far. Editing, cinematography, colors, and decors are great, but what makes "Get Out" a phenomenon is the story. The screenplay is perfect. No empty space, no stuffing, just pure storytelling!
I am not a fan of the horror genre, but Jordan Peele's work doesn't use the usual jump-scares but is more focused on the psychological aspect of horror.
I would recommend "Get Out", not only to fans of "scary movies", but to anybody in love with cinema!
Past Lives (2023)
Three love stories in a single movie!
A remarkable debut for writer-director Celine Song, Past Lives uses the bonds between its sensitively sketched central characters to support trenchant observations on the human condition.
The performances here are mind blowing, from the beginning when Nora looks at the camera, to the end. A "camera look" is often used by filmmakers to interrupt the audience, but this time it felt more like a hook from the beginning.
Celina Song plays with colours in a very interesting way, some characters have firstly cold colours and on the way get warmer, other characters are vice versa.
Moving in its subtlety, Past Lives is a mature love story that feels powerfully real.
Nyad (2023)
Great performances, but not the best movie 🍿
Yeah, the performances are good, but did they deserve an Academy Award nomination? Doubt that. For example America Ferrera and Margot Robbie would have been somewhat competitive .
The screenplay is barely progressing, filled with excess stuff. Same thing happening again and again and again. Characters have little to none development.
Directing is nothing special, in fact some thing seem less intriguing than its cinematography.
It is a true story, truly remarkable for one, but I would have liked more focus on the swimming and its psychological effects, rather than just throwing the topical sex abuse.
Nyad is a movie to watch if you are looking for decent acting, "Never Give Up" story or because of the two Oscar nominations!