Sven's Watched in 2015
Films watched in 2015
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- DirectorD.J. CarusoStarsVal KilmerVincent D'OnofrioAdam GoldbergAfter a tragic incident, a man drifts into a world populated by thugs and speed junkies.Jan 1
This crime drama started out really promising. It was reminding of the style of Trainspotting which is high praise. Unfortunately it quickly devolved into a generic drama that I could barely keep my interest in. 6/10 - DirectorJohn CarpenterStarsKurt RussellKim CattrallDennis DunA rough-and-tumble trucker and his side kick face off with an ancient sorcerer in a supernatural battle beneath Chinatown.Jan 1
I'd forgotten how fun this movie is. Fun action thats better than i'd expect from a 1986 film. Most importantly it doesnt take itself too seriously. 8/10 - DirectorBarrett EspositoStarsRichard GereLuis GuzmánChazz PalminteriA young boy battling illness is taken on a magical adventure by a stranger named Henry. On their journey, the boy meets New York Yankee legends, both past and present, who give him lessons about baseball and life.Jan 1
Aside from basically being a Yankees promo, this was a surprisingly good animated film for something I'd never heard of. The quality of the animation was good. The story was basic but it was with the boy with cancer its hard not to connect emotionally to it. I also liked the nice short runtime. 7/10 - DirectorIsao TakahataStarsChloë Grace MoretzJames CaanMary SteenburgenKaguya is a beautiful young woman coveted by five nobles. To try to avoid marrying a stranger she doesn't love, she sends her suitors on seemingly impossible tasks. But she will have to face her fate and punishment for her choices.Jan 1
This is the first time I've watched a Ghibli film with this animation style. While its not as nice as the Miyaziki Ghibli films, it was still very nice to watch. As with all Ghibli, it has a really nice story. At 2 hours and 17 minutes it is far too long though. 7/10 - DirectorPaul GreengrassStarsMatt DamonFranka PotenteJoan AllenWhen Jason Bourne is framed for a CIA operation gone awry, he is forced to resume his former life as a trained assassin to survive.Jan 2
I somehow made the mistake and rewatched these out of order. I really like the story of this one and the intensity. The problem is the awful and overly distracting filming style. There is no excuse for a shaky camera for a scene where somebody is just sitting still talking on the phone. This could have been a high 8, but that style ruined it for me. 7/10 - DirectorIsao TakahataStarsTsutomu TatsumiAyano ShiraishiAkemi YamaguchiA young boy and his little sister struggle to survive in Japan during World War II.Jan 2
Not really a film for kids. Great, though overly depressing, wartime story. For an animated film it really hits on some heavy topics. The dark animation does a good job setting the tone. I think this is my favourite of the non Miyazaki Ghibli films. 8/10 - DirectorEdward BuzzellStarsGroucho MarxChico MarxHarpo MarxThe Marx Brothers come to the rescue in the Wild West when a young man, trying to settle an old family feud so he can marry the girl he loves, runs afoul of crooks.Jan 2
Typical Marx brothers humour throughout. Not their best film, but matches up pretty well. The con gags at the beginning were especially funny. 7/10 - DirectorGeorge LucasStarsMark HamillHarrison FordCarrie FisherLuke Skywalker joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a cocky pilot, a Wookiee and two droids to save the galaxy from the Empire's world-destroying battle station, while also attempting to rescue Princess Leia from the mysterious Darth Vader.Jan 3
Sawyer actually requested Star Wars this time! I guess he is learning to be a Star Wars fan early. I think I'm going to have to rewatch this every year with him. I see lots of animated Star Wars in my future. 10/10 - DirectorFred SchepisiStarsWill SmithStockard ChanningDonald SutherlandAn affluent New York City couple finds their lives touched, intruded upon, and compelled by a mysterious young black man who is never quite who he says he is.Jan 4
A con man story that cons the audience into believing it's the plot they care about. The seemingly plot driven film gradually reveals itself to be all about the characters with the plot simply being incidental. This film has been on my radar for a long time but it turns out I never knew what it was about. I went into it expecting a romantic comedy. Aside from a few scenes that were played a bit too goofy it was a well acted film with an amazing cast. 8/10 - DirectorDavid WnendtStarsCarla JuriChristoph LetkowskiMarlen KruseThe adventures of an eccentric girl who has strange attitudes towards hygiene and sexuality longs for the reunion of her divorced parents.Jan 4
Wow. What a seriously messed up lead character. The crazy parts were really something. There were parts where I was just waiting for another crazy part to come. I wish it could have kept that level of weird going for the entire film. When it did get back to crazy it really went there! There need to be more movies like this. I guess the main thing lacking here was the story. With a better story or maybe just better supporting characters, it could have turned into a classic in the wtf way. As is it doesnt quite live up to the best of that 'genre' like Visitor Q. 7/10 - DirectorLewis AbernathyStarsTerri TreasWilliam KattScott BurkholderRoger Cobb (William Katt) is killed in a car accident. His family must move into the house that has haunted him for several years. Soon the family begins to experience scary and unexplained phenomena.Jan 4
You know the movie is going to be dated when it, with zero irony, starts with a line like "you know Roger there is a new invention. It's called video tape!" I watched the House movies when I was younger. I wish I'd remembered that it was only the first one that was good. This was much better than the 3rd one because it got back to being about the house and even brought back William Katt. None of that could save it from the ridiculous and over the top characters. 5/10 - DirectorWes CravenStarsChristina RicciJesse EisenbergPortia de RossiA werewolf loose in Los Angeles changes the lives of three young adults who, after being mauled by the beast, learn they must kill it in order to avoid becoming werewolves themselves.Jan 4
Based on the cast and the overall quality of this film it seems like it should have been higher profile. I'm guessing it wasnt because I dont even remember hearing about it. Perhaps it came out when I was in Japan. Surprisingly strong cast for a horror film. The effects were a bit lacking, though the simple, yet effective story made up for it. 7/10 - DirectorThomas CarterStarsRobert Sean LeonardChristian BaleFrank WhaleyA group of teens adores forbidden music in Nazi Germany just before the outbreak of World War II.Jan 5
Story of Nazi's and some of the resistant German youth. It was much more about the individual characters than the story of the swing kids. The scenes of swing dancing were kept to a minimum to allow for the characters stories to be more fully explored. Even though he was only 19 at the time, Christian Bale looked far too old to be believable as a teen. Overall a good Nazi war time story, but it can't match up to so many others. The story was not big enough to be memorable. Some of the individual's stories were emotional; I only wish they'd covered more of the big story to add to the effect of it all. 7/10 - DirectorDearbhla WalshStarsJames CordenSalo GardnerDustin HoffmanA retired bachelor has a thing for his neighbor who only shows affection to her pet tortoise.Jan 5
Another delightfully quirky Roald Dahl story. While this story is much smaller and simpler than Willy Wonka or even Matilda, it was very charming. The premise itself is enough to make the film, but on top of that Dench and Hoffman were both good in their roles. 7/10 - DirectorMorten TyldumStarsBenedict CumberbatchKeira KnightleyMatthew GoodeDuring World War II, the English mathematical genius Alan Turing tries to crack the German Enigma code with help from fellow mathematicians while attempting to come to terms with his troubled private life.Jan 6
I'm glad I went into this knowing very little about the true story upon which it is based. It is an extremely interesting story that was so well told here that I just wanted more. From what I've heard now about the true story it sounds like there were some details left out that could have made it even better. I wish they'd made it a 3 hour film and added in more details. Not my fave film of the year though I'll be happy to see it get lots of nominations when the announcement comes next week. Yet another film better than the current critic fave Boyhood, and a lead performance better than the critic fave Michael Keaton. 8/10 - DirectorMark SandrichStarsClaudette ColbertPaulette GoddardVeronica LakeA group of nurses returning from the war in the Philippines recall their experiences in combat and in love.Jan 7
My excitement to watch this film based on the cast (Paulette Goddard, Claudette Colbert and Veronica Lake) dwindled quickly as the film went on. Decent enough performances, but I couldnt seem to care about the story at all. 6/10 - DirectorPeter JacksonStarsIan McKellenMartin FreemanRichard ArmitageBilbo Baggins and company are forced to engage in a war against an array of combatants and keep the Lonely Mountain from falling into the hands of a rising darkness.Jan 7
For the final film in what is basically a 6 movie epic of about 20 hours, this was very disappointing. Perhaps I should have rewatched the first 2 hobbit films before watching this one because I couldnt get into most of the characters. However, the LOTR films were strong enough to have any of the 3 films stand alone to a certain extent. The best part of this film was the battle which was far too similar to one of the battles from the LOTR films to be worthy of much praise. All in all it was just not an epic enough conclusion to the series. If they'd stuck to one or even two films for the Hobbit it would have been much better. 7/10 - DirectorApril MullenStarsKatharine IsabelleChristopher LloydTim DoironA young woman comes to in a roadside diner with no idea where she is or how she got there. Split between two timelines, she gets taken on a violent journey as she seeks out the person responsible for her lover's death.Jan 7
I thought I'd give this a chance even though it has a low rating, just because it has Katharine Isabelle and Christopher Lloyd in it. The dual timelines sounded like a good idea from the description but it didnt turn out to be anything creative at all. Just a series of flashbacks really. The good casting didnt rescue the blah story in the least. 4/10 - DirectorAdrian Garcia BoglianoStarsNick DamiciEthan EmbryLance GuestWhen deadly beasts attack from the forest, it is up to a grizzled veteran to uncover what the residents of a secluded retirement community are hiding.Jan 8
Overall a pretty typical werewolf film, but it was made interesting by the fact that the lead character was blind. This detail added another level of mystery to the story. Oftentimes werewolf films show the wolves sniffing out their prey, so this was a good turn of events having the hunter sniffing out the werewolves. Aside from the significant wait time between attacks, I rather enjoyed the film. 7/10 - DirectorRoger AllersJill CultonAnthony StacchiStarsAshton KutcherMartin LawrenceDebra MessingBoog, a domesticated 900lb. Grizzly bear, finds himself stranded in the woods 3 days before Open Season. Forced to rely on Elliot, a fast-talking mule deer, the two form an unlikely friendship and must quickly rally other forest animals if they are to form a rag-tag army against the hunters.Jan 8
More ugly human character design. Perhaps that was the point since it was showing the humans as the villains. The animal character design was fine though. Not one of the best animated films, but not so bad either. I'll probably give the sequels a chance though I doubt they'll be as 'good' as this one. 6/10 - DirectorMel StuartStarsGene WilderJack AlbertsonPeter OstrumA poor but hopeful boy seeks one of the five coveted golden tickets that will send him on a tour of Willy Wonka's mysterious chocolate factory.Jan 8
Classic film in so many ways. Love the songs and the characters. Sawyer really enjoyed it this time around too so I think I might end up seeing it over and over now. 8/10 - DirectorStuart RosenbergStarsRobert RedfordYaphet KottoMorgan FreemanThe new warden of a small prison farm in Arkansas tries to clean it up of corruption after initially posing as an inmate.Jan 9
I was shocked to see there was a prison film I'd never seen with Robert Redford and Morgan Freeman. It was building up nicely starting with a very strong premise, but didnt go where I wanted it to go. Lots of opportunities missed to show a crooked prison cleaned up. Especially when it is only loosely based on reality anyhow. This is an example where I wish they'd gone more Hollywood. 7/10 - DirectorRoy RowlandStarsPeter Lind HayesMary HealyHans ConriedA young boy dreams that he is in an imaginary world where, assisted by his family's plumber, he must save other piano-playing kids like himself from the dungeons of his dictatorial piano teacher who also mind-controls his mother.Jan 9
I got this film from a list of WTF films. It certainly was that. Not necessarily in a good way though. It felt like the weird Oompa Loompa scenes from Willy Wonka stretched into an entire film. The style was pretty odd as the sets were minimalistic with no real backgrounds for most of the film. This was probably because it was mostly in a dream state. Most of the film felt like it was written by a kid, again likely because it was a kids dream. Interesting but not what I was hoping for. 6/10 - DirectorMatthew O'CallaghanTodd WildermanStarsJoel McHaleMike EppsJane KrakowskiAfter falling head over hooves in love with Giselle, Elliot's road to the altar takes a slight detour when Mr. Weenie is 'kidnapped' by his human owners. A rescue mission starts. Oh, and there's also a group of pampered pets.Jan 9
Very much like the first one. Good animation for most of the animals and bad for the humans. Not as good story as the first. Clearly the animators don't like cats. All the dogs looked cute and the cats looked really ugly. 5/10 - DirectorLana WachowskiLilly WachowskiStarsKeanu ReevesLaurence FishburneCarrie-Anne MossWhen a beautiful stranger leads computer hacker Neo to a forbidding underworld, he discovers the shocking truth--the life he knows is the elaborate deception of an evil cyber-intelligence.Jan 9
I've been wanting to rewatch this for a long time. It was a breakthrough film when it was released and it still holds up nicely. Aside from a few parts where it could use some cgi updating, its still better than most. The story could still work now without any real changes. One thing that seemed different this time around was that Neo doesnt seem as cool as he did before. I guess Keanu's rep just isnt so hot nowadays. Interesting that there are 2 cast members in common with this and Memento. 9/10 - DirectorRupert WyattStarsMark WahlbergJessica LangeJohn GoodmanLiterature professor and gambler Jim Bennett's debt causes him to borrow money from his mother and a loan shark. Further complicating his situation, is his relationship with one of his students. Will Bennett risk his life for a second chance?Jan 9
A bit of a slow drive to get started. Just when it started building up to a good climax, it decided to slow back down rather than deliver. Wahlberg's performance was lackluster, but thats more the character than him. All of the growth that his character goes through felt manufactured rather than genuine, so the would be emotional ending was empty. 6/10 - DirectorBradley KingStarsDanielle PanabakerMatt O'LearyGeorge FinnThree friends discover a mysterious machine that takes pictures twenty-four hours into the future, and conspire to use it for personal gain, until disturbing and dangerous images begin to develop.Jan 9
Had the potential to be so much more. It redeemed itself somewhat at the end but for awhile it was annoying to think of all the stupid mistakes they were making and how easy it would be to make smarter decisions. Had somewhat the same feel as Triangle but nowhere near as smart. 7/10 - DirectorCody CameronStarsMatthew J. MunnNika FuttermanMaddie TaylorBoog's friends rally to bring him home from a Russian traveling circus.Jan 10
Worse than the first 2 in story, voice talent and characters. I can see why they couldnt get the voice talent to return. In fact it seems that the characters were voiced by different people in each of the 3 films. 4/10 - DirectorMitchell LeisenStarsCharles BoyerOlivia de HavillandPaulette GoddardStopped in Mexico by U.S. Immigration, Georges Iscovescu hopes to get into the country by marrying a citizen.Jan 10
Good cast, but overall underwhelming film. If there was more to the story then it might have held my attention better. With the kids being left along in Mexico near the beginning of the film, I was expecting it to go a whole other direction. Perhaps I was just disappointed it didnt go that way. 5/10 - DirectorNiall JohnsonStarsRowan AtkinsonKristin Scott ThomasMaggie SmithA pastor preoccupied with writing the perfect sermon fails to realize that his wife is having an affair, and his children are up to no good.Jan 11
Fun British (slightly) dark comedy. I decided to watch it in large part because of Rowan Atkinson. His character was entertaining, but not the driving force behind the film. The story of his family and him not noticing everything they are doing around him would have made for a decent comedy on its own, but the addition of the housekeeper and her story really made the film something much more. 7/10 - DirectorPeter ChelsomStarsSimon PeggRosamund PikeTracy-Ann ObermanA psychiatrist searches the globe to find the secret of happiness.Jan 11
Much like Walter Mitty this had loads of potential that it couldnt fully deliver on. Some funny bits, and enough emotional impact to get by. Not a bad film, though far from what I hoped it would be. 7/10 - DirectorChristopher DenhamStarsWrenn SchmidtPablo SchreiberAaron StatonAn anesthesiologist must awaken her animal instincts when she, her husband and her brother-in-law become the quarry of unseen hunters who want to turn them all into trophies.Jan 11
Pretty good as survival horror goes. Plenty of need/opportunity to suspend disbelief. Each of them, antagonists and protagonists alike, had conveniently missed chances to kill eachother. The small cast shouldnt have allowed for the film to hold my attention as well as it did. Even though there were so few to be killed on either side, the style (no words spoken for a long stretch ) made it intriguing. 7/10 - DirectorClint EastwoodStarsBradley CooperSienna MillerKyle GallnerNavy S.E.A.L. sniper Chris Kyle's pinpoint accuracy saves countless lives on the battlefield and turns him into a legend. Back home with his family after four tours of duty, however, Chris finds that it is the war he can't leave behind.Jan 12
So many American war story films play up the pro America angle to an almost sickening point (much like the poster for this film). I didnt get that from watching this film though. It might have been there, but Eastwood built up the lead character quite well and told the story in a way that drew me in effectively. That being said, I didnt entirely buy the nice guy routine from the main character as a real life person. The fact that it was based on a true story might have hurt it a bit. I think the story would have worked more effectively as a single tour rather than slowing down the action and intensity each time he came home between tours. 8/10 - DirectorMervyn LeRoyStarsAndy GriffithMyron McCormickNick AdamsWill Stockdale is a country bumpkin drafted into the Air Force and too dumb to realize he's driving everyone around him crazy, no one more than Sergeant King.Jan 13
Very early Andy Griffith comedy from before the Andy Griffith Show. Seems like this could have been an inspiration for Gomer Pyle. A dumb farmer and his socially awkward friend struggle through basic training by doing everything wrong and being lucky. This story would make for a good remake. 6/10 - DirectorJaume BalagueróStarsManuela VelascoPaco ManzanedoHéctor ColoméAn ill-fated television reporter is rescued and sent on a voyage across the ocean, but she is followed by the deadly virus that has plagued her and numerous others.Jan 13
Not as good as the 3rd, but thankfully not shaky camera. Average action and a creepy worm thing, but I missed the blood splattered wedding dress of the 3rd film. 5/10 - DirectorLynn SheltonStarsKeira KnightleyChloë Grace MoretzSam RockwellIn the throes of a quarter-life crisis, Megan panics when her boyfriend proposes. She takes an opportunity to escape for a week, hiding out in the house of her new 16-year-old friend Annika and her world-weary single dad.Jan 13
I wish I'd been able to see the premiere of this at Tiff because Chloe Grace Moretz was there. Aside from that it was a perfectly fine film to miss seeing at tiff. The performances and characters were effective. The story was fine, just too slow moving to make for a really memorable film. With a smarter script it could have been much better. 6/10 - DirectorKenneth BranaghStarsHugh LaurieStephen FryEmma ThompsonSix former college friends, with two new friends, gather for a New Year's Eve weekend reunion at a large English countryside manor after ten years to reminisce about the good times now long gone.Jan 14
Aside from the dialogue delivery sounding far too much like a stage play, this was a rather enjoyable character driven film. The cast of characters was diverse both physically and in personality. A huge soundtrack of 80s music, and a smart script on top of the good characters had me really into it. If the performances were less broadway it might have been a modern classic. 7/10 - DirectorNoah BaumbachStarsJosh HamiltonEric StoltzSamuel GouldA bunch of guys hang around their college for months after graduation, continuing a life much like the one before graduation.Jan 14
Another film where the performances all but ruined it for me. The acting was about as bad as in Clerks, but the production values were much higher. The script was decent, including a few laugh out loud moments. It was too hard to get past the acting because, unlike Clerks, these performances did not match the quality of the film. 6/10 - DirectorChad StahelskiStarsKeanu ReevesMichael NyqvistAlfie AllenAn ex-hitman comes out of retirement to track down the gangsters who killed his dog and stole his car.Jan 14
Great action scenes that are deserving of the comparison to The Raid that I read awhile back. It was the pacing of all the stuff in between the action scenes combined with the subpar writing and acting that kept it from being the great action film that it should have been. 7/10 - DirectorJimmy HaywardSteve MartinoStarsJim CarreySteve CarellCarol BurnettHorton the Elephant struggles to protect a microscopic community from his neighbors who refuse to believe it exists.Jan 15
I don't get how this has a 6.9 on imdb! I didnt watch it up til now because I expected it to be bad. Then I saw the rating and thought I'd give it a try. Not the worst animated film, but none of the characters are drawn to be likable, the voices were annoying and it dragged on and on for a film thats not even 90 mins long. Aside from the characters the animation was nice with vivid colours. Thats about the only good thing I can saw though. 3/10 - DirectorLluís QuílezStarsJulia StilesScott SpeedmanStephen ReaA couple and their daughter move to Colombia to take over a family manufacturing plant, only to realize their new home is haunted.Jan 15
This is currently a bit of an under rated film on imdb at 4.7. I can see why its not getting rave reviews, but it was more than passable for a horror movie of this type. Very typical with no real surprises, but sometimes thats ok when you are just in the mood for horror. I only gave it a chance because of the cast and I don't regret having watched it. 6/10 - DirectorTim BurtonStarsAmy AdamsChristoph WaltzDanny HustonA drama about the awakening of painter Margaret Keane, her phenomenal success in the 1950s, and the subsequent legal difficulties she had with her husband, who claimed credit for her works in the 1960s.Jan 16
So much better than I expected it to be. Its an interesting true story with some elements that are too weird to be true. Turns out some of the most fantastical elements, specifically the courtroom scene, are actually accurate. Waltz's performance was about as good as every other he's done before, though the character wasnt as deep as some of his best work. Amy Adams performance was also great, but with all the other strong performances last year, I'm not surprised neither were nominated. 8/10 - DirectorFrank NissenStarsJim CummingsBrenda BlethynKyle StangerWhen Roo sets off on his own into the Hundred Acre Wood, he discovers a friendly and playful Heffalump named Lumpy.Jan 16
Winnie the Pooh stories are always cute, even if not so great. This one was much better than expected. The heffalump character was cute and not at all annoying like so many new characters are. I think the British accent sells it more than anything. 7/10 - DirectorSimon J. SmithSteve HicknerStarsJerry SeinfeldRenée ZellwegerMatthew BroderickBarry B. Benson, a bee just graduated from college, is disillusioned at his lone career choice: making honey. On a special trip outside the hive, Barry's life is saved by Vanessa, a florist in New York City. As their relationship blossoms, he discovers humans actually eat honey and subsequently decides to sue them.Jan 16
Another animated film I avoided because I didnt expect to like. I don't like the animation so much, but the story and voices were really good. Seinfeld should do more, whether it be live action or animated. There were a few really lame jokes, but not enough to seriously affect the enjoyment. 7/10 - DirectorRobert AldrichStarsBette DavisJoan CrawfordVictor BuonoA former child star torments her paraplegic sister in their decaying Hollywood mansion.Jan 17
I thought I'd seen this before but nothing seemed familiar and the one scene I thought I remembered never happened. It really was a great horror with an almost Misery style to it. Could be career best performances from a couple always great actresses. Deep, though not consistent, in style with some of the choices to have the person speaking off camera and subtle yet significant musical queues. Had this level of style been used more consistently throughout the film I would have rated it even higher. 8/10 - DirectorJeremy PodeswaStarsStephen DillaneRade SerbedzijaRosamund PikeA child escapes from Poland during World War II and first heads to Greece before coming of age in Canada.Jan 17
Very emotionally powerful Canadian film about a boy who escapes Poland during the war and about all the people he loves throughout his life. The young Jakob's performance was effectively tragic and depressing. There are plenty of recognizable actors in the film all directed to subtle and emotional performances. I'm surprised this director hasnt made any more films after this one. In fact this is the only film he has made since the late 90s. It is a slow moving film, but with plenty of emotion to keep it moving. If you don't connect to Jakobs emotion then the film probably won't do much for you though. 8/10 - DirectorChristopher MenaulStarsDominic CooperEmily BrowningDan StevensA true tale of love, liberty and scandal amongst the Edwardian artists' colony in Cornwall in 1914.Jan 17
A film about painters that does a poor job at manufacturing emotion. Having just watched another film with loads of genuine emotion and a better film about painters this film just didn't work in either way. The only thing I enjoyed at all about it was Browning. 5/10 - DirectorTim JohnsonKarey KirkpatrickStarsBruce WillisGarry ShandlingSteve CarellA scheming raccoon fools a mismatched family of forest creatures into helping him repay a debt of food, by invading the new suburban sprawl that popped up while they were hibernating...and learns a lesson about family himself.Jan 17
Lots of funny characters with great celeb voicing. Very simplistic story that works. 7/10 - DirectorDamien ChazelleStarsMiles TellerJ.K. SimmonsMelissa BenoistA promising young drummer enrolls at a cut-throat music conservatory where his dreams of greatness are mentored by an instructor who will stop at nothing to realize a student's potential.Jan 17
I enjoyed this film enough at tiff that I wanted to watch it again now even knowing that I'll be seeing it again in just over a month for Oscar movie day. Its like a great sports film except with music and 2 virtuoso acting performances. There is little doubt that Simmons will win best supporting actor, and in another year Teller could have been nominated as well. I didnt realize it the first time I saw it, but Simmons performance is practically lifted from the drill sergeant from Full Metal Jacket. That is definitely a good thing. Creative camera work, and some unpredictable story points. All that would be great no matter what, but add all that to the wonderful pacing and youve got an amazing film.
Moving up my rating a point. Not surprised to see that this has made its way into the top 50 on imdb. Its continuing to move up that list too. When I checked a few days ago it was at 50, yesterday at 49 and now today its at 42. Thats 50 better than any of the other films nominated for best pic. Too bad it has so little chance to actually win. This is my fav of the nominated films. I'm strongly considering a 10 for this, but will reserve that potential for the 3rd viewing next month. 9/10 - DirectorJ.C. ChandorStarsOscar IsaacJessica ChastainDavid OyelowoIn New York City 1981, an ambitious immigrant fights to protect his business and family during the most dangerous year in the city's history.Jan 17
The trailer and title of this film are very misleading. This was a very long and drawn out film with very little action. As far as mobster movies go this is one of the least exciting I've seen. Jessica Chastain was good, but I'm not surprised she missed out on a nomination as most voters were likely too bored to watch the whole film. 4/10 - DirectorPaul Thomas AndersonStarsJoaquin PhoenixJosh BrolinOwen WilsonIn 1970, drug-fueled Los Angeles private investigator Larry "Doc" Sportello investigates the disappearance of a former girlfriend.Jan 18
PTA was one of my fav directors. I don't think I can consider him as that anymore. He has now transitioned to a completely different (lack of) style. The story was a bit more interested here than in the Master, but the pacing was just as painfully slow. Both Boogie Nights and Magnolia leave me wanting more even after 2.5-3 hours. With The Master and Inherent Vice it was quite the opposite, I couldnt wait for the movie to end. Phoenix's presence didnt help either as he is generally a very unlikable person. 5/10 - DirectorBaltasar KormákurStarsMaría Fernández AcheKharl Anton LeighPeter CoyoteA husband and wife tangle with an investigator over her dead brother's million-dollar insurance policy.Jan 18
Another film that I watched just because of the cast. I was only expecting Julia Stiles and Forrest Whittaker, so I was pleasantly surprised when I saw Jeremy Renner pop up. A different angle on a con man story. Not a great film overall, but enjoyable enough. 5/10 - DirectorWilliam A. SeiterStarsGroucho MarxHarpo MarxChico MarxA penniless theatrical producer must outwit the hotel efficiency expert trying to evict him from his room, while securing a backer for his new play.Jan 18
One of the least funny Marx Brothers films I've seen. Had a couple funny bits and a whole lot of blah. I think it's because this was adapted from an existing play rather than written specifically for them. 5/10 - DirectorDerek CianfranceStarsRyan GoslingBradley CooperEva MendesTwo men and their sons must deal with the unforeseen consequences of their actions.Jan 19
Still one of my favourite movies. The story is deeply emotional and the set up of it is very unique. Every performance is spot on. 9/10 - DirectorNicolas Winding RefnStarsRyan GoslingKristin Scott ThomasVithaya PansringarmJulian, a drug-smuggler thriving in Bangkok's criminal underworld, sees his life get even more complicated when his mother compels him to find and kill whoever is responsible for his brother's recent death.Jan 19
Didn't hold up as well as I'd hoped. The style was still great to look at with the beautiful sets. The pacing felt much slower the 2nd time around and it was already slow to start with. 7/10 - DirectorJoseph L. MankiewiczStarsBette DavisAnne BaxterGeorge SandersA seemingly timid but secretly ruthless ingénue insinuates herself into the lives of an aging Broadway star and her circle of theater friends.Jan 19
Another Bette Davis classic that I was sure that I'd seen. Seems that I must not have seen it before because nothing was familiar about it. Not as good as whatever happened to baby Jane. It was just a little too straightforward, nothing really special. The strong performances carried it well enough though. 6/10 - DirectorAngelina JolieStarsJack O'ConnellMiyaviDomhnall GleesonAfter a near-fatal plane crash in WWII, Olympian Louis Zamperini spends a harrowing 47 days in a raft with two fellow crewmen before he's caught by the Japanese navy and sent to a prisoner-of-war camp.Jan 20
Several parts of the film would've made for a full movie on their own and together they made for a great story. If not for some of the slow parts of the film and some scenes where the directors inexperience in that role came through, this could've been a much better film. The inconsistent pacing could've been fixed by editing out another 30 to 40 minutes of the movie. 7/10 - DirectorEdward BuzzellStarsGroucho MarxChico MarxHarpo MarxThe Marx Brothers try to help the owner of a circus recover some stolen funds before he finds himself out of a job.Jan 20
I really do like musicals though I find that for the most part the songs in Marx brothers movies only serve to slow down the humour. I've always enjoyed the dialogue in Marx brothers films more than the physical comedy and this film is no exception. Some of the physical humor was too far over-the-top for me. 6/10 - DirectorPaul W.S. AndersonStarsLaurence FishburneSam NeillKathleen QuinlanA rescue crew is tasked with investigating the mysterious reappearance of a spaceship that had been lost for seven years.Jan 21
Cool sci-fi/horror storyline. With a special effects upgrade it could stand up to today's sci fi. Not sure why I didnt enjoy this more the first time I saw it years back. Might have watched it recently enough to be turned off by the effects. I think that they were kind of weak even for 97. 7/10 - DirectorJustin SimienStarsTyler James WilliamsTessa ThompsonKyle GallnerThe lives of four black students at an Ivy League college.Jan 21
I actually thought that this was going to be more of a comedy and less of a statement. It wasnt funny at all, and was thick with in your face (yet hollow) messages about racism. At the very least they could have done something eye opening, or some role reversal, but it was just the completely standard message without much heart behind it. 3/10 - DirectorDon HallChris WilliamsStarsRyan PotterScott AdsitJamie ChungA special bond develops between plus-sized inflatable robot Baymax and prodigy Hiro Hamada, who together team up with a group of friends to form a band of high-tech heroes.Jan 21
I looked up what the characters from the Marvel comic looked like and I'd say they made huge improvements in this film. Doesnt seem like Baymax would have worked very well for kids as the big green monster that he was. The cutesy design of him for this movie is what really makes it work. We enjoyed it even more the 2nd time around. 8/10 - DirectorGeorge A. RomeroStarsJohn AmplasLincoln MaazelChristine ForrestA young man, who believes himself to be a vampire, goes to live with his elderly and hostile cousin in a Pennsylvania small town where he tries to redeem his blood-craving urges.Jan 21
Early horror from George A Romero. It's pacing is slow even for a 70s horror film. A couple good elements, like him calling into the radio show and them talking about him on the radio show during the closing credits. Overall it was just too slow moving and nothing too special to speak of. 5/10 - DirectorNicolas Winding RefnStarsRyan GoslingCarey MulliganBryan CranstonA mysterious Hollywood action film stuntman gets in trouble with gangsters when he tries to help his neighbor's husband rob a pawn shop while serving as his getaway driver.Jan 21
I've been saying I'll give this film another chance since I first watched back when it first came out. Finally got around to rewatching it and I'm glad I did. Not sure what I wasnt so thrilled with the first time. It is a bit slow moving in parts, but the style and music more than make up for that. I loved the characters and the soundtrack keeps it pumping (except for the one slow song near the end that sounds very out of place). 9/10 - DirectorBrin HillStarsMichael Stahl-DavidZoe KazanMark FeuersteinTwo seemingly unconnected souls from different corners of the United States make a telepathic bond that allows them to see, hear and feel the other's experiences, creating a bond that apparently can't be broken.Jan 21
With a premise like this, it could have gone either way. I kinda thought that it would go in the super lame direction, but gave it a chance because of Zoe Kazan and the fact that its written by Joss Whedon. It was pretty goofy, but charming enough to balance that out. 7/10 - DirectorJean-Marc ValléeStarsReese WitherspoonLaura DernGaby HoffmannA chronicle of one woman's 1,100-mile solo hike undertaken as a way to recover from a recent personal tragedy.Jan 21
As expected, it was similar to Tracks. Wild was a bit better with some of the extra characters she encounters along the way. Unfortunately most of the film dragged on and only had her uninteresting internal dialogue. 6/10 - DirectorWill FinnDaniel St. PierreStarsLea MicheleKelsey GrammerDan AykroydShortly after a tornado rips through her Kansas home, Dorothy returns to Oz to save her friends from a villainous jester.Jan 22
I love the Wizard of Oz so I really wanted this to be better. Can't really say I'm surprised that it was bad though. Tons of lame character designs, and everything was over the top silly. Very little about the film was appealing for adult viewers. 4/10 - DirectorPaul LeniStarsLaura La PlanteCreighton HaleForrest StanleyRelatives of an eccentric millionaire gather in his spooky mansion on the 20th anniversary of his death for the reading of his will.Jan 23
Silent horror doesnt always work so well, especially since the version I watched didnt even have the musical accompaniment. This one was decent enough with its story that had some strong similarities to House on Haunted Hill. I only wish that it had some more horror to it. 6/10 - DirectorSam FellRobert StevenhagenStarsMatthew BroderickEmma WatsonDustin HoffmanAn unusually brave mouse helps to restore happiness to a forlorn kingdom after making friends with a gentleman rat.Jan 23
Cute character and a mostly satisfying story. I didnt really care for the weird fruit and vegetable character, but pretty much everything else was good. 7/10 - DirectorAntti-Jussi AnnilaStarsVille VirtanenTommi EronenViktor KlimenkoAs a 25-year war between Russia and Sweden concludes, two brothers who are part of an effort to outline new border accords become undone by their actions, and their mistreatment of a young woman during their journey.Jan 23
I was completely underwhelmed by this film in every way. It was slow moving, and everything felt pointless to me. A couple creepy scenes that didnt make up for my boredom with the rest. 4/10 - DirectorHugh SullivanStarsJosh McConvilleHannah MarshallAlex DimitriadesA man's attempt to construct the ultimate romantic weekend backfires when his quest for perfection traps his lover in an infinite loop.Jan 23
The start of the film seemed pretty bad, and took awhile to get going. Once it did get going it kept getting better and better all the way til the end. All the overlapping levels were somewhat confusing, but not so much to slow it down in the least. The humour added a bit to it as well. 9/10 - DirectorSarik AndreasyanStarsHayden ChristensenEarl MinorAdrien BrodyJames owes his life to his older brother, Frankie after taking the rap for a crime they committed together. While Frankie served time, James worked to turn his life around, got a steady job and began courting his former girlfriend Emily. Now, Frankie is released and back on the streets with no money and no place to go.Jan 23
Far too much time was spent on the buildup. The actual heist part of the film was the only part worth watching. The fact that I wasnt able to connect to any of the characters is in large part thanks to the miscasting of all the lead roles. Add to that an ending that has countless holes in it and youve got a lost opportunity of a film. I'm only scoring it as high as I am because the heist was enjoyable. 5/10 - DirectorSara ColangeloStarsBoyd HolbrookRandy SpringerJacob LoflandIn a small American town still living in the shadow of a terrible coal mine accident, the disappearance of a teenage boy draws together a surviving miner, the lonely wife of a mine executive, and a local boy in a web of secrets.Jan 24
Slow moving, yet sufficiently emotional, character driven drama. All the story was put up front and then from there it was just watching the characters live with what has happened. No big reveals or twists anywhere throughout the film, totally just characters doing what they do. If they emotion, driven very well by the score, wasnt there it would have been a complete bore. 7/10 - DirectorTara MieleStarsLaura WigginsIzabella MikoCallie ThorneA 17-year-old dancer joins a "thinspiration" website and devotes herself to the almost religious glorification of "thin", until she becomes completely possessed by the dark world of anorexia.Jan 24
I don't know how this ended up on my watchlist, but it never should have been there. I'd say it was bad like a Lifetime movie of the week, but thats exactly what it was. The story was fine, but was done much better in Men, Women and Children. 4/10 - DirectorIsrael HorovitzStarsKevin KlineKristin Scott ThomasMaggie SmithAn American inherits an apartment in Paris that comes with an unexpected resident.Jan 24
I should have avoided watching this knowing that it was geared towards a much older audience. Not a bad film, thanks to the performances, but just didnt interest me in the least. 5/10 - DirectorNacho VigalondoStarsKarra ElejaldeCandela FernándezBárbara GoenagaA man accidentally gets into a time machine and travels back in time nearly an hour. Finding himself will be the first of a series of disasters of unforeseeable consequences.Jan 25
I felt like rewatching this after seeing the Infinite Man. Each of them have their strong points. If Infinite Man had the acting from this film it could have been perfect. Timecrimes could have been even better with more layers in the loop. We need more films of this style. 9/10 - DirectorOlivier MegatonStarsLiam NeesonForest WhitakerMaggie GraceAccused of a ruthless murder he never committed or witnessed, Bryan Mills goes on the run and brings out his particular set of skills to find the true killer and clear his name.Jan 25
Seeing the reviews (10% on rotten tomatoes!!!) I had my expectations set pretty low going into this. The first 20-30 before the action really started had me thinking it was going to live up to that 10% rating. The dialogue delivery could best be compared to a bad soap opera. Once the action came it was enjoyable. To answer to the critics, yes there were huge plot holes, yes the acting was weak and yes the action was a little too over the top. Since when did those become surprising for a mindless action film. It's ok to enjoy a bad movie now and then, and this isnt even quite a bad movie. It should also be noted that the change in plot was a welcome one since it wasn't actually about somebody being taken in the way it was in the first 2 films. 6/10 - DirectorBarry LevinsonStarsAl PacinoGreta GerwigNina AriandaA stage actor who is slowly losing his mind engages in a relationship with a sexually confused younger woman.Jan 25
Another film I'm really glad I didnt waste a tiff ticket on. None of the characters were the least bit likable and the story didnt work without caring for the characters. Some similarities to Birdman, and watching this made me realize how much better Birdman really is. The comedic elements didnt work for me at all. I could picture the 60 somethings laughing like crazy though. 3/10 - DirectorStuart AcherStarsMadeline ZimaJoel David MooreAbraham BenrubiStuck in a traffic jam after a one night stand a guy and girl recount the night before through flashbacks.Jan 25
Almost the entire film is with only the 2 leads. I didnt care about them in the boring traffic jam or in the flashbacks of them getting together. A story like this only works if there is proper chemistry with the 2 leads. In this case there wasnt at all, even when you're supposed to believe it at the end. Two Night Stand succeeded where this failed. 4/10 - DirectorLuis BuñuelStarsGaston ModotLya LysCaridad de LaberdesqueA surrealist tale of a man and a woman who are passionately in love with each other, but their attempts to consummate that passion are constantly thwarted by their families, the Church, and bourgeois society.Jan 25
I seem to enjoy silent era surreal films much more than modern ones(except for Guy Maddin which are silent era style). This isn't actually a silent film but it has that same style. The poster for this film says it's his most scandalous film yet. I guess that makes sense since it involves hitting women, kicking dogs and shooting kids. If never watch this film again, but the style was enjoyable. 6/10 - DirectorGodfrey GraysonStarsEdward RigbyHenry MollisonMercy HaysteadA British nobleman who has spent the majority of his life running a tropical island returns to England. He finds that an island princess has fallen in love with his butler. Finding that unseemly, he sets out to break up the budding romance and send the woman back where she came from. Complications ensue.Jan 25
Pretty average film overall. Nothing too bad about and absolutely nothing noteworthy. The plot itself, especially the ending, was pretty unrealistic and silly. 5/10 - DirectorAndy HamiltonGuy JenkinStarsRosamund PikeDavid TennantBilly ConnollyA family of five heads to Granddad's big 75th-birthday party at an uncle's estate in rural Scotland. The parents are separated and hope their three kids won't mention it. The kids love, can talk with, and would do anything for Granddad.Jan 25
Cute British comedy that had a tone similar to The Grand Seduction. All the parts were particularly good. Some laugh out loud moments and a somewhat emotional story. Rosamund Pike always puts in a good performance. 7/10 - DirectorJosh LawsonStarsBojana NovakovicJosh LawsonDamon HerrimanThe secret lives of five suburban couples living in Sydney reveal both the fetishes and the repercussions that come with sharing them.Jan 26
Multiple, not very connected, stories about the odd sexual habits of otherwise normal couples. Up til the last 30 mins or so of the film it was a little better than the average middle aged sex comedy. Those last 30 mins with the sign language interpreter were great! It took the film and elevated it well beyond what it could have been. Interesting detail is that the director/writer is the same guy who directed the short "After the Credits" that I really enjoyed from a couple years back. 8/10 - DirectorEugenio DerbezStarsEugenio DerbezKarla SouzaJessica LindseyA man who has made a new life for himself and the daughter left on his doorstep 6 years ago finds his family threatened when the birth mother resurfaces.Jan 26
Mexican film that is currently the 4th highest grossing foreign film of all time in the US. Aside from running a little long and the occasional terrible acting from actors in minor roles, it was a good film. It avoided the typical storyline of the illegal alien crossing the border to the US(though there was a hint of this) and struggling to get the family back together(and a hint of that). I laughed out loud several times and was engaged with the father and daughters relationship throughout the film. The end of the film was a brave ending for an otherwise safe film. An decent film for a first time feature writing and directing effort from a comedic actor. Not stylistically directed or anything, just better than I would have expected considering his past experience. 8/10 - DirectorArthur HillerStarsAli MacGrawRyan O'NealJohn MarleyA boy and a girl from different backgrounds fall in love regardless of their upbringing - and then tragedy strikes.Jan 27
I guess I could have picked something less depressing to watch early in the morning before going to work. Maybe if I'd read the spoiler in the imdb plot synopsis I would have been more prepared for that. When something doesn't happen until 2/3 into the film it really shouldn't be in the synopsis. As it should be with this title it was a good love story. It wasn't a whirlwind crazy over the top romance, but rather a mellow and believable love story. Both of the leads performances were perfect except for one aspect. Ryan O'neal's eyes conveyed his emotion well throughout the film but his lack of outward emotion at the best and worst of times pushes the audience away from the character rather than drawing us in. Unless it was because he couldn't act a good cry then it's more likely the directors bad decision and not O'Neals fault at all. 8/10 - DirectorWes AndersonStarsGeorge ClooneyMeryl StreepBill MurrayAn urbane fox cannot resist returning to his farm raiding ways and then must help his community survive the farmers' retaliation.Jan 27
Being such a fan of Wes Anderson's films I thought I needed to give this one another chance. I enjoyed it much more this time around. It keeps much of his typical style, just in stop motion animation. The dialogue was also decent so I'm not sure why I disliked it so much the first time. Not one of his best films, but still very enjoyable. 7/10 - DirectorPeter BogdanovichStarsAudrey HepburnBen GazzaraPatti HansenA madcap private-eye caper about a team of detectives who are following, and are being followed by, a group of beautiful women.Jan 28
Some scenes were extremely awkward in the delivery of the dialogue but it somehow grew on me. I was hoping for something more with the story though. I'll check out some more Bogdonovich films though he is clearly not consistent. 6/10 - DirectorStephen J. AndersonStarsDaniel HansenWesley SingermanAngela BassettLewis is a brilliant inventor who meets mysterious stranger named Wilbur Robinson, whisking Lewis away in a time machine and together they team up to track down Bowler Hat Guy in a showdown that ends with an unexpected twist of fate.Jan 28
For a movie involving time travel this wasn't so hot. It was fairly average overall and broke some of the 'rules' I like to see adhered to in an animated film made for kids. I felt that the story got too weird for its own good. Rather than watch this again, I'd just watch Jimmy Nuetron as it is a similar character but much better. 5/10 - DirectorChuck JonesBen WashamStarsBoris KarloffJune ForayDal McKennonA grumpy hermit hatches a plan to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville.Jan 28
I know we are quite a ways past cmas at this point but I've been meaning to put this on for Sandra and Sawyer for awhile now since neither had seen it before. Classic cmas film with good songs, simple yet effective animation and a good use of rhyming verse for dialogue. 8/10 - DirectorGeorge WaggnerStarsClaude RainsWarren WilliamLon Chaney Jr.Larry Talbot returns to his father's castle in Wales and meets a beautiful woman. One fateful night, Talbot escorts her to a local carnival where they meet a mysterious gypsy fortune teller.Jan 28
For a classic horror this was very well done. Like most classic horror films it could have used more scenes involving the creature and more killing scenes. Claude Rains was much more entertaining as Talbot than Chaney was as the wolf man. 7/10 - DirectorMichael HegnerKari JuusonenStarsOlli JantunenHannu-Pekka BjörkmanVuokko HovattaA young reindeer who suffers from vertigo learns to overcome his fear, takes flying lessons from a clumsy flying squirrel and heads to the North pole to save a troubled Santa and his fleet of flying reindeer.Jan 29
Another cmas movie I had sitting waiting to be watched. Pretty average overall. Not one I'll make a point of watching every year by any means. The animation was good enough to hold my interest though, and Sawyer seemed to really enjoy it. 6/10 - DirectorJack ArnoldStarsRuss TamblynJan SterlingJohn Drew BarrymoreA tough kid comes to a new high school and begins muscling his way into the drug scene. This is a typical morality play of the era, filled with a naive view of drugs, nihilistic beat poetry, and some incredible '50s slang.Jan 29
The 50s high school setting was enhanced nicely with the drug fueled storyline. The lingo was interesting to listen to but felt at times like it was made over the top to make a point. I expected a documentary feel, but was happy to see the depth of the story taking it to another level. I could have done without the aunt character as I didnt feel she adding much to the film for the most part. 7/10 - DirectorClyde GeronimiWilfred JacksonHamilton LuskeStarsKathryn BeaumontEd WynnRichard HaydnAlice stumbles into the world of Wonderland. Will she get home? Not if the Queen of Hearts has her way.Jan 30
Nice short runtime and gets right to the point. Mostly enjoyable characters and only a little too weird at a few moments in the film. 7/10 - DirectorSimon HelbergJocelyn TowneStarsSimon HelbergMelanie LynskeyZachary QuintoA man screws up on a transcontinental level in a noble effort to win back "the one."Jan 30
Predictable romantic comedy with a few laugh out loud moments. Decent casting and story, but nothing memorable with that. The best part was actually the music. All French songs or French versions of English songs. 6/10 - DirectorRichard Bates Jr.StarsMatthew Gray GublerKat DenningsRay WiseCity-boy Raymond returns to his hometown and finds a vengeful ghost is terrorizing his house. Therefore, this man-child recruits Becca, a badass local bartender, to solve the mystery of the spirit threatening people's lives.Jan 31
Another horror comedy that didnt work for either genre. The horror elements were weak and practically every single joke fell flat for me. More money spent on effects and a better scriptwriter would have fixed both. Some good castmembers but even they were mostly wasted. The start of the film had some style to it which unfortunately was quickly abandoned as the film went on. 5/10 - DirectorUbaldo RagonaSidney SalkowStarsVincent PriceFranca BettoiaEmma DanieliWhen a disease turns all of humanity into the living dead, the last man on earth becomes a reluctant vampire hunter.Jan 31
This is apparently a more faithful adaptation to the I Am Legend story. I loved Price's performance, but all the others in the flashback sequences left something to be desired. This deserves a spot on the list of classic horror films for its story, quality and the fact that it was a major influence on Night of the Living Dead. 8/10 - DirectorDavid BowersSam FellStarsHugh JackmanKate WinsletIan McKellenThe story of an uptown rat that gets flushed down the toilet from his penthouse apartment, ending in the sewers of London, where he has to learn a whole new and different way of life.Jan 31
Much better animated film than I expected. The animation still has that Aardman style even though it was computer animated and not claymation. I wish they had taken the time to do the proper claymation because it was a good enough story to deserve it. At a certain point the film dragged on a bit, though it quickly got back on pace and made up for it. 7/10 - DirectorChris RockStarsChris RockRosario DawsonGabrielle UnionA comedian tries to make it as a serious actor when his reality television star fiancée talks him into broadcasting their wedding on her television show.Jan 31
Chris Rock does a great job with this film. His writing and directing makes it all feel very natural. I feel an instant connection with the characters. Lots of laugh out loud moments for me. Held up well on 2nd viewing. Some minor changes from the version screened at tiff. I missed the top fives in the credits. 8/10 - DirectorJames WhaleStarsBoris KarloffElsa LanchesterColin CliveMary Shelley reveals the main characters of her novel survived: Baron Henry Frankenstein, goaded by an even madder scientist, builds his monster a mate.Jan 31
I'd never seen this before and it was much different that what I'd been led to believe from seeing posters and clips from the film. Most notable surprise is that it is really another Frankenstein film, having almost no time at all spent with the 'bride'. She does not really appear until the last 4 mins of the film!! The quality of filmmaking has improved over the already impressive first film. The moving camera shots near the beginning and the off kilter camera angles near the end were especially good. I could have done without the beginning bit with Mary Shelley, particularly when they didnt even bother to go back to that in the end of the film. 8/10 - DirectorJoseph L. MankiewiczStarsGene TierneyRex HarrisonGeorge SandersIn 1900, a young widow finds her seaside cottage is haunted and forms a unique relationship with the ghost.Jan 31
Bizarre love story, especially for the 40s. On the surface I suppose the story is a very common one for that time, except for the fact that one of the main characters is a ghost. Neither of the leads were overly likable, though enough to get by. Perhaps a shorter runtime would have held my interest more consistently. 6/10 - DirectorJoe LynchStarsSalma HayekHiroyuki WatanabeLaura CepedaA kidnapped woman faces down hitmen sent by a mob boss/her captor while trying to protect her family from his wrath.Jan 31
Great bloody action right from beginning to end. There was a little bit of a Raid vibe to it in that it all took place in an apartment building (mostly one apartment in this case). As with the raid, many of the other people living in the building are out to get her and her stumbling into another apartment leads to a whole crazy unexpected onslaught. It was brave enough to show some innocent people getting killed but not enough to show some nudity that would have fit in well in this film that could never have avoided an R rating anyhow. Some elements were pretty creative like the guy on the couch who gets paralyzed, the Japanese torture guy and the blood spurting elevator. Only real drawback was the level of acting which doesnt hurt a film like this too much. Should probably be a 7, but I can't help boosting it a point for the level of (creative) gore. 8/10