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Reviews
The Flash (2023)
Finally a fun DC movie that (mostly) delivers
For anyone wanting more from the mess that has been the DC Cinematic Universe, this is worth checking out.
Miller delivers a commanding and surprisingly versatile performance in this epic homage to all things DC. Keaton steals the show, however, as he beautifully takes up the mantle of The Bat once more.
It's cameos galore and Easter-egg fodder throughout, but a tight script keeps the entertainment coming. It's directed with love and is refreshingly funny for most of its running time.
The final act does become a bit convoluted, but it's wrapped together nicely with a fitting end. If this is the last entry into the canon before the reboot, this was a decent end to what has been a mixed bag of movies from DC (The Batman and Joker excluded).
Go for a fun watch and you won't be disappointed.
Inside Man (2022)
Too implausible to work
I was very surprised by this, because on paper it should be great: a great cast, a great writer and a great director should equate to something very memorable, but unfortunately the plot is so unbelievable it's just a frustrating watch.
Both narratives are completely implausible and despite some incredible acting talent, the whole piece just doesn't work as it's unashamedly daft.
Tennant's vicar just needs to tell the truth and Tucci's convicted murderer would never be allowed to still practise law in a million years.
A real shame, as this was a large waste of time for all involved - including the people attempting to watch it.
Hellraiser (2022)
A solid remake which retains the grim feel of the original
This is a fairly slick reimagining of a franchise that looked dead and buried.
Retaining the grim macabre feel of the original film, this modern-day version of Hellraiser has all the traits a horror fan would want from a new version whilst delivering it in a slick and gripping way.
At first I had my doubts, but the cast was overall pretty solid and the script was a pleasant surprise and I was compelled by the fresh approach to bringing in the puzzle box and cenobites.
It's a shame it was a TV movie, as although the director and crew have done a great job with what they had, a few extra dollars might have really made a difference - making it grander and offering more scope to add scale to this piece.
With Barker producing and David S Goyer on scriptwriting duties, you can tell that this is no throw away attempt at breathing life into this franchise. It's well written, gothic, grim and gross - a very good effort, all in all.
Prey (2022)
The best Predator movie in a long time.
This is an excellent example of how to breathe new life into a dead franchise - gone is the cheese and male dominated obsession with 'more is more', and finally a well written film that takes its time, develops its characters and hits you hard when it really needs to.
The awful comedy moments of The Predator are gone and the poorly written characters of AVP are a thing of the past. This refreshing take that delivers a real sense of threat is a welcome change and has proven that predator movies should still be made.
Almost like Jaws in a way, this is a film that takes an American-Indian girl in the colonial times and shows what women are really capable of. Plenty of research has gone into this and despite the contrast of a futuristic alien hunting people with basic weapons, the film just works.
If you are a predator fan who has grown tired of recent efforts - give this a go, it will give you faith again.
Spiderhead (2022)
Moments of intrigue
Set in an alternative prison in the near future, inmates have put themselves forward for rehabilitation via the development of mood altering intravenous drugs.
Hemsworth plays the charming lead scientist and head of the centre, whose polished yet glib superficial facade begins to slip when we start to realise that not all the drugs he is developing have positive effects.
Miles Teller plays Jeff - a good man who made a big mistake and is trying to come to terms with the consequences. Jurnee Smollet's Rachel is the accompanying kind companion who provides council for Jeff, and it's their burgeoning romance that drives the story forwards.
There are plenty of moments in this film to like, as it does offer something quite original to the world of sci-fi thrillers at times, however it lacks pace in places and slightly outstays it's welcome towards the end. At points Hemsworth seems slightly miscast, although he does shine in certain scenes as a subtle villain that has a certain insecurities that makes his character more interesting than you might expect.
It's a pleasant watch if you like this genre of movie and while it won't warrant a sequel, it's refreshing enough to keep you entertained for the most part.
Candyman (2021)
A very relevant horror story for the modern age.
Sometimes films surpass genre and become far more than one could ever hope. Nia DaCosta has done this in an abundance with this modern-day retelling of retribution and urban horror.
Part social commentary and part stylised hammer-horror for the current day, the film focuses on the Chicago art scene and takes the audience back to Anthony Macoy, the poor baby abducted in the original movie. Macoy, now an up and coming painter is looking for a new source of inspiration when his girlfriend's brother tells the story of Candyman: sparking a morbid curiosity in the artist that leads him to fall down this sinister rabbit hole.
The way that DaCosta depicts the current art scene in Illinois and plays with the viewer is captivating, and the use of mirrors is so powerful and eerie, yet the cinematography is effortlessly elegant with succinct, punchy, editing.
The film's beats really do work - it takes the viewer on a ride that hits home and rightly reiterates the racial inequalities our world still sadly embraces. It's scary, gripping and necessary cinema that reminds us of the true horrors that white privilege has created over the centuries.
Antlers (2021)
A grim slow-burn with heart.
Subtle, creepy and unsettling, this is a strangely tender horror movie that hits home if you have a heart.
It's a monster movie at its core, but director Scott Cooper makes it much more than that. Child abuse is a central theme to the film, as is the concept of man's failure to respect Mother Nature and these themes play an integral part to the tone of the movie and as a consequence, it is a grim and gritty affair - there are no pockets of humour or relief - it is a moody, atmospheric love letter to the modern-day macabre and is like an echo of Lovecraft's darkest manifestations.
Keri Russell is brilliant as the lead character, playing a former victim of abuse herself, she delivers the part with a believable amount of grit and sadness, while Jesse Plemons is the sweet, slightly oblivious big brother who has reluctantly taken the job of being the local Sheriff. The cast is strong and child actors Jeremy T Thomas and Sawyer Jones do an exceptionally believable job as the damned siblings set to endure the curse that they have encountered.
If you like slow-burn horror that has been delivered with a lot of love - check out this dark little treasure. Just don't expect a sequel any time soon.
Choose or Die (2022)
An entertaining enough horror-thriller.
Part horror and part mystery-thriller, this is a medium-budget chiller with an original plot that draws you in and makes you want to keep watching.
In general, the script hangs together ok and the directing and editing pulls you into this throwback to 80s pop-culture - keeping you guessing throughout. Some of the 'levels' are quite unpleasant to watch and the slightly fantastical nature to the premise is quite fun, provided you allow yourself to go with it.
This is a refreshing take on a stale genre and while most of the thrills come courtesy of the inventive twist on the horror-rpg games from the 1980s - it isn't so inventive that it will blow you away.
It's not going to win any awards either , but it's a (mostly) pleasing throwback to horror movies from 30 years ago with a slightly bonkers slant.
Worth a go if you liked 'Escape Room', 'The Hunt' and 'Cube'.
The Matrix Resurrections (2021)
An evolution of a saga that is not for everyone.
This movie is not just another Matrix film. Lana Wachowski has made a movie that boldly revisits the first three films but takes a very different and refreshing take going forwards. More abstract, more nuanced and far more meta than any of us would have expected, Resurrections is a totally different beast to its predecessors.
There are moments where the film treads some unexpected territory; perhaps using the word 'rom-com' here is dangerous and provocative, but there are a few short scenes which play with this idea, as well as straight-out comedy. That will certainly jar with some. However, the whole movie has the subtle touches of David Mitchell throughout and, in my opinion, is expertly handled with touching effect.
This movie has a greater depth to it than a Matrix movie deserves to possess, and really touches on the central love story with great resonance.
That is not to say that there is no action - far from it - you still get your hyper-real hit of mind-bending fight sequences and for the most part - the film looks gorgeous.
The casting raised a few eyebrows, but most were solid choices, although I had to look up how the new approach to Morpheus made sense - it's a bit of a stretch what they have done there.
So, is it pretentious nonsense? Well, yes, but no more than any of the other Matrix movies. In fact, this is the one which has the most heart and depth to it - so go see it with your eyes open and if in doubt, just swallow that little red pill.
Dune (2021)
Stunning cinema.
Dune (2021) is a masterclass in epic cinematography, music scores and storytelling.
A slow-burn sci-fi saga for adults, this film establishes an evocative universe that you can lose yourself in for hours.
My only qualm is that because it's 'Part 1', there was no elegant place to stop telling the story. When 'Part 2' is released in 2024, this film will only get better I'm sure - as you won't have to wait to see what happens next.
I foolishly watched this on TV when it became available via streaming services, if you can - watch this on the big screen - it's stunning cinema.
The Batman (2022)
An excellent film-noir detective thriller with a twist.
Second only to The Dark Knight, this is an outstanding contribution to cinema and Batman on screen.
Set in a gritty, realistic Gotham with beautiful cinematography and an outstandingly written screenplay, Matt Reeves' The Batman is our first taste of the caped crusader's detective skills. It's not without action either - some of which topping Nolan's efforts. Paul Dano's Riddler is something straight out of David Fincher's worse nightmare as the film takes influences from Seven and even Saw at times.
It's superbly cast, with Colin Farrell as a particular highlight and Robert Pattinson is impressive as the most insular and strangest Bruce Wayne/Batman yet.
At approximately three hours in length, it's a tad too long and delightful as it is, the last 15 minutes could have mostly been cut - that said, any Batman fan would be happy to sit through the whole film as it promises to lead to quite the sequel.
A must-watch for any Batman fan and movie- goers who like psychological thrillers.
Last Train to Christmas (2021)
A wonderfully heart-warming nostalgia trip.
Initially set in 1985, this film is a love letter to the time-travel film genre that is identifiable, gripping and a joy to watch. The cast are solid and the writing is so captivating, it's a thought-provoking nostalgia trip in (pretty much) every scene.
As Tony (Sheen) progresses through the train, he jumps back and forth between decades, trying to get things right in his life. The film captures the 80s, 90s, 00s, and much more so perfectly you can't look away and need to know what happens to Sheen's lovable rogue. The cinematography and style of the movie is wonderful, but it's the human element that makes this standout. It resonates with you.
This is one of those films that make you reflect on your own life decisions and stays with you after. Highly recommended.
L'uomo del labirinto (2019)
A visionary thriller
This is a film that has beautiful cinematography, an engrossing plot and a fabulous cast. Stylish, well-written scenes are plentiful throughout this movie and you really cannot predict what will happen.
It's a little long, but for good reason, as it's not a straightforward neo-noir affair; it's a brooding psychological detective thriller with dreamlike surrealism scattered here and there.
The changing of languages is a little odd at first but it all works perfectly once you have seen the whole movie - watch it, stay with it and savour it - you won't be disappointed.
Shadow in the Cloud (2020)
Entertaining, original and fun
Chloe Grace Moretz does a Stella job in this unique feminist WW2 monster flick. It's really her performance that holds the whole film together.
There are surprises a-plenty as the story unfolds and the whole thing is held together with some stand-out scenes that keep you captivated throughout.
It's clear the budget was fairly low and some of the supporting characters are weakly handled, however there is enough of a good screenplay to keep you watching.
If you like original sci-fi and don't mind the odd moment of hammy acting, this is really worth a go.
Ojing-eo geim (2021)
Stunning television
If you like Battle Royale, The Prisoner, Hunger Games and a good drama - this is for you.
Set in South Korea in the present day, this series is a stark look at what people will do when society has failed them - richly character driven and with a wonderfully original take on the sinister, this is a Netflix series that has depth, drama, entertainment and shock-value.
It's a not afraid to be a slow burner at times, but the mystery and slight surrealist nature of 'The Game' drives your attention throughout.
It's worth watching and taking time over. Really recommended.
Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)
A missed opportunity
I really wanted to like this movie, but I'm afraid it's a mess. The dialogue is mostly strained, the villains are two-dimensional and the film even managed to demonstrate Gal Gadot's limitations as an actress at times.
A real shame as it has moments of sparkle; starting well with nostalgic nods to 80s America, and it even ultimately ends on a touching note, but the majority of the film is a little aimless and feels unfinished with regards to script and dialogue - it suffers from a similar fate as Suicide Squad and Birds of Prey.
Hopefully DC will learn from this and move towards a better planned and more cohesive set of films - learn from the success of Joker and the Syder Cuts and put this behind them.
Gal Gadot deserves the role, but she also needs good scripts to work from, too.
The White Lotus (2021)
An excellent TV drama - beautiful, quirky and a bit odd.
This is one of the best TV shows I've seen in ages: charming, very well written (with light and shade) and really well thought through characters.
The cast are exceptional and the cinematography is gorgeous - I was most impressed by how the whole show balanced dark humour and moments of loveliness - especially when most high-budget TV shows focus on the darker side of things.
It definitely has an occasional awkwardness to it and keeps you pulled in by the knowledge that there will be a death, but overall it's a witty, funny affair for the modern age. Highly recommended.
Synchronic (2019)
A good sci-if drama with heart
A really lovely surprise find - this movie is made with a lot of love and you can tell. The story is engaging and well-acted and the entire premise seems quite fresh. Well worth watching.
If you enjoy surreal sci-fi, then definitely give this one a go.
Blood Red Sky (2021)
A fresh take on vampire movies.
This is a well-written and well-made vampire flick with a lot of heart. It keeps you guessing and has several satisfying scenes. A strong cast and screenplay make this a must-watch for any fans of the genre.
Fear Street: 1994 (2021)
Fun, but there is better out there ...
A homage to Scream and Buffy, this is a pleasant nostalgic throwback to the 90s for anyone who grew up during that decade.
It is not anything new - but it's entertaining enough if you like slasher movies.
It's great if you are double-screening, but one to avoid if you are expecting anything particularly memorable.
The Ice Road (2021)
Bit of a mess
This movie starts off ok - a reasonable scenario for a cheesy action flick, but as it goes on it, unfortunately it becomes a bit of a rambling tale of bizarre action sequences, held together with some questionable dialogue at best.
Lawrence Fishburn's performance is the only redeeming aspect of the movie, but sadly he is not in it for very long. His performance seems to make the whole thing work, but once he's out of the picture, the film starts to fall apart; a shame as it feels like this was a missed opportunity to make something fun and entertaining.
Dark Web: Cicada 3301 (2021)
An entertaining comedy-thriller
I was expecting a horror, although I admittedly based that on the name of the movie and the poster.
I was a little surprised to find this fun, intriguing (if a little goofy at times), thriller that kept me engaged throughout.
Like a funner version of the Da Vinci Code in a way, this movie was a great little find - it won't set the world on fire, but as long as you know what you are going in for, it's a lot of fun.
Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021)
Wonderful
If you like DC and you want to be entertained, this movie hits the brief.
Wonderful to see Snyder finally release his vision, and it's vastly superior to what Whedon did.
The film has heart and soul and is a true development of the two Snyder films that came before.
If you liked Snyder's Watchmen and the director's cut of Batman v Superman - this is a must watch.
Little Monsters (2019)
A breath of fresh air
A fun and entertaining film. The first twenty minutes might not be for everyone, but it's definitely worth sticking with - an adult feel-good film with many laugh out loud moments. If you want a dark comedy with adult humour - this is a wonderful little gem
Ford v Ferrari (2019)
A fitting tribute
James Mangold directs a wonderful piece of nostalgic cinema, that tells the story of the Miles/ Shelby relationship that saw them put Ford on the map for elite endurance racing.
Beautifully set, the film is a love letter to the sixties and portrays the cars as accurately as possible. This was an era where car design was at it's peak, and the film does well to convey the power of the stars of the show.
The script is well written: often humorous and sets up the movie for some stand-out moments.
Bale and Damon are perfectly cast and the former excels as the charismatic and eccentric race car driver- his accent a little surprising at first, but well delivered throughout.
The politics at Ford and Ferrari create a perfect backdrop for a sun-drenched slice of race car history and depicts the events that took place with an entertaining angle.
It's a solid movie that will grip you more as it goes on. Mangold has done a great job here, as have the cast and writers.