Seersha1 Reviews

Red, White & Royal Blue (2023)

A wonderful romcom

[9/10 · 26 August 2023]

This was a feel good romcom that leaned into the fantasy/fairy tale elements that all good rom coms do, and it was exactly what I needed! I can't think of another gay romcom I've enjoyed watching more. A few lines of dialogue are a bit iffy, but overall it's got solid writing and directing.

The movie shines with the passion the team behind it clearly brought to the table. The intimacy coordinator did an incredible job. The performances are all pretty good, and the leads have undeniable chemistry together, making the central romance one that the audience falls in love with as much as they are falling for each other throughout the movie.

Yes, it could fit in with a lot of the other Hallmark/Netflix genre romantic movies, but that's what makes this truly remarkable. The groundbreaking thing about this movie is that it felt like a movie I had never seen, and yet like a movie I had seen a million times. It is peak comfort viewing, it has a happy ending, and I for one am incredibly glad that this movie exists and is happy to just be what it is - unabashedly.

At only 2 hours, I am sure there are a lot of scenes that were cut that I would have loved to have seen included. I do think had this been a mini-series, it would have perhaps been even better. But then again, I think the movie succeeds very well for what it has chosen to utilize. The pace is fast, but it works.

This is a movie I'd highly recommend if you want to enjoy a feel-good romcom.

Teen Wolf: The Movie (2023)

Tyler Hoechlin is the only reason to watch this movie

[3/10 · 27 January 2023]

This movie feels rushed because it was. It feels like it was pieced together hastily from ill-fitting pieces because it was.

It's clear Jeff Davis was trying to write the movie even as he wasn't sure who from the cast of characters was returning, and who wasn't.

The best part of this movie is Tyler Hoechlin, and he's the only reason I watched it and the only reason I suggest anyone watch it. Somehow, despite juggling Superman and Lois filming at the same time (and having to switch between two different characters), he actually showed up. Regardless of what I think of Derek Hale's overall plot line in the movie, Tyler brought the best he could to the role, he brought heart and soul to an otherwise empty movie.

It baffles me that so many of the other cast feel like they phoned it in -- of course the writing utterly failed them, so it's not all their fault.

I understand why fans are upset, I understand why they feel let down. Because looking at Teen Wolf Season 3, you see the potential of these characters. You can see that with some actual care, the show could be great and if production had been allowed more time, maybe this movie could have been better since it's clear Season 3 was the inspiration. I have to think that, at least in part, this movie failed due to being rushed through to serve as a promotional tool for Wolf Pack, and nothing more. And sadly, it shows in nearly every frame.

Matilda: The Musical (II) (2022)

Wonderful musical, with incredible songs and choreography

[10/10 · 31 December 2022]

Not having seen the stage version, and having fond memories of watching the 1996 film as a child myself -- I wasn't sure what to expect. I sat down with my young children to watch this... and we all loved it. Actually, my kids have already had this on repeat.

Tim Minchin is a very underrated lyrical/music talent. I've been a fan of his for years and knew he'd written the songs for the theatre productions, but for whatever reason, I had just never had the chance or time to see Matilda on stage myself.

This movie is filled with incredibly clever, catchy songs and amazing choreography to compliment. I've had 'School Song' and 'Revolting Children' stuck in my head for days -- Tim Minchin is a genius. The film truly FEELS like a musical and the songs contribute to and enhance the narrative, as all good musicals should.

The casting is absolutely perfect. Alisha Weir is a revelation as Matilda. Emma Thompson is appropriately creepy and menacing as Ms Trunball. Lashana Lynch is pure heart and vulnerability as Ms Honey. I would have liked to see more of the Wormwoods, as Stephen Graham and Andrea Riseborough did a lot with a little. The supporting cast of children are pure talent - there is not one weak link in the entire movie.

The cinematography and direction was wonderful. I was struck by the thoughtful design, costumes, and colour palate chosen from the very first opening number 'Miracle', through to the end 'Still Holding My Hand'.

I'd highly recommend this musical and it's the most fun I've had watching a musical in YEARS. I hope this will go down as a classic in years to come.

Naomi (2022)

A decent start

[5/10 · 13 January 2022]

This was a decent start. The pilot episode was not fantastic, but not as terrible as other reviews would make you think. There are definitely some clunky bits and the occasional weird dialogue reading. I liked the second half of the pilot more, it picked up and starts to really get intriguing. Naomi as a character I think is quite likeable, and I want to know more about her. I will watch a few more episodes to see how things unravel.

The Horse Whisperer (1998)

Disappointed

[3/10 · 8 June 2010]

Unfortunately this movie disappointed me. I have read the book (which is wonderful), and this movie just doesn't come close. I do believe that the movie was miscast, most notably Robert Redford in the role of Tom. It is such a shame, really. The book leant a lovely storyline, but for whatever reason the book didn't translate well to film. I think the movie could have been better made, but what we are left with is a movie where not many of the characters are likable, and the heart of the book seems to have been lost. Perhaps if I hadn't read the book, maybe I would have enjoyed this more. As it stands, I guess all I can say is that if you have read the book be forewarned to be disappointed, and if you haven't, I truly hope you enjoy the film more than I did. Sadly, this isn't a film I am likely to recommend to friends.

13 Going on 30 (2004)

Enjoyable film

[6/10 · 8 June 2010]

I was pleasantly surprised by this film. No it's not original or believable, but if you can just go with the premise (a young girl wakes up 30 years old after having some sort of fairy dust sprinkled on her), then it's a very enjoyable film. Jennifer Garner proves why she was the "it" girl at the time with a heartfelt and fun performance of a young girl way out of her depth in the adult world. Mark Ruffalo isn't drop-dead-gorgeous by typical standards, but somehow has enough charisma and charm to make him a worthy romantic interest. My favourite scenes are the 'Thriller' dance, the swing-set scene and ending scene (which I won't spoil). I also want to make a note that I give Kudos to whomever was in charge of the costumes in this film – I don't usually make note of these details, but I have to say they did a wonderful job. The costumes were varied, colourful and worked well for the cast, especially Garner. Recommended for people who love romantic comedies or fans of Jen Garner.

Julie & Julia (2009)

Okay

[4/10 · 8 June 2010]

I was disappointed with this movie. I guess for a movie starring Meryl Streep I was expecting something... more. I actually found it to often times be quite boring and slow, which I suppose makes sense when you think about it since there really isn't much of a plot. The movie is based on real-life events – a young woman names Julie decides to take a years of her life and cook her way through Julie Child's cookbook and blog about it on the internet. Along the way she learns more about herself through the experience. The movie also takes a look at the story of Julia Child's own journey through her cooking classes to final book publishing. Let me just say that the performances are all fine – to her credit Meryl Streep does indeed look like she's having a lot of fun with the character. And Amy Adams proves to be a versatile actress. I would never have recognized her as the girl who was in Enchanted, and that speaks highly of her talent. Overall my assessment is that it's not a movie I would personally recommend, but the film isn't bad exactly and does also have redeeming qualities.

Wicker Park (2004)

Intriguing movie

[6/10 · 8 June 2010]

An odd little movie, this film stars Josh Hartnett, Diane Kruger and Rose Byrne. It follows Hartnett's character as he becomes obsessively in love with Kruger's character. Unfortunately for him, Byrne's character becomes involved in the mix when she tries to take on the identity of her friend (Kruger) and get Hartnett's character to fall in love with her. It's a little hard to follow, this is not a movie you can breeze through, and it does require concentration to fully appreciate it. But I would say it's definitely a decent movie. Hartnett is a little wooden at times, and this was Kruger's first major American film. But to me the standout is definitely Rose Byrne. Worth checking out if you're a fan of any of the stars, or quirky more offbeat films.

The Ugly Truth (2009)

Enjoyable film

[7/10 · 8 June 2010]

I liked this film so much I went out and brought a copy to keep so I can re-watch it whenever I like. Somehow this romantic comedy passes the average mark, to the point where I can say I love this film. Romantic comedies are hardly ever original nowadays, and the idea of two mismatched people falling in love against the odds or expectations is certainly not new. But Gerard Butler and Katherine Heigl make it work, with the help of a quirky and fun script. In my opinion Butler is the one who really saves this film, because even though his character is a jerk most of the film, in quieter moments he shows us a softer side – with just a look – that makes the audience aware there is more going on below the surface of his character. The end scene between the characters in the hot air balloon is all Butler, as he sells the love story ending everyone wants. I really was surprised by how much I enjoyed this film, and highly recommend.

Philadelphia (1993)

Recommended

[7/10 · 8 June 2010]

Looking back, this film seems a bit ahead of it's time. At the time when this film came out, it was probably considered quite a brave role for Tom Hanks to take on, or Denzel Washington for that matter. They both shine with amazing performances in this important and wonderful film. It follows a gay man who is dying from AIDS in a court case against his former employees for wrongful dismissal, illustrating the injustice and inequality that people who are gay or people with AIDs have to face. Tom Hanks is truly fantastic, it's no wonder he won an Oscar for this performance. I highly recommend this film to others, and it an important one as a stepping stone to other films and even today there is still a stigma around being gay in Hollywood.

While You Were Sleeping (1995)

Fun and enjoyable and lovely

[6/10 · 8 June 2010]

I have often wondered why Bill Pullman didn't become a bigger star than he is. He's played the romantic interest in a few films, starring opposite two of the romcom queens – Meg Ryan and Sandra Bullock. He was even great in Independence Day. And he is great in this film too, with enough charm and likability for viewers to understand why it is Lucy falls in love with his character. Sandra Bullock does well in her role, too. It's not an outstanding performance, but as an actress and person she is so likable that really all that matters is that she's cute and easy to watch on screen. Recommended for anyone who enjoys romantic comedies.

Cruel Intentions (1999)

Good movie

[7/10 · 8 June 2010]

One of the better films from the late 1990's aimed at teens. Starring Ryan Phillipe, Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Selma Blair and Joshua Jackson, this film boasts a great cast of young stars. The film follows the twisted manipulations of Kathryn and Sebastian, through their dealings with sex, drugs and relationships. It really is a great film, with solid performances. Sarah Michelle Gellar and Selma Blair shine, with a nice quirky cameo role from Josh Jackson too. I wish he was in the film more. Miles ahead many of the other "teen films" of the time, I would highly recommend you check out Cruel Intentions.

Big (1988)

Charming film

[7/10 · 8 June 2010]

It's hard to imagine that a movie like this once had the ability to land an actor an Oscar nomination. These days I think it would be almost impossible for that to happen. That doesn't take away from the fact that, yes, Tom Hanks makes the role all he can. I have come the conclusion though that Tom Hanks is just that kind of actor that can pull anything off and do it, if not outstandingly, at the very least really, really well. He shows enthusiasm and nervousness in equal measures and makes it believable that he's only a thirteen year old boy trapped in an older body, trying his best to be an adult when the reality is he is far from it. I also want to say the other actors are all fantastic, and it's a fun movie that can be enjoyed by the entire family.

Titanic (1997)

One day this will be a classic

[7/10 · 8 June 2010]

An historical film, to be sure (it made history at the box office). A classic? Probably one day, I don't think enough time has passed to truly call this a classic just yet, but of course it definitely has all the makings of one. Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio shot to fame with this film, and I have to say even though they are OK, I don't think either of them struck me with their talent. They are both marvelous actors, but it wasn't until years later that I really believed that. Still, they have wonderful chemistry and make the love story believable and heartfelt. As for the film itself, it is a grand scale film, really something to enjoy on a big screen if possible. Although over the years it seems people have come to view this film with much indifference, it is a film worth seeing if you haven't already, and if you have, it is one to revisit every few years.

Capitalism: A Love Story (2009)

Thought provoking documentary

[7/10 · 8 June 2010]

Well, Michael Moore does it again – another great film of his to add to the list! An examination of capitalism, the financial crisis, and with a smothering of 'greed is bad' to top it off. I have to admit the religious overtones in the film were somewhat distracting for me (given I am not personally religious), and I can't say I am completely sold on the 'Capitalism is Evil' message the film strongly conveys. I don't think capitalism is evil, it's just gotten out of hand whereby now profit is the most important thing, damned be the consequences of lives of innocent people. That said, perhaps with some reining in and regulations in place (not to mention the rebirth of ethics), I am sure capitalism could be OK. But I digress… back to the film… it is an interesting documentary, engaging, informative. I give Mr. Moore a lot of credit for putting forth another perspective to the masses, at the very least we need to start questioning our governments, lawmakers, corporate bosses and the like. We need to bring back people power, and realize that we truly do have the power in democracy. Thank you Mr. Moore for your film, I thoroughly enjoyed it and will recommend it to others.

She's All That (1999)

Not good

[3/10 · 8 June 2010]

I must have seen this movie more than ten years ago now, and wow, I seem to recall that it had a better plot the first time. Oh right, I was a mere early-teen then with not enough movie watching experience to truly appreciate just what an awful movie this really is. Freddie Prinze Jnr. is a terrible actor, which is clearly demonstrated in this film. He has almost no expression changes, no range and he isn't even as cute as I remember thinking he was all those long years ago. I watched this for the nostalgia, to see just how bad FPJ was and to see if this was even remotely as good as I remember it being. How did I ever even think this was a good movie? I honestly have no idea. I suppose if you aim this movie at the early-teen audience, they might like it, but otherwise I'd give this one a giant miss.

This Is It (2009)

RIP Michael Jackson

[8/10 · 8 June 2010]

Watching this was bittersweet. I am very glad I took the time to see this movie/documentary, even though I was hesitant at first as I wasn't sure what to expect. I think we get some wonderful glimpses of Michael Jackson the entertainer, the performer and the man. We get to see how truly wonderful his comeback concert series was shaping up to be, and in some ways, only makes me miss him even more. Yes I miss Michael Jackson – for the man he tried hard to be, even if ultimately he fell short of that ideal. He brought tremendous talent to the world, he paved the way for other performers and singers and will forever be an inspiration to artists and his fans. I highly recommend you see this movie.

Jerry Maguire (1996)

Romantic comedy

[7/10 · 8 June 2010]

I've seen this film a few times now over the years and always enjoy it. I'm not a particular fan of Tom Cruise, but I do enjoy him in this film. Cuba Gooding Jnr steals the show with his performance, and Renee Zellweger was fantastic in this role. Jerry Maguire tells the story of a sports agent who is fired from his big corporate job and instead has to forge his own way relying on a single client. It's a movie about believing in others, believing in yourself and about questioning your own morals and beliefs. It's about finding what really makes you happy, and about finding happiness in unexpected places. A great movie recommended if you like romantic dramas or comedies, or are one of the few remaining Tom Cruise fans.

Easy (2003)

A tangled web...

[6/10 · 8 June 2010]

The tagline on this movie is: "Sex is easy… love is not." However I don't think it quite fits with the film. The film revolves around Katie, a young woman who has never had trouble landing casual flings, but real relationships elude her. She seems to think the problem is the type of men she attracts, although later comes to realise that a part of the problem is surely the way she so easily falls into bed with men, rather than getting to know the men and making them respect her rather than use her. Enter two main love interests, a handsome man who used to be her teacher who she has always crushed on, and a move average looking guy who is actually a nice guy. Marguerite Moreau is the star in this film and plays her part very well. I was impressed with her performance. The other actors are all good too. If I had one gripe it is that this film tangles all the characters into this weird web of love/romance./sex far too conveniently for it to be realistic. Katie's sister spends half the film 'happily married' but ends up in love with one of Katie's initial love interests. What kind of sister doesn't at least feel a bit awkward about dating your sister's ex? So aside from the contrived nature of the plot that insists on mixing the characters up so much it becomes too much, I enjoyed the film. I would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of the actors in the film.

The Butterfly Effect (2004)

Okay

[5/10 · 8 June 2010]

Starring Ashton Kutcher, Amy Smart and Elden Henson, this movie explores the idea that one small decision or action can change the course of not only your own life, but the lives of others. Evan (Kutcher), is breaking down mentally – just as his father did – and comes to realize he has the power to go 'back in time' and change events, and thus the lives of his family and friends. Each change leads to a different scenario, a different life experience, but none of them satisfy Evan since they are never perfect. He seems determined to ensure that everyone ends up happy, well-adjusted and sane, but with each shift it seems there is always one person in his life who ends up suffering. It is certainly an interesting premise, and the acting is quite good. Recommended.

Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Recommended

[8/10 · 8 June 2010]

This film completely surprised me with how good it is. I had resisted seeing it in the theatre and was persuaded after hearing that it was good. Verdict: It's a fantastic film! It started a little slow, and when I saw that it was broken into 'chapters' my heart sank as I wondered how long the film was. After the first fantastic sequence, the pace seems to slow, but it does pick up again and at the end of the film I was left with the feeling that it would be one to recommend. All the actors are great in their roles, Brad Pitt was a riot! If you like Quentin Tarantino films, this is definitely one for you. Worth a look at and highly recommended.

The Hangover (2009)

Fun and funny movie!

[8/10 · 8 June 2010]

Fun. That is the first word that comes to mind when I think of this movie. It was a blast to watch, funny and strange all at once! The premise is that a group of friends head to Vegas for a bachelor party. They wake up the next day with hangovers, none of them recalling events of the night prior and noticing that the groom-to-be is mysteriously missing. What follows is their adventures in Vegas to make sense of the strange surroundings they have awoken to (a tiger in the bathroom and a baby in the closet is the tip of the iceberg…), their quest to find their missing friend while also trying to remember how it is they got into this mess in the first place. Bradley Cooper is an up and coming 'It' boy, you can tell, and yes he is charming and great in the film. But so are all of the actors. The writing is solid, the film will make you laugh. A great comedy for adults to enjoy.

Sherlock Holmes (2009)

Boring and slow.

[4/10 · 15 January 2010]

I didn't know what to expect going into this movie. My friend had free tickets, which is really the only reason I went. I don't know anything about Sherlock Holmes (aside from vague details), haven't read the books or researched the history of his character. So I go in with a blank slate, willing to enjoy the ride if the movie is good. Unfortunately it is not. In fact, it's bad. It's so bad and so boring that I literally fell asleep during the film. I think I missed a good 30 min chunk somewhere in the middle. Before you say, "Well then you can't possibly judge the film since you didn't see it all," let me say this: I didn't miss much. Because when I woke up, I was still able to follow the story just fine. I was at that stage, however, praying for the end to come quickly. The plot is bad, the acting is not much better. I hated the filming style, all that ridiculous slow-motion, fast-motion, fast cuts, narrating the fight scenes – all CRAP. And terribly distracting. I think RDJ is a good actor, Jude Law is fine and Rachel McAdams is good, too. So why did they do this movie? I place a lot of blame on Guy Richie who just seems self-indulgent and determined to be 'stylish' instead of actually making a movie for audiences. My advice: Don't bother seeing this movie, even if you are a fan of Sherlock Holmes. I don't know his backstory, but I'm told they pretty much ruined his character in this movie and turned him into some weird-ninja-dude.

Dawson's Creek (1998–2003)

Good series, recommended watching.

[7/10 · 14 January 2010]

I haven't seen the first season for about 10 years. It was refreshing to see it again and fall in love again. The show isn't a masterpiece and there are bright spots and dull ones – like any show there are great episodse and sucky ones too. But this show is enjoyable entertainment, and for me it's like a guilty pleasure except I know too many people who love it to feel guilty.

The D/J romance is actually handled well in Season 1. I would have liked more Pacey, but it is also good to see the adults play a larger role earlier on. I find the Mitch/Gale relationship to be very real. Season 2 is an excellent season overall. I enjoyed watching Pacey's growth and change. He really shone (and Joshua Jackson is amazing). It was great to see the new characters, Jack and Andie. The only downside I would say is that the Dawson/Joey romance gets repedative. It was okay in the early episodes of the seasons, but boring when they had another go at it near the end.

Season 3 is my favourite season of Dawson's Creek, and the best. Why? Quite simply, because of Pacey and Joey. It is absolutely wonderful, enjoyable and satisfying to see their journey from reluctant friends, to closer friends to lovers. Much credit needs to go to Joshua Jackson for his portrayal of Pacey, as we go with him on his roller-coaster ride of emotions. He made the audience not only sympathize with Pacey's turmoil and pain of falling in love with his best friend's girl, but in being able to see Joey through his eyes… what it was about her that made him fall so madly in love. Katie Holmes steps up too, and has great chemistry with JJ. Unfortunately James Van Der Beek doesn't fare as well… Dawson often comes across as a petulant child.

Season 4 follows the kid's last year in high school. Gale and Mitch are now reunited, and Joey and Pacey continue their romance. There are bumps along the way, but P/J always light up the screen and Joshua Jackson once again brings his talent for all to see. Katie Holmes shines when she's with him, they have great chemistry.

Season 5 and 6 take a noticeable dive in quality with some not-so-believable plot lines, such as Pacey becoming a stockbroker. I think the writers really struggled with the move from high school to college and it shows, unfortunately.

The best episodes of the last two seasons are the final 2 from season 6 and the last episodes of the series. We jump 5 years ahead to see the DC kids more mature, and get a resolution to the D/J vs. P/J love triangle that has been so prominent since season 3. Once again though, the best parts are definitely the Pacey and Joey scenes. Michelle Williams acts her ass off and brings the heartbreak, but in the end it's a satisfying conclusion to one of my beloved shows.

Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009)

Enjoyable chick flick

[7/10 · 10 January 2010]

Very enjoyable chick flick.

I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this movie. It was just easy to watch, the kind of movie you curl up on the couch to watch with the bowl of popcorn.

No, it's not original at all and is a fairly average romcom. But it was entertaining and fun, I laughed out loud several times and just generally enjoyed the movie. Sometimes that is all that you need, pure enjoyment.

Of course it does not hurt that the leading man is a good looking guy too! Isla Fisher does well in this role, she should be doing more movies and is one beautiful woman.

I'd recommend this movie if you're a fan of romantic comedies.