daisukereds Reviews

Samurai I: Musashi Miyamoto (1954)

"A Samurai's wife sends off her man with a smile"

[6/10 · 28 April 2024]

If you want to watch this film, you HAVE to watch the 2 following movies.

Together, they make more of a TV show season! And alone, this introductory story isn't particularly satisfying.. nor does it feel as if it provides a complete narrative either, as it tries to tell the entire life of Musashi Miyamoto. And so, I review the entire story and not just this first entry here (otherwise, I would have to lower its score by quite a margin).

I feel it has pacing issues, a lack of focus in some themes and moments, and constantly shifts to other things without a proper setup or conclusion. It's also has elements of period "romance", which is sometimes hard to enjoy (specially for those not accustomed to Japanese culture). It also lacks excitement or truly memorable moments (be it battles or interactions).. but it does have a good cast and the famed and always impressive Toshiro Mifune, and it is very well produced. I wasn't particularly blown away, but I also ended up watching them one after the other. So, while I would have wanted to get more out of it, it is enough to satisfy a fan of these films.. albeit barely.

The Great Race (1965)

"Ladies, kindly remove your hats"

[8/10 · 28 April 2024]

The daring people's hero versus his rival, the overly-competitive evil genius, race from New York to Paris!

I had some expectations.. and they were completely blown off!

From the cartoonish and delightful developments, the memorable lines and moments throughout.. to the memorable portrayal of everyone involved!! Specially the beyond-charming Natalie Wood. At around 2 hours and 30 minutes, there's plenty going on and doesn't feel slow (even for its time), in a way movies are not created any more. Impressive choreographies, production, fun and plenty of musical.

What an enjoyable evening! A must see for anyone interested in good cinema.

City Hunter (2024)

"Big talk for a little Maggot!"

[7/10 · 27 April 2024]

Hired help, City Hunter, stumbles into a generic sci-fi plot of super-soldier drugs and a secret organization.

I've read and watched City Hunter over the years. And I believe this is the third Live-Action adaptation of Tsukasa Hojo's Manga (with Jackie Chan in 1993 and a rather strange-but-enjoyable French version), only to finally be adapted by Japan around 30-years later!! Personally, any adaptation that properly incorporates the "giant mallet" without feeling forced, gets a pass in my books.

But beyond the average script, there are many likeable elements and an excellent execution. With a good cast that delivers charming performances and keeps a suitable tone throughout. I was expecting more silliness and over the top situations, but it knows how to behave itself. Specially the lead, who is portrayed as a VERY reliable person.. and unrealistically impressive, even! I quite liked Ryohei Suzuki, specially since he is what I'd physically imagine Saeba to be!

So, while the story is barely okay.. the Action more than makes up for it. And while I would have liked to see this as a series with a better plot but all the same parts, what it is is good enough to recommend.

Hissatsu!: Sure Death! (1984)

"Can't practice without an audience"

[4/10 · 26 April 2024]

You have a group of assassins that lead normal daily lives in a small town.. taking work as it comes, and otherwise, living in poor conditions. Then, they are threatened by another group of unknown assassins. They fight, movie ends.

Not gonna lie.. I was quite disappointed with my viewing and just wanted it to end after a while.

This feels like a somewhat aimless story with an underwritten script, or a side story to an existing show, where the character backgrounds actually matter. With a story that seems to lack a decent structure, exciting developments and a well planned groundwork to make any part of it compelling! With a lack of depth, music repeating noticeably, clashing tone of grim and silly.. There's little reason to recommend it, too.

The Last Duel (2021)

"And there's no end to my decency"

[5/10 · 25 April 2024]

Ah! I was led to believe this was almost three stories in one.

Thankfully, the script is more straightforward and plain than it could have mustered, and it doesn't muddle the narrative with unnecessary distractions of poorly-written plots or different points of view when it comes to morals (specially for that time). Someone is "right", and whatever comes of it does not displease! That is to say, I quite enjoyed the good production and decent execution of it all, as well as most of the cast and their acting.. Yet the movie is a tad too long, lacks in charms/memorability/dialogue/intrigue and the spark that would give one satisfaction with its developments. It is also quite hard to be enthralled when there is no side to be taken, by a lack of interest or appealing prospects! Only an enjoyment of the happenings of that time-setting and a conclusion to a premise.

A fine movie! Not made for me. But, I'm sure it will enrich those that seek this genre.

River (2023)

"I'm a bit tired.. Body and Mind"

[6/10 · 24 April 2024]

More than a movie.. this is feels like an interesting short/project (one seemingly funded via MotionGallery).

You can see the amateurish cinematography, where you are reminded that there's someone behind a camera running around. The acting is good (for the most part), the characters energetic, the location makes the film, and the developments entertaining enough to retain one's attention. The OST is memorable and the ending a bit out there.. which makes it all a very particular and memorable experience!! Eloquent human-self centrism appreciated.

I've seen enough things (even Japanese) not to be surprised or shocked by the developments. But it is quite fun and some might even find it very different! Reason enough for me to encourage anyone into giving it a try.

Brooklyn (2015)

"There's nothing you can do about it apart from endure it"

[6/10 · 24 April 2024]

Homesickness, romance, tragedy.. and resolution.

This somewhat reminded me of 2023's "Past Lives" (except the tragedy part)! With a rather simple plot, while very character-centered. With a lot of time put into the weight on one's actions, decisions, thoughts and emotions. It is very well executed, and if you are in the mood, you'll feel it more than you will remember it! Still, it feels like an episode or a summary more than a movie (even with an almost-2-hour runtime).

It is well acted, but not particularly memorable. It is well shot and lit, and sometimes it feels a tad too quiet. But I enjoyed it still, although I wouldn't particularly recommend it for any particular element of it.

47 Ronin (1994)

"In that case.. do what you want"

[5/10 · 22 April 2024]

Plot : Two Feudal Lords have a dispute inside the Shogun's Castle (drawing of swords is prohibited!). In response, one of these clans is immediately abolished and the head is ordered to commit suicide. The poor investigation and prompt response leaves the clan-less Samurai disappointed, and bow to seek revenge for their master's wrongful death against the other involved Clan head..

Review : Another reviewer said that it isn't for anyone that doesn't already know the story.. and I agree completely.

The story is hard to follow from the start, as the most important events happen off screen and the narrative builds from that! I felt the film demands too much piecing-together from the audience!! Thankfully, this popular story has been done too many times. And I can highly recommend the much better (1978) "The Fall of Ako Castle" (with Toshiro Mifune) for first time viewers. Sadly, I also found the pacing, structure and other important story-telling details to hinder my enjoyment.. even after I realized what I was watching.

Hades Project Zeorymer (1988– )

"Dimensional Coupler System"

[5/10 · 21 April 2024]

I found about this as it was compared to Evangelion (predating it by almost a decade)! With it's giant Robots, world conquest plot, emotional teenage pilots, and even visual similarities in HQs.

And while the art/animation are great (as most anything from that time) and it has some interesting ideas.. the four 20+ minute episodes don't leave a lot of space for character exploration or proper world building. The ending is not particularly satisfactory either! And while I enjoyed it, there's nothing very memorable about it all aside from a few robot designs, the overpowered and underused dimensional coupler system, and a twist that could have been SO much better if done correctly in a more chess-like game between factions (like Code Geass aspired to create).

It is good enough still to watch nowadays, but one cannot escape from its hollowness and short running time (which in this case could be seen as a positive).

Oni: Thunder God's Tale (2022)

Cucumber party.. Yummy-yummy in my tummy.

[5/10 · 21 April 2024]

It's short, it's cute, and visually appealing!

A beautifully stop-motion animated 4-episode story with decent messaging for kids! Like the dangers of trampling over tradition, not taking care of nature, fear against things that are different, and losing one self to emotions and the enemy being within ourselves.. or something. Still, it is energetic enough to distract younger audiences (target demographic)!

I've seen this done better in other places, which makes it hard to stand-out, even with a Japanese Yokai theme. The choppy framerate certainly gives it personality and style.. but also made it very distracting, and hard to enjoy. And overall, doesn't overstay its welcome, but doesn't linger enough to be memorable or recommendable.

Rebel Moon - Part Two: The Scargiver (2024)

"We don't know how bad the damage was.."

[2/10 · 21 April 2024]

Slow-motion farming.. Slow-motion water-refilling.. Grain-bag filling, falling, dying, you name it. This is unnecessary-slow-motion the movie.

And while this sequel is easier to swallow, it continues a hollow story of unlikeable characters. And less time for world-building doesn't excuse the lack of it! Rebel Moon has gotten 4 hours, and has done nothing with it.. Character backgrounds coming out half-way during the second movie is inexcusable and poor writing, and I still don't buy the displayed camaraderie anyway.

If Hallmark made Sci-Fi films, I would believe this to be one of them! Not sure why I gave it a chance, as I feel I've wasted my time in the end.

Kung Fu Panda 4 (2024)

"Hit me Baby but not too hard"

[4/10 · 20 April 2024]

This one has to be the most inconsequential entry in the franchise.

With on-point characterization (not dialogue), scale, presentation, energy, choreographies, camerawork and animations doing all the work (all of my score).. leaving the story and weight completely to the side. You can (and probably should) skip the fathers journey, mute the movie, and you'd have an enjoyable (smaller) epilogue that is not required to be watched, or that was necessary after 8 years!! Also, never been a fan of big casting for animated films (my least favorite part of Kung Fu Panda).. and pointlessly adding awkwafina to the mix only makes it worse (mr beast is in it too, for no reason). Add an OST that doesn't match the tone, and there's little to enjoy besides the visuals.

Kids might enjoy the visual distraction and the occasional fart, but there was little in it for me.

Ninja hichô: Fukurô no shiro (1963)

"Shouldn't humans live happily?"

[5/10 · 19 April 2024]

I'm torn, since I found it to be a mixed bag of great moments and a (mostly) poor execution of a decent idea.

A half-decent film that touches on a man's honor and duty for revenge.. while balancing his "new desires" and the future of his country. The premise itself is rather interesting, and the characters likeable! With an ending that is quite memorable. And while the cinematography provides the viewer with some eye-catching and impressive moments, it also often leaves a lot to be desired. Specially during action scenes.. on a Shinobi movie of all places!! But when it goes slowly, that's when I found its appeal. All this without mentioning the messy and choppy editing or the inconsistent sound mixing/levels.

Too many issues for me to recommend or enjoy fully..

Fireheart (2022)

"You could have lived your dream.. if you were a boy"

[5/10 · 19 April 2024]

A Firefighter animation film with a Ghostbusters-like villain.. with a premise out of the 90s.

No surprise here, but this overly-energetic film is aimed at children! With plentiful antics that distract long enough for the movie to be over. There's training scenes, bad guy hidden-identity (that is somewhat predictable) and an "agenda" with a small (but somewhat appreciated) twist. The family dynamic reminds of Inspector Gadget.. with a childish female lead that fails to be charming, and doesn't have the knowledge/training to match her enthusiasm (for a profession she was supposedly denied due to her gender, but still wants more than anything). At least the father is well written and likeable.. everyone else isn't. The music is decent, and it aims high enough to be commendable!

Still, not sure if I would recommend it, as I found it rather boring.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith (2007 TV Movie)

"This one here! I would eat that off you"

[6/10 · 15 April 2024]

As far as obscure and unnecessary-remake pilot TV Movies go.. this is quite decent!

It is well casted (I find Jordana Brewster quite appealing), leads have (surprisingly) good chemistry, it's very energetic in its dynamics and actions and has good cinematography. It also imitates the Brad Pitt and Angelina's 2005 release very well! Which would be amazing if not for the fact that the Director and Writer are the same.. Still, it is smart enough to keep things simple and moving.

Not a lot more to say about a project that was conceived only to die out the door. Specially for a franchise that has been remade too many times.

I think it's on YouTube if you are interested.

Fallout (2024– )

"Hard to tell.. show me the illustration"

[5/10 · 12 April 2024]

I know about Fallout, as I've picked up on it through cultural exposure, but never directly.

This show makes me feel like I should at least play New Vegas! Because, while the visuals and execution are decent-to-good, it does a poor job at making me care about anything that's going on. From charmless actors with boring and unlikeable characters, horrible pacing and plenty of empty drawn-out moments... to dull writing, dialogues and interactions. No particular element grabbed my attention, and I felt finishing this show was a chore I had to get through.

I'm saddened at the delivery of what seemed like a promising new show to watch.. but it reminds me a lot of all the problems I had with the later Westworld seasons, where nothing was particularly interesting.

Shogun (1980)

"I have no confidence in the sun!"

[6/10 · 11 April 2024]

I started this years ago, and was unable to continue.. it seems that the new remake of the book has changed that a bit!

This mini series is 4 DVDs long (plus one filled with extras) and over 40 years old, yet still quite interesting and insightful (with some liberties outside of reality, from the author). It is also quite different from what I've seen in the 2024 version so far, and much more summarized and lacking in "meat". It is more of a romance and less tactical-intrigue. For it's time, it must been a cultural-shock to many! While still being quite appealing.

Personally, I find the lack of Japanese subtitles (and only an English narrator when desired) undesired.. as many things are somewhat lost, but not enough to affect one's appreciation. It's also not as detailed or in-depth as one would hope (specially when it comes to military affairs and political conflicts). But the present ability to compare, gives the impression of a "completed story" told by two different accounts. Quite lucky to be able to enjoy both! And I've read that reading the book was a necessity back then. The series is good, specially for its time! With too many hardships to even record it in the first place.

Truly a treasure.

Sleeping Dogs (2024)

A lot of somethings and maybes and ifs and buts

[6/10 · 11 April 2024]

Not to be confused with the video game of the same title! You have an Alzheimer ex-cop receiving a new treatment, who is told to keep his mind active.

A coincidental case he worked in comes back into his life, and he decides to investigate further.. because he has nothing better to do! And possibly save a man from wrong-doings.

The film is slow, tense and interesting enough to get going! Too much fish-eye cinematography in enclosed spaces for my liking.

But it doesn't really slow down (good pacing), and delivers on a good story, even if doesn't wow. Still, I found the ending predictable and not very satisfactory.. but it is well written and acted. Perfectly watchable for a streaming release.

And @1:34:54, was that the AI news voice guy you hear in YouTube lately?

The Sum of All Fears (2002)

"Better to appear guilty than impotent"

[7/10 · 9 April 2024]

It just dawned on me, after watching it, that this was a Jack Ryan movie. Had I realized sooner, I wonder if I would have enjoyed it less.. knowing that mr Ryan always delivers himself.

Still, it is weighty, isn't afraid to "go places" with its very fictional and tense developments. The whole thing is classy and quite enjoyable for an action-war-thriller! With many moving parts and a rather simplistic story (with a decent premise) that is well executed. The casting is good (although Ben Affleck is a little cartoonish and green for the role, in my opinion) and the sound mixing and choices are memorable.

Easy recommendation for a 20-year old movie that has held well.

U.S. Marshals (1998)

"I'm going back to bed"

[5/10 · 2 April 2024]

One of the same writer from The Fugitive (1993) film helped with the script.. which makes this pseudo-sequel with a very similar structure and no new ideas.

While the production is good (exploding planes and all), the narrative and execution are not.

From very coincidental sequence of events that start it all up, a nonsensical plot that could have ended if no one did anything, and a dissatisfying and predictable ending anyone could see coming.. all tied together by endless running around. Even the good casting and overall okay-acting didn't help me enjoy my viewing of it. A surprise appearance of a younger Robert Downey Jr. Was the highlight for me.. so not much.

Completely harmless and forgettable.

Andor (2022– )

"Something sad but inspiring in a mundane sort of way"

[6/10 · 30 March 2024]

A bit long-winded, but the setup pays off. This has done more for the worldbuilding of Star Wars.. than Star Wars originally did!

It only took them more than 4 decades to make palpable the threat of the growing Empire, and how it finally choked the people enough to spark a rebellion. It's quite fascinating in how well-written and believable it all is. It's almost like someone sat down and actually thought about it!! Unlike other recent and mediocre releases.

The trade off? It feels too adjacent and detailed, compared to what the simplicity of the Hero's Journey grew up with. What this covers was then sidelined and almost unimportant.. we never even got to think about it.

And while I feel it ultimately delivered and was well executed, there are parts that could be trimmed. The characters could be more memorable.. as no one stands out, but everyone does as a whole. Oh, and I found myself enjoying the scarce moments of "office talk" in white buildings on how to suppress.. more than most events that push these dialogues forward.

Alas, I don't think it could have been any better, but it's not my kind of show and I'm disinterested in the timing, topic covered (while knowing the conclusion) and potential sequels.

I don't think current SW needs anything more, considering it is beyond ruined.

Kage gari (1972)

"I make a Virtue out of Cruelty"

[7/10 · 18 March 2024]

Three Shinobi (ninja) Hunters are hired to stop a group of.. Ninja, from destroying a small Fief out of the waning Government's greed.

Plot is secondary to the sparse gratuitous-nudity and plenty of bloodshed (one is more appreciated than the other)!

But it serves its purpose in specifying the era and the objective of those in play. As a stepping point, it is quite interesting (specially for those of us interested in Daimyo and the like). It also feels quite focused and smart from what you'd expect.. if not a bit barren. The type of movie you watch to pass the time more than anything.

Still, the strongest part of the movie is certainly the Lead Trio, as they show strong and believable camaraderie, well-written characters, decent enough backgrounds, interesting personalities and even "weaknesses". Secondary is the plentiful action that is never over the top. Sound effects are cheese but fit well (the musical score is almost-horrid), excellent lighting, good locations and overall acting. One thing I respect and love about this film, it's how they use the camera and cinematography angles to hide Shinobi for surprise attacks and to show their agility!

Finally, I quite liked the unexpected final resolution! As in, it was a tad unpredictable as well as abrupt! Not to say that it feels incomplete.. but I'll definitely be watching the sequel next, to hopefully get more closure.

"Make women happy by letting them play with your swords" is an idea uttered in the film. Make of that what you will.

Easy recommendation.

Damsel (2024)

"I think I had a limited definition of wealthy"

[4/10 · 9 March 2024]

A fairy-tale setup makes for an interesting premise.. sadly, it feels as dense as a page.

The over abundance of groaning and walking, and not much else for a large portion of the script.. plus a noticeable lack of engrossing dialogue, interactions and wit, make for quite a dull film. It is as predictable as it is slow to get going, but I at least enjoyed the production and visuals throughout! The cast is okay, and nothing else. This would make for an excellent short, where many elements are trimmed (the "Augur of Ebrietas" slugs).. as most characters are as simplistic and shallow as shown immediately after their quick introductions, so the rest of the story would remain intact.

Personally, I don't appreciate movies that have little to nothing to say.

Dune: Part Two (2024)

"He's impressive indeed!"

[5/10 · 9 March 2024]

I understand these are excellent adaptations of the books, the cinematography and locations are good.

But as a "popcorn flick" to watch in theaters, it has little to offer. Specially for a sequel! Overall, they aren't particularly stunning (real locations and a few color changes, sure), and the constant desert setting dulls the experience.. As for the script, it is rather long and doesn't accomplish much. The emotional core (leads) of the film isn't close to being strong enough for a hook. And there's little Imperial conflict to care about the overall war. And then, you have a Messiah lead that ultimately becomes invincible, with a plot device that dumbs down the upcoming developments and distracts the viewer (possible plot-holes and inconsistencies).

Hard to recommend when it is as slow and dull as it was. Now, if you are a fan of Dune! I can imagine it can't get any better than this.

Argylle (2024)

"Mama's gotta get to work"

[7/10 · 7 March 2024]

Knowing what this movie is attempting to be.. it is quite fun and colorful!

Certainly more layered and unexpected than you'd think.. albeit its more predictable parts (that just come with the genre).

You have a spy-adjacent plotline that develops in good pace and is mostly interesting. Good choreographies, with two that stand out (one for being a spectacle, and a more impressive action scene I'd re-watch any day). The CGI is kind of iffy, though. But the locations and general production match the energy of the script. Impressive cast and good acting all around!

Easy recommendation for anyone wanting to watch a fun action film with no consequences.