The violence is exhilarating to behold, but the film's myriad plot holes and insulting lack of logic mean that this is director Craig Zohlers worst film to date.
Reviews
22 Reviews
Lovely
31 May 2019
Angelica
(2015)
Boo
30 May 2019
One of the best dramas I've ever seen. The story is well crafted, the cinematography and set design are both beautiful. The acting is solid throughout.
I found every second of this film to be riveting. It's a damn fine film that will have you pondering its intricacies and subtleties long after the credits have rolled.
I found every second of this film to be riveting. It's a damn fine film that will have you pondering its intricacies and subtleties long after the credits have rolled.
Summer of 84
(2018)
A Nice Homage
20 May 2019
Summer of '84 is a lovingly crafted homage to films of the 80s, and plays like an excellent cross between The 'Burbs and The Goonies. The story revolves around a group of kids who begin to suspect that one of their neighbors is a notorious serial killer.
The child actors are excellent. Unfortunately, they're handed a lot of rubbish dialogue about tits and masturbation during the first half hour or so. It really seems like it was written by someone who had no friends at that age who just speculated as to what teenagers talked about. Thankfully, this subject matter tapers off after the first act.
This film was made by the directorial trio responsible for Turbo Kid, which is an all time favorite of mine. Summer of 84 isnt nearly as excellent as TK, but it does manage to hold it's own.
The cinematography is decent, if mostly unimaginative. The synth score by Le Matos is just okay, and sounds a bit generic. The film is also dragged down by a handful of cheap and dull jump scares.
Overall, a solid film that all fans of horror and 80s family films should check out.
7/10
The child actors are excellent. Unfortunately, they're handed a lot of rubbish dialogue about tits and masturbation during the first half hour or so. It really seems like it was written by someone who had no friends at that age who just speculated as to what teenagers talked about. Thankfully, this subject matter tapers off after the first act.
This film was made by the directorial trio responsible for Turbo Kid, which is an all time favorite of mine. Summer of 84 isnt nearly as excellent as TK, but it does manage to hold it's own.
The cinematography is decent, if mostly unimaginative. The synth score by Le Matos is just okay, and sounds a bit generic. The film is also dragged down by a handful of cheap and dull jump scares.
Overall, a solid film that all fans of horror and 80s family films should check out.
7/10
It Came from the Desert
(2017)
Best Bug Movie In Years
19 May 2019
Modern day big bug/creature features have an unfortunate habit of assaulting our eyes and sensibilities with atrocious CGI and lackluster filmmaking. Just look at films like Big Ass Spider, Lavalantula and the Sharktopus series and you'll see what I'm talking about. They're visually ugly, incompetent, the CGI is ugly and the films are almost impossible to sit through. Which is why It Came From The Desert is such a breath of fresh air.
The visual effects and CGI are pretty good. Yes, there's the occasional, obvious green screen shot and dip in quality, but these are few and far between. The giant ants are believable and well put together. I'll always prefer practical effects to heavy use of CG, but I have to say that this film's quality is miles above that of other recent bug/monster movies.
The first thing I noticed was how good the cinematography is. The color correction is also spot on. Set design is effective and helps build a legitimately creepy atmosphere.
The synth score is good and also helps build atmosphere, but the licensed songs consist of generic party tunes and lame metalcore songs.
Acting is inconsistent. One moment the actor's performances will be spot on, and the next everyone will be hamming it up for no apparent reason.
There are a lot of fun nods and homages to both classic bug movies and 80s action movie cheese fests.
One aspect of the film that concerned me was the barrage of reference "humor". Seriously, people need to learn that having a character reference The Avengers or Jurassic Park is not, on its own, a joke. These references get pretty obnoxious at points, so be warned.
It Came From The Desert is a solid big bug creature feature that works both as an homage to the classics and as its own thing. The film is action-packed fun, pure and simple.
7/10
The visual effects and CGI are pretty good. Yes, there's the occasional, obvious green screen shot and dip in quality, but these are few and far between. The giant ants are believable and well put together. I'll always prefer practical effects to heavy use of CG, but I have to say that this film's quality is miles above that of other recent bug/monster movies.
The first thing I noticed was how good the cinematography is. The color correction is also spot on. Set design is effective and helps build a legitimately creepy atmosphere.
The synth score is good and also helps build atmosphere, but the licensed songs consist of generic party tunes and lame metalcore songs.
Acting is inconsistent. One moment the actor's performances will be spot on, and the next everyone will be hamming it up for no apparent reason.
There are a lot of fun nods and homages to both classic bug movies and 80s action movie cheese fests.
One aspect of the film that concerned me was the barrage of reference "humor". Seriously, people need to learn that having a character reference The Avengers or Jurassic Park is not, on its own, a joke. These references get pretty obnoxious at points, so be warned.
It Came From The Desert is a solid big bug creature feature that works both as an homage to the classics and as its own thing. The film is action-packed fun, pure and simple.
7/10
Hooray
19 May 2019
The John Wick series is the very best place to go if you want intense, incredibly well-choreographed action.
The film opens immediately after Chapter 2, with John Wick an hour away from being excommunicated from the assassin community and being marked for death. While the story structure is just fine, the action is what takes center stage. The film feels like it has more action sequences than the first two titles put together. John Wick 3 works miracles though, and these scenes never get tiring or overstay their welcome. They are also shot in such a way that glorifies the fight choreography and follows the fights in a coherent manner. Most action films focus on multiple edits per second in order to manufacture intensity from a dull fight, but the fights and shootouts in JW3 stand on their own.
The acting is excellent all around. Veteran characters like Winston, the Concierge and the Bowery King all get their time in the spotlight. New characters like the Adjudicator and Zero are excellent.
Sadly, there are a couple of negatives. Once in a while there are lapses in logic. On more than one occasion I found myself mentally urging characters to just shoot someone already, because letting them live will just cause bigger problems later on. And sure enough, those problems come flooding in.
Near the end, a character with whom we are quite familiar makes a baffling and idiotic decision that completely goes against his character.
I also wasn't thrilled with the fact that the film spent time setting up another sequel. This series hasn't dipped in quality yet, but if they keep going on without end, then they're sure to slip up at some point.
All in all, a damn fine cinematic experience. The major theme at work is that actions have consequences. If you decide to see this film, the consequence is that you will be thrilled for almost every second of the runtime.
9/10
The film opens immediately after Chapter 2, with John Wick an hour away from being excommunicated from the assassin community and being marked for death. While the story structure is just fine, the action is what takes center stage. The film feels like it has more action sequences than the first two titles put together. John Wick 3 works miracles though, and these scenes never get tiring or overstay their welcome. They are also shot in such a way that glorifies the fight choreography and follows the fights in a coherent manner. Most action films focus on multiple edits per second in order to manufacture intensity from a dull fight, but the fights and shootouts in JW3 stand on their own.
The acting is excellent all around. Veteran characters like Winston, the Concierge and the Bowery King all get their time in the spotlight. New characters like the Adjudicator and Zero are excellent.
Sadly, there are a couple of negatives. Once in a while there are lapses in logic. On more than one occasion I found myself mentally urging characters to just shoot someone already, because letting them live will just cause bigger problems later on. And sure enough, those problems come flooding in.
Near the end, a character with whom we are quite familiar makes a baffling and idiotic decision that completely goes against his character.
I also wasn't thrilled with the fact that the film spent time setting up another sequel. This series hasn't dipped in quality yet, but if they keep going on without end, then they're sure to slip up at some point.
All in all, a damn fine cinematic experience. The major theme at work is that actions have consequences. If you decide to see this film, the consequence is that you will be thrilled for almost every second of the runtime.
9/10
Lords of Chaos
(2018)
Yay
18 May 2019
Lords of Chaos is an excellent, well-made drama about Mayhem, the band that launched Norwegian black metal and whose lunatic bassist Varg Vikkernes started the infamous church burnings of the early 90s.
The acting is pretty good. I was suspect when I heard that Rory Culkin would be playing Euronymous, but he does complete justice to the man, and disappears into the role. The guy portraying Varg was good, but the problem is that he's not the least bit menacing or intimidating. He just comes off as a whiny wannabe for the most part.
The rest of the band is passable, but they dont get all that much screen time.
The direction is good, as is the cinematography. I think some of the best shots in the film are of the churches burning, which are shot in such a way as to really communicate the malice behind the actions.
The structure is ok, but not as good as it could have been. At 2 hours long, I feel like more time should have been spent developing the side characters. Faust gets a bit of an arc, but Hellhammer is totally abandoned. The first 20 or so minutes relies on bullet point storytelling, which makes the film difficult to get into at first.
All in all, it's a mostly well-acted, directed and produced film, and a faithful depiction of the events that transpired.
8/10
The acting is pretty good. I was suspect when I heard that Rory Culkin would be playing Euronymous, but he does complete justice to the man, and disappears into the role. The guy portraying Varg was good, but the problem is that he's not the least bit menacing or intimidating. He just comes off as a whiny wannabe for the most part.
The rest of the band is passable, but they dont get all that much screen time.
The direction is good, as is the cinematography. I think some of the best shots in the film are of the churches burning, which are shot in such a way as to really communicate the malice behind the actions.
The structure is ok, but not as good as it could have been. At 2 hours long, I feel like more time should have been spent developing the side characters. Faust gets a bit of an arc, but Hellhammer is totally abandoned. The first 20 or so minutes relies on bullet point storytelling, which makes the film difficult to get into at first.
All in all, it's a mostly well-acted, directed and produced film, and a faithful depiction of the events that transpired.
8/10
Far Cry
(2008)
Ow
13 May 2019
This film is painful to watch.
It starts off with a scene that's supposed to be tense and scary, but the amateur cinematography will throw you off and make you wonder why the hell no one decided to go for a second take.
It doesn't get much better from there.
The movie plods along at a snails pace, which is especially painful because the characters on display are impossible to care about. They're bland and uninteresting. We're given a lot of scenes that are supposed to act as comic relief, but they just physically hurt. The romance scene between our two lead actors is the most awkward thing in the movie by far.
As for the acting, the two leads are passable, as is Udo Kier, but everyone else is so awful that you can hardly believe it.
The story isn't great, either. The plot revolves around an island where creepy looking super soldiers are being developed. The "Plot", as it were, is quickly shelved to make way for endless scenes of soldiers shooting each other. I'm not against action-heavy movies. In fact, they can be quite fun when done properly. However, the action on display here is as bland and lifeless as the monsters. There are car chases, boat chases, explosions and endless bullets flying, but it's all so poorly executed and shot that it just numbs the senses and damn near put me to sleep.
Honestly, it's hard to think of any redeeming values this film may possess. I can't recommend this movie, not under any circumstances.
It starts off with a scene that's supposed to be tense and scary, but the amateur cinematography will throw you off and make you wonder why the hell no one decided to go for a second take.
It doesn't get much better from there.
The movie plods along at a snails pace, which is especially painful because the characters on display are impossible to care about. They're bland and uninteresting. We're given a lot of scenes that are supposed to act as comic relief, but they just physically hurt. The romance scene between our two lead actors is the most awkward thing in the movie by far.
As for the acting, the two leads are passable, as is Udo Kier, but everyone else is so awful that you can hardly believe it.
The story isn't great, either. The plot revolves around an island where creepy looking super soldiers are being developed. The "Plot", as it were, is quickly shelved to make way for endless scenes of soldiers shooting each other. I'm not against action-heavy movies. In fact, they can be quite fun when done properly. However, the action on display here is as bland and lifeless as the monsters. There are car chases, boat chases, explosions and endless bullets flying, but it's all so poorly executed and shot that it just numbs the senses and damn near put me to sleep.
Honestly, it's hard to think of any redeeming values this film may possess. I can't recommend this movie, not under any circumstances.
Stoic
(2009)
wow
13 May 2019
I never thought I'd see the day when I'd witness an Uwe Boll film that was not only competent, but compelling as well. This film is dark, and not for the faint of heart. It's not as horrific as films like Salo or A Serbian Film, but it's a taught and stressful experience nonetheless.
The cinematography is largely handheld, which helps add tension and convey the frantic and disturbing mood. Boll's direction is far more competent here than in any of his other films. The acting is very convincing, and watching Edward Furlong, the kid we all loved in T2 and Detroit Rock City, unleash his inner demon is a genuinely frightening thing to behold.
Unlike something like, say, A Serbian Film, Stoic has a message to it. It's not blatant exploitation for the sake of ruffling people's feathers. It'll make you think after the credits roll, and make you fear what horrific acts people are capable of committing with hardly any provocation.
After Last Season
(2009)
Why?
9 May 2019
Honestly, I can't even believe it. The film is visually ugly and technically incompetent.
What a mess.
Can't believe this had a 5 million dollar budget. Set design is nothing short of atrocious. The acting is horrible and the direction is senseless and nonexistent.
Please don't torture yourself with this garbage.
What a mess.
Can't believe this had a 5 million dollar budget. Set design is nothing short of atrocious. The acting is horrible and the direction is senseless and nonexistent.
Please don't torture yourself with this garbage.
Why?
23 June 2017
I usually try and put some thought into my reviews, but I just can't for this one. I suspect that this is because the film has destroyed the majority of my brain cells. And this is not an incident contained to myself, either. The film was so toxic, so awash with stupidity, that the first four rows of people in the theater died because they had gotten too close to it. I have no proof, but I highly suspect that the projectionist has to wear a radiation suit to protect themselves whenever they handle the film reels.
As much as I want these movies to stop, I know that they never will because they somehow manage to make rivers of cash.
Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go jump off of a bridge.
As much as I want these movies to stop, I know that they never will because they somehow manage to make rivers of cash.
Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go jump off of a bridge.
Alien: Covenant
(2017)
Yikes
29 May 2017
Warning: Spoilers
I was excited when I entered the theater. I couldn't wait for Alien:Covenant to begin. Anticipation coursed through my veins as I angrily cursed the existence of the annoying, pre-show BS.
When I stood up from my seat and left the theater, I was angry as could be.
So what's so bad about the film?
First off, it comes with the 'Alien' moniker in the title. As such, it would be fair to assume that it's part of the Alien franchise, right? Well, not so. In fact, it's a direct sequel to Prometheus, and our beloved Xenomorph is nowhere to be seen for almost an hour- and-a- half. The film should've been titled 'Prometheus 2 Feat. Alien and James Franco for some reason'.
Yes, James Franco is present here. For about a grand total of 30 seconds. I really don't know why this is, but it's a symptom of a bigger disease that the film suffers from: wasting good actors.
Excellent actors such as Katherine Waterston, Billy Crudup, Demian Bechir and Danny McBride are brought in and given NOTHING to do, as all they do is inhabit shallow husks of what should be actual characters. NONE of the Covenant crew are developed at all, which means that when the developmentally disabled-looking creatures start bursting from people's backs and throats, the result is that I don't care. The graphic and gory visual effects are fun to behold, but lose some of their shock value when the person dying means nothing to the audience.
The only one who gets out of this unsullied is Michael Fassbender, whose two characters are given some great, though semi-pretentious, scenes together. As ponderous and interesting as they are, even they aren't safe from some unintentionally hilarious dialogue. (You blow the flute, I'll do the fingering.)
What really aggravates me is the fact that Covenant's existence came at the expense of director Neill Blomkamp's proposed Alien film, which would have been a direct sequel to Aliens. It sounded excellent, and now it's never going to happen because Ridley Scott got a bug up his ass about making a new movie in the franchise. But instead of delivering something intelligent and stylish like Prometheus, he gave us a weird, pseudo-sequel to BOTH Prometheus and Alien, threw in several dull horror tropes, uninteresting characters and bad dialogue. The result is an absolute mess, and feels like what it is: two movies awkwardly mashed together.
Not even the scenes that actually feature the Xenomorph-proper work very well, as they're completely devoid of tension and horror, instead settling for blood and fire-your-weapon-blindly style action.
But it's not all bad. As mentioned previously, the gore-spattered special effects offer a bit of a visceral thrill to an otherwise dull flick. Michael Fassbender's scenes with himself are well-acted and interesting.
I love Ridley Scott as a filmmaker. But even I have to admit that he really screwed up with this one.
3/10
When I stood up from my seat and left the theater, I was angry as could be.
So what's so bad about the film?
First off, it comes with the 'Alien' moniker in the title. As such, it would be fair to assume that it's part of the Alien franchise, right? Well, not so. In fact, it's a direct sequel to Prometheus, and our beloved Xenomorph is nowhere to be seen for almost an hour- and-a- half. The film should've been titled 'Prometheus 2 Feat. Alien and James Franco for some reason'.
Yes, James Franco is present here. For about a grand total of 30 seconds. I really don't know why this is, but it's a symptom of a bigger disease that the film suffers from: wasting good actors.
Excellent actors such as Katherine Waterston, Billy Crudup, Demian Bechir and Danny McBride are brought in and given NOTHING to do, as all they do is inhabit shallow husks of what should be actual characters. NONE of the Covenant crew are developed at all, which means that when the developmentally disabled-looking creatures start bursting from people's backs and throats, the result is that I don't care. The graphic and gory visual effects are fun to behold, but lose some of their shock value when the person dying means nothing to the audience.
The only one who gets out of this unsullied is Michael Fassbender, whose two characters are given some great, though semi-pretentious, scenes together. As ponderous and interesting as they are, even they aren't safe from some unintentionally hilarious dialogue. (You blow the flute, I'll do the fingering.)
What really aggravates me is the fact that Covenant's existence came at the expense of director Neill Blomkamp's proposed Alien film, which would have been a direct sequel to Aliens. It sounded excellent, and now it's never going to happen because Ridley Scott got a bug up his ass about making a new movie in the franchise. But instead of delivering something intelligent and stylish like Prometheus, he gave us a weird, pseudo-sequel to BOTH Prometheus and Alien, threw in several dull horror tropes, uninteresting characters and bad dialogue. The result is an absolute mess, and feels like what it is: two movies awkwardly mashed together.
Not even the scenes that actually feature the Xenomorph-proper work very well, as they're completely devoid of tension and horror, instead settling for blood and fire-your-weapon-blindly style action.
But it's not all bad. As mentioned previously, the gore-spattered special effects offer a bit of a visceral thrill to an otherwise dull flick. Michael Fassbender's scenes with himself are well-acted and interesting.
I love Ridley Scott as a filmmaker. But even I have to admit that he really screwed up with this one.
3/10
Ghost in the Shell
(2017)
Brilliant In Every Way
7 April 2017
I figured that Ghost In The Shell was going to be good, but I never expected it to be THIS good.
I'd like to begin by addressing those people who are upset about the casting of Scarlett Johansson. First off, calm the hell down. Johansson is perfect in the role, and helps bring a real emotional heft to the story. Second, if you actually take the time to WATCH the film instead of being an overly-sensitive and judgmental toolbox, you'll find that the franchise's Asian roots are far from ignored. In fact, they're celebrated.
Scarlett Johansson is magnificent as the Major. Every one of her line readings is spot on and dripping with emotion. As a side note, I don't believe she's ever looked as beautiful as she does in this film.
The supporting cast is just as good, but famed Japanese auteur Takeshi Kitano steals the show as Daisuke Aramaki. All of his scenes in the third act were greeted with cheers and applause at the screening I attended. I was very glad to see Kitano in a big budget American film, portraying the type of character that he usually does: Calm, violent and awesome.
The film's visuals and cinematography are two more pieces of brilliance. Director Rupert Sanders only previous directorial credit, Snow White And The Huntsman, looked good. But Ghost In The Shell is the movie that solidifies him as a truly visionary filmmaker. I've never been overly fond of 3D in film, but it's used to stunning effect here.
I also have to take a moment and praise the writing. The films themes tackle poignant issues of self identity and what it means to be human. Yes, such issues have been done before, but I've never seen then addressed as well as they are here.
All in all, Ghost In The Shell is nothing short of cinematic magnificence. If you don't see this one, you'll regret it.
10/10
I'd like to begin by addressing those people who are upset about the casting of Scarlett Johansson. First off, calm the hell down. Johansson is perfect in the role, and helps bring a real emotional heft to the story. Second, if you actually take the time to WATCH the film instead of being an overly-sensitive and judgmental toolbox, you'll find that the franchise's Asian roots are far from ignored. In fact, they're celebrated.
Scarlett Johansson is magnificent as the Major. Every one of her line readings is spot on and dripping with emotion. As a side note, I don't believe she's ever looked as beautiful as she does in this film.
The supporting cast is just as good, but famed Japanese auteur Takeshi Kitano steals the show as Daisuke Aramaki. All of his scenes in the third act were greeted with cheers and applause at the screening I attended. I was very glad to see Kitano in a big budget American film, portraying the type of character that he usually does: Calm, violent and awesome.
The film's visuals and cinematography are two more pieces of brilliance. Director Rupert Sanders only previous directorial credit, Snow White And The Huntsman, looked good. But Ghost In The Shell is the movie that solidifies him as a truly visionary filmmaker. I've never been overly fond of 3D in film, but it's used to stunning effect here.
I also have to take a moment and praise the writing. The films themes tackle poignant issues of self identity and what it means to be human. Yes, such issues have been done before, but I've never seen then addressed as well as they are here.
All in all, Ghost In The Shell is nothing short of cinematic magnificence. If you don't see this one, you'll regret it.
10/10
Goon: Last of the Enforcers
(2017)
A Brilliant Sequel
30 March 2017
Some will say that a sequel can never live up to the first film.
Goon: Last Of The Enforcers begs to disagree.
I was impressed with the writer's ability to squeeze another story out of Doug Glatt and the Highlanders. The story was very well done, and I enjoyed the fact that it managed to incorporate Liev Schreiber's character once again, in an enjoyable way that you may not be expecting. I enjoyed the inclusion of adult life, Doug having to balance hockey and an incoming child. The dramatic bits are very well done, and make you care for the character that much more.
Jay Baruchel's direction is also top notch, especially from a first time filmmaker. The fight scenes are gripping and bone-crunching, as are the hockey games themselves. Paul Sarossy's cinematography is very versatile and impressive, making the hockey and fight scenes a joy to look at.
Of course, there's the comedy. Seann William Scott is hilarious as lovable but dopey Doug Glatt. Jay Baruchel reprises his character from the first film and is just as hilarious as he was the first time around. The locker room antics of the team are also just as gut-busting as ever.
This film is humorous, touching and moving, and is on par with the first in terms of quality.
If you enjoyed the first Goon, then you'll love this one. I highly recommend this one.
9/10
Goon: Last Of The Enforcers begs to disagree.
I was impressed with the writer's ability to squeeze another story out of Doug Glatt and the Highlanders. The story was very well done, and I enjoyed the fact that it managed to incorporate Liev Schreiber's character once again, in an enjoyable way that you may not be expecting. I enjoyed the inclusion of adult life, Doug having to balance hockey and an incoming child. The dramatic bits are very well done, and make you care for the character that much more.
Jay Baruchel's direction is also top notch, especially from a first time filmmaker. The fight scenes are gripping and bone-crunching, as are the hockey games themselves. Paul Sarossy's cinematography is very versatile and impressive, making the hockey and fight scenes a joy to look at.
Of course, there's the comedy. Seann William Scott is hilarious as lovable but dopey Doug Glatt. Jay Baruchel reprises his character from the first film and is just as hilarious as he was the first time around. The locker room antics of the team are also just as gut-busting as ever.
This film is humorous, touching and moving, and is on par with the first in terms of quality.
If you enjoyed the first Goon, then you'll love this one. I highly recommend this one.
9/10
Logan
(2017)
Good...But Also A Bummer
9 March 2017
Warning: Spoilers
There is absolutely no way I can review this film without touching on major spoiler territory, so BE WARNED.
When it was first announced that Logan was going to be an R-rated film, I was both excited and worried. Excited because it seemed we would finally see Wolverine bloody up his claws. Worried that said blood would be a pointless visceral thrill that would add nothing to the film.
I was wrong there.
Is there blood and gore in this film? Hell yes. But instead of being blood for the sake of blood, the violence displayed actually fits the overall feel and tone of the film. This is a dark and bleak story, Wolverine is in an understandably dark and bleak mood, and so is the action dark and bleak.
And speaking of dark and bleak, let me just offer up a bit of a warning before you see the film. It's sad. Very sad. If the trailer made you well up with tears, the actual movie will reduce you to a blubbering mess. If you don't curl up in the fetal position by the time the credits roll, then you are a brave, brave person in my book.
But that's part of what makes the film so appealing. It's not a traditional superhero movie. The whole world is not in peril, Wolverine is not fighting for the safety of everyone, and the heroes are not at all guaranteed to live to fight another day. Logan is anything but predictable, and that makes it a real breath of fresh air despite all its gloominess.
The acting is pretty great. Hugh Jackman excels as a grizzled old Wolverine whose wounds are no longer healing because the Adamantium inside his body has now begun to poison and hinder him. Patrick Stewart as a dying Professor X gives us emotions galore. Relative newcomer Dafne Keen is excellent as a young X-23, a clone mutant whose entire life has been a living hell of experiments and suffering.
Of course, these performances also speak to the talent of director James Mangold (Walk The Line, The Wolverine), who keeps the film taut and emotional.
The cinematography by DP John Mathieson (47 Ronin, The Man From U.N.C.L.E.) is also top notch, making every portion of the film a joy to witness.
I can't find too much to complain about. The film seems a tad too long, but the convergence of emotional tangents at the tail end of the third act more than makes up for it.
As a long-time franchise fan, I can say that I both hated and adored the ending. Again, you will most likely cry your eyes out, so bring a box of tissues or something.
Despite the absolute anguish you will endure through the course of this film, I still highly recommend it. If you've been with the series and the character for this long, then you need to see this film, as it does close off Logan's character in a profound and deserving fashion.
One of the best uses of a superhero that's ever been put to film.
9/10
When it was first announced that Logan was going to be an R-rated film, I was both excited and worried. Excited because it seemed we would finally see Wolverine bloody up his claws. Worried that said blood would be a pointless visceral thrill that would add nothing to the film.
I was wrong there.
Is there blood and gore in this film? Hell yes. But instead of being blood for the sake of blood, the violence displayed actually fits the overall feel and tone of the film. This is a dark and bleak story, Wolverine is in an understandably dark and bleak mood, and so is the action dark and bleak.
And speaking of dark and bleak, let me just offer up a bit of a warning before you see the film. It's sad. Very sad. If the trailer made you well up with tears, the actual movie will reduce you to a blubbering mess. If you don't curl up in the fetal position by the time the credits roll, then you are a brave, brave person in my book.
But that's part of what makes the film so appealing. It's not a traditional superhero movie. The whole world is not in peril, Wolverine is not fighting for the safety of everyone, and the heroes are not at all guaranteed to live to fight another day. Logan is anything but predictable, and that makes it a real breath of fresh air despite all its gloominess.
The acting is pretty great. Hugh Jackman excels as a grizzled old Wolverine whose wounds are no longer healing because the Adamantium inside his body has now begun to poison and hinder him. Patrick Stewart as a dying Professor X gives us emotions galore. Relative newcomer Dafne Keen is excellent as a young X-23, a clone mutant whose entire life has been a living hell of experiments and suffering.
Of course, these performances also speak to the talent of director James Mangold (Walk The Line, The Wolverine), who keeps the film taut and emotional.
The cinematography by DP John Mathieson (47 Ronin, The Man From U.N.C.L.E.) is also top notch, making every portion of the film a joy to witness.
I can't find too much to complain about. The film seems a tad too long, but the convergence of emotional tangents at the tail end of the third act more than makes up for it.
As a long-time franchise fan, I can say that I both hated and adored the ending. Again, you will most likely cry your eyes out, so bring a box of tissues or something.
Despite the absolute anguish you will endure through the course of this film, I still highly recommend it. If you've been with the series and the character for this long, then you need to see this film, as it does close off Logan's character in a profound and deserving fashion.
One of the best uses of a superhero that's ever been put to film.
9/10
The Great Wall
(I) (2016)
Director's Cut, Please
4 March 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Let's talk about the good stuff first.
The Great Wall is a visual spectacle and a feast for the eyes. The CG is excellent and believable, the costume design is nothing short of magnificent and the action scenes are exciting and spectacular.
The film largely consists of Chinese actors, and any of you concerned that Matt Damon plays the part of the "white savior" cliché have nothing to worry about. If anything, his character is mostly a spectator, a cipher through which the audience can experience the on-screen wonders with a sense of awe.
And awe is the correct term for this film. Director Zhang Yimou (Hero, The Flowers of War) has had plenty of experience with action and here delivers a spectacle that only a truly visionary filmmaker could bring to life.
The creature design is also top-notch. The monsters look original and menacing, which is something I haven't seen much of in CG-generated monsters lately, and something that I personally appreciate very much.
That's not to say that the film is without flaw.
Clocking in at a mere 104 minutes, including credits, it feels much too short to properly convey the feelings of a secret order that has long been at war with a monstrous opponent. Also, some scenes seem shortened, doubtless a result of studio-mandated edits. Hopefully we'll see a Director's Cut Blu Ray release some day soon.
Also, some story elements are under-represented. The Nameless Order exists in name only. Little, if any, backstory is offered for the organization, which is disappointing as their existence hints at a very rich backstory.
My next problem is with the characters portrayed by actor Willem Dafoe. Dafoe plays the part well enough, but the character is simply not interesting. Again, little backstory is offered and neither is any character development. Add to that the fact that he's given a significant sub-plot which takes up quite a bit of screen time and the result was that I simply didn't care.
Spoilers ahead, so please be warned.
Let's talk about the ending. Damon's character gives up a romantic opportunity with the Nameless Order's general (played wonderfully by the unbelievably beautiful actress Jing Tian) in order to free and return home with the person who completely betrayed him and left him to die. The pure stupidity of this decision aggravated me to no end.
But overall these problems don't dampen the film all that much. The film still works, and those action scenes are sweeping in their scope and absolutely stunning in their originality. All in all, I still recommend the film very much, especially if you, like me, are a fan of Zhang Yimou's work.
Go out and see it.
7/10
The Great Wall is a visual spectacle and a feast for the eyes. The CG is excellent and believable, the costume design is nothing short of magnificent and the action scenes are exciting and spectacular.
The film largely consists of Chinese actors, and any of you concerned that Matt Damon plays the part of the "white savior" cliché have nothing to worry about. If anything, his character is mostly a spectator, a cipher through which the audience can experience the on-screen wonders with a sense of awe.
And awe is the correct term for this film. Director Zhang Yimou (Hero, The Flowers of War) has had plenty of experience with action and here delivers a spectacle that only a truly visionary filmmaker could bring to life.
The creature design is also top-notch. The monsters look original and menacing, which is something I haven't seen much of in CG-generated monsters lately, and something that I personally appreciate very much.
That's not to say that the film is without flaw.
Clocking in at a mere 104 minutes, including credits, it feels much too short to properly convey the feelings of a secret order that has long been at war with a monstrous opponent. Also, some scenes seem shortened, doubtless a result of studio-mandated edits. Hopefully we'll see a Director's Cut Blu Ray release some day soon.
Also, some story elements are under-represented. The Nameless Order exists in name only. Little, if any, backstory is offered for the organization, which is disappointing as their existence hints at a very rich backstory.
My next problem is with the characters portrayed by actor Willem Dafoe. Dafoe plays the part well enough, but the character is simply not interesting. Again, little backstory is offered and neither is any character development. Add to that the fact that he's given a significant sub-plot which takes up quite a bit of screen time and the result was that I simply didn't care.
Spoilers ahead, so please be warned.
Let's talk about the ending. Damon's character gives up a romantic opportunity with the Nameless Order's general (played wonderfully by the unbelievably beautiful actress Jing Tian) in order to free and return home with the person who completely betrayed him and left him to die. The pure stupidity of this decision aggravated me to no end.
But overall these problems don't dampen the film all that much. The film still works, and those action scenes are sweeping in their scope and absolutely stunning in their originality. All in all, I still recommend the film very much, especially if you, like me, are a fan of Zhang Yimou's work.
Go out and see it.
7/10
A Cure for Wellness
(2016)
An Excellent Mystery
1 March 2017
Warning: Spoilers
I'm going to cut right to the chase here: You NEED to see this film, and as soon as possible.
Right from the first moments the film grips you in its vice and never lets go. There's a mystery at work here, and I had a lot of fun trying to figure out what was going on as the film fed me small hints here and there before finally revealing all of its secrets near the end.
Now, the following sentence may contain mild spoilers, so read with caution: One aspect that I enjoyed was the fact that the film doesn't end when you would expect it to. Lesser films and lesser directors would have ended the film on a bleak note, leaving the protagonist for dead and abandoning the story. A Cure For Wellness abandons these annoying tropes and offers an extremely satisfying conclusion and wraps up all of its various threads in a neat little bow. This is a testament to the excellent writing on display.
There's not a whole lot I can say about the film's plot without giving away too much, but I can say that the plot is excellent and gripping. The story may seem slightly outlandish, but it's grounded by wonderful performances by actors Dane DeHaan, Mia Goth and Jason Isaacs.
It's also a real head trip at times. At times you may question whether you're witnessing a real film or just having a bizarre dream. But that's all part of the atmosphere and is definitely to the film's benefit.
To be perfectly honest, and with the exception of one odd scene whose existence wasn't properly explained to my liking (Hint:Masturbation), I can't find much to complain about here. The story is top notch. The cinematography is wonderful and helps inform the films tense atmosphere. The acting is spot on in every aspect. Director Gore Verbinski has tight control on reins, and the result is nothing less than a spectacular and original piece of film.
I cannot recommend this film highly enough.
10/10
Right from the first moments the film grips you in its vice and never lets go. There's a mystery at work here, and I had a lot of fun trying to figure out what was going on as the film fed me small hints here and there before finally revealing all of its secrets near the end.
Now, the following sentence may contain mild spoilers, so read with caution: One aspect that I enjoyed was the fact that the film doesn't end when you would expect it to. Lesser films and lesser directors would have ended the film on a bleak note, leaving the protagonist for dead and abandoning the story. A Cure For Wellness abandons these annoying tropes and offers an extremely satisfying conclusion and wraps up all of its various threads in a neat little bow. This is a testament to the excellent writing on display.
There's not a whole lot I can say about the film's plot without giving away too much, but I can say that the plot is excellent and gripping. The story may seem slightly outlandish, but it's grounded by wonderful performances by actors Dane DeHaan, Mia Goth and Jason Isaacs.
It's also a real head trip at times. At times you may question whether you're witnessing a real film or just having a bizarre dream. But that's all part of the atmosphere and is definitely to the film's benefit.
To be perfectly honest, and with the exception of one odd scene whose existence wasn't properly explained to my liking (Hint:Masturbation), I can't find much to complain about here. The story is top notch. The cinematography is wonderful and helps inform the films tense atmosphere. The acting is spot on in every aspect. Director Gore Verbinski has tight control on reins, and the result is nothing less than a spectacular and original piece of film.
I cannot recommend this film highly enough.
10/10
John Wick: Chapter 2
(2017)
Wow
12 February 2017
Warning: Spoilers
The first John Wick film was a modern action masterpiece. When I saw it in the theater, I was absolutely blown away. I loved it. Given my adoration for the film, I was a little bit worried when a sequel was announced.
If you, like me, had any reservations about the sequel not living up to the original, you can set those fears aside. John Wick Chapter 2 maintains all the exquisitely-choreographed action scenes and gripping story elements you could ever ask for.
Not that surprising, since director Chad Stahelski and writer Derek Kolstad both return to collaborate on the film.
(Possible Spoilers Ahead) Chapter 2 begins shortly after the events of the first film, with Wick tracking down his sexy Mustang (A plot hole I was concerned about after the events of John Wick). After that, everything kicks in to even higher gear. (End Spoilers)
The story is excellent. Without spoiling anything, I can say that it expands the mythology of the film's world to great effect, something that I found incredibly exciting as a fan. I can also safely say that the plot is much more interesting than I expected it to be.
The action scenes are also excellent. Said scenes are choreographed within an inch of their life and most of them are shot in single-take wide shots with very little editing which allows the audience to enjoy the action without being bombarded by constant edits and headache- inducing sound effects. I appreciate this quite a lot, as action bits in several other films over the last few years have suffered from these afflictions. This is a trend that John Wick ignores in favor of showing off the skill of the choreographers and stunt people.
(More possible spoilers) The last bit of the film is also quite gripping and manages to set up a third film without feeling ham-fisted or awkward in any way. If there is to be a sequel, I simply cannot wait. (End spoilers)
All in all, John Wick Chapter 2 is about as perfect as a sequel fans could hope for. If you liked the first, then the second will please you just as much, if not more, than the original.
Fans of John Wick and fans of action in general will be pleased.
10/10
If you, like me, had any reservations about the sequel not living up to the original, you can set those fears aside. John Wick Chapter 2 maintains all the exquisitely-choreographed action scenes and gripping story elements you could ever ask for.
Not that surprising, since director Chad Stahelski and writer Derek Kolstad both return to collaborate on the film.
(Possible Spoilers Ahead) Chapter 2 begins shortly after the events of the first film, with Wick tracking down his sexy Mustang (A plot hole I was concerned about after the events of John Wick). After that, everything kicks in to even higher gear. (End Spoilers)
The story is excellent. Without spoiling anything, I can say that it expands the mythology of the film's world to great effect, something that I found incredibly exciting as a fan. I can also safely say that the plot is much more interesting than I expected it to be.
The action scenes are also excellent. Said scenes are choreographed within an inch of their life and most of them are shot in single-take wide shots with very little editing which allows the audience to enjoy the action without being bombarded by constant edits and headache- inducing sound effects. I appreciate this quite a lot, as action bits in several other films over the last few years have suffered from these afflictions. This is a trend that John Wick ignores in favor of showing off the skill of the choreographers and stunt people.
(More possible spoilers) The last bit of the film is also quite gripping and manages to set up a third film without feeling ham-fisted or awkward in any way. If there is to be a sequel, I simply cannot wait. (End spoilers)
All in all, John Wick Chapter 2 is about as perfect as a sequel fans could hope for. If you liked the first, then the second will please you just as much, if not more, than the original.
Fans of John Wick and fans of action in general will be pleased.
10/10
Hooray!
28 January 2017
A triumphant, big-screen return for Yugi and friends.
This film is fun and exciting for those of us who grew up with the original anime, but new viewers won't be disappointed, either.
The duels themselves are very fun and exciting, and the wonderfully composed music strengthens them even further.
My only complaint is that the film felt a bit too long. For example, there were a couple of scenes that really didn't add anything to the film which could've easily been cut out.
Wonderful animation, a surprisingly good story and the usual rhetoric about the power of friendship make this one a winner. Even if you think you've outgrown this franchise, I still suggest seeing this one. I left the theater feeling energized and joyful.
Recommended.
8/10
This film is fun and exciting for those of us who grew up with the original anime, but new viewers won't be disappointed, either.
The duels themselves are very fun and exciting, and the wonderfully composed music strengthens them even further.
My only complaint is that the film felt a bit too long. For example, there were a couple of scenes that really didn't add anything to the film which could've easily been cut out.
Wonderful animation, a surprisingly good story and the usual rhetoric about the power of friendship make this one a winner. Even if you think you've outgrown this franchise, I still suggest seeing this one. I left the theater feeling energized and joyful.
Recommended.
8/10
31
(2016)
Yikes
28 January 2017
Warning: Spoilers
I admire Rob Zombie as both a musician and filmmaker.
I liked what he did with both of his additions to the Halloween franchise, and his last film, The Lords of Salem was a psychological head trip.
His latest film, 31, sounded like a lot of fun despite the semi-tired premise. Sadly, the results are only so-so.
The opening scene, mostly comprising a deranged monologue by villain Doom-Head, played with a fearsome malevolence by Richard Brake, is well-shot and offers the audience a lot of promise. Unfortunately, we're then introduced to the protagonists of our story, a group of traveling carnival workers. This rag tag group consists entirely of unlikable assholes. Zombies refusal to provide us with interesting or likable characters makes it almost impossible to care what happens to them in the ensuing bloodbath, thus lessening the scares and intensity.
Another quibble of mine is Zombies insistence on casting his wife in every one of his films. She's a good actress, but the nepotism at work distracts me and kind of takes me out of the film. Her performance is good though, so this is probably just a personal nitpick that won't bother anyone else.
There are moments of brief and entrancing intensity, such as the chainsaw clowns, but mostly the film is predictable, characters dying one by one until only one remains.
The writing isn't top-notch, which means that the fast-paced and frenetic action is really the only entertaining thing about the film.
All in all, I found the film disappointing. Zombie has proved that he can do better than this, and I hope his future films are more well put together than this.
5/10
I liked what he did with both of his additions to the Halloween franchise, and his last film, The Lords of Salem was a psychological head trip.
His latest film, 31, sounded like a lot of fun despite the semi-tired premise. Sadly, the results are only so-so.
The opening scene, mostly comprising a deranged monologue by villain Doom-Head, played with a fearsome malevolence by Richard Brake, is well-shot and offers the audience a lot of promise. Unfortunately, we're then introduced to the protagonists of our story, a group of traveling carnival workers. This rag tag group consists entirely of unlikable assholes. Zombies refusal to provide us with interesting or likable characters makes it almost impossible to care what happens to them in the ensuing bloodbath, thus lessening the scares and intensity.
Another quibble of mine is Zombies insistence on casting his wife in every one of his films. She's a good actress, but the nepotism at work distracts me and kind of takes me out of the film. Her performance is good though, so this is probably just a personal nitpick that won't bother anyone else.
There are moments of brief and entrancing intensity, such as the chainsaw clowns, but mostly the film is predictable, characters dying one by one until only one remains.
The writing isn't top-notch, which means that the fast-paced and frenetic action is really the only entertaining thing about the film.
All in all, I found the film disappointing. Zombie has proved that he can do better than this, and I hope his future films are more well put together than this.
5/10
Arrival
(II) (2016)
Yes
28 January 2017
Arrival, like almost every single other film Director Denis Villeneuve, is a masterpiece. An incredibly intelligent script from screenwriter Eric Heiserrer gifts audience members a great take on a less-than-imaginative premise that could've been bland if handled incorrectly.
Villeneuve is an astounding director, bringing us a tense and haunting atmosphere and squeezing captivating performances from actors Amy Adans and Jeremy Renner.
A great score and masterful cinematography help round out the film.
Renner said in an interview with Total Film that he believes Villeneuve to be a combination of Spielberg and Kubrick. I can't help but agree.
This was, without a doubt, my favorite film of 2016.
10/10
Villeneuve is an astounding director, bringing us a tense and haunting atmosphere and squeezing captivating performances from actors Amy Adans and Jeremy Renner.
A great score and masterful cinematography help round out the film.
Renner said in an interview with Total Film that he believes Villeneuve to be a combination of Spielberg and Kubrick. I can't help but agree.
This was, without a doubt, my favorite film of 2016.
10/10
The Bye Bye Man
(2017)
Yuck
28 January 2017
Warning: Spoilers
The Bye Bye Man is a master class in ineptitude.
Poor writing leaves us with under-developed characters whom it's impossible to care about, which waters down the already contrived and predictable "scares".
With the exception of one particular scene involving Carre-Anne Moss and an interrogation room, the acting is pretty awful, actually causing me to laugh out loud on several occasions.
And let's not forget about how bland and unoriginal this thing is, either. The Bye Bye Man himself is a guy in a hood and....that's it. Sometimes he'll point at one of the annoying characters. I'm almost insulted at the fact that director Stacy Title thinks that this will scare audience members.
I suppose it's not all bad, though. The film is at its best during the third act, when it goes into full-on thriller mode, and actually kind of works...until the credits roll and you realize how many lapses in logic and the sheer amount of plot holes that exist in this film.
I could probably go on a lot more about how terrible this was, but I think you get the point.
All I can say is, Don't see this film. Not even die-hard horror fans like myself will find anything to enjoy here.
2/10
Poor writing leaves us with under-developed characters whom it's impossible to care about, which waters down the already contrived and predictable "scares".
With the exception of one particular scene involving Carre-Anne Moss and an interrogation room, the acting is pretty awful, actually causing me to laugh out loud on several occasions.
And let's not forget about how bland and unoriginal this thing is, either. The Bye Bye Man himself is a guy in a hood and....that's it. Sometimes he'll point at one of the annoying characters. I'm almost insulted at the fact that director Stacy Title thinks that this will scare audience members.
I suppose it's not all bad, though. The film is at its best during the third act, when it goes into full-on thriller mode, and actually kind of works...until the credits roll and you realize how many lapses in logic and the sheer amount of plot holes that exist in this film.
I could probably go on a lot more about how terrible this was, but I think you get the point.
All I can say is, Don't see this film. Not even die-hard horror fans like myself will find anything to enjoy here.
2/10
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