Why is horror still made of characters who do foolish things... For once I would like to see the actions that normal people would do under these circumstances, but maybe it was the actors who from the moment they observed the mother during that kitchen scene did not have me feeling they were alarmed. It felt more like they were seeing the possession of the mother as just an innocent curiosity. It is the same all thoughout. I did not feel any fear, and many times the acting left much to be desired from the supporting cast as well. It almost felt like a home made horror but with more money for production. The lead actress did ok, but the rest of the cast did little to hold up the fear factor.
Reviews
15 Reviews
Outlander
(2014– )
Good adaption for a gripping, wild story
5 May 2023
I will keep it short: this is my second time watching to finish the last seasonsand I am enjoying it. It does well bringing the novel to life, so I highly recommend this!
I will keep it short: this is my second time watching to finish the last seasonsand I am enjoying it. It does well bringing the novel to life, so I highly recommend this!
I will keep it short: this is my second time watching to finish the last seasonsand I am enjoying it. It does well bringing the novel to life, so I highly recommend this!
I will keep it short: this is my second time watching to finish the last seasonsand I am enjoying it. It does well bringing the novel to life, so I highly recommend this!
I will keep it short: this is my second time watching to finish the last seasonsand I am enjoying it. It does well bringing the novel to life, so I highly recommend this!
I will keep it short: this is my second time watching to finish the last seasonsand I am enjoying it. It does well bringing the novel to life, so I highly recommend this!
I will keep it short: this is my second time watching to finish the last seasonsand I am enjoying it. It does well bringing the novel to life, so I highly recommend this!
The Passion of the Christ
(2004)
A film you can never forget!
3 April 2023
The first time I ever learned about this film was when it was shown at my mothers workplace just before Easter holiday. I was a kid, wanted to watch it but was denied and for good reason because Gibson does not spare sensitive eyes from the cruelty given to those who face crucifixion. Now some people call it simply "gore-porn" but have no issue praising war movies that show graphic details, other historical shows or even modern ones with a similar level of blood; however, somehow the brutal punishment favored by the Romans historically is just too much. Ok, double standards if I have ever seen it, but let us move on.
Regardless of whether viewers are Christians or not, I think it goes without saying that this is a very impactful retelling of the final hours of Jesus. All the actors were very well chosen, and really put themselves in the shoes of the persons who are described in the Bible even though it does take creative liberties. From the heartbreak of Mary seeing her beloved son dying before her eyes, the helplessness of the disciples, the spiritual and mental torment of Judas after his kiss of betrayal, the lurking and suffocating ever-present shadow of Satan and how it made Jesus feel lonely and burdened in his final hours---this film had it ALL, and I have to give Gibson a thumbs up for how well it all came together. Everything felt very authentic down to their speech, and it is no wonder this film is the highest grossing of its kind.
One watch is all you need to forever remember, and although it only gives brief flashbacks into the ministry of Jesus before these final hours, those moments revealed nicely tie into the narrative that it accompanies. I will be watching it again today in memory of Johns actor who died of cancer recently, because he definitely did a great job representing the disciple Jesus loved. This is a very deep film that will continue to live through the decades.
Regardless of whether viewers are Christians or not, I think it goes without saying that this is a very impactful retelling of the final hours of Jesus. All the actors were very well chosen, and really put themselves in the shoes of the persons who are described in the Bible even though it does take creative liberties. From the heartbreak of Mary seeing her beloved son dying before her eyes, the helplessness of the disciples, the spiritual and mental torment of Judas after his kiss of betrayal, the lurking and suffocating ever-present shadow of Satan and how it made Jesus feel lonely and burdened in his final hours---this film had it ALL, and I have to give Gibson a thumbs up for how well it all came together. Everything felt very authentic down to their speech, and it is no wonder this film is the highest grossing of its kind.
One watch is all you need to forever remember, and although it only gives brief flashbacks into the ministry of Jesus before these final hours, those moments revealed nicely tie into the narrative that it accompanies. I will be watching it again today in memory of Johns actor who died of cancer recently, because he definitely did a great job representing the disciple Jesus loved. This is a very deep film that will continue to live through the decades.
Painted Skin
(2008)
Easy viewing
29 January 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This is the second time that I have watched this movie over five years, and this time I liked it just the same. Yes the cgi and editing is not so great by today's standard, but I enjoyed the performances of the actors, especially the leads. Chen Kun, Xiao Wei and Zhou Xun all gave subtle, good performances. Chen Kun has chemistry with both actresses, and I saw how he liked Xiao Wei despite growing cautious of her and his dreams, and how he reconciled it with the dedication he had for his wife even when bewitched. Wang Sheng's confession just before dying may be strange yet understandable: a man can develop attraction to another woman which is fleeting, but he would rather die than live without his wife. That section after Wei is poisoned was the highlight of the film, just very nice to watch.
All in all, I liked this film, so it is a 7 for me.
All in all, I liked this film, so it is a 7 for me.
Avatar: The Way of Water
(2022)
The second half saves this movie
16 December 2022
This 3 hour long movie has the entire water arc to thank for being its saving grace---especially the intense climax and tragic yet beautiful ending (if my funeral ain't like that, I'm not coming). It was able to have an emotional impact on me despite the fact that I was beginning to doubt it would during the first half hour or so. Yes it was the slower parts, but I like slow movies as long as it keeps me invested with great dialogue, and that leads me to two main things I didn't like about this film.
First, it felt like I was watching a game... so a main problem is the CGI being... effectively equivalent in quality to it's 2009 release. That was a HUGE letdown for me when I'm also seeing games with a much lower budget producing CGI that looks so much more real. There is no reason for this mid result after 13 years. It's unacceptable in 2022. Yes it was very beautiful, but I expect that and more from games not major movies like this one. There were also many times when the dialogue could be much stronger for the slower sections. I'm hearing lines that need to be put to death. With this world-building and characters, Hollywood needs to be more creative. Aside from that, the actors did well and held their own. It was a nice movie with heavy emotional moments that fell just short of its greater potential.
It get's a 7.5/10 from me!
First, it felt like I was watching a game... so a main problem is the CGI being... effectively equivalent in quality to it's 2009 release. That was a HUGE letdown for me when I'm also seeing games with a much lower budget producing CGI that looks so much more real. There is no reason for this mid result after 13 years. It's unacceptable in 2022. Yes it was very beautiful, but I expect that and more from games not major movies like this one. There were also many times when the dialogue could be much stronger for the slower sections. I'm hearing lines that need to be put to death. With this world-building and characters, Hollywood needs to be more creative. Aside from that, the actors did well and held their own. It was a nice movie with heavy emotional moments that fell just short of its greater potential.
It get's a 7.5/10 from me!
The House
(III) (2022)
Just rating the first story
15 December 2022
So what led me to click was the style, being stop motion but instead of clay it is done with needle felting, and the trailer for part one. It is a simple masterpiece where the atmosphere, music and story unfolds in a way that kept me engaged. The family of four and the changes their new house causes with the parents while little Mabel has to look out for her sweet baby sister Isobel had me heavily invested. It does end tragically, and my heart ached for them. I was left wanting more of their story, so if Netflix made a little movie for these two sweet children and their strange encounter with the mysterious architect who ruined their lives with due justice being served, I'm here for it.
As for the other segments, I didn't watch because I found the change in era plus going from humans to animals too distracting. Judging from the other reviews, they weren't living up to the first one too. The opening story is the diamond of this movie. I want only the tale of Mabel and baby Isobel (her little responses are so cute!) They get my 8/10.
As for the other segments, I didn't watch because I found the change in era plus going from humans to animals too distracting. Judging from the other reviews, they weren't living up to the first one too. The opening story is the diamond of this movie. I want only the tale of Mabel and baby Isobel (her little responses are so cute!) They get my 8/10.
Maximilian
(2017– )
Great cast but the script is lacking
30 November 2022
The most prominent feeling I'm left with after watching this show, is that the screenwriters really rushed through it. There I was invested in the story of Mary, Maximilian, friends and foes at the start. The pace was going well enough, but especially after they get married plot-lines aren't fleshed out enough to continue and increase the impact of events that should be feeding my interest and emotions. Such a tragic thing too as the cast was good, but very underused because the script is half baked. What should have been two seasons at least was wrapped in just six episodes that end up being mostly forgetable when it had so much more potential.
On a positive note, I must commend the costumes. They are just fantastic, and I loved to see the court garments. The actresses for Mary and her step mother are beautiful and I loved seeing them on screen. Maximilian's actor is also wonderful. The casting was well done, and the sets and scenes all felt authentic. They did well with the material they got, I just wish the story had more meat. It would have been a more impactful series.
On a positive note, I must commend the costumes. They are just fantastic, and I loved to see the court garments. The actresses for Mary and her step mother are beautiful and I loved seeing them on screen. Maximilian's actor is also wonderful. The casting was well done, and the sets and scenes all felt authentic. They did well with the material they got, I just wish the story had more meat. It would have been a more impactful series.
The Wonder
(I) (2022)
A solid, quiet story
21 November 2022
As it goes, films which have a quite yet mysterious atmosphere is my cup of tea, so from the time I first saw the trailer I knew I would like this movie. The story unfolded in a way that never had me checking the time, and that's a testament to the brilliant, natural acting from everyone in the cast and an effective script. The two main actresses, who had the most screen time, had great chemistry and watching their scenes was a pleasure. Of course, I hope to see more of Flourence and Anna's young actress looks well on her way to becoming a notable actress if she wants.
This story explores how religion, despite its virtues an be made into something dangerous. Poor Anna feels compelled to starve to save a brother she loves because of the belief that he will burn forever in hell, even though it isn't Biblical and fasting should never be undertaken under such unhealthy conditions. Even Jesus ate, the apostles never starved themselves, and salvation shouldn't cause so much pain; but it was interesting to see how a circumstance like this might have happened during this period. I'm glad this story has a good resolution. The scenes where the audience is spoken to directly with the movie's start and end didn't bother me, but it didn't add much and could be left out. In the end, this is a solid movie. Nothing too outstanding, but a nice watch.
This story explores how religion, despite its virtues an be made into something dangerous. Poor Anna feels compelled to starve to save a brother she loves because of the belief that he will burn forever in hell, even though it isn't Biblical and fasting should never be undertaken under such unhealthy conditions. Even Jesus ate, the apostles never starved themselves, and salvation shouldn't cause so much pain; but it was interesting to see how a circumstance like this might have happened during this period. I'm glad this story has a good resolution. The scenes where the audience is spoken to directly with the movie's start and end didn't bother me, but it didn't add much and could be left out. In the end, this is a solid movie. Nothing too outstanding, but a nice watch.
The Man from Nowhere
(2010)
Won Bin, please come back!
25 September 2022
I'm writing this review with a face drenched in tears of joy and sadness. This movie is a masterpiece, and the end is just beautiful! The cast did so well, and the sweet relationship between an innocent child and a man who lost it all yet raised hell on earth for her when she was in the depths of danger squeezed out every ounce of tears I didn't know I had left in me.
I can't begin to describe just how flawless this movie is: the characters were real, the storyline had depth and passion, there was great action, it explored so many things wrong with the world and despite that, the beauty of fatherly love even for a neighbour's child just shone through.
Won Bin, the main actor, hasn't been active on screen for over a decade now because of the pressure he feels from having fleshed out such great characters on screen, but I hope one day he comes back. He is such a great actor; a reputation well deserved!
I can't begin to describe just how flawless this movie is: the characters were real, the storyline had depth and passion, there was great action, it explored so many things wrong with the world and despite that, the beauty of fatherly love even for a neighbour's child just shone through.
Won Bin, the main actor, hasn't been active on screen for over a decade now because of the pressure he feels from having fleshed out such great characters on screen, but I hope one day he comes back. He is such a great actor; a reputation well deserved!
House of the Dragon
(2022– )
What is this!
25 August 2022
A friend enjoying this new series convinced me to watch it even though I honestly was not drawn in by the trailers (plus the dragons did not look magnificent to me).
All I have to say is that I started watching, and my jaw dropped when it started with a narration. Red flag #1, not that there is no place for it but this one with the opening sequence was just not up to the standard of GoT's. Red flag #2, the actors did not grab my attention. None of them came alive on screen. None felt like the characters they played like the original GoT cast. Red flag #3 was when I stopped half-way through and watched GoT itself. The opening episode of that is FAR ahead of this one. The actors did so well, it still hurts how the show ended but one thing is they made you care and were great from the start. The suspense during the first sequence gets me everytime! This first episode did not make me want to see more.
All I have to say is that I started watching, and my jaw dropped when it started with a narration. Red flag #1, not that there is no place for it but this one with the opening sequence was just not up to the standard of GoT's. Red flag #2, the actors did not grab my attention. None of them came alive on screen. None felt like the characters they played like the original GoT cast. Red flag #3 was when I stopped half-way through and watched GoT itself. The opening episode of that is FAR ahead of this one. The actors did so well, it still hurts how the show ended but one thing is they made you care and were great from the start. The suspense during the first sequence gets me everytime! This first episode did not make me want to see more.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
(2017–2023)
A word on Season 4
19 August 2022
After seeing the great reviews for the first seasons and the negattive ones for the 4th, I decided to give this show a try expecting to see a bright start and dull lastest season. The result? I love season 4, just as much as season 1.
I understand some may not like the low and slow periods explored this time, but that's part of her career. All great talents experience moments where things slow down and Midge even developes a mindset that does more harm than good, but that last scene just sets her up for greater things. It is so inspiring! In addition, there are many things which are changing in her family and for Susie. This has held my attention and any chance I got, I watched Mrs. Maisel. This show has made me laugh and especially cry recently. Can't wait for season 5!
I understand some may not like the low and slow periods explored this time, but that's part of her career. All great talents experience moments where things slow down and Midge even developes a mindset that does more harm than good, but that last scene just sets her up for greater things. It is so inspiring! In addition, there are many things which are changing in her family and for Susie. This has held my attention and any chance I got, I watched Mrs. Maisel. This show has made me laugh and especially cry recently. Can't wait for season 5!
Gerald's Game
(2017)
Where Gugino goes, I go!
19 August 2022
I've developed a love for Gugino ever since watching "The Haunting of Hill House," and so her works have become an interest of mine. Never read King's work, but decided to watch because the premise interested me as well. I was not disappointed of course!
With a majority of the plot focused on her handcuffed to a bed, another actress would have made this a bore and shallow experience but Gugino made me feel fear, terror, vulnerability, everything. The cast was well chosen and the story unfolded in an attractive way with moments where I did cover the screen! The ending brought closure and was good. I guess I also have a thing for the director. Solid 8/10!
With a majority of the plot focused on her handcuffed to a bed, another actress would have made this a bore and shallow experience but Gugino made me feel fear, terror, vulnerability, everything. The cast was well chosen and the story unfolded in an attractive way with moments where I did cover the screen! The ending brought closure and was good. I guess I also have a thing for the director. Solid 8/10!
Vera Drake
(2004)
An interesting perspective into 1950's London
23 July 2022
After watching the first season of "Call the Midwife," I've made it a point to put more British shows and movies on my radar especially those about life in decades past. This movie has a quite atmosphere, but the topic that drives the plot is still so relevant. No matter what your stance may be on abortion, it was interesting to see how Vera Drake's kind heart ended up putting her on the wrong side of the law and ruined the Christmas of her beautiful family (although Frank could have chosen a better wife).
The production was grounded and excellent. I liked every aspect, and the actors did a wonderful job of making their characters feel so real. There were times when I smiled and others where my vision went blurry. "Vera Drake" is worth a watch!
The production was grounded and excellent. I liked every aspect, and the actors did a wonderful job of making their characters feel so real. There were times when I smiled and others where my vision went blurry. "Vera Drake" is worth a watch!
The Wind Blows from Longxi
(2022)
A good, dark spy historical!
22 July 2022
What can I say? This drama gave me the gravity I needed to see in a production from China. I haven't seen anything like it: the actors, the narrative, the ending and everything between! I haven't been able to move on. Chen Kun and Bai Yu did a great job as leads, and the supporting cast is just as good. There are also several sword fights which had me at the edge of my seat (I kneel before Chen Gong and a certain cult leader. It was absolutely gripping!)
Based on the Three Kingdoms era of ancient China, there is a lot of information coming at viewers at the beginning but hang in there. This is a show that is filled with schemes and planning so there's much dialogue in dim rooms, but it's the details that count to make this incredible. No scene is to be skipped friends. None. I've watched it at least four times already and I get something new everytime.
It's a solid 8/10 stars from me!
Based on the Three Kingdoms era of ancient China, there is a lot of information coming at viewers at the beginning but hang in there. This is a show that is filled with schemes and planning so there's much dialogue in dim rooms, but it's the details that count to make this incredible. No scene is to be skipped friends. None. I've watched it at least four times already and I get something new everytime.
It's a solid 8/10 stars from me!
Prison Break
(2005–2017)
Great until near the end of Season 2...
22 July 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Prison Break is fascinating to watch in season 1 because it has everything: great actors, great pace, great tension, great plot. It kept me hooked from the very start and I had to keep watching into the early hours of the morning. 10/10
Season 2 is interesting at first, yet near the end I found myself getting frustrated when the show started to make problems for the characters that could be avoided especially after they land in Panama. It started to feel...forced, and now at the second to last episode I don't fell compelled to finish it and move on to season 3 which is a shame. I care about the characters yet at the same time, they only feel like characters now. I agree with the others who say it should have ended with season 2. C- Note basically gets his happy ending which is great and the other plot points should have ended sooner than later. 7.5/10
All in all, it was fun while it lasted. I'm still glad I found it though.
Season 2 is interesting at first, yet near the end I found myself getting frustrated when the show started to make problems for the characters that could be avoided especially after they land in Panama. It started to feel...forced, and now at the second to last episode I don't fell compelled to finish it and move on to season 3 which is a shame. I care about the characters yet at the same time, they only feel like characters now. I agree with the others who say it should have ended with season 2. C- Note basically gets his happy ending which is great and the other plot points should have ended sooner than later. 7.5/10
All in all, it was fun while it lasted. I'm still glad I found it though.
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