rumi_li Reviews

Johns (1996)

A Raw and Emotional Tragedy

[7/10 · 18 April 2024]

"Johns" centers around a hustler named John (David Arquette) and the young hustler he took under his wing Donner (Lukas Haas).

Though "Johns" may seem cliche and unassuming on the outside, I can assure you that this film is anything but cliche. In fact, I'd argue that "Johns" is a highly raw and emotional film that tackles the world of hustling almost perfectly, compared many of the other hustler films (Pretty Women, My Own Private Idaho, etc) that more or less glorify the act of hustling, rather than show the dark consequences that come with the practice.

I would highly recommend checking out this film! It is definitely one of David Arquette best roles to date!

DogMan (2023)

Premise Is Weak, But It's Not Terrible

[5/10 · 1 April 2024]

"Dogman" tells the story of a man named Douglas, who was raised by dogs due to his highly neglectful home life. Because of this he grows up not trusting humans, and only the dogs who saved him.

Ultimately, this is a bit of a weak storyline, which is why I gave the film a rather low rating of 5/10. There's just not enough engaging substance there for it to be entertaining. The most entertaining part of this film is the Drag that Douglas is often seen wearing, as it's one of his hobbies. To be someone else.

On the plus side, I did rather enjoy the storyline of JoJo T Gibbs's character. Her performance carried a lot of this film, aside from Caleb Landry Jones's of course.

Overall, the film is mid at best. I had high hopes and expectations going into this film, as Luc Besson is a rather notable director, only to be let down by the rather unsatisfying purpose it holds. There's only so much you can say about a man obsessed with dogs. It would have been better as a short film.

The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin: A Legend Is Born (Sort Of) (2024) Season 1, Episode 1

First Impressions Are Everything...

[3/10 · 1 April 2024]

I had gotten many advertisements for this Series before finally watching it, and I had heard that it was going to be a "funny British Comedy" which I usually like. But, this first episode did not impress me.

It's far too self aware, to the point that the stakes don't even feel like stakes, and ultimately nothing even matters. There IS a such thing is being too self-aware and this episode definitely exceeds that limit. It's trying so hard to be quirky and originally, but it ultimately falls flat as there is seemingly no characters to root for as they're all rather plain and boring behind the "comedic" facade.

Overall, I had somewhat high expectations going into it, but it's just a cheap attempt at a tv show. Don't waste your time.

Life Rendered (2022)

Promised So Much, Failed to Deliver.

[5/10 · 1 April 2024]

If you're thinking of watching this short film for its Queer themes and characters, don't waste your time because it's barely there and that's exactly the problem with this short film.

The film promised so much, yet failed to deliver. Lacking any real substance or purpose. Though the futuristic idea sounds intriguing on paper, after watching the film you'll feel barley anything when it's over.

There is a noticeable lack of character exploration, the pacing is far too fast in important areas, and way too slow in the weaker areas, and the overall message is unclear. Be proud of who you are? Be proud, but hide it? Forget that important part of you - What is it?!

What makes me angry the most, however, is how little time is spent actually exploring Mark's relationship with his boyfriend, as 10 minutes in they simply break up, giving us seemingly no reason to care as we don't know anything about his boyfriend. Just that he is obviously oppressing his true feelings, but that's not enough character development for us, as an audience, to care.

Overall, it could've been great, but I think the writing department could've done a bit better when dissecting these characters. The only character they really directed well was the Father's. Though that's not saying much since it wasn't his story, but Marks.

The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)

A Film That Leaves A Long Lasting Impression

[7/10 · 25 February 2024]

"The Talented Mr. Ripley" is exactly what a phycological thriller should be!

The film is an about a man named Tom Ripley (Matt Damon) who is a simple Piano tuner at the beginning of the film, but finds this life to be uneventful. He hears about an opportunity to gain riches by becoming friends with an entitled rich boy named Dickie Greenleaf (Jude Law). Which he succeeds in, at least for a little while. That is until Tom murders Dickie after an altercation, thus having to forge Dickie's identity to cover up the murder.

"The Talented Mr. Ripley" is an extremely suspenseful and off-putting film, that leaves you routing for the villain in the end, which is a rather unusual, but morally enticing, twist.

I would highly recommend watching this movie! One of my favorite thriller films!

Crazy Fun Park (2023– )

Could Have Been Better...

[5/10 · 27 November 2023]

Crazy Fun Park is clearly an expansion on (what i would call) "The Boys Trilogy" that Nicholas Verso has created.

The trilogy consists of The Last Time I Saw Richard (2015), Boys In The Trees (2016) and Crazy Fun Park (2023).

Now, if you've seen any of Verso's other films, then you'd know that he really likes the "Lost Boys" style of writing and directing. And as successful as The Last Time I Saw Richard (2015) and Boys In The Trees were (2016), Crazy Fun Park just does not live up to the cult following reputation of those other films.

The acting is mediocre at best, the plot and direction is bland (in comparison to Verso's other projects in this trilogy) and the show itself is way too goofy and comedic. It feels like it's not taking itself seriously enough, which is a real shame, considering the things that resonated with me most about the "The Boys Trilogy" were the dark undertones and atmosphere. Those undertones really set the tone for these films and made them engaging and entertaining to watch. But, this series seemingly scrapped that idea all together and decided to use cheap comedic route to make up for the lack of real any substance.

Moral of the story, all good things must come to an end. But, It was definitely fun while it lasted, and I highly suggest checking out the other films in "The Boys trilogy" if you haven't already!

Gabriel (I) (2014)

Under-appreciated and Overlooked

[9/10 · 4 September 2023]

'Gabriel' tells the story of a boy looking for love, which I'm sure we've all felt before. But this boy is broken and lost. He feels he's been abandoned by those he trusted most. He feels different, and that the only thing that can fix him is marrying his childhood friend, Alice.

His mother and his older brother Matt, attempt to help Gabe, attempt to fix him, but nothing they do seems to work. They've tried everything, from mental institutions to medications, but all Gabe wants is to feel "normal".

Gabriel is a sad tale of love and depression, but Lou Howe wrote this narrative with passion and enthusiasm and it pays off!

This is absolutely one of if not my favorite films of all time! Out of everything I have ever seen this one has stuck with me the longest. And I think that it will stick with anyone who watches it.

It's the rawness, it's the relatability, it's the feeling Lou Howe gave to this story and it's a feeling I think we've all felt before. That of unrequited love, uncertainty, and a fear of the future.

Rory Culkin gave an excellent performance as Gabriel (as most people have stated). But I feel someone who often gets overlooked is his mother (played by Deirdre O'Connell)

O'Connell gave a truly raw and honest performance. She truly played the role of a mother who's on the verge of breaking, but has to stay strong for her child out of pure love and support perfectly! I can't think of anyone else who could have played Gabe's mother as well as Deirdre O'Connell!

And even though 'Gabriel' is a small indie film, I think that those who have seen it, and those who are willing to see it, can all take something away from this story.

I believe everyone should watch this film, at least once in their life.

Whipped (II) (2019)

Just Another Short Film

[3/10 · 15 June 2023]

The only reason i bothered to rate this short film at all is because of it's beautiful cinematography (and shout out to the costume and makeup department) That's the only reason i didn't give it a lower rating.

'Whipped' is an uninspiring and unintelligible short film that feels overly prerogative and nosy for no apparent reason. And because of this, the plot itself feels misguided and demeaning.

'Whipped' is definitely a slow burn short film, with the camerawork really being the only purpose this film has to offer in terms of being enjoyable or entertaining. It's clearly that this short film wanted to say and commentate on our society, but ultimately that became it's downfall.

Overall, not very impressive.

Lymelife (2008)

Painfully Plain & Average

[4/10 · 1 June 2023]

Lymelife is a mediocre and average film that tells the story of a struggling teenage boy named Scott, and his slowly collapsing family life.

Lymelife is quite similar to that of 'The Architect', in the sense that the father in this movie (played by Alec Baldwin) is an architect who is too focused on making life perfect when it doesn't need to be.

Now, was it a bad film? No. But it wasn't great either. And this film just encourages my ever growing hate for Alec Baldwin characters.

The best part of the entire film was probably the younger brother/older brother dynamic between (real life) brothers Jimmy (Kieran Culkin) and Scott (Rory Culkin). And I would definitely love to see them act together again in the future!

As for Emma Roberts, she played the same character she almost always plays. An unlikable and over confident teenager who thinks the world revolves around her. And who is also the unsuspecting love interest of Scott, which was ultimately pointless.

The ending was lackluster and overall Lymelife is not really a movie worth watching.

Succession (2018–2023)

The Greatest TV Show of all Time!

[10/10 · 29 May 2023]

Succession may very well be one of the greatest tv shows of all time! (and I am not exaggerating!)

It's a premise that tells a story as old as time. That of power, control and dynasty. Yet, Succession takes that idea and puts it into a modern day narrative, subjectively changing the story and shedding a completely new light on the classic tale.

It's dark, evil and witty, but it has its moments of warmth and light.

Ultimately Succession is a tragedy, as the writers have stated, and it was always intended to be a tragedy. Sad and gloomy but carrying enough essence to tell such a raw and complex tale in a format that is somewhat controversial. The classic shaky camera gimmick mix with the most realistic and dramatic script you'll ever hear, gives a sense of pride and purpose. And when It's all over it leaves you with the question "what do I do now?"

But at the end of the day Succession started as a simplistic slice of life story, and ended all the same. Because life is unpredictable and doesn't always end the way you planned it.

If you haven't garnered up the urge to watch Succession, I highly recommend you try. Yes, it can be a little bit slow durning the first 2 seasons, but you really learn to love and become emotionally invested in all of the characters because of it. And once you become fully invested in the show, it will easily become one of the best TV experiences yet!

Succession is the only TV show I will ever rate 10/10. Would highly recommended!

Go Fish (2001)

Cute and Fun!

[7/10 · 19 May 2023]

First and foremost, I just wanted to say that this show was (and still is) underrated and underappreciated.

This show is like the indie version of 'Boy Meets World (which is fitting considering Will Fridle is in this show too) Or '5th Rock From The Sun', and those types of Tv Shows were the best!

Now, is it perfect? Definitely not. Were there some outdated ideologies and uninteresting subplots? Absolutely. But it was still a fun and cute show, nonetheless.

And as (basically) Kieran Culkin's debut into the acting scene, he did a pretty great job!

So, if you're looking for some lighthearted and fun content to watch, you should definitely check it out and give it a shot.

Swarm: Stung (2023) Season 1, Episode 1

Definitely Not For Everyone

[5/10 · 21 March 2023]

Don't get me wrong, Ep. 1 of "Swarm" was definitely a well written, well directed and well thought out episode

But, this episode often felt just a tad bit too rushed in some areas. The real problem I have with shows like "Swarm" in general is the pure lack of filter they tend to possess (which I know a lot of people love, hence why shows like this usually do so well)

Now, I'm no stranger to the R rated and adult content side of Tv and film, it's virtually impossible to ignore and some of it really is that great! (I.e Shameless, Succession, etc.)

But, more often than not, this type of genre tends to fall flat for me. I guess I've just never understood the importance of graphic sex scenes and physical assault in films. Why relive someone else's trauma?

But, if you do like that sort of stuff and are willing to give it a try, it's subjectively a pretty good episode, for the most part.

And on the plus side, it does have probably the most realistic murder scene I've ever seen! (except for the cake eating part of it)

SpongeBob SquarePants (1999– )

The Best Kids Show...Of It's Time

[8/10 · 11 November 2022]

Firstly, I cannot deny the fact that the first 4 seasons of SpongeBob SquarePants where elite masterpieces, never to be recreated again (Even though Nickelodeon themselves and many others have tried to imitate SpongeBob's initial success)

Sadly though, SpongeBob has seemingly been on the decline every since season 6, and hasn't looked back. But those first 4 seasons will never be forgotten.

What SpongeBob started out as can never be redone, and that is sad. But thanks to streaming platforms, the children of this generation will be able to enjoy this little Sponge through all his highs and lows, and that is special.

I recommend this to anyone who is looking to laugh, cry, and overall just have a fun time with no worries left to ponder.

Prisoners (2013)

Exactly What Thriller Movie Should Be!

[9/10 · 11 September 2022]

This film absolutely blew me away!

It has so many hidden ties, meanings, and interpretations to it. (But I won't get into that lore here)

The plot is very intriguing and realistic! And I absolutely love how neatly everything ends up falling into place, and how we (the audience) see it at the same pace as Loki, who is an amazing detective. Gotta be one of my favorite Jake Gyllenhaal roles.

It captures a true horror aspect that I honestly wasn't prepared for. I was constantly clenching my my seat in suspense and anticipation, and could hardly breathe through the climax of the film.

This film right here, IS thriller at its finest.

Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal and Paul Dano's performances were all outstanding! I can see why it's a critically acclaimed film. Though, Jake Gyllenhaal definitely deserves more recognition for this fantastic role!

And poor Alex Jones deserved so much more. He had been tortured and starved for days on end. Ahh, I felt so bad for him. I wish they would have shown a proper happy ending for Alex, and not just a quick newspaper flash.

Other than that, Watch it if you haven't. It is definitely worth the watch!

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

A Perfect Sequel

[8/10 · 27 August 2022]

I was skeptical at first, but now, after watching it, I can confidently say I absolutely loved this film!

I love how they brought back old characters, as well as introducing new ones.

And I absolutely love the father figure dynamic with Maverick and Rooster. The actor who played Rooster did an exquisite job! Rooster is exactly what Maverick needed to finally let go of his past and to forgive himself.

Though, as amazing of a film I think it is. The romance between Maverick and Penny was rather unnecessary to say the least. We know barely anything about their past together, and it kinda just makes no sense. I would have preferred if those romance scenes were cut out all together, since it quite literally did nothing to progress the story forward.

But other than that. Amazing film, 8/10!

Would recommend if you haven't seen it already :)

Get Out (I) (2017)

Now, This Is True Horror!

[9/10 · 15 July 2022]

This film takes horror, and sets it in the modern day extremely well. The idea that someone out there hates you for simply existing is scary in itself, but to expand upon that, to say that someone who hates you plans to kill you just because of their own self righteousness is downright horrifying!

The acting is amazing! And I was surprised at how natural and genuine the chemistry between the characters is!

Most horror movies tend to fall flat for me, since they tend to just be made for a cheap scare. But this is a different kind of horror. A more plausible kind of horror, and I love it!

Definitely a great watch!

Jack and Dean of All Trades (2016–2018)

An Adorably Cute and Funny Miniseries

[7/10 · 15 July 2022]

This series was super fun to binge. The acting is great, and the comedy never gets old. Finally, the friendship between Jack and Dean is just so heartwarming and pure.

Would recommend if you're looking for something light and silly to binge.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

The Best War Movie Ever!

[10/10 · 15 July 2022]

This film is absolutely horrifying and worth it.

It shows the grim and depressing reality that comes with fighting in a war, and war in general. Watching the people you love die right in front of you, and all for what? For glory? For power?

This is an absolutely amazing film, with superb acting, stunning set designs and camera work. And though there isn't much of it, the music is beautiful and haunting when it's there.

You can just tell that everyone who worked on this film really put their heart and soul into it, and it shows!

It really makes you wonder why we even have wars in the first place. No one should ever go through that much pain. It's simply inhuman.

Shameless (2011–2021)

Great show, with memorable characters who stay with you

[9/10 · 15 July 2022]

Shameless is an overall pretty great show. But I think it really only works if you watched it when it was still ongoing.

One of the reasons why I loved it so much (beside the absolutely fantastic acting), is the characters.

You got to watch all these characters grow and develop as people. Every character has a real depth to them, which is hard to come by. You got to see them through all the highs and lows with no sugarcoating to it. You got to see just raw and genuine emotion, which I think is quite hard to find.

I have yet to find another tv show that has invested me as much as Shameless has. And I think that, that is why it's so special.

Joker (I) (2019)

Exactly What the Joker Ordered!

[8/10 · 15 July 2022]

This movie is truly and utterly stunning! The acting by Joaquin phoenix is superb, and the plot really enhances this version of The Joker.

The Joker is a complex and complicated character, and has had many forms. But this is by far my favorite reenactment of the joker. It gives him the depth he so desperately needed, and it did it perfectly.

I don't think there is anything I would change about this film.

Definitely watch it, if you haven't :)

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)

mediocre and lackluster, Rather disappointing

[6/10 · 15 July 2022]

First off, when I heard that Kevin Feige was set to direct it and adding a horror element to it, I was expecting more than just some cheap and lousy jump scares from time to time.

I was highly disappointed by the lack of true horror scenes in this film. Sure, some scenes were kinda of scary, I guess. And sure it's not technically a horror movie, but I wanted to get scared at least once. Instead, I felt nothing for the entirety of of the movie, practically staring at my phone waiting for it to finally end.

Also, Wanda's character makes no sense at all and is completely inconsistent. She straight up massacres a bunch of people, but can't kill Doctor Stranger or America Chavez? Really? You don't just bounce back from killing a bunch of innocent people like that.

In conclusion, It's an average marvel movie, at best, with no real steaks at hand.