Ryu_2 Reviews

The Purge: Anarchy (2014)

Pretty Good Actually

[8/10 · 18 July 2014]

When I first heard of this film, I had no intention of seeing it at all. The concept -- a night in which nearly all crime is legal -- is attractive and repelling at the same time. And the annoying use of "America the Beautiful" in the promos makes the whole thing seem pretentious and preachy.

Anyway, curiosity got the better of me, and I checked it out. I have to say that I'm glad I did. The film presents a decently told story, sympathetic characters, and, yes, a pretty unsettling look at what things would probably be like if this were to actually happen. But it's not all about chaos. As in real life, you're reminded that the world can be a pretty dark place, but there's a good deal of decency in human nature as well.

It must be said that all of the actors do a great job. For me, the most touching part of the film was the growing relationship between Sergeant, Eva, and Eva's daughter Cali. This trio forms an unexpected familial bond throughout, and you truly care about them as the tale progresses. Overall, I have to commend creator James DeMonaco for crafting a pretty solid and memorable movie.

Forever 16 (2013 TV Movie)

Solid Effort

[7/10 · 16 September 2013]

'Forever 16' follows the adventures of Raven, a teenage vampire recruited by a policewoman named Mac. I liked this film overall, but a few things seemed underdeveloped. I'll just discuss the highs and lows of what appear to be the four key story lines.

I. The Raven/Mac Relationship

Surprisingly, this story line left a bit to be desired. This is the core relationship of the film, right? Two women who are alone in life -- with a few things in common -- begin forming an unlikely mother/daughter bond. I enjoyed what I saw, but I was expecting much more.

However, I liked how Mac gradually warmed up to Raven as the film progressed, embracing the idea of being there for her. These two had some nice moments of humor as well. There's also a revelation about Mac's past, which makes this relationship all the more intriguing.

II. The School Mystery

When two high school kids die under mysterious circumstances, Raven is sent in to pose as a student. Overall, the mystery doesn't exactly draw you in. Maybe the protagonists could've asked more questions and encountered more obstacles to spice things up.

There's certainly a good amount of time dedicated to the mystery, though, so I applaud the writers for making a decent effort in that regard. The resolution was fun to watch.

III. Raven's Detective Skills

I know that she's lived for a while, but Raven seemed like too much of a natural at all of the investigative stuff. Going back to my first point, perhaps the writers could've shown Mac training her more, along with some bonding moments.

Still, it was nice to watch Raven using her brain to put all the pieces together. And it's especially fun when her supernatural vampire abilities come into play.

IV. The Raven/Connor Relationship

The film's attempt at a romance. It appears that some of this story line was edited out, because it didn't make much sense to me when Raven began falling for Connor. A true romance involves more than a few jokes and pleasantries here and there.

These characters do have few nice moments, though, and the actors handle things well enough.

Overall, I count myself as a fan of this film. I'm fond of Raven and Mac's world, so I definitely hope to see a follow-up.

Married People, Single Sex: Urban Adultery (2002 Video)

For Those Who Want A Story

[7/10 · 12 March 2006]

Some people, like the previous reviewer, just don't get it. If you're simply looking for porn, then this isn't for you, but if you want an erotic piece of storytelling, check out 'Married People, Single Sex: Urban Adultery'.

This is a well-written and very well-acted tale of three couples (each of which are friends with the others) going through everyday issues that deal with the realities of being in love for an extended period of time. After three years of happiness, Allison wants to marry Shawn. He knows it and their friends know it, but he's still not ready, which creates awkwardness and outside temptations. Charlotte and Jessie have been happily married for some time now, but her professional life and a matter from her past cause her to begin slowly pushing him away, emotionally and physically, creating confusion and frustration on his part in a tale of patience, revelation, and commitment. In a story line that tests fidelity and morality, things were going smoothly for Bruce and Maya, until her old college friend Candace shows up and stays over for a few days. This last one is ultimately a reminder that simply growing up doesn't necessarily make you mature enough to be in love.

Via several personal narratives in which each character takes a moment to talk to the audience, further insight is conveyed about the past and present of the current situation.

Neither overly spectacular or bland, this is simply a nicely done story that provides a good amount of entertainment on the adult love life.

Earthworm Jim (1995–1996)

Better Than Pro Wrestling

[28 May 2005]

Put simply, "Earthworm Jim" was one of the funniest and most entertaining television programs on the air during the time of its run, and remains one of the most creatively humorous cartoons of all time.

The series takes several of the characters and scenarios from the video game it's based on and brings them to stunning life, including Princess What's-Her-Name, Peter Puppy (who'd always honor anything at all that impressed him with the "Better than..." comment), and a motley cast of rogues who helped keep things funny.

It's truly one of the most notable animated shows in history (and had a great theme song too), so here's hoping it's preserved on DVD.

Underworld (2003)

A well-balanced and well made film

[27 September 2003]

"…I've never looked back," says Selene, the protagonist of this story when explaining the origins of who she is at present. The same could be said about the mood of 'Underworld.' Almost right away, it hooks the viewer with action and proceeds to further examining the current situation of the story, taking little-to-no time for humor and other distractions while pursuing its goal -- which is to present the audience with a very engaging movie. It's a mission that's very much successful. As the film progresses, we watch Selene bust some skill as she hunts, investigates, and narrates, all while fighting on the side of her fellow vampires in the (seeming) final days of a very long conflict between them and the lycans (a clipped form of lycanthrope -- or werewolf). She's a highly determined and highly aware soldier who's got the attention of several members of her kind, and gradually gains the sympathy of the viewer by staying logically open-minded and having a heart that seemingly defies her cold exterior -- to an extent anyway. Watching Kate Beckinsale (who gives a great performance) long enough in this movie, it becomes kind of funny and weird to remember that this is the same woman who once played the far different Ethel in 'Royal Deceit.'

But it's not all about action, nor is it all about Selene. Between the ambitious Kraven, legendary Viktor, reserved Michael, and mysterious Lucian, there are several diverse are entertaining personalities in this story, and when one character claims to have taken a lot but given so much more, it serves as an example of the self-delusional excuses one can always find to defend selfishness -- or in other words, an example of how the vampires and lycans can't entirely escape their humanity.

There are several others. As the background plot begins intermingling with hints dropped in the foreground, 'Underworld' reveals itself as a fairly emotional picture, with several much-appreciated close-ups of Beckinsale's dark and brooding good looks (and when considering those, it's rather charming to recall that she and the director reportedly became romantically involved).

Here's the thing about the ending: in films, the anticlimax is something that's perfectly respectable if the story isn't over when the movie is. But in the case of 'Underworld,' it's a little difficult to know how to feel about this, since there's no guarantee that the tale will get a chance to continue (Hollywood economics, of course, will probably always come first). Hopefully the rumors of a sequel or two are true, though. This is a mix of quality storytelling and cool special effects that's very deserving of a follow-up.

Digimon Tamers (2001–2002)

Better than you first think

[17 July 2002]

At first glance, "Digimon Tamers" comes off as a barely interesting tale with characters who aren't nearly as easy to sympathize with as those of the original. The saying that first impressions are often wrong has perhaps, never been more right.

As it progresses, the show reveals itself as an addicting, exciting, and oh-so darker story than the (excellent) original. There are moments when this series suddenly jumps off the 'kiddie' train and presents drama that can surprise, anger, or otherwise touch viewers. Matters such as depression, self-evaluation, and of course, the bonds between the Digimon and the humans are all done quite well as every character becomes a little more interesting. In addition, this incarnation has the best written romance yet, and I found myself rooting for the two key players involved almost the whole time. The directing and battles are also decent, and some of the humor is actually funny.

When all is said and done, if nothing else, "Tamers" is certainly one of those stories you'll remember--and for good reason.

Dark Shadows (1966–1971)

Wow

[11 May 2002]

I'd heard the name "Dark Shadows" for a while before watching, but I just never imagined the show was so good. After viewing about only four episodes I joined the wide range of fans.

It's charming, addicting, and full of standout characters (Angelique just rules).

Skate (2001– )

Different and entertaining

[20 April 2002]

"SK8" often uses a unique visual style that effectively conveys a spirit of youth and a sense of motion.

The plots (which include running out of free areas to skate, the ups and downs of shop business, projects centered around the activity, etc.) are usually written in an entertaining enough fashion, with humorous, catchy dialogue that tends to avoid the overly obnoxious route.

Plot isn't the only focus of course. The way the issues at hand affect friendships and personal character is also covered, with subtle (which are often the best kind) hints of romance possibly thrown in as well.

Overall, "SK8" doesn't try to be anything but a somewhat different, entertaining kind of show. That's what it is. No more--and no less.

Homicide: Life on the Street (1993–1999)

Excellent

[10 March 2002]

As an aspiring writer, and a longtime local of Maryland, this series has continuously touched me and will probably always be in my memories.

Not much more can be said about "Homicide: Life on the Street" that hasn't already been said. Excellent writing, gripping messages, memorable characters...this is an example of the epitome of drama, this is a study of human behavior, and like the book that inspired it, this is a tribute to the brave men and women who strive to see that justice is served in real life.

In case you don't know the general idea, it's about a believable group of individuals tracking down killers--who are often portrayed as disturbed individuals themselves, not brawlers. The heart of the stories primarily takes place in two settings: The box, and the street--with humorous, often thought provoking intervals happening in the station and during car scenes.

The best season: Six, in my opinion. This season combined the series' great writing (stories like "Blood Ties", "The Subway", "Abduction", "Finnegan's Wake", "Fallen Heroes", etc.) with some general excitement throughout almost the entire run of episodes. Also, every character present has something interesting or likable about them (the poster for "Homicide: The Movie" features mostly the collective image of season six). "Homicide" didn't often focus on intimate relationships, but the main one towards the story's end was developed in a clever, truly romantic way.

Overall, as you've probably heard before, this is one of the best shows ever to air on television. It will always be regarded as such.