sameko_shark Reviews

Shark Huntress (2021)

A Lone Voice of Reason in a Sea of Criticism

[8/10 · 22 November 2023]

Let's face it, standing up for "Shark Huntress" in a sea of low ratings feels like being Galileo surrounded by staunch believers of the geocentric model. I'm here, telescope in hand, trying to show a different perspective on a film that's unfairly judged, much like Galileo faced off against the inquisitors.

I get why some might not be thrilled with this film. Sure, the sharks aren't in every other scene, and there aren't as many dramatic human-shark encounters as you might expect in a typical shark film. I'll be the first to admit that it doesn't follow the usual high-adrenaline, high-body-count formula. But that's exactly where its charm lies.

"Shark Huntress" is not your average shark movie. It's like heliocentrism in a world of steadfast earth-centrists. It doesn't rely on the typical crutches of this genre - over-sexualized women in bikinis and over-the-top, unrealistic shark action. Instead, it offers a fresh perspective, focusing on real storytelling, character depth, and environmental awareness.

The emotional depth, especially seen in Sheila's journey and her connection with her late mother, is something rarely explored in shark movies. It's a poignant, impactful narrative that brings a much-needed human element to the genre.

The film's approach to environmental themes is both enlightening and refreshing. It addresses real issues like ocean pollution and marine conservation, making it not just a piece of entertainment but a thought-provoking experience.

In conclusion, "Shark Huntress" is like a beacon of truth in a genre often clouded by clichés and superficiality. It deserves more recognition, not as just another shark movie, but as a film that dares to swim against the current of conventional shark cinema. Like Galileo challenging the geocentric view, this movie challenges us to rethink what a shark movie can be.

Ozark Sharks (2015 TV Movie)

Not Your Typical Z-grade Shark Movie

[7/10 · 15 September 2023]

Overview: The fourth entry in what's known as the Z-grade shark series surprisingly breaks the mold. Not only does it elevate itself above its predecessors, but it stands firm as a C-grade delight that genuinely entertains.

Details: While there were certain moments that felt misaligned - be it the overly murky 'lake' that looked more swamp-like, the urgency of getting a character medical attention, or questioning if Curtis really met his fate due to a shark - the movie showcased a notable improvement from the trilogy I've watched before. The actors seemed to have refined their craft, the score harmoniously flowed with each scene, and the cinematography? Top-notch. An absolute treat for the eyes.

A word on the shark's representation: the creators could've taken cues from 'Jaws' where the unseen often amplifies the fear.

Personal Take: Having watched a fair share of mediocre shark films, this one brought to mind the transition from casually watching local baseball to witnessing a high-stakes minor league game. Aside from 'Deep Blue', this film managed to captivate me in a way others failed.

Conclusion: While it's a refreshing turn in the shark film genre, it may not be everyone's cup of tea. But if you're in the mood for something different and a notch above the usual, give it a shot.

Empire of the Apes (2013)

From Shark Thrills to Primate Chills: Polonia's Wild Ride!

[3/10 · 15 September 2023]

Taking a sidestep from the adrenaline-packed world of shark movies, I decided to embark on Mark Polonia's jungle-themed venture. Imagine a craftsman from Pennsylvania, best known for his undersea predators, now navigating the vibrant canopy of primate cinema. It's akin to replacing "Jaws" with "Curious George" - but with some added twists.

In the primate world, it's not about the size. A monkey and a man don't differ much there. The challenge? Bringing a troop of them together to captivate us. Think of it as casting a Broadway show, but with our furry friends - and yes, it's as pricey as it sounds!

Our story? A rebellious group of female convicts shooting for the stars, quite literally. Their escape vehicle? A hijacked spaceship. Their unexpected landing spot? A realm ruled by primates. And in this landscape, Polonia's magic comes alive. Firework-like lasers, a primate overlord named Korg, whose voice could rival the loudest of rock concerts, and an ensemble of distinctive convicts, each painting their own story.

But, as the plot thickened, I must admit, my eyelids did the opposite. By the time the curtains drew on this cinematic adventure, I emerged with a sense of clarity - perhaps the silver screen isn't always greener on the primate side.

In conclusion? Unless you have a soft spot for monkeys or are aboard the Polonia express, this film might not be your next stop.

The Fabelmans (2022)

Reflections on Spielberg's Autobiographical Journey

[9/10 · 15 September 2023]

Steven Spielberg has always been a cornerstone in the world of cinema. It's no exaggeration to say he's shaped a significant portion of my artistic appreciation. His perception often aligns with mine, making me gravitate towards what he finds intriguing.

"Feiblemans" is a treat for Spielberg enthusiasts. It provides a window into his meticulous approach to film shooting, revealing how these tendencies trace back to his formative years. The recurring theme of dysfunctional families in his works (e.g., "Duel", "Jaws", "Close Encounters of the Third Kind") is perhaps influenced by his personal experiences, maybe the trauma of his parents' divorce.

However, those unfamiliar with Spielberg's legacy might question its significance, raising the broader debate on the potential biases in autobiographical films.

While I found the film captivating, its appeal to a broader audience remains to be seen. The craftsmanship, unsurprisingly, is top-notch - quintessential Spielberg.

On a side note, the idea of an autobiographical film on George Lucas sounds tantalizing. If it ever materializes, count me in!

Mississippi River Sharks (2017 TV Movie)

A Riveting Dive into Romance and Comedy!

[7/10 · 13 September 2023]

I've been a fan of Misty Talley's works for a while now, and "Mississippi River Sharks" is another feather in her cap. The romantic subplot between Tara and her high school sweetheart, Eric, is touching and reminiscent of old flames many of us have experienced. Talley has a knack for presenting romance that resonates.

One of the standout aspects of this film is Talley's representation of strong female leads. Perhaps her perspective as a female director adds an authentic touch, making these characters both relatable and empowering.

But what truly had me grinning from ear to ear was the film-within-a-film concept. "Shark Bite", starring Jason London, is a delightful jest at cinematic clichés. Those parody subtitles, like "Shark Bite 2: Sharks in the Ozarks" and "Shark Bite 3: Prawn of the Dead", are just the kind of tongue-in-cheek humor I adore. It's a playful nod to film enthusiasts, making it a treat for casual viewers and movie buffs alike.

Here's hoping Talley might consider expanding on "Shark Bite" in the future. I, for one, would be front and center, popcorn in hand.

From the Depths (2020)

An Unseen Masterpiece Waiting to Surface

[8/10 · 30 June 2023]

Alright, so you know how it goes when a movie is just so under the radar it's practically in stealth mode, right? Well, that's pretty much the deal with 'From the Depths'. It's not exactly blowing up on IMDb or getting rave reviews in the mainstream media. But trust me, my take is different. I mean, I've gone through the trouble of adding Japanese subtitles to this thing, and let me tell you, that really immerses you in its world.

Despite featuring a bare-bones cast, the movie is a total knockout. Every character, every interaction just packs a punch. It's like finding a diamond in the rough, you know? Totally unexpected but totally worth it.

And let's not even get started on the fact that it hasn't made its way to Japan yet - not in cinemas, not on streaming, not even on DVD or Blu-ray. That's just a major bummer. As someone who stumbled upon this gem, added subtitles, and lived to tell the tale, I gotta say: it's a wild ride that everyone should get to experience.

So for all you lucky ducks who have a shot at watching 'From the Depths', don't snooze on it. It's not your typical popcorn flick, but man, it's something else. To my homies back in Japan, let's keep our fingers crossed and hope that this hidden gem will surface in our neck of the woods soon. It's a cinematic adventure that'll be worth every second of the wait. Trust me on this one, dudes and dudettes.

Noah's Shark (2021)

An Underrated Ride!

[7/10 · 28 June 2023]

Okay, so you know how sometimes the most hyped-up movie on IMDb doesn't always do it for you, right? Now, take "Noah's Shark". Not exactly a crowd favorite on IMDb, but man, I've got a different take. I've worked on the Japanese subtitles for this thing, which got me deep into its vibe.

The shark movie buffs I hang out with actually rate it pretty high, so it's got some real street cred. And seriously, the focus on a simple plank of wood? That's some next-level creativity right there.

And don't even get me started on Mark Polonia's unique style. It's like catching that perfect wave at the beach, just gives you a thrill. His style flows through "Noah's Shark", leaving a mark that's hard to shake off.

To wrap it up, "Noah's Shark" is a must-see - it might not be the usual Hollywood cup of tea, but it's like finding a hidden gem at the bottom of the bargain bin. If you're into Polonia's stuff or just looking for something out of the box, this is the perfect flick for your popcorn night.