monstermunch- Reviews

Older Gods (2023)

Interesting and different

[6/10 · 2 August 2023]

Great slow burn film that does a lot with a obviously small budget.

Like the themes of the universe is so big, the fear of being so insignificant can make a lot of people crazy. Which is the basis of the evil cult in this film.

Any gripes with it personally is just me wishing for a bigger budget which is the only thing keeping it from a higher score from me (id like to see monsters and more characters etc but to be fair its not really that kinda movie anyway and its obvious they simply did what they can afford.)

Acted well. Good direction. Cinematography is really nice. Interesting themes.

Give it a try.

The Shining (1980)

A Haunting Masterpiece

[10/10 · 2 August 2023]

"The Shining," directed by the legendary Stanley Kubrick, is a cinematic tour de force that continues to captivate audiences decades after its initial release. Released in 1980, this horror classic is a brilliant adaptation of Stephen King's novel, showcasing Kubrick's unparalleled mastery of suspense, atmosphere, and storytelling.

The film revolves around the Torrance family, played exceptionally well by Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, and Danny Lloyd. Jack Torrance, a struggling writer, accepts a position as the off-season caretaker at the isolated Overlook Hotel, accompanied by his wife Wendy and their psychic son Danny. As the family becomes increasingly isolated by harsh winter weather and sinister forces, the hotel's malevolent history begins to unravel.

One of the most remarkable aspects of "The Shining" is Stanley Kubrick's deft direction and his meticulous attention to detail. From the iconic Steadicam tracking shots to the eerie set design, each frame is crafted with precision, building an unsettling atmosphere that lingers throughout the film. The hotel's vast, empty corridors and chillingly deserted rooms contribute to a sense of impending doom, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats.

Jack Nicholson's portrayal of Jack Torrance is nothing short of iconic. He delivers an unforgettable performance, conveying a descent into madness with chilling intensity. His facial expressions and maniacal laughter are etched into cinematic history, making him one of the most memorable and terrifying antagonists in horror film history.

Shelley Duvall's portrayal of Wendy Torrance has been the subject of much debate over the years. While some criticize her performance as too distressed and vulnerable, others argue that it adds to the overall sense of horror and helplessness. Regardless, she successfully portrays the fear and desperation of a mother trying to protect her son from a horrifying fate.

Young Danny Lloyd is exceptional in his role as Danny Torrance, showcasing an innocence and maturity beyond his years. His psychic abilities, represented by the unsettling "shining," form a crucial element in the plot, intensifying the film's supernatural themes.

Moreover, the film's haunting musical score, composed by Wendy Carlos and Rachel Elkind, contributes significantly to its eerie atmosphere. The spine-chilling sound design, featuring the repetitive and unnerving "Dies Irae" motif, further elevates the sense of dread and unease throughout the film.

Despite some differences from Stephen King's novel, Kubrick's adaptation offers a more enigmatic and ambiguous narrative, allowing for multiple interpretations. This artistic choice has sparked numerous discussions and theories among viewers, giving "The Shining" a timeless quality that remains relevant in contemporary film analysis.

Pan's Labyrinth (2006)

A Dark Fairy Tale Masterpiece

[9/10 · 2 August 2023]

Pan's Labyrinth, directed by the visionary Guillermo del Toro, is an extraordinary and mesmerizing cinematic gem that artfully blends fantasy, horror, and historical drama into a hauntingly beautiful and emotionally profound tale. Released in 2006, this Spanish-language film has left an indelible mark on cinema, earning critical acclaim and capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Set against the backdrop of post-Civil War Spain, the film transports us to a world where reality and fantasy collide, blurring the lines between the innocent imagination of a young girl and the harrowing brutality of war. Young Ofelia, played with impeccable skill by Ivana Baquero, serves as our guide through this twisted fairy tale. Her journey takes us deep into a mythical underworld, where she must navigate the labyrinthine paths of her own emotions and confront the haunting creatures that dwell within.

Del Toro's brilliant direction elevates the film to a level of storytelling rarely seen in modern cinema. The contrast between the dark and grim reality of war-torn Spain and the ethereal beauty of the fantastical realm creates a profound dichotomy, mirroring the stark contrast between childhood innocence and the horrors of adulthood.

The film's visual aesthetics are nothing short of awe-inspiring. The magical creatures are brought to life through a seamless combination of practical effects and stunning CGI, a testament to del Toro's unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. Every frame is filled with intricate details, from the eerie Pale Man with eyes on the palms of his hands to the enigmatic Faun, played remarkably by Doug Jones. Del Toro masterfully captures the essence of fairy tales while infusing them with a darkness that taps into the very core of human nature.

Pan's Labyrinth not only captivates with its extraordinary visuals but also deeply resonates through its poignant themes. At its core, the film explores the power of imagination as a coping mechanism for the harsh realities of life, as well as the unyielding strength of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming darkness. This combination of hope and despair is beautifully woven into the narrative, leaving the audience emotionally moved long after the credits have rolled.

The performances of the entire cast are exceptional, with standout performances from Sergi López as the cruel Captain Vidal and Maribel Verdú as the sympathetic housekeeper Mercedes. Their characters provide an excellent contrast to the innocence of Ofelia and reinforce the film's themes of good versus evil.

While the film's mature themes and haunting imagery may not be suitable for younger audiences, Pan's Labyrinth is an absolute must-see for lovers of artful storytelling. Guillermo del Toro has masterfully crafted a dark fairy tale that transcends genre boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema. This mesmerizing and haunting masterpiece will linger in your thoughts long after the credits roll, and it firmly establishes Guillermo del Toro as a master storyteller in his own right.