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Reviews
Rebel Moon - Part Two: The Scargiver (2024)
Honestlt? Disappointing, but watchable
Disappointing, but watchable. I honestly enjoyed Rebel Moon Part 1 - better fighting scenes, introduction into characters, and set up story premise. Loved the special effects makeup and CGI in it. But Rebel Moon Part 2 seriously fell short. It just lacked so much. My partner and I ended up laughing more at moments in the film than taking it seriously. The action and fighting could have been so much better, it was really disappointing. We both agree that one of the only redeeming action sequences was a random farmer man coming out of nowhere, slaughtering a bunch of troops, and then yeeting himself onto an ememy ship. We have no idea who this farmer man is lol, but he was fantastic. Most of the main characters really fell short as did the plot. If there is a Rebel Moon Part 3, the makers, writers, directors really need to step up their game. I'm not sure if Netflix will honestly greenlight another film. But we'll see.
If you've seen Part 1 and liked it, I'd recommend watching Part 2, it's not bad or awful, it's watchable. But it's not good or great in my opinion, and certainly doesn't live up to the quality of Part 1.
The Resort (2021)
I think this is the first time I've left a 1 star review
What's there to say... this is it if those rare times, when I'll say, believe the reviews, and actually save yourself of your time being wasted. I give pretty much any movie ago, but I regret this so much. I literally have a severe tension headache by how much this film bothered me by it's simply terrible quality. Honestly? It felt like soooo much of this was a long drawn out Instagram photo and series of instagram videos. If I wanted that (I sincerely don't) then I'd go to Instagram! But instead the viewer is subjected to it... gosh this movie was so painful to sit through.
Only good aspects at all:
- some nice scenery shots (but waaay too drawn out with music that felt like it was for a modelling advertisement)
- good acting from the two male leads for different reasons, I'll give credit for that
- one character with actual common sense that most horror films are totally missing (the character is Chris played by Brock O'Hurn)
As for the cons there are too many...
My biggest gripe is how the majority of this is just like a long instram photo and video. Ugh.
Female acting is truly terrible for both female leads.
Maybe if this movie was a slasher, it would have been less painful, because when you have the irritating characters possible, and they are taken out, there's somev relief for the viewer.
I sincerely hope this reviews saves you. Save your valuable time. Watch Grave Encounters instead. Or Devil's Pass. For something completely different try Triangle, or A Spoonful of Sugar. Avoid spoliers for the last 3 films at all costs.
Sigh. I really do hope this review saves you the 70 something minutes of this terrible film. May you avoid it and find something at least passable to watch. Good luck xx.
Yellowjackets (2021)
Not perfect, but absolutely addictive!
After binging season 1 and 2, I can say that I love this show. Is it perfect? No, but is great for what it is? Yes!
For a show that is blending several genres together, I think it's doing very well. I also love that if you pay attention, there are lots of little easter eggs and references, that once you pick up on and research, add a whole other layer of depth to the show, characters and purposes.
Yellowjackets is a blend of a deep drama, survival, mystery, horror, thriller, with it's tibits of black and quirky comedy, and truly disturbing moments.
In terms of whether this show is a slow burn - yes and no. Once the plane crashes, things really kick off. I personally feel that in every episode from Season 1 Ep 2 onwards that there is always something engaging going on in every episode; usually one or more things at the same time, and it's all relevant. So it doesn't feel slow to me. However, I can appreciate that in terms of the bigger picture of the whole story unravelling and simultaneously the future as well - it is a slow burn. If you're expecting explanations, and the bigger, more gnawing mystery being solved and handed on a plate to you, then this isn't the show for you. Incremental reveals are made overtime. They feel worth it to me. I personally can't wait for season 3 to see what will unfold in the greater mystery, and furthermore in understanding these characters better!
Every actor does a phenomenal performance in their role. I was brought to tears and shaking from several scenes. One thing for certain about this show is that it is heavily themed around trauma, and what can happen when extreme trauma is ignored or not given care and early intervention. We see the past traumas still very much alive in the survivors of Yellowjackets, and how these traumas age manifesting in each person uniquely.
One question remains for me, did they create something together... or, was there something already there?
I hope you find this show as engaging and thought-provoking as I have! I revommend avoiding spoilers too.
Onmyoji (2023)
Beautiful anime adaption!
This is a beautiful anime, and has me fully engaged with each new episode. I think this series is a fantastic addition to 2023's animations. Not only do I appreciate the sardonic tones of the main character, as well as the themes explored of a deeper nature, primarily of the human condition, even the sad and the darker dimensions of it - but I for one really am moved by the emotionality that these tales and the characters possess. There is heart in this series. It actually reminds me of an anime named Monster, and not because of the story or pacing of that series, but for its ability for each episode and it's characters to have an emotional impact on the viewer. I find this really beautiful, and more rare to come by in any form of series or film. So I personally, am loving this show for this particular quality.
I didn't know what to expect from this anime when it popped up on my Netflix screen today. I'm so glad that I have it a go, though.
Onmyoji 2023 series is an adaption of short stories and a series of novels, written by Baku Yumemakura, beginning in 1980s. These stories were so alluring and successful, that they were adapted into Manga, film, and a video game was even created, although the latter is more loosely based upon Baku's original work.
Baku's stories are inspired by Abe no Seimei - a very famous, legendary figure in Japanese folklore, as well as a figure of historical prominence, too. Recorded to have lived between 921 A. D. to 1005. He was an onmyoji, and a leading specialist of Onmyodo during the middle of the Heian period in Japan. But rather than doing research on this fascinating figure yet, I encourage you to discover him through this series itself. I don't think you'll be disappointed!
This animated adaptation Onmyoji is said to be based on the original short stories and novels by Baku Yumemakura and not the adaptions.
The story of this animation follows the mysterious and powerful onmyouji 'Abe no Seimei', as he comes into contact with the naive but good-hearted royal lord 'Minamoto no Hiromasa.' What starts seemingly as a connection out of necessity, with quite entertaining and at times touching chemistry, begins developing beyond that of merely collegues, into that of a genuine friendship. Together, both Seimei and Hiromasa encounter many a tale and adventure. At first, it appears that they are simply tied together by counsel and tasks asked of them by those of greater positions of power, but there comes a deeper calling and purpose - to protect the Heian capital's Kyou, from an antagonistic force with sinister plans. That's all I'll share of the storyline itself.
I really am thoroughly enjoying this beautiful and engaging animated adaption of Baku Yumemakura's works, and I very much hope there will be more to come.
There's much to be said of what 'onmyouji' means, and the fascinating culture and sciences depicted in the series based during the middle of the Heian period in Japan. I certainly have found it all to be very interesting, and magical too.
It is up to you whether you'd like to watch it in English dubbed voices, or the original Japanese voice actors with your preference of subtitles. I'm English speaking, so I tried both. Though the English dubbing is fine, I personally prefer watching it in Japanese with subtitles. I really feel and get more out of the characters through their origin language and the very talented voice actors preforming as them.
I hope this review has helped you decide whether or not to give this new anime a go. Personally, I hope that it's piqued your interest!
Blue Eye Samurai (2023)
Best anime I've seen this year 2023
I have to write a review, because this show is so masterful in all aspects, it completely exceeded my partner and I's expectations. We were glued to the screen. My partner who has done marital arts throughout his whole life was fascinated and fully captivated by the marital arts, choreography, training, and craftsmanship of sword making in this series. I not having any background of these areas, was really just in awe and so intrigued by the artful, careful protrayal of all of this, and so much more in this series. For the characters, their development, the voice acting - is all excellent. The artwork is beautiful and different. The pacing is perfect - building at all the right moments, and breaking out precisely when it is meant to! I highly recommend this series, not only to people who like animation and anime, but genuinely to anyone who would appreciate art; masterful story telling and pacing, well thought out action scenes, and meaningful characters. Some other reveiwers have made comments that this show reminds them of Kill Bill, John Wick and Mulan. I would agree with this. So, if you like any of those films, then this series is definitely for you. A warning though, this is not a show for children. If you have any, wait till they are much older before seeing this. Other than that last bit, seriously watch this underrated and brilliant series!
Saw X (2023)
What all the fans have been asking for!
It's been 19 years since the first Saw film came out. This year, all Saw fans were gifted the sequel we've always longed for, and even more than that. For this film is a masterpiece to me. I cannot think of a single Franchise that has been able to pull something like this off 19 years later. But this year, they did it.
Tobin Bell's preformance is nothing short of moving, chilling, and powerful. I genuinely cried, I laughed, and I felt the pain from his expressions and his character's circumstances. Honestly, his character got into my head, John, and that intertwined aspect of him - Jigsaw. What I witnessed was truly masterful acting, so thank you so much Tobin for gifting us this. At 81 years old, you haven't aged a day, and your acting is just as, if not, more impacting than ever before. Of course, there needs to be something said of Shawnee Smith's performance as well. Nothing short of brilliant! Saw X invites the viewers an ever intriguing peek into her character's personality and developments. Also, the raw chemistry between her and Tobin can really be felt, and is part of what really makes this film such a success. It still holds up to the chemistry in their scenes together in the original films. They really do have shared screen presence, so I can't help but think they must feel a connection on a personal level, too. It must have been amazing for them to reconnect after all these years, in a worthy Saw project.
I'm still in shock by how amazing this film was to me. It exceeded all expectations. I felt such nostalgia watching this gem. I highly recommend it to all Saw fans. Do not miss it, or it will be a major loss for you. If you haven't seen the Saw films before, definitely watch the first one, and perhaps Saw 2, even 3 if you want although it's not required. If you dig what you're experiencing, then watch Saw X. Even better to watch it in proper chronological order.
Applause to everyone that made this film possible. I can't recall having felt this kind of excitement and satisfaction from a film in a franchise before. This film can easily be rated 9 out of 10, I think that would be fairly accurate. However, because I am a fan of the original Saw films, and this one was particularly special for me, I'm giving it a 10 out of 10. My partner feels the same way, in the sense that he thinks this film is something different and much like the original films. He and his buds grew up as major fans of the originals when they were released.
In summary, this film is epic on it's own, but it's even better when combining it with the first 3 films for a richer storyline.
I highly recommending heading down to the cinema and seeing it that way for the full experience! I especially encourage original Saw fans to not miss this one! It really is different to other Saw films in the franchise later on. This one will definitely give you nostalgia, and I'm sure you will rate it anywhere between 7 out of 10 at lowest, to 10 out of 10. Enjoy, and best wishes!
The Fall of the House of Usher (2023)
I went in a sceptical. Now I see it as a masterpiece.
Incredible. This series was like a symphony of music for me. Music has the amazing gift to stir every kind of emotion in you, I believe. It tells a story. A symphony - all parts are connected. At times it may not feel that they flow, the key and chords can feel discordant and jarring. But still it is all connected. It all flows as a river, but like a river, where does it start? We are already in the river's flow, you see. The river can be flowing adante con moto, then overturing over a grand and terrifying waterfall. It can then gather itself again, flowing once more like a solemn adante or haunting waltz. But then arrives allegro, and now it's becoming a raging presto, and then if you've managed to stay afloat- the river it finally meets, the ocean, the finale! The orchestral conclusion is here, enveloping all. The bigger picture is seen and realised, - a masterpiece!
This series is not solely an adaption or interpretion of Edgar Allan Poe's story The Fall of the House of Usher, so anyone who has only read this tale may feel confused, some seem to even have taken offence (which I feel is just a misunderstanding.) However the name chosen The Fall of The House of Usher is very fitting and encasing. For every episode and this series as a whole, is really a collection of Edgar Alan Poe's stories. If you are a lover of Poe, then I have no doubt that you will appreciate, and perhaps adore and be in awe of this series, as I am. For the collection of stories Mike Flannigan has lovingly drawn directly from Egdar Alan Poe, and given his own flare - all manages to encase and tie together within a greater main story arc and mystery. Although each episode draws inspiration from an individual story of Edgar's, Flannigan in his own, beautiful way, ties it all together, to tell a tale so emotionally stirring for one's heart, as well as absolutely chilling to the bone.
I recommend watching this series home, alone by yourself (albeit pets), in the evening in total darkness with naught a light, or better yet, even later within the night. With this set up, I believe you have the opportunity to experience the suspense and the overall eeriness of The Fall of the House of Usher, creeping out behind you as a spider, making its way upon your shoulder like the sense of an unknown touch you swear you felt, and then curling it's beautiful and terrifying web around you. If you are akin to me, the grip of that silken web, and the presence of the spider, will feel all the more present, becoming tighter and tighter around you, pulling in your senses, as the series unfolds, episode by episode... and you might perhaps, certainly in the last chapters, feel genuinely entraced from what you're witnessing from within this web - whether that entrancement is caused by the effects of spider's poison, or the illuminous and beautiful web itself. Perhaps it will be both. You might truly experience that musical overture and conclusion in all its beauty and horror. You might very much feel alive at the end. I hope that you will be your experience.
This is not horror for everyone. May it be understood that at the core of all Mike Flannigan's works, is the deep exploration of humanity and all it's themes. Part of what makes his creations what they are, is the strong rooting of individual development; for better or for worse for them. That is the human condition right there, and I feel it will always be at the basis of Flannigan's work. You don't have to like the characters, that's not the point. But certainly every character in any of his series, reflects something of humanity and society, and extends an invitation of introspection and pondering to the observer.
As with the case of Flannigan's previous series, all actors perfomances in The Fall of the House of Usher are phenomenal. Each series shows us what brilliant and compelling range they have, and this new series definitely blows the roof off, in my opinion. You may see some of these actors playing roles you never imagined they would. But they pull it off, and not just well, but superbly.
For me personally, and as a fan of Edgar Alan Poe's works since I was a young girl, I feel this series is such a beautiful tribute to him. I feel Poe himself would be humbled and proud of this, if he were alive today. This series really is poetry, it really is the heart of great story telling, and it really is venturing into such deep introspection, philosophical musing, and reflections over what it is to be a human; to be this alive thing in this world, in this society ever changing over time.
Some may not be aware, but in this series many stories of Poe's, so much of all his works, are being drawn upon for inspiration. In each episode there is specific tale of Poe's being portrayed uniquely. But as a whole, the overarching story of this series is drawn from two particular works of Poe's; and it encases all the other stories beautifully and chillingly, with a finale that personally blew me away. This series and it's final coda; it's all encompassing conclusion, brought me to tears. That says a lot, at least for me. I was deeply moved.
Not everyone will be moved from watching this, or if they are moved, perhaps not to the same degree as I have been (though some definitely will be.) At that same token, not everyone will experience this series with appreciation or praise, or feel it's chilling and building presence, and that's okay. Such is life. Like it, dislike it, hate it, or love it. At least it's given you your own experience.
What I will say, is there is so much more depth to this series than what I feel is realised by many who have seen it, or have tried viewing a couple of episodes.
If you are a fan of Mike Flannigan's work, and you understand what angle he is coming from in his works, then I wholeheartedly recommend The Fall of the House of Usher to you.
Just the same, if you are especially a lover of Poe and poetry, or even if you simply are intrigued by philosophy and myth, then do watch this, please. I'm sure you will feel much awe and experience much musing, especially as it all ties in together. The poetry, the scripts, the merging and unfolding of the overarching tale itself, and of course, the incredible perfomances by the actors, - I'm sure will stay with you. I am sure when you conclude the series, you will be pleased.
Speaking of the horror genre in general, in my opinion this series (and Mike Flannigan's other works) most definitely has it's place in the horror category. However, may you understand what it is deeply rooted within - story telling. It invites introspection, it delivers emotionality, it explores human beings and our complex nature's. It takes one along a ride of silently witnessing the characters in the tale and grander design, and where their fates spin and fall (or rise). Flannigan's works always have these foundations in my opinion, therefore one could fairly say his series are of the drama genre. I would strongly agree. But, I also strongly believe that this series and his other works are of the horror genre as well. But not a generic type of horror, more the kind that usually has a slow build, creating momentum with each new chapter (by that point usually you cannot turn away from the series, it's got you and you know it). If you are able to see the depths within what you're witnessing, some of the very real reflections and deeper themes, uncertainties, fears and primitive elements of the human condition - then truly, a series like this can have the ability to create such an atmosphere of eeriness within one's own environment and one's own self (and human predicaments), - that you may find it very difficult to fall asleep soundly that same night without echos of haunting thoughts, and the urge to turn on a source of light.
For the remainder of my review, feel free to go look up the website letterboxd, and skyheartpixels.
I truly hope you gain something satisfying if you watch the haunting, beautiful, disturbing and thought-provoking series; The Fall of the House of Usher. Best wishes.
Under a Lover's Moon (2021)
So...
My partner and I kept trying to watch Dashcams Australia on YouTube. You know, something actually entertaining. Little did we know the TV decided to be cursed, and kept turning off the Youtube App and going to the same channel with this movie. My God. We are dying. We nearly died. We've tried probably 7 or 8 times to just watch Dash Cam Australia on YouTube lol, is that too much to ask? Instead we were subjected to this film. This film is.... not something. It's not anything. It will deprive you of brain cells. It will bore you, irritate you, possibly strike fear and repulsion in you. I feel less alone seeing the reviews for this film, thank you. Do yourself a favour, avoid this. Avoid this at all costs, and in my case, get a new TV.
The Simpsons: Mothers and Other Strangers (2021)
Disappointing to say the least...
I don't mind Modern Simpson's episodes for the most part, and a some have been brilliant, however... the writers NEED to stop contradicting and ignoring the extremely important character development that happened in earlier seasons of The Simpson's! These are they times that I do feel extremely frustrated and upset by modern Simpson's episodes.
I have no issue with the modern episodes generally being portrayed alongside modern day times and current technology. To me that just makes sense. Series that run as long as The Simpson's need to naturally evolve with the times and be approachable to new generations as well.
However! There is no need to neglect and contradict incredibly profound character development and storyline in earlier seasons. Writers can certainly build off those developments, that's fine, but they do NOT need to change the specific facts of those past and important developments, such as Homer only finding out when he was 39 years old, that his mother was infact alive. The original episode Mother Simpson, is one of the most beloved and praised Simpson's episodes of all time. To contradict that original episode is honestly a real disservice to the series, and a betrayal to the majority of Simpson's fans out there.
Because of the above, I found it very challenging to like this episode. For me there were some good redeeming aspects though - the music score was beautiful, the dark humour weaved through the very real portrayal of how corrupt and genuinely unqualified people are behind app's like Betterhelp was great, and also the amusing segments regarding Muttflix the premium cable channel for dogs. But in my opinion, these genuinely good aspects are sadly not enough to redeem and save this episode.
I truly hope that the writers will just STOP with the contradictions of earlier, profound character and story development in earlier seasons. Build off from it, sure. But don't contradict or ignore it.
Edit: Although I still stand by my statements above, I wish to add two other things about this episode that had quality. Even though I hate the original canon being written over and think it will always remain to be completely unnecessary, the new story at least portrayed a good emotionality and vulnerability by the characters (but the original Mother Simpson had this too, and more so, in my opinion.) Also, I've the reflected on the scene in which Homer chose to stay with Abe. Abe was an abusive and neglectful father to young Homer, there's no denying that throughout Simpson history. However, he never made the conscious choice to literally abandon Homer for a different life. Homer was at such a young age of crucial development when Mona chose to risk physically abandoning him forever (I don't know if anyone has considered that the trauma really did cause developmental arrest and stunting in him that he lives with unknowningly as an adult character.) So I do give credit to Homer's family dynamic being highlighted in this way in the episode.
The Simpsons: Portrait of a Lackey on Fire (2021)
Very sweet episode! I also appreciate a huge global issue that no one really knows about being exposed on such a big platform like this, and with humour to-boot!
I don't care what anyone thinks, I think it's so wonderful and beautiful that another one of Springfield's most loved characters has found some measure of happiness.
I loved the beginning of the episode for the change in history- finally Smithers meets someone that seems like a great human, who really loves and cares for him!
But then I grew concerned as the viewer, because in the second chapter it turns out this new lover is not the moral billionaire that Smither's thought he was. Rather an immoral person to other people, animals, and the planet. However, despite feeling disappointed for Smithers not experiencing the satisfaction he deserves in a romantic partner, there was still great plot development in my opinion. This is because no one really talks about the immense toxicity and reality of fast fashion industries, especially on such a huge platform like this. I'm actually surprised and very impressed that The Simpson's addressed this global issue. I also thought the writers did a really great job of adding dark humour when portraying how terrible these industries are, such as the scene with helicopter crashing 😆😆😆
Then we end with the final chapter of this episode, where Smither's makes the very difficult decision to end his first and most promising romantic relationship he's ever had, however - there's a silver lining. That beautiful, sweet puppy from the beginning becomes his faithful pet and companion. In uncertain times, they have found each other. I really do agree with the age old saying that 'dog is man's best friend.' All in all I loved this episode.
Also, a shout out to the iltalian chef and his mother! The scenes of them communicating about LGBTIQA+ relationships was great. I'd like more meaningful discussions like this in media and entertainment. What's great about these types of discussions being portrayed in series like The Simpson's, and other animations like American Dad, is they add humour and lightness to it. It's very refreshing.
The Simpsons: A Serious Flanders (2021)
Genuinely good!!
In my opinion, Season 33 is actually on a roll! I am delighted by this season's episodes so far. I actually feel excited for modern The Simpsons! I feel excited for what the rest of this season will be like, but of course, I'm really looking forward to the part 2 of this episode.
When it comes to modern Simpsons episodes, sometimes I dislike them, a couple of episodes I've actually hated, but sometimes I also enjoy them, and there's been a few that I actually think are brilliant. So whatever your relationship is towards this series and it's changes over the decades, even if you dislike or hate the modern day episodes, I do think that this episode may be an exception for you. Especially if you were a fan of the two part classic 'Who Shot Mr Burns?'
Anyway, I don't want to give away any spoilers for this episode. All I'll say is I did have a good laugh at one of the scenes, but I think that making you laugh is not the main motive of this episode. Rather the motive is engage the viewer through good story telling. This is what makes this episode so great - the story line, and the homage it pays. I hope you enjoy it!
The Simpsons: The Wayz We Were (2021)
How wonderful!
I'm so happy for how this episode was written. Moe Szyslak is an important character in The Simpsons. His character has never ceased to make us laugh over the years. He has some truly hilarious lines. But there's far more depth to Moe. He really shows through his character development, much of what the humanity can relate to and is experiencing. Whether it be the blues, or major depressive disorder, the way he is portrayed especially in later seasons, is done so well. His character really shows through his experiences and life's conditioning, many of humanity's inner demons. I really do think that there are many out there, who can relate to at least one thing he struggles with. It could be the inner critic that is inside us all, and for some it is huge and dominating of our lives. This episode portrays the inner critic brilliantly. Another thing that I do believe many can relate to, is failed relationships, especially the kind related directly to one's fears of getting hurt again, of not believing they are good enough, or believing that no one could ever love them or stay. This has been portrayed over the years, and this episode it's written so well. For these reasons, I truly think and feel that this is a beautiful episode, due to it's character development in Moe. It really is so beautiful. He finally faces his fears head on, with someone whom he truly loves, who has reentered his life. Like many of us, we think the relationship will play out the same as a rest. But, if you hang in there long enough, and take some risks to love and commit again, this is the wonderful result that can come true. Moe deserves to have happiness. He deserves this healthy, loving, long term relationship. Not only that, he asked the big question "will you marry me?", and the answer he received was yes. It's so lovely, to see a character portraying what so many in humanity are struggling with on the inside, experience this kind of breakthrough. Sure, he will still struggle, and have his issues. Conditioning cannot ever be changed over night, it takes time, and sometimes a lifetime of work. But this development in Moe Szyslak is significant, it really, really is lovely, and I hope that maybe, his story in this episode, may connect with people out there, and give them a genuine glimmer of hope for present, and for the future.
On a side note, I absolutely loooooved the social commentary on apps, accessing internet pages and making online submissions. Damn is it relatable hahahaha. I especially found the 'select the fire hydrants' segments to be right on point. I was literally dealing with this just the other day, and after I submitted I just kept getting different or the very same 'select blah blah blah' it was soooooo frustrating, I did it 7 times and then I just gave up lol. So yeah, I loved The Simpson's referencing these very real and relatable annoyances!!!
American Dad!: Flush After Reading (2021)
Pride and Prejudice: A Diarrhea Adventure
I definitely think this episode deserves a higher rating. It's one of the more creative American Dad episodes! I loved this episode and the adventures that were had. Very fun!
I particularly enjoyed the different novels and appreciate how each one had it's own artistic, animation style.
Also Roger is perhaps my favourite character of American Dad, or at least in the top 3. So I love that he is a main character in this episode :) I also enjoy any episode where Rogu makes an appearance, and he does in this one. He is truly a little weirdo haha. He has lots of potential as a secondary character.
Like any long running series, it's only natural that it will change overtime. For long running series to not expand and change in some ways, will only cause them to become stagnant, in my opinion. That's one of the reasons why I enjoy American Dad so much. It's genuinely random, quirky and creative. This episode certainly has all those elements. I hope you enjoy :)
Evil Things (2009)
Found Footage Gem
Stumbled upon this movie on Amazon Prime, and I'm really glad I did.
Found Footage has become quite popular overtime, and with that growing popularity, can come some duds. With films pioneering FF like The Blair Witch Project, The Last Broadcast, and Collingswood Story, it's no surprise that we now have so many to choose from. In more recent years, Creep is a fantastic FF, raising the bar again. Paranormal Activity as well, is another good contender.
What works best for a Found Footage film in my opinion, is how authentic and realistic what you're watching feels like. For it to really be scary, it works best to prey on people's primitive fears, such as fear of the unknown, fear of the dark, and fear towards superstitions. It also works just as well, and even better if combined, to prey on realistic fears, such as stalkers, home invasions, serial killers (and these kinds of scary, real world events, don't need to be elaborate or glamorised in order to be frightening.)
When watching a good or great Found Footage film, you're not watching actors. You're watching people. For it to work as FF, what you see has to be as naturalistic as possible. So they're people, rather than coming across as actors on the screen. Another important element for FF in my opinion, is that the source of tension and fear has to have some degree of ambiguity, and that of being "unknown." Again this preys on one's most primitive fears. Some might disagree with the following but if executed well; seeing and knowing less of the threat, can be far more suspenseful and eerie, than directly seeing and knowing what the threat is. Add into all of this the right pacing that gradually builds suspense, and editing in a way that makes the final product feel and look as real as it would be if you or a friend were recording it themself - then you have yourself a decent Found Footage film.
That's what Evil Things is, in my opinion. For me, it felt like watching real people in real danger. It also felt like I shouldn't be watching the footage, that the footage was intended just for those people. That made me feel another layer of eeriness on top of what I was already experiencing.
I get that this particular film and the genre itself won't be for all horror and thriller fans, and that's okay. If you're looking for jump scares, or high budget, and people on screen that -don't- make some poor decisions in the moments of fear for them (think impulsive reactions such as flight, freeze and fight) - then this movie, and probably the FF genre itself, won't be for you. But if you're already a fan of the genre, or not put off by what I've shared in this review, then give it a go. The film just might surprise you, especially if you go into it without expectations. I also encourage you to watch it home alone in the complete dark if you can. I did this and it definitely added tension to the experience.
Outback (2019)
Eh
Rather than being classed as a Thriller, this movie is really a Drama, and a slow burn at that. I don't think it was a bad film, I can give it at most 6 stars out of ten. I even got emotional at one point. But in general this film way too slow paced for me, and could have definitely been shortened. It may have been more effective that way, but that's just me.
The morale of this story is to be careful travelling in any part of the world that's off road, off map. Stick to the main road and maps always. Plan ahead. Have emergency provisions always. Have back ups of everything. Use a clear, sensible head in all decision making, and of course tell someone not travelling with you, where you intend on going.
The main characters in this film made a series of very poor decisions, and were way in over their heads. This is what truly lead to their crisis.
As an Aussie, this film didn't cause me any suspense, and there was some inaccuracy regarding a route of locations mentioned. The cinematography was beautiful, though. That was probably the highlight of the film for me.
Old People (2022)
Interesting, supernatural thriller
I found the concept of this movie to be very interesting, and I think the execution was done well. It's left me contemplative afterwards to say the least.
I would describe this as a supernatural thriller. The suspense kept me hooked, and the air of mystery surrounding what unfolds is also intriguing.
A word of advice though - if you are going to watch this movie, make sure that you do so with subtitles, and the original German audio playing. Because the dubbing that is offered is terrible, and should be avoided at all costs, unless you want the movie to be more of a comedy.
Lastly this is quite a violent film, not for the faint of heart.
Anyway, have a fun Halloween!
Salem (2014)
Excellent! What a hidden, underrated gem.
I only discovered this show by chance on the Disney Plus streaming service as I was looking for some horror content. This delivers more than that, it is incredible dark, drama, horror, fantasy series. I have almost finished the last season, and I can assuredly say, that never once in an episode or a season did I lose any interest. The story is so interesting, and the acting from all - fantastic. I highly recommend this to anyone who has a liking to dark dramas with horror and fantasy elements.
The 100: What You Take with You (2019)
Wow
This is an amazing episode regarding the story arc of Octavia, I love this so much. I am really impressed with the writing of this show. Octavia's character development has always been interesting in this show to me, so this was a very good episode.
V/H/S/2 (2013)
Feeling disappointed, preferred the first VHS
Last week I watched the first VHS movie. Though I had some criticisms, and going in I didn't expect much, to be honest, I came out really impressed by it. Some of the first VHS stories were very good, but what I particularly liked about it was the graphics, makeup and camera work.
This week I decided to watch VHS2. I admit I had high hopes. I was personally disappointed, as I feel it lacked this sense of it feeling real, and looking real, like the I experienced with the first VHS movie. I think it lacked the kind of graphics, makeup, camera work and directing that the first films in VHS 1 had that made it feel more real.
Having said all of this, if you are a fan of found footage horror, you may really like this, and you may like it more than the 1st. For anyone that this not familiar with the VHS movies, they are anthology horror movies. In VHS 2, I liked the concept of tape 2. Tape 3 was the only tape I really found to be done really well, I was really absorbed in it, damn a movie length film could be made about it. I only have one complaint about it, but can't say otherwise it would be a spoiler.
So all in all, I give this 5/10. It had promise, but I feel let down. However I wasn't bored, and I do think that there will be people out there that will like this film. I personally prefer the first VHS. But I haven't seen VHS Viral, so that will be interesting... but I won't be watching this one again.
Bloodride (2020)
Fun, horror anthology series!
I was looking for something new to watch, and I am a horror fan, so I was happy to see this new horror anthology series appear on Netflix. I found it very easy and fun to watch :) I didn't find it to be scary for me, but I personally don't need horror to be to enjoy it. I liked each different short story, so much so that 6 episodes wasn't enough for me! I really hope there will be a second season.
The Goop Lab (2020)
Harmful pseudoscience, and unfounded claims. Do not watch.
I do not recommend watching this at all. I am so disappointed and saddened that Netflix has given this air time. I hope it will be taken down asap. This series and company/brand "Goop" promotes harmful pseudoscience, and unfounded claims. Please do your research and stay safe.
Chambers (2019)
Pleasantly surprized!
To be honest, when I first saw the trailer for this show, I was skeptical if it would be watchable. I thought maybe it would be corny. But as I gave the series a go, I found myself glued to the screen the whole way through. I didn't lose interest at all. It didn't scare me, but the suspense was good throughout, the story-line had me engaged, and there was promising acting; I developed some attachment for a couple of the characters. What else I really liked about this show too, is that it is the first Netflix series to have a Native American woman as the lead, and her performance was excellent. Overall, if you like suspenseful, supernatural and mystery themes in television, I recommend giving this show a try. Hopefully it will intrigue you as much as it did me!
Santa Clarita Diet (2017)
10/10
I love this show so much! It's really fun and makes me laugh <3 Such a unique show and I love a dark comedy! The actors have great chemistry with each other as well which makes the show work really well. Drew Barrymore and Timothy Olyphant are especially good in this! I can't wait for another season :) I hope you enjoy this show as much as me!
The Rain (2018)
I'm surprized by the poor reviews this show is receiving!
To be honest, I really love this show <3
Though there aren't many episodes (alas), I consider the character development to be very good. There were some moments that I really connected with that stirred a lot of emotion inside me. I really hope that there will be a second season of this.
I will say though, that when I watched the first episode, I was put off quite a lot and didn't have high expectations. I think this was mainly due to the fact that I was watching the English dubbed version (that was NOT good in my opinion at all. Holy moly). As soon as began watching it in Danish with English subtitles, it was SOOOO much better ^_^ I felt true relief haha.
So to anyone who gives this show a go, I highly recommend watching it with subtitles (unless you speak/understand Danish ^_^), and to watch past the first episode.
I hope you guys enjoy it as much as I have been xox