jeff-gibson-835-273379 Reviews

Snack Shack (2024)

Nostalgic, hilarious, and moving

[9/10 · 17 March 2024]

I knew very little about this movie before sitting down to watch it, I saw a trailer a while back and made a mental note to check it out. I. So happy I decided to watch it. You can't help but enjoy the performances of the two leads, it's easy to believe that they are best friends by the camaraderie they share. Excellent job by the actors - I didn't know either of them, but can't wait to see what they do next. Their bond is the backbone of the story - along with a great per by a young lady (also unknown to me) - combined, these actors take you back to the 1990s, and revisit a slightly more innocent time. There is a lot of fun with period references, but if you don't know them you still enjoy the ride.

There is a bit a formula in the script, but really, it just plain works. I was not the only person in the audience who was laughing out loud many, many times, and then wiping aside tears at extremely moving final scenes. This movie is one that is worthy of your time - don't miss it.

Poor Things (2023)

Warnings aside, just enjoy the ride!

[9/10 · 22 January 2024]

High rating, I know, but keep in mind this movie is not for everyone. Nudity, profanity, quirkiness - and then a scene with Emma Stone and Mark Ruffalo that made me decide to stop being nervous about the situation it seemed to be making fun of, and just accept whatever was thrown at me. So funny, smart and ultimately a full arch of characters. Several great performances, and a cast that put a lot of faith into the production. Everyone is going for broke - and if nothing else, you have to love their fearlessness. Emma Stone continues to impress me so much, and even Willem Dafoe can surprise you after all these years. One of the best movies I've seen in a decade!

Saltburn (2023)

The Talented Mr. Quick

[7/10 · 26 November 2023]

There are a lot of things to love about this movie: visually gorgeous, great ensemble acting and a standout performance by the lead, wonderfully retro direction that gave scenes plenty of time, and more. But one thing distracted me over and over - I've seen it all before in The Talented Mr. Ripley. Sure, some specific incidents are new to this version, but the overall theme, mood, and delivery matches practically scene for scene. Theree is a lot to really like in Saltburn, and I hope no one's review here will deter anyone from seeing the mesmerizing performance of Barry Keoghan (The Banshees of Inisherin). His final scene is crazily over the top, but everything before is beautifully crafted and subtly executed. He's someone to keep an eye on.

Talk to Me (I) (2022)

Talk To Me, if you can handle it

[9/10 · 30 July 2023]

Most horror movies seem to be cut from the same mold, but Talk To Me is an original. Right from the start, you are thrust into the action - and a creepy feeling that things just aren't right. This movie doesn't let up, and it doesn't stop defying what we have all come to expect from horror movies. Talk to Me will do more than just shock you (as most horror movies all do). This movie brings family, friends, and even strangers into the complex web the protagonist (Mia) is dealing with. No spoilers here: the absolute best way to watch Talk to Me is by getting to the theater without a clue about what to expect!. Then hold on!!!

Past Lives (2023)

Finally, a return to taking your time.

[9/10 · 5 July 2023]

This movie is slow, but it is also wonderful. If you are patient (and remember when patience paid off in movies), you will see characters develop, meaningful scenes, and heart pounding drama enfold through this beautiful movie. The last scene is still in my head, it was so true and beautiful. Very honest - painfully so, at times - the director takes you on a journey through choices, regrets, and reality that will hit home with all of us.

It isn't that often anymore that I am reminded of the "art house" movies of the previous decade (or longer); this movie especially reminded me of the wonderfully delicate "Japanese Story", with Toni Collette, where the actors were given the space and time to really let their character's emotions sink in. I felt that often during "Past Lives", but especially during the last 30 minutes. One honest moment kept coming - sometimes as a great surprise - after another, making a complete story unfold. Treat yourself to a movie that has something to say.

No Hard Feelings (2023)

So funny, so heartfelt, so funny

[8/10 · 24 June 2023]

The trailer for this movie made me want to see it...cautiously. It made me wonder if the best parts were in the trailer, and maybe not a lot else was in the actual movie. Happy to report that the movie quickly dispels that caution in the first scene! I laughed out loud so many times I can't remember. Jennifer Lawrence is excellent, as always. The movie is a little rocky at first, but I think that's because we don't know where it's going, and aren't sure if it is going to be some exploitative thing where it's really not funny. But after we get over that, the movie rolls along with laughs, twists, incredibly moving moments, and a final scene that allowed to leave with a huge smile! You gotta try this movie - I loved it!