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The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
Moving
STORY: This film has quite a unique story to it, which is always refreshing when signing up for a romantic film. The plot moves along speedily but with not too much haste. It brings you to the right places at the right times. I would say the climax in Amsterdam is a bit underwhelming. But there is a big unsuspecting twist that turns the movie nicely.
ACTING: The acting is pretty damn good in this movie. Woodley and elgort put on a pretty damn good show. Elgort's unrelenting confidence and charm pairs well with woodley's courage and sense of self. The parents are ok. The characters definitely come to life with these two mains though.
Mononoke-hime (1997)
Definitely Creative...
STORY: The movie isn't really centered around princess Mononoke, so that's kind of misleading. It's more focused on a poisoned warrior who is sent away from his hometown. The whole movie seems to be a metaphor for deforestation, industrialization and environmentalism. While the movie gets the point across, it's a bit on the nose. Along the way, there is endless creativity with characters and scenery, which is refreshing and reminds me of the true capabilities of anime. Overall it's a compelling enough story but not really surprising or eye opening.
ACTING: The English dubs of the movie were honestly my biggest qualm. I feel like Minnie driver and billy bob thorntons voices did not match the vibe of the characters at all. It was distracting. I recommend watching the movie in its original language with subtitles.
Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)
Visually stunning
This movie may be over 3 hours, but it is wholly captivating and enthralling. The cinematography and breathtaking visuals make 3 hours feel like 3 minutes. To be clear, it is the sheer awe created by the scenery and action that drives this movie, and not the story. The story is predictable and definitely plays second fiddle to the world of pandora and it's people. The action scenes are fantastic and exciting. It may be because the actors are portrayed as aliens, but the acting definitely feels real, and I was drawn in by their emotions and communication. It's hard not to feel for the Navi and their biosphere. Overall, a groundbreaking movie that builds off the first in a meaningful way.
Grease (1978)
Musically enthralling
The dancing and music are what steal the show here. Having grown up with an older sister, I've seen this movie far too many times. I recently rewatched it as it came on Netflix. As with many other old movies, there are a lot of things that wouldn't fly in today's landscape. With that context, it's still an entertaining and fun film. John Travolta is a phenomenal dancer, and you can't help but root for he and Sandy to end up together. The whole band of characters is well-written and complementary. The large choreographed dance scenes are well done and translate from Broadway well. Worth a rewatch for sure.
Middleditch & Schwartz (2020)
Uniquely hysterical
I've been anxiously awaiting the second season of this show, but it doesn't seem like it's going to happen. I thought this three episode jaunt was great. It was incredibly unique improv and stage humor that broke the mold of stand ups and comedy shows alike that you see on Netflix these days. Ben Schwartz is freaking hilarious. I loved him in parks and Rec, and this show allows his range to come through in full form. He's truly theatrical, and this was a perfect setting for him to showcase his talent. I hope this duo comes back in another format and that either Netflix decided it wasn't for them or there is another show in the works.
Dexter (2006)
First few seasons are gold
I watched this in 2021, and it was still a fantastic show, even with all the TV that is out today. It has compelling storylines and dark characters that keep you coming back episode after episode. There are several twists that are unpredictable. The first four seasons were fantastic, and after that, it definitely slipped in quality. Some of the guest stars, particularly the villains, are great actors and fit into the cast seamlessly. Michael C. Hall is perfectly strange and feels at home in this role. His sister is a bit less of a classic actress, but her personality grew on me, and she's a crowd favorite. Overall, a memorable show.
Being John Malkovich (1999)
Entertaining and hilarious
This movie is pretty gripping right from the get go, making the 2 hour feature film feel like 2 minutes. Wholly unpredictable, laugh out loud funny, and wild, Charlie Kaufman hits again with this original whacky, sci-fi dram com.
Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
More epic than the original
This is just an all around great movie. It's got laughs, tears, and gripping action. Tom Cruise is one of the best actors when not speaking of all time. He says so much with his facial expressions alone. "It's the only look I've got." My only qualm with the movie is how Rooster parrots way too many motivational lines back to Maverick. He could've stopped after one or two. Other than that, the F18 scenes are epic and a thrill ride.
Witness for the Prosecution (1957)
Dialogue crack
The dialogue in this movie is scintillating. Although there's relatively little action, constant flow of substantive dialogue keeps the viewer engaged throughout. There is also a constant flow of humor that makes the movie not so serious. With a fantastic ending, this movie puts an exclamation point on a classic.
Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
Impressive
Although it was definitely cheesy at parts, it was just impressive that they were able to get so many of the past Spider-Man actors and characters back in one movie. It made for a nostalgic and entertaining climax. Andrew Garfield is a phenomenal actor. He should do more.
This Is Us (2016)
What a ride
This show made me cry a handful of times. I don't think I can say that about any other TV show. Some movies for sure but no other TV show. This story and these characters are gripping. I'll never forget Randall's breakdown at the beginning or when Mandy Moore tells Miguel that jack died. Wow what a show.
American Psycho (2000)
A psychotic comedy rollercoaster
This movie might make you laugh out loud or cry or furrow your eyebrows or turn away. It's a masterclass in confusion and displays the complexity of human emotion well. I love the pointed jabs at Wall Street culture. Christian Bale is fantastic. We'll worth the watch.
Uncut Gems (2019)
Sensory circus
Fever dream, acid trip, sensory circus. These are just a few of the phrases that describe my experience during this movie. An absolutely overwhelming onslaught of chaotic scene after chaotic scene. Overall the movie is compelling and Sandler is captivating, but the movie left me feeling like I was trapped in a noisy room for two hours.
Don't Look Up (2021)
Funny and stark
Jonah hill is absolutely histerical in this movie. His and Jennifer Lawrence's chemistry is amazing. It is definitely a blatant call out of how government is not doing nearly enough to help climate change. Overall it's pretty funny and worth the watch.
West Side Story (2021)
Not the best musical movie in the past few years
When comparing this film to the likes of In the Heights and Hamilton, there's something lacking in terms of entertainment and excitement. The music in both other movies is far superior in my opinion. West Side Story's plot is swift when it should be slow and slow when it should be quick. I didn't think Maria and Tony had great chemistry either. It's heavy dancing if you're into that. Some of the dance scenes are pretty entertaining though. It plays as much more of a theatrical performance than some of the other recent musicals that have adapted well to the big screen.
King Richard (2021)
Will Smith steals the show
Will Smith was pretty fantastic as King Richard in this film. He alone is worth the watch. The movie focuses on the super early stages of Serena's and Venus's careers. I would've liked to see this as a short series because I left wanting to see more about how Venus and Serena continued to develop to where they are today. Overall, it was a solid movie, and I was engaged the entire time.
#BlackAF (2020)
Not great
This show never knew what it wanted to be. It seemed like a self-indulgent project by Barris. I liked the sets and wardrobe, but there was no content.
Shameless (2011)
Dark drama turned black comedy
This show started out as an emotional thrill ride that spiraled into a black comedy. I think it's fascinating how vastly this show changed over the years. Nonetheless, it had some great characters and moments throughout.
Tarzan (1999)
Classic Disney
Good music, classic storyline, and entertaining visuals. This movie is simple yet effective in its message that it's trying to deliver. Phil Collins makes some bangers for the soundtrack and O'Donnell shines as Turk.
Atypical (2017)
Genuine comedy!
This show's engine is fueled by Casey and Sam. Each of their stories are compelling, and the actors make them all the more powerful. A genuine comedy that ties in romance, inclusion, and relatable stories that make the audience laugh and feel throughout. Not a fan of the mom, but every show has a weak link. I will miss this show!
In the Heights (2021)
Pure entertainment
There is no doubt the singing, dancing, and overall visual appeal of the film is exquisite. The acting is also quite phenomenal. The only thing keeping this from being a masterpiece is the story. It is dull and lacks any real suspense. The musicality and production is the engine for this movie.
Fatherhood (2021)
Funny and emotional
This movie had me undulating between audible laughing and tear welling sadness. It's a little slow at the beginning, but once the kid grows up, the movie grabs you by the heartstrings and plays you like a puppet.
Bo Burnham: Inside (2021)
Fascinating. Compelling. Truth bomb.
I'm a huge bo burnham tan, and this did not disappoint. Although it is a borderline political commentary, which could turn a lot of people off, it is undeniably historical. It is introspective and incredibly impressive what no burnham was able to create by himself. This is pure entertainment.
Fargo (1996)
You betcha
Being from Minnesota, this movie is unreal. The amount of Minnesotan shoutouts and city name drops is fantastic. In true Coen brothers fashion, the movie is a slow burn with sarcastic dialogue throughout sprinkled with some crazy twist violence. Great film from beginning to end.
The Father (2020)
Hopkins is captivating
The Father is entrancing. It will keep you bewildered throughout, as Anthony Hopkins flashes his acting prowess. He keeps getting better with age. This movie is eerie and too real.