ThisIsMovieMadness Reviews

Agent Recon (2024)

This is what failure looks like

[1/10 · 22 June 2024]

There's something to be said about a truly disastrous film, a film forever indelible in your memory because it's so uniquely bad, it can only be deemed an achievement. The sort of film where everyone involved was definitely trying to do something; it's just not entirely clear what. Agent Recon is that film.

How do you mess up this badly when you have Chuck Norris? Chuck Norris deserved better than this. Not sure where they found that lead, but he is a complete buffoon. This film is an insult to Chuck Norris and deeply upsetting to his fans.

There is nothing good to be said about this film, except that Agent Recon is a good example of bad filmmaking.

The Assistant (III) (2019)

Subtle Day in the Life

[7/10 · 3 June 2024]

The Assistant is a muted, tight story that is more of a message than a movie. The main character is played by Ozark's Julia Garner as she carries about her mundane workday, beginning in the early hours of the morning until the late night, serving the demands of a powerful, unseen boss. She has to tidy up after him, bring his food, and hide the signs of questionable encounters he's having with women subordinates, which everyone else in the office seems to have accepted as the norm. Garner is fantastic and convincing in a role that is mostly non-verbal and the audience can see the tension she endures on a regular basis with no end in sight. It subtly reveals how this type of behavior can happen as an open secret and not be addressed.

The Crown (2016–2023)

Season 1 best, final seasons got worse

[7/10 · 18 December 2023]

The Crown early seasons were my favorite seasons. Season 1 in particular was spectacular as it followed a young Princess Elizabeth who later becomes Queen due to extraordinary circumstances. She didn't expect it at the young age of 25. She never has a normal life afterwards and has to learn confidence. In season 2, we see how it affects the family, particularly Princess Margaret.

Seasons 3-4 had some of my favorite casts. Olivia Coleman did a magnificent job portraying The Queen as strong. This is the peak of the writing for The Crown.

In later seasons, we see Princess Diana getting the spotlight. There were some strange cast choices, such as Prince Harry.

Overall, it's an entertaining show inspired by true events, although the dialogue is not really historically accurate.

Silo (2023– )

Slow start, solid ending

[7/10 · 3 November 2023]

I was not engaged in the first few episodes because the storyline was a bit of a bore. I ended up taking a break and then came back to watching this later. The storyline definitely gets better when everything comes together in the later episodes. You do have to be attentive from start to finish. Then it will all make sense. I can see that some of the bad reviews are from viewers who stopped around episode 4, but you have to watch past those episodes to get to the interesting parts. The final episode is a solid cliff hanger that leaves you in suspense. For the most part, Silo is one of the better shows that I have seen in this genre.

Old (2021)

Intriguing concept with average writing

[5/10 · 24 May 2023]

I thought the idea was interesting enough, although the writing, directing and acting were average. The camera work is acceptable and aligns with the unique plot. However, the dialogue is somewhat forced at times and the pacing of the story feels awkward. The characters repeatedly give expository commentaries about what's going on like a sportscast play-by-play, which feels unnatural and distracting. The actors did the best the could, which is commendable.

The camera angles and filming methods occasionally come across as weird.

Regardless of these weaknesses, Old does accomplish its mission as an exciting and terrifying suspense film. The setting on the beach is both eerie and beautiful.

The ambiance is suspenseful and the concept is enticing enough to give it a one time watch.

The Menu (2022)

Delicious serving of dark comedy

[8/10 · 8 February 2023]

It is not often that a film is so controversial that it divides audiences. The Menu not only divides the audience on the basis of taste, but on self-awareness. The story is a portrayal of a artist chef who is running an upscale Michelin-level restaurant on an island that serves the cultural, social, and technological elite by presenting a special menu that allows guests to indulge in an experience unlike anywhere in the world. The film cleverly and uncomfortably depicts the insane world of an artist in pursuit of perfection to a thankless group of wealthy entitled patrons. The film captures the frustration nicely of such a unpleasant and pleasant atmosphere at the same time. Those in the audience who side with the patrons in the film will squirm while watching as it shines a light on their own choices. And, those who side with the chef team can find some peace that their pain is understood, through the scenes in this film. This fact alone makes The Menu a delicious gem. The cast was fantastic. Anya Taylor Joy is a joy to watch and the personification of naïveté and the middle-finger. Absolutely crushing and confusing ending keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Triangle of Sadness (2022)

Witty film

[9/10 · 8 February 2023]

Triangle of Sadness is a darkly humorous film that upends the patriarchy into a ludicrous befitting situation. The story has a genius twist and and an intense ending worth experiencing. This film is a strong recommend, but as a warning in advance, it does take about fifteen minutes to warm up and begin to unfold. Overall, the film is a relevant social commentary on the power struggle of classes and the dangers of capitalism. The backdrop of a luxurious cruise as a controlled environment allows the themes to unfold nicely. The film introduces the tricky dialogue of many taboo but important topics in modern society and includes thoughtful warnings on the increasing wealth gap and changing gender roles. This is a movie that commands your attention and pontification.

Black Adam (2022)

Heinous

[4/10 · 3 February 2023]

Black Adam is steadfastly average for a superhero/supervillain movie. There were many places where the story was obviously weak due to lazy writing, which contributed to an overall plot that was predictable and boring. Some scenes were downright goofy and cringe. The fight scenes were actually decent and the final fight scene better. But as a villain origin story compared to the hero origin story Man of Steel, this movie was a miss.

The Rock portrayed Black Adam adequately, but I don't think this role really suits him. He is best as the comedic hero that everyone is rooting for. Black Adam is a darker villain, so his acting style doesn't really align. That said, he did do a decent job, but by comparison to its closest counterpart, Man of Steel, this movie just felt like a lesser experience.

Firestarter (2022)

Don't do this

[3/10 · 3 February 2023]

A masterclass in what not to do. This film was extremely disappointing. The trailers overpromised on horrors and the film completely undelivered. The dialogue between the father and the detective were superfluous and unnecessary. The ending was rushed and all of a sudden she is causing mass destruction everywhere. While I was a big fan of the original 1984 Drew Barrymore version as well as the original book, this version does not live up to the value of the story. This is a horrible Hollywood remake and nowhere near captures the delivery of the original '80s release. By starting in the middle of the movie, it becomes non-sensical. Just wasted potential.

Man of Steel (2013)

Super Superman hero story

[8/10 · 1 February 2023]

Man of Steel is a fantastically well-made, underrated superhero movie. I am not even a major fan of the Superman character since the comic book character is pretty cheesy, but this movie made me a fan. Man of Steel has a stellar cast, the action is intense, and the final act is climactically exciting. Henry Cavill is a phenomenal Superman. This telling of the story is accurate and spot on and also accessible to new fans of the franchise. Henry Cavill made fans fall in love with him as Clark Kent/Superman with his perfect performance. Zod is one of the best villains and is portrayed with evil perfection. The movie was written and filmed so well that I cannot think of a better way to tell the origin story of the Man of Steel. Most of all, this was a successful kick off to the DC Universe.

Chernobyl (2019)

Outstanding, emotional, frightening

[8/10 · 10 January 2023]

This series is an honorable depiction of the horrors experienced by the victims of this tragedy. Elegantly shot with intense camera imagination that slowly introduces the dread that will befall the characters in their difficult struggle to thread the needle between doing what is right and following orders. It is devastating and frustrating to witness the individual stories of the youth who were destroyed by this event and the old timers who brutally kept everything a secret regardless of the consequences on the surrounding people. The cast is excellent in character and believability. The urgency that is seamlessly woven into the spirit of the series summons the impending doom onto the viewer's screen in the most frightful way.

Glass Onion (2022)

Nice build up to a subpar ending

[5/10 · 5 January 2023]

The ending ruins the entire story. To make a comparison, the first film was much better. The positives: breath-taking cinematography, awesome setting, strong acting. The negatives: the movie feels like a money grab and a weak sequel to the original. This sequel doesn't have the same impact as the first and is quickly forgettable. The Mona Lisa part of the movie is actually annoying. The cameos and Easter eggs are hilarious and help add some personality, but they are obviously not enough to carry the film. The screenplay is abhorrent. The mystery was dumbed down to the point of being ridiculous and insulting. The big twist was so deflating.

Knives Out (2019)

Fantastic Whodunnit

[8/10 · 4 January 2023]

It is a spine-tingling murder mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end. Rian Johnson does a wondrous job of clever misdirection climaxing into a fulfilling payoff. The production is polished and exhibits a memorable style. Daniel Craig's main character is spot on and stylish. Ana de Armas as the demure nurse gives a superb performance. Chris Evans is perfect as the spoiled brat. The smart and sarcastic humor makes the movie titularly entertaining. The pace is fast and keeps going strong throughout every scene and reveal. The character interactions, dialogue, costumes, production design, and music are exceptional. Kudos to Rian Johnson as he takes complete control and artfully formulates what the audience should think.

1899 (2022)

Masterful and Mysterious

[8/10 · 8 December 2022]

1899 is one of the top shows on Netflix in 2022, if you have the patience. The pacing starts off very slow, however, the acting is strong, the directing is well done, and the visuals are convincing. With each new episode, additional clues are introduced that attach to the increasingly frustrating questions. The overall story is suspenseful and starts revving up midway through the series. Yet, the ending was a bit of a letdown. Regarding the cinematic style, the show strangles reality and it becomes confusing to know whether you and the characters are experiencing a nightmare or reality. Despite the fantastic acting, the story still feels empty of meaning. The viewer will need to steadfastly endure the first four episodes before the true impact of the plot begins revealing itself to the characters and the audience.

The Most Hated Man on the Internet (2022)

Cautionary tale of twisted people

[7/10 · 13 August 2022]

This documentary highlights the sad and unsettling reality that there are disturbed people who are completely not in touch with reality and will exploit anyone for personal attention. It is shocking that the legal framework is unable to protect innocent people.

Don't F**k with Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer (2019)

Under the radar brilliant

[8/10 · 26 July 2022]

I initially thought this was about cat videos. The title doesn't stand out, but this is one of the most disturbing, yet intriguing series I have seen. It is creepy that there are creeps out there with such twisted thinking.

The Boys (2019– )

A different superhero story

[6/10 · 9 July 2022]

An interesting plot with potential. Many superhero shows and movies are dull, but this one is intriguing. If you are yawning during The Avengers, The Boys will be a nice diversion. This is good adult entertainment.

The Umbrella Academy (2019–2024)

Spectacular weird show

[7/10 · 7 July 2022]

Umbrella Academy is one of the best shows. Awesome performances by all the cast. The series is a mix of emotions and moral values. The first season had me fully hooked, although the later seasons get weird. The time traveling makes the story complicated to follow, but the science fiction is spectacular.

Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019)

Mindless action and super fight scenes

[7/10 · 5 January 2022]

I had somewhat low expectations for this movie, but this surprisingly and greatly exceeded them. Spectacular balance of action and humor. The dynamic between the main characters was relatable, fresh, and believable, while adding an extra punch to the action genre. This movie was a fantastic display of what an action movie should be: lovable characters, stunning action, and a nice dose of humor.

Eternals (2021)

A different feel in a good way

[7/10 · 27 December 2021]

Eternals forges a new path different from previous superhero movies. Eternals is not perfect, but presents something fresh and different. It is an emotional sci-fi drama with superhero elements. If you expect the usual Marvel fireworks, you may be disappointed. This film is dense, heartfelt, and spontaneous in ways not seen in the MCU before, which is a good thing.

Don't Look Up (2021)

Top satire

[7/10 · 27 December 2021]

This movie really gets us thinking about the current state of the world we live in. The sad part is that if a comet or other disaster were to hit Earth, this movie would be the sad reality of what would probably happen. The politicians, technologists, celebrities, and more are well portrayed. This movie is not actually entertainment, but a warning.

The Witcher (2019– )

Authentic Adaptation

[7/10 · 21 December 2021]

Some book-to-television adaptations make changes to the detriment of the story. The Witcher show does not, which makes this a fantastic faithful series. Any deviations it makes from the books are smart and constructed to advance events the source material did not know about when they were written. The final scene in the last episode was almost a perfect match to the final chapter, which was heartwarming in both the book and series.

Attack on Titan (2013–2023)

Deeper meaning of humanity

[7/10 · 21 December 2021]

The story is amazing. It contains numerous plot twists and emotional scenes, which makes this truly an incredible anime. The characters and the soundtrack add to its excellence. There is much to love about this show, but a personal favorite is the action. The action is intense while also interesting. I recommend this show to anyone who loves emotional moments as well as action and plot twists in the most surprising of ways.

Gone Girl (2014)

What's wrong is right?

[8/10 · 21 December 2021]

This is a thinking movie and makes you question morality. The movie was intense and kept me on my feet. The story drew me into their world where I felt included in the drama. The few plot holes can be overlooked by masterful direction and acting.

Invincible (2021– )

I'm a Superfan

[10/10 · 24 June 2021]

How it started: Meh, another comic superhero show.

How it's going: The final scene in Episode 1 got me hooked!