ddony-08622 Reviews

Alien vs. Predator (2004)

I will file a complaint against the directors and producers

[1/10 · 7 June 2024]

I recently watched "Alien vs Predator" and it was the longest 1 hour 50 minutes of my life. This film is, without a doubt, a real disaster.

The Xenomorphs and Predators, supposed to be the emblematic creatures of two cult franchises, are here reduced to ridiculous caricatures. Their menace and aura of terror are completely negated by mediocre special effects and bland fight scenes.

The acting is equally disappointing. Despite the presence of Lance Henriksen, who shone in the first two "Alien" films, the general performance of the cast leaves a lot to be desired. The dialogues are flat and lack depth, making the characters unbelievable and boring.

The script is simply bad, with a poorly put together and predictable plot. There is no tension, no suspense, which is a shame for a film of this type. The action scenes, supposed to be the strong point of this type of film, are poorly choreographed and devoid of dynamism.

Visually, the film is a total failure. The settings are uninspiring and the special effects, far from enhancing the whole thing, further drive home the point. The overall aesthetic of the film is bland and not very eye-catching.

In summary, "Alien vs Predator" is a disappointment across the board. I strongly advise you not to waste your time with this turnip. This film does neither fans of the "Alien" saga nor those of "Predator" justice.

Prometheus (I) (2012)

Why move away from other films ?

[3/10 · 3 June 2024]

I must make my mea culpa and apologize. Yesterday I harshly criticized the film Alien: Covenant, part of the Alien film series. Alien: Covenant is the direct sequel to Prometheus. Before giving such a strong opinion, it is crucial to watch the previous film to better understand the continuity of the plot. As a result, before judging Alien: Covenant, I should have watched Prometheus. Today, after seeing Prometheus, I realized that Alien: Covenant actually suffered from the narrative choices of its predecessor.

Prometheus isn't a bad movie per se. It is captivating, with a well-crafted storyline and stunning visuals. However, this film is meant to fit into the universe of the Alien films. When we try to link it to the other parts of the saga, Prometheus greatly disappoints.

Prometheus tells the story of researchers searching for the origins of humanity, seeking to discover its creator. This film marks a complete break with the other films in the Alien series. There is almost no Alien, except for the end where a creature vaguely similar to those from the previous films appears.

To appreciate this film, you have to forget that it is part of the Alien franchise. Prometheus could have been interesting if its sequel, Alien: Covenant, was also interesting. Unfortunately, it is not the case. I was deeply disappointed by Ridley Scott, the director of the first Alien. Moreover, the title of the film does not include the term "Alien", settling for "Prometheus", which further accentuates this absurd desire to move away from the basic story. I don't understand why Ridley Scott didn't choose to make a film on the origin of the Xenomorphs, preferring to give us a reflection on the origin of humanity.

I could have given this film a good rating, but I cannot ignore that it is supposed to be part of the Alien saga. So, I am forced to give it a negative rating. Honestly, to enjoy this film, you have to forget that it's supposed to be an Alien. Taken in isolation, Prometheus is not bad, as long as you don't associate it with the other films in the series.

Alien: Covenant (2017)

I exclude this film from the Alien Films series

[2/10 · 2 June 2024]

Alien: Covenant left me with a bitter taste of disappointment. Contrary to what I expected, this film does not seem to follow the emblematic lineage of the first opuses of the Alien series. The franchise's early films were works of suspense and horror, focusing on the exploration of existential themes and psychological horror. They were notable for their oppressive atmosphere, mounting tension, and protagonists facing anxiety and terror in the face of the unknown.

The original Alien, directed by Ridley Scott, introduced the terrifying concept of a hostile alien organism, stalking and killing the crew of a spaceship with merciless cruelty. This film established the foundation of the franchise, skillfully blending science fiction with horror to create a gripping cinematic experience.

Sequels, notably James Cameron's Aliens, expanded the universe by introducing new characters and further developing the Alien threat. These films maintained the intensity and angst of the first installments while offering additional elements of action and suspense.

However, Alien: Covenant seems to have lost sight of this effective approach, despite being directed by Ridley Scott. The film seems to prefer to focus on visual aspects and special effects, to the detriment of the narrative depth and emotional impact that characterized the first installments of the series. In doing so, it betrays the legacy of the previous films by dismissing what made the series successful and attractive. I sincerely hope that future films in the franchise will return to the path that made them famous, reintroducing the elements that made the first installments so memorable and exploring deeper and more relevant themes.

The Predator (2018)

The directors should apologize

[3/10 · 1 June 2024]

Without a doubt, we are in the presence of the worst Predator in history, the one released in 2018. For this series of films, I generally just rate. But today I want to leave a warning. If you haven't seen this movie yet, save yourself the trouble. It's a cinematic trainwreck devoid of interest. I would have given it a zero without hesitation, but I only give it a two for two humorous moments. Predator films generally aim to capture the essence of suspense and action, featuring confrontations between humanity and fearsome aliens. Unfortunately, this 2018 version seems to have completely missed the mark.

The Hate U Give (2018)

Rule #1: When faced with a police officer, remember that you are black

[7/10 · 26 May 2024]

"The Hate U Give" is a powerful and relevant film that delicately addresses crucial subjects such as systemic racism, police violence and inequality social issues facing the African-American community.

The film, based on the novel of the same name by Angie Thomas, highlights the perspectives of black and white youth on the world, as well as the specific challenges of African-American neighborhoods facing the threat of gangs.

The story follows Starr Carter, played by a remarkable Amandla Stenberg, who navigates between two worlds: her predominantly white private school and her black neighborhood. This constant duality in Starr's life is poignant, as she must constantly juggle between not appearing too "ghetto" to her white peers and not being perceived as too white in her neighborhood.

The film also depicts how African-American parents educate their children about the dangers of interacting with police. These scenes, where parents teach their children to be harmless towards the police to avoid violence, are of considerable emotional intensity and illustrate a painful reality.

The performances of the actors are exceptional, notably those of Regina Hall, KJ Apa, Sabrina Carpenter and especially Russell Hornsby, who delivers a majestic performance as Starr's father. Each actor manages to convey authentic emotions, making the film all the more impactful and moving.

Although "The Hate U Give" may not achieve the fame of other works dealing with segregation like "Bayard Rustin" or "The Path of Justice", it remains a must-see film. It offers a profound reflection on social and racial injustices, while remaining accessible and touching. I highly recommend it, because it will captivate and move any viewer.

He Got Game (1998)

Our success makes others unhappy

[8/10 · 25 May 2024]

"He Got Game" is a film directed by Spike Lee, starring Denzel Washington, recognized as one of the best actors of all time, and Ray Allen, NBA legend. In this film, Ray Allen plays Jesus Shuttlesworth, a young basketball prodigy, while Denzel Washington plays his father, Jake Shuttlesworth, who is imprisoned for accidentally killing his wife.

The main plot revolves around Jake, who is offered a reduced sentence if he can convince his son to enroll at the university chosen by the governor. This proposal places Jesus at the center of multiple influences, coming from his coach, his uncle, his girlfriend and many other people interested in his future.

The film highlights the hypocrisy of those around Jesus, each seeking to take advantage of his potential success rather than genuinely caring about his well-being. Ray Allen delivers an impressive performance, portraying the internal conflicts of his character, torn between his family responsibilities, his personal ambitions and his resentment towards his father.

Denzel Washington, true to his reputation, offers a masterful performance, capturing with intensity the complex nuances of his character. Ray Allen, although mainly known for his sporting exploits, surprises with his acting talent, succeeding in authentically conveying Jesus' varied emotions.

"He Got Game" is a captivating film, rich in emotions and reflections on family dynamics, societal expectations and the quest for redemption. It's a work of cinema that deserves to be seen, not only for its remarkable performances, but also for its profound exploration of human motivations.

The Help (2011)

Our skin color is different, but we all have red hearts

[9/10 · 24 May 2024]

"The Help" is a poignant film that immerses the viewer in the segregationist era of the United States. Unlike other works focused on civil rights activists, this film offers a unique perspective by following the lives of African American housekeepers who not only handle domestic chores but also raise the children of their white employers.

The film highlights the complex and often cruel cycle of the relationship between black female employees and their white female bosses. The latter, often raised by black nannies, in turn become the bosses of these women, thus perpetuating a cycle of dependence and domination.

Through the eyes of these women, the film explores the varying attitudes towards segregation: some of the servants feel hatred for their employers, others indifference, and some even develop an attachment to the children they raise. As for white women, some perpetuate the racial prejudices instilled by their parents, while others retain affection for their nannies or silently revolt against the injustices they observe.

The plot centers on the courageous decision of these women to participate in the writing of a book revealing their experiences, their journeys and their dreams, in search of justice and dignity.

The performances of Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer are remarkable. Davis plays a gentle and resilient servant, avoiding conflict, while Spencer plays a more combative and determined woman. Emma Stone shines in the role of a young white woman sensitive to racial inequalities, eager to denounce them through writing. Bryce Dallas Howard, for her part, excels in the role of the antagonist, playing a contemptuous and openly racist boss, a character we love to hate.

The entire cast is excellent, with each actor bringing depth and nuance to their character, revealing the various perspectives and attitudes towards racial segregation.

"The Help" is a film that is both moving and edifying, which encourages reflection on human relationships and social injustices. I highly recommend it.

Borat (2006)

A humor that can no longer exist

[8/10 · 15 April 2024]

Among all the comedy films I've seen, none has managed to make me laugh as much as Borat. Every scene is a masterpiece of humor. Sacha Baron Cohen delivers a remarkable performance, his ability to embody the character of Borat is incomparable However, it is unfortunate that this type of comedy is no longer possible today, given that it explores risky territories in terms of Borat clichés. Transcends mere entertainment to become a biting satire, brilliantly exposing the absurd prejudices that persist in our society. This film may not be for everyone, but I highly recommend it for those who appreciate intelligent and subversive humor.

The Book of Eli (2010)

A Quest to spread the Good Word

[7/10 · 13 April 2024]

The Book of Eli": "Contrary to what one might think, "The Book of Eli" is not limited solely to Christian religious themes, although they are present through references to faith The film offers a captivating experience, combining action and a fast pace that constantly keeps the viewer's attention.

The performances of the actors, notably those of Denzel Washington and Gary Oldman, are remarkable, which. Is hardly surprising. Denzel masterfully plays a faith-driven traveler on his quest to find a sanctuary to deposit the Bible. He is tormented by both his desire to fulfill his mission and his desire to help others. On the other hand, Gary Oldman plays a complex antagonist, ready to do anything to obtain the book held by Denzel, claiming to want to share his knowledge with the world, but raising doubts about his true intentions.

Jennifer Beals delivers a solid performance despite a time. Limited screen time, but Mila Kunis, unfortunately, fails to convince in her role. His interpretation does not seem adequate for this type of character and does not add much to Denzel Washington's quest.

All in all, "The Book of Eli" is a must-see film, offering a thrilling cinematic experience and memorable performances.

The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021)

This film brilliantly pays homage to the work of William Shakespeare

[8/10 · 12 April 2024]

The Tragedy of Macbeth brilliantly brings together cinema's greatest actor and actress in a breathtaking adaptation of the work of William Shakespeare.

The choice of black and white gives the film a timeless atmosphere, plunging viewers into the heart of this ancient story of the quest for power.

Frances McDormand brilliantly embodies the role of Lady Macbeth, once again demonstrating her undeniable talent, although her fame among young audiences is not as great as it deserves, despite her numerous awards.

As for Denzel Washington in the role of Macbeth, his performance is simply masterful. He once again proves his ability to play a variety of roles, and his lack of an Oscar for this role is a disappointment. His choice of role demonstrates his versatility and undeniable talent.

The ensemble performance of the actors and actresses, as well as the staging, create a captivating theatrical atmosphere which truly transports the spectator to the stage.

Although the complexity of the plot may make the film difficult to follow for some, one need not be familiar with Shakespeare's original work to appreciate this cinematic masterpiece. Despite its dated aesthetic, the fast pace of the story demands sustained attention, but the experience is well worth it.

Rustin (2023)

A hero for equality, but who has always been in the shadows

[10/10 · 5 April 2024]

I have just finished the film Bayard Rustin, and I must say that it had a profound impact on me. This exceptional film highlights an often overlooked but nevertheless essential character in the history of civil rights. When we recall the famous 1963 march on Washington, we realize that behind Martin Luther King's emblematic speech lies the inspiring shadow of Bayard Rustin. It was he who conceived and organized this historic event, while often remaining in the shadows. Bayard Rustin had to face two major challenges throughout his life: that of surviving as a Black man in a discriminatory society, and that of surviving as a homosexual man, doubly stigmatized. Despite these obstacles, he always retained a fighting spirit and unwavering determination to defend the oppressed and work for justice. The film offers a gripping portrait of this remarkable man, whose life and actions deserve greater recognition. Colman Domingo delivers an extraordinary performance as Bayard Rustin, and it is regrettable that he was not rewarded at the Oscars for his masterful performance. Although the life of Bayard Rustin is often overlooked, this film deserves a wider audience, particularly among those interested in the fight against discrimination and the quest for equal rights. Overall, I highly recommend this film to anyone who wishes to become informed and aware of historical struggles for social justice.

Good Will Hunting (1997)

The most beautiful film

[10/10 · 4 April 2024]

"Will Hunting" deserves an unqualified 10/10. This film is a perfect work, from start to finish, and remains the most magnificent I have had the privilege of seeing in my entire life. While it may not be my favorite or the best, it embodies pure beauty. Its poignant story follows a young man from poverty, marked by abuse and abandonment, whose only precious legacy is his intelligence. Matt Damon delivers an exceptional performance. Each character is brilliantly interpreted, starting with Damon himself as a withdrawn genius, afraid of love and attachment, but finding refuge in friendship. Stellan Skarsgård deftly plays the jealous professor, but sincerely wishes for Will's success, while Robin Williams, as the psychologist, gives a moving performance as he seeks to guide Will toward self-understanding. Minnie Driver brings emotional depth as Will's girlfriend, navigating between jealousy and unconditional love. Will's friends, played by Ben Affleck, Casey Affleck and Cole Hauser, embody genuine camaraderie and unwavering support for his aspirations. This film captures the human spirit in all its complexity and beauty. With each viewing, the emotion is palpable, and each character, impeccably written, aspires to a single goal: to see Will succeed in life. Will Hunting is a true cinematic marvel that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of its spectators.

Someone, Somewhere (2019)

One story, two experiences

[7/10 · 3 April 2024]

"Deux Moi" is another remarkable example of contemporary French cinema. This film presents a captivating dual story, featuring two individuals seeking solace in their tumultuous lives, but unable to meet despite their proximity as neighbors. Rémy Pelletier, brilliantly played by François Civil, isolates himself while Mélanie Brunet, played by Ana Girardot, desperately seeks happiness through fleeting encounters. The contrast between their approaches skilfully underlines the complexity of human relationships.

The pace of the film is perfectly suited to the subject matter, with a deliberately slow pace that allows for in-depth exploration of the characters and their emotions. However, although François Civil's interpretation is impeccable, I remain mixed about the acting of Ana Girardot, whose style fails to convince me. Despite this, Civil continues to shine with his nuanced interpretation of a man in the grip of depression, confirming his status as a talented actor in French cinema.

In conclusion, "Deux Moi" is a remarkable film that should not be missed. Its sensitive exploration of themes of isolation and the search for human connection makes it a captivating and deeply moving work. I highly recommend it to all fans of French cinema looking for an enriching cinematic experience.

The Forbidden Kingdom (2008)

I wish I was the one to fulfill the prophecy

[8/10 · 2 April 2024]

In all honesty, I must admit that my opinion will probably be tinged with bias. Jet Li had a profound impact on my childhood; after all, he is my favorite actor after Denzel Washington. Having always been passionate about Kung-fu films, the announcement of the collaboration between Jet Li and Jackie Chan in "The Forbidden Kingdom" instantly transported me to the excitement of my childhood memories.

In this cinematic masterpiece, Michael Angarano had the incredible opportunity to receive training from two living legends: Jet Li and Jackie Chan. The story, although simple, takes us on a captivating journey where a young man finds himself thrown into the past to fulfill a prophecy by returning a cane decorated with a bronze monkey to the Monkey King.

Let's face it, the acting of Michael Angarano and Liu Yifei leaves something to be desired, but Jet Li and Jackie Chan definitely manage to raise the level. Their humor is impeccable, and their martial arts prowess is breathtaking, testament to their true expertise in the field. Special mention also to Li Bingbing, who brilliantly plays the role of the witch.

"The Forbidden Kingdom" is pure visual pleasure; it offers us quality entertainment without downtime. I highly recommend it to all fans of action cinema and Kung-fu.

47 Ronin (2013)

Honor or dishonor is not in the sword, but in the hand that grips it

[7/10 · 31 March 2024]

The film "47 Ronin" is a masterful work that immerses viewers in Japan's glorious past through the story of 47 men of unparalleled bravery and pride, determined to defend the honor of their Daimyo and their own own. This feature film transcends simple fight scenes to explore rich themes such as duty, forbidden love and identity. The pace of the film is perfectly controlled, alternating between moments of introspective calm and thrilling action sequences. Hiroyuki Sanada delivers a remarkable performance, brilliantly embodying the role of a samurai devoted to his code of honor. Likewise, Keanu Reeves impresses with his sobriety and authenticity in his interpretation. Tadanobu Asano and Rinko Kikuchi round out the cast brilliantly, although some fantastical creatures may seem out of place in this historically grounded tale. Despite this, the ending of the film remains faithful to the very essence of the story of the 47 Ronin, avoiding any temptation to romanticize or modify the tragic outcome of these heroes. Their fate, sealed by seppuku, bears witness to their ultimate sacrifice to preserve their honor and that of their master, thus providing a poignant and memorable conclusion.

Five (I) (2016)

Thank you François Civil

[6/10 · 30 March 2024]

"Five" is the second French film I had the pleasure of seeing this year, and once again, I was pleasantly surprised. After "An Ideal Man", I dove into the world of Igor Gotesman's comedy/thriller. The film tells the story of five childhood friends who share the dream of living under the same roof, but things go wrong. I'm going to refrain from revealing any spoilers, but I want to highlight the beautiful exploration of love and friendship, sometimes stronger than family bonds.

This is my second film with Pierre Niney, which I still find excellent. Although I found him less convincing in this role, I discovered another remarkable actor in the person of François Civil. Known by name, but new to me on the big screen, he knew how to captivate my attention. His impeccable interpretation of a funny but complex character particularly appealed to me.

The diversity of characters within the group of friends is remarkable: Pierre Niney embodies the rock on whom we can always count, François Civil brings the comic touch, Margot Bancilhon imposes her authority, Igor Gotesman takes on the role of the manager, and Idrissa Harnot subtly plays the shy guy who knows how to put himself forward at the right time. Every viewer can identify with one of these eclectic characters.

Although Pierre Niney and François Civil dominate the screen, the other cast members, like Fanny Ardant, Pascal Demolon and Hedi Bouchenafa, all add their own dose of humor to the film. "Five" offers a captivating blend of suspense and humor, with some memorable moments, especially thanks to the hilarious appearances of François Civil.

I highly recommend this film for an entertaining evening, but I advise watching it with friends rather than family, due to some scenes that could be awkward. In any case, I am delighted to have discovered this cinematic gem.

M3GAN (2022)

A horror film for children

[3/10 · 29 March 2024]

M3GAN is billed as a sci-fi horror film, but unfortunately, it fails to deliver the expected thrills. In reality, it is a failed version of Chucky, more suited to a young audience. Nothing in this film is worth keeping, and watching it turns out to be a big waste of time. The total lack of suspense and the story that has already been seen many times makes it a film devoid of emotion. The acting is rather average, disappointing in particular the performance of Allison Williams, although brilliant in Get Out. The film could have taken a more interesting direction by focusing more on science fiction. As a horror film, M3GAN is a complete failure, never managing to elicit even a thrill. Despite the laudatory reviews, it unfortunately falls in line with new horror films that struggle to captivate their audience. It is increasingly rare to find a true masterpiece in this genre.

A Perfect Man (2015)

Pleasantly surprised

[7/10 · 28 March 2024]

As a spectator who is not particularly adept at the new French cinematic genre, I was pleasantly surprised by the film "Un Homme Ideal". Well anchored in the French style, the film begins slowly, but its rise in emotional intensity is remarkable. The plot is captivating, reminiscent of the subtle suspense of David Koepp's "Secret Window" with Johnny Depp. Pierre Niney delivers a remarkable performance, managing to transcend and express every emotional nuance of his character. The pace of the film is impeccable, every moment is thrilling. However, the main flaw lies in the development of the secondary characters. Although important to the plot, they sometimes seem to be there simply to fill an acting quota, without contributing much on an emotional level. The character of Thibault Vinçon (Stan) could have been better exploited, unlike that of Marc Barbé (Vincent) who benefited from more in-depth treatment. What stands out above all is that the film is not limited to a simple confrontation between a victim (you will understand the meaning of the quotation marks) and his blackmailer, but explores the twists and turns of the conscience of a man trapped in his desire for recognition. It is possible that the lack of development of the secondary characters was intentional, in order to highlight the brilliant acting of Pierre Niney. Ultimately, "An Ideal Man" is a captivating thriller that deserves to be seen for its palpable tension and remarkable acting performances.

Red Eye (2005)

Almost a children's film

[4/10 · 27 March 2024]

The film started off pretty well. We had a rather simple plot, but after that it became meaningless. I felt like I was watching a children's film. The game was getting worse and worse. Unfortunately, I was very disappointed with this film. The role of Rachel McAdams fit perfectly with these roles of the time, in cinema for pre-teens. For Cillian Murphy, his game was quite good at the start, but when there is physical action, he is out of his element and it showed. The film is quite watchable, but if you want to have a good time, it's best to avoid it. It's a film to watch when you have nothing to watch.