captainpat Reviews

The Dead Center (2018)

Masterful Storytelling and Stellar Performances

[7/10 · 10 May 2024]

Hat offs to Billy Senese for such a good film. The story kept me glued to the seat. I jumped. I got creeped. I didn't fast forward. The storyline was unique and it flowed. I got the creeps in the hospital.

The music and sound effects worked well. But what stood out for me was the acting. I didn't know any of the actors but they certainly got into character and very convincingly. Unless they were playing themselves (ahhh)

The casting director did an excellent job as the actors could take direction but more importantly the director knew how to direct them. I could not fault the acting, in fact it was so much better than many of the films I constantly fast forward. Well done Billy.

I didn't cringe. I didn't roll my eyes. I just wanted to know what was going to happen.

Well worth the seven stars I gave it.

House of Ninjas (2024– )

A Twist-Filled Ride of Surprises...right to the last Episode...

[10/10 · 27 April 2024]

House of Ninjas is superb viewing that had me completely hooked! The storyline grabbed me right from episode one and didn't let go until the very end. I loved the mystery surrounding the old house and all its secrets. The family dynamics and constant threats they faced really amped up the tension.

The acting is first-rate across the board. Nobuko Miyamoto as the grandmother was a standout - her pearls of wisdom and the way she'd drop bombshell revelations stole every scene she was in. Tokio Emoto as the clumsy but hilarious Masamitsu provided so many laughs with his slapstick humour.

But the real star is Kento Kaku, who not only developed the compelling story but also played the lead character grappling with personal demons. His performance was gripping and nuanced.

This is one of the very few series I have not fast-forwarded: because I knew I'd miss something critical! The audio design was also superb, with those tense build-ups and atmospheric sound effects really ratcheting up the suspense. The sound team knew their stuff.

There were so many jaw-dropping surprises! I desperately need a second season to see how the story develops. Kudos to Kento Kaku for his multi-talented work. And to Danny Boyle for his brilliant directing and scripting.

Ignore any naysayers - House of Ninjas is a wildly entertaining! Watch it and get swept up in the madness. I'm so glad I found it.

The Parades (2024)

Art in Motion - 'The Parades' is a superb film.

[10/10 · 6 April 2024]

"The Parades" is a powerful film, brought to life by expert script and direction. I watched the Japanese version with English subtitles, immersing myself in the superb art direction, sound design, and filming that together help to realize the director's vision on screen. The background piano music is just right-it enters like a seasoned actor and leaves without overstaying.

Actor Lily Franky delivers an incredible performance as Michael, with Masami Nagasawa as Minako and Ryusei Yokohama captivating as Shori the Yakuza gangster. In fact, all of the actors deserve credit for their superb acting. Watching them navigate their character arcs was a highlight, moving through the carnival ground and cabins, which serve as a wonderful metaphor for Limbo, reflecting on their lives and unresolved issues. It's also wonderful to find camera movements that work with the pace of the film, adding to its unique charm.

For too long, I have been watching run-of-the-mill films that lack any substance, mere fodder for the brain. "The Parades," however, will stay with me for some time as I try to explore some of the subtlety in the film. The art direction is so precise I want to watch again and capture what I missed the first time.

Some experts have not given kind reviews, but they are the experts whereas I'm just a viewer who loved it. I hope there are many more like me who will find its depth and beauty as engaging as I did.

In conclusion, writer/director Michihito Fujji has created a masterpiece. This is the first time I have seen his work, and I suspect his influences would be from other writer/directors Akira Kurosawa, Giuseppe Tornatore, and Roberto Benigni. Their impact on his storytelling and visual style is palpable, making "The Parades" a must-watch for those who appreciate cinema that marries profound themes with exquisite execution.

Heart of Stone (I) (2023)

The Background Music is Sending me Crazy

[5/10 · 7 December 2023]

It's like they lifted the background music off a royalty free album. It is so over dramatic and corny it takes precedence over everything. Maybe there was no budget for music.

The continuity had a few issues that I tried to ignore but after a while, and with the music sending my mind into a spin, I started sharing my disgust with the screen.

The handsome 'baddie' with blonde hair stood out and seemed more like a fashion model than a ruthless bad man. Although his handsomeness was not enough to keep me watching. I left them fighting at about half way.

Netflix advertise that the "The Times UK" gave it five stars? Maybe by a work experience student. I gave it a downvote.

Quantity over quality seems to be winning.

Beyond the Trek (2017)

"Teleios" (Beyond the Trek): A Hidden Sci-Fi Treasure

[8/10 · 14 June 2023]

Alright, let's talk about this little known movie "Teleios" (Beyond the Trek). Don't let the low-budget label fool you - this film totally delivers when it comes to story. Trust me, you want to stick with it till the end.

The thing that really stands out? The script. It's seriously good. And when you start getting into the story, the characters and their dialogue, everything just clicks into place. It's like a puzzle, and the more you watch, the more you see the big picture.

The characters are actually interesting and you care about what they're saying to each other - no filler dialogue here. And as the plot unfolds, it just gets more and more gripping. This is not your average movie where you can predict what's going to happen next. It keeps you guessing till the very end, and the payoff? Totally worth it.

Now, this is a sci-fi film, and it does an awesome job at letting you unleash your imagination. You can just lose yourself in the world the movie creates, and I gotta say, that's one of the best parts of watching a good sci-fi flick.

You might think that most low-budget films skimp on the script, but "Teleios" is the exception. This film stands out as one of the better ones on Netflix. It's not about flashy effects or huge set pieces, it's about a good story well-told. And it totally delivers on that front.

In a nutshell, if you're into science fiction and love a good story, you've got to check out "Teleios". It might not have the big budget, but it's got heart and a plot that'll keep you hooked. Definitely a satisfying watch.

Alice in Borderland (2020– )

Goes Downhill Fast.....

[5/10 · 28 May 2023]

The first two episodes of Alice in Borderland were well done and left me wanting more. They were very cleverly crafted, with a unique premise that drew me into the story right away. However, I was very disappointed by the next 14 episodes which seemed to go downhill fast.

Instead of building on the strong foundation established in those first two episodes, the show became increasingly repetitive and failed to grow its storyline or characters in any meaningful way. With each passing episode, it felt like the art of clever storytelling disappeared entirely.

I found myself wondering why they stretched out this lackluster plot over so many pathetic episodes when it could have been condensed into a much tighter and impactful narrative. It got so bad that I even hurt my finger fast forwarding through most sections during season two.

Overall, Alice in Borderland just didn't live up to expectations - especially when compared to other recent hits like Squid Game from Korea which truly pushed boundaries with their creative storytelling approach. Save yourself some time and skip this one altogether!

Always Another Dawn (1948)

Well worth watching.

[7/10 · 27 November 2022]

The film is based on a novel by New Zealand author, Zelma Roberts, whose husband died during the Second World War. She also co-wrote the script with the director, T. O. McCreadie.

I enjoyed the film - it has some great moments and some not so great. It has a very documentary feel. At its release in 1948 it didn't get the best reviews and only ran in the cinemas for two weeks (Wikipedia). But I am trying not to judge it with 2022 eyes.

The very long scenes of their training at the Flinders Naval Depot (HMAS Cerberus) in Victoria shows wonderful historical footage of life in the Navy then - but has little to do with building the story and may have bored the audience. Navy provided a lot of assistance so I am sure they wanted their money's worth.

The model scenes pass quickly - thank goodness. The Japanese Officers on the warship looked ancient. Perhaps they were the only Japanese actors available.

The ending was quite moving - Queenie Ashton brought those scenes to life. Bud Tingwell and Gus Doleman both acted well.

The war had been over for three years when it was released, families had lost loved ones, perhaps this film was meant to convey a message that life moves on. 'Always Another Dawn', is well worth watching.

The film crew's payroll was stolen whilst shooting on HMAS Bataan in Port Philip Bay (The Mail, Adelaide 17/5/47).

Tanks for Stalin (2018)

A Gem

[9/10 · 31 August 2022]

Thankfully I did not let the low rating on IMDB sway me. I thoroughly enjoyed this film on Amazon Prime - the story kept me watching. With most films today I stop viewing half way through. Tanks for Stalin presented great storytelling, acting and directing. Why this film has been swamped with low ratings has me bewildered. I hope more films, that tell a unique and entertaining story keep coming - Tanks for Stalin does that. Thank you to the director, Kim Druzhinin, and writer, Nazarov Andrey, for a job well done.

This film presents a fictionalized account of the cross country field test of the T-34 Soviet tank.

The Colony (I) (2013)

Very Entertaining

[9/10 · 12 September 2021]

After so many let-downs during lockdown it was refreshing to find a film that entertained. The story, directing and acting were great. And I sat in the edge of my seat during some of the tense moments. A couple of things could have been better but in the world of Sci Fi I try to immerse myself in that world. Don't let the low score on IMDB scare you away.

Another Life (2019–2021)

Ground Breaking Science Fiction.....

[10/10 · 4 July 2021]

I binge watched the ten episodes. I hope they make more.

I read so many bad reviews, I nearly passed this series by. And now, I just can't understand why viewers rated this series so low It's like a mass attack by some dark force hoping no more episodes are made. The CG and acting have been rubbished many times - I can't find fault. The scripts have been bashed also - I think they are ground breaking. Am I missing something here?

I love watching science fiction - and enjoy letting my imagination fly. "Another Life" did that for me. I try not to analyse it too much - I am watching fiction, not the History Channel.

Watch the ten episodes and decide for yourself. Don't read too many low reviews - read the high ones also.

About Endlessness (2019)

A Disappointment

[4/10 · 13 January 2021]

After watching Roy's other films I was really looking forward to this film - as some fans had said it was his best film ever. I set myself up for a treat. But I was let down. Yes, the art direction and acting are absolutely superb. But the stories didn't work for me. I was bored.

Deadwind (2018–2021)

Too Compilcated

[5/10 · 18 December 2020]

I was quite enjoying this. Then I wasn't. Then I was. Then I got to Episode 8 and I gave up half way through. I am confused with so many characters and am doing my head-in trying to figure out where they all fit in. And some parts are just unbelievable. It showed great promise.

The Uncanny Counter (2020–2023)

A Real Treat

[8/10 · 14 December 2020]

I am thoroughly enjoying this series. Each episode unravels more and more of the characters with each of them having their own unique life and personality.

There are villains, rascals, goodies and baddies then wrap that up with a few evil spirits and a bit of magic - and I'm in. I would not normally watch something like this - and was initially interested in the comic style of the opener. I am glad I gave it a chance. I impatiently wait for the next episode on Netflix each week.

Great work by the writer Ji-na Yeo and the director Seon-Dong Yu. And of course the actors who do the script justice.

Million Dollar Beach House (2020)

Fast Forward Control not Fast Enough

[3/10 · 14 September 2020]

I've hurt my thumb fast forwarding through this crap. I keep shaking my head and simulating sickness - and I live alone. I thought Noel was okay until he set the price of a house at 35 million - probably 30 million too much. The egos on these dudes is massive - what a mob of wankers. I'm interested in houses - not the lives of the turkeys who are trying to sell them. Sex doggie style in Episode 1. really?

Do real estate agents really kiss that much?

6 Underground (2019)

Great Film. Lots of action.

[8/10 · 27 July 2020]

Seems that many are giving this film the Thumbs down. But if it had 007 in the title they would probably give it the thumbs up. I thought it was a very imaginative film with lots of great action. The best car chases I have seen for a very long time. Great dialogue. No sexy stuff. Just good ole wholesome violence, body parts and crashes that kept me on the edge of my seat. I saw it on Netflix and only wish I had seen it at the cinema. I really can't find anything wrong with it. It's a fun flick. I hope there is a sequel.

Explained: Beauty (2019) Season 2, Episode 9

What happened to the Dominos?

[7/10 · 19 January 2020]

"Explained" is a great series on Netflix - and well worth watching. This episode is about BEAUTY and what it means to each of us. The story presents a series of interviews with experts and includes archival footage, highlighted text, diagrams and photographs. The style and narration work well.

Throughout "Beauty" domino artist Steve Price places dominos - in fact the story starts and ends with him. In the final scene we don't see the dominos fall but just see his face saying "perfect". We followed him as he builds the domino art piece - but he was the only one to see the result. What a cop out by the production company.

Boggabilla Bus (2017)

A Real Treat

[9/10 · 21 November 2019]

Boggabilla is a small country town over 200 kms south west of Brisbane. And the bus picks up children in rural areas and takes them to school. The bus is more than a mode of transport - the young passengers change it into a community of its own. The script is wonderful and the characters come to life as they get on and off the bus. One shy young man has a best friend and they share lunches. I love the chain smoking, singing bus driver. If you get the chance see this little gem please do. Hats off the to the director and writer for making this.

Fysh (2017)

A Gem of a Flick

[8/10 · 21 November 2019]

I saw this little film in Myanmar last night - it captured the audience's imagination. The superb use of sound entwined throughout is magical. The late Ronald Faulk plays the part of an old man whose life has become mundane. But strange circumstances suddenly change his life. You can't help falling in love with this old character who discovers life at an old age.

Hunter Killer (2018)

Superb Adventure

[10/10 · 7 December 2018]

Last night was the final showing in a Myanmar cinema. I had not heard of this movie and only saw the billboard yesterday. I was not let down. It had me on the edge of my seat throughout - the acting and directing were superb. The casting was right-on. The tension ebbed and flowed wonderfully.

I was a little tense fearing we would be inundated with close ups of the American flag, hands on hearts and tears of triumph. But it did not happen - thank you Director. I would watch it again.

Westworld (2016–2022)

Season Two - I am Lost.

[4/10 · 14 November 2018]

Did the writers of the last season of LOST also write Season 2 of WESTWORLD? I checked the individual reviews of each episode and they are all in the high sevens and upwards - and I cannot understand why. Season 2 is totally confusing. Then I thought it must be me - perhaps I have lost it and don't know a good flick when I see it - but thankfully many feel the same as me. I found the last three episodes so painful I had to push myself to watch, hoping there was some sort of breakthrough - but I just got more confused and angry. The acting and effects are superb but the story?? We are swimming in great television content and I haven't the time or patience to go back and try and work it all out - goodbye Westworld.

The Investigator: A British Crime Story (2016–2018)

Sad story. Sad storytelling.

[5/10 · 12 July 2018]

The producers must have realised that few people would be able to last four episodes. The padding goes on and on and on and on and on. It could have been over in one episode. I watched two episodes - and thankfully read some reviews on IMDB - apparently I have been saved further boredom.

It's a sad story about Carole Packham. And it is also very sad storytelling.

Life (I) (2017)

Great Science Fiction Flick

[10/10 · 17 March 2018]

The invasion of the 1's and 2's rating this movie is unbelievable. I thought it was a great film - lots of tense moments, great acting, excellent direction and a terrific script. It kept me on the edge of my seat and by letting my mind wander I was totally engrossed. Thanks for making a science fiction movie that kept me entertained - something I see less and less of these days. BTW some excellent effects also.

The Great Wall (I) (2016)

A Very Entertaining Film

[8/10 · 29 December 2016]

As a constant film goer I was really impressed with this film. It was entertaining. The story worked well. The acting was great. And the effects were really impressive. I watched it on a big screen in Bangkok and enjoyed the experience. The sound was equally impressive.

I just can't understand why the really negative reviews abound. Some are cursing it for having foreign actors. Others about the political situation etc. And the poor director is even getting a caning.

The story is about a legend. And it was wonderful to just sit back and let someone tell a story. I nearly didn't go because of all the bad reviews but I am glad I went and made up my own mind.

Go and see it.

India's Frontier Railways (2015– )

A Superb Series about Life and Trains on the Indian Subcontinent

[10/10 · 29 September 2016]

India's Frontier Railways is a fascinating look at the trains running from India to Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal. The three part series explores the lives of the people who work and travel on these trains. I was moved by the sheer poverty and simplicity of their lives and how these ageing trains bring hope, life and connection. The director has captured the moment - and brought to life the rich and difficult lives of India's neighbours - regardless of their status and religion. One thing that stood out for me was their sense of hope - one young man in Nepal wanted to join his brother working as a labourer in Qatar. To do this his father, who worked for the railways, would have to borrow money for the air ticket etc and pay the debt back at 60% interest per year. The series by Gerry Troyna is well crafted - I watched it on Netflix.

Drive (I) (2011)

Hidden Gem

[10/10 · 23 May 2015]

I nearly missed this on Netflix because of the low rating. But check IMDb and noted reviewers here had given it a much, much higher rating. I am so glad I watched this film - this is a hidden gem. The direction and casting are faultless. I could not imagine anyone else playing these roles. The slow motion in parts is handled superbly and helps to bring the story alive.

I can see why the film was nominated for an Oscar for Best Achievement in Sound Editing. If you are a nerdy sound person like me, this is a real treat.

The soundtrack. Man, the soundtrack. When I heard Riz Ortolani's "Oh My Love " sung by Katyna Ranieri my head raced. Where had I heard that before? "Goodbye Uncle Tom".

The Hero is quiet. But we never know his backstory. So we can only imagine. This adds to his charm.

The book by James Sallis was adapted for the screen by Hossein Amini.

Congratulations to Nicolas Winding Refn and Ryan Gosling.

A masterpiece.