Okay so this is NOT "Island of Lost Souls" or "The Big House" but I do think that fans of Peter Lorre would enjoy it. No need to hash out the plot here, and yes of course this is nothing more than a 1940s B-Movie. Nonetheless, if you grew up decades ago and have fond memories of staying up late and watching the old horror movies and science fiction monster movies on TV over the weekends, then watching this movie might be an enjoyable way to spend a late Friday or Saturday night, even though it's more of a "semi-noir" movie instead of a horror film.
Reviews
14 Reviews
Brawl in Cell Block 99
(2017)
Let's see here...
9 October 2017
I am a fan of Vince Vaughn, and seeing this guy who was known for comedic roles branch out in roles such as that of the tough D.I. in "Hacksaw Ridge" and now this film, I can honestly say that Mr. Vaughn has a lot more range than I would have given him credit for based on his earlier roles. That said, Vaughn is a very talented and likable performer, and he does bring soul to a thuggish character who is not an evil S.O.B. but someone who apparently had a very rough background.
The supporting characters and villains are sufficiently hissable and convincing, but there is one issue I have with this film, and it's this: With the exception of the ending, I don't see much about this movie that makes it stand out that much more from other prison films such as "Bad Boys" "The Shawshank Redemption" and of course, "Cool Hand Luke" (although Don Johnson gives an interesting modern version of Strother Martin's performance).
Go see this because of Vince Vaughn's performance, but as the title suggests, there is a good bit of violence to be seen here.
The supporting characters and villains are sufficiently hissable and convincing, but there is one issue I have with this film, and it's this: With the exception of the ending, I don't see much about this movie that makes it stand out that much more from other prison films such as "Bad Boys" "The Shawshank Redemption" and of course, "Cool Hand Luke" (although Don Johnson gives an interesting modern version of Strother Martin's performance).
Go see this because of Vince Vaughn's performance, but as the title suggests, there is a good bit of violence to be seen here.
Super Dark Times
(2017)
If John Hughes had made a super dark film...
9 October 2017
Then Super Dark Times might have been it. Overall I enjoyed this film and I do recommend it. The performances of the young actors are well done;I especially enjoyed the performance of Amy Hargreaves (the attractive mother) who plays the mom as someone who is unaware of the exact situation her son has gotten himself into, but she is NOT your stereotypical naive and clueless parent that is so often portrayed in such films.
That said, the film is not without its faults. The opening scene which the director NEVER returns to makes absolutely NO SENSE in the context of this movie. Additionally, having been a high school geek myself (although that was back in the late 70s and early 80s), I find it odd that the cute girl (played by Elizabeth Cappuccino) would even have the slightest romantic interest in the nice guy geek Zach played by Owen Campbell; sorry but those of us who fall into the "late bloomer" category know that growing up, the most we could hope for from the cute girls was to end up in the friend zone and foolishly hope that one day she would wake up and realize that the nice guy is the guy for her (BALONEY!) That subplot reeked of a writer's fantasy to me.
One particular standout was Sawyer Barth as the eighth grade boy from another school who accidentally gets caught up in the violence. I must say, this young fellow gave a very underrated by convincing performance in a supporting role.
Finally, a few points about how the ending unfolds as it does left me somewhat confused. I could not understand why one particular character behaved a certain way, nor did I understand why someone else did NOT do something that should have been fairly obvious. That's all I want to say since I don't want to spoil it for anyone. I give it a recommendation if you like dark coming of age stories.
That said, the film is not without its faults. The opening scene which the director NEVER returns to makes absolutely NO SENSE in the context of this movie. Additionally, having been a high school geek myself (although that was back in the late 70s and early 80s), I find it odd that the cute girl (played by Elizabeth Cappuccino) would even have the slightest romantic interest in the nice guy geek Zach played by Owen Campbell; sorry but those of us who fall into the "late bloomer" category know that growing up, the most we could hope for from the cute girls was to end up in the friend zone and foolishly hope that one day she would wake up and realize that the nice guy is the guy for her (BALONEY!) That subplot reeked of a writer's fantasy to me.
One particular standout was Sawyer Barth as the eighth grade boy from another school who accidentally gets caught up in the violence. I must say, this young fellow gave a very underrated by convincing performance in a supporting role.
Finally, a few points about how the ending unfolds as it does left me somewhat confused. I could not understand why one particular character behaved a certain way, nor did I understand why someone else did NOT do something that should have been fairly obvious. That's all I want to say since I don't want to spoil it for anyone. I give it a recommendation if you like dark coming of age stories.
The Uninvited
(2009)
The Unimaginative
2 June 2009
Warning: Spoilers
I realize I'm going to incur the wrath of many people on this website but here goes: I will not explain the plot--it's all over this review board. I will not just reveal the twist--that ALSO is revealed all over this review board. What I do want to ask though, is this: How is it so many of you loved this twist when it was blatantly STOLEN from "Fight Club" and "Sixth Sense" (which stole its own twist from "Dead and Buried")? And if you ever saw a movie called "The Other" (NOT the one with Nicole Kidman, that was called "The OtherS" and it ALSO ripped off "Sixth Sense" and "Dead and Buried" --I'm talking about a shocker from the 1970's) I realize most of the posters on this website have probably never seen "The Other" but come on! I know many of you have seen "Fight Club" and "Sixth Sense" so how in the world can you praise this twist when it's been done so much better in other movies!? This is MINDBOGGLING! DO you want to see a really good twist ending? Watch "Dead and Buried" sometime...now THAT is a horror film with an original and believable TWIST!
The Uninvited
(1944)
The Uninspired
19 October 2006
I see I'm in the minority once again, but here goes. I'll admit the movie is highly atmospheric, and the ending is sufficiently creepy--but you have to sit through a boring time until you finally get to anything genuinely creepy. Are viewers that easily frightened? BTW--I'm 43 years old and NOT into the splatter films that are often so popular among the youthful...truly scary films would include "The Innocents," "Legend of Hell House," and yeah, even "Poltergeist." Sorry, but this was just one big disappointment when I saw it as a child and then years later when I gave it another chance as an adult. Come to think of it, as silly as it is, "You'll Find Out" is more enjoyable to watch than this overrated "classic."
A Bronx Tale
(1993)
AN Underrated Masterpiece! (possible spoilers)
21 February 2005
Warning: Spoilers
I'd heard about this film every once in awhile, but rarely in a class with the greats--"Godfather"--"Goodfellas"--"Miller's Crossing" etc. I must say, this has to be one of the GREAT UNDERRATED CLASSICS OF ALL TIME! Why? Because everything about this movie works: I cared about the characters; I laughed (the scene at the racetrack with Johnny Mush is hilarious); I felt the suspense (C in the car with his foolish friends heading to the black section of town); and I enjoyed the realistic but downplayed violence (for a gangster movie); and yes, I was touched by the ending as well. I have no idea why this wonderful film never seemed to go beyond cult status, because it certainly deserved better! BTW--I'm not Italian. I'm Irish and German American descent. However, this movie is NOT just about Italians and Blacks; it's about life and what we make of it. Rent this one if you're a fan of gangster movies or even coming of age stories--you'll be glad you did.
The Honeymooners
(1955–1956)
The Twist Ending
11 November 2004
Okay, so we've all got our favorites. I must include my two:
1. Who could possibly forget the "Chef of the future" episode? In grade school, my sister and I saw this in syndication and literally laughed and cried throughout the entire climax. Unfortunately, it's only this good the first time around, but well worth watching.
2. Since most of the classic 39 ended with Ralph realizing his buffoonery and proclaiming to Alice: "Baby! You're the greatest!"--it was truly refreshing to see an episode with a twist ending. Of course, I'm referring to "The $99,000.00 Answer." Those who've already seen it are probably laughing right now, remembering the first time they'd ever seen this episode. Again, the magic is there only the first time around; still, the climax blindsides the viewer with something totally unexpected and hilarious. Think back to when you first saw this episode; could YOU see the ending coming? I couldn't. For those of you reading this who may not have already seen it--rent or buy this one at the video store. I won't spoil it for you. Laugh and enjoy!
1. Who could possibly forget the "Chef of the future" episode? In grade school, my sister and I saw this in syndication and literally laughed and cried throughout the entire climax. Unfortunately, it's only this good the first time around, but well worth watching.
2. Since most of the classic 39 ended with Ralph realizing his buffoonery and proclaiming to Alice: "Baby! You're the greatest!"--it was truly refreshing to see an episode with a twist ending. Of course, I'm referring to "The $99,000.00 Answer." Those who've already seen it are probably laughing right now, remembering the first time they'd ever seen this episode. Again, the magic is there only the first time around; still, the climax blindsides the viewer with something totally unexpected and hilarious. Think back to when you first saw this episode; could YOU see the ending coming? I couldn't. For those of you reading this who may not have already seen it--rent or buy this one at the video store. I won't spoil it for you. Laugh and enjoy!
The Green Pastures
(1936)
A Must-see Treat!
4 November 2004
I realize that many modern audiences might be turned off by this film due to the politically correct times we live in--probably moreso for the religious references than for the racial stereotypes. Nonetheless, it's a genuine feel-good movie full of love, kindness, and yes, morality. I'd first read the play for a drama class many years ago, and I was absolutely stunned by it, although I figured that I'd never get to see a production of it. Imagine my delight finding it in the video store and actually taking all of it in. BTW--regarding the racial issues here: it continually amazes me how so many people in the African-American community would find this film and "Song of the South" offensive, yet these same people praise Nelly for "Pimpin'" and Ludicrous touting "Ho's in the bedroom." Maybe I'm missing something here, but I don't like itwhen whites tout ghetto stereotypes, and it's just as offensive to me when blacks do it. Yet, we MUST protect the children from "Green Pastures" and "Song of the South" because they perpetuate "racist stereotypes." Okay, I'm off my soap box--rent this film--it's a masterpiece.
Paths of Glory
(1957)
Should be required viewing for everyone
21 October 2004
I saw this on video back in the 80's, and my buddy and I were the only ones in the room. Two big burly guys wiping the tears from our eyes...If the execution doesn't get to you, the final scene at the bar will. This stands out as the first movie I ever cried in as an adult. And I'm not ashamed to admit it (although "Big Fish" also got to me recently). Everyone should see this movie--yes it's full of despair, yes it portrays a cynical view of the world (not just war)--and yes, it is very depressing. But it's also very powerful in its beauty, and it does offer a ray of hope, however slight it may be. I know it's based on actual events, so I would like to know more about the actual incident that did occur, nonetheless, it's well worth seeing, more than once!
Crimes and Misdemeanors
(1989)
Brilliant!
21 October 2004
I've often had mixed emotions about Woody Allen's films over the years, however this one truly socks it to the audience. I've cried in only seven movies my entire life, and this is one of them. It's a truly touching dramedy that brilliantly meshes hilarious comedy with realistic heartbreak. While I enjoyed the fantasy sequences with Landau conversing with his deceased father, the final twenty minutes of this film had me laughing and crying at the same time...Lester's reactions to Cliff's "documentary" are priceless, and the closing dance to "I'll Be Seeing You" would leave a lump in anybody's throat. By the way, let's not forget the underrated performance of Jerry Orbach as the black sheep of the family--Orbach deserved an Oscar nomination as well. Admittedly, this film isn't for everybody--but if you've ever contemplated the ironies of traditional morality vs. the real world, then there should be something here to delight or enrage you, one way or the other, while still entertaining you for the duration of the film.
Stand by Me
(1986)
Everything about this film works!
11 May 2004
This is definitely one of my favorites. Even though I grew up in a different time period, I could easily identify with those boys in the film. I find the film truly moving; I'm a man in my 40's, and I've cried in only six movies my entire life, and this one certainly got to me! One of the reasons isn't so much the death of one of the main boys, but because it made me long for that "simpler time" in my own life, and lamenting that yes, no one has friends like they had when they were 12. Or as another writer so aptly put it, "You can't go home again." Maybe not, but "Stand By Me" is the closest you'll come. Another thing I noticed is that, in my opinion, most of Stephen King's works rarely translate well to the screen. This one and "Shawshank Redemption" are probably the the BEST TWO, and they're not even horror stories. Watch them both!
The Star Wars Holiday Special
(1978 TV Movie)
Abomination!
2 May 2004
I saw this for the first time at age 40--it's indescribably wretched, and I can't really add anything new. However I am curious--didn't ANYBODY working on this abomination see how incredibly embarrassing this would be!? Were Harrison Ford & co. that hard up for a paycheck!? It boggles the mind! As for the guest stars, I don't know who should be more ashamed: Bea Arthur, Harvey Korman, or Art Carney. (I won't even comment on Diahann Carroll or Jefferson Starship!) Note that Sir Alec Guiness avoided this trap, although he couldn't do anything about the film clips. Again, were they hard up or did they think it was a joke? What about the network brass? Did THEY actually believe this was something "special" for the holidays? I can only compare this to another abomination--a song called "Watching Scotty Grow." It must be heard to be believed, but I still can't believe that A)somebody wrote it; B)someone produced it; C)George Lucas & these actors agreed to it; and D)I sacrificed over one hour of my life to watch it!
Echoes in the Darkness
(1987)
True Cliffhanger
18 April 2004
The night Part 1 aired on tv, I was inexorably drawn in. When Part 2 aired, I recorded it because I had to work that night. It was the same night a horrible storm hit--when I came home to my VCR, I'd discovered that the entire episode was UNWATCHABLE! This forced me to buy the novel to find out what happened. The novel is much more graphic and involved, but it turned me on to Joseph Wambaugh because it was the only true-life-horror-mystery-tragedy that I actually laughed out loud while reading! The book is very morbidly funny! Years later when I acquired the video, my girlfriend lamented that it was too long--until we started watching it...when Gary Cole utters the final lines of the cliffhanger--"What kids?" then we saw "To Be Continued..." flash across the screen, I jokingly said: "Well, it's late and I need to be leaving, I'll show you Part 2 some other time." She grabbed me and told me that I WASN'T GOING TO LEAVE until we watched the second video! Yes, it's that good! Watch it if you like true crime--but read the book too!
Still fun after all these years
8 February 2004
I loved this film as a child, and I still enjoy it at age 40. Whenever I'm reminiscing with anyone else who saw it as a youth, (as I'm noticing on this message board)--the death coach and banshee scenes always stand out! I remember the theatre having seats that partially reclined back, and then jumping back in our seats when the banshee revealed itself at the door! I was also creeped out by the horse that led Darby to the well at Knocknasheega; what a great scene! Definitely worth seeing, however, I'd hate to see a remake butcher this film like somebody did with "Psycho" and "Flubber"--Sorry, but you just can't remake the classics.
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