Perhaps I'm not giving this game a fair judgment,perhaps it was due to certain circumstances that I was unable to fully enjoy the game.There must be some reason why this game received so much acclaim,from players and critics alike.Well,the idea and setting are nice,the story sounded promising...and that's pretty much it.This game has numerous problems.Let's start with the technical ones.My PC exceeds the recommended system parameters,but the FPS I'm getting is complete sh*t (15-20).Changing the graphic settings doesn't really do much either.Turning shadows off is the only thing that makes it a little better.Now,maybe it's not fair to blame the game for this,maybe it's just not compatible with my graphics card in particular.So OK,i can bear with low fps,but it wouldn't aggravate me so much if this game's graphics weren't this crappy.I personally don't judge a game for it's graphics,but "Risen" just looks ugly. No AA,low res textures everywhere.And it's not just the textures,character models are unappealing and have very little variety.Combat system sucks,there's not a lot of strategy into it.Enemies are way to OP.Normally a little more challenge is OK,but with this piece of sh*t combat system it's just plain frustrating.The story sounded promising,but I couldn't bare with this game long enough to get into it,because of the dialog.My god,the dialog is so boring.The voice actors sound like they're going to fall asleep.The quest log is the most useless piece of sh*t I have ever seen. Classic WoW had a more useful quest helper than this,at least there you could find the approximate position of the quest target by reading the actual log.Here it just shows a simple objective and highlights the f**king quest giver.Not the objective,the quest giver.I get where they were going with this,trying to make a more hardcore RPG,but it just doesn't work.It's tedious and unsatisfying.Maybe this isn't such a fair judgment,because I only endured 2 hours of this game.Perhaps it picks up afterwords,but I can't see how with the horrible combat system and visuals.
Reviews
51 Reviews
World of Warcraft
(2005 Video Game)
A dated MMO that Blizzard keeps on life support
1 August 2013
Let me point out first,if the title of this review has misled you,I DO NOT hate WoW.I have played the game for about half a year.I saw it's flaws,I saw it's good aspects.But the reason why I'm giving it a fairly low rating is not due to poor gameplay and such,but due to Blizzard's policy.
When WoW came out in 2004 it was considered groundbreaking,everyone was hyped and soon it became one of the most popular games ever.But with every expansion the game began to decay.Instead of focusing on newer projects,Blizzard just want to keep WoW on life support.You have to pay for subscription,yet there are free-to-play MMOs available that surpass WoW in almost every aspect.Not to insult WoW,sure,leveling up is boring,but raiding is fun and the game is a blast if you play it with some friends.My main problem is the fact,that Wow has sort of a monopoly when it comes to MMOs,mainly because of the huge success after it's release and because of that it influences other MMOs to emulate it's gameplay instead of being their own thing.If not for this,I would have given this game a 7/10.And what's even worse,Blizzard don't care that they are slowing progress,they are only interested in the profit.So instead of saying "You know,Wow was a blast,but it's due time we move on.Let's give the other MMOs a chance and to keep the fans happy,we'll make Wow free-to-play.",they release expansion after expansion and really on the loyal fans to keep on playing(and paying).Shame on you Blizzard,shame on you.
But,you know,there is hope,lately new MMOs have been coming out.MMOs with gameplay completely different from WoW,like "Dragon Nest" or "DC Universe Online".So maybe Wow is starting to loose it's influence,maybe Blizzard will soon realize that.
When WoW came out in 2004 it was considered groundbreaking,everyone was hyped and soon it became one of the most popular games ever.But with every expansion the game began to decay.Instead of focusing on newer projects,Blizzard just want to keep WoW on life support.You have to pay for subscription,yet there are free-to-play MMOs available that surpass WoW in almost every aspect.Not to insult WoW,sure,leveling up is boring,but raiding is fun and the game is a blast if you play it with some friends.My main problem is the fact,that Wow has sort of a monopoly when it comes to MMOs,mainly because of the huge success after it's release and because of that it influences other MMOs to emulate it's gameplay instead of being their own thing.If not for this,I would have given this game a 7/10.And what's even worse,Blizzard don't care that they are slowing progress,they are only interested in the profit.So instead of saying "You know,Wow was a blast,but it's due time we move on.Let's give the other MMOs a chance and to keep the fans happy,we'll make Wow free-to-play.",they release expansion after expansion and really on the loyal fans to keep on playing(and paying).Shame on you Blizzard,shame on you.
But,you know,there is hope,lately new MMOs have been coming out.MMOs with gameplay completely different from WoW,like "Dragon Nest" or "DC Universe Online".So maybe Wow is starting to loose it's influence,maybe Blizzard will soon realize that.
Rosario + Vampire
(2008)
A shame they didn't develop it further
30 June 2013
Warning: Spoilers
This anime was recommended to me by a friend,who has also read the manga and spoke highly of both.I recently finished watching both seasons and i felt a little disappointed.I won't go into specifics about the story to avoid spoilers.Plus,I don't think that will be necessary in order to explain what my main complaint is.
Our protagonist is a fairly average teenage boy,Tskune,who after failing an exam ends up enlisting in a school for supernatural beings also referred to as monsters.It is left ambiguous if this is mere chance or fate.The presence of supernatural elements is typical for anime,so nothing new there.It was interesting,however,that our protagonist was placed in an environment where he is all but powerless.This is clearly noticeable as in the first couple of Episodes Tskune is fearful,unsure and,well,I'd hate to call him a wimp,but that is what he is.This was,however, necessary in order for him to develop and stand up for himself and his friends.
The best part of Rosario,in my opinion,was the way the characters were developed and the interactions between them.This is most notable in the first season,because the characters introduced in season 2 were not that many and didn't have important roles.And here we come to the main problem of this anime.The overall flow was good in the first season,story arc was complete,characters received adequate development.Season 2,however,breaks that flow.The first 2 episodes introduce a new character,Moka's sister,who receives very little in terms of development(which is not so in the manga).The next episodes contribute nothing to advance the overall plot and the pacing becomes horrible.A subplot about Moka's Father pops out of nowhere in the final 3 episodes,when it should have been developed,or at least hinted,throughout the entire season.The characters are also do not receive as much development as in season 1.
I think that by the time they started making season 2 they ditched they Idea of the anime being it's own separate thing and instead turned it into an advertising tool for the manga,which,most people agree,is far superior to the anime.And that's a real shame,since it had a lot of potential.
Although season 2 is kind of a let down,especially the ending,I would still recommend Rosario,as it is very fun to watch and has very likable characters.
Our protagonist is a fairly average teenage boy,Tskune,who after failing an exam ends up enlisting in a school for supernatural beings also referred to as monsters.It is left ambiguous if this is mere chance or fate.The presence of supernatural elements is typical for anime,so nothing new there.It was interesting,however,that our protagonist was placed in an environment where he is all but powerless.This is clearly noticeable as in the first couple of Episodes Tskune is fearful,unsure and,well,I'd hate to call him a wimp,but that is what he is.This was,however, necessary in order for him to develop and stand up for himself and his friends.
The best part of Rosario,in my opinion,was the way the characters were developed and the interactions between them.This is most notable in the first season,because the characters introduced in season 2 were not that many and didn't have important roles.And here we come to the main problem of this anime.The overall flow was good in the first season,story arc was complete,characters received adequate development.Season 2,however,breaks that flow.The first 2 episodes introduce a new character,Moka's sister,who receives very little in terms of development(which is not so in the manga).The next episodes contribute nothing to advance the overall plot and the pacing becomes horrible.A subplot about Moka's Father pops out of nowhere in the final 3 episodes,when it should have been developed,or at least hinted,throughout the entire season.The characters are also do not receive as much development as in season 1.
I think that by the time they started making season 2 they ditched they Idea of the anime being it's own separate thing and instead turned it into an advertising tool for the manga,which,most people agree,is far superior to the anime.And that's a real shame,since it had a lot of potential.
Although season 2 is kind of a let down,especially the ending,I would still recommend Rosario,as it is very fun to watch and has very likable characters.
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II - The Sith Lords
(2004 Video Game)
A shame so much was cut out
17 February 2013
Before I start with the review I would like to point out,that I am giving the game a higher rating than it deserves(I would normally rate it at 7.5),simply because "TSL" had great potential,but sadly,never achieved the greatness it deserved.
The gameplay mechanics are basically the same as the first game.Some improvements have been added,such as more weapon upgrades,lab stations and more force powers,but I don't think it's relevant,as I will mainly talk about the story.
The basics of the story are better than the first game.Let's face it,as much as I love KOTOR's story,it was little more than your basic good vs. evil plot,with some clever twists,but still fairly simplistic.Here the focus is more on betrayal and suffering.Also,unlike the first game,not everything is entirely black or white.The characters are also far more complex,especially Kreia.This is reflected in the influence system(determines how much each companion likes you,depending on the actions you take).
So,where does the game fall short?The answer is the ending.One of the most botched up,incoherent video game endings I have ever seen(on par with the "Mass Effect 3" ending before the extended cut).Seriously the first time I played the game,I had no idea what the hell was going on.First of all the ending is so damn abrupt,that when I reached the point of no return(where you can no longer do any other quests besides the main one) I said to myself "Nah,it can't end this soon,this is probably like the "Leviathan" segment in the first game",but no it did end that soon.Secondly,there are so many scenes missing,you wont be able to fully comprehend what is going on because the pacing moves at ludicrous speed.Seriously,you kill 3 Sith Lords in less than 3 hours,I'm not kidding.Characters disappear with almost no explanation,plot threads go absolutely nowhere and in the end you are just left thinking whether you had taken some kind of hallucinogenic substance,or the game designers.
And the problem isn't just with the ending,it's safe to say that about 40% of the game's worth in cutscenes,quests,characters and areas has been cut out.In some cases it was cut out so late in the development,that you can,for example,see the door to a cut out area or start a quest you can't even finish.I don't know why they did it,were they that rushed,were they high?
It's very sad,because this game could have not only lived up to the first one,but even surpassed it and it could have established itself as one of the best RPGs ever made.There are some restoration mods,but I don't think they do the game justice.
The gameplay mechanics are basically the same as the first game.Some improvements have been added,such as more weapon upgrades,lab stations and more force powers,but I don't think it's relevant,as I will mainly talk about the story.
The basics of the story are better than the first game.Let's face it,as much as I love KOTOR's story,it was little more than your basic good vs. evil plot,with some clever twists,but still fairly simplistic.Here the focus is more on betrayal and suffering.Also,unlike the first game,not everything is entirely black or white.The characters are also far more complex,especially Kreia.This is reflected in the influence system(determines how much each companion likes you,depending on the actions you take).
So,where does the game fall short?The answer is the ending.One of the most botched up,incoherent video game endings I have ever seen(on par with the "Mass Effect 3" ending before the extended cut).Seriously the first time I played the game,I had no idea what the hell was going on.First of all the ending is so damn abrupt,that when I reached the point of no return(where you can no longer do any other quests besides the main one) I said to myself "Nah,it can't end this soon,this is probably like the "Leviathan" segment in the first game",but no it did end that soon.Secondly,there are so many scenes missing,you wont be able to fully comprehend what is going on because the pacing moves at ludicrous speed.Seriously,you kill 3 Sith Lords in less than 3 hours,I'm not kidding.Characters disappear with almost no explanation,plot threads go absolutely nowhere and in the end you are just left thinking whether you had taken some kind of hallucinogenic substance,or the game designers.
And the problem isn't just with the ending,it's safe to say that about 40% of the game's worth in cutscenes,quests,characters and areas has been cut out.In some cases it was cut out so late in the development,that you can,for example,see the door to a cut out area or start a quest you can't even finish.I don't know why they did it,were they that rushed,were they high?
It's very sad,because this game could have not only lived up to the first one,but even surpassed it and it could have established itself as one of the best RPGs ever made.There are some restoration mods,but I don't think they do the game justice.
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
(2003 Video Game)
Nostalgia
17 February 2013
"KOTOR" was the very first RPG game I ever played and it really got me interested in that particular genre.The ability to create your own protagonist,to choose how the story develops,gotta love it.
Now,about the game itself.
Just like Bioware's other RPGs,"KOTOR" is fairly linear,but the intriguing story,likable characters and well-written dialog make up for that.The combat system is also very unique.It is turn-based and real- time at once,it's a little hard to describe,but it's actually easy to get used to.
There are various character builds to choose from.That,combined with the light/dark side choices gives the game a very high replay value.
"Star Wars: Knights of The Old Republic" is an inseparable part of my childhood memories and it still a fantastic game.Sure,the graphics are dated,but graphics aren't important,having fun is.
Now,about the game itself.
Just like Bioware's other RPGs,"KOTOR" is fairly linear,but the intriguing story,likable characters and well-written dialog make up for that.The combat system is also very unique.It is turn-based and real- time at once,it's a little hard to describe,but it's actually easy to get used to.
There are various character builds to choose from.That,combined with the light/dark side choices gives the game a very high replay value.
"Star Wars: Knights of The Old Republic" is an inseparable part of my childhood memories and it still a fantastic game.Sure,the graphics are dated,but graphics aren't important,having fun is.
Mass Effect 3
(2012 Video Game)
The best one!!!
3 February 2013
An epic conclusion to an epic trilogy,"Mass Effect 3" is my favorite entry in the franchise.That is not to say the game is without flaws(it had one major flaw before the extended cut was released).
The gameplay is improved.Bioware learned from their mistakes and made the combat\leveling even better than the second.A few new features have been added,but I won't go into details.
What I really liked was the story,it's more tense and dramatic than the previous two.At some points I even cried.
Since I find it hard to structure my arguments about what I like,I will just point out,what I didn't like.(big rant about the ending is not encluded,firstly because the extended cut is already released,secondly so many people have talked about it there is no point)
-James Vega-He is a boring,underdeveloped and stereotypical character. I don't know why they added him,he feels so out of place.
-I felt the game was too short,however I last played it before the "Leviathan" and "Omega" DLCs,so that may no longer be the case.
The gameplay is improved.Bioware learned from their mistakes and made the combat\leveling even better than the second.A few new features have been added,but I won't go into details.
What I really liked was the story,it's more tense and dramatic than the previous two.At some points I even cried.
Since I find it hard to structure my arguments about what I like,I will just point out,what I didn't like.(big rant about the ending is not encluded,firstly because the extended cut is already released,secondly so many people have talked about it there is no point)
-James Vega-He is a boring,underdeveloped and stereotypical character. I don't know why they added him,he feels so out of place.
-I felt the game was too short,however I last played it before the "Leviathan" and "Omega" DLCs,so that may no longer be the case.
Mass Effect 2
(2010 Video Game)
They improved the gameplay,the story is well... a different story
3 February 2013
The second entry in the "Mass Effect" franchise,one of my favorite gaming franchises of all time, is also,in my opinion,the weakest one.That isn't to say it's a bad game.It's good,damn good,but it falls a little short exactly where it shouldn't-the story line.
I would like to point out,that Bioware really put a lot of effort in improving the gameplay.It's a lot more fluent and closer to a third person shooter.They also give you a little more freedom to explore,which is nice.
Now,about the story.It's not bad,but it just feels a little stagnant.In the first game you could feel the threat of an imminent reaper invasion,hear it's more like a quiet threat.Secondly,the perfect balance between humor and drama we had in the first game is broken.There are a lot of moments that can only be described as being silly,over-the-top and cheesy as hell,like Sheppard dancing.That's not to say these moments aren't enjoyable,it's just that I find it hard to take the whole story serious.In terms of characters they went with quantity over quality.You have 12 teammates(DLCs included),in the first game you had only 6.Naturally this leads to a lack of development.The characters are more straight forward-Grint is a typical warrior who seeks honor,Zaeed is a typical war veteran.There are exceptions-like Miranda or Mordin.
Overall,"Mass Effect 2" just isn't as good as the first or the third.
I would like to point out,that Bioware really put a lot of effort in improving the gameplay.It's a lot more fluent and closer to a third person shooter.They also give you a little more freedom to explore,which is nice.
Now,about the story.It's not bad,but it just feels a little stagnant.In the first game you could feel the threat of an imminent reaper invasion,hear it's more like a quiet threat.Secondly,the perfect balance between humor and drama we had in the first game is broken.There are a lot of moments that can only be described as being silly,over-the-top and cheesy as hell,like Sheppard dancing.That's not to say these moments aren't enjoyable,it's just that I find it hard to take the whole story serious.In terms of characters they went with quantity over quality.You have 12 teammates(DLCs included),in the first game you had only 6.Naturally this leads to a lack of development.The characters are more straight forward-Grint is a typical warrior who seeks honor,Zaeed is a typical war veteran.There are exceptions-like Miranda or Mordin.
Overall,"Mass Effect 2" just isn't as good as the first or the third.
Mass Effect
(2007 Video Game)
Nothing short of a masterpiece
3 February 2013
In this review I won't just discuss "Mass Effect",one of my all-time favorite games,but also my opinion on RPGs,so please bear with me.
When I was a little kid(about 10 years old) I didn't quite understand the concept of RPGs.I thought they were slow paced and lacked action,in other words-boring.That was until I played a couple of them and saw that this is the most unique game genre.Why,you may ask.Well if you compare any FPS games you will notice that the concept is basically the same.There are some differences in the game mechanics,but really you just run around and shoot stuff.RPG games have much more variety and each franchise is unique in some way.The charm of Bioware's RPGs is a well constructed story and likable characters.In that regard "Mass Effect" does no disappoint.
Although the game itself is somewhat linear(there is not nearly as much freedom for exploration as in,say,"Fallout 3"),but there is more than enough content(there are also 2 DLCs) to make the game's length more than satisfying.The gameplay is sort of like a mix between a third person shooter and "Star Wars:KOTOR"-it's a little strange.I like that there is a strategy element to it.
The dialog is my favorite part of the game.It's very well- written,sometimes it's also funny as hell.Speaking of that the game has a fair bit of humor in it,but that's not to say there is no drama,either.It's a perfect blend between both,kind of like "Lord of the Rings".The characters are also likable. "Mass Effect" is a fantastic game,I strongly recommend it.
When I was a little kid(about 10 years old) I didn't quite understand the concept of RPGs.I thought they were slow paced and lacked action,in other words-boring.That was until I played a couple of them and saw that this is the most unique game genre.Why,you may ask.Well if you compare any FPS games you will notice that the concept is basically the same.There are some differences in the game mechanics,but really you just run around and shoot stuff.RPG games have much more variety and each franchise is unique in some way.The charm of Bioware's RPGs is a well constructed story and likable characters.In that regard "Mass Effect" does no disappoint.
Although the game itself is somewhat linear(there is not nearly as much freedom for exploration as in,say,"Fallout 3"),but there is more than enough content(there are also 2 DLCs) to make the game's length more than satisfying.The gameplay is sort of like a mix between a third person shooter and "Star Wars:KOTOR"-it's a little strange.I like that there is a strategy element to it.
The dialog is my favorite part of the game.It's very well- written,sometimes it's also funny as hell.Speaking of that the game has a fair bit of humor in it,but that's not to say there is no drama,either.It's a perfect blend between both,kind of like "Lord of the Rings".The characters are also likable. "Mass Effect" is a fantastic game,I strongly recommend it.
Event Horizon
(1997)
The most frightening,effective and disturbing horror movie I have ever seen
20 January 2013
I had extremely low expectations for "Event Horizon".The film was made in a period where a lot of filmmakers thought that when you have enough money to use and abuse CGI your movie doesn't need a decent script.With that in mind I thought "Event Horizon" was going to be a cliché horror film that makes no effort to build suspense and just throws CG blood and gore in your face.I was wrong.Dead wrong.
"Event Horizon" is the creepiest and most suspenseful horror movie I have ever seen.It manages to create a feeling of dread and foreboding like no other film I have ever seen before.This is due to a combination of great camera-work,appropriate music and(believe it or not) CG.Yes,the CGI is actually used appropriately here,not just added for the sake of it being there.That said,the special effects are top-notch(for 1997).
Another thing I liked was that the ship itself wasn't the main threat.It was the characters.They become obsessed with their past mistakes(things they had locked away in their minds and didn't want to remember) and that begins to drive them insane.True,the ship is the catalyst for this,but the focus is more on the characters themselves.This reminds me of "Cube"-one of my favorite movies.
The characters themselves are a bit underdeveloped,but they aren't cannon fodder like in many other horror films.Each of them has their the distinct personality and background information is given about some of them.I think this was alright for the purpose of this film.In my opinion ,if they did add more character development it would have ruined the pacing.
"Event Horizon" is a very well made,but sadly underrated, horror movie.I strongly recommend it.
"Event Horizon" is the creepiest and most suspenseful horror movie I have ever seen.It manages to create a feeling of dread and foreboding like no other film I have ever seen before.This is due to a combination of great camera-work,appropriate music and(believe it or not) CG.Yes,the CGI is actually used appropriately here,not just added for the sake of it being there.That said,the special effects are top-notch(for 1997).
Another thing I liked was that the ship itself wasn't the main threat.It was the characters.They become obsessed with their past mistakes(things they had locked away in their minds and didn't want to remember) and that begins to drive them insane.True,the ship is the catalyst for this,but the focus is more on the characters themselves.This reminds me of "Cube"-one of my favorite movies.
The characters themselves are a bit underdeveloped,but they aren't cannon fodder like in many other horror films.Each of them has their the distinct personality and background information is given about some of them.I think this was alright for the purpose of this film.In my opinion ,if they did add more character development it would have ruined the pacing.
"Event Horizon" is a very well made,but sadly underrated, horror movie.I strongly recommend it.
Stuklen dom
(2010–2012)
Mediocre
13 January 2013
When this show first aired it was a major success.People were talking about it a lot and bTV,the channel where "Glass Home" was broadcast,were real proud of their achievement.This show was,in my opinion,the main reason bTV released other Bulgarian shows after "Glass Home"'s conclusion,although none of them were as successful.Truth be told,the show was little more than a soap opera with mediocre characters and a mediocre story line.It did have some original ideas here and there and in the first season it wasn't that bad.
When bTV found out what a success this show was,they wanted to make as much money out of it as possible.The second season was OK,but when they got to season 3 it was obvious they were intentionally prolonging the show.The pacing was so slow,there were episodes where absolutely nothing significant happened.The final episodes were OK,there were plenty of action scenes,so at least you wouldn't be bored watching them.
My main problem with this show are the characters.Most of them are flat and not at all likable.I'm talking about the younger characters like Siana and Dani.I think one of the reasons for that is the poor performance the actors who play them turn in.They are either incredibly wooden or incredibly over-the-top.That's not to say there aren't good actors or likable characters in this show.
"Glass Home" had potential,but sadly the people who made this just tried to cash in on the show's initial success,turning it into a mediocre soap opera.
When bTV found out what a success this show was,they wanted to make as much money out of it as possible.The second season was OK,but when they got to season 3 it was obvious they were intentionally prolonging the show.The pacing was so slow,there were episodes where absolutely nothing significant happened.The final episodes were OK,there were plenty of action scenes,so at least you wouldn't be bored watching them.
My main problem with this show are the characters.Most of them are flat and not at all likable.I'm talking about the younger characters like Siana and Dani.I think one of the reasons for that is the poor performance the actors who play them turn in.They are either incredibly wooden or incredibly over-the-top.That's not to say there aren't good actors or likable characters in this show.
"Glass Home" had potential,but sadly the people who made this just tried to cash in on the show's initial success,turning it into a mediocre soap opera.
Alien: Resurrection
(1997)
In space no one can hear you suck
6 January 2013
Warning: Spoilers
When I saw the first 10 minutes of this movie,my first reaction was "Is this some kind of joke???".Well if it was a joke,it would have been in very poor taste,unfortunately it's not.
I would like to point out,I was completely alright with how "Alien 3" ended and I liked the movie itself,sure it wasn't as good as the original and "Aliens",but for me it was a satisfying way to end the series."Alien:Resurrection" was completely unnecessary and the film itself seems more like a spoof than a sequel.
First of all-the characters are flat.They are also inconsistent-One minuter Winona Ryder's character tries to give Ripley support and the next she literally says "F**k you" to Ripley.The black guy can do his fancy ricocheting bullets thingy,but he can't shoot a giant alien right in front of him.It seems the writers forgot what character development was until half-way into the film,where there is actually an attempt of giving the characters some depth,but then the writers said "F**k it,let's throw in some more aliens!Better yet,let's throw in a last minute explanation to create a new alien.Oh this is a good one,let's make the viewers sympathise for the damn thing,although they've seen it for less then 10 minutes."What were they thinking???
Another huge problem is the CGI-it sucks,but the director doesn't seem to agree,because there are so many pointless CGI scenes,but the movie was made in a period when Hollywood thought CGI was incredibly realistic and awesome.Some of the death scenes are creative,but really over-the- top and ridiculous.The suspense from the previous films is also missing.
"Alien:Resurrection" is one of the worst sequels I have ever seen.Stay the hell away from it.
I would like to point out,I was completely alright with how "Alien 3" ended and I liked the movie itself,sure it wasn't as good as the original and "Aliens",but for me it was a satisfying way to end the series."Alien:Resurrection" was completely unnecessary and the film itself seems more like a spoof than a sequel.
First of all-the characters are flat.They are also inconsistent-One minuter Winona Ryder's character tries to give Ripley support and the next she literally says "F**k you" to Ripley.The black guy can do his fancy ricocheting bullets thingy,but he can't shoot a giant alien right in front of him.It seems the writers forgot what character development was until half-way into the film,where there is actually an attempt of giving the characters some depth,but then the writers said "F**k it,let's throw in some more aliens!Better yet,let's throw in a last minute explanation to create a new alien.Oh this is a good one,let's make the viewers sympathise for the damn thing,although they've seen it for less then 10 minutes."What were they thinking???
Another huge problem is the CGI-it sucks,but the director doesn't seem to agree,because there are so many pointless CGI scenes,but the movie was made in a period when Hollywood thought CGI was incredibly realistic and awesome.Some of the death scenes are creative,but really over-the- top and ridiculous.The suspense from the previous films is also missing.
"Alien:Resurrection" is one of the worst sequels I have ever seen.Stay the hell away from it.
Star Trek
(2009)
It's...different
5 January 2013
It's safe to say that the 2009 reboot of "Star Trek" has little to do with anything else "Star Trek" related in terms of overall tone,though it does make some references to The Original Series-that's pretty much it.I think that is the main reason why many hardcore trekkies disliked this movie-they expected something more familiar and nostalgic and were disappointed whit this new approach,so the fans completely ignored the good parts of the film and instead started nitpicking.I read some of the negative reviews and I saw people criticizing the name "red mater",come on guys,if it was called tri-nuclear-gravitational-monocrappular- thingofapoop would you be happier,I mean,when was anything science related ever criticized in a "Star Trek" film.I mean no disrespect,of course,everyone has their own opinion.I am not a hardcore "Star Trek" fan,but I can see why those who are felt cheated,but,in my opinion,this movie was orientated more towards younger viewers,who weren't that familiar with the "Star Trek" universe.
Alien 3
(1992)
I actually liked it
5 January 2013
Warning: Spoilers
With all the negative reviews "Alien 3" was getting my expectations were very low.To my surprise,I thought the movie was good,sure there are flaws,but the general idea was very nice-different then the first movie and "Aliens".The fact that this film takes the franchise in a new direction means this wasn't a cash-in sequel-effort was put into it.
So,what makes the third installment different then the previous.Well,the film creates a rather sad and depressing atmosphere.I think this is one of the reasons people hate "Alien 3" so much,it ruins the happy ending of "Aliens".And sure,the way it kills of Hicks and Newt is a little cheap,but necessary for the sad tone of the film and it also prevents further overflow of characters.That brings us to the next complaint a lot of people have-too many characters.I think the characters that needed to be developed-Clemens,Dillon and Ripley get adequate character development.The romance between Ripley and Clemens does seem unnatural and kinda forced and it's one of the things I didn't like about the film.
Although "Alien 3" doesn't have the constant suspense of the first film or the thrilling scenes of "Aliens" it manages to create a feeling of helplessness and constant dread.Think about it,"Alien" took place on a space ship,which is isolated and far away from help,but you can get on an escape pod and blow the ship up anytime you want(which they did)."Aliens" takes place on a remote colony,but they had weapons and a ship in orbit."Alien 3" takes place in a prison in the a** end of space and they have no weapons.Sure,the alien itself,may not be very shocking.In some scenes it's CG(I think that's because I watched the assembly cut,I'm not sure how it was in the original).
I think people are being to harsh on "Alien 3".The movie is not that bad and it's worth taking a look at.
So,what makes the third installment different then the previous.Well,the film creates a rather sad and depressing atmosphere.I think this is one of the reasons people hate "Alien 3" so much,it ruins the happy ending of "Aliens".And sure,the way it kills of Hicks and Newt is a little cheap,but necessary for the sad tone of the film and it also prevents further overflow of characters.That brings us to the next complaint a lot of people have-too many characters.I think the characters that needed to be developed-Clemens,Dillon and Ripley get adequate character development.The romance between Ripley and Clemens does seem unnatural and kinda forced and it's one of the things I didn't like about the film.
Although "Alien 3" doesn't have the constant suspense of the first film or the thrilling scenes of "Aliens" it manages to create a feeling of helplessness and constant dread.Think about it,"Alien" took place on a space ship,which is isolated and far away from help,but you can get on an escape pod and blow the ship up anytime you want(which they did)."Aliens" takes place on a remote colony,but they had weapons and a ship in orbit."Alien 3" takes place in a prison in the a** end of space and they have no weapons.Sure,the alien itself,may not be very shocking.In some scenes it's CG(I think that's because I watched the assembly cut,I'm not sure how it was in the original).
I think people are being to harsh on "Alien 3".The movie is not that bad and it's worth taking a look at.
League of Legends
(2009 Video Game)
Unoriginal and monotonous at first glance,but once you start playing you see how innovative and addicting this game is
4 January 2013
"League of Legends" was recommended to me by a friend and,to be honest,I had very low expectations.I had seen gameplay before and it looked dull to me,you have several maps to choose from,you destroy the enemy turrets to get to their base and destroy it-simplicity itself.Plus it looked to me as if the game was ripping of Warcraft 3 in it's gameplay style.I was wrong.Dead wrong.Believe me when I say,you need to play the game to give it a fair judgment.
There if far,far more strategy involved than one can imagine.There are many variables that need to be assessed,what type of characters does the enemy team consist of,what items builds will they be using,what type of characters your team consists of and so on.Teamwork is essential,especially if you are playing as a support character.The thing I like the most,however,is the fact that your skill has much greater importance than your level,sure masteries and runes help too,but in the end it all comes down to your wit and your strategy.In that sense,there really aren't weak or strong characters in the game,it's more a matter of what gameplay style you like and which character's abilities you like.
Although I'm very new in this game,I already like it a lot and I strongly recommend it.
There if far,far more strategy involved than one can imagine.There are many variables that need to be assessed,what type of characters does the enemy team consist of,what items builds will they be using,what type of characters your team consists of and so on.Teamwork is essential,especially if you are playing as a support character.The thing I like the most,however,is the fact that your skill has much greater importance than your level,sure masteries and runes help too,but in the end it all comes down to your wit and your strategy.In that sense,there really aren't weak or strong characters in the game,it's more a matter of what gameplay style you like and which character's abilities you like.
Although I'm very new in this game,I already like it a lot and I strongly recommend it.
Predator
(1987)
Nice action movie,but it has some flaws
4 January 2013
"Predator" is one of the most famous Schwarzenegger movies.The movie has it's fair share of one-liners and let's not forget the iconic "Get to da choppa!".To my surprise,however,the film isn't really that cheesy,sure it has over-the-top moments here and there,but it actually crates a genuine feeling of suspense throughout nearly the entire length of the film.
The suspense the movie manages to create is also quite subtle at first.The Predator is not revealed to us until about an hour into the film,but we know that he is stalking the group of commandos.
My main complaint is the music.For a lot of scenes it just seems really unnatural,I can't explain it that well,it's just that the music doesn't fit the scene you are watching.The characters are also a problem.Some of them are plain annoying and you won't care much if they die.
The action scenes are very nice,Schwarzenegger throws in a one-liner here and there.The last 15 minutes of the film are also pretty intense.
Overall,this is a very good action/sci-fi/thriller,despite it's flaws.
The suspense the movie manages to create is also quite subtle at first.The Predator is not revealed to us until about an hour into the film,but we know that he is stalking the group of commandos.
My main complaint is the music.For a lot of scenes it just seems really unnatural,I can't explain it that well,it's just that the music doesn't fit the scene you are watching.The characters are also a problem.Some of them are plain annoying and you won't care much if they die.
The action scenes are very nice,Schwarzenegger throws in a one-liner here and there.The last 15 minutes of the film are also pretty intense.
Overall,this is a very good action/sci-fi/thriller,despite it's flaws.
Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo
(1999)
Tasteless,immature and funny as hell
31 December 2012
"Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo" is actually a very funny movie.I'm not familiar with Rob Schneider's other work,but in this movie he turns in a great performance.
The Plot of the film is very implausible and requires a complete suspense of disbelief.The romance story feels forced and unnatural,but that wasn't really the focus of the movie.That,I think,is one of the main reasons the critics were so harsh on this film-"Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo" isn't a clever satire or a cute romantic comedy,it's good old mindless entertainment at it's finest.Sure there are some tasteless jokes in the film,but come on, this isn't a film meant to be taken seriously.
"Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo" is a funny and enjoyable comedy,but nothing more.I recommend it for good laughs.
The Plot of the film is very implausible and requires a complete suspense of disbelief.The romance story feels forced and unnatural,but that wasn't really the focus of the movie.That,I think,is one of the main reasons the critics were so harsh on this film-"Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo" isn't a clever satire or a cute romantic comedy,it's good old mindless entertainment at it's finest.Sure there are some tasteless jokes in the film,but come on, this isn't a film meant to be taken seriously.
"Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo" is a funny and enjoyable comedy,but nothing more.I recommend it for good laughs.
Aliens
(1986)
Different concept than the original-fantastic idea,but hindered by some minor flaws
30 December 2012
One of the main problem of many horror movie franchises is their repetitive nature.Many sequels to horror films,successful enough to spawn them, are usually a rehash of the original with few new ideas.If they decide to take the franchise in a different direction,however,there is a very high chance that it will be an even greater failure(like "Halloween 3",for example).
In this regard,Cameron chose the second path and I must say,"Aliens" is a very well made and entertaining movie.It's a little more action oriented than the original,but that doesn't mean,there aren't suspenseful scenes,either.Unlike the original,Ripley is clearly the protagonist of the film from the very beginning.Her character is further developed and that aspect of the movie was done perfectly.The movie has a higher budget than the first and it is utilized very well.We see more of the aliens and we get more background on them.As I mentioned before,there are more action scenes,which are done very well.
What I didn't like about the film,was that at some points it was kinda over-the-top and cheesy.I have seen this in other Cameron films,such as "Terminator 2:Judgment Day",but the cheesy moments are a distinct part of "The Terminator",but in "Aliens" they stick out like a sore thumb.This is most distinct in the scene where the marines awake from cryogenic sleep.I get,that their behavior is supposed to explain to us,that they don't know what they're up against,but I think Cameron went a little too far.
Overall,"Aliens" is a very well made and entertaining film and while it's not better than the original,it's definitely a worthy sequel.
In this regard,Cameron chose the second path and I must say,"Aliens" is a very well made and entertaining movie.It's a little more action oriented than the original,but that doesn't mean,there aren't suspenseful scenes,either.Unlike the original,Ripley is clearly the protagonist of the film from the very beginning.Her character is further developed and that aspect of the movie was done perfectly.The movie has a higher budget than the first and it is utilized very well.We see more of the aliens and we get more background on them.As I mentioned before,there are more action scenes,which are done very well.
What I didn't like about the film,was that at some points it was kinda over-the-top and cheesy.I have seen this in other Cameron films,such as "Terminator 2:Judgment Day",but the cheesy moments are a distinct part of "The Terminator",but in "Aliens" they stick out like a sore thumb.This is most distinct in the scene where the marines awake from cryogenic sleep.I get,that their behavior is supposed to explain to us,that they don't know what they're up against,but I think Cameron went a little too far.
Overall,"Aliens" is a very well made and entertaining film and while it's not better than the original,it's definitely a worthy sequel.
Alien
(1979)
A very effective and well made horror film
29 December 2012
Warning: Spoilers
Nowadays horror films just throw CG blood and gore in your face or they try to gross you out in some other way.I thought that "Alien" was likely to be the starter of this trend(Aliens that burst out of people's chest- plenty of opportunity for gore).However,I was surprised to discover,that "Alien" is a very well made and brilliantly executed movie.
Although the film was made with a fairly low budget,it does everything in it's power to look like a professional piece of work and in that regard it succeeds greatly.The cinematography is amazing,the camera is always focused in such a way,that when the alien appears,it catches the viewer off guard,even if he was expecting to see the alien in that scene.The perfect example for this is a scene near the end,when Ripley is already aboard the shuttle and thinks the alien is gone.The creature is actually sleeping between some pipes,but they made his head resemble the pipes so well,that I was really shocked when the alien awoke.
Unlike many horror films these days,the characters aren't just cannon fodder.We also have a very likable protagonist-Ellen Ripley.Each character has a distinct personality and I liked how they would often come to conflict,like in the scene,where they are arguing whether or not they should bring Kane back to the ship.
The pacing is a little slow in the first 20 minutes,but I think this is necessary for the sake of introducing us to the characters and creating some build-up.There is a pretty good plot-twist near the end,but I wont spoil it.
The film doesn't just rely on cheap scares.There are a lot of very suspenseful moments and some very disturbing scenes.The scene where the alien kills Lambert,for example.
Alien is a great horror film.It's well made and suspenseful.I strongly recommend it.
Although the film was made with a fairly low budget,it does everything in it's power to look like a professional piece of work and in that regard it succeeds greatly.The cinematography is amazing,the camera is always focused in such a way,that when the alien appears,it catches the viewer off guard,even if he was expecting to see the alien in that scene.The perfect example for this is a scene near the end,when Ripley is already aboard the shuttle and thinks the alien is gone.The creature is actually sleeping between some pipes,but they made his head resemble the pipes so well,that I was really shocked when the alien awoke.
Unlike many horror films these days,the characters aren't just cannon fodder.We also have a very likable protagonist-Ellen Ripley.Each character has a distinct personality and I liked how they would often come to conflict,like in the scene,where they are arguing whether or not they should bring Kane back to the ship.
The pacing is a little slow in the first 20 minutes,but I think this is necessary for the sake of introducing us to the characters and creating some build-up.There is a pretty good plot-twist near the end,but I wont spoil it.
The film doesn't just rely on cheap scares.There are a lot of very suspenseful moments and some very disturbing scenes.The scene where the alien kills Lambert,for example.
Alien is a great horror film.It's well made and suspenseful.I strongly recommend it.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
(2011 Video Game)
Fantastic game,but has some small issues
29 December 2012
"Skyrim" was recommended to me by a friend of mine,who really liked it.I found that strange,as he wasn't a fan of RPGs. I was never that interested in "The Elder Scrolls" games,as I am more into sci-fi,than fantasy,but "Skyrim" left me with a very good impression for "The Elder Scrolls" series,so later I tried "Oblivion" and liked it too,but what does make "Skyrim" a great game?
First of all,you have a really good story,the best story in any Bethesda game,in my opinion.The gameplay is pretty good and as I found out later,the best in "The Elder Scrolls" series.Compared "Oblivion" "Skyrim"'s gameplay mechanics are drastically changed.The leveling system is more straightforward.There are no attributes,instead there are perks,which give bonuses to certain skills-very different from any Bethesda RPG I have seen,but a very good concept.I really liked the magic system in this game,way better that the previous.
The thing I liked the most however,was the enormous world,that you can explore.You will never play the game the same way twice,that is,in my opinion,the best thing about Bethesda's RPGs,you have the freedom to do whatever you want.
So,what's preventing me from giving this game 10/10-the bugs.It's clear,that with such a massive world,there would be bugs.I am playing this on PC,though, and I've observed,that Bethesda's RPGs are more buggy on the 360.Plus,on the PC,there are mods and console commands,that can help you if you get screwed by a game bug.Really,the bugs aren't that big of a problem,but they ruin the overall experience.
First of all,you have a really good story,the best story in any Bethesda game,in my opinion.The gameplay is pretty good and as I found out later,the best in "The Elder Scrolls" series.Compared "Oblivion" "Skyrim"'s gameplay mechanics are drastically changed.The leveling system is more straightforward.There are no attributes,instead there are perks,which give bonuses to certain skills-very different from any Bethesda RPG I have seen,but a very good concept.I really liked the magic system in this game,way better that the previous.
The thing I liked the most however,was the enormous world,that you can explore.You will never play the game the same way twice,that is,in my opinion,the best thing about Bethesda's RPGs,you have the freedom to do whatever you want.
So,what's preventing me from giving this game 10/10-the bugs.It's clear,that with such a massive world,there would be bugs.I am playing this on PC,though, and I've observed,that Bethesda's RPGs are more buggy on the 360.Plus,on the PC,there are mods and console commands,that can help you if you get screwed by a game bug.Really,the bugs aren't that big of a problem,but they ruin the overall experience.
Terminator Salvation
(2009)
Salvation-The Damnation of The Terminator Series
27 December 2012
Warning: Spoilers
I went into this movie with an open mind."Terminator 3:Rise of The Machines" was criticized a lot,but it was a good action film,so I had hopes for "Salvation".Plus,it should have been good,because the people who made this,seem to have gotten what the people's main problem with "Rise of The Machines" was-the tone wasn't serious enough."Terminator:Salvation" it seems,tries to keep a serious tone,but that greatly backfires.Why?Because the movie is nothing more than a poorly constructed amalgamation of action clichés.
The characters are painfully underdeveloped.The scenes,where there should have been character development are cut short.It's like,one character starts a conversation,then there is silence,then the scene cut's away.It's like they cut out parts of the scenes.
The next major problem this movie has is the dialog.Sometimes it's written really stupidly,other times it's incredibly cliché.At some points there are awkwardly long pauses and sometimes the scene cuts away for no reason,as I mentioned above.Some of the acting is downright horrible.Although I haven't watched any of the Batman movies,I can tell that Christian Bale seems to have forgotten,that he is not in a Batman film.
The action scenes are inferior to the previous films and the CGI doesn't seem to help much,either.One major disappointment for me,was that there was no distinct villain,as each of the previous films had one.The T-800 appears for about 10 minutes and does pretty much what all the terminators have done until that point.Skynet appears for a brief time and also,it doesn't do much.
The part where Skynet talks to Marcus is actually not that bad and it made me think,that the ending was going to be good,or at least decent,but alas,there was a major plot hole,that ruined it all.How could have the T-800 survived being covered in molten metal.Plus,it's the alloy they make the terminators from,so I assume you require a higher temperature to melt it,than regular steel,but the T-1000 died after getting dropped in molten metal,that was not in the future and it was a more advanced model.To make matters even worse,the movie ends with one of the biggest clichés ever.
"Terminator:Salvation" lacks any of the qualities of the previous films and was a major disappointment for me.
The characters are painfully underdeveloped.The scenes,where there should have been character development are cut short.It's like,one character starts a conversation,then there is silence,then the scene cut's away.It's like they cut out parts of the scenes.
The next major problem this movie has is the dialog.Sometimes it's written really stupidly,other times it's incredibly cliché.At some points there are awkwardly long pauses and sometimes the scene cuts away for no reason,as I mentioned above.Some of the acting is downright horrible.Although I haven't watched any of the Batman movies,I can tell that Christian Bale seems to have forgotten,that he is not in a Batman film.
The action scenes are inferior to the previous films and the CGI doesn't seem to help much,either.One major disappointment for me,was that there was no distinct villain,as each of the previous films had one.The T-800 appears for about 10 minutes and does pretty much what all the terminators have done until that point.Skynet appears for a brief time and also,it doesn't do much.
The part where Skynet talks to Marcus is actually not that bad and it made me think,that the ending was going to be good,or at least decent,but alas,there was a major plot hole,that ruined it all.How could have the T-800 survived being covered in molten metal.Plus,it's the alloy they make the terminators from,so I assume you require a higher temperature to melt it,than regular steel,but the T-1000 died after getting dropped in molten metal,that was not in the future and it was a more advanced model.To make matters even worse,the movie ends with one of the biggest clichés ever.
"Terminator:Salvation" lacks any of the qualities of the previous films and was a major disappointment for me.
Terminator 2: Judgment Day
(1991)
Two hours of awesomeness
26 December 2012
Warning: Spoilers
When I saw the first movie,I was surprised what an amazing movie James Cameron was able to create with such a small budget.When I went to see "Judgment Day",I was curious to see how Cameron would use a much bigger budget.He uses it to it's full extent.The result is a truly unique movie.
This film focuses more on the characters-The T-101,Sarah and John Connor and they're all likable.I especially liked how the Terminator discovers the value of life,but eventually sacrifices himself in the end.That was one of the most powerful scenes I have seen in a movie.We also have a more intimidating villain-the T-1000.Don't get me wrong,Arnold was still very Intimidating in the first movie,but you can never see the T- 1000 coming,it can change into everything and uses cunning instead of smashing as it's primary tool.
This is probably the most entertaining and fun-to-watch movie I have ever seen.In my review for the first film I mentioned,that you will not feel bored for a single minute while watching,well,you wont feel bored for a single second while watching "Terminator 2: Judgment Day".Sure,the movie has some cheesy moments here and there,but I think that's what gives it it's distinct terminatorness,what makes it so enjoyable.
This film focuses more on the characters-The T-101,Sarah and John Connor and they're all likable.I especially liked how the Terminator discovers the value of life,but eventually sacrifices himself in the end.That was one of the most powerful scenes I have seen in a movie.We also have a more intimidating villain-the T-1000.Don't get me wrong,Arnold was still very Intimidating in the first movie,but you can never see the T- 1000 coming,it can change into everything and uses cunning instead of smashing as it's primary tool.
This is probably the most entertaining and fun-to-watch movie I have ever seen.In my review for the first film I mentioned,that you will not feel bored for a single minute while watching,well,you wont feel bored for a single second while watching "Terminator 2: Judgment Day".Sure,the movie has some cheesy moments here and there,but I think that's what gives it it's distinct terminatorness,what makes it so enjoyable.
Cube Zero
(2004)
Not that bad
25 December 2012
I went in to this movie with extremely low expectations,after seeing what a failure "Cube 2" was.Frankly,I thought "Cube Zero" was going to be even worse.One of the main reasons the first movie was so good,was the fact,that everything was shrouded in mystery.I knew,that "Cube Zero" was going to try to demystify the original and botch up the series even more.To my surprise-it didn't.
The explanation they give us actually seems legit and they carefully leave some things still unknown.That part of the movie was,in my opinion,done flawlessly.The acting was OK for the most part.The gore effects weren't that good and in my opinion,they were unnecessary,but this isn't a really big problem.
There are two things that really handicap the film.
1.The group of cube guinea pigs.Most of the segments involving our new group are very,very similar to the first movie and it really breaks the overall flow.Plus you wouldn't care about those characters-THEY ARE FLAT.I think the scenes involving them could have been shortened.
2.Jax.I hate this character.I really do.This guy is the most stereotypical Bond villain you can think off.I never,ever expected to see such a character in a movie like this.He seems so out of place.What were they thinking?
Although it has some flaws,"Cube Zero" is a good movie and it manages to redeem the mistakes of "Cube 2:Hypercube".
The explanation they give us actually seems legit and they carefully leave some things still unknown.That part of the movie was,in my opinion,done flawlessly.The acting was OK for the most part.The gore effects weren't that good and in my opinion,they were unnecessary,but this isn't a really big problem.
There are two things that really handicap the film.
1.The group of cube guinea pigs.Most of the segments involving our new group are very,very similar to the first movie and it really breaks the overall flow.Plus you wouldn't care about those characters-THEY ARE FLAT.I think the scenes involving them could have been shortened.
2.Jax.I hate this character.I really do.This guy is the most stereotypical Bond villain you can think off.I never,ever expected to see such a character in a movie like this.He seems so out of place.What were they thinking?
Although it has some flaws,"Cube Zero" is a good movie and it manages to redeem the mistakes of "Cube 2:Hypercube".
The Terminator
(1984)
Worthy of it's fame
22 December 2012
I've heard a lot about "The Terminator",about it being one of the greatest action films ever made,all the iconic lines like "I will be back",but I never really had a chance to see it,until now.And I must say,it did not disappoint.
The plot is very creative and although it might seem confusing at first with all the time travel and stuff,the story is quite easy to follow and it sucks you in pretty quickly.You will not feel bored a single minute while watching this movie.The action scenes are awesome and ,in my opinion,choosing Arnold Schwarzenegger for the role of the terminator was ingenious,as emoting isn't exactly his strong suite,but that's exactly what is needed for such a role.
What really surprised me,was how low the budget for this film was-only 6.4 million!When you look at the movie,it seems that far more cash was thrown in to it.I especially liked the stop-motion terminator near the end,it was done extremely well.
Overall,"The Terminator" is a movie worthy of it's reputation,I strongly recommend it.
The plot is very creative and although it might seem confusing at first with all the time travel and stuff,the story is quite easy to follow and it sucks you in pretty quickly.You will not feel bored a single minute while watching this movie.The action scenes are awesome and ,in my opinion,choosing Arnold Schwarzenegger for the role of the terminator was ingenious,as emoting isn't exactly his strong suite,but that's exactly what is needed for such a role.
What really surprised me,was how low the budget for this film was-only 6.4 million!When you look at the movie,it seems that far more cash was thrown in to it.I especially liked the stop-motion terminator near the end,it was done extremely well.
Overall,"The Terminator" is a movie worthy of it's reputation,I strongly recommend it.
Flawed,but not that bad
15 December 2012
Warning: Spoilers
I went to see "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" yesterday.It is one of the most anticipated movies of 2012 and when it finally came out,there was a major difference between the user and critic rating,probably the biggest I have seen on the IMDb.This made me even more curious to see what the movie was like.
To be completely honest,the movie didn't disappoint me,but it wasn't exactly what I was expecting.I haven't read Mr.Tolkien's book,so I don't know how well the movie follows it,but in terms of story it was alright,although there are several things that weren't really explained,but hopefully they will be clarified in the later movies.The film,however,has several fatal flaws,that ruin the overall experience:
1.Too many characters.If you remember,the fellowship of the ring consisted of 9 characters :Frodo,Gandalf,Legolas,Gimley,Aragorn,Boromir,Sam and the other two hobbits.Gimley,the dwarf,was there manly to provide comedic relief.If there is one character like that-it's okay.Now imagine a company of 14 people,well,a hobbit,dwarfs and a wizard,if you want to be precise,and eleven of them are Gimley like characters.You just can't take it seriously with someone constantly falling,belching,breaking chairs,due to their excessive weight and so on,and so on.
2.References to modern things,that you will never,ever see in a film like this.I think "Aladdin" started this trend and sure,back then it was fun,but now it's just plain annoying.Plus,I never,in a million years expected to see this in a Peter Jackson movie,or any movie connected to "The Lord of The Rings" franchise" for that matter.
3.A very,very stupid beginning.I promise you,in the first 30 minutes of "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" you will not be able to take the movie seriously,no matter how hard you try.The whole part is just so over-the-top and cheesy,did they get a different director for that segment,because no sane individual,unless he was under the effect of hallucinogenic substances,could approve of something like this.What were they thinking???
Despite all it's flaws,The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" has a charm to it.You know the movie is flawed,but you just can't bring yourself to hate it.To the film's credit,it actually gets pretty good in the final 20 minutes.From the game of riddles scene to the very end,the movie is a non-stop pleasure cruise.
To be completely honest,the movie didn't disappoint me,but it wasn't exactly what I was expecting.I haven't read Mr.Tolkien's book,so I don't know how well the movie follows it,but in terms of story it was alright,although there are several things that weren't really explained,but hopefully they will be clarified in the later movies.The film,however,has several fatal flaws,that ruin the overall experience:
1.Too many characters.If you remember,the fellowship of the ring consisted of 9 characters :Frodo,Gandalf,Legolas,Gimley,Aragorn,Boromir,Sam and the other two hobbits.Gimley,the dwarf,was there manly to provide comedic relief.If there is one character like that-it's okay.Now imagine a company of 14 people,well,a hobbit,dwarfs and a wizard,if you want to be precise,and eleven of them are Gimley like characters.You just can't take it seriously with someone constantly falling,belching,breaking chairs,due to their excessive weight and so on,and so on.
2.References to modern things,that you will never,ever see in a film like this.I think "Aladdin" started this trend and sure,back then it was fun,but now it's just plain annoying.Plus,I never,in a million years expected to see this in a Peter Jackson movie,or any movie connected to "The Lord of The Rings" franchise" for that matter.
3.A very,very stupid beginning.I promise you,in the first 30 minutes of "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" you will not be able to take the movie seriously,no matter how hard you try.The whole part is just so over-the-top and cheesy,did they get a different director for that segment,because no sane individual,unless he was under the effect of hallucinogenic substances,could approve of something like this.What were they thinking???
Despite all it's flaws,The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" has a charm to it.You know the movie is flawed,but you just can't bring yourself to hate it.To the film's credit,it actually gets pretty good in the final 20 minutes.From the game of riddles scene to the very end,the movie is a non-stop pleasure cruise.
Underrated
14 December 2012
First of all,I would like to point out,that I haven't played any of the "Final Fantasy" games,so I don't know how much this movie follows them.On it's own however the movie is very well made and it's much,much better than a lot of other video game based films like "Street Fighter" or "Super Mario Brothers".
A lot of people complain that the characters are less-then-riveting.In my opinion,that is not the case.I mean,Captain Edwards' squad members were kinda flat,but the other characters were alright.Our protagonist- Aki was very well developed.At first glance General Hein seemed like a stereotypical bad guy,but we get an explanation as to why he is taking such radical measures.
Again,I don't know if the plot has anything to do with the video games,but it was,in opinion,very original and well thought-out.Some may think it's your cliché "aliens have taken over the world and the survivors must fight back with what little they have" plot,but that is not the case.The movie has both fantasy elements(the "spirits")and sci- fi elements(the technology).Sure,you have seen that in other movies,like the force in "Star Wars" and so on,but the idea they went with here is completely different.
"Final Fantasy:The Spirits Within" is most famous for it's animation-and I can see why.This is the first movie to actually use CGI to create genuine looking human beings.It's still good,even by today's standards.The visuals and music work together to create some very amazing and powerful scenes,especially in the ending.
"Final Fantasy:The Spirits Within" is a truly amazing movie.I strongly recommend it.
A lot of people complain that the characters are less-then-riveting.In my opinion,that is not the case.I mean,Captain Edwards' squad members were kinda flat,but the other characters were alright.Our protagonist- Aki was very well developed.At first glance General Hein seemed like a stereotypical bad guy,but we get an explanation as to why he is taking such radical measures.
Again,I don't know if the plot has anything to do with the video games,but it was,in opinion,very original and well thought-out.Some may think it's your cliché "aliens have taken over the world and the survivors must fight back with what little they have" plot,but that is not the case.The movie has both fantasy elements(the "spirits")and sci- fi elements(the technology).Sure,you have seen that in other movies,like the force in "Star Wars" and so on,but the idea they went with here is completely different.
"Final Fantasy:The Spirits Within" is most famous for it's animation-and I can see why.This is the first movie to actually use CGI to create genuine looking human beings.It's still good,even by today's standards.The visuals and music work together to create some very amazing and powerful scenes,especially in the ending.
"Final Fantasy:The Spirits Within" is a truly amazing movie.I strongly recommend it.
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