Absolutely loved this, the blend of over-the-top bloody action and horror was mixed very nicely. I never played the games so I didn't have any expectations, but it sure felt like a 90s arcade game. Give me more quarters, because I didn't want this one to end.
Reviews
22 Reviews
Malignant
(I) (2021)
Vintage Horror
11 September 2021
The acting isn't good, well get that out of the way first. That aside this is one of the most unique cocktails of the genre I've seen. It blends an 80s horror cheese, with some bloody demented recent characteristics of the genre. A horror movie that has it all, a pleasant surprise that I had a great time with. I'm assuming a lot of the negative reviews are those that went in with preconceived notions and wanted a trash traditional teen pg13 "horror"
Lovecraft Country
(2020)
Disappointed
14 November 2020
The series tried tying together so many ideas in such a short period that it ended up being way too choppy. Every episode feels like its purpose is to highlight racial inequality during the time period, rather than delivering a coherent plot. It focused so much on race that it really hampered the enjoyability of the fantasy aspects.
Snowpiercer
(2020–2024)
Did we want this?
18 May 2020
Did we really need a snowpiercer show, how far can a train ride really go? The main plot so far, a back car passenger being hired to investigate a front car murder, doesn't seem believable. The front car rich want absolutely nothing to do with the back car, I find it hard to believe they would swallow their pride and higher the lone homicide detective when they have police among them. That aside this really feels like a TNT show, horrible cinematography and editing. Not really buying into the characters after one episode either, but we'll give it another shot. Nothing about this seems better than the movie, which on of itself was barely above mediocre.
Gentleman Jack
(2019–2022)
Boring
30 June 2019
I watch most HBO/Starz/Showtime series, and this has to be one of the worst thus far. To be fair I have only watched 4 episodes, but I think that's all I can get through. There is essentially now plot, no action, and minimum engaging dialogue. Maybe you have to know the back story to the life of the woman this show is about, but even the dramatization is hard to get back to. The actresses and actors do a very good job with what they're given, but it's not enough. The set and design are also very good, but it's not enough to keep me coming back to finish the season. I baffled as to how it has such high reviews.
Venom
(2018)
The Way I Wish Marvel Was
6 October 2018
To start things off, I'll say that I am not by any means a huge Marvel fan. I dislike the save the world, bunnies and rainbows feel everything from Antman to Avengers has. With Sony doing something a little darker I was all in! We've seen other successes in non-Disney productions of Marvel characters like Logan, and Deadpool.
The only real complaint I have with the film are the special effects. Non essential special effects seem cheap, one such case deals with a rocket during the opening scene. However, when the special effects come to the main character, Venom, they are done perfectly well. Although it wouldn't change my overall grade more consistency in the special effects department could have increased the films overall feel.
Where this film really strives is with the proformance provided by star Tom Hardy. For most of the film we see the struggle to stay human. That sadness that endures, and the hatred of Venom. The struggle between light and dark is exemplified through Tom/Venom, with a delightful conclusion. In other superhero films the hero usually doesn't go through such a drastic shift, and so the role doesn't require that extra effort in acting.
The film is also getting a lot of flack for being a movie that belongs "in the early 2000s". While this point can be argued it is nice to get away from the cookie cutter format Disney repeatedly puts out. This story does not follow a group of unlikely heros banded together to save the world from an evil with a successful outcome just in the nick of time. This story focuses on 1 man and the pain he endures and overcomes. Venom is a nice change of pace and is just what comic fans need.
The only real complaint I have with the film are the special effects. Non essential special effects seem cheap, one such case deals with a rocket during the opening scene. However, when the special effects come to the main character, Venom, they are done perfectly well. Although it wouldn't change my overall grade more consistency in the special effects department could have increased the films overall feel.
Where this film really strives is with the proformance provided by star Tom Hardy. For most of the film we see the struggle to stay human. That sadness that endures, and the hatred of Venom. The struggle between light and dark is exemplified through Tom/Venom, with a delightful conclusion. In other superhero films the hero usually doesn't go through such a drastic shift, and so the role doesn't require that extra effort in acting.
The film is also getting a lot of flack for being a movie that belongs "in the early 2000s". While this point can be argued it is nice to get away from the cookie cutter format Disney repeatedly puts out. This story does not follow a group of unlikely heros banded together to save the world from an evil with a successful outcome just in the nick of time. This story focuses on 1 man and the pain he endures and overcomes. Venom is a nice change of pace and is just what comic fans need.
Tomb Raider
(2018)
Cliche as ever
17 March 2018
Walking into the theater I had very high hopes. After seeing the trailer, I knew that it was going to be based off the video game that released in 2013. Excited about the return of Laura Croft I may have set my standard a bit high. If you have played the video game you will know that it was a very good story, if you haven't I suggest you go watch the cutscenes on YouTube.
I will start by praising Alicia Vikander, she is by far the highlight of the movie, and one of the few actors that actually do a good job. Most of the acting is horrible, in part ruined by the cliché predictable dialogue. She is both fierce, vulnerable, and strong. Vikander embodies all emotion extremely well and her character progresses through the film. The athletic ability of this Laura Croft is even more visible than in the previous films. Tomb Raider is jam packed with stunts that would put even Indiana Jones to shame. However, the extra effects and stunts do not save this movie.
Along with the lackluster acting from supporting characters, the script focuses too much on developing Laura's backstory, instead of zoning in on this adventure's plot. To again compare it to the video game it is based off, the game has an extended battle between Laura and a main villain Himiko, which isn't even a villain in the film! In summary, this film sacrifices a good plot, which the game had, to develop Laura's character. If you like cliché and predictable action movies than this is for you. I fully expect this to be playing on the Syfy channel within a year and a half. One bright spot of the film was the ending, which does hint that there are more adventures to come. Hopefully next time they can get it right!
I will start by praising Alicia Vikander, she is by far the highlight of the movie, and one of the few actors that actually do a good job. Most of the acting is horrible, in part ruined by the cliché predictable dialogue. She is both fierce, vulnerable, and strong. Vikander embodies all emotion extremely well and her character progresses through the film. The athletic ability of this Laura Croft is even more visible than in the previous films. Tomb Raider is jam packed with stunts that would put even Indiana Jones to shame. However, the extra effects and stunts do not save this movie.
Along with the lackluster acting from supporting characters, the script focuses too much on developing Laura's backstory, instead of zoning in on this adventure's plot. To again compare it to the video game it is based off, the game has an extended battle between Laura and a main villain Himiko, which isn't even a villain in the film! In summary, this film sacrifices a good plot, which the game had, to develop Laura's character. If you like cliché and predictable action movies than this is for you. I fully expect this to be playing on the Syfy channel within a year and a half. One bright spot of the film was the ending, which does hint that there are more adventures to come. Hopefully next time they can get it right!
The Mummy
(2017)
Solid Movie, Bad Title
30 September 2017
First off, everyone giving this movie a 1 star rating is reacting to to the fact that they either expected a 10/10 or went in wanting to hate it. The Mummy offers good acting, special effects, and an effective story-line.
The only "problem" with the movie is its title. Just by associating itself with the Mummy title you go back expecting it to the Brandon Frasier title that we all love. "Curse of Ahmanet" or something similar would have been a more effective title. The other area of improvement is the run-time. By today's blockbuster standards this is a relatively short movie, clocking in under 2hrs. There were areas that could have been expanded, such as detailing the life of Ahmanet in ancient times. I would like it if the story continued through sequels, as there is more that can be explored with the content. I'm not talking about other "Dark Universe" movies. What would enhance this movie further would be the development of characters/plots through a direct sequel.
It is an entertaining title, but could have been improved through more character development and better use of a beautiful Egyptian setting.
The only "problem" with the movie is its title. Just by associating itself with the Mummy title you go back expecting it to the Brandon Frasier title that we all love. "Curse of Ahmanet" or something similar would have been a more effective title. The other area of improvement is the run-time. By today's blockbuster standards this is a relatively short movie, clocking in under 2hrs. There were areas that could have been expanded, such as detailing the life of Ahmanet in ancient times. I would like it if the story continued through sequels, as there is more that can be explored with the content. I'm not talking about other "Dark Universe" movies. What would enhance this movie further would be the development of characters/plots through a direct sequel.
It is an entertaining title, but could have been improved through more character development and better use of a beautiful Egyptian setting.
The Do-Over
(2016)
Sandler's Best Since "Billy Madison"
15 May 2017
It is rare that I watch a comedy, with so many good dramas on T.V, but I was interested to see what Sandler, a childhood favorite actor, was up to. After watching movies that just weren't that funny, (everything since Billy Madison aside from Zohan) I was skeptical. However, after watching the film it would seem that Sandler and Spade are a comedy duo that fits together perfectly.
It was a nice role reversal to see Sandler play the brains of the operation, while Spade played his usual unsuspecting goofball. There were multiple times where I couldn't help myself but to laugh out loud. It is nice to see Sandler target a more adult audience, with some of the crude humor, and re-engage the fans that started watching him when he started out. It is also nice because the film actually has a decent plot, I won't give it away.
I will conclude by saying that if you have ever enjoyed any of Sandler's films, and don't mind crude humor, than you will more than likely enjoy this film. I hope that Sandler and Spade team up again to either reprise their roles, or start another new adventure together.
It was a nice role reversal to see Sandler play the brains of the operation, while Spade played his usual unsuspecting goofball. There were multiple times where I couldn't help myself but to laugh out loud. It is nice to see Sandler target a more adult audience, with some of the crude humor, and re-engage the fans that started watching him when he started out. It is also nice because the film actually has a decent plot, I won't give it away.
I will conclude by saying that if you have ever enjoyed any of Sandler's films, and don't mind crude humor, than you will more than likely enjoy this film. I hope that Sandler and Spade team up again to either reprise their roles, or start another new adventure together.
Sandy Wexler
(2017)
One of Sandler's Worst
15 May 2017
After the surprise which was "The Do-over" I had high hopes for this film. It seemed that Sandler might be back on track to comedy success. However, upon the completion of this film I was left uninterested and found my "funny bone" still itching.
"Sandy Wexler" is an interesting enough character, with his quirks and habits. However, the problem lies not with Sandler's acting or character, but a bland plot and supporting cast. There are very few occasions that I found anything in this film remotely funny. The few comical instances lye with Sandler's character and his unique laugh. This is not a film which I wish to revisit, and will probably quickly forget. You can tell that it is aimed at a younger audience, so he yet again forgets those that grew up watching him.
I had high hopes after watching "The Do-over", but can only hope that the films get funnier from here. Sandler has re-signed with Netflix for another 4 films. It will be interesting to see if the next film is aimed a younger audience, or if he wishes to please those who have matured past the bland routine.
"Sandy Wexler" is an interesting enough character, with his quirks and habits. However, the problem lies not with Sandler's acting or character, but a bland plot and supporting cast. There are very few occasions that I found anything in this film remotely funny. The few comical instances lye with Sandler's character and his unique laugh. This is not a film which I wish to revisit, and will probably quickly forget. You can tell that it is aimed at a younger audience, so he yet again forgets those that grew up watching him.
I had high hopes after watching "The Do-over", but can only hope that the films get funnier from here. Sandler has re-signed with Netflix for another 4 films. It will be interesting to see if the next film is aimed a younger audience, or if he wishes to please those who have matured past the bland routine.
Terminator Genisys
(2015)
7.5/10
10 July 2015
I'll keep this review simple, Terminator Genisys is not a great film like the first two in the franchise (but then again did we expect it to be?). It offers some new ideas, and ties all of the movies together remarkably well. However, I do feel like if you are not a fan of the others, or haven't seen them this decade you may not enjoy the film like you should. This is by no means a stand alone movie. This movie was made to satisfy those who wanted more terminator. If you haven't seen the others I suggest you do so before watching this, and keep in mind the movie is to add onto the franchise, not redefine it. One of the more satisfying parts of the movie is the thinking you have to do without, connecting dots and remembering back to other films to find out how you got where you now are. After watching the movie last night I find myself wanting to watch it again to retrace my steps and find out just how everything connects together.
Mad Max: Fury Road
(2015)
No back story.
18 May 2015
First off, I don't understand why people are rating this a 9/10. It is a descent movie, but not great by any means. The visual aspects, and the special effects are out of this world. However, what reviewers seem to be forgetting is that visuals alone do not make a great movie. The only thing we know about the two main characters is that they lived a bad life and were being used as slaves. The movie follows these two characters which we know nothing about on a car chase for 2 hours, that's it. That being said, the movie felt like a car ride to the beach with relatives. Little dialogue, and not leaving the car for two hours. I believe they may have left out a back story to the characters so that they have material for a prequel in coming years. If you like a well developed story with characters that are developed this is not worth your money at the theater. 7.5/10
The Gambler
(III) (2014)
Underdeveloped
27 December 2014
This is not a terrible film. The story just ends up being underdeveloped, and a bit underwhelming. The movie does not go into detail as to why the main character is in debt to a gangster. You assume that it's his gambling problem that he has struggled with all his life, but they don't touch on the matter at all. Where this movie does have bright spots is in the acting, and overall character development of Walberg. Walberg's character is the kind of guy where you want to put your hands to your face and say "why are you doing this"; which is good! Throughout the movie, the seeming intelligent yet dumb character develops, and comes up with an ingenious solution to his problems.....or does he?
Decent addition
17 June 2014
Warning: Spoilers
"Escape from the Planet of the Apes" is a nice addition to the series. I watched it for the first time last night, after the previous films, and have come to the conclusion that it's good, but not as good as the others. First, the only gripe I have is the hole in the story. Zeira states that Apes where pets of humans in the past, and that through the centuries the Apes then revolted.However, in the previous movies none of the apes knew that humans had ever had any intelligence. The question is, how could this be the way the Apes came to take over when none of the Apes had known this in the previous movies. Zeira even in the third movie sates that it's written in the sacred scrolls, "God has created Apes in his own image." That is contradictory to the idea that they came to power my an overthrow of the humans. This aside it serves as a nice transition further into the series.
Texas Chainsaw
(2013)
A nice addition
9 October 2013
A GOOD HORROR FILM. First off I'd like to say that this is a good horror film especially since it is an addition to a huge series. In order to appreciate this movie you may have to be able to except that there is a flaw in the story. Many of you may be able to guess that yes, it is the year. Without showing the gravestones, the story would have worked well if it was set in the 90's which would have made the age of the characters more believable. That aside, this is a good horror film in for a genre that in all honesty has had way too many flops. This film is everything you expect from a "Texas Chainsaw" movie. Tons of gore that will make you squirm, and a couple scenes that will make you jump, along with a decent story. The concept was sort of similar to Rob Zombie's adaptation to "Halloween" where there is a survivor who was taken away from the family then reunited. I was slightly surprised by decisions made by characters in the movie, and was left satisfied at the end. I'm not sure why there are so many negative reviews, this is a nice addition to the Chainsaw series.
The Tourist
(I) (2010)
Better than people say.
19 September 2013
To start out I would like to add that the number of bad reviews this got shied me away a bit. However, I figured since it had Johnny Depp in it that it had to be semi decent, and that it was. The story line was solid, but could have been better laid out. It takes a little while into the movie to learn why certain things are happening, but eventually things do play themselves out. I also heard from previous reviewers that the story- line was predictable. I for one didn't see what eventually happened happening. It was a surprise ending, that quite frankly I was fine with. There's not a whole lot of action in the movie, as it focuses largely on the acting of Jollie, and Depp. All in all it is a nice drama, that's worth checking out if you're a fan of either of the actors. It's not an award winner by any stretch of the mind, but it's a nice film for a rainy day. If you can get your hands on it for less than 10$ I'd say go for it and enjoy the ride, and the great scenery.
Dredd
(2012)
Expected more.
4 February 2013
Well, to start off i'll say that the only reason I wanted to see the movie was because an Anthrax song was based off the original. That being said I was disappointed there wasn't more action. The premise of the film focuses on Judge Dredd being accompanied to a potential crime scene my a newbie with a special ability(I'll say no more). I expected that this crime scene would only be part of the movie and that we would see a lot more of what Dredd and this newbie had to offer. Well I was wrong, the whole film focuses on this one crime, and is essentially stuck in one building the WHOLE MOVIE. This is what ruined it for me, I like to see many different settings. However, the acting is outstanding, and the special effects are pretty darn good also. The story line was a bit lack luster, and background info is little to none. In all I expected more from this film, but I hope there is a sequel to further the character development.
Merlin
(2008–2012)
Masterful
11 January 2013
This is by far one of, if not the best t.v drama series I've ever seen. It stays true to many authoritarian roots, while spicing it up to keep everyone on their toes. The only thing that may be better than the actual script is the wonderful acting. I look forward to future works from all of these actors as they all did an outstanding job, especially that of Merlin , and the very beautiful Morgana(Katie Mcgrath). The only downfall of the series is that it only lasted five seasons. I wish it could have gone on forever. The ending itself is masterfully done, and could not have been better scripted. My only wish is that BBC/syfy add on to the later years of Merlin's life. I highly recommend this series, you will enjoy it!!!!
Skyfall
(2012)
Another Successful Addition
10 November 2012
Warning: Spoilers
To start off I will say that Craig is by far my favorite bond, and that I enjoy his movies more than the others. Skyfall is a nice addition to the bond franchise, however I expected a little more. After watching the film it's apparent that Ian Fleming is trying to break the mold that current bond films have followed. The first difference which is slight, is there really is no "Bond Girl". In just about all of the films we are accustomed to 007 seducing a gorgeous women and then having her play an essential role in the film. In skyfall however there is no such girl. Bond is then left facing is most recent threat alone. Secondly, it was usually a common theme that bond left England to pursue an external threat. In this installment the threat becomes internal and bond, along with the rest of the secret service is the party being attacked. Unless I am mistaken this is a first for the franchise which may be a positive alternate. My largest critique is that the script was not such that Craig was not able to show his acting skills to the fullest. The biggest disappointment was the lack of twists and turns. Although these are some minor flaws the acting is still superb and Skyfall is without a doubt the front runner for movie of the year. Casino Royal is still my personal favorite.
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