bullet-tooth-tony Reviews

The Iceman (2012)

Waste of A Great True Story

[4/10 · 23 November 2013]

The tale of Richard Kuklinksi is one of the most morbid, fascinating, and utterly disturbing serial killer tales I've ever encountered. The fact that he was a hit-man for the mob only made it a more incredible story.

So enter a great cast of character actors, led by the always tense Michael Shannon... and this film could have been a landmark achievement in both the serial killer and mob genre. Instead it is completely wasted, as the film never even scratches at the depravity Kuklinski indulged in.

Shannon, Evans, and co. all deliver... however the writers completely fail. This story needs to be retold, it's a shame this treatment was so woefully forgettable and mediocre. I look forward to the day that the proper creative talent come across Kuklinski's story. Will keep enjoying Shannon in Boardwalk Empire and other properly developed projects.

Observe and Report (2009)

Ballsy and Hilarious Film!

[10/10 · 26 March 2009]

I saw "Observe and Report" tonight at an advance screening and have to say I was more than impressed. I've been enjoying the similarly casted and styled Apatow produced comedies over the past few years and was expecting to get laughs out of this one, but where I was really surprised was with how many risks this film took.

Seth Rogen's character is not likable- he's cocky, arrogant and flat out rude. But as you see the purity of his intentions you can't help but warm up to him, and by the end you are flat out rooting for him (at least I was).

And the violence... wow, did not see that coming, and I loved every second of carnage they put on screen. It is brutal, and is so unexpected it only adds to the hilarity of this wild film. The violence is very brief though which also adds to the humor to it. And finally, the nudity- hilarious. Flat out hilarious.

I highly suggest this film for fans of riskier and darker comedies- it's one hell of a ride and far more enjoyable then Rogen's last film "Pineapple Express." Warning- it will catch you off guard many times, but I'm betting you'll be happy it did. Do not miss!

Hell Ride (2008)

Don't see all the complaints!

[8/10 · 9 August 2008]

I honestly do not get why so many people are upset with this film. Its rough, its ridiculous, its over the top, and its a great ride! I admit its not film-making that will change the world- but its a gritty exploitation film, and for anyone who's gotten a kick out of "Devils Rejects," "Kill Bill" or the "Desperado" series this is at least worth taking a peak at.

The cast is all great- Bishop, Balfour and Madsen make a cool trio, each stealing the show at different moments, Dennis Hopper really gives a memorable and entertaining performance, and Carradine shines in a very (darkly) funny cameo. Vinnie Jones is good, he could have been given more to do, but he is entertaining and handles his weapon of choice quite expertly. The story, well- its simple. Its a revenge tale, and an excuse for lots of mayhem and carnage to take place. Again, if you want a gritty, rough around the edges exploitation flick, I do not know what else people are expecting. The story serves its purpose, and keeps the audiences entertained for the hour and a half it plays out. The dialogue does get a bit overly cheesy at points, but that really only adds to the charm of this absurd film- it'll make you laugh, it'll make you puzzle, but I never found any lines to be so distracting that I could not enjoy the film.

So see it if you know what you're getting into! There's a hell of a lot of violence, far far far more nudity, disgusting language and a good amount of despicable anti-heroes. For the type of film that it is, it is very well done and very entertaining! I heartily recommend it for a good, demented time at the movies. I only wish it'd get a wider release, Im lucky I got to see it at all!