danieljbarton Reviews

Shadowhunters (2016–2019)

meh

[4/10 · 19 January 2016]

OK, so I absolutely love the books, I've read all TMI, TID and shadowhunter academy stories.

Surprisingly I was introduced to the books via the movie which I loved, for different reasons to the books. Obviously I didn't like all aspects of the movie so I thought a TV show would be better suited. Firstly, I prefer the film actors as these were how I based (and adapted) my view of the characters but I find the budget effects and acting quality an issue in the show IF you try to compare this to the books.

I guess my main point is that no, the film wasn't perfect but was closer to the books, yes the books were perfect and yes the TV show is completely different. Just enjoy it for what it is, a bit of fun :/

Hardball (2001)

deserving of the 'Ship'

[7/10 · 11 May 2015]

This film moved me the first time I watched it years ago and after watching again the same aspects got me, specifically the scene with Jefferson making the trip home alone. You can critique the message, realism and accuracy with this film all you want but it takes a cold hearted person to not get emotional watching that boy scared, struggling for breath! The timing was perfect, acting from the kids was gritty and thankfully avoided coming across as 'too scripted' with great support from Keanu, I say support as for me the kids stole the show.

This film scores higher than similar titles such as 'Coach Carter' as the young actors do a great job of sucking the viewer in while you believe the down on his luck, addictive portrayal from Keanu.

If you're taking the time to read this review typed up at 2.16am then you might want to check out 'Radio' and 'Remember the Titans' for similar films.

Stuck in Love. (2012)

happy to be, 'stuck in love'

[8/10 · 7 May 2015]

Having seen this film a few times now I have to remind myself to wait a little longer between viewings to try and preserve the beauty of the simplicity and complexity of this film. Yes, that is a contradicting statement but well found, the complexity of the characters own journeys could be seen as difficult to project in a relatively short film however the acting is very good, portraying the jubilations justly and the struggles just enough so that they aren't over dramatised. This coupled with the simple acting and feel of the overall experience. The simple telling of the messed up aspects of peoples lives hand in hand with it's greatest joys (love, family, loyalty etc.).

The casting is extremely good, giving life to each character of a well written script by Josh Boone, high praises for Kinnear, Wolff and Liberato. This film is well written, acted and directed even if feeling a little short (possibly adding to the satisfying effect, leaving the viewer wanting more).

Highly recommend along with 'Kevin' and 'The First Time'

Barely Lethal (2015)

it is what it is...

[5/10 · 6 May 2015]

After a viewing at 1am I am pretty satisfied with the overall film, I didn't go in to this expecting a life altering message or acting that would move me, for what it is the film done the job; light, airy, a predictable yet enjoyable watch.

The main draw to this film was the cast, I enjoyed Hailee Steinfeld in Enders Game and thought the somewhat masculine performance would carry well, her commitment was visible and seemed genuine (as much as could be) in the role of a deadly teenage girl. Sophie Turner being another name that caught my eye sadly didn't live up, I feel disappointed with her acting, getting the underlining sense it was half arsed-although the American accent may have been a factor in throwing off her game as well as living up to the stereotypical 'agent' robotic personality. The acting was OK.

This isn't a film I would personally run to tell my friends about, partly due to the shame of a 22 year old man liking chick-flick-esque films but mainly due to the rushed style of structure. The screenplay let this one down, rushed and again, half arsed. The small roles such as Jaime King's annoyed me slightly too but that could be a personal thing.

All in all my verdict is, surprisingly, worth a watch. I never really swear off watching something a second time but this will be one I won't be thinking about again until it shows up on film4. Don't expect too much and you'll have a 'nice' hour and forty minutes :)