2023 Watches
A list of anything and everything I watch in 2023.
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- DirectorJames CameronStarsSam WorthingtonZoe SaldanaSigourney WeaverJake Sully lives with his newfound family formed on the extrasolar moon Pandora. Once a familiar threat returns to finish what was previously started, Jake must work with Neytiri and the army of the Na'vi race to protect their home.I'm not a fan of the first Avatar, so imagine my surprise when I really liked this movie. There's a lot to like there - the story is engaging, the action is exciting and well-filmed, and the visuals (especially in 3D) are incredible. I found myself glued to the screen, even when I didn't fully understand what was happening, due to the absolutely amazing visuals. I am so happy I saw this in 3D, and even if I didn't see it in 3D, there's so much to enjoy here in terms of great action and visuals, that I'm sure I would've enjoyed this in 2D regardless. The acting and plot was much better this time around, and while this is by no means a 10 out of 10 movie, I am so happy I went to see this, and this was a great way to ring in the new year.
01/01/23 - DirectorDarren AronofskyStarsBrendan FraserSadie SinkTy SimpkinsA reclusive, morbidly obese English teacher attempts to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter.This movie was amazing. There is very little that I didn't like about it (my only real complain is how one character is seemingly unrealistically mean). Brendan was incredible, and the emotional plot had me and my friends crying multiple times. The performances are mostly incredible, and I found the very human, empathetic story to be one that is truly worth watching. I really liked this, and I can't believe that critics rated it as poorly as they did. I loved this, and I can't wait to watch it again.
01/03/23 - CreatorJack BurdittStarsTim AllenElizabeth MitchellAustin KaneScott Calvin is about to turn 65. Realizing that he can't be Santa forever, he sets out to find a suitable replacement Santa while preparing his family for a new life adventure south of the North Pole.This was on Disney Plus. I liked this show because I hold such intense nostalgia toward the original movies - Tim Allen is incredible, and there is just so much sweetness and entertainment value to be had here. That said, I don't think this was an incredible show, as it feels like a soft-reboot of The Santa Clause 3, and also this show just kind of feels worthless. Not much goes on or happens, and what does happen feels incredible light and fluffy. That said, for a Christmas/holiday show, it was still very fun and silly, and even though I wouldn't call this show good, I would say that I had a good time watching it during the holiday season. So, I am really looking forward to season 2, and I am even looking forward to watching this season again. (I also loved the callbacks to the movies, complete with a few characters here and there making cameos!)
01/05/23 - DirectorGerard JohnstoneStarsAllison WilliamsViolet McGrawRonny ChiengA robotics engineer at a toy company builds a life-like doll that begins to take on a life of its own.This was a fun movie (though I would've enjoyed it more if the people next to me weren't so annoying and texting and talking the entire movie). This movie would've been better if it was rated R with more blood and gore, but for what it was, it was campy and comedic and had a lot of fun, as well as some real charm due to the performance of the Megan character. I wish this movie would've been more violent and terrifying, but the campy tone it had was still really fun, and I am genuinely looking forward to buying this and watching it at home.
01/06/22 - DirectorDennis GanselStarsJason StathamJessica AlbaTommy Lee JonesBishop's most formidable foe kidnaps the love of his life in order to make him complete three impossible assassinations and make them look like accidents.I liked this movie a lot more than when I originally saw it back in the day in 2016. The action isn't the greatest thing I've ever seen, but it is fun to watch, and the movie was interesting enough to keep my interest and keep me engaged. While the movie is obviously low in budget, it is still fun in a cheesy, campy sort of way, and if I had to re-rate it, I'd give it a 6 or 7 out of ten on entertainment value alone.
01/07/23 - DirectorRobert LuketicStarsJim SturgessKate BosworthKevin SpaceyInspired by real events and people, 21 is about six MIT students who become trained to be experts in card counting in Black Jack and subsequently took Vegas casinos for millions in winnings.Saw this on Netflix. This is a fun film - I obviously really liked it when I first saw it, as I rated it a 10. Upon a rewatch I wouldn't rate it that high, but as someone who enjoys black jack and films about gambling, I did still find a lot to like here, especially as the movie deals with college students - another type of demographic that I enjoy watching in my movies. Kevin Spacey was incredible here, and while this movie wasn't as amazing as I thought it was on first viewing, I still had a really fun and enjoyable time with this, and would rate it a 7 or 8 upon rewatch.
01/07/22 - DirectorSimon WestStarsSylvester StalloneLiam HemsworthRandy CoutureMr. Church reunites the Expendables for what should be an easy paycheck, but when one of their men is murdered on the job, their quest for revenge puts them deep in enemy territory and up against an unexpected threat.This movie is much better than the first - there is maybe a little less action, but the action is 100% better in every way - bloodier, more exciting, and the whole movie is just a lot more fun, even though there is really three main action sequences/set pieces. Simon West is a great action director, and this movie is just really fun, with a great fun tone to it that also doesn't take away from the seriousness. My 10/10 rating may be too high - as I rated it when I first saw it back in the day in 2012 - but as an action movie, this is really fun and I'd re-rate it maybe a 7 or 8.
01/09/23
Second Watch: 09/25/23 - after watching "The Expendables 4," I've been rewatching the other movies, and man oh man is this still a fun watch. It might have slightly less action than the first, but the action is miles better, with more blood, more excitement, and more creativity. This isn't the most action packed movie of all time, but it's still so much fun to watch - to enjoy these movies you have to love these actors, and I just love these actors - these movies are like comfort movies to me, and I had a great time rewatching this on 4k Blu-Ray after a few glasses of whiskey. - CreatorDustin Lance BlackStarsAndrew GarfieldSam WorthingtonDaisy Edgar-JonesA devout detective's faith is tested as he investigates a brutal murder seemingly connected to an esteemed Utah family's spiral into LDS fundamentalism and their distrust in the government.Watched this on Hulu. This was an enjoyable enough, but pretty unremarkable show. I thought the plot was interesting, and I liked the use of flashbacks and the overall progression and story it decides to tell, but I do think that, overall, the show was slightly bland. While the true story is undoubtably horrific, this show just felt sort of middling, with not many standout moments. Each episode was about an hour, but they felt much longer than that due to the borderline snails pace. That said, as someone who finds LDS culture and the Mormon religion endlessly fascinating, I probably got more out of this show than someone who doesn't have an interest in that topic - the show goes so deep into Mormon history and culture that I can imagine it alienating most viewers; I, however, found it al very interesting to watch, if unremarkable and unexciting. I am a fan of Andrew Garfield, and his struggle as a faithful LDS man who is thrust into a world he has never known before was interesting; watching his faith be challenged was intense, at parts, and Andrew is a great actor and portrayed it well - however, even with that said, I still don't really think he had any standout, memorable moments, and neither did the show as a whole. And unfortunately, that's the thing - if I had to describe this show in one word, it would be: unmemorable.
01/12/23 - DirectorJean-François RichetStarsGerard ButlerMike ColterTony GoldwynA pilot finds himself caught in a war zone after he's forced to land his commercial aircraft during a terrible storm.This movie was surprisingly intense - the trailer was really cheesy, but imagine my surprise when actual movie was a very high quality production. Really great drama, an intense plane crash sequence - the movie does slow down a bit after the plane crashes, but it picks right up and delivers a really exciting final 45 minutes just packed with action and suspense. Gerard Butler is great here, and I just can't get over how well directed this movie was - I'll even say that I was a fan of the handheld, shaky camera here, as it wasn't overbearing and it felt very natural and added to the intensity. This was a good film!
01/14/23 - DirectorPatrick HughesStarsSylvester StalloneJason StathamJet LiBarney augments his team with new blood for a personal battle: to take down Conrad Stonebanks, the Expendables co-founder and notorious arms trader who is hell bent on wiping out Barney and every single one of his associates.A very okay film. The action is very tame, uninspired, and bloodless due to the PG-13 rating - none of it is memorable, and none of it es very exciting; at the least, the action is slightly entertaining, but very neutered and distracting due to the lack of blood and gore. However, this movie was the funniest out of the 3, with the most entertaining cameos, and the best villain - Mel Gibson was fantastic here, and he absolutely steals the show and is worth watching this movie for. Antonio Banderas was also entertaining enough. I hated all the new characters, but all of the classic action heroes we know and love were great, and Stallone was particularly good here as well. That said, the more watered down action really dragged this movie down, and it's by no means as good as the first two.
01/16/23
Rewatch started on 09/26/23 - finished on 09/27/23: Honestly, this isn't a good film. It's fine and okay, but the action is horrible filmed and edited, and is extremely incomprehensible. The fact that the movie focuses on the new actors makes it almost indefensible, with the entire 2nd act of this movie being as boring as possible. However, Sly, Statham, Snipes, and Gibson are all good - Banderas is especially entertaining as well. I just can't defend how poorly filmed the action is, tho - that makes this movie so, so poor. It's an okay movie, but when rewatching the films, I think I'll stick to 1, 2, and 4 - clearly the superior films in the series. - DirectorNicholas D. JohnsonWill MerrickStarsTim GriffinAva Zaria LeeNia LongAfter her mother goes missing, a young woman tries to find her from home, using tools available to her online.I was literally on the edge of my seat from beginning to end of this movie. I didn't think this was the greatest film of all time, but god was it thrilling. The acting wasn't the greatest, and I did find a large majority of the movie to be more enjoyable if you suspend your disbelief, but other than that I don't have many complaints. I thought this was absolutely suspenseful and unpredictable, and I cannot wait to buy this and watch it again.
01/19/23
2nd watch on 03/13/23 - I watched this on Amazon Prime with my mom and liked it even more the second time; this movie is edited to perfection, with such a great style and soundtrack to it that just gets your blood pumping. All the twists and turns work so well, and watching it when you already know what's happening really enhances the experience - you pick up on so much. I just really love this movie, and even after a 2nd watch I can't wait to see it a third time. - DirectorMartin BrestStarsAl PacinoChris O'DonnellJames RebhornA prep school student needing money agrees to "babysit" a blind man, but the job is not at all what he anticipated.I rented this on Amazon Prime; while I love Al Pacino, I honestly wasn't a huge fan of this movie. I mean, it was okay, but it wasn't necessarily my cup of tea. The story didn't really resonate with me that much, and I honestly found Chris O'Donnell to be a pretty poor actor. I loved Phillip S. Hoffman, however, and obviously Pacino was good - not as great as I've seen him be - but good. I just found the plot to be a little lackluster, and I really wasn't a fan of the whole "Did you see these people do this thing" plotline, as I really didn't think it fit into the overarching plot of the film very well. That said, I'm glad I finally watched this movie, even if I wasn't a huge fan. That said, I was pretty intoxicated when watching this movie, to be quite honest, which may have effected my impression of it, so I fully plan on watching this again during the year to see if my opinion on it changes.
01/20/23 - DirectorMikael HåfströmStarsSylvester StalloneArnold Schwarzenegger50 CentWhen a structural-security authority finds himself set up and incarcerated in the world's most secret and secure prison, he has to use his skills to escape with help from the inside.I watched this with my parents on HBO Max - my pick for movie night since I haven't seen it in years, and honestly, we really enjoyed it. It wasn't necessarily action packed, but it was really suspenseful and a lot of fun. Seeing Stallone in action trying to plan jail heists was really cool, and watching both him and Arnold on screen together was an absolute joy to watch. The movie is by no means filled with great action, but I found the overall premise and plot fun enough, and Stallone and Arnold endlessly entertaining - this is literally brainless fun, and I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. I was never bored, and that's more than I can say for a lot of movies.
01/22/23 - DirectorAdrian GrunbergStarsSylvester StallonePaz VegaSergio Peris-MenchetaRambo must confront his past and unearth his ruthless combat skills to exact revenge in a final mission.I watched this on Netflix before it was removed on Jan. 31 - I haven't seen it since I saw it in theatres when it was originally released, and I decided to watch it because I've been in the mood for cheesy action films. I don't remember being a huge fan of this when it released, due to the relatively small amount of action in this when you consider the overall run time, but upon a rewatch, I found it entertaining enough knowing what I was getting into. Yes, there's only about 10 real minutes of action in this movie, but man oh man does it deliver with all the violence, gore, and brutality of a horror film - it's about what you'd expect from a Rambo film, and it's glorious. I also just really enjoy Stallone, and seeing him in action, even outside of action scenes, is really fun. The movie has a twist that I really didn't expect, and while the plot is pretty generic and nothing we haven't seen before, for a Rambo action movie, it delivers pretty much what you want - I only wish there was much more action in the movie, but the sheer brutality of the action does make the long build up pretty worth it. For what this is, I enjoyed it, and plus, I was in the mood for it, which probably made me enjoy it more than I should have.
01/22/23 - DirectorSylvester StalloneStarsSylvester StalloneJulie BenzMatthew MarsdenIn Thailand, John Rambo joins a group of mercenaries to venture into war-torn Burma, and rescue a group of Christian aid workers who were kidnapped by the ruthless local infantry unit.I watched this on Netflix since it was going to be removed on Jan. 31, and plus, I've been on a bit of a Stallone kick lately, trying to relive the good old days when I first started watching his films back in middle and high school. This is probably, besides First Blood, the best Rambo film, and I really enjoy it. It's brutal, it's intense, it's dark and angry, as it should be, as that's who Rambo is. This movie literally doesn't hold back, and it's a wonder it has an R rating and not an NC-17. Stallone is amazing here, playing Rambo to perfection, and I really like the story this movie decides to tell - it's story and drama forward. And of course, when the action hits, it hit as hard as a freight truck, packed with enough blood and gore to make Jigsaw weep. This is a really fun action movie, and a really dramatic, intense one, and this is a must see for all Rambo fans - this is one of my favorite action movies without a doubt.
01/23/23 - DirectorKyle Edward BallStarsLucas PaulDali Rose TetreaultRoss PaulTwo children wake up in the middle of the night to find their father is missing, and all the windows and doors in their home have vanished.Hated it. Beyond boring. This isn't a movie - it's a random collection of shots. I didn't enjoy this at all, and I have my complete thoughts in my full review. I saw this in theatres with two friends and they found themselves scared, but I just found myself bored - I will never watch this again.
01/24/23 - DirectorDavid AyerStarsArnold SchwarzeneggerSam WorthingtonTerrence HowardMembers of an elite DEA task force find themselves being taken down one by one after they rob a drug cartel safe house.Hated this movie. A 5 is generous when I originally rated it, and I would rate it lower upon rewatch. The dialogue is absolutely atrocious, the action is practically nonexistent and, when there is action, it's not well directed. David Ayer is just an awful director in almost every regard. The characters are also horrifically unlikable, and as much as I loved Arnold, even his character was just bizarre in here. It is obvious that his character was gonna go one way and studio interference made him go another, due to the convoluted and confusing story. Just a really awful, confusing mess of a movie that I will 100% never watch again, it's irredeemable.
01/25/23 - DirectorWalter HillStarsSylvester StalloneJason MomoaChristian SlaterAfter watching their respective partners die, a New Orleans hitman and a Washington, D.C. detective form an alliance in order to bring down their common enemy.Ehhhh, I may have been too generous with my original rating of 7 when I first saw this. Honestly, I don't really like this movie. There is not much action - sure, there are some shootings (the opening scene, for example), but it doesn't really equate to action. There is a good fight out with Stallone in a bathtub where he definitely hits hard, and there's of course the final fight, but none of it is really impactful or memorable, and the story is just pretty lame, with a bunch of random nudity that just felt unnecessary. Also, the movie just looked all around cheap with bad direction. Yeah, I just didn't really like this one, as much as I like Stallone, and as entertaining as he was to watch.
01/25/23 - DirectorKim Jee-woonStarsArnold SchwarzeneggerForest WhitakerJohnny KnoxvilleThe leader of a drug cartel busts out of a courthouse and speeds to the Mexican border, where the only thing in his path is a sheriff and his inexperienced staff.This movie was actually really entertaining, with high quality direction, acting, and a pretty engaging, if basic, story. There are a good amount of action scenes throughout, even if Arnold doesn't really get into the action until the end, but the wait is 100% worth it - the last 40 minutes are really fun, filled with great, high octane, and bloody shootouts - yes, this movie is over the top bloody, but I loved it. This movie also is just really fun - it doesn't take itself seriously at all which I loved. This is just a really fun movie, and I really enjoyed it.
01/27/23 - DirectorAntoine FuquaStarsDenzel WashingtonMarton CsokasChloë Grace MoretzA man who believes he has put his mysterious past behind him cannot stand idly by when he meets a young girl under the control of ultra-violent Russian gangsters.This was actually a pretty good movie. More of a drama than an action film, I originally watched this back when it came out in 2014 (when I was in college), and so I decided to rewatch it with my parents since we are rewatching a bunch of action movies together. And this actually was good. It didn't have a ton of action, but Denzel Washington is just incredible here - he's an effortless actor - and he just elevates this movie so much, adding so much intensity and coolness to the drama and the action. This isn't an action heavy film, but I didn't mind because of how absorbed I was in the drama. I didn't originally like this movie too much when I first saw it due to the fact that it isn't action heavy, but since I knew what to expect this time around I enjoyed it much more. Chloe Grace Moretz is also amazing here, and I wish she was in it much more. Overall, this is a good movie, made even better due to Denzel. I would definitely watch this again, and I'm excited to watch the sequel.
01/28/23 - DirectorScott MannStarsGrace Caroline CurreyVirginia GardnerMason GoodingWhen a high-rise climb goes wrong, best friends Becky and Hunter find themselves stuck at the top of a 2,000-foot TV tower.This was an okay film - it was thrilling at times, but for a large majority of it, it just felt like two women sitting on top of a really tall building. It does have its moments for sure, but as a whole I thought this was just okay - it did have me on the edge of my seat a few times, but I didn't find this spectacularly thrilling like I thought I would.
01/29/23 - DirectorRawson Marshall ThurberStarsDwayne JohnsonNeve CampbellChin HanA security expert must infiltrate a burning skyscraper, 225 stories above ground, when his family is trapped inside by criminals.I actually enjoyed this more than I thought I would. It's immediately forgettable (as in you'll literally forget you watched it as soon as the credits roll), but while you're watching this, it's pretty fun. The Rock has an interesting twist about his character that adds some needed vulnerability, and the whole movie looks pretty cool in terms of visuals and direction - I really liked the look of the skyscraper, as well, and it was fun exploring the interior during the movie. There is some good action here too, with the first fist fight being the standout. The rest of the action in terms of fighting and shootouts isn't handled as well as it was during the first fight, but seeing The Rock traverse the burning building and trying to save his family was entertaining. This isn't anything fantastic, but it's fun while it lasts.
01/29/23 - DirectorF. Gary GrayStarsGerard ButlerJamie FoxxLeslie BibbA frustrated man decides to take justice into his own hands after a plea bargain sets one of his family's killers free.Besides the ending, I really enjoyed this movie. Gerard Butler is so incredible here - charismatic and diabolical - and watching him just play this villain who is always two steps ahead of everyone is so much fun. This movie is really clever, and just a straight up thrill ride from beginning to end.
01/29/23 - DirectorAntoine FuquaStarsDenzel WashingtonPedro PascalAshton SandersRobert McCall serves an unflinching justice for the exploited and oppressed, but how far will he go when that is someone he loves?I think I enjoyed the first one more, but I still liked this movie. It had probably less action than the first, and I feel like it felt more random and less focused - the first movie had a better throughline with Chloe Grace Moretz's character. That said, Denzel is still amazing here, as always, with plenty of show stealing scenes, and the action, when it hits, is entertaining, I just wish there was more of it.
01/30/22 - DirectorBrandon CronenbergStarsAlexander SkarsgårdMia GothCleopatra ColemanJames and Em Foster are enjoying an all-inclusive beach vacation in the fictional island of La Tolqa, when a fatal accident exposes the resort's perverse subculture of hedonistic tourism, reckless violence and surreal horrors.I enjoyed this movie for the most part. Mia Goth and Alexander were amazing, and the movie was intriguing, if unbelievable. I really liked the movies and the visuals, as well. I do think this movie could've been better if they really leaned into the premise of people being able to do whatever they wanted consequence free, but for what this is I had a good time with it and will definitely buy it on Blu-Ray.
01/31/22 - DirectorM. Night ShyamalanStarsDave BautistaJonathan GroffBen AldridgeWhile vacationing, a girl and her parents are taken hostage by armed strangers who demand that the family make a choice to avert the apocalypse.This movie was ehhhh all around. Bad acting from almost everyone except the little girl and Bautista; the movie had its thrilling moments, but the terrible acting, unnatural reactions, and horrible dialogue really took me out. And that's really my biggest complaint. The climax was exciting enough, I just wish the performances and script were as strong as the suspense.
02/02/23 - DirectorPaul GreengrassStarsTom HanksBarkhad AbdiBarkhad AbdirahmanThe true story of Captain Richard Phillips and the 2009 hijacking by Somali pirates of the U.S.-flagged MV Maersk Alabama, the first American cargo ship to be hijacked in two hundred years.I watched this on HBO Max. I obviously loved this movie when I first saw it, hence the 10 out of 10 rating. I haven't rewatched it since it originally came out in 2013, and upon rewatch I do still like this movie, but I do have some slight complaints. This is still a really well directed film with great performances all around. This movie is also beyond thrilling and intense - my only complaint is that the film does slow down toward the second half whenever the scenery moves from the big ship to the little life boat. That said, the movie is still intense, just not as intense as it was when everything was taken place on the big boat. Also, this movie is a touch too long - it could've been under two hours. However, I still really like this movie and I'm glad I watched it again.
02/04/23 - DirectorDuncan JonesStarsTravis FimmelPaula PattonBen FosterAs an Orc horde invades the planet Azeroth using a magic portal, a few human heroes and dissenting Orcs must attempt to stop the true evil behind this war.What a boring, awful film. There's barely an action, so you're just watching bad actors engage in boring conversations that you don't care about for more than half of the film, and when there is action, it's so shaky and hard to see that you might as well not even be watching this. I feel like I was way too generous with my original rating of a five, upon rewatch I'd honestly give it a 3 or a 4. I don't despise this movie, but I really don't think I'll ever watch it again just because it's so boring that it's hard to sit through.
02/07/23 - DirectorKevin SmithStarsShannen DohertyJeremy LondonJason LeeBoth dumped by their girlfriends, two best friends seek refuge in the local mall.As much as I love Kevin Smith, I didn't find much to enjoy here. Like, it was an okay film, and I'll probably rewatch it, but it just felt like it was missing something. I liked the 90s setting and the fact that it takes place in a mall, but I thought the acting was pretty poor, and the dialogue was shockingly uninteresting and pedestrian. I also didn't find this movie that funny. Usually Kevin Smith can write some really insightful stuff, but I didn't really get that here. I didn't despise this movie, but I can't really say that I liked it, either.
02/09/23 - DirectorNicolai FuglsigStarsChris HemsworthMichael ShannonMichael Peña12 Strong tells the story of the first Special Forces team deployed to Afghanistan after 9/11; under the leadership of a new captain, the team must work with an Afghan warlord to take down the Taliban.I watched this on Netflix. With the 4 rating I must've really disliked this movie when I first saw it, but I liked it a lot more the second time around. Chris Hemsworth is great here, as is all the acting I'd say. I really enjoyed watching the camaraderie of the soldiers, and I just enjoy military films, so I have a bias to enjoy this. I will say that the action is pretty disappointing and very generic, and surprisingly bloodless, which was disappointing. The aerial shots of bombs dropping were cool thought. That said, I enjoyed this movie a lot more upon rewatch and would rate it a 6 or 7.
02/10/23 - DirectorZach CreggerStarsGeorgina CampbellBill SkarsgårdJustin LongA woman staying at an Airbnb discovers that the house she has rented is not what it seems.I love this movie, but I unfortunately watched it over a friends house where there were some distractions in terms of people talking throughout the movie. Lets just say it wasn't the optimal viewing experience. That said, for a rewatch it wasn't terrible, especially since I already got the full experience in the theatre when it originally came out. Plus, I really do love this movie, so I was glad to see it again.
02/14/23 - DirectorAdam WingardStarsDan StevensSheila KelleyMaika MonroeA soldier introduces himself to the Peterson family, claiming to be a friend of their son who died in action. After the young man is welcomed into their home, a series of accidental deaths seem to be connected to his presence.This movie is great, with a really cool soundtrack and an even cooler main character. There's just so much to love here, and this entire movie just oozes cool. I haven't seen this since college in 2014, and rewatching it makes me realize why I fell in love with it and why I wanted to act like Dan Stevens, because he's just so darn cool in this movie. A great film, and I love it.
02/16/23 - DirectorNeil JordanStarsLiam NeesonDiane KrugerJessica LangeIn late 1930s Bay City, a brooding, down on his luck detective is hired to find the ex-lover of a glamorous heiress.I didn't hate this movie as much as others seem to be. Sure, it wasn't the most exciting film, but I liked Liam Neeson in it, and I really enjoyed the set and costume design a lot, as well as the 1930s L.A. setting. There's a lot of drinking and smoking, which I also liked, and the main mystery was interesting enough to keep me invested. I didn't love this movie, but I enjoyed it for what it was.
02/17/22 - DirectorLauren HadawayStarsIsabelle FuhrmanAmy ForsythDiloneA college freshman joins her university's rowing team and undertakes an obsessive physical and psychological journey to make it to the top varsity boat, no matter the cost.I watched this on Amazon Prime thru the Showtime app. really liked this movie. Had an electrifying soundtrack with a mix of intense classical and retro songs that just really made the movie feel super intense. I also really like movies about students, so this was right up my alley. Isabelle Fuhrman was great here, playing a Novice college rower who cares less about the sport and more about being the best at everything she does. And since I know people like that in real life, I found her portrayal fascinating as she risks life and limb to simply prove to herself and others that she's the best. I just really found this movie interesting, and it had me hooked. While I wish the ending was a little tighter, and perhaps that the plot was a little tighter as well, I know this is more of a character study than anything, and I just really liked this movie. The editing, direction, all of it was great. The dialogue fell a little flat at times, as did certain scenes that could've probably been edited out, but other than that, I really, really liked this movie a lot, and I can't wait to see it again.
02/18/23 - DirectorCarlota PeredaStarsLaura GalánRichard HolmesCarmen MachiAn overweight teen is bullied by a clique of cool girls poolside while holidaying in her village. The long walk home will change the rest of her life.I watched this on Hulu. While I enjoyed this movie, I don't think it picked up as much steam as I would've liked it to. I thought this was going to be a revenge film, but it's really not. It's basically a drama about a chubby girl, and when her bullies get kidnapped by a psychopath, she has to decide whether or not to tell anyone. It's intriguing, but it could've went in so many other interesting places than it does. That said, I did still enjoy this movie for what it was. The acting was really good, and it did keep me interested in what would happen next. This could've been one of the greats, though, if the director allowed the story to go in the dark and disgusting places they were teasing.
02/19/23 - DirectorClint EastwoodStarsClint EastwoodPatrick L. ReyesCesar De LeónA ninety-year-old horticulturist and Korean War veteran turns drug mule for a Mexican cartel.This was a really good movie - I watched it on HBO Max. It's less a thriller and more of a character study and a drama, and I just really enjoyed it. Clint Eastwood is amazing here, and I found the story really engaging and the concept interesting. I'd definitely watch this again.
Started on 02/19/23 - finished on 02/20/23 - DirectorAneesh ChagantyStarsSarah PaulsonKiera AllenSara SohnChloe, a teenager who is confined to a wheelchair, is homeschooled by her mother, Diane. Chloe soon becomes suspicious of her mother and begins to suspect that she may be harboring a dark secret.I watched this on Hulu, and I really didn't enjoy it as I found it extremely predictable. From the beginning I knew what was happening and where the story was going, and I was right. That said, I did like the editing and the music, as it was intense, and the movie did have some thrilling moments, but overall I found this disappointing.
02/20/23 - DirectorPeyton ReedStarsPaul RuddEvangeline LillyMichael DouglasScott Lang and Hope Van Dyne are dragged into the Quantum Realm, along with Hope's parents and Scott's daughter Cassie. Together they must find a way to escape, but what secrets is Hope's mother hiding? And who is the mysterious Kang?I really loved this film - it was just a straight up science fiction adventure, and I had a ton of fun with it. The world building was fantastic, Paul Rudd was entertaining, and the cast had a really good chemistry. I didn't think the villain was all that great, but he has potential and I'm excited to see where the story plays out.
02/24/23 - DirectorElizabeth BanksStarsKeri RussellAlden EhrenreichO'Shea Jackson Jr.An oddball group of cops, criminals, tourists and teens converge on a Georgia forest where a huge black bear goes on a murderous rampage after unintentionally ingesting cocaine.I didn't like this movie - I thought it was really boring, bloodless, and focused more on boring human characters than the titular cocaine bear. The dialogue was annoying, as were the characters, and since most of the violence occurred offscreen, I didn't even get to enjoy that. However, since I saw this on my birthday, I did kind of enjoy it on that front.
02/24/23 - DirectorGuy RitchieStarsJason StathamAubrey PlazaCary ElwesSpecial agent Orson Fortune and his team of operatives recruit one of Hollywood's biggest movie stars to help them on an undercover mission when the sale of a deadly new weapons technology threatens to disrupt the world order.I honestly loved this movie. Fantastic editing and directing, with a great, adrenaline pumping soundtrack. Ritchie is an incredible director, and I just love his trademarked directing style. Statham is also great here, really funny, and really great in the action sequences. Everyone is also good here - with Plaza standing out. I wrote a full review that has my thoughts, but overall I just really loved this movie and I cannot wait to see it again.
03/06/23 - DirectorMatt Bettinelli-OlpinTyler GillettStarsCourteney CoxMelissa BarreraJenna OrtegaIn the next installment, the survivors of the Ghostface killings leave Woodsboro behind and start a fresh chapter in New York City.I thought this was okay. For whatever reason I'm not too big a fan of these newer Scream movies, but perhaps I need to watch both of them again to get a more accurate opinion. I did like this, since Scream movies are almost always enjoyable, but I thought something was just missing from this. I didn't think the NY backdrop was utilized to its fullest potential, and I didn't think that the bodycount was as high as it could've been. I thought a lot of the kills were lackluster, and I thought the 3rd act was pretty dull and dragged. However, I did like the acting (except for one person), I liked how brutal Ghostface is, and once again, the movie is fun - I just didn't enjoy it was much as I did the original 4.
03/09/23 - DirectorScott BeckBryan WoodsStarsAdam DriverAriana GreenblattChloe ColemanAn astronaut crash lands on a mysterious planet only to discover he's not alone.This movie isn't good, but it is somewhat entertaining. I mean, it's Adam Driver taking care of a little girl while shooting dinosaurs - what you see is what you get, so what more is there to say? I was entertained by this movie, and I'm looking forward to seeing it again - something I may do sooner rather than later.
03/10/23 - DirectorKimberly PeirceStarsChloë Grace MoretzJulianne MooreGabriella WildeA shy girl, outcast by her peers and sheltered by her religious mother, unleashes telekinetic terror on her small town after being pushed too far at her senior prom.I haven't seen this movie since, probably, high school or early college, and when I first saw it I didn't really enjoy it - I found it tragic and depressing, which even though is the point, didn't make for a fun experience for me. However, I for some reason got an itch to rewatch it, and I enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would - on rewatch, I'd probably give it a 7. It's still sad, but it's purposeful; instead of a horror movie it's more of a high school drama for the majority of the running time, which I really enjoyed, and it's even pretty sweet at times before the inevitable tragedy hits. And when it does, it does offer some entertainment value in terms of bloody horror violence. Chloe Grace is great here - I'm a fan of hers, and I really enjoyed watching her, and I thought that Ansel Elgort was really good and charming as well. Julianne Moore (if that's how you spell her name) I feel like was overacting a little big - I wasn't a huge fan of her here, but overall I actually enjoyed this movie upon rewatch more than I thought I would.
03/13/23 - DirectorAneesh ChagantyStarsJohn ChoDebra MessingJoseph LeeAfter his teenage daughter goes missing, a desperate father tries to find clues on her laptop.I watched this movie on Prime with my mom - when I first watched it, I wasn't a fan, but after being such a huge fan of Missing I wanted to give this another shot, and man, I really loved it on 2nd watch. This is more of a drama while I feel Missing is more of a thriller, but even so this is still such a twisty, turny mystery that kept me and my mom on the edge of our seat. This was also a more emotional experience than Missing, as I feel like the father and daughter relationship was extremely relatable and easy to connect with. John Cho was absolutely incredible here as well - overall, just an amazing movie that I absolutely loved.
03/14/23 - DirectorBrian De PalmaStarsSissy SpacekPiper LaurieAmy IrvingCarrie White, a shy, friendless teenage girl who is sheltered by her domineering, religious mother, unleashes her telekinetic powers after being humiliated by her classmates at her senior prom.Honestly, I enjoyed the remake more, but this was still good. I feel like this movie was really rushed, without as much build up as the remake - however, De Palma's style is really great here, with the shower scene and the prom scene being standouts. The editing is great, and the scene with Carrie and her date dancing while the camera spins around them is borderline masterful. I also loved the use of color, and thought Spacek was amazing in her role, especially during her rampage when she is just wide eyes murdering everyone. I didn't love this movie, but I did find a lot to enjoy.
03/14/23 - DirectorDavid CarsonStarsAngela BettisPatricia ClarksonRena SoferCarrie White is a lonely and painfully shy teenage girl with telekinetic powers who is slowly pushed to the edge of insanity by frequent bullying from both her classmates and her domineering, religious mother.I actually loved this movie, and because of the length I originally wasn't looking forward to it - however, I actually adored the long running time because I felt as if the build up was really well earned, with so much substance through the entire movie. I really loved the pacing and all the extra content this movie had when compared to the other two films, and I honestly loved Angela Bettis in the role - she's no doubt my favorite Carrie. She was shy and unassuming, but also surprisingly assertive - her blank stare as the chaos is unfolding all around her during her rampage is masterful. Sure, this movie is cheesy due to the early 2000s influence, and the special effects might not be the best (in fact, they're pretty bad due to this being a made for TV film), but I didn't mind the bad special effects, and I am a sucker for that early 2000s look and feel, so I really adored this movie and it's my favorite of the Carrie films.
03/15/23 - DirectorDavid F. SandbergStarsZachary LeviAsher AngelJack Dylan GrazerThe film continues the story of teenage Billy Batson who, upon reciting the magic word "SHAZAM!", is transformed into his adult superhero alter ego, Shazam.I actually really loved this movie - I thought it was a ton of fun, and I laughed hard from beginning to end. I was just consistently entertained, and what more could I have asked for other than that? Just extremely entertaining for me.
03/17/23
Second watch on 03/31/23 - DirectorBrad AndersonStarsHalle BerryEvie ThompsonAbigail BreslinWhen a veteran 911 operator takes a life-altering call from a teenage girl who has just been abducted, she realizes that she must confront a killer from her past in order to save the girl's life.This was a pretty good film - it was hard to watch for a lot of the time for me, as a majority of this movie is basically a girl trapped in a car being kidnapped, crying for help while on the phone with the police, but this is still an intense thriller, with a very satisfying ending. Barry and Breslin were great here, too, and overall I did like this.
03/18/23 - DirectorGeorge ClooneyStarsPaul GiamattiGeorge ClooneyPhilip Seymour HoffmanAn idealistic staffer for a new presidential candidate gets a crash course on dirty politics during his stint on the campaign trail.This movie was actually great. It was a really good political drama, with fantastic acting from literally everyone involved. There's also a lot of good sensual romance here, and then the movie turns into an intense political thriller, and the ante is just upped. I just really loved this movie, especially as a fan of Ryan Gosling, and I'm honestly looking forward to seeing this again (also, goes without saying, PSH was amazing here).
03/19/23 - DirectorJoachim TrierStarsRenate ReinsveAnders Danielsen LieHerbert NordrumThe chronicles of four years in the life of Julie, a young woman who navigates the troubled waters of her love life and struggles to find her career path, leading her to take a realistic look at who she really is.This was a very well directed movie, with a lot to like, but it was pretty depressing, if I'm being honest. In that respect, it did feel realistic, but I can't say I loved the ending. That said, there is still a lot to like here, and the drama of the story is very watchable - I was invested and wanted to see where the plot and characters would end up. However, I do wish I liked this more than I did.
03/19/23 - DirectorGlenn FicarraJohn RequaStarsSteve CarellRyan GoslingJulianne MooreA middle-aged husband's life changes dramatically when his wife asks him for a divorce. He seeks to rediscover his manhood with the help of a newfound friend, Jacob, learning to pick up girls at bars.This is a really fun movie - Ryan Gosling and Steve Carell are amazing in this, and the movie just has a really great sense of fun to it while also delivering drama and heart in spades. There were some small twists here and there that also caught me off guard - this is just a light, entertaining film, and after years of not rewatching it, as I didn't initially like it that much, I'm glad I decided to give this another go.
03/20/23 - DirectorChad StahelskiStarsKeanu ReevesMichael NyqvistAlfie AllenAn ex-hitman comes out of retirement to track down the gangsters who killed his dog and stole his car.This is a well-directed, entertaining action film. It has a bit too much gun-fu for my liking, with not many hand to hand combat sequences, which is my preferred style of action, but this movie is still fun to watch, thanks in part to Reeves and the remarkable world building.
03/25/23 - DirectorChad StahelskiStarsKeanu ReevesLaurence FishburneGeorge GeorgiouJohn Wick uncovers a path to defeating The High Table. But before he can earn his freedom, Wick must face off against a new enemy with powerful alliances across the globe and forces that turn old friends into foes.This was a fun film, if a bit overbearing due to the sheer amount of action, especially since most of the action was gunplay, with very littler hand to hand combat to break things up. That said, I did think the pacing was very good, and for a nearly three hour run time, the movie didn't feel long at all. If you're a fan of John Wick, you'll enjoy this - I certainly did.
03/26/23 - DirectorChad StahelskiStarsKeanu ReevesRiccardo ScamarcioIan McShaneAfter returning to the criminal underworld to repay a debt, John Wick discovers that a large bounty has been put on his life.This movie is just so good - it's basically non-stop action, and the action is so much better than it is in the first film, super creative and full of hand-to-hand combat, which I love. I like this movie a lot more than the first, and it's probably my favorite of the series - especially because of the increased world building.
03/26/23 - DirectorChad StahelskiStarsKeanu ReevesHalle BerryIan McShaneJohn Wick is on the run after killing a member of the international assassins' guild, and with a $14 million price tag on his head, he is the target of hit men and women everywhere.I enjoy this movie more and more every time I watch it, to the point where I'd rate it an 8 or 9 now. I just love the action in this film so much, and it's not overbearing at all - the film does manage to break it up; the action also just consistently ups and ups the stakes, and there are so many creative sequences - so much hand-to-hand combat, knife fights, car chases, gunfights, it's all glorious, and this is without a doubt my second favorite of the series after John Wick 2 - and who knows, maybe upon another viewing, I might like this more than the 2nd film.
03/27/23 - DirectorAdil El ArbiBilall FallahStarsWill SmithMartin LawrenceVanessa HudgensMiami detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett must face off against a mother-and-son pair of drug lords who wreak vengeful havoc on their city.Horrible, not funny, not entertaining at all. Some of the action is good, but literally everything else about this movie sucks. It's just shocking to me that an action comedy wasn't thrilling or funny - I was really expecting to be entertained, and instead I was just bored.
03/27/23 - DirectorJohn Francis DaleyJonathan GoldsteinStarsChris PineMichelle RodriguezRegé-Jean PageA charming thief and a band of unlikely adventurers embark on an epic quest to retrieve a lost relic, but things go dangerously awry when they run afoul of the wrong people.This is a really fun film that I found myself enjoying even more upon 2nd viewing. Chris Pine is so entertaining here, and I honestly couldn't get enough of him. The whole cast also gets their time to shine, especially Sophia Lillis, who I basically watched this movie for (she's gorgeous, and she's really fun to watch in this movie - her character has a few great scenes, including an amazing chase sequence). But this movie is just really fun - amazing cinematography and clever directing, really good action for a PG-13, and a really fun story with excellent world building. My only complain is that this movie does drag a bit in the middle and can feel a touch too long, but other than that I really like this movie, and I'm honestly excited to watch it again for a 3rd time.
03/29/23
Second Watch: 04/03/23 - DirectorZack SnyderStarsHenry CavillAmy AdamsMichael ShannonAn alien child is evacuated from his dying world and sent to Earth to live among humans. His peace is threatened when other survivors of his home planet invade Earth.Watched this movie with my mom on 4k bluray - I like this movie more and more every time I watch it, to the point where I basically love it now. I still wish there was a touch more emotion, but I still cry about 3 times everytime I watch this movie (tornado seen; "You are my son;" "You think you can threaten my mother?"), so I guess I can't really complain about the lack of emotion. Henry is amazing here, as is Amy Adams, and Zack Snyder just directs this to perfection, creating a movie that is consistently riveting to look at. Plus, he is restrained here, devoting an hour and a half to plot development until the inevitable hour long climax, which is explosive and intense and exciting. I also love Zod here, as you really can see where he's coming from - a tragic villain if you will. All in all, I really have enjoy this movie, and really wish we got a true Man of Steel 2.
04/07/23 - DirectorMatt ReevesStarsRobert PattinsonZoë KravitzJeffrey WrightWhen a sadistic serial killer begins murdering key political figures in Gotham, Batman is forced to investigate the city's hidden corruption and question his family's involvement.I can't help but rewatch this movie when I want a Batman fix - but I still don't love this movie as much as I want to. Pattinson is great, and I love his Bruce Wayne and Batman (love the emo style). The movie also looks and sounds absolutely amazing - this is certainly the best directed Batman film, with a riveting, booming soundtrack. However, director Matt Reeves basically turned Batman into a drama instead of an action film, and that is certainly an acquired taste. This movie does not have much action - as much as I love the opening sequences, the "action" scene isn't filmed to be exciting - it's filmed in an art house style, which is something I appreciate more with each viewing. Besides the climax, and the midway car chase (which is still filmed in an art housey style instead of a traditional action movie style), there isn't much action. The film is methodically paced, and very slow, almost custom made to not be exciting. However, as a Batman drama, it's still very watchable, and I do enjoy watching it - I never found myself bored on this 4th rewatch; but, I'm still disappointed that I don't love it as much as I want to.
04/08/23 - DirectorTodd PhillipsStarsJoaquin PhoenixRobert De NiroZazie BeetzDuring the 1980s, a failed stand-up comedian is driven insane and turns to a life of crime and chaos in Gotham City while becoming an infamous psychopathic crime figure.After watching "The Batman," I decided I wanted to stay in Gotham, so I decided to watch Joker. And my opinion on this movie really hasn't changed - it looks and sounds amazing, and Joaquin is literally incredible, and carries the entire film on his shoulders. This is an enjoyable film, and I think I finally picked up on when and where Arthur finally becomes Joker, but it's still not as great as I wanted this movie to be. I just really wish there was more Joker activities in this movie, and by that I mean I wanted the criminal mastermind we all know and love to work his magic. However, this isn't that kind of movie. All that said, while I don't love this movie, I do like it, I find it endlessly rewatchable, and this is a movie where I find I can watch it anytime and not get bored or tired of it. However, my 6 out of 10 rating still stands, even though I genuinely do enjoy this movie.
04/08/23 - DirectorJosh TrankStarsDane DeHaanAlex RussellMichael B. JordanThree high school friends gain superpowers after making an incredible discovery underground. Soon they find their lives spinning out of control and their bond tested as they embrace their darker sides.I really loved this movie when it originally came out, and upon subsequent viewings I also found myself loving it. However, it's been a few years since I saw it, and upon this rewatch, the cracks did start to show a bit. I wasn't as impressed with Dane DeHaan's acting as I was in the past, and I did find some of the action sequences pretty poorly filmed (probably due to the small budget). However, as a super hero power fantasy and villain origin story, this movie does have a lot to like in that regard, and I was still entertained by it, just not as much as I remember being in the past.
04/09/23 - DirectorBen AffleckStarsMatt DamonJason BatemanBen AffleckFollows the history of sports marketing executive Sonny Vaccaro, and how he led Nike in its pursuit of the greatest athlete in the history of basketball, Michael Jordan.This was a pretty good movie. The script was good, with constant, rapid fire, sharp dialogue, and Matt Damon was actually really great here, as was Affleck. I'm not a huge sports fan so there was some disconnect, but I did find myself entertained.
04/10/23 - DirectorAaron HorvathMichael JelenicPierre LeducStarsChris PrattAnya Taylor-JoyCharlie DayA plumber named Mario travels through an underground labyrinth with his brother Luigi, trying to save a captured princess.I did not like this movie, and neither did my friends. The animation was impressive, and it has some silly moments here and there, but overall I found myself bored and waiting for it to end.
04/11/23 - CreatorNeil DruckmannCraig MazinStarsPedro PascalBella RamseyAnna TorvAfter a global pandemic destroys civilization, a hardened survivor takes charge of a 14-year-old girl who may be humanity's last hope.I'm conflicted about this show. I did enjoy a few episodes of it, but other episodes felt like filler to me, with nothing really integral occurring. Also, I really feel like this show was just too rushed; I did buy Joel and Ellie's relationship toward the end, but I feel like there still wasn't enough development getting there; their acting was so good that you buy it, but I really wanted a lot more of their relationship - for a show about Joel and Ellie, there really isn't that much Joel or Ellie in the show. The final two episodes were legit amazing, but again, they were too rushed. I'm not sure, maybe I'll give this another go and binge it to see where my thoughts lie, but for right now I do feel as if this show was way overhyped, and I just wish I liked it more.
04/13/23 - DirectorJulius AveryStarsRussell CroweDaniel ZovattoAlexandra EssoeFollow Gabriele Amorth, the Vatican's leading exorcist, as he investigates the possession of a child and uncovers a conspiracy the Vatican has tried to keep secret.I had way too much fun with this movie. Russel Crowe was so energetic here, and played just a hilarious character who was quick witted, always joking around, and loved whiskey, which I found hilarious. The movie also plays out more like a thriller than a straight up horror film, and I found the exorcism sequences, while cliched, pretty fun to watch. The movie did have some unique visuals to it as well, which I appreciated. But honestly, I just had so much fun with this and was entertained from beginning to end.
04/15/23 - DirectorZack SnyderStarsBen AffleckHenry CavillAmy AdamsBatman is manipulated by Lex Luthor to fear Superman. Superman´s existence is meanwhile dividing the world and he is framed for murder during an international crisis. The heroes clash and force the neutral Wonder Woman to reemerge.This is by far one of my favorite super hero films. It's dark and intense, filled with intense action and emotional resonance - Zack Snyder's direction is also impeccable. This movie looks amazing as well, very thematic and cinematic. Overall, I really enjoy this movie, from the plot to the action and everything in between; sure, it should've most likely been split into 2 films, but for what we got, this movie is amazing.
04/16/23 - DirectorGuy RitchieStarsJake GyllenhaalDar SalimSean SagarDuring the war in Afghanistan, a local interpreter risks his own life to carry an injured sergeant across miles of grueling terrain.I honestly loved this movie, and I didn't necessarily think I would upon walking in. I was worried it'd be a boring film, but I found myself absolutely riveting from beginning to end due to the performances and intense action sequences, and Guy Ritchie's signature style. This is one I highly recommend, and I can't wait to watch this with my parents.
04/20/23 - DirectorLee CroninStarsMirabai PeaseRichard CrouchleyAnna-Maree ThomasA twisted tale of two estranged sisters whose reunion is cut short by the rise of flesh-possessing demons, thrusting them into a primal battle for survival as they face the most nightmarish version of family imaginable.This movie disappointed me - I thought it would be full of blood and gore and action, but after a fantastic start that had my jaw on the ground, I found myself incredibly bored. The movie never feels like it gets going, and the bloody violence feels oddly tame. I'm sure some people will enjoy this, but I found it too neutered, with the pace too slow. Not to say I won't watch this again, because I will, but I'm starting to think the Evil Dead franchise just isn't for me.
04/21/23 - DirectorZack SnyderStarsHenry CavillBen AffleckGal GadotDetermined to ensure that Superman's ultimate sacrifice wasn't in vain, Bruce Wayne recruits a team of metahumans to protect the world from an approaching threat of catastrophic proportions.What else is there to say about this movie? I watched it with my mom again, we're both big Zack Snyder fans, and we love this movie. It is the superior Justice League film. The entire thing is riveting from beginning to end, with emotional resonance that echoes from the acting and cinematography to the direction and music choices; this movie just works on every level for me. The action is stunning, the movie looks incredible, and I just really wish that, somehow, Zack Snyder can continue his DC vision, because it is excellent.
04/23/23 - DirectorKathryn BigelowStarsJeremy RennerAnthony MackieBrian GeraghtyDuring the Iraq War, a Sergeant recently assigned to an army bomb squad is put at odds with his squad mates due to his maverick way of handling his work.This movie is thrilling from beginning to end - the dialogue is a bit iffy at times, but the actual movie itself is one of the best war films I've ever seen. It's intense and relentless, and never lets up, filled with taut bomb defusals and shootouts. The first time I watched this movie it took my breath away and made my heart palpitate from adrenaline, and it did the same thing again. Love this!
04/27/23 - DirectorAri AsterStarsJoaquin PhoenixPatti LuPoneAmy RyanFollowing the sudden death of his mother, a mild-mannered but anxiety-ridden man confronts his darkest fears as he embarks on an epic, Kafkaesque odyssey back home.I loved this movie so much - Ari Aster has done it again. This is a fantastic film, one that never let me out of its hooks for the entirety of the 3 hour run time. It does get weirdly surreal at points, but that never really ruined the experience for them. I would've preferred a slightly happier ending, but all in all I found this to be a legitimately thrilling experience with some of Ari's best filmmaking at play.
04/29/23 - DirectorAri AsterStarsToni ColletteMilly ShapiroGabriel ByrneA grieving family is haunted by tragic and disturbing occurrences.I love this movie. Upon rewatch I do think that perhaps it's a little more bare bones than I initially thought, but for what it is, this movie is highly effective, working very well as more of a drama than a horror film - and I stand by my thought that dramas make the best horror films. The themes of familial trauma are so resonant and relatable, with Toni Collet giving a powerhouse performance; the first 37 minutes of this movie - especially when you know what's coming - are anxiety inducing to the max, causing me to literally have pains in my chest. And the climax is effective, especially when you've already seen the movie, know what's happening, and can pinpoint the little things leading up to it. I just really enjoy this movie. I don't think it's scary, but it's just a really well made film.
04/30/23 - DirectorJalmari HelanderStarsJorma TommilaAksel HennieJack DoolanWhen an ex-soldier who discovers gold in the Lapland wilderness tries to take the loot into the city, German soldiers led by a brutal SS officer battle him.Ehhhhh. I thought this movie was a bit too slow for my liking. The pacing dragged and dragged, with the movie never really picking up steam; even the action sequences felt slow, and were very few and far between. Chapter 6 does give you what you were looking for, but the lead up just takes so long. I didn't hate this movie, but it's definitely not as good as I wanted it to be.
05/03/23 - DirectorDavid KoeppStarsRicky GervaisGreg KinnearTéa LeoniBertram Pincus is a man whose people skills leave much to be desired. When Pincus dies unexpectedly, but is miraculously revived after seven minutes, he wakes up to discover that he now has the annoying ability to see ghosts.This is an emotional, charming romance film - what more is there to say? Ricky Gervais is entertaining and charming as heck here, and the romance is believable and fun to watch, and the movie is just entertaining. Very light, very fun, would recommend.
05/03/23 - DirectorJames GunnStarsChris PrattChukwudi IwujiBradley CooperStill reeling from the loss of Gamora, Peter Quill rallies his team to defend the universe and one of their own - a mission that could mean the end of the Guardians if not successful.This was a unique film, to say the least, and I saw it twice to solidify my thoughts; and honestly, I just didn't like this movie too much. The soundtrack is good, the action is fine, the cast and chemistry is good, but the movie just feels uncanny and bizarre and macabre and depressing, and I didn't enjoy watching it. I am looking forward to seeing this again at home strictly for the soundtrack, but as a whole I didn't like this film.
05/04/23
Second watch with my mum - 05/06/23 - DirectorRicky GervaisStarsRicky GervaisEric BanaVera FarmigaA radio journalist and his technician get in over their heads when they hatch a scheme to fake their own kidnapping during a rebel uprising in South America and hide out in New York instead.This is fine. It's an entertaining enough, low budget, light comedy, that's instantly forgettable as soon as it's over.
05/07/23 - Watched on Netflix with my mom - DirectorRobert EggersStarsAlexander SkarsgårdNicole KidmanClaes BangA young Viking prince is on a quest to avenge his father's murder.I didn't really like this film when I first saw it, as I expected more of an action film and not the thorough exploration of Norse culture that it was. But, now that I knew what to expect, I figured I'd give this film a second chance. Upon rewatch, I do like this movie a bit more, but I still don't think it's that great. The movie looks really good, and you can tell the quality in front of and behind the camera. The exploration of Norse culture is extremely interesting as well, and I did like the mythological aspect. However, the movie doesn't need to be as long as it is, and the pace doesn't need to be as slow. The movie really drags during it's middle act, and by no means should the movie have focused so long on that part. However, the revenge story is fine, and the action looks okay - I just wished it was as bloody and aa brutal as the culture it's portraying. So, I did like this movie slightly better on second watch, but I still think it doesn't live up to what it could have been.
05/10/23 - DirectorRobert RodriguezStarsBen AffleckAlice BragaJD PardoA detective investigates a mystery involving his missing daughter and a secret government program.This movie was unique, to say the least lol. It looks very cheap, and barely has any action (and when I say action, I mean shootouts and fistfights, because the movie does have a lot of car crashes). The movie looks and feels extremely indie, and Ben Affleck looks really bored (which may be intentional). That said, about half way thru the movie changes trajectory, and I was on board from that point on, as I thought the movie did start to get interesting at that point. The twists and turns are interesting, and while I wouldn't call this a good movie, I do think it's fun in a direct-to-streaming B-movie sort of way.
05/12/23 - DirectorFranklin RitchStarsTatum MatthewsLance HenriksenSinda NicholsA team of special agents discovers a revolutionary new computer program to bait and trap online predators. After teaming up with the program's troubled developer, they soon find that the AI is rapidly advancing beyond its original purpose.I did not like this movie. It has such an intriguing premise, but the movie plays out in the most bare-bones, generic way possible with a simple "Is this AI becoming sentient or not" story that we've seen done, and done better, a million times before. I have to say that the movie is almost worth watching for Tatum Matthews' performance - and literally no one else, because everyone else was absolutely awful, filled with horrible, un-lifelike dialogue that constantly took me out. I so badly wanted to like this movie because of how interesting the premise is, but the film is, basically, just three sequences of three long, drawn out, uninteresting, and poorly written conversations. I wish I liked this, but I really did not.
05/13/23 - DirectorDavid GelbStarsOlivia WildeMark DuplassEvan PetersA group of medical researchers discover a way to bring dead patients back to life.Really boring film - it takes about 38 minutes for the "horror" to begin, and once it does, it takes another 10 to 20 minutes for it to really kick in, and by that point the movie is almost over and you're wondering what the point of all of it was in the first place. I love Mark Duplass, but even he couldn't save this movie from it's poor writing and uninteresting, generic, and scareless story. I didn't enjoy this at all - it doesn't even work as dumb fun.
05/14/23 - DirectorTony ScottStarsWill SmithGene HackmanJon VoightA lawyer becomes targeted by a corrupt politician and his N.S.A. goons when he accidentally receives key evidence to a politically motivated crime.This was okay, but I honestly wasn't a fan of it. I did like the mass surveillance element, but the movie as a whole was just unexciting for me, and I really can't remember much of it.
05/15/23 - DirectorBrandon CronenbergStarsAndrea RiseboroughChristopher AbbottJennifer Jason LeighAn agent works for a secretive organization that uses brain-implant technology to inhabit other people's bodies - ultimately driving them to commit assassinations for high-paying clients.This movie had a lot of interesting ideas, but I didn't find the execution to be that good. Like, this could've either been a really exciting thriller or an intense action film, but the movie seems almost tailor made to be unexciting, except for the random bursts of gory violence, which I did enjoy. However, the movie did just seem lacking, and Brandon does seem like an unconfident director as a whole. But there were some good, enjoyable elements here, including a quote that I just love so much, and I really did like the gory violence. So, I probably will watch this again one day, but it really does feel like a better, more competent movie is hiding in here.
05/15/23 - DirectorPaul SchraderStarsJoel EdgertonSigourney WeaverQuintessa SwindellA meticulous horticulturist is devoted to tending the grounds of a beautiful estate and pandering to his employer, the wealthy dowager.This movie was provocative, and had some interesting ideas, but man was it slow. This movie had so many good aspects, but the execution was terrible, especially with the awful scriptwriting and dialogue, which contributed to terrible performances. However, I can't say I necessarily disliked this movie, because I did somewhat enjoy my time with it, but man the execution just felt lacking.
05/20/23 - DirectorLouis LeterrierStarsVin DieselMichelle RodriguezJason StathamDom Toretto and his family are targeted by the vengeful son of drug kingpin Hernan Reyes.This was actually a lot of fun. I'm typically not a huge fan of these movies, but man was this a total blast. It is way too long, the direction, editing, and sound design is poor, but the action is constant and insane, and I loved it. I'm honestly tempted to go see this again because of how bonkers it is. One thing's for sure, I'm going to buy this, and I cannot wait to see it again based on entertainment value alone.
05/24/23 - DirectorNiki CaroStarsJennifer LopezLucy PaezOmari HardwickWhile fleeing from dangerous assailants, an assassin comes out of hiding to protect the daughter she left earlier in life.This movie kind of sucked. J-Lo was fine, the actress who played her daughter was fine, but the plot was so pedestrian and mediocre, and the action was nothing special, with it mostly being shootings and very little hand-to-hand combat, which I prefer. I did like seeing how proficient J-Lo's character was, but I honestly found the plot a bit hard to follow at points, and this movie was honestly just unmemorable, bare bones, and generic. I might watch it again one day, but I can't imagine being excited about it. This was really just nothing special - it's a fine rainy day film if you have nothing else to do.
05/26/23 - DirectorLaura TerrusoStarsRobert De NiroSebastian ManiscalcoLeslie BibbWhen Sebastian tells his old-school Italian immigrant father Salvo that he is going to propose to his all-American girlfriend, Salvo insists on crashing a weekend with her tony parents.Saw this with my parents and my grandma. This movie was fine - it wasn't offensively bad or anything, it just kind of was. I never really laughed out loud, but I chuckled a little bit, and for a one time breezy viewing experience, I don't necessarily not-recommend this. Definitely not a theatre experience though.
05/31/23 - DirectorJoaquim Dos SantosKemp PowersJustin K. ThompsonStarsShameik MooreHailee SteinfeldBrian Tyree HenryMiles Morales catapults across the multiverse, where he encounters a team of Spider-People charged with protecting its very existence. When the heroes clash on how to handle a new threat, Miles must redefine what it means to be a hero.This was a fantastic movie, with an excellent soundtrack, emotionally resonant story, and last but not least, remarkable, visually stunning animation. I literally couldn't get enough of this movie and from beginning to end I was 100% engaged. Loved this, and can't wait to watch and listen to this again.
06/01/23 - DirectorRob SavageStarsSophie ThatcherChris MessinaVivien Lyra BlairStill reeling from the tragic death of their mother, a teenage girl and her younger sister find themselves plagued by a sadistic presence in their house and struggle to get their grieving father to pay attention before it's too late.Pretty lame film. I really liked Sophie Thatcher in it, but other than that I didn't find much to like here. It had a couple of creepy sequences, but the movie felt very random to me, with little build up or reason for me to care about what was happening, why it was happening, and who it was happening to. That said, I do really like Sophie Thatcher, so I'll probably watch this again just for her.
06/02/23 - DirectorStephen FrearsStarsSally HawkinsShonagh PriceHelen KatambaAn amateur historian defies the stodgy academic establishment in her efforts to find King Richard III's remains, which were lost for over 500 years.Watched this with my mom - rented on Amazon. This was an okay film. I liked the main character - she's always great and attractive, and I liked the paranormal aspect. The movie itself was interesting enough for a one time watch, as I do enjoy history, but I'd probably never watch this film again.
06/02/23 - DirectorBill HoldermanStarsDiane KeatonJane FondaCandice BergenFollows the new journey of four best friends as they take their book club to Italy for the fun girls trip they never had.I watched this with my mum - we rented it on Amazon. And this movie was so hilarious, I really had a great time with it, so much so that my mom and I found ourselves crying laughing at times. The 3rd act does slow down to complete the story, but other than that this movie is just so hilarious and I really am excited to watch it again.
06/03/23
Second Watch 07/23/23 - DirectorSteven Caple Jr.StarsAnthony RamosDominique FishbackLuna Lauren VelezDuring the '90s, a new faction of Transformers - the Maximals - join the Autobots as allies in the battle for Earth.I honestly didn't really enjoy this. I found this movie to be pretty boring, with dull characters, a bland visual style, and pretty incomprehensible action. I really thought I'd like this, as I'm a fan of the other movies, but I just found this pretty boring and too silly, even for a Transformers film. Not a fan, but I'll probably rewatch when rewatching the series.
06/09/23 - DirectorAndy MuschiettiStarsEzra MillerMichael KeatonSasha CalleBarry Allen uses his super speed to change the past, but his attempt to save his family creates a world without super heroes, forcing him to race for his life in order to save the future.The thing about "The Flash" is, I do enjoy this movie - however, I don't think it's as good as it could be. I saw it twice, and both times it is an enjoyable, breezy film with silly comedy, emotional resonance, and a few good action sequences - Ezra Miller is also superb. However, the movie suffers form tonal inconsistencies, jumping from taut drama to slapstick comedy to violent action, back and forth and back and forth. You can tell they didn't know what type of movie they were trying to make, and in an effort to make a crowd pleaser, they made this into a mish-mash of differing genres. That said, I do think this is a fun film, and I will certainly be buying it once it releases on Blu-Ray.
06/15/23
Second watch: 07/21/23 - DirectorGene StupnitskyStarsJennifer LawrenceAndrew Barth FeldmanLaura BenantiOn the brink of losing her home, Maddie finds an intriguing job listing: helicopter parents looking for someone to bring their introverted 19-year-old son out of his shell before college. She has one summer to make him a man or die trying.I actually enjoyed this movie. I didn't think it was hilarious, but it had a lot of cute scenes that really emotionally resonated with me at points. Jennifer Lawrence was really good, as was her "love" interest, and the whole thing reminded me of an American Pie film.
06/22/23 - DirectorWes AndersonStarsJason SchwartzmanScarlett JohanssonTom HanksFollowing a writer on his world famous fictional play about a grieving father who travels with his tech-obsessed family to small rural Asteroid City to compete in a junior stargazing event, only to have his world view disrupted forever.I did not like this movie. It felt like a non-movie; it was pretty much about nothing; the themes didn't resonate with me, and by the end I was left confused, wondering what the point of it all was. There were a few cute moments, and Sophia Lillis was good here, but other than that, I didn't find much to like and I couldn't wait for it to end.
06/23/23 - DirectorCeline SongStarsGreta LeeTeo YooJohn MagaroNora and Hae Sung, two deeply connected childhood friends, are wrested apart after Nora's family emigrates from South Korea. Twenty years later, they are reunited for one fateful week as they confront notions of love and destiny.I really didn't like this film. I thought the lead main actor dude was good, as well as the female main actresses husband, but other than that, this was the least romantic and least emotionally resonant romance I've seen in a while. I just couldn't connect with the characters or the situation they were in, and I thought the female lead was kind of unlikeable, making decisions that just put people threw the emotional ringer unnecessarily.
06/25/23 - DirectorJ.J. AbramsStarsDaisy RidleyJohn BoyegaOscar IsaacAs a new threat to the galaxy rises, Rey, a desert scavenger, and Finn, an ex-stormtrooper, must join Han Solo and Chewbacca to search for the one hope of restoring peace.Ehhhh. Everytime I see this movie I hope it'll click with me and I'll like it, but I Just never really do. The best part of this movie is Kylo Ren. other than that, I don't think the action in this movie is good, I don't even think it looks good visually. I also think the pacing is way too rushed, bringing the new characters together with the legacy characters in ways that doesn't feel natural or organic. All that said, I don't hate this movie, but I don't really enjoy it all that much.
06/26/23 - DirectorRian JohnsonStarsDaisy RidleyJohn BoyegaMark HamillRey develops her abilities with the help of Luke Skywalker, as the Resistance prepares for battle against the First Order.This is definitely my favorite of the new trilogy, as hated as this movie is. The best part of this movie is the relationship and character development of Kylo and Rey, and luckily, this aspect takes up a large majority of the film. Adam Driver and Daisy Ridley are incredible here, and I could watch them talk to each other all day. This film is also visually stunning, with sequences that I am in awe of every time I watch them (the ship destruction part, the throne room scene) - however, this movie doesn't really feel like the 2nd film of a trilogy. It feels like another beginning, and by the end, everyone is kind of left in the same place. I also still don't enjoy the casino sequence, even tho it really isn't as bad as I thought on first viewing.
Started 06/27/23 - Finished 06/28/23 - DirectorJ.J. AbramsStarsDaisy RidleyJohn BoyegaOscar IsaacThe surviving Resistance faces the First Order once again in the conclusion of the Skywalker saga.I think this movie is entertaining, but it's not good. The action is plentiful and consistent, and the visuals are good, but everything feels incredibly rushed; this movie also seems to just exist to retcon everything The Last Jedi did. This is a fun sci-fi film, but as a Star Wars movie, it falls flat.
06/28/23 - DirectorSteven SpielbergStarsHarrison FordKaren AllenPaul FreemanIn 1936, archaeologist and adventurer Indiana Jones is hired by the U.S. government to find the Ark of the Covenant before the Nazis can obtain its awesome powers.This is a classic film that's pure entertainment from beginning to end - I have a lot of nostalgia for this movie, as I grew up watching it, and it still delivers. The direction isn't anything stunning, but as an adventure movie, this is just a really fun time.
07/01/23 - DirectorSteven SpielbergStarsHarrison FordKate CapshawKe Huy QuanIn 1935, Indiana Jones is tasked by Indian villagers with reclaiming a rock stolen from them by a secret cult beneath the catacombs of an ancient palace.This i my favorite Indiana Jones movie - it's so good! It's dark and weird, but again, it's a pure adventure movie that delivers thrills and chills in equal measure. I love it so much!
07/02/23