jeromesgabilo Reviews

Lisa Frankenstein (2024)

A POTENTIAL CULT CLASSIC?

[3/10 · 23 May 2024]

I know a lot of people liked this one a lot, and it became a bit popular during its release. But personally I didn't get the hype around this horror-comedy teen flick. I think it was incredibly mid and mediocre; the performances sometimes hilarious sometimes over-the-top. I know I must be biased because one of our own, Filipina actor Lisa Soberano, was featured on this one, but even her debut in Hollywood was not that exciting for me. I think the movie should have been cut a lot shorter. There were lots of corny and unnecessary scenes that were cringy. The production design and hair and makeup were outstanding, though.

Murder Mubarak (2024)

OVERWHELMING

[5/10 · 23 May 2024]

I must say Indian films were famous for their big films with lots of supporting characters. And this one was no exception. The first hour was just okay for me to watch because the characters were introduced and established properly, and each one was interesting and relevant to the story. But as the film progresses I was a bit overwhelmed and worried that I will fail to keep up with the scenes, and unfortunately I did. During the middle of the film, I was feeling a bit bored and just impatient to finish the film. Even the twist at the end was anticlimactic for me. Even though I did not see it coming it was a bit expected and betrayed the vibe of the film for me.

Ricky Stanicky (2024)

RIDICULOUS BUT STILL FUN

[6/10 · 23 May 2024]

Never thought that I would enjoy seeing John Cena in this raunchy comedy. I felt like he was so at par with other celebrities that oddly fit into this types of characters. His casting was a great decision to the movie because he was hilarious on this one without trying too hard. All the other characters I found a bit lame. I mean, Zac Efron was a bit bizarre to watch now because of his bulky physique that I wished he would fit into more dramatic and action roles than this one. All the other performances were lame and forgettable, and it felt like the writer was just filling-in scenes just to make the film longer.

Migration (I) (2023)

MEDIOCRE BUT ENTERTAINING ENOUGH

[6/10 · 23 May 2024]

This animation film was such a mid, but I really enjoyed watching it because it felt like a classic film to watch with kids and the whole family. The animation effects and vibes were one of the flawless I've watched this year. The voice dubbings were decent as well, although I really hoped that these types of animated flicks were a bit longer and deeper in plot and storyline. It could have been more enjoyable to watch if the settings were a bit more different from what was expected. Even though this film still delivered, I think it lacks a certain charm that would attract more audience and makes it more watchable on repeat.

Damsel (2024)

ENTERTAINING AND MAGICAL

[6/10 · 23 May 2024]

I must say I was a surprised to find myself really enjoying this thrilling ride with Millie Bobby Brown. It felt like an old school fantasy adventure flick with a femme fatale protagonist, only this one was fiercer. She really embodies a true heroine in every character she plays, and this one was probably one of her bests. The plot and story was a bit disturbing and shocking to watch, which I really liked because it added a certain depth and maturity to the whole film. The antagonist was also decent in her portrayal. The entire film was a whole vibe, and the production design was one of the most enjoyable to watch.

Athlete A (2020)

SHOCKING AND REVEALING

[5/10 · 23 May 2024]

I really applaud these documentaries wherein a seemingly safe space for people hides a sinister secret. This revealing documentary was a testimony to the corrupt practice of sexual and mental abuse to teenage girls who just wanted to be able to showcase their physical prowess. I can tell that this film and the topic at hand was well-researched and involved a lot of conflicting method just to uncover the truth that has been happening for a really long time. And I commend the director and the producers for generously giving us every details. However, it was still not exciting to watch and at times disturbing.

Spaceman (I) (2024)

WEIRD BUT INTERESTING

[3/10 · 23 May 2024]

I must admit I am so biased with Adam Sandler exclusively seen on comedy movies. This sci-fi flick did not work for me. I found myself impatient to finish the film and just move on. The odd combination of that spider and the seemingly slow-paced sequence (due to lack of gravity?) and Sandler was too bizarre for me. The philosophical dilemma that these kinds of movies portray seemed to have worked really well with the greats such as Interstellar and Gravity. But this one felt a bit trying-hard and copy cat. But it was nice seeing both Adam Sandler and Carey Mulligan in such emotionally-driven roles.

Hellhound (I) (2024)

BLAND AND A BIT SLOW-PACED

[4/10 · 23 May 2024]

An interesting take on the issue of kidnappings and killings in the Southeast Asian region, this action thriller failed to attract audiences around the world. For me it was not only slow-paced but anticlimactic. The performances, not only by the supporting characters but by the protagonist as well, were bland and so stereotypical of action movies wherein the dramatic performances were slowly diminishing in quality and depth. The storyline, however, was solid and interesting. The amount of violence and gory scenes were just sufficient for me. It would have been a more thrilling ride if it was longer.

American Star (2024)

FINALLY ANOTHER GOOD SLOW-BURN

[6/10 · 18 March 2024]

Ian McShane was one of those actors that has either "good" or amazing performances. His acting in this beautifully-shot thriller set in the majestic Canary Islands was nothing short of outstanding. His character-acting was one of the finest I've seen in the industry. While his character was the center of this film, the smart acting of the supporting characters complimented so well with the rest because it provided such stability to the quality of the performances which was essential in keeping this slow-burn thriller from being too boring or too overwhelming to watch. The cinematography was one of the bests I've seen this year.

Argylle (2024)

RIDICULOUS AND TOO LONG

[2/10 · 18 March 2024]

I really could confidently say that this was one of the worst movies of the year. From stale acting performances to overwhelmingly ridiculous scenes, this was anything but entertaining. Bryce Dallas Howard always put out such mediocre and absurd performances, and this one was no different. Henry Cavill could have more contributions to acting scenes that could have made it more thrilling and entertaining to watch. Instead what we got was a long film that I was too eager to conclude, and whose characters were too many and all boring. The director should really take a few notes from more experienced action-comedy filmmakers.

Marmalade (2024)

FUN AND CLEVER

[6/10 · 18 March 2024]

It was definitely refreshing and amazing to have watched this sort of a movie nowadays when we get scarcity of thrilling and unexpected comedies. The plot was outstanding because it was flexible open to interpretation and easy to manipulate like what the director and writer just did. The protagonist's performance was so smart and clever die to his ability to portray such complex character that initially seemed innocent and unsuspecting to someone more sinister and clever. The scenes were also intelligently edited because there were no plotholes and the twist was satisfying in the end. The whole anagram thing was a bit corny though.

My Husband's Seven Wives (2024 TV Movie)

FAILED PORTRAYAL OF MARITAL ISSUES

[3/10 · 23 February 2024]

Interesting concept right from the title of the film, but what disappointed me the most, aside from its mediocre production and uneventful scenes, was its wasted potential. The story could have gone much further by giving the story more depth and perspective. I was thinking that I will indeed witness seven female characters each entering the frame one at a time. Instead the audience was shown just a handful of women just seemingly scheming to exact revenge and turn the story into a battle for money. I was thinking the protagonists were more convincing and invested in their performances, and the plot more concrete.

A Quiet Place (2018)

ONE OF THE BESTS OF ITS KIND

[7/10 · 23 February 2024]

I honestly this was one of the best horror films for the last 10 years. I mean it revolutionized the use of sound in horror genre in general, and it showcased how creative and groundbreaking the director can be in a horror movie. The intelligent use of sound in the film and its technical application was astounding. It was not surprising to see that so many people still rewatch this film over and over again. John Krasinski was definitely one of the directors to watch out for. Even greater was its cultural influence and the way it affected so many people in the audience around the world. A definite masterpiece.

Sixty Minutes (2024)

VERY INTERESTING CONCEPT

[6/10 · 23 February 2024]

What I loved the most about this film was its homage to early race-against-time types of movies such as Taken and Kidnap, and its plot was centered around a likable protagonist that was relatable to watch. It held me by the neck even from the very start as it progresses into the action-filled chase scenes. These scenes were even tinged with emotional edges into it which made the film more than just an ordinary action flick. The way that the director centered the story around the protagonist and his dilemma (which ironically is a bit problematic because of his questionable abandonment of the fight) was smart because it emphasizes the greater conflict of the story.

Badland Hunters (2024)

DECENT AND EMOTIONAL

[6/10 · 23 February 2024]

I loved how invested the director is to the plot and backstory. At the very beginning of the film the story was made clear and the plot plausible. The characters were also interesting and entertaining. There were definitely no dull moments with this one. Even the action and chase scenes were so good and typical of exciting Korean action films. From beginning to end every scene was relevant and essential to the story in general. I just wished that the runtime was much longer. They could have provided more perspectives to the story. There was also an emotional edge to it that will surely tug at everyone's heartstrings.

Anyone But You (2023)

THE FIRST ROM-COM OF THE YEAR WAS SO CLICHÉ

[5/10 · 12 February 2024]

This movie was one of the most clichés I've seen not only in thr rom-com genre but to the movies in general. The story and plot was simple and linear: two single people met in an unexpected manner and also unexpectedly found each other's heart so fast. I think it went downhill from that moment. The story became predictable from that moment on. I also could not appreciate the attempt to put diversity and inclusiveness to the characters because it just could not save the film. Even the amazing setting of Australia could not lift it up. The two protagonists' performances were obviously showing that they were enjoying it and at the same time do not.

The Book of Clarence (2023)

BEST STANFIELD PERFORMANCE BUT THE FILM WAS DISAPPOINTING

[5/10 · 12 February 2024]

I felt like there was a lot going on while watching the film. The film started out strong with its Book 1. I loved how established the story is from the beginning. It was even funny to watch the characters so casually in such an ancient and medieval setting. Even the biblical references were coolly represented. But then I felt the story went spiraling down towards the end. It was not a linear kind of plot. It was multi-faceted, and I wish it was not. I would have toned down the film to a more simplistic plot and less runtime. But I must say this was LaKeith Stanfield's best performance to date.

Sex Tape (2014)

WEAK AND AWFUL

[5/10 · 11 February 2024]

The problem I had with this comedy film (which felt like a sequel to one of my favorites Bad Teacher) was the chemistry between Cameron Diaz and Jason Segel were amazing but sometimes cringy to watch. Cameron Diaz was hilarious as always, which I always liked about her. But everything was just doomed from the start: the script, the story, production and the editing. Not only were they awful but they are also technically and commercially weak. At times it was funny as hell but most of the time, the scenes were just awful and over-the-top. I wish that a longer runtime would help it get so much better.

Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

GREAT CAST

[5/10 · 11 February 2024]

I just did not get the hype with this one. I think the bizarre ensemble of these actors were just "okay" to get by through the film. If it weren't for the top-tier production design and visual effects of Marvel, this another-superhero movie was rather mediocre and forgettable. But I was very impressed with the chemistry between the actors: the way they compliment and support each other was the best I've seen in the entire franchise. I also loved how important the film is to the entire MCU timeline, and how well it fit into the bigger picture. With its right amount of humor and drama it could be very well to its way to becoming a Marvel classic.

Self Reliance (2023)

HIGHLY-RECOMMENDED COMEDY OF THE YEAR

[6/10 · 6 February 2024]

I have such big respect to actors/directors and their dedication to create such bizarre but good films. This was definitely one good such example. I have never watch Jake Johnson in the big screen, and it was a delightful discovery for me how hilarious he is. I loved how innovative the story is. It was interesting because it makes the audience watch out for every subsequent scenes. I also loved how interesting and individualistic the supporting characters are. They really embodied their roles and they were integral to the story. The progress of the story was also exciting to watch from beginning to end.

The Pink Panther (2006)

STEVE MARTIN WAS A PERSONAL FAVORITE

[7/10 · 6 February 2024]

I was pleasantly surprised to know that Steve Martin was really hilarious and impressive in every role he portrays. He not only tickles my funny bone every time but he made his performances memorable and individualistic. A lot would argue that this was a good comedy but for me it really is. It was short but did not lack of everything seriously funny and genuinely-fun-to-watch scenes from beginning to end. Even the supporting characters played their roles amazingly. If there was one thing you can expect from Steve Martin and this director, it wss definitely not boredom. Kudos to the first installment of this franchise.

Night Swim (2024)

FIRST DISAPPOINTMENT OF 2024

[3/10 · 6 February 2024]

I was expecting so much more from this but I was so disappointed. I thought that the first horror movie of 2024 would give me and the audience a great and chilling start but it was not the case. The story and plot was mediocre and had great potential. Very rarely do we encounter a goof horror film with a brand theme such as this. It was more of a family conflict for me. But unlike Hereditary, it was so stale and unexciting. The plot could have been worth telling. The runtime was also too short for me. The cinematography was amazing though. It really captured the tension and aversion underwater.

Destroy All Neighbors (2024)

CRAZY AND FUN RIDE

[4/10 · 23 January 2024]

From a technical standpoint, I think this was one of the best horror comedies to come out of this year. I mean, I loved the cinematography and production design because it was so consistent with the themes and storyline. The actors were also fun to watch, and all were hilarious without trying too hard on their own. However, I just couldn't shake the feeling that you must be too bored to watch anything more decent to watch in order to enjoy this film. I mean, there were a lot of gore and crazy scenes which I normally loved in these kinds of horror, but I felt a little lost on the second half of it. Despite the happy ending in the end, I think this wouldn't stand a chance with its contemporaries.

Finding Nemo (2003)

AN ANIMATION CLASSIC THAT WILL STAND THE TEST OF TIME

[7/10 · 23 January 2024]

This was, after all these years, one of the very best and most iconic animation features produced by Pixar and Walt Disney. Not only was this amazing to watch for kids and to all ages, but this was also iconic in its plot and storyline. The dubbing and animation effects were so on-point it felt too advanced for its generation. The plot was not boring and at the same time simplistic in a way that it was easy to add certain details to make it way more fun to watch. The hype around it was definitely justifiable. It would have been more fun if it was longer, though. I could see myself watching this a bunch of times over and over again.

The Color Purple (2023)

AN INTERESTING REMAKE

[6/10 · 23 January 2024]

First of all, kudos to Fantasia Barrino, Colman Domingo and Danielle Brooks for their one-of-a-kind performances. They were heart-wrenching, and each put his/her own touch and character into it. Not only were they good but they embodied their roles so well without being too irritating to watch. The story and the plot were handed over and used a million times, and although I have not seen the musical itself, I cannot help but wonder if it really stood up to the essence and the vibe of the film. At times it felt flat if it weren't for the amazing music and emotional scenes. But, overall this was still worth watching.