martingreen-71835 Reviews

Misery (1990)

Thrilling and brutal

[8/10 · 10 March 2024]

Steven King never fails to deliver with his novels, and this movie adaptation of Misery (almost) does it justice.

It's inherently difficult for any movie adaptation to be as enjoyable as an original novel, and we see the same with this adaptation.

Like other reviewers I have read many of Stephen Kings novels long before they were adapted to the big screen. These adaptations have varied results, from brilliant to downright disappointing, and Misery seems to fall somewhere in the middle.

As a stand alone movie it's very enjoyable, the plot is quite simple, the characters are fascinating, and the acting is superb.

Kathy Bates delivers an Oscar worthy performance as Annie, a twisted, psychotic fan of a famous author, who by chance she is able to help. And this is where the movie gets very dark, with some scenes so brutal you have to look away from the screen.

I really liked this movie, yes it wasn't as good as the original Steven King novel, but if you can put this to one side, and enjoy the movie without any comparison you will not be disappointed.

Violet & Daisy (2011)

Sadly missed the target

[5/10 · 10 March 2024]

This movie started so well, full of action, violence and gore, but quickly goes off the boil.

Having innocent teenagers working as assassins is not unique in movies, but having two young girls as ranked assassins offered a formula for an interesting movie.

Violet and Daisy, our two young assassins deliver a number of character traits, from innocence, caring, through to cold blooded killers.

Although the move is rated R, there is not a lot of violence at all, and this is where the problem starts for me. The short bursts of action are followed by quite slow, dull and often boring scenes, which in fairness are there for us to learn more about each assassin, but sadly are way off target.

With more action, allowing the assassins to do what they should, this could have been a much better movie, and would have deserved a higher rating from me, and many others.

I feel this is a parody of a Tarantino movie, which didn't quite deliver.

Ricky Stanicky (2024)

Funny and simple entertainment

[6/10 · 10 March 2024]

Ricky Stanicky is a fun movie to watch, if you want to sit back, relax, laugh out loud without being challenged with any complex plots.

The plot is fairly unique, but seems all to familiar with the number of goofy and cringeworthy scenes throughout this movie.

To me the overall quality of the acting was just good enough, but thankfully Ricky was able to deliver a standout performance, which based on his character was somewhat of an achievement.

John Cena playing Ricky saved this movie, and although he can be a little typecast in his roles, he actually delivers a great performance here.

Lets not kid ourselves, this movie is not going to achieve any awards, but what it does is deliver light hearted comedy with a feel good factor thrown in.

If you take this movie for what it is, you will be entertained, just don't expect much more.

The Gentlemen (2024)

Guy Ritchie at his best

[9/10 · 10 March 2024]

A simply outstanding new series from Guy Ritchie, who has done it yet again.

This series will keep you hooked from the very first episode to the last. The plot, characters and the actors come together to deliver a truly enjoyable story.

Yes Guy Ritchie has his own style, which is all over this series, but his style delivers everything you will ever need, including comedy, drama, violence and a hint of romance thrown in there too.

The acting is very good, and you will see a number of old favourites in here, like Ray Winstone and Vinnie Jones, but there are so many other talented actors its difficult to say who is the star. I would personally say Vinnie Jones as the gamekeeper, and Pearce Quigley as Gospel John were my favourites.

This series comes to a natural conclusion in the final episode, but I like many really hope there will be a second series of The Gentlemen in the pipeline.

Watch it now.

Next Goal Wins (2023)

Lighthearted fun of all. Just one goal....

[7/10 · 6 March 2024]

Next Goal Wins is a movie that the whole family can watch together and enjoy.

It's a feel good movie based on true events, with a little bit of glamour thrown into the mix.

I was drawn to this movie as I spent a few weeks in Samoa earlier in my life, and quickly grew to love the people, the culture, and their genuine happiness for the simplicity of their lives.

I was hoping this movie would have touched on this a little more, but there are elements where the viewer gets to learn more about the Samoan culture.

Samoa is a beautiful place, which you get to see a little throughout the movie.

But back to the movie, it's fun, touching in places and very heartwarming as you join the Samoan national team on their journey to achieve 'success' in world class football.

Next Goal Wins is an easy, relaxing and enjoyable movie for all ages, it's not going to challenge you with a complex plot, but a simple goal for a nation, so join in and cheer them along.

Very enjoyable, and worthy of the good reviews.

The Tourist (2022–2024)

Great show, but a little let down by the second season

[7/10 · 6 March 2024]

I jumped into season 1 without expectations, or actually reading any reviews, but quickly grew to enjoy the acting and the plot.

It's not Hollywood, but none the less great performances by the main characters, and a plot that keeps you guessing all the way through.

This show has everything, from romance, drama, plot twists, tragedy and some good old Australian dry humour.

You can't take it too seriously, and I think that is exactly how it was written for the audience.

Others have mentioned it starts a little slow, and I would agree, but this keeps the viewer wanting more, which is delivered in later episodes.

And now, onto Season 2.

I had high hopes for another season of the tourist, which was a nice continuation from where season 1 ended.

We see the main characters return again, Helen and Elliot, but this time set in Elliots home country Ireland.

This season starts off much quicker than the first season, and has a much different style.

Again the plot has a lot of twists, and side stories to keep you entertained, but this is where the challenges start.

A number of the side characters are just unrealistic, and the scenarios created are just unbelievable. Whether this was intentional or not, to me it spoilt the second season a lot.

I would recommend this tv series to anyone, with the caveat the second season may not deliver as well as the first.

Who knows, will there be a season 3...!

Poor Things (2023)

Weird and Wonderful

[8/10 · 6 March 2024]

Where to start with this movie.?

It's weird, wonderful, strange, odd, bizarre and so much more, yet it is truly enjoyable.

With a top class line up of actors, all delivering wonderful performances, even though their characters are very odd indeed.

The storyline is unique, and although I struggled initially with the main character Bella, she quickly grew on me and to an extent she matured in the movie.

Bella Baxter played by Emma Stone is uncomfortable initially, but as her character matures, expanding her knowledge, her performance shines.

With a list of other top class actors, like Dafoe and Ruffalo the acting is always great.

It would be impossible to slot this movie into a genre, its odd, funny, brutal, graphic, but all with an underlying love story, albeit a rather unique take on a love story.

Ignore the haters, this is a spectacle to watch, very entertaining and certainly keeps you engaged to the very end.

The Woman in the Wall (2023–2024)

Outstanding Drama

[9/10 · 6 March 2024]

The Woman in the Wall is simply outstanding, and should be enjoyed by all who watch it.

Based upon the appalling treatment of younger girls by the Catholic Churches in Ireland, this tv series can be difficult to watch in places

It is very harrowing, and Ruth Wilson takes you through every emotion and memory she feels as if it were your own.

The pain and suffering many of the younger Irish girls endured during those times is abhorrent, and should never have been allowed to continue as it did. This series highlights their experience, which sadly many people will be completely unaware of.

The plot is fantastic, with lots of twists that will keep you guessing right until the very end.

It's certainly not an easy watch, but is very compelling, and I highly recommend watching.

The main character Lorna, played by Ruth Wilson is outstanding, and deserves all of the acclaim she receives.

Sexy Beast (2024– )

Trying too hard

[4/10 · 6 March 2024]

I eagerly awaited the release of the Sexy Beast series, which is a prequel to the original movie of the same name, released in 2000.

I am a big fan of the original Sexy Beast movie, with outstanding performances from Ray Winstone and Ben Kingsley, along with the supporting actors.

This new series, to me, was disappointing throughout.

The acting is so over the top, too stereotypical, and to be honest I felt they were all trying too hard to act out their characters. This is a shame as there a number of talented actors included, who I have witnessed deliver far better in other movies and series.

Personally I felt let down, there was an opportunity to deliver a series on par with the original movie, but it never happened.

I did watch every episode, and gave the series more than a good chance to impress me, but sadly it never did.

Spaceman (I) (2024)

Love it or hate it.?

[4/10 · 6 March 2024]

There are mixed reviews on the movie, and I can see why.

The plot is good, the acting in places was very good, however for me, it was a slow dull movie.

I wasn't expecting typical Adam Sandler style acting, and to be fair he did play his part very well.

However the movie never really delivered, and the pace was far too slow.

Many of the reviewers are claiming this is a modern sci-fi masterpiece, on par with the sci-fi movies of the 70's where writers and directors imagined how the future would be.

I was fortunate enough to enjoy those movies in the 70s and I don't feel 'Spaceman' can be likened to them in any way.

It's frustratingly slow, with the occasional hint of something good is about to happen, but for me it never did.

Maybe my expectations were too high, maybe I should have read the book first, but I was left disappointed.

If you are scared of spiders, do not watch this movie.!

Land of Bad (2024)

I'm the cavalry

[7/10 · 22 February 2024]

A surprisingly entertaining and enjoyable movie based on modern warfare.

I'm not usually a fan of war movies, but with a cast including Liam Hemsworth and Russell Crowe I gave it a chance, and I am glad I did.

It's your typical good guys vs bad guys movie, with the obligatory fighting, bombs and action which in general work quite well.

However this movie relies heavily on modern warfare tactics, with drones, eye in the sky, and missiles which adds something a little different.

The acting is quite good, and although some of the characters are somewhat stereotypical and lack imagination, but not enough to spoil the movie.

The plot is a little over the top, unrealistic, has a few unlikely turns, but its an action movie at heart, and this allows the writers free reign over the plot.

It's never going to compete with the likes of Saving Private Ryan, but was likely never intended to do so.

It's a fun movie watch, that doesn't challenge the viewer too much.!

Legend (I) (2015)

An amazing double act

[9/10 · 20 February 2024]

There are countless movies and documentaries focusing on the lives of the infamous Kray twins, which range from average to very good.

This version however is outstanding, and in my opinion the best of the bunch.

Casting Tom Hardy to play both of the Kray twins in this movie was simply an act of pure genius. It's sometimes difficult to believe it is the same actor playing both roles, as he delivers two very different characters outstandingly. In fact he plays both roles so well you quickly forget it is the same actor.

Whether or not we should be glamourising criminal activity, this movie gives an insight into the family bonds, the gangs of the time, the relationships and the violence.

Emily Browning also delivers an outstanding performance, from a young naive lady, to later marry a Kray, but also have the courage to stand up to him.

It's a great movie, which I have watched a number of times, and each time it delivers the same level of enjoyment.

Miller's Girl (2024)

Disappointing

[4/10 · 18 February 2024]

This movie had so much potential, but sadly failed to deliver.

With two very talented actors headlining the movie, and although the storyline has been done so many times before, it should have delivered a more entertaining movie.

Martin Freeman and Jenna Ortega have delivered some standout performances in previous movies, and this is what I was hoping for.

Sadly they did not reach their full potential, and although acting in places was very good, in others it was almost painful to watch.

The script was average to say the least, which may have restricted the actors ability to perform at their best, which is such a shame.

The plot is far too simple, and although at times there was a hint of chemistry between Martin and Jenna, it quickly disappeared and I was just waiting for the movie to be over.

In summary, had potential, but didn't deliver.

It's easy to watch, but will leave you a little dissapointed.

The Iron Claw (2023)

Fake, there's nothing fake about what we do

[9/10 · 18 February 2024]

Whether you are a fan of wrestling or not, this is a must see movie.

It's one of the best sports related movies I have ever watched, and with a compelling storyline based on true events makes this a movie you do not want to miss.

This movie takes you on a roller coaster of emotions, from the highest of highs, to the lowest of lows.

It's almost unbelievable the Von Erich family have achieved such success with their passion for wrestling, but this comes with many challenges, and many tragedies that follow, which will leave you questioning was it all really worth it.?

The Iron Claw delivers so well on many levels. The characters, the acting, the true story, the raw emotions, and the list just goes on ad on.

Watch this movie, you will not be disappointed..!

How to Have Sex (2023)

Never met its potential

[4/10 · 17 February 2024]

I have very mixed feelings about this movie.

I guess my expectations were high based on reviews, and also the fact it was produced by Film4, who regularly deliver exceptional movies.

The acting ranges from great in places, to very poor , almost amateurish which is a shame as I know the main characters have much more potential.

There are too many stereotypes and cliches in this movie to keep you entertained, and it really failed to deliver a compelling storyline to me.

It's too predictable, a group of girls on holiday to enjoy themselves, a group of boys who are also on holiday, but with far less morals, which is too much stereotyping for me.

The movie touches on a couple of very challenging interactions between the groups, but they are not fully explored and it feels almost like they were added just to challenge the viewer.

There are countless emotions included in this movie, from friendship, fun, loneliness, coming of age, objectification, awakening, etc, but they don't gel together very well.

Although some of the actors deliver great performances, and will no doubt deliver even better performances in the future, it was not enough for me to cover for what I consider a weak storyline.

The Light in the Hall (2022)

Surprisingly good

[7/10 · 10 February 2024]

The script, the characters and the acting is so well delivered in this TV series. With a few well known faces delivering very good performances its definitely a good series to watch.

There are a lot of series based around very similar, and almost predictable storylines that struggle to keep you interested.

This is not one of those, with a very clever storyline, feeding the view little nuggets of information through the episodes, it keeps you hooked until the very last episode.

An avid viewer will likely put all the pieces together, and guess who did it. But it's not until the final episode when you finally discover exactly what happened.

It's easy to watch, not overly complex, and the character development all come together to deliver a very watchable series.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry (2023)

Sit back, relax and enjoy this feel good movie

[7/10 · 8 February 2024]

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is an easy to watch movie, but has so much appeal to most viewers. I am not sure which demographic the movie is targeting, but most adults will relate to the story, the characters and the morals.

It is a most heartwarming and emotional movie, telling the story of Harold Fry, an ordinary man who decides to help a long forgotten friend, who as you will find out he is indebted to.

Harold is very easy to warm to, we all have family or friends in his age group and will understand his actions, his old school manners, his emotions and also the naivety of his journey.

The movie drifts off a little in places, but still very enjoyable to watch.

Very good acting by the lead roles, just a few challenging pilgrim characters, which in my option slightly detracted from the storyline.

Sit back, relax and enjoy this feel good movie.

Wonka (2023)

Entertaining, but not quite a masterpiece

[6/10 · 1 February 2024]

Where to start with Wonka..?

I grew up in the era of the original Willy Wonka movie, which has been watched and enjoyed countless times during my life. So to compare the new Wonka movie to the original would be a little unfair.

I did have such high expectations for the new Wonka, and was desperate to watch the movie. The movie trailers had me hooked, the outstanding list of actors just added to the anticipation, as well as the buzz and reviews of the movie.

In its own right the new Wonka movie is very good, the sets, the acting, the star studded cast, tick every box on how to create a blockbuster. But to me it didn't quite hit the mark, and I somehow felt it could have been better.

But don't get me wrong, it is highly enjoyable to watch, and takes you on a very special journey where age doesn't matter, and the movie will be enjoyed by young and old.

You have to watch to make up your own mind, but I feel many of the ten star reviews are maybe a little biased.?

The Beekeeper (2024)

Very Enjoyable Action Movie

[7/10 · 1 February 2024]

Who doesn't love a good action movie hero.?

Jason Statham never fails to deliver in his movies, and although most are over the top, non stop never ending and unrealistic action, they are easy to watch and thoroughly enjoyable.

Over the decades we see many action movie heroes, and Jason seems to have firmly found his place in Hollywood.

The acting is quite good, the fighting and action scenes are very much over the top, but what else would you be watching an action movie for.?

This movie is certainly not going to challenge any viewer, but it delivers on entertainment to the max.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy Jason doing his thing.

Léon: The Professional (1994)

A masterpiece

[9/10 · 29 January 2024]

Leon: The professional was a cinematic masterpiece when it was originally released, and now thirty years later it still feels just as good.

Not many movies will stand the test of time, and the choice to revisit movies you enjoyed years ago can often lead to disappointment, but this is certainly not the case for Leon.

The acting is incredible, Leon is so believable, with no arrogance that can often be felt in similar movies. He is a complex character, a man of little words, but none the less outstanding.

Matilda, a young Natalie Portman is simply outstanding for her age, with a talent rarely seen in such a young actor, who was only 12 years old when the movie was filmed. Her talent is clearly obvious, even at an early age.

Stansfield played by Gary Oldman is possibly a little too strange for my liking. This isn't to say he was bad in any way at all, but maybe just a little to unbelievable and over the top as a corrupt police man.

The movie keeps you entertained throughout, with action, drama, along with a bond that matures between the two main characters.

If you missed this movie when it was first released you need to add this to your 'must watch' list, and if you have already watched this movie it is definitely worth watching and enjoying again.

Reservation Dogs (2021–2023)

Highly recommended on many levels

[9/10 · 21 January 2024]

This show is brilliant on so many levels.

The storyline, casting, character development and so much more are all delivered perfectly.

All of the acting warrants a high rating, not only from the main characters, but right through to the side characters, they are all acted so well.

The humour is always delivered so well, sometimes laugh out loud moments, sometimes more subtle but every episode is a pleasure to watch.

Most of us will be unfamiliar with daily life on a native Indian reservation, and the struggles faced. But this show educates us on traditional culture, and the aspirations of the younger generations, who want a different life from their ancestors, but also respect the very strong traditions of their forefathers.

This show has everything you could want, and is a rollercoaster of emotions for many of the characters, but it always leaves you happy you have watched.

Their are so many familiar faces, which you will recognise from earlier shows and more recent shows.

Highly recommended on many levels.

Sweet Tooth (2021– )

Give it a go, you won't be dissapointed

[8/10 · 20 January 2024]

I missed this series when originally launched, and although I did read the many positive reviews at the time I was unsure if it was for me. However, that was a big mistake and after recently watching the first series I am hooked.

The storyline, characters and settings are truly wonderful and will keep you engrossed at all times.

There is a bit of everything in this show, from fantasy, action, mystery, plot twists and so much more. It's going to keep everyone hooked on this show.

The series is based around Gus, whose acting ability is quite simply outstanding for his young age. His portrayol of a young 'hybrid' captures every emotion, from naivety, innocence, happiness and sorrow.

I have just completed the first series, and am eager to watch the second series.

I mistakingly believed this series was aimed more at kids or young teenagers, but I was so wrong, watch it now.!

Boy Swallows Universe (2024)

A bonza series, not to be missed

[8/10 · 20 January 2024]

Wow, what a wonderful series based around suburban life in Australia, with a dysfunctional family.

All of the characters are great, and all bring their own value to the series, which keeps you entertained throughout.

A special mention must be given to the young Eli and Gus. They are exceptional actors, and hopefully this is just one of many productions we will see them in.

You don't need to be Australian to enjoy this series, but if you are, there are many references to enjoy and relate to.

It's great to see a series come to a natural ending, and not leaving the plot open for another series. However I could see how a second series would work, when the family are a little older.

The Great Escaper (2023)

Poignant performances by English acting royalty

[7/10 · 15 January 2024]

A feel good movie, with such a wonderful story based on true events.

Although the movie is a little slow in places, the two main characters played by Michael Caine and Glenda Jackson are nothing short of outstanding, and deserve the accolade they are receiving.

In real life they are both in their golden years, and the characters they play are of a similar age, but they are so believable, and you warm to them almost immediately, just like your own family.

The Great Escaper is both enjoyable and easy to watch, all of the characters are played so well, and the emotions felt whilst watching are so real, it's a movie all will enjoy.

It's never going to be a Hollywood blockbuster, and was likely never intended to be. It's just a wonderful real story brought to the screen, with the help of two truly wonderful actors.

Napoleon (2023)

Very Watchable, but doesn't quite deliver

[6/10 · 12 January 2024]

With a star studded cast, stunning and often bleak locations, and not least, Ridley Scott directing this is a movie that ticks all of the boxes, and should deliver a truly cinematic masterpiece.!

Well, for me it didn't quite deliver, and although it was an enjoyable movie to watch, I was left feeling this could have been so much better, and even be a blockbuster.

It's hard to define where or how it didn't quite deliver, but for me it was very slow in places, and without being a history buff I was unable to truly relate to the plot.

Acting in places was superb, and the number of well know actors should have delivered something more than it did.

I didn't finish the movie feeling disappointed, I enjoyed the movie, but felt this could have been so much better.

And my main niggle, which others may also agree, the dialogue is all in English. While to some this makes the movie easier to watch, it became frustrating to me as all characters regardless of nationality spoke English, without any hint of an accent.

Maybe this isn't a big issue for others, but in countless scenes where different nationalities are talking, its easy to get confused who is who.!

It's a very watchable movie, and if like me you are not a history buff it will educate you on a very interesting historical character.