Alex Gardland's Civil War was divisive the moment A24 announced they'd release it in an election year - however, it's only really divisive if you haven't seen the film. Civil War showcases stellar action set pieces, surreal urban warfare & a solid narrative but it is utterly disinterested in the politics surrounding the causes of the civil war depicted. Prior to watching the film, I thought this was cowardly. After seeing the film, I understand why Garland chose to tell the story in the way he did. I think he did an excellent job at making the movie HE wanted to make, even though it will not appease the partisans or those expecting a drama or political thriller. This is not interested in the elements you may perceive. It's much more interested in wartime journalism & the budding relationship of Kirsten Dunst & Cailee Spaeny. Jesse Plemons steals the entire 5 minutes he's on screen. Spaeny is definitely my favorite performance of the leads, much more lively and kiddish than Priscilla while also showing how quickly we grow up under extreme circumstances. I think this is a good movie that will age better than we expect. Offerman's President character definitely is portrayed to talk in a Trumpy way in the beginning of the film but outside of this and some throwaway dialogue about stuff like "the Antifa massacre" are really the only overtly political ideas but again, this is all basically throwaway dialog. Garland wanted to make a modern warfare film set in America. He accomplished that without ruffling too many feathers and producing something that is enthralling and entertaining. But yeah - he kind of cops out by deciding not to wade into any of the causes of the civil war. His film, his choice.
Reviews
23 Reviews
Civil War
(2024)
The movie you saw vs the movie you wanted it to be?
12 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Cat Person
(I) (2023)
Dobler or Dahmer?
11 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Cat Person is best when you withhold judgement until the end as a viewer. Early judgement of this plot will lead you to misconstrue its ideas. I found Cat Person thought provoking, witty and well directed.
The plot of Cat Person is a real life reflection of Ted Mosby's "Dobler or Dahmer Theory" from 2000's sitcom How I Met Your Mother. The theory says that romantic gestures are only charming if the recipient is into the other person, making them a Dobler in the eyes of the recipient, referencing Lloyd Dobler in Say Anything. If the recipient of the romantic gesture is not into the other person, the recipient views them as a Dahmer, referencing serial-killer Jeffery Dahmer. Cat Person explores this theory as it occurs in the real world and the consequences that can bare out of the poor reception of romantic gestures. In an era where sensitivity to this has heightened, Cat Person effectively allows for viewers to draw their own point of view yet it sincerely believes in the Dobler or Dahmer Theory.
It is cynical about the benevolence of any party involved in romantic affairs, putting multiple ways of coming up short in these situations on display for us to interpret. Nicholas Braun & Emelia Jones choosing this film as their first projects after Succession & CODA, respectively, seems to be a smart choice to me. Good film. Recommend.
The plot of Cat Person is a real life reflection of Ted Mosby's "Dobler or Dahmer Theory" from 2000's sitcom How I Met Your Mother. The theory says that romantic gestures are only charming if the recipient is into the other person, making them a Dobler in the eyes of the recipient, referencing Lloyd Dobler in Say Anything. If the recipient of the romantic gesture is not into the other person, the recipient views them as a Dahmer, referencing serial-killer Jeffery Dahmer. Cat Person explores this theory as it occurs in the real world and the consequences that can bare out of the poor reception of romantic gestures. In an era where sensitivity to this has heightened, Cat Person effectively allows for viewers to draw their own point of view yet it sincerely believes in the Dobler or Dahmer Theory.
It is cynical about the benevolence of any party involved in romantic affairs, putting multiple ways of coming up short in these situations on display for us to interpret. Nicholas Braun & Emelia Jones choosing this film as their first projects after Succession & CODA, respectively, seems to be a smart choice to me. Good film. Recommend.
Anatomy of a Fall
(2023)
A feat of film
27 October 2023
Sandra Hüller stars as a wife accused of murdering her husband. And man, from the moment this film started, I was entranced. To avoid spoilers, I'm primarily writing here about the technical aspects of this film. The camera work invokes specific emotion at every turn. Whether we are looking into eyes of her son or experiencing the eerily quiet surroundings of snow and ice, the cinematography is delightfully deliberate through every scene. The music & sound production is nothing short of amazing, although it does not dominate a rather quiet, understated film, it certainly is critical to the story. I was left rather silent by this film's conclusion and I cannot get so many of its specific details out of my mind. This film may be my favorite of the year. It is emotionally resonant in ways I did not expect, shot & edited to perfection and is carried by Sandra Hüller in one of the greatest individual performances of the past 5 years. Must watch.
The Irrational
(2023– )
Watch for Jesse Martin, But Don't Stay
6 October 2023
I made it through two episodes of this pretty generic, very average show. Jesse L. Martin is great in a weirdly written main role. I don't even have a lot to say about this show because it really lacks substance. It feels like ChatGPT was fed a bunch of crime shows and asked to use the common denominators to write a new show. It's so unoriginal even though it has an original angle of behavioral analysis. That angle is simply not explored or fleshed out enough. But again, I can't say enough about Martin because he is the only reason I made it through two episodes. When this show is inevitably cancelled in 2-3 seasons, I hope it does not reflect poorly on him.
The Creator
(2023)
Clear Perspective, Dazzling Display
28 September 2023
The Creator begins with 15 minutes of truly fantastic world building. Sci-fi has been an uninventive genre in the superhero age, often attempting to mask poor storytelling with excessive, bad VFX. While The Crestor isn't perfect, this film certainly has a unique structure, perspective, refreshing uniqueness and is built from a clear vision of a filmmaker
This movie is meant to be seen in IMAX or Dolby. Seeing it in Dolby absolutely enhanced the experience of intense visuals with perfectly mixed sound. This is a technically excellent movie.
The Creator has a definitive perspective, leaving little room for the audience to draw vastly different opinions on the film's protagonists. When the film takes its few breaks from the heavy action, it is a bit inconsistent and can drag.
What makes The Creator enjoyable definitely outshines what drags it down. I think most sci-fi fans will enjoy this movie.
This movie is meant to be seen in IMAX or Dolby. Seeing it in Dolby absolutely enhanced the experience of intense visuals with perfectly mixed sound. This is a technically excellent movie.
The Creator has a definitive perspective, leaving little room for the audience to draw vastly different opinions on the film's protagonists. When the film takes its few breaks from the heavy action, it is a bit inconsistent and can drag.
What makes The Creator enjoyable definitely outshines what drags it down. I think most sci-fi fans will enjoy this movie.
Blue Beetle
(2023)
Is DC..... back?
21 August 2023
Not yet but finally we have a step in the right direction. I chose to see Blue Beetle on a whim, because I love George Lopez and the Blue Beetle character in multiple Teen Titans runs. My expectations were pretty low and they were blown away. This movie isn't perfect, but I didn't expect to enjoy it nearly as much as I did. The theme of family allows this film to be a classic coming of age tale wrapped inside the "I don't want to be a superhero" trope.
Blue Beetle made me and a lot of my theater laugh out loud constantly throughout the film. It was quite funny. Xolo Maridueña is charming and committed as the lead, Jaime Reyes. His facial a& body acting was especially good and really sold the role for me. George Lopez is absolutely hilarious and delivers multiple chaotic screams that sent me. Jaime's family is very well done, comedic, soulful and a pleasurable addition to the story.
The range of quality on digital effects is sorta wide. When just Jaime as the Blue Beetle is on the screen, I think the digital effects are quite good. When other effects and characters in CGI suits are added, they definitely fall down a peg.
Bruna Marquezine, playing Jaime's love interest, was one of the weaker performances. Her American accent went in and out and it really took me out of the movie at times. Her character isn't too well written either which doesn't help.
Susan Sarandon's villain character is something. I like the archetype, I don't care for the execution, and I think she's a bit of a caricature of a super villain by the end.
I think people should see this movie. If you spent time to see The Flash, Batman v Superman, Wonder Woman 1984, Black Adam or Shazam 2, you should ABSOLUTELY see Blue Beetle. It is far superior to many DCEU entries of the past 5-7 years.
Blue Beetle made me and a lot of my theater laugh out loud constantly throughout the film. It was quite funny. Xolo Maridueña is charming and committed as the lead, Jaime Reyes. His facial a& body acting was especially good and really sold the role for me. George Lopez is absolutely hilarious and delivers multiple chaotic screams that sent me. Jaime's family is very well done, comedic, soulful and a pleasurable addition to the story.
The range of quality on digital effects is sorta wide. When just Jaime as the Blue Beetle is on the screen, I think the digital effects are quite good. When other effects and characters in CGI suits are added, they definitely fall down a peg.
Bruna Marquezine, playing Jaime's love interest, was one of the weaker performances. Her American accent went in and out and it really took me out of the movie at times. Her character isn't too well written either which doesn't help.
Susan Sarandon's villain character is something. I like the archetype, I don't care for the execution, and I think she's a bit of a caricature of a super villain by the end.
I think people should see this movie. If you spent time to see The Flash, Batman v Superman, Wonder Woman 1984, Black Adam or Shazam 2, you should ABSOLUTELY see Blue Beetle. It is far superior to many DCEU entries of the past 5-7 years.
Sanctuary
(I) (2022)
Qualley Everywhere
20 July 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Margaret Qualley provides an outstanding performance in this film. Sanctuary's premise is rather simple: a wealthy nepo-baby is inheriting his father's company and is being extorted by his dominatrix (and lover?). While Christopher Abbott is solid, it's really Qualley who delivers the exceptional acting. She carries this film through her intensity, exuberance and sexiness.
For a film like this to work, you need the tension to feel real. The consistent argumentative dialog must feel improved. Qualley absolutely nails this. She is able to dangle sex appeal enigmatically while making the audience deeply aware of how wounded her character is. I was disappointed with the ending, would've much preferred the dark path set forth early in this film to never come back around to "love story."
For a film like this to work, you need the tension to feel real. The consistent argumentative dialog must feel improved. Qualley absolutely nails this. She is able to dangle sex appeal enigmatically while making the audience deeply aware of how wounded her character is. I was disappointed with the ending, would've much preferred the dark path set forth early in this film to never come back around to "love story."
65
(2023)
What a 90 minute waster
19 July 2023
I watched 65 this past weekend with the fam. We were all so incredibly disappointed, even coming in with minimal expectations. Scott Beck has written movies that are GOOD. Adam Driver is in mostly good movies. Even the elevator pitch for 65 sounds good! I imagine this movie was pitched as a sci-fi film anyone could see with no lore or background needed, simply "what if humans actually came to Earth 65 million years ago from another planet and encountered dinosaurs" which sounds like a film with great potential.
Two major problems exist in this film. The first is the lack of genre decision. The trailer plays like a horror film, "what if humans came to earth & encounter dinosaurs" with lots of jump scares and thrilling uncertainty. It wasn't that, or really anything. It's not sci-fi outside of its setting, it's not thrilling or scary. It's just boring.
The second major problem is having an incredibly talented lead actor and not letting them cook. Adam Driver has led some incredible projects in his short time as a star. He's got dramatic chops and range. This film gave him literally nothing to play with. Wow, this was truly bad.
Two major problems exist in this film. The first is the lack of genre decision. The trailer plays like a horror film, "what if humans came to earth & encounter dinosaurs" with lots of jump scares and thrilling uncertainty. It wasn't that, or really anything. It's not sci-fi outside of its setting, it's not thrilling or scary. It's just boring.
The second major problem is having an incredibly talented lead actor and not letting them cook. Adam Driver has led some incredible projects in his short time as a star. He's got dramatic chops and range. This film gave him literally nothing to play with. Wow, this was truly bad.
Biosphere
(2022)
Small Scope, Huge Idea
11 July 2023
There's a lot I like about Biosphere and a lot that didn't fit right for me. The obvious thing that works about this film are it's performances by Sterling K Brown and Mark Duplass. Brown brings a sturdiness to Duplass's humor, creating a great dynamic that is fun to watch and believable. Brown's character Ray provides a grounding to such a serious moment. Duplass's Billy brings the levity necessary to keep two guys in a small dome funny and fresh. Some of the dialog and plot points in this film are absolutely hilarious.
This film has a huge idea and a very small scope to demonstrate it. The choice to skip most of the exposition in how we got here is welcome. I enjoy not being spoon fed the situation, reading clues and attempting to discover what has happened and what will happen is much more satisfying. Throughout the film, I kept wondering "how will they wrap this up?" And they did so by leaving all of the plot points as loose ends which will bother many who watch Biosphere. I didn't mind this choice but the ending left me with a bit of a "then what?" Feeling.
It's hard to review this film without spoilers, but there is so much to the backstory that is never fleshed out, no flashbacks, no additional settings or characters. With such a small scope, some will be very aggrieved at this, others will be content like I was to explore what we do know. This scope hampers the development of place and time but enhances the interest in our two characters and their potential outcomes. The feeling of place in this movie is quite distinct but somewhat empty given our lack of outside knowledge.
Making a film that explores a theory becoming reality is incredibly challenging. Duplass and Brown are able to deliver on this tall, daunting task but it's not great by any stretch.
This film has a huge idea and a very small scope to demonstrate it. The choice to skip most of the exposition in how we got here is welcome. I enjoy not being spoon fed the situation, reading clues and attempting to discover what has happened and what will happen is much more satisfying. Throughout the film, I kept wondering "how will they wrap this up?" And they did so by leaving all of the plot points as loose ends which will bother many who watch Biosphere. I didn't mind this choice but the ending left me with a bit of a "then what?" Feeling.
It's hard to review this film without spoilers, but there is so much to the backstory that is never fleshed out, no flashbacks, no additional settings or characters. With such a small scope, some will be very aggrieved at this, others will be content like I was to explore what we do know. This scope hampers the development of place and time but enhances the interest in our two characters and their potential outcomes. The feeling of place in this movie is quite distinct but somewhat empty given our lack of outside knowledge.
Making a film that explores a theory becoming reality is incredibly challenging. Duplass and Brown are able to deliver on this tall, daunting task but it's not great by any stretch.
Boyhood
(I) (2014)
Traumatically Beautiful, Uniquely Crafted
10 July 2023
Shooting a movie over a 12 year timeframe is a daunting task. Richard Linklater and crew not only accomplish this feat, but they hit it out of the park. Boyhood is the only film I've ever heard to be shot in such a way and I wish someone else had the courage to try. Linklater's Boyhood focuses on themes of family and trauma. This film hit so close to home for me. I could probably write 20 pages about it but I'll keep this to my 2-3 highlights.
One scene really stands out in my mind - following the drunken abuse debacle with her second husband, mom and her kids leave the house frantically with nothing, only to arrive at a friends house with the kids playing Wii like they didn't just experience a truly traumatic event. This is what it's like to be a kid and witness such horrific events around you. One moment, you're crying, the next moment, you're playing Wii Sports. Ethan Hawk's role as the father who wasn't ready is relatable, heartfelt and the beating drum of the entire film to me. Linklater's decision to have the biological dad figure be supportive, involved and around as a positive figure to his children is welcome and memorable. Hawk just embodies single dad energy in all the ways.
Having a film like this consistently move throughout time without title cards is a bold choice but perhaps my favorite choice about this movie. Instead of letting you know when we are in time, Linklater beautifully combines pop culture moments, an iconically 2000's score and small visuals to keep the audience aware of where we are in the timeline of a film spanning 12 years in reality and production.
This is one of my favorite films ever. Worth every minute of its 2hr 49min runtime.
One scene really stands out in my mind - following the drunken abuse debacle with her second husband, mom and her kids leave the house frantically with nothing, only to arrive at a friends house with the kids playing Wii like they didn't just experience a truly traumatic event. This is what it's like to be a kid and witness such horrific events around you. One moment, you're crying, the next moment, you're playing Wii Sports. Ethan Hawk's role as the father who wasn't ready is relatable, heartfelt and the beating drum of the entire film to me. Linklater's decision to have the biological dad figure be supportive, involved and around as a positive figure to his children is welcome and memorable. Hawk just embodies single dad energy in all the ways.
Having a film like this consistently move throughout time without title cards is a bold choice but perhaps my favorite choice about this movie. Instead of letting you know when we are in time, Linklater beautifully combines pop culture moments, an iconically 2000's score and small visuals to keep the audience aware of where we are in the timeline of a film spanning 12 years in reality and production.
This is one of my favorite films ever. Worth every minute of its 2hr 49min runtime.
Bodies Bodies Bodies
(2022)
For Gen Z Only
10 July 2023
Bodies Bodies Bodies is stupid, simple, fun, funny, lame and ridiculous all at the same time. Being on the older end of Gen Z, I found this movie like listening to some Twitter thread of 17 year old liberal girls bantering with Joe Rogan stans. Some may hate that idea but it comically hits at times. The dialog doesn't venture to be cringy nearly as often as films that have attempted similar tones.
The twist fits the tone so well. Pete Davidson and Lee Pace bring the right change of pace to this comedic and talented female ensemble. Rachel Sennott and Maria Bakalova are the winners, as you'd expect.
The theme of how humans respond to threats is a better focus than most horror movies. I don't care for many horror movies, I didn't care a ton for Bodies Bodies Bodies, but I certainly had more fun than 99% of other "horror" films and would recommend this to a young group of people. I would not recommend this film to anyone over 30.
The twist fits the tone so well. Pete Davidson and Lee Pace bring the right change of pace to this comedic and talented female ensemble. Rachel Sennott and Maria Bakalova are the winners, as you'd expect.
The theme of how humans respond to threats is a better focus than most horror movies. I don't care for many horror movies, I didn't care a ton for Bodies Bodies Bodies, but I certainly had more fun than 99% of other "horror" films and would recommend this to a young group of people. I would not recommend this film to anyone over 30.
One Last Run
6 July 2023
Crystal Skull is the only Indy movie I saw in theaters since I'm young. Its the worst Indiana Jones movie and its not close. Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny holds up to the original trilogy in my opinion. Mangold's direction is able to recapture 75% of Spielberg's magic. The visual gags of Spielberg are certainly missing, but Mangold nails several Indy best scenes: chase scenes & gross insects especially.
Harrison Ford is a star of cinema in my life. He is iconically two of the greatest characters to ever cross the screen, and he delivers his usual charisma and charm like no one else can. The movie plays to his age thoughtfully without beating a dead horse. I found the opening sequence of de-aging way more fun and way less cringe than anticipated. The fact that de-aged Ford only happens for the first 20 minutes and it's done mostly well saved a big fear of mine in this movie.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge is well cast. She adds charm and a flavor of Ford's youthful exuberance from the first films. Her character is a more complex version of Mut. If you enjoy her performance check out her show, Flea Bag. Her ability to step in on some of this practical, more stunt heavy film is surprising given her background and previous projects. The use of frequent practical effects & on site shooting certainly is welcome and refreshing in an age of CGI & green screens.
The film had a lot of possibilities of going wrong. Old Harrison Ford, CGI in a movie mostly known for practical effects, bad script, time travel and an iconic legacy to uphold. Somehow, it subverts expectations, delivers a fun installment to conclude Ford's run. I had a blast watching this in an IMAX theater. I would rate it as the 3rd best Indy film. I hope everyone goes to see it in a movie theater.
Harrison Ford is a star of cinema in my life. He is iconically two of the greatest characters to ever cross the screen, and he delivers his usual charisma and charm like no one else can. The movie plays to his age thoughtfully without beating a dead horse. I found the opening sequence of de-aging way more fun and way less cringe than anticipated. The fact that de-aged Ford only happens for the first 20 minutes and it's done mostly well saved a big fear of mine in this movie.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge is well cast. She adds charm and a flavor of Ford's youthful exuberance from the first films. Her character is a more complex version of Mut. If you enjoy her performance check out her show, Flea Bag. Her ability to step in on some of this practical, more stunt heavy film is surprising given her background and previous projects. The use of frequent practical effects & on site shooting certainly is welcome and refreshing in an age of CGI & green screens.
The film had a lot of possibilities of going wrong. Old Harrison Ford, CGI in a movie mostly known for practical effects, bad script, time travel and an iconic legacy to uphold. Somehow, it subverts expectations, delivers a fun installment to conclude Ford's run. I had a blast watching this in an IMAX theater. I would rate it as the 3rd best Indy film. I hope everyone goes to see it in a movie theater.
Past Lives
(2023)
All The Dudes Cried
26 June 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I saw Past Lives alone on a Sunday morning with 3 other single men in the theater. We all sat in opposite corners. Every single one of us cried, shamelessly, out loud as this movie concluded. If your movie makes 4 dudes show up alone to a movie at 10:30am on a Sunday and cry, you hit it out of the park.
Past Lives takes an intimate look at the people we disconnect, and reconnect with, over the course of our lives. Specifically focusing on reconnecting with a childhood crush, Past Lives features an elite performance from Greta Lee in the lead role. She displays a range of emotion from tears you can feel to the somber, dry expressions many show when they simply don't know how to express their feelings.
This film moves fast even though its pace is slow. The dialog shifting languages keeps your attention and creates the beautiful cultural connection needed to make this story of an immigrant and the man who stayed behind work. The way this story builds Greta's life in NY at the moment you believe they're finally going to connect... god this movie got me.
I was blown away by this movie. It's the most I've felt in a movie in a long time. Sadness, angst, loneliness, fear, human connection. Past Lives is what most slow paced dramas wish they could be.
Past Lives takes an intimate look at the people we disconnect, and reconnect with, over the course of our lives. Specifically focusing on reconnecting with a childhood crush, Past Lives features an elite performance from Greta Lee in the lead role. She displays a range of emotion from tears you can feel to the somber, dry expressions many show when they simply don't know how to express their feelings.
This film moves fast even though its pace is slow. The dialog shifting languages keeps your attention and creates the beautiful cultural connection needed to make this story of an immigrant and the man who stayed behind work. The way this story builds Greta's life in NY at the moment you believe they're finally going to connect... god this movie got me.
I was blown away by this movie. It's the most I've felt in a movie in a long time. Sadness, angst, loneliness, fear, human connection. Past Lives is what most slow paced dramas wish they could be.
The Bear
(2022– )
Season 2 has the BEEF
24 June 2023
Season one of The Bear is an anxious, grief-filled joy ride of intensity. Jeremy Allen White is a dynamic lead character as Carmy Berzatto, a Michelin star chef who left his restaurant role to try and save the family business in Chicago. Ayo Edebiri (Syd) & the remainder of this cast create a powerfully diverse ensemble in attitudes, generations and skill sets. In season one we watched Carmy and Syd save The Beef from likely failure, however we conclude with their desire to open an entirely new restaurant - The Bear. Season two kicks off hot on the ticking clock, 12 weeks to open The Bear remain and Uncle Jimmy, who continues to foot the bills, is tired of waiting.
Rather than dominating with kitchen scenes full of chaos as season one did, season two of The Bear embarks on a new ambitious journey - one built around delving into the lives of its incredible ensemble cast. Characters like Cousin (Richie), Tina & Marcus are given rewarding growth journeys provided by Carmy & Syd to learn to operate on their level. Carmy is given an authentic story of growth, made realer by his relapses in self-confidence and belief. Syd experiences her own journey of growth and seems to continue crumbling under her own expectations of herself, but Edebiri plays this role with such comedic timing and delivery, adding great one liners and injecting comedy alongside Fak and several others.
The cameos are delightful, powerful and build the credibility of every side character. These cameo characters are instrumental to the journeys of each of The Bear's staff. It's a wickedly stacked cast beyond the already impressive original ensemble.
I love this show so damn much. It feels like you're watching a manifestation of grief. You can feel the palpable tension in every episode. The anxiety is driven to a high level with purpose. The Bear engrosses you in a world of normal yet hurt people who aren't satisfied & continue to fight for their own growth.
Rather than dominating with kitchen scenes full of chaos as season one did, season two of The Bear embarks on a new ambitious journey - one built around delving into the lives of its incredible ensemble cast. Characters like Cousin (Richie), Tina & Marcus are given rewarding growth journeys provided by Carmy & Syd to learn to operate on their level. Carmy is given an authentic story of growth, made realer by his relapses in self-confidence and belief. Syd experiences her own journey of growth and seems to continue crumbling under her own expectations of herself, but Edebiri plays this role with such comedic timing and delivery, adding great one liners and injecting comedy alongside Fak and several others.
The cameos are delightful, powerful and build the credibility of every side character. These cameo characters are instrumental to the journeys of each of The Bear's staff. It's a wickedly stacked cast beyond the already impressive original ensemble.
I love this show so damn much. It feels like you're watching a manifestation of grief. You can feel the palpable tension in every episode. The anxiety is driven to a high level with purpose. The Bear engrosses you in a world of normal yet hurt people who aren't satisfied & continue to fight for their own growth.
Guy Ritchie's the Covenant
(I) (2023)
Not Your Average War Film
24 June 2023
Guy Richie has been a rather hit or miss filmmaker for me throughout his career. Some of his films shine while others falter. The Covenant definitely shines to me. Richie's direction of this film builds incredible suspense, creates a strong sense of place and puts you in the shoes of its subjects.
Jake Gyllenhaal is exceptional in this film. His exceptional acting sets the stage for everyone else to shine. Dar Salim is the beating heart of this movie though, even if you hardly hear that heartbeat until the conclusion. Salim is an excellent emotionally-barren counterpart to Gyllenhaal. Although you know what's at stake for him, he never shows it. This dim attitude keeps a level of suspense that does not require emotionally powerful performances, in fact heavy emotion would draw away from the intensity of the situations in this movie.
I thought this story was heartwarming, deep and displayed the level of care on the human level that governments rarely have the capacity to provide. When the film has the opportunity to slow down upon Gyllenhaal's return from Afghanistan, it doesn't. We speed through Gyllenhaal's arc in America planning his return to save Salim's character which really benefits the pace of the film but leaves details to be desired. The end of this movie provides a satisfying conclusion.
Jake Gyllenhaal is exceptional in this film. His exceptional acting sets the stage for everyone else to shine. Dar Salim is the beating heart of this movie though, even if you hardly hear that heartbeat until the conclusion. Salim is an excellent emotionally-barren counterpart to Gyllenhaal. Although you know what's at stake for him, he never shows it. This dim attitude keeps a level of suspense that does not require emotionally powerful performances, in fact heavy emotion would draw away from the intensity of the situations in this movie.
I thought this story was heartwarming, deep and displayed the level of care on the human level that governments rarely have the capacity to provide. When the film has the opportunity to slow down upon Gyllenhaal's return from Afghanistan, it doesn't. We speed through Gyllenhaal's arc in America planning his return to save Salim's character which really benefits the pace of the film but leaves details to be desired. The end of this movie provides a satisfying conclusion.
No Hard Feelings
(2023)
Certainly felt some feelings
24 June 2023
I laughed a lot through the first two acts of No Hard Feelings. Jennifer Lawrence is stunningly hot still. Her movie stardom is on full display with her commitment to being a hometown crazy girl. Lawrence is by far the highlight of this film but her counterpart Andrew Barth Feldman is also a delightful surprise. His anxious energy is palpable and a strong counter to Lawrence's acting chops, which is definitely not easy to do. I enjoyed the cinematography in this film a lot, fully displaying the beauty of Montauk and eastern Long Island. This isn't The Hangover, Step Brothers or Bridesmaids but it's certainly funny and heartfelt. It acts as a raunchy comedy in the trailers but the depth of these characters and story is real. The third act was more focused on wrapping up the story and missed many laughs. I can say it's worth watching this movie and you'll laugh. Jennifer Lawrence may just save theater releases comedies with this flawed but ultimately fun funny and watchable movie.
Beau Is Afraid
(2023)
A World That Drives Anxiety
20 June 2023
Beau Is Afraid is a really, really rough ride and tough watch. From the jump, this film soaks you in the anxiety-driven worldview of Beau Wasserman. You never know what has happened for real and what is a figment of Beau's anxious worldview. This mostly works, but Ari Aster gets carried away by Beau's paranoid worldview throughout the 2nd act of this 30-minutes-too-long film.
This film is shocking and jarring. The visuals frequently match the jarring tone of this film, leaving you with your draw dropping multiple times. You'll leave this movie with a palpable anxiety and a high degree of uncertainty about the film. It left me unsure if I'd ever watch it again.
Beau is definitely afraid, of everything going as poorly as it can possibly go at every turn. And in this movie it does, over and over, without feeling redundant. Aster consistently finds a way to one up his previously most scarring imagery. You feel like you are in someone's head from the opening moment till the end.
Speaking of the end, I wasn't thrilled with the final 30 minutes and conclusion of this film. I think Aster leaned out of most of what worked about this movie in the final 30/45 minutes in an attempt to say something powerful about the mother-son relationship on display. I don't think that landed nor was why I mostly enjoyed this bizarre, anxiety-inducing, psychedelic, visually stunning movie.
This film is shocking and jarring. The visuals frequently match the jarring tone of this film, leaving you with your draw dropping multiple times. You'll leave this movie with a palpable anxiety and a high degree of uncertainty about the film. It left me unsure if I'd ever watch it again.
Beau is definitely afraid, of everything going as poorly as it can possibly go at every turn. And in this movie it does, over and over, without feeling redundant. Aster consistently finds a way to one up his previously most scarring imagery. You feel like you are in someone's head from the opening moment till the end.
Speaking of the end, I wasn't thrilled with the final 30 minutes and conclusion of this film. I think Aster leaned out of most of what worked about this movie in the final 30/45 minutes in an attempt to say something powerful about the mother-son relationship on display. I don't think that landed nor was why I mostly enjoyed this bizarre, anxiety-inducing, psychedelic, visually stunning movie.
The Flash
(I) (2023)
Comparisons to other comic book movies
18 June 2023
Super hero movies, many of which I enjoy, have become unoriginal. The Flash dodges familiarity at times it would've benefited from it, and is familiar in the ways it does not benefit from. Aside from the media narratives about The Flash, I wouldn't be surprised if anyone who came out of this movie said they loved it or hated it.
There are a lot of problems with this movie and it's a lot of fun. Many people have critiqued Ezra Miller's lead performance but I wouldn't say that's even the biggest problem. The biggest problem with this movie is how bad it looks visually. Some of that HAD to be on purpose. Some of the action scenes really work and some really don't because of this issue. It's loud, it's ugly, it's some very bad editing & CGI.
The Flash has a fun plot that drove home a solid point on living with regret or such a desire for the life you could have had. Within 30 minutes of this starting, I realized it probably wasn't that good of a movie based on how it looked and how it pretended the Justice League was this group with momentum rather than a bunch of actors who we know aren't playing them again. The later cameos are lazy and uninspired. Most of this tries to draw on a nostalgia for DC movies that just really isn't there for me, so it didn't really work emotionally.
Some people will love this, some will hate it, it definitely makes a lot of INTERESTING choices. I think people should watch it though.
There are a lot of problems with this movie and it's a lot of fun. Many people have critiqued Ezra Miller's lead performance but I wouldn't say that's even the biggest problem. The biggest problem with this movie is how bad it looks visually. Some of that HAD to be on purpose. Some of the action scenes really work and some really don't because of this issue. It's loud, it's ugly, it's some very bad editing & CGI.
The Flash has a fun plot that drove home a solid point on living with regret or such a desire for the life you could have had. Within 30 minutes of this starting, I realized it probably wasn't that good of a movie based on how it looked and how it pretended the Justice League was this group with momentum rather than a bunch of actors who we know aren't playing them again. The later cameos are lazy and uninspired. Most of this tries to draw on a nostalgia for DC movies that just really isn't there for me, so it didn't really work emotionally.
Some people will love this, some will hate it, it definitely makes a lot of INTERESTING choices. I think people should watch it though.
Asteroid City
(2023)
Sci-fi Wes Anderson & The Always Charming Steve Carrell
18 June 2023
Although I found Astroid City to be enjoyable to watch & thought provoking, I did not find it half as funny as the rest of my theater. Wes Anderson's first truly sci-fi movie shines in a way many modern sci-fi movies fail, by not saying or explaining everything out loud. The movie's strengths lie in its questioning, a non-circular plot, and evaluation of grief.
This cast shines but the character development was especially uneven for what I come to expect with a Wes Anderson film. For a man who can make The French Dispatch, a collection of short stores, with such powerful individual characters, the supporting characters could've been done better.
I found Schwartzman & Johansson excellently paired with an awkwardly strong chemistry to match Anderson's often deadpan tone. Steve Carrell & Tom Hanks are given the best comedic roles and deliver the funniest lines of the film.
Anderson's ability to showcase childhood love is woven more subtly into this plot with a standout performance by Jake Ryan, who plays Woodrow, Schwartzman's character's son. The science experiment fair type thing was a fun plot device and not familiar for the sci-fi genre. The child acting in this movie is very strong.
This is not my #1 Wes Anderson movie but I had fun and enjoyed it.
This cast shines but the character development was especially uneven for what I come to expect with a Wes Anderson film. For a man who can make The French Dispatch, a collection of short stores, with such powerful individual characters, the supporting characters could've been done better.
I found Schwartzman & Johansson excellently paired with an awkwardly strong chemistry to match Anderson's often deadpan tone. Steve Carrell & Tom Hanks are given the best comedic roles and deliver the funniest lines of the film.
Anderson's ability to showcase childhood love is woven more subtly into this plot with a standout performance by Jake Ryan, who plays Woodrow, Schwartzman's character's son. The science experiment fair type thing was a fun plot device and not familiar for the sci-fi genre. The child acting in this movie is very strong.
This is not my #1 Wes Anderson movie but I had fun and enjoyed it.
Renfield
(2023)
Was I Suppose to Laugh This Much?
13 June 2023
I had so much fun watching Renfield. The campy comedic bordering satirical portrayal of Dracula is exactly what I didn't know I wanted to make monster movies feel fresh again. Nick Hoult, Awkwafina & Nick Cage carry a mediocre script that feels frantic and spastic to probably the best of its potential. The over the top gore and violence and intentionally corny visiuals make this feel like a mid 2000's spoof film in the best of ways with hints of 70's sci-fi design in the sets & action. Although I had a lot of fun watching this, it's not because it was that good. The script is mediocre. It doesn't have the care you'd expect for a $100mill budget movie with its action scenes, camera work or score. The acting is actually good, the plot is close to as original as you could ask for with a Dracula movie. It wasn't great but I sure as hell had fun and laughed a lot. Not sure how much I was supposed to laugh, not sure if that was the point. Either way, I recommend this movie especially with a group of people.
The Fabelmans
(2022)
Uniquely Spielberg
12 June 2023
Faster, more fun & more lively than it was sold to me, The Fabelmans takes an intimate look at family and individual passions. This film causes you to lean in, become a study of the subject and fall in love with the qualities in Sam Fabelman that we all grew up having. Desiring to make it more than a hobby is such a distinct feeling if you grew up loving & expressing yourself through the arts. The way families grow, change and show support to one another in their own ways is a powerful theme throughout The Fabelmans. All throughout this film, I am reminded of my love for Steven Spielberg and the way he has made movies better throughout his life and mine.
Somewhere in Queens
(2022)
Somewhere in Queens
9 June 2023
Warning: Spoilers
A stunningly good directorial debut for Ray Romano is driven from an excellent script. This story centers powerfully around themes of family. Romano's stellar performance as a middle aged man coming to terms with his life perfectly intersects with his 18 year old son's coming-of-age experiences of first love & discovering how own passions. Somewhere in Queens gets so much right about the different ways people express love and how that doesn't always work for our loved ones. The third act of this film delivers a comical yet dramatic feud that I enjoyed a lot. Concluding with Leo's son learning to express his anxiety effectively to his parents while discovering "something of his own" is well done. This movie also delivers a lot of Queens-specific references that are fun if you live in Queens so bonus points.
BlackBerry
(2023)
Glenn Howerton, Oscar winner?
8 June 2023
I exaggerate as he likely won't be nominated but Howerton's performance is so much fun & electric. Blackberry is a fun encapsulation of the rise and fall of Blackberry phones. I wasn't expecting to like this as much as I did. The pacing is FAST, one of the fastest moving "biopic" type movies I've seen, and that aids the film. It keeps you glued with a racing plot, jam packed with nuggets of detail that all pay off later. What I enjoyed most about this movie was Glenn Howerton's performance though. For the people who know him from Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia, this movie catapults a Dennis Reynolds type character into a tech & nerdy filled startup. He captures the feeling of cluelessness that seasoned business professionals would have in such an environment & the eccentric personality of someone like Jim Balsille perfectly.
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