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Reviews
A Haunting in Venice (2023)
Best of the three Poirot outings by Branagh
Let me preface this review by saying that I grew up on Agatha Christie books and therefore have a soft spot for them in my heart. I thought Orient Express was suitable... beautifully shot but Branagh's Poirot was aggressive and he didn't reached the conclusions from broad to detail as Poirot does. He was gimmicky and just knew to show his otherworldliness. The story however was quite close to the book. Good enough. Nile was style over substance. Beautiful to look at but that's it.
This one however really captured me. Do I think Branagh is a perfect 'horror' director? No. His direction does seem sometimes a bit clumsy and forced towards the horror elements even though this is still purely a detective story. What I liked is that even though the story is wildly different to the book's it feels like Poirot and it feels like the way he would solve a case. Therefore, even as a book reader you're sitting on the edge of your seat.
The solutions are there throughout the movie for hobby detectives and it makes perfect sence. Plus it has a nice message.
I'm finally really satisfied with a Branagh version of Poirot.
Final Space (2018)
Cancelled way ahead of its time
Let me preface this review by saying that I usually don't go for these adult animation over the top humor TV shows. Most of the times I do I enjoy them for a bit and then they become quite repetitive as they find their 'formula' for each of their episodes losing focus on an overall narrative.
This did not happen to Final Space. Season 1, even though it takes 3-4 episodes to really get going is one of the best seasons I've ever seen of any genre. It's smart, funny, sad and epic whenever it wants and needs to be. It has a clear purpose. The use of the countdown gives you a certain tension while also being very somber. The episodes don't feel like the adventure of the week kind of stories but rather the natural progression of the general narrative and also quite fresh storywise. Through the characters' interactions you bond with them. My former girlfriend for instance became obsessed with mooncake. And the music just amplifies everything to a thousand percent. I've watched this season of Final Space at least half a dozen times in its entirety and still laugh, cry or get pumped at the right parts.
Season 2 was for me a slight step down for two facts. As they had to, they introduced new characters and some were hit and some were miss. One Problem seemed to me that there were now too many goofy characters and no balance anymore as in season one KVN's and Gary's craziness had enough counterweight with Quinn, Avocato and HUE. Another thing was that it felt having lost its clear cut purpose and narrative and felt more like this week's adventure through the next Macguffin we need to find. However, this season was still thoroughly enjoyable as it is still funny, sad and has great stories but it just lacked that certain oomph in their emotionality.
Season 3 then, in my opinion, was a step back up again. Great story. Very emotional and heart wrenching. Exactly what you want from Final Space. And I definitely didn't cry at all at some episodes. They progressed the story fast and naturally. It was a blast. Even though season one is probably out of reach for anything else.
Overall, I love this show. With every episode you feel Olan's love for his characters and the story. You see a clear cut plan even though I think that the only weakness of the show was how much to trim and stretch the story in order to be serialized and put into seasons. Olan did give me however some of my favorite moments in TV History. So thank you. I will always cherish these.
Chookity Pok!
P. S. After I will purchase the Graphic Novel I hope someone will pick it up for a final season as it derserves to have one as so many people love this show.
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Great script, extraordinary acting, bit of a subpar directing
Let me preface this review by saying that I just watched the silence of the lambs for the very first time. I've known a few famous quotes like the ones with the Chianti and the very last one with the dinner but didn't know the exact ins and outs of the story.
I love a lot of things about this movie. The characters are very human and even though sometimes extreme in their behavior no caricatures. They're realistic through and through and without an agenda or messaging about them.
Clarice starling is a great protagonist. Since she's new to all of this we can sympathize easily with her as we experience all of this kind of things for the first time as well. She might lack experience but not the smarts. However, Hannibal Lecter as a character is mesmerizing. He's cunning and cold but very charming and even though it's the stupidest thing to do you start to root for him. Their portrayal by Foster and Hopkins deserve every accolade you give them.
Story wise, it's a straightforward detective thriller with some minor twists and turns. But the way it involves the viewer into its secrets letting them trying to piece things together is great, as well.
The only negative I've got is concerning the way some things have been directed. Some editing decisions made some scenes feel rushed or choppy. I didn't like some camera angles. All just very minor things that just weren't my taste and I've known from lesser 90s movies that I've grown up with.
All in all, a classic worth to be watched for at least the acting of two powerhouses. And have some fava beans and a Chianti while watching.
The Machine (2023)
Starts horrendous, gets better and better and ends on a high note
Let me preface this review by saying the Bert Kreischer's The Machine story is one of my all time favorite stand up stories. I can't count anymore how often I've watched it. Therefore, when seeing the Trailer I was hyped. Unfortunately, the movie didn't get a theatrical release in Europe. So I had to wait for it on digital. However, after reading the reviews it wasn't worth 18 bucks for me and I waited for Netflix. Let's get to the movie. I will keep it minimal on spoilers.
The beginning in the states is horrendous. Bert's and his fake family's acting is bad and the conflict between them is very forced and unnecessary to have some artificial unearned 'heart'. The jokes don't land at all.
When getting to Russia it gets progressively better and better. More and more jokes are landing and the finale is actually fun and earned. On a technical standpoint there's still few bad scenes with direction, acting and dialogue but the cinematography and the coloring are gorgeous.
The movie ends on a high note and is funny with some epicness sprinkled in, but it felt overall that there could've been more for it to enjoy it a little bit better.
Summing-up, fun little movie, but I'd probably rather watch the special again or the trailer instead of the movie.
The Little Mermaid (2023)
First 45 minutes a chore - then it gets really enjoyable
Let me preface this review by saying that as a kid I did like the little mermaid movie and also did watch the TV show occasionally. However, I couldn't be counted as a die hard fan at all. A few years ago I also picked up the original by Hans Christian Andersen but this new version is a 100% based on the Disney movie that itself was just very loosely based on the original. So the book won't come into play here.
Let's get to the movie. The first 45 minutes to almost an hour are a real chore to sit through. The songs are performed beautifully but feel unnatural and out of place since this world created is a more realistic and definitely a more brooding one. They seemed not to hit the note right when they appeared. However, there's a strong argument to make that Halle Baileys singing is indeed better than in the original. And then we get to the big problem of the first part of the movie. The acting. Sebastian's voice actor just never seemed to grasp a certain positivity and seemed just like an annoyed employer in an everyday job without actually caring for Ariel. Halle Bailey is ok, but there's just nuances missing. She does sometimes overact, or put facial expressions that don't really fit in situations, but she tries to convey that certain wonder and she's actually at her best when she's not allowed to speak and can focus solely on her expressions. Javier bardem in shockingly underwhelming. Seemed like he either phoned it in or couldn't get a real grip onto the character. McCarthy was a revelation as Ursula. She's even better I'd say than the original one. Great casting. Same goes for akwafina. Shes funny and fit her character well. The guy who played Eric was a bit hit and miss. Did sometimes overdo it with his delivery.
CGI is serviceable but not memorable. The Sets do look a little bit too much like sets unfortunately.
Now to the most important part. The Story. Since this is another of those Disney Remakes that are very divisive this did hit the nerves of some even more for the casting and changes in the story. Storywise I think they made changes that helped and some that hurt the movie's flow and enjoyment of it. The first 45 minutes were to establish the world, their characters and conflicts, but they weren't done cleverly and dragged because they either couldn't get to the point or hit it way too hard multiple times. As soon as the actual story begins with Ursula and being on the land the movie becomes very enjoyable. It's cute when it needs to be. Ariel and Eric have great chemistry and it's a fun and cute part of the movie. The changes here we're great and did enhance the story and their charcaters. The ending is serviceable. Some scenes felt rushed but after already sitting in for almost 2h that didn't need to be that long I guess it's not that bad. There's also a plothole but I won't spoil it now, but it did bother my experience.
The casting was another big controversy. I did kind of miss the iconic red hair but I didn't think the story required Ariel to be of certain ethnicity. It actually looked cool as soon as you saw her sisters and got the inworld subtle explanation as to why it is the way it is. The casting choices however did bother me with the human people. And the reason herefore is that it actually plays in our world and not some fairytale world as they're discussing Venezuela and multiple other real world countries. Having it set in real history with the casting choices they made I was just taken out of the movie because of confusion and trying to make sense of it. However, after five minutes you just ignore it, but I'd still prefer more consistency with the world that the movie is set in.
All in all, an enjoyable little flick that is better than many other Disney Remakes but still not one that I will ever pick up again to watch since it doesn't have the charm of the first one even though that one had more logical and story issues.
One Piece (2023)
Better than feared with still some room for improvement
Let me preface this review by stating that I've been following the Anime and Manga on and off for over 20 years and I love the world created and always hoped for a live action remake since I've always thought that the original has pacing issues. However, the East Blue Arc I always liked for it's tight pacing.
Now getting to this version. There's some small changes story wise but nothing that would change the narrative of it in a significant way. There's some added artificial tension between the characters here and there which seemed a little bit annoying but overall it's alright. The story in general is however a proven commodity.
The script is well done with some good dialogues in it. The set design is great. You can see the love for the world. The fight choreography is really good when it's two people actually fighting in real life without CGI. There's room to grow however when Luffy is fighting.
The main cast is simply amazing and they deliver it. Especially the guy depicting Zoro seems perfect. The demeanor and his delivery is on point and his fights are the best because it seems most realistic when he's doing it.
While the main cast's acting is great some of the minor characters' is bad. Instantly remembering the three Black Cat Pirates, Alvida or Nami's sister.
And then there's the costumes. Since this is a fictional world I have no problem with modern style clothing since the original story makes an effort to purposely be ambiguous about the time setting and it's technology/ society, but here the problem is that the costumes look very cheap like plastic and more importantly like clothes from mass production which completely contradicts the world. The costumes looked like those 1$ shop clothes which is really taking you out of the show's story.
The music is ok, but it's a wee bit too similar to the Witcher which isn't that surprising since it's by the same composers.
Overall a very competent first season that needs a little improvement in some areas. I very much do look forward to a second season.
Sharper (2023)
So close but ultimately couldn't stick the land
Let me preface this review by stating that I'm a sucker for con movies with great twists. However, it is not easy to make such a movie since the enjoyment ultimately comes down to its finale and wether it's satisfactory. The grand final twist needs to be earned and believable while also unexpected.
Getting to this movie now, I really enjoyed the structure of it. The multiple POV angles style giving you more and more bread crumbs during it's runtime has been used a few times before. Sometimes more and sometimes less successfully.
The chapter structure here was great. From an intimate two person storyline it gets bigger by each added chapter with people and motives.
I was thinking at around 20 minutes before the ending that they'd only need to stick the landing and it could become one of my favorites in this Genre.
Unfortunately for me, it couldn't. Without saying anything spoilery, it just felt forced and out of place. The characters felt unlike themselves and behaved stupider and in general just different than they did before.
It's a shame, because I really enjoyed it up to that point. Overall, it's still a very nice thriller, with great direction, cinematography and acting. It's just not something special even though it could've been. Worth a watch once however.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
Great conclusion to the trilogy with an awful villain
Let me preface this review by stating that I'm neither a huge GotG nor Marvel fan. I enjoyed the first two instalments for what they were to me. Lighthearted little fun movies that delved into more emotions the further they progressed.
Coming to this third one in the series I wasn't expecting anything at all since I haven't seen a trailer for it. It's a more personal story and I really liked that. The characters are the main focus and the story serves only as a mean for that. Exploiting the raccoon joke as something meaningful was another thing that I loved when talking about the basis of this movie. I liked the recurrence of the Golden High Priestess. She was fun in the last one and also here. Especially Will Poulter's Mama's boy was hilarious. I actually would've wished for more because their story seemed a bit rushed and underdeveloped.
The acting in general was great. The soundtrack as always was phenomenal and the direction and cinematography were at times astonishing. The one-shot fight scene was unbelievably fun to watch and the color palette was beautiful to look at at all times.
Let's now delve into the things I didn't like. The story itself is for a 2 1/2h quite bland. At times it drags a little bit. Then there's some artificial tension that gets a little bit annoying the more often it occurs meaning all the near deaths and wounds of the guardians. They get shot for instance in one moment, the music becomes dramatic, slow motion, they're bleeding and look very hurt and then 2 minutes later they act like nothing happened. Similar things just happened too often so that it became annoying since none of them actually do die.
Now let's get to the two main points that made me evaluate this movie the way I did. One positive and one negative. I loved the ending. Every character had a somewhat satisfying conclusion to their story. Not necessarily what fans would've wanted but on a literary standpoint great. They're a family that grew together and now keep growing either by themselves or in the group depending on what's fitting. Gamora finally has a father figure that treats her well. Rocket is the leader of the 'freaking' Guardians of the Galaxy and Peter does some well needed growing up on earth with his Grandpa. A really fitting ending. I might've had some tears running down my cheeks once or twice during the movie.
Now to the worst part of the movie. The main villain as in the High Evolutionary. I don't dislike the character but his portrayal by Iwuji. I don't know who to blame here. The actor or Gunn but it was painful to watch. Every second he was either constantly yelling like a little child or it just seemed off in general. It wasn't one of those cases that you hate the villain for their actions or the perfect portrayal. It was however a chore to sit through each of his scenes.
Overall, it's a fitting ending and I generally liked this movie but it had some flaws.
Be Cool (2005)
Very underrated parody of LA
Let me preface this review by saying that I've watched this movie as a teenager when it originally came out and I loved it but have since only heard people badmouthing it. So I decided to give it another try.
Let me tell you that this movie is nothing like the original. So that's important in case you expect watching a real sequel. However, this movie is hilarious. All the characters are over the top cardboard clichés on purpose. It's messy and the story is not believable, but also very much on purpose as it makes fun of the Hollywood and LA experience. And I believe it was a smart move to tackle the idiocies of the music industry for the sequel instead of sticking with the movies. I was constantly laughing.
On a personal note for me, why I loved it as a teen is the music that I adored just as the movie's character Sin LaSalle said it in the movie.
Summing it up it's a fun ride while you shouldn't take it too seriously.
Mortal Kombat (1995)
For all its flaws it is still hell of a fun watch
Let me preface this review by saying that I first watched this movie when it came out on VHS. I've played the game this was based on maybe two or three times before watching this. So, I only had a general knowledge of the source material. I've recently rewatched it and still love it.
Let's start with the bad things first. The CGI was even for back then not good. Character motivations are there, but are seriously questionable and a stretch. A few fights are not performed too well. Especially one from the beginning with a few extras comes to mind. The story itself isn't a complex one if you're looking for that and some of the acting is subpar.
Now you might ask, how after all this criticism is this still an enjoyable movie. It's simply put a lot of fun. The Soundtrack will pump you up and you'll remember it for decades. The main characters are funny and memorable. Their banter with each other is hilarious. And that's perfect for the story itself. It is in theory a serious movie, but its characters don't take it too serious which then affects the audience so that they don't think the filmmakers thought of this as something Shakespearean but a fun ride even if sometimes cheesy. Some fights are great and really creative. Acting wise I just loved the performances of Christopher Lambert and Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa. You can feel that they're having fun with their characters and especially Tagawa lived this so much and was adored by fans that he's still Shang Tsung 30 years later.
In General, A fight tournament between humans and monsters is a simple but effective story. The callbacks to the games are also a nice touch even though they departed from some things. Directionwise it's well made as well, as is the cinematography and the Sets.
All in all, it's very much a guilty pleasure and you should go into this movie only wanting to have simple fun. If you can do that and enjoy a fighting tournament-like story, go for it.
7 donne e un mistero (2021)
Great Acting, astonishing cinematography & Surprisingly bad script
Let me preface this review by saying that I've never seen the original play this is based on and that I've watched it in the original Italian version with no dubbing. However, I needed some Italian subtitles.
First of all, the acting is great. There's some outstanding performances by the women that play the maid and the older daughter but no one in this movie missed the mark. The best thing about this film however is the cinematography. The color palette and the camera movement is beautiful. And these two things are actually what's saving this movie from being laughably bad. The characters, their behavior and even their dialogue seem farfetched and are often ridiculous caricatures. Storywise there's also the problem of how to reveal the secrets and the only solution for this is always a character who by chance knows about it of another character but for some reason waited in telling it. This happens multiple times.
So, this is supposed to be a Satire. And therefore, I get that people are supposed to be exaggerations, but if they're neither connecting with the audience nor make them laugh, then it's a failure.
To sum it up. It's not an atrocious movie by all means, but for a whodunnit satire you need a smart script and this ain't it. It's worth however a peak if you're interested in its cinematography or great acting.
Old (2021)
Interesting concept, good direction, bad dialogue and some awful acting
Let me preface this review by stating that I'm not a huge M. Night fan. I loved the sixth sense and unbreakable and appreciated split and the happening. Apart from that I mostly think that his movies are quite hollow. However, I tremendously respect him for always bringing interesting and new concepts with most movies even that he himselfs writes even though this one is based on a graphic novel.
Coming to this movie. The premise is great and M. Night definitely knows how to direct and his cinematographer did an exceptional job.
Now getting to the negatives. The dialogue is sometimes excruciatingly odd and very off for the characters. A big problem is that M. Night doesn't really explore his characters or at least doesn't show them to us. They say things and we don't know why they would do such things and others wouldnt.
Some of the cast is horribly miscast. Especially the mother. Her wooden acting is painful. I've seen enough German TV productions to see a pattern and this is right on par with them. I kind of appreciated the ending because it tied a lot together but it also felt rushed.
All in all. Great concept as usual but with the same flaws as often the case his movies. I'd suggest to find someone to punch up his dialogue and get a new casting director, since there were a few people miscast here.
Shingeki no Kyojin (2013)
Peak Nihilism
Let me preface this review by stating that I will be reviewing mostly the anime but since the manga also has come to an end and its story will be the same due to the anime being very faithful those things will of course come into account.
First of all, the pilot was phenomenal putting us into this world and suffering through this tragedy as did our three Protagonists. The music was excellent. In my point of view, sheer perfection. Apart from a few hiccups the entirety of the first season was great.
The second season, although quite short, expanded on everything in a nice manner and the twists and turns were unexpected but still within the realm of believable.
The third season was a bit of a downgrade for me but only very slightly. The story was a nice progression. There were some nice twists and the action as usually was great. One thing that by now has gotten an AOT staple is that new characters are being introduced only to serve as emotional cannon fodder which is however necessary when you have this high amount of a body count. I liked Zeke's humor as the villain and was bummed that Rainer's insanity wasn't explored further. It seemed after the reveal that throughout the whole series the insanity only popped up when it was convenient but forgotten otherwise.
Let's get to the fourth season and the one I have the biggest issues with. First, let me tell you that some of my personal favorite movies and shows don't end in happy endings and seeing the journey from good to evil or rather seeing a person who's done more morally questionable things are very enticing and some great character arcs could've been done here.
However, it does seem to me that here the case is rather that instead of having a natural progression of the characters, hiyasama came up with an idea at a later stage of writing and wanted to shoehorn it into this story.
If you want Eren to become this flawed antagonist show it gradually instead giving this questionable series of flashbacks within one episode that was well done in season 4 admittedly but still too short and rushed. The biggest problem here is as a viewer or reader you cheered for a character and were on his side but within a matter of one episode even though there was a four year time skip the character is completely different with never giving a natural progression or just showing it better that he remembered things when apparently for the first time in his life he touched Historia. Then, there's just a bit too many twists and turns from the characters themselves. I don't mean spectacular twists like the one revealing Eren was able to see some of his own future. It's the turns of characters that are changing their morals or forget what happened in order to work with others. Zeke's ambitions don't really seem to line up at all with his previous behavior and there's a difference between having a cover and enjoying wholeheartedly the killing of hundreds of people.
When Season 4 started I loved when they showed the other side of the sea, because in a war there's no good or bad guys. It's either propaganda or sheer will of survival and both have been showcased here with a heavy emphasis on the propaganda part itself. I loved the inclusion of the Jäger fanatics and them taking over the country basically as a militia showing that if you're not careful bad things happen after a victory. But the good things aren't explored to a satisfactory level.
They're just there to say that things are always bad no matter which side you're fighting for, because best case scenario there's either racism, civil war or just another real war coming.
And now coming to the ending. It's not a bad idea to start with Ymir's curse because she loved a monster for whom she had to do his bidding and who didn't love her back. The conclusion here is to cut off that person because love isn't being given back. OK. But also the same goes for Mikasa and Eren? Eren loves her and she loves him. Up until he got the father's memories he was an ill tempered but good hearted boy. Not evil at all, but the conclusion is the same.
They want to stop Eren before he kills everyone. He still kills 80% which really isn't a success before being killed. The main reason for stopping him. To stop the endless killing. Too bad it doesn't work out because at the end Shiganshina is burning again through some newly ignited war years later because this his humanity's nature. The only redeeming thing here is that there's no Titans anymore. The story tried to go the bittersweet route. However, the love reasoning is nonsense and by the start of the fourth season the Titans start to become obsolete since technology was advancing that fast making it basically a disease that infects 9 newborns and kills them after 13 years.
I'm still in disbelief of this ending. I didn't need a happy go lucky ending and if it's a bad ending be it. Humanity is quite flawed and more stories need to reflect that, but it has to be earned through story and themes. And something should be said with a story, but I honestly don't know what? You are responsible for your ancestors' sins and you need to pay for it? I don't know. This was an extraordinary show which really couldn't stick the landing. It's especially frustrating because you see some things have been thought out quite early and the world building is indeed nice.
The Last of Us: Long, Long Time (2023)
Extraordinary depiction of real love
Let me preface this week once again that I'm a huge fan of the game this is based on and that I loved some additions (i.e. Sara's POV during the outbreak) and disliked some of the changes (Robert's betrayal and Marlene's relationship with Ellie, Tess' character), because I didn't see any reasons for it apart from saving time.
Coming to this Episode, they drastically changed Bill and Frank's story. Instead of a one-sided relationship where only Bill loves Frank while Frank hates Bill, you get a wholesome and heartbreaking story about realisitc love. It starts out with some kind of dependency and evolves into real love and a life together in a world like this.
I loved how they changed this story and there were a lot of risks here. They could've easily make this pandering and cheesy but they refrained from it. Instead they showed some kind of optimism and happiness with real love in a grim world, which they will further elaborate on very soon i assume. I loved every second of this Episode.
Hats off and after not being too impressed with the last episode I am once again all on board. Astonishing.
Along Came Polly (2004)
Without Seymour Hoffman this would've been atrocious
This movie is one of those where the humor lives from crudeness, shock value and and just very cheap toilet jokes, sometimes literally. The story itself is a solid run by the numbers romantic comedy that you've seen a hundred times before and will see a hundred more times in the future if you allow it.
Jennifer Aniston is very solid brings her character across nicely. I'm not a huge fan of Ben Stiller's performance here. But then again. Not much is asked from someone in a movie like this.
However, as it is usually the case in movie like these you need a best friend side character for comic relief and in this case it's Philip Seymour Hoffman. He unquestionably steals the show in every scene and often makes them funny through sheer acting and not because of the content. He himself made the ending of this film so much more enjoyable that you actually think after watching it that it wasn't too bad. However, it still is very unimaginative but Hoffman does somehow save this movie from being atrocious.
That '90s Show (2023)
One good Episode doesn't redeem this mess of a first season
Let me preface this review by saying that I loved that 70's show and that I grew up in the 90's; however not in the US.
The biggest problem of this show is their characters. They're either one dimensional, dull or just plain unlikable. In the original show everybody had their flaws but ultimately they were good hearted people that genuinely liked each other. And on top of it. They were funny. And that's apparent every time you see one of the original Gang members here, especially Fez.
I barely had any laugh out loud moments unless one of the originals were in it.
This show unfortunately for me at least aims at the wrong demographic. They barely use real 90's culture for easy nostalgia points but just some often ridiculed obvious things from the 90's which rather seemed like someone born too late was googling things from the 90's instead of living through them while writing the scripts.
In the end the funniest and best Episode came at the end. The story wasn't forced anymore and the characters had a real connection. However, one good Episode doesn't redeem this show from all the other episodes that came before which were unfunny and annoying.
Not sure if Netflix will pick up a second season but if they do they need to do a lot of adjustments.
The Last of Us: When You're Lost in the Darkness (2023)
In passages phenomenal, in others a bit clunky
Let me preface this review by telling you that the game this series is based on is one of my favorite games of all time. So I was looking forward to this with great anticipation.
There's some changes to the original which I wouldn't mind as long as they enhance the story.
Let's start with the introduction scene from the 60's. You needed some kind of explanation in the show, because you needed the science explained which is very believable in theory was seemed a bit forced here. However, still very serviceable and it wasn't too long anyway.
Now to the part from 2003. I thought they've made an extraordinary part of the game even better. Following Sara through the day makes the scene at the end of this era hit even harder.
Now let's come to the last part of this episode. The modern era. Some story decisions seem quite clunky and the acting by some didn't help at all. The actress playing Tess switched from an overly hard ass to someone easily scared and on the brink of crying in a way that seemed very unbelievable. Ellie's actress was more often miss than hit, but considering that she's a child actress I don't fault her for it. Pedro Pascal as Joel had some acting decisions i disagree with but that's just a personal opinion and I can see why he did it the way he did.
Storywise, they changed up the story in a way that made it actually more unbelievable than what was kind of a natural progression in the game. Once again, it felt forced here in order to get along faster with this part of the story to focus on others later I would assume.
On a technical standpoint, cinematography is top notch and the direction really good. The acting was a letdown for me in a few instances.
Overall, this is however a very competent and great pilot episode and the 2003 part was phenomenal. Let's see what will happen in the next few weeks.
Becoming the G.O.A.T.: The Tom Brady Story (2021)
An English language German documentary about tom Brady's acquaintances
First thing that I've learned from this documentary. If you don't have the budget to do an acceptable job don't tell the story. Except for Charlie Weis there's nobody of any importance in this documentary. Thebmovie doesn't have the rights for any game footage. The movie doesn't tell a coherent story. It's just interview snippets of oddly many German guys that barely or not at all know Brady sprinkled pictures, bad animation and rumors.
For any football fan outside Germany. Avoid this mess. For a football fan from Germany, you too unless you wanna hear the difference between a German and american accent.
Naruto: Shippûden: The Tale of Jiraiya the Gallant (2009)
This was peak Naruto
Let me preface this short review by saying that I loved Naruto and Shippuden up to this point. Some character evolutions and motivations were great and three dimensional. Not just black and white, good or evil. This is true about Jiraiya, as well. His story's conclusion is heartbreaking but very fitting to his ark. You see the real threat of Pain in this episode and him eventually killing Jiraiya. Especially his inner monologue and his last memories emphasize what he valued in life and what he believed his legacy was.
Extraordinary. Unfortunately, after this episode Shippuden would slowly and gradually decline in my opinion, but that's not important for this episode.
Perfect end to my second favorite character of the show.
Gunpowder Milkshake (2021)
Enjoyable with some minor hiccups
This movie has some very strong aspects. However, there are some things that could've been improved upon.
Let's start with the pros.
The soundtrack is amazing and gives that certain oomph to every scene, be it an original song or just one taken from someone.
The cinematography is a strong suit as well with the direction mostly quite enjoyable, but the color palette stands out here especially.
The story in itself is simple but effective enough. The first hour when the story focuses on character and world building is for me the most enjoyable part. Some rules reminded me of the continental of the John Wick World. The story starts to suffer in the second half with the further inclusion of the librarians. Without spoiling too much the movie shifts and I felt at least wanting the movie to return to the style of the first half.
Actingwise it's unfortunately a two sided coin. Karen Gillan, Carla Gugino and as always Paul Giamatti are great. Lena heady and Michelle Yeoh were serviceable but Angela Basset seemed either very miscast or heavily misdirected. Some minor villain characters just seemed a bit too over the top.
Some missed opportunities here include the lack of focus on the main villain. He just doesn't get enough screen time before in order for the finale to hit.
Then there's some questionable character interactions which are I guess more in it to serve a point rather than being believable and logical consequences. This culminates in the movie being just shy of being extraordinary instead of just an enjoyable ride which will be forgotten. It doesn't get into the second layer of the characters and when it tries to it sometimes fails because it doesn't make sense or is rushed which seems impossible considering the 2h runtime.
On a small negative note. The fight scenes sometimes just looked too much like choreographed movie fight scenes. Don't know yet who to blame, the director or the choreographer.
Usually, I'm a sucker for stylish hitman movies and after the first hour I was already so invested that I thought that this movie would become my favorite of the year. Unfortunately, a weaker second half and a Finale which in my mind at least was very underwhelming took it down a notch.
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (2022)
What a blast
Let me preface this review by stating that I grew up on the Sega Master System II Versions of the Sonic Games and later played the more well known ones, as well. I was mildly entertained by the first movie. It was an OK movie with some bad dialogue and acting at some point but Jim Carrey saved that one from being bad.
This one however I had a blast with. The dialogue has been improved upon. The message is clear to kids but not pandering. There's still some very cliché scenes but let's not forget who the target audience here is. The two things that stood out however for me were the emotional aspects of the story and the connecting pieces to the game. The story itself is very solid as well since it is a natural progression from the first movie. Don't expect however a Shakespearean endeavor. This movie was made with thought, though. Especially with the smart inclusion of some bits and pieces of the games you start to reminisce.
Jim Carrey as always is hilarious and just gives for some of the potentially bad goofy scenes that certain oomph with which it just becomes hilarious. The ending was nice and a perfect set up for a third and probably last part of a trilogy in case the studio is able to convince Jim Carrey to reprise his role one last time.
Overall I recommend this movie to all fans of the Sonic Games and kids being introduced to the Franchise.
Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022)
What an unfortunate mess
Let me preface this review by stating that I watched the original trilogy as a kid and only really love a New Hope and then watched the prequels in the theaters as a teen and found them mildly entertaining, especially episode III. I disliked the sequels but those aren't relevant here.
I was however really looking forward to this show since McGregor's Kenobi was one of the best things from the Prequels. Unfortunately, this TV show is a mess and neither serves his character nor the actor apart from an assuredly large paycheck. Some minor spoilers incoming which were I think all in the trailers.
Sometimes I feel like that Hollywood's writing skills have largely diminished since there's been many decisions I just can't get my head around.
Leia's character is mostly annoying. In my opinion occasionly even a little brat which doesn't align with the latter Leia. The force has been of course changed in order to have some nonsensical but once however phenomenally looking fight scenes. The whole story in general is in my opinion misplaced. They should've avoided using Luke and Leia and focus on Obi-Wan. Especially, since it's against canon that Leia knows him. The villain is awful. Sometimes laughably overacted and then ridiculously used in the end that just doesn't align with her actions from before.
Darth Vader has some head scratching things to say. Especially one thing which he himself negates two episodes later.
Without spoiling too much. This TV show is in itself incoherent and considering the Prequels and Original Trilogy with them as well. It's not well written because for instance it doesn't provide you a new story just something to fill in some very minor gaps of those nearly two decades in between the two trilogies. Some acting is bad. Even McGregor is disappointing at times. The highlight was probably a flashback that was shown towards the end.
I'm very disappointed. Do not recommend it to anyone in general. However, I am quite aware that these kind of franchises with built in history tent to aggravate some more than others.
Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (2022)
Keeps getting more and more frustrating with each movie
Let me preface this review by saying that I've read the Harry Potter books multiple times and love them, disliked most of the Harry Potter movies quite a bit because of their inaccuracies and incoherences. I really enjoyed the first fantastic beasts movie and was underwhelmed with the second one because it went nowhere and its contradictions with the world built by Rowling herself. After seeing the Trailers I already was discouraged a bit but watched it nevertheless in high hopes.
It seems though J. K. Rowling doesn't remember the rules and story of the world she herself created. You don't take away memories completely by pulling those memories. You still can remember them. Aberforth is Albus' younger brother. Albus was 17 when meeting Grindelwald. So he got a girl pregnant at mostly 16? Just by everything that has happened chronologically after it just feels like a cop out in order to save the last movies blunder with credence being a Dumbledore. Then of course which was in the trailers: Dumbledore knowing of the room of requirements. Rowling herself made in the last HP book a big fuzz about why Dumbledore didn't know of the room. Then there's minor things I can get by, but in general it just feels like she doesn't know her own story anymore. And out of curiosity. Since when is there an international government? This can be sorted out however.
The movie itself is alright. Has its fun and cute moments with the animals and the Kowalski character actually is the heart of the movie. Was hoping the Chillin would bow to him. However, the character and the actor enhance this movie by a mile. The climax was a bit forced though.
Overall however, I'd suggest that Rowling reads her own material again and then she'd get at least the original book fans on board for the next installment.
Hercules (1997)
Looked at it in a vacuum it's great
Let me preface this review by saying that I adored this movie as a kid and apart from the Iliad didn't know anything about Greek mythology back then.
This movie has a lot of heart and even though it reuses a lot of the typical Disney tropes it deviates enough to deliver something fresh and time appropriate. There's criticism of star worshipping compared to Jordan. The characters are three dimensional and not just your typical story board cut outs.
Coming to the details of this film. Danny DeVito is great but James Woods steals the show. His portrayal of Hades is phenomenal.
The movie is very funny and gives a nice modern 90's spin to this Greek tragedy. The music is extraordinary. The muses were one of my favorite parts. Apart from I can go the distance I loved every song. The dynamic between Hercules and Meg feels natural and is very funny.
Now to the part why this movie ranks so high for me in a subjective manner. I think I've been in love with Meg since I was 6 years old. She's funny, has a backstory and very believable motives and some human flaws. She ends up actually having a better character arc than Hercules himself.
On a negative note the story of this movie only takes parts of the original tragedy and makes an own story out of it. If this rubs you the wrong way avoid this movie since taking liberties with the story would be quite an understatement.
Overall a great movie and definitely and one that I hold very dearly. Compared to the original tragedy it's very different but looked at it in a vacuum it's great.
The Matrix Resurrections (2021)
Great Concept, mediocre execution
Let me preface this review by stating that the original Matrix might be my favorite movie of all time and that Reloaded is a highly underrated gem that has gotten undeserved hate. The third one was subpar because it lacked a certain kind of depth of world building and instigating second guessing your world view in an entertaining way. It served basically only its main purpose of finishing the trilogy.
Now getting to this iteration. First of all, the trailers do a great job misleading the people of what to expect from the movie. After ten minutes it is already a movie different to what I thought the Trailers have suggested. You start questioning the movie's reality and the first hour is highly enjoyable. It serves a great new angle of what's come in the previous films.
However, the first major issue here is that its messages it wants to convey are too much on the nose. Instead of subtly giving the audience hints of why something is bad the characters literally spell it out to you. If this would've happened once or twice it wouldn't have bothered me as much since many movie's don't trust their audiences, but here it happens quite often. Smart concept ideas are there but they're not included in a smart way. Nonetheless, there are some nicely put callbacks unfortunately mixed with some badly put ones, as well.
Another issue I think Resurrections has is that some character behavior doesn't make much sense. To not go into detail or spoiler range but a program behaved in a way it didn't add up to what has been told to us and shown how programs behave. But that's just one instance of a few ones.
The action scenes are alright, but unfortunately nothing extraordinary. There's even a new element which actually takes away a lot of the fun that was previously there.
Then there's the climax and my biggest problem with it is its justification and how much it somehow misses urgency. The tension is artificial and you don't see a bigger picture for it as in the original trilogy for each of their climaxes.
Summing this up, Lana Wachowski started this with some great concept ideas but it seems like she either believes that she's smarter than her audience and dumbed it down or got lazy and didn't put enough effort into this movie. However, it's alright to watch it once and the first hour was indeed enjoyable, but I probably won't come back for a full rewatch soon.