andypaps101 Reviews

Barbie (I) (2023)

"Barbie" - A Multifaceted Exploration of Femininity, Consumerism, and Existentialism

[8/10 · 19 July 2023]

I got free tickets for a preview and to be honest I was more than a little embarrassed to go. I did not tell a soul. As a cool middle aged gentleman if word got out this could have really affected my street cred.

Anyway, I embraced the journey and I'm glad that I did. Here is my review written as a pretentious critic that I aspire to be in my next life:

In Greta Gerwig's latest directorial venture, "Barbie," the esteemed filmmaker takes on the monumental task of unravelling the enigma that is Barbie, the iconic doll that has fascinated and polarized society for decades.

With Margot Robbie as the eponymous character and Ryan Gosling as Ken, Gerwig's live-action rendition delves into the complex world of Barbie, attempting to extract deeper meaning from this cultural phenomenon.

Gerwig masterfully navigates the treacherous waters of branded material, infusing the narrative with a blend of adventure, comedy, fantasy, and romance. The result is a thought-provoking exploration of Barbie's role as a feminist symbol, challenging societal perceptions of femininity and girlhood.

Can a doll with impossibly perfect features and a smile of perpetual happiness truly embody feminist ideals?

Gerwig compels the audience to contemplate this question, weaving it throughout the fabric of the film.

In reality Margot Robbie dominated the film as expected and has developed into a true cinematic icon. The flm was fun and far above my expectations hence I'm giving it an 8 and boasting I watched Barbie.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)

Get Ready to Laugh, Cry, and Save the Universe

[9/10 · 4 May 2023]

I saw this on May 3rd at the Odeon Luxe Leicester and I can confidently say that Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is a fitting conclusion to the beloved franchise. James Gunn's direction once again shines, bringing his signature fun and energetic style to the screen. The visuals are stunning, with vivid and spectacular visual effects that bring the film's alien worlds and creatures to life.

But what truly sets Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 apart is its emotional depth. The film explores the characters' relationships and their painful pasts, resulting in a story that is both vibrant and strange, yet also painfully personal. The characters are all given their moments to shine, from Chris Pratt's charismatic Star-Lord to Karen Gillan's complex Nebula, as well as Bradley Cooper's Baby Rocket, who adds a subtle yet powerful emotional layer to the story.

While the film may have its moments of exaggerated sentimentalism, it never becomes too soft centred, maintaining a sense of humour and light heartedness throughout. It's a gorgeous spectacle that is sure to please fans of the franchise, while also providing a satisfying conclusion for these beloved characters.

In the end, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 may be an uneven film at times, but it remains touching and endearing, with a fascinating study of its characters. Overall, it's a fitting and satisfying conclusion to one of Marvel's most beloved franchises.

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

"Top Gun: A Perfect 10/10 Must-See for Fans of the Original and Newcomers Alike!"

[10/10 · 13 February 2023]

Top Gun is an absolute must-see for fans of the original and for those who have never seen it before. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, Top Gun honors the original while delivering an exciting and thrilling action-packed story with a compelling and emotional story. Tom Cruise proves once again why he is the most popular movie star alive today, and Miles Teller and Jennifer Connelly are perfectly cast in the lead roles. The stunts, visuals, V/SFX, and camera work are breathtaking and make you feel like you're in the cockpit of a jet. The soundtrack and score add to the intensity of the action and the 131 minute runtime flies by. The dogfights are real and not CGI, making the film even more impressive. This is a perfect 10/10 must-see for all fans of the original and for those who have never seen it before. It's an absolute must-watch that will leave you amazed and entertained.

Nope (2022)

Misses the mark by a wide degree

[23 October 2022]

Another hack job by Peele. 'Nope' is a study in lazy writing, abysmal character development and an incoherent plot. It loosely follows the 'Jaws' (1975) plot line. The saving grace is the wonderful cinematography by Hoyte van Hoytema -'Let the Right One In' ('Låt den rätte komma in') 2008, Interstellar (2014), Spectre (2015), Dinkirk (2017). If a director/writer (other than black) had presented such an 'Uncle Tom' & 'gansta' personality (Keke Palmer) they would have been 'cancelled' by now. The glowing reviews in the industry rags are from fellow insiders hyping it to promote sales. Daniel Kaluuya, regrettably, sleep walks through this; what a waste of his talent.

Squid Game (2021– )

Beyond doubt It will be a cult classic.

[9/10 · 25 October 2021]

What a great show. Pure escapism. Time really flew when I watched an episode.

Of course there were some flaws, both plot holes and character inconsistencies but some of the scenes were right up there with some of the best strorytelling and script writing seen in recent years.

The merchandise buying generated by this show will be crazy - already bought my 456 tracksuit for 5 a side football.

Season 2 is a certainty and already it can't come quick enough.

No Time to Die (2021)

Familiarity does not breed contempt

[8/10 · 29 September 2021]

As a Bond fanatic (my specialist subject was Bond films when I appeared on Mastermind - episode 7 2016) I was lucky enough to get invited to the Royal Albert Hall for the World Premiere last night (28th September).

It was great to see the actors Daniel Craig (Bond), Rami Malek (Lyutsifer Safin) , Lashana Lynch (Nomi) as well as one of the four credited script writers Phoebe Waller Bridge (Fleabag) on the red carpet.

To be clear my review is not influenced by last night's occasion and I'll start by stating that I rank this Bond film fifth out of the twenty-seven Bond films made; in between Casino Royale (2006) and Skyfall (2012). As an aside my favourites are the 1960's classics with Goldfinger unsurpassed.

Despite the films spanning six decades and being created by different filmmakers with various actors, Bond films still retain recurring elements that make them "Bond-esque". Bond is not much different from any other successful franchise. It works on the formula of giving the audience from the very start a sense of familiarity and No Time to Die delivers starting with Billy Eilish's theme song.

This was Daniel Craig's fifth and concluding turn in a highly successful 15-year run. Though not my favourite Bond (who else but Sean Connery) Daniel Craig can take a lot of credit for humanising the role by giving him more complexity and dragging him firmly into a new century.

For those familiar with the co-writer Phoebe Waller-Bridge one may feel that she had an out-sized input into the film as her excellent knack for the comedic and heartfelt (Fleabag) as well as action and adventure (Killing Eve) seemed to be stamped on this production.

The film is more than a worthy contribution to the Bond franchise and hence should eventually fulfil the marker as an index of time to where we were at with our lives, just like Goldfinger did for me in September 1964 at the Odeon Leicester Square.

People may be caught out by the length of the runtime (2 hours 45 minutes and at least 20 minutes longer than any other Bond film) but it is fair to say that it flew over me and left a heart-warming shadow behind. Go see it.

True History of the Kelly Gang (2019)

If you are ready for the bizarre a great watch

[7/10 · 6 September 2021]

It's a great film if you like to be slightly challenged. I am not one for westerns and in fact had put off watching this for a couple of years. I should have seen it earlier.

The stylising of the film was impressive as the genre has very few examples of what the director has achieved in the shoot-out scenes.

The lead actor(s) were exceptional and the film picks up a pace in the second half. I was surprised by the critical reviews at IMDB and its average low mark. A solid 7 for me which is a very good score.

The films leaves an impression long after it has finished - so much so I was curious to find out more about Ned Kelly. I had only heard his name whilst growing up banded about as an Australian Robin Hood which is in fact pretty inaccurate.

A Quiet Place Part II (2020)

Better than the first one

[8/10 · 6 September 2021]

I felt this was better than the first one which is rare.

I thought it was nicely paced and the action was not too childish in so far as the action sequences were not over-done.

People complain about plot-holes but I felt the overall feel and context of the film led to suspension of disbelief subconsciously.

I would actually grade it 7.5 which is still a high mark for me.

The Tomorrow War (2021)

Well worth a watch

[8/10 · 25 July 2021]

I don't usually think much of Amazon movies. I had read a few headlines of reviews so my expectations were low. This was actually an enjoyable blockbuster movie. Good story and good entertainment. People criticising it need to get a life and a few lessons on how to become a proper film critic.

This is not some Oscar nominated film but an Amazon sci-fi film. I've seen over 2000 films, many pretentious but good (Birdman) and many pretentious and dreadful (The Tree of Life).

I would rather watch this than Oscar winner Nomadland because I wanted to experience escapism, entertainment and happiness.

Settlers (2021)

Worth a watch

[7/10 · 11 July 2021]

This film is a solid 7. I can't believe the low marks. Women will probably appreciate it slightly more than men due to some of the themes.

It did not drag and was a good take on the martian living theme.

Had I seen the mark on IMDB first I would not have watched it. If you like thoughtful films and not to be spoon -fed this meets the criteria.

There is action and it is very well shot.

I like sci-fi and this was above average.

Seaspiracy (2021)

Life changing

[10/10 · 5 April 2021]

I gave up meat a while back, not based on cowspiracy as I had never seen it but just because I don't like seeing animals suffer. I like seafood so thought no big deal. However seeing Seaspiracy has meant I will just finish what sea products I have left in the fridge/larder and will become a vegan. So yes this was life changing. Even if 10% of it was true it would be enough for me to change.

I won't be donating to Greenpeace and other associated charities as I feel cheated that they were in a special privileged position to understand what drives climate change / marine life existence due to research etc. But they chose to ignore the biggest threat due to conflicting interests is deplorable.

I will only support Sea Shepherd as a charity as they say it a it is and target commercial fishing.

I watched Cowspiracy straight after and wished I had seen it in 2014 when it came out. I'm late to the party but still upset the elephant in the room with regards to commercial fishing was kept under wraps by players who should have exposed it; Greenpeace, Oceana and the Marine Stewardship Council (aka. MSC who promote Tuna friendly catches).

It is shocking what entities will do in the name of charity. I ask everyone who reads this to think about becoming vegan, that's all.

The Secret Life of Pets (2016)

An unbalanced movie

[6/10 · 22 November 2019]

The best parts of this movie are contained in the first 20 mins and the last 10 mins. This is because they concentrate on the relationship between pets and their owners. People with pets will relate to these parts strongly and appreciate the subtle nuances that really encapsulate that unique bond between a person and their pet.

The action parts will please the younger children but in reality most adults will find these a bit boring as to a degree it's a bit "Tom & Jerry" slapstick.

Far from Heaven (2002)

Julianne Moore at her best

[8/10 · 21 November 2019]

Far from heaven is a very good movie. At times it borders on great, but for some reason it never reaches its full potential. I think this is up there as Moore's best performance (leading, at least). Quaid is also very strong for such a complex character. The cinematography is probably my favourite part of this film, as well as the score from Bernstein. Again, solid movie, but could have been a bit better.