parker_nyc Reviews

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023)

One for the 1980s kids

[9/10 · 30 July 2023]

Really glad I went to the theater to watch Harrison Ford play Indiana Jones for the final time, thoroughly enjoyed it.

The production quality and cinematic experience was much closer to the original 3 movies than Crystal Skull which whilst entertaining had poor CGI and weak attempts at Russian accents.

This time Indy is back battling the Nazis whilst keeping the day job which is what he does best.

Didn't find the movie depressing at all which some reviews suggested but it was emotional saying goodbye to Harrison Ford playing the character. It felt like the end of an era for those of us that grew up with Indiana Jones, Star Wars, Ghostbusters, The Goonies and countless other 80s classics.

I think they did a really good job with the final movie in the franchise, it's a shame more folks didn't see it on the big screen and would encourage anyone who still can to do so.

It's worth it just to sit in the cinema and listen to that fabulous John Williams score just one more time.

Gladiator (2000)

Monumental History

[10/10 · 26 November 2022]

Breathtaking movie that I think is Ridley Scott's finest work. It's rare that a historical movie seems so authentic and this film brings Ancient Rome to life with some of the most sophisticated CGI scenes of its time. Joaquin Phoenix and Russell Crowe are phenomenal and let's not forget this last appearance of the legendary Oliver Reed. A film that will be regarded in years to come as one of the best in the business if not already recognized as such. As an avid historian, it's hard to fault the authenticity of the film and it's refreshing that it doesn't include a modern narrative or soundbytes. Highly recommended viewing.

Valley of Tears (2020)

Excellently made, great watch

[9/10 · 27 February 2021]

Highly recommend watching this in Hebrew with subtitles, the dubbed version doesn't do it justice. A great insight into the war especially for those of us that weren't born when it happened. Think Israeli Band of Brothers. Poignant moment when two young innocent Arab and Israeli kids meet, really illustrates the futility of war. I sense the directors really tried not to glorify the cause of either side and deserve great credit for doing so.

The Kitchen (2019)

35 mins in, probably switching off now

[5/10 · 25 September 2020]

Fairly optimistic with the cast, 35 mins in and struggling to feel any sort of connection with the film. Seldom feel like this unless it's not very good. Seems very parallel universe to the realities of the modern world.