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Reviews
The Matrix Resurrections (2021)
Why the hate?
Look here: I do not agree with the slant of the writers and directors of this movie, and any slant they encapsulated into this movie is so subtle I couldn't see it. This is such an underrated movie I can't remember Ben begin to explain why. It respected the original work, created a new spin.
For those who think it's a money grab, you're the same one giving Spider-Man a 10. For those who think it's woke, you just can't put your opinions aside and see the movie objectively.
Go in with an open mind, not a closed one. This movie is worth watching. Sure it has some flaws, but name a movie that doesn't!? It's entertaining, and that's what movies should always be about.
The King (2019)
Not every movie today is a political allegory
Good lord why have we become so dense to try to draw parallels to today's politics environment with every movie? It was a movie about a 15th Century King loosely based off of Shakespeare... and it was a great movie. I don't get the Trump this and Trump that talk... just shut up and make movies Hollywood and shut up and watch them America. Good God everyone's losing their bloody minds....
Living with Yourself (2019)
Classic Paul Rudd
The man who never ages nails it in this show. A very dark comedy with a tightly wound, perfectly paced story and one of Netflix's best originals since stranger things. And that unexpected cameo was a laugh out loud moment. It also doesn't feel the need to add "fluff/graphic sex" to try to appeal to the masses. If you like Paul Rudd ( who doesn't?) then you will like this incredibly creative show.
Cargo (2017)
A few plot holes, tough to watch, but a very good movie
This is a movie that you really have to be in the right mood to watch. It is heavy. The concept of basically having 48 hours to save your daughter who is still practically an infant from a zombie apocalypse is quite the tall task, but then through in the evil of man in addition to blood thirsty zombies, and as a father I found myself having a tough time coping with the circumstances Martin Freeman's character had to deal with. Speaking of Martin Freeman, such a tremendous actor. I wouldn't have watched this if not for him. I don't understand the bad reviews of this movie, sure it had a few plot holes, but I give kudos to the filmmakers who turned a 7 minute short into a full length film. It kept my interest the whole time and the story was very interesting. It had heart, it was intense at points, and it keeps you in tune up until the very end. Well worth the watch and one of Netflix's best original movies, which unfortunately isn't saying much, but had it not been a Netflix movie, it would still be good. Keep putting movies like this out Netflix and maybe we will keep watching.
Arrival (2016)
One That Sticks With You Emotionally
As the climax of the movie wanes and you slowly begin to realize the true meaning of this film, you can't help but feel overwhelmed and ask yourself, "what if I got another chance at life?"
It is not a sci-fi film. This is a true love story. Not a romance, but as the Greek call it, Agape. The highest form of love. She knows how her story ends, but she chooses to relive her fate.
I don't really want to give anything critical away here because this movie needs to be watched, and it needs to be felt. Anyone who has had pain, disappointments, or regrets, needs to watch this movie for its beautiful message, and enjoy it for what it is- a well made movie that is unique and beautiful in every way, something sorely lacking in Hollywood these days.
One note: Max Richter's "On The Nature of Daylight" was perfectly utilized in this film, I truly do not think the moment it was used would not be as impactful if not for this beautiful song. The end was definitely the highlight of the film, and when you hear the faint, weeping strings come in, it's almost automatic, you begin to feel like the events that are unfolding are happening to you. Truly a remarkable film in every way.
Mass Effect 3 (2012)
Even with the ending, this game cannot be beat.
Let's be honest, they don't make stories in games like this. This is by far the best video games, and sci-fi's in any entertainment medium, period. One cannot but feel disappointed about the ending that basically doesn't sum up the game, instead it acts as a deus ex machina and gives you a final, yet dull set of decisions. 99% of the game was amazing: Each character who was a squad member has a purpose in this game, albeit some more than others. I particularly loved the Aralakh Company mission, the scene where Kai Leng and Thane go toe to toe, and the Miranda mission in search of her father. I can go on and on with what makes this not only the best game in the trilogy, but one of the best pieces of art out there. However, we need to talk about the bad and how it could be better:
I didn't like how it ended, and a few things about the story could have been tweaked or tightened up. I didn't like The Illusive Mans ending, seemed to kinda fizzle out rather than treating him like the true antagonist he was. I hated how on the last mission they go back to Earth. Why not have the Crucible not only a weapon, but be a map to the hiding spot of the Reapers then all the galaxy after being decimated and the Reapers returning only to get obliterated by the many races? In that hiding place there is a planet where the Reapers use drones to operate their infrastructure and its up to Shepard to destroy it. Seems way better. Also, why oh why couldn't all of the people who were in your squad over the past 3 games be on the Normandy for the final mission giving you ample choices on who you want to be by your side at the end. Of course a fan will almost always choose Liara, Ashley, or Garrus. But imagine if you had Wrex, Grunt, Kaiden, Jacob, Tali, and everyone else at your disposal? It would've given the game a final emotional punch. I'm fine with the ending choices and Shepard's ultimate sacrifice, but I think the choices should have just been synthesis, destroy just the Reapers, not all synthetic life, or control. Then we see all civilizations rebuilding either with the aid of the Reapers, or on their own.
To me, that would be the ending this game deserves. However, this game will always hold a special place in my heart because I spent many a sleepless nights playing this, and every time I played it I felt more strongly about my opinion that this is one of the best pieces of art in all mediums. Hopefully a TV Show comes of it, or a remastered and redone game series that will hold true to its original content but give it the many story mulligans it deserves.
El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie (2019)
A worthy closing....
First off, if you're a Breaking Bad fan how can you not like this movie? This was a great prologue type movie that was made to be a closing in finality of the Breaking Bad arc. Aaron Paul did a tremendous job showing Jesse's fear but dedication to getting out of his predicament. That said, this was pretty much a 2 hour episode of Breaking Bad, but that's not a bad thing. I did find myself having to recall some moments and characters, even being a Breaking Bad fan, so I explore you all to maybe rewatch the 5th season cliff notes to figure out what exactly all happened, other than the obvious moments we will never forget. I didn't, so I myself was lost at times, and this movie would probably be better if I knew exactly what happened.
I appreciate more closure with Jesse's character. Breaking Bad was perfect and I really didn't have any quarrels with how it left Jesse's story "unfinished," but now I see why the movie was made.
The movie had all that worked in Breaking Bad, the suspense, the humor, the pacing, the overall feel. It felt good to be back in the ABQ, well done Vince and all for making a great send off movie for one of the greatest shows ever made. When I rewatch the series I will probably rewatch this, and my rating might be higher, but for now an 8 it is.
Toy Story 4 (2019)
After 25 years....
The first toy story came out in 95, and I thought it was ahead of its time in storytelling, and technical prowess. 25 years later, the makers of the 4th carry that torch well. Such a beautiful story of friendship, sacrifice, selflessness, and perseverance. Pixar continues to be ahead of the curve in telling stories in a profound way that ultimately matter to humanity. I am so glad they made this movie. It was funny, charming, and by the end you couldn't help but have a smile on your face while being incredibly moved. The new characters didn't steal any of the recurring characters' thunder, they rather added to it in a whole new way. Well worth the watch, and buy in my opinion.
The Durrells (2016)
Charming Little Gem
Boy am I glad I found this hidden gem. Such a hilarious show. the story is so charming and the characters are so relatable. It's one of those shows you just can't help but laugh and smile along. Our friends from across the pond sure have a unique sense of humor (and that is a compliment) so if you enjoy uncomfortable and dry humor, this show is for you. Well done and can't wait for next season!
In the Shadow of the Moon (2019)
Interesting Concept, unnecessary axe to grind.
The premise was enough for me to take a stab at watching this movie, so I tried to stay interested throughout to see what happens. But as you continue to watch the social message it's trying to espouse becomes more and more unbearable. They could have picked so many different ways to handle this concept but they went all Hollywood and assumed all white people are homicidal fascists. The message of the movie is patriotism is terrorism. Sorry, I can't forgive such a hateful message.
In spite of the message, the acting and writing was subpar also. Definitely felt like a B Grade movie, something Netflix seems to flock to. They gotta start putting out quality or I fear they are going to die on the vine.
So if feeling a sense of guilt for being born with white skin and watching a movie that was made by fifth graders is your thing, look no further then this. If you actually enjoy movies that take effort, look elsewhere.
Between Two Ferns: The Movie (2019)
Laughed til I cried
Say what you want about the actually story involved in the movie, the interviews and exchanges between Zach and everyone involved were hilarious. I haven't laughed this hard since Borat. With that, the movie is in good company and should be seen for anyone who loves irreverent humor.
Blood Father (2016)
A Fathers Love for his Daughter
This movie is a testament to a fathers love for his daughter. Link barely knew his daughter, didn't agree with her choices, but he is still willing put his life on the line to protect her. Mel Gibson was the perfect choice for this role, a broken, flawed man trying to right his wrongs in real life, and he was able to fully realize this for his role as Link. If you want an enjoyable flick, keep this one on your list because it was well worth the watch. And welcome back, Mel!
John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum (2019)
Not up to John Wick standards, but still better than most
John Wick is one of the best trilogies to date, the style of the movie and its fight scenes are so amazing to watch. The dialogue while sparse, is almost crafted to seem unintentionally witty. With that said, this was the weakest installment. Still an amazing movie, but could have been written better and tightened up a bit. I hope this does not become a franchise they ruin with rushed movies to meet some arbitrary deadline. If they can continue to finely craft these movies, this will be one of the best movie universes that Hollywood has conjured up. Thoroughly enjoyed this movie, it was funny, fun to watch how John Wick takes care of his business, and I'm excited to see where story goes from here. And Halle Berry's dogs, awesome addition. They steal the show.
Good Omens (2019)
Hilarious and Clever!
Such an awesome concept and quite an interesting artistic rendering of the end times. The back and forth between David Tennant and Michael Sheen was hilarious to watch. Check your religion at the door and just enjoy this comedic gem for what it is, just for your entertainment. As a Christian, I did not find it offensive and It's not disparaging to Christianity, it's a piece of fiction.
Snowpiercer (2013)
Neat Concept, Could've Been Better
Climate Change theme aside, this was quite an interesting movie. It was basically 3 movies: 1 was developing the story and characters, 2 was a sci-fi action flick, and the 3rd movie was some sort of Deus ex machina/wtf moment. 2/3 of the movie was good. I did not like how it ended. It needed to be more believable, and it would have been amazing, but I can't get over this one giant flaw the movie has, which I will reserve for those who watch it to figure out; I won't spoil it.
Chernobyl (2019)
Interesting, Powerful, Not for Entertainment
This was a tough watch. I cannot believe these things happened. This was a purely evil event that cannot be understated. The people who orchestrated this botched ordeal deserve to rot. With that, the creators made something spectacular. Watching every event unfold was beautifully executed, but as the title of this review states, don't watch this expecting entertainment. I had to take a break halfway through because I had to process it all. The creators made this a true to life as possible, and it was heart-wrenching, difficult, but necessary to see the wicked hearts of men. It also shows there were decent people amidst the evil. I'm for nuclear energy, but this shows definitely makes you think twice on that position.
Aladdin (2019)
My one wish is to have my head lopped off after watching this culturally relative garbage
Ok the original was mostly held true in this remake, the production was great, the cinematography was great, but then Disney goes all woke on us. In the original, Jasmine was a woman who just didn't want to marry to appease the law, she wanted love. In the new one, she just wants to be Sultan and rule the world... why, Disney, why??? What's wrong with just wanting love? Oh, they wanted to be culturally relative. Stupid addition to the movie... and that number of Jasmine singing her power anthem towards the end...good lord someone rub my back while I throw up the popcorn... or just lop my head off. Even Will Smith couldn't save it. It's a 6 just because of the source material from which it came.
Bird Box (2018)
Great Thriller
What can I say, I enjoyed this movie. The overall underlying theme of the movie is what made it a profound art imitates life microcosm. The movie had some great twists and turns, the acting was top notch. While this is not saying much, this is the best movie Netflix has come out with to date. You don't want to miss it!
Pokémon: Detective Pikachu (2019)
Predictable but Fun
The idea and concept of this movie is awesome, and kudos for landing Ryan Reynolds, it would not have been as good without him. With that said, other than enjoying the occasional nostalgia watching part of my childhood on the big screen, the story was about as cliched and predictable as it comes. But, it has enough highlights to keep you interested, and laughing. Be aware parents, there are 2 swear words in the movie despite the PG rating, so if you are trying to keep your kids from hearing these words (even though they are "mild" swear words), be warned.
Once Upon a Time in... Hollywood (2019)
Just needed one more small thing to happen and it'd be a 10
Those last 10 minutes.... holy cow! About as satisfying an ending QT has conceived, rivaling Inglorious Basterds. But those waning moments aside, this movie was absolutely hysterical. Leo's self-loathing diatribes were comedy gold. Brad Pitt's mannerisms and delivery of his lines rivals his genius portrayal of Aldo Raine in Inglorious Basterds.
Now it's a revenge fantasy, so you know QT took some creative liberties with the Manson Family saga in the late 60s, but here is one thing that was missing: a satisfying death of the ring leader himself, Charles Manson. I understand the 3 involved at the end of the film we're actually the 3 who murdered Sharon Tate and her friends, but can you imagine if Charles Manson decides himself to show up to Rick's house only to meet Cliff, Brandy, and Rick, fresh from taking names (no you're name was dumber than that... classic line!)? That would've made this a 10. However, this movie was as good as it gets. Well done QT for not caring what the PC culture says and being you, you made a gem. Last word, give Leo and QT the oscars, because both give their best performances to date, but Brad Pitt stoke the show. Amazing movie, can't wait to see it again!
Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
Way better than the first 2 of the new trilogy
I don't understand why people panned this movie??!! It was highly entertaining and well made. It was tightly wound to give it some creative liberties but stays true to the saga and sets up the story as we know it. The cast was absolutely perfect. For the love of God bring back the side story movies Disney because both this and Rogue One were way better than the trilogy/linear movies.
The Circle (2017)
Anti-Trust 2
Anyone remember the movie Anti-Trust with Ryan Philippe? No... oh well... this is the sequel. Boring and poorly executed. I will say I understand why Google wouldn't allow the producers to use their name....but if that was the case the movie would probably just be a documentary.
Stranger Things: Chapter Eight: The Battle of Starcourt (2019)
Season 1 still can't be beat, but still amazing
This season was a bit of a redemption for Stranger Things. While I absolutely loved season 2, I was left slightly disappointed. That disappointment was heard by the show runners and they upped the ante for season 3. However, the emotional grit from that infamous cpr scene in season 1 episode 8 and the goodbye to el in that same episode left me in tears, especially the flashback to hopper losing his daughter. That scene alone made this the best show on tv. But I digress back to season 3.
Season 3 was an amazing thrill ride that was put together perfectly and had an amazing story arc. The highlight of the season to me was Billy. The breadth of his story throughout the season all the way to his redemptive end. Now some may say how does El mentioning to Billy his mother and his love for her overcome the power of the Mind Flayer, but that's the beauty. Love is the most powerful force, and Billy's love for his mom turned him into a savior. Well acted too, Dacre, well done. That was by far the most emotional scene, and surprisingly I felt kinda 'meh' with the prospect of Hopper dying. Sorry.
They've set it up perfectly for season 4, and here is my theory about the American in the Russian Prison... it's Papa/ Dr. Brenner from season 1. Sorry Hopper acolytes, he's probably not coming back. Take it to the bank.
Glass (2019)
Why the hate???
M Night, you sir have redeemed yourself! Your run of The Sixth Sense, Unbreakable and Signs was legendary, but you waned to mediocrity over the past decade. Split made you a household name again but Glass was even better and now you're back! I don't understand the hate on this movie, it could not have ended any better. What did you want the good guy to live, to find love and ride off in the sunset? Please leave your Hollywood mindset at the door when you watch this and enjoy it for what it is: an entertaining movie that was well made and executed. James McAvoy was amazing, the twists and turns were epic and it's good to see my boy Bruce Willis back in the mainstream. Please watch this movie, you will not regret it.
Daredevil: Penny and Dime (2016)
Jon, you nailed it
Season 2 > season 1. Wow those last minutes of this episode were heartbreaking and beautiful. The action scenes prior to it were visceral and courageous. You go from watching a borderline sociopath turn into a broken and honest man. You see a tortured mind become vulnerable. One of the best performances I've seen in a long time from anyone. Way to go Mr Bernthal.