Change Your Image
dorbalinoalves
Reviews
Cidade de Deus (2002)
Se correr o bicho pega, se ficar o bicho come
"Cidade de Deus" it's an absolute masterpiece, there's simply no other way to describe it. This is the kind of film I'll rewatch year after year.
Fernando Meirelles's direction truly captures the harsh reality of the Favelas in Brasil, where the gun reigns supreme and safety is a luxury no one can really afford. Without holding back, we get to see a dirty, bloody and authentic portrayal "da Cidade de Deus"
This film has it all, action, suspense, thriller, drama, and romance. Its vast storytelling and interconnected narratives remind me of a Guy Ritchie film, complete with a multitude of characters and clever plotlines. Besides that, what truly distinguishes this film is its protagonist, who, much like the audience, serves as a simple observer within the unfolding chaos. Boscapé, the protagonist, embodies a relatable figure that deeply connects with every member of the audience.
To conclude I like to point out the amazing work of every single actor present in "Cidade de Deus", for their outstanding performance, especially the kid that gets shot in the foot. Get that little man an Oscar.
*insert fingertips kiss GIF*
Can't wait to watch it next year.
A Perfect Getaway (2009)
Big trouble in little Kauai
"The Perfect Getaway," probably one of the worst film titles ever, seems like one of those romantic comedy films starring Ben Stiller and Jennifer Aniston, but don't judge a book by its cover. I wasn't expecting much, so this film managed to exceed my expectations.
It's a fast-paced thriller with a somewhat flawed script and a few plot holes, but, in a way, it redeems itself with a clever twist at the end. Some might argue that the ending doesn't quite add up, especially considering some misleading dialogue between the main characters early on. However, upon reflection, it seems to me that Cliff and Cydney were trying to get into character.
Overall, "The Perfect Getaway" delivers an entertaining thrill ride, and by the way, really nice touch in the pupils scene.
The Creator (2023)
Should've focused more on the storyline
Should've focused more on the storyline
"The Creator" begins with an amazing world-building and impressive CGI, considering its budget. However, it falls short due to a predictable and uninspired script. Although initially intriguing, the film's momentum fades halfway through. The film lacks character development, with most of them failing to evoke empathy or interest. As for the protagonism, Joshua's inclusion seems more of a plot necessity than integral to the story.
Honestly, I'm surprise this isn't a Michael Bay's film, it really seems like it with the astonishing special effects combined with a weak script.
Shutter Island (2010)
"Sanity's not a choice"
Truly the film you advise someone when they ask you for a psychological thriller. Not much to say here, being a Martin Scorsese film, it's well directed as always. As for DiCaprio, just another outstanding performance, basically nothing you wouldn't expect from these two.
Just two things I'd like to point out. Frist, remarkable work from the casting team, for choosing Mark Ruffalo, I honestly think his acting skills, really suits someone who doesn't really know how to act, so basically Mark Ruffalo.
Secondly, I honestly don't know if this is just Teddy's mind playing tricks on him or not, but what was the thing with the piece of paper one of the patients writes for Teddy that says "RUN"? And why did she write it, she could just tell Teddy to run, since his partner wasn't there any way. This just makes me think that maybe Teddy was really an investigator there and not a patient, or maybe that's just on Teddy's mind.
Don't let my review fool you, this film is a masterpiece. I just didn't understand the note part, and I'm also expressing my dislike for Mark Ruffalo's acting skills :)
Dumb Money (2023)
Looks like I missed out on the chance to become rich.
"Dumb Money" a "David vs Goliath" stock market story, that will be remembered in the books. Expect that in this book the target audience is younger, and we have Cardi B songs as background noise.
I had only heard about the Gamestop shortage after it had occurred, so I guess I didn't pay much attention to it. Therefore, with few knowledge about it, learning it from this film was... well... interesting. The film is well written, everyone even with little knowledge of how the stock market works, can easily understand it. As for the characters, despite my dislike for Pete Davidson and Seth Rogen, I can admit that they delivered commendable performances, especially Paul Dano. Generally, it's a decent film that could have been better if it weren't for that awful music, seriously, what happened there?
In conclusion, I enjoyed "Dumb Money." After all, who doesn't appreciate a captivating underdog tale?
Identity (2003)
Well, I wasn't expecting that
Well, I wasn't expecting that... This film came as a pleasant surprise, especially since I delved into it with little context, and I recommend others do the same. Beginning as a classic mystery thriller, we are introduced to a diverse cast brought together by a series of unfortunate events, leading them to a remote motel. As the mystery deepens, it becomes evident that we are in the presence of a killer-on-the-loose scenario.
I watched this film with my girlfriend, and we usually try to guess the plot. Sometimes we get it right, sometimes we don't. Well, neither of us was expecting how the film would turn out, making it a delightful surprise. While the film delivered brilliant performances and introduced a unique plot twist that enhanced its overall enjoyment, it falls short when considering some evident lazy or easy writing.
I appreciate films that delve into the complexities of the human mind and explore imaginary scenarios. However, this tendency sometimes makes it easier for the writers, who don't really need to connect the dots since it doesn't need to make sense. The film "Identity" exemplifies this, revealing in the end that the entire scenario unfolds within Malcom Rivers' mind. Consequently, the events in the motel lack a need for coherence or logical sense, which could be disappointing for viewers that keep attention to detail, hoping to solve the mystery. In other words, anything could really happen in that motel, as it's not relevant to the story. Given that, although the kid (the killer) died in the car accident, in the end, he was still part of one of Malcolm Rivers' personalities. With that, I can also argue that every one of those personalities is still alive; therefore, the motel plot was useless. Basically, "Identity" is a great film if you don't pay attention to every detail.
In conclusion, despite a few plot holes, the film emerges as a satisfying thriller. Special commendation to John Cusack for his outstanding performance-I freaking love that guy's acting.
Napoleon (2023)
Who tells a tale adds a tail
Ridley Scott chose to tell the story as he intended, and although I understand the importance of creative freedom, the film still falls short of the expectations it initially sets.
The film opens with spectacular battle sequences, offering a captivating portrayal of the French Revolution and Napoleon's early displays of military power. However, the narrative weakens when attempting to delve into the personal struggles between Napoleon and Josephine, combining it with frequent time jumps, that make the audience confused, making it challenging to fully connect with the characters.
The noticeable disparity within the film gives the impression of two different directors at work. One shines in crafting breathtaking battle scenes and strategic depictions of Napoleon's triumphs, providing an astonishing introduction that captures the essence of the French Revolution and Napoleon's formidable tactical strength on the battlefield. On the contrary, the other aspect of the film features lazy writing, attempting to convey Napoleon and Josephine's drama unsuccessfully.
Ridley Scott's attempt to portray Napoleon as emotionally dependent on Josephine, despite his strength and strategic brilliance on the battlefield, feels misguided. The film inadvertently transforms Napoleon into a somewhat goofy figure, giving the impression of a parody rather than a serious exploration of the French leader's complexities.
While the battle scenes in the movie sparked my excitement, the film ultimately fell short of my expectations. I was expecting a portrayal of a leader, but instead, I found myself confronted with a depiction that felt more like a parody-a true joker of a leader.
The Killer (2023)
Average film with a superb director
The killer is your tipical murder for hire film. With a director like David Fincher and a protagonist like Michael Fassbinder this film had everything to sucessed. Well it did... in a way. It's good, but not close to Fincher's best works.
The film builds suspense with Fincher's signature style and features a memorable fight scene reminiscent of "The Raid". As for Fassbender, he brings a unique touch to his character, displaying minimal emotions throughout the film, contributing to a suspenseful climax.
However, the film's slow-paced scenes may leave audiences feeling somewhat bored as the narrative tends to repeat itself. It all goes down as a revenge story, were the main character has to deal with everyone that threatens his life.
Despite these drawbacks, 'The Killer' stands as a decent film, largely owing it to the director's and protagonist's commendable efforts."
Midsommar (2019)
I was expecting to much, my bad
Everyone was calling this movie a masterpiece, so I decided to watch it... and it's pretty bad.
I was quite enjoying the first hour of the movie, but after that, it was nothing but a snowball of confusion. First of all, the characters are not likable and clearly, the decisions they make are extremely unrealistic Besides this movie is so boring I'd rather watch the grass grow. Didn't manage to stand up to my expectations.