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Barbie (2023)
Great but not without flaws
This movie was an absolute hoot at my screening! A week after it's release, my theater was packed with people, laughing and clapping throughout the whole film. It was a great experience, and I really enjoyed the movie. Michael Cera was probably my favorite actor along with Ryan gosling and surprisingly Kate McKinnon. The story and adventure was really fun, I was absolutely in love with the visuals throughout the film, and I thought the self awareness was really refreshing. The music also energized the film throughout. With all that being said, I did have two complaints. The first is that the conclusion of the movie is that men and women can't work together, and I think that was a really strange choice. I understand that the movie wanted to empower independence but collaboration is also very important. Second complaint, why the heck was there a Chevrolet commercial in the middle of the movie? Anyways loved the movie and can't wait to see what Greta Gerwig does next.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)
Redefining What A Movie Can Accomplish
For only the 16th time ever, this movie gets a perfect 10/10 from me. How come? Without a doubt, Across the Spider-Verse has done something that is completely new and original while still be a sequel to a previous film.
I can not imagine a single person going to see this movie and not absolutely loving it. First off, the movie is visually stunning. Each frame is a work of art while the film switches from art styles at rapid pace without distracting from the story in any way. The writers were much more bold and complex with the story this time around and it most definitely paid off. I was engaged in the storyline of every single character and could not stop imagining what a film about each person could be like. Finally, the sound was absolutely absurd! I could not believe at some points how fantastic the visuals and sound meshed together to bring the film to life.
Across the Spider-Verse benefits heavily from its predecessor. With a lot less explaining needing to go on about character backstories, the whole film was an adventure and I am here for it. Even when things were needed to be explained, like the multiverse, it was done so beautifully and well. Easily the best multiverse movie that has come out and there have been many.
Do yourself a favor and go watch this on the biggest screen near you. This is not something you want to miss seeing in theaters.
Still (2023)
Editing Masterclasss
This documentary has an interesting subject, cool vibe, and great narration but far and away the editing steals the show. I did not expect the editors to have such a grip on weaving newly shot scenes and scenes from Michael J. Fox's previous shows and movies to tell his life story. I found it a joy to hear Michael J. Fox tell his story while the scenes of his life play out before my eyes. I did find some of the details a bit drawn out and I think easily 10-15 minutes could have been removed from this documentary but overall it is super strong. I definitely recommend that you give this one a watch!
BlackBerry (2023)
Impressively Immersive Storytelling
In a way for a movie with pretty much no special effects it is sad that more people won't be able to see this movie in theaters. Far and away this has got to be the best movie so far for me of 2023. Air tried to do the same thing that BlackBerry did in a compelling way, but this movie surpasses it in almost every way. Visually, I felt immersed in the story of BlackBerry and the storytelling did not feel like I was being forced to learn every detail, but instead was shown a poetic narrative of the rise and fall of the company. The acting is top-notch, and the cinematography was completely new and creative. This film does a great job of not falling into the trap of musical biopics by trying to share every detail of the story but instead gives the viewer exactly what they need to know and nothing more. I also am somebody that doesn't laugh very often in a movie theater but I was chuckling multiple times in my screening. I definitely recommend that everybody give this movie a shot because you'll be blown away with the motifs, writing, and overall immersive of this film.
The Pez Outlaw (2022)
No right to be this well done
On the surface, the story of the Pez Outlaw is interesting at the very least but by no means life changing to the average viewer. The impressive thing to me, however, is that the documentarians took this story and absolutely turned it into a masterclass of creating an engaging documentary. The whole time I was completely engaged with the story by the sheer quality of storytelling that was taking place. Although the stakes were not high at all, I was worried about what would happen next to the protagonist Steve Glew. I laughed out loud multiple times and was mesmerized by the cinematography and stock footage.
Tetris (2023)
Tetris and Soviet Oppression
This film was pretty entertaining and quite original in it's story telling which was intriguing but overall I left it thinking it was just fine. The first 45 minutes of the movie was the most entertaining but then the rest of the film just felt really repetitive and lost its charm for me. The acting is pretty well done and I thought the dialogue was convincing enough. I just wish that either the film was 30 minutes shorter or that the filmmakers found ways to keep the storytelling interesting.
I thought the telling of the story seemed quite true to life but maybe a bit sensational leaning into the anti communist Soviet Union rhetoric.
Also, shout out to the art department for this film. I thought a lot of the sets and costumes were really great for a period piece.
Boston Strangler (2023)
What were they thinking?
Without a doubt, my favorite film genre is movies based on a true story and so it hurts to see somebody just tear this story to pieces. I completely understand that there is no verifiable truth associated with the story of the Boston Strangler(s) but this film presents the entirety of the story as a complete conspiracy. I feel like the writing was extremely poor which bogged down everything else. I would have loved to have enjoyed this film but it is completely incoherent, unengaging, and flat-out boring. The only redeemable qualities of this film are the performances of Knightley and Vrotsos as well as the interesting lighting/camera work in a few scenes.
I do give the filmmakers the befit of the doubt though because they choose to make the main characters of the film those that are trying to solve the crimes instead of those committing the crimes which is a much more difficult task. If you do want a movie that is caked in conspiracy, presents the case from the perspective of those trying to solve it, and is actually really well done - I would highly recommend checking out Zodiac!
The Whale (2022)
Amazing Emotional Depth
Wow was all I could feel as I walked out of the theatre from this one. I haven't given a movie a 10 for a very long time. I was beginning to think that maybe I was being a bit too cynical with how I watched films but this movie just showed me the bar at which an exceptional film can be at.
I was amazed at how authentic a movie that takes place in 2016 felt. So many people live a life like Charlie's, Alan's, Thomas's or Ellis and it just was so raw.
I felt like a major theme of this film was being honest with oneself about who they are and what they can do. A bit more honesty can help everyone make better decisions for themselves and those they love.
Great film that just blew me away.
Living (2022)
Simply Beautiful
Quite similarly to have a warm hot chocolate feels on a winters day. This film nourishes the soul. The themes presented of the end of mortality entice is the audience to understand the importance of fun, enjoying life. Throughout the film, I was entertained, moved and even laughed a bit. Nighy's performance was impressive yet I do not think that it merits a best actor nominee for the Academy Awards. I do see how this film was nominated for best adapted, screenplay, but it is definitely no champion. My conclusion this film is beautiful in its subtle simplicity, yet it is not much more than that.
Aftersun (2022)
Great for others
I am only writing this review so I can remember later on why I only gave this movie a 6. I understand that this movie has an extremely powerful and intimate presentation of the relationship between a reckless father and his young daughter. I noticed the intricacies and nuance that the film makers tried to convey throughout. I just did not connect with the film at all. I imagine that this film hit some people hard but for me I was quite bored with it by the end. I have to simply be true to my own feelings and opinions from a film and conclude that to me, it is simply ok. Don't take my rating too seriously because I can genuinely imagine somebody else watching this film thinking that it is the best thing they ever saw.
Triangle of Sadness (2022)
Sooooo close to greatness
While watching this movie I was completely infatuated with the smart way that the writes portrayed the social issues they are commenting on. The Russian capitalist and the socialist captain are amazingly written characters that provide the perfect amount of introspection and comedic relief. Honestly the first two hours of the movie are fantastic. I especially thought it was beutifully shot and the acting from many of the supporting roles was sharp.
But the ending was just so lazy. I understand the power dynamics they were trying to convey but it was just a let down. It was not like the ending of this film needed to be thought provoking, they already did lots of that throughout the film which I thoroughly enjoyed. Such a shame because otherwise this would have been a 10/10 film for me.
The Good Nurse (2022)
Actually A Good Serial Killer Depiction
I appreciate this movie because in no way does it glorify Charlie Cullen. I had read John Douglas' book about Cullen and was astounded at how much lack of remorse he has for killing hundreds of people. I think this movie did a great job at pulling the rug out from underneath us and revealing who actually was the good nurse in the film. I think it also did a great job at showing that sometimes the worst people among us can be the people we least expect. Cullen did what he did for so long because he was such a normal guy and nobody ever seemed to think he was insane. Great film that did it's job better than most.
Elvis (2022)
Everything he didn't expect
This movie is raw. Nobody escapes this film with a legacy untarnished which proves that there isn't a person on earth without skeletons in their closet. I was hooked throughout the entire film and never wanted the film to end. Without a doubt it is one of my favorite biopics and tells the story in an extremely entertaining fashion. I would watch this movie again in a heartbeat in almost any scenario. Do yourself a favor, make a big bowl of popcorn and sit down to watch one of the best movies of the year.
Elvis is an icon of rock and roll but his story is without a doubt so much more than a great performer.
Fa yeung nin wah (2000)
Breaks movie rules but not much of a story
Ok hear me out, I know that this movie is famous for having broken tons of cinematography rules and making hundreds of beautiful shots in a single film BUT if I'm too busy reading the subtitles I'm not gonna be able to enjoy it as much. The film is very pretty and I enjoyed it much but the story isn't that great. Overall, the film had a very unique look and feel which I appreciated because variety is the spice of life. More movie like this would be a great thing and I'd be open to exploring similar films in the future.
Good movie to watch with a movie buff or a cultured girl but other than that, just ok for me.
Hello There (1995)
Great for what it is
I imagine Louis C. K. sitting around being annoyed about how the world feels like a tired repetitive mess and thinking to himself, it's like everyone is speaking out of a tape recorder...BOOM! And the idea was birthed and this short film perfectly depicts what the monotone world of corporate America can be like. Nobody needed a two hour feature length film like this but I most defineltly feel that this short is a needed social commentary wrapped up in its little 5 minute run time.
Great job Louis and I think that it should be a staple for every film class that needs to talk about nonconventional film.
Yozhik v tumane (1975)
I didn't get it
I know, I know, it is supposed to be artsy but I frankly did not get it. I thought it was a good movie for children that shows a bedtime story, really nothing more than that.
I guess I could ask myself, well what does the horse mean? What does the dog mean? What does the alligator mean? What does any of it mean?
I don't know, and I guess it was intriguing enough for me to care.
I know, I know, it is supposed to be artsy but I frankly did not get it. I thought it was a good movie for children that shows a bedtime story, really nothing more than that.
I guess I could ask myself, well what does the horse mean? What does the dog mean? What does the alligator mean? What does any of it mean?
I don't know, and I guess it was intriguing enough for me to care.
The Death of Stalin (2017)
Complex, bloody, and hilarious
I really enjoyed this movie and I think that the filmmakers hit many home runs throughout the film. I could tell that the trip that I was supposed to be taken occurred perfectly; I laughed, was annoyed, felt suspense, and was disgusted all on cue.
That being said, the story is wildly complex with many characters that it is nearly impossible to keep track of the everything that it going on.
For me, this is a perfect work of satire and I think the world needs more of these kinds of films. Stalin and his cronies should not be allowed to be respected and I think this film does their atrocities the justice they deserve.
His Girl Friday (1940)
Where do I put it
I enjoyed this movie and I give it full credit as being a masterpiece of it's time but the happily ever after ending really killed the film for me.
Throughout the film I thought the themes of gender roles and corruption were being expertly explored but it seems the last ten minutes of the film throw it all away.
His Girl Friday scratches the itch of an old Hollywood film but for me, it isn't an itch I need scratched very often.
I want to see more movies like this and maybe if I find some old ones with a bit more complex story I will enjoy it more. For now, this movie is just alright and I am glad to have seen it.
Taxi Driver (1976)
Solitude's Effect
I don't know if I have a whole lot to stay about Taxi Driver but I do feel like it is an important film. The main character is seemingly alone in the world, only having his diary to express his true feelings about life, but is constantly bombarded by the hustle and bustle of New York City as a taxi driver.
I find the story to be enlightening as it depicts what can happen to a lonely character when they feel that they can finally make a difference in the world. By giving his everything to try and save somebody that didn't even understand what being saved would mean is heroic.
This film reminds me of the style of fight club and although it isn't exactly my cup of tea, I like it and would appreciate seeing more.
42 (2013)
Too much mass appeal
Jackie Robinson is a real hero and the great people around him are shown well in this film which I appreciate. I just felt like this movie was a little too cookie-cutter for me to really enjoy it fully. My guess is that the film didn't want to get to nitty gritty to appeal to the masses. I don't hate them for that, in my opinion the more people that know Robinson's story the better. My only wish is that we got more of the sensational acting and character development that took place in the tunnel in Pittsburg. For me, that scene stands out as the best part of the film by far.
Also, one more side note, I wish that we got to see a lot more of the supporting characters story in the film as well. Branch Rickey is the exact same person at the beginning and the end of the film if we are being honest, just a little more open to Jackie. Yeah a lot of the baseball players change their stripes and accept Jackie but we never get to really see why, it is all just implied.
Darbareye Elly (2009)
Foreign Magic
This film hits in a completely different way then American movies do. Think of why you rate schindlers list so highly and you will love this movie for a lot of the same reasons.
Throughout the film honesty and gednder roles are explored through the lens of a mystery film. The story is expertly written, leaving you to want the best and worst things to happen to certain characters.
It also humanizes a different culture. At their heart, westerners are not that different comparses to Iranians and this film bridges that gap.
Overall I loved the film and would happily watch it again but still, it isn't any masterpiece that I would rave on and on about to others.
The Terminal (2004)
One for the backpocket
Every once in a while I watch a movie and think to myself, I am so glad that people went to the effort to make this film. It has mass audience appeal and although it is long, I still feel like the pacing match the tone of an audience that would sit down to watch it.
I think Hanks does an incredible job at completely changing his image to be that of somebody that knows no english and is doing their best given the circumstances.
The scene where he finally leaves the airport leaves a bit to be wanted for but I think the ending is a perfect bow on this film.
Overall, I would pull this movie out anytime you want a feel good film with your family that leaves you satisfied when finished.
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent (2022)
Artistically goofy
The synopsis is clear, this movie does not take itself too seriously but after watching the movie it is also clear that this movie is very intentional and a work of art.
I found the themes and arc of the film to be completely satisfying and complex at the same time. At many times in the movie I was laughing hysterically and then a few moments later I would be glued to the screen as the story unfolds.
I also gained a greater appreciation for the depth of skill that Nicolas Cage has as an actor. He expertly uses his depth of film intelligence to convey a complex character that is a caricature of his true identity.
Wedding Season (2022)
Not half bad
I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that this movie is actually kind of good. I was kind of being roped into watching this with my wife and I had some pretty low expectations but they were well exceeded. I think the story was clever and the production was well enough done to entertain me for the duration of the film.
The big kicker in this movie is the themes it draws upon. I could easily list ten themes that it teaches and that is why I love it. The heroine is not depicted as a very good person at all and the raw ugliness of some of the peoples decisions is what drives the movie. I feel like I got to peak into the lives of real people and watch their crazy story unfold.
Definitely would recommend for a date night flick!
Margin Call (2011)
Good not-feel-good movie
Let's get this straight, this movie is not the big short and that's ok but by no means is a masterpiece.
I give a huge nod, however, to the many creative choices made throughout the film. The clichés of the characters actually provide genuine substance to an otherwise empty film. I appreciated the not-in-your-face nature of the film where you really feel like you are simply observing the story unfold.
My one major gripe is that there are real stories out there about what took place in Wall Street before the 2008 financial crisis but the writers chose to make up their own story. Nothing that took place in the film actually took place besides what is referenced as happening externally.
Overall, it's a good movie that I am happy to have watched once. I don't see any situation, however, I'm which I would recommend this movie to somebody else.