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The Night Of (2016)
Grimm Brother's tale you thought Disney created!!
Ahh.... The story you've heard oh so many times before. Except this time, it's not the shiny happy rounded edged version Disney makes. This is the gritty Grimm Brother's version that made you go "What?" It's the Sunday movie given the silver screen remake(that you'll actually like!)It's also one of the reasons HBO is the definition of Premium Television. The story follows an American born young man named Nasir. His mother and father are of Pakistani origins and they live in New York City. Nasir is young, eager, and about to get his life turned upside down and then some. Without giving the story away any further, go to You Tube and watch a preview if your second guessing yourself. It's Oz meets The Wire meets Law and Order. The acting is A+++ and the story although familiar in framing is told in a way that even if you happen to catch on, you'll not want to stop until your sure your right and then I believe you won't regret the 8+ hours invested. HBO has been my choice since I was a child when I first got cable in my house. Their choice in content has rarely let me down. I grew up in front of the TV and my father was a projectionist for the first 18 years of my life. I've seen damn near every angle of everything. My wife hates going to movies with me anymore or watching shows because I have it pegged before the half way point. Nothing keeps my attention but, this did! My wife and I heard about this during the 7th of 8 episodes in and we binged it with company over. I was so rude and when the episode was over, I apologized for being engrossed and got the response of "It's fine. how many more are there? This is good!" I rarely log in to comment on anything unless it's that terrible or just that great. This was amazing to me. It was thrilling, kept my attention and even in the gist of seeing where the story was going, I didn't want to stop until I knew for sure. There's a reason HBO doesn't give their content to any streaming services because it's worth the price you pay. Grab a friends password or ditch Netflix or Hulu for a month. Try HBO out . Give this a chance and get hooked because this in my opinion is worth the price if nothing else.
Room (2015)
Do what movies ask and remove yourself from your world. There's always "Room" for something Different.
I read some of the reviews, as I normally do, for this movie. I too, like others, depend on IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes for guidance on movies to watch. In a sea of crappy art films and overdone remakes of old classics. Today's ease of filming anything makes viewing films these days a chore. Maybe that's why all the oldies are rated so high. I saw the rating for "Room" and thought it was worth a go. Sometime during viewing, I glance back at IMDb to get another view of opinions or plots. Although the first ones are usually on par, others tend to have an opposite opinion which their entitled to have. I had to write something on this film because of some of the opinions expressed about their views on the story. It's one thing to have an opposite opinion of someone but, I think it's an injustice to categorize a movies has a "Housewives" story or "Lifetime" quality. This film is waaay beyond that! And I'm a Man in my mid 30's. Movies are our gifts to escape ourselves and take a break to immerse ourselves in someone elses shoes and see things through the eyes of the characters. This story is about an abducted girl who was abducted, raped, and locked in a shed. Her child, only knew for his 5 yrs. of existence what happened in Room. Our job as a viewer is to put ourselves in Jack's place and realize a world he thought was only on television. To cast this experience aside is to belittle our human emotions. I personally felt for both the main characters. To try to comprehend what they are going through,.......this film does better than average to try to begin to convey what it would be like. To try to feel their situation. That's what makes this film so good! I wonder about the world I'm trying to raise my children in knowing how easy it is for some to dismiss our humanity. To care about people, even for just a few moments before going back to reality. This film IS NOT just for housewives and women folk! This is for any human who feels. Who understands what emotions are and how to feel them. Don't let anyone sway you from watching this!! It's a reminder of a sick world and how to come back from the dark into the light
An Open Secret (2014)
Unfortunately More Bones Than Meat
I have been excited to see this film since I caught a glimpse of the trailer. My father was a projectionist when I was young so I spent plenty of time at theaters in and out of the booth watching movies. During the 80's and 90's, a lot of child actors came and went and I'd always wondered where some had gone. I figured the worst and hoped this Documentary would shed some light on possible outcomes that had befallen some of them. "An Open Secret" starts with footage from Different Strokes episode with the bicycle shop and commentary from Todd Bridges explaining that he wasn't comfortable with the episodes topics and wanted little to nothing to do with it. Additional commentary leads to interviews with former child actors/performers and their parents recounting early stories entering the business. We are then introduced to names from the industry such as Michael Harrah, a SAG Youth Organization official, Marc Collins-Rector, a convicted Child Molester and former industry giant, Brian Peck, a producer of children's television for major networks, and Bryan Singer, famed Director of the X-Men franchises. How do these names relate to each other? All are accused of using their connections to sexually molesting young actors. Unfortunately for viewers, the film barely scratches the surface. There is audio of conversations between victims and abusers. There is a little background into other accused offenders but the majority of the film revolves around Michael Harrah's accusations as a manager and it's effects on the storied of 3 primary subjects. One which ends rather tragically. I understand that a certain portion of the film had been edited due to the dropped lawsuit between one of the main subjects but, I felt like they could have explored more into the allegations. There is definitely something going on in the hills of Hollywood and behind the doors of Power Players in the industry. Assuming besides this being a rather quiet topic, there isn't a lot of information available due to actors not talking afraid their careers would be affected.I applaud Amy Berg's attempt to shine light on the subject. It just seems that further investigation and follow up would further fold the story together better. It is worth a viewing and hopefully this film will encourage other victims to come forward to help find an end to the epidemic of child abuse. The Documentary fanatic me just wished there was more information
Where to Invade Next (2015)
If We Could Only Get It Together.
I have been a fan of Michael Moore's projects for quite some time. I'll get that out first and foremost. I don't claim a political party or ideology. I just live with the "Do Unto Others" philosophy. As an American, Moore's Films have opened my eyes to just how "Awesome" of a country America isn't anymore and things we could/need to fix in order to become what we have potential to be. "Where to Invade Next?" is a Documentary not as much about our short falls but, rather highlight our neighboring countries that have a leg up on common issues we face. From Norway to Germany and even Slovenia Invading and Claiming the Great Ideas for ourselves. Presidents, Police, Prison Officials, Military Officers, to regular citizens describe their thoughts, feelings, impressions on their lives as well as their views on ours. Showcasing solutions to Heath Care, Laws and Crimes, Drugs and Abusers as well as a better personal life for all. Regardless of your income, social status, political affiliation, or way of thinking, EVERYONE should watch this film!! If America wants to TRULY change the way the citizens and the rest of the world think about us, we should all take a look at our competition and catch up. As Will McAvoy said "We're seventh in literacy, twenty-seventh in math, twenty-second in science, forty-ninth in life expectancy, 178th in infant mortality, third in median household income, number four in labor force, and number four in exports. We lead the world in only three categories: number of incarcerated citizens per capita, number of adults who believe angels are real, and defense spending, where we spend more than the next twenty-six countries combined, twenty-five of whom are allies. None of this is the fault of a 20-year-old college student, but you, nonetheless, are without a doubt, a member of the WORST-period-GENERATION-period-EVER-period, so when you ask what makes us the greatest country in the world, I don't know what the f@%k you're talking about?" We can change. "Where to Invade Next" has a decent plan of were to start.
Straight Outta Compton (2015)
Almost Perfect! If all history could be that fun to learn.
I have been waiting 2 plus years to write a review for this film. 1988 changed my life when a friend dubbed me "Straight outta Compton" and Eazy Duz It. My 9 year old brain blew! I was worried that this film would come off corny. Knowing the characters has such a big part in the scripting and production made me nervous. This is not just a biography of a rap group, this is the birth of West Coast Rap and Gangsta Rap period! Enough props. Let's get to it...
The acting is amazing! The actors portraying the subjects are on point! Never does it seem overwritten or polished. Everyone is given their respects for their parts played and emotions aren't held back for the point of toughing these Gangsta Rappers. The human element is ever present and encouraged. Jason Mitchell deserves praise for his portrayal of Eric Eazy- E Wright! To go from crack dealing gang banger to the legendary figure dying from Aids, that tall order is filled almost effortlessly. Corey Hawkins as Dr.Dre was a great fit. O'Shea Jackson Jr deserves credit for his efforts to play his father. He deserved the role. Neil Brown Jr. (Dj Yella) and Aldis Hodge (Mc Ren)aren't as big of a role in the film which feels awkward if your a fan because they feel less important (In My Opinion). Paul Giamatti ( Jerry Heller) played the role well. Jerry was more a faceless character. Interviews with him at the release of the film didn't seem optimistic. He wasn't consulted about the part and I personally think it was a fair and just portrait. All in all, the actors did an amazing job translating the real life to the screen. So why the 9 instead of a 10??
I have learned to take reviews of movies with a grain of salt. Different strokes for different folks. Everyone gets their opinions based on their views and beliefs. As a huge fan of the genera as well the group, I wished the entire 4+ hours that was filmed was included. Of close to 4.5 hours of footage, the movie was trimmed to just under 2 and a half hours in length. Certain aspects were missing to me. Members like Arabian Prince and others had no mention. The film jumps straight into Straight outta Compton without mention of the first effort "N.W.A and the posse album, which is available to hear. During a performance, the original version of Dope-man from said L.P. was performed rather than the Remix version available on the featured title. Small things like the World Class Wrecking Crew and things that led to the point in which the film highlights are absent. F.Gar Grey defiantly had his job cut out trying to give us all of the goods within an appropriate time span. All the small things aside as a lot of people aren't hip hop heads like myself, the major opinion from other reviews is the transition of the movie's plot. Characters like Suge Knight, Snoop Dogg, and even 2Pac seemed needless. Without spoiling the plot, there are a few minutes where information seems less important or unnecessary considering the intended story. Periods were you kinda wish they'd just move on come and go. Certain story lines aren't necessary and may dull the emotions being built up. For this reason, I gave it a 9. I don't say that to make anyone question seeing the movie though! If you've wanted to see the film for a reason or another, I highly recommend you do. The overall goal was achieved. The overall presentation is on point. This will make good money and most people will be pleased with their viewing. For all the hype over Suge Knight's reckless killing on the set to overall anticipation, the wait was worth it! I expected to possibly be let down and left feeling like I got what I asked for. Hopefully all parties involved were pleased with their portrayal. The effort is there and everyone who had a part in making this movie should be proud. Everyone who has a film made in their legacy should hope to have the same results.
Get Hard (2015)
Ehh.......It's Just OK
Do you love Kevin Hart and/or Will Ferrell? This show would seem to be a perfect story of roll on the ground laughs right? It's just OK. Some may not agree but, I call it like I see it. The previews make the plot simple. Rich Guy asks underling stereo typical Black Guy to teach him how to survive prison. The film then goes on a standard set of set ups leading towards the ultimate goal. There are a few laughs. I have been a little thrown off by all the "Penis" shots in movies as of recent. During a scene in the film, a situation occurs were a penis is shown more than once. Yeah....hilarious. To say this is the film I expected to see....I'd be lying. It wasn't bad! It was hilarious either. It was what I like to call a cookie cutter film. The previews show a lot of Clifford "T.I." Harris indicating there is a major role for him in the film. T.I. is in the film maybe 10-15 minutes.....towards the end of the movie. Punchlines aren't always bulls eyes. Some of the jokes seem last minute and fall short. Kevin does a decent job in his role. Will was OK. The problem to me leads to a question I have to ask...... Have Kevin Hart and Will Ferrell played their respective comedy cards too many times? I'll leave that to you to decide. Should you pay to see this in the theaters? Probably not. Maybe a matinée price. Would I suggest waiting the 3 months for the BluRay or digital release?....Yes. The film isn't bad but, isn't worthy of the steep price one pays to view in the first run houses. Money means more these days and knowing the wait (which isn't as long as it was before)is getting shorter til home release, I'd recommend waiting to enjoy this comedy when physical copy is available. Hope this is helpful!
Gone Girl (2014)
Great Movie with a Twist!!
I will start by saying this movie surprised me! My wife isn't a big Ben Afflick fan but, she wanted to see this movie. From the trailers, it looked like a play on the Casey Anthony Story but it's not. This story is a flipped upside down plot line that doesn't let up from the first 5 minutes if the picture. As an avid movie lover who's disappointment in current movie productions, I was glad to have not been told the entire plot in the previews. The twist was welcome and all the characters sold their specific angle. Without spoilers, this 2+ hour movie was a breath of fresh air. Well worth the matinée price let alone the $10-$12 dollar tag for peak viewing. Spend the money!! Its so worth it.
You're Next (2011)
OMG! This Movie was Terrible!
Maybe I'm too "Old School" Maybe my opinion sucks. Maybe i trusted Rotten tomatoes too much. Whatever the reason I decided to go see this movie, I was wrong. This is terrible! Classic Slasher my A#$! This is a horrible excuse for a Horror film or, Comedy. Laughable someone Bankrolled this. Excuse my language but, I haven't been this disappointed since Burt Wonderstone. Cheesy Plot of a family away in a cabin in the middle of no where for a Family Retreat. All these Snot nosed kids come out the wood works. A family game turns into a nightmare as arrows go whisking thru the windows. Saving you all some time, turns out the ungrateful brother of our story hires killers to take out his parent for ....wait for it....Inheritance!!!! Yes!! But, then the plot starts to turn as the typical brunette comes in her wife-beater dirty, still sexually appealing trying everything to make it. Typical crappy B Movie. Sound a little hostile? I am! I spent close to $40 to go see this CRAP because Critics Raved " Thrill ride of your Life!" Rolling Stone says "Must see of the Year!!!!!!" Crap. Most of the rehashed bullshit Hollywood keeps pumping out is a product of Lost Imagination. Today's Generation of Movie goers have been deprived of the mystery of the story anymore. Trailers give away the Plot, Climax and Resolution in the 2 1/2 min trailers.But even I didn't see this coming. I actually left in the final few minutes to go smoke a cigarette. I came back and my wife ask if we had to stay to finish. Horrible way to leave a theater. I'm not sure if Payola is a practice used in Movie Reviews but, it sure seems that way here. Over hyped film. Lackluster acting. Short comedic punches i guess but, not enough to repair the damage. It's just not believable. I hope you wait and save this for a free Redbox rental for a bored day. Should be a good conversation starter. If you like Movies that is.
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
One of the Best Movies Ever!
Wow! The general reaction to this movie. Frank Darabont brought Steven King's Short story to a whole new light. The cast as well as the general look of this film that makes is the classic that it is. Andy Dufrain (Tim Robbins) is accused and convicted of murdering his fiancé and her lover. Andy, the big city banker that was out of place immediately strikes a cord in Red (Morgan Freeman). The two form a relationship after a bet that didn't cash out for Red. The tale of Andy and his terrible beginnings at the Shawshank Prison is unsettling. Tim Robbin's look and performance is superb! His soft,smart demeanor is painted well. His relationship with Red is the meat of the film. Andy's defiant yet peaceful persona slowly mends in with the rest of the prisoners. The story couldn't have been told better. Morgan Freeman is the actor we know now because of this role. His dedication to his friend is undying. The thought of relationships like that make this movie so watchable. The fact that you can watch this over and over and not be distracted is it's own note. Most who collect movies have this title as a part of their collection. The story will be timeless because of the movie and cement Stephen King as not only a great Novelist but, amazing screenwriter. Everyone should watch this movie. The different feelings it invokes as well as the mystery that comes with the story are worth the Hour plus you spend. The problem is that the blueprints for movies like this aren't able to be written. That's why classics like this are far and few. Cinephiles would agree that the "Shawshank Redemption" is placed well at #1 on IMDb'S List.