Change Your Image
christianamdavis
Reviews
Christmas with the Campbells (2022)
Top notch Christmas romance movie
So, I actually really loved this movie. You have to go in with the expectations that this is a fun Christmas romance. But to me, this one actually had good acting and a story that didn't make me hate the antagonists (much). And I'm not going to lie, I was very skeptical in taking Justin Long seriously as a leading man in a romance, but I hate to say it, I was definitely won over by the end of the movie. It left me feeling all warm and fuzzy throughout the movie and that's exactly what I was looking for. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate classic Christmas romances but I will say this one is better quality than the hallmark ones. Plus my husband was courting me during the holidays so when I see genuine connection and 2 characters who care for each other and are not falling for every movie cliche, I can't help but love it. Give it a shot. Not everybody's cup of tea but it was definitely my cup of peppermint cocoa.
On Fire (2023)
How did I not know about this movie?
So I decided to go see a random non-franchise movie and this looked interesting. I was the only one in the theater which is sad but great for me bc I legit OPENLY SOBBED at how moving it was. It's a simple premise that personalizes a family conquering insurmountable odds. Script and acting had some great dialogue between action to make you truly connect with each character- nonfat to be trimmed imho.
I truly feel like the dynamics of the family- mom (8 months pregnant), dad, their teenager, and dad's father are relatable whether you have been in that exact position of relationships or not. The dad (Peter Facinelli) just embodied this character- the fear a father faces trying to protect his family while also trying to stay strong and hopeful for them. And the mother just embodies what women can and will do to keep their children safe. The teenage son shows vulnerability while also stepping up to the plate despite his fear.
I also love how they acknowledged the impact these disasters have on first responders. Can't get over how good this was. Highly recommend! Please go see it!
Promising Young Woman (2020)
One dimensional
First off, I think the marketing was misleading for this movie. After watching the trailer, both my husband and I thought it was going to be about a kickass woman who puts scumbags in their place. I really wanted to like this movie. But I felt like all of the characters were so one-dimensional. And I called out at least 3-4 things before they happened.
The protagonist seems to have an obsession with her best friend who she decides to avenge 7 years later. I mean, she dropped out of med school because her best friend dropped out of med school after a sexual assault. Even the victim's mother asks her to move forward with her grief.
She had the means to get justice in her hands by the 3rd act. But instead it seems like she actively planned for her disappearance. I think it's important to talk about this subject and how often perpetrators are not held accountable. But there was no arc for any of the characters and it left me feeling like the message was, all men have ill intent or are cowards and the ability to find meaning in life after trauma or grief is not attainable.
The Haunting of Bly Manor (2020)
I wanted to like this so badly
I wanted to like this show, and it had a promising start with an eerie first few episodes that kept me waiting for something big to happen. And then I just kept waiting and waiting, going to the next episode hoping there would be a payoff. Nope. The love story is lessened by a cringe-worthy script and the twist is just SO annoyingly unbelievable and boring. There are so many subplots the main story gets jumbled and it became almost frustrating to keep watching. They set so many things up and don't wrap any of them up to satisfaction. I really wanted to like it, and I get that some people might be into it. If you're into cinema at all as an art and not just popcorn entertainment, it's not for you. If you're the type who likes romantic comedies, this is probably a show you'd like.
Suspiria (2018)
Slow burn for a WTF moment
Apparently if you saw the original movie, this would be easier to understand. I didn't and it really left me feeling confused. The movie is ripe with creepiness, and it's a slow burn, aside from a really well-done scene during a dance routine that leaves you utterly in shock. If you like movies that have twists and leave a LOT unexplained, this might be the movie for you. The sub-plot of the psychotherapist is honestly irrelevant in my opinion but whatever.