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mrjohnwilliam
Reviews
Bottoms (2023)
Worse than bad
"Bottoms" is a cinematic catastrophe that plumbs the depths of tastelessness and insensitivity. The film's reckless portrayal of violence amongst teens is not only gratuitous but also deeply disturbing. Rather than addressing the serious issue of teen violence with any semblance of responsibility, it exploits it for shock value.
The characters are one-dimensional caricatures, lacking depth or development. Their dialogue is cringe-worthy, filled with clichés and shallow banter that fails to engage the audience. It's difficult to empathize with any of them when they're little more than cardboard cutouts.
The plot, if one can even call it that, meanders aimlessly, lacking coherence and direction. Scenes transition haphazardly, leaving viewers disoriented and disconnected from the story. There's a lack of meaningful storytelling, and the film fails to convey any significant message or moral lesson.
In conclusion, "Bottoms" is an abhorrent piece of cinema that fails on every conceivable level. Its gratuitous violence amongst teens, lackluster characters, and incoherent plot make it a regrettable and offensive viewing experience. Save your time and money, and choose a film that respects its audience and tackles important issues with care and responsibility.
Red, White & Royal Blue (2023)
Regal Romance Unveiled: 'Red, White & Royal Blue' Reigns
This light-hearted film goes beyond typical tales, exploring love and identity between the US President's son and a Prince in a fictionalised, modern British monarchy. Taylor Zakhar Perez and Nicholas Galitzine deliver strong performances, creating believable on-screen chemistry. Galitzine embodies Prince Henry's challenges with being gay in a monarchy steeped in heterosexual traditions, while Perez impresses as Alex, the US president's bisexual son, sharing his authentic journey.
The film navigates Alex and Henry's battles, showcasing their eventual transformation to proud and out advocates for love.
Uma Thurman adds depth as the US president, highlighting the importance of family support. The director blends humor, heartache, and hope. Though enjoyable, I felt a missed opportunity as Alex and Prince Henry could have shared a more meaningful moment on the Royal Balcony, with the crowd's support. Sadly, this touching scene felt cut short.
"Red, White & Royal Blue" promotes love and acceptance and leaves an inspiring message about the strength of love.
It's a Sin (2021)
Brilliant!
It would be a sin to miss this brilliant series. It tells a powerful and very honest story of a time many of us remember all too well. It made me angry at the injustice of the time (which still exists) and moved me to tears. A must see.
Breaking Fast (2020)
Excellent
A fantastic feel-good movie well worth watching. Funny, touching and enjoyable from beginning to end. It's so good to find a gay film with such a decent story, great acting and believable characters.
The Queen's Gambit (2020)
Tedious & Overrated
I don't understand all the 10's this series has received. It was tediously long and pointless. The main character did not "grow" throughput the entire series. Any (slightly) larger arcs in the plot were not explored with any depth. It may have made a better movie rather than a long winded series. I wonder if the book was as boring.
Mary Poppins Returns (2018)
Absolutely Brilliant!!
This film is wonderful from start to end. It doesn't try to mimic the first Mary Poppins, and it's a winner because of this. The musical numbers are sensational. I grew up with Mary Poppins and was thrilled that Emily Blunt made the role her own in this entertaining and moving sequel. I hope there'll be more magic to come.
Rendezvous in Chicago (2018)
The Longest Hour 😱
If this was supposed to represent the beginning, middle and end stages of relationships, it was poorly told . Unconvincing dialogue from start to end.
Hollywood (2020)
Excellent
I loved this series. A combination of part fiction, part fact, part fantasy in an alternate-reality of Hollywood in the 1940s. Well worth watching.