72 DAYS - 122 FILMS
february 23
february 24
february 27
february 28
march 1
march 2
march 3
march 6
march 7
march 8
march 9
march 11
march 12
march 13
march 15
march 16
march 18
march 19
march 20
march 22
march 23
march 28
march 29
march 31
april 2
april 4
april 5
april 8
april 12
This film has left me in tears, not in a few tears rolling down the cheeks, but a lot of tears and a choked up throat.
What a film, and what an ending. No, not just that - WHAT. A. MESSAGE. This is by far my favorite inspirational film.
The film gets to the deepest parts of your soul. It let’s you to think, to understand, how important it is to walk on the least trampled road; to select your own way. This film gives you an understanding of the fact that what is important, is not whether your paths are the same as other peoples, or whether you are intentionally searching for something special, but that it is absolutely necessary to only have your personal path, only your own persuasions and not to attempt to live under someone else’s “hand” and always worry about the fact that someone else will take care of you.
Striking finale. Splendid film, and excellent acting. The boys are very alive and natural in this film. It has everything; drama, comedy and a philosophical meaning…This is what I call real cinema.
The most deserving 10 I've given.
april 14
fun experience, planet terror is especially the most exciting. death proof dragged, only towards the end that stuff got my adrenaline going. kurt russell. man that ending is so true to how those movies ended.
dont..dont..dont. dont dont dont dont dont ! Edgar Wright totally got the trailer thing down, the look, the concept, the atmosphere, everything! I thought his was the best of them all. Eli Roth also got it down, Rob Zombie disappointed me I don't think he "got it" a 100%, but he tried. Machete is going to own as a flick.
april 15
Oh how painful - 80 minutes of pain I had to endure watching this trash. First time I see a Fulci flick, and something tells me everything else is as shit as this. But I'm still going to see the "talked about" Zombi, which is supposedly zombie exploitation (and I'm on my exploitation spree right now, so that one's on the list)
Trash, trash, trash, trash trashtrashtrashtrashtrash. Made me think of Cronos and how he has the endurance for crap movies.
april 17
pretty brilliant.
reminded me of 8 1/2 somewhat, with the concept of a "block" - except, this is better than 8 1/2.
8/10
april 18
april 23
The first in the 7-films saga of the assassin and his child wandering the Japanese country side, in feudal era. This is the first film that tells the story of Ogami Itto, the most fearsome samurai executioner to the shogun. Betrayed, and wanted he seeks revenge on everyone from his former clan who had tried to kill him.
If you're looking for a blood splattered samurai flick featuring revenge as the main entree for the plot, accompanied by awesome old school 70's swish-swoosh sword sound effects and badass zoom ins on characters faces as they deliver their lines -- this is for you. With the recent exploitation genre resurfacing, thanks to Rodriguez/Tarantino's Grindhouse...this film is the perfect dish to satisfy your exploitation cravings.
april 26
Second in the series, we follow the assassin now living on the countryside with his son. A hired killer, he is asked to protect a group that specializes in making Indigo dye from a clan that's trying to steal the secret process. Sending their three best hired 'swords' to do that job as well as assassinating the makers.
As Itto makes his way to the destination he was assigned, he meets an all woman assassin clan (Tarantino loves to borrow i think) that tries to kill him for other reasons (watch the movie)
blood splatter ensues, as well as the continuation of all the elements that makes kung fu exploitation films so dang AWESOME.
8/10 - sweetness towards the end.
april 28
3rd in the series, the continuous wandering through the countryside by our skilled assassin with his child in a cart. This time he's tortured, and beaten - volunteering to save a prostitute. Then he is hired to kill a betraying lord who has sold out his master and his clan in order to gain power.
A little less countryside wandering here than the previous 2, and more enclosed, especially towards the beginning -- the blood splatter (TM) is of course there. What else would the Lone Wolf & Cub series be without it??? As per usual, Itto stands up for the weak and fights for what's right as well as "walking the way of hell" with his son. (I love these two) Some nice swordfights, and a night attack of ninjas on Itto! Also that has got to be the best 'one man army' scene towards the end! Wow, who knew Itto has about 10 machine guns hidden in that cart! LOL 8/10 -- i don't think these movies will gain anything below 8, just too entertaining.
april 30
may 2
may 7
may 10
may 12
This time Itto goes up against a female assassin. I thought this film was actually less badass than the previous 3. This time the dialogue nor settings are as badass as before. I think they even cut back a bit on the "splatter" it's still there, but not to the excess like the previous 3 are. The beginning was promising but then it kinda went back and forth from ok to great again. it's still worthy film
7/10
may 13
hmm, actually really not all that bad. dont know what the reviews for this were but i was entertained. conveys the teen life pretty well. i thought they got the right director for this (coming straight from Thir3een) Ledger got it down good. not bad, i thought
7/10
this is a fairly unknown film as far as I know outside of France. Written by Luc Besson (which indeed has his trademarks) in this. The best description for this comes from a quote in the film. "The Japanese have the Seven Samurai, Americans - The Significant Seven, unfortunately we've got Seven Monkeys" This is an adrenaline infused film about seven friends who's idea of a great time is climbing high rise buildings. And a pretty awesome opening of it shows that (great stunts) the police department doesn't like it, so they've declared them menace to society. A boy with a weak heart is succumed to climb up a tree by two other youngsters, and when he does, he has a heart attack and falls to the ground. The Yamakasi feel guilty, and from there on...it's a fun ride.
This isn't the Seven Samurai, or The Magnificent Seven greatness, although the influence comes from those - it's only an entertaining movie that doesn't require you to think deeply about what's going on. All it wants you to do is just sit back and watch while you chew on your snacks in a dark room on a friday night. If you liked District B13 (another Besson) you would probably like this.
may 17
...My good NESS.
What the f%$$%k was THIS? what did I just watch? This is quite possibly the worst movie I have watched THIS year. I'm not the one to write rant reviews on movies I don't like, but this is just stupid. A sequel to the decent original french parkour film "Yamakasi" in the vein of "District B13", this one takes place in Bangkok...with all "seven" of these "new samurais" going there...for --- %$54 if I know what reason. Cos it's not explained. The beginning there's some brother and sister robbing a Triad tycoon's "Dragon" statue, then escape..then these Yamakasi come to Bangkok and somehow run into the triads and bla bla bla wtf? was going on?
Seriously, the first movie AT LEAST had a plot that made sense, this is just a series of multi storylines that make absolutely NO SENSE at all. Convoluted, confusing, RETARDED. Man, these guys REALLY had to have been paid a salary to reprise their roles for this shitfest. It's so stupid, I'm lost for words. I spent pretty much 80% of the movie laughing and scoffing at the stupidity of it. There's so much idiocy that it becomes unintentionally funny. One of them leaves to "find himself" going back to the temple somewhere in Bangkok, bla bla bla --- another meets up this chick who was seen in the beginning robbing that triad's statue, the other walks through the streets and sees a master training a group of students Thai Chi or whatever it was, then we see it cut to the Master and him practicing -- then cut later to him giving some sort of an "exam" to the master showcasing that he has "learned the skills that be!" whatever. It was so stupid.
Then at the end there's this huge battle between Triads, and they have a choice to get the hell out of there but all 7 of them and including the chick and the brother decide that they "must fight to prove something" whatever.
The only GOOD thing I can say about this is that some visuals saved it from me giving it a big fat 0.
2/10 and I'm being generous + thank your cinematographer, even he couldnt save it though.
Cub 5 - This one is back to basics. Unlike the disappointing 4th film, this one redeems itself storywise and content wise.
may 18
saw this last night with friends. well made, and involving, everything always seems to be happening, no slow, dragged moments. DiCaprio is a good actor, but that accent wasn't very good. I thought everyone did what they could do, a couple of things distracted or were "meh" for me - That's NOT how you shoot pictures Jeniffer, you close your left eye and focus not shoot with both your eyes opened. And Djimoun seemed to overact a few times.
It was interesting look at Sierra Leone, but definitely not Zwick's best, I thought The Last Samurai was really his best. Didn't like Glory all that much.
neil marshall is the one to watch out for, he IS the future of horror and with Dog Soldiers and The Descent he can prove that. Suspense is the main factor of all horror and this movie was all about it. Just like the cover quotes say this has a bit of Jaws, Aliens, and Predator - and I completely agree. Especially the Predator element in the first half was apparent. This movie was intense, well acted, and most of all well WRITTEN. A horror film would not be effective with a shitty script. What's cool about Neil Marshall's movies is that he can take on the whole "Splat Pack" combined and his movies will still be more badass and memorable because they don't rely on gore.
This one is back to basics. Unlike the disappointing 4th film, this one redeems itself storywise and content wise.
8/10
may 20
the last of the series, in which itto ogami finally confronts the yagyu clan that so eagerly wants him dead that they have sent every warrior of theirs to try and kill him. even though it is the last, the ending, while feeling like it was the closure, still ends a tad more like a cliffhanger. Not fully ending the adventure that was so grandiose throughout the series. This remains to have all the trademarks that made the rest so good and memorable; blood splatter, unique kills, fun swordfights, and music. The ending culminates at a snow capped mountain where the term "one man army" is the best description to Itto's side.
8/10
may 21
Rated 11th on Entertainment Weekly's Top 50 Cult Films list. This is a story about 5 deadly trained martial artists whose identity no one knew, not even the master, nor they themselves knew each other. Wearing masks, and specially trained in different style's they posessed skill no one else could match. The Centipede, The Snake, The Scorpion, The Lizard and The Toad.
Whoa. Didn't think I'd find a clever story in a martial art film. First SB film for me and something tells me I'll like the rest. Behind the slick characters lies an actually interesting and involving story about corruption, secretive identities and badazz fight choreography...accompanied by an actually cool score. You can call this a sort of a murder story noir meets martial art. Pretty slick stuff, don't miss out on this piece of celluloid - cause it's entertainment on a friday night.
8/10
Oh shiii.. I think I liked it a lot better than 5 Deadly Venoms -- not to say that, THAT movie was bad in any way, these are just slighly different plot points, because One Armed Boxer is pure 90 minutes of entertainment. Jimmy Wang Yu, so young and so talented, write, direct and star in his own movie. This baby spawned a sequel, Master of the Flying Guillotine which I hear is mad. If you like your dose of martial art without any hype, start with One Armed Boxer. You won't be disappointed.
another generous, slightly higher 8 from me.
may 22
Some call this one the superior sequel, and in a way it is - but not wholly. What made the One Armed Boxer so great is the continuous developement of something that's about to go down. It was like when you pressed play, it kept going until the end. The Master of the Flying Guillotine is a bit all over (at least how I saw it) The opening is not as fast as the One Armed Boxer and not as gripping but still interesting.
This time, One Armed Boxer has opened a new school, and in the beginning we see the Master of the Flying Guillotine, a blind badass who uses his senses for sight, and can jump up out of a house breaking the ceiling like one bad muhf(*43ka. He is the one who is on a journey to avenge his disciples from the first film who have sent him a message before they died. Meanwhile, a tournament is about to go down with fighters from all over Asia - during this fight the Master shows up, killing another one armed fighter (because he made a vow, even if it's not THE one armed boxer, whoever IS one armed, he will DIIIIIIE....lol) So, after all this the One Armed Boxer tells his students to lay low before he can think up a plan on how to get rid of this master. Indeed they do, and when they do - there's a harsh battle between one of the master's accomplices (also from a tournament) that's pretty gruesome and the ending battle between THE One armed Boxer AND the Master of the Flying Guillotine.
Despite some slow moments (the tournament scene) this one was entertaining, and it kept me involved throughout. Its' unique fighters and fight scenes were key in this type of film and thats what matters. However, I have to say something was missing that I was in the first movie - I can't quite tell what that spark was but this one is missing it.
7/10 - you'll be entertained if you love kung fu/martial art overall with over the top fight scenes and plot points (extending arms? awesome!)
weakest of the three, plagued by the blance of multiple characters with storylines. but nevertheless still entertaining. it's just that spidey 3 didn't feel like it had a real "structure" as opposed to 1, and 2. venom was seen only for a few minutes, and sandman didn't have much screentime. it was more about parker and watson - and their love. anyway. entertaining. so i'd give it an 8/10 for now.
may 30
If you feel like watching something along the lines of "Crank" (which I myself have not seen, but know what it's like) then this movie will be a perfect treat. Written by Luc Besson, this is 85 minutes of fast-paced action with energetic foot chases and the amazing art of "parkour" (look it up) complemented by a hip soundtrack with sweet electronic cues. You won't find Die Hard greatness, or else in this - but you will be entertained for 85 minutes if you are willing to let a somewhat cliche storyline/plot slide (although the concept of a closed off District is actually a fresh idea, I don't think I've seen it done in anything else, but then I don't remember) Just like the Besson written 2001 film "Yamakasi" this is a brainless and harmless action film that should be enjoyed by any fan of the action genre.
a decent 8/10. I dug it.
...WOW I think I'm speechless, but not entirely - because I have SO much to say about what I have just seen.
This movie is perfection. An absolute cinematic gold. I wish I could describe what I'm feeling right now...but you could go with a visual instead - I'm grinning like a madman. This is quite possibly the most entertaining 90 minutes I've sat through. From the three characters that I just fell in love with throughout the film and wanted to be real friends with, to the fast pace, memorable quotes, beautiful scenery, thrilling car chases that did not involve any projection, and cinematography --- in a GRINDHOUSE film. Think about it. This is a road movie, about people running from the law and yet, it is SO GREAT. Never in my wildest dreams would I think i'd like it so much. I started this movie with no pre conceived notions, or expectations. Just another grindhouse movie - but this movie kicked me in the ass. The colorful characters, and more specifically the chemistry between Mary and Larry was just priceless to watch. At time I had a stupid grin on my face just observing the two talk.
If you think I'm rambling, see it for yourself
and What. About. That. FREAKING. ENDING!
Gold. Simply Gold.
9/10 -- This is a high 9, quite possibly a 10. Perfect. Just perfect, loved this to bits.
Not as good as the first Hostel, once again, takes a while to "get to it" but you definitely learn a bit more how the 'cell' operates. I especially liked the "bidding war" scene, which gives you an idea of the scope of this thing. I think that the Hostel movies have an original concept, but the execution isn't a 100% success. I liked the character of Stewart, he was interesting to observe, and I'd like to learn more about him and his 'inner struggles' I also liked Todd, there was certainly something about them that made think about. Of course though, this movie has a lot of flaws, screenplay and character development isn't really present - you just learn a few things about them here and there, but when it comes down to the killin' you don't really care for them. I thought the first torture scene had some sort of suspense for sure, and a lot of disgust to it as it was sickening. Also another one I thought had some 'sick humor' in it, but in the end sort of 'kicked you in the nuts' "All fun and games until you [fill in for yourself]"
Yeah, this one was worse than the first, not to say that Hostel was greatness, it did, however contained suspense - but i wasn't a fan of the nudity (give me the fake plasma and good practical effects). But the last half of Hostel to me, was were it was at. Hostel 2 didn't have that suspense, and it's definitely an inferior "part 2". I did appreciate the fact that Roth tried to delve deeper into this network.
6/10
Cronenberg was truly the man of his time, and GENRE. I thought this was an interesting story, and concept. The way it began, and evolved, with the conversations between the doctor and the young scanner kept me interested, but as it went on it sort of became hard to believe how they got him to do the things the doctor asked...which became a tad unrealistic and laughable. Sometimes it dragged and I began to drift off - but for the most part, this film kept me entertained and when it was over the 1 hour and 40 minutes seemed to fly by.
7/10.
june 1
as I'm sure it's been mentioned numerous times - multiple viewings, and that's what i'm gonna do. As of what I thought, presently, without fully understanding its' various scenes and symbolisms. Absolutely touching. Made or should I say, created with utter brilliance, from the music, to the acting, to the lush visuals - this film is strong. I found myself being gripped by the performance of hugh jackman - who invoked emotion to run amok in me. This film has a strong theme, that I don't think has been explored on such a level before, whereas some films might make it subtle, this one is crystal clear.
9/10. Deserves the praise, certainly.
june 2
Fun, fun, and more fun..and then more fun. Haven't had the time to check out the critics reviews, or RT fresh-o-meter, or anyone else's thoughts and opinions on this one. But this baby had me at "hello". Hear's *groans* from everyone who read it. Really, I think this one is the most entertaining in the series. It's the most "grand" out of the three, it's adventure felt interesting to me, and its' many colorful characters, Sparrow, Barbossa, Davey Jones, Miss Swan, Turner...and Chow Yun-Fuckin'-FAT..with a badass scar for what time he has been given were all impressive. The POTC series are guaranteed entertainment, and a good escape from ordinary lives. Don't know what holds for the future of the series...as it definitely didn't feel like a final closure, but I'd be up for 'nother one. Beautiful to look at, and while I didn't really laugh at the humor, I was entertained just by observing it. I don't know what else can be said other than a simple summation of the fact that this is a perfect movie to catch in the theatre with a group of friends or family on a weekend. Because all it is, is a damn good ol' time. Great visuals, colorful characters, grand production, beautiful costumes, visual effects, music...and a fun adventure story.
9/10.
june 3
Never read the comics, so I don't know how faithful it is to them - but from a movie standpoint. Entertaining, and that's all it delivers. Almost makes me wonder why this wasn't a summer release, because really, it feels like a big blockbuster with visual fx to satisfy anyone. That said, don't know why they went with Nic Cage, especially if you compare the younger fella that plays Johnny Blaze in the beginning to him, they don't look like one person at all. So that was one nitpick. I liked the rooftop sequence, and the character of Ghost Rider is badasss. Sequels are a given, I think this is an interesting character.
7/10
june 4
Bizarre. And definitely 'artsy' for lack of a better word - well, we also can call that one "arthouse" i think that's better. Surprising for Cronenberg, as he strayed away from venereal horror and now focused on a different path. Can't say I loved the movie, or "liked" it, but I didn't hate it. A tad long, but all that aside..it carries a message, figure it out on your own I'm still analyzing the film. Some neat performances from Spader and Elias Koteas. I had to read Ebert's review after seeing this, and I think he's got it figured..he also says, you take away everything in this movie, and it becomes a porno flick. Yup, can't disagree with that man. Bizarre this one indeed.
7/10
june 6
Not much to say here, sort of a mad scientist movie this one. Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee together on screen. This movie isn't phenomenal horror, I think maybe if you're a 5 year old child you'd be scared since I found nothing to be scared of. Actually some impressive shots in this one. Story is 'ok' funny one liners that weren't intended to be funny in the first place. Nice ending though. One of those occasions that a movie is 'so bad it's good' - a good friday night flick when you're with friends.
6/10
The second feature from the Pate Brothers, first of which I did not see, and I read it was straight to video thus making Deceiver their 'first' theatrical release. This is a relatively under the radar neo noir film starring Tim Roth, Chris Penn, and Michael Rooker (and Michael Parks in a cool small role) I've seen this movie about 3 times now, third being last night and I have to say I still didn't completely get it. Despite the film's interesting and stylistic visual approach, and almost "I-think-Tarantino-wrote-this" dialogue, which is pretty great actually - this movie is too clever for its' own good. I think the plot is convoluted, and most of the time I had a hard time understanding some things. But, as JoBlo said it in his review..if you like your movies to make sense, you won't like it - but if you are willing to put your brain to work, it's for you. Definitely a kind of film that you'd be analyzing after you've seen it, talking amongst yourselves. Pretty intense acting from Roth, and Rooker, and the late Chris Penn proves he can act without cussing and dancing. This movie also feels like The Usual Suspects in noir.
7/10
june 8
Wow...this film depressed me. I literally feel like crying. I don't know what to say, this movie had such a profound effect on me with its' bleak atmosphere and heartbreaking story that it puts me in a very surreal kind of mood right now. Especially those last 20 minutes of the film were some of the best I've seen in movies. That emotional story Travis tells, which unravels into a deep and sorrow dialogue driven scene. The way Wim Wenders uses the camera, with least cuts and editing - sometimes even focusing on the person's face for more than a minute to show us how emotion changes on the characters face, I thought, was just astounding. And who would've thought the lovable Sam Shephard was behind the whole script of this film? I'm amazed. This film needs to be seen by everyone, we can start here. Social alienation is so depressing. Wonderful film, I'll be showing this to everyone I know. I can't praise this film enough. Really, watch this it's a very moving film.
9/10
...I dont know how to begin this blurb, so I'll just say what comes to mind first. Wow. Yes indeed, a very overused word - especially by me, but..wow. This exactly shows why classic movies of the past were and ARE so great. A combination of everything from the visuals, to the production, to the breathtaking acting by Kirk Douglas and to most importantly an amazing script. This film gripped me from the start and didn't let go until the end. Not a moment where I *sighed* or wanted to check the watch, because everything was perfectly executed - everything that makes a film, a TRUE film. What an achievement by Kubrick, I've only seen a few of his films (2001, FMJ, Dr. Strangelove) and thought they were all very well made, but this one is my favorite of what I have seen from him. It is no wonder why he is the most praised filmmaker of the 20th century, he's just GREAT.
That ending shows exactly the genius that is Stanley Kubrick, I could not hold back the tears, moving.
10/10
june 9
Decent, certainly better than Last House on the Left, in terms of filmmaking. Can't say I was 'scared', maybe if i was 5 years old. But being buried alive, certainly is fucked up. And the aspect of the 'whats real whats not' was decent. Some NOES, references in the end. Bill Pullman rocks.
6/10
june 10
Easily one of the best, if not the best action flicks of the '90's. From the start, until the end. it's an adrenaline infused rollercoaster ride. If you think you've seen the greatest action film and have not seen this...you BETTER get on it. Last time I have seen this film in its' entirety was almost 7 years ago, I saw it today..and it was even better this time.
9/10
june 11
june 12
H.P. Lovecroft is f'd up. The stories he wrote.
4 vignettes (one of which is all throughout the film shown between the rest 3) all directed by various directors, one of them who's Christophe Gans (Brotherhood of the Wolf, Silent Hill). All these short films are short stories by Lovecraft, the mastermind horror genius writer.
I'm not going to summarize you can check here for that.
I think this was decent horror, all stories were f'd up in their own way. The special effects here are old school and are effective, mostly in the last two stories where they were used to a particular limit. The last story was the most freaky out of all of them, and actually carried a message believe it or not.
7/10.
Here, Gore Verbinski shows that he can not only make movies about Pirates, but films actually about something. Totally dug this movie. To me, I think these are the kind of roles that suit Nic Cage best, family man, troubled man, etc. Not to say he should be typecast, saying that they just work for him out of everything else he's done (except The Rock, that rocked) Beautiful to look at, and provides an interesting inside look at a successful man without a successful family all due to his own self. At least that's what I got. But the movie definitely touches on a much deeper meaning when you analyze it, it's not just about a wealthy weather man with problems - it's a social commentary on the american culture. This also has strong ties with American Beauty.
8/10
june 13
an unconventional, black comedy with a sci-fi tinge...or vice versa. Beautifully photographed, and nice to look at. But...I had no idea what was going on, maybe I didn't catch on to something which resulted in me "getting lost" but the plot was all over the place, didn't understand why some of these characters did what they DID, or were presented as they were..symbolic? I don't know, but it's a confusing movie that may require one to use his brain a little bit harder when watching. Won't deny that this was refreshingly different, and original cinema that I've seen but again I can't say it's greatness. Somewhere in between.
7/10, maybe would've been higher if I knew wtf was going on.
Running at 75 minutes, pretty short, right? but the best thing about this movie is the pickpocketing scenes, everything else is sort of meh. Whatever Bresson was trying to get at in this movie - I didn't catch on to, the underlying message or theme of this movie was sort of unexistent in my eyes. Maybe there was none, maybe I'm looking into it too hard and can't see it. Maybe I should rewatch it.
Although a 7/10 it gets.
But all I know is that...
Marika Green = Natalie Portman
june 14
stephen king's adaptation about a dog that gets bitten by a bat and becomes rabid. that's all you need to know. 50/50 movie, first half introducing to characters and their unhappy marriage (a theme by the way) and second half is our demon dog from hell Cujo scaring the shits out of the mother and her son in the car. This is horror. I like getting scared.
7/10
june 15
What can I say, an impressive sci-fi film with a depressing mood. Beautifully everything. I think Danny Boyle is becoming one of my favorites. Spotted elements of Cube towards the end. But if you wanna compare this movie to another sci fi film (especially the last 20 mins) Event Horizon is the one. This movie definitely gets a lil' bit weird in those minutes.
8/10
june 17
haha, i love movies like this one, high school themed. And this one had so much humor in it too, that worked. Well narrated, acted, directed. And the way they made Reese Witherspoon such a bitch was fantastic. Such an entertaining film that would most likely hold up on repeat viewings. Great job Payne.
9/10
such anti-soviet union propaganda, fun montages though, and the training. semi-fun movie too, but it's bad, and its' porpagandistic views don't help either.
"If I can change, and YOU can change, den eeeeeeevaryboooody can chaaaange"
5ish./10
june 18
one of those classic fun horror films that you could watch more than once alone on a friday night or with a bunch of friends and have a laugh at its' (unintentional?) humor, although still it retaining the grossness of the traditional horror. For a few minutes I was saying to myself is that Elias Koteas? yes it is, young and with hair. Jeffrey Combs as Herbert West is gold, a Swiss with an American accent, not to mention his presence in the film overall is intense. Great stuff, of course nothing is perfect in the horror genre, so a couple plot holes here and there were met. But it makes up for horror-comedy, and the kickass THEME that I have now looped 3 times while writing this baby blurb. Where have I heard that theme before!?
7/10
june 21
spaghetti western grindhouse classic. a character who drags a coffin with him to wherever he goes played by Franco Nero, perhaps Italian's answer to The Man With No Name aka Clint Eastwood. Mysterious, sexay (for the ladies there..) and dangeroussss. And also dubbed by someone who sounds a LOT like Clint himself. This was a decent look inside the spaghetti western genre OTHER than Sergio Leone's films, so it's refreshing to see someone else take it on. As for the feature itself, It's short, but it's slow with the pacing resulting in some moments i didn't care for. One of those movies where the character makes the movie - without Django, this movie would be worthless. Franco Nero played his part well, I think he did his homework studying Clint.
6/10
june 22
- trademark Hitchcock spy thriller, about a worker at an air base who is blamed for the death of his friend during a sabotaged fire. From there on, he's chased by the cops and meets shady characters. A noticeable, almost too obvious theme of this film is about the greatness of america, and its' democracy. This is shown through the truck driver that helps him escape, a blind man who believes all men are innocent til proven guilty, and the man's daughter who believes in justice..etc.
40's, so you can expect the laughable, unintentional 'wooden' acting and comical line deliveries...man, especially that blind man who pretty much knew everything about the protagonist til he stepped into his house. That just made me LOL.
It dragged on though a bit for me, especially the circus segment that could've just been taken out - more 'america is great' scene.. i get it.
Then there's the climax that takes place during the Statue of Liberty, with the famous shot that's been copied in Die Hard, Batman, Last Action Hero.
5/10, not my favorite Hitchcock, but that is not to say I hated it. Rating speaks for itself, I think.
june 23
a terrifying look into alcoholism, director Mike Figgis shows just how scary this disease can be. There hasn't been a lot of cinema about it, we mostly see films about drug abuse and how addictive it is (Requiem for a Dream for instance). But now we know there is a movie about alcoholism and that it shows that not only drugs can be addictive and destructive. Nicolas Cage proves here that despite the majority of his films don't show his ability to act, Leaving Las Vegas is his epitome. Elizabeth Shue is the supporting actress, and it's nice to see that the Academy at least acknowledged her ability in LLV with a nomination. She is a strong act, and supports Nic Cage reasonably well. Mike Figgis shows us the reality of what one can do to himself and lose everything. The scenes where Cage is shaking in the mornings because he needs a fix are tightly directed and are intense, almost scary to watch. At times I said to myself "geez" Figgis really knows how to make his audience feel for the characters on screen by showing their imperfections; Cage - an alcoholic, Shue - a hooker. It's a very well made film, and worthy of the awards it receieved and worthy of any praise. But it's also a depressing film that leaves a mark.
9/10
june 25
shiii that's what I call cinema.
I can't remember the last time where I was absolutely mesmerized by a film. Lost Star manages to do just that. Sergio Castellitto is my new favorite Italian actor. Basic plotline is that, a chinese corporation buys parts of a factory from an Italian one, Castellitto plays an engineer that finds out those parts aren't perfect. When it's too late, he makes a trip to China himself to hand over a new perfected part. From there on he meets a girl who translated for the Chinese when they were in Italy, now she is fired because of the boss's disappointment with her translations during a scene in which Castellitto tries to explain that the parts are faulty. Now in China he tries to find a specific plant and asks her to be her translator. All things aside, because I could go on forever describing the plot this is pretty much a 'road trip' film..but it's much deeper, because throughout the film Vincenzo (Castellitto) learns about the Chinese culture, seeing how different it is from that of his; skyscraper apartments that include whole families living, children playing in factory areas, etc. All this is directed with utter professionalism and an understanding of the real world. It's a truly eye-opening film (at least to me it was) complimented with a beautiful, almost euphoric, ambient but subtle score. Beautifully photographed and well written. No excess BS here. It almost has a sad quality in its' atmosphere.
Just an overall truly GREAT piece of cinema. I've never seen Gianni Amelio's films, but this was enough for me to want to see what else he has made.
9/10 if not a perfect 10! that will remain to be seen on repeat viewings.
june 26
gotta spread the love for Hammer Horror. These flicks, there's something about them that's appealing. Maybe a combination of everything that makes a movie; acting, sets, music, etc..Or maybe it's just the presence of Peter Cushing. I'd call this one a bit mis-titled since there is no "revenge". Also a hammer horror without a plothole is nonexistant, so of course those were met. Everything else aside, a fun 90 minutes to kill. I didn't see the first movie, so I don't know how this stacks up to the original but..I can say it's got that 'Hammer formula' that is in what I'd guess many of the Hammer flicks. There are some unintentionally funny scenes, like the fight between some dude and the "Stein's creation". It's also funny how the 'flaw' is that he turns into a cannibal. Ah ha ha!
that's great.
7/10
june 27
Anyone who has seen at least one Jean-Pierre Jeunet film knows that he is a great visual storyteller and this film is not an exception. Visually beautiful, on a scale of epic proportions this film is about not giving up hope when everything else seems hopeless.
It's an unconventional kind of romance film with a tinge of The Notebook.
8/10
june 28
Boondock Saints is in the same vein of the previous works of Guy Ritchie and Quentin Tarantino - it's a mixture of characters, dialogue, humor, and content that were made famous by these two. I haven't seen a film like this before, which is why I can't comment on whether this is a fresh idea or not, but if there hasn't been anything like the plot of Boondock Saints before, then the idea is quite original. Good work by the two main leads Norman Reedus, and Sean Patrick Flanery where Reedus is the humor in contrast to Flanery's more serious take. Without Willem Dafoe, this movie wouldn't be anything - he's the glue, and what fun he's having playing his role!
I can't say I loved it, but I definitely enjoyed it and would gladly give this one a rewatch, this could perhaps be a film where the more you watch it, the more you appreciate what it is.
7/10 Decent entertainment.
june 29
saw this was on tv so I just gave it a rewatch. I know this movie receieved a lot of bs from everyone but I for one thought it was decent. Not a lot happening, only til the end..but my eyes did not tire of seeing Camilla Belle for all that time answering the phone a thousand times and being scared. Plus maybe it's only me, but I appreciated the film's atmosphere and how it was shot practicall all on soundstage, including the exterior. I guess it's the nostalgia in me. Love that slow mo shot of Scarface in the cop car.
610 - rewatchable and fun for what it's worth
man, I don't know if I should give this a rating as I sat through 2 hours of plot going over my head. Maybe the Coen's writing is just too smart for me, maybe it's cause i saw it late at night. Whatever the case - had no clue what was going on.. all I got was two rival gang leaders having a feud and Byrne's character in between all that. Other than that, it was decent, if only I knew what was going on.
based on true story, but you can't deny it feels like a 70's road exploitation movies. So, if you wonder what it's like if Spielberg made an exploitation film - then this is worth checking. But, it lacks something, there's not a lot going on in this film besides holding a patrol officer hostage in the cop car and running away from a stampede of cop cars. There's just no real character development which is why this movie didn't grab me as much. Now if you take a movie like Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry (also 3 people, pretty much same kind of plot) in contrast to Sugarland Express - Mary suceeds JUST because the characters are so likeable, and so developed. I understand this is based on true story, but that doesn't guarantee I'll like any movie on the basis of that fact.
6/10, still decent, maybe there's some sort of subtext in that cause it sure felt like it had something deeper than 3 people running from cops to get the baby from foster parents.
I didn't see the original, just the extended 133 minute version. With this movie in the bank, I have faith in Wiseman's future and DH4. Here lies an interesting concept of the war between Vampires and Werewolves - two horror mediums that nowadays or throughout the cinema history has been run into the ground. But Len does something interesting here, he brings them two together and creates a world reminiscent of The Matrix. The constant use of natural phenomena; thunderstorms and rain creates an atmosphere just right for the movie like this. Asides from the appealing visuals there's also an exciting story that captivated me until the finish. And then there's the lean 'n mean Kate/Selene (Shiiit that rhymed; "lean 'n mean Kate/Selene" haha) in tight leather that gives man 'lotta wood. A plus.
8/10
june 30
an alright "monster-animal" picture, nicely photographed. Takes a while to get going, but in the third act it gets interesting. Stiil, i had issues with the quick cutting - which got annoying during the action scenes. Not really scary, just semi-entertaining.
5/10
The most fun I've had at the movie theater this year, and maybe in a WHILE. If you're one of those who are turned off by the PG-13 rating - do yourself a favor and just IGNORE it. All it means is less McClane cursing like a sailor and the now infamous Yippie-ki-yay mother*gunshot*. The rest rings true to a Die Hard film. This reminded me a lot of Die Hard with a Vengeance. It had that same momentum and adrenaline; fast paced and exhilirating. McClane isn't "watered down" in any way AS a character. He posesses the same humor and wit as in the previous films. Despite what you may think of Justin Long, he's actually pretty OK in this movie and not as annoying as the trailers showed him to be. Len Wiseman does a great job of making this movie FEEL like it's part of the DH family and for that I salute him. I have to warn you though, that if your "movie standards" are HIGH, and you like to pick apart an action movie like THIS to such things as plot, and you question everything - you won't enjoy it. There's a few or maybe a lot (seriously there's not really TIME to question anything, you're immersed in the film that you forget everything and you just enjoy it) of plot holes involving the HOWS and the believability factor - you can kiss goodbye. A lot of sequences are pretty insane, but they're done not for the viewer to question why or how that happens but to boomblast your adrenaline to a dangerous high. This is why if you like your 'action' films to be grounded in a reality - you'll scoff at it. But if you go in there to just HAVE A GOOD TIME. This baby is a MUST SEE.
9/10.
P.S. See it with a big audience, prefereably.
february 24
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This film has left me in tears, not in a few tears rolling down the cheeks, but a lot of tears and a choked up throat.
What a film, and what an ending. No, not just that - WHAT. A. MESSAGE. This is by far my favorite inspirational film.
The film gets to the deepest parts of your soul. It let’s you to think, to understand, how important it is to walk on the least trampled road; to select your own way. This film gives you an understanding of the fact that what is important, is not whether your paths are the same as other peoples, or whether you are intentionally searching for something special, but that it is absolutely necessary to only have your personal path, only your own persuasions and not to attempt to live under someone else’s “hand” and always worry about the fact that someone else will take care of you.
Striking finale. Splendid film, and excellent acting. The boys are very alive and natural in this film. It has everything; drama, comedy and a philosophical meaning…This is what I call real cinema.
The most deserving 10 I've given.
april 14
fun experience, planet terror is especially the most exciting. death proof dragged, only towards the end that stuff got my adrenaline going. kurt russell. man that ending is so true to how those movies ended.
dont..dont..dont. dont dont dont dont dont ! Edgar Wright totally got the trailer thing down, the look, the concept, the atmosphere, everything! I thought his was the best of them all. Eli Roth also got it down, Rob Zombie disappointed me I don't think he "got it" a 100%, but he tried. Machete is going to own as a flick.
april 15
Oh how painful - 80 minutes of pain I had to endure watching this trash. First time I see a Fulci flick, and something tells me everything else is as shit as this. But I'm still going to see the "talked about" Zombi, which is supposedly zombie exploitation (and I'm on my exploitation spree right now, so that one's on the list)
Trash, trash, trash, trash trashtrashtrashtrashtrash. Made me think of Cronos and how he has the endurance for crap movies.
april 17
pretty brilliant.
reminded me of 8 1/2 somewhat, with the concept of a "block" - except, this is better than 8 1/2.
8/10
april 18
april 23
The first in the 7-films saga of the assassin and his child wandering the Japanese country side, in feudal era. This is the first film that tells the story of Ogami Itto, the most fearsome samurai executioner to the shogun. Betrayed, and wanted he seeks revenge on everyone from his former clan who had tried to kill him.
If you're looking for a blood splattered samurai flick featuring revenge as the main entree for the plot, accompanied by awesome old school 70's swish-swoosh sword sound effects and badass zoom ins on characters faces as they deliver their lines -- this is for you. With the recent exploitation genre resurfacing, thanks to Rodriguez/Tarantino's Grindhouse...this film is the perfect dish to satisfy your exploitation cravings.
april 26
Second in the series, we follow the assassin now living on the countryside with his son. A hired killer, he is asked to protect a group that specializes in making Indigo dye from a clan that's trying to steal the secret process. Sending their three best hired 'swords' to do that job as well as assassinating the makers.
As Itto makes his way to the destination he was assigned, he meets an all woman assassin clan (Tarantino loves to borrow i think) that tries to kill him for other reasons (watch the movie)
blood splatter ensues, as well as the continuation of all the elements that makes kung fu exploitation films so dang AWESOME.
8/10 - sweetness towards the end.
april 28
3rd in the series, the continuous wandering through the countryside by our skilled assassin with his child in a cart. This time he's tortured, and beaten - volunteering to save a prostitute. Then he is hired to kill a betraying lord who has sold out his master and his clan in order to gain power.
A little less countryside wandering here than the previous 2, and more enclosed, especially towards the beginning -- the blood splatter (TM) is of course there. What else would the Lone Wolf & Cub series be without it??? As per usual, Itto stands up for the weak and fights for what's right as well as "walking the way of hell" with his son. (I love these two) Some nice swordfights, and a night attack of ninjas on Itto! Also that has got to be the best 'one man army' scene towards the end! Wow, who knew Itto has about 10 machine guns hidden in that cart! LOL 8/10 -- i don't think these movies will gain anything below 8, just too entertaining.
april 30
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This time Itto goes up against a female assassin. I thought this film was actually less badass than the previous 3. This time the dialogue nor settings are as badass as before. I think they even cut back a bit on the "splatter" it's still there, but not to the excess like the previous 3 are. The beginning was promising but then it kinda went back and forth from ok to great again. it's still worthy film
7/10
may 13
hmm, actually really not all that bad. dont know what the reviews for this were but i was entertained. conveys the teen life pretty well. i thought they got the right director for this (coming straight from Thir3een) Ledger got it down good. not bad, i thought
7/10
this is a fairly unknown film as far as I know outside of France. Written by Luc Besson (which indeed has his trademarks) in this. The best description for this comes from a quote in the film. "The Japanese have the Seven Samurai, Americans - The Significant Seven, unfortunately we've got Seven Monkeys" This is an adrenaline infused film about seven friends who's idea of a great time is climbing high rise buildings. And a pretty awesome opening of it shows that (great stunts) the police department doesn't like it, so they've declared them menace to society. A boy with a weak heart is succumed to climb up a tree by two other youngsters, and when he does, he has a heart attack and falls to the ground. The Yamakasi feel guilty, and from there on...it's a fun ride.
This isn't the Seven Samurai, or The Magnificent Seven greatness, although the influence comes from those - it's only an entertaining movie that doesn't require you to think deeply about what's going on. All it wants you to do is just sit back and watch while you chew on your snacks in a dark room on a friday night. If you liked District B13 (another Besson) you would probably like this.
may 17
...My good NESS.
What the f%$$%k was THIS? what did I just watch? This is quite possibly the worst movie I have watched THIS year. I'm not the one to write rant reviews on movies I don't like, but this is just stupid. A sequel to the decent original french parkour film "Yamakasi" in the vein of "District B13", this one takes place in Bangkok...with all "seven" of these "new samurais" going there...for --- %$54 if I know what reason. Cos it's not explained. The beginning there's some brother and sister robbing a Triad tycoon's "Dragon" statue, then escape..then these Yamakasi come to Bangkok and somehow run into the triads and bla bla bla wtf? was going on?
Seriously, the first movie AT LEAST had a plot that made sense, this is just a series of multi storylines that make absolutely NO SENSE at all. Convoluted, confusing, RETARDED. Man, these guys REALLY had to have been paid a salary to reprise their roles for this shitfest. It's so stupid, I'm lost for words. I spent pretty much 80% of the movie laughing and scoffing at the stupidity of it. There's so much idiocy that it becomes unintentionally funny. One of them leaves to "find himself" going back to the temple somewhere in Bangkok, bla bla bla --- another meets up this chick who was seen in the beginning robbing that triad's statue, the other walks through the streets and sees a master training a group of students Thai Chi or whatever it was, then we see it cut to the Master and him practicing -- then cut later to him giving some sort of an "exam" to the master showcasing that he has "learned the skills that be!" whatever. It was so stupid.
Then at the end there's this huge battle between Triads, and they have a choice to get the hell out of there but all 7 of them and including the chick and the brother decide that they "must fight to prove something" whatever.
The only GOOD thing I can say about this is that some visuals saved it from me giving it a big fat 0.
2/10 and I'm being generous + thank your cinematographer, even he couldnt save it though.
Cub 5 - This one is back to basics. Unlike the disappointing 4th film, this one redeems itself storywise and content wise.
may 18
saw this last night with friends. well made, and involving, everything always seems to be happening, no slow, dragged moments. DiCaprio is a good actor, but that accent wasn't very good. I thought everyone did what they could do, a couple of things distracted or were "meh" for me - That's NOT how you shoot pictures Jeniffer, you close your left eye and focus not shoot with both your eyes opened. And Djimoun seemed to overact a few times.
It was interesting look at Sierra Leone, but definitely not Zwick's best, I thought The Last Samurai was really his best. Didn't like Glory all that much.
neil marshall is the one to watch out for, he IS the future of horror and with Dog Soldiers and The Descent he can prove that. Suspense is the main factor of all horror and this movie was all about it. Just like the cover quotes say this has a bit of Jaws, Aliens, and Predator - and I completely agree. Especially the Predator element in the first half was apparent. This movie was intense, well acted, and most of all well WRITTEN. A horror film would not be effective with a shitty script. What's cool about Neil Marshall's movies is that he can take on the whole "Splat Pack" combined and his movies will still be more badass and memorable because they don't rely on gore.
This one is back to basics. Unlike the disappointing 4th film, this one redeems itself storywise and content wise.
8/10
may 20
the last of the series, in which itto ogami finally confronts the yagyu clan that so eagerly wants him dead that they have sent every warrior of theirs to try and kill him. even though it is the last, the ending, while feeling like it was the closure, still ends a tad more like a cliffhanger. Not fully ending the adventure that was so grandiose throughout the series. This remains to have all the trademarks that made the rest so good and memorable; blood splatter, unique kills, fun swordfights, and music. The ending culminates at a snow capped mountain where the term "one man army" is the best description to Itto's side.
8/10
may 21
Rated 11th on Entertainment Weekly's Top 50 Cult Films list. This is a story about 5 deadly trained martial artists whose identity no one knew, not even the master, nor they themselves knew each other. Wearing masks, and specially trained in different style's they posessed skill no one else could match. The Centipede, The Snake, The Scorpion, The Lizard and The Toad.
Whoa. Didn't think I'd find a clever story in a martial art film. First SB film for me and something tells me I'll like the rest. Behind the slick characters lies an actually interesting and involving story about corruption, secretive identities and badazz fight choreography...accompanied by an actually cool score. You can call this a sort of a murder story noir meets martial art. Pretty slick stuff, don't miss out on this piece of celluloid - cause it's entertainment on a friday night.
8/10
Oh shiii.. I think I liked it a lot better than 5 Deadly Venoms -- not to say that, THAT movie was bad in any way, these are just slighly different plot points, because One Armed Boxer is pure 90 minutes of entertainment. Jimmy Wang Yu, so young and so talented, write, direct and star in his own movie. This baby spawned a sequel, Master of the Flying Guillotine which I hear is mad. If you like your dose of martial art without any hype, start with One Armed Boxer. You won't be disappointed.
another generous, slightly higher 8 from me.
may 22
Some call this one the superior sequel, and in a way it is - but not wholly. What made the One Armed Boxer so great is the continuous developement of something that's about to go down. It was like when you pressed play, it kept going until the end. The Master of the Flying Guillotine is a bit all over (at least how I saw it) The opening is not as fast as the One Armed Boxer and not as gripping but still interesting.
This time, One Armed Boxer has opened a new school, and in the beginning we see the Master of the Flying Guillotine, a blind badass who uses his senses for sight, and can jump up out of a house breaking the ceiling like one bad muhf(*43ka. He is the one who is on a journey to avenge his disciples from the first film who have sent him a message before they died. Meanwhile, a tournament is about to go down with fighters from all over Asia - during this fight the Master shows up, killing another one armed fighter (because he made a vow, even if it's not THE one armed boxer, whoever IS one armed, he will DIIIIIIE....lol) So, after all this the One Armed Boxer tells his students to lay low before he can think up a plan on how to get rid of this master. Indeed they do, and when they do - there's a harsh battle between one of the master's accomplices (also from a tournament) that's pretty gruesome and the ending battle between THE One armed Boxer AND the Master of the Flying Guillotine.
Despite some slow moments (the tournament scene) this one was entertaining, and it kept me involved throughout. Its' unique fighters and fight scenes were key in this type of film and thats what matters. However, I have to say something was missing that I was in the first movie - I can't quite tell what that spark was but this one is missing it.
7/10 - you'll be entertained if you love kung fu/martial art overall with over the top fight scenes and plot points (extending arms? awesome!)
weakest of the three, plagued by the blance of multiple characters with storylines. but nevertheless still entertaining. it's just that spidey 3 didn't feel like it had a real "structure" as opposed to 1, and 2. venom was seen only for a few minutes, and sandman didn't have much screentime. it was more about parker and watson - and their love. anyway. entertaining. so i'd give it an 8/10 for now.
may 30
If you feel like watching something along the lines of "Crank" (which I myself have not seen, but know what it's like) then this movie will be a perfect treat. Written by Luc Besson, this is 85 minutes of fast-paced action with energetic foot chases and the amazing art of "parkour" (look it up) complemented by a hip soundtrack with sweet electronic cues. You won't find Die Hard greatness, or else in this - but you will be entertained for 85 minutes if you are willing to let a somewhat cliche storyline/plot slide (although the concept of a closed off District is actually a fresh idea, I don't think I've seen it done in anything else, but then I don't remember) Just like the Besson written 2001 film "Yamakasi" this is a brainless and harmless action film that should be enjoyed by any fan of the action genre.
a decent 8/10. I dug it.
...WOW I think I'm speechless, but not entirely - because I have SO much to say about what I have just seen.
This movie is perfection. An absolute cinematic gold. I wish I could describe what I'm feeling right now...but you could go with a visual instead - I'm grinning like a madman. This is quite possibly the most entertaining 90 minutes I've sat through. From the three characters that I just fell in love with throughout the film and wanted to be real friends with, to the fast pace, memorable quotes, beautiful scenery, thrilling car chases that did not involve any projection, and cinematography --- in a GRINDHOUSE film. Think about it. This is a road movie, about people running from the law and yet, it is SO GREAT. Never in my wildest dreams would I think i'd like it so much. I started this movie with no pre conceived notions, or expectations. Just another grindhouse movie - but this movie kicked me in the ass. The colorful characters, and more specifically the chemistry between Mary and Larry was just priceless to watch. At time I had a stupid grin on my face just observing the two talk.
If you think I'm rambling, see it for yourself
and What. About. That. FREAKING. ENDING!
Gold. Simply Gold.
9/10 -- This is a high 9, quite possibly a 10. Perfect. Just perfect, loved this to bits.
Not as good as the first Hostel, once again, takes a while to "get to it" but you definitely learn a bit more how the 'cell' operates. I especially liked the "bidding war" scene, which gives you an idea of the scope of this thing. I think that the Hostel movies have an original concept, but the execution isn't a 100% success. I liked the character of Stewart, he was interesting to observe, and I'd like to learn more about him and his 'inner struggles' I also liked Todd, there was certainly something about them that made think about. Of course though, this movie has a lot of flaws, screenplay and character development isn't really present - you just learn a few things about them here and there, but when it comes down to the killin' you don't really care for them. I thought the first torture scene had some sort of suspense for sure, and a lot of disgust to it as it was sickening. Also another one I thought had some 'sick humor' in it, but in the end sort of 'kicked you in the nuts' "All fun and games until you [fill in for yourself]"
Yeah, this one was worse than the first, not to say that Hostel was greatness, it did, however contained suspense - but i wasn't a fan of the nudity (give me the fake plasma and good practical effects). But the last half of Hostel to me, was were it was at. Hostel 2 didn't have that suspense, and it's definitely an inferior "part 2". I did appreciate the fact that Roth tried to delve deeper into this network.
6/10
Cronenberg was truly the man of his time, and GENRE. I thought this was an interesting story, and concept. The way it began, and evolved, with the conversations between the doctor and the young scanner kept me interested, but as it went on it sort of became hard to believe how they got him to do the things the doctor asked...which became a tad unrealistic and laughable. Sometimes it dragged and I began to drift off - but for the most part, this film kept me entertained and when it was over the 1 hour and 40 minutes seemed to fly by.
7/10.
june 1
as I'm sure it's been mentioned numerous times - multiple viewings, and that's what i'm gonna do. As of what I thought, presently, without fully understanding its' various scenes and symbolisms. Absolutely touching. Made or should I say, created with utter brilliance, from the music, to the acting, to the lush visuals - this film is strong. I found myself being gripped by the performance of hugh jackman - who invoked emotion to run amok in me. This film has a strong theme, that I don't think has been explored on such a level before, whereas some films might make it subtle, this one is crystal clear.
9/10. Deserves the praise, certainly.
june 2
Fun, fun, and more fun..and then more fun. Haven't had the time to check out the critics reviews, or RT fresh-o-meter, or anyone else's thoughts and opinions on this one. But this baby had me at "hello". Hear's *groans* from everyone who read it. Really, I think this one is the most entertaining in the series. It's the most "grand" out of the three, it's adventure felt interesting to me, and its' many colorful characters, Sparrow, Barbossa, Davey Jones, Miss Swan, Turner...and Chow Yun-Fuckin'-FAT..with a badass scar for what time he has been given were all impressive. The POTC series are guaranteed entertainment, and a good escape from ordinary lives. Don't know what holds for the future of the series...as it definitely didn't feel like a final closure, but I'd be up for 'nother one. Beautiful to look at, and while I didn't really laugh at the humor, I was entertained just by observing it. I don't know what else can be said other than a simple summation of the fact that this is a perfect movie to catch in the theatre with a group of friends or family on a weekend. Because all it is, is a damn good ol' time. Great visuals, colorful characters, grand production, beautiful costumes, visual effects, music...and a fun adventure story.
9/10.
june 3
Never read the comics, so I don't know how faithful it is to them - but from a movie standpoint. Entertaining, and that's all it delivers. Almost makes me wonder why this wasn't a summer release, because really, it feels like a big blockbuster with visual fx to satisfy anyone. That said, don't know why they went with Nic Cage, especially if you compare the younger fella that plays Johnny Blaze in the beginning to him, they don't look like one person at all. So that was one nitpick. I liked the rooftop sequence, and the character of Ghost Rider is badasss. Sequels are a given, I think this is an interesting character.
7/10
june 4
Bizarre. And definitely 'artsy' for lack of a better word - well, we also can call that one "arthouse" i think that's better. Surprising for Cronenberg, as he strayed away from venereal horror and now focused on a different path. Can't say I loved the movie, or "liked" it, but I didn't hate it. A tad long, but all that aside..it carries a message, figure it out on your own I'm still analyzing the film. Some neat performances from Spader and Elias Koteas. I had to read Ebert's review after seeing this, and I think he's got it figured..he also says, you take away everything in this movie, and it becomes a porno flick. Yup, can't disagree with that man. Bizarre this one indeed.
7/10
june 6
Not much to say here, sort of a mad scientist movie this one. Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee together on screen. This movie isn't phenomenal horror, I think maybe if you're a 5 year old child you'd be scared since I found nothing to be scared of. Actually some impressive shots in this one. Story is 'ok' funny one liners that weren't intended to be funny in the first place. Nice ending though. One of those occasions that a movie is 'so bad it's good' - a good friday night flick when you're with friends.
6/10
The second feature from the Pate Brothers, first of which I did not see, and I read it was straight to video thus making Deceiver their 'first' theatrical release. This is a relatively under the radar neo noir film starring Tim Roth, Chris Penn, and Michael Rooker (and Michael Parks in a cool small role) I've seen this movie about 3 times now, third being last night and I have to say I still didn't completely get it. Despite the film's interesting and stylistic visual approach, and almost "I-think-Tarantino-wrote-this" dialogue, which is pretty great actually - this movie is too clever for its' own good. I think the plot is convoluted, and most of the time I had a hard time understanding some things. But, as JoBlo said it in his review..if you like your movies to make sense, you won't like it - but if you are willing to put your brain to work, it's for you. Definitely a kind of film that you'd be analyzing after you've seen it, talking amongst yourselves. Pretty intense acting from Roth, and Rooker, and the late Chris Penn proves he can act without cussing and dancing. This movie also feels like The Usual Suspects in noir.
7/10
june 8
Wow...this film depressed me. I literally feel like crying. I don't know what to say, this movie had such a profound effect on me with its' bleak atmosphere and heartbreaking story that it puts me in a very surreal kind of mood right now. Especially those last 20 minutes of the film were some of the best I've seen in movies. That emotional story Travis tells, which unravels into a deep and sorrow dialogue driven scene. The way Wim Wenders uses the camera, with least cuts and editing - sometimes even focusing on the person's face for more than a minute to show us how emotion changes on the characters face, I thought, was just astounding. And who would've thought the lovable Sam Shephard was behind the whole script of this film? I'm amazed. This film needs to be seen by everyone, we can start here. Social alienation is so depressing. Wonderful film, I'll be showing this to everyone I know. I can't praise this film enough. Really, watch this it's a very moving film.
9/10
...I dont know how to begin this blurb, so I'll just say what comes to mind first. Wow. Yes indeed, a very overused word - especially by me, but..wow. This exactly shows why classic movies of the past were and ARE so great. A combination of everything from the visuals, to the production, to the breathtaking acting by Kirk Douglas and to most importantly an amazing script. This film gripped me from the start and didn't let go until the end. Not a moment where I *sighed* or wanted to check the watch, because everything was perfectly executed - everything that makes a film, a TRUE film. What an achievement by Kubrick, I've only seen a few of his films (2001, FMJ, Dr. Strangelove) and thought they were all very well made, but this one is my favorite of what I have seen from him. It is no wonder why he is the most praised filmmaker of the 20th century, he's just GREAT.
That ending shows exactly the genius that is Stanley Kubrick, I could not hold back the tears, moving.
10/10
june 9
Decent, certainly better than Last House on the Left, in terms of filmmaking. Can't say I was 'scared', maybe if i was 5 years old. But being buried alive, certainly is fucked up. And the aspect of the 'whats real whats not' was decent. Some NOES, references in the end. Bill Pullman rocks.
6/10
june 10
Easily one of the best, if not the best action flicks of the '90's. From the start, until the end. it's an adrenaline infused rollercoaster ride. If you think you've seen the greatest action film and have not seen this...you BETTER get on it. Last time I have seen this film in its' entirety was almost 7 years ago, I saw it today..and it was even better this time.
9/10
june 11
june 12
H.P. Lovecroft is f'd up. The stories he wrote.
4 vignettes (one of which is all throughout the film shown between the rest 3) all directed by various directors, one of them who's Christophe Gans (Brotherhood of the Wolf, Silent Hill). All these short films are short stories by Lovecraft, the mastermind horror genius writer.
I'm not going to summarize you can check here for that.
I think this was decent horror, all stories were f'd up in their own way. The special effects here are old school and are effective, mostly in the last two stories where they were used to a particular limit. The last story was the most freaky out of all of them, and actually carried a message believe it or not.
7/10.
Here, Gore Verbinski shows that he can not only make movies about Pirates, but films actually about something. Totally dug this movie. To me, I think these are the kind of roles that suit Nic Cage best, family man, troubled man, etc. Not to say he should be typecast, saying that they just work for him out of everything else he's done (except The Rock, that rocked) Beautiful to look at, and provides an interesting inside look at a successful man without a successful family all due to his own self. At least that's what I got. But the movie definitely touches on a much deeper meaning when you analyze it, it's not just about a wealthy weather man with problems - it's a social commentary on the american culture. This also has strong ties with American Beauty.
8/10
june 13
an unconventional, black comedy with a sci-fi tinge...or vice versa. Beautifully photographed, and nice to look at. But...I had no idea what was going on, maybe I didn't catch on to something which resulted in me "getting lost" but the plot was all over the place, didn't understand why some of these characters did what they DID, or were presented as they were..symbolic? I don't know, but it's a confusing movie that may require one to use his brain a little bit harder when watching. Won't deny that this was refreshingly different, and original cinema that I've seen but again I can't say it's greatness. Somewhere in between.
7/10, maybe would've been higher if I knew wtf was going on.
Running at 75 minutes, pretty short, right? but the best thing about this movie is the pickpocketing scenes, everything else is sort of meh. Whatever Bresson was trying to get at in this movie - I didn't catch on to, the underlying message or theme of this movie was sort of unexistent in my eyes. Maybe there was none, maybe I'm looking into it too hard and can't see it. Maybe I should rewatch it.
Although a 7/10 it gets.
But all I know is that...
Marika Green = Natalie Portman
june 14
stephen king's adaptation about a dog that gets bitten by a bat and becomes rabid. that's all you need to know. 50/50 movie, first half introducing to characters and their unhappy marriage (a theme by the way) and second half is our demon dog from hell Cujo scaring the shits out of the mother and her son in the car. This is horror. I like getting scared.
7/10
june 15
What can I say, an impressive sci-fi film with a depressing mood. Beautifully everything. I think Danny Boyle is becoming one of my favorites. Spotted elements of Cube towards the end. But if you wanna compare this movie to another sci fi film (especially the last 20 mins) Event Horizon is the one. This movie definitely gets a lil' bit weird in those minutes.
8/10
june 17
haha, i love movies like this one, high school themed. And this one had so much humor in it too, that worked. Well narrated, acted, directed. And the way they made Reese Witherspoon such a bitch was fantastic. Such an entertaining film that would most likely hold up on repeat viewings. Great job Payne.
9/10
such anti-soviet union propaganda, fun montages though, and the training. semi-fun movie too, but it's bad, and its' porpagandistic views don't help either.
"If I can change, and YOU can change, den eeeeeeevaryboooody can chaaaange"
5ish./10
june 18
one of those classic fun horror films that you could watch more than once alone on a friday night or with a bunch of friends and have a laugh at its' (unintentional?) humor, although still it retaining the grossness of the traditional horror. For a few minutes I was saying to myself is that Elias Koteas? yes it is, young and with hair. Jeffrey Combs as Herbert West is gold, a Swiss with an American accent, not to mention his presence in the film overall is intense. Great stuff, of course nothing is perfect in the horror genre, so a couple plot holes here and there were met. But it makes up for horror-comedy, and the kickass THEME that I have now looped 3 times while writing this baby blurb. Where have I heard that theme before!?
7/10
june 21
spaghetti western grindhouse classic. a character who drags a coffin with him to wherever he goes played by Franco Nero, perhaps Italian's answer to The Man With No Name aka Clint Eastwood. Mysterious, sexay (for the ladies there..) and dangeroussss. And also dubbed by someone who sounds a LOT like Clint himself. This was a decent look inside the spaghetti western genre OTHER than Sergio Leone's films, so it's refreshing to see someone else take it on. As for the feature itself, It's short, but it's slow with the pacing resulting in some moments i didn't care for. One of those movies where the character makes the movie - without Django, this movie would be worthless. Franco Nero played his part well, I think he did his homework studying Clint.
6/10
june 22
- trademark Hitchcock spy thriller, about a worker at an air base who is blamed for the death of his friend during a sabotaged fire. From there on, he's chased by the cops and meets shady characters. A noticeable, almost too obvious theme of this film is about the greatness of america, and its' democracy. This is shown through the truck driver that helps him escape, a blind man who believes all men are innocent til proven guilty, and the man's daughter who believes in justice..etc.
40's, so you can expect the laughable, unintentional 'wooden' acting and comical line deliveries...man, especially that blind man who pretty much knew everything about the protagonist til he stepped into his house. That just made me LOL.
It dragged on though a bit for me, especially the circus segment that could've just been taken out - more 'america is great' scene.. i get it.
Then there's the climax that takes place during the Statue of Liberty, with the famous shot that's been copied in Die Hard, Batman, Last Action Hero.
5/10, not my favorite Hitchcock, but that is not to say I hated it. Rating speaks for itself, I think.
june 23
a terrifying look into alcoholism, director Mike Figgis shows just how scary this disease can be. There hasn't been a lot of cinema about it, we mostly see films about drug abuse and how addictive it is (Requiem for a Dream for instance). But now we know there is a movie about alcoholism and that it shows that not only drugs can be addictive and destructive. Nicolas Cage proves here that despite the majority of his films don't show his ability to act, Leaving Las Vegas is his epitome. Elizabeth Shue is the supporting actress, and it's nice to see that the Academy at least acknowledged her ability in LLV with a nomination. She is a strong act, and supports Nic Cage reasonably well. Mike Figgis shows us the reality of what one can do to himself and lose everything. The scenes where Cage is shaking in the mornings because he needs a fix are tightly directed and are intense, almost scary to watch. At times I said to myself "geez" Figgis really knows how to make his audience feel for the characters on screen by showing their imperfections; Cage - an alcoholic, Shue - a hooker. It's a very well made film, and worthy of the awards it receieved and worthy of any praise. But it's also a depressing film that leaves a mark.
9/10
june 25
shiii that's what I call cinema.
I can't remember the last time where I was absolutely mesmerized by a film. Lost Star manages to do just that. Sergio Castellitto is my new favorite Italian actor. Basic plotline is that, a chinese corporation buys parts of a factory from an Italian one, Castellitto plays an engineer that finds out those parts aren't perfect. When it's too late, he makes a trip to China himself to hand over a new perfected part. From there on he meets a girl who translated for the Chinese when they were in Italy, now she is fired because of the boss's disappointment with her translations during a scene in which Castellitto tries to explain that the parts are faulty. Now in China he tries to find a specific plant and asks her to be her translator. All things aside, because I could go on forever describing the plot this is pretty much a 'road trip' film..but it's much deeper, because throughout the film Vincenzo (Castellitto) learns about the Chinese culture, seeing how different it is from that of his; skyscraper apartments that include whole families living, children playing in factory areas, etc. All this is directed with utter professionalism and an understanding of the real world. It's a truly eye-opening film (at least to me it was) complimented with a beautiful, almost euphoric, ambient but subtle score. Beautifully photographed and well written. No excess BS here. It almost has a sad quality in its' atmosphere.
Just an overall truly GREAT piece of cinema. I've never seen Gianni Amelio's films, but this was enough for me to want to see what else he has made.
9/10 if not a perfect 10! that will remain to be seen on repeat viewings.
june 26
gotta spread the love for Hammer Horror. These flicks, there's something about them that's appealing. Maybe a combination of everything that makes a movie; acting, sets, music, etc..Or maybe it's just the presence of Peter Cushing. I'd call this one a bit mis-titled since there is no "revenge". Also a hammer horror without a plothole is nonexistant, so of course those were met. Everything else aside, a fun 90 minutes to kill. I didn't see the first movie, so I don't know how this stacks up to the original but..I can say it's got that 'Hammer formula' that is in what I'd guess many of the Hammer flicks. There are some unintentionally funny scenes, like the fight between some dude and the "Stein's creation". It's also funny how the 'flaw' is that he turns into a cannibal. Ah ha ha!
that's great.
7/10
june 27
Anyone who has seen at least one Jean-Pierre Jeunet film knows that he is a great visual storyteller and this film is not an exception. Visually beautiful, on a scale of epic proportions this film is about not giving up hope when everything else seems hopeless.
It's an unconventional kind of romance film with a tinge of The Notebook.
8/10
june 28
Boondock Saints is in the same vein of the previous works of Guy Ritchie and Quentin Tarantino - it's a mixture of characters, dialogue, humor, and content that were made famous by these two. I haven't seen a film like this before, which is why I can't comment on whether this is a fresh idea or not, but if there hasn't been anything like the plot of Boondock Saints before, then the idea is quite original. Good work by the two main leads Norman Reedus, and Sean Patrick Flanery where Reedus is the humor in contrast to Flanery's more serious take. Without Willem Dafoe, this movie wouldn't be anything - he's the glue, and what fun he's having playing his role!
I can't say I loved it, but I definitely enjoyed it and would gladly give this one a rewatch, this could perhaps be a film where the more you watch it, the more you appreciate what it is.
7/10 Decent entertainment.
june 29
saw this was on tv so I just gave it a rewatch. I know this movie receieved a lot of bs from everyone but I for one thought it was decent. Not a lot happening, only til the end..but my eyes did not tire of seeing Camilla Belle for all that time answering the phone a thousand times and being scared. Plus maybe it's only me, but I appreciated the film's atmosphere and how it was shot practicall all on soundstage, including the exterior. I guess it's the nostalgia in me. Love that slow mo shot of Scarface in the cop car.
610 - rewatchable and fun for what it's worth
man, I don't know if I should give this a rating as I sat through 2 hours of plot going over my head. Maybe the Coen's writing is just too smart for me, maybe it's cause i saw it late at night. Whatever the case - had no clue what was going on.. all I got was two rival gang leaders having a feud and Byrne's character in between all that. Other than that, it was decent, if only I knew what was going on.
based on true story, but you can't deny it feels like a 70's road exploitation movies. So, if you wonder what it's like if Spielberg made an exploitation film - then this is worth checking. But, it lacks something, there's not a lot going on in this film besides holding a patrol officer hostage in the cop car and running away from a stampede of cop cars. There's just no real character development which is why this movie didn't grab me as much. Now if you take a movie like Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry (also 3 people, pretty much same kind of plot) in contrast to Sugarland Express - Mary suceeds JUST because the characters are so likeable, and so developed. I understand this is based on true story, but that doesn't guarantee I'll like any movie on the basis of that fact.
6/10, still decent, maybe there's some sort of subtext in that cause it sure felt like it had something deeper than 3 people running from cops to get the baby from foster parents.
I didn't see the original, just the extended 133 minute version. With this movie in the bank, I have faith in Wiseman's future and DH4. Here lies an interesting concept of the war between Vampires and Werewolves - two horror mediums that nowadays or throughout the cinema history has been run into the ground. But Len does something interesting here, he brings them two together and creates a world reminiscent of The Matrix. The constant use of natural phenomena; thunderstorms and rain creates an atmosphere just right for the movie like this. Asides from the appealing visuals there's also an exciting story that captivated me until the finish. And then there's the lean 'n mean Kate/Selene (Shiiit that rhymed; "lean 'n mean Kate/Selene" haha) in tight leather that gives man 'lotta wood. A plus.
8/10
june 30
an alright "monster-animal" picture, nicely photographed. Takes a while to get going, but in the third act it gets interesting. Stiil, i had issues with the quick cutting - which got annoying during the action scenes. Not really scary, just semi-entertaining.
5/10
The most fun I've had at the movie theater this year, and maybe in a WHILE. If you're one of those who are turned off by the PG-13 rating - do yourself a favor and just IGNORE it. All it means is less McClane cursing like a sailor and the now infamous Yippie-ki-yay mother*gunshot*. The rest rings true to a Die Hard film. This reminded me a lot of Die Hard with a Vengeance. It had that same momentum and adrenaline; fast paced and exhilirating. McClane isn't "watered down" in any way AS a character. He posesses the same humor and wit as in the previous films. Despite what you may think of Justin Long, he's actually pretty OK in this movie and not as annoying as the trailers showed him to be. Len Wiseman does a great job of making this movie FEEL like it's part of the DH family and for that I salute him. I have to warn you though, that if your "movie standards" are HIGH, and you like to pick apart an action movie like THIS to such things as plot, and you question everything - you won't enjoy it. There's a few or maybe a lot (seriously there's not really TIME to question anything, you're immersed in the film that you forget everything and you just enjoy it) of plot holes involving the HOWS and the believability factor - you can kiss goodbye. A lot of sequences are pretty insane, but they're done not for the viewer to question why or how that happens but to boomblast your adrenaline to a dangerous high. This is why if you like your 'action' films to be grounded in a reality - you'll scoff at it. But if you go in there to just HAVE A GOOD TIME. This baby is a MUST SEE.
9/10.
P.S. See it with a big audience, prefereably.
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