Venganza

This movie was really amusing to me and, I imagine, people who have a similar background.

I grew up in Suburban Texas, just outside of the major city of Dallas. Most all of our extended family lived another 20 miles out in rural towns. I loved visiting them, learning a different way of life, and the tribal isms that help build stereotypes of Texans and the South in general. Even as an adult, when I return from a trip visiting my extended family, my coworkers say I sound like my Texas accent got a boost.

I love Novak's take on coming into a culture that's similar but foreign. The little things that are universal across all Texas, and the things that are unique to small rural towns.

I don't want to give up anything in the review other than to say give it a chance and if you don't like it, bless your heart.

This movie is pretty awesome. It's very funny and filled with laugh-out-loud moments. And these aren't cheap laughs or sophomoric humor (which I don't mind). Most of the comedy is well-written and long-lasting (literally, remembering some parts still makes me laugh).

The dialogue is witty and clever with so many memorable lines. And they discuss and explore topics that really make you think. The premise is interesting and the story is intriguing throughout. And the drama really works.

The characters are unique and I think the entire cast does a great job. I especially want to point out Ashton Kutcher, even with such a small role. I basically have That '70s Show memorized and I used to love Punk'd. But I never thought he was a movie-level actor with any kind of range. This is the first time I've watched a role of his where I didn't see and hear Ashton Kutcher. His performance (and the writing) bring life to his character.

I really enjoyed Vengeance and would watch it again. I think most people will like it. (1 viewing, 8/3/2022)

I don't even know how to really explain this film without divulging but suffice to say it's not what you may think. It shows how today's social media society is quick to judge and it shows how wrong or shallow that judgement can be. While each character has varying moments on the film, the entire cast is very, very good with their timely execution of their insightful and sometimes comedic lines. A lot of substance in this film so if you're looking for a little distraction like Thor, DC Pets or Minion, this is not the film. If you want some sound acting and solid characters, Vengeance is worth seeing (along with Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris, Where the Crawdads Sings)

I will always appreciate and admire a film that is very clearly the singular creative vision of one person.

BJ Novak clearly had some things he wanted to say, and this film often feels like it was his outlet for venting his thoughts about humanity.

There's a lot of philosophical dialogue where characters disclose their feelings about relationships, regret, isolation, morality, etc. It's a film that covers so much thematic ground that I have to praise it for how far it reaches.

The film succeeds in being thought-provoking on so many occasions and the story is surprisingly heartwarming. I think the central idea upon which everything else hinges is that connection is what breeds caring. If you don't care about someone it's because you don't feel connected to them-not necessarily because you're different.

Unfortunately, with ambition also comes a scatterbrained tone in this case. There are so many jarring tonal shifts between comedy, dark drama, and ponderous dialogue. This also makes for a plot that feels all over the place and often directionless.

So many times throughout this story I didn't even really know what the movie was about because the characters' goals kept changing so often.

This is a strange piece of work, but it's a creative and original one. Please go check this out in a theater if you can.

This satire starts out with extreme comedy and then goes to a deep, dark and real place. The writing was really, really good. I do wish it was funnier throughout as most of the laughs are in the first half.

There's more than one moment that isn't predictable, and I just couldn't see it coming. Even if I watched it again. Just when you think it's all fun and games the movie hits you with a reality check reminder that does kinda feel like a punch to the gut.

Novak does a great job with his character and storytelling. I may have to revisit this one, but I totally recommend it. It's an interesting take on American culture that everyone should experience.