kevin_robbins

My daughter and I recently watched the 10-episode series Devilman Crybaby (2018) on Netflix. The storyline follows a world where demons have emerged on Earth's surface and are ready to take it back. A young man suddenly develops powers and feels compelled to join the fight against them. He quickly discovers he's not the only one with abilities-but why did he receive them, and what does it ultimately mean?

This series was created by Go Nagai (Devilman) and delivers a worthwhile story once all the pieces fall into place. The demon-versus-human conflict, horror elements, and emotional depth are all very strong. It includes the expected love story-which is handled in a surprisingly amusing way-and plenty of gore, kills, and blood splatter to satisfy horror fans. There's also far more sex, nudity, and explicit content than I anticipated. My one complaint is that while the animation is solid, it isn't quite elite. Oh, and the rap sequences were unexpectedly entertaining.

In conclusion, Devilman Crybaby is a step down from Hellsing or Castlevania, but still extremely entertaining. I'd score it a 8/10 and strongly recommend it.

I recently watched White Boy Rick (2018) on Tubi. The storyline follows a Detroit teenager whose father is an arms dealer in their community. When the FBI offers him a deal to avoid jail by becoming an informant, he accepts-only to learn their protection has limits.

This picture is directed by Yann Demange ('71) and stars Matthew McConaughey (Mud), Richie Merritt (Clean), Bel Powley (The King of Staten Island), Jennifer Jason Leigh (The Hateful Eight), Jonathan Majors (Creed III), and Brian Tyree Henry (Atlanta).

The film does an excellent job establishing its atmosphere. There's a dark, gritty tone from beginning to end. The cast is outstanding, with everyone delivering strong performances. The writing is solid across the board-the unfolding of the story, the dialogue, and the character perspectives all feel authentic. There's also a young kid who's genuinely hilarious with his constant "grandpa" references, which had me cracking up. McConaughey, in particular, has several standout moments; his "glass half full kind of guy" line is peak McConaughey. The conclusion ties everything together well, humanizing the journey and reminding the audience that this is a true story.

In conclusion, White Boy Rick is a worthwhile, underrated street drama. I'd score it 7.5-8/10.

I recently watched the short film Axemas (2017) on Tubi. The storyline follows a group of friends who plan to party late at night in a storage facility. Unfortunately for them, a serial killer dressed as Santa Claus discovers their gathering and sets out to make them his next victims.

This picture is written and directed by John Ward (Frightvision) and stars Ashley Campbell (Brutality), John E. Seymore (Human Zoo), Lindsey Cruz (Neon), and Dillon Weishuhn (Brutality).

Running just 24 minutes, the movie does the best it can with its limited runtime. It features a solid villain and a great slasher setting. The practical effects exceeded my expectations, delivering satisfying gore and some creative kills. I did, however, want a bit more from the ending.

In conclusion, Axemas is worth a watch for low-budget slasher fans looking for some holiday-themed carnage. I would score it 5/10 and recommend it with the right expectations.