Vengeance

I applaud B. J. Novak for creating something that felt authentic to our culture right now. There is a lot to like about this movie. It feels artful and thoughtful. There are some excellent lines in this film that feel raw, poignant, and true.

For some reasons that are hard to articulate, some aspects of this movie did feel a little flat and hallow. Maybe that was the larger point? Perhaps getting a bit meta: "Everything is everything. So nothing means anything." There just times I was expecting to bit hit a little bit harder.

I think if Ashton's character had been utilized more, I would've felt more satisfied. He was the majority of the intrigue for me. He was really good in his moments on screen. Really, really good. And I feel like that could've been played with more, expanded in more ways. He somewhat represented what I thought was "Vengeance"'s takeaway. I would've loved more.

BJ Novak wrote, directed and acted an intriguing story that is funny, suspenseful, sad, and clever. One of the best things is how heartwarming most the characters are! For a movie that's mostly about finding the truth there's a lot of brilliance and fun scenes. I think if I didn't have a regal subscription I probably wouldn't have seen in the theater regardless I'm glad I did Vengeance is very good, I'd still recommend anyone see it and it was nice how some older folks talked to me.

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.

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)