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Reviews
Blink Twice (2024)
Incredible despite the unrealism, good perspective on flashback and memories
This movie is incredible. Yeah, it's not completely realistic- especially not the ending. But the acting is powerful. Frida was believable, the side characters were too- though the girl on the blunts was very unpredictable. And the 'red rabbit' plot twist left me speechless, like 'HOW?!' So it was very satisfying to see all the symbolism, uncanny moments, surreal characters (such as the staff) and interesting hints/clues wrap up so neatly.
Warnings for very triggering content of extreme trauma, though. For me, it was okay but it can definitely make one reconsider the nature of flashbacks. The way how truth always finds a way back to people is very scary! Thanks to this movie, I realised that flashbacks are more real than I realised; and the way how little sounds, phrases and movements triggered them- made me think back to my own ones as well (they get triggered in same way).
Tatum to me did a really good job at being a totally unhinged billionaire, and the guys playing his friends were goofy enough to be believable.
Overall, I think this movie is very good. It has many unrealistic moments, however its underlying message concerning the truths that flashbacks unveil, and how abuse is weaponised by those in power- and how abusers can make those memories seem as if they NEVER EXISTED- was very decent to me.
One feedback would've been to maybe amp up tension, give more clues. Add more moments of unease between the drugged-up shenanigans between the characters. The movie did do that to an extent, but ah if only it was longer! I think Zoe Kravitz and the team did an exceptional job.
Our Borough: Love & Hustle (2019)
Good Rep of Hidden Voices
In the light of all the violence going on in Tottenham and other North London locations, this documentary is a beautiful look into the lives of ethnic minority students.
It focuses on loss, police difficulties, gentrification, cost of living and the individual stories of King George and Amira. One focuses on King improving his quality of life as well as embracing love with his boyfriend; as well as showcasing how other people share love in the area.
As for Amira she showcases the intense hustle game for North Londoners, doing their utmost to improve their quality of life. New builds lead to a great imbalance.
Chihiro-san (2023)
A Slow-Paced Yet Moving Story
Personally, I had no expectations for this film when first switching it on; I was just excited to see the narrative of an ex sex worker become the focus of the story. However, it was much better than expected. With the simple yet deceptive dialogue; how the story glimpses into the lives of various characters who are suffering and the way she lifts them up; to it's very calming pace- this move is really nice to watch.
As someone who also feels like an outsider looking in, it's great to see the people Chihiro helps; but also very sad to see that Chihiro herself is also someone who is going through immense sadness and pain. It's like she's being the kidness in the world that is hard to find. Like a silent hero.
This movie may not be for everyone but it gives an uplifting voice to anyone going through tough times, as well as those who want to visually relax by the seaside.
Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)
Pretty Cool
Although the multiverse concept can be incredibly confusing at times and its full of hilarious slapstick humor and wild action, I quite liked the messages of the movie. That people can reach their full potential, that just one decision can change our lives in many ways, that via the symbolism of googly eyes; one can make the cruel reality of this world into something kind and silly.
Now the costuming, effects, lighting etc is of an incredible quality; it really sucked me straight into the many worlds of the movie. And the psychadelic soundtrack paired with epic effects gave the feeling of being trapped within an extremely surreal fever dream.
I liked this movie, it's weird but has its own special place in Hollywood. And the actors were incredible.
Mood (2022)
Brilliant show- Moving, Thought-Provoking and Very Real
Sasha's story is very real. Of how easily life can fall apart when support is hard to find, and how hard it can be to keep one's head above water whilst also aiming for their dreams. Yeah sure some of her behavior at times can be self-destructive. But she is also a very vulnerable protagonist who is consistently hit with punches in life as she tries to find her way through it all; to finally reclaim the child crying from within, and reclaim herself.
Sasha's lack of confidence in her musical aspirations was very relatable to me. Without support, it can feel almost impossible to achieve one's dreams. And her relationship with Carly is incredibly poignant and sad- her introducing her to a world that looks glam and glitzy on the outside; but is faced with many grim realities. Sometimes, friends are not quite friends.
I love this show for its nuanced take on Sasha's character and its respect for both sex workers and trauma. Mood also has a top level soundtrack with some incredible hits!!
Vinland Saga (2019)
Breathtaking Animation and Superb Storyline
This is one of the best adaptations of the Viking saga I've ever seen. This anime starts off as a slow burn, and is filled to the brim with war and strife. However, this eventually gives way to one of the most incredible plot twists ever; topped off with an astounding season ending that left me in tears.
Vinland Saga is an epic anime like no other, please give it a chance. Its storytelling, characters and narrative is powerful.
And following Thorfinn's story through these battles and war was so fraught with suffering and emotion, man I loved it.
Wit studio's animation is extremely good and fluid as well, battle scenes are quick and deadly.
The Way Way Back (2013)
Heartfelt and Moving Comedy Drama
The Way, Way back is a funny yet poignant tale of a 14 year old boy named Duncan in a blended family (whose dynamic is putrid at best) who goes to his step-dad's beach house. It's a sad journey for Duncan, who retreats so far into his shell that he looks visibly pained. But he also makes great new ties and experiences on this trip that gives him the freedom and fun that he's been deprived of for so long.
This movie is beautifully made. The realness of the characters, the comedic timing of the jokes, the relatability of Duncan's situation and the sheer adventure of his personal growth as he encounters an unusual new friend and way of life...the way the movie portrays Duncan's growth as his life grows past the cage of his crappy step-dad's mistreatment and his mother's absent behaviour is so touching.
This movie is a hidden gem, a piece that not just teens will enjoy. By the end of the movie, I had hope. It was brilliant.
Isanghan byeonhosa Woo Young-woo (2022)
Best Kdrama I've seen in years
Woo Young Woo is a brilliant character. The writers balance her autism well with the other facets of her character such as her high intelligence, love for whales and time working in Hanbada Law Firm- to such a high depth that she ends up feeling really genuine as a character.
Every episode brings a new case that changes individual perspectives and raises many questions about the status-quo of a lawyer.
What is justice? What is right? What does it mean to be a lawyer? Why do people discriminate so much against those with disabilities? This and so many deep philosophical questions are raised in this series, making for a great learning experience.
The rest of the cast is also really interesting. Jun-Ho is a sweetheart staff member who struggles with being overly kind and pleasing; Kwon fights hard for recognition but uses dangerous and crude means to do so (bit of a bully); Choi seems harsh but is one of the most supportive and interesting rival characters I've seen in a while...and there are many more brilliant characters too.
And most importantly, this drama has very good understanding and representation of disabilities and the ways that people feel and experience them.
This drama is definitely worth watching. You will be shocked by the massive plot twists this show has as well, it always keeps the viewers guessing as to what will happen next.
Spriggan (2022)
Good Fun!!!
This anime series is a short OVA collection of SPRIGGAN episodes based off an older manga with the same name. Each one follows a brand new storyline in which ARCAM and other political/ government groups wage battle over collecting ancient artifacts.
This series is a lot of fun with great fighting animation, a protagonist that seems overpowered but actually struggles a lot in some fights (awesome!), funny character interactions and just all-around interesting scenes.
SPRIGGAN is just pure fun to watch! I enjoyed it a lot, actually ended up binging it all in one go. The animation is also really good and fluid!
Baburu (2022)
Animation surpasses the story by far
The animation of this anime is sublime- it is great fun to watch the characters parkouring around a Tokyo submerged in water and bubbles. Bubble is a beautiful anime, but sadly the story felt threadbare in comparison.
Dialouge felt sparse and its insistence on rushing the romantic development made for a shame; as the two leads felt a bit flat. The story was very hard for me to invest in, with the secret behind the bubbles' appearance/ their backstory leaving me feeling pretty deflated.
This movie had potential but the final plot execution just wasn't exciting enough for me to genuinely get invested into Bubble's world and their characters.
Spriggan: The Forest of No Return (2022)
Thrilling
This episode is full of interesting mystery and high-octane drama as they explore a forest riddled with curses. The characters this episode are both interesting and fun to watch, giving the episode a great dynamic. A bit predictable but great fun to watch.
Kedibone (2020)
Heartbreaking Movie
This movie emphasises the perlious cost of doing anything to achieve one's dreams.
Kedibone is a very sad and heart-wrenching movie about a poor young teen living in Soweto whose University funds are covered by her loyal boyfriend- after her aunty spent her varsity funds without her permission. Her dream is to become an actor, and she'll do whatever it takes to become one- even if it results in her betraying both herself and her loved ones.
It's painful to see how the adults in this movie exploit Kedibone's hunger to achieve her dreams; how she ends up almost losing herself entirely as she tries to fulfil their selfish whims for gain. Young, vulnerable and poor; she sees this route as her only way to stardom, but what she receives is the complete opposite of that.
The characters feel real, Kedibone's descent into despair as money and status tempts her into a life of materialism, popularity and treachery is saddening, and the movie's chilling message on how one can end up destroying themselves when doing anything to achieve their dreams- resonated with me.
Brilliant and thought provoking movie; I found it very relatable. Kedibone fell into a trap that any one of us could fall into.
Lizzo's Watch Out for the Big Grrrls (2022)
Great Entertainment!!
Lizzo's show is fun and filled with positive self-affirment. Every dancer is awesome, and I like how people are not always eliminated either; providing a safe space for the dancers to do activities that boost their esteem and build friendships.
I would like to see longer dance scenes if there is a season 2.
EDIT: This series DID NOT age well.
Samjin Group Yeong-aw TOEIC-ban (2020)
A Great Peek into the Lives of 1995 Working Women
I really like the three female leads and the plot of trying to uncover and reveal their company's hidden dark side is incredible!!! In a time where life is hard for working women, they really shine in their own way. I also enjoy their friendship.
Angeliena (2021)
Quite Fun
This movie has quite a sad story to it, however Angeliena's bright and colourful world adds so much more to it. This movie really showcases why people need to live their dreams, before its too late. And also why it is so important to be unabashedly yourself. And because Angeliena is such a light in everybody's lives, it is touching to see how they look out for her in return. The main antagonist is very annoying which means he did alright. I also liked the diversity of the characters as well.
However, I must deduct points because at time the script of the movie fell a bit flat, and because the dynamics between the characters weren't engaging enough for me. Also I wish I could've learnt more about the characters and seen Angeliena's journey!