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Reviews
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)
Score and filmography make it stand out. Superb
Revisited this gem last night having previously viewed during a distracted time in my life. The casting is superior to most western style films as every character is believable and the fear or uncertainty experienced by most around Jesse is palpable and puts you on edge to watch. The narration is subtle and toned without being overused, adding some depth and setting when required. The pace is slow and it's not all action, this is character based storytelling at its best. The score brings a whole new feel.
The standouts for me are Pitt, Affleck and Rockwell. All provide pitch perfect performances. I read somewhere Pitt rated this as his best movie, on second viewing I have to agree. Having reviewed I would put this in my top 20 movies and will no doubt view again.
The Shepherd (2023)
YTS pilot is dumb AF
I have read the source material for this short which was charming enough. Why the need to make a short(ish) film about it I do not understand. Maybe it lost most of its charm during editing ? Acting is acceptable as are the cast. Something just felt off and why a pilot would fly out into open water with several technical issues when he could quickly return to base would baffle any viewer.
If you are looking to fill half an hour or so at Christmas, take the dog out or wash the car, this would be a waste of your time. The sentiment of the film would be better felt if not so rushed and forced among other issues.
The Black Phone (2021)
Fees like I've seen it before, but........
Ethan Hawke does a great job with a limited horror role. Good concept and delivery which perfectly reproduces that 70s Americana feel. Madeleine MCGraw steals the show for me with a strong and believable performance. As with most of these mass produced horrors quite predictable but very easy to watch. A solid enough 7/10.
Resurrection (2022)
I watched it all, but.........
Got through this, I think just by the performances of Hall and Roth. Not the happiest of storylines and definitely no for any pregnant or recently bereaved parents.
Interesting concept with a strange script and weak ending. If you like art house / theatre genres you will have plenty to enjoy here. Great lead performances but as a whole sadly not for me.