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Reviews
Raised by Wolves (2020)
Great premise, disappointing result
The advertised premise of this series meant that I commenced watching the series with great anticipation. Unfortunately, the development of the series quickly became a disappointment in its development through typically simplistic stereotypes of people with religious beliefs - do those responsible for series with these themes ever consult with people who understand religion and religiosity? This was a great opportunity to nuance the realities of religious belief within the initial storyline, but was never achieved due to the use of religious stereotypes. Who knows what might have been with wiser type casting?
Moonfall (2022)
Goofy, but great!
I could restate everything that is 'wrong' with this movie, but many others have already done that.
But this is one of those films that is best viewed as a whole, not the sum of it's pieces. I found that you just need to lean back and enjoy it for what it is. There are so many extremes and eccentricities ranging from extremes of comedy and solemnity, and from the serious to the ludicrous.
That said, the three leading characters are not under nor overstated and the three actors make a major contribution to the success of this movie.
Casshern (2004)
An unusual ethical statement
Casshern is loaded with extreme depictions and characterization, as is typical of it's genre, across a lengthy storyline. One gets a sense that the film is trying to say 'something,' but leaves it to the viewer to work it out for themself. This reminded me of the original Gojira movie which utilized a extreme story to make it's point. In Casshern the same happens with the 'reveal' coming at the end - at that moment the viewer is also compelled to reflect back over the film and to reevaluate everything they have seen. For many viewers that may be the frustrating aspect of their experience. In terms of imagery, the film is rich in variety, colour and mood, well supported by a great score. Ultimately, it was a worthwhile viewing experience.
Dune: Part One (2021)
Good, but not great
For what it is Dune is good, but definitely not great. More along the lines of a James Bond movie that honours the Bond genre, but will never be great.
While the cinematography, costumes, special effects and sound were excellent - and probably will contend at the Oscars - the film is undone by a very predictable storyline (no, I haven't read the book). Even the potentially powerful movements were presented with very little creativity and imagination. This was a lost opportunity to produce a genuine epic for an expectant audience.
That said, on a personal note, this was another epic Hans Zimmer score.
The Tunnel (2013)
A great series
A great series, starting with the tremendous performances by the two lead actors through to a storyline that holds the viewer from beginning to end. The raw emotion is exceptional and a tribute to all those involved in the making of the series. This was a story that could easily 'go wrong' but never did. Watch it!
The Missing (2014)
Close, but not close enough
The premise and intention of season 1 was excellent, but it just didn't make it. Unfortunately, there were a number of annoying features in the series including characterization that was often forced, depictions that seemed unlikely, and an ultimately disappointing conclusion. It was as if the story took itself too seriously to the detriment of the storytelling. I'll watch season 2, but not with great anticipation.
The Tunnel (2013)
A great series
A great series, starting with the tremendous performances by the two lead actors through to a storyline that holds the viewer from beginning to end. The raw emotion is exceptional and a tribute to all those involved in the making of the series. This was a story that could easily 'go wrong' but never did. Watch it!
Voyagers (2021)
Great premise, weak movie
This film may be described as an attempted contemporary version of Lord if the Flies, but never got close. The initial premise of the movie was great, but the storyline quickly descended into mediocrity and predictability. The great movie this could have been was quickly lost.
Richard Jewell (2019)
A great, understated movie
This may be the injustice of the year, this film deserved much more attention than it got. The greatest strength of this movie is that it tells a story, and it tells it well.
Clint Eastwood's direction allows the story to tell itself, resulting in a film that never feels forced, rather it flows effortlessly in its own telling. The acting was tremendous and all the accolades are more than deserved, many kudos for here - a great example of excellent casting that doesn't fall into The casting trapped it could have.
Whether you are American or not, this is not only an important lesson and warning from history, it is also a much needed reminder of society home wrong.
Watch this film, or regret it.
Nochnye lastochki (2013)
Worth the historical value
While not a technically great film, The Night Swallows is worth watching if you are at all interested in military aviation and female aviation history. The film gives a basic insight into a brave group of female pilots, referred to as the Night Witches by the German military, who flew outdated aircraft on night harassment missions. A little frustrating was that the entire film is be based on a relatively short period during a single winter. No matter, it remains worth watching as it appears to be the only film or series available on the Night Witches.