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Reviews
Yijae, Got Jookseummida (2023)
Fascinating
What started as a gritty, ultra dark and brutal (!)show moved episode by episode into something way more profound - almost philosophical. I've seen quite some Korean mystery movies and they really have the gift to look beyond stereotypes and paint by number characters, instead they evolve naturally and build a connection with the audience. Death game is quite a ride. At the beginning I thought it may head into a final destination direction but it became very obvious that it has more substancial things to tell beside the famous quote - u can't cheat death. The acting is overall top notch, same as the effects, action & fight scenes. I loved how the insidious cat and mouse play with the sociopath turned out - a milestone in psychological cinema. In a nutshell, a fascinating, important and unique story told: to live life to the fullest. Every moment.
Utopia (2020)
Don't care really
If there's another version somewhere out there. UTOPIA (2020) is a great show with an absolutely terrifying timing as it is still very closely connected to our current society and all the turmoil, fears, menace and uncertainty.
Controversial and unpopular conspiracies create the core of the show and are maybe the main reason it didn't land with a wider audience. It makes your heart sink on many, many, many occasions... eg the scene at house 5850 with the kid carrying the machine gun felt utterly disturbing and spine-tingling. The producers/writers took a high risk for this kind of content ... actually Utopia is almost never pretty to watch, never light or easy and if so, be prepared to get a punch into the stomach within seconds. In my pov, this show is completely unpredictable with a very deep, grim and utterly frightening story - as well as a jaw dropping twist towards the end. This said, it felt 1-2 episodes cut short. The end is very open and we all know, there's unfortunately no 2nd season.
Y todos arderán (2021)
Sometimes less is more
Everyone will burn delivers some striking visuals - You'll find Carrie reverence's, the omen, small town crime covered by the community and church, an apocalypse kind of prophecy, some superpower and supernatural add ons etc. Sounds a tad too much in my opinion. I didn't mind this movie as it steps into interesting aspects of the arrival of the antichrist but it never finds its way to navigate through all, really. The acting is appropriate, sometimes over the top for my taste... but with an atmospheric soundtrack. In a nutshell, less would been have more in this case, as it would have helped to establish a more cohesive storytelling.
Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris (2022)
Fairy tale ? Not really
Despite the good production values, the Parisian vibe and some smaller cheerful moments (eg Atelier at the house of Dior) I was not overly impressed by this movie. Sure, it could be labeled fairy tale and with this u have pretty much a wildcard to inject everything what would have never happened in the 50's... still, a more interesting story than boy meets girl under specific circumstances is not enough (to me) for a fascinating movie experience. The main story about the Dior dress is ok but again, too many stereotypes thrown into the mix don't add substance, excitement nor depth. Characters remain rather bland and act completely unrealistic - again, feel free to call it a fairy tale but pls add at least some on screen magic and sparkle.
It's What's Inside (2024)
Lacks dimension
The story is somewhat original and is clearly addressed to a Gen Z - fast paced - social media viewer. The movie didn't take enough time to explore the background, the story nor to build characters or to connect with individuals really. Wouldn't it have been great to truly see the other side of persons? Their character or their genuine believes or desires? It scratches the surface yes, but remains rather one dimensional and stereotypical, almost artificial. The painting used in one scene to show the audience what lies underneath - depending which (RGB) filter u put on - was in my opinion more interesting than the movie itself hence the 2nd star.
Death Sentence (2007)
Classic revenge story
Nothing more and nothing less. It never surprises u or comes up with twists and turns which is a bit unfortunate as eg. The court room scene could have been used to explore in more depth a psychological cat and mouse play... Ultimately, Death sentence provides not necessarily an original or groundbreaking story. It's pretty much about a good, law abiding citizen (Kevin Bacon) who takes matter in his own hands once he lost his son to a gang crime & the trust in the legal system. The more interesting part is how it's delivered - gritty, raw and pretty much way over the top. It's quote on quote entertaining to follow him around on his unhinged and unapologetic mission - just to learn, in war there are not winners, really.
Penny Dreadful (2014)
Outstanding
Penny dreadful is an outstanding show however it varies quite a lot from episode to episode and ultimately from season to season.
Season 1 I found really good. Characters are nicely introduced, their inner struggles and demons revealed in an unique and fascinating manner. U will find pretty much all characters from the Victorian literature. Dr. Frankenstein, the monster, the wolf man, Dorian Gray, Dracula, Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde & many more. In the center and the clear anchor point of the whole show, the mysterious, multifaceted Mrs. Ives - portrayed brilliantly by Eva Green! The vibe of the mid/late 19th century is captured with an remarkable attention to detail in every single shot. Season 1 (7/10) revolves around a strong, yet familiar gothic/vampire tale. Season 2 (9/10) is deep, disturbing, fascinating, horrific, surprising and probably one of the best I've seen in this genre. Unfortunately it falls deep in the final season (6/10). All loose ends are somehow tied up but it left me disappointed esp the ultimate showdown, the end of days, the Armageddon...ended pretty much in a bar fight kind of scene. Still, if u're only mildly interested in this genre u have to give it a try.
Der Pass (2018)
Solid mix
Overall season1 was ok and had some momentum. Enough to keep me engaged but ultimately not convincing enough to continue into season2 and beyond. Anyway, despite the fact it takes some inspiration from (in every way superior) Broen -9/10-the show manages to create an eerie atmosphere and overall feel of unpredictability & foreboding. The nature shots are spot on and the camera team did a great job here. Acting nothing to complain but also nothing to rave about either. Maybe it relied a bit too heavy on the use of filter (a sea of beige and blue) to evoke emotions. On top we find well known and established, quote on quote, spooky elements embedded (wooden artefacts, cult, apocalypse sort of thing etc) in a nutshell, it's an entertaining mix of crime vs social/moral aspects vs inner demons. The story (including a sea of red herrings and sub plots) takes its time to develop & to unravel, which is appreciated. However truly disliked the constant display of cruelty against animals. Not sure what the idea behind this approach was but it felt to me unnecessary and didn't add anything to the story or characters.
Aterrados (2017)
Disappointed
It's advisable to make your very own experiences ... especially with movies which have super high ratings. I was expecting an outstanding movie experience tbh. Something almost groundbreaking, given the amount of glowing reviews. Ultimately I was very disappointed with Terrified. Sure, it has a few random scenes which could be considered eerie or mildly frightening. However a few bits don't create a convincing & holistic story. Leave alone something truly outstanding or memorable. Some aspects of poltergeist, some of the thing, some conjuring etc. Even the -airquote- kitchen scene felt rather average.
Basic Instinct (1992)
Groundbreaking
....Even after 30 years basic instinct delivers. In my opinion it's one of the best mystery thrillers ever created. The story is original and takes several twists and turns. Overall, it's sleek, bold, unexpected, daring and most of all highly intelligent. I love Sharon Stone in this role as the manipulative & unpredictable femme fatale. She, as well as the movie itself deserved better than being reduced (and criticized) to solely erotic aspects. The spectacular soundtrack from Jerry Goldsmith, breathtaking location and setting formed a true modern classic - simply a timeless noir crime masterpiece.
Before the Fall (2016)
Sophisticated
A quiet and sophisticated movie which doesn't need a lot of words to bring the story across. It's a heartfelt, genuine story taking inspiration from the classic novel Pride & Prejudice translating it into our current times with its current themes, fears and social aspects. The chemistry between the two leads is great and special shout out to Mr. Conner in his subtile and nuanced portray of a troubled man fighting inner demons, overcoming a lack of self love and to become finally his true and happy self. A beautiful story embedded in a beautiful setting with an eternal, timeless message at his core.
It Follows (2014)
It follows never
A beaten path. I really like this mystery thriller a lot due the highly original and unpredictable story. There are not too many other movie in this genre which manage to stay away from the usual traps. Aka cheap jump scares, visual effect overflow, stupid decisions leading just to more trouble... u get the point. Instead It Follows concentrates right from the get go on building (and maintaining) a atmosphere of unease and uncertainty. Only a few minutes into the movie I started to scan the tv screen for the dark entity...a thing walking persistently towards u... never stopping, never letting go... no escape. I truly frightening situation. A clear recommendation for all who wanna experience rather see horror.
American Gods (2017)
Confusion on the highest level
American goods is hard to describe. And after finishing the 1st season I'm still confused. Just on a higher level... The idea behind is fascinating and unique to say the least but it's equally strange, bizarre and in parts almost grotesque. But above all i found it confusing. Some (sub) plots don't lead to anything others meander and fizzle out. I'd have loved to see a much more tight knitted, cohesive story and less of the artsy and ambitious storyline which actually made it onto the screen. The acting is partly top notch...in other scenes forced and almost cartoonish. Ultimately a bit of a missed opportunity in my pov due to too many layers.
Knock at the Cabin (2023)
Do u believe ?
In my opinion this is an essential aspect of the whole story. Can u buy into the story of 4 strangers appear at your doorstep and ask for the ultimate sacrifice... the overall idea is interesting and a somewhat new approach to the concept of the apocalypse. Are the 4 intruders the horseman ? The cook equals starving. The nurse, sickness. The guy with a criminal past, war. The teacher potentially conquer... so far so good. But it gets muddled a bit from here. Suddenly one of the father (kudos- in putting a same sex couple into the center of a multimillion blockbuster movie!) believes and sees the higher goal ... I'm not sure, really. I also expected a more profound twist. (Apparently the book it's based on had a completely different ending - which I'd have loved to see instead) Still, at times suspenseful and with an interesting premise unfortunately not as convincing as I'd have thought...
The Perfect Couple (2024)
Quirky and fun
Despite the actual story which revolves around the sudden and mysterious death of one person. I really liked the perfect couple. It's light hearted and doesn't take itself too serious. The characters have all their flaws and hidden agendas which are revealed step by step. This is actually the most interesting part. Looking very closely through the webs of lies, betray, ego and drama. The story is captivating and full of twists. The acting very good (what can go wrong with Nicole, one of the best actresses in the world bring part of it?) all in all a entertaining show shot at a beautiful location with plenty of red herrings.
Penny Dreadful: City of Angels (2020)
Uneasy on so many levels
...By letting them be who they are...By making all their dreams come true...
What a powerful and enigmatic line from the 1st episode. I really loved this show and esp Natalie Dormer's & Lorenza Izzo's supporting performances as the demon and Santa Muerte respectively. City of Angels portrayed in my pov way more layers then the quote on quote original Penny Dreadful. I rated this 7/10 - (season 1, 7/10, season 2, 9/10 and 3, 6/10). Unfortunately City is too heavily linked by its title/name and had never the chance to build its own reputation. A pitty, really since it has a more profound story in my pov (social and race aspects, politics, greed, fear to name only a few) next to the overarching frightening supernatural core. The cast is absolutely stellar incl the child actors (Frank/Tom) who really gave me the chills in their interactions ...and the slow but steady build up - foreboding, unpredictable and twisted. Set design, costume etc overall the 30's vibe - brilliant! I'd recommend this series clearly to everybody interested in an intelligent and mysterious show where everything comes together in a heartbreaking, sinister and tragic showdown.
A shame no 2nd season will come, I loved this short trip to the City of Angels hence the 9/10.
Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile (2019)
A glimpse
In case u expect gruesome and horrific details u would need to look elsewhere. Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile (btw a great title and A quite from the judge in the actual trial) only hints what this man was capable to do. However the movie puts its focus clearly on the relationship(s) with his two girlfriends, on the secrets he was able to keep so well hidden and on the manipulation of everyone around him. From this perspective it's very different to other true crime / killer pics. The acting from Zac Efron is absolutely convincing showing the charming and witty guy vs the sinister and dark aspects. Only in a few scenes u might get a glimpse of what lies truly behind these eyes. I would have loved to see a more suspenseful build up / flow as it jumps quite a bit back and forth. Still, a good movie mainly due to Z. Efron's performance.
The Visitation (2006)
The usual mystery
I found The Visitation ok for a one time watch. It delivered enough suspense (on a minor level) to keep me interested in who is the self proclaimed Messias, what are his motives and is everything actually what it seems? The movie does not tab into new territories or delivered crazy and surprising twists and turns. The resolution towards the end was convincing - even though I thought it was a somewhat disappointing finale - as the possessed guy pretty much ran out of time to achieve his actual goal due to his enormous need to explain all the why and how. Odd to say the least. Effects etc are basic in my pov but again fulfilled their needs to support the story.
I Came By (2022)
Dark secrets
I came by, has some similarities to movies such as Don't Breath, Bad Samaritan or The Good Neighbor (2016). Some youngsters breaking & entering and discover a very disturbing scene. Soon they learn that the judge in this case has a dark and sinister side. The movie manages very well to create an unpleasant and uncomfortable atmosphere mainly due to its quote on quote real life feeling. The characters come across as regular guys who just end up being at the wrong time at the wrong place. Some decisions / situations felt a bit predictable but overall I liked where the story went. It's not overly graphic more on the twisted psycho side.
I Am: Celine Dion (2024)
My highest respect
For Celine Dion, letting us participate (in parts) of her life. The documentary, even a bit disjointed and not entirely cohesive in its narrative, gave an upmost raw and unfiltered insights into one of todays most beloved and celebrated stars. I was surprised how close up and personal the shots are and how much vulnerability Mrs. Dion (the Boss, how she is respectfully called by her support team) was willing to show the public eye. Some comments rant about the warehouse etc. So what? She's one of the most successful singers in the world and gave millions of people so much more back with her magnificent voice... after this film I watched again - probably the 20th time - the already now legendary & breathtaking performance at the Olympic Games which left me in awe for her resilience, dedication, willpower and talent. A magical moment.
A Family Affair (2024)
You're making Mila cry!
Hilarious. I don't get the passionate rant against this movie at all. In my opinion it's a light hearted, easy and highly entertaining romance. The witty aspects and funny conversations (there' re plenty of) are naturally embedded into the story. Again, loads of dislikes but apparently men in rubber suits are perceived as innovative? I had to rewind several times as I couldn't get enough of eg: You're not Jack & Rose... or, you're making Mila cry... loved the cast and esp Nicole Kidman in this role. She is never shy of taking unusual roles - and as it looks, a quote on quote, older women falling in love with a young guy is somewhat still polarizing. A wonderful watch which made my day.
Longlegs (2024)
Makes your heart sink
I rated hundreds of mystery movies some range from barely watchable to best in class. The silence of the lambs (obviously a 10/10) is often attached to Longlegs. I don't get this comparison - and I wonder if it anyway was the intention to do so. There's hardly a link beside the young agent and maybe the 90's reminiscence. Longlegs delivers an unique approach in my pov (similar to the Blackcoats daughter). Ultra dark, unsettling and it made me feel uneasy, even a bit sick at times. The acting is really strong from both the somewhat lost rookie but also - more in a bizarre / frightening - way from N Cage. The story unfolded slowly, with an increasing level of terror. (The birthday cake scene made my heart sink ...) an intense and sinister watch starting as a crime but adds a supernatural element for its climax. The least u read, watch or know about this movie the better. Just be prepared for a very dark experience.
Red Lights (2012)
Builds up for ...
There's nothing wrong with red lights. But after watching it, I had the feeling nothing is right either. I really love and appreciate a more complex mystery movie, a strong story without cheap jump scares, a good twist is anyway always up my alley and a great cast should be a guarantee for a good time - right? Well, not so much... the movie manages to build up atmosphere, interest, tension even at times ... it builds and builds and builds ... did I say it builds up tension? Well, once it comes to the long awaited resolution / climax it falls apart immediately. The so called twist (despite it might be somehow appropriate) did not convince me at all and left me wondering if all the efforts put can actually end in this way. I don't need everything spoon fed nor explained every aspects about the how, & why but it didn't wrap up in an interesting way in my pov.
Final Analysis (1992)
Manipulation
I don't understand the limited amount of reviews... final analysis is a sleek, intelligent and glossy noir crime in the typical early 90s style. Mrs Basinger delivers an excellent performance in her role as the -on the 1st sight- innocent but mysterious beauty. Soon other facets come to life and a much more manipulative and twisted character appears. On top u have an equally fascinating Uma Thurman playing the lost and unstable sister... the perfect couple for a dark crime. Mr Gere finds himself suddenly framed and used. Will he overcome the sinister plan? The San Francisco setting (incl the lighthouse) is a great backdrop for the suspenseful & unpredictable story ... a Hitchcock nod is clearly visible and very much appreciated in my pov.
The Dark Half (1993)
Sparrows
There are plenty of Stephen King adaptations out there. His work and esp the earlier novels are classics and I really love all of them. Think IT, Salems Lot, Tarker Mills, Christine, Needful Things, Tommyknockers and The Dark Half. Some are translated well others clearly show a lack of eeriness, depth or simply magic. These very special moments and nuances, the novels deliver, but adaptations lack sometimes. Even I didn't mind this particular movie, I missed the spark a bit. It was entertaining despite the repetitive actions but all in all ok. What I really liked were the sparrow scenes - esp. At the end. Not the best not the worst translation. A right in the middle, in my pov.