Miroslav-27

In so many ways, this is a refreshingly clever take on a played out Christmas genre. Yet in certain areas, there is nothing new to see. Loved the modernization of Santa, the workshop, North Pole, reindeer, etc. The magic of Christmas is displayed in a clever way that hasn't been done before. This made it fun. Unique. Interesting.

However, behind all the new tech and flash, there are still the same old characters and themes. Deadbeat dad who needs to rekindle his relationship with his son to get off the naughty list, etc.

It's cheesy and it's fun, but it's the same Christmas story just wrapped in a flashier shell. You'll go "whooaaa, that's clever!" at times throughout, but in the end you'll probably be reduced to a subtle, "that was cute."

Verdict: Watch it.

While this film has many admirable qualities, the music (and subsequently the way it's used) is the real MVP. The amount of time that went into the sound editing/mixing must have been endless. However, it pays off in the end!

To people who aren't music lovers, this movie will still feel pleasing to the ears, rhythmic, and overly satisfying even if the viewer can't quite put their finger on why.

To music lovers, you will be in awe. It's not just that the soundtrack is strong, it's that the director and editors carefully crafted every single scene to make sure sounds synced up with the music, people were moving to the music, music was dictating the pace of the scene, etc. Everything feels intentional and every scene is enhanced by that intentionality - boosting the mood, timing, vibe, feel, and everything else that makes it play out like poetry in motion.

Okay enough gushing about the "audio" experience... the "visual" experience is pretty good too! There's a long continuous shot to start the film, intense action sequences (trying not to give away spoilers here), and a number of shots that are satisfying to the eye.

I wouldn't call the plot "deep" per se - pretty much what you think is going to happen makes up the backbone of the movie. The love story, albeit cute and musically heartwarming, moves quick.

The cast is stellar though, with each big name bringing their own strong presence to the screen. Eiza González is underutilized though with her one-dimensional character. There are some funny moments too in what is more of a dramatic, action flick.

It's a must-watch for all viewers - just be sure to enjoy it on the best sound system you own so you can appreciate the full eargasm experience.

Verdict: Watch.

If you go into this movie thinking it's going to be a realistic portrayal of a World War II hero, you will quickly be relieved of that notion. Sisu is an over the top Nazi killing gorefest that will appeal to the John Wick audiences of the world. The fight scenes leave a little bit to be desired, and the realism (without giving too much away) made many of us, myself included, laugh out loud in the theater.

Don't expect more than what you think this movie is going to be based on watching the trailer. It's an acquired taste this 90 minutes of low budget cinema.

All that being said, it's hard not to root for this warrior as he takes on despicable antagonists using what can only be described as the world's strongest pickaxe.

Verdict: Watch.