Change Your Image
daisukereds
Still, I like to remember that no movie will ever deserve a 0, and much less a 10! Since no amount of effort will ever attain perfection, and in the same vein, should not be discredited completely.
I'll watch most anything, as I've learned to find little nuggets of gold everywhere. Never stop looking for that next story, camera trick or detail that can meet and exceed your expectations, or a film that will blow you away completely. Remember, you have not seen it all yet!
Reach out for any reason :D
Ratings
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Reviews
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962)
"You mean there's mooore!?"
Immediately reminded of 1990's Misery, by Stephen King. With its unsettling depiction of a bitter, resentful, and a mentally unstable woman who seems to hold her more successful sister captive. Offerings layered themes of guilt and bitterness.
Both leading ladies (Bette Davis and Joan Crawford) do an amazing job, so it is no surprise they are considered iconic and career-defining roles. Being in black and white certainly makes it more impactful, and the cinematography is noticeably interesting.
Seems like a very faithful adaptation of the horror-thriller novel, with very memorable and over-the-top moments.
But I'm of the opinion that the ending of the book is.. better? Taking place solely in that house (instead of the beach?), the ambiguity of Blanche's state and a more emotional arc for Jane (with her interrupted intentions). I can also see parts of the book being more unsettling than what is visually shown due to personal interpretation for some. I also found myself less invested in the character of Edwin Flagg.. I quite understand his role, and the necessity it fulfills! But I didn't find these scenes (particularly their execution) compelling or interesting. The interactions with his mother seem more suited to a more comical story (with how over the top their delivery and tone is). Surprised he was even nominated.
Nevertheless, the film's psychological depths make it worth recommending, but it's the stellar performances that truly elevate it and make it an even easier choice to suggest.
Juror #2 (2024)
"People trying to do the right thing.. and they can't see everything they're doing wrong"
A movie about morality, and the interest of benefit from the few involved. About the flawed process, and people's best chance at finding justice.
With a ~40 minutes of trial, and then jury deliberation. "12 Angry Men" this is not, but somewhat reminiscent of it. It has a simple premise that gets out of the way rather cleanly, with a very clear direction! Leaving the rest of the job to the viewer. It has tense moments, and it is well written. Very competently made, interesting cast of known-actors, and a pristine execution.
Personally, I don't particularly like "non-committal" conclusions to things.. and I found little to take away from it. Not to mention I found a lack of excitement or further revelations of importance hampering my enjoyment of it. Faulting its structure and the delivery of information. Your feelings on such a matter could leave you conflicted, or immediately determined.. so, it is a very "okay" film that might speak more to other people.
But I would still recommend it for what it is and what it wanted to achieve.
Watchmen (2019)
"I will never call you daughter"
Quite frankly.. this is impressively-written for a sequel to a story that didn't need it.
I like to imagine those involved were inspired by the original comic, and growing wanting to tell a story carrying messages that were meaningful to them. And while I applaud the effort, it has chosen a very particular known-franchise as its vehicle.. I admit it uses it well for that purpose! But the connotations and changes to THAT story (that felt complete) feel.. unnecessary? The resulting script could have been his own thing, telling the same message in a different way.. I wonder what Alan Moore would feel, but he clearly won't ever watch this.
I'm personally conflicted with questions of motivation of character-murder proportions.. specifically those involving Dr Manhattan. He was already hard to write, and adding more details only muddles his arc. Worse, is their take on Veidt and others.. so a veil of disapproval permeated my watching. The show is entertaining, and Irons is a great actor to watch! So I'm sure someone will enjoy it. I'm just not impressed, and somewhat disappointed.
Watchmen: Chapter II (2024)
"Can you contain the mmeltdowns?"
I just learned that there was a 12 hour Watchmen TV Mini Series that "animates" the original comic in 2008! What a shame I missed it..
And at least there, the often-rigid and just-standing-around characters make sense. Here, the modern adaptation doesn't really help elevate the story with an animated medium that doesn't take advantage of itself. Still, this visually serviceable adaptation continues and concludes issue 6 to 12 of the comics, as an impressive effort on how to summarize the much more detailed and interesting comic in 1 hour and 30 minute. Of course, things are lost.. but (again) works well as an introductory way to consume Watchmen, and in a much shorter format, matching the consistency of Chapter 1.
Makes you wonder the worth of someone rewriting and retelling someone's already great story.. into a more "bite-size snack"? Personally, it failed to make my "taste buds explode". Never compromise.
We Live in Time (2024)
"I can confirm to you, that on occasion, I do have access to complimentary Weetabix"
Two thoughts.
Not entirely sure what the out-of-sequence storytelling provides to the story. I'm of the impression it at least doesn't seem to distract from one's ability to follow along.. as the story is not that complicated, and while it stands out, it is well woven together.
I'm also not completely sure about what the movie was trying to say.. or at least, it doesn't seem apparent to me with one watch (which is probably all I'm giving this). I mean, it has some very heartfelt moments, great performances, memorable scenes, and VERY eventful.. and yet somehow empty (probably as life makes it feel sometimes). It does present ideas that I can see being discussed either way, hardships of life, and the give and take when two people intertwine. But is it more of an overlook than a vehicle for something more? It is quite clear that this is a story about her.. her choices, her struggles and what she leaves behind. There's also the idea of "look at what is in front of me now, instead of thinking ahead".
Anyways, always enjoy Andrew Garfield, and miss Pugh has proven to be quite talented in such roles. There's a lot to take away from this, and I can't see it being executed better. If this is your genre, then go right ahead.
The Thief of Bagdad (1940)
"And for a man with eyes.. the world is full of woman"
Like stories of its time.. it's quite messy.
But it is this messiness that is best traduced to unpredictability, and for some of us, a greater enjoyment of the medium. There's nothing like a different time of thinking to balance out modern scripting. It helps that it has a good structure and objective, so the unexpected elements help contribute to move its plot forward. And in these elements, I can see the many inspirations for Disney's Aladdin, as well as the early Prince of Persia games, and more! The thief Abu, the Sultan's daughter, the Sorceress Jaffar.. the giant spider, the sleeping princess, the flying horse, carpet and much more.
Quite enjoyable, and very impressive. I can see it sparking the imagination of many upon its release.
Rukku Bakku (2024)
SCRRAP ... "I had a really good time today."
Understandable "roughness" aside (which gives it a welcome quirkiness), it is pretty well done!
Has a great visual style, beautiful color palette, good sound design, comical editing, and some very impactful action animations. But more importantly, it tells a meaningful story of tender and weighty moments in less than one hour, with some very interesting characters and interactions. A truly memorable film.
I have an inclination to the ununderstood impact of choices that others can't ever see.. because they will never happen. How some things can only be appreciated when the idea of "yanking them away irreparably" truly sinks in.. and how only dramatic and traumatic events can help a person see that! I've always wondered how can you communicate that without it being too late. It's a thought-provoking crutch in storytelling you don't see a lot of.
Smile 2 (2024)
"It doesn't matter what happens to me anymore"
Stand out is certainly Naomi Scott.. runny nose and all. She delivers a very energetic performance and a wide range of emotions. She's good! And luckily, the script she found herself working with is also quite interesting.
A time of 2 hours might be stretching it for what it offers, considering the slower pace and the somewhat-repetitive content and overly-indulgent in parts.. but the last "chapter" of the film is so good it makes up for it. Taking the viewer on a nice ride, from the notion of putting and end to the franchise, to an incredible step up of parasitic proportions and cosmic visuals. Add to it excellent sound design, beautiful camera work and editing, plenty of scares queasy-inducing visuals.
I may not be a fan of the genre, but the praise is well-deserved.
His Three Daughters (2023)
"The only way to communicate how death truly feels is through absence. Everything else is fantasy"
This a very well-scripted and executed film about an upcoming death in the family, and the abyss that it leaves.. sucking those around to the center of it, for the better.
You know exactly how it is going to end, but it is what it leaves you with that matters! And what it sets out to do, it achieves with masterful craftsmanship by everyone involved.
From giving you a believable semblance of 4 different people's lives, how it captures some gut-wrenching sentiments, pain, the interactions between the well-performed sisters, that awkward feeling of people slotting back into someone else's life, and Natasha Lyonne's stand-out character gettings some kind "redemption" in the end. I also liked the "sound of the city" in the credits.
Very enjoyable! In its own way.
Red One (2024)
"I have no expectations of you, Jack, so I can't be disappointed"
A watchable "dark" fantasy/sci-fi/action Christmas movie, where the MORA entity (Mythological Oversight and Restoration Authority) hurries to rescue a kidnapped Santa just before the big day.
Mileage will vary! As they casted Chris Evans (subjectively, a very charming fellow) alongside the rock, doing the ONE thing he knows how to do.. a tiresome action-persona with no charisma! And unfortunately, the script doesn't do much to bring out their best. The tone is completely misplaced for what it is, and not to mention hitting you over the head with tropes and predictable elements, like "stealing candy from a child" and "being a bad parent" in an Xmas movie.. I wonder which way that is gonna go!
Still, the high-quality production, well-crafted visuals, decent CGI, and serviceable action sequences help fill in the gaps. The film leans into a more adult-oriented narrative, aiming to deliver a message for all ages. There's also some world-building, though I didn't find it particularly engaging. It is also worth noting that this seems to try a more adult-oriented narrative, with a core message for all ages and some world-building (that I personally didn't take anything from). Overall, doesn't feel much like a holiday movie, taking itself too seriously and lacking in the cheesy fun that makes seasonal films memorable.. and it has the rock in it.
Take it or leave it.
Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker (2000)
"Oh, what the heck! I'll laugh anyway"
Love the style, the designs, the art, coloring and the animations. This is a very visually-appealing look to me. The idea and mystery of the Joker coming back in the "Beyond" was also quite intriguing.
But there's one particular element, one that carries the weight of this film and is essential to the narrative's satisfaction, that ultimately feels too out of place. Had they managed to weave it in naturally.. I would have been impressed! It didn't need to be that complicated, and a sacrifice could have been made to tell the story. But I feel like they wanted their cake and eat it too, to the detriment of this.
It is still enjoyable for something that could have been better, with just a few changes. But ultimately, it is a canon I'd be fine with!
Trap (2024)
"I wonder what's down there?"
Wow. I'm honestly shocked at the excellently-executed twist this movie presents!
Where the Trap is to have an audience pay for a ticket and think they are watching a thriller, only to realize this poorly-constructed narrative is just a vehicle and an advertisement for M. Night Shyamalan's daughter. When Nepotism 101 is taught in class, this should be shown as an example. Sadly, everything around it is dull and poorly written. And by that I mean that rather than a suspenseful narrative, we're served a fragmented plot propped up by a weak script. Focusing on a single on a singular entity might have been better. And doesn't help that the plot propelled forward due to constant ineptitude.
There are SO many different ways this would have been much better. At least some of the performances are.. fascinating (but rarely in a good way), and the movie is visually well made.
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
"And now God bends to my will"
Self-indulgent spectacle.
The entire premise of Batman v Superman (in name and appearance only) feels like a gross misinterpretation of the original inspirations.. which they abused without any purpose. Instead of a clash of ideals, the film devolves into wanton destruction.
It's hard to enjoy a movie where Batman, a hero meant to be motivated by justice and restraint, ends up behaving like a villain. And a Superman twisted into an unrecognizable deformity. There's no joy or excitement.. just plans relying on irrationally, a lack of maturity and childishness. With an unsatisfying petty power struggle as its core, only to give way to MORE destruction.
In the original comic, Superman pleaded with Bruce, as they were originally abolished. There, the creator with a voice found a way to balance both sides in an interesting manner, and delivering an outcome no one expected! But one that made sense (along all the other plots in an over-charged comic). Still, that subtle nuance is entirely missing here.
Talented cast and crew bring moments of impressive visuals, choreography, and an evocative score, but these highlights can't save the film's fundamentally flawed foundation that is unfaithful to its characters.
Ultimately, this is a dark, joyless experience that might appeal to casual viewers and those that want a blockbuster that feels more like a grim war documentary. Instead of excitement, it left me bored, disillusioned, and questioning how this misinterpretation of Batman and Superman could go so wrong.
Batman Begins (2005)
"I don't need protection!"
Sometimes I forget how solid this entry is.. specially compared to what came after.
An impressively layered-script, great casting all around, and some very VERY exciting scenes to watch on repeat! You don't have to be boring to target a more mature audience. Sometimes, you can do both!
Instead of just having a violent-detective learning the ropes and chasing ordinary criminals.. they managed to present an impactful foundation with a high-stakes threat doing double duty.
Still, I have one grip with it..
How can something so close to perfection, still depict a Batman that (even if on a technicality) ends up killing? And at least twice! It's as if these scenes were like moths drawn to a flame (films can't help but have Batman murder someone), slipping through the cracks unnoticed, with no one stepping in to halt them. Impressive, really.
But what it gets right, has not been surpassed to date (2024*)!
Balancing a believable and charming Bruce Wayne, and an intimidating Batman. An Alfred concerned with his future, and a technologically-believable origin. A city of corrupt people, and much more. If at the time we only knew how right were these people for the job.
Batman Returns (1992)
"..with their erogenous zones blown sky-high!"
By wanting him to make a sequel and offering free-reign.. this is what you get! A marketing failure in the eyes of a big company.
It's obvious that Burton made another Burton art-movie with his uncompromised style, while disregarding and deviating even more from franchise-fan expectations in memorable manner. Kinks and horniness aplenty!
Supported by unparalleled creativity, stunning visuals (and matching camerawork) and signature twisted-world building.. and as a follow-up to his original take, it's everything you could ask it to be! Batman remains a murderer, sidestepped by more interesting characters, with lots of cool tricks. The story also has layers of depth and an interesting motif in human-animal duality.
Personally, there are two things that stand out : All Batmobile sequences (the Batskiboat is also pretty cool) and Michelle Pfeiffer. Who manages to steal the show.. on a movie with DeVito playing a fun mutant Penguin!! To me, she delivers the most captivating and fascinating "broken" character ever put on screen, and that is nothing short "stars aligning"
This is hardly Batman, but for what it is.. it's great.
Batman (1989)
"This town needs an enema"
Jesus Marimba! This is certainly unique and fun film. But an adaptation that fails to capture the franchise properly.. with a Batman with no qualms about murder (or destroying an entire factory), a seemingly-incompetent Bruce Wayne (and one that leaves a lot to be desired), and more. Though, even if not faithful, it excels in design, has a very commendable production, a more mature execution to what had been seen at the time, a great score, good lighting, you name it. And it's strange creativity delivers a memorable script! With moments like "keeping the city hostage with Beauty products", or Alfred making a SMALL mention of wanting Bruce to marry, not to die and to move on.. even the city wanting to hold a "festival" to get people outside (which, of course, gets taken advantage of).
For me, there's little to take away from the film.. as it presents a throwaway core of "I made you! You made me!" that doesn't explore the concept any more than it mentions it.
As a Batman fan, it's hard to be satisfied.. as a kid at the time, I loved it!
My Super Ex-Girlfriend (2006)
"Oh, you have invaded the female nation and spread your democracy"
A classic 2000's comedy movie, where it takes advantage of the popularity and over-abundance of superhero stories at the time (before saturation) and delivers a comedically-throw-away story. But surprisingly, its direction brings a very creative direction and fun execution! A powered character being a rather crazy and clingy woman. And instead of focusing on crime-fighting, the story centers on how such person would handle having a relationship with an ordinary man and the fall out, due to her circumstance.
Despite the generic premise, I enjoyed the creative scenarios and unexpected visual flair. Both Thurman and Faris appear to be having a lot of fun with the roles, enhancing the film's playful, lighthearted tone! And the ending was satisfying ending for such a low-to-the ground experience. Well made and enjoyable.
The Batman (2022)
"No more lies"
Yet another iteration of Batman. One that, intriguingly, hasn't quite decided what Gotham needs him to be.
This makes for a story where the titular character feels less central and more like a piece within a larger game of corruption/crime. While that might sound disappointing at first, it's actually a fresh enough shift that allows the movie to focus on building a playground-world around him (if a Trilogy really is coming). With greater attention on Gotham's criminal families, Catwoman and a uniquely-twisted Riddler feel quite relevant to this version.. even if it is basically creating its own canon from the get-go. Some may appreciate the new coat of paint, some won't.
While I enjoyed Batman being forced to do detective work through a more prepared opponent that misread him, he doesn't seem particularly smart (aside from being observant). It also feels longer than it needs to be, with pacing issues that dull some of the impact! Not to mention the lack of excitement and memorable "eye-candy"! The script feels too grounded and basic. There not much to be excited about on repeat watching. No toys, cool tricks or scenes.. just efficiency.
Subjectively, I find the casting of certain important characters (especially the lead) to be disappointing! Some strange changes (Thomas) that move this into a direction I wouldn't have taken, or an "unnecessary" scene at the end that disrupts the flow, that feels like rethreading what Nolan did.
As a start, this film is a competent entry.
But, is it good because of its approach to adapting the franchise.. or because of so many previous disappointments!? Moving forward, I would prefer if they give it a couple of years between this and future stories to have more impactful moments. I may seem negative, but I quite liked it! It is not perfect.. and I've seen too much Batman over the years (games and all), and I know what it could be.
Ideally, DC could produce multiple Batman narratives in parallel, each with distinct creative voices. If they can't build a "Cinematic Universe," they could at least support many strong standalone stories. If nothing else, fans could take all the best pieces of each attempt to create a Frankenstein-patchwork of memorable Batman moments. At this point, I guess that's the best we are going to get..
Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)
"Vengeance blackens the soul, Bruce"
When I was younger, this felt like THE definitive Batman movie (probably word of mouth).
Watching it again, I can still appreciate its strengths, but it stirs a memory of being something grander in my mind. Still, in just over an hour and twenty minutes, what this manages to achieve is nothing short of impressive.
It traces Bruce's early conviction, challenges that resolve by offering him an escape, and tarnishes Batman's reputation with a series of killings by a shadowy figure! All while tying it all to an iconic and beloved villain. These people REALLY understood the character.. and the managed to tell so much with so little! Pushing the boundaries of animated superhero storytelling, especially for a younger audience. Presenting mature themes and the implications of Bruce's dual life burdens, which also resonate with adults. While still looking great!!
The Phantasm didn't become a lasting thread in other adaptations.. but it remains, for me, one of those essential story beats that should be part of his timeline.
Classified (2024)
"Maybe this is a wake up call, of sorts"
Yeah, nope!
One of the dullest "action thrillers" I've seen in recent memory. One that is easy to follow.. but maybe too easy! With a strange and lethargic pacing that makes the first 20 minutes feel like an hour! A dull and lackluster execution, and a storyline that hardly goes anywhere. It's so underwritten it almost feels like a mystery!! As that expected layer of depth or a message is strangely missing. This is a Saban film through and through! With their level of 'effort' being all too present. It's as if the film was made on autopilot, coasting on bland tropes to fill in the space. If the sluggish pace doesn't lull you to sleep, the slow, melodic music just might. The action scenes could be skipped completely, as they don't help move the story forward.. much less keep your attention on the screen. Even worse, you could watch this on mute, and take away as much as I did trying to pay attention.
Don't even think about it.. it's not worth your time.
The Devil's Advocate (1997)
"No different than eating large quantities of chocolate"
If you enjoy lawyers in court, lightly exploring the morality of the profession, temptation, free will, how life crumbles under certain context, lots of nudity and more.. Devil's Advocate offers an intriguing, interesting, and very well written script (though, maybe a tad too verbose at the end). It is also well casted and everyone gives a memorable performance! It also contains an inescapable layer of catholic mythology that is used as the core of the film, and one that is used as the primary drive of its developments.. while not being the focus (thankfully). But as entertaining as it was, I personally didn't feel like I understood the movie's message.. or that it made me ponder about anything.
It is still an easy recommendation as one of the best of its genre at what it does.
Transformers One (2024)
"It didn't have to end like this"
As a kids movie, it is pretty good!
With an engaging conflict, interesting developments, good pacing, decent characters, some very impressive world-building and animation! A visual feast from beginning to end, and a very welcome shift in story-telling for a Transformers film.
But personally, I have issues with the movie : First, the lack of original or more impactful and weighty voices for the leads by the end! With the casted "voice actors" (unnecessary studded cast) being fine for their "immature" phase, but a choice that doesn't fit what their legacy represents. Secondly, what felt like a rushed and very unsatisfactory rift between Optimus and Megatron's friendship.. which is sadly the core and most meaningful part of the story. A turn that doesn't have a strong foundation and comes out of nowhere, for both sides.. is a giant shame. It made me believe that these two were once the best of pals.. but it completely lost me when trying to sell me on their fall out.
You could also mention how it simply forgets about the Quintessons by the end, as if they never existed! Leaving a plot thread in the air. So, as an adult fan, it is hard to ask for more than this. But knowing the limitations of the franchise, and what has already been told, I'm left wanting for something more impressive script-wise. Something more memorable.. and that's just not nostalgia talking, but coming from someone that has experienced its highest points from the past.
Still, it's an easy recommendation for fans of animation!
Venom: The Last Dance (2024)
"Now that's horsepower!"
What a strange movie.
At times, it shows promise, with a sense of build-up worthy of an MCU entry and a faithful comic adaptation. The beginning offers some visually compelling sci-fi scenes, it has a solid cast of people and creatures, and some good CGI throughout.
However, the majority of the film feels completely uninspired and underwritten. Dialogue remains subpar, and the plot meanders through trivial side events like a family road trip (where Eddie reflects on his life), sneaking into Area 51, an awkward dance with 'sexy' Miss Chen, and even Venom exploring the temptations of Las Vegas gambling, among others to fill in the space. And the main threat is so bland and uninspired that it almost feels insulting. Also very frustrating, is how Tom Hardy's character often seems to just stand around, doing little to drive the action. This lack of movement becomes grating, especially since he's also shown doing a lot of fast-paced and involved scenes. It's as if two studios filmed parts of the movie separately and then patched them together, resulting in a jarring inconsistency.. or they ran out of budget at some point. Oh, and an unintentionally comedic, romance-montage flashback scene between Eddie and Venom, complete with sappy music that feels so forced and out of place, it had me laughing out loud!
Amidst it all, little Dash McCloud impressed and completely overshadowed everyone else with just two seconds of acting of heartfelt and believable anguish! That was the most memorable part of the movie... which is somewhat sad. But at least isn't as awful as the Carnage entry in the trilogy..
Sweetpea (2024)
"You're not overlooked. You're just not good enough."
As it currently stands.. it is an incomplete story.
But so far, I've been quite impressed with how well Ella Purnell executed her role! Selling the "vulnerable little girl" while also the transformation into a more determined and confident broken person.. and properly setting up the things that could push someone into change, while keeping them realistic. There's something to be said about the developments in the story as well, which have been a bit predictable in some parts and quite refreshing in others, but entertaining nevertheless. The unmanageable messiness of it all gives it a tension that does wonders for it. Good pacing, camerawork, sets, all of it.
I would still like to know how it's going to end, as it feels rewarding.. but sorely incomplete.
If you can't wait, I'd be happy to recommend if you like the genre.
Canary Black (2024)
"This isn't answering any of my questions"
With a decent cast of familiar faces, passable action sequences, and some strange editing choices, this film delivers a safe/predictable take on the spy-action genre. It's a by-the-numbers experience that doesn't raise any eyebrows and is ultimately forgettable. It has a somewhat interesting change to the expected premise that doesn't really last long or pay off. Soon, we're back to a familiar "doomsday device" and world-ending MacGuffin plot that must be kept from falling into the wrong hands. An added attempt at a romance subplot that falls flat end up feeling underdeveloped and unnecessary. Lastly, the final 20 minutes are unexciting and predictable filler, dragging the movie to a close without much fanfare.
I wasn't expecting much.. but it still managed to be somewhat disappointing.