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Alan Wake II (2023)
Disjointed
The sequel to Alan Wake (2010), the story follows best-selling novelist Alan Wake, who has been trapped in an alternate dimension for 13 years, as he attempts to escape by writing a horror story involving an FBI Special Agent named Saga Anderson.
I have been an admirer of the original game, which motivated me to explore its sequel. However, I found that the sequel presents a narrative that feels somewhat disjointed and becomes increasingly difficult to follow as the story progresses. While it begins with a serious and moody tone, it ultimately transitions into themes that may come across as frivolous and absurd.
On a positive note, the graphics are exceptional, with intricate and well-designed environments. Despite this, I felt that the storyline was lacking in depth. It appears that the developers attempted to extend a straightforward concept beyond its natural limits, which, in my view, did not yield a successful outcome. Overall, I hold a preference for the original game compared to this sequel.
An American Haunting (2005)
There's a reason why you've never heard of this film.
In 1817, when a couple is found guilty of loan-sharking, one of the victims curses the family. Soon, they experience terrifying events that lead to their daughter's possession by haunting demons.
The film boasts stunning cinematography that captures some truly atmospheric moments, and the cast delivers solid performances. However, the plot feels convoluted and muddled, detracting from the overall experience. The scare scenes, while initially promising, become redundant due to a lackluster setup. Despite its potential as a decent horror film, poor writing and editing ultimately squander the opportunity for a truly impactful movie. In comparison, "The Conjuring" managed to execute similar themes and scares much more effectively in later years.
Damages (2007)
Great Show!
A brilliant and tenacious lawyer is determined to win a lawsuit against the former CEO of a powerful corporation. Fueled by a deep sense of justice, she tirelessly fights for the rights of the company's former employees, using every legal tactic at her disposal to ensure they receive the compensation and justice they deserve.
"Damages" is an outstanding and captivating television series featuring a remarkable leading performance by Glenn Close in the role of Patty Hewes. The show's episodes are filled with gripping cliffhangers, frequent twists, and unexpected turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Rose Byrne also delivers a strong performance, adding depth to the show's compelling narrative. She grounds the show as the likeable and vulnerable Ellen Parsons. If you've never seen this smart and entertaining show, it's certainly worth a look.
Amateur Night (2016)
Bad!
Guy, a talented yet unemployed architect, reluctantly agrees to attend a job interview at the insistence of his wife. To his surprise, the position he is offered is not what he expected. Instead of delivering pizzas as he assumed, he finds himself serving as a chauffeur for three sex workers.
The movie started off promising, but it soon took a turn for the worse. It delved into mediocre territory with explicit scenes that were neither engaging nor funny. Despite being a fan of Jason Biggs, I felt like his character was a recycled version of his role in American Pie. The story lacked depth and failed to draw me in, leaving me uninvested in any of the characters. Honestly, I found myself wishing for the movie to end much earlier. I also couldn't help but feel that the rating on this platform may be inflated; I believe the 0% rating on Rotten Tomatoes is a more accurate reflection of the movie's quality.
Die Another Day (2002)
Cheesy & Unbelievable
The link between a North Korean colonel and a nefarious diamond baron, who is subsidising the creation of a high-tech weapon, makes James Bond investigate the matter. But his mission gets sabotaged.
I typically appreciate Bond films, but this particular installment ranks as one of my least favorites among those I've viewed. The overall tone felt overly sensationalized and contrived, reminiscent of an adaptation of "Batman and Robin" or "Scooby Doo." The quality of the acting raised questions, and the Bond theme featured in this film failed to resonate and complement the overall ambiance. I harbor uncertainty regarding Madonna's creative direction in this context. While the film could be moderately enjoyable, I found its tone to be somewhat contrived, and I tend to prefer the more gritty Bond films.
The Exorcist: Believer (2023)
I liked it...
When his daughter Angela and her friend Katherine show signs of demonic possession, it forces single father Victor Fielding to confront the depths of evil. Terrified and desperate, he seeks out Chris MacNeil, the only person alive who has witnessed anything like it before.
I was initially hesitant to watch this movie due to the negative reviews it received upon its release, particularly because I'm a big fan of the original. To my surprise, I found myself enjoying the film much more than I had expected. The pacing was well executed, and the possession scenes were both effective and genuinely creepy. Additionally, I was impressed by the development of the storyline between the father and daughter. While it's not fair to compare it to the original, I still found it to be a decently undemanding and entertaining film.
In a Violent Nature (2024)
Borefest
A group of teenagers accidentally bring a vengeful spirit back to life when they take a locket from a collapsed fire tower in the woods. The spirit, named Johnny, is seeking revenge for a crime that happened 60 years ago. Johnny goes on a killing spree to retrieve the stolen locket, targeting anyone who gets in his way.
I was thoroughly disappointed by this film. It failed to captivate me in any way. The storyline was so weak that it felt almost non-existent, and the lackluster acting only added to the overall disappointment. The dialogue was awkward and forced, making the viewing experience uncomfortable. I struggled to find any positive aspects in this film. As a fan of horror movies, I found it particularly egregious and lacking in any redeeming qualities. My attention waned throughout the entire duration, and I am truly puzzled by its positive reception.
Sting (2024)
Fun creature feature!
Charlotte is a rebellious 12-year-old girl who finds a tiny spider in her rundown apartment building. She keeps it in a jar, but it soon starts to grow at a monstrous rate and develop an insatiable appetite for blood. As her neighbors begin to disappear, Charlotte and her family find themselves in a desperate fight for their lives against a ravenous arachnid with a taste for human flesh.
I'm not sure why the rating for this film is as low as it is. This is a fun creature feature with throwbacks to 80s horror and some genuinely creepy and skin-crawling moments. The young actress playing Charlotte was very good and convincing. I put off watching this for a while due to the rating on here however its definitely worth a watch and better than most of the recent mainstream horror movies released this year.
The Gathering (2003)
Quite Underrated...
After a car accident in Glastonbury, England, Cassie Grant suffers from memory loss. The driver, feeling regretful, allows her to recover at a large rural home. There, she befriends the driver's stepson, Michael. While staying at home, Cassie becomes interested in Michael's research on a recently discovered area church, which leads to strange premonitions and gradual clues about her deeper connections to the British community.
I found this movie to be quite intriguing for several reasons. Perhaps it's the combination of the film's British setting and my fondness for 2000s horror films that drew me in. I've watched it twice, and I found it enjoyable on both occasions. While the plot can be a bit perplexing at times, I generally found it easy to follow. Christina Ricci's portrayal of Cassie was a highlight for me, although I felt that Ioan Gruffud's character lacked depth. The film boasts some beautiful cinematography, and there were moments that genuinely startled me. It may not appeal to everyone, but I believe this film possesses some truly commendable qualities.
MaXXXine (2024)
The style overcomes the substance.
In 1980s Hollywood, adult film star and aspiring actress Maxine Minx finally gets her big break. However, as a mysterious killer stalks the starlets of Los Angeles, a trail of blood threatens to reveal her sinister past.
Maxxine is a film that really emphasizes style but falls short in the substance department. While I appreciated the throwbacks to slasher and horror films of the 80s, the plot and execution felt a bit disjointed and lacked coherence. Despite this, the film's unique style ultimately triumphs over its shortcomings. Mia Goth once again delivers an enigmatic performance, though her character felt less compelling compared to the previous instalments in the trilogy.
The third act was somewhat disappointing as it didn't live up to the intense buildup. As a fan of the genre, I found elements to enjoy, but I couldn't help feeling let down by the less-than-epic finale, especially after the thrilling conclusions of the previous two films.
A Quiet Place: Day One (2024)
I was rooting for the cat.
When aliens invade New York City, a woman and other survivors must stay quiet to avoid attracting the attention of these creatures, who are drawn to any sound. The group works to find a way to safety in the midst of the attack.
I was expecting "A Quiet Place: Day One" to explore the origins of the monsters and provide more insight into why they are there. However, the film fell short on that front, as it didn't offer any new information about the creatures. One of my main criticisms of the "A Quiet Place" films is that they reveal too much of the monsters, which diminishes the scare factor. As a result, I didn't find many scenes to be particularly tense, and the pacing of the film felt sluggish in parts. Additionally, the inclusion of a cliché dream sequence jump scare felt unnecessary and detracted from the overall experience.
Although I appreciated the performances of the two lead actors, I found it challenging to invest emotionally in their characters. However, it's worth noting that both actors delivered strong performances. Surprisingly, I found myself more invested in the cat than any of the human characters.
If you were a fan of the first two films, "A Quiet Place: Day One" may still be worth a watch. However, I personally felt that the film didn't sufficiently justify its existence.
Thelma & Louise (1991)
A classic in every sense of the word.
Thelma, a meek and submissive housewife, decides to break free from her constrained life and joins her adventurous and independent waitress friend Louise on a spontaneous fishing trip. During a stop at a bar, a man tries to assault Thelma, but Louise intervenes and ends up shooting and killing the man in self-defense. This unexpected turn of events forces them to flee and go on the run, turning Thelma and Louise into fugitives as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
I recently watched this fantastic film again and I was thoroughly impressed by every aspect of it. The character development was incredibly well done, the performances by the actors were truly gripping, and the soundtrack was simply tremendous. Additionally, the movie was a lot of fun and kept me entertained throughout, without ever letting up until the famous climax.
Janghwa, Hongryun (2003)
Terrific!
After being institutionalized, Su-mi reunites with her sister, Su-yeon, at their secluded country home. Unsettling events disrupt their tranquility, leading to shocking revelations and eerie occurrences. The story escalates to a chilling and unexpected conclusion.
At around a quarter of the way into the movie, it struck me that I had actually seen the remake (The Uninvited). Although I'm a fan of that film and have watched it multiple times, I must say that the original movie surpasses it. The atmosphere in this original version was incredibly eerie, and the scary moments were understated and not reliant on overused jump scares. The soundtrack added a fantastic layer of tension, and the acting performances of the two sisters were truly outstanding. Overall, I found it to be a truly great movie.
Ju-on (2002)
I preferred the American version...
The eerie remnants of an evil curse and vengeful spirits appear to be deeply ingrained within a house where a chilling and brutal murder of a woman and child once occurred. Tragically, it seems that anyone who dares to set foot inside the house meets a grim fate and never emerges alive.
After viewing this movie, I was taken aback to discover that it didn't elicit the level of fear I had anticipated. Instead, it felt sluggish and rather foreseeable. Some of the intended scary moments actually turned out to be more amusing than anything else. In contrast, I've always found the American remake to be genuinely chilling, with a fantastic atmospheric quality. I'm not entirely certain if it's because I watched the remake before the original, but I would definitely recommend the remake over the original any day. While the original Ju-On film had some coherence, I found the sequel to be simply terrible.
The Gathering (2024)
A solid & entertaining drama.
"The Gathering," created by the same team behind Line of Duty, unfolds on a secluded island transformed into a vibrant party hotspot. The series delves into the experiences of a student who finds themselves entangled in a web of trouble at an illicit rave.
I came across this show that I found to be incredibly gripping and entertaining. The performances from the fresh, young cast were truly impressive. Eva Morgan's portrayal of Kelley was outstanding, and she truly embodied the role of the protagonist. Additionally, Sonny Walker's performance as Adam and Sadie Soverall's portrayal of Jessica were also remarkable. The storyline was engaging, and I particularly enjoyed how the different plotlines of each character were well-developed and well-written. I would definitely recommend this show to others, and I'm eagerly hoping for a second season to see more of these compelling characters.
Back to Black (2024)
A decent & respectful biopic.
Singer Amy Winehouse wrote and recorded the groundbreaking album "Back to Black" inspired by her tumultuous relationship with Blake Fielder-Civil.
"Back to Black" is a biopic that respectfully portrays the life of a talented but troubled singer. While it deviates from the typical biopic tropes, it may be difficult for those unfamiliar with the singer to follow. The film starts slowly, but picks up pace with a mid-way montage that could have been placed earlier for a better flow. Marisa Abela gives an impressive performance and her singing voice is outstanding.
Although I recommend the film, it doesn't offer anything new and at times, it struggles to depict Winehouse's story cohesively.
Poseidon (2006)
Thrilling, popcorn entertainment!
On New Year's Eve, a massive wave hits the Poseidon, a luxurious cruise ship, causing it to capsize. Amidst the chaos and panic, the passengers must find a way to survive.
I'm a sucker for a disaster film and "Poseidon" is one I've never seen, in fact never really heard of or knew much about. However this film delivered for me, the film is full on action and doesn't leave a moment for you to catch your breath. The special effects are fantastic and hold up amazingly, films released in 2024 don't even have special effects this good. It's a popcorn flick, nothing more nothing less, plot and character development take a back seat and the thrilling action scenes keep the film afloat. Recommended!
Cocktail (1988)
A fun and underrated film!
Brian works as a bartender in Jamaica, where he meets his mentor Doug. Doug challenges him to pursue a wealthy girl but things get complicated when Brian's girlfriend sees them together and decides to leave him.
I just watched this film for the first time. Despite being poorly received by audiences upon release, I found it to be both charming and fun, with some deep and touching moments. The film's underrated nature only fueled my curiosity and I was pleasantly surprised to discover that it was a hidden gem.
The chemistry between the lead actors, Tom Cruise and Elisabeth Shue, was palpable and their performances were utterly charming. I found myself rooting for their characters and was invested in their journey throughout the film. The story mostly stays light and entertaining, but also has some darker and serious moments throughout, which adds depth to the plot.
One of the standout aspects of the film was its ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments. It was genuinely funny at times, but also had some poignant and emotional scenes that left me feeling touched. The film's soundtrack was also noteworthy, featuring a mix of upbeat and nostalgic songs that complemented the story perfectly.
Overall, this film is an underrated gem that deserves more recognition. It may not have been a box office success, but it has gained a cult following over the years, and for good reason. It's a heartwarming and entertaining film that will leave you feeling satisfied and uplifted.
Twisted (2004)
Predictable Thriller.
After being transferred to the homicide department, Jessica Sheppard and her partner Mike Delmarco find themselves dealing with a serial killer who primarily targets people with a connection to Jessica. Despite the film's supposed twisted nature, there isn't much happening in terms of plot.
Only her mentor stands by her, but the complications run deeper than expected. The movie stars Ashley Judd, Samuel L. Jackson, and Andy Garcia, but they are not given much to work with in their roles. As a result, the film drags on for an hour and thirty minutes, and if you are not completely surprised, you will likely guess the culprit within the first twenty minutes. The San Francisco setting is appropriately atmospheric, but I found myself questioning the movie's $50 million budget since there is little action or elaborate set design. Even the finale is anticlimactic.
The movie turns out to be just a typical thriller and doesn't stand out. You can skip it without any hesitation.
6 Below: Miracle on the Mountain (2017)
4/10
While on a High Sierras expedition, a young snowboarder finds himself lost in a snowstorm. With no one around to help him, he must rely solely on his wits and survival skills to endure the bitter cold and harsh winter conditions. As he struggles to keep warm and find his way back to civilization, he faces numerous challenges and obstacles, including limited supplies, treacherous terrain, and the constant threat of hypothermia and frostbite. Despite the odds stacked against him, he refuses to give up and fights to stay alive, pushing himself to the limit both physically and mentally.
I recently watched the film "6 Below" for free on the streaming app Pluto TV. I didn't have high expectations and unfortunately, they were met. The film is based on a true story and while it's watchable, the acting is melodramatic and predictable.
Josh Hartnett delivers a strong performance, but Mira Sorvino overacts in almost every scene. The plot is your average survival story, and every twist can be guessed before it happens.
Doctor Foster (2015)
Gripping!
Dr. Gemma, a successful and respected professional, finds herself in a heart-wrenching situation when she suspects her husband of being unfaithful. Determined to uncover the truth, she launches into an investigation that takes her down a dark and mysterious path. Along the way, Gemma uncovers shocking revelations that challenge her beliefs and force her to confront the harsh realities of love, betrayal, and the human heart.
If you're looking for a gripping TV show to watch, I highly recommend Doctor Foster. The show is centered around the story of a woman named Gemma Foster, played by Suranne Jones, who discovers her husband's infidelity and sets out to exact revenge. The plot is full of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Suranne Jones' portrayal of Gemma is truly remarkable, capturing the character's emotional journey with depth and nuance. The show also explores themes of love, betrayal, and the consequences of our actions. All in all, Doctor Foster is a must-watch for anyone looking for a well-crafted drama with superb acting.
All of Us Strangers (2023)
Brilliant!
Adam is a talented screenwriter residing in a solitary tower block in the heart of London. His mundane life is interrupted by an unexpected encounter with his mysterious neighbor Harry, who sparks his curiosity and disrupts his daily routine. As their acquaintance deepens, Adam feels a strong urge to revisit his childhood home, where his parents passed away over three decades ago. However, upon reaching there, he is surprised to find his parents still living in the same house, unchanged and untouched by time.
This film is a masterpiece that employs a fantastical approach to delve into the depths of complex and profound emotions that arise from deep grief and love. Despite the presence of fantastical elements, the movie never loses sight of its focus on human emotions, which makes it a remarkable work of art. The movie is both gentle and powerful, effortlessly conveying grand themes such as loss, loneliness, fear, and most importantly, love, in a small and compact format that is both poignant and effective.
The movie's ability to capture the essence of these emotions and themes is truly awe-inspiring. It does so by creating a captivating and deeply moving story that is both imaginative and thought-provoking. The movie's characters are beautifully crafted, and their experiences and emotions are depicted with a rare sensitivity and authenticity that is seldom seen in cinema. The movie's cinematography is equally impressive, further enhancing the movie's deeply emotional and immersive experience.
Overall, the movie is a work of art that is bound to leave a lasting impression on anyone who watches it. It is a testament to the power of cinema to explore the depths of human emotions and themes with unmatched sensitivity, imagination, and creativity. It is a must-watch for anyone who values great storytelling, powerful emotions, and unforgettable cinematic experiences.
Mirror's Edge: Catalyst (2016)
A very underrated and fun game.
Faith Connors, who had been detained in juvenile delinquency for a period of two years, has finally been released back into the City of Glass. Although she had hoped for a fresh start and a chance to turn her life around, her return has been anything but peaceful. Instead, she finds herself caught in the crosshairs of a ruthless and diabolical leader who has devised a sinister plan to seize complete control over the entire city. Faith's life is thrown into utter disarray and turmoil as she struggles to survive in a world where danger lurks around every corner and her every move is being watched. Will she be able to overcome the odds and emerge victorious, or will she fall victim to the tyrant's twisted machinations? Only time will tell.
Many people tend to overlook this particular game; however, it's actually quite enjoyable and entertaining once you give it a chance. Despite not receiving the recognition it truly deserves, it's definitely worth trying. From my experience, I can say that the game has a unique and engaging storyline, with well-designed gameplay mechanics that keep the player hooked for hours. The game's graphics and sound effects are also top-notch, adding to the overall immersive experience. All in all, if you're looking for an underrated gem in the world of gaming, this one is definitely worth checking out.
Cat Person (2023)
Witty & Clever!
A young college student, who works part-time at a movie theatre, reluctantly agrees to go on a date with an older man she met online. As the night progresses, she begins to sense that something is off about her date. He seems to be hiding something and she can't shake the feeling that he may be a murderer. The student finds herself struggling to maintain her composure as she tries to uncover the truth while also keeping herself safe.
Picture this: a thought-provoking exploration of the stark differences between our real-life connections and those we form in the digital world. The lead actors, Emilia Jones and Nicholas Braun, deliver outstanding performances that will leave you spellbound. As the story unfolds after a typical relationship breakdown, the movie takes you on a journey of self-discovery and reflection. Get ready to be captivated by this gripping tale! Intricacies of human connection, both in the physical world and in the digital realm, portraying the ups and downs of such relationships in a nuanced and captivating manner. The performances of the lead actors are outstanding, adding a layer of depth and authenticity to the story. Highs and lows of in-person dating to a violent, psychological thriller. Fogel deals with this change of pace well, leaving an air of mystery.
Boo (2005)
An ugly, dated slog.
Jessie Holden is invited by her boyfriend, Kevin, and two friends, Freddy and Marie, to spend one Halloween night at Santa Mira Hospital, abandoned years ago due to a fire. Their friend, Emmett, is preparing the props to scare Jessie when he and his dog, Dutchess, are attacked by a ghost.
How does a film from 2005 look more dated than films from the 90s? "Boo" is such an ugly and dated-looking film with very few redeeming qualities. Confusing storyline, poor acting, cinematography, special effects, sound mixing and editing and just about everything else apart from a few surprisingly impressive practical effects. Avoid.