There's something about using practical effects and smart choreography that helps make certain films timeless. As apposed to today's highly computerised effects and story beats. Did you know this was the highest grossing independent film of all time. Or that it has a host of deleted scenes that were filmed to make the movie darker and more action and character driven than it already was. Creating this film was no easy feat, at the time you had kids who were fans on the cartoon and who only knew the cartoon. As well as fans of the popular comic book which was much more serious and artistic driven than the cartoon interpretation. Both equally valid but both contradicting eachother on several important fascists of the characters. This film superbly walks the line between both. Neither dumbing down the story or making it to graphic. The director on this film paints a bleak picture of new York and a disenfranchised youth who would fall victim to the allure shredder and the foot offer. But once on their radar these 4 characters, every bit as youthfull as their foot counterparts, embrace family and the beliefe in themselves that they can not only battle the foot and defeat this plague on their city, but also rescue their father figure, splinter, and help piece together not only where they come from but who they are going to be. Each turtle actor, both physical and voice do amazing jobs. They hut every beat, whether serious or comedic. Helped along by a tremendous Casey jones and much more down to earth april O'Neil. This rag tag group have to come together to defeat an ominous and great great portrayal of shredder. He's everybit as menacing as Darth Vader and more dangerous than the Joker. It hurts to look at him knowing he can dispatch a group of opponents swiftly and with out remorse. The filming of each scene brings you deeper snd deeper into this world. The colors of the turtles pop in the country and against the dismally lit new York streets. I can't say enough how well this film was both filmed, written, and acted. Deff in the conversation for best comic adaptation.
Reviews
42 Reviews
Outer Range
(2022– )
Wow, havnt binged an entire show in a night in awhile
25 November 2023
This show has it all. Tough American grit. A crime thriller. Great science fiction. Compelling story telling. And mystery. I was hooked from the first frames if this show. With his tough as nails physique to his family man values and secret past. Josh Brolin is excellent as the leader of the Abbot family. But that's not to say he isn't surrounded by just a perfect cast that each in their own right has depth and a great story. Which all cumulates on one faithful night. This propels the story forward going 100 miles per hour. But yet still takes time to show off the amazing scenery of its location, and it takes times telling the enigma of the story Erich keeps you guessing. No doubt this story is inspired by Mel's hole. A famous story which took place over months and years on the radio air waves of Coast to Coast am. Which I strongly suggest you check out. That's an amazing story in in of itself. Truly, I can't wait for season 2. And pass them damn potatoes!!!
Smallville
(2001–2017)
Could of been so much better.
6 November 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This show for all its positives left just a horrible taste in my mouth and it's sad because it could of featured one of the best Superman on screen ever. Tom Wellington was perfectly cast along with his nemesis Lex Luthor also being perfectly cast. Every other character was a typical CW/UPN teen who's good looking, but has zero depth as a character and prone to making drama out of anything. One side note is their initial depiction of oliver queen/ green arrow really helped propell the character and help get him his own show, separate from this universe. Smallville created it's own thing. Crafted its own superman lure. But every time they took a step forward, they took two back trying to make it connect with what we know in comics. Clark's story should of been done after season 5 and start his career as Superman. Lean into the world you created. Instead they kept making fan service decisions and ended up all over the place.... WITH ZERO PAY OFF. You never see him in the Superman suit. Instead we get a horrible mid 2000s cgi rendition of him. Ugh... talk about dropping the ball. Watch the show if your super young and super into DC and if your a girl. If not the Arrowverse is MUCH better. That has its issues too, but they atleast owned it. Anyways hope this helped...
Excellent
23 October 2023
This was superbly done. This film hones in on the TR3b or black triangles, that are US produced advanced craft. These black triangles have been flying since the 80's and this film explores their existence with numerous first hand accounts of seeing these craft. Numerous video clips and pictures showing the existence of this craft. Not only here on earth, with our atmosphere, but also flying through space and along the surface of the moon. This film highlights credible individuals both in the military, in the secret aircraft programs, and journalists who have covered this story for years. They lay it all out and is very well done and is very convincing. We most definitely have these craft operating today. Who knows what else they have now...
City of Lies
(2018)
Movies like this must be made.
18 September 2023
The unsolved murders of both Notorious B. I. G. And Tupac Shakur are two of biggest black marks on modern law enforcement and inparticular the Los Angeles Police department. The corruption that took place during the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s is so flagrant and foul a spotlight has to highlight it. There could be a trilogy of films regarding these 2 cases, and the fact this film was suppressed shows just how far reaching their arms are. Depp portrays Poole with Honor and vigor. The determination of officer Poole in trying to what is right and just should never be forgotten or overshadowed by how his life played out. I'm glad the film shows the trouble created for officer Poole and what he went through in trying to do the right thing. I'm also glad it portrays la pd as being corrupt. Honestly they didn't go far enough, but the viewer should get a sense of just how bad they are. Remember a conspiracy is only a conspiracy until its proven true. This film spotlights that. Its well acted, tells an important story, and hopefully will inspire others to come forward.
Mid90s
(2018)
Perfectly captures a snap shot of skate life in the 90s
15 May 2023
As the title says Johna Hill captures a realistic segment of a 90s trend that's endured till today. But to see the freedom we once never appreciated on display here is inspiring and timeless. To be out with your friends, no phones, or saftey net; getting introuble and experiencing life for the first time before everything was documented and set through the eyes of this youngster. The soundtrack on display here is perfect. Each song picked to frame each scene. Speaking of the film work and editing, all top notch. The gritty approach takes us on a journey in and around LA, exploring different locals through skateboarding and the situations each character gets in. Highly recommended for all those who grew up in 90s and those wishing to have a taste of the experiance of what we had back in the day...
The Cosmic Hoax: An Expose
(2021)
Follow the u f o phenomenon over the past one hundred years the lost century
14 May 2023
This film is one of the most comprehensive UFO documentaries ever put to film. Doctor Grier goes over the past 100 years of the UFO phenomenon carefully picking the most important dates in euphology and explaining them so that. Even the most innocent and hardened euphologist will gain great knowledge from listening to this. All work together doctor Grier goes over basically the last century due to the technology gained from these beings which has been hit by the United States government this. Technology could propel humankind to being a type one civilization. Basically ending all energy needs and propelling us further into a age of great Enlightenment. This is one of doctor Gray's best documentaries in highlights some of the best UFO cases over the past 1 hundrthey also talk about how. The identify aircraft from this. I highly recommend this to those just getting into the topic and even the most hardened euphologists. I give this film 9 out of 10 stars a must see thank you.
That's My Boy
(2012)
Return to form
26 April 2023
Throught the 90s and 2000's Adam Sandler entertained us with great comedy's with endless one liners and a funny premise which all the comedy revolved around. This film is a return to the Sandler of old. This film has endless funny lines, a crazy ass story, and one funny set peice after another. Not to mention all the cameos he managed to pull off. That's my boy rolls out a cadre of Sandler staples in both supporting roles and one off cameos. One such minor roll and brings the laughter each time he's on screen is Rob Van Winkle aka Vanilla Ice. The dynamic between the two is priceless. Then there's Andy Samberg who's been compared to Sandler countless times. From there sketches on SNL. To their musical prowess and silly characters each has cultivated over the years. This film is non stop and I recommend it to anyone who's fan of both leading men, fans of the old Sandler flicks and fans of a good comedy.
Bobby's World
(1990–1998)
Great cartoon
15 April 2023
Wow, this ran for 8 years! This is one of the many quality cartoons from the 90s which created the week day morning, week day afternoon and Saturday morning cartoon blocks famous and viewed by millions. The 80s might of started this trend, but the 90s perfected it and offered something for everyone. From a zanny kids cartoon like bobby's world, to serious afternoon drama, to appointment Saturday morning viewings. Homie Mandel here created a cast of chracters that interact perfectly with one another and provide ample laughs and bobby puts himself in enough trouble or excitement each episode to keep children coming back. Howie Handel's a majority of the voice work but there are several other great voice actors. If you have a young one, and I mean young, deff check this out.
Arrow
(2012–2020)
Was ahead of its time
3 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I watched Arrow right from the beginning to around season 5. I'd still always tune in for the crossover episodes which were always fun. Rating this, along with the other CW mainstay, The Flash is extremely hard. They both had 3 great seasons. And then went off in different directions than how they started. Remember this is 2012 when the only superhero show was small illegal. This show those first 3 seasons told a great story with the first live action appearances of some major DC characters. Of which they did a great job. But with each new DC mainstay, they had varying degrees of success. If they had limited the episodes or told a tighter story with more mystery for longer I think they would of been better off. But that still doesn't take away what they did accomplish. Watch the first 3 seasons of both Arrow and the Flash. You'll have alot of fun and revel in seeing some of your favorite DC characters.
Thirteen Lives
(2022)
One of the best
25 January 2023
This film keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole time. Not only is this a true story but the depictions of cave diving, the rescue, and everything that went into saving these boys is top notch and accurate to T. There are some amazing cave divers out there but few are considered the best. The fact that it wasn't any form of military that was called to save these souls, it was these British cave divers. Who do this for fun and to push the sport of diving forward. That was so interesting. Shout out to all the amazing cave divers from Florida too. All in all, great great film. It kept the pace of the film swift, exciting, and covered the many different aspects of this life and death situation. When the main diver says, there are seldom cave rescues, and are mostly cave recoveries it really conveys the depth(pun) of the situation. Seriously, look it up. Anyways 9 stars easy. Anyone who dives or enjoys a good solid film will enjoy this....
Glass Onion
(2022)
Entertaining but not nearly as good as original
24 December 2022
Warning: Spoilers
I was excited to hear about a sequel to Knives out, and we would get to see Daniel Craig's detective character again. But this was totally and tonely different from the original. Much less a gripping yet fun murder mystery like the first film. This one was more a revenge plot that kept you waiting for the mastery, that by the third act realized wasn't comming. It was acted great. The scenic location was perfect. But once having everything explained in one flashback, you could see where the film was going. The whole plot lacked gravitas. With such a great cast, I left feeling like I missed something that could of been truly great. And that's the real mystery. Why did they break from the mold of the original? Some advice, if there is a great first film don't let Riahnn Johnson come back or allow him to create a sequel. It seems he is always trying to subvert the audiences expectations and it doesn't work here or in another sequel he directed. All it does is leave people feeling disappointed.
Emily the Criminal
(2022)
The ending!?!
10 December 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Overall it was a good and suspenseful. Not uncut gems anxiety level suspenseful, but good. You really feel for this girl. This is a glimpse into the lives of millions of Americans who are good people but fall through the cracks of society because of our horrible court system and our corporate driven capitalism. Her assault charge can be easily overlooked and understood, but in the corporate world everything is black and white. She would of done great as she was obviously talented and different enough to add value to any business who'd hire her. But they don't, and no one ever will. So she turns to crime to live. Not to support any habit, just to live like a human being, and like her soon to be partner Yousef. The duality of two lost souls fighting to survive is not lost. This is America, everyday. We must strive to do better. I won't give away what happens, but it's beautifully acted and sucks you right in to the seedy LA under belly of kill or be killed. All you want to do is say common give her chance, but would you? Would your company? Either way the only gripe I had was the ending. At first I thought the rain washing over her on the beach was meant to symbolize a renewal in her life. But that last scene basically says she has learnt nothing and crime does infect pay. Which it doesn't, or won't forever. Many many many folks from all walks of life can attest to this. Eitherway I was gonna give it 8 stars, the story along with the acting is compelling enough. But the message it sends at the end isn't. So 7 out of 10 and I'm being generous so you watch it and maybe understand what life is like for others...
Wednesday
(2022– )
Soooo good I thought it was Friday
2 December 2022
What a perfect and contemporary take on the Adam's Family. First, the casting is inspired and looks closest to the original cartoon, but also honors the classic 60's show and the 90's movies. One of the 90s actresses, Christina Ricci stars as one of the many eccentric characters that inhabit this beautifully dark world Tim Burton creates for us. The asthetic scenery coupled with the location and costume design makes watching this show a treat. Every detail meticulously crafted to better the story and our own enjoyment. Ortega, who plays Wednesday is excellent. She takes what others have done before and really hone in and round out the characters potential. But she doesn't have to do it alone. As our mystery progressis the show is full of great actors bringing their A game to every outcast, classic character, or new hire. This is much watch. Burton at his best...
Beautiful Boy
(I) (2018)
A clean precise story of hell
1 December 2022
This film succeeds where so many films about addiction fails. It tells the story of this young man's and his family's life and the thrawls of addiction and what it does. It offers no gimmic. Nothing added to the story to punch up the excitement. The story is what many young men my age have gone through; be it opiates or meth or alcohol.... it doesn't give some random event or try to pawn it off on big pharma, though they are certainly culpable in many people's stories. It just tells the tale of our growth as people and part of our experimenting in our quest to develop into men. It's the same story as millions of Americans suffering from opiates and meth. And let's the actors and story make it memorable. Only other film to get it right in my opinion was Basketball Diaries. If only we had listened then. But alas, if your looking for a heart wrencher, or someone involved in addiction or recovery I recommend seeing this. You will understand it and appreciate better than anyone else.
Avatar
(2009)
Dances With Wolves but with Aliens
27 November 2022
It's dances with wolves but with aliens. Dances... is an amazing film so this film is good by default. The vfx is amazing and that's what makes this film a little above average. But for those that missed seeing it in imax 3d I feel sorry for you cause that is how this film has to be seen. Or you have to have the illest home theater system ever. Overall enjoyable, but predictable. The cast of characters are neither memorable or bad. They all move the film along at a brisk pace so it doesn't feel as long as it is. The real prize is the visuals telling a decent stoey. I hope the new one is offered in the imax 3d so everyone can enjoy it the way its meant to be. Either way 7 stars. 8 if you get to experience it and not just watch it.
Ancient Apocalypse
(2022)
Ghram Hancock fighting the old dogma of mainstream academia.
12 November 2022
Yes... been waiting for this. Ghram Hancock has been theorizing and asking the right questions for over 30 years, and has been shunned by main stream academia. But finally science has been proving Ghrams theories more and more. So much so it could be a whole show in itself called, "The stuff Ghram was right about." Randal Carlson is in it. And I want to give a shout out to BU professor Dr. Robert Shoch who's been saying this for years as well. Also Jimmy from Bright Insight who is doing amazing work and of course Joe Rogan who is having the right guests who ask us to question everything. Love it...
King of the Hill
(1997–2010)
It's funny because everyday life is funny
12 June 2022
King of the hill is genius. It finds its comedy in the mundane daily grind. Sure there are some whacky elements, but for the most part countless characters are fleshed out and seem more human than many live action shows. Not to mention for a show that ended years ago they certainly saw where progressive thinking was going and made fun of how crazy that way of thinking is. Hank is old school and does the right thing, or "he'll kick your ass," as he so eloquently says many times throughout the show to whacky progressives. For which many are greatful for. Think of a celebrity and chances are they were apart of this show. This is a solid show, it is hilarious, and finds it strengths in upholding traditional American family values and holding a mirror to the whacky left. Love this show. 10 out of 10...
Watch this one.
26 March 2022
If you've only given Batman v Superman, BvS, once, or havnt given it a shot due to divisive reviews give the directors a shot. This film fills in the holes and expands the story and characters enough that certain scenes mean alot more and certain views are more understandable. It's not crazy different from the theatrical version, but enough warrant a better score and ultimately make BvS a better film. Man of Steel, BvS Directors cut and Zack Snyders Justice League, when viewed in the order are a decent trilogy in their own right and enjoyable for the fans of DC comics...
Batman Ninja
(2018)
So different and great
20 March 2022
Wow. What a great film. The plot moves along quickly. Easy to understand story. But what's best about this film is the animation and voice acting. Along with the action. This is a beautifully different film. The colors and Japanese anami style all mesh together gorgeously. The action scenes are directed perfectly with fast paced movement, great sound design,and surprise after surprise. This film is not for everyone. It is like many of Batmans best stories, an else world's tale. DC always finds great subject matter in these, and DC's animation depth is second to none here. Anyways, I loved it and when your tired of the same old Gotham slug fest, give this a watch.
Nobody
(I) (2021)
I'm just nobody
13 March 2022
This movie is everything you could want in an action film. It's got a great simple story. A bad ass but easy going hero. A volatile bad guy. And some myth and allure to our protagonist. Great action set pieces. Really just marvelous. Alot of dry humor and witt. The story moves at a brisk pace. And some great cameo parts that are a little more than cameos. I gave it 9 stars. It's almost the perfect action movie. Almost as good as die hard. Seriously you won't be disappointed, check it out.
The Batman
(2022)
A Batman that's brand new but also calls back to many timeless tales of the character.
7 March 2022
The Batman is the greatest comic book film ever made. Let alone the best Batman film. Matt Reeves fleshes out a unique and intense story drawing on several classic Batman stories including The Long Halloween, Batman EGO, Batman Year One, Batman Earth One, Batman Zero Year, Batman Hush etc... Batinson was great. What a truly new and unique amalgamation of all these Batman from across decades of stories. He really did something special. Zoe Kravitz as Catwoman was excellent. She plays Year One Selina Kyle to a T. The Riddler was scary and was brought to life in a new interpretation by Paul Dano. This is not the tights or bowler hat riddler. Gotham City is the most unique it's been since the Burton verse. Wow... Gotham must be portrayed as a character in in of itself and they did that masterfully. IMAX is a must! This noir detective drama in the rain is a perfect call back to Batmans roots in his original detective stories. The last thing, cause I could go on forever is the Batmobile. This will be the new iconic look for years to come. Much like each interpretation inspires the batmobile for a generation, this one is no different. 10 out of 10. After having gone back to watch it after not seeing it for months, it's still as captivating and as new a fresh for a character that's over 80 years old. I just hope the new caped crusader show gets picked up.
Superman: Man of Tomorrow
(2020 Video)
Best version of superman
28 February 2022
This was a great film. The animation style was new and different and captured the action and story well. The story is smooth, includes abunch of Superman's rouges and does eachone justice with the limited screen time they had. It honestly reminds me of Superman Earth One but alot brighter and optimistic. Really great film and I hope they make more in a similar style and continue this story as well...
Archive 81
(2022)
I shutter to think that this series is as close to the truth and what ancient bloodlines of the elite really do.
14 February 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Wow. Talk about on the edge of your seat for every episode. I gave it a 10. Really thrilling. Hits all the boxes. Sci fi, fantasy, thriller, some horror. Just great stuff. This is what we imagine real life secret societies are up to, conjuring interdimensional demons. Love it.
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