I went in watching the Meg, knowing that it was not the next Jaws. Even the director of this movie said as much. He said, and I will paraphrase, Jaws is still the best movie involving sharks, but he just wanted to make a movie that was fun and had Jason Statham kicking the shark's a$$. He did not disappoint. This was a fun movie. It had a few jump scares as well. Maybe it could've had more jump scares, but I enjoyed the movie for what it was. It was a good popcorn fun movie, nothing more and nothing less.
Reviews
178 Reviews
Hereditary
(2018)
One of the most disturbing horror movies in years
17 June 2018
A family is torn asunder when the oldest matriarch dies, leaving the living to deal with dark secrets and disturbing and tragic occurrences that follow after her death. THat's the simplest way I can explain the plot without giving away spoilers.
I've seen a lot of horror movies, and recently, following movies like A Quiet Place, Get Out, Don't Breath, It, and It follows among others, I've noticed that horror films have come back in a big way. All of the movies I've mentioned above were good films in their own right, showing that horror films are still as strong as ever, but none of those mentioned films disturbed me in the way that Hereditary did.
From the very first scene in Hereditary you are uncomfortable, and that feeling only becomes worse as the movie progresses in a slow burn. THere is a creeping dread throughout the film's entire run, which only increases and explodes in some shocking scenes that you might think you're ready for, but you are not. THis film is still on my mind after seeing it days ago, and that is a sure sign of a classic horror film in the making.
THe performances are all excellent, so they all stand out in their own ways. I can't say that any one was better than the other. THe actors gave it their awe, and you can't ask for more than that.
Some people will wonder why I've given it a 9 instead of a 10, and the reason for that is this movie takes a turn towards the climax which might not fit in this day and age. I understand it, but in an age of electronics it might not work for most people unless they are willing to think back in times when technology didn't exist as it does now. THis movie was a lot like 2017s The Witch, and takes themes from past horror films of the 60s and 70s as well. I'm looking forward to seeing this director do more films.
I've seen a lot of horror movies, and recently, following movies like A Quiet Place, Get Out, Don't Breath, It, and It follows among others, I've noticed that horror films have come back in a big way. All of the movies I've mentioned above were good films in their own right, showing that horror films are still as strong as ever, but none of those mentioned films disturbed me in the way that Hereditary did.
From the very first scene in Hereditary you are uncomfortable, and that feeling only becomes worse as the movie progresses in a slow burn. THere is a creeping dread throughout the film's entire run, which only increases and explodes in some shocking scenes that you might think you're ready for, but you are not. THis film is still on my mind after seeing it days ago, and that is a sure sign of a classic horror film in the making.
THe performances are all excellent, so they all stand out in their own ways. I can't say that any one was better than the other. THe actors gave it their awe, and you can't ask for more than that.
Some people will wonder why I've given it a 9 instead of a 10, and the reason for that is this movie takes a turn towards the climax which might not fit in this day and age. I understand it, but in an age of electronics it might not work for most people unless they are willing to think back in times when technology didn't exist as it does now. THis movie was a lot like 2017s The Witch, and takes themes from past horror films of the 60s and 70s as well. I'm looking forward to seeing this director do more films.
A Quiet Place
(2018)
A creative imagined little horror movie.
8 April 2018
I watched a quiet place with high expectations. I was not disappointed. The movie is clever, and reminded me a lot of Signs. It's clever in its creepiness and the acting from all involved was strong, especially for a movie where there is very little dialogue. The actors and actresses involved show us a lot with just facial features and gestures to get their points across without making a sound. The special effects were pretty good as well. The director, who also plays the father with his real life wife acting along side him, shows a lot of promise, and I hope to see more movies from him in the future.
Now you would wonder why I only give this movie and 8 star rating out of 10, and my answer would be that the movie contain some holes in logic. WHy have a baby in a world where the slightest sound can get you killed, without at least preparing yourself for that possibility? If it was a mistake, maybe explain it in someway like how you explained the creatures being their in the first place when you show newspaper clippings. Other holes in logic involved having things around you that are accidents waiting to happen, a lit lantern, wooden steps that could creak, leading the monsters right to you, along with other things involving wooden steps, as well as other things.
Overall I enjoyed this movie. It was clever in a time where many movies have become repetitive. It's nice to see someone try something knew, even though it still contains many of the normal horror tropes from other horror movies. I strongly recommend it, but want to warn anyone who sees it, the movie is a slow burn. However, at an hour and a half running time, it never warms out its welcome.
Now you would wonder why I only give this movie and 8 star rating out of 10, and my answer would be that the movie contain some holes in logic. WHy have a baby in a world where the slightest sound can get you killed, without at least preparing yourself for that possibility? If it was a mistake, maybe explain it in someway like how you explained the creatures being their in the first place when you show newspaper clippings. Other holes in logic involved having things around you that are accidents waiting to happen, a lit lantern, wooden steps that could creak, leading the monsters right to you, along with other things involving wooden steps, as well as other things.
Overall I enjoyed this movie. It was clever in a time where many movies have become repetitive. It's nice to see someone try something knew, even though it still contains many of the normal horror tropes from other horror movies. I strongly recommend it, but want to warn anyone who sees it, the movie is a slow burn. However, at an hour and a half running time, it never warms out its welcome.
A horrible mess of a movie
23 January 2018
Warning: Spoilers
I am appalled with this movie. There were a lot of unnecessary jokes that did not work. One single character, the biggest character in the series by the way, does things that go against everything his character would've done. A lot of the movie was padded with boring material, and the big bad villain is made into a weak an useless character that dies mid way through the movie. The storyline was weak, and a lot of things that happened made no sense. I understand why many people are down about this movie, but what I really don't understand is how this still has a 7.5 rating on Imdb. Maybe some writers were paid off to give this movie high marks as some other reviewers have said. I will say the special effects weren't bad, and the actors did a pretty good job with the material they had to work with. That's why it will get a rating of 3 stars out of 10 from me. Overall, it is a poor film that is way worse than even the prequel films.
It
(I) (2017)
It was a good movie. Well worth seeing.
18 September 2017
It was well acted, and had a lot of creepy scenes. THe guy playing the clown (Bill Skarsgard) was creepier than the one in the mini-series (Tim Curry). I enjoyed the comedy and the chemistry between all the leads. However, I read the book as well, and thought that some other scenes from the novel were cut that shouldn't have been. I believe the movie could've been scarier, and maybe the second half will be, since it will involve the kids as adults. I give it and 8 out of 10. By the way, I did enjoy the mini-series as well, but it wasn't as good as this movie.
John Wick: Chapter 2
(2017)
John Wick is good.
4 March 2017
I enjoyed the first John Wick, and I enjoyed this one just as much. It more detailed with some world building not seen as much in the first film, which introduced us to this character. THe violence is more graphic. It's like an onslaught that starts from the beginning and never lets up. THis is larger, grittier, and badder, and all in a good way. Keanu Reeves plays his part just as he should, and lo to anybody that gets in his way. THis film is intense, with action scenes that seem more realistic than some of the CGI that takes over other action films. Recommended.
Logan
(2017)
Violent dark movie, but good. Not for children under 17
4 March 2017
I enjoyed this movie. It is an extremely different change from the other X-men movies with it R rating. It is a very gory, with some pretty harsh language thrown in. THis is not a feel good film, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. The acting was top notch, and the characters were handled well. THis movie was more like a western then a super hero movie. THe tonal change is surprising, but it was a fitting end to Hugh Jackman's run as Wolverine. BOth him and Patrick Stewart were exceptional in their roles. I recommend it.
Absentia
(I) (2011)
Creepy and unforgettable movie
29 September 2014
THis was a surprising little horror film. Made for about 20,000 or so, it has more of a creep factor then many of the blood and guts horror movies that have been released in recent years. THis movie has no gore, but it was utterly terrifying in its own right, leaving most of the terror to the viewers imagination, and those films are always the best. Mike Flanagan, who later would direct Occulus, another good movie, is very good here.
Seven years ago Tricia's husband disappeared without a trace. For seven years she wondered what might have happened to him. With no information or clues to speak of, she has finally decided to move on with her life and declare him dead in absentia. Her sister Callie has come back home to help her cope with what she has to do.
As the two help one another, Tricia still continues to have dreams of her husband and Callie notices some strange and ominous things linked to a tunnel just a block down from where Tricia lives. These all come to a head when Daniel suddenly returns out of nowhere claiming to have been taken by an ancient force that is linked to the tunnel. It is not long after this that things go from bad to worse as Callie researches more on the tunnel and discovers that there have been many other mysterious disappearances, all of which are linked to the tunnel. I can not say anymore without spoiling the story. I will say that what happens makes for one of the most unforgettable horror movies of all time.
The acting by both Katie Parker (Callie) and Courtney Bell (Tricia) is awkward in the first few minutes, but improves greatly as the movie goes on. You start to care about these characters and their plight. Even the minor characters David Levine (Detective Mallory) and Morgan Peter Brown (Daniel) are good.
The movie was a little slow and seemed to drag. That might've had to do more with budget constraints then anything, but the payoff is a whopper. I recommend it.
Seven years ago Tricia's husband disappeared without a trace. For seven years she wondered what might have happened to him. With no information or clues to speak of, she has finally decided to move on with her life and declare him dead in absentia. Her sister Callie has come back home to help her cope with what she has to do.
As the two help one another, Tricia still continues to have dreams of her husband and Callie notices some strange and ominous things linked to a tunnel just a block down from where Tricia lives. These all come to a head when Daniel suddenly returns out of nowhere claiming to have been taken by an ancient force that is linked to the tunnel. It is not long after this that things go from bad to worse as Callie researches more on the tunnel and discovers that there have been many other mysterious disappearances, all of which are linked to the tunnel. I can not say anymore without spoiling the story. I will say that what happens makes for one of the most unforgettable horror movies of all time.
The acting by both Katie Parker (Callie) and Courtney Bell (Tricia) is awkward in the first few minutes, but improves greatly as the movie goes on. You start to care about these characters and their plight. Even the minor characters David Levine (Detective Mallory) and Morgan Peter Brown (Daniel) are good.
The movie was a little slow and seemed to drag. That might've had to do more with budget constraints then anything, but the payoff is a whopper. I recommend it.
John Carter
(2012)
Total disappointment
10 March 2012
John Carter is looking as if it will be another overblown mess of a movie. The budget was outrageous and somebody at Disney will probably lose their job over this. The characters were all shallow with no real substance and for a movie that cost 250 million to make, I wonder where all the money went because the special effects weren't that great either.
The story follows confederate soldier John Carter who finds a cave of gold and something else unexpected. It is a medallion which transports him from Earth to Mars where he faces off against many monstrous creatures and discovers a princess who's kingdom needs saving. Since he is from earth where gravity is stronger than that of Mars, he is able to leap very high and very far and is also endowed with superhuman strength which works on occasion, that being when it is only necessary for the plot.
I could not get in to this story and I could not get into the characters. THis was a dull boring movie. It may not be the worse film I've ever seen, but I expect more from Disney. THis was worse than the last Pirates of The Carribbean movie, and that's saying something. Not recommended.
The story follows confederate soldier John Carter who finds a cave of gold and something else unexpected. It is a medallion which transports him from Earth to Mars where he faces off against many monstrous creatures and discovers a princess who's kingdom needs saving. Since he is from earth where gravity is stronger than that of Mars, he is able to leap very high and very far and is also endowed with superhuman strength which works on occasion, that being when it is only necessary for the plot.
I could not get in to this story and I could not get into the characters. THis was a dull boring movie. It may not be the worse film I've ever seen, but I expect more from Disney. THis was worse than the last Pirates of The Carribbean movie, and that's saying something. Not recommended.
Chronicle
(2012)
Well Done movie
3 February 2012
Warning: Spoilers
What would happen if teenagers in real life gain superpowers. The new movie Chronicle, with a clever script by Max Landis, and smart direction by Josh Trank, answers that question.
Andrew (Dane Dahaan) is a troubled youth who one day decides to videotape everything that happens in his life. His father is a violent drunk, and his mother is very sick and bedridden, and he is an outcast in school who is often bullied. Using the camera as a sort of shield to hide behind all this sadness, him and his cousin Matt, (Alex Russell) with the persuasion of class president Steve (Michael B. Jordan) find a hole in the ground in the woods. THey go down and investigate and find something strange and alien.
A few days pass, and the three boys soon discover that their excursion into the hole with the glowing alien object has somehow granted them superpowers. The thing in the hole is never really explained, and neither is how they gain these abilities, but an explanation is not needed. Once again the secrets of how and why are left to the imagination, and that is probably best.
Instead of using their powers to go and fight crime, like the heroes in comic books like X- Men or Spider Man, the three friends use them to do what most teenagers would do if they had powers, by playing games and pulling pranks. Quite a few of the pranks are clever, and one of the best scenes in the movie deals with a magic show, which helps to make Andrew popular for a little while before things start to turn dark in the second half. I won't go into details on what happens, but if you've seen the trailers, you'll know that one of them turns dark, and the other two have to pull together to try and stop him from going over the edge.
The climax is a pretty good special effects wonder for the budget this movie was given. It does tend to go way over top, and will make people wonder how human beings can take such punishment, but I was still drawn in mainly because of the three main leads who are perfect in this film.
Overall, the first part of this movie up until the magic show is the best half. The second half is also good, but the realistic feel of the movie goes a little haywire. Still, I enjoyed this movie and recommend it. I think it will be a surprise sleeper hit.
Andrew (Dane Dahaan) is a troubled youth who one day decides to videotape everything that happens in his life. His father is a violent drunk, and his mother is very sick and bedridden, and he is an outcast in school who is often bullied. Using the camera as a sort of shield to hide behind all this sadness, him and his cousin Matt, (Alex Russell) with the persuasion of class president Steve (Michael B. Jordan) find a hole in the ground in the woods. THey go down and investigate and find something strange and alien.
A few days pass, and the three boys soon discover that their excursion into the hole with the glowing alien object has somehow granted them superpowers. The thing in the hole is never really explained, and neither is how they gain these abilities, but an explanation is not needed. Once again the secrets of how and why are left to the imagination, and that is probably best.
Instead of using their powers to go and fight crime, like the heroes in comic books like X- Men or Spider Man, the three friends use them to do what most teenagers would do if they had powers, by playing games and pulling pranks. Quite a few of the pranks are clever, and one of the best scenes in the movie deals with a magic show, which helps to make Andrew popular for a little while before things start to turn dark in the second half. I won't go into details on what happens, but if you've seen the trailers, you'll know that one of them turns dark, and the other two have to pull together to try and stop him from going over the edge.
The climax is a pretty good special effects wonder for the budget this movie was given. It does tend to go way over top, and will make people wonder how human beings can take such punishment, but I was still drawn in mainly because of the three main leads who are perfect in this film.
Overall, the first part of this movie up until the magic show is the best half. The second half is also good, but the realistic feel of the movie goes a little haywire. Still, I enjoyed this movie and recommend it. I think it will be a surprise sleeper hit.
Teen Wolf
(2011–2017)
A bit cliché, but still somewhat entertaining
20 June 2011
I've always been a fan of werewolves, and I decided to watch this to see what it was like. I already knew it would be a lot like Twilight, but what makes this better is some of the dialoque and better acting. If this is to improve and become a better show though, they need to surprise us with different things and do away with the usual clichés. Right now it is too much like Twilight, and everything that happens is obvious. I kind of know what 's going to happen before it does, and that takes away suspense. Compared to the 1985 movie starring Michael J Fox, this is less comedic and edgier as it should be, because the old Teen Wolf, if done the way that movie was, would not work in this day and age. I applaud the actors, and the two biggest standouts are definitely Scotts best friend Stiles and Allison, the girl who plays his love interest.
Priest
(2011)
Boring dull movie
16 May 2011
I saw Priest, and now I understand why it failed at the box office. The characters are boring, the action isn't much better, the scares are lame, and even the special effects seem cheesy. I was so disappointed in this movie, and after seeing Fast Five and Thor and liking both, I must say that I really didn't like this movie at all. It just seems lifeless. That's too bad, since I was really looking forward to seeing this movie. My recommendation for Priest is not to waste your time and money. I am sure there will be many other movies more worth your time and money. Hopefully when Pirates of the Caribbean opens up next week, it will be more along the lines of Fast Five and Thor.
Skyline
(2010)
Good Special Effects and some action but little else and a ridiculous ending
17 November 2010
Skyline is another one of those movies where the previews made it better than what it really is. The acting is sub par and the storyline and plot are nothing but a bunch of chase scenes as the heroes try to escape an extraterrestrial invasion. I will say that the special effects were good, which would've managed to give it at least a 5 rating from me if not for the WTH ending. Over all, I'll give it a 4. I've have seen worse, but I've also seen a lot better. None of the characters have the charisma of a Will Smith or Jeff Goldblum, who both made Independence Day a much better film then it would've been without them. Even the supporting characters in Ind. D were quite interesting, but none of that exists in Skyline. Sorry, but I cannot recommend this movie.
Suspiria
(1977)
Disturbing movie and one really nasty death scene
9 November 2010
I noticed that Suspiria is listed on a lot of horror movies top lists so I decided to buy it. I wasn't disappointed.
For a horror movie coming from 1977, Suspiria is a rather violent movie with one death scene in particular that could probably stand alongside the shower scene in Psycho as one of the best ever. However, it is not the violence alone that makes this movie work. Much of what makes this movie so disturbing is Dario Argento's use of color and different sound effects which keep you on edge throughout. He sort of makes it an art form, and that in itself is strange.
The acting wasn't much to talk about, but I wouldn't say it's terrible either. In fact, a lot of it probably had to do with dubbing upon release in America.
The entire movie left me unsettled throughout, and like I said, much of that had to deal with the color and sound. The death scenes, when they do come, are not forgotten, especially that one scene mentioned above which I will not spoil for anyone who wants to watch it.
This is not a great movie, but its one that will be remembered once watched.
For a horror movie coming from 1977, Suspiria is a rather violent movie with one death scene in particular that could probably stand alongside the shower scene in Psycho as one of the best ever. However, it is not the violence alone that makes this movie work. Much of what makes this movie so disturbing is Dario Argento's use of color and different sound effects which keep you on edge throughout. He sort of makes it an art form, and that in itself is strange.
The acting wasn't much to talk about, but I wouldn't say it's terrible either. In fact, a lot of it probably had to do with dubbing upon release in America.
The entire movie left me unsettled throughout, and like I said, much of that had to deal with the color and sound. The death scenes, when they do come, are not forgotten, especially that one scene mentioned above which I will not spoil for anyone who wants to watch it.
This is not a great movie, but its one that will be remembered once watched.
The Last Exorcism
(2010)
What would've been great was destroyed by a tacked on ending
30 August 2010
This movie made me angry. THis movie was moving into uncommon territory for horror. I mean this was looking like one of the scariest in a long time. It had tension, jump scares, good acting, creepy characters, and some gore sprayed on. I was really enjoying it, and then the finale. Arghhh. How could you ruin such build up and anticipation with a cop out ending that just wiped out all the good that preceded it. Some really good movies can still be acceptable with a weak ending, but this ending absolutely killed this movie. I won't give anything away, but suffice it to say that most viewers will realize what I am talking about if they watch this completely.
THe plot involves a girl who may be possessed or not. A preacher, who believes that exorcism is not real, decides to bring a film crew with him so he can prove his point. He believes that most people who might be possessed are really people who have deep underlining psychological problems. Of course this won't stop him from collecting a big pay day, which he will need to pay for his son's hearing problems by doing said exorcism. Let's just say that young Nell proves to be more than he bargained for, and you're never quite sure what's going on. THis works well. The first ninety nine percent of this movie has you wondering and questioning what could possibly be wrong with this teenage girl, while scaring you silly at the same time. Than you get the last few minutes, and I found myself wanting to throw something at the screen.
Overall this movie could've been one of the best horror movies in years. It has all the right ingredients for being successful in this genre. Alas, the ending ruined it for me and knocked about 3-4 points off the final grade. THat's how bad I felt that ending was. Not recommended.
THe plot involves a girl who may be possessed or not. A preacher, who believes that exorcism is not real, decides to bring a film crew with him so he can prove his point. He believes that most people who might be possessed are really people who have deep underlining psychological problems. Of course this won't stop him from collecting a big pay day, which he will need to pay for his son's hearing problems by doing said exorcism. Let's just say that young Nell proves to be more than he bargained for, and you're never quite sure what's going on. THis works well. The first ninety nine percent of this movie has you wondering and questioning what could possibly be wrong with this teenage girl, while scaring you silly at the same time. Than you get the last few minutes, and I found myself wanting to throw something at the screen.
Overall this movie could've been one of the best horror movies in years. It has all the right ingredients for being successful in this genre. Alas, the ending ruined it for me and knocked about 3-4 points off the final grade. THat's how bad I felt that ending was. Not recommended.
Piranha 3D
(2010)
Tasteless, but in a good way
22 August 2010
Piranha 3D is a tasteless and extremely disgusting movie that makes fun of the typical stereotypes that go with college students on spring break and has a lot of fun with it. I actually enjoyed the movie. Many of the actors play their parts tongue in cheek, with Jerry O Connell standing out the most.
Alexander Aja, who directed, has had some hits and misses with horror movies, but with Piranha 3D he has a small hit that has a good chance of becoming a cult favorite once it goes to video after its theater run. THis movie was funny and creepy disgusting all together. Some directors can't do both, but Aja succeeds.
Far from a great movie, but did anybody really expect a movie with such a title to be an academy award winner, Piranha 3D manages to succeed where many such movies have failed. As I said in the summary, it is tasteless, but in a good way.
Alexander Aja, who directed, has had some hits and misses with horror movies, but with Piranha 3D he has a small hit that has a good chance of becoming a cult favorite once it goes to video after its theater run. THis movie was funny and creepy disgusting all together. Some directors can't do both, but Aja succeeds.
Far from a great movie, but did anybody really expect a movie with such a title to be an academy award winner, Piranha 3D manages to succeed where many such movies have failed. As I said in the summary, it is tasteless, but in a good way.
Vampires Suck
(2010)
This movie pretty much sucked
22 August 2010
Vampires Suck really sucked. I mean for real. This movie for the most part was ineptly made. A few scenes worked, but for the most part most of them failed horribly. I did like the Black Eyes Peas scene and the fight in the beginning between the guy in the wheel chair and the father. There were a few others that come to mind, but 80 percent of this movie was horribly done and could've been so much better.
Not much else to say other than I'm glad I didn't have to pay to see this very bad movie. Than of course it was created by the same people who brought us Meet The Spartans which most people hated as well. These guys should never be given the production money to ever make movies again unless they actually learn how to make them.
Not much else to say other than I'm glad I didn't have to pay to see this very bad movie. Than of course it was created by the same people who brought us Meet The Spartans which most people hated as well. These guys should never be given the production money to ever make movies again unless they actually learn how to make them.
Splice
(2009)
Started out good, ended up not so good
6 June 2010
Splice was a movie that had a lot of promise. It seemed to be building towards something special, but got lost in an unnecessary plot thread that didn't quite work towards the end. THis specific plot started with a scene involving the creature and the character played by Adrian Brody, and it was a scene that didn't quite work because there wasn't enough of a build up towards something like that happening. Sure there were some scenes leading towards that, but in my opinion those scenes were not enough to take such a major step forward, not after he first showed disgust towards the creature at the earlier phases of its development. On top of that the movie goes even farther into absurdity at the conclusion, involving the character played by Sarah Polley and the creature again, taking much of the intelligence of the film out of the equation.
In my opinion, the director was onto something in the beginning but then took the story into an unnecessary direction that might've still worked if there had been some real build up to those points which led to the conclusion. Sure there were some signs, but really not enough. Instead the movie ends in what can only be called a total WTF moment, and it doesn't work at all. Not a horrible movie, but only average and not recommended.
In my opinion, the director was onto something in the beginning but then took the story into an unnecessary direction that might've still worked if there had been some real build up to those points which led to the conclusion. Sure there were some signs, but really not enough. Instead the movie ends in what can only be called a total WTF moment, and it doesn't work at all. Not a horrible movie, but only average and not recommended.
A Nightmare on Elm Street
(2010)
Not very creative, but not as bad as critics say
4 May 2010
The new remake of "A Nightmare On Elm Street" doesn't offer much creatively because it is basically the same story as the 1984 film with better special effects. Jackie Earle Hailey isn't given much to work with, and that is a shame because he was my favorite character in "The Watchmen."
The other actors weren't too horrible, but Thomas Dekker, who plays Jesse, seemed to over do it and made the character annoying. The two best teen aged characters were played by Kyle Gallner (Quentin) and Rooney Mara (Nancy). THis is a good thing because they are the two main characters outside of Freddy.
Like I said, the special effects were better, as they should have been since it's 26 years after the original, but with the exception of a few twists on the killings, and giving Freddy more of a background, there wasn't really enough for me to recommend this movie. The story, as stated above, was basically the same thing, and the killings follow much of the same pattern. Not the worst movie ever, but not good enough to spend 10 dollars or more in the theater.
The other actors weren't too horrible, but Thomas Dekker, who plays Jesse, seemed to over do it and made the character annoying. The two best teen aged characters were played by Kyle Gallner (Quentin) and Rooney Mara (Nancy). THis is a good thing because they are the two main characters outside of Freddy.
Like I said, the special effects were better, as they should have been since it's 26 years after the original, but with the exception of a few twists on the killings, and giving Freddy more of a background, there wasn't really enough for me to recommend this movie. The story, as stated above, was basically the same thing, and the killings follow much of the same pattern. Not the worst movie ever, but not good enough to spend 10 dollars or more in the theater.
Kick-Ass
(2010)
Bloody fun
18 April 2010
I've heard some people complaining about this movie because it involves a little girl who curses and kills bad guys at random. We have to take into consideration that this is a comic book satire, and is not meant to be taken seriously. It is rated R for a reason because little kids are not suppose to be watching it. The only problem I have with any of this is the parents that would take their small children to see this. That is completely wrong. Now here's my review.
I found Kick Ass to be hysterical and over the top. It reminded me a lot of Kill Bill 1 and 2, and I enjoyed those two movies as well. The killings in Kick Ass are graphic and appalling, but that's what the film is meant to be, a graphic description of a comic book series. I can include the movie Sin City, another good film, in this as well, and I can tell you that both Kill Bill films and Sin City are much more bloodier than Kick Ass. I don't understand the opinions from critics, most of whom enjoyed the Kill Bill movies and Sin City, who find that Kick Ass is a little too much for their tastes. That is being hypocritical, and that is not the way a critic should review any movies.
THe acting for the most part was well done. Nicolas Cage hams it up and does a good job while not taking the material seriously. I got a sense that he was copying Adam West from the old Batman series in the 60s, and he does a fine job. Aaron Johnson, who plays Kick Ass, reminded me a lot of Tobey Maguire in the Spider-Man movies in the way he handled his part. Both Mark Strong (Frank D'Amico) and Christopher Mintz-Plasse (Chris D'Amico/Red Mist) have good supporting roles, but the person that real grabbed most of my interest was Chloe Moretz, who play Hit Girl. Whenever she appears, no matter if she is just talking or kicking ass, she takes the role and runs with it, and just about takes over the movie where we nearly forget about the character of Kick Ass.
Kick Ass is an entertaining movie that grabbed my interest from the beginning, and never grows dull. THe humor is there along with all the blood shed. It is an insane film that keeps you watching until the end. It is not a great film, but I wasn't expecting it to be. It was just the type of action movie that we don't see much of anymore, even if the killer, most of the time, is an eleven year old girl.
I found Kick Ass to be hysterical and over the top. It reminded me a lot of Kill Bill 1 and 2, and I enjoyed those two movies as well. The killings in Kick Ass are graphic and appalling, but that's what the film is meant to be, a graphic description of a comic book series. I can include the movie Sin City, another good film, in this as well, and I can tell you that both Kill Bill films and Sin City are much more bloodier than Kick Ass. I don't understand the opinions from critics, most of whom enjoyed the Kill Bill movies and Sin City, who find that Kick Ass is a little too much for their tastes. That is being hypocritical, and that is not the way a critic should review any movies.
THe acting for the most part was well done. Nicolas Cage hams it up and does a good job while not taking the material seriously. I got a sense that he was copying Adam West from the old Batman series in the 60s, and he does a fine job. Aaron Johnson, who plays Kick Ass, reminded me a lot of Tobey Maguire in the Spider-Man movies in the way he handled his part. Both Mark Strong (Frank D'Amico) and Christopher Mintz-Plasse (Chris D'Amico/Red Mist) have good supporting roles, but the person that real grabbed most of my interest was Chloe Moretz, who play Hit Girl. Whenever she appears, no matter if she is just talking or kicking ass, she takes the role and runs with it, and just about takes over the movie where we nearly forget about the character of Kick Ass.
Kick Ass is an entertaining movie that grabbed my interest from the beginning, and never grows dull. THe humor is there along with all the blood shed. It is an insane film that keeps you watching until the end. It is not a great film, but I wasn't expecting it to be. It was just the type of action movie that we don't see much of anymore, even if the killer, most of the time, is an eleven year old girl.
Tremors
(1990)
A nice surprise
15 March 2010
Tremors is one of the better horror movies to come out of the 90s. It's really hard to call it horror because there is a lot of humor as well, and all the characters are engaging and seemed to have had a good time making this movie.
THere's a small isolated town in Nevada where the population is 14. There is only one road that leads out of the town and because it is surrounded by mountains radio waves don't reach so far. Its the perfect set up for a monster movie, and it is a rare monster movie that actually works for the most part because of all the engaging characters and the set up which leads to a good payoff. You actually don't see the first creature until more than 30 minutes in, and the movie itself is only about 90 minutes long. The director, Ron Underwood, realizes that a movie works most effectively when there is build up before the big reveal, and what a reveal it is.
Outside of the build up, the actors make this film work best with witty dialoque and great chemistry. The two main characters Val and Earl, played wonderfully by Kevin Bacon and Fred Ward, keep the show interesting and are helped a great deal by secondary characters which are just as good. My two favorites outside Val and Earl would be Burt, played by Michael Gross, and Heather, played by Reba McEntire of country music fame, who are a gun happy couple ready to take on anything that comes their way. In fact, as one of the other characters says, they are prepared for World War III.
The pacing is great, and because this is a character driven monster movie, everything flows smoothly and never becomes boring. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next. The actors, and the director himself, seemed to enjoy making this wonderful movie.
Some people will complain about the special effects, which are a bit dated twenty years later, but those creatures, which seemed rubbery then, still work in my opinion. THere is never an explanation of where they came from, but in the movie the characters have their own theories of where they might have come from. It doesn't matter though because it is all in good fun.
THis is a B movie film that works better than most B film movies ever do. Right now it has a 7.2 rating on IMDb which is really good, but I myself believe it deserves and 8 out of 10.
THere's a small isolated town in Nevada where the population is 14. There is only one road that leads out of the town and because it is surrounded by mountains radio waves don't reach so far. Its the perfect set up for a monster movie, and it is a rare monster movie that actually works for the most part because of all the engaging characters and the set up which leads to a good payoff. You actually don't see the first creature until more than 30 minutes in, and the movie itself is only about 90 minutes long. The director, Ron Underwood, realizes that a movie works most effectively when there is build up before the big reveal, and what a reveal it is.
Outside of the build up, the actors make this film work best with witty dialoque and great chemistry. The two main characters Val and Earl, played wonderfully by Kevin Bacon and Fred Ward, keep the show interesting and are helped a great deal by secondary characters which are just as good. My two favorites outside Val and Earl would be Burt, played by Michael Gross, and Heather, played by Reba McEntire of country music fame, who are a gun happy couple ready to take on anything that comes their way. In fact, as one of the other characters says, they are prepared for World War III.
The pacing is great, and because this is a character driven monster movie, everything flows smoothly and never becomes boring. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next. The actors, and the director himself, seemed to enjoy making this wonderful movie.
Some people will complain about the special effects, which are a bit dated twenty years later, but those creatures, which seemed rubbery then, still work in my opinion. THere is never an explanation of where they came from, but in the movie the characters have their own theories of where they might have come from. It doesn't matter though because it is all in good fun.
THis is a B movie film that works better than most B film movies ever do. Right now it has a 7.2 rating on IMDb which is really good, but I myself believe it deserves and 8 out of 10.
Shutter Island
(2010)
Scorsese delivers again
28 February 2010
Though not a masterpiece, Shutter Island delivers the goods and left me pretty much satisfied with what I witnessed on the screen. I don't believe Martin Scorsese has ever done a bad movie. I even enjoyed Cape Fear, which seems to be the movie which most critic's believe is his weakest film, and Shutter Island gives you what you want in a suspenseful thriller.
It's 1954 and Teddy Daniels (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Chuck Aule (Mark Ruffalo) are detectives investigating the disappearance of one of the inmates on Shutter Island, which is an asylum for the violent and criminally insane. THe problem is that Teddy has skeletons of his own in the closet, and it is these same skeletons that hinder his investigation somewhat because he has nightmares of World War 2 when he was involved with liberating a concentration camp in Germany. He also has dreams of his dead wife who was seemingly killed in a fire set by a person who might or might not be an inmate on Shutter Island as well. WHat is real, and what is not? THese are questions that Teddy asks himself and make him feel as if maybe he is becoming a little unhinged.
THe final act comes as somewhat of a surprise, but it was something that I saw coming nearly a half hour in when the first walking nightmare, as another character mentions, appears. Still, after the movie, I found myself asking some more questions, and they are questions I won't mention because I don't want to give any secrets away for those who haven't seen it. I'll just say that as a thriller filled with mysteries, this film works real well.
Shutter Island is a movie packed with suspense, and it delivers the shocks as well, keeping you on the edge of your seat. The score worked well with the suspense, and the acting, including two key roles by Ben Kingsley and Max Von Sydow as the doctors on Shutter Island, were all well done. Even the minor roles worked effectively to keep the pace and suspense of the film strong throughout the movie's entire run time.
With the exception of the finale being a little expected, I still found Shutter Island to be a very well made movie. It ratchets up the suspense and then shocks you even more. THat is the way thrillers involving mystery should always be handled. Not Scorsese's greatest film, but not a weak movie either and better than many other movies of the same caliber. THis is one that is definitely recommended.
It's 1954 and Teddy Daniels (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Chuck Aule (Mark Ruffalo) are detectives investigating the disappearance of one of the inmates on Shutter Island, which is an asylum for the violent and criminally insane. THe problem is that Teddy has skeletons of his own in the closet, and it is these same skeletons that hinder his investigation somewhat because he has nightmares of World War 2 when he was involved with liberating a concentration camp in Germany. He also has dreams of his dead wife who was seemingly killed in a fire set by a person who might or might not be an inmate on Shutter Island as well. WHat is real, and what is not? THese are questions that Teddy asks himself and make him feel as if maybe he is becoming a little unhinged.
THe final act comes as somewhat of a surprise, but it was something that I saw coming nearly a half hour in when the first walking nightmare, as another character mentions, appears. Still, after the movie, I found myself asking some more questions, and they are questions I won't mention because I don't want to give any secrets away for those who haven't seen it. I'll just say that as a thriller filled with mysteries, this film works real well.
Shutter Island is a movie packed with suspense, and it delivers the shocks as well, keeping you on the edge of your seat. The score worked well with the suspense, and the acting, including two key roles by Ben Kingsley and Max Von Sydow as the doctors on Shutter Island, were all well done. Even the minor roles worked effectively to keep the pace and suspense of the film strong throughout the movie's entire run time.
With the exception of the finale being a little expected, I still found Shutter Island to be a very well made movie. It ratchets up the suspense and then shocks you even more. THat is the way thrillers involving mystery should always be handled. Not Scorsese's greatest film, but not a weak movie either and better than many other movies of the same caliber. THis is one that is definitely recommended.
The Crazies
(2010)
Not Bad, but could've been better
27 February 2010
The remake of The Crazies was a good enough film for the most part. The acting was decent and the scares pretty good. The pacing was real good and keeps your interest throughout, but I think it needed a little more mounting tension. It starts out well, but becomes more of a shock fest near the end, and that takes away some of the movie's power.
After a quick scene of a small town burning at the beginning, we are pointed to two days prior where a baseball game is being played. One of the local residents, looking very much off, walks onto the field with a shotgun, and the local sheriff (Timothy Olyphant) steps forward after telling everybody to take cover. Trouble ensues and suddenly a small once peaceful town is thrown into a nightmare that they can't escape. You see, something has contaminated the water supply, and it causes people to go insane and start killing one another. How this all comes about, I will not say, but the town sheriff, his pregnant wife (Radha Mitchell), the sheriff's deputy (Joe Anderson), and a town friend (Danielle Panabaker) try to survive and make their way to the next town in hopes that it is not infected, but things aren't that easy, as our four protagonists soon find out.
Following in the footsteps of 28 Days later and 28 Weeks later, The Crazies is a movie about normal human beings becoming bloodthirsty maniacs after a virus has infected them. The Crazies is not on the same world scale as those first two movies, but the infected, just like those first two movies, are not really zombies at all, but just sick people. All three movies are metaphors on the real world and what it has become. Both 28 Days Later and 28 weeks later ratcheted the tension up and then hit us with the shocks. THe Crazies starts out in much the same vain but the tension is more like a whimper, and then the shocks happen. Of course this movie does contain a car wash scene that could put it right up there with the first two movies, but then little else happens to match that one scene.
As I said, the acting is pretty good for a horror movie. You do care about what happens to our four heroes as they make their way through this nightmarish landscape. Some have said their wasn't much chemistry between the husband and wife, but when you're trying to survive, some of that marital affection might just get thrown out the window.
My beef with the film was not the acting, nor the pacing, or even the gore and shocks which were very effective when used. What I felt after seeing this movie was that I was not scared enough, or even creep-ed out that much. Gore is good and all, as are simple shocks to jar you, but a good or great horror movie has to have more suspense. The Crazies didn't have enough of that. I will admit that it is better than most other horror movies put out recently, but I can't quite give it my recommendation.
After a quick scene of a small town burning at the beginning, we are pointed to two days prior where a baseball game is being played. One of the local residents, looking very much off, walks onto the field with a shotgun, and the local sheriff (Timothy Olyphant) steps forward after telling everybody to take cover. Trouble ensues and suddenly a small once peaceful town is thrown into a nightmare that they can't escape. You see, something has contaminated the water supply, and it causes people to go insane and start killing one another. How this all comes about, I will not say, but the town sheriff, his pregnant wife (Radha Mitchell), the sheriff's deputy (Joe Anderson), and a town friend (Danielle Panabaker) try to survive and make their way to the next town in hopes that it is not infected, but things aren't that easy, as our four protagonists soon find out.
Following in the footsteps of 28 Days later and 28 Weeks later, The Crazies is a movie about normal human beings becoming bloodthirsty maniacs after a virus has infected them. The Crazies is not on the same world scale as those first two movies, but the infected, just like those first two movies, are not really zombies at all, but just sick people. All three movies are metaphors on the real world and what it has become. Both 28 Days Later and 28 weeks later ratcheted the tension up and then hit us with the shocks. THe Crazies starts out in much the same vain but the tension is more like a whimper, and then the shocks happen. Of course this movie does contain a car wash scene that could put it right up there with the first two movies, but then little else happens to match that one scene.
As I said, the acting is pretty good for a horror movie. You do care about what happens to our four heroes as they make their way through this nightmarish landscape. Some have said their wasn't much chemistry between the husband and wife, but when you're trying to survive, some of that marital affection might just get thrown out the window.
My beef with the film was not the acting, nor the pacing, or even the gore and shocks which were very effective when used. What I felt after seeing this movie was that I was not scared enough, or even creep-ed out that much. Gore is good and all, as are simple shocks to jar you, but a good or great horror movie has to have more suspense. The Crazies didn't have enough of that. I will admit that it is better than most other horror movies put out recently, but I can't quite give it my recommendation.
One of the best in the Werewolf Genre
24 February 2010
Warning: Spoilers
An American Werewolf in London is a very good monster movie with special effects that were transcending at the time. The creature itself, unlike the ones in The Howling, another of the best, is a four legged monstrosity which is seen only in small parts, but those parts are shocking and outstanding. John Landis, the director of this movie, does what most good directors of horror films do, show you just enough to get your heart pumping, but never go too far. The old adage is still true, showing less is always more when dealing with horror films.
The plot is simple. Two young hikers are back-packing along the moors of England where they are attacked by a beast. One is killed and the other survives, but we all know what that means. The dead friend returns in visions looking like a walking meat-loaf as the surviving friend calls him, and warns that the survivor will turn into a werewolf at the first full moon and kill people. He also tells him that he must killed himself so that this doesn't happen. Of course David (David Naughton in the one role he is best known for) the survivor of the attack, does not believe what he is hearing even though he's been having disturbing dreams. To complicate matters, he has also fallen for the nurse (Jenny Agutter) that has been taking care of him while recovering in a London hospital, which makes it even harder for him to take his own life. Sure enough he changes at the first full moon and goes about his slaughter as a monstrous beast.
Like the Howling, this movie is known for being one of the best transformations from man to werewolf, and like its counterpart, I have yet to see a werewolf change that matches either, and that includes the newest Wolfman with all it's CGI. Also like the Howling, An American Werewolf has humor to go with the horror. Whereas The Howling has a few lines of comic humor, An American Werewolf has way too much, which detracts from the scariness of the movie. THis is why I have selected THe Howling as the better movie, even though both get high marks from me.
The acting is good enough in American Werewolf, and the scenes on the moors of London, which include the tavern called The Slaughtered Lamb, (nice touch), and London itself, look great. Its too bad that since the early 80s, no other werewolf movie has matched these two, and that is twenty nine years. Truly a sad thing.
The plot is simple. Two young hikers are back-packing along the moors of England where they are attacked by a beast. One is killed and the other survives, but we all know what that means. The dead friend returns in visions looking like a walking meat-loaf as the surviving friend calls him, and warns that the survivor will turn into a werewolf at the first full moon and kill people. He also tells him that he must killed himself so that this doesn't happen. Of course David (David Naughton in the one role he is best known for) the survivor of the attack, does not believe what he is hearing even though he's been having disturbing dreams. To complicate matters, he has also fallen for the nurse (Jenny Agutter) that has been taking care of him while recovering in a London hospital, which makes it even harder for him to take his own life. Sure enough he changes at the first full moon and goes about his slaughter as a monstrous beast.
Like the Howling, this movie is known for being one of the best transformations from man to werewolf, and like its counterpart, I have yet to see a werewolf change that matches either, and that includes the newest Wolfman with all it's CGI. Also like the Howling, An American Werewolf has humor to go with the horror. Whereas The Howling has a few lines of comic humor, An American Werewolf has way too much, which detracts from the scariness of the movie. THis is why I have selected THe Howling as the better movie, even though both get high marks from me.
The acting is good enough in American Werewolf, and the scenes on the moors of London, which include the tavern called The Slaughtered Lamb, (nice touch), and London itself, look great. Its too bad that since the early 80s, no other werewolf movie has matched these two, and that is twenty nine years. Truly a sad thing.
The Wolfman
(2010)
Disappointed, but the movie had a few merits
12 February 2010
The Wolfman started out well. I enjoyed the atmosphere of the movie, and it seemed to be building towards something for the first thirty minutes or so, but then all of the sudden it lost its way with a lack of imagination and a predictable ending. That is why I can only give it a 5 out of 10 or in other terms about ** out of ****.
THe plot is easy enough and follows a simple monster plot. Lawrence Talbot (Benicio Del Toro) returns home after learning that his brother has disappeared. Once there he meets up with his strange father Sir John (Anthony Hopkins) and his brother's fiancé Gwen (Emily Blunt) who was the one that wrote to him telling him about what happened. Once home he learns that his brother was killed, and hears stories about a beast that might've caused it and that the Gypsies are to blame. Trying to learn of his brothers death, he visits the Gypsies and soon comes face to face with the beast which attacks him and passes the curse onto him. The rest of the story is pretty obvious from there, so I will say no more.
I found myself getting into the movie, but then there is a secret that is exposed not even half way through the movie that becomes way to predictable and shatters any mystery that the movie might've had. I was expecting a little bit of imagination here, but it was not to be. Sadly this leads to a climax that is just plain ridiculous. The finale finds its way back a little bit, but it is not enough to save the movie.
The acting at first seemed a little off, but it does improve somewhat though not enough. Anthony Hopkins has a few good lines which makes you think there is more to the story then what there really is. If you've seen the trailers, which give way too much away in my opinion, you will not be shocked where this movie eventually ends up going. Hugo Weaving, who plays an inspector hot on the tail of the beast, also has a few funny lines, but the one character that seemed to take this material more seriously and acted the best would be Emily Blunt's character. I reacted to her character more than any of the others.
THe story itself was sort of choppy, and it bothered me somewhat. The first half hour of the movie and build up is still the best, but what follows goes where a monster movie of this caliber should never go, and it becomes silly and almost laughable. However, as I said before, the final few minutes redeem the story a little.
I loved the atmosphere, and I was glad they went to a more Gothic setting. Some scenes, like the pub, and the sets reminded me of An American Werewolf in London and the original Wolf Man. There were even some themes in the movie taken from the 1962 Hammer Version of Curse of The Werewolf. I liked that the director used these scenes in this movie, but it's too bad he couldn't use more imagination to make the movie as a whole work much better.
Disappointing, but not a complete failure.
THe plot is easy enough and follows a simple monster plot. Lawrence Talbot (Benicio Del Toro) returns home after learning that his brother has disappeared. Once there he meets up with his strange father Sir John (Anthony Hopkins) and his brother's fiancé Gwen (Emily Blunt) who was the one that wrote to him telling him about what happened. Once home he learns that his brother was killed, and hears stories about a beast that might've caused it and that the Gypsies are to blame. Trying to learn of his brothers death, he visits the Gypsies and soon comes face to face with the beast which attacks him and passes the curse onto him. The rest of the story is pretty obvious from there, so I will say no more.
I found myself getting into the movie, but then there is a secret that is exposed not even half way through the movie that becomes way to predictable and shatters any mystery that the movie might've had. I was expecting a little bit of imagination here, but it was not to be. Sadly this leads to a climax that is just plain ridiculous. The finale finds its way back a little bit, but it is not enough to save the movie.
The acting at first seemed a little off, but it does improve somewhat though not enough. Anthony Hopkins has a few good lines which makes you think there is more to the story then what there really is. If you've seen the trailers, which give way too much away in my opinion, you will not be shocked where this movie eventually ends up going. Hugo Weaving, who plays an inspector hot on the tail of the beast, also has a few funny lines, but the one character that seemed to take this material more seriously and acted the best would be Emily Blunt's character. I reacted to her character more than any of the others.
THe story itself was sort of choppy, and it bothered me somewhat. The first half hour of the movie and build up is still the best, but what follows goes where a monster movie of this caliber should never go, and it becomes silly and almost laughable. However, as I said before, the final few minutes redeem the story a little.
I loved the atmosphere, and I was glad they went to a more Gothic setting. Some scenes, like the pub, and the sets reminded me of An American Werewolf in London and the original Wolf Man. There were even some themes in the movie taken from the 1962 Hammer Version of Curse of The Werewolf. I liked that the director used these scenes in this movie, but it's too bad he couldn't use more imagination to make the movie as a whole work much better.
Disappointing, but not a complete failure.
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