thomasheinrich Reviews

House of the Dragon: The Rogue Prince (2022) Season 1, Episode 2

Smart. Writing.

[10/10 · 30 August 2022]

It's crazy (and refreshing) what this rich universe looks like again when it's being realized by competent storytellers. Episode 2 is even more intelligent than the premiere, and this show is displaying immense promise. The dialogue and acting is superb, and the setup for next week is fantastic. The show is taking its time while not being monotonous, and it's a joy to watch.

Anyone who is letting the train wreck of Season 8 of Game of Thrones (or Season 7, for that matter...) deter himself or herself from watching this is QUITE misguided. Because we are back to rich, intelligent storytelling, and it's due to one thing more than any other:

Good. Writing.

Passengers (2008)

Original + Underrated = Worth a View

[8/10 · 14 September 2021]

Like others have said, I'm honestly surprised the rating is this low. The only thing I can think of is that people are faulting it for very much being a product of its era; this movie carries the formula for many mid- to late 2000s horror movies. However, I think its twist on the formula makes it stand out, the acting is very good and it's intelligently written. Without going into spoilers territory, I'm guessing the ending put some people off, but I personally think they stuck the landing and it makes for a great rewatch.

If you like a good, outside-of-the-book mystery and are constantly starved for something new to try out, I'd recommend this 10/10 times.

Oculus (2013)

So Underrated

[10/10 · 3 July 2020]

Rarely do you find a horror movie with a relatively creative idea, well executed acting and writing that isn't painfully forced. This movie is excellent at creating genuine tension, and you really feel like you're there with the characters. Although above 6/10 isn't bad for horror movies for some reason, I was shocked this wasn't at least an 8. This horror movie is tense, unique and most importantly ANYTHING but forgettable ... it'll stick with you, and that's honestly the mark for a great horror. In today's age, this is a true gem!!

The Void (I) (2016)

Very Underrated, Perhaps Misunderstood?

[10/10 · 19 April 2020]

This is a very underrated film, IMO. There is a lot more to unpack about the plot and lore, and I think the movie very effectively reveals things in a subtle and creepy manner. It's also a tribute of sorts to a lot of older horror, and I suspect this turned some people off who took it at face value?

This movie isn't perfect, but it's a refreshing new idea for horror, and it's got some good Lovecraftian elements. Certainly MUCH better than its 5.8 rating here and definitely worth the watch!

The Shining (1980)

Appreciated More With Time

[10/10 · 3 December 2019]

As each year goes by, people realize even more just how brilliant this movie is. The Shining unnerves the viewer in a way other horror movies can only try to; its surreal feeling, hidden messages and terrifying performances captivate you and leave you wondering long after the credits roll. Kubrick made a masterpiece, and analyses of this work of art are continuing to find more and more deeper meanings.

ANY horror fan, and really any fan of cinema, must see this gem.

Triangle (2009)

Smart Movie

[10/10 · 24 September 2019]

I'll try to keep this short so as not to be redundant; there are plenty of reviews that have already touched on the major attributes and issues of the film. I think the baseline plot is good enough on its own, but it's the mythology that is so subtly explored that makes this one of my favorites. Without catching the subtle clues AND knowing the myth being referenced, I'm not sure how you could get what (I interpret) is actually going on. Once said myth is considered, I think it provides a pretty shocking and well-earned twist toward the end that really ups the intellectual significance of an otherwise good but not great film.

People can dislike the film in spite of this, obviously, but I encourage everyone to rewatch if it seemed too bland. Triangle contains good acting, an appropriately complex plot and a much deeper meaning than many give it credit for. I'd recommend this one to anyone.