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Anne-0016
Reviews
To All the Boys: Always and Forever (2021)
Copy/Paste Plot
I'm annoyed that it was the EXACT same plot as the last two-super cute in the beginning, a break up in the middle, and then a super cute make up at the end. Just substitute NYU for John Ambrose and you got the same movie.
I gave it a 6 because, like the other two, the cinematography, costume design, music, and actors were so damn likeable! Although, I would expect a Hollywood hair stylist to figure out extensions by now-the hair was driving me crazy.
Overall, I REALLY wanted to like this, but it just felt like I was rewatching the same movie over and over.
Holidate (2020)
Oof...hard pass
It was like someone thought up of a dozen random script ideas for a romcom (laxatives...), then slapped them all in a movie, and failed at trying to piece it all together with one plot. It was confusing and made no sense at times. Emma Roberts isn't very good at these character roles-she comes off super obnoxious and entitled. I couldn't stand the character! Why not make her goofy or awkward? Or even smart or shy? Or ANYTHING other than a size 2 hip millennial who whines for 120mins about how she doesn't trust men and is bothered by everyone around her. The male main character is also laughable. Btw, I'm tired of Netflix using the same POC as their side characters. Anyway, the idea of a holidate was a great concept...but the casting and same annoying "we're skinny beautiful white people with problems waaaah" narrative is exhausting.
Chemical Hearts (2020)
Slowly paced, but beautiful
Sure, the pace is slow, but man once the layers start to peel this is a beautiful story. The film goes up and down; making you feel for Henry as he goes from a genuinely caring teen to a teen suddenly struggling to find his footing. Both young actors did a phenomenal job, but I have been a fan of Lili Reinhart since I saw the scene in Riverdale where she is holding back tears watching Archie play guitar. Such a subtle moment in a script that she turned into gold. I knew then she was a diamond stuck in a mediocre teen cable drama. I was SO glad to see her get to flex her range in this film. Honestly, she was the reason I watched it, having not read the book. Overall, it's not one I would watch multiple times, but it's one I thoroughly enjoyed the artistry of. If you're looking for a film that you can sit back and appreciate the talent of those involved, this is a great pick.