Sir-Final_Thoughts-No_Review Reviews

Jules and Jim (1962)

I liked it, but once is enough for me

[8/10 · 6 May 2024]

What can I say about Jules et Jim? Legendary director Francois Truffaut helms my 3rd favorite movie of all time (Bed & Board) and I'm trying to view his entire library. Seen The 400 Blows (Great stuff!), and this 1962 Truffaut staple was next on the list. Let me give you my final thoughts about it.

So Truffaut specializes in drama and romance, his forte. He really excels at it. One of the best. Alot of his best movies, like Fellini, are based on experiences he had growing up, which make for great viewing pleasures. Jules et Jim is what alot of Truffaut movies become after 1962. A budding friendship, that blossoms into a romance, but with astonishing twists and turns. Here, we meet Jules and Jim right from the beginning and how they become friends, and how they will eventually meet with the girl that completes their triangle, Catherine played by Jeanne Moreau. It ultimately becomes a tale of mostly lasting friendships, but also love, loss, separation, and other things set against the backdrop of World War I. A well acted movie, with great filming locations, superb direction in black & white by Mr. Truffaut with nice, personal touches that define certain scenes and a good cast all around. The first half was really fun.

My one knock on it would be that I don't think its something that I would do repeat viewings of. Its definitely formulaic a bit towards the end, and because of the storyline it leaves me a little unhappy. Not complaining at all, because its well made that's just a testament to how it is crafted that makes me feel that way. The mark of a great director. In the end though I liked it and I'm glad I can cross another Truffaut off my list.

Justice League: The New Frontier (2008 Video)

Pretty bland

[5/10 · 5 March 2024]

Justice League: The New Frontier is pretty much a direct adaptation of the comic book, DC: The New Frontier; almost page for page. Which in itself is a bit confusing because the sequel to that comic book was called Justice League: The New Frontier, which is the title of this movie; yet it adapts the other story.

Darwyn Cooke's art is the reason I watched this. He has a retro style reminiscent of the 40s thru 60s, and it's faithfully reproduced for this feature. Its nice to look at. Truthfully though, the story was plain, the choices for voice actors for Batman and Superman was so poor, Jeremy Sisto ain't Kevin Conroy that's for sure! It wasn't very compelling, the JLA are formed faster than slapping two pieces of clay together and claiming you have a work of art...I don't know...no more honestly needs to be said.

Pretty to look at, but not recommended. Read the comic instead.

Swiss Army Man (2016)

Better and funnier than EEAAO

[8/10 · 1 October 2023]

Where do they come up with movies like this? Its so wildly inventive, creative, original, bursting with color, and funny as F. Never seen or would dream of anything like Swiss Army Man, aptly titled by the way. Its these kind of movies that restore my faith in what can actually be made to surprise us every year.

How do you explain this too? Not only is it original in a very unique way, but I will say this. It's NOT for everyone! The jokes are really funny but they won't appeal to say your grandparents for instance. Its aimed at a youth crowd. That being said its about a guy, (the remarkable Paul Dano) he's trapped on an island, presumably by himself and he's ready to end his life until a dead body washes up to shore. Somehow this event provides the wildest imagination possible for an escape off this island and a chance to live another day. To say more would be ruining it all.

In the end it really is a reflection on life, an examination of alot of things in our personal lives when going through what we term the struggle. Second chances, missed opportunities, escapist fantasy, depression, loneliness, friendship, appreciating humanity and all its faults, building a future, even ending it all. Just to name a few. But what makes it unique is the way in which its told and alot of it has to do with Daniel Radcliffe. Brilliant! BRAVO! An actor that's come a long way. He's excellent in a pivotal role and it is admittedly tough looking to pull off acting like this.

It does certainly appeal to more men than women but it can be enjoyable if you're open minded to new things and don't mind some comedy that deals with subject matter that might make you uncomfortable.

It was after watching Everything, Everywhere, All At Once that led me to look for this. Team Daniels is a fantastic directing duo that specialize it seems in telling surreal, visual movies that attack your eyeballs in a good way. Trippy but fun is how I described that movie and same goes for Swiss Army Man. I cared for this alot more than EEAAO simply for the fact that I found it more fun, I found the chemistry between Dano and Radcliffe irresistible, and I enjoyed the weirdness of this more than the weirdness of EEAAO. Also great use of hippy style music/soundtrack including a very unique take on a memorable one hit wonder of the 90s that is used often to remind us of one of the main points of this movie really just adds to its charm.

Kwan and Scheinert, a directing duo to anticipate more of in the near future, especially now with their Oscar win.

Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

Certainly unique, eye popping to the MAX, and a love child/letter to films past, but like many I can't understand all the Oscar wins

[8/10 · 18 September 2023]

My quick two cents about this film. I didn't love it, but I really enjoyed it, does that make any sense? It has a bit of everything in it for someone to enjoy. A ton of inspiration taken from many films (The Matrix the most notable, little bit of Mr. Nobody maybe?, The superhero genre, 2001 for sure. Too many to name) and some really cool and normally not seen often quick brief flashes of other movies thrown about. Completely unexpected but relevant to what's happening.

Very difficult to describe this. Definitely a visual movie. An offbeat, original fantasy/reality blend, and surreal mind trip that plays out through the main story of one family's domestic troubles. A well drawn-out story that uses the multiverse to great effect and doesn't mind being more than a bit weird to take great advantage of this tool. It is a very WOKE movie, so if that's not your thing here is your warning now.

It starts really slow, almost to the point where you get a little impatient but after the first fifteen minutes, time to hit the fast forward button people literally. It loses a bit of steam towards the end but it leads to a satisfying conclusion.

Here's where I'm a bit lost, the academy awards domination. Michelle Yeoh is an amazing actress, truly enjoyed all the movies I've seen her in. I couldn't be more proud for her to win an academy award for Best Actress. The rest are head scratchers, I'm mostly unfamiliar with the other nominees other than The Banshees Of Inisherin honestly. Jamie Lee Curtis? She's hardly in this. Shocking! Stephanie Hsu got robbed. Ke Huy Quan? I don't know.... the directors, maybe? Best Picture? Really?? Best Original Screenplay and Film Editing, now that I would do all day.

A great cast selection, mixing in great veterans with some relative newcomers that have a great showcase for all their talents. Good soundtrack. As original and colorful as a movie can be, funny (Waymond and Jobu Chewbacca LOL), sad, emotional, touching and very self-aware. A very fun movie, definitely not for all tastes but perhaps the one that will be the most noteworthy release of 2022. And yes, this is one of those you have to watch more than once. Its just built that way.

Black Adam (2022)

Struggles to find its identity in the first half, but picks up some steam and is much more enjoyable in the second half

[5/10 · 18 September 2023]

There's alot to like about this film and there's alot to dislike, in equal portions. It deserves a 6, but don't get me wrong, this film has heart.

What I didn't like? The first hour is not good at all. It feels lost in establishment. Its a real life response to if a character like Black Adam would exist in the real world, and our natural response to dealing with such a threat. Its basically an arcade beat em up disguised as a movie with really questionable soundtrack choices, and a tip of the hat to a classic film that has no association with anything going on here at all. A real head scratcher.

The second half I liked more. Once it finds its own identity, it really starts to take off and gets fun. It presented a bit more depth, a bit more story and most importantly, some heart. If you have the patience to stick with it, you get somewhat rewarded. Similar to Eternals; rough at first but gets a wee bit better as it progresses.

The Rock was a good choice in my opinion for Black Adam, and the direction from Collet-Serra is actually pretty decent. My favorite parts were definitely Pierce Brosnan and his character of Doctor Fate, awesome! Plus the comedy, its actually funny and I found myself laughing quite a bit.

A testerone fueled action flick, you get lots of it; that's weakened by a poor start and if you're by now aware, a doomed film with possibly no future. Whether its Dwayne Johnson or the poor state of the DCU in general in 2023. Who knows?

Paths of Glory (1957)

The Stanley Kubrick vision we've come to understand began right here as early as 1957. STUNNING!

[10/10 · 8 September 2023]

I've seen A Clockwork Orange, I've seen 2001: A Space Odyssey, Full Metal Jacket is my 3rd favorite movie of all time! Eyes Wide Shut, Barry Lyndon, Spartacus, and pieces of The Shining. That and Dr. Strangelove, The Killing and Lolita are the only ones I need to watch left.

What I'm getting at is we all have a sense of what to expect from Stanley Kubrick's movies, an unparalleled and unique vision seemingly from an otherworldly perspective but definitely human. Wanna know where I think it starts? As early as 1957 in this brilliant black & white movie called Paths Of Glory.

Kirk Douglas, a 40s and 50s favorite of mine is Colonel Dax, who during World War I unwillingly gets sent a direct order from his French Generals to claim an Ant Hill that's under heavy guard by the Germans. A clearly pointed out several times suicide mission, but nonetheless believed to be a turning point in winning the war for France. Despite objection, the Generals pressure Dax to carry out their orders, and he reluctantly accepts knowing full well himself that its a lost cause. That this was based on a true story is something in itself! WOW!

That Kubrick developed the set up and framing and positioning of his shots so meticulously throughout this movie so young in life and his career is a testimony to his raw, natural talent. The atmosphere and uneasy tension he became known for is here on full display. The scene with the reconnaissance team, for example. Colonel Dax's walk through the troops, especially in black & and white, is all world foreshadowing of what's to come. His obsession with mentally deranged characters with no remorse and his awesome use of music to build suspense, its all here. I can't praise this movie enough especially for Kubrick fans.

The acting from EVERYONE is top rate stuff, really magnificent! A nice split for many of the fine actors here to get a chance to shine. I loved it! For a war/anti-war film, even for 1957 this feels slightly ahead of its time. Its made and paced unlike other war films of the 50s, another nod to Kubrick displaying his mastery again. The script was wonderfully written and offered alot for him to play with. No weak spots in my opinion, a really solid ending, and certainly rewatchable. A compelling work of art.

Strangers in the Night (1944)

Easily predictable and lackluster

[4/10 · 8 September 2023]

Servicable at best film-noir that doesn't quite resonate with me. Strangers In the Night deals with a recovering GI, whose road back to full health was strengthened by letters from a female pen pal whom he has never actually met. Their correspondence begins when he obtains a book, whose previous owner, a "Rosemary" leaves her mailing address and some kind words within, in hopes that the next owner will enjoy it as much as she did. He decides to write, she replies back and through time a romance begins to blossom.

Once he is discharged, naturally him and Rosemary have arranged to finally meet and that's when Strangers In the Night really begins.

It really is predictable within the first 20 minutes, I hate to be a stickler, but its full of plot holes and doesn't have alot of build up and seriously lacks in suspense. Notable really if only for Anthony Mann as director who is pretty darn good.

Its missing alot of ingredients that define what works best in film-noir movies. A nice title for the genre but doesn't aptly fit what's going on here.

Dead Reckoning (1946)

A film-noir must. All the right ingredients.

[9/10 · 8 September 2023]

Humphrey Bogart and Lizabeth Scott's Dead Reckoning. Two figureheads of the film-noir genre. Directed by John Cromwell. It's a must if you are a fan of film-noir, particularly the classics that came throughout the mid to late 40s.

It really, in my honest opinion, resembles the setup and execution of another fine film-noir from 2 years prior, "Murder, My Sweet" which is fine because these are what draw me. Narration (lots of it), grit, shadow (lots of it), mystery, tough supporting characters, a femme fatale, double-crosses, tense situations, crackling black & white, everything!

Bogart can do these movies in his sleep by now, Lizabeth Scott's is awesome, its the script that didn't do me enough justice to rightly give this the 10 it deserves, it needed to be tweaked a pinch here and there (not really much though) to really have sealed the deal here. Stronger in the 2nd half than the first. All in all, a very well crafted film and superior effort from all involved. Recommended.

Star Trek (1966–1969)

An irreplaceable one-of-a-kind childhood favorite, ALWAYS BOLDLY GOING WHERE NO MAN HAS GONE BEFORE

[10/10 · 2 September 2023]

One of my favorite and most memorable tv shows as a kid, Star Trek was responsible for my transition from cartoons to learning more about shows aimed at adults. An endlessly praised (by most) sci-fi grand design of the highest caliber! Truly unbelievable being produced in the late 60s, talk about ahead of its time! It practically made household names of its entire cast. And let's be honest, its the real inspiration for, but will forever live in the shadow of Star Wars even though George Lucas will tell you its Akira Kurosawa's The Hidden Fortress every time.

3 all too quick seasons, 79 total episodes with 1 pilot. Some odd curveballs thrown into the mix like "Charlie X", "A Private Little War", "A Piece Of the Action", "Tomorrow Is Yesterday", "Patterns Of Force", and "Assignment: Earth" but some really compelling, brain twisting episodes such as "The Corbomite Maneuver", "The Tholian Web", "Wink Of An Eye", "By Any Other Name", "The Man Trap", "Return To Tomorrow" and Harlan Ellison's very, very popular "The City On the Edge of Forever" just to name a few.. Fun fact, the episode "Space Seed" continues close to 15 years later in the motion picture Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan.

My favorite episodes are "The Gamesters of Triskelion", "All Our Yesterdays" and "Amok Time" my absolute #1, a must see! And the only time you will visit the amazing planet of Vulcan on this show. A truly rare experience for such a key character. Star Trek proved it can pump out some serious noteworthy tv. As a true fan I can honestly tell you from experience not to miss even the lower rated episodes like "Spock's Brain", it invokes some serious emotion, "The Lights Of Zetar" is a great Scotty spotlight story, and "The Paradise Syndrome" has a trippy set-up and offers up a nice what if? Story.. and I even have a soft spot for "The Empath", nice ending.

Season 3 slashes the budget considerably and its quite noticable, but it's certainly the stand out of all 3, it contains the most banned episodes of the series from future re-run syndication, but mixes in some unique and thought provoking stories.

And its true what you've heard, ALOT of no-name redshirts are literally led to the slaughter which became in its own way a recurring gag, and Captain Kirk's playboy persona and charm in melting the ladies is on full overdrive. The man doesn't mind a little cross-breeding.

What more can I say, a sci-fi masterpiece, a staple in television and pop culture history. It introduced new and highly original concepts and ideas that forever changed the science fiction genre and spawned literally endless imitators, and it gave us William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy and a great supporting cast of wonderful people in unforgettable roles. A monumental moment in a young teenager's life. Thank you Star Trek, thank you Gene Roddenberry, thank you Space Channel. Forever grateful!

And don't forget about Star Trek: The Animated Series, a fair companion piece.

MAY YOU LIVE LONG AND PROSPER!

V for Vendetta (2005)

Faithful adaptation of the comic book, with some additions just for the movie

[7/10 · 26 August 2023]

I read the entire graphic novel V for Vendetta before tackling the movie. Almost three hours to complete a near 300 pages of one of the highlights of the late 80s focus on the darker side of superhero comic books, especially the anti-hero. A masterwork of both Alan Moore and David Lloyd; credited only to Lloyd stemming from Moore's dissatisfaction for film adaptations of his popular works.

The film is extremly loyal to the material with obvious minor changes. Its follows the first half the closest and leaves gaps in the second half being the most noticable (Books 2 and 3 to be exact). Stephen Rea's character the big addition to the film.

A slight miscast in Natalie Portman who is quite a bit older than the character in the book, but she nonetheless does a fine job, going as far as shaving her head which did get some attention in the tabloids that year. It doesn't have the look of the time period it portrays. The dystopian future of 1997 in the book looks too modern here. The aforementioned gaps also do change the original finale slightly. Not a big deal.

Highlights to me are the flair of the directing by James McTeigue, really nice. And John Hurt himself, never more diabolical, heartless, and just plain evil especially in extremely close up which you get alot of here. His most malicious role yet and a loving tribute to the movie 1984 by having him here.

Its definitely worth a look and one of the better comic adaptations out there alongside other films of the time like Road to Perdition and Ghost World.

Mulholland Falls (1996)

I think it has the fundamentals, but its missing alot which makes it fall short of being a much better movie

[6/10 · 26 August 2023]

Mulholland Falls is a watchable, yet only servicable neo noir 1996 film with cast choices literally to die for, actors not only popular in the mid 90s but future stars in both film and television as well.

Its glitzy for the time period, late 40s I believe, the height of the film noir era and the development of the atomic bomb. Nick Nolte as the lead lieutenant for a special division of the LAPD aimed to wipe out organized crime off the streets of LA, literally in over his head trying to investigate the death of a beautiful, young and well connected Jennifer Connelly.

I think it has a sharp directing style courtesy Lee Tamahori but the plot choices keep it stalled from being a really crisp film noir. Madsen and Penn are hardly used which I think is a weakness, great supporting players thankfully put to better use 4 years earlier by Quentin Tarantino. John Malkovich doesn't fit for some reason. It lacks depth and the twists are really easy to spot. I think Melanie Griffith's character complicates and adds an unnecessary layer to the already befuddled events especially in the second half. Also an unsatisfying conclusion.

Just my opinion, its okay to disagree. It had the potential to be more. It doesn't stand to superior efforts of the time like John Dahl's movies. I liked certain parts but the bad outweighs the good here.

A Hard 6.

5 Fingers (1952)

Aptly titled! Satisfying conclusion, a bit talky but fun

[8/10 · 19 August 2023]

5 fingers honestly required a second viewing from me. Its leisurely paced and doesn't really stray from its main story. I was admittedly a bit sleepy and lost focus the first time around so seeing it twice really helped me to understand it.

Its World War II and James Mason plays a valet to the ambassador to a British Embassy, who manages to get his grubby little hands on some top secret files which he in turn sells to the Germans for outrageous sums of money which he plans on using to finance a comfy little retirement for himself. So basically he's a spy. His relationship with a Countess played by Danielle Darrieux helps him with his little scheme, and she in turn needs some help herself. In this line of work you're bound to attract a little suspicion which is where Michael Rennie (loved him as Klaatu!) and his team come into play.

Its a neat spy thriller, with ounces of paranoia, espionage, and drama tightly directed by Mr. Mankiewicz. A well chosen cast led by James Mason who is rather calm and cool under the circumstances, pretty slick how he stays one step ahead. Brief but brilliant flashes of Danielle Darrieux whom I really enjoyed in The Earrings of Madame De... Here she is the link that ties all these characters together and she plays her character really well. She uses her influence and "powers of persuasion" to get exactly what she wants and she's a treat to watch.

The ending is quite the cherry on top, very satisfying. Like I said before though, its leisurely paced, doesn't stray and may feel a bit slow due to this at times but rewarding in general. Good acting and nice dialogue and as always first rate music by the legendary Bernard Hermann.

Oppenheimer (I) (2023)

A Tour-De-Force for Cillian Murphy in the lead. In the end what it truly accomplishes is opening our eyes

[9/10 · 2 August 2023]

Ok I wanted to quickly review Oppenheimer while its still fresh in my mind. So much to discuss. Firstly the cast, WOW! I love all the actors I found here, at least one of each of their movies is something I've really enjoyed in the past. Really like Josh Hartnett thrown in, Matthew Modine as well. Especially good cast for movie trivia in relation to past movies and collaborations. Each one contributes a significant role whether brief or not to the story of "The Father Of the Atomic Bomb" J. Robert Oppenheimer. But enough about that, let me dissect this movie a bit and offer some quick hits.

While presented as a biography, behind the prowess of the lens of Nolan it shape shifts into courtroom drama (be prepared, its talky) but also takes on the form of something far more sinister I can only describe as similar to the movie Shutter Island. A psychological mind trip that may have a lingering effect on the viewer for a little while after seeing this. No joke. Its meant to send a message and it hammers it home pretty hard pulling no punches. Especially the last 90 minutes of this 3 hour train. Its paranoia at its finest and to the maximum. The reality anyone in a position of power (especially a brilliant mind) who has a few disagreements about how the government goes about their business would have to deal with. It made me constantly think of the saying "Do you ever get the feeling you've been had?" Not everyone you call a friend is a friend, and someone will always be jealous of your success out there. Its a really somber movie but man is it captivating.

And let's be clear, it doesn't glorify nor condemn the nuclear bomb which itself is a big part of the cast. I feel it mostly attempts at best to simply educate. Whether it be the horrors and lasting effects of war, the use of nuclear weapons for power advantages between countries, or more positive things like what great scientific minds can accomplish as a collective, and the advancement of technology. Practically evolution. It really is a well done movie that you can think about for days.

I think this is Christopher Nolan's most award season geared movie. Much less confusing than Dunkirk, its not comic book related, and its not as out there as Inception. Oppenheimer will be for Nolan what There Will Be Blood was for Paul Thomas Anderson. A magnum opus will very little CGI, which was a welcome sight. It relies heavily on a captivating main character, a cast to die for, a really well played out story and the always assured hand of Nolan. And did I mention Cillian Murphy a long time favorite of mine as Oppenheimer himself? A very well-rounded bravura performance, an actor that shot from already great to Gary Oldman territory (is he also in this? Lol) with this very movie in my opinion. Surrounded with such great support, Murphy stands out in every scene he's in. What a powerhouse! A fantastic quality was the strong convictions he portrayed that Oppenheimer himself was all about. Deserving for an Oscar nom in my opinion and I would be ecstatic if he were to win. And I won't forget to mention the interactions with one Albert Einstein, critical moments in the movie.

So there you have it. I recommend seeing it for sure. Its extremely relevant as related to our past as the world population and a scary possibility to our future.

The Hustler (1961)

Surprised and a bit unexpected

[8/10 · 27 June 2023]

To me, describing The Hustler as compared to a sandwich would be like this. The bottom and top pieces of bread would be the actual pool hustle itself which are a definitive beginning and end to its story. The meat and condiments in between? Now that's a totally different examination altogether. It was unexpected but delivers on a plot that has layers other than the draw of the pool game overall.

It centers around young, handsome, brash, confident and charming Paul Newman as "Fast" Eddie Felson, a big time pool hustler pulling tricks across the region with his friend and business associate. When he decides he wants to cut his teeth on big fish, namely the legendary Minnesota Fats played with suave by Jackie Gleason, it sets into motion a story underlying beyond its cool pool hall exterior that hits you emotionally and has small echoes of On The Waterfront (at least to me) in its presentation. Its nice and presents a really good showcase for a young Newman to prove his acting chops to the world. A well chosen lead actor for a character he was symbolically to this movie, born to play.

It has some lulls in the middle but they don't last long. The cinematography is very clean cut, and well directed by Robert Rossen in beautiful black & white. A movie that reignited interest in billiards and pool in general. A great universally enjoyed pasttime. And great use of location with the famed Ames Pool Hall.

Jake LaMotta the subject of my favorite movie Raging Bull has a small role here, and the director of Raging Bull, Martin Scorsese is the director of the sequel to this movie The Color Of Money, released 24 years after The Hustler.

A fine film in Paul Newman's catalogue.

The World According to Garp (1982)

Aptly named. One man doing the best at what he knows he's good at; wrestling, and being a family man

[9/10 · 24 May 2023]

A truly grand life odyssey with a remarkably shocking set-up and backstory that brings to life the main character T. S. Garp lovingly played by Robin Williams and his towering and revered mother that carefully guides his path, while re-writing her own marvelously played by Glenn Close. The actors really bring this wonderfully crafted movie to life with a wide array of colorful characters from a sparkling supporting cast including the critically acclaimed John Lithgow for his work here, and my favorite from this Mary Beth Hurt. She was really really good in a critical role, and while awards season smiled brightly for Close and Lithgow, Robin Williams and Hurt and absolutely fantastic. It includes practically everything, romance, roaringly funny comedy, politics, deep sadness, a slight bit of fantasy, a heavy amount of drama (especially in the 2nd half) and spoiler! An awesome piece of animation.

An incredible piece from very early in Robin Williams film career, he proves himself as a headliner and top billed actor. A very memorable and enjoyable film. Differs greatly in the 2nd half from the 1st, which reminds me greatly of Full Metal Jacket's similar structure. But all around strong and well written unorthodox story that would be fun to watch again and again. Not well known out there so I think its underrated, more people should see this! Great use of a popular song from The Beatles too to start and end it.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)

Up there with Nolan's Batman as the undisputed king of comic book movie trilogies

[9/10 · 19 May 2023]

Wow what can I say about Guardians 3. I absolutely loved it. Like the John Wick series there really isn't a weak spot in any of the movies and same problem, sometimes it ain't easy to give just one the preferred treatment over the others because they are all good.

With Guardians 3, I think the story has the most meat on its bone. Its deep, personal and hits hard with echoes of the story structure parallel with Sam Raimi's Spider-Man 2. It sucks you in fast and is actually quite emotional on a level I really was not expecting. Yes it even gets sad and at very brief times hits you with a jolt of creepy. The story in fact is a major standout, kudos to the script writers. The directing as always fantastic from James Gunn, who maybe we won't be seeing in the MCU for awhile. Best of luck with his new project for DC and what a way to step out.

I don't want to give away alot. The movie is still fresh in theatres and if you're a fan I encourage you to finish off the trilogy. I can tell you Karen Gillan's Nebula character gets much more attention here and Gillan does a great job. The cast has always been known for their chemistry and the way they play off each other and the new additions in Iwuji, Poulter and Debicki add well to the mix. In fact check out the cast list for this movie AFTER watching it and there's a few surprises in there you won't see coming that will force you to go back and check again. And DON'T FORGET the soundtrack! Man these movies never fail on the selections for their Awesome Mixes and here again they knock it out of the park. The soundtracks for all 3 movies are a MUST. The music has always been a big part of these Guardians of the Galaxy movies because they blend in with the scenes so well.

A fun and immersing summer blockbuster. And if you follow what's going on with the MCU and its phases, while this does signal the end of this particular franchise it definitely lays some seeds and opens up more doors to explore. A proverbial cherry on top would describe Guardians 3. A perfect, convincing and satisfying way to end it and ride off into the sunset.

Elvis (2022)

Feels like Elvis is overshadowed here by the makers wanting us to hate Colonel Tom Parker as much as possible

[7/10 · 28 March 2023]

That's the first thing I noticed after finishing Elvis today. The makers want us to hate Colonel Tom Parker as much as possble. There is no expense at taking shots at him in this movie especially at film's end. I feel it overshadows what should be the main focus here obviously, Elvis Presley.

This movie puts us on the fast track to Elvis' rise to Superstardom. From a teenager curious about black soul and R&B music, to his early Sun Records days where the birth of Elvis the entertainer began. Its alot of times fun and gives us a slight glimpse into the height of his popularity. Family was big for Elvis and we see how it was always priority to him to make sure his family and his wife and kid never had to live poor. But then always present in the background is that Colonel Tom Parker. Making all the right moves to keep this train rolling, the man managed the Elvis Presley Enterprises empire. From merchandise, tv specials, recording contracts, and keeping the sponsors happy, which didn't always turn out well due to Elvis shaking those hips, panties being flung on stage, or not singing the songs that were pre planned for him to sing. And always making sure Elvis has a friend to turn to in his moments of exhaustion and uncertainty since he genuinely trusted this man. Elvis faced alot of persecution in those early days and was greatly affected by the assassinations of Martin Luther King and Robert F. Kennedy and the sudden death of Mahalia Jackson. The popularity of such emerging superstars as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones also left Elvis in a bit of doubt. His increased popularity and demand and love for the ladies also leaving his marriage and fidelity into question posed many personal problems.

So Austin Butler in this is fantastic, he deserved that Oscar nomination. In a sea of Elvis impersonators how does one stand out? Austin has no problems doing just that. I wasn't sure if his singing was authentic or he was lip-synching but it didn't hurt anything for me. I enjoyed it immensely. I love Elvis and his songs and this was a nice movie. The supporting cast all do a stand up job as well as does Tom Hanks himself as Colonel Tom Parker. He played a greedy, money hungry pig here to perfection which is exactly what the creators here were clearly aiming for. I don't get it. We all know how much damage Mr. Parker did to Elvis' finances and life but why use this vehicle to take more potshots and encourage the movie audience to spite this man further long since his passing. Its detrimental in my opinion and is a negative spot here. While I enjoyed the soundtrack I felt mixing in current music a little off-putting. I would have preffered sticking to songs exclusively to Elvis or of the time period itself. But whatever. No big deal and doesn't hurt the film in any way. Also its a long 2 hours 39 minutes. Could have been shortened a wee bit.

Hollywood is flooding us lately with singer biopics since Bohemian Rhapsody blew it out of the water a couple years back. And while I feel its gotten oversaturated, Elvis is an exception, his legion of fans should flock to this if they haven't already.

A straight 7 out of 10 for me.

The Age of Innocence (1993)

Doesn't feel like a Scorsese. Great acting and great sets but there is alot here that hurt it overall

[7/10 · 28 March 2023]

In classic film noir movies from the 40s and 50s, I absolutely love narration. Here it dominates the first half of the movie and I found it to be extremely distracting. I don't care how popular the actress is that provides it, it sucks. It feels like the narration is an excuse to fly through multiple chapters of a long book to narrow the story down to the nitty gritty without making it overlong. Its heavily watered down in the second half which makes me believe the makers knew it was going to be a problem with some people.

Now the story itself. Daniel Day-Lewis shines as always as Newland Archer. Its 1800s New York where he plays a lawyer that is engaged to be married to lovely Winona Ryder's character May Welland. He pressures her to make the wedding come along much sooner but is nonetheless given time by May to make sure he is positive about his decision. This is because he becomes infatuated with May's cousin Countess Ellen Oleska played by Michelle Pfieffer. The countess is shunned by the other prominent families and high society surrounding due to her freewilled nature and her readiness to divorce her Polish husband after an unhealthy marriage. Archer is persuaded to get her to change her mind about the divorce but also understands her need to escape into a better life for herself. Nonetheless she does as he asks and is comforted and given shelter by matriarch Mrs. Mingott played very well by Miriam Margolyes. Over the following years Archer and Oleska's feelings for each other slightly grow through every encounter. She is the perfect opposite to a boring wife for Archer, although their respective places in society make them very cautious about what moves they make to see each other.

In general, that's the story. The acting and set pieces and costume design and makeup and music all fantastic no problems there. The story has alot of holes though, the attraction and love story surrounding Day-Lewis and Pfeffier feels superficial all the time. I didn't believe in their forbidden love at all. While Martin Scorsese is my favorite director, I think there is a reason why I relate more to his gangster movies over his many historical dramas. It just doesn't feel Scorsese to me, although the camerawork is quite good and splendid not alot of people out there seeing this on tv for the first time would recognize it as a Scorsese pic. This is more along the lines of a James Ivory or Jane Campion territory. There are alot of lulls too especially in the middle. It does get a little boring at times. I kind of feel Michelle Pfieffer was miscast here too. I would much rather watch her in Batman Returns over The Age of Innocence. And of course as mentioned before, the brutal narration. I watched it once and probably not again. Not my cup of tea.

Howl's Moving Castle (2004)

As charming as it gets

[8/10 · 28 March 2023]

There is alot I liked with Howl's Moving Castle. Its gentle, charming, and has a really good story that keeps you locked in. I feel it draws alot of inspiration from Beauty and the Beast but that might just be my opinion. The truly highlight are the characters though, a ragtag bunch that gel well together. Great character development and backstory to all.

In general, a young girl that looks like she slaves all day to make fancy hats, dreams of meeting Howl, the enigmatic ruler of a moving castle that looks honestly like a patchwork of different contraptions but a very nice design by Miyazaki and team. This girl Sophie has low self-esteem concerning her looks and doesn't think someone like Howl would pay any mind to her or her busy work schedule. A chance meeting with Howl though on her way to visit her sister sets into motion the events that run this story.

Don't be fooled by the title, although alot of the setting takes place within the aforementioned castle, it revolves mostly around the characters involved and focuses heavily on the triumph of the human spirit and has a very satisfying ending. Miyazaki seems like he outdoes himself with every outing. The animation is eye popping, colorful and vibrant, tropes of Miyazaki's work. I don't wish to spoil major moments in this movie because anime is so beautiful, unlike real life movies, the general population knows less about animes and come into one with little or no word of mouth from anybody to give them an idea of what to expect. Especially with a master like Hayao Miyazaki, its fun jumping into his films fresh because there is alot to take in. Howl's Moving Castle no exception. A wonderful entry into an already legendary library.

Blast of Silence (1961)

This is film-noir heaven for me!

[10/10 · 28 February 2023]

Allen Baron's masterpiece Blast of Silence, a criminally underseen film, that I can not even find a remote review on many of the sources I turn to for help.

If you can find it, this movie is an absolute standout in film-noir for me. It contains, in excess, as well, everything I could ask for. Narration and lots of it, first thing you will note. A gritty and crackling script. A paranoid, tough as nails main character, ready to get his hands dirty at any time. Seedy and shady characters that the main character has to deal with. A jazz score. And of course, black and white! The only thing I guess it would lack is a femme fatale. No big deal!

It's bleak, lonely, hard, dark, very well directed, and the acting is just right. Perfect for this. A bravura in every way! Look for this hidden gem! An extra bonus which fits just as nice, the cover for the critierion collection dvd is drawn by none other than Sean Phillips, a comic book film-noir master illustrator. Cherry on top!

Red Desert (1964)

The acting is wonderful. Watch it for Monica Vitti.

[7/10 · 28 February 2023]

While I did enjoy the acting and Michaelangelo Antonioni's direction, I challenge anyone who has seen this to really explain "what is it about?" Various themes are explored throughout, but does it have a particular direction, or moral, or focus in its story?

That's the complicating part I came to watching Red Desert. A story mostly centered around Monica Vitti's character, Guiliana, and the town she lives in. She is a fractured woman overcoming a serious accident and a lengthy stay in the hospital. Thrust back into everyday life, she has now become fragile, easily frightened, and mentally unstable. A wonderful job by Monica Vitti here portraying this fragmented character to perfection, we identify as the audience immediately that there is something wrong and that her character has a great unease with the world around her. She finds a friend in her husband's coworker, Corrado, played by Richard Harris, whom she finds comfort in, and a good portion of Red Desert centers on their acquaintance.

To that extent, the story shifts and dances around various subject matter and concludes in my opinion abruptly. Attempting to come to a conclusion on what the message is or the point it is trying to make was the tough part here. There are too many plot points. Just my opinion. Visually, well done, though, and fine acting.

Annie Hall (1977)

The Woody Allen blueprint for years to come. Funny and touching in spades.

[9/10 · 22 February 2023]

I absolutely loved this. Diane Keaton is quirky, and charming with a deep pool of a range of emotions and she is irresistible. A very deserving Best Actress (for Looking For Mr. Goodbar too I hear, still gotta catch it).

I think, though, what makes this movie a classic is the story crafted by Woody Allen and Marshall Brickman. Its a New York point of view with Woody Allen's clever and humourous perspective on a wide variety of topics, including but not limited to being Jewish, the need for constant sex in a relationship, relationships in general, and never giving up on your dreams. And its all tied together with the main story when he was dating Annie Hall.

It's mostly told in flashback and generally focuses on his serial dating and how most of the women in his life were either intellectually compatible or were insecure that they weren't smart enough to be with him. But it was his time with Annie Hall that captured his heart and the memories that he's most fond of.

Its full of little tributes to Woody Allen's idols and favorite movies, including several hilarious nods to The Sorrow and the Pity. It's masterfully directed with unique camera shots and tricks, including a literal out of body experience, and subtitles for a character's thoughts.

It's very funny, charming, smart, and full of life. Well rewarded and is a joy to watch from start to finish. The acting is very high rate. And don't forget it has tons of future stars in very brief cameos. Check out the cast list to see.

If you don't care for Woody Allen and his movies I get it, but if you are ever curious, this one should be the pick of the litter.

Amarcord (1973)

A Fellini tinged mosaic

[7/10 · 20 February 2023]

The movie opens with fluffballs floating in on the townspeople, and this event signals the end of winter. The ensuing festival that occurs in the town plaza is a celebration of the arrival of spring. Thus begins Amarcord, which I can best describe as multiple Italiana slices of life that take place around the 30s fascist era. It focuses on several characters, including a group of adolescent delinquents, an italian family, a group of middle-aged women, one of whom is the toast of the town, and in very small doses, a prostitute.

While it doesn't exactly have a story to tell, I understand its more an expression of memories of Fellini's childhood growing up in Italy. It deals with various themes such as sexual angst and desire, growing up with values, confession, and family amongst others but it really all connects as being one big celebration of life.

It directed with Fellini's known trademarks, self narration, hearing a characters thoughts, self realism, and a bountiful of women. Also Nino Rota's score an absolute delight as usual, the music is divine. An academy award winner as Best foreign film, I don't think its for all tastes, but certainly a must for Fellini buffs.

Night Train to Munich (1940)

Not the most captivating story, but the acting is terrific and its well cast.

[7/10 · 15 February 2023]

Night Train To Munich is a political thriller with a well-rounded cast, including a lot of the same actors (and screenwriters) directly involved in Alfred Hitchcocks' The Lady Vanishes. It takes place around the beginning of World War II, and the main plot centers around the nazis and their interest in a czechslovakian scientist and his daughter, Axel and Anna Bomasch. Meanwhile, the british intelligence assign an officer to go undercover to locate the Bomaschs' and bring them to safety.

While the story is good, it isn't particularly captivating. It did however have a good bit of comedy thanks to Radford and Wayne as Charters and Caldicott. The legendary bumbling idiots duo who get a chance to truly shine here. Rex Harrison is a highlight in his role. Its very well cast is a big thumbs up and also includes Margaret Lockwood and Paul Henreid.

It is also accurate for its time depicting the beginning of the war and displays the fear and anger people had at the time concerning Germany, the nazis, the gestapo and Hitler.

Its wonderfully directed by Carol Reed who would go on to make The Third Man and Odd Man Out. 7/10.

Irma la Douce (1963)

The two leads make it worthwhile. Not the greatest story or execution but its undeniably charming and sweet.

[8/10 · 3 February 2023]

You really can't go wrong with the teaming of Billy Wilder, Jack Lemmon, and Shirley MacLaine. Like the offering of the team of Fritz Lang, Edward G. Robinson and Joan Bennett, this triple combo did only max 2 movies, but they are some of the best comedies of the 60s. It was natural for the team that made The Apartment to have another go round, and though Irma La Douce didn't hit the pinnacle that movie reached its still a pretty good, light hearted, and sweet comedy.

And it works because Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine have perfect chemistry and they again light up the screen.

This story involves Shirley MacLaine as a prostitute hanging out in front of the Hotel Casanova, this is where all the girls on this street make their money but MacLaine is clearly the most popular and owns the best spot. Along comes Jack Lemmon as a policeman, transferred from patrolling playgrounds to being the new beat cop on this block. He makes a hot mess with everyone right away because he's honest and by the book unlike the crooked cops that usually made the rounds before he came along. He lands in hot water with Shirley MacLaine and all the other girls and their clients and even his boss at the precinct. Somehow his affectionate personality wins Shirley MacLaine's Irma La Douce over and she falls for him right away, even making him (without him ever realizing it) her new pimp so to speak. From there we are treated to their romantic follies with a few twists and turns along the way.

Its an absolutely delightful film, well filmed in bright colours, the associated supporting characters are also very distinguishable and colorful in their own right. It contains a really fun musical number as well. The acting is masterful of course, you really get attached to Lemmon's Nestor Patou and MacLaine's La Douce. Its a sweet, uplifiting movie with a few speed bumps plot wise in the second half but otherwise a really pleasant film and a nice follow up to The Apartment.