aurion7 Reviews

The January Man (1989)

Enjoyable who-done-it with top notch cast and small doses of humor

[7/10 · 26 April 2024]

What were people expecting in order for this to have a 5.5 aggregated score? It's not a brilliant classic, but first of all, it's hard to beat a cast like this, with Kevin Kline, Alan Rickman, Susan Sarandon, Harvey Keitel, Rod Steiger, etc. The story moves along well, without any clumsy directing or editing, and the solution to the mystery is not easily figured out. The variety of characters involved have enough depth to make them interesting, and the cast portrays them well. Add some subtle humor here and there and you get a film that's fun to watch, and I think it'll leave you with a smile, unless you're determined to be unnecessarily critical.

Nobody's Fool (1994)

One of My Favorite Paul Newman Films

[7/10 · 5 January 2024]

As he got older, Newman's talent displayed itself more and more easily. In this film, it's as if he puts on the role like a comfortable set of old clothes that fits him perfectly. His acting doesn't show - by which I mean, he becomes the character rather than acting it out in an obvious way. When you insert that smooth display into a well-written story that includes several other, excellent performances, you get a top-notch result. None of the directing or acting is lacking, nor does it ever feel forced or overdone. There's humor as well as sadness, small victories along with disappointments, and touching sentiment along with strength and honor. All in all, it's slice of life theatre done very well.

Reacher (2022– )

Pretty good, but at the same intellectual level of the books

[6/10 · 3 July 2023]

The Reacher novels sell well because they follow a formula that publishers know the public will eat up. They're not too intellectually demanding, they keep you emotionally charged with exciting crescendos spaced at prescribed numbers of pages, etc. Popular movies and TV series are similar. Reacher is a typical example of this stuff. Give us something that actually requires thinking, please.

The other thing I dislike about this average fare is that since the people producing know the audience is not overly bright or very well-informed in a lot of ways, they can get away with being sloppy about details. Examples: Reacher says a motel has been built using 1/4" gypsum board (Sheetrock) for the interior walls. That thickness is so flimsy it's used only for specialty purposes. It just won't hold up, and if you attached it to studs spaced at 24" intervals (as Reacher states), it would bow and flop around. Or how about his sticking a fork through the sidewall of the sort of tire used on a Bentley? Reacher's strength would not make a difference. The rubber compounds and very strong plies of composite fabrics used to make radial tire sidewalls would simply bend the fork's tines, no matter who's pushing on it.

Picky? Yes. But there are other examples; I've noted only two. I love the rare offering that makes me think about who's who, what's happening, why, and then leaves me with feelings of some sort, thoughts I didn't have before I watched it. In other words, a show that makes an lasting impression on me rather than something I forget about in a short time.

They Were So Young (1954)

A decent little film for a lazy afternoon...

[5/10 · 18 May 2023]

...or whenever. By which I mean it's mediocre but enjoyable if you aren't too demanding. Some reviewers were apparently hoping for something better and were disappointed, but after reading their reviews I knew not to expect too much. That said, the plot is reasonable, Scott Brady is as good as he pretty much always was, Johanna Matz is very believable if not outstanding and the rest of the cast does what they need to do in order for this to be a mildly fun little adventure. The sets were better than one often sees in this sort of 'B' grade flick and there were only two or three sequences when I thought it dragged a bit. I'd give it a 5.5 if that was possible, but I couldn't quite give it a 6.

Walkaway Joe (2020)

Lacking, but has good things to offer

[6/10 · 28 February 2023]

Many reviews of this film discuss the unfulfilled potential of a good premise, the lackluster acting by some of the players, the uneven direction, etc., etc., etc. You know, I can't argue with any of that. But here's the thing: It is so hard, these days, to find a movie that leaves you with much of anything in the way of good feelings that run deeper than a shallow and momentary, fleeting high at best. Most don't even do that; it's not the intention of the filmmakers to make you happy, but rather to do something else. But here we have a film that, while rough and not up to par in some ways, accomplishes one very worthwhile thing. It shows us what it's like to struggle and fail as a parent or just as a person, and it shows us what it's like to keep trying anyway. How many modern films present examples of people who mess up in real life challenges, and yet don't make excuses or blame others, but rather take responsibility for their actions, their failings, everything, and keep giving it another try. This is what being a "good" person is about, not perfection, but someone who cares, who tries, and doesn't quit. And Bravo to the creators of Walkaway Joe for attempting to present that for people to see.

The Cooler (2003)

Actually, this is a remake of a Burt Reynolds film

[6/10 · 26 December 2022]

Yes, really. Of course, the version starring Burt is pretty much what you'd expect of a 1980's Burt Reynolds production, which means it's mediocre. That original version has a definite "made for TV" quality, but it's not terrible. The thing is, why can't I see anything anywhere in articles on or reviews of The Cooler giving credit to that earlier film? Did they just totally rip off the story and call it their own? The plot is almost exactly the same until the last few minutes, when they go in a different direction. In any case, The Cooler, now that I'm past my diatribe, is an enjoyable movie that's a lot better (sorry, Burt), partly because William Macy, Maria Bello et al do a very good job, and partly because the filmmakers did a very respectable job of painting the low-rent side of Vegas for us, with it's service workers, their daily grind and their harsh ups and downs. It's one of those films where it's easy to relate to the main characters and their struggles, and easy to want to root for them. And that, plus the fact that the ending is not completely predictable, makes you want to see it through. IMO, all these things outweigh the movie's flaws well enough for it to be worth about a 6.5 rating.

Jack Ryan (2018–2023)

Season 3 was written for a non-thinking audience

[6/10 · 22 December 2022]

At some point, Jack Ryan went from being someone who said, "Hey, I'm just an analyst", when he was being pushed into field work. Back then we could believe that he was capable of some degree of badass-ness, but he has magically transformed into a sort of Special Forces type who can lead teams through the fiercest action. How did this transformation happen? We're not supposed to wonder. This third season if full of actors looking cool and mouthing lines that are intended to be dark and mysterious in an attempt to impress us with how scary this all is as they save the world. But none of it rises above a level that would convince anyone with much more than a 12 year old's intellect. It's all just more of the same stuff we keep getting fed, mood and action without much plot or dialogue that's more than vaguely interesting. Add to this a number of incorrect details that affect timing, believability and just plain old accuracy and you end up with a series that is mildly watchable but ultimately forgettable.

What Planet Are You From? (2000)

Not great but not bad!

[6/10 · 10 October 2022]

This one seems polarizing, from what I can see in the reviews. I think some people expect too much or are put off by this movie's admittedly non-PC aspects. But the haters? Geez, lighten up. Yes, the premise is silly and the buzzing thing gets a little tiresome. But Garry Shandling, Annette Benning and John Goodman are always good, as are Greg Kinnear and Ben Kingsley, although their roles are relatively small. It gets bogged down for a while in the middle... they could've edited some out. Other than that it moves along fairly well. While I didn't find it "hilarious", as some reviewers did, it's good for a lot of dry humor smiles and a few good laughs. I put this film in the easy too watch, nice way to waste a couple of hours category.

Waffle Street (2015)

Worth seeing

[7/10 · 11 August 2022]

No, this is not a great movie, and if you're looking for exciting action, move on. But I was surprised to find that the story is one that stayed with me well after I watched the show, in good ways. Unless you're completely unmotivated in life, this movie will probably give you a lift, a little inspiration and when you think about it later, maybe you'll think, "Hey, maybe there's hope for me, too!" I don't think it's corny or sappy, partly because it actually happened.

American Underdog (2021)

A simple but enjoyable story that's fairly well done

[6/10 · 5 March 2022]

The theme is a standard one, that is, the underdog who eventually overcomes. It's probably true that Warner is the best non-drafted NFL player ever, and that's special, as are his determination, his wife Brenda's tremendous support and her son Hayden's accomplishments. One reason many critics gave this movie a thumbs up is that it takes a common premise and presents it well. On the plus side, it's always nice good to get into a film that is positive and inspiring. There aren't enough of them around. Some reviewers have a problem with what they see as too much focus on "religion", but there isn't a lot of that here, and anyway it's an inaccurate criticism. If those viewers took a couple of minutes to research Warner they'd see that his thanking God and stuff like that is what he actually did on the field, on TV and other places. It's who he is, so to leave it out of this depiction would've been wrong. I think Zachary Levi is a little too old for this part, although he did a good job. There's a lack of connection made between their (Kurt and Brenda's) struggles and the success Warner finally attains, and there are other flaws. But overall it's pretty good, and when an inspiring or motivating story is presented in a careful, professional manner, it's a welcome thing.

The King's Man (2021)

High hopes... dashed to pieces

[5/10 · 4 March 2022]

After reading several reviews that ranged from very negative to very positive, I thought perhaps this film didn't please many viewers because, as is usual these days, those movie-goers are satisfied not by intriguing, multi-layered plots or by things like fascinating character developments, but rather by huge, mind-blowing special effects with caped humans flying through the air. Maybe, I thought, this movie lacks some of that sort of juvenile excitement but makes up for it with something better, such as an actual plot that challenges the viewer to keep up and which is enjoyable to follow.

Unfortunately, while it does lack characters of depth and doesn't provide an attractive story line that might draw you into its weaving ahead... well, it doesn't have the impressive special effects or or anything else much to offer, either.

Melodramatic (Who's the target audience? 12 year olds?), meandering and boring. What a big disappointment.

A Christmas Story (1983)

Why I hate this film more than any other "Christmas" movie

[4/10 · 29 November 2021]

Almost every classic Christmas movie presents ideas like family, goodwill to all and other fine things that add to our enjoyment of the season. This movie has none of those elements. It gives us a father who's a bungling idiot, his simpering, vapid but long-suffering wife, and their spoiled children. They're all clamoring for the material things they want. We are supposed to find this, and their ongoing chaos and failures, funny. By the end of the film, the main character (Ralphie) has realized that the true meaning of Christmas is what? Shooting things with his new BB gun. There's none of the nostalgic holiday spirit we used to love, nor is there any offering of how genuine, non-materialistic holiday spirit can help bring hope and joy to this world that seems to be spiraling more and more out of control. While some readers are sure to dismiss my statements here as old-fashioned or overly critical, I wonder what they can suggest that might help bring a little more heart or joy into people's lives. It's certainly not this movie.

Wrath of Man (2021)

Not much of a vehicle for Statham

[6/10 · 5 July 2021]

All the usual ingredients are here, nothing new, just mixed a little differently for a middling result. Fairly predictable story and plotting. As usual Ritchie does a pretty good job directing, and the production is fine, but there's nothing remarkable to see. Jason Statham, while being known as a simple action guy, is actually a decent actor when given the opportunity, within his range, but his character in this film doesn't give him a lot to work with beyond the basics. I guess if you just want an easy-to-take action flick for an evening, break out the popcorn and enjoy... just don't expect to be wowed... although, from the average rating here, a lot of people are easily impressed.

Nobody (I) (2021)

Vicarious and satisfying

[6/10 · 2 July 2021]

If I'm not mistaken, most of us would love an opportunity to stick it to all the SOB's who have done us wrong, or even to those we've seen do hurtful things to anyone. So it's a pleasure to ride along as the main character wreaks havoc on those who deserve it. It's always annoying, however, when film makers either don't care about minor details or who simply think the audience is too dumb to know better. For example, Dodge never made a 4.9L engine the characters talk about. And the biggest gunfight is exciting, but it requires "suspension of disbelief" to a point where it starts to get downright silly. All in all this is a fun and mostly well done amusement ride.

Desperate (1947)

Pretty good, a bit sappy but well done

[6/10 · 20 June 2021]

Not a high-line noir piece but maybe it's among the best of "B" category films of this type from the era. Fairly predictable but still directed and acted well enough so that it's enjoyable. What's my biggest complaint? I'd almost like to watch it over again just so I can count how many times the main character's name (Steve) is said. No one, be it his wife, the bad guys, the cops, or anyone else can talk to him without saying his name in almost every single line. Drove me nuts. OK Steve, that'll be fine Steve, next we'll go here and do this, Steve, how's that, Steve?

Jaws (1975)

Well done and entertaining, but...

[7/10 · 19 May 2021]

Why didn't they just shoot it? A .338 or similar caliber rifle with heavy ammo will take down the biggest grizzly. When the guys are out on the boat hunting the shark they had plenty of chances to put a few rounds in that monster. But as usual we're not supposed to think of such things. Shutup and enjoy the film!

Nomadland (2020)

What's the big deal?

[6/10 · 5 May 2021]

Ok, so it's well-directed, Frances McDormand is always good, and the other actors do a good job, too. But all in all it really doesn't amount to much. The dim/dreary wintery lighting and tones are supposed to help set a mood but that's a little obvious and gets old after a bit. Is everyone so blown away by this movie because they never thought about how so many people live, in various ways, around the fringes of our typically middle income, middle American, middle of the road way of life? Truly? Maybe so, in which case a hell of a lot of people need to wake up. In any case I think this is a mildly enjoyable and interesting effort that will be forgotten in not too many years.

Journey to Le Mans (2014)

Pretty good trip with a fine LMP2 team

[6/10 · 23 March 2021]

So many horrible reviews! Wow. It's not that bad. I agree that there are scenes that are re-used, and the soundtrack is a mis-match, in my opinion. Maybe they had to fill a time slot and therefore put in extra/filler scenes? This should be a documentary that fits in a 60 minute slot, not over 90 minutes. That would help. But I still enjoyed journeying with the team members as they attempted to win races and then to make it to the top at Le Mans. Maybe since I'm an amateur racer I was able to get into it more easily than some viewers, I don't know. And I get tired the hype and glamour surrounding the zillion dollar F1 and LM juggernauts. Going along with a smaller team and vicariously experiencing their ups and downs as they go for it felt good to me.

Sanctuary (1961)

What???

[1/10 · 14 July 2019]

Am I missing something here? Why the heck would she kill the one innocent person in this whole sordid mess instead of that Cajun snake? What are we supposed to take away from this story? Gag!

A Simple Twist of Fate (1994)

Decent but flawed

[5/10 · 14 September 2014]

Near the beginning of what is in many ways a well done film, Stephen Baldwin's character is going to use, as he states it, his brother's " '66 Plymouth". The car is a '67 or '68 Plymouth Barracuda, not a '66. OK, so we'll not be too picky; we'll overlook that, even though it's sloppy details that make the difference between mediocrity and greatness. But then when they crash the car, it's the car's "driver's side air bag" that saves Mr. Baldwin. Please... I don't know when they started putting air bags in cars but it sure wasn't in the late 60's. Nit picky? Those two missteps are the beginning of a long string of details that we, the audience, are apparently supposed to be too stupid to notice. And that's insulting as well as annoying in a movie that could easily have been excellent.