Very interesting portrayal of a sociopathy that aspires to the upper crust, and concocts a pretty good plan to get there. It includes several adjustments on the fly when it looks like he's about to lose it all but he manages to adapt and overcome with guile and patience. The family members are very eccentric to say the least and it makes this elaborate grift a bit easier to execute . But do know that they were all very talented and were very strong in their individual scenes. A perfect supporting cast. There are hints from The Talented Mr. Ripley but it is one movie that stands out on its own. Good to see Rosamund Pike again. Very easy to watch.
Reviews
109 Reviews
Oddly Compelling Horror/Comedy
20 October 2023
To be honest, I really don't know what to make of this movie. It had a few laughs, lots of chuckles and a few cringes. The story line was actually pretty decent and it made a few flashback connecters so you know why some things happened as they did. Reminded me of a modern day Svenghoolie type of movie they show of Friday nights. The actors were reasonably good, they executed their roles well and there was a good bit of chemistry amongst them but with some more so that others. It sounds like this was just an average movie, and for the most part it was. However, if there was another Onyx the Fortuitous movie, I'd actually go see it. And this is coming from an old guy. Oddly compelling.
Bottoms
(2023)
Oddly Entertaining on a lot of different levels
9 September 2023
I went to see this movie based on many of these reviews. A lot of characters are from other movies and TV shows that I remember plus you add Cindy Crawford's daughter and Marshawn Lynch so what the heck. These characters alone should carry this movie, and they did it quite well. It's your typical high school odd-characters-out movie with a gay twist. But they add a bit of the fight club angle and some solid strong characters with pretty good writing/dialogue. Add it all up and you have a pretty good funny, and emotional movie even though it has a few dead spots. I didn't see Bros but what I've read about that movie versus this one, Bottoms is a clear winner in the LGBTQ category.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3
(2023)
Fractured, flat, dull and confused
8 September 2023
I don't like writing negative reviews but I've seen many Hallmark and Lifetime movies (my wife made me) that were better than this. Even she admitted it was not good. The chemistry is just not there with many of the characters, and there are lots of characters. This leads to a lot of fractured scenes that were exacerbated by dialogue that someone thought was cleaver but it falls pretty flat most of the time. Almost cringeworthy. Only a few decent one-liners. Many scenes didn't look like they belonged in the movie or maybe they added/kept them into to make it a 90 minute movie. What was most confusing is that many scenes were thrown together and there wasn't any rhyme, reason or explanation other than to try to be (I don't even know what to say here). A lot of scenes just happened with no rational as to why things happened as they did. See this one at your own risk.
Retribution
(I) (2023)
Worst Writing dialogue for Liam, Deserves Much Better
3 September 2023
Shallow is the best word I can come up with. This is the worse character script writing I've seen for any Liam film but it is still a passable film (barely). Lots of stereotyping about the kids, wife, cops and much of the supporting cast. A few holes in the storyline, too. However, if you're a Liam fan, you'll get through it. The editing was actually pretty good but there are lots of gaps that have you wondering "what's taking so long?". I think this could have been 2-3 stars better with some decent writing and less predictability with many of the characters. It was just very shallow and Liam deserves a lot better.
The Equalizer 3
(2023)
It's Still a Fun Watch....
2 September 2023
Denzel does this like only Denzel can. He's getting a bit long in the tooth but it was a pretty solid entertaining movie. I wish this series started earlier so there would be more sequels as I do still like watching Denzel do his thing. Personally, I thought things tied together reasonably well (need to stay to the end to see it). The Italian locale offered some pre-conceived notions that may cloud our views and/or opinions but I don't think it got into the way at all. Everyone else has offered up their views on the action so I won't duplicate. Just know that if you're a Denzel fan and/or a fan of the Equalizer series, you will enjoy this one, and maybe you'll hope there's one more, like I hope.
Meg 2: The Trench
(2023)
Light hearted fun sequel
4 August 2023
It really hasn't changed too much from the original. Worthy nice two hour distraction. Jason is Jason and there is no disappointments whatsoever. Even thought it's predictable, liked how some of the bad guys got their due. Like the first, some actors are very good supporting cast and a few a bit of "huh?". They could have chopped out a few unnecessarily questionable scenes involving the kid but I guess this is to cater to the Chinese market. The trailers do show a Jaws like scene when everybody is to get out of the water but it was a bit surprising how long it took a lot of people to get out of the water. Once in a while you need some silliness, embrace the silliness with this one.
Joy Ride
(2023)
Too much of some things and not enough others
7 July 2023
Usually, I'll see just about any movie but I actually walked out on this one half-way through. I just couldn't take it anymore. A lot of comedic ignorance just didn't hit the mark. The chemistry was mixed at best. Waaaaay too much reference to sex almost to a point that it looked like it was supposed to carry the movie (at least up to the time before I left). I just couldn't relate to any of the main characters on any level, or even many of the supporting characters at that. A lot of people seemed to have enjoyed this movie (barely) enough to give it average ratings so good for them. They didn't lose time out of their lives. Unfortunately, I did.
The Boogeyman
(I) (2023)
Credibility Issue?????
4 June 2023
Just an okay movie but I do question its credibility as a horror movie. Lots of questions as to "why are they doing this/not doing this". Hard to further elaborate without giving up the movie but I don't think I'll be giving up too much. For example, I don't understand why the lack of lighting. If you hear noises or something going on, I would think the first response is to turn the lights on? I guess that takes away from the suspense, but it does cast doubt on credibility. Maybe it's me but when kids are scared they usually yell a lot. I lack of screaming at parts of the movie you'd expect some screaming just adds to credibility issues. These are just 2 points. On the plus side, the ending is pretty good.
Somewhere in Queens
(2022)
A Lot of Real in This Movie
25 April 2023
All of the other reviews have touched upon just how funny, touching and well acted this movie is. I would like to further add that the characters, family chemistry and the timing of the dialogue was outstanding. It rivals Moonstruck with its situational comedy, and it occasionally exceeds it. The real deal for me were the depth of the family secrets, how they bubbled to the surface and the pain/hurt that can be inflicted. It was raw and painful. Frankly, I couldn't see how they could overcome it. However, this movie really shines when it shows the strength of the family, how they overcome it and actual grow from it. I can't say anything more without giving away something so I would strongly encourage you to see it for yourself.
Mafia Mamma
(2023)
Surprising Decent Because of the Subtilties
14 April 2023
It's starts out kind of cringeworthy only because of Collette's strong performance to reflect the main character. Took me a while to sort it out but once you accept that this is how the main character should be, and let the movie develop, this is a surprisingly comedic oddball movie. What helps carry this film is are the dynamics and chemistry of the entire supporting cast. There is a fine line here on cringe and funny and yes, there are some "we can do without that" moments but there so many little things that will draw a smile, chuckle or quick laugh. If I had to describe it better, I'd say it was a little like Moonstruck.
Spinning Gold
(2023)
Why so much hate, it's actually a decent film?
2 April 2023
I don't understand the hate given some of the other movies out there like Cocaine Bear, 64 and Shazam. I thought this was a pretty good bio-pic. It is a very interesting insight on how the first Independent label was started. It also showed the people behind the scenes to get the talent, make the music and to get it out there for public consumption. Probably would have been better served if they focused more time on this change in the music industry. There was a bit of personal things they could have left out and it actually might have made the movie a little bit more focused. Regardless, if you can handle any of the above 3 other movies, then go out an enjoy a pretty good movie with some sound acting and editing, and make it a nice evening out.
OK Jason Spy/Thriller/Action
4 March 2023
There's been better from Guy Richie but overall, a decent night out to see a Jason action film. Not up to par with past action films as this one has some light heartedness to it. I'll let you judge for yourself as your interest may be biased towards some of the actors. As for my bias, typical Jason action which is just fine by me. Not quite sure if the writing was adequately fitted for Aubrey. There are some pretty good light moments and quips but there are some flat ditzy style dialogue. Personally, they could have cut the ditzy out. Marsen and Elwes are perfect fits for this type of movie. I think Hugh Grant was fantastic and I think it would be a nice reoccurring role to see him in other Jason action films! You can judge for yourself.
Selfiee
(2023)
A misunderstanding out of control
25 February 2023
This is one of the few Indian non-action hero movies I've seen and like the rest of them I've seen, pretty good! I did not see Driver's License so I can't make any comparison but looking at the merits of this film by itself, it's a pretty good storyline on how people will feel and react under certain circumstances. This is what made this film very interesting. You just hung on to see what would happen next! The best parts were the one-on-one engagements as it showed a good deal of sincerity and some acting depth. It's not 100% across the board as there is still some excessive drama but the main characters and most of the supporting cast do a credible job. Unlike Bollywood's action film, there are really no gaping holes in the storyline. Personally, I can do without the song-and-dance but I guess that's Bollywood. Anyway, see this movie if you like acting.
Marlowe
(2022)
Pretty Decent Gum Shoe LA background Film Noire
18 February 2023
I lot of people have compared this to the original Marlowe character and series and it is not the case. Maybe that's why people have trashed this movie as it's being judged on an existing franchise. To begin, Liam is not Marlowe but more a lower level PI. He hasn't been at it that long. If you want to compare, I would say this was more Ezekiel Rawlins in The Devil in a Blue Dress. Easy has street connects, Marlowe has cop connections. Overall, the entire supporting cast was steady and complemented the story line well. No Oscar performances but OK for the film. I'm a bit biased as I do enjoy the LA police, Hollywood and the rich-and-powerful subculture of the '40's and 50's and the banter that comes with it. The storyline itself was a bit thin but passable. In short, if you can judge this movie on its own merits and forget the "Marlowe" connect, this is a pretty good movie night out.
Pathaan
(2023)
Could have been an hour shorter
5 February 2023
As you tell by my heading, I lost a bit of time in my life. The acting is a bit over the top dramatic, some of the fight scenes are OK but most of them are simply unbelievable and the CGI could be a lot tighter. As crazy as it may seem, the storyline really isn't bad. A bit more polish in the script, some more sensible, situation realistic acting, back-fill a couple of scenes as to how they developed in the first place (like how the device got on the xxxxx) and less but more realistic CGI could have made this a very good movie. I suspect this production was rushed and it regretfully shows. I can also do without the long song-and-dance but maybe this is what makes Bollywood Bollywood.
M3GAN
(2022)
Creepy Enough
7 January 2023
You'll read about how this is just a regurgitated story line with more tech but it is still a pretty good movie. The writing for the doll is actually solid and the main adult character does show sufficient lack of empathy to feel some dislike for her. They also introduce some characters that need a beating which probably helps scale back the homicidal aspect of the story line. Plus it does help give a softer edge to the doll unlike Chuck who is just full-time homicidal maniac. Overall, the movie had a nice steady pace, kept me engaged the entire time there were very few flat spots, and if there were, they were short. I will not divulge the ending but this might not be the end of this doll. Worth seeing on the big screen.
Violent Night
(2022)
A potential Christmas Classic that can only be shown on cable
6 December 2022
Where do I start other than to say so, so much fun. This movie runs the gamut to sappy Christmas themes to Clockwork Orange ultra-violence to the magic of Ted. There are other connections to a few other movies but I really can't name them as it would be a spoiler and I don't want to deny anyone from enjoying this one full force. Harbour is absolutely fantastic. Lots of luggage/issues with most of the supporting characters and that just adds to the constant entertainment in many subtle ways. If you can handle the crossing-the-line-a-little-bit violence, this is one very enjoyable holiday season movie.
Amsterdam
(2022)
The true hit is the supporting cast
7 October 2022
The main 3 characters delivery as they should with a good deal of solid acting, and excellent timed dialogue. The final storyline takes quite a few step-by-steps before it fully develops, and the pace of that may have hurt the ratings. However, I would like to bring to everyone's attention that the surprise part of this movie is the acting of the supporting cast. It is absolutely superb. Each one of them had their own unique character that contributed a good deal to the movie. Their interaction with the main characters was very entertaining. Look beyond the main theme and you will find a fun gem of a movie.
Vikram Vedha
(2022)
Hollywood Worthy Storyline
1 October 2022
Let me premise my review by let you know that I don't quite understand Bollywood but viewing this movie from a Hollywood perspective, it has one heck of a storyline. Love the subtle hints throughout the movie that leads to a pretty solid ending. The movie has some excellent moments of acting, timing, storytelling, flashbacks and some pretty good chase scenes. To be honest, I can do without the song and dance as well as the bit over-the-top soundtrack but that didn't take up too much time. The acting sometimes gets a little stilted but you can get through it easy enough. Some of the shooting scenes could have been a bit tighter and realistic in the sense of less swagger or more realism. Shooting a handgun is a serious endeavor and I personally prefer to see it portrayed as such on the screen. If you cut out the filler song-and-dance, some silly love scenes plus tightening it in a few spots and this would be one pretty solid 2:00 hour movie. Regardless, this is one of the better Indian movies I've seen and it is worth seeing. The storyline itself is very good and I can see Hollywood doing a remake on this one. Go out and enjoy.
Avatar
(2009)
You need to see this before 2
23 September 2022
I know it's been a long time since the original release but I do not recall this being sooo good. The only reason why I did not give it a 10 is Sam Worthington. He is the least capable actor in this movie. Zoe Saldana, Michelle Rodriguez, Sigourney Weaver, Giovanni Ribisi and Stephen Lang carry their role very, very well. Anyway, accepting Sam's limitations, the 3D is great, the cinematography is outstanding, the pace is excellent, the character timing is perfectly synced and the soundtrack solid. Given what is coming down the road in 2, I can't help wonder if they "updated" this one to better flow into 2, it just seems too perfect of a fit. This is an absolute must-see if you are planning to see 2. Maybe twice.
The Woman King
(2022)
Overall a well executed movie
16 September 2022
Viola is the only recognized name but she doesn't dominate the screen time, and that's a good thing. While Voila has her own storyline, many of the characters have their own storyline. The overall story is unique as it starts with the local tribal dynamics, and not countries. It also touches upon a subject that has been given very little publication time, and that's African's participation in the global slave trade and misogyny. Pretty solid acting, enunciating and timing with just about all the characters; both many and few adding to the overall depth of the movie. Personally, I don't think it's Braveheart and Black Panther as much as more of a person's painful past determining their path, and that goes with a lot of characters; not just Viola's. Coordinate that altogether and you have one fine movie.
Quite the Satire, Entertaining enough
3 September 2022
OK, I know just about nothing about how the evangelical world is perceived and I haven't seen any other movies or even TV programs about it (true or not, or other than your 2-minute preaching/singing clip) but if you accept this as a mockumentary, it really isn't that bad. I think you can enjoy it for what it is; a satire about big ego, greed, power, delusion and denial. Overall, all of the actors are just OK. No real over-the-top performance but acceptable. I can't help but think they missed a great opportunity. Honestly, I think if this had a Madea/Tyler Perry spin to this, it would have been a hit.
Last Looks
(I) (2021)
Get Shorty flavor with a weaker cast but still fun
21 August 2022
In spite of quite a few things other reviewers have brought up, it was still an enjoyable movie to watch. The cast of characters throughout the movie made the movie move along and stay engaged. Mel is a bit miscast but he does have quite a few punchy lines that more than makes up for it. I would have given it a higher rating if they covered up some of the holes a little but it's still a good watch regardless. Enjoy.
Beast
(I) (2022)
Only because it's Idris and Sharlto....
19 August 2022
OK, I'm biased. I like these 2 actors and I only saw this movie because of them. Regardless, pretty light writing and the supporting cast wasn't much help. This could (actually would) have been a lot better if they wrote a script for these 2 actors and let them run with the show. If you're not an Iris and Sharlto fan, there are other options.
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