daisukereds Reviews

Sex and the Single Girl (1964)

"That's all I want lady! A chance to show what I can really do"

[8/10 · 30 May 2024]

I'm thankful I've been on a Nataly Wood kick recently.. for I knew nothing going in, and simply loved it.

This comedy-romance is delightfully "on the nose" and truly refreshing! The world-building is intriguingly absurd (almost to the point of being a farce),which only enhanced my enjoyment! The characters are brimming with energy, and their mischievous antics make their enthusiasm contagious.

The initial premise vaguely reminded me of "Down with Love" (2003), but the ensuing chaos is a stark reminder that films aren't made the same way anymore. And the icing on the cake? The ending is absolutely perfect! It has a hint of "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World" (1963), and I wished it could have gone on for hours! Haven't had this much fun with such nonsensical and unexpected little details and lines! I just hope I forget enough to enjoy it again in the future.

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024)

"I hold him profoundly in contempt"

[7/10 · 28 May 2024]

I quite enjoyed it! The story is a very interesting chapter in Immortan Joe's difficult reign! With survival and leadership amidst a landscape filled with covetous and ambitious individuals vying for power.

Fury Road's cinematic and chaotic style catered well to general audiences and garnered significant word of mouth. But it was relentless! Furiosa, on the other hand, seems to lack that same impact (which might affect its box office performance).. but is not a detriment! This installment felt more in line with the latter two movies of the original trilogy, and the world building is satisfying.

Still, I do think Anya Taylor-Joy's portrayal felt "too childish" for the role (even at the end). While she is usually quite charming, she doesn't physically embody Furiosa, especially when considering the direct connection to the Fury Road version. The lack of dialogue and presence further detracted from her performance. Chris delivered a very memorable character despite being somewhat tame compared to my expectations. But he fits perfectly. Tom Burke's Praetor Jack stood out as my favorite character, reminiscent of Iroquois Pliskin. Lastly, the CGI appeared under-polished, suggesting either a reduced budget or a rushed production.

Be it the impact of grandiose set-pieces or over the top and fresh world-building, or a lack of more memorable characters (what we did get felt like a glimpse of MGS villains, but with little screen time).. I can't quite put my finger on it, but it is lacking something.

Easily recommended.

Splendor in the Grass (1961)

"The exact damn thing! Just as pretty.."

[6/10 · 27 May 2024]

This is a rather messy romantic-drama, where developments sway into extremes, and the young leads have powerful-emotions they don't truly understand.. and as they force themselves to not explore them, it is enough to almost make them explode! In a way, the developments seem rather childish and almost everyone in it feels inadequate.

The exact message is seemingly lost to me in the many scenes where adults are incapable of providing the necessary mental support. Still, I quite like the core ideas of thoughtless and inseparable love, of callow youthful-passion, societal expectations, of a force that pushes almost everyone into swimming against their will, the pain of unfulfilled desires, of mental health, and even the theme of loss and acceptance. As it aptly says, "gotta take what comes"! But the execution leaves a lot to be desired, at least to someone with today's sensibilities. The intensity seems to much to bear and even understand. And while it does feel somewhat dated, I can still understand it.. even if there's little to take out of it.

I'd watch anything with Natalie Wood in it, but I would have loved for someone to deliver a more polished version of this script.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners (2022)

"I'll take you to the moon"

[4/10 · 26 May 2024]

Take the visuals away.. what do you have?

This feels like a story that loops onto itself rather pointlessly, where the details in between (after the setup of the 2nd - 3rd episode) can be completely skipped without affecting the delivery of the last episode's ending. It all doesn't make for a compelling or deep narrative experience either way.. the plot isn't memorable, and no characters is actually likeable. Calling this "mature content" because people constantly blow-up into small pieces of gory meat, is rather childish. Specially since the story itself is way too boring and plain to even complain about.

If you like studio Trigger's crisp animation and character design, you'll definitely get something out of it. But if you don't like meandering and pointless content that pretends to be more than it actually can deliver.. you can safely lower your expectations and maybe even skip this.

Crimson Peak (2015)

"Love makes monsters of us all"

[7/10 · 26 May 2024]

A bloody mystery movie set in a Victorian-like era.

Had I read this as a book, I probably wouldn't have cared for it. And Toro's characteristic over-reliance on style over substance is palpable here as well.. with a clichéd story and characters that might lack development and narrative depth, as if static portraits of people.

The lines are good, but it is their exact delivery and the cast's presence that gives them weight. It is the atmospheric and intricate set designs and locations, along with the stunning costumes, that transports the audience to the eerie, yet beautiful, world of Crimson Peak.

No other movie has made me appreciate the collaborative effort of the entire crew, playing a crucial role in my enjoyment of a film. One person isn't capable of creating something worthwhile, and attributing it all to one man is nonsense! It is a testament to the hard work of departments such as production design and many others, that their harmonious work has otherwise brought this gothic romance story to life! Almost all present elements overshadow the narrative flaws, making the movie more enjoyable than it might have been otherwise.

It is a film with many elements, that luckily still work when stacked onto each other.

Still some that feel 'unnecessary' in retrospect, such as the addition of ghosts and horrors, that only seem to serve as tools to drive the plot forward, rather than being integral to the story! As the general story could have been told without them. Still, they help provide an allure that would have otherwise lacked. Also, it presents a premise that unfurls and develops rather slowly and to a rather predictable demise.

All together makes for a visual experience that overshadows the lacking narrative and it's flaws. Making it more enjoyable than it might have been otherwise.

It may not offer a groundbreaking story, but its execution is a a stroke of luck in atmospheric "unnecessary" horror and period drama.

Atlas (2024)

"Do you prefer Pie or Cake?"

[5/10 · 24 May 2024]

The setup is quick and painless.

AI takes over the world and spreads in a threatening manner. In a surprising (and completely illogical) twist, the machines flees Earth. Twenty Eight years later, humanity must end what they started.

I'm beyond impressed at how a seemingly generic sci-fi movie, can have this level of production, appealing visuals, as well as designs in general (alien planets, interfaces, technology). On the other hand, I'm equally disappointed on what the movie delivers as a story.

The script is so vanilla, generic and predictable that it makes an otherwise excellent execution of an awful script, feel like a complete waste. Also, there are 4 actors on this movie, and I liked half of them.. neither were the lead or the villain and have little screen time. Sadly, Lopez is a detriment to the narrative, as the pacing tanks with her continuously stopping to deliberate on "unfun" ideas and awfully boring interactions. Also the action probably clocks at 30 minutes of a length of 2 hours!

It does have an interesting technological idea that only works as a concepts. And many things require that you don't stop to think about anything, or your disbelief on your lead and technology would hamper whatever you can muster from this film.

I would have loved for someone with an interesting idea to have had access to this level of polish and delivery.

Can you imagine them producing a (good) Gundam movie that looks like this!?

Boy Kills World (2023)

"The expertly crafted and incredibly lifelike dialogue"

[5/10 · 23 May 2024]

Decent setup, excellent choreographies, and impressive camerawork. That's it.

A generic Hunger Games dystopian world that isn't really explored, and poorly developed plot is at fault for my lack of enjoyment. No element feels like a real threat, the ending is always in sight (predictable developments) and the narrative makes it hard for you to root/care about anyone.. Then the poor dialogue, the voice of "coach MacGuirk" is WAY too distracting, the predictability of the narrative, the pacing, the awful attempts "comedy". From the cast, only Bill Skarsgård and Jessica Rothe stand out (one more than the other)! Mostly due to their "physical presence". Aside from them, the character of Brett Gelman had a lot of charm (even with so little screen-time). The rest of the characters are quite forgettable and generic. All style, no Substance.

As a film, I was put off by it. That which should have been fun, felt like a chore.. but I also had too many expectations.

I could not recommend it, aside from the action scenes. Given score due to visuals and for what I imagine to be copious-amounts of stunt work and effort put by the supporting crew.

The Fall Guy (2024)

"Even better than what you find in the movies"

[7/10 · 22 May 2024]

A giant stunt palooza! And an ode to all the incredible things these actors and supporting cast do.

With enough levity to make the world building feel like you are watching a skit or a cartoon.

Sadly, the story itself is just serviceable.. with a basic criminal plot, but plenty of fun moments. And while the silliness doesn't detract from how energetic and fast paced it feels, it still feels simple, short and compact. Lovely credits, though! From the behind the cameras, to the script-like credits. The other high point is definitely the varied cast (Winston Duke continues to be a treat) and the well-written characters. Oh! There's a bit of a Romance and "moving on" theme, as well as achieving that "happy ending".. barely.

I mean, we are all here for Ryan Gosling.. go watch it if you can.

Jimmy Carr: Natural Born Killer (2024)

"I shouldn't have said it, but I'm not wrong"

[6/10 · 20 May 2024]

I personally rarely ever watch comedy shows, as I rarely enjoy the act of sitting down, knowingly expecting myself to laugh for the next hour or so.. but I quite like Jimmy Carr.

From his funny-memorable laugh, to his general attitude and approach to comey! Smartly knows that jokes are like Magnets for people.. and a (sometimes) tad relentless when interacting with his audience, which is easily the best of such a show.

In the end, I would rank this Comedy Show higher than I would as a general piece of entertaining. And I'd even be willing to recommend it.. IF you are fine with a Laundry List of jokes.

Normally, expect a better flow from lines to laugh, to next line. Even a bit of showmanship! Not necessarily a narrative, but maybe a core concept to try and tie it all together! This one is noticeably lacking in cohesion.. enough to feel underwritten. Like going from marriage propositions, directly to "I don't understand mother in laws". So it was fine in the end, had a few chuckles! But I'm sure he could do better.

Shin Godzilla (2016)

"Watashi wa suki ni shita.. kimi-ra mo suki ni shiro!"

[7/10 · 16 May 2024]

Hideaki Anno's wet dream.. No other way to describe it.

It is the only type of story he is capable of telling, and you can feel his fingerprints all over it. Thankfully(?), they must have slowed him down and prevented the narrative from delving into the depths of his unbridled whimsy!! After so long and no sequel, just take the final scene as the interesting visual it is.

As for the script itself, I enjoyed it very much! Even if Shin Gojira also feels very familiar.. I'd go as far as call these developments as an alternate retelling of an Evangelion Prologue. A more detailed response to the first appearance of an Angel, and the prelude to Evangelion deployment. Not so much humanity versus a walking-reactor God.. but humanity against itself on 2 fronts.

Personally, I find it impressive that this came out 8 years before the recent release of the popular "Godzilla - Minus One"! One that feels lesser in comparison, as it doesn't stringe for innovate on any front, and only aims to retells a story that didn't need yet another flavorless remake. This one is very focused, much more engrossing and developed than its counterpart. With elements of chaos, environmental destruction, ineffective government response, unfounded optimism, human indifference and idiocy of general populace. All tied to the retaliatory willpower of one entity! With an excellent scientific framework and novel approach that changes things enough to feel new, even if still in line with the intentions of the original.

My only lament, is that it doesn't have the visuals that Hollywood's King Kong x Godzilla does.. because the cheap CGI (whether on purpose or not) is a real detriment.

Tailenders (2009)

"Your top speed is a concept in itself"

[5/10 · 14 May 2024]

The movie Redline, this is not.

Around 20 minutes for a short that swirls around the idea of "racing", but doesn't provide much in that department and leaves one disappointed. While the art style is somewhat appealing, there's no memorable moment in its animation to truly celebrate. Add to that a story that barely starts and doesn't really end, simplistic designs, shallow characters, hollow aspirations and world building that is as scarce as its length.

It isn't particularly annoying or bad in any of its elements, just generic and utterly harmless. Can't really recommend something I barely feel like I watched.

eX-Driver (2000–2001)

"Iwa iwa, tsuini atashi wo koero otoko ga arawareta!"

[5/10 · 14 May 2024]

PLOT - In a world of AI-controlled driving, a police force with 2 professional female teenagers drive gasoline-cars and prevent faulty vehicle-related incidents. Soon, a kid joins the job on a cliché 6 episode series (+ Movie).

The premise is REALLY simplistic, and the lack of imaginative world-building (specially for the time), leave a lot to be desired. Also! If there's something I don't like in a script.. it's shallow dialogue and pointless interactions. With lots of time-wasting scenes, lack of logic, and annoying comments from character make for a frustrating watching experience. Still, the animation is quite good! Though the constant change in camera-angles destroys the flow of the movement, which detracts from exciting speedy-car-movements. In the hands of better direction, these could have been memorable (Riding Bean from 1989 comes to mind)! But all together provides a generic and forgettable short series.

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024)

"Lucky for us.. the prototype had already been transported to Hollow Earth for testing"

[6/10 · 14 May 2024]

I for one appreciate the script on this one (or a lack of)! But still glad I didn't watch this on theaters.

The constant "Primal Rage" battles with over the top cinematics and relentless action, and (more importantly) a small little human moment, while maintaining little presence throughout the film! There's so little dialogue, you could choose random points in the movie with a high probability of "no one talking"!! They ALMOST got it perfectly this time, too.. buy there's always that one out-of-place character that feels annoying and distracting.

And sadly, it still require you to shut-off your brain, as almost everything that happens is so too disconnected from reality and lacking in logical explanations. But this is a Monster Mash, and it does so very well! You can leave the more human and scientific storytelling to TOHO, whom are perfectly content with telling the same story as many times as possible. Fun and it moves rather fast, so it is easy to watch! And the great CGI helps too.

Hunter Killer (2018)

"I can.. I'm looking at him"

[7/10 · 12 May 2024]

You have a sudden mystery and spark for possible all-out conflict, where professional men are asked to do the impossible in an off-of-the-record mission.

This is one of those fictional War movies that seem too short in retrospect.. at least when thinking about summarizing on a paragraph or two.

There are plenty of underwater action (albeit nothing out of the ordinary), military tactics, some tension and a decent conclusion. The draw, for me, are the good interactions between the cast. It does have a tired-plot that is executed rather well, and plenty developments with a lot "trust me" moments. But it is rather enjoyable, and reminded me of similar 90s films of the same genre.

The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare (2024)

"You again?"

[7/10 · 12 May 2024]

An unsanctioned British mission, composed of colorful characters from different backgrounds, against Nazi U-Boat Submarines that terrorized the seas and prevented the Americans from joining the war.

This is more a history lesson than it is an Action-Comedy. As I didn't know much going in, I was expecting a Guy Ritchie movie, but realized this was closer to fact than fiction sooner rather than later.

Still, the story has good pacing and excellent execution, but it is rather tame and steady. Even so, the developments entertain quite a bit and conclude in a satisfying manner! And the main attraction is the charming cast.. the lot of 'em! Which makes this more pleasant than one could expect. Otherwise, the rare opposition somewhat drains the script of tense moments, even if an occasional wrench is thrown in the mix! And the lack of more memorable moments also hurts it a bit.. but there's little to do when working with the truth.

I can easily recommend it, but don't expect to jump off your seat.

Abigail (2024)

"My lovely pack of rats"

[7/10 · 10 May 2024]

Campy and cheese Horror.

At a point.. I wasn't sure how it was going to go. But then you look back and the outcome is painfully obvious, with the copious amounts of foreshadowing and the generic script-structure doesn't leave much room either. But it still manages to be quite entertaining for what it is! The premise is strong enough as a foundation. But more than that.. it is the good performances, the likeable characters, and the carefree-attitude (that they nailed) that makes it enjoyable.

Still, I just wished the trailer and image before playing play wasn't a spoiler! I mean, talk about shooting yourself in the foot and deflating part of the experience for no reason. Even so, easy recommendation if you like this sort of thing.

Call Me Chihiro (2023)

Pre-peeled chestnuts

[8/10 · 7 May 2024]

(Seeing something like "Past Lives" (same year of 2023) get an Oscar nomination over something like this puts a sour taste in my mouth).

This is the kind of movie that does impressively well what it sets out to tell.

Messages between the lines, charming performances and an air of loneliness and camaraderie. It all makes you ponder at how painful life can be, and how it can all easily go away with the right company. Or how you don't really get to know how hard someone's life is at a given moment, and how there's people that are kind just when you need them to being some of the most rare and special. The sort of people you'd hope you'd meet throughout your life.

I enjoyed more than I expected! And would easily recommend it, as it isn't too deep or meandering. But the pie of life it offers is quite sweet and sour.

... now feel like eating Ramen.

Samurai I: Musashi Miyamoto (1954)

"A Samurai's wife sends off her man with a smile"

[6/10 · 28 April 2024]

If you want to watch this film, you HAVE to watch the 2 following movies.

Together, they make more of a TV show season! And alone, this introductory story isn't particularly satisfying.. nor does it feel as if it provides a complete narrative either, as it tries to tell the entire life of Musashi Miyamoto. And so, I review the entire story and not just this first entry here (otherwise, I would have to lower its score by quite a margin).

I feel it has pacing issues, a lack of focus in some themes and moments, and constantly shifts to other things without a proper setup or conclusion. It's also has elements of period "romance", which is sometimes hard to enjoy (specially for those not accustomed to Japanese culture). It also lacks excitement or truly memorable moments (be it battles or interactions).. but it does have a good cast and the famed and always impressive Toshiro Mifune, and it is very well produced. I wasn't particularly blown away, but I also ended up watching them one after the other. So, while I would have wanted to get more out of it, it is enough to satisfy a fan of these films.. albeit barely.

The Great Race (1965)

"Ladies, kindly remove your hats"

[8/10 · 28 April 2024]

The daring people's hero versus his rival, the overly-competitive evil genius, race from New York to Paris!

I had some expectations.. and they were completely blown off!

From the cartoonish and delightful developments, the memorable lines and moments throughout.. to the memorable portrayal of everyone involved!! Specially the beyond-charming Natalie Wood. At around 2 hours and 30 minutes, there's plenty going on and doesn't feel slow (even for its time), in a way movies are not created any more. Impressive choreographies, production, fun and plenty of musical.

What an enjoyable evening! A must see for anyone interested in good cinema.

City Hunter (2024)

"Big talk for a little Maggot!"

[7/10 · 27 April 2024]

Hired help, City Hunter, stumbles into a generic sci-fi plot of super-soldier drugs and a secret organization.

I've read and watched City Hunter over the years. And I believe this is the third Live-Action adaptation of Tsukasa Hojo's Manga (with Jackie Chan in 1993 and a rather strange-but-enjoyable French version), only to finally be adapted by Japan around 30-years later!! Personally, any adaptation that properly incorporates the "giant mallet" without feeling forced, gets a pass in my books.

But beyond the average script, there are many likeable elements and an excellent execution. With a good cast that delivers charming performances and keeps a suitable tone throughout. I was expecting more silliness and over the top situations, but it knows how to behave itself. Specially the lead, who is portrayed as a VERY reliable person.. and unrealistically impressive, even! I quite liked Ryohei Suzuki, specially since he is what I'd physically imagine Saeba to be!

So, while the story is barely okay.. the Action more than makes up for it. And while I would have liked to see this as a series with a better plot but all the same parts, what it is is good enough to recommend.

Hissatsu!: Sure Death! (1984)

"Can't practice without an audience"

[4/10 · 26 April 2024]

You have a group of assassins that lead normal daily lives in a small town.. taking work as it comes, and otherwise, living in poor conditions. Then, they are threatened by another group of unknown assassins. They fight, movie ends.

Not gonna lie.. I was quite disappointed with my viewing and just wanted it to end after a while.

This feels like a somewhat aimless story with an underwritten script, or a side story to an existing show, where the character backgrounds actually matter. With a story that seems to lack a decent structure, exciting developments and a well planned groundwork to make any part of it compelling! With a lack of depth, music repeating noticeably, clashing tone of grim and silly.. There's little reason to recommend it, too.

The Last Duel (2021)

"And there's no end to my decency"

[5/10 · 25 April 2024]

Ah! I was led to believe this was almost three stories in one.

Thankfully, the script is more straightforward and plain than it could have mustered, and it doesn't muddle the narrative with unnecessary distractions of poorly-written plots or different points of view when it comes to morals (specially for that time). Someone is "right", and whatever comes of it does not displease! That is to say, I quite enjoyed the good production and decent execution of it all, as well as most of the cast and their acting.. Yet the movie is a tad too long, lacks in charms/memorability/dialogue/intrigue and the spark that would give one satisfaction with its developments. It is also quite hard to be enthralled when there is no side to be taken, by a lack of interest or appealing prospects! Only an enjoyment of the happenings of that time-setting and a conclusion to a premise.

A fine movie! Not made for me. But, I'm sure it will enrich those that seek this genre.

River (2023)

"I'm a bit tired.. Body and Mind"

[6/10 · 24 April 2024]

More than a movie.. this is feels like an interesting short/project (one seemingly funded via MotionGallery).

You can see the amateurish cinematography, where you are reminded that there's someone behind a camera running around. The acting is good (for the most part), the characters energetic, the location makes the film, and the developments entertaining enough to retain one's attention. The OST is memorable and the ending a bit out there.. which makes it all a very particular and memorable experience!! Eloquent human-self centrism appreciated.

I've seen enough things (even Japanese) not to be surprised or shocked by the developments. But it is quite fun and some might even find it very different! Reason enough for me to encourage anyone into giving it a try.

Brooklyn (2015)

"There's nothing you can do about it apart from endure it"

[6/10 · 24 April 2024]

Homesickness, romance, tragedy.. and resolution.

This somewhat reminded me of 2023's "Past Lives" (except the tragedy part)! With a rather simple plot, while very character-centered. With a lot of time put into the weight on one's actions, decisions, thoughts and emotions. It is very well executed, and if you are in the mood, you'll feel it more than you will remember it! Still, it feels like an episode or a summary more than a movie (even with an almost-2-hour runtime).

It is well acted, but not particularly memorable. It is well shot and lit, and sometimes it feels a tad too quiet. But I enjoyed it still, although I wouldn't particularly recommend it for any particular element of it.

47 Ronin (1994)

"In that case.. do what you want"

[5/10 · 22 April 2024]

Plot : Two Feudal Lords have a dispute inside the Shogun's Castle (drawing of swords is prohibited!). In response, one of these clans is immediately abolished and the head is ordered to commit suicide. The poor investigation and prompt response leaves the clan-less Samurai disappointed, and bow to seek revenge for their master's wrongful death against the other involved Clan head..

Review : Another reviewer said that it isn't for anyone that doesn't already know the story.. and I agree completely.

The story is hard to follow from the start, as the most important events happen off screen and the narrative builds from that! I felt the film demands too much piecing-together from the audience!! Thankfully, this popular story has been done too many times. And I can highly recommend the much better (1978) "The Fall of Ako Castle" (with Toshiro Mifune) for first time viewers. Sadly, I also found the pacing, structure and other important story-telling details to hinder my enjoyment.. even after I realized what I was watching.