16 reviews
- nogodnomasters
- Aug 12, 2023
- Permalink
No pun intended - you have to have some love for B-movie action movies to say the least. Also being a fan of Michael Jai White does help. I am not sure if I heard him say this in an interview or not ... but there are some fight scenes in this that he would not suggest doing in real life. Anytime anyone is doing something with knives for example ... but this is a movie, so suspend your disbelief and go with the flow (of fighting).
The story is quite simple - the inciting incident is ... well it may feel bad and over the top at first ... but if you think about the character, it does make sense. The main bad guy may not feel like the best rival for our hero in the end ... but we circle back to the suspension and hopefully you just get with it ... seen worse movies ... and the action is quite decent ...
The story is quite simple - the inciting incident is ... well it may feel bad and over the top at first ... but if you think about the character, it does make sense. The main bad guy may not feel like the best rival for our hero in the end ... but we circle back to the suspension and hopefully you just get with it ... seen worse movies ... and the action is quite decent ...
This B-movie action revenge drama opens on an unnamed Caribbean island. Wealthy Colombian Manuel is interviewing a singer; when the waiter who is serving them spills wine on her he murders the man! The waiter has a brother, Mark, who works for the LAPD; he returns to the island and doesn't believe what he is told about his brother getting mixed up with gangs that have troubled the island in recent years. As Mark starts investigating Manuel sends his thugs after him... inevitably this goes badly for them and Mark has Manuel in his sights. It won't be easy though; Manuel is a danger to anybody close to Mark and he has a lot of people working for him.
This is not a great film; the plot is fairly cliché and the outcome won't surprise anybody. That said no one would claim it aspired to greatness; it is just trying to be an entertaining action drama made on a relatively tight budget... at this is succeeds. The opening scenes effectively introduce the villain then our hero and the story is quickly under way. There are plenty of action scenes spread throughout the movie with just enough conversational scenes in between to advance the plot. The action is decent enough with martial arts and gun-play. Michael Jai White is solid as Mark; good enough to think he deserves better material in future. The rest of the cast are okay even if some are a bit hammy... the genre almost demands that. The setting, filmed in location in St Kitts and Nevis looks great. Overall I'd say this is fun enough; worth watching if you enjoy the lesser action films that were churned out in the '80s and '90s.
This is not a great film; the plot is fairly cliché and the outcome won't surprise anybody. That said no one would claim it aspired to greatness; it is just trying to be an entertaining action drama made on a relatively tight budget... at this is succeeds. The opening scenes effectively introduce the villain then our hero and the story is quickly under way. There are plenty of action scenes spread throughout the movie with just enough conversational scenes in between to advance the plot. The action is decent enough with martial arts and gun-play. Michael Jai White is solid as Mark; good enough to think he deserves better material in future. The rest of the cast are okay even if some are a bit hammy... the genre almost demands that. The setting, filmed in location in St Kitts and Nevis looks great. Overall I'd say this is fun enough; worth watching if you enjoy the lesser action films that were churned out in the '80s and '90s.
This movie is 100% miss able. Within minutes I knew I was in for a raw deal. The only reason I stick it out was so I could say I saw it and have every right, therefore to trash the steaming pile. . .
Bad writing, bad acting, bad directing. It you took a nap while it was on, you got the best out of the deal. This is not a joke.
Now, an aside to the shillers that "reviewed" this mindnumbing hogwash, if you are gonna shill don't go over the top with your 10 star ratings and your raving review. It's waaaaay too obvious that "here be unalloyed, unashamed shilling". Those are red flags. A good shill is a 6-7 rating and some toned down texts that tries to show some balance in your dreck. Serve up some appreciaition for this and for that. Then mention one or two places that could have been better. Stuff like that.
Whatever you do, always remember that yes, a rose is still a rose even if you call it a venus fly trap.
Conversely, a full outhouse is still is still a full outhouse even if you call it the Waldorf Astoria.
Bad writing, bad acting, bad directing. It you took a nap while it was on, you got the best out of the deal. This is not a joke.
Now, an aside to the shillers that "reviewed" this mindnumbing hogwash, if you are gonna shill don't go over the top with your 10 star ratings and your raving review. It's waaaaay too obvious that "here be unalloyed, unashamed shilling". Those are red flags. A good shill is a 6-7 rating and some toned down texts that tries to show some balance in your dreck. Serve up some appreciaition for this and for that. Then mention one or two places that could have been better. Stuff like that.
Whatever you do, always remember that yes, a rose is still a rose even if you call it a venus fly trap.
Conversely, a full outhouse is still is still a full outhouse even if you call it the Waldorf Astoria.
- clivejamesrd
- Aug 9, 2023
- Permalink
I'm a fan of MJW and he's fun in most B films, but even he deserves better than this nonsense. His action/fighting skills are barely seen in this mess, and when you do see them, they are terribly filmed and choreographed. Maybe a few kicks where decently viewable and impressive.
This film suffered amateur-hour filmmaking. The directing was in line with what you'd expect to see from a fifth grade drama class. Then it took two writers to come up with a predictable, generic, cliched and dull story that's been done many times before, and all much better. Even the normally comfortable 90 min runtime felt endless with the slow pacing, long dragged out and mostly unnecessary scenes. The score was your typical B-film fare, loud, overbearing and unfitting. Most of the actors were portrayed as cartoonish cliched characters to the point of cringe and eyerolls.
Even if you're a fan of MJW, don't waste your time with this nonsense, it barely classifies as a bad B-film, more like a bad C-film if such category existed. Aside from the similar pretty ariel scenic Hawaiian landscape shots, there's nothing redeemable or worth watching in this mess.
This film suffered amateur-hour filmmaking. The directing was in line with what you'd expect to see from a fifth grade drama class. Then it took two writers to come up with a predictable, generic, cliched and dull story that's been done many times before, and all much better. Even the normally comfortable 90 min runtime felt endless with the slow pacing, long dragged out and mostly unnecessary scenes. The score was your typical B-film fare, loud, overbearing and unfitting. Most of the actors were portrayed as cartoonish cliched characters to the point of cringe and eyerolls.
Even if you're a fan of MJW, don't waste your time with this nonsense, it barely classifies as a bad B-film, more like a bad C-film if such category existed. Aside from the similar pretty ariel scenic Hawaiian landscape shots, there's nothing redeemable or worth watching in this mess.
- Top_Dawg_Critic
- Jul 25, 2023
- Permalink
I love Michael Jai White acting/fighting skills but they were totally wasted in this movie. For an actor of his caliber, he deserves much better. I just sat through the entire movie just for his sake but I can conclude it was terrible.
The writing, acting and directing are just horrendous. Bad acting portrayed in the movie. The storyline was just all over the place. Some scenes didn't make sense, couldn't make out their importance. For anyone wanting to watch this movie, I will advise not to waste your time. I gave it a 3 rating just because of Michael Jai White, otherwise it would have been much lower.
The writing, acting and directing are just horrendous. Bad acting portrayed in the movie. The storyline was just all over the place. Some scenes didn't make sense, couldn't make out their importance. For anyone wanting to watch this movie, I will advise not to waste your time. I gave it a 3 rating just because of Michael Jai White, otherwise it would have been much lower.
- keshmacharia
- Aug 13, 2023
- Permalink
Michael Jai White, a supremely skilled martial artist and actor, has graced both remarkable and forgettable films with his presence. Known for his impressive combat abilities and powerful screen presence, White's talent is undeniable. However, even a martial arts master like him cannot always rescue a movie from a weak script or lackluster direction.
While he has starred in some acclaimed action films like "Black Dynamite," he has also appeared in less successful works.
Sometimes (pretty often), scripts are written by inexperienced or underqualified writers who may lack the skills to create a compelling and coherent story.
While he has starred in some acclaimed action films like "Black Dynamite," he has also appeared in less successful works.
Sometimes (pretty often), scripts are written by inexperienced or underqualified writers who may lack the skills to create a compelling and coherent story.
Director Shaun Piccinino's latest film, "The Island," featuring the charismatic and formidable Michael Jai White, is a gripping return to classic action cinema. This action-packed thriller takes viewers on a suspenseful journey of revenge, set against a backdrop of a beautiful island paradise corrupted by a nefarious tycoon.
Michael Jai White delivers a powerhouse performance as LAPD officer Mark, whose life takes a tragic turn when his brother is brutally murdered. The loss of his loved one propels him on a relentless quest for answers and, ultimately, vengeance. White's portrayal of a man seeking justice is both emotionally charged and physically commanding, showcasing his impressive martial arts skills.
One of the film's standout elements is its lush cinematography. The Island setting, with its pristine beaches and lush jungles, starkly contrasts the violence that unfolds.
The cinematography expertly captures the beauty of the location, only to contrast it with the darkness that lurks beneath the surface.
Piccinino masterfully uses the island's natural beauty to intensify the action sequences' impact.
In conclusion, "The Island" is a captivating action thriller that allows Michael Jai White to shine in a role that showcases his acting and martial arts abilities. Shaun Piccinino's masterful direction, coupled with the film's picturesque setting and exhilarating action, makes it a must-see for fans of classic action cinema.
Michael Jai White delivers a powerhouse performance as LAPD officer Mark, whose life takes a tragic turn when his brother is brutally murdered. The loss of his loved one propels him on a relentless quest for answers and, ultimately, vengeance. White's portrayal of a man seeking justice is both emotionally charged and physically commanding, showcasing his impressive martial arts skills.
One of the film's standout elements is its lush cinematography. The Island setting, with its pristine beaches and lush jungles, starkly contrasts the violence that unfolds.
The cinematography expertly captures the beauty of the location, only to contrast it with the darkness that lurks beneath the surface.
Piccinino masterfully uses the island's natural beauty to intensify the action sequences' impact.
In conclusion, "The Island" is a captivating action thriller that allows Michael Jai White to shine in a role that showcases his acting and martial arts abilities. Shaun Piccinino's masterful direction, coupled with the film's picturesque setting and exhilarating action, makes it a must-see for fans of classic action cinema.
- genefreemanjr
- Oct 19, 2023
- Permalink
Don't listen to the troll haters just chomping at the bit to leave 1 star reviews. They live to tear others down. I watched this movie with open mind, knowing it's most likely a small budget action/revenge type film. From the opening minutes the scenery and landscapes of the island are absolutely stunning. Also I was taken by surprise towards the beginning (no spoilers though). As the film gets into action I was entertained every step along the way. Michael Jai is stoic and badass as always and his partner played by Jackson Rathbone was surprisingly funny! I want a sequel with more of their dynamic! The action through out is solid and the main villain (forget actors name) is really nasty (in a good villain way). This is a fun and solid watch that of course isn't going to win any Oscar's. My advice is don't listen to trolls and give it a watch.
- reviewsfilmfan
- Aug 18, 2023
- Permalink
This movie has it all for an action movie to watch with your friends, spouse, or by yourself. Great storyline, solid acting, beautiful photography, and wonderful music. The fight scenes were my favorite. I watched it with my wife on our day off and it was a fun afternoon.
Michael Jai White and Gillian White really worked well together, as well as Jackson Rathbone. Edoardo Costa played off perfect as my favorite bad guy.
I'm a retired policeman and former wrestler so I tend to judge movies harshly when it comes to firearm tactics and martial arts, but I saw nothing that stopped the flow of just a good action film.
Great movie. I'd watch it again.
All the best,
Kope.
Michael Jai White and Gillian White really worked well together, as well as Jackson Rathbone. Edoardo Costa played off perfect as my favorite bad guy.
I'm a retired policeman and former wrestler so I tend to judge movies harshly when it comes to firearm tactics and martial arts, but I saw nothing that stopped the flow of just a good action film.
Great movie. I'd watch it again.
All the best,
Kope.
- andykoponen
- Jul 21, 2023
- Permalink
I like action movies.
Not a huge critic - I leave that to them to argue amongst themselves, as they do. They think they can out-do each other.
It's actually a narcissistic trait.
So, the movie, the visuals are beautiful, the island is beautiful also, where this whole saga plays out.
So, I am not going to spoil anything.
It is a great watch, plenty of action and if you like gun movies, this is right up there, same goes for if you like drug runner movies, it's right there.
The story has many deaths, but from a vengeance perspective, a broth needlessly killed, transpires in the movie you are about to watch, and I hope you do.
Not a huge critic - I leave that to them to argue amongst themselves, as they do. They think they can out-do each other.
It's actually a narcissistic trait.
So, the movie, the visuals are beautiful, the island is beautiful also, where this whole saga plays out.
So, I am not going to spoil anything.
It is a great watch, plenty of action and if you like gun movies, this is right up there, same goes for if you like drug runner movies, it's right there.
The story has many deaths, but from a vengeance perspective, a broth needlessly killed, transpires in the movie you are about to watch, and I hope you do.
- haveachat-86334
- Aug 12, 2023
- Permalink
Michael Jai White does what he does so well!!! I set out to watch this movie without too big of expectations but was pleasantly surprised by the story, characters, location and the message. Michael's character love for his family doesn't allow him to do anything less then take on an entire criminal underworld (almost) by himself! Also I was surprised by some of the comic relief in here, especially by Michael's characters police partner. All in all this is a really fun, surprisingly bloody, action fest shot on a gorgeous Caribbean island. Highly recommend this popcorn action film, it's definitely worth a watch with your action film friends!
- actionmanfilmbuff
- Aug 18, 2023
- Permalink
Look of course this film falls into the B action movie genre and isn't going to be winning any oscars or golden globes. Be that as it may, for the type of ass kicking, revenge tale film that it is, it's really a cut above most others in this space. The heart of the film is family and standing up for where you came from. Reminds me of old samurai films in a lot of ways. I really enjoyed the premise, MJW totally kicking ass as usual, a villian we can love to hate and a beautiful setting such as this nameless Island. If you enjoy action films from the 80's and 90's this one is right up your alley!!!
- actionmovienerd
- Jan 29, 2024
- Permalink
I love action movies, that is my favorite genre. I watched The Island movie with a couple of friends and it was fun and very entertaining. Great storyline, good acting, amazing locations.
Michael Jai White is always great, and for actions fights there is no one better than him, Gillian White was great too, great presence on screen, as well as the rest of the cast specially the bad guys.
I think the Director, Shaun Piccinino knows how to get the best out of his actors as you can see on the screen. I've watched few of his films and I always think he is very talented and I think he is the next big director in Hollywood. I hope he does more action movies than romantic comedies, but I will watch anything he does. I recommend this movie as you will have a good time watching it! Enjoy.
Michael Jai White is always great, and for actions fights there is no one better than him, Gillian White was great too, great presence on screen, as well as the rest of the cast specially the bad guys.
I think the Director, Shaun Piccinino knows how to get the best out of his actors as you can see on the screen. I've watched few of his films and I always think he is very talented and I think he is the next big director in Hollywood. I hope he does more action movies than romantic comedies, but I will watch anything he does. I recommend this movie as you will have a good time watching it! Enjoy.
- joss-79529
- Jul 24, 2023
- Permalink
This movie perfectly portrays action and the connection of family. It is a must watch for any fan of action and beautiful cinematography. A beautiful location and great camera work, it is perfectly cast and is exhilarating to watch. Definitely worth the watch of the movie perfect revenge movie. If you love John Wick and Fast and Furious saga with the revenge of a loved one and is all about family this one is for you. The director definitely knows what he is doing, the beautiful shots and the score was just a genius at play. Definitely watch this and all the directors other movies, one of my new favorites for sure.
- ljjpiccinino
- Jul 22, 2023
- Permalink
This movie has very good acting by Michael Jai White and his wife. This was a very easy to follow, revenge action film with good fighting scenes, by Michael especially. He has great fighting scenes in the majority of his movies by the way.......maybe that's because he is a trained fighter in real life!!
This movie has enough action, drama and suspense to keep you interested. I like the fact that his real wife is also in the film. Both men f them are in great physical shape and she is an established actress as well, which is an added bonus. My husband and I enjoyed watching this. This movie is definitely worth watching!
This movie has enough action, drama and suspense to keep you interested. I like the fact that his real wife is also in the film. Both men f them are in great physical shape and she is an established actress as well, which is an added bonus. My husband and I enjoyed watching this. This movie is definitely worth watching!
- mcgee-96975
- Oct 26, 2024
- Permalink