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Growing up, I did not have the exciting vacations most kids had. No trips to the beach or to Disneyworld. Most winter, spring, and summer vacations were spent at other family members' homes. One particular cousin is a cinephile like me, and every summer I spent with him was always filled with late nights watching movies on cable television. I remember I stayed up for two nights watching a movie marathon hosted by TNT. The first one was a Godzilla marathon, watching all of the old-school Godzilla films, starting at 8 pm through the night until 6 am, taking commercial naps so I could stay up to finish the movie. The second was a Kung Fu-marathon. I remember the excitement while watching a movie and the anticipation while waiting for the next one to start. I was eager to discover what happened to the characters if a sequel was up next and the feeling of closure when everything was said and done. Those feelings are still present today anytime I watch a movie at home or in the theater. Each of those movies brought along many different things that added layers and created depth in the storytelling experience.
Movies have the unique ability to add to a story using many different methods. The soundtrack and score of a film can add drama and emotion to a scene and cause the viewers' emotions to change accordingly. The same music can transport us back to the movie experience and help us reminisce later in life. The visual effects can add things to a movie that we may not have imagined, seen, or are impossible. The locations a movie is filmed in can literally transport us to another part of the world and inspire us to travel there one day. The actors can deliver dialogues and use non-verbal communication to make characters feel real and relatable. These and many other things make the storytelling experience of a movie more immersible.
I enjoy partaking in other storytelling mediums, but movies are my comfort. After a bad or stressful day, watching a movie that elicits happy and joyful emotions is my go-to. If I feel stuck, an inspirational movie does just that; it inspires me to dream and work toward my goals. Books are great but require work, focus, and significant time investment, depending on your reading speed. Plays and the theater are fun and alternative mediums. Still, they can be expensive and unavailable in your area, and the seating usually needs to be more comfortable. Word-of-mouth storytelling is always a gamble since other people may not be as intriguing as they think. You need to be in the mindset to interact with another human being. Movies solve many of those problems and can transport you to another world or dimension or help you escape reality for a few hours. No matter how busy life gets or the state of the world, movies will always be my go-to for an escape.
Reviews
Gekijôban Spy x Family Code: White (2023)
Don't need to watch the series to enjoy this
Agent Loid created a fake family to accomplish his mission, but little did he know that each family member had a secret. His fake wife, Yor, was an international assassin, their adopted daughter, Anya, was a telepath, and their family pet, Bond, could predict the future. Anya was the key to his mission, and she now had to win a school cooking competition, so the family vacationed to find the perfect dessert. While enjoying their time together, they unknowingly stumble into a military operation. They must resolve the situation while maintaining their secrets.
This is an anime movie that extends a running series. Watching the series before this movie will help clarify what is happening, but it is unnecessary. The movie does a great job quickly recapping the essential elements of the series and focusing on the story. The movie is funny, entertaining, and a bit on the mature side. If you are a fan of the series or just want to watch an anime movie, this is entertaining.
Civil War (2024)
Completely fictional, but shows the part the press during war time
A group of journalists risk life and limb to travel through war-torn America, from New York City to Washington, D. C., to be the first to interview the President of the United States of America. As they journey through the country, they encounter and document different people, observe the devastation of the civil war, and experience the horrors of war. By the end of their journey, things did not go as planned, and the war took an unexpected turn, but they still did not give up on their goal.
Another outstanding A24-produced film focuses on the press and photojournalists' role during times of war. The story is engaging, sharing how the mentality of war differs from person to person and how society can change depending on that mentality. The story leaves it up to the audience to determine what may have started the war. The film has many warfare scenes, which adds to the depth and breadth of the story. This is an excellent watch, especially in theaters, because of the better sound quality.
The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare (2024)
A true story told with some comedy
With the Nazis advancing across Europe and U-boats cutting off the safe passage of supplies and soldiers from America, Winston Churchill decides to take an unorthodox approach. He turns to a man to undertake an unsanctioned mission to turn the tide of the war and give Great Britain and the rest of the world a fighting chance.
This movie is based on documents declassified in 2016. It shares the story of these brave men in a simple, humorous, and straightforward way. The movie is a mix of war, espionage, and history. The action is not over the top, gory, or excessively violent. This is an excellent watch for history buffs, spy fans, or anyone looking for something entertaining and not requiring a lot of thought.
Sasquatch Sunset (2024)
Can go either way.
A "nature" film follows four Sasquatch living in their habitat. Going through the natural cycle of the seasons and mating season, they travel through the woods. As they migrate across the region, they sense a change, encounter strange things, and experience tragedy.
This movie is supposed to be a comedy, which may be appropriate if you are really into dark humor. However, the movie has no dialogue, which can cause your attention to drift. Quite a few WTF moments will make you laugh and take a moment. The movie's underlying premise is how humans affect the environment and natural habits. This movie is not for everyone, but it will impress you if you can get through it. Stream it for something different.
La chimera (2023)
Interesting but lacks backstory
A foreign archeologist, out of touch with reality, uses his gift to find and raid tombs with his gang of grave robbers. Events have transpired, leaving him roaming the country, isolated. With every tomb they raid, the man looks for more than artifacts left by a past society.
This is an intriguing Italian film, but some cultural background might be necessary to understand the story entirely. The protagonist's lack of a backstory makes the story a bit complicated. The film is long, slow, and requires the reading of subtitles. This film may not be for everyone, but it is worth a watch if you are looking for something outside of mainstream Hollywood.
Arcadian (2024)
No backstory, all survival
A father and his twin sons have survived the end of the world for fifteen years. As teenagers, the boys have grown into young men and become independent and rambunctious. As they quarrel and go their separate ways one day, their lives are threatened again, and they must fight for survival.
This is a simple end-of-the-world, post-apocalypse survival movie. The story gets straight to the point, giving little to no backstory on the characters or what caused the world's end. There is not a lot of action and a bit of suspense. The runtime of the movie is short. This might not be worth watching in theaters, but it is worth streaming.
The Long Game (2023)
Enjoyable for both golfers and non-golfers
A superintendent and five high school students set out to show that everyone, even Mexicans, is welcome on the golf course. They start a golf team with a single goal: to win and reach the state championship. Along the way, they face racism and obstacles but do not waver in their goal.
This is an inspirational true story about a group of teenagers and their coaches going against the odds and societal norms. The film has a bit of comedy, emotion, drama, and golf. The film quickly gets to the main parts of the story, sharing details and backstory along the way. The film is not heavy on golf but has enough to keep golf and non-golf fans interested. The film sheds some light on how non-white American soldiers were treated during and after the war, which is eye-opening and heartbreaking. This is a great sports film, regardless of whether you are a golf fan.
Monkey Man (2024)
Revenge movie, but Indian
Tormented by his past and bereaved by the murder of his mother, a young man gets knocked around while plotting his revenge. Before he can exact his revenge, he must come to terms with his past and accept who he is.
This movie has a straightforward storyline: revenge. What makes it different from other revenge movies is that it is set entirely in India and incorporates aspects of the culture, people, politics, and religion. Despite the story getting straight to the point, some parts could be removed to streamline it. The action is on par with other great action movies, and the violence, gore, blood, and viscera are out the top. This is an excellent watch for adults and what inclusion should be like in Hollywood.
Wicked Little Letters (2023)
Based on a true story, this is a fun watch.
Edith Swan has been anonymously receiving vulgar and profane letters, and she decided to take action. She reports her neighbor, a foul-mouthed single mother who does not conform to society's constructs, as the culprit. As the investigation proceeds, more letters are sent, and the victim count increases, grabbing the entire country's attention.
This film is based on a true story and is hilarious. It is a period piece set in 1920 in a small town in England. The film gets to the point, full of foul language and insults. The casting may not be historically accurate, but it is well done and enjoyable. This is an excellent watch for a date night or to see something less mainstream Hollywood.
Crew (2024)
Slow and Predictable
An airline is struggling financially, and its chairman reassures his staff to have faith. As the employees work without being paid and serve customers, three flight attendants reach their breaking point. They decide to take matters into their own hands and enter the world of international smuggling.
This movie is supposed to be a buddy heist comedy, but it falls short of that. The film has comedy, but it also has an equal amount of drama and emotion. The movie is long, slow, and predictable. Many of the songs are remixes of old Bollywood songs, which can be good or bad depending on the viewer. The movie is a decent stream and can be watched with divided attention.
Problemista (2023)
Immigration and Achieving Goals
After losing his job, Alejandro must find a new employer to sponsor his visa. At the same time, he awaits his dream job, designing toys. With limited options, he freelances for a woman who is difficult with everyone and is trying to sell her frozen husband's paintings to fund his continued cryogenesis. Alejandro is willing to do anything to achieve his dream, even working for a "Karen."
This film has different themes, depending on which character you focus on. There are many cringy and frustrating parts, but the overall experience is satisfying. The film takes a unique approach to the complicated immigration system in America. The film also touches on the concept of being difficult or a "Karen," which is intriguing. This is an interesting watch if you are looking for something unique that touches on societal topics.
Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024)
Entertaining, but it isn't like the classics
With the territory dispute settled between Godzilla and Kong, Monarch sets out to monitor Godzilla on the surface and explore Hollow Earth with Kong. As Kong searches for remnants of his species, something has Godzilla in a frenzy on the surface. What they discover in Hollow Earth teaches them more about the history of the Titans and requires Kong and Godzilla to team up to save the world.
This franchise has drifted away from the original premise of King Kong and Godzilla but has managed to create something unique and entertaining. The story is simple, with loads of classic characters and some epic battles. The monsters have slowly developed human characteristics and mannerisms, which can be good or bad, depending on the person. Overall, the movie is easy to watch, family-friendly for older children, and has components of the classics, which might satisfy long-time fans.
Ricky Stanicky (2024)
Raunchy trio buddy comedy
Three childhood friends created an imaginary friend in their youth to blame all their mishaps and mischief on. As adults, they still use Ricky Stanicky as a scapegoat to get away from their adult lives and hang out. Their lie is on the verge of being divulged when they hire an actor to pose as Ricky and convince their families he exists. Their plan works well until the actor decides to become Ricky.
This is an easy-to-watch, raunchy buddy comedy. The movie gets straight to the point and does not give the characters much backstory. There are a decent amount of laughs throughout. This is an excellent low-thought comedy to stream with a couple of friends.
Love Lies Bleeding (2024)
Sex, weightlifting, and violence
Lou manages a quiet town gym while avoiding her past and her father. Things are dull and routine until a stranger joins the gym, Jackie. Lou and Jackie hit it off, and it's all sex, working out, and getting Jackie ready for the national bodybuilding competition. Everything goes splendidly until Jackie goes off the rails and does something that thrusts Lou back into her dark, mysterious past and her father's life.
This is another A24 film that will leave you wondering what you just watched. The movie is intriguing, has lots of sex, and is full of WTF moments. The movie gets right to the point. This could be it if you want something different or are an A24 fan. Otherwise, you can skip it.
Arthur the King (2024)
1 part adventure, 1 part animal
After an embarrassing loss in 2015, Michael formed a team to compete in the 2018 World Championship Adventure Race to redeem himself with a win. With limited funding and only their determination and grit, the team sets out to do the impossible. On their way to the finish line, they befriend a stray dog who joins them for the rest of the race and struggles with his own survival.
Based on a true story, this movie can be broken into two parts, the first being an adventure film with a team racing across the beautiful country of the Dominican Republic and the second being about the bond between man and dog. Both parts have the same underlying theme, anything is possible with hard work and determination. The movie is exciting, emotional, and captivating. The runtime is appropriate for covering the story of Michael and Arthur, but some parts are slow. This is a great family watch, and for anyone who loves the outdoors, racing, or dogs, catch it in theaters or stream it when available.
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024)
Flashback, but predictable
The Spenglers have relocated to the original Ghostbusters firehouse and taken up the call. As they go around New York catching ghosts, the original Ghostbusters still do things related to ghosts. When Ray acquires an ancient artifact, things start to get spooky. The Ghostbusters must save New York City and the world from another ghost-caused apocalypse.
This sequel to the reboot is an excellent walk down memory lane. It references the original movies, toys, theme song, and cartoon, and has many of the original cast returning, but that is the best part of it. The story is drawn out, predictable, and boring in some parts. If you are a diehard fan, this movie is worth a stream; otherwise, it could be skipped.
Re la gun tang (2024)
Great movie about self discovery
Le Ying is a quiet, soft-spoken, and withdrawn woman who spends her life on her parents' couch. After getting into a fight with her sister, she decides to make a change and sets out on her own. Done being taken advantage of, she decides to do something for herself. She dedicates herself to training and winning a boxing match.
This is an unexpectedly great film. It starts emotionally and is slow but takes an exciting twist. The story is terrific and shows that it is okay to put yourself first. Some comedy is peppered throughout the movie, keeping it light. The subtitles are fast, but the dialogue can be picked up from the body language and context clues. The film's director is also the lead and did a fantastic job creating this film. I highly recommend watching this film if you can find it on a streaming service.
Cabrini (2024)
Focused on her work and not religion
Mother Cabrini dreams of building a network of orphanages worldwide, and she is determined. The church invites her to Rome to deny her in person, but her persistence gets her a meeting with the Pope and approval to start her mission. As the leader of the first female-led mission, Cabrini sets off to New York to help the Italian immigrants. Her mission was to get the orphanage up and running, but she changed the world.
This is a biopic about the first United States Saint, Mother Cabrini. The story is more about the bureaucracy, politics, and prejudice she overcame to achieve her goals and less about religion and the church. The story is inspiring, heart-wrenching, and applicable today. The film is long and slow but very satisfying to watch. I highly recommend watching this film either in theaters or when available to stream, regardless of your faith or religion.
Knox Goes Away (2023)
A different kind of hitman movie
A hitman who has a spotless record faces a challenge when he is suddenly diagnosed with an aggressive form of dementia. With his last job going sideways, he makes plans to retire. While putting all the pieces in place, his estranged son shows up at his doorstep, covered in blood. Now John Knox is racing against the clock to do one last job, save his son.
This is not a typical hitman movie with a high body count. It is more about setting the stage and creating a mystery. Unfortunately, the mystery is predictable but still entertaining. The portrayal of the progression of dementia adds a unique layer to the story. This is an easy-to-watch hitman mystery that can be streamed.
One Life (2023)
One person can make a difference
Nicolas Winton did the impossible, despite what others said. During the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia, he and a group of others managed to get about 669 children out and placed them in foster care in the United Kingdom. He spent most of his life in anonymity until he made an effort to ensure the work he and others did was not lost to history but used as a lesson.
This is the incredible true story of a man who proves that anything is possible if you are willing to work hard. This reenactment of Nicolas Winton's life is inspirational, especially at a time when the world seems so divided. The movie is short, but the story is told slowly, which makes it feel long. Even though the story is predictable, it is shared in an emotional and uplifting way. This is worth watching if you need hope, inspiration, and an emotional release.
Dune: Part Two (2024)
Solid sequel, but still need some explaining
Paul and his mother have managed to earn the protection of the desert people. Some believe Paul to be the prophecy's messiah, while others do not trust him. Paul must earn their trust and become one of them to exact his revenge. He learns the way of the desert, amasses a following, develops his abilities, and prepares to do what is necessary.
This sequel picks up where the first movie leaves off and is full of mysticism, political drama, and war. The story unfolds a bit more, shedding light on some aspects of the first movie. Unfortunately, some elements of the film are still not completely clear. The visual effects and sound make this film worth watching on a premium screen. The movie has a long runtime but gets to the point and keeps moving. This is a must-see movie if you are a fan of the original, the novel, or sci-fi.
Bob Marley: One Love (2024)
A Brief Summary of the Legend
After a failed assassination attempt on himself and his wife, Bob Marley leaves Jamaica. He settles in London to work on his next album. As the political and civil unrest continues in Jamaica, Bob struggles with his own turmoil and the creation of his album. After the album's release and on tour, he becomes an international phenomenon.
This biopic is only part of the life of Bob Marley. It focuses on the later years of his life and what led to his international fame and becoming a legend. The film briefly touches on his youth and her personal life. The telling of how the music was created is fantastic. The film is excellent for learning more about Bob Marley, but not overwhelmed with all his history.
Poor Things (2023)
A Whimsical Tale of Self Discovery
In a whimsical world, a Frankenstein-style doctor performs an experimental surgery and creates Bella, a woman who possesses a child's brain. Bella starts as a child and slowly learns and develops until her curiosity takes her out into the world. As she adventures through the world, she learns about society, humanity, and the human experience.
The film adaptation of the novel of the same name. This film is outstanding. The story examines how a human develops and how external forces and society shape a person. The visuals are captivating and unique, which add to the story. The movie is long and heavy with sex and nudity, but these elements aid in telling the story. The acting by all involved is outstanding. This excellent film should be watched in theaters or streamed when available.
Madame Web (2024)
Streamable at best
Orphaned at childbirth, Cassandra Webb grew up to be a socially awkward adult unable to connect with her peers. After a near-death experience at work, Cassey starts to experience visions. When she experiences a vision involving the murder of three teenage girls, she is tangled in a web long in the making.
This movie is the latest installment in the Sony Spider-Verse. The movie is more of a mystery than a superhero movie. It is light on action, superpowers, and costumes. The story does a decent job of introducing the character and referencing others. The movie does not refer to other major Marvel movies. Fans of the characters might get frustrated with the way the story unfolds. This is a decent enough movie to stream.
Drive-Away Dolls (2024)
What's in the Briefcase
It's almost the year 2000, and a free-spirited, promiscuous lesbian and her conservative, traditional friend decide to take a road trip to Tallahassee to rediscover themselves. Little do they know, the drive-away car they were given is involved in something nefarious.
This coming-of-age buddy road trip turns into a homicide romantic comedy by the end. The movie is heavy on sex, nudity, and dirty jokes. Some parts come out of the blue and need to be clarified. Fortunately, the movie is short and gets to the point quickly. The film boasts an all-star cast. This movie might not be for everyone, but it could be worth streaming for something different.