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Reviews
Skyline (2010)
Should have been straight-to-DVD. Nowhere near as epic as the trailers!
It was actually an arduous endeavor to watch this whole movie.
Being an avid science fiction fan, it doesn't take much for me to be entertained by an alien invasion, but this movie actually succeeded in making me thoroughly regretful for paying to watch it, and here's why. The plot is incredibly transparent, you can predict the end right from the beginning. The characters are totally one dimensional, and the movie does not take the time to develop any of them at all. There is no chemistry between the main characters, and the romances are totally contrived. There was not a single likable character in this movie, due partly to the horrible scripting topped off by weak, over-the-top acting. Some of the lines were so cheesy, it actually made me cringe. This movie used every cliché, and every shameless tactic to hide its total lack of substance - from product placement, to expensive cars, attractive women; none of which successfully mask its shortcomings. Starting in the middle of the story, and rewinding to recount events is so overly used, and is a ridiculous attempt to feign substance in this setting.
I notice many reviews touting this as being 'original'...to those, I say watch War of the Worlds, because the concepts and story are almost identical. And I'm sorry, but bio-mechanical aliens have been around in film for a LONG time. There's not much more I can say without spoiling it for the unfortunate people who get pulled into watching this from the misleadingly attractive trailers, but trust me, there's nothing new here folks.
The rating is currently 4.6, but that's an overstatement. This movie belongs in the bottom 100 in my opinion. If you really must see this movie, don't pay premium evening show prices, because I guarantee you will regret it.
Banned! In America (1998)
Not for the feint-hearted
'Banned! In America' is a collection of footage showing the most gruesome, darkest side of humanity. From public executions, to suicides, to our daily slaughtering of animals, the ultimate goal of this video is to show the truly grotesque reality that people face everyday, which is almost entirely hidden from the Western world. The music is mostly unchanging, and the commentary is quite monotone, but it's the only way to do this sort of viewing justice. To have catchy music and quirky commentary would simply be offensive to the victims portrayed in the film.
I rated this video 10 not because I enjoy seeing gore (in fact it was very difficult to get through the whole thing, I had to take frequent breaks) but because I commend the creators for their exceptional research of footage which has been intentionally buried over time. Their goal was admirable - these are real people, and we all should be aware of their plight.
I stress; NOT for the feint-hearted.
Rogues Gallery (2010)
The best film that never made it to theatres
This star-studded satirical action-comedy left my friends and I laughing the whole way through.
I can see why so many people would not enjoy this film, as not everyone is able to understand/appreciate this sort of dry humour. For anyone who works/has worked in a typical office setting, and enjoyed Hot Tub Time Machine, will surely appreciate this movie.
With so many stars present, it's almost impossible to make them all shine equally bright. The director made effective use of Robert Corddry, as many of the funniest moments centre around him. Better use could have been made with Zach Galifianakis, as he is immensely funny and only gets a short amount of screen time. Also, Bob Odenkirk has proved his ability in Breaking Bad and I would have like to see more of him in this film. However, the director makes a good job of actually making you care about the characters.
Much of the comedy revolves around every-day office routines. Some of the funniest moments that spring to mind are the 'corporate meeting' scene, as well as the 'water-cooler' scene, both situations that my fellow working man surely knows much about.
The plot kept me totally engaged, and the acting was very believable. With such a strong screenplay, amazing cast, and high production values, the only thing I could think of that prevented this movie from hitting the theaters is the political commentary throughout the film. I would recommend any movie-goer who wants a good laugh at home to pick up this film. So long as you don't watch it with a negative disposition after reading all the overly-spiteful comments, I assure you you will not be disappointed!