spiritxzx Reviews

Mortal Kombat (2021)

Rated an 8 because it deserves better than 6.2

[8/10 · 15 May 2021]

It is definitely a solid 7, for what it is. It is fun, nostalgia without being overbearing, and a lot of the stunts are really impressively done. The CGI isn't bad - the special effects for all of Sub-zero's powers are really good actually.

I played MK1, MK2, and a bit of MK3 a lot as a kid and this movie keeps that vision in mind. A lot of other reviewers are complaining there isn't a tournament. Though I think it is obvious they are trying for a trilogy of sorts.

Fun movie.

First Strike (1996)

Chan's 007 homage is a lot more fun than the haters will have you think

[8/10 · 23 January 2021]

I hadn't seen it before so I put this on for some background noise and couldn't stop watching. The film makes no secret about being a Bond spoof. Chan even mentions it himself in the dialogue. But it really is a fun movie with some good laughs and comedy that are actually interwoven into the plot. The plot gets a lot of crap from other reviewers, but for an 80s/90s style martial arts film the script actually has more cohesion than you might expect.

There are classic Bond-style double-, maybe even triple-crosses that are a sufficient foundation for some of the best Jackie Chan style movie martial arts of the genre. He fights marine life! He defends himself against an Australian China Town's best with a ladder! He kicks in the bad guys' faces on stilts!

If you aren't having fun by the 20 min mark, this film and genre probably aren't for you. But who can resist a martial arts legend snowmobiling wearing a polar bear hat?

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)

In retrospect, this film likely will be only second to Empire Strikes Back

[9/10 · 26 October 2020]

If you were underwhelmed with Disney's other attempts at Star Wars, you must still try this film as well as the Mandalorian.

As someone that read dozens of EU books and fell asleep to the OT many nights when I needed comfort after a hard day, trust me. This was done correctly.

I tear up every time I see it. I can't help it. The themes of doing what is right no matter the cost just hits me in the right spot.

It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia: The Gang Goes to the Jersey Shore (2011) Season 7, Episode 2

Rum haaaaaam. Rum haaaaammm.

[9/10 · 23 July 2020]

I'm sorry rum ham. IM SORRY. RUM HAM.. AHHHHH... rum hammm...

It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia: The Nightman Cometh (2008) Season 4, Episode 13

Likely in the top 5 of best television episodes for the 2000s

[10/10 · 18 July 2020]

Any list ranking the best television of 2000-2010 will absolutely have this episode, and I believe it is top 5 worthy.

It works as a standalone, it is truly hilarious, has great rewatchability, ties into the series as a whole, catchy music, amazing physical comedy that transcends language. DeVito at his best. Nah every character is at their best in this.

The directing is amazing. Same director who did Charlie Work apparently, which is the second best episode of the whole series IMO. Combined with the audio production (reverb-y piano and dynamic dialogue) really feels like you are at an elementary school theater production which just makes the writing contrast in ways that are groundbreakingly hilarious. And the crowd reactions!

The Troll Toll and Dayman songs have forever entered the cultural zeitgeist. I have been finding myself humming both songs for 12 years now. For a TV episode that is impressive stuff.

Drunk History: Are You Afraid of the Drunk? (2019) Season 6, Episode 1

Rich Fulcher demonstrates why he is alt-comedy royalty

[10/10 · 9 July 2020]

I have consumed every piece of Mighty Boosh material to us across the pond that exists, and always laugh at Rich Fulcher's delivery no matter how many times I see it. And even though he is drunk (allegedly, probably, possibly?) he is in perfect form in the sixth season premiere of Drunk History which is definitely major Hit or Miss.

This is a *huge* Hit. It is definitely one of the most entertaining and engaging pieces of television I have personally ever seen. Fulcher's narration will have you rolling. But! Evan Rachel Wood's performance as Mary Shelley, is an effing masterpiece. She does so much more than just bring physical comedy to the narration. She truly embodies the excitement and enthusiasm as Mary Shelley as told by Rich Fulcher. Wood provides sooooo much perfect subtext. I mean, Mary Shelley essentially invented modern science fiction.

SciFi has been generally considered a "no-go" for anyone wanting to be taken seriously. But Mary Shelley created an amazing story with intriguing notions inspired by the science of the time coupled with philosophical questions about science, medicine, identity, and society. Mary Shelley truly is the BOSS.

Rich Fulcher does her justice in the telling, and Evan Rachel Wood does her justice in the portrayal. The cameos from Elijah Wood, Will Ferrell, and Seth Rogen are just icing.

This is a solid episode for introducing someone to this series if they feel like the early days are a rough start. I personally enjoy the experimentation and enjoy the exposure of alt comedians, so i have no general qualms with the show. But i can understand why some might need a little bit of oomph to make them get it. This should work.