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Reviews
Don't Hang Up (2016)
Don't be a rip off.
Don't hang up is a fairly derivative by the numbers revenge slasher. You have the obnoxious teen frats (Sulkin , Clayton) who prank people who get there just desserts. It borrows heavily from the much better Scream and also Saw , with dashes of Halloween, Unfriended etc. It's fairly neat and does kind of keep you interested- just. The final reveal is ok but nothing special. The film does avoid being non sensical which is perhaps its best feature. The victims are unlikeable, and the girls character ( Dayne) isn't fleshed out so it was hard to root for them - or the villain. Probably only ok for one watch.
Magic in the Moonlight (2014)
Charming enough.
Magic in the moonlight centres on an illusionist ( Firth) who debunks fraudulent psychics which brings him to Emma Stone. He is slowly convinced and starts falling for her. This has plenty of charm and Firth delivers entertaining diatribe about logic and ignorant people which is enjoyable for the most part. The second half is not as strong and ends in a nice romantic way. There are some very typical Woody Allen themes here- chance, reality, truth but they are not examined here as well as say he's much better "Match Point" , 2005) but is never the less sweet enough. Also great cinematography. Strong support actors help the cause Enjoyable enough.
Chained (2012)
It's not "Room"
Unchained is a bleak telling of a serial killer and his relationship with his manservant who was kidnapped as a boy. Where it falls down is it's attempt to show the killer s ( D'Oniforo) interest in making the captor a " man" and to follow in his footsteps. Although this idea is chilling it's not fleshed out properly and I didn't really buy it. I also felt there were plotholes such as no real escape attempts/ resistance until the end and no police visits etc. There is a surprise ending but not really a twist that ties up the film and the killers motives. The acting by the two main leads is fair. Gritty enough to score a pass mark.
Malicious (1995)
Malicious attraction.
Malicious is basically a teen rip off of the far superior Fatal Attraction so the story here doesn't need to be explained. The main problem with this ( besides the rip off) is that some of the scenes and lines are complete shot for shot " exact" copies. The other problem is the support acts Mcgaw , Lassez are pretty much inept actors who don't inspire any interest. I found it hard to buy Ringwalds ( who plays the stalker) interest in Mcgaw as he was charmless. The girlfriend is also uninteresting. The main redeeming feature was the casting of Ringwald as the psycho. Although going against cast-type she's actually pretty good ( and sexy). Unfortunately the script is a bit silly ( especially the second half ) and has big plot holes and credibility issues. Nevertheless Ringwald kind of holds your. Interest as the creepy stalker come psycho. Watchable- just.
Blood Work (2002)
Good work - for the most part.
Bloodwork for about 85% of the running time is an absorbing mystery thriller. Eastwood is much more understated as a retired detective than his previous outings and this actually works well. In fact the movie is quite minimalistic and very procedural. There is not much violence or action This gives it quite an authentic feel without the Hollywood shine. Although there are plenty of recognisable actors inc Huston and Daniels. This slow burn is very enjoyable and enough tension to keep you interested until the last 20 mins. There is a surprise reveal but unfortunately this just doesn't work. The reason behind the killings is not credible and the finale is just silly. This detracts considerably from what is otherwise a strong beat thriller. Daniels is no villain.
Ex Machina (2014)
Science "non- fiction".
Ex Machina is sci fi in its most steepest reality. At the heart of the story is the relationship between a tech genius who plays God ( Isaacs) , the hot shot young apprentice (Gleeson) and the main AI subject (Vikander). This is all set in Isaacs isolated robotics retreat. The cat and mouse game between the three is suspenseful with questions of intimacy, humanity, and new order explored intelligently. There are a few twists and turns featuring some body horror and disturbing outcomes- which may or maybe not be a surprise to the viewer. Either way they are shocking. There is a violent conclusion and then a final denouement suggesting that perhaps synthetic robots are already among us. A truly great science fiction masterpiece.
Death Proof (2007)
Proof that bad can be ok.
Deathproof is a very Tarantinoesque film about a crazed stunstsman ( Russell) who stalks women and kills then via his modified car. This film is light on story but it's all about the style here. There are numerous scenes with just witty banter and dialogue - but this works a treat. There is a nod and wink to the homage of grindhouse and Tarantino is clearly enjoying himself. The atmosphere created by the trashy settings and the sexy but strong women work really well here and make up for the lack of story. When it does get going your more interested in the characters than the plot. The story is weak and a bit ludicrous but is also mostly enjoyable. The first 45 mins I think is the strongest with Rose McGowan the standout and then later Rosario Dawson, but all the acting is fine. The revenge towards the end is a bit silly. Worth the watch.
El secreto de sus ojos (2009)
" A life full of nothing".
The Secret in their eyes is a political crime thriller with a romantic element. It spans 25 years back and forth about the unsolved resolution to a rape/ murder that happened in Argentina. Politics, obsession , love and justice are all examined here thoroughly and intelligently. A haunting score throughout is also noted. This thriller finishes with an extraordinary denouement, that you won't easily forget (which ties in well with some of the movies themes). All the acting here is first class from the 2 main leads but also the support acts. The subtitles don't detract at all from this superbly authentic film. Highly recommended.
The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
" I know it was you".
The Talented Mr Ripley focuses on a middle class loser with a talent for lying and forgery ( Damon) who looks up to the rich. By a chance encounter he is asked to bring back to America the wealthy son ( Law) of a tycoon ( Rebhorn) who resides in Italy with fiancé ( Paltrow). Damon proceeds to ingratiate his way into the young couples life pretending to share same interests etc. When Law gets sick of him there is a murder and Damon pretends to be the Law character- but to pull it off he needs to be devious, and must also kill off anyone who suspects. This film is an interesting look at obsession, duplicity and wealth - and these aspects are fleshed out well. There is also enough tension and suspense to keep you interested. Damon is an interesting choice as the lead. A minor criticism would be that in the first half there were no real signs that Damon was capable of what he eventually pulls off - I would have preferred perhaps a more darker, complex side to his character been exposed earlier. The cinematography is gorgeous but the film also has a Hollywood polish to it which I think slightly took away the authenticity and darkness to the film. The side characters are excellent with perhaps Hoffman and Paltrow taking the honours. A good music score adds to the tension and intricate plot. Worthwhile viewing.
Swimfan (2002)
Don't hold your breath.
Swimfan tells the story of hotshot swimmer ( Bradford) with a troubled past who has an affair with what turns out to be an obsessed psycho ( Christensen). Similar to dozens of teen thrillers the tension builds until the secret is exposed and the obsession escalates to a violent ending. There are a couple of twists and turns but for the most part it's derivative by the numbers. You also need to suspend belief and ignore some ludicrously unrealistic scenes. The main redeeming feature is the excellent performance of the psycho ( Christensen) who delivers, albeit a bit over the top. The rest of the cast are meh and are not really fleshed out enough to care. The second half feels a bit rushed but overall certainly watchable- especially for Christensen.
Glass (2019)
First name Mr. Last name ............
Glass is the third and final instalment of the Unbreakable trilogy. Most of the players from Split ( McEvoy, Taylor Joy) and Unbreakable ( Willis. Sam l Jackson, Treat Clarke ) are back. The three main characters who may or may not be real life superheroes are under psychological examination from lead psych Staple ( Poulson). There is enough suspense and tension with also some twists thrown in as well as done good action sequences. It is also assisted by Shymalan's sure hand as director who is working in his wheelhouse with this material. The middle section plods a bit and I feel like they are trying to cover too much with so many characters from previous. As such it feels a bit rushed and not fleshed out as much as the previous 2 films. Nevertheless it's done as well as you could hope and there is a satisfying final denouement. All the acting is excellent with perhaps Taylor Joy , McEvoy and Sam l Jackson being the pick. Good score throughout too. Worth a viewing. Look fast for M Night Shymalan in a cameo at the start.
Billionaire Boys Club (2018)
Botched Billionaires.
BBC tells the story of a group of already wealthy 20 ish young men who lure nerdy classmate who concocts a scam to get money off investors under the mentorship of Levinson ( Spacey). When it gets out of hand murder and the house of cards falls down. The main problem with the film is the machinations of how they get the money and profit is not fleshed out properly. Unlike say ( wall street or boiler room). As such you never really buy what's going on. The spoils of the wealth is displayed well and is fun to watch. It moves briskly and is rarely dull. Support roles in Roberts, Spacey probably take the acting honours. The ending where it falls apart and reflection is sought is done haphazardly and not convincing. Watchable but disappointing.
The Other Mother (2017)
Wannabe "Stepmother".
" The other mother" tells the tale of a recently divorced man's relationship with a new trophy wife and the secret she is hiding. A large part of the story is how the stepmother manipulates to have the husband and stepdaughter to herself and tries to break the bond between the real mother and daughter / husband. The main flaw with the film is the motive / secret behind the stepmother is not really fleshed out properly or examined. ( unlike the stepfather 1987) you actually don't even realise the motivations till quite late. On a positive- the first half delivers a fair amount of tension -and not knowing the stepmothers game makes it curious. Ultimately it falls short and there is a derivative ending. The acting is ok and for a b grade LMN type movie it's not the worst of its kind. The daughter ( Kennedy) is possibly the most promising performance.
A Man Called Otto (2022)
Hanks makes it worthwhile.
A man called Otto tells the tale of a grumpy older man ( Hanks) who is angry and bitter and takes it out on everyone around him. Amongst this he make numerous attempts at suicide. He has some new neighbours who bring out the best in him. Although Hanks is a wonderful actor I wasn't always convinced of his character a much as say Eastwood in Gran Torino. The film is lighter and has enough humour to not be totally downbeat. I don't think it quite pulled off the redemption/ inspiration as much as some other films but it's not bad. A good score throughout and of course Hanks Carry's this. A bittersweet ending which is sad and heartfelt. Worth a watch.
Indecent Proposal (1993)
Decent enough.
Indecent Proposal tells the tale of a broke couple ( Moore, Harrelson) who run into billionaire( Redford) in Vegas. He proposes a night with the wife for $1M. This interesting concept is handled well for the most part, especially the first half. It certainly gets you asking the question of what would you do? Which I suspect was the directors ( Lynne- fatal attraction 87') intention. There are some scenes which beg realism but overall is interesting enough. The score and mood is suitable and done well. I think Redford takes the acting honours here with Moore also good- and looking gorgeous. Harrelson is so so and Oliver Platt as the lawyer does not offer much. Definitely an interesting movie without being riveting. Worth at least one viewing.
Happily Never After (2022)
Never, Never
Happily Never After tells the story of a bride who " wins" a free wedding. Turns out the wedding planner has her own agenda. This film is virtually void of any suspense or tension. The acting is vanilla with no one remotely having any personality. It is also fairly predictable and completely unoriginal. I did sit till the end but at times considered turning the channel. The acting is bad and just add to the deplorable viewing. It just seems like everyone in this film is going through the motions without any intent. Even though this was a LMN film it was still very poor even by that standard. Do not bother with this drivel.
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (1988)
Caine, Martin make it work.
Dirty rotten scoundrels is a caper/ comedy about two con men. One is a older wiser more established ( Caine) and the other is a loud mouthed showy small timer ( Martin). These opposite personalities work a treat with beautiful backdrop of the wealthy riviera. The banter and one upmanship between the two is a delight to watch throughout. Also the scenes where Caine is teaching Martin is a delight. The second half is very good , but I perhaps preferred the first half slightly more. The support acts ( Headley and. Rodgers) also do their part. The many set pieces in this film are funny, clever and memorable. The dialogue is very witty and Caine and Martin pull this off with great aplomb. One of the best comedies that is very rewatchable even 35 years later. A must watch.
The Girlfriend Experience (2009)
Power of sexiness.
The girlfriend experience tells the story of escort ( Grey) who spends time with wealthy men for money. Sex is allowed but the men are more interested in companionship, intimacy and feeling important- which Grey provides. She is also involved in a "real " relationship but doesn't seem to treat him with any more importance than her clients. Soderbergh directs this like a semi doco - which works to a degree but the constant back drop of music is overdone. Some of the points the director is trying to make - about her job and also the men's needs are perhaps rammed down your throat but nevertheless is fleshed out and is interesting. I also thought the talk about politics and investing was also overblown. Overall- you definitely see the power of beauty and this is explored intelligently. The final scene depicts this very well. Worth a watch.
The Equalizer (2014)
" when you look at me what do you see?
The Equaliser tells the story of a man with exquisite killing and survival skills ( Washington) with a mysterious past. He uses this for good, helping a girl ( Grace- Moretz) who is caught up with the Russian mob. When members are killed by Washington the head calls on enforcer ( Csokas) to clean up the mess. This leads to an eventual showdown between the two. The cat and mouse game between them is what elevates this film considerably. Both men have their own philosophy and this is fleshed out thoroughly. Although you now how it's going to end Csokas is a formidable villain and very much matches Washington ( which is saying something). The brilliant restaurant scene is reminiscent of Deniro/ Pacino in Heat. Although the graphic kills require some suspension of belief, It is fresh ( being the first instalment) and quite enjoyable. The support actors are also good - Grace-moretz, Harbour, Leo and Pullman , but they won't make you forget Csokas and Washington. Recommended viewing.
Friday Night Lights (2004)
Friday night Life.
Friday night lights tells the story of a football team and it's coach ( Bb Thornton) trying to make the playoffs in Texas. It demonstrates the community ( and players) who regard football as a religion and how this effects the coach and team. Although I think this could have been handled more subtly. Also some of the side stories of some of the players were also rammed down your throat and at times over the top. On the positive, it is generally quite realistic and intense, both on the field and off. An above average sports film that is worth the watch. Strong performances all round by the actors , in particular Bb Thornton.
The Equalizer 3 (2023)
Equally poor.
As a fan of the trilogy, this was the weakest instalment. The main issue was the lack of depth to the characters ( except for perhaps the fbi agent). The first Equalizer presented a formidable villain with depth. No such luck here. There are some stand in bad guys but they are not fleshed out. There are some good kill scenes that are typical of the trilogy which keep you interested. You expect the need to suspend belief but this at the high end of this to the point where it is silly - in particular the final kills which seem to be almost too easy. A nice touch at the end where there is a connection to a former character in the series. A disappointing conclusion to the series.
Detachment (2011)
Detached film.
Adrien Brody plays a lonely substitute teacher who has a month stint at a tough school where students are violent and don't care. The film plays out like a snapshot of events without too much coherency. It shows many teachers frustrated and just trying to survive. Brody's character is meant to represent a beacon of light for the students and that he gets through to them. I didn't quite buy this transition- if no other reason it wasn't fleshed out that well. The main story line is his caring of a young prostitute outside school. It also shows his concern over his ailing grandfather and of another student who seems to have feelings for him. I thought the film tried to cover too much ground including the politics of the school. The other teachers are portrayed by known actors and most have their own backstory but none are explored fully. There are also snippets of the director trying to be arty in sone scenes which didn't work. The gloomy scenes are forced on the viewer at every turn. Brody is exceptional as always and there is a genuine attempt at some heartfelt story threads. Overall a bit disappointing but not terrible.
Fatal Attraction (1987)
" I'll tell your wife......."
Fatal Attraction tells the story of an affair that goes wrong once the married man Dan (Douglas) wants out but the girl Alex ( Close) won't accept that. As time goes in we learn that Alex is somewhat unhinged in her behaviour. This is a taut thriller for the most part and builds tension slowly. It also explores the morality of both people intelligently, and presents a cautionary tale for men. The final twenty minutes does reduce to a more formulaic Hollywood ending but is still scary. There has been countless attempts at this type of film since 1987 but this is perhaps the best. There are some iconic moments ( bunny boiler and steamed mirror) scenes. The acting is first rate with Close as the psycho taking the honours - although Archer was also nominated as support actress.
The Kissing Booth (2018)
Kiss me Noah.
The kissing booth is kind of a b grade extended version of a cheap teen sitcom episode. It's not to be taken seriously. The first half of this is actually very good. The laugh ratio is high - mainly because it doesn't try to be funny every second. Also the set up - the girl ( king) the best male friend and his older brother ( who's a player but treats the girl like a younger sister ) works a treat with many funny and awkward moments. The second half - where a romance blossoms and the film tries to be more serious and heartfelt didn't really work for me that well, and also the humour dried up. It must be said- there are a few cringe moments and some people may not like some of the sexy humour and possibly poor messaging. Overall- it was better than I thought and fairly enjoyable.
The Zone of Interest (2023)
Zone of some interest.
The zone of interest gives a snap shot of the life of a big shot camp director Hoss of Auschwitz. He lives next door with wife ( Huller) and children. The point is to show a normal, adjusted family living next to atrocity. Although it is clear what is happening it didn't come across as haunting as I thought. There were certainly enough hints of what was going on. Hoss is eventually transferred but the wife and children stay in the lush house. Huller is great as a woman who thrives in her environment and is proud to call herself the "queen of Auschwitz". The middle section of this film gets bogged down and some attempts at artistic scenes don't really work. I also struggled to distinguish between the children of the two families. You don't see the victims or the camp itself but do see a lot of the Nazi commanders attend meetings and socials. These scenes are done well, and shows that it's just a job to them. Also the almost final scenes depicting the camp in todays time is quite chilling. There is an abrupt ending which is satisfactory but not enthralling.