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Reviews
The Munsters (2022)
A Family Friendly, Faithful Adaptation
I have to give Rob Zombie and the cast of his Munsters incarnation props for showing a reverence to the quirky TV series I watched over and over years ago. It's silly, flashy, frequently funny and surprisingly family friendly. It sure ain't Shakespeare, but I for one have no desire for a "dark" update like those that destroy so many other family classics. I enjoyed looking for the nods to the classic series (which are plentiful) and the modern touches such as the bold colors and elaborate sets. I won't get into specifics because I want my review to be spoiler free.
Give the movie a chance and watch it yourself.
Pop some popcorn, sit back and enjoy.
Get Smart, Again! (1989)
A Genuinely Funny Sequel
I was only a casual viewer of the original series after it went into syndication. However, this movie made me laugh non-stop from beginning to end. The cast, script and visual gags were pitch perfect.
Hunter (1984)
Solid, Entertaining Action Crime Drama.
The chemistry between Fred Dryer and Stephanie Kramer made the series. Charles Hallahan was the best cast addition in later seasons. Although the series became a stronger procedural as the seasons went on, I preferred the earlier episodes where Hunter and McCall worked more closely together and we saw more of their relationship off duty. I also prefer the earlier tone, when they lived up to their tough reputations. Less realistic as a police drama, but more entertaining for my taste. Rick Hunter became dryer (no pun intended) as the series progressed, losing some edge. I missed the presence of Kramer when she moved on, but Dryer carried the show well mostly on his own. I don't think the series was truly tired at the end, but that the loss of Kramer cost it viewers. It was a series that wouldn't die, though, with three movies following it's cancellation and an order for a series reboot in 2003 with Dryer and Kramer back together. NBC dropped the ball royally on the reboot, not promoting it sufficiently and cancelling it after just a few episodes. No respect for a series that had so much staying power. I can't help myself, I have to say it: Hunter "works for me!".
The Untold Story (2019)
Heartwarming and Down to Earth
While watching this film I wondered if some of the scenes felt familiar to star Barry VanDyke, being an older actor himself who is still very recognizable. Being handsome and subtly charming, I'm surprised he hasn't made more films with a romantic story at heart. I love the gentleness and patience of his character, whose life is far from perfect. He doesn't see himself as superior to those around him, and adapts easily to his new, much more humble lifestyle. I also admire his willingness to read a young writer/director's unsolicited script, which he becomes passionate about starring in, finding out later that the character was written exactly with him in mind. Of course, there are bumps in the road, and the film would never have been made without the dedication of it's intended star. There's a nice symbiosis between the veteran actor and untested writer/director giving one another a hand up in their careers. Nia Peeples and her character are icing on the cake in this film. Her performance is genuine, and I fell for her lovely character myself. As for Barry Van Dyke, this is the best performance I've seen him give. I've always enjoyed his easygoing co-starring roles with his legendary dad, but this is his chance to own the screen, which he does with quiet sincerity. Although the ending is a little too neatly wrapped up, and feels rushed compared to the rest of the film, I love happy endings. "The Untold Story" is comfort food for the soul, and I'm glad this story WAS told.