Escapist-2802 Reviews

No Hard Feelings (2023)

A Balanced Act in a Sea of RomComs

[7/10 · 27 August 2023]

"No Hard Feelings" is balancing on a tightrope between the clichéd and the unexpected. Going in, you might expect just another run-of-the-mill RomCom. But this film delivers more than it promises.

Kudos to the cast, especially J. Law and Andrew Feldman, whose chemistry transforms what could've been another cookie-cutter movie into something special. At its high points, "No Hard Feelings" almost feels like an indie gem, sprinkled with a refreshing blend of genuine emotion and sharp wit. It avoids the pitfalls of forced comedy and artificial emotion, giving us a hearty 100-minute summer watch.

The supporting characters aren't just cardboard cut-outs either. Matthew Broderick turns in a cheeky performance, paying homage to his own iconic roles, without overshadowing the film's fresh talent. What could've been a predictable, trope-filled comedy takes a turn, offering us a ride with layers and heart.

Will it stand the test of time? In a genre flooded with titles, it's hard to say. But its unique fingerprint gives it a fighting chance to become a classic-or at least a treasured find for those who discover it.

"No Hard Feelings" is more than your standard RomCom fare; it's an enjoyable romp that flirts with indie film vibes. It's like stumbling upon an unexpected hit game when you thought you'd seen it all. Not to be missed.

Ahsoka: Part One: Master and Apprentice (2023) Season 1, Episode 1

An Absolute Game-Changer! Dave Filoni, You've Done It Again!

[9/10 · 27 August 2023]

Dave Filoni, the man, the myth, the legend, is out here doing the Force's work. Honestly, if you're a Star Wars fan, you've got to watch this - it's Filoni at his absolute finest!

Ahsoka is the Star Wars saga we've been waiting for. In just the first episode, it managed to reignite that old Star Wars magic while carving out its own epic narrative. Filoni, you're a Star Wars wizard, man. Keep it up, and may the Force be with you!

The pacing is immaculate. You get everything you need but it never, ever feels like a drag. Plus, Easter eggs for the fans.

The CGI is clean, the sets are popping, and the choreography in those lightsaber duels? My God. The score hits all the right emotional beats and complements the visual storytelling superbly.

Rosario Dawson is Ahsoka Tano, period. She embodies the role so well you'd think she's been training in some Jedi Temple. And the rest of the cast? Hats off, seriously. Sabine, Hera, everyone - they've leapt off the animated series and into live-action so smoothly, it's like they've always been there.

Foundation: The Emperor's Peace (2021) Season 1, Episode 1

Off to a Good Start!

[9/10 · 27 August 2023]

Man, as a big Asimov fan, I was nervous about this one. But I've gotta say, it's pretty solid. The opening feels true to the books but updates things for today's audience. Think Star Wars meets Dune, but with a unique twist.

Casting is on point. Gaal Dornick and Dr. Seldon? Nailed it. The emperor? Exactly the kind of guy you'd love to hate. The sets and visuals are insane, like seriously movie-quality stuff. If you're into 4K, this show is a feast for the eyes.

Now, for the book fans who are mad it's not a carbon copy-come on. TV and books are different, and this is good TV. Story's engaging, and it's setting up for something big. Some of the side characters could be better, but hey, it's just the start.

Bottom line? If the first episode is anything to go by, we're in for a treat. Can't wait for Episode 2!

Yojimbo (1961)

Brilliant and Influential Film

[10/10 · 11 April 2023]

Akira Kurosawa's classic samurai film is a masterwork and a major cultural touchstone. Toshiro Mifune appears as a charismatic ronin who arrives in a village controlled by rival criminal groups and schemes to turn the tables on them. The film's funny language, interesting characters, and breathtaking action sequences create a seamless blend of comedy and cruelty. Tatsuya Nakadai, as Mifune's armed adversary, gives an excellent performance as well. Many additional movies have been influenced by Yojimbo, including Sergio Leone's A Fistful of Dollars. One of Kurosawa's finest works, and among the greatest movies of all time. Fans of samurai films, as well as those who appreciate a well-told, exciting tale, won't want to miss this.

The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)

A Masterpiece of War Cinema

[10/10 · 11 April 2023]

The pinnacle of epic war films, featuring breath-taking images of the jungle and the river, superb acting by a stellar cast, and an engrossing plot that keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats. The film explores the complex themes of duty, honour, pride, and insanity that arise from the clash of cultures and ideologies between the British POWs and their Japanese captors. The film focuses on the character of British colonel Nicholson (Alec Guinness), who becomes fixated on building the bridge as a badge of his professionalism and a testament to his men's skills, even at the cost of aiding the enemy's war effort. In contrast, the character of American Shears (William Holden) seeks to flee his fate as a soldier and escape from the hellish camp, only to be reluctantly recruited for a daring commando mission to destroy the bridge. The film also features a memorable and distinctive score by Malcolm Arnold, which incorporates a humorous and defiant rendition of the "Colonel Bogey March" whistled among the characters as a sign of their spirit and resilience.

Dirty Harry (1971)

A Thrilling and Controversial Classic That Defined the Action Genre

[9/10 · 11 April 2023]

An old-school thriller that made a star out of Clint Eastwood as the no-nonsense police officer Harry Callahan. The film follows Harry as he pursues the Scorpio Killer, a cruel serial killer who terrorises San Francisco yet remains elusive throughout. Raising moral and ethical problems regarding justice and vigilantism, the film does not shy away from exposing the violence and brutality of both the criminals and the police enforcement. The bank robbery gunfight and Harry's famed "Do you feel lucky?" phrase are two of the film's most iconic scenes and phrases. As one of the finest instances of its type, Dirty Harry has served as an inspiration for countless other action movies. Fans of Clint Eastwood and Don Siegel, as well as those who appreciate thrilling and intriguing stories, should not miss this.

A Fistful of Dollars (1964)

A Classic Spaghetti Western that Made Clint Eastwood a Star

[9/10 · 10 April 2023]

The film is a prime example of the low-budget, stylised violence, cynical protagonists, and melancholy score typical of spaghetti westerns. Eastwood's portrayal of a cool, collected, and menacing antihero in the film contributed to his rise to international fame.

In my opinion, the film deserves a score of nine out of ten since it is a groundbreaking and iconic piece of filmmaking that successfully blends action, suspense, comedy, and drama. The film's narrative is straightforward but still manages to surprise and delight fans. The film's distinct visual aesthetic vividly and realistically depicts life on the harsh and lawless frontier. The film's ambiance and intensity are greatly enhanced by Ennio Morricone's excellent soundtrack.

Any fan of the western, action, or adventure genres are going to enjoy watching this film. It's a cinematic classic that set the way for a new generation of filmmakers and actors. You're going to be on the edge of your seat throughout this thrilling and humorous film. A Fistful of Dollars is a classic that should be remembered for years to come.

Inherent Vice (2014)

Visually Stunning and Complex Film

[6/10 · 11 January 2023]

One of the most striking things about Inherent Vice is its visual style, which perfectly captures the gritty, neon-lit atmosphere of Los Angeles in the 1970s. As soon as the movie starts, you are taken back in time, and the colours and textures on the screen are hard to look away from. The great ensemble cast, led by Joaquin Phoenix, gives strong performances and creates a sense of mystery and intrigue that makes it hard to take your eyes off the screen.

The plot of the movie is complicated and often hard to follow, but that's part of what makes it so interesting. It's a story that requires close attention and critical thinking, but it's well worth the effort. The many turns and twists in the movie will keep you guessing right up until the end.

The soundtrack is one of the best parts of the movie because it makes you feel like you've taken a "time trip" back to the 1970s. Its use of classic rock, funk, and psychedelic music gives the story more depth and pulls the viewer into the film's world.

The movie does have some flaws, though. At times, the movie moves slowly, and there are times when it seems like it's going in no particular direction. Some people may also be turned off by the film's complex and sometimes hard to follow plot, which can make it hard to get into the story.

Overall, Inherent Vice is a beautiful and complicated movie that will make people think for a long time after the end credits. Even though it might not be for everyone, those who put in the time and effort will get a lot out of it. It's not a movie for people who don't like challenges, but those who do will find a lot to like here.

Spectral (2016)

Lackluster plot can't be saved by fancy effects

[6/10 · 9 January 2023]

An elite special operations squad travels to the heart of Moldova City to battle otherworldly forces in this science fiction action flick. The film's idea is fascinating, and the CGI employed to bring the supernatural parts to life is top-notch. The well-choreographed action sequences succeed in keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Unfortunately, Spectral's weak points are in its story and characterization. The main characters are likeable enough, but we don't learn much about what drives them or what happened in their pasts, so we can't really care what happens to them. The narrative is also not really surprising and doesn't do enough with the intriguing universe and ideas it presents.

Although Spectral succeeds in entertaining its audience, it is ultimately not a great film because of its flat characters and thin story.

The Cloverfield Paradox (2018)

Fails to deliver on its promise

[5/10 · 9 January 2023]

The Cloverfield Paradox is a 2018 science fiction film directed by Julius Onah and produced by J. J. Abrams. It is the third film in the Cloverfield franchise, following 2008's Cloverfield and 2016's 10 Cloverfield Lane. Unfortunately, despite its high-profile pedigree and talented cast, the film falls flat, failing to deliver on its promise of thrilling sci-fi action and intrigue.

With a score of just 5 out of 10, it's clear that The Cloverfield Paradox is a disappointment. The film's story is convoluted and difficult to follow, and its characters are thinly-developed and uninteresting. The special effects are underwhelming, and the film's pacing is slow and plodding. Overall, The Cloverfield Paradox is a forgettable addition to the Cloverfield franchise and is not worth your time.

Life (I) (2017)

Tense and thrilling

[7/10 · 9 January 2023]

Science fiction horror film "Life" (2017) is a fascinating and dramatic examination of the perils of alien life and the extent to which humanity would go in order to live.

The supporting cast, which includes Rebecca Ferguson and Hiroyuki Sanada, is also excellent, and Jake Gyllenhaal and Ryan Reynolds provide excellent performances as the astronauts on the International Space Station. Seamus McGarvey did an incredible job behind the camera, while Jon Ekstrand did a wonderful job scoring the film.

What really sets this picture different, though, is its examination of both the primordial drives of survival and the perils of inquiry. Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick have crafted an exciting narrative that puts viewers on the edge of their seats as they watch the protagonists face off against an extraterrestrial invasion.

Overall, "Life" is an exciting and stressful picture that benefits from excellent acting and a deep storyline. If you like science fiction horror films or are just searching for a fun and thought-provoking movie, this is a great choice.

The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover (1989)

Powerful performances and thought-provoking script

[8/10 · 9 January 2023]

The destructive aspects of a dysfunctional relationship are examined in "The Cook, the Thief, His Wife, and Her Lover," a striking and emotionally gripping drama released in 1989.

Michael Gambon provides a tour-de-force performance as the cruel and violent robber Albert Spica, and Helen Mirren is equally impressive as his long-suffering wife Georgina. The rest of the ensemble, led by Tim Roth and Alan Howard, is equally excellent. Peter Greenaway's cinematography and Michael Nyman's soundtrack are both stunning.

What really distinguishes this picture, though, is its examination of power, brutality, and the human need for love and freedom. The screenplay by Peter Greenaway is sharp and well-written, and it encourages the audience to ponder the corrosive consequences of power and the role of love in the face of persecution.

Strong performances and a thought-provoking storyline raise "The Cook, the Thief, His Wife, and Her Lover" to the level of a visually spectacular and emotionally impactful picture. Any viewer seeking a visually gorgeous and emotionally powerful picture should not miss this.

Midnight Special (2016)

The film explores identity, faith, and the power of love

[7/10 · 8 January 2023]

"Midnight Special" is an engrossing and thought-provoking science fiction drama that examines the relationship between a father (Michael Shannon) and his son (Jaeden Martell) while they are on the run from government agents and religious extremists. Michael Shannon plays the father, and Jaeden Martell plays the son.

Both Shannon and Martell are outstanding in their respective roles; Shannon gives a powerful and quiet performance as the father, while Martell is just as remarkable as the son. The supporting cast, which includes Kirsten Dunst and Joel Edgerton, also puts up strong performances. Both the cinematography, which was done by Adam Stone, and the soundtrack, which was done by David Wingo, are absolutely breathtaking.

The study of identity, religion, and the transformative power of love are what really set this movie apart from others. The screenplay written by Jeff Nichols is not only insightful and well-written, but it also invites viewers to consider the nature of identity and the role that belief plays in our lives.

Overall, "Midnight Special" is an engaging and thought-provoking film that is heightened by its outstanding performances and breathtaking images. The film's title, "Midnight Special," refers to a television programme that airs at midnight. It is an absolute must-see for everyone who likes science fiction and for anyone who is searching for a movie that can both delight and intellectually challenge them.

The Great Gatsby (2013)

Lavish graphics and superb performers boost a plodding narrative and poor screenplay.

[8/10 · 8 January 2023]

The extravagant and artistically spectacular film "The Great Gatsby" is based on F. Scott Fitzgerald's timeless book "The Great Gatsby." The film was directed by Baz Luhrmann. The film examines the decadence and extravagance that occurred during the Roaring Twenties.

Tobey Maguire is as strong as Leonardo DiCaprio is in his role as the narrator Nick Carraway, while Leonardo DiCaprio gives a powerful and compelling performance as the enigmatic Jay Gatsby. Strong performances are also given by the supporting cast, which includes names like Carey Mulligan and Joel Edgerton. The cinematography, which was done by Simon Duggan, is very stunning, and both the costume design and production design are opulent and intricate.

The story of the movie, however, moves at a glacial pace, and the screenplay, which was written by Baz Luhrmann and Craig Pearce, fails to do justice to the original work by F. Scott Fitzgerald in terms of its richness and subtlety. In spite of these flaws, the movie is definitely worth seeing for readers who like the book and moviegoers who are searching for a visually opulent cinematic experience because of the film's outstanding performers and breathtaking vistas.

In its entirety, "The Great Gatsby" is a gorgeous film that has excellent performances as well as spectacular production design. The story moves slowly, and the writing isn't consistent, which prevents it from realising its full potential.

The Road (I) (2009)

Mortensen and Smit-McPhee shine in emotionally powerful post-apocalyptic drama

[7/10 · 8 January 2023]

"The Road" is a powerful and touching post-apocalyptic drama about the bond between a father (Viggo Mortensen) and his son (Kodi Smit-McPhee) as they journey across a desolate terrain in search of safety. Kodi Smit-McPhee plays the boy. Viggo Mortensen plays the father.

Both Mortensen and Smit-McPhee provide powerful and nuanced performances, with Mortensen playing the father and Smit-McPhee playing the son. The supporting ensemble, which includes Charlize Theron and Robert Duvall, also delivers strong work in their respective roles. Both the cinematography, which was done by Javier Aguirresarobe and the soundtrack, which was done by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis, are really impressive.

The examination of love, family, and the desire to live is nonetheless what makes this movie stand out from others of its like. The novel by Cormac McCarthy with the same name served as the inspiration for Joe Penhall's screenplay for the film. It demonstrates the resilience of humans by showing how the protagonists cope with the impending end of the planet.

"The Road" is a spectacular picture that is heightened by its superb acting, breathtaking photography, and thought-provoking narrative. Overall, "The Road" is an outstanding film. It is a film that should not be missed by anybody who enjoys watching post-apocalyptic dramas, as well as by anyone who is seeking for a movie that is compelling and strong emotionally.

Sound of Metal (2019)

The film is a highlight.

[9/10 · 8 January 2023]

Riz Ahmed, Olivia Cooke, and Paul Raci feature in the drama Sound of Metal, which was directed by Darius Marder and is directed by Marder as well. The protagonist of the movie is Ruben, played by Ahmed, a heavy metal drummer who has a loss of hearing and must learn to adapt to his new environment.

Cooke is just as great in her role as Ruben's fiancée Lou as Ahmed is in his role as Ruben, which is a dramatic and heartbreaking performance. Raci is particularly outstanding in his role as Joe, a recovered addict and former drummer who assists Ruben in adjusting to life in a community of deaf people. Both the cinematography, which was done by Daniel Bouquet and the soundtrack, which was written by Abraham Marder and Nicholas Britell, are really impressive.

The examination of themes such as identity and community, as well as the transformational effect of grief, are what really set this movie apart from others. The screenplay, written by Marder and Abraham Marder, is powerful and well-written, and it encourages the audience to reflect on the ways in which we identify ourselves as individuals as well as the role that community plays in our everyday lives.

Sound of Metal is a noteworthy picture that is heightened by its outstanding acting, breathtaking photography, and thought-provoking narrative. Overall, the film is a highlight. It is an absolute need to see for everyone who enjoys dramatic works or is searching for a movie that may stir both emotion and mind.

The Favourite (2018)

I enjoy the caustic humor.

[8/10 · 8 January 2023]

Yorgos Lanthimos is the director of the historical drama "The Favourite," which has a cast that includes Olivia Colman, Rachel Weisz, and Emma Stone. In the early 18th century in England, the film depicts the tale of the stormy relationship that developed between two cousins as they competed for the favour of Queen Anne (Colman).

Colman gives an outstanding performance as Queen Anne, and Weisz and Stone are just as good as her cousins Sarah and Abigail respectively in this drama. Strong performances are also given by the rest of the cast, notably Nicholas Hoult and Joe Alwyn. Robbie Ryan delivers a magnificent performance behind the camera, and both the production design and costume design are opulent and meticulously executed.

The film's keen wit, caustic humour, and examination of power relations are what really set it apart from other similar works. As the protagonists traverse the harsh world of court politics, the screenplay that Deborah Davis and Tony McNamara have created is witty and well-crafted, and it keeps the audience on their toes.

The Favourite is an outstanding picture that is boosted not just by its great performances but also by its stunning photography and its clever narrative. It is a film that should not be missed by everyone who enjoys historical dramas as well as anyone who is searching for a movie that can both amuse and provoke thinking.

The Danish Girl (2015)

Moves at a glacial pace

[7/10 · 8 January 2023]

Eddie Redmayne, Alicia Vikander, and Amber Heard act as the three leads in the biographical drama titled "The Danish Girl," which was directed by Tom Hooper. The film is based on the real events that occurred in the life of Lili Elbe, who was one of the first known patients to have gender reassignment surgery. The film also focuses on the connection that Lili Elbe had with her wife, Gerda (Alexander Vikander).

Both Redmayne and Vikander are fantastic in their roles; Redmayne gives a delicate and nuanced performance as Lili, while Vikander is just as great as Gerda. In addition, the supporting ensemble, which includes Matthias Schoenaerts and Ben Whishaw, gives strong performances. Both the cinematography, which was done by Danny Cohen, and the soundtrack, which was done by Alexandre Desplat, are stunning.

The story of the movie, on the other hand, moves at a glacial pace and, at times, comes out as needlessly theatrical. The book by David Ebershoff with the same name serves as the inspiration for the screenplay that was written by Lucinda Coxon, but the script fails to adequately convey the nuances and feelings that are inherent in the connection between Lili and Gerda.

In general, The Danish Girl is a well-acted picture with stunning photography; but, the film's sluggish tempo and overly dramatic storyline hinder it from realising its full potential. Fans of Eddie Redmayne and Alicia Vikander may find their performances entertaining, but viewers hoping for a picture with more layers of complexity and a stronger emotional impact may be let down by this one.

Her (2013)

An examination of love, connection, and to be human

[9/10 · 8 January 2023]

Joaquin Phoenix, Scarlett Johansson, and Amy Adams feature in the love drama Her, which was directed by Spike Jonze and is also directed by Jonze. The plot of the movie centres on a solitary guy called Theodore (played by Phoenix), who meets and falls in love with a sophisticated artificial intelligence operating system named Samantha (Johansson).

In his role as Theodore, Joaquin Phoenix gives a sympathetic and nuanced performance, while Scarlett Johansson's vocal work as Samantha is just as impressive. Strong performances are also given by the supporting cast, which includes Adams and Olivia Wilde, amongst others. Both the cinematography, which was done by Hoyte van Hoytema, and the soundtrack, which was done by Arcade Fire, are stunning, and both are quite evocative.

The examination of love, connection, and what it is to be human is what distinguishes Her as a film from other similar works. The screenplay that was created by Spike Jonze is not only insightful and well-written, but it also encourages viewers to contemplate the nature of love as well as the part that technology plays in our lives.

Her is a noteworthy picture that is heightened by its outstanding performances, breath-taking cinematography, and thought-provoking narrative. Overall, Her is a standout film. It is a film that should not be missed by everyone who enjoys romance and science fiction, as well as by anyone who is searching for a movie that will make them think and feel.

Black Swan (2010)

Breath-taking cinematography

[7/10 · 8 January 2023]

Natalie Portman, Vincent Cassel, and Mila Kunis star in the psychological thriller Black Swan, which was directed by Darren Aronofsky and written by Gillian Flynn. Nina, a young ballerina played by Natalie Portman, is driven to the edge of insanity as she prepares for the main part in a staging of "Swan Lake." The tale is told through the lens of the film.

As Nina, Natalie Portman gives a performance that is nothing short of spectacular, while Vincent Cassel and Mila Kunis are more than capable of holding their own beside her. Both the cinematography, which was done by Matthew Libatique, and the choreography, which was done by Benjamin Millepied, are breathtaking.

But what really distinguishes Black Swan from other films is the way in which it examines the shadowy side of perfection and the thin line that separates sanity from insanity. The intelligent and well-written screenplay that was co-written by Mark Heyman, Andres Heinz, and John J. McLaughlin keeps the audience on the edge of their seats as they are dragged into Nina's increasingly strange and nightmare-like reality.

Black Swan is an outstanding picture that is heightened by its excellent acting, breathtaking cinematography, and thought-provoking narrative. Overall, the film is a triumph. It is an absolute must-see for everyone who enjoys psychological thrillers and for anyone who is searching for a movie that will keep them wondering right up until the credits roll.

2 Guns (2013)

Washington and Wahlberg have strong chemistry

[7/10 · 8 January 2023]

Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg feature in the action comedy picture 2 Guns, which was directed by Baltasar Kormákur. In the film, Washington and Wahlberg play two criminals who are suddenly forced to work together on a mission to take down a drug lord.

In their roles as protagonists, Washington and Wahlberg have strong chemistry, and they both bring the warmth and charisma that are trademarks of their acting to the roles. Strong performances are also given by the supporting cast, which includes Paula Patton and Bill Paxton, among others. The fight scenes are well staged and exciting, and Oliver Wood's photography is of a high quality throughout the film.

The story of the movie, on the other hand, is conventional and unoriginal, and the screenplay, which was written by Blake Masters, is shallow and uncomplicated. The film's ideas and characters come off as being simplistic and undeveloped, and there are instances when the film's humour is completely lacking.

2 Guns is an exciting action picture that is bolstered by the performances of its actors, but it fails to rise beyond its predictable and thin narrative. Overall, the film's rating is 7/10. Fans of Washington and Wahlberg may get a kick out of seeing them appear on screen together, but viewers hoping for a picture with more depth and complexity may be left feeling let down by this one.

The Equalizer 2 (2018)

Overall, the film is okay.

[6/10 · 8 January 2023]

Both the first film from 2014 and its sequel, titled simply "The Equalizer 2," are adaptations of the same name given to a television series that aired in the 1980s. The plot of the movie centres on Robert McCall, a former CIA agent played by Denzel Washington, who, after retiring from the agency, decides to use his special set of abilities to aid people in need and exact revenge on those who have harmed him and his loved ones.

In yet another outing, Washington gives a powerful and authoritative performance as McCall, and the supporting cast, which includes Pedro Pascal and Bill Pullman, also turns in outstanding performances. The fight scenes are exciting to watch because of the excellent choreography, and cinematographer Oliver Wood does a good job with the filming.

The story of the movie, on the other hand, is very simplistic and follows a well-worn path; it does not introduce anything novel to the proceedings. The screenplay, which was written by Richard Wenk, is simple and doesn't have any complexities or subtleties. The ideas and characters in the movie also seem simple and not very well thought out.

The Equalizer 2 is a solid action thriller that is enhanced by Denzel Washington's performance, but it fails to live up to the promise of either the first film in the franchise or the television series on which it is based. Overall, the film is okay. Denzel Washington's performance is elevated. Those who are not acquainted with the series may find the movie to be shallow and lacking in content, but fans of the first film or the TV series are likely to appreciate seeing McCall back on the big screen.

Sicario (2015)

An intense and potent criminal thriller

[8/10 · 8 January 2023]

Sicario is an intense and potent criminal thriller that delves into the murky world of the drug cartels that operate along the border between the United States and Mexico. Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin, and Benicio del Toro feature in the movie, which recounts the narrative of an idealistic FBI agent who is recruited to join a hidden task force on a mission to take down a formidable cartel boss. The film was directed by Denis Villeneuve and stars those three actors.

As the film's main character, Blunt gives a performance that is powerful and subtle, while Brolin and del Toro also put in superb supporting performances to back her up. The action scenes are tight and well planned, and the cinematography, which was done by Roger Deakins, is just magnificent.

However, what distinguishes Sicario from other crime thrillers is the film's investigation of intricate moral topics and the ambiguous boundaries between good and evil. The screenplay, written by Taylor Sheridan, is not only insightful but also very well written, and it forces the viewer to think about the effects of the choices made by the characters.

Sicario is a noteworthy picture that is heightened by its outstanding acting, breathtaking cinematography, and thought-provoking writing. Overall, the film is a highlight. Fans of the subgenre, as well as everyone else interested in a suspenseful and thought-provoking thriller, absolutely must miss this one.

Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018)

Impressive performance but falling short

[7/10 · 8 January 2023]

In Sicario 2, Josh Brolin's character Matt Graver, a federal agent, and Benicio del Toro's character Alejandro Gillick, a hitman, continue their plot from the previous film. The director, Stefano Sollima, explores topics related to corruption and justice, as well as the ambiguous spaces that exist between the two.

Impressive performances are delivered not just by Del Toro and Brolin, who are repeating the roles they played in the film before this one, but also by the rest of the cast, which includes Isabela Moner and Jeffrey Donovan. Behind the camera, Dariusz Wolski does a terrific job, and the action sequences are exciting and expertly planned.

The film is not nearly as excellent as the first Sicario since it does not have the engrossing story or the well-developed characters that made the previous film such an unforgettable experience. There are inconsistencies in the story's logic, and the movie doesn't always do a good job of going into the issues that it brings up.

Sicario: Day of the Soldado is not nearly as fantastic as the first film in the series, despite the fact that both of the film's primary actors provide outstanding performances. People who enjoyed the first film could like seeing these characters again in the sequel, but viewers who haven't watched any of the previous films in the series might find the plot of this one to be lacking and difficult to follow.

Uncharted (2022)

Competent action film.

[7/10 · 7 January 2023]

Uncharted is a competent action film that lives up to its hype in terms of excitement and performance, but it falls short in terms of innovation, which is a shame since it could have been so much more. The script by Rafe Lee Judkins, Matt Holloway, and Art Marcum doesn't give much in the way of character development or humour for Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg, despite the fact that Holland and Wahlberg have fantastic chemistry in the leading parts. Others who are familiar with the video game series may find it thrilling to see their favourite characters brought to life on the big screen; but, for those who are not familiar with the genre, the film may seem to be simplistic and boring.