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JeromeV79631
Reviews
Beyond Your Consciousness - The Beginning (2024)
Interesting DePalma-esque Thriller
"Beyond Your Consciousness" is a psychological thriller in the mold of 1970's Brian DePalma. Story begins with psychiatrist Amanda, portrayed by Jen Ayer Drake, treating a teenage patient suffering from supernatural trauma. From here story shifts to Amanda's new home, but soon after, mysterious presences reach out to her. Lead actress Jen Ayer Drake does a great job navigating the emotional ups and downs of this character as she seems to descend into madness. There are many supernatural/horror elements that emerge, things that go bump in the night, and ghostly voices/apparitions. Our own sense of reality is challenged. I really enjoyed this movie. It's technically well-made, and worth checking out if you want a good supernatural thriller with a surprise ending.
Scooter LaForge: A Life of Art (2023)
Ultra-Relevant Artist Doc
This is a stunning, immersive documentary on the life and times of visionary artist Scooter LaForge. From his humble beginnings in Las Cruces, NM, to San Francisco during the early 90's, to his present home in NYC, his journey will blow your mind. Using integrated animations, edgy original songs, and ultra-kinetic camerawork/editing, the filmmakers take viewers into the mind of this talented mixed media artist. Scooter's insights into art and the world around us are intelligent and provocative, highlighted by his extraordinary work. I was reminded of Andy Warhol and the 1960's. I can't say enough about the talent on display here, both in front of and behind the camera. You do want not miss this movie!
Threebound (2019)
Excellent Romantic Comedy
The premise of Threebound is simple: boy meets girl and they instantly hit it off. But since both have just gotten out of long-term relationships, they agree to take the rebound sting off by dating 3 other people. Writer/Co-Director and lead actress Kate Forsatz is a triple-threat here, creating a compelling story with two main characters we really care about. Co-star Jason Griffith makes it look easy to create a sympathetic character who is both funny and somewhat neurotic. The conflicts arise as the interference of others clouds their simple attraction for each other. I really enjoyed this movie, and the backdrop of NYC. It's a solidly-made indie film. If you're looking for a modern yet classic relationship movie, this is the one.
Token Taverns (2023)
Great Indie Doc About Arcade Gamers
This feature doc focuses on the rebirth of arcade bars -- pinball, Space Invaders, Packman, and more. In this comprehensive doc, you will learn about legends Billy Mitchell, champion gamer, and the remarkable community of arcade players who decide to come together as a community to share their mutual love for games. This well-made doc focuses on the resurgence of the gaming community as a communal experience. Vector, Reboot, Glitch, and Lowry Parcade are just a few of the arcade bars featured. We learn about their struggles, from inception, through Covid lockdown nightmares, and to the aftermath which includes Comicon. I love when I learn something new from a documentary. I am not a gamer myself, but appreciate the passion of folks who are. Check this out - you will not be disappointed.
The Misadventures of Mistress Maneater (2020)
Very Entertaining, Led By Talented Actress
The story of a sometimes dominatrix who owes $500k plus interest to a loan shark is made memorable by its main character, Ava Moriarty. She is both witty and convincing, and actress Lorrisa Julianus does a great job portraying her. She is capably backed up by Mickey O'Sullivan (who plays a priest she investigates), and several other colorful characters.
I laughed several times while watching this (intentionally). It's a really well-written movie with a unique viewpoint. I would love to see more adventures with the main character, Ava. Perfect blend of heart, intelligence, and smart-ass retorts. I enjoyed the art/forgery subplot and thought it blended well with the rest of the unfolding story. Lorissa Julianus who both wrote the script and took on the lead character of Ava is a creative force to be reckoned with. Watch this movie; you will not be disappointed.
Cocoa (2023)
Delightful Screwball Comedy
This was a really enjoyable movie. Story centers around two sisters at the end of their rope financially who invent something that has never existed before: chocolate cake that makes you lose weight. This kicks off a crazy adventure with a colorful cast of supporting characters. You've got the wealthy socialite wife (investor), her bumbling underling, a mob boss interested in getting a piece of the action, one dead body, a sick dog, police, a news reporter hell-bent on making her mark, the list goes on. Kudos to writer/co-director and lead actress Jody Mortara and co-director Joe Gawalis for keeping the pace and the silliness happening at regular intervals. In the spirit of the British comedies of late. I really liked this one!
Bang Bang Betty: Valerie's Revenge (2023)
Really Hits The Mark!
I really enjoyed this movie. From the gunplay, to the mano-a-mano fight scenes, to the at times over-the-top dramatics, it's clear the filmmakers had fun telling this story. Valerie is determined to bring down a major drug kingpin who is peddling laced contraband. Assisting her is a team of ex-Feds and DEA cohorts. The story takes us through the deserts and dark corners of the south. Actress Emily Rose Hernandez really owns the lead character. The movie celebrates crime drama in the mold of Tarrantino and Sergio Leone. The finale features a great Western town set with full complement of extras and all the gunplay you could ever wish for. Great movie to watch with friends - highly recommend!
Dublin Crust (2023)
Punk is Back!!
Dublin Crust tells the entertaining story of 4 bandmates (and their manager) who were a popular punk band in the late 1990's, went their separate ways, and decide to reform now as middle-aged geezers to see if they've still got it. The answer is a resounding 'yes!' This is a delightful movie in the vein of The Commitments or The Full Monty, that delves into choices we make in life, and how to reclaim past glory. The music is great throughout, and I give big kudos to Director Baz Black, the Producers, and fine cast for pulling out all the stops to tell this story. If you have any memories of the punk rock movement of the 1990's, you will love this. Beyond that, it's a solid character story about friends and staying true to what you believe. Check it out!
The Sound of Waves (2023)
Very Smart Relationship Drama
A budding playwright (Tom Phelan) pens a play about heartbreak surrounding a former girlfriend (the charming Alex Frnka) leaving him for a woman. When auditions commence for the lead roles, fate intervenes as the playwright lands the male lead, and his ex emerges as the perfect fit for the female lead. Director Chris Frint has crafted a captivating romance/drama, inviting audiences on a compelling journey of self-reflection and rekindled connections. In less skilled hands, this premise might've grown stale quickly. However, writer Tyler Dowey's script is both intelligent and emotionally gripping, ensuring the narrative remains fresh and engaging throughout. Supporting characters are also intelligently drawn (Phelan's character is married; Frnka is planning her impending wedding to her wife-to-be). As the two leads delve into their roles during rehearsals, old feelings for each other resurface, straining their current relationships. Cinematography and sound are solid. I highly recommend this endearing indie gem! It's perfect for a date night.
AVA: A Twist in the Road (2021)
Nice Drama w/ Good Heart!
Any good movie begins with the main character. Show us their world, what is important to them and why, and we will be engaged. "Ava: A Twist in the Road" is a demonstration of this. Catherane Skillen, who wrote, directed, and starred in the film makes this abundantly clear by presenting us with an imperfect character that we come to understand and care about. Prompted by best friend Leanne (Tannis Benedict), she moves back into the world hoping to reintegrate and piece her life back together again. The movie depicts life choices I suspect many must face in later years. Nice turn by Sophiah Koikas (as matchmaker Irma). "AVA" is a courageous story that asks what it means to be independent, how to deal with extended families who shun you, and still find your light.
A Dangerous Prey (2024)
Ambitious Achievement - Urban Actioner
Making any feature film is extraordinarily difficult; there are a myriad of challenges one faces. This movie features a number of characters and diverse locations, and focuses on the plight of a young black couple striving to secure the American dream. There are secrets, and dark corners of society. Story is primarily told through the eyes of Keisha (played by TaJa Brittaney). Ultimately, the couple must find strength in themselves to triumph. Technical marks were fair, I would've preferred stronger shot compositions and fuller sound design. But the transformation of a young mother-to-be into a vigilante is worth watching.
Thorns & Thistles at the End of the World (2023)
Indie Drama Set Against Apocalypse
A powerful drama that explores the last days of humanity, and the choices we ultimately make. We follow the main character, Paul (played by Jeremy Levy), as he struggles to understand the circumstances that led to a great tragedy. His life has not been the same since. Visually, some gorgeous exterior cinematography, and nice use of wide-angle lenses to draw you close to the characters. Sound design and music score are quite evocative in painting the picture of this desolate, largely unpopulated world. While we are left to wonder about the how and why of what's happening, the real focus is on the interactions between characters, and how each one chooses to cope with their situation. There are some elements of faith and religion. Director Aaron Kamp has a solid hand with his actors and creates an ominous vibe from beginning to end. It has a positive message for us all.
This Is Your Song (2023)
Beatiful, Powerful Relationship Drama
For an independent feature film, this was technically and creatively one of the most impressive movies I've ever seen. I don't know how they pulled it off. Huge kudos to Director Hassan Said and DP Peggy Peralta. The style of the movie is reminiscent of Inarritu's "Birdman" in that nearly the entire story is told with what feels like a single continuous camera shot. This means the lead actors (talented Briana Walsh and Jordan Potch) had to memorize and perform for long stretches at a time. It also means the normal control a director uses to moderate pacing (via editing) is not in evidence - nor is it needed. A really beautiful journey into the best/worst aspects of a multi-year relationship between two artistic lovers. The musical score by Brad Fischer is excellent. I cannot recommend this movie enough. There may be an overabundance of "I love you/I hate you" duality throughout, but that is ultimately what the movie explores. See it!
Move Me No Mountain (2023)
Well-Directed Indie Drama
I was very impressed by this indie film by Deborah Richards, who wrote, directed, acted as cinematographer, and also edited. A tour-de-force of creative talent. For me, this is what the movie "Nomadland" was trying to be but never accomplished. Here, the main character of Jenna has real stakes -- the loss of her daughter in a tragic accident. All performances were strong, with special call-outs to lead Cat Lellie, Nick Roylance, and newcomer Layla Campbell. It is a somewhat episodic narrative about the way we beat ourselves up and reject help until we are ready to receive it. I highly recommend this movie to anyone wanting to experience a solid relationship drama.
Hemisphere (2023)
Scifi Ideas on an Indie Scale
This is a science fiction genre movie because it projects what the world may be like in 23 years' time. According to the movie, we will be colonizing and exploiting mineral deposits on other planets in our solar system. Big companies will control what happens in most respects, with individual workers likely to be an afterthought. AI computers will have an equal say in what happens. "Hemisphere" shows us the 'what if' aspects of this likely scenario in an inventive way. Focusing on the point of view of two characters, we see how human thinking distorts during long stretches in space. Set design was pretty sparse at times, and I was hoping for more mano a mano combat, maybe. All in all, though, an intriguing entry.
Maestro (2023)
An intelligent love story!
I was pleasantly surprised by this movie. At its heart, it's a ver sweet love story between Bernstein and his wife. Bradley Cooper and Carey Mulligan deserve every iota of acclaim they get - these are stellar performances. It's an unusual story and relationship, but that's the very thing I appreciate. There's complexity, humor, betrayal, heartache. At the end of the day, the human race is just flawed. But we sure as hell aspire to be more. This movie is a great reminder of our brilliance and imperfection. Solid technicals - cinematography, sound design, color grade all first rate. Great use of period music on the score.
Gojira -1.0 (2023)
Best Movie of 2023
Simply the best movie of 2023 -- and it works on every level. Great drama, great action, suspense, completely terrifying monster. The filmmakers are smart and know the worldwide audience is smart as well! No simplistic pandering here. I loved the non-traditional family unit they create, and backdrop of Japan's embarrassment following WW2. Godzilla is just fricking P. O.'d and I love it. The special effects rival anything I've seen the US studios do. Really top-rate stuff. There is one "Jaws"-like sequence on the water than I truly appreciated. So glad I was able to see it in the theater. Big recommend from me.