Diddisnap Reviews

The Haunting of Hill House (2018)

Totally Unexpected!

[10/10 · 19 October 2018]

I had seen a trailer recently on Netflix for Hill House and finally decided to give it a try. Wow. The writing, the acting (both young and old) are just outstanding. While going back between different time periods can often be annoying or confusing, it isn't in this. That's in thanks to the superb writing. I am only on episode 6, but I couldn't resist writing a review. I don't think I've ever given any TV show a "10." I loved Breaking Bad, and gave it a "9," and consider it one of the best TV shows ever made.

Yes, this show is creepy and fairly scary. More suspenseful than anything in my opinion. But it is much, much more, than just a horror show.

Split (IX) (2016)

Fantastic!

[9/10 · 10 November 2017]

This most definite psychological thriller was surprising, with outstanding performances by James McAvoy, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Betty Buckley. Of course, in M. Night Shyamalan fashion, there are twists and turns that you don't see coming. I read that Split 2 is coming out in 2019 - can't wait!

The Legend of Tarzan (2016)

Nearly Excellent

[9/10 · 14 May 2017]

I recorded Tarzan at home from one of the Premium channels. It sat there for like two months. Finally, I watched it, and I was amazed. It was a fantastic movie! I don't quite understand why it doesn't have at least a 7.5 on the IMDb rating or a 2/4 from RogerEbert.com when it should really be a 3/4.

I thought this movie would be just a change-up of the story many of us already know. Not at all, as it continues where the story leaves off. There are fantastic performances by Alexander Skarsgard, Margot Robbie, Samuel L Jackson, Christopher Waltz, and Djimon Hounsou, but Alexander as Tarzan and Margot as Jane were the standouts and perfect for the roles.

This movie was intense, moving, sad, and even times funny. I would highly recommend.

Insidious: Chapter 3 (2015)

Pretty Darn Scary

[7/10 · 22 April 2016]

I'm giving this movie a 7 due to the creep factor. I have been watching horror movies since I was young and it takes a lot to scare me. This did a pretty good job. I actually jumped a few times and rarely does that happen. I thought Insidious 1 & 2 were decent, but not nearly as scary as this one. Was it the most fantastically written/acted horror movie? Well, No, but its good enough to make it work. The ending is a bit silly, but most horror movie endings are. Rarely can a horror movie match that of the Exorcist or Alien, those in my opinion, are 10's, or Halloween or The Ring, those in my opinion, are 9's, but those classics are rare. So, I say enjoy it for what it is, a decent, suspenseful horror movie.

Dreamcatcher (2003)

Worth a watch

[7/10 · 13 January 2016]

Dreamcatcher. Interesting title and not the best title in my opinion. Anyway, unless you have the read the book, which I had not, this movie definitely turns into something unexpected. Predictable? Not in the least bit. I thought the actors portraying the four friends were great and the characters very likable. Unfortunately, some of them (won't say who or when) don't make it. That was a bit of a shocker and a disappointment. But, I guess that's the story. This movie is a little gory, suspenseful, and unpredictable. I do think the first half is better than the second half, but still worth a watch. I gave this movie a "7" as I have seen it about 4 times since it was released,about 12 years ago, as I still find it an interesting story.

Dying of the Light (2014)

Not Well Done

[4/10 · 1 November 2015]

This movie is low budget, which doesn't necessarily mean bad, but this one happens to be poorly written. With movies like Joe (also low-budget, but well-written), Gone in Sixty Seconds, City of Angels, Moonstruck, Guarding Tess, and Leaving Las Vegas, Nicholas Cage has shown that he is a very capable actor. Looking at his history, he seems to average about 3 movies per year, so he is a very busy actor. But, he seems to take any part he is handed. Only he knows whether or not that is true, but there are so many horrible movies he has played a part in, I just don't get it! Maybe he just likes to keep busy. I will watch about 5 of his movies and think, "wow, I guess his best days as a good actor are gone." Then a movie will pop-out, like "Joe," which he just does an amazing job in. I have come to the conclusion that he is a fantastic actor, but I do think he chooses many movies based on a paycheck and his heart is obviously not in it, or else he would do a better job.

Z Nation (2014–2018)

Light-hearted Zombie Series

[27 October 2015]

I began watching Z Nation on Netflix last year. It was the first season. I am now onto the 2nd season which I catch on the Syfy channel. I also watch The Walking Dead and Fear the Walking Dead, and both those shows are very different to Z Nation. While there are some serious parts, it is mostly easy-going and quite funny. It doesn't take itself too seriously and if it did, it would probably bomb. There are zombies, a pack of survivors who have become friends, and people do unfortunately die. But, the show mainly ends each episode on a positive note, rather than devastation. If you like movies like Zombieland, Sean of the Dead, or Warm Bodies, then you will probably like Z Nation.

Zombie Night (2013 TV Movie)

Uh. Not good.

[3/10 · 27 October 2015]

With actors like Anthony Michael Hall and Darryl Hannah playing key parts, I would have thought this movie would have been much better. The acting is just okay, and part of that is due to a very weak, predictable story. It wasn't in the least bit scary or suspenseful. The behavior of the some of the living was far worse than the walking dead. The character, Officer Johnson, played by Rogelio Ramos, was quite confusing. It appeared towards the beginning of the movie that his character would be developing. Strangely, that didn't happen. So my question is, why bother? To fill-up time? I was in the middle of doing work on my laptop while this movie played in the background. If not, it would have been shut off after about 30 minutes. Why so long? Only because of the actors. I wanted to give them a chance. What a waste.

Disaster L.A. (2014)

Better Than Expected - Minor Spoilers

[5/10 · 27 October 2015]

I recorded this movie along with several others to watch at random right before Halloween. This is when I get in the mood to binge- watch scary movies. Many of these movies are low-budget, but that doesn't necessarily mean terrible.

It begins at a party with young twenty-somethings. Right away, it starts off with terrible acting, other than the main character, John (Justin Ray). He does a decent job. The worst performance is by the character, Turner (Jerod Meagher), who happens to be John's brother. I was hoping he would disappear soon in the movie because his acting is so spastic and distracting.

The morning after the party is when devastation begins. It's actually pretty scary, especially when they don't know what's happening. When things get serious, Turner begins to calm down, thankfully, or else I would have had to stop the movie. As a less spastic Turner, his acting improves, which I'm thankful for. Being an obvious low-budget movie, means no amazing special effects and no big-name actors. In order for this movie to stand on its own, both the story and the actors need to be decent. As this movie progresses, the acting among the group of survivors holds-up and the story continues be fairly creepy. It was enough to keep me hooked. Because of this, I have to give this movie a higher rating.

If you like survival movies, then you may like this one. While I wouldn't pay to see it in a movie theater, it is a decent movie to watch at home. Even my daughter, who was making fun of it in the beginning, was also hooked about 10 minutes in.

In the Land of Women (2007)

Surprisingly Heartwarming.

[8/10 · 23 September 2015]

I only recently stumbled upon "In the Land of Women", eight years after release, on cable. Why did it take so long? It was half-way into the movie and I quickly learned that I was hooked and must- watch- from- the- beginning. Like many prior reviews, I also thought it was going to be a silly romantic comedy. I would like to deduct several points just for the horrible trailer. A terrible insight to what the movie is really about. I quickly learned it was a great drama that put me in tears. Of course I will say that I tear-up fairly easily, which I think has only gotten worse with age. I think this is due to more years of life experience. I "get it." I can relate to what some of the characters are going through because I have either been through it myself or know someone who has. This movie is a well-written, well-acted drama that is simple enough to not put into dramatic devastation, meaning, I didn't walk away feeling emotionally devastated. I walked away from the movie feeling that things were going to be okay, more than okay.

I don't know what it is about Kristen Stewart's awkward acting. It's definitely her signature. I found her a perfect fit for Bella in Twilight. She was awkward, tough but feminine, and pretty but not a bombshell which is refreshing for a movie like that. I think she will only get better as she gets older and she is original. Meg Ryan also does wonderfully as the mother, as well as Adam Brody as the main character, Carter.

I would suggest searching for this movie on cable, record it, and give it a try when you have a quiet moment. It's one of those movies that put life into perspective.

Dracula Untold (2014)

Pleasantly Surprised

[8/10 · 30 August 2015]

I saw Dracula Untold listed in the guide on cable and thought, why not, I'll record it and give it a shot at some point. I didn't expect much from this movie, mainly because there really hasn't been a truly good back-to- basics vampire movie since Bram Stoker's Dracula. Also, this one only runs a bit over 90 minutes, so how good could it really be? Well, I found that I was pleasantly surprised to learn that was quite good. This one goes back to the story of Vlad the Impaler, with a twist. Dracula Untold includes strong performances by Luke Evans as Vlad and Sarah Gadon as his wife, Mirena, along with great special effects and a well-written story. This movie deserves a Part 2, and I hope to see one!

The Casual Vacancy (2015)

Really Good.

[9/10 · 24 July 2015]

This was a really good mini-series. It left me wanting to see more and I was very disappointed it was over. I didn't realize when I first started watching it on BBC in the US that it was only a mini-series. I thought it was a regular show, and at first I wondered when the next episode was coming! It's a true drama, and terribly sad in parts, with no feel good happy ending. It showed the realities of the struggles of different people. There is no sugar coating. With all this, why even bother watching it ? Because its so well done. It's as simple as that. It has a story that draws you in, characters that connect, and very good performances.

Proof (2015)

Surprisingly Hooked

[8/10 · 21 July 2015]

I wasn't expecting too much from Proof as there are many new shows each season that start out good and fall apart fairly quickly. I have to say that this series just seems to be getting better and better and I find myself looking forward to each new episode. So far it doesn't seem to be getting wrapped up in supernatural ridiculousness, just the search for truth and for me, it keeps the show more real. As long as the writers don't veer off into the Twilight Zone, I think this show could be around for the long haul. Also, there are some outstanding performances, particularly by Jennifer Beals, Matthew Modine, and Edi Gathegi.

Halloween (1978)

A Classic

[10/10 · 13 June 2015]

I wish they didn't try to remake this one. Why bother ? It just can't be done. I think the two best things about this movie - the music and Jamie Lee Curtis. Without those two, it just wouldn't have been the same. I have the theme music, which I play every Halloween through a front open window of my house to add to the creep factor - that and the theme from Exorcist. The best movies don't need special effects to make it awesome. It was just well done. Halloween will always be one of my favorite horror movies of all time and in my opinion, Jaime Lee Curtis' best performance (and Trading Places). If you haven't seen Halloween yet (which would be hard for me to fathom since I grew up on it, watching it every Halloween), then I suggest waiting until Halloween. It usually comes out every year.

Deliver Us from Evil (I) (2014)

Pleasantly Surprised

[8/10 · 13 June 2015]

I was flipping through channels and this movie caught my attention. It was already about half way through. After about 15 minutes, I stopped and decided it was worth watching from the beginning. I am a horror movie enthusiast and it takes a lot to grab my interest. I was also surprised to find that the movie was loosely based on true events and the characters are real. Doesn't mean I do/don't believe, but it makes for a good horror movie. Eric Bana was believable portraying Sarchie, a NY cop from the Bronx. I had forgotten that he also played Hector in Troy, and I thought he had done an outstanding job in that role. This movie kept me involved and waiting to see what happened next. The ending was OK, it could have been better, but it didn't take away from the whole movie in my opinion. Was it scary ? Somewhat. For someone who is not a horror movie buff, they may have nightmares. For me, it was a bit creepy. In my opinion, it is one of the better demonic possession, supernatural movies out there.

Twilight (I) (2008)

Shocker - One of my favorite movies

[8/10 · 12 May 2015]

Why is this one of my favorite movies ? Its certainly not Academy worthy. It isn't the Shawshank Redemption, Terms of Endearment, or the Wizard of Oz. They are on a whole other level, but I think the draw is the uniqueness. There have been many attempts over the years to replicate or do something similar and they just don't cut it. Bella is not the perfect, beautiful main female character that you would normally see in a movie like this. She is quirky and pretty, but she doesn't wear the perfect clothes, makeup, and isn't the most popular girl in school. She has a quirky relationship with both her mother and father who are divorced which also makes the story unique. This movie - and its subsequent series, will always be remembered because it is quite simply, different. Whether you like Kristen Stewart or not, I thought she was the perfect fit for the role of Bella, because she is naturally quirky.

Also, I must mention the other draw for me - the beautiful scenery. Who doesn't love mountains, tree's, and waterfalls ?

I gave it an 8 out of 10 because of course it has its flaws and even at times is just plain ridiculous, but still manages to remain addicting.

Maleficent (2014)

Pleasantly Surprised - Semi Character Spoiler

[9/10 · 26 February 2015]

Maleficent turned out to be even better than expected. A twist on the tale we all know, and I think I prefer this version. It can be a bit too dark for young children, so I would recommend 8+ due to violence. Angelina Jolie was fantastic as Maleficent. I can't imagine another actress that would do as well in the roll. Her character goes from being caring to angry to evil, but always having some sort of compassion. I would have liked to have seen more detail about the relationship between Stefan and Maleficent. I felt as if the film had to be shortened for some reason and they chose to remove that detail, which I feel could have made the movie a bit more powerful.

The East (2013)

Give It a Chance

[9/10 · 15 October 2014]

This was a really interesting movie and it didn't take long before I was hooked. I think the reviews are far lower than what they should be. This is an intense drama, not a terrorist action movie. I initially watched about 10 minutes (about half way through) while channel surfing one evening. It didn't really appeal to me, but considering I just jumped into it, that shouldn't be surprising. But I recently decided to give it another shot - starting from the beginning - and I am glad I did. Again, this is a drama, with a real story – something you can't just jump into like your typical action movie. The performances are believable and the standouts are Brit Marling, Alexander S., Ellen Page, and Toby Kebbell. In the end, the movie left me wanting more and it would be great to see a Part 2 !

Dallas Buyers Club (2013)

Overrated ? Not in the Least !

[10/10 · 22 February 2014]

Fantastic and moving story. Matthew McConaughey, Jared Leto, and Jennifer Garner gave their best performances to date in my opinion. The movie does open your eyes to the realities of how pharmaceutical companies take full advantage of people here in the states. For those who were not around in the early 80's or at least at an age of understanding of when the Aids epidemic really became public. This movie is a good example of how things were in the beginning and the fight it took for the victims of this disease to stay alive, especially the victims who could not afford proper treatment. In the early 80's, the majority of people died and there really wasn't any hope. We have come a long way since then. This movie is a fight for survival but it doesn't get too serious, there are many funny moments as well.