insomniac_rod Reviews

Fraternity Demon (1992)

I finally watched it and I am in peace.

[2/10 · 18 September 2023]

Well, I finally made peace with this title.

Since I started roaming IMDB (reviews section, the now defunct formus), I read about this title from time to time. Thus, I HAD the urge to watch it.

I could not find it on torrent or cable. Finally, TUBI released it days ago.

Man, it is even worse than expected. The movie is some sort of soft-core porn effort. It looks like a Sega CD video-game because of the music, the acting, the rock performances, and the direction which is pretty much point-and-shoot.

Trixxie Bowie seems to have fun although she did not put much effort on her acting.

We have two awkward sex scenes where Ms. Bowie basically is "on top", and that's about it.

In the frat party, we witness guys and girls making out but that's about it on the "Nudity factor".

There are some unintentionally hilarious moments, such as when the couples "freeze" during the frat party. It is similar to the same "technique" used in "Troll 2" (1990).

Nothing interesting to see here. However, I would only recommend this for those who are hungry of "B-movies" and those who are into Troma (who apparently, rescued this mess).

Finally, I made peace and this is for sure, the last time I will interact with this horrendous B-movie curiosity.

The Fabelmans (2022)

Possibly, Spielberg's most feel-good movie.

[8/10 · 19 February 2023]

Spielberg put a lot of heart into "The Fabelmans", his personal "coming of age" story which also demonstrates his homage and love for cinema.

I didn't connect much with the family story, but I enjoyed the message, the performances, the scene where Sammy comments his screening with his bully, and well, David Lynch's cameo that feels like a movie by him.

Anytime David Lynch makes a cameo in a movie that is not from David Lynch, you can't help but cheer or do a standing ovation. We love you, Mr. Lynch.

So, "The Fabelmans" is a feel-good movie which aims for family values, and most of all; the message that "dreams come true".

The Whale (2022)

Self-destruction through Darren Aronofsky's unique vision.

[10/10 · 19 February 2023]

"The Whale" is about family, past mistakes, regret, self-destruction, and redemption.

Darren Aronofsky assembles a touching and visceral experience through his narrative and visual style.

The relationship between the father and daguther is similar to the sub-plot in "The Wrestler" (2008), and the physical and mental deterioration kind of reminds us of "Black Swan" (2010).

Aronofsky is a master when it comes to displaying drama and tension at the same time, and in this occasion; he aims to create an atmosphere where the main character is surrounded by compassion, misery, and hope.

Thus, when the ending comes, it hits you really hard.

Brendon Fraser, Sadie Sink, and Hong Chau; fascinating. We can expect Brandon's Oscar, for sure... You know, Hollywood awards these kind of stories.

The ending is poetic, beautiful, but very sad.

"The Whale" is worth seeing it in the cinema. I have watched most of Aronofsky's films in the asile, and it has always been a pleasant experience.

The Majorettes (1986)

The Prowler meets Rambo with Halloween (1978) esque music?

[6/10 · 19 February 2023]

Weird slasher with not so well written plot twists. However, it is entertaining because you will wonder: "What the heck is going on, and what non-sense situation will happen next?!".

The look and ferocity of the killer reminds me of "The Prowler" (1981), the music is a blatant copy of John Carpenter's score for "Halloween" (1978) (plus some grunts and heavy-breathing that is very similar to Michael Myers).

There's a plot twist that is "Rambo" (1982). Seen to be believed.

Movie is some sort of slasher-action-soap opera.

There are some interesting scenes involvilng well done and suspenseful camera shots, like the girl being observed in the pool.

Gore is decent, characters are not that bad when you consider that this is a mid 80's slasher.

I felt bad for the granny, she seemed to be sweet. And what the heck is about the psycho German nurse?

The "Peeping-Tom" sub-plot is kind of interesting but not enough to make this experience better.

Watch it only if you already saw the best slasher films.

Entertaining enough for slasher gorehounds.

Babylon (I) (2022)

Loud, excessive, dymanic, colorful, dark when it needs to be. Story of hope and decadence with humor in between.

[10/10 · 20 January 2023]

I had the pleasure to attend a press screening (thanks @ParamountMexico), and this time nobody left the room due to the misdeeds of a psychopathic clown (yes, we mean you, Art The Clown).

The three hours and eight minutes of duration go away quickly only if you click on this cinematographic experience, which tells the story of various characters who live the splendor of Hollywood silent cinema, as well as the evolution towards movies with sound.

This is the kind of movie that radically polarizes opinions. However, the prudent thing to give it a try is to stay away from the negative comments that circulate in large numbers. And it is also worth mentioning that if you enjoy the Director's work (with the exception of the script he wrote for "The Last Exorcism Part II", 2013), you will surely enjoy what he has to offer on this occasion.

"Babylon" is loud, excessive, dynamically edited, colorful and dark when it has to be it. It has hope, humor in different forms, decadence, awkward moments, and even a little bit of horror (and not just because of Tobey Maguire's looks).

The music created by Justin Hurwitz is capable of moving you, making your heart beat (even if you resemble the frivolous character of Jean Smart), and will stay in your mind for a long time.

Margot Robbie, simply amazing and addictive, always engaged in the characters she plays; is the soul of this story. We gladly follow her to the bacchanalia, to heaven, and to the underworld. Her introduction scene, her first appearance on a set, and her breakdown at a "posh" event (among others), are already memorable.

Brad Pitt chews his character nicely, while Diego Clava came to Hollywood to stay (no, he's not from Madrid).

The ending is sure to be considered iconic in a few years. Only time will tell.

Thank you Damien Chazelle for making us vibrate and feel alive from a cinema seat, and we agree that what happens on a cinema screen means a lot to millions of people.

Deadstream (2022)

Very entertaining and dark humored found-footage gorefest.

[7/10 · 22 November 2022]

A ghost poet who forces the dead to learn her poems, an egotistical streamer looking for likes, Melanie Stone in a geek-possessed way, gore and humor.

What else do you need?

"Deadstream" is hilarious: A kind of mix "Evil Dead" with "Blair Witch Project".

It also deals with Horror common topics such as evil possession, Electronic-Voice-Recordings, evil incantations, and supernatural entities living in a house, where tragedy occurred many years ago.

Low budget with 🖤.

Among the pleasant surprises of Horror in 2022.

Seriously, Melanie Stone is quickly becoming a familiar face in Horror; the lady is empathetic, charismatic, and so far, I have enjoyed her performances in everything I've seen her in (like "V/H/S 1999".

Mar de fondo (2020)

I liked it. Not the "Before..." Trilogy obviously, but still good.

[7/10 · 16 September 2021]

This movie is about dialogues and contemplating the greatness of the ocean.

Demián Bichir is a fantastic actor and commands every scene he is on. He is relaxed, discusses about his work and even gives the audience some interesting cultural facts about Mexican history (specially Revolution) and World Religion.

His character's life is monotonous, but in one day, he will be subject to different tests that he might want to publish in his next novel.

Bichir and Sasha González have very good chemistry and for some moments you can feel the sexual tension between them; although the best interactions between them happens when they share intimate things about their life.

Daryka seems to be your typical 2000's kid, but she has more depth and secrets that are entertaining to discover.

Not a lolita per se, but still intriguing.

It is a delight to hear the ocean's roar and calmness most of the movie's 82 duration.

Cinematography is very good; specially in (brief) night scenes.

Give it a chance if you are in the mood. Clearly, not for everyone.

It is the kind of movie that you watch for the dialogues and character development.

Sea of Love (1989)

Exciting and multi layered Cop Thriller. Pacino at his best.

[10/10 · 4 March 2017]

I chased down this movie for a while and it did not disappoint me. I truly enjoyed it because it brought Al "The King" Pacino back into business and mainly because it is a damn good Cop-Thriller flick. More in the likes of "Tightrope" (1984), we have the basic plot of a serial-killer on the loose being chased by a Detective who might get in the middle of the killer's motives when he starts an intense romance with a femme fatale.

The events are interesting and the suspense although it is not high, it delivers, and it is aided by splendid humor contributed by the on-screen duo conformed by Pacino and John Goodman; you know, the typical cop buddies.

I really liked the plot and the whole serial killer situation, but what really got into me was the fascinating sexual magnetism between Pacino and Ellen Barkin, who might not be "very pretty" for Hollywood's standards, but she is very attractive and unlikely sexy.

The soundtrack is equally good with a highlight by Tom Waits.

Check this underrated Thriller gem and enjoy Pacino at his best.

I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore (2017)

Brilliant display of black humor, drama, and a very real discourse around common people.

[10/10 · 25 February 2017]

Best indie film I've seen in a while. It demonstrates that Netflix is producing quality films and series plus supporting talented, young film producers at the same time.

Macon Blair demonstrates that he is capable of creating a very clever script filled with intelligent black humor, plenty of thrilling sequences and suspense, as well as dramatic situations that may appeal to some people that might be living "something" similar to Ruth. And that is precisely where Blair becomes brilliant: He makes something really interesting out of ordinary people and completes it with extraordinary atmosphere that makes you feel you are dealing with someone that you know.

Now, I'm not "New" to Macon Blair's work; he starred in Saulnier's magnificent "Blue Ruin", a title that makes honor to the film, and coincidentally enough, perfectly fits to "I Don't..."., because I truly believe it is the "female" version of "Blue Ruin".

Imagine watching a mix between Tarantino and the Coen's brothers with slight references to Horror movies. That's how good this movie is, with Macon Blair's personal touch.

The cast is simply amazing. Melanie Linskey perfectly displays her abilities in comedy and drama. She made me laugh out hard and reminded me in her role as Charlie Sheen's stalker in "Two and a Half Men"; but at the same time made me feel her social suffering and discourse regarding inequity and people "acting like assholes". Her character development is astounding because she becomes more aggressive (in a positive way) and decisive when taking important decisions in daily life.

Elijah Wood played perfectly the post "Anton Yelchin" era character (although I believe Mr. Yelchin was slightly more talented, may he Rest in Peace).

Jave Levy consolidates herself as one of the best indie actresses of her generation and a Scream Queen favorite. I just love how cute she is even when she plays evil.

The Cineatography is beautiful and the soundtrack is simply amazing because it fits perfectly in the movie's actions.

To be honest with you, recently I experienced something similar to Ruthie's character when my car was stolen and I had to start my own private investigation which ended in similar fashion, plus, I also live under the rules of Murphy's Law so, I feel you Mr. Blair!.

Young filmmakers should be inspired by this fantastic piece of celluloid.

Black Belly of the Tarantula (1971)

Intense and atmospheric Giallo. A classic.

[7/10 · 22 August 2015]

One of the best early Gialli that offers the elements all we love from this sub-.genre in all of its glorious fashion. The atmosphere is fantastic and the script keeps you intrigued since the sexy opening.

The death sequences are brutal and insane (all about the acupuncture technique to paralyze victims), and the dark tone of the film is perfectly displayed on screen.

The fantastic performance of the Inspector, played by a very well known actor in this sub-genre, totally carries the weight of the film on his back.

The only problem I find with the movie is the middle section of it, where it gets redundant and almost boring. However, it recovers near the climax.

Die hard fans of the sub-genre will find amusing to notice "someone" really important from another fantastic Giallo, "The House of the Laughing Windows" (1978).

How to Train Your Dragon (2010)

An animated masterpiece that manages to encourage the younger to be better people.

[10/10 · 22 August 2015]

I watched this movie with my grandma three years ago. I chose it because of the positive reviews I came upon before deciding to record it on HBO HD.

I couldn't have chosen a better movie to watch with my favorite person in the world. "How to train your Dragon" is perhaps the most emotional movie for kids in recent times; and the best thing about it, is that it can be enjoyed by adults.

The animation is amazing, breathtaking, cannot say anything better about it. The soundtrack is also flawless as well as the direction.

However, the script is the best feature about it because it constantly evolves and displays a very powerful and positive message for the younger.

The Unauthorized Saved by the Bell Story (2014 TV Movie)

Not bad at all, but lacks a point...

[6/10 · 22 August 2015]

I am aware it is Dustin's version; however, it misses the point on describing the real problems and frictions between the cast. They barely display the character's personalities, hobbies, and their life outside the set, which would be helpful to understand some issues.

Instead, the script focuses on describing things we already knew. I know, it is Dustin's story, but a little more objectivity wouldn't hurt.

The acting is surprisingly good, specially the young man that plays Dustin. The rest of the cast does perfectly their job although it seems they haven't seen the original Saved by the Bell series.

I would definitely recommend this one for fans of the series, like myself. I grew watching this series and became part of my life, so, getting extra information after 22 years was a good nostalgic touch, although I expected to see more of the "private" details.

Lost Boy (2015 TV Movie)

Does not deliver expectations...

[4/10 · 22 August 2015]

Well, the premise is very interesting and makes you think about many possibilities regarding the "lost boy" character.

To be honest with you, I only watched it for morbid curiosity; I mean, I expected the "lost boy" to terrorize the family in unlike ways, not in the likes of "Saw", but, situations like in "The Hand that Rocks the Craddle" (1992). However, the situations are very lame and soon you lose empathy towards the main character.

The script is very weak and never fully explains the origin of the lost boy or who really "took him" when he was an infant.

Virginia Madsen is fantastic as always and her portrayal of a mother that cannot cope with the lose of a son but keeps the hope for many years is perfect.

Watch it only if it airs at 2:00 a.m.

Sugar Daddies (2014)

Just what you expect.

[6/10 · 22 August 2015]

Well I got more than expected from this one. I caught it on t.v. at around 3:00 a.m. and I had a good time because the pace is smooth, there are plenty of sexy moments, interesting facts about real life sugar daddies, and how some young women would do anything to live like the rich.

The script is pretty straight forward but the twist regarding a murder raised the intensity of the pace so the audience can be really interested.

Taylor Gildersleeve is a very good actress and her performance is the highlight of the movie. She's sexy, looks vulnerable, and at some point, she's brave. Thank you Ms. Gildersleeve for wearing those short and skimpy outfits :)

Almost Thirty (2014)

Refreshing.

[8/10 · 22 August 2015]

To be honest with you, fellow IMDb reviewers; I had low expectations towards "Casi Treinta" because of its cast, its marketing campaign, and because it forms part of a brand new style in Mexican cinema that focuses more on being entertaining rather than presenting a quality story and important production values.

Well, I got what expected but was a bit surprised to find that there was some depth meaning in the story.

While some scenes can be taken out from any Mexican soap opera or even any party with your friends; it manages to show its point regarding having almost thirty years old and not living the life you want, but living the life of someone else.

Some of the scenes may seem superficial and not that well acted, but, it is part of the atmosphere and situation in Sonora, in the North of México.

The cast was very good as well as the music. The Direction is just standard, pretty much "point-and-click"; and the cinematography is gorgeous.

Give it a try for two reasons: 1) You are in your early 30's like me and you may feel related with some of the characters.

2) You want to have mindless fun with this new wave of Mexican cinema.

Blue Valentine (2010)

Possibly the most realistic "romantic" film.

[9/10 · 7 February 2015]

The realistic relationship between the starring couple is what makes this movie an excellent display of mature relationships of young couples.

It treats topics as work life, resentment, frustration, and the always polemic "what would if...?" relevant moments in someone's life.

The chemistry between Michelle Williams and Ryan Gosling is magnetic. Both actors demonstrate why they are amongst the best actors of their generation.

You may relate to this movie so beware because the experience is not positive at all. However, it should be a wake up call for troubled couples.

Dressed to Kill (1980)

The most American-Giallo. Stylish, sexual, violent, and inventive.

[8/10 · 7 February 2015]

Fantastic entry in the Giallo sub-genre from Director De Palma who knows perfectly his references, mainly Dario Argento, although he has denied to being influenced by the Italian maestro.

This film is very sexual, violent, and creative in terms of plot. It also features plenty of humor courtesy of the young son of one of the killer's victims because of his investigation techniques (ahead of their time).

The acting is stellar, the plot very intriguing, and the gore is fantastic although is only present in one scene. Dario Argent should be proud of the elevator scene.

A great addition to the Giallo sub-genre.

My Sucky Teen Romance (2011)

Good for a young audience who may want to get into the Horror genre.

[5/10 · 7 February 2015]

I had the chance to watch this flick during a hot Saturday afternoon in London, in a floating cinema (2013) and I had a good time for two reasons:

-The film is directed by a young and smart teenage girl who has seen many vampire movies. -I could ask her a question through a Skype interview. She told me she was influenced by classic vampire movies such as The Lost Boys and mostly Near Dark. That is a plus because clearly she knows her references very well.

The gore is minimum but very well done and you can say that she likes blood in her stories.

I give it a 5 because it is a naive film oriented for a young audience.

Let's keep an eye to this girl, she may do good things for our genre in the near future.

Fright Night 2 (2013 Video)

Call Peter Vincent! We have an emergency.

[2/10 · 7 February 2015]

The worst horror movie of 2013.

Let's get things straight. How could you remake a remake and expect it to be good? "Fright Night 2" remakes the 2011 remake and tries to add a new sub-plot that fails miserably because it reminds us (the die hard fans) of the plot of the 1988 sequel to the 1985 classic.

Therefore, you can guess the outcome of this one... Oh, it's bad. The cast is atrocious except for the super sexy Jaime Murray who delivers an extremely sexy scene where she is in lingerie and making out with another woman. That alone, worths your money ;)

I could not stand the new Charlie or Peter Vincent, but Evil Ed steals the show as the worst character in the franchise.

The settings are nice because the Director shows the beauty of Bucarest, which is an amazing place (also known as the Little Paris) and some interesting settings near the ending.

However, the Direct to Video production values are very poor and you can say this is almost a student film.

Avoid it at all costs. It damaged the reputation of our beloved franchise.

Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954)

Plenty of fun!

[8/10 · 7 February 2015]

Ahead of it's time Classic Monster movie. I came to appreciate this movie after a 2013 London showing in some sort of drive-in in the middle of the river.

It was a fantastic experience because the movie is campy and offers plenty of black humor situations mainly created by the presence of the creature, who may be ahead of its time.

The settings are well done, the whole experience in the boat is tense, and the Creature is awesome looking!

The lead female character is extremely sexy and loves to show off her legs plus she looks like Jennifer Connelly, which is a good thing ;)

The campy situations and the nerve-tensing music may damage the experience but it is a fun experience nevertheless.

The Lincoln Lawyer (2011)

Excellent and realistic lawyer movie.

[8/10 · 7 February 2015]

Myself, as a lawyer, can relate to the moral arguments and non-lawful "techniques" displayed in the movie. That is the reason why I believe the plot is very complete in terms of legal concepts, situations, and most importantly (the reason of the movie), because of the interesting story behind it.

The acting is great, the Direction perfectly creates a courtroom drama without being dull, the humor is well-welcomed and the score also works very well.

If you are a lawyer give this movie a chance in order to relate to the moral situations of its protagonist and also because it offers an interesting perspective on the "main" situation.

Plus the twists even if they are very Hollywood, are damn well done.

The Room (2003)

Cult movie for the wrong reasons.

[1/10 · 7 February 2015]

Oh, I had a hard time giving it a 1, however, the movie is incompetent in the production aspect as well as the plot, acting, score... Well, you get the idea.

I found about "The Room" in the Prince Charles Cinema in London because the place has a big poster of it. Then, curiosity became obsession and I did research about everything that had to do it. No curiosity, maybe, morbid intentions.

It is laughable for the wrong reasons but it is cult entertainment for sure. It made me roar in laughter and could not believe how bad was it.

So, you may wanna give it a chance in order to witness that what people say about it, is REAL!

Tommy Wiseau may be an underestimated genius for scenes such as the rooftop scene, the fight during a party, the tedious love scenes, ail of Danny's participations, and more... Oh well, THIS IS a true cult movie.

A Cat in the Brain (1990)

Denigrating, atrocious, extremely violent... Exquisite. Fulci's tribute to Fulci!

[7/10 · 5 January 2013]

It is Dr. Lucio Fulci's party and we are all invited! In approximately 90 minutes, we are bombed with extremely gory and violent situations involving mutilations, brutal beatings, beheadings, slashed throats, exposed guts, vulgar language, etc. There is even a very weird moment from a musical film where a woman is bitch slapped without mercy while she sings!

Fulci's psychiatrist's smile is one of the most frightening things I've seen in a while!

This is a bizarre movie. It is brutal, filled with blood, and misogynistic. It is a tribute from Fulci to himself. Hey, even at the ending he drives a boat while accompanied by a very sexy Italian chick in a bikini.

Sadly, it is a very flawed film. The plot is absurd but in my opinion it inspired Wes Craven's "New Nightmare" (however, Ze do Caixao A.K.A. Coffin Joe used it on "O Exorcism Negro" from 1974).

The editing is horrible. The music is lousy. The acting sucks! Fulci may be the best actor in the whole film.

But it is very entertaining for gorehounds. It's extremely violent content should please those who hail Fulci like me.

Zombie (1979)

Fulci's other masterpiece that revolutionized Zombie-Cinema.

[10/10 · 5 January 2013]

George A. Romero created the modern conception for zombies. However, Fulci created the scariest zombies. I am talking about rotten corpses that suck human blood.

"Zombi 2" is all about an eerie atmosphere, spectacular action sequences (the shootout and fire inside the church is epic), bizarre moments (zombie vs shark anyone?), brutal & gory death sequences (wood in the eye, ouch!), plus tension and nerve tensing moments.

This is one of Fulci's masterpieces. It offers everything a zombie cinema fan asks for. In my opinion, this is the definite zombie film because it has the perfect amount of gore, scare factor, atmosphere, and zombies.

Sure, it is not a perfect film. In fact, it has many flaws such as stupid decisions by some characters, lousy dialog, and random sequences. But we can ignore these elements because the whole time there is a fear of death. This island reeks of death.

"Dead Island", "Resident Evil", and many generic films owe a lot to Mr. Fulci's unique vision towards Horror.

The Apocalyptic ending is scary alone and is material for nightmares.

Don't Torture a Duckling (1972)

Haunting, intriguing, poetic. Fulci's Giallo masterpiece.

[10/10 · 5 January 2013]

My first reaction after watching the ending was a standing ovation. This is a fantastic Giallo tale of murder, mystery, and obscure traditions inside a little town that is not everything it seems.

The plot surrounds the death of three infants. There are many suspects but the truth is horrifying. It is up to a news reporter and an impressively gorgeous woman to discover who is behind this atrocious murders in a town that hides more than a dark secret.

Lucio Fulci has an unfair reputation as a Director of bad taste. OK, he has done many brutal and extremely gore flicks but he has also produced extraordinary Gialli and other memorable films.

This film is in my opinion his true masterpiece. The atmosphere is eerie, you can feel you are wandering the town that is afraid of the night. The story is very interesting and thrilling. Also, it is ahead of it's time when displaying taboos such as pedophilia. The acting is surprisingly good. Florinda Bolkan and Barbara Bouchet shine with their roles. Fulci's Direction is solid and demonstrates his peculiar vision towards Horror.

There are many memorable moments such as the shocking cemetery murder while Heavy Metal plays in the background, the disturbing yet poetic ending, and many more.

This is on the top 5 Gialli ever. I don't want to spoil it because it is an experience that any Horror movie fan should live. It demonstrates that Mr. Fulci did know a lot about Horror and style. His name deserves more recognition among the pantheon of the best Horror Directors.

P.S. Barbara Bouchet is possibly the hottest actress ever to appear in a Giallo. Just look at her amazing nude body and her sexy mini skirts.