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julzmusic
My name is Julia Eppingstall & I am 24 years old from Sydney in Australia!
I am a singer/songwriter - aspiring to be an actress in the near future.
As far as movies go, horror is definitely my favourite genre (Supernatural horror at that) - I have an inbuilt fear of many things surrounding the 'uncanny valley' therefore clowns/dolls/dummys etc. definitely have a lot of success with me as far as 'creep' factor goes. I also love my disney movies!
Happy to sit down and watch any genre and find myself discussing and reviewing all the time so thought I better get more involved with the IMDB community.
www.starnow.com/julzeppingstall
Twitter: @Julzmusic
www.soundcloud.com/julia-eppingstall
www.youtube.com/julzmusic
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Talk to Me (2022)
Excellent original film - well written & relatable
I'm actually more upset that I didn't see this at the movies because it was such a well written film, I did see it on Netflix.
The characters were relatable (I may be bias as an Aussie), the tropes were well captured. The horror element probably wasn't as intense as some may expect, but I think there was an adequate mix of 'supernatural' mixed with 'shock' to make it fair really well within the genre.
Something that I thoroughly appreciated was that each character was so developed enough that you felt their backstory in a really clean way. The movie seldom felt 'forced' and this is super refreshing for movies in general.
I rated it so high because unlike so many Hollywood horrors, you felt a sense of realism with every inch of this story. Well done to the writers and directors.
Insidious: The Red Door (2023)
The story was 'told' not shown
I loved the Insidious franchise, even the later ones still had depth however this one felt like an absolute derailment.
Each character seemed to have a complexity that they came with and we were hand-held to understand why (this may have been in one statement or across the entire movie) so therefore we were 'told' but didn't get the chance to see the development. Therefore none of the characters connected with each other, they simply existed.
It's not in any capacity a memorable movie & though they bring in characters from the previous films, it's done in a way that feels like they're 'have to have' cameos without actually adding any substance to the storyline.
In terms of scares, you know who it is, where it's happening and when - almost verbatim. I wish I could have loved this final movie but unfortunately it didn't seem to have the authenticity of the first few.
Barbarian (2022)
A novel 3 part journey
I found this movie to be quite unique in its distinct 3 part segmentation. The first part of the movie was the most suspenseful and left you feeling curious, the acting and dynamic between the leads was definitely something that kept you intrigued - great storyline on its own.
The second part took on a completely new life & world, and credit to the film it did a really good job of effectively starting up a new movie mid-way through. You got character backstory/context very quickly but it didn't feel unnatural in its own realm. Good enough storyline but the set up of whether you love or loathe the character is pretty much set in stone for the viewer, so it left little to the imagination.
The third section, was where I got nervous, questioning how they were going to successfully cover off on newly introduced character arcs that actually seem so integral to the movie (and probably could have benefited from playing out earlier). This third chapter was undoubtedly the weakest link in the movie as they crammed many themes in that could have otherwise, been carefully unpacked throughout.
I understand the low ratings especially due to the ending but I understand the higher ratings based on the overall entertainment value and unique structure to the film. There was some solid acting throughout & I'm sure that at least the first segment will inspire some further movies like this in this genre which is exciting.
Pieces of Her (2022)
Tolerable concept with intolerable characters
This series has certainly been intriguing enough from a plot perspective to keep you involved beyond episode 1 or maybe 2 - IF you can stand the main characters.
*Finishing episode 6 at time of review*
The story follows a young girl who, after witnessing her mums 'unprecedented reaction to' & 'subsequent happenings after' a local shooting, begins to unravel her mother's questionable history, family & relationships.
The concept in itself is completely manageable. Sadly, there are absolutely no redeeming main characters.
The daughter consistently makes horrid decisions & cries foul at every given opportunity. Toni Collette is a brilliant actress, though, even her character is hard to feel anything for, again with her lack of ability to take accountability.
Surely the script writer knew that 7/10 characters at minimum were going to irritate the audience & sadly the 3 that likely don't - are given the least screen time + bullied by the main female characters.
Again, this had a lot of potential but kudos to anyone who sticks with the storyline hoping the characters show redemption, even when there are glimpses, there is a trend for that same character to ruin it 10 minutes later.
The Empty Man (2020)
Unique Horror with a good script
I quite enjoyed this film, I found it to be a bit Shutter Island 'esque' regarding the consistent need for one to question reality. The jump scares were relatively minimal & the actual horror element was more subtle than we often see which is a nice change. Another great change is to see a pretty well written script, none of the characters were intolerable & I actually thought that 20min intro that many others complain about was one of the best and most unique elements to this film.
In a way it was sort of like a game, think 'Until Dawn' where you see this entire backstory, then the game in and of itself only slightly references back to it, but it's still something you're happy to have seen.
The only criticism I do have, ironically is when the 'subtle horror' tried to switch to 'gory unsubtle horror', that definitely works in some movies but I think did a disservice in this movie.
Other than that, would recommend if you're into a more psychological/crime thriller/horror as opposed to 'jump scare' or 'hacker/gore' horror.
A Quiet Place Part II (2020)
Missing purpose & suspense
Similar to the first film, A Quiet Place 2 tries to offer suspense by having characters do ridiculously questionable (stupid) things when there would have been a smarter alternative. Watching the 'pitch meeting' for the first movie will decently highlight some of the holes that are equally present in the sequel.
I must admit the characters overall were more likeable in this movie and 'some' of them have a broader purpose to their movements.
That being said it opened up a few plot-lines that were never resolved and equally had characters getting emotional OR acting on things for no apparent reason.
Very similar to the first movie in terms of utilising the same movie tactics, just with less conviction being that they'd already been used before. As per other people's reviews, the first 10 mins of the film offered as a flashback was most certainly the most engaging part.
Cinderella (2021)
Thoroughly enjoyed the humour, music & messaging
As someone who grew up enjoying the likes of camp rock & high school musical, this wasn't too dissimilar musically or from a choreography perspective. I thought even though there was a bit of an agenda in it (which others in the comment section cannot seem to move on from) it came on a little strong at the start and was softened by wit & good character development. Good fun movie to watch with the kids & enjoy the revised interpretation of some songs we're all familiar with!
Nomadland (2020)
Completely overrated - nothing redeeming
I really wanted to give this a chance but there was absolutely nothing redeeming about this film, not one character, or plot line.
I'm shocked and curious about how this has good reviews.
The Prom (2020)
Light hearted & bedazzling
As someone who grew up loving the high school musical franchise this certainly has elements that are similar which is likely why it was a fun and easy watch.
The acting was definitely a little 'over the top' at times however it's not like they tried to hide it, it's typically over-theatrical but super enjoyable non-the-less & if you look at it that way, it's going to be a good watch.
I really enjoyed the music though do agree with other reviewers, some of the songs started to sound the same however I feel like that was intentional so they could seamlessly blend songs together if/when required, ie: adding in reprisals of previous songs into new songs.
Nicole Kidman's character I felt was a little under-utilised but her role was still integral in a more subtle way compared to the likes of Meryl and James Corden's characters.
All in all, really pleasant and great to take your mind off some things that are going on in the world, whilst tackling some important issues at a top line level.
Haunt (2019)
It kept me intrigued yet failed to deliver
Haunt is one of those movies that does seem to keep you watching, yet everything you hope would resolve into something bigger and better never occurs.
There were so many implied themes, IE: The main character Harper could have a connection to the house, as they unpack her traumatising past they fail to link it back to any relevance within what's actually playing out. The people at the house could have a deeper purpose for being there, yet, again they don't - they're just a means to an end so the story can exist without needing to actually delve into a story.
The acting was quite good, it's a horror movie where you might actually find yourself not hating the characters and judging them on their blatantly stupid decisions (though all of the opportunities are there) & if you're after a bit of gore factor which you find in many of Eli's projects then this should be fine to satisfy your expectations. I just feel like there were too many plot holes and for a movie that's covering an exceptionally well-covered topic 'haunted houses at Halloween' it didn't offer anything new, creative or intriguing from a plot perspective.
Don't Let Go (2019)
Decently captivating yet predictable
I was definitely captivated by this movie, the shots were done well, the acting was decent on all accounts and the concept in and of itself was definitely well worth exploring. That being said it felt like an episode of Scooby Doo (not ratting on Scooby in any case here) but it was blatantly obvious who the 'bad guy behind the mask' figuratively speaking, was from the very beginning.
For all of the depth and twists this movie could have capitalised on, it tried but hit a predictable mark in the end. Still it's a decent watch, yet don't expect anything ground breaking when it could have been.
Don't F**k with Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer (2019)
Thrilling to watch - important to watch...
I've seen a lot of reviews on here where they endeavour to sleuth out further details that weren't covered (plot holes) in this series - IE: who was holding the camera, who was the other hand involved, why don't we have ALL of the answers...
I think if you seek out those plot holes you're seeking out to discredit the point of this series - which was that, the power of the internet and inexperienced researches can be both advantageous and destructive, but that's the reality of the world we live in. The power of the law can only extend so far & through combined efforts (albeit frustrating at times) everything has to be executed within the laws of the jurisdiction.
Does this documentary tell us everything? No, is this documentary captivating enough to make us aware? Yes.
I think the filming was brilliant, it kept you on the emotional ride the entire way through & everyone that was involved came to the same conclusion, yet it still worked you through the horrific maze of the perpetrator. One of the best things I've watched on Netflix that covers off the influence of social media justice and sleuthing, if and when it's done right, however it always covers how it could be done wrong.
Rattlesnake (2019)
The road to nowhere
I would love to have enjoyed this film but there were one too many plot holes, almost every venture lead to no definitive outcome & scares/confronting vision is literally thrown in as an after-thought. In fairness I was captivated enough to stay awake for this & I was confused enough by the amount of directions this movie took - again, not a sign of an enjoyable experience.
Dominion (2018)
Confronting, compelling & life changing
I knew what I was getting myself in to, but how does one really prepare for the visual trauma they're about to inflict upon themselves? In reality, you just can't... Dominion was a harrowing look in to the reality of what happens across multiple industries that rely on animals for profit. Covering 'companion animals', 'wildlife', 'scientific research', 'entertainment', 'clothing' and 'food with highly confronting footage & compelling facts.
This movie gives us insight in to what happens behind the closed & protected doors of some of our biggest Australian industries. One of the arguments against shocking animal footage often expressed online is that 'This isn't from Australia so it's not relevant', Dominion is here to address that argument & it does so in an exceptionally well produced manner.
Must watch, it IS traumatising, there is a reason why this is MA15+ but I would not hesitate to recommend this to everyone, you have been warned but your life, the environment and the decisions that you make going forward will be better for it.
The Belko Experiment (2016)
Asks a lot of good questions, lacks in answers
I've been looking forward to this movie, I wasn't so disappointed by the overall concept, but the execution left a lot to be desired. This movie aims to tackle morality, what is good and what is bad and whose life is worth more. It reminds me of the Stanford Prison Experiment which we briefly covered in psychology - what do people do and how do they change if they're put in a position of power. Unpacking that psychology was interesting in the movie but I feel like we never get close enough to any of the characters to really care & there is a lot of 'convenient' killing for the sake of not having to do that deep dive that the topic asks for. It's a pretty gorey and blunt film that begs the question but fails to answer. Acting was decent enough, would I recommend it? Probably not, it shows us things we already know and expect but fails to provide any logic or reasoning, or offer any alternative perspective.
Wyrmwood (2014)
Great concepts not so perfectly executed
It was quite refreshing to hear some timely scripted Australian humour coming through in this movie however the storyline development and blunt eradication of some key characters had me feeling genre confused!
The concept of a zombie apocalypse is one we have seen numerous times before. Wyrmwood tackled this with elements of humour, combined with a decent amount of gore as well as a surprising element of drama. This concoction of genres worked well for this film to a certain extent, however too many times in this movie, humorous scenes were followed by soul- searching depressing scenes and I felt that the vibe of the movie as a whole was never really consistent.
We quickly understand that there are two stories being portrayed, one of those who are struggling survivors and one of those who see's the lead female character being held hostage for what appears to be government experiments. We understand what is happening in both stories, however I feel like the back-story surrounding the female lead and the government officials was left completely underdeveloped. Though we could visually appreciate what was being delivered, we never learnt why or by who and therefore could never fully reason with what half of the film was actually trying to depict. Unfortunately the last piece of this film revolves around that second storyline and the government officials and with absolutely no back-story we were left wondering why what was happening, was actually happening.
For a zombie film, maybe viewers don't question things like that. Perhaps the element of uncertainty was exactly what the producers were trying to harness - the depiction of authority as being secretive and evil without reason was quite possibly a brilliant way of highlighting what reality could be like if such an outbreak were to occur. It is for this possibility and element of 'uncertainty' that I really do commend the film if that was what they were going for - though for me, I really do like backstories to be divulged by the end of the film.
The gore and special effects in this movie must also be commended as they were done extremely well, nothing was left to the imagination in this department which will please many viewers set out on seeing the next Zombie film.
I give this movie a 5/10 it was VERY enjoyable and I would recommend it, however personally it was missing some key elements.
It (1990)
An Adaptation - Great For It's Time
I wouldn't assume that 'Coulrophobia' is innate within people, not a fear that one has lying dormant waiting for your first ever visit to the circus before it strikes you down. Though I always had a fear of them, and couldn't think of a traumatic childhood experience or even negative depiction of a clown from memory that could have inspired this fear.
I then recall my sister telling me that she spotted a movie when she was 8 years old through the door which was slightly ajar - a clown, a murderous, terrifying clown being the main character. Her fear from this moment influenced my beliefs growing up - though when it finally came time for me to experience this FEAR that had been so driven from this movie - I was, dare I say - not moved.
Important things to note is that I have not read the book adaptation (though I did buy it with full intention to read it). Also it would be worth pointing out that this was the first 'Stephen King' movie I have ever seen so some of the bizarre and completely unexplained occurrences that do arise during the movie - just left me with the term 'interesting' as apposed to 'scared'.
It's also worth noting that as I didn't watch this movie until 2008, other movies with improved graphics/detail had more or less desensitized me from the 'fear' this movie was intended to provoke.
I gave this move a 6 because I appreciate that for its time & for it's blatant effect on my sisters view of clowns it is obviously a great movie (I noticed another review referenced it to the book saying it was a good adaptation - which - is hard to come by now-a-days). However for me unfortunately I probably didn't get the thrill from it that so many people have before me.
I still detest clowns.