ruthiempowell Reviews

Damsel (2024)

Green screen and panting.

[5/10 · 27 April 2024]

Everyone in this film has a different accent. That's the first thing I noticed. The second obvious thing is that the whole film is done on green screen. Must've had a very limited budget. It's actually painful to watch once you notice the green screen. Then once she's in the cave the relentless panting starts, groaning, whimpering, moaning, (yes you know what it sounds like), I mean if you were hiding from a dragon in a cave you'd definitely want to make noises everytime you move. Then she does a lot of head back, mouth open, letting stuff drip into her face and mouth scenes. (again, we know what it looks like) so teenage boys will Love this film and probably watch it alone in their bedrooms. On top of the green screen, the incoherent choice of actors and the smut, you have a speaking dragon and the oh so obvious ending.

This is something you'll watch once, laugh at and then forget.

Enjoy.

Stutz (2022)

So insightful and relatable.

[10/10 · 17 April 2024]

I had no clue what to expect watching this in bed last night, I couldn't sleep and it caught my eye. I wasn't sure it would be helpful or interesting. However, it was so good. It taught me so much. It is full is coping mechanisms and ways of dealing with your life when you struggle due to past traumas. I could relate so much to what was discussed and I had so many a-ha moments throughout on how I can improve my life and cope better. I think I will watch it again and this time take notes. It was like a therapy course in one documentary. I want to put everything I was taught into practice and implement the strategies so I too can feel better about being alive. The relationship between the two of them was beautiful to witness too. This documentary moved me. It is potentially life changing once you fully grasp the steps being taught. Thank you for making this. Thank you to you both.

The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe (1988)

Fills my heart with love and happiness

[10/10 · 15 April 2024]

I watched this as a child in the 90s on the BBC after school, I remember being captivated sitting cross legged looking up at the TV. I couldn't wait for the next episode. It was so mesmerising and took my imagination to the same level as my favourite Disney classics. I adored the characters, it was such an adventure. I got all films on VHS. Then in my 20s I got all of them on the DVD boxset. Now in my late 30s I still watch it. LOL. It's on YouTube so I watch it that way. It still makes me so happy. It's like a hug from an old friend. The music is one of the most beautiful scores of music I've ever heard. I want the music at my funeral.

Shane Gillis: Live in Austin (2021 TV Special)

Had me continuously laughing...

[9/10 · 30 December 2023]

It's rare for a stand up to have me constantly laughing. But this guy is just my exact sense of humour. Seen him randomly on youtube shorts then because I liked his humour so much I searched for him on YouTube and found this stand up set. Even when I was poorly lying in bed in the dark this guy had me laughing so much I had to pause it to cough. I've got the flu. Haven't laughed in ages. This is so so so funny. Honestly.. Wish I could see him live. I hope he comes to the UK one day. Please do a UK tour. I'd love to see you live Shane. Watched Ricky Gervais's latest stand up on Netflix two days ago and thought it was absolutely horrendous, it was so bad.... After watching this gem, I'm reminded what an actually funny comedian is. Thank you. Thoroughly recommend. Very good. Great work. Bravo. Going to watch your other one on Netflix tonight. Excited.

Ricky Gervais: Armageddon (2023 TV Special)

Definition of thirsty...

[1/10 · 27 December 2023]

I laughed about 4 times. But the whole point of this show was to offend and 90% of it wasn't funny. Offensive jokes are fine as long as the jokes are funny. But he went on for far too long about abusing children.... And disabled children.... and dying children.... It was really painful to watch. Then to compensate for this yawn fest he follows it up with don't worry it's only satire and I'm so edgy... and we have to laugh to get through hard times...which doesn't even make sense. So Embarrassing. There is so much situation comedy available and he chose to go on about abusing kids and dying kids FAR too much. It wasn't remotely funny. Successful comedians can allude to such things and have much bigger laughs than going into cringe detail and being so pathetic in the process. If he wasn't talking about child abusers and dying kids he was jumping on the I'm so antiwoke bandwagon which again is overdone. To be a Ricky fan you're already antiwoke but to try and come across like it's so cool and pointing out things that were funny in 5 years ago was lazy. Genders, being easily offended, illegal immigrants blah blah. Done a million times. All in all it was pretty poor and he needs to have a long hard think before he does another tour. New material is DESPERATELY needed Ricky!!!

Leave the World Behind (2023)

Interesting but nothing special.

[5/10 · 10 December 2023]

This is a weird trip. Lots of second guessing and your imagination is probably better than what actually happens. Not much. Stella cast of actors holds this film together. Had it been unknown actors it would've been a flop and would've been seen for what it truly is instead of what we make it into because of the cast. It takes aspects of other films and puts them all together in a way that keeps you just and so engaged but it is weak. This is average at best. Let's be honest. More confusing than scary. More frustrating than interesting. Also, Don't know why Bacon bothered taking that part. It was a pointless character. Netflix must've thrown lots of money at the A listers in order to get them to agree to do it. It could've been so much better. But it wasn't. Worth seeing? Yes. Will you remember it? No. Oh and the casual racism towards white people went unchecked. Also, the random nod to climate change in the cabin which had no place in the film was so forced. SMH. In fact thinking about it. It was pretty rubbish. I enjoyed the popcorn I ate while I watched it more. Also, also, those CGI flamingos and deer were absolutely SHOCKING.

Talk to Me (I) (2022)

Oh Come On!?! SMH.

[5/10 · 3 November 2023]

Seeing the reviews I was so excited thinking this was going to be a great horror film. Well, you can all have a day off! The reviews here must be written by a bunch of naive 15 year olds or review farms. That's the only realistic conclusion. It is extremely mediocre. 5 at best. It's full of stolen over done ideas and imagery and has a clumsy storyline. What a disappointment. I can imagine if you're a kid this will be scary but if you're seasoned in horror films you'll be as underwhelmed as I was. It's nowhere near a 6 or 7. It's an average made for teens horror film. Frankly, it's not even worth seeing.

Les Misérables (2012)

The music touches my soul.

[9/10 · 22 October 2023]

I rarely cry but the storyline and music from this musical make me cry so much. I first saw this in London when I was 11. It made me cry then and still moves me to this day. I dreamed a dream breaks my heart everytime I hear it. Victor Hugo was so amazing. Wrote some incredible stories, two of which are my favourite of all time. I didn't think I would like the film adaptation. It took me to 2023 to watch it when it came out in 2012. I was scared they'd butcher it. Yet to my surprise it was excellent. Wish I'd watched it sooner now. It will never be as good as the west end show because hearing and seeing it all live is an experience like no other. However the film is brilliant.

Mr Inbetween (2018–2021)

OMG. WHAT!?

[9/10 · 20 October 2023]

Binged this in two days. Got mad regrets now. Wish I'd spread it out. I've got withdrawal already.

What. A. Show. I don't wanna spoil it for you so I won't go into detail but it has that sweet spot of serious and humour that makes it so enjoyable. It'll make you laugh out loud and fall in love with the characters and makes you cry.

It is absolutely spot on. Wish they'd made more series. But they were right to leave us wanting more instead of dragging it out and making it lose it's authenticity.

Just try not to binge it because once it's over it's over and you'll be glad you spread it out so you can savour it.

It's Seriously good.

Enjoy!

Mr. Mercedes (2017–2019)

ONLY watch Season One.

[8/10 · 16 October 2023]

Randomly saw this featured on Disney plus and read some reviews and gave it a go. Watched the first season in 2 days. It was FANTASTIC. It should come with trigger warnings though. The CSA incest stuff was so Dark!! Had no idea about that aspect and it is really shocking and gross to watch but it makes you understand Brady better. And how he turned into the man he is. If they just did one season of this it would've been a cult classic. I started season two not knowing how it would go considering he has been caught and it was all over. But thought I would give it a shot anyway, and OMG, it is a completely different genre. Goes into mind control sci-fi. So random and absolutely ruins it. Had it been a different show entirely then that would've been absolutely fine but to follow it on with the same actors same characters and then throw in supernatural ridiculousness was just too much. Had to stop watching it by episode two of the second season. It sort of ruined it for me. This wasn't the x files it was a genuine gritty crime drama... I love the x files don't get me wrong but not the overlap. It makes absolutely no sense. How the actors agreed to continue knowing fans wouldn't like it shocks me. Guess it must've been the money. Seriously, the first season is amazing. But don't bother watching anymore. Just don't. Ruins it.

Accused (2023)

The Dangers of Gossip.

[5/10 · 24 September 2023]

I don't normally shout at my TV when watching a film but, man, this film had me in hypertension. So frustrating. Why didn't he call for the police as soon as he knew they were at his home!? Why didn't he go upstairs WITH HIS dog and lock themselves in the bathroom and call 999 as soon as he saw them spray painting the security cameras!? Can't believe he let his dog get killed. I would die for my dog. Why didn't he get his dog and go out in one of the two cars on his drive once he knew they were coming for him!? Playing hide and seek with two deranged murdering morons in your home isn't fun. So many flaws. I guess if he did anything logical like what I've suggested the film would've been half as long. So they needed to do the whole cat and mouse thing. But don't watch it before bed especially if you love dogs. Because you'll be be running on pure cortisol with a headache. Ending up on the roof slipping into the convenient swimming pool and running through the woods and ending up at his neighbours..... And sitting down and explaining the situation to her INSTEAD OF CALLING THE POLICE.... I can't take anymore. It's so drawn out and ridiculous. They literally have a cup of tea. Then the MSM announce it's him on the radio... By name... Which would never happen. Then she rats him out by flashing lights.... Then a bit more frustrating cat and mouse and the predicable ending ensues. Yawn.... All I can think about through it all is that his poor dog got needlessly killed. And the fact he still hasn't called THE F police... SMH.

KMT.

FFS.

Mirage (2018)

Literally gobsmacked.

[9/10 · 2 September 2023]

Wow!!! This film is a trip!!! It's so freaking good. I can't say too much because I don't want to spoil the incredible story. Just finished watching it and felt compelled to write a review straight away. It's a thriller, it's a love story, it's sci-fi, it's multilayered, it's just incredible. Blows your average film out of the water. If you can't manage reading subtitles you can watch it dubbed. So no excuses. Watch it and find out why everyone is so crazy about it. I would've happily had it be another 30 minutes long so we could see the ending truly unfold but I guess it is obvious what happens next. Awww!!

It's excellent!

Dragged Across Concrete (2018)

Shockingly Good.

[8/10 · 27 August 2023]

I haven't stopped thinking about this film since I watched it randomly the other week on Netflix. I had skim read reviews on here prior and saw lots complaining about the length and how slow it was. However, I thought I'd make my own mind up. I found the pace really authentic. The character development was brilliant. At first I did find the constant unnatural one liner back and forth dialogue between the two protagonists forced. But it is forgotten by the brilliant storyline. This film really takes you on a trip, it'll make you feel all sorts of emotions which is what makes a good film in my opinion. This film turned out to be one of the best films I've seen in years. And it will be one I watch again. I think the issues with length and taking offense from the film are generational. And that's reflected in the reviews. Definitely.

Old (2021)

Really pervy vibes.

[1/10 · 26 May 2023]

This film was directed by a pervert. From the start there are Half naked children. Unnecessary sustained footage of their bodies. Choice of swimwear is deliberate. What a pointless film. Acting is so bad. Story is so obvious. No character investment. Vacuous rubbish carried by lots of half naked bouncy chests, groin shots; grim. Just constant pervy vibes and sexual undertones. Inappropriate touching and really cringy scenes. The adults cover up yet the children stay uncovered. The whole thing gave me the creeps. The conversations between the adults trying to workout What's happening in their pseudo intelligent deliberate occupations to fit the story. Blah. The toddler ending up pregnant. The children aging in their bodies but not in their minds. All so perverted. The whole film is just grim.

Without Sin (2022)

That Wig Though!?!

[6/10 · 17 May 2023]

Interesting story. The usual. Wrong guy. Predators. People playing detective. Plot twists. Plot holes. Revenge. Misguided loyalties. Retribution. Struck by an ornament. Justice. Blah. Etc. Etc. But all I saw was that WIG. And that hat. Very distracting. Why couldn't she have had short hair. The short hair she had when her life was ok. Does a blonde bob equal a success hottie and a mousey shoulder length wig equals a depressed stoner... Doesn't make sense and adds nothing to the programme apart from a very distracting wig and beanies. Have I mentioned the wig?

But, seriously though, I can't get past that awful wig, it's so bad she has to spend the entire series wearing a hat to cover up the join, apart from when she has sex, oh and sits on a sofa, oh and loses it at the end, (they must've used gorilla glue for that part.) I think they must've got the wig off Ebay or maybe from Shein... Not sure but it ruined it for me. And it's so obviously a wig. I found the wig very distracting. If you watched it and didn't notice or get annoyed by the wig then you should be more wig aware. Oh and the ending is very Midsummer Murders!!!

Nobody (I) (2021)

Pure Parody.

[6/10 · 19 April 2023]

This is a total parody. Using all the clichés one usually finds in so called action revenge thrillers. It reminds me of Naked Gun and Hot Shots from back in the day. It's that type of comedy. I can't believe it's not classed as a comedy. It's pure Comedy. If anyone does take this film seriously then they're definitely a few sandwiches short of a picnic. Some serious fan boys going crazy over this and rating it far higher than it deserves considering it's a slap stick cliche comedy film rip off. Yes, it's very funny. Yes it'll have you laughing out loud alot, but Shawshank Redemption it is not!

Katie Price's Mucky Mansion (2022–2023)

I love this woman!

[10/10 · 19 March 2023]

It's been such a treat to watch someone who I admire so much transforming her home into something she loves regardless of what anyone else thinks. Her ideas have been inspirational. Pure joy and magic. I've loved watching her inner child let loose on her house. Yes she's loaded so money is no object but still she has purchased average things from average shops and let her imagination run wild and made some really fun girly rooms. So many people decorate their homes always thinking of what other people will think or of other people's opinions or what is considered stylish etc but it's only true gems like Katie that transform their homes into magical dream unique wonderlands. Katie has been through so much. Childhood trauma mixed in with never ending relationship trauma and this has made her a very unique adult with an inner child that needs healing. This home she's created for herself and her beautiful family of lovely children and animals will help her no end in her healing journey. Ironically, it was her sister and boyfriend who came across as the most insecure, always criticising Katie's tastes and ideas instead of just enjoying the journey Katie is on. They obviously care more about what other's think of them than Katie's vision. Which is sad. People being their true authentic selves is the most beautiful thing to witness. There should be more programmes about Katie and her beautiful children. I hope she does not fall for anymore unsuitable men but I think that's inevitable with her mental health issues. I really hope she meets a mature guy next time who's older than her and can look after her emotionally and have her best interests at heart like she needs. I adore her relationship with her kids, it's so cute. Harvey is a dream and all her children seem to be happy and content. So many people are so nasty about Katie online. Guess they're jealous of what a strong amazing stoic woman she is. Never underestimate the Pricey!!!! Love you girl. Never change.

Nocebo (II) (2022)

Fast Fashion Revenge Thriller.

[6/10 · 26 February 2023]

First thing that strikes you is that this loaded upper middle class family living in a three storey huge house in London drive an MG. LOL. That isn't The most unbelievable thing about the film though. Although it's far fetched and random to begin with it has a clear message. The films shines a light on the horrendous conditions some people have to work in to produce fast fashion for the privileged. Like most films these days it has a political agenda. Racism.... White privilege.... The consequences of fast Fashion, Etc. You end up rooting for Diana and not feeling distressed when the protagonist gets what she deserves. However the ending is a let down. Unless they're planning on making a sequel, the whole passing on of the power is unnecessary. It's worth watching but you'll soon forget it.

A Cure for Wellness (2016)

Stays with you forever.

[8/10 · 24 February 2023]

This is one of those films that simulate nightmares. A cleverly written Bizarre journey. If you've ever had those nightmares where nothing is as it seems and everyone's lying and you can't escape then you'll understand what I mean. It such a trip, you think you know what's going to happen then some more really random things occur. I have seen it three times now, just to see what I missed and to understand it better. I can understand why some more simple folk won't like it. It isn't written for simple minds. It's extremely layered, dark, intriguing and psychological. It will stay with you. It will frustrate you. You will want to see more films of the same calibre but you'll struggle to find them.

Forgotten (2017)

One of a kind, in the truest sense.

[10/10 · 7 January 2023]

I watched this film inadvertently one night in bed on my mobile because I couldn't sleep. Looking back I can't believe the first time I saw this film was on my mobile in the dark, It really didn't do it justice. I won't say anything about the plot because this film's twists and turns are too exceptional to spoil. Ever since seeing this masterpiece I go on and on about it to friends and even strangers telling them they MUST watch it. It makes me emotional actually because it is that good. It's one of my favourite films ever. I adore everything about it. It took me on a roller-coaster ride I wasn't expecting. It got me deeper and deeper into Korean films and since I've watched so many more yet none touched or thrilled me like this did. This is a 10 in the truest sense of 10. There's nothing you could say against it. You must watch it in Korean with subtitles. I can't abide dubbed films. So make sure you watch it properly. The acting is off the chart. The final scene ( I'll say no more) moved me beyond anything a film had ever done before. The delivery and acting of that scene makes me emotional just thinking about it. Blew my mind. You'll know what I mean when you watch it. The music aswell. Goodness me. The music is beautiful. If only merchandise was available from this film in the UK. I would buy the album, hoodie, poster etc. Proper fan girl. I've watched it so many times now. I've got all my friends and family to watch it. And I hope the world gets to see this film. I can't put into words how much I love this film. (but I tried to)

I Am...: I Am Ruth (2022) Season 3, Episode 1

Happening all over the world!

[8/10 · 2 January 2023]

This was a hard watch, in so many ways. It epitomises teenagers across the world who hold their own self worth on the opinion of strangers online. It is utterly tragic. My own niece is exactly like this. Posting overtly sexual photos online for attention and validation and she's 15 yet platform's like Insta etc allow it and her parents do nothing, absolutely disgusting. I will be taking a leaf out of Kate's book and not allowing my children smart phones. My only tiny criticism is the daughter is too mature for 17. And should've maybe tried to act more like a 17 yr old especially in her vocabulary. They need to make more realistic educational programmes like this.

Unfriended: Dark Web (2018)

Solid 7

[7/10 · 4 July 2020]

So clever. So many twists and turns. Really clever writing. Wish it had been twice as long. Only criticism would be it felt a little rushed. Can't wait for the next one.

Session 9 (2001)

WOW.

[7/10 · 3 July 2020]

This is not a cheaply made horror oe anything remotely like that.

My Mind is blown....this is a Deep dark psychological thriller. The writing is outstanding, the acting is on point and the twists and revelations are jaw dropping and you find yourself wanting to watch it again so you can see all the hidden stuff again. Wow. Wow. Wow.

Hidden in Plain Sight (2019 TV Movie)

Volvo must've paid for the film

[3/10 · 8 June 2020]

Apparently a part time waitress single mother can afford a brand new Volvo. Plus a 40 year old woman trying to play a 26 year old. Made for TV, averagely acted drivel. Turned it off after 25 minutes.