grahamchris Reviews

Ricky Gervais: Armageddon (2023 TV Special)

Genius

[9/10 · 25 December 2023]

First of all I'm a Ricky Gervais fan. I think he's a comedy genius. This is an hour of hard hitting comedy gold. Probably not to everyone's taste but as the man says, you've got to laugh at bad subjects to get through them.

I've seen all his televised stand up shows and all his television series. He's like no other comedian. But if you get him, as I do, I'm sure you'll enjoy this TV special.

The subject matters are controversial but the trick is not to take what he says too literal. He's just making humour out of the world that mankind is making such a mess off. If we don't laugh we would all end up crying!

The Exorcist (2016–2018)

Love discovering a box set to binge.

[8/10 · 3 December 2023]

The Exorcist (1973) is one of my all time favourite movies. When I stumbled upon this series I was sceptical at first but thought I would give it a try. I've now watched the first 6 episodes. No spoilers but if you're a fan of the film I don't think you'll be disappointed. I'm enjoying it and looking forward to the next 14 episodes.

The cast is strong, including heavy weights, such as Geena Davis and Sharon Gless. Also Ben Daniels and Alfonso Herrera are excellent as the two polarised priests.

I would suggest it's a strong stand alone series with interesting links to the original movie. I would recommend.

Under the Skin (I) (2013)

Unusual

[6/10 · 4 July 2022]

If you like a film straight forward with a linear storyline. This is not for you. On the other hand if you can handle films that are odd in the extreme. Give it a try.

Life After Life (2022)

Thought Provoking

[8/10 · 22 April 2022]

I'm a big fan of Kate Atkinson novels. So I was keen to see the adaptation of Life After Life. In my opinion, cast and crew have done a great job. It's a very intricate novel and I was concerned it wouldn't work on screen.

I really enjoyed it and Thomasin McKenzie is a wonderful young actress.

Ray & Liz (2018)

Grim!

[6/10 · 6 April 2022]

This film's subject matter is very grim. It's a good piece of filmmaking with some excellent cinematography. But boy! It's so depressing.

If you're looking for a feel good film this is not for you. But if you can handle gritty realism you may very well enjoy it.

The Devil All the Time (2020)

Certainly Different

[7/10 · 22 October 2021]

First of all, I enjoyed this film. It's a strong cast list and for many of the actors a change from the norm. I'm not going to go into too much detail. But to give a taste of its feel. It reminded of Magnolia, Shawshank and No County For Old Men. Quirky and hard hitting.

The Vanishing (II) (2018)

Good Film

[7/10 · 8 July 2021]

Pay no attention to the 5.8 average rating for this film. It's well worth a watch. Dark, tense and atmospheric with an excellent cast. A solid 7 all day long.

Lance (2020)

This Guy!

[7/10 · 24 September 2020]

This is basically 3 hours of Lance Armstrong trying to justify his years and years of blatant cheating. His constant mantra "I wouldn't change a thing". Is laughable.

The documentary itself is very well done and I'm pleased I've watched it. If you have an interest in cycling and the Lance Armstrong saga. It's definitely worth a watch.

But I must say, Armstrong's demeanour and language throughout is rather disappointing. Surely he should be more humble.

Suburbicon (2017)

Dismayed

[7/10 · 28 May 2020]

I'm giving this film a solid 7. I'm dismayed it's only averaging out at 5.7.

It's unusual, quirky and darkly funny. Juxtaposed with racial issues and violence. It's got the Coen brothers and George Clooney's fingerprints all over it.

I enjoyed it and when I look at some of the films on here that are averaging 7+. I am rather bewildered.

Quiz (2020)

The Money?

[7/10 · 16 April 2020]

I enjoyed this. Stephen Frears' projects rarely let you down. It wasn't made clear in the show. Did the Major actually end up receiving the money?

Downsizing (2017)

Ignore The Average Mark

[7/10 · 4 February 2020]

This is an unusual and thought provoking film. Totally unique in narrative. Oddly funny and touching. I gave it a solid 7.

Girl (II) (2018)

Thought Provoking

[8/10 · 25 November 2019]

This film is outstanding and thought provoking. Hopefully it gives some insight into the profound sadness and entrapment of a person with these feelings. The actors who play the father and daughter are amazing! Playing their roles with such emotion and tenderness.

Stations of the Cross (2014)

Thought Provoking

[7/10 · 22 August 2019]

First of all, I'm English and don't speak German. I had to rely on the subtitles. And the film is very dialogue heavy. However, in my opinion this is a very interesting and thought provoking film concerning strong catholic beliefs and the strains of teenage angst. Probably not everyone's cup of tea but I enjoyed it and it kept me thinking afterwards.

Game of Thrones: The Iron Throne (2019) Season 8, Episode 6

A Bit Rushed

[4/10 · 26 May 2019]

I guess it was always going to be difficult to wrap up such an epic series. However I feel the last episode was rather weak. Not disastrous as other people have suggested but a little disappointing I must say.

Black Mirror: Bandersnatch (2018)

Thought Provoking

[8/10 · 31 December 2018]

I have just watched and I'm writing this while my brain is still processing the whole experience. This is viewing on a totally different level. Apparently a lot of critics are slating it.

My advice is to watch it and make up your own mind. I loved it! And I will be revisiting it and making different choices next time.

Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)

Loved It!

[9/10 · 22 November 2018]

Alright granted, I'm a huge Queen fan. I really enjoyed the film. A must see for any Queen fan. But even if you're not. It's still a very well made film and tells the story of Queen's inception up to their barn storming performance at Live Aid. See it on the big screen. I would suggest it will lose a little magic if you're going to wait for it on television.

Lad: A Yorkshire Story (2013)

Lovely!

[8/10 · 24 August 2018]

A gentle, beautifully told story of loss, grief and anger regarding the loss of a family member. All the cast members portray the film's characters with empathy and belief. And the film's backdrop of the Yorkshire Dales make the watching experience extra special.

Mary Magdalene (2018)

Perfectly Decent Film

[7/10 · 17 August 2018]

I wouldn't pay much attention to the low mark this film is receiving at present. I enjoyed it. Good performances, beautifully shot and a believable adaptation of the subject matter.

Whiplash (2014)

Excellent

[8/10 · 6 January 2016]

I enjoyed this film on many levels. Being a drummer myself, obviously the subject matter was of great interest to me.

The acting performances were excellent, especially J K Simmons. This guy is like a good wine, he improves with age. I loved him in Juno. However Whiplash must be his defining role. I was delighted to see this was recognised at the Academy Awards. I was very impressed with Miles Teller too. He first came to my attention in the film Rabbit Hole. An excellent young contemporary actor.

I would recommend this film to anyone who has an interest in music and enjoys films with a good dose of gritty realism. And again, look out for J K Simmons in scintillating form. Enjoy!