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James P. Sumner (65 KP) rated Brightburn (2019) in Movies
Jun 27, 2019
A dark, dark twist on the superhero genre.
Before I start, a disclaimer: I drastically misinterpreted the story of this movie from the trailer.
Another disclaimer: I really don't like horror movies!
Yes, this is a horror movie. Not the scariest, I imagine. Having not seen many to compare it to, I can only guess. But it had its jump-scares, and its gory scenes, and a constant, overwhelming tension that made you feel like the next second will contain something that will make you leap from your seat.
The story is an interesting one, that hasn't yet been done to death. What if Superman grew up evil? At no point does this film act like, or compare itself to, a superhero film, but that's the basic premise.
This ticks all the boxes for a standard horror flick - strong, beautiful female, slightly annoying husband punching above his weight, and a creepy-looking kid who you just know is going to be evil.
Some scenes are graphically violent, some were uncomfortably creepy, others were just kinda funny. Fans of horror movies will probably feel a little underwhelmed here, because as much as I was scared out of my mind for most of it, true horror aficionados will likely expect more scares for their money. Similarly, if you enjoy comic book movies, this REALLY isn't the film for you. The premise might have its roots in the superhero genre, but Superman, it isn't!
Unexpected scares aside, it wasn't a bad movie, really. The ending had a nice spin to it that you don't see all that often. There's also footage over the early credits that suggests this film may be the beginning of a larger universe - a concept begun with the MCU and since adopted by a number of studios and franchises. While few have seen even a glimpse of Marvel's success, this has the same amount of potential as Godzilla's Monsterverse, at least.
If you pay for your cinema tickets, save your money for something more worthy. If you have a monthly pass and can see whatever you want, catch this one if you're bored sometime. Failing that, watch it at home so you can leave the lights on and not look like a baby!
Another disclaimer: I really don't like horror movies!
Yes, this is a horror movie. Not the scariest, I imagine. Having not seen many to compare it to, I can only guess. But it had its jump-scares, and its gory scenes, and a constant, overwhelming tension that made you feel like the next second will contain something that will make you leap from your seat.
The story is an interesting one, that hasn't yet been done to death. What if Superman grew up evil? At no point does this film act like, or compare itself to, a superhero film, but that's the basic premise.
This ticks all the boxes for a standard horror flick - strong, beautiful female, slightly annoying husband punching above his weight, and a creepy-looking kid who you just know is going to be evil.
Some scenes are graphically violent, some were uncomfortably creepy, others were just kinda funny. Fans of horror movies will probably feel a little underwhelmed here, because as much as I was scared out of my mind for most of it, true horror aficionados will likely expect more scares for their money. Similarly, if you enjoy comic book movies, this REALLY isn't the film for you. The premise might have its roots in the superhero genre, but Superman, it isn't!
Unexpected scares aside, it wasn't a bad movie, really. The ending had a nice spin to it that you don't see all that often. There's also footage over the early credits that suggests this film may be the beginning of a larger universe - a concept begun with the MCU and since adopted by a number of studios and franchises. While few have seen even a glimpse of Marvel's success, this has the same amount of potential as Godzilla's Monsterverse, at least.
If you pay for your cinema tickets, save your money for something more worthy. If you have a monthly pass and can see whatever you want, catch this one if you're bored sometime. Failing that, watch it at home so you can leave the lights on and not look like a baby!
Darren (1599 KP) rated Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016) in Movies
Sep 16, 2019
Characters – Ricky is a rebellious teenager that has bounced through the foster system, now he must go into farm life away from the street problems he has found himself in. when he goes off into the wilderness he wants to prove himself to everyone and Hec. Hec is the father figure that adopts Ricky only to take him under his wing after his wife died, he is a reluctant protector and guide who would rather be with at one with nature. Paula is the child welfare officer that is trying to find Ricky, she does want what is best for the children but can take things too far.
Performances – Sam Neill easily gives one of his best performances of his career here, showing the heart the character needs along with the determination to do the right thing too. Julian Dennison is fantastic in this role, he has the innocent side while also showing the front of toughness that the character requires.
Story – The story is a coming of age tale, between a foster kid and his reluctant new father who wasn’t prepared for the responsibility placed upon him. The two go on an adventure through the wilderness which gathers national news and a nationwide manhunt. It shows how two different people from different backgrounds of different ages can work together, teaching each other important life lesson, in what is one of the most enjoyable stories you will see.
Adventure/Comedy – The adventure takes us through the New Zealand wilderness, seeing sights of wonder along the way. The film is told in a comic tone that will make you laugh plenty of times along the journey.
Settings – The wilderness of New Zealand makes for the stunning settings being used, nearly all the scenes have a breath-taking view.
Scene of the Movie – The last run.
That Moment That Annoyed Me – Certain slang turns can go over your head.
Final Thoughts – This is one of the most fun coming of age movies I have ever seen, the adventure is fantastic, the comedy hits and the pairing works all day long.
Overall: Must watch cinema for the family.
Performances – Sam Neill easily gives one of his best performances of his career here, showing the heart the character needs along with the determination to do the right thing too. Julian Dennison is fantastic in this role, he has the innocent side while also showing the front of toughness that the character requires.
Story – The story is a coming of age tale, between a foster kid and his reluctant new father who wasn’t prepared for the responsibility placed upon him. The two go on an adventure through the wilderness which gathers national news and a nationwide manhunt. It shows how two different people from different backgrounds of different ages can work together, teaching each other important life lesson, in what is one of the most enjoyable stories you will see.
Adventure/Comedy – The adventure takes us through the New Zealand wilderness, seeing sights of wonder along the way. The film is told in a comic tone that will make you laugh plenty of times along the journey.
Settings – The wilderness of New Zealand makes for the stunning settings being used, nearly all the scenes have a breath-taking view.
Scene of the Movie – The last run.
That Moment That Annoyed Me – Certain slang turns can go over your head.
Final Thoughts – This is one of the most fun coming of age movies I have ever seen, the adventure is fantastic, the comedy hits and the pairing works all day long.
Overall: Must watch cinema for the family.
Gareth von Kallenbach (971 KP) rated Angel Has Fallen (2019) in Movies
Aug 21, 2019
It is hard to believe that it has been six years since Gerard Butler introduced audiences to Special Agent Mike Banning. Over the course of the film and its sequel; Banning kept the President safe against a never-ending barrage of threats both home and abroad.
For the new film “Angel Has Fallen”; Banning must protect a new President (Morgan Freeman) and clear his name when he is framed after a devastating attack on the President.
When he is suddenly the most wanted man in the country; Banning must use all his skills when he is abducted and subsequently escapes while be transported to a detention facility.
The movie takes a bit of time getting up to speed but wisely has some good action along the way to setup the film and increase the tension levels. Once the action revs up, it is full on pedal to the floor action with Butler throwing himself into the fray against heavy odds no matter the cost.
What makes this film stand out from the others is that narrative is more plausible than other action films and you do see Butler dealing with the results of his profession. This is not a Teflon Super Hero who has bullets bounce off his chest. This is a man who bears his physical and psychological scars from his years in service and has a hard time letting go of the work even though it is what he believes he is best suited for.
Morgan Freeman gives a very strong performance as does Nick Nolte who stole many of the scenes in which he was in and provided some real Wild Card comic relief and action to the film.
In the end it is Gerard’s picture and he throws himself into the part without becoming repetitive of his past films and giving Banning a relatable and sympathetic quality that is often lacking in films of this type.
In a summer of many films Over Promising and Under-Delivering: “Angel Has Fallen” is a refreshing exception as it was an enjoyable thrill ride from start to finish and I sure hope we have not seen the last of Agent Banning.
4 stars out of 5
http://sknr.net/2019/08/21/angel-has-fallen/
For the new film “Angel Has Fallen”; Banning must protect a new President (Morgan Freeman) and clear his name when he is framed after a devastating attack on the President.
When he is suddenly the most wanted man in the country; Banning must use all his skills when he is abducted and subsequently escapes while be transported to a detention facility.
The movie takes a bit of time getting up to speed but wisely has some good action along the way to setup the film and increase the tension levels. Once the action revs up, it is full on pedal to the floor action with Butler throwing himself into the fray against heavy odds no matter the cost.
What makes this film stand out from the others is that narrative is more plausible than other action films and you do see Butler dealing with the results of his profession. This is not a Teflon Super Hero who has bullets bounce off his chest. This is a man who bears his physical and psychological scars from his years in service and has a hard time letting go of the work even though it is what he believes he is best suited for.
Morgan Freeman gives a very strong performance as does Nick Nolte who stole many of the scenes in which he was in and provided some real Wild Card comic relief and action to the film.
In the end it is Gerard’s picture and he throws himself into the part without becoming repetitive of his past films and giving Banning a relatable and sympathetic quality that is often lacking in films of this type.
In a summer of many films Over Promising and Under-Delivering: “Angel Has Fallen” is a refreshing exception as it was an enjoyable thrill ride from start to finish and I sure hope we have not seen the last of Agent Banning.
4 stars out of 5
http://sknr.net/2019/08/21/angel-has-fallen/
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Emma @ The Movies (1786 KP) rated Mortal Kombat (2021) in Movies
Aug 21, 2021
Potentially, I'm one of the only people to have enjoyed Mortal Kombat Annihilation. Admittedly it was a long time ago that I saw it, but I remember good memories of it.
I'm going to skip over the extended synopsis, firstly because the short one sums it up, and secondly because if I put much more in it the whole plot will be ruined.
While I watched the film I was generally entertained, but when I came out there were some points that festered in my brain a bit. And those thoughts seem to have been reflected in podcasts and reviews I've come across.
This is probably exactly what you'd expect from A] a video game film and B] a Mortal Kombat film... it's both good and bad in varying degrees.
What is sad about this review is that I can't really tell you anything good about it... or just anything about it at all. Everything was instantly forgettable. I can tell you the woman from The Meg & Black Water Abyss is in it (because of course I can). I can tell you that there are bad guys fighting the good guys... or the less bad guys...
Effects, there are some of those too. Vague recollections of them being okay. I could certainly embrace the fantasy angle and forgive some things.
At this point I'd like to apologise for such a half arsed review, but it does perfectly illustrate the film... waffle with no real purpose. Although actually, the film does have a purpose. To set up for a sequel. Because some random comic violence and odd powers are generally entertaining.
As a sign off for this review, I would like to say sorry for this trash (the review and the film). I just think it perfectly sums up how I felt about this film: I've wasted your time, you'll never get it back, but I've (hopefully) given you some brief moments of entertainment. But on the plus side, if you've read this review before seeing the film then I might have saved you the 1 hour and 50 minutes (oh my god, I don't even know how I sat through that) of viewing time.
Originally posted on: https://emmaatthemovies.blogspot.com/2021/08/mortal-kombat-movie-review.html
I'm going to skip over the extended synopsis, firstly because the short one sums it up, and secondly because if I put much more in it the whole plot will be ruined.
While I watched the film I was generally entertained, but when I came out there were some points that festered in my brain a bit. And those thoughts seem to have been reflected in podcasts and reviews I've come across.
This is probably exactly what you'd expect from A] a video game film and B] a Mortal Kombat film... it's both good and bad in varying degrees.
What is sad about this review is that I can't really tell you anything good about it... or just anything about it at all. Everything was instantly forgettable. I can tell you the woman from The Meg & Black Water Abyss is in it (because of course I can). I can tell you that there are bad guys fighting the good guys... or the less bad guys...
Effects, there are some of those too. Vague recollections of them being okay. I could certainly embrace the fantasy angle and forgive some things.
At this point I'd like to apologise for such a half arsed review, but it does perfectly illustrate the film... waffle with no real purpose. Although actually, the film does have a purpose. To set up for a sequel. Because some random comic violence and odd powers are generally entertaining.
As a sign off for this review, I would like to say sorry for this trash (the review and the film). I just think it perfectly sums up how I felt about this film: I've wasted your time, you'll never get it back, but I've (hopefully) given you some brief moments of entertainment. But on the plus side, if you've read this review before seeing the film then I might have saved you the 1 hour and 50 minutes (oh my god, I don't even know how I sat through that) of viewing time.
Originally posted on: https://emmaatthemovies.blogspot.com/2021/08/mortal-kombat-movie-review.html