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Dean (6925 KP) rated Hubie Halloween (2020) in Movies
Oct 25, 2020
Hit and miss Halloween comedy
Thought I'd give this a go as it's a new Halloween comedy. I'm not much of a fan of Adam Sandler at the best of times. This has a few laughs, a great cast line up and the overall production is very good. His silly voice throughout the film is rather annoying. Makes it hard to understand what he is saying sometimes and was no need for it.
Starts well but by the end was just a bit silly, felt more like a live action scooby-doo film by the end. Aimed at a younger audience perhaps as it could have gone more all out horror but the ending was disappointing.
Starts well but by the end was just a bit silly, felt more like a live action scooby-doo film by the end. Aimed at a younger audience perhaps as it could have gone more all out horror but the ending was disappointing.
Awix (3310 KP) rated The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976) in Movies
Aug 1, 2020
Outstanding western starring and directed by Clint Eastwood. The American civil war transforms ordinary farmer Josey Wales into a ruthless, deadly gunfighter - but when his side is defeated, is there any chance he can leave violence behind and find a new life?
Made just as the western was going out of fashion as a genre, there's a strikingly elegiac quality to this film - it includes all the requisite action and violence, but also considers wider issues about what it means for people to try and live together. Brings real heart and soul to the slightly cartoony character Eastwood played for Sergio Leone. In some ways this is a very serious film, but it also works superbly as a piece of entertainment.
Made just as the western was going out of fashion as a genre, there's a strikingly elegiac quality to this film - it includes all the requisite action and violence, but also considers wider issues about what it means for people to try and live together. Brings real heart and soul to the slightly cartoony character Eastwood played for Sergio Leone. In some ways this is a very serious film, but it also works superbly as a piece of entertainment.
Gareth von Kallenbach (971 KP) rated Hit & Run (2012) in Movies
Aug 7, 2019
In this fast passed action comedy, Dax Shepard and Kristen Bell are a young couple who live in the small town of Milton. Charlie Bronson (Dax Shepard) has a sordid past that prevents him from leaving the small town that he and his girlfriend live in. Charlie’s past includes a bank robber without a name (Bradley Cooper) and he is out to seek revenge against Charlie for testifying against him in an older bank robbery case.
After Annie gets a promotion outside of Milton in L.A., the couple end up heading on a road trip as Charley is determined to get her to her new job on time. Little does she know the road trip to her future may be the end of her relationship, a crazy adventure or a new beginning.
This movie is nothing short of hilarious. In my opinion Tom Arnold who plays Charlie’s protection makes this entire movie worth watching and that is saying something.
While I was not a fan of the cinematography used in this film , the humor makes up for it for sure. This film should not be missed especially if you like really fast cars.
After Annie gets a promotion outside of Milton in L.A., the couple end up heading on a road trip as Charley is determined to get her to her new job on time. Little does she know the road trip to her future may be the end of her relationship, a crazy adventure or a new beginning.
This movie is nothing short of hilarious. In my opinion Tom Arnold who plays Charlie’s protection makes this entire movie worth watching and that is saying something.
While I was not a fan of the cinematography used in this film , the humor makes up for it for sure. This film should not be missed especially if you like really fast cars.
Gareth von Kallenbach (971 KP) rated The Expendables (2010) in Movies
Aug 8, 2019
The latest from Sylvester Stallone since 2008’s Rambo, The Expendables is a movie where the testosterone flows like enemy blood. Both movies have similar themes of redemption, regret, and courage, and also thankfully similar is that the moments of awesomeness are plentiful. The Expendables put up a lot of hype, and it had a lot to live up to with it’s cast of action star greats, but it doesn’t let the audience down. It’s not the cerebral meta-violence of Inglorious Basterds, but a simpler, old-school, fun action movie kind of violence. You can root for your favorite action hero, watch them kick a little bad-guy ass, and sit back and enjoy the show.
The characters, despite the star-studded name dropping on the film’s advertising hype, follow Barney Ross (Stallone) for the most part, and his right-hand-man Lee Christmas (Statham) a close second, with most of the other actors merely rounding out the team. Despite what would seem to be a ripoff from what they advertised on their posters, each character still gets a crowning moment of glory, albeit with less screen time than expected. In addition, these “major” side characters share frequent snide remarks that truly give each person on the team their own humorous depth of character. If you’re a fan of Jet Li or Terry Crews for example, rest assured that they all get their shining moment in the sun.
The plot, while not so simple as to be boring, surrounds an attempt by the team to overthrow a dictator in a small South American country. Complications arise, interpersonal conflicts come up, and from there, the plot takes off. Mercenary soldiers do a lot of bad things, and Stallone and co-screenwriter Dave Callaham give a good shot at prying open the inner world of some of these men as they go about their jobs, and the consequences that their actions (and often inactions) have on the way they see themselves. Granted, this is a fairly emotional touchy-feely way to describe the heart of the film, but don’t worry, these discussions are done with the stoicism and deflective humor you would expect from large men with bulging muscles and raging testosterone. The Expendables isn’t just another mindless action movie; it’s got enough going on beneath the surface to be worth watching again.
For an action blockbuster, it succeeds on most of the metrics we measure such films by, and surprisingly didn’t have many negatives. Do I care about the characters? Yes. Were there long periods without action sequences? No. Was the use of action cliche, or was it clever and original? Hilariously original at times. Was it fun? That’s an explosive yes.
The characters, despite the star-studded name dropping on the film’s advertising hype, follow Barney Ross (Stallone) for the most part, and his right-hand-man Lee Christmas (Statham) a close second, with most of the other actors merely rounding out the team. Despite what would seem to be a ripoff from what they advertised on their posters, each character still gets a crowning moment of glory, albeit with less screen time than expected. In addition, these “major” side characters share frequent snide remarks that truly give each person on the team their own humorous depth of character. If you’re a fan of Jet Li or Terry Crews for example, rest assured that they all get their shining moment in the sun.
The plot, while not so simple as to be boring, surrounds an attempt by the team to overthrow a dictator in a small South American country. Complications arise, interpersonal conflicts come up, and from there, the plot takes off. Mercenary soldiers do a lot of bad things, and Stallone and co-screenwriter Dave Callaham give a good shot at prying open the inner world of some of these men as they go about their jobs, and the consequences that their actions (and often inactions) have on the way they see themselves. Granted, this is a fairly emotional touchy-feely way to describe the heart of the film, but don’t worry, these discussions are done with the stoicism and deflective humor you would expect from large men with bulging muscles and raging testosterone. The Expendables isn’t just another mindless action movie; it’s got enough going on beneath the surface to be worth watching again.
For an action blockbuster, it succeeds on most of the metrics we measure such films by, and surprisingly didn’t have many negatives. Do I care about the characters? Yes. Were there long periods without action sequences? No. Was the use of action cliche, or was it clever and original? Hilariously original at times. Was it fun? That’s an explosive yes.
Rose (201 KP) rated Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi (2017) in Movies
Dec 18, 2017
Beautiful visuals (1 more)
Good story
This is the current movie I've been gushing about to my friends, it had a little bit of everything and did not fail to impress me.
Of course it helped that I was with a great packed-out theatre crowd. I live for moments when the whole theatre is applauding at a scene.
The pacing was great, I didn't feel as if I had been sitting at the theatre for an extended amount of time.
Great action moments, especially at the end, good high stakes drama, and comedy sprinkled throughout.
The visuals were beautiful
Now, all this being said, there were a few moments that kind of threw me. I don't want to explore these too much, as they are spoilers, but there was a time here and there that I felt myself mentally step back and question what was going on or if a scene or an action was really necessary.
All in all, I highly recommend this movie to all, Star Wars fans or not. This was a great bridge between the new trilogy and has me super excited for what's to come.
Of course it helped that I was with a great packed-out theatre crowd. I live for moments when the whole theatre is applauding at a scene.
The pacing was great, I didn't feel as if I had been sitting at the theatre for an extended amount of time.
Great action moments, especially at the end, good high stakes drama, and comedy sprinkled throughout.
The visuals were beautiful
Now, all this being said, there were a few moments that kind of threw me. I don't want to explore these too much, as they are spoilers, but there was a time here and there that I felt myself mentally step back and question what was going on or if a scene or an action was really necessary.
All in all, I highly recommend this movie to all, Star Wars fans or not. This was a great bridge between the new trilogy and has me super excited for what's to come.
Merissa (11805 KP) rated The Seer (Legends of Pern Coen: Fated #3) in Books
Oct 25, 2023
THE SEER is the third book in the Legends of Pern Coen: Fated series and we continue with Bran and Seren's story, but be prepared for your heart to be stomped on!
We are right back in the action and Seren is still trying to win the hearts of her people and the council. As for Bran, well, she's learned how to live without him but it wasn't easy and it did change her. So when he turns up again, who knows what will happen!
Poor Seren. That's it. My whole review in two words. Poor Seren! She is trying so hard, but there are more snakes in the grass than she is aware of, and it's not just Fianna plotting her downfall. The one who has her back completely is the one she can't bring herself to trust.
There is plenty of action and intrigue in this finale as it leads up to the conclusion. My concerns about Aengus were on target, and that's all I'll say. Alannah? Well past redemption, well past.
So much I could say and so much I can't, not if I don't want to give any spoilers away. What I can say is this trip to Pern Coen has been just as outstanding as the others. I love this world and the characters who live there.
A stunning climax to an amazing trilogy. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Oct 24, 2023
We are right back in the action and Seren is still trying to win the hearts of her people and the council. As for Bran, well, she's learned how to live without him but it wasn't easy and it did change her. So when he turns up again, who knows what will happen!
Poor Seren. That's it. My whole review in two words. Poor Seren! She is trying so hard, but there are more snakes in the grass than she is aware of, and it's not just Fianna plotting her downfall. The one who has her back completely is the one she can't bring herself to trust.
There is plenty of action and intrigue in this finale as it leads up to the conclusion. My concerns about Aengus were on target, and that's all I'll say. Alannah? Well past redemption, well past.
So much I could say and so much I can't, not if I don't want to give any spoilers away. What I can say is this trip to Pern Coen has been just as outstanding as the others. I love this world and the characters who live there.
A stunning climax to an amazing trilogy. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Oct 24, 2023
Glen Banyard (13 KP) rated Aladdin (2019) in Movies
Jun 9, 2019
The pacing in songs (1 more)
Jafar, just not malevolent
Not great, not terrible
So Aladdin came in for some possibly unjustified criticism when the trailers dropped and Will Smith was introduced as Genie, that though seriously is not the worst of the film.
The animated movie Jafar is evil, cunning and has the air of malevolence with every word he utters, in the live action, he's well, not, throughout the film he comes across weak, so that air just isn't there.
That though sad to say is not the worst, Jasmine and Aladdin, just no chemistry making the more romantic scenes more than a little painful to watch.
While kids will watch it and love the colorful genie, the parents will be fondly remembering the animated movie.
The animated movie Jafar is evil, cunning and has the air of malevolence with every word he utters, in the live action, he's well, not, throughout the film he comes across weak, so that air just isn't there.
That though sad to say is not the worst, Jasmine and Aladdin, just no chemistry making the more romantic scenes more than a little painful to watch.
While kids will watch it and love the colorful genie, the parents will be fondly remembering the animated movie.
Movie Metropolis (309 KP) rated Ice Age (2002) in Movies
Jun 10, 2019
Animated films, I feel, do snow a lot better than the majority of live-action movies. Why? Well it’s much easier to render snow when you’re creating a film that is solely CGI, you don’t need to worry too much about realism or shooting on location.
Ice Age remains one of the all-time greats of the genre, and in my opinion, it’s a little underrated. It’s spawned numerous decent quality sequels and has a cracking cast and a light, witty script that’s perfect for adults and children alike to enjoy. The snow is part and parcel of the movie, so that’s why it avalanches its way to number four in this list. Get it, avalanches? I’m on a roll.
https://moviemetropolis.net/2018/02/28/best-snow-movies-top-5/
Ice Age remains one of the all-time greats of the genre, and in my opinion, it’s a little underrated. It’s spawned numerous decent quality sequels and has a cracking cast and a light, witty script that’s perfect for adults and children alike to enjoy. The snow is part and parcel of the movie, so that’s why it avalanches its way to number four in this list. Get it, avalanches? I’m on a roll.
https://moviemetropolis.net/2018/02/28/best-snow-movies-top-5/
Kevin Wilson (179 KP) rated Maleficent (2014) in Movies
Sep 19, 2018
Great cast (3 more)
Great twists
Great story
Great special effects
Great take on the iconic Disney villain
This was a fun movie. A great take on the sleeping beauty with good twists.
They manage to give this iconic Disney villain many different layers and was played brilliantly by Angelina Jolie. The story was great and I enjoyed seeing the backstory of Maleficent. It gives so much weight to the sleeping beauty story we all know and you have more understanding and sympathy for the villain.
All parts of the cast were great and the CGi/special effects were great. It had to be since this movie is practically all special effects. The music was great and this is by far 1 of my favourite live action adaptations of a Disney movie so far.
They manage to give this iconic Disney villain many different layers and was played brilliantly by Angelina Jolie. The story was great and I enjoyed seeing the backstory of Maleficent. It gives so much weight to the sleeping beauty story we all know and you have more understanding and sympathy for the villain.
All parts of the cast were great and the CGi/special effects were great. It had to be since this movie is practically all special effects. The music was great and this is by far 1 of my favourite live action adaptations of a Disney movie so far.
Movie Metropolis (309 KP) rated The Lion King (2019) in Movies
Jul 22, 2019
A beautiful trip filled with nostalgia
Criticising this update of The Lion King because of its similarities to the 1994 original is doing a real disservice to the time, money and effort that has gone into getting this behemoth of a film to the big-screen. Jon Favreau delivered a unique take on The Jungle Book and while the result is slightly less successful here, The Lion King is a technical marvel that shows what incredible special effects look like today.
Those emotional moments may not hit as hard as they used to, but this is a treat for the eyes and the ears and another satisfying, if cautious, win for Disney’s ‘live-action’ remakes.
Read more at: https://moviemetropolis.net/2019/07/19/the-lion-king-review-a-technical-marvel/
Those emotional moments may not hit as hard as they used to, but this is a treat for the eyes and the ears and another satisfying, if cautious, win for Disney’s ‘live-action’ remakes.
Read more at: https://moviemetropolis.net/2019/07/19/the-lion-king-review-a-technical-marvel/