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Dean (6921 KP) rated Tremors: Shrieker Island (2020) in Movies
Aug 22, 2021
Well I think I've missed a few entries as this is now the 7th entry in the Tremors series. Seen the first 4 and they did go very budget after the first 2 films.
This has the same old plot really, this time a big game hunter has set up a Graboid hunt on a remote island. Filmed in the lovely islands of Thailand. As usual things get out of hand and who who else do you turn to to deal with the problem than good ol' Burt Gummer.
The effects are pretty good, and this seems to have been influenced by Predator in a few scenes. Still tongue in cheek but you know what you are getting by now. One for Tremors fans otherwise you're not missing much.
This has the same old plot really, this time a big game hunter has set up a Graboid hunt on a remote island. Filmed in the lovely islands of Thailand. As usual things get out of hand and who who else do you turn to to deal with the problem than good ol' Burt Gummer.
The effects are pretty good, and this seems to have been influenced by Predator in a few scenes. Still tongue in cheek but you know what you are getting by now. One for Tremors fans otherwise you're not missing much.
Gareth von Kallenbach (965 KP) rated District 9 (2009) in Movies
Aug 9, 2019
For months the Internet has been ablaze with movie propaganda about “District 9” the anticipated Science Fiction hit of the year. The exciting ad campaign and constant mumbling regarding the film made me wary, it is not unheard for films to lack the luster their advertisements display.
The story takes place twenty years after an alien space ship appears above Johannesburg, South Africa filled with bug-like aliens. These aliens, derogatorily called prawns, are placed in a quarantined slum called District 9. The film begins as a documentary following bumbling cross-species specialist Wikus Van De Merwe (Sharlto Copley) an employee of Multi-National United (MNU) a private company on a mission to evict the aliens to a new location, Distinct 10. Additionally, MNU is the primary company working to integrate the advanced alien weaponry with our own.
As the film progresses Wikus builds a relationship with an alien father and son while his relationship with MNU, the company he had long worked for, deteriorates. Throw in some Nigerian gangsters selling cat food and powerful alien technology and you have the making of science fiction gold.
One of the best elements of the film is the choice of location. The tension regarding South African history and politics is well worked into the film. In particular, the idea of standing up against oppression, even under impossible odds, is well paralleled.
The film provides nonstop entertainment and solidifies its place as a great science fiction film by providing introspection into the human race through interaction with aliens. “District 9” begs the audience to wonder what is more important the essence of humanity or being human.
One of the best science fiction films since “The Fifth Element”, “District 9 “ is both a thought provoking and engrossing film.
The story takes place twenty years after an alien space ship appears above Johannesburg, South Africa filled with bug-like aliens. These aliens, derogatorily called prawns, are placed in a quarantined slum called District 9. The film begins as a documentary following bumbling cross-species specialist Wikus Van De Merwe (Sharlto Copley) an employee of Multi-National United (MNU) a private company on a mission to evict the aliens to a new location, Distinct 10. Additionally, MNU is the primary company working to integrate the advanced alien weaponry with our own.
As the film progresses Wikus builds a relationship with an alien father and son while his relationship with MNU, the company he had long worked for, deteriorates. Throw in some Nigerian gangsters selling cat food and powerful alien technology and you have the making of science fiction gold.
One of the best elements of the film is the choice of location. The tension regarding South African history and politics is well worked into the film. In particular, the idea of standing up against oppression, even under impossible odds, is well paralleled.
The film provides nonstop entertainment and solidifies its place as a great science fiction film by providing introspection into the human race through interaction with aliens. “District 9” begs the audience to wonder what is more important the essence of humanity or being human.
One of the best science fiction films since “The Fifth Element”, “District 9 “ is both a thought provoking and engrossing film.
JT (287 KP) rated Rec 3: Genesis (2012) in Movies
Mar 10, 2020
If you enjoyed the success of the first two [Rec] films in which a reporter and camera crew where stuck in a apartment block over run with flesh eating tenants as a result of a strange virus then you’ll probably still enjoy this. The sequel followed on after the events of the first film and for this the location has changed from apartment block to a glamorous Spanish wedding.
The opening twenty minutes are shot from the viewpoint of a handheld camera by one of the guests as well as the occasional cut shot to the official wedding videographer. For Clara (Leticia Dolera) and Koldo (Diego Martín) this is the happiest day of their lives and we witness everything from the arrival of the guests, service and the wedding breakfast. The film then suddenly turns on its head when one of the guests starts showing the signs of a strange illness, then the shit hits the fan.
The handheld camera shot is abruptly dropped in a neat edit that adds in the title sequence, although we still get glimpses of flesh eating carnage from security cameras scattered around the venue. Clara and Koldo the pair are separated amidst all the mayhem and they have to fight their way back together, how romantic.
The first film’s apartment block location had the effectiveness of delivering high tension in a relatively enclosed and tight space, with Génesis the location is more vast and so at times it doesn’t feel as gripping, given also that some of the occurances happen in broad daylight.
Once the film gets going the gore is ramped up a few more levels, and when Clara turns into some sort of bridezilla complete with ripped wedding dress and chainsaw any more scares are lost in the comedy of death scenes for the unlucky few who choose to get in her way. It is certainly not the best of the three but it offers enough to keep the connections of the story-line going, perhaps even for one more film?
The opening twenty minutes are shot from the viewpoint of a handheld camera by one of the guests as well as the occasional cut shot to the official wedding videographer. For Clara (Leticia Dolera) and Koldo (Diego Martín) this is the happiest day of their lives and we witness everything from the arrival of the guests, service and the wedding breakfast. The film then suddenly turns on its head when one of the guests starts showing the signs of a strange illness, then the shit hits the fan.
The handheld camera shot is abruptly dropped in a neat edit that adds in the title sequence, although we still get glimpses of flesh eating carnage from security cameras scattered around the venue. Clara and Koldo the pair are separated amidst all the mayhem and they have to fight their way back together, how romantic.
The first film’s apartment block location had the effectiveness of delivering high tension in a relatively enclosed and tight space, with Génesis the location is more vast and so at times it doesn’t feel as gripping, given also that some of the occurances happen in broad daylight.
Once the film gets going the gore is ramped up a few more levels, and when Clara turns into some sort of bridezilla complete with ripped wedding dress and chainsaw any more scares are lost in the comedy of death scenes for the unlucky few who choose to get in her way. It is certainly not the best of the three but it offers enough to keep the connections of the story-line going, perhaps even for one more film?
Starring New York: Filming the Grime and the Glamour of the Long 1970s
Book
Starring New York considers twenty-one films in detail, and more generally discusses many others,...
LeftSideCut (3778 KP) rated Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983) in Movies
Oct 13, 2019 (Updated Dec 20, 2019)
A great but flawed entry into a groundbreaking trilogy
Return of the Jedi is a good enough closing episode of the original Star Wars trilogy.
A lot of the great things about the previous two films are carried over - the awesome settings and location, the unbeatable John Williams score, and the epic sci-fi vision that started in 1977.
By this point, everyone is familiar with all of the characters. Luke, Leia, and Han all return, and aren't really in any need of any further character development at this point. Not necessarily a bad thing as ROTJ can concentrate on rounding off the story.
The most divisive element of this entry amongst Star Wars fans are of course the Ewoks. Their inclusion is certainly a hammier direction for the series. Some people loved it, some absolutely hated it, and how big of a part they play during the films climax.
I personally am indifferent. I don't hate the Ewoks, but they're partly what makes ROTJ inferior to the first two. Still, not a scratch on what's to come *cough* Jar Jar *cough*.
We're still treated to some iconic moments - Jabba the Hutt and the Rancor pit. Vader and Luke finally squaring off. The speeder bike chase.
This shows just how much Star Wars still delivers three films in.
All in all, ROTJ is still an integral part of one of the most beloved film franchises of all time, and will always be important to me!
A lot of the great things about the previous two films are carried over - the awesome settings and location, the unbeatable John Williams score, and the epic sci-fi vision that started in 1977.
By this point, everyone is familiar with all of the characters. Luke, Leia, and Han all return, and aren't really in any need of any further character development at this point. Not necessarily a bad thing as ROTJ can concentrate on rounding off the story.
The most divisive element of this entry amongst Star Wars fans are of course the Ewoks. Their inclusion is certainly a hammier direction for the series. Some people loved it, some absolutely hated it, and how big of a part they play during the films climax.
I personally am indifferent. I don't hate the Ewoks, but they're partly what makes ROTJ inferior to the first two. Still, not a scratch on what's to come *cough* Jar Jar *cough*.
We're still treated to some iconic moments - Jabba the Hutt and the Rancor pit. Vader and Luke finally squaring off. The speeder bike chase.
This shows just how much Star Wars still delivers three films in.
All in all, ROTJ is still an integral part of one of the most beloved film franchises of all time, and will always be important to me!
Darren (1599 KP) rated Alien (1979) in Movies
Jun 20, 2019
Story: It would be fair to say when this came out it was brilliant and stand alone on the type of film. Now the story has been copied, pinched from and used to the death. This paved the way for the truly trapped horror films because the space mission means it’s the ship of nothing. The twist that comes half way through offers a surprise and of cause the mood of the film changes drastically when the alien makes its first appearance. (10/10)
Actor Review: Sigourney Weaver – Ripley, just part of the crew really but steps up when the alien starts wreaking havoc. In a role that will be remembered as one of the best and most iconic in sci-fi history this performance will never be forgotten. Breakout Performance Award, Iconic Performance Award, Star Performance Award (10/10)
ripley
Actor Review: Tom Skerritt – Captain Dallas puts the team together to investigate the planet but has to step up when they don’t come back alone. Good performance showing leadership in time of panic. (9/10)
Actor Review: Ian Holm – Ash the science officer who is very distant as well as keeping a big secret from the rest of the crew. Good performance from Holm that opened a door for a twist in films that people actually have to think about. (9/10)
holm
Actor Review: John Hurt – Kane gets a creature stuck on his face before looking like making a full recovery only to make film history. This character has one of the most iconic sci-fi horror deaths in history. Unluckiest Character Award (9/10)
hurt
Director Review: Ridley Scott – Creates a world that no one saw coming and shows brilliant direction to create atmosphere throughout. (10/10)
Horror: There is no escape from a creature you have never met. (10/10)
Sci-Fi: Redefines the sci-fi genre to use true horror. (10/10)
Special Effects: Stunning special effects that even after 30 plus years still haven’t dated. (10/10)
Believability: We don’t know what is really in space until we go deeper enough. (5/10)
Chances of Tears: No (0/10)
Settings: When it comes to horror you need great location isolation is the best as we know the characters have nowhere to run, this offers that making the setting perfect. (10/10)
Suggestion: Most films can come and go and gain a few fans, this is not one of them it is one of the first films people will say when you say sci-fi. This makes it a must watch and when you do you will be reward but I expect most of you have already seen it so watch it again. (Watch)
Best Part: Alien first reveal.
Kill Of The Film: Kane
Trivia: The original title was Space Beast.
Oscar Chances: Won for Best Effects.
Chances of Sequel: Has three direct sequels and a couple of versus films.
Overall: Masterpiece classic must see
https://moviesreview101.com/2014/02/12/alien-1979/
Actor Review: Sigourney Weaver – Ripley, just part of the crew really but steps up when the alien starts wreaking havoc. In a role that will be remembered as one of the best and most iconic in sci-fi history this performance will never be forgotten. Breakout Performance Award, Iconic Performance Award, Star Performance Award (10/10)
ripley
Actor Review: Tom Skerritt – Captain Dallas puts the team together to investigate the planet but has to step up when they don’t come back alone. Good performance showing leadership in time of panic. (9/10)
Actor Review: Ian Holm – Ash the science officer who is very distant as well as keeping a big secret from the rest of the crew. Good performance from Holm that opened a door for a twist in films that people actually have to think about. (9/10)
holm
Actor Review: John Hurt – Kane gets a creature stuck on his face before looking like making a full recovery only to make film history. This character has one of the most iconic sci-fi horror deaths in history. Unluckiest Character Award (9/10)
hurt
Director Review: Ridley Scott – Creates a world that no one saw coming and shows brilliant direction to create atmosphere throughout. (10/10)
Horror: There is no escape from a creature you have never met. (10/10)
Sci-Fi: Redefines the sci-fi genre to use true horror. (10/10)
Special Effects: Stunning special effects that even after 30 plus years still haven’t dated. (10/10)
Believability: We don’t know what is really in space until we go deeper enough. (5/10)
Chances of Tears: No (0/10)
Settings: When it comes to horror you need great location isolation is the best as we know the characters have nowhere to run, this offers that making the setting perfect. (10/10)
Suggestion: Most films can come and go and gain a few fans, this is not one of them it is one of the first films people will say when you say sci-fi. This makes it a must watch and when you do you will be reward but I expect most of you have already seen it so watch it again. (Watch)
Best Part: Alien first reveal.
Kill Of The Film: Kane
Trivia: The original title was Space Beast.
Oscar Chances: Won for Best Effects.
Chances of Sequel: Has three direct sequels and a couple of versus films.
Overall: Masterpiece classic must see
https://moviesreview101.com/2014/02/12/alien-1979/
Andy K (10821 KP) rated Glengarry Glen Ross (1992) in Movies
Jan 3, 2018
The cast (2 more)
The screenplay
The location
On paper, a film about a bunch of real estate salesman sitting around an office insulting each other and going to any length to get the customer to buy what they are selling may sound boring and uninteresting.
Let m tell you, this film is far from that and is one of my favorite films of all time. If you even put aside the stellar cast of Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Kevin Spacey, Ed Harris, Alan Arkin and Alec Baldwin (best role of his career), the screenplay by David Mamet (based on his play) is so full of rich, entertaining words, you can't believe what you are hearing.
Some of the battles between the salesman trying to get their sale or insulting each other after something goes awry have to be heard to be believed. The Alec Baldwin speech is really great; however, the one I always remember is the lashing Al Pacino gives Kevin Spacey when Spacey says the wrong thing.
Unbelievable!
I highly recommend as I have seen many times and enjoy even more every time.
Let m tell you, this film is far from that and is one of my favorite films of all time. If you even put aside the stellar cast of Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Kevin Spacey, Ed Harris, Alan Arkin and Alec Baldwin (best role of his career), the screenplay by David Mamet (based on his play) is so full of rich, entertaining words, you can't believe what you are hearing.
Some of the battles between the salesman trying to get their sale or insulting each other after something goes awry have to be heard to be believed. The Alec Baldwin speech is really great; however, the one I always remember is the lashing Al Pacino gives Kevin Spacey when Spacey says the wrong thing.
Unbelievable!
I highly recommend as I have seen many times and enjoy even more every time.
Arctic Justice: Thunder Squad (2018)
2.0
Rate It
Movie
Swifty the Arctic fox works in the mail room of the Arctic Blast Delivery Service but dreams of one...
animation
Lindsay (1693 KP) rated One Christmas in Winter in Books
Apr 9, 2019
One Christmas in Winter appear about a girl and her dream to want to director of holiday films. Will she get her dream job. There appear problems though out with her cast. When her led man falls it put her in a spot, that she got to find a stand in for him.
Holt Bradley has his own dream. He walked away from it and Hollywood for a reason. He has come back to his hometown where his father owns a diner and once his father passes Holt is owner and run the place. Things get a bit confusion when he delivers Chinese food to the movie crew that come to winter to film on location.
What on from there is anyone guess. Will Holt and director be the stars or the holiday film or will it be a repeat of the past. Find out by reading the story to see. This book and story is centered around the holiday season of Christmas. Looking for the spirit of Christmas and it magic. This one will not disappoint.
The author does well with having take place in Winter, Montana. The title says it all. Will Christmas bring true love together or will it just be another Christmas in Winter, Montana.
Holt Bradley has his own dream. He walked away from it and Hollywood for a reason. He has come back to his hometown where his father owns a diner and once his father passes Holt is owner and run the place. Things get a bit confusion when he delivers Chinese food to the movie crew that come to winter to film on location.
What on from there is anyone guess. Will Holt and director be the stars or the holiday film or will it be a repeat of the past. Find out by reading the story to see. This book and story is centered around the holiday season of Christmas. Looking for the spirit of Christmas and it magic. This one will not disappoint.
The author does well with having take place in Winter, Montana. The title says it all. Will Christmas bring true love together or will it just be another Christmas in Winter, Montana.
AH
Almost Hollywood, Nearly New Orleans: The Lure of the Local Film Economy
Book
A free ebook version of this title is available through Luminos, University of California Press's...