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JT (287 KP) rated The Orphanage (2007) in Movies
Mar 10, 2020
This is an eerie and creepy Spanish horror/thriller and was an outstanding achievement for foreign film. Executive produced by Guillermo del Toro the film centres around a young woman returning to her childhood home to open an Orphanage for disabled children.
The couples young son Simon is able to run freely around the old gothic house and play to his heart’s content, but when he begins playing with an imaginary friend things start to take a sinister turn.
The Orphanage is beautifully shot and the setting could not be more apt for a ghost story. The surroundings do enough to make the spine chill before we even catch sight of any odd goings on – but when we do it’s subtle, yet frightening.
The plot doesn’t need to rely on buckets of gore. Maybe with the exception of one particular scene. Instead it takes the audience on a roller coaster journey by manipulating their senses to what they “may or may not” have seen.
The acting too deserves a mention and Belen Rueda who plays Laura displays great emotional prowess as a mother who is on the verge of collapsing with only her husband Carlos (Fernando Cayo) to offer a glimmer of support. While there may be similarities drawn from other films of this genre; such as The Others and The Shining it doesn’t try to copy or imitate it in any shape or form.
Without spoiling it, the ending is one that will leave film goers everywhere asking many questions and in some cases these may never be answered, something which I love. It’s a brilliant and well scripted film and one I would highly recommend.
The couples young son Simon is able to run freely around the old gothic house and play to his heart’s content, but when he begins playing with an imaginary friend things start to take a sinister turn.
The Orphanage is beautifully shot and the setting could not be more apt for a ghost story. The surroundings do enough to make the spine chill before we even catch sight of any odd goings on – but when we do it’s subtle, yet frightening.
The plot doesn’t need to rely on buckets of gore. Maybe with the exception of one particular scene. Instead it takes the audience on a roller coaster journey by manipulating their senses to what they “may or may not” have seen.
The acting too deserves a mention and Belen Rueda who plays Laura displays great emotional prowess as a mother who is on the verge of collapsing with only her husband Carlos (Fernando Cayo) to offer a glimmer of support. While there may be similarities drawn from other films of this genre; such as The Others and The Shining it doesn’t try to copy or imitate it in any shape or form.
Without spoiling it, the ending is one that will leave film goers everywhere asking many questions and in some cases these may never be answered, something which I love. It’s a brilliant and well scripted film and one I would highly recommend.
The Modern Woman's Guide to Finding a Knight
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Connie leads a double life. During the week, she is an up-and-coming designer and dressmaker,...
DaveySmithy (107 KP) rated Wicked (2024) in Movies
Dec 3, 2024
A Magical, If Slightly Uneven Journey
The long-awaited Wicked movie finally graces the big screen in 2024, bringing the beloved Broadway musical to life with all the magic, heart, and soaring melodies that made it iconic. Directed by Jon M. Chu, this adaptation dives deep into the untold story of the witches of Oz, offering stunning visuals, powerhouse performances, and emotional depth that will captivate fans of the musical and newcomers alike.
The film explores the complex relationship between Elphaba (played by Cynthia Erivo), the misunderstood green-skinned girl who will become the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda (Ariana Grande), the glamorous and ambitious witch-in-training. Both actresses deliver strong performances, with Erivo’s soulful voice shining in ballads like “Defying Gravity” and “I’m Not That Girl.” Grande brings charm and humor to Glinda, though her performance occasionally leans into caricature rather than character depth.
Visually, Wicked is breathtaking. The vibrant and intricate production design transports viewers to a fantastical Oz, from the emerald spires of the Emerald City to the mystical forests of Shiz University. Coupled with dazzling costume design and vivid CGI, the world feels alive and immersive.
However, the film does falter in pacing. At over two hours, certain scenes—particularly in the first act—feel overly drawn out, while others are rushed. Some of the musical numbers lose their emotional weight due to awkward transitions from dialogue to song, a challenge many stage-to-screen adaptations face.
Despite these shortcomings, Wicked soars where it matters most: its emotional core. The themes of friendship, identity, and the cost of doing what’s right resonate deeply. By the time the climactic “For Good” duet arrives, the film earns its tears and applause.
While not perfect, Wicked (2024) is a spellbinding adaptation that captures much of the magic of the original musical. Fans will walk away satisfied, and newcomers will find themselves enchanted. A solid 8/10.
The long-awaited Wicked movie finally graces the big screen in 2024, bringing the beloved Broadway musical to life with all the magic, heart, and soaring melodies that made it iconic. Directed by Jon M. Chu, this adaptation dives deep into the untold story of the witches of Oz, offering stunning visuals, powerhouse performances, and emotional depth that will captivate fans of the musical and newcomers alike.
The film explores the complex relationship between Elphaba (played by Cynthia Erivo), the misunderstood green-skinned girl who will become the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda (Ariana Grande), the glamorous and ambitious witch-in-training. Both actresses deliver strong performances, with Erivo’s soulful voice shining in ballads like “Defying Gravity” and “I’m Not That Girl.” Grande brings charm and humor to Glinda, though her performance occasionally leans into caricature rather than character depth.
Visually, Wicked is breathtaking. The vibrant and intricate production design transports viewers to a fantastical Oz, from the emerald spires of the Emerald City to the mystical forests of Shiz University. Coupled with dazzling costume design and vivid CGI, the world feels alive and immersive.
However, the film does falter in pacing. At over two hours, certain scenes—particularly in the first act—feel overly drawn out, while others are rushed. Some of the musical numbers lose their emotional weight due to awkward transitions from dialogue to song, a challenge many stage-to-screen adaptations face.
Despite these shortcomings, Wicked soars where it matters most: its emotional core. The themes of friendship, identity, and the cost of doing what’s right resonate deeply. By the time the climactic “For Good” duet arrives, the film earns its tears and applause.
While not perfect, Wicked (2024) is a spellbinding adaptation that captures much of the magic of the original musical. Fans will walk away satisfied, and newcomers will find themselves enchanted. A solid 8/10.
365Flicks (235 KP) rated Talking Earth (2017) in Movies
Nov 20, 2019
There is definitely a lot to be said about the Independent market right now (its bloody exciting). Every now and then you will come across an absolute gem of a movie and other times you will come across an absolute turdfest. I have been pretty lucky as of late that most of my picks are falling into the former. Now, this could be my ex Video Store clerk elitist personality shining through or maybe that clover my daughter shoved in my face along with a handful of grass really did have four leafs.
However Taking Earth has left me wondering (Dumbfounded even). I’m really not sure which bracket to put this flick in because it has all the hallmarks and some of the effects of a big budget summer blockbuster but the execution of a SyFy Sharknado style movie. I guess what i’m trying to say is that while I give this flick more credit than I feel it deserves I cant quite get to grips with how I felt about it.
Taking Earth is a Alien invasion movie set in the beautiful land of South Africa (Awesome accents and all). That’s about it really, all you need to know is that Aliens have invaded earth and they are looking for one boy in particular. We spend the bulk of the movie with David and Cameron two lads brought together after the invasion but Cameron holds a dangerous secret (Could he be the key to all of this) The duo must make there way to a safe zone while avoiding there hunters.
One of the things I liked about this movie was that it jumps straight in on the action, the invasion has happened and the cat and mouse chase is already in progress, this I liked. However I also kind of hated this because by the end of the flick (No spoilers) it felt like they were strongly hinting at a whole extended universe Before, During and After this movie that my guess is… we may not get to see (although the ending Screams sequel). I loved the fact that the movie was reportedly made for 5 million and to be completely fair to this first time Writer/Director/Editor it looks like it cost so much more, in fact I would say this movie looks better than 90% of those B-Movies we all seem to love these days.
The cast are all doing there best with the dialogue they have and delivering the best of it with such passion that it kind of makes it hard for me to shit on the flick. So this time I wont, but cross me agian!!!.
For me Taking Earth is a soft recommend, mostly because it screams expanded universe, this movie needs a prequel and screams for a sequel just to scratch the surface of the story I believe they want to tell… Would I watch either of them??? Probably not. The shining light is the unknown Cast and the Director are all invested and as a movie lover such as I am, I can not only respect them for it but I can also love them for it. There is a definite audience for this low budget movie with great effects and aspirations so like I say I think you should check it out… At your own risk!!!
Not exactly what I would call a Hidden Gem but by no means a Turdfest
However Taking Earth has left me wondering (Dumbfounded even). I’m really not sure which bracket to put this flick in because it has all the hallmarks and some of the effects of a big budget summer blockbuster but the execution of a SyFy Sharknado style movie. I guess what i’m trying to say is that while I give this flick more credit than I feel it deserves I cant quite get to grips with how I felt about it.
Taking Earth is a Alien invasion movie set in the beautiful land of South Africa (Awesome accents and all). That’s about it really, all you need to know is that Aliens have invaded earth and they are looking for one boy in particular. We spend the bulk of the movie with David and Cameron two lads brought together after the invasion but Cameron holds a dangerous secret (Could he be the key to all of this) The duo must make there way to a safe zone while avoiding there hunters.
One of the things I liked about this movie was that it jumps straight in on the action, the invasion has happened and the cat and mouse chase is already in progress, this I liked. However I also kind of hated this because by the end of the flick (No spoilers) it felt like they were strongly hinting at a whole extended universe Before, During and After this movie that my guess is… we may not get to see (although the ending Screams sequel). I loved the fact that the movie was reportedly made for 5 million and to be completely fair to this first time Writer/Director/Editor it looks like it cost so much more, in fact I would say this movie looks better than 90% of those B-Movies we all seem to love these days.
The cast are all doing there best with the dialogue they have and delivering the best of it with such passion that it kind of makes it hard for me to shit on the flick. So this time I wont, but cross me agian!!!.
For me Taking Earth is a soft recommend, mostly because it screams expanded universe, this movie needs a prequel and screams for a sequel just to scratch the surface of the story I believe they want to tell… Would I watch either of them??? Probably not. The shining light is the unknown Cast and the Director are all invested and as a movie lover such as I am, I can not only respect them for it but I can also love them for it. There is a definite audience for this low budget movie with great effects and aspirations so like I say I think you should check it out… At your own risk!!!
Not exactly what I would call a Hidden Gem but by no means a Turdfest
Sensitivemuse (246 KP) rated The Municipalists in Books
Sep 24, 2019
Watch the Friendship Bloom :)
I didn’t imagine I would like this novel much but in fact, I did. It’s a rather quick read but the adventure is quite the ride!
Henry starts off as an average, run of the mill model employee. He pretty much blends in the background and plays by the rules. Sounds uninteresting doesn’t it? He’s got a thing for trains and his past isn’t shining bright considering what happened to his parents. He’s a wallflower with a sad past and he just immerses himself into his work.
Then comes OWEN.
He changes Henry - a lot. Their friendship is laughable at first and off to a rocky start. (like most when you have an odd couple/opposites in a team) OWEN has wit and a rather unconventional way of solving things whereas Henry likes to stick with the rules. Yet it’s because of OWEN that Henry’s character develops and changes. They end up being a likable pair and they start growing on you despite the rather awkward start. OWEN does provide the comic relief in the story though, he’s a supercomputer you would not mind hanging out with.
The plot is straight to the point and there’s not much in the way of twists and turns. There are a few revelations here and there but it’s mainly about Henry and his view on the world and how it changes. That’s really the main point of the novel. There’s some action scenes and some intrigue but nothing over the top. There are going to be parts that pack a punch but it’s effective as you really do connect with both Henry and OWEN.
It’s a quick read and an enjoyable one, I say read it for character development and watching the friendship between Henry and OWEN- and enjoy it.
Henry starts off as an average, run of the mill model employee. He pretty much blends in the background and plays by the rules. Sounds uninteresting doesn’t it? He’s got a thing for trains and his past isn’t shining bright considering what happened to his parents. He’s a wallflower with a sad past and he just immerses himself into his work.
Then comes OWEN.
He changes Henry - a lot. Their friendship is laughable at first and off to a rocky start. (like most when you have an odd couple/opposites in a team) OWEN has wit and a rather unconventional way of solving things whereas Henry likes to stick with the rules. Yet it’s because of OWEN that Henry’s character develops and changes. They end up being a likable pair and they start growing on you despite the rather awkward start. OWEN does provide the comic relief in the story though, he’s a supercomputer you would not mind hanging out with.
The plot is straight to the point and there’s not much in the way of twists and turns. There are a few revelations here and there but it’s mainly about Henry and his view on the world and how it changes. That’s really the main point of the novel. There’s some action scenes and some intrigue but nothing over the top. There are going to be parts that pack a punch but it’s effective as you really do connect with both Henry and OWEN.
It’s a quick read and an enjoyable one, I say read it for character development and watching the friendship between Henry and OWEN- and enjoy it.
Like Driftwood On The Salish Sea
Book
When they met in the fourth grade, it was love at first sight for Mitchell Brody and Jessica...
Contemporary Military
Phillip McSween (751 KP) rated Machete (2010) in Movies
Jan 19, 2018
Fun Watch
Machete was a bit of a miss for me. I understood the direction that directors Ethan Maniquis and Robert Rodriguez were heading for. I just didn't quite...get it. As a salesperson, I'm taught to push the "why", not the "how". For me, the "why" of this film left a lot to be desired.
It's not that I didn't like Machete, rather it didn't hook me. Half cheesy action film, half telenovela, it definitely has some shining moments. Danny Trejo (Machete) plays a tough badass as he does in most films. His hardcore attitude makes him instantly lovable and they give him more attitude than ever in this role. Not only does he destroy a lot of tough guys, he manages to find time to slay the ladies as well. Oh yes, the ladies love Machete and Machete loves the ladies.
Props to Robert De Niro as well in his role as The Senator. Hearing his country accent makes you almost forgot this was the same guy that said, "You talkin' to me?" (Taxi Driver is on my list for this October!). You're supposed to hate him as he plays a villain, but you can't help but love him at the same time.
A handful of action sequences left me with raised eyebrows. My favorite in particular was Cheech Marin in the church with the double shotgun action. Talk about money!
Fun movie and worth at least one watch. Seeing Machete seek revenge on The Senator after being double-crossed (the plot) managed to keep me entertained but not quite jumping-for-joy excited. I give it a solid 76.
It's not that I didn't like Machete, rather it didn't hook me. Half cheesy action film, half telenovela, it definitely has some shining moments. Danny Trejo (Machete) plays a tough badass as he does in most films. His hardcore attitude makes him instantly lovable and they give him more attitude than ever in this role. Not only does he destroy a lot of tough guys, he manages to find time to slay the ladies as well. Oh yes, the ladies love Machete and Machete loves the ladies.
Props to Robert De Niro as well in his role as The Senator. Hearing his country accent makes you almost forgot this was the same guy that said, "You talkin' to me?" (Taxi Driver is on my list for this October!). You're supposed to hate him as he plays a villain, but you can't help but love him at the same time.
A handful of action sequences left me with raised eyebrows. My favorite in particular was Cheech Marin in the church with the double shotgun action. Talk about money!
Fun movie and worth at least one watch. Seeing Machete seek revenge on The Senator after being double-crossed (the plot) managed to keep me entertained but not quite jumping-for-joy excited. I give it a solid 76.
LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated Krampus (2015) in Movies
Dec 15, 2020
Krampus is an absolute gem of a Christmas movie. It manages to pack in a bit of festive spirit, whilst simultaneously being a fun-as-hell horror ride, and has enough strikingly creepy imagery, ensuring it satisfies horror fans, and potentially a slightly younger audience at the same time.
The first third is sort of a comedy, as the characters are introduced against the familiar backdrop of having the dreaded experience of extended family over for the holidays. The cast are all great - Adam Scott, David Koechner, Allison Tolman, Conchata Ferrell and Krista Stacker all carve out personas with their own unique traits, and all do it in a relatble manner. The shining star is of course Toni Collette, who just manages to be fantastic in everything she's in, even a silly comedy horror like Krampus. The kid actors are great as well, especially Emjay Anthony as lead character Max.
When the horror starts to unfold, it's executed in a sort of gateway-horror style. It's fun enough to appeal to a younger audience as mentioned, but still has creepy moments. For instance, when the titular Krampus is first glimpsed, bounding across rooftops in a blizzard, it's a striking visual that manages to be quite haunting. The whole aesthetic is fantastic, festive one minute, dark and cold the next, with an almost Nightmare Before Christmas look to all of the monsters. Krampus himself looks horrifying when he is finally revealed in all his demonic yuletide glory. There's also an incredibly charming animated segment around the midway point that just adds even more to the overall experience.
If you're looking for an alternative Christmas movie, then you can do a lot worse than Krampus. It's hugely entertaining and memorable, and just a good time all round, and the best movie to include a scene involving murderous gingerbread men (sorry Gingerbread Man...)
The first third is sort of a comedy, as the characters are introduced against the familiar backdrop of having the dreaded experience of extended family over for the holidays. The cast are all great - Adam Scott, David Koechner, Allison Tolman, Conchata Ferrell and Krista Stacker all carve out personas with their own unique traits, and all do it in a relatble manner. The shining star is of course Toni Collette, who just manages to be fantastic in everything she's in, even a silly comedy horror like Krampus. The kid actors are great as well, especially Emjay Anthony as lead character Max.
When the horror starts to unfold, it's executed in a sort of gateway-horror style. It's fun enough to appeal to a younger audience as mentioned, but still has creepy moments. For instance, when the titular Krampus is first glimpsed, bounding across rooftops in a blizzard, it's a striking visual that manages to be quite haunting. The whole aesthetic is fantastic, festive one minute, dark and cold the next, with an almost Nightmare Before Christmas look to all of the monsters. Krampus himself looks horrifying when he is finally revealed in all his demonic yuletide glory. There's also an incredibly charming animated segment around the midway point that just adds even more to the overall experience.
If you're looking for an alternative Christmas movie, then you can do a lot worse than Krampus. It's hugely entertaining and memorable, and just a good time all round, and the best movie to include a scene involving murderous gingerbread men (sorry Gingerbread Man...)
The Kama Sutra of Work: Why Work is the New Sex and How to Make Sure You're Getting Enough
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What would you do if you thought you would have to work - and make your own money - forever? You...
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'Goethe called colour the deeds and sufferings of the light - victorious deeds when it pierces...