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Chris Sawin (602 KP) rated Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (1984) in Movies
Jun 20, 2019 (Updated Jun 21, 2019)
An axe to the head was surely enough to stop Jason Voorhees in the last film, right? Wrong. After taking care of a few orderlies at the hospital his "corpse" was taken to, Jason sets his sights on Tommy Jarvis, his family, and the group of teenagers who came to party at the house next door. Tommy loves to make monster masks and loves video games. He could be the key ingredient to Jason's downfall.
This is actually another one of my favorite films of the franchise. The main reason being that the kills in this film are arguably the best so far and quite possibly the best of the franchise. Jason must have a thing against Crispin Glover though or maybe he just saw him having a spasm and seizure fit in the living room earlier on in the film. Nevertheless, I've never seen any one victim in the franchise get as much punishment as he did. First, a corkscrew in the hand and followed by a meat cleaver to the face. As if that wasn't enough, Jason nails up his corpse over one of the doorways by his hands and feet to block anyone from escaping. Then later on, rips him down the hard way.
Another interesting kill is the shower scene. What makes it a bit more unique is that it's a guy who bites it this time around. Face-palmed to death by Jason's massive hand. Jason's "death" is also quite grotesque and spectacular. Tommy Jarvis swings a machete into the side of Jason's head and Jason falls to the ground landing face first onto the handle of the machete causing it to slide through his skull. The weirdest part of the film has to be when the dog jumps through the glass window. I mean...what the heck?
This is actually another one of my favorite films of the franchise. The main reason being that the kills in this film are arguably the best so far and quite possibly the best of the franchise. Jason must have a thing against Crispin Glover though or maybe he just saw him having a spasm and seizure fit in the living room earlier on in the film. Nevertheless, I've never seen any one victim in the franchise get as much punishment as he did. First, a corkscrew in the hand and followed by a meat cleaver to the face. As if that wasn't enough, Jason nails up his corpse over one of the doorways by his hands and feet to block anyone from escaping. Then later on, rips him down the hard way.
Another interesting kill is the shower scene. What makes it a bit more unique is that it's a guy who bites it this time around. Face-palmed to death by Jason's massive hand. Jason's "death" is also quite grotesque and spectacular. Tommy Jarvis swings a machete into the side of Jason's head and Jason falls to the ground landing face first onto the handle of the machete causing it to slide through his skull. The weirdest part of the film has to be when the dog jumps through the glass window. I mean...what the heck?
Mothergamer (1586 KP) rated the PlayStation 4 version of Assassin's Creed: Odyssey in Video Games
Dec 10, 2018
Great Game
Odyssey is definitely a bit different from the games before it, but that's not a bad thing. The story hooks you in right from the start and the game mechanics work well. You can play as either Alexios or Kassandra and it doesn't change the story at all; it's just a matter of preference. The world map is huge to the point where it can be a little overwhelming, but you can take it a little at a time since each area shows you what level you need to be. There are a ton of side missions, legendary hunts, and mythological monster fights as well as the main story quests. There are epic naval battles and conquest battles as well which are a lot of fun. Half the fun for me was just exploring all of ancient Greece. There is so much to see and do. The game is not completely perfect. There were game breaking bugs. The biggest one is the game dropping frames and freezing completely while in enemy forts. The only solution to it is to close the game completely and restart it. There are also audio sync issues sometimes in the game where the voices are not synced with the character talking. Other than that, the game is great. It's a lot of fun to play, the story and characters are interesting, and it offers a variety of things to do in the game like crafting better armor and weapons for yourself. Once the main story is done, there's still tons of things to do and with the upcoming DLC there will be even more to do. Overall, it's a great game.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Cat and Mouse (Alex Cross, #4) in Books
Jul 22, 2019
Another brilliant Alex Cross
Contains spoilers, click to show
Alex Cross is back-and so is a raging and suicidal Gary Soneji. Out of prison and dying from the AIDS virus he contracted there, he will get revenge on Cross before he dies. In addition, we are introduced to a new pair of rivals whose paths cross that of Alex and Soneji. Thomas Augustine Pierce has been chasing his demon, Mr. Smith, since the savage murder of his fiancee. Mr. Smith is a unique monster, with actions toward his victims so insane-so unimaginable-that he is thought of as "not of the earth." Pierce, known in the business as St. Augustine because of his track record for catching killers and his invaluable status to the FBI and Interpol, may even be better than Cross.When things heat up and Alex is in a near-death coma following an attack in his own home, Pierce goes to Washington to help with the investigation. But just as he begins to piece together the mystery of how Gary Soneji could have mortally wounded Cross after he was believed to be dead, he is summoned to Paris with a postcard from Mr. Smith inviting him to a very special killing.The body count is high, the tension the highest, and the two killers on the loose are watching every move their pursuers make. Who is the cat, and who is the mouse? What and where is the final trap? And who survives?
This is a reread and one of my favourites from James Patterson. I love Alex Cross and the characters in these books. Patterson is such a brilliant writer.
I cheered as he finally got Soneji that evil SOB needed taking down! I do think Smith was quite easy to pick out from the start.
On to the next Alex Cross book .
Recommended

This is a reread and one of my favourites from James Patterson. I love Alex Cross and the characters in these books. Patterson is such a brilliant writer.
I cheered as he finally got Soneji that evil SOB needed taking down! I do think Smith was quite easy to pick out from the start.
On to the next Alex Cross book .
Recommended

Gareth von Kallenbach (980 KP) rated Where the Wild Things Are (2009) in Movies
Aug 9, 2019
A film adaptation of Maurice Sandak’s beloved childhood tale of the same name, “Where the Wild Things Are” brings to life the worlds of Max a very imaginative child coming to grips with the emotional changes in his life. From his mom’s new boyfriend to his sister’s move into the teen years, Max is feeling very alone and runs away to a place where his needs are the first priority. In his world, Max is crowned king and he begins to deal with the issues of his real life through interaction and play with a variety of wildly imaginative monsters.
Taking a short children’s book and turning it into a compelling full-length film was the job of screenplay writers, David Eggers and Spike Jonzes, who also directed the picture. Among the film’s producers was Sandak and it shows. The film is seamlessly consistent with the original book while providing new and exciting content.
The roles are strongly cast from the lead of Max played by the up and coming Max Records, to that of the monster Carol voiced by James Gandolfini. The visual fantasy presented combines real and digital elements smoothly enough to accurately depict Max’s imagination while remaining realistic to the point of believability. Additionally, the fun yet abstract soundtrack manages to highlight the ups and downs of childhood exploration.
Seeming more like a masterpiece from Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki than an American created live action children’s film, the detailed crafting and imaginatively honest perspective created by “Where the Wild Things Are” takes viewers back into their youth. A delight that is enjoyable, heartfelt and true to the spirit of the book, “Where the Wild Things Are”, is a must see film for any child inside or out.
Taking a short children’s book and turning it into a compelling full-length film was the job of screenplay writers, David Eggers and Spike Jonzes, who also directed the picture. Among the film’s producers was Sandak and it shows. The film is seamlessly consistent with the original book while providing new and exciting content.
The roles are strongly cast from the lead of Max played by the up and coming Max Records, to that of the monster Carol voiced by James Gandolfini. The visual fantasy presented combines real and digital elements smoothly enough to accurately depict Max’s imagination while remaining realistic to the point of believability. Additionally, the fun yet abstract soundtrack manages to highlight the ups and downs of childhood exploration.
Seeming more like a masterpiece from Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki than an American created live action children’s film, the detailed crafting and imaginatively honest perspective created by “Where the Wild Things Are” takes viewers back into their youth. A delight that is enjoyable, heartfelt and true to the spirit of the book, “Where the Wild Things Are”, is a must see film for any child inside or out.
Lindsay (1774 KP) rated Eye of the Eagle in Books
Jan 19, 2019
Well when you first open this book, you think oh another romance like every other one that happens in the office. The author put us in for a what would be typical but it nothing like a typical romance book. I really do like that this not all romance. There is action involved and even some power in followed.
You seem to get not only spiritual powers and some Native American culture but you get a story or plot full of government talents and bring in someone new and really cute looking. Then there a budding romance before they leave the office.
This got all kinds of powers involved. The hero and Heroine become a team. What you do if someone could eagle shifter? He looks human and act all human? What does a little ugly man doing? We seem to have it all.
It starts out with a child missing and no other then Bert's family member. He does not want his boss to come. She intents on want to go with him. She determine to help. Things start to happen as soon as they get here at the hotel. She has secrets as well has Bret Blackfeather? What are Phoebes and her mother secrets? Seems not all now about his secret other then family possibly.
The characters are created and developed quite well. I love that we learn more each character though out the story. We do not get all them until the end of the book. We got not only the bad guys but also the good guys in full development.
Is Bert family in danger and why? Seem the US Senator daughter get caught up with someone from Bert past and with an enemy of the US. The Monster as Phoebe calls him see to be into human tracking and other crimes.
You seem to get not only spiritual powers and some Native American culture but you get a story or plot full of government talents and bring in someone new and really cute looking. Then there a budding romance before they leave the office.
This got all kinds of powers involved. The hero and Heroine become a team. What you do if someone could eagle shifter? He looks human and act all human? What does a little ugly man doing? We seem to have it all.
It starts out with a child missing and no other then Bert's family member. He does not want his boss to come. She intents on want to go with him. She determine to help. Things start to happen as soon as they get here at the hotel. She has secrets as well has Bret Blackfeather? What are Phoebes and her mother secrets? Seems not all now about his secret other then family possibly.
The characters are created and developed quite well. I love that we learn more each character though out the story. We do not get all them until the end of the book. We got not only the bad guys but also the good guys in full development.
Is Bert family in danger and why? Seem the US Senator daughter get caught up with someone from Bert past and with an enemy of the US. The Monster as Phoebe calls him see to be into human tracking and other crimes.
LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated The Descent (2005) in Movies
Nov 23, 2019 (Updated Nov 23, 2019)
I remember first watching The Descent not long after it came out. I was in my late teens and it was smack bang in the middle of a weird time for horror, where there was just a lot of dross being fired out every other week.
The Descent was a breath of fresh air in that respect. The set up hooks you in almost immediately, with an familiar yet effective tragedy strikes Sarah, one of our heroines. A while later, a group of friends manage convince Sarah to join them on a vacation in North Carolina, where they plan to explore an underground cave system.
You know how these things go by now - everything goes wrong and before long, the group are fighting to survive.
The thing is, it takes a while for the Descent to show it's true hand when it comes to anything other worldly. It's effectively scary before any monsters show up, using extreme claustrophobia, and low visibility to throw the viewer into the tense unknown.
The first time you see a monster made me jump out of my seat, and jump scares don't get me very often. From there in out, the movie shifts from subtle horror, to all out terror and panic. It's all pretty thrilling.
The all female cast are great. They feel real and relatable, and sell the situation perfectly.
It's Neil Marshall showing that he does know what he's doing in his otherwise mixed bag of a back catalogue.
Some of the effects used are looking pretty dated by this point, but it's not enough to detract from an otherwise positive horror experience, and of course, that ending... (I believe it was changed for US audiences). It's bleak and ballsy and adds a cherry on top. Definitely worth seeking out the unchanged version if you like horror!
The Descent was a breath of fresh air in that respect. The set up hooks you in almost immediately, with an familiar yet effective tragedy strikes Sarah, one of our heroines. A while later, a group of friends manage convince Sarah to join them on a vacation in North Carolina, where they plan to explore an underground cave system.
You know how these things go by now - everything goes wrong and before long, the group are fighting to survive.
The thing is, it takes a while for the Descent to show it's true hand when it comes to anything other worldly. It's effectively scary before any monsters show up, using extreme claustrophobia, and low visibility to throw the viewer into the tense unknown.
The first time you see a monster made me jump out of my seat, and jump scares don't get me very often. From there in out, the movie shifts from subtle horror, to all out terror and panic. It's all pretty thrilling.
The all female cast are great. They feel real and relatable, and sell the situation perfectly.
It's Neil Marshall showing that he does know what he's doing in his otherwise mixed bag of a back catalogue.
Some of the effects used are looking pretty dated by this point, but it's not enough to detract from an otherwise positive horror experience, and of course, that ending... (I believe it was changed for US audiences). It's bleak and ballsy and adds a cherry on top. Definitely worth seeking out the unchanged version if you like horror!
Merissa (13176 KP) rated Hunt the Dragon Within (The Journals of Ravier #2) in Books
Apr 10, 2020
HUNT THE DRAGON WITHIN is the second book in The Journals of Muraine series and we continue where book one left off. Soren is causing chaos, Talok is stuck with a bracelet he doesn't want, and Tyler is just trying to make sense of it all AND cope with the powers he appears to have now.
Now, if you've read my review for book one, you will know I found the constant use of numbers confusing. (Numbers are a foreign language, after all!) I'm pleased to say this isn't such an issue here as the author concentrates more on things that are happening. I do love the 'Thirteen, Done' part of it though!
There is a love-triangle forming which I hope is sorted out soon! I know they are popular with a lot of people but I just find them irritating. 😁 This only takes up a small part of the story though. Mainly it is about what is going on around them and what they need to do to stop Talok turning into a monster.
I have to say - this is one heckuva ride! There are more twists and turns than you would find at a theme park and I loved every part of it. It certainly kept my interest from beginning to end. Because of this I would say you need to set aside a good amount of time to be able to read it. I don't think just spot-reading here and there would do you any favours.
Book one was very good, this one is great. I can't wait to read book three and see if the trend continues. I have high hopes! Absolutely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Now, if you've read my review for book one, you will know I found the constant use of numbers confusing. (Numbers are a foreign language, after all!) I'm pleased to say this isn't such an issue here as the author concentrates more on things that are happening. I do love the 'Thirteen, Done' part of it though!
There is a love-triangle forming which I hope is sorted out soon! I know they are popular with a lot of people but I just find them irritating. 😁 This only takes up a small part of the story though. Mainly it is about what is going on around them and what they need to do to stop Talok turning into a monster.
I have to say - this is one heckuva ride! There are more twists and turns than you would find at a theme park and I loved every part of it. It certainly kept my interest from beginning to end. Because of this I would say you need to set aside a good amount of time to be able to read it. I don't think just spot-reading here and there would do you any favours.
Book one was very good, this one is great. I can't wait to read book three and see if the trend continues. I have high hopes! Absolutely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Tim McGuire (301 KP) rated Cold Skin (2017) in Movies
Apr 20, 2020
Movie Monster Fun
421. Cold Skin. A pretty kick ass creature feature. Strange and bizarre, I loved it. Welcome to a tiny island located in the Antarctic Circle, and today arrives the new Weather Observer, I guess it's exactly as it sounds. He's supposed to be replacing the old Weather Observer, but he's nowhere to be found, so he heads on over to the light house to meet the islands only other inhabitant, Gruner, the light house keeper, he's like 'he went out one night, never saw him again'. No help there, so Friend heads to his new place, oh yea that's how Gruner refers to the Weather Observer. His sets up his cottage to his liking, and then night comes, and with it comes a scratching at the door, a banging at the window, someones on the roof, and a webbed hand reaching under the door! Friend dives into a cellar protecting himself for the night. Once daylight hits, Friend heads over to Gruner's and he fills him in, yea that happens most nights, and he seems to be ok with it, after all he is played by The Punisher, Ray Stevenson! The two come to work together in a very uneasy alliance, after all it turns out Gruner has a roommate, one of the local inhabitants, only this one is female, and they're close... Friend comes to the conclusion of, maybe the creatures are coming for her, Gruner is like, there's the door. So each night, creatures from the deep come and attack the lighthouse for... reasons? Probably not a movie for everyone, however, if you like them on the oddball side check it out!! Filmbufftim on FB.
LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated Crawl (2019) in Movies
Feb 16, 2020
Crawl is silly. Like a lot of these types of horrors, it's really silly.
In short, hurricane season hits Florida, and when Haley sets of to find her father, they both end up stuck in the crawlspace under his house, trapped in by large alligators, and rapidly rising flood water.
It's straightforward, no messing around, and gets right to the characters being in peril. For the most part, it's a neat little thriller, that actually has the odd moment in tension, paired with decent performances from Kaya Scodelario and Barry Pepper.
The relationship between their two characters carry the film pretty well, and the actors resolve to stay muddy and soaked throughout is admirable.
The CGI effects are pretty terrible. Nowhere near Sharknado levels of embarrassing, but the small budget of Crawl really shows it's ugly head when it comes to the alligators. When they're in water, it doesn't look so awful, but out of water, they look ripped from a PlayStation 3 cutscenes. This includes the first time we see one, which significantly reduces the impact it could have had, especially after it comes immediately after a pretty good jump scare.
In terms of horror, Crawl isn't scary. As mentioned above, it's more a jump scare type of deal, but they're actually quite effective, and just about reigned in enough to not overdo it. The scariest thing about the movie is mother nature, with all too real stormy conditions on display.
Crawl is mostly enjoyable, buts it's not as fun as The Meg for example (5/10) and not quite as good as The Shallows (6/10) so it sits nicely somewhere in between. Worth a watch if you enjoy a silly monster horror now and again.
In short, hurricane season hits Florida, and when Haley sets of to find her father, they both end up stuck in the crawlspace under his house, trapped in by large alligators, and rapidly rising flood water.
It's straightforward, no messing around, and gets right to the characters being in peril. For the most part, it's a neat little thriller, that actually has the odd moment in tension, paired with decent performances from Kaya Scodelario and Barry Pepper.
The relationship between their two characters carry the film pretty well, and the actors resolve to stay muddy and soaked throughout is admirable.
The CGI effects are pretty terrible. Nowhere near Sharknado levels of embarrassing, but the small budget of Crawl really shows it's ugly head when it comes to the alligators. When they're in water, it doesn't look so awful, but out of water, they look ripped from a PlayStation 3 cutscenes. This includes the first time we see one, which significantly reduces the impact it could have had, especially after it comes immediately after a pretty good jump scare.
In terms of horror, Crawl isn't scary. As mentioned above, it's more a jump scare type of deal, but they're actually quite effective, and just about reigned in enough to not overdo it. The scariest thing about the movie is mother nature, with all too real stormy conditions on display.
Crawl is mostly enjoyable, buts it's not as fun as The Meg for example (5/10) and not quite as good as The Shallows (6/10) so it sits nicely somewhere in between. Worth a watch if you enjoy a silly monster horror now and again.
Hopeless 2: Cave Escape
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Welcome to the new and improved Hopeless 2: Cave Escape! The blobs are back! Do you have what it...