This is a list of every film I've watched this year, in chronological order. I used to make these lists to chronicle films released in a specific year only, but I've been wanting to record my thoughts on every movie I watch because I enjoy analyzing films and writing reviews. So from now on, the lists will include films from both past and present. I'm doing 100 films per page. Use the links below to navigate efficiently.
#1 - Let The Right One In [2008]
Trailer
Date Watched: 1/3/15
A bleak but strangely romantic horror film. The juxtaposition between the bloodletting and the romance is jarring but effective, thanks to excellent performances from the young leads. The snowy scenery adds to the dread and claustrophobia.
Rating: 8.5/10
#2 - Serpico [1973]
Trailer
Date Watched: 1/8/15
An all-time cop classic propelled by Al Pacino's valiant and harrowing performance. It's gritty, but not in the modern sense.
Rating: 8.5/10
#3 - Inherent Vice [2015]
Date Watched: 1/9/15
While I don't think it's his best work (that distinction goes to either Boogie Nights or There Will Be Blood), this is still a delightfully subversive tale from P.T. Anderson, one of our most talented contemporary filmmakers. It's equal parts detective story and drug-induced farce, with odd, hilarious things occurring with no rhyme or reason that just reinforce the 'go-with-the-flow' style storytelling. This results in a film that will confuse and bewilder people, frustrated at the lack of traditional narrative structure and pacing. I'm sure someone will dub it "Incoherent Vice". But this doesn't make it a bad film, not by any stretch of the imagination. For what it's worth, I had no trouble following it and it held my undivided attention for all 148 minutes.
Rating: 8/10
#4 - American Sniper
Date Watched: 1/9/15
Clint Eastwood's best film since Gran Torino, anchored by a quietly compelling performance from Bradley Cooper. It feels like a companion piece to 2009's The Hurt Locker not only visually but also in terms of deftly balancing drama and action without feeling forced or histrionic.
Rating: 8.5/10
#5 - Boyhood
Date Watched: 1/12/15
The idea behind Boyhood, to tell a coming-of-age story using one actor filmed over a period of 12 years, is uniquely ambitious. It required finding a young lead to grow with, a producer crazy enough to finance it and the patience to edit it into a fully-realized motion picture. If anyone could do it, Richard Linklater can. He is one of my favorite filmmakers. He knows how to capture these perfect moments in time in such a stripped-down, relatable way. They're brimming with realism thanks to the consistently spot-on casting, especially of young actors. Dazed And Confused and School of Rock come to mind. Boyhood proves Linklater's prowess in choosing the right kid for the role yet again.
Rating: 9/10
#6 - Foxcatcher
Date Watched: 1/12/15
Slow and visually bland, but redeemed by career best performances from Steve Carrell and Channing Tatum. I don't think this is Oscar-worthy material, especially Bennett Miller's direction. Miller is a slow, methodical filmmaker which was on display in Moneyball, but Foxcatcher feels plodding and visually stagnant.
Rating: 7/10
#7 - Big Bad Wolves [2013]
Date Watched: 1/12/15
An entertaining Israeli revenge thriller that follows three men caught up in the disappearance and murder of a young girl. Stories like these are a dime a dozen because they can usually be made on the cheap with a small cast. Big Bad Wolves differentiates itself from the pack by injecting black humor into the goings-on and not shying away from the disgusting subject matter. The cast is excellent, especially Rotem Keinan as the torturee. He really sells the desperation and his performance only reinforces the film's theme that appearances can be deceiving. Despite the gritty subject matter, the film has a very polished look that I liked. Definitely worth a look if it sounds interesting to you, plus it's available on Netflix.
Rating: 7/10
#8 - The Imitation Game
Date Watched: 1/15/15
Man, Benedict Cumberbatch is EVERYWHERE. Here he's in fine form, channeling an intriguing combination of his brilliant version of Sherlock Holmes and John Nash. The historical aspects are interesting and don't get bogged down.
Rating: 8.5/10
#9 - Selma
I thought this one was going to be overly melodramatic but it ended up being surprisingly good, thanks to the non-preachy storytelling and David Oyelowo's fantastic performance. I agree with all the fuss about him not getting an Oscar nomination. Personally, I didn't think it deserved to be nominated for Best Picture considering that Oyelowo is the only thing about it that was truly impressive. Ava DuVernay's direction is adequate at best and the script is rudimentary. All the people clamoring for her to be nominated only need look past the color of her skin to see how unremarkable her direction is.
Rating: 8/10
#10 - Whiplash
J.K. Simmons gives an amazing performance as a volatile music teacher who uses all sorts of emotional and physical abuse to get the best from his students. It's jarring but you find yourself siding with his methods.
Rating: 9/10
#11 - The Theory of Everything
Date Watched: 1/21/15
While it features some outstanding performances from Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones, The Theory of Everything's rudimentary script follows the typical Hollywood biopic formula to its own detriment. It's more of a romance than a factual biopic, taking some artistic liberties and dumbing down or excluding some of the science Hawking was famous for. It's still a good watch and the relationship angle is very believable thanks to Redmayne's and Jones' wonderful chemistry. Visually, it stands above almost all other biopics, brimming with earthy cinematography and some nifty shot choices.
Rating: 7/10
#12 - NausicaƤ of the Valley of the Wind [1984]
Date Watched: 1/21/15
Wow. I had heard all the praise and love for Hayao Miyazaki...I just didn't think I'd be THIS impressed. I'm blown away by how magnificent his films are. Marvelous beauty and splendor infused into engrossing stories and amazing adventures. The animation is downright gorgeous to look at and it entrances you, holding your gaze for long time.
Miyazaki's second film NausicaƤ of the Valley of the Wind was a great introduction for me. Based on his manga of the same name, it takes place in a post-apocalyptic world that has been infested by giant mutant insects. It follows young princess NausicaƤ as she tries to stop an invading kingdom from destroying the insects. This is a beautiful journey about the balance of nature and the destructiveness of man. The visuals are just beautiful and the airships and gliders are so cool and I wish I had one.
Rating: 10/10
#13 - Big Eyes
Date Watched: 1/22/15
Similar to director Tim Burton's Ed Wood, Big Eyes tells the untold story of an obscure and under-appreciated artist who never got any respect. It follows Margaret Keane, a woman who's famous big-eyed paintings were passed off as her manipulative husband's work. Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz give excellent performances, especially Waltz whose undeniable charisma shines through as it always does. As far as Tim Burton movies go, it's his most tame visually and thematically, but it shows that Burton is skilled no matter what genre he works in, particularly comedy. I was getting a little worried about Burton casting Johnny Depp in nearly everything he made (both good and bad), so it's refreshing to see him work with different and better talent. Well worth a watch.
Rating: 8.5/10
#14 - Castle In The Sky [1986]
Date Watched: 1/22/15
My jaw dropped...it literally dropped at one point during this movie. That's a rare occurence for me when watching a film, but my god Castle In The Sky is just incredible. I was mindblown (coining that now!). My second Miyazaki film (after Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind) impressed and enthralled me in so many wonderful ways that I want to talk about. So here goes:
- The awe-inspiringly beautiful animation and imagery
- The majestically epic musical score
- The superbly fleshed out and voice acted characters
- The killer world-building (even with the little details and backgrounds - like the houses built into the cliffs and having to keep watch really make the world feel deep and alive)
- The wildly creative technology and weapons:
- Laputa
- Laputa Robots - bitchin' indestructible mechanical monsters with explosive laser vision that can fly. Their creepy lurch made them feel insect-like at times and their simple yet asymmetrical faces are disquieting
- Goliath
- Dragonfly skiffs
- Other airships
- Guns
- Steam-powered technology
- Etherium, a new floating element
- Very Star Wars-like (Nightwatch outfits remind me of Empire Strikes Back Hoth soldiers with the goggles, the warp speed, star-bending feel)
- Laputa itself is like Atlantis or Shangra-Li, this undiscovered and untouched mythical world. But it's also a powerful and destructive weapon. Parts of it are reminiscent of certain Super Mario Bros. levels (which came out in 1985...this was '86 so coincidence or slight homage? Either way it's cool)
- WWI style military with the pointed helmets
- Pirate themes and motifs
- The combat animation is eye-popping, just absolutely gorgeous
- Despite flying and soaring through the clouds, it sometimes has a distinct, deliberate nautical feel only enhanced by the animation. Also the underwater cave scene felt like outer space. Miyazaki's ability to subtly create this is just fabulous.
- The Laputa reveal, masked in the clouds with two different winds blowing opposite directions was ominous but exciting, a neat combo. Once inside the clouds they enter a type of warped dimension with fucking DRAGON LIGHTNING that briefly transcends time at what feel like warp speed
- Had to have influenced Bioshock Infinite
I haven't been this impressed by a film in a long time. This is the start of something special.
Rating: 10/10
#15 - Princess Mononoke [1997]
Date Watched: 1/23/15
Yet another masterpiece from Miyazaki. Death and decay monster reminded me of John Carpenter's The Thing SO MUCH! Love the Feudal Japan feel and the character of Ashitaki, who is the true protagonist of the story. The titular character is fabulous as well. I really dug the violence and anti-destruction message. The visuals were stunningly trippy at times, especially scenes with the forest spirit.
Vibrant colors, outstanding animation during the action and battle scenes. So kinetic and well-framed. The kodoma (rattlehead pygmys) are weird but strangely adorable.
Vibrant colors, outstanding animation during the action and battle scenes. So kinetic and well-framed. The kodoma (rattlehead pygmys) are weird but strangely adorable.
Rating: 10/10
#16 - Spirited Away [2001]
Date Watched: 1/24/15
How good can one guy be? Miyazaki puts so much care and effort into every single frame of his films. They are works of art. Spirited Away finally nabbed him the recognition he deserved, and rightfully so. It is another phenomenal journey into a world of spirits, monsters and creatures bizarre. A young girl gets pulled into this world after her parents make a pitstop, and she must find and fight her way back to them.
(dictated to iPhone)
Beautiful animation just incredible when she goes into the spirit world
Turning her parents into pigs was reflective of their gluttonous behavior
The docking up the ferry ship is wild
All the background characters are just wonderful, kinda like Mos Isley Cantina in Star Wars. Enormous blobs little tiny creatures giant chickens floating ghosts
While the little spiders producing the coal are so cool and cute. The boiler master is very spider-like and to have The boiler room shown first makes sense both from an engineering standpoint it and it's a cool thematic introduction
The Bathouse is so colorful and creative. It's a new unique location we do not have here in the US
Each level has its own guide. Boiler man then the lady in pink and then the fat white walrus guy
The bouncing green heads are nuts
I love the design of Yubaba. her giant head implies she's intelligent kind a like Edna mode from the incredibles
She's scary. I dig the casual use of all her witch powers. Her taking her signature literally is such a unique idea. She literally flies incredible
Dialogue is so sparse, but it's so nice because you can just look at everything in the background
Being trapped in a place by not knowing your own name, that's just neat
Stink spirit what a cool thing reminds me of the Galdamath or whatever from dogma. It was full of garbage, Gold, and filth like a Tigershark eats everything and then that weird decayed head and jawbone wow it's like a giant dragon thing. Herbal bath was wild.
The black ghost blob is like a demon. A lot of the seven deadly sin seem to be represented: gluttony sloth and greed. His name is no face and once he becomes huge that Chase through the bathhouse is awesome.
I love the train being able to travel through the water. A lot of his movies have an aquatic theme I love it
The fact that she has a twin sister which reminds me of the Wizard of Oz.
When Yubaba got really pissed that was terrifying with the flames coming out of her mouth and her hair twirling around
Rating: 10/10
#17 - The Castle of Cagliostro [1979]
Date Watched: 1/25/15
Another rip-roaring adventure that is considerably more straightforward but just as exciting. It follows master thief Lupin as he tries to rescue a beautiful woman being held hostage by a ruthless and calculating despot.
(dictated to iPhone)
Love the score already. Kinda has a bank heist type feel, also 70s spy thrillers
This car chase is incredible very kinetic
He's got a grappling hook!
That ring crest and deserted burnt out castle are totally beautiful
His films are filled with such imagination!
"Light and Shadow will not recombine and revive"
The hand-to-hand combat with the medieval weapons is awesome. It goes from ancient weapons to modern weapons like guns and bombs very quickly. I dig it.
Holy shit the car chase where the ninja assassins are hanging on the car was very reminiscent of the car chase when they escape Pescadero in Terminator 2. They even have a piece of them stuck to the vehicle afterwards.
I really like the editing and pacing of this one it's very deliberate
I like that the castle has all these little booby traps and sections that are old and dilapidated that Lupun and his friend are hiding in. They do a straight up James Bond style break-in. Fucking love it
The scene where he climbs and then runs down the building and jumps over like 50 feet wild
The hell tunnel it's pretty gnarly. All the skeletons in decomposing remains, plus the underwater tunnels lined with bones like a labyrinth of death.
The blonde commando in the green camo outfit is hot as hell
Attempted Aerial rescue was neat, and having their ship on fire but still useful was beautiful looking
Him crashing the wedding was awesome and the chase through the clockwork of the building is just wild I love that shit
Destroying the Clocktower flooded the castle and put an end to all the evil. Poetic with a beautiful ending
The hidden treasure is a Roman city under the lake; fucking cool the aqueduct was a hint.
Rating: 9.5/10
#18 - Wild
Date Watched: 1/26/15
A very Malick-esque drama based on the memoirs of Cheryl Strayed, a young woman who looks to the wilderness to escape and find herself after years of destructive behavior, a bitter divorce and her mother's passing. Much of her story is told in flashbacks as she hikes the 2,663 mile Pacific Crest Trail. Reese Witherspoon anchors the film, giving her all, physically but especially emotionally. It's a raw, damaged but powerful performance. Director Jean-Marc VallƩe does a wonderful job capturing the wilderness, showing its beauty but also its wrath. The color palette is varied, as Cheryl treks through scorching deserts, lush forests and snowy mountains. I love when films do this because it keeps things from becoming visually stagnant. Django Unchained is another recent example of this (and one of the best, in my opinion). This was unexpected, considering the monotone look of his previous film, Dallas Buyers Club.
Rating: 7.5/10
#19 - Everly
Date Watched: 1/26/15
(dictated via iPhone)
Starts with a bang and keeps it going strong. Director Joe Lynch loves his strong female characters, much like James Cameron. Salma Hayek does a very good job. She's a believable badass and she nails the quiet emotional scenes too.
The pulsating score by Bear Mccreary is cool and reminiscent of movies like Hanna
Some of the dialogue and exposition feel a little forced like how they show she has a daughter in the beginning and the "oh it's just a flesh wound" throwaway line
Action is steady, with some good long takes and plenty of blood and guts to go around. Love the elevator kill with blood spraying out the tiny opening. Many of the gunshots appeared to be real squibs and not shitty CGI
With its confined setting it definitely has a Die Hard or Dredd feel; One person trapped in a building fighting all the inhabitants. And she's got all these bitchin weapons
I really like that it all seems to take place in this single hotel room and the hallway. It's genius because the film feels larger than it is thanks to great editing, pacing and shot variety. The use of the TV to show outside occurrences is an interesting narrative tool.
I like the irreverent tone. It goes between being serious and funny but it works
The sadist sensei guy and his psychopathic masochist dog was creepy but different and interesting, with his torture cage, his bag full of caustic chemicals and his demonic assistants. Aw his death scene was fucking awesome! He melted from the inside! It's been a while since I've seen a good melting.
Some of the shot choices are ridiculously cool. Through the holes in the walls or the Archway shot right after her mother gets killed. The pinup the building at the end was nifty as well, did the CGI was kinda bad
I dig the main baddie with the samurai sword. Why has Japanese culture all of a sudden become more interesting to me? Thanks Miyazaki!
She literally ended up with a noose around her neck. Not Very subtle...but I dig it. He dies by his own sword, bisected via Blade 2, painfully gnarly!
It being set during Christmas didn't really help or hurt it, but I guess it kind of goes with the redemption theme.
The SWAT guy carrying her daughter out was straight out of the professional
The fake out death at the end was okay but that shit doesn't fool anybody anymore
Overall, for a modern action movie, it feels like a throwback and it can hold its own with the heavy hitters.
Rating: 7/10
#20 - The Drop
Date Watched: 1/27/15
A low-key but gripping crime drama that stands out in a slew of them thanks to the excellent cast and efficient script. Tom Hardy is the man, James Gandolfini is great in his final role and the guy who plays Deeds is the perfect scumbag piece of shit who deserves to be forcibly castrated and butt-raped with a nail-covered baseball bat. Hey if you hurt a defenseless dog, you are worse than Manson in my book. Anyway, I dug the visuals and minimal score.
Rating: 7.5/10
#21 - A Most Violent Year [2014]
Date Watched: 1/28/15
Director J.C. Chandor continues to expand his already impressive resume with this gritty crime drama propelled by a calculating performance from Oscar Isaac. He plays Abel Morales, an immigrant-turned-businessman who wants to expand his fuel company but keeps running into problems. Jessica Chastain portrays his wife, a strong-willed woman who is the perfect match for him. Set in 1981, it actually harkens back to 70's crime sagas like The Godfather and Once Upon A Time In America, with Isaac channeling his inner Michael Corleone. It's slow and deliberate but never boring or tedious, a strength that few modern crime dramas possess; it's commendable. Chandor and cinematographer Bradford Young recreate 1980's New York beautifully, grime and all. I adored some of the static shot choices and the footchase on the Hudson (?) Bridge was awesome. The score and music is minimal, but is utilized effectively. Highly recommended.
Rating: 7.5/10
#22 - The Interview [2014]
Date Watched: 1/28/15
"They hate us cuz they ain't us!"
Such appropriate words for what this comedy had to endure. It got pulled from theaters right before its release after terrorist threats from North Korea targeting movie-goers. While doing a politically incorrect comedy that makes fun of a country the U.S. has severely strained (to put it lightly) relations with was a bad idea to begin with, after watching the finished product, it's clear that the filmmakers intended to make fun of both North Korean and American culture in equal measure. In fact, it lampoons the current state of America and our obsession with pop culture way more than it pokes fun at North Korea, with gut-busting results.
I wouldn't be too surprised if down the road we learn that this whole thing was orchestrated by the U.S. government in order to stop the film from adding fuel to the political fire or even Sony themselves to create free promotion for a movie that may have otherwise bombed (political comedies are notoriously hit-or-miss at the box office). I know that sounds like a "second gunman on the grassy knoll" kind of conspiracy theory, but I wouldn't put it past either organization at this point.
The film itself is typical of the Apatow crew's other projects, like 40 Year Old Virgin and This Is The End, with plenty of gay jokes to go around. This type of comedy isn't for everyone and is decidedly immature, but damn if I didn't find myself laughing my ass off. I love politically incorrect comedy, because everyone is so uptight about everything nowadays, getting offended by the dumbest shit. It's turning us into a world of wimps and victims. James Franco is excellent as aloof but good-hearted talk show host Dave Skylark, and Seth Rogen plays the straight man well. The celebrity cameos are hilarious, Eminem's in particular.
Loved the visuals and ample gore, and it's aptly directed. A much better comedy than I expected.
Rating: 7.5/10
#23 - The Gambler [2014]
Date Watched: 1/29/15
Despite being a remake of a James Caan classic, this one seemed to have BOMB written all over it, based on the shoddy marketing and unusual cast. Thankfully, it ended up being a genuine surprise. Mark Wahlberg is outstanding here, arguably some of his best work yet. The guy isn't exactly renowned for his acting chops, but I believe he is an underestimated actor. He's not the next Brando or anything, but he's better than most give him credit for. He channels Caan but also infuses his own badassery into the character. Also of note is John Goodman as a chrome-domed, maniacally menacing loan shark, voraciously chewing the scenery with reckless abandon. The rest of the cast is rock solid, particularly Jessica Lange as Wahlberg's domineering mother and Michael K. Williams as an intimidating rival loan shark. It all plays out as you might expect, but does so in its own gritty, modern way that you can't help but enjoy the ride.
Rating: 7/10
#24 - Porco Rosso [1992]
Date Watched: 1/29/15
It's not Miyazaki's best, but his worst film is still leaps and bounds above most director's best films. It's still another rousing adventure, but it's more in the straightforward vein of The Castle of Cagliostro than the mystical Spirited Away. Regardless, the animation is stunning as always. Much of the film takes place in the air, with creatively designed and intricately detailed planes engaging dogfights and aerial acrobatics that are beautiful sight. It has a sort of Indiana Jones feel, both thematically and technically, with the sound design and plane effects echoing The Last Crusade. Not much else to say, it's another exciting adventure from Master Miyazaki.
Rating: 8.5/10
#25 - A Million Ways To Die In The West [2014]
Trailer
Date Watched: 1/30/15 (attempted)
I gave this one 20 minutes and only uttered two half-hearted chuckles before turning it off. I don't ever turn movies off, but for a supposed comedy from Seth MacFarlane, this effort stunk to high heaven. MacFarlane is at fault here, for multiple reasons. First, he makes an unlikable lead, the kind of sarcastic, smarmy jabberjaw you want to punch in the face just so he'll shut up. Second, the writing is scattershot, with most of the jokes either missing their mark or feeling out of place in the Western setting, which I believe was intentional but it still falls flat. That's just bad comedy. Third, the rest of the cast is a mixed bag of actors who aren't renowned for the comedic skills. Liam Neeson seems bored and aware of how bad the movie is going to be, while I didn't see enough of Charlize Theron or NPH to judge, though I doubt they could save the movie. I've also never been a fan of Sarah Silverman with the exception of Wreck-It Ralph. She's always trying too hard and her bitchy hipster schtick gets old quick. The Western photography is passable.
Update 2/6/15 - I gave it another shot, picking up where I left off but could only muster another 15 minutes. All the dialogue and jokes are painfully awkward and forced. Not even the bar brawl, which would've been ripe for some physical comedy, was funny. It was obnoxiously long and pointlessly violent. MacFarlane has always had trouble knowing when to end a gag, and while that may work for Family Guy, it hinders this movie considerably. Charlize Theron looks bored and NPH at least tries but because the script sucks, he can't utilize his comedic skills properly. WHY IS SARAH SILVERMAN STILL TALKING? The running gag about her prostitution wasn't funny the first time but they keep going back to it, despite the fact that it clearly isn't working. How can MacFarlane be so blind to how bad this all is? He probably doesn't care because he's still wiping his ass with the profits from Ted (which was hysterical by the way). It's embarrassing and a little sad.
Update 2/6/15 - I gave it another shot, picking up where I left off but could only muster another 15 minutes. All the dialogue and jokes are painfully awkward and forced. Not even the bar brawl, which would've been ripe for some physical comedy, was funny. It was obnoxiously long and pointlessly violent. MacFarlane has always had trouble knowing when to end a gag, and while that may work for Family Guy, it hinders this movie considerably. Charlize Theron looks bored and NPH at least tries but because the script sucks, he can't utilize his comedic skills properly. WHY IS SARAH SILVERMAN STILL TALKING? The running gag about her prostitution wasn't funny the first time but they keep going back to it, despite the fact that it clearly isn't working. How can MacFarlane be so blind to how bad this all is? He probably doesn't care because he's still wiping his ass with the profits from Ted (which was hysterical by the way). It's embarrassing and a little sad.
I could continue but I feel I've made my point. Blazing Saddles this ain't. Don't waste your time, even if you're a Family Guy or Ted fan.
Rating: 3/10
#26 - Wild Card [2015]
Date Watched: 1/30/15
Remake of a 1986 Burt Reynolds film.
Visually stagnant, nothing eye-catching at all. Even the gambling scenes are boring. Aren't Las Vegas casinos all bright and colorful? I realize it was probably a tonal choice, but it makes everything so bland to look at.
The movie has no direction. Plot lines start and conclude at their leisure, with no rhyme or reason, characters come and go as they please. It makes caring about anything that's happening rather difficult. It begins by making you think it's a revenge tale, but the storyline goes out the window after a half an hour. The character completely disappears and isn't mentioned for the next hour. The pacing feels segmented and detached.
Jason Statham does a fantastic job as usual, the man is an underrated actor. He's been typecast as an action star only, but he has more depth than that. His only drawback is his monotone delivery. If he could minimize the tough guy rasp, he'd afford himself more of a range.
The musical selections are top notch. Well-chosen 60s and 70s rock songs that complement the vibe of the movie.
Director Simon West is subdued here. He's never been a particularly great director, but he knows how to stage an action scene and competently handles the material. The action scenes and hand-to-hand combat are well shot and helped by Statham's physical gifts. The knife and spoon fight outside the diner was the highlight. The only bad thing is the action scenes are few and far between.
Stanley Tucci shows up. I noticed him getting a lot more supporting roles recently and he always delivers. Sofia Vergara shows up for about 3 minutes of screentime yet she's receiving high billing for marketing purposes...classy Hollywood.
The original author adaptions own screenplay but does absolutely nothing interesting with it. There's not an ounce of originality to be found here.
Rating: 4/10
#27 - Akira [1988]
Date Watched: 1/31/15
A classic for a reason.
Animation style is more aggressive but less captivating then Miyazaki's films. This also seems to be much darker and more nihilistic.
The Neo Tokyo cityscapes are slightly futuristic and beautifully drawn utilizing a vibrant neon color scheme. It has a Blade Runner type feel
The motorcycle battle scenes and animation are incredible. So fluid yet still so intense and eye-popping.
This is way more violent, but probably tame in comparison to most animes
The blue skin kid has sonic or telepathic powers
The Japanese always do such a good job with the technical design of everything. The infrastructure and set design is practical engineeringly sound
Grasp that power…
So many of these Japanese directors how clearly been affected by the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. They use nuclear explosion imagery and create metaphors for the dangers of nuclear weapons
Good God, the scene where he trips out and his own innards explode out of his stomach, that was disturbing
The scenes in the bunker look like they belong in Aliens
Oh my God his toy nightmare was trippy and terrifying. The toys joining together to form a sort of toy golem. They're very creepy, and leaking milk which is weird. They look like they're being controlled by the Espers
His escape is very cool. Drawn out and very violent. He slowly discovering and expanding his powers.
The hover Skiff tunnel Chase was incredible. Kinetic animation and lots of good action. I loved that he launched himself onto one of them and commandeered it! Just like a terminator would.
While the telekinetic fighting is just so cool! The way it's animated and utilized is stunning. So unique.
I really dig this concept of Akira mentally invading Tetsuo's mind, awakening his powers, and using him as a weapon to break him out. It's making him evil. I wonder if he will turn good again and fight with Akira. That's my guess at least
Those light canons are pretty damn awesome.
The way he grabs and makes himself a cape is pretty badass
The Akira techno drome rising out of the smoky silo was just so fucking epic with them fighting on top of it!
AKira is actually all the now dead persons frozen organs and parts! I know he's gonna telekinetically put them back together something
Holy shit there's like a floating laser space station that's cool as shit and now Tetsuo's taking it over and using it to destroy parts of the city. Very reminiscent of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. And Tetsuo's arm got ripped off!
Whoa! He makes himself a cybernetic arm from the wreckage of the laser space station.
Holy shit this tentacle arm! It's like the thing trying to assimilate people! That's disgusting and holy shit it's a giant blob my God that's so fucking cool and gross! This movie is so wild.
Another nuclear destruction-type scene that lays waste and floods the city starting a new the birth of the universe.
Rating: 10/10
#28 - My Neighbor Totoro [1988]
Date Watched: 2/1/15
Opening animated sequence is reminiscent of an eight minute video game. The song is oddly catchy.
The house is kind of creepy but the forest around it is beautiful. It's a neat juxtaposition.
Those dustball spider things from spirited away (Black soots or susuwatari). The father called them soot gremlins; not usually seen unless going from complete dark to very bright. Old granny calls them soot sprites.
The bath scene was weird annnd it just got weirder. I guess the Japanese are okay with that but it's a little odd.
The score is very happy and upbeat, it kind of reminds me of a super Mario Brothers game.
That giant tree is so beautiful, and it kind a looks like a face
I like the childish adventure feel, it's really cool. It takes me back. When she's exploring the whole backyard it reminds me of when I used to play outside as a kid.
These little white and blue fat mouse things are cute. When she runs through the garden tunnel it's like she's passing into another world. Miyazaki always has those cool transitions that feel natural and subtle.
Everything is slowed down and more peaceful in Japanese culture. It's so interesting I really enjoy it. I should rent or get a book about Japanese culture.
Totoro's claws are like the bumble from Rudolph the red nose reindeer. I like his deep growl voice. Holy shit there's a cat bus with 12 legs very trippy and he stole their dad's umbrella! The scene of him jumping and causing all the rain to fall was cool
Wow the scene of them willing to tree to sprout was absolutely majestic. My jaw dropped. Such a gorgeous seen set to some beautiful music.
And then Totoro spends this giant top and uses it as a device to fly around and takes the girls on a short flight and that he roars which was awesome
Well this just took a dramatic turn with the mom getting sick again and Mei disappearing. Totoro to the rescue! And the cat bus is back! I wonder if that supposed to be a Lewis Carroll Alice in Wonderland Cheshire cat nod. It's got to be. Holy shit the cat bus can travel along electrical wires. That's nuts.
Overall, a great animated children's film.
Rating: 8.5/10
#29 - The Maze Runner [2014]
Date Watched: 2/2/15
Excellent production design. The layout and structure of the maze appears simple but becomes more complex as the film goes on. It keeps the visuals fresh.
Actors all do a great job. Most are unknowns and that makes the characters feel more real.
The Griever design is wild; a sort of bio-mechanical arachnid
The story is unusually compelling and never dull, something a lot of these YA adaptations fall victim to.
The pacing is superb, from the quiet emotional scenes in The Glade to the battles with the Grievers.
The action by itself is nothing particularly amazing, but in this modern age, it's shot and staged beautifully. No shaky-cam or incoherent cuts; you can easily tell what's going on.
I like that it explained some things, but many of the explanations only raised more questions...I'm intrigued.
Loved the ending and the set-up for the next installment. With the current overabundance of sequels nowadays, it's hard to get excited for them anymore but I will actively go see Scorch Trails.
Rating: 7/10
#30 - Tusk [2014]
Date Watched: 2/3/15
Kevin Smith's recent films have been...how to say this nicely...complete and utter garbage. After 2008's Zack and Miri Make A Porno, Smith vomited forth Cop Out, a terrible buddy cop turdfest, and Red State, an ill-conceived and absurd 'thriller'. Smith himself has become this sniveling little fanboy who ridicules anybody who dislikes his work, which is a real shame because the guy used to be this renegade auteur whose edgy but intelligent scripts spoke to the Gen-X crowd and helped define 90's culture.
Tusk doesn't exactly help Smith's case. It's a weird, disjointed mess of a movie that ultimately goes nowhere, but it is better than his two previous crapfests. The culprit here is the script, which Smith "adapted" from a podcast he did with friend and producer Scott Mosier, where they discussed an ad where a homeowner was offering a living situation free of charge, if the lodger agrees to dress as a walrus. It ended up being a prank ad, but that didn't stop Smith, who consulted his Twitter fans on whether or not he should make it. As you can probably guess, this asinine idea was doomed from the start as there isn't much a filmmaker could do with it, story-wise. Even Smith said "I just wanted to showcase Michael Parks in a fucked up story, where he could recite some Lewis Carroll and The Rime of the Ancient Mariner to some poor motherfucker sewn into a realistic walrus costume." Does that sound like a good idea to you? It sounds like Smith had no ambitions other than to make a disturbing movie featuring an actor he likes working with, based on a silly conversation he had with a friend. What a waste of time and money.
With the exception of Michael Parks, the characters are paper-thin, stereotypical and actually devolve as time goes on. Justin Long plays a vindictive, smarmy douchebag who gets what's coming to him, and I honestly can say I didn't feel bad for him. Haley Joel Osment is wasted, Genesis Rodriguez does nothing and the appearance of a really famous actor midway through feels like something out of Tim and Eric's Billion Dollar Movie, only not nearly as funny. If Smith was going for absurdity, he could learn a thing or two from Tim and Eric.
I can normally get down with stuff like this, such as Horns, but the problem with Tusk is that it can't decide what movie it wants to be. It's too ridiculous to be scary and too repulsive to be genuinely funny. Most of the laughs come from jokes about Canadian culture early on. The result is a tedious, scattershot affair that leaves you feeling cheated once the credits role. Smith needs to take the time to actually write a interesting story before he attempts to make another movie, instead of basing his plots on ideas from Twitter. If he ever makes Clerks III, he better get his shit together.
Rating: 2.5/10
#31 - Dracula Untold [2014]
Date Watched: 2/4/15
"Sometimes the world no longer needs a hero. Sometimes what it needs is a monster."
Luke Evans and Charles Dance are great as usual. Dominic Cooper is a little weak as Mehmed. I have trouble buying him as a ruthless conqueror because of his small stature and less-than-menacing presence. Great Howard Stark, but poor warlord.
Drac-vision is cool, reminds me of Daredevil's sonar. The production design and locations are stellar. Medieval castles, thick forests and treacherous mountains, everything looks fantastic, as good as Game of Thrones.
That first battle is badass. Well-shot and kinetic. All the action is pretty kickass. Not a ton of shaky-cam, edited well and exciting to watch. Him using the bats as a weapon was wild and the silver fight with Mehmed was unique.
Damn, the death of his wife was shocking. It's what pushed him over the edge and turned him into Dracula. He's gonna fuck shit up now. And he's making a vampire army haha that's so cool.
Should've been rated R! The vampire's impalement at the end was nasty! He melted and disintegrated.
I liked the ending. It was poetic but not sappy.
Rating: 6/10
#32 - The Boxtrolls [2014]
Date Watched: 2/5/15
Coraline and ParaNorman are two of the finest animated films in recent memory, showcasing animation studio Laika's vibrant colors, warped Psychonauts-style art design and fluid animation. While The Boxtrolls is a quirky, entertaining children's adventure, it's definitely Laika's weakest offering thus far. It lacks the dark themes and interesting characters that made Coraline and ParaNorman so refreshing. The characters are underdeveloped, which hurts the story and results in the "be yourself" message feeling diluted. The visuals leave something to be desired. They utilize a muted, murky color palette that made the town seem lifeless and bland. I still enjoyed the boxtroll's underground lair and all the steampunk-meets-Frankenstein contraptions used by the villain, voiced sinisterly by the great Ben Kingsley. The rest of the voice cast does a decent job, but nothing noteworthy. Worth a watch if you like stop-motion animation, but not a must-see.
Rating: 6/10
#33 - Ponyo [2008]
Date Watched: 2/5/15
The most gorgeous and vibrant animation yet. The underwater setting provides Miyazaki with so many opportunities show off his skills. The amount of detail and precision he puts into every frame just breathes like in the story like few other animators. I dig the anti-pollution themes which are not preachy.
Rating: 10/10
#34 - Perfect Blue [1997]
Date Watched: 2/6/15
A mindfuck. It blurs the line between reality and fantasy in a sinister but compelling way. The use of mirrors to represent this duality theme is genius. The animation is stark too.
This movie fucks with your perception of reality. You don't know what's real or what's being filmed or what's all in the lead characters mind. It's quite the mindfuck.
A lot of reflections in mirrors and glass represent the duality of these characters, it's cool
The stocker guy is very creepy his eye being higher than it should be it's unsettling
Didn't expect the nudity, but it works with the story.
I'm having trouble keeping track of what's real and what's fake. It's blurring the lines. Why she raped and this is all just a fantasy to help her cope? Or is some of the singer/actress backstory true. Because it's playing out like her life or her life is imitating art it's really cool.
This movie fucks with your perception of reality. You don't know what's real or what's being filmed or what's all in the lead characters mind. It's quite the mindfuck.
A lot of reflections in mirrors and glass represent the duality of these characters, it's cool
The stocker guy is very creepy his eye being higher than it should be it's unsettling
Didn't expect the nudity, but it works with the story.
I'm having trouble keeping track of what's real and what's fake. It's blurring the lines. Why she raped and this is all just a fantasy to help her cope? Or is some of the singer/actress backstory true. Because it's playing out like her life or her life is imitating art it's really cool.
Rating: 9/10
#35 - Paprika [2006]
Date Watched: 2/8/15
The visual style is so fast-paced but fluid, each image flows into the next
I love the dream invasion idea. I can see why inception copied it if that happened. It affords so many interesting scenarios where the laws of reality don't apply and you can build or create or contort anything you want
The doll scene was creepy. That whole dream was pretty fucking weird but so creative.
I like the animation. The main characters are all very distinctly drawn.
The amusement park setting is fucking awesome! Reminds me of silent Hill three and killer clowns from outer space
The backgrounds of thick green trees shrubs and bushes are gorgeous and make things feel very organic
The idea of dreams merging and realities converging is wild and creative.
The chairman and his tree lamb legs reminded me of the plane. And her merging with the painting and turning into a Griffin holy shit. And then a mermaid
The way he split her body open to reveal her true self and then the Doublehead and tentacles stress like the thing again
I absolutely love the concept of dreams combining and merging. It's so wild because it combines all kinds of weird things but don't have to make sense together. It's infinite creation. This one has the giant Godzilla size doll and people turn to get the guitars and fish it's amazing
Holy shit allowing them to travel through TVs and camera lenses and murals and paintings is wild.
The ideas and concepts in this movie are wild. The dimension altering chairman coming out of the sludge black hole and Paprika devouring his evil.
Rating: 9.5/10
#36 - Hard Eight [1996]
Date Watched: 2/9/15
P.T. Anderson's directorial debut is nothing like his subsequent works. The subject matter is nothing unique, the cast isn't an ensemble, and there's no fat on the story. It's a sleek and efficient neo-noir crime thriller with no grand ambitions, but that's OK. On it's own, it's a damn fine crime drama full of great performances. Many of Anderson's trademarks are present, albeit simplified, and you can sense the skills and talent he would unleash in his later films.
Rating: 8/10
#37 - Kiki's Delivery Service [1989]
Date Watched: 2/9/15
A fun childish feel, it will probably be similar to My Neighbor Totoro
The flower and garden at her house is fucking awe-inspiring. So many bright colors.
Aw man she can't go on the camping trip? That really sucks. If I was the dad I would be pretty pissed
And there's a talking cat...just rolling with it
Her take off was really neat.
Oh Bitchy witch alert. Reminds me of who Hermione would be
It's funny because the dorky kid on the bike who saves her from getting a ticket kind a looks like Harry Potter with the glasses and possible forehead scar. He also looks like a combination of Waldo and Tintin
She just falls right into the delivery job, I love it. I like how witches are part of the universe, just accepted no big wow reveal. This lady Osono is so nice and kind to her.
Her first delivery is so cool. It would be so neat to fly on a broom like that. The animation is so fast but still sharp. That bird was fucking scary "crows used to serve witches! But that was a long time ago!" I like how this suggests a long history of witches, so the Salem witch trials and such could be real
This Seaside/island town is so picturesque and quaint. It's like a modern paradise
The music is very energetic. A few tracks reminded me of old Nintendo eight bit themes
Tombo's bicycle copter flight was beautifully animated and they ended up at a giant dirigible like Led Zeppelin! Damn Miyazaki's beach scenery is so enticing. That's my dream, I want to live on the water esp an ocean at least for a little bit.
I will say this one isn't as efficient as many of his other works. It's an hour and 45 minutes and think it would've benefited from being a tad shorter.
The girl bonding in the cabin was surprisingly profound. Really hit the nail on the head with the "finding power from within yourself that you always knew you had." Sometimes you just lose it and you need to take a break from it so you can find it again.
Wow the dirigible airship got torn from its moorings and now it's floating through the air with Tombo and a car attached! Talk about a good set piece for the finale.
Rating: 8.5/10
#38 - Horrible Bosses 2 [2014]
Date Watched: 2/10/15
Horrible Bosses didn't need a sequel yet we got one anyway. The result is inferior but still entertaining. The cast is still solid, particularly the supporting players. Chris Pine, Jennifer Aniston and Jamie Foxx all steal the scenes they're in. I'm surprised at how funny Pine can be. Between this movie and Stretch he should definitely pursue more comedies. The jokes are mostly funny, but some do fall flat. I also found it to be too long, even at an 1 hr 45. There are a few points where things dragged that could've been cut out entirely, and there's also excessive product placement that becomes annoying and distracting. My biggest issue is that Christoph Waltz, currently one of the most enthusiastic and versatile actors around, is wasted. He just isn't given much funny material, which is a big mistake. Check it out if you liked the original, otherwise your mileage may vary.
Rating: 6.5/10
#39 - Big Hero 6 [2014]
Date Watched: 2/10/15
Beautiful animation with flashes of anime influence. The mixture of culture in 'San Fransokyo' is clever and reminds me of Blade Runner's industrial Chinatown look, albeit much less grimy and depressing. The storyline focuses on technology, which is unusual for Disney. Their films are traditionally fantasy-based so to have them create a story about the wonders and dangers of technology is a refreshing change. The nanobots/microbots are pure creation - if you can think it, you can build it. The way the individual pieces attract each other to form a larger mass is reminiscent of the T-1000 and the Iron Giant. The villain is imposing. I love the bright kabuki mask and that he's using the nanobots as a mechanical suit to fight and move around. The car chase between him and the good guys is awesome. Fast, intense and fun. Everything points to the evil industrialist being underneath the mask, but part of me thinks there's going to be a twist and his brother or the robotics professor is actually behind it.
Baymax is funny and well-designed. In a pantheon of comic relief sidekicks, he's another sterling addition. When his battery gets low, it's like he's drunk. In a Disney movie that's hilarious. He's helpful and a good role model too ("seatbelts save lives!"). The rest of the characters rise above their archetypes and their power suits are badass and unique to each character's scientific skills (chemistry, speed, lasers, etc). Go-Go is channeling her inner Tron!
Rating: 9/10
#40 - How To Train Your Dragon 2 [2014]
Date Watched: 2/12/15
Creative and gorgeously animated, HTTYD2 expands and builds upon the first film's universe, giving us another thrilling adventure. It's buoyed by likable characters and a suitably epic script. The animation is so slick and colorfully kinetic, especially with the POV flight shots and when the Alpha Dragon breathes ice spikes.
Rating: 8.5/10
#41 - Howl's Moving Castle [2004]
Date Watched: 2/12/15
Mobile walking castle. Unique. Impractical but unique.
is this blonde guy howl? The blob creatures following him are cool. Kind of like Gooey black tar ghost blobs. And then they float? Walk? Across the street to safety using his wizard/sorcerer powers. I like that there's so many different witches and wizards. The old which queen with her staff was pretty imposing.
So she got transformed into an old lady by a witch who's an enemy of howl I think. When she gets to the mountain range with all the fog, it's so beautiful! It reminds me of the mountains in Switzerland.
The scarecrow on a stick is cool. I wonder if that's a Wizard of Oz reference because slick she helps them out and then he in return helps her by giving her the cane. Either way it's cool. He does another is single word but is so helpful. Pretty neat.
Up Close the castle is a steam punk behemoth that at first glance reminded me of the mechanical spider from wild wild West. Everyone hates that damn movie but I enjoy it quite a bit. Especially Kenneth Branagh. Anyway the lower portion of the castle is shaped like a biomechanical animal with a mouth and tongue. It's not explicit but it's clear. When the castle is on the move and she looks out it's so pretty. And there's a balcony! Oh my god that's a breathtaking view of the ocean.
A fire Demon? Voiced by Billy Crystal? šš he basically controls the steam generating power of the castle. It's fucking nifty
The doors a portal to different places it's wild. the dial simply communicates it which is nice
Oh man that bacon and eggs looks amazing right now.
I like Christian Bale voicing Howl. His desire reminds me of David Bowie, and from Final Fantasy 7 characters like cloud
What the fuck was that fire and war scene with Howell? Demon bats and airships firing at each other. And howl had a feather suit or could transform kind of like Angel from X-Men.
When his hair gets turned red he freaks out and turns the castle into a nightmare world dubbed an 'expanse of darkness'. Creepy as fuck with unsettling moans and ghastly shapes. And he melts or get some slimy residue on himself
Howl's room is a vibrant menagerie of color and motion
The fat which with her giant neckroll's is The witch of the waste is not = the wicked witch of the west? Another Wizard of Oz reference. And the old lady now has a dog so it's like Dorothy and Toto.
When she meets the queen such a beautiful green house with lush plants and trees and making them walk up the steps. Whoa the way she attacks them with magic is gnarly
It's like a maze of tunnels that are lined with glittery toys and other trinkets. It appears to be a dream like she's entering the recesses of his mind through those tunnels. It's a pretty cool visual metaphor lined with all the things he loves thats so fucking rad.
In fucking credible! How transported them and the entire fucking castle which has to weigh 200 tons via some type of wizard portal. So cool. It leads to this secret Garden which is absolutely stunning; an oasis of pure beauty.
is this blonde guy howl? The blob creatures following him are cool. Kind of like Gooey black tar ghost blobs. And then they float? Walk? Across the street to safety using his wizard/sorcerer powers. I like that there's so many different witches and wizards. The old which queen with her staff was pretty imposing.
So she got transformed into an old lady by a witch who's an enemy of howl I think. When she gets to the mountain range with all the fog, it's so beautiful! It reminds me of the mountains in Switzerland.
The scarecrow on a stick is cool. I wonder if that's a Wizard of Oz reference because slick she helps them out and then he in return helps her by giving her the cane. Either way it's cool. He does another is single word but is so helpful. Pretty neat.
Up Close the castle is a steam punk behemoth that at first glance reminded me of the mechanical spider from wild wild West. Everyone hates that damn movie but I enjoy it quite a bit. Especially Kenneth Branagh. Anyway the lower portion of the castle is shaped like a biomechanical animal with a mouth and tongue. It's not explicit but it's clear. When the castle is on the move and she looks out it's so pretty. And there's a balcony! Oh my god that's a breathtaking view of the ocean.
A fire Demon? Voiced by Billy Crystal? šš he basically controls the steam generating power of the castle. It's fucking nifty
The doors a portal to different places it's wild. the dial simply communicates it which is nice
Oh man that bacon and eggs looks amazing right now.
I like Christian Bale voicing Howl. His desire reminds me of David Bowie, and from Final Fantasy 7 characters like cloud
What the fuck was that fire and war scene with Howell? Demon bats and airships firing at each other. And howl had a feather suit or could transform kind of like Angel from X-Men.
When his hair gets turned red he freaks out and turns the castle into a nightmare world dubbed an 'expanse of darkness'. Creepy as fuck with unsettling moans and ghastly shapes. And he melts or get some slimy residue on himself
Howl's room is a vibrant menagerie of color and motion
The fat which with her giant neckroll's is The witch of the waste is not = the wicked witch of the west? Another Wizard of Oz reference. And the old lady now has a dog so it's like Dorothy and Toto.
When she meets the queen such a beautiful green house with lush plants and trees and making them walk up the steps. Whoa the way she attacks them with magic is gnarly
It's like a maze of tunnels that are lined with glittery toys and other trinkets. It appears to be a dream like she's entering the recesses of his mind through those tunnels. It's a pretty cool visual metaphor lined with all the things he loves thats so fucking rad.
In fucking credible! How transported them and the entire fucking castle which has to weigh 200 tons via some type of wizard portal. So cool. It leads to this secret Garden which is absolutely stunning; an oasis of pure beauty.
The battleships are wild they have fluid wings and sort of resemble flying pigs. Howell turns evil sprouts spikes or feathers. Battleship henchmen remind me of Langoliers with their giant maw mouths and how they swarm.
A strong antiwar message. When the bombs are following it reminded me of the bombings of London with the B2 rockets and other bombs
This is a strange Batman connection but Christan bale voices howl who kind a looks like bird man who was played by Michael keaton who played Batman and Bale also play Batman so that's just fucking crazy connections
Sweet Lord Calcifer The fire demon is taken from the castle which probably collapses, but he's able to become superpowered and create a mini castle the kind a looks like Pac-Man of legs. However the witch of waste fucks it up andThe mini castle splits into and keeps walking it's wild
She somehow got transported back to Howells childhood and saw how he got his powers.
So howl found his true love in Sophie which broke her curse. she kissed turnip head scarecrow which broke his curse and he was the prince from the neighboring kingdom that had caused the whole war to begin in the first place.
And the moving castle becomes a flying castle. That will be the coolest fucking thing in the world it even has a little backyard wow.
A strong antiwar message. When the bombs are following it reminded me of the bombings of London with the B2 rockets and other bombs
This is a strange Batman connection but Christan bale voices howl who kind a looks like bird man who was played by Michael keaton who played Batman and Bale also play Batman so that's just fucking crazy connections
Sweet Lord Calcifer The fire demon is taken from the castle which probably collapses, but he's able to become superpowered and create a mini castle the kind a looks like Pac-Man of legs. However the witch of waste fucks it up andThe mini castle splits into and keeps walking it's wild
She somehow got transported back to Howells childhood and saw how he got his powers.
So howl found his true love in Sophie which broke her curse. she kissed turnip head scarecrow which broke his curse and he was the prince from the neighboring kingdom that had caused the whole war to begin in the first place.
And the moving castle becomes a flying castle. That will be the coolest fucking thing in the world it even has a little backyard wow.
Rating: 9.5/10
#42 - Inside Llewyn Davis [2013]
Date Watched: 2/13/15
Well-acted but actively depressing, ILD evokes the Coen Brother's raw earlier films, such as Blood Simple. I'm a big Coen Brothers fan so I'm not sure why I didn't seek out Inside Llewyn Davis sooner. Probably because it looked like an indie hipster film. It is NOT. It's an engrossing watch thanks to Oscar Issac's notable charisma and the well chosen folk soundtrack. It follows the eponymous character, a perpetually unlucky, couch-surfing musician in 1961 New York. He's a tortured character, but a lot of that pain is self-inflicted. In typical Coen fashion, Llewyn is relatable but not necessarily likable; a folk antihero if you will. Oscar Issac just kills it and continues to prove himself to be quite the versatile actor. The supporting cast is an eclectic mix of actors raging from Justin Timberlake to John Goodman.
Rating: 7/10
#43 - The Wind Rises [2013]
Date Watched: 2/14/15
"Inspiration is more important than scale. Inspiration unlocks the future. Technology eventually catches up."
Like a Super Mario game already airships in particular
It's a very antiwar film already. The distraction of Tokyo is straight from the A-bomb.
I love the plane designs there's all different kinds like fighter planes and the main guys playing what you can walk around it has stairs and different levels and then there's the giant super plane
The story focuses on engineering! That's awesome
Well that earthquake was crazy
The fact that there on Germany side and World War II crazy.
"The military has a weakness for big things"
LOVE THIS!
These dreams he's having are so awesome. They're pure creation. The sleek airplane design that's like a glider
The scenery of the hotel in the forest and everything is just so stunning and well realized. The Soundesign is great to what the creature and critter forest effects
When the rain stops and she goes from went to try and call is it another land is so neat I've been there before that one time on the road my parents
It's interesting to see characters smoking considering how family friendly and anti-pollution Miyazaki is
The paper airplanes path involves all the main characters
The story between Jiro and his wife was touching.
His planes were used for war which sucks but he still achieved his dream.
Rating: 9/10
#44 - Pitch Perfect [2012]
Date Watched: 2/14/15
An catchy modern day musical filled with memorable characters and a stellar soundtrack. I hate Rebel Wilson, but she was excellent here as the Barden Bellas' secret weapon. The diverse cast plays off each other well with Anna Kendrick and Brittany Snow being particularly good. The choreography and editing are top-notch, giving the film a polished feel of a . This one gets bonus points because of the brief "movie discussion" scenes between Kendrick male lead Skylar Astin, and the movie inspired finale.
Rating: 8/10
#45 - Kingsman: The Secret Service [2015]
Date Watched: 2/15/15
Exciting and full of energy, Kingsman is both a loving homage to 70's & 80's era James Bond and a lively modern spy thriller. The ensemble cast is superb, with Colin Firth channeling his best Roger Moore and Samuel L. Jackson hamming it up as a lisping virtual entrepreneur. Newcomer Taron Egerton can be a tad stiff early on but quickly finds his stride as the young lead. Michael Caine is himself and I enjoyed seeing Mark Hamill show up.
The stunts and fight scenes are outstanding. Matthew Vaughn continues to showcase his ability to stage thrilling action setpieces and he may have topped himself with the "church scene" in this one. Gloriously set to Skynyrd's "Free Bird", it's a sadistic brawl that is a brutal yet beautiful tableau of violence. I look forward to seeing how they shot and choreographed it...must've been tough. The whole film has a sleek, suave look and feel to it, much like the modern day Bond films. The soundtrack is also superb.
The story echoes Bond as well. From the fancy suits and nifty gadgets to Jackson's megalomaniacal super-villain complete with badass sidekick and underground lair, the entire affair plays out with a smirk on its face, but it has an absolute blast doing it and that fun transcends onto the audience. Highly recommended!
Rating: 8.5/10
#46 - Don't Look Now [1973]
Date Watched: 2/16/15
A gorgeously dreadful film. I like the Gothic experimental feel, It's very dreamlike. Oh my God their daughter drowned. That's terrifying. Such a melancholy feel but it works and gets under your skin.
Some of director Nicholas Roeg's shot choices and camera work is very surreal and unique.
These old ladies are strange, especially the blind one. They keep popping up foreshadowing danger. They could represent death omens or could be witches.
"Get the feeling he doesn't give an ecclesiastical fuck about the church?" that line cracked me up
The sex scene was pretty graphic but it was very erotic
The Gothic architecture in Venice presents a labyrinth like maze
The statues of the church is restoring a really creepy some type of deformed Cupid or hell imp. I think it's going to fall and hurt or kill someone. And the statue at the park where she's talking to the blind ladies are all very creepy and keeping a watchful eye.
The blind lady is rubbing her boobs with her second sight. Is she sensing her having sex with him?
The color red is so dominant. It matches the little girls jacket and maybe foreshadowing other things like bloody murder! The color yellow is also prominent, representing caution and danger.
Even the damn hotel where they are staying at is ominous. They appear to be the only ones there. Like a ghost town
I have to say I'm enjoying this personally because I've been to Venice and to see all the architecture in places that I possibly walked over or went to it's pretty fucking cool
Wow him almost getting hit by the 2 x 4 on the platform was like something out of the omen. Damn that was intense!
So he had a flashback of himself actually falling, So did he fall and the rest of this is all a dream in his mind or is it just his mind playing tricks on him?
Oh god the baby doll on the steps leading into the water was very fucking creepy.
The line between reality and fantasy is starting to blur. At the end when he's chasing Christine in the red hood it literally turns into like a nightmare with Erie fog, physics not making sense.
Gah that dwarf in the red raincoat...terrifying!
So when he saw his wife on the black boat he was actually seeing his own funeral procession? That's cool. It makes me wonder if all this could be a metaphor or allegory for him committing suicide over the grief of losing his daughter?
Some of director Nicholas Roeg's shot choices and camera work is very surreal and unique.
These old ladies are strange, especially the blind one. They keep popping up foreshadowing danger. They could represent death omens or could be witches.
"Get the feeling he doesn't give an ecclesiastical fuck about the church?" that line cracked me up
The sex scene was pretty graphic but it was very erotic
The Gothic architecture in Venice presents a labyrinth like maze
The statues of the church is restoring a really creepy some type of deformed Cupid or hell imp. I think it's going to fall and hurt or kill someone. And the statue at the park where she's talking to the blind ladies are all very creepy and keeping a watchful eye.
The blind lady is rubbing her boobs with her second sight. Is she sensing her having sex with him?
The color red is so dominant. It matches the little girls jacket and maybe foreshadowing other things like bloody murder! The color yellow is also prominent, representing caution and danger.
Even the damn hotel where they are staying at is ominous. They appear to be the only ones there. Like a ghost town
I have to say I'm enjoying this personally because I've been to Venice and to see all the architecture in places that I possibly walked over or went to it's pretty fucking cool
Wow him almost getting hit by the 2 x 4 on the platform was like something out of the omen. Damn that was intense!
So he had a flashback of himself actually falling, So did he fall and the rest of this is all a dream in his mind or is it just his mind playing tricks on him?
Oh god the baby doll on the steps leading into the water was very fucking creepy.
The line between reality and fantasy is starting to blur. At the end when he's chasing Christine in the red hood it literally turns into like a nightmare with Erie fog, physics not making sense.
Gah that dwarf in the red raincoat...terrifying!
So when he saw his wife on the black boat he was actually seeing his own funeral procession? That's cool. It makes me wonder if all this could be a metaphor or allegory for him committing suicide over the grief of losing his daughter?
Rating: 10/10
#47 - The New York Ripper [1982]
Date Watched: 2/17/15
Good opening, good theme song
This lady on the bike fucked up that dudes car and then calls him an asshole. She's gonna bite it.
The ferry dock was shot well and gave it a unique look. Really cool.
Damn the bike lady just got eviscerated. That was brutal. The dude was quacking like a duck...da fuck? She's got nice big boobies though.
That guys ring and pinky finger were missing! Is he the killer?The POV shots seem to indicate it
Wow there's titties, ass and bush (TABs - coining that now) everywhere! All shapes and sizes too. Gratzi Mr. Fulci.
Whoa the sex performer got impaled in the vag with a broken wine bottle.. Jesus that was graphic and the shot changing from green to red was so evocative. Reminded me of Suspiria. Then he calls the NYPD detective and cons him also quacking like a duck. What is it with Fulci and ducks?
The bar scene made me uncomfortable. Who does that?!
The blonde gets sliced and then ambushed in a movie theater. They carve her up with a straight razor and then BOOM it was all a dream! She was attacked but didn't get stabbed in the movie theater thing was all a nightmare?
Damn the scene where she has to untie herself while the ripper is lying next to her asleep was nail biting. And then he guts her...yeesh. I wonder if the two finger guy is really the ripper? We haven't seen his face but it's been implied. I bet you it's Paul the douchey teacher.
Some of the silhouette shots and POV camera work are straight up Giallo. Fulci has a good eye for composition.
Oh god when the ripper is torturing Kitty he slices her nipple and eye EWWWWWWW. Damn talk about a dedicated killing for the guy she used to sleep with. That's fucked up.
It seems that Fay is the killer. She is super smart but apparently has visions and hallucinations that cause her to kill. No it's Peter!!! His poor daughter's health and imminent death led him to hate all sexually active women and kill them. That's fucked up.
Rating: 7/10
#48 - Angry Video Game Nerd: The Movie [2014]
Date Watched: 2/18/15
I've been a big AVGN fan since 2007. James Rolfe is an inspiring low budget filmmaker who reminds me of Sam Raimi. To have him finally produce a full-length feature starring his most famous persona, it was pretty sweet. The movie itself is a low budget comedy adventure with shades of kaiju disaster movies thrown in for good measure. Think Troma but less crude and offensive. It's a loving tribute to video games and their devoted fanbases. The cameos are cool and the music is nifty. It's all done with tongue firmly in cheek, but I didn't find it as funny as I was hoping. Maybe the Nerd works better in small doses.
Rating: 6.5/10
#49 - The Book of Life [2014]
Date Watched: 2/19/15
I absolutely love the design of the characters and realms. It reminds me so much of Psychonauts. It's funny and doesn't shy away from the main theme of death and loss. It celebrates it and proves that as long as you're remembered, you're never really gone. It also celebrates Mexican culture which is quite refreshing compared to the hectic US culture. The characters are memorable and voiced by a recognizable Mexican cast such as Diego Luna and Hector Elizondo. The villain is menacingly fun too. Voiced by the great Ron Perlman and stunningly designed, he makes the story that much more engaging. They way they jump between realms is unique and imaginative. Heaven, or the Land of the Remembered, is like one big fiesta surrounded by your loved ones and Hell, or the Land of the Forgotten, is a somber eerie wasteland.
Rating: 8.5/10
#50 - Automata [2014]
Date Watched: 2/19/15
Automata is full of interesting concepts but it's long runtime and uneven pacing leave it feeling occasionally listless and confusing. In a future where the Earth has been irradiated, we follow Antonio Banderas' character, an insurance adjustor for a company that produce service robots. Heavily homaging Blade Runner, it has some very creative ideas that are explored fairly well. The technology is cool, the world-building is well-done and the effects are solid for a direct to video release. They're a nice mixture of practical animatronics and some well-done CGI. Banderas tries admirably, and Dylan McDermott plays his cocky asshole role very well. The arid desert landscape gives it a Dredd Wasteland type feel. It throws around some interesting philosophical ideas as well, and doesn't get to preachy or stuck up its own butt. Other than the pacing issues, I'd recommend this one if you dig cerebral sci-fi.
Rating: 7/10
#51 - WolfCop
Date Watched: 2/19/15
A campy exploitation movie in the vein of Troma. I have to be honest, I wish the movie would've taken itself a bit more seriously, but I think the weak and inexperienced cast forced them to play up the camp. Most of the cast is wooden or hams it up big time, with the lead being maddeningly inconsistent. The story is basic, a cop becomes a werewolf and kills criminals, but still throws in a satanic twist for good measure. The werewolf transformations and gore are the best part, though they aren't as over-the-top as Troma's stuff. The gore was not as rampant as I thought it would be, probably due to budgetary limitations or poor direction. I was hoping for Hobo with a Shotgun-level carnage which would've made it more memorable, but I was still pleased with the bloodshed. We do get a wolf dick though, so...yeah enjoy that. My other issue was with the choppy editing and jumbled camerawork that at times made it feel like a spastic 90's music video. The gross out comedy was funny, though the trailer ruined a few of the better jokes/one liners. I must also mention the absolutely stellar poster designed by the great Tom Hodge.
With all that said, none of these issues are a dealbreaker. From the title alone, you should know what you're in for with a low budget movie like this. Just sit back, have a few beers and laugh at the absurdity of it all.
Rating: 6.5/10
#52 - The Crow [1994]
Date Watched: 2/20/15
I loved this movie growing up. It's Gothic visuals and style exposed me to Alex Proyas, who I believe is one of the best pure visual artists out there. I decided to rewatch it after buying the Bluray. It's still a stylish and moody revenge tale packed with striking visuals. Brandon Lee is excellent as Eric Draven and he plays the role with theatricality and madness. Ernie Hudson is good as an honest cop and Michael Wincott makes for a sinister villain The supporting cast of scumbags are sufficiently despicable and memorably dispatched. The film has a living nightmare feel, and the soundtrack is grunge-emo perfection. Even with a rewatch at a more mature age, I still think this is arguably Proyas' best work.
Rating: 8.5/10
#53 - Wyrmwood: Road of the Dead [2015]
Date Watched: 2/21/15
For the first time in a long time, a movie lives up to its hyped tagline. It really does feel like a mixture of Mad Max and Dawn of the Dead, with dashes of Evil Dead and Braindead. A meteor shower occurs and causes a zombie outbreak, and a mechanic named Barry must fight his way through the hordes. This is the perfect example of a high concept hybrid of horror and action. It's gory and gleefully vicious with tons of headshots and zombie bites, plus a few nasty surprises I don't want to spoil. The skillfully shot action is fast-paced and exciting to watch, on top of being pulled off with practical stuntwork.
The dramatic angle is effective as well because the actors they chose do a phenomenal job with the material. It elevates it above your standard horror movie. The camerawork is very Raimi-esque, and coupled with the vibrant cinematography and killer sound design, everything looks and sound superb. The best part about this wonderful independent gem is that it's filled with tons of creative and inventive ideas that are maximized to their potential. I don't want to give them away because they just enhance the overall film so much. It breathes new life into the genre.
The dramatic angle is effective as well because the actors they chose do a phenomenal job with the material. It elevates it above your standard horror movie. The camerawork is very Raimi-esque, and coupled with the vibrant cinematography and killer sound design, everything looks and sound superb. The best part about this wonderful independent gem is that it's filled with tons of creative and inventive ideas that are maximized to their potential. I don't want to give them away because they just enhance the overall film so much. It breathes new life into the genre.
Rating: 9.5/10
#54 - The Houses October Built [2014]
Date Watched: 2/21/15
A creepy found footage movie that follows five people in search of the most extreme haunted house they can find. Taking place in the days before Halloween, five friends pile into an RV and head south to visit a number of backwoods haunted attractions, each one more unsettling than the last. Eventually they encounter a group of terrorizers who will do anything to scare them. Look, this movie is essentially filmed haunted houses so if that doesn't sound like your cup o' tea, move along. If it intrigues you, I'd recommend this one. The horror vibe is right on - the scenery and sets are delightfully spooky and some of the costumes and make-up are extremely creepy (namely a clown named Giggles and an axe murderer in a bloody bunny suit).
The cool thing is that the line between fantasy and reality starts to blur and you begin to wonder just how much of the terror at these places is staged. Are the costumes stained with real blood? Is the person about to get vivisected just acting or are they an unwilling victim? Interviews with various people working behind the scenes are interspersed throughout the film and they can get under your skin because some of them are clearly a few beers short of a six pack. The main cast does a decent job in that they seem like regular normal people, which adds to the realism. There are at least two scares that I know will send most people jumping out of their seats. This is nothing groundbreaking but it has a disturbing Manhunt-type horror vibe and I could easily see myself watching this around Halloween each year to get in the mood.
Rating: 7/10
#55 - GirlHouse [2014]
Date Watched: 2/22/15
A gnarly little slasher. It has a number of nifty ideas and it homages Halloween and 70's Italian giallos as well as more recent classics like The Silence of the Lambs with loving dedication. Using digital webcams as another camera POV when telling your story works ingeniously well when it comes to a slasher like this. Set in one building, it affords many cool transitions. Using hi-tech smart phones linked to the building to control its windows, doors and electronics also evoke a House on Haunted Hill feel. This slasher aspect also reminded me of Tobe Hooper's remake of The Toolbox Murders. The killer has a toolbox and uses something different from it each time. He strangled a chick with her heroin arm band, sliced up a blonde with a box cutter and then chops of her fingers with an axe after pouring lye down her throat (she's the sluttiest too). He also tapes a deepthroated dildo to a girl's face and suffocates her which I have NEVER seen before. There's also a head getting hacked off with hacksaw, a girl's skull getting bashed apart by a sledgehammer, and a claw hammer beating. It's brutal.
The little girl in the beginning is Catwoman (Catgirl?) on Gotham. Damn she took a header, broke her leg then tubby kicks her off the bridge and SPLAT.
The Loverboy kid looks like this punk I went to elementary school with. Ricky Nelson I think.
The setup is cool. Ali Cobrin is so smokin hot but she won't get nude. She did in American Reunion so why not here? Doesn't matter there's still hella titttttties. Asian, big naturals, all kinds.
The red haired college roommate: "Why don't you throw some fertilizer down your pants, grow those apple seeds into Granny Smiths and show her somethin'!" HAHA what an odd way to say BALLS and it was delivered by this nitwit who could be Butnik's cousin.
The guy that runs GirlHouse is gay, that's ironic.
What the fuck they're playing strip croquet? Why not?
Ben got her digits! Smooth ladykiller
No wonder Loverboy hates women
Wow he's puts on that creepy tourist trap like mask and takes over the computer control center.
I hate computer hacking in movies. It always looks so fake and the text is obnoxiously large
It definitely has a Halloween feel to it especially with him offing all the ladies of the house.
Devon killed herself? Talk about pride.
Silence of the Lambs night vision reference, REC too. Damn she crushed his face with the camera
Rating: 7/10
#56 - Digging Up The Marrow [2014]
Date Watched: 2/23/15
Clever concept. Very meta, references real indie horror while also being a part of it. Low budget and easy to make. I admire the ingenuity.
Green & Co are likable and able to sell the early scenes and once Ray Wise shows up, that's all you need. His presence is magnetic and he gives a good performance to boot. You get caught up in the mystery and the search.
It drags a little in places but nothing too serious. It only runs 88 minutes too. With a larger budget they could've accomplished a lot more.
The actual monsters are only seen for about 30 seconds but that's all they need to be effective. They're nightmarishly creepy and very Silent Hill-esque. The smiley headed blobface was the scariest.
The ending is polarizing. I liked it because it added a supernatural teleportation element to the monsters. He vanishes like Nightcrawler.
Rating: 6.5/10
#57 - Cat People [1982]
Date Watched: 2/23/15
Gorgeous visuals. That opener in the desert with scattered skulls was striking and eerie. The Gothic vibe is enhanced by beautiful cinematography.
Cast is very good. Nat is a little wooden to start but becomes better as the film continues. MM is unnerving as usual.
The gore is graphic and surprising. Ed Begley's arm getting torn off was...yeesh. The transformations were cool too
Lotsa wonderful TABs tits ass and bush. Kinski is naked most of the time and the red heads are perky and the perfect size.
Incest as a plot point? Unsettling for sure.
Rating: 8/10
#58 - Grizzly aka Red Machine [2014]
Date Watched: 2/24/15
Not sure why the hell this thing changed titles so many times. Originally called Red Machine (after one of Timothy Treadwell's bears), then Endangered and then finally Grizzly. Maybe they were hoping people would mistake it for a remake of the 1976 film? Who knows. It doesn't matter as this is a boilerplate killer animal movie. Orca. Piranha. Lake Placid...if you've seen any of those, you've seen Grizzly. The cast is surprisingly made up of well-known actors but since the script is so simple, they really aren't given much to do. James Marsden is the best of the bunch, playing against type as a loner, Tom Jane looks and sounds pissed about the state of his acting career, Scott Glenn phones it in and Billy Bob Thornton's dorky bear hunter is forgettable and underutilized.
The biggest problem is the lack of good bear kills. That's the only reason to watch these kinds of movies and most of the ones in Grizzly are off-screen! Bear attacks, victim is pulled away and blood splatters...that's it. Rinse, lather, repeat. The worst part is that they tease you early on with some decent gore but then chicken out and turn it into a TV movie. I expected much more considering the director was behind Saw V which featured buckets of blood. The only other thing of note is the ominous, maze-like forest scenery. It's beautifully shot and gets you in the wilderness mood. You want a good killer bear movie? Check out The Edge starring Anthony Hopkins and Alec Baldwin. Best killer bear movie around (y'know cuz there are SO many).
Rating: 5/10
#59 - The Woman In Black 2: Angel of Death [2015]
Date Watched: 2/25/15
Atmospheric and visually stunning, but completely lacking any kind of suspense or originality. The spooky scenery and Gothic cinematography are impressive and may even better than the first in that regard. The eerie fog, foreboding forest and the dank, creaky old mansion evoke shades of Hammer's early films featuring Dracula And Frankenstein.
Unfortunately, style is all the movie has to offer. It lacks any kind of tension and its over-reliance on blatantly obvious boo scares made me actively hate it. Whether it's a crow flying towards a window or a quick glimpse of a ghost, you can be sure it'll be accompanied by a jolt of loud music in a pitiful attempt to scare you. This is a trademark of bad horror movies. When will studios and directors learn that jump scares are a sign of cheap, lazy filmmaking? On top of the bullshit boo scares, everything is a little too dark on purpose. It may have been my TV but a good 80% of the scenes suffer from muddled lighting making it very hard to discern what was happening. Darkness and shadow can be used to great effect, but here it hurts the movie because it's hard to be scared if you can't see what the hell is going on. The cast is also completely forgettable. Lastly, I liked the shift to the World War II setting. That time period is so interesting to me because it was like a different world and it just adds to the feeling of isolation. However, they don't utilize it or explore the wartime themes enough to make a difference.
Like the mansion where the frightful Woman in Black resides, you would do well to stay far, far away from this humdrum attempt at horror.
Rating: 4/10
#60 - What We Do In The Shadows [2015]
Date Watched: 2/25/15
Parody done right. The eclectic indie cast is phenomenal, the humor is fresh and consistent, the horror elements get fully explored in creative ways and it's energetically shot and framed. I enjoyed the many subtle nods to horror films past.
Taika Watiti and Jermaine Clement pull triple duty starring, writing and directing and they do a magnificent job. Even though it's shot as a mockumentary, you can tell that both of them are natural storytellers. The story and concept remain fresh throughout, constantly coming up with new scenarios ripe for comedy. The cast has excellent chemistry as well. Each became a vampire at a different time so their styles and cultures clash resulting in comedy gold. Watiti's character is a hopeless romantic gentlemen, Clement's is a brooding Goth, and another is an ancient 8,000-year-old Count Orlok type. He turns a modern human into a vampire which gives the audience even more insight into the vampire world which, besides the bloodsucking, is just as amusing and random as our own. Add other genre staples such as werewolves (or "swearwolves") and vampire hunters to the mix, and the result is refreshing and hilarious.
The comedy ranges from sight gags and pop culture references to sarcastic zingers and making fun of countless vampire tropes. The amount of heart and intelligence that has been injected into the film shows just how dedicated Watiti and Clement are. Visually it's nothing amazing being a mockumentary, but it's still impressive how good the film looks. Props to the tight editing and pacing as the film never drags or overstays its welcome. Bloody well-done!
Rating: 8.5/10
#61 - The Funhouse [1981]
Date Watched: 2/26/15
Opening has a very Halloween type feel with the point of view shot and the clown mask
A nice pair of tits early on. I love it!
Aaaah that crazy homeless bitch in the restroom. The harbinger. GOD IS WATCHING YOU!
Drags a little as they explore the carnival, but it's worth the wait because the fun house is fucking awesome! The giant eye in particular is creative and unique. I also really like the crane shot after the fun house closes
This is above average definitely. I really like when she goes underneath into the inner mechanical workings of the dark ride. It's almost as ominous as the ride itself.
Rating: 7/10
#62 - Razorback [1984]
Date Watched: 2/27/15
Stylish and distinctly Australian. The desolate, almost apocalyptic Australian setting is used to great effect and the scenery is beautifully photographed. It feels like an alien world at times, especially in the trippy dream sequences. The opener is fantastic. It sets the mood perfectly and gives you a glimpse of the film's style, an amalgamation of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre and Mad Max. Knocking off the supposed main character early feels like a deliberate nod to Psycho. I dig it because it's different from the typical horror narrative structure. The final confrontation in the slaughterhouse reminds me of end of The Terminator in the Cyberdyne robotics factory. They were made the same year so it's a nifty coincidence. I enjoyed the gnarly 1980's synth score as well.
Rating: 7.5/10
#63 - Mindwarp [1992]
Date Watched: 2/27/15
Much like its central theme, this movie is nothing like what it seems, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. I dug the visuals and anti-religious themes as well as the chunky gore. Angus Scrimm is excellent as a cultish leader while Bruce Campbell is decent. The rest of the cast leaves something to be desired. It's German title was Brain Slasher, a better one in my opinion.
Rating: 7/10
#64 - Excision [2012]
Date Watched: 2/27/15
Gruesome and deeply obsessed with its themes of duality and perception, Excision is a disturbing but compelling watch. Shame that the marketing behind this was so misleading, placing the hot version of Annalynne McCord's character front and center when she barely looks like that. That poster above? I flipped it because it made more sense given the film's context.
Rating: 7/10
#65 - Say Anything... [1989]
Date Watched: 2/28/15
Well-acted, effortlessly romantic and charmingly funny, director Cameron Crowe's debut is one of the best romantic comedies of all-time. The cast is stellar and the soundtrack is expertly chosen, as would become Crowe's trademark. John Cusack and Ione Skye have some of the best chemistry I've seen in a romantic comedy. It feels 100% real thanks mainly to Cusack's immense charisma.
Rating: 8.5/10
#66 - Motel Hell [1980]
Date Watched: 3/1/15
Above average scarefest with tongue planted firmly in cheek. It's visually creative and grimly funny, with a hint of genre satire. The cast is totally game and while some ham it up, they're better than your typical horror movie. The gore isn't overwrought, but it's gruesomely effective. Two scenes in particular are memorable: the trippy garden hypnosis scene and the chainsaw duel in the finale that makes the movie. I highly recommend this to horror fans!
Rating: 7.5/10
#67 - Deliver Us From Evil [2014]
Date Watched: 3/1/15
A spooky and atmospheric mix of horror and detective mystery. I enjoyed this unorthodox approach because it made the material feel more realistic as well as refreshing in this age of exorcism overload. Eric Bana is badass as always and Edgar Ramirez is the fittest priest you'll ever see. They both handle the drama very well, especially the eternally underrated Bana. The mystery aspects are intriguing and give the scares an ominous undercurrent. The visuals are impressive, with many silhouetted shots and unique filming locations like the Bronx Zoo. This is a major step up for director Scott Derrickson in terms of quality and story. I recommend this to any and all horror fans.
Rating: 7.5/10
#68 - Rushmore [1998]
Date Watched: 3/2/15
One of director Wes Anderson's best works about unrequited love and a refusal to grow up. It revived Bill Murray's career, launched Jason Schwartzman's and brought Anderson's quirky art-house filmmaking style into the mainstream. His signature combination of eccentric characters and weirdly unique settings was not fully developed yet but it still gives the film a mesmerizing appeal because you become so attached to the characters. Bill Murray is sublime as unhappy industrialist Herman Blume who sees Schwartzman's ambitious but flawed academic as both a son and a reflection of himself. They both pine for the affections of elementary school teacher Rosemary Cross, played perfectly by Olivia Williams. It's the classic friends-become-enemies-become-friends motif present in many of Anderson's subsequent films.
The 60's pop soundtrack fits the film's coming of age themes very well particularly selections from The Who and The Kinks (who were originally supposed to comprise the entire soundtrack). Visually, you can expect a subdued form of Anderson's now-well known style, but nothing as vibrant as say The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou. If you're not familiar with Wes Anderson, this is the perfect place to begin. Recommended.
Rating: 8.5/10
#69 - Body of Lies [2008]
Date Watched: 3/3/15
The trifecta of Leonardo DiCaprio, Russell Crowe and Mark Strong coupled with Ridley Scott's gripping direction make this political spy film potent and thrilling. I usually hate films set in the Middle East, not because of the political & military conflicts, but because it makes for bland and ugly filmmaking. Muddy tan-brown cinematography in dirty, crowded villages with no clear cut villain doesn't exactly afford much creativity visually or thematically. A few films have risen above the rest, but overall the pickings are slim. Well not to worry because we can add another good one to the list. Body of Lies doesn't rewrite the spy formula, but it tells a complex, interwoven story effortlessly and efficiently. Having events unfold from multiple perspectives with all these moving parts really gives you an idea of the scale and complexity of global espionage. DiCaprio is in fine form as always, Crowe's CIA boss is impulsive and headstrong much to DiCaprio's detriment and Mark Strong has a magnetic presence as the head of Jordanian intelligence. Scott keeps things moving briskly thanks to solid pacing.
Rating: 8/10
#70 - Curtains [1983]
Date Watched: 3/3/15
A standard slasher with a few creepy scenes. The cast is a mixed bag made up of mostly unknowns with the exception of Dean Wormer himself, John Vernon, and Samantha Eggar from Cronenberg's The Brood. The story has potential and blurs the fantasy/reality line effectively once or twice, but it doesn't aspire to be anything but an 80's slasher. I liked the killer's odd choice of mask, an old haggish-looking witch. It's not terribly scary, but it's yet another unique mask in a genre full of them. The gore is disappointing with much of the kills cutting away or occurring off-screen entirely, though the infamous ice skating scene is well done.
Rating: 5/10
#71 - Top Five [2014]
Date Watched: 3/4/15
Thanks to Chris Rock's whip-smart script and surprisingly deft direction, Top Five turns out to be a sharp and witty comedy about life, love, addiction and sex instead of the vanity project of a washed-up comedian many thought it would be. Rock and Rosario Dawson have believable chemistry and their various conversations about pop culture, politics and stereotypes are funny and fresh. The rest of the ensemble cast is used in small doses and does a great job. I thought they might overuse Cedric the Entertainer's character but he's only around for one hilariously awkward flashback scene. I also enjoyed the celebrity cameos throughout. The film also has a satiric edge that it uses to lampoon the current state of the entertainment industry and its obsession with reality TV and pointless sequels. Recommended.
Rating: 7.5/10
#72 - Star Trek III: The Search for Spock [1984]
Date Watched: 3/4/15
The great Leonard Nimoy passed away last Friday February 27th and to honor him, I watched his first directorial foray into the film series. It's a thrilling Trek adventure as Jim and the Enterprise crew seek out their old friend while combating a vicious Klingon warlord played by the great Christopher Lloyd. I have to hand it to Nimoy, whose direction and skill are immediately apparent as he handles the emotional character moments and the exciting action equally well. The production design and cinematography are also commendable and make Search for Spock one of the most visually impressive Trek films there is. And to think this followed the massive success of Wrath of Khan and ended up being a worthy and, more importantly, necessary sequel. RIP good sir knowing you did the franchise proud.
Rating: 9/10
#73 - Blue Thunder [1983]
Date Watched: 3/5/15
Glorious 80's action and government conspiracy cross paths in this exciting actioner starring the late, great Roy Scheider. John Badham directs, slowing building up suspense with dashes of thrills until the exhilarating, action-packed finale. I dug the gnarly synthesizer score (that I proudly own on vinyl!) and Scheider's scenery-chewing badassery and pissing contest with Malcolm McDowell. The helicopter stunts are wild and pulled off practically. I also really liked the futuristic design of the titular helicopter, a sleek and stealthy aircraft armed to teeth with state-of-the-art weaponry and gadgets. James Bond would be impressed. Look, I'm a sucker for 80's action flicks so I enjoyed the hell out of this one. And as always, bonus points for TABs.
Rating: 7.5/10
#74 - Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home [1986]
Date Watched: 3/5/15
After three operatic space adventures, director and star Leonard Nimoy lightens things up with an energetic and humorous jaunt as the Enterprise crew must travel back to the 1980's and bring back humpback whales to save the Earth after it is besieged by a super-monolithic space probe. I'll admit, it took me a little while to get used to the lighthearted tone after the epic nature of the previous films. However, once you realize what they were going for, it's a entertaining ride. The cast's chemistry is excellent as it always is, with many secondary characters like Checkov getting to shine in the comedic scenes. Shatner plays Kirk as a bit more of a dick this go round, but it works and Nimoy is outstanding as usual. The production design continues to be impressive, though the 80's setting is inherently limiting. Onto The Final Frontier...
Rating: 8.5/10
#75 - Star Trek V: The Final Frontier [1989]
Date Watched: 3/5/15
I have found the motto "every odd Trek is shite" to be false thus far. The Final Frontier may not be as skillfully directed or visually impressive, but it's still a damn good adventure that has Kirk & Co. kidnapped by a persuasive zealot trying to find his God at the edge of the universe. Its main themes of the power of beliefs and religion vs. science lead to some intriguing philosophical and theological discussions. I have to say I love the idea of having some of the crew face their greatest fears. It develops the characters and give the actors a chance to show off their skills. On the flipside, the underwhelming action scenes and poor special effects are inexcusable considering what was pulled off in earlier entries with less money. It may not be up to par with its predecessors, but I still dug this one quite a bit. Now to a proper send-off...
Rating: 8/10
#76 - Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country [1991]
Date Watched: 3/6/15
A proper send-off for the Enterprise crew that has Kirk and McCoy framed for the assassination of a Klingon High Chancellor and their attempt to clear their names and thwart a conspiracy. It features the great Christopher Plummer as vengeful Klingon Chang who spouts Hamlet and orders with equal vivacity. There's a lot to like here, the main event being an anti-gravity massacre aboard a Klingon Bird of Prey that gets surprisingly bloody. The cast's chemistry remains the heart and soul of these stories and The Undiscovered Country takes its time honoring them. Director Nicholas Meyer returns after Nimoy and Shatner took the reins for the past three films, and he does a good job staging both the action and the drama.
Rating: 8.5/10
#77 - Chappie [2015]
Date Watched: 3/6/15
After getting overly excited for Neill Blomkamp's second film Elysium, and subsequently overrating it, I termed this phenomenon of heaping praise upon a film because one is blind to their own expectations "The Elysium Effect". It happens to the best of us...we see an incredible trailer and it gets us instantly pumped. We start crafting the potential movie in our minds and keep making it more and more complicated and epic until our expectations are untenable, where NO movie could satisfy them. Then the movie comes out and you see what you want to see, labeling it a masterpiece to protect your own ego. Lesson learned.
This brings me to Chappie, Blomkamp's follow-up to Elysium. All through production and pre-release I've keep my expectations low because I refused to take the bait yet again. Fool me twice, shame on me...you get the idea. In grounding my expectations, I enjoyed the hell out of Chappie, probably more than I should have. It's essentially an R-rated Short Circuit that doesn't take itself too seriously. Now that's an idea I can get behind. The most famous cast members all take a backseat to Chappie himself (itself?) and his interaction with a gang of neo-punks and his creator Deon, played by an intense Dev Patel. Hugh Jackman channeling Steve Irwin (I shit you not) and a very insane, Mad Max-looking mofo make up the memorable bad guys. It features a few cool ideas like transferring consciousness to a robot and the inherent problems with artificial intelligence. Blomkamp's social commentary is in no way subtle, but it didn't get too melodramatic here. It posits the question of just how much different are we really from a machine that can think and feel? Whether the film actually answers it is up to you.
The film showcases Blomkamp's previous style in terms of visuals and setting, but the scale is smaller. Growing up in Johannesburg clearly had an effect on him as I can see him imagining a story like this as a child where he meets a robot and goes on an adventure. Johannesburg is not all slums this time around, though. The cinematography and colors choices are much more vibrant and the abandoned factory affords some interesting shots. We get many nods to the sci-fi classics, most noticeably RoboCop 1 & 2 with the ED-209-inspired tactical robot that Jackman creates dubbed the MOOSE. The special effects are outstanding as expected. Blomkamp is a master at creating extraordinary effects on the cheap, and here he is only limited by his budget. All the tech is pretty subdued compared to District 9 and Elysium with the exception of the MOOSE. It's a neurally-controlled mechanized death machine armed with mini-guns, missiles, cluster bombs and claws that can run, jump and fly as it shoots, explodes and dismembers. The gore is toned down as well, save for one gruesome scene in the finale. Special mention goes to the kickass synth score by Hans Zimmer which complements the robotic action exceptionally well. It was my favorite thing about the film.
This is currently getting slammed as having narrative shortcomings like Elysium, but the difference here is that Chappie's reach doesn't exceed its grasp and the result, while no masterpiece, is still a fun sci-fi action flick from a talented filmmaker that I can recommend!
Rating: 7.5/10
#78 - Star Trek: Generations [1994]
Date Watched: 3/6/15
Following in the direct footsteps of it's predecessors, Generations transports The Next Generation crew to the big screen while also linking it to Kirk and Co. Malcolm McDowell plays our conniving and cunning villain, a El-Aurian who is willing to destroys planets in order to find his way back to the Nexus, an energy ribbon that lets you live out your wildest dreams and fantasies for all eternity. Tempting, no?
Rating: 7.5/10
#79 - Tangled [2010]
Date Watched: 3/6/15
Delightful, eye-poppingly animated adventure that reshapes but doesn't break the Disney mold. Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi have stellar chemistry that makes Rapunzel and Flynn fun to watch and root for. The scale is smaller than most Disney films, but the animation is some of their best. It's a vibrant, absolutely gorgeous feast for the eyes with all the lush forest scenery. The 3D is also exceptional. It may not have gotten the love that Frozen received a few years later, but this is an equally fun family adventure.
Rating: 8/10
#80 - Star Trek: First Contact [1996]
Date Watched: 3/7/15
This is the only one of the original ten Trek films I actually saw in the theater. I was a die hard Star Wars fan, having been given the VHS collection of the pre-special editions and seeing the special editions released theatrically in 1997, so I tended to avoid Star Trek. That changed when my friend Ricky and his dad asked me to go with them to Eastpoint Movies 10. I enjoyed the movie but don't remember much about it (often confusing it and Insurrection) but upon my re-watch, things started to come back to me.
First Contact is arguably the best of the Next Generation films thanks to good chemistry, an efficient script and a uniquely strange villain in The Borg. Riker himself directs and does a bang-up job. The action and drama are handled fairly well.
Rating: 8/10
#81 - Star Trek: Insurrection [1998]
Date Watched: 3/8/15
Despite having F. Murray Abraham as the villain, Star Trek: Insurrection's smaller scale and slow storyline leave it feeling like a laborious TV movie instead of an exciting adventure. I found the villains, the So'Na to be boring, which in turn made the film boring. The So'Na want to live forever and have kept themselves alive via medical procedures and cosmetic surgery, so this should afford some grotesque make-up and effects right? Wrong. Instead of an intimidating Frankenstein-like foe, we get a main baddie who looks like he has a plastic bag over his face. It's immensely disappointing. The quest for eternal life is an interesting one, but here it plays out melodramatically. This was also the first time all the space scenes were done with CGI and the result, while dated, is better than expected. I still yearn for the models and matte paintings though.
Rating: 6/10
#82 - Star Trek: Nemesis [2002]
Date Watched: 3/9/15
While not nearly as bad as its reputation suggests, Star Trek: Nemesis is arguably the weakest entry in the franchise because of poor direction and a misguided script. Seasoned editor Stuart Baird takes over directing duties from Riker (Jonathan Frakes), which seems like a good idea on paper. The man has edited many of my favorite films such as The Omen, Superman, Demolition Man and Skyfall. On the flip-side, he has only directed two other films: Executive Decision, a silly but fun actioner starring Kurt Russell and U.S. Marshals, a solid sequel to The Fugitive starring Wesley Snipes that was one of the first movies I saw by myself on a school field trip. Neither are science fiction, so why choose him over someone like David Carson, who directed Star Trek: Generations after directing many episodes of The Next Generation?
The final film is the antithesis of Insurrection, action-packed but narratively hollow. The main cast is getting a little long in the tooth and it shows in a few of the more physical scenes. Patrick Stewart is in great shape for his age, but he's no spring chicken anymore. The biggest surprise here is Tom Hardy as the villain Shinzon, a clone of Picard hellbent on getting revenge. At the time, Hardy had only nabbed bit parts in movies like Black Hawk Down, so to see him in such an odd role was interesting. Unfortunately, the dialogue, look and direction he's given REALLY hurts this character. It should've been a enticing thematic match-up as Picard faces off against a cunning, evil version of himself with the fate of the universe hanging in the balance. Instead, he comes off feeling like an impulsive and juvenile caricature of Loki in his shiny purple plastic get-up. It's a damn shame because we've seen what Hardy can do with a proper villainous role. Ron Perlman is somewhat wasted as Hardy's nefarious second-in-command. When you have Perlman and his soothing voice, you should take advantage of it!
Some of the scenes are so poorly shot and lit, yet others looked great. It's like they had two different directors alternate filming scenes. The lack of consistency really got on my nerves. I can only blame Baird and cinematographer Jeffrey Kimball. Conversely, the action scenes are well-directed but not imaginative or unique in any way. An early one involving futuristic dune buggies is fun to watch but makes no sense. Wheeled vehicles appear to be obsolete in the Trek universe thanks to the discovery of teleportation and ubiquity of flying shuttles and skiffs. It feels woefully out of place. The visuals are the one area I feel the original Trek films are vastly superior despite being older. First Contact is the only visually creative one. Seriously, go back and watch any of the first six films (especially Wrath of Khan or Search for Spock) and tell me I'm wrong.
Nemesis has little else to offer, but I do think it's worth watching if you're a Trek fan. If you sat down to watch all ten films chronologically like I did, what's one more?
Rating: 5.5/10
#83 - Honeymoon [2014]
Date Watched: 3/10/15
I love films like this. Cryptic, low budget horror films that don't spoon-feed answers to the audience. Honeymoon starts out innocently enough but slowly and menacingly transforms into a downright disturbing love story with a distinctly Cronenberg-ian ending.
Rating: 7.5/10
#84 - Con Air [1997]
Date Watched: 3/10/15
One of my favorite films growing up, Con Air should be a terrible movie but thanks to its excellent ensemble cast, exciting practical stunts and the full exploration of its goofy premise, it happens to be one of the best 90's action films around.
Rating: 8.5/10
#85 - Faults [2015]
Date Watched: 3/11/15
Cults have always been an interesting subject in movies. Most go the horror route with ritual sacrifice and virgin blood, but some would rather explore the power and influence the cults and their leaders have over their members. Faults falls in later category, following a meek man claiming to be a mind control expert who is hired to deprogram a young cult member by her parents. Everything begins normally but gradually makes you question just who exactly is in control. The cast is excellent, with perpetual character actor Leland Orser turning in a career best performance and Grindhouse hottie Mary Elizabeth Winstead as the doe-eyed but deceitful deprogramee.
Rating: 6.5/10
#86 - Labyrinth [1986]
Date Watched: 3/12/15
A whimsical Jim Henson classic that made me feel like a kid again. Great cast with the lusciously innocent Jennifer Connelly playing the heroine and David Bowie hamming it up bigtime as the Goblin King, the perfect fairy tale villain. Bowie's androgynous look and theatricality really make the movie feel like a lucid dream. The effects are exceptional, as is to be expected from the Jim Henson company. The Bog of Eternal Stench and Ludo's Bigfoot-like make-up are the showstoppers in a movie full of gorgeous things to look at. Highly recommended to everyone, whether you're 8 or 80.
Rating: 9/10
#87 - Deliverance [1972]
Date Watched: 3/12/15
A controversial classic that still packs a wallop. It may be well-known for two scenes in particular, but those are just part of a greater whole. It's hard to describe the appeal of a movie like this, but the adventure and survival aspects are, in a strange way, thrilling. Pitting men against not only each other but against the elements and their own inadequacies is endlessly compelling. They devolve into savages who must embrace their primal instincts to survive. It's definitely a 'man movie' like Jaws or First Blood. There isn't a single female character in the film (except a quick shot of a leprous matriarch) which evoked the isolation of The Thing. It actual has more in common with it then you might think, especially in tone and mood. It doesn't celebrate the violence, it makes it feel very real with many consequences, especially how traumatic it can be.
Jon Voight and Burt Reynolds are superb. Reynolds' hardass outdoorsman may be gruff, but his machismo does not feel forced or over-the-top in any way. I've honestly never seen Voight in a dramatically challenging role like this, being familiar with his later roles in Anaconda and Varsity Blues, and I was impressed. His character's arc from typical everyman to raw hunter is not only convincing, but career-defining. Ned Beatty and Ronny Cox are very good in their film debuts, both playing against type. Director John Boorman adeptly handles the dramatic scenes and plays to the actor's strengths.
The scenery and landscape the characters must traverse is beautifully photographed and strikingly natural, a testament to cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond's skill. Boorman's direction is deliberate, with minimal camera movement for the character driven scenes and mobile, organic shots during the river segments. In addition to the backwoods bad guys, nature itself becomes an enemy with treacherous terrain and raging rapids with jutting rocks that threaten to break every bone in your body.
Even almost 45 years later, Deliverance still stands as a landmark film that should not be missed.
Rating: 9.5/10
#88 - Link [1986]
Date Watched: 3/14/15
There are only two things required for a good killer monkey movie: a monkey and that monkey gorily killing people. Link has the ape, but not much else. I got one hour in and fell asleep because the only death scene (I think, we never see it) happens off-screen. Nothing happens for the first 30 minutes. The only redeeming factor is that you get to see Link the orangutan wearing a tuxedo doing butler-type things, which I found inexplicably hilarious. That's it. Just watch Monkey Shines instead.
Rating: 3.5/10
#89 - Run All Night [2015]
A solid crime drama with visual flair. It's Liam Neeson's best movie since 2012's The Grey. He's complemented by a stellar supporting cast including Joel Kinnaman as his desperate son, Common as an Agent 47-like contract killer and Ed Harris as a scenery-chewing mob boss. Like Neeson, they turn in some of their best work in a while. While the marketing understandably sold this as an action film in the vein of Taken, and it does have a few nifty action sequences, it does the film a disservice. Neeson plays against type, dumping the good guy image for a much more interesting antihero role. The conflicted character could easily be one of the scumbag henchmen his character in Taken dispatches in droves. This makes the character more interesting and allows Neeson to show off his acting skills. It helps that the story is an engrossing one about a man atoning for his sins and sacrificing himself for his son. Good stuff.
Rating: 7/10
#90 - Sunset Blvd. [1950]
Date Watched: 3/15/15 (started on Friday 3/13)
One of the all-time greats, and for good reason. This was my first exposure to Billy Wilder. I know, how can a movie buff like myself have not seen any of his films? Well, I'm a more modern movie buff with a range from 1960's onward. I'm big on the 30's and 40's Universal horror films, and of course the classics like The Wizard of Oz, Gone With The Wind, etc. It doesn't matter cuz as they say, better late than never.
I love the cast, I love the film noir feel, I love its satire of the film industry and I love Wilder's technical ingenuity and prowess. There are some long takes here that belong up there with the best. The stunning black and white cinematography and the unique settings paint a seedy portrait of L.A. not seen before. The voice over narration rocks.
Rating: 10/10
#91 - Terminator 2: Judgment Day [1991]
Date Watched: 3/15/15
Whenever T2 comes on TV (usually AMC or SyFy), I feel compelled to watch it. It's my favorite movie of all-time and just gets better with every single subsequent viewing. Considering the overabundance of blockbusters nowadays, to watch one with heart, soul, wit and balls just blows all the others away. None of them can even come close to doing what James Cameron accomplished with T2. He created the perfect sequel.
Rating: 10/10
#92 - Monsters: Dark Continent [2015]
Date Watched: 3/16/15
Mimics every Middle East military movie of the past decade. It's WAY too long, with the first half being an inferior Hurt Locker clone. They could've excised at least 30 minutes from it and we would've gotten a much better movie. Normally that extra time is spent on character development, but here the characters all fall under the various military cliches. God bless 'em, but soldiers just don't make interesting lead characters.
I'm sure most of the complaints will focus on the lack of monster action, but much like its predecessor, it's less interested in the monsters and more in the human drama. Unfortunately, the drama is lacking. Monsters succeeded because the characters felt real and actual grew, but the soldiers in Dark Continent don't really experience any changes other than PTSD. The overabundance of war-themed movies starring shell-shocked soldiers has lessened the impact of characters like this in recent years.
Rating: 5/10
#93 - Focus [2015]
Date Watched: 3/16/15
Though the formula is tried and true, the style and verve of Focus along with its two likable leads make it a compelling watch. Smith and Robbie have excellent chemistry, and Smith plays a jaded, assholish version of his usual boisterous roles. Smith may not be the true A-lister he once was, but he can still command a scene. Robbie plays her role with a surprising amount of sweetness mixed with a heapin' helping of sex appeal. The supporting cast is pretty good too, even Paulo from Lost is better than usual.
The plot is a familiar one with twists and turns 'round every corner, but it's all part of the fun and it does kind of suck you into the glamor and allure of it all. Compared to their previous films, directors Glenn Ficara & John Requa give Focus a much more robust look, with vibrant splashes of color melding well with the sun-tinged tones of New Orleans and Buenos Aires. It's all set to a well-chosen soundtrack of hits both new and old, most notably The Stones' "Sympathy for the Devil", a personal favorite.
I'll admit I didn't exactly have high hopes for this one, so it was a pleasant surprise. Worth a watch.
Rating: 7/10
#94 - The Pyramid [2014]
Date Watched: 3/17/15
Damn, this one got ripped a new asshole. I understand people hating the found footage format, but it can be done properly. It allows anyone to tell a story without the luxury of a Hollywood budget. The Pyramid isn't anything special, but it's light years ahead of As Above, So Below which squandered its immense potential. At least The Pyramid has better characters, some cool ideas, a nifty monster and enough lighting so I can actually see what the hell is happening. Casting Denis O'Hare as the head archeologist and Chronicle's Ashley Hinshaw as his daughter instantly gives the movie a bit more credibility, with the rest of the unknown cast doing a decent job.
The design of the pyramid itself, a three-sided booby-trapped labyrinth, is cool enough to hold your attention and not become visually stale, which is all you can ask for when it comes to found footage. My favorite thing about it is the inclusion of Egyptian myths into the plot. Unlike AASB, the filmmakers did some actual research and incorporated it in a cool cinematic way. It does have its problems, like a reliance on boo scares and a few plot holes, but for a low budget horror movie these things are forgivable.
If you were as disappointed with As Above, So Below as I was, I'd recommend giving this one a shot because it's what AASB should've been.
Rating: 6.5/10
#95 - The Signal [2014]
Date Watched: 3/17/15
Hard science fiction reminiscent of The Twilight Zone, one of my all-time favorite television shows. It has big ideas and while it may stumble occasionally, it ends up being a thought-provoking metaphor of logic vs. emotion, which I enjoyed immensely. The capable cast handles the material well and the special effects are impressive considering the small budget ($4M). I also dug the visual style and trippy imagery. The ending hinted at a larger world and left me with quite a few questions, but for once that's a good thing! Recommended if you like sci-fi.
Rating: 8/10
#96 - Leprechaun [1993]
Date Watched: 3/17/15
From the poster alone, you should know to expect nothing more than a silly 90's horror flick about a killer leprechaun. Starring a young Jennifer Aniston in one of her first film roles, she's wooden and clearly got the part based on her looks, but that's par for the course in low budget horror. Warwick Davis hams it up big time as the titular leprechaun, spewing the one-liners with glee. He clearly had fun making this, enough to return for the sequels. Hey, little people need paychecks too! The gore is minimal and the kills are silly (one guy dies via pogo stick) but it tries to incorporate as much leprechaun lore as it can (there's a goofy running gag about the leprechaun affinity for shining shoes). Still, it's a fun slasher to watch after a few Guinesses.
Rating: 6/10
#97 - Annie Hall [1977]
Trailer
Date Watched: 3/18/15
Woody Allen's witty and loquacious love story, buoyed by Diane Keaton's charming and sexily sweet performance. The fourth wall breaking was a cool narrative touch and pulled of creatively most times. The jokes are a mile a minute but undeniably funny. New York's everyday side is captured nicely too.
Rating: 9/10
#98 - Charley Varrick [1973]
Trailer
Date Watched: 3/19/15
Walter Matthau stars as an intelligent bank robber who is chased by the mob after robbing a bank containing their money. Don Siegel's patient direction and the effortless performance of Matthau make this worth a watch. The supporting cast includes Andy Robinson, John Vernon and Joe Don Baker as an imposing hitman. This is a true 70's crime drama, as it deliberately takes its time unfolding the story, which will turn off the more hyperactive viewers but I miss this style of smart filmmaking.
Rating: 7/10
#99 - Waking Life [2001]
Trailer
Date Watched: 3/20/15
Trippy and ethereal, Waking Life is like a lucid dream that espouses tons of thought-provoking philosophical questions. Richard Linklater has managed to constantly grow and change as a filmmaker, trying new styles or mixing them with old techniques resulting in films that are refreshing and challenging. The rotoscoped animation only enhances the hazy but familiar style of dreams we've all experienced. The best part is the philosophical concepts the film explores. While one critic called it "pedantic navel-gazing", I found it to be mesmerizing in that the film doesn't try to state which perspective is correct, it only explains the concepts in an accessible, conversational way and let's the viewer to decide which ideas to accept. I love this because so many films try to cram their messages and beliefs down your throat, much to their detriment. The cast is a mix of celebrities and everyday people, which affords a balanced viewpoint.
Rating: 9/10
#100 - Body Double [1984]
Trailer
Date Watched: 3/20/15
A potent mix of Hitchcockian intrigue and giallo-style shocks from Brian De Palma. It follows an ordinary actor whose life turns upside down after he becomes obsessed with a sexy neighbor. It's equal parts Rear Window and Vertigo, with other Hitchcock nods as expected. There are a number of impressive long takes and De Palma uses colors to enhance his shots incredibly well. Lots of TABs, in all shapes and sizes. Melanie Griffith is excellent in one of her first large roles.
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