jlastra Reviews

Spaceman (I) (2024)

a waste of time

[1/10 · 27 May 2024]

I gave this a look because of Adam Sandler.

What a waste of time.

You will need to be a major Adam Sandler fan to sit through his entire movie. It is not credible in anyway. To say it's science fiction is a not even close. It is a farce a best.

There are so many more worth movies to watch.

I like Adam Sandler but this is way beyond his scope. I'm really surprised he agreed to take this role as it is a complete departure from his more enjoyable and entertains roles in other movies.

I give it one star only so I can write this review. All the others who have it more than one star must be huge fans of his.

Drops of God (2023)

Have a glass of wine and binge watch all the episodes

[8/10 · 27 May 2024]

I had no idea who these actors were.

I had no idea who the writers were, nor the director or producers.

I'm not a wine snob but I do appreciate good wine and a novice collector so in that sense I was willing to take a chance or the first episode.

It's a compelling story and the more you watch the more you want to watch.

The characters and acting are outstanding. I commend whoever did the casting because each part was credible.

There are many things I liked about this series.

The filming locations, the languages and the cultural influence they have on the story.

During the course of the episodes I found myself with strong feelings toward the main characters.

I felt pity, sorrow, joy, happiness, relief, elation and finally satisfaction.

Unlike many classic stories, this one does not have a pronounced good guy or bad guy.

There is a contest yes, but there is no real loser.

For me, I believe those that understand, appreciate and are educated about wines, will probably have a more pronounced appreciation and understanding of the story.

For me, it's really all about the love that is shared between family members. A fathers love for his daughter. A Sons love for his father.

Though the will and the contest and all the money and assets that are at stake are significant and a big part of the story.

The real story is about the memories a young Camille has about her father and what experiences they shared over a brief time.

A man of brilliance and skill and gifted in the science and art of wine, he was also eccentric.

There is wisdom in the words.

I really liked the conversation about wine being shared. It does indeed create a link between people, especially during a special occasion. Once a bottle is open and shared, it is a singular experience that cannot be replicated.

I found myself feeling badly for Issesi. He is a likable character and seems to be duped at every turn. He does however, realize at the end that his father is indeed his father because they share the bond of unselfish love.

The ending is the best.

As Shakespeare would say "all is well, that ends well"

A Simple Favor (2018)

Kendrick & Lively - Brilliant

[7/10 · 25 May 2024]

I will admit, I was somewhat skeptical to invest time in watching this movie. Somehow, Netflix seems to push some movies to the top of their rankings and I get repeated links to watch the trailers.

Welcome to the age of AI.

I'm not huge Kendrick fan and I've never seen a single film or show with Lively.

I saw the Accountant at the theater but only because of Affleck.

I think she's a good actress though nothing more beyond that.

This film allows her to be that kind of nerdy girl we know from her roles in Pitch Perfect but take it to the next level as she evolves into a savvy aware person.

The acting is excellent as the players have an opportunity to develop their characters and the chemistry grows.

The plot line is solid and there are many twits and turns that will create even the biggest sleuth to second guess what's coming next.

For me the movie is all about our relationship with others.

Some we call acquaintances, some we call friends and some we call family.

We may think we know someone, but do we really?

Is everyone hiding a secret?

In the final analysis, we see two women who are mothers that are devoted to their children and perhaps that is the magnet that draws these two together.

It's an excellent story, fresh and well told and brought to life by a solid cast.

The Choice (I) (2016)

a worthy watch for Nicholas Sparks fans

[7/10 · 23 May 2024]

I'm not a huge Nicholas Sparks fan but I have watched most all his movies. I've not read a single one of his books.

I'm a North Carolina native and I've been to most all the locations that his books and movies are set in.

Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach are on my list of favorites.

I had no idea who the lead actors were before watching the movie.

Netflix has it rated as I highly ranked film so when I did a quick review I saw the Maggie Grace was in the cast so that made my decision for me.

Mr Sparks has a way with a story.

He knows how to appeal to the emotions that will move you.

In this movie, it's Travis and his belief and hope.

It's he family support from Travis' family and in a non-judgemental fashion.

We take this journey with Travis because of the choices that he has made. Not just him by Gabby as well.

Each choice has it's own cause and affect.

Yes, it's a love story so that's what you get.

It's a reminder that for some, things do work out.

This film will tug at your heart strings and you may find yourself misting up a little at the end.

Taken (I) (2008)

this a solid 8 & entertaining movie

[8/10 · 23 May 2024]

If you're a Liam Neeson fan, this is for you.

It's still watchable even in 2024, 16 years after it was filmed in 2008.

One of the best movie lines ever: what I do have are a very particular set of skills Delivered only as Liam can in a very calm and paced style yet so menacing and threatening.

We also get to see a young Maggie Grace who delivers in this role in a credible way.

Luc Besson once again does a great job as writer creating a high action thriller that is non-stop and will have you on the edge of your seat the entire ride.

We feel for Liam's character.

He has committed to giving 100 percent of his life to the CIA and protecting the US.

Sadly, he loses his wife and his relationship with this daughter in the process.

To me, this movie is all about demonstrating the length he will go to keep his daughter and his ex-wife safe.

It also highlights the risk of traveling international if you're not aware of the risks.

Now you can watch all 3 Taken installments on Hulu.

Mother of the Bride (2024)

a 5 star RomCom

[5/10 · 23 May 2024]

I must admit, I was somewhat skeptical to invest my time and energy to watch this this film.

The highlight was Benjamin Bratt. Such a solid actor in a great role for him. Brooke Shields is just OK in her role. I've never really cared for her as an actress.

It's a standard formula RomCom recipe.

What made it interesting was the filming location in Phuket Thailand and the performance by Benjamin Bratt.

He is now 60 years old and is in terrific shape in this film.

In my opinion the Shields character really over plays her role.

As the Mother Of The Bride she tries to make the event more about her.

On two occasions there are scenes with people falling into the pool, it's really not that funny and the second time was just overkill.

Franklin (2024– )

Bravo Ben Franklin!

[8/10 · 19 May 2024]

At the risk of revealing a 'spoiler' as regards the end credits, I register a strong disagreement in that Ben Franklin was never properly 'thanked'.

He may have not been lauded in such a fashion as the French regarded Lafayette however in a democratic republic he has been honored with his face on the One Hundred Dollar bill.

Only he and Alexander Hamilton hold that distinction over Presidents.

This is a very entertaining and educational effort and I applaud Apple TV for it. Michael Douglas is simply brilliant in every way.

Such a critical role of Franklin to secure the support of the French in the great Revolution, otherwise there is no America.

The troops, the money and the leadership of the Marquis De Lafayette all came about as a direct influence of Ben Franklin.

History regards him as one of the key Founding Fathers much in the same manner as George Washington.

Though he was not a soldier, fighting on the front lines, what he did is not less important or critical to the success of birthing a new nation.

He was and remains a true Patriot.

Serendipity (2001)

easily a 10

[10/10 · 28 February 2024]

This is the essential RomCom.

When I think about a RomCom, this is THE one.

I've seen bits and pieces of this movie off and on over the years and finally today was able to see this on HBO...for free!

The first question is: do you believe in fate, destiny or love at first sight. If your answer is no, then skip this one, it's simply not for you.

It takes a measure of faith to believe in this movie and if you do, you are in for a most satisfying journey.

Kate & John are perfect for this movie, they simply make it work in every way.

Kate is so understated in her portrayal. She simply has the right character to pull this off.

John is magnificent, all the right amount of skepticism and belief.

If you believe in true love and fate, you'll believe in Serendipity.

Echo 3 (2022–2023)

a slow burn but worth it if you stay til the end

[8/10 · 7 February 2024]

Firstly, Mark Boal has a depth of credibility as a writer.

He has multiple Academy awards.

He's a journalist, screen writer and producer.

He gave us The Hurt Locker & Zero Dark Thirty

Let's give him a little space if he's not yet an accomplished director.

This is a screenplay based on a novel.

This is a fine effort.

The story is worthy.

It has so many layers, so you will need to peel back each layer, just like an onion.

There are so many complexities.

Fist the dynamic of the relationship between a husband and wife.

A brother and a sister and a two soldiers who are no brother-in-laws.

We are observing them in an extreme circumstance.

We see them make difficult decisions and how these decisions have consequences that not only impact them but each other and all others around them.

Why it's called Echo 3, I have no idea.

The booked is touted as a Black Ops Thriller.

I'm not so sure about that.

Maybe more of a drama/action thriller.

The acting is spectacular.

I like the way there are different Directors for the various 10 episodes.

At it's core, this movie is about determining what is most important to you and what you are willing to do to protect what is important.

In this case for Eric & Bambi, it's Amber.

They must learn to live with the consequences of their rescue mission.

It's clearly going to be more difficult for Amber.

She is not a hardened specials ops soldier like Eric & Bambi.

She must live with her guilt.

Her experience transformed her into a different person.

None of her relationships will ever be the same.

On a larger level, it's also a statement about Third World Countries.

In this case, Colombia and Venezuela in sSouth America.

For anyone who has traveled abroad, you know there are many varied cultures and viewpoints.

South America has a long a storied history of violence.

There are drug cartels and crime, corrupt governments and extreme violence.

We get a little history lesson when we see the film about the decisions made by Truman and other presidents as it relates to Central and South America.

The Last Thing He Told Me (2023– )

exceptional

[7/10 · 30 January 2024]

I'll admit the reviews I read prior to watching were not very compelling.

Sometimes, I think we all put those aside when one of your favorite actors is billed, such is the case with Jennifer Gardner.

This is a slow building drama, if you can hang in until the end, you've be rewarded.

A great story, a great cast and some compelling performances.

Jennifer once again favors this show with a signature performance and is ideal of this role. She is very believable and brings the nuance to the role, this character deserves.

The role of Bailey is somewhat polarizing, especially at the beginning. As the story continues, you'll begin to warm to her.

Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)

a solid 6

[6/10 · 22 December 2023]

It's great to have a back story about the Star Wars characters we've come to know and love.

This is a great opportunity to understand much of what motivates Han Solo.

I especially like the backstory regarding the Kessel Run and the significance of the 12 Parsec The standard time was 20 Parsec's so Han managed quite the feat in doing it 'under'12 and as he reminds Chewbacca, he 'rounded down'.

It was also great to learn more about Chewbacca and how he and Han became connected.

It's really interesting to see Emelia Clarke in her role prior to Game of Thrones,= character Daenerys Targeryn.

I found myself paying more close attention to her role and speaking parts. She really is a very talented actress.

Ron Howard does a fine job as director of this film.

It's a solid 6.

There are just a few nits.

The story pivots strongly around Han & Qi'ra and their relationship on Correlia. Can we really believe the guards nabbed her just seconds before Han clears the gate?

In any fantasy, science-fiction, yes suspend some belief in the rational and reasonable however, do we really expect the Empire to recruit someone in a matter of minutes?

Also the character of Enfys Nest just isn't believable. The character is descried as having a reputation of a pirate and marauder for us to only learn she is a baby faced girl who is out to free the slaves and aid the Rebellion. Much better character development is due on this score.

The action scenes were better than average overall.

I have a hard time believing that the fight scene at the mine took place with a single guard not making a shot that hit the Millennium Falcon.

I also had a really hard time believing the connected character relationship between Lando and L3.

Han Solo is a great character in the Star Wars franchise. We finally learn he has a real sense of larceny in his heart going back to his early days.

But has Qi're tells us, he is one of the good guys.

Ahsoka (2023– )

too many holes

[5/10 · 22 December 2023]

I've been used to solid story lines, great acting and exceptional entertainment from the Star Wars series of shows.

Sadly, this one simply does not measure up.

The dialogue is so slow. It's so basic and lacks thoughtful and creative design. Because of this, I found myself losing interest in the story.

A couple of the biggest issues I had were action sequences from previous scenes.

The biggest was the Lightsaber fight between Sabine Wren and Shin Hati.

Shin actually runs her lightsaber through Sabine yet somehow she survives?

What? How does this happen? Need before in any other scene is there a precedent for this.

The other big one was the scene where Ezra Bridger somehow is able to transport himself from the Empire's Hypering to the Republic Base with no explanation of how he did it.

Lastly, the ending leaves you hanging. There is no indication there will be any other episodes.

I did like the acting of Mary Elizabeth Winstead. She is a fine actor and does a great job in this film.

Sadly, it's not enough for me to rate over a 5.

Hunter Killer (2018)

a worthy Gerard Butler film

[6/10 · 2 December 2023]

I admit, I'm a Gerard Butler fan ever since I saw him in the film 300. He has a wide range of films from action/adventure to comedy and drama.

This is one I had not seen so after reading there reviews I decided to invest some time in it.

It's a solid cast with Gary Oldman and Common in supporting roles.

The premise takes a little belief suspicion but if you can get past that, it's a solid movie.

A bit hard to believe that a Russian Sub can go down and days later, there are survivors who are still clanging tools in the hopes they might be heard in the expanse of thousands of miles of ocean.

Beyond that, the Russian President being deposed in a coup and Americans actually going into Russia to attempt a rescue.

I found the role of the XO to be very annoying.

Besides all that, it was an entertaining film.

The action scenes were well done, the movement of military planes, ships and subs was filmed with accuracy.

The subplot of the Seal Team was done extremely well and the character of Beaman was portrayed well by Toby Stephens. I especially liked the 'no man left behind' scene.

Poker Face (2022)

Russell Crowe - acts and directs

[6/10 · 29 November 2023]

I'm a bit confused at the low average of 5.2 but it's hard to explain.

This is so unlike the dozens of other movies I've seen over the recent years. There are so many surprises, twists and turns.

You really need to pay attention to the beginning of the film. It lays the foundation for what is to follow.

Russell Crowe is an Oscar caliber actor & he does a fine job of acting as well as directing in this film.

The visuals are fantastic and the acting is very good.

It's certainly worth taking to the time to watch.

Elsa Pataky is quite compelling in her role. There is not a lot of character development but it's adequate.

If you are a Russell Crowe fan, you won't be disappointed.

In the final analysis, we learn about the weakness we all share as human beings.

There is also an encouragement to accept each others faults and weakness and rise above.

The Old Way (2023)

Nicholas Cage - Western Style

[6/10 · 27 November 2023]

You can say and think what you want about Mr Cage.

He's a legit actor with a wide range of abilities in many films and oh year, he has an Oscar for Best Actor in Leaving Las Vegas.

The plot of the story is a common one, that of revenge.

What makes this difference is his Daughter, Brooke and how the story really revolves around her and the relationship with her father.

The best scene is them sitting around the camp fire and Colton Briggs breaking down and crying at the loss of his wife.

Explaining to Brooke how much he loved her and how she made him feel.

It becomes apparent that Brooke shares many of the same attributes as her Father.

She is smart, shrewd and wise for her young years.

It's a Western like no other I've ever watched and I have seen a lot.

A tragic ending, which we could all guess was coming.

However, with a saddle bag full of cash and a prosperous mercantile store back in Montana, maybe young Brooke has the right stuff to continue her story/

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)

Well worth the watch

[7/10 · 1 May 2023]

I saw this in the theater when it came out in 2008 with my firiend Cate Parks. We met up at a theater in Georgetown in Washington, DC.

I just now on 5/1/2023, watched it again.

I'm so impacted by this film. You must suspend your belief in reality if you're to really enjoy this movie.

Brad Pitt & Cate Blanchett are marvelous in this film. They blend so well together and their screen presence is fantastic.

I lived in pre-Katrina New Orleans for 2 years so it has special meaning for me from that sense as well.

There are so many great scenes and lines in the film but most special of all is the appearance of the Humming Bird a key moments in the story.

It's a love story.

No matter your age or your circumstance, true love transcends it all.

A Good Year (2006)

pay no attention to the mediocre reviews

[7/10 · 28 April 2023]

This is a delightful and entertaining film.

So sad that so many got it so wrong early on soon after the films release. Shame on you Rotten Tomatoes, you credibility suffers.

An Oscar winning Director, an Oscar winning actor, a talented supporting cast and a solid and believable story.

The mystery of the 'good wine' is so well hidden in the story and delightful turn when we learn the truth.

There is a nix mix of humor, wisdom and romance to make this one of the best romcom's in romcom land..

Max learns the most valuable lesson we can all learn in life.

What we love most.

Is there a better story than that?

The Night Agent (2023– )

Better than expected

[8/10 · 27 March 2023]

This is a 10 episode show that will keep you guessing right up until the very end.

The acting is quite good and the story line is solid. The Director allows enough opportunity for character development in the lead roles.

It's not a big budget show but enough to make it believable and entertaining.

It's not a re-hashed thriller like so much of what passes as entertainment today.

As the story progresses, there are flash backs that will help develop the lead characters better and help answer questions about their motivations.

Gabriel Brasso & Luciane Buchanan are exceptional in their roles.

At the end, Peter finds out the truth regarding his Father.

Moonfall (2022)

Moonfall - surprisingly good!

[7/10 · 22 September 2022]

As for all Sci Fi, it requires suspending belief, logic and reasoning and just enjoying the ride!

And in this case, you're taking a ride to the Moon and beyond...you are going inside the Moon!

A great cast, highlighted by the acting of Patrick Wilson and Halle Berry.

This is no doubt, Ms Berry's best role and her finest acting in my opinion.

The main plot line is strong, the special effects are amazing and the acting is exceptional!

As in most all stories, regardless if they are books or movies, the creator will borrow story lines from others. So is the case in the movie.

There are pieces and parts that will feel familiar but the blending and story telling is really good.

I especially like the story arch and the message of the movie.

It's all about Love!

1883 (2021–2022)

solid quality drama, not to be missed

[9/10 · 29 June 2022]

I've heard all the buzz about Yellowstone.

I had not seen a single episode.

Then I discovered 1883.

The hook was set from the first episode.

Taylor Sheridan deserves accolades for his imagination, writing and ability to tell a story.

The history of the old west is one that has many versions depending on who is telling it, this one is worthy.

I'm really glad I got to see it. I stretched it out so I would not finish it too soon. Each episode was enough to be enjoyed.

I sense it was realistic in the way it showed the difficulty for those who chose to take on the challenge. They were driven by their hope of a new life in the West.

There are so many great performances in this show. You kinda know what you are going to get with Sam Elliott, a proven actor with great credentials and a track record of award winning performances.

I was pleasantly surprised at the performances of Fairy Hill & Tim McGraw. Each of them were able to shine in their portrayal of the Dutton family.

The biggest surprise was Isabel May who portrays Elsa Dutton.

This is a very nuanced role and she was able to create a screen presence that was far beyond her young years.

I hope she wins all the awards she's eligible for.

Now that I have the prequel story to Yellowstone, I think I'm ready to start watching it.

Kudos to Taylor Sheridan for bringing to the screen a fantastic cast and the telling of a truly epic story of the old West.

24 Hours to Live (2017)

If you like Ethan, you'll love this movie!

[7/10 · 19 May 2021]

It's a tried & true formula of a sympathetic hero, a war veteran, a father & husband who has lost his wife & son.

He's lost his way but finds the vengeance & redemption he is seeking.

A former Marine who does contract wet work for a ruthless employer.

He finds his way when he meets Lin, an Interpol agent with a son who needs saving.

He's tagged for one last mission because he's the best, he says no but when the contract goes to $1Million pet day, it's hard to say no.

We learn about the bond between Marine's, Semper Fi.

We learn about the value of family & the loved shared between father & son.

We learn about the value of each minute when you have just 24 Hours to Live.

The Whole Truth (2016)

Keanu as a Lawyer?

[7/10 · 29 March 2021]

We've not seen Keanu Reeves as a lawyer since Devils Advocate.

It's a good look for him.

He's very credible, very sincere and very believable.

There are many elements of this movie to like.

Renee Zellwinger's first movie in six years.

I hardly recognized her appearance.

Her expressions and mannerisms are there and that's the clue.

It's also nice to see Jim Belushi in a good movie, it's been a while.

This is a very engaging movie, right from the beginning.

It's a strange twist when the son, Mike refuses to speak to his attorney.

He continues that position until he declares that he's going to take the stand.

There are no spoilers here but I encourage you to pay attention to Mike.

Also the flashbacks to the scene of the incident.

I like these types of movies because the truth is all there if you can see it.

It's not until the end that the pieces fall into place and the truth is revealed.

The cast here is solid.

Even the portrayal by Janelle.

The conflict between her and Loretta and is tense and telling at the same time.

Is it a woman's intuition?

This movie will keep you guessing right up until the end.

Togo (2019)

I wish I could give this movie an 11

[10/10 · 23 February 2021]

Have you ever loved a dog? I mean really loved one?

If you have you will love this movie.

It's a great story and well told. We learn that Togo is the runt of the litter and early on has a determination that is not to be denied.

This is a true story which makes the telling even better.

It's interesting to know that Togo & Balto were trained by Sepp. Because Balto runs the final lego of the Serum Race, he seems to have gotten all the notoriety. He ran 31 miles, while Togo ran 264 miles over some of the most treacherous terrain in Alaska.

I've always liked Willem Defoe as an actor. Whenever I watch the Grand Budapest Hotel, his character just makes me laugh.

In this film, he brings life to the character of Leohnard Seppala. It is truly an inspirational story. As I'm watching, I'm thinking of all the dogs that have been a part of my life. If you have been a dog owner, you will understand.

The best part, it's all true!

The children live because they receive the drum in time. All thanks to these brave dogs and their masters.

Kudos to Disney for brining this story to the screen.

I took my young Sons to Manhattan and Central park to see the statue of Balto. They should have one for Togo as well.

The First American (2016)

If there was no GW, there is no Republic

[9/10 · 21 February 2021]

I feel fortunate and blessed to be born in America. I've had an opportunity to travel the globe and see other countries and observe their values and their cultures. I've also been witness to those people there that have a curiosity about America and what makes it different.

I believe we can look to our founding Fathers and especially George Washington for the Genesis of that legacy

If we examine his actions, his deeds and his beliefs in the worthiness of the Cause, we can see what motivated this man and what gave him belief to pursue and act with the singleness of mind as a great Leader; a General and a great President.

I applaud Newt & Callista and their Foundation for bringing this message to the screen.

I'm a proud American, a History Major and a student of American history. I've seen many documentaries about our history. This by far, exceeds all others.

I particularly like the revelation about Billie Lee, his assistant, this I never knew.

In the telling of the story, it seems apparent that all the elements that created George Washington to become the man he was, were by design, those elements that created him to be the Leader that American needed at a great crossroads in our American History.

He is not to be forgotten!

The Last Kingdom (2015–2022)

Watchable and Worthy

[8/10 · 3 January 2021]

I didn't know any of the actors before I began to watch. Neither do i know the author of the books, nor the director.

I was attracted by the compelling historical narrative. Even then, there is a disclaimer that states that the characters and places are not all 100% accurate. That isn't all bad is it? Especially if we are talking about a period in history on or about 866.

The story is based on a British historical fiction television series based on Bernard Cornwell's The Saxon Stories.

The initial hook for me was learning that Uhtred, the main character was born and raised as a Saxon and followed the Anglican church precepts and was baptized into the Christian faith and belief system.

As the story unfolds, we have what we believe the classic 'good guys VS bad guys' Or, so we think as the behaviors of these key characters begin to become mixed and we begin to wonder who is who form a morality standpoint.

Is Uhtred a Christian, who behaves as a Pagan or is he a Pagan who behaves as a Christian. Is he a good guy or a not so good guy?

Or is he a little of both and acts based on situation ethics?

I really liked that Netflix has this as a 'Free' viewing opportunity. I also liked that there are 4 seasons and that a 5th season has been declared so we are whetted with the promise of more shows to watch.

The characters are compelling. My only complaint was the confusion around the character names. We have Athelhelm, Athelred, Athelwold, Athelflaed as well as Aleswith and Aelfric. Fortunately there are some with names like alfred, Edward and Erik to ease the brain crunch.

The filming locations in Hungary are compelling. The character development is done quite well . There is some alignment with place and location that fits well into the known history of the development of the Anglo & Saxon culture along with that of the Romans and early Britons.

All of this mixed in with a lot of sword action, romance, betrayal and the rags to riches to rags and then back to riches story line.

I will certainly be looking forward to season 5 which we learn has been delayed due to COVID.

It is indeed watchable and worthy.