Garbagemaster Reviews

They Come to America (2012)

A Hard Look At The Costs Of Illegal Immigration

[10/10 · 6 October 2012]

This is the most even-handed treatment of this controversial subject I've yet seen. Lynch, the director, shows the reality and consequences of illegal immigration from every angle. The un-willingness of our "leaders" to deal with the issue, the law enforcement standpoint, the costs to our social services and schools, economic costs, national security, and finally, the brutal human cost on the immigrants themselves. Regardless of your politics, every American needs to see this film. Both political parties are responsible for this issue, and Lynch is good about exposing the political agendas of both sides. The point of this film is to raise awareness. It is unafraid, and unflinching in revealing the magnitude and consequences of decades of uncontrolled borders.

Outland (1981)

A Forgotten Gem

[9/10 · 29 June 2012]

After watching "Outland" again after many years, it's striking to me how well it holds up thirty years later. Released at a time when a glut of poor sci-fi was being cranked out to capitalize on the success of the Star Wars franchise, this gem was sadly lost in the clutter. Sean Connery is excellent in his role as the brooding, decent man looking for a reckoning, Marshal O'Niel. Peter Boyle is perfect as the slimy, yet pragmatic corrupt station manager. The special effects are well done, and director Hyams uses them and the realistic sets to great effect, creating that tense, gritty, dark feeling. If you are a Connery fan, or just enjoy a good, tense thriller, this is a must see. Hopefully, someday this forgotten gem will get the credit it deserves.

Ancient Aliens (2009– )

Compelling and Enjoyable

[8/10 · 26 February 2012]

I'm not going to bore you with a synopsis of my personal beliefs here, nor pick apart the assertions made by the show's creators and contributors. Ancient Aliens is equal parts compelling and laughable. Both thought-provoking and ludicrous. Always, however, entertaining. The show is well put together, and moves along well. Did E.T. visit our ancient ancestors? Did they influence our modern religions? Was alien technology used to help the ancients build huge megalithic structures? The show's "experts" say yes, and attempt to put forward evidence to back up their claims. Yes, it is slanted in one direction. I'm being more charitable than other reviewers here though. After all, the title is "Ancient Aliens". What else would you expect? In any case, if you're a critical thinker who also doesn't mind stretching credulity for the sake of good entertainment, you'll enjoy this. For every time I scoffed, there have also been parts that really blew my mind. Give it a try.