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treighnor
Reviews
A Haunting in Venice (2023)
Enjoyed it enough to see it twice
Is this a supernatural horror film or murder mystery? A little of the first, and primarily the second. Set in the beautiful city of Venice, this film explores the dark side in a pallazzo with a dark history and a need of restoration. The setting is perfect for the subject matter, the cast was absolutely outstanding and played their parts perfectly. While I usually have murder mysteries figured out.in the first third of a book or movie, this one had an ending that truly surprised me. After seeing the movie and ending the first night, I had to go back for a second viewing the next night to see what subtle hints I missed. Even a second time I was not bored and appreciated the acting all the more. There truly was no weak link in the character portrayals. I am astounded by those who gave the movie low marks. How can anyone not like the use of Venice over a soundstage or AI? The cinematography was perfect for the set and storyline, appropriately dark. The assortment of characters was very Agatha Christie. The actors did an amazing job bringing them to life. The plot, loosely based on one of her novels, was rewritten very well to make something more film adaptable. I suppose expectation plays a very big role in reception. If you are expecting horror like The Exorcist, you will be disappointed. The suspense is there. The horror is perfectly appropriate for the 1940s time period in which the story is set. The whodunit keeps you wondering, firstly was the first death suicide or murder? Then secondly, if murder, what are the details, and thirdly, why are people in the house dying now? This was far better than Barbie, which got undeserved good reviews.
Summer of the Monkeys (1998)
a great family movie
I watched this with another adult and nine children. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the movie. The monkeys were very entertaining and there were plenty of laughs. However, the movie is mainly quite serious. It deals with many issues common to adolescents such as peer relationships, bullies, sibling relationships, conflict with parents, role in the family, accepting responsibility, sharing, caring,and maturing. It also deals with seeing things from another's point of view. it is pertinent to children and bittersweet nostalgic for adults.
The story line was original, the acting very good, the cinematography outstanding and the costuming was authentic. I would give this movie very high marks and recommend it to both adults and children. There should be more movies of this quality and thoughtfulness generated for the enjoyment of families and movie buffs.