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Reviews
The Creator (2023)
Refreshing point of view
Sure, this isn't the best film ever and it might even have been better if they hadn't tried to cramp this much action, sci-fy, and drama into one movie, but overall I was positively surprised.
For one, it's starts out with a very mainstream 'America is gonna save the world from all evil' storyline, but down the line that shifts. The antagonist becomes the protagonist. And for once, it's actually the Asians who seem to know what they're doing, while the Americans come across as arrogant and narrow minded agressors. (Hmmm...wonder why?) To me, a long anticipated change of entrenched role patterns.
Also, it gives very inhuman looking robots a heart and soul (figuratively speaking). It took me a while to get used to this, as usually Hollywood tends to make sure likable characters have a sweet face and the bad guys look as inhuman as possible.
The struggle and the conflict of loyalty the main character faces is therefore very understandable.
All in all, not the best movie ever, but I recommend watching it nonetheless. You might be surprised!
Snowpiercer (2013)
Huh? But really...huh?
Intriguing concept so I started watching with anticipation. But almost from the start it felt like I just stepped into a film right after intermission and I missed the first half. No time at all to get to know the characters, no time at all to understand how these people have been living on this train for so long, no time at all to grasp the complex structure of social layers and authority. Just straight into complete chaos and mayhem. Yes, it is somewhat thrilling and intriguing, and yes I get the whole 'people are evil and will always be dividing everyone into classes instead of peacefully living as one' message. But watching this movie, most of all it made me raise my eyebrows and think: "What the f! This is just stupid!" Forget about all the obvious flaws that make the story fall apart, just the fact that it's impossible to get emotionally involved with any of te characters makes this movie hard to watch. Seems like the director thought: "Screw the audience, I'm making this thing for ME! They'll figure it out along the way." Which you do, (it's not a very complex story, really) but it makes it extra hard to really get into the story. Also the ending seems kind of pointless, which probably again will have some kind of deeply philosophical meaning, but it just really blows. All I could think when the credits started rolling down the screen was: HUH?!?!
Really disappointed by this. Could have been great; now it's all just unrealistic, unrelatable and strange.
Your Place or Mine (2023)
It just doesn't make you feel anything
As rom-coms and chick flicks go, this one just doesn't really cut it. It has all the right ingredients to make a great movie (flaky hippy L. A. single mom, cold hearted handsome rich businessman, switch lives for a week, discover new things about themselves and each other, then meet in the middle), but the end result is just very...mèh. Maybe it's because the main characters don't actually interact throughout the movie up until the final minutes and then it's just not believable. Also the supporting characters are strangely annoying and just seem to be there so the main characters have someone to vent there thoughts to so they don't have to talk out loud to themselves. The storyline is chaotic and fails to support the whole romantic message the makers of this movie were probably trying to send out. I think both Reese Witherspoon and Ashton Kutcher have the ability to be great but only if they have a fantastic script and storyline. This flick didn't. Pretty disappointing.
Dark Places, Deadly Illusions (2021)
So, so, so bad!!
Oh my god, what did I just spend the last two hours on?!?! I was reeled in by the names of Kristin Davis and Dermot Mulroney. Fair enough, they are not known for their Oscar-winning performances, but still you suspect it can't be half bad cause no self respecting actor would want to link their good name to some worthless piece of movie toilet paper. I was wrong.
Where Kristin Davies' role as a hysterical uptight flower pattern wearing rich housewife is very funny in SatC, it was just plain agony in this god awful flick. Furthermore, the storyline is a mess, the characters are completely unbelievable and the 'erotic' scenes were just cringe as f. As you come towards the end of the movie you just start wondering if the whole production team was on acid or something because it just loses all grip to reality.
I wish their was a law against movies like this. Or at least a way to get compensated for hours lost.
If you value your precious time, skip this disaster and go do something worthwhile.
The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window (2022)
Crazy. Just completely crazy.
No spoiler warnings necessary for this review but another warning is in order. Remind yourself every 20 minutes or so what you are actually watching: a dark comedy! Based on the thriller 'The girl on the train'.
It's funny, sort of, but not really funny enough so you easily forget. And the minute you forget, the whole thing is just really insane! Especially the plot (which I won't spoil for you) is just so completely deranged, you're brain feels like it's melting. Luckily, as soon as you remember you are actually watching a comedy it becomes hysterically funny. Probably you have to watch all 8 episodes again for the second time to really appreciate it.
Shutter Island (2010)
You start questioning your own mind
In the beginning this film seems a bit like some boring '1940's gangster' movie. I had trouble getting into the story. But along the way, stuff keeps getting more and more strange and you start to suspect things aren't as black and white as the seems in the beginning. Disturbing images run through the story without apparent reason. In the last scenes you start questioning your own sanity and after the last lines you've just sitting there baffled. The acting skills are somewhat thin now and then and I think the story is sometimes unnecessarily overly complex, but over all you get more then two hours of skincrawling craziness. Enjoy!
Senior Year (2022)
OMG, it's like totally awesome! 😂
This is just a classic teenage flick with every single cliché ingredient it needs. But don't be fooled, it's actually way more relevant then it seems. It shows how times have changed for today's teenagers both in a good and in a bad way. Also great that both adults and teens can relate to this film. Rebel Wilson is obviously funny again but gives a surprising good performance in the more serious and emotional scenes. (Yes, I teared up just a little at some point.) Furthermore it's just a bubbly feelgood movie bursting with hilarious cliches about teens now and 20 years ago. Definitely a must-see!
Oh, and without spoiling it, let me just say there is a great cameo by the Queen of Teen...
Me Before You (2016)
This is what love looks like.
The story, the actors, the decor...it's all good. The perfect build up from two people hating each other, then slowly melting and at last turning out to be the love of each others lives, makes the end even more heartbreaking. Still, this is one of my favourite romance films. I love how relatable Emilia Clarke is (almost unbelievable she also acts as Daenerys Targaryan in G. O. T) in her role of the sweet, clumsy but determined Lou. This film will make you laugh, cry and wish you could only make everything right for them. Just beautiful.
Twilight (2008)
Though weak it's still strangely satisfying
Yes, this is very much a teen romance movie. Yes, it's filled with gringy flaws and completely unbelievable twists. And yes, Kristen Stuarts acting is almost unbearable to watch...(I mean, what the hell is going on with her face twitching and looking tormented all the time?!)
But still it's a movie that reflects the attraction people have always had with the sensual and seductive side of the vampire myth. And the tension between Bella and Edward is also satisfying to watch. So if you can relax and just accept all the awkwardness, you can definitely enjoy this film (and the sequels as well).
Cruella (2021)
Genius! Just genius!
The colors, the music, the outfits and the cinematography; it is beautiful, tasteful and sexy. Emma Stone and Emma Thompson are not the obvious choice for the parts but turn out to be perfect for them. Even if you don't like the story or fear it is just another 101 Dalmatians spin-off, don't worry. You will still enjoy the visual brilliance of this production. This film will make every fashion designer and fashion lover weep with admiration.
The Adam Project (2022)
Funniest nerd sci-fi ever!
Without Ryan Reynolds this film would probably be crap, but with his hilarious facial expressions and quick jokes, this film will make you laugh continuously while also keeping you entertained with Back to the future-like sci-fi vibes. Don't expect to much out of the story. Just enjoy.
West Side Story (2021)
Surprisingly fantastic
The original was unique in its kind and a remake seemed both unnecessary and easily disappointing. But actually (and I hate to say it) I liked it better then the original. The atmosphere, the dancing, the emotions; it al seemed a bit more believable and intense. But it hasn't lost its quirkiness and sentimental romantic air. The remake has stayed really close to the original story (they even filmed it in 60's techni-color, I think) and only strays from it when there is an opportunity to make it better. The 2021 WSS may become a classic!
Game of Thrones (2011)
Hands down the best series ever
The perfect combination of action, fantasy, history, politics, intrige, blood, sex and sentiment. Fantastic cast, beautiful decor and wardrobe, smart dialogues and thrilling storylines. G. O. T. Just has everything you ever wanted in a series rolled up into 7 seasons of pure entertainment. Have watched it 3 times now and still some episodes get me on the edge of my seat. Special acknowledgement to Peter Dinklage who, in my opinion, gives his character such depth and subtle layers it is hard to imagine he is actually on a set surrounded by cameras and crew. Amazing!
Antebellum (2020)
Could have been great, but it's no more then okay.
I read a raving review about this so decided to ignore the 'horror'-label (I don't watch horror movies because I am a major pussie) and give it a shot. This film is not a horror movie at all (lucky for me) and only remotely classifies as a thriller. The topic certainly is scary a hell but the execution just fails to see it through. The whole thing doesn't fulfill it's potential. The story set-up is unlogical and makes it hard to get a feeling of identification with the main character. Other characters aren't explained (and often then die) leaving you feeling like: huh? Who was this character?
All in all: great concept but if you want to watch a horror movie this one will leave you very dissatisfied and if you want to watch a very grisly but powerful movie about the horrors of slavery I would recommend '12 years a slave' or 'Jango Unchained'.
Never Been Kissed (1999)
Within the genre, this one's on the 'failed'-side of the scale.
I wasn't a big fan of Drew Barrymore to begin with, but this flick just highlighted every single thing I dislike about her. The story itself has a lot of potential but it just doesn't work at all. Gringed throughout the entire movie! Painful, awkward and pretty much a waste of time to watch. A remake with a new script and different cast might do the trick.
Soul (2020)
An unexpected treasure!
While usually Disney Pixar makes sure their movies get maximum exposure, for some reason this one didn't reach me before. So I just put it on randomly after dinner not expecting anything much. Imagine my surprise when 'Soul' turned out to be this extremely moving, beautiful, creative, emotionally mature and inspiring film! It beautifully touches every single aspect of 'the meaning of life' and 'mindful living' you can imagine. What a gem!!!
Emily in Paris (2020)
Stop grabbing the wine glasses like that!!!!
The series is sort of entertaining and has a funny moment here and there but the bubbly attitude of Emily gets downright annoying after three episodes. Also the stereotyping of everything French is quite offensive (and I'm not even French!) But most of all I HATE the way all the characters grab their wine glasses at the chalice (the top) while most French (or other European wine-lover) would slap you across the face for doing that. Proper way to drink wine (at least chilled white wine) is holding it by the stem. This 'faux pas' is so annoyingly constant throughout every single episode and I cringe every time I see it. I even think it's purposely directed this way cause I bet the French actors must have commented on it.
Jagten (2012)
Extremely disturbing and sad
One of the most disturbing films I have ever seen. Horrible and sad how friends can turn into predators overnight. This is not a movie you want to watch if you're already in a depressed mood, but definitely a movie you should watch at some point, just to stay aware of the fact that things aren't always what they seem and you should be careful in thinking you always know what is true and what isn't.
In Time (2011)
Mèh...but what a great concept!
A movie filled with an insane amount of good looking people (Alex Pettyfer..OMG!!! Reason enough to keep watching!) but a very thin storyline and very mediocre acting. Still, the concept of the story is so good you actually keep interested on watching how people manage, steal, borrow, invest, gamble and fight for time in stead of money.
The Upside (2017)
Better then I expected
Although Intouchable is more subtile and refined, The Upside is not at all bad. Very American but still good acting and of course you can't go wrong with a great story like this.
Wonder (2017)
You need to watch this movie.
I'm not going to comment on the sugary sweet storyline or the sometimes slightly corny dialogue. Because it doesn't matter. This film is all about the message. And it's a message that everybody needs to hear: Being a remarkable person is not about the way you look, about how cool or rich you are. It's about being a remarkable friend, to be brave and stand up to the world even when you feel completely lonely and small. To be honest, true and without prejudice.
So it's not even Augie who proves this but most of all the kids who are willing to take a chance on someone that doesn't fit the standard. Who wants to be standard anyway. ;-p
Brittany Runs a Marathon (2019)
Funny and inspiring.
It's not often a movie is able to combine comedy and a truely inspiring message so well balanced. The character of Brittany is actually very versatile and layered making her someone you can really relate to. Her journey from being this cynical and basically depressed 'nobody' to becoming a strong and loving young woman is beautiful and inspiring to watch. Transformation movies are usually fun to watch but most of the time don't surpass a montage of make-over scenes. This one feels like you're really going through all the ups and downs together with the main character. Made me laugh and cry and at the end made me feel like going out for a run just to be proud of myself.
Bird Box (2018)
Everything a thriller needs
One of my favourite thrillers of the past couple of years. It's smart, unexpected and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I've watched it several times now and it still gets my heartbeat going up a bit.
The Secret Garden (2020)
If you've read the book, DON'T watch this film!!!
I am in love with the book and was so happy when I saw a new film had been made. Thought that modern technology would only add to the magic of this wonderful story. What a disappointment! The film only scratches the original script, taking out everything that makes the story so special and leaving it shallow and dull. Even the great Colin Firth and Julie Walters didn't have their usual sparkle. It is a mystery to me why someone would choose to do a re-make and then violating it in such a manner. I wish I could un-see this film.
Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga (2020)
Hilarious and heartwarming comedy
Lars and Sigrid live in a small town in Iceland. Ever since they were kids they wanted nothing but to be stars and sing in the EuroVision Songfestival. By a stroke of luck (and some intervention of elves) they manage to get in but the world of showbiz is a lot harder then they expected.
Everyone who knows the EuroVision Songfestival will recognise the ridiculous outfits, manic performances and overall crazy content of this yearly extravaganza. The film did a great job in capturing this in a parody but also showing the little things that still make the ESF worth wild. It's rapped up in a story about love, friendship, trust and overcoming everything life throws at you because you just need to reach your potential. Rachel McAdams and Will Farell do a fantastic job in portraying two sweet and innocent people with big dreams and big hearts trying to maintain their integrity in a world determined to take them down. A film to fall in love with!