mujali-48677 Reviews

The Beekeeper (2024)

Big Jase in Top Form

[8/10 · 11 March 2024]

I really enjoyed this. I knew what I'd be getting and it did exactly what was on the tin. Dodgy accent- tick, scumbag bad guys- tick, completely unrealistic but fun and satisfying action scenes-tick. Big Jase going about his life quietly not bothering anybody, until the bad guys hurt someone he likes and it's time for retribution, Statham style. I'm not sure what disappointed reviewers were expecting from a Jason Statham film, The Graduate? A deep dive in to the complexity of the human condition? Films don't always need to make us think about our existence or be a commentary on an increasingly more depressing society. This is top notch fun.

Saltburn (2023)

Totally Overhyped

[2/10 · 27 January 2024]

It started off okay, and then got weirder by the minute. Some of the shock value scenes added nothing to the story and were just depraved and awkward to watch. Most of the main characters were very unlikeable, although Richard E Grant and Rosamund Pike were fab. I also don't really agree with the message being portrayed through the working class character who finds himself in the world of the wealthy and privileged. He is so in awe of them that he turns in to a Machiavellian psychopathic. What an insult such a portrayal is; scholarship students have worked so hard to get their opportunity, nothing is handed to them, yet in this film they are made out to be predatory and unhinged.

The Killer (2023)

Okay At Best

[6/10 · 19 November 2023]

This wasn't a bad film, but it could have been so much better, especially as it started off so well.

The good aspects: it was engaging and succeeds in capturing your attention from the get go; I didn't want to switch off. It's also well-written, the dialogue/monologue is sharp, for the most part.

The not so good: the protagonist was a cold, despicable character who was hard to root for. I prefer films where you feel affection for the lead character and become emotionally invested in their journey. But there's none of that here as he's just an awful person. There's one scene where you think "he really didn't need to do that" and you don't understand the motivation or logic behind it, other than he is a psychopath. I also thought the ending was lame and unsatisfying. I felt the last quarter of the film was a rush job.

Fans of The Smiths will be in dreamland as the film somehow manages to get through not just one or two of their songs, but most of their greatest hits.

The Following (2013–2015)

How does this show have such a high rating?

[3/10 · 31 October 2023]

It started off promisingly, then swiftly went downhill after the first couple of episodes. Some of the plot-lines and scenarios are so ridiculous and unbelievable, the more the show goes on the more this becomes the case and after a while it gets really tedious to watch, it loses the shock and awe factor. How are the investigators this stupid and so prone to blunders? They get outwitted so easily and it happens so often after a while you know what's going to happen next. Infuriating! It gets so predictable after a while. I got almost to the end of the first season but couldn't take any more and wished I'd chosen something else instead.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (2022– )

Finally, the true modern heir to TOS and TNG has landed

[10/10 · 16 July 2023]

Well it's a prequel, so arguably not a heir, but let's not get caught up in semantics.

I enjoyed both Discovery and Picard, but they both missed that true Star Trek feel and the formula was in keeping with other tv show doing the rounds these days. Entirely subjective I know, but I love the Star Treks of old, where discovering weird, wonderful and downright bizarre worlds and peoples was all part of the craic. Strange New Worlds delivers; no convoluted plot lines, it's fun, well-written, with some great characters. And, may I add, wonderfully cast; Anson Mount IS Pike!

Really love love and love some more that they've gone for the classic intro and music, Captain Pike reads those legendary lines beautifully.

Creed III (2023)

Entertaining but lacks depth

[6/10 · 10 June 2023]

I did enjoy this movie, but in order to do so I had few expectations to begin with, made even fewer when I saw the trailer.

The good stuff: it's well-paced, the fight choreography is really well done, the actors in the lead roles-Jordan, Tessa, Jonathan Majors..all play their parts brilliantly.

The not so good stuff: I know the Rocky/Creed franchise can be far-fetched at the best of times, but even for this universe the boundaries of reality are tested at times. All of the boxing characters are supposedly heavyweights but there's one guy, Chavez, who's barely taller than his mother and could be no more than a super-welterweight. At least Jordan and Jonathan Majors, with some clever camera work, could pass for cruiserweight/light heavy. Also, how on gods green Earth could an aging man who has been locked up and hasn't ever boxed a professional fight knock out the heavyweight champion of the world in his first fight? Who thought this was a viable plot?

Anyhow despite this, the performances of the actors make up for the absurd plot lines they work with, culminating in what's an enjoyable movie. It does lack the soul and grit of a Rocky movie, it's heavily commercialised with product/sponsorship drops throughout, cameos from famous faces etc.. but that grit disappeared from the Rocky franchise a long time ago, so in this sense it is very much a film of modern times.

Tulsa King (2022– )

Great Entertainment!

[10/10 · 12 April 2023]

I love this show! Granted, Sly Stallone isn't Al Pacino, but what he lacks in acting skills he makes up for with effort, style and heart, and there's no denying he has presence. I am so happy to see him in a series like this, he's tailor made for it! The characters are great, especially Bodhi! This show is far-fetched at times, but it's also well-written and brilliantly paced, drama that packs an emotional punch but there is also so much humour, not silly gags, but witty one-liners that are well timed. That's something really lacking in so many modern shows, which try so hard to be funny but fall short so often. If you liked Lilyhammer, you'll love this.

Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)

Fantastic sequel, the magic is still there

[10/10 · 19 December 2022]

Like many, I went in to this with high expectations, given how wonderful the first movie was and that the bar had been set pretty high. I'll keep it short and sweet to avoid giving any sort of spoiler, but in my opinion it was breathtaking. The storyline, the scenery/CGI, the characters (both old and new) everything gelled. The themes are so pertinent and relevant to our current world issues/challenges, perhaps that's why it packs the emotional punch that it does. I'm so glad that they took their time with this, it just shows how amazing cinema can be if you don't rush it, so much stuff is just rushed through now so that studios can cash in. Another testament to how good this movie is is that my wife didn't glance at her phone once for the whole three hours.

Ancient Apocalypse (2022)

Enjoyable and Interesting Series

[10/10 · 30 November 2022]

I watched this show after reading a review of it from The Guardian who headlined their piece on it as ''the most dangerous show on Netflix.' That sounds preposterous to me but it's not as if they would have any bias at all is it?! I found it quite interesting. Graham Hancock is not claiming to have all the answers, but he does suggest possibilities, and I think this notion that we have history wrapped up in a tidy little linear 'everything fits' narrative is so problematic. We know comparatively nothing, and so much of what is accepted as known is theory. What's wrong with questioning one theory with another?! Why does everything have to be so rigid? Modern academia is actually fairly insecure, it sneers at and belittles anyone who dares to even attempt to question them. They have no logical answer for so many discoveries which go against the official narrative, so they bend it or try to explain it away with stuff that makes no sense at all. Or they'll simply say "we don't know the answer for this, but it's definitely not that!' How do you know this?! Some of the explanations they'll come up with just so that it fits the paradigm is laughable. That's not the search for truth, but rather the preservation of paycheck. Viva Graham Hancock.

Muhammad Ali (2021)

Wow

[10/10 · 19 August 2022]

This gripped me from start to finish. Superbly done. A compelling documentary on a fascinating man who lived through such a turbulent time and held his head high. His boxing chapter alone is the stuff of legend. A story so good that if it was movie you'd think it far-fetched. A man not without flaws but with a beautiful heart, who evolved. So inherently human, to make mistakes but to transcend them. I wish he had quit after the Foreman fight, it was so sad to see him with his speech slurred as a walking punchbag. The hangers on have were parasites. But even with the adversity of Parkinson's disease, he fought on and had his good days. Rest in peace Champ the world could do with another like you.

Prizefighter: The Life of Jem Belcher (2022)

Poor

[2/10 · 23 July 2022]

I was looking forward to this film as I am a fan of boxing history and British history in general. In addition, I love the big fella Russell Crowe and it was great to see Jodhi May back on screen again as she is immensely talented and the last time I saw her was 1990 in the Last of the Mohicans. Unfortunately though, I should have gone in expecting disappointment, because this movie really fell short of the mark in pretty much every way. It felt inauthentic, from the dialogue (basic, at times cringe, I very much doubt that Ray Winstone's brand of Cockney-isms would have been in use then) to the stereotypical generic upper class toff villain. Also, how can people living in the early 1800s have such good skincare? These moans aside, the film felt rushed, there was hardly any middle, and as a result there was no real bridge between beginning and ending, leaving very little character development/viewer engagement and the whole thing utterly disjointed. You can't make a grand stand finish work if there is no momentum to precede it.

White Hot: The Rise & Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch (2022)

I'm not sure what the fuss is about

[1/10 · 21 April 2022]

So it turns out that A&F used sexuality and vanity to promote their brand. Wow, how shocking (not), so has the majority of the fashion industry and I'm not entirely sure how people can be so offended by it. Some of the people interviewed for this doc should have had their job title listed as "professional offence taker" It seems to me that for them there always has to be something to be upset about, and if there isn't, they'll find something. I mean, where is the genuine cause for offence? They didn't defraud anyone, act with genuine malice or anything else that would have made for an important and worthy investigation. Exclusivity? Yes exclusively is what every fashion brand tries to give the impression of, are you seriously offended by that? And race? What about Fubu, a brand who are explicitly defined by race? Not that I am offended by them, but the hypocrisy in some quarters is laughable. This is a shockingly poor documentary that tries to catch the mood of the moment and capitalise on outrage culture, but it has very little (If anything at all) to go on and ultimately is a waste of resources. The money and time spent on this could have been directed towards real enquiry about something meaningful, like open peoples eyes to social issues etc. What a waste.

Slow Horses (2022– )

Very enjoyable

[10/10 · 16 April 2022]

I am really enjoying this so far. Spooks thrillers have been done plenty of times before and the sign of a good one is whether you want to get stuck in to the next episode straight away, which I did. A bit far-fetched at times, but this is par for the course, it's an entertainment series, not a documentary so that's fine by me. Gary Oldman and Kristin Scott Thomas are brilliant from the get-go, as you'd expect.

The Tinder Swindler (2022)

Brilliant (and incredibly enraging!) documentary!

[10/10 · 5 February 2022]

Let me be clear, I thought the women in this documentary are amazing for the strength and resolve they have shown in how they fought back against a remorseless sociopath with no conscience or morals. I did think that it cast a light upon contemporary society's fascination with wealth and materialism though, as well as the obvious perils that lurk beneath the deceptive, all for show Instagram pictures. I mean, if someone's social media profile consists entirely of them making vain poses with sports cars clad only in designer gear, what sort of person is that, really? What are that persons values? Is it someone who cares about others, who wants to make a difference to the world and spread love, who values kindness and compassion, the things that really matter... or is that person a complete and utter narcissist? This is in no way any critique of the victims, I wish them all the best and they are sweet human beings, but I sincerely hope for the day that nobody looks upon Instagram have-it-alls with a feeling of longing, as if something is lacking in their own lives, because we don't need to amass huge material success to be happy. Just remember folks, if it says it's a dog, but it quacks like a duck, walks like a duck and smells like a duck, it's a duck.

Ted Lasso (2020–2023)

A warm, endearing, lovely show!

[10/10 · 20 January 2022]

I loved this show so much I binge-watched it in 3 days, which isn't really top-speed binging but it is for me! I love the premise, it works so well and allows for so much humour and silliness. Not all the jokes are great, but many are, and the characters are unique and compliment each other so well. Ted's quips are brilliant. Another quality about this show is it's inherent cheeriness and feel-good tones, that is so needed at a time when everyone needed some cheering up. And bravo to the show for exploring mental health issues and doing so in a way which is inspiring and makes people feel like they are not alone.

Schindler's List (1993)

Epic, Masterful Film-making

[10/10 · 14 January 2022]

This is a really tough watch, the subject matter is heartbreaking and makes you wonder how man can be so cruel to man. The story is so well-told and cinematography so brilliant that you are gripped all the way through for over 3 hours. I don't think I could watch this film again, it's too emotionally draining. But I think everyone needs to watch it once. I hope humanity learns from the past and that we never witness such evils ever again.

This Is Joan Collins (2022 TV Special)

Really good

[10/10 · 14 January 2022]

I must admit I only knew Joan Collins superficially before watching this, but I am glad I did watch it as her story was really well told whilst at the same time giving you a flavour of the eras she has lived through. I was aghast at the sleaziness and lack of morals that was rife amongst the film stars and moviehouse bosses of the golden age of Hollywood. I never thought I'd find Joan Collins inspirational, but she truly is! There is something inherently likeable about her, good-natured mischief, eyes that sparkle with life and joy. I think that's a wonderful way to be, to live life to the fullest. To think that her career started in the early 1950s is pretty amazing to be honest.

Wrath of Man (2021)

Unoriginal but enjoyable nonetheless

[7/10 · 8 January 2022]

I enjoyed this movie and my eyes were glued to the screen from the get go. It is far from Guy Ritchie's best work, but Guy doesn't have to be anywhere near his best to be considerably better than most of the offerings in the action genre at present. Jason Statham is, well, good old Jason Statham and did everything expected of him. I for one am glad of it, because in a world in which unpredictability is the flavour of the moment, there's a certain degree of comfort in familiarity. Also, Scott Eastwood was brilliant! Definitely shades of the old man!

Curse of the Chippendales (2021)

A great watch!

[8/10 · 28 December 2021]

I really enjoyed this documentary series, perhaps because I went in blind and wasn't expecting such a rollercoaster story. You'll watch this and think that truth really is stranger than fiction. The story is a microcosm of the 80s in a way; Rise and fall, underpinned by vanity and greed, sprinkled with a bit chaos. At the same time though the former Chippendales featured come across quite likeable now, it must be a surreal experience for them seeing that archive footage from over 30 years ago. Also please note there is so much 80s in this that you fear the nightclub sweat might permeate through the tv and in to your living room.

The Beatles: Get Back (2021)

Really good

[10/10 · 7 December 2021]

A few people thought this documentary long-winded and boring. I think this is because we have become accustomed to crash bang wallop television and have a tendency these days to get bored easily. For me, to go through a 50 year time warp and see one of the best bands in history jamming together, being themselves and going through their creative process is a privilege. To see their personalities, their flaws and their talents etc.. Although my throat was croaky from the amount of chain smoking going on. I loved the moment Paul discovers Get Back, I grabbed my guitar and joined in. It's sad none of the Beatles went to Mals funeral.

The Guilty (2021)

Awful

[1/10 · 23 October 2021]

Jake Gyllenhaal stars as the worlds most unprofessional, angriest and worst 911 responder in this stinker of a movie from the usually top-notch Antoine Fuqua. All aspects of this film are below-par and some are downright awful. If you like misery and are a glass permanently half-empty sort of person, then this might be for you. Wish I had trusted the bad reviews rather than wasted my time. The only redeeming quality of this movie was that it provided employment to those in the film sector during the pandemic.

Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed (2021)

Heartbreaking

[10/10 · 11 September 2021]

I couldn't watch till the end because as I was nearing being physically sick as the story of the Kowalski's abhorrent greed and lack of any sort of moral compass was revealed. Bob Ross was a gentle, good-hearted soul who uplifted people. It's sad that it's always these sort of human beings who are the most vulnerable to being exploited by parasites and self-interested individuals who come in the guise of friends or associates. They see the good in people and are naturally trusting. The Kowalskis have bled him dry, even after his death. No word for it other than tragic. However I do believe in karmic justice and what goes around comes around. They know what they have done is utterly wrong, and the Universe knows it too. God rest your soul Bob.

Sicario (2015)

Over-rated

[3/10 · 22 August 2021]

I've read some of the reviews here from the wannabe Eberts waxing lyrical about cinematic techniques, lighting blah blah blah..And with the high overall rating I gave this movie a go.. but was disappointed to be honest. It's depressing from start to finish and Emily Blunt's character, far from being a meaningful protagonist, is really annoying and contributes nothing. I'm not surprised that the critics fell over themselves to sing the praises of this movie, as it is 2 hours of misery that they will no doubt love. If you are like me and believe in the power of cinema to uplift and inspire, avoid this.

A Man Called Ove (2015)

Poignant and Heartwarming

[8/10 · 28 June 2021]

I really enjoy watching movies from other cultures, it gives a glimpse in to how others live, their norms and sense of humour etc.. as well as our shared values as human beings. This was a good one, the story and character development is well-paced, it's quite an emotional journey in which you start to feel for the main character. There's no amazing special effects, just a good, solid, drama with some sad moments as well as happy.

Gods of Egypt (2016)

3 stars are for the costumes

[3/10 · 28 June 2021]

Awesome costumes, great CGI. Everything else is terrible. From the script to the plot, the acting, just dross. Set as a mean-spirited, burly Glaswegian is quite amusing, I was half expecting him to open up a six-pack of Tennants any minute. Some of the other Gods look and act like they've come from the set of Vikings. I mean they could have attempted a slight bit of realism in the casting process, especially when they went to so much effort in the costumes and scenery, which were really cool. The acting is cringe, not from one particular person, but all of them, combining to put on a cringe masterclass and an instantly forgettable movie.