comedy_claire2001 Reviews

Haunted Mansion (2023)

The Haunted Mansion is Disney's Fantastic Four Syndrome

[6/10 · 28 August 2023]

I remain completely convinced that there is a fantastic film rooted within the fictional story of the Haunted Mansion. However, a complete lack of imagination once again forces us down a lazy route in which a story is hap-hazarsly built around the most popular features of the attraction. Constance? Yes, just create a scene where they find an attic. Hitchhiking Ghosts? They can just pop up outside. The Paintings? Easy - there are walls everywhere. Just throw in some cheap gags, an unnecessary soppy plot and the typical "Ha, Ghosts aren't real!" skeptic and bingo! You've got yourself a Haunted Mansion film!

The only entertainment comes from spotting elements of the attractions in the background, and it's good to see the infamous Hat Box Ghost getting some much deserved recognition. But it's all so predictable.

It seems that the opportunity to showcase the attractions' amazing backstories has once again been missed. Rather than plonking a random family in the Mansion with the inevitable task of "helping the Ghosts find peace", wouldn't it be great to understand how it all got there in the first place?! I accept that we do get a convenient backstory for Crump, Leota and - to an extent - Gracey ... but wouldn't it be more interesting to understand how it all came together? Chuck in elements of Phantom Manor and you're well away - (the links to Thunder Mesa (Big Thunder Mountain) are creative genius)! Where did Constance come from? Who are The Hitchikers? If the Ghost Host is Gracey ... this changes the character completely!

The issue here is the screenwriters basing a story around the features of the attraction as opposed to the world in which the attraction is based. This is why Pirates was so popular. It wasn't just a bunch of random pirates coming across a skeleton steering a ship, or a guy auctioning off townswomen, or a woman shouting at her husband ("Carlos!") - it was a story based in the swashbuckling and rum-guzzling world that the attraction is a part of.

Sadly, and pardon the pun, I feel like this is the final nail in the coffin for our Haunted Mansion adventures. If only Mr Del Toro had been able to get his foot in the door first; I think that would have been truly magnificent.

Disenchanted (2022)

Magical and Enjoyable Sequal

[8/10 · 20 November 2022]

As 2022 seems to be the year of sequels I wasn't really holding out much hope for this one (my Disney spirits well and truly dampened by the mess that was Hocus Pocus 2) - so imagine my surprise when I actually found myself completely immersed in the lands of Andalasia and Monroeville!

The concept of "happy ever after" and the impossibility of achieving it in the "real world" really hit home - I'm sure after the last couple of years this is a feeling that a lot of people can relate to. Watching Amy Adams as the - quite literally - disenchanted Giselle is absolutely heartbreaking; and it sets up an Act I ending perfectly. The pacing of the film really steps up in Act II - and, once again, Amy Adams' is able to showcase her amazing versatility shifting from innocent princess to dastardly, wicked stepmother in an instant. Up until this point, my only main criticism was that the songs weren't anywhere near as catchy or essential to the plot as they were in "Enchanted" ... but I was firmly put back in my box when Idina Menzel belted out "Love Power" - easily the best song in the film. The plot was excellent, acting superb, and the head-nods and winks to Classic Disney ever present. Well done, Mr Shankman, for this incredible sequel.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)

Great story fantastic tribute, but pacing is an issue

[7/10 · 19 November 2022]

As a film which aims to honour Chadwick Boseman's legacy it ticks all of the boxes. This is a story of grief, vengeance and forgiveness - with wonderful performances from its strong female cast. However, pacing is a real issue, and the film drags unnecessarily. Every time there is a build up to what should be a typical MCU action scene the mood shifts downwards with misplaced and superfluous dialogue. I've been to see this film twice already to see if the pacing really was an issue, or whether my expectations were too high - but I've concluded that Act III really is a chore to get through..It was always going to be a difficult story to tell, but I think if some of the scenes were rearranged and dialogue cut to really build up to the climax of the film we'd be seeing one of the absolute best films in the MCU.

Ms. Marvel (2022)

Strong Start, Slow Decline

[5/10 · 13 July 2022]

I waited until the end of the series before reviewing Ms Marvel. I felt that episode one started strongly and established the main characters well. I instantly liked Kamala Khan and was a fan of the Marvel-esque- although slightly immature humour - that was employed. However, as each episode progressed, I felt that they'd introduced far too many characters - some of which, in hindsight, were completely unnecessary. By having both the Clandestines and Damage Control as the villains both impacts were completely diluted, and at the end of the series I was left thinking that if the Clandestines had been removed completely the beginning and end of the series would have been exactly the same. It felt to me that the writers had established a good character, a good family set up, but then struggled to determine who the main villain should be. As each episode progressed I became less interested in the storyline, and that's a shame given the strength of the series that Marvel have produced since it began with WandaVision. I can't see that there will be any Emmy nominations for Ms Marvel. I'm wondering whether a lesson learned for Marvel / Disney is that introducing a new character via a TV series is not the way forward. It felt we had to endure 6 episodes just to understand the beginning of the next Captain Marvel film. I'm disappointed that I didn't enjoy the series as much as I wanted to. I didn't hate it but I didn't love it either, and as I've loved pretty much everything Marvel has produced since Captain America: The First Avenger this really does stick out as a weak link. For me it was the writing and storyline that let the series down. I am hopeful that The Marvel's film does more justice to the character of Kamala Khan.

Hard Cell (2022)

Stick With It

[10/10 · 16 April 2022]

Don't assume you know what this series is about from the first two episodes and then "tap out". This is brilliant storytelling from Catherine Tate. Yes, the characters are over the top; yes, there are some cheap toilets humour gags (pun intended). But as you get to know these characters the story arc quickly changes. Stick with it - you won't be disappointed.

Mary Poppins Returns (2018)

That's quite enough of that!

[10/10 · 29 December 2019]

One can only imagine that the diabolical reviews of this film are a result of 1964-ers believing that the original is of superior quality and cannot be bettered. It would appear that all flaws contained in the original (minor, as they are) have been forgotten... including Mr Van Dyke's appalling accent! Firstly, this film is not a remake; hence its title. Secondly, Ms Blunt portrays Mary Poppins in a way much more aligned to the original books. I'd go as far as to say that if these films were reversed there would be utter outrage at Andrews' sickly sweet interpretation! The film is a wonderfully endearing sequel; with memorable songs and a stellar cast. It captures the true spirit of Disney and the sense of family. Emily Blunt gives an award-worthy performancing as the stern but fair and imaginative nanny tasked with helping the Banks' children. Miranda gives an energetic performance as Jack with Meryl Streep's cameo being reminiscent of "We Love to Laugh". Overall, this is a wonderfully colourful family film guaranteed to make you smile.

Mary Poppins Returns (2018)

Dare I Say It??

[10/10 · 28 December 2018]

Ignore the negativity. Ignore the "how dare they mess with a classic?!". And, most definitely, ignore the "unforgettable music".

Mary Poppins Returns is practically perfect in every way. It has great characters, a fantastic score, memorable songs and ... dare I say it? ... a storyline! There are nods to the original without being a carbon copy; but its originality does shine through. It's colourful, it's fun, it made me smile. Don't tell me you all walked out of the cinema in the 60s remembering all the words to "Sister Suffragette" and "Stay Awake". They're cultural songs, that's why they're unforgettable. A couple more watches and you'll be "Looking Up" with "Imagination" and remembering that "nothing's lost forever".

Give it a go... you'll be pleasantly surprised. Oscar for Miss Blunt please :)

The Haunted Mansion (2003)

Spooktacular!!

[10/10 · 11 April 2004]

This film is definately going to be a big hit, which is just what Disney needs at the moment. Combining the brilliant acting skills of Eddie Murphy, special effects and that extra spark of Disney magic, The Haunted Mansion is a brilliant film which I would give 10/10!

If any of you have been to the attraction either in Florida (the best version), Paris (the scariest version) or California (I havent been there yet), you will note that throughout the film, the resemblence of the mansion was uncanny, not a mistake to be seen.

The effects of the "breathing" door was spot on, and I could almost feel myself sinking in my seat thinking "don't open it!!". Madame Leota (the head in the crystal ball) was very well animated, and you could almost imagine her in front of you, giving you the advice. The plot was brilliant, and follows Walt Disney's original theme for the ride.

This is definately the best Disney film (not animated) ever to be made... and I anticipate a Haunted Mansion 2!! Perhaps!

P.S. If you wold like to join their (ghosts) jamboree, There's a simple rule that's compulsery, Mortals pay a token fee, Rest in peace the Haunting's free, So hurry back they would like your company. =p

Cats (1998 Video)

Absolutely Fantastic

[10/10 · 21 February 2004]

After watching the video production of 'Cats' I can confidently say that this is the best musical EVER. If you love the book and other various productions then you just have to see this. With a beautiful mixture of super dancing and acting talent and a brilliant soundtrack this is a wonderful video for everyone to enjoy.

The songs are absolutely brilliant, all of them. From start to finish. Even if you only see this once you will be singing the songs for a lifetime to come. 'Macavity; The Mystery Cat', 'Skimbleshanks; The Railway Cat' and 'Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats' are my favourite songs, but the ever lasting 'Memory' is a good as ever. With a full 90 piece orchestra, the music has never sounded better.

I assure you, after watching this, you will remember it forever. And remember, you've got the Great Rumpuscat to thank for shutting those noisy Pollicle Dogs up at night!!

The Parent Trap (1998)

Twice the fun but three times the Laughter!

[10/10 · 22 August 2001]

This is only a very short comment on the film, but what more can I say... IT WAS BRILLIANT. I don't think I have laughed so much in my life. It was a big success at the cinemas, and is very suitable for all family members to watch. I think Linsey Lohan (Annie James/Hallie Parker) did a sensational job, working as both characters!