hannahroseimagery Reviews

The Big Country (1958)

A Subversion of the Happy-Go-Lucky Western

[8/10 · 17 January 2023]

I grew up watching those silly, sentimental old Westerns like Roy Rogers. The ones where the good guys are good, the bad guys are bad, and the guy always gets the girl in the end.

This movie starts out with the proverbial 'city slicker' coming to a small western town to marry the country girl he met in the city. She's sweet and pretty, but the main character, Jim McKay, learns that there's a lot of classicism and prejudice under the surface in his family-to-be that he just can't support. What really takes the forefront, though, is Mckay's gentle gallantry coming into full opposition against what we would call today, toxic masculinity. He comes into a world where men prove themselves in fistfights and he refuses to prove himself to anyone. He tries to make peace between warring families who want to see each other wiped out. And as it turns out, the good guys aren't all good and the bad guys aren't all bad. Maybe he won't get the happy ending he came for. And maybe he can't fix the war that's brewing.

I would compare this movie to The Sons of Katie Elder or The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance; it subverts, it makes you think, and it leaves a bittersweet taste in your mouth.

Labyrinth (1986)

I don't see the appeal

[5/10 · 27 October 2022]

My mom adores this movie, and I watched it with her as a teen. I confess, I don't understand why it has a cult following. It's a very poorly made fever dream about a young, foolish girl and her creepy adult stalker. It's irritating, obnoxious, and frankly, boring. It tries so hard to be something worthwhile, and instead it lands with a dull thud. It drags on and on and on with egregious special effects and campy dialogue, and ends with a failed attempt at depth. Please don't put your own kids thru this misery (unless you hate them, that is). There are better ways to tell your child they should appreciate their sibling lol.

iZombie (2015–2019)

Season 1 and 2-Pretty Good

[7/10 · 11 October 2022]

I watched this as a way to connect with my husband, who loves zombie shows. I hate zombies. Nevertheless, I genuinely enjoyed season 1 and much of season 2. The characters are amazing. However, as the plot lines grew more and more convoluted and the zombie plot line swelled, my interest waned. I enjoyed it at first as a mystery show with a plot twist. It quickly became yet another zombie apocalypse show. Of course, the makers no doubt planned that from the start, but like I said, I've never liked zombies. I think I'll keep the demented plotlines and gratuitous violence to my nightmares, thank you. I do still like the characters tho.

Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011)

Sweet and Sour

[5/10 · 29 September 2022]

This was my first time watching this movie. I can appreciate Cal and Emily's story, cringey tho it may have been a few times. I can appreciate Hannah and Jacob's story... although more time should have been spent on them IMO. I can sympathize with Jessica's inappropriate crush, and with Robbie's similarly inappropriate fantasies. The thing that made me gag... was the closure between Jessica and Robbie. If their genders were reversed we would immediately see it for what it is; gross and creepy. It surprises me that this movie was made in 2011. I thought those years were better than that. This movie is riddled with problematic missteps; while championing noble values at the end, it enjoys dragging us through a lot of mud and muck to get there. It's a sweet movie, but it left a decidedly sour taste in my mouth as well.

A Little Bit of Heaven (2011)

I Actually Liked It

[7/10 · 8 September 2022]

Was this movie formulaic and cliché? Yes. Was it laughable and cringeworthy? Also yes. Was it a heartwarming tearjerker? Definitely. I cried a lot. I love Kate Hudson, she reminds me of my sister who I miss. Her romantic interest and her friends are fantastic too. I actually really liked this movie, despite some silly parts. Perhaps it caught me at a good time but I will remember it fondly. I found especially striking its depiction of grief, and how differently ppl can experience it. The most memorable part, to me, was her father begging her "Tell me what to do, Marley." 😭 And her last, one-sided conversation with her pregnant friend...

Psych (2006–2014)

A fun show

[9/10 · 2 August 2022]

This show is light hearted and comedic. Occasionally it tries to be serious, but it's definitely more comfortable with jokes than gravity. I'm enjoying it.

The Right Stuff (1983)

Awful Movie

[3/10 · 1 July 2022]

This movie was positively awful. I loved Apollo 13 and Hidden Figures, and thought this would be in the same vein, but nope. The only worthwhile part, IMO, was watching John Glenn and his wife, who were super sweet together. Everyone else was flat at best. Some found the Yeager's relationship compelling, but IMO Barbara Hershey was wasted in this movie. This movie stretches on and on with boring and/or gross content, with only about 15 minutes worth watching. The 3 stars are for the Glenns.

No Time to Die (2021)

A Really Great Movie

[8/10 · 21 June 2022]

I understand that No Time to Die irritated some Bond fans. Daniel Craig's Bond was already the Bond of a new era, one that is increasingly rejecting the 'glamorous' misogyny of the old Bond. I have only seen 2 of Craig's Bond movies; this, and Casino Royale. I have seen a smattering of the old Bond movies. Craig's Bond is darker, more nihilistic, less amusing, but more sincere (IMO). This last movie follows the same theme. It is a fun action romp, but also has depressing elements. The characters are complex and likable. Some elements are disturbing, especially a couple scenes that put children in danger. But overall, it was not too much. What really came through, to me, was that it was another wonderful tribute to James Bond. And the music/cinematography were stunning! I loved it, but just be forewarned: some parts are very sad.

Also, for what it's worth, my Dad and Mom are Bond fans and they liked the movie.

The Game Plan (2007)

Who Could Possibly Dislike This Adorable Gem?

[8/10 · 1 June 2022]

This adorable movie was a staple in my family when I was growing up. It will make you laugh, cry, cheer... it is such a sweet and pure movie. I still quote it occasionally, and will always remember it fondly. Johnson seems to be having a bit of a resurgence lately, so if you've never seen this movie, take it from me; it's great.

The Courageous Heart of Irena Sendler (2009 TV Movie)

A Surprisingly Excellent Movie

[8/10 · 1 June 2022]

I read the book Irena's Children first, which was amazing, btw. The movie simplifies her often messy personal life, but I think it is actually quite well done. Anna Paquin is amazing, of course, and the other actors are great as well. It is not top-tier production quality, but very good. It made me laugh and cry, but most of all, it did what all good movies should (imo) do: it made me wonder "Would I do the right thing?" This is a very important question to ask ourselves. Irena Sendler should be remembered and honored far more than she is.

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)

Great Story, So-so Execution

[6/10 · 25 May 2022]

I really enjoyed the first Dr Strange. It was fun, weird, campy, and trippy. I admit much of my love for the first movie might just be my love for Cumberbatch... but I really liked it.

This movie is in many ways a worthy sequel. It has a great, trippy plot, wonderful actors and characters, and even though the tone is much darker, I enjoyed the overall thrust and premise. That said, certain parts of it were just... gross and unnecessary.

I write this as a rather sensitive mid-20-year-old who had to stop watching Agents of Shield bc it got way too sadistic and weird. I refuse to watch Moon Knight bc of some of the premises. I like watching tense action shows, but I am quickly turned off by too much gore. So, take from that what you will.

This movie did not cross the line of what I'm no longer willing to watch, but it came awfully close. I have never been fond of anything involving Zombies, demons, or demonic possession, and this included elements of essentially all three. It was at times a pseudo-horror film, for sure.

I don't regret watching it, but it has definitely turned me off from blindly watching any new MCU sequels (to be clear, I was always more of an incidental MCU follower anyway). I don't necessarily like where they are going with it these days.

Happier Than Ever: A Love Letter to Los Angeles (2021)

Impressive Talent

[8/10 · 28 April 2022]

I am in my 20s, just so you understand better where this review is coming from. I don't usually like pop, but something about Billie's brutal honesty and raw talent just blows me away. I first fell for her music after hearing No Time to Die. I admit I don't like all her songs; Oxytocin just made my head hurt. My favorites right now are Your Power 😢, Happier than Ever, and Male Fantasy. Her line about craving pity in Getting Older hits so hard; so many things that she says are just...wow. Good for her for being so honest. Not My Responsibility (spoken) and Overheated were painful to hear but important. She reminds us that she's just a young woman growing up with more scrutiny and criticism than we can imagine. I sense a lot of pain in her, and a fascinating mixture of both vulnerability and strength.

The video itself was quite good, with a tasteful mixture of animation and live action, spoken word and singing. To be clear, it's a concert with an occasional music video format. It still includes some profanity, but f-words are removed. It also includes some sexual innuendo and one irreverent reference. It's not for kids, but most teens could navigate it. I enjoyed it; it really showcases her power as a performer.

Jane Eyre (2006)

Great Acting and Chemistry

[8/10 · 27 April 2022]

This was a very good Jane Eyre adaptation. The acting was stellar, and the chemistry between Jane and Edward was inspired. The production quality was good, although I did find some of the flashbacks a bit... melodramatic. I am comparing this to the 2011 version, as I have only seen that and this one. I like that this one was a miniseries, and therefore allowed for so much character development. Unlike the 2011 version, Jane and Edward's relationship did not seem rushed or forced; it seemed as natural as breathing (as the book intended). Their sexual chemistry was off the charts as well, but it did not detract from their spiritual connection. I think this series stayed faithful to the intention of the book, but I admit I was pretty disappointed that they could not have stuck closer to the wording of the book. Unlike the 2011 version, which was quite faithful but too short, this one was well-managed time-wise but too paraphrased (in my opinion). It still worked well, but they failed to capture some of the poetic magic stemming from Bronte's original words. Nevertheless, I was impressed by what they did with the story, as it really made me believe in Jane and Edward.

Crazy Rich Asians (2018)

I did not expect to cry so much...

[8/10 · 24 April 2022]

I watched this movie expecting romance and comedy. Duh, right? Well, the romance quickly became secondary, and the humor was often a bit... over-the-top and well, cringey. The movie was quite stressful to watch. Rachel and Nick are sweet but naive. Astrid and Oliver are basically the only ones in Nick's family who show Rachel genuine kindness. Thankfully her friend is there to help her and tell her the truth. Rachel is relatable because, to a much lesser degree, I have experienced the same alienation many times.

For instance, shortly after I married my wonderful husband, I found myself visiting some of his family, where we stayed at a private club and attended the fanciest wedding I have ever seen, complete with a picturesque lake, cocktail hour, and chandeliers. I was petrified, and of course, I committed some faux pas that my social anxiety will never let me forget. I am thankful that many people were very kind and looked after me. Others were a bit... less kind. I felt completely alienated because I thought, as a child, that having nice, new toys and a room of your own was the ultimate level of wealth. Oh, I never suffered as a child, but I realized while watching the self-effacing nonchalance of our host that I was... a long way from home.

I know that a lot of people hate this movie, mainly because we naturally resent the unattainable. I do too. That class distinction is exactly what the movie is about. At first Rachel admirably rises to the challenge (I know I would have been long gone), but eventually, inevitably, someone's cruelty crushes even her. The themes of alienation, sacrifice, prejudice, and betrayal all hit home very hard. Rachel proves herself to be an incredible woman, and Crazy Rich Asians, for all of its pomp and nonsense, made me cry more than I thought possible. Perhaps it caught me at an unusually emotional time bc I went to a memorial service today, but I am glad I watched this heartfelt movie.

Jane Eyre (2011)

Excellent Acting...but Confusing Storyline

[9/10 · 21 April 2022]

I love this movie, almost as much as I love the book. Mia Wasikowska and Michael Fassbender are incredible as Jane and Edward. Some have said their chemistry is lacking, but I disagree entirely. I think they capture her trauma, inexperience, and emotional depth, and his jaded manner, bitterness, and passion quite well. All of the other actors are wonderful as well. The production quality, music, cinematography, and costuming are all inspired.

The movie begins when she is fleeing from Thornfield, and tells the pertinent events of Jane's life through flashbacks. The format is a tad confusing. There are a few gaps in the storyline, one being how Edward and Jane grew so close. It showed almost nothing of their blossoming friendship, which made their connection almost creepy. Another is who Adele is; I had to later explain it to my husband, who thought she was the daughter of the mysterious, mad inmate (i.e. Bertha). Lastly, and although this is less important, it explained little of Jane's connection to St. John and his sweet sisters. It seemed reckless when she asked to become their sister.

I have seen the deleted scenes, which are available on YouTube. If you enjoyed the movie, they bear watching, as I believe some of them should definitely not have been left out. Namely, the story of Adele's origin and the heartbreaking, tense way in which Jane ultimately flees Thornfield.

Altogether, I would say this was a well-done and faithful movie version of the legendary Jane Eyre. However, it can be difficult for viewers who have never read the book to understand it all. It is still striking and heartbreaking and beautiful though, like the book.

The Mentalist (2008–2015)

Overall very enjoyable

[9/10 · 18 April 2022]

This show can be a bit hit and miss. Some episodes are not the best; some lean more on (usually sexualized) violence than I would prefer, while others just have a rather sub-par mystery. However, I find that overall I like this series a lot.

Jane is surprisingly multilayered; he is rude, childish, kind, funny, and highly intelligent. He can be charmingly manipulative or brutally blunt, depending upon the need.

Lisbon is clipped and professional, but with a gentle, often humorous side that melds well with Jane's antics and the grim nature of their work.

Rigsby is a man's man with a surprisingly emotional side and a soft spot for Grace (Van Pelt).

Cho is hilariously deadpan and cynical. His good intentions are offset by his curt, sarcastic personality.

Van Pelt is a quiet, intelligent woman with a calculated personality and a vulnerable side.

Together, these characters form a surprisingly pleasant team. The series seamlessly alternates between light and dark themes, expertly blending humor and tragedy. The mysteries keep you guessing, although some are more obvious than others. I have seen up to Season 1 Episode 18, and my husband and I continue to enjoy it immensely. If the writers keep the same vibe, I see no reason why we won't continue to enjoy the show until its finish.

The Princess Bride (1987)

Partly nostalgia perhaps...

[9/10 · 6 April 2022]

I read the book (*abridged) sooo many times. Ppl tend to either love or hate this movie. They will complain that Buttercup is useless/boring/mean, or that it's cheesy. Yes, Buttercup is useless, and yeah, it's super cheesy. That's not the point. The point is that Wesley, Inigo, Fezzik, and even Viccini are hilarious and awesome. Who can say that they didn't tear up a bit when they heard "I want my father back, you SOB?" It's a silly romp, one with tons of quotable lines and lovable characters (or hate-able characters lol). That's the point of the movie; Buttercup is just a very pretty girl of very average intelligence (which the book labors to point out, if I remember rightly :D). Watch it to have fun, not to criticize it like its high art. It was never meant to be.

Balto (1995)

Love this movie!!!!!!

[9/10 · 6 April 2022]

I loved this movie so much as a child. I don't understand why it is not top-rated. It's so sweet, heartwarming, and beautiful to watch. It's about redemption, friendship (between animals, and between people and animals), love, sacrifice, and courage. I still love Balto.

WALL·E (2008)

Love this movie so much...

[9/10 · 6 April 2022]

PSA: Anyone who doesn't love Wall-E may not have a heart. What's not to love about the sweet, lonely little robot? I admit that the movie is often a tad bleak, but Wall-E and 'Eva' turn it into perfection. Enough said!

The Longest Day (1962)

Top Tier

[10/10 · 2 April 2022]

This movie may be the greatest of war movies. It has a impressively stellar cast, with an epic plot showcasing both big and little stories in the overarching saga of the WWII Normandy landings. It is in French, German, and English, and it will make you laugh, cry, cheer, and groan. Really, this is a terrific movie. I have watched it more times than I can count, and I still love it. And to be clear, though this may be hard to believe, I'm a woman under 30. I still love it.

Victoria (2016–2019)

Very Good

[9/10 · 2 April 2022]

I enjoyed this series a lot. I know it's a bit soapy at times and takes a few liberties, but if I wanted perfect historical accuracy I'd read a history book. Tbh I don't know why people can't more often enjoy a show for it's own merits.

The first and second season were phenomenal. Victoria masterfully transitioned from girl to women before the viewer's eyes. Albert started off rather sullen, but one soon sees that he is simply very earnest and straightforward-something that Victoria comes to understand and value. Lord Melbourne was masterfully acted, and his arc was wonderful. Most of the character arcs were wonderful, tbh, as we saw people slowly transform from seemingly useless/obnoxious to actually rather extraordinary.

Season 3 was still very good, but a bit more disappointing. It was heavily dramatic, and imo gave too much screen to characters who should have had very little. The storyline with the Francatellis was infuriating because it merely bereaved and then dumped them. The Monmouth storyline was frustrating bc it wasn't reconciled. It ended on a bit of a cliffhanger and I hope there is a season 4, but I am glad that Victoria and Albert are reconciled, bc that is the heart of the series. Overall, I enjoyed it very much, but it is hard to keep up the magic of the first 2 seasons.

3 Godfathers (1948)

Worst movie

[4/10 · 29 March 2022]

This movie was awful. I hated it, my family hated it, and we all wished we had not watched it. Why? Well there was just nothing good about it, that's all. Very big regret.

The Quiet Man (1952)

A Masterpiece

[8/10 · 29 March 2022]

Somewhat problematic, but super sweet. This movie would never be made today, but not only is it hilarious, it also taught me quite a bit about marriage.

Two completely opposite people must somehow learn to get along. It depicts a passionate but at times toxic relationship that somehow makes it over a really rough patch. And there's a few lessons learned along the way...

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)

Polarizing But Amazing

[8/10 · 29 March 2022]

This movie is hated by my entire John Wayne-loving family. I on the other hand love it. Why? Well, for starters, John Wayne's character isn't a hero per say. Neither is the main character, played by Jimmy Stewart. It's a somewhat dark view of the west (literally and figuratively), and there isn't really a happy ending. But something about its sweet and sour mixture of nostalgia and bitterness resonates with me. It's more of a meditation, a reminder that sometimes life isn't what it seems, and people are often better or worse than you think.

The Shootist (1976)

Might Make You Cry

[8/10 · 29 March 2022]

A surprisingly sweet story about one man's regret and very personal path to death. It's so sad, and yet somehow uplifting as well. Bacall is incredible in this movie.