jakeh Reviews

Don't Look Up (2021)

Put a bag on your head...

[1/10 · 1 January 2022]

First of all, I didn't even recognize Cate Blanchett. Had to look at the credits to make sure. Gotta give her credit for the transformation into her character.

Secondly, Jennifer Lawrence is the only real actor that has anything to say.

This Netflix 'movie,' to use the term very loosely, is a horrendously angry portrayal of just where our society is in this space and time: filled with hate, angst and blasphemy. I made it through this flix but wish I had turned it off about 15-minutes in and saved my soul from the from the utter loss of feeling.

My, how the film industry has fallen with a thud on the floor of any credible cinema.

Save yourself some time: put on some classical music, open a nice bottle of wine, put a bag over your head and your virtue mask on...enjoy.

It ain't here...

A Dickens of a Holiday! (2021 TV Movie)

A Dickens of a movie

[10/10 · 14 December 2021]

Quite honestly I've been put off by many Hallmark movies since they've gone PC and woke in 2020. However, one can stumble across a very, very good one if one looks hard enough. Don't need the PC to keep me warm. "A Dickens..." is a '10' for me: quick repartee, humor, enthusiastic performances from the two main characters, and a, general, a fun Hallmark movie to watch, and one I'll be sure to watch each Christmas.

D'Orsay and. Polaha.do a wonderful job. Their character's chemistry is obvious from the get go. I'd like to see more of them in future HM movies. There a few twists and surprises, but none of the typical 'go away' and 'come back' that Hallmark has scripted in almost all of their editions. I very rarely give a '10' for any movie, let alone Hallmark, but I'd highly recommend this one as a 'must' watch. The only (and I mean only) drawback was Polaha's over-acting as Scrooge which was, I'm sure in the script. But that was a very minor drawback, it all worked out in the end.

Again, watch this one, very entertaining and very fine acting by all. It's a 'repeat' watch on my list, and a Dickens of a movie.

A Boy Called Christmas (2021)

Nighmarishly horrid

[2/10 · 25 November 2021]

I have to agree with the reviewer who called this flick very dark, angry, and scary. Not kid friendly at all, rather nightmarishly horrid. The 'Boy' actor is in his second film and does his best. Miika the mouse is probably the only shinning light with quick and witty retorts and comments.

Not recommended for very young children. Lots of anger here which is, if anything, the opposite of what Christmas should be about. In our angry world which is regurgitated in the news on a daily basis, 'The Boy...' only festers and maligns any good will we might desire.

The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017)

Inaccurate but entertaining

[7/10 · 19 November 2021]

Dan Stevens does a wonderful job of 'being' Charles Dickens. No problem with the presentation though there are many inaccuracies: just one for example, From the 'The Dickensian (1938),' Dickens probably got the name 'Marley' from a friend of his, a Dr. Miles Marley, an Irish doctor, at a St. Patrick's Day party. Dickens liked the surname, jotted it down, and, thus history. There are several other instances that preclude the movie's 'history' of 'The Christmas Carol' origins.

An invaluable source for TCC background and those origins is 'The Annotated Christmas Carol' by Michael Patrick Hearn.

If you are a fan of 'Boz' and his work 'The Christmas Carol' this would be a worthwhile read of this entertaining annotation which is extremely comprehensive. I still loved this movie and Stevens' performance. Just wish it had been more historically accurate.

The Tomorrow War (2021)

Whitespikes: future predators (today and tomorrow)

[8/10 · 2 July 2021]

Lots of action and not too many lulls to drag things to a stop. The story, itself, was rather unique: a war of tomorrow is upon mankind thirty years in the future. The children of 2052 come back to 2022 to implore humanity for help with a battle in the future. Novel story-telling.

Chris Pratt and Yvonne Strahovski drive the movie with the always interesting and glib J. K. Simmons adding to a nice cast. Well written. At 2hr 18min (it seemed shorter, moves fast) you can't go wrong with Pratt's first Executive Produced Sci=Fi thriller. 8/10.

The Phantom of Crestwood (1932)

Something about this movie...

[9/10 · 27 April 2021]

I saw this was on TCM and recorded it because I love old movies. The film has a hold on me and I continue to watch it almost weekly having seen it, conservatively, about 20 times. I always see something I've missed. Cortez and Morley are fabulous, the cast is interesting, the plot meandering, and the sets are mediocre but sustainable for the low budget (for the time). Very few movies of this time period can grab me, hold me, and still leave me wanting to watch it again. I know my review and platitudes will seem ridiculous to whomever reads this. Heck, I can't even explain it. A rare jewel from the early 30's though there are, obviously, many fine movies during that time period.

I scratch my head and wonder why 'The Phantom of Crestwood' has such a hold on me and won't let go. As for monetary matters, the current value of $187,000 (production cost) in 1932 is equivalent to $3,615,474.38 today (2021), and the film made a profit of $100,000, so it wasn't exactly a loser at the box office especially post-depression. Hey, think I'll watch it again tonight. Never boring.

U14 (2020)

Texas Radio, the Big Beat

[6/10 · 31 January 2021]

'..so a guy walks into a bar and...' no wait '..a guy works at a radio station.' There, much better (at least he brought his own bottle of whiskey). Not a bad half hour short about a DJ (Lance Allen Kramer, famous for 'The Great Food Truck Race') who appears to open the pit of hell and falls into it. Not too scary but I did like the actor who played the DJ who gave it some credibility. Throwing in an old bluegrass song by Earl Johnson, and you've got a wicked story about 'U2' no, wait, I mean a 'song' on a 'U14' cassette (remember those, still have a few, well, more than a few. A good way to waste 26+ minutes I guess. Ending implies...

Staged (2020–2023)

Brilliant...more please!

[10/10 · 30 December 2020]

I stumbled across this while watching some older episodes of "Who" (can't stand the new Doctor, so reliving the past). I must say Tennant and Sheen are absolutely brilliant. Catches the 'lockdown' fever perfectly and it's wonderful to see these actors in their home environment during this horrible pandemic. Witty, insightful, uproarious humor, never a dull moment though they do have those moments. I'm sure we can all identify with their plight as we all go through this time in our history. A must see if you like these actors as much as I do. Fantastic idea and put to use very well.

Christmas She Wrote (2020 TV Movie)

Political correctness alert

[1/10 · 7 December 2020]

I was OK until about 45 min into this one, rather boring but watchable. But not being a fan of Hallmark's new PC culture, I was uncomfortable at that point from a moral standpoint. Passed on this one as I did with "The Christmas House." Long for the days of family friendly Hallmark presentations which appears to have ended this year. I'm presently watching older HM movies prior to 2020. My favorite this year, however, is "Five Star Christmas."

If I Only Had Christmas (2020 TV Movie)

A strong 5, I liked Toto the most

[5/10 · 3 December 2020]

I also saw the 'Wizard of Oz' connection (which became more obvious as the story progressed) Darcy Gale (Dorothy Gale) from Kansas (City). Also, the usage of CCB's line 'great and powerful Austin (Christie),' and the red (dancing) shoes, were all literal 'grabs' from Oz, and there are more. Unfortunately, that connection couldn't save this HM presentation. CCB, as usual, is great, and I love Warren Christie ever since I saw him in Hallmark's "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (2008)." A very fine actor.

The story, though, was very porous and not entirely what you'd expect from a Candice HM movie. On the positive side, the supporting (NYC) cast was very enthusiastic and helped the story, what there was of it, along.

I gave it a five, basically a 'yawner' except for the dog. Darcy's dog (I call him Toto, too) was excellent. And very cuddly.

Five Star Christmas (2020 TV Movie)

A pleasant surprise, hilarious, great ensemble

[9/10 · 29 November 2020]

I was pleasantly surprised with "Five Star Christmas." As opposed to the usual pap of most of the stories so far this year, this quirky (I know that word has come up before) and romantic comedy was refreshing. The storyline was well written and thought out, coming together nicely with the usual romantic ending on several levels. The energy that Lenz gives off was contagious as was the interplay between the characters. This is my favorite for the 2020 season (a few so far were bland, boring and so very predictable which could describe Hallmark, overall, to a tee). Not since the fantastic "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (2008)," which featured Henry Winkler, have I enjoyed a Hallmark Christmas feature so much. Put this one on your 'Watch list,' you won't regret it. I'd give it 9-stars.

The Real Right Stuff (2020)

A wonderful documentary, a must watch

[10/10 · 21 November 2020]

Just finished watching this documentary and was quite amazed to see footage that I had not seen before. The additional Tom Wolf dialogue added much and gave this viewer a glimpse into how he managed to write "The Right Stuff."

A word that comes to mind when I finished viewing is the word 'transfixed.' The entire documentary moves rather rapidly through the Mercury program, there were no dead spots.

Having seen just about all of the documentaries on the NASA space program, this particular documentary went even further than many of previous documentaries with behind the scenes videos and interviews, some quite rare and seldom, if ever, seen. A splendid video encapsulation of the early space program and the courageous men and women that comprised that program.

Never Kiss a Man in a Christmas Sweater (2020 TV Movie)

Happy Holiday?

[5/10 · 10 November 2020]

Too bad Hallmark calls this holiday a Holiday. It's Christmas, people.

Ironic since the title has 'Christmas' but should have been "...in a Holiday Sweater" and then Hallmark would be genuinely politically correct.

Disappointed in Hallmark for leaving Christmas out of Christmas, and caving in to the secular mob. Geez.

Once Were Brothers (2019)

Amazing documentary, head-turning music history

[9/10 · 26 April 2020]

Robbie Robertson does a wonderful job taking us down the initial primrose path of the music of The Band, bluntly, honestly, with with compassion, up to the time when hard drugs changed two of the five.

I can vividly remember getting the 'brown' album, which I still have, and being blown away by what I thought were former Confederate soldiers (which they resembled on the cover, old Civil War photos come to life). The music, vocals, and lyrics were indelibly fixed in my mind and I played the album for days even up to today. I played the tape out in my car (perfect driving music). 'Once Were Brothers' is music history iwell thought out and told by Robertson with archival footage of the other members and guest historians (Ronnie Hawkins, their road manager, Clapton, Van Morrison, etc.). Lots of stuff here that I didn't know. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute, and the doc prompted me to get out my Band LPs and CDS for a nice listen.

If you are a fan or even new to The Band you shouldn't be disappointed in this film. Just take a trip back and enjoy the scenery.

The Hunt (II) (2020)

Horrible movie, blood, blood, blood

[1/10 · 22 March 2020]

This is one sick flick. I don't or cannot comprehend why this was made in the first place. From start to finish The Hunt is sadistic violence at every turn. The sick people who thought of this and put it into production and release need serious psychiatric help. The Hunt is a prime example of how low our society has come with regard to blood and guts to appeal to other very sick viewers. Stomach turning and not worth viewing even once. Will be gone soon and, hopefully, forgotten though I don't know how you could forget the inhumanity depicted in this abhorrent film. A 1/10 only because I could give it a zero.

Snatchers (2019)

OMG

[8/10 · 8 January 2020]

TBH I was LMAO but SMH BC she wouldn't spill TEA and she THICC compared to her bestie who was JELLY over her friend's situation. This flick, that will disappear into the abyss of forgetfulness as a movie, was, nevertheless, wild but very predictable. It was SHOOK but BASIC and AWKS. Had every possible teen acronym you could imagine. Worth a watch, at least once for the very fake 'alien.' The soundtrack was BOP BTW.

Remember, YOLO.

Chasing the Moon (2019)

Lots of new information, at least for me...

[9/10 · 10 July 2019]

I've watched just about all of the NASA specials on Science channel and other networks, but I was very quickly intrigued by this PBS series which covers all the bases and more. In all the hours I've watched before, "Chasing..." added so much more of interest. Examples include the first nominated black astronaut Ed Dwight Jr. and what he went through (especially Chuck Yeager's racist comments to his fellow white flyers about Dwight which I had never heard or read about though the information is out there), and JFK's visit with Von Braun for the showcase booster demonstration at NASA and JFK's reaction. Not a big fan of PBS, but I have to admit this series is definitely worth a watch for the comprehensive and detailed history of the NASA program, from beginning to end.

Designated Survivor (2016–2019)

The Progressive Agenda run rampant

[2/10 · 12 June 2019]

I liked the first two seasons but I started watching Season 3 from Netflix and was appalled. The profanity is widespread, the political and social correctness is (from a progressive point of view) galling. Here we have promiscuity everywhere, and we have a homosexual assistant in the WH communications department who is, conveniently, black, so two bases are covered right there for the progressive agenda. I found it funny when Seth (Kal Penn) first sees his new assistant kiss his male "boyfriend" and he says, while looking at his phone "Oh,...my parents just died" as his reaction. Don't think I'll watch anymore of this. Morality has been thrown out the window and knocked the flower box (Seasons 1 and 2) into the street. Too bad, was a great show for two years, not anymore, and Netflix is the satan of independent programming...

Cold Pursuit (2019)

Humor and Revenge

[9/10 · 2 May 2019]

I like Liam Neeson and just about all of his movies. This movie, however, has so much dark humor surrounding his performance that it makes this a minor masterpiece. I was intrigued by the elements of humor and very low key acting of Neeson. Pleasantly surprised by this movie. I'm not into blood and guts but I knew what I was getting into so I just rolled with it. Personally, I think it's better than all the "Taken" movies Neeson has made. Pleasantly surprised, and the kid in this flick was a very nice element to add: a genius kid who rolls with the punches better than all the bad guys. Recommend this movie very much.

Hunter Killer (2018)

Good storyline, action, and acting

[10/10 · 15 January 2019]

I just watched this flick this afternoon and was riveted. Really enjoy Butler's acting and character as well as the Russian captain they rescued. Well put together and highly recommended thus a 10 rating.

Bad Samaritan (2018)

Suspenseful and a little predictable

[8/10 · 5 August 2018]

I really enjoyed this film and was mesmerized by Tennant's character. The plot was a little off-balance due to the fact we never really found out why the girl was in captivity and how it occurred. Never the less, I was entertained and enjoyed the film. Though a little erratic in scripting and Robert's (Sean Falco) character was a little too snivling and antiseptic, I found Tennant's characterization a real 180-degree role change for him. a real insane character and his American accent was perfect with only a few slips of that Scottish twang. Recommended thriller.

Kodachrome (2017)

Death, redemption, reconciliation

[8/10 · 9 May 2018]

Ed Harris (Benjamin Ryder, famed photographer, a fictional character) dominates this movie with excellent acting (adding to his many fine performances during his career), and his displays of both sarcasm and pathos after years of bitterness. He and his nurse (Olsen), who encourages his estranged son Matt (Sudeikis) to accompany them to Kansas to develop Kodachrome film rolls on the last day that that film type will be done by a photo shop in Kansas. Harris is dying of liver cancer and the film revolves around his reconciliation with his son and his son's reconciliation with his failing music career and failed marriage. The film was released in April, 2018, so the 2017 date is incorrect. Harris should get an award nomination at the least for his riveting performance. All the cast was excellently cast and it's an excellent flick dealing a historical event, the end of Kodachrome (see the article in NYT December, 2010 article "For Kodachrome Fans, Road Ends at Photo Lab in Kansas" which was the inspiration for the movie). Director Mark Raso blends three separate reconciliations into one very good movie.

The Last Movie Star (I) (2017)

Pleasantly surprised, emotionally touched

[9/10 · 30 March 2018]

Quite honestly I was prepared to dislike this movie. I couldn't pin down exactly why but was I very wrong. I was extremely touched with this thought provoking look at celebrity and age. I have not seen any actor portray their aging with such honesty in their later movies. Reynolds was fabulous and still as blunt and straight forward in his approach to the part as he has before in most of his movies. Ariel Winter, whose character I detested at the beginning, did an excellent job as Reynolds escort at a film festival in Nashville. His life story was a learning experience for her and a teaching lesson on how growing older comes with trials, tribulations, and regrets which she could learn from as she goes on with her own life. Wonderful acting by both, and a must see movie. Simply put, I think it's the best work Reynolds has ever done.

Victoria (2016–2019)

Excellent docudrama, wonderful acting

[9/10 · 16 January 2018]

I've watched every episode of Victoria and haven't been bored once. Coleman does a wonderful job as the Queen and Hughes is excellent as the Prince. You could see Coleman's potential on the Doctor Who series, she was fabulous in that wonderful series. It's interesting to see them both grow from not liking each other at all, but developing a fervent devotion and love for each other. So far, my favorite episode was the last of Season 2, "Comfort and Joy," a Christmas-themed episode which was appropriate for the scheduling. I'm an Anglophile, so this is juicy meat for me, and so interesting and, at times, riveting. Love history.

The Investigator (II) (2013)

Excellent Christian-based film

[10/10 · 26 September 2014]

I throughly enjoyed this film and it makes a good companion to "God Is Dead," (also an excellent faith-based movie in this genre-type). The acting is well done as is the writing. The storyline is believable (it is from a true story) and flows smoothly while raising and answering questions about Christianity and Jesus Christ. In addition, "The Investigator" shows how a life change can work to the good in ones life if one only has faith. If you enjoyed "God Is Dead," then you most certainly will like this film. It's good to see more Christian-themed films entering the market. God knows we need them, especially at this time of world trials and tribulations. Linda's review, above, is excellent and I can't improve on her review with mine, but it's my two cents worth...