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Reviews
Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
A sequel better than the original
One of the true difficult goals to archive in cinema. Beating the original, especially a classic.
That's what I believe Top Gun Maverick had achieved. I was sceptical when this move came out. With more time to fine tune due to the pandemic, Tom Cruise, John Kosinski, Christopher McQuarrie and company nailed it.
There's so much to love, with the storyline, cinematography, visual stunts and sequences. They made this movie right for fans of the original and made new ones. The scene between Maverick and Iceman was heartwarming and introducing Penny Benjamin from the first film was smart.
I loved this movie so much, I went out and bought the Blu-Ray.
Poltergeist (1982)
Best 80s classic horror film
As an 80s child, this movie always freaked me out as a kid yet I loved it. One of Spielberg's masterpieces. Creating ET and Poltergeist around the same time - same filming locations. Complete opposites yet likely every 80s child watched both films. What I loved about Poltergeist is that the mood of the story is ultimately frightening in losing your child, yet Spielberg added his touch of humour and connection throughout the movie which makes us root for the freelings.
This was also my first childhood horror film that ended well. So I can always watch it again knowing everything ended nicely. Enjoy this special classic again for our 80s generation.
Witness (1985)
Excellent
One of the great and underrated movies to come out of the 1980s. Harrison Ford, Kelly McGillis and Lukas Haas star in this well made film. The plot, acting, slower pacing and directing is spot on. I remember watching as a young teen and loved it. As an adult watching it again today, not only does it bring back memorable nostalgic moments but it still holds well.
With many disappointing scripts today, I know I can always turn back the clock and rewatch classic movies from this decade and smile with satisfaction. Yes I'm biased but that's ok. We all have our beloved movies we can rewatch forever! This is one of mine.
Rocky IV: Rocky vs. Drago - The Ultimate Director's Cut (2021)
Thank You
Thank you for making this updated version Sylvester Stallone. After watching this nostalgic film, you can sense Stallone wanted to make this version for years but due to circumstances, etc. He could not until 2021. Rocky Vs Drago adds new scenes, depth, dialogue and meaning. Personally it lines up better with the Rocky series. You witness the deep friendship between Apollo and Rocky. It's not just about the fight, it's their way of life.
This director's cut shares much more with subtle changes and edits. Still keeping some of those famous Rocky IV training scenes while adding depth. If you're a fan, you'll enjoy it. I certainly did.
Goodfellas (1990)
"I Get To Live The Rest Of My Life Like A Schnook"
My all time favourite gangster movie. Watched originally in the 90s. And continue to watch it regularly. What a superb movie. Absolutely love the main cast of Ray Liotta, Robert Deniro, Joe Pesci and Lorraine Bracco. The narration, humour, shocking scenes. It has it all. I don't know why gangster movies have this fascination factor. Likely because most of us want to see that life without consequences.
I'm grateful this film was made and can be enjoyed occasionally as I grow old. So many great scenes. Some you chuckle, some you are in fear, others you just enjoy. Without a doubt my top 3 films of the 90s.
Heat (1995)
Excellent Film
One for the ages. There were some excellent films from the 90s. This is yet another one. The cast, tone, pacing, acting, filming and cinematography. Loved it the first time and still watch it every so often. Not only are Pacino and Deniro a delight, the rest of the supporting cast make this film one of the best.
Love the interaction and mini stories between characters. It's not overdone. And you feel for both antagonist and protagonist. Wanting to root for both sides but know ultimately one will prevail. From the first minute of the train slowly moving through the misty night air to the final scene in solitude of showdown between two at the airport. Michael Mann made a great film.