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Reviews
The Holdovers (2023)
What a film!
The holdovers has such emotional that you cannot help but be affected by it. It reminds me a little of 'Dead Poets Society' and treads similar ground. The performances of all the main characters were phenomenal but Paul Giamatti's stood out especially.
The details of the film are evocative of New England in the 70s. It's shot on celluloid and has a quality of substance that is often missing from contemporary films. The plot takes you with it and I am sure that parts will resonate with anyone who has had difficulty with the demands of holiday season. It also focuses on a young man's development at school. The influence of Giamatti's character is that of a mentor who has his own demons that he is compelled to face. Overall it is a light film with an optimistic message: be yourself.
Madres paralelas (2021)
Layers of symbolism which need reflection
This film needs to be watched a few times to make sense of the deep themes in this theme. It has a similar weight and depth to previous films of his such as Volver. The concept of origins, birth and death, uncovering hidden histories and the difficulty of living with a questionable legacy.
It seems to ask questions of contemporary Spain and serves as a snapshot of the national mood. How does it come to terms with its difficult history while still living in the present era? A thought-provoking and emotionally powerful film shot in his signature style.
Lulli (2021)
Breezy Brazilian coming-of-age flick
Don't listen to the negative reviews. It's a light-hearted film about medical students finding their way. Warm, cheerful with a kind message. The lead is really attractive imho. A nice upbeat 90 minutes.
Drop Dead Fred (1991)
Deeper than you think
This film isn't what it seems to be about. It looks crass and almost appears to make light of mental illness. It's lurid and silly. It's childish and definitely appeals to children for that reason. That's actually the whole point of the film. It's about reminding people of who they are in essence and breaking cycles of abuse.
Need for Speed (2014)
White knuckle ride
It starts off fast and doesn't slow down. Better than you'd think.
Joshy (2016)
Original film
This movie shows what a good time you can have with your mates when things in life go awry. Sometimes a weekend piss up is all you need. Good film.
This Means War (2012)
Fun movie. Entertaining and enjoyable light film
Straightforward but entertaining film. Not particularly deep but light-hearted.
Ava (2020)
Good movie. See for yourself
There are a lot of negative reviews for what was a pretty solid effort. Enjoyable action film. Quite violent. Entertaining for sure.
Action Point (2018)
Reckless and entertaining
To all the people who wrote this off, don't take it so seriously. Original film. Stupid, reckless and entertaining. Have fun while you can
Suburbicon (2017)
Ignore the negative ratings- clever, subversive film
This is a gruesome, challenging, engrossing, horrifying film that could make for uncomfortable watching but is so well plotted and written that it gets away with it.
Murder at 1600 (1997)
Classic 90s washington thriller
If you want to watch a stylish film that is original look no further ....
The Favourite Game (2003)
Whistfulness and romantic illusions
Lacking substance. The film spends a long time showing close ups of the main protagonist lighting cigarettes. It feels like the characters do not really engage with each other but spend a lot of time going through romantic tropes like writing poems in cafes with a glass of wine. When characters talk to each other it does not feel sincere but a fantasy of an ideal relationship without limits or any daily responsibilities. Perhaps it is an accurate depiction of the book, in which case, I am judging a faithful film unfairly.
La La Land (2016)
Mesmerising
This film is sublime. The way it's shot, the acting, the score, the dancing, the plot. It's a classic film in the mould of 'Singin' in the rain' but set in the present day with the same concerns. It's a love story with a realistic ending. The message you come away with is 'follow your dreams' without it feeling too saccharine. I have not been that affected by a film in years which is why I chose to write a review as I never write on here. This film has been given a lot of hype and is bound to win several awards but in this case they are very much deserved. It's a such a well-made film on every front. Can't fault it. Don't listen to some of miserable reviewers like the one on the main page...