PimKraster Reviews

Bodem (2024)

Dutch Drama with Heart and Depth.

[7/10 · 16 April 2024]

Eva Crutzen shines in her role as Cat, delivering a performance that is both heartfelt and authentic. While I've found her previous work to be hit-or-miss, she truly excels in striking the right balance of emotion and humor.

Unlike many Dutch dramas that lose steam after a few episodes, this series kept me watching throughout its run. The storyline is engaging, the characters are well-developed, and the pacing is spot-on. The series masterfully navigates through heartbreaking moments while still offering lots of laughs. It's a testament to the well-crafted script and talented cast.

However, it is not without its flaws. It's hard to praise Meral Polat's performance. Whether due to miscasting or lack of skill, her scenes feel lackluster compared to the rest of the cast, taking away from the overall quality of the series.

Furthermore, the lack of originality and the striking resemblance to other acclaimed shows like "Six Feet Under" and "Russian Doll" the lather even clearer considering the first 15 minutes of episode 1 is a scene-by-scene remake. Additionally, Cat, the main character shares loads of similarities and character traits with the protagonist of "Russian Doll," further reinforcing the sense of familiarity.

However, it's worth noting that after the second episode. The series begins to find its own identity, exploring themes and storylines that set it apart from its American counterpart.

Another major drawback is the poor choice of music throughout the series. While the music sets the mood effectively, the lyrics often feel mismatched with the scene. It's a recurring mistake that Dutch showrunners seem to make time and again. If the words don't complement the on-screen action or add depth to the storytelling, then perhaps it's best to opt for instrumental pieces or explore other options altogether.

Additionally, the series seems to target a specific demographic, often leaving younger or older viewers feeling disconnected from some of its themes. While this isn't necessarily a flaw, it does limit the series' appeal.

Ending on a positive note, the final episode delivers a satisfying conclusion to the series, tying up loose ends and providing closure for the characters and plotlines. It's a testament to the writers' skill that the ending feels both fitting and fulfilling. Showcasing the potential of Dutch television dramas to deliver engaging and thought-provoking content. I rate this 7/10.

De Joodse Raad (2024)

Beautifully made! Every second is compelling.

[7/10 · 8 April 2024]

Firstly, I must say that Pierre Bokma's portrayal of David Cohen and Claire Bender's performance were outstanding. They played the roles of Jewish council members with such complexity that it was hard not to be moved by the moral dilemmas they faced.

However, Monic Hendrickx and Malou Gorter's performances fall short of expectations. Despite being praised as great actresses, they seem to consistently fall back on familiar character types, resulting in predictable character arcs that lack surprise or depth.

Despite this the show is beautifully made, its cinematography and score create a compelling atmosphere transporting viewers to the wartime struggles of Amsterdam's Jewish community. These technical elements contribute significantly to the overall impact of the show, elevating it beyond its flaws.

Dune: Part Two (2024)

This is a testament to the power of cinema.

[9/10 · 8 April 2024]

This is a cinematic masterpiece filled with awe-inspiring visuals, captivating performances, and a gripping narrative. Director Denis Villeneuve's unmistakable style breathes life into the legendary universe.

Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya are amazing, their characters add emotion and depth to the story, drawing audiences deeper into the world of Arrakis. The cinematography is nothing short of breathtaking. Each frame is meticulously crafted, transporting viewers to the majestic landscapes of the desert planet. The visuals are further enhanced by special effects that push the boundaries of imagination.

Despite its runtime of over three hours, Dune: Part Two never loses its momentum. Every moment is filled with intrigue, suspense, and action, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

My personal viewing experience was however ruined a bit by the choice of Screen X. The additional screen did little to enhance the immersion, and only around a third of the movie was optimized for it. Fortunately, this did not take away from the overall brilliance of the film. Even on a traditional screen, the film would undoubtedly earn a high rating.

Villeneuve has managed to create a testament to the power of cinema and it cements its place among the greatest sci-fi epics ever made. For these reasons, I rate it 9/10.

Oppenheimer (I) (2023)

Nolan relies on telling rather than showing.

[5/10 · 7 April 2024]

As I settled in to watch Oppenheimer, it quickly became apparent that the film suffered from what I like to call: "The Nolan Syndrome", three hours is an excessive runtime for a film that fails to hold the viewer's attention. By the time I reached the one-hour mark, I was already feeling weary and disengaged.

What struck me most was the lack of visual interest or excitement throughout the film. It felt as though you could simply listen to the audio and have virtually the same experience, as nothing was captivating or visually stimulating to hold one's attention. Nolan keeps insisting on Oppenheimer's brilliance without any meaningful demonstration of it.

Furthermore, characters were introduced in a rather lackluster manner, primarily through other characters talking about them or mentioning them by name, rather than being introduced organically through the progression of the story. Instead of experiencing richly crafted characters with depth and complexity, it felt like I was watching mere shadows of individuals, barely fleshed out enough to hold my interest. When you add the continuous barrage of loud background music. It felt as though Nolan was desperately trying to compensate for the film's shortcomings by bombarding us with noise, making it difficult to focus on the narrative. The constant flipping between timelines only adds to the confusion, distracting from any potential depth the story might have had.

Oppenheimer left me feeling profoundly underwhelmed and dissatisfied. The film's saving grace undoubtedly lies in the exceptional performances delivered by its cast but Christopher Nolan's reliance on telling rather than showing, coupled with the film's lack of visual intrigue and character development, ultimately resulted in a viewing experience that fell far short of expectations.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

Reminded me why I fell in love with Mario and Luigi in the first place.

[8/10 · 7 April 2024]

Settling into my favorite spot on the couch, having missed The Super Mario Bros. Movie in cinemas, I was eager to experience it from the comfort of my own home.

From the get-go, it was clear that the story was treading familiar grounds, weaving through a landscape littered with clichés and predictable plot points. Yet, somehow, it managed to retain an undeniable charm. Whatever it was, I found myself fully immersed in the adventure, eagerly anticipating each familiar encounter and nodding to the source material.

From the adrenaline rush of racing through Rainbow Road in Mario Kart to the towering barrels of Donkey Kong's jungle, every scene was a visual marvel that transported me back to countless hours spent mastering the games.

But it wasn't just the nostalgic nods that kept me glued to the screen the movie is also filled with clever jokes and witty one-liners that had me laughing out loud. Whether it was a playful jab at Bowser's kidnapping antics or a sly nod to Mario's iconic catchphrase, the film knew exactly how to tickle my funny bone.

However, there was one notable absence that left me puzzled: Yoshi. How could they overlook such a beloved character?

While it may not have been the most original film, it certainly left a lasting impression on me, earning a solid 8 out of 10 rating for its rewatchability and clever use of the source material that reminded me why I fell in love with Mario and Luigi in the first place.

Starship Troopers (1997)

A Timeless Critique of War

[8/10 · 7 April 2024]

Paul Verhoeven's Starship Troopers stands as a monumental achievement even in 2024, I was born after this movie was released in 1997, but I was surprised the film remains as relevant and impactful today as it did upon its initial release, thanks to Verhoeven's keen directorial vision.

The film's most remarkable aspect is its unflinching portrayal of the horrors of war and the insidious nature of propaganda. Verhoeven expertly deconstructs the glorification of military service, presenting a dystopian future where citizenship is earned through military service and dissent is quashed under the guise of patriotism. Through stunning visual effects and visceral action sequences, Starship Troopers exposes the brutality and futility of war, challenging viewers to question the narratives perpetuated by those in power.

Central to the film's success is the casting of Casper Van Dien and Denise Richards in the lead roles. Verhoeven's deliberate choice of casting actors who embody the quintessential American image adds an extra layer of irony to the narrative. Van Dien and Richards deliver performances that are intentionally bland and unremarkable, serving as perfect embodiments of propaganda portrayed in the film. Their seemingly flawless appearances only serve to underline the emptiness of the ideals they represent.

The film boasts impressive practical and visual effects that bring its interstellar conflict to life. From space battles to ground skirmishes against aliens, Verhoeven crafts thrilling action sequences that keep me on the edge of my seat.

Starship Troopers stands as a timeless piece of cinema that remains as relevant today as it was upon its release. Paul Verhoeven's masterful direction, coupled with the perfect casting of Casper Van Dien and Denise Richards, elevates the film beyond mere entertainment to deliver a powerful commentary on the perils of war and the dangers of unchecked politics. With its stunning visuals and thought-provoking themes, Starship Troopers is a must-watch for cinephiles and sci-fi enthusiasts alike.

Sphinx (2024– )

Sphinx lacks originality and fails to live up to the hype.

[6/10 · 7 April 2024]

Sphinx presents itself as a gripping mystery set against the backdrop of Limburg but falls short of its promise due to its overrated status and lack of originality.

While the premise of the series is intriguing, the execution often feels derivative, borrowing heavily from established tropes and plot devices seen in similar productions. As a result, Sphinx struggles to distinguish itself in a genre saturated with similar offerings.

The series' reliance on familiar character archetypes and narrative beats may leave discerning viewers feeling underwhelmed, as they find themselves predicting plot twists and resolutions well in advance.

Meanwhile, Andrea Vass's portrayal as Eva, the 17-year-old girl at the center of the series, is a standout highlight. Vass brings a nuanced complexity to the role, capturing Eva's vulnerability and resilience with remarkable depth. Her performance adds layers to the character, drawing viewers deeper into the mystery surrounding her disappearance.

However, the immersion is hindered by the performances of Rifka Lodeizen, Marcel Hensema, and Benja Bruijning. While undoubtedly talented actors, they seem to be stuck in a repetitive cycle, portraying characters that feel all too familiar. Lodeizen's portrayal often echoes previous roles, lacking the necessary depth to fully engage audiences. Similarly, Hensema and Bruijning's characters feel like recycled versions of roles they've played in the past, failing to bring anything fresh to the table. While Vass's performance shines brightly, it's overshadowed by the predictability of the supporting cast, diminishing the impact of pivotal moments within the narrative.

In conclusion, Sphinx may offer a passable diversion for fans of the mystery genre, but it ultimately fails to live up to the hype surrounding it. The cinematography and score contribute to the overall atmosphere, creating an immersive viewing experience that manages to hold attention, albeit fleetingly. Its lack of originality and reliance on tired clichés prevent it from reaching its full potential, resulting in a series that feels more like a missed opportunity than a groundbreaking achievement.

In addition, viewers should be aware that Sphinx delves heavily into the subject of sexual acts with minors, a sensitive topic that is depicted on screen. The creators of the show opt to depict explicit scenes, including full frontal nudity of the main character (the actress is 26 years old in real life, but she does play a minor), a decision that may be unsettling and triggering for some audience members.

Capturing the Killer Nurse (2022)

So slow I need 4 cups of coffee to stay awake

[4/10 · 13 November 2022]

This documentary had me struggling to stay awake. It is incredibly slow-paced and delves into details that aren't all that necessary.

We jump right into the ending, where Cullen is on the verge of getting caught, and detectives are filling us in on what led up to this moment. That opening hooked me and kept me watching till the end.

But then, the last hour was just tough to get through. It's all these personal anecdotes from people who either knew Cullen or his victims, but they're told so slowly and without much interest. I could step away to make myself a cup of coffee, come back after ten minutes, and it'd feel like the movie hadn't moved forward at all.

Seriously, filmmakers, it's been ages since the '80s. Let's pick up the pace and cut out the boring bits.

Assassination Nation (2018)

Disappointing viewing experience.

[5/10 · 8 August 2022]

One significant flaw of the film lies in its dependence on shock value. While gratuitous violence and graphic scenes may initially startle viewers, they fail to deepen character development or propel the plot forward. Instead, these instances come across as exploitative and unnecessary.

Moreover, the film's attempt at social commentary feels contrived and superficial. While it touches on important issues, it lacks meaningful insights or solutions. Rather than offering nuance, it resorts to clichés and stereotypes, ultimately diluting its intended message. A major issue arises from the incessant focus on LGBTQ+ and women's rights by its characters. The writer and director had a narrow vision, overly fixated on these themes to the detriment of character development. This tunnel vision leads to a disconnection with the characters, some of whom are barely recognizable as part of the narrative until their demise.

The portrayal of the trans character is particularly annoying, not because of her identity but due to the lack of depth in her personality, making it difficult to empathize with her. This deficiency extends to all characters in the film.

Hollywood must refrain from injecting personal political beliefs into films and focus on creating authentic narratives. While the movie's plot, acting, and technical aspects such as cinematography and editing are passable, the movie falls short of its potential due to its over-reliance on shock value, and neglect of genuine character development resulting in a disappointing viewing experience.

iZombie (2015–2019)

Wanted to give it 8 stars but deducted -1

[7/10 · 23 March 2021]

Just to be clear, I had a great time watching this show and I loved it from start to finish... But in my opinion, this show did have its flaws. So let's get into it:

After season 2 it felt like the writers lost it for a while, they switched the format, plot, and storylines in almost every episode, and then, when they decided on a plotline. The creators build it up to then just drop it 10 minutes later. This went on into the final season.. by the time we reach season 5 episode 11, it doesn't even feel like we're getting close to an ending. But with two more episodes to go, we have to be.

Episode 12 is great, I love the heist and the cliffhanger is great. But the final episode just feels rushed.. they started creating tension and drama by setting up the main bad guys against each other, and fish cart-owning mother/rebel leader kills her only son just because he is a zombie. They broadcast a cure for the zombie virus life on TV... And then it just ends... We (don't really) see a suicide bomber blowing up the morgue and then just skip 10 years just to let the characters tell us the ending?!

Episode 12 should have been episode 6 and they should've used the last half of the season just to end each storyline with a great bang. To me, it felt rushed, like they heard the show was getting canceled mid-season and had to write an ending quickly. (I'm glad it has an ending, unlike most shows these days.) But now I'm just stuck with questions about plot holes and storylines that never got the ending they deserved to get. So I'm deducting a point for that. Whatever the reason for the rushed ending is... If you're making a show or you are working at a network, at least treat the show and your audience/fans with the respect and decency it deserves. That includes creating a great ending.

In conclusion: had a great time and wasn't bored for a second. It's certainly not the best but it's better than most. This series has its flaws but it's good enough to look past those and have a great time watching. It's not a waste of your time... I mean even if it is just because it has a (not so great) ending.

Togo (2019)

Disappointingly predictable and lacking in depth

[6/10 · 2 January 2021]

As a European viewer unfamiliar with the story, watching this film was my gateway to discovering this historical tale. However, I found myself weirded out by the overwhelming praise.

Firstly, the visual aspects of the film left much to be desired. The special effects and cinematography are bad, everything looks fake. The exaggerated use of VFX in portraying natural elements like the sky and the incorporation of blurry letterboxing and digitally added pixel noise only serves to disrupt the viewing experience, rather than enhance it.

Furthermore, the soundtrack is dominated by a monotonous violin playing the same three notes for the entire movie. It felt like a repetitive backdrop that did little to evoke emotion or elevate key moments within the story.

Speaking of the story itself, I found it to be disappointingly predictable and lacking in depth. The narrative progression felt formulaic, with each scene unfolding in a manner that seemed all too familiar. Despite attempts to inject intrigue through flashbacks, these segments often felt superfluous, failing to contribute meaningfully to character development or thematic resonance.

Moreover, the characters themselves failed to leave a lasting impression. None of them possessed the complexity or depth necessary to truly engage the audience on an emotional level. As a result, I struggled to establish a meaningful connection with any of the characters, ultimately leaving me indifferent to their struggles and triumphs.

While "Togo" is by no means a poorly executed film, its widespread acclaim and high ratings seem disproportionate to its actual merits. It appears that much of the praise may stem from pre-existing admiration for the historical narrative rather than the film's execution itself. In my opinion, countless other films offer superior storytelling and entertainment value, yet they fail to receive the same level of recognition.

As such, I find it difficult to endorse the sentiment that deems it worthy of the solid 8 rating it currently holds and I can't bring myself to give it anything above a solid 6.

Pinocchio (2019)

Disappointing adaptation of the classic tale.

[2/10 · 7 November 2020]

With an abundance of scenes and an array of peculiar characters, the film struggles to find coherence or intrigue. It becomes evident that a compelling narrative is essential for any successful film, and unfortunately, Pinocchio falls short in this aspect.

The characters lack depth, often bordering on annoyance rather than engagement. The disjointed nature of the storytelling further exacerbates the issue, as it feels like a series of disconnected scenes rather than a cohesive narrative. Despite commendable efforts in cinematography, music, sets, and costumes, these elements alone cannot salvage the film from its narrative shortcomings. As such, I wouldn't recommend investing time in watching this. Garrone's direction failed to bring coherence and depth to the story, resulting in a disappointing adaptation of the classic tale. Granting it only 2 out of 10 stars.

La Révolution (2020)

Left us hanging for season that's never being made.

[8/10 · 20 October 2020]

The fact that they left us hanging for a second season isn't the only issue here (the show's been canceled by the way). It's a shame because that zombie-French-Revolution combo-they've executed it well. It's a wild concept, but they pull it off convincingly. The blend of historical drama and supernatural elements is surprisingly seamless.

While the French Revolution backdrop is awesome, the story isn't groundbreaking. But still a decent watch if you're into that period drama vibe and it makes for a perfect binge-watching experience during those cozy Netflix and Chill evenings.

And to all those nitpicking about historical accuracy, seriously, did you not read the setup? They straight up tell you they're messing with history from the get-go. If that's not your thing, why keep watching?

Reality Z (2020)

Ratings are lower then they should, had a great time!!

[7/10 · 30 June 2020]

As someone who works in the industry, I often enjoy shows that are easy to watch and offer a break from the complexity of my professional life. Reality Z fits into this category. It's the kind of series that allows you to unwind after a long day, where you can simply sit back with your snacks and let the entertainment wash over you.

Despite receiving its fair share of negative reviews, I believe there's more to Reality Z than meets the eye. Yes, it may not boast the highest production values, and those slow-motion effects are undeniably cringe-worthy - seriously, they should ditch those. But if you can overlook those flaws, you'll probably have a good time watching it.

I'd say give it a shot! Don't let the criticisms deter you. Look past its flaws, and you might discover an enjoyable experience waiting for you amidst the chaos of the zombie-infested reality show setting.

Too Hot to Handle (2020– )

What is this? And why is this on Netflix?

[1/10 · 17 April 2020]

Title says enough, leave this kind of programming to the likes of MTV or other "regular" television channels... Not in my Netflix feed please.

Mocro maffia (2018– )

Struggles with fundamental storytelling elements.

[5/10 · 1 December 2018]

Despite its promising source material, the show falls short of its potential.

From the onset, it becomes evident that "Mocro Maffia" struggles with fundamental storytelling elements. The narrative feels disjointed, lacking the cohesive structure necessary to engage viewers. Character development is notably absent, putting characters on screen that feel shallow and unrelatable. The dialogue often comes across as contrived and lacking in authenticity and it ultimately fails to deliver on the fundamental aspects of storytelling that elevate a series to international or Hollywood standards.

Nevertheless, amidst these shortcomings, the series manages to shine in one aspect: its performances. The main cast delivers commendable portrayals, injecting moments of greatness into a lackluster script. Their dedication to their roles is evident, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the show's overall mediocrity.

Ultimately, "Mocro Maffia" may appeal to a specific audience seeking a gritty portrayal of crime in the Netherlands. However, for those used to watching American or British crime shows, it may fall short of expectations.

Fight Club (1999)

Points for Creativity

[7/10 · 17 November 2018]

Coming into this title I had high expectations, this is supposed to be one of the best films ever made, right? Well... I couldn't agree less.

While I enjoyed the style, editing, and overall creativity, I couldn't shake off the empty feeling left by Fight Club's narrative pacing. The film takes what feels like an eternity to take off, and it could have been much more effective with a shorter runtime.

At around 1 hour and 30 minutes, the story might have felt more tightly woven and would have maintained its momentum.

By the halfway mark, I had a sinking feeling that the conclusion would fall flat. It's disappointing when a film with such creative potential fails to deliver a satisfying payoff, leaving viewers with a sense of disillusionment rather than enlightenment.

While I understand the appeal of Fight Club and why it resonates with so many viewers, I can't help but question its placement in the top 250 on IMDb or its status as one of the best films ever made.

Sure, it scores points for creativity and originality, but there are undoubtedly better films out there that don't receive the same level of recognition.

It seems that Fight Club's cult status has elevated it to a pedestal that it might not entirely deserve.

Nevertheless, I still believe that Fight Club is a must-watch for cinephiles, which is why I'm giving it a 7/10.