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Reviews
The Matrix Resurrections (2021)
DONT watch this after binging the original trilogy
As I stated in the title, the biggest mistake I made was binging the original three before wrapping it up with this. Of course, Keanu and Carrie are great (with the little they're given) but compared to the previous movies this was like watching a marvel movie. Don't get me wrong, I'm one of the few who will still be at the first showing for something in the MCU, but those movies have their place, and then there's the matrix. This movie starts off with cringe "modern" humor that really just does not land. Like at all. Then it carries on througout. The entire plot never made me feel there was anything truly at stake. There was hardly any fighting and the cinematography was pretty average. Since I just finished Revolutions, this was a MAJOR step down. Revolutions had that final battle and it was like watching an anime fight. It was bombastic, it was beautiful, it was just so well done. Then there was this where Neo couldn't even remember how to fly "don't worry they made it into another marvel joke." 90% of the action was shooting, and it wasn't even that cool. I absolutely love the other 3 movies, but this one just felt like it was made by a YouTuber with the budget of, well, a YouTuber. It was an entertaining movie. Although I did split it up into 2 nights because I got tired (which I only do if I'm not really immersed with the plot), but if you're going to reboot a classic like the matrix, make sure you do it right. This was not it.
Spectral (2016)
An entertaining movie, because that's what movies are for.
It's not some extremely high budget, blockbuster, mind blowing, artistic vision brought to life movie, but it's entertaining while you sit and watch it. Some moments will have you giggle and roll your eyes, some moments will have you saying "oh dang that was cool." It's a one and done, but it's one you likely won't regret if you just have the expectation of simply watching a movie to watch it. People today expect wayyyy too much from movies other than simple entertainment. It's got an interesting mix of military, with dystopian sci fi. And don't forget the ghosts. If you've ever found yourself craving an incredibly random mix of black hawk down and ghost busters, this is the movie for you. Whoever you are.
The Mandalorian: Chapter 22: Guns for Hire (2023)
The Mandalorian is not always Din
This episode was rather weak, but still interesting. Nothing against Lizzo or Jack Black but their characters kind of removed me from the universe while on screen. Otherwise it was not terrible, just a filler episode. Also, many don't seem to grasp that the title of the show isn't always referring to Mando himself. Sometimes it's Bo, sometimes even Grogu.
Either way, this was probably the weakest episode of the entire series. Had a real "Disney" vibe to it which is what this series has been pretty good about avoiding up until now. As I've already said it wasn't terrible, it just felt out of place and only had a couple of good moments. This episode alone put Andor as my new #1 favorite SW series.
The Hurt Locker (2008)
Great movie about a character, more than a war movie
This is one of the few movies I've actually come to review because it seems to be so misunderstood. Maybe there are inaccuracies, but it is a movie. How many war movies are 100% accurate to how war really works. Being the kid of a combat medic, and experiencing how multiple deployments affected his mental health, this movie got to me. It's a study on a man who found what he loves, more than his family, more than his child. How can he function in the real world when he has been through everything he has, and finds a thrill in doing it? He decides not to. He goes back do it some more. Sure, the camera is a bit shaky, as with most war movies not made in 1960. But being that I'm not 70 years old that doesn't bother me. I've come back to watch this movie at least once a year. It was one of the first I purchased for my collection after moving out of my moms house nearly 13 years ago. Renner's portrayal in this movie is one of his best in my opinion. Very underrated actor. I'm a huge MCU fan but will say til I die this is my favorite Jeremy renner movie.
Ghost of Tsushima (2020)
A little of every game in the best way possible
I've played every new release as it comes out for years and this is the most fun I've had in a story driven single player experience for a while. You will see many people comparing it to other titles and they have the right to. When it comes to some mechanics and features, it obviously draws inspiration form other games. However, it does a perfect job of doing so. The stealth/assassinations are satisfying, the crafting system is easy and intuitive, the combat only gets better as the game goes on, and the customization is amazing while staying true to ancient Japanese culture. I've played through the main storyline which at times was tear jerking, yet action packed. Definitely one of those games that makes you feel like the star of a movie. Not to mention feeling like a hero among the people the more your legend grows. All around this game is worth a try. Don't let its comparison to assassins creed make you avoid it. It was a fresh experience through and through and I loved every second of it. Now we just need story expansions or something!
Captain Marvel (2019)
Negative press gives low expectations
After hearing all the controversy and plans to boycott (white male here), it was hard to have an open mind going into the movie. But I was entertained and enjoyed it quite a bit.
Without spoiling anything, my biggest gripes have to do with a couple of pretty big plot points I think are a complete waste, and are pretty disappointing, especially for real comic book fans. Brie's acting isn't the best either. When it comes to characters such as Iron Man and Captain America, it's hard to imagine anyone but RDJ or Chris Evans portraying them, and even the lower tier heroes' actors sell me every time they're on screen. But with Captain Marvel it's hard for me to buy this performance, especially since I am going to have to buy it at least another 6 times.
That's not to say that i didn't enjoy the movie. In my opinion, it's a rather unique story set apart from the traditional MCU formula and it works. I could have done without so much humor, but 3 out of 5 jokes tend to land on their feet.
The final act had scenes that actually gave me goosebumps and I have to say, may be some of my favorite scenes of any marvel stand alone film.
Overall, I think it's worth seeing regardless of what you're hearing news outlets report especially if you're a fan of the MCU.