Friday, December 31, 2021
The Matrix: Resurrections (2021)
Even for a hardcore Matrix fan, this is a difficult film to describe. Other critics didn’t cover it on release day, and still haven’t covered it. That’s not to say it’s bad, it just asks a lot of its audience.
Thursday, December 9, 2021
No Time to Die (2021)
This is the kind of movie that you might like if you only watch action movies. A better example is Angel Has Fallen (2019), a sequel in the Has Fallen series with some genuinely tense moments. I prefer movies where the protagonist has weaknesses rather than being an indestructible superhero. This latest Bond’s only weakness is the writing, and it’s a fatal flaw.
Saturday, November 13, 2021
Dune (2021)
While I can’t give this film a glowing recommendation, it’s interesting. Take a piss before you watch it; this is a long one.
Friday, October 22, 2021
Rent-A-Pal (2020)
There are three categories of horror: Jason movies, Freddy movies, and Wil Wheaton movies. Jon Stevenson’s feature directorial debut falls into the “psychological thriller” category of horror movies, casting Star Trek’s most-hated child star opposite a very sad character who may be unstable. It’s less about media and more about interpersonal relationships, which is odd considering the premise of an “interactive” self-help VHS tape.
Friday, September 17, 2021
Face/Off (1997)
If you were confused by my Evangelion critique, this film may offer low-brow thrills closer to your tastes. John Woo is the kind of filmmaker who makes art for the ignorant masses yet somehow manages to get near-universal acclaim. Hong Kong’s Tarantino.
In this film, John Woo pays homage to himself. It’s one of those movies that filmmakers say is “like a movie”, whatever that means. All movies are movies, but this one is stylish and self-gratifying enough to suggest its director knows he’s awesome. Then add Nicolas Cage and John Travolta, and your over-the-top schlock is guaranteed.