Archived: Rate the last movie you saw.
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The Bodyguard (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – Kevin Costner has always been a favorite of mine, and though this isn’t one of his best films, he’s pretty good as the super serious ex-Secret Service bodyguard hired to protect a fictional diva, played relatively well by Whitney Houston. The films falls victim to some predictable clichés in the romance department, but there’s some decent interplay between the two leads. I also thought the ending was a bit ludicrous and unnecessary; the film could have had a better ending out at the cabin. In summation: Kevin Costner elevates what could be a tiresome action thriller into a decent film.
6/10
Get the Gringo (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – Wow, pleasantly surprised by this one. I picked this up on a friend’s recommendation when I found it in the $5 Blu-ray bin at my local Wal-mart. It’s something of a return to form for Mel Gibson, and though it’s not terribly original, it’s well acted and the plot/story is actually pretty well done. I can’t really come up with a lot that it’s similar to, though. It’s not really a pure action movie, and there’s a certain dark comedy feel to it as well. The society represented at the Mexican prison is also really interesting and makes for a great setting to the story. In summation: this relatively quietly produced and distributed film represents a solid return to form for Mel Gibson. Fans of his will find a lot to enjoy here.
7/10
12 Rounds (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – Not much here I haven’t seen before, pretty standard action fluff. I think when they developed this and The Marine; they had high hopes for Cena’s career, especially given The Rock’s success in film. However, Cena lacks the same ability, but he’s not all bad. I find him to be competent in films like this, where the weakest link isn’t his acting. Reny Harlin, who’s been mostly average to below average with all of his films, does his best rendition of a Tony Scott film here, with mostly negative results. In summation: not a completely bad action film, but it fails to deliver anything original, and mostly is just destined to slip into obscurity. Dime a dozen type action film, mostly.
4/10
The Family (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – I was a little apprehensive about this one, given the poor reception it received from critics, and most everyone I’ve talked to about it viewed it in a similar light. I have to admit, though, I was pleasantly surprised. The common denominators as far as complaints go are the shifts in tone it experiences throughout. While I do admit it has a bit of an identity crisis, I found the dark comedy to be pretty enjoyable. In summation: The Family probably tries to fuse too many different genres, but a great cast, and some dark humor make it a solid watch.
6.5/10
Kick-ass 2 (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – I thought Kick-ass was outstanding and one of the more unique superhero/vigilante films to come out in quite some time. Obviously a sequel had to be created, but man is it a huge step down in quality. The story bounces around way too much, and other than Jim Carrey and one excellent line of dialogue, there was absolutely nothing I could take away from it. The first film had some genuinely good humor mixed in with the violence, but that’s also missing here. In summation: a very weak sequel to one of the more original, fresh movies of the 2010s.
4/10
Brothers (Blu-ray, 2nd viewing) – I often think about my future and some aspirations I have about a career in the military, but movies like this make me question that. Tobey McGuire turns in an excellent performance as a severely damaged POW; he’s never really played a character that requires him to become this unhinged. Gyllenhaal and Portman are also as good as always. I think it could have been a little longer, but other than that I have no real complaints. In summation: this good drama is bolstered by strong performances from the trio of leads and a smart, timely message.
7.5/10
Ides of March (Blu-ray, 2nd viewing) – This is the image of a film that is dry, but NOT boring. As someone who’s not really that interested in politics, I enjoyed it thoroughly, possibly even more this time. If you’re cynical when it comes to these topics, it should play right to your thoughts and feelings about most politicians. From top to bottom, this is about as strong of an ensemble cast you can ask for. In summation: terrific acting and an excellent plot makes this my favorite political intrigue film.
8/10
Abduction (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – It’s not that uncommon for me to watch and enjoy movies that have been bashed by critics. This is definitely one of those instances. I’ll be the first to admit that there’s absolutely nothing here you haven’t seen before, and there have been many movies that are more successful within the genre. However, despite the lack of originality, I found this to be an enjoyable, entertaining action thriller. Sure, there are some contrivances in the plot and it’s pretty predictable overall, but it moves at a brisk pace with some solid action sequences. In summation: a predictable, fairly bland action thriller that is competent enough in all regards and entertains the viewer.
6.5/10
The 6th Day (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – It’s one of those movies that has a really good premise, but is lacking a little in the execution department. I think this had a chance to be a decently heady sci-fi actioner, but unfortunately it’s a typical Arnie fest, not that that’s an entirely bad thing. The idea of cloning is a morally grey topic, and unfortunately this movie turns to humor more often than depth; I guess I was hoping for something a little more dark and brooding. His films have a certain draw to them, but this could have transcended that mold. In summation: a tweener film; not Arnie’s best film, but also not his worst.
6/10
Big Trouble in Little China (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – I’m finally getting around to seeing this. I’ve caught pieces of TV before, but never the whole thing in one sitting. Overall, it’s pretty cool. It’s way over the top and lacks much development, but is entertaining from start to finish. I really, really like Russell’s character; he feels like a slightly less competent and more egotistical Han Solo. I was also pretty impressed by the visuals/CGI, especially when you consider the film is 28 years old. In summation: this crazy, absurdly over the top action film represents another strong pairing of Carpenter and Russell.
6.5/10
Return to House on Haunted Hill (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – I haven’t seen the original, but this is made partly as a standalone film. They catch you up on the events enough so that you’re not really caused any harm. There’s sufficient back-story here, and it moves along well enough in its very brief 75 minutes. I wouldn’t say there was much in the way of real horror; there are some fairly gruesome scenes, but that’s about it. As is the case with most all horror films, there’s nothing here you haven’t seen before and pretty much all of the characters are void of any development. In summation: not a terrible time waster for those who can tolerate below average horror films, but it’s a largely unnecessary and forgettable haunted house flick.
3/10
All is Lost (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – It’s hard to imagine being tasked with holding the screen all on your own, but Redford does an exceptional job. I think this would make a good companion piece for fans of Cast Away and for this week’s big release, Gravity. There’s no a lot of exposition here, but it’s obvious that he’s a man who’s living with some regrets, probably poor relations with his kids and/or ex-wife. There are some moments of triumph interspersed with the lows, and the ending is totally up to your own interpretation. In summation: Robert Redford is exceptional in this solid story about the trials the man lost at sea must face.
6.5/10
Crazy, Stupid, Love (Blu-ray, 2nd viewing) – The Office officially made Steve Carrell one of my favorite comedic actors, and this feature him playing an equally uncool and socially confused man. The antics he faces from Gosling’s character are easily the strongest feature in the film, as is the confrontation in the backyard towards the end of the film. In summation: a strong cast and some believability elevate what could have been a pretty tired, predictable romantic comedy.
6.5/10
Grown Ups 2 (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – I’m generally a little more forgiving when it comes to Adam Sandler, especially his more recent work. I thought Grown Ups was pretty good, not that it does anything especially well and it’s certainly not original. The sequel isn’t on par with it, but it’s not all bad. I do have to give some props to Milo Ventimiglia and Taylor Lautner who play the ring leaders in a local fraternity. The interactions between their characters and the main stars are by far the best thing about the movie. In summation: hopefully Sandler will shelf this series and focus on something a little more original and funny, however, this isn’t the complete failure some critics made it out to be.
4/10
Fight Club (Blu-ray, 2nd viewing) – This is probably Fincher’s most popular movie, but probably falls somewhere in the middle for me as far as his work goes. It’s much, much better on the first viewing, for obvious reasons; whereas Zodiac, Se7en, and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo continue to be strong with repeat viewings. There’s nothing inherently wrong with the film, it’s just the main draw is the kick in the nuts you get towards the end. Once you realize all of that the second time, it loses some of that kick. In summation: a slick, thought provoking film from one of my favorite directors, with a set of excellent performances from Edward Norton and Brad Pitt
7.5/10
Just kidding, we <3 your reviews u7sses!
Go see Robocop so I can finally read a review I trust.
Also, I am going to do 2000 situps and wear a big red towel for a cape to see the 300 sequel, want to come with?
Not that bad of a movie, but I honestly haven't watched a Jason Statham movie that I didn't like. Could have gone with a better villian then James Franco, BUT....could have found worse. It was interesting to watch him play a bad guy though.
Quote by Meta:
Just kidding, we <3 your reviews u7sses!
Go see Robocop so I can finally read a review I trust.
Also, I am going to do 2000 situps and wear a big red towel for a cape to see the 300 sequel, want to come with?
I want to see Robocop, but I may have missed the boat with my local theaters. They normally dump that sort of movie pretty quickly. It'll be a day one purchase on Blu-ray, though.
I have to listen to a lot of bashing on the 300 sequel from my friends, but I'm actually excited for it; can't go wrong with some gratuitous sex and violence, my friend.
Quote by U7ysses S Gr4nt:
Big Trouble in Little China (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – I’m finally getting around to seeing this. I’ve caught pieces of TV before, but never the whole thing in one sitting. Overall, it’s pretty cool. It’s way over the top and lacks much development, but is entertaining from start to finish. I really, really like Russell’s character; he feels like a slightly less competent and more egotistical Han Solo. I was also pretty impressed by the visuals/CGI, especially when you consider the film is 28 years old. In summation: this crazy, absurdly over the top action film represents another strong pairing of Carpenter and Russell.
6.5/10
I guess age affects the way we rate movies this old. I saw this movie when I was 11-12 years old. Along with The Goonies it was my favorite adventure movie ever (not topping Indy, of course). I saw it a couple of years ago and found it fun as hell but would not give it a 10, like I did so many years ago.
Good memories, though.
Quote by Revelation1318:
Quote by U7ysses S Gr4nt:
Big Trouble in Little China (Blu-ray, 1st viewing) – I’m finally getting around to seeing this. I’ve caught pieces of TV before, but never the whole thing in one sitting. Overall, it’s pretty cool. It’s way over the top and lacks much development, but is entertaining from start to finish. I really, really like Russell’s character; he feels like a slightly less competent and more egotistical Han Solo. I was also pretty impressed by the visuals/CGI, especially when you consider the film is 28 years old. In summation: this crazy, absurdly over the top action film represents another strong pairing of Carpenter and Russell.
6.5/10
I guess age affects the way we rate movies this old. I saw this movie when I was 11-12 years old. Along with The Goonies it was my favorite adventure movie ever (not topping Indy, of course). I saw it a couple of years ago and found it fun as hell but would not give it a 10, like I did so many years ago.
Good memories, though.
Absolutely. I think about that a lot when I watch new releases like The Avengers, The Dark Knight, Man of Steel, etc..; how will these films I love be perceived when I'm 10-20 years older?
I think with movies like Big Trouble that are heavily reliant on special effects, watching them way after their release hampers the enjoyment I can get out of them. I didn't enjoy Evil Dead & Evil Dead II for that reason.
As an aside, I never regret watching something I give at least a 6.
Quote by U7ysses S Gr4nt:
Quote by Revelation1318:
I guess age affects the way we rate movies this old. I saw this movie when I was 11-12 years old. Along with The Goonies it was my favorite adventure movie ever (not topping Indy, of course). I saw it a couple of years ago and found it fun as hell but would not give it a 10, like I did so many years ago.
Good memories, though.
Absolutely. I think about that a lot when I watch new releases like The Avengers, The Dark Knight, Man of Steel, etc..; how will these films I love be perceived when I'm 10-20 years older?
I think with movies like Big Trouble that are heavily reliant on special effects, watching them way after their release hampers the enjoyment I can get out of them. I didn't enjoy Evil Dead & Evil Dead II for that reason.
As an aside, I never regret watching something I give at least a 6.
I'm the complete opposite. Watching Evil Dead and Big Trouble just makes me think how shitty movies are now days. Especially horrid remakes. I don't think these movies relied on special affects as much as the film style of the time period. Especially 80's and early 90's movies.
(I can't wrap my head around you giving Big Trouble and The Bodyguard the same score. Whitney Houston was not even remotely good at acting IMO)
I also don't subscribe to the "Aged special effects" diminishing a films greatness theory. If that held true not as many people would prefer the original three Star Wars movies over the piss poor sequels.
Evil Dead's appeal had absolutely nothing to do with good special effects I can assure you.
Quote by Vermillion Haze:
Quote by U7ysses S Gr4nt:
Absolutely. I think about that a lot when I watch new releases like The Avengers, The Dark Knight, Man of Steel, etc..; how will these films I love be perceived when I'm 10-20 years older?
I think with movies like Big Trouble that are heavily reliant on special effects, watching them way after their release hampers the enjoyment I can get out of them. I didn't enjoy Evil Dead & Evil Dead II for that reason.
As an aside, I never regret watching something I give at least a 6.
I'm the complete opposite. Watching Evil Dead and Big Trouble just makes me think how shitty movies are now days. Especially horrid remakes. I don't think these movies relied on special affects as much as the film style of the time period. Especially 80's and early 90's movies.
(I can't wrap my head around you giving Big Trouble and The Bodyguard the same score. Whitney Houston was not even remotely good at acting IMO)
I also don't subscribe to the "Aged special effects" diminishing a films greatness theory. If that held true not as many people would prefer the original three Star Wars movies over the piss poor sequels.
Evil Dead's appeal had absolutely nothing to do with good special effects I can assure you.
In fairness, they were 6.5 and 6, respectively. Big Trouble was a step above it.
I think I may have misspoke a bit. When I watch a movie like Evil Dead wayyy after it was released, the special effects are so bad, they really diminish my ability to enjoy it. I think for people who have watched those sort of movies much earlier, nostalgia plays a big role in their own enjoyment.
That was the parallel I was drawing to the Avengers, IM, MoS, etc; will kids 20-30 years from now be severely disappointed in them as I have been with these older films? Not sure, I guess we'll see.
Marvel never disappoints, some will disagree and say Daredevil was crap but I still think the Directors cut is worth it. This was a very good sequel or you can say like 9 or 10th one in the Avengers series. After seeing Avengers i became a big fan of Loki & boy does he pick up where he was in Avengers. Christopher Eccleston as Malekith. He really likes to pick & choose what he does from the Doctor to Destro, a talented kinda under the radar actor. Oh Stellan Skarsgård hilarious. Mjost i ever wrote all over the place but for once i didnt leave a small review.
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