Over The Moon

#isawthatmovie

POSITIVES…

• Cute premise with a bunch of random elements and creative imagination that I found quite entertaining.

• I appreciated this animated movie’s pop-modern sensibilities and absurd sense of humor.

• It’s visually spectacular, and an incredibly colorful animated movie, that would look great on your 4K TV with HDR support.

• Has some spectacular set pieces, from the rocket ship montage, Ultraluminary concert, ping-pong challenge, to a particular chase sequence, plus more.

• Certain emotional beats worked really well.

• Excellent cast of Asian-American actors, with Cathy Ang, Robert G. Chiu, Phillipa Soo, Ken Jeong, plus more.

• The overall heartfelt thematic message is laudable for a kid’s movie.

• Rabbits. Lions. Frogs. Mooncakes. Chow Chow.

NEGATIVES…

• I hope it doesn’t bother you too much, because although this is a cartoon, there is a lot about it that are just absolute nonsense and unexplainable.

• Expect some familiar and expected plot tropes to pop up.

• The story and narrative really needed to be fleshed out more.

• While the songs aren’t bad at all, they don’t necessarily stand out or are truly memorable enough.

• Some people might take issue with this interpretation of the Chang’e legend.

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Over The Moon - watch it on NETFLIX

• Netflix animated feature brings traditional Chinese story to audiences both at home and abroad

• Over the Moon was a dying mother’s gift 

• Over the Moon’s Asian-American cast on what the movie means for them 

• Filipina-Chinese actress Cathy Ang is over the moon with her lead role in new animated film 

• Phillipa Soo on Channeling Beyonce & More 'Diva Queens' for Netflix Animated Feature 'Over the Moon'

• Over the Moon director Glen Keane explains animating Disney movie classics

• Why "Over the Moon" is the film my son and I desperately needed 

The Witches

#isawthatmovie

POSITIVES…

• Criticism of how this movie handled the adaptation and what not aside, I thought it was highly enjoyable as an excessive and exaggerated story.

• I liked the world building that establishes who and what the witches are.

• Pacing is nice and quick. Keeps things moving.

• I love that this movie has a wickedly fun sense of humor.

• Visually very colorful and the character designs of the witches are great.

• Excellent cast here. Octavia Spencer, Jahzir Bruno, Codie-Lei Eastick, Kristin Chenoweth, and a special shout-out to Anne Hathaway; who looked like she was having a blast going over the top with her performance as the Grand High Witch.

• There were several sequences that were pretty entertaining, like the “removal” scene, or the eating soup scene.

• A uniquely odd premise for a kids movie, with little bits of moments that might be too traumatic for the little ones. Basically a solid Halloween movie for children to watch.

NEGATIVES…

• As expected, there will be complaints about how this isn’t better than the 1990 movie adaptation, nor is it better than the 1983 book.

• More complaints will come up about it not being scary enough, or it being too scary for kids.

• A couple of plot conveniences and plot turns that were just a bit too silly.

• Exposition, exposition, and more exposition! So much exposition.

• I guess I’m supposed to ignore the fact that the animals in this movie look way too CG?

• Can feel a little underwhelming by the end of the film, and you might question “that’s it?!”

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The Witches - watch it on HBO MAX

• The Witches Cast Explains How To Identify A Witch 

• New Adaptation of 'The Witches' Is Almost Too Much Fun 

• 'The Witches' Is The Single Scariest Children's Film Ever Made 

• The Horror Behind THE WITCHES’ Scariest Scene

• check out the 1990 adaptation of “The Witches”

Borat Subsequent Moviefilm

#isawthatmovie

POSITIVES…

• As the sequel to “Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan,” “Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan” surprisingly lives up to its reputation.

• It’s continued mocking of sexism, racism, elitism, the patriarchy, politics, and general ignorance, is what makes this movie as fun to watch as it is. Especially if you like this kind of sense of humor.

• With the premise of the movie in mind, the whole entertainment factor is how people genuinely react to the offensive, gross, or outrageous nature of Borat; and his Daughter Tutar.

• I appreciated the set ups to try and trip up the marks, like scenes at FedEx, women’s health center, the debutante ball, CPAC, and more.

• It’s not a secret at this point, but the whole plot about the Trump Republican party, just makes this all the more entertaining.

• I admire the audaciousness of Sacha Baron Cohen and Maria Bakalova. Bravo!

• The animated movie shown in this film. Genius.

NEGATIVES…

• It’s just more of the same?

• Some of the plot is a bit too ridiculous, that it just becomes stupid.

• The character Tutar Sagdiyev can get kinda annoying.

• Considering the premise of the movie, it can get hard to believe that some of the “marks” are actually being completely authentic in their reactions, because there’s obviously a camera pointed at them.

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Borat Subsequent Moviefilm - watch it on PRIME VIDEO

• Sacha Baron Cohen Lived in Character for Five Days While Filming ‘Borat’ Sequel 

• One of the Biggest Gags in the ‘Borat 2’ Trailer Actually Made News Back in February

• Rudy Giuliani faces questions after compromising scene in new Borat film

Books of Blood

#isawthatmovie

POSITIVES…

• As this is an adaptation of Clive Barker’s work, expect some solid creepy imagery and disturbing premises in this anthology scary movie.

• Certain stories are better than others, but each one of them are intriguing enough to continue watching.

• A few excellent plot turns here and there, that were well executed.

• Good cast, led by Britt Robertson, Freda Foh Shen, Rafi Gavron, Anna Friel, and more.

• Some of the cinematography in this produced some good visuals.

• People who are fans of the Twilight Zone or Tales From The Dark Side, should appreciate some of the content in this movie.

NEGATIVES…

• Those looking for some huge epic horror-fest, will probably not enjoy this too much.

• Some might even consider this just plain boring.

• If you’ve seen enough of these kinds of stories, expect the typical cliches and familiar plot tropes that come with them.

• There were some plot turns and reveals that were just disappointing.

• Wished it was more ambitious with it’s narrative than it thinks it is.

• The conclusion might not be to everyone’s liking.

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Books of Blood - watch it on HULU

• How Hulu’s Books of Blood Movie Taps The Mind of Clive Barker

• Every Story From Clive Barker's Books Of Blood That Became A Movie

Clouds

#isawthatmovie

POSITIVES…

• Fin Argus as Zach Sobiech is charming as heck and great in his role. It was easy to get invested with his situation in this film that’s based on a true story.

• The supporting cast is excellent as well, with Sabrina Carpenter, Neve Campbell, Madison Iseman, Lil Rel Howery, and more.

• There’s a lot of great chemistry and conversations between the cast that really brings these characters to life.

• Although this story is inherently sad, I loved the fact that it’s overall a very good natured and positive movie.

• The emotions displayed in this movie felt very authentic and very moving.

• Moments. There are a lot of scenes revolving around intimate and personal moments that really stand out, and makes this movie really heartfelt.

• Considering the fact music and songs are a huge part of this film, the soundtrack is solid.

• I appreciated the final message of this story, and the overall theme. It’s worth remembering.

NEGATIVES…

• So there’s a lot of movies about people having cancer, and movies based on true stories about people having cancer, so expect some plot derivatives and cliches.

• At certain plot points, some people might think that it’s too melodramatic.

• Also at certain plot points, some people might think that there are moments that are too convenient or manipulative.

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Clouds - watch it on DISNEY+

• Clouds by Zach Sobiech

• A Firm Handshake

• The True Story Behind Disney+’s ‘Clouds:’ How Zach Sobiech Lived On Through Music

• Meet Zach Sobiech | My Last Days

• “Clouds” by Zach Sobiech again climbs iTunes charts

• Interscope Records Releases New Version of “Clouds”

• 10-Part “Behind the Clouds” Disney+ Series Announced During PaleyFest Panel

Love and Monsters

#isawthatmovie

POSITIVES…

• The opening 10 minutes which sets up the tone, premise, that includes a huge exposition dump, and a small action scene, was pretty good. It’s the first sign that this is an entertaining movie.

• Dylan O’Brien carries this movie really well. Self-deprecating humor, charming innocent demeanor, and his voice over monologues.

• Monster encounters, and the monster designs! Fun stuff.

• The dog! Gotta love the dog!

• Good supporting cast, which includes Michael Rooker, Ariana Greenblatt, Jessica Henwick, and Melanie Zanetti.

• There are some really good set pieces here of interactions, encounters, action, and montages, that I really enjoyed.

• Liked the jokes and the light-hearted self-aware nature of the whole thing.

• It’s always appreciated when there’s an apocalypse type movie that isn’t always dramatically dreary and depressing.

NEGATIVES…

• If you’re tired of apocalypse movies, and the cliches and plot tropes that usually come with them, then I don’t necessarily think this would change your mind.

• Some plot conveniences? Sure.

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Love and Monsters - watch it on VIDEO ON DEMAND

• Director Says Dylan O’Brien Was Distracted Playing With The Movie’s Dog

• Dylan O'Brien on 'Love and Monsters' and His Viral 'The Social Network' Video with Sarah Ramos

• Jessica Henwick on 'Love and Monsters,' 'The Matrix 4' and Pitching 'Jess Wick' to Keanu Reeves

The Trial of the Chicago 7

#isawthatmovie

POSITIVES…

• You know what they say, “Those who forget History, are doomed to repeat it,” and this movie is so very relevant to today.

• Even before the movie’s main title card is displayed, the quick paced direction and cleverly written screenplay by Aaron Sorkin is on full display. Amazing work.

• Bits of fun humor in a serious courtroom drama is so welcome and appreciated.

• One of the most impressive aspects about this movie is how it feels so real when watching it; despite the fact it is a true story.

• Hard not to have genuine emotional reactions from seeing certain exchanges, statements, or events, take place in this movie.

• Saying it’s a very engaging film is an understatement.

• The first day of trial gets the ball rolling in such an entertaining manner, and just gets better.

• If you’re not familiar with the true story, then expect some spectacular plot turns and reveals.

• Needless to say, what a phenomenal cast! From Eddie Redmayne, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ben Shenkman, to so many more.

• Talented cast. All of them. However, I want to make a specific shout out to Mark Rylance, Frank Langella, Sacha Baron Cohen, and Jeremy Strong. Fantastic!

NEGATIVES…

• Not every member of the Chicago 7 was given the full attention of the movie, when compared to the more prominent characters.

• Some details were glossed over or not given enough time on, for the sake of the momentum and narrative.

• Certain movie goers of a particular political side of the aisle, might accuse this movie for being biased, and panders too much.

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The Trial of the Chicago 7 - watch it on NETFLIX

• Few complaints with the ‘Chicago 7’ movie, but it was all different when I was there

• Who’s Who in The Trial of the Chicago 7: A Character Guide

• The Trial of the Chicago 7 Is a Riveting Movie. But the True Story Is Even More Dramatic

• Who was Julius Hoffman? The late judge was despised by defense teams for his bias

• Is The Trial of Chicago 7’s Richard Schultz Based on a Real Lawyer?

• Aaron Sorkin’s New Film Is the Right Story for This Moment

Black Box

#isawthatmovie

POSITIVES…

• Compelling premise, and I love the sci-fi angle.

• Setup in the beginning establishing the relationship between the Father and Daughter is fantastic. One of the best aspects of this film is the chemistry between the two.

• Great cast of actors here, from Mamoudou Athie, Phylicia Rashad, Tosin Morohunfola, Charmaine Bingwa, and Amanda Christine who steals every scene she is in.

• It was really easy to get invested with the protagonist’s predicament, and wanting to see how he pulls through this.

• There’s a moment in the story where I thought I already figured out the underlying mystery, and then it manages to surprise me after all. Kudos!

• Several plot scenes that usually just involves two people talking to each other; and that I can’t elaborate too much because spoilers, were excellent.

• Troy James was great in providing the visual creeps for this movie.

NEGATIVES…

• Major nitpick of mine… Why isn’t he using the reminder function of his smart devices??!!!

• There’s a couple of plot points that I found questionable.

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Black Box - watch it on PRIME VIDEO

• Phylicia Rashad & Mamoudou Athie Talk New Film Black Box

• What Black Box’s Stars Say About Working With The Movie’s Freaky Contortionist

Save Yourselves!

#isawthatmovie

POSITIVES…

• Love the inventive premise of this story, and the humorous nature of it.

• It’s enjoyable seeing the set-up and build up to the big plot reveal.

• Speaking of which, the scene of the big plot reveal when they figure out what’s going on. Yes.

• Kudos to Sunita Mani and John Reynolds for playing their dorky characters as well as they did.

• The bickering, interactions, ideological discussions, and just general chemistry, between Su and Jack, are a huge part of what makes this movie keep going.

• The main antagonists for this story is just absolutely delightfully scary in a very entertaining way. All the scenes with them just puts a huge smile on my face.

• Part of the charm is that there’s a believability to Su and Jack’s actions and reactions to their situation, and all that fun plot development that goes with that. Then imagine what you would do if you were in their predicament. Has to be better than them…

• There’s a thematic lesson to this whole story, and I think it’s absolutely worth learning.

NEGATIVES…

• Movie doesn’t really get going until about the 15 minutes mark. Just put up with the character introductions and plot set-up until then?

• There are those who would call the lead characters quirky pretentious millennials. If you don’t like quirky pretentious millennials, then maybe this might not be for you.

• Moments of ineptitude can get annoying.

• Some of the more stupid stuff are… stupid.

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Save Yourselves! - watch it on VIDEO ON DEMAND

• Legion M join forces with Bleecker Street for the release of the alien sci-fi comedy Save Yourselves!

• Leonard & Jessie Maltin interview the filmmakers of SAVE YOURSELVES!

• Sunita Mani & John Reynolds Interview

• No, the furry alien invaders in Save Yourselves! are not tribbles. They're worse.

• The Save Yourselves! Filmmakers on Their Version of the End of the World

Hubie Halloween

#isawthatmovie

POSITIVES…

• The running joke about dodging.

• The swiss army knife of Thermos.

• The huge all star cast of actors look like they were at least having fun making this movie. Like Steve Buscemi, Tim Meadows, Maya Rudolph, and June Squibb.

• The lesson of this movie… well, it’s got a good message to teach, I’ll give it that.

NEGATIVES…

• The mumbling voice that Adam Sandler uses for his character. Really?

• Running bit about Hubie scaring easily is just unnecessarily annoying.

• Harley Quinn cosplay joke should have been funny, but it’s not.

• There were several clever plot reveals that are just wasted on this movie.

• The shirt gag? Yeah. I didn’t think that was funny either.

• In general, there were so many tired, basic, and unfunny jokes in this.

• Way too many mean people in this movie for my taste.

• Violet Valentine is the most poorly written character in this movie, and it’s kinda embarrassing.

• The conclusion is just gag inducing. It meant well, but c’mon now.

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Hubie Halloween - watch it on NETFLIX

• Adam Sandler talks his shift back to comedy with 'Hubie Halloween,' pays touching tribute to late costar Cameron Boyce

• SNL Alumni Maya Rudolph and Tim Meadows on Playing with the Comedy-Horror Genre in Hubie Halloween