Untitled Horror Movie

POSITIVES…

  • Don’t underestimate this quarantine lock-down made movie that’s mostly just a Facetime call. It’s creepy and scary when it needs to be, and it’s genuinely funny for it’s premise. 

  • Love the self-awareness and the very meta vibe to the whole thing. 

  • While you might already have an idea where this story is going, it still manages to be enjoyable seeing how it plays out in this film. 

  • The excellent cast that includes Luke Baines, Claire Holt, Timothy Granaderos, Emmy Raver-Lampman, Darren Barnet, and Katherine McNamara, all deserves kudos for their performances in this movie. 

  • A lot of what worked with this movie is the chemistry and the interactions between the characters. 

  • The different archetypes of the characters actually adds an entertaining dynamic to the story.  

  • We complain when characters do stupid things in horror movies, but it somehow makes sense and seems believable for this film. 

  • Despite the fact you’re mostly just watching a video group call on a movie screen, the editing and the pacing, actually helps keep the visuals engaging enough to look at.  

  • Pop culture references! This uses them effectively. 

  • “I was listening to Kevin Smith on the Joe Rogan podcast.” 

  • “Nothing bad ever happens in Pasadena.” 

  • “That’s kinda long for a hashtag.”

NEGATIVES…

  • Yes, this is another movie in the “screenlife” genre that’s basing a whole movie on a video group chat. It’s not for everybody. 

  • Shaky cam warning. It doesn’t happen all the time, but it does occasionally happen. 

  • You might find it annoying how stereotypically “Hollywood” the characters are in this movie. 

  • Comedy is subjective, so I would say that not all the jokes hit their landing. Especially the meta inside-jokes. 

  • I wouldn’t say that it’s an actual scary movie either. 

  • There are some derivatives and familiarities to the story.

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Untitled Horror Movie - watch it on VIDEO ON DEMAND

Wish Dragon

POSITIVES…

  • Premise is very familiar, but is executed so well that I really enjoyed it’s earnestness and commitment to it’s story about a peasant boy, the girl he likes, and a dragon that grants three wishes.

  • Has a simple but cute and pleasing looking animation style.

  • Liked the silly lighthearted comedy.

  • Enjoyed the visual gags.

  • Not above toilet humor!

  • Has some excellent sequences from the chase scenes, the intro montage, a birthday party, to a dragon battle, etc...

  • It’s got good action set pieces, as well as good fight choreography too.

  • Jimmy Wong is solid as Din, and Natasha Liu Bordizzo is awesome as Li Na. How could you not root for Din and Li Na?!

  • Long Zhu, as voiced by John Cho, is very entertaining. The things he says and suggests!

  • Shout out to Constance Wu, who plays Din’s Mom.

  • Love the very Asian cultural touches to the story and the visuals.

  • Appreciated the themes and lessons this story has to offer.

NEGATIVES…

  • Very very very very very similar to a particular animated Disney movie starring Robin Williams….

  • Speaking of that very similar movie, are we seriously going through the same plot progression too?!

  • Yes, it’s very derivative and familiar.

  • Plot conveniences? Sure.

  • There are even some big unexplained yet very relevant plot holes that we’re all just supposed to ignore?!

  • Main antagonist is also very underwritten.

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Wish Dragon - watched it on NETFLIX

In The Heights

POSITIVES…

  • Great movie musical with a premise and narrative that focuses on multiple characters of immigrant families in a very specific block in New York. 

  • Story feels very grounded and relatable, that’s sentimental and inspirational. 

  • Anthony Ramos is an excellent lead to a fantastic ensemble cast that includes Gregory Diaz IV, Corey Hawkins, Olga Merediz, Jimmy Smits, Daphne Rubin-Vega, and many more. 

  • Specific shout out to Leslie Grace and Melissa Barrera who both just absolutely shine and are spectacular in this. 

  • You know that a huge reason to watch this movie is for all those big song and dance numbers, and they are pretty awesome. 

  • Really loved several of the song sequences, like “Benny’s Dispatch,” “Breathe,” “Pacienca y Fe,” and “Carnaval del Barrio.” 

  • While this film is based on a stage musical, I give all the kudos in the world to Director Jon M Chu for not making it look like it’s just a stage musical on screen. Good use of Washington Heights as the actual location for the movie. 

  • I appreciated how this story dealt with culture and social political themes. 

  • This is a movie for those struggling against all odds trying to chase their dreams. 

  • “The scratch on the record is my favorite part.”

NEGATIVES…

  • Songs that are predominantly upbeat fast rapping might make it hard for some viewers to keep up with the story telling. 

  • Hate to admit it, but there aren't enough catchy songs for me here. 

  • Hope you don’t mind that they don’t translate all the languages spoken or sung here.

  • You know what, it’s got slow parts too that impedes the momentum of the narrative. 

  • There are two romantic plots here, and I honestly didn’t care that much for one of them. Maybe it was just too cliche for my taste.

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In The Heights - watched it on HBO MAX

Infinite

POSITIVES…

  • Say what you will about the movie, but I won’t deny that I genuinely like the idea for the overall premise. 

  • Gotta give it to Director Antoine Fuqua for all the outrageous action set pieces in this film. I more or less enjoyed seeing them. 

  • The gleeful wanton destruction that is demonstrated in this movie is pretty entertaining. 

  • Pacing and plot progression is generally quick. 

  • Mark Wahlberg is good at playing the same type of character that he always plays in these action flicks. 

  • Jason Mantzoukas essentially playing Jason Mantzoukas. 

  • Chiwetel Ejiofor is the highlight for me here however. He is unabashedly chewing the scenery, and looks like he is having fun with how over the top his character is. 

  • There’s a cool shotgun and there’s a Japanese sword. Nifty weapons and gadgets here. 

  • “Spiritual equivalent of “better luck next time.”

NEGATIVES…

  • Those outrageous action set pieces? Could be seen as way too cartoony. 

  • Plot really leans into your familiar action movie plot tropes and cliches. 

  • So much clunky exposition. 

  • Had so many obvious questions about the plot and premise. So many illogical things. 

  • I shouted “That is so stupid, dumb, and unbelievable!” more times than I probably should have. 

  • Could have used more Dylan O’Brien. 

  • Take a shot whenever you see the infinity symbol. They really really like that symbol in this movie.

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Infinite - watched it on PARAMOUNT+

Flashback

POSITIVES…

  • Lives up to the title of the movie in a way that is quite interesting and unique.

  • Fascinating and mysterious plot should give you some incentive to keep watching.

  • The first act should pique your curiosity. The second act should grab your attention. The third act is absolutely a love it or hate it thing. Either way. Writer-Director Christopher MacBride is undeniably giving you a fresh experience in a usually derivative movie genre.

  • Conclusion should definitely give you something to think about.

  • Movie is a bit cerebral and philosophical, with lots to say about memories, nostalgia, perception, time, life, and desires.

  • There’s some sentimentality in a certain plot point that I appreciated.

  • Dylan O’Brien is very good in this. He is a huge reason as to why the movie is worth checking out.

  • Excellent use of quick edit scenes that serves the narrative really well.

  • The illustrations. Really liked those.

  • Nice reminder for kids to take drugs responsibly.

  • Maika Monroe as Cindy Williams is there for those of you with “tsundere” fantasies.

NEGATIVES…

  • I can see people saying that this is actually pretty dumb and just pretentious.

  • Actors in their late 20s playing high school students…

  • The slow methodical pacing is not going to be for everyone.

  • Extended strobe effects scenes is something to warn you about.

  • Sebastian character is just too much.

  • Cindy Williams is just too underwritten of a character.

  • Felt like the movie also didn’t do Hannah Gross’ character of Karen the justice it only thinks it gave her.

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Flashback - watched it on VIDEO ON DEMAND

The Water Man

POSITIVES…

  • This is a solid coming of age type story with an adventurous inventive element to it. 

  • It’s a family friendly movie, but it isn’t afraid to tackle heavier topics involving life and death. 

  • I liked the animated graphic novel bits here and there. 

  • Excellent work by the young lead actors. Lonnie Chavis and Amiah Miller as Gunner and Jo deserve the kudos. 

  • Part of the hook of this movie are the interactions between Gunner and Jo, and following their journey in this story. 

  • Good adult cast too. David Oyelowo, Rosario Dawson, Alfred Molina, Maria Bello, and several more. 

  • Narrative has some nice pleasant surprises to offer you. 

  • Worthwhile thematic lessons here. 

  • Fantastic colorful cinematography throughout. 

  • The kid has a Japanese sword. That’s pretty cool.

NEGATIVES…

  • Still has some familiar plot tropes and cliches. 

  • Plot conveniences too. Certain story beats were just glossed over. 

  • I can just imagine some people not liking the Amos and Jo characters that much. 

  • Leans on some adventurous elements for the premise, but the movie itself could have showcased more adventurous situations than it actually did. 

  • Bugs!

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The Water Man - watched it on VIDEO ON DEMAND

The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It

POSITIVES…

  • You go into a “The Conjuring” movie for the scares, but you really end up sticking around because of Patrick Wilson’s and Vera Farmiga’s Ed & Lorraine Warren respectively. This one is no exception. Gotta love those two. 

  • Good work by the supporting cast as well, which includes Ruari O'Connor, Sarah Catherine Hook, Eugenie Bondurant, Julian Hilliard, and John Noble. 

  • Premise for this installment, plays off more like a detective crime mystery thriller, which is a nice change of pace to the franchise. 

  • Fascinating plot point of bringing the court of law into The Conjuring universe. 

  • Plot progression and narrative is engaging and interesting. I don’t know how you wouldn’t be compelled to see this story through. 

  • Opening scary set piece was an incredible beginning to this movie. 

  • It still knows how to properly build tense anticipations for the scares. 

  • There’s also this cool special visual effect found during the third act. 

  • Little bits of levity and humor here and there were unexpectedly welcome. 

  • “Introduce you to Annabelle. If you’re not convinced, we’ll butt out.” 

  • Took a while to get to the underlying theme of the story, but I genuinely appreciated it when it was revealed what that was.

NEGATIVES…

  • Probably the least scary installment so far. 

  • Some unbelievably improbable moments here and there. 

  • May just not be as remarkable of a movie as you wished it would be. 

  • Arguably too visually stylish at times, that makes you forget that this is a movie in The Conjuring franchise. 

  • Rats.

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The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It - watched it on HBO MAX

Oslo

POSITIVES…

  • As an intellectual political historical thriller, this is such a relevant film to see when considering current events.

  • Premise revolves around several meetings that will literally change the world, and this movie captures that importance in full effect. 

  • Part of the entertainment in watching this are the twists and turns on where the narrative takes this story to. 

  • Tonal shifts that will throw you on a loop is perfectly demonstrated by a scene about telling jokes and eating waffles. 

  • That “Declaration Of Principles” montage. 

  • Introduction of Uri Savir is an amazing turning point. 

  • Then the introduction of Joel Singer is also another huge game changer. 

  • For a movie that’s primarily people talking or yelling at each other, this still manages to be quite the gripping story to watch. 

  • Ensemble cast is amazing, and includes Ruth Wilson, Andrew Scott, Salim Dau, Jeff Wilbusch, Waleed Zuaiter, Doval'e Glickman, Igal Naor, plus more. 

  • Appreciated how this film demonstrates the power of diplomacy. 

  • “Garbage and Taxes is what a government does.”

NEGATIVES…

  • Not exactly the most blockbusters of movies. 

  • It’s basically a talking heads film, which is not for everybody. 

  • Plot shortcuts. Didn’t appreciate them, but I do understand the need for them. 

  • Felt like it kept us in the dark at times, for scenes that I expected to be privy to.

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Oslo - watched it on HBO MAX

PLAN B

POSITIVES…

  • As a rather mature teen comedy that leads into crazy situations, this was actually quite the entertaining movie. 

  • Because of this movie, you should add Sunny and Lupe, played wonderfully by Kuhoo Verma and Victoria Moroles respectively, into the distinguished list of memorable cinematic comedic duos, like Harold & Kumar, or Bill & Ted, before them. 

  • There are some funny and outrageous scenes and encounters to be found in this. 

  • “Indian Mafia.” 

  • Loved the clever witty lines in this movie. “Girls are horse f****** and I haven’t even had my first kiss.” “Who plays hockey in a cardigan.” “...weirded out by the phallic nature of corn.” 

  • If that isn’t obvious, there is some very very frank dialogue in this, that I appreciated. 

  • There’s also that sex scene. LOL. How appropriately on point for this movie. 

  • Movie has some good surprises plot wise, but also character wise. Like Michael Provost as Hunter, who is an absolute delight in the role. 

  • The commentaries on social issues here are to be commended. 

  • That abstinence educational video was such a hoot and a half. I mean sex euphamisms via vehicular terminologies. Hilarious. 

  • Christian trap hip-hop music.

NEGATIVES…

  • It’s not always a laugh-a-riot of a movie like you probably would have wanted it to be. 

  • Doesn’t completely maintain that fun energetic tone from the first act, during the next two acts of the story. 

  • A little too on the nose with men wanting to sexually exploit women, a couple of times too much in this movie. 

  • Isn’t showing mean teenagers just such a tired old cliche by now? 

  • Plot conveniences and familiar plot tropes still show up as expected. 

  • Vomit.

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PLAN B - watched it on HULU

Cruella

POSITIVES…

  • As a reinvention of the Cruella DeVille character, I was pleasantly surprised at how good this turned out. 

  • Movie is also not afraid to have a dark, wicked, naughty, tone throughout. So parents just know that it may not be for kids at all. 

  • While it doesn’t lean heavily on comedy, there are several comedic moments throughout to keep you entertained. 

  • Narrative is fantastic and engaging. Incorporates a lot of good pacing, editing, one-take tracking shots, plus all those great montages. 

  • Has lots of amazing scenes, from the opening act, the black & white ball, to the final set piece during the third act, and all those scheming heists sequences. Not to mention the conversations Estella has with her Mum. Loved those. 

  • Lots of witty and clever lines of dialogue, that only enhances the scenes they are in even more. “Fabrics! Can you get me a red like that.” “Sorry. Slight tone delivery problem.” “You’re in my way.” “Thank You.” 

  • The dynamic between Estella / Cruella and the Baroness is just so much fun to watch, it’s electrifying. 

  • Speaking of which. Huge applause to the two Emmas here. Emma Stone and Emma Thompson. They are both just simply amazing in this. 

  • Excellent supporting cast that includes Joel Fry, Paul Walter Hauser, Tipper Seifert-Cleveland, Andrew Leung, John McCrea, Mark Strong, and more. The Dogs! Can’t forget to give a shout out to the dogs too.

  • All the colorful, kinetic, arresting visuals and imagery that can be found in this film. Spectacular stuff. 

  • Really enjoyed the soundtrack, that’s filled with lots of rock favorites from the 1960s and 1970s. 

  • Oh yeah, and then there’s all that fashion stuff. I’m sure fashionistas will get a kick.

NEGATIVES…

  • Song choices can be arguably superficially implemented into the movie. 

  • Certain story conveniences and familiar tropes here and there. 

  • Some logical flaws that take you out of the movie at times. 

  • Movie is probably longer than it had to be. 

  • CGI dogs. I mean. Advancements in live-action computer animation and all, but still. Obvious CGI dogs.

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Cruella - watched it on DISNEY+