Top 50 Best Films of 2020
A new decade, a new year for watching incredible films. We got an Edgar Wright movie coming, a new James Bond film, and a new Christopher Nolan film. Let us have a great year for film.- I have to point out this was written back in January.
Best Picture: Sound of Metal
Best Director: Eliza Hittman for Never Rarely Sometimes Always
Best Director Debut: Darius Marder for Sound of Metal
Best Lead Actor: Riz Ahmed for Sound of Metal
Best Lead Actress: Vanessa Kirby for Pieces of a Woman
Best Supporting Actor: Paul Raci for Sound of Metal
Best Supporting Actress: Talia Ryder for Never Rarely Sometimes Always
Best Original Screenplay: Soul
Best Adapted Screenplay:The Outpost
Best Action Film: Extraction
Best Horror Film: Impetigore
Best Crime Film: The Gentlemen
Best Documentary: Beastie Boys
Best Comedy: Get Duked!
Best Animated Feature: Soul
Best Foreign Language Film: Another Round
Best Ensemble Cast: One Night in Miami
Best Score: Soul
Best Editing: I’m Thinking of Ending Things
Best Cinematography: Pieces of a Woman
Best TV Show: Gangs of London
Best Directed TV Show: Scott Frank for The Queen’s Gambit
Best New TV Show: I May Destroy You
Best Lead Actor in TV: Sope Dirisu for Gangs of London
Best Lead Actress in TV: Shira Haas for Unorthodox
Best Supporting Actor in TV: Harold Torres for ZeroZeroZero
Best Supporting Actress in TV:
Best Picture: Sound of Metal
Best Director: Eliza Hittman for Never Rarely Sometimes Always
Best Director Debut: Darius Marder for Sound of Metal
Best Lead Actor: Riz Ahmed for Sound of Metal
Best Lead Actress: Vanessa Kirby for Pieces of a Woman
Best Supporting Actor: Paul Raci for Sound of Metal
Best Supporting Actress: Talia Ryder for Never Rarely Sometimes Always
Best Original Screenplay: Soul
Best Adapted Screenplay:The Outpost
Best Action Film: Extraction
Best Horror Film: Impetigore
Best Crime Film: The Gentlemen
Best Documentary: Beastie Boys
Best Comedy: Get Duked!
Best Animated Feature: Soul
Best Foreign Language Film: Another Round
Best Ensemble Cast: One Night in Miami
Best Score: Soul
Best Editing: I’m Thinking of Ending Things
Best Cinematography: Pieces of a Woman
Best TV Show: Gangs of London
Best Directed TV Show: Scott Frank for The Queen’s Gambit
Best New TV Show: I May Destroy You
Best Lead Actor in TV: Sope Dirisu for Gangs of London
Best Lead Actress in TV: Shira Haas for Unorthodox
Best Supporting Actor in TV: Harold Torres for ZeroZeroZero
Best Supporting Actress in TV:
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- DirectorDarius MarderStarsRiz AhmedOlivia CookePaul RaciA heavy metal drummer's life is turned upside down when he begins to lose his hearing and he must confront a future filled with silence.This will rip your heart out and give you something you may experience as one of your worst fears. There is this discussion online about which character in a movie has gone thru the most. I have to say Riz Ahmed’s Ruben has to be up there. This is a straight up mood piece quite like 2019’s Waves, which again is a movie that specializes in sound and sight. Both movies do not have grand like stories but more like a slice of life. But take a look at big directors like Fincher, Tarantino, or even Nolan. There past movies have been lackluster to say the least. But look amazing and made with such professionalism that makes anyone who loves film will look at them and see why they are the best in the game. But this film and Waves by the new age directors really have proved to combine both amazing made films from a technical aspect to then make a great story. I have to say a lot of films left me cold that I couldn’t get attach to anyone. But this film let me feel all the feels. From the get go I was on board and holy shit did this film kick off with a bang. Seriously all the two hours was a god damn feeling of hope blissfulness and at end I felt more sadness than anything before. I am amazed at how much I felt for this movie. And yes don’t get fooled by the streaming service original you see for free, this is a film that is directed and written so damn well. Which is why this is my favorite film of the year. I love my top ten and The Outpost, Run, and the rest are all great but you really have no f-ing idea how much an impact a film can have when you watch this film from beginning to end. The last shot is f-ing beautiful but so damn haunting that it is a scary experience to witness. Riz Ahmed is probably a shoe in for the win. As he should be. He is the film and without him you feel nothing. Plus the role ask for what I assume an American born citizen but they cast a British Pakistani for the lead role and I honestly can’t see anyone for this role. Among the other great things about this movie it is also a great achievement of casting actual death people and letting them have a say in the matter. Ruben is not a character who is born deaf but this is film is about adapting to a new life stable and letting others guide you. It is not about accepting defeat and that is something I think is being overlooked here these people who are deaf and none of them are blaming the world but someone who has his whole life be something to all of sudden change at the flip of the dime can seem scary and hopeless. But that is why the community and the people have so much impact on the story they matter because that is what people have been asking for representation. They are not asking to be the lead in a film which would be nice, but if you are going to make a film about this subject matter it would be nice to see actual people who have gone thru these experiences in order to get an actual emotion from the audience. Why do you think Run works so much. That is why this film works. God damn I am in love with this movie. The best film of the mother fucking year.
10/10 - DirectorPete DocterKemp PowersStarsJamie FoxxTina FeyGraham NortonJoe is a middle-school band teacher whose life hasn't quite gone the way he expected. His true passion is jazz. But when he travels to another realm to help someone find their passion, he soon discovers what it means to have soul.This is just, damn where to begin. Okay from the trailer I really wasn’t expecting much for this movie. But when Pixar releases more than one movie a year it is always the second film to come that is better. So I thought Onward was amazing and you can’t find a better Pixar movie. But this takes a story about living to a whole new level. I always hate the stigma that animation films have that they are just for kids or it is a genre so holy crap this is just a moment in film history to see something this magnificent. Jamie Fox’s Joe Gardner is one of the best leads we have seen not just in Pixar or animation but in any story telling degree because holy crap this is what a mood piece is. It is so damn good to see a movie that takes so much chances about life and death. And yes Pixar have touched on these topics before. With Up, Coco, and Inside Out but the difference here is letting people who feel they don’t have a purpose in this world matter. Which is why this is an important movie to a lot of people to see why we should live life like it is our last. Tiny Fay’s 22 is us everyday for those who haven’t found their purpose in life but it is important to at least try. And that message about giving this world a try and making sure that not everything needs to be grand or life changing but it is how it makes you feel. There is no shame in enjoying life just the way it is. This film is so damn polite with the nature of how we as human beings live our life. I think it is so beautiful to see a film tackle something as serious as accepting your end because one day our time will come and it is up to us to accept our end. No matter how sad this might sound but we really can’t do anything about our end. It is out of our hands and when our time comes we are going to go. This film is also really and I mean really funny. They are so many quick cutaways to other characters that will make die laughing. Multiple times I was laughing really hard and I’m so glad to watch this movie at home because it would be a real shame to not be able to watch this film this year or be put on the shelf. This is an emotional ride that didn’t stop to the very end. This film sticks the landing so my top two favorite movies of the year have exceptional endings that really pull your heart out and make you feel something that no other median can accomplish.
10/10 - DirectorKornél MundruczóStarsVanessa KirbyShia LaBeoufEllen BurstynWhen a young mother's home birth ends in unfathomable tragedy, she begins a year-long odyssey of mourning that fractures relationships with loved ones in this deeply personal story of a woman learning to live alongside her loss.Real good dramas are hard to come by. This is evidence that the term Oscar bait does not apply to some but for me it shouldn’t be labeled for this film. I honestly was taken away by the pure power that this film has and a lot falls on Vanessa Kirby being as good as she is. It is written by Kata Weber and directed by Kornel Mundrugzo which I love White God. This being their first English language film is remarkable seeing how well written and acted a film like this is. It is not a high concept film instead it is about one woman’s struggle to find her femininity. Many films are about men finding their masculinity hell I just rewatched The Grey from 2012 and that film is about men coming to terms about their place in this world and to see a film with the contrast opposite is amazing to see. Aside from Vanessa their is Shia who yes is going through some personal stuff that I wish wasn’t hanging it’s head over this movie but he is amazing in the film. It’s always nice to see Sarah Snook in a film, and the rest of the cast does a good job but it is Kirby’s performance that you will walk away from. The ending is just about right and leaves enough to the imagination to not be overly sappy and sad but more hopeful. I didn’t need a heartbreaking ending because I already got that for a majority of the film. Instead the ending provides hope and a different feeling than we have been used to seeing. Please check this film out and you will not regret watching this film.
10/10 - DirectorThomas VinterbergStarsMads MikkelsenThomas Bo LarsenMagnus MillangFour high-school teachers consume alcohol on a daily basis to see how it affects their social and professional lives.It took me about four months but I finally got around to seeing it. Thanks to Hulu of course. And it is as good as every one saying it is. Holy crap both Mads and Thomas are excellent together and made another modern masterpiece about the mundane life style with real people. I mean these feel like teachers with a drinking problem. It never came off as actors or over written or directed but instead he uses the same tactics he used in films like The Hunt and The Celebration where it is not a plot heavy movie or even a story heavy movie instead these characters are what makes this movie more warming and welcoming than any story about alcoholism can do. I love it.
10/10 - DirectorRegina KingStarsKingsley Ben-AdirEli GoreeAldis HodgeA fictional account of one incredible night where icons Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, Sam Cooke, and Jim Brown gathered discussing their roles in the Civil Rights Movement and cultural upheaval of the 60s.Damn. I’ll say this again damn. First let me go over the four main cast members. Malcom X is being campaign as the lead, and he should because to me he is what moves the story forward even the last quote of the film ends with him. Kingsley Ben-Adir portray of Malcom X is not just good as X but we get to see much more than just the leader we know him as. He captures what Malcom could have been off camera and that discussion is in this film of who he is when the camera. Denzel Washington will always be awesome as X because he had a three hour movie to really showcase the life, but here this is enough of a difference that it doesn’t seem like a re do or a copy of what that film did. Next I would say is Eli Goree as Cassius Clay. His physical appearance can even rival what Will Smith did in Ali. But I like how his story comes full circle on how we see him as Cassius Clay and at the end he is known as Muhammad Ali. And I love that journey with so much heart and affection added towards it, you feel every bit of who this man is. Leslie Odom Jr. is without a doubt phenomenal in the singing aspect playing Sam Cooke. And I already love Sam Cooke’s music but I had no idea the impact he had because I really wasn’t around that time. Malcom X said it best he has the opportunity more than the other three to make an impact bigger than any of them. Last but certainly not least I have to say Jim Brown is my favorite. Aldis Hodge is amazing as Jim Brown. Maybe it is because I love football and Jim Brown is a legend but I just love that he just wants to get laid. I don’t know why but that added element makes me like him the most out of the group. Then he hits Malcom X with that I’m not a hero line. Which I have to say with Cappernick and everything going on in the NFL right now nothing has changed. But the fact that we have athletes try to say anything they are seen as just that athletes. Jim Brown was just so cool to see. Everyone in this cast is amazing. But now to touch on Regina King’s directorial debut. Holy crap she nails it. The editing is not choppy and for a one location film the cinematography is on point to not be the same. But even if the look of the film has a sameness to it at least the dialogue will keep you captivated to keep watching. Because holy crap this is such a well written film. I really like this movie. It is so well made and the stories it tells is just amazing to watch and behold. This is a really entertaining film.
10/10 - DirectorTomm MooreRoss StewartStarsHonor KneafseyEva WhittakerSean BeanA young apprentice hunter and her father journey to Ireland to help wipe out the last wolf pack. But everything changes when she befriends a free-spirited girl from a mysterious tribe rumored to transform into wolves by night.This movie got better every minute that passes by. I should have known it was going to be good based on the directors previous work. Hell Song of the Sea freaking broke me. This is right up there. I love this movie and I couldn’t take my eyes away from what I was watching because plays like a smooth watch. Not to say that as a bad thing but the fantasy element is not too confusing where the viewer is left wondering how all this is happening. It works on a logical level but also on an emotional one as well. Just like the directors previous work they will rip your heart out but also make sure it is not done in a cliche or even sappy away. They do it very maturely with a very well nature to let the audience be aware of what they are watching. No fart or poop jokes. No silly wolf jokes or annoying characters. It is a very understated animated film that feels very welcoming to anyone who loves good stories and hoping to watch something inspiring. This is top notch filmmaking and storytelling.
10/10 - DirectorRod LurieStarsScott EastwoodCaleb Landry JonesOrlando BloomA small team of U.S. soldiers battles against hundreds of Taliban fighters in Afghanistan.Holy crap. Half way thru the film I said this film is amazing. Then the last half came in and smack the crap out of me. Holy hell I love this film. Full disclosure I have never served in the military so I’m going to go in any detail of how “accurate” the combat is or even the events that went down. All I care about is how great this film plays out from beginning to end. Even before we get to the long second act battle that goes down I was already fully invested in this film. Scott Eastwood is so damn good in this movie he fits in this character so damn well that you forget he is acting. Along with special shout-out to Caleb Laundry Jones who is phenomenal in this movie. And he isn’t playing your typical gun ho type of solider instead he is more of an outsider to the squad so when the ship goes down he puts it all their and he commands the screen with his presence and is amazing. Rob Lurie who directed the hell out of this movie doesn’t over do any of cliche war type movies you have seen a thousands times. Which I have to be honest I’m sick and tired of watching straight to dvd low budget war films that have no heart and no balls really. Hell we have 5 freaking Jarhead movies. This is totally different film and a story that needs to be told. Because at the end of film it shows the real men who died during this terrible battle and all of the men who died are under the age of 30 some younger than myself. This is not your typical war movie, it is intense hell a lot of gun battles go off you feel it and don’t want any of these men to die. But damn this film kicks the hell out of you. Their are some small scenes of courage from Caleb is so damn encouraging to watch and you care about him and he is the heart of the film. While he is the heart of the film, Scott is the muscle. Seriously he is a bad ass. I have always been a fan of his but this took him to a whole new level. He is brilliant in the film who knocks it out of the park of how ruthless he is and a couple of scenes where he takes control of the situation and he makes a leader out of his real life counterpart. This is without a doubt my favorite film of the year. The long takes in this film are not gimmicks which some people may think but the director does it without ease and gives it a whole new meaning. The long takes are just damn beautiful.
10/10 - DirectorSam HargraveStarsChris HemsworthBryon LerumRyder LerumTyler Rake, a fearless black market mercenary, embarks on the most deadly extraction of his career when he's enlisted to rescue the kidnapped son of an imprisoned international crime lord.So this is The Way Back but instead of our lead coaching basketball he becomes a mercenary. This is one bad ass flick. Seriously, Rambo Last Blood wished it was this movie. I mean yes we have seen this film a million times before hell Netflix has like 6 films just like this that came out this year alone. What makes this film different from the rest is well Chris Hemsworth he has never been better. To me this is his best performance outside of the MCU because Ragnarok is still one of his best. It is a truly an awesome movie with beautiful camera work from the director with amazing stunt work this is a raw and brutal film. With theaters closed at the moment it is so nice to see an action film that doesn’t feel a straight to dvd with cheap affects crappy editing and terrible camera work. This is not that film and yes as of right now it is my favorite film of the year. This is the type of movie I would like to make and it is my type of movie to watch. A hard R with a bad ass lead and incredible action that will make you flinch just of how hard this movie hits. It is f-ing rad.
10/10 - DirectorChung-Hyun LeeStarsPark Shin-hyeJeon Jong-seoKim Sung-ryungTwo people live in different times. Seo-Yeon lives in the present and Young-Sook lives in the past. One phone call connects the two, and their lives are changed irrevocably.
- DirectorPaul GreengrassStarsTom HanksHelena ZengelTom AstorA Civil War veteran agrees to deliver a girl taken by the Kiowa people years ago to her aunt and uncle against her will. They travel hundreds of miles and face grave dangers as they search for a place that either can call home.
- DirectorChad HartiganStarsOlivia CookeJack O'ConnellSokoA couple fights to hold their relationship together as a memory loss virus spreads and threatens to erase the history of their love and courtship.
- DirectorSpike JonzeStarsBeastie BoysMike DAdam HorovitzHere's a little story they're about to tell... Michael Diamond and Adam Horovitz share the story of the band, Beastie Boys, and 40 years of friendship in a live documentary experience directed by friend and collaborator, Spike Jonze.I am now glad I have an iPhone so I don’t have to pay for Apple TV Plus. Even tho I think iPhone makers are putting secret codes in the phones to send help but anyway I love this documentary. I am a huge Beastie Boys fan. Truly they are awesome. It’s so fascinating to see them describe them in their younger years as so cool and confident they were. But also to see them grow out of their reckless days. Which is why I love this documentary; it is funny, an incredible trip, and it is really touching near the end. Which is why this documentary has much more heart to it than most do. I can’t believe how much I love this documentary and thanks to Spike Jones who orchestrated this odyssey of awesomeness. And the music you can not tap your foot and nod your head when Sabotage, Intergalactic, Fight for your Right, etc. etc. It is an eclectic fun show stopping force to be reckon with. Watch this shit.
10/10 - DirectorSpike LeeStarsDelroy LindoJonathan MajorsClarke PetersFour African-American vets battle the forces of man and nature when they return to Vietnam seeking the remains of their fallen squad leader and the gold fortune he helped them hide.Netflix coming in again to provide one of the most exhilarating and thought provoking film of the year. This film is awesome plain and simple because Spike Lee is doing something special here with something that is deeply personal. We can feel the pain the black and even the affect the Vietnam war had on both the Americans who were sent there forced to act upon on another person’s war. This is the point of the whole movie that these men including countless others did during that time. While war was breaking out in their real hometown where they are needed the most. This film is much needed right now from a filmmaker who is not afraid or bound to make some cookie cutter film about 4 selfish soldiers who have no character growth but that can’t be more false. All the actors here are able to make these characters seem important to the story to move it along and we are here to follow them into the depth of insanity and this film gets crazier and more intense as the 2 hr and 34 min runtime that will not bore you. Spike has done it again. This film is awesome.
9/10 - DirectorEliza HittmanStarsSidney FlaniganTalia RyderThéodore PellerinA pair of teenage girls in rural Pennsylvania travel to New York City to seek out medical help after an unintended pregnancy.It has been real difficult to watch new films during these circumstances. It sucks to say the least. But I knew once Eliza Hittman released her new film I had to watch it. This might be her best film to date. It is both engaging and heartfelt to watch. But at the same time gut wrenching in some aspects dealing with the subject matter. The reason why I say it is heartfelt because you don’t hate the lead two female characters. If anything if you don’t route for these characters the movie provides enough evidence to understand the mains woman’s situation. It is not at all disturbing to watch actually because Eliza makes anyone understand everything that is going on without spoon feeding us all the information. I love this movie and again where we are at in these dyer times a movie this good is great to watch no matter the format. And I am saying that as someone who has watched this movie from home, watch it and it is great.
9/10 - DirectorMichel FrancoStarsNaian González NorvindEligio MeléndezMónica Del CarmenA lavish high-society wedding unexpectedly turns into a class struggle that leads to a violent coup.
- DirectorDan ScanlonStarsTom HollandChris PrattJulia Louis-DreyfusIn a magical world full of technological advances, elven brothers Ian and Barley Lightfoot set out on an adventure to resurrect their late father for a day.I have been so on and off with Pixar these last couple of years. I think films like Coco, Inside Out have been home run hits. But lately I wasn’t the biggest fan of either Toy Story 4 or even The Incredibles 2. However, holy crap this is a phenomenal movie with something for everyone to enjoy, laugh, and cry. So while think about the ending and not being what you may think it is, it truly sneaks up on you and makes you reflect on what’s truly important in life. Wow did this movie have its hooks in me and dragged me along for the ride. Sure it makes you cry but I felt it was more imaginative and creative on how this dynamic between brothers would fit in this story and it works like gang buster. Love every minute of it and it gives us a little hope in their time and need. Which both this and Big Time Adolescence makes me want to call my brother. And call yours cause this will wish you can be every inch of what a big brother should be.
10/10 - DirectorMichael MatthewsStarsDylan O'BrienJessica HenwickMichael RookerSeven years after he survived the monster apocalypse, lovably hapless Joel leaves his cozy underground bunker behind on a quest to reunite with his high school sweetheart.I honestly have to say this is the movie I needed right now. I’m just so happy for Dylan O’Brien to be given this chance to really show he is a force to be reckon with. He is funny, heartbreaking, and ultimately the most relatable character we have right now. Next to the main character in #Alive where a young slacker tries to survive in a zombie apocalypse while trying to find love which this film follows a third act that is pretty note by note the same we have seen a lot. But aside that negative critique that third act is still pulse pounding exciting climax that I really enjoyed. The whole film is enjoyable because the monsters and the human characters are a match at being just as good as the other. The characters don’t over shadow the monsters because of the brilliant visuals are amazing. Ultimately tho again the monsters do not get in the way of the human characters. Joel, which has to be a The Last of Us reference, is amazing as our main character and I just fell for what he was going thru. It’s so weird seeing a lot of movies that try to relate to young adults like myself just fall flat. And I have always been a fan of Dylan so I have seen him been in some lead roles and he is great but to me this is his best work. He is just flat out a great character who makes this film as enjoyable as it is. I never understood the term this film has no right to be this good. But holy crap this is a great film. I haven’t even seen the trailer for this film and this film had like no press and no one has talked about it along with the trailer not even reaching a million views. Which is insane because I honestly thought this would be a straight to dvd knock off of other popular films that have done it better. But it is not. It is amazing on all levels which makes me love this movie even more. I usually don’t watch films twice anymore unless it is like a holiday theme movie for Halloween and old classics but this is a film that I would strongly advise watching it again. I even tested up a bit towards the end because it is a message I think anyone can get behind. I love this film.
9/10 - DirectorAntonio CamposStarsBill SkarsgårdTom HollandBanks RepetaSinister characters converge around a young man devoted to protecting those he loves in a postwar backwoods town teeming with corruption and brutality.First all the performances are incredible and top notch. Along with great cinematography, really good choice of music, and brilliant character work. I mean a lot of films now days are put together real professionally by editing and camera work along with the technical aspect it is an A+ but it seems some movies forget characters and story. But The Devil All The Time does not skip a step when it comes to character work and story. I love stories like these. These small town crime dramas with an enormous cast are my type of thing. Tom Holland as this main character is one of my favorite of the year. The whole ensemble is great but to me it is Tom who radiates off screen as someone to not look away from. Batman is still over the top as always. Pennywise who is mainly in the beginning of the movie is the one who sets this curse among the whole family. Winter soldier and his storyline might be the weakest aspect of the movie. But I still really like this movie a lot actually because it did keep me interested like a good book does. The one takeaway I can say about this film is that I did care what happens to Tom Holland’s character because of all the crap he went through. This is a brutal film and I love the barebones nature of this film. It actually has a lot to say about religion and our relationship with God. How that can shape a lot of us to head down a terrible route but the irony is the Bible could be about peace but a lot of that peace was paved by violence. That is the tile is referring to. The Devil All The Time is a great title as the moment Pennywise brought God unto his life he knew it would come at a price because this film does not have any blissful nature and it is hell. This is a downer of a film which towards the end I love the turn and the narration really heads home. It is a great film and a really good story.
9/10 - DirectorJoko AnwarStarsTara BasroArio BayuMarissa AnitaA toll booth operator travels to her ancestral village in hopes of claiming an inheritance - until she discovers the unsettling truth about her past.The best horror film of the year. Horror fans should join in on Shudder and watch this immediately. Even non horror fans should watch this because from the first 10 minutes this film grabs you in and it is so damn entertaining to watch. I was pulled in from the beginning and never got bored. With two very fun female lead characters to watch and route for. They are not annoying but instead their flaws make them more realistic in their acting. Seriously this is one of the better acted horror films I have seen in a long time. Midsommar also have some of the same aspects as this film but I really like how this film tackles curses and all the twists in this film are not over explaining. It adds enough story for you to put the pieces together which keeps an audience more engage into see how this crazy story ends. Seriously I was guessing all the way through in how this movie ends but at the same time I was so enthralled in how well shot, acted, and edited. Their are some great camera techniques in this film because of course it is. It’s from Indonesia which are the best at moving the camera to use long takes and flipping the camera upside down. It changes the way we can put the camera in different angles which makes me want to be a director even more. Everyday I think to myself this is my type of horror films and it is awesome to see these type of movies being made. Especially from different countries. It’s great watch this film.
9/10 - DirectorGeorge C. WolfeStarsViola DavisChadwick BosemanGlynn TurmanTensions rise when trailblazing blues singer Ma Rainey and her band gather at a recording studio in Chicago in 1927.
- DirectorEmerald FennellStarsCarey MulliganBo BurnhamAlison BrieNothing in Cassie's life is what it appears to be - she's wickedly smart, tantalizingly cunning, and she's living a secret double life. Now, an unexpected encounter is about to give Cassie a chance to right the wrongs from the past.The good: Carey Mulligan. She is pitch perfect in this role. It is amazing to see this side of her. We as film fans know she has been amazing from day one. But this isn’t An Education, or Wildlife or any other film she has done. She pulses with electricity like I have never seen before by her. Of course the writer of Killing Eve made something this smart and sophisticated. While also being darkly funny. But it isn’t a laugh riot. This is a romantic comedy with a musical montage of love, then a tragic drama about grief and lost, last it is a psychological thriller with enough twists and turns you never see coming. That is all in the writing and directing. Truly an A+ effort handling all these tonal shifts never making the audience bored. My eyes were glued to this screen by just how beautiful looking this film is. The rest of the cast aside from Mulligan don’t have a lot of screen time but they do leave a lasting impression enough to make you want more from them. My only problem or complaint is that I just don’t love it as much as I would like to. I love the choice in the ending I really do. The whole ending from the last 20 minutes o think it is ballsy. And the song it ends on is just the cherry on top. Maybe it is the most entertaining film I have seen this year but I really wish they would change a few things here and there. Which is difficult because as a film lover I never want a filmmaker to change their film for one person liking. Because that is not good filmmaking to cater to only one person. Aside from that I do like title and the meaning behind it. It is a pretty good film and I would like to own it and watch it to learn more things about it.
9/10 - DirectorPatrick VollrathStarsJoseph Gordon-LevittOmid MemarAylin TezelWhen terrorists try to seize control of a Berlin-Paris flight, a soft-spoken American co-pilot struggles to save the lives of the passengers and crew while forging a surprising connection with one of the hijackers.I’m honestly shocked that the rating is a 6.2 as of me writing this but I’m pretty sure it will not go up or down. But this film is an incredible smart and an extremely thrilling movie that does not hold back any punches. Which is something we want out of movies now. In a world where everything needs to be a tv show to develop characters and story but it is so nice to see a lean mean under 90 minute movie machine. JGL is back and better than ever. He is front and center in this film and you can not take your eyes off his performance which should be consider for best lead actor. Audiences should love a film like this because this is how films back in the 90’s were made. Just a simple story filled with intense and heartbreaking scenes that is awesome to see a film like this again.
9/10 - DirectorThomas BezuchaStarsDiane LaneKevin CostnerKayli CarterA retired sheriff and his wife, grieving over the death of their son, set out to find their only grandson.This is how you make one killer of a thriller. The old vets are without a doubt top of their game. With some of the best writing that has come their way in a long time. The story is also captivating enough to carry that almost 2 hour run time. Most movies fall to have characters to make you route for and a villain to hate. Here we know who the good guys and the bad guys are and we are as the audience buy every minute of this movie. I’m fine with movies having a serious tone like this because it also some films to have their own voice and actually this director first two films are a complete contrast to what this film is. If I hadn’t slept on this film I’m pretty sure this would have made it in my top ten. But I honestly can’t think of any huge complaints about the film. This is an emotional ride about owning what’s yours and hell yeah of an ending. Check this film out.
9/10 - DirectorAlice WuStarsLeah LewisDaniel DiemerAlexxis LemireWhen smart but cash-strapped teen Ellie Chu agrees to write a love letter for a jock, she doesn't expect to become his friend - or fall for his crush.Beautiful absolutely beautiful. Not only in the story telling which is worth talking about but the locations, the song choices, the good hearted nature of the three main characters, and the actual conversations that people have are something new and exciting we rarely see anymore. This movie gets a lot right with so little wrong with being one of the best teen romance movies to come out of any studio or streaming service. Which is why I never understood how people will talk down on straight to streaming movies, cause this is one of many films to hit the streaming service and deliver an incredible touching story that make anyone feel moved by watching this movie. This movie does take chances and is never boring because it can be divided into three parts and you may think that you know where this is going it changes into something unexpected. It was 40 minutes in and I was wondering where is this movie going then it hits you in the gut of how real this can be. Both Leah Lewis and Daniel Diemer are amazing in this movie and it is something that I think everyone should watch cause it is both funny and tragic as the story continues. Big props go Alice Wu for making Ellie (Leah Lewis) strong and independent enough to make loneliness seem unwanted or even unwarranted because a great storyteller and actress can do that.
9/10 - DirectorAneesh ChagantyStarsSarah PaulsonKiera AllenSara SohnChloe, a teenager who is confined to a wheelchair, is homeschooled by her mother, Diane. Chloe soon becomes suspicious of her mother and begins to suspect that she may be harboring a dark secret.Awesome. Purely f-ing awesome. I love thrillers and it has been a good year for thrillers. From this to also 7500 these two thrillers are amazing with building up tension that delivers with every direction and step it takes. From beginning to end Run is a non stop thrill ride that absolutely kills it with some of the best performances of the year. Both Sara Paulson and newcomer Kiera Allen are amazing in this back and forth that captures some true exciting achievements done by the guy who directed one of my favorite films of 2018. Aneesh Changanty is a genius. I mean it. His directing, the camera movement, the atmosphere, everything is brutally amazing. Watching this movie put me thru so much emotion. Like after watching this movie I let out a huge god damn. Because this is how you make a thriller. Hell this is how you make a f-ing movie. Lean and mean 90 minutes that yes it sucks that we can’t a movie like this on the big screen but hell I would rather watch this film over and over again for free to fully dive into what this movie brings. It is awesome. I love this movie and I really hope it stays in my top 10 because it is that damn good.
9/10 - DirectorJim CummingsStarsJim CummingsRiki LindhomeRobert ForsterTerror grips a small mountain town as bodies are discovered after each full moon. Losing sleep, raising a teenage daughter, and caring for his ailing father, officer Marshall struggles to remind himself there's no such thing as werewolves.RIP Robert Forster. He lead a great career and if this is his last film then he ended his career on a high note. Because this film is in one word, great. Horror comedies are not my thing. Which is weird because horror is my favorite genre. This is such a refreshing movie to watch as a horror fan with this being one of the year’s best. It is not only frightening in parts but also really funny. More funny than it needs to be. I just had a great time watching this 80 minute riot. This is the complete opposite of Scare Me.
9/10 - DirectorNinian DoffStarsLewis GribbenRian GordonViraj JunejaAn anarchic, hip-hop inspired comedy that follows four city boys on a wilderness trek as they try to escape a mysterious huntsman.Aside from Soul this is possibly my favorite and funniest comedy of 2020. I just have one problem. The Duke and his wife are great antagonist against the four boys but I have to say two things could have been better if possibly given more time. It is a comedy and I was having a blast but it was never laughing at these bros. We or at least I was laughing with them. There is incredible chemistry going on here and of course it goes about exactly how you think it is going to go but the jokes never felt stale or even too foreign for an American like me to find enjoyable. It is similar to the likes of this year’s The Hunt but I don’t know this was just far more enjoyable and more of a likable film. What a blast I had. Plus the editing and music choices are just great it is a great addition to something I would like to do if I ever make a film.
9/10 - DirectorGarrett BradleyStarsSibil Fox RichardsonRobert G. RichardsonMahlik RichardsonFox Rich fights for the release of her husband, Rob, who is serving a 60-year sentence in prison.There have been a ton of good documentaries that came out in 2020. Most hit harder like this one because of the year it has been. But even before I go into the justice system and the crime itself, I was won over totally by the end. Because as you can see from the poster this image hits harder in the context of the film. It also has a lot to say about the time we have on this earth to not let it pass as this family have been counting down the days for their love one to come home. And at the end when some vids are playing in reverse to a very profound last shot. If you can get me with a last shot to be moved to an emotional moment not just for the real people in this film but for us the audience who followed these people on this difficult journey. But for us which is an 80 minute movie must have felt like a life time for these real people is just an emotional pull I wasn’t expecting from this movie.
9/10 - DirectorAaron SorkinStarsEddie RedmayneAlex SharpSacha Baron CohenThe story of 7 people on trial stemming from various charges surrounding the uprising at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois.The movie is definitely far from perfect. At times it does feel scripted not just for tv but also like a stage play. It is edited to be excited with quick cuts and moving back and forth between dialogue to keep you invested which came off more distracting than intended. And the last scene is well a little over dramatic for my taste. But and I mean but that still doesn’t take away this honest portrayal of what these men had to go thru under these circumstances. A little background I don’t mind if life is reflected in art and that goes for both left and right. This is a movie that is more left than center which I do feel like it might turn people away. But all the evidence that is presented and further reading to see what actually happened that day I started to feel like these men were at the end of their roles towards the end. So forget how much carelessness the judge and sometimes even your own government may have against you but it seemed to me I couldn’t help to be on their side. I mean I was already in their favor from the beginning only because I agree with all these men are saying. And the movie does move at a break neck speed to keep the viewer interested but honestly I feel like I didn’t need all of that. Which honestly the cast both helps and hurts this material. I’m pretty sure the actors portraying these real life figures took inspiration of what other people may have said about them without giving us the audience a realistic approach to who these men really were. For me it was distracting because I was just thinking are these men really like this. And the answer to that a probably a big fat no. But at least Sorkin who wrote and directed makes it entertaining to watch this story unfold. It is a courtroom drama so if you know you like these stories, without hesitation will tell you to watch this movie because I doubt you will be bored. What can I say about the acting all are phenomenal because all of them bring their A game. Honestly I can’t say any actor in this movie was bad or not convincing at all. I did feel for all of these guys because of the position they were in was a disgrace and again history is repeating itself again and again and sadly what these men were fighting for to not make this trial about them but the cause and the reason what drove them to do this in the first place gets muddled by sheer lunacy in order to distract others what is really going on. Powerful stuff.
9/10 - DirectorGuy RitchieStarsMatthew McConaugheyCharlie HunnamMichelle DockeryAn American expat tries to sell off his highly profitable marijuana empire in London, triggering plots, schemes, bribery and blackmail in an attempt to steal his domain out from under him.Guy Ritchie has done it again and I applaud him for taking on one of his most fun and exciting films in a long time. With a cast who is having the most fun with their roles and actors delivering awesome performances. Matthew, Charlie, Colin, Michelle, Hugh, Henry, and with two smaller roles with Jeremy Strong and Eddie Marsan the whole cast delievers with so much cool I had a blast watching this movie. I did laugh multiple times and just had a huge smile on my face from beginning to end.
9/10 - DirectorMatthew Michael CarnahanStarsWaleed ElgadiSuhail DabbachAdam BessaA police unit from Mosul fight to liberate the Iraqi city from thousands of ISIS militants.I’m actually pretty glad that this film’s ending didn’t go for the loud and explosive ending instead it went for a more emotional ending. The lead up that this film has pays off in the end when it is explain why these soldiers are doing what they are doing. The last line hits that point even harder in how these men’s priorities will never end until the other side is fully extinct. It is as powerful as any superhero movie ever because this story doesn’t need to be dragged out or to be this elaborate 3 hour history lesson. Instead it is a go for broke look at what these actual men had to go through. It is polarizing and the action is top notch filmmaking that makes it look like it was done by a pro. Sure yes the characters at least some of them are not fleshed out like some people would love but this along with The Outpost shows more of the human struggle and a group of men’s will to not give up. I love these types of stories.
9/10 - DirectorGalder Gaztelu-UrrutiaStarsIvan MassaguéZorion EguileorAntonia San JuanA vertical prison with one cell per level. Two people per cell. Only one food platform and two minutes per day to feed. An endless nightmare trapped in The Hole.The premise had me intrigued from the get go. Especially last year when I first heard about this movie and my eye out for it ever since. Thank you Netflix for still providing quality entertainment during well this time. If you love Snowpiercer then you would love this movie as did I. Because not only does it provide enough information to keep you hook, it never goes off the deep end into unbelievable territory. Which truly is the strength of this movie. That is what keeps this more horrifying than anything I have seen in a while. This is true horror mixed well with a great science fiction plot. It truly has no easy answers to anything. Even in the end, it’s ambiguity leaves a strong impression that will keep anyone guessing what this movie is and what the ending actual means. At a 89 minute runtime the time is an actual important part of the story because it has much more to say about how precious time is. The more the movie goes along it just get better and better because the food of the film represents the story in a way I wasn’t expecting. It is not predictable at all. Watch this movie and examine where we are at right now in society and this film may not seem as far fetched. Holy fuck as I’m typing this I never felt for a movie more relevant than I do now.
9/10 watch this shit now. - DirectorJeff Orlowski-YangStarsTristan HarrisJeff SeibertBailey RichardsonExplores the dangerous human impact of social networking; tech experts sound the alarm on their own creations.One reviewer did say this doc is a little to late, which is something I agree with. Which is why the first half of this doc is something I basically already knew. I know that this system is really trying to manipulate others into doing something or thinking in a way that they have never came across before. And the big marketing companies that profit off of that. Truly I know that myself. But it is still fascinating to watch, until the second half comes on. The moment they start talking about how fake news is controlling the social media is where I got more invested. I mean seriously every topic of conversation could have applied 5 or even 10 years ago, and hell they can come out with this type of documentary every year and still be just as topical still as impactful as it is right now. To me it is all about sides because reaction can only come from those who are outrage. Like they said in the doc we are living in the most divisive time we are living in. Because people are simple we want a side to pick because the easier it is to pick a side the much more easier it is to control the situation. I mean hell social is causing people or sure enough to influence others to go out and do something. It is a little more complicated than that but this doc still has a lot of important information and what young minds are being shaped for their future is damaging. Because social media probably was intended for good and of course these companies were made to make money but they never asked themselves how they were going to make that money. And that is the dangerous part.
9/10 - DirectorAndrew PattersonStarsSierra McCormickJake HorowitzGail CronauerOne night in New Mexico, in the late 1950s, a switchboard operator and radio DJ discover a strange audio frequency which could change the future forever.Took me by complete surprise. I had no idea what to expect and within the first 20 minutes is a fast paced dialogue heavy conversation between multiple characters with hardly any cuts. And the cuts that are there are so seamless and inventive that any editor would be amaze at what they are watching. It’s crazy how entertaining this indie is, even with the limited budget it still hooks you in from the beginning and I would say the ending works for me. Because it is the one moment of the film that utilizes silence which up until the ending the film is non stop wall to wall dialogue. It is both beautiful and haunting that works to make us the audience question what we just watch. With this being a first timer director he makes the ending ambiguous enough to not give us all the answers. We have to consider what just happened and for some reason I love that about this movie.
9/10 - DirectorDavid PriorStarsJames Badge DaleMarin IrelandSasha FrolovaOn the trail of a missing girl, an ex-cop comes across a secretive group attempting to summon a terrifying supernatural entity.Yes it is good. But yes I know this is not for everyone. It is not perfect. Some of the acting is piss poor and the ending to me is very predictable. I did call the ending. But here is the thing, this movie is freaking weird. It is a movie that is strange and on the surface it does seem like your average horror film from the 2010’s. But like Sinister, Hereditary, and yes even The Wailing this movie will twist when you think it is going to turn. I didn’t put in noticeably a lot of other good adult horror movies because those movies dive into the lore which expands the horror to go past than just your usual dark figure killer movie. Yes, The Empty Man could have been your usual dark murderous figure that is the only threat the movie has. But that is not the only horror theme in this horror movie. This is a thriller, a really good mystery that keeps you guessing what the heck is going on, and lastly a pretty well executed if not very flimsy drama. The drama aspect is the only part of the film that I didn’t enjoy a whole lot. I mean James Badge Dale is your typical damage male lead here. You know a drinker with a dark past who can’t emotionally connect with anyone because of what has previously happened. You have seen it before. But gosh damn if James Badge Dale ain’t damn good in this movie. Seriously this guy is so freaking good in this movie it is a shame that he is not getting the same level of love someone like Ethan Hawke got in Sinister. Or Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga in the Conjuring films where these actors got so much out of these huge horror blockbusters. He is just as good. Yes the movie does go to some places that will confuse some people but I’m telling you if you stick with this movie it will leave you more satisfied than confused. I understand that some people just want to watch horror films where people die and the killer at the end meets his or her end. But this is not that film. It is a cliche at this point to say this movie stayed with me. But holy crap their is a chunk in the middle of this movie that has stayed with me. Like after it ended I said holy shit. Horror movies like this are not easily digestible but every once a while a horror film that tries to do something different from the mold will captivate a certain number of its audience who will no doubt go with this movie for the wild ride it is. I happen to be one of those audience members who allowed this film to wash over me. This is a bad ass flick that holds no punches and go to places that will lose some people but damn I was along for the ride and I didn’t want this movie to stop. Even tho where movies and mini series are blending together but even at 2 hrs and 17 minutes I feel like I got what I wanted without needing more time or even needed any time to be cut. I feel like every frame is as important to move forward the narrative than most people will not consider. One of my new favorite horror films in recent memory.
9/10 - DirectorGavin O'ConnorStarsBen AffleckAl MadrigalJanina GavankarJack Cunningham was a high school basketball phenom who walked away from the game, forfeiting his future. Years later, when he reluctantly accepts a coaching job at his alma mater, he may get one last shot at redemption.This is my kinda movie. I really liked it from all aspects of filmmaking. The performances from all involved are really good , but of course this is Ben Affleck’s movie and he nails it just as an actor but also to make an audience believe that this is a real life human being with some truly rough scenes to watch. The cinematography isn’t too much to rave about but I found the script really good and the small details makes this film better than most sports movies. As the editing really puts you into the game and makes you invested and easy to watch what is going on. That is why I really like this movie.
9/10 - DirectorSteve McQueenStarsNeal BarryJack BenceStephen BoxerSpotlights the true story of Leroy Logan, who at a young age saw his father assaulted by two policemen, motivating him to join the Metropolitan Police and change their racist attitudes from within.Red, White and Blue is amazing. I haven’t watch all the Small Axe films yet but I do have high hopes if they are all as good as Red, White and Blue. I chose this one first because of John Boyega. I heard he gives a powerhouse performance and no lies detected. He gives it his all in this well timely film about not just police brutality but for me the big take away is that it is easier to blend in than it is to break the mold. To me that is as meaningful and important because of what has been happening. This was shot before the 2020 BLM movement but again this tale will also be a topic of conversation for years and decades to come.
9/10 - DirectorJenny PopplewellStarsNickole AtkinsonJim BenemannLuke EppleIn 2018, 34-year-old Shanann Watts and her two young daughters disappear in Colorado. With the heartbreaking details emerging, the family's story made headlines around the world.I remember this story so I knew the tragic take it was going to lead into which made so much harder to watch. First of all we have to remember that people back when this was happening on his side. Which brings my mind back to all these serial killer docs about these horrible disgusting men and these women who try to defend their actions. Which this doc shows at the end how history repeats itself. That is just below to what this evil disgusting trash excuse of a human being did to his family. It is hard for anyone who doesn’t even know this story to watch. It is a well put together documentary that because it is from body cams from cops, security cams, and Facebook post that really captures these people who can’t speak for themselves. It is really sad and seriously fuck this guy with all my heart. I hate even calling him a guy that is how much I’m furious by his actions that it makes me sick knowing what he has done. It is just furious to see that sub title and how accurate it fits what goes down and the statistics about murder from spouses is just sickening. I don’t know man after watching this really made just sick those poor girls it is just truly sad. And again I didn’t know he came out and try to put the blame on the wife first but I knew like 80% of this story. But they are more to this story.
9/10 - DirectorLeigh WhannellStarsElisabeth MossOliver Jackson-CohenHarriet DyerWhen Cecilia's abusive ex takes his own life and leaves her his fortune, she suspects his death was a hoax. As a series of coincidences turn lethal, Cecilia works to prove that she is being hunted by someone nobody can see.The movie may not be perfect or a revelation of cinema but holy crap does Leigh Whanall and star Elizabeth Moss makes this one awesome and hell of a ride. When it comes down to scares this film has it, when it comes to electric camera work to invite the audience in on the action. But some of the twist and turns can be called from a mile away. But again Elizabeth Moss is in every scene and she carries this film on her shoulders. The 2 hrs just fly by and it is an awesome ride.
9/10 - DirectorBrandon CronenbergStarsAndrea RiseboroughChristopher AbbottJennifer Jason LeighAn agent works for a secretive organization that uses brain-implant technology to inhabit other people's bodies - ultimately driving them to commit assassinations for high-paying clients.I will always be in the mood for some original trippy science fiction body horror. And this is it. It is very weird tho because while it is a slow pace movie a lot happens. The way David Cronenberg lets his movie be fast moving while at the same time slow paced is amazing. It is pretty short as well I mean it says 1h and 43m but ultimately it is an hour and a half. But it never dragged I was always captivated as what was happening on screen. Mainly because I had no idea what was going on. Not in the Tenet way of not knowing what is going on no matter how many people try explain what is going on. This truly is the less said the better. Because no one is holding your hand explaining what’s going on showing a gruesome and I mean gruesome scene and then waiting for the next person to explain what the hell just happen. Trying to put the pieces together yourself while the movie is happening is part of the fun. But honestly tho it is not perfect. Inconsistency’s a big problem with this movie and some things happened way too conveniently for the main character to move along to the next scene. My other problem is a very conflicted one. Because I love violence I mean this film is brutal and it never shy away from the brutality. I mean this thing is a meaty punch. With a kick ass lead assassin from Andrea Riseborough. It’s funny cause I recently saw another female led action film that is pretty bad. Again unlike Tenet I do have a desire to go back and watch that film because I got what I got out of that film. This film is something that I do want to go back and watch so it might actually go up on my list but as of right now it is not too high.
8/10 - DirectorRic Roman WaughStarsGerard ButlerMorena BaccarinRoger Dale FloydA family struggles for survival in the face of a cataclysmic natural disaster.Holy crap do I love this movie. It is so refreshing to watch a film that has wait for it, a good script. This script is amazing and the characters are so damn good but not overly good, for example trying to hard for the audience to like them. Gerald Butler is flawed and he is not the everyday hero like you see in a lot of disaster movies with over narration or hell cracking jokes every 5 minutes. He is so pulled back that I actually bought him being an everyday guy. To be fair it is a disaster movie so you can only go as far as you can with a story like this. It is a non stop thrill ride that has no time to stop because it is a ticking clock to stay alive. So that initial threat is actually scary. To me I was frighted and feared for this family. Morena Baccarin also I have to say in the beginning I didn’t like her character until a certain point I felt for her and got where she is coming from. The kid is also pretty good. But I have to say Ric Roman Waugh has been killing it. As a director, Shot Caller, Angel Has Fallen, and Greenland have been an amazing range he has done with very minimal budget he has. The relationship Gerald and Ric are reminding me of Cruise and Christopher relationship they been having. So this duo is also very exciting to see what they do next. I really enjoyed this movie and couldn’t recommend this movie more. Yes you have seen this movie before, but duller and less serious. This is a very taunt and intense movie with excellent acting and directing this movie rocks.
9/10 - DirectorJohn HyamsStarsJules WillcoxMarc MenchacaAnthony HealdA recently widowed traveler is kidnapped by a cold blooded killer, only to escape into the wilderness where she is forced to battle against the elements as her pursuer closes in on her.This is an old fashion lean and mean 90 minute thrill ride. Alone is your typical lost in the woods being hunted type movie and for the better it reminds me of this book I have been reading The Passenger. Sure another movie that came out in 2018 called What We Live For is basically the same movie but a lot of movies take this idea and try to make something of their own. Not only is the lead a very smart and bad ass person you route for I was genuinely curious to see what will happen next. These type of movies work better with silence not knowing when or what will happen next is all part of the fun. Only a couple of times I made a o cmon type moment when stupidity hit but it is actually pretty smart screenplay and knows how to handle the phone situation. These type of movies work best when you are in the shoes of the many character and she does the things you would do in the situation. So as a 90 minute thriller you really can’t go wrong.
8/10 - DirectorJustin BensonAaron MoorheadStarsAnthony MackieJamie DornanKatie AseltonTwo New Orleans paramedics' lives are ripped apart after they encounter a series of horrific deaths linked to a designer drug with bizarre, otherworldly effects.
- DirectorJoe MantelloStarsJim ParsonsZachary QuintoMatt BomerAt a birthday party in 1968 New York, a surprise guest and a drunken game leave seven gay friends reckoning with unspoken feelings and buried truths.It does go on for a little too long but that being said this cast does it best to move you along to stay and watch. The story is very simple a group of friends join together to celebrate a friends birthday. You probably think two hours of that can get pretty boring. But from the get go I was so invested to go along and just enjoy myself. Which I did. I laugh I had a real good time with this movie. The cast is a big help but I want to touch on the actual dialogue that is pulse pounding entertaining as hell. This is like Tarantino type of wit and charm. I mean listen I’m pretty sure in real life no one actually talks it’s only in movies where this sort of stuff happens. Because this is based off of a stage play and a majority of this film takes place in a house you really can feel claustrophobic watching this. Which is something I never like but I can see that being a plus for some people. Back to the writing because at least I was enjoying something while being stuck inside Jim Parsons’ apartment. Which I have not just the acting is obviously good because these are competent actors who get the job done but they can channel some real gut punching lines that will leave you convinced you are not watching actors. Seriously this is some of the best acting of the year because for the first time in a while I wasn’t seeing actors play characters I legit saw these characters and myself giving them my undivided attention. Now onto the cast. Jim Parsons in the beginning is lovable and is totally being Sheldon but it is the second half which is where he takes a darker turn and you see just how cruel someone him can be. And again I didn’t see Jim Parsons he really owned this role. Zachary Quinto has never been better I always gravitate towards background characters who watch from afar and make quick remarks because that is something I would myself. And he is not the lead or I wouldn’t say the co lead. The story does center around him because it is his birthday they are celebrating but his calm and cool demeanor is something to admire at. Matt Bomer proves that Hollywood is seriously not taking this guy serious or the great potential he could be. He should be leading a $100+ million dollar franchise because he is just so damn good and a true friend to Michael no matter how rude he gets. But my favorite two performances and also storyline is Andrew Rannells and Tuc Watkins. Brilliant and heartbreaking watching these two on screen. The rest of the cast is really good and if you have two hours to kill I would say this movie is not a bad way to spend it. On a side note as a 20 year old something straight male I have no idea what gay men have gone through hell let alone what it was like in the 50’s no less. But this isn’t a society struggle gay movie instead it is a self sabotage struggle movie. These characters just happen to be gay. Sadly it’s these men who are having trouble loving themselves and having others love them. Which makes it even more tragic. That is what makes this movie special.
8/10 - DirectorChristopher NolanStarsJohn David WashingtonRobert PattinsonElizabeth DebickiArmed with only the word "Tenet," and fighting for the survival of the entire world, CIA operative, The Protagonist, journeys through a twilight world of international espionage on a global mission that unfolds beyond real time.Like most film lovers Nolan can do no wrong. And like new film fans we can see what Nolan gets wrong. Seriously him, Tarantino are untouchable when they release a new project and I feel like this new age of filmmakers are picking up where they left off. Not to say they still can’t make great movies but the Mementos, Pulp Fiction, Insomnia, Jackie Brown, and Reservoir Dogs days are over for these two filmmakers. And nothing is wrong with that it is just an observation what there career has become. And the reason why I’m comparing QT and Nolan is because their last two films are great looking, beautifully acted with one exception, awesome scenes of action and violence, and of course willing to tell original stories that no studio would dare to intervene with the story telling. And that is the biggest problem with both OUATIH and Tenet is the script and the writing get in the way of the story they are trying to tell. Like I said Nolan is no joke when it comes to making movies that is a damn sure. Only he can put together something this insane this thought provoking and thrilling in action set piece after action set piece. The movie tho really does grab your attention with the time inversion technique and hopes you follow along and does not hold your hand. Which again would be ideal for a Summer blockbuster because we hardly get any of these types of movies. But every line in this movie is either exposition for the time inversion which still have no idea how it completely works or the other half is actually the best part which is Kenneth Branagh Bond villain type being the best part in this movie. Even Robert Battison is really good in this role but we know nothing about him or they are not hints as to what he brings to the table. At least John David Washington proves in the beginning that he cares about his team but I still find it hard to believe what is making him protect Elizabeth Debicki and her son. Who he has never met. And it is a trope I’m really getting tired off. But at least it is their. Which actually makes me realize something. Nolan for all his greatness is not that great with writing female characters. He does at least try here with two female characters who are not the same and I appreciate that part that these are not the same two characters. So that is a plus but since I am talking about JDW it hurts me to tell say that he might be the weakest part of the film. Right next to the script. He’s fine and I’m glad to see an African American lead a $200 plus million dollar film. Seriously it’s impressive and when he is doing the action scenes he is great but how much is him and the stunt double. One last note two things that people have a problem with Nolan are the sound design which yes can be a problem at times but that didn’t bother me but also and this was my awakening is that people have called his films cold. Comparing him and Kubrick which I call totally bs on. Both filmmakers are capable pulling emotion in many of their films. Interstellar is emotional, Inception has heart and compassion which makes you route for the characters, hell even Dunkirk has more emotional pull that Tenet. Seriously I have always pushed back on people calling Nolan a cold filmmaker but after seeing Tent I can honestly say I see it all now. Overall I do like the movie. It is one of his weaker movies which is a shame because I love Nolan I would be considered a Nolan fan boy and I still am but this is just a missed opportunity from a story telling aspect and even the dialogue isn’t memorable in the slightest way possible. But I have to say this is one hell of a ride which I was glad to be apart of and hopefully one day I can rewatch it again. At home of course hell f- going to the movies again this might be the last time I go until there is a vaccine. I didn’t have a bad experience I took all of the precautions but still I would much rather say home and watch this movie. Nolan don’t know the set up I got at my house, it works for me and forget eating at the movies at least at home I can get up eat and drink whatever I want without disturbing others.
8/10 - DirectorCharlie KaufmanStarsJesse PlemonsJessie BuckleyToni ColletteFull of misgivings, a young woman travels with her new boyfriend to his parents' secluded farm. Upon arriving, she comes to question everything she thought she knew about him, and herself.I’ll say this even tho I saw the ending or who is playing who but the way the story is untold is something it took me a while to understand. I mean this is a random as hell of a movie. Which to me I got and understood more in this movie than I did in Tenet. Which is a weird double feature because these movies are almost identical about time and how not to view everything linear. Both films are thriving for being trippy and one film benefits for being deep for the audience to watch it more than once. But that is Tenet for me I’m glad to have watch this once and no desire to watch it ever again but for that reason I never took this film serious and that is not a bad thing. I am not saying that as a negative instead it is a positive because it makes the viewing of the movie more enjoyable. I enjoyed the randomness of this movie and was willing to go along for this insane and crazy adventure because I did let the movie just go and listen to the dialogue and watch this incredible cinematography. It is a nice fun watch and a trippy movie at that. The ending tho is well a little confusing. I mean hell the reason why I don’t love this movie like a lot of people are falling head over heels for this movie. Because again I didn’t take this film as serious or philosophical because it does have deep meaning about memories and aging. Not getting old but aging and how our memories will try to reflect our lives but it’s so obvious that this film is about one thing. I don’t think this film is any deeper than people think and for me is what I assume and what maybe the author intended is to not see things as a straight line and to not take things so serious. The title does have a double meaning which is something I like and it only dawned on me when the meaning of the title switches characters or does it? I do like it but not a whole lot.
8/10 - DirectorAutumn de WildeStarsAnya Taylor-JoyJohnny FlynnMia GothIn 1800s England, a well meaning but selfish young woman meddles in the love lives of her friends.It is a very charming and at times very entertaining to watch. Everyone will say the costumes and the performances are great and they are really well. To me my favorite thing about this movie is how it is framed. Multiple times I said out loud wow these are some great shots. The camera placement in this movie is second to none especially when they are on carriages and the dance scene is a great example of what I’m talking about. Also the beginning is very hard to get into to me at least. But my favorite season section in the movie is Summer. Also yes Anya is great but bravo to the rest of cast who manages to keep you engage throughout the whole film. It is very enjoyable for people who like period pieces. And this is a really good.
8/10 - DirectorDavid FincherStarsGary OldmanAmanda SeyfriedLily Collins1930s Hollywood is re-evaluated through the eyes of scathing social critic and alcoholic screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz as he races to finish the screenplay of Citizen Kane (1941).It is a directors movie. Meaning that sounds as boring to some but exciting to others to watch this film like watching an old movie. Yes David Fincher is probably one of the best in the game right now. Gone Girl is the last film he directed and it has been six years so in the mean time he killed it with Mindhunter. Which is also on Netflix so I implore you to watch one of the best tv shows made in the new millennium. Aside from being one of the most exciting engaging shows ever made almost the complete opposite. This film again just like Tarantino’s OUATIH and Nolan’s Tenet it is a cold and not an engaging enough of a film. It is so damn expertly made film from sound and beautiful cinematography to also Trent Renzor score which Fincher is a bad ass at mixing it so damn well with some scenes. He is a perfectionist and it shows, with the dialogue, some shots look straight out of a painting, and I mean it goes without saying the acting is phenomenal. But I think one performance is not getting enough respect and lost in the crowd. Tuppence Middleton as Mank’s wife is probably the one character who is the most inviting character who you actually feel for throughout the whole movie. Quite like Scorsese’s The Irishman Ana Paquion she is the one character who the audience may actually find something to gravitate towards. Other actors in both movies are great as acting goes and I would love to study this acting as these actors are speeding thur some lines with ease. It is amazing to watch but even with all the alcoholism Mank goes into he really does just come off as an incompetent drunk where I think he could have been someone who is driven by alcoholism with his job and the pressure it has. Which is why I wished the film took a similar approach with his gambling. To me his gambling addiction is more subtle and that actual got to me more than him being an alcoholic. Which is fine but the story to me doesn’t pick up until the third act and that is a problem also the poster is a freaking lie. He never gets on a table and starts yelling at all these rich snobs about how wrong they are if anything they laugh him out of the room. Gary Oldman is always great and again his line reading is second to none with greatness to watch. So if you love directing and acting yeah watch it but I don’t think this is a life changing experience which again why Tenet is not a slam dunk of a film like we wanted it to. But I am excited to see what Fincher has to show us next because he is a great director.
8/10 - DirectorJason OrleyStarsGriffin GluckLarry John MeyersMichael DevineA suburban teenager comes of age under the destructive guidance of his best friend, an aimless college dropout.I love this movie. Holy crap this movie had me laughing so hard. I wasn’t really expecting to like this movie so much. Flat out amazing from the two lead awesome and hilarious performances really kick this movie into high gear. This movie actually has consequences and not too dramatic but it took the realistic route which is something I truly admire. Watch it on Hulu cause there is nothing in theaters right now to watch so watch this and have a great freaking time.
9/10 - DirectorSofia CoppolaStarsBill MurrayRashida JonesMarlon WayansA young mother reconnects with her larger-than-life playboy father on an adventure through New York.It’s funny cause this premiered the same weekend another father daughter comedy drama was released. Borat 2 does have a sweeter ending but I really enjoyed this film. And I actually prefer this film over Borat 2. By every aspect from direction to writing to yes even comedy. The fact that I laughed more at a Sofia Coppola film rather than a Borat film says a lot. And it wasn’t like it was one scene of laughter and that was it, no I was getting a kick out of this movie from all the performances. Except from Marlon Waynes. Yes Marlon Waynes is the least funny person in the movie. Bill is still as charming as his skin holds him together and that is a compliment because he still looks damn good. Hell is slamming more chicks in his old age than I am in my young age. Rashida Jones takes a co lead role which honestly I would never have thought she would get a chance like this. She does dabble a lot in tv which you would think she can’t lead a film but again she proves an actor acts. Sofia Coppola has made some good movies before but this to me is something I can get behind and recommend to almost anybody.
8/10 - DirectorRyan MurphyStarsMeryl StreepJames CordenNicole KidmanA troupe of hilariously self-obsessed theater stars swarm into a small conservative Indiana town in support of a high-school girl who wants to take her girlfriend to the prom.Screw it. I laughed, cheered, and cried. This movie for ever how long it is never over stayed its welcomed because of the good time I had watching this very joyous experience to have. Listen when you have been locked up in your home for 9 months a movie that has this much heart into it will get something emotional out of me. It also helps to bring out the tears when Jo Ellen Pellman and Ariana DeBose are just so damn good in this movie. Truly magnificent to see two bright up and comers be so damn likable that damn when their heart breaks your heart breaks. Yeah the rest of the cast is there and with the exception of Keegan Michael Key and Andrew Rannells are also really good and likable. The last two songs I have to say are the best and even Love Thy Neighbor is also really good. I had a great time watching this film.
9/10 - DirectorDavid MarmorStarsNicole Brydon BloomGiles MattheyTaylor NicholsSarah tries to start anew in LA, but her neighbours are not what they seem.Do you remember a 2015 movie called The Invitation starring Upgrade star Logan Marshall-Green. Where this is pretty much literally the same movie with even the same ending. But this film actually does what that film gets wrong for me and gets right. It gets to the point quicker and is much more awkward feeling throughout the movie. I feel like the direction and writing here are top notch and this feels like a film Mike Flanagan or David F. Sandberg would direct early in there career. The only thing holding this film back for me is the acting. Some of the acting even from the lead are pretty bland and just plain bad. But I have to say that ending for me is much more better than that film because of the impact it has. Seriously it pretty much is the same movie. But I like the uneasy feeling this film has and this is a white knuckle thriller that is brutal and all fun which is something we all need right now. It is on Netflix so check this film out.
8/10 - DirectorSam FederStarsLaverne CoxBianca LeighJen RichardsAn in-depth look at Hollywood's depiction of transgender people and the impact of those stories on transgender lives and American culture.Which makes this documentary very interesting is how people apart of the LGBTQI+ community see themselves in a different part of history. Not the start of transgender people but instead how media can be use as a positive representation. Which dawned on me while I was watching the documentary. Because honestly those are the only opinions that truly matter when talking about representation. It is a very informative documentary as well about media which already increased my interest because this is something that I find truly interesting. How media can work as a tool to help people from all spectrums of the world see themselves in a positive light where they are not given it in the real world. Which even before you say well that’s not realistic yes these people in this documentary are aware of what they see on screen is not a reflection of real life but instead what they wished it could. And don’t we all do that when we watch movies and tv. It’s a great documentary which I hope people even not from the LGBTQI+ like myself take the time to see why positive stories and representation are important to tell. But I already knew that however I didn’t know what people from the trans community thought of this, which made me like this doc so much more.
9/10 - DirectorGina Prince-BythewoodStarsCharlize TheronKiKi LayneMatthias SchoenaertsA covert team of immortal mercenaries is suddenly exposed and must now fight to keep their identity a secret just as an unexpected new member is discovered.A very fun and exciting action film with some actual stakes with this feeling someone can die. Actual die. Several times I actually believed that it would be their last time they get to come back. The whole cast is great together even The Old Guard team are awesome and pull off the fight scenes with ease. The villain could have been a little better and one villain in particular who has a change of motivation that is kinda ridiculous. It could have been better. But even putting that aside it is still a really good action film with some bad ass characters who I would really love to see a sequel. The action may not be high octane but it is still visibly seen and you can feel the punches and bullets going into them. It is a very fun ride that I’m glad to have seen. I wouldn’t have mind seeing this on the big screen but it was nice to watch it at home. But huge shoutout to my boy Matthias S. Who played Booker. He is awesome and I loved what they did with his character. Honestly I’m probably more excited to see the sequel of this film because the set up during this film was handed so well but even this film itself was still good to hold up on its own.
8/10 - DirectorJonathan MilottCary MurnionStarsLulu WilsonKevin JamesJoel McHaleA teenager's weekend at a lake house with her father takes a turn for the worse when a group of convicts wreaks havoc on their lives.This movie isn’t Shakespeare or the next Nolan film but this is a full on bloody exploitation film that will make any gore hound love this movie. A serious misstep is Shudder not acquiring this film to be a Shudder original. Seriously this would have been a great film for that streaming service. Make no mistake this is not a perfect film, but it is the film for me the type I would love to make. Die Hard meets Home Alone what more could you love. First Kevin James is amazing in this film and I will not say that lightly because I am not a fan of the guy. And honestly the rest of the cast is pretty good but the main driving focus is Lulu Wilson who is awesome. She is brutal and just like Die Hard you do cheer her on and route for her to get what she wants. It is a real joy to watch and I’m a huge action horror fan and the more gore the better and this has plenty of it. Get some popcorn grab a beer and enjoy the hell out of this film.
9/10 - DirectorIsabel SandovalStarsEamon FarrenLynn CohenLev GornAn undocumented Filipina transwoman falls in love in Brooklyn.I’ll try my best to make this sound like a compliment but it does feel like a festival film. Which that does come with its own merits. For example some festival movies are done with a low budget and don’t have much to say. Some tho do have big names attached and those are the ones that get the most attention. This little film however doesn’t have a huge star attached to it and it does fit that low key type of movie. I do have to say with the subject matter that this film tackles I never felt preached to. Yes it has a liberal agenda one which I stand by completely but it points the finger at the everyday individual. Those who are rarely seen in a positive light. So our lead here does deal with some heavy subject matter. And if anything we see it take a toll on her. Expertly I might add because it is not over the top in any way. This is the type of film I can honestly say anyone can tune into and get something out of it. It can hard hitting when it wants to be but it can also be uplifting in certain areas. Which is something I wanted out of this film. It did leave me wanting more which I don’t know if it is a good thing or not. Because at the end I did feel like I was missing something. The movie is only something like 80 minutes long so I have a feeling I should go back because I do like this movie quite a bit but I just don’t love it.
8/10 - DirectorJames LebrechtNicole NewnhamStarsJames LebrechtLionel Je'WoodyardJoseph O'ConorDown the road from Woodstock, a revolution blossomed at a ramshackle summer camp for teenagers with disabilities, transforming their lives and igniting a landmark movement.
- DirectorMiranda JulyStarsRichard JenkinsDebra WingerEvan Rachel WoodA woman's life is turned upside down when her criminal parents invite an outsider to join them on a major heist they're planning.The O’Doyle’s rule.
- DirectorRoseanne LiangStarsChloë Grace MoretzNick RobinsonBeulah KoaleA female WWII pilot traveling with top secret documents on a B-17 Flying Fortress encounters an evil presence on board the flight.I thought it was awesome. It’s only 83 minutes long and it freaking rocks. Chloë Grace Moretz has never been better, the special effects are also top notch and entirely realistic. I like how most of the movie takes place in one confined space. Nick Robinson is always fun to watch but this is Chloë Grace Moretz movie through and through. So she nails it. I love a lean and mean bare bones film that knows what it is and an explosive of a good time.
8/10 it’s awesome. - DirectorShawn LindenStarsCamille SullivanSummer H. HowellDevon SawaJoseph and his family live in the remote wilderness as fur trappers, but their tranquility is threatened when they think they are being hunted by the return of a rogue wolf, and Joseph leaves them behind to track it.This ending is insane. You really have to see it to believe it. First half is actually really good and it makes you believe you are watching one film. Then the last half is not a complete 180 but it is a little change of pace that boom when that ending hits you honestly can’t take your eyes off the screen. I have to say there is a lot of talk about modern movies having an agenda but here is a movie that again has one motive and go for broke stays on that path until the very end. It is a crazy of an ending that please check this film out and watch it.
8/10 - DirectorJustin SimienStarsZaria KelleyCorinne MassiahElle LorraineIn 1989 an ambitious young woman gets a weave in order to succeed in the image-obsessed world of music television. However, her flourishing career may come at a great cost when she realizes that her new hair may have a mind of its own.I wasn’t loving this movie in the beginning. I mean it is well shot and well acted. But strangely unlike most movies now days this third act packs in so much of the scares, thrills, and even laughs. I wasn’t a huge fan of Dear White People either. The movie that is never watched the show, however with this being the directors second film I see a huge improvement. With acting, writing, and I love his movement with the camera. He doesn’t just put the camera down and let the actors act. Instead his camera is following our lead with every move. A new and surprising lead was a nice change of pace. Most of the cast is new actors who are new to me is what makes me like this movie more and more. Because her arc is screenwriting 101. Especially for this type of movie. It actually reminded me a lot of Venom in most parts and I love body horror and this is a great body horror film that I have been waiting for.
8/10 - DirectorHarry BradbeerStarsMillie Bobby BrownHenry CavillSam ClaflinWhen Enola Holmes (Sherlock's teen sister) discovers her mother is missing, she endeavours to find her, becoming a super-sleuth in her own right as she outwits her famous brother and unravels a dangerous conspiracy.It’s a very fun lighthearted adventure. I have been waiting for a good mystery and it is nice to see a film that is a bare bones witty and affectionate story of a young woman trying to find her place in the world where it is set upon for others to make decisions for them. MBB is really good here and really likable. She kinda reminded me of Jill Valentine from the Resident Evil franchise. To me this is a very fun enjoyable film that keeps its pacing racing thru to the very end. Even HAC storyline I was invested in because this was something women in England were fighting for hell all over the world. But it is matched with Enola and her own story of trying to solve this other mystery that is equally exciting and engaging. The remaining cast Superman and Sam Claffin are both extremely perfectly cast and even tho they might not have big parts they are still a real pleasure to see light up the screen. It is not perfect but it is a fast and enjoyable film that doesn’t over do breaking the 4th wall too much which is something I always appreciate.
8/10 - DirectorEugene KotlyarenkoStarsJoe KeeryDavid ArquetteJoshua OvalleThirsty for a following, Kurt Kunkle is a rideshare driver who has figured out a deadly plan to go viral.This is a great double feature with this film and Host. Both movies are filmed all different type of the found footage genre has evolved over the years. But holy crap this film is so good. Let me get the negatives out of the way, for one it loses steam towards the third act where it typically turns into something that I for one saw coming compared to the rest of the film where it was very unpredictable in where this film was going. But the third act is saved by that incredible ending credits that really wraps what the film is driving home by what the social media fame does to people and the the type of people who thrive to succeed fame. We are experiencing this on a day to day basis of seeing the lengths people will go, hell a guy just got arrested for pulling a heist prank. This is far off. I mean sick disgusting idiots post vids of themselves claiming to kill people before they do and then the news and media outlets put it out there for millions of people to see. But nevertheless this is still one of the most inventive and crazy film I have seen all year. It truly inspires me to see a film like this made this way to fully understand their are still different ways to make films. I honestly can’t stress how much the ending hits the nail on the head of the overall message of this film. Because without Joe Keery’s amazing and phenomenal performance this film will not be anything without him. He shines and proves he is a great actor. If Steve wasn’t already my favorite character in ST then this just solidifies why.
8/10 - DirectorRob SavageStarsHaley BishopJemma MooreEmma Louise WebbSix friends hire a medium to hold a seance via Zoom during lockdown, but they get far more than they bargained for as things quickly go wrong.If you love being scared like me then holy crap you will love this movie. 2020 has had a lot to offer and how quickly a movie was able to be made during quarantine was bound to happen. Hell Zday and Denzel’s son made a whole movie which will probably be longer than this. But for now this film is a nice surprise because this scared the crap out of me. Like wow I love how scary this movie is. I am not easily scared and yes I called all the jump scares. Like from a mile away I saw all the techniques a low budget horror film like this will do. Slam doors, objects moving, and of course flour. It’s all their. But I love every minute of this very short film because it is under a hour but I felt more satisfied watching this film than I have with some films that are well over a hour and a half. It is a paranormal film and it does have a lot of similarities with that film. Hell even Unfriended did this film but I like this film better because it got to its point faster and scarier. Like I was clinching my toes together like there was no tomorrow. All horror fans should watch this at night and like me alone, or unlike me watch it with a bunch of people and get scared the crap out of. 2020 is fitting with some of the scariest films to go along with the scariest year we have had. It sucks.
8/10 - DirectorClea DuVallStarsKristen StewartMackenzie DavisMary SteenburgenA holiday romantic comedy that captures the range of emotions tied to wanting your family's acceptance, being true to yourself, and trying not to ruin Christmas.I got to say Mackenzie Davis did some terrible things in this movie almost to a point where I was screaming at KStewart to just leave her. Seriously I was screaming you can do better you don’t deserve this. Because I was getting mad that she hasn’t told her parents that Mackenzie Davis’ character is gay and that KStewart is supposedly her straight roommate. I mean it is a classic Hollywood mix up and it is your typical holiday misunderstanding family comedy drama. And on that front it is a funny movie. Dan Levy is really funny but also scene stealer and co writer Mary Holland is really funny but also heartbreaking at the same time. I would be lying if I didn’t cry because a couple of times it got to me. But also it is not a movie that so heavy handed with the idea of acceptance. Yes it has elements of that and Dan Levy has one moment in particular that shows that not everyone is accepting. But it is not just about being gay or acceptance of homosexuality but also just not being perfect. Especially in the eyes of people who raised you to be perfect your whole life. I got that at the end. But when KStewart started to cry I began to cry because I did feel for her pain and it was just a nice sweet holiday movie anyone can enjoy. Along at the end I was coming around so I wasn’t hating on Mackenzie Davis’ Harper that much but so I was glad they did end up together because it is nice to see a happy ending every once and a while. It truly is the happiest season. At least for me.
8/10 - DirectorMax BarbakowStarsAndy SambergCristin MiliotiJ.K. SimmonsStuck in a time loop, two wedding guests develop a budding romance while living the same day over and over again.Probably the biggest surprise not of the Summer but of the year. Which isn’t that hard but this is the film. A very funny cast that lightens up some much needed time because it is not even 90 minutes. It is at a break neck speed with fast and funny dialogue that I never got bored of. Both of these characters are so damn likable and charming it is almost contagious. Do I think it needed to be the most expensive movie to be bought out of any festival, no. Plus it does seem like a waste if they were going to release it on a streaming service but it was nice to watch it at home. Even if it did have an original plan to open in theaters before the pandemic hit, Neon studios haven’t been rolling in the box office with any of their films. But this was a nice surprise and had plenty of laughs with a nice twist on an old genre.
8/10 - DirectorAdil El ArbiBilall FallahStarsWill SmithMartin LawrenceVanessa HudgensMiami detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett must face off against a mother-and-son pair of drug lords who wreak vengeful havoc on their city.The bad boys are back and better than ever. Fun, action pack, and extremely funny. The duo directors here are able to create this simple story to feel epic and have some weight to it. I felt like the story made this seem important and you feel for not only for Marcus and Mike but for the whole cast of characters who want the same thing. Also if I can get a little political this film doesn't get political about the race nor gender. What I mean by that is the villains who are apart of the Mexican Cartel but that isn't their motive. I remember when Rami Malek took the Bond villain role he said he doesn't want to type cats as a stereotypical Middle Eastern villain. Instead a villain who has its own motive and not tied to anything out of reach. Im looking at you last blood.
8/10 - DirectorJudd ApatowStarsPete DavidsonBel PowleyRicky VelezScott has been a case of arrested development since his firefighter dad died. He spends his days smoking weed and dreaming of being a tattoo artist until events force him to grapple with his grief and take his first steps forward in life.
- DirectorBridget Savage ColeDanielle KrudyStarsDavid CoffinDavid PridemoreAdam Wolf MayersonMary Beth and Priscilla Connolly attempt to cover up a gruesome run-in with a dangerous man. To conceal their crime, the sisters must go deep into the criminal underbelly of their hometown, uncovering the town's darkest secrets.Holy crap. What a fresh and fun movie to be hold. Both lead performances from the two young women are outstanding and stand out from some veteran actors. It is not just the acting that is good but the editing is tightly paced which makes this flow so fast that the time flys by without ever noticing. Among the acting, the editing, the beautiful cinematography, but the score and the song that shares the same title is so damn entertaining to listen to. It really matches with the story in which every beat matches the tone to make every situation more serious. If you hate it when movies add in jokes where it is suppose to be a high stake situation this film doesn’t have that. Which is a nice change of pace, but I don’t want that type of humor to go away.
8/10 - DirectorIl ChoJo Il HyungMadeleine MartinStarsYoo Ah-inPark Shin-hyeJeon Bae-sooThe rapid spread of an unknown infection has left an entire city in ungovernable chaos, but one survivor remains alive in isolation. It is his story.I didn’t expect to like this movie so much. After the disappointment of Train to Busan 2: Peninsula I really needed my zombie fix. Zombie movies are usually my favorite sub genre of horror films. Because you really can take the zombie genre in any direction it is all about the script and direction. Which are all top notch seriously they are some really good shots in this movie and really great performances especially from a really likable lead actor. He was really good in a more connectable way he wasn’t in Burning. He is great in Burning but vastly different. He isn’t the smartest character in a zombie movie but the relatability factor of him is what keeps myself and probably many others touting for him to survive. It is a very fast moving funny and surprising touching near the end. I mean it if you didn’t enjoy the high octane action pack violence that is Train to Busan 2 than this will more than fulfill that itch.
8/10