Mini-Reviews - 2022 Edition
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Usually, I prepare this type of article near the end of each year and upload mini-reviews that I have in store for a few films I didn't have time to write a full opinion piece on. I'm going to do things differently in 2022 so that I can publish my thoughts on every movie I see this year without missing a single one.
Therefore, this article will contain the same concise opinions you've seen in other pieces like this. Small reviews of some movies I can't afford the time to write 800+ words on due to external situations that might occur in my life. In most cases, these are going to be films that won't have that much of an impact on my year-end reflection of the best movies I've seen in 2022.
This section will be updated each time I add a new entry, as well as its date of publication, so these compact opinions can be seen by everyone at any time.
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery Emancipation TGOTG Holiday Special Bones and All
Spirited The Wonder Dear Zoe Wendell & Wild
The Good Nurse The Stranger Werewolf by Night Smile
Lou Pearl Do Revenge Ticket to Paradise
Fall 3000 Years of Longing Beast I Came By
Spin Me Round Day Shift Where the Crawdads Sing Luck
Men Thirteen Lives Not Okay The Gray Man
Persuasion The Sea Beast The Man From Toronto Elvis
Marcel the Shell with Shoes On The Northman The Bad Guys All the Old Knives
Netflix © 2022
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery
(seen 23rd December)
Directed by: Rian Johnson
Written by: Rian Johnson
Starring: Daniel Craig, Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe, Kathryn Hahn, Leslie Odom Jr., Jessica Henwick, Madelyn Cline, Kate Hudson, Dave Bautista
Runtime: 139 min
Synopsis: A fresh adventure finds the intrepid detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) at a lavish private estate on a Greek island, but how and why he comes to be there is only the first of many puzzles. Blanc soon meets a distinctly disparate group of friends gathering at the invitation of billionaire Miles Bron (Edward Norton) for their yearly reunion. As in all the best murder mysteries, each character harbors their own secrets, lies and motivations. When someone turns up dead, everyone is a suspect.
Review: Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery would never disappoint. Rian Johnson succeeds, once again, with his clever, witty humor and continuous entertainment throughout just over two hours of yet another whodunnit classic with tremendous replay value. The central mystery holds countless twists and turns, almost always captivating and amusing. Exceptional performances from a shockingly talented cast - Daniel Craig and Janelle Monáe are the standouts - elevate a screenplay slightly lacking in character depth as well as better control over its clear yet repetitive message concerning opportunism, vanity, and hypocrisy. Original remains supreme, but this sequel deserved a worldwide premiere on the big screen.
Rating: B+
© APPLE TV+
Emancipation
(seen 7th December)
Directed by: Antoine Fuqua
Written by: William N. Collage
Starring: Will Smith, Ben Foster, Charmaine Bingwa
Runtime: 132 min
Synopsis: The triumphant story of Peter (Will Smith), a man who escapes from slavery, relying on his wits, unwavering faith and deep love for his family to evade cold-blooded hunters and the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana on his quest for freedom. Inspired by the 1863 photos of "Whipped Peter," taken during a Union Army medical examination, that first appeared in Harper's Weekly. One image, known as "The Scourged Back," which shows Peter’s bare back mutilated by a whipping delivered by his enslavers, ultimately contributed to growing public opposition to slavery.
Review: Emancipation struggles tremendously to justify its existence. The overly performative, superficial screenplay fails to elevate and distinguish the unique, true story of "Whipped Peter" from all the other generic movies that treat slavery as a mere plot point to "yet another" action/survival flick - surely there's a better way to adapt these stories?! Cinematography (Robert Richardson), cast - mainly Will Smith - and some of Antoine Fuqua's direction do a lot of the heavy lifting, but it starts to get tiring and painful to continue to watch shameful, traumatic events of our history being used repeatedly for pure Hollywood entertainment.
Rating: C-
© 2022 MARVEL.
The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special
(seen 25th November)
Directed by: James Gunn
Written by: James Gunn
Starring: Chris Pratt, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Sean Gunn, Michael Rooker, Zoe Saldaña, Kevin Bacon, Maria Bakalova
Runtime: 44 min
Synopsis: Star-Lord (Chris Pratt), Drax (Dave Bautista), Rocket (Bradley Cooper), Mantis (Pom Klementieff), and Groot (Vin Diesel) engage in some spirited shenanigans.
Review: The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special is irrefutable proof that James Gunn just can't fail. A Christmas special surrounded by the seasonal, familiar spirit, packing a huge heart and full of the filmmaker's typical, efficient humor. The main cast shares incredibly authentic chemistry, with Pom Klementieff standing out this time with a hilariously sweet, emotional performance. Final remark for the musical numbers with amusing lyrics and Kevin Bacon perfectly playing... Kevin Bacon.
Rating: A-
© 2022 METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER PICTURES INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Bones and All
(seen 22nd November)
Directed by: Luca Guadagnino
Written by: David Kajganich
Starring: Taylor Russell, Timothée Chalamet, Mark Rylance, Michael Stuhlbarg, André Holland, Chloë Sevigny, David Gordon Green, Jessica Harper
Runtime: 130 min
Synopsis: A story of first love between Maren (Taylor Russell), a young woman learning how to survive on the margins of society, and Lee (Timothée Chalamet), an intense and disenfranchised drifter; a liberating road odyssey of two young people coming into their own, searching for identity and chasing beauty in a perilous world that cannot abide who they are.
Review: Bones and All holds committed, chemistry-filled performances from Taylor Russell and Timothée Chalamet, telling a complex, interpretive story about true love and what we really need to survive. Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross' score shines and is the work's greatest chance of receiving an Oscar nomination, taking into account the shocking approach to cannibalism - it partially affects the connection with the protagonists - and horror aspects. A thought-provoking screenplay by David Kajganich and unrestrained direction by Luca Guadagnino elevate a film that deserves to be seen - and felt - on the big screen.
Rating: B
© APPLE TV+
Spirited
(seen 17th November)
Directed by: Sean Anders
Written by: Sean Anders, John Morris
Starring: Will Ferrell, Ryan Reynolds, Octavia Spencer, Sunita Mani, Patrick Page, Marlow Barkley, Tracy Morgan
Runtime: 127 min
Synopsis: A modern musical rendition of Charles Dickens' classic holiday story "A Christmas Carol."
Review: Spirited efficiently applies a Christmas formula. Harnessing the undeniable, palpable chemistry between Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell, along with original holiday tunes filled with the typical humor from the actors, Sean Anders delivers a musical entertaining enough to entertain the average spectator. Not all the songs succeed, nor their timing in the story is always the right one, and the generic narrative doesn't exactly help with the surprise factor. Still, I'm happy enough with the essential message that people can, in fact, change for the better.
Rating: B-
Netflix © 2022
The Wonder
(seen 16th November)
Directed by: Gren Wells
Written by: Marc Lhormer, Melissa Martin
Starring: Sadie Sink, Theo Rossi, Kweku Collins, Jessica Capshaw, Justin Bartha, Vivien Lyra Blair
Runtime: 94 min
Synopsis: A year after her family suffers an unimaginable loss, teenage Tess (Sadie Sink) pens a heartfelt letter to her dead little sister Zoe, reflecting on what was lost, her resistance to traveling with her family down recovery road, and the surprising sources from which she gains love and support so that she can begin to get better.
Review: The Wonder takes time to transform its mysterious premise into a truly captivating narrative, but the displays of Florence Pugh and especially Kíla Lord Cassidy - one of the most impressive performances to come from a 13-year-old - bear the struggles in the least relevant moments. As a character study, the film approaches the protagonists' distinct grieving processes in a gradually more profound manner, with some surprises along the way. Filmmaker Sebastián Lelio makes the most of the atmospheric cinematography (Ari Wegner) and the contemplative score (Matthew Herbert) to elevate the slow pacing, but not always successfully. For fans of period pieces, see it.
Rating: B-
© 2022 Zin Haze Productions
Dear Zoe
(seen 2nd November)
Directed by: Gren Wells
Written by: Marc Lhormer, Melissa Martin
Starring: Sadie Sink, Theo Rossi, Kweku Collins, Jessica Capshaw, Justin Bartha, Vivien Lyra Blair
Runtime: 94 min
Synopsis: A year after her family suffers an unimaginable loss, teenage Tess (Sadie Sink) pens a heartfelt letter to her dead little sister Zoe, reflecting on what was lost, her resistance to traveling with her family down recovery road, and the surprising sources from which she gains love and support so that she can begin to get better.
Review: Dear Zoe explores the grieving process with sweet messages, but in addition to being extremely generic, Gren Wells makes questionable creative decisions that remove emotional impact from the narration-dependent narrative. Typical film that's worth watching more for the extraordinary performances of the cast than for the formulaic screenplay. Kweku Collins impresses on his debut, Theo Rossi demonstrates his underrated range, and Sadie Sink continues to prove why she's one of the most fascinating, talented actresses of her generation.
Rating: C
Netflix © 2022
Wendell & Wild
(seen 28th October)
Directed by: Henry Selick
Written by: Henry Selick, Jordan Peele
Starring: Jordan Peele, Keegan-Michael Key, Angela Bassett, Lyric Ross, Ving Rhames
Runtime: 105 min
Synopsis: An animated tale about scheming demon brothers Wendell (Keegan-Michael Key) and Wild (Jordan Peele) - who enlist the aid of 13-year-old Kat Elliot (Lyric Ross) - a tough teen with a load of guilt - to summon them to the Land of the Living. But what Kat demands in return leads to a brilliantly bizarre and comedic adventure like no other, an animated fantasy that defies the law of life and death, all told through the handmade artistry of stop motion.
Review: Wendell & Wild tells a simple yet beautiful story about the grieving process and how people who have gone through it have as much or more potential to change the future. It doesn't reinvent the narrative wheel, being a screenplay close to the usual formulas, but as a stop-motion animation fanatic, the impressive visual quality is more than enough to grab this viewer. Despite the central theme and the characters needing to be more detailed, it's still a viewing that I consider mandatory.
Rating: B-
Netflix © 2022
The Good Nurse
(seen 25th October)
Directed by: Tobias Lindholm
Written by: Krysty Wilson-Cairns
Starring: Jessica Chastain, Eddie Redmayne, Nnamdi Asomugha, Kim Dickens, Noah Emmerich
Runtime: 121 min
Synopsis: Suspicious that her colleague is responsible for a series of mysterious patient deaths, a nurse risks her own life to uncover the truth in this gripping thriller based on true events.
Review: The Good Nurse uses the phenomenal cast at its disposal to elevate a shocking true story. Jessica Chastain and Eddie Redmayne shine through a screenplay that follows a mentally unstable serial killer who demonstrated the glaring lack of morals and institutional inhumanity of hospitals and administrators more concerned with protecting themselves than saving the lives of hundreds of patients. The pinnacle of human incompetence and ignorance with a light of genuine kindness at the end of the tunnel.
Rating: B
Netflix © 2022
The Stranger
(seen 18th October)
Directed by: Thomas M. Wright
Written by: Thomas M. Wright
Starring: Joel Edgerton, Sean Harris
Runtime: 116 min
Synopsis: A friendship forms between two strangers. For Henry Teague (Sean Harris), worn down by a lifetime of physical labor, this is a dream come true. His new friend Mark (Joel Edgerton) becomes his savior and ally. However, neither is who they appear to be, each carry secrets that threaten to ruin them - and in the background, one of the nation's largest police operations is closing in.
Review: The Stranger is inspired by true events, but the conventionalisms surrounding this type of adaptation make the viewing predictable, too slow, and with an almost nonexistent replay value. Thomas M. Wright manages to insert some visually interesting shots, relying mainly on the subtle, intimate performances of Joel Edgerton and Sean Harris to carry the story. However, the so-called mystery lacks actual intrigue and anything emotional to connect with the viewers, creating doubt as to whether the film would have benefited from a greater level of creativity without detracting from the realistic atmosphere employed by the filmmaker. Recommended only for fans of the subgenre.
Rating: C
© 2022 MARVEL
Werewolf by Night
(seen 7th October)
Directed by: Michael Giacchino
Written by: Heather Quinn, Peter Cameron
Starring: Gael García Bernal, Laura Donnelly, Harriet Sansom Harris
Runtime: 54 min
Synopsis: On a dark and somber night, a secret cabal of monster hunters emerge from the shadows and gather at the foreboding Bloodstone Temple following the death of their leader. In a strange and macabre memorial to the leader's life, the attendees are thrust into a mysterious and deadly competition for a powerful relic--a hunt that will ultimately bring them face to face with a dangerous monster.
Review: Werewolf by Night exhibits once again the immense talent of Michael Giacchino, but this time, in addition to delivering an excellent score, he also shines as a director. From the stunning black-and-white cinematography to the instantly entertaining premise, the filmmaker creates such a distinctive style that no one would guess this special belongs to the MCU. A dive into the horror genre that pays homage to past decades and surprises with the level of depth given to the characters in such a short runtime. Final praise for the superb performances.
Rating: B+
© Paramount Pictures
Smile
(seen 30th September)
Directed by: Parker Finn
Written by: Parker Finn
Starring: Sosie Bacon, Jessie T. Usher, Kyle Gallner, Caitlin Stasey, Kal Penn, Rob Morgan
Runtime: 115 min
Synopsis: After witnessing a bizarre, traumatic incident involving a patient, Dr. Rose Cotter (Sosie Bacon) starts experiencing frightening occurrences that she can't explain. As an overwhelming terror begins taking over her life, Rose must confront her troubling past in order to survive and escape her horrifying new reality.
Review: Smile deserves the praise it has received since its release. Parker Finn's feature directorial debut contains haunting levels of suspense, consequently creating surprisingly effective jumpscare sequences. Sound design generates an immersive atmosphere rarely seen in horror films, but it turns out to be the moving, character-driven narrative that truly captivates viewers. The impact of past traumas is excellently addressed by a screenplay that glaringly fails to conclude the story at the most appropriate, thematically correct time - one of the most damaging endings of the year. Regardless, it's definitely a personal recommendation.
Rating: B
Netflix © 2022
Lou
(seen 23rd September)
Directed by: Anna Foerster
Written by: Maggie Cohn, Jack Stanley
Starring: Allison Janney, Jurnee Smollett, Logan Marshall-Green, Ridley Bateman, Matt Craven
Runtime: 108 min
Synopsis: Thinking she'd put her dangerous past behind her, Lou (Allison Janney) finds her quiet life interrupted when a desperate mother (Jurnee Smollett) begs her to save her kidnapped daughter. As a massive storm rages, the two women risk their lives on a rescue mission that will test their limits and expose dark and shocking secrets from their pasts.
Review: Lou focuses on an admittedly generic kidnapping story, but Allison Janney and Jurnee Smollett's incredibly captivating performances tremendously elevate the formulaic screenplay. Given the lack of advertising and the low budget, Michael McDonough's cinematography exceeds expectations, providing a much more interesting viewing due to the excellent control of the camera and the surrounding environment. The clean editing helps with the few yet violent fight sequences in a film driven by the two protagonists and their respective arcs. The third act risks it all by "toying" with the audience's intellect, but it's still a decent watch.
Rating: B-
© A24
Pearl
(seen 17th September)
Directed by: Ti West
Written by: Ti West, Mia Goth
Starring: Mia Goth, David Corenswet, Tandi Wright, Matthew Sunderland, Emma Jenkins-Purro
Runtime: 102 min
Synopsis: Trapped on her family's isolated farm, Pearl (Mia Goth) must tend to her ailing father under the bitter and overbearing watch of her devout mother. Lusting for a glamorous life like she's seen in the movies, Pearl finds her ambitions, temptations, and repressions all colliding in this stunning, technicolor-inspired origin story of X's iconic villain.
Review: Pearl may be a prequel to X, but Ti West turns this slasher into an incredibly complex character study represented - and co-written (!) - by Mia Goth. The new star of the horror genre deepens the protagonist Pearl, exploring her tremendous desire to fulfill her dream of wanting to become something more than a mere farm girl, including a mesmerizing monologue of nearly ten uninterrupted minutes, where raw, insane, wholly genuine emotion of the character comes across in a fascinating manner. Extra appreciation for the practical effects and the fact that basically the entire movie is shot during broad daylight. Gore sequences become somewhat repetitive, and the narrative doesn't escape its predictability, being an overall less captivating film than its predecessor.
Rating: B
Netflix © 2022
Do Revenge
(seen 16th September)
Directed by: Jennifer Kaytin Robinson
Written by: Celeste Ballard, Jennifer Kaytin Robinson
Starring: Camila Mendes, Maya Hawke, Austin Abrams, Rish Shah, Sarah Michelle Gellar
Runtime: 118 min
Synopsis: Drea (Camila Mendes) is at the peak of her high school powers as the Alpha it-girl on campus when her entire life goes up in flames after her sex tape gets leaked to the whole school. Eleanor (Maya Hawke) is an awkward new transfer student who is angered to find out that she now has to go to school with her old bully. After a clandestine run-in at tennis camp, Drea and Eleanor form an unlikely and secret friendship to get revenge on each other's tormentors.
Review: Do Revenge works best when Camila Mendes and Maya Hawke are at the center of the screen, delivering scene-stealing performances with their charming chemistry and witty interactions. A satire with (too?) many twists on the high-school drama - minor nitpick, but the cast is way too old to portray teenagers - that manages to reach surprisingly efficient entertainment levels during practically the entire runtime. Even so, some over-the-top narrative embellishments and the screenplay's predictability contain the film within the usual formulas, despite the colorful aesthetics deserving a lot of praise. Solid effort.
Rating: B-
Ticket to Paradise
(seen 15th September)
Directed by: Ol Parker
Written by: Ol Parker, Daniel Pipski
Starring: George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Kaitlyn Dever, Billie Lourd, Maxime Bouttier, Lucas Bravo
Runtime: 104 min
Synopsis: George Clooney and Julia Roberts reunite on the big screen as exes who find themselves on a shared mission to stop their lovestruck daughter from making the same mistake they once made. A romantic comedy about the sweet surprise of second chances.
Review: Ticket to Paradise delivers precisely the formula it sells: a witty, light, fun rom-com that's well worth watching for its exceptional cast. George Clooney and Julia Roberts share some of the most engrossing, authentic chemistry I've witnessed all year. Kaitlyn Dever also deserves to be mentioned - one of the most promising actresses working today. Ol Parker manages to create quite an enjoyable viewing despite the spoiler-filled trailer. It doesn't reinvent concepts or hold any surprises, but it definitely works.
Rating: B-
© Lionsgate
Fall
(seen 14th September)
Directed by: Scott Mann
Written by: Scott Mann, Jonathan Frank
Starring: Grace Caroline Currey, Virginia Gardner, Mason Gooding, Jeffrey Dean Morgan
Runtime: 107 min
Synopsis: For best friends Becky (Grace Caroline Currey) and Hunter (Virginia Gardner), life is all about conquering fears and pushing limits. But after they climb 2,000 feet to the top of a remote, abandoned radio tower, they find themselves stranded with no way down. Now Becky and Hunter's expert climbing skills will be put to the ultimate test as they desperately fight to survive the elements, a lack of supplies, and vertigo-inducing heights.
Review: Fall is one of the biggest surprises of the year! Its premise automatically brings high levels of adrenaline, suspense, and tension - especially for acrophobes - and Scott Mann achieves the ideal mix of realism and absurdity. It doesn't go overboard to the point of causing countless "eye rolls", nor is it too generic and inconsequential, adding a rather impactful narrative twist near the third act. Grace Caroline Currey shines alongside an also competent Virginia Gardner, both having enough time to lead a character-driven story focused mainly on a single location. Too bad the frustratingly abrupt ending prevents the movie from reaching the next level...
Rating: B
© 2022 METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER PICTURES INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Three Thousand Years of Longing
(seen 7th September)
Directed by: George Miller
Written by: George Miller, Augusta Gore
Starring: Idris Elba, Tilda Swinton
Runtime: 108 min
Synopsis: Dr. Alithea Binnie (Tilda Swinton) is an academic - content with life and a creature of reason. While in Istanbul attending a conference, she happens to encounter a Djinn (Idris Elba) who offers her three wishes in exchange for his freedom. This presents two problems. First, she doubts that he is real and second, because she is a scholar of story and mythology, she knows all the cautionary tales of wishes gone wrong. The Djinn pleads his case by telling her fantastical stories of his past. Eventually she is beguiled and makes a wish that surprises them both.
Review: Three Thousand Years of Longing is one of the most ambitious films of the year. Relying on the genuinely charming, mesmerizing performances of Idris Elba and Tilda Swinton, George Miller approaches a famous cautionary tale through a distinctive form of storytelling, focusing on flashbacks narrated by the male protagonist. The multiple stories of the past aren't always fascinating, partially due to the chosen narrative method, which becomes repetitive despite enriching some of the core themes. The immersive, atmospheric visuals elevate the overall piece with significant impact, making this a cinematic experience to leave any viewer contemplating life, desire, loneliness, and happiness.
Rating: B+
© Sony Pictures
Where the Crawdads Sing
(seen 2nd September)
Directed by: Olivia Newman
Written by: Lucy Alibar
Starring: Daisy Edgar-Jones, Taylor John Smith, Harris Dickinson, Michael Hyatt, Sterling Macer, Jr., David Strathairn
Runtime: 125 min
Synopsis: Kya (Daisy Edgar-Jones) is an abandoned girl who raised herself to adulthood in the dangerous marshlands of North Carolina. For years, rumors of the "Marsh Girl" haunted Barkley Cove, isolating the sharp and resilient Kya from her community. Drawn to two young men from town, Kya opens herself to a new and startling world; but when one of them is found dead, she is immediately cast by the community as the main suspect. As the case unfolds, the verdict as to what actually happened becomes increasingly unclear, threatening to reveal the many secrets that lay within the marsh.
Review: Where the Crawdads Sing is one of the biggest surprises of the year - may the extraordinary box office result serve as proof. A survival story - on many levels - that tackles heavy trauma, the power of nature, prejudice, hypocrisy, and many other topics in a thematically rich screenplay. Daisy Edgar-Jones ends her breakthrough year with yet another complex performance that convinces viewers to invest in the equally intricate, fully-developed protagonist over a runtime slightly affected by a short period during the second act where it loses some momentum. A tad too melodramatic for my taste, and the divisive revelation of the final minutes will certainly generate much discourse - personally, it almost ruins the whole work. Still, I recommend it!
Rating: B
© 2022 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved
Beast
(seen 31st August)
Directed by: Baltasar Kormákur
Written by: Ryan Engle
Starring: Idris Elba, Iyana Halley, Leah Sava Jeffries, Sharlto Copley
Runtime: 93 min
Synopsis: Idris Elba stars in a pulse-pounding new thriller about a father and his two teenage daughters who find themselves hunted by a massive rogue lion intent on proving that the savannah has but one apex predator.
Review: Beast is one of the most gorgeous, satisfying films of the year. The camera moves cut-free during the vast majority of scenes, depicting all the splendor of the African safari, as well as helping viewers to become invested in the character interactions in a much more captivating manner. The immersive atmosphere carries immense suspense and tension - the lion sequences are quite brutal - where Idris Elba delivers one of the most emotional performances of his career. It follows the usual formula when it comes to survival movies, and it does require some suspension of disbelief. Final remark for the convincing visual effects. Audiences won't be disappointed.
Rating: B
Netflix © 2022
I Came By
(seen 27th August)
Directed by: Babak Anvari
Written by: Babak Anvari, Namsi Khan
Starring: George McKay, Percelle Ascott, Kelly Macdonald, Hugh Bonneville
Runtime: 110 min
Synopsis: A rebellious young graffiti artist targets the homes of the wealthy elite but discovers a shocking secret that leads him on a journey endangering himself and those closest to him.
Review: I Came By boasts a haunting performance by Hugh Bonneville and a screenplay featuring an interesting exploration of opposing economic classes. The theme "rich vs. poor" is developed through compelling interactions, but unfortunately, it's surrounded by an extremely predictable narrative that significantly reduces the levels of suspense and mystery. Time jumps only serve as a confusing technical element, and constant, abrupt cuts during tense moments become quite frustrating. The trailers are also incredibly misleading, with George McKay having surprisingly short screen time. Overall, it won't impress viewers who are more knowledgeable of the genre, but it's still a rather captivating viewing.
Rating: C+
© IFC Films
Spin Me Round
(seen 15th August)
Directed by: Jeff Baena
Written by: Jeff Baena, Alison Brie
Starring: Alison Brie, Aubrey Plaza, Alessandro Nivola, Molly Shannon, Lil Rey Howery, Fred Armisen, Tim Heidecker, Tricia Helfer, Ayden Mayeri, Ego Nwodim
Runtime: 104 min
Synopsis: When the manager of an American chain restaurant is selected to attend a special training program in Italy, her head swims with dreams of European glamour and romance. But the trip turns out to be much different - and possibly more dangerous - than the exotic getaways she imagines.
Review: Spin Me Round is purposefully wacky and extremely absurd, ultimately going way over the fine line between "it's so ridiculous that it's fun" and the growing annoyance at the amount of cringe displayed on the screen each minute. Despite excellent performances by most of the cast - Alison Brie is exceptional - the predictable, frustratingly incoherent screenplay lacks the necessary comedic value to be considered "dumb fun". Aubrey Plaza is criminally underused - marketing campaign is misleading - as are countless storylines that are forgotten, ignored, or sabotaged by poor writing. One of the worst movies of the year.
Rating: D-
Netflix © 2022
Day Shift
(seen 12th August)
Directed by: J. J. Perry
Written by: Tyler Tice, Shay Hatten
Starring: Jamie Foxx, Dave Franco, Snoop Dogg, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Meagan Good, Karla Souza, Steve Howey, Scott Adkins
Runtime: 113 min
Synopsis: Jamie Foxx stars as a hard working blue collar dad who just wants to provide a good life for his quick-witted daughter, but his mundane San Fernando Valley pool cleaning job is a front for his real source of income, hunting and killing vampires as part of an international Union of vampire hunters.
Review: Day Shift is one of the most pleasant surprises of the year! As expected, it doesn't reinvent the wheel - formulaic screenplay and paper-thin characters - but the care and dedication involved in the stunt choreography, minimal use of CGI, and extraordinary camerawork (Toby Oliver) make this project packed with action - sometimes even too much - one of the most entertaining vampire movies of the last decade. Jamie Foxx serves well enough as the badass protagonist in J. J. Perry's first feature film - the former stuntman impresses in such a way that he could easily become a well-recognized director within the action genre. It's not a bad plan for a weekend watch with family and friends.
Rating: B-
© SKYDANCE ANIMATION
Luck
(seen 3rd August)
Directed by: Peggy Holmes
Written by: Kiel Murray
Starring: Eva Noblezada, Simon Pegg, Jane Fonda, Whoopi Goldberg, Flula Borg, Lil Rel Howery, Colin O'Donoghue, John Ratzenberger
Runtime: 105 min
Synopsis: The story of Sam Greenfield (Eva Noblezada), the unluckiest person in the world! Suddenly finding herself in the never-before-seen Land of Luck, she must unite with the magical creatures there to turn her luck around.
Review: Luck meets the minimum requirements of having a light story with simple characters and sweet messages, but it's far from an inspiring, imaginative, incredibly entertaining work. The humor related to the protagonist's misfortunes induces some moments of laughter, but even these are cliches repeated countless times throughout the history of cinema. Strangely, the 3D animation fails to offer expressiveness and emotion to the characters, being limited to the beautiful environment that surrounds the narrative. The score tries to elevate the overall film with sentimental tunes and melodies, but unfortunately, it's not enough to avoid the first animated disappointment of the year.
Rating: C
© A24
Men
(seen 31st July)
Directed by: Alex Garland
Written by: Alex Garland
Starring: Jessie Buckley, Rory Kinnear, Paapa Essiedu
Runtime: 100 min
Synopsis: In the aftermath of a personal tragedy, Harper (Jessie Buckley) retreats alone to the beautiful English countryside, hoping to have found a place to heal. But someone or something from the surrounding woods appears to be stalking her. What begins as simmering dread becomes a fully-formed nightmare, inhabited by her darkest memories and fears.
Review: Men is undoubtedly one of the most unique, macabre, weird, expectedly divisive films of the year. Rob Hardy's cinematography is truly impressive, navigating viewers through eye-popping visual details with the help of mesmerizing makeup and VFX. The score by Ben Salisbury and Geoff Barrow is also quite atmospheric and haunting. Nevertheless, Alex Garland exhaustively repeats his obvious, heavy-handed message to the point of losing all emotional connection with the underdeveloped protagonist. The last act focuses too much on excessive, unpleasant gore to prove a point over and over again unnecessarily, functioning as a distracting, underwhelming conclusion. Jessie Buckley - extraordinary - deserves much better, as does the versatile Rory Kinnear, who plays multiple roles.
Rating: C
© 2022 METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER PICTURES INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Thirteen Lives
(seen 30th July)
Directed by: Ron Howard
Written by: William Nicholson
Starring: Viggo Mortensen, Colin Farrell, Joel Edgerton, Tom Bateman
Runtime: 142 min
Synopsis: The incredible true story of the tremendous global effort to rescue a Thai soccer team who become trapped in the Tham Luang cave during an unexpected rainstorm. Faced with insurmountable odds, a team of the world's most skilled and experienced divers - uniquely able to navigate the maze of flooded, narrow cave tunnels - join with Thai forces and more than 10,000 volunteers to attempt a harrowing rescue of the twelve boys and their coach. With impossibly high stakes and the entire world watching, the group embarks on their most challenging dive yet, showcasing the limitlessness of the human spirit in the process.
Review: Thirteen Lives follows the usual formulas of works based on true events, but Ron Howard's honest, non-Hollywoodized direction allows him to efficiently tell one of the most remarkable survival stories of the last decade. The entire cast is extraordinary, but it's Viggo Mortensen and Colin Farrell who mainly guide the film through all the relevant, claustrophobic plot points in a somewhat heavy viewing runtime-wise. Interesting for viewers with little to no knowledge of what happened, but the question remains as to whether it adds anything truly significant to the documentary The Rescue about the same 18 days of suffering, anxiety, and uncertainty. Massive praise for the worthy amount of screentime of the Thai language.
Rating: B-
© 2021 20TH CENTURY STUDIOS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Not Okay
(seen 29th July)
Directed by: Quinn Shephard
Written by: Quinn Shephard
Starring: Zoey Deutch, Mia Isaac, Embeth Davidtz, Nadia Alexander, Tia Dionne Hodge, Negin Farsad, Dylan O'Brien
Runtime: 100 min
Synopsis: Danni Sanders (Zoey Deutch) is an aimless aspiring writer with no friends, no romantic prospects and - worst of all - no followers, who fakes an Instagram-friendly trip to Paris in the hopes of boosting her social media clout. When a terrifying incident strikes the City of Lights, Danni unwittingly falls into a lie bigger than she ever imagined. She "returns" a hero, even striking up an unlikely friendship with Rowan (Mia Isaac), a school-shooting survivor dedicated to societal change, and scooping up the man of her dreams, Colin (Dylan O'Brien). As an influencer and advocate, Danni finally has the life and audience she always wanted. But it's only a matter of time before the façade cracks, and she learns the hard way that the Internet loves a takedown.
Review: Not Okay is, to say the least, a shocking, controversial, thought-provoking movie that all viewers within the digital world should watch. An in-depth study of the absolute worst of social media, clickbait journalism, false victimization, and the relentless pursuit of fame. The satirical-comedic tone doesn't always work, and some quite interesting topics deserved a more detailed exploration and clearer conclusions, especially about cancel culture. Still, Zoey Deutch sells the role of the unlikable protagonist (very) well, despite a bold yet confusing ending concerning the message Quinn Shephard wanted to convey. Nevertheless, the real standout is Mia Isaac, who, at just 18 years old and with only one feature film under her belt before this movie, demonstrates insane talent and delivers one of the most emotionally powerful performances of the year. Cool song choices relevant to the narrative.
Rating: B
Netflix © 2022
The Gray Man
(seen 13th July)
Directed by: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
Written by: Joe Russo, Christopher Markus, Stephen McFeely
Starring: Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans, Ana de Armas, Jessica Henwick, Regé-Jean Page, Wagner Moura, Julia Butters, Dhanush, Alfre Woodard, Billy Bob Thornton
Runtime: 122 min
Synopsis: When the CIA's top asset - his identity known to no one - uncovers agency secrets, he triggers a global hunt by assassins set loose by his ex-colleague.
Review: The Gray Man holds the energetic, over-the-top, explosive action from the Russo Brothers, which should be enough to entertain the vast majority of the audience throughout the admittedly generic, predictable screenplay. Excessive camera movement occasionally sabotages the fantastic fight choreography, but nothing that lasts too long. Regardless of the valuable technical aspects, the success of this movie is inherently connected to the superb performances from a cast packed with chemistry. Ryan Gosling demonstrates that he knows how to play an action protagonist, Chris Evans clearly has tons of fun playing a "bad guy" full of personality, Ana de Armas captivates as the sidekick badass, while Jessica Henwick is underused - the actress has done more than enough in her career to portray bigger roles. See it in the theater, if possible.
Rating: B
CR. NICK WALL/NETFLIX © 2022
Persuasion
(seen 12th July)
Directed by: Carrie Cracknell
Written by: Ronald Bass, Alice Victoria Winslow
Starring: Dakota Johnson, Cosmo Jarvis, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Richard E. Grant, Henry Golding
Runtime: 107 min
Synopsis: Living with her snobby family on the brink of bankruptcy, Anne Elliot (Dakota Johnson) is an unconforming woman with modern sensibilities. When Frederick Wentworth (Cosmo Jarvis) - the dashing one she let get away - crashes back into her life, Anne must choose between putting the past behind her or listening to her heart when it comes to second chances.
Review: Persuasion seems to be another typical case of book adaptations: anyone familiar with the original material will struggle to appreciate even the slightest change; those without previous knowledge of Jane Austen's novel might be able to enjoy the film for itself. As someone belonging to the latter group, I found myself surprisingly satisfied. Despite following all the narrative paths in the most predictable, cliche manner possible, Dakota Johnson's fabulous performance and some unexpectedly humorous interactions are enough to make the viewing rather pleasant. Far from being innovative or unique, but it still serves as a recommendation for fans of the genre.
Rating: B-
NETFLIX © 2022
The Sea Beast
(seen 7th July)
Directed by: Chris Williams
Written by: Chris Williams, Nell Benjamin
Starring: Karl Urban, Zaris-Angel Hator, Jared Harris, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Dan Stevens, Kathy Burke, Doon Mackichan, Jim Carter
Runtime: 115 min
Synopsis: In an era when terrifying beasts roamed the seas, monster hunters were celebrated heroes - and none were more beloved than the great Jacob Holland (Karl Urban). But when young Maisie Brumble (Zaris-Angel Hator) stows away on his fabled ship, he's saddled with an unexpected ally. Together they embark on an epic journey into uncharted waters and make history.
Review: The Sea Beast may follow familiar story beats, but Chris Williams still delivers one of the best animated movies of the year. The genuinely impressive animation stands out from the other technical elements, especially considering that virtually every scene includes water. Accompanied by an adventurous epic score, characters receive efficient, thought-provoking arcs, conveying essential life lessons about understanding other perspectives and shamelessly accepting changes in our personal opinion, in addition to the evident premise of not judging a book by its cover. Excellent voice work by the entire cast, namely Zaris-Angel Hator. Monster action is immensely entertaining for all types of viewers. Couldn't recommend it more for a family watch.
Rating: B+
Cr. Sabrina Lantos/Netflix © 2022
The Man From Toronto
(seen 24th June)
Directed by: Patrick Hughes
Written by: Robbie Fox, Chris Bremner
Starring: Kevin Hart, Woody Harrelson, Kaley Cuoco, Jasmine Mathews, Lela Loren, Pierson Fodé, Jencarlos Canela, Ellen Barkin
Runtime: 110 min
Synopsis: A case of mistaken identity forces a bumbling entrepreneur to team up with a notorious assassin in hopes of staying alive.
Review: The Man From Toronto is the perfect example of an inoffensively generic weekend flick. Embrace the shamelessly nonsensical story. Try to enjoy the "dumb fun" moments spread throughout the entire runtime - it could have been shorter. Accept the hilariously bad visual effects. Finally, stay for Kevin Hart and Woody Harrelson's typecast roles, who should be enough to entertain most viewers. It's (very) far from being a good movie, but if you're one of those viewers who can tolerate purposefully silly, unrealistic, illogical narratives for the sake of entertainment, this Netflix project passes the time.
Rating: C
© A24
Marcel the Shell with Shoes On
(seen 23rd June)
Directed by: Dean Fleischer-Camp
Written by: Dean Fleischer-Camp, Jenny Slate, Nick Paley
Starring: Jenny Slate, Dean Fleischer-Camp, Rosa Salazar, Thomas Mann, Lesley Stahl, and Isabella Rossellini
Runtime: 89 min
Synopsis: Marcel (Jenny Slate) is an adorable one-inch-tall shell who ekes out a colorful existence with his grandmother Connie (Isabella Rossellini) and their pet lint, Alan (Dean Fleischer-Camp). Once part of a sprawling community of shells, they now live alone as the sole survivors of a mysterious tragedy. But when a documentary filmmaker discovers them amongst the clutter of his Airbnb, the short film he posts online brings Marcel millions of passionate fans, as well as unprecedented dangers and a new hope at finding his long-lost family.
Review: Marcel the Shell with Shoes On transported me back to the precious times I shared with my late grandfather. An extraordinarily creative, moving story surrounded by incredibly genuine humor and filled with meaningful, memorable messages about family, friendship, life, and love. Complex themes dissected through the fascinatingly simplistic eye of a small shell. Efficiently short runtime to take the viewers through a contemplative yet quite spirited experience. One of the best films of the year!
Rating: A-
© 2022 WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Elvis
(seen 22nd June)
Directed by: Baz Luhrmann
Written by: Baz Luhrmann, Sam Bromell, Craig Pearce, Jeremy Doner
Starring: Austin Butler, Tom Hanks, Helen Thomson, Richard Roxburgh, Olivia DeJonge, Luke Bracey, Natasha Bassett, David Wenham, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Xavier Samuel, Kodi Smit-McPhee
Runtime: 159 min
Synopsis: The film explores the life and music of Elvis Presley (Austin Butler), seen through the prism of his complicated relationship with his enigmatic manager, Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks). The story delves into the complex dynamic between Presley and Parker spanning over 20 years, from Presley's rise to fame to his unprecedented stardom, against the backdrop of the evolving cultural landscape and loss of innocence in America. Central to that journey is one of the most significant and influential people in Elvis' life, Priscilla Presley (Olivia DeJonge).
Review: Elvis features a glorious, electrifying, iconic performance from Austin Butler that will deservedly guarantee him all the awards of the year. Unfortunately, the actor isn't enough to overcome the many technical issues, besides Tom Hanks' massive miscast and the formulaic musical biopic narrative. Baz Luhrmann's style theoretically fits the legendary singer's vibrant aura, and the filmmaker's intention is clear. Nevertheless, the frenetic, choppy editing and the restless camera movements rather come off as a messy, confusing, headache-inducing atmosphere instead of elements that elevate the overall piece. The unnecessarily hefty doesn't help. I was hoping to be surprised, but then again, I'm admittedly not the biggest Elvis/Luhrmann fan.
Rating: C+
© 2022 FOCUS FEATURES, LLC
The Northman
(seen 21st April)
Directed by: Robert Eggers
Written by: Sjón, Robert Eggers
Starring: Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, Claes Bang, Anya Taylor-Joy, Ethan Hawke, Björk, Willem Dafoe
Runtime: 137 min
Synopsis: Prince Amleth (Alexander Skarsgård) is on the verge of becoming a man when his father is brutally murdered by his uncle, who kidnaps the boy's mother. Two decades later, Amleth is now a Viking who's on a mission to save his mother, kill his uncle and avenge his father.
Review: The Northman boasts a brutal score worthy of the biggest blockbusters, tremendously elevating a revenge journey filled with Norse mythology and impressive one-take sequences. The typical heavy slow-burn that will bore many audiences hoping for an action extravaganza - it's indeed too long and uneventful - but it remains a must-see of 2022. A strong contender for best cinematography (Jarin Blaschke) of the year. Robert Eggers remains on the right path to becoming a renowned filmmaker. Alexander Skarsgård completely transforms himself into one of the best roles of his career. Highly recommended!
Rating: B+
© 2021 DREAMWORKS ANIMATION LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
The Bad Guys
(seen 14th April)
Directed by: Pierre Perifel
Written by: Etan Cohen
Starring: Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Anthony Ramos, Craig Robinson, Awkwafina, Richard Ayoade, Zazie Beetz, Lilly Singh, Alex Borstein
Runtime: 100 min
Synopsis: Several reformed yet misunderstood criminal animals attempt to become good, with some disastrous results along the way.
Review: The Bad Guys is one of the lightest, most pleasant, genuinely positive viewings of the year. With a clear distinction between being "good" and "bad", stereotypes and preconceived notions are brilliantly addressed in a sweet redemption story that doesn't try to reinvent the wheel. The voice cast is exceptional, elevating an admittedly formulaic narrative in a remarkably impactful manner. Despite being more geared towards children, the entertainment levels are high enough for any generation. The blend of 2D and 3D animation works flawlessly, offering an overall distinct look compared to what audiences are used to. In the end, it's yet another recommendation for families.
Rating: B
© 2021 Courtesy of Amazon Studios
All the Old Knives
(seen 6th April)
Directed by: Janus Metz
Written by: Olen Steinhauer
Starring: Chris Pine, Thandiwe Newton, Laurence Fishburne, Jonathan Pryce
Runtime: 101 min
Synopsis: When the CIA discovers one of its agents leaked information that cost more than 100 people their lives, veteran operative Henry Pelham (Chris Pine) is assigned to root out the mole from among his former officemates at the agency's Vienna station. His investigation takes him from Austria to England to California, where he is reunited with his one-time colleague and ex-lover Celia Harrison (Thandiwe Newton). The pair are forced to blur the lines between profession and passion in this riveting tale of global espionage, moral ambiguity, and deadly betrayal.
Review: All the Old Knives holds an extraordinary cast and an interesting premise, but Janus Metz's (Borg vs McEnroe) uninspired execution turns a movie with immense potential into yet another generic work with little replay value. Chris Pine (The Contractor) and Thandiwe Newton (God’s Country) shine as the protagonists, and their astonishing chemistry transforms a simple dinner into the most captivating storyline of the entire narrative. However, the constant shifts between different timelines and distinct perspectives withdraw energy, pacing, and focus from Olen Steinhauer's decent screenplay. Furthermore, Laurence Fishburne (John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum) and Jonathan Pryce (The Two Popes) are criminally underused. It's far from being a non-recommended flick, but it leaves a somewhat bitter feeling by the end.
Rating: C
© 2021 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Ambulance
(seen 19th March)
Directed by: Michael Bay
Written by: Chris Fedak
Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Eiza González
Runtime: 136 min
Synopsis: Two robbers steal an ambulance after their heist goes awry.
Review: Ambulance is one of the most frenetic, literally non-stop action flicks of Michael Bay's entire career - which might be shocking to state. The cast is exceptional - curiously, it's Eiza González who stands out the most - and their interactions are far more hilarious than I anticipated. Choppy editing and inconsistently shaky camera work can be extremely frustrating, especially outside of the action sequences, but on the other hand, these elements also contribute to the unstoppable energy of an authentic blockbuster. Is it absurdly ridiculous? Undoubtedly. As silly as can be expected. But entertaining nonetheless.
Rating: B-
© 2022 A24
X
(seen 16th March)
Directed by: Ti West
Written by: Ti West
Starring: Mia Goth, Jenna Ortega, Martin Henderson, Scott Mescudi, Brittany Snow
Runtime: 106 min
Synopsis: In 1979 some young filmmakers set out to make an adult film in rural Texas, but when their reclusive, elderly hosts catch them in the act, the cast members find themselves in a fight for their lives.
Review: X pays homage to 70/80s classic slashers while simultaneously tackling important themes related to sexual pleasure/freedom, age, and self-acceptance in a deeper and more intelligent screenplay than meets the eye. Ti West (In a Valley of Violence) returns six years after his last feature film with a clear vision of a story that mixes uninhibited pornography with the purest gore that can be found on the big screen, all wrapped up in a constantly captivating narrative and insane third act. Mia Goth (Emma) shines tremendously with an imperceptible dual role that transforms a technically interesting movie into something truly impressive - makeup, visual/practical effects, and score deserve much praise. As hilarious as it is terrifying, it will be hard to forget, regardless of where the viewer falls on the opinion spectrum.
Rating: B+
Netflix © 2022
The Adam Project
(seen 11th March)
Directed by: Shawn Levy
Written by: Jonathan Tropper, T.S. Nowlin, Jennifer Flackett, Mark Levin
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Mark Ruffalo, Jennifer Garner, Walker Scobell, Catherine Keener, Zoe Saldaña
Runtime: 106 min
Synopsis: A time-traveling pilot teams up with his younger self and his late father to come to terms with his past while saving the future.
Review: The Adam Project is the typical "streaming blockbuster", but one that manages to add some characterization and genuine emotion to its generic entertainment. Ryan Reynolds delivers a balanced performance - finally portraying a non-caricatured role of himself - and Shawn Levy steers the story through energetic, fast-paced action sequences. The filmmaker both plays and takes advantage of the cliches from time-travel movies. Ultimately, it's harmless, silly fun with a touch of sci-fi for any viewer to enjoy.
Rating: B-
© Universal Pictures
Marry Me
(seen 11th February)
Directed by: Kat Coiro
Written by: John Rogers, Tami Sagher, Harper Dill
Starring: Jennifer Lopez, Owen Wilson, Maluma, John Bradley, Sarah Silverman
Runtime: 112 min
Synopsis: After learning that her on-stage partner (Maluma) has been having an affair behind her back, Kat Valdez (Jennifer Lopez), a sensational Latin pop star, chooses to marry a stranger, Charlie Gilbert (Owen Wilson), holding a "Marry Me" sign by accident at her live concert.
Review: Marry Me is far from being a groundbreaking rom-com, but the lead actors, compelling character work, and excellent original music make for genuine entertainment. Jennifer Lopez (Hustlers) and Owen Wilson (Loki) surprisingly share amazing chemistry, in addition to delivering absolutely fantastic performances, constantly pulling viewers back to the screen when the narrative becomes repetitive and generic. John Bradley (Game of Thrones) and Sarah Silverman (Ralph Breaks the Internet) also contribute to the light and fun environment of the film. The balance between the life of a celebrity and the "common citizen" is quite well explored, and the vision of how much fame limits a normal life is the most interesting storyline of the entire narrative. For fans of the genre, it's strongly recommended.
Rating: B
© Warner Bros. Pictures
KIMI
(seen 10th February)
Directed by: Steven Soderbergh
Written by: David Koepp
Starring: Zoë Kravitz, Rita Wilson
Runtime: 149 min
Synopsis: An agoraphobic tech worker discovers recorded evidence of a violent crime but is met with resistance when she tries to report it. Seeking justice, she must now do the thing she fears the most: she must leave her apartment.
Review: KIMI contains the narrative potential and impactful cinematography that movies by Steven Soderbergh (No Sudden Move) always have, but not even a superb performance from Zoë Kravitz (The Batman) can hide some issues with the developed themes. Technologically, the proximity of this world to ours is frighteningly realistic, but the attempts to tackle agoraphobia and invasion of privacy aren't all successful. The protagonist's arc focuses on her ability to overcome past trauma, something that is mostly well-done. However, the abrupt conclusion of the whole story not only lessens and simplifies PTSD but raises numerous plot-related logical questions, in addition to a moral one concerning stalking. It will likely create some division within the general audience.
Rating: C
© LIONSGATE
Moonfall
(seen 3rd February)
Directed by: Roland Emmerich
Written by: Roland Emmerich, Harald Kloser, Spenser Cohen
Starring: Halle Berry, Patrick Wilson, John Bradley, Michael Peña, Charlie Plummer, Kelly Yu, Donald Sutherland
Runtime: 130 min
Synopsis: A mysterious force knocks the Moon from its orbit around Earth and sends it hurtling on a collision course with life as we know it. With mere weeks before impact and the world on the brink of annihilation, NASA executive and former astronaut Jo Fowler (Halle Berry) is convinced she has the key to saving us all - but only one astronaut from her past, Brian Harper (Patrick Wilson) and a conspiracy theorist K.C. Houseman (John Bradley) believe her. These unlikely heroes will mount an impossible last-ditch mission into space, leaving behind everyone they love, only to find out that our Moon is not what we think it is.
Review: Moonfall is as insanely nonsensical as one could hope/expect, but it's the lack of entertaining sequences for most of the runtime that brings the film down. The balance between the different, simultaneous action set pieces suffers immensely due to the underdeveloped, bland characters, and the incoherent, messy editing work doesn't help. Disaster movies always ask for suspension of disbelief, but Roland Emmerich really stretches the absurdity levels by co-writing one of the most scientifically ridiculous screenplays in the history of cinema - the third act revelations are genuinely jaw-dropping. A surprisingly dull disaster flick across the board, whether it's about the story, action, or even the performances.
Rating: D-
© Gravitas Ventures
The King’s Daughter
(seen 20th January)
Directed by: Sean McNamara
Written by: Barry Berman, James Schamus
Starring: Pierce Brosnan, Kaya Scodelario, Benjamin Walker, Rachel Griffiths, Pablo Schreiber, Fan Bingbing, William Hurt
Runtime: 100 min
Synopsis: A powerful king (Pierce Brosnan) seeks to extract a mermaid's life-giving force to gain immortality, but his defiant daughter (Kaya Scodelario) threatens to ruin his plans.
Review: The King's Daughter is everything viewers expected: a formulaic, uninteresting story filled with old-fashioned cliches and spine-chilling visual effects - not in a good way. Not a single filmmaker and respective creative team deserve to have their work stuck in a seven-year limbo until it's released, let alone due to scheduling and budget issues. However, while the horrible VFX can be forgiven, the disappointing narrative can't be saved, not even by the also underwhelming performances. Pierce Brosnan (False Positive) seems to represent a caricature, while Kaya Scodelario (Crawl) benefits from the release delay, which fortunately didn't negatively impact her early career. The only positive point is that, in fact, it reached the big screen. Too bad it's not worth it.
Rating: D-
© 2020 Universal Studios
The 355
(seen 6th January)
Directed by: Simon Kinberg
Written by: Theresa Rebeck, Simon Kinberg
Starring: Jessica Chastain, Lupita Nyong'o, Penélope Cruz, Diane Kruger, Bingbing Fan, Édgar Ramirez, Sebastian Stan
Runtime: 124 min
Synopsis: When a top-secret weapon falls into mercenary hands, wild card CIA agent Mason "Mace" Brown (Jessica Chastain) will need to join forces with rival badass German agent Marie (Diane Kruger), former MI6 ally and cutting-edge computer specialist Khadijah (Lupita Nyong'o), and skilled Colombian psychologist Graciela (Penélope Cruz) on a lethal, breakneck mission to retrieve it, while also staying one-step ahead of a mysterious woman, Lin Mi Sheng (Bingbing Fan), who is tracking their every move. As the action rockets around the globe from the cafes of Paris to the markets of Morocco to the opulent auction houses of Shanghai, the quartet of women will forge a tenuous loyalty that could protect the world - or get them killed.
Review: The 355 holds excellent performances from all people involved - especially Jessica Chastain (It: Chapter Two) and Lupita Nyong'o (Us). However, the generic screenplay, poor dialogues, and barely developed characters turn a film with much potential into another disappointment from Simon Kinberg (The New Mutants). The action sequences actually include interesting choreography, but the use of quick cuts and shaky cam doesn't always work favorably. The narrative is loaded with the usual formulas of the respective genre, and some attempts to approach the theme of feminism efficiently fall flat. Personally, it's saved by the fact that it was primarily filmed in real locations, helping with the entertainment levels.
