Category: Uncategorized

FLIRTING WITH DISASTER (1996)

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Written & Directed by: David O. Russell

Cinematography: Eric Alan Edwards

Editor: Christopher Tellefsen 

Cast: Ben Stiller, Patricia Arquette, Tea Leoni, Josh Brolin, Richard Jenkins, Mary Tyler Moore, Alan Alda, Lily Tomlin, George Segal, Celia Weston, David Patrick Kelly, Nadja Dajani 

Five months after the birth of his son, Mel Coplin remains unable to name the child until he has met his own biological parents and discovered who he “really is.” He, his wife Nancy, and his social-worker-in-training Tina Kalb jet off to California to meet his birth mother–who turns out not to be his mother, due to an error with the agency’s adoption records. The quartet sets out in search of Mel’s real parents, with tensions growing because of the sexual chemistry lacking between Mel and Nancy and growing between Mel and Tina.

This film is made in a classic screwball comedy type manner, but it feels more intellectual than these films. As it swings from out and out wacky comedy to more witty humor. So that it feels like a modern for that time Woody Allen movie. Only with his earlier anarchic spirit behind the camera.

The film often goes for shocks in it’s comedy but doesn’t feel blatant and ends up more subtle at times.

Each of the characters perfectly complements the ensemble as each of them appears fairly normal, but as we get to know then their dysfunctions or freaky side is revealed and they are so one of a kind many of them. Could have a whole film built around them.

Though the film is shot small and more like an independent film. Where at first we are in The cramped apartments of New York where it feels overwhelming and tight. As there are scenes that take place more indoors and feel closed off. Once they hit the open road it offers more abundance.

Though the way the camera keeps moving and shooting. It’s shots make it look like the camera like the performers are always exploring be it themselves, space, or boundaries. Which as a viewer excites you as you are never quite sure what will happen next and it keeps you laughing.

The timing And delivery of the jokes and performances as well as the direction are all on point.

The ensemble cast that would be seen as an all-star cast now. Seem more like they are improving like a jazz standard jam. Riffing off of one another and carrying the beat. Though while sure improv was involved it seems like the film was actually tightly scripted. Though when dialogue as said. It seems like it was thought up on the spot.

This is a comedy that delivers real surprises when you don’t expect them.

The strength behind the film is writer/director David O. Russell. He pulls the film together. Cinematically It’s impressive, script-wise it’s impressive and the performances he gets from his cast are amazing. As they go from serious to wacky in an instant. He usually can find laughs and comedy in situations that are not the usual places most would even go looking. Especially in dire depressing situations. Not only with this film but with films

Like his directorial debut SPANKING THE MONKEY (a rather depressing comedy about incest) I HEART HUCKABEES, THREE KINGS, AMERICAN HUSTLE, JOY, THE SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK, and THE FIGHTER. He shows range, talent, and a certain composite. Where you can’t say there snot if his films are the same.

The casting in this movie is inspired as ben Stiller doesn’t seem as in control here nor are his reactions with his usual acting tics in this movie. This seems like one of the last times he would be this pristine performance. Though he usually plays this type of character.

Tea Leoni and Patricia Arquette get to show off their talents. Tea Leoni in a more offbeat styled character who was usually played at that time by Parker Posey. She really shows her chops in a role she rarely gets to do these days more the neurotic sex pot who dresses more like a femme fatale. Who always seems in control but might be just for appearances.

Patricia Arquette has an almost leading lady form and is that attractive girl next door quality as Stiller’s wife.

Mary Tyler Moore as his overbearing Jewish mother. Who likes to show how good her body still is in shape. She tries to steal the movie but is in her realm in a role that at first looks like stunt casting but actually works out well.

Josh Brolin being more comedic and open than usual as a gay/bi FBI agent who tags along on the ride.

This film is a treat I regret not seeing in theaters. As I tried but disappeared fast. Though luckily saw it as soon as it was available on home video. Though I will admit It was A film that had to grow on me. Like the first time, i saw it. I thought it was funny but not hilarious. As I watched it over the years it has won me over. As I began to notice the layers and construction of Jokes, scenes, shots, and characters. It’s an underrated film that needs to be revisited and Given more credit.

Definitely an addition to the home library.

Grade: B+

ROUNDERS (1998)

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Directed By: John Dahl 
Written By: Brian Koppelman & David Levien 
Cinematography By: Jean-Yves Escoffier 
Editor: Scott Chesnut 

Cast: Matt Damon, Edward Norton, Martin Landau, Gretchen Mol, John Malkovich, John Turturro, Michael Rispoli, Famke Janssen, Josh Mostel, Melina Kanakaredes, Lenny Clarke 

A young man is a reformed gambler who must return to playing big stakes poker to help a friend pay off loan sharks

The Film takes you into the backroom parlors and other places around the city where gambling and illegal gaming is going on.

The film puts you in the right atmosphere of a certain kind of elegance and well as an underground network of con men and illegal activities. Which the film tries to come off as cool and slick, but comes off as stiff. The confines though feel illustrious and classic. Like age-old traditions which help give the film a richness. All the scenes seem to filtered with deep dark reds.

By all means, considering the talent involved in the film, this should be a better film. The way the film plays, it acts like it’s a better film then what it is. While it has a pedigree, the film hasn’t earned that right yet.

While it has it’s share of surprises the story feels fairly predictable. The thing that keeps you watching is wondering when and how what you know is going to happen.

Though he is good Edward Norton seems to be coasting through this film. While Matt Damon seems to be taking it seriously while that works for him. It’s not too much of a stretch. While Norton seems to be trying to create a character with very few details. But seems to be going for classic gritty scumbag.
The film at least gives him an important decision to make but either way it is looking up for him whichever decision he makes. only one is more dangerous and uncertain. While the other he is good at but has no passion for.

At the time Hollywood’s it girl Gretchen Mol has what passes for a female leading role, though in the end, it comes off as a typical girlfriend role. There isn’t a real character there just a point in the script to give the lead something to be working toward and pulling him in one direction while the other direction entices him.

It’s fun to see John Malkovich hamming it up in his role. Where he gets to be a character and a heavy. While also getting to be funny

The film seems to have an attitude like it’s supposed to be or going to be a classic New York tale, yet comes off as mediocre and a story that feels familiar that is not necessarily better but isn’t worse than how we have seen it before.

It’s entertaining and a disappointment only because you go in thinking about the possibilities that it never achieves. One of the problems in this film is that we understand the bonds of friendship, but these guys are hustlers and poker players a game of not only skill but smarts. Now he realizes his friend is a screw-up which almost anyone except for him can see. So that when a betrayal does eventually happen He is so shocked. Yet expects loyalty even though they are not family.

I know I am hard on this film, it’s not a bad film. Maybe it’s just the fact I have seen so many films this one does little to distinguish itself. It’s a good film that is enjoyable yet there is nothing too special about it. I remember seeing this in theaters on opening night with a small audience. I expected a bigger more appreciative crowd. Yet the theater was nearly empty. The film is entertaining and as long as you don’t expect much it’s good. It’s just watching it and thinking of how much better it could hurt a little. It does set an intoxicating mood with it’s elements. Giving it a feeling of warmness in treacherous times.

GRADE: B

SPRING (2015)

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Directed By: Aaron Moorehead & Justin Benson 
Written By: Justin Benson 
Cinematography By: Aaron Moorehead 
Editor: Aaron Moorhead, Justin Benson & Michael Felker 

Cast: Lou Taylor Pucci, Nadia Hilker, Jeremy Gardner, Vanessa Bednar, Shane Brady

A young man in a personal tailspin flees the US to Italy, where he sparks up a romance with a woman harboring a dark, primordial secret. Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead claim they wrote the film as a counterpoint to Anne Rice’s The Vampire Chronicles in that it is about a creature who actually enjoys its strange condition.

The film is a foreign romantic fantasy with supernatural elements. That depends more on the conversation to reveal character, elements, and story. rather than just visuals. So that you notice it’s BEFORE SUNRISE influence early. While still having more genre elements.

It is more talkative then Action-oriented, Essentially a dark romantic fantasy

The film starts off dramatically. That makes you wonder where it is exactly going. Though it figures out a nice convenient way to get the main character overseas, we get to know all about him. So like him throughout we wonder about this mysterious femme fatale. Wondering his backstory would be too much mystery.

So the film introduced us to him early. To continuously stay on his side. Allowing us to be more in his shoes and probably knowing what he will do. Rather than continuously questioning his morals and character. Though disappointingly as what gets him to go. Is more of a threat, but never truly explored it come back to.

I am not going to lie. While the film is good what makes it memorable is the lead actress Nadia Hilker who while watching you believe a new big-screen goddess is being introduced.

The film works like the leading character. We get excited once the lead actress Nadia Hilker is on screen and after we are introduced to her. The anticipation until she appears on screen again becomes deafening.

Though after getting to know her. We realize that something is up. Not that the film doesn’t heavily hint at it half the time. Yet we are still fascinated by her.

Like her nature of letting him in and then abandoning him physically and emotionally. Never truly explaining what she is so open to interpretation. She is so stunning that we fully understand his addiction to her and acceptance of her behavior continuously. Sometimes even wishing the film was more all about her and her character’s way of life.

At first, it doesn’t seem like it will, but the film ends up being full of energy and mystery. That starts more once he travels overseas. As he discovers her. Just as when he romances her. we both discover the town revealing both beauties.

Though it feels like a film more of youth than anything. Just as with any romantic love story. The film takes it’s time to set up. Still rather quick allowing for real circumstances

Happy to see Lou Taylor up on the big screen in a lead. He always seems more like a character actor. Who is good looking in a thoroughly modern way. Finally getting a role that he is effective in and makes a mark. He feels real here.

Though it does seem like some effort at times. Go into making him seem cooler, sensitive, and tough to a degree. Though also pretty average in certain ways.

The filmmakers choose to use their locations strongly as we are constantly in picturesque beautiful locations. That makes the smaller scale story feel like that as we are thrown in what feels like epic waters.

The camerawork sometimes positions itself. So that we are right there but also a voyeur. Reminding us. Though we are close. We are watching a story.

The film has a few too many zooms and close-ups of scenery, landscapes, and coasts. In between scenes At times. That is the result of us by drones to film those segments. These shots when done more to impress and show off than anything. Maybe open up the story and land.

The special effects are impressive and are truly explored in one transformation scene, fully.

Even if not, up to a certain point the film seems like a look at love and modern relationships.

It’s obvious on it’s initial influences and thankfully gets more intriguing as it goes along. Like it really wants to separate itself from other indies. Yet feels a little gimmicky to please two masters or two different frames of thought. Yet later to tease the audience with an explanation gives a confusing technical/biological explanation that gorges it a certain context. Yet really only sets up an either/or end.

By the end, the film has a more twilight zone type set-up or seems headed for one. Even if those last moments are precious.

GRADE: B-

MONSTER’S UNIVERSITY (2013)

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Directed By: Dan Scanlon
Written & Story By: Dan Scanlon, Robert L. Baird & Daniel Gerson
Editor: Greg Snyder

Cast: (Voices of) John Goodman, Billy Crystal, Helen Mirren, John Ratzenberger, Steve Buscemi, Joel Murray, Sean Hayes, Dave Foley, Aubrey Plaza, Charlie Day, Alfred Molina, Tyler Labine, Nathan Fillion, Bill Hader,John Krasinski, Bonnie Hunt, Julia Sweeney, Bobby Moynihan

Mike Wazowski and James P. Sullivan are an inseparable pair, but that wasn’t always the case. From the moment these two mismatched monsters met they couldn’t stand each other. “Monsters University” unlocks the door to how Mike and Sulley overcame their differences and became the best of friends.

Well, it is hard to make a sequel to match the original and continue a story that makes you care as much especially as you already have been introduced to the characters so there isn’t much to reveal and when it does it feels almost like a cop-out. So what to do make a prequel. This shows us how the characters got to the place of the first film. How they met and became friends. The good thing is it allows the audience to be reintroduced to the characters again when they were younger and not so knowledgeable. The problem lies in that we already know their future for the most part so there isn’t that much suspense it relies on the story and film to keep us interested as we get there. The film can still surprise us but must stay in the plausible realm and not introduce elements that never come into play later. At least they can introduce new characters and give us some insight Into the ones we see in the original, but only one dimensional.

Here there are many hilarious sides and minor characters.

I am a big fan of the original film and was pleasantly surprised at how this film keeps the same amount of humor out of the little details. Now the original was grand in scope. This seems a little more contained and suffers a bit because of it. Yet t still manages to be fun and funny. Thanks to a bigger supporting cast. Though I will say that as a fan of the first film this isn’t quite as good, a nice continuation.  

Mike’s parents were originally planned to be included in the story. They would drop Mike off for his first day at Monsters University. However, director Dan Scanlon decided to drop them from the finished film to make Mike seem just that much more vulnerable.

There is a line in the first MONSTERS INC. Where Mike says that Sully has been jealous of his looks since the fourth grade. Since this movie was going to show Mike and Sully’s meeting in college, it obviously contradicts that line. Director Dan Scanlon admitted that there was some conflict behind that and even had one treatment show Sully and Mike meet in the fourth grade than skipping ahead to their university years. Pete Docter (director of the first Monsters, Inc.) and John Lasseter personally told Scanlon that they loved that he was honored that one line said in the movie, but he “…had to what was best for the story”. As a result, the line was put aside and Sully and Mike would be shown meeting in university. As a joke, Scanlon said that Mikes like in the first movie is “an old monster expression.”

One of the things that bother me about these films is what they are marketed on the fact that these scary monsters while a bit freakish look so cuddly.

John Ratzenberger makes his traditional Pixar film appearance, reprising his role as Yeti (a.k.a. The Abominable Snowman) from Monsters, Inc. Yeti’s job in the Monsters, Inc. mailroom is a nod to John’s famous role as postman Cliff Clavin in Cheers. Yeti warns Mike and Sully that tampering with the mail is punishable by exile to the human world, foreshadowing his exile in Monsters, Inc.

It also sends a mixed message that what we fear is largely made up by ourselves with a mixture of circumstances. That those bumps in the night are truly more simple and innocent then what our imaginations have written for us to believe at the moment. It also seems to teach you to Nurture more. Natural talent to reach your desire. Though it also says you don’t necessarily need a school of you to have the desire and drive you can still achieve what you want. Which is true for some but certainly not all.

This film can’t help but harm you and you may even find yourself getting a bit emotional towards the end as you don’t want to leave these characters and are proud of them. The supporting cast of characters is hilarious that I would see a spin-off movie with them on at least a short film adventure with them.

This is the best Billy crystal has been in a while even if it is just his voice. Though with this film it doesn’t feel like he is ab-libbing or doing as much shtick as he did the first time. He seems much more tied to the script.

While not as great as the original a respectable companion to It.

 Grade: B

EDEN LAKE (2008)

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Written & Directed: James Watkins
Cinematography By: Christopher Ross
Editor: Jon Harris

 Cast: Michael Fassbender, Kelly Reilly, Thomas Turgoose, Tara Ellis, Jack O’Connell

Nursery teacher Jenny and her boyfriend Steve, escape for a romantic weekend away. Steve, planning to propose, has found an idyllic setting: a remote lake enclosed by woodlands and seemingly deserted. The couple’s peace is shattered when a gang of obnoxious kids encircles their campsite. Reveling in provoking the adults, the gang steals the couple’s belongings and vandalizes their car leaving them completely stranded. When Steve confronts them, tempers flare and he suffers a shocking and violent attack. Fleeing for help, Jenny is subject to a brutal and relentless game of cat-and-mouse as she desperately tries to evade her young pursuers and find her way out of the woods.

This is the film WOLF CREEK should have been. It’s just pure viciousness that remains true to its nature. It even reminds me of the film WHO CAN KILL A CHILD. While having its own identity. It’s an under the radar gem That is a stark and shocking thriller.

The movie starts off just ok and I wasn’t looking likely was going to get any better. Just your run of the mill type of thriller, but as the movie goes on. It kicks it into high hear and becomes quite the show stopper.

The parts of the film I liked we’re the sociopathic leader who regards animal’s lives more emotionally then human life. And how the gang was all for terrorizing the couple, but when it comes to killing they start to gain consciences and feel guilt. Showing their age.

It gets confusing as two characters all of a sudden just disappear and nothing Is ever mentioned of them again.

From the beginning knowing what type of film this is you do want the teenagers to die to a point. Yet you feel sorry and barbaric when some do but cheer onion when others kick the bucket.

Then the sensational ending makes the film all worth it. It just leaves you with your jaw on the floor, though you kind of suspect it was coming though not in the way it does. When you see it, it goes further than your imagination. It’s what really puts the film a slight notch above some of the other films of its type and genre.

I suspect the lead actress Kelly Reilly was chosen more for her look especially her eyes as they are used constantly in close-ups and shadows. She is an actress who I have been following in other films and whose star is beginning to rise finally.

Michael Fassbender Is also in this film right before he started to become a star, I kind of like his career before he became a star as he had more of a character actor’s resume and constantly shocking with his range. The roles he takes now are also big in range, but feel a bit safer and celebrated. This is a respectful Skeleton in his closet. In this role even though kind of a yuppie dick, he doesn’t deserve the things that happen to him.

This is a very cruel movie. That is why I like it and what makes it special. It manages to keep surprising you through it’s actions and violence, That feel Despicable but realistic. Some of the violence feels misplaced though eventual.

The film seems simple and like a genre exercise, but reveals a certain deepness in some scenes. Showing There is more to the film then what meets the eye.

 Grade: B

HUBIE HALLOWEEN (2020)

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Directed By: Steven Brill

Written By: Tim Herlihy & Adam Sandler 

Cinematography: Seamus Tierney 

Editor: J.J. Titone, Brian Robinson & Tom Costen

Cast: Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Ray Liotta, George Wallace, Tim Meadows, Maya Rudolph, Julie Bowen, Shaquille O’Neal, Steve Buscemi, Rob Schneider, Blake Clark, Colin Quinn, June Squibb, Jackie Sandler, Noah Schnapp, Paris Berelc, Karan Brar, Sadie Sandler, Sunny Sandler, China Anne McClain, Kym Whitley, Allen Covert, Lavell Crawford, Mikey Day, Peyton List 

Despite his devotion to his hometown of Salem (and its Halloween celebration), Hubie Dubois is a figure of mockery for kids and adults alike. But this year, something is going bump in the night, and it’s up to Hubie to save Halloween.

While I can admire the film for being strictly for kids with a star-studded cast. It is purely for them as it comes off as silly and pretty stupid, but at least not another vacation comedy for Sandler. Who does seem to put in an effort here. 

Though it pretty much has his typical storyline. This one feels more like one of his earlier films only In the fact that he plays mroe of a loser man-boy who eventually must learn to grow up. Though still has a very attractive woman in love with him for the thinnest of reasons.

While the film has very few laughs if you give yourself over to it. One can see why surprisingly many people are giving this movie mroe the benefit of the doubt. Again as is more innocent than some of his mroe recent films and it feels like a film we need more of these days in these trying and cynical times.

Ultimately this feels like Adam Sandler making. Up another character with a strange voice to show his inner child never left. That feels like his CANTEEN BOY character from SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE not only grown up but with a Halloween theme.

This is another film where the cast is filled with mostly his friends and former co-workers. Where half the fun is seeing what roles they will play and when they will pop up.

This seems like a film where the cast had more fun cracking each other up more than bringing too many laughs to the screen. 

It feels like the script was written from the point of view of two parents wanting to make a film for their kids and putting in all the clean pubs they could for reacting to this generation and trying to keep it clean and immature but with a child’s view of the world. While not necessarily what I was expecting which might have lead to a personal disappointment. 

This film might be what you need for kids seeking something with more of an edge and cute and not having to worry if it is too offensive. As plenty of jokes will go over their head

The film is mostly silly overall and aimed at a kid audience. Using the stars more to lure adults in and watch some respected actors act silly.

Grade: D+

VAMPIRES VS. THE BRONX (2020)

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Story & Directed By: Oz Rodriguez 

Written By: Blaise Hemingway 

Cinematography: Blake McClure 

Editor: Sara Shaw & Alex O’Flinn 

Cast: Jaden Michael, Gerald Jones III, George Diaz IV, Cliff “Method Man” Smith, Coco Jones, Joel “The Kid Mero” Martinez, Sarah Gadon, Shia Whigham, Zoe Saldana, Judy Marte, Chris Redd, Jeremie Harris, Imani Lewis, Jordan Tyson, Torre Alexandre, Adam David Thompson 

A group of young friends from the Bronx fight to save their neighborhood from gentrification…and vampires.

The film manages to have an opening celebrity kill to try to throw you off and gives the film some star power and sets out the gauntlet to show that anyone can be a victim in this film. 

My love for this film might be because it so a film That is so recognizably New York and relatable to ave rain extent when you come to the neighborhood and the characters. An element that is disappearing in New York and not necessarily modernizing. 

This is a movie made by a New Yorker for New Yorkers. The title gives away the plot but also gives it a sheen that seems like a gimmick or an exploitation movie title. That actually has a lot of heart and surprisingly a coming of age tale partially. While keeping the genre elements.

The film is kind of a modern-day urban  LOST BOYS. Even mimicking a scene from in the latter half of the film. Or even the film THE MONSTER SQUAD only all with vampires instead of a choice of movie monsters  If looking more for mood, this film is a horror, but the appeal is more aimed at teens who are the protagonists and heroes though more humorous. Offering a film for a neglects audience with crossover appeal. 

As this is an Amblin type film. It’s never scary and while it does have violence. it never gets too gory.  Tying into the STRANGER THINGS audience a bit.

A flavorful offering slice of life with colorful characters of color with a natural presence, personalities that make them charismatic.

The film is constantly humorous, while also horror in a kind of old school classic horror way. It’s a film that is nurturing and wears it’s Inspirations while trying to create some and subvert some coming of age cliches. 

A good gentrification analogy making it look more like a species battle or battle of the living undead. Following in Jordan Peele’s and George Romero’s social commentary or socially conscious genre filmmaking. A genre movie that informs while being a solid genre specimen itself.

The film presents an urban neighborhood. Not in a bad light for once but as a colorful, cultural fin and supportive community. A film obviously made by a resident or insider to the neighborhood. As the film isn’t stereotypical nor does it talk down to the audience or characters. As it remains a self-contained adventure with supernatural elements.

Like they don’t have enough to worry about day to day. Now the supernatural who want them exterminated for access to what they were never concerned with or thought they were too good for. Again Europeans trying to take over land cultivated by the locals for decades. 

Nice to see a film about a community coming. Together.

Satirizing gentrification taking over urban neighborhoods and spaces with new stores and posters that seems to take over and work like subliminal messages and inside jokes. Similar to those in the movie THEY LIVE. Not necessarily a message movie but has a minor one.

It’s like reading a young adult book, not necessarily the audience for the film but get into it nonetheless. Easily could have gone the exaggerated route of slapstick sort of HOUSE PARTY 2.

It’s nice to see people of color in this type of film and be the main characters. As I am all for more people of color in horror films. Though less as victims or the first one killed. And usually the only one in the film, usually the provider of illegal substances or drugs. Still desire more representation even though it still counts but more equal. If the victims and protagonists are in the same number. 

It’s only main weakness might be that it is a little predictable. Though it ends up being a fun rollicking adventure with characters you rarely see in movies especially this type. 

Grade: B

3 FROM HELL (2019)

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Written & Directed By: Rob Zombie

Cinematography: David Daniel

Editor: Glenn Garland

Cast: Sherri Moon Zombie, Bill Moseley, Sid Haig, Jeff Daniel Phillips, Richard Brake, Emilio Rivera, Dee Wallace, Dot Marie Jones, Lucinda Jenney, Richard Edson, Clint Howard, Sean Whalen, Sylvia Jeffries, Kevin Jackson, Pancho Moler, Daniel Roebuck, Wade Williams, Richard Riehle, Tracey A. Leigh, Steven Michael Quezada, Danny Trejo, 

After barely surviving prison, the demented Firefly clan goes on the run, unleashing a whole new wave of murder, madness, and mayhem.

It’s understandable that this is a franchise that is popular. So while after THE DEVIL’S REJECTS one would suspect there would be no sequel. Here we find out the characters somehow survived the last film. Proving the success of that movie but also leaving this film with some pretty big shoes to fill.

Now the characters are serving life and lose another popular character. The film telegraphs itself with a reference to the movie DESPERATE HOURS to clue you in where it is going. So the first half plays on a variation of that. One escaped prisoner and an accomplice hold the warden’s wife and another couple hostage for the warden to breakout another prisoner. 

There are more requisite killings and implied rape rather than showing, but halfway into the movie realized this plays as more of the same. Which one would expect but the first two films at least tried to distinguish themselves and seemed to have reasoned. This film just seems to be ugly and showcasing brutality for the hell of it. The film realizes this a bit towards the middle then becomes a road picture that ends up featuring a stand-off in Mexico. Not before the film decides to show off these killers skills and let the guys have fantasy sex with willing females.

Some could argue it goes for realism. As the film stays grimy from head to toe, but also makes the Characters even the victims. Evil in their own way with intention. One can understand them not being innocent but in one scene does the warden have to do drugs and be revealed to be having an affair before eventually meeting his doom? Is it to show that the so-called straight-laced moral majority are just as dirty as those they preach against only they do their acts behind closed doors? Ok but as you are playing to an audience that already believes that. The sting just isn’t as sharp. 

The film for the few times it shows style still seems stuck on just trying to justify and dress up the requisite kills. While staying low brown it offering cameos to recognizable character actors.

It also seems like as each film seems to have a style of the past this more touches on the 1980s

As the film keeps all the ugliness that writer/director Rob Zombie seems to revel in and he can be a good filmmaker. When he seems to have more of a  passion for his material. What he is working on as at least with most of his movies he here is at least one memorable trait that makes them memorable. Here it seems more inspired than his last film 31 but still a placeholder more than anything. As we are left to bask in the carnage. Noticeably lower budgeted than the previous films 

The Motley Crue of horror movies what once might have been shocking and seen as breaking the rules cinematic outlaws now just seems familiar and a little out of touch but you still give a chance to as hoping to rekindle a flame or at least take a look back at the memorable times 

They all seem to have new chest tattoos 

Just feels like a NATURAL BORN KILLERS riff of serial killers on the run but not going too far and being written in a film Sam Peckinpah might have made as it turns into a western with a last standoff again 

Turns the ruthless savages into the heroes we are made to root for 

Grade: C-

HOCUS POCUS (1993)

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Directed By: Kenny Ortega

Written By: Mick Garris & Neil Cuthbert

Story by: Mick Garris & David Kirschner 

Cinematography: Hiro Narita 

Editor: Peter R. Berger 

Cast: Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy, Omri Katz, Thora Birch, Vanessa Shaw, Larry Bagby, Doug Jones, Charles Rocket, Sean Murray, Kathleen Freeman 

A curious youngster moves to Salem, where he struggles to fit in before awakening a trio of diabolical witches that were executed in the 17th century.

This film has garnered a cult following over the years. Unfortunately, I am not one of that crowd. Even though when it came out I was really looking forward to seeing it. 

By all means, this is a film one should hate, but I don’t. It’s not good but it is cute. Perfect for kids who should love it as it fits in with what would seem to be their fantasy. Mildly scary but not violent and it also includes all the ghostly elements of monsters. Not to mention that is who the film is made for.

It also is a throwback to when movies came out aimed at them that were goofy and maybe simple but relied on stars and not so many special effects.

Another reason it’s not a total failure is that it’s almost like watching a bunch of adults playing dress-up. The three main antagonists Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as a coven of witches watching them. As the witches from the past getting acquainted with modern times and mindsets are silly.

One can admit to having a weakness for Bette Midler movies. Just as some people have a weakness for Barbara Streisand movies. She is just an amazing performer and even as ridiculous as this is. She puts her all into it and seems to be having fun. Her and the cast are the reasons I even watched the film in the first place.

One of the reasons she did this film supposedly is that she passed in the film SISTER ACT. Which revitalized Whoopi Goldberg’s career so she took this hoping for a smash hit. Unfortunately, it bombed and it’s been rare that she has really been on-screen since. Yet over the years, it has become a cult classic.

The film is dated and gaudy but good for children. As it is simple and colorful. If it was made now it would have been a film that would have been a Disney channel original movie.

definitely, a children’s film that tries to be a bigger feature and modernized but ultimately is more a fairy tale or bedtime stories strictly for kids. There is nothing wrong with that. So that it is perfect for it’s core audience.

Directed by Kenny Ortega the movie has certain rhythms which other than having Bette Midler as the star there is a bunch of scenes that revolve around singing or music or group scenes of dancing or crowds moving together.

This is pretty much a Disney original movie you would normally see on their channel. Only at the time when they still made these features for theaters and got big stars to headline. So much bigger-budgeted and higher expectations. So at least it offers a family Film

It has an innocence yet remains dark to a degree. It’s a fun film that never quite got it’s due but finally seems to gain an audience every year due to it being entertaining. You can’t be cynical or dark. Go into this movie or you will miss It’s appeal and nuances

It has a feckless teenage romance story in it that goes nowhere except to maybe appeal to that demographic. Who wouldn’t be going to see this film anyway unless forced to. In the end, the film is perfectly harmless. 

Wait for it on cable or even television, but even they don’t play it that much. But really it’s a movie where looking at the poster you know what you are getting yourself into.

Grade: C+

HALLOWEEN: RESSURECTION (2002)

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Directed By: Rick Rosenthal 
Written By: Larry Brand & Sean Hood 
Story By: Larry Brand 
(characters) – Debra Hill & John Carpenter 
Cinematography By: David Geedes 
Editor: Robert A. Ferretti 

Cast: Bianca Kajlich, Katee Sachoff, Ryan Merriman, Busta Rhymes, Tyra Banks, Luke Kirby, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Billy Kay, Sean Patrick Thomas, Jamie Lee Curtis

Serial Killer Michael Myers is not finished with Laurie Strode, and their rivalry finally comes to an end. But is this the last we see of Myers? Freddie Harris and Nora Winston are reality programmers at DangerTainment and are planning to send a group of 6 thrill-seeking teenagers into the childhood home of Myers. Cameras are placed all over the house and no one can get out of the house… and then Michael arrives home!

Director Rick Rosenthal previously directed Halloween II. 21 years earlier.

Originally, the executives of Miramax wanted to continue the series by creating a whole new story of which didn’t have anything to do with Michael Myers after the last film, in a similar manner to Halloween III: Season of the Witch. However, poll results conducted throughout fan websites proved to the producers that fans wanted Michael Myers to return again.

This film is quite a shame. The last film in the series that this ended up being at least as far as the old regime, untitled was set up with a re-imagining by Writer-Director Rob Zombie, The last film of this series HALLOWEEN: H20 was supposed to be the final film, but as that film was a huge success for Dimension Films, of course, they decided to make another film. Now while the last film was Noteworthy for the return of original star Jamie Lee Curtis. Who seemed only to come back to end the series. This film has her return for the beginning of the film only to quickly dispatch her like it is nothing. luckily, This proved to be the nail in the coffin for the series.

Jamie Lee Curtis agreed to do her part, only to make sure her character, Laurie Strode (or herself) wouldn’t appear in another sequel. (At the time of the film’s initial release, executive producers Malek Akkad, and Moustapha Akkad tried to explain it by claiming Jamie Lee Curtis “was so impressed with the screenplay, that she wanted a large part in it”. She has publicly stated that was not the case, she was under contract to do it.)

This film is like a time capsule of it’s time as it’s cast is filled with up and comers and some celebrities of the time (Tyra Banks, Busta Rhymes) With the technology of having cameras strapped to the actors in what was supposed to be haunted house live on the internet. Inspired most likely buy shows like GHOSTHUNTERS and MTV’s FEAR. which are almost precursors of what would become Found Footage Horror films. As the film goes along it is shot like a regular film, but then will break up to have scenes that come from the security cameras and the P.O.V. of the cameras strapped to the actors. Then as this footage is being broadcast over the internet, We get to see the reactions of the people watching it thinking it is fake, then realizing it is real, though never explaining how their opinions changed. watching it we get to see their appalled reactions and cheers and boo’s as the action plays out. While one member of the party tries to advise the final girl of the film via text on how to survive and where to hide. Though the audience is supposed to in a way represent the reactions of hopefully the audience watching this actual film.It feels more like an audience watching a video game, With extreme reactions and the cheering. So in a way With all these elements, it was also ahead of its time. Though it feels like the film is just filled with fads that it feels like a fad one-off itself.

It should come as no surprise that the film is bad, it’s nice it tried to have some ideas or something new, Though that isn’t good enough. Sort of like one of the more recent HELLRAISER films that tried to modernize the series by making the film a found footage film. This film lends itself more to the new technology, but it feels like a quick Cash-in that isn’t well thought out and just includes the necessary elements needed for the film. Truthfully it doesn’t even matter that it’s Michael Myers. It could be any slasher and the film would still play out the same way. Though in addition to the updates of the film. This film also seems to add definition to the mask of Michael Myers, but strangely it doesn’t truly feel like the character in his movements and demeanor which is truly the only way you could really tell anything about the character.

The film also tries to have a knowing sense of humor about itself, that is cute, but doesn’t really work. As well as references to things of the time that fall flat now, unless you were around and in the know at that time.

Some of the elements of the film are downright embarrassing, The Deaths are largely bloodless, Busta Rhymes at one point gets stabbed twice in the shoulder and looks like he dies that quick that instead of shocking or suspenseful actually comes off as hilarious. Also, one character’s death is off-screen and only is acknowledged as more of a shock popping out of nowhere. that seems to have been an afterthought, cut out of the film in the first place or couldn’t get the actor to come back.

Tyra Banks’ character’s death is possibly a deliberate reference to the head nurse’s death in Halloween II, with the pool of blood dripping onto the garage floor.

Several new endings were written during production and the cast was never sure how the film was actually going to end. Four different endings were filmed, and the director wanted the studio to ship a different ending to each theater, a technique used before during the theatrical release of CLUE. However, the studio disagreed and the endings now appear on the DVD and the Internet.

This film is a good starter film for those younger viewers who have always been scared of the more excessive horror films, or secretly want to build up their stamina for violence in films. As this film has all the typical cliches of a horror film. The fake scares the Just when you think you are safe surprise and the violence that is so light it could almost run on television and not have to make any cuts. It also includes just a hint of sex in the film that is flirted with but never follows through with and never becomes graphic.

In the end, the film never comes alive. It just feels plain and simple. No pizzazz that could have played as a straight to DVD title except that the series at the time still had some juice and was recognizable as a brand. Of course, as was common at the time the film is made more to appeal for teens and was more interested in scares more than violence and style.

GRADE: F