Tag: Comedy

SPUN (2002)

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Directed & Edited By: Jonas Akerlund 
Written By: Will De La Santos & Creighton Vero 
Cinematography By: Eric Broms

Cast: Jason Schwartzmen, Mickey Rourke, Brittany Murphy, John Leguizamo, Mena Suvari, Josh Peck, Patrick Fugit, Debbie Harry, China Chow, Charlotte Ayana, Julia Mendoza, Eric Roberts, Nicholas Gonzalez, Larry Drake, Rob Halford, Tony Kaye, Ron Jeremy, Billy Corgan 

A drug dealer introduces one of his customers, a ‘speed freak’, to the man who runs the meth lab. A crazy three-day adventure ensues.

This film is just a dirty as the characters it portrays it seems to be trying to send the message of drawing you in with the visuals and showing you the life of a tweaker so you can see how pathetic and disgusting the life is but at times it seems to also make some characters mythically cool like the character of the cook played by Mickey Rourke.. 


Worse all the bad things seem to be played more for comedy than anything else like telling a story. I wanted to like the film but only found a few things noteworthy or fascinating.


Like most movies that involve drugs as central to the plot and addicts as most of the main characters, there is a lot of misadventures that you think are going to add up to something like a plot but it ends up the movie doesn’t really have anything to say. 


Sure visually it is great and the cast is likable but they need better material they inhabit the characters but if the characters are just there with nothing to do then it’s just like the life of tweakers a waste.

The movie is directed by Jonas Akerlund who has directed videos for Madonna, He certainly has an eye for visuals but he needs to find material that matches his eye here he doesn’t find it. There seems to be an epidemic with foreign directors when they make American movies they seem to like to direct stories that focus on the underground and the downtrodden there are little joy’s and mostly bleak existences which is there right to do but at least make it dramatic or interesting that would be nice instead of making it seem like a photoshoot with a theme no substance and all deteriorating gloss. 


 There are some really gross scenes like Mena Suvari having a bowel movement or John Leguizamo’s constant masturbating or the castration of Patrick fugit I can understand the need to be shocking with your dark comedy to be noticed and make a statement.

A drug dealer introduces one of his customers, a ‘speed freak’, to the man who runs the meth lab. A crazy three-day adventure ensues.


it’s just a wasted endeavor here, in fact, the most interesting character is in the movie but really doesn’t do too much and that is Mickey Rourke the movie isn’t all bad it‘s worth a watch but it’s not as good or revolutionary as it thinks it is. 


You get to see The strippers, The dealers, Porn shops, and all the usual taboo material. But for some reason it seems rather tame and not cutting edge. 

The film has a certain hyper stylization in a kind of trash culture. Trying to glamorize it. It’s distracting though while the film tries to offer characterizations to give us in the audience, people to care about and follow. It also uses then and their pathetic was as folly for humor more than anything else.

It also was the beginning of what seems to be Brittany Murphy’s third act where she seemed to play floozies, addicts and simpletons. Ladies who just seemed off. As she is attractive but seems so out of it that you wonder if it is method acting.

As depending when you were introduced to her as an actress. At first she was a child star then she grew up and played supporting characters and then leads that were more romantic comedic or comedic then she changed her look a bit and became more dramatic. Then the third act of her career came in films like THE DEAD GIRL and SIN CITY. If you watched her grow from a Child actress to here. You wondered if this was a new phase in her career or developing a type to play. As she went fro. Cute to sexy to skanky. Though still walking to the best fi her own drummer.


The film was originally intended to be a documentary on Meth Cooks. Instead, they just took the story of a meth addict (Co-Writer Will De La Santos) and his experiences chauffering a meth cook around town in Eugene, Oregan for three days. They just embellished the stories to be more cinematic. 


 GRADE: C-

BLUE STREAK (1999)

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Directed By: Les Mayfield 
Written By: Michael Berry, John Blumenthal & Stephen Carpenter 
Cinematography By: David Eggby 
Editor: Michael Tronick 

Cast: Martin Lawrence, Luke Wilson, William Forsythe, Peter Greene, Olek Krupa, Nicole Ari Parker, Dave Chappelle, John Hawkes, Tamala Jones, Richard C. Sarafin, Julio Oscar Mechoso, Jason Kravits, Octavia Spencer 

Miles Logan is a jewel thief. Things go awry while he’s stealing a huge diamond in downtown L.A.: a thief, Deacon, tries a double-cross, the police arrive, and Miles is arrested, but not before he hides the jewel in an air duct of a building under construction. Two years later, he’s out of prison and he heads for the site: it’s L.A.’s new police headquarters! Posing as a reassigned cop, Miles gets into the building, but before he can recover the swag, he’s partnered with a naive detective and sent out to investigate burglaries. With Deacon on his trail, he must recover the diamond, keep the cops fooled, and do a few good deeds as a detective who can think like a criminal.

Before BIG MOMMA’S HOUSE and seeming I he typecast after that to a degree. Martin Lawrence was a hot popular comic, who had a pretty successful film career. This film while not his best was one of the films that was successful.

I will admit to skipping it in theaters to me the only noteworthy aspect of the film was the Jay-Z song on the soundtrack. It was an exclusive single at the time. The whole dressing up as a bad toothed pizza delivery guy in the trailer reeked of bad situation comedy and had no interest. 

Then once it came out on DVD I was working at a video store and had a co-worker who loved to put on African-American cinema all the time which wouldn’t have been so bad  if he had the sense to choose good movies of African American cinema and not the seemingly same 5 films, this was one in rotation. The other I remember being what’s the worst that could happen which I have seen more times he. Necessary probably even more then the people who made it. BLACK KNIGHT . In fact the only good film he ever python was MALCOLM X.

This film was one of the least films he put on and finally one day just to keep it outbid the store I rented it so that I could watch it completely with. Interruptions and have a few days of peace.

What followed was a typical popcorn blockbuster that really offered up no real surprises and to tell the truth you don’t really expect any the film is pretty cut and dry. It’s funny and entertaining and to will forget it pretty soon after watching it. It’s no classic but a good time waster. It keeps the formula of mistaken identity and fish out of water combining them.

The film stocks with the comedy. It flirts with a romantic story line though is quickly abandoned for more of a buddy comedy.

One of the few things that fascinates me about this film ad it’s type is that the stars of the film are supposed to handle all the comedy and everyone else around is kind of the straight men, but usually the supporting characters are so over the top in the personeas hey seem cartoon-ish or comedic themselves. Throwing the film off a bit. Luckily the wackiness ensues when Dave chappelle shows up in a supporting role.

Martin Lawrence is funny and for all his Foul mouthed at times humor. His most graceful aspect is his physical comedy. Even when telling jokes the energy, the faces and his movements all are in-synch to sell his humor ad make you marvel at his talent. I mean he has funny jokes too, but his true talent is in all the other skills he brings to the table.

The film Was supposed to be a hard R rating until they found the film and material worked better as a pg- 13 film. Leaving it open to more all ages access for the audience. As most of the humor seems more inclined for a younger audience. So the plot, Dialogue and characters had to all be rewritten Screenwriter, John August was the last minute Script Doctor for the script

The film introduces Nicole Ari Parker’s character as a strong rival for his character. Though she adds to the story. It almost seemed like a set-up for a kind of love interest. Though the film never seems to quote go there. As his character doesn’t have that much time for that. Nor would the ending make any sense if he still has her as baggage.

This is the first Martin Lawrence showcase where he is the entertainment the real Lead. Even though he is partnered up with Luke Wilson. It seems more like Wilson is a co-star and not another name above the title who Martin Lawrence is the co-star or buddy of. Instead here Lawrence gets to be the one who the camera never leaves and who the story is based around instead of being just he comic relief or the supporting character that he had been relegated to in films such as HOUSE PARTY, HOUSE PARTY 2, BAD BOYS, NOTHING TO LOSE.

He was kind of my first introduction to really following stand-up comedy and comedians. I remember him from HOUSE PARTY then hosting DEF COMEDY JAM. I got his albums and when his career blew up I followed him. I remember classic comedians before him line Eddie Murphy, Rodney Dangerfield, Billy Crystal, George Carlin, Redd Foxx, Richard Pryor, Sam Kinison, Andrew Dice Clay but he was he first I could relate to a point and groin watching him and other comedians on DEF COMEDY JAM, I started to pay attention to stand-up even broadening my admiration for more comics.

They were rebellious (especially after NBC banned Lawrence for his routine on Saturday night live) Comics have been like rock stars to me ever since i mean examine it. they have a talent that looks easy, but once you actually try it realize how hard is to master if you ever really do. Your style and skill is constantly in transition. You spend most of your time on the road in front of crowds. Though there are many in your field somehow your voice and brand manages to stand out and be noticed and admired. You have die hard fans and groupies. Everyone tries to do it, but only the strong survive as you pretty much are open and. Are your soul and ate at the mercy of the crowd.

According to Dave Chappelle, a scene was written during filming in which his character was to wear a dress while disguised as a prostitute. Chappelle adamantly refused. The writers complained to the producers who then tried to convince Chappelle to do the scene but he still refused. According to Chappelle, he felt that it was part of a disturbing trend in which African-American men wear dresses in films.

There were plans to do a sequel which never materialized.

It’s a worthy rental

Grade: C+

DANCE FLICK (2009)

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Directed By: Damien Dante Wayans
Written By: Damien Dante Wayans, Craig Wayans, Kennan Ivory Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans
Cinematography By: Mark Irwin
Editor: Scott Hill

Cast: Damon Wayans Jr. Shoshana Bush, Amy Sedaris, Lochlyn Munro, Essence Atkins, Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Chris Elliott, Keenan Ivory Wayans, David Alan Grier, Kim Wayans, Tichina Arnold, George Gore II, Craig Wayans

Street dancer Thomas Uncles is from the wrong side of the tracks, but his bond with the beautiful Megan White might help the duo realize their dreams as they enter in the mother of all dance battles.

While rarely funny at sending up its targets the film is not witty the jokes are lazy and not very well thought out with its low budget the film just looks cheap Even though it’s not directed by Keenan Ivory Wayans. It is written and directed by the next generation of the Wayans family and while the previous generation had at least some success with a few good and hilarious films. The next generation is not starting off well. Half of the jokes are stand-alone and seems to be more about spoofing pop culture than staying on course and spoofing all of these teenage dance movies like, SAVE THE LAST DANCE which it seems to be mostly inspired by. And films like STOMP THE YARD, STEP UP, HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL and HAIRSPRAY.


The film really never stays on the theme which makes the movie seem like a wide collection of skits rather than having a natural plot. This seems to be a common problem in a lot of the modern-day spoof films which seem to only be made to be year-end revues of all things pop culture instead of the subject or film(s) they are supposed to be spoofing.


Which I guess is because these films strive not to be one joke films so they need to pad the films with unnecessary jokes that have nothing to do with anything else in the film. I realize these films are not made to be cinematic classics but at the least, it should be memorable for being entertaining and good. The film just feels lazy.

The main story is the two leads falling in love and him not only teaching her how to dance but find her passion for it again and gain her self confidence. One of the problems is that the leads look too old to play believable teenagers. Yet none of the performers seem engaging enough to really pay attention to nor do they create characters who are the least bit interesting nor do they have any charisma or personality to engage you to watch them.


Since is not rated R The material feels watered down ad keeps the jokes from going profane and over the top. This is where the Wayans usually excel but here trying to market to a teen audience. So it leaves them kind of shackle.
The film involves separate characters who have nothing to do with each other until near the end when they come together to be a dance crew though they don’t actually do any dancing, they are just there no scenes of them bonding to come together as a team, it just happens.


In fact, one character is introduced and is never used later so there is no reason for the film to spend any real time developing the character who is not even used in running gags he is only around for two scenes. He is not needed at all.

Skip It

GRADE: F

CB4 (1993)

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Directed By: Tamra Davis 
Written By: Chris Rock, Nelson George & Robert LoCash 
Story By: Chris Rock & Nelson George 
Cinematography By: Karl Walter Lindenlaub 
Editor: Earl Watson 

Cast: Chris Rock, Deezer D, Khandi Alexander, Allen Payne, Rachel True, Phil Hartman, Charlie Murphy, Stoney Jackson, Richard Gant, Art Evans, Lawanda Page, Theresa Randle, Willard E. Pugh, Chris Elliot, J.D. Daniels, Shar Jackson, Vanessa Lee Chester, Shirley Hemphill, Lance Crouther 

A “rapumentary”, covering the rise to fame of MC Gusto, Stab Master Arson, and Dead Mike: members of the rap group “CB4”. We soon learn that these three are not what they seem and don’t apear to know as much about rap music as they claim… but a lack of musical ability in an artist never hurts sales, does it? You’ve just got to play the part of a rap star

The film is Rough around the edges, dated by now but still manages to be funny.

The movie is inspired and funny. The film is especially good at making fun of it’s main target the Gangsta rap scene and it’s excess. while it was still going strong. This is more a mainstream and Low budget studio film but not a self aware mockumentary that lends itself to spoof like the movie FEAR OF A BLACK HAT. The funnier and better made of the two films. Though then again I was older by the time I saw the later film and more into hip hop and rap, knowing it’s history by that time.

This is where my love of Chris Rock and his comedy began. I had seen him in SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE. And remembered him in small roles in movies like BOOMERANG, BEVERLY HILLS COP 2 and NEW JACK CITY. But this film felt like it spoke to my generation. Even as I was too young to Watch it. I still saw it in the theater twice and it’s a movie I still watch and return to many times over the years. While not the best made, it still feels fun.

Though there were movies more aimed at me and my age group at the time in particular for urban audiences were the KID n’ Play series of movies like CLASS ACT and the HOUSE PARTY movies which were also rated R and while racy. These films also felt inclusive and rebellious. This is also a film that feels compromised to a degree. As it has a coherent storyline, but gets distracted many times and leaves a lot of plot threads dangling. Which it seems like the credits hint at with cut scenes playing during.

Over the years Chris Rock had been a comedian that I can constantly respond to and identify with. He has the subject of a character who has The whole more suburban upbringing but wanting to feel more down and street as that is what sells and selling yourself out as well as your culture. Just as the contrast between his long term girlfriend versus the groupie who is always around Teaching the characters to be themselves over all the gimmicks get have tried over the years to be popular or get noticed.

The film also gives the late Charlie Murphy an iconic role as the villain Gusto. He is menacing and also hilarious and one of the first performances I truly remember him in. The film even has Chris Rock’s his old SNL co-star The late Phil Hartman in a supporting role. Even though race is involved the movie keeps it’s focus on African-American characters and culture.

While never the best skit writer this is the beginning of Chris rock’s comedic voice more on issues and subjects. It’s still not as sharp as it is now. As at times scenes seem to be more parody or episodic skit like ideas interwoven into the story. It allows the cast to be funny and do some of the lifting.

Behind the scenes Nelson George a writer who I am a big fan of who I had not discovered yet. Whose writing is more about being a music and culture critic. As well as now being an accomplished writer and screenwriter these days. He is one of the producers and Co-writer of the screenplay.

The film aspires to be a little more than it is. It starts off by being a comedy though that takes us to the middle of the film. After that the movie loses it’s focus until the third act where it figures it needs to ends soon and forces more plot elements introduced earlier into the main fold.

As the film does show the motivation for the characters but then as they are achieving their dream they are pulled into controversy by a politician looking for publicity. While also being on the run from the actual Gangster they are emulating. The problem is that the film leaves many loose ends and only seems to solve a few of the problems.

Most will come to the film for comedy and maybe even a nostalgic look back. I will admit that I am an unbiased fan of this and most Chris Rock movies. I support them eve. As some have been disappointing and more focused on remaking stuff and riffing off of it instead of being original. Here at least he seems off to a good start. This was before he made a comeback with his stand-up special BRING THE PAIN. Though this was after he had left SNL. This seemed like a culmination of his stand-up and comedic voice. That showed thematic ideas behind his comedy then.

The film feels too short but that might be due to cuts and. It too much else to add on as that might have introduced other things that would need to be spread around throughout the film. I wish the movie was longer more of an epic. So that it had time to tie up a bunch of loose threads that are left dangling and tackle some other subjects. 

Rachel True cast in another girlfriend role in a budding comedians first lead role in a film they co-wrote (HALF BAKED) and here and even now still looks the same age.

This film lead to a crush and being a fan of actress Khandi Alexander as she looks so drool worthyingly hot in the film. As the ultimate groupie and early model for the mm and finding financial gain from it.

If you remember these days and drone this movie is a test and a great way to look back. If not this movie might not be as strong for you. I can admit I owned the soundtrack to this movie though some parody and at the end a throwback classic to hip hop. There are some songs that are remakes of classic hip hop songs throughout, but most of the music is original. Like the music the movie is very misogynistic. No real strong female voice and when there is quickly becomes more humor and a thorn in the side would expect a little better treatment considering the director is female Tamra Davis.

One of the reasons the film still resonates for me is that I was growing up during that time so it was part of my generations pop culture and at the heart of it. It was one of the first films that felt like it was directed towards me and my generation other the. Being able to identify with it and the lead character.

Learning to be yourself and find your own voice even after being a personality or copying someone else brought you fame. Which is strange because then at the end we find the characters supposedly really rapping but obviously not the actors and they are rapping a classic hip hop song that isn’t theirs. This is also implicated early In the film where they lip synch to rap. Think WAYNE’S WORLD with bohemian rhapsody only here the tape deck is messed up in his car so it goes fast one second and slow the next even as they all dress up in the car like RUN DMC, as that is who the tape they are listening to is by, but also when we see their many attempts to rap and get discovered they usually fail because they are trying gimmicks and not really being themselves or truthful at all. It doesn’t help that we never really see them write or focus on the writing and rapping part ever. The only time it seems like they actually might have talent individually is in the montage of scenes when they break up and the individual singles released.

I realize this is more a silly comedy, but the message is presented. So that it is more in the background. It is just not really focused upon The film is a movie of it’s time. As it came out and partially satirized gangsta rap while it was still around and starting to come upon the end or a new generation of it. While it was dwindling. That was hip but bold and not too late where it would have been more obvious.

This is a kind of classic. One of those films most of my generation remember for better and worse and probably pass it on to another generation. If only as some kind of time capsule.

Grade: B-

THE LOVEBIRDS (2020)

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Directed By: Michael Showalter 
Written by: Brendan Gall & Aaron Abrams
Story By:  Brendan Gall, Aaron Abrams & Martin Geri
Cinematography: Brian Burgoyne 
Editor: Vince Filippone & Robert Nassau

Cast: Issa Rae, Kumail Nanjiani, Paul Sparks, Anna Camp, Kyle Bornheimer, Catherine Cohen, Andrene Ward-Hammond, Barry Rothbart

A couple experiences a defining moment in their relationship when they are unintentionally embroiled in a murder mystery. As their journey to clear their names takes them from one extreme – and hilarious – circumstance to the next, they must figure out how they, and their relationship, can survive the night.

This movie works as a screwball romantic comedy. Where we see the couple get together in the beginning. Then even though still together recognize they are having problems and slowly throughout the film fall in love again.

As they realize how much they care for one another and not judge their relationship by other’s standards or against others.

Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani make a good on-screen pair. They have chemistry even if not romantic chemistry.

It’s fun and funny watching them Go through more and more challenges while on the run to figure out a mystery and clear their names. As they both have manic energy and the film gets more ridiculous as it goes along. Not to mention predictable.

As with everything and issue they talk about in the beginning they end up having to face or deal With, Including how much of this is like the amazing race.

By the end the story is silly but works as a movie. As this is the first film star kumail Nanjiani and director Michael showalter have worked on together since their previous film THE BIG SICK which was oscar nominated. Maybe it was thought they would work on something stronger besides a more out and out mainstream comedy. That more compliments them As they both come from more Comedic backgrounds. Plus neither one wrote this script.

So this comes across as a nice quaint comedy. That reminds one of the old classics where Two comedy stars as a couple must face a madcap humorous adventure together. With each other as the only people they can trust.

It’s also nice to see an interracial romance where race isn’t brought up and still having two minorities in a starring role. Which gives the film certain freedom but also hinders it by not allowing race to come. Into the picture kind of turns a blind eye and makes the characters bland and doesn’t seem to acknowledge them fully.

Though you never take anything in the film seriously. Their chemistry is strong and you believe them as a couple.

The film never gets too complicated.  it just stays simple throughout. 

Grade: C+

THE WEEKEND (2018)

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Written & Directed By: Stella Meghie
Cinematography: Kris Belchevski
Editor: Shannon Baker Davis

Cast: Sasheer Zamata, Tone Bell, Dewanda Wise, Kym Whitley, Y’Lan Noel, Josefina Landeros 

A comedian goes away for the weekend with an ex-boyfriend and his new girlfriend.

It’s nice to see an all-black romantic comedy once in a while. That offers representation and no stereotypes. It also offers a strong independent female lead who is smart, funny, and not desperate.

It’s easy to fall for lead Sasher Zamata and her character. She is charming even if deeply sarcastic and at times rude. Though usually Go for the Dewanda Wise type character, her rival of sorts in the film. As she seems to be given short change. We barely get to know her and she is treated almost like a villain. When she is actually Put in an awkward situation and treated kind of badly by most involved over the weekend. 

So that whIle Sasher Zamata’s Character is the protagonist and whom we are supposed to root for. She is kind of mean and is written off as being sarcastic to be defensive because she is afraid of getting hurt and being vulnerable. Yet she seems to mostly get her way most of the time. So that rationalization doesn’t always work, but then again is she really that different than guys in these types of romantic comedies? who are ass holes for the most part throughout and unmotivated except when they finally find the one and then no matter how underhanded they might be to be with that person we are meant to root for them be axis they are presented as the underdog?

The film Feels awkward and at times airless due to lack of a score partially. Though like the film and the performances, script, and direction. Just feels like something is missing. Yet it wins you over and stays entertaining. 

Though clear from The beginning where it is going. We Want her to end up with the other guy. The one she has no history with, Who seems more deeper and fun. 

As she has chemistry with both her ex and the next guy. She is a little obvious in her attraction for her ex and her ex makes it obvious he wants her still too but can’t Make up his mind. Which is not only frustrating for her but also for us. 

Though happy the way it ended not storybook and a little Unexpected.

In the end, the film that Is a nice little romantic comedy that is more about bonds and relationships rather than romance and fantasy fulfillment. 

Grade: C+

TOP FIVE (2014)

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Written & Directed By: Chris Rock 
Cinematography By: Manuel Alberto Claro 
Editor: Annie McGabe 

Cast: Chris Rock, Gabrielle Union, Romany Malco, J.B. Smoove, Rosario Dawson, Anders Holm, Leslie Jones, Kevin Hart, Michael Che, Jay Pharoah, Ben Vereen, Cedric The Entertainer, Karlie Redd, Sherri Shepherd, Tracy Morgan, Hayley Marie Norman, Brian Regan, Tichina Arnold, Luis Guzman, Sherrod Small

A comedian tries to make it as a serious actor when his reality-TV star fiancée talks him into broadcasting their wedding on her TV show.

This more than makes up for those GROWN-UP movies. Coincidently Chris Rock wrote the screenplay in his trailer during the filming of Grown Ups 2

Financed and produced independently.

Chris Rock doesn’t choose like other filmmakers to romanticize or sugarcoat New York as a wonderland of fantasy and fairy tales. He wants to represent New York as it truly is beautiful, yet with an attitude but a certain charm you cannot resist. It has an ugly side, but usually like it so much and in love with it we take the good with the bad and barely notice anymore the rougher aspects of the city. Sure the visuals could be more vivid, but as it is said comedy isn’t pretty plus it keeps your head in the game that this is somewhat gritty and real.

We all see and experience things differently. This is his truth so can’t argue with his vision. We can only be happy he doesn’t compromise in any way. Which is said of more artistically inclined or visual directors? Though should be said of more directors who are open and have something to say that isn’t cookie cutter.

While some aspects of the film could have been more subtle, Their meaning was in the right place. Nonetheless, the film leaves plenty of laugh out loud comedy.

You can see the film’s cinematic influences here and there. There is a little SULLIVAN’S TRAVELS by the end. A dash of BEFORE SUNRISE in the structure. Some Woody Allen references and some things leftover from his co-Starring role In Julie Delpy’s 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK.

The film feels cathartic for him, Going around the city, not necessarily discovering it. As it is both their hometown, but more or less touring familiar places.

Throughout the film, each major and some minor cast members get a scene here and there to shine dramatically or comedically, sometimes both.

The film has some commentary on race and especially stardom. Not exactly the exposure you might expect, but at least exposure to it. Shocking especially how outspoken he has been recently about it in interviews.

Rock’s Films before always managed to shine the spotlight on race though felt more like a gimmick and silly, rather than the satire and sharp voice you were hoping for.

I THINK I LOVE MY WIFE was funny, realistic, and a step forward, but lacked the edge and felt more like a bit of an acting exercise with some domestic comedy and drama. Though the film didn’t exactly cover any new ground or present it in a different way.

As he spends the day with the reporter getting to know her. He is revealed to us as they are to one another usually in flashbacks to the stories they tell and the answers that are given as visuals to accompany them.

Rosario Dawson really gets a chance to flex her acting muscles here. She is finally not just the girlfriend or love interest with no personality or real presence. Here she is charming, complex, and real not necessarily an ingénue. Here she has depth and getting the chance to be comedic herself. Not by accident either.

There are certain Flashbacks in this film that are downright scandalous. That involves Rosario Dawson and Chris Rock. Those are nasty, revealing, and push the limits of what can be shown on screen in an r-rated comedy. Though they are the spirit of Chris Rock, this film and his comedy. They are just as dangerous he is. It reminds the audience why he is a crucial voice in comedy.

Also, these flashbacks work as it breaks up the dialogue and story in a meaningful way. So that the asides and stories are more revealing in character and also provide a source of comedy also. The vignettes sometimes with just the reaction are hilarious but always manages to come back to harsh realities.

The strip club scenes best the end of the film are filled with hilarious cameos that remind us of how funny the people in them can be and are also fun seeing them all out of their element and still can be funny. As they are obviously doing it as a favor to Chris rock

though I have usually really enjoyed Chris rock’s films before. I LOVED this film and was quite surprised when others around me saw this film before me remark on how shocked they were that it was so good. (Some of whom I have watched his films with and they enjoyed them. at least that is what they told me. Only a few I knew didn’t like his earlier work in films) I believe the reason this film worked so well for the audience is that not only is it personal. It also shows growth.

He opens up and lets others stand in the spotlight on the sidelines. Even though the major hurdles are on his shoulders. This is why you can excuse when some scenes come off as falsies a bit as does his acting once in awhile. As the saying goes in any sport. Sure you have the star athlete but you also want to have as much talent around them to learn and also to help. Teach and have each other strive and inspire one another.

As a Chris Rock fan, this film means a lot as it is a thank you to a degree to the fans and a treat as he shows he still has it and is finally comfortable being himself. Speaking his thoughts and not worrying so much about how people will take things, nor does he care about maintaining a certain image. It is almost also a fuck you to doubters as he shows he is just not one thing. As this might be one of the last times he might be able to make a film so why not with something you can be proud of and be able to say what you want to without having to worry about censoring it because of studio notes or worrying about what is or isn’t marketable.

He manages to bring an old school feel to the film while making it feel constantly vital. Especially as in some scenes the background score is classic hip-hop beats slowed down that it almost sounds classical as they are laid bare. I hope he stays on his current path.

Dave Chappelle was offered a role but turned it down. Which makes sense as he has a lot of comedians and comedian friends throughout play roles.

In the movie, Chris Rock can be seen wearing a Red Hot Chili Peppers t-shirt. Rock is a well-known fan and friend of the band. He even directed the band’s 2006 music video for their song ‘Hump de Bump.’

Chris Rock has always been a comedian. who seemed to strive for more or to be seen as more. He seems to be striving to be more of an artist. I have watched his career rise as I was always familiar with him and looked up to him. So he has been around on my radar for a while.

Though I have had a few chances to meet him. At most of my retail jobs. I never had the courage nor really the chance to tell him how much of a fan I was. His comedy and career have always been a bond with me and my family as I have seen his live yours regularly as well as usually going to see his films in the theater.

This film had a positive effect on me. Making me profoundly happy. I am happy that he is getting the respect and appreciation he deserves.

I believe even non-fans or occasional ones will enjoy and respect the film.

Though the meaning is there. The film has it’s targeting and lands some solid hits. Though not as many jabs were thrown. Can be rude and lewd out of nowhere but that is part of the charm as it is smart about it.

Grade: B+

BOO! A MADEA HALLOWEEN (2016)

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Written & Directed By: Tyler Perry
Cinematography: Richard Vialet
Editor: Larry Sexton

Cast: Tyler Perry, Cassi Davis, Diamond White, Liza Koshy, Bella Thorne, Yousef Barker, Jimmy Tatro,  Lavell Crawford, Corey Holcomb, Adele Givens, Lexy Panterra, Patrice Lovely, Andre Hall, Tyga, Mike Tornabene, Angela Ray, Dominique Witten, 

Madea lands in the midst of mayhem when she spends a haunted Halloween fending off killers, paranormal poltergeists, ghosts, ghouls, and zombies while keeping a watchful eye on her wild teenage great-niece.

At this point these movies are for the Tyler Perry loyalists. Who seem to be like trump voters where no matter what you say or logic you point out they still stay loyal in their tastes and beliefs. The only difference is that the Tyler Perry loyalists seem to know his film’s weaknesses and can admit they aren’t necessarily good but they are at least entertained.

A scene that lasts up to 25 minutes is just general conversation and doesn’t really move things along except to have a petty conversation and reiterate points the film and characters have already made many times already. It is mainly a conversation of insults and one-upping each character 

Sometimes it seems that perry’s Films are more written around whatever point he has to make or whatever he has to say that is on his mind and reinforce mroe classic ways of love, parenting, and life with the recurring character of madea. A character who works In Films like these mroe because the plots are more cartoonish and outlandish 

The message here seems to be not to let your children run all over you and to have actual discipline with them. So that they learn to respect and boundaries 

Though when He makes more dramatic movies that center around emotional intensity and believability. Madea being Shoehorned in there does offer a release by having a character mroe there for comedic relief but the. Also distracts and take the audience away out of the rest of the movie 

Even if madea is more of a franchise cvjharacter but at this point seems loaned out and used for every type of situation and storyline 

The only time this film gets entertaining is in the third act where at least true points are finally made and truly expressed. As well as the film finally actually having some humor that is actually funny even if obvious and a bit sloppy 

The first brothers first of all lol too old and have no real Believable Appeal for the teenage girls and their characters are never believable and white actually bland and more are there for the story rather than Building any believable characters or antagonists. Even worse the originals who are supposed to be mroe comedic seem more stupid and over the top then Even if they were in a children’s movie where that is mroe generally accepted 

Grade: F

LAND OF THE LOST (2009)

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Directed by: Brad Silberling
Written By: Chris Henchy & Dennis McNicholas
Based on the television series “LAND OF THE LOST” created by: Sid Kroft & Marty Kroft
Cinematography: Dion Beebe
Editor: Peter Teschner

Cast: Will Ferrell, Anna Friel, Danny McBride, Jorma Taccone, Sierra McCormick, Bobb’E J. Thompson, Matt Lauer, Brian Huskey 

Palaeontologist Rick Marshall takes Will and Holly into a new world of danger, dinosaurs and big bug-eyed lizard people while trying to find their way back home and, too, save the universe and in doing so saving his reputation. With the dinosaur with brains, brawn and personality and the adventure of scientific advancement and exotic beasts in a far away land, it all adds up to time traveling fun and frolics.

This is truly a case of why did this movie get made it just seems like a waste of time and talent.

I remember the show not being all that good but it has it’s fans and a cult following  behind it and with Hollywood either remaking or rebooting everything in sight. It seemed like this movie was inevitable. Though films like this and SPEED RACER Seem to have a limited audience appeal. Even if recognized more than a random title. They just never seemed to have a following enough to believe these films Would be hits but by casting bigger names it hit directors and actors if the time may be the shine from their star will be all that the film needs to keep shine and get an audience. Even though they Don’t really help the film or the audience for that matter.

It seems like it is made up as it goes along while trying to stay true to the series. Which was something that seemed ridiculous. All that mattered was having a summer film filled with special effects. Even if they are limited and not that Impressive.

Whereas they try to stay true but also try to make some sense. As the material does leave itself easier served as a comedy with some science fiction thrown in.

The film is inventively filmed and the film Looks great as usual when Director Brad Silberling directs but his and the cast contributions can’t save this film. That just feels like a total waste of talent, time. 

As the film never seems to be funny at all and more like a Hodgepodge of cliches that tries to be offbeat but feels like no one is trying to har but the powers that be are left to riff on what is supposed to happen. In the scene or where the script seems to leave them With little to do at times. It seems like the actors try to make it work but feel more like they are on autopilot.

As it tries to be a more subversive psychedelic kids film with humor and material that serves maybe more to an older teenage audience but still comes off more as silly and downright dumb. So you wonder who this film is really for or supposed to appeal to. 

As even though the technology and special  effects are better and updated they still look and feel kind of corny and uninspired. Even Will Ferrell feels like he is on autopilot.

One glaring problem is that this is supposed to be an adventure tale and as big as it is built up to be there is barely any sense of wonder or exploration. So that it just feels grounded and never takes off. 

It feels like a heavily researched slot that goes on way too long and should have never been made.

It plays like a bad futurama episode.

Grade: F

THE CANNIBAL CLUB (2018)

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Written & Directed By: Guto Parente

Cinematography: Lucas Barbi

Editor: Ricardo Pretti & Luiz Pretti 

Cast: Tavinho Teixeira, Ana Luisa Rios, Pedro Domingues, Jose Maria Alves, Wallen Abreu 

Otavio and Gilda are a very wealthy couple of the Brazilian elite who have the habit of eating their employees. Otavio owns a private security company and is a notable member of The Cannibal Club. When Gilda accidentally discovers a secret from Borges, a powerful congressman and the Club’s leader, her and her husband’s lives are in danger.

This film is a contained, nasty darkly comedic thriller. That comes across more as a class struggle movie. Rather than an out and out horror.

As the cannibals in the movie are the rock and successful who feast on their fellow man for pleasure and after they fulfill the riches needs. That to certain respect leave the poor coming across fetishized as pieces of meat to be abused yet that they are always hungry for.

Wish the film was a bit bigger In Scope as it already feels like a conspiracy satire on the rich. As they feed off of the poor literally. 

Though that is a theme That stays in the background of a more singular problem in the movie for the main characters. As they soon find themselves on the outs of their group and are wondering what to do to survive. 

This is introduced after we see the way they live their lives and basically the husband is a cuckold who gets off on watching other men pleasure his wife and then at the last minute justifying his killing as revenge. As he and his wife ritually then chop up and devour their prey.

The film starts off and plays rather provocatively and try to raise the stakes little by little, never quite coming alive and never matches its own outspokenness from the opening scenes.

One wishes it could Have gone a lot further with its Premise through works great get it chooses to stay simple and introduces aspects that never quite are answered or addressed. Kind of like the first HOSTEL movie then the sequel that kind of explained the business operation. 

Ana Luiza Rios plays the wife and throughout she has many faces to showcase and play. So that she truly comes across as a true femme fatale.

The film contains more spec scenes than expected as of course it would be used to seduce their victims and leave them open to being overpowered and vulnerable.

The film does get graphic. Though it is a bit refreshing in a modern thriller to see sex and nudity that almost feels like the moral lesson of the FRIDAY THE 13TH movies. So that there is as much sex and nudity as gore. Well really still a bit more violence.

It might be wrong to call the film fun but it seems to take a certain joy and excitement in exploring others misfortunes

In the end, the film feels like a dark realistic fairy tale with no supernatural elements. Though it does feel like an extended TALES FROM THE CRYPT episode. 

GRADE: B