Movie Reviews

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 235! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey there, friends!

So, I finally watched “Ghost” for the first time. I know, I know, how did I manage to avoid this 1990 classic for so long? Life’s a mystery, right? Anyway, I grabbed some popcorn, dimmed the lights, and settled in for what turned out to be quite an experience.

First off, let’s talk plot. If you haven’t seen it, “Ghost” is this supernatural love story that somehow blends romance, thriller, and comedy all into one. We’ve got Sam (played by Patrick Swayze) and Molly (Demi Moore) who are this adorable couple. Sam’s a banker and Molly’s an artist, and they’re living the dream in their swanky New York apartment. But, just when you think they’re going to live happily ever after, bam! Sam gets murdered. I was like, “What just happened?” Talk about a plot twist.

Now, here’s where it gets really interesting. Sam becomes a ghost, but he’s not ready to move on because he’s got some unfinished business. Mainly, he wants to protect Molly from the same fate and figure out why he was killed.

Enter Whoopi Goldberg as Oda Mae Brown, a a fake psychic who suddenly finds herself actually communicating with the dearly departed Sam. Whoopi totally steals the show here. Her comedic timing is impeccable, and she brings a much-needed lightheartedness to an otherwise heavy story. Plus, her chemistry with Swayze is off the charts – they’re like a bickering odd couple from beyond the grave.

As a ghost, Sam can’t physically interact with the world, which leads to some pretty creative problem-solving. There’s this whole bit with him learning to move objects through sheer willpower, and let me tell you, watching Patrick Swayze struggle to move a penny was oddly satisfying. It’s one of those scenes that makes you think, “Man, they don’t make movies like this anymore.”

The chemistry between Swayze and Moore is palpable, even when one of them is a ghost. The iconic pottery scene? Oh my God, talk about steamy. And all to the tune of “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers. That song gets stuck in your head, but in a good way, you know? It’s such a blend of tender and sensual, it’s no wonder it’s been parodied a million times.

Now, as for the villain, Carl (Tony Goldwyn), he’s your classic best-friend-turned-bad-guy. His descent into betrayal adds this layer of suspense. Like, every time he’s on screen, you can’t help but think, “What’s this guy up to now?” It’s a bit melodramatic, but hey, it’s the ’90s. Go big or go home, right?

But we have to talk about those pottery wheel scenes. I mean, come on! The sexual tension is palpable, and “Unchained Melody” playing in the background just amps up the romance factor. It’s a classic movie moment for a reason, and I totally get the hype now.

But “Ghost” isn’t all lovey-dovey moments and witty banter. There are some genuinely creepy scenes, especially when Sam encounters the shadows that represent evil spirits. The special effects might seem a bit dated now, but they still manage to give me the chills.

One thing I wasn’t expecting was how much this movie would mix genres. One minute you’re tearing up over Sam and Molly’s love story, the next you’re laughing at Oda Mae’s antics, and then you’re on the edge of your seat during the thriller parts.

Also, shoutout to the special effects team. The scenes where Sam walks through walls or interacts with other ghosts were pretty impressive for the time. Sure, they’re a bit dated by today’s standards, but there’s a charm to that old-school movie magic.

By the end, I was fully invested. There’s something really touching about the idea of love transcending even death. When Sam says goodbye to Molly, it hits you right in the feels. I may have shed a tear or two. No shame.

So yeah, “Ghost” is a timeless classic that deserves all the praise it gets. It’s a unique blend of romance, comedy, drama, and even a little bit of horror. Plus, it’s got Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, and Whoopi Goldberg giving performances that are memorable for all the right reasons. It just works.

Until Tomorrow!
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 234! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey friends!

Okay, so I just saw “Lisa Frankenstein,” and wow! This isn’t your grandma’s Frankenstein story (although, let’s be real, grandmas are pretty cool and could probably handle some reanimated corpses).

Imagine “Heathers” meets “Edward Scissorhands,” but with a generous sprinkle of 80s nostalgia and a dash of “A Trip to the Moon” – a cinematic cocktail that’s as weird as it is wonderful. This flick is a whole lot of something—but whether that “something” is good or bad depends on your taste for the bizarre.

The whole vibe of “Lisa Frankenstein” throws you right back to the late 80s, with every frame dripping in nostalgia—from the Madonna-esque fashion to the big hair and even bigger cell phones. And let me tell you, the attention to that retro detail is like stepping into a time machine, except with way more cemetery scenes and reanimated corpses.

Our protagonist, Lisa, played by the ever-charming Kathryn Newton, is not your typical high school loner. After her mother’s tragic murder, Lisa finds herself often wandering to an abandoned cemetery (as one casually does), where she chats up a storm with a grave belonging to a handsome young dude from the mid-19th century.

Plot twist: a rogue lightning bolt strikes, and BAM! Our dashing corpse, played by Cole Sprouse, is up and about, missing a few body parts but ready to charm the socks off you. Now Lisa’s got herself a science project that would make Dr. Frankenstein proud.

This dude, who we never actually learn the name of (maybe he forgot it after being dead for so long?), is missing a few body parts. And wouldn’t you know it, Lisa has access to a tanning bed that can do a whole lot more than give you a bronze glow.

The film isn’t just a quirky tale of a girl and her zombie pal; it dives into some deeper, darker themes too. There’s a wild ride of emotions as it explores grief and mental health through a lens smeared with dark humor. There’s murder, mutilation, and even a creepy stepmother who could give Cinderella’s a run for her money (really, she’s just awful). But somehow, it’s all hilarious. Like, I found myself laughing out loud at things that probably shouldn’t be funny. Maybe I need to re-evaluate my sense of humor?

Kathryn Newton as Lisa is fantastic. She nails that awkward teen vibe while somehow making corpse-reanimation look cool. Oh, and did I mention Cole Sprouse? Yeah, Jughead himself is in this, and he’s surprisingly charming as a mute, undead dude. Who knew? Seriously, the guy doesn’t talk but still delivers one heck of an emotional punch.

Now, what’s interesting is that this movie is a wild mix of genres. It’s got horror, comedy, romance, even a dash of social commentary. And while some scenes are laugh-out-loud funny, others are just plain cringe. The tone shifts are jarring, and some of the jokes fall flat. But what the heck, IMHO that adds to the film’s charm.

But despite its flaws, “Lisa Frankenstein” is a film that’s both a tribute to and a parody of the 80s horror-comedy genre. It’s got guts, laughs, and a whole lot of heart. I had so much fun watching this.

So yeah, if you’re a fan of quirky, offbeat dark comedies and quirky romcom-horror hybrids — and you have a sick and twisted sense of humor — then this might be your jam. Just be prepared for a wild ride. It’s like a roller coaster—you’ll scream, you’ll laugh, you’ll cringe, you might even throw up a little. Just remember — I warned you.

Peace out ✌️
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 233! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey friends,

So, I finally got around to watching “2012,” that disaster flick directed by Roland Emmerich. You know, the one everyone was buzzing about back in 2009. I figured, why not? It’s like, the ultimate end-of-the-world movie. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint in delivering all the explosions, crumbling landmarks, and intense survival drama you’d expect from a disaster epic.

The movie kicks off with the discovery that the Earth’s core is heating up due to some crazy solar flares. This basically means the whole world is about to go up in flames. Enter our hero, Jackson Curtis, played by John Cusack. He’s a struggling writer (aren’t they always?) who stumbles upon the government’s top-secret plan to save humanity. What follows is an insane race against time as Jackson tries to save his family and, well, the world.

John Cusack really nails the everyman role here. He’s just trying to keep it together while everything around him falls apart, literally. He’s not some superhero saving the day; he’s just a dad trying to do right by his kids. You can’t help but root for the guy, especially when he’s doing all these daredevil stunts to stay ahead of the apocalypse. There’s one scene where he’s driving a limo through a collapsing city, and it’s so over-the-top you just have to laugh and cheer him on.

Then we’ve got the supporting cast. Amanda Peet plays Jackson’s ex-wife, Kate. She’s got that whole “strong and independent” vibe going on, but also a vulnerable side. It’s a good mix. and she brings a lot of heart to the role. Their chemistry is spot-on, especially during the more tender moments amidst the chaos.

And let’s not forget Chiwetel Ejiofor as Dr. Adrian Helmsley, the scientist who first discovers the impending doom. Ejiofor brings a sense of gravitas and urgency that really grounds the movie. Also, Woody Harrelson is in this movie as a crazy conspiracy theorist broadcasting the end times from his RV. He’s hilarious and kind of steals every scene he’s in.

Now, I’ve got to mention the special effects. Holy smokes, they went all out. I mean, the special effects are out of this world! There are so many jaw-dropping scenes of destruction. Like, California sliding into the ocean, the Yellowstone super-volcano erupting, and those giant tsunamis swallowing up everything. It’s all very dramatic and, honestly, kind of terrifying when you think about it. But, the visuals are so stunning you can’t look away. They really capture that apocalyptic vibe, you know?

One thing I found particularly interesting is the whole concept of these arks the governments built to save a select few. It’s a bit of a moral conundrum, right? Who gets to live, who doesn’t, and the whole political maneuvering around it. It’s like the movie is saying, “Hey, even at the end of the world, we’re still going to be fighting over who gets the last lifeboat.”

But hey, no movie is perfect, right? “2012” definitely has its flaws. The dialogue can be a bit cheesy at times, and some of the characters’ decisions are just plain questionable. Like, who in their right mind would drive a limo through a collapsing city? Also, the movie is over two and a half hours long! It could have been trimmed down a bit, especially since some scenes felt a little repetitive.

Okay, I know I’m rambling a bit, but I can’t help it. This movie is just one of those guilty pleasures. It’s got everything: drama, action, humor, and a dash of that human spirit stuff. Sure, it’s cheesy and the science is, well, let’s just say ‘creative.’ It’s not going to win any awards for its script or character development, but it delivers on the disaster movie front.

So, if you’re in the mood for some mindless entertainment and want to see the world go to hell in a hand-basket, give this one a watch. Just don’t expect it to be a cinematic masterpiece. And don’t blame me if you start having end-of-the-world dreams!

Catch you later,
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 232! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey friends!

Okay, so last night I was in this super nostalgic mood – you know, that “I miss things I never even experienced” type of mood. Call me corny, but I was craving a good ol’ classic movie, and I stumbled upon this gem: Somewhere in Time. It’s a flick from 1980, directed by Jeannot Szwarc. If you haven’t seen it, OMG, it’s an experience. If you have, let’s take a little stroll down memory lane, shall we?

The movie centers around Richard Collier, a playwright played by the ever-so-dreamy Christopher Reeve. Seriously, the man could rock a turtleneck like no other. Anyway, Richard stumbles upon a picture of a mysterious woman from the past – Elise McKenna, an actress from the early 1900s, played by the captivating Jane Seymour. He becomes utterly obsessed with a photograph her photograph. It’s like love at first sight, only, you know, separated by many decades.

Driven by this inexplicable pull, he manages to literally will himself back in time. I mean, imagine being so enamored by a picture that you literally hypnotize yourself into the past to be with that person. Sounds bonkers, right? But that’s precisely what happens. It’s more than just time travel; it’s about longing, destiny, and, like, pure, raw emotion.

It’s this whole whirlwind romance with a touch of the supernatural, underscored by the most achingly beautiful soundtrack ever composed by the genius John Barry.

Now, I’m a sucker for a good period piece, and “Somewhere in Time” does not disappoint. The costumes, the dialogue – it’s like taking a time machine back to a more elegant era. It definitely had me itching to dig out my grandma’s old photo albums!

So, Christopher Reeve, aka Superman, shows us this vulnerable side that’s just sooo different from his superhero alter-ego. He has this boyish charm that makes you root for him from the get-go. You know, kind of like how you suddenly become a pretend sports fan during the World Cup just because you love a good underdog story. And Jane Seymour? Oh, she’s just timeless. No pun intended. Her portrayal of Elise is as touching as it is haunting.

Speaking of sensory details, can we talk about the soundtrack? John Barry, you musical wizard! The score is so lush, so evocative, it’s practically a character on its own. It tugs at your heartstrings and drags you into the early 20th century with every note.

Now, I have to admit, there are moments where the dialogue feels a bit dated. It’s like flipping through an old photo album where every picture tells a story, even if a few shots are blurry or awkward. Besides, the setting makes up for it. The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is just drop-dead gorgeous. Fun fact: The hotel really does exist (and I’ve been there!), and it was already a historic landmark by the time they filmed there.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper time travel movie without a few hiccups, right? The ending, without giving anything away, is both heartbreaking and hopeful. It’s a reminder that some connections transcend time and space, leaving an indelible mark on our souls. Yeah, I went there.

Watching Somewhere in Time is a unique blend of comfort, melancholy, and a gentle reminder of the past. There’s something so raw about the way the film handles love and loss. It’s not all Hollywood fluff; there’s depth and grit beneath the saccharine surface.

What really hit me is that sense of yearning. It’s not just about lovers separated by time; it’s about the universal desire to transcend our current reality, to find something – or someone – that makes us feel truly alive. Maybe that’s why this movie still resonates, despite its old-school vibes. Regardless, Somewhere in Time is a film that successfully pulled at my heartstrings.

Peace Out, ✌️
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 231! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey friends!

So, I finally got around to watching “Heart and Souls,” a gem from 1993 directed by Ron Underwood, and, oh boy, am I glad I did! Picture this: it’s a rainy day, I’m flipping through my to-watch queue, and there it is. I’ve heard bits and pieces about it, but never actually saw it until now. And can we talk about Robert Downy Jr.? Absolutely phenomenal in this!

The movie kicks off with a bus accident in 1959 San Francisco that intertwines the fate of four souls with a newborn baby, Thomas Reilly (played by Downey Jr.). These souls become sort of accidental guardian angels to him, invisible to everyone but Thomas. The setup is as quirky as it sounds, and it only gets better. Imagine growing up with four invisible friends who teach you life lessons, sing with you (the rendition of “Walk Like a Man” is hilariously adorable), and then—poof!—disappear when you need them most. Yep, at the ripe age of seven, Thomas is left to navigate the world solo because…well….I can’t tell you because no spoilers, right?

Flash forward to Thomas as a grown-up—a cutthroat businessman with a skewed moral compass. It’s classic Downey Jr., mixing charm with a hint of chaos. The return of his old ghost pals throws him for a loop. They’ve got unfinished business, and guess who’s roped into helping them? That’s right, our guy Thomas. Each ghost’s story tugs at different heartstrings. There’s Harrison, the would-be singer; Penny, the loving mother; Julia, the heartbroken cocktail waitress; and Milo, the thief with a golden heart. Their antics to resolve their unfinished issues through Thomas are as touching as they are funny.

What I loved about this flick is its heart. Yes, it’s a comedy about ghosts and a guy who talks to himself a lot, but it’s also about redemption, connection, and finding closure. It’s a movie that doesn’t just aim for laughs but also packs an emotional punch that hits just right.

Now, I’m not gonna lie, there are a few plot points that might seem a little far-fetched, but who cares? It’s a movie about ghosts, after all! Just suspend your disbelief and enjoy the ride.

So yeah, “Heart and Souls” is a delightful adventure with a supernatural twist that’s definitely worth a watch, especially if you’re in the mood for something light yet meaningful. Robert Downey Jr. nails it, the ghosts will have you giggling and maybe even tearing up a bit, and the ending is the sweet kind of satisfying. So, if you haven’t already, give it a go, you won’t regret it!

TTNF, 👋
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 230! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey Friends!

So, I finally sat down to watch the 1957 classic “Witness for the Prosecution” directed by the legendary Billy Wilder, and let me tell you, I was absolutely blown away! This was my first time diving into the black-and-white world of this courtroom drama, and after seeing the 2017 version a while back, I gotta say, the original totally knocked it out of the park!

The plot? It’s a twister that keeps you on the edge of your seat (and no, I’m not just throwing that around lightly). It centers around a wily old barrister, Sir Wilfrid Robarts, played by the one and only Charles Laughton, who, despite his health issues, decides to take on a seemingly straightforward case. This case involves Leonard Vole, accused of murdering a wealthy widow, and man, does it spiral into something wild!

Charles Laughton’s performance is nothing short of brilliant! He embodies the curmudgeonly, yet sharp-witted lawyer with such gusto, it’s as if the role was written just for him. He maneuvers through the twists and turns of the case with a sly grin and a twinkle in his eye. And Marlene Dietrich as the enigmatic wife of the accused? She was stellar, delivering a performance that was both icy and fiery at the same time.

But what truly sets this film apart is its ability to keep you on the edge of your seat. Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, another revelation comes along and throws everything into disarray. It’s like a puzzle box – every piece fits perfectly, but the final picture is always one step ahead of you.

But here’s the kicker—there’s a twist in this movie that I did not see coming. Without spoiling anything, let’s just say it involves some jaw-dropping courtroom theatrics and a revelation that turns the whole story on its head. The way Billy Wilder directs this scene is pure movie magic, folks!

Now, as for the atmosphere of the film, the setting in those courtroom scenes is just so tangibly tense, you could almost smell the dusty law books and feel the weight of the silence as the jury hangs on every word. The dialogue is razor-sharp, with each line peeling back layers of character and plot like an onion.

Comparing it to the 2017 version, the original just has this timeless grip, you know? The newer one wasn’t bad per se, but it lacked the raw intensity and the clever pacing of Wilder’s masterpiece. It’s like comparing a fine wine to grape juice – both derived from grapes, but the older one has that extra oomph. Watching the 1957 version was like stepping into a time machine and getting a front-row seat to cinematic history being made.

And here’s a fun fact for you: Did you know that “Witness for the Prosecution” received six Oscar nominations including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Laughton? It didn’t win any, but man, was it deserving. It just goes to show how a well-crafted story and powerhouse performances can resonate through decades.

And the ending is a real humdinger! I won’t spoil it for you, but I will say this: it’s one of the most satisfying conclusions I’ve ever seen in a courtroom drama. It’s like that moment when you finally find the matching sock – a sense of relief, triumph, and a little bit of disbelief.

If you’re looking for a film that’ll keep you entertained, engaged, and guessing right until the very end, then “Witness for the Prosecution” is the one for you. It’s a true classic, a masterpiece of storytelling, and a testament to the power of cinema.

Catch you on the flip side 👋
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 229! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey friends!

So, I finally got around to watching “Time after Time” (1979), and oh boy, what a trip! For those who haven’t seen it yet, it’s a delightful sci-fi adventure where H.G. Wells (yes, the H.G. Wells) chases Jack the Ripper through his own time machine to modern-day San Francisco.

Now, let’s talk about the plot because Nicholas Meyer really spun up something clever here. The movie kicks off with H.G. Wells (played by Malcolm McDowell) showing off his new invention to his Victorian pals—a time machine! The twist? One of his friends, Dr. John Stevenson (hello, David Warner), turns out to be none other than Jack the Ripper. When the police come knocking, Stevenson jumps into the time machine and zips off to 1979, with Wells in hot pursuit, determined to stop the Ripper from continuing his murderous spree.

Landing in San Francisco during the ’70s adds another layer of comedy and chaos. Wells, the utopian socialist, navigating the capitalist modern world is like watching a fish bicycle—totally out of water but somehow making it work. There are some hilariously awkward fish-out-of-water moments as Wells tries to navigate the 20th century, and a few surprisingly tense chase scenes through the streets of San Francisco.

McDowell nails that mix of Victorian gentlemanly charm and scientific curiosity. But what really caught my eye was David Warner as Jack the Ripper. He’s not just some mustache-twirling villain; he’s got this unsettling charisma that makes him oddly captivating. Seriously, I couldn’t take my eyes off him even when he was being a total creep.

And speaking of creeps, the special effects are…well, let’s just say they haven’t aged as well as the actors. You know when you dive into an older film, you’re kind of signing up for some dated effects, but boy oh boy, did those special effects give me a chuckle. The time travel scenes are sooooo gloriously cheesy — it’s like a time capsule back to the era of disco balls and platform shoes. But honestly, that’s part of the charm, right?

Then there’s Mary Steenburgen, who plays Amy Robbins, a bank employee. The chemistry between her and McDowell is unexpectedly sweet. It’s one of those romances that just sneak up on you. One minute they’re all business, and the next, you’re buying into this bizarre but endearing love story across time.

The dynamic between Wells and Stevenson as they cat and mouse through the ’70s is packed with tension. This is what really makes the film tick — the dynamic between Wells and Jack. It’s a battle of wits between two brilliant minds from a different era. Plus, the film explores some interesting themes about the nature of good and evil, and whether it’s possible to escape your past.

It’s fascinating to see how each uses their knowledge of the future or lack thereof to their advantage. Stevenson adapts to the violent, less scrupulous modern world like he was born for it, which is both chilling and captivating. Meanwhile, Wells is all moral dilemmas and wide-eyed horror, which plays off brilliantly against Stevenson’s cold pragmatism.

But beyond the chases and the laughs, what I really dug was how the film tackled some pretty deep themes. It’s all about ideals versus reality, the old world versus the new, and how time changes perspectives. Like, think about it—Walmart wouldn’t exist for about another decade from when Wells lands, and he’s already baffled by everything!

So yeah, if you’re looking for a fun, quirky sci-fi adventure with a healthy dose of nostalgia, “Time after Time” might be your jam. Just don’t expect the special effects to blow you away and be prepared to roll your eyes a little. But hey, who needs fancy CGI when you’ve got witty dialogue, charming characters, and a well crafted story? The ‘budget’ effects add to the vintage charm of the whole adventure.

Roger and out!👋

Roger