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 214! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey there, friends!

Last night, I dipped my toes into the golden era of cinema to watch a true classic – “Goldfinger”! I’m talking about a journey back to 1964, when secret agents were suave, villains were diabolical, and gold was the name of the game!

Directed by the one and only Guy Hamilton, “Goldfinger” is the third installment in the James Bond franchise, and let me tell you, it’s a real gem 💎 – pun totally intended! From the iconic opening sequence featuring Shirley Bassey’s unforgettable rendition of the theme song to the pulse-pounding action that follows, this film has it all! Now, I’m no film critic, but I do know a good time when I see one. And “Goldfinger” is definitely a good time, albeit a bit dated.

So picture this: you’ve got the dashing and debonair Sean Connery stepping back into the role of everyone’s favorite secret agent, James Bond. Bond finds himself embroiled in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse with the notorious Auric Goldfinger, played to perfection by Gert Fröbe. And let me just say, Fröbe absolutely steals the show as the suave yet sinister villain with a penchant for all things gold. Talk about setting the gold standard for Bond baddies!

Bond’s mission? To thwart Goldfinger’s (a gold-obsessed madman) audacious plan to irradiate the gold reserves at Fort Knox, thus sending the global economy into chaos and making Goldfinger the richest man in the world. Sure, Goldfinger’s scheme is pretty outlandish: contaminate the gold supply at Fort Knox! But hey, it’s a Bond film, so we’re allowed a little creative license, right? It’s a race against time as Bond navigates a web of intrigue, danger, and, of course, a few seductive encounters along the way (Bond is quite the hound dog, by the way).

Speaking of encounters, let’s talk about the leading ladies of “Goldfinger.” Honor Blackman shines as the iconic and unforgettable Pussy Galore, a femme fatale with a heart of gold (pun totally intended, again!). Their chemistry sizzles on screen, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already electrifying film. And let’s not forget about the iconic Bond gadgets which are always a delight.

Speaking of Pussy Galore, can we talk about those names? They’re so ridiculously Bond, I can’t help but chuckle. But hey, they’re part of the charm. 😉

The action sequences in “Goldfinger” are top-notch for the time, with thrilling car chases, fistfights, and even a laser beam! (Yes, a laser beam!) One standout moment? That epic showdown at Fort Knox, where Bond faces off against Goldfinger’s henchmen in a nail-biting climax that’ll leave you on the edge of your seat. It’s classic Bond at its finest, folks – you won’t want to miss it!

But let’s be real, “Goldfinger” isn’t without its flaws. The pacing can be a bit slow at times, and some of the dialogue feels cheesy by today’s standards. And as much as I love Sean Connery’s Bond, he can be a bit of a cad at times. (But hey, it was the 60s!)

So yeah, whether you’re a die-hard Bond fan or just in the mood for a retro movie night, this film is sure to dazzle and delight. “Goldfinger” is a fun, campy, and nostalgic ride that’s sure to entertain fans of the Bond franchise. It’s a classic for a reason, even if some of its elements haven’t aged as gracefully as others. So grab some popcorn, kick back, and prepare to be shaken, not stirred!

Catch you later, alligators!
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 214! 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 just finished watching this movie called “Down Low” and boy oh boy, what a trip! It’s like a dark comedy but also a thriller, with a sprinkle of drama. I feel like I need to sit down and process what just happened. Picture this: you think you’re getting into a quirky drama about a closeted guy finding himself, and then BOOM – chaos, bodies, necrophilia and crack cocaine. Like, what just happened?!

The story is wild! It starts with Gary (Zachary Quinto), a closeted dad who just got divorced. Gary decides to hire Cameron, a masseur/sex worker played by the charming Lukas Gage. Things get awkward fast, but it turns out Gary’s never been with a man. So, Cameron, being the adventurous soul he is, decides to help Gary “explore” his sexuality. 🌈 But it doesn’t go as planned, not even a little bit.

Long story short, a night of “exploration” turns into a bloody mess with a dead body in the driveway. Yeah, you heard that right. A DEAD BODY. The scenes of Gary and Cameron arguing about what to do with the body are oddly hilarious and stressful at the same time. Cameron storms off but, of course, he returns. Their chaotic partnership is something you can’t look away from.

Just when you think it can’t get weirder, Gary’s nosy Ambien-loving neighbor, Sandy (Judith Light), shows up. Judith Light is such a gem – she nails the nosy neighbor vibe perfectly. Gary and Cameron manage to distract her for a while, but she eventually spots the body. Things go from bad to worse as Sandy ends up locked in a closet. Talk about a plot twist!

The movie’s got some seriously dark humor, and the actors are fantastic. Zachary Quinto, as Gary, is the perfect blend of awkward and vulnerable. Lukas Gage, as Cameron, is a chaotic ball of energy, and Judith Light, as Gary’s neighbor, steals every scene she’s in.

The film’s chaotic energy might remind you of some lesser-known dark comedies that push boundaries. It’s like if “Weekend at Bernie’s” went off its meds and decided to tackle serious themes like self-acceptance and mortality.

But it’s not all fun and games. The movie delves into some pretty deep stuff about repressed desires, societal expectations, and the consequences of living a lie. It’s a lot to unpack, but it’s worth it.

In the end, “Down Low” is a wild, unpredictable ride that is way, way over the top. It’s super silly, irreverent, unbelievable but, in my humble opinion, wildly entertaining. It’s definitely not for everyone (many would consider it “in horrifyingly poor taste”), but if you like dark comedies with a twist, you just might dig it.

So, yeah, “Down Low” is definitely an oddball movie that sticks with you. If you give it a watch, be prepared for some serious craziness. It’s a wild, weird, and wonderful ride. Bonkers, really.

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 213! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey there friends!

Let me take you on a nostalgic trip with “Kim’s Video,” a documentary that feels like a love letter to anyone who has ever lost themselves in the aisles of a video rental store. I mean, do you remember the sheer joy of wandering around, picking up random VHS tapes or DVDs, and discovering hidden gems? Well, this film captures that vibe perfectly.

“Kim’s Video” follows the story of the legendary New York City video rental store of the same name. At its peak, Kim’s Video was like the Mecca for cinephiles, with its extensive and eclectic collection of movies. We’re talking about rare foreign films, obscure indie flicks, and cult classics that you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. It was the place to be if you were serious about your movie watching.

The documentary kicks off by introducing us to the charismatic and slightly enigmatic Mr. Youngman Kim, the mastermind behind the store. He started it all with a small electronics shop that slowly morphed into a full-blown video rental empire. Mr. Kim’s passion for movies is infectious, and you can’t help but admire his dedication to curating such an incredible collection.

The heart of the story begins when Kim’s Video, like so many other rental stores, faces the inevitable decline brought about by the rise of digital streaming. Cue the sad violin music. 😢 It’s like watching your favorite childhood playground being torn down. But here’s where things get interesting. Instead of just fading into obscurity, Mr. Kim decides to do something extraordinary with his collection.

In a twist that feels straight out of a movie itself, Kim’s Video collection of 55,000 movies is donated to the small town of Salemi in Sicily, Italy. Yep, you heard that right. Thousands of miles away, in a picturesque but somewhat dilapidated town, the entire collection finds a new home. The idea was to create a cultural hub that would rejuvenate the town and keep the spirit of Kim’s Video alive. It’s like shipping a piece of New York’s indie film scene to the Italian countryside.

The documentary then shifts to follow the journey of these tapes and DVDs to Salemi. And let me tell you, it’s quite the ride. There’s a mix of excitement and melancholy as the collection is packed up and shipped off. The filmmakers do a fantastic job of capturing the emotions of long-time patrons and employees who are seeing an era end. It’s touching and, at times, heart-wrenching.

But here’s where things get interesting. The collection was supposed to be a cultural exchange, a way to bring new life to the struggling town. But when the tapes arrived in Salemi, they were stored in a warehouse and forgotten. Ten years later, a group of filmmakers and Kim’s Video fans discovered the collection and embarked on a quest to bring it back to life.

What I love about “Kim’s Video” is how it beautifully balances nostalgia with a forward-looking optimism. It’s not just about mourning the past but also about celebrating the possibilities of the future. The film is peppered with interviews from former customers, employees, and film critics, all of whom share their fondest memories of Kim’s Video. These anecdotes add a personal touch that makes you feel like you’re part of this quirky, passionate community.

The documentary also serves as a poignant reminder of the physicality of media. There’s something uniquely tactile about holding a DVD or VHS tape, a sense of ownership and connection that’s often lost in the digital age. It’s like comparing reading a paperback to scrolling through an e-book. There’s just something special about the former.

“Kim’s Video” isn’t just a film for movie geeks (though if you are one, you’ll love it even more). It’s also a reminder of the power of film to connect people, inspire creativity, and preserve our cultural heritage. But most importantly, it’s a celebration of the love of movies.

So yeah, if you’re looking for a film that’s off the beaten path, I highly recommend checking out “Kim’s Video.” It’s a quirky, funny, and surprisingly moving documentary that will leave you feeling nostalgic for the days of video stores and VHS tapes. And who knows, it might just inspire you to dust off those old VHS tapes and take a trip to your own personal archive of cinematic treasures. 📽️

Peace Out ✌️
Roger

Hey there, friends!

So, last night’s movie du jour was “Eternal Summer” (2006), a Taiwanese drama that’s more bittersweet than sunshine-and-rainbows. This one’s got some serious emotional depth and it’s definitely not a light, summer movie.

It’s a Taiwanese drama that explores the tangled lives of three high school students – Jonathan, Shane, and Carrie. The story kicks off with Jonathan and Shane being best buds since forever. Shane is that classic bad boy with a heart of gold (think James Dean vibes, but with more angst), while Jonathan is the responsible, quiet type who seems to be everyone’s rock. They balance each other out in this perfectly imperfect way. Enter Carrie, the new girl who’s all artsy and full of life. She shakes things up and becomes this third wheel that neither of the boys knew they needed.

What’s fascinating about this movie is how it tackles the theme of unrequited love and identity. You know, those feelings you had in high school that felt like the end of the world? Yep, all that messy, beautiful stuff. Shane is super popular with the ladies but doesn’t really connect with anyone except Jonathan.

Meanwhile, Jonathan’s harboring a secret, super intense crush on Shane, which complicates things like a cat deciding to nap on your keyboard just as you’re about to hit “send” on an important email. Carrie, on the other hand, falls for Shane too, but she senses that Jonathan’s feelings for Shane go beyond friendship.

The actors, oh my gosh. Joseph Chang plays Shane, and he’s just spot-on with the whole troubled yet charming act. Bryant Chang, who plays Jonathan, gives such a nuanced performance that you can almost feel his internal struggle. And Kate Yeung as Carrie is like this breath of fresh air – she’s vibrant and brings this lightness to the heavier moments of the film.

“Eternal Summer” was one of the first mainstream Taiwanese films to tackle same-sex love so explicitly, and it does so with a delicate touch. It’s not preachy or sensationalized; instead, it’s a nuanced exploration of love, longing, and the complexities of human relationships. ❤️

It’s also worth mentioning that the film’s cinematography is stunning. The lush landscapes of the coastal town serve as a beautiful backdrop to the emotional turmoil of the characters. The soundtrack is equally impressive, with a mix of melancholic tunes and upbeat pop songs that perfectly capture the mood of each scene.

One thing’s for sure: this movie isn’t afraid to delve into the messy realities of life. It’s not all sunshine and roses, but that’s what makes it so compelling. It’s a reminder that love can be messy, complicated, and sometimes even painful. But it’s also a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the importance of staying true to yourself.

So, if you’re in the mood for a movie that’s equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking (well, actually….it was more heartbreaking than heartwarming), give “Eternal Summer” a watch. Just keep some tissues handy – you might need them.

Cheers!

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 211! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey friends!

So, last night I checked out the 2022 film “Next Exit” directed by Mali Elfman. I went into this movie expecting a full-blown sci-fi adventure, but boy, was I in for a surprise. Instead, what I got was a deeply character-driven drama that pulled me in a totally different direction.

The premise of “Next Exit” is super intriguing. Imagine a world where scientific proof of the afterlife exists, thanks to a breakthrough by Dr. Stevens, played by Karen Gillan. People now have the option to end their lives painlessly and transition to the afterlife. Sounds like a wild sci-fi ride, right? Well, not quite. The film focuses more on the human side of this concept, diving into the lives of two main characters, Teddy (Rahul Kohli) and Rose (Katie Parker), who decide to take this final journey together.

Teddy and Rose are total strangers, each with their own reasons for wanting to check out early. They end up carpooling across the country to reach the Life Beyond Institute, where they plan to end their lives. Sounds pretty dark, but stay with me. As they travel, we get to know these characters on a deeper level. Teddy is this charming, sarcastic guy who’s dealing with a lot of guilt and regret. Rahul Kohli brings such warmth and depth to his character; you can’t help but root for him.

Rose, on the other hand, is tough and guarded, with a painful past that she’s trying to escape. Katie Parker does an incredible job portraying Rose’s vulnerability and strength. The chemistry between these two actors is fantastic, and their interactions range from funny to heartbreaking. Watching their relationship evolve over the course of the movie was like peeling back layers of an onion—lots of tears, but worth it.

One of the things I loved about “Next Exit” is how it balances the heavy themes with moments of genuine humor and humanity. The road trip setting allows for some quirky encounters and heartfelt conversations that really flesh out the characters.

The film’s pacing is pretty deliberate, so if you’re looking for action-packed sequences, you might be disappointed. But honestly, the slow, reflective pace works here. It gives you time to really connect with Teddy and Rose and understand their struggles. Plus, the cinematography is gorgeous. The wide shots of the American landscape add this poignant sense of journey and transition.

Now, I have to admit, this movie wasn’t quite what I thought it’d be. I went in expecting more sci-fi elements, but what I got was a deeply emotional, character-driven drama. And you know what? I didn’t mind at all. It’s like expecting a rollercoaster and getting a scenic train ride instead. Different, but still pretty great.

So, if you’re in the mood for a film that makes you think and feel, “Next Exit” might just be your ticket. It’s not a traditional sci-fi flick, but it’s a beautiful exploration of life, death, and everything in between.

Catch you 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 210! 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 “Take Shelter” (2011), that movie everyone’s been talking about for, like, forever. It’s directed by Jeff Nichols, who also did “Mud” and “Loving,” so I had pretty high hopes. And, well, it was a bit of a mixed bag, to be honest.

First off, let me just say that this movie is a total slow burn. And when I say slow, I mean s-l-o-w. We’re talking molasses in January slow. But don’t get me wrong, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a bad thing. It’s just… well, let’s just say you need a lot of patience to appreciate it. 🐌

The plot revolves around Curtis (played by Michael Shannon), who’s this construction worker living in Ohio with his wife, Samantha (Jessica Chastain), and their deaf daughter, Hannah. Curtis starts having these super intense, apocalyptic dreams 🌩️🌪️🐕‍🦺.

Now, these dreams are seriously vivid and creepy. They involve storm clouds, oily rain, tornadoes, and some pretty gnarly hallucinations such as like birds falling out of the sky. Curtis becomes convinced that these dreams are a premonition of a coming disaster.

And here’s where the tension starts to build. Curtis decides to take matters into his own hands and begins building a storm shelter in his backyard. You know, just in case. Now, this is where things get interesting. Curtis’s obsession with the shelter starts to consume him. He’s spending all his time and money on it, neglecting his family and job. His behavior becomes increasingly erratic, and people start to think he’s losing it. Even Samantha starts to doubt his sanity.

Michael Shannon does an incredible job portraying Curtis’s descent into obsession and paranoia. You can feel the weight of his fear and uncertainty in every scene. He totally embodies Curtis’s descent into madness. He’s brooding, intense, and utterly convincing. And Jessica Chastain, as always, delivers a stellar performance as the supportive yet concerned wife. Her character, Samantha, tries to hold everything together while grappling with her own doubts about Curtis’s sanity.

One of the things I loved about “Take Shelter” is how it blurs the line between reality and delusion. You’re constantly left wondering if Curtis is actually predicting the future or if he’s just succumbing to mental illness. And let me tell you, the suspense is real. There are moments where you’re just sitting there, biting your nails, waiting for something to happen. This ambiguity is what keeps you hooked, even though the pacing is, well, glacial.

“Take Shelter” is beautifully shot, with stunning cinematography that captures the ominous beauty of storm clouds rolling in over the Ohio landscape. The soundtrack is haunting, adding to the overall sense of unease. But, and I can’t stress this enough, you need to be ready for a slow, meticulous build-up. It’s not a fast-paced thriller by any means. It’s more like a simmering pot that takes forever to come to a boil.

Now, I gotta be honest. When the climax finally hits, it’s… well, it’s something. The ending is ambiguous, to say the least. Some might find it satisfying, while others might feel a bit cheated after such a long wait. Personally, I’m still on the fence. I mean, was the slight payoff worth the hours of tension? I’m not so sure. 🤷‍♂️

Though the performances are incredible, the pacing is a major drawback. But if you’re into character-driven dramas with a psychological twist, “Take Shelter” might be right up your alley. Just be prepared for a slow journey. And maybe have some snacks on hand to keep you company.

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 209! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hi friends!

I just finished watching “Turtles All the Way Down,” directed by the super talented Hannah Marks, and let me tell you, it’s a trip worth taking. First off, this movie is based on John Green’s novel of the same name, which I absolutely adored, so you can imagine me sitting there with my popcorn, super hyped.

Now, if you haven’t heard about this movie, let me paint you a picture without giving too much away. The story orbits around Aza Holmes, a high school girl struggling with OCD and anxiety who’s trying to lead an ordinary life despite her spiraling thoughts that just won’t quit. This isn’t a typical teen drama, but rather an exploration into the intricacies of her mind, which, let me tell you, is both enlightening and heart-wrenching.

Aza, played by the amazing Isabela Merced, seriously brought her A-game. She captures every nuance of Aza’s internal struggles with such precision, it’s like she’s living it. Her depiction is raw and real—she gets under your skin in the best possible way. She brings such a raw, genuine portrayal to the character that I felt every bit of Aza’s spiraling thoughts and her intense fear of the human microbiome (germs, basically). There’s this one scene where she’s looking at a wound on her finger, and you can just feel the overwhelming panic setting in. It’s palpable, and it’s unsettling. Totally drew me in.

Now, her life takes a wild turn when a billionaire goes missing, and there’s a hefty reward for any info. Aza and her fearless best friend Daisy (brought to life by the quirky Cree Cicchino), decide to turn detectives, and that’s where things get interesting.

The plot thickens when Aza reconnects with the missing billionaire’s son, Davis, played by the charming Felix Mallard. Cue the emotional tornado. Davis is this enigmatic billionaire’s son who’s dealing with his own mess of problems, including his dad’s mysterious disappearance. The chemistry between Merced and Mallard is amazing! Their relationship unfolds with such a delicate, bittersweet tension that you’re rooting for them, despite knowing the love might be too much for Aza to handle.

What really makes the film stand out is how it doesn’t shy away from the messy, often painful inner battles of mental illness. It’s not just about the romance or the mystery; it’s Aza’s internal struggle that’s the real heartbeat of the film. And boy, does it thump loudly!

Director Hannah Marks has a knack for getting right into the thick of teenage angst and the chaos of dealing with mental health issues, all while keeping the film aesthetically pleasing and tight. The visuals? Stunning. Every frame feels like a window into Aza’s soul, especially those close-ups that capture the chaos brewing beneath her calm exterior.

One of my favorite scenes – and no spoilers here – is this beautifully shot sequence at Davis’ observatory. It’s just Aza and Davis, with the stars lighting up the sky around them, and for a moment, her spiraling thoughts seem to pause. It’s quiet, intimate, and you can almost hear the crackle of the tension between them. It’s scenes like this that make you forget you’re watching a film.

So yeah, “Turtles All the Way Down” is a compelling dive into the complexities of the human mind, wrapped up in a mystery that keeps you hooked till the last frame. If you’re into films that make you think and feel all the feels, this is your ticket. Hannah Marks has really knocked it out of the park with this one.

TTFN,
Roger