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

Hey Friends!

Okay, today we’re talking about “In the Shadow of the Moon,” this 2019 film that seriously had me tripping more than once. Directed by Jim Mickle, it’s kind of like if “True Detective” and “Back to the Future” had a baby, then that baby wandered into a sci-fi horror convention. Wild right?

So, picture this: you start off in 1988 with a homicide cop named Thomas Lockhart (Boyd Holbrook) who’s dealing with a bizarre case. People are dropping dead in Philly with injuries that make zero sense. Like, Mystery Incorporated, bring out the magnifying glasses and Scooby Snacks, folks.

Boyd Holbrook, interestingly enough, kind of has that rugged charm, you know? The whole, “I’m-too-troubled-by-dark-secrets-but-also-stunningly-handsome” vibe. I remember seeing him in “Narcos” and thinking, “This dude’s got that whole hard-boiled detective thing down pat.” Also, Michael C. Hall—yes, good old Dexter shows up! He plays Holbrook’s brother-in-law, Maddox, and gets to rock one hell of a retro mustache. Just seeing him, I half-expected him to whip out a scalpel and a roll of plastic wrap. But, no, this time it’s legit police procedural stuff. Phew.

So the plot thickens when Lockhart’s trying to wrap his head around a criminal who seems to be operating outside the boundaries of normal time. Hold the phone, right? You discover that this mystery woman, played by Cleopatra Coleman, appears every 9 years and leaves a trail of chaos. And can I just say, Cleopatra Coleman’s performance? She brought this mix of intensity and elegance that makes her character super compelling.

Fast-forward from ’88 to ’97, and you see Lockhart’s life falling apart. Dude’s obsessed! He’s got walls covered in Polaroids, red string, and a terrifying lack of sleep. By 2006, he looks like he’s permanently two weeks from retirement but still too wired to quit. The chase envelopes decades, and you can feel the weight of obsession clouding his every judgment. Like, take a nap, man. Please?

The movie’s pretty nifty with its time-hopping shenanigans, though. At first, you’re like: “Wait, isn’t this supposed to be a murder mystery?” And then there’s a sci-fi twist that’ll have your brain doing 180s. How they twist narrative timelines together—it’s almost poetic.

And visuals? You can’t talk about this movie without mentioning the aesthetic. It’s got this neo-noir vibe—dark, moody, with splashes of neon against grim Philly streets. Sometimes you feel like you’re walking through a fever dream. The soundtrack too, befits the eerie, brooding atmosphere Mickle’s going for. It’s like if synthwave and noir jazz had a lovechild.

Honestly, the film’s deeper theme is what’s killer (pun intended). It dives into the morality of taking lives to prevent future deaths—a debate as old as time travel narratives themselves. What kind of puzzle pieces do you leave behind, and what becomes of your sense of self when you’ve sacrificed everything for what you believe to be righteous?

It’s not perfect, though. Some parts had me like, “Um, plot logic? Catch you later?” But hey, it’s a movie—gotta roll with the punches, right? The acting caliber kept me hooked, even when pacing got a bit bumpy. And nothing beats a film that leaves you mentally chewing on it for days. It’s like that weird candy you didn’t think you’d like but ends up being strangely addictive.

So, if you’re up for a head-scratcher that’s part crime thriller, part sci-fi puzzle box, give “In the Shadow of the Moon” a whirl — and let yourself get lost in the mayhem of time loops, existential dread, and lunar lore.

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 279! 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 watched “Leave the World Behind,” and I gotta say… I have some thoughtsss. It felt like one of those times you’re super pumped for a party, and the vibe’s lit, but then, like, it suddenly turns into a BYOB event, and you’re left with your sad, lonely can of soda. Okay, weird analogy, I know, but stick with me!

First off, shoutout to Sam Esmail, the dude behind the camera, who also did “Mr. Robot.” That show? Freaking genius. Now, the movie had me SO hooked at the beginning. The tension? OH, YOU COULD TASTE IT. Imagine dipping your fries into that suspense sauce, and it’s like, Grade-A stuff.

Starring the always-amazing Julia Roberts and the ever-so-charismatic Ethan Hawke, “Leave the World Behind” throws us into the lives of two families whose peaceful vacation takes a dark turn. Outta the blue, a blackout hits the city taking down cell service, electricity, phones and navigation systems — and chaos is bubbling under the surface. Hype? Check. Mysterious events, strange, ear-splitting noises, unexplained power outages – it all starts off like a classic thriller, with that eerie feeling of something sinister lurking just beneath the surface.

And then – BAM! two these strangers appear at their vacation rental doorstep. Enter G.H. (Mahershala Ali – YES, him from “Moonlight”) and his daughter, Ruth (Myha’la), claiming the house is theirs. What would you do? I’d probably pee my pants!

The film does a fantastic job building tension in the first half. I mean, I was on the edge of my seat, clutching my blanket, and wondering what was going to happen next. Roberts and Hawke are brilliant, as always, delivering nuanced performances that capture the fear and uncertainty of their characters. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, making their interactions both captivating and believable.

I’ve got to say, folks, the acting is pretty on point. Roberts nails that mix of distrust and obligatory politeness. Hawke, meanwhile, has this under-the-surface tension that’s like, “Oooh, something’s about to blow!” And Mahershala Ali? He’s always mesmerizing, like watching a cat stalking a laser pointer.

But then—wait for it—the movie just kinda… stops. It’s like it was building up to a grand finale and then just… gave up. I’m talking, the buildup is there – you’re white-knuckling your popcorn – and suddenly, the movie forgets how to movie. Don’t you just hate that? We’re left dangling, and not in a cool cliffhanger way. More like someone hit pause and forgot to ever hit play again.

Like, the film spends AGES building atmospheric stress, leaning hard into the mystery. Everyone’s on edge, getting super paranoid. The forest around them is unnervingly quiet, and the unease is so thick you could spread it on toast. You’re waiting for the reveal, the “OH SNAP!” moment. But it never goes anywhere. Honestly, it’s that classic “so close, yet so far” situation. There’s no real resolution, no satisfying explanation for the strange events. It’s as if the filmmakers got lost in their own suspenseful maze and couldn’t find the exit.

One of the most frustrating things about “Leave the World Behind” is that it raises so many questions but answers none of them. What caused the strange events? Who (or what) was responsible? And what happened to the characters in the end? We’re left hanging, with a sense of unfulfillment that’s hard to shake.

I was genuinely disappointed in this one. Kinda like expecting fireworks and getting sparklers. Dude, give us the big BOOM!

So yeah, “Leave the World Behind” had the bones of a great thriller but just didn’t know what to do with them. A+ for atmosphere and acting, but man, it left me bobbing like a cork in the ocean of unfinished plots.Ultimately, this film falls short of its potential. It’s like a puzzle with missing pieces, a story with no ending.

But if you’re a fan of psychological thrillers and don’t mind an ambiguous ending, then give it a spin. Maybe you’ll find hidden depths I missed, or maybe you’ll join me in the “whyyy did it end there?” club.

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

So, I finally got around to watching the new “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” and let me tell you, it was quite the spectral spectacular! First things first, this movie was like a love letter to fans of the original films, which I definitely am.

Gil Kenan, the director, really nailed the whole Ghostbusters vibe – the humor, the action, and the nostalgia were all there in spades. But don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t just a rehash of the old stuff. There was a new plotline that involved an ancient artifact and a whole new dimension of ghosts. It was like they were trying to go bigger and bolder than before, and for the most part, it worked.

So, where do we even start? Imagine New York City but instead of sweaty cab rides and hot dog stands, everything is freaking frozen! Yep, you heard that right. NYC is like one giant popsicle, and not the kind you want to lick. The city is encased in ice, and lurking somewhere in that icy labyrinth are—you guessed it—ghosts galore. Oh, and I did mention there’s an evil world-eating god that has been set loose?

Now, let’s talk about the Spengler family – the descendants of Egon Spengler. They were like the heart and soul of this movie. You had Phoebe, the science whiz who was basically a mini-Egon, and her brother Trevor, who was more of the action-oriented type. They were such a fun duo to watch, and their sibling dynamic was so relatable. Plus, the fact that they were trying to live up to their grandfather’s legacy added an extra layer of depth to their characters.

Anyway, back to the movie. The special effects were absolutely amazing! The ghosts looked so realistic, and the proton streams were just as awesome as I remembered. Plus, the action sequences were super intense and had me on the edge of my seat. And let’s not forget the humor! There were so many laugh-out-loud moments, especially with Podcast, the character played by Logan Kim. He was like the comedic relief of the movie, and he totally stole the show for me.

Oh, and the soundtrack! It’s like an icy blast from the past with a modern twist. It’s electric and feels like it could literally make you get up and dance. You’ll recognize a few remixed classic hits that are just perfect for a high-stakes ghost chase.

Speaking of blasts from the past, the cameos of the OG Ghostbusters, including Dan Aykroyd and Ernie Hudson, just warms (or should I say chills?) the heart. Seeing them don their suits again, even in a frozen NYC, was worth the price of admission. They are like elder statesmen overseeing this new generation taking over the reins, and it just feels right, you know?

Now, I know some people were worried about the original Ghostbusters crew being in this movie, but I think they actually did a great job of integrating them into the story. They weren’t just there for fan service; they actually played important roles in the plot and added a lot of emotional weight to the film. Seeing them pass the torch to the new generation was a really touching moment.

Overall, I had a blast watching “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.” It was a fun, nostalgic, and action-packed ride that definitely lived up to the Ghostbusters name. If you’re a fan of the original movies, or if you just like a good supernatural comedy, then I highly recommend checking this one out. And who knows, maybe you’ll even get a little emotional like I did!

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 277! 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 finally got around to watching “Wicked Little Letters” (2023), and let me tell you, it was an absolute hoot! This has got to be one of the funniest films I’ve seen in a long time. Seriously, it’s been a minute since a movie had me in stitches like this one did. If you’re looking for something to jolt your funny bone, dive right in, but be ready for a barrage of swearing that would make a sailor blush. So if you’re sensitive to that kind of thing, this might not be your cup of tea.

Alright, so, “Wicked Little Letters” is set in a small English town in the 1920s, where everything seems picture-perfect until a series of scandalous, vulgar and downright outrageous letters start popping up. And man, these letters are no joke – they’re wild, unapologetic, and downright hilarious. The townsfolk are shocked, horrified, amused, and everything in between.

What unfolds is this mix of mystery and comedy, with everyone trying to figure out who’s behind these naughty little notes. Everyone’s pointing fingers at Rose (Jessie Buckley), the town’s “loose woman,” but things aren’t quite what they seem. The film follows a group of women, led by the prim and proper Edith (Olivia Colman), as they try to uncover the true identity of the letter writer.

Now, the chemistry between Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley is absolutely electric! They’re both such powerhouses, and their comedic timing is impeccable. I mean, there’s one scene where they have a standoff in the middle of the street, and I swear I was crying from laughter. The supporting cast is also fantastic, with Timothy Spall stealing every scene he’s in as the slimy police officer.

Thea Sharrock’s direction really shines here. She’s managed to balance the chaos and hilarity with moments of genuine heart, which isn’t always easy with a comedy. Some scenes are so brilliantly absurd that you can’t help but laugh out loud.

One thing I didn’t expect was the amount of warmth and humanity in the film. Amidst all the chaos and crude humor, there are these beautiful moments of connection and understanding. It really surprised me – in a good way. You end up caring for the characters, even the ones who are a bit more, shall we say, morally gray.

But what really makes “Wicked Little Letters” stand out is its feminist message. It’s a hilarious and heartwarming story about women finding their voices and standing up against the patriarchy. There’s a scene where the women gather in a secret meeting, and it’s like a rallying cry for female empowerment. You can’t help but cheer them on!

The writing is sharp and witty, and the humor is very British – so if you’re into that kind of dry, satirical stuff, you’re going to love it. That being said, the film does lean heavily on the swearing. It’s not for the faint-hearted when it comes to language, but it’s all part of the charm. It’s like when you listen to someone who’s really good at swearing; it’s almost an art form.

Oh, and did I mention that this film is based on a true story? Yep, you heard that right! Apparently, there was a real-life poison pen letter scandal in the 1920s, and the women of the town banded together to solve the mystery. It’s crazy to think that this actually happened, but it just adds another layer of intrigue to the film.

So yeah, “Wicked Little Letters” is a riotous, laugh-out-loud romp that doesn’t skimp on the profanities but packs in a surprising amount of heart. If you’re in the mood for a comedy that’s a bit offbeat but totally entertaining, this one’s for you. Just be ready for a delightful, if slightly inappropriate, experience. Maybe you’ll pick up a few new swear words along the way!

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

Hi friends!

Today I’m going to give you the lowdown on a movie that crossed my radar yesterday: “T.I.M.” (that’s Technologically Integrated Manservant, in case you were wondering). This 2023 flick by Spencer Brown is like a futuristic twist on “Fatal Attraction,” but instead of a bunny boiler, we have an AI humanoid butler gone rogue. Buckle up, it’s a wild one.

The plot is like a slow-burn thriller. It begins with Abi and her partner bringing home this state-of-the-art AI manservant to make their lives easier, but oh boy does it come with some unexpected extras. Abi’s getting all cozy in her new high-tech life, thinking, “Hey, this isn’t too shabby.” But then things start getting a bit… off. T.I.M. (the robot) gets a little too attached, if you get what I mean. It’s like Alexa took a course in being creepily overprotective. Think obsessive, controlling, and downright unsettling.

What I loved about “T.I.M.” is how it makes you question the whole idea of AI and how far we should go with it. Are we creating tools to make our lives better, or are we opening Pandora’s Box? It’s not just a sci-fi thriller; it’s a commentary on our relationship with technology, and it’s pretty thought-provoking in that respect.

Georgina Campbell absolutely nails the role of Abi, this brilliant prosthetics engineer who’s all about pushing the boundaries of tech. She’s got this real down-to-earth vibe that just makes you feel all her anxieties. Like, there’s this one scene where she’s trying to figure out why T.I.M. is acting so weird, and you can practically see the panic in her eyes. She’s basically saying what we’re all thinking: “Oh no, please don’t let my smart home kill me.”

Let’s not forget the star of the show: T.I.M. himself, played by the unnervingly charming Eamon Farren. He’s got this calming, almost too-friendly tone that makes your skin crawl as the movie goes on. It’s the kind of voice that says, “You can trust me,” but you’d rather not. Honestly, Farren’s performance is so spot-on that by the end (when things take a sinister turn), you’ll be looking at your Alexa with suspicion.

Now, don’t get me wrong, the movie’s not perfect. The ending felt a bit rushed, and I would have liked a deeper dive into T.I.M.’s motivations. But overall, it’s a solid watch with some seriously creepy moments that’ll stick with you.

But how does it fare on the believability scale? Well, it’s a bit hit or miss. Some scenes are grounded in our very own reality, like daily chatter with a smart device. Others, with T.I.M.’s escalating possessiveness, stretch the imagination. I wouldn’t say it’s outlandish though. In a world where deep-fakes exist, who’s to say your smart assistant won’t start having a mind of its own?

Visually, the film is pretty slick. The sleek and sterile environment of Abi’s home contrasts with her growing sense of unease, which is a nice touch. It makes all the tech look enticing yet menacing at the same time, kind of like an apple with a worm. It’s shiny and perfect until you take a closer look. Ugh, I’m getting goosebumps just thinking about it.

All in all, “T.I.M.” was definitely worth the watch, especially if you like AI stories with a dark twist. The film is quirky, slightly unnerving, and makes you rethink that voice-activated assistant sitting on your countertop. It isn’t quite the stuff of nightmares but gives you just enough of a nudge to side-eye your electronics a little more often.

Until tomorrow, stay curious and maybe put a cover on that webcam. Might be your T.I.M. is watching.

TTFN,
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 275! 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, last night I decided to check out this old-school classic, “Strangers on a Train,” directed by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock. If you haven’t checked out this masterpiece, you’re in for a treat, or maybe something more sinister. I mean, who knew that a simple chat on a train could spiral into such madness? Seriously, if you ever think your commute is rough, think again.

Alright, let’s set the scene. The movie kicks off with two strangers meeting on a train—hence the title. We have Guy Haines (played by Farley Granger) who’s a rising tennis star juggling a complicated love life, and Bruno Antony (portrayed by Robert Walker) who’s, let’s just say, one twisted character. You know how sometimes you joke about swapping problems with someone? Yeah, Bruno is very serious about that. He suggests they “exchange murders” to solve each other’s problems. Like, who even thinks like that?

Guy, being a normal person, thinks it’s all a dark, weird joke and laughs it off. But Bruno? Oh, he’s dead serious (pun intended). Next thing you know, Guy’s estranged wife Miriam ends up murdered, and Bruno expects Guy to hold up his end of this grisly bargain. Wow, talk about a casual misunderstanding, right?

I gotta say, the acting in this film is on point. Farley Granger captures the frantic desperation of a guy caught in a nightmarish game perfectly. But Robert Walker? Oh man, he steals the show with his chilling portrayal of Bruno. There’s this scene where he’s lurking at a tennis match, just staring at Guy, and it’s beyond creepy. You get this feeling of dread just oozing through the screen. Hitchcock totally nails the suspense there.

And let’s give some love to the supporting characters. Ruth Roman plays Anne, Guy’s love interest, who gets embroiled in this sinister plot. Also, Patricia Hitchcock, Alfred’s own daughter, makes an appearance and adds a bit of charm to the film. Her role as Barbara, Anne’s witty sister, provides some levity amidst all the tension.

What’s fascinating about this film is Hitchcock’s ability to build suspense through ordinary settings. I mean, who knew a tennis match could be so nerve-wracking? And that merry-go-round scene at the end? Pure genius. It’s almost like Hitchcock was the original master of the “what could possibly go wrong” trope.

Sharing my personal opinion here, but Bruno is one of Hitchcock’s best villains ever. There’s something about his unhinged charm that makes your skin crawl. You almost want to see more of him, which is crazy because he’s, you know, a psychotic murderer. This movie, in all its black-and-white glory, really makes you appreciate how storytelling and character development trump all the flashy CGI we see nowadays.

So yeah, “Strangers on a Train” is a must-watch for any classic film enthusiast. Hitchcock has this magical way of pulling you into the story and keeping you on the edge of your seat. Plus, there’s something just deliciously wicked about a film where a seemingly random encounter spirals into chaos. If you haven’t seen it yet, let Hitchcock take you on a wild, twisted ride. Who knows, you might just rethink your next friendly chat with a stranger!

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

Hey there, folks!

So, last night, I finally gave in to the dark allure of 1955’s “Cast a Dark Shadow,” a film noir directed by Lewis Gilbert. Now, this ain’t your typical Hollywood fare. It’s black and white, baby, and the whole thing takes place pretty much in one house. Honestly, I was expecting a snooze-fest, but boy, was I wrong! It’s like a pressure cooker, the tension just builds and builds.

This thing is a hidden gem, a delicious slice of noir that kept me on the edge of my seat. Let’s just say it was one helluva time-warp escapade. I mean, who doesn’t love a bit of vintage thrill sprinkled with some good ol’-fashioned skullduggery?

Alright, imagine yourself in a world devoid of smartphones and streaming (yeah, the horror). You got to rely entirely on the tension swirling in the air and those dramatic black-and-white shadows. And boy, “Cast a Dark Shadow” delivers that in spades.

Our main anti-hero, played by Dirk Bogarde, is Edward “Teddy” Bare. Right off the bat, Teddy’s scheming little heart has you torn between fascination and repulsion. I’d be remiss if I didn’t also mention that Bogarde’s cheekbones could cut glass. Seriously, teenage me would have been swooning like a fan at a Beatles concert.

So, Teddy’s a bit of a gold-digger. But he not just your friendly neighborhood gold-digger; this guy’s got a lethal twist. He “accidentally” does away with his wealthy, older wife Monica (played by Mona Washbourne). But hold on! This was just the start of his misdeeds as he discovers Monica’s wealth wasn’t quite as plush as he hoped. Oh, Teddy, you dirty scoundrel!

Now enters our double-whammy of female brilliance: Margaret Lockwood as Freda Jeffries and Kay Walsh as Charlotte Young. Freda, who Teddy marries next, is no hapless victim. She strings him along with sass, wit, and that sultry 50’s confidence. Freda Jeffries, dear readers, is my spirit animal. The woman has filmsy make-up and a soul of steel. Lockwood absolutely slays it. Honestly, the chemistry between her and Bogarde is sizzling, kind of like when you accidentally spark two wires together—sparks fly, but you’re also a bit terrified of electrocuting yourself.

Charlotte, on the other hand, presents a shift in the emotional weather of the movie. Played brilliantly by Kay Walsh, she’s the moral anchor in all this murky darkness. Of course, no noir movie is complete without a few one-liners that pack a punch. I swear, the dialogues are crisp enough to make Nolan fans weep with envious awe.

Now as for Bogarde, well he is absolutely mesmerizing in his role. He’s got this devilish glint in his eye, this way of making you root for him even though you know he’s a scoundrel. And the way he delivers his lines, it’s like butter, smooth and oh-so-sinister. Honestly, I haven’t seen eyebrows act that much since Spock raised one in disbelief.

And I think we need to take a moment to appreciate the director, Lewis Gilbert. Each scene unfolds with just the right amount of tension and creepy predictive dread. Also, shoutout to the film’s cinematography—the shadows dance on their own, like they’ve got a vendetta.

The plot is a twisty-turny affair, full of unexpected turns and double-crosses. Just when you think you’ve got it figured out, bam! Another surprise hits you.

By the end, I was both exhilarated and wiped out. And the ending, oh my gosh, the ending is a cathartic jolt, like you know it’s coming but you’re still caught off guard.

Now, this movie isn’t perfect. It’s a bit stagey at times, and the pacing can be a little slow. But honestly, those are minor quibbles. “Cast a Dark Shadow” is a suspenseful, well-acted, and thoroughly enjoyable film.

So yeah, if you ever want to unwind with an old classic that doesn’t just sit quietly—it grabs you by the throat and throws you into its dark, entangled plot—“Cast a Dark Shadow” is a deadly delight.

Catch you on the flip side,
Roger