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

Hey there, friends!

Today, we chatting about a movie that’s colder than a Minnesota winter but way more entertaining: “Fargo,” a 1996 gem from the Coen brothers. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Another dark comedy? Really?” Trust me, this one’s different. It’s got all the quirks and twists you’d expect from the Coen brothers, plus a healthy dose of Midwestern charm (yes, it exists!). And it really hit me just how bizarrely brilliant this film is.

To set the scene, “Fargo” kicks off with this claim that it’s based on a true story, which gets your attention right away. But here’s a fun fact: it’s actually not. The Coen brothers just threw that in there to mess with us. Sneaky, right? It sets the stage for a film that’s a blend of dark comedy and crime thriller, all wrapped up in a snowy Minnesotan setting.

Now, the plot—oh, it’s a doozy. It revolves around a car salesman, Jerry Lundegaard (played by William H. Macy), who’s in a bit of a financial pickle. So, what does he do? He hires two goons to kidnap his wife, aiming to swindle some ransom money out of his wealthy father-in-law. As you can imagine, things don’t go according to plan. Like, at all. Like they go hilariously wrong.

The real star of the show is Frances McDormand, who plays Marge Gunderson, the pregnant police chief. She’s sharp as a tack, sweet as pie and armed with the best darn accent you’ll ever hear. Watching her unravel the case while dealing with morning sickness and craving Arby’s is just, you know, somehow both endearing and impressive. McDormand won an Oscar for her role, and boy, did she deserve it!

Then there’s the distinct ‘Minnesota nice’ flavor of dialogue, with its “oh yahs” and “you betchas.” It adds such a quirky charm to the film, making even the most sinister scenes oddly amusing. And the snowy backdrop while pretty to look at, adds a chill that goes beyond the weather.

And Steve Buscemi and Peter Stormare steal every scene they’re in as the bumbling kidnappers Carl and Gaear. Carl’s a nervous chatterbox, while Gaear barely utters a word (but his silence is somehow even funnier). The supporting cast is equally fantastic, each bringing their own brand of oddball energy to the screen.

But “Fargo” isn’t just about the laughs. It’s also a chilling look at the consequences of greed and desperation. The violence is shocking but never gratuitous, serving to highlight the absurdity of Jerry’s situation. And beneath the dark humor lies a surprisingly poignant story about human connection and the importance of finding joy in the simple things.

You know what else is cool about “Fargo”? Despite its grim plot, it has these moments of genuine human connection and warmth. Marge and her husband, Norm, their relationship is just so… normal. It’s a refreshing break from the chaos of the kidnapping plot, showing that life goes on, even in the midst of bizarre criminal shenanigans.

Fun fact: did you know that the wood chipper scene, one of the most iconic and gruesome moments in the film, was actually inspired by a real-life murder case in Connecticut? A man named Richard Crafts was arrested and found guilty of killing his wife and using a wood chipper to dispose of her body. Creepy!

So, yeah, “Fargo” is one of those films that you can no doubt watch over and over and still find new things to laugh about or ponder. I’d call it a masterpiece. The Coen brothers really knocked it out of the park with this one, crafting a film that’s both a critical darling and a cult favorite. It’s dark, it’s funny, it’s weirdly heartwarming, and it’s definitely worth your time.

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

Hey friends!

Last night’s movie was the kind that pulls at your heartstrings pulled and tickles your funny bone tickled. I’m talking about “I nostri fantasmi” (Our Ghosts) and wow, it was a rollercoaster of emotions—but not in that overused, cheesy way. This Italian gem is a delightful blend of humor, warmth, and social commentary.

The plot revolves around Valerio (Michele Riondino), a down-on-his-luck dad who’s lost his job and home. Desperate to shield his young son Carlo (the adorable Orlando Forte) from the clutches of social services, Valerio resorts to a quirky plan. They squat in the attic of their former apartment, playing ghosts to scare off any potential tenants. It’s like a heartwarming version of Home Alone, but with spectral shenanigans instead of booby traps!

The acting is phenomenal. Riondino’s portrayal of Valerio is so authentic—he embodies perfectly the desperation of a father willing to do anything for his child, while still managing to be endearingly goofy. And little Forte? He’s a natural! His wide-eyed innocence and infectious laughter had me grinning from ear to ear.

The film really shines when Hadas Yaron enters the scene as Miryam, a single mother who moves in with her own adorable daughter. Yaron’s quiet strength contrasts beautifully with Valerio’s frantic energy.

But don’t be fooled by the lighthearted tone! “I nostri fantasmi” also tackles some serious themes. It offers a poignant commentary on the struggles of single parents, the harsh realities of poverty, and the importance of found families.

The cinematography is also worth mentioning. Daniele Ciprì paints a vivid picture of Rome, capturing both its beauty and its grit. The scenes in the attic are particularly atmospheric, with shadows dancing and creaking floorboards adding to the spooky vibe.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: another ghost story? But trust me, this one is different. It’s not about jump scares or cheap thrills. It’s about the ghosts we carry within us—our fears, regrets, and past traumas. And it’s about finding the courage to face those ghosts and move on.

So if you’re in the mood for a film that will warm your heart, tickle your funny bone, and maybe even shed a tear or two, “I nostri fantasmi” might be your jam. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there’s always hope, love, and the possibility of a fresh start.

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

Hey friends!

Given that I love time travel movies (as you all know), I was excited when “About Time” came into my radar. This was my first time seeing it and let me tell you, it’s a gem! It’s now one of my favorites, right up there with “Back to the Future” and “Groundhog Day.” This one, though, is a little different. It’s more of a romantic comedy-drama with time travel as a backdrop, not the main event. Don’t get me wrong, the time travel is cool, but it’s the story and the characters that really make this movie shine.

First things first, let’s chat about the plot because it’s just so darn charming. We follow this adorably awkward guy named Tim, played by Domhnall Gleeson. He’s your typical redhead Brit, bumbling and sweet, with a bit of a clueless streak. On his 21st birthday, his dad, played by the ever-brilliant Bill Nighy, drops a bombshell: the men in their family can time travel. Yep, they just step into a dark place, clench their fists, and wham! Back in time they go. Now, Tim’s not about to use this power to save the world or anything grand like that. Nope, he wants to find love. Cue all the awwws.

Tim’s love interest, Mary, is portrayed by Rachel McAdams, and she’s just perfection. Seriously, her chemistry with Domhnall is off the charts. Mary’s this quirky, book-loving American who Tim meets in the dark (literally) at a blind dating restaurant. Their connection is instant, and you can’t help but root for them. Watching Tim fumble his way through time to win her heart is both hilarious and heartwarming. It’s like, imagine having a redo button for all those awkward first dates. We’d all be married by now, right?

As for the time travel itself, it’s not your typical sci-fi time travel with fancy gadgets and paradoxes. It’s more personal, intimate, and grounded in the everyday. Tim doesn’t change the world; he changes himself, his relationships, and how he sees life. And that’s what makes “About Time” so special. It’s a reminder to cherish the moments, big and small, because they all shape who we are.

One thing I really dug about “About Time” is how it tackles the whole time travel concept. It’s not just about the big moments; it’s about the little things, like savoring a perfect day or fixing a tiny mistake. Tim learns pretty quickly that while he can change the past, it doesn’t always go the way he plans. There’s this one scene where he tries to fix a bad first impression, only to make things even more cringe-worthy. Classic Tim.

And let’s not forget the supporting cast. Lydia Wilson as Tim’s sister, Kit Kat, is a total standout. She’s this wild, free spirit who struggles with her own demons. Their sibling bond is super touching, and there are some real tear-jerker moments. Also, shoutout to Tom Hollander, who plays Tim’s curmudgeonly playwright landlord. He’s got that dry British humor down pat.

About Time is a charming, funny, and thought-provoking film that celebrates the beauty of ordinary life So, if you’re in the mood for a movie that makes you laugh, cry, and ponder life’s little moments, “About Time” is your jam. It’s a perfect blend of romance, comedy, and a pinch of sci-fi, wrapped up in a beautifully British package. Plus, it’s totally jumped onto my list of fave movies. If you decide to give it a go, get ready to be swept off your feet.

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

Hey everyone!

So, I took the plunge into the spooky depths of the 2024 film “Tarot” this weekend, and let me tell you, it was a mixed bag. I went into this one with my expectations dialed waaaay down, having skimmed through some less-than-stellar reviews beforehand. And to be honest, they weren’t wrong. This movie isn’t going to win any awards, but hey, I’ve definitely suffered through worse horror flicks.

Being a bit of a tarot enthusiast myself (after all, I wrote an entire book series about a teenage boy who reads tarot), I was intrigued by the premise – a group of friends unleash a curse after messing with a mysterious tarot deck. Classic horror setup, right? What kind of bugged me is that they kept using the terms Tarot and Horoscope interchangeably. They’d deal out the cards and say, “I’m going read your “horoscope”, which, as anyone who’s dabbled in divination knows, is a completely different thing. It’s like calling a pizza a taco – it’s just not the same!

The movie’s setup is actually pretty cool and taps in the whole mystic vibe with a horror twist. It revolves around this group of friends who find an ancient tarot deck—not your run-of-the-mill card set you’d pick up at a quirky little shop, but something really old and creepy looking. Naturally, they do what any of us would do (not really — well, me, maybe)—they start playing with it. And, yes, chaos ensues. So you can guess what starts to happen next…Yep, it spirals into a nightmare of prophecies coming true, with each card draw leading to some intense, freaky events.

The plot itself is your typical “cursed group of friends get picked off one by one” scenario. Nothing groundbreaking, but the actors did a decent job of portraying their characters’ fear and confusion. Jacob Batalon, who you might recognize from the “Spider-Man” movies, provided a few much-needed comedic moments, but even his charm couldn’t save the movie from its predictable twists and turns.

Now, the action scene were pretty solid. The directors managed to keep the tension up, and there were a couple of jump-scares that actually got me—a rare feat!

But, guys, some scenes were so darn dark! I’m not just talking about the vibe, but literally, the lighting. There were moments when I was squinting at the screen trying to figure out who was doing what to whom. A little more light would have made those scenes a lot more gripping instead of a puzzle.

The use of the tarot theme was pretty clever though. It’s not just a gimmick; it actually ties into the plot and the characters’ development throughout the movie. The whole mystique of tarot readings and fate adds a layer of suspense—like, how much of our lives can we control, and what’s just destined to happen? Pretty deep stuff for a horror flick!

So yeah, “Tarot” is a bit of a mess and it isn’t going to win any awards for originality or execution. Still, it’s not the worst horror movie out there, but it’s definitely not a masterpiece either. If you’re a die-hard horror fan or just curious about anything tarot-related, you might find some enjoyment in it. But if you’re looking for a truly terrifying or original experience, you’re better off shuffling this one to the bottom of your watchlist.

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 262! 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 recently curled up for a movie night with an oldie but a goodie, “Splash” directed by Ron Howard. This flick is a fun blast from the past, especially for a die-hard Tom Hanks fan like me. Watching Tom in one of his early roles is like seeing him when he was just a rookie in the big leagues—totally fresh-faced, charming and a bit goofy. I mean, who doesn’t love young Hanks? The guy’s been a favorite of mine forever, and it’s like digging up a little treasure seeing him in his younger years.

“Splash” isn’t just a typical rom-com; it’s this whimsical romantic comedy that mixes romance with a splash (yup, pun intended) of fantasy. It’s the story of Allen Bauer (played by Tom Hanks), a dude who’s kind of unlucky in love, who ends up falling head over heels for a mysterious woman named Madison, who is, plot twist, a mermaid! Yeah, you heard that right, a mermaid in New York City! Madison is wonderfully played by Daryl Hannah, who brings this innocence and charm to the whole fish-out-of-water (pun totally intended) scenario. Imagine falling in love with someone who’s got a scaly tail hidden under her clothes. Kind of makes your worst date seem pretty okay, right?

The story kicks off with a flashback to Allen’s childhood when he first encounters Madison in the waters off Cape Cod. Fast forward years later, and they meet again under rather unusual circumstances—she’s naked at the Statue of Liberty. Classic, right? Madison’s got a limited time on land, and the clock’s ticking on their quirky love story as they try to dodge scientists and government officials.

Now, let’s talk about the supporting cast because, oh boy, they are a hoot! We’ve got Eugene Levy and John Candy—both absolute legends. Eugene Levy plays Walter Kornbluth, a zany scientist who’s hell-bent on exposing Madison as a mermaid. He’s awkward, a bit of a klutz, and you can’t help but love to hate him. Then there’s John Candy as Allen’s brother, Freddie, who’s just the right mix of sleazy and sweet, providing a ton of the laughs and some surprisingly tender moments too. Candy brings his trademark humor, playing the lovable rogue who’s always got a wisecrack ready.

I gotta say, the chemistry between Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah is pretty magical, though. You genuinely root for these two to make it against all odds. And the comedic timing? Spot on. The scene where Allen discovers Madison’s secret? Absolutely priceless! It’s moments like these that remind you how fun movies used to be before everything got so heavy and high-tech.

One of the coolest parts about “Splash” is how it mixes the everyday hustle and bustle of New York City with this magical mermaid lore. Madison’s adaptation to human life has some truly adorable moments—from her first encounter with television to picking up English from watching it nonstop on TV.

Visually, “Splash” has this vibrant, almost dreamy quality to it, especially the underwater scenes. The way they portray the ocean, Madison’s home, is just enchanting. And considering this was the early ’80s, those effects were pretty cutting-edge. It’s kind of cool to see how they pulled off the mermaid tail and underwater sequences without the tech we have now.

What I think makes “Splash” so memorable, aside from the whole mermaid romance angle, is its heart. The movie doesn’t just go for easy laughs; it digs a little deeper. It’s about finding your place in the world and figuring out where you belong, whether on land or sea. Plus, it’s about the lengths we go to for love, and how sometimes, the right person (or mermaid) is worth jumping oceans for.

Fun fact: Did you know that “Splash” is credited with popularizing the name “Madison” for girls? Before the movie, it was virtually unheard of as a first name, but it shot up in popularity in the years following. Talk about a cultural impact, right?

All in all, “Splash” is a total feel-good movie that’s perfect for a chill night in. It’s got romance, comedy, a bit of fantasy, and young Tom Hanks. What’s not to love? If you haven’t seen it yet, or if it’s been a while, definitely give it a watch. It’s like a little escape into a world where love is as deep as the ocean.

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

Hey Folks,

So, I finally got around to watching “Van Helsing” – yeah, the one from 2004 directed by Stephen Sommers. Let me tell you, it was a blast! Imagine stuffing Dracula, his brides, Frankenstein, Frankenstein’s monster, and the wolf-man into a little over two hours of screen time. Sound like a giant monster mash party? Absolutely, and I’m here for it.

First off, Hugh Jackman plays our hero, Van Helsing, the monster hunter extraordinaire and honestly, who better to wrangle a bunch of supernatural baddies than Wolverine himself, right? Jackman brings this rugged, brooding charisma to Van Helsing, a man haunted by his past and on a mission to rid the world of evil. And let’s not forget Kate Beckinsale as Anna Valerious, who is just phenomenal. She’s this fearless noblewoman, and together with Van Helsing, they’re like the dynamic duo of monster hunting.

The plot? It’s pretty wild. Van Helsing is sent to Transylvania to take down Dracula, who’s been terrorizing the region along with his brides. The whole movie is this intense, gothic adventure with lots of twists and turns through dark castles and eerie landscapes. It’s like stepping into a Halloween theme party that doesn’t end.

The special effects, oh man, they’re a hoot! Sure, by today’s standards, they might not hold up, but back in the day, they were pretty cutting-edge. The transformation scenes of Dr. Jekyll and the wolf-man are particularly cool, and those flying sequences with Dracula’s brides? Totally over-the-top but in the best way possible.

Now, I know the critics weren’t exactly throwing roses at it, and yeah, the plot can feel like a kitchen sink drama with monsters. But honestly? I think that’s part of its charm. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s what makes it such a fun ride. Plus, the music by Alan Silvestri adds this epic, adventurous feel that just pulls you in further.

In terms of acting, Hugh Jackman is clearly having a ball as the titular hero. He brings a sense of rugged charm and charisma to the role that’s hard to resist. Kate Beckinsale is equally captivating as Anna Valerious, a woman determined to break her family’s curse.

As for the creatures, Dracula, played by Richard Roxburgh, is as charismatic as he is menacing. He’s delightfully sinister as The Count. And the brides? They’re terrifying yet oddly mesmerizing. There’s this scene where they swoop down from the sky, and it’s just pure cinematic candy. And don’t get me started on Frankenstein’s monster — he’s got this tragic vibe that adds depth among the chaos.

One of the things I appreciated most about “Van Helsing” was its sense of adventure. The movie takes us from the cobblestone streets of Transylvania to the snowy peaks of the Carpathian Mountains, and each location is rendered in stunning detail. It’s a movie that truly transports you to another world.

Of course, “Van Helsing” isn’t without its flaws. The pacing can be a bit uneven at times, and some of the plot points are a bit predictable. And some of the stunts were way over-the-top. But if you’re willing to suspend your disbelief and just go along for the ride, you’re in for a treat.

So yeah, “Van Helsing” is a reminder of why we love movies in the first place – they’re an escape, a chance to experience worlds we’d never otherwise see. So, if you’re in the mood for a campy, action-packed adventure that doesn’t skimp on the monsters, give it a watch. It might just be the fun escapade you’re looking for.

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 257! 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, guess what movie I finally got around to watching? Yep, “Isn’t it Romantic,” directed by Todd Strauss-Schulson, and honestly, I’m kicking myself for not watching it sooner. I loved this film to bits! It’s like, you know how sometimes you’re just in the mood for something that doesn’t take itself too seriously? That’s exactly what I got with this gem.

The movie stars Rebel Wilson as Natalie, an architect in New York City who’s, let’s be real, a bit of a cynic when it comes to love, especially the rom-com variety. She, like, totally despises romantic comedies. Can you blame her? Rom-coms can be so predictable with their perfect endings and over-the-top romantic gestures. But here’s the kicker – after a knock on the head, Natalie wakes up in the middle of a real-life rom-com, complete with all the clichés and tropes you can think of! Cue the cheesy music and ridiculously attractive guys.

Now, Rebel Wilson? She’s a riot. I’ve always appreciated her knack for comedic timing and the way she can, like, totally own a scene. She’s witty, she’s sassy, and her comedic timing is on point. And the confusion mixed with horror as she navigates this sugar-coated world is just priceless. Then there’s Adam Devine, who plays Josh, Natalie’s best friend who might just have a thing for her. Their chemistry? Absolutely adorable. And don’t even get me started on Liam Hemsworth as the handsome client who suddenly shows interest in Natalie. He plays the charming yet shallow romantic interest to a T.

The film does this brilliant thing where it pokes fun at all the absurdities of typical rom-coms – the spontaneous dance numbers (yes, there’s dancing!), the way New York looks suspiciously clean, and even how everyone seems to find parking right in front of their destination (seriously, where does that ever happen?). It’s like the movie is saying, “We know how ridiculous this looks, and we’re totally here for it.”

What I really dig is how the film wraps itself in all the rom-com fluff but also manages to deliver some pretty cool reflections on self-love and being the protagonist of your own life. Natalie’s journey of realizing she doesn’t need anyone to complete her is, you know, pretty empowering. It’s refreshing to see a film that not only makes fun of the formula but also embraces what’s good about it – the hope, the optimism, and the belief in happy endings, even if they’re not what you’d expect.

And, oh boy, the scenes are just packed with eye candy – the colors, the lighting, and the picturesque settings all scream “rom-com paradise.” It’s like stepping into a world where everything is designed to be Instagram-worthy.

Honestly, I laughed so hard during this movie. The jokes are clever, the situations are absurd, and the whole thing is just so much fun.

Oh, and I have to give a shout out to Betty Gilpin. She plays Whitney, Natalie’s assistant-turned-enemy in the rom-com world, and she is absolutely fantastic. The switch from loyal assistant to trope-y “workplace nemesis” had me rolling.

So, yeah, “Isn’t it Romantic” is a sweet, bubbly concoction of fun, self-awareness, and critique wrapped in a sparkly rom-com bow. It’s a love letter to the genre that also manages to cheekily tear it apart. If you’re looking for a light-hearted watch that’s aware of its own silliness, this is it. Put it on your watch list, like, now.

Peace Out, ✌️
Roger