This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE

Hey friends!

So, I finally got around to watching “Along With the Gods: The Two Worlds,” and let me tell you, it’s a rollercoaster of emotions! Directed by Yong-hwa Kim, this 2017 South Korean film is like a wild ride through a mystical theme park you never knew existed. 🎢

The story? It’s all about the afterlife, but not in a creepy, ghostly way. Imagine if you had supernatural beings (who are surprisingly relatable) guiding you through trials to determine your fate in the afterlife. Sounds intense, right? But here’s the twist – it’s packed with humor, heart, and some mind-blowing action scenes that’ll make you forget to munch on your popcorn! 🍿

Let’s dive into the plot a bit. The film kicks off with a brave firefighter, Ja-hong, who dies heroically. But death is just the beginning here. Ja-hong is escorted by three guardians through the afterlife where he must pass seven trials over 49 days. Each trial tests a different aspect of his life – betrayal, violence, indolence… You get the picture. The aim? Prove he led a noble life and secure his spot in the afterlife. But it’s not just about him; the guardians have their own backstories that intertwine with Ja-hong’s journey, adding layers to the narrative.

The visuals are stunning. We’re talking top-notch CGI that makes you feel like you’re part of this fantastical world. The special effects team really outdid themselves, creating a feast for the eyes. 🌈

What really got me were the characters. Each guardian had their own unique personality, and their banter was the cherry on top of this cinematic sundae. The emotional depth they bring to the table is something you wouldn’t expect in a fantasy film. I mean, one moment I’m laughing, and the next, I’m reaching for tissues. 😂😭

The plot twists are another level. Just when you think you’ve figured it all out, bam! The film takes a turn you didn’t see coming. It’s like playing a game of cosmic chess with the universe. 🌌

Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Some parts felt a bit dragged out, and I found myself checking my watch a couple of times. But hey, no film is perfect, right?

In a nutshell, “Along With the Gods: The Two Worlds” is a fantastic blend of fantasy, action, and emotion. It’s a film that’s not just about the afterlife, but about the bonds we form in life. So grab some snacks, find a comfy spot, and give this movie a watch. You won’t regret it! 🍕🛋️. I think I must may have found a new film to add to my favorites list.

See 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. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE

Hey there, fellow movie buffs! 🎬 Just watched “Soft Lad” directed by Leon Lopez (2015), and I’ve got some thoughts to share. Let’s dive right into it!

This film is a gay-themed drama with a somewhat predictable storyline about a complicated love triangle involving a young dancer, David, his sister’s husband, Jules, and another man, Sam. The film explores themes of love, lust, betrayal, and the challenges of coming to terms with one’s sexuality. Without giving too much away, let’s just say there’s a lot of heartache and tough lessons learned.

The plot, while somewhat predictable, does a decent job of portraying the struggles and conflicts faced by the protagonist. But hey, not every story needs to twist and turn to be engaging, right? However, at times, it felt like the story was treading familiar territory.

One thing that bugged me a bit was the music score and vocals. They were intense, but sometimes they totally drowned out the dialogue. I mean, I’m all for dramatic music, but I also want to hear what the characters are saying, right? 😕

And ugh, the ending was just crushing… it was a real downer. We’re talking full-on tragedy and despair to the max. It’s like you can see the train wreck coming, but you’re powerless to stop it. 😢

On the acting front, kudos to the cast – they really brought their A-game. The performances were genuine and heartfelt. But, and it’s a big but, the film was sooooo depressing. It wasn’t just a little sad; it was like diving headfirst into a pool of gloom. 😨

As the movie progressed, I felt it started to drag a bit toward the end. Like, I get it, we’re in the thick of despair, but let’s move it along, please. Despite the solid acting, the overwhelming sense of dismalness just made it a tough watch. There were parts where I was literally squirming in my seat, it was that intense. 😣

You know, it seems like a lot of gay-themed movies tend to be big downers like this. I swear they’re often so depressing! 😑 Sure they tackle important topics, but throw us a bone with some happiness once in awhile, amirite?

So, there you have it. “Soft Lad” is a well-acted exploration of love, pain, and the complexities of relationships. But be warned – it’s a heavy watch, filled with a heavy dose of sadness and despair. 💔 If you’re looking for a pick-me-up flick, this ain’t it! You’ll want to make sure to have something light and cheerful lined up for afterward! 🌈

Catch you next time,
Roger🍿🎥

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE

Hey there, fellow movie lovers!

I just got back from the Oriental Theater (my local indie theater here in Milwaukee) from seeing “The Holdovers,” a film that was just released this week. And wow, I just had to sit down and share my thoughts with you all. This film, let me tell you, it’s something special.

First off, the setting is just perfect. The story takes place in a prep school during the Christmas season of 1970, which gives it this cozy, almost nostalgic feel. The cinematography? Stunning. Every shot looks like it could be a postcard from a bygone era.

What really struck me was the character development. Paul, played by the incredible Paul Giamatti, starts off as this grumpy, unlikable character. But as the story unfolds, you start to see the layers peel back, revealing a much more complex and sympathetic character. But I also have to give major props to the actors playing Angus (Dominic Sessa) and Mary (Da’Vine Joy Randolph). They bring such depth and authenticity to their roles, making every scene they’re in absolutely captivating.

Now, let’s talk about the plot. It revolves around Paul, a universally disliked teacher, and Angus, the trouble-making student whose disruptive behavior has gotten him expelled in the past. Paul and Angus are both ‘holdovers’ during the Christmas break, along with the cafeteria manager, Mary, a grieving mother whose son was recently lost in Vietnam. The dynamic between these three characters is the heart of the movie, and it’s handled so beautifully.

I’ve got to delve deeper into the dynamic between Paul and Angus, because it’s just too good not to mention. These two characters are like oil and water – so different that their interactions are both hilariously relatable and deeply insightful.

Paul, the gruff, abrasive teacher who’s seen it all, and Angus, the rebellious student, bring out the best and worst in each other. Their back-and-forth is not just entertaining; it’s a clever depiction of generational clashes and differing worldviews. Their relationship adds a whole new layer to the film, making it not just a story about unlikely friendships, but also about understanding and bridging gaps.

The way these two characters challenge each other, often unintentionally leading to growth and self-realization, is a testament to the film’s brilliant writing and character development. It’s fascinating to watch as their initial animosity gradually transforms into a grudging respect, and then into something resembling a quirky mentor-mentee relationship.

Their dynamic also adds a lot of humor to the movie. The witty banter, the eye-rolling moments, the unexpected moments of vulnerability – it’s all there, painting a very real picture of how people from different walks of life can influence each other in the most unexpected ways.

Oh – and the dialogue in this film was sharp, witty, and often surprisingly profound. There were many moments that had me laughing out loud, and others where I found myself nodding along, deeply touched.

One more thing that struck me that I want to mention is the film’s portrayal of smoking – it’s practically a character in its own right! In “The Holdovers,” you’ll notice people smoking everywhere: at the dinner table, in the theater, in their offices, you name it. It’s an authentic nod to the era the movie is set in – the 1970s, when smoking was far more prevalent and socially accepted than it is today.

This detail, while small, adds a significant layer of realism to the film. It’s like the filmmakers are saying, “Hey, this is how it was,” without glamorizing or condemning it. You’ll see characters engaging in conversations with a cigarette or pipe in hand, in scenes that range from casual to highly emotional. It’s fascinating to observe how this aspect is woven seamlessly into the fabric of the film, reflecting the social norms and attitudes of the time. It transported me right back into the heart of the 1970s.

In short, “The Holdovers” isn’t just a film; it’s an experience. It’s a story about human connection, growth, and understanding, wrapped up in a beautifully shot, wonderfully acted package. Whether you’re a fan of dramas, character studies, or just good storytelling in general, this is a film that should be on your radar. This film is a beautiful blend of humor, heart, and humanity, and the dynamic between Paul, Angus and Mary is one of its many highlights.

If you’re looking for a movie that’s a little off the beaten path but incredibly rewarding, give this one a watch. You won’t regret it!

Alright, that’s enough rambling from me! If you’ve seen “The Holdovers,” I’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you haven’t, what are you waiting for? Go check it out!

Catch you in the next screening!
Roger

P.S. Thus far, I’ve enjoyed every movie I’ve seen for my movie-a-day challenge. I can’t help but wonder when my luck is going to run out?

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE

Hey everyone,

Hey, folks! Buckle up because today, I’m diving into a movie that left me feeling all sorts of emotions: “Boy Erased.” Honestly, this is a tough one to write about. It’s one of those films that’s as difficult to discuss as it was to watch. Truth be told, this has been on my queue for a couple of years now but I’ve been putting it off because I knew it was going to be a challenging film to watch. And I was right.

“Boy Erased” is not your run-of-the-mill popcorn flick. It’s intense, it’s disturbing, and it’s based on a true story. The film centers around a young man named Jared (played by the brilliant Lucas Hedges), who is forced into a gay conversion therapy program by his deeply religious parents (played by Russell Crowe and Nicole Kidman). The film dives deep into the disturbing realities of conversion therapy, showcasing the emotional and psychological turmoil it inflicts.

Watching the protagonist, Jared, navigate through these harrowing experiences was both gripping and heart-wrenching. His journey was intense and deeply disturbing. The film doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of these practices, and it’s a testament to the director, Joel Edgerton, who also plays a chilling role in the film. The emotional weight carried by the movie is heavy, and scenes filled with confrontation and confusion really hit hard.

Now, let me be clear – this is NOT a feel-good movie. It’s a hard-hitting, gut-wrenching portrayal of the horrors of conversion therapy and the toll it takes on those subjected to it. You’ll witness the emotional and psychological torture that Jared and his fellow “patients” endure, and it’s not easy to watch.

What really got to me were the performances. Lucas Hedges delivers a powerhouse performance, conveying the pain and confusion of his character with remarkable skill. Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe, playing Jared’s parents, are absolutely phenomenal. Their portrayal of the conflicting emotions of faith, family, and love was heartbreakingly real. It’s a testament to the cast’s talent that they can tackle such a heavy subject matter and make it feel so real.

The film beautifully, yet painfully, captures the internal battles of acceptance, identity, and the pursuit of self-truth. Throughout the film, I was on an emotional rollercoaster. Scenes of confrontation, confusion, and the struggle for self-acceptance are depicted with such raw intensity that it’s impossible not to feel deeply for the characters.

From a cinematic point of view, the film is masterfully crafted. The pacing, the cinematography, and the score all combine to create a gripping and immersive experience. However, it’s the raw intensity of the story and the powerful performances that truly set this film apart.

In all, “Boy Erased” is not an easy film to watch. It’s super intense, it’s disturbing, it’s gut-wrenching, but above all, it’s incredibly important. It’s a film that not only brings to light the struggles many in the LGBT community continue to face but also serves as a call for empathy, understanding, and change. It’s also a reminder that love and acceptance should always triumph over intolerance and ignorance.

So, if you’re up for a challenging cinematic experience that’ll stick with you long after the credits roll, give it a shot. Just have some tissues handy – you might need them.

Until tomorrow,
Roger