movie-a-day-challenge

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 142! 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 finally decided to dive into the world of “2:22” last night. This is a 2017 flick directed by Paul Currie that’s been sitting on my watchlist for what feels like an eternity. Given that I love mind-bendy, parallel universe type of films, I was looking forward to this.

The movie stars the dreamy Michiel Huisman (swoon!) as Dylan, an air traffic controller whose life gets flipped upside down after a weird light show in the sky messes with his job (when, you know, he almost causes a mid-air plane collision at exactly 2:22 PM). After getting suspended, Dylan starts noticing a seriously eerie pattern: every single day at precisely 2:22 PM, something bizarre happens. Like, think exploding windows, falling chandeliers and car accidents. Talk about bad luck, Dylan!

His quest to understand these 2:22 occurrences leads him down a path filled with cryptic messages, and a whole lot of head-scratching moments. The film keeps you guessing, throwing out clues like confetti at a parade. Is it all in Dylan’s head? Is there a deeper conspiracy at play? The director, Paul Currie, does a fantastic job of building suspense, and before you know it, you’re right there with Dylan, trying to crack the code.

And the patterns! They’re like this thread weaving through the narrative, promising something grand and mystifying. Honestly, the whole concept had me hooked like a good mystery should. There’s something undeniably cool about the universe dropping cosmic breadcrumbs for our main characters to follow.

Then enter Sarah, portrayed by the talented Teresa Palmer, who’s basically the living embodiment of “mysterious and intriguing love interest.” Their paths cross, sparks fly, and suddenly, we’re in a romance tangled up with a mystery thriller vibe. I mean, talk about multitasking in genres!

Now, I won’t spoil the ending for you (because, seriously, where’s the fun in that?), but let’s just say things get pretty darn philosophical. The film explores ideas of destiny, free will, and the interconnectedness of everything. It’s the kind of film that makes us question our own perception of reality, which, you know, is exactly what a good sci-fi flick should do!

But here’s the thing, though: “2:22” isn’t for everyone. If you crave clear-cut answers and predictable plots, this might not be your cup of tea. But for those of you who enjoy a good mind-meld of a movie, with a dash of mystery and a sprinkle of romance (because, hello, Huisman and Palmer!), then this film is definitely worth a watch. Just be prepared to have your brain cells doing some serious gymnastics!

“2:22” left me wanting to discuss it with everyone I know (which is why I’m rambling on here, of course). It’s a film that prompts you to ponder the very fabric of reality. So, if you’re looking for a movie that will challenge your perceptions and leave you with more questions than answers, then “2:22” might be your jam!

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

Hey friends,

Today’s movie review is a tad different this time! We’re visiting a sweaty, sweltering jury room in 1957’s “12 Angry Men.” Directed by the awesome Sidney Lumet, this black and white classic focuses on twelve ordinary dudes deciding the fate of a young man accused of murdering his father. ‍⚖️

Now, hold on a sec, don’t let the limited setting fool you. This movie is a tension-filled rollercoaster from start to finish. The plot thickens when Henry Fonda, who plays Juror #8, is like, “Hold up, folks. Are we really sure this kid did it?” And thus begins the most intense debate club meeting you’ve ever seen. The dynamics in that room? Electric. The arguments? Fire. It’s like watching a verbal ping-pong match where every word could tip the scales of justice. The rest of the jury? A volatile mix of personalities, from the short-tempered Juror Three (Lee J. Cobb) to the stuttering Juror Nine (Arthur Franz).

As the movie unfolds, it’s like watching a pressure cooker about to explode. The arguments get heated, the air gets thick, and you can practically feel the sweat beading on their brows thanks to some fantastic close-up shots. Fonda’s Juror Eight is the voice of reason, slowly chipping away at the pre-conceived notions and biases of his fellow jurors. It’s a masterclass in critical thinking, forcing you to question everything you think you know about the case based on just circumstantial evidence.

What I loved most was how this movie, with its simple setup, digs into themes like prejudice, justice, and the importance of standing by your convictions. It’s all dialogue, baby, but the kind that keeps you on the edge of your seat. And those camera angles? Sidney Lumet knew what he was doing, giving us those close-ups that make you feel like you’re right there in the jury room, sweating it out with the rest.

But what really elevates “12 Angry Men” is the phenomenal acting. Each juror feels like a fully realized person, with their own baggage and prejudices. You get frustrated with them, you root for them, and by the end, you feel like you’ve been through this whole ordeal with them. Henry Fonda, in particular, is just incredible. He embodies that quiet strength and unwavering belief that keeps pushing for the truth.

This movie isn’t just about a murder trial, though. It’s a powerful commentary on the American justice system, mob mentality, and the importance of due process. It made me think long and hard about the responsibility that comes with being a juror. I mean, these twelve guys hold someone’s life in their hands, and the weight of that is palpable.  I also loved how the film addressed racism and toxic masculinity without mentioning racism and toxic masculinity — it was subtle but not subtle. Yeah, there’s a lot going on in this movie.

In all honesty, watching “12 Angry Men” was a good reminder of how powerful words can be. It’s amazing to think that a film with 12 guys talking in a room could be so gripping. And it made me ponder—how often do we judge too quickly? Or speak without listening? This movie, my friends, is a timeless call to pause, reflect, and maybe, just maybe, change your mind when appropriate.

So yeah, if you’re looking for a movie that will challenge you and make you think, this is a must-watch. Just be prepared to sweat a little – even with the AC on high!

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

Hi Friends!

So, for my movie of the day, I decided to stream something a bit off the beaten path the other night and ended up watching “I Lost My Body” – yeah, the 2019 French animated film directed by Jérémy Clapin. And let me tell ya, it was an experience. 🎬. It had me equal parts grossed out, mesmerized, and emotionally wrecked. Seriously, this movie is not for the faint of heart, but if you’re down for a mind-bending experience, keep reading!

The movie is, like, really out there with its premise. Imagine a severed hand (yep, you read that right – think “Thing” from the Addams Family) escaping a Parisian laboratory to reunite with its body. Sounds like something out of a weird dream, doesn’t it? Well, that’s exactly how watching it felt.

Alongside, we’ve got this heart-tugging story of Naoufel, a young man with a rather tragic past, who works at a pizza place in a grimy part of Paris. Naoufel’s life isn’t exactly sunshine and rainbows – he’s kind of lost, stuck in the dead-end job and struggles to find his purpose. What’s interesting is how the film flips back to his earlier memories, giving us a glimpse of his childhood and how the past events that occurred rippled into his present life.

Voiced by Hakim Faris (Naoufel), Victoire Du Bois (Gabrielle), and Patrick d’Assumçao (Gigi), the characters come to life in a manner that’s both compelling and deeply human, even when one of them is, uh, a hand. You know, I kinda found myself rooting for the hand more than for some characters in other movies I’ve watched, which says something about the storytelling here.

The movie then flips between two narratives. One follows Naoufel as he deals with his emotional trauma and the other perspective is, well, from the hand itself. This severed appendage, which I came to affectionately (if weirdly) know as “Hand,” is on a desperate journey to reunite with its owner. The animation for Hand is both grotesque and strangely beautiful. It’s a disembodied mess of muscle and bone, scrambling through the grimy underbelly of Paris. Think “Spirited Away” meets “The Thing,” and you’re kind of on the right track. The two narratives weave together in ways that are as unexpected as finding pineapple on your pizza – surprisingly good but not for everyone.

This flick doesn’t just play with your emotions; it juggles them while riding a unicycle on a tightrope. One moment you’re in the depths of despair with Naoufel, feeling every bit of his loneliness and longing, and the next, you’re cheering on a hand as it navigates the dangers of a big city (such at battling rats…really!). It’s bizarre, it’s touching, and it’s got that certain je ne sais quoi that sticks with you.

But here’s the thing: despite the whole severed-hand situation, “I Lost My Body” is actually a surprisingly tender story. It’s about connection, isolation, and the lengths we go to for the people (or body parts) we care about. As Naoufel searches for answers, Hand encounters a whole cast of strange characters adding a fascinating layer to the film.

And the animation style is phenomenal! It’s not your typical Saturday morning cartoon vibe but rather offers a mix of detailed backgrounds and a slightly muted, almost dreamlike quality for the characters. The way Clapin uses visuals to tell this story is nothing short of stunning. The score is also incredible – a haunting mix of strings and piano that perfectly captures the film’s melancholic atmosphere.

Now, you might be thinking, “Is this movie for me?” And honestly, it might not be everyone’s cup of tea (or coffee, or whatever your poison is). But if you’re up for something that’s equal parts beautiful, tragic, and utterly unique, then you might just find “I Lost My Body” to be a hidden gem.

Just be aware that “I Lost My Body” isn’t your typical feel-good flick. It’s dark, disturbing at times, and will definitely leave you with something to ponder. But it’s also a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the human condition in a truly unique way. It made me ponder the paths we take in life, the connections we seek, and the parts of ourselves we sometimes lose along the way. It’s also a reminder that sometimes the most unexpected journeys are the ones that lead us back to ourselves.

TTFN 👋
Roger

P.S. Fun fact: Did you know that “I Lost My Body” is the first animated film to win the Nespresso Grand Prize at the Cannes Film Festival? Yup, that happened in 2019, and it’s a pretty big deal considering it’s mostly live-action films that snag that prize. (Source: Cannes Film Festival official website)

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

Hey there, folks!

Today we’re diving into the world of John Wick: Chapter 2, and let me tell you, it’s a wild ride. If you haven’t seen the first John Wick, well, what are you waiting for (You can read my review of it HERE)? But even if you’re new to the whole assassin-with-a-code thing, this sequel will have you glued to your seat.

First things first, Keanu Reeves is back as the brooding, dog-loving assassin we all root for, despite his body count being higher than my calorie intake on a cheat day. 😂 The movie kicks off right where we left off, with John seeking to retrieve his stolen car. But, like, it’s John Wick, so it’s not just a trip to the impound lot. No, it’s a full-on ballet of destruction.

What’s fascinating about this sequel is how it dives deeper into the lore of the assassin world. The Continental Hotel’s rules, the blood oaths, and the high table stuff—it’s like discovering there’s a secret menu at your favorite burger joint. You thought you knew all there was to know, but there’s this whole other level.

Now, let’s talk about the plot because, oh my, it’s like someone threw gasoline on a fire. Wick is trying to live his retired life, but gets dragged back into the fray because of a blood oath to Santino D’Antonio, a guy you love to hate. The mission? Assassinate Santino’s sister. Yeah, from there, it gets really, really messy.

So, John heads to Rome (because why not, right?) to take out a mafia boss’s sister. This is where things get crazy. We’re talking shootouts in fancy suits, car chases through the cobblestone streets of Rome (side note: those poor pedestrians!), and enough dead bodies to fill a coliseum. The action sequences are, like, insanely well-choreographed. John Wick is a ballet of bullets, weaving through rooms and dodging gunfire with the grace of a freaking dancer.

It’s brutal, sure, but also oddly beautiful. It’s like watching a dance. A dance of death, but a dance nonetheless. The gun-fu, the car chases, the hand-to-hand combat—it’s all so… so much, and I’m here for it. Keanu Reeves does most of his stunts, which just adds to the whole “Wow, am I really seeing this?” vibe.

But it’s not just Keanu; the whole cast is stellar. Ian McShane as Winston, the Continental’s manager, brings that calm, menacing vibe we adore. And can we talk about Ruby Rose as Ares? She’s mute but communicates so much with just her expressions and sign language. Major props.

But John Wick: Chapter 2 isn’t just about the action (although, let’s be honest, that’s a big part of the appeal). The world-building in this movie is fantastic. There’s this whole secret assassin society with its own currency (gold coins!), rules (don’t kill on Continental grounds!), and assassins with specialties (like a freaking knife-wielding hitwoman played by the awesome Ruby Rose!). It’s like a dark, twisted version of the Hogwarts houses, but way more bullets and way less butterbeer.

There’s a sense of humor in the movie that I appreciate. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, even though the body count is through the roof. Like, there’s a scene where Wick and Cassian (played by the fantastic Common) are nonchalantly shooting at each other with silenced pistols in a crowded place, and it’s just kinda hilarious.

John Wick: Chapter 2 is a non-stop action thrill ride. It’s stylish, brutal, and surprisingly funny at times (John Wick has a very particular way with a pencil, let’s just say). If you’re looking for an action movie that will blow your mind (and maybe make you wince a little), then this is the movie for you. Just be warned, once you enter the world of John Wick, you might find yourself wanting to learn some killer gun-fu skills yourself (although, maybe leave that to the professionals).

Until next time, keep it real and remember: always be kind to dogs. 🐶

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

Hey friends! 🌈

So, guess who just spent another evening plunging into the abyss of mind-bending cinema? Yep, your very own movie junkie right here. This time, I wrapped myself in the enigma that is “Lucid Dream,” directed by the visionary Joon-Sung Kim. And let me tell ya, it was a trip worth taking. I mean, I’m always a sucker for anything that messes with my head (in the best way possible), and this flick? It did not disappoint.

Let’s get the basics down first. “Lucid Dream” is this thriller that hooks you with the story of Dae-ho (played by the brilliant Go Soo), a journalist whose son gets kidnapped. Fast forward three years and the case has gone cold. We find Dae-ho desperate, with the police having zero leads. That’s when lucid dreaming comes into play – as a method to unlock memories of the day his son disappeared. Basically, it’s being aware you’re dreaming and being able to control your dreams. Sounds cool, right? It’s like, “Hey, let’s take a detour through the subconscious!” Sign me up!

Dae-ho is determined to use this trippy tech to revisit his own dreams from the night his son vanished. Here’s where things get INSANE. The movie throws some seriously mind-bending visuals at you. Dae-ho’s dreamscape is a chaotic rollercoaster of collapsing buildings, gravity-defying fight scenes, and haunting glimpses of his missing son. It’s visually stunning and totally messes with your perception of reality in the best way possible. Like, are you dreaming with Dae-ho, or is Dae-ho dreaming with you?

Speaking of mind games, there’s this mysterious character, played by the ever-so-charming Park Yoo-chun (apparently a former K-pop star – whoa!), who can not only enter Dae-ho’s dreams but also jump into other people’s heads! Think dream-hopping like it’s a tourist destination. This adds a whole new layer of mystery and, let’s be honest, major creep factor. Who can you trust in the dream world, anyway?

But hold on, it’s not all about mind games and dream fights (although, those are pretty epic). The movie has a real emotional core that had me tearing up. Go Soo absolutely kills it as the grieving father clinging to any hope he can find. His desperation and unwavering determination to find his son were so raw and powerful. There’s a scene where he confronts a suspect in a dream – the raw intensity and vulnerability in his performance deserve all the awards.

The plot itself was like a puzzle inside a maze – the deeper you go, the more intricate it becomes. What I adore about “Lucid Dream” is its ability to keep you guessing while exploring the vast, untapped realms of the human mind.

But here’s the kicker, the way this movie played with the concept of lucid dreaming to solve a mystery? Brilliant. It’s like giving us a ticket to the most exclusive show inside our minds and reminding us of the power and potential of our subconscious. Every twist, every turn, I was there for it, eating up every clue, every revelation.

Now, is the movie perfect? Not quite. The plot gets a little tangled at times, and some of the dream mechanics explanations felt a bit flimsy. But hey, it’s a movie about lucid dreaming – a little ambiguity just adds to the trippy fun, right?

Still, “Lucid Dream” is a mind-blowing blend of action, suspense, and emotional depth, all wrapped up in a visually stunning dreamscape. So if you’re looking for a movie that will challenge your perception of reality and make you question your own dreams (wait…did I dream that or did it really happen?), then this is a must-watch.

Sweet Dreams! 😴💤
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 137! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hi friends!

Today we’re taking a trip down memory lane to 2002 with the cult classic, “Dog Soldiers.” This movie is like a glorious mishmash of genres: action, horror, and a healthy dose of British humor. Yeah, I know, it’s a bit of a throwback to 2002, but let me tell you, this movie still packs a punch! Or should I say, a bite? 😜

First off, the plot? Absolutely bonkers in the best way possible. Imagine this: a group of British soldiers are dropped into the Scottish Highlands for what they think is a routine training exercise. But oh boy, were they wrong. They stumble upon the remains of a Special Ops squad and soon find themselves hunted by werewolves. Yes, you heard that right. Werewolves in Scotland. Talk about a bad day at the office, right?

Let’s just say things escalate quickly. Limbs get ripped off (think “Evil Dead” levels of gore, just FYI), witty one-liners are exchanged amidst the chaos (seriously, some of the lines in this movie are pure gold), and the body count starts rising faster than the full moon.

The cast is a mix of tough-as-nails characters and some surprisingly deep emotional moments. Sean Pertwee plays Sergeant Harry Wells, and he’s just the kind of leader you’d want in a fight against furry nightmares. Then there’s Kevin McKidd as Private Cooper, a tough guy with a heart, which, you know, adds a nice touch of humanity to the blood and guts. The chemistry between the soldiers is spot on, giving off major “we’re in this together” vibes that I’m totally here for. As they face down ferocious werewolves, they learn to rely on each other, cracking jokes and forming an unlikely bond. It’s like “The Expendables” meets “An American Werewolf in London,” and it somehow works beautifully.

One thing I adore about “Dog Soldiers” is its blend of horror and dark humor. It’s like, one minute you’re on the edge of your seat, biting your nails as a werewolf lunges from the shadows, and the next, you’re chuckling at a one-liner that’s so perfectly timed, it should be illegal. Neil Marshall really knew what he was doing, mixing scares with laughs in a way that doesn’t feel forced. Kudos, Neil!

Speaking of the werewolves themselves, they’re not your typical Hollywood CGI creations. Remember, this was early 2000s, so CGI was there but not like today. No, these are practical effects monsters, all snarls, claws, and impressive agility. It adds a certain rawness to the film that makes the scares feel real, and let’s be honest, sometimes a bit of old-school monster magic is just what the doctor ordered.

But okay, confession time. I have a soft spot for films that don’t take themselves too seriously while still delivering a solid story. “Dog Soldiers” hits that sweet spot like a dart in a bullseye. It’s got heart, horror, cheesiness and humor, all wrapped up in a kilt and thrown into the Scottish Highlands.

“Dog Soldiers” isn’t trying to be a profound cinematic experience. It’s pure, unadulterated entertainment, and it delivers. It’s got action sequences that will have you at the edge of your seat, enough gore to satisfy even the most jaded horror fan, and enough humor to keep you chuckling throughout.

So, if you’re in the mood for a little horror nostalgia or just want to see some werewolves terrorize the Scottish Highlands (and who wouldn’t?), give “Dog Soldiers” a watch. Trust me, it’s a howling good 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 136! 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 decided to dive into the 2019 rom-com “Plus One,” directed by the duo Jeff Chan and Andrew Rhymer. So there I was, snuggled up on my couch, ready to be swept off my feet by some cinematic love story magic, and what do I get? Well, let’s just say my popcorn was the highlight of my evening.

The movie follows long-time friends Ben and Alice, played by Jack Quaid (yes, the son of Dennis Quaid and Meg Ryan, talk about Hollywood royalty genes!) and Maya Erskine (you might know her from “PEN15,” which, by the way, is hilariously awkward in the best way). They hatch a plan to survive wedding season by being each other’s plus-ones to avoid the dreadful singles tables. I mean, the concept itself isn’t exactly groundbreaking, but I was here for it, ready to be charmed and laugh my socks off.

But here’s the kicker, folks – I found it to be just… okay. And by okay, I mean it teetered on the edge of the yawning abyss of boredom. You’ve got your standard rom-com recipe: mix two friends, sprinkle in some weddings, add a dash of romantic tension, bake under the “will they, won’t they” trope, and voila! Yet, somehow, it lacked the spices that make your heart do the salsa dance.

Don’t get me wrong, there were parts I enjoyed. The wedding scenes were like flipping through a bridal magazine, dreaming of open bars and dancing. And there were a couple of chuckles here and there, thanks to some witty lines and awkward situations that are the bread and butter of rom-coms.

But, and it’s a big but, I just wasn’t feeling the chemistry between Ben and Alice. It was like watching two really good actors… acting. You know what I mean? When you can almost see the cogs turning in their heads, reminding them to look longingly into each other’s eyes? It just didn’t click for me.

I mean “Plus One” was a decent way to pass the time, but it won’t be making my list of all-time favorite rom-coms anytime soon. It was a little too predictable and formulaic for my taste, but I can appreciate the solid performances and the occasional laugh-out-loud moment. If you’re in the mood for a light, fluffy movie that won’t require too much brain power, then sure, give it a watch. But if you’re looking for something truly original and groundbreaking, you might want to keep searching.

Ciao for now!
Roger