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

Okay friends, buckle up for a wild ride through my brain after diving headfirst into the 2009 mind-bender, “Mr. Nobody.” Directed by the Belgian genius, Jaco Van Dormael, this movie is like a fever dream sprinkled with sequins and existential dread. ‍✨

First off, the plot! Imagine being at the crossroads of your life, but instead of choosing one path, you get to see ’em all. That’s what happens to Nemo Nobody, played by the ever-so-dreamy Jared Leto. He’s the last mortal on Earth, chilling in 2092 at a ripe old age of 118, and let me tell you, the man’s got stories to tell.

He recounts his life, or rather, lives, to a curious young journalist. The movie is like a giant puzzle, where each piece is a different life path that Nemo could’ve taken. Talk about indecision! I can barely pick what socks to wear in the morning, and here’s Nemo, juggling lifetimes like they’re hot potatoes.

Turns out, little Nemo witnessed his parents’ break-up at age 9, and boom! His life splits into three main paths, each with its own rollercoaster of love, loss, and, well, everything in between. Imagine if every time you faced a big decision, instead of choosing one path, you just…poof! Three new yous appear, living out all the possibilities. The plot itself is a labyrinth of choices and consequences. We zip through alternate realities like Nemo’s flipping channels on a cosmic TV. Sounds trippy, right?

Jared Leto is a chameleon in this movie, folks. He jumps from one life to another, changing personas like I change TV channels. And the emotions – oh boy! One minute you see him as a love-struck teen, and the next, he’s a grizzled old man with a lifetime of regrets. The range is incredible, like trying to choose between chocolate and vanilla ice cream and ending up with a flavor that’s somehow both.

And the ladies in Nemo’s life – they’re like different flavors of life lessons. There’s Elise, played by the fantastic Sarah Polley, who’s dealing with some serious mental health issues. Watching their story unfold is like riding a bike with no handlebars – thrilling but kinda scary. Then there’s Jeanne, played by Linh-Dan Pham, a sweet but complicated relationship that makes you think about all the what-ifs. And lastly, Anna, the one that got away, or did she? Diane Kruger brings such depth to the role, it’s like watching a sunset – beautiful and a bit sad.

I gotta admit, my head spun like a washing machine on high speed at times. This movie is not for the faint of heart or those seeking a linear narrative. You gotta strap on your thinking cap and embrace the ambiguity. But here’s the thing: even though it’s confusing AF, it’s also breathtakingly beautiful. The visuals are a kaleidoscope of color and dreamlike surrealism. It’s like they took my dreams, added some extra surreal sauce, and put it on the big screen. The scenes are so visually stunning; it’s like being in an art gallery with a really good AC system – cool and awe-inspiring.

Now, let me drop a fun fact bomb on you: did you know that “Mr. Nobody” uses the butterfly effect as a central theme? Yep, that idea that a small change can cause a huge impact somewhere else. Like when I decide to have an extra cup of coffee and suddenly, I’m rearranging my entire living room at 2 AM.

But it’s not all rainbows and butterflies. The movie can get super complex, and sometimes it feels like you need a PhD in “Nemo Nobody-ology” to get it. There were moments when I was as lost as a GPS with no signal. But hey, that’s part of the charm, right?

“Mr. Nobody” isn’t just about alternate realities, though. It’s about love, loss, regret, and the choices we make that shape our lives. It’s about the beauty and the heartbreak of possibility. Did Nemo make the right choices? Does it even matter? In the end, the movie leaves you pondering the very nature of existence, which, let’s be honest, is kind of mind-blowing in itself.

So yeah, “Mr. Nobody” is a wild, mind-bending journey. It’s like a philosophical rollercoaster that makes you question life, love, and the universe. It’s not your typical Friday night flick, but if you’re up for a challenge that’s more confusing than my aunt’s lasagna recipe, give it a watch!

Whether you love it or hate it, it’s definitely a movie that sticks with you, like that catchy song you can’t get out of your head. 🎶

Until tomorrow, keep watching and stay quirky! ✌️💫
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 59. 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 Emerald Fennell’s 2023 film, ‘Saltburn,’ and oh boy, do I have thoughts! This flick has been getting a lot of buzz lately so I was pretty hyped going in. 🤯 So let’s chat about this quirky, oddball masterpiece that’s left me both baffled and totally bewitched.

First off, the story follows this working class bloke named Oliver (Barry Keoghan) who gets accepted to a fancy Oxford college on a scholarship. He’s the classic fish-out-of-water, sticking out among the posh crowd like a sore thumb. But then he meets this rich pretty boy aristocrat named Felix (Jacob Elordi) and with a life that’s like something out of a fantasy novel – or maybe a fever dream? 😅 — and they become besties, leading Oliver to get invited to Felix’s family’s giant mansion for the summer break.

So, our boy Oliver is whisked away to this grand estate, Saltburn, and let me tell you, it’s like stepping into a carnival of aristocracy. Of course, Oliver is super out of his element hanging with the upper crust Catton family. Felix’s relatives are all classic eccentric aristocrats – booze-soaked mum, mad dad, nymphomaniac sister and an American cousin who’s actually English/Nigerian/Swiss, played by Archie Madekwe.

At first, Oliver struggles to fit in with their lavish lifestyle and vaguely sinister vibe. But he eventually seems to get the hang of things and starts relishing being part of their world.

That is until some dark secrets get unearthed and everything goes bonkers! I won’t spoil any deets but let’s just say the twists come hard and fast in the last half of this movie. 😱 Parts of it felt almost campy with how insane it gets. I was living for all the drama tbh! The ending especially is totally wild and off the walls. My jaw was on the floor. 😮

The vibe of ‘Saltburn‘ is like a mixtape of ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley,’ ‘Wild Things,’ and ‘The Riot Club,’ but with its own unique flavor. It’s funny, sometimes unintentionally so, like that scene where Oliver drinks bathwater – I mean, come on, that’s comedy gold right there! 😂 Fennell balances the rich-folk nastiness with a human touch, especially with Felix, who’s more than just a pretty (and wealthy) face.

Now, the acting – oh la la! Barry Keoghan absolutely kills it, especially in that nude dance scene. Trust me, it’s a scene you won’t forget anytime soon. Jacob Elordi charms the socks off with his rich-boy drawl, and Rosamund Pike? She’s simply ageless and brings depth to her character, Elspeth.

But here’s the thing – the third act is a wild ride of disbelief suspension. Elspeth’s motives are as clear as mud, and the butler, who’s like a human CCTV camera, somehow misses all the red flags. The film dances on the edge of fantasy, making you question everything you thought you knew.

Emerald Fennell, hats off to you! ‘Saltburn‘ is a twisted tale of obsession, dark humor, and excess. Visually the movie looked great at least. Major props to Emerald Fennell for nailing the fancy aristocratic aesthetic with the costumes, sets, cinematography etc. I was drooling over the fancy country manor home! 🤤 And that stunning ocean cliff backdrop? Beyond gorgeous. Oh, and Fennell’s writing is sharp as a tack; there’s a witty zinger in almost every scene.

My only niggle is that the characters could’ve been developed a little more deeply. They came off a bit one-dimensional at times. Like Felix for instance – he’s just portrayed as a typical posh pretty boy without much complexity. And Oliver’s motivations were hard to grasp…is he an innocent victim or sly manipulator?? The unclear characterizations made it hard for me to fully connect at times.

Don’t get me wrong though, the cast all acted their butts off, especially Rosamund Pike! Girl is a legend. It was more an issue with the way the roles were written.

Watching ‘Saltburn‘ was like going to an art gallery where every painting is more bizarre and captivating than the last. It’s a film that’s both a head-scratcher and a heart-racer. It’s not perfect, but it’s a cinematic experience that’s as unforgettable as it is unclassifiable.

Catch ya 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 58. 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 film called “Status Update,” directed by none other than Scott Speer, and I gotta tell you, it was quite the experience. First off, you know I’m a sucker for anything with a touch of magical realism – it’s like my movie kryptonite. And let me tell you, “Status Update” delivers that in spades!

The story? Oh, it’s wild. 🌀 It’s about this teenager, Kyle (played by Ross Lynch – hello, heartthrob alert! 🚨), who’s trying to navigate the choppy waters of high school after moving to a new town. Trust me, we’ve all been there, right? The cringe, the drama, the awkwardness — it’s all in there. But then, things take a turn for the magical when Kyle discovers this crazy app that makes whatever he posts on it come true. Like, imagine if every time you tweeted about wanting pizza, it just appeared. 🍕 Magic, right?

Now, let’s talk about the acting. Ross Lynch, who you might remember from “Austin & Ally” (nostalgia alert!), totally nails the role of Kyle. He’s got this boy-next-door charm that just works. And then there’s Olivia Holt as Dani, the love interest. She’s not just a pretty face; her character adds depth to the story. Plus, the chemistry between these two? Totally adorable. You can’t help but root for them.

But wait, there’s more! We’ve got Gregg Sulkin playing the high school bad boy, Derek. You might recognize him from “Wizards of Waverly Place” (throwback!). He’s the kind of guy you love to hate, but can’t help but find intriguing. 😈

The plot twists and turns like a crazy taxi ride through the city. 😜 Every time Kyle posts a new status, something unexpected happens. It’s a whirlwind of events that just keeps you guessing. The movie does a great job at showing how what we wish for might not always be what we need. Deep, right?

Now, for the humor. It’s sprinkled throughout like the perfect amount of seasoning. There’s this one scene where Kyle wishes to be a great singer, and the result is hilariously perfect. You’ve got to see it to believe it. It’s moments like these that make the film a delightful watch.

But hey, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The movie also touches on some real issues, like the pressure of social media and the quest for instant gratification. It’s kinda eye-opening, making you think twice before you hit that ‘post’ button.

So yeah, “Status Update” is a fun ride with a sprinkle of magic and a dash of reality. It’s not just a movie; it’s a little reminder of how we navigate our desires and the consequences that come with them. It made me laugh, it made me think, and hey, it even had me wishing for my own magical app.

So, that’s my two cents on “Status Update.” If you love a bit of magic in your movies and a story that’s relatable yet fantastical, give it a watch. And remember, be careful what you wish for!

Catch you tomorrow, movie buffs! 🎬✨
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 57. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Agoraphobia and Imaginary BFFs: “Lost Inside”

Hey Friends,

Buckle up for a movie review that’s gonna hit you like a warm slice of pepperoni on a bad anxiety day. I’m talkin’ about “Lost Inside,” this 2022 indie flick that snuck up on me and gave my feels a good ol’ rollercoaster ride.

So, picture this: Benji, our protagonist, is basically a rockstar hermit. Dude hasn’t stepped outside his apartment in five years, thanks to a major case of agoraphobia that’s turned his world into the size of his shoebox-sized kitchen. Enter Sylvia, the perky new neighbor who’s like a ray of sunshine in Benji’s dusty existence. But guess what? She’s not the only new face – there’s also Jordan, Benji’s imaginary rockstar bestie who looks suspiciously like Ryan Reynolds and dispenses snarky wisdom in equal measure.

What really got me hooked was how “Lost Inside” tackled mental health. It wasn’t preachy or sugarcoated – it just dropped you right into Benji’s shoes, letting you feel the panic attacks, the crippling self-doubt, the whole shebang. And let me tell you, Spencer Scruggs absolutely nails it. This dude carries the movie on his hunched shoulders, making Benji both pathetic and endearing, lost and lovable. Plus, Serra Naiman as Sylvia is a breath of fresh air, all sunshine and sass. ☀️

As for the imaginary Jordan? Well, let’s just say Ryan Reynolds would be proud. His quips are sharp enough to cut diamonds, and his bromance with Benji is one for the history books. They’re like the Thelma and Louise of agoraphobia, driving their metaphorical anxiety-mobile straight into the face of fear.

One thing that really stuck with me is how the film shows the tiny victories. It’s not about some grand cure-all moment; it’s about taking a baby step outside, having movie night in your hallway, and maybe, just maybe, letting someone in.

Yeah, there were some wobbly bits – the pacing dragged a tad in the middle, and the ending felt a smidge predictable. But hey, who needs a perfectly predictable sunset when you’ve got a messy, honest sunrise filled with self-discovery?

So, if you’re looking for a movie that’s gonna make you laugh, cry, and maybe even order takeout, do yourself a favor and check out “Lost Inside.” It’s a quirky, heartwarming gem that’ll remind you that even when you’re lost in your own head, there’s always a way out, and sometimes, the best company you can have is a sarcastic imaginary rockstar who helps you to keep it real.

Until next time, stay weird and keep chasing those tiny victories,

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 56. 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 curled up to watch “Anthem of a Teenage Prophet,” directed by Robin Hays. The film kicks off with a bang, and I was instantly hooked. The plot revolves around this teenager, Luke, who predicts the death of his best friend, and then, bam! It actually happens. Talk about a chilling start, right? Cameron Monaghan, who I totally adored in Gotham (he was the bomb as Jerome, am I right?), plays Luke. He brings this intense, broody vibe to the character that’s just spot on. His performance? Chef’s kiss! 👌

Luke has to decide what to do with this apparent gift/curse he’s been given. Should he try to prevent the tragedies he foresees? Or is it hopeless to try and change fate? You know, typical “great power, great responsibility” stuff.

Now, here’s where things get a bit… yawn-worthy. The middle of the movie slows down to a crawl. It’s like, we get it, Luke’s life is turned upside down, but do we need to watch him mope around for what feels like an eternity? I found myself checking my phone, wondering if watching paint dry would be more exciting. Spoiler alert: it probably would be. 😴

But hey, it’s not all doom and gloom. The actors really do their best with what they’re given. Like I said earlier, I’m a big Cameron Monaghan fan, and he brought a ton of emotion to Luke’s character. Peyton List plays Faith, Luke’s love interest, and she’s just adorable. Their chemistry is like watching two puppies play – totally cute but kinda predictable, you know?

The film picks up towards the end, though, just when I thought I might doze off. The climax is intense, and the ending ties things up in a neat little bow, leaving you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. So, kudos to the team for pulling that off!

Let’s talk about the emotions, shall we? This movie had me feeling all sorts of things. I was intrigued, bored, and then totally moved, all within a span of two hours. It’s like going on a date that starts with great conversation, then your date spends an hour talking about their stamp collection, but then saves it with an amazing dessert. Mixed feelings, much?

To wrap this up, “Anthem of a Teenage Prophet” is like that one friend who tells a story that’s super interesting at the beginning and end, but kinda loses you in the middle. Would I recommend it? Sure, if you’re a fan of Monaghan or into teenage angst with a supernatural twist. Just maybe have your phone handy for the middle part.

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

‘Book Club’ – A Hilarious Take on Love, Life, and Literature! 😂📚”

Hey there, friends!

So, I finally got around to watching “Book Club,” and let me tell you, it’s like stumbling upon a hidden gem in your grandma’s attic – quirky, delightful, and unexpectedly hilarious! Directed by Bill Holderman, this 2018 flick is a refreshing take on love, life, and, well, book clubs, but not your average ones.

The plot? Oh, you’re in for a treat! Imagine this: Four lifelong friends – Diane (played by the ever-graceful Diane Keaton), Vivian (the ever-spunky Jane Fonda), Sharon (the wonderfully witty Candice Bergen), and Carol (the charmingly down-to-earth Mary Steenburgen) – all in their later years, decide to spice up their monthly book club. And their choice? “Fifty Shades of Grey.” Yeah, you heard that right! 😆 It’s like watching your favorite aunts read that book and then seeing their lives turn upside down.

What unfolds is a series of events that are both heartwarming and laugh-out-loud funny. Diane Keaton, as Diane (I know, right? Talk about keeping it simple!), is recently widowed and her daughters are overly protective. She’s kind of like that elegant swan who’s just learning to spread her wings again – and it’s adorable and awkward all at once.

Then there’s Vivian, Jane Fonda’s character. She’s this hotel magnate who’s never settled down because, you know, commitment issues. Jane Fonda absolutely kills it in this role – she’s like that cool aunt who always has the best stories and the sassiest comebacks.

Candice Bergen as Sharon is a federal judge, and get this – she’s venturing into the wild world of online dating. The scenes where she’s navigating dating apps are just gold. I mean, who wouldn’t swipe right for a judge, right? 🤣

And Mary Steenburgen as Carol is trying to rekindle the romance in her marriage. It’s sweet, charming, and has its own set of cringe-worthy moments. Watching her trying to seduce her husband with dance moves is something I didn’t know I needed in my life.

The beauty of “Book Club” lies in its relatable humor and the genuine chemistry among the cast. It’s like watching a group of friends who’ve known each other for ages – their banter, their support for each other, it’s all so real. Plus, the movie doesn’t shy away from the realities of aging, relationships, and the desire to remain relevant – which is kinda deep when you think about it.

And, here’s a fun fact: Did you know that Jane Fonda was 80 years old during the filming of this movie? Talk about age being just a number! 🌟

Now, let’s not forget the humor. There are scenes that will have you spitting out your popcorn in laughter. Like, imagine discussing “Fifty Shades” with your book club and then trying to apply those, um, ‘lessons’ to your love life. Yeah, that kind of funny.

“Book Club” is more than just a comedy. It’s a story about friendship, about not being defined by age, and about finding love and excitement at any stage of life. It’s a reminder that life, much like a good book, always has something new to offer, no matter which chapter you’re in.

So, grab your popcorn, maybe hide from your younger relatives (because, you know, those scenes), and enjoy this delightful romp. You’ll laugh, you’ll empathize, and who knows, maybe even get inspired to join a book club yourself! 😄

Keep smiling and keep watching,
Roger

P.S. Stay fabulous, just like our leading ladies! 💃🌟

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

” Just Cruised Down ‘Story Ave’ and Here’s the Lowdown!”

Hey movie buffs,

So, I just got back from a cinematic stroll down ‘Story Ave,’ and man oh man, do I have thoughts! 🍿✨ Directed by the up-and-coming Arya Ghavamian, this isn’t your average film that you can just Netflix and zone out to. Nope, it demands your full attention – so naturally, I obliged with a large bucket of popcorn in hand (salted, not sweet, because I’m not a monster).

First off, let’s set the scene. This is not a quick skim through a picture book, but more like a deep dive into a profound short story that leaves you thinking long after you’ve closed the cover.

The plot? It’s a gritty coming-of-age tale that’s as raw as it is poetic. The story follows a teenage graffiti artist on the streets of the Bronx who’s juggling the whole shebang of youthful angst and a yearning for artistic expression. He finds himself at a crossroads (quite literally) that could change his life forever. The title, ‘Story Ave,’ isn’t just a slick name – it’s an actual street in the Bronx which becomes a pivotal point in our main guy’s life.

Now, about the feels. This film packs them. The emotional weight carried in such a short time is the kind of gym workout for your tear ducts you didn’t know you needed. There’s a sense of authenticity here that you can’t help but appreciate. You can tell Ghavamian has poured a bit of soul into this one. It’s like he took a slice of the Bronx, served it up on-screen, and said, “Here, taste this.”

Performance-wise, the cast deserves a standing ovation – or at least a very enthusiastic slow clap. Our lead actor – and sorry, no spoilers here – delivered a punch. There’s this one scene that’s so raw, it’s like watching a live wire sparking in the rain. Kudos to the entire cast for making every moment feel like a peek into real lives, not just a story being told.

Cinematography? It’s on point. The camera dances through the streets, catching the vibrant urban life and the grey areas where our protagonist’s life unfolds. It’s not just a backdrop, it’s a character in its own right. And the graffiti, oh boy, it’s not just vandalism, it’s the bloodline of the narrative, pulsating with every spray can hiss and every color splash on the wall.

Now, let’s rap about the soundtrack because what’s a stroll without some tunes, right? The music is as much a part of the journey as the sidewalk under your feet. It’s a mix that’s both haunting and thumping, setting the pace for our protagonist’s footsteps and our racing hearts.

So, should you watch ‘Story Ave‘? If you’re into films that make you feel, think, and maybe want to pick up a can of spray paint (legally, of course), then yes. It’s a short trip, but one worth taking. It might not be the blockbuster with all the bells and whistles, but it’s a story that resonates with the heartbeat of the Bronx and the echoes of dreams that are both lost and found in the concrete jungle.

In the grand spectrum of movie experiences, ‘Story Ave’ might be a smaller blip, but oh, it’s a bright one. So, check it out, and let me know if it struck a chord with you, too.

‘Til next time, keep it reel!

Peace out, 🎥✌️

Roger