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 269! 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 finally got around to watching “Time Lapse,” and let me tell you, it’s one of those movies that makes you question every choice you’ve ever made. Seriously, it’s a hidden gem from 2014, directed by Bradley King. It’s his debut film, and honestly, I’m here wondering why it didn’t make a bigger splash when it came out.

The plot? Oh, it’s a doozy. Imagine this: three friends, Finn, Callie, and Jasper, stumble upon a giant, bizarre camera in their deceased neighbor’s apartment. But it’s not just any camera. This bad boy takes pictures 24 hours into the future. Yep, you heard that right. Instead of memories, you’re snapping future moments. Naturally, they do what any of us would—use it to try to rig the outcomes of races and get rich. But as you can guess, things start spiraling out of control real fast.

Danielle Panabaker plays Callie, and she’s absolutely stellar. There’s something so relatable yet mysterious about her portrayal. Then there’s Matt O’Leary as Finn, who’s basically the glue holding the trio together, and George Finn as Jasper, who, well, let’s just say he gets a tad too into the betting game. The dynamics between these three? It’s like watching a slow-motion car crash—you can’t look away even though you know it’s gonna end in disaster.

What really hooks you is how the movie plays with the idea of destiny. It’s like, do we really want to know what tomorrow holds? And if we do, what are we willing to do with that knowledge? The tension just builds and builds, and watching their plans unravel is like watching a house of cards in a breeze—fascinating but nerve-wracking!

And the aesthetic of the film, oh boy, it complements the story perfectly. The camera itself looks like something out of a steampunk dream, and the setting, mostly being their apartment complex, adds this claustrophobic vibe that just amplifies the whole suspense thing they’ve got going on.

The film doesn’t just stop at being a cool sci-fi story, though. It dives deep into the ethics of it all. Like, what happens when you try to control fate? How does knowing the future impact your present? It’s pretty deep stuff, tucked neatly into an indie sci-fi wrapper. And the ending? No spoilers, but it’ll leave you staring at the screen, mouth agape, mind racing.

So, if you’ve got an evening to spare and you’re in the mood for something that’ll keep you glued to your seat and maybe keep you up a bit later than usual mulling over your life choices, “Time Lapse” is your ticket. It’s more than just a movie; it’s a philosophical quandary wrapped in a thriller, delivered with a solid dose of indie flair.

Catch ya 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 268! 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 decided to watch “Click,” that 2006 comedy-drama directed by Frank Coraci, and let me tell you, I absolutely loved it! It’s one of those movies that makes you laugh, then unexpectedly hits you right in the feels.

“Click” stars Adam Sandler as Michael Newman, this overworked family guy who’s just trying to climb the career ladder while hoping to spend more time with his family. He stumbles upon a universal remote at Bed Bath & Beyond, given to him by this eccentric and mysterious guy named Morty, played by the ever-amazing Christopher Walken. The remote is no ordinary gadget—it controls time and space in Michael’s life, letting him pause, fast-forward, and rewind life events.

Now, the concept itself is super intriguing, right? I mean, who hasn’t wished for a remote like that during a painfully boring meeting or a family dinner that’s going south? But as Michael soon finds out, messing with time has some serious consequences. His journey of skipping the “boring” parts of life really made me think about how every moment counts. It’s kind of deep for a comedy, but that’s what makes it stand out!

As much as I enjoyed the whimsical elements, it quickly hits home when he “fast-forwards” to a future that he would much rather have avoided. It’s like those awkward moments when you look back and think, “Wow, I could’ve done that better!” The story hits major emotional notes, especially as Michael starts realizing the value of time and the importance of cherishing each moment. I felt a tingling in my heart thinking about how often we take our loved ones for granted.

Adam Sandler delivers a surprisingly heartfelt performance, which is a bit of a shift from his usual slapstick comedy. Kate Beckinsale, who plays his wife Donna, is just wonderful. She brings this warmth and depth to her character that balances out Michael’s sometimes goofy antics. Oh, and the scenes with their kids? Totally adorable and so, so real.

But don’t get me wrong! This film isn’t just about sappy moments and lessons learned. It’s sprinkled with that classic Sandler humor that makes you LOL in the midst of the deeper themes. The banter, the absurd situations—like, who hasn’t wished that they could hit pause when the in-laws arrive for a surprise visit?

One of the things I really dig about this movie is how it mixes humor with life lessons without being too preachy. And the special effects? They’re pretty cool for its time. Watching Michael fast-forward through his life is both hilarious and a bit heartbreaking. The way the film plays with the concept of time is not only entertaining but also quite thought-provoking.

I think the most striking thing about “Click,” aside from its comedic genius mixed with emotional gravity, is the underlying message about how we often rush through life only to find ourselves yearning for what we left behind. It’s like that moment when you realize you spent too much time staring at your screen instead of enjoying real-life conversations. Kind of hits you in the gut, doesn’t it?

So yeah, “Click” is more than just your average Adam Sandler comedy. It’s a film that makes you laugh, makes you think, and might even make you tear up a bit. I think it’s one of those movies that everyone should watch at least once.

If you haven’t seen “Click,” definitely give it a go—it might just change the way you look at your TV remote!

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

Hey friends!

So, like, last night I was in this mood, you know? The kind where you just want to curl up with a scary movie and freak yourself out for fun. Naturally, I perused the usual suspects—The Exorcist, The Shining. But then I stumbled across something that really made me do a double-take: a 2015 remake of Poltergeist. Say what? Mind blown. How had I missed this? Now, I’m a HUGE fan of the original 1982 classic (seriously, I’ve watched it more times than I can count), so I was intrigued to see what this remake had to offer.

Now, you gotta understand, I was totally in the mood for something that could give me the chills. The original 1982 “Poltergeist” was like a masterpiece in my book, and I stumbled upon this newer version by pure chance. But anyway, given my slightly morbid (read: masochistic) craving for some spooky stuff, I thought, “Why not?” But truth be told, I had, like, zero expectations. And, spoiler alert, my spidey sense was spot-on. This remake didn’t exactly rock my spooky socks off. It wasn’t quite the hair-raising experience I was hoping for.

Now, if you haven’t seen it, here’s the scoop. The story pretty much follows the classic setup: a family moves into a suburban home, only to find out it’s haunted by some seriously angry spirits. The ghosts are like the worst kind of house guests, causing all sorts of mayhem, and ultimately, they kidnap the family’s youngest daughter, Madison. The family then has to battle it out with the otherworldly squatters to get her back.

The plot sticks reasonably close to the original, but it felt a bit rushed, which might be why the scares didn’t really land. One thing about the original Poltergeist is that it takes its time sinking you into that creepy atmosphere. You feel the dread build up slowly. Here, it’s like, halfway through your popcorn, the spooky dial is turned up, and then level down, like a chaotic rollercoaster that’s more dizzying than frightening.

Acting-wise, Sam Rockwell and Rosemarie DeWitt play the bewildered parents, and they do what they can with the script. I mean, Sam Rockwell is usually the guy you can count on to bring some heavy artillery when it comes to acting, but even he couldn’t lift this movie out of the “meh” zone. The kids, especially Kennedi Clements, who plays Madison, are alright, but let’s be real, no one can top Carol Anne’s chilling performance in the original. That girl was in a league of her own.

If there was an MVP here, it was probably Jared Harris, playing Carrigan Burke, a somewhat quirky TV ghost hunter brought in to solve the family’s supernatural dilemma. He’s got this cool charisma about him and delivers lines with this dry wit that tickles your funny bone even amidst the chaos. It was much needed, let me tell you.

Now, for the spooky stuff. If you’re like me and the original had you peeking through your fingers, you might find yourself just staring blankly at the screen this time around. It’s not that it’s bad, it’s just… it’s like they took the original, scrubbed off the eerie vibes, and slapped on a bunch of CGI ghosts in hopes that it would do the trick. Spoiler alert: it didn’t. Sure, the special effects were impressive, but honestly, most of the scares felt like cheap jump scares and didn’t really stick with me. Maybe I’ve been desensitized by too many horror films or maybe the remake just missed the mark. Even the infamous clown scene felt more like an afterthought. Sad, right?

What’s funny is that even though the movie didn’t scare the bejeezus out of me, I did find myself kinda enjoying some parts. Like, the whole otherworld dimension they show is pretty cool visually, even if it’s not as dark or mysterious as it could have been.

So yeah, the 2015 “Poltergeist” was an entertaining watch, but in my ever so humble opinion, it paled in comparison to the original. It lacked the suspense, the psychological terror, and the sheer creepiness that made the 1982 film so iconic. It’s a decent choice if you’re looking for a few jump scares (maybe) and some spooky visuals, but if you’re expecting a truly terrifying experience, you might be disappointed. It just didn’t leave me with that lingering sense of unease that a good horror movie should. Stick with the original, my friends.

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 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