Velma- Season 2

NOTE: This review doesn't spoil anything this season, but there are a couple sentences that are kinda a spoiler for last season.

6.5/10

In season two, Velma (voiced by The Office/The Mindy Project's Mindy Kaling) tries to catch a serial killer targeting men.

There does seem to be an effort by the writers not to be quite as aggressive with the material that turned off viewers, however it does feel like just a 10% reduction. You've still got Velma being judgey and mean and political/social and hip modern commentary that does feel like it's being thrown aggressively at the screen, but, still it does feel more natural this time. 

I especially think a lot of the characters are more likable this time around. I felt that Fred (Always Sunny in Philadelphia's Glenn Howerton) is funnier and feels more like a character than an over-the-top popular kid/man child. The season manages to expand the characters of Fred's dad William (voiced by original voice of Scooby-Doo's Fred Frank Welker) and Velma's mom  Diya (voiced by The Unicorn's Sarayu Blue). William who was mostly a disapproving father with limited screentime gets fleshed out a little, and he's more fun to be around (though, yeah, there are a lot of rich guy jokes with him). At first, Welker's approach, which was a raspyish, older version of the original Fred voice, didn't work on me, but it's grown. It does have a unique quality. Diya, who's role was more story-driven last time and didn't have time to breath. Here, she turns out to be as ridiculous and fun as most of the other parents.

I also felt the jokes were funnier this time around. Some may complain about the pop jokes, but I felt there were some solid bits.

Though many hate this, I do give the show credit for having a very unique feel that is character-centric, but also high energy weird and wacky. I liked the storyline this season better as the show goes to some pretty weird and unexpected places. (They really go all in on the brains in jars with them just hanging out as regular high school students.) Got to give the show this, it's not boring. One could fault it for repeating the hallucinations storyline, but with Norville (Veep's Sam Richardson) having them this time instead of Velma. However, this part does pay off in the end.

I'd have to say that the strongest part of last season was that the mystery itself was solid. You couldn't figure it out too far ahead of time, and it felt like everything and added up and paid off. This season does this but even stronger. Again, this show knows how to surprise you and there are many twists and turns.

The animation is still strong, continuing with a unique visual style and color scheme, and it's so much more fluid than you'd imagine for a comedy.

Kinda recommended. If you didn't like the first one, it hasn't course-corrected enough to draw you back. I concede that the humor is a mixed-bag, however, but I still had fun. The show is so unpredictable, and the writers do feel like they're enjoying themselves.

Civil War

9/10

This movie follows a group of journalists and photographers as they travel across a United States ravaged by civil war.

First off, the trailers make this more of a film focused on the action and battle movements, while this is actually a more measured piece that focuses on the journalists' journey. This is written and directed by Alex Garland (Ex Machina, Men) and if you've seen his Annihilation, this is kinda the same formula (a group on a journey) minus the sci-fi. When the action happens, it's well executed but the core of the film is a lot of showing and talking about the situation.

Don't confuse this being plot heavy for this being a boring movie. Far from it. This reminds me a lot of The Big Red One in that this is a travelogue looking at the madness of war that is composed of various thematic elements. This movie does a solid job of changing gears from the eeriness of desolate, war-torn America to dark comedy to moments of real tension. Civil War has one of the most gripping, suspense scenes I think I've ever seen.

The main focus of this film is on the musings in the last few years that the United States could go to war. This has a real world message in that an ACTUAL civil war in the United States would be a terrible, bloody thing that'd pretty mess up most people lives. 

For those radicals arguing in favor a civil war, this movie also makes a point that having one in a place as vast as the United States wouldn't be a single concentrated effort. (In this movie we've got factions and smaller rebel groups.) A lot of people may want the Democrats toppled, but how much you wanna bet they all don't have the exact same view on the government that comes after or what they want or what the real threats are? (Did you see the footage of the gathering assembled to stop immigration at the border? There was some infighting between individuals and factions).

The movie also a well-written look at what it is like to be a journalist during war.

Garland makes the scenario audience-friendly (and more importantly audience-money-friendly decision) by not to base this movie off of any real world politics. Texas and California are in an alliance and that ain't happening in the real world (maybe parts of rural California but not all of California). Garland does an interesting job of laying out the hints of how the civil war came without straight up directly telling the audience exactly what went down. 

In terms of visuals and audio, this is pure "cinema." The cinematography is excellent, featuring well-placed camera work and a strong design sense with what is undoubtedly going to be considered one of the most hauntingly beautiful movie scenes of the year. I do not have discerning ears, so audio work doesn't usually stand out to me. Not here, though. I won't go into detail, but prepare for some of the most effective movie sounds in a while.

Kiersten Dunst delivers what is probably one of the best and most distinct performances in her career as main lead photojournalist Lee. She is a cool-headed, hard-headed veteran of war coverage. Dunst really manages to deliver an objective and hardened, but human-beneath-it-all individual. Also really good in this is Dune Part One's Stephen McKinley Henderson as journalist Sammy, the eldest and wisest of the group. I noticed that the guy's stock in in the film world has gone up in the last ten years or so, because he does a quality job as an authoritative but approachable person.

If there any possible flaws to this film, some may find the final act to run a bit long.

Highly recommended, this is such a well-constructed film. Garland delivers his first movie that isn't sci-fi (or whatever genre Men was supposed to be), which has resulted in his most accessible film.

Night Court (2023- )- Season 2

7/10

Season 2 of the Night Court reboot continues to have Judge Abby Stone (played by Big Bang Theory's Melissa Rauch), the daughter of the original show's judge Harry Stone, preside over Night Court and its array of wacky defendants, lawyers, and staff.

This season tries to be more like the original Night Court by focusing more on the defendants and making them wackier. I think I liked the humor better here; it feels like the writers are having more fun. However, if you don't like comedies that are too silly and not grounded, you may not like this much. (There is an episode focusing on British aristocracy that is so painfully one-dimensional. We are regularly exposed to British television these days. We know that's not remotely how they act!)

There are also not as many occasional serious/heartfelt moments (particularly the moments between Abby and defense lawyer Dan Fielding (the original's John Laroquette)) as there were, which I missed.

Laroquette is still the best performance, continuing the character he built up over the years. His uncle-niece-type rapport with Abby remains the load-bearing pillar of the show. I think that the character of Abby still feels a little too much like a try-hard at being a nice person (in comparison to her father who seemed to be nice naturally), however, you can't deny Rauch's enthusiasm in her role.

India de Beaufort as driven but somewhat socially awkward prosecutor Olivia Wilde continues to be the best of the new cast, though I do think they gave her less material to work with this season. Beaufort has this "presence" with her delivery.

They've written sad sack clerk Neil out of the show. I'm not particularly affected by his absence. His actor Kapil Talwalker did a good job, but the character never felt essential and his crush on his superior felt a bit forced and awkward.

Recommended. Not saying NC is the funniest or best written comedy out right now, especially if you don't want your comedy too network simple/broad, but it definitely makes for a fun time-waster with a decent cast.

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire

8/10

In this sequel to Godzilla vs. Kong, King Kong, now living in Hollow Earth, comes across a new threat to the surface world. Meanwhile, something seems to have Godzilla on the move, but what?

This transitions really nicely from the last film by focusing on the Hollow Earth that King Kong has found himself home in. The last couple KK films have focused on the loneliness of finding a place for himself and searching for any remaining members of his kind. His journey is interesting affair as he finally gets to encounter other giant gorillas. He's actually strangely the most appealing character, saying so much without dialogue. He never starts anything in this and just wants to live his life, and you kind of feel for him as has to put up with everyone else just looking for trouble.  

Understand that this is the Kong movie featuring Godzilla. The big G really doesn't do much till the grand finale. Though, it's understandable. I've read that Toho has several rules on what cannot be done with Godzilla (which, given how off-brand the 90's American attempt was, it's understandable). They want him to remain a force of nature, which means ixnay on the human-like facial expressions.

I won't speak much about the main villain here (the first original creation since the Mutos in the first Godzilla film) since their appearance is an Oogie Boogie-style slow burn, but they may be one of the best antagonists in the series, having a fun design and having more personality and being cleverer than other giant monsters.

I've heard complaints about the human subplot (a small group traveling to Hollow Earth in order to find out what's bothering Godzilla), but I'm not seeing it. I felt it was interesting enough. This movie builds a lot more upon the relationship of scientist Ilene Andrews (played by Rebecca Hall) and her adopted daughter Jia (Kaylee Hottle), the last of her tribe, and the now older Jia dealing with her identity. Whereas the last film had the novel decision to have two completely separated groups of heroes for each monster's subplot, this one consolidates the group, dropping several characters. Out of team G, they retained one of the more standout members, podcaster and conspiracy theorist Bernie Hayes (Brian Tyree Henry), whose comical elements seem to have increased a little in this. (I will miss the his other members and am surprised that the guy who leads the monster observing organization Monarch doesn't even have a cameo, but I understand that director Adam Wingard (who also the last film, the most recent Blair Witch, and Your're Next) probably didn't want to oversaturate the story now that it was simpler and more time was needed for Kong's story. On the Kong team's side, they're mostly back, but the scientist guy is replaced with another guy, Trapper (Downton Abbey/the live-action Beauty and the Beast's Dan Stevens). I don't see the reason for the change (the last guy wasn't irreplaceable per se, but he did well and had a good rapport with Ilene and Jia). Trapper serves as the "speaks for the natural order" guy, and he does well enough. Thing is the script has both him and Bernie be the odd, funny guys, and it feels like the movie only needed one. Though, there a few moments where the "weird guys but in different ways"interaction energy pays off.

Course, most people are here for the action, and like the last film, this one delivers. Wingard exercises a little more creativity with the fight choreography and the effects look great. Although, I think that the last film was slightly superior when it came to intensity. However, it also feels like Wingard and the writers really didn't care about putting the monsters out of harms way (even less than last time). If you have issue with rooting for the big G and KK when they are also trampling a lot of people, this might not be for you.

The special effects are even better than last time. The entire look of Hollow Earth might be one of the most impressive science fiction/fantasy landscapes of this decade (real 70's/80's fantasies vibes).

Last thing to say is that like the last movie the epilogue wraps up too quickly. Would've liked a little more explanation.

Highly recommended. Very entertaining and the overall story feels tighter and more interesting than last time.

Road House (2024)

7/10

In this Amazon Prime remake of the classic late 80's Patrick Swayze action flick, former UFC fighter haunted by his past Dalton (played by Jake Gylenhall) is hired to be head bouncer for a Florida road house called the Road House. He soon finds himself at odds with a gang that's trying to get the place to sell.

This is a movie who's creators understood what made the first one popular: being kinda nuts and campy. There is a lot of entertaining well-choreographed brawling with some pretty unexpected moments. 

Another thing they learned from the original was to keep the villains colorful and over-the-top. A highlight is seeing the villains' sheer frustration and occasional fear as Dalton shrugs off their attacks.

Credit should also be given to the movie for not trying too hard to copy and paste from the original (but, alas, no throat ripping).

However, the movie is bogged down a bit by the plot (this didn't need to be a full two hours). We're all here for the action, and I think many will want the Dalton's personal journey scenes to wrap up quicker. Both this and the original film had a dark backstory for the hero and scenes of him getting to know the townsfolk. However, the original knew to keep things more economic with snappier writing. The townsfolk are just okay and the love interest could've been cut (plus the original meetup between her and Dalton is if the writers said "Let's replicate the meetup from the first film but shoddier"). They should've done more with bar owner Frankie (Shrinking's Jessica Williams), who was a solid character but kinda fades out near the end.

Originally the film's strong suit is the various ways the baddies come up with taking out Dalton, but admittedly one of them, which involves a plot element that is added too late in the film, is one too many.

Gylenhall is well cast as the guy who tries to handle things the nice way but woe to anyone who declines. Broad City's Arturo Castro is funny as a surprisingly naive, good-natured member of the gang.

I liked the change of location from Missouri to the photogenic Florida coast. I also like the look of the Road Shack, it's one of those easy-access-to-the-outside affairs you find in perpetually warm climates. 

Recommended. The original is still the superior product (due to that 80's magic that can't be replicated, tighter script, and, of course, the throat ripping), but this is still a pretty entertaining affair. 

Late Night with the Devil

8.5/10

In Late Night with the Devil, Jack Delroy (played by David Dastmalchian), the host of the late night show Night Owls, tries to restore his show's dwindling ratings by having a special Halloween show that includes Lilly D'Abo (Ingrid Torelli), a girl allegedly possessed by a demon.

I think it's been a while since I've seen such a well constructed story. All plot points flow naturally and we are fed information bit by bit. The interesting thing about this film is that it isn't your typical demon possession tale. There is a lot more going on and one is left interested as to what exactly is at play here.

One is kept engaged as to where everything is going and what'll happen next. True scares can be a slow burn often, but that really isn't an issue due to the film's general sense of unease in that Delroy is messing with stuff he shouldn't as well as solid characterization (Delroy's got several guests/show staff with differing agendas and views on the supernatural). 

Only reason I'm not rating this higher is the ending.  It runs a little longer than needed, and it lacks the cohesion and satisfaction of the rest of the film. To the ending's credit, it does show, not tell, however, I would've prefer the info. to be more explained and spoon fed. Part of the fun of this is putting all the clues together, but the movie ends with you asking a lot of "wait, what about?" questions. That having been said, the ending's not an absolute stinker, I've seen vaguer endings, and what occurs is definitely a choice.   

Strong cast in this. Dastmalchian is like Alan Tudyk in that he's one of those character actors who popped up more and more until they just suddenly hit that point where they became a known name that's in demand. (Among other things Dastmalchian was the main villain the MacGyver reboot, the Russian guy in the Ant-Man movies, and Polka-Dot Man in Suicide Squad.) He especially seems to have gotten his foot in movies lately. However, this is the first time he's gotten the main lead, and he kills it as an charming but ratings hungry TV host who also has to carefully navigate strange occurrences and various opinionated members of the show. 

Other highlights of this are Torelli whose Lilly is more uncomfortable when the demon isn't speaking through her, Rhys Auteri as Delroy's affable co-host Gus McConnell, and Fayssal Bazzi as showman psychic Christou.

The movie really encapsulates the feel and look of the 1970's and talk shows. It doesn't feel anachronistic or forced. Budget was clearly small, but the Night Owls' set is pulled off nicely.

Highly recommended. Yes, the finale's not perfect, but the film as a whole is definitely worth a watch. Unfortunately, this is only in limited theaters, the ones that are usually close to or in cities.  If you're not near one of these, this'll be on Shudder in a month, I believe, and if you're not subscribing to that, most films from the streamer appear on DVD/Blu-ray a few months later.

Girls5Eva- Season 3

8.5/10

In season 3, the band Girls5eva  go on tour.

This season is a drastic change as the band members have left their home of New York and each episode takes place in a different location. It is an interesting change that does reinvigorate things a bit. However, I think this might be slightly weaker than the last two seasons. I feel the free-floating structure doesn't give rise to as many strong show business jokes as before. Also, Dawn's goofy, straight-laced husband Scott (played by Billions' Daniel Breaker) is back at home, so he's barely in this and his absence is definitely felt. But, the jokes are still really funny, satirical, and creative. The funny thing about this show is that they'll go for an odd subject of a joke or draw a bit out, and they mostly, surprisingly work. (Though there is one British joke that feels too stereotypically broad for my tastes. I guess jokes that are monarchy/upper-crust accent-based have started to get on my nerves, and Tina Fey created/produced shows are one of the greatest perpetrators. These jokes feel like they were written in the 90's and not-topical. We have so much access to British television that we know they have so many accents and kinda what it's actually like there.)

Unfortunately, the episode-length was cut from an already meager eight episodes to six, leaving one wanting more. (I understand having American dramas reduce their length as they prevent the stories from being drawn out/worn out, but I think all half-episode comedies where the individual episodes are more self-contained should be at least 10 episodes long.)

Though we still haven't gotten a song that is as funny as the fear song from season 1, this season's still got a pretty solid lineup of funny songs with some well written lyrics. 

The four leads remain entertaining. Sara Bareilles, writer and singer of Love Song, gives great delivery as Dawn the most sensible but awkward one, Dawson's Creek's/Cougar Town's Busy Phillips as Summer, the kinda emotionally stunted one, gives the best vocal and nonverbal delivery of the bunch, and Hamilton's Renee Elis Goldsbury continues to be pure, wacky diva as Wickie. I felt Gloria's subplot of her sowing her wild oats and sleeping around was a bit of a nothing burger that wasn't worth it's time. However, former SNL writer Paula Pell is great in everything else as she does as the one who often has to be the voice of reason or in reaction to the others' weirdness or self-destructiveness.

Though we are lacking Scott, his loss is lessened by having Paul (writer/actor John Lutz), who had a small role last season, given much more focus as the band's driver/assistant. Yeah, he's basically doing the awkward character he did in 30 Rock, but he does it so well, and he's given the chance to play it a little weirder. He's especially funny in scenes where he's driving as he does such unexpected stuff.

Highly recommended. The show is still very funny.

Tiny Toons Looniversity: Spring Break

6.5/10

In this spring break special for the Tiny Toons reboot on Cartoon Network/Max (coincidentally or not the original also had a spring break special), the Tiny Toons crew go to visit their families for spring break. 

This is alright. Everything comes together in the end for a satisfying, heartfelt finale and there's some decent humor, but this is a weaker entry when compared to several episodes of the show. For a longer special, it doesn't go big enough. Though Looniversity has some good storylines, the show has become more reliant upon teaching lessons and, due to the university setting, a more grounded use of characters, resulting in more relationship/character oriented stories. One can miss the more free-form stories and comedy of the original.

Kinda recommended. Kids will probably be fine with it. If you like the show, you'd probably be satisfied. 

Imaginary

7.5/10

In Imaginary, Jessica (played by Jurassic World: Dominion's DeWanda Wise) and her husband and two stepdaughters move into her childhood home. The youngest girl Alice (Superkitties/Erin & Aaron's Pyper Braun) finds an old stuffed bear named Chauncey who becomes her new imaginary friend. However, there's something sinister about the bear who begins to have more and more control over poor Alice.

Wasn't expecting much from this movie; Blumhouse didn't give this much advertising. But, this turned out better than expected. This is one of those horror films that is trying to have fun, which is refreshing with so many movies going with the serious psychological horror route.

There are some pretty good scares in the beginning. I've seen so many horror movies that I've become desensitized. I rarely get scared, so it was refreshing to have a couple of the scares get to me. (The film's pretty good at catching you unexpected.)  Also, the film does a surprisingly good job of making a stuffed bear with minimal movement be creepy. The final act isn't as effective in being scary, but it makes up for it by being one of the more visually creative finales to a horror film.

For yet another movie where the child's imaginary friend turns out to be a monster/ghost/demon, the story is told better than most. Jessica makes for a compelling protagonist who's worried about her stepdaughter, and Alice makes for a sympathetic kid.

This is a Jeff Wadlow movie (the Fantasy Island movie, Truth or Dare, Wolf Creek) and this has the flaw I've seen in his other horror movies. Guy has some solid ideas and scenes, but the plots are always uneven. There are parts of this where the dialogue and exposition could've been tighter. 

There's some pretty good casting. Wise in particular is one to watch as she's so convincing. However, there are two actors playing figures connected to Jessica's past that really don't work out.

Recommended. Yeah, this could've been more polished, but this is an entertaining and spooky work.

The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy- Season 1

8/10

In this new animated comedy on Amazon Prime, alien doctors Klak (Nope's Keke Palmer) and Sleech (Everything Everywhere all at Once's Stephanie Hsu), known for breaking the rules, try to find a cure for anxiety.

This is a very creative show. With animation as a medium, you can go much farther with bringing imagination to life. There are so many bizarre, unique aliens in this. (If you have a low weird tolerance, this isn't for you.) The show doesn't really have any humans in this, which makes it a nice change from sci-fi comedies like Tripping the Rift or Futurama. There's no asking yourself why you hear so many topical human references being made by everyone including aliens but not a lot of references to other cultures. The world of SBHitG may have similarities to us but never feels like the writers are copying humans verbatim. 

The jokes are fairly funny (there's also a solid mix of dark and light humor), but I wouldn't say the greatest. It's the stories and overreaching plot points that make this entertaining. The character's lives and the situations they find themselves in is what makes this show. The cast may be wacky but they all have solid flaws, fears, dreams, etc.

I was on the fence for the first episode; too much introduced too quickly. I recommend you stick till the third episode before passing judgment. 

The animation is one those recent adult animation types like you find on Max that kinda look like they were out of an adult indie comic. It hasn't worn out itself out yet and makes a nice relief from super-simplified character designs. The world is very colorful, detailed and distinct.

Palmer is known for usually playing confident characters, so it's nice to see her show her range by doing the opposite and giving a very believable portrayal as a person suffering from anxiety. You know who also surprised me in their performance? Maya Rudolph as Dr. Vlam, an intern and centuries old robot. She gives a completely different and slightly more grounded portrayal than anything she's ever done before. I didn't know it was her until I looked it up.

Recommended. This might be a little too odd for some, but this is a compelling work.

Dune Part Two

8.5/10

In part two of this adaptation of Frank Herbert's novel, exiled space nobleman Paul Atreides (played by Timothee Chalamet) allies himself with the Fremen rebels, who want to wrest control of the planet Arakis back from the Harkonen family.

I liked the first one, but this one is stronger as we get to the payoff and more stuff seems to be happening. As Paul is considered to be a prophet by many Fremen, we get a well-designed look at how religion can be used to control, not to mention the long-term affects of colonialism and how radicalism amongst the natives can develop in response to it.

Overall, this is a mostly well told movie. It's long, but for the first two acts it does a really good job of moving a plot and balancing all the political machinations. Only weak point might be that by the final act, you do have a few characters repeat voicing their goals/concerns a little too much, especially Paul (we get it, you're conflicted by your role as a false prophet.) 

We continue to have a wide cast of interesting characters, old and new. Although, the Harkonen's evilness for the sake of evilness is ramped up to a 100, and they were already really evil. They kill so many of their own people that it gets cartoonish, and it's hard to believe how they don't have any rebellion within their ranks.

Chalamet really sells a character that is trying to do good but must struggle with the weight of his responsibility. Zendaya as Fremen Chani has chemistry with Chalamet and her character serves as a solid voice of reason amongst people consumed by their goals. Ferguson continues to shine as Atreides' mother who masterfully manipulates the populace in order to survive, and Javier Bardem continues to be a great performer as a very religious Fremen who wants to believe in Paul. Elvis' Austin Butler debuts as Feyd-Rautha Harkonen. He overshadows his already larger-than-life family members as a psychopath with a strange honesty about his violence and a charisma to him.

Director Denis Villeneuve's direction continues to be amazing. This will definitely be remembered as one of the best looking films of 2024, continuing the original film's memorable 60'/70's sci-fi aesthetic (particurlarly that type of sci-fi design that specifically seems to come from European directors). Though one could argue that the Harkonen's all black aesthetic feels a little too simplistic.

Highly recommended. The message gets slightly worn near the end but this is still top-notch cinema.

The Irrational- Season 1

6.5/10

In this new NBC show based on the nonfiction book Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely, behavioral psychology professor Alec Mercer (played by Law & Order/The Flash's Jesse L. Martin) uses his knowledge of irrational behavior to help the authorities solve crime.

This starts off weak. The first couple episodes or so have some troubled dialogue. The last line of the first episode feels like a parody of network television mysteries. The writers do find their voice but even then it is still an average show of its type in regards to writing and characterization.

The best part is the info dumps about human behavior. They're interesting (and the only well written section of the first episode is the introduction to the irrationality of man). The individual stories aren't too shabby and the show is pretty flexible in the cases Mercer takes on, they're not all murder mysteries. There is an overarching storyline about a tragedy in Alec's past. It doesn't break the network television storyline mode, but it is a competently told and decently paced narrative with a respectable resolution. 

Martin's trademark smooth attitude works for making Mercer feel authoritative. However, this is one of Martin's weaker roles. Mercer as a character is low-key and does not give the actor the opportunity to bring the charisma he has been known. Mercer also has a burn scar on his cheek and the makeup doesn't look great.

Kinda recommended. It's your basic network fare but makes for decent time-wasting, and I do like the look at how irrational people are.

Drive-Away Dolls

8/10

In Drive-Away Dolls, during the 90's lesbian friends, uptight, serious Marian (played by Miracle Workers' Geraldine Viswanathan) and southern twanged free spirit Jamie (Margaret Qualley, the hitchhiker from Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) go on a trip to Tallahassee, not knowing that there's been a mix-up and that the car they're dropping off is carrying a package that some dangerous people want.

This is the first solo film directed by Cohen brother Ethan. Whereas Joel showed that he may be the more serious brother and went with his adaptation of MacBeth, Joel may be showing that he's the more comedy-oriented one. (Not claiming this as an original idea. I'm not the first one to make this conjecture online.) DAD may be the guy's most over-the-top film and makes for a fun ride. This has that Cohen/Pulp Fiction style of chaotic, gonzo, pulpy comic feel that latter movies haven't been able to recapture. There are some solid comedy bits with a great cast and unexpectedness to where the story is going. This is also Cohen's raunchiest comedy, so if you like hard R than this is for you. 

Admittedly, at a short 84 minutes the movie does still have a few scenes that felt unnecessary or drawn out. There are definitely two dream segments that could've been cut. Also, there are a few trippy interstitials that feel indulgent and the budget for the graphics doesn't feel great. The endgame of what is in the car may not live up to expectations of what you want it to be.

Viswanathan and Qualley make the film. They may be playing ropes, but they really manage to shine with great delivery and chemistry amongst them. Qualley shows that he she finally deserves a lead role. Viswanathan who was already a great comedic talent in Miracle Workers, but the first three seasons did have her shackled down with a straight man role, gets to show her talent a lot more. Other fun performances are Beanie Feldstein as Jamie's rightfully angry ex-girlfriend and Twisters' Joey Slotnick as a goon who is also a people person.

Recommended. This was a pretty good time. This isn't top tier Cohen like Fargo and Big Lebowski, but it's up there, and I liked it better than the likes of Brother Where art Thou? or Hail Caesar. 

Madame Web

 

5/10

In Sony's continued quest to mine whatever Spider-Man characters they own the rights to, we get a tale about the psychic Madame Web which serves as a Spider-Man prequel (but doesn't appear to take place in any specific movie timeline). EMT Cassandra Web (Fifty Shades of Grey's Dakota Johnson) discovers she can see the future and tries to save the lives of three teens (all three to become different spider heroines) from being assassinated by the spider-powered Ezekial Sims (The Mauritarian's Tahar Rahim).

Little surprised they went with MW as the first female lead and used some of the less prominent Spidey women (no offense to Julia Carpenter and Anya Corazon fans). Black Cat, Silver Sable and the first Spider-Woman should've been the logical choices. Oh well. Just musings. Not an attack on utilizing the character. I think anyone can properly be utilized if given the right direction. (The Riddler had only two appearances before in the comics before he was used in the 60's Batman show and look what that did to his popularity).

Here's an actual criticism. Again, this is a Sony Spidey film that feels like it was from the 2000s. (An excellent film to compare this to is Elektra). I don't know why Sony keeps taking this basic serious route when the fun ones, the Tom Holland and Spider-Verse films, are doing so well. The MCU films may be too quippy and DCEU films too dark and serious but at least they had a solid identity. 

The is very uneven. There are a few good comedy bits but there is also a lot of dialogue that just doesn't work. I give the movie credit for naturally introducing multiple characters. However, the movie drops the ball in the third act completely. It feels choppy with odd choices just there to advance the plot. 

I give credit for giving each of the teens a backstory, but the kids-with-sad-lives tropes feels really worn out by now. (Didn't need it in Stargirl and didn't need it here.) Also, I don't feel like any of the trio completed a character arc.

We got a good cast who just can't make the bad script work. There are a couple exceptions, especially Park and Rec/Severance's Adam Scott, who deserve an award for sounding natural, but most can't. Johnson is pretty good in the funny parts but that's the best she can do. 

Credit should be given to the movie for at least basically knowing what it is and having an identity compared to recent superhero films that are messy or feel derivative. Web doesn't have super strength or other offensive powers, only her psychic abilities which makes for a very different dynamic when going against a villain.

Faring the worst is Rahim. He has the worst lines and you can tell he was poorly ADRed at times. To be honest, Sims feels like an odd choice to use as a villain. He wasn't really an antagonist in the comics. (You'd think that they would've learned from the outrage of Psylocke being made a villain in not one but two X-Men films). The sad thing is that Sims in this had the DNA to make a decent baddie. You understand his motive and was pretty competent in his strategy if only he was better written.

Going back to the 2000's feel this has a bland white lighting scheme. However, the action and the look of Webb's vision powers are actually pretty good.

Not particularly recommended or not recommended. This is messy and this is definitely not a must-see. However, I don't think this is bad as some say. It's distinct in its way, and I don't regret watching it. Have no plans to rewatch but would stay in the room if someone else had it on.

Argylle

7.5/10

In this new movie from Matthew Vaughn (director of the Kingsman films), Elly Conway (played by Bryce Dallas Howard) is the author of a successful series of novels about a spy named Argylle. Her books predict real world events which puts her in the sights of a secret organization and ends up having to go on the run with her cat and a spy named Aidan Wilde (Sam Rockwell).

Since this is a Vaughn spy film, we get his love for fun 60's/70's spy stories. There are decent moments of humor. This is PG-13, so Vaughn can't get as crazy as he did for the Kingsman films, but he still delivers some creative action. The final fight really is something. Visually, Vaughn's still got that colorful flair he's known for.

The biggest issue is definitely that the movie didn't need to be 2 hours and 19 minutes. You can feel it in the first two acts. Howard and Rockwell work well off of each other, but there is way too much time spent on them talking and arguing. However, once we get to the third act and secrets are revealed, everything flows a lot more smoothly. The trailer advertised that there is a big secret. To be honest, it's not a Sixth Sense level reveal, but it's well played, especially one part.

Howard was good casting. Her Elly is naturally likable, and she has this way with her facial expressions. Catherine O'Hara is Elly's mother. The actress is always good, but I got to say that this might be one of her best performances. 

Bryan Cranston is the main villain. He's not bad (definitely determined, I'll give you that), but he is marred a little by an accent or voice choice that's a bit hard to pinpoint and the character itself could've been stronger. I've realized that an Achilles Heel of Vaughn's is that his villains can have the tendency to be a bit broad. The West Side Story remake's Ariana DeBose is in this as a character in the Argylle novels and she is poorly utilized. Her character could've been easily cut. 

Recommended. This could've been a leaner, stronger piece, but it's still fairly entertaining, and I do love the finale.

Hazbin Hotel- Season 1

7.5/10

In Hazbin Hotel on Amazon Prime, the forces of Heaven, fearing the great numbers of sinners in Hell, hold an extermination once a year where they kill a lot of souls. (In this world, all dead people either become demons or angels.) Idealistic Charlie Morningstar (voiced by Erika Henningsen, who was the original lead in Broadway's Mean Girls the Musical), is tired of this, so she decides to create a hotel that specializes in redeeming any who stay there so that they can get into heaven.

The pilot for this came out four years ago (this was an indie animation that had to first be picked up, plus animating takes time), and I've been waiting, genuinely curious as to the final outcome, and yeah, this doesn't disappoint. Characters are well defined, there's great world building, and the show manages to hit the funny bits pretty well. One is engrossed with the story as it develops and whether Charlie will achieve her dream. This is kinda like The Good Place in that it questions the concept of eternal damnation for people that were lousy or made poor decisions but weren't evil, evil.

Be forewarned that this is very adult. Very, very adult. Maybe more sexed up than the Rocky Horror Picture Show and more foul-mouthed than South Park (I've heard the words b**** and holes, as in orifices and not in the ground, more times than I ever have.) And this, show can be pretty bipolar when it comes to its content. Hazbin Hotel can have a funny part and then something dark may happen. Unlike Bojack Horseman, which was known for balancing lighter and darker humor, I don't know if this finds the balance. The creator Vivienne Medrano is definitely a talent, but she's like those two guys who created the Venture Brothers, they're definitely creative, but you're truly worried about their state of mind. Medrano's original pilot and her web cartoon Helluva Boss, which didn't have to censor for streaming, are a LOT. Things can get uncomfortable with her. The subplot of hotel occupant and porn star Angel Dust (Blake Roman) gets DAAAARRRKKKK. It is front and center in episode four and their is a reason why it is rated 18+ while all the others are 16+.

Also understand that this season is only eight episodes long. The show has a lot of characters and ideas, but they don't all have their equal time to shine. There's so much plot being revealed that it's easy to remember what's going on this season but so hard to remember what was the main story of each individual episode.

The voice cast is good. This show is a musical, and I'm happy to say everyone they cast are good singers. Henningsen really manages to sell Charlie's sheer unbridled optimism. (A big part of her character is how pure she is despite living in a terrible place with awful people.) The other star of the show is Alastor, the Radio Demon (Amir Talai), who sounds like he's speaking over an old-timey radio. He's a very powerful demon that's sponsoring the hotel not because he believes in it, but because it amuses him. He's the "aren't-you-glad-I'm-on-your-side"-type, equally charming and funny and a terrifying fellow when you cross him.

People have already pointed out that Charlie's girlfriend Vaggy (Reno 911/Encanto's Stephanie Beatriz) sounds like and is kinda similar to Poison Ivy in the Harley Quinn show. But in fairness, the pilot came out before HQ. Credit to be given to the show for how the lovers' relationship is made clear through showing without having to explain.

The animation feels like a Deviantart artist's page come to life with a distinct type of character design. It's a very unique depiction of the afterlife. The animation is colorful, and the quality itself is really fluid and detailed. 

The songs are pretty good; there are weaker entries but no bad ones. I particularly like the variety; none of the songs feel like parodies/homages of existing songs like I've seen in many other musical TV shows.

Kinda recommended. This is definitely not for everyone. If you don't like M-rated stuff, stay away. And I do not fault anyone for episode four being too much. However, if you're okay with all of that, you may very well like this creative, well produced work. (You might want to see the pilot on Youtube first. The first episode does explain the premise, but the pilot explains stuff more.)

Monarch: Legacy of Monsters- Season 1

8/10

In this television spin-off of the Godzilla/King Kong theatrical Monsterverse on Apple+, Cate Randa (played by  Anna Sawai) travels to Japan to uncover questions about her missing father where she is drawn into a mystery involving Monarch, the agency that deals with giant monsters.

The plot does start a little tepid. Story is initially decent but doesn't feel like it is excelling. However, things really pick up during the second half. The plot becomes far more intricate and surprising and the character relationships really develop. (There's a lot you can't predict from the outset.) A lot of this also looks at the history of how Monarch first came to be (this doesn't do a half bad version of keeping steady with the movies' continuity) and it's pretty good and planned out.

Also, this is for you if you're looking for something for the whole family. The show maintains the audience level of the movies.

The monster effects are practically movie quality. This is still television, so they are always in short bursts, but you never get an episode without a monster.

Cast is good and the characters are distinct. I liked the main actors but to be honest I think the best performances are probably Joe Tippett as the likable everyman member of Monarch and Hell on Wheels' Christopher Heyerdahl as a general.

Be aware that this takes place approximately after the first Godzilla movie but before the second one. The show could've done a better job of making that clearer from the onset. I first thought it took place currently in the franchise. There a couple other nitpicks: one brief antagonist that is just too caustic and there is one plot point here that doesn't line up with what happened in Godzilla vs. Kong.

Highly recommended. This a popcorn movie made into TV form without feeling overextended.

ISS

8/10

In ISS, Dr. Kira Foster (the West Side Story remake's Ariana DeBose) becomes the newest crew member of the International Space Station (real thing if you're not familiar), which is manned by Americans and Russians. Nuclear war breaks out between their two countries and the Americans get a private order to take over the station by any means necessary, and they have to wonder if their compatriots got the same order.

This is an idea that makes perfect sense for a closed-space thriller, and I'm surprised no one has ever thought of this before. The movie does jump into the action a little faster than I'd like; would've preferred suspense about and the build up to who will make the first movie. However, once things are rolling, they never get boring. One is left guessing as to what will happen next. Also, helps that all the characters are distinct with differing moral viewpoints.

Fairly good cast. This is one of DeBose's few projects so far that don't involve singing, and she gets to show off her acting chops and why she won the Oscar. DeBose really knows how to become the character.

The look of the interior of the ISS feels authentic. (Course I don't have a lot of memories of space station footage, so what do I know?) Definite thought was put into putting the set together and the weightlessness effects. 

Highly recommended. I know that this isn't getting a lot of buzz or butts in seats, but this is a gripping piece.

Origin

9.5/10

Ava DuVernay's latest film Origin chronicles Isabel Wilkerson's research for her book Caste: the Origins of our Discontents, which looks at various examples of caste throughout the world, including slaver/Jim Crow laws, the Holocaust, and India's caste system, and how it underpins racism.

I only ended up seeing this because I took a chance on AMC's mystery movie, and I'm so glad I did. This is just a really well written film. You'd think a movie that is 60% a woman doing research and interviewing people could be slow and perhaps dull but this is an excellently paced affair with reliable dialogue.  

The subject matter is very moving and interesting. Usually a movie about racism focuses on how it affects a particular race/religion. Looking at the general aspect of it and shows the interrelations of humanity. This all results in a very emotional ending. 

The movie follows Wilkerson (played by King Richard's Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor) all of the way except for the occasional historical flashback. The focus wouldn't have worked if the script wasn't there and Wilkerson wasn't up to the performance. There's an understanding and strength to the author (who was dealing with personal struggles as well) that makes her very engaging. The cast is good all around including Reno 911/Claws' Niecy Nash as Wilkerson's cousin and The Punisher's Jon Bernthal as her husband.

At least part of this film appears to be shot on location in various parts of the globe, and I appreciate the effort.

If there are any nitpicks to this movie, it showcases the data of caste systems, but maybe there could've been more of a conclusion of how it all ties together and why the system occurs. Also, you do kinda get the feeling that the movie could only include the highlights of what was in the book and that there were other examples of caste that there wasn't time for.

Highly recommended. This is a very compelling work.

The Beekeeper

7.5/10

In this new David Ayer movie, kindly older woman Eloise Parker (played by The Cosby Show's Phylicia Rashad) is digitally scammed for all her life savings which results in a tragic event. Beekeeper Adam Clay, who was renting a barn from her, vows revenge. Turns out he's a retired agent from a super, super secret government agency known as the Beekeepers and he's got a skill set that's going to make him very hard to take down by the villains or law enforcement.

The Beekeeper is enjoyable in how over-the-top and action-packed it gets. I haven't seen Jason Statham go this hardcore in a while (in fairness, I haven't seen the Crank films). Action is hardcore, well choreographed, and violent with moments of creativity. Several villains are dressed more colorful than in your usual action flick, which makes for a nice change.

It also helps that the movie never dawdles. Plot points are introduced quickly and usually organically. Clay gets to visit different set pieces to fight in, and the many, many villains are really varied. One could worry that too many characters could be overkill, but it all works. The plot itself, while not too ambitious, is more thought out and interesting than you'd expect from a basic popcorn action film.

'Course this is is a David Ayer movie. He's the guy who wrote the script for Training Day but also created Suicide Squad's gangster Joker. As is often the case with the guy, he's got good ideas and bad ones. The setup with Parker felt a little too rushed. Clay makes way, way, WAY too many bee analogies. It's weird, and to be clear, he wasn't trained as a beekeeper as cover for his job, he decided to become an actual one after he retired. He's TOOOO focused on bees.

Parker's daughter and FBI agent Verona (The Umbrella Academy's Emmy Raver-Lampman) gets the worst dialogue here. She's got a few good lines, but a lot of stinkers. Also, she is dogged in her pursuit of Clay even though she knows he's avenging her mother and punishing the ones who wronged Eloise. She gives a reason about believing in the law, but it doesn't ring true. (On the other hand, I liked her partner played by Bobby Naderi. He's a quick-tongued fella). 

Statham delivers classic Statham, no more, no less. However, it's the actors playing the villains that have the most fun. The standout is Jeremy Irons as the consultant to the main baddie. He's like the mob boss in the first John Wick movie, he didn't have anything to do with what ticked off the protagonist and didn't want to be dragged into this. He's very watchable as the guy who knows he is trying to dig through solid rock with a spoon but doesn't see any option but to keep digging.

Recommended. The whole thing's kinda crazy and over-the-top but oh-so watchable.

Reacher- Season 2

8/10

In this second season, based on Bad Luck and Trouble, the eleventh book in the Jack Reacher series by Lee Child, Reacher (played by Ritchson, a guy who looks like a full brick wall magically came to life), former MP and current vagabond, teams up with his old Special Investigations Unit when one of their members is murdered.

This season feels like it moves quicker. Instead of Reacher mostly being stuck in one town, he gets to travel around and keeps things more varied. There is a lot more focus on action this time (and the show was already pretty action heavy). Violence is more creative. Though I do miss Reacher's rapport with his team mates last time (the whole point of Reacher is he is a lone traveler who doesn't have a constant team), the new guys are a pretty likable bunch.

Understand that this is blatant escapism. If you prefer a more grounded affair, don't expect any real world legal restrictions on Reacher's path of revenge. If you just want a tale of good guys with guns defeating the wicked then this is for you. (As with all Reacher stories, the villains are all super evil and killey). Reacher does feel a little too cocky, and it can get annoying. Also, this season the guy is a straight up executioner who doesn't only act in defense or to save people. He doesn't just want to beat the bad guys, he wants them DEAD. It gets a little weird. (Say what you will about the material, but one can't question Ritchon's soft-spoken self-assured portrayal).

Recommended. A fun, action-packed time, and Ritchson is very watchable.

Fargo- Season 5

9.5/10

In season 5 of the FX anthology series, housewife Dot Lyon (Ted Lasso's Juno Temple) finds her life and family under threat when a shadow from the past pursues her.

The last couple seasons haven't been as strong as the first two, so I'm proud to say that 5 is a real return to form. It both feels like the classic Fargo formula while also reinventing itself. (I especially appreciate that this has more of the main character's family life, which I felt really helped make seasons 1 and 2 work and juxtaposes well against the crueler aspects of the world of Fargo.) What ensues is a pretty well written look at the American political divide and the nature of debt coupled by an interesting story and characters. Creator Noah Hawley's gift for excellently crafted dialogue and monologues is at full speed here. The last three episodes may have been the most engrossing cap off to a season of Fargo there's been, and the very last scene of the entire show may be one of the best moments on television I've ever seen.

Going in though, understand that this is also the darkest season of Fargo (and that's saying something.) Sure, the show's always been about violent crime, but this one focuses on a pretty sensitive subject that may not be for everyone and DOES NOT shy away from the matter.

Visually, the show is also still top knotch with some film-quality shots. Plus, there's some of the best use of music the show's ever done.

I'm glad Temple's work on Ted Lasso really helped jump start her career in America. (Unlike the rest of the British cast on that show she'd already been working regularly in the US, but a lot of her films were flops or limited release.) She brings such a humanity and determination to her character (all with a pretty fun midwestern accent.) Rest of the cast is also great. Jennifer Jason Leigh excels as Dot's sarcastic, cold-blooded billionaire mother-in-law Lorraine Lyon, who inexplicably has an outdated transatlantic accent.

Mad Men's Jon Hamm is antagonist Roy Tillman, a constitutional sherriff and rancher from a line of sheriffs who rules his county like a fiefdom. He's different from previous Fargo villains. Most of them are the love to hate types. Tillman, however, is designed simply to be hated. Hamm is really pulling off the loathsome. (Most villains are honest with themselves in their criminality whereas Tillman clearly feels he's the hero of his story.) You don't watch because of fascination of the character, you want to see if he'll get his just deserts or not. But don't worry, the show still has its interesting villain. Ole Munch (Sam Spruell, who was the main baddie in Jodie Whittaker's last season of Doctor Who) is this season's contract criminal. The tall, kilt-wearing Danish man is a fascinatingly eccentric fellow who doesn't have a personal stake in the matters at hand and brings his own personal philosophy into the events.

Unfortunately, there are so many characters that some of them don't get enough screentime. Kids in the Hall/Newsradio's Dave Foley gets to be Lorraine's one-eyed lawyer/fix-it man Danish Graves who's got a flair about him. New Girl's Lamorne Morris gives the best performance I've ever seen him do as a kind-hearted cop caught in Dot's story. Both of them you truly wish you got more of. 

Highly recommended. This is peak golden age television.

Lift

6.5/10

In Lift, master thief Cyrus (played by Kevin Hart) and his crew are recruited by Interpol agent Abby (Belle/Loki's Gugu Mbatha-Raw), who was previously after them, in order to steal a large shipment of gold being transported via plane to terrorists.

This is a fairly basic heist film in terms of characters, dialogue, and set up, but it is still a light, breezy experience that managed to keep my attention. I particularly liked that this was trying to be an escapist film without civilian casualties, but the filmmakers also managed to make the villains fairly nasty/reprehensible enough within the PG-13 boundaries.

The most unique aspect of this is the flight-based heist. I won't spoil anything, but I hadn't a heist done this way before (haven't seen money plane, but I'm pretty sure they're going a different route than Money Plane). This is a popcorn film, and they make the exterior and interiors of planes in this (one of which is first class) pretty appealing with sleek and colorful modern design.

It's kinda apparent that Hart is doing this to prove that he can also be a dramatic/action star. Known for his particular comedic style, he plays it completely straight here without jokes, and he does a decent job. Wouldn't say he's become the most charismatic action star, but he sells the character. Vincent D'Onofrio plays the flamboyant member of the gang and as the actor has proven in The Magnificent Seven and Dumb Money he relishes whenever he can go over-the-top. Attention should also be given to Torchwood/Pacific Rim's Burn Gorman (who is unappreciated in my opinion) as the villain's right hand who brings a little bit of personality to the role.

Kinda recommended. Not the greatest heist movie ever but makes for a passable time waster.

Mean Girls (2024)

8/10

In this film adaptation of the Mean Girls musical adaptation of the original 2004 Mean Girls movie which itself was loosely based on the book Queen Bees and Wannabees (whew...), Cady Herron (played by Angourie Rice who was Betty Brant in the latest Spider-Man trilogy), who has lived in Africa and been home schooled all her life, gets to experience American school life for the first time. Here, she captures the attention of the glamorous but mean queen bee of the school Regina George (The Sex Lives of College Girls' Renee Rapp who also originated the role on Broadway) and soon finds herself in Regina's toxic clutches.

Screenwriter Tina Fey had the unenviable position of adapting a musical to film while also having to remake her own film. I heard the original musical followed the original's pretty closely but Fey couldn't just have them repeat all the dialogue. She did a surprisingly good job of still following all the general beats while coming up with an original script. Yeah, the original movie was funnier but this is a pretty entertaining follow-up where the script and dialogue don't falter. Admittedly, what with this having songs in it, some story parts felt a little rushed or slimmed (I definitely would've liked more time with Regina's followers Gretchen Weiners (Bebe Wood) and Karen Shetty (Avantika)) when compared to the original but the whole affair still runs pretty smoothly).

The best part of this is that Fey's had twenty years to think about what parts about popularity and girl cruelty could've been better said or handled. I thought this movie honestly did a better job of actually showcasing and analyzing mean girls. The movie has Regina be more three-dimensional and imply without directly saying why she is the way she is. Cadie being sucked into the "mean girl" world felt more prominent and the battle with her selfish side feels a lot stronger here.

If you're a fan of the original musical, I've got to warn you: Approximately seven songs are cut or replaced (I'm not counting the reprises). I haven't seen so many songs cut since the film adaptation of Best Little Whorehouse in Texas back in the eighties and that wasn't even that many. A lot of songs also feel like their rhythm has been altered; not that this has never happened before with adaptations (like the Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer song in Cats or the wolf song in Into the Woods), but I've never seen it so prevalent. In fairness, you have to give the creators credit for making sure the script worked and wasn't bogged down by requisite musical numbers. They remember that this is a movie and not a show and have this piece last an acceptable, non-indulgent 1 hour and 52 minutes. As for the songs in this movie themselves, yeah, most of them are pretty good with Regina's songs being the real highlights.

This was originally shot for Paramount+ before the execs thought this could make the big bucks in the theaters. Because of this, the movie definitely has a mid-budget feel. You can see this was shot at an older school and not one of those nicer ones you usually see used in theatrical films, and "Africa" is clearly just some field in America. However, I give directors Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez Jr. credit for doing a lot with what they had. This is their first feature-length fiction film, and I wish them the best as they show promise. The musical numbers pop in terms of choreography and visuals. 

The original movie had iconic casting, but the gang here isn't shabby, even the ones who don't shine as brightly as the originals still are pretty good. The standouts here are Rapp, who has the best voice, kills her numbers and has a slightly tougher version of Regina that is on equal with that of Rachel McAdams, and Auli'i Cravalho (the voice of Moana), as Cady's friend Janis 'Imi'ike, she's also a great singer and has this more fun energy to her that I feel out does original actress Lizzy Caplan. Although I think Amanda Seyfried was the best and more well-rounded Karen, the simple-minded member of the clique, Avantika is pretty entertaining as she makes the choice to make the character a wide-eyed space case 85% of the time. Weakest actor might actually be lead Rice. She does alright but has the weakest singing voice and her speaking voice feels a little muted in the beginning. However, when it comes to her personality being influenced by the events around her, I actually thought her changes were done stronger than original actress Lindsay Lohan.

Recommended. Sure it isn't as good as the original but is definitely an entertaining time by itself and frankly came out better than I thought it would. This really does have some of the best shot musical numbers of recent years.

Rebel Moon: Part 1--A Child of Earth

5.5/10

In Zack Snyder's new film on Netflix, a small village on a moon face the threat of a warship from the galactic empire known as the Imperium, which wants their crops. To save themselves, villager Gunnar (played by Treme's Michiel Huisman) and newer resident with a mysterious past Kora (2017's The Mummy's Sofia Boutella) go in search of warriors to help fight back.

This is a very derivative sci-fi space film. The plot is basically Seven Samurai/Magnificent Seven in space, and they already did that in the early 80's with Battle Beyond the Stars. The Imperium feels a lot like the military in Dune. The empire's soldiers dress way too similarly to Nazis. (At least the military uniforms in Star Wars were "generally" fascist.)

Almost all the Imperium soldiers are way too one dimensional super, super EVIL. Gets exhausting.

There isn't much special about this movie, but there are moments where there are clever ideas.

Snyder has always been know for style over substance, and has delivered some truly epic visuals that most aren't capable of achieving. So, I'm disappointed to say that this is one of his least impressive looking films. The sets in particular just don't feel that ambitious. In fairness, credit should go to the digital effects teams because their detail work when it comes to space ships or cities is pretty good.

No complaints about the casting here. The actors aren't given much to work with but they do their best. This feels like Boutella's main lead role in a major motion picture, and she steps up to the plate even if she is the typical "tough female warrior". I hope this advances her career. Though he plays a cliched fascist, Ed Skrein is clearly having fun playing the warship's commander. Credit should also be going to Mishuis, who does a good job of displaying Gunnar's noviceness, but not ignorance, when dealing with the world outside his village. (Also, props to Ant-Man's Corey Stoll as the village's leader, a role very different form his usual ones. The guy is almost unrecognizable; didn't realize he had that range.)

The best you can say about Rebel Moon is that it is a film. The movie isn't particularly weak but there is barely anything original about it. Can't recommend but can't say you need to avoid either.

Night Swim

7.5/10

In Night Swim, Ray Waller (played by Falcon and the Winter Soldier/Monarch's Wyatt Russell), a former baseball player suffering from multiple sclerosis, and his family move into a new house with a pool, but it's not a regular pool, it's a scary supernatural murder pool.

I'm surprised that a pool has never been turned into a an average--object-turned-element-of-murder movie. Pools are kinda scary. People can drown, strike their heads on the cement parts/diving board, and there's something unknown/ominous about the gaps where the water flows through. This movie makes good use of the concept and does a diverse job of showing various ways in which this pool just ain't right. There's some fairly creepy imagery, including seeing things in the background that aren't in focus. However, the scares are diminishing returns; the best parts are earlier on.

The plot itself is decent but could've been improved upon. There are plenty of horror movie families, but you don't usually see one dealing with a family member with a disease, which adds a little more to the usual formula. You get a feel for the characters, especially the dad, but the script doesn't go for that extra mile in their characterization. Some scenes and dialogue are mixed in quality. (This was originally a short film and you can see some of the growing pains in fleshing the story out.) Cast is good, especially Russell, but there is one small role that really isn't working.

Special effects and makeup are fairly good, though there a couple moments that feel a little weak. This is one of those horror situations where the supernatural threats aren't as effective as when you clearly see them.

Recommended. Story is good but not great. What makes this work definitely is the scares.