fullbug Reviews

Rust Valley Restorers (2018– )

Less Technical - More Drama (saved by likeable characters)

[10/10 · 29 April 2022]

Some of the characters on these types of car restore shows look like they are probably creepo's in real life, whereas these guys seem fairly sincere in their fun-loving nature (stereotypical down to earth fellow Canadians). As a result, the less technical-more drama ratio of the show still makes it enjoyable/tolerable.

Mike uses the Lord's name in vain too much, but is a likeable baby-boomer, old school rock dude as the main character of the show. Avery's smile and laugh is infectious and instantly puts a smile on my face. I'm super picky on what I will bother watching these days, so it is a shame to come to an end.

On a side note, with this recent barrage of car restore shows on tv, it has made me consider my all time classic muscle car choices...there are so many good ones. One of my top picks would be Connor's 1966 Chevelle (800hp supercharged). I was born in '66, which also makes it more significant, but it is so cool looking, having some distinct batmobile-ish characteristics in its lines and stance. Canada's GM version of the Chevelle (Pontiac Beaumont) is also a favorite.

Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)

"What a piece of junk!"

[8/10 · 16 April 2022]

The movie is not a piece of junk, but we now know why Luke Skywalker used those words to describe the Millennium Falcon. The ship was in brand new condition before Han Solo got his hands on it and did the Kessel run in 12 parsecs. It really took a beating while avoiding various space anomalies and Imperial pursuit.

This installment of the Star Wars canon is technically episode 4. I'm not sure if it rates on the same level as "A New Hope" or "Revenge of the Sith", but is entertaining and an important piece in filling-in the background story for Han Solo, Chewbacca and Lando Calrissian.

A good story filled with action and moments of comedy that one would expect from Han Solo, including all the usual alien and droid characters that are also fun to watch. I'm not a complete Star Wars geek, but I've seen it 3 times and very much enjoyed it.

Seraphim Falls (2006)

Great Cast + Biblical Metaphors + Rambo Elements = Superb Western

[10/10 · 7 April 2022]

At 6.6 this movie is severely underrated. I'm not sure what more the negative reviews are expecting from this unique and exciting western?? Anyone giving this movie less than a 6 has a rating compass that is completely lost.

Great story, cast, acting, action, cinematography and thought provoking character metaphors. The survivalist/rambo element by Brosnan's character is also exhilarating (incl versatile use of bowie knife). A very re-watchable movie.

Joe Montana: Cool Under Pressure (2022)

5 Hours of Joe Cool: The Missing Episode of "A Football Life"

[10/10 · 13 February 2022]

There aren't too many people in all of sports that could justify making a 5 hour documentary of their career. It takes more than just championships. Joe Montana is one of those few.

Living a mostly storied life (which is also fun to watch), Montana's career also contained enough drama and struggles to comfortably pull it off. It is basically like watching a long episode of A Football Life...which I thoroughly enjoy.

I'm a stats guy, so I always have several wiki pages open on my computer whenever watching any of these sports docs. Montana's passing yardage is surprisingly low on the all-time list (#21), particularly compared to his 80's counterparts (Marino #7 and Elway #11), but he is #8 for all time comp% and #6 for overall passer rating.

This of course was accomplished prior to the modern era of protected QB's (whom occupy 8 of the top 10 slots). Joe is also 1 of only 3 QB's with 4 or more SB's (Bradshaw (4) and Brady (7) being the only others).

One main aspect of the story was the Montana vs Young debacle. Barring injury, benching a healthy Joe Montana would be like benching Gretzky or Jordan in favor of another player. Unthinkable!! These kinds of things can happen whenever coaches put their shrink hats on with their players. Sometimes it can work, sometimes it can backfire.

Nevertheless, if Joe was not content playing 2nd string upon his '91 injury recovery (age 36 - past his prime), the 49ers should have traded him immediately...and to a division contender. They morally owed him that, but instead sat him for an entire year (amidst a cloud of ongoing tension).

Playing his final 2 seasons with Marcus at KC (whom had similar issues with Al Davis) must have been a nice treat for both of them. Though it was a shame having to retire in '94, for that team finished 1st overall the following season (13-3 record + 7 pro bowlers).

A storybook ending would have been for him to win a record breaking 5th SB with KC. Didn't happen. Nevertheless a very good/well produced sports doc series that I will probably watch again.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)

Arguably Greatest Western Ever - However...

[8/10 · 5 February 2022]

There are a couple of reasons why I only rated this film an 8. The dubbed-in voices and some of the super close-up shots by Leone make the movie seem cheezy and unprofessional. I realize it's a dated 1960's movie, but I don't recall any of John Wayne's movies having dubbed voices. Some may view these as being classic and charming. I however, do not. Nevertheless, it is still an epic western masterpiece.

The Fugitive (1993)

Should Be On Everyone's Top 10 List

[10/10 · 25 January 2022]

One of the most rewatchable movies ever made, and arguably Harrison Ford's best movie (Tommy Lee Jones' too). Great supporting cast and acting, loaded with action and story is a remake of the classic 60's tv series. Scoring anything less than an 8 is an insult to this superbly crafted movie.

Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015)

Yet Another Fem Agenda Flick

[1/10 · 30 December 2021]

This movie franchise is primarily watched by male viewers. I have no problem with female protagonists, but you don't replace Luke Skywalker with a Mary Sue/Karen...which exactly describes the character of Rey.

This was not an oversight by the movie producers, but a deliberate role-reversal agenda on our society. Even the male character of Finn is over emotional and girlish, whereas Rey is take-charge and masculine.

From this point forward, the beloved main Star Wars (male) characters are both minimized and systematically killed off. This latest trilogy is watchable but forced, rather than thoroughly enjoyed like the original trilogy.

In short, if I want to watch Wonder Woman...I will simply do so, but replacing Luke Skywalker with Karen is completely unacceptable.

Poseidon (2006)

Nothing Wrong With This Remake

[8/10 · 24 June 2021]

Kurt Russell doesn't do bad movies...and this movie is no exception. Great cast does a decent job with this remake of the 1972 classic. The only part that makes me cringe are the early scenes of Russell's spoiled self-entitled trust fund teenage daughter. She is a modern Fem Agenda character that I simply fast-forward past her high-horse scenes. Other than that, it is very watchable.

The Thing (1982)

One of the Most Re-Watchable Movies Ever Made

[10/10 · 29 May 2021]

Classic and timeless that is now almost 40 years old. Great cast and character interaction, and covers the whole gambit of genre's (sci-fi, action, horror, thriller, mystery). There are even a few comedy moments, and with it taking place in Antarctica, it could even be classified as an adventure. It is one of the most re-watchable movies ever made.

Kelly's Heroes (1970)

"Like would you stop with those negative waves"

[10/10 · 12 November 2019]

7.6 isn't a bad average rating...but should be higher considering some of the crap being released in recent years that is rated higher.

This movie very much resembles The Dirty Dozen (a group of misfits on a serious mission during WW2). Which is not a bad thing at all. Nor does the comedy element ruin this serious war/action/comedy/adventure movie. It instead enhances it. The scene with Clint Eastwood (Kelly) and George Savalas (Mulligan) is hilarious. Even Donald Sutherland's beatnik character (Oddball) is a bit out of step with the 1940's, it still works well with this unit of misfits.

There are a couple of bad acting moments from a couple of the lower ranked grunts, but the rest of the cast is 1st class. Telly Savalas, Don Rickles, Carol O'Connor and Clint Eastwood are all in top form. Even many of the supporting cast members went on to have significant acting careers.

Like The Dirty Dozen and The Great Escape, Kelly's Hero's is one of those WW2 movies that can be enjoyed over and over. It's a classic.

The Enforcer (1976)

Best Installment of the Dirty Harry Saga

[10/10 · 29 June 2019]

I don't hand out 10 star ratings like candy, as many others do. This is a superb movie. Good story and there are no pointless empty scenes, Obviously an action/crime movie, but also sprinkled with Clint style humor.

The first two Dirty Harry movies were good, but like most early 70's movies, they were still being influenced by the 60's hippy movement. Some of the music scores and cinematography of the early 70's were terrible, and the first two installments somewhat fell victim to this aspect. The mid-late 70's movies (however) were much more sophisticated. The Enforcer is one of the better retro 70's movies.

The two 80's DH movies were pretty decent, but not near as good as this one. Clint was also beginning to age (past his prime). Not that that really matters, but Clint (himself) has expressed regret in making the last two.

The women's lib aspect is also examined in the story. Unlike today, where alpha male feminism is being pushed by the media at every turn, Callahan's perspective (however) is that advancement needs to be earned. Tyne Daley does a superb job with the role.

Billy Jack (1971)

Message of peace. And if that doesn't work, give them a swift kick in the head.

[7/10 · 13 June 2017]

I'm not a fan of the hippie movement. Mostly drug abuse, promiscuous sex, and bad personal hygiene. But there was also a message of peace, self expression, and an awareness of racism and political corruption in the early 70's. This low budget film gives viewers a glimpse into this aspect (from a small town local perspective).

But that passive (peaceful) mentality gets thrown out the window for Billy Jack when local punks, a spoiled rich kid, and a crooked police deputy push things too far. Tom Laughlin plays a quick-tempered green beret Vietnam vet that puts his martial arts skills to work on these corrupt antagonizing locals.

Again, this is a low budget early 70's film. So Rambo it is not, but it does give you quite a bit of satisfaction seeing Billy Jack whoop some tail to those who had it coming.

Octopussy (1983)

Moore at his prime as 007

[10/10 · 13 May 2017]

I honestly haven't seen all of the James Bond movies, but this one ranks in my Top 2 of the Roger Moore era (For Your Eyes Only being the other). His character is comfortable and fully developed compared to some of his earlier efforts. Some might argue too much so with the amount of humor in this movie. However, imo it just makes for a more enjoyable ride. In this regard, another review compared this movie to that of Indiana Jones...which I tend to agree. Intriguing story filled with plenty of action sequences in exotic locations, with a light sprinkling of humor throughout. What more could you ask from a movie. Scenes are also well paced, with good direction, camera work, and music score.

Most of the critic websites rank this movie near the bottom of all the Bond movies. Personally, I wholeheartedly disagree. Imo, it's a full-on winner, and how anyone could possibly give it less than a 7/10 is beyond me.

Silverado (1985)

Classic Modern Western...as good as Tombstone!

[10/10 · 3 December 2016]

Why this movie doesn't have an average rating of 8+ stars is beyond me?? The only reason I can figure is that a bunch of die hard Spaghetti Western fans that prefer watching movies with dubbed-in dialogue gave it a poor rating. SMH

This western has it all: an interesting storyline with numerous sub plots, great performances from an all-star cast, and a polished production.

The 80's isn't known for having very many epic westerns, but this one definitely ranks in my Top 3 with the likes of Pale Rider and The Long Riders.

Southern Comfort (1981)

Ay Caramba!! What did I just watch??

[7/10 · 28 November 2016]

My best guess is that this is a statement being made by Walter Hill with regards to the Vietnam War. Movies like Platoon also depicted this kind of mindless idiocy on the part of US troops, including violent or threatening behaviour towards innocent civilians. It probably happened lots in Namm...and to what extent, probably still happens today.

Totally mixed feelings watching this flick. US troops are supposed to be the good guys, but because of my utter disgust of their characters and behaviour, I eagerly anticipate for at least some of them to be "offed" by the indigenous civilians that they wronged.

After being hit with various boobie traps, attack dogs, and even fatal casualties due to fighting amongst themselves (meatheads), without disclosing the ending, the only soldiers left in trying to escape the swamps (and their Cajun pursuers) are the only ones that you placed any sympathy with and had half a brain.

If not for the production quality and all-star cast, I would have rated this movie much lower. As it stands, it is actually a pretty decent movie, but the annoying factor is fairly high.

Dirty Mary Crazy Larry (1974)

The Ultimate Drive-In Movie of the 70's

[9/10 · 28 November 2016]

Smokey and the Bandit just had to be modeled after this movie. Contains all the same elements. Two partners looking to make that one big (illegal) score, a sexy transitory woman along for the ride, a tough sheriff hot on their tail, and a whole lot of crazy driving from the muscle car era.

And like the Bandit, this isn't just a car chase movie. It was very well written and produced with an interesting story, excellent cast and character development, and imo, Peter Fonda's best film. Also excellent performances by Susan George and Vic Morrow.

Take special note of the superb camera work for all the car chase scenes (very ground breaking). And the light green '69 Dodge Charger is just as eye-catching as the Bandit's Trans Am.

This isn't the Shawshank Redemption...but it isn't as mindless as the Duke's of Hazzard either. A classic 70's Drive-In movie that should be on everyone's Watch List.

The Ballad of Cable Hogue (1970)

Similar to the James Garner classic "Support Your Local Sheriff"

[7/10 · 16 November 2016]

I was expecting to see a serious western. Cable Hogue does deliver with that aspect, when a down on his luck drifter discovers a water source on a stagecoach route and turns it into a going concern. The movie also depicts the main characters romantic pursuit of a young woman who is looking for a sugar-daddy in order to escape her means of prostitution. Hogue also wants revenge on the two former partners that left him high and dry (literally)...but the movie also has a comedic side to it, very similar to the likes of "Support Your Local Sheriff".

An All-Star cast also adds to the viewing experience, and the sexually revealing scenes of Stella Stevens (though portrayed in a comedic way) were actually quite risqué for the time.

If you're looking for a gunslinger western...this ain't it. But if you're looking for a interesting story with a great cast and some comedic overtones...then this movie will deliver.

The Long Riders (1980)

Overlooked Modern Western

[9/10 · 12 November 2016]

Released in 1980, I would include this movie with the likes of Silverado, Pale Rider, Young Guns, Unforgiven, Tombstone, Wyatt Earp, Wild Bill, and Open Range as one of the great modern westerns.

This is the story of the James/Younger Gang, and contains an all-star cast that delivers. Also directed by Walter Hill...which I discovered that I like several of his films. The unique soundtrack is also composed by renown musician Ry Cooder.

Story depicts the gangs robbery of banks, trains and stage coaches, as well as their saloon life of drinking, gambling, bar fights, romance and hostesses. It also shows the frontier life of simpler means, family loyalty and hard work.

If you like modern westerns, make sure to catch this one...it won't disappoint.

Airport 1975 (1974)

Decent 70's Disaster Flick

[6/10 · 12 November 2016]

I seen this movie in the theatre upon its initial release. And though I was only 9 years old at the time, I found it to very intense and exhilarating. But if you're going to compare this movie to the high quality production of the 90's and beyond...imo you're not being honestly fair towards it. It's a 70's disaster movie...and should be assessed as such. Besides, without this movie, the comedy classic "Airplane" wouldn't have resulted.

The movie starts out with an introduction of the hotshot pilots and free spirited stewardesses. And we also get a glimpse of the troubled romantic relationship between the two main characters (Heston and Black). Some of the cameo performances were a bit hokey and overacted imo, but there were so many familiar faces that they help to retain the viewers interest. Norman Fell, Sid Caesar, Jerry Stiller, Efrim Zimbalest Jr, George Kennedy, Erik Estrada, Helen Reddy, Linda Blair...to name a few. With that being said, the story probably could have done without the bumbling news reporter (played by Larry Storch).

As far as the main body of the movie, the story (for the most part) is believable and suspenseful...with a pretty decent performance by Karen Black. The movie also contains some very cool footage of a 747 flying over mountainous terrain. Despite some of the 70's hokiness, I still found it to be a fairly enjoyable watch (42 years later).

The Hunter (1980)

Excellent Action-Crime-Comedy

[8/10 · 12 November 2016]

This movie reminded me of some of the later Dirty Harry movies. Lots of crime action, but I spent half the scenes LMAO!! McQueen plays a bounty hunter that drives an old clunker of car that he can't even park (let alone drive) with any confidence. The absolute chaos and destruction of property that ensues whenever he attempts to apprehend a bail jumper is entertaining, and the action scenes contain some decent stunt work and director of photography camera angles.

The story also includes a subplot of the relationship with his pregnant girlfriend. Also humorous is the garbage dump state of his house and the assembly of freeloading visitors that constantly occupy it. I also enjoyed the co-starring performances of Eli Wallach and Levar Burton.

The production obviously doesn't compare to the movies of the 90's and latter, but for what is essentially a late 70's movie, this was a Grade A motion picture of the time that moves well and keeps the viewer interested.

Special note with it being McQueen's final movie. What a loss to the industry. Despite his previous success, I feel that he was just coming into his prime as a film star. Rest in Peace and thank you Mr. McQueen.

Death Hunt (1981)

Before Rambo...There Was Albert Johnson

[10/10 · 30 October 2016]

Actually this movie was released the year just prior to that of First Blood...and it contains all the same elements. An innocent man being hunted down by a large posse for a crime he did not commit, rugged mountainous terrain, and death defying stunts by one man's struggle to survive.

The viewers sympathy lies with the main character played by Charles Bronson, (Albert Johnson) a lone trapper living in the wilderness, but it also lies with his main pursuer (Sergeant Edgar Millen of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police) played by Lee Marvin. Millen would prefer to simply let Johnson go about his solitary existence, but is forced to try bringing him to justice as a result of his official title as a policeman.

This movie not only entertains with all the action and drama of the unfolding chase, but it also gives the viewer a glimpse into the salty existence of the early settlers and rugged mining camps of the north.

It is my type of movie and is very well produced. It also contains a great cast that includes the likes of Carl Weathers, Andrew Stevens, Ed Lauter, and Angie Dickenson. Definitely placing it in my Top 30 all time favorites.

The Edge (1997)

Way Better Than Jaws

[10/10 · 16 October 2016]

Some reviews refer to this movie as "Jaws With Claws". Perhaps, but the breath taking cinematography and numerous sub plots make this a way better movie. The negative and mediocre reviews (I believe) are the result of armchair survivalists and those that are so saturated with city folk movies that they are practically in culture shock when watching something like this.

I've watched this movie numerous times, and from my perspective, everything is perfect. Introduction - Rising Action - Initial Incident - More Rising Action - Unfolding Sub Plots - 2 Separate Climaxes - Falling Action - Resolution. None of that annoying artistic, trying to be different garbage. Very nicely done.

Music score, directing, and acting are all top notch as well...doesn't get much better than Hopkins and Baldwin. And especially Bart The Bear (RIP). I've watched several documentaries of Bart and his owner Doug Seus. Bart knew when the camera's were rolling and when to turn on the juice in acting ferocious. Nothing scarier than a 1500 pound Kodiak bear stalking you through the woods (wanting to eat you).

Highly recommended, one of my all time favorite movies.

Heat (1986)

Underrated...as were many of Burt's movies from the 80's

[7/10 · 18 June 2015]

Reynolds did a few lame ducks in the 80's, but this is not one of them. The movie takes place in Las Vegas and is complex with several sub-plots and character undertones.

Burt plays an Ex-Special Forces Op turned gambling addict that hires out in solving various problems for his clients. Everything from bodyguard to that of playing the role of fall guy for a weakling trying to impress his girlfriend to that of helping a rape victim friend seek revenge against the son of a wealthy syndicated mobster. There are also profound scenes that depict his gambling addiction.

Great cast and acting, decently written and directed, and a music score that captures the appropriate atmosphere to this darker side of life on The Strip.

6.5/10

Other overlooked winners by Reynolds in the 80's include: Sharkey's Machine, Stick, Malone, Physical Evidence, and Breaking-In.