hollywoodsmle Reviews

The Haunting (1999)

Mixed Feelings

[7/10 · 22 May 2023]

I have such mixed feelings about this film. It goes against character stereotypes which I love. Theo easily could have been an over-the-top pick me, but she isn't. Luke easily could have been treated as a bro, but isn't. Dr. Marrow could have been the "evil" psychiatrist, but isn't.

The acting is good, especially Lily Taylor (Nell); she is amazing as a dependent disorder sufferer. The cast surrounding her and genuinely thinking she has lost her mind are also doing a great job. The mystery behind the story is sooo good, but... the conclusion is convoluted.

The film is a slow burn, which I don't mind, but I could see other viewers wanting more.

Another great aspect of the film is the set design; Eugenio Zanetti did not come to play. WOW!

The very subtle queer relationship between Nell and Theo is also interesting to watch. However, do I wish this film just had one more draft of its script and THEN was filmed, yes.

The Woman in the House (2022)

This is a good satire!

[8/10 · 4 February 2022]

I love how it is making fun of so many films, but it is still good as a stand alone. It is darkly fun! The ending "fight scene" had me rolling! Love it!

Borat (2006)

This is trash!

[2/10 · 11 December 2021]

This film is trash and tasteless. I swear if Sacha tried to kidnap someone more popular at the time such as Beyonce or Reese Witherspoon; this film would have been ruined before being released. HOWEVER, cause it was Pamela Anderson and at that time being rude and harmful towards her was allowed... we get this steaming pile accuse of a movie. On top of that problematic synopsis; this film it just one bad stereotypical joke after another. Why this film was ever celebrated is beyond me. Critics actually praised this film. Why?! I hated this film in 2006 and still hate it now.

The World's Most Amazing Vacation Rentals (2021)

You will fall in love with them

[8/10 · 1 July 2021]

When first watching this show, I thought it was just going to be another travel formulaic show. However, by episode 2 the viewer truly will fall in love with them: Jo, Luis, and Megan. They're chemistry and friendship really shines through, so one truly does enjoy the rentals because they do.

Your Highness (2011)

I adore this film!

[8/10 · 4 May 2021]

I honestly don't understand why this film's rating is so low?! It's 10 years old, but it is relevant. There are SO many fantasy films and shows nowadays, and they take themselves so seriously. I love how this film satirizes them all!!! It is a hilarious film with amazing actors who carry out the deliveries perfectly.

30 Rock (2006–2013)

Humorless

[2/10 · 29 March 2021]

I just don't get it. This show is not funny, and I feel like its editing is random. I feel like the scenes and skits (storylines) within the show should actually flow better or at least make sense. I feel like every time I have tried to watch this show that the show is literally skipping scenes ahead, but alas, no it is just awkwardly timed.

Michael Bolton's Big, Sexy Valentine's Day Special (2017 TV Special)

Oddity but enjoyable

[6/10 · 9 February 2021]

Michael Bolton is great in this special. If one loves Michael Bolton, you will love this. His singing is still amazing! Some of the skits are really funny (Carl Flossy), while some drag on a little too long (Cupid Shuffle). Just go into it with an open mind.

Ink Master (2012– )

Reality show NOT creative tattoo show

[3/10 · 21 January 2021]

As a woman who is covered in tattoos, I find this show insulting!!!

Real tattoo artists are respectful, cool, and TALENTED. I hope these "artists" are actors. I feel like this show is scripted, so I pray those human canvases are receiving fake tattoos. It isn't about the art of tattooing. It is seriously like Big Brother but with tattoos. It is bad! I gave it a 3 because it makes me laugh.

Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)

Pedro!

[5/10 · 3 January 2021]

The reason this rating is so high is because Pedro Pascal (Max Lord) does a great job with such a weird bad guy. I found myself rooting for him. He steals the show.

But...

The script, plot, and the rest of the cast was underwhelming. The action sequences underwhelming. The climax underwhelming. The "bad" guys were not threatening and get "redeemed" real quick. Also this story being set in 1984 did nothing for the message or overall tone. The tone changed a lot; I felt like the film couldn't decide what it was: action flick, family friendly, 80s satire, etc.

The Lobster (2015)

A lack of empathy does not equal dark comedy!

[1/10 · 4 August 2020]

I love dark comedies: Fargo, Dr. Strangelove..., Life of Brain, etc. but this film is not a dark comedy. It is just incredibly disturbing. There's no comedy, just darkness. Dark comedies have quirks to them and rules that make them such. People suffering is not comical. Deadpan absurdly used while implicit violence is happening is not genius. The shock value is not brilliant. It is a nulling and lacks imagination. I am even more annoyed that this won critics over. I HATED this film.

Summerland (I) (2020)

Superb!

[10/10 · 2 August 2020]

I rarely write reviews, but was alarmed to see this film have such a low rating. This film has amazing acting; everyone truly is their character. Gemma is Alice! It is a sweet story among an unsweet time, and beautiful scenery will take your breathe away. I truly loved it!

Cats (2019)

It is bad.

[2/10 · 23 April 2020]

Y'all, at first I thought people were just being mean and over exaggerating... but this film is sincerely bad. The CGI is bad. Rebel Wilson's character gets some of the worst scenes ever created. Some songs go on FURever!! I had to.

The reason I gave it a 2, however, Jennifer Hudson's rendition of Memory brought actual emotion to the screen.