pedroquintaoo Reviews

The Strangers: Chapter 1 (2024)

Tension and Clichés: A Divided Experience with 'The Strangers: Chapter 1

[5/10 · 21 May 2024]

"The Strangers: Chapter 1" was an experience that left me somewhat divided. On one hand, the tension and the way the film manipulates our anxiety deserve some credit. The director, who also directed "A Nightmare on Elm Street 4," my favorite movie of that saga, managed to create an atmosphere that, at several moments, made me feel tense.

The cinematography is one of the highlights, with well-thought-out framing and lighting that accentuates the sense of horror and despair. However, despite these positive aspects, the film falls into some horror genre clichés, which ultimately limit it.

Most of my dissatisfaction lies with the protagonists and their actions. The couple not only lacks chemistry, but their decisions are downright foolish. It's frustrating to watch these characters make completely irrational choices. One example is when they choose to hide inside the house instead of escaping outside. This lack of intelligence in their actions breaks the immersion and makes it hard to empathize with the characters, as it's difficult to root for someone who constantly seems to be courting a tragic fate at the hands of the three masked killers.

Another point I can't overlook is the post-credits scene. To me, it didn't make much sense and seemed completely unnecessary. Instead of adding an intriguing cliffhanger for the upcoming chapters, it only served to show a clumsy, senseless moment without a clear purpose.

Despite its flaws, "The Strangers: Chapter 1" still offers decent entertainment for those looking for a horror film to distract them for 90 minutes. The basic premise is effective, and the technical execution of the film is competent. I sincerely hope that the future parts surprise us and take the narrative to different levels, avoiding the mistakes made in this first chapter.

In summary, "The Strangers: Chapter 1" is a film that has its moments of brilliance but is hindered by clichés and unintelligent characters. However, the quality of the cinematography and the ability to generate anxiety are reasons enough to justify a viewing. I am hopeful that the sequels will add something new and redeem the weaker aspects of this beginning.

Mortal Kombat (1995)

A trip to the cringiest and campiest side of the 90s

[5/10 · 16 May 2024]

"Mortal Kombat" is a true masterpiece of mediocrity, a classic example of something so bad that it ends up being good, taking us back to a time when dubious special effects, poorly choreographed fight scenes, and mediocre acting combined to create something incredibly bad and entertaining.

From the moment the iconic theme music starts playing, it's clear we're about to embark on a unique journey, like a roller coaster through the cringe-worthy side of the 90s. It feels as though the movie was produced with the budget of an episode of "Power Rangers" from the same decade. Just like in the games, the storyline doesn't innovate, but in this case, it manages to be even worse.

The sets look like they came straight out of a second-rate theme park. The special effects are so bad they border on hilarious, and there are moments when it seems the producers simply gave up on trying to make anything remotely believable. And then we have the acting, completed by dialogues so bad they've become iconic.

However, it's precisely this combination of disastrous elements that makes "Mortal Kombat" such a memorable experience. It's a trip to the cringiest and campiest side of the 90s, a period when technology hadn't yet evolved to support the ambitions of various film studios.

So, there's nothing in the movie that I can point to and say "this is really good," but that's exactly why "Mortal Kombat" has established itself as a sort of cult classic. An example of how, sometimes, fun can be found where we least expect it.

Paddington (2014)

It made me want to adopt that bear

[8/10 · 9 May 2024]

"Paddington" had been on my watchlist for years, but it wasn't until recently that I decided to give it a watch, and it turned out to be a really positive experience. From the get-go, I was captivated by this light-hearted production, perfect for unwinding either on your own or with family.

The protagonist, the adorable Paddington bear, won me over right from the start, and I found myself rooting for him to succeed in his mission to find a home in this new, unfamiliar reality. The technical work put into bringing this character to life was impressive; he seemed remarkably realistic, and I felt a strong desire to hug him and welcome him into my own family.

However, I can't overlook some shortcomings. The lack of development for the supporting characters, especially the British family that takes in Paddington, was a downside for me. While some of them provided enjoyable moments, I felt they weren't fully explored, preventing the audience from forming a deeper connection with them. This is typically crucial in similar films, like "Stuart Little" or "Clifford."

Another negative observation, perhaps a bit nitpicky on my part, is how it seems odd that all the residents of London react so calmly to encountering Paddington, a talking bear, as if it's perfectly normal to see such a sight in the middle of the city. While suspension of disbelief is necessary in films like this, the lack of realistic reactions from secondary characters can feel forced and detract from the immersion in the story.

Despite these less-than-positive points, I really enjoyed this production. It was fun, charming, and left me feeling fond of the lovable Paddington bear. I highly recommend it for family viewing, especially to introduce it to younger viewers who will undoubtedly love the adventures of this friendly bear and the valuable lessons he teaches us along his simple journey.

Abigail (2024)

A funny horror movie

[7/10 · 9 May 2024]

"Abigail," the latest film from the Radio Silence duo, quickly drew me into a plot that fulfilled its promised purpose: to be fun and entertain me from start to finish. The premise is intriguing, introducing a group of thieves/kidnappers who unexpectedly encounter a childlike vampire, leading to a series of exhilarating chases and gory moments, spiced with effective jokes and well-written dialogue.

The film starts promisingly, taking time to introduce the main characters and establish the group dynamics. Usually, I don't feel empathy for criminals in movies, but in this case, it's impossible not to like most of them, as they all have backgrounds that support them, are entertaining, and have a moral code, making each death in "Abigail" hard to digest.

We're faced with a dynamic, fun, and captivating work, but it's only after about 40 minutes that the real action and tension begin, starting a cat-and-mouse game that reminded me of another film of the same genre by the same directors, namely "Ready or Not" (though I found "Abigail" slightly inferior).

The frenetic chases and suspenseful moments are the highlights of "Abigail," keeping me engaged, and it's in these scenes that we see how the villain, despite her childlike appearance, can be threatening and even a bit scary. However, as the film progresses to its third act, writing problems start to emerge, affecting the overall experience. Characters undergo abrupt personality changes, making the narrative forced and inconsistent. Additionally, there are small errors that bothered me, like the scene where the characters are trapped in the mansion, and a pair goes to a corridor made of thin wooden panels, where they could easily escape with a simple kick. I just wanted to jump into the film and shout, "DESTROY THE DAMN WOODEN WALL AND GET OUT OF THERE." Another minor issue was the ending, which seemed predictable from the start.

Despite some setbacks, "Abigail" fulfills its purpose of entertaining and eliciting laughter from those seeking distraction for 110 minutes. It's not the best horror film of the year, nor do I believe it has the strength to become a classic or a reference within the genre, but it's still worth watching for its contagious energy and fun moments, which is undoubtedly due to the charisma of the Radio Silence duo, who always know how to capture the audience's attention.

Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

One of the best action movies ever made

[10/10 · 7 May 2024]

Watching "Mad Max: Fury Road" at the theater was a truly amazing experience. Watching it again at home isn't quite as powerful, but stills being fantastic. From the very beginning to the last scene, I was completely immersed in this wild and intense world created by George Miller. I think this movie is a real masterpiece, and it's not hard to see why.

The cinematography is breathtaking, the best I've seen in an action movie. Every scene is carefully shot and choreographed, resulting in a visual spectacle that's simply stunning. The deserts, cars, costumes, character looks, and color contrasts make this world unforgettable. It's one of those rare movies where every frame could be in an art gallery.

The soundtrack is amazing, taking the action to a whole new level. Every beat drives the story and the intensity of the action scenes, pumping up the excitement to the max. It's a truly unforgettable auditory experience.

And as for the story, I'd call it simple but spectacular. George Miller tells an exciting tale at a fast pace that never lets the audience rest. From the moment the action kicks off to the climax, there's not a dull moment. It's a rollercoaster that keeps us glued to the screen from start to finish.

But it's in the action scenes where the movie really shines. They're all simply epic, the most mind-blowing I've ever seen in cinema. The fight choreography and the car chases are masterful and breathtaking. Every stunt and explosion is done in an unmatched way.

In the end, "Mad Max: Fury Road" is more than just an action movie; it's an example of how to create a true cinematic masterpiece. It's one of those rare films that manages to be both visually stunning and narratively engaging. Alongside "Terminator 2," it's without a doubt one of the best action movies I've ever seen and an experience that no one should miss.

You'll Never Find Me (2023)

Another movie ruined by the ending

[5/10 · 5 May 2024]

I watched "You'll Never Find Me" without knowing anything about the movie. Right from the start, the story led me into its main theme without hesitation, immersing me in uncertainty about the secrets the two strangers were hiding. Intriguing questions filled my mind: were they telling the truth or lying? Where would this all lead? Could the real villain be outside that caravan park?

This film creates a strong sense of suspicion and unease for about 80% of its duration. It's not for everyone, being a slow burn, possibly one of the slowest movies I've seen, set mostly in one location. However, it relies on strong dialogues that enhance the mystery and suspense, keeping us hooked until the end of that stormy night.

Speaking of the storm, "You'll Never Find Me" is immersive and quite atmospheric, perfect for a rainy night. The sounds of rain and wind make it an immersive experience.

Meanwhile, "You'll Never Find Me" reminded me of "Late Night With The Devil," as all the narrative work was destroyed by a poor ending. Well-written and captivating dialogues built my expectation for an intelligent and unexpected plot twist. Unfortunately, the movie opted for a predictable turn, making me question: "Did the movie really go this way or does it have another surprise in store?" Still, I held onto hope that the ending would be satisfying, but it turned out to be empty and bittersweet, perhaps closer to bitter.

It's disappointing to see a slow burn with so much potential go to waste. However, I still recommend giving this film a chance, especially if you're looking for something different from the typical thriller and horror scenes.

Tarot (I) (2024)

Another mediocre PG-13 horror film

[5/10 · 2 May 2024]

"Tarot" promised to be a breath of fresh air in the horror genre, bringing with it an intriguing concept that harkened back to the iconic "Final Destination" saga. However, it quickly proved to be hindered by its own limitations, resulting in an experience that, while entertaining, falls short of expectations.

From the moment I watched the trailer, I was intrigued by the premise of young people trying to escape a fatal destiny, immediately bringing to mind "Final Destination," one of my favorite horror franchises. However, my hopes were dashed when I learned that the film was rated PG-13, indicating that deaths would be censored to allow a younger audience to watch the film in theaters and thus generate greater financial profits. Violence isn't always crucial in a horror film; there are works that don't need it to be good, like "Insidious," "The Ring," or the fantastic "The Others," but in this case, it was necessary to ensure a complete experience. And as predicted, despite the potential in the horror scenes, I felt that it was all wasted.

The same sense of wasted potential also accompanies the film's narrative, which is rushed and superficial, sacrificing character development for a fast-paced rhythm, making it difficult to create an emotional connection with the characters, depriving us of empathy that could enrich our experience. An additional ten or fifteen minutes dedicated to character development would have been beneficial, providing greater psychological and motivational depth.

Despite these shortcomings, "Tarot" has its merits. The film manages to keep us captivated until the end, eager to discover the fate reserved for the characters and whether they will be able to change the course dictated by the tarot cards. Additionally, the visual of the creatures inspired by the tarot figures is one of the highlights, it's just a shame they didn't have a greater presence on screen.

However, it's in the final moments that "Tarot" truly reveals its wasted potential. The revelation of the origin of the cursed deck and the confrontation with the vengeful spirit are intriguing, but the way the characters deal with this situation seems unconvincing and even frustrating. The ending, in particular, feels forced and unsatisfactory, almost reminiscent of a parody rather than a genuinely tense and frightening moment.

In summary, "Tarot" had all the ingredients to stand out as a kind of cousin or even a worthy spiritual successor to "Final Destination" and impress fans of the horror genre. However, by choosing to stay in its comfort zone and not risk beyond established limits, it ended up confined to mediocrity, becoming just another generic horror title, suitable for a relaxed night among friends, but unable to leave a mark on the horror film landscape.

(SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS) Regarding the ending, we discover that the cursed tarot deck, used by the protagonists to read their destiny, was created many years ago by a psychic. This psychic created it to seek revenge against those who murdered her daughter, and near the end, her spirit appears to torment them. It was at this point that I questioned: "If the deck curses the person they read the cards for, why don't the characters do it with the psychic who cursed them?" I ended up feeling annoyed that it took them so long to do it, making them seem unintelligent.

Additionally, in this spoiler segment, I was surprised by how they revealed that Jacob Batalon's character survived. It seemed a bit forced, exaggerated, and out of place from the rest of the tone of the work. In fact, at that moment, I felt like I was watching a scene from "Scary Movie."

Fallout: The Beginning (2024) Season 1, Episode 8

The purest example of how a videogame adaptation should be

[9/10 · 2 May 2024]

I started watching "Fallout" with a mix of skepticism and curiosity. I usually avoid series because I tend to get tired of them quickly, so I went into "Fallout" with low expectations. However, I quickly became fascinated in a way I hadn't experienced with a series in a long time. This production not only respects the key elements of the video games it adapts but also integrates them into the narrative in a genuinely engaging and respectful manner. As a fan of the games, it was a relief and a joy to see the universe I admire so much being adapted so competently.

One of "Fallout's" greatest achievements is its narrative. Full of intense plots and captivating characters, the series grips us from the first episode. The three protagonists, each with their own story and personal motivations, intertwine organically, creating a web of intrigue that keeps us eager to uncover their outcomes. The solid and striking performances by the actors significantly contribute to this immersion, bringing the characters to life in such a natural way.

Visually, "Fallout" is a masterpiece. Although it has a more colorful tone than the games, the settings and characterizations remain faithful to the identity established by the saga. Every detail, from the post-apocalyptic wreckage to the retro-futuristic attire, the dystopian and perilous world, but also the music, presents everything that fans of the games love so much.

In the end, "Fallout" is more than just a video game adaptation; it's a lesson in how to honor and expand an intellectual property. With an engaging narrative, high-level performances, and stunning visual aesthetics, the series proves to be a magnificent experience that satisfies both longtime fans and a new audience. It's the purest example of how videogame adaptations should be.

American Horror Story: The Auteur (2024) Season 12, Episode 9

Awful Horror Story

[1/10 · 30 April 2024]

My experience with "American Horror Story: Delicate" started with a dose of excitement. The concept seemed promising, immersing us in a new plot full of mystery and psychological terror. Initially, the whole situation around the protagonist (Emma Roberts) conveyed a genuine sense of panic and mistrust, creating a tense and engaging atmosphere.

However, as the season progressed, that initial promise faded away. The subsequent episodes seemed to follow a predictable formula, repeating incessantly in moments that, instead of building suspense, bored the viewer due to the repetition of the same suspenseful elements. There were about 4 or 5 episodes where we only saw the protagonist dealing with surreal situations and doubting her sanity.

Amidst this sea of repetition, it was Kim Kardashian who surprised me. Her presence in the series was undoubtedly the big trump card (if not the only one), treating us to a solid and striking performance. Kim managed to bring to life a complex and interesting character, keeping our attention whenever she appeared on screen.

However, not even Kim Kardashian was enough to save "AHS: Delicate" from failure, as the character's fate became predictable. As we approached the end, the plot seemed increasingly rushed and absolutely disconnected from the "AHS" universe. Moments that were supposed to be shocking and surprising ended up being ridiculous and predictable, culminating in a finale that seemed more like something out of a parody.

Moreover, it's hard to ignore how the series lost its artistic identity over time. The grandiose cast, unpredictable plot twists, and impressive artistic direction that characterized "American Horror Story" gave way to a sense of low-budget production. Quality gave way to mediocrity.

Monkey Man (2024)

Better than John Wick

[8/10 · 29 April 2024]

"Monkey Man" is a movie that plunges us into an exciting journey of revenge. The plot grabs our attention from beginning to end. One of its main strengths is the non-stop action, filled with adrenaline-pumping fight scenes that kick off around the 30-minute mark and hardly ever let up.

It's impossible not to compare it to "John Wick", and truth be told, I preferred the experience of "Monkey Man". It chose to stand alone as a film, without the ambition or greed of becoming a saga with open-ended movies, which is increasingly rare in today's action cinema. The violence is portrayed in a raw and realistic manner. There are deaths that surprised me, considering it's from a major studio like Universal. It may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it definitely adds to the intensity of the story.

Dev Patel's direction stands out, especially considering this is his debut feature film. He brings an evident artistic vision to each scene. I feel like we're witnessing a budding director with a lot of potential to offer.

However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The ending felt a bit abrupt to me, and I didn't appreciate some editing flaws, particularly concerning the flashbacks. At times, these flashbacks disrupt the viewer's immersion. I believe a different approach to contextualizing these scenes could have been more effective and helped maintain narrative cohesion.

In conclusion, "Monkey Man" is an excellent and must-see work for action movie fans seeking an exciting and visceral experience. Despite some minor flaws, the film delivers on its promises and stands out as a worthy piece of cinema.

Jason X (2001)

Funny but really bad

[3/10 · 25 April 2024]

"Jason X" takes the iconic killer Jason Voorhees to space, providing an unexpected twist in the "Friday the 13th" saga. Its creative and absurd approach makes it so campy and bad that it becomes fun to watch, even though at the end of the experience, we may question what we just saw. Additionally, it features creative deaths, like the face frozen in nitrogen and the Crystal Lake camp simulation.

However, the story is predictable, fails to create effective suspense, the characters are underdeveloped, and the dialogues are simplistic and superficial. In summary, despite its potential, "Jason X" is hindered by a weak plot and lack of depth in various aspects, resulting in a mediocre cinematic experience.

Late Night with the Devil (2023)

Amazing until the third act

[6/10 · 22 April 2024]

I loved the originality of "Late Night With the Devil," which feels like a lost episode of a 1970s talk show, blending horror and mockumentary. The authentic atmosphere of the era was captured flawlessly, transporting me back in time. The costumes, sets, and photography also added to the immersive and unique experience.

The performances of David Dastmalchian and Ingrid Torelli were outstanding, with Dastmalchian shining as a convincing TV host and Torelli delivering a chilling portrayal as the possessed girl. Moreover, "Late Night With the Devil" offers a realistic and terrifying portrayal of Satanism, unlike more superficial depictions seen in current cinema like "The First Omen."

However, while I wasn't bored at any point, I acknowledge that it might be a bit slow for fans of more mainstream horror. Unfortunately, the third act didn't live up to expectations, with an anticlimactic and overly expositional climax that detracted from the tension built up earlier. Additionally, the use of CGI, especially in the final scenes, was disappointing, giving the film a campy feel and undermining the previously established immersion.

Not Another Teen Movie (2001)

Reminds me my pre-teen years

[7/10 · 13 April 2024]

"Not Another Teen Movie" is one of those films that takes me straight back to my pre-teen years. I remember sneaking to watch it away from my family because of the sexual jokes and graphic nudity, which made me feel like I was doing something forbidden back then. However, revisiting this movie, I ended up rediscovering a certain nostalgic pleasure.

The film stands out for its ability to satirize and parody the clichés of teen movies, which were so popular in the 80s and 90s. It's fun trying to catch the references to popular works in each scene.

Although they're not their best roles, I found the cast charismatic, delivering exaggerated yet enjoyable performances. Chris Evans, in particular, surprised me in a comedic role.

The soundtrack helped define the humor and atmosphere of each scene, making the experience more engaging. Often, it also helped us identify less obvious references to movies being satirized.

The humor of the film is irreverent and doesn't always hit the mark, but I had fun with its audacity and its critiques of the clichés and mistakes of the film industry itself. However, there are jokes that haven't aged well and seemed out of place, even for the time when the movie was released.

However, like many movies in this subgenre, "Not Another Teen Movie" lacks emotional depth and character development. I believe cutting out some nonsensical moments and using that time to deepen the main characters would have been beneficial and could have immortalized the film within the comedy genre of the 2000s.

The First Omen (2024)

Nice film but I was expecting more

[6/10 · 10 April 2024]

"The First Omen" presents itself as a technically well-produced film, with a decent budget evident in its sets and successfully recreated atmosphere of the 1970s, providing a visually appealing experience. The soundtrack and sound effects also stand out, using characteristic sounds of the era to build the temporal setting of the work. The performances of the actors, especially Nell Tiger Free and Nicole Sorace, are convincing. Despite the plot about the Antichrist and diabolical pregnancy not bringing anything new to the horror genre, the film manages to entertain the viewer solidly and competently.

However, I found it difficult to fully engage with the narrative, unlike what happened with the film "Immaculate." And although "The First Omen" is competent, it doesn't stand out enough to distinguish itself from other works in the horror genre.

SPOILERS The explanation that the church is creating the Antichrist and the revelation that the protagonist is the daughter of the devil are aspects that do not fit cohesively into the plot, resulting in a confusing explanation that hampers the narrative development. Additionally, the revelation of the protagonist's origin ends up being predictable due to the clues left throughout the film, reducing the emotional impact of the revelation. For example: the lack of contextualization about the protagonist's past and the evident clues of her demonic origins contribute to a less impactful revelation.

Muriel's Wedding (1994)

Strong... But not strong enough to be a masterpiece

[7/10 · 10 April 2024]

"Muriel's Wedding" is a film known for its unique and sometimes dark humor. The main character, Muriel, portrayed magnificently by a young Toni Collette, finds herself in absurd and hilarious situations while the film also touches on themes like friendship, love, family, life goals, and self-discovery, although not delving deeply into them.

The cast, especially Toni Collette, Rachel Griffiths, and Bill Hunter, deliver brilliant performances, captivating us in every scene. The soundtrack, featuring ABBA's hits, fits perfectly with the film's atmosphere, providing a nostalgic feeling and contributing to the characterization of the protagonist.

However, the film may not appeal to some viewers due to its eccentricity. Additionally, the second half of the story seems to lose a bit of momentum, deviating from the initial excitement.

While it was strong enough to establish itself as a cult film, "Muriel's Wedding" didn't quite reach the status of a timeless classic.

Beetlejuice (1988)

I was expecting more about Beetljuice himself

[8/10 · 8 April 2024]

"Beetlejuice" stands out for its originality and irreverent humor. Tim Burton created a surreal world populated by unique ghosts and supernatural beings, providing a captivating cinematic experience. The cast delivers memorable performances, with Michael Keaton shining in the eccentric role of Beetlejuice, although his screen time is less than expected. Winona Ryder also shines as Lydia, while Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin offer natural chemistry. The artistic direction is stunning, with gothic and eccentric settings contributing to a fantastic atmosphere, characteristic of Tim Burton's style. However, one of the film's weaknesses is the lack of development of the villain, Beetlejuice, resulting in a lack of depth that may disappoint viewers. Nevertheless, "Beetlejuice" still manages to hold attention and provide memorable moments, though it leaves the feeling that it could have been a more impactful experience.

Lisa Frankenstein (2024)

Pointless and annoying

[3/10 · 3 April 2024]

"Lisa Frankenstein" features a soundtrack filled with late 20th-century hits, attempting to uplift the film. While the music brings a nostalgic touch to the story, it gets lost amidst the chaos and confusion that dominate the narrative.

Amidst the turmoil of this low-budget production, with its limited plot and questionable characters, Liza Soberano stands out with an empathetic character, providing the audience with a point of connection.

However, the film has significant drawbacks. The villain lacks psychological depth, relegated to a stereotypical role with an unconvincing relationship with an undead character. Despite her talent, Kathryn Newton delivers one of the worst performances of her career, portraying an extremely irritating character. Moreover, the plot is weak, a clumsy mix of other films like "Warm Bodies" and "Jennifer's Body" without capturing their best features. Overall, it's a frustrating and uninteresting experience.

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024)

Good action, forgettable plot

[6/10 · 2 April 2024]

"Godzilla X Kong 2" is a movie that grabs the attention of action fans with its stunning visuals and epic showdowns between giant creatures. The visual effects are mind-blowing, especially in how they portray the battles and the aftermath of destruction caused by these titans. While the film doesn't aim to break new ground, it does provide an experience that allows viewers to switch off their brains for two hours, which can be a plus for those just looking to be entertained.

However, it falls short in delivering emotional depth or a gripping storyline, unlike the Japanese film "Godzilla Minus One." The human characters are one-dimensional and easily forgettable, failing to leave a lasting impression on the audience. The villain is also weak and lacking in menace, missing the qualities needed to stand out as a true antagonist. In summary, "Godzilla X Kong 2" is a visual spectacle that, while offering momentary fun, lacks memorability and fails to evoke a lasting emotional impact.

Immaculate (2024)

I wasn't expecting this

[9/10 · 31 March 2024]

"Immaculate" is a horror film that stands out for its competent and engaging direction. From the very beginning, we are captivated by the dense and mysterious atmosphere present in the convent where the story unfolds. The intriguing plot keeps the audience hooked until the end, with twists and turns that fuel curiosity and the desire to uncover its secrets.

The film doesn't shy away from showing horror and gore scenes, offering moments of graphic violence that are not just gratuitous but also contribute to the authenticity of the most disturbing scenes. Sydney Sweeney's performance is impressive, especially in the climax, where she shines as a true "scream queen".

Furthermore, it delves deep into religious themes, exploring their darker and more controversial aspects, making it a much more satisfying nun-themed horror film than some previous productions like "The Nun".

However, the film falters in explaining the main mystery, leaving loose ends and unanswered questions. If this aspect were better developed, "Immaculate" could become a classic of modern horror cinema.

Damsel (2024)

Nice

[7/10 · 29 March 2024]

The movie, while not bringing innovations to the action and fantasy genres, manages to fulfill its purpose of entertaining until the end, offering a solid and captivating work. The impressive visual of the dragon stands out, capable of conveying scary and threatening moments. Millie Bobby Brown demonstrates her versatility beyond "Stranger Things," although her performance isn't the best of her career, showing comfort in the action genre. Compared to other Netflix productions, the film stands out positively. However, the third act falls short, especially in the narrative arcs of secondary characters, with a retaliation that feels rushed and not very epic.

Infested (2023)

A nightmare for arachnophobes

[8/10 · 18 March 2024]

Overall, "Vermines" delivers top-notch editing that keeps the viewer engaged from start to finish. The character development is well-crafted, building up to a frenetic pace that holds your attention until the end. For arachnophobes, this film can push the boundaries of their fears, even for those who aren't afraid of spiders, like myself. The characters, coming from a lower class background, are fleshed out throughout the story, making it easy to connect with them. Surprisingly, even for someone who isn't a fan of hip-hop/rap, the predominantly urban music soundtrack adds to the film's vibe. "Vermines" can be likened to "REC", swapping out zombies for spiders in a building. While not groundbreaking, it achieves its goal of entertaining and delivering horror at certain moments. However, it could have pushed for more intense and impactful moments, especially to ramp up the suspense. The third act, while not weak, leaves something to be desired in terms of a more memorable and epic conclusion.

Imaginary (2024)

Entertaining but forgettable

[6/10 · 12 March 2024]

The story revolves around the intriguing concept of an imaginary friend turning into a real and potentially dangerous entity, delving into fascinating ideas, especially the mythology surrounding imaginary friends.

While "Imaginary" may not stand out for innovation, it successfully creates suspenseful and tense moments, offering an engaging experience. DeWanda Wise delivers a captivating performance, making it easy to form a sentimental connection with her character, who strives to carry the film.

I particularly enjoyed the third act, drawing inspiration from "Insidious" and surprising with unexpected twists. However, the film falls short of fully realizing its promising potential. The narrative becomes repetitive and predictable at times, and the pacing fluctuates between slow and rushed, hindered by a slightly light and juvenile tone.

The excessive use of horror genre clichés, such as cheap scares, hinders the originality and memorability of the experience. While it serves as valid entertainment, "Imaginary" fails to effectively harness its creativity, risking becoming a easily forgettable work.

Dream Scenario (2023)

Good film but could be better

[7/10 · 5 March 2024]

I find the idea of a man appearing in the dreams of millions of people extremely original, marking another impressive creative endeavor by A24. The exploration of "cancel culture" in the plot, where the protagonist is canceled for something beyond his control, leads him into a negative spiral that deeply impacts his life, offering an intriguing reflection.

Even though the film is a bit slow, I didn't find it boring because the unusual concept of the protagonist's "gift" sparked my curiosity. I applaud Nicolas Cage for delivering a solid and convincing performance, showcasing once again his versatility as an actor. The dream/nightmare sequences are particularly enjoyable, adding a creative touch of humor or horror to the movie.

In terms of drawbacks, I highlight an early plot twist that shifts the direction of the film, interrupting the interesting development of the initial part. The third act is criticized for having an anticlimactic ending, leaving me with the feeling of "is it already over like this?" I express a desire for more dream/nightmare moments throughout the film, as these were loved but abandoned in the narrative development.

Despite my enjoyment, I had hoped the film would leave a more lasting impression, considering its potential, but I believe it lacks the necessary strength to establish itself as a masterpiece.

Dune: Part Two (2024)

I loved and I hated it

[6/10 · 3 March 2024]

"Dune: Part 2" is notable for its flawless technical quality, featuring magnificent cinematography and stunning visual effects that create a genuine visual spectacle. The epic soundtrack by Hans Zimmer perfectly complements the cinematic experience, contributing to the grand atmosphere of the film.

Denis Villeneuve demonstrates technical competence, reaching a level of excellence in the cinematic field. For science fiction enthusiasts, the film is an excellent piece to fill their time.

However, my main criticism centers on the complex narrative, rich in details and characters, making it challenging for those unfamiliar with the Dune universe. Despite being initially engaging, the plot became confusing amidst intrigues and actions, leaving me lost. The final part of the film raised questions about the characters' motivations, hindering the clarity of the story.

The nearly three-hour duration felt rushed in some scenes, reminiscent of the last season of "Game of Thrones," where resolutions were quick, lacking time for reflection. Perhaps a slower approach, possibly divided into two parts, would have benefited the narrative.

The character development was disappointing, as I couldn't establish emotional connections with them. Their fate became indifferent, and only Chani managed to evoke a slight emotional bond.

The villains, especially Feyd-Rautha, seemed to have potential but were not portrayed as true threats. The treatment they received was considered inadequate, impacting the construction of the antagonism.

Leo (I) (2023)

Interesting but has some issues

[6/10 · 29 February 2024]

The story has a lovely foundation, providing beautiful moments that provoke reflection. I highlight the presence of iconic characters, including some children who remind me of childhood friends. I believe "Leo" delivers a satire that resonates with all of us. The humor in the work is something I greatly enjoyed. I was even surprised by some more adult jokes, with funny phrases and moments that appeal to both kids and adults. However, the almost episodic format of the plot leaves the work with a lightness that prevents it from delivering an absolutely impactful lesson. Throughout the movie, there's a succession of similar actions: Leo goes to a student's house and imparts a lesson, then repeats the process. I was expecting a more intimate, simple, and touching journey. Despite addressing themes like aging, growth, and self-confidence, the film doesn't delve deeply into them. It ends up getting lost between the "silly comedy" and the "coming of age" tone in some scenes.