I appreciate the originality of this work, but even more so how it solicited from the original story, expanding what I would have imagined the beginning to be. We don't get a new tour of Wonka's factory when he was young. Instead, we find him neck-deep in trouble from the moment he steps ashore, after his seven year ocean journey. Something inside me wanted him to hurry up and get through his troubles so we could see the Willy Wonka Magic, as I remember the original feeling. However, this story is about the journey, and how Willy uses those trials to help those around him, find that answered promise his mother gave him, and launch his spectacular chocolate career. Other stories may stick close to the originals, not wanting to stretch out there too far into the fantasy realm. But this one pulled the stops and transcended my expectations. Timothée Chalamet was the perfect fit for the movie lead, and he certainly does not disappoint. Highly recommended.
Reviews
21 Reviews
The Marvels
(2023)
A let down
9 February 2024
Was looking forward to this one, but it struck out on so many levels. The characters were not cast as strong individuals, but so often weak and silly that it did them (the actors) an injustice. At one point the "comedy" devolved into plain silliness in such a way that it broke the story down, and threatened to change the direction. I kept looking at the clock, wondering how much longer I was going to be able to watch this. I did finish the movie, hoping in some way it could redeem itself. But it didn't. I liked the first Captain Marvel movie where there was a strong character. But this story was weak, diluted, and didn't manage to make me care what would happen in the end.
Good Film
12 January 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts adds a freshness to the series, a different threat, and takes us back to the 1990s (and the associated pop music), before all the alliances with humans were intact. Of course we meet new transformer-type of aliens with their own sense of humor and powers. Our main unemployed hero has a younger brother with a serious medical condition, and our heroine is a very knowledgeable individual in ancient artifacts, and employed as a lowly intern. But together they help the Transformers save the world and universe as we know it. Good funny parts, and heart warming ones as well. Nice escapist type of movie. Highly recommended.
Candy Cane Lane
(I) (2023)
Refreshing and New Story for the Christmas Season
28 December 2023
Every year we see the same Christmas movies that have done well in the past. They are vaunted each year with advertisements, and some even run 24/7 around the holidays (Christmas Story anyone?). But after a while, they get stale. I mean, how many times am I going to watch Elf before the magic disappears forever? And there are some movies I simply don't watch anymore, because of this. So it was a pleasant surprise to find Candy Cane Lane: it is fresh, new, funny, and heart-warming. Eddie Murphy was awesome of course, as were the other stars, and I look forward to seeing this one again next year. I can imagine that Candy Cane Lane will likely fall into the "watch every year" type that Miracle on 34th Street, Elf, Christmas With the Kranks, etc., etc. Are placed. But at least for now, this movie is different and new. I hope more stories like these continue to come out.
We Have a Ghost
(2023)
Fun family entertainment with heart
28 March 2023
This was a pleasant surprise I watched on Netflix. I never heard of the movie before and decided to give it a watch. This turned out to be a great movie night experience. Full of humor, social media, drama, mystery, and some action scenes, the story will take you on a roller coaster ride of laughter and maybe even a tear or two. The main character is excellent and provides a solid and heartfelt performance, along with the rest of the lead cast. The storyline is solid, reminding me a little of movies like Ghost Busters, or even Ghost. I hope they continue to make movies like these. I highly recommend this movie.
My Dead Dad
(2021)
Gritty, engaging and realistic
14 June 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Pedro Correa plays the son of a father who recently passes away. Lucas inherits the estate. Problem is, there's no relationship over the past 15 years. More like abandonment. In deciding what to do with the property, Lucas finds out more about his dad, causing him to deal with the pain he has kept inside all those years. I thought Correa's acting was so well done it made me think this could have been a reality show. The heartfelt emotion pulses through the story, and the ending was a good one. For an independent film, I was pleasantly surprised and look forward to more from this actor. Recommended.
Arctic
(2018)
Okay movie
24 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I thought it was okay. We start out with the main character already surviving in his plane that crashed, so it skipped a potentially exciting part (likely due to budgets); he sticks around until a rescue copter suddenly and out of the blue "finds" him, but then it crashes and our hero has to take care of one who survives the crash. More cold weather ensues, along with the drama, that sometimes is too much for my taste. And at the end, the climax happens and we see nothing of what follows. Typical of these types of movies, but that part was disappointing.
Maleficent: Mistress of Evil
(2019)
Disney hits it out of the Park
27 July 2020
When I first heard of this movie, honestly I thought, meh. Here comes another retread of a lame story just to cycle in the story (or even extend it) to yet another generation.
Boy, was I wrong, and I am glad to admit it. This is so unlike what I was expecting that it turned the story on its ear. We learn more of the backstory and origins of Maleficent's kind, as well as the true intent of the royals who are welcoming Aurora into their family.
I won't give spoilers and I suggest you don't let anyone take away the story from your enjoyment by learning too much before you watch it. But if you enjoy fantasy, action, and lots of comedy, then i think this movie is for you.
Boy, was I wrong, and I am glad to admit it. This is so unlike what I was expecting that it turned the story on its ear. We learn more of the backstory and origins of Maleficent's kind, as well as the true intent of the royals who are welcoming Aurora into their family.
I won't give spoilers and I suggest you don't let anyone take away the story from your enjoyment by learning too much before you watch it. But if you enjoy fantasy, action, and lots of comedy, then i think this movie is for you.
Another wonderful magical world experience of JK Rowling
24 November 2018
This movie was excellent in most every regard. It felt like I was plunged into yet another chapter of the magical world that Rowling has so successfully and imaginatively created. Her imagination seems to know no bounds. Our main characters move forward, as does the villainous Grindelwald, and more secrets are laid bare. But you really have to see the first episode in order to understand what is going on, as the movie does not do well standing on its own without a reference point. And I have no problem with that because there is no reason to go backward and re-explain everything, and it would take away from the plots and subplots presented. I appreciated how, though it had its dark parts, still it is not as violent as parts of the later Harry Potter films. You can tell what is happening but it is done without the unneeded gore. The only problem I had was Jude Law playing Dumbledore. I am a fan of his other movies, but for me, the Dumbledore I connected with in the Harry Potter films and this one didn't quite come together. Too many of the old wizard's idiosyncrasies seemed to be missing. However, I account this as personal taste only-he did an excellent job in the acting, as usual. Great movie and highly recommended.
Blade Runner 2049
(2017)
Umm....no....
21 October 2017
Warning: Spoilers
I can't recall before today the last time I went out of a movie to refill my popcorn bucket, knowing full well that I wouldn't miss a thing. And I was right. Having seen the original years back, I knew this could not be a successful followup (if that was the intent) simply because the movies are separated by time and generations of viewers. Better to kickstart a new concept and go from there.
Which they did. Sort of. But unfortunately the pacing of the movie was so slow that there was essentially no tension buildup, except for the few parts where suddenly the music gets blast-ing-ly loud.
The scenes of a dead world are consistent of this type of movie, and the special effects were good, but where was the story? What was the point? And then the end falls flat where ***SPOILER ALERT*** Dad finally meets Daughter. I mean, the rest of the story was so and overly developed, but this part just ended. Stopped right there.
So, I'd pass on this one. I thought the trailer was good, the the promises were not kept, at least for me.
Which they did. Sort of. But unfortunately the pacing of the movie was so slow that there was essentially no tension buildup, except for the few parts where suddenly the music gets blast-ing-ly loud.
The scenes of a dead world are consistent of this type of movie, and the special effects were good, but where was the story? What was the point? And then the end falls flat where ***SPOILER ALERT*** Dad finally meets Daughter. I mean, the rest of the story was so and overly developed, but this part just ended. Stopped right there.
So, I'd pass on this one. I thought the trailer was good, the the promises were not kept, at least for me.
A Mile in His Shoes
(2011 TV Movie)
Down to Earth Heartfelt Story
26 July 2017
Warning: Spoilers
A Mile In His Shoes is not one of your Hollywood top star acting movies. It isn't about blowing up things, or entertaining the viewer at all times so they're always on the edge of their seat.
Instead, it's rather low key, character driven and character centered. Special effects? No, but neither are they warranted in this story. I found this to be more realistic in many ways, while it explored faith in God (and loss of that faith), the loss of a child, disabilities, challenges, and how they intertwine in life.
The movie includes a decent portrayal of a young person with a disability, who chooses to move beyond his fears and take steps to be successful, sink or swim. This could inspire those with similar conditions to break out of a normal routine of self-doubt and try different things, explore ways to be successful themselves. The key here is to branch out and try something you might enjoy, without being trapped by fear.
A Mile In His Shoes also includes a man who lost his son at ten years of age, and we see a little of how he handled the aftermath. But he floods the main character with the confidence he needs, and is right there to help him be successful, a mentor of import. The story also includes a father who saw his son similar to the way he saw himself, and learned to change his perceptions at the end.
I believe this is a family friendly, quality movie that can be enjoyed by many.
Instead, it's rather low key, character driven and character centered. Special effects? No, but neither are they warranted in this story. I found this to be more realistic in many ways, while it explored faith in God (and loss of that faith), the loss of a child, disabilities, challenges, and how they intertwine in life.
The movie includes a decent portrayal of a young person with a disability, who chooses to move beyond his fears and take steps to be successful, sink or swim. This could inspire those with similar conditions to break out of a normal routine of self-doubt and try different things, explore ways to be successful themselves. The key here is to branch out and try something you might enjoy, without being trapped by fear.
A Mile In His Shoes also includes a man who lost his son at ten years of age, and we see a little of how he handled the aftermath. But he floods the main character with the confidence he needs, and is right there to help him be successful, a mentor of import. The story also includes a father who saw his son similar to the way he saw himself, and learned to change his perceptions at the end.
I believe this is a family friendly, quality movie that can be enjoyed by many.
The Space Between Us
(I) (2017)
Fun sci fi for teens
4 February 2017
Warning: Spoilers
This is definitely a feel-good movie directed mainly at teens, but one I think most anyone could enjoy. Yes, there are cheesy parts, but not overly done, in my opinion. It makes one wonder what could happen if a human was born in a different world? What if he/she came to Earth? Definitely can get the imagination ignited with ideas.
I thought the high school scenes could have been better developed, and more awkward situations would have compounded the humor. Some parts seemed to go by too quickly, giving a rushed feeling, but overall, the movie played out well, and I was wondering throughout if it would turn out okay, or not. Overall a very satisfying story.
I thought the high school scenes could have been better developed, and more awkward situations would have compounded the humor. Some parts seemed to go by too quickly, giving a rushed feeling, but overall, the movie played out well, and I was wondering throughout if it would turn out okay, or not. Overall a very satisfying story.
Fresh, new and vibrant
21 November 2016
This film was captivating from beginning to end. I felt enthralled and lifted into this new world of magic. It was most refreshing to not experience a retread of something else I had seen before. Though there were brief references to Potter's world, they were not a dominant part of the story.
I loved the creative new beasts introduced by Rowling & Co., that expanded this world as never before. New concepts, new characters, and a new plot helped make this a stunning and highly successful project.
The lead character was strong, with a believable personality and a streak of likeableness that kept me rooting for him the whole time.
This is definitely a move worth watching, over and over again.
I loved the creative new beasts introduced by Rowling & Co., that expanded this world as never before. New concepts, new characters, and a new plot helped make this a stunning and highly successful project.
The lead character was strong, with a believable personality and a streak of likeableness that kept me rooting for him the whole time.
This is definitely a move worth watching, over and over again.
Gods of Egypt
(2016)
An Epic Tale Worth Seeing
27 February 2016
Warning: Spoilers
I appreciated this movie most of all because it didn't feel like a retread (or copies) of so many others that are shown today.
So you have gods that live with the locals, one of whom is King of Egypt. His brother (the antagonist) takes over the day the current king's son is supposed to take over for his father. So things go downhill for the other gods and the Egyptian people from there.
Along with this you have 2 young lovers who are caught up in mortal peril, and one fights to save his love from the gates of eternal death, and will go through everything to save her.
Yes, there are some corny parts, but also some humorous ones. At times the acting could have been better, but I thought that overall it was an enjoyable tale. I watched the 3D version and thought it helped enhance the larger landscape elements.
So you have gods that live with the locals, one of whom is King of Egypt. His brother (the antagonist) takes over the day the current king's son is supposed to take over for his father. So things go downhill for the other gods and the Egyptian people from there.
Along with this you have 2 young lovers who are caught up in mortal peril, and one fights to save his love from the gates of eternal death, and will go through everything to save her.
Yes, there are some corny parts, but also some humorous ones. At times the acting could have been better, but I thought that overall it was an enjoyable tale. I watched the 3D version and thought it helped enhance the larger landscape elements.
Enjoyable Contemporary Fantasy Movie
11 October 2015
Warning: Spoilers
The Seeker, a fantasy set in Europe, is a story about the seventh son of a seventh son, who has to learn about the end of the world, and how everything rides on him to save it. Our hero has to fight against the darkness by collecting six "signs", and only then will he be able to stand up against the great evil threatening the world.
I found it to be a fast-paced, heart-felt, and wonderful story. I appreciated the odd sensations our hero was experiencing at times, and how believable his character was when trying to convince his family of what was really going on.
I found the ending satisfying and touching, and since it is targeting a younger audience, I believe those who watch it will enjoy it as I have.
I found it to be a fast-paced, heart-felt, and wonderful story. I appreciated the odd sensations our hero was experiencing at times, and how believable his character was when trying to convince his family of what was really going on.
I found the ending satisfying and touching, and since it is targeting a younger audience, I believe those who watch it will enjoy it as I have.
After Earth
(2013)
Ignore the critics on this one...go and see it.
28 November 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Okay, I was looking forward to this movie in the summer. However, after I read so many hating on this one, I figured that I might as well forget about it. I did not like The Last Airbender, and so I figured that this one would also disappoint.
I was wrong, and I am glad we rented it.
I was so wrong to pay attention to the critics who blasted any liking for this movie. So from now on, I will make up my own mind.
The acting was NOT wooden. Here you have a military family, acting to protect their own. Humans are in a constant state of stress to protect their own kind, so why would they be relaxed and easy-going? They wouldn't. I think father and son did an excellent job of acting throughout this movie. Both...father...AND...son, mind you.
The over-riding theme of this movie is one that takes a boy, who suffered great loss in the past, learns to conquer his fears while up against tremendous odds. There is reason to fear any and every thing that wants to kill you. But in order to survive, you have to conquer your fear. It also helps a father to recognize the good in his son, whom he partly blames for the loss their family suffered. This is realistic and portrayed well.
The plot and story were well-presented, the pacing was quick and riveting, and the climax more than satisfactory. There were even touching scenes, like when the over-sized bird saved the boy's life. The boy suffered while trying to save himself and his father, and through the adventure he grew into a man. So the transition was complete by the end of the movie.
While I watched the movie, I kept expecting the other shoe to drop. You know, some proof that supported why this was such a terrible movie. But I found nothing. Acting-check. Special effects-check. Plot-check. Tension and suspense-check. Ending-check. It made me wonder if everyone else saw the same movie that I did.
So for those who read myriad of critics and think it's not worth your time, think again. There's too much hatin' going on with this movie. I think it's well worth a watch, and I am adding it to my keeper list.
I was wrong, and I am glad we rented it.
I was so wrong to pay attention to the critics who blasted any liking for this movie. So from now on, I will make up my own mind.
The acting was NOT wooden. Here you have a military family, acting to protect their own. Humans are in a constant state of stress to protect their own kind, so why would they be relaxed and easy-going? They wouldn't. I think father and son did an excellent job of acting throughout this movie. Both...father...AND...son, mind you.
The over-riding theme of this movie is one that takes a boy, who suffered great loss in the past, learns to conquer his fears while up against tremendous odds. There is reason to fear any and every thing that wants to kill you. But in order to survive, you have to conquer your fear. It also helps a father to recognize the good in his son, whom he partly blames for the loss their family suffered. This is realistic and portrayed well.
The plot and story were well-presented, the pacing was quick and riveting, and the climax more than satisfactory. There were even touching scenes, like when the over-sized bird saved the boy's life. The boy suffered while trying to save himself and his father, and through the adventure he grew into a man. So the transition was complete by the end of the movie.
While I watched the movie, I kept expecting the other shoe to drop. You know, some proof that supported why this was such a terrible movie. But I found nothing. Acting-check. Special effects-check. Plot-check. Tension and suspense-check. Ending-check. It made me wonder if everyone else saw the same movie that I did.
So for those who read myriad of critics and think it's not worth your time, think again. There's too much hatin' going on with this movie. I think it's well worth a watch, and I am adding it to my keeper list.
Upside Down
(I) (2012)
Unsatisfying
23 August 2013
Warning: Spoilers
I was particularly intrigued as to why the movie made so little money as recorded on IMDb. The trailer looked fascinating with its awesome special effects art. After watching the film, however, I understand why it did so poorly.
What frustrates me the most is that you have suspense and a good amount of tension built up throughout the story up until the end. Then it was like everything was dropped. Ideas. Imagination. Everything.
Okay, so we have a main character that lives on the 'below' poor world and his girl-to-be lives in the 'above' rich one. And the law states (the reason is never explained adequately)they are not supposed to mingle, talk etc. But of course they do and fall in love, despite being shot, falling, losing their memories, etc. etc.
The main character is ingenious and he figures out ways to get 'up there' without being caught, until the end when he is, and he 'loses everything'.
So at that point I figured the hero would figure out a way to solve his problems, maybe fight back a little and win SOMETHING for him and his world. But no, he gives up and retreats to his poor shoddy house. But hey, there's always the minor character who figures a way for her to come down to him, and so everything is ... is...
WHAT THE?
I want to scream, "Where is the climax?" Beautiful art work only goes so far in a movie like this. Without a satisfying ending where the main character does something to overcome, it just falls flat. And this one certainly did. Oh yes, they left the door open for things yet to come (especially since she is somehow pregnant with twins), but I have no intention of seeing it to learn what happened. If the first movie doesn't deliver, then I can hardly think of how the second one will.
What frustrates me the most is that you have suspense and a good amount of tension built up throughout the story up until the end. Then it was like everything was dropped. Ideas. Imagination. Everything.
Okay, so we have a main character that lives on the 'below' poor world and his girl-to-be lives in the 'above' rich one. And the law states (the reason is never explained adequately)they are not supposed to mingle, talk etc. But of course they do and fall in love, despite being shot, falling, losing their memories, etc. etc.
The main character is ingenious and he figures out ways to get 'up there' without being caught, until the end when he is, and he 'loses everything'.
So at that point I figured the hero would figure out a way to solve his problems, maybe fight back a little and win SOMETHING for him and his world. But no, he gives up and retreats to his poor shoddy house. But hey, there's always the minor character who figures a way for her to come down to him, and so everything is ... is...
WHAT THE?
I want to scream, "Where is the climax?" Beautiful art work only goes so far in a movie like this. Without a satisfying ending where the main character does something to overcome, it just falls flat. And this one certainly did. Oh yes, they left the door open for things yet to come (especially since she is somehow pregnant with twins), but I have no intention of seeing it to learn what happened. If the first movie doesn't deliver, then I can hardly think of how the second one will.
Love Story
(1970)
Excellent Love Story
12 April 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Honestly, I wasn't expecting much from something made in 1970. But Ryan O'Neal and Ali McGraw were so compelling, I could not stop watching. Imagine, actors who really know how to act! And back then! The intensity portrayed by O'Neal as a son who was expected to always perform, as well as a love, really made it seem real. This is a talent I have not seen often.
Yes, the ending is sad (spoiler alert), but that should not dissuade anyone from watching especially since there seems to be a much-needed reconciliation at the end.
As one who normally does not watch love stories, since this had the action of hockey, it added action and really pulled me in. I am glad I had the chance to watch the movie.
Yes, the ending is sad (spoiler alert), but that should not dissuade anyone from watching especially since there seems to be a much-needed reconciliation at the end.
As one who normally does not watch love stories, since this had the action of hockey, it added action and really pulled me in. I am glad I had the chance to watch the movie.
Outstanding Story
27 March 2013
This movie was another example of excellent story telling. It reveals the struggles of two opposing groups, each vying for the power of a "Savior", the main boy character. But he comes to understand that war is not one-sided, but often disguised by deception and fears. It was especially satisfying watching the child change from a fearful, fragile person, to a strong and powerful young man, though not necessarily in a way one would totally expect.
The one drawback I experienced was that with so many characters put into the story, it was hard to tell them apart, and who signified what. Of course, there is a lot of back story that is not presented and, without some research would be difficult to understand. However, I cam e away from it with a renewed appreciation for this type of story telling.
The one drawback I experienced was that with so many characters put into the story, it was hard to tell them apart, and who signified what. Of course, there is a lot of back story that is not presented and, without some research would be difficult to understand. However, I cam e away from it with a renewed appreciation for this type of story telling.
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