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Reviews
Mortal Kombat (2021)
A Shaky Yet Potentially Promising Start to a Franchise
This film delivers tremendous fan service with very detailed yet subtle references and includes characters both prominent and obscure in the Mortal Kombat world. The CGI compliments an absolutely stellar costume and design department that completely did the film justice in execution.
However the writing and film itself is a struggle. There are some tremendously cringeworthy acting performances from Lu Kang and the newly added Cole Young. Frankly the two most important characters in the film yet you want to do everything possible to get through their scenes. Kabal, Goro, and Kano absolutely stole the show with tremendous originality that remained true to how fans wanted these characters portrayed on the big screen. Additionally, some absolutely massive characters that are integral in the series are killed off immediately with little effort, leaving the diehards wondering how they expect to carry on the story without such figures. I would imagine it would involve resurrection coming in the form of Shang Tsung.
I hope the Mortal Kombat fans get the films they have been crying out for, but I wouldn't be surprised if this film killed the momentum from the start.
Army of Thieves (2021)
A Star Is Born
Matthias Schweighöfer stands out as a monumental talent in a decent heist sequel to a mediocre zombie movie -- both of which are still a good watch. But Matthias truly steals the show in every scene he is in, complimented beautifully by Nathalie Emmanuel who is a powerhouse herself.
This movie follows a pretty stereotypical trope of heist films, but Matthias exudes the beauty of craftsmanship that comes in the form of locksmithing vaults. Nathalie compliments his bizarre yet fun antics with a sense of levelheadedness that the audience finds themselves thinking right before she says what we all feel. Its a perfect duo that carries this film complimented with a hefty studio budget and a decent side of co-stars.
I believe this is the film that births Matthias into Hollywood and we see a lot more of him very soon.
Flaked (2016)
Fantastic Debut for Only 8 Episodes
The plot line of the show is unique and dark, yet humorous. Disguised as a typical comedy drama, this show is quite an emotional roller-coaster with a sensational soundtrack to compliment. It does have a "hipster" vibe to it, but that's just the culture of California and specifically the character of Venice. To complain about that is just silly.
Will Arnett's character is compelling, dark and constantly evolving. You think you have him figured out and it changes multiple times throughout each episode. The character of London by Ruth Kearney is equally complex. Arnett's immature, brotherly relationship with David Sullivan is palpable as is their combined relationship with Cooler, the village idiot so to speak. George Basil is great and is hard not to enjoy. Aside from minor flaws, it is great character writing across the board.
The soundtrack as I previously mentioned is brilliant. The filming of the show is gorgeous and the soundtrack syncs with the scenic views, tone of the scene and the overall emotions of the show. Looking forward to the original scores being released whenever an official soundtrack is available.
Overall I think 8 episodes certainly wasn't enough, definitely felt like the show ended right as it got going. That said, even though it took a few episodes to get the ball rolling it ended on a high note. Will Arnett has done fantastic with what was given and I look forward to seeing what he can do with more episodes and a bigger budget. A solid 8 out of 10. Great debut.