shoretalk Reviews

Monsieur Spade (2024)

Not supposed to be Bogart nor film noir but it's Dashiel

[9/10 · 22 January 2024]

You need to know I really love all things Spade.

That means I will always enjoy Bogey's hunt for his partner's killers and invest time in the Golden Era's radio series no matter who is taking on Sam.

Monsieur Spade to the obvious disappointment of some does not try to recreate any past rendition of Spade so toss aside those hopes and go watch that movie again or listen to the recordings.

Others complain that this does not have the feel of film noir. They are correct because this is not meant to take viewers into those dark myteriou days.

Now that I have taken care of explaining Monsieur Spade's critics let me tell you that the creators of this project are true to Hammett!! They have imagined Spade's progression in life and offered us a drama with the twists and turns mystery novel enthusiasts will want more of.

The solid script is brought to life through solid direction that allows France to be Spade's new home for intrigue. Clive Owen offers us a solid performance that does not try to be Bogart but instead gives us Spade.

I am hoping that viewers enjoy it as much as I have so that we get another season!

The Falcon in San Francisco (1945)

Not a Golden Gate

[6/10 · 26 February 2023]

Tom Conway is back charming every single woman in this Falcon adventure that has viewers wondering "who dunnit" or perhaps wondering "why oh why" throughout the film.

It's good to have Edward Brophy back as comedic relief as well as a reminder that one should never take Falcon films too seriously.

The initial vacation premise of the storyline quickly becomes incredulous as challenges only Tom Lawrence might have to face ... after all he is THE FALCON!

You can sense the evil in the bad characters throughout the film and it wouldn't be an adventure worthy of THE FALCON without beautiful women.

The acting can be stiff at times but there are surprises to discover.

Mrs. O'Malley and Mr. Malone (1950)

Just pure 1950's fun

[8/10 · 26 February 2023]

If you can't appreciate the quirky offbeat humor of the late 1940's-1950's then you will not be watching this but if you are looking for a fun off beat escape this will have you longing for some Ma and Pa Kettle!!

From start to finish Whitaker's role is of an obnoxious attorney whose "malpractice" produces an onscreen request for disbarment even before we meet his character.

This storyline is totally unbelievable but isn't that what makes comedies the funniest? There's a fun assortment of real "characters" whose connection with the main characters leads to mayhem and more.

There are mysteries to be solved and relationships to figure out with laughs throughout.

It was well worth the time .. pure 50's fun that I bet my parents totally enjoyed back in the day.

Where the Spies Are (1965)

Shhhh Top Secret Spy v Spy

[7/10 · 20 February 2023]

This was a fun escape back to the 1960s and the film genre. David Niven always makes a film a few stars brighter than it might have been without him.

I couldn't help but remember the old Mad magazine spy versus spy comic while watching this adventurous romp into the classic days of spies chasing one another while always seemingly capable of escaping the local authorities.

There's everything you hope to find an aspire adventure from gadgetry to secret pills to attempts to get the secrets from the spies on the other side.

If you are looking for a realistic spy drama then I don't know why you'd even consider this film. The visuals that the filmmaker provides of planes in the air are downright amateurish. The stereotypical images of spies from the 1960s well that's what you get and they can't fool you. At times the action scenes reminded me of the old Batman TV show but then again this is a comedy and not anything to take seriously.

I had to pause the movie halfway because I was falling asleep but I knew I desperately wanted to see the end because it was that much fun. Yes, There are unexpected turns, but the ending is sort of blah but you'll have to wait until the end to see it because the journey is worth it if you want to just have a fun hour and a half of entertainment in the world of 1960's spy versus spy.

The Traitors (2023– )

OMG it's addicting

[9/10 · 9 February 2023]

I was not sure what I was getting into but I love the game of clue and I love mysteries. I have read the other comments. So now I'm very curious about the British and other versions, but the implication from the reviews are that those versions are even better! I'm going to be binge watching for a long time.

Cummings is great and the setting is awesome. As with any "game show" viewers have to realize that the contestants are tempting to win a game. So critiques of personalities really are not applicable. However, I am almost halfway through and I've been very impressed with the selection of contestants. The mystery and the intrigue and the ease with which you can identify or root for the contestants makes this truly a special game show.

****SEASON 2 UPDATE .... I really HATE the "reality stars" who are Season Two's contestants!!! They know each other from their fake reality worlds and it takes away from the show. Cummings is still great and the show addictive but it would be so much better without the feathers, fake eyelashes, and resumes of the stars.

OSS 117: Cairo, Nest of Spies (2006)

LMAO so worth your time investment

[9/10 · 4 December 2022]

Consider James Bond but then morph Airplane and Johnny English plus Austin Powers add in some Maxwell Smart and you'll have OSS 117:Cairo, Nest of Spies!! A laugh producing adventure through Egypt in the 1950's. A wide array of spies and adversaries challenging one of France's leading spies .... #117, Hubert Bonisseur de la Bath.

Jean Dujardin provides audiences with a perfect performance as the self absorbed agent working undercover to literally "save the world." The supporting cast provides a perfect balance between the comedic and the serious; ok there's very little seriousness in this international farce.

My only warning to sensitive viewers is that the humor does include some stereotype humor which can offend and some may find it culturally insensitive.

I knew it was a comedy .. I laughed throughout reading the subtitles and it is so worth your time investment.

Wednesday: Wednesday's Child Is Full of Woe (2022) Season 1, Episode 1

This is NOT reflective of Charles Addams' creation!

[6/10 · 28 November 2022]

First and foremost, Jenna Ortega is brilliant in her portrayal of Wednesday taking the child many of us grew up watching on the sitcom of the Sixties into the challenge of being a teenager.

Her interactions with other characters, her body language and her voice immediately provide a credible Wednesday to those watching this series about Gomez and Morticia's little girl as a teenager.

When you grow up in a house with parents like those two, Uncle Fester, Lurch, Thing, and an array of creepy and kooky realities then just imagine what kind of teenager you'd become. Ortega's performance "nails it" with direction and a script complementary to the star!

The first episode DOES NOT WORK primarily due to the incredibly bad performance by Luis Guzman as Gomez Addams!! If you can imagine Marlon Brando giving an exaggerated performance as Don Corleone! Not only does Guzman do a complete disservice to the beloved John Aston performance of Charles Addams' cartoon namesake but he fails to give even a sliver of a mirror reflection of the cartoon! Thankfully he does not appear in most of episode one but if he becomes a featured character in the series I will stop watching it.

Zeta-Jones gives a magnetic portrayal of Morticia and all the other primary characters with the exception of Fester complete the clan.

As for the script, even though Wednesday's character is well written, the rest of this first episode as noted by many other reviewers is primarily a classic teenage girl going through challenges drama. There were some kooky elements that made me smile but the storyline just has not taken me to a place where I feel like this is a series I'll want to watch. But I will watch episode 2 just to see.

It seems like the creators of the series wanted to give a little bit of everything from the last 20 years in the world of magical teenage movies/books. There's a character that looks almost exactly like Harry Potter and I could swear I've seen the set design in other movies I've watched.

Tim Burton's presence can be sensed and perhaps he could be held responsible for the portrayal of Gomez because he likes to dance along the extremes.

I would tell anyone curious about Wednesday that they should not expect the Addams Family and if they watch the Addams family growing up or the movies that have been made and think that this will fit in. They will be absolutely wrong. And anyone watching this film will wonder how in the world. Luis Guzman ever got a starring role in any movie because he is awful. Absolutely awful!

Eyes in the Night (1942)

Hokey Fun

[7/10 · 20 November 2022]

A series of World War 2 era mysterious events plus a dog and a blind detective provides viewers with a much needed dose of "hokey fun!"

There are enough surprises to keep you curious about how the film's challenges will be resolved.

Solid acting especially by the dog whose character is well played by Freddie.

What truly is admirable in this film is how the writers, director and actors showcase the capabilities of blind individuals. There are lessons for every viewer who may have ever associated limitations with those who have physical life challenges.

The movie is based on a series of mystery novels. I know I am going to be searching for them.

Karen Pirie (2022– )

Please we need more Karen Pirie

[9/10 · 8 November 2022]

Yes, we need more Karen Pirie but this 3 binge worthy episodes do reveal a lot about this young detective who is given assignment not necessarily based on her superior officers holding her in high regard.

It is easily to get emotionally connected to the characters in this fast moving mystery that repeatedly takes us back into the past. A solid job of casting adds to this BritBox drama's solid storyline. It is easy for viewers to be challenged in guessing who the guilty party will be but that did not prevent me from having a correct "gut feeling" as to who would finally be accused of committing this cold case.

Using a blend of traditional detective practices and some uniquely personal, Karen Pirie is establishing herself as a detective we want to follow for many TV seasons to come!!

The Phantom of Crestwood (1932)

Classic Fun Mystery

[8/10 · 7 November 2022]

I am a fan of old time radio mysteries so this connection of a film with radio mysteries just made me smile. However, the pacing and the acting and the writing just pulled me in to this fun mystery that is well worth your time investment.

As several reviewers have noted. There is a sexiness to this 1934 film that might be quite surprising. It makes one wonder if the times have been different, how successful some of the actresses might have been.

The most important element and a good mystery is having many suspects so that the viewer is constantly debating who done it. That's the case of this film. Plus there are surprises that are much appreciated.

Please be careful in reading some of the reviews because some chose to reveal the outcome or even hit at it but I won't do that because I want to leave you wondering what will happen next, who the victim will be, and more importantly who is responsible.

I will be searching for other films that were part of this RKO series!

Blackout (VI) (2022)

More than two minutes

[6/10 · 15 October 2022]

One can never offer a fair review of anything in less than two minutes but one reviewer placed one star on their viewing of less than two minutes of this "Bourne Want To Be."

Well, the film kept my attention for it's entire length even throwing some curve ball surprises along the way.

However, be prepared for another film whose hero has superhero recovery power that will challenge most viewers acceptance of the film as anything other than pure fiction and escapism popcorn. But, frankly this film's script writers and director no doubt knew that was what they were offering us in another good guys bad guys or bad guys are good guys or well watch the film to figure it out.

Yes, other than an aged Nick Nolte, this film's cast is not red carpet superstars and many of the secondary cast clearly needs some acting classes. The key characters (if you watch more than 2 minutes) will pull you into the thriller as bullets fly all around.

If you are looking for a Friday night flick that takes you away from reality and has a surprise or two this isn't a bad option. Now, I won't watch it again but I know how it ends.

Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome (1947)

Fun, campy entertainment for everyone

[8/10 · 27 September 2022]

This 1947 Tracy adventure is pure fun for all ages. Ok, It's filmed in black and white (1940's duh) and it's campy but from the names of the characters to the adventures and storyline. It's pure fun unless you've become a person who's overtly serious every single second.

Boris Karloff gets his due in the film as Gruesome while all the characters from Chester Gould's long lasting comic strip make an appearance. You don't have to know anything about Dick. Tracy to enjoy this film, but if you have a little bit of knowledge you'll leave it. Enjoy it more.

This post-war film takes us into experimental science projects, challenges Tracy and the police to resolve a serious crime, and even has a member of the media attempting to get his headlines. There's romance with Tess and even a professor whose beauty matches her intellect, which is a credit to the producers and writers to have a female scientist working in the labs alongside the men in 1947.

Grab a bowl of popcorn, set aside your 21st century biases, and invest your time and a movie that should leave you smiling at times. Searching for an answer, but most importantly thoroughly entertained.

Me Time (2022)

Do NOT Waste your time

[1/10 · 25 September 2022]

I needed to laugh ... I wanted to laugh .. and of all the wrong decisions I could have made I chose 'Me Time, ' which cost me time I will never get back. DO NOT WASTE YOUR 'Me Time's in this colossally dull Netflix film that offers an energetic Kevin Hart (That is not a positive because he is energized doing innanely predictable unfunny things that I cannot believe someone paid a screenwriter for. The scene at a strip club where Hart is recognized haha nope.).

Each and every actor appears to be going through the motions. Kevin Hart's mother-in-law disappointed because she doesn't get time to read porn ... don't think that is a spoiler because the entire film is a spoiler ... a giant turtle ... skinny dipping and watching porn to ... well just DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME ... The film needs its own crossing guard to stop viewers.

I need to amend the review to a one because the more I think of how it wasted MY TIME the more I wonder if these actors were so desperate for a pay day that they'd agree to waste their time and credibility.

Bean (1997)

I really wanted to like it and laugh

[5/10 · 18 August 2022]

Perhaps I was being overly optimistic that Mr or should I say Dr Bean could deliver a fulfilling film that might make me laugh. Yes, I sort of giggled but his garish voice erased any laughter that might have been produced in those moments when he actually provided a response. The slap stick is overdone and the story line too incredibly unreal even for a Bean comedy. I am half way through it and that's about all I can take. Perhaps there is closure but I am not about to find out.

McDonald & Dodds (2020– )

Absolute Fun!!

[9/10 · 16 August 2022]

Sometimes one needs to sit back and enjoy an adventure; McDonald & Dodds is the solution to the quest.

It's almost impossible to not crack a smile frequently while watching the leads using their inquiring minds to take viewers through the possibilities of crime solutions.

Mara Maru (1952)

Afternoon Feature

[6/10 · 7 August 2022]

There are some movies that simply qualify as afternoon entertainment. Mara Maru fits the bill as an adventurous romp with a cast led by Erroll Flynn and Raymond Burr.

Although this is not Flynn's best performance I would argue with those who have written demeaning his work. There are definitely moments throughout the movie where you see the sparkle of Robin Hood coming through.

It is always challenging to determine whether to blame the directing or the acting when actors look stiff or over exaggerate. Mara Maru has examples of both.

All that being said, I found myself following the intrigue, attempting to predict what would happen next, and actually enjoying a Sunday afternoon movie in the air conditioning.

I read one review that mentioned it would have been a much better movie in color and I would agree because the sea scenes in black and white just can't carry the same quality as a color film.

So, If you are looking to hunt down a treasure like the characters in this movie please understand that this is not a diamond in the rough but perhaps it's a gemstone that will make your day.

The Gray Man (2022)

Lose your sense of believability

[5/10 · 5 August 2022]

Ok, first this film kept my attention and filled a time void but it stretches credibility to a laughable level.

Pseudo-invincible super heroes because no human (not even James Bond) could suffer the horrific damage to the body and still go for another round of intense action. Couple of evil characters that viewers will unify in despising and an ending that absolutely disappoints but sets up a second film in a manner that leaves viewers understanding that this was not a finished product.

Incredibly poor writing and the production/direction team apparently just wanted to spend money on action scenes that even my three year old grandson would realize are contrived.

Gosling and Thornton carry out their roles but there won't be any award nominations for those acting in this one.

I really wonder if Netflix will be willing to pour more money into a film franchise that is gray all over.

The Madame Blanc Mysteries (2021– )

Entertaining, uplifting, and worth watching

[8/10 · 23 November 2021]

Perhaps I'm aging myself but I don't need gratuitous violence and sex to enjoy a mystery show. In fact, when you throw in good natured comedy with characters that you enjoy seeing on screen you've got something special.

Please ignore those negative reviews if you are trying to figure out if this Acorn mystery is worth your time because if you want entertaining, uplifting, and worth watching TV this new addition to Acorn's line-up will leave you smiling.

Yes, as one critic noted, the cast is "older" but one day even the critic will slip into middle age. The Madame Blanc Mysteries does not market itself has hard hitting and gore-filled and R rated viewing ... only a fun mystery with hints of romance and a cast of characters who are really fun "CHARACTERS!"

The producers, actors, and writers have given viewers a binge-worthy show that I for one hope is extended into many future seasons.

Mr. Palfrey of Westminster (1984– )

Extremely poor quality video/sound synching

[5/10 · 19 October 2021]

The first thing you need to know is this is a well written and well acted series. If I was rating Mr Palfrey solely on its content, direction, and acting I would be joining everyone in the 8 to 9 category.

However, the broadcast on the Acorn Network is so annoying with the synch issue between audio and visual that it is a struggle to watch. Of course, we have been spoiled to expect the best when we watch our streaming networks. This series is almost 40 years old and obviously it was not archived well.

So take that warning of potential frustration and jump into the well-acted series that will have you remembering the Cold War days and questioning what all governments were up to allegedly to protect us but in the end perhaps they were all about themselves.

Odds Against Tomorrow (1959)

Powerfully Entrancing

[9/10 · 27 August 2021]

I can only imagine how Wise's film was viewed by movie goers when it was released. It addresses blatant racism with powerful imagery and at its conclusion it was clear to this 21st century viewer that the film maker had revealed the flaws in racists minds.

I found myself entranced by the carefully directed film's storyline providing us with a latter day film noir classic.

The romantic connections reveal who these men are providing us with a sympathetic view of the women who crossed their paths.

A few unexpected moments ong with good performancs by the principals makes this a film worth viewing of you get the opportunity.

Saboteur (1942)

A Classic Must See

[10/10 · 20 June 2021]

When you consider the films that you must see in your lifetime it's hard to not include Saboteur.

The energy that comes from Hitchcock's nudging you closer and closer to the edge of your seat ebbs and flows throughout this movie. Each actor contributes at the highest level of their craft.

Priscilla Lane delivers throughout as her relationship with Robert Cummings' character grows more complex.

There is even a collection of oddities whose divergent reality gets the viewer thinking of the film's underlying message. The script is very appropriate for its time but a 21st century audience will still sense the essence of what mattered.

The film's conclusion is classic Hitchcock and repeat viewers will still be magically drawn in by the master!

.

The Wild North (1952)

A solid adventure in the wild

[7/10 · 29 May 2021]

What awesome scenary provides the setting for this classic 1950's formulated drama! Solid performances by all actors.

It does seem like a scene vanished from the Turner classic version that I was watching. The jump in the film between scenes early in the movie seemed out of place. And, once you discovered a certain event had occured it seemed unlikely that this important scene was on the cutting room floor.

The Unholy Wife (1957)

The potential was there

[6/10 · 4 February 2021]

Rod Steiger is why I chose to watch and perhaps his performance was what left be wanting more. The moments of passion in his relationship with his friend were stilted.

The storyline had hooks that continued to make you wonder right up until the end so that alone raised this rating. Like every good mystery there were twists and turns and the unexpected. The closing dialogue could have gone more than one way.

Clearly this film was shot on the cheap; a classic B film. Diana Dors was shown off as one of those 1950's blonde bombshells but in her case I sense no real explosions going off.

The film made for an acceptable afternoon diversion but I'm not going to go looking for another rod steiger film anytime soon.

Death to 2020 (2020 TV Special)

BRILLIANT!!

[10/10 · 3 January 2021]

Ok, so that year we no longer want to mention has left an enormous pile of unspeakable harm that will require bold change to clean up.

But, the writers and producers have given all of us a brilliant comedic work that also will get us thinking about how we each may have contributed to this problem.

It Happened on Fifth Avenue (1947)

Heart Warming Nostalgia

[8/10 · 9 December 2020]

I am not one for Hallmark movies but as the frames flew by entrancing me with the magic of this 1940's classic it was easy to see how the story deserved its Oscar nomination.

The film is pure nostlgia and if you are focused on being one who cynically searches for realism this is not for you. The blend of instant romance and faux wealth contrasted with the hunt for success builds up the viewer's hope for happiness along with change.

The cast of actors works well in the spirit of this comedy. Only DeFore's name rings familiar.

It is well worth the time investment and then you might just add it to your list of watch it again because I will be looking for it again.