jrbrowzer Reviews

Marooned (1969)

Dated Special Effects?

[8/10 · 30 November 2023]

Been reading reviews of "Marooned", a 1969 sci fi thriller and was amazed at the amount of comments stating "dated special effects." Really? What would you expect of a movie over 50 years old? We didn't even have personal computers back then, but as this film shows, imagination ruled! What really holds this movie together is what's lacking in so many present day films... the acting. All of the lead and supporting actors pull their weight and keep the viewer engaged in the dilemma of whether this marooned crew will make its way back to earth (I believe the comments about the film being slow relate to the use of dialogue over incessant special effects). The last 20 minutes were very suspenseful, even with the "dated" effects. Nice to see a good old fashioned movie, made before cgi made everything a blurry regurgitation of all that's been done before.

A Million Miles Away (2023)

Wasn't Expecting This!

[10/10 · 20 October 2023]

Thank you for giving us such an inspiring film. A lot of people had been telling me to watch this bio-pic about the first Latino to make it to space, but I was not prepared for the film I saw and it brought up a lot of emotions. As a Latino I could totally relate (as I'm sure many of us can), to the sacrifices parents make for their children to succeed. The farm worker/bracero scenes were all too familiar and painful. The inability of parents to understand how America works and what it would take for their children to succeed were also evident in the family scenes. I appreciated that they purposely underplayed the work Hernandez had to do to accomplish his goal. Peña and Salazar were very dynamic in their roles and showed us what was present under the veneer. The rest of the cast supported them nicely. What I could relate to most was the conflict Latinos face as they "climb the ladder." The sacrifices they make, the double standards they face and the need to be twice as good as others just to be considered. That is the thread that was woven deep into the fabric of this film and which made it richer. I've seen other Latino success films which made me cringe over the brown stereotypes. This thankfully was not one of them.

The Exorcist: Believer (2023)

Not Like The Original

[8/10 · 7 October 2023]

Okay, got that out of the way, but everyone seems hooked on reviewing this movie as if it was a reboot or something. It's not. The story has an interesting beginning and jumps forward to two girls walking into the woods and coming back with something more than they bargained for. The parents are bedeviled by their children's nasty behavior and it quickly becomes evident, they are going to need outside help. This time they call in the calvary, not only two churches but some some of Haiti religion and best of all, Ellen Burstyn, making her triumphant Chris McNeil return.

From there, things escalate quickly and all hell (sorry couldn't resist) breaks loose. The exorcism scenes move quickly. In fact I didn't check my watch once, the whole movie was paced well. I think the film could have been a bit longer to go into the characters a bit deeper, but heck it's a scary movie, not war and peace.

I did enjoy the fact that there were a few homages to the original, utilizing sound, camera angles, scene set ups and a few other things. That added nicely to the film.

The acting was decent. The youngsters seemed to have a devilish good time. Leslie Odom's character got the most attention and the actors playing the other possessed girl's parents came off as being secondary. Ellen Burstyn always shines and although a few of her lines were clunky, I believe it was with good reason. Ann Dowd plays a nurse with a religious bent making you kind of think "What the..?"

People have said they didn't like the end of the movie, well there are actually two endings. The second one made me sigh and I walked out of the theater smiling. Now often do you get that in a horror movie?

The Undoing (2020)

Kept Me Wondering

[9/10 · 19 September 2023]

The Undoing is a very competent who-dunnit which follows a family through the deceit of an affair which ends in murder. Nicole Kidman plays a psychologist who fails to pay attention to the tenets of her profession when her husband is accused of killing his lover. There are parts of this series which made me feel so unclean as none of the characters are very likable. They all have their secrets and malice's and each has deceit. There were a few clunky plot twists - notably in Kidman's character. At first she comes off very strong, then she too easily gets caught in her husband's fold. At some point I counted four possible murderers, so that kept me guessing. In fact I wasn't entirely sure who the killer was until the last episode. Kidman, Hugh Grant and Donald Sutherland are all strong leads, but special credit needs to be given to the supporting actors Noma Dumezwani, Lilly Rabe and young Noah Jupe who give real weight to their roles. Nice to see a nice, meaty adult-oriented mini-series for a change.

There's Something Wrong with the Children (2023)

Pleasantly Surprised

[9/10 · 5 August 2023]

I liked the title of this movie and decided it watch it. By the end of the film I was saying "there is definitely something wrong with these kids." For starters they were spoiled brats on vacation with momsy and dadsy and their bffs. While the folks drink and share tales of their sordid lives (oh yes, these parents are not Mike and Carol Brady), the kids are doing their own annoying thing. They all decide to take a hike which leads them to a red brick "ruin" which looked too modern to be an old ruin. They hap upon something that the kids are drawn to. Back to the drinking and fun, and later that night, the kids sneak out to return to the ruins. From there, the horror action kicks in and you are engulfed for the remainder of the film. There is some weird monster stuff which isn't really explained, but who cares, by then you're drawn into the plot. Oh, and the kids, they get real nasty, and kudos to the young actors who play them with chilling realness. Near the end I was so engulfed in the plot that I stayed up past my bed time to see the end. I wasn't disappointed.

The Horror of Dolores Roach (2023)

No More People Empanadas!

[10/10 · 13 July 2023]

That is what I want printed on a t-shirt in response to the amazing "In the Heights" update of Sweeney Todd. You will be mesmerized by Justina Machado in this girl "I don't wanna be a serial killer" dark comedy which is a modern update of the classic cannibalism tale. I found myself laughing at the most inappropriate moments and cheering on Luis and Dolores as the lovers done wrong who are at the center of the chaos. Machado is like a simmering pot ready to boil over at any point. And boil over she does (just watch her expressions when she pops). This series is like a tea kettle. It starts off simmering, then builds steam and by episode 8, it is whistling away. Can't wait for season 2!

I Hear Fear (2022 Podcast Series)

What A Nice Treat

[9/10 · 11 July 2023]

I love to be scared and "I Hear Fear" does a great job of keeping you both engaged and scared. Carey Mulligan has a very soothing voice which makes some of the episodes even more frightening as she calmly unravels the horror. The episodes feature stories I haven't heard before and you quickly get engaged in each one. I drive a lot, so when I turn on the podcast, I quickly find myself enmeshed in another world. I've listened to two episodes and already looking forward to a long drive so I can catch up on the rest. The "dancing" one is pretty scary and you might never listen to techno music again in the same way. Great job!

Evil Dead Rise (2023)

Ridiculously Dark - I mean physically

[5/10 · 1 July 2023]

Okay, I am a fan of the Evil Dead franchise since it began in the last century (yeah, I saw the first one at a drive in). That said, this latest installment is ridiculously so dark you can't tell what's going on in the film. It seems like it might be a somewhat interesting story about a new generation of kids, in this case, pretty young, discovering the book of the dead which once awakened seeks to wreck havoc, however this film has been tinged in such indecipherable shades of grey and black that you can't see what's happening in the scene. C'mon directors, you can do more to scare people then trying to make them blind while trying to watch your films....

Tár (2022)

What Price Genius?

[10/10 · 27 June 2023]

People of genius rarely play by the rules and Tar is no exception. The genius conductor lives in her own stratosphere, orchestrating everything and everyone in her life.... Until she doesn't. The film reminds of us of how high we can soar, albeit so far in the clouds that reality doesn't matter any longer, until it does. Kate Blanchett gives a mesmerizing and virtuoso performance. When she is on screen you can only follow her gaze waiting for her arm to signal the next move or movement. Some reviews have cited the slow pacing of this film. I believe, like all good pieces, you must be enveloped by the unfolding until it reaches its climax. In this film, that ending can be interpreted in many ways. A character not mentioned in reviews is the music - specifically Gustav Mahler who I've always been a big fan of. Never before has classical music sounded so crisp and sharp. Tar is a true work of art which asks us all to consider our motives for being.

Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields (2023)

Brooke Beats the Odds

[10/10 · 4 April 2023]

Pretty Baby, the documentary about one of the 20th's century's most iconic faces, proves her beauty runs deep. In the late seventies, we were bombarded with her image of flawless beauty but as she matured we got to see something deeper about her humanity which is well captured in this film. Despite some situations which would have been legally prosecuted today, Brooke seems to accept it all as part of what makes her today. Had no idea who messed up her mother relationship was. It is a miracle she came out sane. Her path to self-discovery is something all young people can understand, but she was able to take the public's glaring and critical eye and say "That's all fine, but this is me." I saw her in a stage show of The Exorcist years ago and said "She really nailed it." It was quite an intense role and she owned it. I've always liked her and now I know better why.

15 Minutes of Shame (2021)

Should Be Required Viewing For Youth

[10/10 · 28 March 2023]

Having been a journalist in a past life, I can tell you this documentary about shaming and trolling and the potential negative affects of our online behaviors upon others left me chilled. I've read the reviews on IMDB and they raise the same issues pointed to in this important documentary. That is we will take any steps further our opinions and proffer our points of view, and if we disagree with something we "cancel" it. I would applaud this being used as a tool within schools as to the real reason social media exists and how we are helping to build the wealth of mega-tech companies. Also, to teach the sometime consequences of our behaviors. This documentary made me think and question. Great viewing.

I Can Make You Love Me (1993 TV Movie)

Still Rings True

[10/10 · 11 December 2022]

Came across this film the other day and given the state of America the last few years, it is incredibly prophetic. It details the real-life stalking incident of a Silicon Valley employee. Richard Thomas is just chilling and throughout the film you sense he is a pot getting ready to boil over. Brooke Shields does a great job of playing the stalkee trying to handle things on her own. When she can't she gets little assistance. Good thing #metoo happened as I doubt an HR department today would let things get out of control the way they do in this very disturbing film. Unfortunately we live in an era of ongoing mass shootings so the scenes when the stalker shoots up his work place are particularly disturbing. I mean, we've seen these scenes play out with regularity but their impact never lessens.

Don't Worry Darling (I) (2022)

Didn't see that coming.

[8/10 · 13 November 2022]

Ignore all the behind the scenes drama and bad reviews and judge for yourself. The first 20 minutes of this sun-splashed cheery piece scream Stepford Wives, but it quickly goes far beyond that. The actors and their lives are far too perfect which we learn to not believe everything we see. I live in Palm Springs and it looks glorious in this film. The set pieces like the plot are very well thought out. Things of course begin to unravel and the characters are not who they seem. They get complicated quickly and Pugh becomes the center piece charged with figuring out what "The Victory Project" is. Soon we all understand and it's a doozy. I enjoyed the movie and acting and it left me wondering "Why were they so hard on this pretty decent film?"

Life & Beth (2022– )

This is Life

[10/10 · 11 November 2022]

Wow, didn't expect this and am totally enjoying this tale of a person finding herself. Amy Schumer shows us a totally different, otherly funny side. Nothing like having a few life-changing events to push you beyond your comfort zone. One is after dumping her narcissistic boyfriend, Beth is intent on picking up her life. In one scene, she decides to go to a party even though she's not really ready for it. Driving down home after a bad date, she takes a deep breath, smiles a "I can't believe I'm doing this" grin and pulls a u-turn. Anyone who has ever changed courses in their life will totally appreciate this moment of liberation. I love the pacing of this show. Every punch line is dropped after the beat and not on. Totally enjoyable and realistic.

Terms of Endearment (1983)

My Touchstone

[10/10 · 6 November 2022]

Without a doubt this is my go-to film when I need to feel anything. This movie is so filled with love, joy, happiness and pain. All that we feel in life. I love the mother daughter relationship. It is so realistic and what they go through in their lives as well. I love that the mother does not define herself was such, yet all her daughter seeks is that person. MacLaine and Winger make Crawford/Davis look like sparring partners, these two have met their match. I saw this in 1983 and remember sobbing as I walked to my car after it ended. Almost 30 years later I am still so appreciative of the lessons this classic shares. I learn something new with each viewing.

The Good House (2021)

Like watching a slow moving train wreck

[9/10 · 10 October 2022]

So nice to see an adult film for a change. Nothing much happens in this dry (pun intended) tale of an alcoholic realtor living a cloistered and unfulfilled life in a small town. It is like watching a slow moving train wreck, with hints of something bad looming around the bend. You learn our protagonist has a past and her adult children don't quite forgive her for not being the ideal parent. What you don't find out until well into the film is why she is flawed - and why she drinks. Sigourney Weaver nails the role, showing the delicate and nuanced frays which accompany alcoholism. Nothing over the top, just the slow destruction which often happens (you really have to watch the subtle moves she makes when she's feeling her cups, I've seen them many a time in real life). Kevin Kline serves as a good partner for the volley and it is nice to see them acting together again.

Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music & Laughter (2022 TV Special)

Those Were the Days

[10/10 · 29 September 2022]

This salute to one of the greatest tv influencers of all times brought back so many memories. Many of us were raised on his numerous shows which taught us to have open minds, see things from a different perspective and most importantly laugh while thinking! It made me wonder "Why aren't there shows like these anymore?" We remain in awe of Norman Lear and owe him a debt of gratitude for the impact his shows had on so many lives. All in The Family, Good Times, The Jefferson's, One Day at a Time, The Facts of Life, are all part of our cultural fabric and taught us so much. This tribute show made us sorely aware of what is lacking in today's entertainment world. They broke the mold with Norman.

Succession (2018–2023)

Beyond Definition!

[10/10 · 15 September 2022]

This saga about a dysfunctional and very rich family defies every description. The plot revolves around four privileged siblings clamoring for a seat near or on daddy's throne, and the behaviors they manifest to get there. The excesses are beyond excess, the deceptions are so deceitful and the desire to make this family behave like a functional family rather than a group of sycophants is true. Having worked in corporate America for decades, there is absolutely no way this drama could happen in real life, but I sat in many corporate meetings where I could see how these siblings could clamor for their daddy's empire and the games they play could happen. I can't stop watching it. Simply super viewing!

Licorice Pizza (2021)

Roll With It

[10/10 · 27 August 2022]

This movie is art, plain and simple. If you've ever seen an abstract painting you don't really wonder, "What does this mean?" But by experiencing it you understand. Same thing with this film. It's about two people who form a unique friendship during a strange time (I lived through that time and it was like that). The leads are incredibly well suited for each other as they traverse the love battlefield. There is a reason the two are always running to/from each other. Can you figure it out? This movie is hilarious, it's touching, it's about what makes us feel. Relax, don't worry about. Just enjoy and appreciate it for what it is.

Last Christmas (2019)

This Christmas

[10/10 · 20 July 2022]

I don't really think of this as a Christmas film per se, but it has the same affect in a most profound way and on several levels. In the beginning our heroine is a hot mess. She leaves a trail of disaster behind her. As the film unfolds we discover why. The characters here are all warm and the use of George Michael tunes is very moving - he was ahead of his time. Of course there is a love interest but ultimately this film is about self-love and self worth and healing and forgiveness. The world really needs more movies like this now and I'm glad I came across this one.

The Forever Purge (2021)

The Purge Continues

[9/10 · 20 June 2022]

We go to movies to be entertained and I have found the Purge movies continue to deliver. Forever Purge poses the question "What if people continued killing after the alarm buzzes?" Better yet, let's kill all perceived threats to this country. Yes, this installment deals with topics a little too close to home (anarchists, anti-immigrant sentiments, etc.), I can see why reviewers here have their feathers ruffled. It's a movie and it is entertaining and yes we have the reality of our lives today, so I think people are taking it a little too literally. I liked seeing the bad guys get theirs!

All Rise (2019–2023)

So happy Lola is back!

[10/10 · 16 June 2022]

I loved this show when it first aired and was so pleased OWN made the wise decision to continue it. Everything about this court room drama is compelling. Great plot lines, stellar acting and timely topics of discussion. It has incredibly strong leads and is timely for the times we live!

Saturday Night Fever (1977)

Disco Turns 50

[10/10 · 10 April 2022]

I was 17 when his film debuted. I remember being so excited as at the time disco was everything to me. When I saw the film, it did not disappoint. Felt like I saw so much of myself in Tong Manero. Heck, I was him. The dancing, music, booze, etc. Were things we aspired to in that era. At the time I thought it a bit slow in places. As I matured I would occasionally revisit the film, each time gaining greater insight into what the lead character was lacking. Suddenly the slow parts were understood as the lead character's quest to be more than his lot in life. Now, over 50 years since disco pounded our airwaves, I see it with amazement. There are scenes where John Travolta looks so dumbfound lost and it is heartbreaking to see such a fish out of water. At the time I couldn't appreciate the desire and wanting portrayed in this film, but as I matured I got it. We grew up and melted our polyester, but a little bit of Tony Manero's strut remains.

Rescued by Ruby (2022)

Loved It!

[9/10 · 20 March 2022]

Face it, we could all use a little good right now and this movie delivers it. I'm a sucker for dog movies and Ruby/Bear is incredibly intelligent. I could totally relate to the under dog aspect. The plot twist which is based on reality is truly miraculous! Kudos to Netflix for doing something outside of their norm.

This Changes Everything (2018)

Eye Opener

[10/10 · 9 March 2022]

As a minority I can totally relate to this very well made documentary. I am amazed but not surprised by the lack of gender diversity in the entertainment industry. Really impressed by the work of Geena Davis' organization to bring this disparity to light. Yes, women and minorities are under-represented and yes the time to change is now.