kevin_robbins Reviews

El pico 2 (1984)

El Pico II is an elite drug/street hoodlum film that's entertaining and worth your time

[8/10 · 20 May 2024]

I recently watched the Spanish gem 🇪🇸 El Pico II (1984) on Shudder. The storyline picks up with Paco and his father moving from Bilbao to Madrid. Unfortunately, Paco's past crimes in Bilbao land him in jail, where he faces a whole new set of problems-he gets hooked back on crack and is still driven to desperate acts to score drugs. If he gets out, is there any chance for a "normal" life?

This film is directed by Eloy de la Iglesia (The Priest) and stars José Luis Manzano (Navajeros), Fernando Guillén (Don Juan in Hell), José Luis Fernández 'Pirri (The Hit), and Gracita Morales (Long-Play).

I didn't think this could be as good as the first film, but the prison element takes the series in a new direction and adds a fresh feel to some of the old problems while introducing new ones. The acting and directing are outstanding, and these two films have made me a fan of Eloy de la Iglesia. While they are more about street hoodlums and drugs than horror, the intensity of the circumstances feels "horror-like," as they seem impossible to overcome. The addiction scenes are very well executed, and the performances by José Luis Manzano and José Luis Fernández are excellent. There are many good subplots, with the father-son relationship standing out, the transvestite character catching me off guard, the attempted suicide scene being particularly powerful, and any sequence involving a needle being especially rough. There's just so much to appreciate here.

In conclusion, El Pico II is an elite drug/street hoodlum film that's entertaining and worth your time. I would score this an 8/10 and strongly recommend.

Deja Vu (2006)

Deja Vu has a unique premise, but it didn't work for me

[5/10 · 20 May 2024]

I recently revisited Deja Vu (2006) on Tubi. The storyline follows a bombing in New Orleans, with the FBI trying to uncover who is behind it and their motive. A strange corpse is found at the scene that may be a clue. They use new technology that allows them to see back in time to help uncover the bombing events as they unfolded and how the victim they found was involved in the unfortunate events.

This film was directed by Tony Scott (Top Gun) and stars Denzel Washington (Man on Fire), Paula Patton (Precious), Jim Caviezel (The Passion of the Christ), Val Kilmer (Top Gun), Adam Goldberg (Saving Private Ryan), and Bruce Greenwood (I, Robot).

This is one of those films with a cool and original concept that goes a bit too far. The cast is excellent, and everyone delivers an authentic and relatable performance. The action scenes are great, and the explosion opening is excellent. The setting of New Orleans is also a worthwhile backdrop. However, when the film entered the realm of time travel, it fell apart for me.

In conclusion, Deja Vu has a unique premise, but it didn't work for me. I would rate this a 5/10 and recommend skipping it.

Tammy and the T-Rex (1994)

Tammy and the T-Rex is a fun horror comedy that's worth a watc

[6/10 · 20 May 2024]

I recently watched Tammy and the T-Rex (1994) on Shudder. The storyline follows a high school student who is murdered. Fortunately for him, a local scientist gives him a chance for revenge by putting his brain in a T-Rex. The T-Rex and his widowed girlfriend work together to kill the men responsible for the young man's death.

This film is directed by Stewart Raffill (The Ice Pirates) and stars Denise Richards (Starship Troopers), Paul Walker (The Fast and the Furious), Sean Whalen (The People Under the Stairs), and Ellen Dubin (Dune).

This is one of those movies that does a great job of not taking itself too seriously. The cast is impressive and delivers entertaining performances. The doctor and nurse are hilarious, and the brain transplant scene is solid. The kills and the gore are a lot of fun, but some of the T-Rex scenes acting human are cheesy. The conclusion was good enough.

In conclusion, Tammy and the T-Rex is a fun horror comedy that's worth a watch. I'd score it a 6-6.5/10 and recommend seeing it once.

IF (I) (2024)

IF has a couple of cool elements that make it worth a watch but is very average overall

[5/10 · 20 May 2024]

My wife, daughter, and I watched IF (2024) in theaters this evening. The storyline follows a little girl who has lost her mother and whose father is now sick. She goes to live with her grandmother and discovers imaginary friends (IFs). She agrees to help them in hopes of bringing some positivity into a very dark world as she comes to grips with the possibility of losing both parents.

This film is written by, stars, and is directed by John Krasinski (A Quiet Place 1 & 2) and also stars Ryan Reynolds (Deadpool), Cailey Fleming (The Walking Dead), Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Solo: A Star Wars Story), Louis Gossett Jr. (Enemy Mine), and Steve Carell (The Office).

This is one of those films where the entire storyline feels like something's missing. It's unfortunate because it has so much potential. The circumstances are sad but have a silver lining. The special effects are solid, and the characters are unique and entertaining. However, the storyline gets bogged down in trying to make you sad, which detracts from the cooler parts of the film. I wanted something more like Jumanji or Who Framed Roger Rabbit. This film does have a great conclusion once you get there.

In conclusion, IF has a couple of cool elements that make it worth a watch but is very average overall. I would score this a 5.5/10 and recommend seeing it once.

Tetsuo II: Body Hammer (1992)

Tetsuo II: Body Hammer doesn't have the "shock" factor of the first film, but it does pull you into its universe with a worthwhile storyline

[8/10 · 19 May 2024]

I recently rented the Japanese classic 🇯🇵 Tetsuo II: Body Hammer (1992) on Prime. The storyline follows a metal-worshipping cult who kidnap the wrong man's son. The father becomes enraged and transforms his body into a destructive mech, strong enough to kill everyone in the cult and save his son... but can he?

This film is written, directed by, and stars Shin'ya Tsukamoto (Tetsuo: The Iron Man*), alongside Nobu Kanaoka (Tetsuo: The Iron Man) and Min Tanaka (The Twilight Samurai).

This movie definitely had a bigger budget than the first film, with better sets and a fun storyline. The backdrops really capture the imagination, and the cinematography and use of lights are excellent. I really enjoyed watching the plot unfold. The special effects are impressive, featuring a great transformation scene, intense kills, and plenty of gore. There's also a notable "gun sex" scene. The soundtrack is really good, and the use of children at the end is particularly effective.

In conclusion, Tetsuo II: Body Hammer doesn't have the "shock" factor of the first film, but it does pull you into its universe with a worthwhile storyline. I would score this a 7.5-8/10 and strongly recommend it.

The Last Unicorn (1982)

This is one of those gems where the combination of the animation and soundtrack immerses you in its universe

[10/10 · 19 May 2024]

My daughter and I recently watched The Last Unicorn (1982) on Hulu. The storyline follows a unicorn who overhears that she's the last of her kind on Earth. She sets out to uncover what happened to the other unicorns and rescue them if necessary.

This film is co-directed by Jules Bass and Arthur Rankin Jr., who also worked together on Jack Frost. It features the voices of Jeff Bridges (The Big Lebowski), Mia Farrow (Rosemary's Baby), Angela Lansbury (Murder She Wrote), Alan Arkin (Argo), and Christopher Lee (The Wicker Man).

This is one of those gems where the combination of the animation and soundtrack immerses you in its universe. The story is a delightful fantasy blend, reminiscent of medieval times and The Little Mermaid. The universe and characters are fascinating and magical, with fantastic and intense villains. As the story unfolds, you can't wait to see whether it will be triumphant or tragic. The conclusion is perfect yet leaves you wanting more. This is one of those films you wish never ended.

In conclusion, The Last Unicorn is fantasy gold and an absolute must-see. I would score this a 10/10 and strongly recommend it.

Stripped to Kill (1987)

Stripped to Kill is a unique and fun serial killer film that's worth your time

[7/10 · 18 May 2024]

I recently revisited the 80s classic Stripped to Kill (1987) on Prime. The storyline follows a murder tied to a strip club. The detectives assigned to the case decide to use unconventional methods to find the killer. One detective becomes a stripper, and the other blends in as a regular in the crowd. As they observe the patrons at the strip club, they find no shortage of suspects. Meanwhile, the bodies start piling up.

This film is directed by Katt Shea (Poison Ivy) and stars Kay Lenz (House), Greg Evigan (DeepStar Six), Norman Fell (Bullitt), Diana Bellamy (Outbreak), and Brad David (Eat My Dust).

This was always a childhood favorite of mine for various reasons. It has a classic 80s vibe in terms of characters, circumstances, attire, and dialogue. The setting really pulls you into its universe. There is nonstop nudity from beginning to end, and the ladies are gorgeous. The kills are just okay, reminiscent of a giallo picture. The romantic subplot is unnecessary but predictable and fits the premise. However, the ending has a smart twist that makes the journey worthwhile.

In conclusion, Stripped to Kill is a unique and fun serial killer film that's worth your time. I would score this a 6.5-7/10 and strongly recommend it.

Knuckles (2024)

Knuckles doesn't quite live up to the Sonic movies, but it is entertaining and worth a watch

[6/10 · 18 May 2024]

My daughter and I recently finished watching Knuckles (2024) on Paramount+. The storyline follows Knuckles living with Sonic and searching for purpose. He encounters an apprentice who misses his father, who abandoned him as a child. Knuckles helps this young man become a warrior and achieve his goals. Meanwhile, there are those looking to capture Knuckles and steal his powers.

This series was co-created by Toby Ascher and John Whittington, who also wrote the Sonic movies together. It stars Idris Elba (Thor), Adam Pally (Iron Man 3), Kid Cudi (X), Cary Elwes (The Princess Bride), and Ellie Taylor (Ted Lasso).

This was a bit of an uneven series with some aspects I liked more than others. Every single scene with Knuckles is fantastic; his dialogue is well-written and even better delivered. He kept me chuckling throughout the series. However, I can't say I loved the premise or the main character, both of which were a bit annoying. Despite this, there are some worthwhile lessons learned. Kid Cudi was a solid and fun villain-great role for him to land. There are two standout episodes in this series: the rock opera episode and the final episode, both of which are 10/10 and very well done.

In conclusion, Knuckles doesn't quite live up to the Sonic movies, but it is entertaining and worth a watch. I would score this a 6.5/10 and recommend seeing it once.

The Ghouls (2003)

The Ghouls suffers from its low budget but has some worthwhile scenes

[5/10 · 18 May 2024]

I recently watched the low-budget film The Ghouls (2003) on Tubi. The storyline follows a broke man in the media who is trying to capture activity on tape that he can sell for his big break. When he discovers something is eating the homeless, he thinks he's found an avenue for success but faces significant risks trying to capture the creatures eating people...

This film is written and directed by Chad Ferrin (Night Caller) and stars Trent Haaga (Slice), Timothy Muskatell (Jurassic City), Gil Espinoza (High School High), and Tiffany Shepis (Victor Crowley).

This movie was pretty entertaining for a film made on a $68,000 budget. The storyline is reminiscent of C. H. U. D. and executes the horror elements fairly well. The opening stab scene and eating sequences are outstanding and well executed. The gore in this film is surprisingly good. Unfortunately, the acting ranges from mediocre to bad, and the main character is quite annoying. The cinematography also reflects its low-budget nature. The highlight of the film, beyond the gore, is a kid with down syndrome who steals the show in every scene he's in.

In conclusion, The Ghouls suffers from its low budget but has some worthwhile scenes. I would score it a 5/10 and recommend it only to horror enthusiasts.

Silverado (1985)

Silverado is a solid addition to the western genre with a worthwhile story, despite some over-the-top elements

[7/10 · 18 May 2024]

I recently watched Silverado (1985) on MAX. The storyline follows four misfits on their way to Silverado, each with their own distinct goals and aspirations. When they arrive, they find a lawless town run by an outlaw. When the outlaw halts their plans, the men join forces to bring him down.

This film is directed by Lawrence Kasdan (The Big Chill), and stars Kevin Kline (A Fish Called Wanda), Scott Glenn (The Silence of the Lambs), Kevin Costner (Dances with Wolves), Rosanna Arquette (Pulp Fiction), and Danny Glover (Lethal Weapon).

Silverado boasts an amazing cast that brings this unique western to life. The characters are interesting, though some subplots are stronger than others. Danny Glover is tremendous in this film, and his storyline was my favorite. This is also one of my favorite Kevin Kline roles. The sets, attire, and props are outstanding and immerse you in the story. The storyline itself is a mix of strong backstory and a fair amount of cheese.

In conclusion, Silverado is a solid addition to the western genre with a worthwhile story, despite some over-the-top elements. I would score it a 7.5/10 and recommend seeing it once.

I Saw the TV Glow (2024)

I Saw the TV Glow is a unique and creative cinematic gem that is an absolute must-see

[8/10 · 17 May 2024]

I watched I Saw the TV Glow (2024) in theaters last night. The storyline follows two high school outsiders who begin watching a mysterious TV show that's darker than it gets credit for. The friends become hooked and do their best to connect through the show until the female friend mysteriously disappears. Eight years later, she returns with stories of being in the show. Is she telling the truth, and does her friend want to follow her journey back into the show?

This film is written and directed by Jane Schoenbrun (We're All Going to the World's Fair) and stars Justice Smith (Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom), Brigette Lundy-Paine (Bill & Ted: Face the Music), Ian Foreman (Let the Right One In), and Helena Howard (The Wilds).

I Saw the TV Glow is brilliantly shot and visually stunning. It is a well-written, thought-provoking character piece with horror elements. The universe and circumstances are vividly captured with fantastic cinematography, creative use of colors, and unique scenarios that draw you into the film's universe. The film's clean, crisp aesthetic reminded me of "Stranger Things" in many ways. Justice Smith delivers a phenomenal performance, and the storyline is both creative and unique, supported by elite special effects. There's an ice cream and ice cream truck segment that is cinematic gold. Mr. Melancholy is a phenomenal character, and his "man in the moon" shots cracked me up. The father's discovery at the television was also incredible. The evolution of the characters and circumstances keeps you on edge until the final scene, leaving you feeling empty inside but impressed by the artistry of the film.

In conclusion, I Saw the TV Glow is a unique and creative cinematic gem that is an absolute must-see. I would score it an 8/10 and strongly recommend it.

Youngblood (1978)

Youngblood is a worthy and underrated addition to the blaxploitation genre that's worth viewing

[7/10 · 17 May 2024]

I recently watched Youngblood (1978) on Tubi. The storyline follows a 15-year-old boy in Los Angeles who has a successful older brother trying to pull his family out of the ghetto, but the younger brother is unsure if he wants to leave. When one of his friends dies of a drug overdose, he joins a gang and wants to help them get revenge. Can the older brother save the young man before he gets too deep and can't get out?

This film is directed by Noel Nosseck (Best Friends) and stars Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs (LA Heat), Renn Woods (Return to Green Acres), Bryan O'Dell (Street Wars), and Art Evans (Die Hard 2).

This is an underrated addition to the blaxploitation genre. The settings, attire, hairstyles, and dialogue all fit the premise perfectly. This is a well-written and well-cast film. The situations feel authentic and depict real family struggles. The storyline unfolds well, and the concluding shootout is perfect. The soundtrack is also excellent.

In conclusion, Youngblood is a worthy and underrated addition to the blaxploitation genre that's worth viewing. I'd score this a 6.5/10 and recommend seeing for fans of the genre.

The Jester (II) (2023)

The Jester is one of those movies that, with a bigger budget, enhanced writing, and a better cast, could have been worthwhile, but unfortunately falls short

[3/10 · 17 May 2024]

I recently watched The Jester (2023) on Shudder. The storyline follows two sisters who can't stand each other, home during the Halloween season due to an unfortunate family misfortune. A serial killer appears to be on the loose, killing people around them. The sisters must work together to survive, uncover the mystery behind the killer, and try to stop him.

Directed by Colin Krawchuk in his major motion picture debut, the film stars Michael Sheffield, Lelia Symington (Brut Force), Delaney White, Matt Servitto (Enchanted), and Lena Janes.

This film feels like a knockoff of Terrifier. It's a shame because the mask, mannerisms, attire, and delivery of the villain are well done, but it just feels like he's trying to be Art the Clown. The horror elements and kills are fairly average until the very end, where they kick it up a notch and close well. There's a worthwhile throat slash in here. However, the writing and acting are pretty bad and don't feel authentic.

In conclusion, The Jester is one of those movies that, with a bigger budget, enhanced writing, and a better cast, could have been worthwhile, but unfortunately falls short. I would score this a 3/10 and recommend skipping.

Cashback (2006)

Cashback is a unique coming-of-age and self-discovery film that's worth your time

[7/10 · 17 May 2024]

Recently watched Cashback (2006) on Tubi. The storyline follows an aspiring artist working in a grocery store who recently broke up with his girlfriend. He wants to get back with her, but she feels he's going nowhere. Meanwhile, at the supermarket, everyone finds ways to overcome boredom. Our artist discovers he can stop time in his mind, which may be the breakthrough he needs to unlock his potential.

Written and directed by Sean Ellis (The Cursed), the film stars Sean Biggerstaff (Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone), Emilia Fox (The Pianist), Michelle Ryan (Cockneys vs. Zombies), Shaun Evans (Dread), and Jay Bowen (Centre Place).

This movie was much better and smarter than I anticipated. There's a nice mix of coming-of-age elements, "Clerks-style" work hijinks, and self-discovery within the storyline. The characters and circumstances are clever and well-written. The "scooter boys" were hilarious and had me cracking up. The art subplot evolves nicely, featuring everything from farting old men to beautiful women. The "freezing" time elements were great, and the conclusion was entertaining. There's a lot to like here.

In conclusion, Cashback is a unique coming-of-age and self-discovery film that's worth your time. I would score this a 7/10 and strongly recommend it.

The Cannibal Man (1972)

Cannibal Man has enough unique elements to make it worth a watch for horror enthusiasts but not enough to stand out in the genre

[6/10 · 16 May 2024]

I recently watched the Spanish film 🇪🇸 Cannibal Man (1972) on Shudder. The storyline follows a man and his girlfriend who are attacked by a taxi driver, leading to the man accidentally killing the driver. As he tries to cover up his crime, he begins to go mad, making matters worse.

Directed by Eloy de la Iglesia (El pico I & II), the film stars Vicente Parra (Cotolay), Emma Cohen (Cross of the Devil), Eusebio Poncela (Matador), and Vicky Lagos (Five Dollars for Ringo).

The movie feels realistic and features a solid, authentic lead performance. The events are fascinating and unpredictable, with a certain tragic element. The protagonist's mental deterioration is compelling to watch. There are a few notable kills, including a worthwhile throat slash, but most are mediocre, with the blood resembling red paint. The soup subplot is gross and hard to fathom, and the ending felt a bit like a copout.

In conclusion, Cannibal Man has enough unique elements to make it worth a watch for horror enthusiasts but not enough to stand out in the genre. I would score this a 6/10 and recommend seeing it once.

Night Patrol (1984)

Night Patrol is a below-average addition to the comedy genre with a fun 80s vibe

[4/10 · 16 May 2024]

I recently watched Night Patrol (1984) on Tubi. The storyline follows Melvin, a cop who gets demoted to the night shift. He's also an aspiring comedian, struggling to balance both career paths and seeking advice on what he should do.

Directed by Jackie Kong (Blood Diner), the film stars Linda Blair (The Exorcist), Jack Riley (Spaceballs), Billy Barty (Willow), Pat Morita (The Karate Kid), and Sydney Lassick (One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest).

This is one of those movies that has more misses than hits but is still fun to watch. It has a classic 80s vibe and some entertaining cameos. Pat Morita is always enjoyable. The film starts with an awkward arrest scene, but the comedian scenes are hilarious. The bag-head standup and the "marry an ugly woman" jokes were particularly funny. It also features classic 80s nudity, acting, and comedic content.

In conclusion, Night Patrol is a below-average addition to the comedy genre with a fun 80s vibe. I would score this a 4/10 and recommend skipping it.

Dead Enders (2010 Video)

Dead Enders falls short as a horror film and fails to offer any redeeming qualities

[1/10 · 15 May 2024]

I recently watched Dead Enders (2010) on Tubi. The storyline revolves around a vengeful, power-hungry woman who constructs a maze filled with death traps. She captures a man named Robert and releases him into the maze, where he must navigate the deadly obstacles to survive, find his captor, and seek revenge.

Directed by Paul C. Hemmes (Maya), the film stars Seth Gandrud (Atomic Shark), JC Marquez Pulita (Evil Good), Christie Santo (Dead in 5 Heartbeats), and Kim Wagner-Hemmes (Maya).

Dead Enders is an excruciatingly brutal movie. The acting, writing, and cinematography all scream low budget, resulting in a lackluster production overall. The only redeeming quality is the female main character, who could have been utilized better throughout the film. One standout scene is a sex scene, but it's overshadowed by the poor execution of the horror elements. The final fight scene is particularly painful to watch, adding to the disappointment.

In conclusion, Dead Enders falls short as a horror film and fails to offer any redeeming qualities. It's best to skip this one entirely. I would give it a score of 1/10 and recommend avoiding it.

Bringing Down the House (2003)

Bringing Down the House is a below-average comedy with more misses than hits

[4/10 · 15 May 2024]

I recently rewatched Bringing Down the House (2003) on Tubi. The storyline follows a recently single man who ventures into online dating, only to find himself overwhelmed by his forward online love interest's impact on his life.

Directed by Adam Shankman (The Wedding Planner), the film stars Steve Martin (The Jerk), Queen Latifah (Chicago), Eugene Levy (American Pie), Betty White (Lake Placid), Missi Pyle (Galaxy Quest), and Joan Plowright (Dennis the Menace).

Bringing Down the House falls short as a comedy, with a cheesy premise and lackluster execution. Steve Martin's casting feels questionable for the role, although Eugene Levy and Queen Latifah deliver enjoyable performances. Betty White's presence adds charm, but she feels underutilized. The writing disappoints overall, with some highlights such as the first date scene and established family dynamics, but painful moments like the club scene and Steve Martin's dancing detract from the experience. The ending's resolution feels overly contrived.

In conclusion, Bringing Down the House is a below-average comedy with more misses than hits. I would give it a score of 4/10 and recommend skipping it.

The Omen (1976)

The Omen masterfully creates an intense and mysterious atmosphere that hangs over the film

[10/10 · 15 May 2024]

I recently watched the classic The Omen (1976) on Hulu. The storyline revolves around an American ambassador who, after the tragic loss of their own child, decides to adopt. Initially happy, the ambassador and his wife begin to notice strange occurrences and a series of deaths surrounding them. Could their adopted son be the Antichrist?

Directed by Richard Donner (Lethal Weapon), the film stars Gregory Peck (To Kill a Mockingbird), Lee Remick (Anatomy of a Murder), David Warner (Titanic), and Harvey Stephens (The Omen, 2006).

The Omen masterfully creates an intense and mysterious atmosphere that hangs over the film from start to finish. The entire cast delivers remarkable performances, with Gregory Peck standing out in particular. The film features legendary sequences that keep the audience on edge, including the trip to the zoo, the birthday party, the graveyard discovery, and the hospital fall. The background sound effects contribute significantly to the haunting atmosphere. The climax, featuring the stabbing sequence, is nothing short of horror gold.

In conclusion, The Omen is a horror masterpiece and a timeless classic within the genre. I would give it a perfect score of 10/10 and strongly recommend it to all horror enthusiasts.

Challengers (2024)

Challengers is a well-written and crafted film with dynamic characters and compelling circumstances

[7/10 · 15 May 2024]

My wife and I watched Challengers (2024) in theaters this evening. The storyline follows a complex love triangle over a 13-year period, centered around three individuals involved in professional tennis. The female protagonist has an intense passion for tennis, and the two men are equally obsessed with her, setting the stage for inevitable disaster.

Directed by Luca Guadagnino (Bones and All), the film stars Zendaya (Spider-Man: Homecoming), Mike Faist (West Side Story), and Josh O'Connor (The Crown).

Challengers is an intricate and well-crafted film. The acting, attire, settings, lighting, and cinematography are all top-notch, showcasing masterful filmmaking. The film has similarities to Saltburn, with its authentic yet awkward relationships. A brilliantly executed hotel scene stands out, though it was not what I expected. The cat-and-mouse dynamics between the characters are intricate and unorthodox, with numerous twists and turns. The film effectively presents characters with no clear heroes, all trapped in their obsessions and causing harm to each other in their privileged world. The ending is somewhat drawn out but ultimately satisfying, with full-circle elements that made me smile, though I wasn't a fan of the very last scene.

In conclusion, Challengers is a well-written and crafted film with dynamic characters and compelling circumstances. I would score this a 7/10 and strongly recommend it.

Premutos: The Fallen Angel (1997)

Premutos: The Fallen Angel delivers raw, ruthless, and intense gore that is a must-see for fans of the genre

[8/10 · 14 May 2024]

I recently watched the highly recommended German film Premutos: The Fallen Angel (1997) on Tubi. The storyline delves into the tale of the first fallen angel, predating Lucifer, who seeks to dominate both the world of the living and the dead. A young man begins experiencing visions of the fallen angel's son throughout history, eventually receiving a strange book and potion that could unleash hell on Earth.

Written and directed by Olaf Ittenbach (The Burning Moon), the film stars André Stryi (The Burning Moon), Christopher Stacey (Legion of the Dead), Olaf Ittenbach himself (Space Wolf), and Ingrid Fischer.

Premutos: The Fallen Angel is a horror enthusiast's dream, offering a relentless onslaught of blood, guts, and gore without relying heavily on intricate storytelling. The overarching theme of the devil's malevolence and the villain's sinister nature drive the narrative forward. The film boasts some of the most impressive kill scenes ever seen in horror cinema, featuring a diverse array of killers, weapons, and creative gore effects. Additionally, there are moments of dark humor scattered throughout, adding to the overall experience. I found myself captivated from start to finish.

In conclusion, Premutos: The Fallen Angel delivers raw, ruthless, and intense gore that is a must-see for fans of the genre. I would give it a score of 8/10 and strongly recommend it.

Paris (2003)

Paris falls short on nearly every front, clearly reflecting its low-budget independent production

[3/10 · 14 May 2024]

I recently watched Paris (2003) on Tubi. The storyline follows a police officer who finds himself in a difficult situation at a crime scene, accidentally killing his partner and stealing money before going on the run. Along the way, he encounters a woman involved in the sex trade whom he believes he's saved, but she harbors plans to dismantle the industry. As their relationship develops, complications arise.

Directed by Ramin Niami (Eye without a Face), the film stars Chad Allen (Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman), Bai Ling (The Crow), Ron Jeremy (The Boondock Saints), and James Russo (Django).

Unfortunately, Paris falls short on nearly every front, clearly reflecting its low-budget independent production. While the premise had potential, the execution falters, with lackluster settings, dialogue, and even the pivotal sex scene falls short. Bai Ling delivers a stunning performance, adding a spark of interest, but it's not enough to salvage the film. Even the purported "clever twist" at the end fails to impress.

In conclusion, Paris offers little of value to viewers. I would rate it a 3/10 and recommend skipping it altogether.

The Wasp Woman (1959)

The Wasp Woman 🐝 is a fun science fiction horror movie that was popular during its era

[6/10 · 13 May 2024]

I recently watched the Roger Corman classic The Wasp Woman (1959) on Prime. The storyline centers around a struggling cosmetic company that recently dismissed its head of research and development. The owner of the company decides to test a new serum developed by the fired researcher on herself, leading to unintended consequences.

Directed by icon Roger Corman (A Bucket of Blood), the film stars Susan Cabot (Gunsmoke), Anthony Eisley (The Naked Kiss), Michael Mark (Son of Frankenstein), and Lynn Cartwright (A League of Their Own).

The Wasp Woman shares similarities with "The Fly" in its portrayal of scientists and the intriguing circumstances they face. The premise is engaging, and the sets, including scenes on bee farms, laboratories, and hospitals, are well-crafted. The cast delivers authentic performances that lend credibility to the concept. The transformation sequences are particularly enjoyable, with impressive masks, makeup, and costumes. The film features good kill scenes, and the ending is satisfyingly executed.

In conclusion, The Wasp Woman 🐝 is a fun science fiction horror movie that was popular during its era. I would give it a 6.5/10 and recommend watching it at least once for fans of the genre.

Erin Brockovich (2000)

Erin Brockovich is an exceptional character-driven film with a compelling story

[10/10 · 13 May 2024]

I recently rewatched Erin Brockovich (2000) on Netflix. The storyline revolves around a single mother of three struggling to find a job and support her family. When she meets a biker who offers to help with her kids and a lawyer who gives her a chance as an office clerk, she seizes both opportunities to transform her personal and professional life. However, her involvement in a significant court case brings challenges and puts people's lives at stake.

Directed by Steven Soderbergh (Traffic), the film stars Julia Roberts (Pretty Woman), Albert Finney (Big Fish), Aaron Eckhart (The Dark Knight), and Conchata Ferrell (Edward Scissorhands).

Erin Brockovich is a remarkable character-driven piece that skillfully portrays different lifestyles, perceptions, and the struggle of individuals against corporations. The characters are endearing and easy to root for, with Julia Roberts delivering a captivating performance, arguably one of her best. The writing is outstanding, effectively conveying the complexities of the characters and their circumstances. The dialogue is raw and authentic, enhancing the film's realism. The plot unfolds seamlessly, evoking a range of emotions from sadness to compelling realism. It's a nice touch that the real Erin Brockovich makes a cameo appearance as well.

In conclusion, Erin Brockovich is an exceptional character-driven film with a compelling story. I would give it a perfect score of 10/10 and highly recommend it.

Melancholia (2011)

Melancholia is a masterfully crafted movie that is a must-see for cinema enthusiasts

[9/10 · 12 May 2024]

I recently rewatched Melancholia (2011) on Hulu. The storyline follows a bride struggling to find joy in her seemingly perfect life, husband and wedding. Despite her family's efforts to make her wedding perfect, she feels unsettled and compelled to confront her inner turmoil. Meanwhile, a planet is hurtling towards Earth, threatening civilization's existence.

Directed by Lars von Trier (Dogville), this film features an exceptional cast including Kirsten Dunst (Spider-Man), Kiefer Sutherland (The Lost Boys), Alexander Skarsgård (True Blood), Charlotte Gainsbourg (The Pale Blue Eye), Udo Kier (Suspiria) and John Hurt (1984).

Melancholia is a unique character study with fascinating subplots and circumstances. Kirsten Dunst delivers a remarkable performance, delving into themes of self-sabotage and its impact on oneself and others. The cinematography is magnificent, capturing the imagination, and the soundtrack complements the visuals superbly. The film also explores the complexities of wealth and entitlement in confronting problems. While the conclusion may not offer the traditional happy ending, it feels authentic and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, Melancholia is a masterfully crafted movie that is a must-see for cinema enthusiasts. I would give it a score of 8.5/10 and strongly recommend it.