njamesgentry Reviews

The Exorcist: Believer (2023)

I Loved It

[8/10 · 18 October 2023]

What a great movie! The Exorcist is one of my favorite novels and films, so naturally I was very excited to see this new installment. Why so many bad reviews? The cast was phenomenal; the two actors who play Angela and Katherine were fantastic! Ellen Burstyn's return as Chris was delightful. She's 90 years old and looks absolutely beautiful. The movie isn't scary, but definitely disturbing and unsettling at times. Go see it! And the end scene with Linda Blair brought tears of joy to my eyes. Total A+ movie! I loved how different cultures, religions and backgrounds were brought together in order to help the two possessed girls. It was great to include so much diversity during the exorcism scenes. Very original, fun, disturbing, and entertaining!

Monster High 2 (2023 TV Movie)

So Much Fun!

[10/10 · 6 October 2023]

Better than the last movie. Monster High 2 is funnier, scarier, and more entertaining! The cast of amazing monsters return to battle evil forces that threaten their very existence, as well as Monster High. Frankie, Clawdeen, and Draculaura join forces to defeat a powerful enemy. With new songs, dance sequences, heart, and love, Monster High 2 doesn't disappoint. If you're a fan of Monster High, you'll love this movie. It makes you smile as you cheer on this incredible cast of characters; you'll feel like you're visiting old friends, as the coolest ghouls face a new enemy. Frankie Stein is the highlight of this film, with witty dialogue and an electrifying love for their friends. It's beautiful and diverse, showcasing how important friendships are, no matter what. Total A+

Barbie (I) (2023)

It's Cute, But Definitely Overhyped

[8/10 · 17 September 2023]

Margot Robbie was born to play Barbie. Of course she's incredibly beautiful, talented, funny, and hip; however, I didn't have some life-altering epiphany, like so many others did. I actually thought the film was way too cheesy, 45 minutes too long, and also confusing at times. I love the originality and strong feminist viewpoint, the idea of Ken learning about misogyny and sexism, essentially bringing these twisted ideas to Barbieland, leading all Barbies to succumb to a more subservient role, while ultimately forcing them to rediscover their own power, talents, intelligence, and individuality. But after an hour or so, I kept thinking, "Why can't Barbie just sing a song?!" I wanted a fluffier, comedic Barbie, while what I got was a doll having an existential crisis. It was depressing at times. The cast was phenomenal, of course. I just didn't expect it to be such a mess in terms of storytelling.

The Little Mermaid (I) (2023)

Beyond Gorgeous

[8/10 · 31 May 2023]

This is Halle Bailey's film. She's absolutely beautiful, charismatic, and has the voice of an angel. It's not just a shot-for-shot remake; the film makes this classic story fun and fresh with new songs and character development. Ariel is much more of a fighter this time around; new songs are added to enhance what certain characters are feeling; and the underwater sequences are immersive. Who knew Melissa McCarthy could sing? She was so impressive as Ursula. My only complaint is Awkwafina as Skuttle. She was the weakest voice actor, even though she's such a strong actress. The actress who played Vanessa was beautiful and deserved more than 10 minutes of screen time. All in all it's a beautiful film with powerful performances, especially from Halle and Melissa. It's a total A+ Go see it in 3D if you can!

Evil Dead Rise (2023)

Very, Very Fun!

[10/10 · 21 April 2023]

As a lifelong fan of the Evil Dead franchise, I absolutely loved this new addition. Gory beyond belief, imaginatively scary, and characters you care about long before the horror begins. My only complaint is the cheese grater scene. It was so built up in the trailer, yet what you see isn't as bloody or shocking as you're led to believe. Despite that one little issue, the gore is top notch; this is by far the goriest one, with less humor and more brutality. Characters are truly put through the wringer, both Deadites and humans. Evil Dead Rise is sure to make you happy! It's fast-paced and a rollercoaster ride of a movie. Plus the entire cast is phenomenal. See this on the big screen now!

Scream VI (2023)

The Scariest, Goriest, Coolest Sequel

[10/10 · 10 March 2023]

Wow! I just got home from watching the movie in 3D. This is truly a masterpiece! Scream VI is gorier than it's ever been, terrifying from start to finish, and makes last year's Scream (2022) look like a G-rated movie. My heart is still pounding. I loved the entire cast, especially one of my favorite Scream Queens: Samara Weaving! The opening scene goes WAY above and beyond; it isn't as scary as the 1996 original, but definitely second best. There were times when I had to remind myself to breathe, specifically during a set piece involving a ladder 100 feet above the ground. Scream VI is already destined to be a classic. See it in 3D if you can!

Hostel (2005)

The Only Movie to Make Me Throw Up

[8/10 · 5 March 2023]

Written and directed by Eli Roth, this horror film manages to showcase some absolutely brutal scenes! I watched this on opening night with some friends, unaware of what was coming. While I love horror movies, the torture sub genre is not my favorite by any means. 'Saw' delivers plenty of intense moments; however, 'Hostel' is much more disturbing! Most of the film is about sex, drugs, heterosexual men looking to hook up, acting like total fraternity d-bags, etc. Then the actual horrors begin: passports are scanned, allowing wealthy people to "buy" tourists to torture and kill. It's scary to think about, even though some characters are unbearable! But when one character, a sweet young woman, has her face blowtorched until her eyeball is literally dangling from her socket, only for it to be snipped off, resulting in a torrent of pus, I couldn't get out of that theatre fast enough! For a horror movie to get me to the point of vomiting, I was truly impressed. Most of the torture scenes are fast-paced, while a few take their time to build suspense. It's a movie you'll never forget!

The Exorcist (1973)

My Favorite Novel and Film

[10/10 · 28 February 2023]

The Exorcist is truly one of the greatest novels ever written, and one of the greatest films. It's scary, disturbing, but also beautiful. How far will a mother go to save her child? That's the key element. Chris is so desperate to help her daughter, and after a very disturbing and graphic moment involving a crucifix, is pushed to her last hope: Father Merrin and Father Karras. The novel, by William Peter Blatty, who also wrote the screenplay, delivers a powerful story about faith, love, doubt, and the ultimate battle between good and evil. You care for these characters; they're fully-developed people who you can relate to in one way or another. You want a happy ending, even though what's delivered is bittersweet. You don't have to be religious or spiritual to find The Exorcist scary and entertaining; it is simply brilliant, thanks in large part to the amazing cast. Even after 50 years, this movie is still just as fun and iconic, and of course disturbing! Do yourself a favor and read the 1971 novel as well. There are moments in the book that make the movie seem G-rated, especially in terms of that infamous crucifix scene. You've been warned! And despite those intense moments, you have to remember why it's so powerful. Chris is at her wits end and doesn't know who else to turn to for help. Her character isn't religious in any way, yet she's driven to contact the church as her last remaining hope. Regan's behavior becomes increasingly violent; her physical appearance has transformed from a sweet, apple-cheeked face to that of a monster. This is thrilling from beginning to end! It's still a perfect horror masterpiece.

American Housewife (2016–2021)

Beyond Adorable

[10/10 · 20 February 2023]

What a fun, cute show about an everyday family. Katy Mixon ('The Quiet') stars as a mom who manages to raise her kids with wit and sarcasm, and plenty of love. The entire cast is wonderful; their chemistry is top-notch; and you can tell they're having a blast! This show does exactly what a television show should: it allows you to laugh, forget your troubles, and have fun. I'm in love with this series. My only complaint is it didn't last longer, and the recasting of Anna Kat during its last season was a poor choice. Still, this show is tremendous! It's a total A+ because of the positive messages and humor. Being a parent is tough at times, but with humor and love, you'll always get through it.

Attack of the 5 Ft. 2 Women (1994 TV Movie)

Julie Brown Always Makes Me Smile!

[10/10 · 19 February 2023]

Once again Julie Brown makes me laugh until tears run down my face! Here she tackles Tonya Harding and Lorena Bobbit, two infamous women of the tabloids. Her deadpan comedy left me smiling from ear to ear; the musical number was hysterical; and Brown's performance deserves many awards. If you're a fan of Julie's performance in Earth Girls Are Easy, or her fantastic 1987 album, Trapped in the Body of A White Girl, check out this comedic gem. I've always loved Julie Brown and always will. Plus be sure to watch her Madonna spoof in Medusa: Dare to be Truthful from 1992. There's literally nothing she can't do! Long live the Queen of comedy: Julie Brown!

80 for Brady (2023)

Cute Movie, but Boring At Times

[4/10 · 5 February 2023]

While I absolutely love the cast, I'm not a sports fan; the characters only watch and discuss football, so I zoned out a few times. Sally Field was the standout in this film! She's smart, quirky and has very funny dialogue. It's a cute movie, but would've been better as a Netflix comedy. It does have some emotional depth as well; Lily Tomlin delivers a wonderful speech about how she came to admire Tom Brady, which will make you tear up. It's not just about sports, it's about friendships and how far you'll go for the people you love. Plus watching these incredible actors together will put a smile on your face!

M3GAN (2022)

Very Funny and Creepy

[8/10 · 7 January 2023]

Believe the hype and positive reviews for this movie! It's completely bonkers, especially when the terror kicks in. M3GAN is going to go down as one of horror's coolest villains, one you'll be cheering for as she dishes out deadly punishments to anyone dumb enough to cross her. The way she handles a school bully has to be seen to be believed! This film has plenty of creepy moments, but the humor gives it a wonderful balance as well. Honestly I was pleasantly surprised by how terrifying the final act became. It leaves you smiling! Do yourself a favor and watch this movie. The PG-13 rating should never hold you back. Let's remember that Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark was absolutely terrifying, while pushing its PG-13 boundaries. M3GAN is the perfect way to spend a couple of hours at the cinema.

Matilda: The Musical (II) (2022)

Keep Tissues Ready for the Tears!

[8/10 · 26 December 2022]

I love the novel. It's a heartwarming story about a brilliant girl with extraordinary powers. Being unfamiliar with the musical adaptation, I certainly wasn't expecting to cry with the emotional and dark turns. The actors, young and old, are beyond incredible! Miss Honey is such a beautiful character with an enormous heart; she gives young Matilda - and the viewer, hope that all will come to a happy end. We all need someone like Miss Honey in our lives. It's a terrific film with lovely songs. And the message of being true to yourself, and standing up for what's right, definitely makes this perfect for families. It's an emotionally-charged blast from start to finish. A+

Monster High: The Movie (2022 TV Movie)

Monster High Rocks!

[8/10 · 7 October 2022]

I've loved Monster High since its inception in 2010. The books, the cartoons, and the dolls are incredible! This movie was fun with cool songs, great cast, and spooky situations. Frankie Stein has always been my favorite character and the fact they are non-binary is beautiful. It's all about being yourself, no matter what! Clawdeen Wolf is front and center this time around, while making new friends and embracing her true self. It's such a positive film that delivers love, acceptance, songs, dance, and the perfect amount of creepiness. The entire cast made this movie better than expected. I will watch it again and again. It's one of my favorite movies of the year!

Bring It On: Cheer or Die (2022)

Halloween Cheerleading Fun

[6/10 · 7 October 2022]

It's PG-13 fluff with a horror twist. What's not to love? Cheerleaders practice at an abandoned school on Halloween night, get bloodlessly killed, and it's up to the survivors to unmask the person responsible. It's got a ton of humor, fun dialogue, cool dance/stunt work, and certainly will appeal to everyone. Plus it's 1,000% better than the last Bring It On movie! Of course it's not going to win an Oscar. Just turn your brain off and allow yourself to have fun! It's harmless silliness; all violence is bloodless and free of scares. But I had fun watching it. I loved the cast and thought they worked really hard to deliver a great movie.

Hocus Pocus 2 (2022)

Beautiful

[8/10 · 2 October 2022]

It's been almost 30 years and the actors flawlessly step into character once again. The actor portraying young Winifred has mastered Bette's mannerisms perfectly! It's just as sweet, comforting, and endearing as the 1993 original. Excellent characters, solid humor, and terrific acting. This film is an A+. Hopefully it will arrive on DVD before Halloween because everyone should watch it, not just Disney+ subscribers. We've waited so long for this sequel, and it didn't disappoint at all. The new characters are cool; you root for them! Plus there's a scene at Walgreens that will have you laughing out loud!

Orphan: First Kill (2022)

Amazing Film!

[9/10 · 20 August 2022]

I was a little skeptical at first, but WOW! This was a great film, especially since Isabelle Fuhrman returns as Esther. It's not as disturbing or violent as the 2009 film, but a fun roller coaster ride all the same. Julia Stiles is the true showstopper this time around; she and Isabelle Fuhrman can say so much with a simple stare, a cocked eyebrow or certain expression. It's the prequel we didn't even know we wanted. But I'm so happy it came to be. It's truly fun from start to finish. And the twist is definitely surprising! While it's not as powerful or unnerving as the first film, it still has the ability to shock.