KoondoggSaints Reviews

Hancock (2008)

Not your typical "superhero" movie, but still good

[7/10 · 1 July 2008]

I was lucky enough to go to a pre-screening of Hancock last night and I really enjoyed it. I don't understand all of the criticism this movie is receiving. Everyone take a second and realize this is not a Marvel or DC comic book superhero movie. Now think about that again. It is a different story entirely and has some very unique elements.

Hancock isn't action packed. It doesn't have a Superhero vs. Supervillan plot. I would probably describe it as a character study of the superhero. I think this movie does a better job of addressing some of the issues (and vices) a superhero probably would have if they existed today. The biggest conflict in the movie is within Will Smith's character's attitude, not necessarily good vs. evil.

I think much of the criticism I have read about is motivated by expectations that were not met, which isn't fair at all. If you watch Hancock with only the expectation of being entertained, you will leave happy. Its a good movie, don't jump on the bandwagon of not liking it just because you can. Give it a chance and take it for what it is, a July 4th action/comedy.

Brokeback Mountain (2005)

Amazingly not amazing...

[8/10 · 15 February 2006]

I just saw Brokeback and I have to say that it is a very good movie. The most amazing thing surrounding the film is that it is just an above average love story, and when you watch it, this is what you think of. I was amazed at how the emphasis was put on love and a forbidden relationship, instead of the fact that the parties involved were gay. I went into the film with reservations like most men would, but I came out feeling like I had be suckered into another 'chic flick.' And for this I applaud Ang Lee. To make such a controversial topic seem like a normal movie is amazing to me. I went in expecting Fahrenheit 911 and walked out as if I had watched March of the Penguins. This is a very good movie and I encourage every person who enjoys a love story to watch it, and every other person to watch how easy it is to accept a homosexual relationship as you would any other relationship.

Civilization III (2001 Video Game)

Civ 3 rules......

[8/10 · 16 June 2002]

Civ 3 is truly a great game. I have not played the previous civilizations but the third installment of the series is terrific. You start as a nomad and work your way up throughout history. You discover and develop everything from the wheel to archers to frigates to planes to ICBM's. The game can also be short or long depending on how you go about things, the ultimate goal is world domination.

The Shining (1980)

The Only Scary Movie Out There.......

[9/10 · 16 June 2002]

The Shining really is just about the only truly scary movie that I have seen. To often scary movies lose something when they decide to throw in some humor, but the shining is hardcore scary all the way through. The actors all did a terrific job and Jack Nicholson is superb.