What they need to get away from are humans! I just came from the big screen theater, and I still don't know who the target audience is for this movie. Lovers of Kong? Godzilla? Kids? Adults? Anime? I am old school Kong & Godzilla, Mothra and all the rest. They didn't like or care for humans or civilization. Today, they come on like they are half human & half animal. Maybe I am getting old? LOL I found some of the characters very annoying and most distracting. Loud explosions, all out fights, monsters now have weapons of mass destruction & their emotions, for an animal strained belief. It reminds me of pet owners who try to humanize their pets, dress them up, talk silly to them and feed them with loving mother care. Your loving pet BOA will eat your kid if you don't watch out. Kong can sign language better than humans too? That means he is close to being able to read. This movie had too much happening to take in unless explained and even after that, it is just too many things at once. Kids cannot follow the movie theme and as an adult, if they didn't explain it, I was lost. A good director makes us sit back and presents a movie to entertain. Here, we have to work at the story to appreciate it. Also, the script writers' have to stop using GOD or Oh My God in these movies. God is the supreme Creator and is greater than the movie world. Mentioning Him ruins the movie fantasy. Kong & Godzilla will always have a place at the dinner table at my house however let's all keep our true identities while eat. Stop with the far-fetched hard to grasp & straining of the beliefs here.
Reviews
536 Reviews
DRAC-ATTACK!
28 February 2024
The obvious failings, as pointed out by my fellow comment-makers remain, are valid and will not go away. Now, as to presenting another perspective of Dracula moving to London and how he did it, well it explains it well enough. I sometimes wonder if the screenplay people, director, actors, producer and the investors READ the script before starting? I mean everything we, as an audience sees in this finished movie could have done better remains obvious, so why not correct it before the shooting? That's what bugs me! Imagine if the team brought up everything the audience sees now and said: We need to fix this or that, the movie would have taken its place with the greats. Instead, we get this? The shame of it all. Great mystery, an established creature, a willing audience, people willing to finance, and this happens? For the good news: I like a well-done, horror, sci-fi, mystery, adventure etc. Movie. If the director is on the ball, the audience can sit back and enjoy. If not, the audience has to help out. If we have to help out a lot, the movie should not have been made. This one comes close to the line in the sand. It does manage to enthrall; keep you focused and has popcorn moments. Raise the bar, and the audience will rise with you. Guys, don't do this again! But do it right the first time and I will rave and give 10 scores!
The Terminal List
(2022– )
NOT SANTA'S LIST!
27 December 2023
Santa list's has a naughty or nice touch to it while this movie's list has a naughty list exclusively and you don't want to be on this list. Chris Platt delivers with a good supporting cast a true thriller that is believable. As he plays the head of a Navy Seal team, it is well that I remind all readers that to lead a band, of professional, hardened, killers who complete missions or die, he is not someone you want to go toe to toe with. The survival skills of the Seals, their training and their living credo is well demonstrated here in a way where one finds refreshing. Why? In today's movie world, which is filled with "super-heroes" who never get killed and have undefeatable powers, here, we see, a credible, well-trained man, who is committed to the Seal brotherhood living and acting out their main beliefs such as accomplish the mission, suck it up if hurt, never give up, leave no one behind and the true strength of having a team that works well together among many other traits & stand-outs. The only way to stop a Seal is if he is killed or recalled or ordered to stand down. Otherwise, you are dead! The series is presented so that each episode hits the ground running, something that addresses and satisfies all those with short, attention spans and a lust for thriller type, adrenaline series watching too! Well done here as you can see quality time spent in bringing this production out of the book world to the screen. I see it as one, long delightful movie. Keep em coming! I'll keep watching! Copy that?
Life on Our Planet
(2023– )
LIFE ANYWHERE REMAINS FASCINATING
29 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Good, educational presentation as food for thought and of course, at the same time, honors the theme "life" as it should. Of course, the series chose a side as to how life evolved and based on their choice, preceded to not only make their points, but entertain and educate along the way. One thing that distracted me is not knowing the difference between what the animators did versus real life events as the false narrative animations were so real and expertly done. I kept imagining that any movie made today, using dinosaurs or fantasy as well as sci-fi to entertain could now present so really good, over the top, temporary suspension of beliefs while we gorge on popcorn and quality drinks. However, I couldn't tell the difference between the real and the fake, something that a serious viewer or a lover of the science would want to know. Also, one must keep in mind that as they present made-up characteristics and behaviors of the animation that it is just that! We don't know what they did or how they did it but instead, submit what we think. Furthermore, the timeline consisting of billions of years and what took place and when is not truth but projection of assembled facts. For instance, we don't know what the exoskeleton of animal fossil found would actually look like with skin, muscle and all the rest but instead, we study close relatives and then speculate. Perhaps a caveat stating a point of view and our best guess would have added to the realism and credibility allowing this to be shown in classrooms as a teaching aide more so. Well done otherwise and more of the same is encouraged of course with improvements.
Luther: The Fallen Sun
(2023)
MR. LUTHER, YOU HAVE PLOT IMPLAUSIBILITIES
29 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
The star of this movie is one of my favorites and that along with it being rated as a must see, #1 movie on Netflix had me deposit it into my queue and eventually push play. The star performed admirably and has a bright future ahead of himself. However, and saying all that, the plot and story fail at potent times in the movie something that I wasn't expecting with this play up to go view! SPOILERS: The guy is a good coop doing what he does best until a "super" criminal issues orders to find dirt on him so his career can be destroyed. Don't they vet cops before hiring them? Also, what evidence can possibly bring down a man on the job unless it is blatant. If that is the case, they didn't need the mastermind criminal ordering an investigation and succeeding with it. Secondly, he gets sentence to jail time (questionable act) and put into a max prison as a cop with the population. Really? Why not just sentence him to death instead of death by being in prison? Escaping from jail was over the top and strained watchability as well. Before that, he has a cell phone in his cell? Do they allow this? If that is not enough, People at the department where he used to work despise him of which there is no good reason except for his recent nonsense of which they should have known was trumped up. Further, he had a good reputation as a cop and in this movie, proves it more than once. At about the middle of the movie, I had to exit. Sorry to all involved here but, the director, script writer, producer set me up to do so. What could have been a blockbuster in the truest sense settled for a lesser destiny. BTW, there are so many decent, martial artist type movies out there, Taken, AKA, Gray Man and Extraction that could have given this guy the ability to inflict some serious pain in prision something the public is accustomed to now adays. Instead, they show this cop/criminal taking a shower, alone and being attacked and beaten successfully (no fight back) with prison officials still putting him back in population? To you moviemakers out there: Don't ever do this again...please.
Son of Kong
(1933)
FYI ON ENDING SPOILER
11 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I just finished watching deleted scenes from Jacksons King Kong where Jack Black makes a statement that helps explain the cheesy ending in Son of Kong. Yes, this movie can be accused of coming across as hokey, lacked O'Brien's animation touch, was much too short, took too long to get to the adventure etc., and then, as others have pointed out, out of the blue, hurricane and flooding come and end the island and the movie leaving us all with an ache in the tummy area because let's face it, King Kong the original spoiled us all. So why the quick, in a hurry, to the Son of Kong? Besides low budget and needing to get this out for 1933 Xmas, in the Jacksons deleted scene, Jack Black states: We must get to the island as it is sinking and then we will have nothing. So, I hope that helps explain the quick ending in this movie and gives some closure relief to Kong aficionados.
John Wick: Chapter 4
(2023)
SPOILER CITY plus REVIEW
19 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I like the wick movies even if they go over the top. This one gives a little more story that evolves as we watch. However, I take issue with the actors themselves. They are too careful not to hurt each other. Then, a blind guy, who is supposed to be formidable, ends up asking after a firefight: John, are you still there? The blind guy is not that good a fighter either. Then, I take issue with Keanu who seems to have clip after clip to reload. Where do they all come from? Furthermore, I caught him saving an empty too! What's with it taking several shots to kill & even then, they still get up. I know they wear specialized clothing that helps repel bullets but even the head shots don't register. Knives don't "cut" it either pun intended. If these bad guys are wearing bullet proof face masks, we went over this in Batman, where he complains he cannot turn his head or have free movement thus they order some masks that allow this. Here, it appears these guys can fight without turning their heads or bodies making the mask work for & against them. What we lack here is there is no super bad guy (s) that can kill Wick yet really good past players fought just as good or better than Wick. Then, I noticed even Wick gets out of breath in this movie but not in the other three. Machine guns are not lethal, handguns do not kill unless clip emptied & knives near useless including the num-chuks too. I mean Bruce Lee hits you with a num-chuk and you go down and stay down. Here, they get up. I only watched half the movie as it became repetitive and could not keep my interest. Couldn't a sniper kill better? How about a grenade?
The Onion Field
(1979)
SENTENCING JUDGE SHARED
6 February 2023
I met the Judge who sentenced Powell to death recently. He filled me in on the behind the scenes. The movie is accurate. Powell was a degenerate even once masturbating in court. His escape attempts all true and when the Judge asked him how did you smuggle razor blades onto death row Powell replied: You can smuggle anything on to Death Row stating you would be surprised. The Judge was saddened to see Powell beat the death penalty and the system as he was a hard, cold blooded killer beast of a man. Powell at one time agreed to have Sodium Pentothal administered and to be asked questions under the influence of the truth drug. When asked: did you fire the shots (both men accused the other), he twice stopped short of answering. The third time, when asked again, stated under the drug, I rather not say.
Jurassic World Dominion
(2022)
SELF-INFLICTED BRAINDEATH
11 January 2023
How can anyone ruin a Dinosaur picture in today's day & age? We have CGI, actors, dinosaurs what can wrong? NO STORY or a goofy one. How embarrassing for all those well-known actors in this film. Their misstep is probably offset by their paycheck. I cringed as I saw this movie trying to be other than a dinosaur movie and it borrows from other films shamefully. The premise in this movie has us believing and taking dinosaurs for granted like if you would see an ant's nest or a cloud formation no big deal and certainly not worth a second look or a dwelling moment. Even the writers couldn't wait for their script to end which becomes apparent as we wrap things up in the movie. I suppose this film will appeal to some group or persons, but I am at a loss to know who that would be? Methinks this is the end of something wonderous, beautiful and adventurous i.e. Dinosaurs roaming the earth brought to us via a good movie. Hey, here is a good ending: They bring back dinosaurs and they completely take over the earth once again, becoming the dominant species and wiping out mankind. Bye bye Hollywood.
The Miracle of Marcelino
(1955)
TRUE FOOD & DRINK
27 December 2022
A religious fantasy that if you just stay objective makes an excellent, deep point while rewarding unto your soul. This is what the viewer can expect. All of us growing up had dreams, thoughts, fantasy, dolls, teddy bears, and the like that made us whole and served it purpose for our childhood. Watch with interest how an orphan living among monks, lives out an innocent, child-like existence that just happens to come across as more real and definitely deeply satisfying while remaining respectful. If you get anything from this film, know that in the world of a child, faith is at work in large doses and doubt, hesitation, fear or confusion is not invited thus a child lives the VERY belief they have chosen. It is allowed. It is real in the moment, and it sustains us all our lives. I am reminded that we are to become like little children and when you do, you have a father in heaven.: This movie delivers you to this simple state of being. Allow it. It will have a profound effect on your life.
Top Gun: Maverick
(2022)
MOVIE for MOVIES sake
24 December 2022
Tom Cruise knows how to construct a movie by now and this proves how good he is at it. I was expecting less and instead got more, a very pleasant experience. It covered all the bases a movie should include and what is outstanding is it is a decent script acted out reasonably well. It is not a movie I would see twice but rewarding the first time around as there are no memorable scenes. Also, it is one of those flicks where the ending ends it for good! Worth the price of admission and the time to view. Good job to all involved. To Tom Cruise: Keep up the good work. Forget Hollywood! Give me entertainment! I will continue to pay you for your efforts.
Pelosi in the House
(2022)
HELPED OTHERS & HELPED YOURSELF TOO
15 December 2022
Amazing how when it comes to certain subject matter, if political, takes on a new and different meaning. It used to be that anyone who spent decades on their job performed as expected, was paid and retired. In politics, the longer one is in, the more they learn to wield and pursue power, fame with wealth following. I am reminded that half the country does not agree with Mrs. Pelosi and her wielding of power almost in an abusive way. One is reminded of a woman's scorn but what triggers it varies. Her disdain for the President in public was unprofessional. Her payback tactics despicable and she over-extended her stay. As with all, long term professional politicians, winning and buying favors comes first followed by the reason they took office. The people thought they would come through for them. As it turns out, there is not so much virtue in quantity as is found in quality. I believe that is what is lacking here. Yes, there were accomplishments but after all, that was to be expected not glorified. Perhaps other doors will open to this woman that offer her chance to discover meaning, purpose and to explore life beyond earthly successes. I hope so for her.
EXCITING but TALKY
30 October 2022
Who doesn't like magical, mystery, fantasy type movies providing they are done well and remain inviting and full of intrigue. Here, since we all dined on LOTR Jackson style, one finds themselves wanting to get into the mix or hit the ground the running but instead, we are introduced to tangent characters who move at a snail's pace. Instead of lavish sets, why not more of the mystery that is almost never ending in the realm of the rings-land. It reminds me of Star Wars & Star Trek where they cannot find something new and different in these fantastic places being portrayed. This is a must watch for fans. However, knowing what fans know, this is molasses until we get to the RINGS! Then, we are captured, involved and all eyes and ears are open to see how rings are wielded and the results thereof. It didn't get there fast enough for me. In all fairness, back-story has a purpose and if done right becomes as good or better as the main story. You be the judge as viewer, lover of fine tales & LOTR lore.
Vivarium
(2019)
AQUARIUM vs VIVARIUM? (ponder)
21 January 2022
Warning: Spoilers
I am going to take a stab at reviewing this movie using SPOILERS. First-off, the viewer is hooked and captured at some point and goes along willingly wanting answers to the obvious questions presented. It becomes a chore after a while when those answers don't come readily & willingly. It causes the viewer to have to solve the puzzle of what is presented. I wouldn't mind much if I succeeded and I tried to see if anyone else did (reviews) but alas, other viewers were left without closure as well. The obvious clue to this movie is found in the opening sequences of watching birds practicing surviving in a nest of newborns and how one goes to great lengths and succeeds to do so. This is real nature activity. The movie mirrors that. An alien or parasitic life-form is in need of someone to raise their young for their reasons and purposes. To do this, they recruit unsuspecting human beings to raise their young within a manufactured setting that captures humans using a brand-new house as bait. It is interesting to note that at no time is a human forced to visit or purchase a home in this tract. In fact, one must agree to go there willingly for this to work is what we learn. The raising of the child is made easier by the intruder lifeform imitating a human at birth and during their growing years unto adult hood. Two things that remain interesting are: 1. How the TV is only viewable (makes sense) by the lifeform and 2. The book it (?) brings home showing the relationship and purpose along with details useful to the alien (?) with the human babysitters if you will. I believe the TV/book gives the "alien" it's true identity and purpose and what really impacts the viewer is that this alien has no great purpose or function but to survive and reproduce itself using what works. I got the feeling that the humans could influence a change in this behavior if they fully committed to the alien's growth but instead, are put-off (shocked) by the whole premise. Perhaps that's where the answers are i.e., how these two species can work together if the humans fully grasp the aliens and take charge of their growth and meaning. But that would not guarantee a happy life for the humans and perhaps at some point lead to their destruction too. Until there is a break-through in this ongoing-repeating process of enticing humans to raise alien young by either side, one just witnesses an existence instead of truly living of life by both humans & whatever this thing is. That's as far as I got. I like movies that come on this way but, if there is no reward (closure) to the viewer in the end, then we may have gone overboard and too far-out of the entertainment realms. Something was successful here however. The proof? This review! Worth a watch.
Alvarez Kelly
(1966)
HOLDEN & WIDMARK what happened?
9 January 2022
There is promise in this movie however it wasn't kept to the viewer. I will salute the Director for working well with cattle, dust and locations issues but I am wondering what the main actors were thinking at times. Is this a Western, comedy or drama? It dabbles a little too much in all three and it doesn't for those reasons become its full potential. There is a scene in the movie where a man makes $50k the equivalent of 1.5 million today and that concept is totally mistreated, disrespected and wasted here not only by the players involved but by the South coming into possession of it. It, for instance is not wasted in Gone with the Wind where Rhett Butler makes a fortune in similar ways. Rhett become mega-wealthy, and the storyline built around it. Not so here. Also, the movie promotes whiskey, women and wealth as the pay-off for all the hard work and sacrifices. Really? Kinda shallow methinks. How about some dialog about buying a ranch, raising crop or cows or starting a business? Why not rebuild some of the fallen South too such as schools, roads, factories? This would have given the movie and the characters depth, meaning & purpose. Worth watching but not a comeback experience. I expected more from this.
The Little Foxes
(1941)
WHAT PRICE RICHES?
9 January 2022
It is interesting to note that nefarious, ruthless people who have risen to the top (some billionaires, drug dealers & politicians etc.) spend a great deal of time and effort hiding their dark sides which were used to help catapult them into the dark rat race successfully. This movie exposes and deliver insights into this wide-snaring-road and devious journey into the paths of vanity, selfishness, pride and earthly desires. There is a price to paid for doing something incorrectly. Another poignant movie point made is how birds of feather stick together. If everyone is your world is full of error and evil-ploy tactics, one sees no harm in their practicing of the same. Its only when someone wakes up or comes in from the outside do they not only see these people for what they are but also how they go about doing it too. This movie captures this dynamic nicely. Another stand-out in this film is it shines a light on the famous saying: "its not what you have but how you came to have it". Furthermore, it is written: "what if you gain the whole world but lose your soul? Well kudos to all involved in presenting this truth where when finishing this film, can say: The scripture was fulfilled. Satisfying life lessons to be found, great acting, good points made with a story well told await the viewer. Enjoy.
An Inspector Calls
(2015 TV Movie)
CHANCE TO REPENT?
9 January 2022
I watched with a grip as this unfolded and captured me. The dialog is key and having sub-titles on gave me maximum satisfaction. As the story gels, one thing came very clear to this viewer. How we all are connected in some way and how all of us want the same things. If that is not enough, I also became aware of the people in the room with the inspector and after being exposed to truth, if their character or behavior would change sort of like a repentance. I clearly saw two people (?) "sorry" which in the spiritual world is a major leap on the road to your personal Shangri-la. By contrast, those that did not accept the "gift" of change, in my opinion were not only exposed for what they are/were but became worse for the experience. Questions to ponder abound, mystery presented in great gulps and worthy discussion to follow after the movie so make sure you watch with a friend or two. As to strangers we meet as we journey, I am reminded of what is written in Hebrews 13:2? To this viewer becomes alive & satisfying. Thus, the scripture is fulfilled. I won't "spoil" it by revealing it. Your choice to pursue or not. Enjoy my friends. I did.
No Time to Die
(2021)
DANIEL CRAIG 007 WELL DONE BOND
1 January 2022
I enjoyed Carigs turn at the 007 franchise. From Casino Royale (superb) to its time to die (?) was satisfying as only 007 can supply. The story lines could have been made closer in line with Ian Flemings books but overall, a good show as the Brits would say. One thing though. If they intend to replace bond with a woman agent, I hope this gets thoroughly discussed and examined. I respect everyone and anyone's contribution to the cinema, however, let's not entertain too much fantasy or we lose the foundation of the original premise i.e. The world of Bond is an obvious man's role. Let's be frank shall we? A woman's body even if developed and honed for fighting skills doesn't operate identically to a man's. Bone structure doesn't allow for competitive sports and would be unfair to match women against men for various physical outcomes. I only point this out because Bond (007) has to perform demanding physical contacts (hand to hand,) and to have a female Bond rank-high in this world is a stretch. It would also be demeaning to a female Bond's opponents too! Please do not take a defensive position on my commenting as I respect women. I only ask that the original author (Fleming) version be sustained and that this franchise doesn't try to awake (woke) itself or become political, social or hip in today's ever-changing world. Bond, James Bond is what we were raised with.
West Side Story
(2021)
ENGAGING STORY FOR ALL
28 December 2021
The 1961 Version was one of the finest movies ever assembled and holds to this day as a must-see experience for a multitude of reasons. Now, thanks to Spielberg, this version can join it making a pair of engaging and entertaining movies to take their place in movie history. Top notch acting, singing and Directing delivers as the viewer is totally engulfed from start to finish. The words are clear and precise when spoken/sung and the dance moves near perfect! The Spanish speak by the Sharks/Puerto Ricans makes the film more natural and easier to accept as it supports the whole premise of the film i.e., two people coming together in love from different backgrounds. The songs are a delight and there are parts in this movie where butterflies visit the stomach and tears flow freely. All the actors are off to promising careers to be sure and will proud of this work in their resumes. Consider that they had to find people who can dance and sing and then act no easy feat that is why the Director gets a special kudo. He made it happen and one senses nothing but a roaring good time on the sets as they practiced of course with a lot of hard work. The supporting actors while impressive are not known intimately but as a part of the whole are still memorable. It all works well. Recommend theater showing for big screen memories and quality sounds. Bring your favorite drink, a tasty snack and a sandwich as it is a long worthy movie. Well done all! Enjoy your success!
The Matrix Resurrections
(I) (2021)
VIEWER IS BETRAYED
24 December 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I had great expectation for this movie and was especially glad I could watch from home on HBOMAX. I also was excited about its 2.5 run time expecting a lot of time in the world of the "Matrix" too. Then, the movie started and me and my guests were at full focus watching, listening minute after minute expecting greatness and then the bomb as in DUD was revealed & dropped right on the viewer! The first half hour was useless and meaningless and a waste of time. Then, the actors were corny, the fight scenes weak and redundant and the Director (was there one?) needs to take dot-connecting 101 if planning to make a career in movies. Yes, the movie will make money but also at the same time join all the other dud sequels like Rocky, Terminator & sorry to say Star Wars too! Shame on everyone involved in this fiasco. Why is it that when successful people make a lot of money that they lose their creativity, drive, uniqueness and sense of wonder about their journey and its accomplishments? As for NEO, a weak, goofy and disappointing individual with no depth and you find it hard to link up to where the trio of movies left off? Trinity as well and all the other characters have little, or no background let alone point or purpose. Star Trek took us where no man has been before, Star Wars gave us Yoda and Obi wan, Jurassic Park dinosaurs, Rambo with his awesome fight-back skills, Terminator with its relentless machine mission, Alien mysterious lifeform, and all of them including this Matrix have poisoned our parting memories of some superior earlier work & concept. Hollywood, once again is in it for the money (viewer money) and while they should run it like a business, they should also not insult the viewing audience either. Shame and shame again on all involved.
The Tomorrow War
(2021)
TOMORROW IS MUST SEE NOW!
4 December 2021
Starts out with a "what's going on potential questionable" beginning as in when does the movie hook set-in and even a bit of slight hokiness until BOOM you are in a terrific action movie riveted to your seat! I found my hands slowly moving toward my mouth and my fingers wanting a manicure with my mouth also known as nail-biting LOL. This has a nice ending and it doesn't end when you think it should nor does it disappoint when it does. The shootemup scenes with guns blasting helps hits the spot and there is also a nice touch as follows: It has everyday people caught up in action roles allowing the viewer to imagine what would they do it it was them. It works very well. What is so hard about making these type of movies? Keep up the good work & thank you.
Spectral
(2016)
SPEC TACULAR
24 September 2021
Sci-fi stories (good ones) are getting harder and harder to come up with making a good story stand-out. This movie is a good story and it is delivered up with action, suspense, thrills and sets a good viewer hook. Mystery drives the plot and then horror as the famous "there no defense against this theme" kicks in. Who better than to make the point than a group of highly trained, no-nonsense elite warrior groups who can kill anything that moves but this poses a problem to them which in turn causes a type of terror to the viewer. Its well done. It then submits another famous theme: "If you cannot kill or stop this, then RUN"! Which frightens very well. Terminator did this successfully as did agents in the Matrix. Good ghost stories have used this effectively too until we find the edge or way to defeat what appears to be unbeatable. This brings you to the edge of your seat. The ending satisfies and as in all good movies leaves one wondering what happens next. The viewers have to supply that ending in their minds and discussions. This could have been a great 2.5 hour movie with such a good premise. We will take what we can get. Hollywood needs more talent.
Carnival of Sinners
(1943)
CAN I GET A HAND HERE?
23 September 2021
Most excellent story of dealing with the dark forces and all it entails told from the French point of view and in their language. The devil cannot win but he has the ability to manipulate and falsify reality to a point. Those that play along are his prey while the innocent are under the protection of God almighty whose permission must be given now a days for the devil to do anything. It is also interesting to note how cheap a mans soul can be bought for. It is traded for tangible, temporary earthly gains that after one acquires them are meaningless after a while as depicted in every story using this theme. They also take on the same requests: Money, power, fame, women, excesses and the like. However you can have or not all that for free especially in America! Why trade your soul for the shortcut? I am always reminded of drug dealers who made fortunes living in obscurity in foreign places in mansions with all the toys. They will do anything to have what respectable people have but never achieving respectability by the way they do it. The devils deal? 80 years or so of pleasures here & now in return for giving up eternity with God? Who in their right mind would make that deal? The movie starts out slowly but it is necessary to set the hook. Then, you are transfixed as the story unfolds. The ending does not let you down either. Bon Appetit.
Arrival
(II) (2016)
I ARRIVED i.e. I GOT IT satisfying spoilers
19 September 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Being a sci-fi fan, I watched this when it came out and gave it a 6 rating because it was a sci-fi entry. Very hard to come up with unique, mind-blowing or bending stories in sci-fi-land. I just watched it again and my bingo light went off. I will get right to the point. These visiting creatures came from 3000 years of the future to our present. They needed to impart something to us not only for our benefit but at their future date would be of immense help to them. We do not know what this is. They had to do it in our now for their later. They sent several ships in well-civilized areas hoping the best of mankind would gather and learn from them the necessary gift as follows: To be able in the present to experience your past, present and future lifetime in the now and travel freely between the realms as such. This produces a maximum in the moment experience beyond explanation. It can only be lived by the person who has the gift and uses it. These creatures speak with what I call circles with different emphasizing accents that also include a past, present and future message when shared. It is difficult to learn but with help, repetition, practice and patience, the lead actress who is a language expert "gets-it" and as she uses it gets it even more. Now, these creatures can leave knowing they set up their present and future well-being in our past because the lead actress not only writes a book but lectures and teaches class on the coveted subject (the gift) so all can come to use it. You get it when you get it. The gift is so powerful in its rewarding that the question arises: If you saw your entire life start to finish, would you make changes? The viewer is left to ask that and ponder the complexities and dynamics of their changes if they did. Or just enjoy the journeys presented. Its all good! Now apply what I have shared (I have the gift) LOL and re-watch the movie and be at peace and wonder. Amazing concept!!!
Dracula Untold
(2014)
NOW IT CAN BE SAID...
4 September 2021
Excellent origin of the age-old tale of Dracula that answers all the questions about his power, start-up and how he must live up to his bargain dare I say it forever? The pre-Dracula guy has to make one hell (pun) of a decision that begs us to ask "what would you have done"? This is found in the finer movies of interest i.e. To wonder about decisions, outcomes and consequences from choices. Nice special believable effects and the actors committed to their roles. I would have liked this to have been a 2.5 hour movie and wonder why they didn't launch a trio of movies based on this entry afterwards? Also on display with realism is Dracula's weaknesses which make sense and again answer all our questions for this subject. In fact, this movie poses new questions. Its hard to figure out Hollywood sometimes especially when they get their way. Take Star Wars for example. In Lucas's hands, its a hit must see wow experience and one can see why and how Disney paid four billion for the rights. In Disney's hands, it faltered, paused, lost luster, intimacy and expectation for what comes next. They used the Jedi mind-trick on us methinks! I am reminded of Peter Jacksons Lord of the Rings and how when left alone he spit-out three prime must-see movies that brought in billions and live forever. He insisted on NO studio interference. If only the people involved here were given their chance to continue? I usually recommend a snack and tasty drink when watching favorite flicks. However, in this movie some of the characters snack and drink on their preference if you get my meaning which may affect yours. Enjoy.
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