stonedraim Reviews

Split (IX) (2016)

M. Night Shyamalan climbing up... should he make 25 movies, to complete the circle?

[8/10 · 3 June 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

Right into it; The way M. Night Shyamalan in a very clear way makes his way through the 23 different personalities into the showcase of the movie is more than great. All viewers should have a fair chance to take onto the contemplation of the "different splits". On his edge, Mr. Shyamalan is here. Enjoy!

It seems as Mr. Shyamalan has taken several movies and stories as inspiration and made this his own. I find traces of "Room" and "Cloverfield Lane 10" On top of this, the hide and seek motion and emotion from different horror games grasps hold of the screen as the audience just can follow through the games of the 23 patients. Watch the game "Alien Isolation", "Dead Space" and "Outlast"...

As usual (speaking of let us say Signs, Unbreakable and The Village) the blend of a social oriented day to day basis along with a creeping disliking horror comes to surface as the time passes by within "Split". If you like a some what original movie with a tight script and story, then "Split" should be taken care of by you. Some of you will crumble into psychological elements now and then, just to be aware of yourself jumping high and.... scream?!

One of biggest fear of modern society may be the new and yet to explore sides and spaces of the human mind. All the psychological aspects, all the dysfunctional aspects, all the borderline discussions and the realism of philosophy; "Split" combines that with fear and throws a vast heap of question marks along the entertainment to both comply and investigate. I am very impressed how this is handled. Look about 35 minutes into the movie.

----- 41:30...hey.....it is M. Night Shyamalan himself behind the computer! "I've got red socks... I've got blue socks too... etcetera..." Is this review a little different and goes here and there...? Yes, it is. Can there be a 25th........? "We are what we believe we are." -----

This movie evolves around very interesting and deep matters. Can a human mind through extreme "measures" or "pure power" change a human being physically? Can it be that a human that has traumatic and tragic episodes processed have a more vast conscious and become/be more of an evolved person? Is schizophrenia a psycho-social matter, or is it in some way "a true distorted view" formed by the mind and brain, physically? What if adrenaline by the form of the story behind Bruce Banner becoming an extremely strong human being (The Hulk) combined with schizophrenia can create "something"/someone abnormal, as the beast in here.....? Can a person develop strong skills and behaviours from animal and form itself from there on into something else...?

M. Night Shyamalan himself were "bad mouthed" from fans and media about being a some what of schizophrenic.... and here he answers all that with a whole movie. (Clap clap!) The woman in the movie has been sexual abused. Can that be that she comprehend dominating males to be "monsters"... is that her perspective? The viewer gets to know her more and more... and, at the end.... why is the steel bar of the cell all of a sudden straight again...? Is the perspective in her mind?

In a time where the neuropsychiatric world is more and more explored and "combinations" such as ADHD, ADD and so on is under the microscope, "Split" takes that social debate and twists it. Well done! Are the society labeling too harsh and being judgemental...?

The ending is one of the most intelligent I have seen in a long, long time. Made the rate jump up a bit, actually... over 8,0. It starts about 1 hour and 50 minutes into the movie. The music, the timing... M. Night Shyamalan... Sixth sense, Unbreakable... Bruce Willis.... Mr. Glass..... it all came down to this. I shouted right out and felt my hands applaud... What an ending!

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : An simple and pure production. In its narrow path of production, the horror elements become grotesque. Mr. Shyamalans way of letting the truth and authentic story come forward is right in place in "Split". M. Night Shyamalan has almost perfected his own style. - The actors : James McAvoy nails the part. He delivers both pure evil, manipulation and grief of some kind. A textbook example of schizophrenia; see about 40 minutes into "Split". The whole session is finalized with depth of an competent actor surrounded with expertise of M. Night Shyamalan. - Entertainment : The motion picture takes you on a roller coaster. Up...down...here and there... and inside out, if you let it. - Age : 15, due to strong psychological aspects, violence and blood.

8,5 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 9 Brilliant and admirable 8 Excellent movie and a solid production)

Metal Brothers (2012)

(Cow)Boys from hell

[4/10 · 3 June 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

I got two things to say about this movie...no, three things. 1. The more you focus one something and lift into the spotlight, the more you will get of it. 2. All successful people are bad, and all "martyrs and sad people" are good. WHAT? The clear and political message in the outer edge of "Mammas pojkar" is just too absurd...and, to be honest, sad. 3. It is Swedish. I stand my ground.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Typical Swedish production. Some nice camera sweepings, that is it. Some blood also... in a Swedish comedy; a little rare. Look at 1:21:30. - The actors : Typical Swedish actors. - Entertainment : Where...? - Age : None, in mypoint of view.

4,0 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 4 Failed. Lacking in character. 3 Bad. Weak. Foul.)

Hidden Figures (2016)

Important... important movie... important message.

[8/10 · 3 June 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

A well made story about evolution in the perspective of women and their excellence and importance. Just watch this.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Academy award nominee..... - The actors : Academy award nominee..... - Entertainment : Academy award nominee..... - Age : 11

7,8 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 9 Brilliant and admirable 8 Excellent movie and a solid production)

House on Willow Street (2016)

House on Willow of Low Rate Lane

[4/10 · 26 March 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

Read the title. As I write/wrote this review, "From a house on Willow Street" had been reviewed and/or rated by about 200 users. The rate were set to 7,5 on IMDb. My experience of movies and rates told me that it will drop a bit when arriving to let's say 10.000 users. Second thought; it will drop a lot when arriving to 10.000 users. I think this motion picture will become rated as about 4,9 on IMDb. In my opinion, I'll set my rate to 4,1. This is bad.

Enough said from me.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Errors in characters. Errors in editing. Syntax error...? - The actors : Tries to get it there along with the director. - Entertainment : First 15 minutes, low entertainment. The rest; cliché of horror. - Age : 15

4,1 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 5 Approved. 4 Failed. Lacking in character.)

Hacksaw Ridge (2016)

This... is a true triumph.

[8/10 · 12 February 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

My first impression of this movie is this: this movie can be tremendous and fantastic, or it can fall down as a flat, big stone. The first tones of music builds up and gives it an almost fake impression of a inflated and pompous movie. the second thing is that the actors seems off... smiling, just all that easy going and calm. As if they were under the influence of something. At times I think for myself; what, 8,3 on IMDb with that bad acting? Thinking of the man under the car being hurt in the leg. And speaking of that, the blood and effects of the squirting blood seems bad made.

The second impression of this movie is this: Mel Gibson has as the director done an marvellous job in creating an atmosphere of easy going, calm, straight forward, pleasant and honesty. Well done! I am embracing it at the fullest! I love the way the casting team has worked on making roles for the army. Vince Vaughn as an sergeant? Well, Mel Gibson makes it trustworthy, in some way or another.

48 minutes into the motion picture: Sergeant: What the hell are you saying, Doss? You bruise half your body sleeping? Desmond Doss: I...I sleep pretty hard...

We're not in Kansas anymore, Dorothy. So...did they meet Rosanna...or did they just wait to hold the line, Toto?

One mans belief (based on what may) can fuel an entire world... and this movie is a true story.

I clapped my hands at the end. I cried a couple of times. What a triumph! In his Braveheart, the hero dies. In Hacksaw Ridge, the hero lives. He did triumph about 20 years later... will he do the same at the Academy Awards, Mr. Mel Gibson?

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Amazing scenery. Amazing sound. Amazing visuals. This is type A of professional movie making. - The actors : Andrew Garfield, amongst others. Mel Gibson took them higher than Hacksaw Ridge. - Entertainment : When the movie where finished, I realized that over two hours passed. It felt like 20 minutes. That is entertainment. - Age : 18, due to war and extreme gore due to injuries

8,3 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 9 Brilliant and admirable 8 Excellent movie and a solid production)

Lion (2016)

Namaste

[8/10 · 12 February 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

In the deep of India lives a family. Poor, trying to get food each day. Two boys striving together, just to come home to their mother each evening. One day, one of the brothers is gone missing, waiting for the other brother. A train takes the brother 1200 kilometres away to Calcutta. Lost... This is the the beginning of a wonderful and heartbreaking movie named "Lion". 25 years passes; and the now adopted man returns to seek for his biological family.

"Lion" is... I'm trying to find words.... Fantastic! Due to that it is a true story, it is marvellous! As a bearer of India in my heart (Mumbai and Goa 2002), I've seen the poverty and the hunger in the misery on the streets of India. To understand all that, You have experience it there yourself... in India. As a traveller there about 15 years ago, "Lion" found it place directly in my heart.

This movie is allowed to show India its pure nature; raw, ugly, poor, religious, sad... to grasp all that and still deliver the true story within "Lion" is astonishing!

I close this review right away, just to give you the time to experience it yourself. Academy Award winner for Best Picture 2016?

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Academy award nominations. Period. - The actors : Academy award nominations. Period. I love Dev Patel. - Entertainment : I cried more than four times during "Lion". I laughed. I felt warmth. This is true entertainment taken from reality. - Age : 11 or 15, due to psychological aspects

8,4 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 9 Brilliant and admirable 8 Excellent movie and a solid production)

Silence (I) (2016)

Cinematography. Period.

[5/10 · 12 February 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

To the point. Do you like movies about religion and its priests and gatherings? Then look into Silence. Otherwise, just ignore this. Silence comes into play as two priests search for their mentor and spread the word and faith of Catholocism. It is fascinating how the world and people has developed from the surrounding religion and faith that were all mighty life through God. There is strong similarities between the fate of the priests and the movie itself, and the known story of Jesus Christ and his suffering, becoming a martyr.

Martin Scorceses presence is touchable in here. The silent tempo with the dialogue... it is Mr. Scorcese, that is right. The length of the movie has also MArtin Scorcese written all over it, and that is on the bad side. If Silence were just about one hour in length in all, it could have been well worth the watch. Now... it is just passing by. Add to that what is written below under the production section.

On the upside, there is a natural and comfortable pace and display of the story in "Silence". That is shown and delivered in a good way. Almost free and a prayer parallel during the entire movie.

On the outside and the poster of "Silence", you see Liam Neeson. Liam Neeson is just a little figure being in play some minutes in the film. To put him on the poster is a trick taken from the 80's: put the most known actor first, how little he or she may be in the movie. Naive and false trick to market a movie. Used here, in 2016. I say; what??

This is the first film is a looong time that I have fast played forward during the film after 40 minutes. That is remarkable.

Andrew Garfield. It is highly interesting that one actor can be involved in one confusing and poorly executed movie, and at the same time and year be involved in a great one and also Academy Award nominee, "Hacksaw Ridge".

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : It was a looong time ago I saw and heard so bad editing, both visual and of sound. Several times the sound goes up and down in the same take. You can hear the wind in the microphone (one example: about 28 minutes into the motion picture). The visual editing time to time is so bad that you can easily and comfortable see that things is changing within the seconds in the same scene. Maybe I also saw the same scene being used twice (watch as Garupe ((Adam Driver)) is hitting hard in the cabin to split the food up). If that is so, this is almost a new low speaking of great productions and speaking of movies nominated for the Academy. The make-up is easily to discover, especially as the Japan Christians is crucified near the water; this is awful! At the same time frame of the movie, you can see how poorly executed the production is as a Christian from Japan is hanged on a cross only bound by his arms. His legs are free and still his arms is bent as he stood on something... what is this? Have the production team just almost fumbled totally on this one? The cinematography is amazing and wonderful, yes, and there the Academy Award nomination comes in hand. Otherwise; I'm so surprised that the surprise almost switches to a chock... oh, my! - The actors : Sometimes Mr. Scorcese is grasping for the natural behaviour so far and too far, that it becomes bad acting. There is a thin line, yes... and Mr. Scorcese had to be blind for that. - Entertainment : Religion, Japan and priests. Entertaining... for me, a vast no. - Age : 15

4,6 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 5 Approved. 4 Failed. Lacking in character.)

Moana (I) (2016)

Moana? Vaiana? Maui?

[6/10 · 12 February 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

In a world... of water and islands... and... in a world of demigods, there lives a girl named Moana. A long time ago, there was an evil force that kept the islanders on the dry land. Suddenly, the heart of the world had kept the secret too long, and there were the chosen one. Does this sound like a fairy tale made by Disney? Well, that is 'cause it is. Moana is a little too sweet, little too deep in the attempt of being cute, funny and amazing. Moana is a good movie. Moana is fun and cute. It could have been a lot better with a more serious matter of conveying the story, the actors and the jokes. This is keeping the movie in the 6,5 barrier instead of jumping up to the good old "Eight of the great", speaking of IMDb.

In the late days, the animation movies has begun to shape the appearances of the characters as a little nod to the real actor behind. So in here; Dwayne Johnson shines through and gives Maui (and yes, "The Rock" is Samoan ((as Maui)) in real life) a solid voice and atmosphere. It is done with such intensity that "The Peoples Eyebrow" is projected onto Maui. The production team also gives the character the little "narcisisstic touch" that The Rock so shines with, speaking of his proud and hard muscles. That is both fun and good to watch.

Nice nod to Raiders Of The Lost Ark 41:30 into the movie. Nice nod to The Abyss with the water as a lifeform... see especially at 1:18 into the movie.

...and.... you're welcome.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Excellent and fantastic animations. - The actors : They are all animated. Did you miss that? (Dwayne Johnson struggles to keep it simple and believable.) - Entertainment : Yes, it is. Just to see all the nods to Dwayne Johnsons character "The Rock" in WWE is funny. All those tattoos.... - Age : 7

6,5 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 7 Well made movie. Proper entertainment. 6 Nice production. Good movie.)

Manchester by the Sea (2016)

Grief, at its purest display.

[6/10 · 12 February 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

Manchester by the sea. The motion picture starring amongst others Casey Affleck, who will have a major breakthrough with this film and his acting. The movie is nominated for several Academy Awards. A movie about grief and tragic events that spins into sorrow. A deep travel into a family that is hit by several tragic things. Think of losing a child. Think of losing two children. Think of losing three children. Think of losing three children at the same time as your house is burning to the ground and your wife is leaving you. Think that all the above is your fault; you caused it. Think thereafter that your brother passes away just some time after. How would any human being react? Maybe Casey Affleck in his tremendous showcase of acting in the role of Lee Chandler can give a glimpse of one human beings sorrow. Manchester by the sea. Prepare for a hard "adventure" into sadness.

I am trying. I am really trying to accept the fact that producers, writers and other external forces surrounding the movie industry want to put people, viewers and audience in an extreme state of sadness. Putting on tragedy and extreme negative life situations to that degree that it becomes a state of mind subconsciously within people is.... in my opinion that is just terrible. Manchester By The Sea made me drop my jaw of anger and sadness after about one hour. It hurt so much to watch that it disturbed me. It brought tears to my eyes. I said "NO!" so loud that it echoed here in my home. It made me feel nausea. I immediately asked myself why... why does the industry move towards tragedy, trauma and sadness? Why do they want some people to almost suffer (as I did when I saw these minutes of the movie)? Is the surface of people so hard that it takes the "core of extreme" to shake and wake the emotions up? The more something comes around, the more of that will become and come our way. So... what about exploring, displaying and conveying more joy, more positively aspects, more light, more "success", more warmth, more ways of being thankful, more ways of being helpful and more understanding? Yes, terrible things happen. They do. All the time. Around us. Media is all over it. Do we need more of it through the movies and series? No, is my direct answer. If we should consider to "Heal the world" (as Michael Jackson once sang) and create an atmosphere as "We are the world" (as both TOTO and Michael Jackson said and sang), then we should build more love, harmony, warmth and joy.

This movie review is one of the strangest reviews I have ever done. That says a lot.

Get me right; Manchester By The Sea is a remarkable movie. Recommended to watch. Well done. It deserves to be nominated. It is so solid and burdensome it almost becomes cumbrous. Know this fact when turning

Manchester By The Sea on. For the first time in a long time, I felt total despair when the end credits arrived. And... I underline the opinions above.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Fantastic editing sometimes! Audio and visuals are spot on. - The actors : Academy Award nominations. Further questions? - Entertainment : See what I wrote above about tragedy and other things. I stand my ground. - Age : 11

6,2 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 7 Well made movie. Proper entertainment. 6 Nice production. Good movie.)

Fences (2016)

Denzel Washington is shining!

[5/10 · 12 February 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

This is based on a play. That is obvious. Denzel Washington is carrying this so gracefully and strong, and still, I find this movie all to long and boring, in fact. Good dialogue, great acting, great composed. I still find it boring. As seeing a theatre in a very slow pace and almost just having a vast dialogue up close.

If you like Denzel Washington and movies moving in a heavy pace from a play to a screenplay, you will love this.

I have to defend Fences also. I have read some reviews giving one or two stars, and saying "it is awful and just plain dull". That is so far wrong. It is interesting, it is vast in acting. Its smooth camera work is exciting. Its costumes and time management of the 50's is astonishing. Therefor I will give this movie a 5,3. Worth the watch.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Academy Award nomination. Further questions? - The actors : Academy Award nomination. Further questions? - Entertainment : Sadly, just a little. Interesting, though. - Age : 13

5,3 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 6 Nice production. Good movie. 5 Approved.)

Jackie (V) (2016)

Natalie. Portman. Fantastic. Academy Award?

[6/10 · 12 February 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

The most of us have heard the story of John F. Kennedy and his death. Herein, it is viewed a little different.

As the story drags through a mist of sorrow and despair of Mrs. Kennedy, the journalist is there to remain steady, calm and deliver a hard hitting social question mark. It is also the journalist that sums the story up, confirming the bitterness of Mrs. Kennedy. Look it up... about 1 hour and 22 minutes into "Jackie".

Natalie Portman delivers such a steady role that it is more than fair that she is nominated for an Academy Award.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Very good regarding the time and era. Great linked into the authentic media that has been used in the movie. - The actors : Natalie Portman. Period. - Entertainment : Natalie Portman... again...and again... she makes the movie worth a watch. - Age : 15

5,9 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 6 Nice production. Good movie. 5 Approved.)

War Dogs (2016)

A pair of dogs... goes to war of guns.

[6/10 · 28 January 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

Interesting story. Guns. War. Money. Twist of a true story. Interesting story. One perspective is that "more want more". So much that it almost always goes down the drain, as it becomes too much to bear for the businessmen.

Keep it simple, be grateful and take it slow, good and easy. These people did the opposite.

Look this up: "Where should we go for dinner?" "180 f-n'tons!"

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Typical American standard: this is a little further stretched than that. - The actors : Deliver what they are they for. - Entertainment : Ups and downs. - Age : 15

6,0 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 6 Nice production. Good movie.)

La La Land (2016)

Prepare for a dance in music and... lala.

[6/10 · 28 January 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

La La Land. I thought that was an Nintendo game. I was wrong.

La La Land. I thought that could be an boring jazz thaaang. I was wrong.

La La Land. I thought a lot of prejudice would do me right. I was wrong. That was right.

Welcome to a medley of the 20's, 30's, 40's, 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's, 90's, 00's and the 2010's. Welcome to an astonishing display of music, theatre, acting, dancing, timing, stepping... and a major nod and salute to the musical classics and all of those people who strive to get somewhere in the show business. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone are vivid in this motion picture.

You take a a little of Academy Award winner "Whiplash" (hey...what do you know.... J.K. Simmons!) and go bananas with "Birdman" and let energy flow through with the twist of "Singin'in the rain". Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone takes on Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds, and out comes: La La Land! Excellent!

As I am myself an musician and more, this movie went into my heart. Wanting that lifestyle... to be able to do the genre of show business that you really dreaming of, and to that full time with a good financial situation. This movie conveys that well.

One definitive sad thing about "La La Land". That one thing made that nice balloon pop and the air went right out, in a strong negative way. In fact... I was going to give this motion picture a strong rate of 8 or more of 10. Then it came... and left me really sad with a strong melancholy inside. There it was... the one thing that made me go "No... why, in this kind of movie?". That settled the score for me. 6,2 out of 10. The reason;"The End".

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Academy Award nominee. Winner of 7 Golden Globes. Questions anyone? - The actors : Academy Award nominee. Winner of 7 Golden Globes. Questions anyone? - Entertainment : Jazz, dance, love. You gotta be able to see past that if you like other things. In that case...... Academy Award...winner of.....well...you know... - Age : 11

6,2 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 7 Well made movie. Proper entertainment. 6 Nice production. Good movie.)

Moonlight (I) (2016)

Moonlight

[6/10 · 28 January 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

Up close an personal. There you will find "Moonlight". Up close and personal. There you will find me now: I feel sadness and tragedy when being displayed the "backside" of The United States Of America. The trash, the broken society, the mental illness, the melancholy in the "bada** attitude".... this make me feel really down. "Moonlight" shows this spot on, and at the same time it gives both contemplation and a beautiful thing as strong friendship and a substitute to father ship. The contrast in the attitudes and the Afro Americans relationship in the back alley of America blended with the vivid classical music and violins creates something special.

Ever seen the movie Boyhood that won 1 Academy Award? Moonlight is a light (pun?) version of that 12 year epic. You follow a bow to the teenage years and through the adult life.

It starts out interesting and caring in the child's childhood. Then, it just becomes more and more slow and boring. Really tried to keep the attention all the way through.

I wish I could be more engaged to this movie. I wish I could say that it deserves 8 Academy Award nominations. I my opinion, yes, it is good. Tragic, negative, sad... so much that it turns the rate down. Why have a great display of misery when the display could have been laughter, joy, success and good? Surely, those things can come from a disturbed youth. And still, the latter is more what should be more of.

2 minutes before the ending screen, there is an intensive and tense moment staring right into that Academy Award. That moment is great... it is better than great. The solid emotions and understanding coming out of love from "You're the only man than ever touched me...." That ending made me put on 6,0 instead of 5,6.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Excellent way of using the innovative music to create emotions. Innovative way to change chapters from childhood to teenage years to adult life. Good audio and good visuals. Effective and striking visual and audio editing! - The actors : Could be a lot of potential here for the future to come. - Entertainment : I wish I could say "YES, INDEED!". It is worth he watch. - Age : 15

6,0 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 6 Nice production. Good movie.)

Doctor Strange (2016)

A strange kind of Marvel.

[5/10 · 21 January 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

A Marvel movie that starts out in the normal world of a world class surgeon with a world class narcissism syndrome. When being a victim of a terrible accident, saying to the surgeon who tells him that they did all they could: "I could have done better."

Somewhere in the out rolling of "Doctor Strange" the movie "Inception" comes into mind more than three times. Is that good or bad? You decide.

To the recommendation part. If you really like Marvel and "super hero" movies with lots and lots of special effects, look this one up. Then it is probably deserved a high ranking, as for an 8 or so. If you are looking for another type of movie, for your own good, turn around and face another motion picture. For you, this one is probably worth only 4-5. Doctor Strange starts out as an interesting way displaying an Marvel story. As the story comes out loud, it fades away into infinity of devastation's, bombs, explosions, superheroes... you get the point.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Special effects. A doctor. And strangely enough more effects. - The actors : Enough. Enough for this type of movie. Benedict Cumberbatch faces his challenge in a good way. - Entertainment : As said before; yes and no. - Age : 15

4,8 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 5 Approved. 4 Failed. Lacking in character.)

Arrival (II) (2016)

Clear and beautiful interpretation with extra terrestrials

[9/10 · 21 January 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

In some movies (often high rated ones) there is a sense and/or something in the beginning that gives away that this motion picture probably in the view of the majority will hit the rate far up and deliver an extraordinary experience for the viewer. Arrival is one of them. As soon as the melancholic, sad, professional and heavy violin starts off to a voice telling its truth in an almost grieving way, I thought and felt; OK...I got it... here they start off with great expectations. This is going to be one of those....

Arrival is the movie about extra terrestrial contact through 12 enormous air crafts from the universe making it's way to earth. Displaying a interpreters' work in speaking with them. This is intact. This is interesting. This is tense. And for them that are interested in an innovative experience. Louise Banks (Amy Adams) and Ian Donnelly (Jeremy Renner) travels through emotional and logic senses trying to solve the language to get to the point: What is your purpose here?

A beautiful, thoughtful and slow paced motion picture about contact and visitation of another life form from... somewhere. Made with such grace and deep feeling that it up rises a different new type of era in the "science fiction" genre... or...how long will it be science fiction? Just the scene with the explosion done in some kind of caring harmony is telling the tale of what I mean.

The production has blended heavy and sentimental every day drama with near and authentic emotion together with a high sensitivity and social description; the explained is on edge and almost done to perfection.

After less than half the movie, I thought that maybe it could be the daughter reincarnated/continued into an extra terrestrial that came to Louise in Costello. I was wrong... or...wait....was I?

Halfway through Arrival, one thing came to my mind frequently. If this movie has the authentic and serious way of wanting to convey the both excitement, entertainment and the continuing on the path of making the film near to grasp, the picture should have a solid ending.

The way Arrival contemplates the special "sixth sense and wonderful talents/gifts" of human beings is remarkable and astonishing! What is out there for us to learn? Is life so much more than our body here and now?

Denis Villeneuve, Eric Heisserer and Ted Chiang has taken a different and innovative turn of events in telling this unique (and at the same time "good old genre") story. Done with a sense of realism, drama and a vast tension that is all over the screen, through the audio field and in the experience. Entertaining to a high degree.

Some great dialogue throughout Arrival: Louise Banks: How about if we just talk to them before we start throwing math problems at them?

Ian Donnelly: It is a good story. Louise Banks: Thanks! It is not true, but it proves my point.

Louise Banks: What should we call them? Ian Donnelly: How about Abbott and Costello?

About the dialogue, I really want to give a little pun for the story, for you all to discover; Sheena Easton, is the arrival of your future past for your eyes only?

I immediately was hooked by Arrival, both for the product itself and also (as written about before in my reviews) because the story and meaning itself went straight to my heart and mind.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Audio; those dark and bass oriented sounds that almost could be as vast alarms and growling sirens brings another huge dimension to the movie; very good done and great collected! The audio is very close and done with more than excellent precision; close your eyes and listen to all the little sounds and effects about 27 minutes into Arrival; amazing! Visual: top notch. All those colours! Look at the innocent and clear white and orange as the team is leaving and entering the "ship". A feast for your eyes (or is it pun intended; "A feast for sore eyes... for your eyes only?")! The environments inside the "aircraft" is fresh, simple and very tasteful... almost artistic. Strong, authentic and straight forward and honest dialogue. - The actors : Golden Globe nominations. Further questions? - Entertainment : Wow. That is a word I said out loud as the team entered the vessel; the artificial "flash light" is thrown up and lands on the wall as it is the floor. Then there is weightlessness and hefty breathing... what is happening? Recommendation? Yes. Why and how? Clear your senses and be opened minded. Arrival has arrived and with the arrival arrives a different kind of twist on the whole "they're here" topic. This is well done. This is a film for those who appreciate extra terrestrial movies, and with that a slow paced and thoughtful one. Otherwise; look for something else. - Age : 11

8,6 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 9 Brilliant and admirable 8 Excellent movie and a solid production)

Rock of Ages (2012)

A rock block... of the ages... for the ages

[4/10 · 4 January 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

Before I start to take apart this movie (sadly, I sense I have to do that), I will give a recommendation to people who like movies with much music in it. And also, maybe to the audience that appreciate all types of musicals. With that said... well.... Here I go again.

Russel Brand. Tom Cruise. Alec Baldwin. Catherine Zeta-Jones. Paul Giamatti. I have one question for you: Why?! Why in the name of Steve Perry did you stop believing in yourself? Was the paradise city taken as we built this city... on disbelief? Come on.... just hit me with your best shot, at least... Or is it more than words to shout out loud that I wanna rock? 'Cause this musical has had its final countdown, though it tries to be any way you want it. And Kevin Nash; even you deserve better. There is greater acting around WM, WWE and TNA so... go there instead.

I tried to watch this (yes, you read that right: tried) with an opened mind for let us say, 4 minutes. The dull acting from the main characters blended with a total lack of display for the naive rock mentality made me say out loud: "What in the world...!?"

One good thing about the motion picture is that there is some kind of an objectivity in finding some jokes here and there. (Often, even they just fall down and leave a tired mark for the history to pick up. The humour during this kind of rock flick must have been the first thing that came to the writers mind. Do you guess that it is bad?) The songs and the rock is taken so far into the polished pop culture that I would say that they have ruined big rock giants. That is a sad fact. I myself is an rocker and loved (and still love) much of that music that "made history stand out".

Justin Theroux, Chris D'Arienzo and Allan Loeb. Did you maybe think that the blockbuster from 2008 needed a more rock solid alternative to the audience? With all respect for Björn and Benny, I've got two words for you (and the intention with those are bad): Mamma mia!

Though... a little nice nostalgic road throughout the songs. Just wonder how they could forget about one leader into the rock ages... spelled with a T and an O, then an T and an O.

Last out... I have to throw and give a nod to a dear friend of mine... you know who you are (read also the review of "Stranger Things")... don't stop, Steve Perry... hmm... continue believing........ well.... 2 hours and 5 minutes into this....

I am now finished with this review. If you think that I have been thundering down on this production, all I have to say is; Every rose has its thorn.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Good colours. Good sound....well.... you decide. The make up is sometimes so bad that it screams for attention. Look at Paul Giamattis hair; oh, my lord! - The actors : Yes. that is the questions. Even with a solid ensemble of actors I ask myself: Adam Shankman, where did you leave them? Where are they? - Entertainment : It is entertaining to write a review to get this off my chest. - Age : 15. Can come down to 11 in some circumstances.

4,5 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 5 Approved. 4 Failed. Lacking in character.)

Nocturnal Animals (2016)

An art gallery of an art gallery owner with an art gallery of revenge.

[8/10 · 2 January 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

First off, I really had some thought in favour and against before turning this motion picture on. Should I watch this? Will this be anything to grasp? If you like movies that is far off the ordinary, watch "Nocturnal animals". Otherwise; look at something else.

A story of a woman being mean and off to her ex partner 20 years in the past, just to be reminded through a script sent to her written by the same partner. A day to day life of the successful art gallery owner Susan Morrow blends with the gritty and hard script sent to her, displayed as a hard boiled drama thriller. Together with the manuscript the production team brings a real hard atmosphere to the audience. The tension that is created with delicacy is amazing; an on edge experience! Tom Ford has done a tremendous job in pushing the actors to create that special moment and tension even more.

This movie is like the film "Neon Demon", speaking of the visual excellence coming into place in the world of (Amy Adams). The difference is that "Nocturnal Animals" has a driven and rough story that both polish the raw side of the fiction and at the same time shows the art of complexity.

The writers have had some clear breakthrough speaking of the creativity within the story. To create a fasade of excellence and state of the art film noir to show a successful woman's life in art, and letting a script show off the thriller side of the movie is genius... pure genius.

Nominated for three Golden Globes, and I have to say that is fair. Remember; revenge is best served ice cold on the rocks... empty left in a restaurant.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : The soundtrack lifts this really high up there. Especially in Susan Morrows life; some both awkward and boring situations tweaked maximum with "dangerous and professional" music spoken out by an orchestra. The touch of letting new angles in the experience for the viewer being shown and come into place is thoughtful and enjoyable to watch. The visual editing is so run through with creativity and innovative thinking that it were more than inspiring to watch. - The actors : Jake Gyllenhaal nails the character of Tony Hastings. His presence and relaxed confidence shines through; many times I were left in awe. One example: look at his outburst at approximately 1 hour and 14 minutes into this one in the little cabin. Fantastic! - Entertainment : As an piece of art; strange and wonderful at the same time. - Age : 15

7,6 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 8 Excellent movie and a solid production 7 Well made movie. Proper entertainment.)

Silent Hill (2006)

Putting the experience on horror edge

[6/10 · 1 January 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

I got one word for this: Disturbing...isturbing...sturbing...turbing...urbing...rbing...bing. ..ing...ng...g....

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Some moments of American standard. - The actors : Some good moments. - Entertainment : What just happened? - Age : 15

6,2 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 7 Well made movie. Proper entertainment. 6 Nice production. Good movie.)

The Secret Life of Pets (2016)

A little feel good movie of crazy pets

[6/10 · 1 January 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

A nice little flick animated for the attention of the pets. It takes the viewer on the long ride down the Pet Boulevard, believe me. Recommended!

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Good. - The actors : Great voices! - Entertainment : Feel good, some laughs and...that is about that. - Age : 15

6,4 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 7 Well made movie. Proper entertainment. 6 Nice production. Good movie.)

The Big Short (2015)

Economics as a confusing way of the world

[7/10 · 1 January 2017]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

A genuine solid movie about economics. A story that has a lot to say both in the perspective of it being an authentic story, and also about how the world is fictionalized to create scenarios of the financial worlds.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Solid. Very good. - The actors : A movie that gained attention in the Academy Award world. Says it all. - Entertainment : If you like an drama with a true story behind and the almost confusing world of economics; yes. - Age : 15

7,5 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 8 Excellent movie and a solid production 7 Well made movie. Proper entertainment.)

The Magnificent Seven (2016)

Ridiculous 6...Magnificent 7...Hateful 8.

[7/10 · 11 December 2016]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

The best western so far of 2016. I will start off with that.

The production team has gathered around and counted for that Italian western atmosphere, and brought it home to America packaging it in that typical touch of Hollywood. I mean that in a positive way, as they have saluted the way of living, the way of striving and the way of fighting back in the 19th century. I have read that Magnificent 7 is a new combined version of "Shichinin no samurai" and "Magnificent 7 1960" (Swedish: 7 vågade livet). Well, the only thing I can say about that with the knowledge I have right now is that Magnificent 7 2016 is well worth the watch. The dialogue that runs through the entire motion picture is almost perfectly executed; professional, sometimes sophisticated, more than sometimes humorous and always drawn back to the wild towns in the wild western.

...and... as usual, Vincent D'Onofrio; everybody's name is Jack.....

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Maybe the make up artists, the director and the producer wanted this to be more subtle than it should have been, as the dust and the gun powder takes over hand, when blood should have run down the gritty streets of Rose Creek. - The actors : A handful of dollars.. I mean actors. Good actors, each and every one carry a more than good character deliverance. Entertaining to see Vincent D'Onofrio team up with such as Ethan Hawke and Denzel Washington, as Mr. D'Onofrio digs deep to get that peculiar man of God and western out of him... "did you see that bear wearing human clothes?" The glorious and... yes, magnificent Haley Bennett as Emma Cullen just gives the film more to enjoy; she is treated in a most precious way to bring forward an adorable and amazing woman. Peter Sarsgaard creates a great villain with a tired and experienced past. - Entertainment : Do you like westerns? Then you will probably like Magnificent 7. And on the other hand.... watch the movie even so. - Age : 15, definitely. Murder, violence, language.

7,2 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 8 Excellent movie and a solid production 7 Well made movie. Proper entertainment.)

Hell or High Water (II) (2016)

A gritty and polished slow rocker... compact.

[8/10 · 11 December 2016]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

Starting right off with a great recommendation for the viewer (and listener) who like really good and solid dialogue. 'Cause herein, there is lots and lots of it. Escpecially from Mr. Jeff Bridges himself. So good, old, relaxed, reasonable and at the same time clumsy and polished dialogue. Great! Nice! More than one really good laugh!

Alberto Parker: Will you order something while you're there? Marcus Hamilton: I doubt they serve pemmican... ALberto Parker: You know I'm part Mexican, too... Marcus Hamilton: Yeah...well...I'm gonna get to that when I'm through with the Indian insults...but it's gonna be a while...

Toby Howard: How the f**k have you been able to stay out of prison for a year? Tanner Howard: It's been difficult...

A movie that a little reminds me of "No country for old men"... and probably will be nominated for an Academy Award.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : Genuine. Solid. Very well fitted music. Intelligent script. - The actors : Genuine. Solid. - Entertainment : Slow and intense. Genuine? - Age : 15

7,8 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 8 Excellent movie and a solid production 7 Well made movie. Proper entertainment.)

Toy Soldiers (1991)

Intense and thrilling school hostage... (did Robert Folk listen to Indiana Jones?)

[8/10 · 11 December 2016]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

It is 2016. Toy Soldiers were made 1991. So... in almost every way, there has been a great development and evolution in the movie industry. With that said, I watch this good old movie with that kind of goggles on me.

Remember watching this as a kid, though I should have watched it years later, as it is rated age 15. Especially one thing made the story get a grip of me and make the whole movie stand out; watch 1 minute and 16 minutes. How often did you (or do you) see a main character go off...? Remember myself shouting right out "NO! NO! NO! He will survive...he will survive!!!" and tears pouring down my cheeks. Now, 2016... yes, it still brings tears to my eyes... along with that similar "Indiana Jones" tune solemnly embracing the situation.

And...here we go again... everybodys' name is Jack, Michael Champion.

A really nice thriller flick surrounding a nostalgic trip that has some flaws here and there. All in all, I highly recommend Toy Soldiers.

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : An amazing soundtrack! That tune has been a dear friend of mine through the years from the first time I saw Toy Soldiers. Otherwise, great production being 1991. Cheesy in some way, yes. Hits me kind of hard how authentic the blood and the wounds is, and how it is conveyed, as it is still 1991. Some awful editing also here and there... examples; the high tones within the dramatic music "Regis School" at the same time as the fire alarm goes off is confusing..... the terrorist leader is in full zoom and does the same thing with his fingers and words as seconds later in a full room shot.....at 1:32, Billy move out from the desk, and the next cut of editing he is still under it; bad editing. - The actors : Sean Astin, the leader in Goonies and leader in Toy Soldiers. Nice to see him making it upfront in this motion picture. I see some similarity between him and Cuba Gooding Jr.; same type of "forced and still authentic" acting. Pushes themselves to act in a reality sense, and gets away with it. Wil Wheaton acts amazing... sorry, Sheldon... he IS good! - Entertainment : Oh, yes! And, again, keep in mind this is a fair and square action thriller with a group of youth teenagers making their manners count, all made back in 1991. If you compare this to "The Silence Of The Lambs" (also 1991), then you will understand why the rating is different. And at the same time, as written before in reviews of this motion picture; Toy Soldiers is underrated on IMDb. - Age : 15

8,0 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 8 Excellent movie and a solid production 7 Well made movie. Proper entertainment.)

The Accountant (2016)

"There are more work for me to do."

[7/10 · 4 December 2016]

**** May contain strong spoilers ****

This is a review made by StoneDraim... and that means that if you want to read a probably different kind of review, keep reading....

This is my personal experience, my personal point of view/perspective and my personal opinion... and my opinion is just one of like 7 billions in this world.

A professional film around a man being a savant and using all that in creating a life out of the ordinary.... in the criminal world. A world of a human surrounded by intelligence and answers in the numbers. All controlled by a severe obsessive compulsive disorder... until one day... when there were more work to do...

The Accountant follows the little fresh and new era of movies nowadays. On one side, there is all this fictionalized series (such as House Of Cards and Stranger Things). On the other side, there is this big and vast productions that is brought to life from an innovative script, or an ordinary story with a huge importance within the twists and tweaks for the story to grow.

The movie gives an interesting value to the addition where otherwise emotional is displayed in a sentimental way as a tragic childhood is portrayed. In here, there is just information about what happened around Christian Wolff and his extreme father trying to discipline the savant side out of his boy. This matter is well made in The Accountant. It fits well in the hard surface that is framing the entire motion picture.

And now... StoneDraims little game of giving off special moments. At about 55 minutes into The Accountant, there is a magic touch of that surface that often can come into place around savant. Mr. Wolff has just made an elegant and hard entrance as a stone cold killer, when he gives a little subtle "Oh...hello!" to the couple witnessed it. Almost brilliant!

And a HUGE nod to Sheldon Cooper at 1 hour and 2 minutes; "Sarcasm... is that sarcasm!?"

I recommend The Accountant. What to learn from it...? Well... A movie that comes around the fact that every human has things deep inside that needs to get out, in one extreme way or another, to create some what of freedom and peace of mind. See about 1 hour and 30 minutes into The Accountant. "You're different... sooner or later different scares people..." What if everybody were uniquely different...? What if the extreme potential and great talent of every human being were brought together around the world...?

Last out: "Hello, dreamboat. Shall we chat?"

Over to the movie as a product: - The production : The way that the silence is used in the first half of The Accountant creates an authentic and realistic emotion. The harsh world of the savant is there in given air; great! - The actors : Ben Affleck and/or Gavon O'Connor should have studied and developed the psychological and emotional aspects around an extraordinary intelligent human being (savant). This fact gasps for air desperately and make the rate go down a bit, as the other actors delivers a good way of acting. JK Simmons; a first class actor! - Entertainment : Yes. An unique drama thriller that stands out. An almost kind of "feel good" thriller... well intended, indeed. - Age : 15

7,1 out of 10. (The final rate is based most on my own entertainment of the movie. Short elucidation of the rating: 8 Excellent movie and a solid production 7 Well made movie. Proper entertainment.)