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The Fall Guy (2024)
Thoroughly enjoyable comedy
This is exactly the type of film that we all need these days: A fun and enjoyable comedic romp with many funny and interesting characters.
I used to watch Lee Majors in the Fall Guy many moons ago, so I was unsure how this remake would be. Well, I thoroughly enjoyed it! Lots of humorous scenes, a somewhat cohesive storyline, and sweet interactions toons between the main characters. All this interspersed with action and comedy based around the stunt man (and woman) job.
If you're looking for a fun, light, humorous movie to take up 90 minutes of your evening, I would highly recommend The Fall Guy.
Baby Reindeer (2024)
Sex, drugs and 80's Pop Rock...and a lawsuit coming
This could've been good...but like hollyweird likes to do, it was ruined by lbgtxxxxx stuff. Spoilers to follow.
By now, everyone knows this film was not a true story and the woman who we were led to believe was a stalker... wasn't. The entire story came from the drug addled head of a loser looking for fortune and fame. And it appears that he found his 15 minutes with this 7-series piece.
We found the first 3 episodes to be well made and captivating. WOW! This is good stuff! Then it became cringy and we started researching to see if what we were watching had actually happened. And we quickly found that others were doubtful, as well. Turns out, it was all made up and now the woman sold to us as a stalker is likely suing for libel and defamation.
What this whole show really was, was a typical Hollywood fantasy where they pack as much perversity into a 45-minute episode as possible. The usual trans character and lots of same-sex sex. And drugs. And blaming others for their failures. And that's what you'll see from the 4th episode on.
Will watch the news to see what happens in court, though I guess NetFlix will have to add a disclaimer to the show now.
There was some cool 80's music scattered throughout this mess, though.
Justified (2010)
The 8.6 rating is definitely NOT justified
Just like the heading of my title stated the 8.6 rating is definitely NOT justified. The first two seasons were decent and then it evolved into an absolute unwatchable mess.
Watchers should understand that this series is basically unbelievable schlock... but chock full of interesting characters and a decent storyline. Until the writers ran out of ideas and started bringing in talentless hacks like Michael Rappaport. That move signaled the death knoll of this show, throwing up the white flag and letting viewers know they were out of ideas and would resort to hiring out-of-work nobodies to boost their ratings. It failed.
Just watch the first two seasons of mindless mush and take it for what it is. Then move on to something better.
Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story (2024)
Rock star turns into a grumpy old liberal
Ugh...this could've been so much better. There was definitely potential and plenty of good material. But in the end, this wasn't about the Band Bon Jovi, this was about the Man Bongiovi.
There's a part in this documentary where JBJ says he doesn't have a messiah complex. Well, it's obvious throughout that he does. From his "My way or the highway" attitude to his Superman tattoo, it's clear that he wants to be #1 and doesn't take criticism well. His band, cowering at every turn, are examples of that.
I did like that this was a "warts and all" production, showing the band's problems, JBJ's vocal issues and, apparently, his diminishing mental faculties. The audience can watch his mind slipping away, just like his voice does. It's sad to watch but it's interesting to see.
I also enjoyed how Richie Sambora was depicted. I felt we got an honest representation of the man, the artist and the band member. That was a classy way to show the struggle unfold.
Lastly, it was frustrating to watch such a potentially decent documentary devolve into a leftist political mess toward the end. It was embarrassing seeing JBJ posture in that manner. But again, his mental health is apparently deteriorating so....
Give this one a hard pass.
Road House (2024)
A lot of fun and action...just know what you're watching
The wife and I watched this remake last night and thoroughly enjoyed it. Really an action movie, it had a little of everything.
Some of our favorite parts were cameos by Post Malone, Conor McGregor and various music groups. Conor McGregor, especially, made us laugh. He didn't take the role too seriously and that's what was so great about it.
And I guess that's what my review is really all about: Don't take some of these movies too seriously. They aren't profound documentaries or epic films...they're just flicks that you can enjoy while relaxing on the couch on a lazy Friday evening.
If you take movies like this in that context, you'll enjoy them more. And very likely, your lives will improve because you're not stressing over silly things.
The Shift (2023)
Good message, so-so acting
I'll go ahead and say up front that my rating is to offset the atheists who come here to poo-poo this film.
That being said, the movie could've been better. While the message and idea were good, the acting just wasn't there. Cringeworthy? Maybe in some parts. Too long? Sure, it could've been trimmed down. Confusing in places? Yup, it was trying to be too much at one time.
And even after all that, we still liked this film for what it represented: An honest attempt at portraying a modern-day retelling of the Bible's Job narrative. And in that regard, this movie succeeded.
I recognized many actors from other AS films. Then there was Sean Austin (Sam from LOTR) in there, too.
I hope to see a lot more from Angel Studios. Perhaps they'll get even better with time.
Arthur (1981)
Females enjoy this Movie for the same reason they like Pretty Woman
Sadly, most females like this for the same reason they like Pretty Woman; an undeserving woman gets the zillionaire.
This movie is as sad in 2024 as it was in the 80's. An over-the-top role by Moore playing a non-functioning alcoholic paired with a classically trained Shakespearen actor (who truly carried the film) and a very out-of-her-element Minnelli just makes a mess of things.
In the end, women like it because the prince ends up rescuing a gutter snipe who would otherwise end up preggers and on lifelong welfare and/or walking the streets.
These kinds of movies substitute hard work for the instant millions from a sucker.
Wuthering Heights (1967)
Kate Bush liked this version; me, not so much
As many of you might know, Kate Bush wrote her song, Wuthering Heights, shortly after she and her family watched this version at home way back when.
And, intrigued, I hunted down the DVD-among all of the available versions-to see why she enjoyed it so much.
On a rainy, dreary Saturday, my wife and I hunkered down and watched all four parts (182 minutes worth). Here are my admittedly unprofessional criticisms:
The setting in the moors, while hauntingly beautiful, wasn't captured well. Everything was blurry and trembly. Yes, I understand these were 1960's production values, but this just seemed cheap and rushed. As did the residence settings and costumes.
The acting was slipshod. While the two main characters were fairly well-acted, most of the other acting was hit or miss...mostly a miss.
I won't comment on Emily Bronte's characters, though none were really likable. Another time, another place. I get that.
We sat through the entire thing but both commented later that it was pretty horrible, overall.
I'd recommend skipping this mess and just watching Kate's video.
The Holdovers (2023)
A decent bit of acting all around...and a perfect Christmas movie
The wife and I watched this last night, mainly due to its good reviews.
Paul Giamatti didn't disappoint, as he's truly an actor's actor. And really, the other members of the cast held their own, as well.
I mentioned in the review title that this is a perfect Christmas movie. That's true in many ways, and no so much in others. Cases in point: It's centered around Christmas; there are gifts and parties and trees and snow. But it isn't always uplifting like other Christmas movies such as Die Hard, say. Just kidding. It can be a bit heavy in parts, but that's just the subject matter...and what makes this film so great.
Lastly, I do like that even though it was digitally filmed, it had a definite old 70's feel to it.
The Baja Bug Movie (2022)
An almost perfect VW Baja Bug documentary
I just finished watching this truly amazing documentary about the Baja Bug. While it mostly focused on the VW Bug being raced in Baja, Mexico, this film really focused on the people that make this vehicle so special.
The vintage and newer film footage mixed with a very cool soundtrack (mostly by Low Volts)-interspersed with interviews from people close to the building and racing of these cars-makes the movie so easy and fun to watch.
I'm a big Baja fan and recognized many of the people and places featured in this film. I kept thinking as I watched that Bruce Brown would've loved watching (and maybe even making) this cool movie.
Absolutely a must-watch if you like Baja or VW Bugs.
Deadwood (2004)
A bunch of cork soakers with filthy mouths
There, I said it. This 3-season, 36-episode show is nothing but a bunch of cork soakers with filthy mouths. With some thrown-in gratuitous sex and violence every other scene. Yes, it's an old (almost 20 years old at this review's writing), so I'm admittedly late to the game.
But I wanted to warn new or potential viewers-or remind previous viewers-that this show is just what audiences wanted back then: Sex, bad language and violence for the sole purpose of entertaining simple minds.
While the main premise is a pretty good one, the writers and producers let the story get away from them and it went downhill from there. It's no wonder it was canceled after 3 seasons, and I'm surprised that it lasted that long.
Good actors, a decent story line, cool old western sets...Just so much wasted potential.
Haunted Mansion (2023)
Scary bad....just who was the target audience?
Ugh, we didn't even make it through 15 minutes so we didn't get to see JLC, Owen Wilson or Danny D.
I'm unsure who this movie was aimed at, but it definitely wasn't me and it definitely wasn't the children. Everyone in the room detested this movie. We thought it was cringeworthy bad...the humor, the acting, the (non-existent) plot, the character development, the actor choices... nothing worked.
We are DisneyWorld/Land fans, especially the Haunted Mansion ride. But I'm truly not quite sure what Disney is thinking these past few years. If they keep on this track, they're going to continue making a bunch of stinkers that people just hate.
Hard pass on this loser movie.
The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy (2023)
Grumpy Canadian doesn't enjoy anything he's being paid to do
Ugh, this had so much potential...but they picked the completely wrong guy for this. He seems put off all the time. He's not gracious or thankful or impressed....just painful to watch.
We get the schtick....but it isn't something normal people want to see. He's flown to far-off exotic locales, introduced to interesting people and given the opportunity to experience things many will never be able to see...and he poo poos it all.
If this series is to continue, perhaps the producers can find a better person for this. Until then, this mess is just tough to watch.
Note: I like Eugene Levy-I think he's a talented, funny actor-and I love travel. This was just a poorly conceived concept.
Mr Inbetween (2018)
In between fun and boring
Maybe it's the Aussie "humor" that I just don't get. Maybe it's the accents that keep me from following all of the dialogue. Whatever it is, I finished Season 1 with a yawn.
It's an OK show filled with OK actors...it just doesn't go anywhere. Each time a short (26 minute) episode ends, I wonder why I keep watching.
Yes, the final episode of Season 1 was pretty good...but that doesn't make up for the other 5 that just plodded along.
The potential was there; the producers and writers just didn't capitalize on it. Hey, maybe this specifically targets Australians (like Vegemite) and that's why many others just don't get it.
I'm giving Season 2 a try but I'm not holding out hope that it'll be any better...
Unacknowledged (2017)
It will be dismissed as rubbish...because it is
It will be dismissed as rubbish...because it is! Seriously, the way-too-long intro tells you all you need to know about this garbage: Clips of bush and the obamas yucking it up. Protesters being gassed. Bombs being drops. Nuclear tests. Oh, the humanity!
It's embarrassing throughout, but the constant "global warming" scare tactics (extraterrestrial brings are VERY concerned about what we are doing to the environment) are laughable.
The experts they bring on, aren't. The proof they assure us is coming, never does. Just speculation and "witnesses" who say they "know stuff."
Just skip this mess.
Mrs. Davis (2023)
Ugh...hard pass. For many reasons.
First off, this definitely had potential. I can see where this might've been much better.
On the plus side, it was an interesting premise and it was filmed well.
However, the cons far outweighed the pros and the unlikeable characters, the poor acting and the confusing and irritating plot line did it in.
As far as spoilers, I'll tell you that you'll see many scenes of teary-eyed actors delivering long, impassioned and silly dialogue. The writing was terrible, too. I should've mentioned that.
Lastly, I was told by a friend who recommended this schlock to me that I should "suspend any religiosity" while watching this 8-episode series. Yes, the show attempted at every point to stick a finger in Christianity's eye...for no real reason other than to send a message and make a statement. That wasn't cool at all.
And I suppose that would be my final review: This whole mess just isn't cool and I'm glad they didn't try to stretch it out over another season or two. Heck, they could've made this a decent 2-hour made-for-TV movie had they just left out the unnecessary BS and poor acting.
Hard pass.
The Chosen (2017)
Simply wonderful...after a slow, jilted start
I wanted to like this, I really did. As a Christian and as a guy who enjoys well made films and shows. And so it was with trepidation that I started watching this series.
I scrutinized each scene for poor acting, shabby cinematography and cheap sets. I was certain it would end up like many made-for-TV series that fell flat. And up until midway through Episode 2, I figured I was correct and I was pretty much done with it.
Then I was hooked. I saw that the characters were interesting and well acted. The sets, clothing and production were really good. I wanted to see more and in two days I'd gone through the first season.
While I might have a couple of picks to nit, overall I am very pleased with all aspects of this series and look forward to the next two seasons. Bravo!
The Journey of India (2022)
Very well made, just very one-sided
We are heading to India soon so we wanted to learn as much as possible about the country-its people, the food and the geography, etc.- before arriving...and this documentary series was part of that research.
Like the title said, it's very well made, it's just very one-sided. It focuses on all of the good without mentioning any of the bad. I'm not saying that's a terrible thing-it was the producers' prerogative to decide what was included and what was left out-but viewers are left with an incomplete picture of the country.
The first few episodes deal with food, ecology/environmental issues, religions and cinema. While those topics are covered pretty well, so many important things are excluded.
The food episode dealt mainly with fancy restaurant cuisine. And while street food and local fare was covered, nothing was said about Delhi Belly.
The religion episode highlighted a half dozen or so prominent religions, implying that everyone gets along just swimmingly...and has forever. Well, that's just not fact based.
The Bollywood episode was pretty good, as well...just very self-promoting. One portion mentioned that anyone can sit in a theatre and watch a movie together. Again, that's not how things really are and certain people (castes) are barred from certain areas....theaters being a particularly touchy subject. And, like the rest of the episodes, Untouchables were complete ignored here.
So, while enjoyable to watch, I should be clear-and the producers should've, too-that this is truly just a multi-episode, live-action tourist brochure.
The Old Man (2022)
Frustratingly slow talkfest
We really wanted to like this. Had many elements that made it watchable. Most of the cast (Bridges, Lithgow, et al) were superb.
I saw no need for the Zoe character. She wasn't very good, wasn't necessary for the plot and had two acting props: Dreamily looking off into space and talking about her ex hubby.
And it's a talk fest...all the time. Characters who should be taking action and doing something...instead get into profound, drawn out conversations.
As well, you're going to have to suspend reality as a 70+ year old man whoops numerous assailants. Fun to see, just not believable.
Lastly, certain characters or character traits, are inserted for no other reason than wokeness. Completely unnecessary for the plot...but so very necessary for certain segments of society.
The dogs were cool, though.
NOTE: The ending was left so another season can be added. I just don't see the point. I can't take any more long-winded chatter.
Trading Paint (2019)
Vinnie Babarino's terrible accent
Oh, c'mon....why? That bad hick accent was just the beginning of the bad stuff happening in this film.
I'll just never understand why decent actors do these horrible movies.
The Social Dilemma (2020)
Truly unwatchable tripe. Such a missed opportunity...
Did my best to watch this but bailed out after less than 20 minutes of terrible acting, liberal fantasy sequences and unrelated cartoons.
This is such an important topic and it deserves to be presented to us in a much better fashion. Having it served in this manner-by woke liberals rolling their eyes and posing at every scene-does everyone a disservice.
Try again, Big Tech slash NetFlix.
But in the meantime, you can skip this tripe.
Wander (2020)
A cheap "Signs" knock-off. Really stinks.
It starts with a banner about black and indigenous people who've been screwed over by "border controls." Really? So you film on reservation land...and think that disclaimer will make everything better?
And just how deep in debt is Tommy Lee Jones that he keeps agreeing to be part of these stinkers?
So, so bad....
The Durrells (2016)
Ugh....these people are dreadful
Just finished watching the entire series...and it was a chore.
The Durrell's are miserably unlikeable. They're helpless and expect others to drop everything they're doing and provide help.
Who among us would like to spend any time with these horrible people? Seriously.
As well, the producers have taken it upon themselves to insert modern issues into 1930's reality...and it's unbelievable.
There were so many missed opportunities...
The Gunfighter (1950)
Even Bob Dylan was impressed
I must've first watched this film back when I was just a kid. Later, when I was listening to Dylan's Brownsville Girl, I recognized this movie being discussed in that song.
I also recognized this movie's premise in a Twilight Zone episode from 1959 called, A Game of Pool.
Always someone on your tail.
Yeah, this is definitely one of my fave westerns. And The Skipper is in there as one of the bad guys, too.
The Woman in White (2018)
Absolutely maddening tripe
Admittedly, I did not read the book. However, I sat through as much of this garbage as I could.
I should've listened to the reviews that explained how bad this really was. If the two gals were just dumb rubes, then fine...they deserved everything they got.
But both were sold to us from the start as strong, smart women...then proceeded to do every dumb thing possible. I mean, really, how many times does one drink drugged tea, waking in a stupor the next day, before one wises up? Arrrrrrggggghhhhhh! Just one poor decision after the other from these suddenly doe-eyed dummies.
And how many times can one realistically get the vapors from being out in the rain for a couple hours?
If this would've been a 90-minute movie, it would've been easier to forgive the directors, producers and actors. But 8 hours? Come on!
Truly maddening how bad this mess is. Stay away.