richardhanson-58501 Reviews

Beast (I) (2022)

An Incoherent Whisper rather than a Roar!

[2/10 · 29 August 2022]

A total mess! A real offence to sense!! ....and intelligence!!!

It's more of an opportunity to actually roar with laughter at the incredibly disappointing script, performances and illogical and far-fetched scenes, rather than any roar of approval.

Incommodious and vexatious ....I was squirming in my seat rather than jumping at any (predictable) perceived tense moments.

I can't even feel sorry (like some) for Idris ...he obviously read the script before signing up for this!

And one other thing ....how has this film managed to achieve an average rating of over 5 when the majority of reviews are so low?!

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

TOP FUN!!!

[10/10 · 27 May 2022]

WOW! A Mach 10 out of 10!! After seeing this .... "Where am I?" - "Earth" is very apt when you eventually come back down! A film you can only go and see yourself to make your own mind up, as there will always be a mixed take on any movie like this. But from my humble perspective ....TOP FUN!

Yes, there will be some who pick out some holes in the events, an element of predictability and the usual cliches ....but actually to use an American cliche - this film is still AWESOME!

At an easy to watch 12A, it makes it a great family film if you want to get to spend time with your teenagers, that will even get everyone talking afterwards. Even younger kids will absolutely love it ....and will dream about being a fighter pilot for years to come! Obviously, also get ready for the calls (not just from the youngsters!) for a decent cool pair of shades this summer, but like with the original, that fashion will be back and at least there will be good wear from them ....just like this film (as with its predecessor) will also wear well, stay iconic and, again, will be talked about for years to come too.

Look past some of the very minor shortcomings and the expected, unsurprising jingoism and just go and enjoy "the ride"! Guaranteed smiles, laugh out louds and possible tears but just as important breathtaking action, action and action!

Easily worth the price of the cinema ticket, even for the family, as it will be a classic memory for you all ....it just depends on how many times you go because you WILL be tempted to go again! And if you can see it at an IMAX or 4DX it's definitely one of the few films that's worth it!

So if you're into your blockbusters, this is definitely a genuine one that you can buckle up and enjoy. "Don't think - just do!" ....and you won't regret it!!!

The Cake Eaters (2007)

A homemade cake ...with a cherry on the top!

[9/10 · 10 March 2022]

What an excellent film that I just wasn't expecting. It maybe feels smalltime and has an element of homemade / TV movie about it but the acting and sentimental journey of it help it rise above that.

It has an intimate and charming feel, that just draws you in and leaves you at the end of this short film feeling like you haven't had enough and just wanting that little bit more.

Good performances all round but as for Kristen Stewart, she is definitely the cherry on the top of this cake - she took me aback with her presence and performance in this at just 17 years old.

So if you want to see a "feel good" movie under 90 minutes ....definitely take a big bite into this cake and enjoy!

Detachment (2011)

Detachment is not something you'll find easy after watching this excellent film

[9/10 · 9 September 2021]

I watch 200-300 films a year and rarely bother to write a review .....but after this movie, I just had to put something down in order to SHOUT out a big recommendation for it. Please try and watch it. A very powerful and thought provoking film, with excellent acting all round but especially from Adrien Brody and Sami Gayle.

Yes, it is emotional and even depressing in parts but then it's so true to life that you just get caught up and fall in with the ride.

It is definitely one of those films that stays with you for days after ....."detachment" is not an easy thing to achieve after you've seen this one! Highly recommended.