Trap (2024)

 

The latest from M. Night Shyamalan. The premise and execution in the first half of the film wasn’t bad. But then plot holes popped up in nearly every scene, with the ending being one giant one. One can only suspend belief so far. 

Rating: C-

Vice (2018)

 

I put off watching this film because I knew it would provide a depressing picture of democracy that I already knew existed. The worst members of our society are driven by power and wealth, inevitably ending up in DC passing laws and making decisions that make it easier for them and their circle to gain more power and wealth. 

When a politician says they want to make America great again, what they mean is they want to gain more power and money so they can do whatever they want. 

Rating: C+

Snowpiercer (2013)

An ultra-violent actioner that takes place in a self-contained super-train in a post-apocalyptic world where people are segregated by class, both figuratively and literally? Sign me up!

The train turned out to be cooler than I thought. Themed cars such as a marine aquarium, steam saunas, hair salon, greenhouse, and nightclub. Unfortunately, the end of the train and the end of the movie both turned out to be a disappointment. Great ideas for movies rarely have great endings. Snowpiercer was not an exception.

Rating: C

Cooties (2014)

I loved the opening credit montage. Perfect PSA for why meat is disgusting. The movie itself hovers just above a B rated zombie flick. There are occasional funny lines that help make the 90 minutes somewhat palatable.

Rating: C-

Dan In Real Life (2007)

Wonderful. Some of the best interpersonal writing I've seen in a long time. And funny too. Really funny. Steve Carrel is fantastic in this dramatic roll. Seriously, it's amazing to see a Daily Show correspondent just kill some very difficult scenes. This movie is so well written and effortlessly acted, it's impossible not to love it.

Rating: A-

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)

Like nothing you've seen before. It's hip, funny, quirky, and a bit juvenile. Video games infiltrate every part of the production. I really liked the characters and their quick witted interactions.

A miss for me was the focus of the entire film—Scott fighting the 7 evil ex's. If I want to see cartoonish fights, I can watch schlock like Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers. Still, it was refreshing to see something different brought to screen.

Rating: C+

Midnight In Paris (2011)

I should start by saying I hate Paris and I could care less about the 1920’s. The very two things this film happens to be about. I don’t even particularly like Woody Allen movies, although I see quite a lot of them. With that said, I liked Midnight In Paris. It was sweet, funny, and had a nice message.

Rating: C+

Goon (2011)

Small town brawler takes his fists to the hockey rink. There are a few laughs, and it’s watchable, but nothing to wet your pants about.

Rating: C