Redbelt (2008)

 

I wasn't sure what to expect from a David Mamet fight film. Or maybe I did, since there was plenty of drama, emphasis on characters, and everything felt like it could be acted out on a stage. Not sure I bought the ending. 

Rating: C+

Crank (2006)

Jason Statham and the concept were fine. The director's unique shooting style was also very appropriate. It's the writers that ruined this movie. Implausible plot points and disjointed scenes pulled me away from the action. I felt a much better movie could have been made with a more polished script.

Rating: D+

Chappie (2015)

They pulled off what so many other films have attempted to do—create a smart and fun artificial intelligence action movie. Absolutely loved the ending and the possibility of a sequel.

Usually with movies of this kind, I get hung up on all the plot holes, but I didn’t get that with Chappie. Brilliant execution on both emotional and ass-kicking levels. Write Neill Blomkamp a blank check and let him loose on his next project.

Rating: A

Elysium (2013)

Really enjoyed the first half. A lot of creative ideas in this dystopian vision of the future. All special effects and manufactured environments were on point. Excellent camera and sound work. The second half relied more on Hollywood clichés, following a familiar path to a semi-sweet ending.

Rating: C+

Disturbia (2007)

A little bit The Girl Next Door, a little bit What Lies Beneath. Oh yeah, and that Hitchcock movie it was based on, but more The Girl Next Door. Still, the writing wasn't bad and there was some decent jump scenes that will make you spew your drink if you sip at the wrong time. You could do worse.

Rating: C