Author: Brett_G

Blockbuster Horror/Thriller

“The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It”

By Brett_G on

8.9

Upfront, I’m a sucker for this franchise. Spinoffs and all.

The anchor of this film and one of the best parts of the tentpole films in The Conjuring universe is the relationship between Ed and Lorraine Warren. Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson are perfect together. The investment in these two characters takes these films to another level and keeps them above the typical studio horror film status. This film dives much deeper into the chemistry between the dynamic duo and a bit more of their backstory, as they are both tested in ways they haven’t been before. Vera, especially, shines as she takes the lead in this film after Patrick’s character is somewhat sidelined in this round.

Story-wise, it’s pretty straightforward. More of a detective story and a much broader scope than the other two prominent films in the franchise. The cinematography is again off the charts. The camera work is perfectly executed to give the audience all they need, framed just the way it needs to be, and timed for maximum impact. Even when the film leans on topes, they’re so well done that you won’t care.

I get a little worried every time they add to this cinematic universe, and each time my fears have been alleviated by the finished product. The balance is always there with just enough new set upon a foundation of familiarity, with strong enough characters that we follow them to hell and back. Extremely well done. Highly recommend.

No comments
Action Blockbuster Suspense/Thriller

“A Quiet Place: Part 2”

By Brett_G on

8.7

This film’s premise is almost a cheat code for suspense. However, it’s so well done, I don’t care. The balance between heartfelt moments between characters and razor-sharp suspense that leaves you clinging to the edge of your seat… this movie is another masterclass.

Just enough expansion of the story and the world around the characters without losing claustrophobia. Just enough character development without losing the essence of the characters and their relationships with each other. Just enough new characters to keep you invested in the old while adding the intrigue of new.

They were able to play with the monsters much more this time around since there wasn’t as much shock value, but the film also doesn’t beat you over the head with them. The chemistry of this film’s story, the cast, and the brilliant cinematography and sound design immerses you in trusting discomfort.

The only nitpick I really had was when characters would take the stance of “that’s pretty risky, I don’t know…” Come on. Living in silence in a Demogorgon-infested hellhole running out of supplies while you die a slow and painful death of either starvation or loneliness? Spare me. Risk it to get the biscuit.

No comments
Indie Suspense/Thriller

“Profile”

By Brett_G on

6.2

Entertaining enough, but fell flat in the end. I and the rest of row B spent most of the third act laughing at the stupidity of the reporter’s actions. Play stupid games, win stupid prizes. Hundreds of lessons of “what not to do” in the realm of personal security. Especially if you’re catfishing a terrorist. Like, come on!

Technically speaking, I understand why they chose this format for the film, but the screen capture genre seems to have met an appropriately timely death. It had a great deal of novelty in early indie horror films but now feels like it’s a cheap gimmick used to trim the budget of a poorly written project. The sleight of hand doesn’t cover for a story you won’t want to believe is based on a true story by the end. It’s similar to watching a video of a bullfighter being gored by a bull… We in row B left with a feeling of “what did you think was going to happen?”

No comments
Drama Indie

“Dream Horse”

By Brett_G on

7.6

I loved the sense of community that bled through the screen and into your heart while watching this one. The story was a bit cheesy at times, but the people were so damn relatable and likable, you couldn’t help but root for them and their horse. Get ready to cheer like a fool at a movie screen while watching the race scenes. After the past year, it’s great to see such an uplifting film that has a happy ending even more since it’s based on a true story.

No comments
Action Blockbuster Netflix

“Army of the Dead”

By Brett_G on

7.1.

Well, that road head did not have a happy ending…

Turn your brain off and watch the zombie brains explode and the screen fill with the screams and remains of the undead.

The story is a bit inconsistent, not bothering to decide whether it’s a serious family drama or pure action thriller. The runtime is a bit long, but it’s Zack Snyder, so… that’s to be expected. Nitpicks aside, it’s a beautifully done zombie/heist film, with great characters, great action, and one of the best opening sequences of the year. The soundtrack is subtle but spectacular. The characters aren’t the place to go looking for depth but well executed by all involved. Dave Bautista sticks the landing as the lead in this film and the anchor of the team.

Better on a big screen, but will be ok on a big TV. Seems sacrilegious to see the Netflix Studios opening in a theater.

No comments