Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare
Cinematic Sommelier
6.8
Well, that was… something.
Clearly based on a fable from the days of old, this film embraces A24’s “what the hell did I just watch?” method of filmmaking. You may not fully understand what it is that you just watched, but I can assure you that you will leave absolutely fascinated by it. Also, maybe a little disturbed. If I had to come up with a motto for this film, it would be “drunk decisions often lead to the best adventures.”
8.5
The prequel no one asked for, but looking back, should have been asking for.
The origin story of the Kingsman, an eloquently told family drama intertwined with global geopolitics affected by international family drama, wrapped in one of the slickest action films of the year. The directing, cinematography, and choreography are off the chart and exceed the already high bar of the Kingsman franchise. Prepare to be thoroughly entertained for two hours by a political drama. I’m as surprised as you are I just said that. However, if you drench it in scotch, high tea, and high octane adrenaline, you have a hit on your hands. Rasputin is the least interesting part of this, and that’s saying something. Well worth the wait through multiple delays to finally see this action-packed masterpiece on the big screen. Too bad that D-Box motion seats are no longer a fad. This movie would have been INSANE in one of those!
8.1
Not your typical A24 film… Although, it is horrifying in its own way.
A cross between “Shameless” and “Boogie Nights.” Twisted love stories seem to be the official theme of the 2021-2022 Oscar season. Bookending the film with an NSYNC song was a bold move but is oddly fitting in this oddball of a movie. Still not sure if I’m rooting for or against Mikey…
“Going to hell for laughing at this” filmmaking at its finest. Much better than last year’s “Zola.” Definitely not suitable for children. (It’s right there in the title.) And yes, you get to see his red rocket. Or is it in reference to the redhead, Strawberry? I’m confused again about what I just witnessed. If you’re looking to feel like you have your life together, this is the film for you!
6.2
Half-human, half-lamb. There you go. Then there’s a centaur at the end. No idea what the Beach Boys song is there for.
It’s all in Icelandic. I just saved you two hours of your life. To think, this was one of my most anticipated watches of last year… yikes.
8.1
This film makes about as much sense as the title. Be warned.
That being said, all involved deliver brilliant performances in this twisted tale of fame, romance, adolescence, entrepreneurship, showbusiness, and politics. This struck me as a cross between “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” and “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.” More running than any film this side of a Tom Cruise flick, this film’s soundtrack will make you want to dance in the aisles. Fascinating, inventive camera shots. A fun, inspiring original plot. A marvelous addition to Oscar season.
Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare 