Category: Action

Action Blockbuster

“Black Widow”

By Brett_G on

8.4

Hell of a send-off for Scar-Jo! Bravo!

If this is going to be the new Marvel, post-infinity saga, then I will continue to be a butt in a seat for every one. This was an amazingly well done action film/family drama. The runtime felt a bit long at points, but there were some important character things to round out before the credits rolled.

The entire cast killed it. At least the family. (good lord, I’m becoming Vin Diesel) They seem like they’ve been together for 20 films, not just one. Quips actually land, and you feel a sense of closure at the end that makes “Avengers: Endgame” sit much better.

The post-credits scene was a bit deep in the lore for me, but I’ll find a few Wikipedia articles and get it figured out before the next one.

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Action Comedy

“The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard”

By Brett_G on

7.6

A really solid sequel!

Salma Hayek serves as a strong addition to the now trio main cast here. Also of note, on par with Samuel L. Jackson in saying “motherfucker.” Made me laugh/cheer every time it happened. The villain was meh, but that’s not really the main reason you’re coming to the theater to watch this. Turn your brain off, watch the explosions, and enjoy the laughs along the way. An excellently executed, tight hour and a half action comedy.

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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.

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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.

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Action Blockbuster

“Wrath of Man”

By Brett_G on

8.2

Divine darkness.

Guy Ritchie works his magic yet again. You want an over-the-top, tightly wound action film that’s a work of art at its core? He’s your man. Very similar to “The Gentlemen,” which was also a favorite of mine from last year. Plenty of twists and turns, gore, and Jason Statham growling at people as he methodically massacres in his hunt for justice. Think “John Wick” with just a few more lines of dialogue and a much different haircut.

God, I wish I could pull off stubble like Statham…

Some of the story points were predictable, which is somewhat a symptom of watching this many movies, but they are so well executed (pun intended) that you won’t care. One thing this crew does better than almost anyone in the biz is action. Strap in, and get ready for a wildly entertaining edge of your seat ride.

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