Category: Blockbuster

“The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It”

By Brett_G on June 6, 2021June 6, 2021

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.

“A Quiet Place: Part 2”

By Brett_G on May 29, 2021

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.

Action Blockbuster Netflix

“Army of the Dead”

By Brett_G on May 23, 2021May 23, 2021

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.

Blockbuster Horror/Thriller

“Spiral”

By Brett_G on May 16, 2021

5.8

I was really looking forward to this one… so much for wishful thinking.

It tried to straddle the psychological thriller aspect of the original and the bloodlustful, senseless gore of the next 7 films. These don’t go together, apparently. It failed on both. Jerky editing, horrific pacing, and a storyline that confuses the audience instead of intriguing them

That being said, no one in the world says “muthafucka” quite like Samuel L. Jackson.

They kept it tight, at an hour and a half runtime, which was great. Any longer, and I would have been even more harsh. The theme of hating cops was timely, but got lost with a throwaway villain out past their skis. And… STOP trying to redo the puppet! It’s not going to happen. Get ready to feel underwhelmed walking out of the theater.

Action Blockbuster

“Wrath of Man”

By Brett_G on May 9, 2021May 9, 2021

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.