Comedy – Page 7 – Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare

“American Fiction”

By Brett_G on January 23, 2024January 21, 2024

8.6

“At least he’d be rejecting the real me.” – This line, in the context of the scene it comes from, was a gut punch for the ages.

Eccentric, esoteric, and in the end, exceptional.

I’ve been intrigued as hell about this one since I first came across the trailer. Jeffrey Wright, Sterling Brown, and Issa Rae never miss, however, this takes things to a whole other level of cerebral subtext. I’m happy to report that not only does it give “South Park” a run for its money in holding a mirror up to the occasional absurdity of our human culture, but it’s also a fabulously crafted family drama under the hood. I didn’t expect the deep emotional impact of that plot to really round out and ground a wild main plot as it did. From the first to the very last frame, I can honestly say I was in disbelief. Absolutely brilliant!

Action Comedy Hulu Romance

“Self Reliance”

By Brett_G on January 17, 2024January 15, 2024

7.8

Anna Kendrick was in it, so you know I had to watch it.

Once I dove in, I was pleasantly surprised by this one! A mix of “Squid Game,” romantic comedy, “It Follows,” and the “Purge” series… in a blender of head-scratchers. The sweet moments and genuine chemistry between Jake Johnson and pretty much every member of the cast caught me off-guard, and really added to the movie itself. Hulu’s known for sleeper hits, and this is no exception! Definitely not your typical action or romance movie, but a fun hour and a half ride!

Comedy TV

“Detroiters”

By Brett_G on January 16, 2024January 15, 2024

8.5

This one walked so that “I Think You Should Leave” could run… Such a perfect balance of Michigander inside jokes and beautiful Detroit scenery alongside Tim Robinson’s insanity. Sam Richardson was such a perfect pairing, along with pretty much every member of the supporting cast. I have no idea how I missed this one for so long, and now feel sad that it only lasted two seasons. Wonderfully weird lightning in a bottle.

Classic Comedy Throwback

“Slap Shot”

By Brett_G on January 15, 2024January 15, 2024

6.9

The hockey version of “Major League”… about a decade before “Major League.” A lot less polished, but just as much ridiculousness, charm, and laughs. I had forgotten just how off the rails this movie gets, but for those who love the game of hockey there’s an undeniable charm about it… in between cringe moments that remind you that the movie was made almost 50 years ago.

A fun classic film night at the theater with this one!

Comedy Drama

“Poor Things”

By Brett_G on December 23, 2023December 23, 2023

7.2

What if instead of a creature who leaves a path of destruction, Frankenstein’s creature left a path of destruction by seduction? That’s I think the best way to sum up this film… It’s a hard one to pin down, but similar to “Barbie,” takes a swing at societal norms and historical lunacy with a cunning wit about it. The look and feel of the film is a cross between Wes Anderson and Tim Burton. Be warned, approximately 1/4 of the runtime is sex scene. Or disturbing closeups of Willem Dafoe. If your not ready for either, they can both be equally jarring experiences. Unlike “Saltburn,” this film pulled of its purpose much more effectively, and was more palatable, which surprised me. It’s weird, and it’s long… but if you’re looking for something different, this is definitely a film for you!