Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare
Cinematic Sommelier
7.4
Well, this is the most interesting episode of “Below Deck” I think they’ve ever released…
In all seriousness, it’s “Gilligan’s Island” from hell. Not even Woody Harrelson’s charm can distract the audience from the horrifying, imperative truths contained in this film. It’s truly a narrative work of art about class, societal collapse and rebuilding, and human nature. But… It’s an 11/10 on the weird. I also apologize for the cover photo of the trailer. Haha
7.7
It’s “Midsommar” meets “Chef.” And yes, that’s just as strange of a combination as it sounds.
First and foremost, Anya Taylor-Joy ❤️. I will watch anything she’s in. So naturally, my butt was in a seat. Then, they pit her against Voldemort himself, Ralph Fiennes. Fireworks. A masterclass in mysterious contention and connection. The kinship bordering on villainy is something truly special on the silver screen.
Warning – you’ll find yourself laughing more than expected. The comedy tag here isn’t by mistake.
7.1
It’s “Stepford Wives.” Don’t worry about wracking your brain trying to figure out why this whole thing seems familiar. That’s the secret.
That being said, it’s a beautifully shot movie, with some great tension-building sequences and a phenomenal performance from Florence Pugh.
To the good stuff – the drama – you could tell there was something going on on set. Not since seeing Journey live in concert have I seen an ensemble this distant and clearly uncomfortable with each other sharing the stage or the screen. It sadly takes away from some parts, but not necessarily the totality of the movie.
8.2
Maybe not Jordan Peele’s best organized film, but definitely him at the height of his powers. There are 3 or 4 great storylines here. My only complaint is that a couple of the threads are left hanging. other than the narrative shortcomings, it somehow pulls off the sci-fi western!
That being said, this is, technically speaking, a masterpiece. Both small and large scale sets, dramatic scenes and suspenseful scenes that make you feel like you’re on the verge of a coronary. One of the best suspense sequences and one of the most unsettling opening scenes and side quests I’ve seen on the big screen in quite some time.
All tied together with the patented Jordan Peele grand lesson to be learned that effortlessly comes across and earns its impact, as opposed to feeling at all preachy. Bravo to all involved!
P.S. One of the best “nope” scenes I’ve ever seen in a horror movie.
8.4
One of the year’s best. And that’s saying something in the horror genre of 2022.
What makes this clock tick and the tension tear through you as the viewer is how well developed and sympathetic the characters are.
The other thing that puts this film over the top is that it does a fantastic job of showing instead of telling the audience. The visuals are so well executed that they instill a sense of dread that is palpable in the air of the theater. Just when a glimmer of hope appears on the horizon, you soon realize that it’s a mirage in a desert of despair, and we’re in for another twist or turn in this wild ride.
Such originality and respect for the audience and for the craft… brilliantly done!
Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare 