Suspense/Thriller – Page 21 – Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare

“The Invisible Man”

By Brett_G on February 27, 2020

8.3

Couple this with her performance in “Us”… Elisabeth Moss plays crazy almost a little too well. This film had me on the edge of my seat and verifiably uncomfortable almost the entire runtime. The mental anguish is definitely shared between on-screen characters and audience members. The first horror/thriller in a minute that I haven’t been upset at the 2 hour vs. a 1.5 hour runtime. The extra time meant extra intensity, and going deeper into this twisted tale. Some of the best sound design and directing I’ve seen in quite some time. Chilling, never cheesy. Kudos.

“The Lodge”

By Brett_G on February 21, 2020

8.1

Somewhere within “The Shining,” “Hereditary,” and “Midsommar” lies this film. What begins as a straightforward tale of cabin fever gone awry quickly unravels into one of the most shocking and unsettling endings I’ve seen in quite some time. Classic A24 style, but not made by A24. Was wondering what happened to this film after it’s initial release and hype from Sundance… glad to see it finally see an official release and live up to, if not exceed the hype. Very artfully executed horror. Not a gore film, but more tense thriller with horror elements. Beware the faint of heart.

Action Documentary Netflix Streaming Suspense/Thriller

“Narcos: Mexico” Season 2

By Brett_G on February 16, 2020

9.1

One of the best seasons so far. The dynamic between agent Breslin and Miguel Gallardo is electric, and caps off the finale with one of the best speeches this side of Benicio Del Toro in “Sicario.” Controlled chaos slow long devolving into complete anarchy, only to be momentarily reigned back into temporary peace… however, Gallardo’s final line of “the animals have been set free” leaves a sense that the next season is going to be especially epic. The heinous violence this series has become known for, set in gorgeous set pieces. Rich characters, exciting “real life often writes better than Hollywood” story… another home run for the red menace. (Netflix.)

Foreign Suspense/Thriller

“Parasite”

By Brett_G on February 9, 2020February 9, 2020

8.1

Definitely see why this is getting so much attention during awards season. It’s been a long time since I’ve enjoyed a foreign language film this much. Beautiful cinematography and powerful storytelling. The imagery and substance somehow overcome the distraction of the subtitles, and almost transcends the language barrier to tell the story of the families involved. A striking twist, and a Tarantino-esque ending. Bravo!

Blockbuster Suspense/Thriller

“Underwater”

By Brett_G on January 25, 2020March 23, 2020

6.7

Well, the title isn’t a lie… it does happen underwater. Somewhat copying the themes of “The Meg,” the film follows a doomed crew of explorers who drilled too deep and unleashed something unintended. Calamity ensues. Kristen Stewart is in her underwear 79.8% of the run-time. TJ Miller provides much needed comic relief to a group of total Debbie Downers. Meh…

Part of me was thinking “did Fox just green-light every crazy project 2 years out from the merger with Disney? Just for laughs?”