Throwback – Page 8 – Brett Garten, Movie Extraordinare

“Jaws: The Revenge”

By Brett_G on June 21, 2020June 21, 2020

6.5

Ah… franchise fatigue.

This series finale is a completely unnecessary addition to the anthology, but it was the 80s, so what the hell? A solid action film that didn’t have to worry about overusing the shark finds it’s place in history as the most obnoxious JAWS. This time… it’s personal. Unlike the past 2 times this shark has returned from the dead to wipe out the remaining members of the Brody family. They also lean pretty heavily on the original, from a not so subtle Chief Brody portrait in the beginning, to the score sounding strangely familiar, to the theft of the ending. Luckily, the shark literally jumps the series in this film, signifying the end of an era.

Comedy Throwback

“The Great Outdoors”

By Brett_G on June 21, 2020

8.5

One of the all time great summer vacation films. Having lived in a summer tourist trap most of my life, I definitely identified with Cammie. The love story between Buck and Cammie is one of my favorites in film. The old school summer fling. John Candy and Dan Aykroyd are at the height of their powers in this one, and have great onscreen comic chemistry. So many great one liners. And a the bald-headed killer bear of Clare County.

Lock and load your shotgun lamp, and take a ride in ‘suck my wake’ across Lake Potowotominimac. Fall in love with a local at the pool hall, and tackle the challenge of eating “the ol’ 96er.” No better way to spend a summer. Yakety yak, don’t talk back.

Horror/Thriller Throwback

“Candyman (1992)”

By Brett_G on May 2, 2020

7.2

Not too shabby… the psychological thriller of “A Nightmare on Elm St.” paired with the gruesome kills of “Friday the 13th.” All summoned by the old “Bloody Mary” ritual. A nice mix of genres with more than enough originality to go around. Well executed jump scares and tension. A well made horror film. Most uncomfortable scene involving bees I’ve seen on the big screen that I can remember.

Comedy Throwback

“Down Periscope”

By Brett_G on May 1, 2020

7.6

Ahoy, matey! Frasier on the high seas!

Kelsey Grammer stars as commander Dodge, in a perfect casting for this goober comedy. The classic rag tag team comes together for shenanigans on their way to victory over the cool kids. An all star buffet of comedic talent, in a well written comedy. Extremely quotable and enjoyable hour and a half at the home cinema. Just the right amount of heart to go with the penis tattoo. So, shove off, and set sail with this naughty nautical navigation of naval warfare.

Action Classic Throwback

“The Towering Inferno”

By Brett_G on April 19, 2020

8.1

Paul Newman and Steve McQueen in the same film just isn’t fair. AND the juice (OJ Simpson) is loose as a security guard, of all things. One of many, but one of the best disaster movies to come out of the 1970s. Tied with “The Poseidon Adventure” in my book. Death defying stunts, amazing practical special effects, and phenomenal acting by almost the entire cast. Only a couple cheesy moments, but that’s to be expected. I also wouldn’t have taken the elevator so often in a fire, but McQueen is a badass and can do as he pleases. I initially balked at the almost-3 hour runtime, but it was well worth it. Classic Hollywood. Short of something like “Backdraft” coming along once every few years, they just don’t make movies like this anymore.