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Cementerio del terror (1985)
Cemetery of Terror is another standout horror film from Rubén Galindo Jr. and is an absolute must-see.
I recently watched the Mexican film 🇲🇽 Cemetery of Terror (1985) on Shudder. The storyline follows a serial killer who is caught in the act and shot dead by the police. Meanwhile, a group of teens, thinking it would be "cool," sneaks into the morgue to steal a body for a party. Naturally, they steal the body of the serial killer and manage to bring him back to life. Now, can they undo their mistake before it's too late?
Directed by Rubén Galindo Jr. (Don't Panic), the film stars Hugo Stiglitz (Nightmare City), Erika Buenfil (Grave Robbers), Edna Bolkan (License to Kill), and Raúl Meraz (The Hooded Men from Hell).
This movie is another gem from Rubén Galindo Jr. And has all the vibes of an '80s slasher. The characters and plot are fairly straightforward, but the horror elements are top-tier. The opening kills are fantastic and set a great tone for the rest of the film. The gore effects are excellent, and the corpses and zombies are incredibly well-done, adding to the overall atmosphere. The situation feels utterly hopeless, with no clear way to stop the killer, which leads to a strong and satisfying conclusion.
In conclusion, Cemetery of Terror is another standout horror film from Rubén Galindo Jr. And is an absolute must-see. I'd rate it 7.5-8/10 and highly recommend it.
Ying zhao tie bu shan (1977)
Invincible Armour is an underrated gem in the Shaw Brothers catalog and a must-see for martial arts fans.
I recently rewatched the Shaw Brothers classic Invincible Armour (1977) on Tubi. The storyline follows a young man falsely accused of murder by the Ming dynasty leadership. Forced into hiding, he meets a martial arts expert who teaches him the Invincible Armour fighting style. Once he masters the technique, he sets out to seek revenge and clear his name.
Directed by See-Yuen Ng (Secret Rivals 1 & 2), the film stars John Liu (Secret Rivals 1 & 2), Phillip Ko (Eastern Condors), Yuen Biao (The Prodigal Son), Corey Yuen (Fist of Fury), and Hoi-Sang Lee (The 36th Chamber of Shaolin).
This is another fantastic Shaw Brothers production, immersing you in its world with striking sets, authentic costumes, and a great variety of weapons. The villain is perfectly cast, setting the tone for the entire film. The choreography is top-notch, and the sound effects, especially the weapon clashes, always bring a smile to my face. There's clever and diverse use of weapons throughout, adding to the film's entertainment value. The dialogue brings some humor, and as always, anything Yuen Biao is involved in is a treat. The fight in the woods and the final showdown are martial arts gold, exemplifying the best of the genre.
In conclusion, Invincible Armour is an underrated gem in the Shaw Brothers catalog and a must-see for martial arts fans. I'd rate it 9/10 and strongly recommend it to fans of the genre.
The Demon Disorder (2024)
The Demon Disorder has is far from perfect but has enough solid moments to satisfy horror enthusiasts
I recently watched the Australian film 🇦🇺 The Demon Disorder (2024) on Shudder. The story follows a family that reunites after their father passes away. As old tensions resurface, they uncover unsettling secrets-specifically, their father's bizarre activities that may have opened a literal gateway to hell in the garage. As demons escape and begin attacking, the family must band together to stop them and possibly save the world.
Directed by Steven Boyle in his directorial debut, the film stars Charles Cottier (Home and Away), Dirk Hunter (Rain Fall), Amy Ingram (In Our Blood), and John Noble (The Lord of the Rings).
This is one of those horror movies where the beginning and end far outshine the middle. The film's settings, lighting, and cinematography are top-notch, and the acting and dialogue feel grounded and believable. The opening sequence involving a cow was fantastic, and the demon "birthing" scene is the film's standout moment. The last twenty minutes brought to mind a mix of Pumpkinhead and Aliens, with well-executed costumes, makeup, and some enjoyable gore for horror fans.
In conclusion, The Demon Disorder has is far from perfect but has enough solid moments to satisfy horror enthusiasts. I'd give it a 5.5-6/10 and recommend it with tempered expectations.
Alice (2022)
Alice is a unique and creative period piece with a compelling storyline.
I recently watched Alice (2022) on Tubi. The storyline follows a young woman living on a slave plantation, forced into horrific acts against her will. She devises a plan with her boyfriend to escape, but when things don't go as planned, it leads to a shocking revelation about their true circumstances.
Written and directed by Krystin Ver Linden in her directorial debut, Alice stars Keke Palmer (Nope), Common (Wanted, Madelon Curtis (Jason Goes to Hell), and Jonny Lee Miller (Æon Flux).
The storyline reminded me of Antebellum, but I found Alice to be a more compelling take on the theme. The plot is well-constructed, featuring intense and gritty scenes of slavery and torture. The fight and escape sequences are particularly well-executed, and the "discovery" sequence cleverly engages the audience. Common delivers a strong supporting performance, while Keke Palmer shines as the lead. The dialogue is sharp, and the chemistry between the cast feels genuine. I also appreciated the costume design, especially the depiction of the 1970s, which added to the film's authenticity.
In conclusion, Alice is a unique and creative period piece with a compelling storyline. I would rate it 6.5-7/10 and recommend watching it at least once.
The Beast with a Million Eyes (1955)
The Beast with a Million Eyes has very little to offer, even for diehard fans of 1950s sci-fi horror.
I recently watched The Beast with a Million Eyes (1955) on Prime. The storyline centers around an isolated California farm where an alien spacecraft crashes nearby. The alien entity on board has the ability to see through the eyes of local animals and people, controlling them to kill. Can anyone figure out what's happening and stop it?
This film was co-directed by David Kramarsky, Roger Corman (Deathsport), and Lou Place (Daddy-O), and stars Paul Birch (Not of this Earth), Lorna Thayer (Five Easy Pieces), Dona Cole (The Long Gray Line), Dick Sargent (Bewitched), and Chester Conklin (Fear).
With a shoestring budget of $23,000, the film was initially directed by David Kramarsky, but after one day of shooting, producer Roger Corman stepped in (though he didn't take official credit). While the acting is serviceable, and the family dynamics are decently established, the movie ultimately falls short. The overdeveloped love story drags the pace, and instead of blending science fiction and horror-popular genres of the era-there's a lack of good monsters and/or kills. Worst of all, the monster you wait for the entire film is a psychedelic, underwhelming mess that fails to deliver. The film comes off as cheesy and low-budget.
In conclusion, The Beast with a Million Eyes has very little to offer, even for diehard fans of 1950s sci-fi horror. I'd score this a 2.5/10 and recommend skipping it.
Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths (2010)
Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths is a solid entry in the DC animated universe, though it falls short of its full potential.
I recently rewatched Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths (2010) on Prime. The storyline follows our heroes as they are visited by a Lex Luthor from an alternate universe. He informs them that the Justice League in his world are actually the villains, and he needs their help to stop them. The Justice League, though skeptical, agrees to assist Luthor in saving his universe.
This film is co-directed by Sam Liu and Lauren Montgomery, who also collaborated on Batman: Year One. It features the voice talents of William Baldwin (Backdraft), Mark Harmon (Summer School), James Woods (Casino), Brian Bloom (Once Upon a Time in America), and Gina Torres (The Matrix Revolutions).
This movie had a lot of potential. The animation is excellent, and the characters and their powers are well-depicted. The Crime Syndicate makes for compelling villains, and James Woods shines as the evil version of Batman. I also enjoyed the subplot involving Martian Manhunter's love story and the complex role Lex Luthor plays. You're never quite sure whose side Luthor is on, adding an intriguing layer of mystery until the final fight. However, I did miss Kevin Conroy voicing Batman, and the climactic battle could have been more impactful.
In conclusion, Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths is a solid entry in the DC animated universe, though it falls short of its full potential. I'd give it a 7/10 and strongly recommend it for DC Comics fans.
Devil's Den (2006)
Devil's Den has some entertaining kills and gore but is ultimately a poor From Dusk Till Dawn knockoff.
I recently rewatched Devil's Den (2006) on Tubi. The storyline follows a group of shady characters who converge at a strip club, each with their own hidden motives. As their true intentions are revealed, the strippers suddenly transform into flesh-eating ghouls. Now, the strangers must band together if they hope to escape their deadly predicament.
This film is directed by Jeffrey Burr (Straight into Darkness) and stars Devon Sawa (Final Destination), Ken Foree (Dawn of the Dead), Kelly Hu (The Scorpion King), and Dawn Olivieri (Bright).
The plot of Devil's Den is essentially From Dusk Till Dawn with ghouls instead of vampires, but with fewer compelling subplots, characters, and a noticeable drop in star power-despite a cast that had the potential to make this a much better film. The strip club setting worked well for the horror element, offering plenty of beautiful women and nudity, along with some fun kills and gore. The masks, makeup, and use of contacts showed promise. However, once the film tries to explain what's happening and why, it falls apart. The dialogue turns painfully bad, and even the actors seem to stop taking the material seriously, as if they were filming during a weekend horror convention. It's a shame because this could have been much better. Perhaps it would have worked better as a parody.
In conclusion, Devil's Den has some entertaining kills and gore but is ultimately a poor From Dusk Till Dawn knockoff. I would score this a 4/10 and only recommend it with the right expectations.
BUtterfield 8 (1960)
Butterfield 8 is a solid character-driven piece with excellent performances and storytelling
I recently watched Butterfield 8 (1960) on MAX. The storyline follows a woman who thrives on the fast-paced New York City nightlife, navigating the world of rich, drunk men who frequent it. Many men want to settle her down, marry her, and take her away from it all, but the question remains-can she settle down, and even if she does, can she become the woman they imagine? Her inner demons may prevent her from finding true happiness.
This film is directed by Daniel Mann (The Teahouse of the August Moon) and stars Elizabeth Taylor (Cleopatra), Laurence Harvey (The Manchurian Candidate), Eddie Fisher (Bundle of Joy), and Mildred Dunnock (Death of a Salesman).
Butterfield 8 is an underrated film with great characters, relationships, and authentic scenarios. The dating game and the cat-and-mouse dynamics that come with it are well portrayed. There were moments where I felt sorry for both the women and the men in these relationships. The chemistry between the characters is spot-on, and the mother-daughter dynamic adds depth to the narrative. The subplots, along with the push-and-pull emotions of the characters, are well developed, and the use of the jacket as a metaphor for the protagonist's inner conflict was an insightful touch. The ending was powerful and felt grounded in reality. There's a lot to appreciate here.
In conclusion, Butterfield 8 is a solid character-driven piece with excellent performances and storytelling. I would score this a 7.5-8/10 and strongly recommend it.
Delirio caldo (1972)
Delirium is an unusual Italian serial killer film with some concepts that work better than others.
I recently watched the Italian film 🇮🇹 Delirium (1972) on the Full Moon app on Prime. The storyline follows a serial killer on the loose, with a criminal psychologist and the police working together to stop him. The killer always seems one step ahead, raising suspicion that the psychologist may somehow be involved. To clear his name, the psychologist may have to catch the killer himself... unless the police are right about him.
Written and directed by Renato Polselli (The Monster of the Opera), the film stars Mickey Hargitay (Bloody Pit of Horror), Rita Calderoni (War Goddess), and Tano Cimarosa (How to Kill a Judge).
This film is an intriguing blend of giallo and exploitation. The cinematography feels a bit dated, with some scenes shot too dark. The acting is solid, the women are stunning, and there's no shortage of nudity, sex, and rough torture scenes. The torture sequences, in particular, are well-executed and quite intense. However, the killer can be a bit annoying, which makes parts of the plot predictable. On the positive side, the soundtrack is great, a classic giallo score from this era.
In conclusion, Delirium is an unusual Italian serial killer film with some concepts that work better than others. I'd score this a 6/10 and recommend it only if you know what you're getting into.
Transformers One (2024)
Transformers One is a fantastic relaunch for the series, and I hope it gets plenty of sequels.
My wife and I watched Transformers One (2024) in theaters last night. The storyline follows two minor Transformers on Cybertron who want to help their leader find "the Matrix," a powerful artifact that could restore energy to their people, end their reliance on mining, and possibly change the course of their future. As they search for the Matrix, they uncover secrets from their past, revealing that not everything is as it seems, and a dark truth about Cybertron could alter existence as they know it.
This film is directed by Josh Cooley (Toy Story 4) and features the voices of Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Brian Tyree Henry (Bullet Train), Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow), Keegan-Michael Key (Wonka), Steve Buscemi (Boardwalk Empire), and Laurence Fishburne (The Matrix).
Transformers One is a brilliant new direction for the franchise. The animation is top-notch, and the character dynamics, dialogue, and voice casting are spot-on. The story has clever twists and turns as the heroes discover their true selves, their abilities, and how they fit into the broader Transformers universe. The chemistry between the characters is fantastic, and once the transforming begins, the film really takes off. The movie features smart subplots and two epic concluding battles that were fantastic. We thoroughly enjoyed it.
In conclusion, Transformers One is a fantastic relaunch for the series, and I hope it gets plenty of sequels. I would score it an 8-8.5/10 and strongly recommend it.
Cutting Class (1989)
Cutting Class is a below-average '80s slasher that's notable primarily for featuring an early Brad Pitt.
I recently watched the Brad Pitt '80s slasher Cutting Class (1989) on Tubi. The storyline follows a high school girl torn between two best friends vying for her affection. One is the perfect jock, while the other is a bad boy, recently released from a correctional facility for killing his parents. As people around town start turning up dead, it becomes clear that one of her suitors is the killer-but which one?
Directed by Rospo Pallenberg (Exorcist II: The Heretic), the film stars Donovan Leitch (The Blob), Jill Schoelen (The Stepfather), Brad Pitt (Se7en), Roddy McDowall (Fright Night), and Martin Mull (Clue).
This movie is quintessentially '80s in terms of its storyline, characters, and overall vibe. It features a young Brad Pitt before he became a household name, and he delivers a fun, somewhat comedic performance. The film also boasts a great '80s soundtrack, and the settings fit the plot well. However, that's where the positives end. The horror elements were underwhelming, with weak kills and mostly cutaway scenes. The corpses were decent, but the gore is minimal. The ending is predictable, though it retains some of that nostalgic '80s charm.
In conclusion, Cutting Class is a below-average '80s slasher that's notable primarily for featuring an early Brad Pitt. I'd rate it 5/10 and only recommend it to diehard fans of the genre.
Il sesso degli angeli (1968)
The Sex of Angels aims for cleverness but misses the mark.
I recently watched the Italian crime thriller 🇮🇹 The Sex of Angels (1968) on the Full Moon app on Prime. The storyline follows three stunning Italian women who, after a night of indulgence with an Italian playboy, decide to take him on a ride where his wealth and freedom are at stake.
Directed by Ugo Liberatore (Bora Bora), the film stars Bernard De Vries (Erika), Rosemary Dexter (Eye in the Labyrinth), Doris Kunstmann (Funny Games), Giovanni Petrucci (Death Rides a Horse), and Laura Troschel (The Blind Fly).
This is one of those films that you hope will be more creative than it turns out to be. Yes, the women are beautiful, and the Mediterranean backdrop is undeniably gorgeous. The setup of the plot had potential, but there are some cheesy elements throughout. The "Virgin" subplot felt especially corny. Surprisingly, there wasn't as much nudity as one might expect from a film of this nature. The portrayal of LSD use and its effects, were hilarious. The ending, unfortunately, was too straightforward and predictable.
In conclusion, The Sex of Angels aims for cleverness but misses the mark. I'd score it a 4/10 and recommend skipping it.
Never Let Go (2024)
Never Let Go doesn't introduce anything groundbreaking to the horror genre, but it's still an entertaining and enjoyable watch.
My daughter and I watched Never Let Go (2024) in theaters this evening. The storyline follows a post-apocalyptic world where a mother and her two sons survive off the land. The world is overrun by evil, but they've found a way to ground themselves to mother Earth using ropes, which keeps them safe. However, as the youngest son begins to doubt his mother, he may open the door just enough for evil to creep in and threaten their family-or maybe he's right to doubt her.
This film is directed by Alexandre Aja (High Tension) and stars Halle Berry (Swordfish), Anthony B. Jenkins (The Deliverance), William Catlett (Abigail), and Percy Daggs IV (Undone).
While the movie feels familiar in its post-apocalyptic themes, the characters and their dynamics are engaging enough to keep you invested. The acting is excellent-Berry delivers a powerful and authentic performance, and the child actors exceeded expectations with impressive performances. The relationship between the brothers was especially well done, and Berry's ghost stories added depth. The horror elements worked well, with the evil portrayed effectively and the makeup impressively done. The mystery of "what's really going on" keeps you guessing until the end. Highlights include the intense flower house scene and the transformation sequences, which were horror standouts. The ending was a lot of fun too.
In conclusion, Never Let Go doesn't introduce anything groundbreaking to the horror genre, but it's still an entertaining and enjoyable watch. I'd score it a 6.5/10 and recommend waiting until it hits streaming services.
X2 (2003)
X2: X-Men United is a comic book genre masterpiece and an absolute must-see.
I recently watched X2: X-Men United (2003) on Disney+. The storyline picks up where the previous film left off, with Magneto locked up and Wolverine and Rogue searching for their identities. Enter Colonel William Stryker, who has his own sinister plans for the mutants and kidnaps Professor X. The X-Men must turn to their old foe, Magneto, in order to locate Stryker and save Professor X. Along the way, Wolverine and Rogue's personal journeys are brought into sharper focus.
Directed by Bryan Singer (The Usual Suspects), the film stars Hugh Jackman (Swordfish), Patrick Stewart (Star Trek: The Next Generation), Halle Berry (Swordfish), Ian McKellen (The Lord of the Rings), Famke Janssen (Deep Rising), and Brian Cox (Succession).
This is easily my all-time favorite X-Men movie. The returning cast is fantastic, and their roles are well balanced throughout the film. Nightcrawler's inclusion is a standout, from his incredible White House opening sequence to the legendary airplane scene-both superhero genre all time great highlights. The Wolverine versus Lady Deathstrike fight was awesome too. Stryker makes for a compelling villain, and his connection to the broader X-Men universe unfolds beautifully. Seeing the good and bad X-Men team up adds another layer of excitement, and the final obstacle is executed perfectly. There's nothing here to dislike.
In conclusion, X2: X-Men United is a comic book genre masterpiece and an absolute must-see. I'd score this a 10/10 and strongly recommend it.
Ladrones de tumbas (1989)
Grave Robbers is a horror enthusiast's dream.
I recently watched the Mexican classic 🇲🇽 Grave Robbers (1989) on Shudder. The storyline follows a satanist serial killer who, before being captured and tortured by clergymen, swears to return, resume his killings, and bring forth the Antichrist. Years later, a group of kids, fooling around in an old graveyard, accidentally reads from an ancient book, resurrecting the satanist to fulfill his deadly promise.
Directed by Rubén Galindo Jr. (Don't Panic), the film stars Fernando Almada (Under Siege), Edna Bolkan (License to Kill), Erika Buenfil (Storm Over Paradise), and Ernesto Laguardia (The Wrong Man).
This is such a fun film to watch unfold. The storyline is straightforward, but the killer is awesome, feeling truly unstoppable. The horror elements are top-notch, with an opening torture sequence that sets the tone perfectly. The kills are sudden, gory, and packed with great blood splatter and flying appendages. The special effects team did an excellent job, especially with a chest scene that gave me Alien vibes-it had me grinning! The kills are genuinely entertaining, and the unpredictable ending ties it all together beautifully. There's a lot here for horror fans to love.
In conclusion, Grave Robbers is a horror enthusiast's dream. I'd score this a 7.5/10 and strongly recommend it.
Hang 'Em High (1968)
Hang 'em High is a worthwhile western, but it falls short of what it could have been.
I recently rewatched Hang 'em High (1968) on Prime. The storyline follows a retired lawman wrongly accused of cattle theft and murder. A group of vigilantes catches him, hangs him, and leaves him for dead. However, the lawman survives, rides into town, becomes a lawman once more, and sets out to seek revenge on those who left him hanging.
Directed by Ted Post (Magnum Force), the film stars Clint Eastwood (The Good, The Bad and The Ugly), Inger Stevens (A Time for Killing), Pat Hingle (The Quick and The Dead), Bruce Dern (The Hateful Eight), Alan Hale Jr. (Gilligan's Island), and Dennis Hopper (Easy Rider).
The story is fairly straightforward for a western, but the film shines through its well-developed characters and occasional twists. It's a bit of a rollercoaster of drama, with some surprises along the way. The cast is outstanding, featuring recognizable faces at every turn. While there's plenty of drama and hangings, I felt the film could have used more action, especially shootouts. The dialogue and character interactions are solid, but the ending left me feeling like it was a bit of a copout. It had the potential to be stronger.
In conclusion, Hang 'em High is a worthwhile western, but it falls short of what it could have been. I'd score this a 7/10 and recommend watching it at least once.
The Stepfather (1987)
The Stepfather presents an entertaining concept with a memorable villain, but it could have benefited from more intensity and a higher body count.
I recently rewatched The Stepfather (1987) on Prime. The storyline follows a man who targets single mothers, ingratiating himself into their lives before committing terrible acts against them and their children. We see the stepfather beginning his next mission, while a young girl grows suspicious of him. However, she struggles to convince her mother, who is blinded by her new relationship. As the daughter searches for ways to expose the stepfather, he starts laying traps for her and her mother.
Directed by Joseph Ruben (Dreamscape), the film stars Terry O'Quinn (Lost), Jill Schoelen (Cutting Class), Shelley Hack (Troll), and Stephen Shellen (A River Runs Through It).
The movie opens with a bang, and I really enjoyed how the initial scene sets up the villain. For the most part, the acting is solid, with the characters and their circumstances feeling authentic. While the stepfather occasionally feels too perfect and the mother too gullible, the exaggerated performances fit the film's tone. The horror elements are primarily concentrated at the beginning and end, featuring a great stabbing sequence and a straightforward but satisfying conclusion.
In conclusion, The Stepfather presents an entertaining concept with a memorable villain, but it could have benefited from more intensity and a higher body count. I'd give it a 6/10 and recommend watching it at least once.
What the Deaf Man Heard (1997)
What the Deaf Man Heard is an underrated and unique drama that's definitely worth watching.
I recently watched What the Deaf Man Heard (1997) on Tubi. The story follows a young boy who arrives in a small Georgia town on the same bus his mother disappeared from. He hopes to find clues about her past so he can be reunited with her or his family one day. When he arrives, the townspeople mistakenly believe he is deaf and mute, and he doesn't correct them. He lives in the town for twenty years under this guise, listening and trying to uncover clues about his mother's disappearance and find direction in life.
Directed by John Kent Harrison (You Know My Name), the film stars Matthew Modine (Platoon), Claire Bloom (Clash of the Titans), James Earl Jones (Star Wars), Jerry O'Connell (Stand by Me), and Tom Skerritt (Alien).
This movie was a pleasant surprise and far exceeded my expectations. It's a true Hallmark classic, filled with charming characters, authentic situations, and a compelling storyline. The cast is stellar from top to bottom, with everyone delivering strong performances. The concept itself is unique, and there are standout moments, like the land sale scene and the courtroom closing, which really impressed me. It's the kind of story that keeps you invested, wanting to see what happens next, and the conclusion is satisfying. There's very little to dislike here.
In conclusion, What the Deaf Man Heard is an underrated and unique drama that's definitely worth watching. I would score this a 8/10 and strongly recommend it.
Speak No Evil (2022)
Speak No Evil is a well-written and poetic horror film that starts subtly but ends with a hammer
I recently watched the Danish film 🇩🇰 Speak No Evil (2022) on Shudder. The story follows a struggling couple on vacation with their daughter, who hit it off with an outgoing couple and their young son. After enjoying each other's company, the couples exchange open invitations to visit one another. When the struggling couple decides to visit the more adventurous couple at their home, they soon realize there's a hidden agenda behind the invitation.
Directed by Christian Tafdrup (Parents), the film stars Morten Burian (The Promised Land), Sidsel Siem Koch (The Day We Died), Fedja van Huêt (Invasion), and Karina Smulders (Waiter).
The story builds tension subtly but effectively, doing a great job setting up the characters and their circumstances. The film plays with your emotions, taking you on a rollercoaster of discomfort. The husband's ineptitude is well-established, and how that plays into the overall plot is well-executed. The gradual evolution of the "villains" is brilliantly done, creeping up on you before culminating in a brutal and shocking climax that, while unexpected, feels grounded in realism.
In conclusion, Speak No Evil is a well-written and poetic horror film that starts subtly but ends with a hammer. I'd give it an 8/10 and highly recommend it.
La donna nel mondo (1963)
Women of the World is one of the worst mockumentaries I've seen
I recently watched the Italian film Women of the World (1963) on the Full Moon app on Prime. This light-hearted documentary-style film attempts to depict women around the world performing everyday tasks "accustomed to their culture" while also touching on themes of sexual and lifestyle freedoms supposedly hidden within these women's souls.
The film is co-directed by Paolo Cavara, Gualtiero Jacopetti, and Franco Prosperi, who also collaborated on A Dog's Life.
By the end of this film, I was left wondering what I had just watched. The narration is cheesy, and the content feels scattered. The depiction of a "siren" features one of the worst costumes I've ever seen. At times, it tries to be humorous, but the jokes fall flat. I couldn't quite understand why the runtime needed to be as long as it was.
In conclusion, Women of the World is one of the worst mockumentaries I've seen. I'd score it 1/10 and recommend skipping it.
Emanuelle in America (1977)
Emanuelle in America is essentially a pornographic film with a thin storyline
I recently watched the exploitation film Emanuelle in America (1977) on a random streaming service. The story follows the infamous American journalist, Emanuelle, as she investigates the sex trade in Venice. During her mission, she faces life-threatening danger and must decide whether to abandon her pursuit or push forward with even greater determination.
Directed by Joe D'Amato (Death Smiles on a Murderer), the film stars Laura Gemser (Black Emanuelle), Gabriele Tinti (The Flight of the Phoenix), Roger Browne (Mahogany), and Paola Senatore (The Mean Machine).
This entry in the Emanuelle series is notable for its creative and unique ways of staging explicit scenes. Laura Gemser is stunning throughout, and the film features nudity from start to finish. The infamous horse sequence and cake party are particularly memorable. There are even scenes of actual pornography, such as the Tarzan sequence. The pool scene is visually creative, and the soundtrack complements the film well.
In conclusion, Emanuelle in America is essentially a pornographic film with a thin storyline. I'd give it a 6-6.5/10 and would only recommend it with the appropriate expectations.
The Substance (2024)
The Substance is a movie you'll never forget. The ending will stay with you-whether you like it or not.
I watched The Substance (2024) in theaters tonight. The storyline follows an aging movie star who is advised to take a product that promises a younger, "new and improved" version of herself. However, the medication comes with strict rules-if not followed, the consequences become increasingly severe. As the movie star revels in her new life, it becomes harder to stick to the rules, and breaking them begins to unravel the world of both her selves.
Written and directed by Coralie Fargeat (Revenge), the film stars Demi Moore (Striptease), Dennis Quaid (Innerspace), Margaret Qualley (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood), and Gore Abrams (Hell House LLC).
This is one of the most unique horror films I've seen in a long time. The attention to detail and the horror effects are top-tier. Demi Moore delivers an outstanding performance-she looks great, has more nude scenes than expected, and absolutely nails the role. Dennis Quaid is perfectly cast as a slimy TV executive. The depiction of the era is spot-on, with fun touches like the attire, cars, colors, and furniture, which make it easy to get pulled into this universe. The horror effects are top-notch, making this a must-watch for genre enthusiasts. The initial transformation scene is incredible, and the use of needles is not for the squeamish. There's brilliant use of prosthetics and gore throughout, and one of the wildest blood-splatter sequences I've ever seen. The background score heightens the intensity and drama of each scene. The cinematography, camera angles, and lighting are excellent, giving the film a grindhouse vibe mixed with something out of Tromaville. Also, there's no shortage of butt shots! The ending is pure horror gold-absolutely amazing. That said, it did feel a bit over the top at times, and I thought the movie could have ended earlier, but the full-circle conclusion was poetically satisfying.
In conclusion, The Substance is a movie you'll never forget. The ending will stay with you-whether you like it or not. I'd score it an 8/10 and consider it a must-see for horror fans.
Lady in the Lake (2024)
Lady in the Lake is a complex, beautifully crafted series that's brilliantly executed.
My wife and I recently watched the 7-episode series Lady in the Lake (2024) on Apple+. Set in 1960s Baltimore, the story follows a white woman who decides to leave her family life behind and forge her own path. She aspires to become a respected journalist, and when the body of a Black woman is found in a reservoir, she suspects there's more to the story. Her investigation leads her into the Black underground of Baltimore, where she uncovers not only the truth behind the crime but also gains a deeper understanding of the culture-and herself.
Created by Alma Har'el (Honey Boy), the series stars Natalie Portman (The Professional), Monique Denise Ingram (The Queen's Gambit), Y'lan Noel (Insecure), Brett Gelman (The Other Guys), Pruitt Taylor Vince (Identity), and Josiah Cross (King Richard).
Visually, Lady in the Lake is an artistic masterpiece. It evokes the era beautifully, reminding me of Ratched in its period presentation, while the complex plot development, reminiscent of Twin Peaks, takes viewers down a rabbit hole of subplots that stem from a single death. The writing is superb, but what stands out is the meticulous attention to detail in the costumes, lighting, and cinematography, all of which make this series a visual treat.
The casting is perfect-each character feels fully realized and intricately connected to the plot in a way that echoes Boardwalk Empire. The motivations and perspectives of the characters are carefully developed, and Portman delivers a powerful performance as the lead, portraying a woman torn between societal expectations and her desire for personal fulfillment. The Civil Rights movement looms as a dark backdrop, adding weight to the narrative and shaping the characters' experiences. The series weaves all these elements together seamlessly into a satisfying and impactful conclusion. Even the opening animation is a standout, and the soundtrack sets the tone for each scene brilliantly. There's really nothing to dislike here.
In conclusion, Lady in the Lake is a complex, beautifully crafted series that's brilliantly executed. I'd score this a 9-9.5/10 and highly recommend it.
Class Action Park (2020)
Class Action Park is a wild ride with more depth than you might expect. It leaves you speechless but strangely wanting to experience the madness for yourself.
We recently watched the docuseries Class Action Park (2020) on MAX. The series covers the story of a Wall Street investor with government connections who tried to build his own version of Orlando in northern New Jersey, just outside of New York City. He cut corners, ignored regulations, and created some of the most outrageous and dangerous attractions anyone had ever seen. Unfortunately, the consequences of these actions were borne by the park's attendees and employees.
Codirected by Seth Porges (How to Rob a Bank) and Chris Charles Scott (Five Priests), this docuseries dives deeper than I expected, offering a thorough breakdown of the park's owner, the town, the ride designs, the employee experience, and what it was like to actually visit the park. The filmmakers did a great job explaining the lack of regulation and the disastrous effects it had on the park-goers. The interviews with the families of those affected were heartbreaking. It's also fascinating how long the park operated and how the culture of the 80s, particularly in New Jersey, allowed it to thrive. It almost makes you wish you could have visited, if only to witness the chaos.
In conclusion, Class Action Park is a wild ride with more depth than you might expect. It leaves you speechless but strangely wanting to experience the madness for yourself. I'd score this a 9/10 and highly recommend it.
Saw VI (2009)
Saw VI ranks as one of the weaker sequels in the franchise, with a few standout kills but not enough to make it worthwhile.
I recently rewatched Saw VI (2009) on MAX. The storyline follows the partner of the deceased detective from Saw V as he tries to cover up his involvement in Jigsaw's schemes. In an attempt to distract the detectives, he initiates a new game, all while we uncover more of Jigsaw's grand plan and how the detective became entangled in it.
Directed by Kevin Greutert (Saw X), the film stars Costas Mandylor (Dead Man's Hand), Shawnee Smith (The Blob), Betsy Russell (Private School), Mark Rolston (The Shawshank Redemption), and Darius McCrary (Family Matters).
This sequel falls into the category of mediocre Saw entries, with a premise that doesn't quite deliver. While it does a decent job of revisiting key characters from the series, the overall direction feels lackluster. Even the traps and kills, a staple of the franchise, are underwhelming. That said, the first and final kills stand out, and there's an inventive use of a merry-go-round, but overall, I expected more intensity and creativity from a Saw movie. Some of the final twists felt predictable, and the "ah-ha" moment failed to make an impact.
In conclusion, Saw VI ranks as one of the weaker sequels in the franchise, with a few standout kills but not enough to make it worthwhile. I'd rate it 4/10 and only recommend it to diehard fans of the series.