Education is the key for many opportunities. No matter what job you want to do, education will help you find your way in life. Even if you have problems reading, there are ways that you can get the same education with help. I was the student who had really big problems with math. If i wanted to learn the difficult parts of math, i had to learn through a class especially made for students who needs help. I remember that i was grateful, because if i did not go through that math class, i would not have passed any math tests at all. I would not say i had really good grades in my final years in school, since i did not get a single A. I did get B at most, but i was fine with that. My plan was to focus on working in butcher shops, factories at the end of the 90´s, and i did. So what if something unexpected happens at your school, that might change your future forever ? This is exactly what happened in the really powerful film Notes On A Scandal from director Richard Eyre. The story is surrounded by chaos, when teacher Sheba Hart ( played fantastic by actor Cate Blanchett ) is having an affair with the very young student Steve Connolly ( played really well by actor Andrew Simpson ). When Sheba´s teacher colleague Barbara Covett ( with an outstanding performance from actor Judi Dench ) reveal their secrets, everything falls apart. This film is a perfect example how important it is, not to bend the rules, and stay professional. The line between students and teachers can be very difficult. As a teacher, do you feel secure enough to draw a line, when you feel that one student is not taking you serious ? How do you handle that situation, in a professional way, without disrespecting the student ? This is some of the issues we are about to experience in a film called Dismissed. This is one of the films i came across on VOD, that i knew nothing about. Usually when i don´t know anything about a film, ( except reading what the film is about ), i like to watch a film with a open mind without any expectations. With an unknown cast, and a director i have never heard of before, is Dismissed an unexpected highlight, or a total waste of your precious time ?
Mr. Butler ( Kent Osborne ) is a dedicated teacher, who want to teach students as much as possible. One day his class have a new student. His name is Lucas Ward ( Dylan Sprouse ), and seems to be very intelligent for his age. At first Mr. Butler is curious to see if Lucas is a student who is ready for new knowledge. But it becomes clear that Lucas have problems with the way Mr. Butler writes grades, when he gets a B instead of an A. This is the beginning of a long and painful road, where Lucas makes it very clear, give him an A or something serious could happen. Mr. Butler does not appreciate this threat, so starts to dig into Lucas past. What he is about to find out, will give the image of Lucas a completely different look.
Have you ever seen any actors from Disney TV series be any good ? Usually, most of them are not very good, and you pretty much forget about them. I found out that actor Dylan Sprouse have been in a number of Disney TV series in the past, and he have now moved on to make more serious films. What shocks me most of all, is the fact that actor Dylan Sprouse, is actually the most disturbing character, and most interesting character of this film. I did not expect him to be this good, so well done Dylan. If we look at the plot surrounding Dismissed, we have seen several films that have used the same concept. However, what Dismissed does is to try to be a little bit more intelligent than using the same formula. There are a few twists in the background, as we find out more about the disturbing student Lucas. Another thing i enjoy about Dismissed, is that there are more than one character that is interesting. The teacher Mr. Butler of course, played well by actor Kent Osborne. He feels natural, and seems to go into his character as the nice teacher, who is losing control. I also enjoy the character of shy student Becca, played by actor Rae Gray, who actually have feelings for Mr. Butler. It is a good thing that the film tries to dig into different things, than just the complicated situation for Mr. Butler. That gives the film Dismissed a more solid ground. Director Benjamin Arfmann have directed short films, and TV series in the past. Dismissed is his first feature full film, and i have to say he have done a good job, With such a simple story, he could have easily done everything very predictable. It is clear that he want to give us a deeper psychological look into the mind of a young man with a disturbing personality. Dismissed is nothing original, or does not break new grounds. But as a thriller, i feel that this film have the right elements to make it interesting. I am looking forward to see actor Dylan Sprouse after his performance in Dismissed, i feel that he could be an actor that will surprise us even more in the future. Lesson learned teachers worldwide, do not underestimate the intelligence of your students.
Rating: DDD
onsdag 7 februari 2018
lördag 3 februari 2018
In March, Let's Go Back 20 Years For Roland Emmerich Godzilla
1998, a year i remember for different reasons. I got my first real job at Dafgårds Factory, i listened constantly to Fun Lovin Criminals album 100% Colombian ( their best studio album ), and i remember all the headlines about the George Michael scandal.
But there was one thing about 1998, that was making a lot of buzz around the world. Independence Day director Roland Emmerich was going to release his version of Godzilla. The film was panned by most critics, even fans of the older Godzilla movies was not happy. Since this film was released, people have very different opinions about the 1998 version of Godzilla.
So, since it is 20 years since the film came out this year, i have decided to watch the film again to see how i look at this film, in present day. A review of the 1998 version of Godzilla will be posted in March. New movie reviews are on the way, so see you soon folks, and thank you for readers of my movie review blog worldwide.
Cheers from Daniel
But there was one thing about 1998, that was making a lot of buzz around the world. Independence Day director Roland Emmerich was going to release his version of Godzilla. The film was panned by most critics, even fans of the older Godzilla movies was not happy. Since this film was released, people have very different opinions about the 1998 version of Godzilla.
So, since it is 20 years since the film came out this year, i have decided to watch the film again to see how i look at this film, in present day. A review of the 1998 version of Godzilla will be posted in March. New movie reviews are on the way, so see you soon folks, and thank you for readers of my movie review blog worldwide.
Cheers from Daniel
onsdag 31 januari 2018
The Florida Project
Poverty is a shit hole!
Especially for those who are sick, or have a disease. They are forced to live on a very small amount of money, and it is not their own fault. Of course, there are poor people who appreciate the small things in life, when they actually feel happy about some things in life. Life is hard, and you have to work for everything. Bills, health care, food, clothes, transportation, everything costs money, so the best secure you have is having a job. Then we have the poverty people who does not want to work. Or the people who want to make money, doing criminal activities. And one film that struck my mind, is the film Frozen River from 2008. A very strong crime drama, directed by Courtney Hunt, about 2 women who try to make money, smuggling illegal immigrants into America. Melissa Leo in the lead role as Ray Eddy, a desperate discount store clerk, does one of the best performances in her career. This film clearly showed how desperate poor people will do anything, to make sure they can survive. Another film i still remember is Time Out Of Mind, a 2014 film where legendary actor Richard Gere does a really good performance as the homeless man George. A sad film, about how hard life can be when you don´t have a home, no food, no money, and no self respect. I actually think this is one of the highlights of Richard Gere film career, even if not many people have seen the film. I suggest you check it out on dvd, or blu ray. A lot of films have portrayed people on welfare, having economical problems, or living in poverty. I think this is very important, that film makers can show how life can be, outside all the glamour and all the fancy houses. There is a lot of people out there who barely have food to eat, or any money to pay their bills. While reading Empire Magazine back in November of 2017, i came across a movie review of The Florida Project. The review was really clear, this is a film you have to experience. I finally got a chance to see the film, knowing that this could be something special. Is this one of the best drama films in a long time, or is The Florida Project not as good as so many critics have said it would be ?
Six-year-old Moonee ( Brooklynn Prince ) lives with her young mother Halley ( Bria Vinaite ) in the Magic Castle, a motel in Kissimmee, Florida near Walt Disney World. Moonee plays most of the time with her motel resident-friends Scooty ( Christopher Rivera ) and Dicky ( Aiden Malik ). The kids are stealing, mooching from tourists and cause other problems. Halley have a lot of personal problems, and no money. So she force herself to make money through prostitution, while her daughter Moonee is taking a bath. Motel manager Bobby ( Willem Dafoe ) finds out what she is doing, He warns her about the consequences, since he knows that she is not the best role model for her daughter. Halley does not listen to anyone, but will she understand the serious situation, before it is too late ?
The Florida Project shows a completely different side of life in Florida. You would think it is all palm trees, pools and nice houses, but this film really digs deep inside the poor communities surrounding Florida. You see broken families, stuck in drugs, without no money, and no future ahead of their children. The kids are frustrated, carrying anger inside, and have no moral behavior. What else can they do when their parents can´t give them safety, and a real home ? The film does a really good job, especially portraying how all the poor family children handle the situation. They play, doing ordinary children games, but they also use other people, and put themselves in dangerous situations. I also feel that this film does a really honest portrait on how especially parents, with no education, and no self esteem, are lost in reality. Especially the mother Halley of the young girl Moonee , played really powerful by actor Bria Vinaite. Her performance is exactly what makes this film so disturbing , a young woman with a destructive behavior and have no idea what children needs. Legendary actor Willem Dafoe does one of his best performances in many years, as the motel manager Bobby. You can tell that his character is trying to do his best, to take care of residents, even if some people have big problems. The cinematography by Alexis Zabe looks really good, and it fits perfect with the story surrounding the film. Director Sean Baker have directed a number of films, where especially his 2015 film Tangerine got a lot of movie critics extremely happy. The film was quickly seen as one of the better films of that year, and i remember reading some of the positive reviews. I have not seen the film yet, but i can tell you that i have to see it. Especially now when The Florida Project is such a powerful film, that you won´t forget. Director Sean Baker manage to both handle dramatic situations in a very professional, realistic way, but he also knows how to make characters feel realistic in poverty society. I can understand why many film critics have nominated The Florida Project as one of the best films of 2017, this film is worth that positive feedback. If you want to see a really powerful film, with a sad look on reality, i suggest that you must see The Florida Project.
Rating: DDDD
Especially for those who are sick, or have a disease. They are forced to live on a very small amount of money, and it is not their own fault. Of course, there are poor people who appreciate the small things in life, when they actually feel happy about some things in life. Life is hard, and you have to work for everything. Bills, health care, food, clothes, transportation, everything costs money, so the best secure you have is having a job. Then we have the poverty people who does not want to work. Or the people who want to make money, doing criminal activities. And one film that struck my mind, is the film Frozen River from 2008. A very strong crime drama, directed by Courtney Hunt, about 2 women who try to make money, smuggling illegal immigrants into America. Melissa Leo in the lead role as Ray Eddy, a desperate discount store clerk, does one of the best performances in her career. This film clearly showed how desperate poor people will do anything, to make sure they can survive. Another film i still remember is Time Out Of Mind, a 2014 film where legendary actor Richard Gere does a really good performance as the homeless man George. A sad film, about how hard life can be when you don´t have a home, no food, no money, and no self respect. I actually think this is one of the highlights of Richard Gere film career, even if not many people have seen the film. I suggest you check it out on dvd, or blu ray. A lot of films have portrayed people on welfare, having economical problems, or living in poverty. I think this is very important, that film makers can show how life can be, outside all the glamour and all the fancy houses. There is a lot of people out there who barely have food to eat, or any money to pay their bills. While reading Empire Magazine back in November of 2017, i came across a movie review of The Florida Project. The review was really clear, this is a film you have to experience. I finally got a chance to see the film, knowing that this could be something special. Is this one of the best drama films in a long time, or is The Florida Project not as good as so many critics have said it would be ?
Six-year-old Moonee ( Brooklynn Prince ) lives with her young mother Halley ( Bria Vinaite ) in the Magic Castle, a motel in Kissimmee, Florida near Walt Disney World. Moonee plays most of the time with her motel resident-friends Scooty ( Christopher Rivera ) and Dicky ( Aiden Malik ). The kids are stealing, mooching from tourists and cause other problems. Halley have a lot of personal problems, and no money. So she force herself to make money through prostitution, while her daughter Moonee is taking a bath. Motel manager Bobby ( Willem Dafoe ) finds out what she is doing, He warns her about the consequences, since he knows that she is not the best role model for her daughter. Halley does not listen to anyone, but will she understand the serious situation, before it is too late ?
The Florida Project shows a completely different side of life in Florida. You would think it is all palm trees, pools and nice houses, but this film really digs deep inside the poor communities surrounding Florida. You see broken families, stuck in drugs, without no money, and no future ahead of their children. The kids are frustrated, carrying anger inside, and have no moral behavior. What else can they do when their parents can´t give them safety, and a real home ? The film does a really good job, especially portraying how all the poor family children handle the situation. They play, doing ordinary children games, but they also use other people, and put themselves in dangerous situations. I also feel that this film does a really honest portrait on how especially parents, with no education, and no self esteem, are lost in reality. Especially the mother Halley of the young girl Moonee , played really powerful by actor Bria Vinaite. Her performance is exactly what makes this film so disturbing , a young woman with a destructive behavior and have no idea what children needs. Legendary actor Willem Dafoe does one of his best performances in many years, as the motel manager Bobby. You can tell that his character is trying to do his best, to take care of residents, even if some people have big problems. The cinematography by Alexis Zabe looks really good, and it fits perfect with the story surrounding the film. Director Sean Baker have directed a number of films, where especially his 2015 film Tangerine got a lot of movie critics extremely happy. The film was quickly seen as one of the better films of that year, and i remember reading some of the positive reviews. I have not seen the film yet, but i can tell you that i have to see it. Especially now when The Florida Project is such a powerful film, that you won´t forget. Director Sean Baker manage to both handle dramatic situations in a very professional, realistic way, but he also knows how to make characters feel realistic in poverty society. I can understand why many film critics have nominated The Florida Project as one of the best films of 2017, this film is worth that positive feedback. If you want to see a really powerful film, with a sad look on reality, i suggest that you must see The Florida Project.
Rating: DDDD
The Commuter
Let´s go back 10 years from now. The year of 2008 may not ring any big bells at this moment, of why we should think about this year. But there was actually one movie that came out this year, that changed action films on a completely different level. The film is called Taken, and turned out to be a massive hit in cinemas. Legendary Irish actor Liam Neeson turned out to be the action star, we all dreamed of seeing again. To see Liam Neeson kick ass in Paris, France, turned out to be a really good idea. The film may not be original in any way, but that was not the point with Taken. The point was, if you mess with Liam Neeson, your ass is terminated. And sometimes, that is all you need to have fun in a cinema, or on blu ray. Taken worked so well as an action film, i remember calling it one of the better action films at that time. Since i have followed Liam Neeson´s movie career for a very long time, i have seen him in a lot of really good films, both from the past and closer to present day. The one thing i really appreciate with Liam is that he can basically take on any genre, or any character, and he can deliver solid performances. With classic films such as Schindler´s List, Rob Roy, Michael Collins and many more, there are plenty of films i could recommend. I can´t forget to mention the 2011 film The Grey, a really solid action survival drama, you should pick up on dvd or blu ray. Since Taken was such a big hit, Liam continued the action thriller franchise, and actually made 2 films, Unknown and Run All Night with the same director, Jaume Collet-Serra. I enjoyed both of these films for different reasons, especially because they were both well made action thrillers from a classical genre perspective. I was reading online about upcoming movies during 2017, and came across an article about Liam Neeson´s upcoming film The Commuter. What striked me first was that he was working again with director Jaume Collet-Serra, something that made me pleased. Since i know they have done a good job together in the past, i was hoping that the chemistry would work, this third time around. I also noticed that The Commuter included some other really good actors as well, so of course i had to visit the local cinema. After all these years, is Liam Neeson still the king of traditional action thrillers, or is The Commuter the downfall of his long respected career ?
Michael MacCauley ( Liam Neeson ) is a hard working insurance salesman, who have worked hard for the same company for many years. One day, he finds out that he is fired. His world falls apart, because he have so many bills to pay, and a family to support. Unless he finds a new job, everything will fall apart. On the way home on board a commute train, a woman approach Michael. Her name is Joanna ( Vera Farmiga ), and she have a proposition. In a bathroom, on board this commute train, there is an hidden envelope with a lot of money. At first Michael think this is a joke, that someone is playing with him. But when he realise that she is serious, he begin to think about it. He needs all the money he can get, since he lost his job. But there is a catch, once he takes that money, he will get even more money, if he kills one person on the commute train. If he does not kill this person, his family will be killed. Now, Michael must make a choice, will he kill this chosen person to save his family, or will he try to find a way out of this complicated situation ?
If you have seen many of Liam Neeson´s previous action thrillers in the past, i don´t think The Commuter will change his catalogue too much. However, what The Commuter does a bit different, is that the film have a slightly different twist than just action scenes, and fighting. The main character is actually given a chance to do something unexpected, and that makes this film more interesting. Would you kill a stranger on a train for a lot of money, when you know you really need the money ? Would you be able to do this, and just walk away as nothing never happened ? When you think about Liam Neesons character´s position, he is close to being retired, he lost his job and he might be too old to find another job. And the bills are growing, so what do you do ? The plot is of course nothing original, but what makes this film work ( for the most part ), is that i enjoy the character Michael of Liam Neeson. He seems to be a gentle husband / father, who wants to make sure his family survives. Of course the situation changes throughout the film, as he may be having regrets, if he really should go this far. Liam Neeson is of course always an actor who knows how to make great characters. I would not say The Commuter is one of his better films, but if you enjoy action thrillers, i think this might be appreciated. It is really nice to see both actors Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson in this film. I would imagine most of you recognize their names, especially from both The Conjuring movies. They don´t have any scenes together in The Commuter, but i enjoy their characters, and their screen presence in this film. I hope we will see them again soon. I really appreciate to see legendary actor Sam Neil in this film as Captian Hawthorne, i just wish he had more screen time. The scenes he does appear in, works for me. Other good performances in The Commuter, is of course actor Andy Nyman as Tony, and Ella-Rae Smith as the shy Sofia. The film switches in the end, and become more of an old school traditional action thriller, and this is where i have a few issues. While the film was pretty clever in the beginning, it should have stayed there instead of going into safe mode. The plot could have been developed differently. Director Jaume Collet - Serra have made a film, that may not bring anything new to the table, but clearly knows how to use Liam Neeson in the category he fits into. In the end, i enjoyed The Commuter, especially because of Liam Neeson. He still can kick ass, and he knows how to make solid action thrillers. By the way, the sound effects in the fights, are really good. So my advice is, give The Commuter a chance, if you enjoy old school action films.
Rating: DDD
Michael MacCauley ( Liam Neeson ) is a hard working insurance salesman, who have worked hard for the same company for many years. One day, he finds out that he is fired. His world falls apart, because he have so many bills to pay, and a family to support. Unless he finds a new job, everything will fall apart. On the way home on board a commute train, a woman approach Michael. Her name is Joanna ( Vera Farmiga ), and she have a proposition. In a bathroom, on board this commute train, there is an hidden envelope with a lot of money. At first Michael think this is a joke, that someone is playing with him. But when he realise that she is serious, he begin to think about it. He needs all the money he can get, since he lost his job. But there is a catch, once he takes that money, he will get even more money, if he kills one person on the commute train. If he does not kill this person, his family will be killed. Now, Michael must make a choice, will he kill this chosen person to save his family, or will he try to find a way out of this complicated situation ?
If you have seen many of Liam Neeson´s previous action thrillers in the past, i don´t think The Commuter will change his catalogue too much. However, what The Commuter does a bit different, is that the film have a slightly different twist than just action scenes, and fighting. The main character is actually given a chance to do something unexpected, and that makes this film more interesting. Would you kill a stranger on a train for a lot of money, when you know you really need the money ? Would you be able to do this, and just walk away as nothing never happened ? When you think about Liam Neesons character´s position, he is close to being retired, he lost his job and he might be too old to find another job. And the bills are growing, so what do you do ? The plot is of course nothing original, but what makes this film work ( for the most part ), is that i enjoy the character Michael of Liam Neeson. He seems to be a gentle husband / father, who wants to make sure his family survives. Of course the situation changes throughout the film, as he may be having regrets, if he really should go this far. Liam Neeson is of course always an actor who knows how to make great characters. I would not say The Commuter is one of his better films, but if you enjoy action thrillers, i think this might be appreciated. It is really nice to see both actors Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson in this film. I would imagine most of you recognize their names, especially from both The Conjuring movies. They don´t have any scenes together in The Commuter, but i enjoy their characters, and their screen presence in this film. I hope we will see them again soon. I really appreciate to see legendary actor Sam Neil in this film as Captian Hawthorne, i just wish he had more screen time. The scenes he does appear in, works for me. Other good performances in The Commuter, is of course actor Andy Nyman as Tony, and Ella-Rae Smith as the shy Sofia. The film switches in the end, and become more of an old school traditional action thriller, and this is where i have a few issues. While the film was pretty clever in the beginning, it should have stayed there instead of going into safe mode. The plot could have been developed differently. Director Jaume Collet - Serra have made a film, that may not bring anything new to the table, but clearly knows how to use Liam Neeson in the category he fits into. In the end, i enjoyed The Commuter, especially because of Liam Neeson. He still can kick ass, and he knows how to make solid action thrillers. By the way, the sound effects in the fights, are really good. So my advice is, give The Commuter a chance, if you enjoy old school action films.
Rating: DDD
söndag 21 januari 2018
The Wrong Nanny
I used to have Hallmark Channel on my digital box. I barely watched any films there, because a lot of them were not good. There was maybe a few surprises, that were at least ok, but other than that i would say that most of Hallmark films did not give me anything in return. One of the films i remember Hallmark showing on TV, is a film called Prairie Fever with actors Kevin Sorbo, Lance Henriksen and Dominique Swain. A western film that actually was not that bad, perhaps because Lance Henriksen was one of the films stronger characters. You can find it on dvd, if you want to check it out. Who does not want to see TV series legend Kevin Sorbo ( Hercules in the 90´s ) be a sheriff ? Kevin Sorbo have actually made more films with Hallmark Channel since then, but i can´t say i have seen any of them. The thing about TV movies is that they can be made pretty quickly, on a limited budget. But if you have the right source material, and with a classic actor, you might do something good. Just look at the TV movies with Jesse Stone, played by legendary actor Tom Selleck. This is a good proof that even TV movie productions can work, if you have a passion for the project. There are so far 9 Jesse Stone films with Tom Selleck, and another one is on the way. I think Tom Selleck did the right choice, sticking to TV productions. He is pretty good is tv series Blue Bloods as well. Lifetime movies have continued releasing films every year, especially tons of Christmas movies. And it seems that they get viewers, and a lot of them every year. Lifetime movies seems to be the channel for every family, where you can find romance, drama, or even thrillers. Sounds like the perfect channel right ? I have not seen a Lifetime movie for a very long time, so just for fun i decided to give one of their latest thriller dramas a chance, called The Wrong Nanny. I had no idea what the film was about, i just choosed the film simply because of the poster, hoping it would be a serial killer nanny on the loose. Does this film prove that Lifetime movies can deliver quality, or is this a really bad low budget disaster, not to show at TV at all ?
Stella Armstrong ( Lindsay Hartley ) needs help with her twin children, so she decide to find a nanny. She finally finds Blake ( Freya Tingley ), a sweet young woman who seems to be perfect of taking care of children. But Stella does not know, Blake is carrying a secret from her past, that could change everything.
The Wrong Nanny is a film that is made for a certain kind of audience, who wants everything to have the perfect family look. In fact, this is a film made to please house wives / mothers, who don´t like blood, but want the film to be exciting.
Well, let me tell you the truth.
This film is about as exciting, as watching a grass field grow in a whole year. Sounds fantastic right? I realise now why i have stayed away from so many Liftime movies, because clearly the quality has not changed much at all. We have actors who ( acts ? ) like they came out from Days Of Our Lives auditions, and that is a bad sign. We also have a story that is so thin, you barely remember why you should care. The characters are very flat, and there is no character i feel like connecting to. The women in the film looks great, and that is it. What about the thriller suspense that they clearly try and promote with the poster ? If this film is trying to make a nanny scary, the film fails completely. I realise that this is a TV film, but i have seen TV films that actually can work. And if this is the best they can do with a Nanny who kills, i don´t see a bright future. There is a reason why Terry O´Quinn is still one of the most terrifying serial killers of classic thriller films in The Stepfather, and The Wrong Nanny falls flat in the category known as " Saving Christmas with Kirk Cameron Awful ". Well, at least The Wrong Nanny is not exactly as bad as Saving Christmas, but still....i think you get the picture. Director Craig Goldsmith have only directed one film so far, and that is this film. I suggest Craig that if you have plans to make another Lifetime film, make sure you give that film all the right pieces, instead of throwing it all away. Wow....what a lovely way to start the new year of 2018, watching The Wrong Nanny. I should have known better, not to give this film a chance. I blame all the hours i have suffered watching Fifty Shades Freed trailer in cinemas, You know what, this actually makes perfect sense. The Wrong Nanny is a film you won´t remember, and there is a good reason to why. A TV movie made with no passion for anything at all, except for good looking women.
Rating: D
Stella Armstrong ( Lindsay Hartley ) needs help with her twin children, so she decide to find a nanny. She finally finds Blake ( Freya Tingley ), a sweet young woman who seems to be perfect of taking care of children. But Stella does not know, Blake is carrying a secret from her past, that could change everything.
The Wrong Nanny is a film that is made for a certain kind of audience, who wants everything to have the perfect family look. In fact, this is a film made to please house wives / mothers, who don´t like blood, but want the film to be exciting.
Well, let me tell you the truth.
This film is about as exciting, as watching a grass field grow in a whole year. Sounds fantastic right? I realise now why i have stayed away from so many Liftime movies, because clearly the quality has not changed much at all. We have actors who ( acts ? ) like they came out from Days Of Our Lives auditions, and that is a bad sign. We also have a story that is so thin, you barely remember why you should care. The characters are very flat, and there is no character i feel like connecting to. The women in the film looks great, and that is it. What about the thriller suspense that they clearly try and promote with the poster ? If this film is trying to make a nanny scary, the film fails completely. I realise that this is a TV film, but i have seen TV films that actually can work. And if this is the best they can do with a Nanny who kills, i don´t see a bright future. There is a reason why Terry O´Quinn is still one of the most terrifying serial killers of classic thriller films in The Stepfather, and The Wrong Nanny falls flat in the category known as " Saving Christmas with Kirk Cameron Awful ". Well, at least The Wrong Nanny is not exactly as bad as Saving Christmas, but still....i think you get the picture. Director Craig Goldsmith have only directed one film so far, and that is this film. I suggest Craig that if you have plans to make another Lifetime film, make sure you give that film all the right pieces, instead of throwing it all away. Wow....what a lovely way to start the new year of 2018, watching The Wrong Nanny. I should have known better, not to give this film a chance. I blame all the hours i have suffered watching Fifty Shades Freed trailer in cinemas, You know what, this actually makes perfect sense. The Wrong Nanny is a film you won´t remember, and there is a good reason to why. A TV movie made with no passion for anything at all, except for good looking women.
Rating: D
tisdag 16 januari 2018
Star Wars: The Last Jedi
Last year i turned 40 years old. Its amazing how time flies, and i really appreciate being born in 1977, because the VHS period was a big part of my youth. The 80´s VHS rental stores would soon recognize my face, because i used to rent VHS tapes as a maniac. It was around the year 1986 when i saw the Star Wars movies for the first time, and if i remember correctly it was in the home of The Ostwalds, a neighbor family that collected VHS films, just like myself. But the first Star Wars film i watched as a very young boy, was actually Star Wars: Return Of The Jedi, so i had to see the other films later on. The Star Wars films from director George Lucas ( especially number 4, 5 and 6 ) changed science fiction film history completely. Never before had anyone seen anything like the Star Wars films. The amazing cinematography, the puppets, the costumes, the laser swords, and most of all so many iconic characters. It was clear that director George Lucas had a big vision with these films, to make these epic stories very special. If you ask any male science fiction nerd out there, when did they finally become a man, they will guarantee say after watching The Empire Strikes Back. Can i proof this ? No, but think about it. If you ever mentioned The Empire Strikes Back to a male friend, have you noticed how men hug each other, and cuddle ? I think this is all the evidence we need. After many years apart from the Star Wars franchise, director George Lucas decided it was time to tell the story from the beginning with Star Wars: The Phantom Menace in 1999. I know that many fans have very different opinions about this film. I personally think it is enjoyable, but i can´t stand the character Jar Jar. The next film Star Wars: Attack Of The Clones turned out to be a better film. As the third film landed called Star Wars: Revenge Of The Sith, i finally felt that George Lucas have improved the story, and the characters than The Phantom Menace and Attack Of The Clones. Once more, Star Wars was now left alone for quite some time. When after almost 10 years, we received the news that director J.J. Abrams would direct the next chapter of Star Wars titles The Force Awakens. I actually really enjoyed The Force Awakens, that it was a really good step to the old school structure of Star Wars. The next film Rouge One ( supposed to be the beginning of the Star Wars Antology series ) also turned out to be surprisingly good. So here we are with the new Star Wars: The Last Jedi that was released late last year. Of course i had to experience another Star Wars film in the cinema, to see if this film would deliver the quality that we all hoped for. Do we have another epic science fiction story in cinemas worldwide, or is the magic of Star Wars lost for all eternity with this film ?
Resistance fighters led by General Leia Organa ( Carrie Fischer ) evacuate when the First Order fleet arrives. In an effective counterattack led by Poe Dameron ( Oscar Isaac ), Resistance fighters manage to destroy a First Order dreadnought. The Resistance vessels jump into hyperspace but the First Order pursue them using a tracking device. Kylo Ren ( Adam Driver ) destroys the Resistance support fighters, but hesitates to fire at the lead resistance ship, knowing that his mother Leia is on board the ship. TIE fighters attack the Resistance ship anyway, killing several Resistance leaders. Leia manage to survive as she uses the force. Rey ( Daisy Ridley ) is on planet Arch-To, to try and recruit Luke Skywalker ( Mark Hamill ). When Luke finds out that Han Solo have been killed, and he refuse to go with Rey and help her fight against the dark side. Instead, Luke agree to help Rey teach the ways of the force. Rey finds out that Luke tried to kill Kylo Ren, but failed. Rey want to believe that Kylo Ren can be redeemed, that it is not too late for him. The Resistance is in great danger, as Supreme Leader Snoke ( Andy Serkis ) have plans to make sure that The Resistance will be destroyed, if Kylo Ren can prove that he have the powers to make the First Order proud. But Rey´s Jedi powers are growing stronger, and she could be the key to make sure The Resistance future is secured.
I know that Star Wars: The Last Jedi has divided Star Wars fans worldwide. And this is my personal opinion on this review. As a Star Wars film, i feel that this is a sequel that is good. However, i have some issues with this chapter. First of all, my biggest issue with this film is why Luke Skywalker ( as always played by wonderful actor Mark Hamill ) is not more active, as he just walks around the island. He should be training Rey ( played really good by actor Daisy Ridley ) in some epic Jedi training scenes, to make sure she is ready to fight against the dark side. There are a few training sequences, but they are so small, it does not feel worthy to call Jedi training, if you compare to when Master Yoda trained Luke Skywalker. Speaking of Yoda, he actually shows up late in this film. Another problem i have with this film, is the battle scenes between Kylo Ren ( played really well by actor Adam Driver ) and Luke Skywalker. With 2 such powerful characters, you would have hoped for some majestic laser sword scenes. It does not last very long, because there is more dialogue instead of actual laser sword fighting. I could understand if there is a point made by this, especially from Luke´s perspective. But i can´t help feeling this was made too light, and too soft for a Star Wars battle scene. Now, let´s get to the positive details This film has some really good looking cinematography by Steve Yedlin. He clearly have tried to capture the world of Star Wars in a very effective way. I do like the cast, and i have to say actor Daisey Ridley as Rey is still a fantastic choice. She feels worthy to be a Jedi, and perhaps we could see her in her own film in the future ? That would be interesting to see. Actor Oscar Isaac does another lovely performance as the X-Wing pilot fighter Poe Dameron. He kind of feels like a nostalgic 70´s character, with the right hair style, and the right look for this film. Of course this is the last film where legendary actor Carrie Fischer portrait Princess Leila, before she passed away last year. And she does another lovely performance, as our favourite princess of the galaxy. The action scenes looks great, especially when Rey and Kylo Ren fight the soldiers of Supreme Leader Snoke. The bright red colors and the laser swords flying around, well done. I also enjoy the battle scene between Finn ( another lovely performance by actor John Boyega ) and Captain Phasma. This is the way it should have been in the battle scene between Kylo Ren and Luke Skywalker. Director Rian Johnson ( who directed the surprisingly good sci fi thriller Looper ), have done a pretty good job with Star Wars: The Last Jedi. But i am disappointed with certain details, no question about that. Still, as a Star Wars film, The Last Jedi is a science fiction adventure film that will be enjoyed by ( most ? ) Star Wars fans. I suggest you see the film, if you have seen all the other films. Another one is coming, let´s hope it is even better than this one.
Rating: DDD
Resistance fighters led by General Leia Organa ( Carrie Fischer ) evacuate when the First Order fleet arrives. In an effective counterattack led by Poe Dameron ( Oscar Isaac ), Resistance fighters manage to destroy a First Order dreadnought. The Resistance vessels jump into hyperspace but the First Order pursue them using a tracking device. Kylo Ren ( Adam Driver ) destroys the Resistance support fighters, but hesitates to fire at the lead resistance ship, knowing that his mother Leia is on board the ship. TIE fighters attack the Resistance ship anyway, killing several Resistance leaders. Leia manage to survive as she uses the force. Rey ( Daisy Ridley ) is on planet Arch-To, to try and recruit Luke Skywalker ( Mark Hamill ). When Luke finds out that Han Solo have been killed, and he refuse to go with Rey and help her fight against the dark side. Instead, Luke agree to help Rey teach the ways of the force. Rey finds out that Luke tried to kill Kylo Ren, but failed. Rey want to believe that Kylo Ren can be redeemed, that it is not too late for him. The Resistance is in great danger, as Supreme Leader Snoke ( Andy Serkis ) have plans to make sure that The Resistance will be destroyed, if Kylo Ren can prove that he have the powers to make the First Order proud. But Rey´s Jedi powers are growing stronger, and she could be the key to make sure The Resistance future is secured.
I know that Star Wars: The Last Jedi has divided Star Wars fans worldwide. And this is my personal opinion on this review. As a Star Wars film, i feel that this is a sequel that is good. However, i have some issues with this chapter. First of all, my biggest issue with this film is why Luke Skywalker ( as always played by wonderful actor Mark Hamill ) is not more active, as he just walks around the island. He should be training Rey ( played really good by actor Daisy Ridley ) in some epic Jedi training scenes, to make sure she is ready to fight against the dark side. There are a few training sequences, but they are so small, it does not feel worthy to call Jedi training, if you compare to when Master Yoda trained Luke Skywalker. Speaking of Yoda, he actually shows up late in this film. Another problem i have with this film, is the battle scenes between Kylo Ren ( played really well by actor Adam Driver ) and Luke Skywalker. With 2 such powerful characters, you would have hoped for some majestic laser sword scenes. It does not last very long, because there is more dialogue instead of actual laser sword fighting. I could understand if there is a point made by this, especially from Luke´s perspective. But i can´t help feeling this was made too light, and too soft for a Star Wars battle scene. Now, let´s get to the positive details This film has some really good looking cinematography by Steve Yedlin. He clearly have tried to capture the world of Star Wars in a very effective way. I do like the cast, and i have to say actor Daisey Ridley as Rey is still a fantastic choice. She feels worthy to be a Jedi, and perhaps we could see her in her own film in the future ? That would be interesting to see. Actor Oscar Isaac does another lovely performance as the X-Wing pilot fighter Poe Dameron. He kind of feels like a nostalgic 70´s character, with the right hair style, and the right look for this film. Of course this is the last film where legendary actor Carrie Fischer portrait Princess Leila, before she passed away last year. And she does another lovely performance, as our favourite princess of the galaxy. The action scenes looks great, especially when Rey and Kylo Ren fight the soldiers of Supreme Leader Snoke. The bright red colors and the laser swords flying around, well done. I also enjoy the battle scene between Finn ( another lovely performance by actor John Boyega ) and Captain Phasma. This is the way it should have been in the battle scene between Kylo Ren and Luke Skywalker. Director Rian Johnson ( who directed the surprisingly good sci fi thriller Looper ), have done a pretty good job with Star Wars: The Last Jedi. But i am disappointed with certain details, no question about that. Still, as a Star Wars film, The Last Jedi is a science fiction adventure film that will be enjoyed by ( most ? ) Star Wars fans. I suggest you see the film, if you have seen all the other films. Another one is coming, let´s hope it is even better than this one.
Rating: DDD
måndag 15 januari 2018
40 Years Anniversary Of George A. Romero's Dawn Of The Dead
Hi there movie lovers!
As you might have noticed, i have started posting new movie reviews for this new year, and this is just the beginning.
Now something struck me, while i was going through my dvd collection. In this new year 2018, it is 40 years ago since legendary director George A. Romero released his cult classic Dawn Of The Dead in 1978. And this is something we should celebrate, with a 40th Anniversary Review, that will be posted in February. Horror fans worldwide love this film, and i have not seen this film since....2005? I cant remember exactly, but i realise its time to take a look again. Hopefully you will be curious to see the film after my 40th Anniversary Review. More fresh reviews are also on the way, so stay tuned, and i will see you soon.
Cheers from Daniel
As you might have noticed, i have started posting new movie reviews for this new year, and this is just the beginning.
Now something struck me, while i was going through my dvd collection. In this new year 2018, it is 40 years ago since legendary director George A. Romero released his cult classic Dawn Of The Dead in 1978. And this is something we should celebrate, with a 40th Anniversary Review, that will be posted in February. Horror fans worldwide love this film, and i have not seen this film since....2005? I cant remember exactly, but i realise its time to take a look again. Hopefully you will be curious to see the film after my 40th Anniversary Review. More fresh reviews are also on the way, so stay tuned, and i will see you soon.
Cheers from Daniel
Prenumerera på:
Inlägg (Atom)