Sunday, January 31, 2016

Movie review: Street Trash

When a liquor store owner finds a dusty old case of Viper in the basement he decides to sell it to the local homeless and make a quick buck. This dark comedy follows along as the homeless find that Viper melts anyone who drinks it!

Mike Lackey (Fred), Bill Chepil (Bill The Cop), Vic Noto (Bronson), Mark Sferrazza (Kevin), Jane Arakawa (Wendy), Nicole Potter (Winette), Pat Ryan (Frank), James Lorinz (Doorman), Tony Darrow (Nick Duran).

Street Trash is a dark, satirical horror from the late 80's that jumps in your face from the start. The storyline is pretty simple; liquor store owner finds a case of Viper, sells it to the local homeless whom Viper melts when it is drank. To add some depth a few colorful characters were added giving us sexual assault, a psychopath reliving Vietnam, and the mob. As if that weren't enough, colorful language and some fairly explicit sexuality accompany the psychedelic melting bums along with raunchy humor. The result is a film you can't stop watching while wondering why you are watching it at all.

Acting was 1980's awful. Missed cues, poor delivery, and lack of emotion were prolific in this one. Lackey and Sferrazza were okay but not good enough to carry the film. Lorinz was enjoyable, if only because of his obvious inexperience and chemistry with Darrow.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were amusing if not enjoyable. The film was apparently shot in a junkyard somewhere which, while providing a realistic backdrop didn't quite fit at times. Special effects were wonderful 80's animation and stunt work that you just don't see anymore. Dialogue was campy, quirky, and just plain nonsense at times. Sound and soundtrack were surprisingly decent.

If you enjoy campy classic horror, B-movies, 80's low-budget special effects, or humor that is over the top, check this one out. For those wanting a plot with depth, or quality production and technical work, move along.

With plenty of foul language, disturbing sexuality including assault, alcohol use, nudity, and the potential for lasting brain damage, save this for older teens and above.

Released: 1987
Reviewed: 1.15.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Horror, Comedy Horror, B-movies, Campy Horror, Dark Comedy

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Friday, January 29, 2016

Movie review: Darkman

Almost killed by gangsters in an explosion, a scientist survives to become Darkman; an incredibly strong, devious, and emotionally tormented antihero.

Liam Neeson (Peyton/Darkman), Frances McDormand (Julie), Colin Friels (Louis), Larry Drake (Durant), Nelson Mashita (Yakitito), Jessie Ferguson (Eddie), Ted Raimi (Rick), Rafael Robledo (Guzman), Dan Hicks (Skip).

Darkman begins well enough with some character introductions and plot setup before the film settles into a decent pace of action and horror punctuated with drama. The story evolves well and holds interest nicely as we watch Peyton's life disintegrate despite his efforts. The plot shifts strongly as Peyton transforms into Darkman and ironically takes control of his now destroyed life.

Acting was pretty good with Neeson doing a much better job as Darkman than he did as Peyton. McDormand was solid if somewhat bland. Drake was a good addition, bringing a darkness to the film and driving the horror. The remainder of the supporting cast was solid and delivered well.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds are nicely done with a big-budget feel throughout. Action scenes were plentiful and nicely done, though the film is starting to show some age with obvious, almost comical, CGI at times. Dialogue was decent with only a few campy moments. Sound and soundtrack were good.

Though showing some age at this point, Darkman remains an enjoyable horror flick due to good technical work, acting, and entertaining plot. Horror fans should put this one on their Must See list if they haven't seen it yet.

With some disturbing images, gore, and violence this should be fine for older teens and above.

Released: 1990
Reviewed: 1.12.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Horror, Action & Adventure, Comic book movies, Crime Action & Adventure, Horror Thrillers

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Movie review: The Godfather

Organized-crime is a thriving business and Vito Corleone is on top of the world, until a rival family tries to kill him. Barely surviving the attack, Vito's son Michael steps in to take over the family business and seek revenge for the attack on his father.

Marlon Brando (Vito), Al Pacino (Michael), James Caan (Sonny), Richard Castellano (Clemenza), Robert Duvall (Tom), Sterling Hayden (Capt. McCluskey), John Marley (Woltz), Diane Keaton (Kay), Abe Vigoda (Tessio).

With a stellar cast and storyline The Godfather is an intricate story that takes a deeper look into an organized-crime family. The plot is detailed and broad painting a big picture of crime, as well as bringing us into the drama and emotions of a well organized crime family. The result is a film that engages the audience on several levels and holds interest well.

Acting was quite simply wonderful with this cast of stars. Brando delivered very well and truly felt like a mob boss. Pacino, young as he was here, did nicely with good delivery and emotion. Caan and Duvall, also quite young, both showed their skills here supporting the main characters very well. The remainder of the cast with few exceptions was very good.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were all nicely done in this apparent big-budget film. Action scenes are good but are also showing some age. Amazingly, old as this film is, it still feels timely when viewing. Dialogue was enjoyable with nice detail and great depth. Sound and soundtrack were nicely done.

I'm not a big fan of crime films nor am I fascinated by organized-crime but The Godfather quite simply is a must-see film. The cast, technical work, and storyline make this a timeless classic that you should see if you haven't.

With violence, foul language, and nudity save this one for older teens and above.

Released: 1972
Reviewed: 1.12.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Crime Drama, Mobster films, Classics, Period Pieces, Movies based on books

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Monday, January 25, 2016

Movie review: Tom Segura: Mostly Stories

Sarcastic and comically bitter Tom Segura pontificates on meeting Mike Tyson, flying, body piercings and men's bodies.

Tom Segura: Mostly Stories is a perfect title for this show as Tom's comedy is shared primarily via stories. Thankfully he is a good storyteller who is able to grab and hold your attention through the punchline. With some mild impressions and a smattering of foul language Tom does a nice job of bringing you into his story and making you feel a part of it while bringing out some good laughs.

The setting is a typical stage format without much in the way of decoration. Camera work is good with Tom well framed and focused upon throughout the show. Sound was well done, and his dialogue was enjoyable.

Those who enjoy off-color or after-dark comedy should enjoy this one.

Rated TV-MA, this one should be fine for older teens and above who have probably already heard, and possibly used, most of the foul language heard in this show.

Released: 2016
Reviewed: 1.11.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Comedy, Stand-up comedy

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Sunday, January 24, 2016

Movie review: StageFright: Aquarius

Frustrated with progress of his musical about a mass killer, the stage manager locks his cast inside the theater vowing to practice until they get it right. What none of them realize is that an escaped mental asylum lunatic is locked inside with them.

David Brandon (Peter), Barbara Cupisti (Alicia), Comenico Fiore (Police Chief), Robert Gligorov (Danny), Mickey Knox (Old cop), Giovanni Radice (Brett), Clain Parker (Irving), Loredana Parrella (Corrine).

StageFright: Aquarius is a strange entry level horror flick that seems to focus more on how the story is told than on the story itself. The plot is familiar, somewhat worn, and has more than a few holes. Though the story is horror, the film seems to focus more on the suspense and drama. The result is a serial killer running around wearing a huge owl head for no apparent reason while a bunch of stage actors run around screaming.

Acting was somewhat bland here with Brandon leading the pack and delivering a low energy performance. Some of the main cast did better investing energy in their performances but it wasn't quite enough, leaving the film feeling bland and lacking.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were typical 80's with a mild fake feel and fuzzy camera work. Action scenes were mild throughout. Dialogue was campy, corny, and could have done more to add depth. Sound and soundtrack were mild.

Overall StageFright: Aquarius isn't a bad film, but it isn't a great film nor does it add much to the genre. Fans of foreign films, Italian films, or foreign horror may enjoy this one. For the rest of you, find something more current.

With some violence, mild nudity, and foul language this should be fine for older teens and above.

Released: 1987
Reviewed: 1.8.16
Star rating: 1 out of 5
Genre: Horror, Foreign Horror, Italian Horror, Mystery, Suspense

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Friday, January 22, 2016

Movie review: The Human Centipede 3: The Final Sequence

Searching for a solution to prison costs, warden Bill and his accountant Dwight find inspiration in the first two Human Centipede films, deciding to turn their prisoners into the largest human centipede ever.

Eric Roberts (Gov. Hughes), Bree Olson (Daisy), Tommy Lister (Inmate 178), Robert LaSardo (Inmate 297), Tom Six (Himself), Dieter Laser (Bill Boss), Laurence Harvey (Dwight), Clayton Rohner (Dr. Jones).

The first two films were quite strange and this one is no different. Warden Boss is tired of unruly prisoners, overcrowding, and riots. He is also quite literally insane and along with his accountant, decides stitching the inmates together into a human centipede will solve all his problems. Throw in some disturbing sexual behavior, cruel twisted violence, and some alcohol and you are in for one warped roller-coaster ride of depravity and lunacy.

I couldn't tell if Laser is actually, truly insane or just a really good actor. Either way his performance was quite disturbing on several levels. Olson was an interesting choice and while pleasant to look at, seemed to be in this one specifically as a porn star. Roberts did well with a somewhat mild and thankfully normal role. Lister and LaSardo were good as always, and it was nice seeing Harvey in a reasonably normal role as well.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were mild but good and seemed to fit the film well. Action scenes ranged from tepid to truly disturbing and were well done. Gore in particular had great impact. Dialogue was mediocre with Laser being ridiculously difficult to understand at times. Sound and soundtrack were okay.

The Human Centipede franchise has found a niche with incredibly disturbing and controversial images and themes. The Human Centipede 3: The Final Sequence is no different. Those who enjoyed the first film should enjoy this one as well.

Quite simply the best warning for this film is to not watch it if you are disturbed by alternative sexuality, gore, violence, or socially controversial themes. If instead you can accept it as entertainment you should enjoy this one.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 1.8.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Horror

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Movie review: The Suicide Theory

Percival is having a rough life he would prefer to simply end. The problem is; he is immortal. A failed suicide attempt under his belt and a paid hit man who can't seem to get the job done, Percival must come to terms with his life before he can die.

Steve Mouzakis (Steven), Leon Cain (Percival), Joss McWilliam (Thomas), Matthew Scully (Brad), Todd Levi (Doctor), Nicholas Cooper (Todd), Erin Connor (Jessica).

The Suicide Theory begins by jumping straight to Percival hiring Steven to kill him. Of course this leads to the two learning about each other which is accomplished via extensive dialogue that unfortunately just isn't very interesting. Some mild action is thrown in but even that isn't enough to keep the story entertaining.

Acting was a bit rough here. Mouzakis felt out of place with a strange attitude and apparent self-worth. Cain was mildly more interesting but couldn't carry the film himself. The rest of the cast was mediocre, feeling somewhat unpracticed and inexperienced.

Technical work in this one was also a bit rough. Washed out colors, strange perspectives, and poor lighting dominated the film. Action scenes were decent enough. Dialogue was somewhat bland and lethargic. Sound and soundtrack were okay.

The Suicide Theory is quite simply a difficult film to engage with. Those who can connect with the story will probably enjoy it quite a bit while those who can't will likely feel the film is a waste of time. Which one will you be?

With violence, foul language, gore, and some sexual content this should be fine for older teens and above.

Released: 2014
Reviewed: 1.8.16
Star rating: 1 out of 5
Genre: Drama, Thriller, Crime Drama, Crime Thriller, Independent Drama

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Monday, January 18, 2016

Movie review: Catwoman

Shy, quiet, and timid Patience is given a gift; the senses, speed, and reflexes of a cat. When the changes upend her life, Patience finds herself struggling to figure out who she is; criminal or hero.

Halle Berry (Patience/Catwoman), Benjamin Bratt (Tom), Sharon Stone (Laurel), Lambert Wilson (George), Frances Conroy (Ophelia), Alex Borstein (Sally), Michael Massee (Armando), Byron Mann (Wesley).

Catwoman is a bit slow to launch as we learn about Patience and her life. As her life begins changing things get quite a bit more interesting. Toss in a love interest, and an evil villain or two, and the recipe for a comic book action adventure flick is complete. The rest of the film is an entertaining journey of discovery for Patience and action for us. A hint of mystery and intrigue ties it all together through the sequel preparation ending.

Berry was a lot of fun in this one, feeling animated and innocently seductive at times, and a good choice. Bratt was solid and worked well with Berry. Stone was another great choice, playing antagonist well as usual. Wilson worked nicely with Stone and delivered nicely in a role he has held before. The remainder of the cast was solid.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were enjoyable despite a somewhat animated aspect. CGI and effects were plentiful and somewhat necessary for the story, but well done and enjoyable throughout. Dialogue was silly, fun, dramatic, and reasonably well done. Sound and soundtrack were good.

Catwoman is a familiar story told with some familiar actors. Fortunately technical work is good, the cast and acting are well done, and the overall interpretation of Catwoman is entertaining. Fans of the comic franchise should enjoy this one at least a little bit.

Catwoman includes some strong violence, gore, disturbing images, and mild foul language but should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2004
Reviewed: 1.8.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Action & Adventure, Comic Book movies, Action Thriller, Sci-Fi Adventure, Sci-Fi Action

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Sunday, January 17, 2016

Movie review: Pay the Ghost

Mike and his wife are devastated when their son, Charlie, disappears during a Halloween celebration and search for him desperately. A year later, they suddenly begin having visions of Charlie, prompting them to begin searching once again.

Nicolas Cage (Mike), Sarah Callies (Kristen), Jack Fulton (Charlie), Stephen McHattie (Blind Man), Veronica Ferres (Hannah), Lyriq Bent (Jordan), Lauren Beatty (Annie), Kalie Hunter (Ghost Annie).

Pay the Ghost begins with a quick trip back in time to lay some groundwork that is unexplained and used as a teaser. The film then shifts to current day, introduces the main characters, and begins to unroll the main plot. The story stalls slightly, building impact around Charlie's disappearance, as the supernatural aspect cranks up and things get rolling. The rest of the film is a nice journey through both horror and insanity with a slightly over the top happy ending for everyone.

Cage delivered as usual with decent emotion and energy. Callies was a nice choice to play against Cage and did well. Fulton was almost a creepy kid, seeming much more mature than his actual age, and almost lethargic with his delivery. McHattie and the remainder of the cast were solid and enjoyable.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds felt realistic and solid throughout the film. Action scenes were pretty good and blended well with CGI which saw some strong use in this film. Effects were creepy and slightly over the top at times, but fit the film. Dialogue was okay though a bit more depth would have been nice. Sound and soundtrack were good.

Pay the Ghost ends up being a mid-level horror flick, but that is about it. The storyline isn't very unique, adding a couple of mild twists to keep things interesting. The horror is good but again, doesn't add much to the genre. Those who enjoy a strong thriller aspect to their horror should enjoy this the most.

With plenty of disturbing images, including Cage in some kind of strange cowboy outfit, some gore, and mild foul language this should be fine for mature teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 1.8.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Horror, Thriller, Supernatural Horror, Supernatural Thriller, Abduction Horror

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Friday, January 15, 2016

Movie review: Stir of Echoes 2: The Homecoming

Returning from the war in Iraq, Ted finds he is plagued by visions of the dead. But the visions seem to be sending him a message that could destroy, or save, his family and life.

Rob Lowe (Ted), Marnie McPhail (Molly), Ben Lewis (Max), Tatiana Maslany (Sammi), Shawn Roberts (Luke), Vik Sahay (Farzan), Colin Williams (Drexel), PJ Lazic (Nunez).

Stir of Echoes 2: The Homecoming begins well enough by showing us a bit about Ted's job while in Iraq. Back home, things get more interesting when Ted begins seeing ghosts. As the film progresses we find the whole Iraq war focus initially was a red herring with the story becoming more about Ted's confusion than anything else. While a solid plot twist keeps things moving and helps us feel better about the film in the end, it also felt a bit misleading. None of which helps the film develop desperately needed energy and engagement.

Lowe was okay in this one but felt a bit detached, which may have been his character and not his skills. McPhail did okay but also felt a bit removed and some of her reactions felt transparent. Lewis was mildly more engaging, while the remainder of the cast felt somewhat dry.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were mild but appropriate. Washed out choppy flashback scenes were decent and got their point across. Action scenes were nicely done with good energy and impact. Dialogue was mediocre and could have done more to add depth and energy. Sound was decent while the soundtrack felt out of place.

While Stir of Echoes 2: The Homecoming may not be a great horror thriller, it is a decent entry level horror flick with a reasonably good plot. Those who enjoy more mild horror should enjoy this one.

With some intense violence, foul language, and disturbing images, save this one for older teens and above.

Released: 2007
Reviewed: 1.6.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Horror, Thriller, Horror Thriller, Supernatural Horror, Supernatural Thriller

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Movie review: Harbinger Down

A group of grad students hopping a ride on the crabbing boat Harbinger get more than they bargained for when they find a distress beacon frozen in the Arctic ice. Hauling aboard a piece of Soviet space wreckage, all hands find they have been exposed to a deadly mutating organism experimented upon by the Soviet's.

Lance Henriksen (Graff), Matt Winston (Stephen), Camille Balsamo (Sadie), Giovonnie Samuels (Ronelle), Winston Francis (Big G), Milla Bjorn (Svet), Reid Collums (Bowman), Michael Estime (Dock).

Harbinger Down begins by jumping straight into the storyline and character introductions. We quickly find ourselves on a crabbing boat in the Arctic, finding a distress beacon frozen in  large chunk of ice, which is then hauled aboard the boat. The plot slows briefly as that sinks in before moving to the horror phase where a deadly organism able to take any shape, that enjoys feeding on humans, is released onto the boat. The rest is a typical horror flick with some BOO moments, a tidbit of drama, and some mild action.

Acting was mediocre with flashes of pretty good. Henriksen was in type here in another mutating alien flick. Balsamo was okay though she felt mildly out of place at times. Francis, Bjorn, Estime, and the rest of the crew did fairly well.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were okay if mild. The bulk of the film takes place on a boat so the number of sets is obviously limited. CGI and effects were pretty good with only a few overly animated or proportionally awkward scenes. Action was decent with some nice scenes. Dialogue was okay but could have had a bit more energy and depth. Sound and soundtrack were okay.

When the last crab leg is cracked Harbinger Down reveals itself as a mid-level horror entry using a well worn storyline with a mild tweak or two. While the movie isn't bad, it isn't great, and struggles to create energy and impact. Sci-Fi horror fans looking for a quick fix may enjoy this one.

With plenty of sci-fi action, violence, disturbing images, and foul language this should be fine for older teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 1.2.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi horror, Monster Movies, Sci-Fi, Deep Sea Horror

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Monday, January 11, 2016

Movie review: Evolution

When a meteorite crashes to Earth in Arizona two college professors investigating the object discover it contains microscopic alien life-forms. But the life-forms don't stay microscopic for long, growing exponentially and becoming hostile, drawing the attention of the government and military.

David Duchovny (Ira), Julianne Moore (Allison), Orlando Jones (Harry), Seann Scott (Wayne), Ted Levine (Gen. Woodman), Ethan Suplee (Deke), Dan Aykroyd (Gov. Lewis), Pat Kilbane (Officer Johnson).

Evolution begins with some interesting action that sets the satirical tone for the film. As initial character introductions take place the plot begins to unroll and we are launched into a ridiculously funny sci-fi plot that provides more than a few laughs while being strangely engaging. The imagination of creatures is interesting and amusing while the humor is well placed and persistent. The film finishes with the requisite Happy Ever After ending and a hint that things might not be over yet.

Acting was pretty good with Duchovny doing a decent job of humor delivery. Moore was mild but good in something of a straight role, and played well with Duchovny. Jones was a nice addition and delivered some of the best humor in the film. Scott was in-type once again and as usual, pulled it off nicely. Suplee was a nice surprise with nice presentation and humor. The remainder of the cast was funny and enjoyable.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were well done with nice use of scenery and good variety. The film depends heavily on CGI which while entertaining, wasn't without some flaws. Perspective was way off in several CGI scenes, and most of the creatures were obviously very animated, but rather than detracting the flaws actually added to the humor. Dialogue was campy, corny, and amusing. Sound and soundtrack were both good.

When Evolution finishes evolving the result is a light-hearted, crotch-humor laden, CGI intensive film with some good laughs and enjoyable acting. Fans of the sci-fi satire genre should enjoy this one. Those looking for something more serious, or with extensive depth, may be disappointed.

With plenty of crotch humor and sci-fi action violence, this one is actually fine for teens and above.

Released: 2001
Reviewed: 1.1.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Alien Sci-Fi, Sci-Fi Satire, Comedy, Spoofs, Sci-Fi

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Sunday, January 10, 2016

Movie review: The Ridiculous 6

Raised by Native Americans, Tommy "White Knife" sets out to rescue his kidnapped outlaw father. Along the way five brothers he never knew he had join the quest in hopes of finally knowing their dad.

Adam Sandler (Tommy), Terry Crews (Chico), Jorge Garcia (Herm), Taylor Lautner (Lil' Pete), Rob Schneider (Ramon), Luke Wilson (Danny), Will Forte (Will Patch), Steve Zahn (Clem), Harvey Keitel (Smiley), Nick Nolte (Frank), Jon Lovitz (Ezekiel), David Spade (Gen. Custer), Danny Trejo (Cicero).

When his outlaw father, Frank, is kidnapped Tommy is told $50K will get him released. Setting out to acquire the money, Tommy also finds five brothers he never knew he had. Joined by his brothers, the gang races to save their dad while learning about each other with some crazy adventures along the way.
This is a campy comedy without a doubt, but the film never develops the strong comedy we expect of a Sandler written, produced, and starred-in film. The lack of energy is even more surprising given the incredible cast.

Acting was okay but Sandler doesn't seem to have realized he is better at cracking the jokes than he is being the straight-man. Crews was funny as always. Garcia did well with an unusual role in which he had no understandable dialogue. Lautner was decent with a prominent role while Schneider, a Sandler film staple and favorite, felt very under used in his role. Wilson, Forte, Zahn, were all fun and funny. Nolte is growing rougher with age but pulled his part off pretty well.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were decent with nice use of natural scenery. Effects in action scenes were obvious and actually funny. Dialogue was campy, silly, corny, and often useless. Sound and soundtrack were okay.

If you are a big Sandler fan you may enjoy this one. If instead you are looking for intelligent humor, look elsewhere. The Ridiculous 6 is about crotch humor, poking fun at history and stereotypes, and Sandler playing with his friends. While there are some laughs, Sandler and his crew have made better films in the past.

With some off-color humor, racial stereotyping, mild sexuality, comedy violence, and mild foul language this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 12.30.15
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Western, Comedy, Comedy Western, Satire

copyright ©2015 Dave Riedel

Friday, January 8, 2016

Movie review: Inherent Vice

A private detective living in 1970's Los Angeles, hippie Doc Sportello is as focused on consuming herb as he is on solving cases. Contacted by his ex-girlfriend, Doc finds himself in the middle of a bizarre case wherein his ex-girlfriend believes her new lover's wife is trying to have him committed to a mental asylum.

Joaquin Phoenix (Doc), Katherine Waterston (Shasta), Josh Brolin (Bigfoot), Eric Roberts (Wolfmann), Serena Thomas (Sloane), Hong Chau (Jade), Joanna Newsom (Sortilege), Jordan Hearn (Denis), Benicio Del Toro (Sauncho), Owen Wilson (Coy), Reese Witherspoon (Penny).

Inherent Vice begins well enough with some mild plot setup and character introductions before rolling into the main plot. That is also the point at which things go sideways and the storyline becomes ridiculously confusing. The remainder of the film feels like a series of disjointed events that infrequently are revealed as related, though it often feels like an accident. There are a lot of plots in this one wrapped around sub-plots which only enhance the chaotic presentation of the story. Pay attention or you will easily be lost here.

Acting was interesting and pretty good. Phoenix did a nice job of playing the stoned out hippie gumshoe Doc Sportello. Waterston was interesting with mild energy but a good fit. Brolin fit nicely and did a good job moving between antagonist and supporting character. Roberts did well with his minor role as did Chau. Del Toro and Wilson both felt in-type and did nicely. Witherspoon was a nice surprise.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds felt good with a fairly realistic 70's feel throughout. Action scenes were mild, and didn't appear to use much CGI, but fit the film nicely. Dialogue was mediocre with some slow spots, quite a bit of mumbling from Phoenix, and some bright spots that helped explain things a bit. Sound and soundtrack were appropriate and enjoyable.

Overall Inherent Vice is something of a jumbled mess that actually tells a story if you are able to dedicate your attention to the film. Sadly, that is more difficult than it sounds. Those who enjoy cerebral films, or disjointed storytelling, should enjoy this one.

With constant drug use, sexual content, graphic nudity, violence, and foul language save this one for the oldest teens and above.

Released: 2014
Reviewed: 12.28.15
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Drama, Crime Drama, Crime Thriller, Crime Comedy, Crime

copyright ©2015 Dave Riedel

Wednesday, January 6, 2016

Movie review: The Da Vinci Code

When the Louvre curator is murdered inside the museum clues lead to hidden codes in Da Vinci paintings and a spiritual mystery protected by a secret society. They also point to Harvard professor Robert Langdon.

Tom Hanks (Dr. Robert Langdon), Audrey Tautou (Agent Sophie Neveu), Ian McKellen (Teabing), Jean Reno (Fache), Paul Bettany (Silas).

A murder in The Louvre has mysterious clues, one of which points to Dr. Langdon. Detective Fache summons Langdon to The Louvre and asks him to solve the mystery while secretly hoping he will implicate himself in the murder. Somehow Agent Neveu shows up to help Langdon and when the two of them realize there is a mystery to be solved, the chase is on. Little do they know the murder victim was a Priory of Sion member and Opus Dei has sent Silas to solve the same mystery, but with a blessing to kill as he wishes. As Langdon and Neveu struggle to stay alive and solve the mystery they realize that what they find could change the world; proof that Christ and Mary Magdalene were married and in fact had a child.

This is a wonderful mixture of several biblical stories, supposed secrets, theories, rumors, and myths. Although there are some holes in the plot, some things that don't seem quite historically accurate, the story is still wonderful. Much like an Indiana Jones episode with a theological focus in a more modern setting. The mysteries and clues keep you interested and the explanation of solutions for audience benefit adds understanding to the plot. Although not action in the traditional sense, the thought provoking nature of the story line keeps things exciting to the end.

Tom Hanks wouldn't have been my first choice as Langdon but, he did the job very nicely. Tautou also did well and played nicely with Hanks. McKellen, Reno and Bettany were all excellent in their respective roles. The chemistry between them all was very good and each generated audience investment in their character.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were nicely done with a deep historical feel and some beautiful artwork. True or not, the film felt as if it was filmed on location, adding greatly to production quality. Action scenes were mild but nicely done. Dialogue was good with only a few difficult accents. Sound and soundtrack were enjoyable.

Overall The Da Vinci Code is a nicely done film though it does fall somewhat short as a representation of the book. The story is intelligent and engaging, technical work is well done, and the cast is enjoyable. Fans of the book or Crime Thrillers should enjoy this one.

This one should be fine for preens and above with no nudity and little foul language. There is a self-mutilation theme that may be questionable for some.

Released: 2006
Reviewed: 11.14.08
Star rating: 5 out of 5
Genre: Thrillers, Crime Thrillers, Mysteries, Book adaptations, Sci-Fi Thriller

copyright ©2015 Dave Riedel

Monday, January 4, 2016

Movie review: The Age of Adaline

At 29 years of age Adaline suffers an almost lethal accident which has also caused her to stop aging. Learning the hard way, she keeps her secret to herself, until she meets a man who sweeps her off her feet.

Blake Lively (Adaline), Michiel Huisman (Ellis), Harrison Ford (William), Ellen Burstyn (Flemming), Kathy Baker (Kathy), Amanda Crew (Kikki), Cate Richardson (Young Flemming).

The Age of Adaline begins by painting us a picture of her life before quickly showing us the auto accident that changes her life by stopping her aging. As Adaline comes to terms with her lack of aging she makes some mistakes that lead her to constantly change her identity and never tell anyone she doesn't age. When Ellis sweeps her off her feet years later Adaline realizes she must finally share her secret to be happy with her life.

Acting was pretty good with Lively putting forth a nice performance. Huisman also did a good job and appeared to work well with Lively. Ford was enjoyable though his role was smaller than we would have hoped. Burstyn was well cast and fit the film nicely. The remainder of the cast was solid.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were good with nice use of scenery and a solid, appropriate feel. Action scenes were mild but nicely done with good detail and fit. Dialogue was enjoyable with decent depth and plot movement. Sound and soundtrack were enjoyable.

I was hoping The Age of Adaline would focus more on the time aspect of Adaline's immortality but instead I got a fairly well done romance film. The story is enjoyable, if not original, and flows pretty well while the immortality aspect adds an unusual element that adds some depth. Obviously aimed at teens, if you enjoy a good romance flick this is a decent choice.

With some mild sexuality and action, this should be fine for preens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 12.23.15
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Romance, Sci-Fi Romance, Drama, Fantasy Romance, Love Stories

copyright ©2015 Dave Riedel

Sunday, January 3, 2016

Movie review: Hellbound Hellraiser II

After the death of her family in the first installment, Kristy is brought to a mental institution and put under the care of Dr. Channard by the police who don’t know what to make of her story. Little does she know that Dr. Channard is obsessed with the puzzle boxes. Soon he has resurrected Julia and brought the Cenobites back once again.

Claire Higgins (Julia), Ashley Laurence (Kristy), Kenneth Cranham (Dr. Channard), Imogen Boorman (Tiffany), Sean Chapman (Frank), Doug Bradley (Pinhead/Captain Spencer), William Hope (Kyle).

Most of the original cast is back in this one with a couple of new additions. Acting as in the first is a bit rough around the edges but it does nothing to diminish the effect of the film. The plot is unusual to say the least but moves along nicely. Getting to see a new Cenobite created, officially the Channard Cenobit or BlenderHead as I call him, was awesome. I also loved the line from Pinhead to Kristy that her suffering would be legendary even in Hell.  There were parts though where it felt like this one had strayed a bit to far into fantasy land. Some of the freakiest parts of these movies is when your everyday settings are corrupted by the Cenobites and that didn’t happen quite so much in this film.
The most enjoyable part for me was finding out where Pinhead came from and Kristy proving to the Cenobites that they were at one time human.

Special effects were average, with plenty of blood, guts, and gore. Sound and camera work were nicely done although the soundtrack was bland.

As with the series, teens and above should be okay watching this.

Released: 1988
Reviewed: 12.21.15
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Horror, Satanic Stories, Cult Horror, Sci-Fi Horror, Fantasy Horror

copyright  ©2015 Dave Riedel

Friday, January 1, 2016

Movie review: Riding the Bullet

Alan’s mother, Jean, has a stroke so he tries to hitchhike his way to the hospital. Along the way he is picked up by a mysterious stranger, George, and things get progressively stranger with hallucinations and psychotic breaks regarding his childhood.

Jonathan Jackson (Alan), David Arquette (George), Cliff Robertson (Farmer), Barbara Hershey (Jean).

Based on a Stephen King book, and directed by the famous Mick Garris, you would expect this to scare you good. Although it was entertaining, the scare factor was nowhere to be found. The plot was interesting and the story was told well, it just wasn’t that scary. There was a lot of drama and a lot of emotional baggage being hauled around by Alan which just squashed the scary bits. Character development was excellent but again, it turned the movie into a drama rather than a horror flick. Overall the story was very enjoyable, made you think in parts, and gave a few chills, it just wasn’t scary.

I did enjoy David Arquette quite a bit, he did great as a freaky dead guy. Hershey was also a bit freaky in her role.

Camera work was a bit rough with some really dark parts. Dialogue was okay but nothing really exciting. The soundtrack was very enjoyable with some good classic rock throughout. I also liked a couple of slight nods to other King stories that were rolled into this one.

Overall a good movie, just not very scary.

There is some nudity, adult concepts such as suicide and drugs, and a somewhat scary grim reaper so save this one for older teens and above.

Released: 2004
Reviewed: 12.21.15
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Horror, Supernatural Horror, Psychological Thrillers, Films based on Books, Psychological Horror

copyright ©2015 Dave Riedel

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