Monday, February 29, 2016

Movie review: Tremors 2: Aftershocks

When the Graboids (underground, giant, carnivorous worms) threaten a Mexican oil refinery they call in the only expert they can find, Earl. Joining him is newcomer Grady who realizes before long that Graboids are more dangerous than he realized. When things start to spiral out of control Burt is called in to bring the big guns and things just get crazier.

Fred Ward (Earl Bassett), Christopher Gartin (Grady Hoover), Helen Shaver (Kate), Michael Gross (Burt Gummer).

I really missed Kevin Bacon and Reba in this one. Although it was a good, funny movie they just brought a lot more quality to the original. Gartin is a good, if somewhat campy, addition and brings some good chuckles. Gross in my opinion was the highlight in this movie, playing an excellent straight-man to the humor, at his expense. Shaver was hit and miss and generally inconsistent throughout the film.

I really enjoy this series. It’s a somewhat unique story and something the whole family can watch and laugh with. A bit silly, campy, with lots of action, explosions, and guns, and even a bit of drama and love thrown, everyone can find something here.

Special effects and stunts are entertaining if not the best ever made, and very appropriate to the film. The creature effects aren’t high budget but they are entertaining. Sets and camera work are fairly well done as is the soundtrack. Dialogue is appropriate for the genre of film.

No nudity, little foul language, and plenty of worm guts make this one okay for preens and above.

Released: 1995
Reviewed: 2.23.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi Horror, Action Comedies, Creature Features, Campy Horror

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Sunday, February 28, 2016

Movie review: Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves

Upon returning home with his companion Azeem, Robin discovers the Sheriff terrorizing the people of the land. Encountering a band of rebels, they join together and Robin decides to fight the Sheriff as an outlaw, try to protect the maiden Marian, and defend his family name.

Kevin Costner (Robin Hood), Morgan Freeman (Azeem), Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio (Marian), Christian Slater (Will), Alan Rickman (Sheriff of Nottingham), Michael McShane (Friar Tuck), Nick Brimble (Little John).

I own this one and have watched it a few times over the years. Obviously the plot is not completely original but the telling of the story in this movie is a lot of fun. Great action, spots of humor, drama, it is all good in this film.

With a good starting cast of Costner, Freeman, and Mastrantonio you expect quality. And not only do they deliver, but the supporting cast does wonderfully as well. My favorite line in the movie is when Rickman says to a couple of wenches: "You, my room, 9:30. You 9:45. And bring a friend!" I roll every time I hear that one.

Camera work, sets, sound, and dialogue are all high quality in this film. Special effects are mostly in the form of stunts and are also well done throughout.

With no nudity, foul language, etc. this one is probably okay for kids 10 and up with some mild violence being the only concern.

Released: 1991
Reviewed: 2.23.16
Star rating: 5 out of 5
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Blockbusters, Action & Adventure

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Friday, February 26, 2016

Movie review: Highway Thru Hell, Seasons 1-2

Up in Canada the Coquihalla Highway is a major north-south route. It is also 524 km of twisting road exposed to some of the most brutal elements. Follow along with a heavy rescue towing company as they work to keep the road open, keep their business running, and their sanity intact.

Dave Pettitt (Narrator), Jamie Davis, Adam Gazzola, Kevin Ritchie, Rob, Bruce, Scott, Ken.

Highway Thru Hell primarily follows the Jamie Davis towing company, creatively named after the owner and main character in this series, as they struggle to keep the Coquihalla Highway in Canada cleared of semi and auto accidents. As a kid I loved big trucks and the heavy rescue vehicles used in this series are even more impressive. But that pales in comparison to the danger and skills these people use to remove wrecks. One of my favorite scenes in the series was the mid-air flip of a semi-tractor. Simply amazing.

It is hard to tell what is acting and what isn't in a reality series but regardless the cast here was quite enjoyable. Jamie was enjoyable and seemed to deliver well while also holding back just a bit. Adam did a great job, and it appears he does a great job with the company in real life taking much of the management role from Jamie. Ken was another bright spot, feeling like a genuinely likeable guy. Scott had high and low moments but did well, as did the rest of the cast including competitors, highway workers, and clients.

Camera work is simply very well done. To be in these dangerous situations and not only get the shot, but frame it well and clearly was impressive. Sets and backgrounds seems to be all natural scenery and was used, and captured, well. Action, being natural and unscripted, felt bland at times and crazy scary at other times. Dialogue was decent, as was sound and soundtrack.

If you are a fan of reality TV, big trucks, emergency vehicles, or highway life you should enjoy this one.

The series is PG-rated so it should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2012
Reviewed: 2.23.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Reality TV, TV shows, Reality TV series

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Movie review: Ex Machina

Programmer Caleb wins a weekend getaway at his boss's Alaskan compound with hopes of being mentored. In reality he was selected to evaluate the human qualities of a humanoid A.I. named Ava whose beauty and intelligence soon have him treating her more like a human than android.

Domhnall Gleeson (Caleb), Oscar Isaac (Nathan), Alicia Vikander (Ava), Sonoyo Mizuno (Kyoko), Corey Johnson (Jay), Claire Selby (Lily), Symara Templeman (Jasmine), Gana Bayarsaikhan (Jade), Elina Alminas (Amber).

Ex Machina begins well enough by launching right into the plot as Caleb wins the weekend getaway with his boss contest. Arriving at the Alaskan compound Caleb finds that in reality he was recruited to evaluate the humanity of a female android A.I. Without giving spoilers, the rest of the film is an interesting journey as Caleb gets to know Ava, eventually engaging with her as human. While this may sound like a bland plot, some wonderful twists and forced paradigm shifts in the film are quite entertaining. The film is completed with a somewhat unexpected finish.

Acting was enjoyable with Vikander doing exceptionally well at somehow delivering both emotion and emotionless performances throughout the film. Gleeson played well against Vikander and also presented nicely. Isaac was interesting and developed good depth with his character and performance. Mizuno was enjoyable and fit nicely, as did the remainder of the supporting cast.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were good even if the film was focused primarily in a single house. From a technical perspective however the real star here was the CGI and costuming. Android animation was very well done with a solid feel which helped elevate the film quite a bit, yet at the same time animation was somewhat understated appearing as incidental rather than the focus of the film. Dialogue was pretty good but a bit more depth and exploration of the characters would have been nice. Sound and soundtrack were both good.

While Ex Machina may look like the typical A.I. versus humanity struggle, there is a bit more to the film. The few twists and turns while slow to appear do add nice depth to the film. Die hard sci-fi fans should enjoy this one while those desiring more intense action may be disappointed.

With some nudity, sexuality, and violence this should be fine for older teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 2.23.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Sci-Fi Dramas, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Drama

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Monday, February 22, 2016

Movie review: Iliza Shlesinger: Freezing Hot

Iliza takes a look at some common things from the perspective of women. Focusing on pinterest, the battle of the sexes, women's clothing, and pumpkin spice.

Iliza Schlesinger

Iliza is cute and funny while taking a look at some common, but mundane aspects of life and how truly confusing they can become when contemplated. Though her material is funny and she delivers well, much of the depth comes from the cute voices, facial expressions, and body language she uses in her routine. It is almost impressive how she can switch quickly and easily between voices. The result is a show full of energy that moves between more topics than we can count and is as funny to watch as it is to hear.

Iliza may or may not have been acting for her show, but our guess is that she was. It would be interesting to see if she could translate her comedy to a film. Her voices, facial expressions, and body language were all enjoyable and added nicely to the show.

Dialogue was fun with Iliza doing a nice job of giving a complete picture behind a scene without beating a topic into the ground or leaving us guessing.

With a nice variety of topics, visuals that are as enjoyable as the audio, and some wonderful belly-laughs, Schlesinger delivers a nice show that a wide variety of people should enjoy.

With foul language, sexuality, and adult concepts this should be fine for older teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 2.15.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Comedy, stand-up comedy

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Sunday, February 21, 2016

Movie review: Hannibal Buress: Comedy Camisado

Comedian Hannibal Buress contemplates the checking of identification, steroids, zipper etiquette and Bill Cosby in this hour long stand-up show.

Hannibal takes an interesting look at a variety of topics, then adds a truck load of sarcasm. His perspective on some topics may be unusual but the logic usually fits and definitely supports his comedy routine. While he does elicit some laughs, he doesn't quite land some of his jokes and at times it appears he thinks he is funnier than the audience. A bit more energy from Buress, or a better audience, might make this one more interesting.

Stand-up comedy does require acting, but it is hard to tell what is actually acting by the performer. Buress is okay and does deliver some emotion but feels inconsistent, probably because he is trying to support the comedy with emotion.

Camera work and background was simple but okay. Dialogue was decent with some interesting bits. Sound was solid.

While Buress does deliver some laughs, there aren't a lot of belly laughs in this one and definitely some slow moments. Energy feels inconsistent and from what we have heard, Buress usually does better than what is seen here. Those who like dry or low energy stand-up comedy should enjoy this one. Those wanting serious laughter may want to find something better.

With plenty of foul language and adult topics, this should be fine for older teens and above.

Released: 2016
Reviewed: 2.15.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Comedies, Stand-up Comedy

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Friday, February 19, 2016

Movie review: Better Call Saul

Before Saul was Saul there was Jimmy McGill. Follow along in this "Breaking Bad" prequel as grifter Jimmy transforms into Saul Goodman, eventually opening a strip-mall law office in Albuquerque and aiding a notorious drug kingpin.

Bob Odenkirk (Jimmy), Jonathan Banks (Mike), Michael McKean (Chuck), Michael Mando (Nacho), Rhea Seehorn (Kim), Patrick Fabian (Howard).

Better Call Saul begins well enough with Jimmy practicing law, or trying anyway, along with some time movements that aren't explained well and appear to show him hiding in plain sight. As the series evolves the time jumps continue, and remain somewhat unexplained, but there is some obvious effort put into coherence which is nice. With linked episodes the series is apparently going to build a story with some depth but in the first season really doesn't accomplish much. Instead we have a jumble of stories that reflect Jimmy's transformation into Saul, but without the depth and energy of the original series on which the show is based.

Acting was surprisingly good with Odenkirk actually doing a good job in the lead role. Banks was a great addition to the series, and nice nod to "Breaking Bad", and brings good depth to the storyline. McKean was solid and worked well with Odenkirk, as did Mando and Seehorn. Overall, an enjoyable cast.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were enjoyable if a bit bland but they fit the series themes well. Action scenes were good with a realistic feel while supporting rather than leading the series. Dialogue was okay but a bit of depth and a dose of logic at times would be nice. Sound and soundtrack were good.

Overall Better Call Saul is enjoyable, and even entertaining. But it is also a bit slow moving, bland at times, and definitely lacking the energy that was found in Breaking Bad. While Saul may have been a fan favorite character in that series, it is yet to be seen if he can carry his own series.

With plenty of foul language, violence, sexuality, nudity, drug use, and who knows what else, this should be fine for older teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 2.15.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Crime, Drama, Crime Drama, TV Shows, TV Comedy

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Movie review: Transporter: The Series

Ex special operative Frank Martin has left the service and is now working on the other side of the law as a transporter. With only three rules, Frank is known for getting the job done well and on time, regardless of circumstances.

Chris Vance (Frank), Francois Berleand (Inspector Tarconi), Charly Hubner (Dieter), Violante Placido (Caterina), Andrea Osvart (Carla), Mark Rendall (Jules), Delphine Chaneac (Juliette).

Transporter: The Series begins well enough with some good car chases and focus, violence and action, bits of comedy, and lovely ladies. Though largely unrelated, the episodes held interest well and were fairly entertaining. Then comes season 2. Frank's mechanic, friend, and much of the comedy relief in the series, Dieter, is killed off. Then Carla, his technical assistant, is removed along with much of the sexuality and subtext of the series. This also marks the decrease, almost elimination, of car chases and an apparent refocus of the series on espionage and drama. Sadly, we were happy to see the end of season 2 as the series wasn't at all what it was originally, nor as it was apparently intended.

Acting was actually quite enjoyable for much of the first two seasons. Vance did a nice job, appearing almost lethargic until it was time for action, where he really shined well. Berleand was enjoyable despite his small role. Osvart was very enjoyable in the first season, bringing good emotional elements to the series. She was replace by Placido in the second season, who also did fairly well. Hubner was a lot of fun and missed in season 2.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were good in the series, but obviously better in season 1. Action scenes were nicely done with some good car chases and fights in season 1, much less in season 2. Dialogue was decent with nice depth. Sound and soundtrack were mild but good.

The reality of Transporter: The Series is that season 1 was good, season 2 not so much. If you can walk away from a series, enjoy car chases and intense fighting, and like a dose of mystery, you should enjoy this one.

With plenty of violence, some blood, foul language, drug use, sexuality, and graphic nudity, save this one for adults and above.

Released: 2014
Reviewed: 2.9.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Crime thriller, Crime TV shows, Crime Action & Adventure, Crime Action, TV series

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Monday, February 15, 2016

Movie review: The Overnight

New to Los Angeles, Alex, Emily, and their son, RJ, meet another family at the park and arrange a get together for the kids to play and parents to get acquainted. Instead, the evening gets strange once the kids are put to bed.

Adam Scott (Alex), Taylor Schilling (Emily), Jason Schwartzman (Kurt), Judith Godreche (Charlotte), Max Moritt (Max), R.J. Hermes (RJ).

The Overnight feels a bit quirky at first as Alex and Emily meet Kurt at the park. Once the playdate is underway things quickly get more interesting with Kurt and Charlotte being over-the-top in just about every way. Most obviously, they seem to be seriously sex-crazed. As the story develops a few twists are thrown in that lead us to moral and ethical revelations and keep the story quite entertaining. The film finally concludes with a surprisingly realistic finish, and maybe a chuckle or two.

Acting was very good with Scott delivering good emotion throughout. Schilling also did well and played nicely with everyone else in the film. Schwartzman was enjoyable and did nicely with his quirky, emotional role. Godreche was solid if somewhat less engaging than the others. The remainder of the cast was solid.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were good with the main focus of the film, the house, very nicely done. Action scenes were mild but enjoyable. Dialogue was very good with nice depth that helped bring out the emotions in the movie. Sound and soundtrack were good.

In the morning The Overnight turns out to be both more and less enjoyable than expected. The film has a strange way of holding audience attention despite some slow spots and more than a couple that may make you cringe. While there is some edgy content here, much of the film isn't as it seems, which actually makes it even more enjoyable. Dark comedy fans should enjoy this one.

With strong graphic sexuality, plenty of nudity, foul language, adult situations, and drug use save this one for adults and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 2.4.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Comedy, Dark Comedy, Late Night Comedy, Independent Comedy, Raunchy Comedy

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Sunday, February 14, 2016

Movie review: The Cobbler

Max is a simple cobbler, fixing shoes for the masses. When he stumbles upon an antique that allows him to assume the identity of the person whose shoes he is wearing Max finds life can be much more interesting.

Adam Sandler (Max), Steve Buscemi (Jimmy), Melonie Diaz (Carmen), Lynn Cohen (Sarah), Method Man (Leon), Fritz Weaver (Mr. Solomon), Dustin Hoffman (Abraham), Ellen Barkin (Elaine).

The Cobbler is a simple but interesting premise; wearing others shoes Max can assume their identity. Those around him see the owner, not Max. While the plot is interesting and the story moves along pretty well, the comedy is a bit light and infrequent. Thankfully the story weaves in a few parallel plot lines which do well at keeping things interesting, and light.

Acting was pretty good with Sandler delivering his usual sarcasm laden dialogue and unconvincing innocence. Buscemi was enjoyable as always but with a smaller role and much less humor. Diaz was enjoyable, as was Method Man and Weaver. Hoffman was a nice addition and Barkin rocked it as an antagonist.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were good and fit the film while also being somewhat bland and boring. Action scenes were mild but fun. Dialogue was good, despite the lack of expected humor, with nice depth. Sound and soundtrack were good.

At the end of the day The Cobbler may fail a bit as a comedy, but it does fairly well as a drama. Sandler and friends are proving they can do more than comedy but, they are sure better at the comedy. Sandler fans may enjoy this one, along with those who enjoy a milder drama.

With some crotch humor, sexuality, and mild violence this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2014
Reviewed: 2.4.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Comedies, Dramas, Independent Dramas

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Friday, February 12, 2016

Movie review: Last Shift

A rookie police officer is assigned to guard an empty police station until hazardous materials and evidence are removed so it can be closed. Alone in the station at night, it doesn't take long for Officer Loren to understand why the station is being abandoned.

Juliana Harkavy (Officer Loren), Joshua Mikel (Paymon), J. LaRose (Patrick Black), Natalie Victoria (Marigold), Sarah Sculco (Kitty Paymon), Kathryn Kilger (Dorthea Paymon), Mary Poiley (Birdie).

Last Shift begins quietly enough when Loren learns of her assignment guarding the empty police station. With the first six minutes of the film out of the way, character introductions completed, and the basic plot ready before us, we can now enjoy the next 80 minutes of insanity. The station, or Loren's brain itself, comes up with some nice creepy scenes, some good BOO moments, and a bit of horror. Appearing to be a low-budget film, Last Shift moves along at a decent pace and does a reasonable job with the horror.

Acting was a little bland but not awful. Harkavy felt a bit rough at times but overall did a decent job. Mikel and the remainder of the cast, despite minimal dialogue and interaction, seemed to do pretty well.

Camera work was actually pretty good with some well focused and interesting scenes. Sets and backgrounds were fairly boring which actually added to the psychological aspect of the film. CGI and action scenes were nicely done with good gore and a realistic feel. Dialogue was somewhat sparse and could have used an energy boost. Sound and soundtrack were good.

Last Shift is a decent horror flick that takes a fairly common theme and confuses the line between the supernatural and insanity fairly well. Though not a high-energy flick, the story moves along fairly well and does a reasonable job with the horror. Genre fans may enjoy this one while those who enjoy high production values or intense action may be disappointed.

With disturbing adult situations and images, blood and gore, foul language, and graphic violence save this for older teens and above.

Released: 2014
Reviewed: 2.3.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Horror, Psychological Horror, Supernatural Horror, Thrillers, Supernatural Thrillers

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Movie review: Manhattan Romance

While working on a documentary about modern relationships in Manhattan, Danny struggles to navigate his own relationships. A somewhat traditional guy, he works to have a relationship with Theresa; a hippy dancer who engages in open relationships, and acknowledge being in love with his best friend Carla, a lesbian.

Tom O'Brien (Danny), Katherine Waterston (Carla), Caitlin FitzGerald (Theresa), Zach Grenier (Trevor), Louis Cancelmi (Jarrod), Gaby Hoffmann (Emmy), Paul O'Brien (Uncle Bob), Ellen McLaughlin (Aunt Jules).

Manhattan Romance is quite simply a mess, both as a film and from the perspective of Danny, the main character (and Director of the film). The story sounds like Danny is going to explore alternative relationships but instead he seems to dismiss the possibilities and personal growth potential in favor of social conditioning and prejudice. To complicate matters further, he engages with women who are completely contradictory to his relationship paradigm to an extent they are realistically unattainable. The result is an unrealistic representation of alternative relationship styles but a clear picture of why Danny has relationship troubles.

Acting, despite film content, was decent. O'Brien could use some work but he was nicely supported by Waterston and FitzGerald who both delivered nicely and fit their roles well. Hoffmann was also enjoyable and fit her role, and the film, well. The remainder of the cast felt a bit green at times, but did fairly well.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds felt a bit low-budget but fit the film pretty well. Some darker scenes were difficult but most of the video was pretty good. Dialogue was okay but could have done more, a lot more. A lot of things felt unexplained and the lack of communication between characters at times was beyond disappointing. Sound and soundtrack could have used some work with background music running over dialogue in a couple of scenes.

It was disappointing Manhattan Romance didn't take a deeper look at alternative relationships as implied by the summary, nor did it add anything to the genre, and the comedy aspect was almost entirely missing. Instead this seems to be a story about an average guy, with common relationship expectations, who goes looking in the alternative lifestyle community for a relationship and ends up frustrated.

With some sexuality, nudity, and foul language save this for the oldest teens and above.

Released: 2014
Reviewed: 1.25.16
Star rating: 1 out of 5
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Romantic Comedy, Independent Films

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Tuesday, February 9, 2016

Movie review: San Andreas

The big one is here! The San Andreas fault has just activated and the West Coast is shaking from San Francisco to LA. Meanwhile, rescue pilot Ray and his estranged wife Emma must rescue their daughter Blake from the middle of San Francisco and a scientist races to notify the entire West Coast.

Dwayne Johnson (Raymond), Carla Gugino (Emma), Alexandra Daddario (Blake), Paul Giamatti (Dr. Hayes), Ioan Gruffudd (Daniel), Hugo Johnstone-Burt (Ben), Art Parkinson (Ollie), Will Yun Lee (Dr. Kim), Archie Panjabi (Serena).

Thankfully San Andreas adds a couple of parallel storylines or this would be a one-dimensional action flick at best. We have Ray and his estranged wife Emma racing from LA to San Francisco to save their daughter Blake from the quakes and the story quite literally throws everything disaster related it can think of at them. Blake meanwhile develops and instant romantic relationship with Ben. At the same time Dr. Hayes, who just realized he can predict earthquakes, is trying to warn the West Coast that things are only getting started. All of that keeps the film interesting, but not great.

Acting was, well, when Johnson is the lead actor that should give you a clue. Surprisingly he did well, toning it down a bit and feeling almost realistic. Gugino was enjoyable, and fun to watch. Daddario added greatly to the film with a decent performance punctuated with running scenes once in a while. Giamatti was in-type and delivered as usual, while Johnstone-Burt and Parkinson did pretty well.

Camera work, sets, backgrounds, and CGI were what this one was all about. Gigantic CGI scenes dominated with tsunami action, bucking earth, fire, explosions and just about anything else you would want for a natural disaster of this size. Dialogue was okay but did little more than keep the plot moving. Sound and soundtrack were okay.

San Andreas has been done, re-done, and in this case over-done. Aside from the plot, acting was reasonable and technical work was well done. Those who enjoy a somewhat mindless action & adventure film should enjoy this one.

With some tense action scenes and peril, this should be fine for preens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 1.23.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Action & Adventure, Action Drama, Action Thriller, Natural Disasters

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Monday, February 8, 2016

Movie review: SlingShot

SlingShot is a documentary focused on Segway creator Dean Kamen as he works to solve the world's water crisis. Journey along with Kamen through creation of a water purification system, testing, and his plans to solve the current and future water shortage.

Dean Kamen, Director: Paul Lazarus

Though some may recognize Kamen as the Segway creator, many may not know he is an inventor whose focus for many years has been on solving the world's water shortage. This documentary begins with some mild backstory on Kamen before moving to his current project. When human illness comes to his attention Kamen realizes that clean water is a huge factor in both causing and eradicating illness. This in turn leads him to working on a global clean water solution. Follow the evolution in this strongly engaging documentary.

Kamen presents on film surprisingly well for an inventor. Though after watching this film, he has obviously had to engage in marketing throughout his life and in fact, this film may simply be marketing that is needed for his new water purification system which he intends to give the world for free.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were simple and natural throughout. Dialogue was good, presenting a lot of information nicely with some tidbits of humor here and there. Sound and soundtrack were well done.

Reading between the lines this film seems to be Kamen trying to spread the word about his new water purification system and how it could improve conditions around the world. This would seem like shameless advertising by someone with money except that Kamen doesn't seem interested in making money from this venture. Those with an interest in new technology or humanitarianism should enjoy this one.

Nothing here to limit audience age.

Released: 2014
Reviewed: 1.20.16
Star rating: 5 out of 5
Genre: Documentary, Biography, News

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Sunday, February 7, 2016

Movie review: Circle

Fifty strangers awaken in a strange room and quickly realize they are being executed one by one. Struggling to understand what is happening and survive they finally realize there is only one thing they can do; choose one person to survive.

Julie Benz (Wife), Mercy Malick (Lesbian), Carter Jenkins (College guy), Molly Jackson (Little girl), Michael Nardelli (Eric), Lisa Pelikan (Cancer woman), Cesar Garcia (Tattooed man), Kevin Sheridan (Man 1), Lawrence Kao (Asian kid), Kaiwi Lyman (Bearded man).

Circle begins with no explanation as 50 strangers awaken in a room. As they begin to be killed off one by one, there is still no explanation. Struggling to understand their situation and survive the group begins theorizing and testing their situation. The result is amazing as the group mentality shifts from defensiveness to self-preservation to sacrifice and even strategy. Along the way we learn more about the strangers which does engage the audience with the film however their personal history is much less entertaining than their reaction to the situation. The film finally wraps up with an ending that, although slightly dismissive of the previous 80 minutes, adds an additional level to the film by creating even more questions.

Acting was pretty good by just about everyone, with nice deflection and misdirection by many. Jenkins did nicely in an antagonistic role, as did many others including those who moved between protagonist and antagonist. The quick shifts between characters makes it difficult to single anyone out so suffice to say, acting was generally enjoyable.

Camera work was good with nice framing of the group, which didn't move at all, and helped convey the size of the group and their situation. Sets and backgrounds were fairly simplistic with a static set and a lot of darkness hiding the background. That said, they fit the film perfectly. Dialogue was the meat of this film and it was managed, and delivered, very well. Sound and soundtrack were clean and simple.

The Circle is a film that is unusual enough it is difficult to describe. Those who can embrace the possibility of the situation while engaging in the intellectual thought it stimulates should enjoy this one. Those who are unable to accept the situation will likely feel the film is pointless and not worth watching. Which one will you be?

With some foul language, this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 1.20.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi, Sci-Fi Horror, Independent Drama

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Saturday, February 6, 2016

Movie review: World of Tomorrow

Answering a video phone, a little girl is connected with her own clone calling from 227 years into the future. The clone then leads her on a strange tour of her future, and the clone's past, in this short animation.

Winona Mae (Emily Prime), Julia Pott (Emily), Sara Cushman (Simon voice)

World of Tomorrow is a digital creation from Don Hertzfeldt that in 16 minutes highlights the contrast between innocence and knowledge using an existential theme. Young Emily answers a video phone and is connected to her own clone calling from 227 years in the future. The clone, using time-travel, brings Emily into a voyage of her memories and the future. Along the way we enjoy a heavy dose of dark, sarcastic humor and a bleak look at how the future could potentially unfold.

I can't really speak to acting as there wasn't any actual acting in World of Tomorrow. In case you missed it, this is a digital animation film. Dialogue however was enjoyable and entertaining.

Digital animation was good however because the film was created with a simplistic theme it is easily mistaken as rudimentary or even childish. It helps to remember the animation is only a small part of the story with dialogue being the main focus. Sound and soundtrack were both clear, simple, and nicely done.

World of Tomorrow isn't so much a movie as it is a dark comedy with deeper undertones. Though not exactly entertaining in the sense of a traditional film, it is thought provoking and elicits a few nervous chuckles along the way.

Those looking for something unusual, artistic, or who enjoy dark sarcasm should enjoy this 16 minutes of strange animation.

Nothing here to limit audience age.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 1.20.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Animation, Short, Comedy, Dark Comedy, Time Travel

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Friday, February 5, 2016

Movie review: The Loft

Five married men band together to share a penthouse loft in the city where they can enjoy their hidden affairs and fantasies. But when the body of a dead woman is found in the loft they realize; the five of them have the only keys so one of them must be involved.

Karl Urban (Vincent), James Marsden (Chris), Wentworth Miller (Luke), Eric Stonestreet (Marty), Matthias Schoenaerts (Philip), Isabel Lucas (Sarah), Rachael Taylor (Anne), Rhona Mitra (Allison), Valerie Cruz (Barbara).

The Loft is an interesting premise and the film begins well, despite making fun of alternative lifestyles at about the 30 minute mark. About 45 minutes in the main plot finally shows up and things look like they will get more interesting. That doesn't happen and instead the film stalls, taking an excessive amount of time between plot points. The rest of the story is a slow-motion train wreck as the five guys reveal secrets that almost explain how a murdered woman showed up in their loft. Some last moment abnormal psychology finishes off the story with a sigh of relief.

Acting wasn't bad, but it didn't seem the actors were well directed nor were they able to overcome the slow pace. Urban and Marsden both did fairly well as usual. Miller was enjoyable as always and fit his role well. The remainder of the cast was solid with decent delivery throughout.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds fit the film well with a nice, solid feel. Action scenes were mild but fit the film nicely. Dialogue was okay but could have move the story along at a better pace. Sound and soundtrack were good.

The Loft is an interesting film that could have used some lofty goals. The story is slow, acting somewhat tepid, and the plot depth is somewhat ignored. Those who enjoy a mild crime thriller should enjoy this one quite a bit. For those wanting strong engagement however, this is not the film for you.

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

Released: 2014
Reviewed: 1.19.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Crime Thriller, Crime Drama, Crime Romance, Mysteries, Psychological Thrillers

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Wednesday, February 3, 2016

Movie review: The Gunman

Terrier is in the Congo as part of a mercenary assassination team tasked with eliminating the minister of mines. Completing the job forces Terrier into hiding, only to return to the Congo years later where one of his old team members makes him the target this time.

Sean Penn (Terrier), Jasmine Trinca (Annie), Javier Bardem (Felix), Ray Winstone (Stanley), Mark Rylance (Cox), Idris Elba (Barnes), Peter Franzen (Reiniger), Billy Billingham (Reed), Daniel Adegboyega (Bryson).

The Gunman begins well enough with showing us who Terrier is, and explaining the movie title just a bit. Once Terrier kills the minister of mining he must go into hiding to avoid retribution. Years later he returns to the Congo working to provide humanitarian aid but before long finds he is targeted, possibly by a member of his old team. Throw in a love triangle, some PTSD, and the movie morphs into something of a crime action film.

Acting was less than exciting in this one. Try as he might, Penn just can't seem to convey realistic feeling emotion, but they did do a decent job of making him into an action hero. Trinca was decent and seemed to work well with both Penn and Bardem. Bardem was well cast, playing the antagonist nicely. Winstone, Elba, and the remainder of the cast did okay.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were enjoyable with a fairly realistic feel. Camera work was solid, picture clarity was nice as was coloring. Action scenes were well done with pretty good timing and a realistic feel. Dialogue was okay but could have enjoyed more depth and emotion. Sound and soundtrack were okay.

The Gunman isn't a bad film, but it isn't worth reloading into the DVD player either. The story didn't quite develop the expected audience engagement, the plot got a bit thin after the first 20 minutes, and Penn didn't quite pull off his role. If you enjoy milder crime drama, or crime action, you may like this one.

With plenty of violence, foul language, and some sexuality, this should be fine for older teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 1.19.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Crime, Crime Drama, Crime Action, Action & Adventure, Action Thriller

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Monday, February 1, 2016

Movie review: The Best Offer

Virgil is a master auctioneer listing among his quirks a drive for perfection. When hired by an extremely reclusive heiress, whose face he has never seen, to auction her collectibles Virgil finds himself becoming obsessed and eventually, in love.

Geoffrey Rush (Virgil), Jim Sturgess (Robert), Sylvia Hoeks (Claire), Donald Sutherland (Billy), Philip Jackson (Fred), Dermot Crowley (Lambert), Kiruna Stamell (Girl in Bar), Liya Kebede (Sarah).

The Best Offer sounds a bit dry but is anything but in reality. The film begins slowly, smoothly gliding into a plot that is well detailed and deceivingly elusive. As the story evolves we find depth with the romance between Claire and Virgil. We also find intrigue with the mechanical parts Virgil has found, and which Robert is working to reassemble into some strange ancient robot. The story finally winds down with some excellent twists and turns.

Acting from Rush was wonderful. He did an amazing job taking a character we didn't like at the start of the film, making us like him, and eventually have sympathy for in the end. Hoeks played well against Rush, and did nicely with her part on her own as well. Sturgess was enjoyable and did nicely, as did Sutherland in a somewhat minor role. The remainder of the cast was solid and entertaining.

Camera work was good and made good use of the wonderful sets and backgrounds giving the film a very realistic feel. Action scenes were few and mild but fit the film perfectly. Dialogue had nice depth and was enjoyable throughout. Sound and soundtrack were also well done.

The Best Offer is quite simply a very good film well worth a watch. Technical work, acting, and production quality is very good and at just over two hours run-time, you may still want more! Crime, mystery, or dark romance fans should enjoy this one quite a bit so put it toward the top of your Must See list.

With nudity, sexuality, and some violence save this one for the oldest teens and above.

Released: 2013
Reviewed: 1.15.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Dark Romance, Romantic Drama, International Drama

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Mine mine mine!!!!

Blog disclaimer and copyright information. . .

-I hope to make this blog revenue generating in the future and as such any posts found here may be paid posts. If you want to pay me to post for you, let me know!
-Content may change over time resulting in inaccuracies. I also make mistakes, some will be here.
-I have no control over what is at the other end of any links you may find here.
-Film pictures, dvd covers, film banners or whatever you like to call them are copied here from widely available public locations. I did not create them nor do I own them.
-Any files, programs or downloadables are provided only for convenience and fun. I in no way warrant, represent, or otherwise imply they won’t cause you problems. Use at your own risk! If your computer blows up I don’t want to even hear about it.
-Reviews posted here are my opinion and meant as informational for prospective viewers and are not meant to malign, defame, or otherwise harm anyone or anything. They also are not meant as advice or counsel , not necessarily factual or absolute, and the author will not be held responsible for the results of their use.
-Comments are NOT the opinion of this author, nor is he responsible or liable for the comments or their results. I will try to moderate them in a reasonable (to me) manner.
-Translation of any portion of this blog may result in other than desirable language for which the author is not responsible. Furthermore, I’m not an English major so there will be bad grammar and punctuation found here. There may also be language that is intentionally objectionable to support my opinions. Tough.
-Copyright: All reviews and opinions expressed here by the author are owned by the author. Please enjoy reposting and/or linking, I ask only that you give proper credit and inform me you have used my content for your own pleasure and devious purposes.
-Legal limit on damages: .02 cents, U.S. (Yes, I will give you my 2 cents worth if you abuse me in court).