Movie reviews: Black Road

In a future, splintered U.S. a cybernetically enhanced mercenary tries to protect a woman from her angry ex-husband.

Sam Daly (Dylan), Simon Templeman (Sterling), Leilani Sarelle (Lisa), Michelle Lombardo (Sarah), Kenajuan Bentley (Eddie), Danforth Comins (Bruce), Dan Donohue (Dr. Paul), Mike Estes (Mohawk).

Black Road begins with some mild character introduction before moving to the plot. While things aren't explained well, they also are not very complicated and the plot in this one turns out to be pretty simple. Dylan is a cybernetically enhanced mercenary who comes to the rescue of Lisa when she is attacked. When she explains her ex-husband is violent, and has hidden a large amount of gold on his property, they strike a deal. The rest of the film is a mess of action scenes, sexuality, and poor plot points winding down to a flat ending.

Acting was somewhat disappointing with Daly feeling detached and frequently unemotional. Templeman was interesting only so much as his character was about the most unusual in the film. Sarelle did okay but appeared to rely on her physical assets rather than contributing with acting skills or emotion. The remainder of the supporting cast was mild at best.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were also a mix. Some scenes were well filmed with nice sets and backgrounds while others were poorly lit, out of focus, and framing was poor. CGI effects were mild but fit well. Dialogue was bland, often felt forced, and didn't add much to the film. Sound and soundtrack were okay.

Overall Black Road was somewhat disappointing. The sci-fi aspect was thin and unused, acting was bland and lacked depth, as did dialogue and action scenes. As background noise this one works okay but those looking for a true sci-fi action thriller will likely be disappointed.

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

Released: 2016
Reviewed: 10.21.16
Star rating: 1 out of 5
Genre: Action Sci-Fi, Sci-Fi Thriller, Psychological Thriller, Independent Thrillers, Thrillers

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: The Finest Hours

Based on a true story, The Finest Hours recounts one of the most historic Coast Guard rescue operations ever seen. When a winter storm hits the East Coast in 1952, four Coast Guard members set out in a small lifeboat to rescue more than 30 sailors stranded on their oil tanker, which has been ripped in half.

Chris Pine (Bernie), Casey Affleck (Ray), Ben Foster (Richard), Eric Bana (Daniel), Holliday Grainger (Miriam), John Ortiz (Wallace), Kyle Gallner (Andy), John Magaro (Ervin), Graham McTavish (Frank).

The Finest Hours begins with some character introductions and backstory as Bernie and Miriam first meet. The story transitions smoothly as a large winter storm bears down on the East Coast, ripping apart a tanker ship just off the coast of Cape Cod. Bernie and three other Coast Guard members set out in a small boat, against all odds, to try and save the tanker crew.
The real story here, represented in the film, is truly incredible. It is amazing the men on the tanker were able to shape their destiny at all, let alone buy enough time to be saved. Adding in the story of the Coast Guard crew sent on the rescue mission only adds to the depth and intensity of the film.

Acting was good with Pine doing a nice job as a humble hero. Affleck was good with nice delivery, as was Foster, Bana, and the remainder of the cast. Grainger was a solid choice to play against Pine and put forth a very nice performance.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were wonderfully done with a solid, realistic feel. CGI and effects, which obviously played a big part in this one, felt realistic and added greatly to the film. Dialogue had good depth and moved the story along nicely. Sound and soundtrack were good.

Overall The Finest Hours is a solid Action Thriller with good production quality, acting, and an incredible storyline. Action Thriller and Action Drama fans should enjoy this one.

While the film does have some profanity, it should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2016
Reviewed: 10.21.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Action, Drama, History, Action Thriller, Action Drama

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: Bound

When real estate broker Michelle meets Ryan she senses the chemistry immediately. What comes next however is a journey into BDSM that she never expected.

Charisma Carpenter (Michelle), Bryce Draper (Ryan), Morgan Obenreder (Dara), Michael Monks (Preston), Daniel Baldwin (Walter), Andy Tran (Lee), Mark Wilson (George), Hayley McLaughlin (Alana), Noel Arthur (Jesse).

Michelle is a real estate broker focused on saving the family business with little time to find a satisfying relationship. Meeting Ryan by chance, the sparks are obvious. As is his interest in BDSM which becomes apparent almost immediately. Ryan exposes Michelle to more and more but to his surprise it seems Michelle may actually be interested in a role reversal. While this is one is obviously riding the Fifty Shades of Grey wave it lacks the emotional detail but incorporates a couple of nice twists.

Acting was okay in this one but could have been better. While Carpenter is a joy to see in this setting, her acting feels a bit stiff and unemotional at times. Draper was decent but often felt like he was little more than eye candy. Obenreder did okay in a smaller role, while Monks did a nice job of being a jerk. Baldwin was mediocre while the remainder of the cast did reasonably well.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were good with a classy, solid feel. Action, or romantic scenes in this case, were enjoyable. Dialogue was a bit thin, leaving focus on the visual with an obvious lack of emotional detail. Sound and soundtrack were decent.

Overall Bound feels a bit confused apparently trying to send an emotional message that isn't clear, with a secondary focus on the physical aspect which is also not explored well. Those who enjoy spicy after-dark movies may enjoy this one while those looking for depth will be disappointed.

With plenty of nudity, some graphic sexuality, alternative sexuality, foul language, and adult situations save this one for adults and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 10.21.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Drama, Thriller, Steamy, Romance

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: Orbit: Earth's Extraordinary Journey

Following the Earth's one-year journey around the sun, hosts Kate Humble and Dr. Helen Czerski take a look at the impact the journey has on our planet's weather.

Hosts: Kate Humble, Dr. Helen Czerski

Orbit: Earth's Extraordinary Journey takes a look at how the Earth's annual journey around the sun impacts weather on our planet. Traveling the world, Kate and Helen examine significant events that take place throughout the year and what exactly influences those events. Using easy to understand language and details this series does an incredible job of explaining natural events. Explanation of the Earth's orbit and changing orientation was particularly enjoyable.

Acting was enjoyable from both Humble and Czerski. Both have an obvious enthusiasm and interest in nature, and science in general.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds focus primarily on natural locations and scenery was used well and added nicely to the depth of the series. CGI and animation was nicely done and simply explained some challenging concepts. Dialogue was solid with nice depth and detail. Sound is enjoyable, as is the soundtrack.

Overall Orbit: Earth's Extraordinary Journey is a very nicely done BBC documentary that does a great job of explaining our solar system and how our journey around the sun impacts our planet's weather. Anyone with an interest in learning more about our weather patterns or solar journey should enjoy this one.

Nothing here to limit audience age.

Released: 2012
Reviewed: 10.21.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Documentary, BBC documentary

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: The Last Witch Hunter

A powerful coven resurrects their Queen who quickly sets in motion a plan to unleash a plague upon New York City, and eventually the world, ending humanity. An immortal witch hunter, priest, and good young witch are the only things that stand in their way.

Vin Diesel (Kaulder), Rose Leslie (Chloe), Elijah Wood (Dolan 37th), Olafur Olafsson (Belial), Rena Owen (Glaeser), Julie Engelbrecht (Queen), Michael Caine (Dolan 36th), Joseph Gilgun (Ellic), Isaach De Bankole (Schlesinger).

The Last Witch Hunter begins with some good history and character introductions before moving to present day, which serves to help the film connect with the audience. Shifting to the plot, while it is obvious Kaulder is hunting witches some of the important details, and even plot movements, are not explained well. The result is a film that devolves, losing coherence and interest along the way, until it finally winds down with a fairly typical Happy Ever After ending.

Acting was a bit disappointing here. While Diesel may make a decent action hero to look at, his acting chops don't seem to be improving much. Wood was mildly entertaining, as was Olafsson. Leslie was enjoyable, as was Caine who delivered nicely as always. The remainder of the supporting cast was okay.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were good and blended heavily with digital effects that only felt over the top a few times. CGI added good depth to this film but also landed it squarely in the fantasy realm. Dialogue was lacking, particularly when it came to plot points and movement. Sound and soundtrack were okay.

Overall this is an entry level action fantasy aimed at younger audiences which will likely enjoy it the most. Adults and strong sci-fi fans may feel this one lacks depth, quality, and consistency.

With violence, some gore, adult situations, and brief mild sexuality, this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 10.15.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Sci-Fi Action, Sci-Fi Fantasy, Action Sci-Fi Fantasy, Supernatural Sci-Fi, Action Adventure

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie Review: The Core

Due to experiments by Zimsky, the core of the Earth has stopped spinning. To save the planet, the plan is to burrow into the center of the earth in a prototype vehicle and detonate nuclear devices to restart rotation. A group of researchers, Josh, Zimsky, Serge are put together to travel in the vehicle built by Braz and piloted by astronauts Iverson and Rebecca to the core.

Aaron Eckhart (Dr. Josh), Hilary Swank (Maj. Rebecca), Delroy Lindo (Braz), Stanley Tucci (Dr. Zimsky), DJ Qualls (Rat), Bruce Greenwood (Cmdr. Iverson), Tcheky Karyo (Serge).

As a sci-fi fan, this one had my attention from the beginning. The plot is interesting but the graphics, effects, sets, and acting had me glued to the TV. The film is fairly fast paced with few slow parts. Between the amazing scenes, intense emotional interactions and drama, and overall possibility of the end of the earth, this one generates interest on several levels.

Acting was fairly well done by everyone involved and there seemed to be good chemistry between most of the cast. All delivered well and added good depth with a solid feel to the film.

As mentioned, CGI, graphics, and special effects were very well done. Images of the earth interior were quite interesting and Virgil, the craft used, was very well done. Dialogue was well done and advanced the plot with very little junk thrown in for filler. Sound was a bit frustrating with low volume during conversations and very loud music during action or stress scenes.

If you like sci-fi action thrillers, you will probably enjoy this one a lot. Technical work is good, the well known cast does nicely as expected, and the storyline is interesting.

The PG-13 rating seems a bit high for this one. I would say preens and above should be fine viewing this with no nudity, very little violence, gore, or foul language.

Released: 2003
Reviewed: 10.10.16
Star rating: 5 out of 5
Genre: Sci-Fi, Sci-Fi Action, Sci-Fi Adventure, Action, Sci-Fi Thrillers

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: The Philadelphia Experiment (2012)

Continuing research begun with the original Philadelphia Experiment, scientists hope to finally find a way to cloak warships. Instead they bring back the USS Eldridge, the subject of the original 1943 experiments, and a host of new problems.

Nicholas Lea (Bill Gardner), Michael Pare (Hagan), Ryan Robbins (Falkner), Emilie Ullerup (Molly Gardner), Gina Holden (Kathryn), John Reardon (Deputy Reed), Malcolm McDowell (Salinger), Marsha Regis (Rami).

The Philadelphia Experiment (2012) begins well enough as it jumps straight to the current experiments on invisibility leading to the sudden appearance of the Eldridge more than 60 years after the original tests and disappearance. Sadly, the film then strays off with no solid links to the original film, devolving into a mild sci-fi. The rest of the film follows scientists, and victims, as they try to understand and remedy the problem, sending the Eldridge back to 1943 before space and time are ripped apart.

Acting was decent with Lea putting forth a decent performance. Pare being cast in this film, in a different role that is contradictory to his role in the original, was amusing but that was it. Robbins was an interesting choice and delivered nicely. Ullerup, while she had good energy, spent it in the wrong places and felt overly dramatic. McDowell was a solid addition, and Reardon did pretty well.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were reasonably well done. CGI however was obvious and felt contrived which actually detracted from the film. Action scenes were okay, though several were over the top and absolutely inconsistent with the previous film and story. Dialogue was soft and could have used more depth. Sound and soundtrack were mediocre.

Overall this sequel is somewhat disappointing. The lack of focus on the original film or story, poor CGI, thin storyline, and lack of chemistry with the cast park this one squarely in the mediocre sci-fi category. Those with strong interest in the legend, or original film, will likely be disappointed with this one.

Other than some mild sci-fi horror, this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2012
Reviewed: 10.10.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Sci-Fi, Mystery, Adventure, Sci-Fi Fantasy, Action Sci-Fi

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: Ghost Town

Pincus may lack people skills but when he dies, is revived, and wakes with the ability to see ghosts that is the least of his problems. That is, until the ghosts figure out Pincus is the only one who can hear them.

Ricky Gervais (Pincus), Greg Kinnear (Frank), Tea Leoni (Gwen), Aasif Mandvi (Dr. Prashar), Bridget Moloney (Receptionist), Billy Campbell (Richard), Alan Ruck (Ghost Dad), Kristen Wiig (Surgeon), Aaron Tveit (Anesthesiologist).

Ghost Town begins by jumping right into the story and plot with character development along the way. As the story evolves things get much more interesting with humor and depth showing up. The rest of the story is a funny, reasonably paced adventure with some mild misdirection that does a nice job of holding audience interest. And of course, a Happy Ever After ending.

Acting was good with Gervais delivering pretty well. Kinnear fit his role perfectly, as did Leoni who did wonderfully as always. Mandvi, Wiig, and the remainder of the supporting cast was funny and enjoyable throughout.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were what you would expect from a mainstream comedy drama with a fairly well known cast and a decent budget. Nothing special, but nothing shabby either. Action scenes were mild but solid. Dialogue was funny, dramatic, and fitting for the film. Sound and soundtrack were nice.

While Ghost Town may not be the most original of films the story, cast, and humor keep things entertaining from start to finish. Fans of happy romantic comedies should enjoy this one. If instead you are looking for a good ghost story or sci-fi, this isn't it.

With some mild comedy based sexuality, mild violence,  and a few foul words, this one should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2008
Reviewed: 10.5.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Comedy, Romantic Comedy, Romance, Fantasy

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: X-Men: Days of Future Past

When the human-mutant war takes a dire turn the X-Men devise a final solution. Hoping to prevent the war entirely, Wolverine is sent into the past and tasked with changing history once and for all.

Hugh Jackman (Wolverine/Logan), James McAvoy (Charles), Michael Fassbender (Erik), Jennifer Lawrence (Raven/Mystique), Halle Berry (Storm), Nicholas Hoult (Hank/Beast), Anna Paquin (Rogue), Peter Dinklage (Dr. Trask).

X-Men: Days of Future Past launches well with some nice intensity up front. From there the film slips into the main plot with character development taking place throughout the remainder of the film. Sadly, it also re-writes X-Men history and as evidenced by the lack of action, that is the main goal of this film. With only mild action, this one has a lot more drama, emotion, and history than other films in the series and because of that we found it lacking in entertainment value.

Acting was decent with Jackman delivering his usual. McAvoy invested good energy in this one and supported the film well. Fassbender was decent, and Lawrence did nicely as always. Berry, Stewart, Janssen and other big names were hardly used in this one and the acting quality suffered as expected.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were good and blended well with CGI. CGI was okay but felt like imagination was lacking a bit in this one. Action scenes were okay, there just weren't enough of them. Dialogue was solid with nice depth. Sound and soundtrack were fitting.

Overall X-Men: Days of Future Past is a mixed bag. The cast is shaken up, history is modified, action is lacking compared to previous films, and technical work lacked energy. Some may enjoy this one while those expecting high-energy and historical consistency will likely be disappointed.

As always with X-Men; intense violence, sci-fi violence, nudity, mild foul language, and suggestive material none of which should bother teens and above.

Released: 2014
Reviewed: 10.5.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Action & Adventure, Action Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Films based on Comic books, Action, Sci-Fi

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: Fifty Shades of Grey

Based on the novel, Fifty Shades of Grey follows the erotic relationship of Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele. Ten years her senior, wealthy Christian has unusual and specific tastes in which Anastasia quickly becomes very interested.

Dakota Johnson (Anastasia), Jamie Dornan (Christian), Jennifer Ehle (Carla), Eloise Mumford (Kate), Victor Rasuk (Jose), Luke Grimes (Elliot Grey), Marcia Harden (Mrs. Grey), Rita Ora (Mia Grey), Callum Rennie (Ray).

Fifty Shades of Grey is an interesting story following the formation of an erotic relationship between Christian and Anastasia, who finds his unusual tastes interesting. Having not read the book I can't make a comparison, but without a doubt many of the films critical reviews seem based on the book instead.
The relationship expressed here was not only consensual, but Christian was very communicative about his interests and respected the limits Ana set. At the same time I would say the relationship negotiations, which are only mildly represented in the film, are more than I have seen from most in the lifestyle.
Regardless, the film is an interesting look at BDSM from a relationship structure perspective with drama and emotion thrown in to round things out.

Acting was decent with Johnson delivering quite nicely in a variety of, what I'm sure were challenging, situations. Her chemistry with Dornan also worked well in the film. Dornan was good but came across as somewhat dry and detached at times. Rasuk, Rennie, and the remainder of the cast in much smaller roles supported nicely.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were enjoyable with good attention to detail. Color and furnishings were well used to support the theme of the film. Action scenes were mild but good. Dialogue was nicely done and added good depth to the film. Sound and soundtrack were good.

Overall Fifty Shades of Grey just isn't for everyone. Apparently those who have read the book will probably not enjoy the film. Likewise those who are offended by BDSM or unusual erotic relationships may not enjoy this one.

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

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 10.5.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Drama, Romance, Romantic Drama, Steamy Romance

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: Easy

Watch as a diverse collection of Chicagoans explore love, sex, and technology in this star-studded original anthology. See how love can change us, life can be cruelly ironic, and similarities expose differences.

Jane Adams (Annabelle), Zazie Beetz (Noelle), Aya Cash (Sherri), Dave Franco (Jeff), Michael Chernus (Kyle), Jacqueline Toboni (Jo), Orlando Bloom (Tom), Kate Micucci (Annie), Hannibal Buress (Jason).

Easy is an interesting anthology that explores sex and relationships with a minor focus on the impact of technology. Each episode is different and explores a different aspect of relationships, to a lesser extent sexuality, and in some cases, the good or bad impact of technology. Couples trying to reignite their sex lives, challenging social perceptions, the irony of life slapping us in the face, and how a career can strain a relationship and more are presented for your viewing pleasure and contemplation.

The cast in Easy is fairly impressive, including some of the situations in which they are placed to perform. Adams was fun and interesting as always. Beetz was enjoyable, if a bit green feeling. Dave Franco was pretty good, as was Chernus and Toboni. Micucci, whom we have never seen more of before, was enjoyable as always as was Buress.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were solid and fairly standard for the most part, as we have come to expect from this streaming video outlet. Dialogue was well done, moving the storyline along with realistic depth. Sound and soundtrack were both enjoyable.

Easy is easy to like with decent production quality, a solid cast, and constantly changing stories that explore relationships and sexuality with both depth and humor. Those whose dislike their traditional values being challenged may want to pass on this one.

With some fairly graphic sexuality, nudity, adult situations, and questionable language, save this one for older teens and above.

Released: 2016
Reviewed: 9.28.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: TV Shows, TV Series, TV Comedy

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: End Day

Traveling from London to New York, a fictional scientist experiences multiple doomsday scenarios presented in a Ground Hog Day style. With commentary by various experts, this 48 minute long BBC production explores several common catastrophic events.

Glenn Conroy (Dr. Howell), Bill McGuire, Jay Melosh, John Oxford, Frank Close, Brian Cox, Robert Andrews (Dead Man), Craig Court (Scientist).

End Day uses an interesting approach, showing us several doomsday scenarios from the perspective of Dr. Howell in a reality TV theme. The documentary jumps straight to it, unrolling the first scenario immediately. As the world ends, the next scenario begins with much of the initial plot and storyline setup. Dr. Howell learns of the events from media and other sources, and we get to experience their impact with him in real time including the end of the world and the film.

Acting was decent with Conroy doing a fair job in a mild role. The scientists interviewed did well and presented good insight and information consistent with the theme of the film. The remainder of the cast were solid.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were nicely done with the impact you would expect of extinction level events. CGI completed things, giving us a nice look at some unimaginable catastrophes. Dialogue was a bit rough, but better than many documentaries. Sound was good.

Overall End Day is an enjoyable documentary mainly because of the storytelling approach. Those who enjoy their information with a bit of entertainment will like this the most. Those who prefer the facts without fluff will probably be disappointed.

Nothing here to limit audience age so teens and above should be fine.

Released: 2005
Reviewed: 9.28.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Documentary, End of the World, TV Shows, British TV, Science and Nature

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: Containment

When a mutated super-virus with a 100% mortality rate is accidentally released in Atlanta, authorities scramble to find a cure. In the meantime, the city is quarantined behind a cordon to contain the outbreak.

David Gyasi (Lex), Christina Moses (Jana), Chris Wood (Jake), Claudia Black (Sabine Lommers), George Young (Cannerts), Hanna Lawrence (Teresa), Trevor St. John (Leo), Kristen Gutoskie (Katie), Zachary Unger (Quentin).

Containment begins well with nice character introductions and plot setup before smoothly moving to the main plot. As the virus is realized, the city is quickly cordoned off and the intensity moves up a notch. As the quarantine lingers, the film shows us how those inside the walls survive, cope, try to escape, and even profit. Focus then expands to include the emotional drama of key characters, and begins to explore the origins of the virus with a new subplot.

Acting was good with Gyasi delivering a nice performance reminiscent of Denzel Washington. Moses did nicely in a variety of conditions and seemed to work well with others. Wood was very good with solid delivery and emotion. Black, Young, and the remainder of the cast were solid and delivered well.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were solid with a realistic feel and nice variety of locations. Action scenes were well done with nice detail. Gore and blood were plentiful and again, the series had a solid feel. Dialogue had good depth and moved the story along nicely. Sound and soundtrack were nothing exciting but fitting.

Containment takes a nice view and approach to a virus outbreak with a look at how a potential quarantine might work, and how those on both sides of the fence might react. The drama and emotion are nice touches that keep the audience engaged. Those who enjoy a solid drama should enjoy this one.

With plenty of blood, gore, some graphic violence, disturbing adult situations, and mild sexuality, this surprisingly should be fine for older teens and above.

Released: 2016
Reviewed: 10.31.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Drama, TV Drama, TV series

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: Wetlands

Wetlands follows the life of Helen, a lewd young girl with unusual attitudes towards personal hygiene and sexuality. Hoping for the reunion of her divorced parents, shaving a particular area on her body may end up helping.

Carla Juri (Helen), Marlen Kruse (Corrina), Meret Becker (Mom), Axel Milberg (Dad), Edgar Selge (Dr. Notz), Clara Wunsch (Young Helen), Christoph Letkowski (Robin), Peri Baumeister (Valerie).

To say Wetlands is unusual, or morally challenging, is a drastic understatement. While there is some focus on Helen's desire to reunite her parents, her disturbing hygiene habits and unusual sexuality are used as the driver. The result is a film that, by our count, could run no more than 10 minutes without a seriously disturbing revelation beginning with the concept that genitals make a great science experiment. Make no mistake, this story is somewhat disturbing on several levels and persistently personally challenging.

Acting by Juri was incredible. While her delivery was good, the situations she was in and her exposure on screen must have been deeply intense and she managed them well. Kruse was enjoyable as well and fit with Juri nicely. Becker and Milberg both delivered well and fit with the film and the rest of the cast. Selge, Wunsch, and the remainder of the cast were solid.

Camera work was well done while sets and backgrounds felt a bit low-class, which actually fit the theme of the film. Action scenes, such as they were, are well done. Dialogue (the film is captioned by the way) is pretty good. Sound and soundtrack are enjoyable.

Wetlands is a bit difficult to describe in a PG manner which should give you a clue about content. Though interesting in a strange way, this film is most definitely not for everyone. Those who don't want graphic nudity and sexuality, or very disturbing challenges to their hygiene beliefs, should stay far away from this one.

With plenty of graphic nudity, sexuality, foul language, disturbing events, violence, and drugs, save this one for adults and above. Do not take this warning lightly! Though billed as a comedy, if you are squeamish about personal hygiene think twice.

Released: 2013
Reviewed: 9.20.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Comedy, International Comedy, Dark Comedy, Drama, Independent Films

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: London Has Fallen

U.S. President Asher and his Secret Service bodyguard, Mike, are in London attending the British Prime Minister's funeral along with most other world leaders when there is an explosion. Mike quickly realizes the situation is a terrorists dream as world leaders begin to fall.

Gerard Butler (Mike), Aaron Eckhart (Pres. Asher), Waleed Zuaiter (Barkawi), Shivani Ghai (Amal), Michael Wildman (Goight), Radha Mitchell (Leah), Angela Bassett (Lynne), Morgan Freeman (VP Trumbull).

London Has Fallen begins with a fair amount of backstory, setup, and some drama with the apparent intent of generating emotional investment. Being this is an action film however, it is quite simply boring and generic. As the film moves along to the action things get much, much better and the tension builds wonderfully. It seems Mike and Pres. Asher are dealing with a terrorist who is a step ahead at every turn with ridiculously extensive planning, which also makes the film a bit hard to swallow at times. But, the action moves things along well despite reality taking a vacation. The story finally wraps up with a debatable Feel Good ending.

Acting was decent with Butler and Eckhart apparently working well together. Butler shows he can still play the action hero and doesn't need the drama. Eckhart did well though it was a hard sell to believe a standing U.S. President would jump into a gun battle, let alone do well with it. Zuaiter made a pretty good terrorist, and Ghai did nicely with her role. Bassett and Freeman both delivered nicely as always, and fit their roles well.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were nicely done and blended well with CGI creating a very nice visual impact. CGI was well used, supporting the action and building tension throughout. Dialogue was solid and fitting. Sound and soundtrack were well done.

While London Has Fallen may not be a blockbuster or even very original, it is a solid action thriller with decent acting and technical work. Genre fans should enjoy this one.

Violence, gore, more graphic violence, and profanity, Oh My! Rated R, this one really should be fine for mature teens and above.

Released: 2016
Reviewed: 9.20.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Action & Adventure, Action Thriller, Crime Thriller, Crime Adventure, Drama

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: The Wedding Planner

San Francisco wedding planner Mary is the best there is and knows all the tricks including the number one rule for a wedding planner: don't fall in love with the groom. But that may be a rule she can't help but break.

Jennifer Lopez (Mary), Matthew McConaughey (Steve), Bridgette Wilson-Sampras (Fran), Justin Chambers (Massimo), Judy Greer (Penny), Joanna Gleason (Mrs. Donolly), Charles Kimbrough (Mr. Donolly), Kevin Pollak (Dr. John), Fred Willard (Basil).

The Wedding Planner begins well enough with a bit of action and drama before settling into the main plot. As the comedy shows up, so does the romance. The rest of the film is a romantic story peppered with laughs and contradictions. While reality takes a bit of a vacation in this one it supports the story and gives some depth that would otherwise be missing.

Acting was fun here with Lopez once again pulling off the pretty, slightly wounded, woman in search of true love. McConaughey was good and worked well with Lopez, though his performances since this film are much better. Wilson-Sampras fit he role well and delivered nicely, as did Chambers and Greer. Willard was hysterical, and the rest of the cast did a good job.

Camera work was solid as would be expected. Sets and backgrounds were wonderful and contributed quite well to the storyline. Action scenes were mild but enjoyable and fitting. Dialogue was fun with both good romance and comedy. Sound was good, and the soundtrack had some nice numbers.

Overall The Wedding Planner is an enjoyable romantic comedy with good technical work, acting, and a nice storyline. Those who enjoy the genre should enjoy this one quite a lot.

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

Released: 2001
Reviewed: 9.14.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Comedy, Romantic comedy, romantic movies, Romance

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: Generation Earth

Follow Dallas Campbell as he journeys around the globe exploring how mankind has changed the world using technology, determination, and creativity to transform our planet and in the process, our lives.

Host: Dallas Campbell

From mining to skyscrapers, oceans to deserts, we have changed the world in which we live. While most changes are born of necessity, some come to life from creativity. Even then, the ingenuity and inventions created to support monumental undertakings such as the Hoover Dam often overshadow the project themselves. In the process, we have drastically altered the landscape of our world. At times to live in harmony, but often by trying to recreate nature.

Camera work is very well done throughout the series capturing some large projects quite well. Scenery is wonderful and nicely used. Dialogue is simple and direct with neither too much technical detail or repetition. Sound is solid.

Those with an interest in some of the larger projects that have shaped the world, including those not often seen, should enjoy this series. Those wanting technical details or depth may be slightly disappointed.

Nothing here to limit audience age.

Released: 2012
Reviewed: 9.14.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Documentaries, TV shows, British TV, Miniseries

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: Extremis

As the life of a family member is ending, Extremis follows along with medical professionals and family members while making some of the most difficult decisions of their lives.

Extremis is the story of the end for a woman on life support, the decisions and emotions her family face, and the care medical professionals involved are providing. The patient, though conscious and fairly comprehending of her situation, has difficulty communication which complicates the decisions the family has to make.
The short documentary does a nice job of showing us the emotional challenges faced by the family. It also takes a behind the scenes look at the same challenges faced by her medical team as they try to determine the best course of action for their patient and her family.

Camera work is solid with good framing and nice use of backgrounds, and sound is well done.

While this documentary is a great look behind the scenes, it is also highly emotional. Those with interest in the workings of an ICU, and end-of-life care should enjoy this one.

Nothing here to limit audience age, but you may want to save this one for teens and above.

Released: 2016
Reviewed: 9.14.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Documentaries

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

Movie review: We Are Legion: The Story of the Hacktivists

Taking us inside the world of Anonymous, the "hacktivist" collective, we get a look at the people and their reasons for civil disobedience. Critics and others with contrary views chime in with their thoughts as well.

Anon2World, Anonyops, Julian Assange, Aaron Barr, Barrett Brown, Adrian Chen, Stanley Cohen, Gabriella Coleman, Joshua Corman, Josh Covelli, Peter Fein, Mercedes Haefer, Homocarnula.

We Are Legion: The Story of the Hacktivists takes a look inside the technology civil disobedience collective Anonymous. Speaking with members and supporters, we are given a glimpse into the reasons driving their acts and how they hope to change the world by holding others accountable. Included are interviews with others, such as Julian Assange, who support the work of Anonymous in their own way.
Additionally we hear interviews with critics and legal professionals, many of whom share the views of Anonymous to some degree. And others who do not. Ironically, the last word in the film from Mercedes is that every opinion matters. Yet it seems Anonymous is often focused on shutting down websites and such, effectively stifling other opinions.

Though there isn't much acting as this is a documentary, most of those interviewed were fairly intelligent and well spoken.

Camera work is fairly well done, as is use of backgrounds and natural scenery. TV interviews and film footage were used nicely to support the film. Dialogue was decent though there appears to be some bias for Anonymous. Sound and soundtrack were good.

Overall an interesting documentary that does a decent job of explaining the position and approach of Anonymous, and of civil disobedience in the digital age. Those with an interest in social or political documentaries should enjoy this one.

Nothing here to limit audience age.

Released: 2012
Reviewed: 9.14.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Documentaries, Political documentaries, Social documentaries, Science & Nature TV

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel