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Leave the World Behind (2023)
"Leave the World Behind": An Unsettling Enigma with Powerful Performances
"Leave the World Behind" lingers in the mind long after its ambiguous ending. It trades straightforward explanations for a disquieting, atmospheric mystery. Amanda (Julia Roberts) and Clay (Ethan Hawke) vacation in a luxurious rental when it's inexplicably disrupted by the property's owners, Ruth (Myha'la Herrold) and G. H. (Mahershala Ali). They arrive panicked, with vague news of a catastrophic blackout leaving society unraveling.
Director Sam Esmail crafts a mounting sense of unease, amplifying the isolation through long, tense silences and evocative shots of wide-open spaces. The phenomenal cast makes the claustrophobic tension palpable. Roberts and Hawke portray a crumbling veneer of normalcy while Ali and Herrold channel quiet desperation mixed with suspicion. Their uneasy dynamic leaves the audience as unmoored as the characters.
While the film masterfully creates a sense of dread, the source of the crisis remains veiled. Some will find this unsatisfying, longing for clear answers. However, the enigmatic approach allows for lingering anxieties to seep in. Those lingering images of deer-filled highways and crashing Teslas resonate as potent symbols of a world tilting off its axis.
"Leave the World Behind" won't appease audiences craving neatly packaged resolutions. It's a cinematic puzzle box, designed to unsettle rather than comfort. For those willing to surrender to its ambiguity, it becomes a haunting, unforgettable experience propped up by exceptional performances.
Alligator (1980)
"Alligator": A Cheesy Jaws Rip-Off That Still Bites
It's impossible to talk about "Alligator" without acknowledging its blatant borrowing from Steven Spielberg's iconic "Jaws". Yet, even as a shameless copycat, this 1980 B-movie delivers a surprising dose of campy fun, making it a guilty pleasure for creature feature fans.
The plot is simple: a flushed pet alligator grows to monstrous size in the sewers, fueled by discarded lab animals, and goes on a rampage through Chicago. Robert Forster brings a welcome touch of weary cynicism to his role as the determined detective, offsetting the predictable "concerned scientist" played by Robin Riker. Henry Silva is reliably unsettling as the big game hunter brought in to neutralize the reptilian menace.
Where "Alligator" stumbles is in its sometimes shoddy effects and uneven pacing. The alligator itself often looks more comical than fearsome, especially during wide shots. The middle section of the film could use a slight trim.
However, despite its flaws, "Alligator" offers a self-aware charm that elevates it beyond mere mockery. It fully commits to its B-movie schlock, delivering cheesy dialogue, over-the-top gore, and even a ridiculous showdown in a fancy party. If you're in the mood for a creature feature that doesn't take itself too seriously, "Alligator" will make a satisfyingly silly cinematic snack.
Virtuosity (1995)
Denzel and Crowe Can't Save This Dated Thriller
"Virtuosity" promised a high-tech, high-stakes cat-and-mouse game between a cop (Denzel Washington) and a rogue virtual reality creation, SID 6.7 (Russell Crowe). While the premise held some potential back in 1995, time has not been kind to this ambitious yet flawed film.
Washington delivers his usual stoic authority, and Crowe gives SID a gleefully unhinged villainy. Their performances are easily the highlights in a film that otherwise fails to rise above its generic plot. The attempts to depict the virtual world come across as laughably outdated, detracting from any intended suspense.
The narrative stumbles with over-the-top action sequences and clunky exposition. Its vision of VR and artificial intelligence feels rooted in the techno-fear of the mid-90s rather than any sense of realism, diminishing its impact. The result is a film that offers flashes of hammy charm, but lacks the finesse or originality to justify its runtime.
While completists and those nostalgic for 90s popcorn blockbusters might find some amusement in "Virtuosity", modern audiences likely won't find much to justify sitting through the movie. Despite some strong performances, its core concept and visuals have simply aged too poorly to sustain enjoyment.
Alita: Battle Angel (2019)
Eye-Popping Spectacle with a Familiar Core
"Alita: Battle Angel" explodes onto the screen as a feast for the eyes, fueled by dazzling visual effects and heart-pounding action sequences. Set in a dystopian future, the film follows Alita, a discarded cyborg revived by a compassionate doctor, as she discovers her origins and extraordinary fighting abilities.
Director Robert Rodriguez brings his signature kinetic energy to the film, showcasing a vibrant, technologically-advanced world brimming with detail. The film's true star is Rosa Salazar as Alita. Her motion-capture performance brings the wide-eyed cyborg to life with incredible nuance and heart, anchoring the film amidst its whirlwind of visual splendor.
While the visuals dazzle, "Alita: Battle Angel" stumbles a bit in its narrative delivery. The plot leans heavily on established genre tropes, and the extensive world-building occasionally bogs down the pacing. Some supporting characters feel thinly drawn, serving more as plot devices than fully fleshed-out individuals.
Despite these shortcomings, "Alita: Battle Angel" remains a thrilling ride. It's an ambitious manga adaptation that captures the spirit of its source material while forging a unique spectacle. If you're looking for a visually stunning, action-packed cyberpunk adventure with a charismatic heroine at its center, "Alita" delivers an undeniably entertaining experience.
Exam (2009)
A Pressure-Cooker Thriller with a Taut Setup
"Exam" locks eight candidates in a room, throws away the key, and offers a single exam question without a clear answer. It's a claustrophobic thriller that thrives on psychological tension and an unraveling sense of morality. As time ticks away, the candidates turn on each other, alliances crack, and motives emerge from the shadows.
The film's contained setting and ticking clock add an inescapable, breathlessness to the proceedings. Each candidate represents a distinct and often clashing personality, leading to sharp dialogue and tense power dynamics. Luke Mably, in particular, stands out as the ruthlessly ambitious "White," adding a palpable layer of cold calculation and ruthlessness that perfectly fuels the drama.
However, while "Exam" skillfully crafts its initial premise, the final act struggles to maintain the established momentum. The resolution, while clever, might feel slightly contrived when compared to the carefully orchestrated tension that came before. Additionally, some underdeveloped side characters leave a few threads dangling.
Despite these minor flaws, "Exam" remains a taut and entertaining thriller. It's a fascinating character study under pressure, asking intriguing questions about ambition and desperation. Its compact yet sharp execution will hook fans who enjoy tightly-wound, mind-bending scenarios.
The Uninvited (2009)
"The Uninvited" - A Stylish But Predictable Thriller
"The Uninvited", a remake of the Korean horror film "A Tale of Two Sisters", offers a solid dose of atmospheric tension and an engaging central performance by Emily Browning. Returning home after a stint in a psychiatric hospital following her mother's tragic death, Anna (Browning) grows increasingly convinced that her father's new girlfriend, Rachel (Elizabeth Banks), isn't quite what she seems.
The film excels in its cinematography and gothic elements. The brooding coastal setting and eerie old house are masterfully shot, building a palpable sense of unease. Browning is strong as the troubled and determined Anna, bringing a compelling vulnerability to the role.
However, while "The Uninvited" crafts its ambiance skillfully, the narrative falls flat due to an overly telegraphed twist. Even casual viewers of thriller and horror films will likely suss out the secret long before the big reveal, robbing the movie of its intended impact. This predictability dilutes the tension and, ultimately, makes the climax feel underwhelming.
"The Uninvited" works best as a visually appealing, moody thriller that relies more on atmosphere than truly surprising plot twists. If you're craving a film with some decent scares and you don't mind a predictable storyline, it's a passable choice. However, seasoned genre fans might find it leaves them wanting more.
Altered Carbon (2018)
"Altered Carbon": Cyberpunk Vision at its Finest, With a Fading Afterglow
"Altered Carbon" bursts onto the screen with a stunning first season, weaving a high-concept cyberpunk saga that feels at once familiar and refreshingly distinct. Based on Richard K. Morgan's novel, the show explores a world where death is relative - human consciousness can be digitized and downloaded into new bodies, known as "sleeves".
The first season thrives on its complex protagonist, Takeshi Kovacs, and the rich social commentary inherent in its core concept. This new world order exacerbates social inequality, offering near-immortality for the privileged elite, while rendering those less fortunate disposable commodities. This thematic depth merges seamlessly with thrilling action sequences and top-notch visual effects, crafting a truly immersive viewing experience.
While taking some liberties with the source material, Season 1 of "Altered Carbon" stands as a triumph of both world-building and intricate storytelling. It cleverly uses familiar noir tropes within its futuristic setting, delivering a plot full of twists and a protagonist wrestling with a past he can't escape.
Unfortunately, the follow-up season stumbles. While still visually enticing and containing pockets of strong storytelling, it largely abandons the social critique and the layered mysteries that made the first so compelling. It replaces them with a more conventional sci-fi action plot, ultimately diminishing the unique spark of the series.
Despite its stumble, "Altered Carbon" remains a must-watch for cyberpunk enthusiasts. The first season alone stands as a masterwork of the genre, delivering a visually stunning and thought-provoking world with enough action and intrigue to keep viewers hooked.
X (2022)
"X": A Stylish But Shallow Ode to 70s Slashers
Ti West's "X" delivers a stylish homage to the slasher films of the 1970s, a visually appealing bloodbath set against a sun-drenched Texas farmstead. A crew of aspiring adult filmmakers descends upon a rural property to shoot their magnum opus, but their ambitions (and lives) are ruthlessly cut short by their reclusive elderly hosts.
West skillfully evokes the era's gritty aesthetic, complete with grainy textures and slow zooms that build tension. He clearly has a fondness for the genre's tropes, meticulously recreating them. However, this meticulous recreation starts to feel less like tribute and more like pastiche - the film's cleverness becomes its ultimate limitation.
Despite a solid visual foundation, "X" loses steam in its story and character development. While the setup hints at a critique of ambition and voyeurism, the film never fully digs into these themes. This leaves the characters feeling rather thin, their motivations underdeveloped.
The saving grace of "X" is Mia Goth's dual performance. As Maxine, the aspiring starlet, she displays raw ambition and fierce determination. Even more impressively, she fully embodies the frail, fear-ridden Pearl, creating a chilling portrait of warped desire. Her commitment elevates the film beyond simple stylistic replication.
"X" is sure to satisfy fans of the grindhouse-era slasher flick. It's meticulously crafted and visually striking. However, the thrills, while entertaining, feel somewhat hollow, leaving you wanting a sharper wit and a deeper exploration beyond the surface homage.
An American Werewolf in London (1981)
"An American Werewolf in London": A Horror Classic Caught in Time
John Landis' "An American Werewolf in London" holds an undeniable place in horror history. The werewolf transformation scene, a 1981 watershed moment in practical effects, retains a degree of visceral shock. For anyone interested in the evolution of special effects, this aspect alone warrants revisiting the film.
However, "An American Werewolf in London" struggles to fully resonate with a modern audience. The film's blend of goofy, sometimes sophomoric humor and genuine horror feels unbalanced, ultimately undermining the impact of both. The dialogue often comes across as stilted and unnatural, failing to create engaging connections with the characters.
The plot, while containing an interesting seed of folklore, stumbles with illogical leaps and odd pacing. Its attempts to grapple with grief and survivor's guilt feel hollow against the cartoonish tone that permeates much of the movie. Characters make perplexing choices that break immersion in the world of the film.
"An American Werewolf in London" is a product of its time. While it deserves respect for its innovative effects and willingness to break new ground in the horror genre, its dated humor, weak writing, and thin plot make it a difficult film to fully embrace by contemporary standards.
She Will (2021)
"She Will": A Haunting Meditation on Trauma and the Feminine Spirit
Charlotte Colbert's directorial debut, "She Will," is a visually arresting and emotionally potent exploration of feminine trauma and its lingering power. Alice Krige stars as Veronica Ghent, an aging actress wrestling with the aftermath of surgery and the fading grip on a youthful image once central to her stardom. Seeking convalescence in the Scottish Highlands with her young caretaker Desi (Kota Eberhardt), Veronica soon confronts the dark energies bound to the land's tragic past.
The film truly excels in its cinematography. Landscapes take on a near-mythic quality, echoing Veronica's own wounded internal state. Krige's performance is utterly captivating-a masterclass in portraying simmering resentment, quiet vulnerability, and an eventual resurgence of power born from pain. This stands in intentional contrast to Eberhardt's Desi, a symbol of youthful vitality and an initially dissonant note in Veronica's self-imposed world of isolation.
While "She Will" stumbles somewhat in maintaining a consistent tone as it shifts between introspective character study and revenge fantasy, it nonetheless carries a strong thematic depth. The film boldly investigates how society exploits female pain-both past and present. Its use of mysticism and subtle horror elements offers a unique angle for unpacking themes of vengeance and female power.
"She Will" may not be a traditional horror film, but it possesses a haunting undercurrent. Visually rich and anchored by a powerhouse performance from Alice Krige, it's a thought-provoking film with more impact lingering beneath the surface.
Gwledd (2021)
"The Feast": Beautifully Sinister, but a Tad too Tasteless
Lee Haven Jones's "The Feast" offers a compelling, unsettling dive into folk horror and societal critique. Set in a starkly beautiful Welsh landscape, the film follows a wealthy family hosting a dinner party in their remote, modernist home. The arrival of Cadi, a mysterious young woman hired as help, sets in motion a disquieting change in the atmosphere.
Cinematographer Bjørn Ståle Bratberg beautifully captures both the claustrophobic interiors and the desolate landscape, creating a potent visual feast. Yet, despite its compelling concept and striking visuals, the film falls somewhat flat, mainly due to its sluggish pacing.
The first half of "The Feast" emphasizes a brooding sense of unease over explicit horror. This slow burn effectively builds tension but might seem tedious to those expecting a more immediate adrenaline rush. Unfortunately, rather than delivering the anticipated payoff, the final act falls into predictable shock value, trading its psychological grip for graphic, although admittedly well-executed, gore.
"The Feast" undoubtedly leaves an impression. Its environmental themes and exploration of class disparity linger even after its unsettling finale. Still, the film's excessive focus on the atmospheric can leave the narrative feeling slightly undercooked. While a potentially potent feast, its pacing, unfortunately, weakens its overall flavor.
Banlieue 13 (2004)
A Leap Through Chaos
In "District B13" (2004), directed by Pierre Morel, Paris of 2010 is not a city of love, but a city of divisions. A high-wall encloses the most treacherous areas, now referred to as District B13, where lawlessness reigns, and residents either adapt to anarchy or succumb to it. This French action film impresses with its visual style and the raw athleticism exhibited in the many parkour sequences by David Belle, one of the discipline's creators, who plays the protagonist, Leito.
However, it is hard not to notice the film's plotline, which is as thin as the Parisian air, even with its short running time of 84 minutes. The storyline is rushed, often sacrificing depth and development for speed and spectacle. Despite the pulsing energy and fantastic stunts, the lack of a compelling narrative and multi-dimensional characters leaves the viewer hungry for substance amidst the adrenaline.
The film's visual aesthetics are undeniably striking. The chase sequences are choreographed with artful precision, and the panoramic views of a dilapidated, anarchic Paris are both beautiful and haunting. Morel knows how to frame action to accentuate the intricate movements and nimble maneuvers of the parkour artists. Cyril Raffaelli, a renowned martial artist, complements Belle's performance with his combative skills, adding a layer of dynamism to the proceedings.
The primary issue with "District B13" lies in its underdeveloped plot and lack of emotional heft. It feels as if the storyline is just a vessel to display the stunning stunts and fast-paced action. Characters are not given enough room to breathe and evolve, leaving the audience with a lack of connection and investment in their fates.
In conclusion, "District B13" is a visually enthralling action film showcasing incredible stunts and physical prowess, making it worthwhile for action aficionados. However, its narrative frailty and insufficient character development dilute the overall impact, rendering it a cinematic experience that exhilarates the senses but leaves the soul yearning for more. It's a frenetic sprint that could have benefitted from a few moments of pause to explore the depths beyond the dazzling leaps and bounds.
Die Hölle (2017)
A Gritty and Intense Thriller with a Compelling Lead
Directed by Stefan Ruzowitzky, "Cold Hell" is a 2017 Austrian horror movie that follows the story of Özge (Violetta Schurawlow), a young Turkish taxi driver who witnesses a brutal murder. As the killer begins to target Özge, she must use her wits and skills to stay alive.
The movie benefits from Schurawlow's strong performance as Özge, who is a compelling and complex protagonist. The supporting cast is also solid, with memorable performances by Tobias Moretti and Robert Palfrader. The movie's use of Vienna as a backdrop adds to the gritty and atmospheric feel of the film.
What sets "Cold Hell" apart from other horror movies is its focus on action and suspense. The movie features some well-choreographed fight scenes that are intense and visceral. The pacing is brisk, with the movie never letting up on the tension and thrills.
The movie's use of violence is not for the faint of heart, with some graphic and brutal moments that may be difficult for some viewers to watch. However, the violence is never gratuitous and serves to further the plot and develop the characters.
While "Cold Hell" is a solid thriller, it does have some flaws. The movie's plot is somewhat predictable, with few surprises along the way. The movie also struggles to balance its horror and action elements, with the horror taking a backseat to the action in the latter half of the film.
Overall, "Cold Hell" is a gritty and intense thriller that is sure to satisfy fans of the genre. While it may not be groundbreaking, it features a compelling lead performance and some well-executed action scenes. For those looking for a fast-paced and violent thriller, "Cold Hell" is definitely worth a watch. Rating: 6/10 stars.
Perempuan tanah jahanam (2019)
A Chilling and Atmosphere-Heavy Horror Film
"Impetigore" is a 2019 Indonesian horror movie directed by Joko Anwar that explores the themes of family, folklore, and the supernatural. The movie tells the story of a young woman named Maya (Tara Basro), who discovers that she has inherited a rural property in her ancestral village. Along with her friend Dini (Marissa Anita), she decides to visit the village and uncover the truth behind her family's past.
The movie benefits from its strong performances, particularly from Basro, who is able to convey a sense of vulnerability and strength as Maya. The supporting cast is also noteworthy, with standout performances by Ario Bayu and Christine Hakim. The movie's use of local actors and locations adds to the authenticity and atmosphere of the film.
What sets "Impetigore" apart from other horror movies is its use of folklore and mythology. Anwar does an excellent job of incorporating Indonesian myths and legends into the story, creating a sense of dread and unease that permeates the entire movie. The movie also features some genuinely creepy and unsettling moments, with a few well-timed jump scares that will leave audiences on edge.
The film's pacing is deliberate, taking its time to build tension and atmosphere. Anwar's direction is confident and assured, with some beautiful and haunting visuals that stay with the viewer long after the movie has ended. The movie's use of sound is also noteworthy, with a haunting score that adds to the overall sense of dread.
While "Impetigore" is not without its flaws - some of the plot twists feel predictable and there are a few moments that feel forced - it is a chilling and atmospheric horror movie that is sure to leave an impression on those who watch it. The movie's use of folklore and mythology is a refreshing change from the usual horror movie tropes, and it showcases the talents of its director and cast. For fans of the horror genre, "Impetigore" is a must-watch. Rating: 7/10 stars.
Spiral: From the Book of Saw (2021)
A Mediocre Addition to the "Saw" Franchise
The "Saw" franchise has been a staple of the horror genre for nearly two decades, but with the latest installment, "Spiral," it seems that the series has finally lost some of its edge. Directed by Darren Lynn Bousman, who helmed three previous "Saw" movies, "Spiral" follows a new set of characters as they are targeted by a Jigsaw copycat killer.
The movie stars Chris Rock, who also served as an executive producer, as a brash detective who is tasked with solving the case. While Rock's performance is decent, it never quite reaches the level of intensity that the role demands. Samuel L. Jackson also appears in a supporting role as Rock's father, but his character is largely wasted in the movie and fails to leave much of an impression.
One of the biggest issues with "Spiral" is that it never manages to build much tension or suspense. The traps, which are a hallmark of the "Saw" franchise, are lackluster and fail to elicit the same sense of dread as in previous movies. The plot also feels predictable and clichéd, with few surprises along the way.
While "Spiral" may appeal to diehard fans of the "Saw" franchise, it falls short in comparison to the earlier entries in the series. The movie lacks the inventiveness and shock value that made the original "Saw" such a groundbreaking horror film. While it is not a complete disaster, "Spiral" ultimately feels like a forgettable addition to a once-great franchise.
Kvinden i buret (2013)
A Solid Crime Thriller with Strong Performances, But Falls Short in Execution
In "Department Q: The Keeper of Lost Causes," director Mikkel Nørgaard brings to life the first installment of Jussi Adler-Olsen's popular crime thriller series. The movie follows the story of detective Carl Mørck (Nikolaj Lie Kaas), who is relegated to the newly established Department Q, where he is tasked with investigating cold cases.
As Mørck delves deeper into a case involving the disappearance of a young politician, he uncovers a web of corruption and deceit that puts his life in danger. Along the way, he is joined by his assistant, the enigmatic and quirky Assad (Fares Fares), who adds some much-needed levity to the otherwise dark and brooding atmosphere of the film.
The movie benefits from strong performances by Kaas and Fares, who have an undeniable chemistry that makes their odd-couple pairing work. The film also does a good job of keeping the audience guessing, as it slowly unveils the many layers of the case and the characters involved. However, it falls short in its execution of certain key scenes, which feel rushed and underdeveloped.
Overall, "Department Q: The Keeper of Lost Causes" is a solid crime thriller that will keep fans of the genre engaged. While it may not reach the heights of some of its peers, it is an enjoyable enough ride that offers some thrills and chills along the way. For those who are looking for a satisfying mystery with a dash of humor, this movie is definitely worth checking out. Rating: 6/10 stars.