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Reviews
The Executive (2020)
Keeps You Guessing!
The casting in this film was superior. I especially loved Mitch's character, a guy with hyper ambition who has all the right connections.No time for boredom here with a great plot. Mitch is an experienced "schmoozer" who knows how to get what he's passionate about.
Entebbe (2018)
Never Bored, Creative Film
I didn't expect a good movie as the reviews were very uninspiring so I was pleasantly surprised to really enjoy the film. I was never bored and couldn't figure out why the critics were so harsh. Its based on true events which I vaguely remember. Israel wasn't even 30 years old then and had dealt with the Munich Olympics massacre only 4 years earlier.The acting and casting were authentic although I felt the portrayal of Ehud Barack was somewhat robotic. I loved the dance sequences in the movie which reflected the passion and intensity of the Operation Thunderbolt to free the hostages.It was also a creative endeavour to uplift us from the depressing details of the Air France plane hijacking.The planning of this operation was interestingly written and the real reporter tapes in 1976 showed us the anxiety and fear during that intense time for the passengers,their families and the world. It is true to the actual facts of this terrible hostage taking.There is no overacting or feelings of Israeli superiority in Entebbe.I thought the actor who played Idi Amin was great.Although Yonatan Netanyahu,Benjamin Netanyahu's older brother was commander of the operation,it is never emphasized in the movie.All in all I really enjoyed the movie and would tecommend it to anyone who is interested in the amazing successful Israeli IDF operation to free the Air France hostages in July 1976. My friend's sister in law was actually the woman who they released in London.Many movies & documentaries were madebefore Entebbe but I thought this one is worth seeing absolutely.
The Shape of Water (2017)
A Total Disaster
I was so bored and never really knew what this so called artsy film was about or trying to tell me.To say it was weird is being kind.Was it a cross between The Creature from the Black Lagoon & The Thing,we'll never know. Why are they bringing her masturbating into the film? Is it for shock value? And having sex with the creature was actually funny To contrast, I loved The Darkest Hour for it's amazing performance by Gary Oldem,its wonderful sets,its riveting performances.t although Sally Hawkins is a great actor,why she would consent to act in this drivel is beyond understanding. And for sure there will be people who love this fiasco.It already won 2 golden globes.It was a huge disappointment for me.Thankfully I saw it on Kodi at home so it didn't cost me anything but two hours of my time.
Manchester by the Sea (2016)
This film another reason to be turned off Hollywood
Besides the rants of so called Hollywood "stars" like Madonna,Ashley Judd, Cher,Whoopie Goldberg,Manchester By The Sea has confirmed my belief that Hollywood movies have reached the lowest denominator in years. I expected a great movie considering all the acclaim by reviewers.It is a boring,unimaginative,slow moving,depressing,film that a middle or high school student could do for a class project to show how not to make a movie. Casey Affleck is a terrible actor.Most of the time he stares into space with little dialogue.And suddenly he's smashing someone in the face.There's no depth to this script and no character development either. I kept yawning about to doze off and looking at my watch. The cinematography is good but if I wanted a travelogue about the Boston & surrounding towns in winter,this would be appropriate for that alone. The baroque music just added to the depressing qualities in this film. It never lets up.There are no redeeming features for this film. It should be tossed in the garbage heap never to be heard from again.Please ,don't waste your money & if curious watch it at home on Netflix.
La La Land (2016)
So Disappointed!
I was greatly looking forward to this movie.I had read many reviews and they all seemed very positive.In fact when I read my newspaper's critique is was given 4/4 which is unusual. How let down I am. This was the worst movie I have seen this year.And we saw it in a VIP theatre.It was so slow moving that I felt myself falling asleep. I kept looking at my watch saying "only another 1/2 hour." Ryan Gosling cannot really sing & dance.And Emma Stone may be very photogenic & a good actress but she also is not much of a singer/dancer.There are wonderful musicals such as The amazing "West Side Story",the wonderful "Grease' Chicago was terrific to watch also as well as "Hairspray" with Jennifer Hudson & 'Mama Mia" with Meryl Streep.But this mess was a dud. The plot was simple but its execution was a dismal failure.I cannot figure out all the accolades this movie is getting from the Golden Globes,critics,& user reviews. A few hours after this film,I cant really remember anything worthwhile.Do not waste your money on this film whatever the critics say.It is boring,non believable,& you wont really care about the characters.
Suicide Squad (2016)
I Cant See The Action on Screen,Too Dark.
OK.So I'm a senior.But I've seen lots of Marvel/DC Comics movies. I really liked Ant Man last year because there was a story to it.Suicide Squad was filmed in my home town, Toronto.There was so much hype.But even my grown son hated it when we saw it.There's no character development. We wasted our money.Don't go to this disaster. You'll regret it no matter your age.During each scene, I was wondering what is happening.Because the lighting was so dark,I couldn't make out the action. There were times I kept asking myself why I had agreed to come to this film. The character,Harley Quinn, had this Brooklyn accent which didn't really fit in. The joker was a joke,not even scary or comical.This was the worst movie I have seen this year.
Me Before You (2016)
Pleasantly Surprised
I'm in a book club where this book was very well received.I didn't expect much from the movie but was totally engrossed Emilia Clarke was perfect in the role. She didn't over act and was terrific as the 26 year old somewhat klutzy caregiver of the quadriplegic young man.I was never bored for a moment.As only the Brits can do,it was totally realistic The screenplay, acting, music, cinematography, all contributed to a beautiful movie.It never descended into being too schmaltzy. I thought the casting was right on, & although it dealt with very serious issues, still I found myself laughing in many scenes, especially at Clarke's antics. Every character in this movie played their role to the tee, no under or over acting. For a lovely movie experience this summer,which deals with current issues, & will provoke discussion,do yourself a favour and go see "Me Before You. You'll be glad you did.
Mr. Holmes (2015)
So Refreshng And Enjoyable
I wish that more movies were like Mr. Holmes. Even if you don't speak English, the gorgeous scenery, beautiful music, and naturalness of this film would absolutely move you,in my opinion. For those young and old who are tired of car crashes,special effects,and "shoot'em ups" along with dinosaurs,super heroes,etc.,this is a wonderful relief. I found myself smiling throughout most of the movie. There is a definite plot and one that kept me guessing through the entire film. The three main characters are terrific in their believability. Sir Ian McKellen is superb as Sherlock Holmes.What an amazing actor.Laura Linney is wonderful as Holmes' housekeeper with her perfect English accent.Her son,Roger,played by Milo Parker added greatly to the plot.And what a fantastic actor he is given his young age. There are many flashbacks but they blend in so easily that you are never at a loss to know what's going on,as in many movies like this. I truly love most of the Brit movies.There is such a down-to-earth feeling and this film is no exception. I am still in a wonderful mood thinking of this winner of a movie.I will definitely see it again. If you want to relax and see a lovely,intelligent movie with great acting and terrific screenplay go to Mr.Holmes.It is a rare gem that you may not have heard that much about but you won't be disappointed.
Spy (2015)
How Disappointing
I was looking forward so very much to this movie.It sounded from the reviews that it would really be funny & witty. And since it was my birthday,my family and I decided to attend a VIP Cineplex theater in Toronto where you are served food at your seat if you desire. The theater was great,the food was delicious,but the movie was,in my opinion, atrocious & not very funny. I loved Melissa McCarthy's serious role in St. Vincent. In this movie although she played her part well,the film itself was silly & actually boring. The actors played their roles well,but the script,including bathroom humour,stupid dialogue,and not being very credible, was so mediocre that at one point I actually fell asleep.My grown son kept hoping it would soon be over. There have been so many intelligent parodies & witty comedies in the past:"Some Like it Hot" from 1959 by Billy Wilder,all the Pink Panther movies,Johnny English with Rowan Atkinson,(Mr. Bean)and the list goes on.The only interesting thing for me was the traveling to the different locations. Please don't waste a penny on this stupid,unfunny slapstick,foulmouthed so called comedy. Luckily we had free tickets with our scene visa card but it was still a complete waste of time.
Jurassic World (2015)
Forgettable
Although the visuals in this movie are wonderful along with the realistic looking dinosaurs,it is still a forgettable movie when you leave the theatre.The plot is so mundane and boring. The protagonists could be fighting aliens,their military enemies or even King Kong. It is all the same. I kept looking at my watch to see how much longer this movie was.Segments of the film are enjoyable,the music for the most part is moving,but the plot has much to be desired.The acting in parts is very weak aside from the younger boy whom I thought is a realistic young actor.The script was silly especially when one of the theme park tech workers is about to kiss his colleague and she says "No,I have a boyfriend." Everyone in the theatre laughed.It was very corny along with much of the script. But the 3D dinosaurs are awesome and fun to watch. I would wait for this film to be on DVD,rather then spend money to watch it.
Woman in Gold (2015)
Could Have Been a Great Movie
I didn't know what to expect when going to see "Woman In Gold" yesterday.But I totally agree with many of the reviewers who felt the movie lacked emotion. I just couldn't connect with the characters even though Helen Mirren's portrayal of Maria Altmann was perfect down to her crisp Austrian accent.Opposite her was Ryan Reynolds as Maria's lawyer.He played it as the straight,young lawyer who also had family killed in the Holocaust. Even though I can't put my finger on the why of his lacklustre portrayal he seemed to try too hard in this role. He didn't seem natural at all. I much preferred the Austrian investigative reporter.He seemed much more genuine. This story is true and I felt that with the right screenwriter and some casting changes it would have been a movie as wonderful as "Philomena" which is also based on a true story but much more believably done.I loved The story of Philomena and it touched me emotionally while "Woman in Gold" has left me cold and detached.Watch this film on DVD rather than spend your money at the theatre.
Boyhood (2014)
Beyond Disappointment
I think back to this movie and have no feeling for it.Although I remember all of the scenes,there is no emotion or empathy that I feel.It was three hours of watching nothingness,in my opinion. I could have been watching my or my friends' life stories,but ours are probably more exciting than this ludicrous film. It was apparently filmed over twelve years. Why? They could have hired different actors as time went by and made this movie in a few months.I don't see it as artistic or unique in any way.A young boy grows up.Like all of us in different ways there are various issues;divorced parents,being bullied in high school,etc. So what? I compare this film to a fascinating British series called the "Seven Up Series." A small group of British children,aged seven,from various backgrounds and classes were interviewed. Every seven years,until aged fifty six,they were followed.Not all of them continued to participate later on, but most of them did.It was amazing to see what had happened to them in comparison to what their initial thoughts were when they were seven years old.I loved that series.It was clever,interesting,unique and I couldn't wait to see what had happened to these kids.In "Boyhood",by comparison,I couldn't care at all what happens to Mason,his sister,his mom played by Patricia Arquette or his dad,Ethan Hawk.I was left with an empty feeling. Why did I waste three hours watching this boring film which masquerades as art? Please,don't let it win best picture at the "Golden Globes" or"Oscar Awards". I will be completely turned off Hollywood movies. Don't waste your money on this drivel.Watch it for free when it's on TV if you are really curious.
The Interview (2014)
Hilarious Spoof
For all the negative reviewers,remember,this is a parody,a spoof of North Korea,although I don't think it was exaggerated enough. I laughed so much.What fun & entertainment.Although there is lots of toilet humour,the film is still very funny.The sad thing is that underneath all the mockery and comic effect of this movie is the reality that life in North Korea is a true nightmare.I kept thinking if all the North Koreans would see this movie,maybe life would imitate art and they would revolt.How about a North Korea revolution just like the French or Russian revolution.I was surprised it was filmed in British Columbia,Canada but was proud.The tiger used is actually from the Bowmanville Zoo near my home in Toronto. All in all,I will definitely see it again. James Franco,and the actor playing Kim Jong Un were fantastic in their roles.The script was clever along with terrific visuals and awesome music.It's a true parody that everyone can enjoy but please don't take it too seriously.
Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014)
Are The Critics From Another Planet?
I debated all day whether to go to this movie because of all the negative reviews from users and professional critics,even in my daily Toronto newspaper. I decided to go for it & convinced my adult son to accompany me.Our deal was if he hated it,I would buy us Chinese food for dinner.Immediately,we were totally immersed in the film.The music,3D effects,costumes,etc.were wonderful.I was never bored during the whole movie.What do people expect? So Christian Bale is not brown skinned.I felt,nevertheless,he did a great job as Moses.(Moshe)Some of the maids in the palace were non Caucasians and many of the Egyptian soldiers were also non white. Oh yes,crocodiles were part of the plagues which is not written in the Old Testament.So what? This is Hollywood.Even scholars of the Old Testament and researchers in Egyptology do not agree on all the biblical writings.The main story was told very realistically and maybe with a unique interpretation. But nothing took away from the brilliant special effects.I would have appreciated a more striking and powerful scene when Moses received the Ten Commandments from God. You must see this movie in 3D.I felt as though I were inside the chariots racing along the desert sands to stop Moses and his people from leaving for Canaan. God is portrayed as a young boy.His name could not be said,only "I Am" because God is too spiritual to be seen or have his name spoken.True,it is a different take on the original movie,but still very powerful.I think Charlton Heston would approve.I found Moses to be very emotional in the movie as was his step brother Ramses. The plagues were totally amazingly portrayed.The visuals in this movie including the land of Egypt in 1300 BCE, and the plagues,especially the Shadow of Death enveloping the country were breathtaking.For a complete movie immersion and not forgetting that this isn't a religious production,you will be totally entertained.The 3D effects were worth seeing above all else.Run,don't walk to this entertaining,informative movie this holiday season.Imagine,no sex and not too gory violence in a movie today. The battle scenes were awesome with fantastic cinematography. All in all,I would see it again and again.So there,all you haters of this fine production.I loved it.
Gone Girl (2014)
So Disappointed
The ratings were so high for this movie.I was sure it would be a great film. What rubbish it was. For the first hour I kept looking at my watch,it was so slow moving. Ben Affleck was average in his performance. The acting of Rosamund Pike was way over the top,even though she played a psychopath. There was so much sex,oral sex,suggestive sex in this film for pure shock value or maybe to make a boring movie more interesting. But nothing could help this moronic film.At the beginning I couldn't even hear the dialogue between them.It was so garbled.The plot was silly in my opinion. There are more fascinating plots in real life. And the men portrayed in this film are spineless weaklings while the women are tough and crazy.For example,the crime stories of killers Jodi Arias,Casey Anthony,and all the other crime plots on 48 hours or Dateline are mysteries which are fascinating,as well as being true.Thankfully,I had a gift card to this mess of a film,so paid very little. Why it is considered the best new movie out this week doesn't say much for the calibre of movies made today. Do not waste your money on this very bad crime mystery.Better to watch 20/20,or 48 hours at home. I like David Fincher as a director but nevertheless was extremely disappointed.The lesson here is don't believe the critics, audience and/or ratings all the time. Do some research.This film is a waste of your time and money.
This Is Where I Leave You (2014)
Don't Waste Your Money
I was so disappointed in this movie,and only went as my friend wanted to see it. The script,acting,and so called humour were just terrible. I don't know how people can have any positive feedback for this boring,silly and stupid film. I am no prude but why was there a need for such a gross script. A toddler pooping in his potty anywhere in the house is supposed to be cute. I don't think so. All I remember of this film is talk about boobs,penis',the F word,etc. Couldn't Jane Fonda and Jason Bateman get a better movie to appear in. I kept looking at the time and couldn't wait for it to be over. The scenes were so immature and dumb slapstick. There were no witticisms or clever scenes and dialogue. The siblings smoking pot in the synagogue was ridiculous.The young rabbi looked as though he was in junior high.Even though I'm a secular Jew,still,I found that certain traditional scenes like the funeral,synagogue scene, etc.were very embarrassing and even insulting. Sitting shiva after a death is to be taken serious,not the way it was portrayed in this silly film. Don't waste your money or time to see this stinker of a film.It's not even worth watching on DVD.Every scene is exaggerated and each character in the family is a caricature.The film is totally unrealistic.I was very disappointed with the weakness in all aspects of this movie.
Dr. Cabbie (2014)
Run,Don't Walk to See This Entertaining Film
I am still "high" on this film having gone this afternoon,even after doubting it would be very good.Wow,was I pleasantly surprised.I absolutely loved it.From the first great,cinematic shots in India to Deepak's arrival in Toronto with his mom,I was utterly mesmerized.The casting is spot on,in my opinion,from his westernized uncle,and flaky but likable caucasian wife,to Tony(The Big Bang Theory)his cabbie friend,and the rest of the great cast.There was no overacting and all the situations were very believable. I laughed heartily,then,had tears in my eyes at certain truisms re immigrant professionals who are forced to drive cabs to make a living. This is a true tragicomedy. The script was wonderful and to the point,as was the plot.But for myself,being a Torontonian,how wonderful to finally portray Toronto as Toronto.It's about time. And what wonderful cinematography of the city. The shots showed the fantastic city T.O. really is,especially stunning ones of the CN tower at night.Also,throughout the movie the music was appropriate and wonderful,partly Bollywood,Italian,etc.which added to the Joie de vivre of this exceptionally funny film.I didn't want the short Bollywood dancing scene to end at Deepak's birthday party. So,if you want 101 minutes of pure escapism and entertainment,without CGI effects,far fetched ideas,or silly,gross comedy(like"Bad Grandpa")but just a realistic type story,run,don't walk to "Dr.Cabbie." I promise,you won't be disappointed.The director,Jean Francois Pouliot should be applauded for this memorable,fun film.
Non-Stop (2014)
Intense & Gratifying
When Liam Neeson mentioned to Jon Stewart on The Daily Show that he's 63 years old,I couldn't believe it. Not only is he a wonderful actor,but such a gracious,intelligent and humble person. And he brings these qualities to all his movies. After seeing a terrible movie a few months ago, Bad Grandpa,I had all but given up on spending money on so much drivel out there. I really lucked out with Non Stop.As the other reviewers have stated,you're on the edge of your seat.In so many movies,I'm looking at my watch,etc.,but not in this masterpiece.I was totally immersed in this movie.Neeson is a true actor. He's so believable in this role as in his many others. You are definitely kept guessing & wondering who is the culprit.(s) It's not too long & to me had a satisfying ending as all the bad guys "got it." So,if you want a terrific movie with great casting,(shocked to realize that Lady Grantham (Downton Abbey) played by Michelle Dockery is one of the stewardesses),run,don't walk to see this great film.Given what's happening in the world today with the lost plane,this movie has all the more relevance regarding how vulnerable we all are when flying.
Philomena (2013)
Judi Dench is Wonderful in this Depressing Story
I'm neither Catholic nor Irish,but this moving story about a teenage unwed mother in 1950's Ireland,moved me deeply. I had seen The Magdalene Sisters previously & was shocked at how the girls were treated. Judi Dench is a believable older woman who has always wondered for the last fifty years what had happened to her son who was adopted (sold) from the convent by a couple for 1000 pounds. I became very tearful at one point unexpectedly.For Philomena,the ending was not what she had hoped for.However the story is still written by the journalist accompanying her,with her permission. This is a true story based on a newspaper article. You may walk out feeling depressed,as,for some reason I did.All in all,it's a worthwhile movie to see,especially if you have an adopted child or had to give up a baby or child in the past.
Bad Grandpa (2013)
Stupid!Stupid!Stupid!
Luckily I had seen four previous great movies,so I figured 4/5 intelligent,engrossing movies is not too bad in the last few months. This movie was gross,boring,raunchy,disgusting & really sickening.I am by no means a prude or turned off slapstick,but this film had no redeeming qualities. Feces,farts,penises,beer,& constant shallow dialogue was not one bit funny. When I saw "Borat" with Sacha Baron Cohen a number of years ago, I laughed so much that tears were running down my face. There was a message in this movie.In"Bad Grandpa",there is no message. It is empty,bathroom humour constantly. The movie tries so hard to copy "Borat" & to be funny,but in my opinion,it fails miserably. I should have walked out after the first half hour & asked for a refund. What a complete waste of an afternoon! Do your due diligence and read all the reviews. Don't throw away your money and time on this silly,gross out film.
Captain Phillips (2013)
You Must See this Movie
I've been on a roll these past few months,seeing four fantastic movies, Blue Jasmine,Prisoners,Gravity & now this wonderful film based on a true story about Captain Phillips whose cargo ship was swarmed by Somali pirates. The action leading up to this moment is fast paced,interesting, & mesmerizing.I was never bored for a second even though the movie was over two hours.This movie was totally riveting,from start to finish.Tom Hanks was superb. I was so proud & impressed with the US Navy & the Navy Seals in the way they handled this horrendous situation. It's one of those movies you rarely see where there is no overacting,the casting is realistic and you feel as though you are watching a true-to- life reality show. If you see only a few more movies before the end of this year,make sure Captain Phillips is one of them.You will be thoroughly moved by every segment of this amazing film.
Gravity (2013)
Complete Escapism for 90 Minutes
If you want a total break from the daily worries & routines of your everyday life,I suggest you go see "Gravity." Along with the 3D experience I was utterly transported to outer space and completely absorbed in this amazing visual "feast for the eyes",and every other sense. It's really a total "happening." Sandra Bullock was so believable.There was no overacting in this movie from any actor.Kudos to the director,cinematographer,and music score.It is a mesmerizing movie that will stay with you forever.I will see this again and again and again. You will leave the theatre feeling a great sense of renewal and satisfaction. Don't miss this gem.
Prisoners (2013)
Two Days Later,still thinking about Prisoners.
It is rare that a Hollywood movie would provoke so much thought,analysis,& discussion as "Prisoners" did for me.I was hooked from the beginning.Fantastic performances were given by Hugh Jackman & Jake Gyllenhaal.The Direction by Denis Villeneuve was amazing.As in Incendies, his 2012 nomination for best foreign movie,there is an unexpected twist. With no special effects,no sex,moderate violence to make a point,the movie still hits a cord with the audience. I will definitely see it again as there is sure to be new revelations the second & third time. If you only see a few movies before the new year,make "Prisoners" your first choice. In some way,we are all prisoners of our environment & of our own thoughts & actions.
Blue Jasmine (2013)
Laughed Until I Cried in Parts!
In my opinion,Woody Allen is a genius,and to me this was his best film ever. From the moment Jasmine(Cate Blanchette)is on the plane rambling on and on about her issues,I was hooked. Her portrayal of a"Bernie Madoff type spouse" is superb. If she doesn't win an Oscar for her acting of a former wealthy,high society gal whose fortunes have turned drastically,I will be very surprised. The story/plot is simple, but the casting and dialogue,are both perfect in this film. I am still thinking about the story,as it can be thought about on many different levels. If you have the opportunity to see "Blue Jasmine," run,not walk to the theatre. Who needs special effects,costumes,and 3D effects as great as they are today? This relate able story in today's environment was a wonderful analysis of a character's development.I felt I knew and understood Jasmine, aka Jeanette.I cannot wait to see this wonderful film again.
Side Effects (2013)
Riveting Movie!
Coincidentally,my son & I went to see this movie on Bell Canada's "Let's Talk" Day, which is to raise money for mental health. The main protagonist in this film suffers from depression. Suffice it to say we were never bored throughout this film. I thought the actors were extremely believable,especially Jude Law,as the psychiatrist,& Rooney Mara. You are drawn into this drama moment by moment,wondering what will happen next.The audience is made to think & question the plot & sub plots. At times,I was slightly confused but the ending wraps it all up with much satisfaction. This film is a tense thriller,thankfully without too much bloodshed,sex,& violence. Yet,it is truly one of the best films I've seen in a very long time. It's a compelling story with an excellent script, not overdone. If you only see a few films this year,make sure "Side Effects" is one of them.I guarantee that you won't be disappointed,especially in this time where so many people are being treated for mental health issues.