Ride Home Reviews: Recent Episodes
Ride Home Reviews
Welcome to Ride Home Reviews where I talk about new feature films and some of my streaming tv favorites just after I watch them, so you can get my spontaneous response! As someone who has studied films and tv since I was young and even went to school for it, I love giving my observation on what I see for you. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
In rural 1977 Georgia, a misfit girl dreams of life in outer space. When a competition offers her a chance to be recorded on NASA's Golden Record, she recruits a makeshift troop of Birdie Scouts, forging friendships that last a lifetime.
Directors: Bert (as Bert & Bertie), Bertie (as Bert & Bertie)
Writers: Lucy Alibar (screenplay), Lucy Alibar
Stars: Mckenna Grace, Viola Davis, Jim Gaffigan
Likes: Concepts of gender non-conforming roles and the golden record, music and direction
Dislikes: Predictable story filled with cliches
What to watch for: The character of Smash portrayed by Johanna Colon
MY rating: Yes
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
In the forests of the Pacific Northwest, a father devoted to raising his six kids with a rigorous physical and intellectual education is forced to leave his paradise and enter the world, challenging his idea of what it means to be a parent.
Director: Matt Ross
Writer: Matt Ross
Stars: Viggo Mortensen, George MacKay, Samantha Isler
Likes: The Story, The Cast, The Direction, Cinematography
Dislikes: The ending. The Title
What to Watch For: How the scenery changes the attitude of the kids.
MY Rating: Yes.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
A group of women take on Fox News head Roger Ailes and the toxic atmosphere he presided over at the network.
Director: Jay Roach
Writer: Charles Randolph
Stars: Charlize Theron, Nicole Kidman, Margot Robbie
Likes: The first act, the cast, the makeup
Dislikes: the second and third acts, the misuse of the cast, too much focus on the anatgonist.
What to watch for: The editing especially in the first act
MY rating: No
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A 16-year-old girl visits her gay half-brother and ends up seducing his boyfriend, thus wreaking havoc on all of their lives.
Director: Don Roos
Writer: Don Roos
Stars: Christina Ricci, Martin Donovan, Lisa Kudrow
Likes: The Story. Lisa Kudrow
Dislikes: The majority of the cast. The direction.
What to Watch for : Lisa Kudrow is brilliant. She's the only reason to watch this movie.
MY rating: No
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
American car designer Carroll Shelby and driver Ken Miles battle corporate interference and the laws of physics to build a revolutionary race car for Ford in order to defeat Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966.
Director: James Mangold
Writers: Jez Butterworth, John-Henry Butterworth
Stars: Matt Damon, Christian Bale, Jon Bernthal
Likes: Christian Bale, Cinematography, Editing, Pacing
Dislikes; Underwhelming story concept, the ending.
What to Watch for: A particular shot during the Daytona race scene.
MY Rating: Yes
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A black ops super soldier seeks payback after she is betrayed and set up during a mission.
Director: Steven Soderbergh
Writer: Lem Dobbs
Stars: Gina Carano, Ewan McGregor, Michael Fassbender
Likes: Fight Choreography including the editing during it.
Dislikes: Everything else
What to watch for: The use of sound during the hand to hand moments
MY Rating: #%$ NO!
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On the eve of their high school graduation, two academic superstars and best friends realize they should have worked less and played more. Determined not to fall short of their peers, the girls try to cram four years of fun into one night.
Director: Olivia Wilde
Writers: Emily Halpern, Sarah Haskins
Stars: Kaitlyn Dever, Beanie Feldstein, Jessica Williams
Likes: The cast, editing, the theme hitting you right at the beginning.
Dislikes: Pacing, predictable, cliched, some of the comic timing
What to watch for: Billie Lourd's performance
MY rating: ...meh...
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
Set over one summer, the film follows precocious six-year-old Moonee as she courts mischief and adventure with her ragtag playmates and bonds with her rebellious but caring mother, all while living in the shadows of Walt Disney World.
Director: Sean Baker
Writers: Sean Baker, Chris Bergoch
Stars: Brooklynn Prince, Bria Vinaite, Willem DafoeStars:
Likes: Pacing, Direction, Brooklynn Prince's performance
Dislikes: Lack of back story with Willem Defoe's character, the very last scene.
What to Watch for: The bathtub shots.
MY Rating: Yes
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In the 1960s two African-American entrepreneurs hire a working-class white man to pretend to be the head of their business empire while they pose as a janitor and chauffeur.
Director: George Nolfi
Writers: Brad Kane (story by), Niceole R. Levy (screenplay by)
Stars: Samuel L. Jackson, Nicholas Hoult, Anthony Mackie
Likes: The Cast, the story, the score
Dislikes: Some character and plot choices, didn't like the ending monologue
What to Watch For: The subtle use of Taylor Black's character
MY rating: Yes
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
A mature Queen Elizabeth endures multiple crises late in her reign including court intrigues, an assassination plot, the Spanish Armada, and romantic disappointments.
Director: Shekhar Kapur
Writers: William Nicholson, Michael Hirst
Stars: Cate Blanchett, Clive Owen, Geoffrey Rush
Likes: Art Direction, Costumes, Production Design
Dislikes: Pacing was terrible, Story elements were confusing, the direction
What to Watch for: Cate Blanchett reprising her role as Elizabeth
MY rating: No
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A young man searches for home in the changing city that seems to have left him behind.
Director: Joe Talbot
Writers: Jimmie Fails (story), Joe Talbot (story)
Stars: Jimmie Fails, Jonathan Majors, Rob Morgan
Likes: Cast, Story, Cinematography
Dislikes: Needed a little more backstory, parts of third act seemed rushed
What to Watch for: The subtle art of the camerawork.
MY rating: Yes
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
Due to the Corona Virus, the theatres have been shut down so we will be changing the format of the show right now. We will be doing streaming the whole time. So the podcast will be have retro reviews on Tuesdays at 6 and newer streaming and originals on Thursdays at 6. So subscribe now on your favorite podcast platform as well as follow on Instagram and like on Facebook. We will also be restarting our YouTube channel as well. Look to see you there!
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
When Cecilia's abusive ex takes his own life and leaves her his fortune, she suspects his death was a hoax. As a series of coincidences turn lethal, Cecilia works to prove that she is being hunted by someone nobody can see.
Director: Leigh Whannell
Writers: Leigh Whannell (screenplay by), Leigh Whannell (screen story by)
Stars: Elisabeth Moss, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Harriet Dyer
Likes: The cast, the concept, the story
Dislikes: Acting of the antagonist, lack of more visual effects,
What to listen for: the sound design
MY rating: Meh...
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
A week in the life of a young singer as he navigates the Greenwich Village folk scene of 1961.
Directors: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen
Writers: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
Stars:Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, John Goodman
Likes: Oscar Isaac, the supporting cast, the cat motif
Dislikes: Didn't like the cinematography, didn't like overall feel
What to watch for: The scene with Isaac, Justin Timberlake and Adam Driver
MY rating: Meh
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Noah Baumbach's incisive and compassionate look at a marriage breaking up and a family staying together.
Director: Noah Baumbach
Writer: Noah Baumbach
Stars: Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson, Julia Greer
Likes: The cast, the direction, the structure
Dislikes: Muted plot point, Cinmatography
What to Watch For: The climactic scene between Johansson and Adam Driver
MY Rating: Hell Yes!
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loria is an out-of-work party girl forced to leave her life in New York City and move back home. When reports surface that a giant creature is destroying Seoul, she gradually comes to the realization that she is somehow connected to this phenomenon.
Director:Nacho Vigalondo
Writer: Nacho Vigalondo
Stars: Anne Hathaway, Jason Sudeikis, Austin Stowell
Likes: The cast, The concept, the structure of the film
Dislikes: Key backstory elements were missing, lack of resolution with some characters.
MY rating: meh
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
After splitting with the Joker, Harley Quinn joins superheroes Black Canary, Huntress and Renee Montoya to save a young girl from an evil crime lord.
Director: Cathy Yan
Writer: Christina Hodson
Stars: Margot Robbie, Rosie Perez, Mary Elizabeth Winstead
Likes: Art Direction, visuals, Margot Robbie
Dislikes: Direction, Lack of energy from the rest of the cast, unnecessary rating.
What to Watch for: Harley Quinn on skates
MY rating: No.
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Scott Pilgrim must defeat his new girlfriend's seven evil exes in order to win her heart.
Director: Edgar Wright
Writers: Michael Bacall (screenplay), Edgar Wright (screenplay)
Stars: Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Kieran Culkin
Likes: The cast, visual style, sound design
Dislikes: Got gimmicky, story tapered off between second and third act.
What to watch for: The animation interludes
MY rating: Meh....
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An American expat tries to sell off his highly profitable marijuana empire in London, triggering plots, schemes, bribery and blackmail in an attempt to steal his domain out from under him.
Director: Guy Ritchie
Writers: Guy Ritchie (screenplay by), Guy Ritchie (story by)
Stars: Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, Michelle Dockery
Likes: The cast and the characters they played. The music.
Dislikes: The pacing was slow. Cliche'd story elements. Not what you would expect from a Guy Ritchie Film
What to Watch For: Matthew McConaughey's 3rd act monologue
MY rating: No.
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Nine noble families fight for control over the mythical lands of Westeros, while an ancient enemy returns after being dormant for thousands of years.
Creators: David Benioff, D.B. Weiss
Stars: Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington
Likes; Visual Effects, the epic scale. the dragons
Dislikes: The last three episodes, the unnecessary romances, the change in direction with Danaerys.
Favorite Episode: The Long Night
MY Rating: No.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
The true story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, her struggles for equal rights, and the early cases of a historic career that lead to her nomination and confirmation as U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice.
Director: Mimi Leder
Writer: Daniel Stiepleman
Stars: Felicity Jones, Armie Hammer, Justin Theroux
Likes: The cast, The costuming, the first act was very good.
Dislikes: The lack of chemistry between Jones and Hammer, the case they chose was dull, seemed very cliche at points.
What to watch for: The performance of Cailee Spaeny
MY Rating: meh
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After discovering their parents are super-villains in disguise, a group of teenagers band together to run away from their homes in order to atone for their parents' actions and to discover the secrets of their origins.
Creators: Stephanie Savage, Josh Schwartz
Stars: Rhenzy Feliz, Lyrica Okano, Virginia Gardner
Likes: Elizabeth Hurley as Morgan Le Fay, Cloak and Dagger crossover
Dislikes: Alien/Parent story arc should not have resolved in season 2. Limited development of the new villain. Last episode was terrible. Acting and CG was terrible. They almost completely mailed it in on their final season.
Favorite Episode: Devil's Torture Chamber
MY Rating: No
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A Chinese family discovers their grandmother has only a short while left to live and decide to keep her in the dark, scheduling a wedding to gather before she dies.
Director: Lulu Wang
Writer: Lulu Wang
Stars: Shuzhen Zhao, Awkwafina, X Mayo
Likes: The cast, The Story concept, the direction
Dislikes: The ending
What to Watch for: A look into the Chinese/Chinese American cultural differences.
MY rating: Yes
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
Follows the political rivalries and romance of Queen Elizabeth II's reign and the events that shaped the second half of the twentieth century.
Creator: Peter Morgan
Stars: Claire Foy, Olivia Colman, Matt Smith
Likes: Feel of the show, the new cast, being a procedural
Dislikes: Not enough Helena Bonham Carter, the Prime Minister political tension wasn't detailed enough.
Favorite Episode: Tywysog Cymru
My rating: Yes
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
World-renowned civil rights defense attorney Bryan Stevenson works to free a wrongly condemned death row prisoner.
Director: Destin Daniel Cretton
Writers: Destin Daniel Cretton, Andrew Lanham
Stars: Brie Larson, Michael B. Jordan, Jamie Foxx
Likes: Make up, hair and production design, Characters Performance
Dislikes: Underwhelming story, Major unnecessary scene, not enough tension
What to Watch For: End credit pictures
MY rating: Meh
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Three 6th grade boys ditch school and embark on an epic journey while carrying accidentally stolen drugs, being hunted by teenage girls, and trying to make their way home in time for a long-awaited party.
Director: Gene Stupnitsky
Writers: Lee Eisenberg, Gene Stupnitsky
Stars: Jacob Tremblay, Keith L. Williams, Brady Noon
Likes: The direction, the cast
Dislikes: Not much.
What to watch for: The montage at the end.
MY Rating: Yes.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
Two young British soldiers during the First World War are given an impossible mission: deliver a message deep in enemy territory that will stop 1,600 men, and one of the soldiers' brothers, from walking straight into a deadly trap.
Director: Sam Mendes
Writers: Sam Mendes, Krysty Wilson-Cairns
Stars: Dean-Charles Chapman, George MacKay, Daniel Mays
Likes: Cinematography, Sound Design, Production Design, Use of the cast
Dislikes: Lack of character development, editing was muted
What to Watch for: Where the cuts happened.
MY rating: Yes
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
The travels of a lone bounty hunter in the outer reaches of the galaxy, far from the authority of the New Republic.
Creator: Jon Favreau
Stars: Pedro Pascal, Carl Weathers, Gina Carano
Likes: The story, settings, costumes and makeup. Plus, the "feel"
Dislikes: Got a little dry in the middle episodes, some of the CG was not up to par.
Favorite episodes:
Chapter 7: The Reckoning
Chapter 8: Redemption
MY rating: Yes!
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
Here is my Best and Worst List
Best:
Roma, Joker, The Lighthouse, Parasite, The Irishman
Worst:
The Lion King, Gemini Man, X-Men: Dark Phoenix
Honorable TV Mentions:
Stranger Things 3, Good Omens
Hidden Gem:
Rare Exports
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
A charismatic New York City jeweler always on the lookout for the next big score, makes a series of high-stakes bets that could lead to the windfall of a lifetime. Howard must perform a precarious high-wire act, balancing business, family, and encroaching adversaries on all sides, in his relentless pursuit of the ultimate win.
Directors:Benny Safdie, Josh Safdie
Writers: Ronald Bronstein, Josh Safdie |
Stars: Adam Sandler, Julia Fox, Kevin Garnett
Likes: Composition choices, editing, pacing, Kevin Garnett and Adam Sandler performances
Dislikes: Lack of backstory in some parts, the Julia Fox/Adam Sandler relationship.
What to Watch For: The theme of dodging bullets.
MY Rating: Yes
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
Nine noble families fight for control over the mythical lands of Westeros, while an ancient enemy returns after being dormant for thousands of years.
Creators: David Benioff, D.B. Weiss
Stars: Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington
Likes: The pacing, the battles, the connection of the characters and the flow of the story.
Dislikes: The abbreviated season, Arya and Bran's story arcs from previous seasons. Jon Snow and Daenarys romance.
Favorite Episode: Dragonstone (7.1)
MY Rating: Yes
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
A mob hitman recalls his possible involvement with the slaying of Jimmy Hoffa.
Director: Martin Scorsese
Writers: Steven Zaillian (screenplay), Charles Brandt (book)
Stars: Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci
What I liked: Just about everything. The cast, the story, the direction, the setting...
What I didn't like: Deniro's de-aging, a couple of dialogue bits at the end were out of place.
What to watch for: Al Pacino's performance.
MY Rating: Hell YES!
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The surviving Resistance faces the First Order once more in the final chapter of the Skywalker saga.
Director:J.J. Abrams
Writers: Chris Terrio (screenplay by), J.J. Abrams (screenplay by)
Stars: Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Adam Driver
What I liked: The New Locations, The Closure of the Kylo Ren/Rey Story, vindication for a couple of classic characters.
What I didn't like: Story was rushed in Act 1 and 3. The story was incomplete for a couple of the new characters. felt that The Last Jedi was cast aside as a storytelling tool.
What to Watch for: Cameos.
MY rating: Meh
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A young actor's stormy childhood and early adult years as he struggles to reconcile with his father and deal with his mental health.
Director: Alma Har'el
Writer: Shia LaBeouf
Stars: Shia LaBeouf, Lucas Hedges, Noah Jupe
Likes: Noah Jupe, the editing
Dislikes: The story was predictable, the chemistry between Jupe and LaBeouf couldve been better.
What to watch for: The opening scene and the pacing of it through the edit.
MY Rating: Meh
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
In the depths of the Korvatunturi mountains, 486 meters deep, lies the closest ever guarded secret of Christmas. The time has come to dig it up. This Christmas everyone will believe in Santa Claus.
Director: Jalmari Helander
Writers: Jalmari Helander, Jalmari Helander (based on the original idea by) (as The Helander Brothers)
Stars: Jorma Tommila, Onni Tommila, Peeter Jakobi
Likes: Cast, Original Story, Cinematography
Dislikes: Would have liked a little more background.
What to Watch for: Female Representation
MY rating: Yes.
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A couple's first date takes an unexpected turn when a police officer pulls them over.
Director: Melina Matsoukas
Writers: Lena Waithe (screenplay by), James Frey (story by)
Stars: Daniel Kaluuya, Jodie Turner-Smith, Bokeem Woodbine
Likes: Daniel Kaluuya and Jodie Turner Smith, the use of narration, the cinematography
Dislikes: The length, the lack of development with secondary characters
What to watch for: The use of vehicles within the three act structure.
MY rating: Yes.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
Nine noble families fight for control over the mythical lands of Westeros, while an ancient enemy returns after being dormant for thousands of years.
Creators:David Benioff, D.B. Weiss
Stars: Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington
Likes: The accelerated pace mid way through the season, the conclusion of some characters, the season ending was powerful.
Dislikes: The plodding pace at the beginning of the season. Not a fan of Bran's story.
Favorite Episode: The Broken Man
MY Rating: Yes.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
A detective investigates the death of a patriarch of an eccentric, combative family.
Director: Rian Johnson
Writer: Rian Johnson
Stars: Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Ana de Armas
Likes: The cast, the editing, Daniel Craig
Dislikes: Thought the story was too predictable for this highly skilled cast.
What to Watch for: The Coffee Mug
MY Rating: Yes.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
An anthology series centering on different characters and locations, including a house with a murderous past, an insane asylum, a witch coven, a freak show circus, a haunted hotel, a possessed farmhouse, a cult, the apocalypse, and a slasher summer camp.
Creators: Brad Falchuk, Ryan Murphy
Stars: Evan Peters, Sarah Paulson, Kathy Bates, Emma Roberts
Likes: The cast, the throwback to other seasons.
Dislikes: The overall story, the antagonist, misuse of cast
Favorite Episode: Return to Murder House
MY rating: No
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Based on the true story of a real-life friendship between Fred Rogers and journalist Tom Junod.
Director: Marielle Heller
Writers: Micah Fitzerman-Blue, Noah Harpster
Stars: Tom Hanks, Matthew Rhys, Chris Cooper
Likes: Tom Hanks, the transitions done in a "Mr. Rogers Style"
Dislikes: I didn't like the focus of the story not being Mr. Rogers. I wasn't invested in the character that was the focus.
What to Watch for: The fourth wall break in the third act.
MY rating: Meh
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A sequel, of sorts, to Breaking Bad following Jesse Pinkman after the events captured in the finale of Breaking Bad. Jesse is now on the run, as a massive police manhunt for him is in operation.
Director: Vince Gilligan
Writers: Vince Gilligan,
Stars: Aaron Paul, Jonathan Banks, Matt Jones
Likes: Great to see the characters again. Jesse Plemons was excellent
Dislikes: Really didn't need this story and it was kind of flat.
What to watch for: Robert Forster
MY Rating: Meh
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All unemployed, Ki-taek and his family take peculiar interest in the wealthy and glamorous Parks, as they ingratiate themselves into their lives and get entangled in an unexpected incident.
Director: Bong Joon Ho
Writers: Han Jin Won (screenplay), Bong Joon Ho (screenplay)
Stars: Kang-ho Song, Sun-kyun Lee, Yeo-jeong Jo
Likes: The cast, the direction, the camera work
Dislikes: The third act seemed to slow down a bit more than it should
What to watch for: The choreography of the con in the second act.
MY rating: Hell, yes!
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
Nine noble families fight for control over the mythical lands of Westeros, while an ancient enemy returns after being dormant for thousands of years.
Creators: David Benioff, D.B. Weiss
Stars: Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington
Likes: The development of the Sparrows. The closure of the Barathians. The character of Ramsey Bolton
Dislikes: The various non stories. Arya Stark's journey, Danareys being queen. Where was Bran Stark?
Favorite Episode: Hardhome
MY rating; Meh
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
A young boy in Hitler's army finds out his mother is hiding a Jewish girl in their home.
Director: Taika Waititi
Writers: Christine Leunens (novel), Taika Waititi (screenplay
Stars: Roman Griffin Davis, Thomasin McKenzie, Scarlett Johansson
Likes: The cast, the story, the feel and pacing of the film
Dislikes: Not a whole lot
What to watch for: Taika Waititi's role as Hitler
MY rating: Hell yes!
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
The extraordinary tale of Harriet Tubman's escape from slavery and transformation into one of America's greatest heroes, whose courage, ingenuity, and tenacity freed hundreds of slaves and changed the course of history.
Director: Kasi Lemmons
Writers: Gregory Allen Howard (screenplay by), Kasi Lemmons (screenplay by)
Stars: Cynthia Erivo, Leslie Odom Jr., Joe Alwyn
Likes: Cynthia Erivo, the overall story, the historical aspect
Dislikes: The performance of the slave owners, lack of intensity
What to Watch For: More facts on Harriet Tubman just before the credits and the tintype photos of the cast during the credits
MY rating: Meh....
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The hypnotic and hallucinatory tale of two lighthouse keepers on a remote and mysterious New England island in the 1890s.
Director: Robert Eggers
Writers: Max Eggers, Robert Eggers
Stars: Willem Dafoe, Robert Pattinson, Valeriia Karaman
What did I like: The feel of the film, cinematography, the cast
What I didn't like: Not much
What to watch for: Willem Defoe's Performance, I smell Oscar
MY rating: Hell Yes!
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
Nine noble families fight for control over the mythical lands of Westeros, while an ancient enemy returns after being dormant for thousands of years.
Creators: David Benioff, D.B. Weiss
Stars: Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington
Likes: Cinematography, Settings, Production Design, Costumes, really liked how it started and ended.
Dislikes: The lull in the middle of the season, needed more of Bran Stark's journey. Peter Dinklage and Pedro Pascal really stood out this season.
Favorite episodes:
The Mountain and the Viper
The Watchers on the Wall
MY rating: Yes.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
Columbus, Tallahassee, Wichita, and Little Rock move to the American heartland as they face off against evolved zombies, fellow survivors, and the growing pains of the snarky makeshift family.
Director: Ruben Fleischer
Writers: Dave Callaham (screenplay), Rhett Reese (screenplay)
Stars: Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone
What I liked: Camera work, editing, cast
What I didn't like: Story was not compelling, unnecessary sequel.
What to Watch for: Stay to the end.
MY rating: Meh
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So, I had a stroke, right? Well, that gave me some time to watch some stuff while I was recovering.
Here is a list of the series' I watched.
Orange is the New Black Season 7 (Final Season)
The Flash Season 5
The Walking Dead Season 9
Shameless Season 9
Game of Thrones Seasons 1-3
What are your thoughts on any of these seasons? I was underwhelmed with most the exception being Game of Thrones.
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An over-the-hill hitman faces off against a younger clone of himself.
Director: Ang Lee
Writers: David Benioff (screenplay), Billy Ray (screenplay)
Stars: Will Smith, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Clive Owen
Likes: De-aged Will Smith (most of the movie) Columbia fight scene
Dislikes: Everything
What to Watch for: Nothing
MY rating: Hell No
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While I was out of commission on performing this podcast, I still watched quite a few films:
Here is the run down of that list as well as how I felt about them (in order):
Stuber: Hell No
The Kitchen: No
Ready Or Not: Yes
Peanut Butter Falcon: Hell Yes!
It Chapter 2: Hell No
Hustlers: Meh.
What did you think if you saw any of these movies?
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In Gotham City, mentally-troubled comedian Arthur Fleck is disregarded and mistreated by society. He then embarks on a downward spiral of revolution and bloody crime. This path brings him face-to-face with his alter-ego: "The Joker".
Director: Todd Phillips
Writers Todd Phillips, Scott Silver
Stars: Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz
Likes: Cinematography, Choice of time period, pacing, Phoenix's portrayal
Dislikes: Not much. This was the best movie I've seen this year. The hype around the violence in the theatre.
What to Watch for: The portrayal of Gotham akin to late 70's NYC.
My Rating: Hell, yes!
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ride-home-reviews/support
2 months ago I had a stroke. So, therefore, I had to stop everything and recover. However, it didn't stop me from watching the stuff that I loved to watch, so there's quite the accumulation of media I ingested while I was in recovery. So over the next two weeks I will go over what I watched and what I liked and didn't like.
So stay tuned as I get back in the saddle and back to podcasting and giving you the very best of what I do.
Thanks for sticking with me. I highly appreciate it.
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The missions of the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division.
Creators: Maurissa Tancharoen, Jed Whedon, Joss Whedon
Stars: Clark Gregg, Ming-Na Wen, Brett Dalton
Likes: The main cast, Deke Shaw's character development, visual effects of the Shrike and Izell's powers
Dislikes: The "Star Trekkie" art direction, the Coulsen doppelganger
Favorite Episode: Inescapable
My Rating: Meh
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Following the tragic end of her brief superhero career, Jessica Jones tries to rebuild her life as a private investigator, dealing with cases involving people with remarkable abilities in New York City.
Creator: Melissa Rosenberg
Stars: Krysten Ritter, Rachael Taylor, Eka Darville
Likes: The new characters of Eric and Sallinger. Jessica's use of her powers and the Luke Cage cameo.
Dislikes: Trish's character development, Hogarth's and Malcolm's story arcs.
Favorite Episode: A.K.A Hellcat
MY rating: Meh
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This week, I'm joined by special guest, Leo Dion, of Bright Digit.
A faded television actor and his stunt double strive to achieve fame and success in the film industry during the final years of Hollywood's Golden Age in 1969 Los Angeles.
Director: Quentin Tarantino
Writer: Quentin Tarantino
Stars: Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie
Likes: Production Design, Pitt and Dicaprio. Story concept.
Dislikes: Scenes went too long or were extraneous. Not completely clear motive for the villains explained for newer audiences.
What to Watch For: The Great Escape CGI.
MY Rating: Yes.
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Spoiled billionaire playboy Oliver Queen is missing and presumed dead when his yacht is lost at sea. He returns five years later a changed man, determined to clean up the city as a hooded vigilante armed with a bow.
Creators: Greg Berlanti, Marc Guggenheim, Andrew Kreisberg
Stars: Stephen Amell, Katie Cassidy, David Ramsey
Likes: The Curtis v. Argus Hypocrisy Arc
Dislikes: Everything Else. Not a good season for this series.
Favorite Episode: Emerald Archer
MY rating: Hell, no.
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After the murder of his father, a young lion prince flees his kingdom only to learn the true meaning of responsibility and bravery.
Director: Jon Favreau
Writers: Jeff Nathanson (screenplay by), Brenda Chapman(story) | 3 more credits »
Stars: Donald Glover, Beyoncé, Seth Rogen
Likes: Visual Effects/Animation, Voice Cast
Dislikes: No original touches/updates to the film. Same film, different look.
What to Watch For: Pumba and Timon
MY Rating: meh
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A bookish CIA researcher finds all his co-workers dead, and must outwit those responsible until he figures out who he can really trust.
Director: Sydney Pollack
Writers: James Grady (novel), Lorenzo Semple Jr. (screenplay)
Stars: Robert Redford, Faye Dunaway, Cliff Robertson
Likes: Cinematography, Editing, Faye Dunaway
Dislikes: Disjointed Script, Rushed Plot
What to Watch for: Elevator Scene with Redford and Von Sydow
MY Rating: Meh...
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On the eve of his wedding day, a groom's cold feet go viral, forcing him and his bride to rely on the court of public opinion to save-or destroy-their marriage.
Director: Foster Wilson
Writer: Brian Leahy
Stars: Jeanine Mason, Josh Zuckerman, Patrick Quinlan
Likes: Cinematography, Jeanine Mason's character, The pacing of the story
Dislikes: Would like to see more from the parents point of view
What to Watch For: The long takes between the sanctuary to the kitchen and back.
MY Rating: Yes.
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When a young boy disappears, his mother, a police chief, and his friends must confront terrifying forces in order to get him back.
Creators: Matt Duffer, Ross Duffer
Stars: Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Winona Ryder
Likes: Story, Character Development, Erica
Dislikes: Coke's overbearing presence, Neverending Story song
Favorite Episode: Chapter Eight: The Battle of Starcourt
MY Rating: Hell Yes!
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Following the events of Avengers: Endgame (2019), Spider-Man must step up to take on new threats in a world that has changed forever.
Director: Jon Watts
Writers: Chris McKenna, Stan Lee (based on the Marvel comic book by)
Stars: Tom Holland, Samuel L. Jackson, Jake Gyllenhaal
Likes: Visual Effects, the cast, the backstories
Dislikes: Started slow, some comedy fell flat, unnecessary love triangle
What to Watch For: The Spider Sense motif.
MY rating: Yes.
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Limited series adaptation of the classic Joseph Heller novel. Follows Captain John Yossarian and airmen in World War II.
Creators: Luke Davies, David Michôd
Stars: Christopher Abbott, Kyle Chandler, Daniel David Stewart
Likes: Cinematography, Editing, Music, Cast
Dislikes: Did not keep with the theme of the book. Story got monotonous mid way through
Favorite Episode: Episode 4
MY Rating: Meh
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A struggling musician realizes he's the only person on Earth who can remember The Beatlesafter waking up in an alternate timeline where they never existed.
Director: Danny Boyle
Writers: Jack Barth (story by), Richard Curtis (screenplay) | 1 more credit »
Stars: Himesh Patel, Lily James, Sophia Di Martino |
Likes: Editing, Sound Design, Cast
Dislikes: Some pacing issues, but not much
What to Watch For: Kate McKinnon, other things that disappeared as well as the Beatles.
MY rating: Yes.
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An underachieving voice coach finds herself competing in the movie trailer voice-over profession against her arrogant father and his protégé.
Director: Lake Bell
Writer: Lake Bell
Stars: Lake Bell, Fred Melamed, Michaela Watkins
Likes: Concept
Dislikes: Very amateurish in shot selection and pacing. Some plot lines were unnecessary.
What to watch for: The Voice Over montage
MY rating: No.
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When a new toy called "Forky" joins Woody and the gang, a road trip alongside old and new friends reveals how big the world can be for a toy.
Director: Josh Cooley
Writers: John Lasseter (original story by), Andrew Stanton(original story by)
Stars: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Annie Potts
Likes: Cast, Animation.
Dislikes: Not as emotionally powerful as the others in the series
What to Watch for: Key and Peele's Characters during the credits.
MY Rating: Yes!
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A tale of the bungling of Armageddon features an angel, a demon, an eleven-year-old Antichrist, and a doom-saying witch.
Creators: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett
Stars: David Tennant, Michael Sheen, Sam Taylor Buck |
Likes: Almost Everything
Dislikes: Some botched SFX, Michael McKean's accent, and lack of the horseman.
Favorite Episode:
S1.E6 The Very Last Day Of The Rest Of Their Lives
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The peaceful town of Centerville finds itself battling a zombie horde as the dead start rising from their graves.
Director: Jim Jarmusch
Writer: Jim Jarmusch
Stars: Bill Murray, Adam Driver, Tom Waits
Likes: The Cast, the setting, the concept of the story
Dislikes: Not enough Tilda Swinton, some undeveloped plot elements, slow in some parts.
What to Watch for: What do the zombies represent?
MY Rating: meh
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A Catholic school principal questions a priest's ambiguous relationship with a troubled young student.
Director: John Patrick Shanley
Writers: John Patrick Shanley (screenplay), John Patrick Shanley (play)
Stars: Meryl Streep, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams
Likes: Cast, Cinematography, Story
Dislikes: Would like to see more of some characters. Some editing choices
MY Rating: Yes
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Jean Grey begins to develop incredible powers that corrupt and turn her into a Dark Phoenix. Now the X-Men will have to decide if the life of a team member is worth more than all of humanity.
Director: Simon Kinberg
Writers: John Byrne (story "The Dark Phoenix Saga"), Chris Claremont (story "The Dark Phoenix Saga")
Stars: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence
Likes: The top three billed actors and their characters, Cinematography, Visual effects
Dislikes: Poor writing, confusing villains, Sophie Turner, lack of Evan Peters
What to Watch For: A key scene between Lawrence and McAvoy
MY Rating: No
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Two Boston area detectives investigate a little girl's kidnapping, which ultimately turns into a crisis both professionally and personally.
Director: Ben Affleck
Writers: Ben Affleck (screenplay), Aaron Stockard (screenplay)
Stars: Morgan Freeman, Ed Harris, Casey Affleck
Likes: Main Cast, Back Drop as a character.
Dislikes: Michelle Monaghan, cliched plot points
What to Watch for: Amy Ryan's performance.
MY Rating: Meh...
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A musical fantasy about the fantastical human story of Elton John's breakthrough years.
Director: Dexter Fletcher
Writer: Lee Hall
Stars: Taron Egerton, Jamie Bell, Richard Madden
Likes: Costumes, Cinematography, Editing
Dislikes: Extraneous Scenes, Slow pacing, unresolved plot points
What to watch for: The transitional aspect of the musical scenes
MY Rating: Meh
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Two teenagers from very different backgrounds find themselves burdened and awakened to newly acquired superpowers while growing closer together every day.
Creator: Joe Pokaski
Stars: Olivia Holt, Aubrey Joseph, Gloria Reuben
Likes: The chemistry between Holt and Joseph, the New Orleans motif
Dislikes: Pacing of the story needs to be better, starts too slow and ends undeveloped.
Favorite Episode: "Two Player"
MY Rating: meh
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What if a child from another world crash-landed on Earth, but instead of becoming a hero to mankind, he proved to be something far more sinister?
Director: David Yarovesky
Writers: Brian Gunn, Mark Gunn
Stars: Elizabeth Banks, David Denman, Jackson A. Dunn
Likes: The Story. The cast who played the Breyer family
Dislikes: Supporting cast
What to Watch For: Michael Rooker's Rant during the credits
My Rating: Yes!
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The formative years of the orphaned author J.R.R. Tolkien as he finds friendship, love and artistic inspiration among a group of fellow outcasts at school.
Director: Dome Karukoski
Writers: David Gleeson, Stephen Beresford
Stars: Nicholas Hoult, Lily Collins, Colm Meaney
Likes: Direction, Cast, Story construction
Dislikes: Left a wanting a little bit more from some scenes
What to Watch For: Lord of the Rings Easter Eggs
MY rating: Yes.
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In 1850s Oregon, the infamous duo of assassins, Eli and Charlie Sisters, chase a gold prospector and his unexpected ally.
Director: Jacques Audiard
Writers: Jacques Audiard (screenplay by), Thomas Bidegain (screenplay by)
Stars: John C. Reilly, Joaquin Phoenix, Jake Gyllenhaal
Likes: Cinematography, Jake Gyllenhaal
Dislikes: Story was disjointed and lacked character development for the main characters
What to Watch For: See Likes
MY rating: No.
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"The Washington Post" reporters Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein uncover the details of the Watergate scandal that leads to President Richard Nixon's resignation.
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When Fred Flarsky reunites with his first crush, one of the most influential women in the world, Charlotte Field, he charms her. As she prepares to make a run for the Presidency, Charlotte hires Fred as her speechwriter and sparks fly.
Director: Jonathan Levine
Writers: Dan Sterling (screenplay by), Liz Hannah (screenplay by)
Stars: Charlize Theron, Seth Rogen, June Diane Raphael
Likes: Theron and Rogan Chemistry. Direction of the movie
Dislikes: 1st jokes fell flat, a little long.
What to Watch For: Who plays Peter Wembley?
MY rating: Yes.
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In 1942, a Canadian intelligence officer in North Africa encounters a female French Resistance fighter on a deadly mission behind enemy lines. When they reunite in London, their relationship is tested by the pressures of war.
Director: Robert Zemeckis
Writer: Steven Knight
Stars: Brad Pitt, Marion Cotillard, Jared Harris
Likes: Cinematography, Production Designe
Dislikes: Everything else
What to Watch For: Nothing
MY Rating: No.
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A hard-partying high school senior's philosophy on life changes when he meets the not-so-typical "nice girl."
Director: James Ponsoldt
Writers: Scott Neustadter (screenplay), Michael H. Weber (screenplay)
Stars: Miles Teller, Shailene Woodley, Kyle Chandler
Likes; The cast and the direction
Dislikes: A plot device that was used too subtlely
What to Watch For: The supporting cast of adults.
MY rating: Yes.
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After the devastating events of Avengers: Infinity War (2018), the universe is in ruins. With the help of remaining allies, the Avengers assemble once more in order to undo Thanos' actions and restore order to the universe.
Directors: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
Writers: Christopher Markus, Stephen McFeely
Stars: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo
LIkes: Just about everything!
Dislikes: Not enough Captain Marvel, some time shift issues.
What to Watch for: All of the cameos. Including Stan Lee's last one.
MY Rating: Hell Yes!
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Violet is a shy teenager who dreams of escaping her small town and pursuing her passion to sing. With the help of an unlikely mentor, she enters a local singing competition that will test her integrity, talent and ambition. Driven by a pop-fueled soundtrack, Teen Spirit is a visceral and stylish spin on the Cinderella story.
Director: Max Minghella
Writer: Max Minghella
Stars: Elle Fanning, Agnieszka Grochowska, Archie Madekwe
Likes: The Editing, Elle Fanning
Dislikes: Cinematography, Weak, predictable, formulaic story, lack of real character development
What to Watch For: The last scene dressing room to stage and final performance
MY rating: No
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Author P.L. Travers reflects on her childhood after reluctantly meeting with Walt Disney, who seeks to adapt her Mary Poppins books for the big screen.
Director: John Lee Hancock
Writers: Kelly Marcel, Sue Smith
Stars: Emma Thompson, Tom Hanks, Annie Rose Buckley
Likes: Cast, Emma Thompson, Editing and Cinematography
Dislikes: Lack of creative development for Walt Disney and the other characters.
What to Watch For: The color choices for the past and present day.
MY rating: Yes.
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Civil rights activist Ann Atwater faces off against C.P. Ellis, Exalted Cyclops of the Ku Klux Klan, in 1971 Durham, North Carolina over the issue of school integration.
Director: Robin Bissell
Writers: Robin Bissell (adaptation), Osha Gray Davidson (based on the book by)
Stars: Taraji P. Henson, Sam Rockwell, Babou Ceesay
Likes: The Cast, Production Design, Art Direction
Dislikes: Too formulaic and predictable as a script. Length. Not enough impact.
What to Watch For: Taraji Hensen's scene with the Klan paraphernalia.
MY rating: No.
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A brave and clever ragtag starship crew stands up against the evil Empire as it tightens its grip on the galaxy and hunts down the last of the Jedi Knights.
Creators: Simon Kinberg, Carrie Beck, Dave Filoni
Stars: Taylor Gray, Dave Filoni, Vanessa Marshall
Likes: The characters, the story concepts
Dislikes: The handling of the force, the animals and the last attack.
Favorite Episode: #9: Rebel Assault and #10: Jedi Night
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We all have a superhero inside us, it just takes a bit of magic to bring it out. In Billy Batson's case, by shouting out one word - SHAZAM. - this streetwise fourteen-year-old foster kid can turn into the grown-up superhero Shazam.
Director: David F. Sandberg
Writers: Henry Gayden (screenplay by), Henry Gayden (story by)
Stars: Zachary Levi, Mark Strong, Asher Angel
Likes: Story, characters, visuals
Dislikes: Cheesy comedy at points, not convinced on villain's motivation, too long
What to Watch For: How it fits in the DCEU perfectly.
My Rating: Yes.
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Synopsis: After the murder of his family, Marine veteran Frank Castle becomes the vigilante known as "The Punisher," with only one goal in mind: to avenge them.
Creator: Steve Lightfoot
Stars: Jon Bernthal, Amber Rose Revah, Ben Barnes
Likes: Jon Bernthal, the story arcs, the feel
Dislikes: Disjointed story execution, Love triangle storyline, Agent Madani
Favorite Episode: Episode 3: Trouble the Water
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The true story of the Taj Hotel terrorist attack in Mumbai. Hotel staff risk their lives to keep everyone safe as people make unthinkable sacrifices to protect themselves and their families.
Director: Anthony Maras
Writers: John Collee, Anthony Maras
Stars: Dev Patel, Armie Hammer, Nazanin Boniadi
Likes: Camera work and editing
Dislikes: Lack of character development, unfulfilled plot points, too long
What to watch for: The seamless use of actual footage of the event.
My Rating: meh
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Synopsis: A family's serenity turns to chaos when a group of doppelgängers begins to terrorize them.
Director: Jordan Peele
Writer: Jordan Peele
Stars: Lupita Nyong'o, Winston Duke, Elisabeth Moss
Likes: The Cast, The Story, The Direction
Dislikes: A Few plot points and devices
What to Watch For: Ending conflict scene and the editing of.
Rating: YES!
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After the loss of their parents in a mysterious fire, the three Baudelaire children face trials and tribulations attempting to uncover dark family secrets.
Stars: Neil Patrick Harris, Patrick Warburton, Malina Weissman
Likes: Cast, Art Direction, Direction
Dislikes: Parts of back story left untold
Favorite Episode: Penultimate Peril Part 1
Rating: Yes!
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Synopsis: Two brothers attempt to pull off a heist during a NASCAR race in North Carolina.
Director: Steven Soderbergh
Writer: Rebecca Blunt
Stars: Channing Tatum, Adam Driver, Daniel Craig
What I liked: Cast, Story concept
What I didn't like: Plot holes and certain character elements
What to watch for: Adam Driver's Performance
My Rating: Meh
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Synopsis:
Based in Atlanta, Earn and his cousin Alfred are trying to make their way up in the world through the rap scene.
Creator: Donald Glover
Stars: Donald Glover, Brian Tyree Henry, LaKeith Stanfield
Likes: The character development, the main cast, the overall feel of the show,
Dislikes: Would like it to be more episodic and not procedural
Favorite Episode: "Barbershop"
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Carol Danvers becomes one of the universe's most powerful heroes when Earth is caught in the middle of a galactic war between two alien races.
Directors: Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck
Writers: Anna Boden (screenplay by), Ryan Fleck (screenplay by)| 6 more credits »
Stars: Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Mendelsohn
Likes: The overall story, production design, makeup
Dislikes: A certain plot point, Brie Larson
What to Watch for: What Stan Lee is doing during his cameo
Rating: Yes!
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A year in the life of a middle-class family's maid in Mexico City in the early 1970s.
Director: Alfonso Cuarón
Writer: Alfonso Cuarón
Stars: Yalitza Aparicio, Marina de Tavira, Diego Cortina Autrey
Likes: The cinematography and direction and acting
Dislikes: Some slow parts to the story.
What to watch for: The Labor scene and the beach scene
My Rating: A Must See
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Synopsis: The story of Dick Cheney, an unassuming bureaucratic Washington insider, who quietly wielded immense power as Vice President to George W. Bush, reshaping the country and the globe in ways that we still feel today.
Director: Adam McKay
Writer: Adam McKay
Stars: Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Steve Carell
Likes: cast, direction, story, editing
Dislikes: a little long in act 2
What to watch for: the fishing motif
My rating: yes!
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Synopsis: A 90-year-old horticulturist and Korean War veteran is caught transporting $3 million worth of cocaine through Illinois for a Mexican drug cartel.
Director: Clint Eastwood
Writers: Sam Dolnick (inspired by the New York Times Magazine Article "The Sinaloa Cartel's 90-Year Old Drug Mule" by), Nick Schenk
Stars: Clint Eastwood, Bradley Cooper, Taissa Farmiga
Likes: characters, cast and story
Dislikes: some character development pieces
What to watch for: Scenes with Clint Eastwood and Bradley Cooper together.
My rating: Must See!
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Synopsis: Mary Stuart's attempt to overthrow her cousin Elizabeth I, Queen of England, finds her condemned to years of imprisonment before facing execution.
Director: Josie Rourke
Writers: Beau Willimon (screenplay by), John Guy (based on the book "Queen of Scots: The True Life of Mary Stuart" by)
Stars: Saoirse Ronan, Margot Robbie, Jack Lowden
Likes: Production Design, Cast, Make Up and Hair
Dislikes: Not a clear direction with script.
What to watch for: Editing juxtaposition between similar scenes with Elizabeth and Mary.
My rating: Meh
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Synopsis: Arthur Curry learns that he is the heir to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, and must step forward to lead his people and be a hero to the world.
Director: James Wan
Writers: David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick (screenplay by), Will Beall (screenplay by)
Stars: Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Willem Dafoe
Likes: The underwater visual effects
Dislikes: Severe plot holes, terrible character developement. Cliched storylines.
What to watch for: Nicole Kidman
Rating: Meh
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Synopsis: Under the tutelage of Rocky Balboa, heavyweight contender Adonis Creed faces off against Viktor Drago, son of Ivan Drago.
Director: Steven Caple Jr.
Writers: Cheo Hodari Coker (story by), Ryan Coogler (characters)
Stars: Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson
Likes: The characters, camera work and editing during the fight/training scenes
Dislikes: Cliched, predictable storyline. Lacked the depth of the first film.
What to Watch For: Tessa Thompson's musical performances.
Rating: meh
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Synopsis: A musician helps a young singer find fame, even as age and alcoholism send his own career into a downward spiral.
Director: Bradley Cooper Writers: Eric Roth (screenplay by), Bradley Cooper (screenplay by) Stars: Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper, Sam Elliott
QUICK REVIEW: Likes: Cast, Direction, Camera work, Editing Dislikes: Unexplored Plot Point, slow pacing toward end What to Watch For: The Choice of Shot selection on the actors.
Rating: A Must See
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Synopsis: The second installment of the "Fantastic Beasts" series featuring the adventures of Magizoologist Newt Scamander.
Director: David Yates Writers: J.K. Rowling, J.K. Rowling (based upon characters created by) Stars: Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston, Dan Fogler, Johnny Depp, Jude Law, Zoe Kravitz
Likes: The Cast, the art direction, production design and visual effects Dislikes: Plodding Story, lack of new character development, terrible back stories What to watch for: The Chinese cat creature.
Rating: Skip it
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Synopsis: Set in contemporary Chicago, amid a time of turmoil, four women with nothing in common except a debt left behind by their dead husbands' criminal activities, take fate into their own hands, and conspire to forge a future on their own terms.
Director: Steve McQueen Writers: Gillian Flynn (screenplay by), Steve McQueen (screenplay by) Stars: Viola Davis, Michelle Rodriguez, Elizabeth Debicki
Likes: The cast, the story concept, character development Dislikes: 2nd act dragged, some cliched scenes, predictable plot points What to Watch for: Elizabeth Debicki
Rating: meh
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Synopsis: Follows Stevie, a thirteen-year-old in 1990s-era Los Angeles who spends his summer navigating between his troubled home life and a group of new friends that he meets at a Motor Avenue skate shop.
Director: Jonah Hill Writer: Jonah Hill Stars: Sunny Suljic, Katherine Waterston, Lucas Hedges
Likes: Cinematography, the cast, the third act Dislikes: Lack of back story with Stevie’s family. What to watch for: Aspect Ratio of film.
Rating: Yes.
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Synopsis: A look at the life of the astronaut, Neil Armstrong, and the legendary space mission that led him to become the first man to walk on the Moon on July 20, 1969.
Director: Damien Chazelle Writers: Josh Singer (screenplay by), James R. Hansen (based on the book by) Stars: Ryan Gosling, Claire Foy, Jason Clarke
Likes: Sound Design/FX, Editing, Claire Foy Dislikes: Too much handheld camera, some underdeveloped plot points. What to watch for: The moon as a character. Rating: Yes.
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Synopsis: A woman seeks to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of her best friend.
Director: Paul Feig Writers: Jessica Sharzer (screenplay by), Darcey Bell (based upon the novel by) Stars: Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively, Henry Golding
Likes: Good acting, solid characteristic choices Dislikes: a little too cutesy with the humor, film lacked identity, too many plot holes. What to watch for: Blake Lovely’s performance My rating: Nah...
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Synopsis: The story of teenager Richard Wershe Jr., who became an undercover informant for the FBI during the 1980s and was ultimately arrested for drug-trafficking and sentenced to life in prison.
Director: Yann Demange Writers: Andy Weiss, Logan Miller Stars: Matthew McConaughey, Richie Merritt, Bel Powley, Jennifer Jason Leigh
Likes: Art Direction, costumes, the cast and soundtrack Dislikes: The story, the pacing, extraneous scenes, forced themes. What to Watch For: Scene with little boy. My rating: Skip it.
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This season carries over with the aftermath of the riot as the minimum security girls get sent to maximum security. Great season!
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Synopsis: After his 16-year-old daughter goes missing, a desperate father breaks into her laptop to look for clues to find her.
Director: Aneesh Chaganty Writers: Aneesh Chaganty, Sev Ohanian Stars: John Cho, Debra Messing, Joseph Lee
My Review: Likes: Pacing and intensity. editing was incredible Dislikes: Some over done portions. Joseph Lee was not convincing What to watch for: Some of the foreshadowing elements
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Synopsis: Chased by a vengeful criminal, the feds and a gang of otherworldly soldiers, a recently released ex-con, and his adopted teenage brother are forced to go on the run with a weapon of mysterious origin as their only protection.
Directors: Jonathan Baker, Josh Baker Writers: Jonathan Baker (based on the short film "Bag Man" by), Josh Baker (based on the short film "Bag Man" by) Stars: Myles Truitt, Jack Reynor, Dennis Quaid, Zoe Kravitz, James Franco
My Review:
Likes: Original story, character development good pacing
Dislikes: Plot holes, not enough James Franco, some of the acting
What to Watch for: Surprise cameo, police station homage
Rating: Meh.
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Synopsis: Wrongfully convicted for murder, Henri Charriere forms an unlikely relationship with fellow inmate and quirky convicted counterfeiter Louis Dega, in an attempt to escape from the notorious penal colony on Devil's Island.
Director: Michael Noer Writers: Aaron Guzikowski (screenplay by), Henri Charrière (based upon the books "Papillon" and "Banco" by) Stars: Charlie Hunnam, Rami Malek, Tommy Flanagan
Review:
Likes: Cinematography, Art Direction, Production Design
Dislikes: Didn’t feel very French, Hunnam looked too much like Steve McQueen
What To Watch For: Charlie Hunnam’s physical appearance over time.
Rating: meh
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Synopsis: This contemporary romantic comedy, based on a global bestseller, follows native New Yorker Rachel Chu to Singapore to meet her boyfriend's family.
Director: Jon M. Chu Writers: Peter Chiarelli (screenplay by), Adele Lim (screenplay by) Stars: Constance Wu, Henry Golding, Michelle Yeoh
Likes: Cast, set and costume design Dislikes: predictable story, unnecessary story arc of relative What to watch for: The wedding scene.
Rating: Meh
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Synopsis: Ron Stallworth, an African-American police officer from Colorado, successfully manages to infiltrate the local Ku Klux Klan with the help of a white surrogate, who eventually becomes head of the local branch.
Director: Spike Lee Writers: Charlie Wachtel, David Rabinowitz Stars: John David Washington, Adam Driver, Laura Harrier
Likes: The cast, the story, the editing Dislikes: Dragged in some parts, some plot holes What to watch for: Blatant references to today's political climate
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Synopsis: An introverted teenage girl tries to survive the last week of her disastrous eighth grade year before leaving to start high school.
Director: Bo Burnham Writer: Bo Burnham Stars: Elsie Fisher, Josh Hamilton, Emily Robinson
Likes: Great acting. Real world situations Dislikes: Predictable story. What to watch for: Shot composition around Kayla. Rating: Yes.
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Synopsis: While on probation, a black man begins to re-evaluate his relationship with his volatile best friend.
Director: Carlos López Estrada Writers: Rafael Casal, Daveed Diggs Stars: Daveed Diggs, Rafael Casal, Janina Gavankar
Likes: Daveed Diggs, the story Dislikes: None What to Watch For: The rapping
Rating: Hell Yes!
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Synopsis: As Scott Lang balances being both a Super Hero and a father, Hope van Dyne and Dr. Hank Pym present an urgent new mission that finds the Ant-Man fighting alongside The Wasp to uncover secrets from their past.
Director: Peyton Reed Writers: Chris McKenna, Erik Sommers Stars: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Peña
Likes: Cast, Story, Great follow up, everyone is back Dislikes: Didn't care for the Ghost What to Watch For: All the ties to the greater MCU universe
Rating: Yes!
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Synopsis: The drug war on the U.S.-Mexico border has escalated as the cartels have begun trafficking terrorists across the US border. To fight the war, federal agent Matt Graver re-teams with the mercurial Alejandro.
Director: Stefano Sollima Writer: Taylor Sheridan Stars: Benicio Del Toro, Josh Brolin, Isabela Moner
Likes: Brolin, Del Toro, cinematography, score
Dislikes: Weak story that was predictable and cliched.
What to watch for: Isabel Monar
Rating: Skip it
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Synopsis: A small group of former classmates organize an elaborate, annual game of tag that requires some to travel all over the country.
Director: Jeff Tomsic Writers: Rob McKittrick (screenplay by), Mark Steilen (screenplay by) Stars: Jeremy Renner, Ed Helms, Jake Johnson Jon Hamm, Isla Fisher, Rashida Jones
Likes: Cast, Story Dislikes: Tried too hard for some laughs. What to watch for: Portlandia Reference
Rating: Meh
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Synopsis: Based on the true story of survival, a young couple's chance encounter leads them first to love, and then on the adventure of a lifetime as they face one of the most catastrophic hurricanes in recorded history.
Director: Baltasar Kormákur Writers: Tami Ashcraft (book) (as Tami Oldham Ashcraft), Aaron Kandell Stars: Shailene Woodley, Sam Claflin, Grace Palmer
What I liked: Cinematography, Story flow What I didn't like: Could have used stronger actors What to watch for: The foreshadowing
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Synopsis: During an adventure into the criminal underworld, Han Solo meets his future copilot Chewbacca and encounters Lando Calrissian years before joining the Rebellion.
Director: Ron Howard Writers: Jonathan Kasdan, Lawrence Kasdan Stars: Alden Ehrenreich, Woody Harrelson, Emilia Clarke, Donald Glover
What I liked: The story, the places, and new characters What I didn't like: I felt the deepening relationship between Han and Chewie was glossed over. Not a fan of L-337 What to watch for: Donald Glover as Lando Calrissian.
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Synopsis: Foul-mouthed mutant mercenary Wade Wilson (AKA. Deadpool), brings together a team of fellow mutant rogues to protect a young boy with supernatural abilities from the brutal, time-traveling cyborg, Cable.
Director: David Leitch Writers: Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick Stars: Ryan Reynolds, Josh Brolin, Morena Baccarin
What I liked: The new characters, the feel of the movie, James Bond Intro What I didn't like: Not as snappy of pacing as the first one. What to watch for: End Credit scenes
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Synopsis: A mother of three hires a night nanny to help with her newborn.
Director: Jason Reitman Writer: Diablo Cody Stars: Charlize Theron, Mackenzie Davis, Ron Livingston
What I liked: The writing, the acting, the directing
What I didn't like: Some non-connected scenes
What to watch for: The big reveal
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Synopsis: The Avengers and their allies must be willing to sacrifice all in an attempt to defeat the powerful Thanos before his blitz of devastation and ruin puts an end to the universe.
Directors: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo Writers: Christopher Markus (screenplay by), Stephen McFeely (screenplay by) Stars: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo
What I liked: The Team Ups, Thanos and Gamora's back story. The pacing.
What I didn't like: Not much.
What to Watch For: Josh Brolin's performance as Thanos.
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Here's the latest recap from the last two months:
The movies I watched: A Wrinkle in Time, Thoroughbreds, Unsane, Ready Player One, A Quiet Place and Isle of Dogs.
Best Picture: A Quiet Place Best Actor: John Karasinski, A Quiet Place Best Actress: Emily Blunt, A Quiet Place Best Supporting Actor: Mark Rylance, Ready Player One Best Supporting Actress: Millicent Simmonds, A Quiet Place Best Ensemble Cast: Isle of Dogs Best Directing: John Karasinski, A Quiet Place Best Cinematography: Isle of Dogs Best Editing: Ready Player One Worst Movie: A Wrinkle in Time
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Synopsis: Set in Japan, Isle of Dogs follows a boy's odyssey in search of his lost dog.
Director: Wes Anderson Writers: Wes Anderson (story by), Roman Coppola (story by) Stars: Bryan Cranston, Koyu Rankin, Edward Norton
What I liked: Animation, Art Direction, Cast What I didn't like: Pacing, Lack of certain character and storyline development What to watch for: The different forms of animation for certain elements and how they were used.
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Synopsis: A family is forced to live in silence while hiding from creatures that hunt by sound.
Director: John Krasinski Writers: Bryan Woods (screenplay by), Scott Beck (screenplay by) Stars: Emily Blunt, John Krasinski, Millicent Simmonds
What I liked: The use of sound and lack thereof, simple storyline What I didn't like: A few plot holes near the end. What to watch for: The foreshadowing elements.
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Synopsis: When the creator of a virtual reality world called the OASIS dies, he releases a video in which he challenges all OASIS users to find his Easter Egg, which will give the finder his fortune.
Director: Steven Spielberg Writers: Zak Penn (screenplay by), Ernest Cline (screenplay by) Stars: Tye Sheridan, Olivia Cooke, Ben Mendelsohn
What I liked: Story, Visual Effects What I didn't like: Comedy delivery lacking, Ben Mendelsohn's Accent What to watch for: Mark Rylance's brilliance.
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Synopsis: A young woman is involuntarily committed to a mental institution, where she is confronted by her greatest fear--but is it real or a product of her delusion?
Director: Steven Soderbergh Writers: Jonathan Bernstein, James Greer Stars: Claire Foy, Joshua Leonard, Jay Pharoah
What I liked: the cast, story concept What I didn't like: Cinematography, the end of the film What to Watch For: A key cameo.
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Synopsis: Two upper-class teenage girls in suburban Connecticut rekindle their unlikely friendship after years of growing apart. Together, they hatch a plan to solve both of their problems-no matter what the cost.
Director: Cory Finley Writer: Cory Finley Stars: Olivia Cooke, Anya Taylor-Joy, Anton Yelchin
What I liked: Camera work, the main two actors What I didn't like: Pacing of movie at the end What to watch for: Last shot as the plan gets hatched. Brilliant.
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Synopsis: After the disappearance of her scientist father, three peculiar beings send Meg, her brother, and her friend to space in order to find him.
Director: Ava DuVernay Writers: Jennifer Lee (screenplay by), Jeff Stockwell (screenplay by) Stars: Storm Reid, Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon
What I liked: The Visual Effects What I didn't like: The Story What to watch for: Deric McCabe's performance
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For the first two months of 2018, here's how I saw these movies shake out:
Best Movie: The Shape of Water Worst Movie: Annihilation Best Directing: Guillermo Del Toro, The Shape of Water Best Actor: Gary Oldman, Darkest Hour Best Actress: Margot Robbie, I, Tonya Best Supporting Actor: Michael B Jordan, Black Panther Best Supporting Actress: Laurie Metcalf, Lady Bird Best Ensemble Cast: Black Panther Best Cinematography: The Shape of Water Best Editing: Black Panther
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