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Reviews
The Unforgivable (2021)
"The Unforgivable: Sandra Bullock's Oscar-Worthy Performance... with a Side of Plastic Surgery Puzzlement"
Film Review: The Unforgivable (2021)
The Unforgivable offers a gripping emotional journey, with Sandra Bullock delivering a truly compelling performance that anchors the film's exploration of redemption, guilt, and personal transformation. Bullock portrays Ruth Slater, a woman released from prison after serving time for a violent crime, as she struggles to rebuild her life and reconnect with her estranged sister. Bullock's ability to convey Ruth's internal turmoil is remarkable-her expressions, body language, and raw vulnerability create a deeply believable character, making Ruth's emotional arc one that resonates long after the credits roll.
The film's narrative is heavy with weighty themes and is, for the most part, executed well. However, there are moments where the film falters slightly. Some of the writing seems a bit off, with a few plot points feeling rushed or underdeveloped. Whether these issues stem from bad writing, post-editing, or the invisible hand of movie-making politics, it's unclear, but they occasionally take away from the film's overall impact.
One noticeable element that feels somewhat out of place is the way the film handles Bullock's character's appearance. Ruth's face, altered by plastic surgery, feels like a rather odd plot device that doesn't quite land. It's a distraction in an otherwise well-crafted story, as it doesn't entirely justify its presence in the narrative.
Despite these minor missteps, The Unforgivable is still a deeply moving film, bolstered by an incredible lead performance and a thought-provoking story. It may not be perfect, but it's a nice, worthwhile watch that'll leave you reflecting on its themes long after you've seen it.
A Fall from Grace (2020)
"A Fall from Grace: Tragic Genius"
Review: A Fall from Grace - A Cinematic Catastrophe That Could Leave You Speechless (Or Nauseous)
Oh dear, where does one even begin with A Fall from Grace? Let's just say that if this film was directed by the same Tyler Perry who lent a home to Meghan and Prince Harry, perhaps it's time to consider if his generous real estate decisions are more impactful than his cinematic ones. The movie is a trainwreck-shoddy, underwhelming, and so painfully awkward that it's hard to believe anyone involved thought it was anything more than an excuse to move some furniture around.
The plot? A nonsensical mess that barely hangs together, leaving you wondering if the script was pulled from a hat or written in a fit of confusion after too many late-night caffeine binges. The acting? If "wooden" were an Olympic sport, the cast would be bringing home gold. It's as if the performers were told to act like they've never encountered human emotions before, and the result is a lot of stilted dialogue and expressions that could make a mannequin blush.
But the real treat comes at the ending. Oh, the ending. It's so jaw-droppingly ridiculous that it almost feels like the filmmakers were deliberately trolling the audience. In fact, the conclusion is so absurd, it could double as a perfect "how-not-to" guide for any aspiring filmmaker.
If aliens ever landed and needed a training film to understand the full spectrum of human folly, A Fall from Grace would be their go-to. On the bright side, at least it might serve as a distraction for intergalactic invaders-no one would be able to focus on subjugating Earth with this cinematic disaster playing in the background.
All in all, this is a film that will make you question not just the plot, but the very idea of cinema itself. For all the wrong reasons, it's definitely worth watching. But be warned: if you manage to make it through the whole thing without wincing, you deserve an award yourself.
Rating: 1/10-A spectacular disaster that will have you questioning how and why films like this get made.
Dominique (2024)
"Dominique: Bullets, Bluster, and Brain Off - A Masterclass in Predictable Mayhem"
Film Review: Dominique (2025)
Dominique is the kind of action thriller that doesn't shy away from its roots-it's loud, fast, and packed with the kind of relentless, no-frills action that will either have you grinning or groaning, depending on your expectations. This modestly-budgeted film promises exactly what it delivers: a barrage of bullets, an explosion of noise, and a plot as predictable as the sunrise. If you go in expecting a complex narrative or a twisty, cerebral story, you'll quickly be disappointed. But if you're after a no-holds-barred, action-packed ride, then Dominique is likely to satisfy.
The plot is familiar, perhaps even stale, featuring a lone hero seeking revenge in a city rife with crime and corruption. The characters are little more than one-dimensional stereotypes, and the dialogue isn't exactly destined for the history books. But let's be clear-Dominique isn't pretending to be anything it's not. It's a straightforward action film that never tries to reinvent the wheel, but certainly does its best to keep the wheel spinning at full speed.
Critics, as expected, have panned the film for being formulaic and predictable, with audiences on IMDb marking it down for exactly the same reasons: bullets, noise, and a lack of surprises. However, I find myself more generous in my assessment. In a genre that often seems weighed down by pretensions or overcomplicated storylines, Dominique feels like a breath of fresh air. It's unapologetically what it is, and for that, it deserves a little credit. If you're in the mood to turn your brain off for 90 minutes, watch some bullets fly, and enjoy some decent stunts, this film might just hit the spot.
Sure, the acting isn't award-winning, and the plot isn't going to make anyone think deeply, but if you're not expecting Citizen Kane and just want a bit of entertainment, Dominique delivers exactly that. If you happen to doze off halfway through, don't worry-you haven't missed much, but you'll still have had a decent, if unremarkable, time. A perfect choice for when you just need a quick, mindless action fix.
Rating: 6/10-A solid, if predictable, action movie that doesn't promise more than it can deliver.
The Craigslist Killer (2011)
Craigslist gone wrong: darkly entertaining.
The Craigslist Killer is a surprisingly engaging TV movie that brings to life a dark chapter in the history of the once popular online platform Craigslist. For those unfamiliar, Craigslist started as a community-focused website where people could post ads for jobs, housing, services, and personals. It quickly grew into a massive hub for just about everything, but its anonymity and reach have occasionally led to criminal cases, including the disturbing story behind this film.
As a made-for-TV movie, The Craigslist Killer is often underrated, scoring around a 5 on IMDb. But realistically, it deserves a bit more credit-I'd rate it a solid 6.5. The film follows the true story of Philip Markoff, a medical student who, shockingly, used Craigslist to lure his victims, ultimately leading to tragic outcomes. It's not exactly high art, but it doesn't need to be. It's an easy watch, a bit predictable, but still consistently entertaining, if not mildly irritating in its simplification of events. That said, those elements keep production costs down, allowing the story to unfold efficiently.
In terms of accuracy, The Craigslist Killer stays reasonably close to the actual events. While it might embellish some drama here and there, it captures the unsettling dichotomy of Markoff's seemingly normal life and his secret activities, adding tension even if you already know the story. It's not a film that will leave you on the edge of your seat, but it does deliver a glimpse into how a tragedy could emerge from an everyday platform like Craigslist. You can still use Craigslist for lots of stuff, but not as popular as it was when this film was made.
Nineteen Eighty-Four (1984)
Richard Burton's Last Hurrah: Big Brother's Watching, But You'll Be Watching Burton!
The 1984 film adaptation of George Orwell's novel 1984, directed by Michael Radford, offers not only a powerful portrayal of a dystopian future but also a fitting final showcase for Richard Burton's remarkable talent. Often, an actor's last performance can feel anticlimactic, perhaps even underwhelming, as age or circumstance diminishes their impact. However, Burton's portrayal of O'Brien in 1984 defies this trend, standing as one of his most haunting and memorable roles. Rather than fading away, Burton exits with intensity and gravitas, leaving an indelible mark on the film.
In this Virgin Films production, one of Richard Branson's ventures that sadly didn't achieve the commercial success hoped for, Burton's O'Brien brings chilling depth to Orwell's vision. He's calm yet menacing, intellectual yet ruthless, embodying the contradictions of a regime that systematically crushes individuality. The power of Burton's performance elevates the entire film, adding weight to its themes of surveillance, propaganda, and control.
Alongside John Hurt's powerful portrayal of Winston Smith and Suzanna Hamilton's role as Julia, Burton's performance remains unforgettable. Their moments together, particularly O'Brien's chilling manipulation of Winston, are gripping, turning the film into an intense and unnerving experience. 1984 may not have been a commercial triumph, but it stands as a lasting testament to Burton's skill, a final "hurrah" that honors his legacy.
The Good Liar (2019)
The Plot Twist Turns into a Plot Trip"
Film Review: The Good Liar
In The Good Liar, Helen Mirren is, as always, on sparkling form, bringing a certain poise and charm to her role that makes you want to believe in the film's promise. Ian McKellen, however, feels a bit weary, as though the last act of his career is casting him in scripts he may only have half-read. Watching these two legends is a treat, but the storyline they've been handed doesn't do them justice.
The plot unfolds with a decent setup, slowly drawing us into the game of deceit between these two characters. There's a suspenseful build-up, and, like any good thriller, it teases the inevitable twist. But when that twist does arrive, it's less of a shock and more of a "really?" The reveal is a complete head-scratcher, a turnip of a plot point that leaves you squinting at the screen, wondering if someone swapped in a different script while no one was looking.
This twist defies common sense, throwing aside all believability in one swoop. It's as if the scriptwriter wanted to up the stakes but lost track of what those stakes even were. One can almost imagine Mirren and McKellen reading through the first act, nodding approvingly, and signing on - only to find themselves too far in to turn back when things took a nosedive.
If they wanted to bring up the war, well, WWII seems a bit too distant, doesn't it? Perhaps a reference to the Suez Crisis would have added a dash more realism, or at least a hint that the film knew what it was aiming for.
Overall, The Good Liar is a lesson in wasted potential. Mirren and McKellen could do this in their sleep, and maybe that's what happened here. It's a film that had all the right ingredients but somehow ends up as a missed opportunity.
Joker: Folie à Deux (2024)
"Wasted Brilliance"
Review of Joker: Folie à Deux
Oh, Joker: Folie à Deux-a shining example of how to squander millions, pool together incredible talent, and still create something utterly, flamboyantly forgettable. This film is proof that you can gather every ounce of cinematic brilliance, let them scale the lofty peaks of their abilities, and toss endless piles of cash at a project... only to end up with a giant, steaming heap of mediocrity.
The talent? Impeccable. The budget? Astronomical. The result? An exercise in how to waste everyone's time. It's as if every dazzling element, the cast, the director, the production team, were thrown into a blender without any sense of purpose or cohesion. The result is something like a high-budget art project gone horribly, horribly wrong.
Let's face it: this is a film that wears its pretentiousness like a badge of honor, only to reveal that underneath all the elaborate costumes, elaborate sets, and elaborate plot twists, it's as empty as a balloon waiting to pop. What we're left with is a massive disappointment, a bloated spectacle that somehow manages to simultaneously reek of effort and utter pointlessness.
Kill the Irishman (2011)
Not as bad as Vinnie Jones Irish accent
Most every scene is well constructed and role along nicely. They all tell a neat little tale which offers an easy to watch movie. Decent levels of violence that fit in with a fast paced narrative.
Some nice sub plots that give the film a strong emotional empathy between the characters. Keeps it authentic. Yet the blend between scenes.is dry and boring. This massive production fault strips away some of the potential that the film clearly has but doesn't touch.
Surely a few technical moves could have polished the film up to a far better level. The extra cost would have been a great investment.
Vinnie Jones. What's not to love? Nothing other than his desperately poor Irish accent. Vinnie looks great and acts to the convincing level Vinnie acts at. But oh no don't anyone ever ask Vinnie again to do an Irish accent. He can clearly do most things - but not an Irish accent.
Not an Oscar in this film. But a great watch.
Conviction: Murder at the Station (2016)
Is not an end the end ?
Maybe I'm getting to be too demanding in expecting a beginning, middle and end. We certainly get a beginning and a bit of a middle, but no end...!!!
That's so disappointing, I found the two episodes so enthralling. The main character is a gem. But frankly as it stands it's not worth watching, because it's missing an episode, an ending. So disappointing....
The building of the narrative introduces us to a strong, dynamic character working at the centre of a fast paced charity. Surrounding herself with professionals from a variety of interesting and very serious work. The pace picks up as the story develops - then pop, the ballon bursts and it's all over. I really feel like sending a stern letter to someone for building up by senses and then letting me down.
This is not entertainment 😞
Expend4bles (2023)
You get what you expect and want
This is a high functioning action movie. Full of old fashioned value such as attractive scantily dressed women, gratuitous, inventive deaths (oh so many deaths). Great choreography, almost guaranteed to end in the well deserved death of a bad guy. Such wonderfully depicted gun fight scenes, culminating in last moment escape. Knife fights, chain fighting and lots of "old school" rough and tumble.
Add to that a plot with a wonderful twist (as if you couldn't predict that...). What's also so predictable is the lowly score presumably assembled by Guardian readers, who can't enjoy themselves or let their hair down even a little bit and chill. It's a lovely film for those who can suspend reality and enjoy being entertained without having to dissect every nuance as if it matters.
Go on watch it, you just know your "really" enjoy it, what's not to ...!!
Trafficking (2023)
Half Decent - May even resonate
I was drawn into this film, as Dirty Den appears at the very beginning. What was that about, answers on a post card please, as I'm none the wiser? But it worked, and the film just about made it, to keep me more or less interested.
In any event not a great, yet not a bad film. Bit of over acting by some (well most in fact) of the cast. Perhaps that's the directors fault. However it's got a solid beginning, middle and very good end.
The development of the characters is very and often, over stated. Yet, if suspending reality and just wanting to watch a bit of easy watching, contemplating what the British criminal world maybe get up to. Add in alcoholic beverage and your Friday night curry bag, from the supermarket, this is an excellent choice.
Nicolas Ball, you may recall him from his prime, in and as Hazel. He hasn't been doing a great deal of significance work over the recent years. That's a surprise as his role is brilliant. Clearly the best performance in the film. However Evie Hughes makes a sterling performance throughout. She is very young, yet produces a virtual masterclass in acting. I suspect young Evie has a long and generous career ahead of her brilliant self.
I can see a Hollywood producer using this film as a basis to invest heavily in a lavish production built around what has been accomplished here. Trafficking deals well with a dirty aspect of criminal life, a bit more polish, less spitting and lots more money, a remake could well become a major motion picture. Yet, no role for Dirty Den. Real name Leslie Grantham who made a splash when Eastenders first hit our little screen in the 80's, sadly died in 2018, having left Albert Sq after 20 years.
Fatale (2020)
Better plot and more twists than Fatal Attraction
Irrespective of how good and style of film that looks at infidelity is it can't be better than Fatal Attraction. It's the first, therefore it's sets the resilient standard. However this is almost better than Fatal Attraction. Perhaps let down by Michael Ealy, whose character is weak and not persuasive, maybe because the production budget wasn't as grand, nudity isn't so pronounced, it's on Netflix goes against it, as your high brow aficionados have a natural instinct against Netflix.
Irrespective is a strong film with a great performance by Hilary, who incidentally looks great and delivers a stunning, string performance.
Great watch and a worthy entertaining motion picture.
The Covenant (2023)
Significant Departure for Richie - Brilliant
What's not to like about this ? Substantially nothing, you could argue it some way, the powerful portrayal itself somehow denuded the horrendous manner in which we treated interpreters in this war. Well maybe. That's certainly the case. But that isn't Richie's fault or anyone else connected with the film - I imagine.
So turning to the raw product, it's a stupendously splendid production. Well written, great production and engages a talented very able cast of players. So not your normal bad lads muddle by film, significant social commentary with this film. Richie is now serving up shoot em and bash em up with social conscious. Great.
It has an easy to follow story, with tension, fire fights, the baddies getting killed en mass, with just enough of the good guys getting it, to bring in hints of sadness, without damaging your spirit. On reflection given you will probably watch it with your clothes on, one of the most exciting things you will do dressed this year :)
Creed III (2023)
Good but not brilliant
I felt it was a decent evenings entertainment, you know what to expect, and you know you will get it. But it just didn't work as well as others in this genre. Such a pity. Felt the story line was too pacy and even unbelievable...!! You could say that about all of the Rocky and Creed movies, but somehow they just miss that critic. This one catches it full on. Fine performances, but just felt storyline, direction and artistic interpretation wasn't as good as could be.
Pity that there is a dispute between SS and Winkler. Who will ever know what's that about? Perhaps this has tainted this film. If so, a pity, or maybe we need a break, had excitement overload on the blood, sweat and muscle bound man front...
Harry: The Interview (2023)
Royal Interviews: Destined to Destroy
I know of not a single in depth interview, by a major Royal, that the Royal comes out well, after it's broadcast. I watched the Prince Andrew one, as I did both Diane, and the Prince Charles interviews. All great insights, and highly entertaining. Problem is the "devil will cite scripture for his own purposes". And they will, they of course being the media - all shapes and sizes.
So Harry is candid, a little naive and certainly a little precious, but he is a bright able fellow. This interview, is if viewed, from a neutral posture, is entertaining, with one or two awkward moments. Yet, of course, I'm afraid Harry runs the risk of being seen as a pious, privileged, pissy, ginger whinger.
Who couldn't wish Harry, Megan and the kids, well (maybe not - 25 families in Afghanistan...) ? The test of this programme, however, will be determined by the global media. It's provides a massive resource for them to paint this family, as they will. The pendulum at the time of broadcast is not in the families favour. But of course pendulums swing ...
Good watch, and good luck Harry and family....
End of the Road (2022)
Oh dear - the Queen demotes herself
Such initial promise. Yet sadly I can only assume, the script writer got the sack, half way into the movie. It further appears the writer got replaced with the tea boy. Now the tea boy did OK, but the plot got diluted.
Indeed after a while even the tea boy must have left the production. Dear old Quennie comes up with rehashed tediously boring lines, such as "no one messes with my family". She snarls, as she delivers that line, but it's still unconvincing, as is the whole film.
Oh dear me what a load of old cobblers, this film is - thank goodness all those evil folk get their much deserved just deserts. Clearly America is populated in the main by good for nothing inbreed Nazis. Still Queenie and family manage to rise above stereotypes, and come up good. Well if only they could, because they don't. Culturally this is a depressing window on a world that eventually will be censured by enlightened future generations.
Watch out for the stunt 1 hour 16 minutes in, by Queenie. Clearly she went on a crash diet for that scene, and man can she move for a large woman. Just so typical of the bad production, acting, continuity, that this pile of nonsense is.
All in all the film is rubbish and clearly the Queen is dead, or at least dying - that's such a shame. As I only watched the film as she was in it. In future be more selective Queenie, otherwise you will end up in soaps, in a couple of years. Your so much better than this.
The Minute You Wake Up Dead (2022)
Why Oh Why ... Morgan
Dear Morgan, he has brought so much joy into the world, over so many years. Sadly, he appears to have taken leave, of his senses, in agreeing to act, in this second rate B movie. Morgan plays a wise old Sheriff. But of course if the Sheriff was as wise as he appears, Morgan would know, his character, should have retired about 25 years ago. Despite Morgan's strong and sustainable ability to act, his obvious 80 plus biological years, defeats even his able ongoing talent, to be credible in this role. Law enforcement officers, are considered past it, in their late 50's.
The script is thin, and barely clings on to credibility. The very essence that creates a foundation to the film is incredulous. It's no spoiler to mention that numerous people have lost money. That's fine, good grounding, giving vigour and interest, to many sub and major plot lines. But what really ruins it, is the reason given, as to why many have lost their money, is because two companies have failed to merge! Really. Goodness me, a child in the early years at secondary school, could create a more believable dynamic than that.
No doubt Morgan demands a decent salary for his appearance. Clearly this left little to pay many more talented actors. One or two could act their way out of a wet paper bag, unfortunately not most.
All in all, a horrendously, disappointing film. Morgan cannot be proud of this effort. Best if he reads the scripts, I suggest before contractually binding himself in, in future endeavours.
Agent Game (2022)
Mel needed the mon$y
Terrible film when you consider what Mel has done.
Essentially Mel filmed 3 scenes and these got cut across the film in between people firing guns and chucking hand grenades around.
Some nice artistic shots but in the round a terrible film.
My best advice is don't waste your life on this one.
Midnight Special (2016)
Worthwhile Decent Film
I can't accrued this in the BBC iPlayer, I clicked just to get a summary but the film started and gosh I enjoyed it. Held me. Some strong direction and solid acting from a very competent cast. One of those films that leaves a slow burn for a while. Very worthy ...
Passing (2021)
Preposterous Nonsense
I simply can't understand the point of this film. It suggests that some black people "passed" as white. I'm sure that was and indeed is the case. OK great so make a film about that with credible players in the role. Yet the actors in this production are confusingly clearly black and in no way convinced me they could pass as white. Brilliant actors all the same but not suited fir this part. This resonated with a most debilitating position, denuding the credibility of the film. I wanted to love this film and in a way it leaves an emotional impression. But it could have been so much better.... Shame.
10,000 BC (2008)
Suspend some reality and it's rather good
I enjoyed this film - I must say I gave it a go despite the slightly below average comments and score. It does take itself a tad too serious - but that element I ignored. May I say, it is a bit corny, a bit silly but nevertheless a worthy effort. No one will ever do a PhD around this but very jolly film. It gave me what I wanted and I'm the better for it.
El Candidato (2020)
Gritty and Gripping
Probably the best thing I've seen Jane's Purefoy do ever. Can't imagine why there are only 10 episodes and not 10 seasons. Beyond that it's strongly put together with an intelligent well written script - but trust me watch it. It's great....!!!
The Card Counter (2021)
If only the end was as good as the rest :(
A really powerful gripping drama developed so well. Great characterisations, interesting storyline with intriguing undercurrents and back stories. A few leaps of faith needed, but hey, it's a film. Exciting climax which goes completely off the rails as the wheels just all come off in the last few minutes. I was robbed..!! Did they run out of money, time or couldn't they just be bothered. In any event great flick but such a poor ending :(
The Execution of Gary Glitter (2009)
Strong, Powerfully Underrated
Our nation is not split on capital punishment, the majority are in favour. Accordingly our elected representatives simply won't give way to that point of view. Good I say, as I don't feel we should judicially kill people. Yet equally I do believe in democracy and the will of the people.
On this issue of course it's not up for debate at any serious level, as close examination would expose the lie that Parliament is a representative democracy. I feel that this drama is too close to the bone and as such those of us who can be bothered to rate this show are generally going to not like the narrative. So in order to continue to close down the debate it gets marked down as being a poor quality programme. It's not poor it's very good, too good. That's why the general view is that it isn't - it's a form of liberal censorship. Very disappointing - but that's life.
Bosch: Por Sonia (2021)
Oh No ...!!! They messed it up with this one....
Gosh how I've looked forward to this series of Bosch. Indeed until this final episode it's hit the mark, top banana and more. THEN ... well the final episode of the final series comes along and it appears they have run out of money and creative ideas. Clearly some top executive determined that everything had to be wrapped up no matter how dire and unrealistic this impacted on the hitherto strong story line. No matter about character development over 60 or more episodes - just wrap it up. RESULT, DESPERATELY POOR.
I have a theory that Chief Irvin who is clearly becoming so wooden as an actor that he may have some disturbing debilitating illness. The man appears is becoming a tree - perhaps the best medical brain's prognosis was they had to wrap it up as they calculated all movement would be impossible past this episode. I hope they find a cure for the poor fellow.
I also wish Bosch himself well as any future career. Perhaps they will film his antics with a new set of chums. If so I will be watching.... On balance marvellous TV shame about this ending.