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Conclave (2024)
although we Sisters Are Suppose To Be Invisible. God Has Never less Given Us Eyes and Ears.
One of the best movies this year, no doubt it will be an Oscar winner. The acting was excellent and visuals are stunning. A movie that has adult themes, but not one cuss word.
I went to see Conclave on my day off. I was happy to see they made an intelligent movie worth seeing. I have always been fascinated with the many secrets of the Catholic church. Conclave begins immediately after the unexpected death of a popular Pope. It is Cardinal Lawerance ( Ralph Fiennes) to summon all the Cardinals to discuss who will be the next pope. The will gather together to prepare for Conclave. They will be sequestered inside the Vatican called Casa Santa Marta
When all the Cardinals are gathered from various countries. They realize a Cardinal from Kabul has been added. Cardinal Tedesco ( Sergio Castellio) who has South American Ties. They begin the process of Conclave, but before being sequestered they are allowed to get together smoke, check phones, and browse the internet. Once Conclave begins all their personal items have to be turned in .
When they are sequestered inside the walls of the Vatican. They all look around and see how the Cardinals stick with their fellow countrymen. This is when Sister Agnus ( Isbellia Rossellini) is introduced. She is one tough Sister who knows more than the Cardinals think.
When the voting begins four popular candidates are picked. Bellini ( Stanley Tucci ), who is a liberal and wants to be a pope for every Catholic. Trembled ( John Lithglow) who is a conservative. Acetaminophen ( Msamati) who would be the first black pope, and Benitez ( Carlos Dichs). To pick a Pope a Cardinal has to receive 60 percent of the vote. Several votes go by before a new Pope is selected by a small margin. It is Adeyemi, he would be the first black pope ever. One night Lawrence overheard a violent argument coming from Adeyemi's room. When Lawrence walks out, he just misses the nun. He soon finds out that A eye I fathered a child with a nun. That nun was bought over with the help of Cardinal Tremblay, who wanted Adeyemi black balled. Little did the Cardinals know that the Pope had something on everyone. He didn't trust any of them. As Conclave begins again, the Cardinals experience the aftermath of a car bomb that goes off. Cardinal Tedesco gives a speech about his work as a missionary in various countries. The Cardinals look at each other and consider maybe he's choice. A vote begins and Federal receives a majority. Lawrence has to see if Tedesco is the proper choice, but something is discovered from his past. Sister Agnus helps Lawrence disclose the information to all the Cardinals. In the last fifteen minutes a secret comes out of left field to the viewer.
I loved this movie it has humor,politics, and the what if factor.
The Intruder Within (1981)
A Made For T.V. Movie That's Not That Bad.
Yes, this is an Alien rip off; no doubt about it. Alien came of in 1979 and it was a hit. So, yeah others are going to cash in on its success by making rip off. It was the same way when Star Wars came out. I remember seeing this on T. V. back in 1981, because I was 9. I was too young to go see Alien, so I was stoked when this film came out. Made for T. V. movies were somewhat bleak back then, but they did make some that were watchable. Another made for TV movie that came out the same year was Dark Night of the Scarecrow. They were both great and could put the fright into younger ones.
The intruder within was creepy back in the day, for 1981. Alien to place in Outerspace, The intruder within takes place in the vast ocean, both movies the crew drilling for some type of ore. The Intruder within starts with a bunch of roughnecks drilling for oil. The crew insists no oil is out this far, plus they have drilled so deep. The company, Zolfron, who sent them out there insists there is and supplies them with a Geologist. This geologist is there for more scientific reasons. When something gets aboard the rig, an alien creature of some kind, things start to go wrong. Plus, the geologist finds these so-called rocks or eggs of some kind. The eggs were protected by this creature, and accidently bites one of the crew. Things start to go downhill, those infected experience violent changes. This continues until one of the crew infected, gets a female crew member pregnant. This is where we finally see this alien being. It isn't until the last 10 minutes of the movie they show the creature. The three surviving crew members eventually kill this xenomorph. They are rescued the next day, but at the end on the rig you see bubbles start to form. I watched this again in 2024, I'm 53 and I still somewhat enjoyed it, but it's now less scary and more silly.
Quantum Leap (1989)
What If You Could Travel Back In Time and Change Someone's Life For The Better?
Quantum Leap is one of the best television shows that cam out in 1989-1993, a Sci-FY masterpiece from Donald P. Bellisaro. I remember when the series came out I was still in high school, and in the fall I was preparing to go to college at Wright State University, in Ohio. I didn't really get to watch many of the original episodes when they first aired. I was involved in sports, and community activities. The episodes I did see I, I loved. I decided to purchase the entire series through Amazon for 40 dollars brand new. Quantum Leap is a Sy-Fy series that stars Scott Bakula ( Sam Beckett) and Al Calavicci ( Dean Stockwell). Sam is a genius who holds several degrees, one of them is Physics. Al is a retired Navy Admiral who is is good friend. Sam is able to travel back in time trough Quantum Leaping. Sam is able to leap into other people find out who they are with the help of his only guide Al. Al appears in the form of a hologram, which Sam can only see and hear. Unless your a child of a certain age or an animal. The actors are excellent, and the chemistry is perfect in this series. What Sam does is leap back in time with Al, get more info on each and change their lives for the better. The series revolves around important issues such as people with disabilities, race, religion, and other social issues. I find the show amazing, and a classic. They're are episodes were Sam leaps into the opposite sex, and those are CLASSIC. I'm on the end of season 3 now, and I have only found 1 I haven't cared for. This series includes several top rated episodes. One is when Sam leaps into a vice cop, there he runs into Al's long lost love Beth. It's an extremely touching episode, where Al wants to intervene; and Sam has an episode like this also. Quantum Leap is a wonderful feel good series that will touch your heart. They don't make shows like this anymore.
Heat (1995)
An Epic Crime Drama That Will Have You Enthralled.
From the creator who bought you the top television Crime Drama of the 80's, Miami Vice, comes HEAT. Michael Mann goes all the way with a 3 hour long drama that is a high octane crime thriller. HEAT has to be one of the best crime dramas ever. It includes an all-star cast including heayweight , Robert Dr Niro, All Pacino, Ashley Judd and a very young Natalie Portman. It also includes a cameo appearance by rapper TONE-LOC.
HEAT centers around the lives of two men Vincent Hanna( Al Pacino) and Neil McCauley( Robert DeNiro). Vincent is an an excellent L. A. Detective who is high strung, and on his 3rd marriage. He is trying to keep this one together, but he is more married to his job than his wife, Justine( Diane Venora). He does care about the welfare of his stepdaughter, Lauren Gustafon( Natalie Portman). Justine and Lauren just want a normal life with Vincent. Neil McCauley who is the polar opposite of Vincent. McCauley is a professional thief who only does big scores. He along with his crew mainly targets money, and other monetary targets. McCauley has no ties, and can drop everything and split if the heat comes. McCauley is one who is tough and never forgets someone who screws up or goes after his seasoned crew.
When a big job gets blotched, it draws the attention of the L. A. P. D.. A job that involved an armored car heist and a screw up on McCauley crew. This get the attention of Vincent ,and he is now obsessed with catching McCauley. Vincent is willing to do anything to shut him down, even if that means risking it all. I love this movie it is a non-stop thrill ride through the streets of L. A..
Happy Birthday to Me (1981)
It's Virginia's Birthday, And The Surprise Will Be On You.
Happy Birthday To Me is a great slasher film from 1981. It is about a group of teenage friends that go to school at the Crawford Academy. They are known as the top 10 at this cliquish school. Virginia ( Melissa Sue Anderson) is apart of that elite group. She wasn't part of the group several years ago. She was always second Fiddle; and her father distant. When she and her mother were in a horrific car accident, she had to undergo extensive brain surgery. The accident took her mother's life, and she still suffers from psychological effects. She now sees a psychologist Dr. Faraday ( Glen Ford), and lives with her father Dr. Wainwright( Lawrence Dane).
Virginia lives in her father's lavish home, and her status has upgraded. She has made the top 10, and closer friends. Her life has changed, but still her father needs to be in her life more often. One member of the group fails to show, it's Beradette O' Hara ( Lesley Donaldson). They decide to leave, maybe she had other plans. When another student fails to show up for class, Virginia and Ann get suspicious. They decide to go to their friend's Alfred's (Jack Blum). Alfred is always and acts so creepy, he is the nerd of the group. When they get to Alfred's, they sneak in and find all this creepy stuff. When they reveal something hidden, they freak out. It is a replica of Bernadette's head, and it look's so real. They get caught by Alfred who explains his work. They're still leery of him, but leave.
Virginia learns that more of her friends have disappeared. It's her birthday, and she begins to have flashback, about her past trauma. She rushes to contact her doctor, and tells him she could be responsible for her missing friends. In order to calm her down he rushes over to the house. When she calms down she wants to get ready for her birthday, and hopes her father will be there.
When Virginia's dad comes home he walks into a nightmare, when he discovers blood in Virginia's bedroom. He looks up and notices a light on in the guest house. When he goes inside, he discovers all her friends, Dr. Faraday, and Mother. They are all at this birthday table brutally murdered. Then we see Virginia or is it Virginia coming out with a birthday cake. She is singing Happy Birthday To Me; and asks her father if he wants a piece. He is shocked and eventually stabbed.
This movie has one shocking twist at the end. It is also one slasher movie with some of the most bizarre killing scenes. I have to say this movie has one excellent twist, backstory, and one hell of an ending. This is a must see movie that is a classic.
Star Wars: The Bad Batch (2021)
The Bad Batch equals A Small Group Of Good Clones
I stated Watching The Bad Batch late in December of last year. I never heard of it until I became a Disney+ subscriber. Disney + is amazing, you can become a member-for a great price. I actually got Disney +, because of the Series, The Mandalorian. I discovered other excellent shows, including Star Wars spin offs.
The Bad Batch involves expermential clones, and takes place after the clone wars. The Clones get there name, because their memory chips failed to execute Order66. The group of 6 include Rex, Echo, Hunter, Tech, Crosshairs, and Wrecker. The Kaminos also built an unaltered female clone, named Omega( Michelle). The unaltered male as we know is Boba Fett. Each of these clones have different experimental abilities. Each with there're different skills are able to work together. There're mercenaries, that travel the galaxy when helping those in need and working against the Empire. I love this show and I'm 51. I'm a I'm also a Die Hard Star Wars fan. The show is amazing, just like the show Rebels. I'm on the second season there& will be a third and final season coming soon.
Paul (2011)
Paul: An Alien With Attitude and Style.
Two Sci-Fy geeks Graeme(Simon Pegg) and Clive( Nick Frost) are on their way back from a Comic-Con convention in Nevada. That night they will get an adventure of their dreams, when they meet Paul(Seth Rogen). Paul has been on Earth for over 60 years. Paul escapes that night when he discovers he has been held as a prisoner by The Man ( Sigourney Weaver). In an underground bunker as a test subject. When Greame and Clive who are from England me Paul they are dumbfounded. Paul will take them on an adventure of a lifetime across Nevada where they met some colorful characters. The three pick up a sheltered girl who really needs to cut loose.
On their road trip they are followed by three FBI agents, one turns out to be the good guy, Jason Bateman. The other is the girls crazy father, Gus ( David Koechner) from Krampus. Paul is a wild ride that people will enjoy and laugh throughout. The movie also includes several references from great sci-fi movies like Total Recall (1990), Close Encounters, Alien, E. T. and others. Paul also includes a voice cameo from Steven Spielberg. This is a funny movie that will put a smile on your face. Highly recommended!
Weekend at Bernie's (1989)
"It's The Weekend, What Could Possibly Go Wrong"?
I don't know about you, but back in the late 80's good comedies were lacking. In 1989, along comes Weekend At Bernie's, a movie that had me in stitches. The first time I watched this movie I couldn't stop laughing.
The movie is about two dedicated/ best friends, Larry Wilson (Andrew McCarthy) and Richard Parker( Jonathan Silverman) who work for Bernie Lomax( Terry Kiser). When Larry and Richard discover a discrepancy in a report, they report it to Bernie. They think this will give them some brownie points with the old boss. It involves someone within the company is cooking the books. When they show this to Bernie, he plays it off. He plays the I'm glad you came to me about this, and invites the two to his place in the Hamptons.
Quickly, Bernie calls Vito( Louis Giambalvo) and tells him the situation. Vito is a big mob boss, and no one can find out that Bernie is stealing money from is own company for the mob. So the plan is to bump Larry and Richard off in the Hampton's when they arrive by sending Vito's hitman Paulie ( Don Calfa). Vito tells Paulie to forget about the two dweebs, and kill Berie instead, because he's a liability and his screwing around with his wife.
When Bernie is at the Hampton's he is surprised to see Vito there. Bernie is shocked when Vito pulls out a syringe and shoot Bernie in the A$$ with it. He gives him a lethal dose of something. Vito dressed as a Priest leaves quickly back on the ferry passt Larry and Richard.
Larry and Richard arrive in Lomax's Weekend pad and wonder where their host is? At first they don't think anything off it. It's The Hampton's, people are out and about on the beach. When they find Lomax in his office they play it off as he's sleeping at first. Then reality hits, they are in shock they don't want to get the police involved, and then it gets worse. Hoards of people start to arrive. They just keep coming and coming, and no one seems to think anything of it. So the two come up with a plan to keep Bernie among the living. I have to say Terry Kiser's actions and expression are priceless, playing Bernie Lomax. The film is a riot, a dark comedy, and yes it did spin a sequel which I haven't seen.
The Client (1994)
" Because I Know Were The Proverbial Body Is."
The Client is a film by Joel Schumacher ( Flatliners 1990), based on a novel by John Grisham. When a young boy, Mark Sway( Late Brad Renfro) along with his brother Ricky (David Speck) witness a mob attorney's suicide deep in the Tennessee woods; they become targets. Jerome Clifford ( Walter Oikewicz), tells Mark that he knows where Senator Boyd Boyett's body is located. He knows if he is called to testify against Barry " The Blade Muldano, he's a a dead man. So when Mark escapes the car, Clifford eats a bullet. Mark call the police and they find Ricky in bad shape. This news gets back to Johnny Sulari, head of The Sulari crime family. He knows he can't trust his screw up of a nephew, Barry " The Blade", so he sends Gronke ( Kim Coates) to Memphis. He wants Gonke to see what Mark knows, and to put fear in him. At the hospital Gronke, with a scalpel to his throat is warned to keep quiet.
His brother now has seen something so shocking he has to be hospitalized, due to PTSD. In Memphis, Mark and his mother know they need help. The mob is involved, and now they are sending Rev. Roy Foltrigg. Foltrigg ( Tommy Lee Jones) is a federal prosecutor who wants Mark to tell all. Mark hires a lawyer for a dollar, Reggie Love ( Susan Sarandon) .
When Roy Foltrigg comes up from Louisiana, the pressure mounts. He is bound determined to get Mark to talk. Mark knows he can't unless a deal is made. The only person he can trust , is Reggie who is playing out of her league. It becomes a dangerous game of cat and mouse, til the very end. This film is suspenseful with great performances from Jones, and Sarandon. This also stars William H. Macy, Anthony Edwards ( E. R.). A high Octane thriller that is a must watch.
Next of Kin (1989)
A Great Revenge Tale, But A Poor Depiction Of People Of Eastern Kentucky.
This film was filmed mostly in Chicago, and tiny bit in Perry County, KY. The film is good, and I will overlook the stereotypes. In a nutshell, the film is about revenge, southern style.
Truman Gates ( Patrick Swayze) a Chicago police officer, from Hazard, KY. He is one of three brothers who made it out of Eastern Kentucky, to become a Chicago police detective. His youngest brother, Gerald Gates ( Bill Paxton) works as truck driver; but despises Chicago. He wants to go back as soon as he can. One night while making a delivery, Gerald is a target of a mob hit. Joey Rosselini( Adam Baldwin) and Lawrence Isabella ( Ben Stiller) take Gerald in the trailer and work him over. Lawerence, doesn't know what is about to happen. Joey taunts, beats and kills Gerald.
When Truman is called in he has a pretty good idea who is responsible. He along with his wife travel by train back to Kentucky for the funeral. This is when the family decides something needs to be done. Briar Gates ( Liam Neeson), who I believe is the oldest. He has a talk with Truman, Briar is the hot headed one. The family has a meeting, and they need to find Gerald's killer. The whole eye for an eye philosophy.
So Briar packs up and heads to Chicago, and makes his presence known. He discovers, that a Sicilian mob family is responsible. He tells Truman, and Truman says he needs more evidence before an arrest is made. In Fact, Truman knows that Joey Rossellini ( Adam Baldwin) was the trigger man. Joey is just trouble, and is very jealous of Lawrence. The son of John Isabella ( Andras Katsulas) from his first marriage. Joey kills Lawrence, and blames it on Briar Gates. This news crushes John, and now Briar is a target. Truman makes it known if they mess with his brother they have to answer to him. Briar eventually gets killed, and this news gets back to the Gates family.
Some of the family come to Chicago, and now a showdown takes place at a cemetery. The ending is a shocker, but it made the movie.
The only problem I had with this film is the stereotype of people from Eastern Kentucky. My mom is from there, and she doesn't talk with an accent, she's educated, and her side of family is far from poor. I hate when people call them the H word, they don't like it. I love my mom's side of the family, and I have been to parts that are poor. A director should never classify all people from Eastern Kentucky as poor. People are poor everywhere, you just don't hear it. I'm a native Ohioan and feel this movie deserved an 8, but negative stereotypes can kill a movie.
Apt Pupil (1998)
" Careful Son You're Playing With Fire."
Apt Pupil is a good psychological thriller, based on a Stephen King short story. It is directed by Bryan Singer ( Usual Suspects, X-Men). The movie takes place in the mid 80's, in a fictional California town.
A bright 16 year old honor student Todd Bowden ( Late Brad Renfro) excels in every subject, especially history. When his History class concludes on the subject of the Holocaust; he continues his interest at the local library. He is really fascinated with it. While he is doing his research, he comes across a photo his recognizes. It is an old photo of his current neighbor, Mr. Denker( Ian McKellan). His real name is Kurt Dussander. An ex- NAZI war criminal who hides his true identity even from Todd's own family.
One day, Todd comes over to visit Mr. Denker. He tells him, he knows who he really is ; and makes a deal with him. He will keep his silence, if Denker tells him more stories of the Holocaust. Todd begins to spend a lot of time with Denker, and less time with his school work/ friends. It seems the more time he spends the more his attitude changes. His grades begin to slip and his best friend Joey ( Joshua Jackson) begins to question Todd's sanity.
What Todd doesn't know is that he has stated a dangerous psychological game, with Mr. Denker. Todd believes he has the upper hand with Denker, wrong. They are both playing with each other's mind; and the longer it continues the more dangerous it becomes.
This movie is on of the better ones based on a Stephen King work. I liked it, because McKellen is outstanding, but the ending could have been better. This also stars, Michael Bryne ( Indy- Last Crusade).
Flash Gordon (1980)
A Star Quarterback For The Jets, Saves The Universe from Certain Destruction.
This is a great film and I wouldn't classify it as a B movie either. I first saw this when I was 7 or 8 ; and loved it. I still do and bought it for 4 dollars, and it does bring back a lot of memories. Flash Gordon is a movie with glamorous costumes and cools sets. The movie is about an evil emperor who is hellbent on destroying the Earth.
Flash Gordon( Sam J. Jones) and a travel agent, Dale ( Melody Anderson) are on a simple flight. When Ming the Merciless ( Max von Sydow), creates a natural disaster which knocks the moon out of obit. It is headed for Earth, while Flash and Dale are on the plane, they have to land it. When they do, they are Skyjacked in a rocket by a mad scientist, played by Topol. They are headed to the planet Mongo, where they will meet Ming. Once there Flash and Dale must gain allies and defeat Ming to save Earth.
This is a good movie, it is also one with Timothy Dalton in it as Prince Barin. It has great characters, creatures, and cool FX for a low budget movie.
Flatliners (1990)
Some Lines Should Never Be Crossed
When 5 of the top medical students get together, Nelson ( Kiefer Sutherland) has an idea. He wants to partake in a dangerous experiment to explore the great beyond, by Flatlining. He needs the support of his friends and fellow medical students, Rachael ( Julia Roberts), Steckle ( Oliver Platt), Labracco ( Kevin Bacon ), and Joe Hurley ( William Baldwin). The only one that just observes is Steckle, he doesn't flatline.
When it is done, it happens on a very secluded place on campus, and Nelson goes first. He does have an experience, but thinks nothing of it. What he later finds out is his past sin has come to haunt him physically. He keeps this to himself while letting others Joe, Labraccio, and Rachael go. When it starts to get very physically with him and Billy Mahoney( Rudoy) he has to confess. All of them have experiences, Joe brings his sin of recording girls w/o their knowledge, Labraccio a girl he teased Winnie Hicks ( Kim Scott ), and Rachael the guilt she has about witnessing her father's drug/ suicide after Vietnam. In order to make things level again Joe losses his girlfriend, Labraccio makes up with Winnie, and Rachael experiences a toughing moment with her father in the spiritual way, but Nelson must make amends the only way he can. He tries to trade places with Billy Mahoney, he flatlines for 9 minutes but he makes amends and his friends save his life.
This is a great and chilling movie I saw at the theater 3 times with friends. It's about the consequences we experience. When it starts to destroy other peoples lives, we never think it will come back to haunt us. Highly Recommended, film!
Blade Runner (1982)
A Dangerous And Futuristic Look At A Dystopian Los Angeles, 2019.
Blade Runner is a film that is by Ridley Scott ( Alien), that came out in 1982. This movie has stunning visuals, and a great story line. Their are about 4 different versions of the movie. The version I like the best is the one, Deckard ( Harrison Ford), and his mini-narrative. His thoughts, and characters background. He doesn't talk throughout the movie, but his narrative explains it more.
This is the director's Cut, which is really good. I didn't see this movie until I was in my 20's. I was blown away by the opening scene. The story is about Synthetic Humans that were created to work on off-word colonies. They were designed with a 4 year life span. This was a fail safe measure, encase they decided to turn on their creator. They are also referred as Replicates or Skin-Jobs, and are very unpredictable. When 4 Replicates escape from an off -world colonies an alert goes out to the enforcers or BLADE RUNNERS. They are looking for two males and two females. The leader is Roy Batty ( Late Rudgar Hauer), Leon ( Brion James ), Pris ( Daryl Hannah), and Zhora ( Joanna Cassidy). They are headed back to Earth to seek a longer life span. They want to find Tyrell ( James Turkel), and are willing to do anything or stop anybody from getting in their way. Leon is the most dangerous, when he was interviewed, he almost kills is interviewer ( Mark Arnold).
Deckard is a burnt out cop/Blade Runner who is the best. He is called back to track down the 4 and kill them. He works alongside Gaff ( Edward James Olmos). When Deckard is called by The Tyrell Cor. To interview Tyrell's assistant Racheal. He is shocked because she is young and gorgeous. It takes him longer, but Deckard discovers she is a replicaint. Tyrell says she is the best work he has created, which took Deckard longer to find out. She believe she is human, but Deckard tells her it's all fake memories. They begin a relationship and knows he has to protect her from other Blade Runners, especially his boss who knows what she is. Deckard begins to eliminate the replicants, but two remain Pris and Batty. They are very dangerous and find Sebastian. He also works with Tyrell, and is brilliant. Sebastian doesn't realize he is being played, they just friend him til they can get to Tyrell. When Batty meets Tyrell, he kills him and Sebastian. The reason he would not give into his demands of a longer lifespan.
Deckard is called along with Gaff to investigate. He realizes he must eliminate the last 2. In order to keep Rachael safe he keeps her at his place until he returns. His plan is to leave with her after the job is done. He finds Batty and Pris, Pris almost kills him, but he is able to escape then she blows a socket. So Roy is the last, but he doesn't give up. It is a back and fourth game with the two. Batty knows his time is about up, and when a mishap happens he save Deckard from certain death. The two look at each other with Batty releasing a Dove, then he dies.
When Deckard returns he realizes Gaff has been in is apartment, because he leaves clues( origami). When he fears the worst, he runs over to check on Rachael, she is still alive. The two leave fearing what would happen if he stayed. This is a great film which I have always wondered if Deckard was a Repliciant or not. It does make U wonder, but this movie is a must see.
All the Right Moves (1983)
Winning Is The Only Way Out!
Stefan Djordjevic ( Tom Cruise), Is a very talented defensive back for the Ampipe Bulldogs, in western Pennsylvania. His talent doesn't only show on the field, but off. He carries a solid B average in his studies. The problem is this will not get him a scholarship to a good engineering school. He needs that athletic scholarship, but his attitude is a problem. His coach, Nickerson( Craig T Nelson), wants a winning season so he can get that big college coaching job. Stefan wants to make something of himself, and doesn't want to be stuck working in a steel mill like is father, and brother Greg ( Gary Graham). His friend Brian, ( Christopher Penn), gets a full ride to University of Southern California, but something unexpected blows his chances. Vinnie Salvucci ( Paul Carafotes), just doesn't get much playing time. When he does, it's only as a back-up. Stefan's girlfriend, Lisa ( Lea Thompson) wants out too, she has ambitions just like he does. . She wants to study music, but the only scholarships that are offered are to football players.
When the big game comes between Ampipe and the third ranked team in the state. Stefan and Nickerson see this as an opportunity. The game goes down to the wire, but a costly fumble cost Ampipe the game. In the locker room, Vinnie who fumbled, is crying. He knows the winning the game was on his shoulders. When Nickerson comes in, he balls Vinnie out. Stefan Steps in and a shouting match ensues. This cost Stefan, and he his tossed off the team. The coach tells him he can't ride the bus back, and to ride back with the cheerleaders. He hitches a ride with Bosko ( James A Baffico) and three others. Bosko who has lived in Ampipe his whole life decides to stop at the coaches house. Stefan gets out, and decides to toss trash on his yard. The others go way too far and trash Nickerson's house.
Stefan confronts Nickerson, about what happened. He had no idea it would go as far as it did. Lisa even tries to help, by talking to his wife. Stefan knows he screwed up, and discovers his brother just got laid off. Later that night as he is leaving; he apologizes to Nickerson's wife when they are having dinner. The coach confronts him outside, and words are exchanged. Stephan talks about where most of the other on the team are going; and bringing up the fact that Nickerson landed that great coaching job. Stephan will be stuck in Ampipe working at the mill.
The next day after working at the mill, Stephan sees his girlfriend; and notices Nickerson there. Lisa tells him that Nickerson is offering him a full scholarship to Cal-Poly. Stefan will be able to embark on a great future.
I like this movie and I'm not a Tom Cruise fan. The main reason I like the movie is it's all about sports, and one I love football. I was a varsity athlete and I've been there. You do all you can to be the best. A coach can make you or break you, making all the right moves is what it takes. This is a good film, but it falls short compared to Remember the Titans.
Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015)
It's Been 30 Years Since ROTJ, Could There Be Hope For The Rebellion Against The New Order.
I see a lot of negative reviews about this movie; some say why did they even bother, the Empire was defeated. Well, like in every battle a new power will take it's place. In fact, true Star Wars fans were screaming sequels since the end of Return of the Jedi. Then the not so hot prequels come out, and almost destroy the saga. If you didn't find anything positive about The Force Awakens; then your mind was made up before the movie started. This is the first sequel since Disney took over the saga. The Force Awakens brings new cast members in such as Daisy
Ridley( Rey), Adam Driver( Ren), Oscar Issacs( Poe) and John Boydega( Finn). These new characters, mix with so of the original cast of Star Wars, Harrison Ford( Han), Mark Hamill( Luke), Carrie Fisher ( Leia) and Anthony Daniels (3P0)/ Kenny Baker(R2).
The film is about the finding the location of Luke Skywalker. Who went into exile after training a young Jedi that turned on him. The problem is completing the map, a small piece is hidden in a BB-8 model. The problem is the New Order also learns this and is after it. In order, to complete the map the Resistance fighters, must stop the New Order who is also in pursuit. To find the whereabouts of Luke Skywalker, the Resistance must deliver this piece to the Resistance headquarters on D'Qar. Once there the piece of the map will be placed in map R2 has. This will complete the map and verify Luke Skywalker's location.
I enjoyed this film, not only does it has a major shocker in it. It also keep a beloved saga alive for those of us, who were the first to see the original in 1977.
Contagion (2011)
In 2011 It Was A What If? In 2020 It Became Reality.
I saw this opening weekend at the theater, and remember walking out thinking what if something like this did happen, would we be prepared and if not what would happen. This movie is eye opening, and terrifying. It is a film by Steven Soderbergh, that will wake you up to mass pandemics.
The movie begins on day 2 of the pandemic, after Beth Emhoff( Gwyneth Paltrow) returns from Hong Kong, China. She is so sick she ends up in the hospital in Minneapolis, MN. Despite their efforts they are unable to save her, her husband, Mitch( Matt Damon) can't believe it. He not only looses his wife, but also is stepson. This sets off a chain reaction, that gets the attention of the CDC in Atlanta. This virus is a highly contagious that transmits via respiratory droplets, and inanimate objects, dishes, cell phones, chairs, e.t.c.. The name given to this virus is MEA-1. When the CDC realizes they have a mass pandemic, they need to find the original carrier.
In Contagion, you see people in panic, hospitals overwhelmed, complete shutdowns, states closing boarders, and finally a vaccine. It is so similar to what is going on now it is scary. When the movie comes to a close, there's a flashback to DAY- 1 of the pandemic. A company in China is clearing the rain forest that is a bat habitat. One bat, finds shelter in a pig farm. The bat drops a piece of infected banana that a pig eats. That pig is taken to the casino in Hong Kong. It is prepared by a chef that lack good hand hygiene. The virus is then transmitted from him to Beth via handshake, setting off the deadly virus.
This is a great film with an excellent cast, Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Laurence Fishburne, Jude Law, and a Cameo appearance of CNN's Dr. Gupta. Once you see this movie you will never forget it, a must see for everyone.
Primal Fear (1996)
Miscarriage Of Justice.
It's been awhile since I have seen this film, and it gets better each time. The movie starts out when an altar boy is arrested for the murder of a Chicago Archbishop. When a high profile attorney, Martin Vale( Richard Gere) sees the news footage and visits him in jail. Martin sees this a huge career move and decides to represent him Pro Bono. Aaron decides to move from Kentucky to Chicago to make a fresh start. He has a severe studder, and Vail believes his story.
The investigation turns up a VHS tape that uncovers the Archbishop's secret , he had a thing for pornography. Including Aaron, Aaron's roommate, and Linda( Aaron's girlfriend). When this is found Vail believes if he did do it, the court would have sympathy. Due to the trauma Aaron has gone through, Martin find's psychiatrist to examine him. Dr. Molly Arrington ( Frances McDormand) gets to know Aaron a little bit better than Martin. While she is talking to him, he becomes a different person. He calls himself Roy, no studder, but very violent. Molly, believing he suffers from dissociative Identity disorder. This is be due to the trauma of sexual abuse, and notifies Vail right away. Vail, seeing Aaron's transformation realizes it's too late to change his plea.
The case still goes ahead with Vail putting Aaron on the stand. When Aaron gets crossed examined by Janet( Laua Linney). She introduces evidence that was hidden, when she continues harshly Aaron, becomes Roy. His rage is so powerful, he attacks four courthouse officials & removed from court. The judge dismisses the jury, and rules on the case. Aaron Sampler, isn't guilty by reason of insanity; thus sending him to a maximum security mental hospital.
When Vail visits Aaron in his cell, he claims he has no memory of what happened. Vail starts to leave, and Aaron tells Vail info he couldn't possibly know during his spells. Vail is shocked, he turns around seeing Aaron. Aaron looks at him, and explains there never was an Aaron.
A terrific movie I saw up in Ohio, in the 90's. I believe this was the first film I saw with Edward Norton. Norton had it down pat, what a performance. An excellent movie with a great cast-A MUST SEE.
Sleepy Hollow (1999)
You'll Lose Your Head Over This Classic Tale!
One of the few Tim Burton films I have enjoyed, since 1989's Batman. It's an amazing film, about one of my favorite classic tales. Sleepy Hollow tales place in the turn of the century New York City, 1899. Ichabod Crane ( Johnny Depp), is really ahead of his time. He is a New York City Detective who uses the latest investigative tools. He is summons to upstate New York to investigate 3 unusual murders, in the town of Sleepy Hollow. The victims all have been beheaded, and have a wealthy background. The locals believe they were all beheaded by a Hessian Mercenary from the Revolutionary War, ( Christopher Walken). Ichabod starts his investigation and doesn't believe the tale. One night seeing makes him believe, when the stable hand is murdered.
Some believe the horseman seeks revenge for his murder, thus taking revenge on those that stole his head. While others believe it is the towns buried secrets involving the towns elders that have woken the horseman. He only seeks revenge on those responsible, including most of the wealthy.
Sleepy Hollow is done well, in that gothic Tim Burton style. The movie has it all, comedy, scares, and a side romance with Ichabod and Katrina Van Tassel( Christina Ricci). This movie also includes a cast of well known actors, Christopher Lee, Ian McDermid, Casper Van Dien, and Jeffery Jones. I highly recommend this movie to anyone, a classic from the 90's.
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)
One Of The Weakest Indy Films, But Still Enjoyable To Watch.
If this film came out sooner, it probably would have been a hit. To wait almost 20 yrs., for a fourth installment; a huge mistake. This is one of my least favorite films in the Indy saga. Most of the Cast is new, except Ford and Allen. I am not a Shia La Beouf fan, and his character just wasn't necessary. The plot is O. K., taking place in the 50's during the Height of The Cold War.
Indy gets involved with a Russian Agent, Irina Spalko ( Cate Blanchett). He is accused of being a communist, and is questioned. He is mostly teaching these days. One Day he finds that his job is in jeopardy. He goes and takes time off and meets Mutt ( Shia La Beouf), who tells Indy his friend Oxley ( Late John Hurt) has disappeared in Peru, looking for the Skull of Akator. Mutt and Indy team up, to find Oxley and travel to Peru, to find the Skull Of Akator. Like every Indiana Jones film, there is the booby trapped tombs, and secret passages. The skull is said to hold incredible power that can have a debilitating effect on people if they stare at it to long. Irina Spalko wants it, because it can give her incredible power to rule the world. Once Indy arrives at the camp, he finds Marion( Karen Allen), Oxley, and discovers Mutt is his son. When He discovers Spalko is there, the two battle for the skull. In the end, they discover a hidden cave of crystal skeletons. When the Crystal Skulls are all together, Spalko believe she will have total control. Instead it destroys her, and her ultimate goal of power. In the end, Indy gets his job back, marries Marries Marion, and the adventure will continue in 2022.
Sphere (1998)
I Never Said Anything About A Plane Crash.
A team of experts are called in to investigate a spacecraft at the bottom of the ocean. The team includes a Marine Biologist, Dr. Beth Halperin ( Sharon Stone), Mathematician- Harry Adams ( Samuel L. Jackson), Astrophysicist- Dr. Ted Fielding ( Liev Scrieber), Psychologist - Dr. Norman Goodman; and. U. S. Navy Captain- Harold Barnes ( Peter Coyote). This spacecraft is 300 yrs. Old, but conflicts arise on the age. Including is it from the past or future?
Once they're assembled it is time to descend below the surface. While going to the bottom they notice how huge the craft is. Once they are below in their underwater habitat. They all go to investigate this unusual type of spacecraft When they get there they begin to wonder if this craft is from the past or the future? It is a high-tech craft, but begin to believe it is from the future. On their investigation they observe a perfect sphere, they're all amazed. When they return to their habitat, Barnes gets a message from the top. A cyclone is on the way and they will be leaving in one hour.
Harry tells Norman he has to get inside the sphere, but Norman brushes it off as talk. Harry wants to know what's inside, so without telling anyone goes to investigate. The plan to return to the surface is ruined, because Norman didn't tell Barnes. They're now unable to go back to the surface, and they have to find Harry. Norman tells Barnes he will find Harry, because he knows where he is. Harry does enter the sphere, and is found unconscious by Norman. After finding out Harry goes into the sphere this prompts two other crew member to do the same thing. Once they go into the sphere it has an effect on each of them. Harry who was first- has a phobia of squid, Norman's phobia jellyfish; and Beth suicidal tendencies. Once this happens these phobia are able to manifest into reality. This causes unfortunate accidents and some crewmembers perish. The crew begin to become paranoid of each other, the remaining crew has to find a way to escape.
In order to survive three crew members decide to escape in the mini-sub. They are Norman, Beth, and Harry. When the three are inside the sub, someone's manifestation begin. They begin to panic and need to get their heads clear if they are going to survive. They have a limited time, because Beth armed the destruction system to the habit. When they finally clear their heads, they are able to escape just in the nick of time. As soon as they are close to the surface, the habit explodes.
When they arrive to the surface they will be briefed on what happened. They must stick with a story they all agree on. Due to the destruction and loss of lives they decide to forget. That is the story they will stick to when top brass gets there. They all decide to forget what happened. Sphere is a different kind of Sy-Fy film. It is deep and one that isn't predictable, a great story and the cast is solid.
Eraser (1996)
Smile, You've Just Been Erased!
John Kruger ( Arnold Schwarzenegger) is a U.S. Marshall who is the best, he is tops in the Witness Protection Program. On one of his assignments he tracks down Jonny( Robert Pastori). Jonny is a target, because he ratted out a top mob boss. When he is found, Kruger comes to his aid, takes out the Mob enforcers, and makes it look like Jonny was taken care of. Kruger takes pictures of the scene, erases his identity , and gives a fake story to the press. Jonny is now part of the witness protection program. He tells Kruger if he ever needs a favor, all he has to do is ask. Later that night Kruger reports back to his boss Beller ( James Coburn), who gives him a new case.
This new assignment came straight from an employee who is undercover for the FBI. The assignment is to protect Lee( Vanessa Williams) who works for Cyrez Corporation. Cyrez is a business that specializes in weapons manufacturing. When Lee finds out they are making a new weapon, she starts working for the FBI. This weapon fires ammunition through an electronic pulse., eliminating the target. One day, Lee goes into the Cyrez vault to copy the blueprints on to a disk. When she starts out of the vault , Donahue( James Cromwell) is right there. She is caught red handed, and he finds out who she's working for. When he finds out, he offs himself. Lee is shocked but she has a copy and escapes with the help of the Feds. She is now in extreme danger, and knows it. That night at here home, with her boyfriend everything seems fine, until Kruger shows up. As soon a she opens the door, Kruger saves her from being killed. He realizes he needs to put her into the Witness Protection Program. At first he doesn't know how they were able to tract Lee down so fast until he starts working with DeGuerin ( James Caan).
Deguerin also works for the FBI, and is with Kruger when they place Lee in an undisclosed location. Kruger is smart he tells Lee not to trust anybody, giving her secret code words, beeper, ETC. He suspects Deguerin, but doesn't find out for sure until he is drug later that day. Deguerin is a traitor who is working with the Russians in a major arms deal involving the Electromagnet Pulse or ( EM) weapon. Kruger has to notify Beller about Deguerin, and his plan. Beller then tells him those weapons are leaving the Baltimore docks the next day. Kruger now has to come up with a plan. Kruger along with Lee go and find Jonny. They tell him what is going on, and when the deal is going down. Since Jonny's cousin owns those docks, he tells Kruger I will get them in on the plan. The next night the shipment is getting ready for departure. Kruger must protect lee; and make sure to guns never leave the docks bound for Russia.
In Conclusion, this movie is awesome. It has a lot of action and the cast is great. The ending is something I didn't see coming, and makes this movie all the better.
Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
Rey Finds Her True Identity, The Rise Of Skywalker.
This is the best of all the sequels, but I liked them all. I knew I would find haters of this movie, but they had their minds made up. I have been a true Star Wars fan, since I was five. I was one of the lucky ones to see the original Star Wars- A New Hope at the theater. I was hooked from then on, but didn't care that much for the pre-quels. The reason too much CGI and some of the acting.
In Rise of Skywalker, we learn that the Emperor Palpatine (Ian MacDermid) didn't perish in Return of the Jedi. He is alive an well on the Sith planet of Exegol. According to the the Jedi/Sith, there are only three Sith Wayfinders. Kylo Ren( Adam Driver) find one that leads him to Palpatine. The Emperor tells Kylo that he has created The Final Order. It is a massive number of Star Destroyers. This will make the New Order indestructible if not stopped. The Emperor is an evil puppet master, and Kylo is the puppet.
Finn (Boydega), Poe( Oscar Isaacs),Chewy, and 3P0( A. Daniels) return with valuable information. There is a spy aboard the 1st order. Rey( Daisy Ridley), is continuing her training as a Jedi, with help from Leia( Late Carrie Fisher). Rey discovers a note left by Luke Skywalker( Mark Hamill). This note tells Rey about the location of a second Wayfinder. The group is off to the planet Pasaana, their they notice the people celebrating a festival that happens once every 42 yrs. The planet is much like Tatoonie, arid. They find a major clue on a knife, but they need a translator, and they must find one on Kijimi. There they are able to use 3P0 memory, via a droidsmith. This erases 3P0's memory, he is now programed to read the Sith language. While there they meet a bounty hunter, Zori Bliss( Keri Russell). Also a new character is introducted in the film, Janna(Naomi Ackie). She is an ex-Stormtrooper who is willing to fight against the first order.
While on Kijimi, they find General Hux( Gleeson), who tells them he is the spy. He knows the location of the second wayfinder on the moon in the Endor system. Rey goes there and discovers it, and comes face to face with Kylo Ren. They have a lightsaber duel, but Rey feels something through the force. It is about Leia and her demise. She leaves and Ren is there alone, but not for long. Han( Ford) appears via force ghost and talks to Ben( Kylo), there Kylo finally has an emotion moment. There on the moon, he senses Leia's death and goes to Acho-To. From this moment on Kylo becomes Ben Solo and begins to embrace the light side. Ren is told by Luke she must confront Palpatine one last time.
She travels to Exegol and there she meets The Emperor. He tells her the truth about her family, she is related to a Palpatine. She will never turn to the darkside, no matter what. While there she discovers Ben is joined in defeating the Emperor. While a lightsaber duel ensues, Rey get mortally injured. Like on Endor he is able to heal her with is Jedi powers, but he sacrifice's himself. He heals her so she can defeat the Emperor. While this battle takes place another is raging with the Final Order. Rey is able to defeat the Emperor, and Alliance is victorious over the Final Order.
In Conclusion, Rey travels to Tatoonie and buries Luke and Leia's lightsaber's. In the distance she sees luke and Leia, via the force. She smiles, and leaves with a big turn turns on her new lightsaber, which is yellow.
This is such and exciting conclusion to an excellent series. They say this is the final Star Wars, but I have my doubts.
Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi (2017)
Really! Nobody Could Find Anything Positive To Say About This Film?
I can't believe all the negative reviews about this film. Yes, I agree it is the weakness of the sequels; but it wasn't a bomb. I believe those giving The Last Jedi terrible reviews had their minds made up, before seeing the movie.
The Last Jedi takes place right after The Force Awakens. Star Killer base is no more, and Rey meets Luke on Acho-To. She begins her training with Luke, and while training communicates via The force with Kylo-Ren. Kylo tells her why he turned to the dark side, and confuses Rey. It's all about Luke, but who should she believe, Luke or Kylo. Rey can feel the good side of the force in Ren, but now she is suspicious of Luke until he can explain what happened. This is a dangerous time for Rey, because she can be temped to join the dark side. So Luke needs to tell her what really happened, and he does. Meanwhile, The Resistance has to prepare for an attack from The First Order. This takes them to the Planet Crait. Crait, is an where an old Resistance Base used to be. A battle ensues, where The Resistance has to use old fighters against the First Order. They are so old parts come of of them, but there isn't any other way.
When Kylo Ren arrives, he has a duel with Skywalker. Skywalker battles him via the force, he appears to be there, but he is actually back on Acho-to. Afterward, when he is proven his worth he becomes a force ghost. Now, his legacy will carry on though Rey.
This film isn't that bad, and I'm a die-hard Star Wars fan. I felt it had great scenery, the casino a major plus. The planet Crait, a salt like planet and the crystal wolves very cool. You will like this movie more if you go in with an open mind, and please don't compare it with the originals.
Golden Years (1991)
Just Like Old Times, Huh!
Wow! This movie is amazing, so I'm boggled by the negative reviews. It is far from being dull at all. It is a fountain of youth story with a mix of The X-Files suspense. I missed it the first time it appeared on T.V., because I was attending college. In a nutshell Golden Years is about an elderly janitor, Harlan Williams( Keith Szarabajka)who works in a top secret laboratory. Harlan is on the brink of losing his job due to his eyes. The lab has several top scientist working on a top secret chemical, that has rejuvenating properties. The chemical is very unstable, and volatile. The next day Harlan reports to work, he's cleaning near the lab; and an explosion happens. He has been exposed, but not directly.
Gina( Frances Sternhangan), his wife gets a knock at the door. She is meet by a government agent, Terry Spawn( Felicity Huffman) and Gen. Louis Crewes( Ed Lauter). She is taken to the hospital, told about his condition, and rushes to his side. The other victim who was exposed at the lab doesn't make it. The Lab that Harlan works at, needs to keep it secret so they call in a fixer, from "THE SHOP" . Andrews( R.D. Call) is a secret operative that will do anything to get what he wants. He gets his info, then cleans the mess.
When Harlan returns home, Gina starts to notice that he is becoming younger. She becomes sad due to this, and as time goes by he keeps getting younger. The film is a cat and mouse game, with Terry and Gen. Crewes protecting Harlan. The Shop; and The Lab want Harlan erased, and will do anything to keep their little project from becoming public knowledge.
The Golden Years is an exciting film, that many never heard of. I received this movie in a Stephen King Trilogy along with The Langoliers and The Stand. All three are excellent films and the price is perfect. A great trilogy for any Stephen King fan.