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Reviews
Terrifier (2016)
Obviously not my horror sensation...
But amongst all the dull and self indulgent duds they call horror these days, I find myself more and more intrigued by this franchise. So as I don't do things in order, I've watched part 2 first, and hated it so much, I hesitated a long time before watching part 1. And now that I finally did, I would give it two things: better acting and great tension during some of the key moments. Apart from that, I still thought that the characters acted stupidly throughout and the chase scenes got tedious near the end. Also, I honestly regretted Victoria didn't survive the way all final girls do, but instead was turned into a freak show who takes as much pleasure as Art killing and dismembering people. She really put a fair fight and deserved to come out on top of it. Fortunately for us, we'll have her replacement in the next movies, but the feeling of having an interesting character thrown under a bus for the sake of shock, remains... The gore isn't as heavy handed and shocking as part. 2 as well, which I appreciated more, because it helped make those scenes more believable and be invested in what was shown onscreen. Of course the movie is still a bad exemple on how to make a good slasher movie, with the aforementioned flaws, but at least it's one of the rarest current horror movies that did not make me feel like I was wasting my time watching it. And obviously, the guy who plays Art does a great job portraying it. I think it's a movie everyone (who isn't too squeamish) should watch just to make up their own mind about it and the hype it got over the years.
Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2 (2000)
People who preferred the first movie...
Hated this one, and from where I stand, it's not a guarantee of pertinence. I can't stand the original movie, with its annoying characters and stupid script, it is one of the most overrated horror films in cinema history. « Book of shadows » has more appeal, a story in which events of the first installment are established in a « movie inside a movie » kind of way, which I thought got you into the plot right away. The characters are also far less irritating, because they clearly have issues and it helped sympathize with them and ease into the whodunnit aspect more. The acting wasn't too over the top either, and the way hillbillies were portrayed fitted the narrative. The ending, which I found frustrating when I was seventeen, is in fact very satisfying in a creepy and ironic way. She really got them good... The soundtrack compilation is better than the first movie's as well. It has decent tracks but is missing other bests like « disposable teens », « dirge », « I'm your doggy » and « haunted ». Also, how old are they supposed to be? I always wondered... It's a decent flick, a product of its time but also original enough to be enjoyed years later, without making you cringe like the original and reboot does.
Lost (2004)
The show that redefined « must-see-TV »?
It's my first time watching the whole series, and it took me a month to do so. Back when it was airing on TV, my heart wasn't completely in it, I thought it was boring and I had other things to do, and more pressing shows to watch anyway. So I caught a couple of episodes here and there, and watched most of season 1, 2A and 3 on borrowed DVDS. I won't lie, it's more of a sophisticated nighttime soap than the thought provoking show about the mysteries of life (and death) it wants to be. And I struggled through most of season 4, which is probably my least favorite, and was often bored during the flashbacks in those early seasons episodes. But I stuck around, and I'm glad I did because it isn't as obscure as some (whom I suspect half of them to be Kate & Sawyer shippers, who probably had a stroke watching the series finale) made it out to be... The island is clearly an in-between world LOST in time and space, where the living and the dead can interact, I get that. But I still wished the series showed glimpses of the survivors lives, after they left the island for good... That being said, like most fans apparently, I enjoyed season 5 the most and the fact that the leads became some kind of fallen angels, having unfinished business on « earth » in season 6, before going to the other side, the moment the true hero of the story, Jack, was finally ready to move on (now I understand the striking resemblance between him and his « son »). It's a very beautiful and logical ending (though a little too similar to the « Sixth Sense » twist?), but I can't say I liked all the characters either, and was surprised some of them even got to Heaven at the end. But I guess they had their own fan base too... Also, how come everyone could see Jacob at one point, if they weren't dead yet? Maybe they had an explanation for that too, but it probably got lost somewhere when I was trying to follow some of those tedious episodes, that are unfortunately the most off putting trait of the Lost series. All in all it's a decent show, only one that must be watched continuously (and with an open mind) to be enjoyed and understood. Good binge watching everyone.
How to Get Away with Murder: Stay (2020)
Who falls for that third rate sentimentalism?
Oh yeah, Americans do apparently... Where do I start? They've already lost me after the whole incest nonsense, which proved to be pointless in this episode in particular, because Frank could've killed the governor for simply giving the order to murder his estranged mother. Why all the schlock, to have us pity Sam? Even that was for nothing, because he can't be forgiven for things his own wife did... And as far as Annalise winning her trial with that piss poor closing argument, I think writers were simply too busy playing the victim card on her to acknowledge that she was indeed guilty of all charges. On different degrees of course, because it's her little lap dogs who's done the deeds each time. But she was the one who gave the orders, so she alongside the students, should've gone to jail. Or have spent the rest of her life being charged in court. I know she probably wouldn't be the heroine of a show called « How to Get Away with Murder » otherwise, but what does being all those things, have to do with her being an accessory to murder(s)? And why did everyone got on Gabriel's case at one point this season? Each time it gave me an impression of pots calling the kettle black, especially when Olivier accused him of lying and creating drama. Oliver is the most annoying HTGAWM character, and he as well should've been prosecuted for all the things the FBI agent had against him, so him accusing Gabriel of things he does himself on a regular basis, made me despise that little whiny wimp even more. The only sense of justice we'd get out of this final, is seeing some of these awful characters getting shot to death (Frank especially, what a waste of space that guy is...). And others being sent to prison for snitching on each other. But even that wasn't satisfying enough, because it was done in an emotionally manipulative way. And that the overall course of the trial, leading to that particular part of the story, shed a light on the amateurism of all parties involved. To be perfectly honest, I hated the closing scene. The way current shows use last minute flash forwards to end their final episodes with now, is lazy. « Six Feet Under » did it first, and back then it made sense because of its premise, and overall atmosphere. In shows like HTGAWM it simply tells the audience creators were stuck and couldn't find a creative way to please everyone at the same time. But is it really the best way to go, in one in which bad writing made us hate all the characters?
Series ranking: 1, 2, 3, skip the rest, you'll thank me later.
Rachel Getting Married (2008)
The kind of movie that gives me hysterical laughter.
I regret ever liking this movie (youthful mistake I guess...). As far as indie movie goes, it's good. But if you hate indie movies, stay away from this. Bad reviews here are right, it's too self-indulgent and boring, with characters you honestly don't feel sympathy for. Everything in this movie is a joke to me now, the shaky cam, the bad singing and dancing, the outpouring of pathos, the weird facial expressions and overreacted dramatic scenes (the part where Kym's mother punched her always made me laugh, but the one at the hair salon is now my favorite unintentionally funny moment). The wedding in itself, was an ode to globalization of bad taste, which made me hate every second of it. The dishwasher loading contest was also a very weird, random and cringeworthy moment, that was trying to toy with our emotions and failed at it. Frankly, the whole movie did. The only time I got into a « tissue moment » was the part where Rachel was helping Kym dress up. It was sweet, but even that was done in a pretentious way. Watch at your own risk.
How to Get Away with Murder: Do You Think I'm a Bad Man? (2019)
This show really isn't good at all...
Scripted or not, these stories and cases are unbelievable. I promised myself never to watch this infuriatingly stupid show again, but I still needed to know how it ends, before Netflix took it down. And I know, it's a show called « how to get away with murder », but it's always the same party that's winning. I can't honestly recall an episode where those awful human beings payed for their crimes. Case in point in this episode, Tegan abuses her power to free a bunch of illegals, and a thief's wife gets rewarded helping him escape a crime scene. The latter was clearly another example of cop bashing on TV, but in reality, what does that say about our society? Are we so disconnected these days we are expected to feel sympathy for low lives criminals? I know Americans put one in the WH a year later, but still... You did « what was needed to survive », you say? How about work several lousy jobs, like most people do to make ends meet, instead of stealing the fruits of their labor, with your loser husband? And what kind of a judge leaves an accused unpunished after she threatened a lawyer in court? Lol.... These shows really are written by snowflakes, for snowflakes... This amount of hypocrisy sickens me. I hope Connor dies (but I know he won't), he's useless and his husband is such a weenie... Asher too, what kind of man says things like « man's » something anyway?? I'm going to beat a pillow with a poker now...
Grey's Anatomy: Crash Into Me: Part 1 (2007)
It's episodes like these that make me like season 4 less.
It was all fine, until the ambulance crash actually. From this moment on, the episode was trying to be too spectacular and dramatic, and it just didn't work. None of it did, especially the end scene, where Lexi's patient's carotid artery ruptured, in a very stupid manner. And the part where the paramedic happened to be cut in half (and was still alive), and his girlfriend happened to work in the hospital, and the tearful goodbye that ensued (it was pushing it, because we barely know anything about them). When everyone pretended they would act professionally around the other paramedic with a Svastika tattooed on his stomach, yet kept whining about it and looked disgusted throughout, like they've never had to heal people with questionable morals before. It was also unnecessarily over the top and dragged the story, in both parts of the episode(s)... Hahn don't do it for me anymore either, she just come off as preachy and rude, and I can't wait for her to leave next season honestly. It's a good thing the second part (minus George's outburst to that patient, which would have normally costs him his job) is a little better, but it's clear the show was already unable to distance itself from that first degree, that made it unwatchable overtime. Soundtrack was ok (much better in part. 2), some musical moments like the opening stays with you, while others like the last surgery (where the svastika guy is crashing) barely leaves an impression. I think it's Ava's return (because her arc this season is more interesting) and guest stars like Seth Green and Gale Harold that saved it mostly.
P. S: I can't stand Rose.
Gossip Girl: New York, I Love You XOXO (2012)
OMG, fangirl writing at its cringiest...
I wonder which one of the two GG fan girls wrote the script (and had a tantrum for this episode to include baby « Chair » somewhere). Shortest season or not, everything collapses around the Thanksgiving episode, but this series finale is so lazy it's like a school kid botching one's homework. Bart was once again taken out of the equation (which always makes me wonder why he returned in the first place...) and the whole first half of the episode was about Chuck and Blair fleeing the scene of the crime, only to come back and be picked up by the police. Because they couldn't resist getting married first... I known it helped not incriminating each other, but married or not, are we really led to believe the cops would have let them go with incriminating proofs? It's obvious they had nothing on them, so this shotgun wedding was a ridiculous fan service moment. And what is the deal with Lily? After all the lies and deceit, she still went back to her former husband (Serena's father)? I guess Rufus is with Lisa Loeb now, and Georgina with Jack. But honestly, none of the endgames during the pre-closing scene, sounded genuine. I sort of like the idea of Dan and Serena marrying each other, but even that felt too easy and rushed in some way. As for Dan being Gossip Girl, they should've left more room for interpretations, because the more they were trying to rationalize it, the less it made sense... Honestly the only thing I liked about that episode (and most of season 6), were those callbacks to older seasons and episodes. Not that awkward flashback, where the actors looked ridiculous pretending to be fifteen, but all the cameos from everyone involved in the series these past six years. Especially that little meta bit with Rachel Bilson (auditioning for the movie adaptation of « Inside ») and gossip girl's voiceover actress herself, Kristen Bell. Hats off to her for making the part as important as the rest, by the way. Then again, Nate is just there, and I had absolutely no interest in anything he did or didn't do there either. I'm glad Sage was tossed somewhere never to be seen again, the last time we saw him, running for mayor of New York apparently? (Lol, yeah right...) But I wished he would've ended up with one of those returning cast members. The introduction of the new « lonely boy » can only suggest that history will repeat itself, but who wants to see that anyway? And as both shows are somewhat tonally similar, featuring « You've Got the Love » during the last minutes, was another cool nod to SATC.
Series ranking: 1, 2, 4, toss up between 3 and 5, and 6.
Gossip Girl: Where the Vile Things Are (2012)
Getting a free pass for being the last and shortest season.
Season 6 isn't so bad after all, in fact it is better than I remembered. The only thing that really plummets it, is Bart Bass becoming the big great villain of the show. It's decisions like these that takes away the emotional impact of classics like 2x13: « O Brother, Where Bart Thou? ». Not that his death was particularly sad, but the way it translated through the leads was, and to me personally, it remains one of the best episodes of the whole series. After dealing with Ben and his insufferable daughter, writers clearly decided to get the story (and characters) moving forwards, in « Where the Vile Things Are ». Lily and Rufus are at each other's throats, using Ivy as their buffer, only she herself has an hidden agenda of her own. And this is where writers went too far as well. As manipulative as she was, Ivy never backstabbed anyone in a gratuitous manner. So turning her into a ruthless social climber, when her feelings for CeCe were genuine (she even confessed not being Charlie to her, before her passing), was a new way to create another cartoon villain character out of nowhere, this season. The life lesson given to Blair, was what I liked the most about that episode. This part (and the feud at the auction), after a feeling of having to endure her « petty mean girl » shenanigans to the dregs, made this episode one of my favorite of season 6. Dropping Blair's minions and bringing back Nelly Yuki, was also a good idea. Blair's new clothing line, inspired by her Constance uniform (!?) not so much. Eleanor must really love her daughter to allow that, especially since Serena rocked that style already last season in 5x15... Rekindling Serena and Dan's romance made sense as well because, as their « salvation » came from a place where both screwed up royally, it helped redeem both characters. So why don't I feel the same about Chuck and Blair? Simply because they think the only thing standing in the way of their love, is not having achieved their goals yet... Once again, Nate is there to play referee, and even if it happens episodes ago, I was shocked to see Sage's father give her the go to date such a « boy of easy virtue »... Matt Camden really came a long way, hasn't he?... No Georgina this time, but too much of a good thing is never a good thing. And since when Vanessa became Dan's worst nightmare?... This line always feels so weird to me. It's obviously a flawed season, but so far I'm enjoying it more than previously.
Gossip Girl: The Return of the Ring (2012)
Just as uneventful as season 3 finale...
But Serena going back to her old ways, makes it far more entertaining. Season 5 was putting everyone's eggs in one basket. The back and forth between Ivy and Lola, Blair's love square, the mysterious Diana Payne, and introduction of « The Spectator » leading to the quest of unmasking gossip girl (which past episodes made it more obvious is Dan, due to her voiceovers strangely sounding more and more like him talking) as well as the feeling of an overcharged script, makes it rewatch-ability level suffer. Killing off CeCe seems to be its most cohesive part, because it led to the big changes that were teased since last season. And a whole lot of enjoyable family drama, for once. But it is where all the improvement stops. In « The Return of the Ring » Bart (who had faked his own death...) claims his empire (including Lily) back, only why couldn't Jack be Chuck's biological father, and Diana a decoy mother, to protect Elisabeth's secret? They had the perfect opportunity to sort out all this mess, and they simply created more complications, bringing Bart back on a whim. Creating new drama between Blair and Serena was also proof of writers taking the « the more things change, the more they stay the same » quote to the letter. Granted it made for a good callback to past events of season one, only it still felt as if the show was back to square one, after giving us one of its busiest season. Even though I still believe she's secretly in love with Serena, and find it frustrating writers never addressed that, Georgina's return (after her failed attempt at impersonating gossip girl) always makes any GG episode worth watching more, in my book. Seeing Lily tearing up those divorce papers, was the part I hated the most I think, because it also shows her character is back to being incapable of owning up to her mistakes. Chuck rejecting Blair for the 100th time though, is so repetitive it's becoming comical. How they were reunited at the very end of the episode, in spite of all the awful things he told her in that roof, makes it even funnier. Are we actually supposed to root for such a destructive relationship? Any relationship in that snake pit, for that matter? Lucky those who managed to escape. And now Serena is one of them, for the time being at least. See how I still have nothing to say about Nate? Yeah, me too...
The Great Gatsby (2013)
Anyone over twenty, will hate this movie...
As someone who was a teenager when Moulin Rouge was released, I still have a vivid image of what a festival of sounds and colors it was at the theater. I remember its lyricism, humor and violence. The Great Gatsby is just trying to recapture those feelings and failing at it miserably, leaving us unamused and unimpressed. The tone is so naive, it felt like a Disney movie, with actors acting and talking like cartoon characters. The flashy aesthetic is also that of an animated film, like Moulin Rouge was, but in Moulin Rouge's case, it was still fresh and revolutionary back in 2001. And done better with special effects looked great onscreen. Twelve years later, it just all feels rehashed, and impossible to get behind the overdone eccentric soundtrack and rough editing Luhrmann is too known for. Not even the beautiful storybook ending could salvage this big hit and miss. Skip it.
Veronica Mars (2014)
The movie I never thought I needed.
I remember loving it the first time I saw it, and in a way, I still do. True there are things I don't like about the ending, but it's still a great way to pull you back into the world of Neptune's mysteries. All movie long you get that nostalgia factor, that can be so exhilarating when it is done properly. The movie feels like a long episode of the Veronica Mars TV series, an introduction to it (to viewers who never saw any episodes) and a Hollywood production all at once. The main investigation still gets you, like some of it did in the TV series, and the returning cast members, cameos and such, are mostly everything a long time VM fan would want to see in the « big screen ». The only complaint I have, is the fact that Leighton Meester couldn't reprise her role (or how Duncan was not even mentioned once). This movie definitely redeems everything that was so wrong about season 3, by filling in the blanks left at the end of it, and more importantly making the characters sympathetic again and giving them a real reason to get back on the horse (the corrupt cop thing, was a tad redundant). And the soundtrack is just as good and « modern » as you'd expect, all the while staying true to the spirit of the show as well. But like I said, I didn't get behind some of the writing choices near the end (and the whole addiction metaphor...). Looking back though, it clearly meant creators planned another comeback series soon. But maybe they shouldn't have pushed their luck...
Gossip Girl: The Wrong Goodbye (2011)
Much better than last season.
After a third season that strayed too many times, season 4 was back to the show's roots. The thing I love the most about it, is all the revenge plot involving something (and someone) from Serena's past, during her stay in boarding school. It was a big part of the original premise for the show, and I thought it was a great callback. How it all went out perfectly, with the storyline ending in a very satisfying and redeeming way to those involved, was exactly like I had hoped. Even the whole « crazy » Charlie plot wasn't too bad (and to those who remember the short lived series « The Mountain » it worked as a mini reunion between two former co-stars of the show, Penn Badgley and Kaylee Defer. Whose characters happened to date each other there as well), and I liked the Thorpe's family drama, and Louis coming back to give him and Blair another chance. Even though the last one is a little far fetched and too heavy on the symbolic (going from Twilight to Beauty & The Beast, regarding Blair and Chuck's love story, was an upgrade somehow...) it found ways to defuse the situation and give the star crossed lovers, time to breathe and maybe reunite later (I'm kidding, I know they will, but I'm still looking forward to those « Dair » moments...). Choosing the high school reunion (and Georgina's next appearance) as the setting to those last minute dramas, was a nice way to wrap it all up as well. Season 4 has all the attributes of a penultimate season, and its finale would've been perfect as such. Of course, season finale means cliffhanger ending. First, Charlie was hired to pass as Lily's daughter (why? I guess we'll know next season), and a pregnancy test reads « positive » in the trash can (whose was it? Stay turned for more on that as well). We also witnessed Vanessa's ultimate departure during those closing scenes (she's decided to move to Barcelona, and good for her, because it was painful to see writers destroying her character like that) and Eric going away to college (or the Hamptons under false identity, maybe?...). So far, this is my third favorite season after one and two, and if it wasn't for the heavy handed soap (and assassination of character) it would've probably ranked higher. Good soundtrack all over too, more in line with my own musical tastes.
Gossip Girl: Gaslit (2010)
Such a disappointing episode...
I suspect writers created all this inextricable situation, to leave a door open for those three actresses departures. But at the same time, when I see how everything was handled in the previous episodes, I just think they ran out of ideas, and want to create drama for the sake of drama now. As much as I enjoy season 4 more (especially those first episodes) it still has that old habit of introducing new interesting plots, and changing gears every two episodes. Even the college experience was put aside to go back to more extravagant stories, where everyone gets betrayed and seeks revenge on each other. Take a number I say, because the next in line is Blair (who just needs to get a life) who wants retribution for what Juliette did to Serena, with the help of Dan (how more opportunistic can you get?). The only problem is, Juliette is far more likable than those two snobs (Serena is the queen of vain, since her trip to Paris. And every episodes so far, made me want to see Blair get punched in the teeth) and the show needs to go back to more thoughtful writing, that would redeem the lead characters, if they want to keep viewers who feel the same way I do, interested in their lives again.
Red Dragon (2002)
Why didn't they just called it « manhunter »?
It is obviously a remake of the Michael Mann movie from 1987, serving as a prequel to both Silence of the Lambs and Hannibal. Now that the story of Hannibal Lecter has become the main concern of the franchise. As good as it was, it don't measure up to the first installment and makes it hard to believe in it actual timeline. Still, it did better things the old version glossed over or misrepresented, due to the time of its release. For starters, the tone is darker and the thrilling scenes don't include pop music. Which helped setting the suspense more. The characters are portrayed in a less b-movie manner, and the filmmaker didn't shy away from the blockbuster approach the original wasn't comfortable with. The only thing I regret (so to speak) is Ralph Fiennes not being as good as Tom Noonan, playing Francis Dolarhyde. He wasn't bad, but something was clearly off with his interpretation. Norton's boyish looks also makes his Will Graham different from Petersen's, but I didn't mind the change. Nothing bad to say about Hopkins (the only noticeable common thread in the trilogy) or the rest of the cast either, because they each brought something new and familiar to the original characters as well. So even if the Hollywood ending remained similar in tone, I thought it was more thrilling and handled better in this version. All in all, I think it can rate between the two movies released previously. And way above Hannibal Rising. But I still don't understand why studios lied about it...
Gossip Girl: Touch of Eva (2010)
Gossip Girl, the college year.
Last season was a false start. The characters took a year off (or weren't invested enough in their new environment), and were as aimless as the writers themselves. It actually reminded how another Jason Schwartz's creation (Chuck) was at a moot point in its third season as well (being too much and not enough at the same time). After two fun episodes shot in Paris (mostly), the show seems to be back to its old tricks, only with more precision. It brought me back to its earliest days, where writers could find the right balance between down to earth issues and upper east siders drama. The new additions work perfectly as well, Katie Cassidy (fresh out of her Melrose Place days) and Clémence Poesy, fit in nicely. As much as I don't like French actors in American productions, she was a good choice for Gossip Girl. Columbia is a nicer setting than NYU as well, and more in line with the leads. The characters look more fleshed out as well, and the more mature stories (almost) change from all the kids bickering. The only pity is keeping the annoying and useless family drama of last year, and how hopelessly corrupt this world seems to be. But it wouldn't be a guilty pleasure, would it? And personally, I can't stand Blair anymore. She really is despicable (the whole thing with Louis, when she thought he was only « the help ») and her endless schemings are getting old. But I like her renewed friendship with Serena and how she and Chuck payed for past mistakes, at the end of this episode. And The National song played there of course.
Gossip Girl: Last Tango, Then Paris (2010)
Too much theatrics.
That's what I mostly regret about season 3. Where season 2 was trying to stay on top with a more or less winning « new » approach, season 3 was just going overboard with the soap and lost sight of things. From this point on, characters were means to create new scandals and twists each episode. And from what I remember, it's an unfortunate trait that'll become the show's trademark for the rest of its runtime. I still preferred the second over the first half of the season, which was really bland. But it felt like I was watching the actual Melrose Place reboot that aired that year, instead of the Gossip Girl I knew and loved since the pilot episode. And besides writing stuffs to push Taylor Momsen out of the show (because she requested it herself, to pursue her music career, if I remember correctly...), the whole arc leading to everything that happened in the finale, wasn't as exciting as creators wanted it to be. And regarding the last episode itself, barely anything that happened there was a big surprise to be honest (except maybe Chuck being shot). Nate and Serena were too polished to last, Blair and Chuck thrive on melodrama, so it was bound to end there. And regardless of her leaving, Dan and Vanessa were doomed from the start. All that remained were supporting characters being exactly there to support the leads antics and humeurs of the day. Even Georgina long overdue come back, was spoiled by that blackmail to Dan (like anybody would believe it's his baby...). At the end of the day, « Last Tango, Then Paris » made you more eager to get to the Paris part, with tacky storylines and baby stuffs we've seen in TV shows since the beginning of prime time soaps. Using only covers for the soundtrack, was a good idea, and Jenny becoming the new Serena, was a satisfying (and ironic) way to bring closure to her character's small journey « into the Manhattan's elite ». Only Blair threatening her, was a manipulative way to emphasize how « finished » she was, as we already knew that, after her father decided to ship her elsewhere (so he won't have to deal with her problems anymore...). And who would honestly fear that little whiny rich girl Blair? Jenny is better off all that.
Gossip Girl: The Lady Vanished (2010)
The picking point of the season.
It is one of the few greatly written episodes so far this season. Everything we've seen since the premiere come full circle, and new storylines are introduced. The soundtrack and music placements are perfect from start to finish, which also adds a lot to its appeal. Dan and Vanessa profess their love to each other, Chuck's arc is at a crossroad, Blair is becoming the perfect girlfriend, Serena and Nate are just as steamy as we would've imagined and Jennie continues her downward spiral with Damien, and parents that are already growing apart. A couple of months after they got married and were reunited with their long lost son. It's an episode with a story that wrote itself, with the good acting and directing that goes with it. Each offering a different picture, depending which characters (or group of characters) are involved. Obviously, at least half of it won't stick in the following episodes, but that's just how soap operas like GG, at that point of their run, roll.
Gossip Girl: Dan de Fleurette (2009)
All of season 3 shallowness in one episode...
Season 3 gets off to a flying start. I love the premiere and the episode that follows even. But then episode 3 gets boring (the drama at the auction is endless) and episode 4 has Tyra Banks (no comment...) and introduces a new character played by Hilary Duff... To say the show got ridiculous is putting things mildly. It's the fakest it ever got, with lead characters that are now parodying themselves. « Dan de Fleurette » has one of the most cardboard writing. Blair is becoming a joke, trying to recreate her Constance environnement in college (like anybody over sixteen would want this toxicity in their lives...). And Jenny and Chuck are even more so, supporting her deluded ambitions and following that logic as well (this is clearly Jenny's time to be written out). This is also the start of the « Serena always wins » era of the show, where we witness her getting her first gig in the public relations business, and becoming super friends with the freak show she was « hired » to assist. Even when it was revealed that her new boss used her for nothing more than her « scandalous reputation », she still came out on top. And there's the issue of Dan dating the first girl that comes along now and Nate being basically useless to the story. Even Vanessa is more relevant than he is this season apparently. Honestly, the only thing I love about this episode, is Rufus impersonating Lily. That part was really funny.
American Psycho (2000)
Inside the mind of a future serial killer.
Everything was a fiber of « Bateman » (if it's not a nickname his colleagues gave him) imagination. Probably caused by overuse of drugs and a lying pathology he had no knowledge of. But the movie ends with a big question mark as well. Will he ever make the step? Considering all his drawings, it's pretty clear murder is something he's dying to do (so to speak). And even though it manifested through symbolic acts, at the end of the day, he's still dangerous and unpredictable, which makes the ending even creepier. Speaking of creepy, Bale is as well. He's a great Patrick Bateman, but somehow not exactly as nuanced as you would expect. Upon rewatching the movie, I thought his portrayal of the character lacked subtleties. It was as if Bateman had two emotional ranges, switching between aloof and psychotic in each situations he put himself into (in his own mind). But that doesn't take away from the good acting and statuesque presence of the actor. The supporting roles, because let's be honest, he's the star of the movie, delivered well as well, and gave more 3D portrayals of their respective roles. And who knows? Maybe the director did it on purpose to emphasize Bateman's incapacity to stay in touch with reality. Whatever the reasons, the movie is still very well made. The offbeat humor works, the horror sequences are eerily brought and even the scene when the « hero » arrives at what he thought was Paul's apartment, makes you uncomfortable in an unexpected way. Honestly the only bits I « hated » were when he stomped to death the homeless man's dog (the importance of good sound effects), how very year 2000 it can be, for a movie set in late 80s. And the part where he starts shooting everyone in sight (including blowing up a police car) and crying on the phone to his « lawyer » about it. It was a silly scene, and maybe a different approach would've improved it. Other than that, I can say I like everything else about the film, including all those musical anecdotes and songs placed at the right moment. Making the lead (psychopath) a music buff, gave the movie adaptation a new aspect to the story I thought. It's an unbelievable classic, and one that grew on me over the years as well.
Gossip Girl: The Goodbye Gossip Girl (2009)
Used to be a gripping episode, not anymore.
The first time I saw this, I was counting moments before Gossip Girl was revealed. But now that I know who he actually is, I guess episodes like these became anecdotal. Also, as I'm not a big « Chair » fan, I barely notice their get together at the end. The part where Jenny gets the crowd however, is always satisfying, just to see the mean girls faces when she's consecrated by « queen. B » herself. Season 2 of Gossip Girl had the same issues second year of The O. C. had I think. Writers were finding new ways to stay fresh, and the show lost focus coming up with a new scandal every two episodes. Nonetheless, it has one of the best episodes and storylines. Not « Valley Girls », which was pitched as an 80s Gossip Girl with obnoxious leads, and CW was for once, right to pass on it (especially with 90210 reboot being a fierce competitor). But everything from the premiere to the Winter ball (students overreacting to Vanessa's great body showing through the beautiful sheer dress though, was a little bit unrealistic...) and Bart's death to graduation (including « the age of dissonance » one of my all time favorite GG episodes). If I had to choose which part to skip, I would say the two A's (Agnes and Aaron) and Blair and Chuck « will they won't they? » moments, that felt overdone past a certain point. Regarding « The Goodbye Gossip Girl » the last minute twists was when the episode gets really exciting, hinting at new juicy storylines that would have you eager to get to season 3 premiered. And regardless of which scene it was featured, get the closing song on download.
Titanic (1997)
The second half always saves the movie for me.
There are movies like the Titanic that never made into my list. Whereas it's the epitome of late 90s blockbuster. And up until now, I never understood why, so let's just say it like it is, the characters are awful. Jack had the chance of having his low life thief persona completely redeemed by his selfless and heroic act saving Rose. But Rose?... One example out of many: twice she's given up a seat on the lifeboats, because her heart wasn't exactly in it... How selfish can you be? I get it, she loved Jack (or thought she did) but she literally killed two people doing that. Seventeen or not, it was a pretty spoiled rotten thing to do. So to think she could live with a penniless boy like Jack? Please... This is what completely destroyed her character for me. Only not by much, because up to that point, she was annoying and whimsical as hell. It's sad to say, but apart from the « based on a true story » aspect of the movie, I didn't care one bit about any of the characters, when tragedy struck. Because the filmmaker didn't do much to make me feel for them, I thought. However, the way some of them reacted during this life and death situation, mainly Jack, Molly Brown and officer Lowe (the smartest of them all), made it so I eventually did not feel like I've wasted my time rewatching the movie after all. Because it is long, too long maybe, spending too much time introducing non relatable characters. And some of the special effects didn't age well. The sinking of the boat sequence is just as spectacular and thrilling as it was thankfully, and why I did not spend too much time listing everything I thought was wrong with everything else. The soundtrack (score) is also one of it highlights, and I now prefer the humming version of the theme song, we hear during several key scenes. The drawing, sweaty hands, first meet even, pale in comparison to the rest of the film today. And I believe DiCaprio and Winslet have better chemistry in Revolutionary Road. Weird, right? Also, I think « Romeo & Juliette » is a better movie of his earliest career. Better story, onscreen couple and soundtrack, obviously. Sorry to the fans out there.
I almost forgot, the supporting cast was good too. Billy Zane especially, whom was something I remembered always liking about the movie. He played his character so well, you'd expect him to make an about turn at any moment, and do something that would make him not entirely bad. Obviously he never does, and I'm fine with it either way, because he's still devilishly handsome and fun to watch in that role.
Romy and Michele's High School Reunion (1997)
Rewatch-ability through the roof...
To me a movie (or a TV show even) you can watch countless times, and never get tired of, has undeniable qualities. « Romy and Michele's High School Reunion »´s lies in its capacity at not being afraid to look stupid and still be good, like most 90s comedies do. The cast is pretty iconic too, and the soundtrack is one of the best I own (who knew a 90s movie soundtrack would include the best 80s pop had to offer?). The leads, Kudrow and Sorvino were perfect for the roles (so is the rest of the cast actually) but Kudrow's ability to playing those airheads without sounding (or looking even) too dumb, is something of an achievement. Sorvino was a great Romy. She could be both believable as the insecure former « fat girl » and switch to self confident (without looking vain) just like that. And I love her super vixen moments. Heather Mooney is another iconic character/portrayal (and her reunion with her « old fling » is one of my favorite parts). The mean girls/jocks are exactly how you would picture them to be in a silly yet heartwarming movie like that, and the way the actors look older and even more awkward pretending to be high school kids, makes it funnier. I still have a soft spot for Lisa Luder (Elaine Hendrix) though, she's definitely the only one of the herd with a (likable) personality. Adam Cumming and Camryn Manheim are a delight and steal the show every time they're onscreen. Granted the movie owns its ludicrous more than it actually should (the dream sequence and awkward dance at the reunion) but I love that about it too. And I think it is one I'll never stop watching, thanks to the good vibes that transpires through the screen each time.
High Fidelity (2000)
Most people will probably hate or love this movie.
As for me, I have mixed feelings about it. I Hated the self absorbed and whiny main character. Is this really how men act before committing? Asking all their exes, better yet, finding ways to make them say or do something, to convince themselves that their relationship ended because of things they had no control over? For this character most definitely, but is he of the exception? I thought his colleagues at the record store, in spite of their quirks, had a clearer view on things. So as you can see, most of what I hated about the movie was Rob, which is kind of problematic (I hate that word...), because he was kind of the hero of the story... But at the same time, I also loved the whole cast (Joan Cusack, was hysterical as usual and the actress who played Laura, was very good) and of course, the music. The fact that most of it took place at a record store, reminded me of movies like « Empire Records » only with less grunge and more classical rock. And as someone who loves making playlists (formally known as mixtapes), I like to think that the official CD was the lead's perfect mixtape to his girlfriend/future wife, he talked about before Stevie Wonder started playing in the end credits. Not something I hated per se, but I also thought the movie had tedious parts, especially during the middle run (when he was trying to get Laura back...) and the Ian character was too confusing.
I remember not liking it the first time I saw it, and I still don't. Just a couple of scenes here and there, like Rob's realization with Charlie. But the cast, supporting roles and soundtrack were what gave it most of its charm, so it's still a reasonably watchable movie in my book.
Footloose (1984)
Part of those old movies outshined by the soundtrack.
There again, I wonder which one is more popular, the movie or the soundtrack? It's my first time watching this all time classic I've only heard about in second year of Dawson's Creek. Where the gang gather in Dawson's room watching it on TV, at the start of the Dance episode. Or when « Romy and Michele » kickstarted their crazy road trip together with the theme song blasting on the radio. And stalled... But ever since, I've never had the opportunity to watch the original version, because the remake was what was available on streaming everywhere. So now that I've added this to my list of classics I missed and finally had the chance to watch. I've seen a lot of ressemblance with other « musicals » like Grease or Dirty Dancing even, but I can understand the poor critical reception it got. The premise is weird, but at the same time, with things like « woke » culture, we can relate to it now. Especially the scene where they start burning « inappropriate » books... The characters were a turn off for me at first too. I hated Ariel mostly. Her Mary Sue with a death wish attitude, was pathetic to watch, and I don't get what Ren saw in her. But when her ex happened to be worse than she was, she kind of grew on me, even though I still preferred her mother (Diane Weist, another great « old school » actress). I won't lie, the movie is kind of ridiculous and corny sometimes, and I've laughed a lot during Bacon's angry dance scene in the semi abandoned quarry (but I loved the song they played there). Only it has that whole aura of being a classic through the ages and the good acting gave more credibility to the far fetched story (who are these people Ren and her mother live with, after they moved to the community, after his father left?...). And obviously, the soundtrack like a lot of below average teen movies of that time, like Valley Girl and Pretty In Pink, is packed with hits that were placed thoroughly throughout the film. It's one of those movies anyone should watch at least once to make up their own minds about it. And also one, fans of some of the actors (like Kevin Bacon or Sarah Jessica Parker) must discover to perfect their knowledge on their work. Not sure if he was doubled a lot, but the actor had moves there...