Miroslav-27 Reviews

Baby Driver (2017)

Masterful Music Motion

[7/10 · 12 May 2023]

While this film has many admirable qualities, the music (and subsequently the way it's used) is the real MVP. The amount of time that went into the sound editing/mixing must have been endless. However, it pays off in the end!

To people who aren't music lovers, this movie will still feel pleasing to the ears, rhythmic, and overly satisfying even if the viewer can't quite put their finger on why.

To music lovers, you will be in awe. It's not just that the soundtrack is strong, it's that the director and editors carefully crafted every single scene to make sure sounds synced up with the music, people were moving to the music, music was dictating the pace of the scene, etc. Everything feels intentional and every scene is enhanced by that intentionality - boosting the mood, timing, vibe, feel, and everything else that makes it play out like poetry in motion.

Okay enough gushing about the "audio" experience... the "visual" experience is pretty good too! There's a long continuous shot to start the film, intense action sequences (trying not to give away spoilers here), and a number of shots that are satisfying to the eye.

I wouldn't call the plot "deep" per se - pretty much what you think is going to happen makes up the backbone of the movie. The love story, albeit cute and musically heartwarming, moves quick.

The cast is stellar though, with each big name bringing their own strong presence to the screen. Eiza González is underutilized though with her one-dimensional character. There are some funny moments too in what is more of a dramatic, action flick.

It's a must-watch for all viewers - just be sure to enjoy it on the best sound system you own so you can appreciate the full eargasm experience.

Verdict: Watch.

Sisu (2022)

Unrealistic Nazi Killing Fun

[5/10 · 4 May 2023]

If you go into this movie thinking it's going to be a realistic portrayal of a World War II hero, you will quickly be relieved of that notion. Sisu is an over the top Nazi killing gorefest that will appeal to the John Wick audiences of the world. The fight scenes leave a little bit to be desired, and the realism (without giving too much away) made many of us, myself included, laugh out loud in the theater.

Don't expect more than what you think this movie is going to be based on watching the trailer. It's an acquired taste this 90 minutes of low budget cinema.

All that being said, it's hard not to root for this warrior as he takes on despicable antagonists using what can only be described as the world's strongest pickaxe.

Verdict: Watch.

Colossal (2016)

A Colossal Flop

[3/10 · 31 January 2023]

Colossal has a major identity crisis. There are about 5 potential themes to explore in this movie and somehow none of them are actually explored. While seemingly attempting to make a "mixed genre" type movie, Colossal comes across as messy, unfocused, and off balance. If the film wanted to explore the tough side of alcoholism, I'd have been on board. If the film wanted to focus on relationships & past friendships, sure. If the film wanted to be a big metaphor and dive into the imagination, I would have said okay. Instead, all of these potential themes are hinted at with no deep dive in any direction, leaving the viewer confused and disoriented by the end.

Sudeikis' character arc is bafflingly rigid and unexplainable which changes the tone of the film completely. Hathaway gives it her best but she's hard to root for (and I'm not sure if she's supposed to be funny, charming, annoying...?). The supporting cast seems underutilized and the overall plot line never gets the depth it deserves.

One could call Colossal "ambitious," but I would just call it a mess.

Verdict: Don't Watch It.

10,000 BC (2008)

Gets it all wrong

[2/10 · 28 January 2023]

You don't have to be a historian to get the feeling that 10,000 B. C. just gets it all wrong. The accents and clothing don't seem right, the strange characters toward the end of the film seem like they're from a different movie, the languages seem off, the different skin tones between tribes is confusing, the "technology"doesn't seem to match the same time period as the animals... The time period just feels poorly researched to the point where even if you don't know what something was like back then, you know as you watch the film that it was NOT like this.

On top of this overwhelming feeling that everything is just not quite right, there is a lot of poor filmmaking unfortunately. Bad acting (and no chemistry) by the 2 leads, a weak (and out of place if I'm being honest) voiceover), poor visual effects for 2008, and a genre identify crisis all wrap together to create this bottom of the barrel film. It's almost shocking how bad it is watching it today (2023).

Verdict: Don't Watch It.

Extraction (2020)

Incredible Stunt Work Steals the Show

[7/10 · 27 January 2023]

The backstory of our hero may feel shallow and familiar, but all of that is swiftly forgotten once you're wrapped up in the action scenes. Sam Hargrave deserves a lot of credit on this - you can see and feel his directing/stuntman blended touch throughout. Hemsworth & Hooda both do a good job with the fight choreography and yet Farahani is who I want to see more of in the sequel.

Extraction makes no attempt to fool you into thinking this movie is more than what it originally seems. Go in expecting an action movie, come out very surprised and happy about how good of an action movie it really was. Top marks for stunts and camerawork. Excited for the sequel.

Verdict: Watch it.

The Recruit (2003)

Interesting but Forgettable

[5/10 · 4 January 2023]

It's fun to "see behind the curtain" of the CIA as we go on an adventure with a new recruit. But the film leaves a lot to be desired with a rushed love story, accelerated plot points, and unspoken motives. Ferrell and Pacino have surface-level emotion and backstory leaving character development as a big hole.

"The Recruit" has too many secrets of its own for the viewers to feel fully engaged in what's happening and to care about the characters. Nonetheless, it's always interesting to learn about a secret organization and take a trip (albeit short and relatively uneventful) with someone on the inside.

Verdict: Watch.

RocknRolla (2008)

Very Guy Ritchie

[5/10 · 19 November 2022]

Another chapter in the Guy Ritchie British gangster movie collection. If that's not your style, you will not enjoy this movie at all. If it IS your style, you will enjoy RocknRolla very much. Sadly I find myself stuck somewhere in the middle - appreciating the craftsmanship while wishing for more substance.

Nevertheless, this is a star-studded film that has memorable moments in both the serious and the not-so-serious. There's twisted storylines, funny moments, flawed protagonists, lots of dialogue, and about 10 actors all trying to win the award for coolest, most badass gangster.

Consistent complaint I have about Ritchie films is a lack of strong female characters and RocknRolla falls squarely in that category. I'm glad I watched it but I'll just as soon forget how it made me feel - but it's worth one movie night of your life.

Verdict: Watch it.

The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003)

League of What Could Have Been

[5/10 · 16 November 2022]

In some ways, this film was ahead of it's time with all of its (attempted) special effects and CGI. But at the same time, it's these very things that hold the film back. Too much attention was put into trying to create wow moments and not enough on character development and storyline... and with that in mind you'd expect the effects to actually be better than they were (example: did they just get lazy at times with Tony Curran's character??)

It's like if this movie would have been made in 2018 with the proper budget and editing, it could have been special because modern audiences love "superhero" (and "antihero") stories and it would have gotten the attention it deserved during post-production. But instead, "The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen" will sit on the shelf with other movies whose aspirations were bigger than it could handle.

It's always fun to see Connery on the screen and the other characters (sans Sawyer) were (just about) likable if not intriguing. So I'd say give it a viewing, even if not for anything but to see how far we've come, but temper expectations.

A proper reboot 5-10 years from now would not be surprising, or unwelcome.

Verdict: Watch It.

Infinite (2021)

Great Concept, Horrible Execution

[3/10 · 8 November 2022]

I haven't been this disappointed about a film in quite some time. The concept of having infinite memories from previous lives presents so many opportunities for fantastical cinema. However, it is all squandered by focusing too much on glamour and not enough on substance. It seem like the filmmakers were more interested in showing off shiny cars, cool gadgets, and nice clothes than they were in actually developing characters. Even in its attempts to be flashy and fun, Infinite still falls flat. They even tried to make Wahlberg's character funny, but it doesn't land.

Here's the TLDR version: The acting is phoned in; the backstory is surface-level; the chemistry is horrible (especially for people who have seemingly known each other for lifetimes); the action is sparse; the visual effects are video game like and completely unrealistic.

This "reincarnated heroes" concept could have been well-crafted in the right hands, but it disappoints on just about every level. Hopefully in the future, someone else will reincarnate this movie and make a much better version.

Verdict: Don't Watch.

Killer Elite (2011)

Could Have Been Better

[5/10 · 21 September 2022]

This "based on a true story" film had a lot of potential that was unfortunately squandered. Instead of treating the subject material as a real-life covert war mystery (which it is alleging to be), Killer Elite elects to serve up another Jason Statham hero movie where he kicks lots of ass and gets the girl. There's minimal chemistry with the love interest, not enough back story to make "The Feathermen" interesting, and too much over the top action which trumps all believability.

Surpassingly, De Niro was a bright spot amongst all the chaos. I know very little about the actual incidents depicted in the film and can still confidently say this movie doesn't do it justice. You're better off reading articles about what happened than trying to take Killer Elite for it's word.

Verdict: Don't Watch.

Mystic River (2003)

A well-told whodunit tragedy

[8/10 · 12 September 2022]

Watched this movie in 2022 as it had been almost 20 years since I'd seen it and couldn't really remember much. The story is still tragic, the acting is still very good, the directing is still top-notch, and the ending is still haunting. On paper, Mystic River could have turned into a classic murder mystery film, but the material actually goes much deeper. There are additional themes explored here: childhood trauma, consequences for our actions, connections from the past, ripple effects of neighborhood tragedy, etc. These elements are carefully intertwined with the main storyline which is what keeps Mystic River a step above its peers. A star-studded cast bring this film into Oscar-winning territory and you will be glad you rewatched it.

Verdict: Watch it.

Savages (I) (2012)

Missed Opportunity; Falls Victim to Clichés

[5/10 · 11 September 2022]

What could have been a very insightful, thrilling, and educational movie turned out to be your average run-of-the-mill revenge flick. All of the intrigue behind the premise of Savages gets lost after the first 15 minutes. It loses its sense of self and dives deep into the overplayed and all too common "our loved one was taken and we'll do anything to get her back" storyline. It goes from interesting & sexy to flashy & cliché... and never looks back.

I'm disappointed in this movie overall due to its high star power cast and Director. Savages could have explored so many themes: cannabis, love triangles, higher education (and how it's not from everyone), running an illegal drug business, crooked federal agents, any of this stuff! But sadly, it doesn't. It scratches the surface for about 15 minutes and then turns into a gruesome, over the top violent cartel movie that you didn't sign up to watch. What a missed opportunity and a waste of so much talent.

Verdict: Don't watch.

Gravity (2013)

Wow. Gripping lost in space film!

[8/10 · 2 September 2022]

There's not much backstory as Gravity dives pretty much straight into the action, but wow is it breath-taking. The combination of the set design, visual effects, cinematography, and directing make you forget that you're not actual in space. The realism in this movie is on another level. The attention to visual and audio detail is top-notch, where not a single moment in the movie takes you out of it. We are fully entrenched in the story from the beginning and hoping for a positive outcome for our own sake throughout.

There are other space movies with more layers, complex plots, or character development, but Gravity doesn't shy away from what it wants to be: a lost-in-space fight to survive movie that takes its viewers on an unbelievable journey. And boy does it succeed in doing so!

Verdict: Watch it.

Drive (I) (2011)

Leaves an Impression

[7/10 · 30 August 2022]

Stuck between genres, what Drive lacks in backstory it makes up for in its production value. Spliced together well, the film's sound, cinematography, and editing create a captivating experience. I just wish there was more character development. Plus, the love story accelerated quicker than Gosling's getaway car.

Gosling's limited depth of acting is on full display here as a character who hardly changes facial expressions, but a charming Carey Mulligan allows us to forgive and forget.

All in all, it feels like must-see cinema that will be (or may already be) part of film classes everywhere, but it won't make your feel-good, all-time favorites list.

Verdict: Watch it.

Bullet Train (2022)

Not As Fun As It Wants To Be

[5/10 · 16 August 2022]

Despite its best efforts, Bullet Train is not as fun(ny) as it wants to be. There's a lack of character development & Brad Pitt's character feels too one-noted. While the plot has a couple (almost) great twists toward the end, it feels stuck on autopilot throughout the film, mirroring the train's relatively straight line trajectory without a lot of deviation.

We've all seen a movie where "all the funny parts were in the trailer" and sadly Bullet Train falls into that category.

There's some impressive camerawork, cinematography, and editing that make the visuals its best feature, but in the end, Bullet Train feels just meh.

Verdict: Take it or leave it.

The Card Counter (2021)

Artsy for Artsy's Sake Borefest

[3/10 · 28 July 2022]

The Card Counter is the movie equivalent of a high school kid who says and does things that he thinks are cool, but they're just not. Lines are delivered and actions (using that term loosely) are portrayed with such overt confidence that they almost don't seem real - like someone thinks they're more thought-provoking than they really are. There were at least a dozen scenes where it felt like I was watching an SNL sketch that was spoofing overly serious movie scenes.

I don't mind a slow burn of a movie, but that moved at a snail's pace and had no redeeming qualities besides a few songs from the soundtrack. No chemistry between love interests, no likeable protagonists, no heart-warming friendships, no motives, and no real sense of self.

The film is lifeless and you will not be glad that you watched it - you can count on that.

Verdict: Don't Watch.

The Gray Man (2022)

B-level Action Flick

[6/10 · 26 July 2022]

New premise? Nope. New concepts or thematic ideas explored? Nope. New levels of character development and plot twists? Nope. Still enjoyable enough for a Netflix movie night? Yep.

The story here is beyond shallow, but Gosling is surprisingly convincing and charming despite not having to reach too deep into his acting repertoire for this character. Chris Evans's character was shockingly flat and one-dimensional and a complete waste of his talents.

There are a few witty moments, some intense fight sequences, and a charismatic Gosling - all which slightly outweigh the predictable plot and cheesy CGI (that parachute scene anyone??). It's a shoot 'em up action flick that serves as your movie for a night in, but don't expect to see something that you haven't seen before.

Verdict: Watch.

Memento (2000)

Early Christopher Nolan Genius

[8/10 · 25 July 2022]

Memento was one of Christopher Nolan's first big films that really put him on the map as this visionary director with a knack for playing with time. The story unfolds in (mostly) backwards order and keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat throughout its entirety. There's some top-notch editing and storytelling that make for a great "thinker movie" through and through.

Watching Memento is not only an enjoyable viewing experience but it also gives you an alternate perspective on movies. You're led by a flawed narrator through a series of clips that slowly tie together and paint this picture that has multiple viewpoints. You'll think, you'll gasp, you'll question reality, and you'll stare at your screen in silence for a while afterwards. But most telling for a great movie - you'll remember this film years down the road because it stays with you. Even if you don't remember all the details, you'll remember how it made you feel - and this demonstrates how powerful the film is and also leaves you with a poignant sense of irony given the movie's subject matter of memory loss.

This is also another movie you can add to your "will still be enjoyable and I'll notice something new the 2nd time I watch it" column.

Verdict: Watch.

The 355 (2022)

Underrated Star-Studded Action

[7/10 · 13 June 2022]

I think The 355 is suffering from a bit of gender bias because it's definitely not as bad as the reviews say. I've seen many action films with predominantly male casts that are much worse than this but have higher ratings. Does The 355 reinvent the spy or action genres? No. But does it kick a lot of ass and provide for a fun Saturday night blockbuster? Absolutely! Sure the plot and antagonists are a bit shallow, but there are some impressive fight sequences, a couple of twists, and some raw emotion that provide enough substance for viewers.

Each of the cast members holds their own in this action-packed, international adventure (there are 3 Oscar winners in the cast!). You're not seeing anything new here, but what you are seeing is high enough quality to leave you satisfied and thinking "I'd definitely watch a sequel of these badass women taking down bad guys!"

Verdict: Watch it.

Senior Year (2022)

Surprisingly Clever

[6/10 · 9 June 2022]

There's enough nostalgia to make you smile and reminisce about your youth. The fun part about Senior Year is that it not only makes fun of the "old days" aka the 90s, but it also makes fun of today's generation of high school kids. The over-the-top characters and scenes add to the comedy of it all where the movie presents itself as self-aware. Some laugh out loud moments, clever script writing, and an all too familiar trip down memory lane make Senior Year an enjoyable cinematic experience.

Verdict: Watch it.

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

Total Thrill Ride!

[8/10 · 27 May 2022]

An epic adrenaline rush created by some of the most unbelievable high-octane, real-life aerial sequences ever made. You feel like you've been in the jet the entire movie (prepare to sweat!). Calling this an action movie doesn't really do it justice - it's more of an immersive thrill ride.

Top Gun: Maverick pays homage to its original on multiple occasions, filling you with nostalgia. A few of the characters are rather one-dimensional and some of the dialogue feels predictably simple, but the storyline delivers. Tom Cruise defies physics and his age once again, delivering on his promises of using real planes and no CGI.

This is what a big blockbuster film can be! The bar has been raised and everyone else has been put on notice.

Verdict: Watch it.

The Peacemaker (1997)

Classic 90s Action

[5/10 · 15 May 2022]

Serviceable for your throwback action flick, but nothing spectacular here. This is typical fast-paced 90s action which makes for a fun popcorn-eating movie night where you cheer for America. It's a bit rushed in areas (especially once Clooney shows up), the ending is abrupt, and Kidman's accent (annoyingly) goes in and out the entire time. Clooney starts off as a "military liaison" but quickly transforms into James Bond while Kidman's character is surprisingly bold and boss for a 90s movie.

There's definitely better movies out there, but there are also many that are worse.

Verdict: Watch it.

The Raid: Redemption (2011)

Still a Top Action Flick

[7/10 · 14 May 2022]

Iko Uwais does most of the ass-kicking here, but a lot of credit has to go to Director Gareth Evans too. The Raid is well-paced, edited, and directed from start to finish. You may have to look away every once in a while if you're a bit squeamish, but you won't want to take your eyes off this film otherwise. An action-packed adrenaline rush that reminds you just how much fun a "martial arts movie" can be.

Verdict: Watch it.

Red Notice (2021)

Predictable But Fun Heist Movie

[6/10 · 7 May 2022]

Red Notice isn't going to surprise you in any way - it's probably the least amount of acting the 3 main actors have ever had to do - they basically play their same usual selves from 99% of their other movies. I'd be lying if I said that I didn't see the big plot twist coming as well.

All that aside though, Red Notice delivers as a fun, comedic action movie that feels like a blend of National Treasure, Indiana Jones, and The Thomas Crown Affair. It wants to be sleek, sexy, and not take itself too seriously - and it does just that.

Pros: scenery, humor, never gets boring

It doesn't rewrite the prototypical heist movie script, but who doesn't love a good heist movie?!

Verdict: Watch.

Nobody (I) (2021)

Not Your Normal Action Flick

[6/10 · 6 May 2022]

It's not quite John Wick, but "Nobody" suffices as an enjoyable action flick with plenty of "gun fu." There is a massive lack of backstory and character development, but it feels on purpose. The film knows what it is and what it isn't, and it leans into that. The protagonist is atypical, the fight scenes are chaotic, and the storyline cliché... but overall it's pretty fun.

Verdict: Watch.