jumpdates Reviews

Dismissed (2017)

A very well thought out plot but let down by some acting

[6/10 · 23 February 2018]

If there is any movie that can be let down by mediocre acting or directing, then this is the one. Aside from Dylan Sprouse who gives an impressive rendition to his character of a social psychopath, the rest of the acting is a big let down. The placid acting of the teacher played by Randall Park is no match for Dylan Sprouse who plays the student with much more credibility of a ruthless sociopath. Many parts of the movie lack the necessary and essential direction that could have made this movie great. For example, the teacher not attempting to protect the family when in danger of such a predator. The movie is only lifted by Dylan Sprouse's screen presence and I can see him to be appearing in bigger movies yet to come.

The Secrets of Emily Blair (2016)

Potentially a good idea of an exorcism movie but flawed by poor acting

[4/10 · 28 October 2016]

The first half of the movie wasn't too bad but after that it just spiraled into oblivion and you just wanted the film to finish quickly. I got the impression that they may have run out of budget and hence the choppy dialogues and scenes at the end.

Ellen Hollman was the better actor but Will Kemp's acting (her fiancé) was sub par. It's a shame that Ellen Hollman couldn't lift up the whole film with just her acting alone which I thought was good. It was weighed down by the bad scripting and acting from the other cast.

I would watch the first half of the movie with some interest but the second half, just let it run it's course while you are having dinner or chatting with friends.

He Never Died (2015)

A film that leaves you with a chilling feeling...

[6/10 · 3 January 2016]

This film left a rather uncomfortable feeling for me at the end, although by no means a criticism of the movie. Most horror films that I have watched in the past that contain blood and gore only have a marginal effect on me at the end because I can pass them off as too 'fantastic' and just pure entertainment. However, this movie had the dual sense of realism along with the supernatural/horror that is expected of a movie of this type, and leaves you with a chilling feeling at the end and beyond.

The movie is fast paced and develops with the main character who is at odds with his behavior and interactions with other people he meets in his tiny world. It dramatically unfolds into a cat and mouse game where the audience is propelled into the chaotic and violent life of the underworld.

There were fine touches to the movie which other reviewers were not able to pick up...the time where he declares to the waitress that he goes back as far as Kayan or Caine as people knew him by. This would explain some of the dialogue at the end and the appearance of another aloof character at the end of the movie.

A very well directed movie that keeps you intensely focused right to the end.

Catch Me Daddy (2014)

A gritty raw movie worth watching

[7/10 · 1 October 2015]

One word is all that I can say about this movie "Raw'. It's a movie designed not to please or entertain but just a gritty story line of a chase that unfolds into a torrential end. As you watch the movie, you start looking for clues to it's purpose and then you settle into your chair and let the movie carry you. The characters are presented in a very raw form, no refinement but unadulterated compilation of characters with dialogue that bring the film to life. You don't guess, you watch and you witness people's demons and the measures they take to bring sanity and balance to their lives. A truly well executed movie that is worth watching.

The Edge (1997)

A surprisingly good movie showing the quality of a man

[7/10 · 5 April 2011]

Although this was not quite 'at the edge of your seat' type movie (sorry no pun intended), it nevertheless is a good movie.

The story I found to be more deeper than what many people would actually sum up as a movie. Here you find a man who is not only fabulously wealthy but he comes through with the scruples of a principled man, something we don't often relate to in the real world.

The movie tries to portray a man who despite his enormous wealth shows his true nature as the film unfolds, and towards the end demonstrates that money alone does not make up a man.

I really like the last part which drives home this point where he makes a most profound statement to the news crew awaiting him. This shows the enormous courage, resilience, empathy of a man that most other men could not come near to.

Serendipity (2001)

A pleasant romantic comedy that keeps you running in circles.

[8 June 2002]

A young man and woman bump into each other in a shop and take an immediate liking to each other. A sudden gush of wind blows the paper out of Sara's (Kate Beckinsale) hands when she tries to hand it over to Jonathon (John Cusack). Sara is convinced that this is fate and so leaves it to chance for a next encounter between them. Sometimes in the future they both reminisce of the day they met and unexpectedly decide to embark on a mission to seek each other out. This makes for an interesting storyline of near hits and misses as they cross each others path but never quite getting together. A pleasant romantic movie to watch if not taken seriously.

Rebel Without a Cause (1955)

A good timeless film but a little outdated in the scenes department.

[8 June 2002]

James Dean delivers a fine performance of a troubled teenager who is misunderstood by his parents and finds his outlet through drinking and hanging out with teenage gangs. Natalie Wood also gives a convincing performance of a teenage girl who finds solace through Dean. The film portrays well the conflicting differences between the adults and the kids of its time in particular the impact of indifferences between parents on their children. Although the film stretches outside the boundary of social constraints to prove its point it does however manage to bring many sensitive questions to surface. This is a film which young people and adults could relate to and probably the reason behind its popularity and success. Ultimately the aim of this movie is to show adolescent kids in their true form; a need to fit in to society, a genuine understanding from parents and to acknowledge their human qualities of emotions, love and friendship. Even though the scenes may appear a bit outdated the story is timeless.

A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001)

A good attempt at creating a believable character

[26 May 2002]

The film ‘Bicentennial Man' tried to tackle the aspect of ‘artificial intelligence' in robots but after some way into the film it became somewhat unconvincing. This latest offering by Spielberg does a much better job of creating a believable story while at the same time showing the true complexity of this much talked about issue. Spielberg convincingly adds human traits to the artificially created boy ‘David' who is taken on and adopted by a family. The irrational behavior ingrained in David is made apparent when he is sitting on the dinner table and forces down food in his body. Ironically, it is the human part in David that becomes the biggest problem for the family to handle. Mother Monica played by Frances O'Connor (II) reluctantly disbands David and so begins David's journey to win back his mothers love by chasing a fairy tale she had once read to him. When David learns that he is not unique, we see a fitting display of human emotions and tantrums by a frustrated boy who refuses to believe that his hopes and dreams were to no avail. The last segment of the film may appear disconnected with the rest of the story, but I believe it raises some interesting questions. How is David's fulfillment of his dreams any different from ours?

Brewster's Millions (1985)

an enjoyable comedy

[23 May 2002]

The film is a comedy of how Brewster finds creative ways of spending the 30 million dollars and not always getting it right. He is unable to tell anyone of his real intentions of inheriting 300 million by successfully blowing 30 million dollars in 30 days. As soon as he receives news he goes on a wild spending spree and recruits lawyers, security guards, decorators etc. all at very inflated salaries. Eventually the word goes around and soon everyone is jostling to benefit from his generosity. Some of the people close to him are unnerved by his spending prowess and tries to help him acquire more money through investments which is exactly the opposite of what he wants. This all adds up to a series of very comical events which is most enjoyable to watch. Look out for the upcoming remake of this movie.

About a Boy (2002)

a warm and lighthearted comedy which makes a change from the many action flicks of today

[22 May 2002]

Hugh Grant always seems to land the perfect role in these type of movies and this film is no exception. He seems to have the knack to play the innocent, naive and fumbling young man which the viewers adore. The audience also unknowingly develops a sympathetic view of him which all makes for an interesting set of events as we follow this character through the movie.

A care-free Will played by Hugh Grant enjoys the worldly pleasures of being an independent bachelor but this all changes when he meets a boy of a single mum. At first Will is taken back by the brazen nature of the boy but they eventually become good buddies. Marcus played by Nicholas Hoult gives a fine performance as the boy who is taunted at school and is also troubled by her mothers suicidal attempts. The film has some very funny moments and manages to address the hard truths of relationships, personal anxieties and the simple matter of just growing up. A light hearted and down to earth movie which makes a change from the many action flicks that are in abundant supply today.

Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002)

stunning visuals and actions but marred by an unconvincing cast

[22 May 2002]

I was disappointed with Lucas's previous movie Phantom of the Menace as I found it to be flat with a slow development of the storyline. Lucas used a new approach to this movie and wastes no time in getting the audience straight into the action. You can almost compare this movie with those of James Bond where a simple storyline is woven with lavish settings, visuals and actions. There are some spectacular scenes of cities and locations shot on the various planets but the overall feel appears slightly artificial. The alien characters also appear animated and not as lifelike as one would have expected. Acting is also somewhat sub standard and was particularly disappointed with Samuel Jackson's somewhat muted performance. However, performances by the old veteran Christopher Lee and the voice of Yoda (Frank Oz) lifted this movie. There seemed to be an urgency in the film as the scenes were shot in quick succession in various locations and so tended to depart away from the central theme of the story. Normally the musical score gets unnoticed in most epics but in this case it appeared more pronounced which could be argued as good or bad. The intimate relationship between Anakin Skywalker and Senator Padme Amidala was tackled early in the movie with the premise that that the Star Wars saga will continue. The final battle scenes was by far the best part of the movie. The complex mechanics of machinery, robots, humans and aliens battling on the desert was very well captured on screen. Like all good spirited action movies we see the supreme republican members of the council also engaged in hand to hand combat. Stunning visuals with good actions are let down by a weak cast but entertaining to watch nevertheless.

Jeepers Creepers (2001)

weak plot not helped by poor directing

[18 May 2002]

The movie started quite light heartedly with both brother and sister driving up to their parents with familiar brother and sister squabbles. Though the special effects is not too bad, the actual film footage with the encounter with the mutant is very disappointing. In one scene the duo decides to stand ground and battle with the mutant despite the horrific events earlier. This may provide interesting film footage but does not develop any sense of realism or credibility amongst the audience with the central characters. The plot continues to be more confusing with the introduction of a psychic who claims she has witnessed all the events and knows the future. Although I could not figure out why the teenage boy held such importance to the physic. In conclusion, a movie with an extremely weak plot and failing to arouse the audience with unbelievable dramatic scenes.

Bonnie and Clyde (1967)

thought provoking and intelligent directing

[18 May 2002]

Performance by both Warran Beatty (Clyde) and Faye Dunaway (Bonnie) are commendable in this movie. Faye D does a nice job of portraying the impulsive and bored young woman who meets Clyde who has just been released from prison. After Clyde goes into a grocery store and casually comes out waving stolen money, Bonnie is immediately drawn to Clyde and both embark on the road to robbing banks. The ease at which they are able to rob banks and get away with it turns it into an exciting and frenzied game for them while at the same time their fondness for each other grows. There was some fine touches of directing when Clyde unavoidably shoots and kills one of the bankers giving chase and is deeply impacted afterwards by his act. At the same time we see Bonnie who is shown completely oblivious to what had happened. It is at this point, that they probably unconsciously realize there is no turning back and the social rules and constraints no longer apply to them. They become entrapped in their own makings and continue in their dangerous ventures and also take on two more additional members, Clyde's brother and his wife. The fantasy world of Bonnie is brought perfectly to home when the whole group meets up with Bonnie's mother. Here we are shown a startled Bonnie after her mother rebuffs her. Bonnie is then drawn even closer to Clyde. The film loses its momentum towards the end as it focuses more on the couple and less on the events happening around them. This is probably to develop an empathy amongst the audience for the final sequences of the movie. Overall a good thought provoking film with some intelligent directing.

Changing Lanes (2002)

a fair film depicting rage, vindication and remorse

[16 May 2002]

Following a car accident Ben A is desperate to retrieve an important file from Samuel J which could clear him from possible fraud charges whilst Samuel J struggles to bring sanity to his crumbling marriage. The film focuses on the two embittered individuals locked in battle whilst focusing on the problems in their daily lives. The cinematography in some instances tries to mimic the movie 'Traffic' to give it a documentary feel and to make the events appear more real. Samuel J is perfectly suited for this role where rage and sensibilities work hand in hand as noticed by his recent movies like ‘Shaft'. Ben A doesn't deliver the same dynamic performance as Samuel J but his role as an insecure and almost helpless lawyer seems to be a good fit. Although the film does go through interesting twists and turns and keeps the audience engaged the overall film conveys a less believable story with a lackluster feel. Some engaging moments for teaching us the morale issues of life but altogether an average film.

Coyote Ugly (2000)

a fun lighthearted movie to take away the blues

[16 May 2002]

The film is a clever rendition of a simple storyline with elements of romance, family bonding, friendship, eroticism and ambitions all thrown in. From the beginning of the film its aim is simply to entertain the audience by cleverly bringing peoples inner inhibitions and desires to life. Its a fun film to watch and manages to keep you captivated by the boisterous thrills in the bar and then cleverly transporting you away to focus on peoples vulnerabilities in personal relationships. Overall an enjoyable film to watch to take away the blues.

Panic Room (2002)

good tense drama that keeps you watching

[15 May 2002]

This film reminds me of Hitchcocks 'The Rear Window' where the same tense drama is developed through the story. The film also has some feel to the classic movie ‘Wait Until Dark' where a blind woman played by Audrey Hepburn is subjected to a similar kind of ordeal. The tense drama that develops between Alton played by Jodie Foster and the three intruders is quite believable and therefore compelling to watch. Instinctive thinking in the face of adversity is well portrayed and makes this movie all that more watchable while giving it momentum. We are also shown the very dark side of people on one hand where cold-blooded killing is the norm and also the morally conscious person where protecting life is more important above anything else. Look out for the opening credits its so beautifully done!

Man on the Moon (1999)

a likeable film if you like comedies

[15 May 2002]

This film portrays the rise to fame of a US comedian Andy Kauffman. Kauffman is played by Jim Carey and delivers some of the best acting I have seen and he most certainly carries this film forward. Although Kauffman is portrayed as a man of little patience and plenty of eccentricity it is not so obvious whether this is due to his complex personality or his simple desire to make it big in show business. There are many occasions where he uses his charm and wit to fool the audience with many on stage pranks. These 'pranks' continue to intrigue him and becomes central to all his shows including the highly publicized wrestling scenes . When Kauffman is reported to be ill, no one believes him and we are left wandering through to the end whether it is real or just another hoax. There were some nice moments in the movie like the trip he makes to Philippines to be cured of his illness but only to find that the treatment is just another scam. Towards the end of the movie the film loses all sense of reality as Kauffman is shown to be deceased but soon after is shown to be performing one of his caricature acts (Tony Clifton) or so we are led to believe. A nice film to watch if you like comedies.

The Scorpion King (2002)

An entertaining movie reminiscent of the films 'Adventures of Sinbad'

[13 May 2002]

The film has been well received in the box office despite the negative remarks made by film critics. The film plot is nothing unusual and can be compared to films like the Adventures of Sinbad and the Mummy with modern humor thrown in. There is plenty of action and sword fighting so the movie doesnt have many dull moments. Acting and set is fairly lavish although the make up of people does sometimes look a tad too good after battling in enemy territory. The aim of the film is to entertain which it does. A lighthearted swashbuckling movie.

Ocean's Eleven (2001)

fairly good especially in the execution of the robbery

[13 May 2002]

The film develops slowly trying to gather the group of characters who will play a central role in the robbery of a casino masterminded by Daniel Ocean played by George Clooney. Unlike the film 'The Sting' the story doesnt bring out the characters too well probably because there are too many characters to deal with in the short space of time. However, the main characters are portrayed superficially including the ex-wife of Ocean played by Julia Roberts. The main theme of the of the story is to highlight the challenging attempt at robbing a highly secure vault at the basement of a Casino owned by casino mogul Terry Benedict played by Andy Garcia. The entertaining part of the movie was the execution of the plan and the way it unfolded all the way to the end. The film was marred towards the end where the 'robbers' actions were put in good light against that of a businessman but I would guess to add substance to the film and the characters. Also the wife's unscrupulous behavior to leave Benedict for Ocean was also questionable. Nevertheless, the film is entertaining to watch particularly during the robbery scene where the story takes a few unexpected twists and turns.

Spider-Man (2002)

A very entertaining movie that is a whole lot of fun to watch.

[13 May 2002]

Before watching this movie I had doubts about this movie and braced myself expecting a non-stop concoction of mindless visuals and action where the story plays a secondary role. I was very pleasantly surprised with the whole movie as it had an excellent blend of action, and visuals and dare to say.. a rather nice story line. This film kept me entertained all the way through and I couldn't help but smile during some of the scenes. In the first twenty minutes of the movie I knew this movie was going to entertain because the producers had paid tiny attention to detail which tends to get unnoticed in some of the movies of today. I am guessing this film took a great deal of time to plan and finish and boy has it been worth it. Apart from just creating a mish-mash of a non-stop mindless action with no theme behind it the producers of this movie worked very hard to create a nice balance between the portrayal of a superhero's character and the real living man behind superhero Peter Parker. The film strikes true by showing the clumsy attempts of the superhero's unashamed mistakes when using his new found powers. In all, a lively entertaining film that is fun to watch and makes you feel close to a superhero character than has ever before possible. This includes the film Batman which does a respectable job of bringing a superhero to life but the film setting appears in a fantasy city of Gotham which makes the story less believable. Thumbs up to the producer and director of this movie for bringing a super hero character a lot more closer to life. A must see movie.