absforachilles Reviews

My Bloody Valentine (2009)

Valentine's Day Comes Early!

[7/10 · 24 January 2009]

I figured after the gimmicky-corporate ads and trailers that this movie was just going to be a cut out remake with no chance. However, when I sat down to watch this film, I was truly blown away! Every one of killings had a ballet sequence to them that was both mesmerizing and terrifying. With human body parts flying out you here and there, it's hard to underestimate the clichéd horror story. I think most of MBV's success, however, should go to the 3D features; it made watching pretty intense. Kerr Smith was a believable sheriff and Jamie King was fitting for that staggering caught in a love triangle damsel in distress. Jensen Ackles fans would have a field with this movie as it truly showcased his acting chops. This film definitely was definitely a step up from his role in Supernatural. I would recommend this movie to anyone with an interest in a good slasher movie thrill ride with great 21th century effects. It is suspensing, engaging, and will leave you with a head rush all the way up to the end.

Wanted (2008)

You Make The Choice

[9/10 · 15 July 2008]

Wanted has to be one of the best films of 2008 so far. The action is incredible and remains consistent throughout the movie. Watching this I felt like Angelina was the real deal, I could definitely picture her as an assassin in real life. James McAvoy is a very likable character, definitely a step up from the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Then there's Morgan Freeman. Seeing a gentleman like him wielding a gun might just be why this movie is memorable. While some claim this film to be a reminisce of Matrix, I would have to disagree, because the storyline is truly original. Curving guns and shooting wings off a fly? you can't get more awesome than that. With its comic book essence, twist turning story line, I would think that anyone would hope to be Wanted.

The Incredible Hulk (2008)

Bigger, Greener, and Back With a Vengeance

[7/10 · 13 July 2008]

Going in thinking that this film would be a sequel to the first one, I was happy to say I was mistaken. What the first one lacked, this one surely fulfilled. Most of the reason that I believe that this did better was not adding characters that would only be fillers to the film. In this film everyone had a purpose and they did not over step that by adding twists and turns leading you to the wrong direction. Edward Norton is not too bad as the Hulk and plays a troubled hero quite well. Liv Tyler is a great actress that did provide a few comic moments for this film. While I did believe that this film lagged in some areas, it did have a plot and purpose. The CGI was awesome and the Hulk probably looked more as a hero every time he appeared. Though he was feared at first, society finally looked past the green exterior and saw compassion. By that, we see a different side of Hulk and welcome him as a truly incredible being. If you really want to see why the Hulk stands out as a superhero, than I would highly recommend this film.

The Happening (2008)

What Happened?

[2/10 · 12 July 2008]

I am not a big fan of M Night S. , but I did not expect this film to be something of this sort. From the trailer we are confronted with people who meet a tragic ending but it leaves us guessing with why? Watching this film, I still felt that MNS failed to mention the answer as to why it was considered the Happening. I can come up with a few reasons, but I cannot be quite sure and thats what troubles me about this film. I solidify this film as a two, because MNS did attempt to keep this film true to its genres as all his other ones. Some scenes were graphic and actually disturbing that I notice the audience did look away at times. I think he had the right idea, but was deficient in his execution. Watching it, I did not have high hopes for it so I might not recommend it, but if your an MNS fan, than I think this film might suit you more.

Hancock (2008)

Not A Typical Homeless

[6/10 · 12 July 2008]

With mild drama and twist turning action I suspected this movie to be something special. Having everyone hate you is just the forte of being Hancock (Will Smith). While most of society may not like him, he coasts through an existence as an unemployed, homeless man with superhuman capabilities. Unlike conventional movies, Hancock is a hero with an attitude. He may not act with justice at times, but it does not take away the heart that rests inside. Why then would I give this a five then? Well mainly, because of the twist. At first the story line appeared to be heading in a nice and pleasant direction, but the fatal twist halfway made me think differently. I suspect that the writers wrote it to provide complexity, but I just felt it was unnecessary. Overall though, it had a unique storyline and was truly one of a kind. Even though I did not find the twist satisfying, I believe that it is still worth the watch for most of it. With or without doubts I say go out and watch it and be the judge of what you see.

Knocked Up (2007)

Be Knocked Up is not always a Bad Thing.

[5/10 · 19 April 2008]

Picture this, you are single and at a club with a friend or relative and you are having a wonderful time. You are apparently drunk and you have just met a very attractive man or woman. The question is do you go for it? Apparently that is what Kathrine Hegel (sorry for the spelling) did one night. Though reviews have claimed that it was an adult form of Juno, I thought it was quite different then Juno. Knocked Up had a more serious mood to it, it was actually more serious than I predicted it to be. There were funny moment, but I imagined that their audience would range between thirty's to fifties. However, its suitable for mostly any one who would be interested in the concept of knocked up. If you are looking for a potty humor than I would say check out family guy, but if you prefer comedy with a more serious comedy and tone, than this movie is definitely worth the watch.

Street Kings (2008)

A Story of Vigilantes

[5/10 · 15 April 2008]

It holds the element of gang bangers, but it basically comes down to a stereotypical view of LA mixed with Hollywood stars and infamous names from those blockbuster action movies. Though the concept was original with Keenu Reeves and Chris Evans being the vigilantes of the LA street, I found that this movie had an immense amount of time used for dialoge. I remember watching it and expecting for some action, but getting more informative clues leading to the next chase and then to the next. The action scenes may have been the most interesting part of the film, but seeing as it stars Keeanu reeves, most people know he made no mistakes in the matrix. If you are into movies like this, than I would say go watch it, but if your more into the action, and concept than look somewhere else, because this film may overthrow you with their abrasive language and gunpoint drives.

Smart People (2008)

Had a Sense of Junosaisquo

[6/10 · 14 April 2008]

I found this movie to be significantly interesting, because it dealt with an abnormal American family. This movie did justice to the concept of family by adding a few laughs here and there and even memorable lines that still give me chuckles. The chemistry between Vanessa (elllen page) and chuck (thomas Haden church) provided seamless foundation that did not make this movie lag. However, I am still questioning on Sara Jessica parker, who I thought provided for the awkwardness of the movie. Parker and Quad had an oddball chemistry that made several scenes actually boring and dragging. Though I never really sensed a connection between the movie and its title Smart People, I still think it is worth the watch. With witty banter and smart remarks, this movie would sure not disappoint, especially the Juno fans.

The Ruins (2008)

The Trailer Does Not Do It Justice

[6/10 · 12 April 2008]

The story of the ruins is typical, a few friends traveling to Mexico stumble upon an ancient ground that is cursed and try to make their way and survive. So when I happened to have a chance to watch it, It ended up being well worth the money. The story tells of four friends who meet a Munich friend while vacationing in Mexico. The five then decide to go to the ruins, an area not yet discovered. Following up to much movies like descent or the cave, the friends decide to journey and wind up being killed off one by one. Though it had some moments of gore and suspense, I have got to say that the concept was actually believe to where it felt like it could happen to anyone. The cast was great every actor did their job well and made me actually feel sorry and to survive. If you think this movie is like many of others in its genre, I say you check it out and judge for yourself.

Supernatural (2005–2020)

Vigilantes with an Attitude

[7/10 · 7 April 2008]

TV shows done in a supernatural aspect has never won favor of television critics. Sometimes people argue it is because it is too focused on the drama of the characters than the actual supernatural story itself. As a result, the story usually takes a turn for the worst and people tend to tune out leading the show to a one way ticket for its cancellation. When this show first came out, I found it to be quite a ride as you journey with the winchester brothers (jensen ackled and jared padelecki) down a dark road by a black 69 Chevy impala. But this show is not only spins with old school rock and X-Files esquire theme, but it is actually a refreshing taste of the true urban legends and tales people from over the centuries have underestimated. Not surprising the team hired Eric kripke, his creatively experiences with shows like the x-files have refreshed this genre and actually put supernatural into perspective. Jensen Ackles and Jared Padelecki have great chemistry as they hunt demons, with Ackles being the devil may care, and younger brother Sam, being the voice of reason. However, as the series glides into their fourth season, I see it taking a turn into the more dramatic phase and lacking in some colors of legends and actuality. Though I have been a fan of their earlier stories and dialogues, I still have hope for this series. SO for those of you tired of cheesy I love you dramatic series such as full house, scrubs,.. than I suggest you tune into the dark side and enter a world that is called Supernatural.

Smallville (2001–2017)

Behind the Mask of Superman

[7/10 · 7 April 2008]

WHo doesn't like a story of superman? To be more descriptive, who doesn't enjoy a TV show that displays teen angst and the story behind how heroes become great. Hence, the question as to the origins of where superman really came from. From the critically acclaimed story of superman, comes a TV series that speaks about the story of superman, before he became infamous and as a young teenage boy. Smallville follows the life of Clark Kent and as he grows up, his powers develop and he is forced to hide his powers, protected the people, all while being a normal teenage who is still required to go to school. Smallville works as a fantasy series, because it adds historical context to the actual history of superman, but also providing insight on the characters and how it affects them. If your a fan of visual and special effects, this is the way to go, because every episode i packed with super strength, x ray vision heat vision, and almost any superhero you could name. However, gearing up for their eight season, smallville, is become very dramatic with their character and plot. The episodes do not really seem to connect and some episodes would make you question if they should even be there. However, I have no doubts that they would continue with the story of superman theme, so it should be heading towards more of the epic plot as he grows closer to his destiny. I say this would be enjoyable for fantasy and even comic book fans, but for people who want superman accuracy, this series may often have you scratching your heads.

Sabrina the Teenage Witch (1996–2003)

An Actual Witch who Uses her Powers

[6/10 · 7 April 2008]

Movie and television series of the present day often do a weird job in presenting the witch or the wizard. Harry Potter for example, is a total wizard, but his main source of power is through a wand. And 2008 TV series wizards of waverly place is one of the most unbearable shows ever and to top it all off they are NATO even allowed to use their powers without permission. Talk about parental control and no magical fun. So I would say Sabrina the teenage sets herself apart for actually being a show with powers that is both humorous and inviting to watch. Sixteen year old Sabrina comes into her powers why living with her two aunts, who teach and guide her into powers as she grows up. Funny characters such as Mr kraft has a bitter attitude, but he also turns out to be one of the most entertaining characters. Sabrina also uses her powers and actually makes you believe that magic is cool instead of harry potter who has spells dealing with old English and wizards where their spells are too bizarre. Sabrina is the best witch I have seen to hit media and she insures that what your watching is entertaining, funny and magical.

Superhero Movie (2008)

Can anyone be a superhero these days

[2/10 · 7 April 2008]

When I first saw the trailer for this film I didn't have high hopes for it. One, it seemed to follow the pattern of scary movie and their abrasive form of humor. Two, the superhero was Drake bell and seeing as I have watched his television series from time to time, I didn;t think I could take him seriously. The story reveals a character, who is awkward, and comes to his powers by a genetically mutated dragonfly. As he goes though discovering his powers, he clumsily gets into accidents and saves people, but only to be the one to hurt them in the first place. It is a strange form of parody of spider man, instead of Tobey McGuire, it is drake bell and instead of Kirsten dunst it is Sara Paxton. I guess I can;t rate this movie any higher, because I am not into the potty humor (I wasn't a big fan of the scary movies either). I can say that I had some optimism for this movie before I watched it, but while I was watching it that optimism was not really clear any more. I say that if you like scary movies or family guy than this may be the movie for you, but for the people who find crude humor to get old fast, I advise you to see something else.

Drillbit Taylor (2008)

Presenting the life of the new and awkward

[7/10 · 7 April 2008]

Take one part Owen Wilson and three parts high school freshman and you have a clever comedy. The story tells of three high school freshman just starting their first day, hoping that they could generate a fresh start. However, all turns sour when one boy stands up for each other and all three become the ridicule of the school and targets for two very rough school bullies. To avoid further ridicule, the boys hope to hire a body guard to protect them from their bullies. Barely living by day, Owen Wilson comes into the picture and uses his wits to charm the boys for the job. Though at first his intentions are for his own benefit, he later grows a heartfelt concern for the boys. Throguhout the movie we see a gentle chemistry with Owen and the boys. I actually enjoyed the movie, because it had nice humor and strangely some sort of plot that did not make you feel the movie was dragging. Owen Wilson adds his own flavor to the film by being both a new high school vigilante and a charming gentleman for a fellow teacher. This movie combined subtle comedy, romance and friendship that sends a positive message surpassing the social people in high school. I would say this is well worth the watch, and if your an Owen Wilson fan, be prepared for a smooth ride.

Bee Movie (2007)

Answers Many Bee Questions

[7/10 · 7 April 2008]

When first looking at the trailer, I did not have much high hopes for this film. I was thinking maybe a cross between Antz and try to be cute bugs life. However, the second I popped in the DVD, I realized that this movie was different. The story tells of a bee named Barry who questions what he wants to do as a job. As the pressure increases, he decides to leave the hive and meets Renee zelwegger's (sorry for the spelling) character, who actually shows him true friendship. Despite some little boring moments in the film, I found that it was humorous and a nice ride as you join Barry and his fellow bees soar into the sky. So don't take negative reviews to seriously, this movie is actually worth the watch, maybe even with your kids or little brothers, sisters, and or even relatives. Its fun, interesting and even provides a positive message that some people underestimate. If your still thinking of watching it, think like a bee.

Jumper (2008)

No Disguises Required

[7/10 · 9 March 2008]

Superman has the power to fly and Bat has the ability to make bats look like ninja. Jumper, on the other hand, turns light saber expert Hayden Christensen into a teleporting maestro. Most superhero flicks such as Batman or Spiderman portray people like Tobey McGuire as selfless and epic heroes. The truth is, if anyone was to suddenly wake up with super powers, they probably wouldn't turn into selfless heroes overnight. Jumper tells the story of a boy who later learns he has the power to teleport. As he grows into his powers, he lives a very carefree life until he realizes that he nd many others like him are caught in a war. Though Christensen has the power to teleport, he does not use it to save the world, but in finding ways to amuse himself. Its nice, because it does not play on the old story of Superman or Batman, but on a regular guy with the ability to teleport and his attempts to find love and survive the war. I thought Christensen did a good job in portraying an everyday jumper. Rachel Bilson acting was okay, but I thought she was sometimes in the way when it came to the action scenes. Jamie Bell did nice work in portraying a devil may care attitude and adding much comic relief. Samuel Jackson does a good job as always being the slightly aggressive and often times intimidating enemy. Overall I gave this movie an 8, because I thought it was something worth watching and action scenes were amazing. I would say the story could have been better, but props to Doug Liamon for bringing in a new concept of fantasy and action. I would say this is definitely worth the watch.

Disturbia (2007)

Creating a Disturbia that Brings More than One Emotion

[8/10 · 3 March 2008]

When first catching the trailer of this film, I was not expecting much but a thrilling stakeout. To my surprise, watching the movie actually turned out to be the one of the best things I recently spent my money on (of course its a rental). Seeing that it was Shia LaBeouf, I didn't set my hopes to high, because whenever I see him I get flash backs of his character Louis on the previous Disney show of "Even Stevens." However, his role as Kale turned out to be a great step away from his childhood role. I would even say that LaBeouf was truly convincing in this role as a teenager torn between losing his father and dealing with the concept of house arrest. Like most thriller movies, this one started with a simple concept, a teenage boy who loses his father and has a hard time coping without him. When he lashes out, Kale (LaBeouf) receives house arrest. After things starts getting boring, he becomes close friends with a pair of binoculars and begins noticing his neighbors around him. The plot thickens when Sarah moves in next door and goofy best pal Ronnie decides to spend some time at Kale's house. All seems normal until strange things begins happening next door. David Morse plays the brilliant Mr. Turner and actually delivers a bone chilling character. At one moment he can be Mr. Roger's brother, but at the next, he reveals the true concept of sinister. The chemistry between Morse and LaBeouf brings out a film that would keep you on your toes while, wanting to see what would happen next. In addition to suspensive moments, this movie also has comedic surprises that stops this film from being boring to downright amusing. The teenage romance is predictable, but what separates this movie from other movies is there is not a huge display of affection. Though this movie may seem predictable, it will actually keep you guessing the whole time. With its concept of comedy, suspense, and of course romance, this film delivers great chemistry and a new sense of "Disturbia."