GummoM Reviews

The Beatles: Get Back (2021)

Sublime Film

[10/10 · 1 March 2023]

It has long been a fantasy of mine to have been present when a songwriter/musician, particularly a Beatle, first hit on a melody, lyric or sound. This film get closer than anything I've seen to doing that and it was hypnotic watching the four refining their songs in their unique way.

What was equally enthralling was witnessing the apparent love the four had for each other despite George's brief disgruntlement which, while disappointing, again proved how strongly each member valued the others' contribution.

Also revealing was the fact that Yoko seems to have been unfairly blamed for breaking up the band; at least, on the evidence of this film, she was no more than a benign presence. If any negative influence did occur, it was obviously out of the scope of the production team.

The Banshees of Inisherin (2022)

An Embarrassment

[2/10 · 18 February 2023]

Going into too much detail on the failings of this dreadful film undoubtedly brings the risk of elevating it to the level of worthiness of criticism.

The story is completely nonsensical and reminds me of the times we can all remember when we had to write a story in primary school - made a decent start and middle but rushed a poor ending. Well, the entirety of this film was less inventive than such a rushed ending.

The actions and counter-actions of the two main protagonists, particularly Colm, were utterly ridiculous to behold. The two (saving) graces were firstly, the acting performances, particularly of Kerry Condon and the stupendous Barry Keoghan, and secondly, the beautifully-shot West of Ireland scenery. I repeat - those graces weren't saving ones.

I sincerely hope, as an Irishman, that the viewing world doesn't make any logical conclusions about the Irish on the strength of this film. Hopefully, it will be seen as some twisted art-house film in Quiet Man clothing.

Nowhere Special (2020)

One Long Bore

[1/10 · 9 November 2021]

I completely sympathised with the main protagonist's dilemma but this is a five minute story told in 96 minutes. Another nagging thought is that I could have directed the film as was released. This, I hope you understand, is another poor reflection on the film.

Doctor Sleep (2019)

A memorable film, made less memorable

[6/10 · 9 November 2021]

I enjoyed this film immensely, until about an hour from the end when it was taken to an unnecessary and illogical denouement. Why the Overlook and its occupants were included is a mystery to me, particularly since Abra, and possibly Dan, had enough power to demolish a thousand Rose the Hats.