bigmystery23 Reviews

Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk (2016)

Technically ambitious and breathtaking, but lacking in substance

[7/10 · 16 October 2016]

The moment the audience saw the first shot of Billy Lynn reaching for his phone, the audience gasped. Ang Lee's ambitious choice of filming at a frame rate of 120fps in a 4K and 3D format is beyond words. We become immersed into Billy Lynn's world, seeing the little details that we normally would not see in a film (imagine what Emmanuel Lubezki did in 'The Revenant' and times it by 5). The person I went with to see the film described it best, it was a very sensual experience not just from the cinematography, but also the interesting soundscape and phenomenal editing. There are small moments when what would be a mundane action becomes a trigger for Billy Lynn and his squad. Lee does not hold back in making the audience feel the PTSD of those soldiers which at times is beautiful done as well as a bit too much for those of us who have never experienced it. Now I could go on about how brilliant the film is technically and it's sure to get some Oscar recognition in that aspect, but all films revolve around a story.

What could have been an amazing film merely becomes an OK film because of the story's weakness. I read an article where the critic trashed Ang Lee, but to be honest it's not Lee who's to blame but whoever wrote the script. The script is so dull and because of that the audience never got the full immersion we were hoping to get. The only person we connect to by the end of the film is Kristen Stewart's character, yet that isn't even delved into. The relationships between the characters aren't developed very much except for one relationship that is developed WAY too fast and in the most unrealistic way possible. You can get a sense of a strong bond between Lynn and his squad, but just barely.

As for the acting, Kristen Stewart was definitely the standout. Joe Alwyn did a great job, too, but not the memorable debut performance I was hoping to see. Vin Diesel and Steve Martin are truly miscast (this may just be me being picky, but every time they came on screen I felt very uncomfortable).

To sum this up, I'm giving this movie a 7 out of 10 because of the technical brilliance and the experience of watching a film in this frame rate, though be warned that the story is very weak. Some people are going to find the 120fps very strange, but for the cinephiles who have an open mind, you'll be blown away.

Moonlight (I) (2016)

A Simple Story Told in a Universal Way

[10/10 · 12 October 2016]

This is a movie that deserves to be seen without knowing too much about it. I want to be brief about my reaction to this film, but what I really want is for you to know that this is a must-see film because it showcases a story from characters not seen enough in film. It's an important film not because it draws attention to race, but because it reminds the audience that skin color shouldn't be a factor in filmmaking (though there are exceptions, particularly with historical accuracy).

First, I must applaud Berry Jenkins on his firm direction. He is not afraid to be poetic, to guide his film away from conventional storytelling and offers the audience to connect to the film in their own way. The film is not about a black man figuring out his sexuality, but about how identity takes time to discover, something almost (if not) everyone can relate to.

The performances, ranging from the children to the adults, are so raw and powerful. Naomie Harris and Mahershala Ali are the standouts, both on the verge of receiving awards recognition. A standing ovation to the casting director!

The soundscape is particularly impressive. It knows when to draw in sound and when to take it away, what type of music is necessary in the particular scene (bravo to composer Nicholas Britell), when to bring the volume and bass up or down, and so on.

There is so much more to say about this film, but I want to leave it up to you to decide. And I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

The Big Short (2015)

Looks can be deceiving...

[9/10 · 23 December 2015]

I'm not one to fall for movie trailers after growing up being deceived by them, so I only expected this movie to be a comedy because of critic reviews. Now I definitely don't trust critics. I walked out of this movie feeling terrified at the world economy and disgusted by the people who touch our hard earning money. Perhaps this is out of ignorance of not knowing, but The Big Short does a superb job at giving us the back story of the 2008 collapse. I am very impressed with Adam McKay's approach to this movie (an example of how directors can change for the better). The editing is frenetic, going beyond viewer expectations and making you feel annoyed by the numerous freeze frames, the sudden faults with the sound, and so on. The acting is impeccable (particularly from Steve Carrel and Christian Bale). The script is intelligent, riotous, slick, and brutally honest. There are creative ways to explain how this industry works to people like me who do not know a lot about banking and Wall Street. People are going to try to compare this to Wolf of Wall Street, but it's very different. To be 100% honest, though, this is going to be a half and half for people. Some people will love it, others will find it irritating or just satisfying. I loved it, but that's my personal feeling.

Joy (I) (2015)

Jennifer Lawrence in top form once again!

[23 December 2015]

Let me begin by saying this is not David O. Russell's strongest film. What made American Hustle, Silver Linging's Playbook, and The Fighter tour de forces were the complexities of every character. Joy's main (and quite frankly only) focus is on Jennifer Lawrence's character. In that sense, it is superb. The other characters aren't flushed out very well. However, that doesn't mean this movie isn't satisfying. The story is just fascinating and intriguing, I was honestly surprised how at the edge of my seat I was at times. The soundtrack is exquisite (as always with his films). The distinct editing style of David O. Russell films is there (which I personally adore very much). And though the supporting cast is never as compelling as most David O. Russell films, they do add the thrive of the main character's goals. I give it an 8 out of 10.

The Hateful Eight (2015)

Great presentation. Average movie.

[5/10 · 21 December 2015]

I'm not going to go too in depth on this review, just point out the pros and cons of the film as simply as I can.

What largely bothered me about this bombastically crafted 3 hour western is that it never felt like a true Tarantino movie. When you look at his filmography, you can see such innovation and creativity in his filmmaking. But here....it's like he recycled his own work and compiled it up to make this movie (aka Django Unchained meets Reservoir Dogs meets Kill Bill Volume II). The dialogue is never as witty as it should be. The plot is a little too over the top for how simple it really is (I saw the end coming the moment the characters step into the cabin). There are only brief moments of Tarantino's violent style (a huge let down compared to Inglorious Bastards and Django Unchained). And the N-word is far too gratuitous. Perhaps there's a deeper meaning behind this film, but I honestly did not see it if it was there.

On a good note, Jennifer Jason Leigh is incredible as Daisy and definitely the stand out. The score is undeniably riveting and silly at the same time. The cinematography is gorgeous. The artistic outcome of the film is unique and dazzling.

I guess that's what makes this movie worth seeing: the experience. Tarantino took so much time and effort to present his film in the best possible manner, which is the case (no IMAX experience can beat 70MM film being projected in Panavision). It is great to be able to go back in time and experience new cinema as if you were in old Hollywood. It's truly a glamorous experience.

Beasts of No Nation (2015)

A harrowing, yet breathtaking masterpiece

[10/10 · 18 October 2015]

I've always admired Cary Fukunaga's style of filming since his first feature 'Sin Nombre.' And I was so glad that people were able to experience the skills he has after his breakout hit in television with 'True Detective.' However, 'Beasts of No Nation' boasts more to Fukunaga that 'True Detective,' 'Sin Nombre,' and 'Jane Eyre' were not able to. Fukunaga shows his humanistic nature and masterful skill of film through the mise-en-scene. He utilizes the camera to evoke the darkest parts of humanity through the colors, the emptiness of the set pieces, and the vulnerability of the actors (particularly Abraham Attah). Though the structure of the script differs from the novel it's based on, the essence of Uzodinma Iweala's words are clearly present in the best way possible. The elements of the film are also exemplary such as the eerie synthetic score, the mostly hand-held camera-work, and the editing (particularly a sequence that dazzles when the natural color of the environment fades into a sobering pink). And it would be a crime to not mention Idris Elba's transformative performance (which will leave viewers eager to see more of his talent in the future). Much like 'Sin Nombre,' this is a brutally honest depiction of the nature of violence that never ceases to make you feel uncomfortable and horrified (though it it is not as explicit as 'True Detective'). Fukunaga is not just a talented filmmaker, but he is also a sympathetic anthropologist and a culturally-engaged humanist who seeks to learn more about people and to let the world know what they are ignorant of.

It Follows (2014)

A chilling take on 80s teen horror films

[10/10 · 10 March 2015]

From the moment the film opens to the last seconds, there is always a sense that something isn't right. The music is hinting at an inevitable threat, the camera is slowly panning or tracking in order to help reveal what is lurking, and the actors interactions with one another make the audience forget that at any moment "it" will appear. Director David Robert Mitchell does something that many horror-genre filmmakers have lost sight of: what scares people the most is their imagination. Yes, the film occasionally showcases some terrifying images, but it's the moments when everything seems fine where the fear skyrockets out of the audience. I'm not going to say that this is the scariest film I've ever seen, but when it resembles the thread of "A Nightmare on Elm Street," the tension of "Alien," and the style of "The Conjuring," it comes pretty close to it. It is very original, well executed, and a refreshing film for all cinephiles. But most importantly, it stays with you even after the movie ends and makes you question your actions...and your surroundings.

Heaven Adores You (2014)

A great tribute though not necessarily a great documentary

[6/10 · 27 May 2014]

I was able to catch the world premiere of this film in San Francisco. When I came in, I had absolutely no idea who Elliott Smith was, and that's what made this experience good. Elliott Smith is a very talented musician (as most fans already know), and it was a great choice from the director to use his music to move the film forward and to be a part of telling this story. But not even his music could make this "documentary" any less bland.

I put quotations over the word because this did not feel like a documentary, rather a nice tribute to a renowned artist. I give props to the director for helping introduce this young man, showing his awkwardness, humbleness, messy look, and troublesome upcoming into the music industry. But what starts out as a promising look into Elliott Smith's mind is ultimately diminished by lack of substance. I felt that there wasn't enough of Elliott Smith's own perspective of himself, rather memories of family and friends. And though memories can be exciting, funny, etc., there is still something missing from the entirety of a memory when told to people who weren't there.

When watching the movie, it is obvious that the director has background in cinematography because there are some beautifully filmed things. But the shots are so gratuitous. Quite frankly, it drove me crazy to see shots of Portland after a while because it took up almost half the movie! The film shouldn't have revolved around Portland, rather Portland should have been an aspect of Elliott Smith's career.

Overall, this movie is definitely more for fans than for those who don't know about him.

The One I Love (2014)

What to expect

[6/10 · 8 May 2014]

So I recently saw this film having no idea what it was about, and I'm glad I saw it without having seen a trailer or reading a synopsis because my review/warning can be more honest and less bias.

First off, I want to explain that this is mostly going to be a warning rather than a review, but I won't spoil anything critical to the movie. I want to begin by saying that there is one particularly huge plot hole that will leave some people annoyed (I was one of those people). Secondly, the last fifteen minutes of this film is very strange and a bit confusing. Genre-wise, this is a science fiction comedy. The combination of the two is interesting in this one. Finally, after you watch this movie you will feel one of these ways: disgusted, confused, satisfied, or entertained. I don't think anyone will absolutely love this film, but then again I may be giving a bias opinion.

Now for my review: Though I found this film to be hilarious, it is also a let down for me. I think Elisabeth Moss and Mark Duplass are good actors, but one of two things happened in this movie. 1) They were cheated from the director, or 2) they were the wrong choice for the two leads. Their chemistry was excellent, but there is something in the film (which I won't spoil) that shows another side of their acting and that side I didn't like entirely. The setting is gorgeous, the lighting is great, and the imagery is pretty (the cinematography is not great though). The script is funny, and there is a unique premise to it. Unfortunately, the ending is a little muddled and I wish I had known if the writer intended it to end the movie another way. Overall, I honestly can't decide whether I would recommend this film or not. It's kind of like convincing someone who is scared easily to see a really good scary movie, except in this case I am a confused person trying to say as much as I can about the film without giving away any critical aspects of the movie. I guess when (or if) you see a trailer, you should decide yourself if this is something you'd want to see.

Eastern Boys (2013)

Patience is required

[7/10 · 5 May 2014]

I had heard some things about the film before I went to see it, otherwise I had no idea what to expect. From the synopsis, there is a minor spoiler. So if you don't think about the synopsis too much, then you will enjoy the first 20 minutes of the film even more. Just an FYI, there are no subtitles when the characters are not speaking French. I don't understand why they did that, but it doesn't harm the movie. A caution to any people interested, the movie does begin slow for the first 10 minutes. Following that is a slow, tense build though, which works well.

What makes this movie excellent is the twists and turns the story takes. You think it's going in one direction, then suddenly it does a 360 without any warning. I know that can be bad at times, but for this movie it's actually executed very well. The acting is great, particularly the main character, the leader of the gang and the female hotel manager (she is very important to the film). One of the most interesting parts of the story is its take on love and trust.

The only issues I have are the technical aspects, such as dark lighting and some odd cinematography.

Overall, I would recommend this film. I'm sorry I can't say a lot about the film because saying one thing would spoil something important about the film.

Words and Pictures (2013)

A great premise flawed once again

[5/10 · 4 May 2014]

Clive Owen and Juliette Binoche are excellent actors, even when given clichéd and mundane scripts, such as this one. "Words and Pictures" begins with an interesting concept, what speaks better: words or pictures? Clive Owen plays an English honors teacher who, in his private life, struggles with alcohol and a relationship with his son. Juliette Binoche plays a well renounced artist battling a disease that makes it hard for her to use certain techniques when painting and has landed herself as an Arts honor teacher. The chemistry between the two is pretty believable. And there are moments when the two show off their fine acting skills, because quite frankly they are what lead the story. Director Fred Schepisi lacks the talent he had when directing romantic comedies such as "Roxanne," and Gerald Di Pego once again shows that he has yet to improve on his writing. What starts out as a great premise ultimately gets muddled by unnecessary aspects. The acting of the students is honestly very corny. The audience has no sympathy for them what so ever. Though the audience gets a few laughs in, the story is just not thought out well enough to achieve what it wants.

Boyhood (I) (2014)

Life at its most audacious

[10/10 · 3 May 2014]

There is something people should know before watching this movie, and that is that it takes place from 2002 to 2014. I grew up in that same generation, so as I watched this movie I felt like I was growing up all over again seeing the references to pop culture, society, politics, middle school, high school, and technology. It was incredible to experience that. And even for those who weren't children growing up in those 12 years will still feel a sense of going back in time. There was not one moment that I thought wasn't needed. In fact, I and the rest of the audience wished there had been more going on.

The plot is very simple: what does it mean to grow up, become an adult, and live? And as the years go by, it becomes apparent that Mason (the main character) is struggling to find his place in life. Though there are a few struggles he encounters and some thematic material, overall the movie is hilarious and real. From Richard Linklater's previous films, I've noticed that the dialogue all feels real (to a point where I feel like I'm interacting with the characters). And it is so well done in this film.

Speaking of Linklater, I see an Oscar nomination for directing coming his way. As he sat down for Q&A on Boyhood, one of the things he said that struck the audience was that he thought it was funny that people who saw "Boyhood" told him he improved as a director. This was funny to him because one of the first rules he made before filming in 2002 was that he could not change as a director for the sake of the movie to have no continuity errors (especially so the tone didn't change). The only improvement going on is the superb acting from Ethan Hawke, Patricia Arquette, and (of course) Ellar Coltrane.

With probably the best ending I've ever seen for a movie and a story guided by a talented director, "Boyhood" is the most powerful and unique coming-of-age film ever made and it will be proclaimed as a classic for the years to come.

The Sacrament (2013)

"This is the last sacrament."

[7/10 · 29 April 2014]

Most people seem to dislike the "found-footage" genre, though I personal like to see what stories filmmakers can create and develop it as a found-footage (mostly horror). I did like the first 3 installments of "Paranormal Activity," I absolutely loved "Cloverfield," and "The Blair Witch Project" did scare me. Thus, if you found more than one of these repulsive, ignore my review. I will also warn that this is obviously not a movie for everyone. After watching this movie, I can say that I came out very disturbed and mortified, which was Ti West's intentions (I presume). The whole film feels very real, and I did enjoy Gene Jones and Amy Seimitz's terrifyingly surreal acting. Most people will see this movie knowing how it'll end since it's based on the Jonestown massacre (don't look this up if you don't know it!!!), but that doesn't mean there weren't other aspects of the movie that weren't entertaining. For what the movie is about, I was surprised to still be jumping in my seat and breathing heavily at moments of great suspense. My only complaints about the film were some of the choices Ti West chose to move the story (those moments where the audience knows they are doing something very stupid and it feels unrealistic that they would do that to begin with). Some criticism I've heard is that it takes forever to get to the "good" parts. I'm going to argue that that is false criticism unless you are only looking to watch a 95 minute movie filled with terror and suspense. Yes, the first half of the movie doesn't have very much suspense, but there is still a chilling mood creeping up every minute. Plus, the chemistry between the actors is great and entertaining!

Tracks (I) (2013)

There is more to the desert than meets the eye.

[9/10 · 27 April 2014]

I had been very excited about this movie after seeing the trailer. The story is exhilarating and after watching movies like "Into the Wild" and "127 Hours," I was waiting to see what was in store. As I sat down in my seat to see this at the San Francisco Film Festival I decided to erase all anticipation of the movie and just sit. The lights dimmed down, the audience shuffled into comfortable positions, and then began the movie. Almost two hours passed, and the film's credits began. The audience sat in their seats, myself included. We were mesmerized by John Curran's adaptation, Mia Wasikowska's tremendous performance, and Mandy Walker's impeccably/beautifully captured imagery. What stood out to me the most, though, was the perspectives of isolation and companionship. Marion Nelson did a fantastic job at taking the elements of the autobiography that gave us those perspectives, and as we watched Mia struggle through the desert with her four camels, dog, and occasionally the photographer (played by a genuine Adam Driver), we all began to understand her points of views in life as well as ourselves. So much motif was done with the desert, which I have to applaud John Curran for doing. I will be seeing this film again when it is released, and I hope you will too!

The Two Faces of January (2014)

How do I sum this up...

[5/10 · 27 April 2014]

The Two Faces of January was the opening night showing for the San Francisco Film Festival. Everyone was excited to see Hossein Amini's adaptation of Patricia Highsmith's thriller. As the director/writer presented his film to us, he explained that he hoped he did her justice because he loved the book as a college student and thought it had to be made. And, though, I haven't read the book, I have a feeling that the justice to this film was very little. Running barely over an hour and a half, this film felt too fast. I felt the character development was too little, the protagonist wasn't likable, and story seemed to go from one thing to another. Viggo Mortensen was the star of the film. As always, he gave a powerful performance even with what he had to work with. Oscar Isaac had his moments, but I felt Kirsten Dunst was given nothing to work with. Hossein Amini is not ready to direct (in my opinion). Throughout the film, I saw all these shots that were gratuitous, odd cuts, and directing choices with the actors and extras that just didn't work. I also felt cheated of Patricia Highsmith's story. There seemed to be so much missing, and perhaps it is the book that does this. The use of the city is great, but looking at beautiful architecture and landscapes gets old easily.

Short Term 12 (2013)

The snub of the year

[10/10 · 19 January 2014]

After seeing this movie, I realized how the Academy works. If a movie doesn't have the budget to distribute their film to a vast amount of cities or campaign well, then it is unlikely to get its deserved recognition. I sat through the 96 minutes of this Indie film that got raved with impressive reviews at SXSW to see what the fuss was about. The people behind this movie deserve SO much more praise than they have gotten. This film, though not technically masterful, is emotionally wrenching. I laughed, I freaking cried my heart out, and overall it felt real. There was a connection to the film that was surprisingly amazing. The movie reminded me to Blue is the Warmest Color in the sense that it was raw, powerful, real, and astonishing. Brie Larson should have easily been one of the five nominees for Best Actress as well as Keith Stanfield for Best Supporting Actor. This film is a portrayal of neglected youth, a rare look at relationships, an articulation of the fears in the world, and a new point of view that most films have never shown before. I truly recommend this film to everyone, and will always give it the praise it deserves.

Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

Sooooooooooo good

[10/10 · 21 October 2012]

I was fortunate enough to make it into the Austin Film Festival screening of this film, and my god it was worth the wait. David O. Russel has outdone himself with this beautiful portrayal of a dysfunctional family searching for a way to come together. Bradley Cooper has won me finally with his odd and hilarious character. Jennifer Lawrence is dashing as ever with the hysterical role of Tiffany, a depressed woman trying to find a way out of her issues. This whole film has powerhouse performances, a laugh-out-loud script with heart, and a way to get the audience attached to its likable characters. I definitely recommend this film to everyone, and you are sure to see this as Osacr buzz.

Argo (2012)

Ben Affleck with another hit

[10/10 · 14 October 2012]

I'm going to be very honest: Ben Affleck is not a good actor, rather descent. But as a director, Ben Affleck is INCREDIBLE, whether you want to admit it or not. Gone Baby Gone and The Town showed that Affleck had skill/talent behind the screen, but he has proved himself as one of the big boys with Argo. The film has a very beautiful mixture of tension, drama, and even dark comedy. The casting is totally phenomenal with how much each actor emulates the real person. Since this is a true story, most people will go see this knowing the outcome, but the film isn't about the outcome, but rather the outrageous tactic the CIA took to bring back the Americans. This film is no doubt an Oscar candidate for it's achieving script, performances, and direction. A must see indeed, go check out Argo.

Pitch Perfect (2012)

A great teen flick for all

[8/10 · 13 October 2012]

Lately, the movie industry has been preying on teens with stupid, underdeveloped, and unoriginal films. Pitch Perfect is a stylish and bouncy film about a cappella singing groups who know how to make a show. Though the story is not necessarily original, the way the film is presented is what makes it thrive. Rebel Wilson and Hana Mae Lee practically own this film with their hilarious performances. Anna Kendrick is as impressive as ever. Brittany Snow shows off her talents of singing and acting. Overall, this is a fun film to watch. If the singing and remixes of songs don't get to you, the characters and little love story will. I highly recommend this film for anyone who wants to enjoy themselves and get a very good laugh.

Sinister (I) (2012)

Finally, a horror worth seeing

[7/10 · 13 October 2012]

The past few years have not shown anything worth being scared by. The found footage genres, though as clever as they can be, are running dry. Sinister, though, does something different with the found footage genre, as well as horror. This film is a straight forward ride into a disturbing and sadistic story of evil, with some clichéd and creative scares. Ethan Hawke is committed to his role 100 percent as the protagonist trying to find a story that will bring him fame once again. It is his lust for fame that proves to be his and his family's downfall. I truly believe this film will either scare you or indent it's gloomy/frightening imagery into your mind. Spectacular on visuals, creative on scares, and well acted by the leads, Sinister is a great way to start out the Halloween season.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

Chbosky's literature vision is now a beautiful motion picture film

[9/10 · 13 October 2012]

After hearing about this coming-of-age story, I insisted myself to read the book, in order to get an idea of what was to come from the film. To be honest, I was worried that this wasn't going to come out great, especially since the director was Chobsky (the author of the book) himself. Me saying that may surprise some people, but if you think about it, he's an author. Author's might not have the same abilities as directors do. I was proved so wrong. Chbosky DOMINATED this book into a superbly acted, brilliantly written, and well formatted film that will inspire many teens and adults. Ezra Miller is once again spectacular as the flamboyant mentor of the protagonist. Emma Watson is as lovely as always. And, for once, I was touched so deeply by Logan Lerman's acting. This film is not only proof of the talents of the actors, but of Chbosky's directing. Containing some beautiful imagery, powerful and devastating situations, this film is must see, and bound to get some Oscar buzz.

Looper (2012)

Rian Johnson...I love you

[10/10 · 29 September 2012]

Rian Johnson...he's extremely talented, and he definitely proves it with Looper, a mixture of sci-fi/1970s brutality. Joseph Gordon-Levitt is brilliant in this film, taking the task of mimicking Bruce Willis in a phenomenal way. The chemistry between the two leads in undeniably rude, comedic, and heart-breaking. But what makes this film profound is the story you think you know (based on the trailers). Let me tell you now, this film is not about a looper trying to kill his future self. There's far more to this film than that. What starts out as an action-packed thriller turns into a humanism story of the questions of right and wrong. Please go watch this film AS SOON AS POSSIBLE! If I was asked to recommend one film from 2012 to watch, it would have to be this one.

The Master (2012)

Recollection, imagination, exploration, and much more

[9/10 · 21 September 2012]

Paul Thomas Anderson has directed some of the finest films of our time. working with Phillip Seymor Hoffman again, this "dream team" has proved that the film industry is not based on teen flicks, slasher films, 3D, and visual effects. The Master is filled with thought-provoking moments, disturbing and wondrous situations, complexity in the characters, and a beautiful look at finding truth in the world. Jaoquin Phoenix is absolutely phenomenal, and will no doubt garner/win the Oscar this year for his frightening, compelling, and tragic role as Freddy. This film is not about Scientology, but rather a look into the lives of two very different men as they come together to fix the events in their lives that brought them together in the first place. Masterfuly directed, OUTSTANDINGLY acted, filmed with grace, and balanced with a haunting score, The Master is must see for those who love art. For people who enjoy going to see a movie, though, you have been warned that this may not be the film for you.

The Possession (I) (2012)

you call yourself a scary movie?

[4/10 · 2 September 2012]

So here's the problem I have: if you present a film a certain genre, I expect it to be that genre. The Possession, by the story and trailers, declares itself to be one of the scariest exorcism films ever. That allegation is TOTALLY FALSE. Running at 92 minutes, i'm expecting at least five scares, jumps, anything to get by the clichéd story told over and over before. If you're going to do the same story, at least change it up. What shocked me about this film the most was that Sam Raimi was involved. I've seen some scary projects of his, so one could say i was expecting a lot. Unfortunately, I was let down, as will many people looking forward to see a scary movie with Halloween coming up. And trust me when I say this movie wasn't scary, because I get scared at the littlest things, yet there was nothing to keep me jumping. Now, as a film, this movie relies on its cast, because everything else about this film (the editing, sound editing, same excessive shots, and laughable effects) makes it go crashing down. Honestly, don't go wasting any money on this film, ESPECIALLY if you want to get scared. I'm giving it 4 out of 10 because I love jeffrey dean morgan and kyra sedgwick, plus the two young female actresses were actually believable. I only hope that Sam Raimi and Ole Bornedal don't team up again.

A Separation (2011)

I heard it was good...but not THIS good

[10/10 · 22 August 2012]

As most will understand through the trailer, A Separation is about a couple preparing for a divorce but getting mixed up in a mistake the husband made. As the film crawls closer and closer to the conclusion, you're literally at the edge of your seat as new evidence are introduced, as the family is struggling with the court room situation and their own situation, and as we come to finding out the secrets everyone is trying to hide from the court. There's no way to describe how intriguing this film is, and even in the last seconds of the film, you're still at the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next. Undeniably a Oscar worthy film, the Iraqians have proved that the U.S. is not alone in the film industry. I'm hoping to see more films like this: intense, stressful, and emotional, minus all the sex, violence, substance use, and profanity. One issue people might have is the lack of music, but the quiet atmosphere nonetheless makes this film even more gut-wrenching. An excellent film indeed, now take my advice and see it!