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gregwolk
Reviews
The Mentor (2020)
Movie Biz Caper
It's rare for me to enjoy a movie about the film business, as they're often too self-indulgent, but "The Mentor" is original and insightful. The film biz is simply a backdrop, although being familiar with the industry will aid in understanding terminology, motivation, and plot. On the other hand, if you don't know about the film business, it's a way to learn about it while you enjoy a well-written, and wonderfully-acted caper film. Great job.
Hey Diddle Diddle (2010)
High School Reunion Angst
We've all been there. No matter how successful we think we are... or aren't, high school reunions are replete with anxiety. These things should be outlawed, but that's my own soapbox. I felt the lead character's angst and anxiety, relating to him throughout. Such a compelling and attractive cast.
The Stand Up Doll (2019)
This is Life
A documentary this genuine and insightful rarely comes along. Most force their message upon us. Here, all we must do is watch, and we learn the value of wisdom from a full and rich life. Perfect lockdown viewing to show us what's important.
Don't Call Me Bigfoot (2020)
Bigfoot Fan Film
I found this documentary very interesting and illuminating. Do I believe it all? Nope. Did I enjoy hearing everyone's views? Definitely. A well-crafted piece of filmmaking for anyone who loves Bigfoot or is simply curious, as I was.
Ring Ring (2019)
Horrible Bosses
What a surprise to find a Hollywood-quality film in an indie film! The directing, cinematography, acting and story were all exceptional. I related to the premise... as most would. Great job to the filmmakers.
His Father's Voice (2019)
Indian Cultural Immersion
During this shelter-in-place time, coming upon "His Father's Voice" was a welcome respite. I felt as though I were transported to India and got to experience the culture without fear of the dang coronavirus. Music and dance are the heart of this film, but they alone wouldn't have worked without a captivating story. The film had a very good-looking cast... which while not necessary, let's face it, who doesn't like to look a pretty women and men. More importantly, we liked and connected with the characters. An excellent film throughout.
The Back Pages (2017)
Twilight Zone Inspired
The favorite series of all time was The Twilight Zone. The Back Pages was inspired by this ground-breaking series, and conjures up seven very watchable episodes full of intrigue and originality. Done on the indie level, and being this good, makes me wonder what could be done with much more money. A good story on a low budget is always better than a bad story in a big budget.
Silent Panic (2018)
Good Scenery and Premise
This indie film focuses on the inner conflict that results from deciding whether to report a crime or not. It's not a subject matter that's been the subject of a film, as far as I remember. The acting was spot-on but the very good-looking cast, and production values were high.
Risen: The Story of Chron 'Hell Razah' Smith (2020)
Hip-Hop Documentary
A friend told me to check out this documentary, so I did, even though I'd not previously heard of the the rapper, Hell Rajah. No matter, as it's a fascinating watch even for newbies to his music. The heart and energy put into the making of this doc is stunning, as is the rapper's spiritual and physical journey.
Confessions of a Producer (2020)
Unique Indie
I value originality in film -- despising sequels, prequels and ripoffs -- so I was pleasantly-surprised to come up this indie gem. With good writing and acting, this odd premise succeeds against the odds. As other reviewers have mentioned, this is a genre-bender. For me, that adds to the interest. After all, we don't live our lives within one genre, so why should films do so?
Hex (2017)
Horror Period Piece
No, "horror period piece" is not a scene from Carrie! Beautifully-filmed, designed, and acted, this supernatural premise within a historical drama works quite nicely. Not for the jump scare crowd, this is for lovers of slow-burn horror films. Don't miss it.
Sweet Sunshine (2020)
Heartwarming Family Film
"A Star is Born" was a big hit, and "Sweet Sunshine" is akin to a faith-based family film version of that mega-hit. It's a very heartwarming story, but one filled with struggle that must be overcome. Faith-based films can be corny, but this one is not. Great cast and production!
Lion Killer (2019)
Martial Arts and Inner Journey
Lion Killer isn't what I expected at all. Much better, actually. Beautifully-filmed, well-acted by a good-looking cast, and with a very interesting story about battling inner demons through martial arts. An adult version of The Karate Kid, one might say, although that doesn't do it justice.
Simbi_Xombies (2019)
WTF
Do you avoid the derivative and seek out originality? If so, Ximbi XombiX is right up your alley. It's a hodgepodge of styles, with a storyline that is unbelievable -- but we don't care... we want to believe it! It's been a long time since I watched a film and couldn't guess where it was going. That was quite freeing. Watch without preconception and enjoy the journey! Sounds like a "taste the rainbow" commercial, and that's not far from the truth.
Love Is Not Enough (2019)
Fresh Romantic Comedies
I love romantic comedies -- not the sugarcoated Hallmark variety -- ones that show the good, bad and ugly about dating today. We all can relate to the characters and what they are going through. And what a great... and very attractive! cast it is! Let's face it. That makes any movie easier to watch. Thank god for a film with a majority African-American cast that is not a Medea film. Don't miss this one!
Loners (2019)
Funny Satire
Satires are funny because they're scarily close to reality, and the same is true of "Loners." I'm a loner, and I can easily see the government rounding up people like me. The government is broken. Do you trust your government? Then you won't see the point of this film. Enough of my rant. This film hits all the marks even aside from nailing the story -- acting, production values, directing... all excellent. Knowing this is an indie film makes this even more surprising.
Into the Void (2019)
Thoughtful Post-Apocalyptic Zombie Film
This very watchable film does not depict the kind of post-apocalyptic world of The Walking Dead or Mad Max -- of which I'm glad. Yes, there is some zombie rampaging going on, but it's also the internal struggle of the characters. I love zombie films that aren't cliched, and this is one of them. The performances are solid; the cast is hot; the scenery is eerie, and the zombie kills are convincing. Very good indie film.
Stadium Anthems (2018)
Smart and Raunchy
They say that the only industry more sleazy than the film industry is the music industry, so it's interested to see a film about the music industry. It's a rockumentary--one of my favorite genres--because there are no rules. Thank god for smart, raunchy films.
Purdah (2018)
Must-Watch Documentary
For many of us, docs are not the go-to films we surf on VOD platforms. But after seeing too many horrible narratives, I decided it was time for my doc dose. I am so glad I came upon Purdah. Hopeful and heart-breaking film. With any doc, we must have empathy for the real-life characters. As part of the lgbtq community, I know what it's like to be persecuted on a daily basis -- both mentally and physically -- so I could certainly relate to Purdah. Perfect time for this film, as the world is finally starting to pay attention to women's struggles for equality.
Ekaj (2015)
Fresh, Well-Crafted, Unexpected
Ekaj is an impressive piece of filmmaking, a masterful snapshot of the gritty, urban landscape inhabited by a handful of young men whose lives are interesting to follow, if not lives to emulate. The film left me with many mixed emotions, and that's the sign of a successful film--one that elicits an emotional reaction.