2020 in FILM
JANUARY
1. ANNA AND THE APOCALYPSE
John McPhail
2017 / Musical Horror / 93mins
Synopsis: A zombie apocalypse takes over the local high school, the teens must survive while hold up inside.
Review: Juxtaposition between joyful songs and horrific gore was funny.
Rating: 60
2. BAD TIMES AT THE EL ROYALE
Drew Goddard
2018 / Mystery Thriller / 140mins
Synopsis: In 1969, seven shady strangers meet in a deserted hotel with a dark past.
Review: Intriguing, until its not.
Rating: 43.
3. HOTEL ARTEMIS
Drew Pearce
2018 / Action Thriller / 93mins
Synopsis: A nurse runs a secret hospital for the criminals.
Review: Forgettable Sci fi dystopia.
Rating: 30.
4. BUMBLEBEE
Travis Knight
2018 / Action Sci Fi / 114mins
Synopsis: The origin story of Bumblebee, everyone's favourite autobot.
Review: Robots finally got featured more.
Rating: 72.
5. TAG
Jeff Tomsie
2018 / Comedy / 101mins
Synopsis: A group of friends have been playing tag for 30 years, before the wedding of the undefeated tag champion they organise one last game which spirals out of control.
Review: Fun mindless comedy with unsatisfying ending.
Rating: 57.
6. GRETA
Neil Jordan
2018 / Drama Thriller / 98mins
Synopsis: Frances returns a bag she finds on a train to its owner, Greta, a seemingly normal woman.
Review: Eerie isabelle huppert performance and interesting little thriller.
Rating: 54.
7. THE KID WHO WOULD BE KING
Joe Cornish
2019 / Family Fantasy / 120mins
Synopsis: Alex must rise to become the hero he was born to be with the help from some friends and excalibur.
Review: Not so great, acting a bit stiff. Action not bad.
Rating: 32.
8. LITTLE MONSTERS
Abe Forsythe
2019 / Comedy Horror / 94mins
Synopsis: A Primary school teacher must navigate the minefield of zombies whilst protecting her class and keeping them calm.
Review: Hilarious lead, and great supporting cast. A really enjoyable zombie comedy.
Rating: 62.
9. MISSING LINK
Chris Butler
2019 / Animation Family / 93mins
Synopsis: Mr. Link, a bigfoot, recruits the fearless explorer Sir Lionel Frost to guide him to his ancestors.
Review: Gorgeous animation and adventurous story, shame about the ending not being as climatic.
Rating: 66.
10. BOOK SMART
Olivia Wilde
2019 / Comedy Teen / 105mins
Synopsis: Two teenage girls who study hard, realise they are missing out on the best years of their lives. They put down the books and pick up a drink at their first party.
Review: Two great performances, hilarious superbad-like comedy.
Rating: 79.
FEBRUARY
11. SYNECDOCHE, NEW YORK
Charlie Kaufman
2008 / Drama / 123mins
Synopsis: A theatre director working on a new project is going through a crisis as the boundaries between fantasy and reality are blurred.
Review: Phillip Seymour Hoffman is a powerhouse in this, makeup is excellent, best aging I've seen in a film. Film perfectly plays with editing to establish the characters struggle with reality and time. Amazing ensemble.
Rating: 72.
12. ARLINGTON ROAD
Mark Pellington
1999 / Thriller Mystery / 119mins
Synopsis: When suspicious neighbours move in next door Michael's curious nature gets the better of him.
Review: Great conspiracy thriller with an unexpected twist.
Rating: 78.
13. I LOST MY BODY
Jérémy Clapin
2019 / Animation Fantasy / 81mins
Synopsis: A severed hand attempts to reunite with its body.
Review: Odd premise with beautiful animation. Rats have never felt so menacing. Poetic story about fate.
Rating: 82.
14. MARRIAGE STORY
Noah Baumbach
2019 / Romance Drama / 137mins
Synopsis: A marriage comes to a gruelling end.
Review: Most heart wrenching thing I've seen in a while. Felt suffocated. Great film, but unenjoyable in a good way. Intense and realistic arguments in the empty LA apartment, had me gawping.
Rating: 83.
15. UNCUT GEMS
Safdie Brothers
2019 / Crime Dark Comedy / 135mins
Synopsis: Financially struggling jewelry shop owner takes a gamble of a lifetime.
Review: Uncomfortable watching and very nail bitting. A deam Sandler delivers a surprise good performance.
Rating: 81.
16. PARASITE (in cinema)
Bong Joon Ho
2019 / Thriller Comedy / 132mins
Synopsis: A poor family infiltrate a rich family much like a parasite.
Review: Fantastic film with lots of twists and turns. Kept me gripped until the end. A story of two halves, one about the Kim's families ruthless integration into the Parks family home and the other about a dark secret buried deep within.
Rating: 93.
17. READY OR NOT
Matt Bettinelli-Olpin / Tyler Gillett
2019 / Horror Thriller / 95mins
Synopsis: A woman marries into a new family with bizarre traditions. They must partake in a game chosen at random on their wedding night.
Review: Fun suspenseful comedy horror. Exactly what I expected in a good way. Except the ending, which was good, just unexpected.
Rating: 70.
18. KILLING OF A SACRED DEER
Yorgos Lanthimos
2017 / Thriller Horror / 121mins
Synopsis: A surgeons family is held hostage by a deranged vengeful boy.
Review: Odd emotionless delivery of lines made it feel sterile. Lost focus at parts but overall an interesting film with much to discuss.
Rating: 62.
19. US
Jordan Peele
2019 / Horror Thriller / 116mins
Synopsis: A family is visited by another family who bare striking resemblances.
Review: Not as good as expected. Competent but lacking in entertainment and intrigue.
Rating: 57.
20. SHOPLIFTERS
Hirokazu Kore-eda
2018 / Drama / 121mins
Synopsis: A family of Misfits discover a child alone and lost. They decide to informally adopt her and teach her their ways of surviving.
Review: A touching story about family. And what makes a parent a parent. Great child actors.
Rating: 84.
MARCH
21. THE KING OF COMEDY
Martin Scorsese
1982 / Dark Comedy / 109mins
Synopsis: Struggling comedian dreams of making it big, when his dream doesn't become a reality he tries something a bit more drastic.
Review: Joker definitely ripped this off and its the better film although I still like the Joker. Robert de Niro and Scorsese are great together, it has the same feel as taxi driver. Sleezy under belly of New York, an unhinged psychotic protagonist with thoughts of grandeur, fed up with the way life is treating him.
Rating: 87.
22. SUSPIRIA (1977)
Dario Argento
1977 / Horror Mystery / 99mins
Synopsis: Suzy Bannon travels to Germany to join a dance company unfortunately they have a dark secret.
Review: Never boring, very majestic and bizarre. The score by Goblins is amazing although maybe too loud. The ending is very abrupt but I liked it, some films go on too long after the end.
Rating: 77.
23. RALPH BREAKS THE INTERNET
Rich Moore / Phil Johnston
2018 / Family Animation / 112mins
Synopsis: A WIFI router is installed into the arcade opening up a world of wacky possibilities.
Review: The Disney princesses were funny, story was interesting enough with some intuitive WIFI concepts.
Rating: 62.
24. KNIVES OUT
Rian Johnson
2019 / Mystery Comedy / 130mins
Synopsis: When the wealthy patriarch of a family of money-hungry relatives turns up dead, a detective is called in to solve the mystery.
Review: Fantastic whodunit with lots of twists I didn't see coming. A really treat of cinema. Fun, funny and unpredictable.
Rating: 89.
25. HOLES
Andrew Davis
2003 / Family Adventure / 117mins
Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats IV is forced to dig, day in, day out. To find what? They don't know?
Review: Interesting ideas and fun film. Rating: 52.
26. ALADDIN (2019)
Guy Ritchie
2019 / Fmaily Romance / 128mins
Synopsis: Aladdin uses a magic lamp to become rich and powerful.
Review: Dreadful adaptation of the classic animation. Two new songs that didn't really fit the tone of the originals and all old songs underwhelmingly performed. One good scene with awkwardness between newly wished Prince Ali and Princess jasmine and Co. But other than that the film was less impressive overall.
Rating: 21.
27. CUBE
Vincenzo Natali
1997 / Horror Sci Fi / 90mins
Synopsis: A group of strangers are trapped in a deadly maze of cubes and must escape.
Review: Very gruesome deaths, late 90s CGI felt dated but not overused. Ingenious low budget plot. Quentin went a little too crazy but not totally illogical. Shame the end was just a white light, would've liked to know what happened next.
Rating: 41.
28. THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS
Tim Wardle
2018 / Documentary Drama / 96mins
Synopsis: Three identical twins are separated at birth only to be reunited later in life.
Review: Interesting documentary about nature vs nurture. Experimenting with twin siblings being fostered into separate homes and seeing how they turn out.
Rating: 72.
APRIL
29. WON'T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR
Morgan Neville
2018 / Documentary / 93mins
Synopsis: Film maker Morgan Neville examines the life and legacy of Mr. Rogers.
Review: Really made me feel about how I've treated others over the years and how I could do more to show my love and appreciation to others. And to be thankful for the people around me.
Rating: 90.
30. ANT-MAN AND THE WASP
Peyton Reed
2018 / Action Comic Book / 118mins
Synopsis: Ant man fights evil part two.
Review: Contrived plot points really ruined my interest. Some unique (I use that lightly) uses of the shrink mechanic but despite the fun concept they don't do much inventive with it. With my interest waning with the story it was the duty of the action to enlighten me, which it didn't.
Rating: 42.
31. MARY AND MAX
Adam Elliot
2009 / Animation Drama / 94mins
Synopsis: A chance encounter brings together pen pals Mary and Max from across the world. Cataloging their miserable experiences.
Review: Old Burton esque Black and white stop motion animation. The story was very depressing but more in an informative way as apposed to a difficult to watch way. Tale of two pen pals, Mary from Australia and Max from New York. Both struggle with social acceptance and understanding. Max is diagnosed aspergers. Two simple but curious minds with lots of deep issue bond over asking and answering each others bizarre questions. The film is drenched in meloncholy but oddly chirpy. I slowly grew tired of the same old song.
Rating: 65.
32. ONCE
John Carney
2007 / Musical Romance / 90mins
Synopsis: A girl meets a boy in Dublin and helps him put together a demo disc of his music performances.
Review: A charming lovely story with two believable characters coming together through a passion of music. The story felt so real mostly because of the guerilla shooting of the film, but also due to the simple yet brilliantly told story. The music was fantastic, pop folk similar to Damien Rice, kept me engaged throughout. Although sceptical as to whether I'd like the film from the opening it began to grow on me and bring a smile to my face.
Rating: 62.
33. LADIES IN BLACK
Bruce Beresford
2018 / Drama Comedy / 109mins
Synopsis: Lisa, a shy schoolgirl, takes a job in Sydney's prestigious department store Goode's. There, her life is changed forever when she meets the "ladies in black."
Review: A heartwarming ensemble film about a group of ladies that work within a retail store in Australia. The interactions in the store was reminiscent of what actually happens often which made me laugh. The film was very funny. The characters individual stories were well weaved throughout, with none feeling too cliché and just as you thought they would it stopped. The film felt like a classic film. A great Sunday afternoon relaxed feel good film.
Rating: 64.
34. THE GREAT GATSBY
Baz Luhrmann
2013 / Romance Drama / 143mins
Synopsis: Nick Carraway, a World War I veteran who moves to New York with the hope of making it big, finds himself attracted to Jay Gatsby and his flamboyant lifestyle.
Review: Felt it was unfair the way Gatsby was treated and how Tom had everything yet wasn't satisfied. How he should not have been killed. Story was great, the style of the film was odd to begin. Grew on me though. But halfway through it toned down the excessive style and became a more standard film. Altogether good. Tobey Macguire isn't very talented though.
Rating: 55.
35. BEGIN AGAIN
John Carney
2013 / Romance Drama / 105mins
Synopsis: A recently split up singer-songwriter and an alcoholic studio producer freshly fired work together to create a new album.
Review: The songs are catchy. Adam Levine cannot act and his drama with Keira Knightley was borderline soap opera-ish. It had no need to be in the movie quite as long as it did. That being said, the movie was very sweet.
Rating: 59.
36. LONG SHOT
Jonathan Levine
2019 / Rom-com / 124mins
Synopsis: A politician hires a down to earth journalist willing to speak his mind as her speechwriter.
Review: Average film with funny parts throughout. Charlize and Seth work well together. Your usual Seth Rogen stoner comedy but slightly more mature. Enjoyable, forgettable.
Rating: 50.
37. DARKEST HOUR
Joe Wright
2017 / War Drama / 125mins
Synopsis: British Prime Minister Winston Churchill is faced with a tough choice as he must decide whether to sign a peace treaty with Adolf Hitler's Germany or continue fighting the war against them.
Review: Gary Oldman takes home the Oscar in this career defining performance. Absolutely empowering British patriotism.
Rating: 78.
38. TREASURE PLANET
Ron Clements / John Musker
2002 / Adventure Animation / 95mins
Synopsis: A restless teen journeys across the universe as a cabin boy aboard a spaceship. Later, he discovers that a trusted friend is actually a scheming pirate with mutiny on his mind.
Review: Fantastic animation, very different than the usual with a mix of 2D cartoon animations and a more 3D animation style. Great villain, not the usual this is a tyranical Disney villain which I enjoyed a lot.
Rating: 74.
39. ALAN PARTRIDGE: ALPHA PAPA
Declan Lowney
2013 / Action Comedy / 121mins
Synopsis: DJ Alan Partridge becomes an unlikely negotiator when the radio station is held hostage by a disgruntled Pat Farrell, Alan's colleague, who is afraid of losing his job after the radio station is sold.
Review: Very funny throughout, if you're a fan of Alan partridge you should enjoy this.
Rating: 66.
MAY
40. THE POST
Steven Spielberg
2017 / Drama History / 117mins
Synopsis: Publisher Katharine and her editor-in-chief Ben put their careers and freedom at risk to uncover a scandalous decades-long secret about the Vietnam War.
Review: Thrilling tale of US presidential cover ups of the unwinnable Vietnam War. Great ensamble and a touching finale of female empowerment.
Rating: 71.
41. HORSE GIRL
Jeff Baena
2020 / Drama / 104mins
Synopsis: Sarah, a shy introverted woman is slowly falling into insanity.
Review: Very bizarre. Might have been on board with a more ambiguous ending. Maybe she's clinically insane? Or it is aliens? The ending left me confused and wishing it didn't try to spell everything out. I liked Alison Brie in this, quite the show.
Rating: 57.
42. MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS Kenneth Branagh
2017 / Mystery Crime / 114mins
Synopsis: After a murder takes place aboard a train, a detective decides to investigate the matter and uncover the truth.
Review: Hercule Poirot played flamboyantly brilliant by Kenneth Brennegh. The tale was entertaining but hard to follow the many connections between the victim and the people on board as there were many different components. The twist was predictable towards the end until then though it wasn't as clear.
Rating: 54.
43. PORTRAIT OF A LADY ON FIRE
Celine Sciamma
2019 / Romance Drama / 119mins
Synopsis: Marianne, a painter, is commissioned to do a portrait, in secret, of Heloise as a wedding gift to her betroved.
Review: A very beautiful and sensual film. The way the film focused on every detail of the subject and how they grew closer was very natural. Incredibly acted throughout and amazing cinematography, with lots of pastoral tones reminiscent of a painting. One of the most romantic films I've ever seen and the ending brought me to tears. Incredible experience.
Rating: 95.
44. THE GO BETWEEN
Joseph Losey
1971 / Romance Drama / 118mins
Synopsis: A child is used to send messages between to lovers entangled in an affair.
Review: Very slow film, was intrigued to begin with. The ideas of curses seemed to peak my interest. But it failed to develop anything quickly enough with a payoff not worth the wait. Decent child actor for the times though.
Rating: 44.
45. 1917
Sam Mendes
2019 / War Drama / 119mins
Synopsis: During World War I two soldiers must prevent a German ambush by delivering new orders to the front line.
Review: Stunning cinematography, especially loved the flares scene and the ending rush! Two scenes that will go down in cinema history. The one takes were meticulous rehearsed and it paid off. Very reminiscent of "Dunkirk's" bleak and dialogue light feel. A great film, with intense anxiety inducing action.
Rating: 88.
46. ONWARD
Dan Scanlon
2020 / Fantasy Adventure / 102mins
Synopsis: After discovering a wand, two brothers go on an adventure in an attempt to resurrect their father.
Review: Lacked interest in the beginning, but grew on me. The second half was a lot stronger. The themes were well told and explored. Funny at times but not quite a comedy. Wouldn't recommend. Disneys film structure is beginning to become tiring.
Rating: 60.
47. JOJO RABBIT
Taika Wahiti
2019 / War Comedy / 108mins
Synopsis: Jojo, a peppy charming Nazi child with an imaginary friend, Adolf Hitler. He joins a Nazi boot camp in order to further himself in the ranks, all the while consealing a Jew.
Review: not as funny as I was hoping. But had its moments. Taika as Hitler was very funny and Sam rockwell was brilliant. The accents were terrible but I guess that's on purpose and didn't matter. "fuck you Hitler!" was a good way to send off. And Rebel Wilson priming a grenade strapped to a child saying, "give the Americans a hug" was hilarious. Other than that I liked it but doubt I'll rewatch.
Rating: 54.
48. SONIC THE HEDGEHOG
Jeff Fowler
2020 / Family Comedy / 100mins
Synopsis: Sonic ends up trapped on Earth, he tries to keep discreet but eventually his cover is blown by an evil genius scientist, Dr. Robotnik.
Review: very enjoyable with lots of funny moments. Very light hearted and charming kids movie. Jim carrey was great as the maniacal Dr. Robotnik. Didn't take itself seriously which helped.
Rating: 69.
JUNE
49. GAME NIGHT
John Francis Daley / Jonathan Goldstein
Synopsis: A group of friends get together for their regular game night, this time Max's brother shows up, a rich and successful eccentric wanting a more extreme form of game...
Review: Really solid action comedy reminiscent of older action movies. Very well written and acted. Jesse Plemons was convincingly creepy. Laughed throughout and was surprised by the many twist and turns.
Rating: 71.
JULY
50. INVISIBLE MAN
Leigh Whannell
2020 / Horror Thriller / 125mins
Synopsis: After escaping the abusive grips of a wealthy tech tycoon, Cecillia attempts to live a normal life, but she can't escape the feeling of being watched.
Review: The horror just keeps on intensifying. Long empty frames builds the tension with your eyes darting all over to catch a glimpse of a moving object. When the first real movement happens it could just be gravity, but you doubt it. A film very much about gaslighting and abuse. It will keep you guessing throughout and I never felt comfortable with the direction this film led me, in a brilliant way. A very entertaining thrill ride that kept me excited throughout.
Rating: 86.
51. THE FAREWELL
Lulu Wang
2019 / Drama Comedy / 100mins
Synopsis: An American/Chinese girl travels back to China to see her grandmother after she learns she is dying.
Review: A great family feel good movie. The acting was solid throughout with plenty of charm and humour. Interesting to see the cultural differences between the two countries. Well worth the watch.
Rating: 73.
52. WOMAN AT WAR
Benedikt Erlingsson
2018 / Comedy Drama / 101mins
Synopsis: Icelandic film about a woman fighting a war against environmental damage. She battles against a Chinese smelting factory by sabotaging the power supply. She is resourceful as she attacks singlehandedly.
Review: Beautiful shot film with a fantastic score. The band that score the film show up throughout in random locations with their instruments to play. Adding a fun comedic tone with fourth wall breaking. Great double perfomance from the main actress playing both twins.
Rating: 61.
53. THE FOUNDER
John Lee Hancock
2016 / Drama History / 115mins
Synopsis: The story of how McDonald's became so widespread, From its humble beginnings in San Bernidino to the gradual overtaking from a greedy business man.
Review: An interesting true story, Michael Keaton is great as always, swaying from persuasive business mogul to unhinged penniless mad man. Nothing too fancy, just a well told story.
Rating: 74.
54. THE GENTLEMAN
Guy Ritchie
2019 / Action Comedy / 113mins
Synopsis: Hugh Grant plays a smarmy cockney private eye explaining the information he has gathered to Charlie Hunnam's character.
Review: The plot jumps back and forth between the two characters and the story Hugh Grant is telling with excellent pacing. The characters all start off unlikeable but somehow Guy Ritchie wins you over. The characters despite being scummy are unique and their problems are relatable and often funny. Enjoyed the watch, some very entertaining performances. Hugh grant and Colin Farrell to name two. Would recommend a watch.
Rating: 75.
AUGUST
55. TENET
Christopher Nolan
2020 / Action Sci Fi / 150mins
Synopsis: A secret agent known only as the protagonists must prevent world war III with the use of time inversion.
Review: Nolan has finally gone and overcomplicated the plot and focused less on enjoyability. That said the film had me interested but I feel it was due to my hype and high expectations, on reflection the film was very disappointing. Lack lustre ending battle, felt like nothing was happen. Definitely didn't feel like two armies at war, yet that is what we are told to believe. The film is a massive gimmick that tries too hard to sell a convoluted idea. I never felt the characters were in peril, maybe because I knew with time travel they would have to return later in the movie. Many of the movies plot points felt like filler, like the woman in India, having to speak to her in the building and having to break into the building. Yet after they converse they have to break out again, why? Couldn't they just leave out the front door. The movie has a lot of talking points. Overall it didn't entertain me, I don't think I'd watch it again. Plus the dialogue was dreadful, so quiet.
Rating: 75.
56. THE DAY SHALL COME
Chris Morris
2019 / Comedy Satire / 88mins
Synopsis: FBI manipulate a gullible leader of a black extremist movement who holds crazy ideals. The FBI ultimately want to make a career defining arrest of terrriorist activity that is comedically thwarted by the stupidity of the leader.
Review: Not as funny as hoped, in fact little to no comedy. But had an interesting idea behind it and based on true events.
Rating: 50.
57. GOOD TIME
Benny Safdie / Josh Safdie
2017 / Crime Thriller / 101mins
Synopsis: Connie drags his mentally disabled brother Nick into his world of crime, robbing a bank. Slowly things spiral out of control and Nick ends up in Jail, Connie must break him free.
Review: Robert Pattinson is fantastic as the brooklyn native struggling to control the countless problems that arise each new wrong move he makes. Similar in ways to Uncut Gems, although I did enjoy this more due to the location shifts throughout. The film is constantly moving towards the Climax and it was very enjoyable.
Rating: 81.
58. THE NIGHTINGALE
Jennifer Kent
2018 / Drama Thriller / 136mins
Synopsis: Clare goes out in hunt of a group of soldiers responsible for the death of her baby and husband. She is joined with a guide named Billy, a black native of Australia. As the pair near their targets they also grow closer to one another.
Review: The film is a fantastic epic buddy movie at its heart, watching Clare and Billy bond over the suffering of their people at the hands of the English. Very engrossing film with unsettling scenes of rape and violence. Must watch.
Rating: 86.
59. DOCTOR SLEEP
Mike Flanagan
2019 / Psychological Horror / 152mins
Synopsis: Sequel to the shining, Danny is recovering from the trauma of his father and the overlook while a troupe of vampires are absorbing the shine for youthful energy.
Review: The premise sounds dodgy but it is well handled. Ewan McGregor is amazing as the adult Danny, the story focuses on his redemption from an alcoholic on the edge to hero. The film carries on from the shining nicely, even adding some of the scenes from it. A great long film, I was invested from start to finish with the supernatural nature of it all.
Rating: 78.
SEPTEMBER
60. THE LIGHTHOUSE
Robert Eggers
2019 / Horror Drama / 110mins
Synopsis: On a remote island, Ephraim Winslow arrives to assist his elderly supervisor, Thomas Wake. The island becomes increasingly isolated which is detrimental to its inhabitants.
Review: Fantastic central performances from Robert Pattinson and Willem Dafoe, they both supported the film alone on screen. Willem Dafoe's Sea shanty lighthouse keeper is pitch perfect. Robert Pattinson let's loose a wild side of himself. Losing himself in the role brilliantly, well and truly unhinged. Amazing cinematography with the black and white and the frames on each side adding to the claustrophobic feeling of being trapped on the small bit of land. Totally engrossing film, disturbing imagary and very mysterious, a second watch is a must. How much is real? Is Tom a siren after all? What does the lighthouse hold? What is Tommys real past? Is Tommy a younger Tom? Keep an open mind...
Rating: 91.
61. I'M THINKING OF ENDING THINGS
Charlie Kaufman
2020 / Thriller Horror / 134mins
Synopsis: Amy meets Jakes parents, a newly formed relationship that Amy wishes to end. She informs us in voice over from the beginning.
Review: Jessie Buckley and Jesse Plemons are great in this uncomfortable relationship.
A very bizarre and confusing story, one that kept me enthralled with the mystery of it. Not quite sure what it was that I watched. Time was flicking back and forth. Was Amy real? Was Amy the same person as Jake? Was Jake the janitor? Were the couple killed at the end? Can Jake read Amy's mind or hear her thoughts?
Rating: 62.
62. 21 BRIDGES
Brian Kirk
2019 / Action Thriller / 99mins
Synopsis: Two men kill 6 police officers in an attempt to Rob 50k of cocaine. In comes the right man for the job, hunting down the criminals before they escape.
Review: One or two easier to guess twist, yet still enjoyable. Nice to see this type of movie being made again, felt very 90s in a good way. Dirty cops and action. And at 1hr 30 run time it's an easy watch. A decent detective story.
Rating: 64.
63. BLACKKKLANSMAN
Spike Lee
2018 / Drama Crime / 136mins
Synopsis: Ron Stallworth, newly appointed black police officer infiltrates the KKK.
Review: A great film shining light on the institutional racism within American, especially with the ending where the evidence of the KKK must be destroyed. Powerful 2017 Charlottesville riots footage really reinforces the strong hold the KKK have on the south. Cast was fantastic throughout, A great ensemble.
Rating: 69.
64. OFFICIAL SECRETS
Gavin Hood
2019 / Thriller War / 112mins
Synopsis: Katherine Gun, GCHQ employee, leaks an email from US to the UK to coerce UN members to vote for a war on Iraq.
Review: Incredible cast of British actors on display, and a gripping story of corruption within the UK government. Forcing an illegal war on Iraq. Also a story about the heroic actions of one woman to stand for her country and protect lives.
Rating: 67.
65. THE BABYSITTER: KILLER QUEEN - McG
2020 / Horror Comedy / 101mins
Synopsis: Sequel horror about a kid called Cole who survived a demonic sacrifice.
Review: Absolutely ridiculous horror fun. Do not watch this movie with brain cells engaged, the gore is bloody, the violence extreme, the scenes are crazy and it works in a wonderfully silly way. Liked it a lot for not taking itself too serious and just being fun. Actors are really enjoying themselves. Only problem is the blood and effects are CGI and very obvious at times that it took me out of the action, not that that mattered much.
Rating: 48.
66. THE JUDGE
David Dobkin
2014 / Drama Crime / 142mins
Synopsis: Hank returns to his hometown for his mums funeral after many years away. Whilst there his father, a judge in the small town, is put on trial for murder of a local. Hank defends his father at the trial and as they work together they grow closer.
Review: Very heartwarming and classic feel good movie. Robert Downey Jr has his usual charm. The film is very touching and sad throughout, loved it.
Rating: 82.
67. STATE OF PLAY
Kevin Macdonald
2009 / Thriller Drama / 127mins
Synopsis: Remake of a UK TV drama, Journalist for the globe investigates two homicides and a suspected suicide and finds a link.
Review: Cover ups and scandal throughout, a good suspense thriller. Nothing too unique, just an enjoyable movie.
Rating: 56.
68. INCEPTION
Christopher Nolan
2010 / Action Sci Fi / 148mins
Synopsis: Cobb, a thief in dreams, must use his abilities to induce inception, an idea planted so deeply inside a targets mind they believe it to be their own.
Review: Fantastic espionage action Sci fi thriller, incredible ensemble. Cobb is given an option, inception for safe passage home, which he chooses. The story is littered with doubt, I'm often questioning what is real and what is the dream. The whole thing could be a dream in which the police are using Cobb to get his confession about incepting his wife, in turn, killing her. Almost like manslaughter. I like this idea but doubt its true. Maybe he's still in a dream at the end? Saito knows his totem and so does his wife so they are the most likely...? His wife committing suicide could be enjoying the real life as Cobb remains in the dream? Lots of questions and no answers.
Rating: 85.
69. THE DEVIL ALL THE TIME
Antonio Campos
2020 / Thriller / 138mins
Synopsis: Willard commits suicide after his prayers to save his wife fall on death ears. Arvin, their son, is taken into the care of the grandparents as is the daughter of another local family recently murdered.
Review: Bit of an odd one, mostly enjoyable thriller. The movie is about the corruption on the mind from belief and religion and the many ways it can be used for harm. Lots of death, it has a very somber tone throughout. I enjoyed it, Harry Melling, dudley in HP, is quite exceptional, as is Robert Pattinson.
Rating: 70.
OCTOBER
70. ENOLA HOLMES
Harry Bradbeer
2020 / Mystery / 121mins
Synopsis: Sister to the famous detective Sherlock Holmes. Enola investigates the disappearance of her mother.
Review: Enjoyable flick with a heavy handed message of feminism.
Rating: 53
71. AMERICAN MURDER THE FAMILY NEXT DOOR
Jenny Popplewell
2020 / Documentary / 82mins
Synopsis: Documentary about the murderer Chris Watts, recounting the videos on facebook before the murder and messages and the police footage moments after at the home and in the police station.
Review: Very interesting watch if you haven't seen it before. I'd already seen a lot of the footage on YouTube. It organises and compacts that footage into a more interesting viewing.
Rating: 72.
72. CHRISTINE
John Carpenter
1983 / Horror / 110mins
Synopsis: Love can make you do crazy things. Classic horror about a killer 1958 red Plymouth Fury. The car attracts the sights of Arnie and once he's seen her he doesn't want to let her go.
Review: The film has some usual crazy Stephen King tropes, like School kids and psychotic bullies, blinding lights, horny teens. John Carpenter does a good job of not taking them too far, whilst telling the story of a killer car. Carpenter's score is fantastic as always.
Rating: 78.
73. BORAT SUBSQUENT MOVIEFILM
Jason Woliner
2020 / Comedy Mockumentary / 96mins
Synopsis: Jak się Masz? In the sequel, to the finest work from number 3 journalist in all of Kazakhstan, Borat must make an offering to Mike Pence to make up for embarrassing his nation with the first documentary. That offering being a monkey, a genius monkey. Things go awry when said monkey arrives in a wooden box to the USofA and instead contains Borat's daughter with the eaten corpse of the monkey used as nutrition. Without the monkey what else can Borat offer Mike Pence?
Review: What follows is a fantastic convoluted narrative similar to the original, with the unsuspecting public providing the plot points in crazy interactions. America is the perfect country for Borat's antics to thrive, many of the people being overly dramatic or even insanely duplicitous to Borat's mad schemes. The daughter really shines in the role, taking on board the Borat mannerisms and making them her own. I laughed plenty throughout, and couldn't believe where they went at times. The end twist being a fantastic reveal that I didn't see coming. A great sequel to Sasha Baron Cohen's original best work. Chenqui.
Rating: 79.
74. A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD
Marielle Heller
2019 / Drama / 109mins
Synopsis: Cynical Lloyd is tasked with interview Mr. Rogers for Esquire Magazine.
Review: Tom hanks shines as the heartwarming Mr. Rogers in this tale from an Esquire writer Lloyd Vogel. Lloyd is tasked with interviewing the mysterious man with a heart of gold, is it all an act? Or is he sincere? The question is brought up but quickly forgotten as we delve deeper into the psyche of the interviewer. Mr. Rogers turns the spotlight onto Lloyd making him think about the pain and anger he holds inside. The film centres on Lloyd's family life and how Mr. Rogers influences it for the better. I was smiling throughout, not as much as in "Won't you be my neighbour," but still charming. Towards the end the pace slowed almost to a crawl and for a few minutes I was clock watching, but it was shortly over. Overall a fantastic film with great central performances, Hanks portrays Rogers brilliantly.
Rating: 77.
75. CRAZY RICH ASIANS
John M. Chu
2018 / Romcom / 121mins
Synopsis: Meet the Parents, Asian style. Rachel Chu flies to Shanghai with her boyfriend Nick Young for a wedding in which Nick is best man. Whilst there Rachel meets his family, ultra rich and eccentric.
Review: Lovely rom-com, delivering laughs throughout, especially Rachel's crazy friend, the Asian Ellen, and lots of luxurious sights. With a very happy ending.
Rating: 75.
76. THE PERSONAL HISTORY OF DAVID COPPERFIELD
Armando Innanuci
2019 / Comedy Drama / 119mins
Synopsis: The story as told by David Copperfield from birth until adulthood. The many adventures along the way and the many unique characters he meets. Often keeping a record of the conversation and quotes from the other people.
Review: The film has an excellent ensamble cast, and it is often funny, extremely quirky, but I felt myself watching and also not paying full attention. Almost like the film past me by, whether due to a lack of interest or some other reason. I did like the film, I just couldn't help feeling I will forget it soon. And the film looked georgous throughout, the use of colours on the set design and the locations really popped out vibrantly. Every character was larger than life, brought expertly to life by the fantastic cast of actors, stand out were, Peter Capaldi, Ben Whishaw and Hugh Laurie in my opinion.
Rating: 72.
77. 1917
Sam Mendes
2019 / War Drama / 119mins
2nd Review: The film is still a technical feat, incredible crafted with excellent action throughout. On the second viewing the film was obviously less tense making it feel a little longer and slower. But overall its impossible not to be impressed with what's on show here. Stand out moments being the airplane through the barn and the flare chases. I think it doesn't hold up as well as Dunkirk does on a repeat watch. Definitely a must see.
Rating: 86.
78. IT: CHAPTER TWO
Andrés Muschietti
2019 / Horror Thriller / 169mins
Synopsis: Kicks off 27 years after the loser managed to repel, not kill, It. Mike contacts the crew after a gruesome murder is reported in the small town of Derry, getting the band together one last time to defeat It.
Review: The film is too long, despite not feeling it, theres a lot that could be cut and it would still be good. Also an over reliance on CGI made scenes less scary and more uncanny and distracting. It was a very average film, chapter one managed to reignite interest into the classic horror novel whereas chapter two almost turned me off the idea. Struggled to understand the rules of It, itself, what it can and cannot do taking away some of the tension. The bully is bad for a short while and seems totally out of place, luckily its short lived. The homophobic intro was very out of place too, random group of guys beat up two gay people for no reason other than they are gay? Didn't see the point. Film was OK, was hoping for more.
Rating: 60.
79. BRIGHTBURN
David Yarovesky
2019 / Horror / 90mins
Synopsis: What if superman was evil? That tells you what you need to know about this film.
Review: The premise is excellent, we have tons of heroes and anti-heroes in comic book films, why not an evil hero? Although it never truly reaches its potential I can see a sequel to this being great. The gore is great, and it doesn't shy away from it which I liked. The first half was a little too slow, either more interesting family development or get to the violence earlier. And the body count could've been upped. That seems like a budgetary thing though. Overall I enjoyed it, but was disappointed it didn't go further.
Rating: 50.
80. THE 'BURBS
Joe Dante
1989 / Comedy Horror / 101mins
Synopsis: Classic horror comedy with Tom Hanks as the Bath robe wearing suburbanite concerned by the new neighbours antics.
Review: Really fun easy watch. Still holds up today with its simple yet enjoyable premise and a silly cast of characters. The Klopecks being cartoonishly sinister looking, which adds to the overall charm. Its a cult classic for a reason. To be enjoyed on Halloween.
Rating: 72.
81. HIS HOUSE
Remi Weekes
2020 / Thriller Mystery / 93mins
Synopsis: Two Sudan refugees survive a boat trip to the UK and shortly after receiver a new life in a new home. A rather large property in a rough neighbourhood, the house is rundown and full of rubbish. The pair set about living their new life's and trying to fit it, although something has followed them to the house.
Review: Horror film focusing on African folklore, very interesting and well paced. I often wondered whether it was a dream or reality throughout and the film does a good job of balancing that question. More of a thriller than horror but it does have some of the aspects that come with horror, like jump scares. Something worth watching I think.
Rating: 71.
November
82. Disturbia
D.J. Caruso
2007 / Thriller Mystery / 105mins
Synopsis: A kid is put on house arrest after punching his teacher, growing bored of confinement he begins spying on his neighbours. It starts off innocent enough, until one neighbour is upto something a little more sinister. Or so he believes.
Review: Heavily influenced by rear window and using the premise well, its a fun mindless thriller. It feels like the film could've offered more in the way of paranoia and mistaken accusations but overall its alright.
Rating: 68.
83. OCEANS EIGHT
Gary Ross
2018 / Comedy Crime / 111mins
Synopsis: Danny Ocean's sister plans a heist to rob a cartier necklace.
Review: The Eight never get much screen time beyond the few main ones and the others characters are not unique enough to stand out. Unlike each character having their own unique strengths and weaknesses it felt like every character could do everything. I think a few flaws would've made the characters a little more interesting. I like the idea of an all female heist group, I just don't like the pandering to feminist with every male character being evil, dumb, incompetent or weak. The plot was pretty decent, with a nice revelation, although mostly what they set out to do happened flawlessly. I think if things went wrong we could see how Debbie Ocean would react to make things right showing her ability to think on her feet and adapt. The film would benefit from a more revenge driven tone, maybe a more sinister target? Or a target that had more background or influence or intelligence or power. Anything to make it interesting, maybe he outwits her at one point, but no. A good film, that could've been so much better with just a few extra improvements. The female empowerment wasn't too obnoxious alone, but paired with the male stupidity, it was too much.
Rating: 63.
84. ASSASSINATION NATION
Sam Levinson
2018 / Action Horror / 110mins
Synopsis: The residents of Salem are being hacked and the leaked information is ruining everyone's lives.
Review: The plot follows four promiscuous teen high school girls and their antics. I cannot relate to anything that is happening in this movie. In fact it's possibly the worst thing I've ever seen, none of the characters are likeable, none of them seem normal, everyone is over the top and stupid. Such dreadful writing. Wouldn't recommend to anyone. Although still not great, the second half of this movie descends into a purge esque murder fest, with rioters looking for the cause of the leaks. They take it on themselves to torture for answers and the answer they get leads to one of the four girls. The girls defend themselves from the attackers. It does redeem the plot a little as its a much better sequence of events. But overall this is a trash film.
Rating: 46
85. MONEYBALL
Bennett Miller
2011 / Sport Drama / 133mins
Synopsis: Billy Beane, president of the MLB team the Oakland Athletics, must use the limited funds at his club to produce the best team he can.
Review: Brad Pitt is likeable as Billy. The film is very entertaining to watch. It manages to make Baseball interesting, that's all I need to say.
Rating: 71
86. IN THE SHADOW OF THE MOON
Jim Mickle
2019 / Sci Fi Thriller / 115mins
Synopsis: Three bodies turn up dead, blood seeping out of the orifices. Brains turned to mush. Each victim has puncture wounds in the back of the neck. An overzealous police officer follows the clues, they lead to a hooded figure with a futuristic injection device. The officer learns this person is from the future.
Review: Interesting idea, I lost interest throughout though. The plot didn't keep me intrigued despite the mysterious story. Average film.
Rating: 52.
87. NIGHT HUNTER
David Raymond
2018 / Psychology Thriller / 98mins
Synopsis: A vigilante team use a young female to bait sexual predators, unfortunately one sting goes badly and the girl is kidnapped. Luckily for them the girl has a tracking device. The cops follow the signal to a house where a serial killer is keeping other women hostage.
Review: Very fragmented movie, something about the way its editing just feels off at times. Maybe not enough footage? I enjoyed it though, maybe because I enjoy serial killer mysteries. Good twist at the end, shame the film isn't much better because the ending would've made this fantastic.
Rating: 54.
88. THE CONJURING
James Wan
2013 / Horror Supernatural / 112mins
Synopsis: Paranormal investigators are invited into the Warren's family home when bizarre occurrences begin to happen.
Review: This is a horror movie masterpiece. The tension building in the first half is masterclass, and the all out insanity for the finale is perfectly chaotic. Everyone is giving their all in this film. Thoroughly terrified throughout and on edge.
Rating: 82.
89. ATLANTICS
Mati Diop
2019 / Romance Drama / 107mins
Synopsis: Souleiman is a penniless construction working who hasn't been paid for four months. Ada is a young girl soon to be married to a wealthy man, Omar. Souleiman, Ada's true love, sets off to migrate in Spain crossing the sea, leaving Ada without even a goodbye.
Review: The warm glow of sunset, blending in the sea waters, the film is poetically shot. Watching the waves roll back and forth is a common theme within and for good reason. Escape the poverty by braving the sea, it doesn't look to bad. A modern day love story with a very interesting African twist. Was not expecting where this film eventually leads and for that it was much more enjoyable. Definite watch.
Rating: 82.
90. BACURAU
Kleber Mendonça Filho / Juliano Dornelles
2019 / Western Thriller / 132mins
Synopsis: Bacurau is a small isolated village in Brazil, with a tight knit family of oddballs taking psychotropic drugs. After the death of Carmelita, the matriarchal figure of the village, strange things begin to happen.
Review: This one blew me away, I wasn't ready for it at all. I think it's a film you must drive into rather than research. All I can say is I enjoyed it a lot.
Rating: 79.
91. THE LOVE WITCH
Anna Biller
2016 / Horror Comedy / 120mins
Synopsis: Elaine, the love witch, is having no luck with men. Every man she meets falls madly in love with her after they drink her potion, so deeply in love it breaks them, leaving Elaine uninterested.
Review: A clear love letter to 60s sexplotation movies. It has a bizarre b-movie quality that adds to its charm. Car scenes with rear protection, ham fisted dialogue, close up of eyes, stilted line delivery. It all contributes to this so bad its good nature that the film is intentionally going for. Whilst I didn't think it was amazing, like the likes of Black dynamite or either Garth Marenghi, it was entertaining campy fun. The actors nail the tone so well its hard to tell its intentional. Was hoping for more laughs, but in the end it wasn't very funny at all.
Rating: 64.
92. REBECCA
Ben Wheatley
2020 / Romance Mystery / 121mins
Synopsis: A woman, paid to keep a lady company, meets a rich man abroad. The lady becomes sick and the woman takes the opportunity to venture out alone with this man. The pair fall in love and move into the grand home, manderley. All seems well, until the new Mrs. Dewinters feels the pressure of not living up to the expectations of the Late Mrs. Dewinters.
Review: Your standard thriller film with a great central story adapted from the novel of the same name by Daphne du Maurier. Kristin Scott Thomas delights as the stone faced carer of the house. Great film.
Rating: 77.
93. THE GIRL IN THE SPIDER'S WEB
Fede Álvarez
2018 / Action Crime / 117mins
Synopsis: This outing of the millennium book series has Claire Foy as the vengeful vigilante Lisbeth, who is hired for a job obtaining a dangerous programme that could be used to fire any nuclear missile in the world.
Review: Farfetched is the only way to describe the plot, as well as a literal roller-coaster ride, one moment she's ahead the next she's behind again, and so on. Although it wasn't terrible I think they missed out on a few opportunities to really build up the menace of the villains. The twist, if you can call it that, that her sister who stayed with the father ends up the villain was foreseeable. I think they could've done a lot more with the relationship between the sisters as it is the driving force of them film. The reporter was a throw away character, I felt he could've had a lot more development and involvement. In the end he helped her once and it wasn't something I couldn't see Lisbeth doing alone, so why she needed to contact him baffles me. Maybe to have a very weak relationship in the movie to not care about. The action set piece with the sniper at the end was well done. The film managed to keep me watching but that's about it, one to forget down the line.
Rating: 55.
94. THE GRANDMASTER
Wong Kar Wai
2013 / Drama Martial arts / 122mins
Synopsis: A tale of two stories, one about Ip Man the famous King fu master that taught Bruce Lee, and one about the Grandmaster, Gong's, family legacy bringing together the many different martial artists. Wong attempts to unite the South with the North by offering a challenge to the greatest fighter in the South. It just so happens to be Ip man, who takes the challenge.
Review: The film then becomes more of a love story. Nominated for its cinematography, the film looked great throughout apart from an overuse of a overcranked stuttering slow motion, not used in fight scenes, thank god, but jarring none the less. I especially liked the train fight, it really stood out, the energy in this scene with the passing train. Fantastic. It was nice to watch a kung fu film again as it has been a while and its a genre I love.
Rating: 72.
95. THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO
Niels Arden Oplev
2009 / Mystery Thriller / 153mins
Synopsis: A journalist, Mikael Blomkvist, is hired by a wealthy family business owner, the Vanger's, to investigate the disappearance of one of his great neices forty years ago. The case is eventually aided by the enigmatic rogue Lisbeth and the pair investigate the family past.
Review: A fantastic murder mystery based on the popular book series by Stieg Larsson, the clues are perfectly drip fed to the audience keeping you intrigued yet still unsure who could be the killer. And in the end everything adds up and makes sense. Noomi Rapace nails the essence of the character. Like a loaded spring she could snap at any minute. The mother daughter scene at the end felt like pointless filler. Personally could've done without.
Rating: 77.
96. LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON
Hirokazu Koreeda
2013 / Drama Family / 130mins
Synopsis: What would you do if you're child was mistakenly switched for another at the hospital they were born? One rich couple and one poor find out their children are not their own blood and so they must decide if six years into raising their child they should switch. Asking the age old question of Nature vs. Nurture.
Review: Brilliantly directed by Hirokazu Koreeda, again bringing out wonderful child performances. They seem so natural, like the camera isn't there and they are just having fun. The themes present in Koreeda's later work, Shoplifters, shows up here too, what it means to be a parent.
Rating: 84.
97. THE RED TURTLE
Michaél Dudok De Wit
2016 / Animation Fantasy / 81mins
Synopsis: The man is within thrashing waters with an upturned boat. The sky is a muddy muddy grey, muted of colour. He is swept ashore, an isolated island and initial decides to escape, crafting a raft from a nearby bamboo forest. As he makes his escape something is stopping him, crushing the bamboo raft from beneath.
Review: Incredibly beautiful animation, minimalistic art colours the tone perfectly. The poetic storytelling is hypnotic and emotional. A story about the relationship between man and nature, relighting the passion that once existed. From birth through to death with witness it all.
Rating: 73.
98. THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE
Daniel Alfredson
2009 / Mystery Thriller / 129mins
Synopsis: Salander must prove her innocence after her guardian turns up dead with her prints on the gun.
Review: The film at parts felt like a Swedish James bond soap opera. A blonde haired Jaws, convenient plot to reunited the previous characters, slapstick fights, a burnt scarred faced villain, car chases with boxers - a character that has little to no baring on the overall plot, he honestly felt like a Swedish celebrity cameo. They have definitely jumped the shark on this one. Not only are two reporters, recently joining Blomkvist, killed, but Bjurman, Salanders guardian, is also killed, conveniently reunited the pair. Not just that though, Bjurman was also involved with the new suspected killer, Zala. Its almost like trouble follows this pair, like a cheap soap opera. The film kinda entertains but the convoluted plot is frustratingly bad, considering the first film did the mystery so well.
Rating: 38.
99. HOUNDS OF LOVE
Ben Young
2016 / Horror Thriller / 108mins
Synopsis: A deranged couple kidnap a school girl to live out their twisted desires.
Review: Horrifying, nerve shredding, teeth clenching. The tension is unbearable at times, never indulging in the violence and depraved nature of the act which I'm thankful for. The film doesn't play itself like a cheap nasty horror skinflick, like hostel. Instead the dread is built and the horror is left to the imagination. The film focuses mostly on the dynamic between the psychotic couple, the male dominate and manipulative one and the female fragile minded co-dependent one. They couldn't have done a better job at portraying an unhinged and dangerous pair of lunatics. And what an ending, I'm physically tired after it.
Rating: 80.
100. THE FOREIGNER
Martin Campbell
2017 / Action Thriller / 116mins
Synopsis: A new branch of IRA bomb a bank killing innocent civilians in the process. One of them being Quan's (Jackie Chan) daughter. Quan goes on a rampage looking for the culprits.
Review: Chan is fantastic as always, at 60 years old doing the most insane stunts. The film is old school action and the pace is great. The only problem is Jackie Chan's character was very aggressive against one man without prove. Either he knew something we don't or he had lost his mind and just wanted someone to pay.
Rating: 67.
101. IF ANYTHING HAPPENS I LOVE YOU
Will McCormack
2020 / Drama / 12mins
Synopsis: Grieving parents journey through an emotional void as they mourn the loss of their child.
Review: The visuals are haunting and cold. The music is sombre. The tone is bleak. Short film with a horrific truth. Manages to do so much with so little, the 12 minutes left me in tears.
Rating: 82.
102. THE EQUALIZER
Anton Fuqua
2014 / Action thriller / 131 mins
Synopsis: A man exacts revenge on a gang that leaves a girl in hospital.
Review: A power fantasy in the vein of John Wick. One powerful superhuman capable of taking down an army. Whereas the fight scenes in Wick were technically brilliant, this film is focused more on brutality. Clean and simple moves to take the target it down fast. Denzel is great as the unflinching walking grim reaper.
Rating: 80.
103. THE EQUALIZER 2
Anton Fuqua
2018 / Action Thriller / 120mins
Synopsis: Denzel returns to protect the weak and uncover a conspiracy.
Review: Another fun action film. More of the same from the first. The ending was exceptional. The location and the weather really made the scene memorable and epic.
Rating: 78.
104. CLIMAX
Gaspar Nöe
2018 / Horror drama / 96mins
Synopsis: A dance troupe practising for a show get together and share some drinks. Things suddenly get out of hand.
Review: nothing like anything I've seen before. The film features a lot of impressive long takes with intricate choreography and cinematography. Fantastic use of the camera, drawing the audience into the madness. The chaos is so visceral. I love this film but it won't be for everyone. The first half introduces the many characters with an interview, little details to inform us about them, but the dancing is where I feel their true nature comes out. And exactly half way, the second half begins... This is one hell of a trip. An intense immersive experience.
Rating: 91.
105. NOCTURAMA
Bertrand Bonello
2016 / Drama thriller / 130mins
Synopsis: A group of teenagers plan a mass bombing around Paris and then hide.
Review: You have to be patient with this film, wasn't easy to sit down and watch it all. The plot keeps you guessing. Are they suicide bombers and the ending is heaven, fulfilling their dreams in the final hours. Or was it all real? What was with the mannequins, they clearly had a purpose. Especially looking like the characters. I thought it was gonna be a supernatural horror at the end.
Rating: 67.
106. DESTROYER
Karyn Kusama
2018 / Crime Thriller / 121mins
Synopsis: Detective Bell (Nicole Kidman) arrives on a crime scene that brings back memories of years earlier when she infiltrating a gang of Bank robbers.
Review: Kidman plays a ghost faced, skeletal detective on the verge of collapsing from one too many snorts of cocaine. She is on form. This one really surprised me, the action was intense.
Rating: 72.
December
107. UNHINGED
Derrick Borte
2020 / Action Thriller / 90mins
Synopsis: In a rush to school, a woman beeps at a disgruntled man after he waits too long at a green light. He doesn't appreciate that.
Review: Surprisingly violent, Russell Crowe is perfect as the psychotic Road rager getting his own "Justice" in this cruel world. The intro ruined the film as it explained how many people were capable of road rage making the unhinged man seem more normal (although he doesn't because of how crazy it gets). Another bad thing was the dialogue at times, it seemed to make the future events more predictable. Other than that a perfectly violent crazy thriller. Great action, everything was brutal and crunchy.
Rating: 65.
108. MANK
David Fincher
2020 / Drama / 132mins
Synopsis: Biopic of Hollywood scriptwriter Herman Mankiewicz as he writes Citizen Kane.
Review: This was my most anticipated movie of the year, being a big fan of all of Fincher's work. This is possibly one of his greatest, a love letter to the golden era of cinema. Hollywood at its finest, Black and white grainy footage, fantastic snappy dialogue, echoey sound as if produce on a backlot at MGM studios. It's all here and wonderfully acted, Fincher has a way of pulling every last ounce of performance out of his actors, Gary Oldham is glorious as Mank, revelling in his smooth silver-tongued and witty delivery of words, often slurred by excessive drinking. The film could be labelled a comedy with how often I laughed although it may be misleading. David Fincher has managed to engulf the screen with a atmosphere perfectly capturing 1930s Hollywood and although I did have difficulty following the quick dialogue at times, I nevertheless loved it all the same. I think I may enjoy this more on repeat viewing.
Rating: 88.
109. POSSESSOR -
Brandon Cronenberg
2020 / Horror Sci fi thriller / 104mins
Synopsis: A corporation capable of controlling the minds of others, use their technology to jump into peoples bodies and use them to assassinate targets.
Review: This really shocked me, not for the faint of heart. I was truly blown away, Brandon has taken his father's legacy and modernised it for today's audience. The body-horror on display was gloriously twisted, reminding me of David Cronenberg's hayday with the likes of 'The Fly'. Incredible practical effects make all the gore more squeamish. Not since the likes of The Matrix has a Sci fi film impressed me with its originality. Maybe not so much with its core idea, but its execution.
Rating: 91.
110. POKEMON DETECTIVE PIKACHU
Rob Letterman
2019 / Mystery Family / 105mins
Synopsis: A boy gets entangled in a conspiracy plot while investigating the murder of his father, with Pokemon companions.
Review: things I liked - they played the story straight, wasn't gimmicky. The pokemon felt alive in the world. Things I didn't like - the story overall wasn't great and predictable despite a few twist and turns. Acting wasn't great from our lead. Ryan Reynolds voice didn't ruin the movie despite my reservations. Enjoyable but totally forgettable. Worth a watch with a low attention span child.
Rating: 54
111. INVISIBLE MAN (REWATCH)
Leigh Whannell
2020 / Horror Thriller / 125mins
Review: It managed to scare me more the second time, with me watching the empty hallways and waiting for something to jump out only for it to never come. I can't imagine a better lead, coming off "Handmaid's tale" Elizabeth Moss has lots of experience playing the role of an oppressed and paranoid woman at the hands of controlling men. This is still a must watch especially if you're watching it with someone who hasn't seen it before!
112. PORTRAIT OF A LADY ON FIRE (REWATCH)
Celine Sciamma
2020 / Romance Period drama / 119mins
Review: Stunningly beautiful imagery, like a painting coming to life. The director wanted to explore the female gaze, and the script perfectly encapsulates that. Dialogue free scenes as the two women lock eyes. The love grows so naturally and recalls of moments I fell in love and how that felt. The excitement and anticipation before that first kiss. The fear and loss of control. How emotionally fragile you can feel.
Comments
Post a Comment