teiixeiral

IMDb member since February 2014
    Lifetime Total
    75+
    IMDb Member
    10 years

Reviews

Carmen
(2022)

An extremely try hard attempt at creating "Cinema".
Carmen is a movie that tries to be too many different things at once. It wants to be a musical, a modern dance recital, a drama about ptsd and romance, and an art house forward film. The end result as you can imagine is a slow, bloated mess.

The positives are the performances from Melissa and Paul. This isn't an easy film to act in due to the nature of the story, but they both commit to their roles and deserved a better director.

Outside of the cinematography which accurately captured the mood of the story, there's nothing else to praise. Benjamin Millepied's cinematic vision is pretentious and dreadful. His eye for directing is better suited for the stage, not film.

Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets
(2017)

Story is still King.
Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets is a fabulous achievement in CGI, set design and costuming. Every single frame looks expensive and well thought out. This is without a doubt, one of the best technical achievements we've seen from a sci-fi movie this century.

However, it hurts when you watch a movie that's absolutely stunning but the writing is atrocious. The writing is so disjointed that it even effects the action scenes. It's no wonder why audiences didn't connect with this film at the box office- the story is flat as stale pop and the performances from the leads aren't captivating at all.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
(2022)

The cloud of Chadwick Boseman's passing lingers on.
It's impossible to review Wakanda Forever without mentioning Chadwick Boseman. His Black Panther was meant to be the next Iron Man of the MCU and his untimely passing left a deep wound.

No, Wakanda Forever is not an amazing film. It's okay and maybe even great considering the circumstances that everyone had to deal with. It's very well made but a massive budget can't deliver a good story.

This movie is 30 minutes too long and it spends too much time on new characters. There's also something very soulless about Black Panther's replacement which means the ending of this film is rather uninspiring.

Everything Everywhere All at Once
(2022)

The cast saves the movie.
The one redeeming thing about EEAAO is the acting. Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu, and Ke Huy Quan hold your attention throughout the entirety of this film. They're capable of distilling the craziness of the movie's plot into something plateable.

The story itself isn't bad, just the execution. The Daniel's style isn't for me. They're technically proficient but they make creative choices that are strange and stupid. EEAAO falls of the rails at multiple times throughout the runtime because the story is just too confusing.

I wouldn't watch this again. To me, it's very overrated and the gimmick of the multiverse gets old very fast when it's as convoluted as it is here.

Fate: The Winx Saga
(2021)

A dark teen fantasy show.
First Season- 6/10 Second Season- 7/10

Fate: The Winx Saga is a compelling blend of magic, teen angst and dark fantasy. The first season is very uneven and struggles from poor writing as the writers try to establish all the characters and lore. I found the second season to be an improvement, even though the writing and pacing was still the weak point.

I enjoy the dynamic between the main characters and I think the show could be better if it was given more episodes to further explore the story. There's a lot of characters and political and personal storylines that aren't given the full attention they need in order to flourish.

If you're not the target market for this show, you'll probably dislike it. But if you are, you may like it, or even love it. I hope Netflix renews it for a third season as it is an easy binge watch.

Purple Hearts
(2022)

A shallow, escapist romance.
Purple Hearts is messy. The political and socialist commentary that the film starts off with is dropped half way through for a romance story that's unrealistic given the differences between both characters established at the beginning of the movie.

Are we really suppose to believe that a man who views a girl as a "liberal nut" is going to fall in love with her? Likewise, are we suppose to believe that a liberal latina is going to fall in love with a conservative white man who dislikes her views?

Apparently, yes, because the guy get's injured in combat and the girl nurses him back to health and they eventually forget why they disliked each other at first due to some insane plot armour. The writing was not good.

The use of several romance tropes like marriage of convenience, enemies to loves, and long distance relationships helps to create palpable chemistry between the leads but it isn't enough to ignore the plot holes in this movie. I'm begging writers to STOP including social/political commentary in their work if they aren't going to do it right.

Not Okay
(2022)

A tricky satire about white women that falls flat.
Not Okay is a satirical take on everyone's favourite genre, "Karens". This movie is about a vapid white woman from a well off family who just can't help but be the centre of attention, even when they absolutely shouldn't be. That's it.

Aside from a heartbreaking, but absolutely engrossing performance from Mia Isaac, there's nothing to really champion about this movie primarily because of its poor, predictable storyline. The lesson at the end falls flat. Is the lesson really that Karen's should just disappear because no one wants to deal with them? While I'm not disagreeing with that, it seems rather juvenile to end your movie with a stance that doesn't contribute to change, especially when the film deals with heavy topics like gun control, liberal feminism, toxic social media culture and black fishing.

There's a good film in here somewhere but it needs better writers.

Get Over It
(2001)

An Iconic 2000s Teen Movie
If you're looking for an entertaining teen movie to watch where you can turn your brain off but still be engaged, Get Over It is for you.

The acting is great (some performances are intentionally over the top but it adds to the comedy). The script is well paced with some hilarious sequences. The story blends Shakespeare and high school hijinks to great effect.

They really don't make teen movies like this anymore and that's sad.

Senna
(2010)

A fine effort
What this documentary does best is represent the passion that Senna had for racing and how that passion brought joy into people's lives from his own fans to his fellow peers.

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
(2022)

Disney, what are you doing?
I liked the first Doctor Strange and I had high hopes for the sequel because I thought Disney could make something even better, as there was a lot to improve upon, but alas, they didn't.

The story is a mess. Those rumours about reshoots and test audiences not loving this movie make sense, especially considering this film lost its original director. What's up with character assassination of Wanda? Why is Strange an afterthought in his own movie?

The only thing going for this movie are it's visuals (the 30 second glimpse of the different realities in the multiverse was visually breathtaking). Unfortunately, it looks like Disney/Marvel are focusing more on over the top CGI in this new phase as opposed to good storytelling.

The Northman
(2022)

A Stylish Norseman Revenge Story
The best thing about The Northman are the visuals. Eggers is one of the most interesting directors working right now because his films have such a fantastic atmosphere. I loved his direction, coupled with the cinematography work.

Where this film struggles is in its story and script. The classic revenge story arc is a common one but it feels tired here and the script does very little to set it a part. The film is more introspective, and it could have benefited from some better crafted action and writing.

Candyman
(2021)

Wasted Potential
This isn't a good sequel. The problem with Candyman (2021, not 1992- because that one was amazing compared to this), is that it lacks the attributes of a good horror thriller. The pacing is horrible and the lack of suspense and atmosphere is painful. The script and story just aren't worthy.

It's a shame because I like the modernized take but the spirit of the original is completely absent. This film feels rushed and the reveals don't hit. All in all, this is completely forgettable.

The Green Knight
(2021)

A Gorgeous Tale Hampered Down By Pacing Issues
The highlight of The Green Knight are the visuals. This film is truly a work of art. The sets, costumes, cinematography and direction are top notch, skilled work. It's such a moody, atmospheric story supported by great performances and a brilliant score.

The biggest problem is the pacing. This is about as slow as a slow burn you can get when it comes to an epic fantasy set in medieval times. A24 is known for movies that subvert usual cliches so The Green Knight is spot on in that regard.

However, if you're not familiar with the original story this film is based on, you won't truly understand the film, something that I believe has added to people's dislike. The vagueness, combined with the pacing prevents this from being a home run in my eyes.

Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore
(2022)

A visual feast that's lacking in soul.
The best thing about The Secrets of Dumbledore is the visuals. The CGI is top notch, the sets beautiful, the costumes on point and the cinematography stunning.

However, everything else is painfully boring. The storyline is a mess. These actors are given nothing to do but stand around and deliver the most uninspiring dialogue. There's no definite main character who we follow throughout the movie, which results in a bunch of subplots that fall flat.

I can't believe WB would put so much money into this movie before making sure that the script and story were good. With each instalment of Fantastic Beasts, the magic of Harry Potter and the Wizarding World is dwindling. No one asked for this "prequel" and it's clear that those involved with making this series could care less.

The inner child in me that grew up on the Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter movie series' is disappointed in how corporate greed has ruined them.

X
(2022)

Pretty Visuals, Empty Movie
The best thing about X is the visuals. The synergy between director and cinematographer was reminiscent of some of the great slashers and it certainly helps to elevate this film in style.

However, for a slasher movie I was disappointed in the story. I do appreciate the attempt at doing something different with the antagonist but it was very unrealistic. I can buy a cannibalistic wielding chainsaw maniac, but the evil in X is more symbolic than terrifying.

All in all, this was okay but not memorable and more of an art house take on the genre.

The Batman
(2022)

Gotham City's Finest Batman
The Batman is a stylish crime film that deserves its praise for bringing something fresh to the DC universe. Finally, we have a team of creatives who possess a vision and the ability to execute it without looking like frauds (Wonder Woman i'm looking at you).

The direction, cinematography, set design, outfits, score and editing are top notch and award worthy. You're dropped into the middle of an atmospheric, seedy Gotham City that feels real and the cat and mouse game between Batman and the Riddler unfolds with a slow burn that allows you to take in the artistic vision of all involved.

At nearly 3 hours, the director could have shaved off a couple scenes for the theatrical release as many have pointed out and you may not like the characterization of the comic books most famous characters, but they are tonally perfect with this adaptation.

It's the best DC movie since Dark Knight and a worthy predecessor to Nolan's Batman.

Mommy
(2014)

A Xavier Dolan Classic
Mommy is a gorgeously shot and passionately acted masterpiece. Xavier Dolan has such an amazing style. It's absolutely divine and bursting with emotion.

The soundtrack is amazing and the scenes that feature them are like beautifully shot music videos. It's a clever storytelling device Dolan uses to break up the tension of the story, and my is it effective.

The aspect ratio makes sense. People have called it pretentious, but the small square frame really does heighten the emotion of the story and it spotlights the transcendent performances of the wonderful cast.

Anne Dorval, Antoine Olivier Pilon and Suzanne Clément were perfectly cast. Their performances are tonally perfect and commanding. The relationship between all of them is unconventional but their chemistry sells it.

The relationship between Steve and his mom is interesting. You can clearly see how it's problematic but the love, connection and fierceness between those two radiates off the screen at the same time.

Xavier has audacity to create something so raw and authentic. Mommy is one of the greatest Canadian films of all time.

This Is the End
(2013)

One of the Best Late Night Comedies of All Time.
This Is the End is one of the most ambitious comedy movies of the century. The cast is big, the stakes are high and the comedy is audacious.

Danny McBride is the standout. He continues to be one of the most under-appreciated comedic talents of his generation. The overall chemistry within the cast helps to sell the more outrageous set pieces.

If you're looking for a funny movie to watch late at night, this is the one.

Gisaengchung
(2019)

Another Boon Joon-ho Classic!
Parasite is so good. The energy of this film is unique with the blend of different styles being both seamless and quirky. I loved the creative choices made here from the direction, to the cinematography, to the production design and the script. It's fresh and so unlike anything we've seen in recent memory.

The way the film builds to that climax is truly masterful. Bravo!

Eternals
(2021)

Eternally Mid
If you want to make a movie that tackles complex themes like existentialism, faith, and duty, you need to have emotional impact and Eternals is sorely lacking in that department. It's a movie that suffers from serious pacing problems that are further compounded by boring characters.

The decision to shoot using primarily natural light is a creative gamble that ultimately hurts the film because better lighting is needed to elevate many scenes and to provide that contrast between exterior and interior shots. The film is drab, even though some of the visuals are truly breathtaking.

Also, the flipping between different eras and characters is not well done by the writers at all and many characters or "emotional moments" pay the price for it. It's hard to care about the story because something feels like it's missing, and everything feels too subtle and nuanced to make an impact.

Annihilation
(2018)

Another Sci-Fi Standout from Alex Garland
I had low expectations coming into Annihilation because these ratings are all over the place but I ended up loving the movie.

Alex Garland is simply put, one of the best directors & writers working in sci-fi today. He creates such an engrossing atmosphere that's supported by beautiful visuals, rich symbolism and strong performances. Annihilation makes you think and ponder on complex themes which is what great sci-fi is suppose to do. I particularly love the alien design and the final act is beautifully crafted.

It's sad that audiences and critics rejected Annihilation because it will age better than these ratings suggest. But what else should one expect in this day and age where hardcore sci-fi is not respected.

Spider-Man: No Way Home
(2021)

The best Spider-Man Outing for Marvel
The first 2 MCU Spider Man's were okay but No Way Home is easily the greatest outing yet. It's almost impossible for a movie like this to fail when the storyline is balls to the walls and so satisfying if you've watched every single Spider-Man live action movie yet.

The performances are all solid, but it's Defoe who ends up stealing the show. His performance as the Goblin really is one of the greatest villain portrayals of all time. Also, Andrew Garfield deserved a better Spider Man franchise because his performance jumps off the screen in his limited screen time.

While a lot of these reviews are overrating the movie, it's still great and well worth your time for a seriously fun and inventive concept.

Dark
(2017)

One of the Best Streaming Shows of All Time
Dark is must see television. There's a reason why a show from Germany is so well loved by this many people, because it's that good. Yes, you need to watch it in German and you need to focus while watching it because it's more confusing than a rubik's cube. But, it's worth it for one of most impressive sci-fi shows of all time.

It goes strength for strength with heavy hitters like Breaking Bad and it manages to end with a strong conclusion as well.

It's the type of show that I wish I could erase from memory so I could experience it again for the first time.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer
(1997)

An Iconic Cult TV Series
Buffy was a trailblazer. There isn't much to be said about this series that hasn't already been said.

It's a piece of history, though a little bit outdated now that TV budgets can accommodate better fight choreography, sets, cameras and CGI. Most of the performances are tonally perfect, outside of a few. Sarah Michelle Gellar absolutely carries the show on her shoulders and the show owes a lot of its success to her. There's some well crafted villains and some lame ones as well. But there are a plethora of interesting, genre breaking episodes that stand the test of time.

On it's whole, BTVS isn't a masterpiece like a lot of people claim it is and it doesn't withstand a more critical lens, but it does deserve its cult status because it truly is one of the most influential shows of its time.

Spontaneous
(2020)

Act 1 & 2 are great, Act 3 is horrible.
The first two acts of Spontaneous are interesting. The blend of body horror, coming of age hijinks, teen romance, existential crisis and dark humour creates an off-beat story that charms you. The performances from the main cast were solid and for some reason, Charlie Plummer reminded me of River Phoenix. Then, the film does something incredibly stupid, the third act.

My rating would be higher if not for that third act. I did see the twist coming since it was basically foreshadowed multiple times during the movie, and I don't really have an issue with doing that, but the resulting storyline that comes out of it is absolutely horrible. The movie just deflated like a sad balloon and the moral of the story is not only generic, but undercooked. The writers clearly didn't care by that point which is sad because if the third act was rewritten by someone better the film could be a special one.

I would recommend watching this for the first 2 acts and then you can peace out because the ending is not worth it.

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