wang-01639

IMDb member since August 2016
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    IMDb Member
    7 years

Reviews

Gojira -1.0
(2023)

Finally, a movie about - GODZILLA!
Godzilla Minus One is an absolute triumph in the world of kaiju cinema, seamlessly blending jaw-dropping visual effects with a riveting storyline. From the opening scenes that immerse the audience in a world of awe-inspiring scale, to the heart-pounding climax that delivers on all fronts, this film is a masterclass in blockbuster entertainment.

The character development is unexpectedly poignant, adding emotional depth to the colossal spectacle. The meticulous attention to detail in the design of Godzilla and the other monstrous creatures is nothing short of breathtaking. Directorial finesse and a stellar cast contribute to the overall success, making Godzilla Minus One a must-watch for both die-hard fans and newcomers to the genre. It not only pays homage to the iconic franchise but also propels it into a thrilling new era.

Let me be clear - This is a Godzilla movie, as it should be. No ridiculous social lecturing, no out of place bizarre characters that exist only to meet the DEI check boxes. No deviant fetish garbage, that has no place in a kaiju movie.

Well done, Japan! It's great to see someone can produce an actual entertaining movie. This will be a classic for years to come.

Masters of the Air
(2024)

Masters of Hot Air would have been a better title
First and foremost, the writing is a disgrace. The dialogue feels forced and uninspired, lacking the emotional depth that characterized "Band of Brothers." The characters come across as cardboard cutouts, devoid of the complexity and authenticity that made the original series so captivating. It's as if the writers relied on war movie clichés rather than delving into the rich history and personal stories that could have been explored.

Moreover, the pacing is a disaster. "Masters of Air" struggles to maintain a coherent narrative flow, jumping haphazardly between scenes and failing to build any significant tension. The result is a disjointed and confusing viewing experience that leaves the audience disconnected from the supposed emotional core of the story.

The casting choices also leave much to be desired. The performances lack the raw intensity and genuine camaraderie that made the characters in "Band of Brothers" so memorable. Instead, viewers are subjected to a parade of one-dimensional actors delivering forgettable performances that do little to elevate the material.

Visually, the series disappoints as well. The cinematography lacks the grit and authenticity that defined the visuals of "Band of Brothers." Instead of immersing the audience in the harsh realities of war, "Masters of Air" often feels like a glossy, sanitized version of history.

"Masters of Air" is a feeble attempt to recapture the magic of "Band of Brothers." It fails to deliver on every front - from writing and pacing to casting and visuals. Rather than adding to the legacy of its predecessor, this miniseries tarnishes the reputation of the franchise, leaving you yearning for the authenticity and brilliance of the original.

True Detective
(2014)

Ridiculous piercings prevent any immersion in the story
Season 4 EP1 left me utterly dissatisfied, falling far short of the expectations set by its predecessors. The once-gripping crime drama seems to have lost its way, and one of the glaring missteps is the unnecessary distraction caused by a character's ridiculous facial piercings.

From the outset, it was apparent that Season 4 was struggling to find its footing. The storyline lacked the depth and intricacy that made the earlier seasons memorable. Instead of a compelling narrative, viewers were treated to a meandering plot that failed to engage. It felt like the writers were simpy checking off DEI boxes - leading to a series of disjointed events that did little to contribute to the overall story arc.

What's even more bizarre is the decision to introduce a character with distracting facial piercings. While creative choices can enhance a show, these piercings did nothing but divert attention from the storyline. Instead of immersing myself in the mystery at hand, I found myself fixated on the absurdity of these unnecessary adornments. The facial piercings seemed like a desperate attempt to inject edginess into the show without any regard for coherence or narrative impact. Rather than contributing to character development or enriching the storyline, they felt like a cheap gimmick that only served to undermine the seriousness of the crime drama.

TD was once known for its ability to weave intricate plots and delve into the complexities of its characters. Season 4, unfortunately, failed to deliver on these fronts. The distracting facial piercings only highlighted the lack of substance in the storytelling, leaving me questioning the direction the series has taken.

Empire of the Ants
(1977)

A timeless classic from the 70s!
A timeless classic that has left an indelible mark on the science fiction and horror genres since its release in 1977. Directed by the visionary Bert I. Gordon, the film takes audiences on a thrilling and unexpected journey into a world where nature's smallest creatures become the architects of terror.

One of the film's standout features is its innovative and imaginative premise. Gordon skillfully transforms the mundane and often overlooked ant into a formidable force that challenges the boundaries of human survival. The idea of giant, intelligent ants staging a coup against humanity is both captivating and chilling, creating a unique blend of suspense and horror that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

The special effects of "Empire of the Ants" are a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of the filmmaking team. Given the technological limitations of the time, the filmmakers crafted realistic ant models and employed clever camera work to convey a sense of scale. The result is a visually compelling experience that successfully immerses the audience in the terrifying world of giant ants.

The film's pacing is another noteworthy aspect, as it skillfully balances moments of tension and horror with well-timed breaks of character development and plot exposition. The characters, portrayed by a talented ensemble cast, bring depth to the narrative, making the audience genuinely care about their fates as they navigate the perils of the ant-infested landscape.

Furthermore, the musical score adds a haunting and atmospheric layer to the film, enhancing the overall sense of dread and excitement. The combination of eerie visuals, effective sound design, and a gripping storyline makes "Empire of the Ants" a cinematic experience that lingers in the minds of viewers long after the credits roll.

In retrospect, "Empire of the Ants" stands as a testament to the creativity and resilience of filmmakers working within the constraints of their time. It has earned its place in the pantheon of cult classics, appreciated by audiences who enjoy a blend of science fiction, horror, and suspense. This 1977 gem continues to captivate new generations, solidifying its status as an enduring and influential masterpiece in the world of cinema.

Beverly Hills Ninja
(1997)

A comedy masterpiece and what cinema should strive to be
I recently had the pleasure of watching "Beverly Hills Ninja," and let me tell you, it exceeded all my expectations! This comedic masterpiece is an absolute delight from start to finish, offering a unique blend of slapstick humor, martial arts action, and heartwarming moments that make it an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Chris Farley, in the lead role of Haru, delivers a performance that is nothing short of comedic genius. His impeccable timing and physical comedy skills bring Haru to life in a way that only Farley could. The film's humor is both clever and silly, providing laughs for audiences of all ages. Farley's charisma and charm make Haru a lovable character that you can't help but root for.

The storyline is a rollercoaster of laughter and excitement, as Haru, a clumsy yet well-intentioned ninja, finds himself in the glamorous world of Beverly Hills. The fish-out-of-water premise is executed flawlessly, and the comedic situations that arise from Haru's cultural clashes and misadventures are pure gold.

The supporting cast, including the talented Robin Shou and Nicollette Sheridan, complements Farley's energy with their own stellar performances. The chemistry among the actors is palpable, creating a dynamic and entertaining ensemble that keeps the audience engaged throughout.

One of the film's strengths is its ability to seamlessly blend martial arts action with comedy. The fight scenes are choreographed with precision, showcasing Haru's unexpected ninja skills in a way that is both impressive and uproarious. The film manages to pay homage to the martial arts genre while maintaining a lighthearted and comedic tone.

Beyond the laughs, "Beverly Hills Ninja" surprisingly has moments of genuine heart. The film explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the importance of being true to oneself. These heartfelt moments add depth to the narrative and elevate the film beyond a simple comedy, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.

In conclusion, "Beverly Hills Ninja" is a hidden gem that deserves recognition for its outstanding humor, brilliant performances, and unexpected heart. It's a timeless comedy that continues to entertain audiences, making it a must-watch for anyone in need of a good laugh. Chris Farley's legacy shines brightly in this comedic masterpiece, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a hilarious and heartwarming cinematic experience.

We Need to Talk About America
(2022)

Absolute cringefest
Attempts to blend social justice activism with comedy, but unfortunately, it stumbles more than it lands its punchlines. The show features a cast of characters who embody exaggerated stereotypes, both in terms of appearance and behavior, resulting in a cringe-worthy viewing experience.

The presenters, rather than being nuanced and relatable, come across as caricatures designed solely to score points on the diversity checklist. Their physical appearances are exaggerated to the point of absurdity, undermining the very message the show attempts to convey about inclusivity. Instead of fostering understanding, the characters seem more like over-the-top parodies, making it challenging for viewers to take the show's social justice themes seriously.

Andor
(2022)

Yawndor
The only science fiction angle they captured with this release is showing the viewer what 'time dilation' means. When I say this is boring, I mean it's boring as Hell. Complete absence of The Empire, spaceships, action, adventure. It's like being trapped in a dying mall in Boise. Except, you might see a Stormtrooper if you wandered past the sharper image store.

There sure as hell aren't any in this.

And don't come at me with the "you need to watch the first three hours bro" trash. If you can't establish the characters and story and advance the plot prior to three hours, you've made big mistakes. In your writers and the pacing. Which Disney most definitely did with this.

Keep digging, Disney. You've almost completely gutted this IP.

House of the Dragon
(2022)

House of Wigsteros
So many bad wigs, ugh. You'd really think the wig budget would be so much higher for an HBO show. The weird and forced woke/diversity shots became tiresome. We get it, there are minorities in the cast. We don't need a cut away every 15 seconds to show how diverse it is. Just stop already.

On a positive note, Matt Smith is excellent in it. One of the few characters with actual presence.

And I'm really happy to see that Chaka, from Land of the Lost, has finally landed a lead role. It's well overdue.

Full Frontal with Samantha Bee
(2016)

Unfunny woman is finally cancelled. Took long enough.
This show was a one string banjo. TBS has finally cut the string.

Let us all rejoice. No more tedious lectures from a shrieking woman who as never funny nor likable.

Obi-Wan Kenobi
(2022)

Once again, Disney has wrecked what could have been a fool-proof win
How do you screw up Star Wars? Just add a pinch of Disney.

The writing is just awful. Fan fiction writers could have done do so much better. They at least understand the canon, and understand making rabid alterations to check boxes, destroys the product.

Extremely poor casting. Why is the supposed main character, a supporting role for a completely wooden and unlikable lead of Reva?

The casting choices for Lei and Reva are so terrible that you have to wonder who was being blackmailed? I get it, you want to check boxes. But surely there are competent actors out there who can not only fill the niche you want, yet also be skilled in their craft.

Laughable VFX. The land speeder racing up to the landing dock on the empire's station, and then just hovering feet away from Reva? Looked like something a 7-year-old would come up with. Tell me this. When the rebels were fighting the AT-ATs on Hoth, why didn't they use their amazing hover capability to just stay behind the walkers and shoot from the rear - never facing their forward guns? I mean, come on.

The amazing 5 foot 10 inch Vader. Why does he look like a too-short guy at Comic Con in this? Also, he can pick up massive hunks of machinery using his force powers in every other movie, yet can't snatch Kenobi across a 7 foot fire swath?

Keep going, Disney. Soon people will be reminiscing how great the prequels were. Oh wait, they already are.

Hiyama Kentarô no ninshin
(2022)

Just too weird and boring for me
Only watched the first episode and was strange. I don't get what appeal this might have, unless it was supposed to be a mild psycho-horror thing? Well, It wasn't. This was just gross and weird for the sake of it. And boring to top it all off. I turned it off after 45 minutes in.

No wonder Netflix is tanking so hard. Bad. Real bad.

Santa Inc.
(2021)

Just gross and unfunny
Nothing redeeming beyond the animation. What a shame to waste that talent on lewd trash like this. Rogen and his bad, unfunny comedy are just tired at this point. If you thought sasaugefest or whatever it was was bad, this is much worse.

Maybe stop trying to ruin everything for everyone.

Cowboy Bebop
(2021)

Hello, my name is...
Ridiculous casting decisions.

I was skeptical about the casting of Jet and Spike.

John Cho and Mustafa Shakira actually nail their parts, cosmetic dissimilarities aside. You know they are familiar with the original anime and succeed bringing that to their parts.

Now to the absolute ridiculous casting of Faye and Vicious. Pineda cast as Faye is completely incorrect for the role. She makes no attempt to even try and pull off the role. Pineda is playing Pineda. What she thinks its a wacky, great interpretation of Faye completely misses the mark. Really destroys the flow of the series As well as being in insult to the original. Terrible actress to boot.

Vicious -What the hell were they thinking? This interpretation is the opposite of Vicious. Uncertain, anxious and weird, not intimidating. The guy is hammy. Another massive casting failure. Not to mention he looks wall-eyed.

Intergalactic
(2021)

tried to make it past two episodes...
The acting is below any standard I've seen.

The scammers that call my phone every day pretending to be from Amazon are more convincing.

The writing is just as poor. It's borderline nonsensical.

The effects were like something from the early 90s. Lackluster all around.

Some might say it gets better the more watch.

You know what else gets better with the more you have? Toilet wine.

You've been warned.

Tha God's Honest Truth with Charlamagne Tha God
(2021)

How did this get on the air?
How this got on a major network is beyond comprehension. It's cable-access level cringe. And "tha god" can barely enunciate the racist trash he is spewing. Unfunny and just gross on every level.

Tha God's Honest Truth with Charlamagne Tha God
(2021)

How did this get on the air?
How this got on a major network is beyond comprehension. It's cable-access level cringe. And "tha god" can barely enunciate the racist trash he is spewing. Unfunny and just gross on every level.

The Walking Dead: World Beyond
(2020)

The dead may walk, but the teens waddle
This is just laughably bad. The acting, the terrible script, the casting.

It's really a stain on the whole franchise.

One thing is a mystery though. How is obesity a thing in an apocalyptic scenario where food is scarce and the need to be mobile and fast an essential trait?

Just another WTH choice made by whoever runs this clown show.

Loki
(2021)

What in the ever loving...
Hey remember how they torched Dr. Who with bad acting and annoying woke BS chracters that suck?

Well if you don't, watch WOKI! And live through it all again.

This has become so very tiresome.

Ghostbusters
(2016)

Truly as bad as they warned me it was
I really like Kristen Wig and its hard to believe they had her in this; yet its as bad as it is. Stale jokes. Forced laughing at their own lame jokes. Ridiculous premises. Poorly written.

I felt dirty after seeing this. I felt like I had watched my parents copulate.

I have no idea how they managed to get the cameo spots from the originals. I'd be really pissed if I made the original and saw how badly this attempt butchered it.

Almost Heroes
(1998)

The Pinnacle of Comedy
This is comedy at it's very best. This movie will go down as a masterpiece of contemporary comedic genius. Do yourself a favor and see this amazing film.

Before Sunrise
(1995)

Perfection in the simplicity of dialogue
It's nice to see this movie from a time when movies had substance and emphasis on genuine content. You can't find a movie (in the mainstream) that does this today.

Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch
(2021)

Please.
How to have no credibility - have dreadlocks at 40. Combine Ghost Hunters and Burning Man with ridiculously bad local theater acting. You'll see what I am talking about if you have an hour to waste.

The Daily Show
(1996)

Trevor Noah killed this show
Guy is seriously bad. Way to eviscerate another show with a talentless hack spewing talking points for the DNC. It's really tiresome and people are beyond sick of it.

The Misery Index
(2019)

Horrible. Just horrible.
This show is a dialtone. The only thing worse than the lame jokes and forced laugh track is the absolutely terrible wig the host wears. I mean, it's party-city-tier cheap. You'd think they could at least scare up something that looks natural. Have I mentioned the cheap and hideous wig the host wears? I just want to make sure that it left a very negative impression. Maybe they could use her tragic cranial prosthesis as one of their 'misery index' clips.

Wonder Woman
(2017)

Gadot makes Taylor Lautner look like a master thespian...
Finally we can pass "The Pinnochio - most wooden performance in a movie or series" to Gadot. After Taylor Lautner has held this award for years, he must finally relinquish the title to Gal Gadot. She's stiffer than a Gaza border checkpoint. Not to mention the plot is downright boring. I don't know if this was intentional to match Gadot's dialtone performance? May never know. Surely we won't care, as this flic is about as forgettable as they come.

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