Review Guardian Angel a.k.a. Beyond Justice (1994): One of the better Cynthia Rothrock films!

genre: martial arts, action, crime

Guardian Angel is a B movie through and through. One with adequate budget and cast. One could even argue that the writing is decent. I personally, don't think so. It's an incredibly minimal and lazy story that barely moves events along. But most important, the focus lies on Cynthia Rothrock and I couldn't get enough of her.

Cynthia McKay is a hard-boiled cop whose fiancée gets murdered right in front of her. Naturally, this has some impact, and she can't control herself once confronted with Nina Lindell. She smacks her and then gets suspended by her superior. Instead of accepting her fate calmly, she quits. Very convenient, of course, because now she can be hired as a bodyguard by Hobbs, played by Daniel McVicar (most famous for Bold and Beautiful). Not before she has a mental breakdown to get through, where her dog serves as therapist. These were genuine funny moments and I wished they had more of them since the dog is super cute and a phenomenal actor. However, once Daniel appears, the viewing experience also increases. He truly is a charming and funny guy who elevates every scene he is in. I liked how they were too obvious the relationship between him and her would evolve and yet didn't force it. 

But there is a reason why Hobbs has hired her specifically. He is being targeted by Nina Lindell who is the main villain of the story. She is very effective, since she is attractive but at the same time a very despicable person even the scummiest thugs are afraid of. She does enough to ham up her role as is required. Too bad that she and Cynthia have a proper fight together. They avoided it since it's very apparent that she doesn't know martial arts. It wouldn't look good.

The action is nice. Nothing memorable. But it's a decent combination of martial arts and gun play. It will entertain you while it lasts. And for films like these, that is all I want. I do think, that this is one of the better Cynthia Rothrock films, so one I can recommend!

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Review Fast Getaway II (1994): Terrible sequel!

genre: action, crime, comedy

The original already wasn't a masterpiece, but it was entertaining. In this sequel, many characters return and some new ones are added. Seems Nelson (Corey Haim) has done well for himself and started an insurance company. His main job is to evaluate security measures of banks. So he managed to embrace his passion in the fullest way. Unfortunately, without his father (Leo Rossi) who is in some low security prison. 

And guess who is back also, yes, Cynthia Rothrock. She is hot and even more dangerous than usual. They decided to increase her role somewhat, which is a good move, since she provides the little entertainment that is present. Haim on his own is unbearable. He has no chemistry with Sarah Buxton who plays Patrice. I don't know what they told her how to play her role. But she completely fails. This film could have done without her. At one point, the father is out of the prison and teams up with his son, so that they can prove his innocence. Like in the original, Rossi and Haim have real good chemistry. And makes you wonder why Rossi wasn't in the film from the beginning. Then there is this ultra stuck FBI agent, named Rankin. I am aware that for this part, they focused on comedy. Or at least, tried to, since most jokes fall flat. This Rankin guy is almost everywhere and highly annoying.

The plot in essence is very simple but told in a convoluted way. You won't care one bit. The one real and big action sequence at the end won't satisfy your needs, especially you have to go to some real torturous and boring scenes to get there. And once again, they did Rothrock a disservice, who gets knocked out by Patrice with one punch. Like she ever could land a real punch on her. It's Cynthia we are talking about.

Overall, this sequel is awful. Sure, there are some moments where I chuckled. Especially when Cynthia was doing her thing. But it's not enough to redeem itself. Don't watch it!

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Review Fast Getaway (1991): I rented this because of Cynthia Rothrock!

genre: action, comedy, crime

Believe it or not, back in the day, this title was very popular in the video rental store. If my memory doesn't fail me, I even had to reserve this one in order to get a hold of it. This popularity undoubtedly was because of Cynthia Rothrock's presence. Imagine my disappointment when I found out her role was a lot smaller than I had anticipated. Her being the main villain of the story also felt weird, since that was very rare for her. She definitely made her presence known in the few minutes she is present. So, after all these years, how do I feel about this film now? 

Not going to lie. I had to force myself to sit through some torturous scenes, mainly due to Corey Haim being extremely cheerful and hyperactive. It could very well be that he was under the influence. It's incredibly annoying. The first time I watched this film, I didn't even notice, let alone be bothered by it. I just took it as an ultimate expression of the love he had for his father, played by Leo Rossi. When they are together, the dynamics are great. Leo Rossi on his own is good, but he shines when he gets to play off Haim. And you better like it too, since those dynamics are the saving grace of this film. For an action comedy, the action is not that impressive. One would think that with Cynthia in the house, they couldn't go wrong, and yet they did. They should have allowed her to do more. But I must admit that it was funny to see her as a woman in control even when she is not particularly bright.

The dynamics increase when a third player comes into the mix, in the form of Lorraine, played by Marcia Strassman. It's so obvious who she is and yet Haim's character, the genius, is clueless. It does make you wonder why the film wasn't about them instead of backstabbing partners and the consequences. 

In any case, Fast Getaway, was fun overall, although, it did take me some time to get into it properly. 

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Review The Inheritance (2024): Lacklustre viewing experience!

genre: thriller, mystery, horror

Yesterday, I saw that a title, Inheritance, was available to rent. I saw the trailer and thought, that could be interesting. Only to realize that I had watched the trailer of The Inheritance, a title that was released in 2024. I wished people would do their best to come up with better titles. Or at least more original titles. Sometimes, it's downright confusing. In any case, I went for The Inheritance. 

And I regret doing so. Since, it's worse than I thought. I already wasn't expecting much. I did expect to get a few laughs out of it, but nothing more. This film couldn't even give me that. Abernathy family members have been called out by their father, who has an important message. The message is, that he is going to be killed and that his children should protect him at all costs, otherwise they won't get their inheritance. While one could argue about the originality of this premise. On paper, this could have been really compelling. Unfortunately, the family members don't take things that seriously until something terrible happens. You would think that this would motivate these people to band together and a put a stop to it. But no, it's more or less everyone for themselves. This too could have been interesting. Yet, none of the events do anything but bore you to death. Events are rarely creepy. But scary and thrilling? Nope!

The cast is pretty decent. But there aren't enough of them to serve as red herrings. I secretly was hoping for a reveal that would put things upside down at the end. But of course, these filmmakers couldn't be bothered. They also, couldn't be bothered to put in scares. For a while it did seem like they were trying to increase the dread and tension. Key word is trying. They miserably failed.

Overall, the whole viewing experience felt lacklustre and I didn't feel like talking about, let alone do a video review. In my opinion, it's not worth it.

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Review Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers (1995): The weakest in the franchise!

genre: slasher, horror, thriller

This entry follows the plot of Halloween V but Jamie is now an adult about to deliver a baby. Allegedly, the father is Michael Myers. That is pretty sick and doesn't make much sense since he is all about death and wants to kill of people. Why would he even allow this to happen? Why would he allow the cult of Thorn to exert power over him? Mind you, this does get explained, but it's one of the many problems I have with this part.

Let me start with the introduction of Tommy. One of the survivors from the original film. He is portrayed by Paul Rudd, and he apparently is heavily traumatized. So much so that he himself comes across as creepy. You can tell that Rudd was at the beginning of his career because he fails to pull it off. Still, he plays a character who helps out people, and you do root for him. Especially, since even when afraid, he is fighting the good fight. Dr. Loomis also is back, although he is called back after finally retiring. He seemed happy, and then he gets pulled back in. This also does get explained. But very likely, they asked him to come back to make this part more authentic. 

If you remember, at the end of Halloween V, someone in cowboy boots shot up the people in the police station that had taken Michael Myers in custody. With all the police men dead, this allows Michael to flee the scene. And once again, evil incarnate is loose. Who in their right mind would allow this devil to run free. This is where the cult of Thorn and mysticism comes in. One could argue, that this take on Michael Myers is something new. It completely destroys what the original Michael Myers stands for. Like I said, he is evil incarnate. Why? He just is. And you can't stop him. That is what makes him scary. The version of Michael in this part is barely creepy. There is nothing frightening about him. I also don't think the kills were that impressive and memorable. 

There is no way of sugarcoating it. But Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers is bad, real bad. I had hoped that it would be so bad that it would become good. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Sure, I chuckled a couple of times. Although, more because of disbelief instead of genuinely being entertained. In all honesty, I was bored most of the time. 

Overall, for me this is, definitely, the weakest in the franchise! Not one I can recommend!

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Review Godzilla vs. Destroyah a.k.a. Gojira vs. Desutoroiâ (1995): Dark entry in the franchise!

genre: kaiju, science fiction, action, adventure, disaster

Considered to be among the best films in the franchise, naturally, this title has a lot to live up to. I didn't realize it immediately, but I think I watched this one before but forgot all about it. Usually, that doesn't bode well for the title. Let me explain!

Like with the earlier Godzilla films, this film is a serious affair. Very serious! And while I can appreciate that, the monsters in the films are still a bunch of men in suits. They make it look great. But to me, some tongue-in-cheek humour is needed to increase the fun factor. Unfortunately, this is not present at all. There is a lot of exposition in the film concerning the monsters, especially Godzilla. And I think that is a mistake. In this case it would have been better had they shown it instead of telling. The main characters literally blurt out their intentions and actions, completely destroying the surprises one could have. It's almost miraculous that despite this, the film still manages to surprise you at the end. Although, it is tied to an immensely dramatic moment, and yes, I felt it. I understand, why people, love this film so much. It tugs at the heartstrings a lot.

That being said, I thought, the pacing was horrible. I didn't care much for the characters. They are all regarded as geniuses. Even the young kid, who even admits that he wasn't that good of a student. But because of his roots and own thesis on the matter is seen as an expert on the matter. Only a couple of times do they question it, but for the most part they follow his suggestions to the letter. I am aware, that his story is tied to a character in the original Godzilla and that is why they respect the family so much. I just didn't care for it. Actually, in my opinion, the human element, often distract from the main attraction. Whenever Godzilla or other monsters are on the screen, it's top tier entertainment. I just love the mayhem and destruction portrayed on screen. Sure, it's sad for the city and people, but for me, the viewer, it's entertaining. To have that joy be interrupted by illogical science speak is a crime in my book. Destroyah, and the ideas concerning him, are pretty good. But the way he looks makes it hard to take him seriously. It's too rubbery. You are required to use a lot of your imagination to be impressed by him. I do respect his origin story and abilities, though.

Overall, I managed to overlook the many flaws of this film and kind of appreciate the dark turns they have taken. The ending is dubious but awesome at the same time! Despite its ultimate seriousness, there is fun to be had whenever the destruction ensues. I just wished, there was more of it!

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Review The Way of the Dragon a.k.a. Meng long guo jiang ( 1972 / Limited Edition 4K UHD): Probably the best version to own!

genre: martial arts, crime

The Way of the Dragon is the directorial debut of Bruce Lee. He also wrote and produced it. I have to be honest here, the story and the way the film ties up the little bits of story with the action is not that noteworthy. 

It's not bad by any means, but like for example the betrayal part comes out of nowhere and doesn't make much sense. Had the delivery of that scene been more tragic and dramatic, then perhaps it would have intensified the viewing experience. The evil laugh just made it cartoonish. The goons in the film are also super goofy. They certainly didn't know how to fight. I think they should have done their best to make them more dangerous and menacing. It also doesn't help that the film very randomly shows of the sights of Rome. Couldn't they have integrated that a little better? Very likely, a budget issue. I don't mind it that much, but it does affect the pacing.

So what about the fights? Obviously, another showcase of what Bruce Lee was capable of. And like with his other films, that never gets old. Still, like I said earlier, I wished the fights were more intense and meaningful. Like they were in The Big Boss and Fist of Fury. The main baddie (John T. Benn), is not really convincing as a villain. The only good thing he did was hiring three extraordinary fighters portrayed by Bob Wall, In-shik Hwang and Chuck Norris. The fight between Bruce and Chuck is certainly the highlight of the film. It's one of the first fights I can think of that truly shows the philosophy of martial arts. You get to see both martial artists warm up and expose their fitness. Especially, Bruce Lee is a sight to behold. He is all muscles. The fight itself is exciting, but what impressed me more is the respect given to each other. At one point, Chuck is severely hurt, Bruce hints to stop the fight, but Chuck, as the warrior he is, wants to keep going. While a bit reluctant, they carry on and Chuck dies. The sadness in Bruce's face says it all. To honour Chuck, he covers him with his jacket and belt. Then Bruce realizes this all could have been avoided and wants to take it out on the people responsible. This fight did more with me than everything before and yes for this fight that is a good thing. For the whole film it points out the weaknesses. 

Overall, I did like the comedic bits initially. It does show a more lighthearted Bruce who isn't afraid to poke fun at himself. And that is something I can appreciate. But let's be real, we want him to kick ass and nothing else. So you might be thrown off a little if you are waiting for the fights. The disc comes with all kinds of extras which I haven't paid attention to. I will eventually since they do seem worth checking out. Like with the previous 4K versions, this is probably the best version to watch and own. 

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Review The Demon's Bride a.k.a Pengantin Iblis (2025): Not one I can recommend!

genre: horror

The basic premise is that a mother (Ranti) is forced to marry a demon in order to cure her daughter. Of course, this is a bad idea. But the film does a good job of explaining why she resorted to such an extreme measure.

For whatever reason, this film immediately opens with a pivotal sequence. I understand they did this to intrigue people. But I think it's a mistake. They should have started with the scene that comes after. It explains how her life is and how she doesn't get much support. Especially, from her husband. Thankfully, she does have a good friend in Gita (Arla Ailani Muchtar), her sister-in-law. Her husband's family are awful to her. Her mother-in-law keeps complaining and bitching how she doesn't do anything right, even when she does the most work. She sells precooked chickens on the market, she does the chores in the house, takes care of everyone in the house (also money wise). God forbid, she would ask someone else in the family to do something for her while she is running errands. It's even more aggravating when you see how lazy and useless other family members are. Siti, who is pregnant, is not that lazy, but she is very hostile towards Ranti. And there is absolutely no reason for her to be like that.

Then tragedy occurs and Ranti needs money for her daughter's surgery. None of them are willing to help out. They explain, they can't because they don't have the means. Although, it's implied, they do have the means, but aren't willing to share. Out of despair, Ranti goes to the woman who offered her a good deal, which of course will have dire consequences. Immediately after the ritual, she sows the rewards. Not only has her daughter been saved from dying, she also can walk again. However, it's here when Ranti is starting to change. And it's here where the film starts to have some major pacing issues. I get that they were trying to increase tension. Only, in my opinion, they failed to do that. It's too obvious something is wrong with Ranti. When you do these possessions kind of films, subtlety is important. Ranti looks and acts pretty evil throughout. And it doesn't help that when family members have been brutally murdered, grandma asks everyone to keep things quiet. Why? She says, she doesn't want the people to know. Yeah, so? It's one of the most stupid reasons I have ever heard. Mind you, it could be a case of appeasing the demon and that she was afraid of what was going to happen. You would then think, they would do their best to seek help. It's here where the film really fails. They realized black magic was used. Instead of getting a professional, they went to their neighbour, who told them to pray. Such a laughable suggestion when dealing with demons, but they listen and do relatively nothing. They should have done so, since that would have made events more compelling. I don't think it's particularly interesting when you know how events are going to turn out. All the blood and gore in the world is not going to compensate for that.

The film ends with a predictable cliffhanger ending and makes you realize, you wasted a lot of precious time. The biggest problem I have is that the film is not scary. It fails to build up proper tension and dread. It easily could have replaced filler scenes with scares or terror. The few scenes that are close fail to deliver by the way people react to them. The husband sees something vile happening and he does nothing. These people are so passive. I already thought that most family members deserved what they got. After that scene, he definitely deserved it. Overall, not one I can recommend.

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Review Diablo (2025): Scott Adkins has done better!

genre: action, martial arts, crime

Scott Adkins is a pretty good actor when given the chance. He is also a phenomenal martial artist. You would think that this is a winning combination within the action genre. But time and time again he manages to be in films that are less deserving of his skills. Diablo is one of them.

For this film however, both he and Mark Zaror are also attached as writers and producers. This to me suggests they did have some control and still failed. Like the writing for example. Essentially, it's a simple story, which is good in an action film. But it's infected with lore a la John Wick or No Country for Old Men. Mark Zaror as El Corvo, the crow, likes to play around with his victims. He wants them to enjoy a last gift before he murders them. And yes, on paper this sounds cool and edgy. The way it is executed though came of as cheesy. For the most part due to Zaror's delivery. He is awful. He is Chilean, yet in the film pretends to not understand and speak Spanish. It's weird.

Then the dynamics between Kris Chaney and Elisa played by Alanna De La Rossa. She gets kidnapped and very much acts like a girl who is kidnapped. It's understandable she is resisting Kris all the way. Even when he claims he is her real father. But the way she responds to certain allegations is simply dumbfounding. But, I could give her the benefit of a doubt since she is unwantingly confronted with some truths she is not prepared for. Doesn't mean, that some of the interactions weren't annoying. 

The film also suffers from pacing issues. For a 90-minute film, it sure takes a long time to get to the point. It certainly doesn't help that for an action flick, there is not that much action to be enjoyed. Fortunately, the majority of the action that is present is good. You will be entertained. But not going to lie, I expected better from both Scott Adkins and Mark Zaror. So can I recommend this film? No, Scott Adkins especially has done better. Take Accident Man 2 or One More Shot for example.

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Review The Surfer (2024): Anxiety inducing!

genre: thriller, drama

We didn't go into the acting and visuals, but those are fine. Actually, the film is visually very pleasing. But it won't enhance the viewing experience because of the story and how that plays out. Also, when we mention, things aren't clear, it's not like we need things to be spelled out. But you do need to give us something to chew on. Only in very little bits are you given info on that things don't seem to be going well for Cage's character. He clearly is not OK. Yet, we never really get to know why or how. I wished films like these would at least give us an idea how some character was before so that we can do a comparison. Films that can't be bothered to even do that are lazy. 

Please watch / listen to our thoughts on The Surfer.

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