Review Snow White and the Huntsman (2012)

genre: fantasy, action, adventure

It is not avoidable to mention Mirror Mirror from Tarsem Singh since Snow White and The Huntsman and Mirror Mirror were put against each other. There is a chance that if you were to see these two back to back that you it might cross your mind that somehow they switched up directors. Since Snow White and the Huntsman is more like the movie Tarsem Singh would have made especially compared to his earlier films The Cell and The Fall. It should come as no surprise that I think Mirror Mirror is the lesser of the two. Why that is? Read my review of Mirror Mirror. Does that make the Huntsman version a good movie? In some ways it certainly is but there are some crucial elements where it fails miserably that damage the film beyond repair. One of those elements is Kristen Stewart as Snow White. Are you kidding me? Let's forget about her acting talents for a minute. Is she supposed to be fairer than Charlize Theron? Even wrinkled and older Charlize is more beautiful than Kristen Stewart on her best. I am sorry but that is one of the biggest mistakes in miscasting I have ever seen in my life. Do I really need to discuss her acting abilities? She can't act. The other actors act like crazy to compensate for her lack off. Chris Hemsworth and Charlize Theron are the ones that carry the movie. Hemsworth surprised me and shows there is more to him when given the chance. Well, I knew Charlize Theron would be perfect as the Evil Queen. She really is a good actress. And it is only right that a lot of the scenes are focused on her and her wickedness. The action scenes are ranging from decent to good.  And some visuals certainly looked beautiful. Only it was lacking that something that could have made me appreciate them more. In one scene Snow White is supposed to represent life. If Bob Hoskins as a dwarf didn't tell the viewer I would never have guessed it since you know Kristen Stewart is completely lifeless. Here is an example where excess in special effects and scenery could have illustrated this important part of the story. (Slight spoiler) Then another pivotal and famous scene where Snow White is awakened never gets explained. Sure we all know the story but they changed so many details why not fill the viewer in why it strayed away from the original one. As a surprise it fails since I expected it to happen since they given the Huntsman so much importance. (End slight spoiler) This could be said about a lot of interesting elements in the film. Certain events just happen but barely are given a back story. Only briefly we are informed of why The Evil Queen has become so evil. Also not a word about her deep connection with her brother. He apparently also is protected from certain dangers. It's these details that give depth to characters. Which is much needed when the story is kept simple. Another huge crucial flaw is the lack of build up and tension. It is important to let the viewer know that the situation is dire and hopeless and that the battles are truly a matter of life and death. Not once does this happen. And the overall end result is that the film feels slow. However there are some small redeeming factors. No pun intended. Brilliant British actors like Ian Mcshane,  Ray Winstone and Bob Hoskins as dwarves. That surely is something you simply have to see. Overall this movie is worth watching once. But I can't guarantee you won't be disappointed.

   

Review Vibes (1988): Charming little comedy!

genre: comedy, adventure, science fiction

Vibes, a charming little comedy that for the most part doesn't take itself too seriously. 

The plot is subjective to the interactions between Jeff Goldblum and Cyndi Lauper. It's obvious that these characters are to be united through their adventure. But it is not so in your face that it becomes tedious or annoying like you see in many romantic comedies. Cindy Lauper is beyond adorable and actually very funny throughout the movie. And she can also bring some dramatic touches to her character as well. Jeff Goldblum is Jeff Goldblum. He can bring sophistication and suave even when he is put in one ludicrous situation after another. Peter Falk is brilliant as always. 

A title that is easy to overlook but certainly worth the watch.

Review Eyewitness (1981): A little too underwhelming!

genre:thriller

Eyewitness is not the usual murder mystery you would expect. Since it seems to be more about the characters than the intrigue. And luckily these characters are portrayed by some truly big names. Like William Hurt, James Woods, Sigourney Weaver, Morgan Freeman and Christopher Plummer.

Despite the lack of suspense there is something about the way Daryll Deever (William Hurt) our anti-hero interacts with Tony Sokolow (Sigourney Weaver). His lines when he approaches her are cheesy and comical yet effective since he delivers them with confidence. Or the friendship between Daryll and Aldo Mercer (James Woods). You wonder if these two would have been buddies if not for the Vietnam War. Also, with the way Aldo is acting you never quite know what his game is. Woods is ideal for this role, since he can play the most obnoxious and annoying character and still come off as sympathetic. I, personally, didn't care much for the political message that was interwoven in the film, even if it is still a very actual topic. It came across as a bit preachy to me. 

This is one of those movies that I find a little challenging to recommend. I mean, while the acting is more than solid. It is supposed to be a thriller. And with the lack of real thrills and tension, this might be a little too underwhelming for some. One to watch on a rainy Sunday.

Review Shadow Hearts (ps2)

genre: JRPG

Shadow Hearts had the bad luck to come out the same time when Final Fantasy X was released. Of course it was an impossible task to compete with such an established game series off epic proportions. Naturally it got snowed under and demolished. But Shadow Hearts is an RPG that is grand in it's own right.

What it lacks in visuals more than compensates it with gameplay. The Judgement Ring is one of the most simple but creative ways to make turn based role playing more fun and proactive. This is how you add intensity and diversity without upsetting fans. This addition is much needed since the story isn't the most intriguing or complicated at first. It took me a while to get into the story. Although there is some depth added at certain key events by introducing some nasty villains and some colourful team members. Who along the way will be the cause of some surprises. One huge event comes to mind of such epic proportions that could be seen as a game changer. Sadly the events after don't really reach that level shock wise but by that time it doesn't matter much since you will be hooked in. The gameplay accordingly increases when new options open up when Yuri (main character) is able to evolve his abilities. Other team members also have their own unique skill set. I am a sucker for these fantastic CGI scenes when they display these awesome abilities. In that aspect it is similar to those stronger magic spells you see in Final Fantasy 7 and higher. It's one of those elements I never get tired off since it adds to the experience. And it makes the battles more exhilarating.

What about grinding? For the most part it's not necessary to do. Shadow Hearts is a relatively easy game especially for experienced gamers. Still doesn't mean there is no challenge to be found. Some bosses acquire you to need have certain equipment on you need since they can dish out some nasty spells. You also have to keep an eye on Sanity Points (SP) next to the usual HP and MP. When you deplete these Sanity Points you go bezerk and lose control over the character. Which in most cases is bad since often it will result in death. A lot of these predicaments can be avoided if you take the time to explore and find new items. One method of acquiring valuable items is by equipping a pedometer that will count your steps in dangerous areas. The number of steps then can be exchanged. (So you are encouraged to do a little grinding). Another method is the lottery. Spread out through the game are these lottery members where you can play a mini game for some very useful items and equipment. You can engage them once you have found a lottery ticket also scattered throughout the game. Since they are rare it is advised to save the game before doing the lottery otherwise you will miss out. For a real challenge their are these pit fights where you have to fight a series of monsters one on one without saving or being able to heal up or use items before the battles commence.

It is very well possible that you might have overlooked certain optional key items on your first playthrough which could have consequences for some of the side quests. (Some locactions won't be available after having visited them.) But not to an extent that it will prevent you from finishing the game. You do have to keep in mind that some boss battles will take longer to finish if you aren't leveled up properly or lacking items or weapons that make things easier. To get most out of the gameplay I recommend to do the side missions especially when you want to get ultimate weapons and armor. Side quest bosses are much harder than the main quest ones. And by doing these side missions you get a little more back story on the characters which is always nice. Personally I always try to do every possible quest that will aid me or deepen the experience since I rarely replay RPG games once I finished them. And in this case it is worth do so. One example getting the Final Fusion Seraphic Radiance for our main character Yuri. A mouth full but so much fun to use. What do you mean overpowered?  

Shadow Hearts wasn't the first game in the franchise I played. It was Shadow Hearts From The New World which introduced me to this wonderful series and am glad that it did since I am now itching to play Shadow Hearts Covenant regarded as the best in the series .For people who love JRPG's this is a game that deserves as much attention as the more popular ones. Story wise it might be a bit underwhelming but gameplay wise it is top notch. Definitely worth your time! 

Review Return to Horror High (1987): From start to finish a blast to watch!

genre: horror, slasher, mystery, comedy

To make it absolutely clear so that there is no confusion I absolutely loved this movie and I will tell you why that is.

In Short:

Return to Horror High plays around with the convention and rules established in the horror genre. And did it long before Cabin in the Woods and Scream. Yet this piece of gem gets bashed. Now I certainly will be the first to agree that this film is far from perfect in fact very much flawed and on occasion confusing. Especially since there might be a twist ending too many. Still, I found myself entertained and intrigued by the whole concept. A lot of criticism seems to be about the structure of the film. The film within a film apparently is too much for some viewers. (But if Christopher Nolan does it in Inception then suddenly it is brilliant. Go Figure!) Ok. There might be some arguments to support the fact that it's not clear all the time when a scene is real or when it is part of the film (film in film). (Even when there are enough clues in these scenes to give it away, like using the same actress wearing wigs or playing different characters). But that is the whole point. It leaves you guessing. Throughout the movie the viewer is thrown several gimmicks, red herrings, twist and turns that will make your head spin. Anyone displayed on the screen could be the killer. So it actually becomes fun to figure out who it is. Some twists do require to put logic aside. It is asked of you to accept certain events and developments as they are and not think about them too long. But there is one thing that is absolutely needed in order to enjoy Return of Horror High. You need to pay attention! When you do most of the structure and plot will be much easier to follow. And then it is just a matter of sitting back and enjoy the craziness.

It's a real mystery to me why Return to Horror High is so highly disregarded and so underrated. Especially since from start to finish this is a blast to watch. Not taking itself seriously, playing around with the horror convention and George Clooney are just a few of the good things that this film has to offer. So don't believe the bad IMDB rating or mostly negative reviews. One to watch!

Review Cabin in the Woods (2012)

genre:comedy, horror

When I heard Cabin in the Woods, Joss Whedon and Evil Dead mentioned in the same sentence I knew all there is to know about it for me to look forward to it. I avoided reviews and forums since I wanted to watch this movie without any knowledge about it so that I could totally immerse myself in it. Now after having seen it I can say that my viewing experience was very different from what I expected it to be. First off the whole Evil Dead homage/tribute has to be taken in with a few grains of salt. Since it is limited to some references. There were two obvious scenes that could be regarded as those. One where we first get to see the Cabin, almost a dead ringer for the one in Evil Dead. And another scene that resembles the way the Evil is called upon. And come to think of it the chopped off zombie hand also might be considered a reference to Evil Dead 2. But that was all there is to it. A bit thin if you ask me. I had hoped they would have paid tribute by adopting some of the style or the way Sam Raimi build up tension and scares. Which comes to my biggest gripe with Cabin in the Woods. It's not scary. Generally I like horror comedies and don't mind if it is more comedy than horror. But in this case I expected it to be the other way around. That's the problem if you claim it is in the vein of Evil Dead. With all the silliness and goofiness that goes around in Evil Dead it's scary and pure horror through and through. The sequel was more comedic but still genuine horror. Cabin in the Woods does have some horror moments that make up for the lack of especially in the last twenty minutes. Only could be seen as a little too late. Anyway once you realize it's not exactly in the vein as Evil Dead the whole experience becomes more enjoyable. I did appreciate the parts where they played around with the conventions and rules of horror. And giving us answers and  reasons why people in horror movies act so stupid. It seems there is more of cleverness like this almost warranting a second view. For which I still have to think about. Overall I found Cabin the Woods to be very entertaining but it is nowhere near a masterpiece like Evil Dead is.

Extra note:

More and more references suddenly come to mind when I think about it which might increase my appreciation and change my view more in favour than it is currently. To be continued.

Review Clownhouse (1989)

genre: horror,thriller

The less you know about this film the more you will be able to enjoy it. There is not much plot. Clownhouse works because it heavily relies on atmosphere just as director Victor Salva did in Jeepers Creepers. We know who the killer clowns are and we know what they are capable of. Extra tension is added because our main character is truly afraid of clowns. Of the two brothers he has one who is supportive and tries to take this fear seriously while the other (Sam Rockwell) makes fun of him initially. Sam's character is not always consistent as at rare moments he does show compassion to let it go the next minute. The three brothers are left on their own in their big house who at one point gets invaded by the killer clowns. These clowns take their time and wait for suitable moments to strike and attack the unsuspecting kids and this is where it starts to get interesting. You never quite know when they will make their move. But I have to admit the tension building is not consistent because the fights between the brothers are distracting and takes away the focus. Also it was a little hard to overlook the fact that the kids could flee outside any moment in stead of staying and hiding in the house. Same goes for the moment our main character calls the police and is not taken seriously. Of course not, he said killer clowns were in his house. Would you believe that? Right before he had his wits about him but suddenly he was super scared again. Ok,we have to assume that this boy was totally panicking and did not know what to say. Still it was one of those annoying moments where characters act illogically. All in all Clownhouse is pretty effective if you keep your expectations low. This one will be scary for people who dislike clowns. The rest of the viewers will appreciate the creepiness, but that is about it.

Review The Pyjama Girl Case (1977): Give this one a shot when your expectations are low.

genre: murder mystery, tragedy, giallo

This film is unlike your typical giallo. If anything this is more a tragedy then a murder mystery. There are two story lines. One where retired detective Ray Milland is brought in to solve the Pyjama Girl Case and the other is about Glenda (played by the beautiful Dalila Di Lazzaro) and her tragic life. At one point these stories come together. And that will be the moment the viewer will think it's brilliant or will feel tricked. I myself thought it was quite clever. But I can't escape the feeling that it wasn't satisfying enough. Especially since the two story lines weren't that remarkable. And what there was of substance was filled with montage scenes that very rarely served a purpose. Backed up my funky music that did not belong in this movie at all. Ray Milland at first seems a little underused. But even then he manages to outshine the rest of the cast. He actually is one of the few that is on the right track but doesn't get the cooperation he needs until it's too late. The other story is quite depressing really. Glenda's life is truly tragic. But apart from her amorous adventures and one very unpleasant sex scene it's not quite clear why Glenda feels the way she does or what she wants in life. Now that could be said of a lot of people who are searching for something but can't find it. It did make me wonder about her expectations. I did not see any dialogue between here and others about those things. To me it came across she did not really make an effort either to change or at least address her unhappiness. In her defense though the men she is seeing are a little too much concerned with themselves. So she might not feel able to express herself fully. Matters like these interest me. But even I need more to keep me interested. And I barely managed that. I certainly can understand that some won't like this all because it's lacking some of the main ingredients that make giallo's so great. It's difficult to recommend this one. At the same time it is difficult to qualify this as an average or even bad title. Give this one a shot when your expectations are low.

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Review Battleship (2012)

genre: action, science fiction

Battleship is a movie where you need to put your brain on hold. It's a movie purely made for escapism. That is all there is too it.But they manage to do it with some nice and likable characters thrown in the mix. One of them, our main character played by Taylor Kitsch even has some character development. Predictable and cliché. But interesting to see how it unfolds. Why do I think it is interesting? Well, he is an underdog that has to get on top. And who doesn't love underdogs? Granted most of his failure in life is due to lack of initiative and being immature but that is something that has to be overlooked. It's these likable characters that make you care and root for them. Now I do think it was a little strange to see the aliens not attacking or killing people directly. It was like they were programmed or told not to do so. It took away some real sense of threat and danger. And making it too convenient for the humans to overcome their predicament (at least in the close quarters combat). Still it barely ruined my enjoyment since it is made clear that the aliens are incredibly powerful and could obliterate everyone if they chose to. Which they do providing the best of what Battleship has to offer. It all comes down to these beautifully filmed and spectacular action scenes.

A lot of reviews have stated that Peter Berg has done his best Michael Bay impersonation implying Battleship is much like for example Transformers 3. To an extent that could be seen that way if not for the fact that I actually liked Battleship as opposed to completely disliking Transformers 3 (coming from someone who loves the cartoons, the toys and the first two live action movies). Are you serious? Yes, I sort of fail to see why Transformers 2 is disliked so much. It was more or less the same as the first only with a bigger nonsensical plot and even more focus on the humans. Everything was what you could expect from Bay. Anyone expecting a good and thoughtful plot, character development or smart humour should never be watching these kind of movies. Transformers 3 had a plot but action and event wise was all over the place. The one thing that made the first two Transformers so enjoyable. Proof to my point that plot in a Michael Bay movie doesn't make it a better film. However likable characters are important. I couldn't care less about what happened to blondie and Shia. And that is why Peter Berg's Battleship is far better. He knows how to make you care for the characters on the screen which intensifies the action. Bay used to know that in his earlier movies like Bad Boys and The Rock. But in Transformers 3 he kinda lost it.

One special mention I have to make is the clever way how they managed to translate the board game into a live action scene. Anyone who is able to make a board game come to live deserves some credit. Overall Battleship is flawed and ridiculous but entertaining through and through.

Review Taped (2012)

genre:thriller

Taped is a Dutch thriller that will appeal to an international audience. The fact that Hollywood will remake this movie is proof of that. And I must say that Taped managed to hook me in to an extent. Even when it does require to overlook some flaws in logic and plot. Especially the behaviour of Saar (Susan Visser) was downright annoying sometimes. She managed to bring more trouble on themselves. Not that the husband (Barry Atsma) was cool headed all the time but at least he tried to keep it together for the both of them. In the introduction it is explained why they are there and why they are filming it. We get to see the dynamics between them and it becomes apparent their marriage is in trouble. While understandable it wasn't exactly exiting or interesting to watch. It becomes too much for them and they decide to go home at once. Here is the first flaw that doesn't make sense. It was already late and dark. Would it not have been prudent to at least rest on it and go in the morning. So they are calm enough to travel together but not enough to wait and go at a more convenient time. I know anger but even I would not give in to that impulse. Of course from this moment on everything goes wrong for them. The minute the couple get into trouble the tension never lets up until the ending. The predicament they are in is something everyone can relate to. Which is what makes the flaws so tolerable. Then there are some scenes where the main characters one minute take action and the next remain passive and not follow through. These are moments where you ask yourself how you would act or respond if you were in the same situation. Which is an interesting issue that should be discussed during or preferably after having watched the film. Close to the end there was one scene which is very powerful and to me one I totally could see happening in real life. It's a scene where the wife is hysterical and husband Johan tries to calm her down.His solution is an effective one and shows that both characters care for each other very much. Giving the movie the emotional content for one extra thrilling sequence. Taped is one I can recommend.   

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Review White of the Eye (1987)

genre: thriller

White of the Eyes starts out as a very stylish and an interesting murder mystery. The opening scene alone promises to be very giallo like where we get to witness a brutal killing by some maniac. This maniac seems to be acting on a pattern and is likely to be a serial killer. Throughout the movie we are given a few red herrings but also are pointed towards the obvious suspect. But then at one point it let's the thriller/mystery for what it is and goes into the realm of the bizarre and sort of becomes a character study (although just barely). Now I am not sure if that was intended or that this movie was plagued by misfortune or simply bad writing. Because the minute it does become crazy I wasn't sure what to think. On the hand we see some brilliant acting especially by David Keith and Cathy Moriarty. But even then the viewer doesn't really to get to know them real well. Some actions of theirs go beyond logic. All sorts of questions are raised and none of them answered. The ending is cliché and goes against the style that was dominantly used and the own raised psychological questions in the film. To top it off Cathy shakes the whole nightmare off like it was no big deal. Making a strange film more strange. I do have to admit that White of the Eye is intriguing from start to finish. And that it definitely deserves to be watched. Only don't expect to fully understand it after having viewed it.  

Review The Dictator (2012): Better than Brüno but far off from Borat and Ali G!

genre: comedy

Sasha Baron Cohen is a master in playing these wacky characters that usually are far from subtle. His dictator at first doesn't seem to be that different. 

Soon, though, it becomes apparent that Admiral General Aladeen for the most part is a softie. Now, this is largely because of the lack of plot. Not that I was expecting much, but even in Ali G it was going somewhere. If there is not some story to tie events or scenes together, then at least make those scenes as interesting or funny as possible. Otherwise, what would be the point. And apart from some hilarious sequences, most jokes are on the tame side and not very clever. Here Sasha had the opportunity to dazzle us with some criticism towards all the existing regimes in the world, putting them against each other. Or simply making fun of the dictators he is supposed to be parodying. (What we see in the trailer is pretty much the extent of how outrageous it will be). All we get is a little unimaginative speech listing the rather obvious points that require no thought at all. Although he does subtly make it clear that he changed his regime into a democracy because of his new wife and still is very much the Dictator from the beginning of the film only somewhat cleverer or wiser. 

Overall not a bad watch but not entirely exciting either. I personally think this was better than Bruno but far off from Borat and Ali G Indahouse (which remains to be my personal favourite).

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Review All-American Murder (1991): Pretty good Americanesque giallo!

genre: thriller, giallo

All-American Murder is a giallo, pure and simple. (At least that is how you should approach it.) And when you realize that, then convention goes out of the door.Then suddenly certain elements and over the top characters serve a purpose. I loved it how the red herrings were used. Basically any character you meet in the movie is a suspect and the viewer is kept in the dark until the end. People who paid attention or the more advanced viewer of this genre might be able to figure out who it is much earlier on although the director makes sure to misdirect you all the way through. Some of the killings are pretty graphic and brutal. And there is a healthy build up of tension and suspense. Only one thing that might be a little off putting is the comedic or lighter approach. Like the interactions between Christopher Walken and Charlie Slatter. Their dialogue is a little strange at first. Although soon it is one of the things to look forward to. Also compared to the Italian giallo's All-American Murder lacked stylish cinematography. But as far as I could tell everything else was in tip top order. If you crave to see everything giallo this is one to check out for sure. 

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Review The Tall Man (2012)

genre: mystery, thriller

For the most part The Tall Man manages to maintain suspense and offers a few trilling moments. Nothing is what it seems and keeps you guessing which I liked. In the third act however it goes wrong. At a certain point it is obvious what has happened. Even when the whole idea is far fetched and over the top. But it doesn't stop the director from trying to trick and mislead the viewer one last time. Normally I applaud misdirection if it is satisfying. The only thing it accomplished was annoyance. Which brings me to the ending. After the decent twists, turns and thrills it feels underwhelming to say the least. My biggest issue with the conclusion is that it is pretentious. For some reason the director wants to convey a message. Nothing wrong with that if it is effective. Here it simply is too much in your face without actually explaining or presenting the issues that seem to exist. Sure in the grand scale of things it is understandable. But in the world he created on screen it is not made apparent why this message is so important to him personally and that it needs to be told. To make matters worse he ends the movie with the narrator asking the audience three times if we agree on what is said, making the message ambiguous. First Pascal Laugier bothers us with this statement only to retract it later on as if he wasn't sure himself. It always feels like a cop out when a director doesn't make a stand. If you need to address something make your point and stand behind it. If you only address a rather obvious issue without adding your personal view on it just to make a film appear more interesting than in my opinion you are a bad film maker. Especially since The Tall Man without the pretentious message would have been a really good one. Overall not a bad watch if you manage to overlook the weak ending.