Thursday, August 31, 2017

Films I've seen of late (August)

#44 Doctor Strange (2016)
Marvel is at it again with yet another superhero instalment, this time featuring neurosurgeon-turned-mystic warrior Steven Strange. Not particularly original as a superhero film but at least it doesn't take itself too seriously. Some impressive visuals, but lacklustre plot.
(6.5/10)

#45 The Wizard of Oz (1939)
An enduring and timeless classic, Oz set the benchmark for all fantasy films made ever since. The tale of Dorothy, the scarecrow, tin man and lion is told with innocence, wit and humour - all in glorious 1930s cinematic technicolor.
(9.5/10)

#46 Blind Date / A Little, a Lot, Blindly (2015)
A charming French-language film that tells the tale of two introverts living in apartments next to each other who gradually strike up a relationship by talking through their thin partition wall - and not actually meeting. Despite this slightly unrealistic premise, the two leads are enjoyable to watch as they navigate an unusual journey of romance.
(8/10)

#47 Independence Day: Resurgence (2015)
Sequel to the alien-invasion disaster movie that spawned numerous imitators. This, too, sadly is far from original - rehashing the original premise but just making everything more ludicrous. Whilst it's interesting to see what has happened to the main characters after 20 years (well, apart from Will Smith's), it just lacks any of the heart and soul of its predecessor.
(5/10)

#48 Tomorrowland: A World Beyond (2015)
George Clooney does some kid-friendly Disney that has some dark edges. Inventive and entertaining, it is nice to hear a message of hope for a change (one of the themes of the movie). There is still, however, something missing from the film - leaving it somewhat dissatisfying.
(7.5/10)

#49 The Phantom (1996)
Billy Zane is the titular hero in this comic-book caper, with plenty of nods to other adventure films like Indiana Jones and Batman. Despite feeling a bit rushed in places, and having a couple of daft stunt scenes, Zane is enjoyable as the mysterious but chivalrous hero.

#50 Keeping up with the Joneses (2016)
A glamourous, attractive couple move in to an idyllic American cul-de-sac and befriend their neighbours who suspect something's not right, soon discovering that the newcomers are actually spies. Much hilarity and mayhem ensures. Fairly predictable but enjoyable comedy.
(6/10)

#51 Event Horizon (1997)
Cult horror often described as 'The Shining' in space. Has some shortcomings and there's clearly a heavy 'Alien' influence, but it still holds up well twenty years later. Whilst a more gruesome film was originally planned and shot, the heavily edited version which ended up as the final cut is enough for me.
(7.5/10)

#52 Detroit (2017)
Police brutality and racial tension is put under the spotlight in this harrowing drama set during the '67 Detroit riots. The performances are excellent but the overlong script sadly induces a sense of boredom about an important subject.
(6.5/10)

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