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Snapped (2004)
12-22 Are the BEST!
I stopped liking it after the old narrator was replaced. Her sarcasm and wit made the show for me. Also they got rid of the good background music it was amazing, piano that drove the atmosphere, along with just a tiny bit of music that built up some dread. Also, the end credit music was changed. I can't just watch people talk and listen to that boring narrarator. The other one made me laugh! "And the prosecutor didn't think so EITHER!" I miss her and the old music!! Some of the newer stories are good so I guess I'll try to watch some before it leaves Peacock. I keep watching the older ones over and over.
The Alfred Hitchcock Hour: Crimson Witness (1965)
Worth watching for the music alone!
This episode was, for me, like watching one of the many old movies I watched as a child growing up in the 1960's. Unrealistic, but lots of fun! They were heavily censored, most in black and white, with amazing music scores, such as the one in this show. I agree that Peter Lawford's acting is not exactly A-list or Emmy/Oscar-worthy, but this is the type of pure, fluffy escapism so prevalalent during that era. This is one of my favorite episodes in this series. As learned much earlier, Hitch had a deal with his worried sponsors that did not allow his protagonists to escape justice, so as to send the message that crime doesn't pay. In this episode, I was rooting for Ernie to get his full revenge against his selfish, hateful brother (who probably had a rough time competing with his suave sibling's good looks growing up), and it seemed like he might actually succeed. Of course, we know why he would be caught. Damn those roses, it's always the little details that prevent them from getting away with what should have been a perfect crime. Still, this episode was brilliantly written and executed for a television program at that time. Pure entertainment, with no special effects, bad language, graphic violence, nudity, fast cars, CGI or gimmicks. I miss the 1960's! Rotary phones, great fashion, beautiful furniture, manners and no Big Brother! So happy that quality shows like this one live on, long after most of the actors have gone to that big stage, set or lot in the sky.
Alfred Hitchcock Presents (1955)
The absolute BEST! Addictive!
I.grew up watching this series, as well as many of the Hitchcock movies. For me, this brings me back in time when everything was simpler, more slow-paced. This is nostalgia at its most comforting. For millennials and Gen Z's, this is the most interesting history lesson on the 1950s & 1960s era imaginable, and a chance to get to know many of the finest actors of the day. The sets are pretty lame, B & W isn't for everybody, and the sound effects/music is over-the-top dramatic That's how TV really was, back when only a few network channels were available, and all had "a message from our sponsor," aka ads or commercials. Familities really did watch TV together, in the living room, so it initially brought people together, before they eventually drifted apart. Censorship was everywhere. But, anyone who is familiar with the brillianxe of Hitchcock will be able to see that each episode is like a mini-movie, containee within itself. These 25-minute episodes each pack a major, suspenseful plot-twisting punch. It's kind of like watching The Twilight Zone (another old fave!), generally minus the sci-fi. I started streaming these ad-free on Peacock, and they are even more addictive than I remember. This series won't be for everyone, but for those who love to binge-watch, this is the ultimate binge series! Thank you, Mr. Hitchcock, for providing amazing entertainment over a half-century later!
Bloodline (2015)
Warning: Extremely addictive!
I had no idea what to expect, but the reviews convinced me to watch it. As some have mentioned, it's nighttime-soapy, but infinitely more exciting. It definitely starts off slowly like other reviews have stated, but it's worth sticking with, as it's a slow burn that really gets hot once it gets going. "Dallas" was my favorite show when I was in my 20's, and it was the first show I was able to record and watch later. "Bloodline" has the characteristics I've missed from the old nighttime soaps. A ruthless patriarch, scheming siblings, a long-suffering matriarch, unseen, but known to exist wealth, a beautiful setting, conflict, crime, and many twists and turns all make this show incredibly binge-worthy. I don't hate the third season as much as so many of the other reviewers, but fervently wish that Netflix had not cut it short. It deserved a better finale. It's a beautifully filmed, quality production, and the amazing cast of actors are multi-dimensional and complex. Sissy Spacek alone made it worth trying, but the entire cast was phenomenal, as was the directing, cinematography and script. I did not like any of the characters, but each one added their own human suffering and failings, both past and present, complete with psychological scars from lifelong trauma. I found it fascinating to watch what "normal" people would do when faced with terrible, even impossible situations that don't usually occur in the average family's lives. Definitely a roller-coaster thrill ride that was tough for me to stop binging. The kind of show that makes you search for another to start watching asap! Very highly recommend, 10/10!
Held Up (1999)
They don't make em like this anymore!
Tired of looking for a movie to watch, I decided to give it a try, and was glad I did. Great little movie during times of insomnia or a rainy, cold afternoon! It had everything I like in mindless entertainment: a beautiful desert setting, a classic car road trip, bumbling, inept small town hick sheriff's deputies, characters that I can root for, a heartwarming ending, and a lot of corny, silly gags to make me laugh out loud. This is exactly what was intended, an hour and a half of pure fun and escapism. It reminded me of how I laughed so hard in the theater over movies such as "Airplane" and : Used Cars" in the 1970s. I loved this movie and can't recommend it enough to those seeking a distraction from life in 2023! I only have 10 stars but I'd give it more if I could!
Red (2008)
Riveting tale of a quiet, unsung hero's relentless quest for truth, justice and meaning in life
I didn't read the novel, so I can't make the comparison. It must be brilliant. What I can attest to is the quality of this film. Of all the revenge and vigilante movies I've seen over the decades, none were as satisfying as this one. The story, acting, directing, cinematography, beautiful setting and overall production oozed with quality, class, emotion and meaning. Done quietly, it was a slow burn that squeezed every type of feeling I could possibly muster. It didn't tug at my heartstrings, it ripped them out without anesthesia! The characters were so vividly portrayed, so real, they could have resided in any small town and easily have been your own family, neighbors or friends. This is a complex, layered tale which doesn't just show surface actions, reactions and consequences. There's a deeper backstory we learn as this unfolds, which brings cohesiveness and meaning to it all. Avery is a hero but does not see himself that way at all. He is easy to care about and to root for, and we feel his deep pain, but he also earns our respect and awe. His tormentors are easy to despise, but because of Avery, it isn't all that easy to just hate them. Starting off rather slowly, this becomes a speeding train ride with no stops until it reaches its final destination. This is one film not to be missed, for everyone old enough to comprehend it. If you enjoy bombs, massive firepower and big-budget blockbuster formula franchises, give it a try anyway. It was a surprise for me and I felt better for having seen it, in spite of, or perhaps because of, the bittersweet conclusion. I can't say that about many high-octane revenge thrillers which are more of an adrenaline rush. Cannot recommend this enough, 10/10!
Burn (2019)
Like "Splinter" but minutes the alien parasitic worms!
This is a surprisingly good, entertaining film! A fun diversion, an escape from humdrum everyday life. What interesting characters! The actors were all excellent, not just two-dimensional, but believable, with depth, and who evolved in a short span of time. The production and directing did not have a low-budget vibe in my opinion. The set, lighting, sparing use of background music and atmosphere were just right. Over the top, but not out of the realm of possibility, this story could have been ripped from the headlines. I was invested from the start and never lost interest. I highly recommend this movie to anyone who enjoys a truly unique, unpredictable thriller. I give it 9/10, it's dark, fun, and ramped up like a roller coaster ride.
Crime Story (2021)
Believe the non-hype!
I was sucked in by Richard Dreyfuss and Mira Sorvino, like everyone else. And, like everyone else, was displeased by the clickbait. All the good actors seem to have gone the way of the dinosaurs and drive-in movies, in low-budget projects so sad, they leave those of us with memories of the good old days depressed. This isn't fun, it isn't campy, it's just a boring, annoying snoozefest. Even the big names can't save this waste of film. The characters are the opposite of sympathetic and I struggled to find a reason to care about them. There's no one to root for. I didn't care how it ended. Difficult to follow and completely uninteresting. The background trumpet music reminded me of 1970s crime shows, but they were more interesting, with better stories. I rarely rate movies low, and I think the 1/10 (since 0 isn't really an option) is a first for me, but that's the best I can do for this lack of creativity and effort. Encounter of the Worst Kind!
I Melt with You (2011)
A cautionary tale & a bumpy ride...
I was drawn to this film due to the excellent cast roster and also, I love unique independent movies, rather than "formula" blockbusters. I'm a female who couldn't personally relate to the bromance aspect, but there were elements in this that I certainly could, as I suspect is true of many adults. The euphoria of the reunion was something to behold, as was the staggering quantity of drugs these four men ingested. I was wondering if many people could survive the drugs alone. The euphoria deteriorates slowly at first, then crashes painfully. The true characters of the four old friends is laid bare, naked and exposed, ugly and dark. I found the downward spiral fascinating, hard to watch but not wanting to look away, either. The masterful handling of the difficult, emotionally draining roles by these seasoned actors was impressive. Labeled as a thriller, I found that it bordered on horror, psychologically, without the blood and gore. The contrast of the beautiful rocky water and Big Sur setting with the dark, foreboding plot was brilliant. The soundtrack and dramatic music score added to the moods, upbeat at first, then full of dread. It was over the top to be sure, but made its point. The pact, signed in blood, felt like a predictive omen rather than an alcoholic, drug- fueled joke. This film was entertaining in a voyeuristic way, but should also serve as a warning to viewers. This should be viewed cautiously or skipped by those seeking easily-digested mindless entertainment or are overly sensitive and likely to feel too upset. I found this film to be excellent in every possible way, a classy, high-quality production. Although not for everybody, it deserves a higher overall rating, so I gave it 9 out of 10.
Her Little Secret (2017)
A cautionary tale that exceeded my expectations!
Definitely not a Hollywood big- budget blockbuster, which is extra incentive to watch for me. With surely a limited budget to work with, I was truly impressed with every facet of this film, a quality production throughout. The script, plot and dialog was believable, with explicit language, drug use, violence and sexuality used to create necessary realism, instead of being the main or only focus of the film. The difficult themes were, incredibly, very tastefully presented. The director stayed on course, without drifting all over or dragging the viewer through dull filler scenes. The plot, while not really new or unique, held my interest and was easy to follow without becoming confusing. I thought the acting was superb, totally believable, engaging, and professional. The actors seemed well-cast and were attractive, with appearances that were mostly excellently matched to their characters. The "crackhead" and violent criminal characters were perhaps a little too clean-cut, attractive and their teeth too white and cared for,
but did make watching them more pleasant, if slightly less authentic. But not enough to detract from my enjoyment of the movie. The soundtrack and background music added positive dramatic emphasis, rather than being jarring, annoying or used to camouflage a weak script, direction or acting. The audio was excellent, and didn't overpower the dialog or make me grab the remote to lower or raise the volume, as is the case with so many movies, whether blockbuster or low- budget B. I liked that there was a clear moral to the story. I'm streaming this for the first time in 2023, I don't know anyone connected with the production of this movie, and am not personally in need of a cautionary tale, as I have two toddler grandchildren. I watch purely for entertainment and escapism, which I feel was provided, and recommend it, 7/10 stars.
Jug Face (2013)
The Pit wants what it wants!
Most hillbilly movies have themes of cannibalism, the KKK, meth labs, rape, torture and/or murder of unsuspecting campers, or all of above, complete with decayed/ missing teeth and grating, fake accents. This film isn't just a trite cliché of standard gory slasher horror fare! The only familiar culture marker in this novel little film is the requisite incest/inbreeding, but the difference is its relevance to the rest of the story. The community can't seem to decide if it worships or despises the entity referred to only as "The Pit," which immediately made me think of a demonic abyss. These simple folk have a healthy respect for The Pit, as they ask it for favors such as healing sickness, while sacrificing members of their families to it. The Pit seems to be a combination of good and evil to the community, whose members mention neither God or a devil. The uneducated populace is drawn to the power of The Pit, and only rarely tries to resist its demands. It's a cult without an insane human leader. But the real draw is the well-developed characters, as well as the unique story, which sets this film apart. As others have stated, this is not a jump-scare movie with ghosts or excessive gore. The horror is in the effect of The Pit on the minds and actions of the characters, like a mass psychosis. At times it's kind of trippy, and I wondered if their belief in The Pit stemmed from some foraged mushrooms or manufactured moonshine. This movie is a cerebral experience, rather than mindless entertainment. I personally enjoy nearly every type of movie, but this was a cut above the norm due to its uniqueness alone. It won't be for everyone, but I felt it was worth my time. Not a rock bottom, low-budget effort with all unknown actors, yet not a Hollywood blockbuster (which don't always appeal to me!) I'd recommend giving it a try, and I thought it to be an interesting, well-made production, 8/10.
Ice House (2020)
Give it a try! It might surprise you...
I watch a lot of movies on Tubi because of their massive catalog. A lot of them are low-budget misses, but it's a worthwhile treasure hunt for movie lovers. The production wasn't top-notch, but the storyline is awesome in my opinion. I was riveted by the dialogue between Grant and Wayne, and the events which followed. It seemed to be going in a tired, worn direction, but twists and turns gave it a much more interesting one. It isn't standard Hollywood fare. It isn't going to win any awards, but it's entertaining enough. I didn't have the urge to stop it and find another movie before it was over like with so many stinkers on Tubi. It isn't for everybody, but it was worth my time. The script could have been made into a big- budget theatrical release. Good enough to watch the way it was, but could have been better. I give it a 6/10 for entertainment value.
Back Fork (2019)
Absolutely incredible, mind- blowing film!
This movie started off a little slow, and the writeup didn't offer much to convince me to watch it, but I was searching for something to see and took a chance. I love stumbling on to an experience so incredible it wouldn't let me go immediately after the ending. This film is a vortex that sucks the engaged viewer in and refuses to let go. It's a slow burn, but I suddenly found myself riveted to this story. It's gut-wrenchingly emotional. I literally felt each character's pain and torment as if it was my own, that's how amazing everyone involved with this creation performed. The low ratings and dismissals are puzzling to me. Maybe it's because I can feel empathy for these people and their individual misery, except for Cotton, who is not a sympathetic character, although the actor made him all too real. This movie is believable to its core, gripping, and emotionally draining. The script was beautifully written and executed. There is symbolism if you choose to see it, especially the scene near the end with Waylon and the fish. That scene both comforted me and gave me goosebumps. I was left shattered and hopeful, simultaneously. Hours later I'm still feeling this film, and still thinking about it as if it was real, because it could be, and all of the elements in it have been. It's a cautionary tale that I recommend with all of my heart, 100%, and if I could give it more than 10 stars, I would. I would add that I don't know anyone involved in this movie, as it's 2022 and I just watched it for the first time, and I'm so happy to have given it a chance. It might not be that way for everyone who sees it, and that's okay. But for those of us who really get it, it's an experience not to be missed, because this is not just mindless entertainment.
Keepsake (2010)
Could've been better but could've been worse...
I watch a ton of low-budget, obscure, low-rated movies, because I watch so many movies, there just aren't enough new or big-budget films, or even B-movies, around that I want to watch. I am drawn to the unusual, suspense, twists, and mysteries that involve real characters, rather than spirits, although occasionally one of those will draw me in. I especially watch a lot of abduction movies that have a plot revealing how the abductor or serial killer came to be that way. Torture porn alone bores me to tears. So the appeal of this movie was to find out if there was a plot, or if it was going to be another snoozefest. I have to say, the plot was rather unique. I won't spoil it, I'll just say that I didn't turn it off due to boredom. I wanted to find out how it would end. The actors weren't spectacular, but the two main characters, Janice & her mute abductor, did a fine job. Unlike many of these low-budget attempts, it didn't appear to be made with obsolete 1990's equipment & the actors weren't wooden or pathetically fake, like so many are in this type of film. It will remain obscure, no doubt. But for those of us who scour sites (I like Tubi best for their massive catalog) for something not yet seen, it was a good find. I found the ending to be very gratifying, not a predictable formula outcome. So I gave it 4 stars, because it isn't bad, it's not amazing, but I don't regret watching it.
The Changed (2021)
There IS something to be afraid of & it's this godawful film!
I don't always take the reviews into consideration when deciding whether to watch a movie or not, but this is one time for potential viewers to pay attention and believe them! To compare this horrendous load of garbage to "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" or "The Faculty" is totally ludicrous & an insult to those amazing, timeless classics, as well as an insult to everyone involved with them. This movie (!) is a ridiculous joke, unworthy of anyone's time. Abominable acting, dialogue, script, plot, ending...I kept hoping it would improve, but it only got worse. Waste of time, the 1-star reviews are too high, this deserves a 0, tops!
Kingpin (1996)
Stupid funny! Right up my alley!
I didn't expect all that much from this film but I was...bowled over! I grew up watching my dad bowl with his buddies in a league and bowling myself (I was never even passable!) but saw my dad win a local championship ring for the highest score. I also grew up watching SNL from the very first episode, so it was already a win/win I guess I forgot how really funny these kinds of movies could be. I just watched this for the first time and it was so entertaining! I loved the music, the bowling alleys, the 60s and 70s atmosphere, the old cars, seeing people socialize like we used to...it was all a blast! Bill Murray played a good, hilarious villain, I wanted to smack him so bad! No spoilers, just break out the snacks and watch this, and get ready to laugh your a** off!
The Baby (1973)
Only back in the 70s could such a film have been mainstream!
Baby boomer who grew up with all kinds of weirdness. The synopsis grabbed my attention like no other movie! I felt compelled to watch it, because I missed so much as a child in the 60s and 70s (my parents would have spanked me for sneaking this on the independent channel where the censors made certain nothing good was left!) not because of the theme so much, but because of the violence! I'd never even heard of this, maybe it was at the drive-in, to which I rarely was able to go. I saw this while browsing on Tubi, that's a site where a treasure trove of the campy and weird can be found! I was so scared after watching "Whatever Happened To Baby Jane" that I had nightmares for a long time, but horror was always my favorite. This movie, as others have said, is not one that will scare you (unless you're a social worker, maybe!) Back in the day, because in many ways the general attitude I grew up around was so much less 'politically correct' and more open-minded than these days, in spite of censors requiring one of an actor's feet to drape over the side of the twin bed while remaining fully clothed on tv shows, this movie would've just made me and my friends laugh. But now, because people are so afraid of being seen as twisted or perverted, this theme wouldn't fly today except as a comedy spoof perhaps, probably with inbred hillbillies involved. This film reminded me of how things have changed. I'd already been watching a lot of old movies from that era, 50s-90s, and although often the acting is less natural than today, and the old film has disintegrated into lesser quality (or started out that way) I get so much enjoyment from the nostalgia value alone, before things morphed into what they are today, after the internet and social media changed the way people think. I could imagine a teen checking with friends before watching just to make sure they won't be seen as weird, or seeing if an influencer recommended it or not. I never cared, because I didn't grow up with it, so I just dive in, the stranger the better! I'm so happy so many people here are doing that! Like a lot of 'horror' movies of the time, the plot wasn't perfect by far, it didn't really make sense in parts (although insanity doesn't make sense, that's why it isn't sane!) but if you're watching to be entertained without expecting Oscar-worthy components, grab some popcorn! For those not raised during this awesome era, it'll give you a peek into the 70s, although not the main fare to be sure. It's just plain fun, maybe a 'guilty pleasure' for some, but it's worth a look! I immediately searched for more weird old films, and found some, but so far, this one reigns supreme! Saturday matinee double-feature stuff, at its most fun! Some people really will be scraping jaws off the floor, I admit my eyes probably looked like saucers, and that's why it should be seen! No boring snoozefest with this one! I love this movie, what a great find!
The Smell of Success (2009)
The most fun I've had watching a movie in awhile!
Fun! That describes this film in a nutshell. If you're looking for a straight-laced Oscar-type film, or a big blockbuster or a franchise knowing what to expect, then this is not for you. But if you have the capacity to just enjoy a movie for the fun of it, this is it! I loved every minute, every frame. From the sepia-toned cinematography to the suicide-door Lincoln Continentals to the mid-century modern decor, this was a feast for my eyes. The comedic talents of Billy Bob Thornton and Tea' Leone were showcased brilliantly, along with the rest of the cast. I'll be laughing about Tea' Leone falling in the mud while wearing her Jackie Kennedy-like suits and hats for a long time to come. Billy Bob is hilarious when talking about his product with such a straight face. The music score is perfect to highlight the era of a much simpler time. It can also be taken as a reminder that a certain Big Chemical company has forever changed the circumstances of independent farms, as well as the industry of farming as a whole. This is also a cautionary tale that remembers simpler times on the verge of changing into complex ones. Being a baby boomer who appreciates movies like this one, this was a no-brainer win for me. I like a lot of newer movies also, that incorporate current elements into their themes. But I enjoyed the way salesmen of the Atomic Age were showcased at a time when door to door sales were common, and service was personal, rather than everything being available for purchase online without human interaction. This movie reminds us of what life was like when people stuck together and solved problems as a group, not focusing entirely on themselves as individuals. The number of manure puns could be seen as excessive by some, but I found them all funny and endearing. This movie made me laugh, while melting my heart, all because of the wonderfully human characters and their unbreakable spirits. In these days of social isolation, this kind of entertainment couldn't be more welcome for me. It won't be for everyone, but I'd recommend giving it a try before passing on it. After all, we may be isolated, but these days I'm glad we're not trapped in the times of only a few network TV stations with no movies on demand!
Arsenal (2017)
Wow some hate for this film & I loved it!
Loved the 70s vibe, and the cinematography in some places was jawdroppingly amazing! I thought it was extremely entertaining. Also, a heart-warming tale of the love between two brothers. Not sure why so many didn't like it, but maybe because I was raised in the 60s & 70s it's more my kind of movie, although I enjoy movies from all eras. I would recommend it, but apparently it isn't for everybody.
Below the Fold (2021)
The tractor pull would have been more interesting
Very slow pace, and I wanted to literally pull or drag the actors away from scenes just to get on with it. Even a huge tractor couldn't have done that fast enough! I really disliked the cinematography, because it had a harsh, videotape feel, and that's how almost all the movies are now, unless they are big-budget films. I liked the story for the most part, even if it was like so many others, but honestly, even Lifetime movies are a step up from this one. I thought the character of "David" was portrayed competently enough, but "Lisa" made me feel like I was watching a high school play, and she was the understudy. These two had zero chemistry with each other or with me as a viewer, and I quickly ceased to care about them. I really wanted to turn this movie off, but I waited to see it through to the end, since I'd waded through it that far. I wish I would have trusted my gut and just turned it off.
Fish Don't Blink (2002)
Charlie the Catfish was the star of this amazing film!
When a movie can make me laugh, cry, care about the characters so much and be sad when the movie ends, that movie gets all 10 stars and would get as many as I had to award it! I am a fish lover, so the title was intriguing, and then I saw Charlie in his tank and got hooked! Lea Thompson has always been talented, but this film was the ultimate showcase, she nailed Clara and made me love her! Not that the other cast members don't deserve accolades, all were absolutely stellar! The roadside diner, the Nautilus, looked so inviting, it's just the type of place I'd want to stop in to get a bite while passing through on a road trip. I'm not going to spoil this fun experience for anyone. This should be seen by all who are looking for a truly feel-good, pick-me-up film to lose themselves in for awhile. It's not easy sailing bthough, it's a choppy journey these people have to make in order to reach their next destination. And Charlie's always watching, and through Clara, his apparently mentally challenged best friend and the diner's only waitress, dispenses his sage advice. It's heart- warming and at times, heart-breaking to watch Clara interact with her brother, cook Jimmy, and rest of the people there. Jimmy and Clara's parents are deceased, so Jimmy and Clara inherited the Nautilus, and together they've kept it afloat. The script and dialog were terrific, and I laughed out loud in many places. It's just right, not dark or depressing nor is it so lighthearted that it's implausible. The cinematography is vivid and bright. Overall a quality production with good directing, no unnecessary dragging out of scenes. Again, the entire cast was believable and excellent. I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a fun, entertaining comedy with just enough drama and suspense to balance it out. I can't imagine that anyone would regret watching this rare gem!
Breaking In (2018)
Just okay...
Nothing new, not that exciting. No good plot twists, very predictable. I thought the 'high tech house' would be interesting, which is why I decided to watch it, but it was a phone app- controlled security system! They could put the music up loud and turn on cartoons! Wow! It could have been worse, but it could have been a whole lot better, too.
Left Behind (2014)
I'm not even religious at all...
But even though it seems to be universally hated, I was entertained, and that's all I ever ask of a film. I saw the original series in the early 2000s, and I wish they'd have remade all 3. Maybe it's my partiality to Mr. Cage, as I find him so believable, even in the worst roles/movies, which are nearly always carried and rescued by him. He literally becomes whatever character he portrays, and that's a real feat considering he's been in well over 100 movies! No offense to Kirk Cameron, who played the pilot in the original movie series and actually is very religious, but I really was moved by Nicholas Cage's anguished portrayal of the airline pilot. Even though I knew the story already, there was still a lot of suspense. A few of the supporting actors really good, and the rest were capable. It's too bad the script couldn't have been jazzed up a bit, because this story had a huge amount of potential. Maybe they weren't allowed to change it up. The books have a lot more detail, but they don't have Nicolas Cage. Regardless of the reason some people were taken and others were left behind (religion or if it had been something else, such as alien abduction) this film was still good for me as a thriller. The direction, cinematography and production weren't outstanding but not bad, either. The special effects, such as empty vehicles crashing and the widespread scattering of clothes and belongings, were effective and not over-used. I took a few stars away. One was taken for predictability, whether or not the viewer has read the books or seen the original movie(s). Another was taken because I felt the music was a little over-dramatic, and the song being played during the end credits sounded cheesy to me. The last was taken because the cinematography and overall production wasn't inspired or overwhelming, but only average to me. If you're very religious or just like movies with stuff decent suspense, it's not the worst way to spend a couple of hours. Pass if you expect a superb blockbuster of a movie with plot twists. You know what they say about opinions...! This one was mine, and I hope it helps somebody decide: to watch, or not to watch! This is definitely not Shakespeare, but during his era, options were limited, and he had no competition!
Carnage Park (2016)
Started off so great, with so much potential!
I loved the '70s vibe, the old cars and style, with the sepia cinematography that doesn't always add to a film, but was amazing the way it was used here. After awhile though, it deteriorated into nothing but 'special effects' with muffled, crazy weirdness over loudspeakers that wasn't scary, then it became too dark to see anything (maybe it would be better viewed at night.) I heard a random possible gunshot here and there, but honestly I was bored through to the end. The first half was interesting, but the second was a big fat zero. I gave stars for the cinematography and the acting, which was excellent, for the first half, but ultimately, the film was a big fat disappointment. Seemed to try too hard at being "artsy" and that left a plot that fell flat, especially since it was based on a true story. I love desert horror/ thriller movies, usually. The 'Reeker' films were much more interesting to me, because they saw the plot through to the end. I'd give a sequel a chance, just in case there was a more engaging and complete plot, but would go in with low expectations.
Death in the Desert (2015)
Awful...
Based on the true crime of Ted Binion, this movie is lame and pitiful. The dialog is terrible. I love true crime and had high hopes for this film but was sorely disappointed. I didn't care about these characters at all. A better script could have saved this debacle. I love desert movies also so I gave it a chance.