Everyone who knows me will freely admit I am the biggest movie buff they know. My answers to most questions come in the form of a movie quote, or at the very least, an analogy of how it relates to a film. In my youth, I was even accepted to graduate film school before choosing instead to “take a year off and work for a year”. Obviously, I never went back.
Cinema studies is not the direction my career took, obviously. I’ve spent the last two decades in the automotive industry, training car dealers from everything to sales, Internet, BDC, and digital marketing. As part of this, we built a software at DealerKnows that reviews the efforts of salespeople, BDC, and internet sales manager as to how well they use their CRM, and how thoroughly they manage their Internet leads. I, and the team at DealerKnows, have a trusted reputation based on our experience and knowledge to assess what is and isn’t working in a car dealership.
As part of this, we built an automotive software solution that monitors, grades, and reviews how thoroughly salespeople, BDC and Internet teams follow up with their sales opportunities. While sales training and lead management may be what I’m known for, it certainly is a far cry from my passion for film. So I decided to turn some of my review time and effort toward something that makes me very happy. Watching movies.
While I’ve always watched movies (and loved going to the theater), I wasn’t very consistent with it. I LOVE movies and my wife LOVES sitcoms, so for the last 20 years or so, we compromised and we watched sitcoms. 🙂
When New Years 2020 came around, I felt it was time that I rewarded myself with a resolution I enjoy rather than the typical one (diet, exercise, lose weight, eat better) that I hate and generally gave up on by mid-February. So I decided I would give myself an objective I might actually enjoy. I challenged myself to watch 365 movies in a year, one for each day. (Or given that it was a leap year, 366.) I ended up watching 500.
(A pandemic that kept me at home and off the road helped, and hindsight 20/20, staying at home and watching movies (usually with my wife and kids) was honestly great for my mental health).
Here are 6 things I learned from watching 500 movies.
1) Introducing your kids to the films you loved in your youth are a great way to bond.
2) There are many underwhelming films that didn’t deserve to be greenlit.
2) Documentaries are IMPORTANT.
3) Foreign films should not be overlooked.
4) South Korea makes better horror films than anyone else.
5) More family-friendly films need to be produced opposed to the gratuitously violent, foul-mouthed, sexually deviant movies that appear to be all the rage on the streaming networks. Movies are allowed to be smart and kid-friendly.
6) I wouldn’t change a second about the time I spent with my wife and boys watching movies this year.
But for a handful of exceptions, I wrote a brief review on Twitter and Letterboxd of each film.
Here are my super-short reviews of the 500 movies I watched in 2020.
1st Movie Watched in 2020:
McFarland, USA
Kevin Costner was put on this Earth to do one thing and that’s to make amazing sports movies. This true story about working class high-school farmhands in a small Texas town has a beautiful story about family, friends, and community at its heart.
★★★★
2nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Richard Jewell
Another true account finally telling the story from the other side that gives an innocent man a voice. Delicate filmmaking, which is a necessity given it is a fairly unlikable protagonist, but Sam Rockwell is superb as usual.
★★★
3rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Unknown
A relatively predictable amnesia plot device sends Liam Neeson (Liam Neesons) trying to solve a mystery we’ve all figured out already. Another on-the-run, forgettable (pun intended) action flick.
★★
4th Movie Watched in 2020:
Die Hard
For the nth time. Introduced my 14 year old to this. Had to. It’s a rite of passage and John McLane is the perfect Everyman hero, played masterfully by Bruce Willis (Bruce Willy). It had a profound impact on me when I saw it around his age as well. One of my favorite films of all time. Watch it every year, and never turn it off if I come across it. Perfect acting, incredible dialogue, impeccable action, hilarious comedic moments, top-shelf special effects, impressive stunt work and surprising emotion. This masterpiece has got it all.
★★★★★
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5th Movie Watched in 2020:
Monty Python and the Holy Grail
‘Tis but a scratch. A staple of sketch comedy. Monty Python has always been pretty hit or miss for me. The individual skits are better than the sum of its parts, which is an uneven film in the end. A few iconic lines, but needed my boys to see it.
★★★
6th Movie Watched in 2020:
Marriage Story
Bittersweet, but beautiful. Loved the long takes that let the actors shine. Divorces are pretty, and this movie doesn’t paint it to be, but unlike other movies on the topic, doesn’t position it as the end of the world either. Adam Driver has chops for days.
★★★★
7th Movie Watched in 2020:
Drunk Parents
If it weren’t for a couple shots of Salma, and a few hilarious line readings by Alec, I’d have been rather disappointed I watched this film of selfish people trying to trick . But admittedly, I did laugh out loud quite a few times. Might be the best I’ve seen Gaffigan in a film, but that’s not saying much.
★★
8th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Intruder
I want to like Dennis Quaid as an actor, but his skill level is slipping. He may not have been interesting to watch since The Rookie. An amiable couple deals with their house’s less than stable former owner/occupant. Now you can guess how the rest goes. Formulaic wannabe thriller that you can skip.
★½
9th Movie Watched in 2020:
Dim Sum Funeral
A cast with promise ruined by a lousy script, boringly predictable outcome, and TERRIBLE audio work. I mean… unbelievably remedial audio throughout. Really takes away from any the dialogue. Like high school project level filmmaking. Skip.
★
10th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Two Popes
Jonathan Pryce’s acting was spot-on. Interesting script, amazing set design/location, and wonderful relationship between the two leads. Enjoyed watching the dynamics of their relationship flourish from distaste to argumentative to hesitancy to respect to friendship. Fernando Meirelles is one of my favorite directors so I knew it’d be great.Vatican City remains on my bucket list of places to go, and this telling of a transition between popes didn’t change that.
★★★
The Two Popes Review on Twitter
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11th Movie Watched in 2020:
Problem Child
Introduced my kids to this mediocre movie from my youth. The child is wildly unlikable, even with a bad upbringing I feel he gets no wiggle room for his behavior. Nonetheless, John Ritter gave such a great performer, he is missed.
★★
Problem Child Review on Twitter
12th Movie Watched in 2020:
Shazam!
Came back to this cute superhero movie for a second viewing. Holds up as a worthy (and saccharine) edition to the DC universe. Approachable for kids. Zachary Levi was the right casting choice.
13th Movie Watched in 2020:
Bad Times at the El Royale
Originally saw this in the theater and loved it. Still holds up on second viewing and solidified my initial opinion that it’s one of my favorite films of the last few years. Cynthia Erivo is captivating in this, and the entire cast is fun to watch. That long take opening sequence was such a smart choice, and I am enamored with the stylized filming of this movie. Drew Goddard made me a major fan with this one.
★★★★½
Bad Times at the El Royale Twitter Review
14th Movie Watched in 2020:
1917
First off, I’m amazed at the scale of it. The sheer size of the set and all extras and choreography melts my head. The entire film seems to have been filmed in 3-4 takes at the most. It is a filmmaking marvel. Much like Sam Mendes said, it’s refreshing watching a movie without movie stars playing the leads. There is a really nice flow between intensity, action, and tender moments. The acting was great but I can’t get over the cinematography. You can’t take your eyes off the screen, and the very very end hit me right in the feels more than I expected it to.
★★★★½
1917 Movie Review on Twitter (part 1)
1917 Movie Review on Twitter (part 2)
1917 Movie Review on Twitter (part 3)
15th Movie Watched in 2020:
Signs
One of M. Night Shyamalan’s best films, if not the best. Mel Gibson is an immensely talented actor, as is Joaquin Phoenix. The fact he was able to tell the tale of a global invasion all through the intimate experience of one family, all while adding in his (a)typical brand of mysticism makes this a must-see love for all.
In this instance, it was being introduced to my boys when their mom wasn’t home 🙂
★★★★½
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16th Movie Watched in 2020:
Holmes and Watson
Adding this one to my list even though I turned it off somewhere around an hour into the running time. This movie is wildly unfunny. So bad it’s like they tried to make it horrible to prove a point. I am a Big fan of John C. Reilly – but these types of films make me question who approves scripts at studios. One of the worst films I’ve watched in a while.
½
Holmes and Watson Movie Review on Twitter
17th Movie Watched in 2020:
Happy Death Day 2U
The original was relatively entertaining, so was hoping this sequel was equally as fun. It got close. I do like the main characters as they run around the slasher-themed Groundhog Day’s premise. Cast makes it watchable, but writing was weaker in this one.
★★½
18th Movie Watched in 2020:
Brightburn
Had high hopes for this given its superhero kid premise coupled with a horror theme. Besides a few shock-value kills with significant blood-loss, there is little here to care about.
★★
19th Movie Watched in 2020:
School of Rock
Introducing my boys to this. I remember it being a bit better when I saw it 17 years ago. Maybe I’m too much of a grown-up, but Jack Black’s character annoyed me more with his irresponsible nature than I recall. Decent movie about the championing of kids chasing their dreams, but not as good as I had remembered.
★★½
School of Rock Movie Review on Twitter
20th Movie Watched in 2020:
Parasite
While I still feel there were a couple best pictures nominees I enjoyed more, I was more impressed with this Korean film about socio-economic plight in South Korea and a family’s conniving ways to reverse their situation. This movie is sticking in my mind longer already than all the others. Engrossing, darkly comic, and haunting. (Update: Nearly a year later, and I’ll double-down. This film was more inventive than most anything that’s come out since. Not many movies have had such an impact.)
★★★★½
Parasite Movie Review on Twitter
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21st Movie Watched in 2020:
Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls
The first one was a classic, so let my boys see the sequel, regardless how terrible it is. Same bits and brands of physical humor. Not enough to make you laugh out loud more than once or twice.
★½
22nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Teen Titans Go! To the Movies
Kids cartoon grown up into a feature that tries a little too hard to be sardonic. Has a few good laughs for adults. Decent enough for young ones.
★★
23rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Death Becomes Her
Always liked this movie more than maybe it deserves. Cast worked great together (not that you can go wrong with Meryl). At the time, the effects were top notch, and it’s just the right amount of macabre comedy.
★★★½
24th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Irishman
Scorsese can’t go wrong, and this cast was great. Story seemed a bit meandering, obviously, but still engrossing throughout the running time. In my opinion, Pesci was the glue that held this movie together. Some masterful camera work and the de-aging didn’t bother me at all. Just could have used some more editing.
★★★★
The Irishman Movie Review on Twitter
25th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Laundromat
Never knew someone could make a movie interesting enough to display the inherent need of campaign finance reform, but here we are. Meryl steals the film as only she can, even though the different sequences don’t fit together as tightly as the director likely intended.
★★★
The Laundromat Movie Review on Twitter
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26th Movie Watched in 2020:
Empire of the Sun
Still a tremendous film. Proving to my son how Christian Bale has always been a phenomenal actor and Steven Spielberg is a filmmaking icon. Didn’t have the emotional depth of some of his later work, but a fine piece of cinema nonetheless.
★★★★
Empire of the Sun Movie Review on Twitter
27th Movie Watched in 2020:
Gemini Man
Somewhat surprised this is an Ang Lee film as I find him a real auteur. This movie, however, is exactly what you expect it to be, with no surprises. De-aging on Will Smith works well in some scenes and poor in others. A few decent action sequences, but not enough to want to see a sequel.
★★
Gemini Man Movie Review on Twitter
28th Movie Watched in 2020:
Zombieland: Double Tap
Worthy sequel. Similar stylized action comedy bits. The characters may have been a bit formulaic with little growth, but still an enjoyable family to watch. Murray in the credits was gold.
★★★
Zombieland: Double Tap Movie Review on Twitter
29th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Addams Family
My boys had already seen the live action movies which are great, (as well as the live stage musical), so we took a shot on the new 2019 animated movie. Not half bad. A few good bits. Decent voice work but nothing spectacular.
★★½
The Addams Family Movie Review on Twitter
30th Movie Watched in 2020:
Hellboy (2019)
I’d watch David K Harbour read the phone book (if those still existed) but the make-up does take away from how good he can be as an actor. Nonetheless, worthy remake, decent comic book story, and all involved did the character justice. Faithful enough.
★★★
Hellboy Movie Review on Twitter
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31st Movie Watched in 2020:
Uncle Buck
I remember seeing this a couple times in the theater when I was just 13 or so. Loved it then and loved it now. Reminds me how much of a loss John Candy’s death was, not just to comedy, but to film. Few actors had that much heart.
★★★★
Uncle Buck Movie Review on Twitter
32nd Movie Watched in 2020:
What About Bob?
Bill was in full-on Murray mode for this, and I tend to think it’s one of his best roles of his career. Dreyfus plays off him well and the neuroses are strong in this one.
★★★½
What About Bob? Movie Review on Twitter
33rd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Gentlemen
Guy Ritchie’s best film since Snatch. Excellent machismo acting all around. While I want to say Colin Farrell steals it, every single player shines bright. Twists, turns, and quality tough-guy dialogue. A must see.
★★★★
The Gentlemen Movie Review on Twitter
34th Movie Watched in 2020:
Ford v Ferrari
Solid story, and stellar race sequences. Great bio about the history of two incredible vehicle brands going at it where the rubber meets the road. In my opinion, the Academy got it wrong not including Christian Bale in as Best Supporting Actor vs Pacino’s role in The Irishman.
★★★½
Ford v Ferrari Movie Review on Twitter
35th Movie Watched in 2020:
Search Party
A throw-away knock-off strongly attempting to duplicate the Hangover franchise. TJ Miller has a knack for playing the most annoying assbag in every movie. Even if that’s not the role, his character becomes somehow is. Hard pass.
★½
Search Party Movie Review on Twitter
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36th Movie Watched in 2020:
Harriet
For such an incredible life, they made this movie more intimate than I would have expected. A few of the shots and edits were a bit “after-school special” but thankfully Cynthia Erivo saved it and brought with it the gravitas it deserved.
★★★
Harriet Movie Review on Twitter
37th Movie Watched in 2020:
Groundhog Day
Much like everyone else, I must have seen this a couple dozen times, but my boys hadn’t so this was what we watched for movie night. While I used to find it funny, now as a middle aged man who sees people that have regrets they missed their chance to be with the right person, I don’t find it near as funny as endearing, hopeful, and sweet.
★★★★
Groundhog Day Movie Review on Twitter
38th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Curse of La Llorona
My wife loves horror movies. I don’t mind them, but they’re never my first choice. They typically don’t scare me, or make me jump, but they do make me angry. Especially when the victims (parents and kids in this case) act so irrationally idiotic they almost deserve being terrified. While I like Linda Cardellini as an actress, and wanted the family to live, there was far too much that made me frustrated. This is one of those movies. Better than the average but not as good as I’d hoped.
★★½
The Curse of La Llorona Movie Review on Twitter
39th Movie Watched in 2020:
Surf’s Up
Seriously, the only thing Shia Lebeouf has ever been in where he wasn’t considerably annoying. (So far… my opinion changes at a later movie.) Graphics are acceptable at best and Jeff Bridges’ voice work is phoned in. Not a necessity to watch.
★★
Surfs Up Movie Review on Twitter
40th Movie Watched in 2020:
Playing with Fire
Sometimes, even if the movie isn’t good, I enjoy it because it means well. It’s heart is in the right place throughout. I liked all the main actors in the film, and while they aren’t winning awards, they’re in the movie for the right reasons. Mo one delivers great performances (nor is the directing top shelf), but they seemed friendly and meant well. Good clean family fun, with no major issues to root against (beyond plausibility).
★★★
Playing with Fire Movie Review on Twitter
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41st Movie Watched in 2020:
Real Steel
This is a formulaic, yet underrated sports movie. It’s Over the Top but with robot boxing instead of arm wrestling. Estranged father wrongly considered a deadbeat dad whose secretly loving and talented wins the heart of his overly confident preteen son through competitive sport. Better graphics and CGI than given credit for. Sure, it’s very predictable with hints of every underdog boxing movie (namely the original Rocky), but still entertaining and warm-hearted.
★★★
Real Steel Movie Review on Twitter
42nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Mars Needs Moms
I thought this was just a weirdly animated kids movie until I saw the end credits to learn this is another Zemeckis motion capture movie. The child protagonist is quite annoying which makes much of this film tedious to watch.
★½
Mars Needs Moms Movie Review on Twitter
43rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Doctor Sleep
This sequel to The Shining had zero scares in it, but is a considerably better, more cohesive story than the original. I’m always a fan of Ewan McGregor and liked how they revisited the old film while expanding on the power of “shining”. A considerably more interesting universe after this movie.
★★★
Doctor Sleep Movie Review on Twitter
44th Movie Watched in 2020:
Sonic the Hedgehog
Of all films based on video games, I’m not shy to say this has been my favorite. (Sorry, Mortal Kombat and Detective Pikachu). James Marsden was the affable partner to the antic Sonic, without making either unlikable. Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik brought the comedy to a movie that held a fast enough pace to keep the whole family engaged. Good clean fun family movie. (This also happens to be the last movie I have seen in a movie theater)
★★★
Sonic the Hedgehog Movie Review on Twitter
45th Movie Watched in 2020:
Alita: Battle Angel
A sci-fi spectacle overstuffed w: plans for its mythos to be intriguing but it rings self-indulgent and hollow. Film ends with no final confrontation, but instead a cliffhanger hoping for a sequel. You can’t spend all film talking about one villain and never face off against the villain, simply because you’re so arrogant you expect it to be a success and deserve a sequel. Entertaining but drawn out.
★★
Alita Battle Angel Movie Review on Twitter
46th Movie Watched in 2020:
Miracle
I still consider this the best ice hockey movie ever made. (You’re overrated, Slap Shot). And it’s not the quality filmmaking that makes it work, but Kurt Russell. His turn as Herb Brooks is the best acting of his career, and that intensity he brings carries the film to an emotional denouement when we already know the ending.
★★★★
Miracle Movie Review on Twitter
47th Movie Watched in 2020:
John Wick
I’ve seen this multiple times, but still love the universe it created. The mythology with the gold coins, hotel sanctuary, professional courtesies among criminals. Stunt work and story come together in one of the top action movies of the last decade. With each new Wick movie, Keanu proves he is a great match for the role. Classic, man against the odds shoot ‘em up.
★★★★½
John Wick Movie Review on Twitter
48th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Mighty Ducks
Emilio!!! Estevez delivers some uninspired blandness to match the clumsiness of the script in this hockey version of the Bad News Bears. No redeeming qualities other than some subtle acting by Joshua Jackson. With that said, there is never a good reason to hate an underdog sports movie.
★★
The Mighty Ducks Movie Review on Twitter
49th Movie Watched in 2020:
Gremlins
Nothing like a “cute critter turned into evil mischievous little murderers on Christmas time” movie to get my kids to do their homework.
Remember liking it more as a kid, as I didn’t notice how irresponsible Billy and his family was then.
★★½
Gremlins Movie Review on Twitter
50th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Truman Show
Every time I see this movie, it moves higher up my list of favorites. I’m more and more in awe of the collective sum of the film when I watch it. While the unique concept and Peter Weir’s direction drive this film, as well as a nimble turn by Jim Carrey and supporting cast, it is the phenomenal musical score that is the movie’s secret weapon. The rare ability for a film to be big budget, artsy, smart, and Hollywood-friendly. A treat of a five-star film.
★★★★★
The Truman Show Movie Review on Twitter
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51st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Mask
Only Jim Carrey could play this role. Super cheesy with a very weak set-up and no backstory, but at the time, the effects were decent. Nonetheless, a cute movie for older kids. Comedy holds up, but wasn’t a necessary rewatch.
★★★
The Mask Movie Review on Twitter
52nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Kindergarten Cop
Ah yes, the 1990 classic where Arnold Schwarzenegger plays an undercover cop as a kindergarten teacher. Pretty standard kids fare with a stilted pace yet some very memorable lines. The main cast plays to their strengths but the kids steal the show.
★★★
Kindergarten Cop Movie Review on Twitter
53rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Hotel Artemis
Knew nothing about this going in and made it better. Unique story with an off-the-wall cast of quality stars made this gritty, one-location crime movie fly by. Predictable but interesting characters keep this surprisingly watchable. Dave Bautista showed he has some acting chops with his muscles. Sterling K Brown is someone easy to root for regardless of role. And Jodie Foster reminds you how great she is in almost any role.
★★½
Hotel Artemis Movie Review on Twitter
54th Movie Watched in 2020:
D2: The Mighty Ducks
The sequel to the underdog kids hockey movie is back and they’re taking on international teams. My unpopular opinion – this is a better movie than it’s predecessor. Just better personalities among the cast of characters. Not only Emilio not as annoying or introspective as he was in the first movie, but they focused as much on the kids as the adults, thankfully.
★★★
D2 Mighty Ducks Movie Review on Twitter
55th Movie Watched in 2020:
Isn’t It Romantic
My wife teases me constantly saying I shouldn’t like romantic comedies as a man. I don’t care. I like them. And this was better than I expected. It is in the same vein as 13 Going On 30 so if you liked that movie concept, you’ll enjoy this. Adam Devine is goofy fun like usual. And I will say this is the least irksome I’ve found Rebel Wilson. Cute movie.
★★★
56th Movie Watched in 2020:
Knives Out
I really enjoyed this movie when I first saw it in the theater, but it took watching it again to realize I love it. Director did a great job with his close-up shots and angles when filming. Going off steady cam for just one scene to create the feeling of mayhem and instability was so smart. The entire cast was great and writing is wonderful, but it is Daniel Craig’s turn as super sleuth Benoit Blanc that seals it. He and his character need a franchise. I’d watch him solve interesting cases with other large casts forever.
★★★★½
Knives Out Movie Review on Twitter
57th Movie Watched in 2020:
D3: The Mighty Ducks
The 3rd and final film in the Mighty Ducks canon shows why Emilio Estevez, Jonathan Jackson and cast needn’t not continue on with the franchise. Formulaic and turned previously likable characters unlikable. Very little time spent on ice or hockey, with no believable character arc spent on reflection or redemption. Is this too much to ask of a kid’s movie? Probably.
★½
D3 The Mighty Ducks Movie Review on Twitter
58th Movie Watched in 2020:
21 Bridges
Uptempo crime saga plays out over the course of one night and keeps a steady pace to the end. A lot of shoot ‘em up style action mixing in with decent acting thanks to another quality turn by Chadwick Boseman. Predictable but entertaining flick that doesn’t take the path you expect it to with the initial concept and set-up.
★★★
21 Bridges Movie Review on Twitter
59th Movie Watched in 2020:
Spies in Disguise
A better animated family flick than I expected. Really solid work voice by Will Smith, Ben Mendelssohn, and Tom Holland. Tried to tug heart strings in the traditional cartoon ways, and while not ringing hollow, didn’t pack a punch. Still delivers a few really good laughs.
★★★
Spies in Disguise Movie Review on Twitter
60th Movie Watched in 2020:
Bombshell
This true story of the sexual harassment that occurred at Fox News over the years is a cautionary tale of power urging good people to turn a blind eye and keep quiet for the sake of tribalism is frustratingly relevant.
The cast is a virtual who’s who of powerful actresses taking on important roles that spotlight the inequalities of gender in the workplace. Margot Robbie, and Nicole Kidman were excellent, but Theron stole it as Megan Kelly. How Charlize didn’t get a nom for her portrayal, I’ll never know. Required viewing for men and women.
★★★★
Bombshell Movie Review on Twitter
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61st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Day After Tomorrow
Decent disaster flick doing its best to be socially relevant slightly before climate change was a trending topic. Cast is interchangeable in their roles. Even given the stakes, the gravity of the outcome never hits home.
★★
The Day After Tomorrow Movie Review on Twitter
62nd Movie Watched in 2020:
High Noon
Almost 70 years old, this black and white western still keeps pace throughout, primarily because of a great score throughout that amplifies the impending confrontation. Gary Cooper deftly plays the brave, weary Marshall (in a very realistic, stoic manner) defending a town that doesn’t deserve him from 4 hoods arriving on a train. Some good cinematography and direction makes the straight-forward film breeze by.
★★★
63rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Shrek
This is a top 10 animated movie for me. Sacrilege, you say? Graphics may not be mind-blowing, but the screenplay’s subversive (hilarious) take on the knight-in-shining-armor and damsel-in-distress wins laughs throughout. Sight gags are brilliantly placed as well. You catch something new each time you watch it. Perfect line readings by a brilliant ensemble (headlined by Eddie and Mike) make this a classic.
★★★★½
64th Movie Watched in 2020:
Sky High
I’m sure this movie likely got bad reviews, but it’s still a watchable superhero movie. Sure it’s conventional and undistinguishable, and it’s characters could have been played by anyone, but it doesn’t need to be dismissed. Completely watchable kids movie.
★★
Sky High Movie Review on Twitter
65th Movie Watched in 2020:
Spenser Confidential
This movie’s heart is in the right place, but it doesn’t have enough heart. Peter Berg and Mark Wahlberg are a good team and even if this doesn’t hit the usual high marks the duo achieves, i’ll watch anything and everything they make together. They get the best out of one another. In this instance, though, they wasted a spirited supporting cast, including Iliza Shlesinger – who deserves a spin-off of this character – in a garden variety dirty cop flick. Thankfully, Berg’s editing was less erratic that his last few efforts, so it made the movie more consumable which fit the pace well. Still worth the watch.
Spenser Confidential Movie Review on Twitter
66th Movie Watched in 2020:
Stargate
I remember LOVING this when it came out. Boy, am I seeing it through a different lens now. One note characters and poorly assembled story with little motivation. Nothing worth biting into here. I thought this had more meaning when I first saw it. Like it was a mythological tale about our creation. I realize now I was reading too much into it. It’s not that deep. The movie is nothing more than a campy, reaching sci-fi vehicle.
★★
Stargate Movie Review on Twitter
67th Movie Watched in 2020:
Fighting With My Family
Wrestling isn’t my thing, and that’s the central concept of this true story, but the familial relations at least kept me tuning in. Admirable job from the actors, and a respectable turn from Vince Vaughn. He was funny without being ingratiating, and Florence Pugh in the lead role was fresh. Okay in a pinch but nothing to write home about.
★★
Fighting With My Family Movie Review on Twitter
68th Movie Watched in 2020:
San Andreas
You don’t watch this to see smoldering actors and their overdramatic close-ups. You watch for destruction, and while so much is over the top, the visual effects are great. The Rock defies all laws of physics to save his family during a catastrophic earthquake. More cracks in the script than the crust. My 8 year old described it best- “this movie is only close calls”.
★★
San Andreas Movie Review on Twitter
69th Movie Watched in 2020:
Osmosis Jones
This only gets 2 stars because of how relevant it is in these confounding COVID-19 times. This half live action/half animated 2001 movie tells the tale of a deadly virus that infects a sloppy Bill Murray (think unhealthy USA). However, the body of Bill is run by an obtuse leader (mayor phlegm) who cares only about an upcoming election and spinning the narrative that the virus is nothing more than a simple cold or flu. Without leadership, it is up to the citizens of Bill (other antibodies and cells) to try to stop the infection. Analogies abound in this unwell film, but so apropos given our current circumstances.
★★
Osmosis Jones Movie Review on Twitter
70th Movie Watched in 2020:
Ma
In this frustrating thriller, Octavia Spencer attempts to summon a bit of Kathy Bates’ Annie Wilkes from the superior film Misery, but with none of the nuance. The woman known as Ma never strikes fear in the viewer, and barely in the teenyboppers she stalks. The tile character was written unhinged from the start, and worst of all, gave us no victims to care for.
★★
Ma Movie Review on Twitter
71st Movie Watched in 2020:
2012
Keeping with our disaster movie theme during the COVID-19 crisis, this is Roland Emmerich’s denouement to the genre. Takes down much of the Earth with little regret (and average quality effects). While I remember the buzz about date of 12-21-2012 and the end of the Mayan calendar, this film never brought with it the mythos that prediction deserved. The devastation of our planet is so significant, it separates the viewer from the gravity of the situation. In the end, this movie never brought with it a fear factor, just the wow. And even the “wow” isn’t very exciting.
★★
2012 Movie Review on Twitter
72nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Damien: Omen II
While the original film had a creepiness to it, this schlocky sequel didn’t. Hadn’t seen this in over 30 years… it wasn’t scary then and still isn’t. Horror movies normally have more intriguing antagonists than protagonists (and the devil being the bad guy should be no exception, but here both suck.
★
Damien Omen II Movie Review on Twitter
73rd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Old Man & the Gun
In this saccharine-sweet true story of a non-violent, (now elderly) career bank robber played confidently by Robert Redford, the story meanders, but the charm is steady. Redford is gentlemanly and paced in this throwback to the days of good bad guys.
★★★½
The Old Man & the Gun Movie Review on Twitter
74th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Impossible
The harrowing tale of one family’s experience during the 2004 southeast Asian tsunami that hit Thailand gets top-shelf cinematic treatment. Naomi Watts earned every bit of her Oscar nom and Tom Holland was a revelation as a child actor. Effects were realistic and heartstrings are tugged just the right ways.
★★★★
The Impossible Movie Review on Twitter
75th Movie Watched in 2020:
DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story
This juvenile comedy about a dodgeball tournament and battling neighborhood gyms have a few chuckles, but nothing to make it a must-see. Vince Vaughn relies too heavily on his typical overconfident snark, but it’s Ben Stiller who brings the humor both physically and verbally.
★★½
DodgeBall Movie Review on Twitter
76th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Count of Monte Cristo
I’ve always felt the Count of Monte Cristo is one of the truly great stories every written. No movie can capture Dumas’ novel of love, betrayal, jealousy, revenge and redemption, but this adaptation is faithful and admirable. Some poor editing choices with the transitions, and left much on the cutting room floor obviously to ensure it isn’t a bloated film, but they got good work from the cast. Knowing the true motivations of the characters from the book let me read into their performances that likely allow me to accept the film more. I’ll always find this yarn an entertaining adventure with a purely simple story at its center that should captivate audiences and stand the test of time.
★★★½
The Count of Monte Cristo Movie Review on Twitter
77th Movie Watched in 2020:
Big Trouble in Little China
John Carpenter’s genre-busting well-made 80’s B-movie (intentionally campy with Kurt Russell as the anti-hero) is schlocky fun for all the right reasons: Sarcastic comedy, Kung-fu, sorcery, and adventure. Dumb, clean fun.
★★★
Big Trouble in Little China Movie Review on Twitter
78th Movie Watched in 2020:
Mission: Impossible
Great start to this super spy franchise. Admittedly, on repeated viewings, it’s a touch slower than the later films in the canon. Regardless, Cruise as Hunt has all the chaotic energy to play this role for the next 50 years. Great set-up, albeit a touch convoluted for my teenager, but the pace was just enough to keep his interest.
★★★½
Mission Impossible Movie Review on Twitter
79th Movie Watched in 2020:
Anna
Call me a sucker for a good choreographed gun ballet and hand-to-hand combat fight scene. Luc Besson kept me entertained with the time-jumping criss-crosses and agent-double-agent-triple-agent symphony of intrigue. Suspend belief that a way-too-easy-on-the-eyes 6ft 95lb supermodel is a certified bad-ass and watch this actioner with an open mind. I had low expectations going in, the scenery kept me watching, and the rest kept me engaged.
★★★½
Anna Movie Review on Twitter
80th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Waterboy
The comedy is as infantile as the dim-witted Waterboy-turner-college-football-star. Hits and gags come rapid fire in the bayou, and this juvenile Adam Sandler classic still somehow appeases the masses with its low brow humor.
★★★
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81st Movie Watched in 2020:
Mission: Impossible II
The franchise begins ramping up the death defying stunts but the film is stunted by a less-than-worthy villain. Tom Cruise is the more than confident Ethan Hunt. Thandie Newton plays nothing more than eye candy staring off into the distance. This is the low point in the series.
★★
Mission Impossible II Movie Review on Twitter
82nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Mission: Impossible III
I’ve always believed this to be the best in the M:I canon. JJ Abrams’ frenetic editing and a great script upped the stakes by bringing personal relationships to the center stage over saving the world. More interesting side characters and even more realistic action sequences. Phillip Seymour Hoffman was the best villain in the series IMO, and he was genuinely fearsome in the role. Cruise always brings the action but this is the first of the M:I films where he truly brought the acting.
★★★★
Mission Impossible III Movie Review on Twitter
83rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol
Brad Bird directs Cruise and company to new death-defying heights as IMF becomes disavowed. Foreign locales are simply set pieces for our secret agent heroes to risk life and limb trying to thwart a boring bad guy from starting nuclear war. All action, little heart, but a good reveal at the end keeps it close to home.
★★★½
Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol Movie Review on Twitter
84th Movie Watched in 2020:
Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation
The M:I canon hits its stride in this 5th film, finally assembling the perfect IMF team Ethan Hunt needs to take on the ultimate baddies, the Syndicate. Smart story does a time jump that puts Cruise as enemy #1 of the government but still moving forward at all costs. This film finally shows Hunt isn’t infallible or perfect, adding to the gambit.
★★★½
Mission Impossible Rogue Nation Movie Review on Twitter
85th Movie Watched in 2020:
Mission: Impossible – Fallout
If they wanted to put a bow of this great super agent franchise, they couldn’t have done better than Fallout. Above and beyond the call-backs, over-the-top action sequences, and interwoven story lines/characters from past films, it did what made #3 so perfect… it made things personal for our heroes. A worthy ending (if they chose it to be) where trickery, relationships, hand-to-hand combat, car chases, and gun play all come together against a nasty group of bad guys.
★★★★
Mission Impossible Fallout Movie Review on Twitter
86th Movie Watched in 2020:
K-9
This spiritless buddy cop film between a reckless (worthless) narcotics detective and a police dog had the promise of a feel-good film yet delivers on none of it. Something to be said that the German Shepard has more charisma than Jim Belushi.
★
K-9 Movie Review on Twitter
87th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Rundown
Peter Berg directs Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson in what was his first leading man role. (No, the Scorpion King wasn’t leading man worthy). Some good action sequences and solid editing coupled with a few funny scenes due to Sean William Scott keeps this film propped up. Good opening scene too sets the stage for the Rock’s physical dominance. Cheesy flick, but still watchable.
★★½
The Rundown Movie Review on Twitter
88th Movie Watched in 2020:
Blood Father
Even w/ a stretch of a storyline, Mel Gibson continues to be electric as an actor. I’ll watch him in anything. His weathered face ideal for these lived in roles of someone regretting actions of the past, as art imitates life. He’s an actor still worth rooting for and I’d watch him read the phone book. Decent side players, but rather unrealistic script hampers Mel’s consistently great acting.
★★
Blood Father Movie Review on Twitter
89th Movie Watched in 2020:
Mr. Magoo
One of those live-action films from source material that simply didn’t need to be made. Dreadfully unfunny w/ a shoddy script, elementary directing, and cartoonish acting. Even Leslie Nielsen’s natural charm can’t raise this above one star.
★
Mr. Magoo Movie Review on Twitter
90th Movie Watched in 2020:
Yesterday
Let me start off by saying I’m a Richard Curtis superfan and believe anything he touches is 24k gold. Danny Boyle is an incredible director also, so this was sure to be amazing and it is. Even on this, my third time viewing, the film keeps getting better. Beautiful concept and execution, with charming performances by Himesh Patel and Lilly James. This love letter to The Beatles (and love itself) is glorious.
★★★★
Yesterday Movie Review on Twitter
91st Movie Watched in 2020:
Onward
While the first half hour underwhelms by leaning too heavily on typical Disney tropes, this animated family adventure fairy tale picks up steam and ends with a lot of heart. Could have explored the magical realm they created for us more, and given the voice actors a few more touching moments early on, but the film still finds a way to tug the heartstrings.
★★★½
Onward Movie Review on Twitter
92nd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Sound of Music
This Rodgers and Hammerstein musical holds up because of the incredible Julie Andrews and some of the best songs in any adaptation from stage to screen. Too much musical repetition makes the running time drag but still a classic.
★★★½
The Sound of Music Movie Review on Twitter
93rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Frozen II
This bland follow-up to its juggernaut predecessor seems both rushed because of lazy dialogue and overstuffed with less than catchy musical numbers. Storyline answers questions left open but doesn’t prevent this animated film from lacking.
★★
Frozen II Movie Review on Twitter
94th Movie Watched in 2020:
Climax
My face was contorted with horror, tension, and worry for the entire second half of this drug-induced, dance-fueled, uniquely-disturbing French film. It is overwhelmingly unsettling throughout, yet frighteningly hypnotic. Crazy good direction.
★★★½
Climax Movie Review on Twitter
95th Movie Watched in 2020:
Fast and The Furious Presents: Hobbs and Shaw
Okay, okay, okay… sometimes I just need a little high-octane drivel with ‘roid-fueled arrogance and weight-room rage splashed across the screen. It is like a high-budget, low-concept Tango and Cash. The star power of the four main actors is enough to keep your attention, and the witty banter and quick insults keeps it fun and light. However, the whole action flick is homey and ridiculous. Watch it and then you’ll forget you watched it two days later. A money grabber that stimulates the senses while numbing the brain. A middle-of-the-road, over-the-top action film with two body-building 50-somethings team up instead of duking it out.
★½
96th Movie Watched in 2020:
Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made
I’m not saying the title character is the most unlikeable person to ever be on film, but Voldemort has more redeeming qualities than this 5th grader. No remorse, selfish, annoying, little regard for authority. The four main adults in this do a respectable job, but it’s easy to look likable when the main character is the spawn of the Problem Child kid and Culkin in The Good Son.
Avoid this kids movie at all cost.
★
Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made Movie Review on Twitter
97th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Adventures of Tintin
Spielberg outdid himself with this stunningly beautiful computer-animated tale. Colorful and lifelike, entertaining throughout; the entire film is a visual feat. Shocked I’d never watched this before as the story & action impress. Even with predictability built in, you want to see what’s next.
★★★½
The Adventures of Tintin Movie Review on Twitter
98th Movie Watched in 2020:
¡Three Amigos!
El Guapo is the cherry on top of this light-hearted, 80’s comedy. Starring 3 of my favorite comedy icons, they went for family-friendly silliness rather than a full-on farce and it worked. Playfulness among the cast who weren’t taking themselves too seriously. A classic from my youth whose humor holds up. Admittedly, I’m likely giving it a full extra star just because how much i remember loving it as a kid, but I don’t care. If they filmed a sequel with Martin, Short, and Chase, I’d still be first in line to see it.
★★★½
Three Amigos Movie Review on Twitter
99th Movie Watched in 2020:
Into the Grizzly Maze
What a waste of a good main and supporting cast with this uninspired script and second rate special effects. I don’t blame any of the actors, and lay this squarely on the director, who was obviously out of his depth. Watchable at best.
★½
Into the Grizzle Maze Movie Review on Twitter
100th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Best of Enemies
A feel-good true story about desegregation of schools in the south made possible by the unlikely pairing of a civil rights activist and a Klan member w/ a conscience. Sam Rockwell (easily one of the great, yet underrated actors of my generation) is amazing, as is an engrossing turn by Taraji P Henson as his equal on the other side is the aisle. Both actors elevate the film beyond the standard after-school-special treatment that most films about race seem to receive. I enjoyed this thoroughly, even if it dragged in a few scenes.
★★★½
The Best of Enemies Movie Review on Twitter
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101st Movie Watched in 2020:
21 Jump Street
While not a faithful adaptation of the TV show, Lord and Miller knocked this out of the park with the comedy. Tatum and Hill playing against type in their undercover roles bring energy, delivery, and perfectly paced inane humor. Great supporting cast as well make this a fun and funny ride.
★★★½
21 Jump Street Movie Review on Twitter
102nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
I always felt Chris Columbus kicked off this franchise in a near perfect way. Sure, my love of this first film is an unpopular opinion in many circles, but it’s kid friendly and approachable by all ages. Almost no films are capable of matching the source material novels they sprung from, but this knows well enough to set the stage without overdoing it. Picturesque set design and impeccable casting for the future weaves a magical beginning. Wonderful storytelling put on celluloid.
★★★★
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone Movie Review on Twitter
103rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Selfie From Hell
Selfie from Hell? More like movie from hell. This horror flick plays out more like a student production with ill-equipped actors and a disjointed script that offers no continuity in plot, no logical reasoning for the characters, and an outcome that offers no logical reasoning in why some things happen and some don’t. I wasted my time on this one.
½
Selfie from Hell Movie review on Twitter
104th Movie Watched in 2020:
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
The 2nd film in JK Rowling’s canon saw Harry Potter solidifying his base and beginning to understand his life’s charge. Definitely not as intriguing as the 1st, but they begin to raise the stakes with child danger. Adult characters thankfully start to become more integral in the battle between He Who Must Not Be Named and The Boy Who Lived. You can start to see the framework and patterns in the story – and I think that did Chris Columbus a bit of a disservice. Nonetheless, a good effort.
★★★
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets Movie Review on Twitter
105th Movie Watched in 2020:
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
The attention to detail in the filmmaking speeds this 3rd Harry Potter film along. Alfonso Cuaron takes the helm and wisely takes a departure from the formula of the first two in order to build more interpersonal intrigue. Character development grows without the need for a boss battle against a big baddie In the end. This is the one where can see the cast truly come together and start leading with heart.
★★★½
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban Movie Review on Twitter
106th Movie Watched in 2020:
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Wrapped around a dangerous magic tournament, the Harry Potter franchise hits it’s stride in this fourth movie. Interpersonal dynamics flourish and the kids start turning into to adults. Voldemort returns and deaths strike. One of my favorite Potter films.
★★★★
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire Movie Review on Twitter
107th Movie Watched in 2020:
Veronica
This Spanish-language supposed true story details the paranormal happenings to a family after calling a demon on a ouija board through an occult incantation. Realistic (yet slightly frustrating) performances by all kids stoke the creepy atmosphere. In the end, though, this movie breaks no new ground in the horror genre, delivering few scares at best. Good acting, decent directing, but some mildly creepy visuals actually pull you out of seems that should be more frightening.
★★
Veronica Movie Review on Twitter
108th Movie Watched in 2020:
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
The teenage wizards are taking their fight to the dark lord and death eaters in this 5th installment. Lines are drawn and allegiances become clearer, especially in the second viewing now of this film. Introducing the most unlikeable character (Dolores Umbridge) in the franchise turned this into a more tedious film to watch.
★★½
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix Movie Review on Twitter
109th Movie Watched in 2020:
It: Chapter Two
The child actors from the last film are the saving grace for this sequel. Each scene they’re in reminds you how great they are together. It puts their older selves at a disadvantage. While the casting of their grown-up versions is admirable, it took a while to begin caring at all about the adults. They’re good actors but don’t have that camaraderie or electricity the kids do.
While Bill Hader is great in the comic relief role, it isn’t the jokes, but the clownish (pun intended) horror sequences and effects that take the viewer out of the creepy atmosphere and into a campy, silly send-up of a no-longer scary movie. Moreover, it lasts far too long with too many unnecessary sequences of perceived terror that are all for freak, but no fright.
★★
It: Chapter Two Movie Review on Twitter
110th Movie Watched in 2020:
A LEGO Brickumentary
Considering how creative the toy brand has been in its existence, the documentary is pretty basic and uninventive. Sadly, it plays like a poorly veiled sales pitch disguised as a history lesson. Barely interesting enough to entertain the viewer, unlike the toy itself.
★½
A LEGO Brickumentary Movie Review on Twitter
111th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Platform
This dystopian (Spanish language/English dubbed) film is a heavy-handed allegory for capitalism and class warfare. Nonetheless, a smart and engaging concept of a multiple floor prison where food is distributed from top floor down, and it’s up to the inmates on each level to be mindful enough of those below. Decent acting throughout and a feeling of hopelessness pervades. Violent, desperate, and provocative.
★★★
The Platform Movie Review on Twitter
112th Movie Watched in 2020:
Les Misérables
Nothing is as electric as a live stage performance. Especially one of a musical that I believe towers above all others. Still, Tom Hooper delivers direction that is admirable and the core cast’s acting is better than expected, even if their voices cant obviously match that of their stage counterparts. Long, in parts, where the stage keeps you enthralled, and small screen can’t. Still, worthy adaptation from one of the greatest musicals in the world.
★★★★
Les Misérables Movie Review on Twitter
113th Movie Watched in 2020:
Mewto Strikes Back: Evolution
This isn’t a fair review. Why? I’m not the target audience. I don’t understand Pokémon. I only watched for my youngest. Animation is equivalent to a Nickelodeon show. Confusing. Seizure-inducing. Stupid. My opinions are my own.
½
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114th Movie Watched in 2020:
Z for Zachariah
The meandering plot of this story about the last few people on Earth in a post-apocalyptic world challenges it’s viewers to find any enjoyment whatsoever. The respectable cast (who I all love) is given little to do as their is no goal for the characters in the entire film. This would have been a better movie if I played a game on my phone while watching it.
★
Z for Zachariah Movie Review on Twitter
115th Movie Watched in 2020:
Cuban Fury
With a cheesy premise, this rom-com should have been a throwaway, but it isn’t thanks to Nick Frost’s lovable turn as a man rekindling his love of salsa after a bullying incident in his youth. Along with the likable Everyman, a good side cast keeps fun, light-hearted, feel-good flick up on its feet.
★★½
Cuban Fury Movie Review on Twitter
116th Movie Watched in 2020:
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
In this 6th film in the Potter franchise, the true mission is discovered as the boy wizard and his mentor, Professor Albus Dumbledore, begin the journey to defeat the dark lord. Storyline aside, I’ll bypass plot details and dedicate this review to the amazing Alan Rickman who deftly portrayed Severus Snape (one of the great multi-layered literary characters of all time) with such perfect aplomb, no one could do it better.
An incredible portrayal of a character that will stand the test of time. Little did we know at this point in the films/books how terrific his arc would turn out to be.
★★★½
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Movie Review on Twitter
117th Movie Watched in 2020:
Eli
An above-average horror films with some twists that only a seasoned movie fan will pick up on before the reveals. This Netflix original about a child allergic to the outside world delivers quality acting, a few good frights, and, what’s most important, a decent mystery at its core.
★★★
Eli Movie Review on Twitter
118th Movie Watched in 2020:
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1
The penultimate film in the Potter franchise is a slow burn, with danger intensified but action limited. The dark lord winning the war and the protagonists in hiding left me underwhelmed and anxious for part 2.
★★
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 Movie Review on Twitter
119th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Last Thing He Wanted
I’m not saying it’s the worst movie I’ve seen all year, but it’s bottom 5 for sure. Excruciatingly boring true story about 80’s Nicaraguan rebels being assisted by USA and the illogical journalist that gets mixed up in it. Confusing at times, unfortunately bad acting (but for Dafoe), and zero character motivation to explain away plot holes. Take a hard pass on this Netflix snooze fest.
½
The Last Thing He Wanted Movie Review on Twitter
120th Movie Watched in 2020:
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2
While my boys have read the books, I haven’t. Nonetheless, I find this to be an excellent denouement to JK Rowling’s boy wizard franchise. The journey of the beloved characters come to fitting conclusions, some happy, some sad. Certain characters’ motivations come full circle (beautifully written, and more importantly, acted). Wizardry on camera and off is at an all-time high.
A magical ending. Grade A.
★★★★
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 Movie Review on Twitter
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121st Movie Watched in 2020:
They Came Together
This goofy, R-rated, slapstick send-up of romantic comedies directed by The State’s David Wain is absurdly funnier than I expected. Hilarious turns by the cast of characters and great cameos plus a script rife with humorous overkill. I laughed a lot, but admittedly my wife hated it.
★★½
They Came Together Movie Review on Twitter
122nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Anaconda
I hadn’t seen this since it was in the theaters, and time has not been kind to this giant killer snake campfest. The creature effects involving the snake and its attacks are frighteningly low-rent. So fake it’s sad-funny, not scary. J-Lo, I’ve Cube, and Eric Stoltz phone it in, while Voight vamps it up in this trashy excuse for entertainment.
★
Anaconda Movie Review on Twitter
123rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile
Focusing more on the media coverage of the courtroom case (and his girlfriends) than on the gruesome murders he committed or his motivation, this film about Ted Bundy is still engrossing. Zac Efron is ideally cast as the killer. A mark was missed in the making of the film when the two women He has a relationship with yield al the screen time and his victims yield almost none.
★★½
Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile Movie Review on Twitter
124th Movie Watched in 2020:
Fred 2: Night of the Living Fred
Let it be known, this was not my pick. This is what happens when you let a YouTube star make a feature film. The most annoying sound in the world isn’t in Dumb and Dumber, it’s Fred’s high-pitched voice. Elementary attempt at humor = big thumbs down.
Fred 2: Night of the Living Fred Movie Review on Twitter
125th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Wind
This creepy frontier horror film is big on atmosphere and skinny on dialogue. Considered a feminist gothic film, it is a bit artsy with a slow burn story and one really good scare. A tough, independent wife deals with an evil spirit, life on the prairie, and paranoia. Story is told from her viewpoint and out of chronological order which keeps you watching.
★★
The Wind Movie Review on Twitter
126th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Willoughbys
A kid-friendly, silly animated movie w/ some darker themes and decent voice work. Selfish, neglectful parents treat their children with a Flowers-in-the-Attic vibe, but the siblings stick together as they try to become orphans. A few cute scenes but a little discombobulated.
★★
The Willoughbys Movie Review on Twitter
127th Movie Watched in 2020:
Extraction
Whiz-bang action sequences with quality gunplay and hand-to-hand combat, headlined by Chris Hemsworth. While he’s not the most emotive actor, few can keep up with his bravado and machismo. Long takes with limited cuts and choreographed violence, filmed quite a bit with shaky cam, keeps the blood pumping and forces an intense pace.
Reminiscent to Black Hawk Down in design where the characters are trapped behind enemy lines with the odds against them. Definitely a worthy Netflix watch.
★★★½
Extraction Movie Review on Twitter
128th Movie Watched in 2020:
Tiger Tail
Set in Tawain and America, this beautiful, soft-spoken foreign language film tells a story of love vs. obligation and captures the immigrant experience. Wonderful (and subtle) acting portrays love lost and regret among Asian American generations.
★★★
Tiger Tail Movie Review on Twitter
129th Movie Watched in 2020:
Mom and Dad Save the World
There really aren’t any redeeming qualities to share about this 90’s family-friendly flick. Miserable concept, script, effects, and acting. Jon Lovitz being Jon Lovitz was almost amusingly nostalgic. Attempts to be silly fail, and ends up just… dumb. For the most part, everything about this silly movie stinks.
½
Mom and Dad Save the World Movie Review on Twitter
130th Movie Watched in 2020:
Jacob’s Ladder (2019)
I recall somewhat respecting the original Jacob’s Ladder, but not liking it. With this remake, I somewhat like it but don’t respect it. Similar premise as the 1990 film, but they give it away early and try to replace the mystery with a twist. More characters are added, and special effects improve, but still somehow make the film weaker. No longer psychologically haunting.
★½
Jacob’s Ladder Movie Review on Twitter
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131st Movie Watched in 2020:
Don’t F**k With Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer
Yes, it may be a 3 episode limited Netflix series but I’m reviewing it as a film as it’s only 3 hours. (Considering I still watch series, i’ll now include Limited Series in as movies). Those who read reviews know I don’t give out 5 stars easily – only a handful have ever received it. Don’t F**k With Cats deserves it. This was the best and most compelling true crime documentary I’ve ever seen. Details of the crimes and the internet sleuths’ hunt laid out chronologically added to the intrigue. Editing was incredible. Doubt I’ll ever forget it.
★★★★★
Don’t F**k With Cats Movie Review on Twitter
132nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Draft Day
An unpopular opinion: Draft Day is a top 5 all-time favorite sports film of mine (and this is probably my 10th viewing). Kevin Costner was put on this Earth to make sports movies and westerns, that’s it. Even though the subject matter shouldn’t be exciting, it somehow is. The split-screen transitions add much to the tempo of the action, and the storytelling is electric. Only reason this isn’t a perfect 5 stars across the board is a few of the interpersonal dynamics between people in the front office and family rings just a touch hollow. But this film is Super Bowl worthy in the pantheon of sports movies.
★★★★½
Draft Day Movie Review on Twitter
133rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events
A great example of a family friendly fable blending together story and performances that works for parents & kids alike. Light-hearted yet with dark thematic elements surrounding a playful Jim Carrey in full-out creative mode. Accessible for everyone.
★★★½
Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events Movie Review on Twitter
134th Movie Watched in 2020:
You Were Never Really Here
Joaquin Phoenix is great as the depressed, suicidal brute who finds missing children and hurts those that hurt them. More introspective psychological drama than action thriller; it breaks standard tropes by not over explaining anything or accentuating violence.
★★★
You Were Never Really Here Movie Review on Twitter
135th Movie Watched in 2020:
Krull
Understand, the nostalgia I have for this 80’s fantasy flick is palpable. I loved this movie in my youth and I can confirm, now that it is in HD, it remains epic, despite dated special effects and creature work. Early Liam Neeson and Robbie Coltrane FTW! This movie, above most others, deserves a big budget yet artsy, carefully-directed remake.
★★★
Krull Movie Review on Twitter
136th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Silence
Despite the always amazing Stanley Tucci headlining, this just above b-movie knock-off of A Quiet Place frustrates instead of scares. In a world where creatures require you to be silent, why does an entire family that knows sign language insist on talking aloud?! Including the deaf daughter!
★½
The Silence Movie Review on Twitter
137th Movie Watched in 2020:
Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery
This daffy spoof of British secret agents was hilarious when it first debuted, but it’s lost a little luster since. Some of the jokes may be out of style or dated, but enough of its sight gags hold up. Regardless, Mike Myers as Dr. Evil is universally funny. Dr. Evil and his son Scott are long overdue for a spin-off.
★★★
Austin Powers Movie Review on Twitter
138th Movie Watched in 2020:
Tucker and Dave vs. Evil
A genuinely funny romp wrapped around a horror movie premise. Flipping the slasher film stereotype of backwoods hillbillies vs college kids in the woods, in this case, the affable hillbillies are the good guys. A wacky spoof filled with belly-laugh moments.
★★★½
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139th Movie Watched in 2020:
Major Payne
The prototypical underdog story gets the setting of a group of misfits in a ROTC program competing for a prize. While it has a couple funny bits, this movie is entirely sustained by the unorthodox and perfect delivery by Damon Wayans in lead role.
★★½
Major Payne Movie Review on Twitter
140th Movie Watched in 2020:
What Men Want
While I appreciate the goal of female empowerment in a male-dominated workplace, this bland remake of What Women Want falls flat. Taraji P. Henson is a force, but beyond a few R-rated jokes that land, this is formulaic and predictable.
★½
What Men Want Movie Review on Twitter
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141st Movie Watched in 2020:
Dan in Real Life
Let it be known, my love for this movie cannot be overstated. As close to a perfect film as the last decade has made. Steve Carell brings both humor, vulnerability and heart to a role not seen since the days of John Candy. Every time I watch it, I’m brought to tears. No other movie can make me cry from laughter, from sadness, from joy, and from beauty, at separate times, all over the course of an hour and a half. Superbly crafted and written film.
★★★★★
Dan in Real Life Movie Review on Twitter
142nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me
One of the few instances where the sequel bests the original. Characters get to expand on what makes them great, wordplay bits are funnier, and laughs come more frequently. Dr. Evil rocks. Plus… Heather Graham.
★★★½
Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me Movie Review on Twitter
143rd Movie Watched in 2020:
The ‘Burbs
An underrated 80’s thriller comedy with solid turns by a quality cast, especially Tom Hanks and Bruce Durn. Director Joe Dante didn’t match his usual high marks, and the ending seemed rushed. The writing is the only thing that held this movie about suburban paranoia back.
★★½
The ‘Burbs Movie Review on Twitter
144th Movie Watched in 2020:
Gerald’s Game
Another unsettling Stephen King yarn. In the creepy vein of Misery, the majority of the movie takes place in one setting and a person stuck in a situation no one wants to be in. Gugino and Greenwood (two fine actors) do well, but it’s considerably slower than I prefer.
★★½
Gerald’s Game Movie Review on Twitter
145th Movie Watched in 2020:
Bad Education
Corruption and greed upend a school district in this film based on a true story. At the heart of this movie exists two great performances. Allison Janney is terrific, tough, and broken, while Hugh Jackman gives a refreshing turn, playing both criminal and vulnerable. While the movie does a respectable job laying out the details and personal lives of the perpetrators, little attention is shared about the victims of this scandal. Due to this, the stakes aren’t explained enough to hit home. Worth the watch, but doesn’t pack an emotional punch.
★★★
Bad Education Movie Review on Twitter
146th Movie Watched in 2020:
I Am Legend
One of the better post-apocalyptic movies, caused by a virus (how apropos). Will Smith plays the virologist soldier aiming to find the cure in a lonely world. Some good jump scares and emotional moments in this thriller. While creature effects aren’t perfect, camera work and a desolate Times Square is Erie.
★★★★
I Am Legend Movie Review on Twitter
147th Movie Watched in 2020:
Man on a Ledge
Predictable thriller – an ex-cop convict risking his life to prove his innocence with an overly elaborate plan. Main actors Worthington and Banks don’t have the emotional depth needed for the gravity of the story but Ed Burns and Genesis Rodriguez hold their own.
★★
Man on a Ledge Movie Review on Twitter
148th Movie Watched in 2020:
Rambo: Last Blood
Sylvester Stallone’s John Rambo is an iconic action hero. That aside, this standard revenge script doesn’t seem to be Rambo material. Could have been a standalone movie for any action person with a backstory and a penchant for blades and bows. It’s just a bloodbath of booby traps. However, our leading man is SO violent in his killings and death trap creations, he is like Jigsaw but with less panache. John Rambo appears to be nothing more than sadist with mental disorders. But if you like a lot of killing… this is your movie. Everything else about it is subpar, given the magnitude of the character’s canon.
★★
Rambo: Last Blood Movie Review on Twitter
149th Movie Watched in 2020:
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
I’m not ashamed to say I enjoy romantic comedies, but trust me when I say rewatching this wasn’t by choice. A garden variety rom-com with a far-fetched set-up doesn’t fail from the concept, but from the utter lack of charisma in its leads.
★★
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days Movie Review on Twitter
150th Movie Watched in 2020:
Reclaim
I went in with low expectations and yet it surprisingly wasn’t unbearable, as much as John Cusack’s one-note acting tried to make it so. A remedial thriller with good intentions and a fresh take on child trafficking. Still, some major plot holes abound.
★★
Reclaim Movie Review on Twitter
151st Movie Watched in 2020:
Cats
(Not the musical). Originally titled Cats and Peachtopia, this Chinese cartoon film (dubbed in English) doesn’t fail miserably because of the quality of its animation, but due to its unoriginal premise (an obvious rip-off of Finding Nemo). Executed so poorly I never smiled once during the entire movie.
★
Cats Movie Review on Twitter
152nd Movie Watched in 2020:
My Dog Skip
A heartwarming coming of age story about a boy and his dog in a small town in the 1940’s. It ends stronger than it begins, aiming to tug heartstrings. With an amiable cast, the movie tries to be more than it is, yet doesn’t need to be.
★★★
My Dog Skip Movie Review on Twitter
153rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Raiders of the Lost Ark
We’ve all seen this classic adventure film starring a charismatic Harrison Ford as the titular archeologist/action hero, Indiana Jones. Instead of a review, I’ll celebrate the amazing work of John Williams as composer and the stellar sound effects created by Ben Burtt.
★★★★
Raiders of the Lost Ark Movie Review on Twitter
154th Movie Watched in 2020:
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
While this is nowhere near the best Indiana Jones movie in the franchise, I always felt it to be the most memorable, despite having a less than ideal first act, and a dreadful 2nd act. Short Round makes it interesting, an evil baddie makes it dangerous, but Kate Capshaw as the damsel in distress makes it annoying. Thankfully, Act III brings it back to respectability with a few quality action sequences, one involving a rope bridge – that I always felt was a highlight of the series.
★★★
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom Movie Review on Twitter
155th Movie Watched in 2020:
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
My personal favorite among the films in this franchise. The action is steady from the start (w/ a flashback that adds character depth) to the end. Momentum never stops. Moreover, this is the best storyline and artifact of the series. Plus, Connery brings a fun element to the team, raising the stakes for the Jones family.
★★★★★
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade Movie Review on Twitter
156th Movie Watched in 2020:
I See You
Considerably better psychological thriller than I was expecting. Great atmosphere created with uneasy camera work and score. Keeps you guessing. Some nice surprises/twists that pay off in interesting ways. Not scary at all, but a fulfilling watch thanks to a solid concept and story.
★★★★
I See You Movie Review on Twitter
157th Movie Watched in 2020:
Holy Rollers
This cautionary tale of a Hasidic man lured into being a drug mule is interesting, but not enthralling. Based on a true story, it definitely provides peek behind the curtain of Orthodox Jewish culture. It’s filmed in a muted color filter, taking away the vibrancy of what transpires on screen, in an effort to parallel how religion and drugs can dull the senses.
★★
Holy Rollers Movie Review on Twitter
158th Movie Watched in 2020:
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
It’s not that the 4th installment of everyone’s favorite archeologist is bad, per se, as the artifact they seek is intriguing, and it’s nice seeing a family reunite, even if adding in a few new roles is frustrating. Checks the boxes of all the other Indiana Jones films, but… this one isn’t fun.
★★½
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull Review on Twitter
159th Movie Watched in 2020:
Hangman
In this overly-formulaic, unoriginal, cat-and-mouse thriller based around the word game, plot is thin, and characters are one-note. Al Pacino is his regular Al Pacino self but with failed attempt at a Louisiana accent. This movie so desperately wants to be Se7en, but is more like 1 1/2.
★½
Hangman Movie Review on Twitter
160th Movie Watched in 2020:
One Crazy Summer
The archetypal John Cusack 80’s flick, just a step below Better Off Dead. Let’s be frank… Is this is quality film? No.
But does it have all the 80’s movie elements in place to make it lovable?
Let us see…
Likable everyman longing for love? Check.
Sidekick solely their for stupid humor? Check.
Typical 80’s comedy villain played by a well-built, wealthy young adult with no redeeming qualities? Check.
A competition where the underdog triumphs against all odds? Check.
May be considered throwaway in the grand scheme of 80’s youthful teen comedy films but makes you miss the days of inane humor and a genuine sense of lightheartedness.
★★
One Crazy Summer Movie Review on Twitter
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161st Movie Watched in 2020:
Fred: The Movie
This was NOT by choice. My youngest chose it since it was his turn to pick our movie night selection.
Let it be known:
This movie is unbearable. The most annoying character to ever be on television (and that includes Regis Philbin). This movie is what migraines and rat poison are made of.
(As I look back on these reviews, this was my least favorite movie of the year. Just. The. Worst.)
½ (I’d give zero stars if possible)
Fred: The Movie Review on Twitter
162nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Dangerous Lies
A predictable thriller, yet I appreciate the attempt to make a mystery that tackles adult themes without requiring it to be R-rated. Nonetheless, this is one of those movies where you’ll get frustrated watching because you disagree with or don’t understand any characters’ motivation or decision-making. It’s a yell-at-the-screen-because-the characters-are-stupid, type of movie. Not the actors’ fault, but the writer’s.
★★
Dangerous Lies Movie Review on Twitter
163rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood
I find this film to be the epitome of cool. Easily one of Quentin’s best directing efforts. Tarantino captured old Hollywood elan (and even Italian cinema) so well, he could have respectfully taken best director. Why does Once Upon a Time in Hollywood ranked as one of Tarantino’s best efforts? Quentin is always great at making iconic scenes in movies, but the sum of those scenes don’t always come together into cohesive movies. (If you look closely, most of the great scenes in his movie involve interrogations of one character from another. While they still have flourishes I’d those scenes in this, there are brandishes of restraint where dialogue becomes dialogue, rather than a competition. The finished product was a stylish culmination of script and cool. He absolutely nailed it. Adding on… Shot composition was incredible and he didn’t rush the story in the editing booth.
From an acting perspective, Brad Pitt flashed an Alpha male machismo perfect for the role, but didn’t disappear into it. You just felt like you were watching the most confident guy in Hollywood. I feel if anyone deserved an acting nomination, it was DiCaprio. He BECAME Rick Dalton. He portrayed a struggling actor looking for a splash of esteem brilliantly (and that’s knowing Leo never has had to suffer with those same concerns since he has been on fire for 20 years).Both actors were tremendous. Nonetheless, I love this film. It’s not perfect, but the ending was close to it. Who wants perfect in Hollywood anyway?
★★★★½
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Movie Review on Twitter (part 1)
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Movie Review on Twitter (part 2)
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Movie Review on Twitter (part 3)
164th Movie Watched in 2020:
Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Movie
While I will always have a soft spot in my heart (and my head) for this movie (and the show that originated it), a lot of these jokes are wickedly outdated. Even back in the mid-90’s I recalled thinking some of the jokes were from the mid-80’s. Still caused me to have a few belly laughs, but my wife is right calling it “stupid humor”.
★★
Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Movie Review on Twitter
165th Movie Watched in 2020:
Escape Room
This fun B-movie thriller (in the vein of Cube) takes unsuspecting players through escape rooms of campy puzzles of death. If you can suspend disbelief of many elements, it’s an entertaining watch. Not tense, but still a nice diversion.
★★½
Escape Room Movie Review on Twitter
166th Movie Watched in 2020:
Bastille Day
(Also known as “The Take”)
Fairly standard cops and robbers fare. Likable criminal meets tough special agent and buddy up to take down bad guys. Idris is his normal dominant self. In this French-American film, French cops chase Americans played by British actors. I don’t know.
★★
Bastille Day Movie Review on Twitter
167th Movie Watched in 2020:
Alien
This Ridley Scott-directed classic is a masterpiece of the sci-fi horror genre. It starts slow, but when it ratchets up the intensity in the 2nd act, it doesn’t stop. A taut thriller with brilliant use of sound and effects to get the heart pumping. Sigourney Weaver will always be my 1st female action star
★★★★
Alien Movie Review on Twitter
168th Movie Watched in 2020:
Good Time
A respectable (and realistic) turn by Robert Pattinson in this story about a situation spiraling out of control. Another cautionary tale about how one crime can have a compounding effect, constantly digging a deeper hole for the criminal. Actions get frustrating, and the helplessness of the main character’s mentally-handicapped brother isn’t portrayed as sufficiently as I’d like, but a gritty film nonetheless.
★★½
Good Time Movie Review on Twitter
169th Movie Watched in 2020:
Don’t Think Twice
Great example of what it’s like to be in an improv troupe. I doubt I’d have liked it as much without my history in improv and sketch comedy, but much of the trial and tribulations of the players hits home. (After watching this, I’m thankful it never got to this high stakes of “make it or break it” as a performer. They represent the standard seasoned troupe – the unwavering support and hints of competitiveness. The love for one another and the jealousy. Like every improv show I’ve ever performed or watched, this movie is filled with highs and lows, but it has a worthy cast that doesn’t make it about the humor but about the journey of the characters.
★★★½
Don’t Think Twice Movie Review on Twitter
170th Movie Watched in 2020:
Aliens (Director’s Cut)
My favorite sci-fi film of all time. I know it doesn’t have the existential dread or deep thoughts that 2001 or Interstellar has, but this has always been a blood-pumping good time. Director’s Cut added a lot of context and exposition I felt should have been in the original release. James Cameron crafted two of the great sequels of my life, and this bested the original Alien in my book. Sigourney Weaver (and that iconic head tilt!) will forever be the greatest action heroine (heck, hero) because of this film. James Horner on music/sound delivered iconic work and the creature and visual effects were top-notch. A gem for the ages.
★★★★★
Alien’s (Director’s Cut) Movie Review on Twitter
171st Movie Watched in 2020:
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. the Reverend
(An Interactive Movie)
I didn’t “hate” it, per se, but considering how much I enjoyed the series and characters, I’m shocked I disliked it as much as I did. I have gone down enough of the “choose your own adventure” style paths to determine there is very little quality humor here. The sitcom is filled with brilliant one-liners but this is barren of them. A few good jokes land during the course of the entire films. That’s it. And even those can’t overcome the wildly uneven script and interactive format. This didn’t need to be made, other than the give Kimmy an ending that she would be proud of (provided your choose correctly.)
★
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt Movie Review on Twitter
172nd Movie Watched in 2020:
City of Ember
An accessible, kid-friendly fantasy film with a good enough premise to keep adults and children interested throughout. Filled with Machiavellian leaders, an underground society of survivors who’ve forgotten about the world, teenage protagonists. Just missing more backstory & depth – which is funny given it takes place beneath the surface. There is a really good story and mythology here, that simply wasn’t addressed or uncovered in the movie.
★★★
City of Ember Movie Review on Twitter
173rd Movie Watched in 2020:
John Henry
Wow! (And NOT in a good way). There is a lot wrong here. The stunted dialogue, generic roles, rigid acting, stupid violence, and lousy tempo all make watching this a burden. Worse, though, is wasting (the usually electric) Terry Crews in this stereotypical role that could have been played by literally anyone. He simply wasn’t allowed to act and it was painful.
★
John Henry Movie Review on Twitter
174th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Beastmaster
I still love this sword & sandals & sorcery classic from my youth. Sure, some of the dubbed audio isn’t perfect, nor is the fight choreography or acting, but dang it, the nostalgia came roaring back when I saw Marc Singer and Tanya Roberts embrace. I also miss the days when real animals are used in films. While watching this, my son insisted the tiger was CGI, and wouldn’t believe me when I said “CGI wasn’t really even invented then!” Nonetheless, a real throwback to my childhood.
★★★½
The Beastmaster Movie Review on Twitter
175th Movie Watched in 2020:
Fractured
A predictable thriller trying its best to be a psychological whodunit, yet you’d prefer had the writer not overthink it and just go with the the straightforward concept they allude to all along. Nonetheless, it’s intriguing enough to keep you watching, and Sam Worthington actually gives his best performance to date.
★★★
Fractured Movie Review on Twitter
176th Movie Watched in 2020:
Imagine That
Buried within the collection of Eddie Murphy kid-friendly films is the garden-variety charmer about a father connecting with his little-understood daughter. Regardless if the movie is good or bad, I always like watching Eddie be Eddie.
★★½
Imagine That Movie Review on Twitter
177th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Wrong Missy
Like most Happy Madison productions, you’re in for the usual stupid, ludicrous, and lewd humor. It’s filmed well, but will test your willingness to put up with remedial comedy. You’ll still laugh aloud at times – all you can ask for.
★★
The Wrong Missy Movie Review on Twitter
178th Movie Watched in 2020:
Hachi: A Dog’s Tale
A touching tribute of the love and loyalty a man and his dog have for each other. Based on a true story, this story about man’s best friend does its best to to tug at your heartstrings. A sad, simple and graceful tale.
★★★½
Hachi: A Dog’s Tale Movie Review on Twitter
179th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Killing of a Sacred Deer
Disturbing, unsettling, and frustratingly slow film casts uneasiness throughout. Art-house film fans may love the sterile nature of the dialogue and relationships within, but I feel it’s lacking because of that. The movie is well made, but I am still mad at it for a multitude of reasons. Mainly because it answers the why but not the how. The primary mystery in the movie receives zero consideration. That doesn’t make it esoteric, it just makes it unfulfilling.
★★½
The Killing of a Sacred Deer Movie Review on Twitter
180th Movie Watched in 2020:
Coneheads
I was a high school kid working in a video store when this movie hit the shelves and we always had it playing on the tv monitors. For that reason, it will always hold a place in my heart, but let it be known, this is not a good movie, nor is it very funny. Better than the SNL skits of which it is based, but not exceptionally entertaining 25 years later.
★½
Coneheads Movie Review on Twitter
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181st Movie Watched in 2020:
A Monster’s Call
A fantastical allegory about grief and loss among a boy, his sick mom, and a mystical tree. Incredible acting across the board, especially by the young boy. J.A. Bayona delivered a heart-wrenching yet beautiful tale with tremendous special effects.
★★★½
A Monster’s Calls Movie Review on Twitter
182nd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Lovebirds
There’s a fine line between bantering and bickering, but this movie thankfully lands on the former. While this is another unrealistic set-up of dumb choices getting a cute couple in hot water, Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiana’s chemistry (and delivery) make the film enjoyable (though not noteworthy).
★★½
The Lovebirds Movie Review on Twitter
183rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Circle
For a sci-fi movie high on premise and weak on execution, it surprisingly kept me enthralled. It’s like a highest stakes evil game of Survivor, where Darwinism trumps decency. Where snap judgments and mental game-play lead to survival or death. Some great moral questions were asked, but not properly addressed.
★★½
Circle Movie Review on Twitter
184th Movie Watched in 2020:
Big Fat Liar
A cute enough kids movie where the big bad adult gets what’s coming to him through pranks put in place by teenagers. Paul Giamatti is always game for this type of role and, while I’m not the target audience, it had my son laughing.
★★
Big Fat Liar Movie Review on Twitter
185th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Decline
(also known as Jusqu’au déclin)
This French Canadian film about a fatality at a survivalist camp has a few small surprises, but plays out the way you want. Not near enough character development to care for the characters, but enough emotion to stay watching. It’s somehow a slow movie that plays fast.
★★★
The Decline Movie Review on Twitter
186th Movie Watched in 2020:
Come to Daddy
I knew absolutely nothing about this movie going in, but it’s a weird dark comedy thriller that offers quality surprises and an all-in effort by Elijah Wood. Some unexpected gonzo violent scenes make it both fun and sad all at once.
★★★½
Come to Daddy Movie Review on Twitter
187th Movie Watched in 2020:
From Beijing With Love
I’m a huge fan of Stephen Chow’s “Shaolin Soccer” and “Kung Fu Hustle”, and I Love Chinese cinema so I had high hopes. This is nothing like those. No real effects, and much of the humor in this spoof on spy movies is agonizingly basic. Jokes fell flat, only a couple chuckles, and almost painful to get through. Bad.
★
From Beijing With Love Movie Review on Twitter
188th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Darkest Minds
I’ll say, while I’m sure the critics aren’t fans of this supernatural YA flick, I enjoyed the premise. Obviously springing from a book as source material, I can completely see this being a franchise, and the lead actress has chops. Pretty standard young adult fare, but I would keep watching sequels.
★★★
The Darkest Minds Movie Review on Twitter
189th Movie Watched in 2020:
Secret Obsession
This easily could have been a Lifetime Movie given how clichéd this thriller is. Lousy script has “clues” as subtle as jackhammers. I called the “twist” in the first 3 minutes of the movie. Dennis Haysbert deserves better. About as unsurprising and conventional as a movie can get.
★½
Secret Obsession Movie Review on Twitter
190th Movie Watched in 2020:
Dumbo
Some way some how Tim Burton (a director gifted at making movies of oddities, giving them vision and heart) found a way to create a live action remake of the animated Disney classic with zero magic. Sad, considering the likable cast did a valiant effort to their roles, but all of the whimsical nature of the original flew away. He made seeing a flying elephant… tedious.
★★
Dumbo Movie Review on Twitter
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191st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Matrix Reloaded
I always felt this sequel to the genre-redefining action behemoth was good, but failed because it wasn’t great enough to WOW the audience. Yet, pound for pound, they upped the ante with better choreographed action sequences. Stakes were raised by bringing even more danger underground and pushing the messiah concept. Yet the over abundance of explanatory dialogue made this drab in parts.
★★★½
The Matrix Reloaded Movie Review on Twitter
192nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Rattlesnake
Not my normal review: I get frustrated with characters that make stupid decisions or lack poor motivation. If the Devil tells you your child dies unless you kill someone before sunset, you act on it quickly. You don’t hem and haw while wasting countless chances. Idiotic.
★½
Rattlesnake Movie Review on Twitter
193rd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Hustle
This female-centric remake of the classic Dirty Rotten Scoundrels didn’t do an adequate enough job deviating from the source material to make it special. Anne Hathaway is typically a delight, but she seems hamstrung by an uninspired script. Lackluster comedy with none of the charm of laughs from the original. Aim higher.
★★
The Hustle Movie Review on Twitter
194th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Matrix Revolutions
The Wachowski Brothers put ALL the effects they could to finish up the trilogy, (too much at times), and leaned heavy on the Christlike comparison with our hero. A good (yet erratic) film but probably overthought the finale.
★★★
The Matrix Revolutions Movie Review on Twitter
195th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Occupant
This psychological thriller from Spain made my wife mad but surprisingly pleased me. It demonstrates how a middle aged man descends into emotional instability because he is no longer professionally viable. I appreciate how it unfolded.
★★★
The Occupant Movie Review on Twitter
196th Movie Watched in 2020:
Kill Bill: Vol. 1
While not the most complete film, this is Quentin Tarantino’s best work. Yes, that’s what I said, despite the effusive praise I laid upon Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood. So many directing styles are explored in this thrill-ride, the movie cannot be overlooked. Incredible filmmaking, a legendary fight scene, a tour de force performance by Uma Thurman, and brilliant use of music and sound. Stylized and bold storytelling that cannot be overlooked.
★★★★★
Kill Bill: Vol. 1 Movie Review on Twitter
197th Movie Watched in 2020:
Maleficent
This fantastical Disney sequel bests its predecessor, and I’m surprised by how good it is. One of those great instances where going in expecting little pays off when it exceeds your expectations. The story (and Michelle Pfeiffer as the villain) are gratifying and scene-chewing in February best respective ways. Effects are top-notch. And as odd as it sounds, Angelina Jolie is born to play Maleficent. It absolutely is her best role.
★★★★
Maleficent Movie Review on Twitter
198th Movie Watched in 2020:
Life of Crime
Is it possible to have a good-natured dark comedy crime movie? Adapted from Elmore Leonard’s “The Switch”, it has witty characters and charm, for what is a quality B-movie with Jennifer Anniston and Tim Robbins. Endearing crime flick.
★★★
Life of Crime Movie Review on Twitter
199th Movie Watched in 2020:
Donnybrook
A distressful tale with no backstory, and no reason to care for the deplorable characters. Yet somehow still makes you feel sick to your stomach seeing a tragic example of how poverty, drugs, violence, and nihilism affects middle America.
A few stunning images and one sadistic, sad, sexual murder scene that took me by surprise still doesn’t override the abusive soundtrack and despondent path of its players.
★½
Donnybrook Movie Review on Twitter
200th Movie Watched in 2020:
Intuition (La Corazonada)
This Argentinian film is a meandering and slightly convoluted detective mystery filled with clichés (rogue cops, countless murders, red herrings, and multiple players), none of which gets you interested in solving.
★½
Intuition Movie Review on Twitter
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201st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
An incredible start to a perilous journey – one of the great adaptations of book to screen in the fantasy genre. Peter Jackson had such a strong vision for the trilogy, he pulled it off with aplomb. Wondrous effects. A grand vision. A perfect cast.
★★★★½
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring Movie Review on Twitter
202nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Hush
A run-of-the-mill home invasion slasher that still works to make the viewer happy. A lot of foreshadowing occurs that fans of horror flicks will pick up on immediately, but the mute deaf female protagonist and her creepy antagonist are noteworthy.
★★½
Hush Movie Review on Twitter
203rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Perdida
Just above average detective fare, this Argentinian film is about a cold case too personal foe the detective to let go. Second film I’ve watched based on the character Pipa, and I could watch Luisana Lopilato play cop all day. She has chops.
★★★
Perdida Movie Review on Twitter
204th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Invisible Man
Even with this thriller’s concept of “Sleeping with the Enemy” meets “Invisible Man”, the tricks up the sleeve are enough to keep blood pumping. A solid and worthy mash-up and addition to the thriller/horror genre. Nothing that makes you jump, but a good story. What makes it work is Elisabeth Moss’ tremendous acting. Believably disturbed and haunted.
★★★½
The Invisible Man Movie Review on Twitter
205th Movie Watched in 2020:
Good Will Hunting
After each and every watch, this continues to be a top 20 favorite movie of mine. Writing is superb. Gus Van Sant was considerate and careful in the directing. The true champion of this film was the incredible acting from each actor (every single one), especially Robin Williams. He disappeared into his role and gave a movie about someone’s brain all the heart it needed to be a phenomenal film.
★★★★★
Good Will Hunting Movie Review on Twitter
206th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
The second film in the LOTR Tolkien trilogy is the best, in my opinion. Groundbreaking in its effects, scale, and scope; held together by quintessential elements of friendship, duty, honor, betrayal and love.
★★★★½
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers Movie Review on Twitter
207th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
The epic culmination of the LOTR franchise is tremendous in spectacle and effects. All credit is owed to the cast and, most specifically, the monumental vision of director Peter Jackson. A saga for the ages.
★★★★½
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
208th Movie Watched in 2020:
Mercy
Any credit this movie receives goes to its writing. What started out as a basic, predictable thriller in the first half ends up anything but, thanks to the time-reconstruction from different characters’ viewpoints and some interesting twists. The acting and direction is nothing noteworthy, but some surprises along the way will make you appreciate the journey.
★★½
Mercy Movie Review on Twitter
209th Movie Watched in 2020:
Crocodile Dundee
Always enjoyed the simplicity of this genial romantic comedy of two people finding love in the most unexpected of places.
The movie works because of 2 elements:
1) The (real life) chemistry between the 2 stars
2) Paul Hogan’s charm and magnetism
★★★½
Crocodile Dundee Movie Review on Twitter
210th Movie Watched in 2020:
Uncut Gems
Can a movie give you an anxiety attack? I can’t recall a more nerve-wracking, hectic movie. Adam Sandler doesn’t disappoint (regardless how angry he makes you) and deserved the buzz he garnered for his performance. A few of my friends hated the movie and I can only surmise its because of the sheer frustration the pace and plot exudes, but I appreciated the movie for that very thing. I was a nervous wreck.
★★★★
Uncut Gems Movie Review on Twitter
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211th Movie Watched in 2020:
Brawl in Cell Block 99
Vince Vaughn plays an almost unnaturally strong bruiser who can slide from conscientious to cold-blooded in seconds, able to hurt people at will, as he traverses the prison system to protect his family. Gratuitously violent, Vaughn’s stone-faced wrecking ball fights for the other reasons, but makes a lot of the film play a little too easy. If you like graphic acts of random violence, this may peak your interest. If not, it may upset you.
★★½
Brawl in Cell Block 99 Movie Review on Twitter
212th Movie Watched in 2020:
Our House
A middling supernatural ghost story, one that follows typical fright film clichés with images appearing in the background when characters aren’t looking and family that doesn’t tell each other what they’re seeing soon enough. Run of the mill (some would say lackluster plot) w/ relationships between siblings and significant others that aren’t believable in the slightest.
★½
Our House Movie Review on Twitter
213th Movie Watched in 2020:
Crocodile Dundee II
The moxie Paul Hogan so deftly exudes in the original is on full display in the sequel as the franchise flips from fish out of tale love story to far-fetched adventure. May not have the emotional gravitas if the original, but the chemistry between stars is strong as ever, and the story even more fun!
★★★½
Crocodile Dundee II Movie Review on Twitter
214th Movie Watched in 2020:
John Wick: Chapter 2
At this point I’ve seen each John Wick movie about a dozen times each. They don’t get old. Even with all the gun-fu and some nice touches in the script expanding the mythology, Keanu doesn’t seem to be as passionate in this one. I just like my assassins to enjoy themselves a bit more. While the body count increases 10 fold, it gets a bit repetitive.
★★★½
John Wick: Chapter 2 Movie Review on Twitter
215th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Mummy
I’m a sucker for historian adventure films steeped in mythology or legend. The Mummy is the epitome of an entertaining, summertime popcorn flick. Look past the wooden acting by Brendan Fraser, it has likable heroes, big sets, CGI action, a big baddie, and is fun for the whole family.
★★★½
The Mummy Movie Review on Twitter
216th Movie Watched in 2020:
Willow
While it may not live up to the grandeur of other fantasy films, I always felt this was underrated and got a bad wrap. It’s enchanting enough with memorable characters and action sequences. Moreover, it’s great casting helps celebrate the heroism of little people, who have long been underrepresented in cinema.
★★★
Willow Movie Review on Twitter
217th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Last Days of American Crime
Standard “criminal with a conscience operating by a code” fare, but surrounded by an inventive premise and a kooky accomplice. Good enough to keep your attention but gives you no real heist thrills. It has got a real ‘True Romance’ vibe, but with none of the snappy dialogue.
★★½
The Last Days of American Crime Movie Review on Twitter
218th Movie Watched in 2020:
Drillbit Taylor
While cycling through potential family fare to watch, we stumbled upon this laughless, lifeless number starring Owen Wilson (or, “he who should no longer be employed”) as a hobo helping kids stand up for themselves. Unfunny and dumb with enough plot holes to almost fill his nostrils.
★
Drillbit Taylor Movie Review on Twitter
219th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Phantom
I’m not saying this mid-90’s film is the worst superhero movie ever made, but IT IS. Dialogue is atrocious. Stunts, action and effects are brutal. Acting is just. the. worst. Even my 14 year old recognized it when he said “Billy Zane is the worst actor he’s ever seen.”
½
The Phantom Movie Review on Twitter
220th Movie Watched in 2020:
Just Mercy
A quiet and resilient true story about one man’s mission to right the wrongs of social injustice in a prejudiced criminal system. Strong ensemble led by always-impressive Michael B Jordan. Filled with moving and powerful scenes, it delivers the message at the right time.
★★★★
Just Mercy Movie Review on Twitter
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221st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Vast of Night
A throwback-style sci-fi indie brilliantly ahead of its time in its ability to weave a tale through storytelling. I was glued to the film thanks to its (of-the-times) characters and fabulous cinematography. Surprisingly captivating for a simple, well-conceived, high-concept, perfectly-executes low-budget yarn.
★★★★
The Vast of Night Movie Review on Twitter
222nd Movie Watched in 2020:
John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum
The titular hero is at it again, against the odds and coming up with new and violently insane ways to kill his assailants. Action is at a premium, gunplay aplenty, and killing on high as the mythology of the High Table grows. Look closely and you’ll see him slowly assembling (earning) a team to help him take on the High Table.
★★★★
John Wick 3: Chapter 3 – Parabellum Movie Review on Twitter
223rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Dragged Across Concrete
What I initially thought to be a stunted script ended up turning into true-to-life (realistic) dialogue among the aggressive cops and cold-blooded criminals. Hyper violent and achingly slow, almost to a point. Some of the random character plots are cheap ploys to make you feel for a character only to take them away moments later. Regardless, Mel Gibson is always fun to watch on film, and Vince Vaughn does a respectable job too.
★★★
Dragged Across Concrete Movie Review on Twitter
224th Movie Watched in 2020:
Adventures in Babysitting
I remember seeing this good-not-great 80’s classic in the theater when I was a freshly minted teenager. Some of the humor and elements have held up well over the years and some haven’t. Elisabeth Shue gives a charismatic performance but all other characters are just that…characters.
★★★
Adventures in Babysitting Movie Review on Twitter
225th Movie Watched in 2020:
Wine Country
A few decent laughs and one-liners from misbehaving middle-aged women made this mildly pleasing, but the sum of its parts is a lazy, forgettable film. Thankfully, Maya Rudolph is a force of comedy and Paula Pell was a pleasant surprise.
★★
Wine Country Movie Review on Twitter
226th Movie Watched in 2020:
365 Days
Netflix’s erotic romance is all about power dynamics, beautiful scenery and gratuitous soft-core porn-style sex, mixed up in a paper-thin plot and dumb dialogue out of a trash novel. Regardless of the sexual intensity or chemistry the two leads have, I don’t find it attractive when a guy tells the woman he kidnapped that he will not touch her or force himself on her, but is constantly touching her, choking her, and forcing himself on her. A real Stockholm syndrome vibe permeates throughout.
Sexy? Maybe for some.
Creepy? Yes
Stupid? 50 shades of yes
★
365 Days Movie Review on Twitter
227th Movie Watched in 2020:
In a Valley of Violence
I’m a sucker for westerns and this has a very prototypical storyline that gives me the ‘protagonist thinks he’s bad because of his past but is good’~style plot I yearn for. Good action and Ethan Hawke continues to be a woefully underrated actor.
★★★½
In a Valley of Violence Movie Review on Twitter
228th Movie Watched in 2020:
Man of the House
An unremarkable 90’s kid comedy starring Chevy Chase (trying hard to bring some life to a lousy script) and Jonathan Taylor Thomas. Plot is ludicrous but there is a tender message at its heart about stepparents joining a family and the jealousy/competitive nature between a boy and new stepdads.
★½
Man of the House Movie Review on Twitter
229th Movie Watched in 2020:
Fantasy Island
This convoluted horror film misses the mark in most facets. Overly elaborate mystery to the island (and inhabitants’) fantasies that never carry any importance. No thrills or scares, and odd attempts at humor and sentiment. Not good.
★½
Fantasy Island Movie Review on Twitter
230th Movie Watched in 2020:
Vertical Limit
I probably watch this once a decade and while the plot is contrived, it keeps me hanging on. (Bad pun intended).
A genial cast mixed overcoming high stakes and better than average effects (for the time) make this adventurer enjoyable.
★★★
Vertical Limit Movie Review on Twitter
231st Movie Watched in 2020:
Black and Blue
What I thought was to be a standard-issue police tale turned into an above average action film w/ deserved tension and relevant themes. Law enforcement and communities of color are forever intertwined, and here they’re integral to a better than expected plot.
★★★½
Black and Blue Movie Review on Twitter
232nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Killing Gunther
Taran Killam was a talented live-wire act on SNL so I hoped this hitman mockumentary he wrote and directed would have that same zany energy, but it missed the mark greatly. Bobby Moynihan is lovable (and seems like he would be just about the nicest guy to hang out with) but the movie doesn’t have near the amount of laughs it should. A few silly chuckles but not enough to want to see more of it.
★½
Killing Gunther Movie Review on Twitter
233rd Movie Watched in 2020:
A-X-L
Sometimes my enjoyment of a movie is based upon how much my kids like them, and my 9 year old really loved this movie so I, in turn, liked it. It’s got kid-friendly action, motorbikes, military, and a robot dog with a heartwarming feel. I’m sure critics likely panned it, but this was a great family movie night choice. For that reason, all I can say is it was a cute flick.
★★½
A-X-L Movie Review on Twitter
234th Movie Watched in 2020:
Greta
A noteworthy thriller that starts off slow, but catches steam during the third act. Isabelle Huppert and Chloë Grace Moretz deliver above average acting to elevate this from run-of-the-mill to suspenseful. A bit predictable but worthwhile.
★★★½
Greta Movie Review on Twitter
235th Movie Watched in 2020:
Carriers
This post-pandemic/apocalyptic film is not bad. Quite watchable even. But when trying to review it, I couldn’t pinpoint what I specifically liked above its relevance to our current times. Not scary or tense. Limited character development. Rather aimless.
★★
Carriers Movie Review on Twitter
236th Movie Watched in 2020:
Addams Family Values
My love for the Addams Family movies borders on unnatural and this sequel finds a way to even best its predecessor. Every single actor nails their respective role, (Cusack, Huston, Ricci, Lloyd as stand-outs) but none more than the masterful Raul Julia. He attacks the role of Gomez in such a fantastic, scene-stealing way, he deserved an Oscar nomination. I may not know every line by heart… but I’m close.
Little touches like the light on Angelica’s face and perfect delivery by Christina as Wednesday.
This movie is mi amor. Superb filmmaking.
★★★★★
Addams Family Values Movie Review on Twitter
237th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Son (El Hijo)
This Spanish & Norwegian language psychological thriller follows some expected tropes of the genre, but keeps you engaged. Tense and maddening. Proves how important it is to know the partner you’re bringing a child into the world with. It has been a while since a movie’s ending frustrated me like this, though.
★★½
The Son (El Hijo) Movie Review on Twitter
238th Movie Watched in 2020:
Christopher Robin
Marc Forster made a saccharine sweet movie of childhood characters with a jar full of nostalgia. While I would watch Ewan McGregor read the phone book, the slow pace of the 1st half does tests one’s patience. Touching, regardless.
★★★
Christopher Robin Movie Review on Twitter
239th Movie Watched in 2020:
Jaws
Yes, you read that right. I introduced my boys to the original summer blockbuster and I’ll tell you, it still holds up. The story, effects, dialogue, camaraderie, and acting are all top-shelf. The idiot mayor making reckless decisions for the good of the economy rather than the safety of the citizens? More relevant than ever. Still to this day, the masterpiece channels fear of going swimming in the ocean.
★★★★½
Jaws Movie Review on Twitter
240th Movie Watched in 2020:
In the Shadow of the Moon
A better-than-expected genre-bending thriller. Even when you begin to piece together the mystery in advance of the reveals, the payoffs are appreciated. Aging effects are substandard considering many years go by, but I appreciate the attempted twists that make the story entertaining.
★★★
In the Shadow of the Moon Movie Review on Twitter
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241st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Last Laugh
Comedy is comedy, whether the jokes are told by stand-ups or by elderly movie stars playing them. Chevy Chase has always been my comedy role model and his little idiosyncrasies are on full display here, but Dreyfus owns the movie. He still has amazing depth and delivery as an actor. While the movie stumbles a bit in the third act, it still makes you yearn for the best of these actors’ work. You won’t find it here, but it’s not a terrible film.
★★½
The Last Laugh Movie Review on Twitter
242nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Rim of the World
Call me a kid at heart, but I love films where kids/early teens face challenges from supernatural forces with the odds against them. Reminiscent of Stranger Things and IT. Some funny dialogue, reasonably good effects, and the power of friendship support this alien invasion flick.
★★★½
Rim of the World Movie Review on Twitter
243rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Lost Bullet (Balle Perdue)
French action film w/ a storyline I find becoming more the norm than the exception: Cops as the criminals and the criminal as the good guy. Pretty standard fare. A few good car chase/crash scenes but nothing special.
★★
Lost Bullet Movie Review on Twitter
244th Movie Watched in 2020:
When We First Met
A congenial romantic comedy that dives into the concept well of a couple much better films (Groundhog Day and About Time). Predictable outcome from the start but scrapes by with a goofy performance by the likable Adam DeVine.
★★
When We First Met Movie Review on Twitter
245th Movie Watched in 2020:
O Brother, Where Art Thou?
I finally introduced my kids to this, my favorite movie of all time. The Coen brothers’ loose adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey mesmerized me from first viewing. An incredible soundtrack breathes life into the scenes and the witty dialogue and delivery keeps the characters’ journey tactfully light and joyful.
The repartee of Pete (John Turturro), Delmar (Tim Blake Nelson), and Ulysses (George Clooney at his best) is a script-writing delight. In depression era south, these soggy-bottom prison escapees bring humor, song, social acceptance, and heart to my favorite movie.
★★★★★
O Brother, Where Art Thou Movie Review on Twitter (part 1)
O Brother, Where Art Thou Movie Review on Twitter (part 2)
246th Movie Watched in 2020:
Rocketman
One of the better music biopics I’ve seen, mostly because Taron Egerton’s performance as Elton John is 5/5 stars in talent. Smart incorporating in other’s vocals, as well as the musical numbers that swept us through scenes and history.
★★★★
Rocketman Movie Review on Twitter
247th Movie Watched in 2020:
Spaceballs
This goofy send-up of Star Wars always puts a smile on my face. Cheesy? Yes. Silly? Yes. Stupid? Oh yes! But there are still some solid laughs among the innuendos and poor acting in this parody. Not Mel Brooks’ best but it will do.
★★★
Spaceballs Movie Review on Twitter
248th Movie Watched in 2020:
Crawl
This straight-forward creature feature starts out with some promise. The hurricane effects are surprisingly great, as are that of the gators. The quality tension in the 1st half, though, devolves into some idiotic character decisions and ridiculous action sequences.
★★½
Crawl Movie Review on Twitter
249th Movie Watched in 2020:
A Simple Favor
I knew nothing of this movie going in, didn’t even read the plot summary, so was more than pleasantly surprised with the result. This genre-mash-up of a dark comedy and noir thriller with cute humor is delightful in its execution and ability to keep you guessing at “who’s in on it?”. This is both Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively’s best performances and best roles to date.
★★★★
A Simple Favor Movie Review on Twitter
250th Movie Watched in 2020:
47 Meters Down
Keeping with my recent glut of watching movies centered around underwater biological death machines, here lies 47 Meters Down. Solid tension and the two main actresses give good performances especially impressive considering they’re in scuba gear. The overly aggressive attacks, jump scares, CGI sharks, and ending are stupid, though. Even for this type of movie.
★★½
47 Meters Down Movie Review on Twitter
251st Movie Watched in 2020:
Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga
Rachel McAdams is much too good for this dreck. As is Pierce Brosnan. While it’s meant to be a typical Will Ferrell comedy about a European song contest, it brings little joy beyond McAdams and Brosnan. If I were judging just their performances, I might have gone three stars but everything else is unfunny trash.
★½
Eurovision Song Contest Movie Review on Twitter
252nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Enemy
Villeneuva is one of the great directors working today and he seems to always gets the best out of Gyllenhall. I was shocked I hadn’t seen this until now While I love how this movie is saturated with existential dread in a yellow hue, the surreal ending left so much to be desired, I feel a bit cheated. Even going down the rabbit hole online for explanations left me even more unsure, so if anyone wants to weigh in, please feel free.
★★★
Enemy Movie Review on Twitter
253rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Ghost Squad
A totally harmless, kid-friendly “scary movie” in the vein of a Nickelodeon style set-up. On the filmmaking scale, it’s low rent, but I’m rating this as a parent. Genial kids that don’t tip dangerous on the quality acting scale, with child-appropriate dialogue. Kids will prefer over adults but that’s fine. We’re not the target audience and little ones that like a spooky stuff will enjoy.
★★
Ghost Squad Movie Review on Twitter
254th Movie Watched in 2020:
El Camino Christmas
Like a cheap boxed wine, this movie has zero after taste. Watched it last night and have not a single memory of either happiness or sadness from its viewing. A throwaway film mixing together the most random assembly of less-than-A-list celebrities for no reason other than to waste an audience’s time.
★
El Camino Christmas Movie Review on Twitter
255th Movie Watched in 2020:
American Animals
Maybe this isn’t a fair review as I watched this in bits and pieces over a week, but it simply couldn’t keep my interest for more than 25 minutes at a time. I can now rank watching a true story of apathetic, entitled, listless young adults trying to steal art at the bottom of my list of things worth doing.
★
American Animals Movie Review on Twitter
256th Movie Watched in 2020:
Big
Watch this as a kid and you think it would be great to be older. Watch it as an adult and the fleeting memory of youth stings.
I haven’t watched this Tom Hank’s coming-of-age classic for 25 years and will admit, it hits a lot harder as an adult. Has a completely different feel nowadays. Never realized how well constructed, directed, acted, edited and produced it all was until now. Much respect.
Movie Review Afterthought:
Watch this as a kid and you think it would be great to be older.
Watch it as an adult and the fleeting memory of youth stings.
★★★★½
Big Movie Review on Twitter
257th Movie Watched in 2020:
Athlete A
It’s disgusting that for something as frivolous as a medal or as dangerous as sponsorship dollars that the USA Gymnastics org turned its back on its child athletes in this sad, frustrating doc of the Larry Nassar sexual abuse investigation. One takeaway many likely overlook is how important true investigative journalism is, opposed to sensational journalism.
★★★
Athlete A Movie Review on Twitter
258th Movie Watched in 2020:
Nadia
My wife was in gymnastics for 17 years, even getting a college scholarship, and later managing a gymnastics center, so her having me watch this true story of Olympic gold medalist Nadia Comâneci and the Karolyi coaches is a rite of passage into the sport. It plays like an after school special w/ nary a second thought given to Romanians with fully American accents. but it’s watchable.
★½
Nadia Movie Review on Twitter
259th Movie Watched in 2020:
Message from the King
I have newfound respect for bike chains.
Showing the seedy, degenerate side of wealth and crime in Los Angeles, a South African man descends on the city to avenge his sister and settle scores. Chadwick Boseman proves once again how great of an actor he is (when he isn’t playing a superhero).
★★★
Message from the King Movie Review on Twitter
260th Movie Watched in 2020:
Zoom
This lackluster family-friendly superhero flick is shoddily constructed and lazily acted. Tim Allen once again makes me question why he didn’t just retire after Galaxy Quest. Whoever blocked the scenes should go back to producing school plays.
★
Zoom Movie Review on Twitter
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261st Movie Watched in 2020:
Guns Akimbo
Come for the video game-style violence. Stay for the witty, acerbic dialogue.
This one took me by surprise and I liked it far more than I expect others will. Daniel Radcliffe (as the unwilling hero) & Samara Weaving (as the anti-hero) are funny, electric, and brilliant in their roles. Just a fun, fresh movie.
★★★★
Guns Akimbo Movie Review on Twitter
262nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Hamilton
Yes, I’m counting this as a movie. My wife teases me because of how much I like the theatre. Yet I had not seen this stage production or listened to the music. I’d only heard the buzz. And I can now say… IT WAS DESERVED OF ALL ACCOLADES.
While still didn’t best what I view as the pinnacle of musicals, Les Misérables, Manuel Lin Miranda has forever impressed me with everything he put together here. Incredible.
★★★★½
Hamilton Movie Review on Twitter
263rd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Show Must Go On: The Queen + Adam Lambert Story
There will only ever be one Freddie Mercury.
Once you can look past that, and realize no one is trying to duplicate him, this is worth watching.
Not a concert movie or real music biopic, but this ABC-produced documentary special explains how an iconic classic rock group could push forward with a new frontman. Well-produced and mildly entertaining. Pretty easy to root for the members of the band and Adam Lambert both together and individually. The most interesting part will always remain the music. And Queen’s music will live forever. No documentary is needed to keep it going, but it doesn’t hurt to give their music another vehicle to reach people.
★★½
The Show Must Go On Movie Review on Twitter
264th Movie Watched in 2020:
My Spy
Predictable and unrealistic kid action comedy. This CIA agent meets precocious (and far too advanced for her own age) 9-year old girl plays our exactly as you expect it to. Stolid but genial acting by Bautista and the most forgettable bad guy possible makes this a so-so entry into the genre.
★★
My Spy Movie Review on Twitter
265th Movie Watched in 2020:
A Vigilante
Olivia Wilde delivers an emotionally raw and fierce performance as a woman delivering retribution on behalf of domestic abuse survivors. Simple and lean filmmaking with excellent acting as Wilde turns from victim to avenger, helping people who can’t defend themselves. Entire movie is elevated because of the many performances, specifically Olivia.
★★★
A Vigilante Movie Review on Twitter
266th Movie Watched in 2020:
Only
A killer virus caused from a comet wipes out all (most) females on Earth in this middling post-apocalyptic thriller. It wants desperately to be the far superior Children of Men, but lazy filmmaking and shot sequence fails it. Leslie Odom Jr is the only bright spot.
★★
Only Movie Review on Twitter
267th Movie Watched in 2020:
Heist
Jeffrey Dean Morgan is one of the most charismatic actors working today, and Robert DeNiro gives us a glimpse of how good an actor he once was. Definitely not the David Mamet movie of the same name, this formulaic heist movie comes with a predictable twist wrapped up w/ a Hollywood approved-pleasing ending. Still, JDM playing the stereotypical crook with a heart of gold still makes the movie one to check out.
★★½
Heist Movie Review on Twitter
268th Movie Watched in 2020:
Moonwalkers
This movie doesn’t fully know what it wants to be, and it shows. It positions itself as a wacky comedy with a historical “what-if” hypothetical, yet is littered with scenes of brutality and bloodshed. Ron Perlman shows layered acting and Rupert Grint is his usually frantic, unsure self, but that’s the extent of positives in this messy, meandering film.
★½
Moonwalkers Movie Review on Twitter
269th Movie Watched in 2020:
Zathura: A Space Adventure
Following in the footsteps of Jumanji a decade after its release, this family friendly flick takes two brothers through a space-themed board game. While Jon Favreau did a bang up job as director with the effects and pacing, the script is unoriginal and kid actors annoying.
★★
Zathura Movie Review on Twitter
270th Movie Watched in 2020:
Midway
As a war movie buff, had high hopes for this film about the events leading up the the battle of Midway. Where the story delivers in effects, action, and historical significance, it fails in the cast’s concrete acting. Heroes deserve better.
★★½
Midway Movie Review on Twitter
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271st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Meg
Another creature feature filled with biological inaccuracies, close calls, and unrealistic situations. Yet, for some reason, it’s one if my youngest’s favorite movies. Replaces intensity with mindless action, but still manages to be a mildly enjoyable summer film.
★★½
The Meg Movie Review on Twitter
272nd Movie Watched in 2020:
United Skates
The struggle some members of the black community and minority small business owners have trying to maintain adult skate nights nationwide is highlighted in this uplifting documentary. Between fighting back racial stereotypes and overcoming financial hardships to preserve a culture of a hobby as positive as roller skating, the film follows do-gooders yearning to continue celebrating the craft. Good music, positive vibes, and great skating thrives as race takes center rink.
★★★★
United Skates Movie Review on Twitter
273rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Predator
Always felt this was Arnold’s best performance. I introduced my 15 year old to this classic action sci-fi film. Some great dialogue and even better action. Plays quick but not as intense as I remember as a kid. Nonetheless, still super fun 80’s flick.
★★★★
Predator Movie Review on Twitter
274th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Sixth Sense
Introduced my son to this and he figured it all out from the jump. Seriously 10 minutes in.
I can’t help but recall when I first saw it in the theaters, knowing nothing of any secret and having heard no buzz. I was floored by the end. A real “holy crap” moment for me as someone who sees things coming in film.
Even with that, this story and the filmmaking are masterful. A legendary act behind the camera. The music and restraint shown throughout should be taught in film school. Shyamalan’s patience behind the camera is virtuosic. However, it is Toni Collette, Haley Joel Osment and Bruce Willis that give career-best, A+ performances. Awareness of the twist of not, emotional scenes abound.
★★★★★
The Sixth Sense Movie Review on Twitter
275th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Old Guard
Interesting premise about a tight-knit group of immortal warriors and the difficulty of living near forever. Charlize Theron is great as usual, as are all of the immortals, but fairly standard bad-guy tropes leaves me wanting more. A decent start to (what is obviously) a franchise-starter. Intriguing but lacking a memorable scene to have me yearning for the next one.
★★★
The Old Guard Movie Review on Twitter
276th Movie Watched in 2020:
When a Stranger Calls
Slow burn serial killer classic with one of the great opening acts in the history of thrillers. Charles Durning may play the P.I. on a mission, but it is the horrifying fear splashed across Carol Kane’s face that sells the film.
★★★
When a Stranger Calls Movie Review on Twitter
277th Movie Watched in 2020:
Desperados
A forgettable romantic comedy with some cringe-y moments and dumb gags starring Nasim Pedrad. While she was great on SNL, this level of juvenile, clichéd comedy seems below her. The bright spot, however, is Lamorne Morris. He is naturally funny and the only likable character worth rooting for.
★★
Desperados Movie Review on Twitter
278th Movie Watched in 2020:
When a Stranger Calls Back
This sequel to the serial killer classic ups the ante on the original with consistent intensity and ominous atmosphere. The villain is creepier but somehow less scary. All credit goes to Charles Durning and Carol Kane as a team to be reckoned with.
Nostalgia causes me to go 3 stars here alone.
★★★
When a Stranger Calls Back Movie Review on Twitter
279th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Long Dumb Road
More like “the long dumb movie”. But for the frantic dialogue and stream of consciousness delivery Jason Mantzoukas is known for, this movie wanders nowhere. A few funny scenes, but nary a plot to cause you to care for anyone.
★
The Long Dumb Road Movie Review on Twitter
280th Movie Watched in 2020:
Sgt. Bilko
Steve Martin is his typically adorable whip-smart manchild in this screwball 90’s comedy. Based on a sitcom from the 50’s, the military con artist set up has some quality laughs and one-liners, but it mostly makes me remember how good Phil Hartman was. He is missed.
★★½
Sgt. Bilko Movie Review on Twitter
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281st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Fifth Element
Some of the more memorable characters from 90’s films sprung from this inventive futuristic yarn.
Milla Jovovich (as Lelu – the perfect being) dazzles between playful to passionate.
Bruce Willis (Korben Dallas) puts in extra effort as an action hero with more heart than one-liners.
Ian Holm and Chris Tucker steal scenes throughout the film with their exasperated deliveries.
Lastly, Luc Besson directing smarty makes this play more like a comic book story than a sci-fi flick.
★★★★
The Fifth Element Movie Review on Twitter
282nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Fatal Affair
Netflix’s newest original offering is completely unoriginal. Predictable stalker fare filled with clichés. Characters have the poorest instincts in stressful situations possible. Omar Epps is usually great, but he’s caught in this mess of a film, leaving him with little to do.
★
Fatal Affair Movie Review on Twitter
283rd Movie Watched in 2020:
30 Nights of Paranormal Activity with the Devil Inside the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
I’m not saying it’s the unfunniest spoof I’ve ever seen, but this parody of horror movies (and a hodge podge of other films) makes me want to take a dump on the screen of the producers’ home televisions as payback.
½
30 Nights of Paranormal Activity with the Devil… Movie Review on Twitter
284th Movie Watched in 2020:
Forsaken
I’m a sucker for a good western and this fits. Very reminiscent of Open Range as all actions from unlawful powers in a small town climax in a showdown with a reluctant, gunslinging protagonist. Kiefer plays it well. I always felt Kiefer Sutherland is an underrated actor, despite his reliance on being typecast as stalwart while his anger bubbles to the top. Donald Sutherland maintains his revered stoicism, and some quality turns from well-recognized supporting cast.
★★★
Forsaken Movie Review on Twitter
285th Movie Watched in 2020:
October Sky
An uplifting true story about 4 teens in a West Virginia coal mining town defying the odds by reaching for the stars. Inspirational both for watching big dreams achieved in unlikely places and in seeing a father and son relationship blossom into one of respect.
★★★★
October Sky Movie Review on Twitter
286th Movie Watched in 2020:
Last Christmas
It is necessary to celebrate the film’s supporting actress – Emma Thompson, who is an absolute treasure, and she steals every scene. Moving on, this is a heartwarming movie that takes appreciated liberties with the romance genre for all the right reasons.
★★★
Last Christmas Movie Review on Twitter
287th Movie Watched in 2020:
What’s Your Number?
I had low expectations going into this rom-com, but was pleasantly surprised with some scenes that caused belly laughs. Anna Faris, while not the best actress, does have comedic chops. Chris Evans shows up playing a stereotype, and a litany of other A-B listers have to play it straight as Anna’s former suitors. Follows the crass romantic comedy formula FWIW.
★★½
What’s Your Number? Movie review on Twitter
288th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Little Rascals
Adapted from the serials of the 1930’s, the little rascals are back with their “girls are gross” motto. Not well-made with some poor line readings, but it’s faithful to the source material. Age appropriate and stayed away from much of the racism built into the original. In the end, quite approachable as kid-friendly fare that children will enjoy.
★★½
The Little Rascals Movie Review on Twitter
289th Movie Watched in 2020:
Back to the Future Part II
Man alive, if the future in this sequel was to be 2015, we really got screwed with the limited progress our world has made.
Zemeckis plays a long game of overlapping plots by playing fast and lose with their time-traveling DeLorean. Marty McFly and Dr. Emmett Brown are game for the excitement, but the 3 Biffs steal the show of this madcap sequel.
★★★½
Back to the Future Part II Movie Review on Twitter
290th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Endless
Creative premise for a low-budget sci-fi film that is smart to leave much to the imagination, and be minimal on the effects. Better at building uneasiness than tension. Filled with inventive scenes that are gratifyingly better than the less impressive sum of its parts.
★★
The Endless Movie Review on Twitter
291st Movie Watched in 2020:
Back to the Future Part III
A delightful and exciting wrap up to the classic time-travel trilogy. Each one of the actors deserves credit for playing multiple versions of themselves, and specifically to Zemeckis for crafting such a fun timeless adventure.
★★★★
Back to the Future Part III Movie Review on Twitter
292nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Polar
Falling into the usual “hitman better than all others, but with a heart” stereotype, this Mads Mikkelsen-led action flick is a step above with stylized filmmaking. Doesn’t break any molds, but filled with a solid action sequences, gratuitous violence, a little sex, and a few laughs.
★★★
Polar Movie Review on Twitter
293rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Twins
Warning: Unpopular opinion at the end.
This Ivan Reitman-directed 80’s comedy may be remembered more for its cheesiness factor, but I still smiled a bunch. #1: Danny Devito is a national treasure. #2: I don’t know of any movie where Arnold seems to be having more fun as an actor. As a matter of fact, its the chemistry among the actors that made this work, and ridiculous storyline aside, that is what was so endearing. If only Kelly Preston were alive, this movie deserves a long-awaited sequel. There, I said it.
★★★
Twins Movie Review on Twitter
294th Movie Watched in 2020:
Ip Man 4: The Finale
I love a good martial arts movie, and this also tackles the anti-Chinese sentiment of the time as Bruce Lee’s Kung fu master, Ip Man, heads to San Francisco in this quadrilogy’s finale. Filmed in a throwback style with more street fighting, it ends in a suitable climax with feeling.
★★★
Ip Man 4 Movie Review on Twitter
295th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Sandlot
Quite simply, a top 10 favorite film of mine. It may be set in 1962, but the purity of childhood summer, friendship, and baseball is universal and timeless. Brilliantly cast with a humorous script that is family-friendly only adds to its recognition as an ageless classic. Introduced my 9 year old to it today, and even if it is the 20th plus time I’ve seen it, it gets better each viewing. And one last comment… the soundtrack rocks and I’ve never been able to find it.
★★★★★
The Sandlot Movie Review on Twitter
296th Movie Watched in 2020:
Kung Fu Panda
One of my favorite animated films ever. Perfectly cast voice work coupled with a fun action style martial arts themed movie. Very slick animation work, and a feel-good underdog tale. Doesn’t get much better.
★★★★★
Kung Fu Panda Movie Review on Twitter
297th Movie Watched in 2020:
Becky
This teenage girl has some deep-seeded emotional issues, but doggone it, that level of violent psychosis is fun to watch. She is the best part of this brutal bloodbath. Kevin James as the leader of the neo-nazi, prison-breaking baddies never seems scary though.
★★★
Becky Movie Review on Twitter
298th Movie Watched in 2020:
Kung Fu Panda 2
Po & the Furious Five are back to discover inner peace and battle a war-mongering peacock in this admirable sequel. In the original he recognized his destiny and uniqueness in life, but the theme here is about teaching oneself how to overcome childhood trauma. Great action, comedy, and heart once again.
★★★★
Kung Fu Panda 2 Movie Review on Twitter
299th Movie Watched in 2020:
We Bought a Zoo
So Matt Damon bought a zoo. Cameron Crowe plays it achingly safe directing this by-the-book story with an overly agreeable cast. Does its best to push sentimentality, and while it is decent enough because the story is true, it lacks heart. Hard not to like it, but easy not to be impressed by it.
★★½
We Bought a Zoo Movie Review on Twitter
300th Movie Watched in 2020:
Ip Man 3
Watching this martial arts franchise backwards, and it still works. Ip Man is a likable, humble badass, but he could do himself a favor by speaking up a bit more. Decent choreography with minor wire-work, but scenes with his wife fell flat.
★★½
Ip Man 3 Movie Review on Twitter
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301st Movie Watched in 2020:
After Truth: Disinformation and the Cost of Fake News
A maddening documentary about the rising phenomenon of fake news and the corrupt politically-motivated pundits purposefully fabricating misinformation to fool the average voter. A growing cancer in our nation. Why the Senate refuses to pass voter legislation is proof positive they want to infect the public with whatever incorrect beliefs they can to win them elections. Shameful.
★★★
After Truth: Disinformation and the Cost of Fake News Review on Twitter
302nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Minority Report
Spielberg is amazing.
Cruise is excellent.
Futurism is awesome.
Action is tremendous.
Murder mysteries thrill.
Technology rocks.
Only way this isn’t a 5-star perfect film is i because was so busy taking it all in and keeping up with the plot development that I never got as emotionally invested as I wanted to.
★★★★½
Minority Report Movie Review on Twitter
303rd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Good Liar
I’m quite fond of films like this.
A deliberate, sophisticated, adult yarn about a con man who has spent his life doing wrong and the woman he sets his sights on. Somewhat predictable, but only to a point. Mirren and McKellen prove they deserve gold in their golden years.
★★★
The Good Liar Movie Review on Twitter
304th Movie Watched in 2020:
Cowboys & Aliens
You ever watch a movie that is EXACTLY what you expect it to be? That’s this. Producers may call this is a “genre mash-up” but it could have just as easily been thought up by an elementary school kid. Film looks great, as does the creature work, but it simply doesn’t entertain. It doesn’t come together into anything you care about.
★★
Cowboys & Aliens Movie Review on Twitter
305th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Karate Kid
To me, this is more than a sports film.
More than an underdog story.
More than an absolute 80’s classic.
I’ve felt this is powerful. Iconic.
And now, after introducing my 15 year to it, he feels the same. This movie means a lot to me, still remembering how I felt watching it in the theater as a kid.
It teaches life lessons and perseverance. Focus and balance. Always to get back up.
RIP Pat Morita
★★★★½
The Karate Kid Movie Review on Twitter
306th Movie Watched in 2020:
Better Watch Out
An unconventional, slightly gonzo home break-in/kidnapping dark comedy thriller set around Christmas with all the festivities yet not enough spirit. A criminally zany performance by one actor brings cheer, but the rest is apathetic.
★★½
Better Watch Out Movie Review on Twitter
307th Movie Watched in 2020:
Kung Fu Panda 3
It’s two predecessors were great and yet somehow this 3rd movie fell of a cliff in quality of script. Just boring. All of the core characters became agonizingly unfunny, and the climax was weak. I expected much better. I’ll give it two stars because of the solid animation, but everything else felt rushed.
★★
Kung Fu Panda 3 Movie Review on Twitter
308th Movie Watched in 2020:
How Do You Know?
Pros:
Jack Nicholson has been underwhelming in most of his roles the last decade or more but he’s better here.
A scene in a hospital room was very touching – literally was the only real high point in the film.
They cast the most likable actors possible (minus Owen Wilson, who continues to be nails on a chalkboard for me).
Cons:
Discombobulated storytelling throughout.
For a romantic comedy, it has the least amount of chemistry I can recall.
★★
How Do You Know? Movie Review on Twitter
309th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Karate Kid Part II
Mr. Miyagi and Danielson are back and this time they’re delivering karate justice to Okinawa. I’ll spend this review giving credit to Ralph Macchio who really was a good, natural actor as well as Pat Morita who showed tremendous acting range and heart.
★★★½
The Karate Kid Part II Movie Review on Twitter
310th Movie Watched in 2020:
Swiped
DON’T BLAME ME! MY WIFE’S CHOICE. I should have checked here first!
Easily one of the worst movies watched this year. Proof Netflix will put anything on their platform. This is the most contrived concept clearly written by a misogynist with unlikeable narcissist characters, unbearable script, terrible acting, brutal execution. I hate myself for letting my wife overrule me into watching this.
½
Swiped Movie Review on Twitter
311th Movie Watched in 2020:
Late Night
As a teenager when asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, my answer was always “Late Night Talk Show Host”. So being a fanboy of late night TV, I had high hopes for this Amazon Original. While Emma Thompson is always amazing, I expected better much better writing (and more humor) w/ Mindy Kahling at the helm.
★★
Late Night Movie Review on Twitter
312th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Speed Cubers
As a dad of 2 boys on the autism spectrum, this documentary about two teenagers (one gifted and one gifted with autism) hit me in the feels more than I’m sure was intended. Truly demonstrates the power of friendship and acceptance between two amazing people in the competitive world of Rubik Cube. Feliks is an incredible ambassador to the game and shows how important (and fulfilling) being a role model can be. And Max as the prodigy is an easy champion to root for. If only everyone cared so deeply about each other as these two. It’s not about a Rubik Cube – it’s about dealing with all the puzzles the world throws at us.
★★★★½
The Speed Cubers Movie Review on Twitter
313th Movie Watched in 2020:
Three Fugitives
I recall liking this when I saw in the theaters 30+ years ago, but time hasn’t been kind to it. Slower moving and not near as funny as I remember. Definitely not as food than it should have been given the great Martin Short and angry Nick Nolte, but it just didn’t hold up. (Pun intended)
★★
Three Fugitives Movie Review on Twitter
314th Movie Watched in 2020:
Mr. Holmes
A low-key yet meticulous yarn about the world’s greatest detective as he seeks to recount the case that ended his career. Ian McKellen gracefully portrays Sherlock’s struggle with a slipping memory in his old age while still trying to solve life’s puzzles in retirement.
★★★
Mr. Holmes Movie Review on Twitter
315th Movie Watched in 2020:
Captive State
This may position itself as an alien invasion movie, but deftly restructures itself into an allegory about insurgents fighting back against a totalitarian regime. Dawdles a bit early on, but picks up steam toward a photo finish. Smarter than the trailer likely suggests.
★★★
Captive State Movie Review on Twitter
316th Movie Watched in 2020:
Catch Me If You Can
From the retro opening credits to the perfect score, from the touchstone direction to excellent performance, this true tale about conman Frank Abagnale Jr hits all the right marks. A fun, whirlwind story by the best in Hollywood.
★★★★½
Catch Me If You Can Movie Review on Twitter
317th Movie Watched in 2020:
Acts of Violence
What happened to Bruce Willis?
Why must Bruce say yes to every second rate action movie he’s asked to be in? This is a run-of-the-mill human trafficking flick where good guys (miraculously with top-shelf military background) aim to rescue a kidnapped family member. it’s a second-rate Taken. Only highlight (and something I never expected to write)… Cole Hauser steals the movie. He’s the best part about it.
★★
Acts of Violence Review on Twitter
318th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Terminator
It reinvented science fiction with consistent action and effects (for the time), making this 80’s flick a classic spawning a franchise. The scene-stealing wrecking ball that is the T800 (Arnold) is only outdone by an ingenious (for its time) plot. While the effects later in the film didn’t hold up, the movie overall is better than I remembered.
★★★½
The Terminator Movie Review on Twitter
(So I’ve not done the best job posting reviews for some of the movies i’ve watched the last month, so here are a handful I either watched slowly in pieces over time, posted the review on my company’s Twitter account and subsequently deleted, or just forgot to log.)
319th Movie Watched in 2020:
Weird Science
A classic John Hughes film where he veers into the silly science fiction set-up of horny high-schoolers. Jokes are rapid fire and some extremely memorable lines. I forgot how not-exactly-safe-for-kids this was, but worth the re-watch.
★★★
320th Movie Watched in 2020:
Aladdin
Easily a top-5 all-time Disney movie, thanks to the music, the pop culture-riffs, and the unbeatable performance by the late Robin Williams. No one could ever do this better. His manic energy propels this animated film to something so much greater.
★★★★½
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321st Movie Watched in 2020:
What Dreams May Come
In the midst of a Robin Williams-fest. I know much was made of the special effects-turned-scenery of the after-life for this film, but it always felt plastic to me. If the environment is made to look surreal, how do they expect the emotions to be real. Heavy-handed. Laid it on too think and had a more-than-predictable reveal that rang hollow to me.
★½
322nd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Fisher King
This has everything – comedy, tragedy, drama, fantasy, and most specifically, promise. I remember seeing this in the theater when I was young and anticipated it to be so much better than it ended up being. Solid performances by Bridges and Williams, but fell short of being near as good as it should have been.
★★★
323rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Drugs, Inc.
I had to wonder how the National Geographic camera crews even got around to contacting the drug dealers, drug lords, and drug makers to get this documentary footage. The muffled voices make it seem a bit phony, even if it isn’t. Sure, drugs are bad, and the lifestyle is equally hardened, but this doc plays it too safe considering the proximity to crime.
★★
324th Movie Watched in 2020:
City Heat
I think I was turning 9 or 10 years old when, for my birthday party with friends, we were taken to see this in the theater. Yes, if there was anything 10-year olds like watching is two aging (even then) action stars star in an old cops-and-P.I.s-and-mobsters period piece. So 35 years later, how does it hold up? Pretty lackluster. If it weren’t for Eastwood’s moxie and Reynold’s charm, this would have been a real let-down, but they make it passable.
★★
325th Movie Watched in 2020:
Tough Guys
I had to remind myself what tough guy actors of the golden age were like, and Lancaster and Douglas are at the top of their game in this train-robbery flick. Some hilarious gags about age slowing you down and virility doing its best to stay prevalent. But the two exude charisma which makes this a straight-forward, likable PG-movie.
★★★½
326th Movie Watched in 2020:
A Fairly Odd Summer
Based on the brazenly funny kids cartoon on Nickelodeon, this live action feature film fails dramatically. First off, how do you cast an excitable cartoon elementary school kid with a 20-something playing the childlike role. While the actor playing the role of the father NAILS the voice, I was more that disappointed with the rest of the casting. Can’t get near the source material.
★
327th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Great Hack
Facebook is put on watch with their back-handed Cambridge Analytica engagement, and as much as this doc takes a deep-dive into the scandal, and emphasize the potential (growing) impact this has in our society, it still doesn’t paint the social media giant as the evil villain it truly was. The whistleblower needed a much larger megaphone to make this disturbing truth hit home. Just seems much more dangerous now than it even did then, considering what has transpired with “viral videos” and misinformation.
★★★½
328th Movie Watched in 2020:
7500
One of the better hijacking films I’ve seen. While it doesn’t have the excitement of a United 93 or Captain Phillips, it is certainly tense. What makes it stand out is it’s realism (through acting) of coping with fear, despair and injury.
★★★
7500 Movie Review on Twitter (another one reviewed out of order)
329th Movie Watched in 2020:
Good People
Good People? Dumb movie. James Franco is either hit or miss in his acting roles, and this is a miss, while Kate Hudson is never in danger of being considered talented. At least Tom Wilkinson is sturdy in this overly basic crime-drugs-money trash heap.
★½
Good People Movie Review on Twitter
330th Movie Watched in 2020:
Sextuplets
It’s hard to review a comedy made for the sole purpose of being “stupid silly”. As stereotypical and idiotic it is, I’ll admit I laughed. Marlon Wayans playing every role in his family made me appreciate his manic energy, but I can’t say it’s a quality film (beyond make-up).
★½
Sextuplets Movie Review on Twitter
331st Movie Watched in 2020:
Terminator 2: Judgment Day
One of the few instances where the sequel bests its predecessor. James Cameron got the most out of his cast in an epic special-effects-laden action behemoth. He set the bar high. Hamilton, Patrick, and Schwarzenegger soar. Would be a perfect, five star, wrap-up movie if not for the whiner Edward Furlong playing 10 year old! On a dirt bike. With a curse mouth. Robbing ATMs. Trash casting. But everything else about this is a showpiece spectacle.
★★★★½
Terminator 2: Judgment Day Movie Review on Twitter
332nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Outbreak
A prescient tale about a deadly virus, the scientists doing their best to fight it, the government fighting to cover it up, and the citizens determined to disregard safety precautions. Dustin Hoffman crushes his role as a noble virologist.
★★★½
Outbreak Movie Review on Twitter
333rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Bad Boys for Life
Sure, this new installment didn’t need to be made. It still gives you exactly what you want and expect from a Bad Boys movie, though. The action is fairly unrealistic considering they’re 50 year olds. They did their best to once again make the storyline not close to home, but didn’t have the excitement of past films. Like the last couple in the franchise, Martin Lawrence is the main reason to watch.
★★★
Bad Boys for Life Movie Review on Twitter
334th Movie Watched in 2020:
Forrest Gump
Introduced my kids to this saccharine sweet and sympathetic story about one lovingly diligent man overcoming his handicap, his lot in life, and the broken apple of his eye. So much too love about its execution, story and performances, but some weak points also. Still – should be required viewing as it incorporates American history, pop culture, and a solid soundtrack into its prose.
★★★★
Forrest Gump Movie Review on Twitter
335th Movie Watched in 2020:
Final Girl
I get a weird enjoyment from movies where women turn the tables on violent, abusive men by giving them a taste of their own medicine, so for that sole purpose, this film meets those standards. Nothing else particularly worth noting. Acting wasn’t strong. Unimpressive storyline and limited character motivation.
★½
Final Girl Movie Review on Twitter
336th Movie Watched in 2020:
Delirium
When a movie keeps you guessing as to what is real and what isn’t, it’s done an adequate job. This above-average psychological thriller’s positives outweigh the negatives, with a gut-wrenching surprise along the way. Topher Grace remains underrated.
★★★
Delirium Movie Review on Twitter
337th Movie Watched in 2020:
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark
Only one step up from a Goosebumps tale, but with none of the fun. Young adult actors tried their best but the “creatures” were pretty unsatisfying. All in all, I see scarier things on presidential press conferences.
★★
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark Movie Review on Twitter
338th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Resident
My wife would watch Jeffrey Dean Morgan read the phone book. Even I think he’s one of the more charismatic actors working, and Hillary Swank usually holds her own. But they can’t save this throwaway, predictable, humdrum, stalker flick.
★½
The Resident Movie Review on Twitter
339th Movie Watched in 2020:
Mortal Kombat
Not the worst movie made from a video game, but it’s at least a contender. Cartoonish violence, over-the-top martial arts, terrible script, and lousy special effects for the 90’s, only saved by Christopher Lambert’s voice and great theme music.
★
Mortal Kombat Movie Review on Twitter
340th Movie Watched in 2020:
Countdown
This horror film is well made, but too predictable to be scary. A conventional storyline where a mobile app tells you when you’re going to die. You can see the attempted jump scares coming by a mile, but thankfully Tom Segura shows up to steal scenes.
★★
Countdown Movie Review on Twitter
Like our movie reviews? Now review your sales team.
341st Movie Watched in 2020:
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
So many indelible moments:
Matthew Broderick’s magnetic performance
4th wall breaking
The phone pranks
The art museum
The parade float musical
The Ferrari’s last run
Never has the city of Chicago or playing hooky looked so fun.
RIP John Hughes
★★★★½
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off Movie Review on Twitter
342nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Manhattan Night
A good film noir is hard to come by. This adequately mixes intrigue, death, sex and characters consumed with self preservation into the investigative mix. Adrien Brody isn’t pushed here, but still has chops and Strahovski is stunning. Doesn’t break the mold in the storytelling, and you won’t be invested in the mystery’s outcome, but it’s still a welcome addition to the genre.
★★★
Manhattan Night Movie Review on Twitter
343rd Movie Watched in 2020:
A.I. Artificial Intelligence
I have more admiration for this film now, 20 years later on my 2nd viewing, vs. when I saw it initially in the theater. Jude Law and Haley Joel Osment deliver more heart as robots than human actors typically are able. Spielberg’s beautifully crafted story about love, ethics, dreams, and technology is heartbreaking.
★★★★
A.I. Artificial Intelligence Movie Review on Twitter
344th Movie Watched in 2020:
10×10
Anyone can tell the plot of this violent kidnapping thriller will be more about character motivation and a changing of who has the upper hand. Reasonably good acting, but unrealistic decision-making frustrated me. Plus, it left too much unresolved.
★★
10×10 Movie Review on Twitter
345th Movie Watched in 2020:
Liar Liar
Carrey gives a balls-to-the-wall, all-in, tour de force comedic performance. Reckless over-the-top acting and ridiculously physical slapstick humor keep the hilarity humming in this classic 90’s comedy about a lawyer-father who can’t lie.
★★★½
Liar Liar Movie Review on Twitter
346th Movie Watched in 2020:
Little Monsters
Oh my word, I’m in love with this movie. Such a fun, fresh, original concept for this hilarious dark comedy. The three main actors are stellar. Lupita Nyong’o is becoming one of my fave actresses, Alexander England is wonderful, and Josh Gad is priceless. A Must Watch!
EDIT: I’ve watched this 3 times. One of my favorites of the year.
★★★★½
Little Monsters Movie Review on Twitter
347th Movie Watched in 2020:
Delivered
This Hulu original is not without its pluses but in most ways it is a carbon copy of Misery for pregnant people. It doesn’t have the same “manic Kathy Bates energy” but then again what does? You’ll get frustrated at times, and you can’t help but wonder why someone isn’t doing more to protect themselves and their child.
★★
Delivered Movie Review on Twitter
348th Movie Watched in 2020:
Jexi
This not-entirely-unfunny, yet poorly-constructed romantic comedy vehicle for Adam Devine forces him to ham it up rather than wistfully win us over. That’s the script’s fault. The result is his mobile phone’s controlling AI being far too predictable, and not as near menacing. The film lunges for cheap sexual gags without exploring any real relationship.
★½
Jexi Movie Review on Twitter
349th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Shawshank Redemption
This film stands the test of time
It will forever be in my Top 5
It’s moving… compelling… beautifully crafted from script to final cut.
The patience behind the camera Frank Darabont shows is admirable.
Tim Robbins’ Andy Dufrane is the heart of the film, and Morgan Freeman’s Red is the soul. A true classic.
★★★★★
The Shawshank Redemption Movie Review on Twitter
350th Movie Watched in 2020:
Project Power
Netflix’s newest big budget release is a bit of a mess, but an entertaining one at least. It doesn’t know if it wants to be an urban sci-fi action flick about superpowers or a cop vs criminal drug thriller. Joseph Gordon Levitt phoned it in a bit throughout the far-fetched plot-hole-riddled story, but Foxx is electric as usual.
★★½
Project Power Movie Review on Twitter
What is your TaskTeacher grade? Find out now.
351st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Lost Husband
Only slightly better produced then an agonizingly uneventful Hallmark movie, this “romance” is entirely undone by a painful, clichéd script. (Never thought I’d write this next sentence but) Credit only goes to Josh Duhamel who delivers a down-to-Earth performance with honest acting throughout and a touching scene at a dance. The rest of the film is tedious.
★
The Lost Husband Movie Review on Twitter
352nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Die Hard 2
Any John McClane movie is better than the average action movie. This sequel only falters because it tries to follow the original’s formula of too closely. This villain lacks panache, and Willis the biting dialogue, to make this a classic. He keeps his bonafides, but the airport setting and set-up can’t duplicate the perfect concept of the first.
★★★
Die Hard 2 Movie Review on Twitter
353rd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Postcard Killings
I’ll watch any James Patterson novel-turned-movie, especially when the lead detective is played by the charismatic Jeffrey Dean Morgan as he chases his daughter’s killer through Europe. Solid (not sensational) finished product.
Will be disappointed if they don’t keep this character’s franchise going.
★★★
The Postcard Killings Movie Review on Twitter
354th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Lodge
One of the better “chilling” movies I’ve seen this year.
I had an inkling which direction this psychological thriller/horror film would go from the outset, but it gave me an even better outcome than anticipated. Realistic, troubled acting by all in the cast. A few great shocking moments and an eerie, unsettling atmosphere add to this gem.
★★★★
The Lodge Movie Review on Twitter
355th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Brady Bunch Movie
Marsha Marsha Marsha
The choice to plant the ultimate family of the 70’s, with all of their style and wholesome tendencies, into a 90’s world works wonders for this comedy. And the script finds (without demeaning) the purity of the family’s belief systems. Casting is spot-on, as are the tongue-in-cheek comments and twisted bits.
★★★
The Brady Bunch Movie Review on Twitter
356th Movie Watched in 2020:
Stranger Than Fiction
Will Ferrell is (thankfully) subdued as an IRS agent having an existential experience in this (smart but not humorous) piece of meta fiction. Will finally plays it low-key and lets the concept speak for itself, without ruining it with over-the-top antics. Emma Thompson is her normal self as a slightly neurotic writer. Sweet story, but the mild romance lacks chemistry. Decent movie but too timid in its pacing.
★★½
Stranger Than Fiction Movie Review on Twitter
357th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Peanut Butter Falcon
This southern fried, sweet taffy apple fable about a young man with Down syndrome and a restless wanderer is both touchingly heartfelt and joyously real. A Mark Twains-esque adventure where the chemistry and goodness prevails. So much credit goes to the three leads, and a special mention of Shia Lebeouf who finally shed the stink of the Transformers off of him (for me) and got back to being the real, lived-in actor he showed as a young man.
★★★★
The Peanut Butter Falcon Movie Review on Twitter
358th Movie Watched in 2020:
Dante’s Peak
Always felt this Pierce Brosnan-led disaster film got a bad rap, and is above average in execution. In my opinion, it is the best “volcano movie” to this day, with incredibly realistic effects, despite a lack of chemistry in the leads. It kept the excitement local, intimate, and steady.
★★★
Dante’s Peak Movie Review on Twitter
359th Movie Watched in 2020:
Palm Springs
I knew nothing of the set-up to this film going in, so I was pleasantly surprised to see the time-loop concept play out in a funny and fresh way. Each day held my attention thanks to the winsome Andy Samberg and darling Cristin Milioti.
★★★½
Palm Springs Movie Review on Twitter
360th Movie Watched in 2020:
Mom and Dad
A disturbing premise for a bloody horror film with familial bonds frustrates by answering no questions, providing no solutions, and offering no speculation as to the cause. Just a gonzo Nic Cage singing the hokey pokey with a sledgehammer while losing his grip on reality, as other careless, irredeemable actors try to keep up.
★½
Mom and Dad Movie Review on Twitter
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361st Movie Watched in 2020:
Free Solo
The last half hour of this documentary is heart-stopping. The feat by free climber Alex Honnold going rope-free on Yosemite’s El Capitan mountain cannot be overstated. They only mention Aspergers once but it clearly shapes who he is in life, and allows him the incredible focus to tackle such a monumental task.
★★★½
Free Solo Movie Review on Twitter
362nd Movie Watched in 2020:
A Very Brady Sequel
Probably one of the more divisive films out there; some considering it trash, some a gem, and others middle of the road. I fell for this sequel way back in the 90’s, and even if it’s subpar, I love it, and all the innuendos and weirdness within. The class of the cast the tongue-in-cheek jokes and call backs to the sitcom all put a smile on my face.
★★★½
A Very Brady Sequel Movie Review on Twitter
363rd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Witch
Must say, I’ve never been a fan of goats.
While not scary per se, there is an unsettling dread brewing throughout this 17th century-set horror film. The dedication to the language (via script) sells the era very well, as a family’s religious fervor is tested by their sins. Portrays a level of dedicated fanaticism to the time, and shows how mystical evil works to unwind a family.
★★★
The Witch Movie Review on Twitter
364th Movie Watched in 2020:
Serpico
They don’t make ‘em like this anymore. The patient telling of one honest cop’s battle to do his job amidst corruption in NY. A perfect Pacino performance before he started acting like Pacino. A gold badge for this slow and steady true tale.
★★★★
Serpico Movie Review on Twitter
365th Movie Watched in 2020:
Force of Nature
Well they can’t all be winners. And this, my 365th movie of the year, was a total crapfest. While Mel Gibson is always watchable, this plot has more holes than a chain link fence. Sloppy, lame violence w/ a predictable, catchpenny story. Unlike the fake hurricane throughout the movie, this film really blows.
★
Force of Nature Movie Review on Twitter
366th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Sleepover
Tease me if you want, but for a kid’s movie, this was really enjoyable. For the first time in a long time, every one of the child actors were fun to watch. Far-fetched and ridiculous? Sure, but I did laugh a lot. Some funny one-liners.
★★★
The Sleepover Movie Review on Twitter
367th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Binge
Apropos name given my movie-watching this year. This Hulu Original is sophomoric and juvenile. You can read the summary and know exactly how the entire film will unfold. First half is lazy and unfunny, but Vince Vaughn helps the 2nd act with his manic energy and delivery.
★★
The Binge Movie Review on Twitter
368th Movie Watched in 2020:
Unacknowledged
Maybe I had my sights set to high given the subject matter.
A documentary/exposé about government cover-up of evidence of UFOs and extraterrestrial life with real documentation, footage, and interviews from high ranking officials? Right up my alley. BUT poor direction and shoddy editing make this a snooze fest. Credit for all the research, for sure, but how do you make a topic so interesting so… boring?
★½
Unacknowledged Movie Review on Twitter
369th Movie Watched in 2020:
Chicken Run
Super fun, family-friendly stop-motion animated prison break movie with chickens and farmers. Somehow the creators made a wonderful world with off-the-wall characters and turned it into an action film. Approachable for young and old.
★★★½
Chicken Run Movie Review on Twitter
370th Movie Watched in 2020:
Destroyer
When a detective is on a stakeout in a car for 12+ hours, do they not eat or go to the bathroom?
On the plus side, this is a grim, gritty film with a raw and layered performance from Nicole Kidman. Emotionally stunted and understated.
★★★½
Destroyer Movie Review on Twitter
371st Movie Watched in 2020:
Motherless Brooklyn
A steady and worthy film noir written, directed, and starring the always-surprising Ed Norton. Afflicted with Tourette’s Syndrome, his energetic turn as an obsessed private eye keeps the mystery humming along. A valuable addition to the genre, with some fun turns by the other players.
★★★½
Motherless Brooklyn Movie Review on Twitter
372nd Movie Watched in 2020:
MI-5: The Greater Good
A well-intended (if a bit basic) espionage thriller that unravels satisfyingly into a quality, practical, action flick. Not crazy Mission:Impossible-level death-defying acts, but still solid action. The feet-on-the-ground simplicity in the stunts makes it even more realistic (for the better). Kit Harrington may not have Tom Cruise-level intensity, but is certainly game for this role and the spy game. Even if he comes off a bit young, he is spry in his tackling of the character and I’d watch more of him in future installments.
★★★½
MI-5: The Greater Good Movie Review on Twitter
373rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Stan and Ollie
Touching & sentimental. A beautiful story of the friendship between real-life, long time comedy partners Laurel and Hardy. This celebrates their final run where respect overcomes the inevitable struggles that business friendships endure.
★★★★
Stan and Ollie Movie Review on Twitter
374th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Visit
Chalk another one up for this underrated M. Night Shyamalan flick. He knows to put just the right amount of creepy in his films. Kid actors were great in this documentary-in-the-making set-up, only outdone by the intimate family dynamic.
★★★★
The Visit Movie Review on Twitter
375th Movie Watched in 2020:
Because of Winn-Dixie
Little known fact about me: I hate movies (or stories or comics) about dogs that straight up misbehave or ruin things. So while I’m sure this popular children’s book has charm, this movie doesn’t. Poorly constructed and edited. While I like seeing Dave Matthews in a role, and Jeff Daniels did alright, the rest of the actors were really unimpressive.
★
Because of Winn-Dixie Movie Review on Twitter
376th Movie Watched in 2020:
A Prayer Before Dawn
I’m not tough enough to survive prison, let alone the toughest one in Thailand. This true-life tale of a drug addict/pugilist losing his freedom but redeeming his soul through boxing is visceral, sweaty, nasty, and in-your-face. Without being able to speak almost any of the language other than brutality, this brutal place (and claustrophobic fight scenes) show the spirit that can overtake rock bottom. Very little dialogue at all, and no triumphant sports moments here. Just grit and grind.
★★½
A Prayer Before Dawn Movie Review on Twitter
377th Movie Watched in 2020:
Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween
My kids love this franchise, so that causes me to like it more. I’m a fan of this brand of special-effects-laden, kid-friendly macabre mayhem. Totally approachable, well-done and non-threatening monster-themed fun. A great way to indoctrinate children into “scary movies”.
★★★
Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween Movie Review on Twitter
378th Movie Watched in 2020:
Behind You
A conventional evil spirit movie that follows all the tropes and offers zero quality scares. You can see every jump coming a mile away, and the cast has no believability. Another scary movie where all the players suck at communicating. Is it so hard to stick together in haunted houses? Is it that difficult to speak up and tell people what to look out for? Again, just frustrating character motivation all around.
★
Behind You Movie Review on Twitter
379th Movie Watched in 2020:
Operation: Endgame
Unfunny and unnecessary. The best I could say is “almost passable”. Such a great comedic cast should make me laugh, but barely cracked a smile. Couple of mildly entertaining one-liners at most. Who greenlit this dreck?
★
Operation: Endgame Movie Review on Twitter
380th Movie Watched in 2020:
Good Boy
Hulu’s dark comedy gets zero marks for horror. but a fist bump for its ridiculously corny premise. A down-on-her-luck middle aged single woman seeking companionship (the underrated Judy Greer) finds love in an emotional support dog with a taste for killing.
★★
Good Boy Movie Review on Twitter
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(I messed up my count and am adding in a few Limited Series I watched on Netflix that, based on their run-time, will more than make up for the movies I didn’t watch during this missed count.)
The Last Dance (limited series on ESPN and Netflix)
As a former Chicagoan and lifelong Bulls fan, it was great to relive the dynasty that was the 90’s team. I remember every shot they replayed. I recalled where I was watching the games and last minute baskets. I relived all the inner turmoil the team was experiencing that we were reading about in the paper and listening to on sports radio.
Hearing the team members’ takes on the games, competition and controversy was interesting also. Now, as a fan of documentaries, whether or not this was an uncompromising, insightful look at the team dynamics, I can’t say it is. I would have liked to hear more of other Bulls players’ opinions, along with more regarding the role financials played in some decisions. You can tell the celebrated Michael as they should have, but there was more they could have dug into. Nonetheless, this was fun for any Bulls fan to watch. While it isn’t an unflinching look at the turmoil that winning can bring, but a testament to the process, it is still an exciting story about the greatest franchise in the game and greatest player of all time. Michael Jordan’s contribution to, not just basketball and sports, but culturally, cannot be overlooked.
★★★½
The Queen’s Gambit (limited series on Netflix)
The directing, set pieces, and editing all create a very well-crafted story of chess, empowerment, expertise, and addiction. Anya Taylor-Joy puts on a clinic, not just on her perfect chess moves, but her incredible acting technique as well. The side characters, while initially obstacles, turn to be sources of interest, all helping further the series along to the inevitable showdown with the Russians. A slow-burn, meticulous yarn that weaves familial strife, drugs, competitiveness, and exceptionalism. My biggest complaint is that it had to end.
★★★★½
Unbelievable (limited series on Netflix)
I’m a big fan of true crime stories, and this series is exceptional, despite being about a topic as gut-wrenching as a serial rapist and the search to find him. Frustration sets in when the first victim the story begins with has her claims of rape not believed, both by those closest to her, and the law enforcement. Anger-inducing. To see the case against the perpetrator fall apart before it even starts, only to be picked up later by two strong female detectives and slowly unfold kept me riveted the entire time. While Toni Collette is great as the beer-drinking, hard-charging detective, it is Merritt Wever who absolutely steals the entire series as the heart-on-her-sleeve, religious do-gooder detective. The camaraderie between these two detectives is compelling, and each step closer to solving the case gets you more emotionally invested. Merritt Wever (along with her great turn in the series Run this year) is one of the most natural, real actresses working today.
★★★★
391st Movie Watched in 2020:
A Good Marriage
Surprisingly dull for a Stephen King adaptation. Joan Allen is always good but this “thriller” is boring, dealing with nothing more than inner turmoil. A conversation at the end intrigues, but the rest falls flat. Lagging script with essentially no real action.
★
A Good Marriage Movie Review on Twitter
392nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Trolls World Tour
Anybody else see the plot similarities between this animated sequel and Avengers Infinity War? Just me? One weak musical medley after another, without leveraging any of the voice talent in the cast, and no heart in the script.
★★
Trolls World Tour Movie Review on Twitter
393rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Love, Guaranteed
One of those movies whose cast is too cute & likable to not enjoy. Is it a cheesy, sappy, and predictable rom-com? Sure, but you’ll like it throughout. I’d admittedly watch Heather Graham in anything regardless. And Rachel Lee Cook as an do-gooder, independent attorney and Damon Wayans Jr as the honest bachelor looking for love keep the banter light and airy. Extra credit for it being PG and not needing to make it overly sexualized like most films of that genre nowadays.
★★★
Love, Guaranteed Movie Review on Twitter
394th Movie Watched in 2020:
#Alive
When it comes to zombie films, Korea knows how to make ‘em. With that said, Train to Busan is superior to #Alive. The zombies here are far more menacing, but the lead actor is way too underwritten. Still, decent enough addition to the genre.
★★½
#Alive Movie Review on Twitter
395th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Babysitter
For a campy dark comedy slasher, McG made this more fun than I expected. Funny, yet stereotypical, murdering high schoolers vs a 12 year old protagonist? Great. Enjoyed the stylized directing and the twisted foreshadowing employed.
★★★½
The Babysitter Movie Review on Twitter
396th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Babysitter: Killer Queen
Despite the heavy-handed gore and continuity errors, the sequel delivers gratifying call-backs and hilarious moments. Each protagonist and antagonist was given worthy time to shine. Junk food entertainment for the soul.
Also, did anyone catch the obvious homage to the 80’s classic, The Sure Thing?
★★★
The Babysitter: Killer Queen Movie Review on Twitter
397th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Oath
Meant to be a dark comedy, but Ike Barinholtz honestly wrote and directed a prescient cautionary tale about governmental (and presidential) overreach, as well as the blind nationalistic followers that push forth an unconstitutional agenda. It plays it close to home, but truthfully got me angry at how possible it all is. (Love me some Ike Barinholtz btw)
★★★
The Oath Movie Review on Twitter
398th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Cleanse
An unconventional (read: weird) movie, heavy on metaphor, of a retreat where people’s problems/emotions/insecurities manifest themselves into something else. Not much character depth. Deserved another scene at the end bring it together.
★★
The Cleanse Movie Review on Twitter
399th Movie Watched in 2020:
Star Wars: The Force Awakens
1st time I saw this, I was overwhelmed.
2nd time I saw this, I was impressed.
3rd time I saw this, I appreciated the craftsmanship.
This 4th time, I feel it’s starting to lose its emotional pull. Seems overly formulated.
★★★★
Star Wars: The Force Awakens Movie Review on Twitter
400th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Paramedic
What a lousy paramedic.
Pretty poorly named film too if you’re expecting anything about EMTs. Can you call something a thriller if it has zero thrills? Boring and uneventful, with characters you care very little about. This movie is the ventilator of Netflix films.
★
The Parademic Movie Review on Twitter
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401st Movie Watched in 2020:
1BR
To me, living in a 1BR apartment with neighbors who want to be my friend is already my version of hell. But here they ramp up the horror with sadomasochism and psychological torture as well. Decent acting in a frustratingly claustrophobic set-up. Good enough movie to keep me engaged.
★★½
1BR Movie Review on Twitter
402nd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Devil All the Time
I’ll get some hate here, but this film is everything “No Country For Old Men” should have been, but wasn’t. An intertwined southern tale where bad people are evil, people presenting themselves as good aren’t, and good people needing to do bad things to silence them all.
Excellent script and narration. Wonderful directing by Campos. Tom Holland was a surprise, and even Pattinson was electric.
★★★★
The Devil All the Time Movie Review on Twitter
403rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Night Hunter
Henry Cavill plays one of those detectives that seems to do all his sleuthing alone. Why always put yourself in dangerous situations with no back-up, I don’t know. Nonetheless, it has a good cast with not near enough to do given the talent level, but enough action and intrigue to grip you and keep you guessing.
★★½
Night Hunter Movie Review on Twitter
404th Movie Watched in 2020:
Labyrinth
“I ask fo so little. Just fear me, love me, do as I say and I will be your slave.”
Let’s hear it for the ultra-trippy masquerade ball along with Bowie’s make-up, wig, costumes, and general eccentricities.
This movie gets weirded the older I get.
★★★
Labyrinth Movie Review on Twitter
405th Movie Watched in 2020:
Regression
Ethan Hawke continues to be an underrated actor but he is underserved here by an achingly slow pace, uninteresting story, and low stakes. It’s one of those flicks that is so generic for the genre, my wife thought we’d watched it before, yet hadn’t.
★½
Regression Movie Review on Twitter
406th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Farewell
A slow and subtle Chinese film starting Awkwafina who wisely downplays her comedic impulses to be real and in-the-moment. Both a sweet and sad take on a Chinese family’s struggle to lie, grieve, and commune.
★★★
The Farewell Movie Review on Twitter
407th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Social Dilemma
“When people stop believing what is fact… we’re toast.” A relevant, eye-opening documentary exploring the many ways social media platforms are using to control people’s time and belief systems. Frightening and urgent.
And the sheer volume of true tech experts they got to participate in this should make everyone stand up and take notice, or we’ll all live in an even more egregious state or manipulation.
★★★½
The Social Dilemma Movie Review on Twitter
408th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Report
“If it works, why do you have to do it 183 times?”
Adam Driver’s smart, impassioned performance as Daniel Jones makes this procedural worth watching but can’t make it great. Nonetheless, this is an important replay of how the “torture” report came to be that proves Enhanced Interrogation Techniques don’t work.
★★½
The Report Movie Review on Twitter
409th Movie Watched in 2020:
For Love of the Game
Said it before and I’ll say it again… Kevin Costner was put on this Earth to do two things:
1) Make Westerns
2) Make Sports Movies
This isn’t a great movie, but if you look past the mediocre love story (with the bland but able (late) Kelly Preston), you’ll realize the baseball scenes in the stadium shine!
★★½
For Love of the Game Movie Review on Twitter
410th Movie Watched in 2020:
Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)
Loud, reaching, colorful, unnecessary, overly choreographed, slightly ridiculous, and scattered antihero flick with a fun, visually-entertaining, playful, women’s power vibe.
★★½
Birds of Prey Movie Review on Twitter
411th Movie Watched in 2020:
It
(2017 version) While not scary at all, this still is one terrific horror movie. I’ve watched a few times and keep coming back for the camaraderie and clever filmmaking. Thanks to the child actors who chew up the scenery in this remake of the Stephen King classic, you get drama, comedy, and thrills. A great screenplay with winning performances.
★★★★
It Movie Review on Twitter
412th Movie Watched in 2020:
Walk the Line
Credit Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon for doing their own singing as the great Johnny & June Carter Cash. One of my favorite musical biopics. It succeeds mainly because of the music the two actors made together. Extra credit for the audition scene, which was masterfully sold by the subtlety in acting from the record producer.
★★★½
Walk the Line Movie Review on Twitter
413th Movie Watched in 2020:
Robocop
My grandpa took me to see this in the theater when I was 11. I’ll always remember the shock of Kurtwood Smith blowing off Peter Weller’s hand. For years I considered this schlocky 80’s action, but I must say it surprisingly holds up well. It’s relevant, and action-packed with memorable scenes.
★★★★
Robocop Movie Review on Twitter
414th Movie Watched in 2020:
Judy
Renée Zellweger deserved all of her Best Actress Oscar for her portrayal of Judy Garland near the end of her life. She sang Garland’s songs herself and a couple of the recreations of Judy’s stage performances are nothing short of mesmerizing. Her adoption of the singer’s mannerisms (and struggles) along what she meant to some members of the gay community are inspiring and bittersweet. A sad story of a talent lost.
★★★
Judy Movie Review on Twitter
415th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Apparition
While I typically like stories of ghosts, demons, evil spirits and the supernatural, this is bland, formulaic, and run of the mill. Nothing scary or interesting. You can skip.
★
The Apparition Movie Review on Twitter
416th Movie Watched in 2020:
Big Daddy
“Hip?
Hip hop?
Hip hop anonymous?
Damn you! You gave him the easy ones!”
Typical Adam Sandler flick with the right amount of random stupid side characters that make it all worth watching. Not his best, but will get you giggling.
★★★
Big Daddy Movie Review on Twitter
417th Movie Watched in 2020:
Dragonslayer
This 1981 sword and sorcery fantasy flick will have a soft spot in my heart because of how much I watched it in my youth. Who would have thought Peter MacNicol would go from hero in this to whiner weakling in his future roles?
★★½
Dragonslayer Movie Review on Twitter
418th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Wretched
I think most horror films would be over in 30 minutes if people just communicated better.
When you think you see an evil tree witch demon… tell someone.
If you see something, say something. Standard scary movie fare with a bit of a teenage twist. Not frightening or funny, but keeps you engaged.
★★½
The Wretched Movie Review on Twitter
419th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Lie
I’m 99.9% sure I have seen enough movies and tv shows that I could cover up a murder. You ever watch a film where people trying to get away with a crime make poor decisions at every turn? That’s this Amazon Original, but with great acting and a good story.
★
The Lie Movie Review on Twitter
420th Movie Watched in 2020:
American Pie Presents: Girls’ Rules
A sophomoric addition to the crass franchise (one that’s lost it’s shock value by replacing it with an attractive cast). Meant to show “girl power” but does the opposite as 4 girlfriends fight over some 5’ 7” boy model, all need a guy to feel valued, and glorify losing virginity. Sets women’s lib back two decades.
★
American Pie Presents: Girls’ Rules Movie Review on Twitter
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421st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Hunt
I love the dark comedy genre, but this is much more. Mixed with bloody violence, action, and social/political commentary, this is a winner for me. Very entertaining thanks to an excellent turn by Betty Gilpin as the hunted turned hunter. Fun film overall.
★★★½
The Hunt Movie Review on Twitter
422nd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Young and Prodigious T.S. Spivet
I had high hopes for this and was seriously let down. Thought it was a childhood fable filled with whimsy and humor and adventure led by a spunky underdog but it failed on all attempts. Emotionless and dragging.
★½
The Young and Prodigious T.S. Spivet Movie Review on Twitter
423rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Slumdog Millionaire
Danny Boyle’s talent of displaying vibrant beauty on camera amidst the horrors of poverty make this a Must-See. The more I watch, I feel the filmmaking was rushed, but only because this amazing story deserves even more attention. I’d have watched two more hours of Samir, Jamal, and Lakita’s youthful adventures as they overcome the harsh adversities they faced.
★★★★½
Slumdog Millionaire Movie Review on Twitter
424th Movie Watched in 2020:
Clash of the Titans (2010)
The stop-motion Harry Hamlin original from 1981 was my favorite movie from my youth. My mother stopped counting at 65 views, I was that addicted.
What this remake improved in special effects, it lost in storytelling. Perseus has grit here, but not stoicism. Just too busy to be epic. It grew bigger and subsequently lost its magic.
★★
Clash of the Titans Movie Review on Twitter
425th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Outpost
This harrowing true story of an intense firefight between the Taliban and a small US Army outpost in Afghanistan is nerve-wracking. Realistic filmmaking (from West Point grad, Lurie, no less) shows brave soldiers (some playing themselves) fighting for their lives. Gives honor to the leaders on the ground but bears frustration in the military powers that would set a camp up to fail in this manner.
★★★
The Outpost Movie Review on Twitter
426th Movie Watched in 2020:
A Fantastic Fear of Everything
Simon Pegg can do no wrong, and gives an all-in performance here. Unfortunately, the story let’s him down. Beyond a couple interesting animated bits, there is very little funny in this uneven, forced comedy-horror.
★★
A Fantastic Fear of Everything Movie Review on Twitter
427th Movie Watched in 2020:
3 Ninjas
Is this a quality film? Of course not. BUT it’s not for me. The moment it ended, my 9 year old said “I’d give it 4.5 stars”. That’s all I need to know my time watching it was well spent. So I’ll say this is a positive movie with safe, approachable action scenes, promoting self-defense, “kid power”, and brotherly bonds.
★★★
3 Ninjas Movie Review on Twitter
428th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Trial of the Chicago 7
Aaron Sorkin’s writing is always eloquent, gripping, and urgent. Even this dramatization from a 1969 case seems written as a testimony for battles being fought today. An excellent cast abounds, but some elements of the case appear hurried and over-simplified. Nonetheless, a brilliant discourse in what it means to be at odds with an era’s politics.
★★★★
The Trial of the Chicago 7 Movie Review on Twitter
429th Movie Watched in 2020:
Vampires vs. the Bronx
This type of film is right in the sweet spot for what my kids like; checking the boxes for an evil entity/monster/villain (in this case vampires) and a group of teenage friends who band together to fight them. No real peril but just enough to keep them on edge and rooting for the protagonists. If it’s good enough for them, it is good enough for me.
★★★
Vampires vs. the Bronx Movie Review on Twitter
430th Movie Watched in 2020:
Borat Subsequent Moviefilm
“Great success!” ~ said in Borat voice
I have incredible respect for Sacha Baron Cohen who is willingly to literally risk his life and well-being for his comedy… nay, his ART.
He can both find the humor in introducing the abnormal to the revolting, and the crassness to the hypocritical. He stayed in character for DAYS while living in someone’s house with them! Think about that. And his very pointed take on the idiocy of conservative politics ideologies is brilliant.
Yet, with all this, it’s Maria Bakalova playing his daughter who steals this very funny movie. She is priceless. Well… $500, but priceless.
★★★½
Borat Subsequent Moviefilm Review on Twitter
431st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Perfect Weapon
This scattered doc about cyber attacks America (politics, data, and businesses) have faced and continue to face from foreign adversaries shows we’re in trouble. Interesting tit-for-tat breakdowns when we retaliate though.
★★½
The Perfect Weapon Movie Review on Twitter
432nd Movie Watched in 2020:
A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting
My youngest has been on a Halloween-impending tear of watching kid-friendly scary-themed movies (as they aren’t scary but are of the subject matter). Pretty standard tween fare, completely approachable, albeit not top shelf work. Tom Felton pleasantly surprised however.
★★
A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting Movie Review on Twitter
433rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Shot Caller
Another violent prison film proving to me once again I wouldn’t survive doing hard time. Graphic yet intricate tale of what a normal person must do to survive inside jail, and out. Intense and solid performance by Nikolai Coster-Waldau.
★★★
Shot Caller Movie Review on Twitter
434th Movie Watched in 2020:
Totally Under Control
Science > Politics
Another riveting documentary (in a long line of similar docs aimed at unmasking the idiocy of the presidency) detailing how the current administration has failed us. The ineptitude and lies from the top allowed this sickness, death and economic collapse from COVID to permeate through our country. Sheer recklessness and shamelessness.
★★★★
Totally Under Control Movie Review on Twitter
435th Movie Watched in 2020:
Vivarium
An unsettling story with a cool, unique premise.
Great visual effects add to the sci-fi set-up, but the aesthetic of the forever community is as hollow as the chances of the couple forced to parent. While intriguing, the storyline wears thin as not enough moves forward or is answered to really be satisfied.
★★½
Vivarium Movie Review on Twitter
436th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Book of Henry
Unsure why people are so divided on this movie. Some hate it, some love it. I was pleasantly surprised knowing nothing going in. Decent actors, a redirection of plot halfway, and an unusual concept. It’s hokey, but it’s good.
★★★½
The Book of Henry Movie Review on Twitter
437th Movie Watched in 2020:
Hubie Halloween
When you choose to watch a Happy Madison-produced Adam Sandler movie, you know what you are in for. And I was more than willing to watch mindless comedy for a night. I laughed, my kids laughed, and stupid humor prevailed. Good enough for me.
★★½
Hubie Halloween Movie Review on Twitter
438th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Assistant
A frustrating and honest day-in-the-life portrait of a junior assistant in a very toxic, high-powered film production company. Julia Garner is tremendously restrained and diligent in her role, but I was angry throughout. If this is the way people treat each other in corporate side of Hollywood/NY film industry, I’d last about a minute as no one should have to put up with that level of misogynistic bullshit.
★★★½
The Assistant Movie Review on Twitter
439th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Ritual
An above average horror flick with an intriguingly inventive creature, and a protagonist that is easy to root for. Not scary, by any means, but still suspenseful in the mystery of the creature. Just the right level of slow reveal as the trek into the wilderness continues.
★★★½
The Ritual Movie Review on Twitter
440th Movie Watched in 2020:
Holidate
Mirthless.
Passionless.
Basic.
Uninspired.
Generic.
Poorly-written.
Paper-thin plot.
Two leads that are devoid of chemistry.
Just skip past this Netflix flick as it’s about as romantic as a first date at a Taco Bell.
★
Holidate Movie Review on Twitter
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441st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Wandering Earth
This sci-if Chinese film is a CGI nerd’s wet dream. Many typical Chinese film tropes added into this end-of-Earth, space travel flick, but at least the action and special effects keep humming along. Don’t look to it for realism, though. Neil deGrasse Tyson would smash his television.
★★
The Wandering Earth Movie Review on Twitter
442nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Arizona
This violent dark comedy is just one more reminder why I don’t want to live in the middle of Arizona, let alone an unfinished community of homes. Rosemarie DeWitt is great, but Danny McBride’s character is hamstrung by erratic writing. It’s fun but not noteworthy enough to be fresh.
Having spent time in the Arizona desert, I had to keep asking myself – why haven’t they run into one single rattlesnake? Highly unlikely they didn’t get but given all the area that cover.
★★
Arizona Movie Review on Twitter
443rd Movie Watched in 2020:
The One and Only Ivan
Stellar cast and voice work for a CGI-heavy adaptation of a children’s book based on a true story. A bit too shmaltzy for my taste, even knowing it’s for kids, and can’t quite deliver the heart a slightly superior talking animal live action flick like Babe. Nonetheless, Bryan Cranston helps deliver a couple touching moments about the life of a captive gorilla.
★★★
The One and Only Ivan Movie Review on Twitter
444th Movie Watched in 2020:
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
I had no idea how mesmerized I’d be with this simple, yet complicated story about Mister Fred Rogers. Without realizing it, I have sincerely missed the calming presence of Mister Rogers and Tom Hanks captures his kind soul wonderfully. And across from him, Matthew Rhys delivers a tormented, yet necessary performance. I can’t believe the feeling that nostalgic opening tune has over me. Truly beautifully crafted story with some slightly odd directorial choices, that perfectly match the imaginative world that Fred Rogers created.
★★★★
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood Movie Review on Twitter
445th Movie Watched in 2020:
Gladiator
Ridley Scott’s Best Picture-winning, sword-and-sandal epic still delights on multiple viewings. Crowe delivers all the machismo, leadership and charisma while Phoenix delivers the evil, incestuous psychopath, natch. Great story and set design.
★★★★
Gladiator Movie Review on Twitter
446th Movie Watched in 2020:
Morning Glory
A top-shelf cast can’t elevate this predictable, yet kind-hearted movie about a morning news show from good to great. Rachel McAdams (who is usually a dream) is the star here but her character is written far too one-dimensional. Diane Keaton is game as always and Harrison Ford delivers as a stoic, distinguished curmudgeonly news man. In the end, it doesn’t stir any emotions and seems too fluffy and tidy to be refreshing.
★★½
Morning Glory Movie Review on Twitter
447th Movie Watched in 2020:
Rocket Science
An unfulfilling coming-of-age flick about a nervous teenager w/ a debilitating stutter pursuing a trophy and unrequited love from (a manipulative and malicious) Anna Kendrick. Doesn’t give the feel-good redemption these films should. Nobody really grew or overcame their adversity. No repercussions for any ill-conceived actions took place. Disappointing.
★
Rocket Science Movie Review on Twitter
448th Movie Watched in 2020:
I Am Greta
As a dad of 2 sons on the autism spectrum, this doc following 15-year old climate activist Greta Thunberg both hits the mark and misses it simultaneously. It certainly isn’t directed well enough to reach its intended target, which I’d assume would be a call to action. More Greta sound bites were needed to show Aspergers only makes her different, not wrong. It isn’t until the second act when she starts proving she is not some puppet, but a singularly focused child who, BECAUSE of her Aspergers, NOT in spite of it, makes the viewer know the importance of her mission.
★★½
I Am Greta Movie Review on Twitter
449th Movie Watched in 2020:
Spooky House
A juvenile children’s movie with a remedial plot and poorly written characters (yes, even for a children’s film). Even my 9 year old said (and this is a real quote) “The editing is trash and the movie is trash. 0 out of 10.”
Now even I’m not that harsh. Ben Kingsley alone adds one star to every film. (But it probably should be 1/2 star at best jb all honesty).
★
Spooky House Movie Review on Twitter
450th Movie Watched in 2020:
Run
Not the underrated 1991 film w/ Patrick Dempsey, but the 2020 Hulu Original thriller. Sarah Paulson once again delivers as only she can, with her own brand of crying-crazy-sad-demented-dangerous that she is known for. If you liked Misery, watch.
★★★
Run Movie Review on Twitter
451st Movie Watched in 2020:
Frequency
Ingenious concept coupled with spot-on casting propel this supernatural mystery into the upper echelon of notable late 90’s films that don’t get enough love. A beautiful and touching father-son story that still gives chills and wraps up (maybe just a bit too) nicely.
★★★½
Frequency Movie Review on Twitter
452nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Cast Away
Beyond the universal “stranded on a deserted island” premise, credit goes to both Hanks and Zemekis for keeping this 2+ hour film so captivating. It’s secretly a love story at its heart, yet the majority of screen time going to one man. Regardless, it still works beautifully. It’s interpersonal relationships played honestly, and it’s ending, one of hope.
★★★★
Cast Away Movie Review on Twitter
453rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Human Nature
This documentary starts slow but gets rolling when the possibilities of editing human genome really takes center stage. It triggers moral and ethical dilemmas as to how far (scientifically and philosophically) this should be taken.
★★★★
Human Nature Movie Review on Twitter
454th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two
Look past the lousy plot of this inferior holiday sequel (compared to the breath of fresh air that was the first film) and you’ll find a few positives: Kurt Russell continues to be a charismatic Santa Claus, and Goldie Hawn is a welcome addition, as is Tyrese. More Christmas spirit on celluloid never hurts this time of year, and in its outer edges, it’s a movie about broken families trying to mend.
★★
The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two Movie Review on Twitter
455th Movie Watched in 2020:
Captain America: The First Avenger
Joe Johnston took a well-known comic book origin story and adeptly turned it into an action-filled war film without playing it as a superhero movie. While First Avenger is hampered by a lame villain, it is championed by a stoic Chris Evans who makes a hero worth rooting for, and a noble role model for kids.
★★★½
Captain America: The First Avenger Movie Review on Twitter
456th Movie Watched in 2020:
Seabiscuit
No, this is not a “sports movie”, but it gets credit for being the second best movie about horse racing (behind Let it Ride). This is more a story of loss, redemption, and triumph. How broken people and a broken horse mend each other.
★★★
Seabiscuit Movie Review on Twitter
457th Movie Watched in 2020:
Hard Kill
Oh poor Bruce Willis, how far you have fallen.
I shit you not, this is easily in the 5 worst films I’ve watched this year (and I watch kid movies)! Comically terrible action and easily the worst script possible. No idea how this got made. Hard Kill? More like “Hard to Watch”. It’s movies like these that make me wonder how simple it must be to make it in Hollywood as a screenwriter. I’ve seen better film on teeth.
½
Hard Kill Movie Review on Twitter
458th Movie Watched in 2020:
Heavyweights
Congenial 90’s Disney flick about big kids at a summer camp fighting oppressive camp counselors. Ben Stiller plays the same character from the Dodgeball movie, just years earlier. Accessible to all audiences, but breaks no new ground.
★★
Heavyweights Movie Review on Twitter
459th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Call
This Korean horror-thriller plays with the same “call-across-time” format as the American movie Frequency, but with ominous intent. In typical fashion, Koreans are masterful at this genre, and it succeeds because of the two main actresses.
★★★½
The Call Movie Review on Twitter
460th Movie Watched in 2020:
Hillbilly Elegy
This autobiographical telling of one man’s upbringing in the Midwest shines a light on the generational, cyclical nature abuse, poverty, and waywardness has. Credit to Ron Howard and the set design team for absolutely nailing the era and area. While my childhood wasn’t AS dramatic, there were far too many similarities in the story to not rekindle some deep-seeded emotions. Glenn Close was absolutely tremendous.
★★★
Hillbilly Elegy Movie Review on Twitter
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461st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Revenant
Each time I watch this well-crafted film, I’m in awe at Iñárritu’s patience in his directing and the brilliant dichotomy in his camera work from intimate close-up to sprawling landscape shots. This simple revenge story is elevated by DiCaprio and Hardy’s intense performances.
★★★★
The Revenant Movie Review on the Twitter
462nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Burning
It doesn’t get much slower than this slow-burn mystery. It took so dreadfully long to develop, I questioned if there was going to be a plot at all. Held my attention, but I’m spite of itself. I love Steven Yeun, but it waited too long to get good. All the meandering wasn’t worth the payoff you could see foreshadowed miles away.
★★
Burning Movie Review on Twitter
463rd Movie Watched in 2020:
The Host
Why did I wait so long to watch this spectacular Korean monster movie? I recall the buzz, and mistakenly held off. However It may have been released in 2006, but it is even more relevant in 2020. The adult actors are both hilarious and intense in their emotionally-charged acting. A brilliant mix of creature-feature, socio-political satire, humor, and family drama by the ambitious director, Bong Joon-ho.
★★★★
The Host Movie Review on Twitter
464th Movie Watched in 2020:
Psychokinesis
I’m on a Korean movie kick recently, as they have such fresh ideas. This light-hearted supernatural action-comedy has some bright spots and cool effects. While a fun movie, it forgoes substance and deep-thinking about the superpower to deliver a front-and-center, feel-good vibe.
★★½
Psychokinesis Movie Review on Twitter
465th Movie Watched in 2020:
Underwater
The thrills begin from minute one in this deep-sea monster movie, but action from the jump means there is no character development. The cast is nothing more that wise-cracking fish-food to fill plot holes and deliver a too-tidy ending.
★★
Underwater Movie Review on Twitter
466th Movie Watched in 2020:
Forgotten
Yes, I’m still on a Korean film kick. This devastating mystery slowly unfolds answers, while going deeper into the story. A few gratifying twists and gut-wrenching turns. It’s one of those movies that keeps you guessing what is real and who is telling the truth.
★★★½
Forgotten Movie Review on Twitter
467th Movie Watched in 2020:
Arkansas
A good cast surrounds this entry-level crime flick about small-time drug dealers lost in their own drug ring when things go bad. Clark Duke stars and directs, but it is Vince Vaughn and John Malkovich that make it passable, while not great.
★★½
Arkansas Movie Review on Twitter
468th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Call of the Wild
Harrison Ford may get top billing, but Buck is the star. He’s a good boy. Even though they’re CGI animals, it doesn’t distract. Moreover, Ford does well by not playing up any of his usual Ford-isms.
I remember reading Jack London’s book as a kid and love seeing stories like these come to life.
★★★
The Call of the Wild Movie Review on Twitter
469th Movie Watched in 2020:
Marauders
A decent enough cast powers this cops and robbers crime thriller. Christopher Meloni keeps your attention throughout while Willis is wallpaper. You can tell the writers overthought the motives of the criminals in this convoluted storyline.
★★
Marauders Movie Review on Twitter
470th Movie Watched in 2020:
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey
Cute Christmas movie with exceedingly fun turns by Forrest Whitaker and Keegan Michael Key. While the effects are playful, the story is well-worn territory with unimpressive kid actors. The musical numbers are easily the best part.
★★½
Jingle Jangle Movie Review on Twitter
471st Movie Watched in 2020:
Christmas Break-in
Do you ever watch a movie where there isn’t a single redeemable character you want to see succeed?
Well this Home Alone-esque rip-off is that film.
The child protagonist? Reckless
Danny Glover’s janitor? Short-sighted
The bad guys? Idiots
Parents? Negligent
There are about a million better ways to spend two hours.
★
Christmas Break-in Movie Review on Twitter
472nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Queen and Slim
Two cop-killers go on a crime spree trying to escape justice.
(That’s a joke)
Romantic. moody, urgent, enraging, timely, tense
A traffic stop with an ignorant cop kicks off an artfully poignant, yet tragic road trip. The black experience is both laid bare by the unfortunate, unfair circumstances, while celebrated as the two on the lam become folk heroes. Daniel Kayuula is superb and the soundtrack is ace.
★★★½
Queen and Slim Movie Review on Twitter
473rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Swallow
A deeply disturbing movie about a pregnant housewife living (what appears to be) a wonderful life who develops pica. (Look it up if you must)
Haley Bennet is startling (and sensationally scary) as a woman dealing with past trauma and new pressure to be a Stepford wife.
★★½
Swallow Movie Review on Twitter
474th Movie Watched in 2020:
Ava
Chastain is a good actress, and her chops are the only thing keeping this clichéd assassin vs. assassin flick from devolving into straight-to-cable fare. Decent action with a predictable plot and some cheap character vices unnecessary added.
Common and Malkovich are passable. Still good enough to see a sequel, but no more.
★★½
Ava Movie Review on Twitter
475th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Way Back
Much to my surprise, Ben Affleck delivers an emotionally-charged performance in this sports movie that follows all the typical genre tropes, until it doesn’t.
A standard sports underdog movie more focused on the people than the game. While it centered entirely on the coach’s life (and family), I’d love to have seen more about the off-the-court lives of the players too.
★★★
The Way Back Movie Review on Twitter
476th Movie Watched in 2020:
Jurassic Park
An all-time classic. Incredible story and iconic filmmaking. Spielberg essentially showed us real dinosaurs for the 1st time. Scenes of terror, action, humor, philosophy, and science fiction with a box office bow. Dr. Grant (Sam Neill) is a hero. And John Williams’ score will stand the test of time.
★★★★★
Jurassic Park Movie Review on Twitter
477th Movie Watched in 2020:
Jurassic Park III
Sam Neill is back (whose Dr. Grant is the character that makes these movies better). Somehow the dinos aren’t as realistic all of a sudden. The action is back on an island, thank heavens, after trying to make a poorly-executed trip to the states as plot-development in the previous lackluster sequel. Some good moments exist in this third film, but leaned too light for me given the severity of the circumstances. In the end, while this franchise is great, this film lost all fright and wonderment that existed in the original.
★★★
Jurassic Park III Movie Review on Twitter
478th Movie Watched in 2020:
House Hunting
A low budget horror film with D-level actors somehow delivers entertainment solely based on a quality concept. I’ll put it out there from the start… the editing is terrible, and there are very few segues. The characters are unlikable and much of this is predictable. Yet, with all of this, there is a level of despair built into the film, along with a great ending, that made it worth watching.
★½
House Hunting Movie Review on Twitter
479th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Autopsy of Jane Doe
I’d given up on finding any quality American-made horror films (w/ S. Korea producing the only worthy ones). However this was great. Didn’t feel the need to over-explain anything, but just let the mystery unfold (only to a point). Not scary, but fresh and intriguing. What pleased me the most? Finally characters that reacted to everything the same way I’d have done in those situations. Fine acting from a believable cast. This warrants a sequel.
★★★★
The Autopsy of Jane Doe Movie Review on Twitter
480th Movie Watched in 2020:
Tone-Deaf
This dark comedy thriller is unsure what it wants to be. Moreover, it’s misguided in how to get there. It’s not the fault of the script but of the director. Some decent, fun zingers focused on generational differences between a baby boomer (Robert Patrick) and a millennial (Amanda Crew), but it’s a poorly cluttered mishmash of slasher, horror and humor.
★½
Tone-Deaf Movie Review on Twitter
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481st Movie Watched in 2020:
Jungleland
A stark plot doesn’t cost this slow, somber, bare-knuckle drama any points since the unspoken bond between the two striving brothers (Charlie Hunnam and Jack O’Connell) is substantial. Emotionally visceral, yet little to do with boxing.
★★★
Jungleland Movie Review on Twitter
482nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Happiest Season
What is meant to be a feel-good, Christmas-centered romantic comedy can’t deliver when each character on screen is obtusely selfish. So few likable characters, it made me actually feel bad for Kristen Stewart as the discarded love interest. Thank God for Dan Levy! I’d watch him in anything.
Can’t wrap up the film by putting a pretty bow on it at the very end and expect everyone else’s abhorrent behavior for the previous hour and 30 minutes be forgotten.
★★½
Happiest Season Movie Review on Twitter
483rd Movie Watched in 2020:
Rust Creek
A somewhat stale survival tale. A college student gets stranded on backroads in backwoods and looks to make it out alive after getting mixed up in a drug ring. Decent acting but lacks excitement and danger throughout her struggle.
★★½
Rust Creek Movie Review on Twitter
484th Movie Watched in 2020:
Love and Monsters
Good storytelling makes this monster movie adventure one to see. Between the narration, a likable protagonist on a perilous journey for love, great creature effects, and a dog, there are lots of reasons this should turn into a franchise.
★★★½
Love and Monsters Movie Review on Twitter
485th Movie Watched in 2020:
Black Box
This psychological thriller (w/ a hint of medical science fiction) has an engrossing mystery at its heart. Even if it’s a bit predictable, the reveals unfold at the right time. Moreover, what happens after the reveal is just as compelling. The acting is great at keeping up with the strong source material. If only the directing was up to task.
★★½
Black Box Movie Review on Twitter
486th Movie Watched in 2020:
Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa
A guilty pleasure of mine. And in my unpopular opinion, this sequel is a top 10 animated movie. Why? Because Dreamworks assembled a pot luck of the best voice cast possible with every role the right amount of screen time. Stiller, Rock, Pickett Smith, Schwimmer, Mac, and Baldwin… all have such fun with their line deliveries. From the main players to the side characters, every character is hilarious, likable, and well-positioned. Moreover, the penguins and incredible. Humorous, fun for all ages, and with a little bit of heart. Even on this, my likely 30th viewing, it never gets old.
★★★★½
Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa Movie Review on Twitter
487th Movie Watched in 2020:
Godzilla
(2014 version) With my youngest in a kaiju phase (i.e. Titans/giant monsters), we just had to watch this version of Godzilla. Lays out the backstory of the kaiju before an epic display of destructive battles and monster movie suspense on a grand scale. A great creature feature built with mythology, effects, and care.
★★★
Godzilla Movie Review on Twitter
488th Movie Watched in 2020:
Godmothered
Disney debuts another feature trying to turn standard tropes on their head, this time with fairy godmothers as their focus, yet breaks no new ground. Less a kids movie than an anemic rom-com where the heavy-handed lesson is to be happy. Passable at best, languid at worst.
★★
Godmothered Movie Review on Twitter
489th Movie Watched in 2020:
Mulan
Disney’s live action remake got a lot of flack considering it is a serviceable take on the source material. Not sure why critics were so down on it. It doesn’t blow the doors off but it’s well-made. Quality action with a satisfactory cast enhanced by Disney-fied set and costume design make this an efficient movie accessible to all.
★★★
Mulan Movie Review on Twitter
490th Movie Watched in 2020:
Lost Girls
A driven performance by Amy Ryan carries this true crime unsolved murder mystery. A heavy subject matter, and not something you can walk away feeling good about, but it keeps you in suspense despite knowing the outcome from the start. That’s the best you can hope for from a film of this nature.
★★★
Lost Girls Movie Review on Twitter
491st Movie Watched in 2020:
The Midnight Sky
Piggybacking off Pitt’s Ad Astra, Clooney delivers his own visually spectacular yet emotionally stunted space movie. He goes one step farther though by directing and starting. Wonderful outer space effects and set design imbues beauty into a somber science fiction drama with tones of helplessness.
Again, visually terrific, quality ending, but a slight disconnect from attaching emotionally to the characters.
★★★½
The Midnight Sky Movie Review on Twitter
492nd Movie Watched in 2020:
Soul
Pixar’s new treasure trove of animated eye candy takes place in the point between heaven and Earth, life and death. Promotes an invaluable lesson about recognizing the natural beauty hidden within the mundane. Nice sentiment, but not epochal.
★★★½
Soul Movie Review on Twitter
493rd Movie Watched in 2020:
My Octopus Teacher
What makes this documentary work isn’t just the subject, but that of the narrator/co-star, Craig Foster. While forging a relationship with a wild octopus in a little-traveled South African kelp forest, he doesn’t only discover reverence for the awe-inspiring creature, but a friendship filled with admiration and love. The beauty of nature is wonderfully displayed through their relationship.
★★★½
My Octopus Teacher Movie Review on Twitter
494th Movie Watched in 2020:
The Main Event
This kids movie about wrestling must have been created by a computer whose program analyzes basic kids movie tropes and weaves together an accessible tale. My youngest enjoyed it solely because it is well-traveled territory.
★★
The Main Event Movie Review in Twitter
495th Movie Watched in 2020:
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
From the jump, you can tell this was a stage production being adapted to film, but that just allows the nuances of each performance to take center stage. With nuanced performances throughout, it’s a power struggle between corporation and talent, employer and employee, team and individual, black and white. While Viola Davis’ character gets the title treatment, it’s Chadwick Boseman who shines in his final performance and should certainly be rewarded with an Oscar nomination.
★★★½
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom Movie Review on Twitter
496th Movie Watched in 2020:
Click
A not-totally generic Adam Sandler comedy as he brings his usual doofus act into a movie with some heart. Still, it has the typical crude sexual humor he’s accustomed to scattered throughout, and a REAL stretch in the casting with Kate Beckinsdale as his wife. Enjoyable and worth a few chuckles nonetheless.
★★½
Click Movie Review on Twitter
497th Movie Watched in 2020:
Possessor
The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree as Brandon Cronenberg (son of David) delivers a film with weird science fiction coupled with elements of graphic violence, sex, and horror imagery. The slow pace that is a detriment to the first act of the movie ends up being a benefit by the time the credit rolls. Nothing interesting about the story, but told in a disturbing enough way to be memorable.
★★★½
Possessor Movie Review on Twitter
498th Movie Watched in 2020:
White Fang
Jack London’s classic story got the Disney treatment w/ Ethan Hawke at the helm. Doesn’t provide near the emotion any typical story does of a man and his dog (in this case, wolf). The journey of the animal doesn’t tug heartstrings either. I guess watching The Call of the Wild recently caused me to realize this movie (which I liked when I was younger) paled in comparison.
★★
White Fang Movie Review on Twitter
499th Movie Watched in 2020:
Rampage
I know it’s based on an 80’s arcade game, but even with that, it pushed the realm of ridiculousness far beyond its breaking point. I wonder if the Rock looks at scripts and only accepts them if it’s so far-fetched, it causes brain damage.
★★
Rampage Movie Review on Twitter
500th Movie Watched in 2020:
Enola Holmes
Grateful for a clean movie with a good story, quality cast, without adult situations or foul language. This period piece exploring the Holmes family kickstarts a new, young female detective and hopefully becomes a franchise.
★★★½
Enola Holmes Movie Review on Twitter
Get to know Joe Webb
I did it! 500 movies (or thereabouts) in a year! Thank you for everyone who followed me and commented (and urged me to keep going) on Twitter.
Please watch as many movies as possible!
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That was an impressive list of movies to have watched, I have seen many of them also, but not all, some were tough to get through and like you, I wonder how they got to the point of being made. I did spend 10 years working for New Line Cinema before getting into the automotive business and I did learn that movies sometimes get made for weird reasons which are not always because they are going to be good, but ultimately pretty much most movies made and distributed by studios will make money, that ultimately is the reason. I could start listing many movie recommendations, most of which you probably have seen, however here are two, both with the same actor, In Bruges, and The Lobster, both with Collin Farrell, it would be most interesting to get your thoughts
Hey Lehel – Thanks so much for taking the time to read my list of movies watched and movie reviews. Super cool that you actually worked for a production studio. In what capacity, may I ask?
By all means, never hesitate to share movies you recommend. I’ve seen both The Lobster ad In Bruges. The Lobster was weird enough to keep me interested, but I absolutely LOVE In Bruges. So so funny. I appreciate you weighing in (sorry I’m getting to your comment so late). Hope I hear more recommendations.