With a name that conjures visions of green-skinned witches and spellbinding showtunes, I walked into the theater for "Wicked" with soaring expectations. Directed by the brilliant Jon M. Chu and anchored by powerhouse performances from Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, this film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical promised a captivating experience.
As I embarked on the eerie journey through Nosferatu, directed by F.W. Murnau and featuring the haunting performance of Max Schreck as Count Orlok, my expectations were steeped in a rich blend of history and horror. This silent film, released in the midst of the 1920s cinematic revolution, has gained a legendary status over the decades, often regarded as one of the earliest examples of expressionist horror.
Planet Dune, the movie that dares to ask: "What if we take all the epic grandeur of Dune and replace it with... well, whatever this is?" Directed by Tammy Klein and Glenn Campbell, and released in September 2021, this science fiction mockbuster is more of a cosmic comedic catastrophe than anything else. And you know what? I actually liked it.
If you’re in the mood for a fun buddy cop movie, “The Nice Guys” is definitely a solid pick! I found this film to be an enjoyable romp, brimming with lighthearted humor and a nostalgic vibe. The chemistry between the characters, paired with the charm of 1970s Los Angeles, left me thoroughly entertained and in good spirits by the end of the experience.
Elevation, the latest post-apocalyptic action thriller directed by George Nolfi, I was hoping for an engaging adventure that would blend tactical survival with emotional stakes. After all, the film stars Anthony Mackie and Morena Baccarin, both actors known for their compelling performances. Unfortunately, what unfolded before me was a cinematic trainwreck of boredom, confusion, and missed opportunities.
I walked into "Red One" with a mix of skepticism and excitement, given that holiday films often tread the same well-worn paths. Directed by Jake Kasdan, this action-packed Christmas movie stars Dwayne Johnson as Callum Drift, Chris Evans as the hacker Jack O'Malley, and J.K. Simmons in a role that will surely redefine our perceptions of Santa Claus.
Night of Horror (1981)—the cinematic equivalent of finding out your favorite ice cream has been replaced with broccoli-flavored sorbet. After I ranted on Discord about how Armor was the worst film of 2024, a mod challenged me to watch this so-bad-it's-comical flick, insisting it would make Armor look like an Oscar contender.
I walked into Armor, the latest installment of cinematic disappointment directed by Justin Routt and featuring the legendary (though increasingly puzzling) Sylvester Stallone, with expectations that were perhaps too generous.
As I settled in to watch "Heretic," I was filled with anticipation, not just for the film’s engaging premise, but also to witness Hugh Grant’s intriguing transformation from a beloved romantic lead to a masterful villain. It’s akin to watching your charming neighbor become the most sinister character in a psychological horror story.
As an avid enthusiast of the spy genre, I knew I needed to fully commit to Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, directed by Tomas Alfredson and based on John le Carré's celebrated novel. I had put it off for far too long, but when I finally settled into my seat on a three-hour flight, I realized that it was the best decision ever.