Stalker (1979 Russia).
The film revolves around the belief that there is a a mysterious "oasis" called The Zone during a dystopian time, and the journey of 3 men trying to find it.
The entire film had to be nearly reshot after 1 year after they discovered previous film stock was unusable. It was not critically acclaimed at the time and I had zero frame of reference going into it other than my neighbor recommended it and I am glad he did. Complex with unforgettable imagery, profoundly beautiful, and at times intentionally boring.
Russian language and nearly 3 hours, but I highly recommend.
While not out yet, I am excited for the new Mando/Grogu movie coming out later this month. Re-watched the series, and glad I did. I forgot how much I forgot about events in the latter half of S3 (which is the last season, so far).
I am a fan, and I watched a couple of the spinoffs that pertained to the original storyline (so no Osaka, and no animated Maul, and no Andor). I am definitely not THAT interested in the whole Star Wars universe, although some friends are.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Cut Throat City:
Set after Hurricane Katrina, four boyhood friends out of options reluctantly accept an offer to pull off a dangerous heist in the heart of New Orleans.
Set in a poor black ward, this shows the choices (or lack thereof) of its residents after Katrina. It definitely had its high moments of being a really good movie, but overall, it was just okay. RZA (of Wu Tang Clan) directs, and the only other movie I've seen him direct was "The Man With The Iron Fists" which he did MUCH better at.
This one was a bit dis-jointed at times, like a scatter-brain concept that never really fully explored the characters' paths. Some of the biggest names (Ethan Hawke, Wesley Snipes, Terrance Howard) play small but significant roles.
Worth a watch, but man, this could have been so much better.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Donald Gibb, aka Ogre, has passed. 🙁
Also known for Bloodsport, the best worst movie ever.
RIP.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
180 (South African movie; no wiki that I found, but it has a very limited IMDB page):
When an unexpected road rage incident puts his son in critical condition, an enraged father spirals down a dark path of emotional turmoil and vengeance.
I thought is was a good drama, and how a person changes during/after a traumatic event. The changes are slow, it's a step-by-step process, then boom, they have done a 180, hence the title (not a spoiler, it's in the basic movie description listed on IMDB, which I copied and pasted).
There are a couple twists and turns, and while the viewer sees these, the characters obviously don't. There are two key moments that realllllly shed light on that, and definitely affects the plot in a good way as far as quality writing/acting.
I would definitely give this one a whirl.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
While not out yet, I am excited for the new Mando/Grogu movie coming out later this month. Re-watched the series, and glad I did. I forgot how much I forgot about events in the latter half of S3 (which is the last season, so far).
I am a fan, and I watched a couple of the spinoffs that pertained to the original storyline (so no Osaka, and no animated Maul, and no Andor). I am definitely not THAT interested in the whole Star Wars universe, although some friends are.
Andor is really good
The Crash:
Follows the Mackenzie Shirilla case, a 17-year-old who [ed note] (potentially) intentionally crashed her car into a brick wall in Ohio, killing her boyfriend Dominic Russo and his friend Davion Flanagan. She was convicted of 12 felonies.
I have to give fair representation in the description, but, yeah, it was intentional IMO. Bizarre case, and honestly, that was the best defense attorney she came up with? Wow. Also, (spoiler) going with a bench trial instead of jury probably hurt her. You get ONE opinion, instead of twelve (odds are, one might result in a hung jury).
I think in a moment of rage, she did what she did, but I do believe she did regret it after the fact. "What have I done?" sort of thing. Good watch, and as far as mental health, things are not always as they seem (that includes normal teenage hormones).
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Top Gun was released 40 years ago today… I feel old!!!
And, amazingly, the sequel is better than the OG. And there is a third one on the docket, as of now....
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Denial:
Acclaimed writer and historian Deborah E. Lipstadt must battle for historical truth to prove the Holocaust actually occurred when David Irving, a renowned denier, sues her for libel.
Based on a true story (and I might actually look into the source material, but have a pile of other books to get through first 
).
Very good court drama, and a bit of legalese is brought up towards the end which I thought was an EXCELLENT point. This is a great case to show that one cannot allow emotion interfere with the letter or spirit of the law. One has to work within how the law is written.
The first step (which I did not know) is that in England, you have to prove your innocence, whereas in the U.S. you just have to prove you are not guilty. That's a HUGE difference. The second, although the "crime" in question is examined, and could be incredibly morally wrong, might not be legally wrong. Finally, the third step...public image/relations. How many cases in the last 20-30 years (using the obvious timeframe due to expansion of the internet/instant news) were already decided by the public?
This is a great "thinking" movie, highly recommend.
One nit: Rachael Weisz's Queens/Jewish accent comes and goes at random. Gonna toss out Marisa Tomei's New York accent in "My Cousin Vinny" as an example of consistency. Rachel's was the opposite of that.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Denial:
Acclaimed writer and historian Deborah E. Lipstadt must battle for historical truth to prove the Holocaust actually occurred when David Irving, a renowned denier, sues her for libel.Very good court drama, and a bit of legalese is brought up towards the end which I thought was an EXCELLENT point. This is a great case to show that one cannot allow emotion interfere with the letter or spirit of the law. One has to work within how the law is written.
In that regard (as well as others such as wonderful performances by several actors) I'd highly recommend Nuremberg with Russell Crowe, Rami Malek and Michael Shannon among others.
Denial:
Acclaimed writer and historian Deborah E. Lipstadt must battle for historical truth to prove the Holocaust actually occurred when David Irving, a renowned denier, sues her for libel.Very good court drama, and a bit of legalese is brought up towards the end which I thought was an EXCELLENT point. This is a great case to show that one cannot allow emotion interfere with the letter or spirit of the law. One has to work within how the law is written.
In that regard (as well as others such as wonderful performances by several actors) I'd highly recommend Nuremberg with Russell Crowe, Rami Malek and Michael Shannon among others.
Oh yes, I have seen that one. Excellent movie.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
A Family (aka Yakuza And The Family) (Japanese):
Kenji Yamamoto's father died from using a stimulant drug. His life fell into desperation. Kenji then joined a crime syndicate. There, he meets the gang's boss Hiroshi Shibasaki. Hiroshi reaches out to Kenji and they developed a relationship like father and son. As time passes, Kenji has his own family.
This basically follows the life of Kenji from start to finish, and in that way resembles Goodfellas. However, it opens the curtains to how the Yakuza works, so it also has similarities to The Godfather. There is drama and intrigue, ups and downs, how the Yakuza once was revered AND feared, and how the culture shifted as time wore on.
Nothing is glorified nor is it shamed. The movie just shows how it is.
Overall, I was impressed with the story-telling and the development of the characters, and how they viewed honor, respect, justice, family, and brotherhood. I do recommend this one.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Alone:
A recently widowed traveler is kidnapped by a cold-blooded killer, only to escape into the wilderness, where she is forced to battle against the elements as her pursuer closes in on her.
While it is somewhat suspenseful, there is nothing new here in the way of stalker movies. Start clicking off the cliches and tropes. The best it has going for it, is that it has 3 on-screen roles, and 3-4 short additional speaking roles (via phone calls). This is similar to the previously reviewed movie "Apex" w/Charlize Theron, which was a much better movie.
I'd rate it as a time-killer. It's not bad, but not really worth searching for.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Lord, help me. Michael Bay is up to direct a new movie about the 2 temporarily lost airmen. This is NOT political, this is about the following:
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Watched ‘Standout: The Ben Kjar Story’ with the wife tonight. A very good movie/documentary of triumph and motivation.
Ladies First:
A male chauvinist is transported to a matriarchal society, facing challenges from a formidable female version of himself.
Standard switcheroo movie; the plot kind of reminded me of a sub-plot of the Barbie movie, where Ken finds the real world to be patriarchal. Some standard gags, but also some good foreshadowing and also some nice hints at possibly a twist or two in the ending.
Some may think it's a little over the top, and I would disagree, if one comes in with a neutral view, and looks in the mirror. This goes for both sexes, everyone needs to look in the mirror on this one.
I'd say it was a good weekend watch.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
The Mandalorian And Grogu:
Once a lone bounty hunter, Mandalorian Din Djarin and his apprentice Grogu embark on an exciting new Star Wars adventure.
There is no specific overall plot to this movie, it's a couple plots rolled together, which makes it feel like 3-4 episodes rolled into one viewing. This isn't a criticism, mind you. It was a fun movie, Grogu is still SLOWLY doing more than cute Grogu things (that IS a nitpick, let's speed things up a little in that department).
And I don't remember the species/race/whatever, but the "No Squeezies!" tiny droid mechanics are very much present, and that was something I REALLY hoped for, to be honest. Those guys are awesome.
If you can avoid hearing about it on the internet or word of mouth, then there is not a rush to see this, but, given the special effects and everyone talking about it, I'd say catch in in the theater. Hell, I did, and the last movie I saw in a theater was Top Gun: Maverick. 😉
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Figure more people pay attention to this thread vs. the TV thread...
Watched a couple "Untold" eps tonight (Netflix's version of 30 For 30)
Vinnie Jones:
Heard about his reputation as a soccer player, became a fan after seeing the movie "Snatch." Good "tough guy" actor. Interesting hearing his perspective and how he generally came about. He admits his strengths, and faults, seems pretty honest with himself in this.
Chess Mates:
Explores the explosive 2022 cheating scandal involving chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen and rising star Hans Niemann.
Yes, this is the infamous "cheating with anal beads" incident, and there is a LOT going on here, from all sides. I tell you, some of these niche games (CHESS IS NOT A SPORT) are way more cut-throat than traditional sports. And they are ALL crazy. I liked it more than I thought I would, hearing the different takes and perspectives.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Concussion:
In Pittsburgh, accomplished pathologist Dr. Bennet Omalu uncovers the truth about brain damage in football players who suffer repeated concussions in the course of normal play.
I can see why the NFL did NOT like this movie whatsoever. I thought Will Smith was very good in it, same with Alec Baldwin. The premise is correct: pro ball players, of any sport, know the physical risks. They didn't know the mental risks, and that is the real issue.
Addendum: Currently reading Dick Butkus' autobiography, and yeah, basically back then, the docs would just clear players to play. Shoot 'em up with something, get 'em on the field.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Dead Man's Wire:
On February 8, 1977, Tony Kiritsis entered the office of Richard Hall, president of the Meridian Mortgage Company, and took him hostage with a sawed-off shotgun wired with a "dead man's wire" from the trigger to Tony's own neck. Based on a true story.
Very good movie, and it was interesting how different the laws were back then. The cast did very well in their roles, really captured each step of the way in resolving the dilemma. At times, one is thinking, "Man, that is a very smart move" and other times one is almost screaming at the movie "What are you thinking?! That is the WORST way to handle things!"
Definitely recommend.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Fast Charlie:
For twenty years, Charlie Swift has been a fixer and hitman for a mob boss named Stan. After a rival boss puts a hit on Stan and his crew, Charlie is the sole survivor and decides to avenge his friend.
Pierce Brosnan, enough said. Morena Baccarin? Bonus (most known for Vanessa in "Deadpool"). Nice movie that not only incorporates organized crime, but injects a bit of humor, and a bit of cat-and-mouse. It was enjoyable, good low-key popcorn flick.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Backrooms. Hoo boy. I know this one won't be for everyone and I had a few minor annoyances with some gaps in answering "wtf?" but overall we thoroughly enjoyed it.
Song Sung Blue:
Lightning and Thunder, a Milwaukee husband and wife Neil Diamond tribute act, experience soaring success and devastating heartbreak in their musical journey together.
This movie was everything I hoped for, and then some. Below is the concert I saw them at. OBVIOUSLY didn't appreciate them as I do nowadays. They did rock, were amazing. (and they are correct about "Sweet Caroline")
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Anyone have pre bought tickets for the ‘Toy Story 5’ frenzy this weekend. I don’t know if we’ll be able to get the kids there this weekend (the weekend is pretty full already), but we aren’t that worried. If we can’t, maybe next or the weekend after.
Remarkably Bright Creatures:
Through unlikely bonds formed during night shifts at a local aquarium, Tova, an elderly widow, learns of a life-changing discovery that may bring her joy and wonder once again.
Took me a bit to get into it, but once it got going, it was pretty good. The ending was a little "....well I'll be damned" moment, it worked, though. Overall, it's light-hearted, but does have some rather serious moments.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Remarkably Bright Creatures:
Through unlikely bonds formed during night shifts at a local aquarium, Tova, an elderly widow, learns of a life-changing discovery that may bring her joy and wonder once again.Took me a bit to get into it, but once it got going, it was pretty good. The ending was a little "....well I'll be damned" moment, it worked, though. Overall, it's light-hearted, but does have some rather serious moments.
Really enjoyed this film, Sally Field & Colm Meany were fantastic.
“When your best friend is the son of God, you get tired of losing every argument.”
― Christopher Moore, Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal
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I also really liked “Remarkably Bright Creatures”. My wife gave me her “what the hell is this” look when I pick something different to stream. Didn’t take her long to get hooked though.
Maternal Instinct:
When a Texas state trooper pulled over a woman driving erratically on the highway in 2020, she claimed she had just given birth, but her story didn't add up.
A documentary about a story that is HOLY SH* THIS IS *ED UP. As the story unfolds and facts are revealed, I don't even know where to begin. If you're into true crime stuff, it's very interesting, but be warned about how twisted this one is. It's very demented.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
If These Walls Could Sing (2022) - The untold story of Abbey Road studio, including all-star interviews and backstage access to the premises. Talks if its origins all the way back to 1931 and somewhat to the present.
If you're a musical history buff of any kind it's a great watch. Interview clips with Paul and Ringo, Niles Rogers, Liam and Noel Gallagher, Elton John, etc., etc.
Chris and Martina: The Final Set
I stumbled upon this but really enjoyed it. Follows their careers, competitive matches, friendship and battles with cancer. I thought it was well done, especially if you were around back in the day.
Touching actually.
It's on Netflix.
Chris and Martina: The Final Set
I stumbled upon this but really enjoyed it. Follows their careers, competitive matches, friendship and battles with cancer. I thought it was well done, especially if you were around back in the day.
Touching actually.
It's on Netflix.
Thank for this recommendation. Added to my queue. I still remember watching every grand slam event for a few decades, especially Wimbledon where we would watch intently while on vacation at the cabin.
Not a movie, but Netflix. The new Louis CK special.
It was more misses than hits, a bit rough. I will say the hits just slayed. The last 10-15 minutes or so were classic. However, the misses had me asking, "Damn, what DIDN'T make the cut?" Flat, not really funny at all, almost hack-comic level.
Overall, it is barely worth it for the ups, but if there is something else you were thinking of watching, I'd probably go with that. This is definitely just a time killer as a whole.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
I haven't watched it yet, but thought the latest specials for both Burr and Segura were subpar. I wonder if it's once you reach a certain age sort of like we often see with musicians/bands, that you reach a point where they just stop putting out compelling content.
Sugar
Dominican baseball star Miguel "Sugar" Santos is recruited to play in the U.S. minor-leagues.
While it's fiction, it does portray the struggles of the immigrant sports player, with culture and language barriers. I thought it was very well done, considering any sport that's played around the world is indeed the same game, but those barriers make it too tough for many to overcome, but also in many cases, they build on it to succeed.
I recommend this, for sure.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Sam Neill has passed away. RIP.
if you’ve never seen it, I highly recommend Dead Calm. Really good movie.
McCartney: The Hunt for the Lost Bass. The disappearance of McCartney's original Höfner bass over 50 years ago was one of rock 'n' roll's great mysteries. This movie is the story of the iconic instrument and the quest to find it.
For those of you wondering why his bass was considered so iconic:
Sidebar for those of you that disrespected Ringo as a drummer:
Send help
Rachel McAdams plays a quirky office woman that’s stranded on an island with her boss who’s a total ass to her at work. It’s pretty entertaining that keeps flipping and turning while they’re on the island. I wouldn’t really say it’s a horror/ thriller though. I’d say more like action/suspense/drama with some comedy mixed in. We like her in every role she’s done so she does good work here as usual. I’d give it a thumbs up Maybe a 6/10. Interesting movie but probably more interesting they list it as a horror/thriller.
“Good pace, a lot of north and south, or it could be east and west, I’m not sure but either way…” Wooger
Pohlad baseball ⚾️ it’s not arrogance, we really are “that good” #”Hey Siri, play “faithfully” by Journey max volume”
I am not a movie critic but for THE ODYSSEY was very expensive to make and the story of this movie does not have my interest
Aloha!
I am not a movie critic but for THE ODYSSEY was very expensive to make and the story of this movie does not have my interest
Same, I will stick to O' Brother Where Art Thou.
“When your best friend is the son of God, you get tired of losing every argument.”
― Christopher Moore, Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal
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You guys were not a fan of Homer's epic poem? To each their own - we're going to watch it in IMAX on Tuesday.
You guys were not a fan of Homer's epic poem? To each their own - we're going to watch it in IMAX on Tuesday.
Having read the Odyssey and enjoyed pretty much every Nolan film I have seen, I am very excited to see this film. Great cast, director, and story. I guess I don't get the hate especially when reviews have been overwhelmingly positive.
'29, '40, '74, '76, '79, '02, & '03
GPL's Resident Cabin Enthusiast & Cadets Hockey Fan
Old Henry:
A farmer takes in an injured man with a satchel of cash. When a posse comes for the money, he must decide who to trust. Defending a siege, he reveals a gunslinging talent calling his true identity into question.
A slow-burning western, each layer of that onion being peeled was slower than smoking a proper brisket, and it's a good thing. A foreshadowing here, a hint (or two, one being VERY subtle*) there...
I think a big plus is the viewer thinks they know, but then they start to question some things, and of course, by the end there will be at least one thing they didn't expect. A "filling out the truth" sort of deal.
Good watch.
SPOILER:
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Cleaner (2025).
Leatherheads:
In 1925, an enterprising pro football player convinces America's too-good-to-be-true college football hero to play for his team and keep the league from going under.
I somehow never got around to seeing this until tonight. It's a fun movie, the comedy and banter matching early Hollywood movies. Even though Renee Zellweger is in it (and IMO still has the most punchable face in the business), it scratched the itch I was looking for.
Lighthearted, sportsball, and vaguely set in the truths of the beginnings of pro football. Definitely enjoyed it, and would recommend.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
The 24th:
It is the story of the all-black Twenty-Fourth United States Infantry Regiment, and the Houston Riot of 1917.
Simplistic summary from imdb, too much so, IMO. The 24th was to guard the building of a new fort just outside of Houston, and of course many racial tensions (even among the 24th themselves) led up to the explosion of emotions and actions.
Some of the issues are probably not as known outside the black culture (such as being mixed-race or light-skinned), and some are painfully obvious (not a spoiler, but a paraphrase from the movie: If you're not better than a n*, you might as well be dead).
Very good movie, and as far as I could tell reading stuff about it, very historically accurate in the events leading up to the riot.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Anthropoid:
Operation Anthropoid is conceived during WWII to assassinate SS General Reinhard Heydrich, the main architect behind the Final Solution and the Reich's third in command.
Randomly caught some article about "movies you need to see, and probably haven't heard of," and this was on there. Given that it had Cillian Murphy in it, added it to my list. I wasn't disappointed.
Throughout the movie, the brave become cowards, and vice versa, and sometimes back to the original type of character. I can't imagine the see-sawing of the mental state of the undercover ops of war, obviously never having experienced it. This movies does well in portraying that in all the characters, civilian or soldier.
The Germans are portrayed as an army that isn't really smart in the way of tactics. For example, a couple scenes, they just march soldiers in, only to get obliterated, instead of just grenading/mega-gunning the sh* outta the place. That may have actually been the case, and that's the way it played out, but man, if so, that's embarrassing.
Either way, good watch.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Crisis:
Set against the backdrop of the opioid epidemic, stories of an undercover cop, a professor and a grieving mother collide.
Gary Oldman was very good, along with Armie Hammer. At the start, the storylines are a bit uneven, scattered. It eventually comes together, but it's not a smooth connection, it's more crashing into the boards all at once, and that's on the writing.
One of the more famous movies with "colliding lives" that this one reminded me of was "Crash" (although I still maintain "Higher Learning" was a MUCH better movie). As flawed as Crash was, the mixing of the characters' paths was rather seamless.
Good movie, good acting. Give it a go.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
Started the new season of Quarterback on Netflix. I don't have high hopes for this one, given the QBs involved. I will say, Baker Mayfield seems MUCH more mature than when he hit the NFL (and he's owned up to his past). I do like Flacco's vet takes on the young'ns in this series.
Listening to 93X HAMS sports segment, I guess a lot of QBs, after seeing the series, don't want that kind of intrusiveness, and have declined to be on the show, which I totally get. I sure wouldn't want that.
Still want to see a series like this on LBs for sure, maybe DLine and DBs.
When you tell somebody somethin', it depends on what part of the United States you're standin' in... as to just how dumb you are.
The Odyssey - just brilliant. Saw it in Imax and am going to go again tomorrow.
It's not flawless - Tom Holland is average at best, Charlize Theron seemed stiff, and the ending? But Anne Hathaway, Elliott Page, Damon, Jon Bernthal and yes even Robert Pattison were quite good.
There are several sequences where you are left stunned and/or in awe, the sound editing was absolutely perfect throughout, the production was as good as it gets. 2 or 3 moments where I wish there were subtitles but other than that I was floored.