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Category: New Releases

  • Slashening: The Final Beginning (2021)

    Slashening: The Final Beginning (2021)

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    Upon its release in 2015, The Slashening was well-received among critics and horror fans for its satirical wit. At the 2018 Milwaukee Twisted Dreams Festival, the film won the Best Supporting Actor and Best Makeup awards. Given its success, Brandon Bassham decided to crowdfund a sequel on IndieGoGo, much like he did on his other films. While most of the cast was new, Billy Bob Thompson and Patrick Foy returned for the sequel. Of the $10,000 flexible goal, the film raised over $8,000 for production, which added to the total $15,000 budget. Regarding the sequel, Bassham promised that it would be “the bloodiest, dirtiest horror/comedy ever made.” Like Bassham’s last two movies, Troma picked up this one for distribution and was released in 2021. In April 2021, Slashening: The Final Beginning had its LA premiere, followed by a release on Troma Now.

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    Synopsis

    Five years after the last film, Madison Santangeli (Addie Weyrich) moves to Brooklyn and joins a support group. Her father owned the pizza parlor where the murdered delivery drivers worked, killing his business and leading to suicide. The support group is led by Pat (Patrick Foy), who survived his mutilations, with his girlfriend Cher (Madonna Refugia). There’s also Viv (Jean Louise O’Sullivan), Bex (Jaime Lutz), Greg (Carl Foreman Jr.), Dylan (McManus Woodend), and Kyle (Jon Bershad). Maddie seeks solace in her friend Kim (Rasheda Crockett), who helps her cope with talks in the bathtub. Unfortunately, a copycat killer is picking off the support group members one by one in increasingly gruesome ways. As the body count rises, Maddie learns more about the killer than expected, including the number of killers. Will she survive her attackers or be another victim of the new slashening?

     

    Review

    If you enjoyed The Slashening, you’d most likely enjoy Slashening: The Final Beginning since it’s more or less the same. Like that film, this one has plenty of gags and gore to keep you entertained, though your mileage may vary. Admittedly, some of the jokes don’t land, but there are plenty that hit, and no group is spared from ridicule. These include guys pretending to be feminists to get laid and white women threatening black business owners with negative reviews. Unfortunately, there are times when the gags are stretched out too long, but luckily, they’re few and far between. It’s a horror-comedy that leans a bit more into comedy, but plenty of horrors can be had. The gore effects are minimal, but there are plenty of bloody moments and inventive kills involving ukuleles and corkscrews. There’s even some nudity added in, which came as a shock.

    Everyone in the cast does a commendable job taking the material seriously while being in on the joke. Addie Weyrich makes for a likable lead, acting as the straight man to all the insanity around her. Jean Louise O’Sullivan and Jaime Lutz are having fun playing two stereotypical stuck-up, entitled white women you love to hate. Patrick Foy is funny as the lone survivor from the original, and Madonna Refugia is excellent as the insane girlfriend. Speaking of hateable characters, McManus Woodend plays into the incel trope well, and hearing people insult him is hilarious. Some might find the humor too political, but it works because both sides are made fun of. Some parts of the movie drag at an hour and twenty minutes, but watching with friends is still fun. Overall, Slashening: The Final Beginning is a hilariously bloody slasher spoof that builds on what made the original enjoyable.

     

    Watch Slashening: The Final Beginning on Troma Now: https://bit.ly/3MAlkew.

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  • The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

    The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

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    With a $48 million budget, the 1993 Super Mario Bros. movie only made $38.9 million and received generally negative reviews. Because of this failure, Nintendo became more protective of its IPs and put future films on indefinite hold. In 2015, Nintendo announced a partnership with Universal Parks & Resorts to create Mario-themed attractions, ultimately creating Super Nintendo World. This partnership led to Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto meeting with Illumination founder/CEO Chris Meledandri, and the two started collaborating. Miyamoto felt that Meledandri would be perfect for heading a Mario movie, with Nintendo making an official announcement in 2018. In 2021, Teen Titans Go! creators Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic were hired to direct, with Matthew Fogel writing. Fans became concerned about Chris Pratt and Seth Rogen voicing Mario and Donkey Kong, respectively, but the studio defended them. The Super Mario Bros. Movie hit the big screen in April 2023.

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    Synopsis

    Brothers Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day) are Brooklyn plumbers struggling to find work after starting their own business. While trying to fix a sewer leak, the brothers are sucked into a pipe and get separated. Mario lands in the Mushroom Kingdom, while Luigi is in the Dark Lands, ruled over by King Bowser (Jack Black). After meeting Toad (Keegan-Michael Key), Mario is taken to Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy), hoping she’ll help him rescue his brother. She agrees to bring Mario and Toad along as she travels to the Jungle Kingdom to ask for their help. Their leader, Cranky Kong (Fred Armisen), will help if Mario can beat his son, Donkey Kong (Seth Rogen), in combat. Mario wins, so Cranky agrees to lend his army to help Peach fend off Bowser from conquering the Mushroom Kingdom. Will they succeed, or will King Bowser win Peach’s hand in marriage?

     

    Review

    I’d compare The Super Mario Bros. Movie to the first Sonic the Hedgehog movie: it isn’t groundbreaking but entertaining. Honestly, that’s all I was hoping to get out of this, and this movie pulls it off. This feels like what Super Mario Bros. should’ve been like back in 1993, and it probably would’ve done better. I often find Illumination’s animation mid-tier at best, but it looks fantastic here and does the franchise justice. It’s very bright and colorful, and the locations are varied, from the fantastical Mushroom Kingdom to the realistic-looking Brooklyn. There are plenty of Mario references sprinkled in, but it’s from a love of the franchise rather than forced recognition. Further adding to this is the fantastic score by Brian Tyler, which includes remixes of classic songs from the games. They add to the feel that this is a Super Mario Bros. movie.

    Despite how people initially reacted, Chris Pratt does a fine job as Mario, reserving the “Wahoos” to a minimum. If he had just done a typical Mario voice throughout, it would’ve gotten old quickly, so he was fine. Charlie Day is fantastic as Luigi and has excellent chemistry with Pratt, so it’s disappointing that they’re separated early on. Jack Black is another stand-out as the villainous Bowser, who has some hilarious musical interludes about pining over Princess Peach. Anya Taylor-Joy is another excellent casting choice for Princess Peach, as is Seth Rogen as Donkey Kong. I’d say Fred Armisen was the weakest as Cranky Kong, as he doesn’t sound as cranky as he should be. My only other complaint is that while Brian Tyler’s score is excellent, there’s some 80s rock that’s out of place. Overall, The Super Mario Bros. Movie isn’t perfect, but it’s a good time for fans.

    [/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” link_option_url_new_window=”on” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]Buy Your Tickets on Sale to watch ” The Super Mario Bros Movie TOS Promo” playing in theaters starting March 10th[/et_pb_code][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

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  • Puppet Master: Axis Termination (2017)

    Puppet Master: Axis Termination (2017)

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    After the release of Puppet Master X: Axis Rising in 2012, there was a renewed interest in Charles Band’s catalog. In addition to the launch of his streaming service, many of Band’s Empire Pictures catalog was getting rereleased. Companies like Shout Factory, 88 Films, and Kino Lorber were putting out blu-ray releases of From Beyond, Dolls, and Transformations. In 2015, Band signed a deal with the El Rey Network to broadcast Full Moon’s movies, starting with Puppet Master. Around the same time, Band announced a new entry in the series that would end the Axis Trilogy. Filming began in 2016 at Full Moon’s studios, though additional funding was provided through IndieGoGo, which totaled over $90,000. As an incentive, backers could have small parts, and El Rey ran a contest to be killed by the puppets. With help from the fans, Puppet Master: Axis Termination was released in September 2017.

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    Synopsis

    After Danny (Kip Canyon) and Beth (Jean Louise O’Sullivan) are murdered, the puppets are taken by Captain Brooks (Paul Logan). Brooks is given a special assignment from General Kip Hansard (Allen Perada) involving a group of psychics and puppets. The psychics are led by Dr. Ivan Ivanov (George Appleby), his daughter Elisa (Tania Fox), and Georgina Vale (Alynxia America). Meanwhile, Doktor Gerde Ernst (Tonya Kay) has taken control of the Nazi puppets: Bombshell, Blitzkrieg, and Weremacht. Ernst has been experimenting with help from Sturmbanfuhrer Steiner Krabke (Kevin Scott Allen) and Oberhelfer Friede Steitze (Lilou Vos). She’s found a way to extract more of the serum needed to keep the puppets alive and fighting. As Brooks and the Psychics fight the Nazis, Blade, Pinhead, Tunneler, Jester, Six Shooter, and Leech Woman fight the puppets. With the fate of the free world at stake, who will emerge victorious?

     

    Review

    Given that this was supposed to end the Axis Trilogy, it’s disappointing how lackluster Puppet Master: Axis Termination is. It’s not as bad as Puppet Master: The Legacy, but that’s not saying much, considering it was a clip show. For one, it’s disappointing that they took the previous films’ two leads and killed them off at the beginning. They’re not even given a proper send-off, but instead, they get gunned down in the street before the opening credits. Thankfully, the new characters introduced aren’t terrible, but it would’ve been nice to give Danny and Beth some closure. Some hastily added digital effects, especially the CG blood spray, also took me out of the movie. That bugs me because fake blood is easy to make, and they used real fake blood here. Considering this is the bloodiest entry, they may have run out of corn syrup and food coloring.

    The acting ranges from halfway decent to primarily flat, though there are a few standouts in the cast. Tonya Kay is easily the best part of the movie, playing her role as wickedly and devilishly as possible. Kevin Scott Allen also does a decent job as the psychic agent of Doktor Ernst, and Paul Logan makes for a solid square-jawed hero. The puppet effects are decent, though there are odd moments where they add people in costume on green screens. Seeing the puppets move weirdly fluidly makes me miss David Allen’s stop-motion work from the older movies. The pacing drags even at an hour and fifteen minutes, and the whole film feels anticlimactic by the end. It’s excellent that Full Moon got the fans involved in making this, but it’s disappointing how this finale turned out. Overall, Puppet Master: Axis Termination isn’t awful, but it’s not great, either.

     

    Buy Puppet Master: Axis Termination on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3U17uDn.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

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  • John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)

    John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)

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    During a Reddit AMA, Chad Stahelski said if John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum was successful, he’d direct a fourth film. Thankfully, the sequel grossed over $327 million worldwide against a $75 million budget, becoming the highest-grossing entry in the series. While it wasn’t initially confirmed, Keanu Reeves announced he’d return after finishing his commitment to The Matrix Resurrections. Lionsgate officially announced plans for a 4th and 5th film in August 2020, the first scheduled for a 2022 release. The studio also decided to replace long-time writer Derek Kolstad with Shay Hatten and Predators screenwriter Michael Finch. Filming started in June 2021 and took place around France, Germany, New York, and Japan with a $100 million budget. While Lionsgate announced a Memorial Day 2022 release, the film was pushed back to avoid competition with Top Gun: Maverick. Following a London premiere, John Wick: Chapter 4 hit theaters in March 2023.

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    Synopsis

    After years of hiding, John Wick (Keanu Reeves) is prepared to exact his revenge on The High Table. In response, a senior High Table member called the Marquis Vincent de Gramont (Bill Skarsgård) destroys the New York Continental. He also strips former manager Winston (Ian McShane) of his power and sends blind hitman Caine (Donnie Yen) after Wick. At the same time, someone known as the “Tracker” (Shamier Anderson) is keeping track of Wick and his bounty. Following an attack in Osaka, Wick learns of the Continental’s demise and reunites with Winston, who offers him a solution. Winston suggests Wick challenge Gramont to a duel, but he has to be associated with a family. Wick returns to his Ruska Roma family and challenges Gramont to a duel overseen by The Harbinger (Clancy Brown). Despite agreeing to the terms, Gramont will stop at nothing to prevent John Wick from showing up.

     

    Review

    Given how long we had to wait for this sequel, it’s incredible how great John Wick: Chapter 4 turned out. By the fourth entry in a franchise, it typically starts to lose some steam and fall into sequelitis. Thankfully, that’s not the case here, as Chad Stahelski and team managed to make an entry that exceeds the original. Like before, Keanu Reeves is a force to be reckoned with as the nearly indestructible John Wick. Though a man of few words, Reeves again expresses more through his actions than he could by dialogue. Bill Skarsgård is excellent as the Marquis, playing the best kind of villain, where you love to hate him. Donnie Yen is also fantastic as the blind hitman Caine, who’s more than a match for Wick. Interestingly, this is the second movie where Donnie Yen plays a skilled fighter who’s blind, the first being Rogue One.

    Though his scenes are few, Clancy Brown brings a quiet intensity as the Harbinger that permeates throughout the movie. The always dependable Hiroyuki Sanada does a great job, and Scott Adkins is hilarious as an overweight crime boss. Singer/model Rina Sawayama is excellent, considering this is her feature film debut, and she shows great potential. Special mention goes to Shamier Anderson, who shares some great scenes with Reeves and does well in the fight scenes. Like the earlier films, the action sequences are well-shot, incredibly fluid, well-edited, and more exciting than the last. For example, there’s a shootout where it goes from ground level to a bird’s eye view, like a top-down shooter. My only real complaint is the runtime, which could’ve been trimmed slightly, but that’s it. Overall, John Wick: Chapter 4 will go down as one of the best movies of 2023.

    [/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” link_option_url_new_window=”on” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]Buy Your Tickets on Sale to watch “John Wick: Chapter 4” playing in theaters starting March 24th[/et_pb_code][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

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  • Hectic Knife (2016)

    Hectic Knife (2016)

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    Born in 1986 in Detroit, Greg DeLiso moved to New York to attend the NYFA’s one-year directing program in 2004. After graduation, DeLiso got his first job shooting a music video for PBK’s song “Tout Va Bien.” Around 2010, he and his high school friend Peter Litvin worked on a series called Short Films for Nobody. In 2011, DeLiso directed his first feature-length film, the documentary Canada’s Best Kept Secret, which Litvin did the score for. Around this time, the two started brainstorming ideas for a parody of the recent dark, brooding superhero movie trend. Filming began in 2010 and took roughly four to five years to complete as they had a minimal budget. Once filming finished, they called Troma to make a deal for distribution, and a contract was drafted in a week. Greg DeLiso’s Hectic Knife was released to the world in July 2016.

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    Synopsis

    The city streets are riddled with crime, and the only one standing up is the vigilante Hectic Knife (Peter Litvin). Armed with knives, Hectic kills drug dealers and thieves while practicing his knife-wielding skills in his shabby apartment. He gets a roommate, Link (John Munnelly), and a girlfriend, Frannie Glooper (Georgia Kate Haege), who constantly annoys him. Meanwhile, the evil villain, Piggly Doctor (J.J. Brine), plans to rule the world with his sidekick Porch (Traci Ann Wolfe). Piggly’s ultimate plan is to make the heads of children spontaneously explode, and only Hectic Knife can stop him. Along the way, he’ll contend with bagel-obsessed thugs, reunite with his estranged father (Randy Hutch), and find his true self. Unbeknownst to him, his girlfriend has been stealing his money, and Link gets kidnapped by Piggly. It’s up to Hectic Knife to defeat Piggly Doctor and save children from having their heads explode.

     

    Review

    If how I described Hectic Knife makes it sound like one of the dumbest movies ever, that’s because it is. The movie is intentionally bad, but not in a way that feels like they didn’t try, like with Llamageddon. It feels like Greg DeLiso and Peter Litvin set out to make the stupidest film they could come up with. Hectic Knife is constantly brooding and insults everyone he encounters, even his girlfriend, to the point that it becomes funny. Much of the humor is predictable, and some of the jokes drag in a way similar to Adult Swim. As a parody, it does an excellent job satirizing the tropes of many superhero movies around the mid-2000s to 2010s. While a product of its low budget, the black-and-white look could be a parody of Sin City and The Spirit. That said, the cheap aesthetic adds to the film’s campy charm.

    The acting is all over the place, with almost everyone overacting for the camera, showing that this is a comedy. I wouldn’t call the acting bad, as everyone intentionally acts terribly, but your enjoyment will vary depending on your tolerance. While lacking in nudity, there’s plenty of blood and gore to satiate exploitation fans as everyone spews blood all over. The effects aren’t the greatest, but there’s the ambition behind them, especially when they add stop-motion and computer effects. Like the acting, the action sequences are intentionally bad, but it adds to the film’s humor. At slightly under 90 minutes, the film drags considerably at points, and plenty of scenes could’ve been cut. Still, this is a fairly impressive, occasionally funny parody of overly broody and self-serious superhero movies. Overall, Hectic Knife isn’t for anyone, but if thugs arguing over bagels for near eternity sounds funny, check it out.

     

    Buy Hectic Knife from Amazon: https://amzn.to/42y2UAs.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

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    Where to watch Hectic Knife (2016)

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  • Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023)

    Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023)

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    With an estimated $100 million budget, 2019’s Shazam! was a financial success, grossing nearly $366 million worldwide. In addition, the film garnered positive reviews, earning a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes for its performances and lighter tone. A sequel was to follow, and much of the original cast and crew announced their return in December 2019. While initially scheduled for an April 2022 release, the sequel was pushed back to November due to COVID-19. New cast members included Helen Mirren, Lucy Liu, and Rachel Zegler, who debuted in the 2021 West Side Story remake. The movie was shot in Atlanta from May 26 to August 31, 2021, with a budget of $125 million. Following WarnerMedia’s merger with Discovery Inc, the studio decided to replace the upcoming Aquaman sequel with this film. Finally, the long-awaited Shazam! Fury of the Gods hit worldwide theaters on March 17, 2023.

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    Synopsis

    Billy Batson (Angel Asher), as his alter ego Shazam (Zachary Levi), is having difficulty maintaining his adoptive family. The other siblings want to do their own thing, while Billy worries about being thrown out once he’s 18. On top of that, Billy gets a message from The Wizard (Djimon Hounsou), warning him about the Daughters of Atlas. Said daughters, Hespera (Helen Mirren) and Kalypso (Lucy Liu), possess the broken staff that gave Billy his powers. Meanwhile, Billy’s brother Freddy (Jack Dylan Grazer) meets a girl named Anne (Rachel Zegler), who is Atlas’s youngest daughter, Anthea. Hespera and Kalypso trap Philadelphia in a dome and steal the Golden Apple, the seed of the Tree of Life. When the sisters grow the tree, several monsters sprout throughout the city and attack the citizens. Billy and his “Shazamily” must band together to stop the sisters from plunging the world into darkness.

     

    Review

    What made the original film great was its mix of superhero action and a story about finding one’s family. With the sequel, that spark is missing, as it drags more into a generic by-the-numbers superhero spectacle. It doesn’t help that the “Shazamily” spends most of their time in their superhero form, which creates a weird disconnect. While the alter ego actors are reasonable, it doesn’t feel like we’re watching grown-up versions of the same characters. The exception is Jack Dylan Grazer, who gets the most character development and is easily the movie’s highlight. He has fantastic chemistry with Rachel Zegler, and his scenes with Djimon Honsou are funny. Meanwhile, Asher Angel only shows up two or three times, giving the majority of screen time to Zachary Levi. This disconnect and lack of balance ultimately hurt the film’s chances of matching the quality of the original.

    Helen Mirren and Lucy Liu do a decent job as the new villains but ultimately feel wasted. Djimon Hounsou’s return is welcome as he does a great job, but it makes his sacrifice in the original hollow. While there is some fun spectacle, especially seeing Shazam fight a giant dragon, it’s hard to care about what’s happening. Again, it goes back to the original, how the hero and villain have a similar backstory but different outcomes. While I’m not saying the sequel needed something similar, it lacked the depth and heart it had. This viewing experience is more fulfilling than Black Adam, which was even more generic, but that’s not saying much. Ultimately, this sequel disappoints, leaving one wondering what the future holds, given the eventual DC Universe reboot. Overall, Shazam! Fury of the Gods has some entertaining moments but at the cost of the original’s charm.

    [/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]Buy Your Tickets on Sale to watch ” Shazam! Fury of the Gods” playing in theaters starting March 17th[/et_pb_code][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

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  • VHS Massacre: Cult Films and the Decline of Physical Media (2016)

    VHS Massacre: Cult Films and the Decline of Physical Media (2016)

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    People have wanted to watch their favorite movies at home and share them with others for generations. In the late 1970s, the VHS (Video Home System) tape was introduced as a new way to watch content. In the 80s and 90s, VHS became the dominant video format, and numerous video stores popped up worldwide. Unfortunately, as time progressed and technology advanced, the need for physical media diminished in favor of digital content. While DVD, Blu-Ray, and 4K UHD are still around, most consumers are happy using their favorite streaming service. However, in the early 2010s, there was a sudden resurgence in the popularity of the VHS format. In 2012, Tom Seymour and Ken Powell began working on a documentary detailing the rise and fall of home video. After years of work, VHS Massacre: Cult Films and the Decline of Physical Media was released by Troma in 2016.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”80″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    Synopsis

    New York City film fans Tom Seymour and Ken Powell started a podcast about cult cinema and B-movies. During their show, they decided to create a series called VHS Massacre, where they find random tapes and riff them. Along the way, they conducted a series of interviews with cult film figures about home video’s impact and its decline. Subjects include genre journalist John Bloom, aka Joe Bob Briggs, Troma founder Lloyd Kaufman, and cult actress Debbie Rochon. They also chat with B-movie figures like Troll 2‘s Deborah Reed, Samurai Cop‘s Mark Frazer, and The Room‘s Greg Sestero. Sadly, almost every video store the documentarians visit closes shortly after, showing the decline in physical media. They discuss how streaming and the internet killed home media in some ways and the benefits of streaming. But the question remains: is there still life in VHS, or will physical media be phased out entirely?

     

    Review

    VHS Massacre has a lot going for it, first and foremost being the genuine passion and love for the subject. These guys have a love not just of movies but of VHS that shines throughout the documentary. You feel their excitement when they find an obscure tape in a small New York East Village store. Also, the interviews they get are highly entertaining and informative, detailing how the VHS boom helped independent filmmakers. We hear Lloyd Kaufman talk about how the conglomerates and media corporations ruined it for the independents. We also hear from fans of VHS, who show off their collections and talk about their appeal amongst collectors. A brief history of home video formats is discussed, from the VHS and Betamax rivalry to the rise of DVD. Interestingly, the documentary isn’t entirely one-sided since people like Joe Bob Briggs talk about the benefits of streaming.

    As well-intentioned as the documentary is, parts of it come off as somewhat scatterbrained, namely some of the subjects. One minute, they’re talking about VHS tapes they found, followed by an interview with Deborah Reed from Troll 2. As entertaining as the discussion is, it has nothing to do with the subject, which happens quite a bit. Someone will talk about physical media, then another random interview with cult film figures will be interjected. If they discussed the VHS release of Troll 2 or Samurai Cop, that would’ve been relevant, but it’s not mentioned. At 72 minutes, it’s quick, but you’ll wish they had discussed the rise and fall of physical media more. Still, this documentary does an excellent job of highlighting how physical media should be preserved and remembered. Overall, VHS Massacre: Cult Films and the Decline of Physical Media is a solid, if unfocused, documentary perfect for cinephiles.

     

    Buy VHS Massacre from Amazon: https://amzn.to/401TyuO.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

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    Where to watch VHS Massacre: Cult Films and the Decline of Physical Media (2016)

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  • Creed III (2023)

    Creed III (2023)

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    On a $50 million budget, Creed II was a commercial success, grossing $214 million worldwide, even outperforming its predecessor. Critically, while not as well-regarded as its predecessor, the sequel still saw favorable reviews, which naturally meant another sequel. In 2018, people suggested professional boxer Deontay Wilder could play the son of Clubber Lang, Rocky’s opponent from Rocky III. Michael B. Jordan announced a third entry in development in 2019, and in 2020, Oscar-nominated screenwriter Zach Baylin was hired. Later that year, it was announced that, in addition to starring, Jordan would also be making this his directorial debut. While Tessa Thompson, Phylicia Rashad, and Wood Harris returned, Sylvester Stallone announced in 2021 he wouldn’t return as Rocky. The movie was shot primarily in Atlanta between January and April 2022 on a budget of $75 million. After premiering in Mexico City, Creed III hit theaters in March 2023.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”85″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Three years after retiring from boxing, Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) runs the Delphi Boxing Academy to train future champions. When not running the gym, he’s spending time with his wife Bianca (Tessa Thompson) and daughter Amara (Mila Davis-Kent). One day, Creed gets a surprise from his old friend Damian Anderson (Jonathan Majors), who recently exited jail. Damian wants Creed to give him a chance at boxing, so Creed reluctantly has him spar at the gym. However, Damian gets aggressive while sparring and is thrown out, but Damian makes it clear he wants a title shot. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Damian gets a shot at fighting the world champion Felix Chavez (José Benavidez Jr.). He wins by fighting dirty, and Adonis learns of Damian’s true intentions and agrees to end his retirement to fight. Will Adonis put Damian in his place, or will Damian retain his world championship status?

     

    Review

    While it’s not as great as the original, Creed III easily surpasses the second installment in this spin-off series. First, Jonathan Majors continues to show he’s a force to be reckoned with by giving another fantastic performance. Thankfully, it’s an excellent performance in a good movie instead of a mediocre film like Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. The rest of the performances are equally outstanding, with Michael B. Jordan and Tessa Thompson doing their best work. Wood Harris also does an excellent job as Adonis’ coach Tony Evers, and Phylicia Rashad shines as Adonis’ adoptive mother. Admittedly, Sylvester Stallone is missed, but his exclusion helps make this series stand apart from the Rocky franchise. This installment firmly establishes that, while part of the Rocky series, this spin-off franchise can work on its own. Thankfully, there are enough references to past movies, so this feels like part of the same series.

    With this being his first time behind the camera, Michael B. Jordan showed great promise as a director. He makes the fight scenes more dynamic and fluid with its mix of slow-motion and extreme close-ups. The best part is the fight between Adonis and Damian, where the audience disappears, and the focus is on them. There’s no music, no cheering, nothing but the deep breathing of the two boxers squaring off. It is a well-staged sequence, and it feels like the culmination of all the backstory we’re given on their relationship. The story is incredibly riveting as we explore more of Adonis’ childhood and his guilt over abandoning his old friend. My only complaint is that it does feel predictable at points, but that could be symptomatic of the franchise’s formula. Overall, Creed III is another knockout in this long-running franchise that shows a lot of potential for the future.

    [/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]Buy Your Tickets on Sale to watch “Creed III” playing in theaters starting Mar 3rd[/et_pb_code][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

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  • Cocaine Bear (2023)

    Cocaine Bear (2023)

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    In December 1985, convicted drug smuggler Andrew C. Thornton II threw several bags of cocaine from an airplane. While Thornton died due to a faulty parachute, some of the cocaine was found by a black bear in Georgia. Sadly, the bear passed away, and its body was found three months later, along with 40 plastic containers of cocaine. In December 2019, filmmakers Phil Lord and Christopher Miller announced they were producing a horror-comedy inspired by the true story. The film was based on a script by writer Jimmy Warden, and Universal announced the project’s development in 2021. They announced actress Elizabeth Banks would be directing, having previously helmed Pitch Perfect 2 and the 2019 Charlie’s Angels reboot. The movie was shot in County Wicklow, Ireland, from April to October 2021 on a $30-35 million budget. After another year of post-production, Cocaine Bear hit theaters in February 2023.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”70″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    A massive shipment of cocaine is dropped from an airplane and lands in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. The drugs are found by a black bear, who ingests the cocaine and starts attacking local hikers. Meanwhile, Tenessee detective Bob (Isiah Whitlock Jr.) is investigating and determines it belonged to drug dealer Syd White (Ray Liotta). Over in St. Louis, Syd sends his fixer Daveed (O’Shea Jackson Jr.) to go to Georgia and retrieve the coke. Daveed meets with Syd’s depressed son Eddie (Alden Ehrenreich) to search for the lost drugs, with Bob soon behind them. In Georgia, local nurse Sari (Keri Russell) is looking for her daughter Dee Dee (Brooklynn Prince), who ran off. With help from Dee Dee’s friend Henry (Christian Convery), she searches for her missing daughter, the bear running rampant. Will Sari rescue her daughter, will Syd get the drugs, and who will survive against the Cocaine Bear?

     

    Review

    Cocaine Bear is one of those movies where it can’t seem to decide what it wants to be. Is it trying to be a fun, gore-filled horror-comedy about a coked-out bear killing people? Or does it want to be a serious yet comedic movie about various characters being drawn together by the bear? Of the 95-minute runtime, about 10-15 minutes of it is devoted to the bear going on a rampage. For all the crazy bear stuff, we have to watch these human characters meander about and settle their plotlines. You get the impression that Elizabeth Banks might’ve wanted to go the more extreme route only to dial it back. To their credit, the actors all do a decent job of taking this ridiculous movie seriously, which makes it funnier. The biggest standouts are O’Shea Jackson Jr and Alden Ehrenreich, who have some great and forths.

    Keri Russell isn’t terrible as the mother trying to find her daughter, but she comes off as somewhat bland. Ray Liotta, who sadly passed away after filming, has some entertaining moments, though he isn’t in the movie much. The rest of the supporting cast has a few moments, but none stand out memorably except for Isiah Whitlock Jr. Most audiences watch this movie for the coked-out bear, which it delivers on, even if the CGI bear sticks out. Granted, the digital effects aren’t terrible, and some decent practical gore is sprinkled in, so that helps. Still, people expecting the movie to be just like the trailer and poster might be disappointed. Sure, there are the over-the-top bear scenes you hope for, but there’s not enough to live up to the hype. Overall, Cocaine Bear has some B-movie thrills, but it’s padded chiefly with tons of filler.

    [/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]Buy Your Tickets on Sale to watch “Cocaine Bear” playing in theaters starting Feb 24th[/et_pb_code][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

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  • Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)

    Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]On an estimated budget of $162 million, Ant-Man and the Wasp grossed over $622 million worldwide in 2018. Following its critical and commercial success, Peyton Reed agreed to return for a third installment around November 2019. Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Douglas, and Michelle Pfeiffer announced their return alongside newcomers Jonathan Majors and Kathryn Newton. Jeff Loveness, who previously wrote for The Office and Rick and Morty, was hired to write in early 2020. Initial filming started in February 2021 in the Turkish region of Cappadocia, along with additional filming in San Francisco. Principal photography was done at Pinewood Studios between July and November 2021, followed by an extensive post-production period in 2022. The film was supposed to be released in February 2023, then was pushed to July before returning to February. After premiering at the Regency Village Theater, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania hit theaters worldwide on February 17th.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”50″ bar_bg_color=”#E09900″ _builder_version=”4.23.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Having helped save humanity, Scott Lang/Ant-Man (Paul Rudd) lives with his girlfriend Hope van Dyne/The Wasp (Evangeline Lilly). While visiting her parents Hank (Michael Douglas) and Janet (Michelle Pfeiffer), Scott’s daughter Cassie (Kathyrn Newton) has some exciting news. She’s developed a machine that can send a signal down to the Quantum Realm, which makes Janet panic. While they shut it off, the message is received, and the gang is sucked into the Quantum Realm. Scott and Cassie run into a group of rebels while Hope, Hank, and Janet try to find answers. After trying to find help from Janet’s old friend Lord Krylar (Bill Murray), she reveals a horrible secret. She says she met Kang (Jonathan Majors), who she helped, before learning that he’s a megalomaniacal maniac bent on conquest. Now, it’s up to our heroes to help the rebels stop Kang from escaping the Quantum Realm.

     

    Review

    Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania is, by far, one of the most ambitious films of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While undoubtedly commendable, maybe this film is a bit too ambitious for its own good. Before going into my issues, the movie has qualities that work, namely some of the performances. Undoubtedly, Jonathan Majors is the highlight as Kang the Conqueror, playing a cold and calculating villain with occasional outbursts. He’s easily one of the best villains in the MCU, alongside Tom Hiddelston’s Loki and Josh Brolin’s Thanos. Also, Michelle Pfeiffer is given more to do and an opportunity to remind us why she’s such an accomplished actress. Paul Rudd is likable as always, Evangeline Lilly works well off him, and newcomer Kathryn Newton is a welcome addition. While Michael Douglas and Bill Murray are decent, they both feel wasted in this. Plus, Corey Stoll’s inclusion feels pointless.

    From a visual standpoint, the effects are otherworldly and weird, like a cross between Star Wars and Heavy Metal magazine. The creatures and people of The Quantum Realm have a distinct style, each looking more bizarre than the last. Unfortunately, all this ambition and flair is a disservice to the first two movies, which felt more down to earth. Part of the appeal of the Ant-Man movies was how the titular character was more of a blue-collar hero. Sure, they’re about a man with size-changing abilities who commands an army of ants, but they felt grounded. This film is so out there and wild that it doesn’t even feel like it’s in the same universe. While the movie has some great performances and unique visuals, the whole film is a very underwhelming experience. Overall, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania is mid-tier at best, which might be worse than terrible.

     

    Buy Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3UzWJtA.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

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