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Category: Action

  • Honor Killing (2018)

    Honor Killing (2018)

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    An “honor killing” refers to someone killed for a perceived dishonor against a family, either an outsider or a member. Men usually commit these acts against women, which is common in Middle Eastern countries like Pakistan and India. These are often triggered by refusing an arranged marriage, wanting a divorce, being a rape victim, or even homosexuality. While the act is generally frowned upon in most parts of the world, honor killings are heralded in certain countries. Mercedes the Muse, the actress/c0-writer of Rose and Viktor: No Mercy, decided to tackle this subject. This film would be her directorial debut, taking inspiration from Thriller: A Cruel Picture and I Spit on Your Grave. She intended to empower women and speak on a controversial subject with the typical sleaze found in grindhouse movies. In early 2018, Troma released Mercedes’ directorial debut, Honor Killing.

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    Synopsis

    While walking home from the library, a young woman (Mercedes the Muse) is assaulted and raped by some gang members. Upon returning home, she asks her mother (Virginia Puccio) for help but is ostracized for bringing shame to the family. Her father (Sam Lopez) shoots her in the eye and leaves her for dead, only for her to reawaken. After recovering, the woman hires bounty hunter Viktor (Jim Schumacher) to train her to use weapons and hurt people. With her training, she kills the men who raped her and plans on getting revenge against her father. She also saves a prostitute (Vivi Marie), a stripper (Erin Shimokawa), and a biker babe (Soma Stardust) from abusive men. She even runs into a cult led by a deranged man (Cash Hann) and rescues the women under his influence. Soon, her father will get his comeuppance for his honor killing!

     

    Review

    Honor Killing is a narrative mess of a film, but it has ambition and a message to tell. While it does borrow from several other rape-revenge films, it helps that it’s based on something happening in real life. The most significant comparison would be Thriller: A Cruel Picture, from the one-eyed lead to them hunting their father. But while Mercedes tries her best, the movie doesn’t entirely work, primarily due to the poor cinematography and inconsistent acting. So many scenes are shot so close, and the camera shakes so much that it’s hard to tell what’s happening. It makes sense for the more intense moments, but even the ordinary scenes are like this, and it’s disorientating. Most of the acting is flat, with actors underacting and saying their lines like they’re reading off cue cards. Even Mercedes, despite her efforts, doesn’t sound convincing when she’s trying to be tough.

    Much like Rose & Viktor, most of this film consists of random vignettes that don’t necessarily tie together. It’s cool to see our hero save a prostitute from an abusive pimp, but it doesn’t advance the story. Also, aside from the rape that sets everything in motion, most of the violence is pretty tame, which is surprising. I’m not saying a rape-revenge film needs to be super gory, but this is a lot lighter than you’d expect. Part of the appeal of these films is seeing rapists and abusers getting punished in satisfyingly brutal ways. There are a few decent kills, but don’t expect anything like the castration from I Spit on Your Grave. The movie feels padded at just barely over an hour, so this might’ve worked better as a short film. Overall, Honor Killing certainly tries, but it doesn’t quite hit the mark. 

     

    Buy Honor Killing from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3q7ivs0.

    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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  • Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 (2023)

    Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 (2023)

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    On a $200 million budget, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 was a massive hit, grossing over $863 million worldwide. Like its predecessor, the film also garnered many positive reviews, earning an 85% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. While writer/director James Gunn was initially reluctant about returning, he announced his return in April 2017. Gunn had been working on the initial draft and getting the original cast back when he was fired in 2018. Marvel/Disney removed Gunn after some old tweets were dug up, and an independent campaign was started supporting Gunn. Shortly after Warner Bros. announced Gunn would direct The Suicide Squad, Marvel/Disney rehired Gunn, and preproduction began in 2021. The movie was shot in Atlanta’s Trilith Studios from November 2021 to May 2022 on a $250 million budget. After premiering in April 2023, Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 was released worldwide the following May.

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    Synopsis

    After getting hit by a massive laser blast, Rocket Racoon (Bradley Cooper) is barely clinging to life. Nebula (Karen Gillan) determines that whoever made Rocket the way he has had a killswitch installed that prevents treatment. She traces the origins of the killswitch to Orgocorp, an intergalactic company headed by The High Evolutionary (Chukwudi Iwuji). With help from the Ravagers and Gamora (Zoe Saldana), the Guardians infiltrate Orgocorp’s headquarters, the Orgoscope, to find the override. During the adventure, a dying Rocket relives his past: being experimented on, seeing his friends killed, and making his escape. While searching for the killswitch override, the Guardians travel to Counter-Earth, a planet built by the High Evolutionary. With their friend’s life in jeopardy, it’s up to the Guardians to save Rocket’s life and stop the High Evolutionary. It’s the Guardians’ farewell tour, and they plan on going out with a bang!

     

    Review

    Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 stumbles slightly for being the final installment, but it also succeeds in several ways. For one, it’s great that we learn more about Rocket’s tragic backstory and how it plays into the film’s present. Also, like the previous installments, the motivation is deeply personal, in this case, saving a dear friend. Once again, James Gunn’s writing and directing are on-point, mixing snappy quips with heartfelt, dramatic moments, all with vibrant colors. The returning cast delivers solid performances, with Pom Klementieff, Karen Gillan, Dave Bautista, and Zoe Saldana standing out. Chukwudi Iwuji is phenomenal as the High Evolutionary, playing a cold, calculating megalomaniac that’s easy to hate. Admittedly, he starts losing his menace whenever he screams and shouts in an over-the-top fashion that makes him less threatening. Also, William Poulter isn’t terrible as Adam Warlock, but he feels wasted.

    Sadly, this movie lacks the unique charm of the first two, especially with the “adventure comedy set in space” trope. Months prior, we had Thor: Love and Thunder and Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania, both adventure comedies in space. What made the first film so special back in 2014 has been done to death at this point. That said, what makes this better than those is that this film does a better job of balancing the tone. This film knows when to be funny and when to hold off on jokes, so an emotional scene plays out. This one ends with big action sequences like other Marvel movies, but they feel more personal and less hollow. At two and a half hours, parts of the film feel bloated, which could’ve been trimmed with more editing. Overall, Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 has some issues, but it’s a satisfying-enough finale.

    [/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.21.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Buy Your Tickets on Sale to watch “Guardians of the Galaxy” playing in theaters starting May 3rd![/et_pb_code][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.21.0″ _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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  • Rose and Viktor: No Mercy (2017)

    Rose and Viktor: No Mercy (2017)

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    Originally from the California Salinas Valley, a filmmaker known only as “Moses” started a small studio called The Underground Front. With a strong sense of anti-establishment and a lack of good taste, the studio produces shorts, feature films, and comics. In 2008, Moses directed his first film, a documentary called Transcend, about a struggling filmmaker named Armando Gonzales. He followed this up with 2010’s Exploited, which starred fetish model Mercedes the Muse, who helped found The Underground Front. At some point, Moses and Mercedes’ work caught the attention of Troma Entertainment and Lloyd Kaufman. Troma agreed to distribute their next film, a grindhouse-style anthology with some influence from Bonnie & Clyde. Mercedes would star alongside Jim Schumacher, the bass player for the heavy metal band Brocas Helm since 1982. In 2017, Moses’ Rose and Viktor: No Mercy was released by Troma in June 2017.

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    Synopsis

    After his band breaks up, bass player Viktor (Jim Schumacher) decides to be a gun-for-hire that kills people for money. Along his travels, he runs into a young runaway named Rose (Mercedes), who her father sexually abused. After castrating her father (Samuel Lopez), Rose joins Viktor as they go around dispensing bloody justice for the right price. They take on a sleazy strip club owner (Michael Sundin), who’s been skimping on the money he owes his girls. An old lover of Viktor’s wants him to kill her husband, a war veteran who sees everyone as a terrorist. As they slaughter their targets, Viktor and Rose hook up with various groupies, get high, and reunite with old friends. At one point, a kid hires Viktor and Rose to eliminate The Pope (Charles Darwin Hepburn). The two set out for The Vatican on what might be their most dangerous job yet.

     

    Review

    Going into Rose and Viktor: No Mercy, I had no idea what to expect other than pure cinematic trash. It seems like Moses and crew wanted to make the most trashy exploitation film possible, and they mostly succeeded. Imagine putting Pink Flamingos and Natural Born Killers in a blender, mixing in acid, and that barely sums this up. This film isn’t concerned with having a compelling story, award-winning acting, decent cinematography, or any good taste. If there’s a taboo, it’s put on full display, whether it’s golden showers, violent sodomy, or sexualized fascism. To their credit, the effects are decent despite the low budget, and there are plenty of wince-inducing sequences. If the gross, taboo-shattering imagery doesn’t put you off, the technical shortcomings will make this unwatchable. Granted, it’s hard to judge the film’s technical qualities considering there’s a chance the filmmakers didn’t care.

    The camera shakes constantly, and tons of zoom-ins and outs make it hard to see what’s happening. Also, the filmmakers added a digital film scratch to emulate an old grindhouse film, but it feels distracting. The acting isn’t great, but I suspect most of the dialogue was dubbed in post, considering the audio quality. In their defense, Jim Schumacher and Mercedes are having an excellent time and make a great duo. Plus, several segments have a unique look to emulate different film styles, like 30’s noir and 60’s drug movies. You can tell there is artistic merit underneath all the grime and grit; even trashiness is an art. While this film is not for everyone, it’s so bizarre and unlike anything else that it’s oddly compelling. Overall, Rose and Viktor: No Mercy is rough around the edges, but its imperfections make it stand out boldly.

     

    Buy Rose and Viktor: No Mercy from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VtC2Pe.

    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.

    [/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=”95″ 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=”4.16.0″ _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=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    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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  • 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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  • Enemy Territory (1987)

    Enemy Territory (1987)

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    1986’s Eliminators had one of Empire Pictures’ biggest openings, grossing over $4 million at the box office. Following its relative success, Peter Manoogian was working on Deadly Weapon, which was meant to be a sequel to Laserblast. Charles Band’s then-wife, Debra Dion, gave Manoogian a script to read from Stuart Kaminsky, a writer known for pulp novels. The screenplay was initially set in Chicago, but because of Band’s deal with Tim Kincaid, the setting became New York. While Kincaid and his wife Cynthia De Paula were used to $100,000 shoots, Manoogian’s budget went up to $850,000. For the cast, Manoogian hired TV actor Gary Frank, Ray Parker Jr. of Ghostbusters fame, and former star Jan-Michael Vincent. The original DOP, Arthur D. Marks, was replaced by Ernest Dickerson, who had just worked on She’s Gotta Have It. In the end, Enemy Territory got a limited theatrical release in May 1987.

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    Synopsis

    Due to his alcoholism, Barry Rapchick (Gary Frank) has fallen on hard times as an insurance salesman. Down on his luck, his boss sends him to a rundown apartment complex to sign over a significant insurance policy. He meets with the elderly Elva (Frances Foster), who signs for the insurance and wishes Barry luck as he tries to leave the building. Unfortunately, Barry runs into The Vampires, the gang that controls the building, along with their leader, The Count (Tony Todd). He orders his goons to kill Barry, but he’s rescued by telephone worker Will Jackson (Ray Parker Jr). They run into Elva’s granddaughter Toni (Stacey Dash), who suggests they meet Vietnam veteran Mr. Parker (Jan-Michael Vincent). Meanwhile, The Count puts a hit out on Barry and Will for the gang members they’ve killed trying to escape. Barry’s job isn’t the only thing in danger when he enters Enemy Territory!

     

    Review

    Enemy Territory is as far removed as possible from other movies from Empire Pictures, like Re-Animator, Trancers, and Ghoulies. In a way, that works to help makes this film stand out from the rest of Charles Band’s library. Director Peter Manoogian and cinematographer Ernest Dickerson do a great job capturing the raw grit of 1980s New York. Even before Barry enters the apartment complex, the movie has this grimy, gritty, lived-in feel but with some 80s flair. This would make a great double feature with urban crime films like Exterminator 2 and Tenement. As simple as the story is, it touches on some relevant themes, such as redemption, racial tensions, and class warfare. A white businessman enters a rundown complex ruled by a gang leader who uses their struggles to take control. The themes practically write themselves with that kind of synopsis.

    What also makes this film work is a cast of memorable character actors giving it their all. Gary Chalk is great as the meager insurance salesman trying to reclaim his status at any cost. However, the real star is Ray Parker Jr., who shows he can be a capable lead and a skilled musician. It’s a shame this didn’t lead to more starring roles for Parker, but at least he has those Ghostbusters residuals. The always great Tony Todd shines as the ruthless gang leader, The Count, chewing tons of scenery while remaining intimidating. Jan-Michael Vincent has a few moments as a Vietnam veteran who uses a wheelchair, but he’s strung out on something. While not high art, it’s still an entertaining thrill ride that proves Empire Pictures was willing to branch out. Overall, Enemy Territory is a highly underrated action thriller in desperate need of a Blu-ray release.

     

    Watch Enemy Territory on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fGzI9sNG0lY.

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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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  • Lust for Freedom (1987)

    Lust for Freedom (1987)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    Following the closing of the Robinson Mine, the citizens of Ely, Nevada, formed The Bristlecone Film Committee in 1983. The committee advertised their town as an ideal filming location, which caught the attention of producer/director Eric Louzil. Louzil contacted the committee in 1984 to use Ely as the filming location for a women-in-prison movie, Georgia County Lock-up. Filming started in 1985 on a $1.5 million budget, with many locals serving as cast and crew. About 30% of the film was shot in Nevada, while the rest of the filming took place in California. In 1986, Louzil met with Lloyd Kaufman, who agreed to add $125,000 for sound, additional filming, and converting to 35mm. In exchange, Troma would get distribution rights to the film, which included theatrical and home video. After premiering at Cannes in 1987 as Lust For Freedom, the film hit theaters the following year.

    [/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=”55″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _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=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    After an undercover drug bust went wrong, police detective Gillian Kaites (Melanie Coll) mourns the death of her partner/fiance. She goes on a road trip to try and forget what happened and is taken to the Georgia County police. Kaites meets with Sheriff Coale (William J. Kulzer), who spikes her drink and frames her for possessing illegal substances. She wakes up in prison with several other women who’ve been captured and thrown in jail for bogus reasons. Coale and his partner, Ms. Pusker (Judi Trevor), subject the prisoners to torture and abuse. In addition, Warden Maxwell (Howard Knight) sells the girls off to the highest bidder and makes snuff porn. Having witnessed all the abuse she and the other prisoners have suffered, Kaites decides to start a jailbreak. She’ll make sure her fellow prisoners have the same lust for freedom that she does.

     

    Review

    Lust For Freedom is as bare bones as you can get with a women-in-prison movie, and that’s not bad. This movie is exactly what you want if you’re looking for gratuitous nudity, massive explosions, and gun violence. Unfortunately, that’s about all this movie offers because the rest is pretty bland and not as bombastic as it promises. To his credit, it feels like Louzil wanted to make a legitimate exploitation film rather than an intentionally campy flick. Like Fortress of Amerikkka, which came out two years later, this movie plays it reasonably straight. All the actors play their parts like they’re in a legitimate drama, with no one going too over the top. This is Melanie Coll’s only acting credit to date, and it’s easy to see why since she’s not very memorable. It’s not that she’s terrible, but she doesn’t stand out from everyone else.

    William J. Kulzer, who gave a stand-out villainous performance in Louzil’s later film, is surprisingly subdued here. What’s more surprising is that he goes from being a bad guy to becoming one of the good guys later. Opposite Kulzer is Judi Trevor, who seems to be trying to stand apart from everyone else with her performance. She tries to be intimidating and over-the-top, but it doesn’t quite work when the rest of the movie is uninteresting. There’s plenty of T&A, but it feels less like a trashy exploitation flick and more like soft-core porn. The soundtrack keeps this movie mildly entertaining, especially the title track and “Rock You To Hell” by Grim Reaper. Combined with all the nudity and explosions, the music enhances this film’s cheesy B-movie quality. Overall, Lust For Freedom has some entertaining elements, but it’s mostly a forgettable watch.

     

    Buy Lust For Freedom from Amazon: https://amzn.to/4jR7ink.

    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 Lust for Freedom (1987)

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  • Violent Night (2022)

    Violent Night (2022)

    [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=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]In 2020, Universal bought the rights to a script by Pat Casey and Josh Miller of Sonic the Hedgehog fame. The genesis of this script came from a decades-long debate: is Die Hard a Christmas movie? With this in mind, they wrote an action movie like the Bruce Willis classic that was undeniably a Christmas movie. In the director’s chair was Tommy Wirkola, most famous for his Dead Snow movies and Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters. For the role of the violent Santa, David Harbour of Stranger Things fame was hired, though he was initially reluctant. What drew him to the script was that amidst the bloody violence was a message about the spirit of Christmas. With the rest of the cast in place, filming lasted from January to March 2022 in Winnipeg. After premiering at New York Comic Con in October, Violent Night hit theaters nationwide in December.

    [/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=”80″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _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” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    Synopsis

    Santa Claus (David Harbour) contemplates quitting at an Irish pub on Christmas Eve, given how rotten the kids have become. Elsewhere, Jason Lightstone (Alex Hassell), his estranged wife Linda (Alexis Louder), and their daughter Trudy (Leah Brady) visit his family. Gathered at the mansion of his foul-mouthed mother, Gertrude (Beverly D’Angelo), are Jason’s sister Alva (Edi Patterson), and her family. Santa eventually arrives at the mansion, only to see the staff executed by mercenaries led by “Mr. Scrooge” (John Leguizamo). Scrooge and his cohorts are there to steal the $300 million that Gertrude stole from her own company. Using a walkie-talkie, Trudy tells Santa what’s going on, so he reluctantly attacks the mercenaries, killing them off one-by-one. As Santa’s rampage continues, Scrooge wonders if he’s the real deal as he tries to eliminate the jolly would-be hero. These bad guys better watch out because Santa Claus is comin’ to town!

     

    Review

    Since the trailer was first dropped, Violent Night has gotten much attention based solely on the ridiculous premise. Well, I’m here to let you know that this movie is exactly what you think it is, and it’s fantastic. First, David Harbour gives one of his best performances as a disgruntled Santa, questioning whether or not he should continue. Not only does he deliver when it comes to the action, but he adds tons of humanity to the role. Also noteworthy is Leah Brady as Trudy, the young girl who still believes in Santa even when things are bad. The relationship she and Harbour build gives the film much more heart than expected from such a bloody movie. As the villain Scrooge, John Leguizamo chews through the scenery and has a blast playing this larger-than-life character. The scenes between him and Harbour are easily the film’s best parts.

    As the marketing would lead you to believe, this is one violent and bloody Christmas film. This isn’t surprising, considering that David Leitch, who directed Deadpool 2 and Bullet Train, produced the movie. Like those movies, the action is very fluid, well-shot, and well-choreographed, making them a spectacle to behold. The action sequences complement the story, especially when we learn little tidbits about Santa’s history as a Viking warrior. If I had any complaints, I’d say that most other characters feel more like caricatures than actual people. Aside from Trudy’s parents, none of the other characters are likable, though that may have been the intent. Also, despite the film clocking in at under two hours, a good 5-10 minutes could’ve been trimmed without ruining anything. Overall, Violent Night is a bloody, violent, and surprisingly heartfelt Christmas movie that will get you in the holiday spirit.

     

    Buy Violent Night from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3AlPDBZ.

    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 Violent Night (2022)

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  • V for Vendetta (2006)

    V for Vendetta (2006)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=”Special Review” subhead=”This review is a special request from Patreon supporter Patrick Glauber. If you’d like to support me on Patreon, click the button below.” text_orientation=”center” button_one_text=”Visit Patreon” button_one_url=”https://www.patreon.com/filmnerd” background_overlay_color=”#f96854″ _builder_version=”4.19.0″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ background_color=”#f96854″ custom_button_one=”on” button_one_bg_color=”#052d49″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”25px||25px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]In 1988, producer Joel Silver bought the rights to two of Alan Moore’s works, V for Vendetta and Watchmen. After the Silver-produced Road House was a relative success, writer Hilary Henkin worked on an initial draft. In the mid-90s, The Wachowskis, fans of the comic, started working on a script before making The Matrix. After the production of the last two Matrix movies wrapped, The Wachowskis offered James McTeigue the director’s chair. For the role of V, James Purefoy was initially cast but was replaced by Hugo Weaving due to creative differences. McTeigue cast Natalie Portman after meeting her on the set of Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones. Principal photography took place in London and Potsdam from March to June 2005 and was cinematographer Adrian Biddle’s last film. After premiering at the Butt-Numb-A-Thon in December 2005, V for Vendetta opened in US theaters in March 2006.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”90″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.19.0″ _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=”4.27.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    In the year 2020, Britain has become the world’s superpower under the rule of Chancellor Adam Sutler (John Hurt). While the rest of the populace has become complacent, one man known only as “V” (Hugo Weaving) opposes them. After rescuing a young woman named Evey Hammond (Natalie Portman), he takes her as his apprentice. With Evey’s help, “V” assassinates a group that previously worked at the Larkhill Detention Facility, conducting experiments on prisoners. Under orders from Sutler, Chief Inspector Eric Finch (Stephen Rea) is assigned to investigate and try to apprehend “V.” During his investigation, Inspector Finch learns that the government he serves engineered a virus to help bring them to power. Meanwhile, Evey ends up betraying “V” only to be locked in prison for her association with “V.” Britain will never be the same as November 5th approaches, when “V” executes his final plan.

     

    Review

    While most mid-2000s comic book movies were mediocre to below average, V for Vendetta is among the best. Admittedly, there are numerous differences between the film and its source material, which will upset hardcore fans of the book. Despite its considerable differences, the movie captures the book’s spirit and recontextualizes it for modern audiences. The film manages to tackle government repression, totalitarianism, and other sociopolitical issues while also being an entertaining action movie. Speaking of action, James McTeigue creates stylishly fluid sequences that feel like ballet acts as “V” slices through his enemies. Admittedly, there aren’t very many action scenes, but the ones we get are exciting to help advance the story. This comic book movie is more concerned with delivering a compelling story than having many fights. Even if Alan Moore was disappointed with the final result, The Wachowskis did a great job adapting the book.

    Hugo Weaving does a phenomenal job as the titular hero, though it’s disappointing what happened with James Purefoy. Natalie Portman delivers one of her best performances as Evey Hammond, a young woman who goes through a dramatic change. We see her go from a reluctant accomplice to being beaten and tortured until emerging as a strong government oppressor. Stephen Rea also goes through a similar change, albeit more subtly, as he digs deeper into what his government did. The rest of the supporting cast, including John Hurt, Stephen Fry, Tim Pigott-Smith, Roger Allam, and Sinéad Cusack, are excellent. At slightly over two hours, parts of the film drag, but the story is compelling enough to keep audiences invested. Even if it’s not the most faithful adaptation, this is still an excellent comic book movie with a thought-provoking story. Overall, V for Vendetta is a modern-day classic of comic book action.

     

    Buy V for Vendetta from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3AFe6lH.

    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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