Colossal

Sorry for the long absence, I have been dealing with some bad health issues. But let's get to this film, because I have some things to say. This is not a comedic film, which was what I was expecting. The trailers would have you believe it is, but it is in actuality very, very dark. It starts somewhat dark, gets darker, has a few witty moments, and then dives full-on into some pretty serious stuff. I feel like writer/director Nacho Vigalondo wanted to make something funny with a bit of darkness, which is a combination that works well. But, instead, he made a very dark and disturbing film with some bizarre moments of levity that were definitely out of place, and I found the occasional humor a bit unsettling. Having said all that, the actual meat of the story is quite good. It's daring, interesting, and it's brought to life with knock-out performances from Hathaway and Sudeikis. As the film barrels towards what becomes an inevitable and tragic end, I found myself wishing Vigalondo had just dived in and really dedicated himself to the darkness of this story, because it would have been amazing. Instead, I found myself both wowed and confused, so a mixed bag here for me. 3/5

Colossal on Netflix

Free Fire

Frankly, I'm not sure what to make of this film. There really is no plot. There are barely characters, and certainly no real character development. I actually don't think there's a single likeable character in this. On the other hand, it's directed really well and I had a lot of fun watching it. It's witty action comedy, but little else. If you'd like a bit of fun, this might be for you, but if you're looking for any real depth, look elsewhere. 3/5

Free Fire on Netflix

Wild Oats

I loved the first half of this charming comedy. Lange and MacLaine are both splendid in it, and sexy as hell to boot. The second half, though, turned into more of a crime caper which I felt derailed the charm of the first half a bit too much. Still, a really fun movie with some great comedy moments. 4/5

Wild Oats on Netflix

The Nice Guys

Shane Black penned another smash with this hilarious noir dramedy. Gosling and Crowe have amazing chemistry, and Gosling's comedy had me in stitches half the film. The script was snappy, the direction tight and well-paced, and the plot was intricate and well woven. There wasn't a thing wrong with this film - it hit on all cylinders. Loved it! 5/5

The Nice Guys on Netflix

American Ultra

As Jesse Eisenberg is a fantastic actor who makes great movie choices I will literally watch anything that he's in, and rarely be disappointed. This action comedy was no exception. It was witty, quirky, action packed, and had great performances from everyone. And yes, that includes Kristen Stewart, who was surprisingly effective in this. Definitely a good time. 4/5

American Ultra on Netflix

Ant-Man

This installment in the Marvel franchise is witty & pithy but terribly thin on plot and continuity. Good, not great. 3/5

Ant-Man on Netflix

Let's Be Cops

This is a funny idea that was well-acted throughout and made me laugh, even if the script was a bit shallow. 3/5

Let's Be Cops on Netflix

Kill Me Three Times

I don't get the negative reviews - I thought this action comedy was smart, stylish & funny with good acting. 4/5

Kill Me Three Times on Netflix

22 Jump Street

I admit it, I laughed out loud for a lot of this, I found it well acted & really funny. Good sequel. 4/5

22 Jump Street on Netflix

Welcome to the Jungle

I thought this would be silly but still good fun, but no, just really ridiculous & badly acted. Bleh. 2/5

Welcome to the Jungle on Netflix

The World's End

I was far more interested in the movie it started as than what it became - a lost opportunity I think. 3/5

The World's End on Netflix

This Is the End

Seth Rogen is a god for making this hilarious comedy that was LOL worthy - McBride & Cera are insanely funny. 4.5/5

This Is the End on Netflix

Get the Gringo

There's nothing wrong with this fun action flick, but it just didn't have that spark that made me love it. 3/5

Get the Gringo on Netflix

Old Men in New Cars

This Danish black comedy started out farcical but turned too zany & screwball for me to believe. 2.5/5

Old Men in New Cars on Netflix

Here Comes the Boom

A true feel-good movie - Kevin James did his own fighting in this rousing action comedy. Really fun! 3.5/5

Here Comes the Boom on Netflix

Fanboys

I totally get why this film is a cult classic & the cameos were truly excellent - I only wish it had been wittier. 3.5/5

Fanboys on Netflix

21 Jump Street

I think I would have liked this better with a different name - it was funny with decent action & good acting. 3/5

21 Jump Street on Netflix

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World

Given how I dislike Cera, I am utterly shocked at how much I liked this - it was great fun. 4/5

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World on Netflix

Defendor

There's nothing wrong with this film but nothing that stood out either, particularly with so many of this type out. 3/5

Defendor on Netflix

Attack the Block

What an awesome, fun, well directed and well acted little movie this is! Surprised it didn't get more love. 4/5

Attack the Block on Netflix