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Carrie (2013)
A Must-see Classic for Sci-fi Fans
Carrie is a 2013 supernatural horror film directed by Kimberly Peirce and based on Stephen King's 1974 novel of the same name. The movie stars Chloë Grace Moretz as the titular character, a high school student with telekinetic powers who becomes the victim of relentless bullying and abuse at the hands of her peers.
Like the original film, the 2013 version of Carrie explores the themes of adolescence, bullying, and religious fanaticism. However, this version takes a more contemporary approach, with a greater emphasis on the role of social media and the impact that it has on modern-day bullying.
One of the film's greatest strengths is the casting of Chloë Grace Moretz in the lead role. Moretz brings a vulnerability and emotional depth to the character of Carrie that is crucial to the success of the film. Her performance is both heart-wrenching and terrifying, capturing the character's isolation and despair, as well as her growing rage and power.
The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Julianne Moore as Carrie's mother, Margaret White. Moore's performance is a standout, as she manages to convey the character's religious zealotry and mental instability in a way that is both disturbing and sympathetic.
The rest of the cast is solid as well, particularly Gabriella Wilde and Portia Doubleday as the popular girls Sue and Chris, respectively. Their portrayals of the cruel and manipulative bullies who torment Carrie are chilling and effective, and their actions drive much of the film's plot.
The film's direction and cinematography are also noteworthy. Kimberly Peirce uses a combination of traditional and found footage to tell the story, and her use of slow motion and close-ups adds to the film's sense of tension and unease. The prom sequence, in particular, is a standout moment in the film, as Peirce builds to a shocking and tragic climax that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.
One of the film's strengths is its exploration of the impact of social media on modern-day bullying. The use of YouTube and Facebook to disseminate humiliating videos of Carrie is a clever update to the original story, and it provides a new level of horror and realism to the film. The way in which the videos go viral, with people around the world sharing and commenting on them, serves as a potent reminder of the destructive power of social media.
Another strength of the film is the way in which it explores the relationship between Carrie and her mother. In the 2013 version, Margaret White is more sympathetic than in the original, with the film providing greater context for her extreme religious beliefs and her abusive behavior towards her daughter. This makes the final confrontation between the two characters all the more poignant, as it becomes a tragic story of a mother and daughter torn apart by their own demons.
Despite its many strengths, the 2013 version of Carrie is not without its flaws. The film occasionally veers into melodrama, particularly in its treatment of certain characters and plot points. The film also struggles to balance its exploration of the impact of social media with the more traditional elements of the story, and the two sometimes feel at odds with each other.
Overall, however, Carrie is a strong and effective horror film that captures the essence of Stephen King's original novel while updating it for a modern audience. Chloë Grace Moretz's performance is a standout, and the film's exploration of the impact of social media on bullying is both timely and effective. While the film may not be as iconic as the original 1976 version, it is a worthy adaptation that stands on its own as a compelling and unsettling horror movie.
Carrie (1976)
A Timeless Classic
Carrie is a 1976 American supernatural horror film directed by Brian De Palma and based on Stephen King's novel of the same name. The movie stars Sissy Spacek as the titular character, Carrie White, a shy and introverted high school student who discovers she has telekinetic powers.
Carrie's story is set in a small town in Maine, where she lives with her overly religious mother, Margaret White (played by Piper Laurie). Carrie is bullied and ostracized by her peers at school, and her home life is equally traumatic due to her mother's strict and abusive behavior. When she experiences her first period in the school shower, Carrie is humiliated by her classmates and becomes the target of a cruel prank that leads her to unleash her telekinetic powers in a devastating way.
One of the movie's greatest strengths is its ability to tap into the anxieties of adolescence and the horrors of bullying. The film effectively captures the emotional turmoil that Carrie experiences as she struggles to fit in with her peers, and the tragic consequences that result from the constant harassment and ridicule she endures. The bullying scenes are difficult to watch, but they serve an important purpose in showing the audience just how desperate and powerless Carrie feels in her situation.
In addition to its exploration of teenage angst and bullying, the film also touches on themes of religious fanaticism and the dangers of repression. Margaret White's character embodies the extremes of religious zealotry, and her strict adherence to her beliefs causes her to subject her daughter to physical and emotional abuse. While the film doesn't delve too deeply into the complexities of religious belief, it does provide a powerful critique of the dangers of unchecked fanaticism.
Sissy Spacek's performance as Carrie is nothing short of remarkable. She perfectly captures the character's shyness and vulnerability, but also the simmering anger and resentment that build up inside of her over time. The scene in which she unleashes her powers on her tormentors at the prom is unforgettable, and Spacek's ability to convey both the horror and the catharsis of the moment is a testament to her skill as an actor.
The supporting cast is also excellent, particularly Piper Laurie as Margaret White. Her portrayal of the overbearing and abusive mother is chilling, and she manages to convey the character's misguided love for her daughter alongside her toxic and destructive behavior. The rest of the cast, including Nancy Allen as the popular mean girl Chris and John Travolta as her boyfriend Billy, are also effective in their roles as the instigators of Carrie's suffering.
The film's direction and cinematography are also noteworthy. Brian De Palma's use of split-screen and slow motion adds to the film's sense of tension and unease, while also providing a surreal quality to certain scenes. The prom sequence, in particular, is a masterclass in suspenseful filmmaking, building to a shocking and tragic climax that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.
Overall, Carrie is a timeless classic that still holds up as one of the best horror movies ever made. Its exploration of adolescence, bullying, and religious fanaticism is as relevant today as it was in 1976, and its unforgettable performances, direction, and cinematography make it a must-see for fans of the genre. While the film may not be for everyone due to its intense and graphic nature, it remains an important work of art that continues to captivate and terrify audiences to this day.
Nine Perfect Strangers (2021)
Nice TV Mini-series
Nine Perfect Strangers is a limited television series that was released on Hulu in 2020. Based on the novel of the same name by Liane Moriarty, the show follows nine strangers who come together at a luxurious health resort in the hopes of improving their lives.
The show is led by an impressive cast, including Nicole Kidman, Melissa McCarthy, Luke Evans, and Michael Shannon. Kidman plays Masha, the owner of the resort, who claims to have developed a revolutionary new method for improving people's lives. McCarthy plays Francis, a woman struggling with obesity and low self-esteem, while Evans plays Ben, a charming and successful writer who is struggling with writer's block. Shannon plays Tony, a gruff and skeptical man who is at the resort to support his wife, who is struggling with addiction.
The other characters at the resort include Lars, a wealthy businessman who is struggling with a midlife crisis; Zoe, a young woman who is recovering from an eating disorder; Napoleon, a former soldier with PTSD; and Yvette, a woman who is dealing with the recent loss of her husband. Each of these characters has their own personal struggles and motivations for being at the resort, and as the show progresses, we see them all begin to confront and work through their issues.
The show does an excellent job of exploring the complex and often conflicting emotions that each of the characters are dealing with. Through the use of flashbacks, we see glimpses of each character's past and the events that have led them to the resort. We also see the dynamic between the characters change and evolve as they begin to open up to one another and form unlikely friendships.
One of the most compelling aspects of the show is the way it handles the issue of mental health. Each of the characters is struggling with some form of mental illness or emotional issue, and the show does an excellent job of depicting the challenges and stigma that often come with these issues. It also highlights the importance of seeking help and the transformative power of therapy and self-care.
Another interesting aspect of the show is the way it explores the concept of wellness and the lengths people will go to in order to improve their lives. Masha's methods at the resort are unorthodox and often border on the extreme, and we see the characters struggle with whether or not to trust her and follow her teachings. The show does a good job of raising questions about the true nature of happiness and the extent to which we are willing to go to achieve it.
Overall, Nine Perfect Strangers is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged television series that tackles important issues such as mental health and the pursuit of happiness. The strong performances from the cast and the well-written characters make it a must-watch for anyone interested in these themes.
The Snowman (2017)
A well-made thriller!
The Snowman is a 2017 crime thriller film directed by Tomas Alfredson and based on the novel of the same name by Jo Nesbø. The film follows detective Harry Hole, played by Michael Fassbender, as he investigates a series of murders in Oslo, Norway, that are seemingly connected to the appearance of a snowman at each crime scene.
The film also stars Rebecca Ferguson as Katrine Bratt, a police officer working with Harry on the case, and Charlotte Gainsbourg as Rakel, Harry's ex-girlfriend and the mother of his child. The Snowman also features an ensemble cast of supporting actors, including J. K. Simmons, Val Kilmer, and Chloë Sevigny.
As Harry and Katrine work to uncover the identity of the serial killer, they encounter several twists and turns that keep the audience guessing until the film's shocking conclusion.
One of the standout elements of The Snowman is its cinematography, which beautifully captures the snowy landscapes of Norway and the tension-filled moments of the investigation. The performances of the cast, particularly Fassbender and Ferguson, are also strong, with the two actors displaying a natural chemistry on screen.
Overall, The Snowman is a well-made and suspenseful thriller that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats until the very end. While the film may not be for everyone due to its dark subject matter and graphic violence, it is definitely worth a watch for fans of the crime genre.
Cobra Kai: Ouroboros (2022)
Nostalgic and engaging!
Cobra Kai is a martial arts drama television series that premiered on YouTube Red (now known as YouTube Premium) in 2018. The show, created by Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg, and Josh Heald, is a sequel to the 1984 film The Karate Kid, and takes place 34 years after the events of the movie. The show follows the story of Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka), the main antagonist of the original film, as he reopens the Cobra Kai dojo and begins teaching karate to a new generation of students.
The series begins with Johnny, now in his 50s and struggling with alcoholism, poverty, and a series of failed relationships. He is approached by Miguel Diaz (Xolo Maridueña), a high school student who is being bullied at school. Johnny takes pity on Miguel and begins teaching him karate, eventually reopening the Cobra Kai dojo and taking on more students.
One of Johnny's main rivals is Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), the protagonist of The Karate Kid. Daniel, now a successful car salesman and family man, is initially hesitant to get involved with the reopening of Cobra Kai, but ultimately agrees to train with his old mentor, Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita in the original film, played by a different actor in the series due to Morita's death).
As the series progresses, Johnny and Daniel's rivalry is reignited, and the two men's respective dojos, Cobra Kai and Miyagi-Do Karate, become embroiled in a series of conflicts and competitions. The show also explores the relationship between the two men and their students, as well as their own personal struggles and relationships.
One of the standout aspects of Cobra Kai is its ability to balance drama, humor, and action. The show has received praise for its well-developed characters and engaging storylines, as well as its faithful representation of the themes and messages of the original Karate Kid film. The show also features appearances by several original cast members, including Elisabeth Shue as Ali Mills, Martin Kove as John Kreese, and Randee Heller as Lucille LaRusso.
In addition to its main cast, Cobra Kai features a strong supporting cast of characters, including Amanda LaRusso (Courtney Henggeler), Daniel's wife and business partner; Samantha LaRusso (Mary Mouser), Daniel and Amanda's daughter; Robby Keene (Tanner Buchanan), Johnny's estranged son; and Aisha Robinson (Nichole Brown), one of Johnny's students. Each of these characters has their own unique arc and contributes to the overall narrative of the series.
The show has been a critical and commercial success, with a dedicated fan base and high viewership on YouTube. It has won several awards, including a Critics' Choice Television Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for William Zabka in 2019. The show has also been renewed for a fourth season, which is set to premiere in 2022.
Overall, Cobra Kai is a highly entertaining and well-crafted series that manages to pay homage to the original Karate Kid film while also standing on its own as a compelling and emotionally resonant story. Its engaging characters, action-packed martial arts sequences, and compelling drama make it a must-watch for fans of the original film and newcomers alike.
Cobra Kai (2018)
Fairly Entertaining!
Cobra Kai is a fantastic television series that is a must-watch for fans of the Karate Kid movies. It takes place several decades after the events of the original films and follows the story of Johnny Lawrence, the antagonist from the first movie.
The show does an excellent job of blending nostalgia with fresh, new storylines, and the acting is top-notch. The characters are well-developed and likable, and the plot is engaging and full of twists and turns.
One of the things that sets Cobra Kai apart is its ability to strike a balance between drama and humor. It has plenty of heartwarming and emotional moments, but it also has a great sense of humor and manages to inject some levity into even the most serious situations.
Overall, Cobra Kai is a fantastic show that is a must-watch for fans of the Karate Kid movies or anyone who enjoys a well-written and acted drama.
The Pledge (2001)
Well worth a watch!
The Pledge is a 2001 psychological thriller film directed by Sean Penn and starring Jack Nicholson, Robin Wright, and Aaron Eckhart.
In the film, Nicholson plays Jerry Black, a retiring detective who becomes obsessed with solving the murder of a young girl. Wright plays the girl's mother, while Eckhart plays the prime suspect in the case.
The Pledge is a tense and atmospheric film, with Nicholson giving a standout performance as the troubled and haunted Jerry Black. The film's plot is complex and twisty, keeping the viewer guessing until the very end. The cinematography is also excellent, with some striking shots of the Nevada landscape.
Overall, The Pledge is a well-made and engaging thriller that is well worth a watch. If you're a fan of Nicholson or psychological thrillers in general, you won't be disappointed.
The Great Gatsby (2013)
A Must-read Novel!
The Great Gatsby is a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald that was first published in 1925. Set in the summer of 1922, the novel tells the story of Nick Carraway, a young man from the Midwest who moves to New York to work in the finance industry. As Nick becomes embroiled in the world of the wealthy and privileged on Long Island, he becomes caught up in the tumultuous personal life of his mysterious neighbor, Jay Gatsby.
One of the most notable strengths of The Great Gatsby is its rich and complex portrayal of the world of the wealthy elite in the 1920s. Fitzgerald paints a vivid and detailed picture of the lavish parties, opulent mansions, and decadent lifestyle of the time, and uses this setting to explore themes of love, greed, and the corrupting influence of wealth.
Another notable strength of the novel is its well-developed and complex characters. Gatsby, in particular, is a richly drawn and enigmatic figure, whose mysterious past and troubled present are revealed gradually throughout the story. The other characters, including Nick, Daisy, Tom, and Jordan, are also well-written and fully realized, with their own motivations, desires, and flaws.
Fitzgerald's writing style is also noteworthy, with lyrical and evocative prose that captures the atmosphere and mood of the time period. The novel's themes of disillusionment, the loss of innocence, and the corruption of the American Dream are explored with insight and depth, and the novel's sense of nostalgia and longing for a bygone era adds an additional layer of poignancy.
Overall, The Great Gatsby is a timeless and enduring work of literature that remains as relevant and resonant today as it was when it was first published. Its richly drawn characters, vivid setting, and thought-provoking themes make it a must-read for fans of classic literature.
Sliver (1993)
You guys need to read the original novel too!
Sliver is a psychological thriller novel by Ira Levin that was first published in 1991. The novel tells the story of Carly Norris, a young woman who moves into a high-rise apartment building in New York City called Sliver, only to discover that the building's owner, Zeke Hawkins, is secretly installing cameras and monitoring the residents' every move. As Carly investigates the strange goings-on in the building and becomes increasingly suspicious of Zeke's motives, she finds herself drawn into a web of deceit and danger.
One of the main strengths of Sliver is its compelling and fast-paced plot, which keeps the reader guessing and on the edge of their seat throughout the story. The novel's portrayal of the high-rise building as a microcosm of society, with its complex web of relationships and power dynamics, adds depth and intrigue to the story. The character of Zeke Hawkins is also well-developed and intriguing, with his motivations and true identity being revealed gradually as the story progresses.
Levin's writing style is also notable, with concise and engaging prose that keeps the story moving at a steady pace. The novel's themes of voyeurism, power, and manipulation are explored in a thought-provoking and timely manner, and the novel's twists and turns keep the reader engaged until the very end.
Overall, Sliver is a well-written and suspenseful novel that is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seat. Its intriguing plot, compelling characters, and timely themes make it a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers.
The Godfather (1972)
Classic Mafia Movie!
The Godfather is a classic film that has received widespread critical acclaim for its performances, writing, direction, and overall impact on the film industry.
One of the most notable strengths of The Godfather is its cast, which includes powerhouse performances from Marlon Brando as the titular character, Vito Corleone, and Robert De Niro as his son, Michael. Both actors deliver nuanced and complex portrayals of their characters, with Brando's portrayal of the aging and increasingly vulnerable Vito being particularly noteworthy. The supporting cast is also strong, with memorable performances from the likes of James Caan, Diane Keaton, and Al Pacino.
The writing in The Godfather is also noteworthy, with sharp and intelligent dialogue that serves to deepen the characters and advance the plot. The film's portrayal of the inner workings of the Corleone family and the world of organized crime is both convincing and engrossing, and the film's themes of loyalty, family, and power are explored in a thoughtful and nuanced manner.
Director Francis Ford Coppola does an excellent job of bringing The Godfather to life, with strong visual storytelling and a commanding sense of style. The film's cinematography, art direction, and music are all top-notch, and the film's use of violence is judicious and effective in conveying the consequences of the characters' actions.
Overall, The Godfather is a masterfully crafted film that has rightfully earned its place as a classic of the gangster genre and a benchmark for cinematic excellence.
Basic Instinct (1992)
Classic!
"Basic Instinct" is a 1992 neo-noir erotic thriller film directed by Paul Verhoeven and written by Joe Eszterhas. The film stars Michael Douglas, Sharon Stone, and George Dzundza and follows a police detective, Nick Curran (Douglas), who is investigating the murder of a wealthy rock star. During the investigation, he becomes romantically involved with the main suspect, Catherine Tramell (Stone), a crime novelist with a reputation for being a manipulator.
The film was a commercial success and received mixed reviews upon its release. Some praised the acting, particularly Stone's performance, and the film's suspenseful plot, while others criticized its depiction of violence and sexual content. The film's depiction of bisexuality and bisexual relationships was also controversial, with some accusing the film of being homophobic and stigmatizing bisexuality.
Overall, "Basic Instinct" is a well-known and influential film that is remembered for its controversial themes and Sharon Stone's iconic performance. However, whether or not someone enjoys the film will depend on their personal preferences and tolerance for explicit content.
Tell Me Lies (2022)
Not so bad!
Well, everyone is entitled to their opinions. For me, it's not so bad. I like the Macy character but she dies so early. Lucy is cute and sexy. All the sex scenes explain why she is so obsessed with this toxic relationship. Also, I'm looking forward to Season 2.
I skimmed through the novel, and here are my quick reviews about it:
"Tell Me Lies" is a novel by Carola Lovering that was published in 2018. The novel follows a relationship between Lucy Albright and Stephen DeMarco as it unfolds over the course of 8 years after meeting at college.
It feels like the novel explores themes of love, relationships, and the passage of time. It may also delve into the complexities of human emotions and the ways in which people can be both honest and dishonest with themselves and each other.
It is worth noting that reviews of the novel have been generally positive, with many praising the writing style and character development. Some readers may find the exploration of relationships and emotions to be relatable and thought-provoking, while others may find the plot and themes to be less engaging. Ultimately, whether or not someone enjoys the novel will depend on their personal preferences and experiences.
Summoned (2013)
Not Bad
I like Summoned. It's the thrill genre I enjoy. Ashley was pretty back then.
Prey (2021)
Scanning it
I am watching it but seeing all the reviews here are not good. I decide to scan the entire movie...