Went with my kids. They loved it. I also enjoyed it. A lavish production (for Dutch standards), good actors, a story full of wit and laughs. It's worth your money. See this with your kids!
Reviews
21 Reviews
The Suicide Squad
(2021)
Not so smoking gunn;deep cover cameo?
6 August 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I just loved and cared for the characters. Even the rotten ones. Further more; there is no story set-up explanation (We already know the drill); just fun bloodsoaked character driven action. This movie feels fresh because of the "R" rating; we can see the characters in their full colorfull glory. This is why we go to the movies! It is a joy to watch! 👾Cameo alert!!!; Is that Josh Brolin in the militairy truck?
Wonder Woman 1984
(2020)
Expensive Indie
27 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This is not a bad movie. Far from that. It's just not a production you aspect from the DC/WB banner. It is not for everyone. Making it for everyone means in most cases; toning down your own vision. And that they did not do. They took a risk.
Just like they did with Joker. I know a lot of people who don't like the Joker with Joaquim Phoenix. They think it is to violent. Initially it is (mother's) love that drives the Joker. He loses it, just like Diana and just like Diana he does not get the help from mankind. But Diana has an upbringing that never let her down. That is why she can tolerate the world. Joker is made by a director with a clear vision and so is WW 1984; They did not go for the populair vote.
I saw 1984 as a way for Diana to get over Trevor in man(kinds) most ambitious and business wise most ruthless era: the 1980's. When according to mr Gekko: "Greed was good". A time were there was no room for female business power. Trevor appears in 1984, as if they want to show us what went missing in men, when greed was good. Is that the thing Diana also misses in the men from the 80's? Diana is not needed in the end because the antagonist is his own worst enemy.
Just like they did with Joker. I know a lot of people who don't like the Joker with Joaquim Phoenix. They think it is to violent. Initially it is (mother's) love that drives the Joker. He loses it, just like Diana and just like Diana he does not get the help from mankind. But Diana has an upbringing that never let her down. That is why she can tolerate the world. Joker is made by a director with a clear vision and so is WW 1984; They did not go for the populair vote.
I saw 1984 as a way for Diana to get over Trevor in man(kinds) most ambitious and business wise most ruthless era: the 1980's. When according to mr Gekko: "Greed was good". A time were there was no room for female business power. Trevor appears in 1984, as if they want to show us what went missing in men, when greed was good. Is that the thing Diana also misses in the men from the 80's? Diana is not needed in the end because the antagonist is his own worst enemy.
Behind Her Eyes
(2021)
Binge your brains out.
22 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
My utter misknowledge of recent literary work, led to an unique experience while watching this series; it was so fresh and surprising. And to an certain extend, believable. On the other hand; why read if so many books are being translated into excellent tv/netseries.
I once had an experience with a form of astral projection, but it was brief and certainly not planned. It led me to do my own little research on this phenomenon. I found a clip of a documentary of a patiënt, who while being operated on, could see everything what was happening to him. But here it was called; Out of body experience (OBE) . Is it the same? I don't know. But It is real.
But to control it and utilise it? I would not dare;
Luckily this show aired on Netflix; It could have been a crappy concept series, but it succeeds in delivering what it promised. It reminds me of classic horror movies like Fallen with Denzel Washington, Invasion of the bodysnatchers, the version with Kevin McCarthy and the one with Donald Sutherland and the Skeleton key with Kate Hudson.
I recommend this to anyone who likes a character driven thriller/horror in the spirit of Alfred Hitchcock.
I once had an experience with a form of astral projection, but it was brief and certainly not planned. It led me to do my own little research on this phenomenon. I found a clip of a documentary of a patiënt, who while being operated on, could see everything what was happening to him. But here it was called; Out of body experience (OBE) . Is it the same? I don't know. But It is real.
But to control it and utilise it? I would not dare;
Luckily this show aired on Netflix; It could have been a crappy concept series, but it succeeds in delivering what it promised. It reminds me of classic horror movies like Fallen with Denzel Washington, Invasion of the bodysnatchers, the version with Kevin McCarthy and the one with Donald Sutherland and the Skeleton key with Kate Hudson.
I recommend this to anyone who likes a character driven thriller/horror in the spirit of Alfred Hitchcock.
Peninsula
(2020)
What a joy!
14 August 2020
Train to Busan had some screenings at our local arthouse in the Hague, Holland. Peninsula is the main event at our Imax theater! How the tables have turned!
We saw this movie yesterday in an adjusted 'social distant' cinema complex. This movie is an absolute popcorn nacho cheese with salsa joy, from the beginning untill the end!
Is it because of the current state of our world that this virus- themed flick had me laughing and crying? Hell yes!! That's what movies supposed to do!! And this one just nails it!!
The minus 2 is for some overdramatic scenes and occasional peak at what clearly is a CG car. But that's just picking the nit folks, because it is a fastpaced movie; the distractions are barely noticeable.
We saw this movie yesterday in an adjusted 'social distant' cinema complex. This movie is an absolute popcorn nacho cheese with salsa joy, from the beginning untill the end!
Is it because of the current state of our world that this virus- themed flick had me laughing and crying? Hell yes!! That's what movies supposed to do!! And this one just nails it!!
The minus 2 is for some overdramatic scenes and occasional peak at what clearly is a CG car. But that's just picking the nit folks, because it is a fastpaced movie; the distractions are barely noticeable.
Bad Boys for Life
(2020)
New life.
27 February 2020
I saw the first one, on a schoolday. With a schoolmate in 1995. I went for the ride. The movie, along with the soundtrack, became a part of my transition to an adult. When the second one came out, I felt cheated, somehow.
I wanted to go for the ride. I just could not. It felt as if the second one did not grow with me.
Last week I went to an Imax screening of the third installment. I went a long for the ride. Without pushing myself. Reminiscing the first one and I had the greatest time in a movietheater. The characters matured somehow. I got far more than I expected. This movie is even better than the first one. And way better than the second.
Last week I went to an Imax screening of the third installment. I went a long for the ride. Without pushing myself. Reminiscing the first one and I had the greatest time in a movietheater. The characters matured somehow. I got far more than I expected. This movie is even better than the first one. And way better than the second.
1917
(2019)
Palpable.
2 February 2020
This movie was so overwelming. The Imax screen and sound along with the outlandish and frankly groundbreaking camerawork just added to the experience. The tension was palpable and consistent. Very little time for breathing. Like a horror movie. A 2 hour non stop thrill ride, with few tension release moments.
At the bridge scene, I just could not take it anymore. My heart could not stop pounding. My BP went up the sky. This felt so real. I went home. I needed a little bag to breathe. My wife called the doctor. They sent an ambulance!! I could not fight in a war. I know that, because I was in one yesterday. And I felt like almost dying of the tension alone.
How real does a movie experience has to be? I saw my first movie in 1983, in a small theater in a small village, I think it was Banana Joe. We still had the afternoon matinees which starred Bud Spencer and Terence Hill. Dirty dancing and Moonwalker were big hits. Yes Moonwalker. We can hate this movie all we want now, but a lot of kids liked this movie, back in the time. It all changed with my first war movie: Hamburger hill , then came born on the fourth of july (yes in that order, some movies were screened late) Platoon and of course Full metal jacket. Which I found difficult to watch. And still feels very real. Especially the first part. I saw Apocalypse now some 10 years later... on a small screen...then came Saving private Ryan and so forth. But this is the first time I had to call an ambulance. I wanted to see the remaining 45 min. But the paramedics ordered me to see badboys 3 instead.
Next week Schofield and Blake...I will risk an attack to stand beside you. But who will be the last man standing? Stay in the frame, please.....
At the bridge scene, I just could not take it anymore. My heart could not stop pounding. My BP went up the sky. This felt so real. I went home. I needed a little bag to breathe. My wife called the doctor. They sent an ambulance!! I could not fight in a war. I know that, because I was in one yesterday. And I felt like almost dying of the tension alone.
How real does a movie experience has to be? I saw my first movie in 1983, in a small theater in a small village, I think it was Banana Joe. We still had the afternoon matinees which starred Bud Spencer and Terence Hill. Dirty dancing and Moonwalker were big hits. Yes Moonwalker. We can hate this movie all we want now, but a lot of kids liked this movie, back in the time. It all changed with my first war movie: Hamburger hill , then came born on the fourth of july (yes in that order, some movies were screened late) Platoon and of course Full metal jacket. Which I found difficult to watch. And still feels very real. Especially the first part. I saw Apocalypse now some 10 years later... on a small screen...then came Saving private Ryan and so forth. But this is the first time I had to call an ambulance. I wanted to see the remaining 45 min. But the paramedics ordered me to see badboys 3 instead.
Next week Schofield and Blake...I will risk an attack to stand beside you. But who will be the last man standing? Stay in the frame, please.....
Hustlers
(2019)
Let it marinade.
17 September 2019
Oh this is some good stuff. After a long time I was swept off my feet by a story this engaging.
I have to be honest: I did not want to see this movie at all. I saw this movie because it was movietime in my busy work/family schedule and I had to choose between this movie or the Lion King or no movie at all. The last one is not an option. And I had already seen the Lion King in 1994.
I was pleasantly surprised by the unique narrative device they used to tell the story. The female bonding between the main characters had such a impact on me. It's the heart of the story.
And yes they (the main characters) weren't that fancy in their manners. They had a questionable moral compass, to say the least. But it was triggered by something in their lives/situation.
It seems that moviegoers are underrating this movie, because of the (im)moral compass of the main characters. If morality is a measuring device for the quality of movies, at least their (the hustlers) moral code was more koosjer then that of the main characters of Wallstreet, the wolf of wallstreet and Goodfellas. And those movies get better moviegoer ratings hmmm..why is that.. I wonder....
A nomination is in order for Lopez, Wu and the director/ writer, if you will dear academy. They deserve it.
Moviegoer, If you hated it. See it again after a while. Let it marinade. You'll love it..
I have to be honest: I did not want to see this movie at all. I saw this movie because it was movietime in my busy work/family schedule and I had to choose between this movie or the Lion King or no movie at all. The last one is not an option. And I had already seen the Lion King in 1994.
I was pleasantly surprised by the unique narrative device they used to tell the story. The female bonding between the main characters had such a impact on me. It's the heart of the story.
And yes they (the main characters) weren't that fancy in their manners. They had a questionable moral compass, to say the least. But it was triggered by something in their lives/situation.
It seems that moviegoers are underrating this movie, because of the (im)moral compass of the main characters. If morality is a measuring device for the quality of movies, at least their (the hustlers) moral code was more koosjer then that of the main characters of Wallstreet, the wolf of wallstreet and Goodfellas. And those movies get better moviegoer ratings hmmm..why is that.. I wonder....
A nomination is in order for Lopez, Wu and the director/ writer, if you will dear academy. They deserve it.
Moviegoer, If you hated it. See it again after a while. Let it marinade. You'll love it..
Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown
(2013–2018)
Let there be light!
10 March 2019
This storm known as Bourdain, blew away my livingroom and changed how I view, television forever. The respect and honesty you brought in each show together with your personality made your work so unique. You made your shows recognicible: We share a good and honest conversation, while sharing food. And that is universal. You made a show about this simpel fact. There is only 1 Bourdain. Let there be Light J.C.!
Alita: Battle Angel
(2019)
Rosa Salazar!
17 February 2019
Warning: Spoilers
In my humble opinion, the movie works because of Rosa Salazars delicate performance. My 3 d glasses were covered in tears (that heart scene!) That counts for something right? She's the reason I want to see this movie again. And her performance is motion captured! Respect to the digi-wizards; her eyes/emotion combination: that's a new standard!
Her version of Alita, makes me forget all the little discrapencies in the story. A story which is very familiar, just like Avatar and Titanic, but memorable because of the performances.
Rodriguez has a different approach to the material than Cameron. Rodriguez works with what he has and Cameron invents a new filmlanguage. Some hardcore fans wanted Camerons version/vision. I am one of them. But look on the bright side; at least there is a movie now. We waited 19 years for this. (Comic fans even longer) Rodriguez is the next best thing, in terms of an own vision. And there is more to come, If this one makes money (according to Cameron); Alita fallen angel and Alita avenging angel. Maybe he's in for directing duties on the latter?
Her version of Alita, makes me forget all the little discrapencies in the story. A story which is very familiar, just like Avatar and Titanic, but memorable because of the performances.
Rodriguez has a different approach to the material than Cameron. Rodriguez works with what he has and Cameron invents a new filmlanguage. Some hardcore fans wanted Camerons version/vision. I am one of them. But look on the bright side; at least there is a movie now. We waited 19 years for this. (Comic fans even longer) Rodriguez is the next best thing, in terms of an own vision. And there is more to come, If this one makes money (according to Cameron); Alita fallen angel and Alita avenging angel. Maybe he's in for directing duties on the latter?
Soni
(2018)
As it should be
30 January 2019
You have to fill in the gaps.
To understand this movie, is to understand
how the Indian male dominated culture works. Even with out free thinking for everyone, a nation could grow bigger and bigger, that's true. But they will never take one step. Inclusion is the magic word.
Brawl in Cell Block 99
(2017)
That Niro!
1 January 2019
This is a demanding dramatic performance by Vince Vaughn. An actor mostly known for his comic-ish performances.
Equally impressive was his performance in True Detective. I hope he continues to treat the moviegoer with these mesmerizing performances. His intense characterization in combination with his physique tells us that there might be greatness hidden in this man. More!!
Equally impressive was his performance in True Detective. I hope he continues to treat the moviegoer with these mesmerizing performances. His intense characterization in combination with his physique tells us that there might be greatness hidden in this man. More!!
Native American aliens.
5 November 2018
The bit where John tries to dance like a white man, in Trumperica, but fails after a couple of latin oriëntated songs are being played, is an instant classic. Another funny and heartfelt reminder, that free thinking only works, if everybody is included.
The Girl in the Spider's Web
(2018)
POWER AND BRAINS.
27 October 2018
As if they were preparing for a James Bond-like franchise, the filmmakers implemented a somewhat repeatable, set-up in the screen story. They also toned down the graphic scenes, which are effective and in service of the story, rather than blunt and unnecessary. This is the first time I had the feeling, that Lisbeth is not a secret obscene fantasy of a male writer.
This is a movie, I could watch with my 13 year old cousin (rated 12 in my country and not 16, like its predecessors): Humble to see a character like Lisbeth using her wits to be at 2, sometimes 3 places at the same time, exploring a somewhat uncharted side of humanity's broad spectrum and by doing so, inspiring someone you care about, like she has not been inspired before.
This is a movie, I could watch with my 13 year old cousin (rated 12 in my country and not 16, like its predecessors): Humble to see a character like Lisbeth using her wits to be at 2, sometimes 3 places at the same time, exploring a somewhat uncharted side of humanity's broad spectrum and by doing so, inspiring someone you care about, like she has not been inspired before.
Anthony Bourdain A Cook's Tour
(2002–2003)
Once were warriors.....
28 July 2018
This is were it all started. This storm known as Bourdain, blew away my livingroom and changed how I view, television forever. The respect and honesty you brought in each show together with your personality made your work so unique. You made your shows recognicible: We share a good and honest conversation, while sharing food. And that is universal. You made a show about this simpel fact. There is only 1 Bourdain. Let there be Light J.C.!
Veere Di Wedding
(2018)
Men will lose.
27 July 2018
A big bollywood movie about our real lives. The lower an IMDB rating on a Bollywood film is, the better the movie. Especially, in this case. The men portrayed in this movie are men I know. The women portrayed in this movie are also women I know. I can relate to the characters. That's something special for a big budget Bollywood movie.
So, are the men in this movie more feminine and the women more masculine, read: promiscuous? No, because life and sharing life has nothing to do with gender sentiments. It is about equality in sharing everything. And let's be honest; on a physical and mental level, a woman will always outdo a man, on, for instance; exploring her sensuel side. That has nothing to do with ill behavior or copying a man. It's biology. It's healthy. It is human. It is what you will get in a growing economy. And that is what all the men (and some women!!??),who slammed this movie on IMDB are afraid of.
So, are the men in this movie more feminine and the women more masculine, read: promiscuous? No, because life and sharing life has nothing to do with gender sentiments. It is about equality in sharing everything. And let's be honest; on a physical and mental level, a woman will always outdo a man, on, for instance; exploring her sensuel side. That has nothing to do with ill behavior or copying a man. It's biology. It's healthy. It is human. It is what you will get in a growing economy. And that is what all the men (and some women!!??),who slammed this movie on IMDB are afraid of.
Sacred Games
(2018–2019)
Speak up!
24 July 2018
For Indian cinema this is something special. For cinema in general: not so special. It gets a high rating because of all the Indian(related) IMDB members. Anurag finally cut ties with the Indian certification system. This is a huge and important step for free speech in Indian cinema.
Jupiter Ascending
(2015)
Why?
10 May 2015
Warning: Spoilers
This movie is not "the Matrix" and it doesn't have to be. This could have been a great popcorn movie. But the biggest problem here is Mila Kunis' performance. In a short period of time her character undergoes irrational changes. Mila Kunis, the actress reacts at these moments as if here favorite perfume is not for sale anymore.
We have to believe the characters within the context of a story (these are not my words).Even if the character is underdeveloped or relies heavily on effects. Her character is the backbone of the story. Usually if a character has to convince you what she/he is, the shortcomings of the actor are aided by the fact that he can do extraordinary things, like Keanu Reeves in the Matrix, or Chris Hemsworth in Thor. But Mila Kunis character is not aided by effects or choreography. She has to make a difference with here acting skills. She could not convince me that Earth's faith is in her hands.
For instance Gloria Fosters character in Matrix is underdeveloped. She represents something that is just irrational to grasp. But you knew in that instant that she was the Oracle. She has nothing to aid her in the believability of her character, no effects, just cookies. And yet you believe she is something more. She makes you forget the shortcomings in the writing of her character You can say the same of Linda Hamiltons character in "the Terminator". For me here performance makes the story believable. You know she is part of something bigger. What if Linda Hamilton's character was played by Mila Kunis, Terminator would be just a movie with a nice concept. Nobody would notice the other characters, because their wouldn't be a connection with the main character. Just like in "Jupiter ascending".
We have to believe the characters within the context of a story (these are not my words).Even if the character is underdeveloped or relies heavily on effects. Her character is the backbone of the story. Usually if a character has to convince you what she/he is, the shortcomings of the actor are aided by the fact that he can do extraordinary things, like Keanu Reeves in the Matrix, or Chris Hemsworth in Thor. But Mila Kunis character is not aided by effects or choreography. She has to make a difference with here acting skills. She could not convince me that Earth's faith is in her hands.
For instance Gloria Fosters character in Matrix is underdeveloped. She represents something that is just irrational to grasp. But you knew in that instant that she was the Oracle. She has nothing to aid her in the believability of her character, no effects, just cookies. And yet you believe she is something more. She makes you forget the shortcomings in the writing of her character You can say the same of Linda Hamiltons character in "the Terminator". For me here performance makes the story believable. You know she is part of something bigger. What if Linda Hamilton's character was played by Mila Kunis, Terminator would be just a movie with a nice concept. Nobody would notice the other characters, because their wouldn't be a connection with the main character. Just like in "Jupiter ascending".
Heart Street
(2014)
Swans stay together..
18 January 2015
Hartenstraat or heart street is set in one of the most famous blocks in Amsterdam. Everyone who ever visited Amsterdam, surely took a stroll in one of these streets. It always had a sense of wonder, something larger than life.
Sanne Vogel, whose articles I enjoyed in "de filmkrant, a Dutch movie magazine ,captures this perfectly. She creates here own world in these streets. Something similar to what Richard Curtis and Roger Michell did for "Nothing Hill",
It is one of the best Dutch produced feel good movies I have ever seen(without Carice van Houten in it). Dutch movie makers are mostly excellent, but slightly cynical movie makers, so this is a nice surprise. Somebody actually made a movie for the general public, with a real sense of character-play, rather than star-play.
The soundtrack is excellent. The two main actors do a fine job. The other actors are just perfect in their roles (Georgina Verbaan is hilarious). And the daughter of the male character is unforgettable. The climax is just fitting.
Yes it is typical and yes you have to go along(way) with the story. But it is a romantic comedy, with a sole purpose to entertain. And it does just that..
See this please.. and don't forget: Swans stay together.. forever.
Sanne Vogel, whose articles I enjoyed in "de filmkrant, a Dutch movie magazine ,captures this perfectly. She creates here own world in these streets. Something similar to what Richard Curtis and Roger Michell did for "Nothing Hill",
It is one of the best Dutch produced feel good movies I have ever seen(without Carice van Houten in it). Dutch movie makers are mostly excellent, but slightly cynical movie makers, so this is a nice surprise. Somebody actually made a movie for the general public, with a real sense of character-play, rather than star-play.
The soundtrack is excellent. The two main actors do a fine job. The other actors are just perfect in their roles (Georgina Verbaan is hilarious). And the daughter of the male character is unforgettable. The climax is just fitting.
Yes it is typical and yes you have to go along(way) with the story. But it is a romantic comedy, with a sole purpose to entertain. And it does just that..
See this please.. and don't forget: Swans stay together.. forever.
The Lunchbox
(2013)
Boxing a life.
22 April 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Life can be a pain. Showing this in a skeptical way could be entertaining. But to entertain without losing side of your goal is worth a compliment. Starting a life with somebody else without knowing that person, is the harsh reality for millions over the world. But what if you will never really know that person. What if you stay at the bus-stop your whole life. Only to please others....
To marry somebody is not the solution for a happy life, but it is the perfect narration for a delightful film.
Know your classics. Make them your own. Please delight us more with your work in the nearby future.
To marry somebody is not the solution for a happy life, but it is the perfect narration for a delightful film.
Know your classics. Make them your own. Please delight us more with your work in the nearby future.
Man of Steel
(2013)
Visualization.
27 June 2013
Warning: Spoilers
The first thing I thought at the ending of the Matrix was: Wow, It's not fair; this should be Superman! (Especially from the law of physics, point of view) Then came "Reloaded" and the feeling got stronger with "Revolutions".
Now we have Man of steel.
Superman gets a post 9/11 treatment (Just like Batman did). That means that all the wit and sociality of the older Supermen are thrown overboard. Is that a big surprise? Aren't superheroes an extension of our thoughts on several subjects in the world? (Not my words)
This Superman does not trust everybody. Not only because of his childhood, but also because of the time we live in. They see him as a terrorist. He has to proof to the world he's not. So he starts assimilating and he puts on the glasses. He does not freak out, he adapts. And that is his greatest achievement; to adapt and not to freak out. To have something to live for. Isn't it something we try to do everyday? No matter what skincolor or religion we have.
Now we have Man of steel.
Superman gets a post 9/11 treatment (Just like Batman did). That means that all the wit and sociality of the older Supermen are thrown overboard. Is that a big surprise? Aren't superheroes an extension of our thoughts on several subjects in the world? (Not my words)
This Superman does not trust everybody. Not only because of his childhood, but also because of the time we live in. They see him as a terrorist. He has to proof to the world he's not. So he starts assimilating and he puts on the glasses. He does not freak out, he adapts. And that is his greatest achievement; to adapt and not to freak out. To have something to live for. Isn't it something we try to do everyday? No matter what skincolor or religion we have.
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