Reviews

This feel good movie about five different love stories written, directed, shot, and produced by Alex Magaña, surely it is not original. You've seen it all before. None of the characters from the other plots interact, and because of the often superficial dialogues and poor acting, the film is a liitle bit boring. However the touching part of the movie is the story of Max who recently lost his wife and struggles to move on. With the help of Evie and also of her tasty sandwiches, life looks more promising. Nathan Kohen's acting is the most interesting of the rest of the cast. As a result, "What Love Looks Like" is not by far an excellent romantic film but it is shot in beautiful places, it is sweet and fun enough with all its honest clichés. If you're looking of something lightweight this is the right movie.

If you are looking for a strange and symbolic movie, then Lighthouse can show you the light. Robert Eggers, creates a hypnotic story of two guardians of a lighthouse on a remote and mysterious island of New England, in 1890. It is a lively blend of horror, dark comedy, intense psychological drama and fantasy that will keep charmed cinephiles.

Beyond the bold scenario, this study of how lack of intimacy and boredom can manifest as insanity, leads to a surreal, confusing, funny and at the same time shocking film. The actors are excellent and bold in this perfectly audiovisual, black and white nightmare. Dafoe and Pattinson play one of the strangest and most frightening couples on the big screen, and the film works flawlessly precisely because of the excellent interaction of the protagonists and the fear that seems to penetrate everything. A bold, risky film from a real movie visionary that you must not miss!

Taika Waititi's film (nominated for the Best Picture Oscar) is tender and cruel, bold, clever and surreal and keeps its ambitions under control. It is a satire about the Second World War. This is followed by a lonely boy from Germany whose views of the world around him change when he discovers that his mother hides a young girl of Jewish descent in their home. His fantastic friend on this journey of discovery is... Adolf Hitler.

"Jojo Rabbit" ruthlessly and brutally mocks Hitler and the Nazis, but at the same time treats the issue with respect and seriousness while maintaining a difficult balance. It's a gamble as many could go wrong, yet the film is fun, instructive and accessible to the younger and strangely beautiful. A reminder that love can dominate even in the most difficult situations.

As I watched it bring to mind Benini's masterpiece, "La vita e bella" but it doesn't reach that level. However, Taika Waititi, with a fresh look, delivers a distinctive and well-intentioned film that keeps you alert until ... the next "Thor" and basically features Griffin Davis and Tomasin McKenzie, two amazingly expressive young actors and Scarlett Johansson who never disappoints us - her nomination for an Academy Award also proves that. Sam Rokwell and Rebel Wilson give the comic touch to the film.

At a time that racism is showing up strongly in many parts of the world, "Jojo Rabbit" may be just the movie we need right now. We will laugh, we will be moved, we will not forget the past but we will certainly feel a little better for humanity.

The protagonist duo of " The Theory of Everything", Eddie Redmine and Felicity Jones, reunite for the big screen under Tom Harper's direction, to tell the story of a scientist and a pilot who dreamed of flying higher than anyone. It's a great idea to watch a movie celebrating those pioneers of science, but it's so bad structured that it's quickly forgotten. This is an adventure based on a real event that the filmmakers have chosen to change in the hope of recreating a success of the past. And the 'Aeronauts' may reach great heights (those who are hyphophobic will understand this), but in reality they never take off. Technically the film is great, with beautiful photography and special effects but the script is based on superficial, cliché and boring flashbacks to fill the gaps. Felicity Jones and Eddie Redmine have the chemistry they had in "In Theory of Everything" and somehow make the film to look better but the movie's own indecision about what it is - a drama or a survival adventure - doesn't work in favor of it. of. In general, the film is fun and its old-fashioned style is charming, but it is shattered by its narrative naivety. nikisreviews.gr

At the beginning of Light of My Life - Casey Affleck is directing and also signs the script - a father and his little daughter lie in a scene in the middle of the night, where he tells her a fairytale before bedtime. He confuses the myths with his imagination and creates his own story from the beginning. It starts by saying that this is the story of a female fox. The fox and her mate are having a great adventure as they board on the Noah's ark. As the tale continues, the male fox comes to the forefront. The little girl reacts to his father by reminding him that this is the story of the female fox and not the male one ...

And that is how Affleck introduces us to his film, a post-apocalyptic drama, in which a pandemic disease has eradicated the female population on the planet, including the little girl's mother. Now, father and daughter are hiding in the woods, as the world is inhabited only by men, who pose a permanent threat to the girl, who dresses as a boy and behaves as one.

A threat however that is not apparent from the beginning. The pace of the film is so slow that it eventually catches you in, while for the most part, the two main characters is the only ones that appear on screen. The movie displays an incredible sensitivity (almost feminine) and a great potential for Casey Affleck behind the camera, which with its minimalist mood and beautiful dialogues, creates suspense and anxiety even when nothing is happening.

While the story is not pleasant and certainly does not claim originality laurels, it manages to be touching, realistically captures the moral complexity and weight of the father-daughter bond and at the same time their uncertain future and their striving for survival as literally all the world is against them. A key asset of the film is Anna Pniowsky's amazing performance that expresses harmoniously childlike innocence, curiosity, sensitivity, anger and empowerment.

As one can see at the end of the film, the tale was from the beginning about the story of the female fox: the hunted girl who must hide her true identity in order to survive and also for the humanity to survive. I don't know if Affleck was really one of the many perpetrators of the #metoo movement, but with his film he creates a hymn for the woman, the unbearable pain of her loss and her crucial role in the evolution of society.

With "Bombshell", thanks in large part to the contributions of his actors, Jay Roach has made a surprisingly entertaining movie, with a combination of great stars and smart script which have some memorable lines. We have to give some credit to the amazing female cast and what they were able to bring to the material. Charlize Theron, Nicole Kidman and Margot Robbie are perfect in a solid recap of sexual harassment at Fox News. The movie isn't always as explosive as it would like to be, but it is definitely informative and entertaining and above all it is a story worth hearing and it has plenty of drama and some humor. Plus it manages to be fairly non-judgmental and non-political and just focuses to the point.

A dark, terrifying, brilliant, deeply disturbing and unforgettable movie with gorgeous visuals. The cinematography is bold and the performance from Joaquin Phoenix is truly captivating as Joker. I feel like Joaquin should get an Oscar nomination out of this, if not the win. The psychological journey of Arthur Fleck is interesting -especially for Criminology students- as Fleck's descent into madness and self-discovery as a villain is aggressive in its unpleasantness. The "Hangover" director Todd Phillips won the challenge of making "Joker" and it works not only because it's completely different to the average comic book movie, but also because it's an impeccably acted and directed drama. nikisreviews.gr

"Midsommar" mostly takes place in Sweden, but at its core is a particularly American sense of horror film. It is a movie about suicide, mercy killings, insanity, graphic nudity, religious hysteria, and the kind of grotesque imagery that exists for no other reason than shock value. While doesn't hit the highs of Ari Aster's previous film, it is still a good one. "Midsommar" is a dark horror (though shot in bright sunlight), full of disturbing images that will follow you home and possibly inhabit your nightmares. The film highlights all that there is to be afraid of in broad daylight and the director pushes the limits of the medium in almost every way, and the results are stunning. A must-see horror film.

"Spider-Man: Far from home" is an effects-heavy superhero movie that can't quite match the inspired heights of its predecessor. But this is a fairly standard Spider-Man story, with good action sequences with adolescent, coming-of-age issues. Jake Gyllenhaal as Mysterio is great, even if it's a very different but familiar take on the Marvel character. The emphasis is clearly on having fun, providing a crowd-pleasing adventure. This movie manages to develop a more intimate story, mixing up action and danger with more comedic and even romantic moments. And the truth is that it may not be necessarily groundbreaking, but it pokes fun at itself and knows that even if most of us don't have super powers, we all remember the super problems of being a teenager. nikisreviews.gr

It's either an origin story or a series finale, but it's definitely a low point in the "X-Men" franchise. "Logan" is the proper finale to the "X-Men" film series. "X-Men: Dark Phoenix" is so disappointing that it doesn't deserve that honor. It is a boring movie that repeats ideas from better X-Men films and feels more like an obligatory reunion than a deeply considered goodbye to iconic characters. The direction has no imagination, the visual effects are uninspired and lifeless, and writing is all of the above. "X-Men: Dark Phoenix" does not stop being a huge disappointment that shows again that the franchise had reached a point of no return. The characters say and do things that don't lead to anything. It should've been so much better than it was. nikisreviews.gr

Brilliantly adapted by Kristen Hahn and directed by Anne Fletcher, "Dumplin'" will inspire any woman of any age to love who they are. The movie it is open to the idea that beauty itself is more expansive and subjective and has nailed the idea of self-love better than we've seen on-screen before. The truth is that it doesn't completely avoid some common pitfalls of a book-to-screen adaptation, but it is a fun movie about female friendship and self-acceptance. Will mean a lot to a lot of young women who struggle to see themselves in TV and movies, and this feel-good comedy reminds them that they're beautiful just the way they are..."Dumplin'" is a film well worth your time. Just make sure you have tissues. nikisreviews.gr

"Avengers: Endgame" is a satisfying, expertly made sequel in the franchise and combines with "Infinity War" to create the MCU's best, most compelling storytelling. I think that this movie raises the bar so high that there may well never be a superhero movie to match it as it stands out as one of the most detailed, satisfying conclusions to a chapter in a long-running franchise. All the necessary heroes get the right amount of screen time and there is a great blend of grief and humor. "Avengers: Endgame" is a beautifully-constructed piece of popcorn cinema and anyone who has given their time to this world will find it to be a rewarding and effective payoff. The word epic is the right one for this movie. The end. nikisreviews.gr

This is clearly the end of the franchise, one that gave great pleasure. For some, it will be a moving conclusion to an epic series. For others, it'll be one less kids' franchise to worry about. It is a sweet movie with stunning visuals that delivers the message of self-belief and love but this one doesn't quite possess the excitement and the beauty of the first ones.Even though it is a touching and fitting end to one of the very best animated franchises in film history. The truth is that there aren't too many animated trilogies, as good as this one. Dreamworks animation has done it and made a fitting final chapter of good quality. The "Hidden World" is a perfectly suitable conclusion to a saga that stayed true to itself and is leaving on its own terms. nikisreviews.gr

This movie it is a welcome surprise. "Instant family" isn't too cliche as a feel-good family movie, and it has its heart in the right place within a genre that has set the bar low. The emotional scenes - both happy and sad - are genuinely emotional. The strong chemistry among the cast allows this... instant family to feel authentic. It is a charming and realistic portrayal of fostering children led by beautiful performances by Rose Byrne and Mark Wahlberg and the kids are also superb. The film succeed to touch on the difficult, testing and heart-breaking moments of having an instant family. It is moving, fun and entertaining. This is a far more thoughtful and accomplished family comedy than expected. nikisreviews.gr

There's enough in this movie to keep both Marvel fans and newcomers engaged. "Captain Marvel" brings a fresh air of energy to the Marvel universe and Brie Larson wins you over as she fits perfectly in this world of superheroes and also creating a strong female lead. Great visual effects and acting by Brie Larson make for an enjoyable watch that embraces a confident and smart woman character, make us believe that the future of Marvel is female. "Captain Marvel" is a relatively good superhero blockbuster and the important thing is that it's not trying to be anything more than that. But we will still enjoy the message it sends and will inspire young girls to strive for the best versions of themselves. nikisreviews.gr

It's a handsomely made and watchable picture and there is a real warmth in Ali and Mortensen's great performances. I am not sure if deserved a nomination for Best Film but it's two actors undoubtedly deserved it. The magic of screen chemistry is once again showcased as Ali and Mortensen bring out the best in each other and their respective characters. It is a film with a solid script and a must see this year. It has a warm, congenially progressive vibe and a wonderfully street line of humor. It is both a joyous and sorrowful film, capturing the sense of an unlikely friendship, and the sadness from watching the effects of deeply ingrained racism. "Green Book" has a message that perhaps seems obvious, but is necessary taking into account the time in which we live. nikisreviews.gr

Liam Neeson has done one of these kind of movies almost every year since the blockbuster 'Taken" and he carries the baggage of all his past revenge movies and in this one. "Cold pursuit" is full of action, fun, beautifully shot, with the icy landscape to be the protagonist and darkly comic moments. The Moland's joy of carnage and black humor keep the film intriguing from start to finish and it is always entertaining, even when it seems unsure what it's aiming for. However, it just doesn't deliver the same thrills and chills as the original Scandinavian story. "Cold pursuit" will not go down in history as one of Liam Neeson's most memorable efforts, but it's fun while it lasts and it is the kind of film action fans will embrace. nikisreviews.gr

Rachel Weisz and Emma Stone are both brilliantly witty and Colman's performance is nothing less but sublime. The three leads are able to hold a fascinating performance that is difficult to achieve. Yorgos Lanthimos retains a pessimistic view of human nature but all goes down with a touch of British glam, as he pushes the idea of the capricious queen through the far reaches of comedy and almost into tragedy. With its brilliant and dramatic script, the sharp dialogues, the great performances, the wonderful production design contributions and a beautiful cinematography, may be for more open-minded audiences, but it's such a charmingly quirky film and is my front-runner for the Best Picture Oscar. nikisreviews.gr

It is a good movie, a melancholy look at the relationship between one of film's great comedic duos, and a respectful tribute that stands on its own because of the extraordinary performances of Steve Coogan as Stan and John C. Reilly as Ollie. "Stan & Ollie" has plenty to say about the things that bring us together, and the things that keep us together. Jon S. Baird's warm-hearted film looks at them not as legends, but as men, who have their friendship tested by fame - when it's there, and when it's gone. Like the comedy of Laurel and Hardy, this film is sweet, clever and entirely of another time. Perhaps only viewers with an interest in classic cinema will fully be able to appreciate this but it truly worth your time. nikisreviews.gr

A satisfying superhero drama, and a great reunion of the cast of two of Shyamalan's best films. There are a lot of stories and characters into one movie, but Samuel L. Jackson did play his part so well, though, and I enjoyed every scene he was in. The filmmaker delivers an exceedingly strong opening half hour that picks right up with Willis' memorable "Unbreakable" character and he does what he can to put together two tonally different tales, but the results is not always good. The truth is that I was really expecting more from "Glass," and I didn't get it. But for those intrigued but not anticipating too much, it's the sort of movie that can be a fan one. Overall is an unconventional superhero story that lacks all the thrills of its predecessor. nikisreviews.gr

Even the beauty and the charm of Jennifer Lopez cannot overcome a mess of a script in "Second act". The film feels as finely tailored to J. Lo as the booty-enhancing pencil skirts she wears throughout the movie. Perhaps the brightest and best moment in this film is the chemistry between Jennifer Lopez and Leah Remini who are great together. This is the kind of film you've seen and heard before. The truth is that it has some promising moments but this comedy falls into cliche-filled traps that are otherwise disappointing. Not the best film you'll see this year, but not the worst either, "Second act" is very much in line with what we've come to expect from a Jennifer Lopez movie and thus still worth a look. nikisreviews.gr

If you're looking for a fun time or an excuse to feel like a child again, then "Mary Poppins returns" is definitely for you. I like it because it's well acted and features some terrific live-action/animation scenes. Of course that doesn't mean I can ignore its problems. It's not as good as the original 1964 film. It just does not have the charm of the original one. The music it is not as good, and the movie relies more on heavy special effects to keep the audience captivated. Ultimately, although it is a fun movie, and overall has a great casting, I think Disney should have left Mary Poppins alone. Emily Blunt did a spectacular job, but it all felt a bit contrived and forced. But it is Christmas and feel good movies are ideal.

The latest animated movie of Christmas' most famous bad character might not be strictly necessary, but it's still pretty fun - and revamped just enough to feel fresh, as it is a well-intentioned update of the classic tale. It is not perfect but it is an undeniably fun film to take the family to as Christmas approaches and to remind all that love and kindness can change things for the better. Colourful and amusing the kids should certainly get a pre-Christmas fun ride. For those that are somewhat older, the reception will be slightly colder, because there are moments that the little ones will enjoy more than their adult companions. But the movie leaves you with a warm feeling for the holidays and that is the most important. nikisreviews.gr

This is an action-adventure packed with gritty battlefield exploits, mind-blowing fight choreography, and a timeless romance but unfortunately this "Robin Hood" has not brought a new dimension to this old tale. They are trying too hard to modernize this story and the script has many flaws. The cast gives it their best, but with a script that many times feels so silly, there's not much an actor can do. It's far from the first "Robin Hood" film and it almost certainly won't be the last. But the truth is that the action scenes are spectacular and that's why the movie ends up to be quite enjoyable. Besides "Robin Hood" doesn't strive to be anything more than it is, a nice popcorn movie that you don't have to take seriously.

This movie is a spirited, very imaginative and funny sequel to "Wreck-It-Ralph". The clever ideas in the script and the strong friendship between Vanellope and Ralph carry things through. The cute characters and the pretty colors will amaze the kids with just the right amount of adult humor sprinkled on top for the older ones. Here, Disney give us once again big action, funny moments and spectacle. Also there is so much attention to detail, that it is truly a feast for the eyes. It is a creative family-friendly adventure that's a clear step above most of the other animated options we currently watched. A bold and smart, a story about what it means to live online. It's in the level of the classic Hollywood cartoons and in that it provides entertainment for all ages.