Reviews

The story was just all over the place. I could barely understand anything the characters were saying, mostly due to the overbearing sound of the score. I can't even begin to say how evil these types of films are to people. Let alone men who watch this thinking that they too can become something of themselves. Of course, Nolan is the most misogynistic he could ever be having women characters who spout about nothing more than Men. It's just pathetic and in no way do I think these films will hold up. Maybe as a means to see some glimpse of a historical event, but nothing more than that. No heart. No thing to latch on to. No interest whatsoever in Nolan's interests at all. I'd rather see Spielberg direct this film, god forbid.

I was almost turned away by this shows unique sense of how the characters react towards each other, but then it became endearing. This is a very lovable show with well-thought-out plots of basic scientific research. I know that sounds a little complicated, but the show makes it so simple. It follows a town of Mushroom-like characters, specifically the main character Seth, who is constantly exploring and finding better ways to educate himself and his peers in their little prehistoric town. What I love most is that, while everyone in the town is comfortable, clueless, and can care less honestly about the outside world/mind, there's Seth, an optimistic kid who puts scenarios into logic and colorfully explains everything perfectly. I know kids will get this and I believe it is next level for them. I just can't wait for the action figure collectables to come out.

I've just finished every episode of season one, and was addicted after the first one. The voice acting is great along with the animation and storyline. Never have I come across a show that is so witty and fun for all ages. I think Disney Channel really one-up'd themselves for having this show. It truly is a keeper. Can't wait for Season 2!

I had the privilege to catch an early viewing of this film along with a Q&A with writer/director/editor Sean Baker. Many know him from his breakout hit Tangerine (2015); I was sucked into his world since the release of Starlet (2012). Something that he never ceases to portray is the messed up realism that is hidden within our world and the Florida Project capture this in the most purest and colorful of ways.

The story follows a ruthlessly mischievous 6-year old named Moonee who, along with a couple friends, explore, disrupt, criticize and takeover a simple hotel complex just on the outskirts of Disney World. She lives with her young, tattooed mother, who seems to have issues of her own, but seems content and manages to pay rent (almost) every week.

Taking place over the summer, these kids are free to do as they please, that is, since there parents are not too strict. And being around tourists who can't afford the Disney Resort, they can make a lot of fun out of it. From panhandling money for ice cream to turning off the electricity in the hotel, these badmouthed hoodlums do it all. One thing this film captures well is the freedom children have and how far they go to test the waters of life.

It was very easy to get lost in this film, making it completely enjoyable. I was worried about the kids being a bit over exaggerating, but they really weren't and every thing they did seemed natural and true to their character. I especially want to point out Halley, Moonee's mother, and her performance. I have never seen a character like her played so superbly and so factual. You will see as the story unfolds that she is a very complex person who, like a child, struggles to maintain complacency with the people around her.

Another element I would like to touch up on is the camera work. By far one of the best storytelling methods for a film such as this that is mostly from a child's point of view. The colours being so vibrant and wide angles that show how big the world really is. The gorilla-style as well really depicts how on-the-go they are and trivial most disruptions are.

One last thing I want to touch up on is that there is a number of great shots with a helicopter zooming away. I am unsure if it was intentional or if there was a popular helipad near by, but this was a great part of the film that was subtly used. To me it represented freedom, and escape from the world, referring to how fast it can get away.

It is not everyday you come across a film like The Florida Project and I definitely intend on seeing it again, as it is simply rewatchable. Getting a taste of authentic realism in art nowadays is one of the most beautiful gifts we can receive. Enjoy!

First Viewing:

Well, Kids, it has finally happened. Watching Charlie Kaufman's ANOMALISA was like being at Disney World for the first time. THE HOUR AND THIRTY-MINUTES went by so fast for me from how much fun I was having. AND HE DELIVERED! as usual. If you are one who is thinking that 'maybe after being out of the spotlight for six years', that maybe Kaufman had lost his touch, NO. not in the slightest.

This alluring and poetic stop-motion picture takes place in one of the most undervalued cities of the world; Cincinnati. Which is famous for its "zoo's" and "chili" supposedly. Michael Stone, played by the very gifted David Thewlis, is an award-winning author for a business-ethics book that is highly praised by all. Literally.. you will HEAR background voices whispering about. saying, "look, it's Michael Stone." Unfortunately, he is not too proud to be who he is.

Masks. (beat) We all wear them. But how far do we go to hide who we truly are in the norm of the world? — *A WORLD WHERE EVERYONES VOICES SOUND THE SAME.* — Michael feels as if he is living a lie. He is trapped! But it doesn't stop there. In my opinion, he is not one who gives-up easily. **ONE NIGHT, as he checks into an average hotel suite, he begins drinking; thinking about an old lover, Belle, INSTEAD of his wife and (firefighting) son at home.

Things begin to shift gears when a quasi-surreal occurrence happens after a nice warm shower in the hotel room. You see, the faces for these puppets that Kaufman and Johnson use have a very unique look that most "clay-nation-ers" choose to omit out. That is, the lines on the face where the animators can change their facial expressions; usually, these lines are covered up.

**One element that I want to first go into was THE SOUND. Now, I am no expert with sound department, but viewing this in the theater with the rumbles and echoes, it was like a dream.

This was a PERFECT FILM. I do not deny saying it. Part of my critique was based off my love for screenwriter Charlie Kaufman, but I am beyond that. If this was a bad film, I would say so, but for this brilliant storyteller, it is simply impassible. His poetically charged dialogue saves all and It is the main reason why I love the piece of shite. If it weren't for these passionate, lost characters trying to find themselves, I would not know where I am right now.

Thank you Mr. Charlie Kaufman

The time has finally come for me to watch the documentary that Roger Ebert himself CREDITS "one of the greatest films of the decade." Well, I was not let down one bit, but I definitely wouldn't go as far to consider it that high of a review. But one things is for sure, it was definitely worth it, watching Steve James's HOOP DREAM.

Our story follows two aspiring young high school students from Chicago who dream of becoming the next big thing in BASKETBALL. One is Arthur Agee and the others name is William Gates; the two differ in many ways, but luckily, their stories really don't intertwine. — What I found really amusing during this 3 HOUR MOVIE was how dynamic each character is and what their purpose to this story was. Such as the parents! Arthur's family undergoes a lot of dysfunctional problems, and only time will tell if their story is a good one.

I believe this film is great for young basketball dreamers, but also any young adult who decides to follow their dreams. One can connect really easily with the lifestyle and realize that it isn't just about (winning) the game. It has much more to do with that.

I RATE this doc a 8 out of 10 on IMDb. Nothing too unique, but definitely something that should not be missed. Students who study documentary filmmaking can really learn a lot from this feature. If it is one thing that it teaches you, it is that YOU CAN ONLY LEARN FROM THE BEST.

— Michael Mendez

They just don't come this simple now-a-days.

I have been dying to see this film for sometime now and today I finally did. I first heard about it (actually) when I watched Zoe Kazan's Ruby Sparks, when they mention this James Stewart movie for a brief second. That was my que to IMDb that shyt and check it out. -- For a 1950s comedy, I do not think anything at the time compared to Henry Koster's HARVEY.

Our story follows an upbeat middle-aged man, Elwood (Stewart), who is best friends with a 6'3(1/2) rabbit. Problem is that he is the only one that can see him, and it is his sister, Veta, and her daughter, Myrtle Mae, who have to undergo the stress of his humility of his actions. -- One evening they decide to have guests over so that Veta can find a suitable mate for her daughter. This is the perfect time, because Elwood is out on the town; at his favorite bar, where he and Harvey are regulars at.

Once gossip gets around, Elwood finds it rude of himself not to be attending his own sisters party. Sure enough, he drops by unexpectedly; ruining the party by introducing his invisible friend to Veta's Guests. // This triggers the old bag to finally put her foot down and check her brother into a mental institution.

I really enjoyed James Stewarts character (as much as his acting in general). The things he says make so much sense and has so much HEART, even though they might seem out of the wack. MY FAVORITE SCENE is towards the end when the hospital workers, Dr. Sanderson and Miss Kelly (Peggy Dow <3), try to get information out of Stewart to find out where their boss, Dr. Chumley's whereabouts are. Miss Kelly asks Elwood if he has anything more to add to the subject. To which, he replies:

* "Well, for you I'd do anything. I'd almost be willing to live my life over again. Almost. But I've told it all. I'm quite sure, but ask me again anyway, wont you? I liked that warm tone you had in your voice just then."

*

This is just one of the bright, whimsical phrases to come out of his mouth. Everything else is still so delightful to hear; I would crack up laughing at some parts. ALSO, I couldn't help but notice how beautiful Peggy Dow (Miss Kelly) is. The eyes on that woman can slay me any day.

***In a way, I sort of wanted to "see" Harvey. I didn't know if it was going to be one for those films where they show them, only no one else sees then, but it was not, unfortunately. But, anyway, it is better off. The simplicity of this film turns me on more than you will ever know. And I believe it's story can go on (in its unique way) forever.

I give this film an ALMOST PERFECT SCORE of 9 out of 10 on IMDb. There was something missing that I cannot figure out. // I think it might be the fact that there was rarely any romanticism in it. The relationships that carry (love interests) are between the hospital workers // and Veta's daughter with the SECURITY guard at the hospital; was not really sensual at all, but it still held itself well, I guess.

-- Michael Mendez

It took me forever to finally watch this 1984 cult-classic comedy/horror. The only thing I knew before viewing this film was that it included these "ferbie"-like creatures and that something happens to when you add water to them. Little did I know that these cuddly weird beasts can morph into something grotesque. - Well, not really - I believe they mention that "these" are the true GREMLINS.

Now, the story begins with a father (Hoyt Axton; great performer), an inventor, comes across "mogwai", a little furry, two-legged creature with ears like a bat, and decides that it is the perfect Christmas gift for his (17+ year old) son, Billy (played by the very UNTALANTED, Zach Galligan).

The situation takes a turn for the worst after Billy becomes more attached to his new PET-best friend who is now named Gizmo CREDITS by his father) who begins procreating more clones of himself after an accidental spill of water on Billy's desk. This is around the time when little Cory Feldman comes into the picture. // **As time progresses, we find out the true meaning behind these BRUTES and what purpose lies ahead of them.

***I found the ACTING in this film a bit campy and childish (amateur), as if it actually were made for kids. The only good acting jobs I see are done by Hoyt Axton, who I have already mentioned, and our lead damsel in distress, Phoebe Cates (Fast Times at Ridgemont High, 1982), who plays Kate Beringer, Billy's love interest. Other then that, I was not impressed.

***What did grab my attention was the SET DISGN!! Oh man! for an 80s (Holiday) flick, this project really created a sense of style. I mean, with all the X-Mas lights and the changing from cloudy-green grass to snow-weather, it is ALLURING. +++ PLUS, the animatronics they (must have) used to design the gremlins was, still for this time (2015), really well done. I do give props to the guys who help design those suckers.

I give this horror-com/VERY CHEESY movie a 6 out of 10 on IMDb. It did satisfy my needs, but I really did not think it was worth it too much to see. I could have lived without it; regardless I am very happy that I have finally embarked upon it and know what all the hype was about.

-- Michael Mendez

Yes! -- Kar-Wai Wong has done it again, and this time he has mixed up his style a bit. I have seen most of his work, but nothing compares to the strange and utter feeling you get whilst watching Chungking Express.

This film is a two-parter: One story shows a couple-days-in-the-life of He Zhiwu aka Cop 223 (Takeshi Kaneshiro) who pathetically tries pursuing his ex-girlfriend, May, who is NOW moving on. He buys almost-expired pineapple in can's to figuratively look at how his relationship with her really is. HE IS NOT ALL THAT BAD THOUGH; we do sympathize for his loneliness. It is when he meets a blonde, mysterious drug dealing beauty with a raincoat and glasses, that his world (sort of) changes forever.

The second part, and probably the more bigger story, is about another cop from the same part of China, who's name is not really said. The cast-list only refers to him as "Cop 663" (played by Wong's alter-ego, Tony Chiu Wai Leung), who patiently is waiting for love to find him; not as assertive as our first protagonist, but still carries a great story. When he finds Faye, a woman working at a stand for her cousin/uncle who is more a part of Cop 663's love-life than anyone else we see, he begins making conversation with her, unaware of her secret plan to personally mess with the belonging in his apartment; move things around, slip drugs his bottles, switch the labels for canned-food items, etc. etc.

***It is so beautiful and visually unique how every time, Kar-Wai Wong takes a simple scenario and turns it into a metaphor for "broken-hearted and lonely" people. Such as a tree or a train (2046), or a legless bird (Days Of Being Wild), or keys (My Blueberry Nights), etc. In this film, we takes typical house hold items and turn them into "the dumped", such as A BAR OF SOAP, which starts out with a weight problem, but progressively get skinnier the more you (wash) use it. Or even A DRENCHED WARN OUT RAG, which needs to learn to contain its "tears" and over time will dry up and be happy once again.

***ALSO, the camera-work is a show-stopper. The cinematographers of this project knew exactly how Wong likes his footage in post-production, and I believe they made great asset, especially for a film that "should be recognized worldwide" CREDITED by Quentin Tarantino).

I give this film a PERFECT 10 out of 10 on IMDb, for personal reasons. I do NOT recommend this film to any *adrenaline-junkies who need fast cars and naked woman. Honestly, you will rarely find that in any of the films I review. Chungking Express is a perfect example of the typés of stories/pictures I like. And there are A LOT more where that came from.

Thank you! -- Michael Mendez

This is mayhaps the first film I have seen THIS YEAR with a cast that brought the project from a poor-old cliché-thing to ann instant success!

Johnny Depp, of course, IS over-rated, but plays well for himself in this film; taking the roll of Jimmy "Whitey" Bulger, a crazed, killing mobster back in the middle 1970s. The story follows mainly from his point of view; // making arrangements with his brother, Billy Bulger (played by Benedict Cumberbatch), who is a trusted governmental worker.

It is until an old, childhood friend of theirs, John Connolly (Joel Edgarton), who works for the law, tries to reconnect with Jimmy who is a very cautious recluse; only hangs around with a small amount of friends; people he can trust. He makes a deal with the mobster where he will give away certain high-rollers so that the federal bureau and Bulger's crew can work together and keep each other from getting exposed.

This movie reminded me very much in the style of Martin Scorsese sort of. I mean rooting for the bad guy (Depp) who you love to hate, seems already covered enough in the cinema-world. But none-the-less I really enjoyed this flick. Even though, it was more about the Irish-Americans rather than my Italian-Americans, it was still action- filled and had badass dialogue throughout the who film.

If you guys read my reviews, you would know that I am one who is not about "action" in movies, but Black Mass did everything so subtly, and unexacting. I have a real positive experience.

**How do I explain this film? It is very difficult since it messes with the space-time- continuum "up the wazoo". No doubt about it, this film had different peaks of twists hither and thither; it took me through probably one of MY MOST FAVORITE MIND- BENDINGS OF ALL TIME. If you are a person who likes PLAYING ALONG with the movie and trying to figure out the mystery behind the truth, then Christopher Smith's TRIANGLE is the perfect movie for you.**

Our story begins with a sort of eerie feel to it. When a single-mom named Jess (Melissa George) is holding her crying autistic child, Tommy, who is traumatized by something hidden that has happened in their HOME. We do not see what it was, which leaves you wondering...

From this we jump-cut (from the opening CREDITS) to the introductions between a groups of friends at a boating dock along the Atlantic Ocean. Jess is the last to arrive, where she is curiously uneasy and is in a gloomy sorta trance. Luckily, her love-interest, Greg, who is the captain of THE TRIANGLE (the yacht), comforts her and makes sure she wants to go on the trip with him and his friends **(whom she has never met, by the way).

A lot of elements in the beginning leave you wondering throughout. It gives you a chance to go psychotic in your own head; making up scenarios that are out of the wack.. or that might just be plausible.

(Cont.) Midway through their holiday, they encounter a HUGE storm cloud moving towards them. This causes the sail-boat to be "pushed" over by massive waves, causing everyone to go overboard. // After the loss of a group-member (Heather), everyone else seems to make it okay on the upside-down, floating boat where they see in the distance a vintage-looking CRUISEship approaching. They think that they're rescued until they board the ship, REALIZING THAT IT IS possibly ABANDONED and might possibly carry something EVIL.

DÉJÀ VU every-which-way you turn, Jess feels that she has been on this boat before. She begins sinking back into her trance, where she is quite possibly holding the group back from actually finding another bystander.

**THIS IS THE POINT of the film that I HAVE TO STOP explaining before I give away too much.**

THIS MOVIE left me at the EDGE OF MY SEAT ALL THE WAY THROUGH. // The TWISTS that I have mentioned are never distasteful; never take you away from the story or its meaning behind it.

I actually watched this film THREE TIMES in a matter of two days from how much of a mark it has left on my brain. I highly, HIGHLY recommend this WORK OF ART to any viewer who enjoys MINDFUCKS about the TIME factor.

****Such films as Run Lola Run, Groundhogs Day, Shutter Island, etc. I found so much ORIGINALITY in the script that I am dying to find a copy of it for myself, just to study so that I can learn how well it was actually put together.

**I CAN HONESTLY GO ON AND ON ABOUT THIS STORY; AS ASTONISHING AS IT IS, BUT I PREFER TO LEAVE THINGS UP TO THE MIND TO FIGURE OUT**.

I give this project a 9 out of 10, and believe it should get WAY MORE RECOGNITION than it already has. PLEASE! I URGE ANY FAN OF MIND-BENDARY TO WATCH THIS MOVIE NOWWWW. God, I am too excited about this.

-- Michael Mendez

Last night I underwent what is now one of my top favorite screenplays of the year; started out on the Hollywood's 2009 Blacklist, PAWN SACRIFICE took me through the insecurities and stress in the mind of the worlds greatest chess master, Bobby Fischer.

The unbeatable young adult, is portrayed by the king of the craft, Tobey Maguire who does a sensational job. He gets away with the Brooklyn accent as well as the ill-temper that gets to his head every five minutes. These are my favorite kind of films (as I have mentioned in my previous review for: Love and Mercy) where our main character undergoes a series of mental breakdowns just so that s/he can get his/her way.

We follow the life of Bobby Fischer, from his adolescence, beginning as a "chess prodigy" to his wonderful stand against the Russian government for permission to face their top chess competitors, since they contained the greatest ones in the world. As the film goes on, we come to recognize Fischer's sickness and how he is oblivious to his actions. Or maybe he sees himself doing these things, but enjoys that his mind going nutso. **Why would any human-being want to go through such pressure? Well, that is why I would say, "watch this movie to find out." I think he has a great purpose and am very proud that they took this SCREENPLAY out of the Blacklist. People need to hear the "athletes" story and how hard he worked to accomplish what he did.

I would also like to give MAJOR PROPS to, the one and only , Michael Stuhlbarg (A Serious Man, Boardwalk Empire, Blue Jasmine) who played the roll of Bobby's manager, Paul Marshall. To me, he was like the "Paul Giamatti" of Love and Mercy; making every second well-worth-watch. He can also, be the "Paul Giamatti" of Straight Outa Compton, which he honestly plays similar rolls of. // I would also like to acknowledge the work done by Liv Schreiber and Peter Sarsgaard; equally very talented performers and contributed perfectly to the film.

I give this picture a 10 out of 10.

**I will keep this review short and sweet. I am not sure what people really look for on this site, but I would like to try writing the kind of reviews that YOU want rather than what I THINK you deserve. Not that I think my opinion is substandard, I just would like to hear some feedback.**

Man! I was blown away by how unique, yet familiar, this MIND-RAPING film was. The Spierig Brothers adapt a whole new world based out of Robert A. Heilein's short story, ALL YOU ZOMBIES . The outcome was this twisting bananza of a motion picture, titled PREDESTINATION.

Ethan Hawke takes on a mysteriously, seriously serious roll as "The Barkeep" who, while working, embarks upon a conversation with a talkative, albeit opinionated young man who begins telling one of "the most unbelievable" story's told.

The MUSIC saved the acting in this film, but I think that was on purpose. You see, the movie is sort of a dark-drama where at times things can get a little... Thespian. // The CAMERA WORKmixed with the SET DESIGN really gave the impression that I was in another time period (60s and 70s); and it didn't seem like there was a lot of effects done, now that I think of it. // I would also like to bring up the MAKEUP: The job they did on the lead actress SARAH SNOOK was so amazing! They really captured many different shades of her. At one point, I really thought they were using a different actress.

I give this film a 7 out 10 on IMDb. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND to any person who enjoys being MIND-BENT with the ELEMENT OF TIME aspect. Predestination seriously is perhaps the most up to date of the Psycho-Thrillary.

-- Michael Mendez

This movie was a hard one for me to determine whether or not it was set back OR way ahead of its time. Laurence Oliver, one of the kings of cinema, directs, adapts, and stars in what is William Shakespeare's RICHARD III.

I would like to make clear right off the bat that THIS FILM IS NOT INTENDED FOR THE SIMPLE MINDED. From how technology spoils us day-in and day-out, the dialogue is strictly SHAKESPEARIAN. Meaning, that the dialect might be hard to decipher in a new AGED kids brain. I would say the only people who might find this movie appealing are **the ones who are fans of the legendary playwright and have been familiar with his work so much that it is a second language. Other than that, I doubt a clueless 8th grader would have any idea what's going on.

What really drew me to this project was mostly the CAMERA WORK; really long takes mixed with the POETIC MOVEMENTS and DIALOGUE. // Another element that caught my eye was the SYMBOLISM IN WARDROBE DESIGN. I believe it is at Richard's worst moments that we see him wearing mostly black or something dark (if the scene is a struggle than perhaps the costume is complex, as well, to fit the mood).

**TYPICAL Shakespeare: I mean, we got the old tall-tale that carries traces of TRAGEDY, ANGUISH, DESPAIR, BETRAYAL (of course), GHOSTLY HAUNTINGS, 3 ACTS (was there three prophecies?), etc. etc. Pretty much similar to MACBETH and HAMLET where we endure the rise and fall of some douchey-prick that wants control of the throne.

I do have to say, the ENDING to this story is pretty epic (on the battlefield) from where it takes you. I really enjoyed it; sorta made the three hours worth watching. It just has a lot of cliché moments that not even Shakespeare can fix at this day in AGE.

I give this JANUS film a 7 out of 10 on IMDb. **It reminded me a bit of Marin Scorsese flick, where we have an evil, not relatable guy who is our main protagonist and how we cheer him on throughout his process. Anyone agree?

-- Michael Mendez

Okay! That was sort of unexpected; definitely in the best of ways. In James Gunn's Super, I am taken through an adventure with brutal twists-and-turns with a superhero who does not even have any powers or unique abilities at all. His name is The Crimson Bolt and with him, as always, his sidekick Boltie..

We BEGIN with our protagonist, Frank (Rainn Wilson), who is just left by his fragile, ex-drug addicted wife, Sarah (Liv Tyler), who moronically falls for a powerful man by the name of Jacques (Kevin Bacon), who has a team of misfit devils, backing him up in his climb to drug-dealer-ism. It is sad because he supports Sarah's habit and drags her back into a mind altering-binge from drinking alcohol to snorting the hard stuff, such as cocaine and heroin. It is when Frank realizes this that he insists that he turn his life around and become the superhero he always wanted to be; The Crimson Bolt, with the "aid of Jesus to watch over him along the way".

I really enjoyed this "reality"-"superhero"-"wannabe" movie mainly because of how real it was. I mean, don't get me wrong, KICK-ASS was a great flick/graphic novel, and was definitely realistic for its story, but it still lacks a teeny bit of the outcome in its resolution; which Super did not. Super was darkishly and brutally realistic all the way through. I found it quite funny actually. Also, it is one of the few superhero flicks that IS NOT based off an actual comic. The only other picture I can think of is Peter Stebbings's Defendor, starring Woody Harrelson.

***I am not sure whether I should RECOMMEND this film to "Jesus Lovers", because the film neither glorifies nor "badmouths" Catholicism. That is an element that I actually appreciated a lot from this project. You do not have to be either a sinner or saint to enjoy the film, it is for both parties!

This is a fascinating short bitty made my Guy Maddin about.. well.. somewhat of the process of sound in film(s). It is most definitely a SURREAL experience of seeing someone running, and then our perception switches to the behind the scenes footage of the sound department literally creating the noises for the actions, scene fro before; not sure if they actually are the recordings, but it is definitely fun to watch!

Very fast-pace and highly humored darkly from typewriter-spankings (mhmm) to kissing a horses behind. This film tells a story in a very different way than most. It catches you off guard a lot, and might make you think that you are lost in a trance, but I think that is normal.

****I give this short a 8 out of 10 stars. Please, take the time to appreciate this type of art, because not many people have come across it yet. It is only a matter of time until it becomes the norm..

-- Michael Mendez

Hmm, this was a tough one I must say. - This experience was definitely original.

M. Night Shyamalan attempts his first found-footage film, where a sister and brother, Becca and Tyler, spend a week at their out-of-touch grandparents' house in a small Pennsylvanian town. After the first night, they discover some strange things happening at night, involving the grandmother. It isn't much later that the Grandpa BEGINS getting out of wack.

I think everyone already knows the premise of this story. - The whole film is mixed with horror and comedy, but not like most of those dumb low-budget horror films. This one is different; very eerie. I could not help but laugh at how dark it was. The grandparents seem incoherent at times which adds to the suspense. As time progresses, the two siblings find more and more abnormalities through out their stay.

I would RECOMMEND this movie to the simple-minded folks who DO NOT OVERTHINK movies. This is not the type of film that should be praised, nor is it going to put M. Night Shyamalan back on top, but it is a treat to watch. Honestly, I don't think Mr. Shymalan will ever bring himself back up. Especially, after The Last Airbender.

One scene in particular that gets you thinking is one of the very first weird occurrences with the grandma. - The two kids are playing hide and seek under the shadowy porch when all the sudden she pops out of nowhere and trying to catch them; whispering sweet nothings to them and crawling like a demon.

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I RATED this film a 5 out of 10, only because it is not my cup of tea for a mind- teaser. I say, when you make a comedy "dark" then you should take it all the way. Don't half-ass it! Burns those fricken kids! That's just my opinion. There is also the tone of the film which did not really match all the way through. The morals sort of screwed you, or not. Depending on your IQ, I guess.

-- Michael Mendez

I am proud to say that I have just added a NEW TOP FILM to my favorites list. :)

The Spirit of the Beehive took me through probably one of the GREATESTEXPERIENCES of my life. Honestly, judging form the plot on IMDb, I did not think it would be that good. Now, after watching it, I declare it to be the MOST BREATHTAKING movie I have scene in a verrry long time.

It is SET IN 1940, and LITTLE Ana and her older kid-sister, Isabel, venture around their Spaniard country-side where they attend school, go mushroom picking with their father, discover a deserted building, and most importantly, WATCH MOVIES at their local cinema house.

Ana is mesmerized after watching the new film in town, James Whale's Frankenstein (1931), where her sister tells her lies to scare her even more of the monster. I love that while the movie is playing, they show the scene where Frankenstein's Monster encounters a little girl and is shown to be harmless by playing with her, but obviously the villagers will think otherwise.

CHILDHOOD, in many ways, is one of the most beautiful things to portray on the big screen. Especially, because it is an adult re-creating these moments that have some similarity to their own youth (or I would hope so in Victor Erice's case); the innocents, freedom, imagination, energy, and even purity that comes from us when everything was so simple.

****The girl who plays Ana put me to tears towards the end of this story. I could not help but get a little emotional, because not many directors can really show what it is like to be a kid again.

Now this one was a tough call. Everyone knows how much I love movies with LOVE and HEARTBREAK, but this sort of took me by surprise, and NOT really in a good way.

I watched this film first when I was nine, when my dad took me to see it. I probably didn't understand a word and was confused why the main character is hurt so much by a girl.. // What I do remember pondering was how Jack Black was the BEST! and how much I felt bad for the character, Dick (Todd Louiso), who takes so much shyt from him. Viewing it now, as a film student and somewhat a critic, I think he is the best part of the movie. No Joke! We all have those people in our life that make us feel a little awkward and just ask too many god-damn questions. I think he changes the most throughout the film, too. In fact, our main protagonist, Rob (played by John Cusack), does not change at all. That is why I am not being too reviewer-friendly with this entry.

The thing is: I am a realist (sort of). I like movies to speak to me; give me some answers to the things that I should already know that I have not fully grasped yet. That, and the fact that I want to relate with something. But this story let me down towards the end. - I swear, that rarely happens.

****Seriously, though! It is a universal understanding that "once a cheater, always a cheater", and I do not take it lightly when someone ends up with the wrong person in the end. I wish it finished more truthfully; BETTER CLOSURE FOR THE BROKEN HEARTED. Not the old 90s ending where everything is okay, because it is not. Especially, for the viewer who, chances are, is alone and wonders why they cannot connect with anyone.

I can go on forever, ranting about how I was let down in the climax of this film, but I do not want to bore you - and frankly, I do not want to write negatively about any project. **Maybe in ten more years, when I am a completely different person than I am now, I might enjoy the corniness, but as of right now - Too cliché (ONLY IN THE END, THOUGH).

I rate this film a 6 out of 10. It honestly hurts me to do this, because I WANTED to like it. Really, I did! I WANTED it to be good, and a ahead of its time. In the end, I think it was nothing but an afternoons delight. — Heart-on!

— Michael Mendez

At first I was doing research and couldn't help but notice that something was familiar about this flick. As the first establishing shot of the town faded in, one building had gigantic pillars and that is when it hit me. MY FAIR LADY. Same story, honestly only different in some ways, but not too much. This one is not a musical, sadly, but on the bright side it is only and hour and a half, as opposed to three hours as its remake was with Audrey "the beautiful" Hepburn in 1964. The title of this film, staring and directed by Leslie Howard, is Pygmalion (1938).

Now, Pygmalion is actually a Greek story of an artist who designs a sculpture of a beautiful woman. He ends up falling in love with her and prays to the gods for her to come to life. Aphrodite granted his wish -the lucky bastard.. But this is what the story is based off of.

**Henry Higgins's goal is to teach a down-in-the-dumps gutter-girl how to speak the proper English; the fancy kind. To aide him is a colleague named Colonel Pickering, who is a very easy going lad with very little to say.

I really found Eliza (Wendy Hiller) a bit different from Hepburn's. I believe in this film, she gave here character more of a meaning. She starts out as a desperate FLOWER girl who just wants to get by, but also aches to learn how to be more middle-class; how to speak properly; and how to fare. This is shown towards the beginning when they negotiate the terms in which Henry (Leslie Howard) teaches her simple phonetics (the science of speech). -- She is also a tad more passive; she seems more accepting to the change rather than completely pushing it away.

As for Henry, Rex Harrison's was excellent, but so was Howard's. He defines his character and makes him truly an arrogant bachelor, who does not even notice his insults that come out of his mouth. You can see that he takes after his mother, but only on the egotistic part. She carries a little more heart on her sleeve, if you know what I mean.

One thing I would like to mention is that the EDITING, for its time, is amazing! There are two montage scenes that include fading transitions and dutch-angle close-ups that I cannot help but find sexy.

I gave this 1938 film a 8 out of 10. I didn't not give it the extra star because I find the story a bit condescending in a way during the MANY arguments between Eliza and Henry. I just think it was not necessary and could have been more pleasing/gratifying towards the end. Other then that, this film and its story is perfection; a true beauty.

But seriously, you have films being made out there that are budgeting around $500,000,000 and then there are films like this; not even nominated for any major motion-picture awards? In my world, this is an Academy Award winner for best picture // and it only cost 50,000 Canadian Dollars! ARCHANGEL, at first, was a slippery slope, but somehow elevated to a nice, flat plain of gorgeousness.

We have a typical Guy Maddin story (B/W) based in 1919 about an amnesiac soldier named John Boles (no big names in this film) who sets out to find his true love, Iris, in Archangel, Russia where the Great War has already ended three months prior, but they have not received word about it yet. Obviously, the whole thing can be looked at as a gag; people wasting their time, dying (perhaps) when they shouldn't be. A lot of elements stuck out to me during this story that makes me believe that YOU CAN WATCH THIS FILM A MILLION TIMES AND NEVER, EVER, EVER, EVER GET BORED.

Let us start right off the bat and mention that this film was VERY EISENSTEIN- ESQUE. Definitely not a bad thing; we all love IVAN THE TERRIBLE, but for some amount of individuals, it is just not their cup of cameo-mocha tea. The things I find similar are the CINEMATOGRAPHY; very old fashioned just as Eisenstein had it in the 40s and 50s // then there is the SET DESIGN, which is the biggest in my opinion, because, as complex as the movie may seem, it was such a simple development and everything (costumes and all) ran smoothly (nothing seems too quirky or fake). He really gave a sense of direction regardless of how amateur the locations seem.

**Speaking of Eisenstein's Ivan the Terrible: Part II, ARCHANGEL used a similar effect towards the end to give the audience a sense of direction from one place to another; one, red tint // one, blue tint. Very beautiful.

I rated Guy Maddin's Twilight Nymphs (pretty low, in fact) and couldn't help but feel betrayed by him. Now after seeing this project, I want to RE-WATCH that film until I can find the greatness in it. THE MADDINESS!! if you will..

***But like other Maddin films, this one has the same style of dialogue. That means, unnecessary laughs and confusion all around the audience. BUT I LOVE IT. Like I said, this movie you can see numerous times and always get a different out-look on it. Some things you might take to heart, but others you might find are actually part of the story and fit very well // however quirky or surreal they may seem. My favorite line comes from Iris's second lover, Philbin, when he says:

+ PHILBIN: I believe there is a reason for everything. For instance, someone shaved my mustache while I slept last night. What could that mean? +

I think this film is very easy to understand, even for a baby.. okay, maybe not really, but some might thinks there's too much going on. BE PATIENT, the story will come to you. Besides, there is written text shown to update you every once in a while of what it happening in the scenes.

*****There is a scene with someones intestines that I REALLY want to bring up, but I do not want to contain any spoilers in my reviews. **If you watch this film or have already embarked upon it, then you will know what I am talking about; Hehe.

I hereby rate thee film a 10 OUT OF 10!!! I know, many will concur, but film for me is a serious art form. While some things out their are being made with no effort, money wasted, and DREAMS CRUSHED.. it is works like this that can really make you take a second and actually appreciate LOVE, FRIENDSHIP, POSSESSIONS, or even COURAGE/BRAVEY; claiming your part in the world. And I got all of that from Guy Maddin's Archangel. - Heart-on!

-- Michael Mendez

I went with my family to the ol' picture shows, since it was Friday and all, and they all went to see the new Transporter: Refueled. I told them that I was definitely not going to see something as poorly made, regardless of how much I loved the first three (as an effing kid). So, I was limited to a certain amount of movies since theirs started at 10:30 PM, I had to see one as well around 10:00. I looked up the show times; last viewing of Bloodsucking Bastards was at 9:00 so I thought I was screwed. Then suddenly, I came across a new film I haven't even heard of called MERU.

This film literally put me through a whole mountain-climbing experience. I LOVED it so much in fact! I could not decide at first if I was going to rate this with 3.5 stars or 4. Even at one point I got to thinking it might stoop down to a 2.5 (shh), but it had its comebacks and moments that will remain stuck in my mind for probably all eternity.

Meru is about a team of climbers who want to be the first to top off the great Mount Meru in India (I believe..). Guiding this mission is a man named Conrad Anker, who I think presents himself as a great leader. Though, he definitely has that crazy, adrenaline-junky-look in his eyes, he is also smarter than you think. To aid him are two of his longtime friends whom he has accompanied throughout his travels/expeditions. Their names are Jimmy Ching, who is the sort of younger, optimist of the group, and Renan Ozturk, who basically is the weakling in the group; // doesn't stop him though.

I actually noticed how this documentary was organized in three acts, and it's funny because whatever I thought the movie was going to be about was ALL in the first act. Silly me! This film has twists and turns and though you may not get the best of footage, the (true) story is what counts. // There is also breathtaking camera shots; I love seeing a wide open mountain range; makes me feel like I can finally breath.

One of my favorite aspects of this film was the character development. And I know, how can you say that about a documentary? Well, this one has it! Especially, Renan who started out as the most annoying/bitchy character and turns into... well I don't want to ruin it.

This adventure was UNPREDICTABLE and EDGY. Especially around the third act, you will be bitting your nails. This is the kind of story that makes you understand more of the human psychology - facing your fears - With FRIENDSHIP and FOLLOWING YOUR DREAMS. // Also, they speak highly of "praising to the teachers"; Learning from others and passing on the experience/skills. That is how things get done in this world. It also presents how many people come to finally accomplishing their dreams. // GOALS, PEOPLE! You gotta push yourself.

I liked how I had a point of view on things after walking out of the theater. I said to myself, "Huh, maybe FEAR is a good thing after-all."

-- Michael Mendez

If it is one thing I really love, it is being in a state of PARANOIA. In Yorgos Lanthimos's Alps, we follow a group of individuals, mainly gymnastic instructors, who basically began a business where they act as someones recently-diseased loved-one in order for the family (thinking of parents) cope with the grieving process. Sounds like a wacky story. Well, it is :).

As I like to mention before all my reviews, I have seen the previous work of Lanthimos. Mainly the very successful Greek film, Dogtooth, which is a dysfunctional family with the kids being taught the wrong things in order to be safe from the outside world. That one I loved.

BUT I ALSO LOVED THIS ONE! The small things that they do with the camera-work blows my mind. There are a lot of times where our main character, or so I think, simply named Nurse (played by Angeliki Papoulia who was in Dogtooth) speaks with another individual where we cannot see their face. It is either cut-out, blurred, or even covered by shadows. I love this. I have seen Kar-Wai Wong do it in a couple of his films. It adds a little mystery and confusion to the story. Do these people not matter? Will they matter? What have you!

The tone of the film is pretty much the same throughout it all. Some little indents here and there, but in my opinion, it is worth the watch, regardless how slow you think it is.

I just find it very fun to watch these type of people (broken) living there lives on a day to day basis. Not the major things they do throughout there day that effects them, but the small things that we rarely take notice of. Like small chit-chat with someone else, etc.

I must say, that as much as they seem they are pushing it away, I find this film very touching. The way they have to impersonate a family member who is dead makes up for the abnormal conversations. You can tell that when they are going through this process that they are acting; very badly, too. But that is how it would go. That is not something you can enjoy, nor hate. Nor will you think it's a good idea or bad. It just feels as though it is something to do.

Been waiting a while to see this psychological sci-fi thriller of a man named (originally) Morgan who find himself undercover doing a risky job for a more bigger corporation.

I think the cinematography, done by Derek Rogers, was excellent. Really was experimental in a way. I liked a lot of the fish-eye shots and ones where the frame was off its axis.

The acting is probably what brought it down the most. I have seen director Vincenzo Natali's Cube, which obviously didn't have the strongest of talent in it, but they story made it all worth watching.

**Same with this film! The story is beyond our comprehension. I'd say that it is not as simple as Cube, but it definitely has more are to branch out to and discover.

-- Michael Mendez

P.s. - Goodnight