Another amazing story based in truth. I think it's called The Impossible because those sets must have been near impossible.

Incredible story with remarkable performances by Naomi Watts and Tom Holland and amazing staging.
However, Bayona repeats the same mistakes from other movies like "The Orphanage" when he creates an uneasy situation through some unexplained weird behavior.

Samuel L. Jackson really steals the show here as the petty criminal "Ordell". He sells guns - gradually accumulating a small fortune which he smuggles in from Mexico using the services of the eponymous air stewardess (Pam Grier). When his well oiled machine starts to splutter, he avails himself of bail bondsman "Cherry" (Robert Forster) and so starts a complex story that sees people drop like flies; policeman "Ray" (Michael Keaton) get involved and we build to a sting operation not seen since Paul Newman in 1973. A great soundtrack that doesn't overwhelm some good performances, a pithy and dryly humorous script with the foul-mouthed tirades from the rather ruthless "Ordell" working well to develop his character and a really solid effort from Grier as the middle-woman who is very capable of thinking on her feet! There are a couple of scenes - not least between "Melanie" (Bridget Fonda) and "Louis" (Robert De Niro) - that are genuinely laugh out loud and the threads knit cleverly and from left field a bit at the denouement. This might be my favourite Tarantino film - it has pace, style, character and engaging contributions from a cast that work and deliver well together.

Outstanding, no two ways about it.
'Jackie Brown' makes for a great watch, I personally found the pacing excellent; which is obviously important for a 2hr 30min+ production. The cast knock it out the park, while the story is riveting. It's worthy of the hype, one of Quentin Tarantino's best no doubt.
Pam Grier is fantastic as the titular character, Samuel L. Jackson is quality as well - the scenes that those two share are top notch. Robert Forster plays a much larger part than I was expecting at the beginning, which is only a massive plus as he gives a great performance. You also have the likes of Michael Keaton, Chris Tucker and Robert De Niro involved - I actually would've like to have seen De Niro used more meaningfully.
Not much more needs to be said, I'd only be repeating what everyone else has positively said about this. It's brilliant.

Booyah!
Coming as it did after critical darlings "Reservoir Dogs" and "Pulp Fiction", it's perhaps not surprising that Quentin Tarantino's next film failed to - at the time - scale those giddy heights. Yet on reflection these days, when viewing Tarantino's career over twenty years later, it's one of his tightest works.
Working from master pulper Elmore Leonard's novel "Rum Punch", Tarantino had a concrete base from which to build on, which he does with aplomb. Cleaving close to the spirit of Leonard, "Jackie Brown" is rich with glorious chatter, each conversation either pings with a biting hard ass edge, or alternatively deconstructing the vagaries of the human condition.
Oh for sure this is a talky pic, but nothing is ever twee or pointless, for it's a film that pays rich rewards to those prepared to fully grasp the characters on show, to be aware that all is building towards the final third. It's then here where the story brings about its stings, with a complex operation cloaked in double crosses and evasive captures, of violence and more...
There's a wonderful portion of the story that sees Tarantino play the same sequence out from different character perspectives, but this is not self indulgency. Tarantino reins himself in, not letting stylisations detract from the characters we are so heavily involved with. His other triumph is bringing Pam Grier and Robert Forster to the fore, who both deliver terrific performances. It's through these pair, with their deft characterisations, where Jackie Brown is most poignant and purposeful.
Is it a case of "Jackie Brown" being undervalued in Tarantino's armoury? Perhaps it is? For it's ageless, holding up as a piece of intelligent work of note, and well worth revisiting by anyone who hasn't seen it since it was first released. 9/10

Quentin Tarantino, a genius who brought us Pulp Fiction and Reservoir Dogs returned with Jackie Brown, a tale of deception in the world of drugs-smuggling business. Heavily inspired by the 1970’s blaxploitation flicks, it tells the story of a stewardess, Jackie Brown (Pam Grier) who was pinned inside the cash-smuggling business as she’s tormented between two choices, becoming a cash-mule and in the end snitching her own boss or being smart by keeping the money for herself. It’s quite rare to see a film where the leading role is a female. Even though the plot relies quite much on Elmore Leonard’s novel Rum Punch, Tarantino really did great in giving his own personal touch to the existing materials by adding up a fine composition of clever dialogue, dark humor, and even the ultra violence in the forms of gun-battling badasses, drugs, and absolutely very graphic language, making it absolutely a typical Tarantino flick.
This film also possessed its own controversies that put Tarantino in the prosecuted seat because of his frequent use of the word “nigger”. This serious accusation was made by Spike Lee who furiously (while busy counting) noted that was used 38 times, excessively, throughout the film and he claimed that it’s an abuse and definitely an insult to black people. Apart from the above accusation, in my opinion, Jackie Brown, with its strong casts from Pam Grier, Bridget Fonda, Robert Forester, and Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Keaton and Robert De Niro really add up to the greatness of the film. The way I see it, every cast here is given a complex set of character for us to study. Both De Niro and Keaton, despite their small roles, they remain favorable and memorable.

"Billy" (Zach Galligan) is given a special gift and three very important instructions. So long as he obeys them, then all will be well. Of course, though, he doesn't and next thing we know the entire town is being over-run by an outbreak of the eponymous, and not always so friendly, furry creatures. They spread exponentially and so "Billy" and friend "Kate" (Phoebe Cates) have to figure out a way of getting the toothpaste back in the tube! It's quite good fun this, at the start, but as it progresses the joke wears a bit thin and the mayhem just a little too slapstick for me. It's dated a bit now, but I quite enjoyed the ending, even if it did tee up a sequel and doubtless provides the marketing folks with a wet dream or two.

**Clever, creepy, Christmasy, and loads of fun! Gremlins should be a part of everyone's Christmas traditions!**
Gremlins should be at the top of everyone's favorite Christmas movie list. It's full of the 80s teenage adventure cheesiness, cute cuddly creatures, and creepy monsters. Gremlins radiates the same classic spirit and tone as other films of the time, like The Goonies or E.T., but Gremlins adds a little horror flavor. Admittedly, the film isn't particularly scary as it seeks to poke fun at more serious alien critter movies of the time. Still, its creepy atmosphere and twisted little monsters, mixed with the holiday cheer and quaintness of the quiet small town of Kingston Falls, set it apart from other 80s creature features. For many, sitting around the Christmas tree, sipping hot chocolate, and watching Gremlins is a yearly tradition. It might be a little dated, but Gremlins is a fun, adventurous film unlike any other Christmas movie.

Weirdly, it's one of my favourite Christmas movies!
It was heartwarming, a little scary and outright amusing. It's one of those films where the bad guys still the show.
Also, is it me or does the girl look a little like adult star Ava Dalush?!
Anyway, what I'm saying is, Gremlins is another classic.

_**Cute creatures morph into hellions during Christmas**_
A traveling inventor (Hoyt Axton) brings home a cute animal he bought at a shop in Chinatown for a Christmas gift, but the rules for the animal’s care are broken and all hell breaks loose. Zach Galligan plays the son and Phoebe Cates his girlfriend.
“Gremlins” (1984) mixes Christmas movie with Comedy, Fantasy & Horror for an entertaining popcorn flick. The mogwai creatures are cute and you’re not sure how safe the movie is going play out but, thankfully, it turns amusingly edgy. The inclusion of cutie Phoebe Cates helps.
The film runs 1 hour, 46 minutes and was shot at Universal Studios, Universal City, California.
GRADE: B-

Overall, movie was strange. It did have a few suspenseful moments, but overall want that great of a horror film. And I definitely wouldn't call it a comedy. Based on all the hype it has had I wasn't that impressed.

"Vincent" (Ethan Hawke) is determined that he wants to travel into space, but is deemed unsuitable by the genetically motivated authorities who decide these things. Luckily for him, he knows "Jerome" (Jude Law). He was in a nasty car accident that has left his paraplegic - but nonetheless, his genetics do qualify for the upper echelons of society necessary to go up in a rocket. The pair quickly establish a partnership by which the latter man develops some techniques to fool the detection devices and facilitate "Vincent" living out his dream. Just as that is set to come true, his boss is found dead in mysterious circumstances and the ensuing investigation could compromise the web of lies and identity fraud that 'Vincent" has carefully established over the years... I honestly can't say I rated the acting here as great by anyone, including Uma Thurman who comes into things later on in the day as a bit of love interest, but the pacing of this story and the underlying premiss of genetic gradation and selection is potently presented here by auteur Andrew Niccol. We are now living in a sterile society where people's merits are all based on their past rather than their potential. Assumptions are made based on whether you eat well, drink, smoke, have sex - almost as if you are accruing (or not) life points, not just for you but for future generations too! The production looks great in it's modern simplicity - even if there is what looked like an old Rover car used to ferry the investigator "Lamar" (Xander Berkeley) and a man who introduces another twist as we near the denouement. Will anyone make it to Titan?

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Simply put, Gattaca is one of the greatest movies ever made. Some might think that's going too far but it truly is a masterpiece. Everything from the casting, set design, cinematography, writing and the Universe in which the story takes place. It is not only a great source of entertainment but an inspiring work of art.
By far the most poetic movie I have had the pleasure of watching. Every line is elegiac and truly beautiful. It's the type of movie that keeps you thinking days after the credits have rolled. Not because it is fast-paced, intense or has a crazy twist ending but for its tranquil philosophical ideas. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a jaw-dropping movie night. It should be on every cinephile's list of must-watch.

***The eugenics-obsessed future in 40s/50s noir***
Several decades in the future liberal eugenics is normal and discrimination is practiced to distinguish "valids" from "in-valids," the latter conceived by natural means and therefore more susceptible to genetic defects. Vincent (Ethan Hawke) is an in-valid who assumes the identity of a disabled valid (Jude Law) in order to fulfill his dream of space travel. Uma Thurman and Gore Vidal are also on hand.
"Gattaca" (1997) is a sci-fi drama “tech noir,” which combines futuristic science-fiction with 40s/50s noir.
It’s not just the suits & hats, the cars look like 50s/60s coupes, but whine because they’re electric. It’s similar in this respect to “Dark City” (1998), but more dramatic. Imagine if “Dick Tracy” (1990) was a somber space-age sci-fi and you’d have a pretty good idea.
The film flopped at the box office while critics generally praised it. It plays better if you have an interest in eugenics and the philosophies thereof. For me, it’s decent, but too low-key. I prefer “Dark City” if I’m going to watch a film of this sort.
The movie runs 1 hour, 46 minutes, and was shot in Southern Cal: Marin County Civic Center in San Rafael; Otis College of Art and Design; CLA Building on the campus of California State Polytechnic University, Pomona; the spillway of the Sepulveda Dam; outside The Forum in Inglewood; and Kramer Junction Solar Electric Generating Station.
GRADE: B-

Nicolas Cage trying his damndest to be as un-Indian Jones as possible and succeeding. A good old-fashioned treasure hunt adventure you won't be able to help but enjoy. Cage is thoroughly enjoyable in this pacy romp. The unheroic hero is the best kind of hero, in my humble opinion.

**National Treasure catches the Indiana Jones lightning in a bottle with its clue-chasing treasure hunt, entertaining cast, and grand adventure.**
National Treasure successfully captures the fun adventure and quality of Indiana Jones while building an exciting universe to explore in future films and shows. Nicolas Cage is at his best teaming with producer Jerry Bruckheimer once again. The duo's collaboration gave us The Rock, Con Air, and Gone in Sixty Seconds, with National Treasure outdoing them all at the box office! This fast-paced family-friendly adventure film travels the globe hunting for clues and uncovering new mysteries. The witty dialogue and funny moments keep the movie lighthearted, contrasting the dangers and peril the characters constantly face. National Treasure is a nostalgic and entertaining film with Nicolas Cage at his best, a fantastic supporting cast, and an exciting globe-trotting treasure hunt that the whole family can enjoy.

_**Modern "Raiders of the Lost Ark" in America**_
If you can imagine a "Raiders of the Lost Ark"-type story taking place in modern America, you'd have a fairly good idea of what "National Treasure" is like. Nicolas Cage plays the Indiana Jones-type treasure hunter, Benjamin Franklin Gates, accompanied by his partner (Justin Bartha) and romantic interest (Diane Kruger), the latter a historical document scholar who gets dragged into the wild proceedings.
THE PLOT: Gates feels he has no choice but to audaciously steal the Declaration of Independence to save it from his nemesis (Sean Bean). The document has an invisible clue on its flip side, which supposedly leads to a vast, coveted 'national treasure.' Can Gates successfully swipe the document, elude the Feds, and ultimately find the ancient fortune before his murderous, greedy rival? And can he simultaneously "get the babe" as well?
"National Treasure" put a big grin on my face throughout its entire runtime. Like 1981's "Raiders of the Lost Ark," you're not supposed to dwell too deeply on the events because, if you do, the implausibilities will start to mount up. Nevertheless, even though this was made to be a fun, eminently entertaining ride, it still somehow stimulates ruminations and interest in American history. Not a bad byproduct, no?
A handful of miscellaneous items:
* Diane Kruger, who played 'the face that launched a thousand ships' in 2004's "Troy," is sharp and all-around pleasant on the eyes.
* The score is modern with thrilling orchestrations intermingled with HEAVY progressive guitar riffs. It was composed by, believe it or not, Yes' guitarist/songwriter Trevor Rabin. Like "Conan the Barbarian," "Last of the Mohicans" and "Where Eagles Dare," this is a soundtrack worth owning; it's that superlative.
* The protagonists are all likable; heck, even the head Fed, played by Harvey Keitel, is likable.
* The chases are thrilling.
* The film was shot on location in Washington D.C., Philadelphia and New York City.
* Jon Voight plays Gate's father.
* Like "Raiders" this is a family-friendly experience -- upbeat with no needless cussing, sex or gore. The movie leaves you with a good feeling.
CLOSING THOUGHT: Despite the fact that Roger Ebert and Richard Roeper gave it 'thumbs down' -- Roeper even calling it 'Howling, howling BAD' -- "National Treasure" was a huge hit with audiences in 2004. This shows that critics like Roeper see WAY too many movies. They can't even lighten-up enough to enjoy a fun, thrilling, historically-stimulating popcorn flick. Implausible? Yes (at times, anyway). Bad? No.
Make no mistake, "National Treasure" is an entertaining quasi-believable adventure film. It's got the mojo.
The movie runs 2 hours, 11 minutes.
GRADE: B+/A-

Seen this one many times over the years and still a lot of fun. Solid adventure-comedy with Nicolas Cage in his element with this sort of material. Diane Krueger's performance was a bit iffy at times but she had some okay scenes and never can go wrong with Sean Bean playing the villain, though the character is made out to be smart when all he does is some online searches and stealing from others. **3.75/5**

Maybe the real National Treasure was this movie we watched along the way.
Okay so I didn't **love** _National Treasure_, but it 100% is what it's supposed to be. I never watched it as a kid, this was literally the first time I've ever seen more than about 5 minutes of it, so I don't have the nostalgia thing that a lot of people do, but I do think I'll watch it again. And, even though I didn't much like the sequel, I think I'd still definitely try out a 3rd _National Treasure_ if it ever got made.
_Final rating:★★½ - Had a lot that appealed to me, didn’t quite work as a whole._

Good watch, could watch again, and can recommend.
This is about as good as the original without the historical mark. I love the alternative motive of getting revenge for a friend, this way it's not about how much you can steal, its about how much you can make someone else lose, and it's against someone might be justifiably shot, not that it would help Reuben.
This movie gets every bit as complex with less over explaining than the last movie, keeping it fresh and interesting.
All the same production value, good cast, and good writing with new twists and angles. A must see even if you've watched the first and are skipping the second.

Resident Evil (2002) is a solid action-horror film that takes the core idea of the video game series and spins it into something original. The plot is simple but effective, following a group trying to survive in a high-tech underground facility after a deadly outbreak. It doesn't just rely on zombies for tension; the movie builds suspense through corporate secrecy, AI threats, and bioengineered monstrosities. The blend of sci-fi elements with action and horror keeps things engaging from start to finish, making it stand out from traditional zombie flicks.
Paul W.S. Anderson’s directing gives the film a sleek, fast-paced energy that keeps the tension high. The cinematography complements this with clean, stylized shots, making the action sequences crisp and easy to follow. The laser hallway scene is one of the film’s most iconic moments, showcasing both the film's brutal efficiency and its sci-fi horror tone. The set design, particularly The Hive, feels sterile and claustrophobic, adding to the atmosphere. The action choreography is sharp, and Milla Jovovich’s presence elevates the film. She delivers a strong performance, blending vulnerability and badassery in a way that makes Alice instantly likable.
The script keeps things moving at a good pace, avoiding unnecessary exposition while letting the mystery unfold naturally. Some of the dialogue is straightforward, but it fits the film’s tone, prioritizing momentum over complexity. The score, co-composed by Marilyn Manson, adds a heavy, industrial edge that enhances the movie’s aggressive, cyberpunk feel. Overall, Resident Evil is a fun mix of action, horror, and sci-fi that still holds up, especially if you enjoy fast-paced, stylish survival thrillers.

Good movie brought the video game game to life. Could have been better. I was glad to see this movie made though. Always thought this would be good for a movie series.

**While not a perfect movie, Resident Evil stands above many other entries in the zombie and video game genres.**
The first of a 6-movie series, Resident Evil stays grounded in its horror roots more than the rest. This movie takes every opportunity to keep the audience tense and on edge with zombies, monsters, deadly lasers, and jump scares. When most video game adaptations result in embarrassing movies that should have gone straight to streaming, Resident Evil put together a solid storyline with great action, fun characters, gross zombies, and entertaining horror.

Great watch, will likely watch again, and do recommend.
I understand that zombies have been done to death by the time I wrote this, but I've always enjoyed them, and I understand that, as a movie franchise, "Resident Evil" is fairly laughed at, but the first movie was somewhat promising, even if it didn't REALLY have anything to do with the video game.
If nothing else, Milla Jojovich and Michelle Rodriguez are quality actors and carry the movie very well, though I honestly think the cast does well.
I'm all for unique movies, and, at the time, this felt like one. It is well remembered for a particular death scene.
If you like zombies, then you should like this one. It just has this evil corporation trope looming in the background.
It does a great job of slowly escalating the situation, if in a slightly absurd way.

Been several years since I last watched this one and I guess it's passable but not very scary (I personally don't find zombies all that frightening) and the CGI creatures, while okay for its time, didn't add to the tension either. At least some of the action was alright and not bad following around Milla Jovovich. **2.75/5**

I originally watched "Resident Evil" at a movie theater when it was first released in 2002. I hadn't played the games. There was no Rotten Tomatoes and I didn't read reviews back then so I went in blind. And I utterly enjoyed the movie: the story, the action sequences, the underground "Hive," Mila Jovovich and Michelle Rodriguez kicking serious ass, and more.
Panned by critics (36% RT) but liked by users (67% RT), Resident Evil was one of the first examples of how mainstream critics just don't "get" horror. Movies that try to be artsy get great reviews even as key elements fall flat for the rest of us. The recent "Beach House" is a perfect example of this -- it was loved by critics (81% RT) and panned by users (28%).
Unfortunately, the rest of the "Resident Evil" sequels except for a few moments, rarely captured that first movie's originality and allure. Instead, check out the writer/director's excellent previous outing "Event Horizon."

Henry Cavill's performance in this movie is nothing short of captivating. He exudes a suave and charismatic demeanor that instantly brings to mind the iconic James Bond character. His portrayal is both charming and engaging. He is without a doubt the next James Bond.
Ask for the movie itself, it resembles a lot of the classic Bond movies from the Sean Connery era.
One of the film's standout features is its impeccable aesthetics. The visual elements, from the costumes to the set design, are meticulously crafted, immersing the audience in the stylish world of espionage and intrigue.
What sets "The Man from U.N.C.L.E." apart is its ability to strike a perfect balance between action and humor. The film doesn't take itself too seriously, and this lighthearted approach results in genuinely funny and memorable scenes. The humor is smartly woven into the storyline, making it a delightful watch.
The ensemble cast delivers outstanding performances across the board. From Cavill's suave Napoleon Solo to Armie Hammer's intense Illya Kuryakin, each actor brings depth and charisma to their respective roles. Alicia Vikander also shines in her role, adding to the film's overall charm.
The pacing of the movie is commendable. It keeps you engaged from start to finish, with well-choreographed action sequences and plot twists that maintain the excitement throughout.
"The Man from U.N.C.L.E." is a must-watch for fans of espionage films, offering a fresh take on the genre with its charismatic performances, stylish aesthetics, humor, and solid pacing. Whether you're a fan of the original series or new to the world of U.N.C.L.E., this film is a highly recommended cinematic experience.

Super smooth '60s period espionage caper boosted by some very clever modern directing and cinematography. The tongue-in-cheek humour really makes this movie work.

This could never be described as Guy Ritchie's best work, and Henry Cavill really is about as rigid as that jaw bone of his - but it does have redeeming features. It doesn't take itself at all seriously; there are loads of gadgets, stylish costumes and the even a soupçon of a score that could have been penned by Morricone. Set against a background of cold war mistrust, Illya Kuryakin (a comically thick-accented Armie Hammer) partners up with Cavill ("Napoleon Solo") to prevent an evil Spectre-like organisation from proliferating nuclear weapons. Alicia Vikander and Elizabeth Debicki provide added glamour - and quite a bit of what menace this rather weak effort generates. I am not sure if it is intended (or not) to be a sort of "Bond" meets "the Saint" spoof - but it's tongue is firmly planted in it's cheek; there are quite a few decent comedic sequences and Hugh Grant manages to steal the few scenes he is in - as the enigmatic "Waverly". It obviously comes across way better than the original television series, but maybe that's the problem - it is all just a bit too classy and slick when it needed to be a bit more rudimentary.