Category: movie reviews
-
movie review: sherlock gnomes (2018)
Sherlock Gnomes transforms a playful pun into a lackluster film experience. Despite vibrant animation and notable voice talent, the predictably thin plot and flat humour disappoint. While it may entertain very young viewers, it fails to engage older audiences, making it a weak sequel to Gnomeo & Juliet.
-
movie review: call me by your name (2017)
Call Me by Your Name is a poignant exploration of first love and self-discovery, set in 1980s Northern Italy. The film features Timothée Chalamet’s compelling performance as Elio and showcases Luca Guadagnino’s poetic direction and stunning cinematography. With beautiful music by Sufjan Stevens, it profoundly captures love’s bittersweet essence.
-
movie review: lady bird (2017)
Lady Bird, a coming-of-age film directed by Greta Gerwig, explores the complexities of adolescence and mother-daughter relationships. Set in the early 2000s, it follows Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson as she navigates friendships, love, and identity. Saoirse Ronan and Laurie Metcalf deliver remarkable performances, making the film a relatable and emotional experience.
-
movie review: wish (2023)
Wish is a Disney film that combines heart with missed opportunities. Set in the kingdom of Rosas, it follows Asha and a star battling an oppressive ruler. While it has uplifting themes and humour, flat characters, a predictable plot, and pacing issues detract from emotional engagement, making it a forgettable experience.
-
movie review: monkey man (2024)
Monkey Man, directed by and starring Dev Patel, is an engaging blend of action, drama, and social commentary set in modern India. The film follows a man seeking redemption post-prison while exploring themes of corruption and identity. Patel’s performance is compelling, supported by stunning visuals and thrilling action. However, pacing issues and underdeveloped characters detract…
-
movie review: guardians of the galaxy vol. 3 (2023)
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is a heartfelt and action-packed finale, focusing on Rocket’s poignant backstory. James Gunn masterfully balances humour and emotion, offering significant character growth and stunning visuals. The film serves as a love letter to fans and the concept of found family, delivering a fitting conclusion to the trilogy.
-
movie review: beetlejuice beetlejuice (2024)
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice attempts to recapture the charm of its 1988 predecessor, yet falters with a weak script and underdeveloped characters. While Michael Keaton and Tim Burton’s style provide moments of nostalgia and visual flair, the film ultimately feels tedious and overly reliant on the original, lacking fresh ideas.
-
movie review: we live in time (2024)
We Live in Time is a poignant film directed by John Crowley, featuring Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh as Tobias and Almut, whose chance meeting evolves into a transformative love. The film compellingly addresses themes of love and loss, enhanced by strong performances, stunning visuals, and a beautiful score, despite some pacing issues.
-
movie review: barbie (2023)
Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig, is a groundbreaking film that blends humour, heart, and sharp social commentary on identity and gender. Following Barbie’s journey from a perfect world to self-discovery in the real world, the film features standout performances by Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, vibrant visuals, and thoughtful themes. A must-see for all ages.
-
movie review: challengers (2024)
Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers is a dramatic exploration of love and rivalry within a high-stakes tennis backdrop. The story revolves around Tashi Duncan, caught in a love triangle involving her husband and ex-lover. Stellar performances, particularly by Zendaya, enhance the film’s tension and emotional depth, despite occasional pacing issues. Highly recommended for its engaging narrative.
Chante JVR 