peace_till_sunset
PROS:
+ The multi-genre presentation is surprisingly well done and diverse, ranging from a war drama to a stylish gun-savvy action flick
+ While the film is long, it never really drags or loses momentum
+ The drama elements are touching and add a delicate, personal touch to the characters and their momentous tale
+ Jacky Cheung is a star and nails his role perfectly [even during the moral lapse moments, you will always cheer him on!]
+ There are actually a few profound life lessons to be learned from the themes of Bullet in the Head [this is the reason it outclasses most action movies]
+ There are PLENTY of explosions, gunfights, and "slow-motion" shots to easily identify John Woo's signature style
CONS:
- The musical score is awful, unfitting, and cheesy; it makes it feel like a low-budget made-for-TV experience at times
- Some of the thematic moments of contrast are not as well executed (example - jarring jumps in tone from hopeful/cheery to drab/doomed)
- There are a few editing transitions that look unprofessional [almost like Power Point fades and sweeps]
Well, this is not an easy film to digest. BUT, it is an easy one to enjoy and appreciate!
The heavy themes, long run-time, and Vietnam war scenes make this a hard watch. I recommend taking a break to process and jumping back in. This movie is great, even with the shortcomings!
Seriously though, I felt a lot while watching this movie. That is a rare statement when talking about action movies.
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PROS:
+ The character and plot development is handled expertly and connects the viewer with a strong, empathetic bond
+ None of the emotions conveyed ever feel cheap or ingenuine
+ The visual presentation is strong with impressive camera shots in the dilapidated urban setting
CONS:
- Some of the decisions made by the main character are frustrating, but simulate circumstances well enough
- The incredible, in-depth tale comes at a price: a very long movie with slower pacing [good luck if you're sleepy]
I enjoyed Better Days as much as I'd hope I would.
It's hard to find great development and strong writing in a lot of modern dramas. This fills that void perfectly.
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PROS
+ Unique and stylish high-tech aesthetic creates an interesting setting
+ Healthy balance of storytelling and intense action
+ Cool and likeable cast of main characters
+ Awesome car chase sequences
+ Nicely fitting electronic score
CONS
- Early on, expectations are low from the rushed feel of the plot pacing
- Not many details are given on some of the cool side cast
- One of the "surprise" villains is easy to spot and a little cheesy-looking
- - - - -
Wow! I had a good feeling about Fabricated City and I was right. It is one of the most exciting and engaging modern action films I've experienced.
Find a way to watch this!
9/10
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PROS:
+ The story is told in an interesting method where you discover more about the characters throughout with a non-linear method
+ These are some nicely developed characters with a good amount of depth
+ I never expected the emotional pull the story would leave on me; it is so sad, yet so meaningful
+ The character portrayals by the cast were outstanding
CONS:
- It's a shame this was left in the "standard definition" era (at least the fuzzy picture doesn't take away from the story)
- Some of the content/subject matter is extremely upsetting and serious; thankfully, it was handled in a tasteful way
I love movies like this. Nobody ever talks about some of these gems that seem forgotten. This story should be experienced, if you're able to handle and process emotionally challenging and thematically heavy content.
In a few years, I will want to see this again. I'm sure at that time, I'll be able to learn something new again upon a second watch.
8.5/10
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PROS:
+ Very creative and intriguing story, where the protagonist can't really be trusted, yet he is likeable and you want him to succeed
+ Impressive acting performance from the lead cast
+ Nice, tension that builds to create a thrilling second half
CONS:
- There are probably too many plot twist reveals that cause a "cry wolf" effect and make many actions seem less believable/plausible
- Upon revealing the most significant plot twist, there is very little emotion expounded from that revelation
- While the latter half of the movie is thrilling from the "pursuit against time situation," the pacing is rapid and misses the mark to properly de-escalate and accept the weight of the happenings
- There is a questionable scene at the end that comes off as corny, due to the implications of yet another silly twist
Yes, I think this is worth watching. Especially if you are looking for a less conventional detective and serial killer movie. However, this is certainly a one-time watch that will sour if you think about it too much.
I would have been much more eager to recommend this, had the ending been done a little differently by adding some much needed emotional impact.
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Highlights:
- Perfect casting/acting performances that fill your heart with empathy and make the second act more intense
- One-of-a-kind, complex plot that unfolds in a most unexpected manner
- The entire direction of the film is beautifully done and leads you into the descent into madness that takes place upon the conclusion
Criticisms:
- During the first act, the pacing is very slow and feels lighthearted and aimless in regard to the main plot (this is done on purpose and pays off tremendously later on)
- Some of the [spoiler] things that occur in the second act shift the focus away from the main character and flip the initial goal upside-down
Final thoughts - Audition is absolutely deserving of all of the praise surrounding it.
It is one of the most disturbing, unsettling, upsetting, and unforgettable horror movies I've ever experienced. It left me feeling very conflicted (in a good way).
In fact, the whirlwind of emotions caught me off guard and added to my experience.
Just know that it IS in fact a very psychological horror film, regardless of its initial impression.
9/10
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Pros:
- Super cool concept for a story that is executed very well
- The mystery that unfolds is complex and intriguing
- Even the supernatural elements in the movie are grounded well with a believable setting and cast of characters
- The horrific scenes that take place are quite imaginative, disturbing, and frightening
- The visual presentation shines, by showing the Webtoon aesthetic blended with reality
Cons:
- Yes, the English title "Killer Toon" admittedly sounds cheesy
- One little aspect of the protagonist's pathology isn't very well explained - While the detective characters are pretty well done, one pivotal situation near the end happens out of nowhere, with little reason behind it
Final thoughts - WOW! I thought the plot summary sounded cool, after reading recommendations from another movie I enjoyed [Psychometry].
I think I like this just as much, but in different ways! This is one of those movies where it is impossible to look away, because it captures every bit of your attention. Absolutely check it out!
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Pros:
- All of the action scenes are fun to watch, however some are far better than others
- Impressive settings and dangerous situations make some good, memorable, moments
- Once the story unfolds, and all of the characters are introduced, the movie becomes great
- The main characters are each interesting and unique
Cons:
- The plot is a total mess most of the times
- Some of the action is a bit too chaotic, which comes off as messy
- There is a lot of wasted time with scenes that do not add anything to the plot and are attempting to be funny
- It was really hard to care about the story, because of the lackluster introduction (first half)
Final thoughts:
This wasn't my favorite Jackie Chan movie, but there are worse ways to spend time! I wish the story was simplified and the characters were introduced a little better, but at least the action was cool.
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- Very heart-warming and inspirational story
- Optimistic and lovable protagonist
- Purposeful and deliberate movie
Criticisms:
- Presentation appears low-budget and older
- Progression jumps abruptly near end
- Pacing is slow
I really enjoyed the film and even think of it now (weeks after seeing it). The story is great! I love how the main character deals with her struggles with an optimistic outlook.
It really made me value my blessings and reflect upon my personal friendships/relationships. That is special.
I would recommend this to anyone. It is meaningful and may even help you evaluate your own views on life.
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PROS
+ There is an incredible attention to detail on the strong and purposeful writing
+ Even though it's easy to foresee the conclusion, it is done in a beautiful and emotionally-touching manner
+ The acting is top-notch (even certain characters' body language are meaningful)
+ Those who pay attention to details in cinematography will be treated to an extra helping of emotional devastation
CONS
- This is NOT a happy or even satisfying film; the dense and depressing tone will stay in your mind long after the ending
- The action is great, but quite exaggerated and unrealistic (similar to old cowboy movies)
- While there is some dark comedic relief, it doesn't help ease the heaviness; therefore, this is a hard movie to want to see twice
- There is excessive graphic violence that would upset some people
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This is one of the darkest action movies I've seen. It's an upsetting movie, but I'm glad I experienced it.
That ending is meaningful and makes it worth seeing.
8/10
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PROS
+ Well-paced story that has everything you'd expect plus a little bit of emotion
+ Clear character motives and a very likeable protagonist
+ While there aren't a ton of fight scenes, the ones shown are very satisfying
+ Nice balance of comedic relief and serious moments keep the plot interesting
CONS
- Although the runtime is 2 hours, it seems short
- The movie feels very comfortable, but lacks anything completely new or unique
- - - - -
This is a good intro to Korean movies, since it feels pretty familiar to some American action thrillers.
Don Lee is too cool to be missed.
8/10
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PROS
- Even though you've seen similar concepts in other films, this one has a unique and meaningful approach
- The movie is mostly fun and light-hearted and also has some touching, sentimental moments
- The comedic elements are so well done and the old lady is a total savage most of the time
- Shim Eun-Kyung is such a charming actress; her intentionally awkward character shines so brightly
- The old people are delightfully funny
CONS
- Get ready for tears (this really isn't a bad thing, but it should be considered, since most of the film is so hilarious and light-hearted)
- Although well-executed, there is an overly-dramatized, cliched moment with the writing near the ending
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Well, here's another awesome movie that hard to NOT recommend. Shi, Eun-kyung is one of my favorite actresses and every time I see her in a movie, it ends up in my "favorites list."
This was such a comforting film for me, as I've been missing my grandma a lot lately. We would have loved seeing this together.
9/10
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PROS
+ High-energy plot pacing with many satisfying action and pursuit scenes
+ The added "globetrotting" gives the film a refreshing adventurous element
+ A sense of urgency is present adds a nice amount of tension to the thrilling plot
+ The casting and acting are top-tier (especially from the villain character)
+ MDS is as cool as ever and he has some kinetic and memorable fights
+ Even the sound direction adds to the action with each punch resonating a powerful "whoop" that shakes the room
CONS
- There is A LOT of blood and guts for an action movie with so few guns (maybe the future sequel could add more guns)
- Do not expect to be moved emotionally or anything, this is simply a highly concentrated action thriller with no drama
How many times do you get to see a movie that seems like it was made just for you? The Roundup is an excellent action/thriller that is easily recommendable to anyone that enjoys the genre.
Make sure you watch The Outlaws before The Roundup. While it is nowhere as action-packed or exciting, it does a better job establishing the characters present in this movie.
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PROS:
+ Mah Dong-seok portrays an incredibly lovable protagonist
+ The story is memorable and inspiring
+ I was surprised at how funny some of the light-hearted moments are
+ The film is balanced well with the lighter and more serious moods
+ It was refreshing to see some decent quality American actors
CONS:
- It would have been great to see more detail on the background of the main character
- While Mark's (the main character) motivations are clear, there is some ambiguity from the support character (his "friend")
There is a lot to enjoy in Champion! There's still a layer of silliness to the film, however it is ultimately a drama that can be taken seriously and adored. I wasn't expecting the heartwarming parts to hit me so well.
This is a high recommendation for anyone who loves movies like Rocky, Rudy, or The Wrestler. Check it out!
8.5/10
P.s. Of course they referenced Stallone's Over The Top
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Along With the Gods 2: The Last 49 Days
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PROS:
+ There are some great elements to the complex and imaginative story that form a strong connection between the main characters and the viewer
+ A lot of the "afterlife" scenes are beautiful and interesting to look at; at times looking like "frameable" artwork pieces
+ Don Lee is loveable and cool (the Uncle role suits him well)
+ This film has some issues, but boredom isn't one of them
CONS:
- There are too many layers to the story (and far too many characters) to keep track of within the run-time
- This movie is quite lengthy, yet it seems to have missing details which can make it confusing
- The plot relies HEAVILY upon the first movie [you will need to remember everything or you will be even more confused]
This movie is a beautiful mess. Everything about it is awkward and hard to follow, but it looks so cool that you don't want to turn it off.
At times it feels like three different movies [they eventually do connect]. One of these stories is the highlight of the whole franchise!
If you enjoy the fantasy concepts of afterlife and trials to reincarnation, then these are worth watching.
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