dchislett-659-820580 Reviews

Mulan (2020)

I enjoyed it

[7/10 · 18 December 2020]

Ok, so I can understand some of the reviews focussing on the differences between the original and this one, but you need to remember this is a live action film and not animated. No smart talking dragons. I like the casting on the whole, her battalion buddies were enjoyable, decent wire work and martial arts (though have seen better from all involved) and the pace was pretty constant. Some of the shots seemed unnecessary and I'd be surprised if the writer and director didn't watch it and think "wish we'd done that differently" for at least a few scenes. Is it a £200m film though? No, I can't see how they did that. Did I enjoy it? Yes I did. Made me reflect on my western virtues as well, so well done!

Rambo: Last Blood (2019)

Brutal but surprisingly good

[7/10 · 28 September 2019]

The Rambo series of films has spanned a large period of film and they are so different, so it was with a little surprise that I left the most recent film having enjoyed it as much as I did, even if I did comment to my mate that it definitely deserved the 18 rating!

If you like Rambo films you should love this, if you never watched Rambo before I think you might watch others and there can't be anything more a sequel can hope for.

It made me sad and angry, I reckon it might do the same for you too.

Wolf (I) (2019)

Sadly this was no Dog Soldiers

[2/10 · 17 September 2019]

I was persuaded to come and watch this by my mate on our weekly trip to the cinema. We've seen many many films over the years, some good and some bad. This sadly rests comfortably in the latter camp. The premise sounds exciting. Who doesn't like Romans and Werewolves? The scenery was nice and the costumes were pretty cool, and they obviously had some good camera kit as the images were crisp. Try as I might I couldn't find anything in me to care much about the characters. I didn't get that they were a crack troop from their practices or actions, I couldn't understand if there was supposed to be some sub plot about the scout, and frankly I didn't care. I think this might the first film I've not rushed back from the toilet for, which is a shame as they obviously cared about what they were making and were giving it everything. Something was missing for me and I can't really explain what that was. Sadly I think that might be the case for quite a few people!

If you want a film with soldiers and werewolves watch Dog Soldiers. It may not be a great cinematic tour-de-force but it's fun to watch and the characters were really engaging.

Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates (2016)

Not a highbrow film by any means but my goodness did I laugh

[7/10 · 23 August 2016]

OK, this is my second official review on IMDb for a film that's had a bit of a bashing by some, a little bit intimidating if I'll be honest. Part of me wants to agree with the guys and gals that have given this sub-5. It doesn't have the depth that some comedies have, not all the characters are likable, some of their arcs are frankly unbelievable, and I have no idea whether some of the scenes are even slightly possible. If yes, sign me up, you'll know which scenes if you watch the film!

However

Did I laugh my ass off for the best part of an hour and a half? Yes. Was I stone cold sober? No. Would I watch it again? Absolutely.

Effron doesn't display the awesome acting you might be expecting from some of his other films, but he's definitely funny (if a little crass and childish at times, but hey it's called "Mike and Dave need Wedding Dates, what are you expecting?!?? My regular movie buddy even turned to me and said so much).

There's romance, there's comedy and, kind of, adventure (not sure on the one film classifiers at IMDb). Focus on the comedy. Accept that this is childish. Pour yourself a glass of something yummy, and just enjoy it for its silliness. Simple fun to be enjoyed by anyone who can see past some of the stupid lines, nonsensical plot themes and obvious set ups. Still enjoyed it though!

The Legend of Tarzan (2016)

Fun jungle adventure

[8/10 · 14 August 2016]

This was an enjoyable film with a well played Tarzan by Skarsgard. He'd obviously done a lot of work to prepare for it and it showed. There's a lot of cgi, so if that's not your thing then you might be thinking to give it a miss, but I'd really suggest giving it a chance. Some of the scenes are really breathtaking! You have to remember this is the Legend of Tarzan, so don't expect tons of character development, but I think they made a nice balance. The film was really enjoyable to watch and I left it wanting to enthusiastically discuss it with my mate. What more can you ask for? If you grew up reading adventure stories, then this just brings those stories to life. Waltz was excellent as the faithful servant of his nation willing to do whatever it takes, and I know I wouldn't want him against me. Nor Tarzan either if truth be told, his ferocity in some scenes was startling. All told a fun jungle adventure, just don't take it too seriously!