review
Reviews of the top geek movies, tv, and books in the industry.
Antebellum (2020) Movie Review
The film "Antebellum" attempts to deliver a mind-bending narrative along the lines of a typical M. Night Shyamalan movie, but ends up leaving viewers confused and disoriented. The film is based on a big twist that is partially revealed at the 40-minute mark, followed by a series of third-act revelations. The movie tries to comment on the racial unrest of our current times, but the message at its heart is muddled.
By Diresh Sherid3 years ago in Geeks
Honest Thief (2020) Movie Review
Liam Neeson is back in action in "Honest Thief," portraying a man with a unique set of abilities that include safecracking and bomb-making. This movie is a simple, no-frills, action-packed adventure that has become a hallmark of Neeson's career in his later years. While these films can be thrilling and gripping, they can also be flimsy and weak. "Honest Thief" falls somewhere in between, providing an average performance with limited opportunities for the supporting cast to showcase their abilities beyond car chases and superficial characterizations. Nonetheless, Neeson's solid and reliable performance at the center, along with a few intriguing details, make the film somewhat satisfying.
By Diresh Sherid3 years ago in Geeks
Tenet (2020) Movie Review
In the world of cinema, few directors have a distinct style as Christopher Nolan. His films are a culmination of artistry, technical prowess, and storytelling that leave viewers with a lasting impression. The same can be said for his latest film, Tenet, which is no exception to the rule. However, with a film as complex and multi-layered as Tenet, it’s hard to determine if it will stand the test of time. Despite being a cinematic experience of epic proportions, the complexity of the film can make it difficult to fully comprehend.
By Diresh Sherid3 years ago in Geeks
Greenland (2020) Movie Review
The disaster movie genre is no stranger to Gerard Butler, who has previously starred in the cartoonish and ludicrous “Geostorm.” However, his latest epic “Greenland” takes a slightly more grounded approach, surprising audiences with a dose of realism amidst the chaos. While the film still has its moments of dopiness, it manages to exceed expectations and provide an enjoyable watch.
By Diresh Sherid3 years ago in Geeks
The Invisible Man (2020) Movie Review
Leigh Whannell’s "The Invisible Man" is a science-fiction horror film that explores the repercussions of emotional violence and the lasting trauma it leaves. Cecilia Kass (Elisabeth Moss) is the central character who bears the brunt of the abuse, though the abuser himself is unseen. Whannell's innovative film amplifies the pain and psychological terror experienced by Cecilia, allowing the viewer to feel the visceral scars that she carries with her. The film does an exceptional job of updating the classic Universal Movie Monster, while also addressing timeless and contemporary anxieties.
By Diresh Sherid3 years ago in Geeks
Unhinged (2020) Movie Review
The movie "Unhinged" takes place in an unnamed state where license plates read "America's Heartland." This suggests that the events of the film could happen anywhere, even in seemingly safe and secure parts of the country. The opening titles show a montage of traffic jams, car crashes, riots, and random violence, accompanied by talk radio reports of job losses, general despair, and woefully underfunded and understaffed police forces. This sets the stage for the mayhem that follows and portrays a world where people must protect themselves.
By Diresh Sherid3 years ago in Geeks
Game Night (2018) Movie Review
"Game Night" is a comedic masterpiece that has something for everyone. This film is directed by John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein, the duo behind hit movies like "Horrible Bosses" and "The Incredible Burt Wonderstone," and written by Mark Perez. The film follows a group of game-loving partiers who are drawn into a web of danger that leads to hilarious consequences. With a raucously funny script, expertly paced direction, and outstanding performances from the cast, "Game Night" is a rollercoaster ride of absurdity that you won't soon forget.
By Diresh Sherid3 years ago in Geeks
Ready or Not (2019) Movie Review
In August 2019, Universal Pictures announced the cancellation of "The Hunt," a Blumhouse production directed by Craig Zobel, after the script for the movie had leaked. The film, about wealthy individuals who hunt down less fortunate people for sport, was criticized by Trump supporters for its alleged subtext that invited blue state liberals to come after conservatives with guns. This led to numerous problems and controversies, which cannot be thoroughly explained in a simple film review. Universal's decision to cancel the release of the movie was, however, widely criticized.
By Diresh Sherid3 years ago in Geeks
The Letter Room (2020) Short Film Review
The Letter Room, a short film nominated at the 2021 Oscars, boasts a star-studded cast led by Oscar Isaac, who dominates every frame of the 30-minute runtime. Written and directed by Elvira Lind, a documentarian and Isaac's spouse, the film exudes the class of a mainstream feature film, with well-blocked scenes, a cleverly constructed narrative, and strong performances that create convincing characters despite the film's limited runtime.
By Diresh Sherid3 years ago in Geeks
The Ritual (2017) Movie Review
The Ritual: A Male Bonding Horror Flick That Falls Short on Character Development. The atmospheric and moody horror flick "The Ritual" is a tale about a group of alpha-male college buddies who go on a hike in the Swedish wilderness as a tribute to their friend who died in a liquor store robbery. The hike, however, takes a sinister turn, and the group finds themselves battling against an evil force that lurks in the woods. While director David Bruckner conjures a chilling atmosphere throughout the film, screenwriter Joe Barton's adaptation of Adam Nevill's source novel falls short on character development, leaving the audience with a tedious hang-out session starring a group of stereotypical tough guys who sometimes die horrible deaths.
By Diresh Sherid3 years ago in Geeks
The Little Things (2021) Movie Review
Movies like “The Little Things” are becoming increasingly rare. Once upon a time, dark, brooding thriller adaptations were being released every week after the success of “The Silence of the Lambs.” Movies such as “Kiss the Girls” and “The Bone Collector” were hitting theaters regularly, and it felt like half of them starred Denzel Washington. Nowadays, this genre has largely become the product of television, as shows like “True Detective” and “Mindhunter” take on stories of men haunted by the crimes they investigate. That’s part of what makes “The Little Things” feel dated, although the way it recalls better films with similar themes, particularly David Fincher’s “Seven,” does it no favors too. It’s a movie that's constantly on the verge of developing into something as intense and haunting as writer/director John Lee Hancock wants it to be, but it never achieves its goals, especially in its final half-hour. Some of the major stuff here works, including a performance from Washington that’s better than the movie around it (yet again), some striking L.A. cinematography, and an effective score, but one could say that it’s the little things that hold it back. A few big things too.
By Diresh Sherid3 years ago in Geeks
Palmer (2021) Movie Review
After serving 12 years in jail, Eddie Palmer, portrayed by Justin Timberlake, is finally free. But as with many individuals who have been released from the criminal justice system, Palmer's homecoming is bittersweet. He feels the anger over the years he has lost, and his relationships have faded away. He wonders if home even feels the same after so long, where neighbors are more likely to gossip behind his back than greet him. He also wonders where he can find work, as no one in town seems willing to give him a second chance. While reconnecting with old childhood friends and living with his grandmother, Vivian, played by June Squibb, Palmer navigates this harsh reality.
By Diresh Sherid3 years ago in Geeks
