Directed, written, produced and composed by Robert Rodriguez Produced by Robert Rodriguez Elizabeth Avellán Starring Jessica Alba Joel McHale Alexa Vega Daryl Sabara Rowan Blanchard Mason Cook Ricky Gervais Jeremy Piven Cinematography Robert Rodriguez Jimmy Lindsey Edited by Dan Zimmerman Music by Carl Thiel Production company Troublemaker Studios Distributed by Dimension Films
RELEASE DATE: SEPTEMBER 15, 2011 (Australia)
Directed, written, produced and composed by Robert Rodriguez
Produced by Elizabeth Avellán
Starring
Jessica Alba Joel McHale Alexa Vega Daryl Sabara Rowan Blanchard Mason Cook Ricky Gervais Jeremy Piven
Cinematography
Robert Rodriguez Jimmy Lindsey
Edited by Dan Zimmerman Music by
Robert Rodriguez Carl Thiel
Production company Troublemaker Studios Distributed by Dimension Films
Hmmmm.. yeah no. This film's so bad I can't even make a graphic for it.
Okay. One thing that Robert Rodriguez needs to realize is that having a film in 3D or 4D doesn't make it good. And why the hell is Aroma-scope a thing..?
I admit, when I was six, I had the idiotic opinion that this was the best addition to the Spy Kids movie series because I had a bad taste in a tiny amount of movie franchises.
First of all, the protagonist female in this movie is NOTHING like the funny relatable Carmen. She mocks people and she can't go one goshdarn conversation without bringing up her deceased mother. Maybe her mom's dead because of her constant blabbering..?? Secondly, the use of technology is soooo bad. This is 2011. I get so annoyed when modern films use way too much technology. The first 3 Spy Kids used gadgets and this one is all about computers and devices.
Thirdly, WHO WROTE THIS FILM?! The one-liners are ridiculously unfunny and none of this dialogue would be said by real humans with real functioning brains.
Also, Robert Rodriguez worked on 6 roles in the first 3 Spy Kids. Now he worked on 4 in this one, and MAN did the quality go down.
Thank god the sequel that this film was supposed to have never came out. And, Rodriguez, it would be NOT necessary at all to have it in 5-D. Did the first Spy Kids come out in 1-D?
Well, at least there's a good plot and good characters [sometimes]. Really, the only good parts about the film are the scenes with Juni and Carmen.
Directed, written, filmed, edited, produced, composed and based off a story by Robert Rodriguez Produced by Elizabeth Avellán Starring Antonio Banderas Carla Gugino Alexa Vega Daryl Sabara Ricardo Montalbán Holland Taylor Mike Judge Cheech Marin Sylvester Stallone Production company Troublemaker Studios Distributed by Dimension Films
Release date: January 1, 2004 (Australia)
Synopsis
Under-age agents Juni and Carmen Cortez set out on their newest most
mind-blowing mission yet: journeying inside the virtual reality world of
a 3-D video game designed to outsmart them, as the awe-inspiring
graphics and creatures of gaming come to real life. Relying on humor,
gadgetry, bravery, family bonds and lightning-quick reflexes, the Spy
Kids must battle through tougher and tougher levels of the game, facing
challenges that include racing against road warriors and surfing on
boiling lava, in order to save the world from a power hungry villain.
Review
Okay, so why do I love this movie SO MUCH? Hmmm... let's see. It's a Spy Kids film.. Nah. Maybe because the plot revolve arounds video games? Nope. Too obvious. Oh! Because we get more scenes with Juni! Eeh. Nup. OHHH!! Because it's a Stallone role in a kids film? Maybe. But it's not his first time. Orrrr because it's in 3D! That's dumb. I don't even have 3D glasses. OH! DEFINETLY ALL OF THOSE REASONS! YES! "Spy Kids 3: Game Over" takes a sharp turn into the digital world, pitting Carmen and Juni Cortez against the Toymaker in a virtual reality battleground known as the Toybox. While it may not reach the heights of the original film, it certainly steps up from the somewhat lackluster "Spy Kids 2: Island of Lost Dreams."
Gone are the sugar-coated landscapes and goofy gadgets of the previous films. "Spy Kids 3" embraces a hyper-stylized CGI world, filled with neon landscapes, gravity-defying platforms, and pixelated enemies. The action sequences are exhilarating, with fast-paced chases and inventive use of the virtual environment. Robert Rodriguez was a one-man movie maker, having SIX major roles in the production of this movie.
One of the film's weaknesses lies in its plot. The villain, the Toymaker, lacks the charisma and memorable presence of Floop from the first film. The stakes feel lower, and the emotional core of the Cortez family takes a backseat to the flashy visuals. Sylvester Stallone attempts to hold things together with his quadruple roles, but the performances feel uneven. Regardless, they're still goddamn hilarious. This is the second Stallone movie I've ever watched and I think it's the best.
The film retains the franchise's love for wacky gadgets, with thumbtack grappling hooks and shrink rays still making an appearance. However, the humor feels hit-and-miss, mostly relying on puns and slapstick comedy that might land better with younger audiences. The predeccessors of Spy Kids 3 were mainly more suitable for audiences 10 and older, it was more relatable and the humor was natural.
"Spy Kids 3: Game Over" is a visually stunning and action-packed film that provides a nostalgic trip back to the world of Thumb Thumbs and shark fights. However, it lacks the charm, emotional depth, and originality of the first movie. Still, it's a worthwhile addition to the franchise, offering a fun, albeit slightly forgettable, adventure for younger viewers.
it's my birthday today! but i promised to give you reviews every monday, so here is a review of what might be the best spy sequel ever
Directed, written, composed, filmed, edited and produced by Robert Rodriguez Produced by Elizabeth Avellán Starring Antonio Banderas Carla Gugino Alexa Vega Daryl Sabara Mike Judge Ricardo Montalbán Holland Taylor Christopher McDonald Cheech Marin Steve Buscemi Music by John Debney Production company Troublemaker Studios Distributed by Dimension Films
Release date: January 10, 2003 (Australia)
Synopsis
The Cortez siblings set out for a mysterious island, where they encounter a genetic scientist and a set of rival spy kids.
Review
"Spy Kids 2: Island of Lost Dreams" blasts onto the screen with the same zany energy and over-the-top spectacle as its predecessor. However, while the sequel retains the fun family spirit, it stumbles in capturing the same magic that made the first movie such a wild unique enjoyable expierence for everyone regardless of age.
Carmen and Juni Cortez are back, older, wiser (well, maybe a little), and ready to tackle even wilder missions. This time, they're chasing down the nefarious Romero on a fantastical island filled with giant insects, dream-manipulating robots, and, of course, the ever-present Thumb Thum army. Familiar faces like Antonio Banderas and Carla Gugino return as Gregorio and Ingrid Cortez, adding their charm and comedic chops to the mix.
Juni Cortez' character is now a girl with a crush, and not a heroic brave take things into her own hands character. Now she has gotten a habit of going against her family thanks to the opposite spy who she admittedly has a crush on.
While the premise of "Spy Kids 2" is undeniably fun, it often feels like a retread of the first film. The villain's motivations are a bit muddled, the jokes land with less punch, and the emotional stakes never quite reach the same heights. It's still undeniably entertaining, but there's a sense of déjà vu that can't be shaken.
Don't get me wrong, "Island of Lost Dreams" does have its strengths. The visual effects are impressive, especially for a 2002 film, and the action sequences are still thrillingly chaotic. The introduction of the Giggles twins adds a new layer of sibling rivalry, and the film's message about embracing individuality remains heartwarming.
Overall, "Spy Kids 2" is a fun, albeit slightly watered-down, sequel that will definitely entertain young audiences. Depending on what you look for in action-comedies, you will have varied opinions. It lacks the originality and emotional depth of the first film, but there's still enough zany charm and family fun to keep you engaged. Just don't expect it to recapture the same lightning-in-a-bottle feeling.
Directed, written, edited and produced by Robert Rodriguez Produced by Robert Rodriguez Starring Antonio Banderas Carla Gugino Alan Cumming Teri Hatcher Cheech Marin Danny Trejo Robert Patrick Tony Shalhoub Alexa Vega Daryl Sabara
Release date (Australia): September 20, 2001
Synopsis
Using
high tech gadgets, two kids have to save their reactivated OSS top spy
parents when they're taken by an evil, high tech enemy.
Review
Spy Kids is a very unique film. The characters and CGI could be horrifying and traumatizing to some kids. The events these 2 poor, alone kids go through that could possibly turn their father's co-workers into mindless numbless idiots all alone without their parents..
Oh my god. I love this movie.
The film's plot is as wacky as it is entertaining. Thrown into a world of villainous toymakers, mutant sharks, and thumb-tack grappling hooks (yes, you read that right!), Carmen and Juni have to rely on their quick thinking, newfound spy skills, and, of course, each other. Rodriguez's signature over-the-top style keeps the action fast-paced and visually stunning, from the sugar-coated lair of the evil Floop to the gravity-defying Thumb Thumbs Island.
But "Spy Kids" isn't just about explosions and gadgets. It's also a heartwarming story about family, sibling rivalry, and believing in yourself. Carmen and Juni, despite their bickering, ultimately learn to work together and overcome their fears. Their parents, Gregorio and Ingrid, played by Antonio Banderas and Carla Gugino, are a fun and supportive duo, reminding us that family is always there to have your back, even when you're saving the world from evil toymakers.
If there is EVER a "The Spy Next Door Part II", I hope whoever directs it takes notes from this film.
As a crime wave sweeps through Hong Kong, the police call on Jessica Yang, a rising star in their ranks, to help stop a notorious gang of thieves.
Review
I will admit, for my first Michelle Yeoh movie where SHE is in the spotlight, this did not dissapoint.
The movie has subtle comedy at times, especially with scenes between Guang and Yeoh. It doesn't have a lot, trust me, but when it does it is pretty funny.
The movie has a very great casting choice, a good score, and good voice dubbing for 1998.
The action may not be as eye catching as you see in the first 3 other Police Story movies, but it still doesn't dissapoint.
And for the people who were expecting a one by one film to Supercop, ehmmm... no. But there are some subtle references, in the dialogue, and even during the fights!
Oh, and yeah, there is a lot of glass breaking in this movie, as is with the first 2 Police Story films with Jackie Chan.
But one thing that does annoy me is the opening credits. The way it goes is this - action scene, credit, action scene, credit, and it goes ON AND ON for 3 minutes. I mean, if you're GOING to put credits in between an action scene, place them as text on the bottom of the screen, or at least dedicate 2 minutes to the opening credits!
Anyways, the film is pretty good, fight scenes are good, dubbing is good.
Oh, yeah, that Chackie Jan guy is good as well.
Rating: 6.3/10
Watch Supercop 2 on
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKV6xjtS2r0 (Dimension Films cut from 1999)
I didn't know if I should've put 2001 in the title, because the way I watched the film was from an old FOX airing of the movie put up on the Internet Archive.
Directed by STANLEY TONG
Written by
Edward Tang
Fibe Ma
Produced by Barbie Tung
Starring
Jackie Chan
Anita Mui
Françoise Yip
Bill Tung
Garvin Cross
Synopsis
Royal Hong Kong Police Force cop Ma Hon Keung (Jackie Chan) arrives in New York City for the
wedding of his uncle Bill Wong (Bill Tung), a grocer who recently sold his
Bronx store to the fetching Elaine (Anita Mui). After a biker gang
bursts into the store to wreak havoc, Keung springs into action, giving
up his vacation to defend the weak and protect the innocent with his
extraordinary martial arts skills. As Keung investigates local gangs, he
learns more about a criminal syndicate that needs to be brought to
justice.
Review
So, if I had no expectations from the movie, I wouldn't be dissapointed. But this film introduced Jackie Chan to Americans, and was pretty bad which makes you understand why the American films from Jackie are horrible.
Firstly, Jackie's English prounounciation is pretty cringe (it was even worse back in 1980) but he was still learning English in the 1990s, so I can't blame him.
Secondly, Elaine is an annoying character who fondly reminds me of May from the first 3 Police Stories, who can't understand that JACKIE CHAN is a cop and when arresting bad people, he destroys a lot of things in the process of cop heroics. Ever watched Police Story or Police Assassins, Elaine?
Thirdly, the movie has no funny comedy scenes. A scene where Keung goes into Bill's store and says hi to a random woman thinking that she's his aunt is pretty normal. Until you get the rest of the scene were Bill is married to a black (mildly) obese woman. That scene just felt racist to me. Speaking of racism, all black characters are portrayed as loud annoying individuals, which is annoyingly stereotypical.. most of the time. (Chris Tucker, why?!)
Fourthly, the gang in New York is unrealistic and are bad villians. Tell me, if a movie has villians that aren't criminals would you find it interesting?
Anyways, the only parts of the film I liked were the fight scenes (there were only 2 good ones), the stunt, and the outtakes, which is particularly what I was waiting for.
So, uhh.. Rumble in The Bronx is a terrible cop movie and proves Americans like anything from America.
So here is my way of how to watch the film: Beginning of film, skip to the market fight. Then skip to next fight. Then next fight. Then big stunt. Then next fight. Next stunt. Then outtakes. Finish.
Watch Rumble in The Bronx at the
https://archive.org/details/Rumble_In_The_Bronx_FOX_WOC_2001-03-15 (Fox Broadcasting Company edit from March 2001, 2 hours long with ads, nude butt scene at the end and swearing removed)
I know some of you might be angry about me calling the film Super Cop and not Police Story 3 as it was released in Australia, but the version of the film I downloaded and watched was the 1996 Dimension Films cut, so I can't review the original version if I never watched it.
Produced by and starring Jackie Chan
Directed by Stanley Tong Written by
Edward Tang Ma Fibe Yee Lee Wai Produced by
Willie Chan Edward Tang Leonard Ho
Starring Michelle Khan Maggie Cheung Ken Tsang Yuen Wah Bill Tung Josephine Koo Wong Siu
Synopsis
To infiltrate a drug cartel, Royal Hong Kong Police Force Inspector Kevin Chan (Jackie Chan)
goes undercover in a Chinese prison. There, he earns the trust of
Panther (Yuen Wah), a cartel member, by breaking him out of prison. With
the help of another undercover agent, Jessica Yang, (Michelle Khan), they travel to
Hong Kong and join up with Panther's gang. Ka Kui is accepted by the
gang's leader (Ken Tsang), but his operation is jeopardized when Kevin's girlfriend, May (Maggie Cheung) accidentally reveals his true identity.
Review
Supercop is easily the best work in the Police Story series. Jackie Chan and his stunt team went all out on this one. Unlike First Strike which was overloaded with comedy (like putting too much salt on a food), the comedy in this was funny and subtle.
Anyway, Michelle Khan is a great actress, and this is the movie that introduced me to her. Her movies are insane, and soon enough you'll be seeing more of her on this site (infact, reviews of Supercop 2 and Yes Madam are coming soon)
Super Cop is one of the best Chan films ever. It must have taken months to come up with choreography. Jackie Chan is a legend. This movie is one you wish never ever ended, unlike it's spinoff, Supercop 2, which I gave up on watching after 2 minutes. I'll be watching it again for the sake of the blog.
(edit 2.1.24 - I watched the movie on Dec. 16 2023. A review is coming in June.)
Not to mention, Dimension Film and Miramax's edit and voice casting choice of films is actually amazing, including this one, and it's actually great they got Chan and Khan to voice for the film. Many would complain about the American editing of this franchise, but especially this movie, I actually enjoyed it! In fact, it was even better then the Hong Kong version. I'm not exageratting when I say this movie is the best movie of the whole 1990s. Watch it for yourself!
Review
Review
