Showing posts with label USA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label USA. Show all posts

27.1.25

Beverly Hills Cop III

 My second favourite BHC film. Felt slightly more childish because of Wonder World, but I absolutely love this movie!! Wish there were more uses of Axel F, and I wanted Taggart back. 

10/10



20.1.25

Beverly Hills Cop II

 Probably my least favourite entry to the series - the last fight scene with the guns and everything was pretty cool but everything else was extremely dull and hard to remember. If you can't remember the movie, don't bother to since that means it was probably really boring. And that's what this film was. Really boring.

5/10



13.1.25

Beverly Hills Cop

 I watched this film during school holidays a while ago and I really liked it. I don't know who wrote it but they are a fricking genius because this movie is great. Most people only watched it for the comedy but I watched it for the action, and appreciated both aspects of the movie.

Amazing soundtrack too.

10/10



6.1.25

Back To The Drawing Board: The Karate Kid Part III


 Release date: August 17, 1989

Rated PG (15+)

Now we're talking.. this Karate Kid is once again an All Valley tournament and takes place in the location from the first film. But is it really that good? Ehh.

The fight scenes and story are pretty good, but the action department is mediocre, especially the final fight scene. Mike Barnes really should've won. Daniel would have lost if the film was realistic.

 The plot twist in this film was pretty predictable and it wasn't as surprising. This film introduced Terry Silver to the Cobra Kai series, the evil moron he is.

Anyways, I still cannot get myself to completely hate this film, so I give it a 

Rating: 9/10 

 


30.12.24

A Whole New World, Old Characters: The Karate Kid Part II


Release date: July 31, 1986

Rated PG (15+) 

Oh waa blah blah blah the Karate Kid 2 is such a bad sequel blah blah- SHUT THE HELL UP. THIS MOVIE IS A MASTERPIECE. IT IS CRIMINNALLY UNDERATED. I WILL DEFEND IT UNTIL I DIE. HELL, I MAY EVEN DEFEND IT AFTER I DIE. 

So, I will admit, this film and it's predecessor are two completely different ideas. They take place miles away. The first one is about a boy competing in a Kung Fu tournament to prove to his bully he's strong. And this one is about that boy traveling to Japan with his master.

So of course, this film has such a different feel to it and a very unique story that's hard to follow. And I'm honestly digging it.

 

I enjoyed every fight in this film heavily. Every action sequence, every plot twist. I watched it and I loved it. Hell, I might even watch the movie again. Get it on DVD AND Blu-Ray.

Rating: 10/10


 

23.12.24

Cobra Kai - The Film: Is The Karate Kid That Great?

 

    Release date: Oct 27, 1984

Rated PG (15+)

AAAAARRRGGGH.

After watching the Cobra Kai series and the Jacky Chan remake, I eventually figured it was time to watch the original. Was I dazzled? No. Was I dissapointed? No.

With a cliched plot that has been copied from probably over a million films, this film is tiring in terms of plot and term of action.

With slow but for some reason, still painful hits, the action department of this film was a bit of a fail, just as with the emotion department. LaRusso is the victim of bullying while simultaneously a literal JERK. You really fail to feel bad for him, unlike with Jaden Smith, a wonderful actor and terrible rapper. Ralph Macchio didn't take on a dog poop music career, which is why I still have a hint of sympathy for him.

He yells at his mother and his kung fu teacher, Mr. Miyagi, who looks ancient but unconvincingly still can kick butt. Huh? 

My god. My opinions of this films go up and down like a Ferris Wheel. I love it! Nah, it's bad. NOW I LOVE IT! And I hate it. JUST PICK ONE, ME!

Yeah, I love it.

Rating: 7/10



























16.12.24

JC & JC collaborate in Hidden Strike

 

 Produced by & starring Jackie Chan

Directed by    Scott Waugh
Written by    Arash Amel
Produced by   

    Esmond Ren
    Hans Canosa
    Joe Tam

Starring   

    John Cena
    Pilou Asbaek
    Ma Chunrui

Cinematography    Tony Cheung
Edited by    Scott Waugh
Music by    Nathan Furst
Production
companies
    
Changchun Film Studio

    XYZ Films
    FilmsHuaxia Film Distribution
    Epitome
    Talent International Media
    Flame Pictures Company

Distributed by Netflix
Release date: July 28, 2023

Synopsis

Two ex-special forces soldiers must escort a group of civilians along Baghdad's "Highway of Death" to the safety of the Green Zone.

Review

Let's talk about the story. The story reminds me of the 1973 classic "Enter the Dragon". But this film is nothing like that.

Let's talk about the two main stars. Jackie Chan & John Cena, what a random duo. This would surely turn out to be a horrible movie, right? Well, no. Chan and Cena have some good chemistry and great lines in the bloopers and the movie.

Let's talk about the action. The action is enjoyable, but really nothing special. It becomes less special when you release Jackie was 64 at the time this was filmed, so all his performances are mostly stunt doubles. This is an average run of the mill one of his movies where the idea of having him in a role is cool but the movie doesn't turn out to be that cool.

The dialogue is pretty funny, I can say that. But I can ALSO say that this movie relies on the dialogue and none of the action, really. There's no cool tricks or kicking, just guns and running and random punching.

I can say the film could have been a lot better but still pretty enjoyable.

Rating: 5.5/10


 

9.12.24

Bruce Lee is Blood And Steels in ENTER THE DRAGON

 

Starring, written and choreographed by BRUCE LEE

a ROBERT CLAUSE film
Written by    Michael Allin
Produced by    

    Fred Weintraub
    Paul Heller
    Raymond Chow

Starring    

    Bruce Lee
    John Saxon
    Ahna Capri
    Bob Wall
    Shih Kien
    Jim Kelly

Cinematography    Gilbert Hubbs
Edited by    

    Kurt Hirschler
    George Watters
    Peter Cheung

Music by    Lalo Schifrin
Production
companies
    

    Sequoia Pictures
    Concord Production Inc.
    Warner Bros.

Distributed by    

    Golden Harvest (Hong Kong)
    Warner Bros. (International)

Release dates
    

    26 July 1973 (Hong Kong)

    19 August 1973 (United States)

August 1973 (Australia)


 

Synopsis

 Lee plays a martial-arts expert determined to help capture the narcotics dealer whose gang was responsible for the death of his sister. Lee enters a kung fu competition in an attempt to fight his way to the dealer's headquarters with the help of some friends.

Review

Bruce Lee's final film, "Enter The Dragon" was the first movie to be produced by a major Hollywood company, Warner Brothers. So other companies tried to cash in the fame such as National General Pictures, re-relasing The Big Boss as Fists Of Fury like Bryanstron Productions, which in 1974, released Way of Dragon as The Return of the Dragon. This film sure does crap on Return of the Dragon (just a joke. I love both films) or whatever you call it.

Yesterday (January 25, 2023) I went to the home video shop to get some movies. They only had Enter the Dragon on Blu-Ray, resulting in my first Blu-ray. And gosh, do I love this film. If I had the chance I'd rewatch it! (I'll do it another day.) 

The film has some appearances from Sammo Hung (he gets to fight Bruce Lee) and Jackie Chan (he gets to get a butt-whupping by Lee) This film is so amazing I'm doubting it being made by humans. You can feel every single hit through the screen!

Jim Kelly's character dies not long into the movie, but his lines feel natural, and he brings a light hearted feel to the movie, but this isn't a comedy. Just some really good action and dialogue from the actors.


 

Not to mention the funky Lalo Schrifin soundtrack, which got 5 hundred thousand copies sold. Enter the Dragon has a soundtrack that uses a lot of bass and piano, and it has resemblance to Kevin Bassinson's score for Police Story, but this is actually way better. Shih Khen has a wonderful performance as a villian

The choreography by Bruce is the best in all of his movies, and that counts Game of Death II (I've never watched Game of Death.). This film is an absolute masterpiece and you NEED to watch it. I know that whenever an actor's films is really popular like Rumble in the Bronx [Jackie Chan] and Lethal Weapon III [Joe Pesci] It turns out to be crappy. But, trust me. THIS IS NOT THE CASE. Enter the Dragon is one of the best movies in the world. I don't care rather it's with piracy, VHS, DVD, Blu-Ray, 4K, Netflix, WATCH THE GODDAMN FILM!!

Rating: 10/10 (best. bruce lee film. EVER!!!)


18.11.24

The Karate Kid - A classic redefined for new generations

 

Directed byHarald Zwart
Screenplay by    Christopher Murphey
Story by    Robert Mark Kamen
Produced by   
    Jerry Weintraub
    Will Smith
    Jada Pinkett Smith
    James Lassiter
    Ken Stovitz
Starring   
    Jaden Smith
    Jackie Chan
    Taraji P. Henson
Cinematography    Roger Pratt
Edited by    Joel Negron
Music by  James Horner
Production
companies
    
    Columbia Pictures
    China Film Group

Overbrook Entertainment

JW Productions
Distributed by Sony Pictures Releasing

Release date (Australia): July 8, 2010

Synopsis

When Dre Parker (Jaden Smith) and his mother (Taraji P. Henson) move from Detroit to China, Dre feels lost in a world very different from what he knows. Bullied and beaten up by some fellow students in his school, Dre is rescued by his apartment building's handyman, Mr. Han (Jackie Chan), a man who is mourning
a devastating loss. Mr. Han takes pity on Dre and agrees to teach him kung fu to defend himself. Training together, teacher and student learn to trust each other, and ultimately form a friendship that heals them both.

   Review 

Okay, so my opinions on this film are HIGHLY ridden by nostalgia, the first time I watched this was in 2019. I remember those days. Re-watching this movie, using Incredibox on my Dad's laptop, twirling around in the chair, the air-con on, researching Bruce Lee.. ahh. But nevertheless, it is a good movie.

The Karate Kid is one of the most highly-known American action drama films ever, especially the first three films from 1984, '86, and '89. The 2010 sequel is the least discussed film.. oh.. yeah. Next Karate Kid 1994. Never mind. Anyways, the Karate Kid 2010 is a reboot starring Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith which is hated, but in my opinion pretty good. 

I think the acting in this movie is realistic and natural, and Mr Han's backstory makes the film better and there is also a lesson in the film thanks to the scenes. The direction with the music is amazing. The soundtrack makes the film feel better, unlike other films I've watched, with the soundtrack not being good enough. This is perfect.

Anyways, good film.

Rating: 8/10

 


 

12.8.24

Burning Fists, Broken Hearts: A Review of Fist of Fury

 

Directed & written by Lo Wei

Uncredited co-writer: Ni Kuang

Composed by & starring Bruce Lee

Produced by Raymond Chow

Starring
Nora Miao
Riki Hashimoto
Cinematography  Chen Ching-chu
Edited by  Peter Cheung
Music by Joseph Koo
Distributed by Golden Harvest

Release date (Australia): July 1, 1973

Synopsis

 A young man seeks vengence for the death of his teacher.

Review 

All I ever hear action cinema fans talk about is how amazing either how good Lee was in Enter the Dragon or how good he was in this movie - Fist of Fury. And I have to say, they are right.

Bruce Lee plays Cheng Zhen, a Chinese Kung-fu student on a rampage to stop the racism in Japan. He kills many people during the process. One of the reasons I live this movie so much is because of how realistic it is. The Japanese in the 20th century were complete jerks. The world isn't all butterflies and toys. Behind the punches and yelling, there is a lesson behind it. The world should be united and not hating each-other no matter the race. The ending is also the most realistic part of the movie, with the main character dying. The good guy always wins right? Well, no. In this movie he kills & hangs at least 6 people, which is illegal, but it was for a good reason!! He gets shot down by the police which are also very unfair to the Chinese residents. And if you just think about 2020, that's pretty accurate to real life. Why is it a rule that in Hong Kong action cinema, the good guy has something bad happen to him at the end? Drunken Master 2, Fei-hung is blind and mentally stupid. The Young Master, Dragon is in a full-body cast. The Big Boss, Cheng-Chao an gets arrested. Urgh.

But enough the sad parts of this movie, can we talk about the action? This movie was one of the first to use the classic Nunchucks that Bruce Lee would go on to use in The Way of the Dragon, Enter the Dragon & Game of Death. The action is cleanly choreographed, and it might be so fast, but you can see every hit, and it makes you grimace. Mission succeeded! The beginning fight is one of Lee's most iconic fights ever and I see why. Trust me. He beats up about 20 Japanese students all by himself and with little-to-no emotion.

Speaking of emotion, this is a pretty emotional movie, as Lee comes to marry a women but then dies at the end of the movie. This film is one of my highest recommendations, and I guarantee you, you NEED to watch it. 

Rating: 9.5/10

WATCH FIST OF FURY AT 

https://archive.org/details/bruce-lee-fist-of-fury-1972-eng-sub (Cantonese version)

https://archive.org/details/fist-of-fury-bruce-lee-full-movie-in-english-black-belt-movie-night (English dub)

https://www.sbs.com.au/ondemand/movie/fist-of-fury/493677123527 (Original version, Eng subs)


THE WAY OF THE DRAGON review coming soon.



29.7.24

Stupid Spy Kids - The Downfall of the Spy Kids Franchise


 
Directed, produced, composed and written by Robert Rodriguez
Produced by
David Ellison
Dana Goldberg
Don Granger
Elizabeth Avellan
Racer Rodriguez
Written by
Racer Rodriguez
Studio(s)
Skydance Media
Spyglass Media Group
Double R Productions
Distributor
Netflix


 

 

SYNOPSIS

When the children of the world's greatest secret agents unwittingly help a powerful Game Developer unleash a computer virus that gives him control of all technology, they must become spies themselves to save their parents and the world.

Review

OH HELL NO.

While it reboots the franchise with flashy CGI and a new generation of pint-sized heroes, "Armageddon" stumbles over its own nostalgia, leaving us yearning for the days of thumb thumbs.

First, the plot...déjà vu, anyone? It's a carbon copy of the original, with kids unwittingly unleashing a technological menace and stepping up to save the day. Talk about recycled spy gadgets! The sense of originality is as lost as Floop's pet monkey in the sewers.

The characters? Well, let's say they're less "kiddie Kobra" and more "whiny chihuahua." Tony and Patty are blander than a bowl of unseasoned popcorn, lacking the spark and charm of Carmen and Juni. Their "softness" wouldn't melt a popsicle, let alone thwart a world-dominating game developer. No idiot would stop a spy by ASKING him to just be kind, Patty.

And then there's the dialogue, peppered with more "Spy Kids 1" references than a Carmen Cortez fan convention. It's like Rodriguez is desperately trying to remind us of the franchise's glory days, instead of forging its own path. It's pandering, not pioneering.

Ultimately, "Spy Kids: Armageddon" is a nostalgic misfire. It tries to recapture the magic of the original but forgets the ingredients that made it special. It's a pale imitation, leaving us asking: should we just rewatch "Spy Kids 1" and relive the true spy-tastic adventure?

Watch at your own risk. Highly a stupid movie. 

1/10


 


22.7.24

All the Time in the World to Make a Better Film (SPY KIDS 4-D REVIEW)

 

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.

Rating: 3.1/10

 


15.7.24

Game On! Spy Kids III Levels Up the Fun

 

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.

Rating: 6/10

WATCH SPY KIDS III

 GAME OVER

 AT THE 

https://archive.org/download/fantasy.movies.greek.subs/Spy%20Kids%203-D%20Game%20Over%20%282003%29.ia.mp4 (Greek subtitles)



 

 

8.7.24

Island of Lost Dreams: Is Spy Kids 2 a Dream Come True?

 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.

Rating: 8/10 

WATCH SPY KIDS 2

THE ISLAND OF LOST DREAMS

 AT THE


 

https://archive.org/download/fantasy.movies.greek.subs/Spy%20Kids%202%20The%20Island%20of%20Lost%20Dreams%20%282002%29.ia.mp4 (Greek subs)

 


 

 

1.7.24

Thumbtack Thumbs Up: A Spy Kids Mission Review

 

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

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.

10/10


 WATCH SPY KIDS AT THE


 https://archive.org/download/fantasy.movies.greek.subs/Spy%20Kids%20%282001%29.ia.mp4 (Greek subtitles)



27.5.24

Thor III: Ragnarok - This movie RagnaROCKS!!

 


Directed by Taika Waititi

Written by Eric Pearson

    Craig Kyle

    Christopher L. Yost

 Produced by Kevin Feige

Starring 

Chris Hemsworth

    Tom Hiddleston

    Cate Blanchett

    Idris Elba

    Jeff Goldblum

    Tessa Thompson

    Karl Urban

    Mark Ruffalo

    Anthony Hopkins

Release date: November 3, 2017

October 13: 2017 (Australia)


Synopsis

 Imprisoned on the other side of the universe, the mighty Thor finds himself in a deadly gladiatorial contest that pits him against the Hulk, his former ally and fellow Avenger. Thor's quest for survival leads him in a race against time to prevent the all-powerful Hela from destroying his home world and the Asgardian civilization.

Review 

This film is amazing.  Trust me. You need to watch it.

First of all - the fight scene between Hulk and Thor was veeery nerve-racking and amazing, because it wasn't eye-candy, it literally added to the plot.

Secondly -  The film is amazingly funny, and I can't believe it wasn't promoted as a comedy film. Half of the serious scenes have comedy added to them at inappropriate times and they turn out to be the best part of the film.

Also, Chris Hemsworth.

Rating: 9/10

 



20.5.24

Stopping Asia From Crime Lords looks easy compared to taking care of kids in "The Spy Next Door"


Directed by Brian Levant

Screenplay and story by Jonathan Bernstein and James Greer

Screenplay by

    Jonathan Bernstein

    James Greer

    Gregory Poirier

Produced by Robert Simonds

Starring 

Jackie Chan

    Amber Valletta

    Madeline Carroll

    Will Shadley

    Magnús Scheving

    Billy Ray Cyrus

    George Lopez

Release date: January 15, 2010

25 March, 2010 (Australia) 

Synopsis 

Bob Ho (Jackie Chan), an undercover operative for the Central Intelligence Agency, decides to give up his career and marry his girlfriend, Gillian (Amber Valletta). First however, he has one more mission to complete: Gain the approval of Gillian's children. Bob volunteers to baby-sit when Gillian is called away, but the operation hits a snag when one of the kids mistakenly downloads a top-secret formula, and Anton Poldark, a Russian terrorist (Magnus Scheving) takes aim at Bob's prospective family.

Review 

This film sucks. I can remember a lot from it and have no idea why I liked it.

Firstly, the kids in this movie hate Bob Ho for no reason. Sure he isn't your father, but do you have to make life hard for him? That just triggered me. I always hated seeing the hero hated.

Secondly, the fight scenes in the movie are bombared by childish sound effects that are supposed to be funny. I guess when you're seven it is, but I'm mature [and ten years old] and don't laugh at it at all.

 Thirdly, it's a Halloween film. My religion and country prohibit Halloween, but what sucks is that the film doesn't even foreshadow it being October. Once I saw everyone in costumes and trick-or-treating, I was like- 'Huh? It's Halloween?'

Lastly - about 20 or 35 minutes worth of this 94 minute film are actually funny and possible to laugh at. The other are not.

The only thing that makes it good is Jackie Chan's charm and Magnus Scheving's performance. Not to mention the ending credits, which have bloopers funnier then the film.

But when you think of it as a film to have a good time with and not take too seriously, you can find it pretty good, if you have a mental illness.

Watch "The Spy Next Door" at the

https://archive.org/details/the-spy-next-door
https://archive.org/details/l77h4k59 (Along with other action/comedy/Hong Kong films)

Rating: 4/10

 

 

6.5.24

Die Hard 4.0 has so much action your popcorn will burn!




 Directed by Len Wiseman

Screenplay and story by Mark Bomback

Story by David Marconi


Based on "A Farewell to Arms" by John Carlin

   Produced by Michael Fottrell

Starring 

Bruce Willis

    Justin Long

    Timothy Olyphant

    Mary Elizabeth Winstead

    Cliff Curtis

    Maggie Q

Release date: June 22, 2007

Release date: August 10, 2007 (Australia) 



Synopsis

 As the nation prepares to celebrate Independence Day, veteran cop John McClane (Bruce Willis) carries out another routine assignment: bringing in a computer hacker (Justin Long) for questioning. Meanwhile, a tech-savvy villain named Thomas Gabriel (Timothy Olyphant) launches an attack on America's computer infrastructure. As chaos descends around him, McClane must use old-fashioned methods to fight the high-tech threat.


 

Review

Die Hard 4.0 was produced from 2005-2006, where special effects started to get very advanced, so that's why this movie is loaded with them. Unlike most of my favourite action films (Police Story, Project A, Super Cop), almost half the movie is CGI and VFX and it still manages to be likeable.

The movie is bombarded with funny dialogue between Matt and McClane, which portrayers both have amazing chemistry together.

While the movie is PG-13, you might expect that to impact some of the action, but the only thing it DID impact was the profanity. 

Many f-bombs and s-words were cut out but put back in for the Unrated Version.


 In Australia, Die Hard 4.0 was released with the PG-13 cut with an M rating, the same as the others in the series (The Australian Classification Board is less strict with regards to language and to a lesser extent, violence). The unrated version was later released on DVD and Blu-ray also with an M rating. The film, notably never released in home media with its theatrical cut, has only been released in Australia as the extended edition. 

But despite what version I watched the film in, it was still good and not a disappointment. The fight scenes are still up to the same standard [and a bit better] then in the first three movies. 

The quality in this movie has seem to gone up. Old Habits of making a mediocre film Died Hard.

And lastly, the important question - Live free or Die Hard?

Die hard.

Watch Live Free or Die Hard on

https://tubitv.com/movies/622893/live-free-or-die-hard

Watch Die Hard 4.0 at the 

https://archive.org/details/live.-free.or.-die.-hard.-2007.-h-265.1080p.-dvdrip.-ezz-rips (DVD rip)


Rating: 8/10



 

15.4.24

MIIB: The Sequel Nobody Expected and Wanted

 They're Back in Black.

Directed by Barry Sonnenfeld

Screenplay by   

    Robert Gordon

    Barry Fanaro


Story by Robert Gordon

Based on The Men in Black

by Lowell Cunningham

Produced by

Walter F. Parkes

    Laurie MacDonald
Starring   

    Tommy Lee Jones

    Will Smith

    Lara Flynn Boyle

    Johnny Knoxville

    Rosario Dawson

    Tony Shalhoub

    Rip Torn

Synopsis 

Kay (Tommy Lee Jones) and Jay (Will Smith) reunite to provide our best line of defense against a seductress who levels the toughest challenge yet to the MIBs mission statement: protecting the earth from the scum of the universe. While investigating a routine crime, Jay uncovers a plot masterminded by Serleena (Boyle), a Kylothian monster who disguises herself as a lingerie model. When Serleena takes the MIB building hostage, there is only one person Jay can turn to -- his former MIB partner. 

Review 

I have nothing to say about the film. I have the same feelings about it as with the original Men In Black, but it doesn't add up to the original.

The humor has slightly become less funny.

Rating: 5/10 


 

1.4.24

Rush Hour 2: Faster then the original!






Directed by Brett Ratner

Written by Jeff Nathanson

Produced by Roger Birnbaum

Starring Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker, John Lone, Zhang Ziyi


Release date: August 3, 2001

Synopsis

While LAPD Detective James Carter and RHKPF Chief Inspector Lee are vacationing in Hong Kong, 
a bomb explosion at the US Consulate kills two undercover customs agents. 
Soon, Lee is assigned to solve the case.

Review


Hate me or not, this film is THE best Rush Hour film so far. Firstly, the humor has become ]
better, Jackie Chan's acting has improved, and the fight choreography is better. Sure, the film is from
the US, but it has Jackie's classic slapstick from his Hong Kong movies, and a big stunt (TWO of
them! ONE DONE BY CHRIS TUCKER!) 
Watch Rush Hour 2 at the Internet Archive - https://archive.org/details/123jucky 
archive.org/details/rush-hour2
Watch Rush Hour 2 at Dailymotion- https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x69wjwc





Rating: 7/10




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