>
Elliott Collins
Tomatometer-approved critic
Elliott with MovieFiles is a St. Louis based Film Critic apart of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. I provide fun but also informative reviews with my unique experiences paired with my personality through my YouTube channel “MovieFiles”. Love discovering and discussing movies and television shows and excited to discuss them with you all!”
Movies reviews only
| Rating | T-Meter | Title | Year | Review |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
The Color Purple (2023) |
This features a stellar ensemble cast, energetic direction, and some exceptional musical numbers. Despite some rushed moments in the narrative, this story's themes shines through. An uplifting crowd pleaser, perfect for the holiday season.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Dec 20, 2023
|
|
|
|
Maestro (2023) |
Bradley Cooper's direction was very ambitious and resulted in beautiful scenes. Carey Mulligan's performance is both powerful and breathtaking, and she truly shines in the movie. Unfortunately, I struggled to have much of any connections to this story.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Dec 18, 2023
|
|
|
|
American Fiction (2023) |
A satisfying and clever satirical comedy, American Fiction exposes elements of the media that are obsessed with portraying black trauma and exploiting black stereotypes as entertainments. Great cast and Jeffery Wright delivers a very nuanced performance. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Dec 15, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Zone of Interest (2023) |
This very experimental film that can be extremely challenging to watch, not only because of its subject matter, but also because it lacks a plot. The distinction between what you hear and what you don't see is highly effective.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Dec 14, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Boy and the Heron (2023) |
This story is both visually stunning & profound in its exploration of grief and empathy. This coming-of-age journey is unpredictable, incredibly adventurous, & complex, and the film takes its time to fully understand it, which is enjoyable for all ages.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Dec 12, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Iron Claw (2023) |
This film hits its signature move by showcasing the emotionally devastating and tragic true story of the Von Erich family. The personal story is the foundation of the film, but as a kid who watched Wrestling, I absolutely LOVED the wrestling moments . - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Dec 12, 2023
|
|
|
|
Poor Things (2023) |
The filmmaking is REMARKABLE & Emma Stone delivers one of the most captivating performances I’ve EVER seen. A COMPELLING story about a person learning what it means to live. It's not for everybody but I mostly found it to be beyond BRILLIANT!!
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Dec 08, 2023
|
|
|
|
Leave the World Behind (2023) |
A peculiar, apocalyptic psychological thriller that relies on excellent direction and exceptional performances. Although the mystery of what is happening is familiar, the human behavior aspects were highly compelling.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Dec 06, 2023
|
|
|
|
Dream Scenario (2023) |
I LOVED the concept, paired with a interesting take on instant modern online fame & what happens when cancelled. Nicolas Cage plays the nerdy college professor haunting people’s dreams perfectly. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Nov 29, 2023
|
|
|
|
Silent Night (2023) |
As a fan of John Woo, it pains me to say this but Silent Night is BAD! The script was awful and overstuffed with EVERY single stereotype & trope you’ve ever seen in a revenge B level action film with absolutely no originality whatsoever!
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Nov 29, 2023
|
|
|
|
Saltburn (2023) |
It's a dark and twisted cross between Cruel Intentions and The Talented Mr. Ripley but super weird as sh**. I wanted to love this more but was mostly disappointed in the first 45 mins but the picks up in the 2nd half and ends on a strong note.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Nov 22, 2023
|
|
|
|
Napoleon (2023) |
Highlighted by great battle sequences, set designs & overall production quality is FLAWLESS but unfortunately everything was extremely underwhelming. There's too much jumping around from event to event without much depth. The script is poorly written. .
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Nov 22, 2023
|
|
|
|
May December (2023) |
This film masterfully handles its various tones of feeling uncomfortable to laughing at the melodramatic moments almost perfectly. Moore and Portman are both sensational but Charles Melton is outstanding in this very difficult and complex role.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Nov 17, 2023
|
|
|
|
Thanksgiving (2023) |
This is a slashers fan dream; KILLER opening, creative kills, a homage to 80’s/90’s classics with a solid whodunnit at its core. This turkey is STUFFED with with such goodness from start to finish. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Nov 17, 2023
|
|
|
|
Next Goal Wins (2023) |
Overall, it's an underdog sports movie with some fun moments and entertaining characters but doesn’t hit on the emotional side as well as it should and ends up being a pretty average movie.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Nov 16, 2023
|
|
|
|
Rustin (2023) |
Colman Domingo gives a award winning performance. His incredible talent radiates in every scene, as we explore this story about perseverance and self worth. George C. Wolfe direction is both upbeat and inspirational. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Nov 16, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Holdovers (2023) |
This movie works on so many levels; from the very real and relatable story, Paynes poignant direction, to the beautiful snowy setting, the perfectly placed humor, to the wonderful and world class performances. It’s a delightful holiday instant classic…
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Nov 16, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023) |
Great chemistry with Zegler & Blyth & really enjoyed supporting roles from Dinklage, Schafer and Viola Davis was EXCELLENT as the villain. It loses monumental at a certain point & some elements are not fully realized but overall a film worth watching! - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Nov 16, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Marvels (2023) |
Ms. Marvel & Monica Rambeau carried this film but, they managed to make Captain Marvel a more interesting character. It’s not perfect but it's self aware & better than the original & just a action packed space adventure w/3 characters w/great chemistry! - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Nov 08, 2023
|
|
|
|
Priscilla (2023) |
While enjoying the individual performances and certain moments throughout the film, collectively speaking, there’s not a lot going on. I’m a fan of Coppola's work and I might end up in the minority on this one but it just didn’t work for me.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Nov 03, 2023
|
|
|
|
Five Nights at Freddy's (2023) |
As someone who’s never played the game & had zero expectations, I thought FNAF Movie was just ok. Based on my experience with the crowd, this had ENDGAME levels of reactions for fans of the IP but for casual's like myself, its a adequate PG-13 film.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Oct 26, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Killer (2023) |
This is a very simple and straightforward noir thriller story you’ve seen before but its a well polished with Fincher’s meticulous approach. This is a pretty high quality thriller but lacks the depth and complexity of Fincher’s best work.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Oct 26, 2023
|
|
|
|
When Evil Lurks (2023) |
A very unique and interesting take on a possession situation that I wished was more fleshed out, but it is one of the most disturbing movies you'll EVER see. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Oct 23, 2023
|
|
|
|
Ballerina (2023) |
It’s not as refined but it’s basically John Wick meets Kill Bill! Jeon Jong-seo was incredible and Kim Ji-hoon is great as the villain. Badass fights, amazing soundtrack - go watch this movie!
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Oct 22, 2023
|
|
|
|
Killers of the Flower Moon (2023) |
This is a dark & devastating retrospective story about greed and corruption. The performances given by DiCpario, De Niro and Gladstone, is nothing short of masterful. This is one of Scorseses most personal & important films - very poignant and intimate. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Oct 16, 2023
|
|
|
|
Fair Play (2023) |
Great productions elements to it with the score, cinematography, great directorial debut and strong performances especially from Phoebe but the lack of relationship building to get to where they end up should’ve been more of the focus to start.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Oct 05, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Exorcist: Believer (2023) |
This completely missed the mark for me. It’s dull, lacks any originality or creativity. Never truly interested in fully developing any plot or narrative. The religious plot was messy. Their are solid performances but the film is just a mess!
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Oct 05, 2023
|
|
|
|
Saw X (2023) |
This gets back to the basics! Having Jigsaw as the lead, makes it 10x more personal and frankly more compelling. Its flawed but it's easily one of the best entries in the franchise, with simplify making it a character driven story. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Sep 30, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Creator (2023) |
Edwards pays homage to the greats that have inspired & influenced the genre but still adds his unique style, paired perfectly with Fraser/Soffer cinematography and Zimmer’s amazing Score. I consider this a MUST watch for fans of science fiction!
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Sep 27, 2023
|
|
|
|
No One Will Save You (2023) |
This was incredibly unique & clever take on a home/alien invasion with great direction and a home run of a performance from Kaitlyn Dever. The sound design is top notch. This is a lean 90 min creative & thrilling experience that I can’t recommend enough… - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Sep 26, 2023
|
|
|
|
Strange Darling (2023) |
Strange Darling is a quintessential “WHAT DID I JUST WATCH” but in the BEST way. It’s an incredibly made, twisted cat & mouse non linear film that will have you shocked by all the surprises along the way. Willa Fitzgerald gives a world class performance.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Sep 26, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Coffee Table (2022) |
After about 10 mins into the movie, I was left uncomfortably speechless. The acting is was great and the director really plays with tension incredibly well for its 90 min runtime. It deals with conflict and unspoken issues within relationships so well. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Sep 26, 2023
|
|
|
|
River (2023) |
Easily, one of the BEST time looping experiences I’ve seen. The filmmakers, truly put together such a cleverly crafted fun and impressive complex technical achievement, that will have a marvelous lasting profound effect on you after you finish it.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Sep 26, 2023
|
|
|
|
Pet Sematary: Bloodlines (2023) |
Sometimes dead is better! I found a lot of the dialogue to be flat an extremely repetitive. The performance and acting in general was blend and generic and the scares were very minimal and not creative at all. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Sep 26, 2023
|
|
|
|
Dumb Money (2023) |
The film is very self aware and fully accepts the absurdly of this never before experienced situation. It’s chaotic, has good laughs paired with great performances and if you asked if I’m buying or selling this movie - I’m 100%
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Sep 21, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Nun II (2023) |
I found the story and creatives decisions made in this sequel to be significantly better than its predecessors. Really solid performances across the board but the story suffers from too many underwhelming subplots that don't add much to the main plot. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Sep 12, 2023
|
|
|
|
A Haunting in Venice (2023) |
This is a adequate enough suspenseful whodunit murder mystery, that definitely surpasses the last film. Branagh does a good job directing a rather subpar script. The supernatural parts were more compelling than the very underwhelming mystery reveal.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Sep 12, 2023
|
|
|
|
Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story (2023) |
This Neill Blomkamp best film since 2009 District 9. It follows tropes that we've seen before, but the performances from Archie Madekwe, David Harbour and Djimon Hounsou truly evaluate and compliment this remarkable true story. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Aug 29, 2023
|
|
|
|
Blue Beetle (2023) |
While it plays like a lot of most superhero films, this still has its own unique charm and that's due to the style and culture that makes this a entertainment watch. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Aug 29, 2023
|
|
|
|
Heart of Stone (2023) |
While it does get better as it goes along and offers some solid performances from our main leads and some occasional fun action sequences. This, unfortunately is yet another run of the mill forgettable Netflix action film, you've seen 1000 times. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Aug 11, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Last Voyage of the Demeter (2023) |
It does a good job of creating a creepy atmospheric environment and stays consistent in tone. Performances evaluate this VERY blend narrative but. This chapter of a novel falls short in many ways, one being the story which doesn’t support the runtime. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Aug 10, 2023
|
|
|
|
Brother (2022) |
This is a very quiet and subtle film with incredibly beautiful and endearing performances by Aaron Pierce and Lamar Johnson. It’s a very gut-wrenching emotional coming of age story set in 90s with great direction. Reminded me of a Barry Jenkins film.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Aug 07, 2023
|
|
|
|
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023) |
Mutant Mayhem is an absolute WINNER! It’s a good mixture of nostalgia for someone like myself (fan since the 90’s) while also embracing newcomers — but also made me feel like I was experiencing a newer version of Ninja Turtles for the first time.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Jul 28, 2023
|
|
|
|
Sympathy for the Devil (2023) |
This is a straightforward psychological cat and mouse thriller with nothing really new to offer, but… If you’re looking for Nicolas Cage to go full CAGE, with awful red hair and an terrible Boston accent, than this is the film for you.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Jul 27, 2023
|
|
|
|
Haunted Mansion (2023) |
This film is tonally incompetent. Has a paper thin story and took forever to figure out what it was trying to be. Now the message of coping and getting past your fears and grief was honesty handled pretty well but other than that, its pretty forgettable. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Jul 26, 2023
|
|
|
|
Talk to Me (2023) |
The premise by itself is worth seeing this film. Definitely has some effective scares and some haunting imagery throughout and I loved the practical makeup used. Has a mixture of “It Follows” and “Hereditary” but with its own unique tone and style.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Jul 24, 2023
|
|
|
|
White Men Can't Jump (2023) |
I really wish Hollywood would realize that you can’t just clap a title on a beloved film and repackage with no originality or depth. This lacked character development, story structure, chemistry and at the end of the day, its just a poorly made film. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Jul 23, 2023
|
|
|
|
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023) |
Across The Spider verse takes it to another LEVEL! The animation/art styles are spectacular, the character dynamics and relationships are complex and layered. It’s a nonstop multiversal adventure that puts its story first above all. - Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Jul 23, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Little Mermaid (2023) |
Halle Bailey was born to be a Disney Princess INCREDIBLE! The visuals were pretty solid and the songs were great. It’s not without It’s flaws and a bit too long but overall, I’m very excited for everyone to see Halle bring this classic princess to life.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Jul 23, 2023
|
|
|
|
The Blackening (2022) |
Definitely a Crowd Pleaser, a lot of great laughs, really solid direction and incredibly likeable characters and a cast that just worked.
- Movie Files
Read More
| Posted Jul 23, 2023
|