Pee-wee's Big Adventure is one of those films that will test your patience with the central character. Paul Reuben never managed to shake off the character and it remains his most recognised character after all these years. The film was a slight hit at the box office but the strength of the film lies in its craziness. Tim Burton was in his infancy as a filmmaker but he gives this film more creativity and showcases an early talent to create something unique. The first 10 minutes was a little rough as I had to get my head around the Pee-wee character but after that the film managed to settle into one of the cult gems from the era. I'm shocked I hadn't found this film earlier and it's a lost gem for collectors like myself. The plot allows the film to go any out there storyline and that's what makes this film great. 07/01/2021
The Midnight Sky is one of those high concept ideas that never reaches its potential. I had been intrigued to see what George Clooney could accomplish with a high budget and a streaming platform not known for strong arming filmmakers on final cut. The end product is mixed and the overall tone is all over the place. The film feels safe and it never allows the supporting cast the opportunity to shine. I found the film to be too short. The overall idea was interesting and the Clooney character moments are what keeps this film together. I had heard of the mixed reception prior to watching and it wasn't until the middle I found the film started to sink underneath its on weight. There was an opportunity for Clooney to really land a sci fi concept with little restraint but this sadly falls into the very common pile of Netflix films that don't work. 04/01/2021
Sound of Metal is quite possibly the number film of 2020. I know the pandemic has slowed Hollywood's usual push for the award season but Sound of Metal would've been in the competition regardless. The film is anchored by raw performances and it's unlike anything you'll see, it's refreshing to see an original film. I had been skeptical that the film would elevate to the heights of the acclaim surrounding it but it does. The support cast ensure this feels real and in the moment, and the lead performances push this into something incredible. Riz Ahmad was wasted in a film like Venom and it's a shame Hollywood spits these actors out with thankless roles. Olivia Cooke continues her successful transition from Bates Hotel and she has managed to surround herself with strong filmmakers and actors. This is a must-see for 2020. 04/01/2021
Swamp Thing is one of those concepts that struggles when it is transferred from its source material. Wes Craven might've been the right choice on paper but he struggles to create anything scary or eventful throughout the films running time. The studio clearly had its finger in the pie and the film is essentially lost. I had been excited to see this film but once it was in the bluray player I wasn't entirely convinced. Wes Craven is one of my favourite horror filmmakers but he struggled with films outside of the genre, or he struggled with producers for final credit. The film isn't without merit and some of the creature moments are intriguing, but that finale is not exactly great. 04/01/2021
Serpico has been on my to watch list since forever and I finally made the time to check it out. Al Pacino was at the height of his career when he was teaming with Lumet and Serpico is probably one of my favourite for Pacino. The film rests on his shoulders and he has to carry most of the movie without any heavy support. Serpico mightn't be the grand film about corrupt policemen but it's a tense couple of hours and Lumet ensures there's no shortage of character development. I'm a little annoyed I never watched more of Sidney Lumet growing up as he is kind of the guy behind these police corruption drama films. I can't recommend this film enough. 13/12/2020
