Deadpool and Wolverine

 

Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)

A High-Octane Celebration of Nostalgia and Fan Service

★★★½☆

The most fun I've had in a theater since Top Gun: Maverick—an unabashedly enjoyable love letter to the Fox era.

Directed by Shawn Levy, Deadpool & Wolverine is a legitimate mixed bag that prioritizes visceral fun over narrative consequence. While the film delivers laughs and excitement in spades for comic book aficionados, its overall contribution to the broader MCU tapestry feels shockingly insular. It suffers from the same "running in place" momentum that has plagued recent multiverse entries, trading the tight building blocks of the Infinity Saga for listless adventures and low-stakes obstacles.

"This is a cinematic celebration, that is meant to be enjoyed with good friends together with no thoughts of heavy, existential debates. For two hours everything is going to be alright."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Shawn Levy
• Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman
• Supporting: Emma Corrin, Matthew Macfadyen
• Producer: Kevin Feige

The Vision

What Shawn Levy and Ryan Reynolds have crafted is less of an artistic exercise and more of a community event. It embraces a "shameless travel down memory lane," serving as a definitive tribute to the Marvel Fox films. While it may lack the soul-inspiring contemplation of top-tier cinema, it succeeds in providing the "eye candy" and hearty laughs that the film community has craved amidst recent industry strikes and streaming wars. It’s a celebratory moment meant for popcorn, not pedantry.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Hugh’s Return: After the definitive ending of 2017's Logan, Hugh Jackman decided to return to the role of Wolverine after a spontaneous road trip conversation with Ryan Reynolds.
• The R-Rating: This marks the first film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to be released with an R rating, allowing the franchise to maintain Deadpool's signature crude humor and gore.
• Cameo Count: The film utilized a massive amount of physical sets rather than green screens to ground the various multiverse cameos in a more "lived-in" aesthetic.

✅ Pros

• Incredible comedic timing and "visceral fun" for fans.
• Touching, warm tributes to the 20th Century Fox Marvel era.
• Exceptional chemistry between Reynolds and Jackman.

❌ Cons

• Shockingly insular narrative that doesn't advance the MCU.
• Generic "multiverse" storybook structure.
• Weak antagonist and relatively low-stakes resolution.

🏆 Final Verdict

A masterpiece of fan service. While the artistic merits are debatable, the entertainment value is undeniable. Stop worrying about the "tapestry" and just enjoy the celebration.

View original review on Letterboxd

The Bikeriders

 

The Bikeriders (2023)

A Meandering Descent from Social Club to Crime Syndicate

★★½☆☆

A visually polished but narratively thin disappointment that struggles to move beyond looking cool.

Directed by Jeff Nichols, The Bikeriders is a meandering story that tracks the dissolution of a budding social club into a legitimate crime gang. Narrated by Jodie Comer, the film features high-caliber performers like Tom Hardy and Austin Butler, but ultimately suffers from a plot that goes nowhere slowly. While the aesthetic is undeniable, the script leaves the talented cast with little to do besides look brooding on motorcycles, resulting in a film that feels more like a collection of poses than a cohesive drama.

"Considering the talent involved I'd say the film is a massive disappointment... Everything looks great, but the performers don't really have much to do except look cool and ride motorcycles."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director/Writer: Jeff Nichols
• Starring: Jodie Comer, Austin Butler, Tom Hardy
• Supporting: Michael Shannon, Boyd Holbrook, Norman Reedus
• Source Material: Danny Lyon (Photobook)

The Vision

Jeff Nichols, usually a master of intimate Southern Gothic storytelling, attempts to translate Danny Lyon's iconic 1967 photobook into a feature film. However, the source material’s lack of a traditional narrative arc haunts the production. The film relies heavily on Jodie Comer’s narration to bridge the gaps, but her divisive dialect choices often rob the scenes of their intended gravitas. Compared to genre staples like Sons of Anarchy, the film fails to offer anything groundbreaking or unique enough to justify the revisit to this subculture.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• The Real Kathy: Jodie Comer spent hours listening to the original tapes of Kathy (the person she portrays) recorded by Danny Lyon to replicate her specific Chicago accent.
• Period Authenticity: The motorcycles used in the film were largely period-correct Harleys and Indians, and the actors underwent extensive training to handle the vintage bikes without modern safety features.
• Long Wait: Jeff Nichols first encountered Danny Lyon’s book in 2003 and spent nearly 20 years ruminating on how to adapt the still images into a moving story.

✅ Pros

• Stunning cinematography and authentic 1960s production design.
• Charismatic presence from the lead trio of Hardy, Butler, and Comer.
• Evocative atmosphere that captures the "cool" of biker culture.

❌ Cons

• Meandering, slow-paced plot that lacks a strong narrative drive.
• Divisive dialect choices that can make characters feel like caricatures.
• Fails to bring a unique perspective compared to existing biker dramas.

🏆 Final Verdict

An unfortunate case of style over substance. Despite the considerable skill of Jeff Nichols and his A-list cast, The Bikeriders is an atmospheric misfire that never quite manages to kick-start its engine.

View original review on Letterboxd

The Bricklayer

 

The Bricklayer (2023)

A Prototypical Spy Film Hampered by Circumstance

★★☆☆☆

A clunky, half-baked actioner that manages to find a few sparks in its fight choreography.

Directed by veteran filmmaker Renny Harlin, The Bricklayer feels like a project compromised by circumstances beyond its control. Starring Aaron Eckhart as a retired CIA operative forced back into the fold, the film suffers from clunky dialogue and a screenplay that desperately needed another polish. While Harlin still possesses the ability to shoot an entertaining action sequence, the overall production feels rushed, resulting in a narrative that is often incoherent and lacking in believability.

"Critics can obviously dismiss the film as something that probably shouldn't exist. But I think films like this have a place... they provide jobs and help other projects be developed by learning from mistakes."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Renny Harlin
• Starring: Aaron Eckhart, Nina Dobrev
• Supporting: Clifton Collins Jr., Tim Blake Nelson
• Source Material: Paul Lindsay (Novel)

The Vision

Renny Harlin, the man behind Die Hard 2 and Cliffhanger, attempts to bring an old-school grit to this modern spy tale. Unfortunately, the vision is let down by a budget and schedule that seem insufficient for the scale of the stunts and casting required. Aaron Eckhart gives his best effort, but the pairing with Nina Dobrev—who feels unfortunately miscast—struggles to find the necessary chemistry to elevate the half-baked plot. It’s a film for an audience with low expectations and high tolerance for generic tropes.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Harlin’s Return: This film marks one of several recent collaborations between Renny Harlin and the Greek/Bulgarian production hubs, where many modern mid-budget actioners are now filmed to maximize resources.
• Literary Roots: The film is based on the 2010 novel by Noah Boyd (a pseudonym for former FBI agent Paul Lindsay), which was highly praised for its technical accuracy—much of which was unfortunately lost in translation here.
• Eckhart’s Prep: Aaron Eckhart actually trained in basic masonry and bricklaying to add a layer of physical authenticity to his character's "retired" life.

✅ Pros

• Renny Harlin still knows how to frame a solid fight sequence.
• Aaron Eckhart provides a committed, professional lead performance.
• A functional "comfort food" watch for die-hard action completists.

❌ Cons

• Clunky dialogue and a largely incoherent, half-baked screenplay.
• Nina Dobrev feels miscast in her role as a junior agent.
• 明显 (Obvious) budget constraints affecting the overall polish.

🏆 Final Verdict

Mediocrity personified. While it serves a purpose in the Hollywood ecosystem of keeping crews employed, The Bricklayer is a tough recommendation for anyone seeking a sharp or memorable spy thriller.

View original review on Letterboxd

Beverly Hills Cop Axel F

 

Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (2024)

The Limits of Nostalgia and the Weight of 80s Tropes

★★½☆☆

Eddie Murphy remains charismatic, but the "sound and fury" of the plot often falls flat.

Directed by Mark Molloy, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F is equal parts fun and predictably tired. While it’s a joy to see Eddie Murphy reprise his most famous role alongside legacy characters, the hijinks quickly defy believability. Axel Foley remains the same blunt instrument he was in the 80s—shooting first and asking questions later—even when his age suggests he should be moving toward more elegant crime solving rather than dodging automatic rifle fire on Wilshire Blvd.

"There was an opportunity here to maybe change the tone up a bit... Instead, what we get is Foley chasing perps in a semi through heavy traffic... which likely stakes his claim as the unluckiest street detective in cinematic history."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Mark Molloy
• Starring: Eddie Murphy, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Taylour Paige
• Legacy Cast: Judge Reinhold, John Ashton, Paul Reiser
• Platform: Netflix

The Vision

The filmmakers seem trapped by the franchise's roots, doubling down on the reckless "cowboy" mentality that defined the original trilogy. While Murphy himself has noted that at 63 he "shouldn't be hanging off car hoods anymore," the production doesn't trust the audience to enjoy a slower, more suspense-driven mystery. The film is at its best when it slows down to let Murphy’s comedic affability shine, yet it too often retreats into loud, violent spectacles that eventually feel strangely boring.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Decades in the Making: A fourth Beverly Hills Cop film had been in various stages of development since the mid-90s, with directors like Brett Ratner and Adil El Arbi previously attached.
• Practical Pedigree: Director Mark Molloy insisted on using as many practical stunts as possible to capture the tangible feel of 80s action cinema.
• The "Axel F" Theme: Harold Faltermeyer’s iconic synth theme was updated by composer Lorne Balfe, who integrated it with a more modern orchestral soundscape.

✅ Pros

• Eddie Murphy remains effortlessly charismatic and funny.
• Great to see the original "legacy" cast back together.
• Genuine laughs when the dialogue is allowed to breathe.

❌ Cons

• Plot gets too loud, violent, and repetitive.
• Foley's reckless behavior defies modern believability.
• Missed opportunity to evolve the character’s methodology.

🏆 Final Verdict

A functional nostalgia trip that works best as a "hangout movie" but falters as an action-thriller. Murphy is the anchor, but the sound and fury surrounding him signify very little.

View original review on Letterboxd

Shot Caller

 

Shot Caller (2017)

A Soul-Crushing Descent into the Heart of Darkness

★★★½☆

A painfully dark and suspenseful prison drama that offers no easy exits.

Directed by Ric Roman Waugh, Shot Caller is a no-holds-barred look at how a single moment can cause a life to spin out of control and "break bad" in an instant. Featuring a transformative lead performance by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, the film navigates the brutal hierarchies of the American penal system. This is a story of impossible, no-win situations—a bleak tale that haunts the viewer long after the credits roll, requiring a comedic "palette cleanser" just to shake the throes of morbid contemplation it creates.

"It's like watching an actors workshop of performers putting themselves through a catharsis of trauma for their art... a story of how life can spin out of control and break bad in an instant."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director/Writer: Ric Roman Waugh
• Starring: Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Jon Bernthal
• Supporting: Jeffrey Donovan, Holt McCallany, Lake Bell
• Genre: Crime / Prison Drama

The Vision

Ric Roman Waugh eschews the traditional Hollywood redemption arc, opting instead for a gritty realism that feels both mesmerizing and unforgiving. The film thrives on its ensemble of renowned character actors—including Jeffrey Donovan and Holt McCallany—who put themselves through extreme situations. Waugh’s vision suggests that in a world of despair, sometimes the only inspiration to be found is in characters who try to make the best of a devastatingly broken situation.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Prison Trilogy: This is director Ric Roman Waugh's third film exploring the prison system, following Felon (2008) and Snitch (2013).
• Deep Research: Waugh spent two years researching California's prison gangs and even went undercover as a volunteer parole officer to ensure the dialogue and racial politics were authentic.
• Transformation: Nikolaj Coster-Waldau spent hours in makeup daily for his extensive body tattoos, which were designed to tell his character’s specific history within the gang hierarchy.

✅ Pros

• Transformative, powerhouse performance by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau.
• Unflinching, authentic look at prison gang culture.
• Exceptional supporting work from Jon Bernthal and Holt McCallany.

❌ Cons

• Relentlessly bleak and potentially soul-crushing for some.
• Complete lack of hope or humor makes for a very heavy watch.

🏆 Final Verdict

A masterpiece of despair. If you are in the mood for something disturbing and despairing, Shot Caller is a top-tier choice. Just don't expect a fairy tale ending.

View original review on Letterboxd

Safe Haven

 

Safe Haven (2013)

A Coastal Romance Hijacked by Thriller Tropes

★★½☆☆

A sappy Nicholas Sparks adaptation elevated by a capable directorial hand, but hampered by a jarring tonal shift.

Directed by Lasse Hallström, Safe Haven is a watchable romance that benefits from the charismatic presence of its attractive leads, Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough. The film excels early on as it explores a charming, Norman Rockwell-esque small seaside town. However, the story eventually takes an unexpected and unwarranted turn into suspense territory. It is a shame that the narrative lacks the confidence to stay the course with its likable characters rebuilding their lives, instead opting for a B-plot that feels like a misplaced knock-off of Sleeping with the Enemy.

"The thriller aspect and b-plot turns the film into an ugly Sleeping with the Enemy knock-off that just feels out-of-place. It's not thrilling or suspenseful, just annoying as we yearn for the simplicity of the first two acts."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Lasse Hallström
• Starring: Julianne Hough, Josh Duhamel
• Supporting: Cobie Smulders, David Lyons
• Source Material: Nicholas Sparks (Novel)

The Vision

Hallström brings his signature warmth to the production, making the coastal setting feel like a genuine character in itself. While the film attempts to add depth by introducing a secondary storyline to avoid being "too uncomplicated," the execution falters. The transition from a gentle romance to an intense thriller is jarring, distracting from the earnest connection between the leads. Rather than enhancing the stakes, the "thriller" elements serve as an unnecessary distraction from the film's initial, more effective simplicity.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Southport Sights: The film was shot on location in Southport, North Carolina, a town that has served as the backdrop for several other Nicholas Sparks adaptations.
• Hallström’s History: This was director Lasse Hallström's second Sparks adaptation, following the successful Dear John (2010).
• That "Twist": The film's supernatural-leaning ending (a staple of the novel) was highly divisive among critics, with many feeling it clashed with the grounded realism of the earlier acts.

✅ Pros

• Charismatic and attractive lead performances.
• Beautifully captured, charming small-town setting.
• Capable direction that makes the first two acts very watchable.

❌ Cons

• Jarring and unwarranted turn into suspense thriller territory.
• Feels like an uninspired knock-off of better "woman on the run" films.
• Secondary storyline lacks genuine thrills or suspense.

🏆 Final Verdict

A decent coastal romance that loses its way when it tries to become a thriller. Safe Haven is best enjoyed for its visual charm and lead chemistry, even if the plot eventually spins out into the annoying.

View original review on Letterboxd

You People

 

You People (2023)

Cringe Satire That Plays It a Bit Too Safe

★★½☆☆

A lightly amusing comedy that coasts on the likability of its legendary cast but misses the big laughs.

Directed by Kenya Barris, You People attempts to navigate the awkward waters of modern cultural clashes through a lens of cringe satire. Featuring an powerhouse ensemble of comedy legends like Eddie Murphy, Jonah Hill, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, the film manages to be lightly amusing. However, it ultimately suffers from predictable conflicts and safe social commentary. While there are moments that will make the audience chuckle, the story lacks those two or three massive, memorable laughs that a cast of this caliber deserves.

"Disappointing considering the cast involved... but because of the likeability of the performers it's not a total loss. Maybe one day this ensemble will get another chance to share the screen together in material more worthy of their talents."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Kenya Barris
• Starring: Jonah Hill, Lauren London, Eddie Murphy
• Supporting: Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Nia Long, David Duchovny
• Writers: Jonah Hill & Kenya Barris

The Vision

Co-written by Jonah Hill and Kenya Barris, the film tries to modernize the Guess Who's Coming to Dinner trope for a streaming audience. The directorial vision leans heavily into the "cringe" factor, placing characters in increasingly uncomfortable social situations. While the intention is to spark conversation through humor, the safe approach to its themes prevents it from reaching the biting satirical heights of Barris' previous work like Black-ish. It’s a functional hangout movie that relies more on the charisma of its actors than the strength of its narrative teeth.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• The "CGI" Kiss: The film gained viral notoriety after it was revealed that the final wedding kiss between Jonah Hill and Lauren London was actually created using CGI due to COVID-19 safety protocols or scheduling.
• Directorial Debut: This marked Kenya Barris' debut as a feature film director, moving from his successful career as a television creator and showrunner.
• Improv Energy: Given the background of the cast, much of the dinner table banter was heavily improvised to capture a more authentic, albeit awkward, family dynamic.

✅ Pros

• Incredible cast of legendary comedic performers.
• Occasional moments of genuine, relatable "cringe" humor.
• High production value and a vibrant, modern aesthetic.

❌ Cons

• Predictable plot beats and relatively safe social commentary.
• Lacks the big "gut-busting" laughs expected from this ensemble.
• Can feel a bit overlong and repetitive in its awkwardness.

🏆 Final Verdict

Not a total loss thanks to the performers, but a bit of a letdown given the potential. You People is a decent weekend stream, but you'll likely find yourself wishing the script was as sharp as the actors' delivery.

View original review on Letterboxd

Johnny Guitar

 

Johnny Guitar (1954)

A Bold, Subversive, and Technicolor Masterpiece

★★★★☆

Watched 02 Jul 2024 — A distinctive Western that flips the genre on its head, placing power firmly in the hands of its formidable female leads.

Directed by Nicholas Ray, Johnny Guitar is a big, bold classic that manages to be both familiar and radically subversive. While it employs many traditional Western film tropes, the story takes the unique turn of centering on two gun-wielding female rivals. In a striking reversal of 1950s gender roles, the stereotypical "cowboy" characters serve as handsome side pieces, taking orders and remaining subservient to the women's demands. It is a film that expertly balances witty, quotable banter with exciting, popcorn-munching action.

"The plot features two strong, gun wielding female rivals who take center stage... The male stereotypical cowboys characters, meanwhile stand by them, looking like handsome side pieces."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Nicholas Ray
• Starring: Joan Crawfordn Sterling Hayden, Mercedes McCambridge
• Supporting: Scott Brady, Ward Bond, Ernest Borgnine
• Visuals: Trucolor (Republic Pictures)

The Vision

Nicholas Ray brings his trademark vivid style to the screen, utilizing lush landscapes and a heightened, almost surreal color palette. The vision is defined by "outsized, melodramatic performances," particularly the eerie, intimidating presence of Joan Crawford and the vengeful fire of Mercedes McCambridge. Ray creates an experience that functions as an enjoyable "shoot-em-up" on the surface, but invites serious scholarly assessment of its place in cinematic history as a work of art that challenged the very foundations of the Western genre.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• A Critical Darling: While largely misunderstood in the U.S. upon release, it was championed by French New Wave critics like [François Truffaut](https://www.criterion.com), who called it a "hallucinatory" Western.
• Real-Life Rivalry: The tension between [Joan Crawford and Mercedes McCambridge](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com) was legendary; Crawford reportedly threw McCambridge's costumes onto the highway in a fit of rage during filming.
• IndieWire's #1: As noted, [IndieWire recently ranked](https://www.indiewire.com) Johnny Guitar as the greatest Western of all time, surpassing traditional favorites like The Searchers.

✅ Pros

• Revolutionary focus on powerful female protagonists.
• Breathtaking, vivid visuals and Nicholas Ray's unique style.
• Strong, witty dialogue and memorable performances.

❌ Cons

• The heightened melodrama may be too "outsized" for some.
• Paces differently than a standard modern action Western.
• Subversive nature was once polarizing for traditional fans.

🏆 Final Verdict

Whether you see it as a fun shoot-em-up or a sophisticated piece of art, Johnny Guitar is an essential watch. It remains one of the most effective and memorable entries in the history of cinema.

View on Letterboxd

In A Violent Nature

In a Violent Nature (2024)

A Victim of Viral Hype and Slow-Motion Slasher Tropes

★★☆☆☆

An ambitious "ambient slasher" that struggles to move past its own hype and pedestrian pacing.

Directed by Chris Nash, In a Violent Nature is a textbook example of a film being crushed by the weight of its own viral momentum. Marketed as a transcendent horror experience following successful festival runs, the reality is far more humble: it is a low-budget, B-movie slasher with a clever perspective twist. Heavily influenced by the "over-the-shoulder" camera work of modern video games, the film attempts to subvert the genre by following the killer instead of the victims. However, once the initial thrill of this aesthetic choice fades, the audience is left with a film that spends the majority of its runtime simply walking through the woods.

"The juxtaposition between peaceful serene nature and horrific violence is poetic... but after awhile becomes painfully pretentious. I envy the new viewers who years from now will come to the film with no expectations."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director/Writer: Chris Nash
• Starring: Ry Barrett (Johnny), Andrea Pavlovic
• Cinematography: Pierce Derks (The "Follow" Cam)
• Vibe: Ambient / Experimental Horror

The Vision

Nash's vision attempts to strip away the score and fast-paced editing of the 1980s slasher era, replacing it with a meditative, almost nature-documentary feel. While critics found this "slow cinema" approach refreshing, many general viewers felt the lack of a "fast travel" option turned the experience into an endurance test. The film's much-discussed "unique kill" provides a moment of morbidly creative fun, and the final monologue offers a poignant meditation on surviving trauma, but these moments of brilliance are frequently buried under the film's own pretension.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Aspect Ratio: The film was shot in a 4:3 Academy ratio, intended to frame the killer more like a dominant force of nature while restricting the viewer's peripheral vision.
• No Score: There is virtually no musical score in the film; the soundscape relies entirely on the ambient noises of the Ontario wilderness to build tension.
• The Yoga Kill: The special effects team spent weeks developing the mechanics for the film's "centerpiece" kill—which has already been hailed as one of the most creative in slasher history.

✅ Pros

• A bold, unique twist on the traditional slasher perspective.
• One incredibly creative and morbidly memorable centerpiece kill.
• Impressive use of ambient sound and serene nature visuals.

❌ Cons

• Excessive, repetitive sequences of just walking through the forest.
• The critical hype creates a massive gap for audience expectations.
• Pacing that borders on the painfully pretentious.

🏆 Final Verdict

Stripped of the fanfare, it’s a "pretty cool" Friday the 13th knock-off with an experimental edge. Catch it on a late night with zero expectations and you might find it to be a worthwhile, albeit slow, diversion.

View original review on Letterboxd

Argylle

 

Argylle (2024)

An Ambitious Spy Parody Tangled in Its Own Cleverness

★★½☆☆

A charismatic lead duo trapped in a narrative that sacrifices logic for unearned invention.

Directed by Matthew Vaughn, Argylle is an ambitious tribute to and parody of the spy genre. While it features enough twists, turns, and chases to fill two movies, it ultimately struggles with its own complexity. The film frequently disrupts its own tension with extensive exposition, requiring lengthy flashbacks and monologues to explain the plot's many layers. While Bryce Dallas Howard and Sam Rockwell make for a charismatic twosome, the movie often trades realism for "cleverness" to a fault.

"The ensemble all seem to be winking at the audience, acknowledging the irony of it all and unabashedly sharing how fun this all is for them. It's just a shame that the filmmakers couldn't find that gear and tone to make it all truly special and memorable."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Matthew Vaughn
• Starring: Bryce Dallas Howard, Sam Rockwell, Henry Cavill
• Supporting: Bryan Cranston, Catherine O'Hara, Dua Lipa, John Cena
• Cinematography: George Richmond

The Vision

Matthew Vaughn attempts to recapture the stylized energy of his Kingsman franchise, leaning heavily into a meta-narrative about authorship and reality. The film is undeniably beautiful, showcasing creative action set pieces and impressive execution across various international locales. However, the vision is hampered by a PG-13 tone and an increasingly off-the-wall, absurd third act that pushes the parody into territory so far-fetched it loses its narrative anchor.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• The Elly Conway Mystery: Before release, a viral theory suggested that the real-life "Elly Conway" (the fictional author in the film) was actually Taylor Swift, a rumor the director eventually debunked.
• The Cat’s Pedigree: Alfie the cat is actually played by Chip, the real-life pet of director Matthew Vaughn and supermodel Claudia Schiffer.
• Kingsman Connection: Vaughn has hinted in interviews that Argylle exists within a shared universe that may eventually cross over with his Kingsman series.

✅ Pros

• Charismatic and engaging chemistry between Howard and Rockwell.
• Creative action sequences and beautiful global locales.
• Impressive technical execution and high production value.

❌ Cons

• Over-reliance on exposition and lengthy, disruptive flashbacks.
• An increasingly absurd third act that sacrifices narrative logic.
• Winking performances that can feel "too on the nose."

🏆 Final Verdict

Entertaining at a basic level, but ultimately a missed opportunity. Argylle is a flashy, fun diversion that unfortunately outsmarts itself before it can become a genre classic.

View original review on Letterboxd

Atlas

 

Atlas (2024)

A Painfully Conventional Ride Through Sci-Fi Tropes

★★☆☆☆

A competent but derivative AI thriller that leans heavily on its star power and CGI budget.

Directed by Brad Peyton, Atlas is a competent, but painfully conventional science fiction and action feature. With standard, stereotypical characters and a plot obviously inspired by Blade Runner, Terminator, and Pacific Rim, the film struggles to carve out its own identity. On the plus side, the movie boasts some strong special effects and impressive production design for a straight-to-streaming title. Jennifer Lopez puts up a game effort, even if the material feels like a collection of ideas we've seen a half-dozen times before.

"Lopez has reached that level of fame where she can only be seen as herself despite her best intentions. In her defense, it's hard to picture this film being greenlit without her, considering how mediocre the material is."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Brad Peyton
• Starring: Jennifer Lopez, Simu Liu, Sterling K. Brown
• Voice Cast: Gregory James Cohan (Smith)
• Platform: Netflix

The Vision

Brad Peyton attempts to create a high-stakes "man vs. machine" odyssey, but the vision often gets lost in the generic beats of the script. Jennifer Lopez is undeniably watchable as she navigates the film, but she feels miscast as a brilliant but traumatized data analyst—a role that demands a level of character depth the superstar's massive public persona tends to overshadow. The film's strength lies in its visuals, which provide enough "eye candy" to keep the average viewer engaged through the predictably listless narrative.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• AI Resonance: The film's release coincided with a global surge in AI discourse, though critics noted that the screenplay actually predates the current ChatGPT era by several years.
• Physical Production: To help Lopez react to her robotic companion, the production used a real voice actor on set rather than just recording the lines in post-production.
• Netflix Numbers: Despite mixed critical reviews, Atlas debuted at #1 in over 90 countries on Netflix, proving Lopez's enduring global "greenlight" power.

✅ Pros

• Strong special effects and high-quality production design.
• Jennifer Lopez is a magnetic, pleasantly watchable presence.
• Functional action sequences for fans of the "mech" subgenre.

❌ Cons

• Derivative plot that feels like a collage of better sci-fi films.
• Jennifer Lopez feels miscast as a "traumatized analyst."
• Stereotypical characters and uninspired dialogue.

🏆 Final Verdict

A "comfort food" sci-fi flick that won't win any awards for originality. Atlas is a glossy, mid-tier spectacle that serves its purpose as a weekend stream but disappears from memory the moment the credits roll.

View original review on Letterboxd

Hit Man

 

Hit Man (2023)

A Rom-Com with a Wicked, Noir-Stained Twist

★★★☆☆

A charming fairy tale built on a dark foundation, confirmed by the electric charisma of its leads.

Directed by Richard Linklater, Hit Man overcomes suspense and noir film stereotypes by inserting much-needed, unexpected black comedy into the proceedings. While the script might read like a silly Lifetime thriller on the surface, Linklater’s steady comedic hand transforms this morbid story into something genuinely charming. The film hinges on the affable charisma of Glen Powell and Adria Arjona, an attractive and likeable couple that keeps the audience rooting for them even as the absurdity peaks in the third act.

"Linkletter's steady comedic hand transforms the morbid, dark story into something resembling a charming fairy tale. It all shouldn't really work."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Richard Linklater
• Starring: Glen Powell, Adria Arjona
• Writers: Richard Linklater & Glen Powell
• Based on: Skip Hollandsworth (Texas Monthly Article)

The Vision

Richard Linklater’s vision leans into the philosophical nature of identity, disguised as a breezy rom-com. By utilizing Glen Powell’s range through a series of "hit man" personas, the film explores how we perform ourselves for others. It manages to feel like a "star-making" turn for both leads, despite them both already being on strong trajectories toward superstardom. The direction ensures the film remains grounded in character even when the plot dips into traditional noir territory.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• True Story Roots: The film is loosely based on the real-life story of Gary Johnson, a staff investigator for the Harris County D.A.'s office who actually posed as a hitman over 60 times.
• Writing Duo: Glen Powell didn't just star; he co-wrote the screenplay with Linklater after discovering the original 2001 article in Texas Monthly.
• Persona Prep: Powell worked closely with the hair and makeup departments to create distinct looks for his various aliases, ranging from "American Psycho" chic to backwoods grit.

✅ Pros

• Electric chemistry between Glen Powell and Adria Arjona.
• Masterful tonal balance between black comedy and romance.
• Richard Linklater’s character-first directorial style.

❌ Cons

• Plot absurdity in the third act may stretch believability for some.
• On-paper premise can feel a bit like a generic thriller tropes.

🏆 Final Verdict

A confirmed success for its leads and a delightful genre-bender. Hit Man is proof that with the right talent and a steady hand, even the darkest premises can feel like magic.

View original review on Letterboxd

Remembering Gene Wilder

 

Remembering Gene Wilder (2023)

A Breezy, Background-Ready Highlight Reel

★★☆☆☆

A safe, non-controversial look at a comedy legend that serves better as a "time killer" than a definitive biography.

Directed by Ron Frank, Remembering Gene Wilder functions primarily as a highlight reel of the artist's iconic works. While it lightheartedly touches on his most famous films through the eyes of his colleagues, it lacks the depth one might expect for a talent of Wilder's magnitude. Most effective is the incorporation of narration from his own audiobook autobiography, but the film ultimately fails to offer anything groundbreaking or particularly insightful about his complex personal life or artistic process.

"Wilder's works merit a more extensive examination, as well as his interesting personal life. [It is] the kind of documentary that Netflix is unfortunately becoming famous for: time killers to put on in the background as one goes about their chores."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Ron Frank
• Starring: Gene Wilder (Archival), Mel Brooks, Alan Alda
• Supporting: Carol Kane, Harry Connick Jr., Karen Wilder
• Narration: Gene Wilder (via "Kiss Me Like a Stranger")

The Vision

The documentary aims to be a celebratory, nostalgic trip down memory lane rather than a deep investigative dive. While it successfully captures the "charitable" side of Wilder's legacy, the directorial vision is safe and non-confrontational. It relies heavily on familiar anecdotes and existing footage, missing the gear to make it truly special. It settles into the role of comfortable streaming content—perfect for passive consumption while tending to daily tasks, but leaving dedicated fans yearning for a more extensive examination.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Self-Told Story: The use of Wilder’s own voice from his 2005 memoir, Kiss Me Like a Stranger, allows the actor to essentially narrate his own life story from beyond the grave.
• Blooper Gold: Many viewers consider the rare, extended blooper reel from Young Frankenstein to be the absolute highlight of the documentary’s archival footage.
• Brooks' Blessing: Longtime collaborator Mel Brooks provided extensive new interview footage, offering a firsthand look at the chemistry that defined 1970s comedy.

✅ Pros

• Touchingly incorporates Gene Wilder’s own narration.
• Excellent archival bloopers, especially from Young Frankenstein.
• Breezy and easy to watch for casual fans.

❌ Cons

• Lacks deep insight or groundbreaking new information.
• Feels like surface-level "background" content.
• Avoids more complex or difficult aspects of Wilder’s life.

🏆 Final Verdict

A modest tribute that functions well as a "Greatest Hits" package. If you’re looking for a profound exploration of Wilder’s genius, you might be disappointed, but it’s a pleasant enough companion for a rainy afternoon.

View original review on Letterboxd

Brats

 

BRATS (2024)

Unpacking the Stigma of the "Brat Pack" Moniker

★★☆☆☆

An uneven examination that lightly scratches the surface of 80s stardom without delivering deep insight.

Directed by Andrew McCarthy, BRATS is an uneven examination of the group of actors famously labeled "The Brat Pack" by a notorious 1985 New York Magazine article. McCarthy attempts to unpack the lasting effects and stigma of being lumped into this non-existent social peer group. While he visits icons like Emilio Estevez, Demi Moore, and Rob Lowe, the exploration often feels slightly pretentious or self-pitying. It is a justifiable exercise given the cultural weight of films like The Breakfast Club and St. Elmo's Fire, but it lacks the meaningful depth a different directorial approach might have uncovered.

"The real lost opportunity is missing out on seeing a group reunion of the performers all together... in the small, solo settings the examination comes off at best, slightly pretentious and at worst, self-pitying."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Andrew McCarthy
• Featuring: Emilio Estevez, Demi Moore, Rob Lowe, Ally Sheedy
• Special Appearance: David Blum (Writer of the original article)
• Platform: Hulu

The Vision

Andrew McCarthy’s vision is deeply personal, framed as a journey to reconcile with his own past. He focuses on the "trauma" of the label—being belittled or losing out on prestigious roles—but the film eventually admits the moniker has evolved into a badge of merit. Unfortunately, by keeping the interviews to intimate, one-on-one settings, the film misses the electric potential of a group dynamic. It treats these 1980s touchstones as important time capsules, yet fails to provide an insightful or particularly entertaining narrative for the very generation that grew up with them.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• The Missing Members: Notably absent from the new interviews are Molly Ringwald and Judd Nelson, whose lack of participation highlights the lingering divisiveness of the "Brat Pack" label.
• The Original Sin: The documentary features a face-to-face meeting between McCarthy and David Blum, the journalist who coined the term, marking their first conversation in nearly 40 years.
• Hulu Hit: Despite critical mixed reviews, the documentary became a massive viewership success, proving the enduring allure of John Hughes-era nostalgia.

✅ Pros

• Fascinating to see 80s icons reflecting on their youth.
• Highlights the cultural importance of 1980s youth time capsules.
• The confrontation with the original article's author is a highlight.

❌ Cons

• Missing the "big win" of a full cast reunion.
• Can feel self-pitying given the actual advantages of their fame.
• Surface-level analysis that lacks genuine industry insight.

🏆 Final Verdict

A nostalgic but ultimately shallow walk down memory lane. BRATS is worth a watch for the sheer 80s pedigree, but it leaves you wishing for a more meaningful examination of its famous subjects.

View original review on Letterboxd

The First Omen

 

The First Omen (2024)

A Vital, Visceral Addition to the Catholic Horror Canon

★★★☆☆

Unsettling and disturbing, this prequel fulfills the creepy, suspenseful promise of the originals while pushing into terrifying new territory.

Directed by Arkasha Stevenson, The First Omen is a surprisingly bold and vital addition to the franchise. Featuring a brave, unhinged performance by Nell Tiger Free, the film is drenched in dread and Catholic nightmare horror. While there is plenty of gore and body horror to satisfy genre fans, the most horrifying aspect is the believable hubris of the evil sect portrayed within the institution. The filmmakers make a terrifyingly grounded case for why such a scenario could be justifiable within their own twisted logic.

"We'd like to believe the real institution wouldn't have a rogue offshoot trying to bring on the apocalypse... But the filmmakers make a great case, as well as Roman Catholic history, why this terrifying scenario would not just be possible, but justifiable."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Arkasha Stevenson
• Starring: Nell Tiger Free, Bill Nighy, Sônia Braga
• Supporting: Ralph Ineson, Charles Dance
• Cinematography: Aaron Morton

The Vision

Arkasha Stevenson brings a sophisticated, European-horror sensibility to this prequel, moving away from standard jump scares toward a slow-building atmospheric rot. The vision centers on the loss of bodily autonomy and the terrifying length an institution will go to maintain its power. By grounding the supernatural threat in real historical anxieties regarding the Church in the 1970s, Stevenson elevates the material from a simple franchise tie-in to a standalone work of "prestige" horror.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• The "Possession" Homage: Nell Tiger Free's intense physical performance in a hallway sequence was a direct, intentional homage to Isabelle Adjani’s iconic breakdown in the 1981 film Possession.
• Rating Battle: The film reportedly had to go through several cuts to avoid an NC-17 rating due to its graphic "birthing" and body horror sequences.
• Soundtrack DNA: The score incorporates motifs from Jerry Goldsmith’s original Oscar-winning The Omen score, specifically "Ave Satani," to bridge the gap between the two eras.

✅ Pros

• Powerhouse, transformative lead performance by Nell Tiger Free.
• Exceptional production design and unsettling atmosphere.
• Creative and genuinely disturbing body horror sequences.

❌ Cons

• Certain plot beats rely heavily on franchise familiarity.
• Extremely bleak and potentially upsetting for some viewers.

🏆 Final Verdict

A rare prequel that actually justifies its own existence. The First Omen is a haunting, well-crafted nightmare that proves there is still plenty of life (and death) left in this classic franchise.

View original review on Letterboxd