Category: Mini Review
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Mini Review: Obsession
Out of all the big horror flicks this year, I think Obsession is arguably the most horrific, & manages to hold the tension all the way to the very end. Inde Navarrette is indeed a breakout, totally owning every scene. Huge respect to the team, but I never want to watch it again.
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Mini Review: Akashi
There’s an artistic style in Akashi that is refreshing, with the film unfolding like a series of beautifully composed tableaus. The film has a deliberately slow & methodical pace, but what unfolds is an interesting meditation on family, marriage and loss. Well worth a watch.
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Mini Review: Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Wow, Spider-Man: Brand New Day seriously leaps the MCU forward while still maintaining its focus on sad Peter, and for that the nerd in me is pleased & excited. And while there probably is a more streamlined version of this plot, what we get is yet another solid Spider-Man film. 4/5
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Mini Review: Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender
Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender shines in its stunning visuals, bringing incredible detail & artistry to its backgrounds & character design. It’s very much an Aang story, so those wanting more Team Avatar will be a bit disappointed. But maybe this is a blueprint for more to come?
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Mini Review: Minions & Monsters
Okay I’ll admit, the silly Citizen Kane reference in Minions & Monsters got me. And the fact that this movie has a Citizen Kane reference is crazy. While two-thirds of the movie are indeed a cute ode to cinema, the last third almost put me to sleep. But it’s Minions, so have fun!
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Mini Review: The Odyssey
The sheer scale of The Odyssey is truly befitting of its epic source material, & a sight to be hold on the biggest screen possible. And while it may not be the sleekest or most visually stunning, Nolan easily finds a way to make every minute of its runtime captivating & poignant.
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Mini Review: My Father’s Shadow
My Father’s Shadow feels like pure poetry in its depiction of two boys travelling to Lagos with their father. There’s a lyricism to how scenes & portraits are interwoven, & a gentleness to the narrative despite the turmoil of Nigeria in 1993. A great debut from Akinola Davies Jr.
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Mini Review: Enola Holmes 3
The novelty has very much warn off on Millie Bobby Brown’s Enola Holmes 3, which continues to bank on its quirky charm and fun characters. The story is serviceable, and the performances are apt. But there’s not much more I can say aside from “it’s fine”.
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Mini Review: Tow
Rose Byrne in #Tow certainly delivers a strong performance, while shining an important spotlight on homelessness & addiction. But between its underdeveloped side cast (filled with wasted talent), and a somewhat unearned third act, I can’t say it’s a strong recommendation from me.
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Mini Review: The Invite
Okay wow, I never thought I would say it, but Olivia Wilde, you can invite me over for awkward wine & cheese any time! The Invite, while so simple in its premise and staging, is absolutely electric, with a snappy script, smart direction, and incredible cast. Call me impressed!
Year in Cinema 