Reviews

Geostorm (2017)
CCalvin_ChanJanuary 4, 2025
The screenplay ambitiously crammed every possible disaster into a single film, aiming for grandeur. Unfortunately, the limited budget meant most of the spectacle was already shown in the trailer. The disaster scenes were too brief to leave a lasting impression, and the slow-paced beginning felt unnecessary, especially with an overemphasis on the father-daughter subplot.
The Lion King (1994)
AAmritJanuary 4, 2025
The Lion King is a visually astonishing reimagining into live-action of this favourite classic animation. Awesome CGI decorates the African savanna in great detail. Donald Glover as Simba and Beyoncé as Nala do very well in their acting, while the soundtrack, which includes such hits as "Circle of Life" and "Hakuna Matata," is still unforgettable. The realistic animation doesn't always express the emotional level of the original, but in any case, it captures the heart of the story. Beautiful, nostalgic-it will be dear to old and new fans alike.
Beauty and the Beast (1991)
AAmritJanuary 4, 2025
Beauty and the Beast is a visually captivating and heartwarming remake of the classic. Emma Watson is perfect as Belle, and Dan Stevens brings depth to the Beast. The stunning visuals, memorable songs, and strong performances make it a delightful experience. While some moments feel a bit extended, the film successfully honors the original while adding a fresh touch, making it a must-see for fans and newcomers alike.
The Prince of Egypt (1998)
BbesszechariahJanuary 4, 2025
The visual and musical achievements of this film remain unparalleled, even by today’s standards. Its seamless synchronization of music with character actions and emotions elevates it to the realm of fine art. While I’m not a fan of its religious undertones, it’s hard to deny the film’s brilliance as a work of cinematic art.
My Little Pony: Equestria Girls - Legend of Everfree (2016)
EemilioJanuary 4, 2025
Whenever life’s pressures become overwhelming, I find solace in revisiting this film. Watching the ponies encourage and forgive one another in the face of adversity rekindles a sense of innocence and joy. It’s a gentle reminder that “friendship is magic,” even in the toughest times.
The Deer Hunter (1978)
NNate_FlynnJanuary 4, 2025
Structured in three acts—pre-war, wartime, and post-war—the narrative dedicates ample time to each phase. By the end, the contrast between the idyllic pre-war scenes and the devastating aftermath of war is profoundly striking, laying bare the immense trauma inflicted on ordinary lives.
The Goonies (1985)
AAshlee_SellersJanuary 4, 2025
Packed with impressive sets and tightly choreographed action, "The Goonies" is a lively family film that boasts a cast of talented young actors, including Sean Astin. Its clever plot and thrilling sequences remain exciting even today, offering moments of genuine tension.
Escape from the Trilateral Slopes (2024)
SseamouseJanuary 3, 2025
Many people said that the second half was unbearable, but I felt that it got rid of the farce-like TV drama style in the beginning, and the rhythm slowed down in the latter part, which felt a bit like a movie or Netflix "Narcos". Even the silly and innocent Shen Xing, who was annoying when I saw him, gradually felt right, from the credibility, sense of fate and Guo Qilin's originally poor performance, everything became right.
Brother Bear 2 (2006)
TthinkmillerJanuary 3, 2025
Like its predecessor, the story is formulaic, with every plot development easily anticipated. The ending mirrors the first film, emphasizing harmony with nature but lacking the depth of exploring empathy. It focuses more on love and self-discovery, as the female lead’s journey is ultimately about finding herself.
We Can Be Heroes (2020)
TthinkmillerJanuary 3, 2025
While juvenile, the film is not without charm. Its unpolished aesthetics are balanced by a sincere, whimsical tone. Despite some cringeworthy moments, it remains lighthearted and enjoyable. The effects are basic, but the playful fight scenes are endearing. It reminds viewers that children are the future and encourages optimism and resilience.
Peppermint (2018)
TthinkmillerJanuary 3, 2025
A female revenge story. The transformation of a housewife into a skilled assassin over five years is glossed over, which is a shame, but the film’s brisk pacing makes this omission forgivable. The lead delivers a strong performance, though more attention to detail could have elevated the film. Despite its flaws, it’s an entertaining watch.
The Hunt (2020)
TthinkmillerJanuary 3, 2025
Clocking in at under 90 minutes, the film wastes no time, with every shot and line of dialogue serving a purpose. It feels like a video game, with characters entering a map, looting gear, and progressing through the plot. Despite its brevity, it vividly portrays the hypocrisy, arrogance, and self-righteousness of the elite class.
Project Power (2020)
TthinkmillerJanuary 3, 2025
The film uses superpowers to metaphorically address America’s drug problem—a flashy concept with conflicting themes. It criticizes the effects of these pills, yet the protagonist ultimately relies on them to activate his powers and defeat the villain. The fight scenes and action sequences are decent, the animal-based powers are intriguing, and the visual effects are commendable.
War Dogs (2016)
TthinkmillerJanuary 3, 2025
The trailer is misleading; this isn’t a comedy but a fact-based drama. The director struggles to manage the story’s pacing and tone, leaving the narrative muddled. His attempt at a stylized approach falls flat, perhaps due to studio interference or poor editing choices. While the story itself is interesting, the characters lack empathy, making it hard to connect with them.
Annabelle (2014)
TthinkmillerJanuary 3, 2025
The director’s background as a cinematographer shines through in this movie, with immersive visuals, but the script is shockingly poor. The plot relies too heavily on jump scares, the ghostly appearances feel nonsensical, and their motivations for haunting the family are flimsy. There’s minimal confrontation between humans and spirits, and the scares fall far short of James Wan’s standards, while the climax feels inexplicably chaotic.
The November Man (2014)
TthinkmillerJanuary 3, 2025
This is a solid effort for a commercial film. The director, however, seems somewhat restrained; there were moments that could have been more daring, like adding suspenseful twists. The story structure and screenplay are sound, with natural emotional changes and well-executed, seamless plot twists.
Peter Pan (2003)
TthinkmillerJanuary 3, 2025
I’ve always loved the magic of Peter Pan. Wendy’s kiss for Peter is irresistibly romantic, though I still wonder why she chose to grow up. Perhaps it was her courage to embrace adult responsibilities. As for me, I’d rather escape to Neverland with Peter, finding joy in an endless dream.
Pixels (2015)
TthinkmillerJanuary 3, 2025
The plot is so thin you could skip to the final three minutes and not miss much. The dialogue is uninspired, and the story attempts to cloak a nostalgic message about childhood dreams in a video-game theme. Unfortunately, even Chris Columbus couldn’t save this poorly written film, whose only redeeming quality is its tribute to classic games.
Dumb and Dumber (1994)
TthinkmillerJanuary 3, 2025
The script feels uninspired, relying on coincidences and misunderstandings to generate lowbrow humor. The pacing is sluggish, but Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels inject life into the movie with their exaggerated performances, elevating an otherwise bland storyline.
Riddick (2013)
TthinkmillerJanuary 3, 2025
I found this film oddly compelling. Watching Riddick endure the brutal conditions of an unforgiving planet had me questioning why he didn’t just give up. Yet, his refusal to surrender—even when gravely injured and cornered by monstrous creatures—was profoundly moving. Perhaps that resilience is the life lesson I need: to keep fighting on no matter what.