Category: 2007

I had never heard of this movie when I started watching but I was pleasantly surprised. It is based on true accounts documented in diaries and published as a book.

I generally have a grudge towards traditional book movies because they try to convert a 20-hour book into a 90-minute movie; This in most cases turns out as a mess. This movie introduces 30 characters hand in hand with our main protagonist and expects us to feel for each of them. It succeeds mostly by utilising its plot to its advantage by profiling each character as part of a racial group in combat with each of the other groups. We don’t have any stake in which demographic or racial group wins this battle but rather have an interest in resolution. Other characteristics that bring me back to the book aspect of this film is the excessive use of inner dialogue rather than visual storytelling; There are so many other ways in which you can tell me a character is angry without me hearing their inner dialogue – lazy storytelling.

I find ‘based on true events’ movies to be extremely interesting but in most cases, it’s rather an emphasis on ‘based on’ rather than ‘true’. In all cases, the director has liberty in the storytelling and representation of the events but I prefer everything to be as raw as possible. This movie is a good middle starting and provides a narrative account of what I assume are the actual diary entries combined with a visual representation of the actual accounts. I would probably not watch it again, but I recommend it to someone looking for an emotional movie based on truth.

8/10

This film is fucking incredible. It knows exactly what it wants to be and follows through with every insane idea. Will Ferrell is of course as ridiculous as always but because of the tone of the film, it fits in perfectly. He and his co-stars bring light and spectacularity to every glorious scene and keep an uplifting mood throughout the film.

I will admit that the movie is annoying, which should be pretty obvious from the title itself; But it is so self-conscious in a refreshing way, with a director that knows where he is going with the story. It keeps a smile on my face when a film that is this over the top gives all it has got and wants to be a well-rounded film whilst doing it.

7/10

This must have been an alright children’s book, but as a film, it really falls short. Every scene feels like a gag that has no meaning for the plot, yet seem like they belong. I will point out that the film is in the same family as The The Cat in the Hat (2003), Which too is a fairly idiotic film that gets annoying after a short while. 

The actors are talented and their personalities win this movie back just a little bit, but after a while they get annoying too. It still isn’t as bod as the before mentioned film, but gets really close at times.

5/10

For what this movie is I actually have enjoyed it. It is full blown Eddie Murphy stupidity but with some pretty good acting and a lot of well-executed humour. From start till end the plot takes us on a journey from childhood to a full grown adult making some of the biggest desitions of his life.

This film is barely a classic and it will not be shown on any wall of fame, but I will give him props for some of the memorable oneliners and scenes that are imposile to get out of my head, for better or for worse.

6/10

This one is just as bad as the other three films in the Species series. There is a lot more suspense in this film, mostly because of the clear red thread that drags the plot. The main characters are in focus and there is little nonsense to deviate from the main story.

The acting is pretty bad, which is a common trait for the series, and that might also be what makes it authentic as a Species film.

5/10

This film again follows the same story as the first two, yet there have been a few changes. This one does not just have another plot, because here the characters are less isolated and more stranded in their environment.
The first two films focus on the virus itself and its effects in a realistic maner – not saying any of it is realistic at all – but this one is a little more out there. Kinetic powers is the least of the stuff used here. It is not to say the film is bad, but the direction definitely changed for better or for worse.
6/10

For me this is clearly the best of the 3 films. This one takes itself more serious in general and really turn the series up a notch. The story is a little darker where people’s lifes are on stake.

the two main characters have both grown up and know each other at this point. In comparison to the other films this one keeps you invested in the characters and you really get to feel and care for them.

There are scenes in the film that are so damn over the top – just like the first scene – but they fit in and make it feel like a real Rush Hour film.

7/10

A magical and enchanting story that feels original. It has a steady pace, a moderate amount of narration, and the character arc of the main character is significant for the story and the adventure that he endures. Therefor the film seems relevant and is actually really good.

Every character has some quirks and fitness to them, which makes this movie feel authentic in its own right. The cast is brilliant, throwing stars like Robert De Niro and Claire Danes into the universe, with roles that seem tailor made for them.

I recommend everyone who enjoys fantasy to watch this film. It shows what really can be done in a contained universe with only about 120 minuts to work with. My best description of it is the word quirky, though still satisfyingly predictable.

8/10

This is a very short and elegant story about passion, nothing more than that. In the fact that it is a really beautifully presented and executed story about passion makes it a joy to watch. It is well animated in good Disney fashion and every character is presented and delivered in the best way possible.

I saw this film many years ago and I remember some of the feelings in my stomach that really touched me. On this second watch I didn’t feel them at the same level. Many films that are about aspirations make me cry or give me butterflies, but this didn’t. Maybe because of the lack of complexity. Anyone can cook… Alright? There is not much more than that. It’s an inspirational story which, again, is very well executed. The American dream: you can be anything kid. Give me a break…

6/10