Netflix’ Enola Holmes (***) is a humble vanity project
The point to this film, and there is one, is that we get to see a young actress on the way to her prime enjoying herself.
Another Look: American Gangster Unrated (****) feels right
If that sounds like too much to cover in a movie, it’s not. The three hours fly by and justice is served.
Unhinged (***) is not quite falling down
If you want to see a film on par with The Hitcher, but well under the capability of Michael Douglas in Falling Down, you could do worse. I think I will watch Falling Down again.
The New Mutants (**1/2) is an old film by now
As the film fades from memory, The New Mutants will be remembered as not much more than a footnote for a franchise that flew atop of the cinematic world for a brief time.
Mulan (****1/2) almost escapes the Disney sheen
This is not a perfect film, but it’s a damn entertaining one. Mulan gives as forceful a message for equality as one can give without pandering whatsoever.
Tenet (****1/2) Explores time in a bottle
There is a lot of sequel potential here, but only if Nolan continues himself. It’s the kind of plot device that could go straight to hell if not handled right.
The Man From Nowhere (*****) Supernova
If you see only one more action film, let this be it.
Criterion: Zatoichi Meets Yojimbo (***): Feels like number 20
It’s not a disappointing film. It’s just not memorable either.
Criterion: Samurai Rebellion (****1/2): Receive the wife, free the wife
For those worried that Mifune’s film quality might recede without his great collaborator, this is exhibit D (The Samurai Trilogy being A, B and C) that his instincts were good.
Criterion: The Sword of Doom (***) doesn’t land flush
A weak third act tears down the momentum of what could be a classic film.
Netflix’ The Old Guard (***1/2) is just beginning
“There is one bad guy to put up a fight, and he is saved for the right person. You’ll know it when you see it. And you should see it. If for no other reason than to get ready for part two, which should be pretty good.”
Army of Darkness (****) – Now that’s Groovy
There is nothing here that qualifies as perfect in the film. In truth, this is what makes it better.
Guns Akimbo (*) is SJW disguised as comedy
For me, I will stick with Running Man. It’s dumb too. Just not as preachy. And I will hold out for filmmakers who are actually bold, and not just gross and silly.
Criterion: Yojimbo and Sanjuro – The Masters at play (****1/2)
It’s a pleasant consequence of having the skill to turn above average into the unforgettable. These films should not be important bedrock films. Yet here they are, standing head and shoulders above, almost 60 years later.
Timeline (*) is out of sync
This is what happens when one takes B-Level material by a good writer with a director who is kind of through with the hassle of being a director.
Forgotten Gem: Slap Shot (*****) is as good as it gets
The real surprise and the definite treat of the film are the Hansons. They have such an innocence and exuberance for the game of hockey, they carry whatever portion of the film that is not being driven by Newman.
