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Movie Review – Captive State

Movie Review - Captive StateCaptive State had a good idea of dropping the movie goer right into an alien invasion. The aliens have been in control of earth for years and are known as “legislators.” They control the law and humans.

Okay, great idea up to that point. It’s a dandy way to start a movie. I like the idea of seeing how the humans and aliens basically have to work together. That’s where the greatness ends. The mere idea of it. The execution was retched, absolutely discombobulated and confusing.

It’s really an hour and a half give or take of humans passing messages and traveling from one secret location to another secret location. I honestly didn’t even know the characters names until I got home and looked them up on IMDB.

One of my biggest gripes is John Goodman. I’ve loved that guy since the beginning of Roseanne. He is a staple in the strong male actors category. Did he have bills to pay? Why in the world did he take this role? The character was written so poorly that even the great Goodman couldn’t bring life to the role. Sad face.

The only reason I’m not giving this movie an F is because the sets were done really well. They immersed you into a bleak, poverty stricken world that oozed with desperation and hopelessness. Good job there.

Another positive note was that while doing my job I have to sit through the credits to tell you wonderful people if there is anything extra. Happily they were only four minutes long. I thought to myself, “Wow, those credits were really short. Woohoo for that!” Most movies run at least 7 minutes, sometimes longer. I figured out why as I was falling asleep last night trying to forget this movie. The credits are so short that no one wanted to take credit for this farce of a movie. I chuckled to myself as I fell into a peaceful sleep that luckily contained no part of this movie in my dreams.

Treat yourself to a wonderful movie and get out of the house for a while. You deserve it! I just wouldn’t pick this one.

Grade: D+

About The Peetimes: I only submitted 2 Peetimes due to the fact that this was a really hard movie to follow. I chose scenes that were fairly easy to summarize.

There are no extra scenes during, or after, the end credits of Captive State. (What we mean by Anything Extra.)

Rated (PG-13) for sci-fi violence and action, some sexual content, brief language and drug material
Genres: Sci-Fi, Thriller

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Movie Review – A Madea Family Funeral – A Fine Farewell to the Franchise

Movie Review - A Madea Family FuneralFittingly enough, A Madea Family Funeral is Tyler Perry’s last performance as this iconic, foul-mouthed, insanely funny character. I went into the theater with great anticipation of a stellar finale. Halfway into the movie, I’m wondering when he’ll pull out all the stops and give me some more funny stuff to laugh over. There were a few moments that met my expectations, but overall it didn’t deliver.

I was impressed at the amount of controversial topics he addressed. He showed us the fear the public has over police brutality, and let me add that was probably one of the funniest scenes. However, looking back at it, it was painfully true. Bad things are happening in America, and Perry wasn’t afraid to bring some of them up.

I’m going to miss Madea. She always said the things that my brain thinks but my mouth won’t allow out. I’m sad that I won’t be seeing her anymore, because inside me lives a little bit of Madea. She was a hero to all the folks out there too quiet to speak up for themselves. Long live Madea!!

In summary, yes, it was funny. No, it wasn’t as funny as I was expecting. The problem was, Tyler had set the bar so very high with his other movies. I’m still happy I saw it, but there was room for more shenanigans from our mischievous and brutal Madea.

Grade: B-

About The Peetimes: Both Peetimes will work well for you: they’re evenly spaced and plenty long for a quick exit to do what needs to be done.

There are extra scenes during, or after, the end credits of A Madea Family Funeral. (What we mean by Anything Extra.)

Rated (PG-13) for crude sexual content, language, and drug references throughout
Genres: Comedy

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Movie Review – The Prodigy – No Chemistry, No Creativity

Movie Review - The ProdigyThe Prodigy was really disappointing. I’ve seen better movies at Billy Bob’s Drive-In Theater.

This is another movie that did a wonderful job of making the trailer look too good to pass up. They got me hook, line and sinker. I was really excited waiting for the movie, then it started. Ten minutes into it, I was bored. I found myself wondering if I blew out the candles at home. So fast forward to the end of the movie, and I was really scared. I was really scared my house was burning to the ground due to candle negligence.

I didn’t see any chemistry between Taylor Schilling and Peter Mooney. None at all; if you’re going to be acting as husband and wife, you need to show us a little something. Schilling to me, came across as Piper from Orange Is The New Black. Same character — just better hair and makeup.

The one upside was Jackson Robert Scott. He played the little boy Miles. He did a really good job of being creepy as all get out. If that were my child, to the wolves with him!

The story has been done before; it’s very similar to Shocker. Don’t get me wrong —The Prodigy isn’t in the same league as Wes Craven’s thriller — but it’s in the same universe. I’m gonna wrap this up by recommending you wait for the DVD.

Grade: C-

About The Peetimes: The Prodigy is a very short movie — 87 minutes, if you exclude the credits. I decided to give you only 1 Peetime — the best one. The only other possible Peetime would have made you miss out on the build-up for the finale.

There are extra scenes during, or after, the end credits of The Prodigy. (What we mean by Anything Extra.)

Rated (R) for violence, disturbing and bloody images, a sexual reference and brief graphic nudity
Genres: Horror, Thriller

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Movie Review – Miss Bala – Surprisingly Pleasant and Fun

Movie Review - Miss BalaI was pleasantly surprised by Miss Bala. It kept me interested and wondering what was going to happen.

There were also some tense moments that had me on the edge of my seat. I didn’t see that coming. I was really dreading this movie, but had to eat my words when I walked out saying I really liked it.

I don’t think Miss Bala will win any awards, but it was a fun escape from reality for about two hours. I’ve never seen or heard of anyone that was in the cast, but they all did a really good job. There’s some definite eye candy to watch the whole time too.

If you want to have a fun date night movie, I think this flick will fit the bill.

Grade: B+

About The Peetimes: I submitted 2 Peetimes for you to use. Either one will work quite well. They are nicely spaced out and both were very easy to sum up.

There are no extra scenes during, or after, the end credits of Miss Bala. (What we mean by Anything Extra.)

Rated (PG-13) for sequences of gun violence, sexual and drug content, thematic material, and language
Genres: Action, Drama, Thriller

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Movie Review – The Upside

Movie Review - The UpsideThe Upside was a mixture of heart and humor. (Pun intended.) Kevin Hart and Bryan Cranston were superb together. The dynamics that developed between the two characters were so well acted that I didn’t want the movie to end. I just wanted to keep seeing these two guys growing and learning together.

The laughs don’t stop. I saw the show in a sold out theater and the crowd was loving it. I’m sure there were even more laughs than I heard, but the crowd was roaring in a few spots, making it hard to hear the following lines.

Humor: check!

It’s also touching. Both characters are working on their own personal demons from polar opposite positions. It’s all about how the two very different men help each other.

Touching: check!

I’m used to seeing Kevin Hart play in comedies that — let’s say — lack a certain depth, which is fine; he’s good at that. Hart shines in this movie in a way he never has before.

So yes, Kevin can pull off emotional and sincere characters too. He’s great at that. I want to see him push it even further and see what happens. I think we’d all be pleasantly surprised.

As for Bryan Cranston, he’s always amazing. His talent shined here, even with only being able to use his face for comedic purposes — he hit it out of the park.

I would recommend this movie to friends and family without hesitation. I read a few reviews on The Upside and saw some pretty nasty ones, which shocked me. I think my brain works on a different wavelength than those critics. I feel that if I laugh, don’t get bored, and walk away happy, then I’ll give it a great review!!

Grade: A+

About The Peetimes: It was extremely hard finding a few moments where I wasn’t laughing. I chose these 3 after throwing out 3 others, because I simply couldn’t make it through typing them without laughing hysterically.

There are no extra scenes during, or after, the end credits of The Upside. (What we mean by Anything Extra.)

Rated (PG-13) for suggestive content and drug use
Genres: Comedy, Drama

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Movie Review – Holmes & Watson

 

Movie Review - Holmes & WatsonHolmes and Watson was really disappointing. Being a huge fan of the Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly comedy duo, I was expecting more. A lot more. I know these guys are amazing together; I personally think this film was simply poorly written.

The characters lacked a depth that made you care about them, and the off-beat secondary characters left you scratching your head as to why they’re even in the movie. They detracted too much — way too much.

There were some funny moments, but definitely not what I was hoping for. If you’re a fan you’ll understand; the humor in this one was at like a quarter volume, compared to Step Brothers on full blast.

The chemistry with the rest of the cast lacked terribly. I wasn’t a fan of any of them. The more I think about it, the more I really didn’t care for this one.

I petition that these two guys knock out another film soon, so I can get the taste of this one out of my mouth. Save your money; wait for Netflix, and chill with them then.

Grade: C-

Movie Released: 2018-12-25

About The Peetimes: This was a really short flick — I think 1 Peetime works just fine. I found a great one that gives you plenty of time.

There are no extra scenes during, or after, the end credits of Holmes & Watson. (What we mean by Anything Extra.)

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Movie Review – The Favourite

Movie Review - The FavouriteThe Favourite was an entirely different kind of movie. This period piece was raunchy, stylish, opulent and wicked all at the same time. Based on the previews I was excited to see it and it really delivered what I was hoping for.

There was humor and a lot of it. I honestly can’t decide which of the three main characters were funnier. They all had such a commanding presence that picking one as my favorite would be impossible. Each one played off of the others impeccably. (I bet they had fun making this film.)

There was a tremendous amount of back stabbing, lying, and self preservation at work here. These women had their own agendas and really wouldn’t stop at anything to achieve them.

The sets and costumes were a delight to watch; the sheer majesty of their lifestyle was so decadent that my envy was running thick. Did they really live like that?

The movie certainly earned its R rating. There was some kinky stuff going on in that palace. All day long, every day, and every night. It’s not a movie for youngsters.

If you like quirky, somewhat the off-beaten-path types of movies, then I’d recommend this one to you. You’ll get a little bit of everything with The Favourite.

Grade: A-

About The Peetimes: I decided upon 2 Peetimes. Each has their advantages and disadvantages. This was a very difficult movie to do, due to the character development continually taking place, and the plot is thick with many layers. I’m comfortable with these 2, but pay close attention to each Peetime’s meta.

There are no extra scenes during, or after, the end credits of The Favourite. (What we mean by Anything Extra.)

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Movie Review – The Possession of Hannah Grace

Movie Review - The Possession of Hannah GraceHollywood pulled off another movie that actually had me a little bit afraid. I’ll say I was very tense during some scenes. That sure doesn’t happen very often anymore.

They did an incredible job of setting the tone of this horror flick. The ambiance was perfect; it kept you on the edge of your seat, wondering what was around the next dark corridor.

The special effects were awesome, right down to the noises that were made. I found myself cringing when I knew the super bad noise was going to happen again.

I also wanted to mention that this movie was almost entirely acted by Shay Mitchell. There were other actors, but the main focus of the movie was her and how she was dealing with this supernatural terror. She did a fantastic job — her role came to life onscreen. So if you’re a fan of the show Pretty Little Liars, I’d 100% recommend this movie to you. You’ll love what she does.

All in all, The Possession of Hannah Grace was a hit in my book. I enjoyed myself, just like I think you will.

Grade: B+

About The Peetimes: This was an incredibly short movie. I feel that only 1 Peetime was needed. After 45 minutes, there really isn’t a break in the build up or the finale that you’d want to miss.

There are no extra scenes during, or after, the end credits of The Possession of Hannah Grace. (What we mean by Anything Extra.)

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Movie Review – Green Book (It will touch your heart)

 

Movie Review - Green BookGreen Book was amazing! Everything about this movie was awesome. The acting, the story, the conclusion, it all had me seeing stars. I’ve not enjoyed a movie this much in a very long time. Every person in America needs to see this movie. It simply touched my heart in a way that movies haven’t been doing lately.

Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali deserve every award out there. These two guys together are dynamite! Their chemistry was so intense that it oozed off of the screen.

I can’t express this enough — the ticket price will be worth it. If you’re looking for a holiday movie, go see this one. You won’t be disappointed.

Grade: A+

About The Peetimes: There is nonstop dialog and character development throughout the entire movie. I’m going to recommend the second Peetime since it was shown in the trailers.

There are no extra scenes during, or after, the end credits of Green Book. (What we mean by Anything Extra.)

Quiz – Viggo Mortensen – Actor, Musician, Painter, Photographer, and Poet

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Movie Review – The Front Runner

 

Movie Review - The Front RunnerI’m having a difficult time reviewing this movie. When I asked myself if I liked it, I had no answer. It bored me; it made me despise politicians even more, and now I think there is a lot of shadiness in journalism. Thanks, Hollywood. This movie is all about people doing whatever they want, whenever they want, and not worrying about the outcome until they get caught.

Then it turns into a blood bath to cover your own a$$.

I sensed that they were portraying Hart in a favorable manner, but I’ve got to say Hart deserved what he got. A man that was campaigning about morals and doing things the right way, and in the very next breath sleeps with some young girl, and no, she wasn’t the first — with no thought about his wife sitting at home — should NOT be our President.

I get the theme here. Does a politician’s personal life deserve to be in the public eye? Umm, yes. My husband and I sat outside the theater and debated about this question for an hour. We agreed to disagree.

I’m not going to keep ranting about the ethics of politicians here, but I will state it burned me up. I’m still on fire about it. That leads me to the question: why did they make this movie? What relevance does this have today? It was decades ago. A guy wanted to be President but then cheated on his wife and got caught. Boo-hoo. He gets mad about it? Really? What did he expect? Should the journalists just roll over and say, “It’s okay Gary — no one cares what you do. We’ll just go and report on something useful and pertinent to the American people.”

I would give this movie an F, but if I take out my absolute distaste for the events that led up to this and think about it in a cinematic point of view, I’m going to give it a B. Hugh Jackman did an amazing job making me hate Gary Hart. Vera Farmiga did another splendid job in playing that man’s wife. J.K. Simmons was also at his best; I enjoyed his role immensely.

I am not recommending this movie; it was a total waste of my time and gave me heartburn. A thought occurred to me as I fell asleep last night: my tax dollars, my hard earned money, pays their salaries. We the people are literally footing the bill to the shenanigans we call our government. Sure, there are a few good politicians, but as we will be reminded a few years after Hart that these men we call our Presidents definitely didn’t learn from his mistakes. I think I’ll sit back now, relax and smoke a cigar.

Grade: B

About The Peetimes: Both Peetimes will work well for you.

There are no extra scenes during, or after, the end credits of The Front Runner. (What we mean by Anything Extra.)