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Ghosts of War (2020)
7/10
I love a good ghost story... but...
6 December 2020
The actors are top notch, the story line took off like a bullet and grabbed my attention immediately for the first 45 minutes... But after the first hour, the story line took a different turn that dashed my hopes of a 'Kingesque' type story. Granted, the drama is never-ending, but it turns to a sci-fi, which is totally unexpected. I would like to see more from this writer... I was not disappointed in the entertainment value of the movie and I would love to find more... I was shocked to see that Worldwide Gross for the film was an insulting $315,000, but I'm not really certain as to how profits for streaming movies really work out. I like this film, and I am looking forward to more stories.
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Ramy (2019– )
8/10
The Secret is Out
17 June 2019
I'm the one guy that no one would ever suspect of being Muslim; but this show pulls no punches at hitting the truth about being a Muslim in today's American social scene, therefore it's impossible to 'not' laugh my ass off.

Most people have their hang-ups that start from the time they were young enough to understand, but when family, culture and social norms clash, it results in explosive laughter. Therefore, with all of the preconceptions anyone may have about young and modern American Muslims - throw them away. When you watch this, you're about to peek into the real world of humor for Muslim dealing with the issues that are right here, right now.

It's warm and it's a hilarious view that may even make a Redneck blush.
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The Protector (2018–2020)
4/10
Suddenly Pretentious... As Usual
2 May 2019
I've seen my fair share of Turkish movies, shows and story-lines. The Protector started out well, but then it started to get too monotonous 2/3 of the way into the first season.

The second season went overboard with the over-acting and the story line that doesn't seem to get a clue as to which direction it should take.

To an English speaking viewer, Turkish shows are going to be hit or miss... This one had a great trajectory at first and then veered off center-line by a long mile. My Turkish family has even lost interest due to the over acting qualities of the cast.

I gave it a few stars simply because I love the Turkish scenes and architecture. But the hocus-pocus put a damper on the familiar scenery. Where's Cem Yilmaz when you need him?
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Bonding (2018–2021)
8/10
May I Laugh, Mistress May?
2 May 2019
I get a chuckle out of this show, but I agree, 'it's so short'. There are times when it takes a serious turn, but that's squelched when something completely off the wall takes place. Now, what may seem like 'off the wall' to me, is probably an everyday thing to some people.

There's nothing gross that would turn the viewer off. The visuals are pretty discreet. The dark comedy is the appeal in something that is still 'taboo' in America.
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The Rain (2018–2020)
8/10
Who Do You Trust?
16 May 2018
One doesn't have to try hard to get into the show; either you will be drawn into it, or you will change to another episode of 'Friends' to get to your 'happy place'. This series is more believable and entertaining than some series about a bunch of Zombies.

Although the series takes place in Denmark, and the actors are Danish, the show is dubbed in English. Now that we're past that part, lets get to the story line.

A scientific research firm releases a virus that nearly removes the population of Denmark. Is it contained only in Denmark? You'll have to find out. But as a viewer, put yourself in the situation of the actors when you know there are people that want to establish a cult of survivorship that will stop at nothing to exist.

Let's get real - zombies do not stand a chance in today's world. Never have - never will. But if a virus is released and one has to do what they can to survive, then that will enhance a more believable scenario.

The actors are pretty good... Normal people without the Hollywood embellishments. Therefore - better.

Some viewers have a difficult time with the flashbacks, but it lends a little more content to the background of the individuals.

I got into the show after the first episode. And I suggest the viewer just simply sit and watch - no thinking required - to understand this series. It looks promising and entertaining.
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A Quiet Place (2018)
2/10
Hyped Up Disappoinment
16 April 2018
First - Many of these reviews are unbelievable, therefore, they have to be fake reviews at best. After reading many of the reviews, I went into this film with an open mind, and I was only out $3.99 for the ticket. What did I have to lose? Only the time I spent in the dark, listening to the cruching of popcorn and the rumbling of a few stomachs.

Second - Going into the film was like starting on the third film of a five-part series. From the very beginning, I had a multitude of questions that revolved around the setting and the timeframe of the circumstances. Completely lost.

Although the acting was alright, at best, there was nothing exceptional about the film that would garner the rating and the reviews that were bestowed upon it by the many submissions.

A good majority of the reviews simply stated the film was 'The best horror thriller yet', or 'the greatest theater experience'... Very generic and canned submissions. Besides - IT'S A SCI-FI FLICK, NOT A HORROR MOVIE. The theater experience is simply sitting in a darkend quiet theater.

The only spoiler in this film is the loss of a few dollars, and a few hours one would spend in the quiet, dark theater. Do yourself a favor; question the IMDB and Rotten Tomatos reviews. They're simply audience manipulation tools.
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Snatched (2017)
2/10
Once You See It...
22 November 2017
You can't UNSEE IT!

It's been a while since I have seen a movie where the actors try way to hard to make it seem like something it's not. Amy Schumer is always lovable with her humor and facial expressions, but she does not do the story any justice.

We are graced with the presence of the legendary Goldie Hawn, but even that wasn't enough to save this story from being dropped into the bottom drawer and forgotten. Wanda Sykes is consistent with her humor, as Wanda Sykes.

I'm still surprised this film even made a profit. People must have been really bored. Sorry folks, but it's not even funny enough to want to finish, let alone see it twice.
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Nurse (2013)
1/10
Just... Bad! Kill Me, please!
30 October 2017
If anyone ever sees me standing outside a theater, ready to enter a movie this bad... kill me! The unfortunate side of this review is that I watched it on Netflix or something of the sort. I was alone, and I didn't have the guts to impale myself on a spike.

The cover art for this movie is the allure to anyone that wants to watch this flick. An attractive nurse in latex, riding a hypodermic needle... That is the only thing interesting about this movie.

The story line was not so bad, but the acting by the star has to be one of the worst jobs since Angie Everhart's job in Bordello of Blood or Elizabeth Berkley in Showgirls... I truly wished someone would break into my home and steal my television while I was watching this movie. it would have helped.

The shocking part of this production is that they actually had a $10m budget. Seriously? It never occurred to anyone to just invest the money into something else? I've spent enough of my time on this review for this flick... It's not worth one second more.
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Glitch (2015–2019)
9/10
I Need More of this Drug...
17 October 2016
One of the few shows I was immediately hooked on from the first few minutes of the first episode. But I could not help but feel that after six episodes, I felt ripped off and wanted to find the producers and hold them hostage for a guarantee of a few more episodes... but I maintained my composure and sucked it up.

The Actors: Perfect! There are a variety of acting styles brought to the table and I feel that this, along with the story line, was the perfect recipe for a great show. I'm not a 'Walking Dead' fan by no means at all, but this show is incomparable in every way, hence, the positive review.

The Story Line: Nope! You have to watch it. If you have Netflix, check out the first, and only, season... I am hoping for a second season or a continuation of the first.

Location: Down Under, Australia... How cool is that. 'Bout time we got something from our friends from 'down under'...

The bottom line: I want more! I know... Who cares about what I want. But this is 'GOLD'. I still have so many questions about the story and the plot. I can guess the answers, but that's no fun.

Looking forward to another fix...
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9/10
Not Enough Credit Given
22 July 2016
I truly enjoyed this movie, because it took a lighthearted approach to 'running for your life' while serving in the forces. I was, however, disheartened by the fact that Scott O'Grady brought down a law suit on the study for "portraying him" in a bad light. This movie was about anything else but Scott O'Grady. Note: Sorry Scott, but it's not about you...

I enjoyed the way Wilson took control of his character and lived up to the expectation of what one would expect from a Navy pilot. Let's not forget Gene 'The Man' Hackman. It's difficult to imagine Hackman 'not' being in the service because he does it so 'friggin' well.

The movie is suspenseful and the supporting cast is simply awesome! It's just one of those films where not enough credit was given to everyone, all around!
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3 A.M. 3D (2012)
9/10
Great Quality Horror and Originality
18 April 2015
I had no idea what to expect when I decided to watch this movie. Because it was a foreign film, I thought the subtitles would hold back a prospective positive review. I was pleasantly surprised and blown away by the actors, the storyline and the quality of the cinematography.

I hold any movie that classifies itself as a horror, or paranormal, flick to a very high standard - will it deliver a dose of unexpected shock, like the old Night Gallery and Twilight Zone days. Not exactly gore films, but they had the twists and turns that are lost in today's movies that deal with the supernatural or strange events from beyond the grave or wherever.

3 A.M. 3D Delivered the thrill and intrigue that I look for in a movie like this. The writers and directors do not fail to satisfy the viewer with the story, because it's not the 'same old storyline'.

Do yourself a favor if you're reading this review - see it! If you happen to be the writer or director - I'm waiting for the next installment. Thanks!
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The Interview (II) (2014)
2/10
Veni, vidi, frustrata! I came, I saw, I was very disappointed.
26 December 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Let's get one thing straight... A lot of people were reeled in by the 'Sony Hack'. I wasn't one of them. One thing I learned early on in marketing and advertising, was in order to get the most out of anything, controversy is the icing on the cake. Unfortunately, the rest of the cake didn't taste nearly as good as the faux icing. (Nice try Sony.) Sony had a really good thing going by saying they were 'hacked' and unsubstantiated incredible threats were coming down the pike about the roll-out of this movie. Maybe Sony execs should be charged with misleading the public, including the Federal Government, for gains.

Now the movie... It's understandable why Sony went to great lengths to create controversy surrounding The Interview, it is the only way to get the public interested in order to compete with the big holiday releases. Duuuh! In all, like a few other viewers, I think I was halfway through the flick before I cracked a smile. And then it was only short lived at best. With all of the 'hype' surrounding this picture, I was too hung up on wondering why North Korea would even give a damn about this film at all.

Sorry readers - Many were taken by a hoax for a move that lacks the bust-out-loud effects that one would expect from a comedy.If anything, North Korea should be commended for trying to thwart the release of this movie - if only they actually tried. (Again, nice try Sony.) If the movie was left alone and released without the controversy, it may have settled well for the viewers. But as Sony execs smile all the way to the bank, I'm stuck with indigestion, minus a few dollars, and almost two hours that I will never get back.

Anyone want to buy a Playstation?
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Iron Sky (2012)
8/10
You Mean It's Only Fiction?
31 October 2012
First off, the cinematography is top notch, but this beauty can only be appreciated in Bluray or IMAX. Imagine, Raiders of the Lost Arc, meets Sin City, meets SpaceBalls...

Special effects were cool and the imagery of the space ships were outstanding. I want to be in the next flick!

The story line is original and hilarious. Complete with babes, villains and heroes along with a few other characters that seem really familiar. In all, it had just the right amount of stock to keep the viewer's attention.

Simple and clean - I love it! It was fun but corny, but the costumes and originality beats a bunch!
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Twixt (2011)
8/10
Great Piece of Work
21 July 2012
First off, the story line was quite nice. It was different and off the beaten path of a typical motion picture of this genre. Typically, these types of movies do not impress me, nor do they interest me, but this caught me by surprise.

Simply put - the acting was superb. Val Kilmer is not your typical 'Hollywood Actor'... He's much better. Alden Ehrenreich was impressive as well.

Next - The cinematography was perfect! Scenes featuring Ben Chaplin as Poe COULD NOT have been portrayed any better. The 'surrealism' scenes aren't used much in films, but it was well worth it in this film.
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Can You Say "Bad Timing"?
10 August 2011
Are viewers ready for another 'doctor show'? Are they ready for a show that deals with a situation that dominates the nightly news? Regardless of recent activities abroad, it's obvious that the producers are only interested in recouping their investment.

While some may 'try' to compare the show to a past military themed comedy, the show smacks of a road map to 'China Beach'. It's hardly a comedy and it doesn't take a writing wizard to figure out that the most successful shows that have a theme that encompasses a particular military conflict are usually written and produced several years after the fact so as not to inflame relatively fresh wounds. Completely bad timing! But who can expect writers and producers to figure that out? I do – if they're Canadian. Only US producers make mistakes like this.

Anyone that's been to Afghanistan, (three years here), knows that the show is quite unrealistic in many respects. No need to go into details, because there are so many.
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5/10
It's All Good...
17 March 2011
While some find this picture a waste of time, I think the problem lies in one's inability to open up and think 'What if?'. I found the picture entertaining. It's Jack Black doing what Jack does best - act like Jack Black.

Although the storyline could have taken a different twist and went a little more in depth, it was done well enough to capture an audience for a while.

One bit of overlooked trivia - Amanda Peet's character was named Darcy Silverman. She and Jack Black worked together in the past in a movie called- 'Saving Silverman'.

Regardless, it was not a bad day at the movies.
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9/10
Turkish Patriots - All the Way!
19 January 2011
Wow... I didn't know what to expect when I watched this film. I was completely blown away by the story and the experience. When I discovered that it was based upon a true story, it only kicked me that much harder.

I've actually had people make comments to me about how they would love to be American after seeing a film like Air Force One. I never understood their desire until I saw this film... It made me wish I could be a Turkish soldier! I'm biased - what can I say? I have the utmost respect for the Turkish Asker. So much that I would lay down my own life to protect Turkey and each and every brother that defends her.

That said - this picture is powerful and moving. Forget the attitudes experienced in main stream cinema. This movie pulls out the feelings and the pride from within, no matter what your nationality may be.

It hurts to face reality of war. But imagine how the soldiers felt.
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120 (2008)
9/10
120 - Inspirational
19 January 2011
This film is a drama, and quite worthy of my 9-star rating. It's quite deserving of ten stars, but I think that if there was focus on the lives of some of the particular boys, it would have toppled many Academy Award films. But to focus on a few would most likely take away the true sacrifice of the many.

Nevertheless, the acting was excellent. It's a story of patriotism and sage topped off with a dose of emotional reality. Once I got past the tears, I managed to applaud this feature. All I can say is that the viewer will not be disappointed by this historical tale of a true heroic journey of '120'.

The directing and the location photography were outstanding. I applaud the crew.
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Yahsi Bati (2009)
8/10
How the West Was Fun...
19 January 2011
Having to wait until this feature came out on DVD was no disappointment, just be prepared to read subtitles - which is OK with me.

Being quite familiar with some of the idiosyncrasies of Turkish life from a foreigners view, I had a blast watching this collaborative production mix some of the finer points of the old west with the comedic lifestyle of a few Ottoman Turks making their first diplomatic trek to the Wild West.

As always, I enjoy the humor of Cem Yilmaz, but in order to really enjoy this film, one has to be quite familiar with the 'finer points' of living amongst our Turkish brethren – it's the little things that mean a lot.

'Chuck!' You know what I mean...
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9/10
Awed by the Acting
11 December 2010
As a writer and directer of many fine films, Yavuz Turgul should be quite happy with the results of Av Mevsimi. I don't speak much Turkish at all, but the film was easily understood since I'm a big fan of crime dramas and mysteries. This film does not disappoint.

Cem Yilmaz was outstanding as he stepped into a more serious role which is quite rare. I beg to see him in more roles of this nature in the future. His talent exceeds even those of his US counterparts. Sener Sen is quite the actor as usual. It's always an honor to see him perform. A new face adding balance to the storyline was Okan Yalabik. Never to be considered a 'bumbling rookie', he merely provided an atypical side to the feature portraying a rookie struggling to find his niche in life.

Outstanding film with much applause. My thanks goes out to my dear wife for taking me out for a day at the movies.
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Dexter: The Getaway (2009)
Season 4, Episode 12
6/10
Ripped my Heart
9 January 2010
I admit the writers really found a way to stick it to me, but this one left a scar. Outstanding ending - I'm in love with all of the characters, but perhaps I let my emotions run away with a few. I'm not sure I will be watching the next season. This one really took a lot out of me.

I understand - it's only a show. But I truly feel I developed an understanding and relationship with the characters. What a world... There's not much available where I live and work these days and I always looked forward to each episode as a way of 'getting revenge'. This episode handed my 'buttocks' back to me.
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7/10
Not your average scary flick... but kept me awake.
29 September 2008
I agree with much of the observations that MoviePhAnaTic presented - "Good B horror movie!".

It's all about realism, not acting. This contributed to the pucker factor.

Although most new gen movie watchers tend to lean more towards the 'Saw' type flicks to 'cut' to the chase of what the end result is for the actors, I still wondered if this movie was going to live up to the title. I suggest a different title should have been used; this would have added points to the freak factor.

Mike Marsh did a great job writing. The story was original although I detected a slight flavor of 'Carrie' and 'Blair Witch' in a few scenes. The choice of actors was fair, but the acting was marginal, yet it added to the realism. No one really adds hyper-drama to their lives like they do in the blockbusters... do they? This style contributed to the documentary flavor throughout many of the scenes.

I liked the movie overall. I look forward to more projects from Mike Marsh. This film was just what I needed to get the mind wandering about the hereafter. And in case you're wondering, the story kept me awake.

See it! You'll be drawn in.
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