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Showing posts from February, 2024

THE IRON CLAW (2024): THE REQUIEM FOR A DREAM OF WRESTLING DRAMAS

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I almost always have a witty comment to summarise my thoughts on the film I’ve just watched. But after witnessing what I think might just be the most devastating and epic drama of the year (judging by UK releases), I’m not sure I can muster the energy. Had this emotional body slammer of two and half hours come out last year, it could have perhaps rivalled Oppenheimer for the top three. I am pleased to say that this semi-historical account of one the wrestling world’s most infamous families is my first A+ grade given to a newly released picture in years. Regardless of issue, for there were a few, this is an experience rich with prestigious direction with a clear love for the topic and a family of beautiful performances. Because the latter element is so juicy, we have to discuss that first. Let’s begin with Zach Efron… WHAT THE HELL?!!! Where did this come from?!!!!! I was always aware of Efron slow ascension above the High School Musical type casting, but I never could have predicted he

ARGYLLE: AN OVERSTRETCHED SPY THRILLER THAT LOSES ITS CHARM FAST

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From what looked like a snazzy premise of art imitating life, Matthew Vaughn seemed to get lost in keeping the concept alive for a runtime that is too long for it, along with losing the directorial flair of his Kingsman films. As a result, Argylle is very messy. It succeeds well in the first hour where the imagination of Ellie Conway, an introverted spy novelist, matches the ongoings of a shady syndicate and a spy, played by Sam Rockwell of all people, is sent to protect her. So, let’s clear this up, Henry Cavill is not the main star of this show. As it is always wonderful to see his beautiful face and for him to live, albeit briefly, in the role of James Bond that he may never see, Cavill is a fleeting cameo designed only for ticket sales. It would have been fun had he played more of a part in the big twist at the end, but alas, one of the most popular actors of today is sprinkled throughout the first three quarters, then disappears and had me forget he was in the film, to begin with