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842 Views Share:Movies the giraffe watched in 2017: March
Movie list created by the giraffe 
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Noteworthy: The best and the worst
The breakdown: 25 movies watched and one abandoned
20 first views, 5 re-watches
15 via Netflix, 4 via DVD and 6 in the theatre
40 short films
24 first views, 16 re-watches
12 via Netflix, 16 via DVD, and 12 in the theatre (short film competition)
Decades touched: 1940s-2010s
There were a lot of movies in theatres around here that I wanted to catch this month, and I wound up seeing most of them. Wilson and T2 Trainspotting were the main exceptions, but maybe I'll catch them in April. I had hoped to catch more of the repertory films at Row House Cinema too, but the kiddo wasn't interested in seeing their stop-motion animated films they ran the last weekend I had her this month & I failed to catch Science of Sleep which was the sole Gondry film they ran that I never saw on the big screen. Still, as productive as the month was overall I'm not going to complain too much. Even without the slew of short films I watched (mostly with the kiddo) I averaged 5 movies a week, though my enthusiasm for Netflix's offerings is waning a bit. This month I seriously considered forcing myself to get through the handful of films I have in my queue now and switching services. Ah, but I've got some Netflix-only TV stuff I'm quietly working my way through, so I'm not ready to jump ship just yet. I may trade it in temporarily in favor of Amazon in the near future though.
The kiddo wasn't too enthusiastic about watching movies this month either, which led us to watch shorts instead & most of which we both enjoyed. It's not often I watch more than one or two in a month, so it was kind of a nice way to shake things up a little. And having MST3K return to Netflix helped shake things up too, so I'll keep working my way through those in the months ahead.
P.S. - If forced to choose the best hidden gem would be The Machine Girl, but since this was my second time watching it & not my first it's not getting that distinction.
20 first views, 5 re-watches
15 via Netflix, 4 via DVD and 6 in the theatre
40 short films
24 first views, 16 re-watches
12 via Netflix, 16 via DVD, and 12 in the theatre (short film competition)
Decades touched: 1940s-2010s
There were a lot of movies in theatres around here that I wanted to catch this month, and I wound up seeing most of them. Wilson and T2 Trainspotting were the main exceptions, but maybe I'll catch them in April. I had hoped to catch more of the repertory films at Row House Cinema too, but the kiddo wasn't interested in seeing their stop-motion animated films they ran the last weekend I had her this month & I failed to catch Science of Sleep which was the sole Gondry film they ran that I never saw on the big screen. Still, as productive as the month was overall I'm not going to complain too much. Even without the slew of short films I watched (mostly with the kiddo) I averaged 5 movies a week, though my enthusiasm for Netflix's offerings is waning a bit. This month I seriously considered forcing myself to get through the handful of films I have in my queue now and switching services. Ah, but I've got some Netflix-only TV stuff I'm quietly working my way through, so I'm not ready to jump ship just yet. I may trade it in temporarily in favor of Amazon in the near future though.
The kiddo wasn't too enthusiastic about watching movies this month either, which led us to watch shorts instead & most of which we both enjoyed. It's not often I watch more than one or two in a month, so it was kind of a nice way to shake things up a little. And having MST3K return to Netflix helped shake things up too, so I'll keep working my way through those in the months ahead.
P.S. - If forced to choose the best hidden gem would be The Machine Girl, but since this was my second time watching it & not my first it's not getting that distinction.
569
7.2
7.6
First viewing - March 18th
Ever since people started talking about Train to Busan I've wanted to see it, so the instant I noticed it had been added to Netflix I put it in my queue & watched it the same night. The whole thing is well-made with lots of intensity. There were times where I was yelling in my head for the characters to run away, so I got pretty caught up in it. The cast does an excellent job & the film isn't afraid to shake your expectations. Best of all the effects are wonderfully done & while I typically prefer slow zombies I thought the fast ones here were very effective. I'll definitely watch this again.
Currently streaming on Netflix
Best new-to-me film for March
Ever since people started talking about Train to Busan I've wanted to see it, so the instant I noticed it had been added to Netflix I put it in my queue & watched it the same night. The whole thing is well-made with lots of intensity. There were times where I was yelling in my head for the characters to run away, so I got pretty caught up in it. The cast does an excellent job & the film isn't afraid to shake your expectations. Best of all the effects are wonderfully done & while I typically prefer slow zombies I thought the fast ones here were very effective. I'll definitely watch this again.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
165
5.4
5.3
First viewing - March 12th
I recently came across a copy of the first Pixar shorts collection on DVD for super cheap, so I bought it with the kiddo in mind. Since she'd already watched plenty of Looney Tunes earlier in the day, when she asked if she could watch some of them before bed I agreed to watch one of the shorts with her. Well, one turned into 3 because the first two were so short. This one is pretty pointless, and the title is misleading as there's only one adventure to be had. The animation is okay, but nothing like what the company would go on to in the years ahead. So it was rather disappointing, but at least now I can say I've seen it I guess.
Worst film
I recently came across a copy of the first Pixar shorts collection on DVD for super cheap, so I bought it with the kiddo in mind. Since she'd already watched plenty of Looney Tunes earlier in the day, when she asked if she could watch some of them before bed I agreed to watch one of the shorts with her. Well, one turned into 3 because the first two were so short. This one is pretty pointless, and the title is misleading as there's only one adventure to be had. The animation is okay, but nothing like what the company would go on to in the years ahead. So it was rather disappointing, but at least now I can say I've seen it I guess.
the giraffe's rating:
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Home viewings
1164
6.2
6.8
First viewing - March 2nd
This film is clearly aimed at people already familiar with Tenacious D, and as such it worked fine for me. There are numerous nods to the songs on their first album, yet they're skipped over in favor of newer songs which are decent but mostly fall short of the quality of those early songs. I'd expected the whole film to be funnier than it is, but for me the humor was mostly of the mildly amusing variety & big laughs were scarce. Possibly it's also intended to be watched when you're inebriated or under the influence of other substances, but as I've said about other films that shouldn't be a prerequisite for enjoying the experience. It was worth watching once, but after waiting over 10 years to finally watch it also mildly disappointing.
Currently streaming on Netflix
This film is clearly aimed at people already familiar with Tenacious D, and as such it worked fine for me. There are numerous nods to the songs on their first album, yet they're skipped over in favor of newer songs which are decent but mostly fall short of the quality of those early songs. I'd expected the whole film to be funnier than it is, but for me the humor was mostly of the mildly amusing variety & big laughs were scarce. Possibly it's also intended to be watched when you're inebriated or under the influence of other substances, but as I've said about other films that shouldn't be a prerequisite for enjoying the experience. It was worth watching once, but after waiting over 10 years to finally watch it also mildly disappointing.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
First viewing - March 3rd
Since I'm seeing so many new movies this month I figured I'd better watch something older to keep things interesting. Here we have another standard Shaw Brothers film...dudes fighting dudes to prove who's the best and/or for revenge, lots of training sequences as they work to master skills to take down their superior opponents, and the title has Shaolin worked into it so that as time goes by I won't be able to distinguish it from similar films they've produced. Fortunately I find these films entertaining enough to keep giving them chances in hopes of finding the ones that are the best of the bunch.
Currently streaming on Netflix
Since I'm seeing so many new movies this month I figured I'd better watch something older to keep things interesting. Here we have another standard Shaw Brothers film...dudes fighting dudes to prove who's the best and/or for revenge, lots of training sequences as they work to master skills to take down their superior opponents, and the title has Shaolin worked into it so that as time goes by I won't be able to distinguish it from similar films they've produced. Fortunately I find these films entertaining enough to keep giving them chances in hopes of finding the ones that are the best of the bunch.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
149
7
7
Bob Roberts (1992)
First viewing - March 6th
I've seen a fair amount of positive feedback on this film over the years, so I was curious to give it a look. It's a well-made film, but also kinda depressing in a way. It works as a behind-the-scenes look at how the campaign trail might go for someone like Mr. Roberts, as well as social commentary of what lengths some politicians will go to to win the power they desire. As such it's also difficult to get behind, because there are few characters in the film worth spending time with. So while I do think it was worth a look I can also say I won't sit through it again.
Currently streaming on Netflix
I've seen a fair amount of positive feedback on this film over the years, so I was curious to give it a look. It's a well-made film, but also kinda depressing in a way. It works as a behind-the-scenes look at how the campaign trail might go for someone like Mr. Roberts, as well as social commentary of what lengths some politicians will go to to win the power they desire. As such it's also difficult to get behind, because there are few characters in the film worth spending time with. So while I do think it was worth a look I can also say I won't sit through it again.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
897
5.8
6.2
Vacancy (2007)
First viewing - March 7th
In an interesting bit of kismet I came across a used copy of Vacancy & in my head I told myself I'd only buy it if it was $4, which it was. And I'm satisfied with my purchase as it's a better film than I'd anticipated, though I'm now regretful that I didn't get to see it with a decent theater audience which might have enhanced the overall effects. Its occasional predictability kept it just shy of greatness, but I admire how tightly focused the entire thing is and the ways it builds tension throughout. When it ended I was left feeling like a bundle of frayed nerves & it took me a while to decompress from the experience. So like I said, I'm satisfied with having it & now can look forward to watching it again.
In an interesting bit of kismet I came across a used copy of Vacancy & in my head I told myself I'd only buy it if it was $4, which it was. And I'm satisfied with my purchase as it's a better film than I'd anticipated, though I'm now regretful that I didn't get to see it with a decent theater audience which might have enhanced the overall effects. Its occasional predictability kept it just shy of greatness, but I admire how tightly focused the entire thing is and the ways it builds tension throughout. When it ended I was left feeling like a bundle of frayed nerves & it took me a while to decompress from the experience. So like I said, I'm satisfied with having it & now can look forward to watching it again.
the giraffe's rating:
1552
5.7
6.1
The Waterboy (1998)
Re-watch - March 9th
I can't remember the last time I watched The Waterboy, a fact which is complicated by the number of times I've come across it on TV in the years since its release & only caught part of it. Some of it is still hilarious to me, while other parts now fall flat for me. The acting is certainly a mixed bag, but let's face it Sandler's comedies tend to be that way especially with his persistent use of the same mediocre actors in his films. Fortunately I still enjoy it more often than not, which means it's possible I'll watch it again some day. And yet I feel like my rating is too high despite that fact, so I'll just say my 8/10 is more like a high 7.
Currently streaming on Netflix
I can't remember the last time I watched The Waterboy, a fact which is complicated by the number of times I've come across it on TV in the years since its release & only caught part of it. Some of it is still hilarious to me, while other parts now fall flat for me. The acting is certainly a mixed bag, but let's face it Sandler's comedies tend to be that way especially with his persistent use of the same mediocre actors in his films. Fortunately I still enjoy it more often than not, which means it's possible I'll watch it again some day. And yet I feel like my rating is too high despite that fact, so I'll just say my 8/10 is more like a high 7.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
861
6.9
7.2
Fantasia 2000 (1999)
Re-watch - March 11th
I wanted to watch something with the kiddo, and Fantasia 2000 was the first one we both could agree on. My thoughts on it remain the same as they were a year ago, so mostly I took my pleasure from seeing the kiddo's reactions to everything. Turns out her favorite was also "The Firebird", though "Rhapsody In Blue" was further down her list order than it is mine.
Currently streaming on Netflix
I wanted to watch something with the kiddo, and Fantasia 2000 was the first one we both could agree on. My thoughts on it remain the same as they were a year ago, so mostly I took my pleasure from seeing the kiddo's reactions to everything. Turns out her favorite was also "The Firebird", though "Rhapsody In Blue" was further down her list order than it is mine.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
1330
7.6
8
The Imitation Game (2014)
First viewing - March 13th
I wound up staying home from work on this day after spraining my right ankle the night before, so I figured I'd get a couple of movies watched. I picked this one out to watch between breakfast & lunch, and I found it quite compelling. As WWII films go I also found it refreshing as it's focused on using intelligence over violence to fight the battles while also telling a story I never felt like I'd heard a million times already. The acting is stellar and I liked the characters for the most part. I don't know that I'd ever need to watch it a second time, but I'd gladly do so if someone else wanted to watch it.
Currently streaming on Netflix
I wound up staying home from work on this day after spraining my right ankle the night before, so I figured I'd get a couple of movies watched. I picked this one out to watch between breakfast & lunch, and I found it quite compelling. As WWII films go I also found it refreshing as it's focused on using intelligence over violence to fight the battles while also telling a story I never felt like I'd heard a million times already. The acting is stellar and I liked the characters for the most part. I don't know that I'd ever need to watch it a second time, but I'd gladly do so if someone else wanted to watch it.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
2013
7.5
7.5
Milk (2008)
First viewing - March 13th
This wound up being an interesting contrast to The Imitation Game, going from a closeted homosexual to one that's best known for his activism and inspiring homosexuals to leave the closet behind. Both men are inspiring in their own ways and worthy of their stories being passed on & their respective work being celebrated. Again here I liked most of the characters & found plenty to appreciate, while also feeling like I could watch it again at some point but I probably don't need to.
Currently streaming on Netflix
This wound up being an interesting contrast to The Imitation Game, going from a closeted homosexual to one that's best known for his activism and inspiring homosexuals to leave the closet behind. Both men are inspiring in their own ways and worthy of their stories being passed on & their respective work being celebrated. Again here I liked most of the characters & found plenty to appreciate, while also feeling like I could watch it again at some point but I probably don't need to.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
2200
7.5
7.7
Midnight in Paris (2011)
First viewing - March 16th
I haven't kept up with Woody Allen's films over the years, preferring instead to just catch them whenever the mood strikes me. And I tend to appreciate his films overall, but it's so rare I fall in love with one that I'm not inspired to catch every one he makes. So while I'm aware there's a consensus that some of his more recent films have been better than average, I haven't seen any of his films he's made this millenium. I do recall this one being especially well-liked, so when it popped up on Netflix I figured I'd give it a look.
Turns out it's well worth watching. Owen Wilson tends to annoy me most of the time, but he fits well into his role here & I found myself liking his character. More importantly he's surrounded by a mostly stellar cast, the best of whom play the 1920s icons that appear and leave memorable impressions. They may not be given much depth, but each is a joy to watch especially if you're at all familiar with their names & works. I was surprised to find that Corey Stoll played Hemingway, as he's unrecognizable under the wig...his face was familiar to me, but I'm so used to seeing his bald head that I couldn't figure out who the actor was until the credits rolled. Anyway, I found much to enjoy here though it didn't quite cross the line into greatness for me. I'd gladly watch it again though if for no other reason than to see the 1920s parts another time.
Just a thought: This makes 2 films with Allison Pill in it that I've watched this month, and 3 of her films in 2 months time.
I haven't kept up with Woody Allen's films over the years, preferring instead to just catch them whenever the mood strikes me. And I tend to appreciate his films overall, but it's so rare I fall in love with one that I'm not inspired to catch every one he makes. So while I'm aware there's a consensus that some of his more recent films have been better than average, I haven't seen any of his films he's made this millenium. I do recall this one being especially well-liked, so when it popped up on Netflix I figured I'd give it a look.
Turns out it's well worth watching. Owen Wilson tends to annoy me most of the time, but he fits well into his role here & I found myself liking his character. More importantly he's surrounded by a mostly stellar cast, the best of whom play the 1920s icons that appear and leave memorable impressions. They may not be given much depth, but each is a joy to watch especially if you're at all familiar with their names & works. I was surprised to find that Corey Stoll played Hemingway, as he's unrecognizable under the wig...his face was familiar to me, but I'm so used to seeing his bald head that I couldn't figure out who the actor was until the credits rolled. Anyway, I found much to enjoy here though it didn't quite cross the line into greatness for me. I'd gladly watch it again though if for no other reason than to see the 1920s parts another time.
Just a thought: This makes 2 films with Allison Pill in it that I've watched this month, and 3 of her films in 2 months time.
the giraffe's rating:
43
7.5
9.2
First viewing - March 16th
Hoorah! MST3K is back on Netflix! I've decided I'm going to make my way through what they currently have in order, and I'll be watching these any time I look at my queue & can't decide what I should watch. I've seen many episodes of the series, but not all of them & somehow I'd missed this one despite its reputation. Now I know the idea is that they watch awful movies, but "Manos" the Hands of Fate is easily one of the worst they've ever sat through. I was astounded at times by just how bad it is, and overall that it ever got released. Were it not for the jokes offered up I wouldn't have sat through the entire thing, and definitely without Joel & the bots I would never have attempted it at all. They get in plenty of good jokes along the way, though I wouldn't say I laughed as often as some other episodes. Overall it was a decent way to pass the time, though I don't think I'd sit through this episode again given how painful it was.
Currently streaming on Netflix
Hoorah! MST3K is back on Netflix! I've decided I'm going to make my way through what they currently have in order, and I'll be watching these any time I look at my queue & can't decide what I should watch. I've seen many episodes of the series, but not all of them & somehow I'd missed this one despite its reputation. Now I know the idea is that they watch awful movies, but "Manos" the Hands of Fate is easily one of the worst they've ever sat through. I was astounded at times by just how bad it is, and overall that it ever got released. Were it not for the jokes offered up I wouldn't have sat through the entire thing, and definitely without Joel & the bots I would never have attempted it at all. They get in plenty of good jokes along the way, though I wouldn't say I laughed as often as some other episodes. Overall it was a decent way to pass the time, though I don't think I'd sit through this episode again given how painful it was.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
First viewing - March 17th
After I got home from the Sweded films competition I was tempted to watch Be Kind Rewind but passed since I've watched it fairly recently. So instead I took another spin with the MST3K crew and this atrocious excuse for a movie Catalina Caper. I can't say I was especially entertained by any of it, as I fell asleep for about 20 minutes or so in the middle. Upon waking I was able to get through to the end without feeling like I'd missed anything. Again some of the jokes improved things but I didn't feel like they brought their A game to this film either. That won't stop me from pressing on though, I just won't watch this one a second time either.
Currently streaming on Netflix
After I got home from the Sweded films competition I was tempted to watch Be Kind Rewind but passed since I've watched it fairly recently. So instead I took another spin with the MST3K crew and this atrocious excuse for a movie Catalina Caper. I can't say I was especially entertained by any of it, as I fell asleep for about 20 minutes or so in the middle. Upon waking I was able to get through to the end without feeling like I'd missed anything. Again some of the jokes improved things but I didn't feel like they brought their A game to this film either. That won't stop me from pressing on though, I just won't watch this one a second time either.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
16
8.4
0
First viewing - March 20th
I enjoyed this one more overall than the two that preceded it. That's largely due to the fact that for at least the first half of the film the jokes are hilarious, though I'd also argue that the film is more tolerable than "Manos" or Catalina Caper. The jokes in the last half aren't as consistently good, but fortunately the cheesy awfulness of the movie enabled me to make my own snarky comments when Joel & the bots fell short of my expectations. Bonus points for this having the 2nd reference to Zappa so far in this collection.
Currently streaming on Netflix
I enjoyed this one more overall than the two that preceded it. That's largely due to the fact that for at least the first half of the film the jokes are hilarious, though I'd also argue that the film is more tolerable than "Manos" or Catalina Caper. The jokes in the last half aren't as consistently good, but fortunately the cheesy awfulness of the movie enabled me to make my own snarky comments when Joel & the bots fell short of my expectations. Bonus points for this having the 2nd reference to Zappa so far in this collection.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
183
5.7
6.3
First viewing - March 21st
My friend loaned me his copy of this so I could see it. Based on the reviews I'd read prior to watching it my expectations were pretty low, which may explain why I thought it was all right. It's certainly nothing original, influences like Shaun of the Dead and Braindead are obvious though it's nowhere near as clever nor infectiously fun as either of those films. Also working against it is the music which is mostly crap. Fortunately the central friendship gives us something to care about & for what it is it's entertaining enough. I doubt I'll watch it again but I don't regret giving it a chance.
My friend loaned me his copy of this so I could see it. Based on the reviews I'd read prior to watching it my expectations were pretty low, which may explain why I thought it was all right. It's certainly nothing original, influences like Shaun of the Dead and Braindead are obvious though it's nowhere near as clever nor infectiously fun as either of those films. Also working against it is the music which is mostly crap. Fortunately the central friendship gives us something to care about & for what it is it's entertaining enough. I doubt I'll watch it again but I don't regret giving it a chance.
the giraffe's rating:
First viewing - March 25th
More MST3K? Don't mind if I do. Prior to this one I hadn't realized that what's on Netflix is a collection of 20 episodes and not any specific season, but that's OK. The skits that split up the movie are mostly dull here, but despite my preference of Joel over Mike I've got to say the mocking of the film was mostly excellent. The film itself is definitely better off forgotten, and I suspect it was a direct to video release given the quality of it. The only thing positive I can say for it is that the actors were sure committed to making the most of the crap they were handed and for the lack of budget the effects are passable at times. Still, as they say, you can't polish a turd.
Currently streaming on Netflix
More MST3K? Don't mind if I do. Prior to this one I hadn't realized that what's on Netflix is a collection of 20 episodes and not any specific season, but that's OK. The skits that split up the movie are mostly dull here, but despite my preference of Joel over Mike I've got to say the mocking of the film was mostly excellent. The film itself is definitely better off forgotten, and I suspect it was a direct to video release given the quality of it. The only thing positive I can say for it is that the actors were sure committed to making the most of the crap they were handed and for the lack of budget the effects are passable at times. Still, as they say, you can't polish a turd.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
88
6.5
7.2
First viewing - March 28th
This was a Netflix recommendation not too long ago, and one I added after my dad insisted it was worth watching. Seeing that George Miller directed it helped encourage me as well. Overall, however, I thought the whole thing was pretty average. It's fairly entertaining, but I saw where it was going early on and the road to get to the anticipated ending wasn't overly impressive. The cast does a solid job all around though, and often the scenes look great. For a guy known for the gonzo stunts of the Mad Max series, I felt like he pulled a lot of punches with the stunts here, or at least the way they're edited makes them seem mediocre by comparison. I don't regret watching it, I just wish it had been better.
Currently streaming on Netflix
This was a Netflix recommendation not too long ago, and one I added after my dad insisted it was worth watching. Seeing that George Miller directed it helped encourage me as well. Overall, however, I thought the whole thing was pretty average. It's fairly entertaining, but I saw where it was going early on and the road to get to the anticipated ending wasn't overly impressive. The cast does a solid job all around though, and often the scenes look great. For a guy known for the gonzo stunts of the Mad Max series, I felt like he pulled a lot of punches with the stunts here, or at least the way they're edited makes them seem mediocre by comparison. I don't regret watching it, I just wish it had been better.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
20
3.8
0
First viewing - March 30th
After giving up on WolfCop (see the bottom of this list), I decided to just watch another MST3K entry. Compared to the other films I've watched these guys poke fun at this month, this one is probably the most watchable. Well, up until the ending when an unnecessary sandstorm derails everything, especially the momentum leading into it. The whole thing is pretty dumb, which meant plenty of fodder for the mock. I even found myself coming up with quips along the way. But at least the film moves along quickly until it gets to its anticlimactic ending, which meant it's not too painful.
MST3K rating: 8/10
Currently streaming on Netflix
After giving up on WolfCop (see the bottom of this list), I decided to just watch another MST3K entry. Compared to the other films I've watched these guys poke fun at this month, this one is probably the most watchable. Well, up until the ending when an unnecessary sandstorm derails everything, especially the momentum leading into it. The whole thing is pretty dumb, which meant plenty of fodder for the mock. I even found myself coming up with quips along the way. But at least the film moves along quickly until it gets to its anticlimactic ending, which meant it's not too painful.
MST3K rating: 8/10
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
52
5.3
5.7
Re-watch - March 31st
I recently stumbled across a copy of S.F.W. and couldn't resist picking it up to revisit it. I haven't watched it since the days of VHS, but back in the '90s I loved the hell out of it. Over 20 years later it's, well, to be honest not as great as I thought I remembered. I love the social commentary throughout still, and the exploration of turning nobodies into megastars continues to be relevant. The soundtrack still kicks ass all over the place, and it brings me joy to see GWAR and Babes in Toyland appear briefly in the film. But much of the supporting cast is painful to watch, and the whole film is shot with music video sensibilities instead of cinematic ones. Which would have been fine if it were a made for MTV movie, but it could never have run on said channel due to the frequent use of profanity. So I suspect it's destined to be either forgotten or at best a cult classic. Given the fact it's not widely available, however, the former seems more likely.
Just a thought: I never realized the actress that played the critic in High Fidelity was in this.
I recently stumbled across a copy of S.F.W. and couldn't resist picking it up to revisit it. I haven't watched it since the days of VHS, but back in the '90s I loved the hell out of it. Over 20 years later it's, well, to be honest not as great as I thought I remembered. I love the social commentary throughout still, and the exploration of turning nobodies into megastars continues to be relevant. The soundtrack still kicks ass all over the place, and it brings me joy to see GWAR and Babes in Toyland appear briefly in the film. But much of the supporting cast is painful to watch, and the whole film is shot with music video sensibilities instead of cinematic ones. Which would have been fine if it were a made for MTV movie, but it could never have run on said channel due to the frequent use of profanity. So I suspect it's destined to be either forgotten or at best a cult classic. Given the fact it's not widely available, however, the former seems more likely.
Just a thought: I never realized the actress that played the critic in High Fidelity was in this.
the giraffe's rating:
287
6.2
5.9
Re-watch - March 31st
Man this film is so much over the top fun I adore it. It's overrun with arterial bloodsprays and delivers some unforgettable visuals like the tempura arm. It's far from a perfect film, but if you're looking for an insane action movie it'll cure what ails ya.
Man this film is so much over the top fun I adore it. It's overrun with arterial bloodsprays and delivers some unforgettable visuals like the tempura arm. It's far from a perfect film, but if you're looking for an insane action movie it'll cure what ails ya.
the giraffe's rating:
Add items to section
Big screen attractions
Films I caught in a theatre
1062
7.5
8.1
Logan (2017)
First viewing - March 4th
Man it's a wonderful thing to find an X film that's grounded for a change. This is among the best films featuring these characters, a distinction it accomplishes by focusing on the characters first and giving them stakes that are actually relatable (or at least more so than all-powerful yet incompetent threats to the entire planet). The film has a lot on its mind, but stays focused throughout which is especially appreciated. Jackman & Stewart have both expressed that they'd be satisfied if this film is their last in their respective roles, and if it is then it's a worthy send-off. X-23 is impressive to watch, and the rest of the cast & characters do excellent jobs. Best of all the film went full-on with the R rating, embracing it like Deadpool did without aping that film. There are a handful of issues along the way that keep it from being perfect, but only one of them derailed my suspense of disbelief. Still, this was well worth watching and I'll gladly watch it again.
Man it's a wonderful thing to find an X film that's grounded for a change. This is among the best films featuring these characters, a distinction it accomplishes by focusing on the characters first and giving them stakes that are actually relatable (or at least more so than all-powerful yet incompetent threats to the entire planet). The film has a lot on its mind, but stays focused throughout which is especially appreciated. Jackman & Stewart have both expressed that they'd be satisfied if this film is their last in their respective roles, and if it is then it's a worthy send-off. X-23 is impressive to watch, and the rest of the cast & characters do excellent jobs. Best of all the film went full-on with the R rating, embracing it like Deadpool did without aping that film. There are a handful of issues along the way that keep it from being perfect, but only one of them derailed my suspense of disbelief. Still, this was well worth watching and I'll gladly watch it again.
the giraffe's rating:
870
7.3
7.7
First viewing - March 4th
If you're able to see this in the theatre with an audience, I recommend doing so. The full audience energy improves the experience overall. I just hope for your sake you don't have idiots in your theatre like I had in mine...one woman brought a toddler/preschooler (guessing around 3 years old) to the screening & they stayed the entire time despite the child having no interest in the film & annoying everyone off & on. No idea how they didn't get kicked out, much less why the theatre decided to allow them entrance.
Anyway, Get Out is a more intelligent entry into the horror canon, with social commentary throughout that rings true & is (sadly) timely. The ensemble cast works well together, and Peele shows skill in building suspense & balancing the horror & comedic elements. I was still thinking about how the film is crafted the next day, and it's safe to say I'll watch it again. I didn't think it was quite great, but it's very good and well worth checking out.
If you're able to see this in the theatre with an audience, I recommend doing so. The full audience energy improves the experience overall. I just hope for your sake you don't have idiots in your theatre like I had in mine...one woman brought a toddler/preschooler (guessing around 3 years old) to the screening & they stayed the entire time despite the child having no interest in the film & annoying everyone off & on. No idea how they didn't get kicked out, much less why the theatre decided to allow them entrance.
Anyway, Get Out is a more intelligent entry into the horror canon, with social commentary throughout that rings true & is (sadly) timely. The ensemble cast works well together, and Peele shows skill in building suspense & balancing the horror & comedic elements. I was still thinking about how the film is crafted the next day, and it's safe to say I'll watch it again. I didn't think it was quite great, but it's very good and well worth checking out.
the giraffe's rating:
1040
8.3
8.3
Double Indemnity (1944) (1952)
Re-watch - March 5th
Today is the first annual Reel Film Day (on 3/5 as in 35mm), and the theatre within walking distance of my home provided an irresistible option to participate in it...the excellent Double Indemnity in 35mm with the option of adding a chili dinner and 2 tickets for beer to consume during the screening. The food & beer were good, the print was great given its age, and of course the film was every bit as good as the last time I saw it.
Today is the first annual Reel Film Day (on 3/5 as in 35mm), and the theatre within walking distance of my home provided an irresistible option to participate in it...the excellent Double Indemnity in 35mm with the option of adding a chili dinner and 2 tickets for beer to consume during the screening. The food & beer were good, the print was great given its age, and of course the film was every bit as good as the last time I saw it.
the giraffe's rating:
1260
6.2
6.4
Be Kind Rewind (2008)
1st Annual Sweded Films Competition
Sorry, no images to share here. My friend noticed that Row House was holding a Sweded Films competition prior to screening Be Kind Rewind as part of their week-long run of Gondry's films, and when he told me about it we had to go. Originally we'd planned to see Be Kind Rewind as well, but he had other plans & since he was my ride I left when he did.
The competition consisted of 12 short films, Sweded versions of the following:
The Exorcist
Tommy Boy
The Matrix
The Lion King
John Wick
Love Actually
The Breakfast Club
Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone
The Birds
Zoolander
Space Jam
Friday the 13th Part 4
I thought Harry Potter without any kid actors was the best, followed closely by the all-puppets version of The Lion King and Friday the 13th. Love Actually took top prize, and it was decent (my favorite part was them acknowledging Andrew Lincoln's fame for The Walking Dead). All were entertaining to some degree except for The Breakfast Club which was just 5 people dancing the entire time. All in all it was a good way to spend a Friday night out, and we were so inspired we may participate next year if we can get everything together.
the giraffe's rating:
146
5.7
6.1
The Belko Experiment (2017)
First viewing - March 18th
I kicked off my kiddo-free Saturday with this crazy film, which is full of ultraviolence & splendid gore effects. The cast performs well enough, and the script keeps upping the ante through the finale. It falls short of being great, however, by never providing any real depth to what's going on & the film wavers between embracing humor and treating the story seriously so the tone lacks consistency. Which is a shame because the first half proceeds smoothly especially when it's setting up everything to come. So in the end it was worth seeing but nothing special enough to warrant another trip through it.
I kicked off my kiddo-free Saturday with this crazy film, which is full of ultraviolence & splendid gore effects. The cast performs well enough, and the script keeps upping the ante through the finale. It falls short of being great, however, by never providing any real depth to what's going on & the film wavers between embracing humor and treating the story seriously so the tone lacks consistency. Which is a shame because the first half proceeds smoothly especially when it's setting up everything to come. So in the end it was worth seeing but nothing special enough to warrant another trip through it.
the giraffe's rating:
559
6.3
6.6
Kong: Skull Island (2017)
First viewing - March 18th
All I wanted from Kong: Skull Island was something fun, and the film gladly delivers that in spades. The high-quality cast elevates the proceedings, and the stellar CGI work actually sells the giant monsters on display. Normally I gripe about CGI, but at one point during this film I thought to myself how happy I am that it's reached the level where it can give us great-looking monster battles instead of us having to rely on men in suits to clumsily stumble through it. Granted there are some minor flaws, but nothing that would talk me out of sitting through it all again at some point. Oh yeah, and the soundtrack rocks too. I'll also point out that if you haven't seen it yet you should wait through the credits...that last scene may have been my favorite in the entire film.
Just a thought: Brie Larson gets hotter every year.
All I wanted from Kong: Skull Island was something fun, and the film gladly delivers that in spades. The high-quality cast elevates the proceedings, and the stellar CGI work actually sells the giant monsters on display. Normally I gripe about CGI, but at one point during this film I thought to myself how happy I am that it's reached the level where it can give us great-looking monster battles instead of us having to rely on men in suits to clumsily stumble through it. Granted there are some minor flaws, but nothing that would talk me out of sitting through it all again at some point. Oh yeah, and the soundtrack rocks too. I'll also point out that if you haven't seen it yet you should wait through the credits...that last scene may have been my favorite in the entire film.
Just a thought: Brie Larson gets hotter every year.
the giraffe's rating:
297
6.7
7
Raw (2017)
First viewing - March 29th
Much ado has been made about Raw, so when the theatre in my neighborhood screened it I made sure to catch it. I can definitely say that I was consistently entertained by the film, and it's very well-made. The acting is impressive and I liked the fresh take on the coming-of-age story. There were moments, however, that I struggled to suspend my disbelief, and I'm not entirely sure it successfully delivered what it intends. It's an impressive debut, don't get me wrong, but it's also flawed. Hopefully writer/director Julia Ducournau will continue to improve over time and deliver even better things. She has the potential to blow us all away.
Much ado has been made about Raw, so when the theatre in my neighborhood screened it I made sure to catch it. I can definitely say that I was consistently entertained by the film, and it's very well-made. The acting is impressive and I liked the fresh take on the coming-of-age story. There were moments, however, that I struggled to suspend my disbelief, and I'm not entirely sure it successfully delivered what it intends. It's an impressive debut, don't get me wrong, but it's also flawed. Hopefully writer/director Julia Ducournau will continue to improve over time and deliver even better things. She has the potential to blow us all away.
the giraffe's rating:
Add items to section
Short films
17
6.4
6.8
John Henry (2000)
First viewing - March 11th
After watching Fantasia 2000, we decided to stay on the couch & run through the Disney short films collection on Netflix. Each film in the collection is preceded by an intro from the filmmakers, some of which are almost identical & few of which were necessary especially if you'd never seen them before. I'm going to go ahead & state now that all of these were well-animated & worth sitting through. Few seemed truly great, however, and a few of them I wouldn't need to watch again.
While I appreciated seeing the tale of John Henry turned into animated form, my familiarity with the subject meant that it wasn't all that impressive. The kiddo really liked it though.
Currently streaming on Netflix
After watching Fantasia 2000, we decided to stay on the couch & run through the Disney short films collection on Netflix. Each film in the collection is preceded by an intro from the filmmakers, some of which are almost identical & few of which were necessary especially if you'd never seen them before. I'm going to go ahead & state now that all of these were well-animated & worth sitting through. Few seemed truly great, however, and a few of them I wouldn't need to watch again.
While I appreciated seeing the tale of John Henry turned into animated form, my familiarity with the subject meant that it wasn't all that impressive. The kiddo really liked it though.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
12
6.7
6.5
Lorenzo (2004)
First viewing - March 11th
This one was so good I had to remind myself what happened in it. Course, that could also be because I was falling asleep when it was on.
Currently streaming on Netflix
This one was so good I had to remind myself what happened in it. Course, that could also be because I was falling asleep when it was on.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
71
7.7
7.8
The Little Matchgirl (2006)
First viewing - March 11th
Actually I can't entirely count this as I did take a nap through it. But seriously, who doesn't know this story? It's not a tale I've ever cared much for so I opted to skip it. The kiddo seemed to enjoy it, however.
Currently streaming on Netflix
Actually I can't entirely count this as I did take a nap through it. But seriously, who doesn't know this story? It's not a tale I've ever cared much for so I opted to skip it. The kiddo seemed to enjoy it, however.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
25
7.2
7.3
First viewing - March 11th
Man, I loved those old Goofy cartoons where he'd screw up on the task at hand while the narrator gives us the running commentary. This is a newer one, and it's just as fun as those were. It was worth waking up from my nap for.
Currently streaming on Netflix
Man, I loved those old Goofy cartoons where he'd screw up on the task at hand while the narrator gives us the running commentary. This is a newer one, and it's just as fun as those were. It was worth waking up from my nap for.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
12
7.6
7.5
Tick Tock Tale (2010)
First viewing - March 11th
I enjoyed this one quite a bit too, watching the little clock go from outcast to hero. Obviously the whole thing is ridiculous, but it's charming enough.
Currently streaming on Netflix
I enjoyed this one quite a bit too, watching the little clock go from outcast to hero. Obviously the whole thing is ridiculous, but it's charming enough.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
6
7.8
6.5
First viewing - March 11th
Oh boy, elves running around like they're in Mission: Impossible. Oh, and this one was called "Operation: Secret Santa", yet only "Tiny's Big Adventure" seems to exist on Listal & IMDb for some reason. It was okay I guess, but nothing I'd bother with again.
Currently streaming on Netflix
Oh boy, elves running around like they're in Mission: Impossible. Oh, and this one was called "Operation: Secret Santa", yet only "Tiny's Big Adventure" seems to exist on Listal & IMDb for some reason. It was okay I guess, but nothing I'd bother with again.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
30
7.2
7
The Ballad of Nessie (2011)
First viewing - March 11th
And here's a story about the Loch Ness Monster. It's pretty simple overall, mildly amusing, not great by any means but worth sitting through once.
Currently streaming on Netflix
And here's a story about the Loch Ness Monster. It's pretty simple overall, mildly amusing, not great by any means but worth sitting through once.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
220
6.7
7.6
Tangled Ever After (2012)
First viewing - March 11th
A short that focuses on the two best characters from Tangled getting into shenanigans? Yes please, and feel free to send me another one at some point.
Currently streaming on Netflix
A short that focuses on the two best characters from Tangled getting into shenanigans? Yes please, and feel free to send me another one at some point.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
360
7.5
8.2
Re-watch - March 11th
I saw this one in the theatre and I feel now like my rating for it was too low. I dig the fact that it tells a story with no actual dialogue, and the animation is pretty refreshing to watch.
Currently streaming on Netflix
I saw this one in the theatre and I feel now like my rating for it was too low. I dig the fact that it tells a story with no actual dialogue, and the animation is pretty refreshing to watch.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
82
7.8
7.5
Get a Horse! (2013) (2013)
First viewing - March 11th
Now this one was pretty impressive. It combines cel animation with 3D animation for a visual feast surrounding a simple yet entertaining story. If it didn't cross my line of greatness, then it came close.
Currently streaming on Netflix
Now this one was pretty impressive. It combines cel animation with 3D animation for a visual feast surrounding a simple yet entertaining story. If it didn't cross my line of greatness, then it came close.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
93
7.1
8.2
Re-watch - March 11th
Yep, still enjoy the storytelling in this one. I could watch this every couple years and have fun with it every time.
Currently streaming on Netflix
Yep, still enjoy the storytelling in this one. I could watch this every couple years and have fun with it every time.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
108
6.1
6.8
Frozen Fever (2015)
First viewing - March 11th
The collection ended with "Frozen Fever", which was just okay. I found Frozen to be overrated a bit, so I didn't need another round with the characters. Clearly its fans would disagree with me on that, and I'll admit that this had some amusing moments. The kiddo loved it though.
Currently streaming on Netflix
The collection ended with "Frozen Fever", which was just okay. I found Frozen to be overrated a bit, so I didn't need another round with the characters. Clearly its fans would disagree with me on that, and I'll admit that this had some amusing moments. The kiddo loved it though.
Currently streaming on Netflix
the giraffe's rating:
254
8.1
8.6
Re-watch - March 12th
Once a year I put this on to see whether the kiddo still appreciates it, and this time around she laughed loudly throughout the entire thing. After that she watched some other Looney Tunes shorts, and while she clearly enjoyed them she didn't laugh at any of them as hard as she did this one.
Once a year I put this on to see whether the kiddo still appreciates it, and this time around she laughed loudly throughout the entire thing. After that she watched some other Looney Tunes shorts, and while she clearly enjoyed them she didn't laugh at any of them as hard as she did this one.
the giraffe's rating:
129
7.8
8.3
Re-watch - March 12th
After "Duck Amuck" she asked to watch the "duck season rabbit season one", so we watched this together too. She laughed a few times during it, mostly at Daffy's expressions after each time he gets shot by Elmer.
After "Duck Amuck" she asked to watch the "duck season rabbit season one", so we watched this together too. She laughed a few times during it, mostly at Daffy's expressions after each time he gets shot by Elmer.
the giraffe's rating:
14
7.1
7.4
Re-watch - March 12th
The red-headed boy demanding an Easter egg runs through my head from time to time, so I wanted to make sure the kiddo saw it. The whole thing is amusing, with the Easter Bunny turning over his duties to Bugs who runs into trouble at every step. It's not great, but I'm sure I'll watch it again. When it ended I needed to start cooking dinner, otherwise I might have sat on the couch with my daughter & watched more Looney Tunes with her. She kept watching Bugs Bunny cartoons without me until dinnertime.
The red-headed boy demanding an Easter egg runs through my head from time to time, so I wanted to make sure the kiddo saw it. The whole thing is amusing, with the Easter Bunny turning over his duties to Bugs who runs into trouble at every step. It's not great, but I'm sure I'll watch it again. When it ended I needed to start cooking dinner, otherwise I might have sat on the couch with my daughter & watched more Looney Tunes with her. She kept watching Bugs Bunny cartoons without me until dinnertime.
the giraffe's rating:
375
6.7
7.3
Luxo Jr. (1987)
Re-watch - March 12th
This one was far better than the first one, but still nothing great. At this point it's most noteworthy for being the birthplace of the Pixar lamp and the ball that appears in all their films since. It's cute & the animation is solid, but there's not much else to say about it.
This one was far better than the first one, but still nothing great. At this point it's most noteworthy for being the birthplace of the Pixar lamp and the ball that appears in all their films since. It's cute & the animation is solid, but there's not much else to say about it.
the giraffe's rating:
201
5.9
6.4
Red's Dream (1987)
Re-watch - March 12th
"Red's Dream" is as long as the two shorts above combined, and it seemed like a good place to stop for the night. Once again the animation is well-done for the time, and I like that it gets kind of a downer ending. The kiddo didn't appreciate the latter as much as I did, and expressed that she likes movies that have happy endings. This led to us discussing that both have their use & value, especially if the ending suits the story.
"Red's Dream" is as long as the two shorts above combined, and it seemed like a good place to stop for the night. Once again the animation is well-done for the time, and I like that it gets kind of a downer ending. The kiddo didn't appreciate the latter as much as I did, and expressed that she likes movies that have happy endings. This led to us discussing that both have their use & value, especially if the ending suits the story.
the giraffe's rating:
306
6.2
6.6
Tin Toy (1988)
First viewing - March 25th
And here we have the other early Pixar short I hadn't watched yet, and OH MY GOD THAT BABY IS HIDEOUS! AAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!! Ok, I'm calmer now. Seriously, if the baby wasn't so damn creepy I'd gladly watch this again as it's fairly amusing otherwise. But no, creepy-ass baby means I'm going to ignore it & hope I eventually forget the whole thing. The kiddo would likely agree with me because she couldn't stand to look at it either.
And here we have the other early Pixar short I hadn't watched yet, and OH MY GOD THAT BABY IS HIDEOUS! AAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!! Ok, I'm calmer now. Seriously, if the baby wasn't so damn creepy I'd gladly watch this again as it's fairly amusing otherwise. But no, creepy-ass baby means I'm going to ignore it & hope I eventually forget the whole thing. The kiddo would likely agree with me because she couldn't stand to look at it either.
the giraffe's rating:
387
7
7.5
Knick Knack (1992)
Re-watch - March 25th
Forgot to mention for the short above that the kiddo and I decided on this particular Saturday to run through the rest of these shorts in between the rest of the plans we had for the day. Next up was Knick Knack which we both enjoyed far better than the previous short due to its complete absence of creepy babies. Also the whole thing is just silly fun, and works as a precursor to Toy Story what with all the toys being alive while nobody else is around to witness it.
Forgot to mention for the short above that the kiddo and I decided on this particular Saturday to run through the rest of these shorts in between the rest of the plans we had for the day. Next up was Knick Knack which we both enjoyed far better than the previous short due to its complete absence of creepy babies. Also the whole thing is just silly fun, and works as a precursor to Toy Story what with all the toys being alive while nobody else is around to witness it.
the giraffe's rating:
675
7.6
7.9
Geri's Game (1997)
Re-watch - March 25th
I've thought "Geri's Game" was genius from the first time I watched it, and I still stand by my feelings on it. The kiddo was really amused with it too, which only backs me up.
I've thought "Geri's Game" was genius from the first time I watched it, and I still stand by my feelings on it. The kiddo was really amused with it too, which only backs me up.
the giraffe's rating:
738
7.4
8
Re-watch - March 25th
There's a distinct influence from Looney Tunes here, which may account for why I dig it so much. The whole thing is too simple to cross the line into greatness, but it makes me laugh every time I watch it even when I know what's coming.
There's a distinct influence from Looney Tunes here, which may account for why I dig it so much. The whole thing is too simple to cross the line into greatness, but it makes me laugh every time I watch it even when I know what's coming.
the giraffe's rating:
406
6.7
7.1
Mike's New Car (2002)
Re-watch - March 25th
And here's another short that's full of slapstick humor in the vein of Looney Tunes. I laugh heartily throughout this one as well.
And here's another short that's full of slapstick humor in the vein of Looney Tunes. I laugh heartily throughout this one as well.
the giraffe's rating:
289
6.4
7
Boundin' (2004)
Re-watch - March 25th
Yep, my feelings on this one haven't changed. I think the animation is fine and I appreciate the message, but overall it's nothing I'd want to watch a bunch of times.
Yep, my feelings on this one haven't changed. I think the animation is fine and I appreciate the message, but overall it's nothing I'd want to watch a bunch of times.
the giraffe's rating:
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