Tag: film

We Live in Time “Review”

Release date: January 1, 2025 (UK)

Director: John Crowley

Distributed by: A24, StudioCanal

Box office: $314,537

Cinematography: Stuart Bentley

Edited by: Justine Wright

Welcome to this weeks Popped “review” batch with first up We Live in Time followed by Smile 2.

We Live in Time is focused around the beautiful relationship between Tobias played by Andrew Garfield and Almut played by Florence Pugh.

Performances were fantastic and I rather enjoyed this relationship and movie. Sadly however this movie can have wide swings depending how quickly you connect with these two.

The story telling was what killed the drive of the movie for me personally as at first they tell the story throughout periods of time of this couples relationship before the pieces come together.

Delivering the bad news up front, after introducing the characters. Made moments of the film feel draggy as I wished they setup the couples relationship and attachment between the audience first. Once the picture came together however you get to experience a touching and heart felt story.

Speaking of delivering, my favorite scene in the movie was the delivery of there child and the fun yet chaotic and sweet chemistry between Tobias & Almut along with some surprise characters that probably didn’t expect their day to turn out that way.

Not a movie I’d watch again but a good movie to experience with your romantic partner. Remember like the posters says. Every minute counts.

So go tell your loved ones how you feel and give them a huge hug today <3.

7/10 good movie!

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Piece by Piece “Review”

Release date: October 11, 2024 (USA)

Director: Morgan Neville

Distributed by: Focus Features, Universal Pictures

Budget: $16 million

Edited by: : Jason Zeldes; Aaron Wickenden; Oscar Vazquez;

Production companies: The Lego Group; Tremolo Productions; I Am Other

Hello everyone and welcome to this week’s batch of “Reviews” which started with Saturday Night and now Piece by Piece.

I included the first movie as I make the point twice that the origins of these movies kind of go over my head. So with that caveat, I’ll dive into this “Review”.

During my youth I listened to very different music and wasn’t in the scene of music while growing up. Due to not understanding lyrics I listened to anything I could bop to and headbang while playing video games.

That being said when it comes to all the music that Pharrell Williams had a hand in creating, I LOVED all those songs and within their genres is amongst my favorite songs.

I wouldn’t have watched this movie however without it being in the style of Legos. This direction was a beautiful decision for a broader appeal to the movie-going audience which already knows when coming into the theatre that the music will be amazing.

Piece by Piece tells the story of singer/songwriter AND record producer Pharrell Williams from his childhood in Virginia to his success in the music and fashion industry.

It’s a cute entertaining movie that’s also informative and powerful. Navigating the meanings behind the creation of certain songs during real-life events both on an individual level and global impact level.

I’ve personally not been a fan of the interview style which is why I appreciated having such a vibrant and entertaining style to watch while individuals spoke on screen.

Moments that stuck out to me were of course the incredible music being created and depicted visually onscreen. But also the storytelling elements of Pharrell growing up and achieving throughout his entire life to now. It was both eye-opening and informative how much he’s done and the impact on our lives he’s had even if we didn’t know in the moment.

Despite having moments I found myself a little bored. Which mostly came from the movie getting started within the first 30 minutes. I came away enjoying this movie and giving it a good score of 7/10.

I appreciated listening and discovering the story behind Pharrell Williams and encourage others to check out Piece by Piece at your local theatre.

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Saturday Night “Review”

Release date: October 11, 2024 (USA)

Director: Jason Reitman

Distributed by: Universal Pictures, Sony Pictures Releasing

Budget: $25–30 million

Cinematography: Eric Steelberg

Music by: Jon Batiste

Hello everyone and welcome to this weeks batch of “Reviews” starting with Saturday Night and followed by Piece by Piece.

I include the second movie as I’ll make the point twice that the origins of these movies kind of go over my head. So with that caveat I’ll dive into this “Review”.

You’re 90 minutes away from going live on your first live episode ever and the show still can’t be fully explained or finalized. What more could go wrong with an hour and a half to fill with 3 hours of potential content and the suites funding this thing are betting against you.

Welcome to Saturday Night the movie leading up to the very first episode of SNL which I’ve only seen 1 episode for which was solely for dogecoin meme.

Ready or Not: 11:30 p.m. hits, and we’re going live no matter what is shown on screen or about preparedness. To sum this film up I’d have to say “Entertaining”. Although I had no idea who these real-life people were and the sketches being rehearsed I was entertained throughout this movie.

A good movie that kept me wanting more and honestly by 11:30pm came around and the show went live I wanted to see another hour and a half of what’s to come on the live episode. Sadly there are only 10 minutes roughly of that first episode but for those that watched it live back in the day, will have a blast seeing how it all came to be within this feature.

Stand-out actors for me personally were Cory Michael Smith playing the character Chevy Chase. I kept telling myself during the film he looked like Riddler from the show Gotham, of which I can confirm was true :D.

In addition to Gabriel LaBelle playing the character Lorne Michaels whom I thought they kept calling John. His timing on the jokes and range of comedy was brilliant.

Lastly of my top 3 standout actors was Lamorne Morris playing the character Garrett Morris which was totally hilarious and brought a lot of impact and meaning behind his scenes. Calling out the times for how certain decisions and treatments wouldn’t and shouldn’t be allowed in today’s era.

I’d place Saturday Night at a 7.5/10. Loved how the film came together and had a good time. Wouldn’t complain about watching it again however most likely won’t.

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Joker: Folie à Deux “Review”

Release date: October 4, 2024 (USA)

Director: Todd Phillips

Music by: Hildur Guðnadóttir

Distributed by: Warner Bros., Warner Bros. Pictures

Based on: Characters; by DC Comics

Budget: $190–200 million

Welcome to/back to Popped with an interesting “Review” for you all this evening. Looking at current scores across RT / IMDb / Metacritic & Google audience rating summary, this “review” will either resonate with you or be totally off the mark.

With that said I’ll cut to the point and work backwards for those still interested in hearing more on my personal experience with Joker’s sequel. I liked it! 8/10 I’d watch it again :O GASP! BOO’S? LAUGHTER from the back of the room.

Alright enough waffle, let’s begin the breakdown of how I came to like it within a manner of “Reviewing” this title.

“Review” Joker The Therapy Session – Begins

For the general public, this feature will not be enjoyed by them. You can clearly see that in the review scores. Maybe 20-30 minutes will be when people start to drop off. The key for me personally. Watch this movie as a psychology student who thoroughly enjoyed Arthur Fleck in the first Joker movie.

Doing this made the songs/music fit the story and I could see what the director intended to achieve with Joker: Folie à Deux. Although this movie would have worked for the general public without them. I totally get it despite getting harder to get through the songs in the second half.

I’m going to discuss moments without going into spoilers. If you’re attempting to avoid anything that could be considered a spoiler then maybe turn back now with my Key in mind.

Two fracturing movies are occurring or even being discovered along the way. One exists with the music and the other is viewed/witnessed. Those wanting the movie to be like the first film will want the latter. While a select few will go my path or the path of enjoying musical numbers. I used the cover picture on purpose to capture the polarizing responses to this sequel with this point.

*Question Time*

Curious questions midway through this “Review” – Do you enjoy my rating system with 7 being that of a good watch and 8 being I’d watch the movie again? Working on a clarity system for 2025 and onwards :D.

There were moments when I got genuine goosebumps and loved this feature. This is before momentum slows and requires building back up to more moments of greatness.

Some fans don’t understand Lady Gaga’s role in this movie. I’ll leave it as.. an activator for Arthur and leave it there for after you’ve watched. Did you come to watch Joker or Arthur is another thing I’ll briefly mention. Those who come for Arthur will have a better experience than those coming for a Joker movie. That being said, for those interested in a Joker movie…hehehe catch you in the comments afterward *Joker Laugh*.

Out of all the songs I’d have to pick “The Joker Is Me” as my favorite.

There’s so much to this movie to break down and discuss but sadly people won’t be giving it a chance. That’s a true shame. Read the next part for potential spoiler if you’re curious.

*Potential Spoiler Discussion Point*

Depending on how you watch this sequel. This could very well be an origins story to the new DCU Joker ;). Love! To hear your thoughts on that. Did anyone watch the Gotham TV show? ;).

“Review” Session Wrap-up

I was back and forth on either a solid good one-time watch or placing it where I did with an 8/10. The awesome moments and continued exploration into Arthur’s mind were what kept me from going lower than a 7. The ending and cinema moments of greatness are what secured it in my 8/10’s and I’ll be looking forward to watching Joker: Folie à Deux many more times in the future awaiting the creation of the new DCU projects being currently cooked up by James Gunn.

Thank you all for taking the time to read this “Review” and for checking out Popped. Blog. My friend inquired earlier if I’d ever get into reviewing anime or shows. This is something I used to do on Podcasts some time ago.

Anyone interested in reading more “Reviews” on other media content like Manga, Anime, Shows etc. Maybe once a month I’ll record an episode combining the reviews as a recap for those interested in checking movies or media content on streaming after they’ve left the theatre or completed their season.

For those interested in Anime I’d strongly recommend checking out HiDive and watching Oshi No Ko & Made In Abyss. Each has 2 seasons and MIA has incredible movies.

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The Wild Robot “Review”

Release date: September 27, 2024 (USA)

Director: Chris Sanders

Distributed by: Universal Pictures

Adapted from: The Wild Robot

Budget: $78 million

Music by: Kris Bowers

While the trailers for Transformers One grew on me the more I watched it leading to the film’s release. The Wild Robot sadly had the opposite affect. Showing way to much of the movie leading to release even dropping a trailer 3 days before release.

Within 5 minutes of watching this movie, I removed my review cap and was locked into this adorable and emotional story. They have such loving characters and a beautifully written story. I’m excited to see what’s next for this series as it’s based on a 3 book series.

If Baymax was dumbed down for kids to enjoy by Disney. The Wild Robot has Roz, who combines a smart and engaging personality and dark adult humor which honestly captured the adults and kids in my theatre. I laughed out loud and cried a lot with how connected I got with these characters.

DreamWorks is honestly back and for the past couple of years, it seemed like Universal Animation was coming for Disney. DreamWorks may very well come in with such quality movies and stories to topple the castle. Super excited to see Shrek 5 and Bad Guys 2 😀

I won’t get deep into storylines and all however will include some shout-outs for this incredible feature.

Roz finds herself awakened within the wilderness looking for its customer to complete the requester’s objective. This leads to our characters coming together in a story that I wish came out for mothers day. The connection created between Roz and the possum family was priceless! Loved these characters literally all of them had so much personality it all came together for my locked-in 2024 best-animated feature and hopeful Oscar winner.

Loved it more than Inside Out 2 and recommend all checking this movie out. Bring tissues if you connect with characters like I do haha. Easy 9/10 and thus makes it into my top 10 of 2024.

Have you checked out The Wild Robot yet? On the sidelines? Let me know what you’re thinking in the comments. Thank you all for spending time with me on another Popped “Review” Next up should be Joker unless something unexpected pops up like Megalopolis?

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My Old Ass “Review”

Release date: September 13, 2024 (Canada)

Director: Megan Park

Distributed by: Amazon MGM Studios, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

Music by: Tyler Hilton; Jaco Caraco

Produced by: Tom Ackerley; Margot Robbie; Josey McNamara; Steven Rales

Production companies: Indian Paintbrush; LuckyChap Entertainment

If I could ask my older self one question, should I have watched this movie? The answer would have resulted in one less-viewed movie this year.

Let’s discuss…

Watched the trailer and ready for an exciting movie ahead? I was until an hour into the movie when the direction bored me, and then the film just…ends? Leaving me confused if more was to come but knowing it’s over and kind of felt like the movie was kind of ass. 6/10 If I’m being nice. Felt like an average slightly above-average movie.

So many plot points and story devices left unanswered which literally the trailer lures you in with. The main characters choices in the movie made no sense. Even trying to get behind her decisions they leave literally an entire plot and character out during this self-discovery. I’m not so much ranting but more disappointed that I watched this movie and wasted almost 2 hours after trailers to view this title.

Why does Amazon release this on the big screen while Wolfs by Apple gets placed on Apple TV :S lame. If they wanted to keep this movie short and concise they added SO MUCH fluff that was left unresolved.

Without going into spoilers this movie had a message to tell and only had content for it for about 20 minutes of the film. They pumped it up with the family, friends, weird mushroom storyline and left it all abruptly to sum up the main films focus.

I don’t know, a waste of time seems harsh but that ending was weak sauce. My Old ASS? This movie’s ASS! Catch it on streaming tbh am I going with a 3? Na it’s not a bad movie just average to above average at best.

I feel as if the trailer got me like it did so many with the Civil War movie trailer. Setting you up for one thing and delivering on another.

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The Substance “Review”

Release date: September 18, 2024 (USA)

Director: Coralie Fargeat

Distributed by: Mubi, Metropolitan Filmexport

Cinematography: Benjamin Kracun

Music by: Raffertie

Production companies: Working Title Films; Blacksmith

The Brief “Review”

Use this “Review” for those that don’t want to ruin their appetite before devouring the candy that’s going to be presented to them. Healthy substance in the lack of substance holding back the onion from being peeled? What does all that mean?

Let’s begin!

I went into this film blind to only seeing the above poster. With a perfect time slot at the theatre I went to check out this movie which upon reflection could very well be my favorite new horror movie in quite some time.

I call it – The Everything Everywhere All At Once Candy Corn? Confused? So am I. Let’s keep it brief. It’s not for everyone but for those that enjoy this. It’ll be staying with your horror-loving self for years to come. It’s going into my top 10 movies of the year and I’ll even lock in an Oscar nomination while we’re at it.

Want some more?

If Everything Everywhere All At Once was a horror movie on society’s creation of individuals in the spotlight. By the way, the movie I’m referencing was my favorite movie of the year that it was released. 9/10 – Cinema

The “More” In-depth “Review”

The opening of this movie focused on an egg being injected and splitting into two, which was the most fabulous and bizarre experience entering a movie. I praise how brilliant it was coming out at the end. Most surreal and clever use of cinematography that just captivated me from the start.

What’s this movie about without spoilers and giving too much away? It’s your 50th birthday and after being in the spotlight for so many dozens of years you’ve noticed those around you have grown tired of what’s being offered and seek for a replacement. Someone younger and “Hotter” to be the eye candy going into future years to come.

Well, good news! I have the substance of your answer. So impactful you’ll birth yourself a younger one.

Loved the chapter-like story introducing Elizabeth Sparkle and introducing the layers of this tale forever being peeled back revealing so many different layers that the creativity was insane how deep the writing and creativity went.

The Substance is VERY R Rated and I’d recommend you be comfortable with your party members that you’re watching this title with. You’ll get to know ALL about these characters on an up-close and personal level. Spotlighted on and more in the frame than any other movie currently out at Theatres.

I mentioned it above but I’d lock in my Oscar nomination on this title. The category that instantly jumps out is that of the editing and sound effects/music. I’d have to display the categories before me to truly pick but I’d lock this title in for nomination for sure.

Remember you are one! This movie was horror done smart and I freaking loved it! It’s not for everyone. But those that enjoy cinema and horror can truly get to sit back and enjoy this combination as something new and horrifying in so many ways. The eye of beauty and the beholder of such envision can only come from within when faced with such hatred and ugliness in the world.

The onion layers will speak for itself. Will it affect you as you dive deeper in? Only by watching The Substance will you be able to tell. I was back and forth between a 8.5 and a 9 but the ending and the bow tie that I’m all about. I went with a fucking love it 9/10. Lets freaking GO! With that we have 2 8.5’s remaining on the top 10 of 2024 and I’m excited to see how this list wraps up going into November before we finalize the entries in order by end of December.

Thank you all for reading this “Review” of The Substance. Did you check this title out? Think I’m crazy for comparing it to Everything Everywhere All At Once? Then I’d love to hear in the comments section. This has been Prowen with another solid batch of Popped! “Reviews”.

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The 4:30 Movie “Review”

Release date: September 13, 2024 (USA)

Director: Kevin Smith

Distributed by: Saban Capital Group

Produced by: Joshua Bachove; Liz Destro; Jordan Monsanto

Production companies: Destro Films; SMODCO

Didn’t even know this movie existed until yesterday as I saw there’s a 4:30pm showing of a movie called The 4:30 Movie. I had to check it out. Directed and Edited by Kevin Smith this movie was such a joy to watch.

The start of this movie hit the period perfectly on the head and I was in love. The young relationship in this movie was FU*^ING CUTE AF AND ADORABLE! I loved the performance by the actors Siena Agudong, who played Melody Barnegat, and Austin Zajur, who played Brian David. Loved them loved them loved them.

Brian’s friends were also greatly cast and had a lot of fun. This coming-of-age movie was such a delight. The music was spot on. Writing is emotional and funny. I honestly loved the beginning of this film. I was thinking of buying the Blu-Ray. Sadly the middle was rather mid when Melody and Brian’s friendship was not on screen and the brotherhood was let loose in a movie theatre.

Some entertaining cameos for those that have followed Kevin Smith’s career but had a bit of a lull never swooping below an 8 but pendulum between an 8 and 9. With a solid beginning and a lovely ending, I would call this a great movie at an 8/10. Loved it! Would totally watch this again and recommend others give this a watch at 4:30pm at the movies or catch it streaming down the road.

Increasing the number of movies I watch in a year, results in catching movies like this that either release out of nowhere or so I can catch delightful movies that I may have skipped otherwise. Stay till the end of the credits for some bonus footage, bloopers if you will? Or is it? 😉

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Speak No Evil “Review”

Release date: September 13, 2024 (USA)

Director: James Watkins

Distributed by: Universal Pictures

Based on: Speak No Evil; by: Christian Tafdrup; Mads Tafdrup

Budget: $15 million

Music by: Danny Bensi; Saunder Jurriaans

The cast of the movie does an excellent job throughout this feature.

I honestly fell in love with these couples and the friendships created at the beginning of this film. Watched the trailer? Still plenty of surprises in store despite clueing you in to something going on. Haven’t seen the trailer? No worries, nothing will be spoiled here even from the previous line and the pictures used.

A similar pacing to that of blink twice which was a good film and worth checking out. I enjoyed the slower setup with Speak No Evil over Blink Twice as I loved the characters. James McAvoy is SOLID and brings out so much emotion from all the cast from the children Ant & Agnes played by Dan Hough & Alix West Lefler along with the Agnes’s parents played by Scoot McNairy & Mackenzie Davis. Last but not least the partner of McAvoy’s character (Paddy) Ciara played by Aisling Franciosi. Solid performances and without going into spoilers, had me experiencing many sets of emotions throughout.

Blum house & Universal have another solid good film on their hands and I’m excited as we step ever closer to Black Phone 2 coming next October to (Fingers Crossed) to see the world that their developing into a universe of Blum house horror. Universal Horror Nights will either have an amazing set of mazes next year or 2026 will be the reveal of what’s to come for Blum house Universe.

I’m so pumped and excited to hear what you all thought of this title. M3GAN 2.0 releases next year along with Black Phone 2 among a couple of other titles in 2025 which ends the year with Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 in December.

I’d give Speak No Evil an 8/10 for doing such a great job. An American psychological thriller film that I’ll look forward to returning to one day. Maybe it’s time to checkout the original 2022 Danish Film that this remakes on.

Thank you all for your time coming by for another Popped “Review” and I’ll see you in the next batch with Transformers One which I’m very excited to Watch…..More on that during the “Review”.

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Cuckoo “Review”

Release date: August 9, 2024 (USA)

Director: Tilman Singer

Distributed by: Neon, Weltkino Filmverleih

Budget: $7 million

Music by: Simon Waskow

Produced by: Markus Halberschmidt; Josh Rosenbaum; Maria Tsigka; Ken Kao; Thor Bradwell

WOW! Just seeing this cost 7Mill compared to Borderlands 100+ Mill is insane. This is a great film straight up. Great characters, excellent suspense and actually an evil that is scary.

Going to be vague to allow mystery for your viewing experience. No spoilers here. One of my fave Neon movies in quite some time.

Little about the story setup: Seventeen-year-old Gretchen reluctantly leaves America to live with her father at a resort in the German Alps.

Some unsettling scenes, twisted and creepy characters mixed with great writing. Character growth and development. It was such a great breath of fresh air after watching Borderlands.

Plagued by strange noises and bloody visions this resort has some deep layers to pull back truly Alice in wonder land style with how deep does this rabbit hole go.

It’s been a minute that I’ve felt uneasy and a little scared in a horror movie. I’m happy this film brings that feeling back and gets an almost perfected batch of popped popcorn in horror granted to this feature. I was close to giving this a 9/10 however some flaws weakening the end with such a strong beginning and middle. I dropped it down to a 8.5/10 as it ends solidly despite a slight hiccup.

Save your Borderlands money and go watch Cuckoo. Thanks for coming by Popped for your movie “Reviews” and I’ll see you again real soon with Alien.

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