Zac03

Beautiful cinematography, wonderful acting, and a delightful, atmospheric splendor of a movie; a romance in full bloom. I was enchanted and it's a movie that I will not forget too soon. There's no illusion here. This is the real deal.

A haunting, eerie and touching film, which dares to leave plenty to unravel after viewing.

The Sixth Sense is among the greatest writer-directorial debuts in cinema history, building chilling suspense while simultaneously possessing a plethora of genuine heart. When it comes to storytelling, The Sixth Sense really shows Shyamalan drawing inspiration from Hitchcock, and it works to near-perfection. It’s a slow-building, character-driven thriller that leads the audience down the same path of discovery and tense fright that is experienced by those on screen. A great deal of the exposition is non-verbal, relying instead on subtle visual clues and clever foreshadowing that make for a much more personal, intellectual viewing experience. Shyamalan trusts his audience and it’s always so refreshing to see a film like this. This splendid pacing is pulled off thanks to fantastic editing and direction that always aligns the audiences' perspective with that of the characters. The spine-tingling score from James Newton Howard and gripping, raw dialogue further anchor the narrative in reality and it **** me in. I was hooked from the opening scene and was deeply invested in the personal struggles of these characters. This is a rich, jet black study of death and the macabre, the dangers of psychological trauma and isolation, the raw power behind human regret and reconciliation, and how all the aforementioned thematic devices can influence one another in life. It really is a carefully-constructed, laser-focused achievement in cinematic storytelling, with a stunning collection of lead performances (especially from that of young Haley Joel Osment). Indeed, with "The Sixth Sense," it's all about the journey. For me, the destination, seems like a footnote in comparison to all the beauty at hand throughout this film.

I enjoyed this very well-made thriller, thanks to Liam Neeson, an excellent supporting cast, a very good, complex script (a real mystery), and also very good, clear direction. Complex and convincing, the film moved along without being overly brutal and sadistic. This is a thriller that gives a real feeling of horror, without being too graphic, along with a genuine feeling of sadness and sympathy for Scudder, the main character, but also for the victims. It really doesn't make you think too hard but it still has some shock value. This movie is certainly one of the underrated 2014 films.

David Fincher's return to serial killer territory is a welcome one, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is an excellent crime thriller and one of the best films of 2011. The modern day master of tension crafts an abrasive yet engaging movie, which tells the popular murder mystery story in an eclectic way. It can be considered an improvement from the Swedish version thanks to intriguing storytelling, the more detailed focus on the investigation and the portrayal of some characters. The crafts in this film were also top notch from its atmospheric score to its pulp film editing. Rooney Mara gives an edgy performance as Lisbeth Salander and I've always had an issue with Blomkvist's character but Daniel Craig did a great job portraying him in this adaptation.

A work of genius in storytelling by David Fincher in what is a phenomenal adaption of the killings of the Zodiac killer. Clever casting for the lead roles leads to some outstanding performances by Jake Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr. and Mark Ruffalo. The film itself is long, some might say to long but the every detail, big and small is so precise and is key to Fincher conveying his take on events and also in showing the effects the Zodiac has on each character. But don't let how long the film is put you off because its so compelling and intense yet intriguing that it keeps you following the story and wanting to see what's going to happen next. Of course the main point of story is based on the murders of the Zodiac killer but the main theme is how the killings affect each character and gradually wares them down with initially, the lack evidence to identify a suspect and then later to make a proper conviction. Downey dazzles as a journalist investigating the murders that brings him new found popularity which leads him down the drugs route due to the frustration and inability to find the man responsible, Ruffalo is is fantastic form and delivers a majestic performance as a cop tasked with finding the Zodiac, Gyllenhaal is the surprise of the show for me, his portrayal of a strange and peculiar yet inspiring cartoonist, Robert, is tremendous, but Fincher's choice in John Carroll Lynch as Arthur Leigh Allen was genius as his depiction of the prime suspect is fabulously creepy and encapsulates the reason why he is the prime suspect to perfection. All in all, Zodiac is a truly exceptional piece of filmmaking and something that you simply cannot afford to miss out on.

Exceptional adaptation of the screen of Hunter S. Thompson's masterpiece autobiographic novel. This movie is nothing less than a work of art, and in my opinion is Johnny Depp's best film, no questions asked. Buy the ticket, take the ride.

Source Code is a great sci-fi movie which explores travels on time and parallels realities through a very simple premise, but never ceasing to be puzzling and intriguing. The scriptwriter, Ben Ripley, doesn't make many ceremonies to quickly explore the pretext of the repetition of the narrative, discovering the mechanisms of the pump or by placing the characters off the train. Jake Gyllenhaal is the shining star once again, with a rather exceptional performance. Some parallel actions, such as the gun, end up having less potential, but they don't undermine the progress of the narrative. The ending feels lacklustre, that needed to deliver a happy ending to leave the viewer satisfied at the end, which is not always necessary. It is still an amazing film, engaging, dynamic and efficient.

Suspension of disbelief should be an advisory caution when viewing 'Nightcrawler'. However, as long as one can over look the story's obvious absurdities it can be enjoyed as a compelling and superior thriller. Jake Gyllenhaal is superb as the sociopath who opportunistically decides to make a living by filming the misfortunes, injuries and death throes of others, which he then sells to TV. His total disdain for people and human life sets no bounds and this, in turn, leads him to TV news producer Renee Russo. She is fantastic as an ageing last chance producer who becomes entangled in his web. The scenes between them both literally crackle with there own kind of tension and are excellently written. The movie, mainly shot at night, makes excellent use of its L.A. locations, and a couple of set pieces (a home invasion and a restaurant shoot out) are outstanding and demonstrate first rate examples of how to create sustained tension. Flying under the radar, this is a film not to be missed.

All creative hands are at the top of their form in “The Silence of the Lambs,” a mesmerizing thriller that will grip audiences from first scene to last and generate solid B.O. Skillful adaptation of Thomas Harris’ bestseller intelligently wallows in the fascination for aberrant psychology and perverse evil, delivering the goods in a way that should electrify critics and mainstream audiences. There is not a false note nor an extraneous moment as he establishes a vise-like hold almost immediately and doesn’t let up even through the chilling final shot. In the second half of “Something Wild,” Demme demonstrated a marked talent for rough suspense, something he sustains for two hours here. In a strong performance, Foster fully registers the inner strength her character must summon up to meet the challenges and occasional humiliations her tough assignment entails. Cast against type as a reserved man in glasses and a suit, Scott Glenn is a very agreeable surprise as the FBI agent who takes a chance by putting his young charge on the case. The juiciest part is Hopkins,’ and he makes the most of it. Helped by some highly dramatic lighting, actor makes the role the personification of brilliant, hypnotic evil, and the screen jolts with electricity whenever he is on. This is, without doubt, his most effective film appearance to date. From the huge hall in which Lecter is eerily caged at one point to the dingy rooms of Buffalo Bill’s house, Kristi Zea’s production design is critical to the picture’s mood. Editor Craig McKay keeps doesn’t let a frame stay on too long, and Howard Shore’s rather traditional score outstandingly amplifies the tension and psychological mystery.

An almost perfect rendering of the novel by Anthony Burgess. Kubrick's use of classical music somehow insulates the viewer from the true horror of the violence. The set and costume design is a visual feast. Kubrick never ceases to amaze!

The Shining is one of the most recognizable, timeless, and iconic horror masterpieces that has ever been filmed. It absolutely deserves its place in history. This is just a really scary, really enjoyable movie. It is extremely well made, and the atmosphere and tension driven by the psychological horror is just pure Kubrik. This is a Halloween must-watch.

The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be, you have to give a lot of credit to Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga playing the Warrens. The lack of James Wan in the director's chair was very noticeable. At least it concludes well, in my opinion, the main saga (trilogy).

"The Lighthouse" is a stunning psychological thriller with beautiful cinematography and haunting performances. Director Robert Eggers uses a simple premise to create an engrossing and memorable viewing experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I liked aspects of his previous film, "The Witch," but I found the third act underwhelming. "The Lighthouse" is a vast improvement - and a great example of how to get a horror movie right. Willem Dafoe, who's always good, does an amazing job. Having been familiar with Robert Pattinson only from his unremarkable turn as Edward Cullen, I was pleasantly surprised by his intense but complicated performance. The music, sound design, and visuals of "The Lighthouse" are captivating. However I found a few scenes poorly lit, and Willem Dafoe's dialogue is difficult to understand due to the thickness of his sailor dialect. But despite a few problems here and there, "The Lighthouse" is a powerful tale of insanity and isolation.

The Matrix is a movie classic. This is a rather timeless film, mainly due to its effects, which look absolutely breathtaking, and at the same time it is a film from the 90s. The story is excellent and contains several legendary scenes. The action scenes are also excellent and the soundtrack doesn't even need to be explained how masterful it is. This is a MUST-SEE movie.

Despite its frustratingly disappointing ending, "Twelve Monkeys" still holds itself up with some solid twists and aesthetic brilliance all throughout.

A mostly mediocre film with some incredible performances. The plot itself tugs at heart strings a tad too much but it's okay since the ending and acting are downright fantastic. Gyllenhall and Jackman are incredible and frankly its surprising to see the lack of love for them in this awards season. Even when the scene seems trite and overwrought with melodrama these two, neigh, the cast seems to ground it with force and believability unlike any other performance this year. The ending too is handled marvelously, making a perfect balancing act between meaningful and happy go lucky.

The Prestige is a complex maze filled with countless twists and turns. Fortunately, the entire crew masterfully guides us away from all its dead ends through its great storyline, deep characters and immersive acting to get into its satisfying conclusion.

A Cure for Wellness may be one of the most underrated movies ever. There is a big mystery surrounding what's been happening at the sanitarium where the movie takes place, and unraveling it and piecing it all together is a big part of what makes watching it enjoyable. Not everything that happens in the movie is simply laid out and explained, though the important mystery elements are (if you can keep up with the clues that are given). The acting is phenomenal and the soundtrack builds perfect atmospheric tension. The visual effects are also fantastic and make you really connect with the protagonist through the ups and downs of the adventure. Overall this may be a movie with some minor plotholes, but the compelling original story and top-tier production make this movie a must-see for fans of the mystery thriller genre. Hollywood needs to stop shovelling out sequels and take some notes from Gore Verbinski.

I have mixed feelings toward this movie. Looper was well edited, and suspenseful. The acting was solid, and I enjoyed the futuristic/dystopian world they created. The music fit the mood perfectly, the cinematography was also great. The problems start with the movie's plot. There are some plot holes and inconsistencies in the story, because the way time traveling was portrayed. It was impossible even on a theoretical level. I wish they didn't ruin up the time travel, because that part was meant to be a key element, but it just made the plot confusing and senseless at some points. Other than that, the movie was quite well made.

The Butterfly Effect, is based on the theory that for every decision we make, an equal and opposite reaction occurs in another dimension. In this film, Ashton Kutcher's/Logan Lerman's character finds a way to enter these dimensions and make the opposite choice. This movie was so good, because the possibilities are endless. In The Butterfly Effect, Kutcher shows that he is versatile actor and can do much more than just romantic comedy. This movie is a Sci-Fi lovers dream and a can't miss film!

A film that left me in shock multiple times during my viewing, Eyes Wide Shut is a special film and a great way to end the career of one of the best directors of all-time, Stanley Kubrick. As brilliant as all of his preceding work, Eyes Wide Shut is a dreamlike film that relies on intense and unsettling atmosphere for thrills to great effect. I truly have little idea about what went on, other than the obvious basics and some ways beyond that, but this one is truly a unique experience. Tom Cruise is great, as is Sydney Pollack. Nicole Kidman is not as good as the rest of the cast, but she is not bad either. Packed to the brims with subtleties and symbols, this one strikes me as one that I need to watch again down the line, but based on just one viewing, I can already say that I like this film. Intense, brilliant, thrilling, and undeniably erotic, Eyes Wide Shut is a film that truly messes with your head and enjoys doing so.

Predestination is unique, compelling, and truly captivating science fiction that throws you for a loop from beginning to end. Ethan Hawke and Sarah Snook are magnetizing in this odd science fiction/fantasy film that is a time travel movie, but uses it in incredibly unique fashion that constantly leaves you guessing. That being said, the entire film is a bit of a trip and likely contradicts itself (as most time travel movies do), but is a truly enthralling flick that wraps you up in its world and does not let go until the very end. All together, Predestination is an incredibly thought provoking film that keeps you guessing and trying to put together its crazy puzzle.

The Game is a smart, thrilling, and completely underrated movie that should be more renown than it is. The very thought through "The Game" is creepy and unexpecting with thrills and near death experiences at almost every corner. The acting is impeccable; this is one of Michael Douglas's best roles. The Game takes the viewer through a world where nothing is certain, and executes it quite well. Whether if it's the action, the thrill, the mystery, or even the drama, The Game is guaranteed to give you an exceptional viewing experience. The idea behind this movie was well-thought and portrayed expertly, along with superb acting. The Game, in my opinion, is a must-see.

A film that can really hit you in an enticing and fascinating way. If you think that this film is serious, you got it all wrong. A ride with the best actors into a dark tragedy that is somehow morbidly charming. The most significant film that can really make you amazed in many ways. Finishing this great work with one of the best conclusions ever, leaves you mind blown. What also makes this film special is the main character, after all, doesn't 'solve' the problem like other films. It was a cinematic experience, and frankly speaking, it took me a while to confirm that this is one of the best films I've ever seen so far.

Interstellar is visually stunning, not only in Space but on Earth as well. On top of that Hans Zimmer's score is absolutely exceptional and one of my all time favourites. This is a must see movie, on the biggest screen with the best sound possible. It is humanizing, grounded, yet ambitious and exceptional in almost every way.

Inception can be summed up in one word, exceptional. The way in which the storyline is structured is very impressive and the casting has been carefully thought through which is something most blockbuster films have failed to accomplish in recent years. Page's performance as Ariadne is debatable but nothing worth 'over-ranting' about. The CGI in the movie is magnificent but isn't over done, making it very appropriate and entertaining when used. One thing is for certain and that is that Nolan has definitely brought the best out of the actors in Inception, particular Tom Hardy who plays the role of Eames near enough pitch perfect. With a combination of stars, effects, performances, action, strong narrative & superb direction, it's hard to pick out any major faults with Inception. A must, must see.

A true classic, with one of the most brilliant climaxes in the history of film, The Usual Suspects will not fail to make your head spin. You have everything in this movie. Solid cast. Wonderful script. Great camera work. A true gem. With Kevin Spacey leading the pack in his Academy Award winning performance, the acting in this film is very believable, and powerful. Your eyes will be glued to the film from the moment it begins, to the moment when your jaw hits the floor, in the end. I would highly recommend this film to anyone and everyone who considers themselves a fan of movies. This is simply a must-see.

All I can say is: I was mindf***ed. Great acting, creepy atmosphere, and incredible twists. It all culminates in such a terrific climax that my mind reeled. If you appreciate movies, see Donnie Darko.

Shutter Island holds up. 10 years after its release, I still find new intricate details in almost every frame of the film. It's hard to make a mystery/thriller movie that is so engaging, and remains engaging even after you watch the movie once and know the twist. The musical score to this film is absolutely haunting. Shutter Island is gruesome. It's dark. It's scary. It's powerful, and it has something to say. One of Scorsese and DiCaprio's best. This is a must-see film.

What a movie. Exceptionally well made on such a low budget, but yet causes immense visceral feelings in all that will watch it.

Exceptional. No movie has ever played with my emotions more than this movie or any movie has or will again. Wow.