THE GUILTY (Video Release USA 2021)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.6|5.0 Starsìììì 

The Guilty—intense—allows a deep look into Jake Gyllenhaal’s ability to access the more emotional side of acting. He does a terrific job in his role as a 911 operator. WOW! He takes his audience on a roller coaster ride that keeps the viewer glued to the storyline wondering what will happen next. The movie is one of Director Antoine Fuqua’s  (Training Day) better films. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline 

A 911 operator finds himself between two severe crises…one that affects his world and one that affects a family outside his own. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Antoine Fuqua for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Jake Gyllenhaal, Riva Marker, David Litvak, Gary Walters, David Haring, Michel Litvak, Svetlana Metkina, Antoine Fuqua, Scott Greenberg, and Kat Samick for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Joe Baylor (Jake Gyllenhaal), Denise Wade (Cristina Vidal), and Manny (Adrian Martinez). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. A real treat for Jake Gyllenhaal fans. Every scene is thrilling, tense, and keeps interest. 

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

GODS OF EGYPT (Theatrical Release USA 2016)

 Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.7|5.0 Starsììì 

Gods of Egypt has a lot happening in its storyline which makes it a more complicated, sit-down and watch movie than other films that dare tackle the ancient mythologies. The film uses its 2 hours and 7 minutes well. While it accesses the talents of both new and seasoned actors, it does not leave its audience feeling as if the subject matter is out of reach or too large to tackle partially due to its wise choice of keeping humans deeply engaged with the gods from beginning to end. The story is relatable and has a terrific (and welcome) conclusion. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline 

The gods of Egypt interact with human beings. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Alex Proyas for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Alex Proyas and Basil Iwanyk for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Horus (Nikoaj Coster-Waldau), Set (Gerard Butler), Bek (Brenton Thwaites), Thoth (Chadwick Boseman), Hathor (Elodie Yung), Zaya (Courtney Eaton), Ra (Geoffrey Rush), Urshu (Rufus Sewell), and Osiris (Bryan Brown). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. Among the movies that have endeavored to capture the immensity of old-world mythological figures, such as the 2010 movie Clash of the Titans, this film stands a bit above the average despite the fact that the film’s special effects do not match the technology available for 2016, the year of production. The costuming, staging, and interesting colorization effects are nicely done. 

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

THE HUNTER (Theatrical Release USA 1980)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.1|5.0 Starsìììì 

The Hunter—based on a true story—introduces the audience to the life of bounty hunters. While the movie presents itself as a B-grade movie, there is no lack of action, outstandingly original stunt work, and acting skill throughout the movie. One gains deep appreciation for Steve McQueen’s command of the big screen and his ability to pull personality out of his assigned character. This is an older watch that has not lost its ability to entertain.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline 

A bounty hunter works to earn a living. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Buzz Kulick for directing effort. Thank you to Producer Mort Engelberg for making the film possible. Cast/characters include: Papa Thorson (Steve McQueen), Ritchie Blumenthal (Eli Wallach), Dotty Thorson (Kathryn Harrold), Tommy Price (LeVar Burton), Sheriff Strong (Ben Johnson), Police Captain Spota (Richard Venture), Rocco Mason (Tracey Walter), Anthony Bernardo (Thomas Rosales Jr.), Winston Blue (Theodore Wilson), Luke Branch (Ray Bickel), Matthew Branch (Bobby Bass), and Billie Joe (Karl Schueneman). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. The movie not only appeals to Steve McQueen fans but serves as a terrific introduction for newbies not familiar with this actor. The movie plays on the level of a good Chuck Norris or Steven Segal film. 

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

PIXELS (Theatrical Release USA 2015)

 Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.0|5.0 Starsìììì 

Pixels—highly creative—delivers WOW! entertainment with its well-grounded story and the comedic antics of Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Josh Gad, and Peter Dinklage. The arcade game concept is great and will bring back many good memories for persons who have played at arcade parlors or had versions of Pac Man/Donkey Kong in their home gaming libraries. Don’t miss this movie. It deserves its watch.

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images

Storyline 

This science fiction drama film is about an invasion of aliens in the guise of pixels from out-of-date arcade games into earth. 

Additional Thank 

Thank you to Director Chris Columbus for directing effort.  Thank you to Producers Adam Sandler, Chris Columbus, Mark Radcliffe, and Allen Covert for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Sam Brenner (Adam Sandler), Young Brenner (Anthony Ippolito), Chewie Cooper (Kevin James), Young Cooper (Jared Riley), Lieutenant Colonel Violet van Patten), Eddie Plant (Peter Dinklage), Young Eddie (Andrew Bambridge), Ludlow Lamonsoff (Josh Gad), Young Ludlow (Jacob Shinder), and Admiral James Porter (Brian Cox). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. Adam Sandler pulls off a good, creative story for the adult audience. 

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

THE TRAP (Theatrical Release USA 1946)

 Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.7|5.0 Starsììì

The Trap—simple, black and white movie—lacks the noise, high color, and intensity of pace of current films but serves up a surprisingly refreshing piece of entertainment. The script obviously directs the flow of the scenes and their final outcomes, but still manages to satisfy the mystery fan. This movie is Sidney Toler’s last Charlie Chan film. The portrayal is easy-on-the-mind—peaceful yet quietly engaging. For the younger audience it is a good introduction to Charlie Chan films. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images

Storyline 

This mystery drama film is about Charlie Chan solving a murder mystery in Malibu, California. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Howard Bretherton for directing effort. Thank you to Monogram Pictures for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Charlie Chan (Sidney Toler), Jimmy (Victor Sen Yung), Birmingham Brown (Mantan Moreland), Adelaide Brandt (Tanis Chandler), Rick Daniels (Larry Blake), Sergeant Reynolds (Kirk Alyn), Clementine (Rita Quigley), Marcia (Anne Nagel), Ruby (Helen Gerald), Cole King (Howard Negley), Mrs. Thorn (Lois Austin), San Toy (Barbara Jean Wong), Miss Weebles (Minerva Urecal), Madge Mudge (Margaret Brayton), Winifred (Bettie Best), Lois (Jan Bryant), and Doc Brandt (Walden Boyle). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. Even though this is an older, low budget film, it still manages to hold interest and earns its watch. 

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

WAR OF THE WORLDS (Theatrical Release USA 2005)

 Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.2|5.0 Starsìììì 

War of the Worlds—much better film than the original 1953 movie of the same name. The special effects are great, the best part of the movie. Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, and Justin Chatwin make a very good casting team. The supporting cast seamlessly supports the three lead actors. This WOW! Spielberg movie is completely watchable and deserves a place in the family home video library. 

Movie Poster Courtesy of Google Images

Storyline 

This science fiction drama film is about an invasion of aliens into earth. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Steven Spielberg for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Kathleen Kennedy and Colin Wilson for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Ray Ferrier (Tom Cruise), Rachel Ferrier (Dakota Fanning), Robbie Ferrier (Justin Chatwin), Mary Ann Ferrier (Miranda Otto), Harlan Ogilvy (Tim Robbins), Vincent (Rick Gonzalez), Julio (Yul Vázquez), and Manny the Mechanic (Lenny Venito). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. This is a keeper for the sci-fi audience. It’s great to see Tom Cruise work

ing with Steven Spielberg again since Minority Report. The movie makes a good addition to the home video library. 

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

MONTFORD: THE CHICKASAW RANCHER (All-Media Release USA 2021)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.4|5.0 Starsìììì

Montford: The Chickasaw Rancher—soars in quality of presentation—tells a true story that few people know and need to be informed about. The storyline rests solidly on a life outstandingly lived and well-used during and after the Civil War period. It is about living life as a force for good and making a difference within the community in which one lives. A wonderful watch from beginning to end. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images

Storyline 

A man establishes an empire out of cattle ranching. 

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Nathan Frankowski for directing effort. Thank you to Executive P Robyn Elliott for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Montford T. Johnson (Martin Sensmeier), Boggy Johnson (Dermot Mulroney), Holden (Tommy Flanagan), Sergeant Richter (James Landry Hebert), Jack Brown (Denim Richards), Rising Wolf (Tatanka Means), Lieutenant Pratt (Mackenzie Astin), Mary Elizabeth Johnson (Grace Montie), Michael Campbell (Caleb Martin), Adelaide Campbell (Rebeckah Boykin), and Granny Vicey (Casey Camp-Horinek). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. Great cinematography coupled with outstanding landscape enhance the storyline. More than worth watching.  Great work for Director Nathan Frankowski.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

SELF/LESS (Theatrical Release USA 2015)

 Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.3|5.0 Starsìììì 

Self/Less—WOW! movie—rides on a strong wave of both mystery and drama. Ben Kingsley seems an odd pick for this story and then twists into the only pick for the story from its beginning to its end. The switch to Ryan Reynolds is a wonderfully surprising twist that prompts a concluding twist that is completely unexpected, but greatly appreciated. The film ends with an unusual and great twist that defies biological expectation. The movie completely involves the intellect and serves as a perfect watch for the adult audience. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline 

A man transfers his soul into another body to extend his life expectancy. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Tarsem Singh for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Ram Bergman, James D. Stern, and Peter Schlessel for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Damian Hale (Ryan Reynolds), Damian Hale (Ben Kingsley), Madeline Bitwell (Natalie Martinez), Dr. Jensen (Matthew Goode), Anton (Derek Luke), Martin O’Neill (Victor Garber), Judy O’Neill (Melora Hardin), Claire Hale (Michelle Dockery), Carl (Sam Page), and Anton 2 (Brendan McCarthy). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. Put this movie on the list of great entertainment; add it to the home video library.  It self-recommends itself as a ‘put it on the map’, completely mind-engaging film. Great entertainment value. 

Ben Meyers

MARMADUKE (Video Release USA 2022)

 Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.6|5.0 Starsììì 

Marmaduke—great concept, but from concept to script it loses elements of drama and comedy that are not completely plumbed. The 2010 Marmaduke is better for a feel of what audiences may be looking for in a Marmaduke story. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline 

Marmaduke takes training lessons. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Mark A.Z. Dippé for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Mark A.Z. Dippé, Dan Chuba, and Simon Crowe for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Great Dane Marmaduke (Pete Davidson), Zeus (J. K. Simmons), Phil Winslow (David Koechner), Barbara Winslow (Erin Fitzgerald), Dottie Winslow (Julie Nathanson), Billy Winslow (Terri Douglas), EntertainMutt (Mary Hart), Shantelle (Shelby Young), King Tut (Stephen Stanton), and Henri (Andrew Morgado). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Maybe. The movie may work more for children than adults. 

Ben Meyers

HULK (Theatrical Release USA 2003)

 Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.7|5.0 Starsììì 

Hulk—good concept—uses a combination of motion capture and live casting to tell its story. For a technology that, at the time of this review, is 19-years old, it lost none of its ability to create realistic appeal in this movie. The casting in this film seems to need tweaking. Eric Bana seems a little soft for Bruce Banner compared to his animated, rough Hulk character while Sam Elliott seems a little rough for the softer character of Ross. The movie runs at the average level. Watch for the sweet cameo appearances of both Lou Ferrigno and Marvel comic book writer Stan Lee.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia 

Storyline 

A father and son share mutant DNA. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Ang Lee for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Avi Arad, Larry Franco, Gale Anne Hurd, and James Schamus for making the film possible. Characters/cast include:  Bruce Banner/Hulk (Eric Bana), Young Bruce Banner (Michael and David Kronenberg), Teenage Bruce Banner (Mike Erwin), Betty Ross (Jennifer Connelly), Young Betty Ross (Rhiannon Wryn), Thaddeus Ross (Sam Elliott), Young Thaddeus Ross (Todd Tesen), Glenn Talbot (Josh Lucas), David Banner (Nick Nolte), Young David Banner (Paul Kersey), and Edith Banner (Cara Buono). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Maybe. The film particularly suits Hulk comic audiences. It needs a better script, more realistic presentation, and tweaking in casting to reach the wider audience.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

JUNE AND KOPI (Video Release World-Wide 2021)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.0|5.0 Starsìììì

June and Kopi—good Indonesian film—takes the audience on a journey that has been retold over and over. Nothing new here except it sets itself in a unique venue…Indonesia…and adds freshness with its quiet presentation and sweet scenes of how children grow and contribute to the atmosphere of a home. Know that the movie presents itself in Indonesian language but has great English subtitles.

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images

 Storyline 

A street dog makes a place for itself. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Noviandra Santosa for directing effort. Thank you to Producer Noviandra Santosa for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Aya (Acha Septriasa), Ale (Ryan Delon), Karin (Makayla Rose Hill), and Tante Ika (Tj Ruth). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. The movie moves slowly in many scenes (almost redundantly); but, makes up for its slow presentation in its heart and in its terrific conclusion. The quietness and pace of this movie work particularly well for children as it delivers itself at an emotionally soothing level. 

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

AN ELF'S STORY: THE ELF ON THE SHELF (Television Release USA 2011)

 Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.1|5.0 Starsììì

An Elf's Story: The Elf on the Shelf—short film—elaborates on the ‘elf on the shelf' concept. It runs on a straight-forward storyline and has great animation, but the script itself needs an overhaul. The voice cast does not have much to work with due to the deficiencies in dialogue and storyline.

 Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images

Storyline 

An Elf saves the day. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Chad Eikhoff for directing effort. Thank you to Executive Producers Carol Aebersold, Chanda Bell, Tara Burtchaell, Chad Eikhoff, Cathy Scorsese, and Kenneth M. Waddell for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Chippy (Voice of Brendan Dooling), Taylor McTuttle (Voice of Michael May), Santa Claus (Voice of Doug Williams), Snowflake (Voice of Leslie Bellair), Zart (Voice of Shameik Moore), Wordsworth (Voice of Cory Rouse), Dad (Voice Matt Henson), Mom (Voice of Tatiana Guy), Kendryl (Voice of Evie Eikhoff), Caroline (Voice of Julia Walters), and Logistics Elf (Voice of Chadwick Halbritter). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

No. A better watch is the 1979 stop motion animation movie, Jack Frost.  It runs on a better script and is more appealing for the child/adult share movie.

Vid

eo Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

THE WAR OF THE WORLDS (Theatrical Release USA 1953)

 Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.3|5.0 Starsììì

The War of the Worlds shows its age and relegates itself to an academic study of 1950s special effects, 1950s thinking patterns about alien invasions, and 1950s expectations of outcome if the invasion becomes hostile. The movie needs an upgrade due to its unsophisticated approach to the subject matter, but it is an interesting study of 1950s culture. The movie does not offer a great deal for entertainment value but can be admired for its historical significance.

 Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline 

The Earth suffers an alien invasion. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Byron Haskin for directing effort. Thank you to Producer Cecil B. DeMille for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Dr. Clayton Forrester (Gene Barry), Sylvia Van Buren (Ann Robinson), Major General Mann (Les Tremayne), Dr. Pryor (Bob Cornthwaite), Dr. Bilderbeck (Sandro Giglio), Pastor Dr. Matthew Collins (Lewis Martin), General Mann’s Aide (Houseley Stevenson, Jr.), Second Radio Reporter (Paul Frees), Wash Perry (William Phipps), and Colonel Ralph Heffner (Vernon Rich). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Maybe. The modern audience will appreciate Director Steven Spielberg’s 2005 War of the Worlds more than this movie.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

OFFICE SPACE (Theatrical USA 1999)

 Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.8|5.0 Starsììì 

Office Space—witty and comical—has a basically strong concept and backs that with good character development. Be aware that it well-deserves its R-rating and serves an adult audience partially due to its sexual references. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline 

Discontented office workers plan a unique way to retire from positions they do not enjoy working. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Mike Judge for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Daniel Rappaport and Michael Rotenberg for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Peter Gibbons (Ron Livingston), Joanna (Jennifer Aniston), Milton Waddams (Stephen Root), Bill Lumbergh (Gary Cole), Bob Slydell (John C, McGinley), Michael Bolton (David Herman), Samir Nagheenanajar (Ajay Naidu), Lawrence (Diedrich Bader), and Dr. Swanson (Michael McShane). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Maybe. This witty/comical movie serves the mature audience.

 Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

SNAKE EYES: G.I. JOE ORIGINS (Theatrical Release USA 2021)

 Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.6|5.0 Starsììì 

Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins—good concept—needs improvement in acting, presentation, and portrayal. The storyline needs strengthening. The movie works more at the gaming level of presentation rather than a movie level of presentation. Actor Henry Golding (Snake Eyes character) has good potential for future films. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline 

A young boy desires to avenge his father’s murder. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Robert Schwentke for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Brian Goldner, Erik Howsam, and Lorenzo di Bonaventura for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Snake Eyes (Henry Golding), Tomisaburo (Andrew Koji), Ana DeCobray (Ursula Corbero), Major O’Hara (Samara Weaving), Akiko (Haruka Abe), Kenta Takamura (Takehiro Hira), Hard Master (Iko Uwais), and Blind Master (Peter Mensah).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Maybe. Because it is a G.I. Joe film, fans may choose to watch it. But it has not been produced in a manner that allows it good audience reception outside of that specific niche market. 

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

APOLLO 10 ½: A SPACE AGE CHILDHOOD * (Video Release World-wide 2022)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.4|5.0 Starsìììì

Apollo 10 ½: A Space Age Childhood—animated film—is one of those interesting movies that soars in both quality and watchability. The film’s script is very well written; the story takes animated movies to the next level. This is the best animated film for Netflix since The Mitchells Vs the Machines. The movie does an excellent job of portraying a walk back in time and takes on the fictional aspect with great effectiveness. 

Film Poster Courtesy of  Wikipedia

Storyline 

A young boy is sent into space. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Richard Linklater for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Richard Linklater, Tommy Pallotta, Mike Blizzard, Femke Wolting, and Bruno Felix for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Young Stanley (Milo Coy), Adult Stanley (Jack Black), Bostick (Glen Powell), Kranz (Zachary Levi), Steve (Josh Wiggins), Mom (Lee Eddy), and Dad (Bill Wise). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. This is very well received and is well done from beginning to end. This is a great film from Director Richard Linklater.

* Also Known As "Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Adventure"

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers