May December, American Fiction, Wonka, Maestro, & More – 2023 Review Roundup!

May December, American Fiction, Wonka, Maestro, & More – 2023 Review Roundup!

If you’re a movie lover like me, you’ve been going to the movies a lot in the last two months. In the late fall and early winter season we’re bombarded left and right with “Oscar movies” that are releasing just under the wire so they can be top of mind for voters come award season….

Godzilla Minus One – Shea’s Review

Godzilla Minus One – Shea’s Review

The author argues that “Godzilla Minus One” surpasses all previous Godzilla movies and criticizes Hollywood’s attempts at producing them. Praising the plot, character development, and visual effects of the Japanese version, the writer recounts the film’s impact on him, marking it as his favorite movie. The film takes place post-World War II, representing Godzilla as a force of nature; the depiction incorporates themes about Japan’s war-time attitudes and decisions. It’s recommended for the exploration of Japanese history, character drama, and monster movie aspects.

Silent Night (2023) – Shea’s Review

Silent Night (2023) – Shea’s Review

John Woo’s latest Hollywood venture, Silent Night, starring Joel Kinnaman, is a dialogue-lite revenge thriller set on Christmas Eve. The reviewer finds the film underwhelming, with a slow, tedious pace and uninteresting action scenes. Despite Kinnaman’s fine performance as a grieving father, the lack of dialogue is ineffective and seems forced. Despite Woo’s reputable filmography, the film lacks distinctiveness and fails to impress, being deemed not worth viewers’ time.

Dream Scenario – Shea’s Review

Dream Scenario – Shea’s Review

In 2023, Nicolas Cage starred in five films, including “Dream Scenario,” produced by the independent studio, A24. The film, featuring Cage as a professor appearing in people’s dreams, is a unique dark comedy/fantasy. Despite some thematic disconnect, the reviewer applauded the movie for its insightful commentary, original, dynamic visuals, and consistent humor. Cage’s performance, considered a highlight of his recent career, and successful collaboration with A24, made “Dream Scenario” a recommendable watch.