Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts

Indonesia 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 14 March 2018

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 7.3/10

Rottentomatoes 8.0/10

My impressions

On one level a homage to the spaghetti westerns of Sergio Leone that made Clint Eastwood a household name.

In this story the women are in the forefront. They are the main protagonists, helping each other, giving support and triumphant against all odds in the end.

Well, most probably not fully in control as the society they live in is still a patriarchy. Women are ornaments to most and the women’s desires and feelings is so alien to the men.

The story takes its time with sparse dialogue laden with undertones.

A glorious effort.

The Greatest Showman

USA 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 14 Jan 2018

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 8.0/10

Rottentomatoes 6.0/10

My impressions

Rags to riches and anyone can be successful in America storyline.

The memories of childhood, the determination to succeed and the gumption to take risks. All in the name of love. To show that he is as good as another.

That drives him from one triumph to another but there is always a price to pay.

When fate dealt him a bad hand, then and only then did he realise that money and fame is not the be all to life.

Those who love and support him through the ups and downs, they are the ones to be cherished.

Uplifting.

You Mean The World To Me

Malaysia 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 11 May 2017

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 8.7/10

My impressions

A past that still haunts. The present is the conduit in coming to terms with that past. The hurt, agony, despair. All the turmoil of growing up.

The innocence shattered by an incident. An unforgettable moment. Unspoken.

But it needs to find that outlet to let go of that past. To come to terms with what happened. Or else it will linger and fester, destroying oneself from within.

Cathartic.

Guardian of the Galaxy Vol 2

USA 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 28 April 2017

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 8.1/10

Rotten Tomatoes 7.1/10

My impressions

The fun continues with Peter meeting his so-called father. And what a fun ride indeed for everyone.

Here is a film that does not take itself seriously and that is the beauty of this franchise. References to past popular culture is strewn everywhere. The one liners are delightful. The out of this world super heroes is cute. It helps that the actors themselves look as if they are enjoying their outing and this puts the audience at ease.

Without any prompting, a delight.

Fast & Furious 8

USA 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 25 April 2017

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 7.2/10

Rotten Tomatoes 6./10

My impressions

Continuing the usual hectic fast pace of the previous episodes, we get more of the same adrenaline rush. Watching the story unfold with the good guys using their latest gadgets, those who are in tune with the franchise will find this latest offering their cup of tea.

This time around, Dom, the main man has to do the bidding of the bad guys. To the detriment of his friends. Why and how he manages to get out of that situation is the gist of the story.

Cat and mouse run-ins throughout.

Beauty and the Beast

USA 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 2 April 2017

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 7.8/10

Rotten Tomatoes 6.6/10

My impressions

I guess almost everyone knows the tale and for me the animated version remains the standard.

This is a good effort despite its shortcomings. The story line still tugs at your heart strings at the appropriate moments. You root for the hero and wish those who have evil intentions will get their just dues.

As a lot depended on the songs, the lyrics convey a lot. The actors may not be natural singers but had enough gumption to carry it through.

A satisfying trip to the cinema.

Kong: Skull Island

USA 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 18 March 2017

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 7.1/10

Rotten Tomatoes 6.6/10

My impressions

This might be another version of the classic King Kong tale but all versions seem to have a similar thread. We are reminded repeatedly how inhuman man is when it comes to the other species that inhabit this planet of ours.

The delicate equilibrium that should be maintained is almost always upset by the man’s ambitions and machinations. We are incorrigible. It is always us first at the expense of the others who share this place called home.

This time around, we hope the perpetrators will learn their lesson.

It might remain just a hope.