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Reviews
A Man Called Otto (2022)
Tom Hanks does justice to this remake of a Swedish masterpiece
The original Swedish version (A man called Ove) is a masterpiece and so I when I watched this remake I was worried that it would be a poor paper version in comparison to the depth of the original. Whilst there is the slight inevitable "warming" of the production for the American audience, I was pleased that the key themes were carried over well and the tweaks made to westernise the story were done delicately and consistently woven throughout the whole of the film.
It's obvious that Tom Hanks had studied the original in minute detail, he really did justice to the portal of the character, owning it but demonstrating awareness of how brilliantly the original Swedish actor had delivered the nuances of this unique depressed and cantankerous old man.
I struggle with subtitles but really enjoyed the Swedish version and recommend you watch it if you enjoyed this one.
My Son (2021)
Extra star for the unscripted method
This is a gritty thriller that balances tension throughout and doesn't overcook the action. There is a reality to the texture of the whole production provided by often breathtaking locations and scenery.
What's totally amazing to discover is that the lead, James McAvoy, never had access to a script. It's quite an achievement and lends authenticity to an otherwise formulaic storyline and I think it's what differentiates this production from anything else in the same category.
I think it could have easily been a decent movie to pass an evening but it has a little extra going for it and the quality exceeds expectations as a result. Definitely one for movie night if you've run out of options and haven't seen it. You won't be disappointed.
Living (2022)
What a joy to watch
Stunning performances and cinematography throughout. A simple story (no spoilers here) told through the strength of talented actors owning their characters and creating true on screen chemistry. At times it felt like watching a live theatre production, at others you find yourself mesmerised by the visual cinema, your attention is corralled into each moment, enticing you to allow your imagination to be immersed. The attention to detail throughout is just astounding, including the sets and wardrobe.
It's just a slightly obscure, simple and human story that comes to life and takes you on an enjoyable journey.
Underdog (2019)
Misleading rating
At the time of viewing this has a 7.1 IMDb rating. It's not anywhere near that, I've just watched a fight based movie with a 5 rating and it wasn't brilliant but it was better. Stilted narrative, rudimentary script and formulaic direction. It's difficult to rate the acting performances because the script was so bad. The little kids in the opening scenes probably displayed the most talent. The main actress made the best of it.
It probably could have been a half decent story but the whole thing was so wooden and lacking in flow. It would have been better to recut the entire thing as a paradoy of a fight film. Unless it was and I missed the joke?