All posts by Oliver Woodings

5.0

Mulan (2020)

September 7, 2020

Like Mulan herself, this remake pretends to be something it's not: Exciting and new. Whatever you thought of the 1998 Animated version is likely what you'll think of this new incarnation too.

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by Oliver Woodings

7.0

9.4

The Man Who Laughs (1928): Eureka Masters of Cinema Blu-Ray Review

August 28, 2020

Whilst I think a 90 minute cut would make this practically perfect, there is no denying transformative powers of star Conrad Veidt and director Paul Leni, who both unfortunately died before they could find major success in the talkies.

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by Oliver Woodings

2.0

Spree

August 16, 2020

An excruciating and shallow experience to sit through, Spree is about as bad as they come. It's a sustained period of unrestrained misery.

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by Oliver Woodings

5.0

Endings, Beginnings

August 8, 2020

It’s a commendable departure from conventional romantic dramas (although it’s ending goes back to formula), but the film feels lost along the way, much like its protagonist. Any supposed purpose feels lukewarm at best, and much of its ideas are half baked. It has an ending sure. It has a beginning. But where’s the middle?

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by Oliver Woodings

6.0

9.8

The Woman in Black (1989) Blu-Ray Review

August 3, 2020

This early adaptation of The Woman in Black may hold cherished memories for those who saw it when it aired, but for those who weren't there, it just won't be the same.

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by Oliver Woodings

The Simple Genius of Saul Bass Posters

July 31, 2020

There is a lack of creativity in poster design today. In terms of the mainstream studio movies especially, there is very little variation. Popular tropes that we see movie posters constantly imitating today include the “half face” poster, often reserved for dramas or anything with a tone that can be described as “gritty”. Or the approach of any self titled blockbuster, from Marvel to the depressing revival of long dead franchises, which is to simply throw the entire cast [...]

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by Oliver Woodings

7.0

Greyhound

July 15, 2020

A refreshingly simple and no-nonsense war film that captures the intensity of naval warfare whilst Hanks provides yet another effortless performance.

by Oliver Woodings

2.0

3.1

Arthur & Merlin: Knights of Camelot

July 9, 2020

It's bad when you'd rather be watching Guy Richie's utterly stupid take on King Arthur over this vapid, hollow shell of a movie.

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by Oliver Woodings

5.0

8.3

Burden

July 4, 2020

It may not be a burden to watch, but this racial drama feels too "by the numbers" and pedestrian despite the talent involved. What could have been a potentially great character study is marred by unsatisfying broad strokes.

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by Oliver Woodings

End of the line!