Movie Review - John Candy: I Like Me

Director: Colin Hanks
Genre: Documentary
Runtime: 117 minutes
Year: 2025
Starring: John Candy, Bill Murray, Tom Hanks, Dan Aykroyd, Steve Martin, Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy, Martin Short
 
Description: Explores the life and legacy of the iconic funnyman John Candy, who died of a heart attack in 1994, at the age of 43.
 
Review: If you grew up in the 80s and 90s, like me, you probably also grew up with John Candy movies. The funnyman who starred in movies like “Planes, Trains and Automobiles”, “Uncle Buck” “Splash” and “Home Alone” was a big part of my childhood. And for anyone like me, the documentary “John Candy: I Like Me” is a must-see.

The title refers to a quote from his character Del Griffith, in “Planes, Trains and Automobiles”, where he tells Steve Martin that he likes who he is, after Martin just completely trashed him. If you have no idea who Candy was, this documentary gives you some insight into his life and career. But it will not have the emotional load. For me, this was a very heartwarming, moving tribute to the comedian. His family, friends and colleagues praise Candy with warm and honest stories about him. Candy was such a loving man and he touched the lives of everyone he met. And of the people who watch his movies.

Like I stated before, we watched a lot of John Candy films during my childhood years, and still. “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” is an absolute favorite in my family and we still revisit it every holiday season. If you grew watching him, this documentary will definitely get you emotional.

Rating: 5/ 5

Movie Review - Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire

Director: Gil Kenan
Genre: Adventure/ Fantasy, Comedy
Runtime: 115 minutes
Year: 2024
Starring: Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, McKenna Grace, Finn Wolfhard, Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, Ernie Hudson, Annie Potts, Kumail Nanjiani, Patton Oswalt, William Atherton
 
Description: When the discovery of an ancient artifact unleashes an evil force, Ghostbusters new and old must join to protect their home and save the world from a second ice age.

Review: Inside a mysterious object lurks a dark force that could unleash the ice age on the world once again. It is up to the Ghostbusters to stop this new evil.

“Ghostbusters” (1984) remains a classic that reflects the spirit of its time and has been and always will be one my all-time favorite films. When “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” was announced, I was not excited about it, at all. But it was a pleasant surprise and I actually loved that film. “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” really peaked my interest now. And although it’s a fun time, it’s not as good as its predecessor.
The opening scene, in which the new generation of Ghostbusters hunt a ghost, is immediately the highlight of the film. We see the characters work together, making sarcastic remarks and doing their tasks perfectly.

At the end of “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” it was a fun surprise to *SPOILER* see the old cast members showing up for the finale. Annie Potts, Bill Murray, Ernie Hudson and especially Dan Ayrkroyd have a bigger role in this part. Even William Atherton returns for this sequel. Some new characters are introduced, with Kumail Nanjiani being the most prominent one. He was supposed the be the comic relief, but I found him a bit annoying. Patton Oswalt is in it as well and I would have loved to see his character in more scenes.

As for the returning cast, they are given little to do. It’s not as adventurous as you might expect and is trying to evoke nostalgia in the wrong way.

I would probably watch another installment with this cast, because I found “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” entertaining enough. But director Gil Kenan didn’t succeed into making it as amazing as Jason Reitman’s “Ghostbusters: Afterlife”.

Rating: 3/ 5

Movie Review - Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania

Director: Peyton Reed
Genre: Action/ Adventure/ Science Fiction
Runtime: 124 minutes
Year: 2023
Starring: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Douglas, Michelle Pfeiffer, Jonathan Majors, Corey Stoll, Kathryn Newton, Bill Murray
 
Description: Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) and Hope van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly) are dragged into the Quantum Realm, along with Hope’s parents (Michael Douglas, Michelle Pfeiffer) and Scott’s daughter Cassie (Kathryn Newton. Together they must find a way to escape, but what secrets is Hope’s mother hiding? And who is the mysterious Kang (Jonathan Majors)?

Review: “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” is the third part in the “Ant-Man’ series. Peyton Reed is again the director, having now directed the entire trilogy.

Since the Avengers are at rest, the threat and action is moved to a place where Ant-Man and his family have been before: the Quantum Realm. The ultimate threat in the film comes from one person and that is Kang, a mysterious man living in the Quantum Realm. Jonathan Majors portray him and does this so well. “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” is primarily the film within the larger MCU that serves as his entrance, and this is the film biggest achievement. Otherwise, plenty happens, but it’s all not very innovative or exciting. The stakes are not terribly high, outside having to save family and loved ones, which is fairly predictable.

The performances are good, the humor is there and I just love Paul Rudd. He can do no wrong. But if it weren’t for the character of Kang, this movie was not per say necessary.

Rating: 3/ 5

20s Movie Review - Ghostbusters: Afterlife

Director: Jason Reitman
Genre: Adventure/ Comedy/ Fantasy
Runtime: 124 minutes
Year: 2021
Starring: Mckenna Grace, Finn Wolfhard, Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Logan Kim, Celeste O’Connor, Annie Potts, Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, Ernie Hudson, Bob Gunton, Sigourney Weaver

Description: When a single mom (Carrie Coon) and het two kids (Mckenna Grace, Finn Wolfhard) arrive in a small town, they begin to discover their connection to the original Ghostbusters and the secret legacy their grandfather left behind.

Review: I was not excited for this movie at all, when I heard about it for the first time. When I saw the trailer I got a bit more excited and after seeing it I’m sad I never saw it in theaters.

WARNING!!! THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!!!

Callie leaves with her son Trevor and daughter Phoebe for a small town in Oklahoma, where she inherited the house from her absent father. It soon becomes apparent that Callie’s father had some rather strange habits and the village was not particularly fond of him. Phoebe learns that her grandfather was one of the original Ghostbusters, and using old items of his, she figures out how to track down ghosts.
“Ghostbusters: Afterlife” is a movie you can watch as a standalone. It is not so much a sequel, but rather a story that takes place years after the original “Ghostbusters” from 1984. Phoebe and Trevor are the grandchildren of Egon Spengler, one of the four original Ghostbusters.  The actor who portrayed him back in the day, Harold Ramis, is no longer with us. To honor him, he was incorporated into the film anyway, and they did this very respectfully.
Phoebe is a scientist who is way too smart for her age. Unfortunately, she does have to go to summer school because she is new to the town. There she meets Mr. Grooberson, who is interested in the unexplained earthquakes the town is dealing with. Together they find out there is more going on than just earthquakes.
Paul Rudd is an actor I always enjoy watching. I’m surprised that his role isn’t as big as I expected it to be. I wished he was in it more. He’s well-accompanied by Carrie Coon and Finn Wolfhard, but it’s really Mckenna Grace’s movie. I think I go to far to say that she carries the movie, but she is such a talent and the best and most interesting character in the film.
Director Jason Reitman is the son of Ivan Reitman, who, of course, directed the original “Ghostbusters”. You can see Reitman’s love for the film, how he paid respects to the late Harold Ramis and how he treated the original source material with such respect as well. As I stated before, it’s a film you can easily watch without seeing “Ghostbusters” and “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” stands on its own too. But the film maybe even more enjoyable if you know the original film or if you are a fan, like I am. So much nostalgia, not only for nostalgia sake. And that moment where we see Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd and Ernie Hudson, I jumped for joy.
I thought I didn’t need this film, but I clearly did. I also believe that the people loving the original film as much as I do, will appreciate “Ghostbuster: Afterlife” more.

Rating: 4/ 5

Movie Review - The French Dispatch

Director: Wes Anderson
Genre: Drama/ Comedy
Runtime: 108 minutes
Year: 2021
Starring: Bill Murray, Owen Wilson, Léa Seydoux, Timothée Chalamet, Christoph Waltz, Saoirse Ronan, Jeffrey Writgh, Anjelica Huston, Adrien Brody, Edward Norton, Willem Dafoe, Tilda Swinton, Elisabeth moss, Benicio Del Toro, Rupert Friend, Frances McDormand, Liev Schreiber, Henry Winkler, Jason Schwartzman, Mathieu Amalric, Bob Balaban

Description: A love letter to journalists set in an outpost of an American newspaper in a fictional twentieth century French city that brings to life a collection of stories published in “The French Dispatch Magazine”.

Review: Wes Anderson’s exuberant cinematic world I immediately recognizable to any film lover. With symmetrical compositions, use of color palettes, and ensemble of top actors and extremely detailed sets, Anderson brings somewhat melancholy stories to life in a comical way. This is no different in “The French Dispatch”, with the difference that with even more detail is has become an extremely enjoyable maze of stories and sets. With his latest film, Wes Anderson manages to make at least three full-length feature films in less than two hours. “The French Dispatch” contains an unprecedented wealth of references, styles, locations, details and fun.
With his new film, Anderson simultaneously pays tribute to The New Yorker magazine and his hometown of Paris. In the fictional town of Ennui-sur-Blasé, the editorial staff of The French Dispatch magazine is followed. The film takes the structure of one of the magazine’s issues and the delves into several stories. This magazine contains and obituary, a travel story, and three longer main articles. These articles tell of a student uprising, a painter in prison, and a culinary reviewer who goes to a police station to taste chef Nescaffier’s food.
In “The Grand Budapest Hotel”, Wes Anderson already worked successfully with frame narratives. Once again, the various narrative perspectives flow freely through each other. Yet the whole remains an extremely coherent story. Scenes follow one another at a fast pace, without ever running out of steam. All of these different storylines are also full of humor and extremely interesting stylistic choices.
Everything seems possible again in Anderson’s world. For example, there is a chase scene that takes place entirely in an animation style. In “The Grand Budapest Hotel” there was already a chase made in stop-motion. This break in style does not detract from the film at all. This animation is yet another fantastically thought-out ingredient in this mishmash of influences and styles.  
Wes Anderson not only creates a labyrinth with a multitude of styles and storylines. The sets are also more of a maze than ever. When culinary reporter Roebucj Wright arrives at the police station, it consist of an incredible number of rooms. The camera follows Roebuck through all these rooms with their own identity. In half a minute countless details pass by.
“The French Dispatch” is a declaration of love to cinema from which the passion for the medium shines. It contains everything that makes film such a fantastic art form: complex storylines, a unique visual style and a constant play with light, color, movement and sound. “The French Dispatch” is yet another highlight in Wes Anderson’s already impressive oeuvre and an outstanding form of cinema.

Rating: 4,5/ 5

00s Movie Review - Fantastic Mr. Fox

Director: Wes Anderson
Genre: Animation/ Comedy/ Adventure
Runtime: 87 minutes
Year: 2009
Starring: George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Wallace Wolodarsky, Eric Chase Anderson, Michael Gambon, Willem Dafoe, Owen Wilson, Jarvis Cocker, Wes Anderson, Karen Duffy, Robin Hurlstone, Hugo Guinness, Helen McCrory, Roman Coppola, Juman Malouf, Jeremy Dawson, Garth Jennings, Brian Cox, Tristan Oliver, James Hamilton, Steven M. Rales, Bob Hersov, Jennifer Furches, Allison Abbate, Molly Cooper, Adrien Brody, Mario Batali, Martin Ballard

Description: An urbane fox (George Clooney) cannot resist returning to his farm raiding ways and then must help his community survive the farmers' retaliation.

Review: Obstinate director Wes Anderson brings the famous children’s book “Fantastic Mr. Fox”, written by Roald Dahl, to life. The fable about a fox that is on the run from three mad farmer, has been a personal favorite of Anderson for years. It took him some time to make this film. Reason: Wes Anderson always likes to do things a bit different than others. He decided to go for stop motion animation, which means there are twelve shots for every second of the film. Again Anderson manages to be surprising.
“Fantastic Mr. Fox” is a notable movie that doesn’t have a lot in common with other animations, like modern, computer animated films. All the shots in the movie look like they come straight from a picture book, with off course the infamous color pallet Anderson uses. He gave all the animals faces full of expression and a lively structure of fur. All of the animals have their own character. Take Mr. Fox, a slick and  not so virtuous fox who said goodbye to his life as a thief. His wife is pregnant and he has to be more responsible, so he takes on a job as a columnist. Twelve fox years later, when his son Ash is all grown up, Mr. Fox wants to start stealing again.
Off course we see the structure, the dysfunctional family, Anderson loves that. He gives Roald Dahl’s story an extra, more mature layer, which makes it more fun for adults.
For originality “Fantastic Mr. Fox” is outstanding. It’s very risky to go for this animation method in the world of computer animated films. That makes this movie unique. And Wes Anderson has done a wonderful job telling this beloved story. “Fantastic Mr. Fox” is probably my favorite Anderson movie.

Rating: 5/ 5

80s Movie Review - Ghostbusters

Director: Ivan Reitman
Genre: Horror/ Comedy/ Action
Runtime: 105 minutes
Year: 1984
Starring: Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Sigourney Weaver, Harold Ramis, Ernie Hudson, Rick Moranis, Annie Potts

Description: Three unemployed parapsychology professors set up shop as a unique ghost removal service.

Review: When you’re an eighties kid, you grew up with the cartoons. And who didn’t enjoy the adventures of ghostbusters Ray, Peter, Eagon and Winston? They are a group a parapsychologists. Together they take on all the evil ghosts, monsters and creatures.
They beautiful Dana Barrett asks them for help, after she saw something strange in her refrigerator. When Peter checks out her apartment, he doesn’t really think much of it, but something big and powerful is coming to New York.
The group of ghostbusters is cast perfectly, with Bill Murray excelling as Peter Venkman. He is a master at sarcasm.  Dan Aykroyd, playing Ray Stantz, was also unthinkable in ‘80s comedies and works great together with Murray. Harold Ramis plays Eagon Spengler. You know that without them even saying his name. The big nerd amongst the group. A smaller role is for Ernie Hudson, as Winston Zedmore. Sigourney Weaver shines as the damsel in distress, who was very seductive back in the days. And a really funny supporting role for Rick Moranis, as Weaver’s geeky and clumbsy neighbor.
Although the special effects are a bit dated, it never takes away the fun. “Ghostbuster” has reached a certain status over the years, every ‘80s kid loves this. And the comedy is so strong and to the point.
“Ghostbusters” is a movie I can enjoy every single time. The movie that made me love Bill Murray and that is still funny today. 

Rating: 4,5/ 5

90s Movie Review - Groundhog Day

Director: Harold Ramis
Genre: Comedy/ Romance/ Fantasy
Runtime: 101 minutes
Year: 1993
Starring: Bill Murray, Andie McDowell, Chris Elliott, Stephen Tobolowsky, Brian Doyle-Murray, Rick Ducommun, Angela Paton

Description: A jaded Pittsburgh weatherman (Bill Murray) finds himself inexplicably trapped in a small town as he lives the same say over and over again.

Review: Every year, in February, the town of Punksutawney has Groundhog Day. On this day, groundhog Phil will predict how long the winter will take. The very cynical reporter and weather man Phil Connors is send to this event every year. Just like this year, and he is not looking forward to it. And his co-workers Rita and Larry have to deal with the grumpy Phil. When Phil wakes up the next day, his alarm clock is playing the exact same song as the morning before. Outside he sees the same cars and the same people and it’s again Groundhog Day. He is reliving the same say, over and over again. 
At first he is amazed by it and he is trying to find a solution. But eventually Phil decides to live with his ‘handicap’. He can learn from it, redo mistakes.  
The best thing about “Groundhog Day” is off course Bill Murray. I love his cynicism. He isn’t a likeable person at first, but you come to love his character. A movie that relives the same day several times, doesn’t sound interesting. But it’s executed so well. “Grounghog Day” has great humor and is a very rewatchable movie.
 
Rating: 5 / 5

90s Movie Review - Wild Things

Director: John McNaughton
Genre: Drama/ Thriller/ Crime
Runtime: 108 minutes
Year: 1998
Starring: Matt Dillon, Kevin Bacon, Neve Campbell, Denise Richards, Theresa Russell, Bill Murray, Robert Wagner

Description: A police detective (Kevin Bacon) uncovers a conspiracy behind a case involving a high-school guidance counselor (Matt Dillon) when accusations of rape are made against him by two female students (Neve Campbell, Denise Richards).

Review: At first sight “Wild Things” looks like a film that we already have a dozen of. A popular teacher, type ideal son in law, is accused of raping one of his students. But with this movie, nothing is as it seems. Instead of going down the obvious road, “Wild Things” has some surprising plot twist and original turns. the viewer is constantly tested and the exact details are left for the end.
The acting in “Wild Things” is not always convincing. Kevin Bacon gives away one of the stronger performances, as detective Ray Duquette. And Matt Dillon also does a solid job as Sam Lombardo. Denise Richards is not that great as the somewhat spoiled Kelly van Ryan, while Neve Campbell is more convincing as the outcast Suzie. Bill Murray is a fun supporting actor, who plays an unreliable lawyer.
“Wild Things” is definitely a film you should see, because it’s more than meets the eye. If you can look past the quality of some of the actors and the fact that there is only pretty people in the film, you’re going to have a good time with this movie.

Rating: 3,5/ 5

90s Movie Review - Space Jam

Director: Joe Pytka
Genre: Animation/ Comedy/ Family/ Adventure
Runtime: 88 minutes
Year: 1996
Starring: Michael Jordan, Wayne Knight, Bill Murray, Theresa Randle, Larry Bird, Charles Barkley, Danny DeVito

Description: In a desperate attempt to win a basketball match and earn their freedom, the Looney Tunes seek the aid of retired basketball champion, Michael Jordan.

Review: I grew up watching Looney Tunes cartoons. I loved them: Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Road Runner, Sylvester, Taz, you name it. In 1996, they decided to combine animation with live-action for the movie “Space Jam”. Legendary basketball played Michael Jordan was enlisted as the lead actor, which results in a fun family film in which the hero of the Chicago Bulls and the Looney Tunes join forces.
When tiny aliens from Moron Mountain come to Earth to capture the Looney Tunes, the ever wise Bugs Bunny decides to challenge them to a game of basketball. If the Looney Tunes win, they don’t have to go to Moron Mountain to entertain the public, but if they lose, they are doomed to eternal slavery. But Bugs and his friends see no problem, since the aliens are a fist high. Until the little creatures transform into the Monstars, a team of giant monsters who stole the basketball skills from famous players. And the Looney Tunes don’t see how they can win anymore. Therefore, Bugs enlists the help of Michael Jordan.
When small and sneaky aliens from Moron Mountain come to Earth to capture the Looney Tunes, the ever wise Bugs Bunny decides to challenge them to a game of basketball. If the Looney Tunes win, they don't have to go to Moron Mountain to entertain the public, but if they lose, they are doomed to eternal slavery. But with the athleticism of a fish stick, Bugs, Daffy and their friends foresee no problems. Until the little creatures transform into the Monstars. A team of professional basketball players who have no problem chopping up the Looney Tunes.
“Space Jam” is mostly fun and nonsensical. Like in the cartoons we all grew up with, almost everything is possible in their world. It’s still, after so many years, an entertaining family film.

Rating: 3/ 5

90s Movie Review - Ed Wood

Director: Tim Burton
Genre: Drama/ Comedy
Runtime: 121 minutes
Year: 1994
Starring: Johnny Depp, Martin Landau, Sarah Jessica Parker Patricia Arquette, Bill Murray, Jeffrey Jones, Vincent D’Onofrio, Lisa Marie

Description: Ambitious but troubled movie director Edward D. Wood Jr. (Johnny Depp) tries his best to fulfill his dreams, despite his lack of talent.

I WATCHED THIS MOVIE FOR MY 2021 MOVIE CHALLENGE.
WEEK 19: A MOVIE BASED ON TRUE EVENTS

Review: With the film “Ed Wood”, director Tim Burton pays a wonderful tribute to a colleague who went down in history as “the worst filmmaker of all time”.  Edward D. Wood Jr. owes his reputation to three B-movies he made in the 1950s. the director operated on the fringes of Hollywood, surrounded himself with a bizarre ensemble of actors and preferred to dress in pink angora sweaters.
At first glance it seems an odd combination: one of the most successful directors of the last decades, responsible for a bunch of fantastic movies, is making a film about the ultimate loser in Hollywood history. On closer inspection, however, the life and work of Tim Burton and Ed Wood appear to have striking similarities. For example, both grew up with a strong love for horror films and later both worked with the horror idols of their youth. Burton worked three times with the horror star Vincent Price, who died in 1993. Wood called on his childhood idol Bela Lugosi three times in the 1950s, the Hungarian actor who celebrated triumphs in Dracul in 1931, but never managed to pull off his mot famous role thanks in part to his Eastern European accents. Both directors became close friends with their elderly film stars, and the friendship between Ed Wood and Bela Lugosi occupies a central place in Burton’s film.  
Ed Wood had, besides his passion for film, a love for dressing up in woman’s clothes. In 1953, Wood had the opportunity to combine these two passions. That’s how the movie “Glen & Glenda” was born. His directorial debut was laughed at an not taken seriously at all. But he still manages to stay positive and makes the horror film “Bride of the Monster”, again with Bela Lugosi.
Thanks to Wood’s engaging personality and indestructible optimism, the incompetent director managed to scrape together money again and again. In addition, he worked like a magnet on all sorts of notable figures. His entourage included, in addition to Lugosi, the 100-pound Swedish wrestler Tor Johnson, TV-presenter Vampira and pseudo-psychic Criswell, the eccentric cousin Bunny Breckinridge and the color-blind cameraman Bill Thompson. The while bunch eventually starred in Ed Wood’s ‘masterpiece’ “Plan 9 from Outer Space”, the film Wood would eventually be remembered by.
Tim Burton shows himself to be a compassionate biographer with “Ed Wood”. He focuses on Wood’s boundless optimism, he ends his film with the premiere of “Plan 9 from Outer Space”. Through moody black-and-white photography, beautiful art direction and a few visual and verbal quotes, Burton manages to excellently capture the atmosphere of Wood’s heyday. As for the actors, there is a minor miracle: with Martin Landau leading the way, the company in “Ed Wood” seems straight out of Wood’s original film.
Landau’s performance as Bela Lugosi is truly amazing. And Johnny Depp, who plays the titular character, gives away a great performance as well. A small role for Vincent D’Onofrio as Orson Welles is really memorable and Bill Murray is fantastic as ever.
“Ed Wood” is a great film, in my opinion a very overlooked and underrated film by Tim Burton.

Rating: 4 / 5

10s Movie Review - Aloha

Director: Cameron Crowe
Genre: Drama/ Romance/ Comedy
Runtime: 105 minutes
Year: 2015
Starring: Bradley Cooper, Emma Stone, Rachel McAdams, John Krasinski, Bill Murray, Danny McBride, Alec Baldwin, Bill Camp, Jaeden Martell

I WATCHED THIS MOVIE FOR MY 2020 MOVIE CHALLENGE.
WEEK 21: A MOVIE WITH YOUR FAVORITE ACTRESS

Description: A celebrated military contractor (Bradley Cooper) returns to the site of his greatest career triumphs and reconnects with a long-ago love (Rachel McAdams) while unexpectedly falling for the hard-charging Air Force watch-dog (Emma Stone) assigned to him.

Review: Cameron Crowe directed movies like “Jerry Maguire” and “Almost Famous”, which were both great successes. He got together a fabulous cast for “Aloha”, including Bradley Cooper, Emma Stone, Rachel McAdams, Bill Murray, John Krasinski and Danny McBride. But this film proofs that a strong cast doesn’t necessarily make a great movie.
Brian Gilcrest used to be a much celebrated fighter pilot and astronomer, but after an incident in Kabul he can’t work in the field anymore. He now uses his expertise while working at Global One, a private company lead by billionaire Carson Welch, who wants to help the America army. Welch wants the entire world to have free access to the internet and Gilcrest is send to Hawaii, to get the blessing from an officious king. Together with his liaison Captain Allison Ng he has to make sure the natives aren’t going to be any trouble. And then there is Gilcrest’s ex Tracy, now married to another pilot Woody and mother of two kids. It’s clear their relationship didn’t end well, but there is also something between Gilcrest and Allison.
It's not really clear what the movie is trying to tell you. What is clear is the lack of knowledge of the Hawaiian culture.
The cast is fine, it does what it needs to do. But with such a big group of names, you except more. Bradley Cooper isn’t challenged enough in his role and Emma Stone has been better. Rachel McAdams does fit her role and her role is convincing enough. John Krasinksi can do much more than this and Bill Murray was probably just added to draw attention. He doesn’t get that much to do.
“Aloha” is not a terrible movie, but the film lacks logic and meaning. It sometimes even drags. And such a talented group of actors deserved a better script.

Rating: 2,5 / 5

80s Movie Review - Stripes

Director: Ivan Reitman
Genre: Comedy
Runtime: 106 minutes
Year: 1981
Starring: Bill Murray, Harold Ramis, John Candy, Judge Reinhold, Sean Young, P.J. Soles, Warren Oates

Description: John (Bill Murray) and Russell (Harold Ramis) are dissatisfied with their jobs and decide to join the army for a bit of fun.

I WATCHED THIS MOVIE FOR MY 2020 MOVIE CHALLENGE.
WEEK 12: A COMEDY

Review: Bill Murray already worked with director Ivan Reitman and actor/ director Harold Ramis before. Movies like “Caddyshack”, “Meatballs” and “Stripes” were the prelude to the record-breaking “Ghostbusters” that came out in 1984.
In “Stripes” we follow John Winger who works as a taxi driver and clearly hates his job. After dealing with an uptight upper-class customer, John decides to quit his job. And that’s only the beginning of this terrible day. When he returns home his car is taken and his girlfriend breaks up with him. Not knowing what to do next, John decides to enlist in the army after seeing an add on TV. His friend Russel, who is working as an English teacher, joins him. Once in the army, John and Russell are put in a group led by sergeant Hulka. And it’s not an easy group to control.
“Stripes” is a typical 80s comedy, that probably wouldn’t work as well were it made today. That doesn’t mean it isn’t funny because it is. And the humor mainly comes from the situations and character John. And Bill Murray, who plays John, is the king of sarcasm. I’ve always loved his humor and it really shines here. And Murray doesn’t even have to try, it comes natural to him.
If it weren’t for Bill Murray, this comedy wouldn’t even be remembered. Because the story is quite forgettable, a bit silly at times and also messy. And seeing this movie was made in the 80s, the female characters don’t really have a lot of substance and are merely there for the purpose of the eye.
“Stripes” does have its moments and Bill Murray is definitely the main reason to watch this comedy.

Rating: 3/ 5

Movie Review - The Dead Don't Die

Director: Jim Jarmusch
Genre: Comedy/ Horror
Runtime: 100 minutes
Year: 2019
Starring: Bill Murray, Adam Driver, Tom Waits, Chloë Sevigny, Steve Buscemi, Danny Glover, Caleb Landry Jones, RZA, Rosie Perez, Tilda Swinton, Selena Gomez, Iggy Pop

Description: The peaceful town of Centerville finds itself battling a zombie horde as the dead start rising from their graves.

Review: With "The Dead Don't Die", director Jim Jarmusch adds a dry-comic zombie film to his oeuvre. The film was declared dead in Cannes, but that doesn't spoil the fun.
Agents Cliff and Ronnie make their daily rounds through the sleepy town of Centreville ('A Nice Town', as can be read on the place name sign) when something strange strikes them. It just doesn't get dark. And then there are all kinds of reports of missing pets. Could it have something to do with the 'solar fracking' that is being reported about, a peculiar phenomenon that causes the poles to shift? Be that as it may, it doesn't take long before the dead start to get up. What makes these zombies different is that they fall into old habits. One has an uncontrollable urge to drink, the other is diligently looking for a wifi signal.
The film takes place in the fictional town Centerville USA, where Sheriff Cliff Robertson, deputy Ronnie Peterson and officer Mindy Morrison form the police force that has to protect the villagers from zombies. The dry-humorous Bill Murray and the cool Adam Driver make no attempt at convincing the villagers as policemen. On the contrary: the central joke in “The Dead Don't Die” lies in the idea that the actors were asked by director Jim Jarmusch to play in a zombie film. Murray and Driver literally mention this aspect and these characters are aware they are in a movie. And two actresses emphasize it with the names of their characters: Rosie Perez is called Posie Juarez in the film and Tilda Swinton plays undertaker Zelda Winston.
Their laconic struggle against the corpses is thus comical enough for less than an hour, but when the joke is worked out and Jarmusch and the actors repeat themselves, the thoughts go out to all the zombie comedies that did shake from start to finish. There are too many of them to mention. Maybe that's Jarmusch's biggest problem: he tells a joke that was long dead and buried. And he kept coming back.
The horror comedy is one of my favorite genres, but “The Dead Don’t Die” didn’t give me what I wanted. It has a few funny moments and a fantastic cast, but this movie was super disappointing.

Rating: 2,5/ 5

Movie Review - Zombieland: Double Tap

Director: Ruben Fleischer
Genre: Comedy/ Action/ Horror
Runtime: 99 minutes
Year: 2019
Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Emma Stone, Abigail Breslin, Zoey Deutch, Rosario Dawson, Luke Wilson, Bill Murray, Thomas Middleditch

Description: Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg), Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson), Wichita (Emma Stone) and Little Rock (Abigail Breslin) move to the American heartland as they face off against evolved zombies, fellow survivors, and the growing pains of the snarky makeshift family.

Review: The subgenre, horror comedy, is one of my personal favorites. Especially when it has to do with zombies. When “Zombieland” came out in 2009, it was a surprising, fresh and hilarious film that really impressed. It mocks itself and is creative. Ten years later, director Ruben Fleisher comes with the sequel. Maybe a little late, but better late than never. Because, did we need it? Not really. Did I enjoy it? Hell yeah!
In 2009, besides Woody Harrelson, all actors were fairly new to Hollywood. Now, it stars Oscar nominees and even one winner, being Emma Stone. Besides this difference, the cast hasn’t changed a bit and the chemistry is still a strong element in the film. The bickering between Columbus and Tallahassee, the creative ways to kill a zombie, sharp dialogue. Off course it doesn’t reach the same level as “Zombieland”, but “Zombieland: Double Tap” comes awfully close.
“Zombieland: Double Tap” is more of the same, but we loved the first so why change the formula? It’s not as original as the first, but it’s a great sequel. And if you’re a fan of the original film, you will enjoy this one as well.

Rating: 4,5/ 5

Movie Reviews - Isle of Dogs

Director: Wes Anderson
Genre: Animation/ Adventure
Runtime: 102 minutes
Year: 2018
Starring: Bryan Cranston, Edward Norton, Bob Balaban, Bill Murray, Jeff Goldblum, Greta Gerwig, Frances McDormand, Scarlett Johansson, Harvey Keitel, F. Murray Abraham, Tilda Swinton, Yoko Ono, Ken Watanabe, Fisher Stevens, Liev Shreiber, Courtney B. Vance, Angelica Huston

Description: Set in Japan, Isle of Dogs follows a boy's odyssey in search of his lost dog.

Review: Wes Anderson is a unique filmmaker. One we can’t compare to any other filmmaker in Hollywood. He shines with his humor, mix of arthouse and commercial cinema. That last is because of all the great actors and actresses he always manages to get. Anderson already proofed with “Fantastic Mr. Fox”, that stop-motion is right up his alley. And “Isle of Dogs” is another one of his masterpieces.
All Japanese vocals are translated by a translator, computer or exchange student. This is what we see at the start of “Isle of Dogs”. The barking of the dogs is indeed English. And it’s true. A lot of Japanese. And not all is translated, but that’s not necessary. The most important tale is told by the animals.
Dogs had to fight for their position in Japan for ages. But in the fictional metropole Megasaki, the four legged friends are no longer welcome. A dog virus broke out and mayor Kobayasho orders to send all the dogs to a trash island. The dogs try to make it their own place. But their peace is disturbed when Atari, the mayor’s nephew, crashes onto the island while looking for his dog Spots.
It’s clear Wes Anderson is not a big fan of 3D. All the dogs are almost always seen in a frontal position, from the side or from above. I love his style, it has charm and it’s never too much. You are amazed by everything without losing your focus of the story.
“Isle of Dogs” is a modern fable about (literally) and underdog that tries to better the situation with unity, wit and humor. Wes Anderson has done it again!

Rating: 5/ 5

100 Movie Challenge 2016 - # 115: Little Shop of Horrors

Director: Frank Oz
Genre: Musical/ Comedy/ Horror
Runtime: 94 minutes
Year: 1986
Starring: Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Vincent Gardenia, Steve Martin, John Candy, Bill Murray, Christopher Guest

Description: A nerdy florist (Rick Moranis) finds his chance for success and romance with the help of a giant man-eating plant who demands to be fed.

Review: The story was first told in 1960, in the movie “The Little Shop of Horrors”. This movie is known for a few things: the short time it was filmed in (two days), the first appearance of Jack Nicholson and the doubtful quality. The last one didn’t stop producer David Geffen to turn it into a stage musical in the 80s. First he described it as the worst idea ever, but “Little Shop of Horrors” grew to be a huge hit. Eventually they made a movie version of this stage musical, directed by Frank Oz. And again a success.
And I understand why this is (still) a great and un musical. The songs are catchy and good, the cast is fun, the humor is dark and funny, the set looks great and the camera work is stylish. And Audrey II, the talking plant, looks amazing. For a movie from 1986, it looks stunning. Real craftsmanship.
“Little Shop of Horrors” is a great adaptation of a stage musical, a funny and comedic musical. Don’t take the film too seriously and you will definitely enjoy it. I love “Little Shop of Horrors”.

Rating: 5/ 5

100 Movie Challenge 2016 - # 100: Ghostbusters

Director: Paul Feig
Genre: Comedy/ Action/ Science Fiction
Runtime: 116 minutes
Year: 2016
Starring: Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, Leslie Jones, Chris Hemsworth, Ed Begley Jr., Bill Murray, Andy Garcia, Cecily Strong, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, Sigourney Weaver, Steve Higgins, Zach Woods, Charles Dance

Description: Following a ghost invasion of Manhattan, paranormal enthusiasts Erin Gilbert (Kristen Wiig) and Abby Yates (Melissa McCarthy), nuclear engineer Jillian Holtzmann (Kate McKinnon), and subway worker Patty Tolan (Leslie Jones) band together to stop the otherworldly threat.

Review: The movie got a lot of negative critique, even before the movie was released. A new “Ghostbusters” movie with an all-female cast. Director Paul Feig never intended to do a remake or to copy the eighties version of the film. This movie breathes new life into the concept. In 2016 Venkman, Stanz, Spengler and Zeddmore never existed. Bill Murray even has a small cameo as a scientist that doesn’t believe in ghosts. The Ghostbusters from the 1984 and 1989 movies are not a part of Feig’s universe.
Physicist Erin Gilbert is trying to make a career at a prestigious university, but is reminded of the book she once wrote with her friend Abby Yates. A book about ghosts. Abby is still seriously investigating the paranormal, with her engineer friend Jillian Holtzmann. When there is a ghost sighting in the city, the three check it out and realize that they were right all along. When also Patty Tolan joins them, who knows a lot about the city, the four women get an office, hire the very dumb secretary Kevin and try to catch ghosts for a living.
The plot is not that different from the original film. The story is a bit bland. But the film is supposed to be a comedy. And it is a really funny film, all thanks to the great women. Melissa McCarthy is really on a roll with both physical and verbal humor. Kristen Wiig is really strong, Leslie Jones is hilarious and Kate McKinnon is crazy. I also loved Chris Hemsworth, as the dumb (yet hot) secretary Kevin. But there is also the problem. It’s definitely a women’s film, because every male character is either a douchebag or very stupid.
There are many nods to the original film and I really liked that. “Ghostbusters” got a lot of crap and not all deserved. Is it better than the original? No. It does look better, but that’s logical because of today’s techniques. I really enjoyed the film and I thought it was very funny. Sceptic at first, a little surprised and very entertained.

Rating: 3,5/ 5

100 Movie Challenge 2016 - # 59: The Jungle Book

Director: Jon Favreau
Genre: Adventure/ Drama/ Fantasy
Runtime: 105 minutes
Year: 2016
Starring: Neel Sethi, Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley, Idris Elba, Lupita Nyong’o, Scarlett Johansson, Christopher Walken, Garry Shandling, Giancarlo Esposito

Description: The man-cub Mowgli (Neel Sethi) flees the jungle after a threat from the tiger Shere Khan (Idris Elba). Guided by Bagheera the panther (Ben Kingsley) and the bear Baloo (Bill Murray), Mowgli embarks on a journey of self-discovery, though he also meets creatures who don't have his best interests at heart.

Review: Director Jon Favreau believed that an animated classic could profit from the modern film techniques. And he was right. With “The Jungle Book” he made one of the most technological advanced remakes.
People were afraid that the animals would sound too human, but it doesn’t. Where the original Disney animation mixed the animals with human stereotypes, this version shows a much more realistic perspective. Elephants are seen as mighty creatures and all the animals kept their animalistic behavior. Fire, tools and people are seen as unnatural, which brings Shere Khan to hunting down Mowgli. The way Shere Khan, Kaa or King Louie respond to humanity, you don’t just see an animal that can talk. You seen actual characters.
The film has a very adult feel to it. The moments where Baloo and Bagheera collide as worried guardians, with complete different ideologies, are the best. Both life lessons aren’t forced. And along the way there are more animals that are trying to influence Mowgli.
The cast is perfect. Scarlett Johansson and Christopher Walken have fun supporting roles. Both impressive. Ben Kingsley voices Bagheera, who is perfect as the wise panther. But the best roles are for Bill Murray and Idris Elba. The tiger Shere Khan doesn’t only impress because of his calmth and arrogance, but his motivation and temper are also understandable. Bill Murray is the exact opposite as the somewhat laid back and nobel bear Baloo. These two character keep the film balanced.
The only human in the film is Mowgli, played by Neel Sethy. It’s his debut and he does a very good job.
If I were a kid and saw this version of “The Jungle Book”, I wouldn’t stop talking about it. But I’m an adult and I feel exactly the same. This is the best adaptation of the story I ever saw, even better then the animation. Jon Favreau managed to make it a perfect family film, without being to childish or to scary for kids. And it was great from beginning to end, it didn’t have a dull moment. I loved “The Jungle Book”!

Rating: 5/ 5

100 Movie Challenge 2016 - # 16: Dumb and Dumber To

Director: Bobby Farrelly, Peter Farrelly

Genre: Comedy

Runtime: 105 minutes

Year: 2014

Starring: Jim Carrey, Jeff Daniels, Rob Riggle, Laurie Holden, Kathleen Turner, Bill Murray, Rachel Melvin

Description: Twenty years since their first adventure, Lloyd (Jim Carrey) and Harry (Jeff Daniels) go on a road trip to find Harry's newly discovered daughter, who was given up for adoption.

Review: Comedy sequels happen seldom and there is a reason for that. They hardly ever work and are rarely funnier or as funny as the first film. The same goes for “Dumb and Dumber To”. It’s fun to see Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels team up again as the stupid Lloyd and Harry, but it’s much of the same and not as funny as “Dumb and Dumber” was.

“Dumb and Dumber” came out in 1994, which was a very good year for Jim Carrey. He also gave us “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective” and “The Mask” that year. It was also the movie that put directing brothers Bobby and Peter Farrelly on the map. Both the Farrelly brothers and Jim Carrey haven’t made any successful movies recently, so it’s not that odd that they join forces again. Luckily for them Jeff Daniels wanted to join in too.

In “Dumb and Dumber To”, Lloyd and Harry go on another trip, this time to find Harry’s daughter. He just found out about her and she was given up for adoption. They also have to deliver an important package. Sound familiar? Well, in “Dumb and Dumber” they traveled miles for a woman Lloyd was in love with and they were carrying an important briefcase.

And that’s not the only repetition we get. Off course they did this to make it fun for the fans of “Dumb and Dumber”, but this way it’s not as interesting or surprising. Or as funny, because a lot of the jokes aren’t as funny.

This all doesn’t mean this is a total failure. There are many jokes that are enjoyable, although they are very juvenile, but come on, it’s Jim Carrey.

Overall “Dumb and Dumber To” didn’t break the curse, it’s not a very good comedy sequel. Fun for one time, when you’re in a silly mood.

Rating: 2/ 5