Joe Bloggs About Films

Joe Hobson
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Waffling about films and tv. facebook.com/joebloggsaboutfilms insta: @joebloggsaboutfilms email: joebloggsaboutfilms@gmail.com

  1. 4d ago

    The End of Oak Street

    Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor face off against dinosaurs in this new sci-fi adventure from David Robert Mitchell... and it's actually quite impressive. The biggest compliment I can give 'The End of Oak Street' is that it expertly captures that classic Spielberg and Amblin feel. The family dynamic, the charming neighbourhood setting, and the fantastical event that catapults these characters into an extraordinary adventure are exactly the kind of ingredients you want from a summer blockbuster. Whilst the film isn't flawless, it has enough heart to keep you invested, and enough suspense and tension to keep you on the edge of your seat. The dinosaurs, all feathered and furred up, deliver some terrific thrills, even if it does occasionally feel like the leads are being protected by some serious plot armour. But even with those niggles, the film built around the dinosaurs is strong enough to make you genuinely care about these characters - and that's something a lot of recent blockbusters have been missing. It's a film that understands that the spectacle only works when you have something worth rooting for. And when the dinosaurs do arrive, it knows exactly how to make them count. Full thoughts, with spoilers, in this review.

    The End of Oak Street

  2. Aug 23

    The X Files: I Want to Believe - Vrach Frankenshteyn

    Nearly 20 years after its original release, the second X-Files film, 'I Want to Believe', is back with a brand new cut from original series creator Chris Carter... and, unfortunately, it hasn't changed my overall thoughts on the film. As a huge fan of the iconic series, I Want to Believe always felt like something of a misfire when it arrived in 2008. It essentially played as an extended 'Monster of the Week' episode, something the show did exceptionally well, but without many of the thrills, tension or excitement you'd expect from an X-Files movie. Now, nearly two decades later, Carter has released what he claims is the cut he always wanted to put out, titled Vrach Frankenshteyn. Yet, while there are some changes, they arguably make the overall film worse in places. There may be additional gore and more graphic imagery, but the chemistry between Mulder and Scully has noticeably been trimmed back, stripping away one of the biggest and best elements of both the film and the series itself. That said, there are still plenty of elements (both old and new) that work incredibly well. The themes of science and faith, combined with the immense weight placed on Scully's shoulders, create a fascinating and engrossing portrayal of her character. Gillian Anderson delivers one of the film's strongest performances, while David Duchovny slips effortlessly back into the role of Mulder like a comfortable pair of slippers. Billy Connolly's Father Joe also brings enough darkness, complexity and ambiguity to the story to pull our characters back into the fray and give the film some much needed intrigue. If anything, it's simply nice to see these leads together again. Granted, we've had the revival seasons since, but there's always an extra buzz whenever something new emerges from this world - even if it ultimately doesn't stick the landing. Full thoughts in this review.

    The X Files: I Want to Believe - Vrach Frankenshteyn

  3. Jul 31

    Spider-Man: Brand New Day

    'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' swings into cinemas, ushering Peter Parker into the next chapter of his life as he grapples with the repercussions of the previous trilogy. The result is a genuinely impressive reintroduction to the character. 'Brand New Day' is the closest at recapturing the spirit of what Sam Raimi delivered with his original trilogy. Through outstanding practical effects, dynamic cinematography, and inventive camera work, the action feels intimate and immersive. Director Destin Daniel Cretton thrives in this space, delivering some of the most exhilarating live action Spider-Man sequences we've seen to date Beyond the spectacle, the emotional journey is just as compelling. Peter is navigating life alone, burdened by loss, and increasingly embracing the spider over the man. It gives Tom Holland the opportunity to showcase an impressive emotional range, making this arguably his strongest performance since taking on the role. That said, while the film's first half is exceptional, the focus shifts around the midway point, and the momentum begins to falter. The energetic, street-level Spider-Man story gives way as the film's apparent antagonist takes centre stage. It's the one aspect that didn't quite live up to my expectations - although, admittedly, those expectations may have been set exceptionally high. Even with a few shortcomings, 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' is an exhilarating, heartfelt blockbuster that delivers both spectacle and emotion in equal measure. It's a thrilling return for the web-slinger and stands comfortably among the very best live action Spider-Man films ever put to screen. Full thoughts in this review

    Spider-Man: Brand New Day

  4. Jul 19

    The Odyssey

    'The Odyssey' is epic in every sense of the word. Christopher Nolan has once again delivered something truly special with this three-hour fantasy action-drama, and it's going to take something special to top it this year. While Homer's story has endured for centuries, Nolan applies his distinctive filmmaking style to make a timeless, familiar tale feel remarkably fresh. The result is a film that balances breathtaking spectacle with an emotionally rich drama at its core. With a cast packed full of stars, it would be easy for some performances to get lost in the pack. Instead, every actor makes a lasting impression, with no one feeling underused or giving anything less than their all. Leading the charge is Matt Damon, who delivers a career defining performance as Odysseus; bringing equal measures of strength, vulnerability, and determination to the legendary hero. As impressive as the action sequences and visual grandeur are, it's the quieter, character driven moments that leave the greatest impact. Themes of identity, redemption, and the consequences of our choices give the film its emotional weight, transforming Odysseus' long journey home into a brutal and deeply human odyssey of endurance, sacrifice, and self-discovery. 'The Odyssey' deserves to be in the conversation for best Christopher Nolan release. It's a perfect example of why we go to the cinema; to be immersed and transported within exceptional storytelling and vision. Full thoughts in this review.

    The Odyssey

  5. Jul 2

    Supergirl

    'Supergirl' is the second entry in the all-new DCU, and unfortunately, it leaves a lot to be desired. Coming away from it, I just wasn't a fan. After being thoroughly impressed by James Gunn's 'Superman' last year, I was completely on board with this new era for DC. There's still plenty of time for the universe to find its footing, but sadly, 'Supergirl' does very little to build excitement for what's next. Instead, it falls into many of the same traps that have plagued the superhero genre in recent years. Anyone already suffering from superhero fatigue will likely feel a strong sense of déjà vu. Almost everything that gives modern superhero films a bad reputation is present here: a clunky script, underdeveloped character arcs, painfully awkward dialogue, forgettable villains, and action sequences so overloaded with CGI and green screen that they become little more than visual noise. There are flashes where Milly Alcock gets the chance to shine. As a fan of hers, it's disappointing to see her given so little to work with, because she clearly has the screen presence to make this role her own. With a stronger script and a more compelling story, there's every reason to believe she could become an excellent Supergirl. This isn't the follow up James Gunn and co will have wanted. In fact, it often feels like a film that would have been more at home in the now disbanded DCEU. than as the next chapter of a fresh cinematic universe. Perhaps the muted and largely negative reaction will encourage the studio to course correct and strengthen future projects. For the sake of the DCU, let's hope so. Full thoughts in this review.

    Supergirl

  6. Jun 24

    Toy Story 5

    The toys are back in town, and this time they're facing their biggest challenge yet: technology. As screens begin to take over, 'Toy Story 5' explores the idea in a surprisingly thoughtful and entertaining way. There will always be debate over whether any more 'Toy Story' films should have been made. Afterall, the original trilogy delivered what felt like the perfect ending. Yet, against the odds, this fifth instalment finds enough fresh ground to justify its existence. While the threat of technology looms large throughout the story, the film's message is far more nuanced than a simple 'technology is bad' argument. Instead, it presents a balanced conversation about its role in children's lives, exploring both the benefits and drawbacks of an increasingly screen driven world. The film also gives Jessie a well deserved central role, grounding the story in the themes that made the franchise so beloved in the first place: growing up, finding your place, and navigating change. Not every idea lands, and the reduced presence of Woody and Buzz is certainly felt, but 'Toy Story 5' remains a charming and worthwhile addition to the series that delivers plenty of heart and entertainment throughout. Full thoughts in this quick review.

    Toy Story 5

  7. Jun 16

    Disclosure Day

    'Disclosure Day' was high on my most anticipated list. Another summer blockbuster from the cinematic genius that is Steven Spielberg - what could possibly go wrong?.... Oh boy. This is easily the biggest disappointment I've felt towards a film in quite some time. The premise is undeniably fascinating, but it's handled in a surprisingly dull and lifeless way. The film spends so much time hiding inside its mystery box that it forgets to actually entertain. Building a story around the revelation that aliens exist opens up countless narrative possibilities, which makes it all the more deflating to watch the film settle for something so uninspired. What's perhaps most surprising is how absent Spielberg's usual sense of magic, awe, and wonder feels. Instead, we're left with bland characters, ineffective villains, and a story that never fully capitalises on its enormous potential. When you have Spielberg directing and a cast featuring Emily Blunt, Colin Firth, Josh O'Connor, and Colman Domingo, expectations are naturally high, yet 'Disclosure Day' (or more appropriately, 'Disappointment Day') falls well short of them. Full thoughts in this review.

    Disclosure Day

  8. Jun 11

    Backrooms

    'Backrooms' has been on everyone's lips since its release. Partly because it's helmed by 20 year old Kane Parsons, the youngest director ever to take on a project of this scale, but also because of the enduring legacy of the Backrooms phenomenon and its unlikely journey from internet folklore to the big screen. Full disclosure, I wasn't familiar with the online discourse or mythology that grew out of the infamous image, nor had I seen any of the YouTube shorts that expanded its universe. Still, the trailer was enough to pique my interest. Coming away from it, I'm conflicted. There are elements here that are genuinely superb: the lead performances are strong, it's beautifully shot, the sound design is outstanding, and at times it's deeply unnerving. Yet it's also something of a slog. There were stretches where my attention drifted and, frankly, I found myself bored. The film has little interest in providing answers, which will undoubtedly appeal to some viewers, but it ultimately frustrated me. It's at its strongest when it fully embraces the endless, disorienting nightmare of the Backrooms themselves. By contrast, its attempts to unravel the protagonists' personal stories feel underdeveloped and lacking in emotional weight. 'Backrooms' is unsettling and atmospheric, but it demands patience from its audience. Whether that investment pays off will largely depend on how much you're willing to embrace the mystery. Full thoughts in this review.

    Backrooms
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Waffling about films and tv. facebook.com/joebloggsaboutfilms insta: @joebloggsaboutfilms email: joebloggsaboutfilms@gmail.com

Information

  • Creator
    Joe Hobson
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    326
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Joe Bloggs About Films 2021
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    Joe Bloggs About Films