Here are our latest reviews of films on DVD.
Pre-2022 Film Reviews
American Girl (2021)
Panos Kotzathanasis @ Asian Movie Pulse
- Excerpt: Even if a bit excessive in its drama, “American Girl” is an exceptional movie that shows the difficulties of reverse diaspora in a rather realistic fashion, while carrying enough drama to deem the movie quite entertaining.
Battle Royale (2000)
Panos Kotzathanasis @ Asian Movie Pulse
- Excerpt: “Battle Royale” stands as a definite cult movie, from Takeshi Kitano’s presence to the way it inspired Tarantino, to the violent portrayal of youth and sociopolitical criticism unfolds against a backdrop of dark humor and an evocative soundtrack. It also provides a a lasting testament to Fukasaku’s artistry and cultural impact and an ideal swan song for one of the most significant filmmakers ever to come out of Japan.
The Fourth Portrait (2010)
Panos Kotzathanasis @ Asian Movie Pulse
- Excerpt: Apart from those minor issues, though, “The Fourth Portrait” is an excellent movie that bolsters an intriguing story, exquisite cinematography, and is rather well-acted and directed, in another testament to Chung Mong-hong filmmaking abilities.
The Golden Coach (1952)
- Excerpt: [The Golden Coach] wasn’t what most people were looking for from a night at the movies in 1952, yet it’s a perfectly wonderful film if you take it on its own terms.
Kagemusha (1980)
Panos Kotzathanasis @ Asian Movie Pulse
- Excerpt: As the final frame fades, “Kagemusha” stands as a testament to Akira Kurosawa’s indomitable spirit in filmmaking. Overcoming financial hurdles and casting challenges, his vision materialized into a cinematic masterpiece. The film’s intricate script, a dance of identities and Shakespearean echoes, unfolds through a stellar cast, led by Tatsuya Nakadai’s dual portrayal. From the symbolic opening to the haunting final battle, “Kagemusha” remains a triumph, a brushstroke on the canvas of cinema’s finest.
Kingsman: The Golden Circle (2017)
Dan Stalcup @ The Goods: Film Reviews
- Excerpt: The Golden Circle has an unrefined kookiness to it, as if we’re finally getting the loose, weird, unfiltered impulses of Matthew Vaughn. It’s not quite good, but it offers some perverse satisfaction of a blockbuster gone off the rails, the same way I’m always compelled to poke a bruise or pick a scab.
Marvin Seth and Stanley/False Confessions/For the Plasma (2012/2017/2014)
Michael Barrett @ metafilm.ovid.tv
Picpus, Cecile Is Dead (1943, 1944)
Ran (1985)
Panos Kotzathanasis @ Asian Movie Pulse
- Excerpt: Amid financial struggles and personal loss, Kurosawa crafted a masterpiece. Echoing Shakespearean themes, the narrative explores the perils of authority and familial discord. Resilience amid adversities birthed Oscar recognition, with accolades for artistry and direction. “Ran” stands as a cross-cultural testament to timeless storytelling, where Kurosawa’s indomitable spirit shapes a profound meditation on power, chaos, and the enduring resonance of Shakespearean influence.
Rashomon (1950)
Panos Kotzathanasis @ Asian Movie Pulse
- Excerpt: “Rashomon,” a cinematic triumph by Akira Kurosawa, not only propelled Japanese cinema onto the global stage but also solidified Kurosawa’s status as a visionary. Adapting Akutagawa’s tales, Kurosawa skillfully delves into truth, honor, and human nature
Righting Wrongs (1986)
Panos Kotzathanasis @ Asian Movie Pulse
- Excerpt: “Righting Wrongs” is an excellent martial arts film that both thrives on its action and includes enough drama and context to elevate it much above the standards of the category.
Seven Samurai (1954)
Panos Kotzathanasis @ Asian Movie Pulse
- Excerpt: Seven Samurai” remains a timeless masterpiece, transcending the 1950s Golden Age of Japanese cinema. Akira Kurosawa’s profound storytelling, elaborate direction, and disillusioned portrayal of samurais shattered conventions. The realistic depiction of villagers added layers of complexity. Impressive battle scenes, masterful cinematography, and outstanding acting, especially Toshiro Mifune’s and Takashi Shimura’s brilliant performances, forged an enduring legacy. Kurosawa’s editing prowess, evident in the climactic sequence, cemented the film’s status as a timeless classic, echoing the eternal struggle for justice and sacrifice in feudal Japan.
Sophie Scholl: The Final Days (2005)
- Excerpt: Fred Breinersdorfer’s screenplay for Sophie Scholl: The Final Days is true to its title, focusing on Scholl during her last few days on earth rather than trying to cover her entire life, as more conventional biopics often do. For this reason, it’s mainly a character study of a young woman whose steadfastness and determination belie her 21 years.
Stoker (2013)
Panos Kotzathanasis @ Asian Movie Pulse
- Excerpt: “Stoker” may not reach the level of Park’s Korean productions, but remains a rather competent film that definitely has a place in the Korean’s canon.
X-Men: First Class (2011)
Dan Stalcup @ The Goods: Film Reviews
- Excerpt: The most important thing X-Men: First Class has going for it is a terrific young cast with phenomenal chemistry… The production is a lot of fun, too — a glossy, Mad Men-inspired, early-’60s concoction of handsome costumes, mahogany colors, and luxurious sets.
You Are the Apple of My Eye (2011)
Panos Kotzathanasis @ Asian Movie Pulse
- Excerpt: “You Are the Apple of My Eye” is an excellent teen romance, and although somewhat excessive on occasion (the masturbation in particular) and despite the fact that Ko shot better movies later on, remains his most memorable work.
