Joe Bloggs About Films (2024)

22/07/2024

'Twisters' is the long-awaited sequel to the much-adored 1996 original. With nearly 30 years passed, it always worries me when these 'legacy' sequels drop as more often than not, they are disappointing and just a quick cash grab for studios. However, this doesn’t apply to this latest release courtesy of director Lee Isaac Chung.

The film ticks all the boxes that you would expect, and does its best to capture that ‘old school blockbuster’ vibe of the original with some impressive spectacles. There are flaws; the CGI at times can be clunky, and the lack of practical effects does take the sting out, but the overall plot and performances from its leading trio, Daisy Edgar Jones, Glen Powell and Anthony Ramos are really strong and make this movie as entertaining as it is – all storms to one side.

Full thoughts in this episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7noNvQh7hWG0eeTWRrB4ct?si=HrhkrHyyS5mpMMPjCTPtmg

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000662975490

16/07/2024

'Longlegs' is taking audiences and critics by storm – and it’s easy to see why. Written and directed by Osgood Perkins, the film homes in on tension and atmosphere to create one of the most unsettling viewing experiences I’ve had.

Nic Cage is unrecognisable, yet brilliant – equally brilliant is his opposite Maika Monroe, who brings in a unique performance that only elevates her character the further into this mystery she goes. But probably the most effective aspect of the film is the way it has been shot, courtesy of cinematographer Andrés Arochi. Simply put, it’s one of the best-looking films this year with sequences and imagery that I’ve still been unable to shake since viewing.

Full thoughts in this review.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3qIUz43WRIoFgqtAJvfkax?si=ptwPTuoORCaqiDSaQvOuxg

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000662443013

08/07/2024

Steven Spielberg and Tom Cruise joined forces once again following their success with Minority Report, to work on a chilling adaptation of one of my favourite novels; HG Wells' classic 'War of the Worlds'.

Having worked on sci fi films in the past, it was the first time audiences got to see a truly terrifying invasion courtesy of Spielberg. The film has some absolutely jaw dropping set pieces, and at times is a masterclass in tension and suspense. Cruise is on top form, along with new ideas and twists on the original story, its easy to see why the film became fourth most successful film of 2005 - as well as one of my personal favourites from the acclaimed director and lead star.

Full thoughts in this revisit.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2W6u18y7KcM1N4oeYgOB0S?si=qg-zW4KgTDqsGgONI13-LQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000661563442

https://rss.com/podcasts/joebloggsaboutmovies/1559963/

01/07/2024

Michael Sarnoski directs the new spin off in the 'A Quiet Place' saga; 'Day One'. As the title suggests, the film drops audiences into the day of the initial invasion from these menacing creatures, showcasing the horror as New York, one of the loudest cities in the world, is brought to silence.

With terrific performances from Lupita Nyong'o and Joseph Quinn, an emotional script, as well as some beautiful effects and cinematography, 'Day One' is a fantastic addition to the saga that brings the terror to a much larger scale with this new backdrop.

Full thoughts in this episode

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5eB91vMHlUZyHeHD3hUVUe?si=h23ACcUZTp-6t1mY_rOvOQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000660785436

24/06/2024

William Eubank finally brought us 'Underwater' in 2020. After much delay, the film managed to make its way out to the world before cinemas closed due to the pandemic. Though the film didn't do well at the box office, nor really with audiences, I was a fan of the Kristen Stewart lead flick.

'Underwater' definitely feels familiar with its sets and backdrop, and the nods and homages to classics such as 'Alien' and 'The Abyss' are littered throughout. But even with these nods, the film still stands on its own feet, creating fear and tension with every reveal in this mysterious sci fi horror.

Full thoughts in this revisit.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0KjYDCwAddsXW5P0oSSsKc?si=GIeuw7k4Sti5yTXA4N6cPQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000660071761

17/06/2024

Released earlier this year, and recently dropping on Disney+, was Arkasha Stevenson’s ‘The First Omen’; a prequel to the horror classic from 1976.

With a brilliant performance from the films lead, Nell Tiger Free, as well as some incredibly dark and haunting imagery, the film does stand above a lot of the recent thriller/horrors from over the years. Stevenson has managed to create a film that pays homage to the original, as well as something that can stand on its own feet - which is brilliant for a directors feature length debut.

Though 'The First Omen' ticks a lot of boxes, it still does have a sense of predictability running through, which in some way ruins the overall experience. But taking nothing away from the strengths the film includes, as there are some things in here that you just cant unsee.

Full thoughts in this episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4sue9h13y9t5qhG8SYHaAT?si=GgmM1EAuTYaIsg2PfMakog

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000659262865

10/06/2024

Richard Linklater brings us ;'Hit Man'. Inspired by true events, the film brings audiences into the life, as well as showcasing the many faces, of Gary Johnson; a professor by day, whilst also playing the role of hit man for local police.

With some decent enough twists and turns, the film doesn't shy away from keeping you on your toes - however, there are elements that do seem predictable in ex*****on. The leads, Glen Powell and Adria Arjona, are great- and you will absolutely have a good time, though it did leave me hoping for a tad more.

Full thoughts in this review

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4BXm5qLsJyYFUosa29ytCR?si=NCo1bDZITniyM59o8nmHFQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000658449150

03/06/2024

George Miller returns to the 'Mad Max' saga with Furiosa; a prequel story surrounding the character introduced in Fury Road. This time played by Anya Taylor Joy, in brilliant fashion, we see a younger Furiosa seek revenge on the one who took it all from her.

At times, the film can leave you breathless with its epic action set pieces. It is extremely pleasant on the eye, and Miller has worked wonders to expand further on an already well developed world of his. The wastelands have never looked as good, Hemsworth is wild, and Taylor Joy brings in the ferocity within this latest thrill ride.

Full thoughts in this review

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2fZySSHiNNCuMgXxS5TJYN?si=E61dzdGdRKqn9nbui9EjGA

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000657679567

20/05/2024

Released in 2001, 'Jurassic Park III' sadly didn't' reach the same heights as its predecessors. With a very troubled production, it’s evident that the film didn't really know what it wanted to do or say - but as a kid, I enjoyed the film nonetheless!

In this revisit, I'll be diving in to the films background, development and overall thoughts on this messy affair that saw Sam Neill's Dr Alan Grant be whisked off to Isla Sorna, where more dinosaur mayhem, plot conveniently, unfolds.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2xVhlEoAS6brGSH7iYhhql?si=rXiJluj_S0SuI6ivBNXK7g

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000656159235

16/05/2024

John Krasinski brings us 'IF', a beautiful story which sees a young girl make it her mission to reunite IF's with their respected children.

There is so much to enjoy and love about this film; its heartwarming, emotional, funny, but deep within its core are many themes ranging from love, growing up and grief.

With a fantastic script, exceptional score (courtesy of the brilliant Michael Giacchino), stunning visual effects and brilliant actors in Cailey Fleming and Ryan Reynolds, 'IF' has certainly cemented itself as one of the films of the year.

Full thoughts in this review

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Qx4QSzzeDmqZPqhpZxR54?si=pNiBynCJSjid5SvnRcykQQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000655770596

13/05/2024

David Leitch brings us 'The Fall Guy'; a love letter to stunt work in film. Along for the journey is Ryan Gosling, who I adore in comedic roles, and the ever brilliant Emily Blunt - both bringing their A game in a match made in heaven.

Though the overall plot isn't as good as I hoped for, it still has some fantastic action set pieces, as well as laughs for all with its meta jokes regarding the film industry. Biggest highlight though goes to Gosling and Blunt whose chemistry oozes into every scene, making it all the more entertaining.

Full thoughts in this review.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/33z8qgzWaI7WRPXbfM0It1?si=zVYZNHR2SN2Z8RArzk2zkw

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000655406460

09/05/2024

Time to get the party hats, because its EPISODE 200!

All the waffling has led to this, and joining me on this celebratory episode are my good friends, and fellow film enthusiasts, Ben, Arun & Andrew, as we have a good ol' natter about all things cinema.

Thanks to everyone who has supported the pod since it started!

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2ceJWB2Zp7bDEvR12fM17i?si=IWp3199fSdGagKDBB7fL_A

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000655028427

04/05/2024

'The Phantom Menace' celebrates its 25th Anniversary; a film that defined a generation, even if it was met with mixed responses from fans and critics.

Being a 90's kid, this film was everything to me growing up. Though the flaws stick out more the older, and dare I say wiser I have become, there's still some dazzling moments within this film that are up there as some of my favourite Star Wars sequences.

Full thoughts in this revisit

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6HRtRvKkYE9NoNRmq9K5uO?si=iaDL0OASSu6wxJukC-G3uQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000654513430

25/04/2024

Alex Garland delivers with another stunner, 'Civil War'. giving audiences an up close and personal look at a nation violently divided.

With some breathtaking and pulsating, and at times, anxiety inducing moments, 'Civil War' is a gripping feature that sits firmly in the best of 2024.

Full thoughts in this review

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1cTuSeI93S1zTqP9eDVva2?si=LeB1c3jKQaS5BJLKawZ7wg

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000653577869

22/04/2024

After years of waiting, we finally have answers - and a conclusion - to the story of Rick Grimes.. for now anyways! 'The Ones Who Live' is the epic love story between two of tv's big hitters; Rick and Michonne, as they search for eachother, and themselves, in this dark and unprecedented world.

With an increased budget and gripping storytelling, 'The Ones Who Live' breathed new life into The Walking Dead Universe, and definitely surpassed many of my expectations. However, it wasn't all plain sailing, and certainly has a few bumps I can't quite ignore.

Full thoughts in this review!

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4QF8V5XZGd8y2P4ABqItOW?si=NeWUWTfBTOeXPSWKCUddjQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000653220699

18/04/2024

The directorial debut from Dev Patel is, to put it simply, epic. 'Monkey Man' brings the action, grit and culture in a stomping feature that is easily one of the best of 2024.

The film excels on so many levels; from the fight choreography, dazzling colours, and the performance itself from Patel is just outstanding. A film that needs to be seen on the biggest screen.

Full thoughts in this episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2nont0h8WuPXx5rMOhSAou?si=WN2Y0H-XT5yTQyjFNAh8og

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000652844758

15/04/2024

With the highly anticipated release of 'Alien: Romulus' due in August, I thought I would revisit and discuss the highly divisive 'Alien: Covenant' released in 2017 - because WHY NOT.

Ridley Scott returned again to the directors chair, however the films overall narrative and tone is a tad jarring considering it merged both the Prometheus plot along with that of being a prequel to Alien.

But in the midst of the messiness, I still had a real great time with the film. Michael Fassbender's portrayal as David was excellent in Prometheus, but even better in Covenant. The film feels darker in tone in places, however I found the themes of creation and existence extremely compelling throughout.

Full thoughts in this revisit

https://open.spotify.com/episode/02XuA7RaZob4rglHLLe18v?si=A-XAIJRsTKuacxmDfg7iXw

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000652472058

11/04/2024

The fifth instalment of the Monsterverse has hit the screens and is doing VERY well at the box office. This time, Kong and Godzilla team up to take down a new threat lurking in the depths of Hollow Earth in 'Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire'.

With inspiration from the Showa era, and some 80s flicks, GxK absolutely has moments that are dazzling and, frankly, hilarious as they cause mayhem and destruction. But aside from the fun action, there’s not an awful lot more going for this film, and feels essentially like we’re now getting Fast and Furious films.. but with Monsters!

Full thoughts in this episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1gFzEYouTqrmFwt4LE10VP?si=bTaksvvvRc-QveT056_mPQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000652129853

08/04/2024

Having very much enjoyed the previous release, 'Ghostbusters: Afterlife', going as far to say probably the best sequel since the 1984 original, I was certainly up for another sequel of ghosts and ghouls being busted.. As they say, be careful what you wish for! 'Frozen Empire' sadly falls quite short on a number of things that makes this one of the weaker sequels that has been delivered in this franchise.

With a few ok moments sprinkled here and there, the film is stuffed with returning characters, exposition, plot conveniences, and just not that good of a big bad.

Full thoughts in this episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0oEEec9LD7aXURKYJcCjyn?si=XyJeWp73SDqgRqnmbQDU8A

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000651751107

04/04/2024

Inspired by true events, 'Wicked Little Letters' follows two neighbours, pitted against each other due to foul mouthed letters arriving on peoples’ doorsteps.

Though crude, funny and charming, the film also has serious undertones of equality between men and women, and women’s rights in general; executed and delivered wonderfully by director Thea Sharrock and the films leads Olivia Coleman and Jesse Buckley – both of which are fantastic in this release.

Full thoughts in this episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4C8KzZJ7h4QB5lpzIIeqCz?si=iH06JTRbT3m2iILBC-mdfg

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000651416029

01/04/2024

We return to the desert planet Arrakis for another visual masterpiece courtesy of Denis Villeneuve and team. 'Dune: Part Two' takes everything you loved from the first, in terms of scale, imagery, practical and visual effects, and ups it to a whole other level.

With tremendous performance from leads Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, as well as the brilliant supporting cast, 'Dune Part Two' certainly is a great sequel, and one that will be spoken about for a long. long time.

Full thoughts in this episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Rxntg3TVuVJ0q2uyKLOGm?si=GyMb7KWQQDKdTtJz2PKU1w

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000651037257

25/03/2024

Hey all, I took a bit of time off for personal reasons.

New episodes starting next week - more details in the link below.

Thanks again for your support.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3DCmyeIFIdK4ZeHJtsQY0K?si=tpTuf1NYS06pdExgYU1zvQ

19/02/2024

Next on the list of terrible Marvel movies courtesy of Sony; Madame Web.

Disastrous from start to finish. Full painful thoughts in this episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4xPYt18KWM3n4KtcmX83Ut?si=Yb9P_Io_Sf-88B-3ADVpqQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000645879307

12/02/2024

I am very late to the party on this one, but I have finally caught Yorgos Lanthimos' 'Poor Things' – and good lord was this film excellent.

It is crystal clear why this film has received 11 nominations at the upcoming Oscars. The script is fantastic, set and costume is stunning, a phenomenal performance from Emma Stone, as too stunning cinematography included that brings this wacky and wonderful world to life.

One of the better character pieces I’ve seen in a very long time! Full thoughts in this episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7AMIFeNINcmNCyej1DRM4L?si=x1xkvu1sSLG6fOWQDGJsEg

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000645004611

05/02/2024

Matthew Vaughn brings us 'Argylle', another action spy comedy, starring Bryce Dallas Howard and Sam Rockwell (as well as a number of big names) and I can absolutely see why the film is dividing audiences and critics.

The film keeps you guessing with its constant pulling of the rug, and at times this is great – but other times, it just feels a little too out there. It’s silly, flash and full of fun action sequences, but the hideous CGI and green screen really make you work for it.

Full thoughts in this episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1q4tPhm7yMOpTbkd5luUmR?si=1KMg3mJbQUWiCviFrRSlbw

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000644232450

29/01/2024

Finally hitting UK cinemas is 'All Of Us Strangers', and I cannot stress enough to moviegoers – go see this film. It might only be January, but the film is straight away up there as one of the best films of the year with its excellent script as well as stellar performances from the whole cast, in particular, Andrew Scott, who was exceptional.

It’s a beautiful but heartbreaking story surrounding identity, true love, grief, loneliness and family.

Full thoughts in this episode

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1pjsmnbzX8PabhEXb87cev?si=wJr0F6VqQoqZ5DZHBduonQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000643387981

22/01/2024

Steven Spielberg returned to the directors’ chair for the highly anticipated sequel to Jurassic Park; 'The Lost World'. Released in 1997 to mixed reviews, the film upped the adventure, tension and amazing work from Stan Winston, as well as ILM.

The first two Jurassic films are, still to this day, my favourites of the bunch (barring The Lost World’s clunky third act). The work from Spielberg is as usual flawless, the dynamic between the films leads are great fun, and though the film makes some big changes from the novel, it still also honours the source material; making 'The Lost World' the best sequel of the saga.

Full thoughts in this revisit.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0pUUTYCRs2mqHCUHIAqIUO?si=zoPJZdIQRDmDDJ42rLDfbw

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000642537178

15/01/2024

Finishing its first season, ‘Monarch: Legacy of Monsters’ certainly took fans and audiences on a spin! If you’re a fan of the Monsterverse, there is certainly key elements and parts that will really draw you in and put you at the edge of your seat. However, if you’re an average fan to this universe, well... this show probably isn’t going to make you love the big kaiju’s any more so!

The series certainly had its highlights, with stunning visuals, revelations, and as mentioned on the first review I did for the show, a heck of a lot of mystery and intrigue. But sadly, the show falls short with its characters and murky middle section, where you can’t help but think this series should have been shorter.

Full thoughts in this 2nd part review!

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6WLeugyZmSGywzCgWcSDWV?si=l-_4jKMDQF-WguK0mYXVFw

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000641731588

08/01/2024

Taika Waititi returns to the director’s chair with ‘Next Goal Wins’. Based on real events and adapted from the 2014 documentary of the same name, the story follows the American Samoa national football team on the back of the world breaking 31-0 loss in a World Cup qualifier. Brought in is Thomas Rongen, played brilliantly by Michael Fassbender, who aims to turn the tide – or at least, get the team to score 1 goal.

The film celebrates the Polynesian culture whilst also balancing itself well with quick gags around the culture and lifestyle. Ultimately though, it is the people and characters within the island that make this an extremely enjoyable and fun watch.

Full thoughts in this episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6U7wR3WWdpS0LCAOPFDuct?si=3cZSWNktQ4qyZgqcYK9WEw

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000640893720

01/01/2024

‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom' closes off the bumpy ride that was the DCEU. Though the film doesn't hit all the right marks, there's a charm about this entry that gave me that feel of an early 2000's superhero flick with its campy tone, as opposed to being too serious.

The action is fun, the buddy comedy is a laugh, but ultimately it’s let down by certain plot developments and (as usual) questionable CGI.

Full thoughts in this episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5QyB20BQp0e0PkQT12pZkc?si=nqXn3f0tR1SCsjuW2WH78Q

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/joe-bloggs-about-films/id1572838461?i=1000640228844

Joe Bloggs About Films