Keanu Reeves

Something's Gotta Give:

Storyline:
A swinger on the cusp of being a senior citizen with a taste for young women falls in love with an accomplished woman closer to his age.

Though going in with severely low expectations for this film may be the reason for a surprisingly not half-bad film, Something’s Gotta Give is no award winner, yet it is a relief from the unvarying romances that become a routine.

While the only thing that simply did not work was the casting of Jack Nicholson. Everyone was on beat with their character - from fitting their stereotypical image to providing their own cheesy implications of said categories, except him. Pretending to be a playboy that everyone wants, these were merely words telling you how to perceive him instead of his actions to back it up.

Though he is the hardest portion to rationalize, this has nothing to do with the ongoing chemistry between him and Diane Keaton or his performance. The connection among the cast was in unison, as there was no coercion to forcefully make the audience believe the relationships or actors were fake.

Adding in some quick one-liners and a story that is too good to be true but in a good way, this is entertaining, lighthearted, and moves at a quick pace. Having much worse and much better than this film, for what it's worth, it's diverting.

6.5/10

7.5/10

Johnny Mnemonic:

Storyline:
A data courier, carrying a data package inside his head, must deliver it before he dies from the burden or is killed by the Yakuza.

Though I'd expect nothing less from Keanu Reeves in a terrible 90s sci-fi film, surprisingly, I was longing for something more than what was delivered. Not predicting in any way shape or form a critically better plot, but at least a more enjoyable story.

The only correct way to describe this production, action, and script is horrific. Creating an utterly hard-to-rationalized world to live in, there is nothing within to either feel in the moment or look from the outside in - which is the problem, inconsistency.

Feeling in some unique ways like a video game and others like a wannabe cinema experience, neither is powerful enough to shine through the cloud of random aspects. Throwing characteristics in with every opportunity, the details, in turn, were overloaded and confusing, not in-depth and intricate.

This is just a bad film that was astounding it was actually made. The initial concept is something worthwhile, yet the implementation and the way about were not the most engaging. Targeting some of the blame toward when this was made, yes this outdated, yet old or new, nothing can save a simply defective plot.

3/10

The BAM! rating is a newly integrated rating scale in addition to the critic rating each film gets. BAM! is simply the entertainment value that is solely based on whether or not a film is worth watching. A film can have a high BAM! rating and a low critic rating or vice versa.

3/10

John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum

Storyline:
John Wick has a limited amount of time until his bounty for $14 Million is fair game for everyone. Once it's known to the public, he is fighting for his life.

From a standalone perspective, John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum is remarkable in its descriptive cinematography, showcasing lighting, and crisp sound. However, looking at this as the third installment to an already well-established series, this being the best of the trilogy is an argument I gladly stand behind.

As expected, the action and fighting choreography feel incredibly real and responsive to real-world situations. But this time around, this proves to still manage to develop creative and interactive fights that are not only unique and logical but enjoyable, above all else. Not to mention how apparently dedicated Keanu Reeves is to providing the most realistic product, this places the audience in his now completely off the rails revenge world.

The beauty and irony of it all, though, is the pure hatred that once got this character to this place is now filled with even more resentment than anyone once would have thought. Simply implementing an incredibly enjoyable, high-intensity/adrenaline, and continuously engaging story, this is encapsulating, but it is also quite well-made.

With new additions that have chemistry and choreography that is just as well kept as Wick, the normally independent protagonist was complimented by a memorable cast of Halle Berry. Furthermore, an antagonist that is just as effortlessly involved as well, despite his cheesy and corny moments, he created a refreshing comedic tone that didn't lessen the serious times.

Very rarely is any film in continuation in a series better than the first, but when they happen, they are sure to please both the first watch and the many more deserving re-watches and analysis that comes with it.

8.5/10

9/10

John Wick: Chapter 2

Storyline:
After returning to the criminal underworld to repay a debt, John Wick discovers that a large bounty has been put on his life.

Despite having some pretty big shoes to fill following its absolutely wicked predecessor, John Wick: Chapter 2 may not come close to comparing or being a better film, but it's relevant and has its noteworthy moments.

Something needs to be said and then said again for the utterly demolishing opening sequence. Initiating the fear and power of the character from the get-go, the audience is only waiting to soak in the dominance of Wick, which he most certainly delivers.

Given the simplest reason this character is well-loved/clicks is the realism and logical standpoint of such a protagonist, on top of the total power, command, and matchless control that co-exists. That said, the objectification and evolution this film strives for have logical reasons to support, yet the implementation gets slightly out of hand.

Given this develops to catch its footing in the finale and final moments on screen and the gist of what was shown is nothing to be ashamed of, this is rather just not as acclaimed as it once was.

What I will say, though, is not to get me wrong. The fighting, stunts, action, and all the gore that comes with it are included with the utmost authority. While you can NEVER go wrong with either a John Wick or Keanu Reeves film alike, with anything, some are better than others.

7.5/10

8/10

The Lake House:

Storyline:
A romance that develops between an architect and a doctor who are separated by time. The only way they can communicate is through letters from a lake house.

Looking back on this film after it's done shows how incredibly predictable and foreseen it becomes. However, with clear storytelling and a drive for the hopeless romantics, this is just bad enough to be rewatchable, though arguably on the border of just bad.

The performances, to put it lightly, are not anyone's best work. Yet, all things considered, it's not like this is anything praised for a reason, it is an overly dramatic, plot-holed-filled romance. Taking into account the type of film it is, while it wasn't great, it didn't bring it down. Never disturbing the storyline, this feels forged but doesn't hinder its entertainment value.

In all honesty, the concept is pretty unique. For being as cheesy as it is, it is an interesting and distinguishable idea to run with. Though missing vital pieces along the way and becoming a tad bit confusing at times, for what it's worth, it never loses its element of suspense.

While there are better things to watch, if you need a feel-good, unbothered story, you can never go wrong with Keanu Reeves, more so a Keanu Reeves romcom.

5/10

7/10

Always Be My Maybe:

Storyline:
Two childhood friends who drift apart in their adult years find their way back. Finding their feelings for each other are stronger than they thought, they reconnect.

This surprisingly odd, rough-around-the-edges rom-com is unexpectedly made well. Though there are minor aspects that have their issues, they come as more of an inconvenience, rather than a disruption. With a perfect balance of deadpan humor and real-life interactions, this is one of the freshest and severely underrated products in the genre.

Beginning with more instances than not falling into a wasteful pit of becoming too cliche and predictable, it was on the verge of a being too slow and repetitive. However, taking a turn for the better and revolving around a relationship that’s so awkward it’s sweet, this takes a modern, original twist on a typical, familiar story.

The character development was as satisfying as it was genuine. While this is predictable, there is no faking authentic chemistry to keep it afloat. However, many supporting characters were just not cutting it. Filling the stereotypical and advocate side roles whose personalities are unsought, you can’t force such a strong, loud character in an unfitting storyline, like this.

The predictable and expected feelings you want from a film like this are exactly this. Featuring talent deeper than the strictly by the book rom-com standards, Always Be My Maybe presents a skillful soundtrack, lifelike dialogue, and a concept that centers around something personable.

8/10

8.5/10

Destination Wedding:

Storyline:
Frank and Lindsay meet on their way to a destination wedding and come to find out that they both share a common trait- hating everyone and everything.

The acting, cinematography, and quite frankly, the entire production is very awkward and moderately uncomfortable but made this way for a reason. Creating a realistic and personable feeling because of it, not only is this lifelike, yet features a straightforward feeling that doesn't compare to anything.

While the overwhelmingly slow pace did not help the blocky and inconsistent notion, it persuades the audience to focus on what's at stake -- a quite real, human interaction. Having prolonged dialogue and choppy edits is not for everyone, yet it changes the pace of the heavily structured genre to provide what genuine conversations are like.

Focusing on the not-so-stereotypical characters you normally see within these types of plots, this is cleverly executed. Ending with a wholesome theme and meanings that are expressed throughout its odd but intriguing storytelling, this may be unusual and not highly rated but can provide a laugh and a worry-free watch. Not to mention, a film does not have to be good to be worth your time or a hidden gem.

6.5/10

7.5/10

Hardball:

Storyline:
An aimless man who is scalping tickets, gambling, and drinking, agrees to coach a Little League team as a condition of getting a loan.

The question this has you asking over and over again is: is this a good film? The answer is clearly and cinematically, no, but why do I like it? Instead, while it is so oversimplified and rough around the edges, it is enjoyably bad and the missing piece to add to your BAM! films.

Becoming exceedingly predictable and filled with not a shred of genuine feeling, Hardball surprisingly finds a way to hold your attention throughout its runtime. This may not put the audience in the character's shoes, but still finds a way to be alluring among its forged vibe.

Although anything Keanu Reeves is in has to be at least watchable, there's no denying he adds the charm to this otherwise mediocre screenplay. For all performances alike, nothing was particularly exceptional. Quite honestly delivering nothing but flat and surface portrayals, the casting might have looked the part but didn't act it.

With a cheesy theme, a rushed finale, and too many plot holes to truly make sense, this film embodies the easygoing guilty pleasure product. Having the full circle of happy, sad, funny, and intense moments, is not quality, but is exciting.

4/10

7/10

The Matrix Resurrections:

Storyline:
Return to a world of two realities: one, everyday life; the other, what lies behind it. To find out if his reality is a construct, Mr. Anderson will have to choose to follow the white rabbit once more.

Scrounging for every ounce of originality and purpose, The Matrix Resurrections brings back the nostalgia of seeing Neo and Trinity together and thinks it is enough to make a decent film. Taking for granted the revolutionary concept this once constructed, there is only one question that arises - after all this time, was this the best you could do?

My biggest issue of all is the fact that this has no underlying theme or point. Touching on notions that could be important if given time, such as relationships, a female protagonist, or the repetition of a tedious Groundhog Day lifestyle once again, they were left high and dry without ambition, making it all useless.

While many actors return to reprise the roles of established characters, their arcs are unfulfilling when they’re paired with different actors playing already developed characters from the previous films. Therefore, this uneven implication of elongated details was just a hodgepodge of dulled-down information with no "it moment".

Relying solely on the development and household name of its predecessor, there is nothing to make this film desirable. Falling short in its visuals, the Sci-Fi aspects are muted in their potential and there was not enough action to coincide with its dragging downtime.

As much as I wanted to like this film, it was too slow, unimportant, and filled with boring details that amounted to an inferior addition to a franchise that had already ended poorly.

CLICK HERE FOR A LONGER AND MORE IN-DEPTH REVIEW I WROTE FOR THE GRCC STUDENT PUBLICATION

5/10

The Matrix Revolutions:

Storyline:
The human city of Zion defends itself against the massive invasion of the machines as Neo fights to end the war.

While this forgets the nonsense of its predecessor's exaggerated and extended scenes, this second part is arguably the same film cut in half. Struggling through tiresome action sequences and ordinary fighting choreography, The Matrix Revolutions extends an already repetitive and weak concept.

That being said, this adds the missing dialogue that was once overlooked. Acting more as the developmental piece to coincide with the heavily filled action, while it still doesn't turn around an already doomed film, it was much needed.
Transitioning to present the details from both Reloaded's plot and this plot, this is not as complete as it thinks. Missing portions of every conflict, theme, and character, turns a blind eye to the point on every note. Feeling like a ball of nothingness with a far from the satisfying finale, too much is happening to comprehend.

Even a fully cinematic final battle can’t save a wholly misplaced film. Attempting to change the game and be the artsy, final portion to solidify, rather extenuates the fact that every aspect feels misplaced.

5.5/10

6.5/10

The Matrix Reloaded:

Storyline:
Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus continue to lead the revolt against the systematic forces of repression and exploitation.

Following one of the most cinematic and innovative films, this has big shoes to fill. However, by trying to go bigger and better than ever, this loses its simplicity and delicacy that made it once stand out.

Overdoing every action sequence past its acceptable time limit, not only was each scene over-the-top but out of control. By having no range or connection to the story amongst these extended periods, it questions the integrity of including them in the elongated runtime. Trying to add time to an already lengthy feeling film, nothing is united.

That being said, there are still notable, cool additions this adds to the franchise. Providing positive attributes that deserve to be talked about, whether its stunts or CGI, they may never know when to stop, but are intriguing at the moment.

While this still has true-to-character one-liners and fitting dialogue, the vast majority of the words and actions on screen are going nowhere. Falling into a quite cheesy pit with too many subplots to surface from, this doesn't ruin the series or make the trilogy not worth the watch, rather accentuates the fact that it simply should have ended with the first film.

6/10

7/10

The Matrix:

Storyline:
Neo, a hacker, discovers the shocking truth -- the life he knows is the elaborate deception of an evil cyber-intelligence.

Given the cultural phenomenon that The Matrix has evolved into today -- which is utterly deserving of its title -- its revolutionary concept and grit are talked about for good reason. From a multidimensional, complex watch to simply an ideal execution for a story such as this, this is/can soon become one of your favorite films.

Though some scenes/CGI are outdated, they are still painless to watch today. Engrossing the audience within every moment, the special effects put the viewers in every instant, from a nail-biting, antsy feeling to mind-bending intense action.

With a fitting cast to the core, the roots of this film are filled gracefully by natural performances. Establishing the essence of the genre and the bits and pieces that come with each watch, there is more to what you first see on screen.

Paving the way for modern cinema, from innovative slow motion to setting the standards for the Sci-Fi genre, this knows how to entertain without skimping on executing a solid plot. Not shying away from the character development or the evolution of a full-circle story, though without a doubt a stellar screenplay, this is straightforward and effortlessly mesmerizing storytelling.

9/10

Speed:

Storyline:
A young police officer has to keep a bus from exploding by keeping it above 50mph.

While giving the adrenaline-pumping action right from the get-go, Speed maintains the action throughout its entirety. Although it is quite a non-believable story, it is just believable enough to make it life-like, but a predictable nailbiter at the same time.

While any action flick with Keanu Reeves is bound to be entertaining, this features a pretty well-developed plot. Proving to be more than what first meets the eye, this dives into a structured turn of events with dynamic twists.

The climax, though, no matter how entertaining, ruins the believable thing that this had going for it. Falling into the same over-the-top category where it just gets pushed too far, this had more potential than the stereotypical Hollywood ending it received.

Nevertheless, a faulty ending to a well-executed, intense action shouldn't stop you from seeing this. Throwing in the fair share of romance, comedic relief, and entertaining stunts, this finds a way to please everyone.

7/10

8/10

The Day the Earth Stood Still:

Storyline:
When an extraterrestrial from outer space visit Earth, he brings a world killing destruction with him.

This was simply a disaster. Genuinely failing to offer any positives, this is a two hour film full of absolutely nothing.

The amount of pointless scenes included was too many to count. Starting out with the beginning sequence, it served no purpose and was just another dead end. Following this, a random compilation of moments were piled together throughout the entire film, to which it never got on the right foot.

The absurd slow pace makes for a hard to wrap your head around story. With such a slow build up, you'd think that some sort of meaning and/or climatic experience would happen, but nothing did.

Lastly, the performances were rigid, dry and just exhausting to watch. That's really all to it, a poor film is paired with boring acting. Beside me being able to get through it, that's the only positive I have to offer. It was not enjoyable, entertaining, or anything to be proud of.

2/10

The Devil's Advocate:

Storyline:
Hotshot Florida lawyer, Kevin Lomax has never lost a case. He is offered a position at a firm in New York where he and his wife relocated.

The inconsistent progression of this film relies heavily on its plot twists to justify it. The overall slow build fails to make this easily separate itself from other similar products within the genre.

The performances were very average, as I've seen better and worse from this star-studded cast. Al Pacino, who had his moments that offered hints of a quite dark and satirical character but only tidbits. Keanu Reeves played a role he and plenty of others have done the acceptable, but the same way each time. However, Charlize Theron created a broken individual who was slowly ticking away with depth.

The directing, scene selections and transitions were nothing that screamed original or relatable. Though ending out of the ordinary and catching the audience by surprise, the subplots, underdeveloped situations, and lack of a personal relationship to the storyline outshined it.

This is worth having under your film-watching belt, especially for lovers of the genre, but overall isn't anything special.

6.5/10

7.5/10

YOUR CART

Something's Gotta Give:

Johnny Mnemonic:

John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum

John Wick: Chapter 2

The Lake House:

Always Be My Maybe:

Destination Wedding:

Hardball:

The Matrix Resurrections:

CLICK HERE FOR A LONGER AND MORE IN-DEPTH REVIEW I WROTE FOR THE GRCC STUDENT PUBLICATION

The Matrix Revolutions:

The Matrix Reloaded:

The Matrix:

Speed:

The Day the Earth Stood Still:

The Devil's Advocate:

FOLLOW FOR POST REMINDERS!

INSTAGRAM @FILMSCRITIQUED