Kevin Costner

3 Days To Kill:

Storyline:
A dying CIA agent trying to reconnect with his estranged daughter is offered an experimental drug that could save his life in exchange for one last assignment.

While the premise and setup for this story are like every other forgettable and unimportant action flick, the presentation is unsurprisingly more careless than its competitors. Although it is not rewatchable, has more continuity issues than characteristics done right, and is the epitome of Kevin Costner's average films now, 3 Days To Kill may be undistinguished, but diverting in the meantime.

Still, the plotline is as dry as can be. Creating a turn of events that are entertaining and what the audience is looking for, the development and abrupt withdrawal from these plot points have no excuse. Including useless characters, insignificant turning points, and completion of feelings that are nothing close to a heart-to-heart moment for the audience, this is as unrealistic as it is quickly made.

Feeling as if casting well-known leads and providing what gets views in the box office would save the cheaply created film, this has its issues that are deeper than just a critically shaky plot. From self-explanatory rough performances, ripples within the plot, and an irrelevant story, this merely had no potential, to begin with - therefore living up to its standard with an incapable of anything original story.

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.

4/10

Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit

Storyline:
Jack Ryan, as a young covert C.I.A. analyst, uncovers a Russian plot to crash the U.S. economy with a terrorist attack.

Being done innumerable times, this series may still get a watch out of the audience but is failing to keep up with the times. Going without the much-needed, evolving pace in the story, this tries to be refreshing within the genre. Instead, Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit rather falls into a hole that’s mildly entertaining in the moment but is no big deal after the fact.

Casting attractive leads and presenting them in an according manner may be why this looks the part, but the lack of grit and depth is a two-way street, both on and off camera. While the weak portrayals can only take the blame so far until the real reason shows itself, a foreseeable and expected script. Although arguably this storytelling is sticking to what it knows best, action that sells, there is no escaping the everlasting plot holes and missing pieces that take this from a well-made production to an overfamiliar, presumptuous watch.

Given this holds your attention and has intriguing notes, there is not a significant or unchanging piece. Competing with itself to find its voice, purpose, and even its momentum, this insignificant film is quite simply empty. Developing a motion picture around a story that gives the audience nothing to take from, it comes as no surprise to feel uninspired.

5/10

Waterworld:

Storyline:
In a future where the polar ice caps have melted and the Earth is almost entirely submerged, a mutated mariner reluctantly helps a woman and child find dry land.

Although Waterworld is nothing to be proud of, it gets hated on to an extreme level that's past its bad rating. Given the terrible character portrayals, timeworn storyline, and screen time that was far too long, this is still entertaining despite its strenuous issues.

Considering this is a wannabe Mad Max on water, there is much to compete within stealing an idea that was already done well. Producing plot holes left and right, the random additions of details and characters throughout is confusing, thus creating a jumbled plot. Diving into aimless and unplanned plot points makes for a watch that becomes messy and demanding rather than relaxed.

To sum it up, this is a tiring dystopian concept that was poorly made. Being incredibly drawn out with stiff performances, this is nothing special. Becoming quite comical at times and something to poke fun at the cheesy construction, this concept is too exhausting to be taken seriously.

3/10

4.5/10

Mr. Brooks:

Storyline:
A well-respect businessman has an alter ego that is addicted to killing. Trying to stop his addiction, a detective is hot on his trail.

While Mr. Brooks is a little rough around the edges and scrambles to find his way throughout its conflicts and subplots, there are more things to like within the film than to dwell on.

More of a versatile actor than what he gets credit for, Kevin Costner steps up his game to provide a raw and peculiar protagonist given the shaky script. Having to deliver non-fitting responses and odd interactions for the majority of his time on screen, he is the stabilizing piece that holds the film together.

That being said, the lack of chemistry between anyone on screen makes for the blocky and rough flow. Though quite possibly the goal of the story, having an ironic and tasteful twist to add to the list of lingering questions, the extent to which this was intended was too far; resulting in a heavy tone, it overtakes the viewer from scene to scene.

Ending on a predictable, but full circle note, there are better things than this, however, this is worth the time. Having a dorky and eventful final act, a contrasting protagonist, and a few loose ends that leave questions, this takes a familiar course in a diverting way.

7/10

7.5/10

Message in a Bottle:

Storyline:
When a journalist finds an anonymous love letter on the beach that her paper publishes, she is desperate to find the author.

Truthfully, going in with low expectations may have influenced my opinion, regardless, Message in a Bottle creates a world to live in within its screen time. Being wholeheartedly involved in every moment throughout its entirety, there are without a doubt prominent issues within, yet this hooks the ones who want a straightforward romance.

Consisting of A-List names and dull performances, the issue wasn't the portrayals, rather the random and unexciting dialogue. Being as foreseen as possible, each line had no anticipation, resulting in conversations that were basic, rudimentary, and corny. While this was made to be gooey and overly sentimental, it doesn't ruin the story by any means, rather flattens the characters.

With all things critically aggravating considered, this film was simply entertaining. By being cheesy and similar to others within the genre, this still is incredibly heartbreaking. Being in the same moment as the characters, even by being sappy, this targets your emotions as you're involved. This is not the best film produced, but is enjoyable, tear-jerking, and made for the ones who love this genre.

4/10

7/10

Criminal:

Storyline:
When a CIA agent is killed, an experimental surgery transfers his memories into a dangerous death-row inmate to complete his mission.

Considering this storyline had no absolute direction, Criminal is just as poorly made as it is forgettable. Having an immense talent for the lead roles, this was nothing more than a money grab. Featuring flat characters, a lack of a drive from the protagonist, and a defective plot, this was just simply a bad film.

Starting the film with one small portion of narration, it was shot from the get-go. Leading to an inconsistent turn of events, the absence of development of any character and/or conflict results in an incoherent and sporadic story. Not to mention the filler scenes and completely irrelevant characters, there were just about one too many aspects that needed help.

Aside from this, the fabricated portrayals were just as much to blame for the rough go. Delivering dull lines and having no draw, the dry performances only heighten the deprived feeling of this film needing substance.

At the end of the day, this film was a forced production that is not worth anyone's time. Not even providing an enjoyment factor, there was no intriguing action, had a unconvincing antagonist, and made the audience feel isolated, as this was not involving or eye-catching.

3/10

Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves

Storyline:
After breaking out of a Jerusalem prison, Robin of Locksley travels home to find his father dead in the ruins of his family estate. With the help of outlaws, he challenges the one responsible, the sheriff.

Considering the time and money that went into making this, you would think it would turn out better. Including a protagonist that is half American/half English, an overly long screen time, and a randomly modern script are small aspects among many that create a deficient film. Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves tries to add something for everyone, resulting in a film that has too much going on at once to have a purpose.

Plain-spoken, this had no direction. While choppy editing is to blame for the lack of a progression from scene to scene, something has to be said about compiling a bunch of pointless scenes into a motion picture. Truthfully, no line of dialogue, interaction, or character is to blame, instead, nothing was cohesive enough to be able to relate, sympathize, or feel as one with the plot.

With everything this film doesn't have to offer, this is a money grab. Proving that a well-known (and overused) story with a big name actor can still make a profit, that's the goal rather than providing a decent film.

4/10

5/10

The Bodyguard:

Storyline:
Pop artist, Rachel Marron has a stalker that has risen to death threats. At the urging of her manager, she agrees to hire Frank Farmer, a former member of the secret service.

Having Whitney Houston, one of the most talented individuals play a huge role within the story, and not even coming close to showing her talent means they did something wrong. Likewise, with Kevin Costner becoming unbelievable in a role that he’s done plenty of times asks the same question - how can you mess up so bad with positive things handed to you.

Although this was written to be dry and nothing fancy, the performances felt as if you were watching someone read their lines for the first time. Regardless of the foreseeable dialogue, this was dim-witted storytelling from the get-go. With each emotion changing within the blink of an eye, there was nothing personable, and was hard to even watch for entertainment.

While the central idea is mainstreamed and just like everything else, this was wasted potential. Having the resources of talented people and not using it where they should, this was poorly executed and results in an unmemorable film. Ultimately, even saying there was a lack of chemistry is generous, as there were absolutely no sparks between the two. That being said, when everything else was rough, how much is one more poorly done aspect going to affect this film.

4/10

Bull Durham:

Storyline:
A groupie that has an affair with one minor-league baseball player each year meets a new and upcoming pitcher who is being trained by a seasoned catcher.

Bull Durham is straightforwardly a simple, but effective sports rom-com. Featuring a reasonable amount of comedic moments, a sharp script, and classic characters, this isn't a sappy romance, nor is it an ignorant comedy, rather it finds its charming voice to appeal to all.

Presenting your average, level-headed protagonist that is relatable and personable plays a part in the authentic product this contracts. Going down a rough and flawed road to find his way makes for a wholesome and enticing individual that's tangible. Along with the supporting characters, no one's relevance or authenticity was in doubt.

Having amusing jokes piggybacks off of having a lifelike dialogue, which in turn creates a banter between characters that's quick on its feet. Despite a predictable ending, this is nothing short of a fulfilling watch. Just because it ended unsurprisingly doesn’t make the authentic characters, witty dialogue, and a compelling protagonist disappear. This is rewatchable, 100% worth your time, and altogether, just enjoyable.

7.5/10

8/10

Tin Cup:

Storyline:
Roy McAvoy was a golf pro with a bright future, but his rebellious attitude cost him everything. He decides to make a run for the PGA to go up against his rival, David Simms.

Seemingly upon first glance, this looks brainless, dull-witted, and just about every other dumb, unvarying sports comedy. However, this proves to never judge a film by its cover as it takes you down an authentic road. With a candid protagonist who is just the average joe, an interesting take on the everyday sport's plot, and effortlessly supplying quotable situations/lines, not only is this extremely entertaining but isn't half bad along the way.

Consistently providing humorous lines for both golfers and nongolfers alike makes for a witty and sharp plot that heightens its already established tone. Instantly charming the viewer from the first moments on screen, the plot and development might not have all its ducks in a row, but still creates a smooth, enjoyable ride.

By including the typical type of romance aspects within the story makes for this to be cheesy; even with its fair share of corny moments and usual interactions that come with it, it was executed originally to make it stand out among others within its time. Tin Cup isn't stellar cinema, needless to say, but it still deserves your time, as it's a lighthearted watch that provides a genuine laugh.

7/10

8/10

No Way Out:

Storyline:
Navy Lieutenant, Tom Ferrell becomes romantically involved with a woman, Susan Atwell. When she is murdered and he is investigating her death, he learns mysterious things about the truth.

Being profoundly convincing, No Way Out is the representation of a cinematic picture. Being not as frequently talked about or in the spotlight when it should be, having possible career-best performances, a cunning directorial tone, and an immaculate plot twist, this along with other elements makes for a film that is just simply good.

Although seemingly playing roles that are similar on the outside, Kevin Costner truly steps up his game. Developing a sharp and rare individual that isn't easy to genuinely construct only heightens the deceptive and edge-of-your-seat plot. Impressively overwhelming the audience with his utterly raw performance, Costner not only displays his talent but leaves room for the supporting roles to compliment his own.

Never knowing who is dishonest, the sneaky and inventive screenwriting takes the audience on a whirlwind of emotions with a crafty script. Giving the audience a curveball that is unforeseeable, leaving questions that linger well after the film is over, and creating a captivating picture with paranoid characters, this film needs to be seen by everyone.

8.5/10

The Untouchables:

Storyline:
Federal Agent, Eliot Ness sets out to take down the ruthless Chicago gangster, Al Capone, with the help of his handpicked team.

Providing superb performances, clear directing, and a compelling plot is just the tip of the iceberg of aspects that create an involving film. Developing a tone that is carried out and acted upon throughout its entirety, The Untouchables not only has noteworthy elements but keeps you on your toes in the process.

Although based on a true story, many characteristics were embellished beyond the truth, yet never diminished the believability. Nothing was out of control in terms of the time frame and kept a composed mindset by letting the story take control over modern action elements that never made their way in.

From everyone involved, the performances were sensational. While this genre and characters have adaptations created all over, the gripping depictions were dedicated and pure. Complimented by a creative directorial tone, not one aspect is superior to another, rather each builds from the other.

Grasping the audience's attention from the get-go, though seemingly similar to other stories within the genre at first glance, this creates an unmatched vibe. From its cohesive plot to its raw chemistry between characters, this has the authenticity that films nowadays wish they could create.

8/10

For Love of the Game:

Storyline:
40-year-old pitcher, Billy Chapel is approaching the end of his career fast and is pitching the game of his life. During this time, he can only think about his relationship that is falling apart.

Basking in a love story fantasy that is the typical and usual route for anyone to guess, I hate to say that this is still fulfilling. Whether it's the sentimental romantic moments, purely dumb one-liners, or the dramatic situations to make fun of, this is quite forgotten by critics and fans alike for no prominent reason.

By no means is this original or even cinematic, but thrives by creating a satisfying and compelling picture. Filled with average performances, the fair share of dull, awkward dialogue, and cheesy editing, while these aspects are incredibly noticeable, they are just as easily looked past.

Feel-good, simple films like this are not made anymore, and even with being originated from a commonplace for just about every 90s romcom, this still holds your attention and keeps you involved. In reality, the majority of this is bad, however, it's slightly good in the sense of it being rewatchable, you know what you're in for, and you hate to love this film; simply put, For Love of the Game is modestly a great bad film.

6/10

8/10

Field of Dreams:

Storyline:
When an Iowa farmer hears a mysterious voice saying "If you build it, he will come", he acts on it and builds a baseball field on his land, despite everyone advising him not to.

Sometimes, all you're looking for is a make-believe story to fulfill your entertainment needs, and this is exactly that. Developing themes that live in the individualized world that this creates is fun, enjoyable, and just convincing enough to make you not question the far-fetched idea.

Though this is over 30 years old, some things, without question, become outdated and are easy to make fun of (and can get a good laugh, too). Yet, more things than not never date themselves. Providing a sense of humor that's current and up to date to today's standards of comedy, while it can get slightly cliche, it's not sloppy. Easily providing a genuine laugh without skimping on its plot, Field of Dreams may be sentimental but is irresistible.

Being a wholesome film all around, this may take you for a routine 80s storyline but does so in a fascinating way. Having messages from the heart, solid performances across the board, and a storyline that never seems to get old, this is a classic that honorably lives up to its name.

8/10

The Company Men:

Storyline:
Following the effects of downsizing a large company, upper-class businessmen change how they handle their lives.

The fact that the subject of this film is realistic and genuinely happens, it creates the authenticity to lead the film. With that, though, the story almost felt real, but the point was all over the place, making for nothing to be accomplished.

The focus was on the protagonist and how his family, their lifestyle and he as a person had to change, but it wasn't consistent. The message implemented was one completely different than what was shown, with no correlation between the two, either. Not to mention, the lack of a development with his family, character arc, or personality change. In the blink of an eye, he figured his life out with no context or information which the audience desperately needed.

To top it all off, the stereotypical ending was not cutting it. Having the realistic factor being one of the few aspects going for it, the poor finale took everything down with it. Yes, while this is something that could happen, not everyone has a life changing, blessing in disguise midlife crisis. Leading to the story to not be as convincing as it should, if the performances and storyline were better (especially because of the talent within), The Company Men would not be as easily forgotten or a waste of time.

4/10

YOUR CART

3 Days To Kill:

Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit

Waterworld:

Mr. Brooks:

Message in a Bottle:

Criminal:

Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves

The Bodyguard:

Bull Durham:

Tin Cup:

No Way Out:

The Untouchables:

For Love of the Game:

Field of Dreams:

The Company Men:

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