Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

 

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024)

A Breathtaking Spectacle and Bold New Chapter

★★★☆☆

A worthy addition to the rebooted saga that pairs epic CGI performances with fascinating future possibilities.

Directed by Wes Ball, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is a worthy addition to the rebooted movie adventure. The film continues the franchise's strong tradition of excellent CGI performances and epic storytelling. While it suffers from minor pacing issues at times, it is commendable that the filmmakers are confident enough to "take the foot off the gas" to explore the universe more deeply. When the tension is finally amped up, the result is a breathtaking spectacle that successfully sets the stage for the next phase of this expanding saga.

"The movie also sets up the continuation of the narrative with some fascinating possibilities. Which leaves us in a place of wanting more in the tale, which is the best place to be for the future of this fascinating and expanding saga."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Wes Ball
• Starring: Owen Teague (Noa), Freya Allan (Mae), Kevin Durand (Proximus Caesar)
• Supporting: Peter Macon, William H. Macy
• Visual Effects: Wētā FX

The Vision

Wes Ball takes over the directorial reins from Matt Reeves, shifting the focus generations after the death of Caesar. His vision is one of a "post-post-apocalyptic" world where nature has reclaimed the earth, and ape clans have diverged into unique cultures. By leaning into world-building over constant action, Ball creates a more meditative experience that honors the legacy of the previous trilogy while carving out a fresh identity. The technical mastery provided by Wētā FX ensures that the emotional beats of the ape protagonists remain the film's beating heart.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Generational Leap: The film takes place roughly 300 years after War for the Planet of the Apes, meaning the legend of Caesar has evolved into a religious or mythical figure.
• Ape School: The actors spent six weeks in "Ape School" with movement coach Alain Gauthier to unlearn human movements and perfect the specific gait and mannerisms of chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans.
• Location Scouting: Much of the lush, reclaimed scenery was filmed on location in New South Wales, Australia, utilizing real environments to ground the heavy CGI elements in reality.

✅ Pros

• Industry-leading CGI and motion-capture performances.
• Breathtaking action spectacles and cinematography.
• Intriguing world-building that leaves you wanting more.

❌ Cons

• Occasional pacing lulls during the middle act.
• Struggles slightly to emerge from the massive shadow of the Caesar trilogy.

🏆 Final Verdict

A triumphant return to the world of the apes. Despite minor pacing issues, the film delivers the "spectacle" promised and leaves the franchise in an incredibly exciting place for future chapters.

View original review on Letterboxd

Abigail

 

Abigail (2024)

An Amusing and Crowd-Friendly Thriller

★★★☆☆

Watched 12 May 2024 — A fun, gory mashup that delivers the goods even if the marketing spoiled the surprise.

Directed by the "Radio Silence" duo Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, Abigail is a rowdy exploration of the kidnap-thriller genre with a supernatural bite. Despite its main twist being heavily featured in the trailers, the film manages to maintain momentum through a series of fun narrative turns and plenty of visceral jump scares. It succeeds primarily as a group experience, relying on a game ensemble cast who clearly enjoyed playing within the bloody confines of its central premise.

"Best enjoyed in the company of good friends and a rowdy audience talking and laughing at the screen. [It is] an amusing and crowd friendly thriller/comedy."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Directors: [Matt Bettinelli-Olpin & Tyler Gillett](https://www.imdb.com)
• Starring: [Melissa Barrera](https://www.imdb.com), Dan Stevens, Alisha Weir
• Supporting: Kathryn Newton, William Catlett, Kevin Durand, Angus Cloud
• Studio: Universal Pictures

The Vision

The directorial vision follows the established "Radio Silence" playbook seen in Ready or Not: mixing high-stakes horror with dark, comedic levity. The film focuses on subverting expectations of the "victim" and "predator" dynamic. While the marketing may have dampened the initial shock of the reveal, the filmmakers double down on stylistic gore and energetic pacing to keep the audience engaged. It’s a movie that prioritizes the "blast" of the moment over deep lore, aiming for high-energy entertainment that flourishes in a theatrical setting.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Angus Cloud’s Final Role: This film marks one of the final on-screen appearances for [Angus Cloud](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com), best known for his role in Euphoria.
• Ballerina Vampire: Alisha Weir, who plays Abigail, performed many of her own dance-inspired stunts, drawing on her musical theater background (Matilda the Musical).
• Classic Roots: The film is a loose, modern reimagining of the 1936 classic Dracula's Daughter.

✅ Pros

• Great performances from a high-energy ensemble.
• Plenty of fun gore and effective jump scares.
• Excellent choice for a group viewing experience.

❌ Cons

• Marketing spoiled the most significant twist.
• Follows fairly standard horror/thriller tropes.
• Narrative turns can feel predictable for genre veterans.

🏆 Final Verdict

A blood-soaked, amusing romp that proves the "Radio Silence" team still knows how to throw a party on screen. Even if you know what's coming, the ride is worth the price of admission for the fun alone.

View on Letterboxd

The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare

 

The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare (2024)

The Best Popcorn Action Film of the Summer

★★★½☆

Watched 12 May 2024 — A high-octane throwback that prioritizes "good natured fun" over heavy-handed dramatics.

Directed by Guy Ritchie, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare cements his status as a premier crowd-pleasing action director. Moving away from his early independent "Tarantino-esque" roots, Ritchie has evolved into a versatile filmmaker capable of tackling everything from Aladdin to the tortured drama of The Covenant. Here, he returns to the "men-on-a-mission" subgenre with his trademark visual flair and breathtaking practical effects, delivering a stylized WWII romp that feels like a spiritual successor to his work on The Man from U.N.C.L.E.

"Is there a better prolific mainstream director working today than Guy Ritchie? One can try and make an argument. But for my money I'd say no."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Guy Ritchie
• Starring: Henry Cavill, Alan Ritchson, Eiza González
• Supporting: Henry Golding, Alex Pettyfer, Til Schweiger
• Source Material: Based on the book by Damien Lewis

The Vision

Ritchie’s vision for this project is refreshingly straightforward: a focus on affable, attractive characters fighting "uncomplicated evil Nazis." By stripping away the non-linear complexity of his early career, he leans into a kinetic, muscular style of filmmaking. The film functions as a celebration of British resilience and "ungentlemanly" tactics, utilizing practical special effects to ground the stylized violence. It proves Ritchie can master the big-budget Hollywood machine while maintaining the distinct, energetic edge that makes his work stand out in the mainstream landscape.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• The Bond Connection: Henry Cavill’s character, Gus March-Phillipps, was a primary real-life inspiration for Ian Fleming’s James Bond. Fleming himself is a character in the film.
• The Ritchie/Cavill Reunion: This marks the second collaboration between Ritchie and Cavill, following 2015's The Man from U.N.C.L.E.
• Historical Basis: The film depicts Operation Postmaster, a secret mission so controversial the British government kept it classified for decades.

✅ Pros

• Memorable performances across the entire ensemble cast.
• Breathtaking, practical special effects and visuals.
• Pure, unapologetic "popcorn" fun.

❌ Cons

• Lacks the narrative depth of The Covenant.
• Villains are somewhat one-dimensional "evil Nazis."
• Follows a very familiar mission-movie template.

🏆 Final Verdict

A triumphant confirmation of Guy Ritchie’s status as a master of the modern action film. If you want high stakes without the pretension, this is the best ride of the summer. Go watch it, then head to Netflix for The Gentlemen.

View on Letterboxd

Unfrosted

 

Unfrosted (2024)

An Unabashedly Silly Sugar Rush

★★★☆☆

Watched 07 May 2024 — A bizarre, ridiculous comedy that succeeds if you check your "critical eye" at the door.

Directed by and starring Jerry Seinfeld, Unfrosted is a surreal, candy-colored reimagining of the corporate battle to invent the Pop-Tart. Eschewing the trend of "gritty" brand biopics, the film leans into pure absurdity. It is a movie with a singular mission: to generate laughs at any cost. While it won't satisfy those seeking "high art" or a realistic historical account, its commitment to being a "bizarre" and "ridiculous" piece of broad comedy makes it a refreshing, harmless diversion for those in the right frame of mind.

"If the audience member goes in with a negative critical eye... they are missing the point. [It] was created with only one task in mind, to give the audience laughs."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: [Jerry Seinfeld](https://www.imdb.com)
• Starring: Jerry Seinfeld, Melissa McCarthy, Jim Gaffigan
• Supporting: Hugh Grant, Amy Schumer, Christian Slater, James Marsden
• Studio: [Netflix](https://www.netflix.com)

The Vision

Seinfeld’s directorial debut is a rejection of modern cinematic self-importance. His vision is rooted in the "anything for a laugh" ethos of classic 1960s comedies and variety shows. The film intentionally prioritizes absurdity over plot cohesion, utilizing a massive ensemble of comedy legends to populate a hyper-stylized version of Battle Creek, Michigan. By leaning into the "ridiculous," Seinfeld creates a space where broad comedy can flourish without the constraints of "thought-provoking" expectations, aiming directly for the audience's "funny bone."

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Hugh Grant's Tony the Tiger: Hugh Grant portrays a disgruntled Shakespearean actor forced to wear a Tony the Tiger costume, a meta-commentary on his own career evolution.
• Seinfeld's First: This marks Jerry Seinfeld's first time directing a feature film, despite his decades of dominance in television and stand-up.
• Product Placement Parody: While the film is about Pop-Tarts, Kellogg’s was not an official partner; the film actually parodies the very concept of the "brand origin story" popularized by movies like Air and BlackBerry.

✅ Pros

• Pure, harmless, and quick-hitting laughs.
• Stacked ensemble cast having a blast with the material.
• Refreshingly unabashed about its own silliness.

❌ Cons

• Not for everyone; broad comedy can be polarizing.
• Lacks a challenging or stimulating narrative.
• May feel "all over the place" to a critical viewer.

🏆 Final Verdict

A sugary, strange, and entirely ridiculous trip that succeeds if you're looking for simple fun. If you're willing to turn off your brain and enjoy the absurd, Unfrosted delivers exactly what it promises.

View on Letterboxd

Civil War

 

Civil War (2024)

A Stunning, Disturbing, and Thought-Provoking Ride

★★★½☆

Watched 14 Apr 2024 — A haunting exploration of the internal war waged by those documenting humanity's collapse.

Directed by Alex Garland, Civil War subverts expectations of a political manifesto. Instead of focusing on the "why" of a modern American divide, the film examines the "how" through the lens of wartime photojournalists. It is a visceral journey through breathtaking action and haunting sequences that challenge the viewer’s own morality. While the plot meanders through various horrors, the film's strength lies in its refusal to offer simple answers, instead forcing an assessment of the price paid for "objectivity" in the face of absolute inhumanity.

"It's really about the Civil War going on within individual journalists. The war to maintain humanity in the face of inhumanity... the war between chasing thrills and honestly uncovering truths."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: [Alex Garland](https://www.imdb.com)
• Starring: [Kirsten Dunst](https://www.imdb.com), Wagner Moura, Cailee Spaeny
• Supporting: Stephen McKinley Henderson, Nick Offerman, Jesse Plemons
• Studio: [A24](https://a24films.com)

The Vision

Garland’s vision is intentionally apolitical and clinical, mirroring the mindset of his protagonists. By stripping away the specific ideological causes of the conflict, he shifts the focus to the sensory experience of war and the psychological toll of witnessing atrocities. The film functions as a "wake-up call" that doesn't tell you what to think, but rather demands that you *look*. It’s a handsomely executed, messy assembly of themes—ranging from adrenaline addiction to the ethics of journalism—that ultimately aims to spark deep, difficult conversations long after the credits roll.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Immersive Sound: The gunfire in the film was recorded using high-fidelity equipment to match the actual decibel levels of real weaponry, creating an intentionally jarring auditory experience.
• Jesse Plemons' Cameo: Plemons was a late addition to the cast, stepping in to play the terrifying soldier in the red sunglasses after another actor dropped out just days before filming.
• The WF and 19th State: The "Western Forces" (Texas and California) were chosen as allies specifically to avoid aligning the film with real-world 2024 American political maps.

✅ Pros

• Breathtaking action and stunning visual execution.
• Profound, thought-provoking themes regarding journalism.
• Exceptional performances, particularly from Kirsten Dunst.

❌ Cons

• The narrative can feel "messily assembled" at times.
• Meandering plot may frustrate those looking for a traditional war story.
• Ambiguous messaging can leave viewers with "mixed feelings."

🏆 Final Verdict

A masterpiece of tension that refuses to provide the comfort of a simple message. It hits every viewer differently, making it one of the most significant and conversational films of the year. Absorb it, then assess it.

View on Letterboxd

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire

 

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024)

Giant Monsters, Solid FX, and Pure Fun

★★★☆☆

Watched 28 Mar 2024 — A film that knows exactly what its audience wants: building-sized titans pummeling each other to the death.

Directed by Adam Wingard, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire is an unapologetic spectacle that prioritizes scale over subtext. While it’s easy to dismiss a movie about giant monsters as "silly," the artistic merits here deserve recognition. The film successfully balances a two-hour narrative where the human characters manage to hold our interest between the main events. Most impressively, the special effects team manages to elicit genuine affection and animosity toward these CGI protagonists, proving that even a low-bar "monster mash" requires high-level craftsmanship to succeed.

"What they likely are looking for are glowing comments about great special effects and stimulating action of building size monsters battling each other to the death. Godzilla x Kong The New Empire delivers just that."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Adam Wingard
• Starring: Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, Dan Stevens
• Supporting: Kaylee Hottle, Fala Chen
• Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures / Legendary

The Vision

Wingard’s vision for the "MonsterVerse" continues to lean away from the grounded realism of earlier entries in favor of vibrant, neon-soaked fantasy. He embraces the legacy of the "rubber suit" era while utilizing modern technology to make the action feel kinetic and personal. The focus remains on the personality of the monsters—treating Kong and Godzilla as silent actors with their own arcs. It’s an entertaining effort that aims for "solid special effects" and "affable creatures," ensuring that fans of the franchise leave the theater satisfied.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• The Guest Reunion: This film reunites director Adam Wingard with actor Dan Stevens, who starred in Wingard's 2014 cult hit The Guest.
• Evolved Godzilla: The pink "evolved" look for Godzilla was inspired by the monster's ability to store massive amounts of solar energy, a nod to the character's ever-changing biology in Toho history.
• Silent Protagonists: A significant portion of the film features no human dialogue, relying entirely on the visual storytelling and "acting" of the CGI monsters.

✅ Pros

• Top-tier special effects and monster action.
• Human characters that actually manage to stay interesting.
• A fun, entertaining ride from start to finish.

❌ Cons

• Story elements and dialogue are secondary to the action.
• The plot leans heavily into "silly" territory.
• Not for those seeking a "realistic" or deep narrative.

🏆 Final Verdict

A triumphant celebration of giant-scale destruction. If you're here for titans pummeling each other, stop reading and go watch it—you won't be disappointed.

View on Letterboxd

Ghostbusters Frozen Empire

 

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024)

A Heartwarming Family Film in Ghostly Garb

★★½☆☆

Watched 27 Mar 2024 — Solid as a multi-generational family drama, but lacking the edgy thrills of its iconic roots.

Directed by Gil Kenan, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire finds the franchise shifting gears into wholesome family entertainment. While it remains a "not bad" movie, it struggles with a significant identity crisis: it lacks the big comedic beats and scary thrills that once defined the brand. Instead, it positions itself as a heartwarming story centered on a mixed family of several generations. It’s a literal and figurative coming-together of the old guard and the new kids, functioning more as a moral tale than a supernatural thriller.

"Can a Ghostbusters movie still be good if it doesn't have many laughs or any scary thrills? ... What we have here is a heartwarming family film. And on that level, it delivers solidly."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Gil Kenan
• Starring: Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Finn Wolfhard, Mckenna Grace
• The Originals: Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson
• Studio: Sony Pictures

The Vision

The directorial vision moves further away from the edgy, improv-heavy "comedy thriller" roots established by Harold Ramis and Dan Aykroyd in 1984. This entry feels more aligned with the animated series' "silly fun" and "morality tales" approach. Kenan focuses on the "chaperone" dynamic, utilizing the legacy characters to anchor a story about family unity and overcoming adversity. It’s a soft reboot that prioritizes sentimental heart over the sharp, scientific skepticism that made the original world-building so iconic.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Alternative Casting: The original 1984 film was initially written for John Belushi and Eddie Murphy. Murphy eventually passed to film [Beverly Hills Cop](https://www.imdb.com).
• The Firehouse Return: This film marks the first time the franchise has fully returned to the iconic [Hook & Ladder Company 8](https://en.wikipedia.org) firehouse in Tribeca as a primary base since 1989.
• Practical Slimer: The production team opted for a mix of CGI and practical puppetry for Slimer to capture the nostalgic feel of the original "ugly little spud."

✅ Pros

• Solid, heartwarming family dynamics at the core.
• Great to see the original Ghostbusters back in action.
• High production value and nostalgic set pieces.

❌ Cons

• Hardly any comedic moments or big laughs.
• Lacks the scary thrills and tension of the original.
• Feels a bit too "safe" for an edgy franchise.

🏆 Final Verdict

A conflicted transition for the franchise. If you’re looking for a wholesome family uniting for a heroic cause, you’ll find it here. If you’re looking for the edgy wit of Bill Murray’s heyday, you might leave feeling a bit cold.

View on Letterboxd

Road House 2024

 

Road House (2024)

Unabashedly Silly, Simple, and Combat-Ready

★★★☆☆

Watched 22 Mar 2024 — A positive re-imagining that tosses logic out the window in favor of a fun, uncomplicated ride.

Directed by Doug Liman, this 2024 update of Road House trades the cult-hit status of the 1989 original for high-octane modern polish. Starring the critically acclaimed Jake Gyllenhaal, the film wisely avoids trying to be a "classic" or standing up to deep scrutiny. Instead, it leans into its identity as pure entertainment, delivering exactly what the title promises: fighting, followed by more fighting. It’s a breezy, big-budget remake that lives up to its predecessor's humble success by keeping the stakes clear and the action relentless.

"Everyone knows this movie exists just to entertain. And not to stand up to any kind of deep scrutiny. If the viewer enters looking to have a fun ride, they are in good hands. Lay back and enjoy the fights."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Doug Liman
• Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Conor McGregor
• Supporting: Daniela Melchior, Billy Magnussen, Jessica Williams
• Studio: Amazon MGM Studios

The Vision

Liman, the filmmaker behind The Bourne Identity, brings a kinetic energy to the Florida Keys setting. His vision eschews the "serious" tone of many modern remakes, opting instead for a vibrant, almost cartoonish physicality. The inclusion of MMA superstar Conor McGregor in an over-the-top debut performance signals the film's intent: it is a "home video success" spirit amplified by a blockbuster budget. It doesn't aim to fix a plot that didn't need reimagining; it simply provides a new sandbox for impressive sequences and "unabashedly silly fun."

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• UFC Integration: To ensure authenticity, scenes were filmed during a live [UFC 285](https://www.ufc.com) event, with Gyllenhaal actually stepping into the Octagon.
• McGregor's Debut: This film marks the professional acting debut of Conor McGregor, who reportedly became the highest-paid debut actor in history for the role.
• Stunt Innovation: Liman used a "multi-pass" filming technique for the fights, allowing actors to throw real, fast punches that were digitally composited to look like they connected without hurting the performers.

✅ Pros

• Jake Gyllenhaal brings charisma and grit to the lead role.
• Impressive, modern fight sequences and choreography.
• Conor McGregor’s wild, over-the-top performance.

❌ Cons

• Logic and narrative depth are secondary to the action.
• Doesn't necessarily "need" to exist as a remake.
• Might feel too "silly" for viewers expecting a serious drama.

🏆 Final Verdict

A fun, high-energy ride that respects the spirit of the original by not taking itself too seriously. It’s a perfect "popcorn" movie—just lay back, ignore the logic, and enjoy the show.

View on Letterboxd

The Promised Land

 

The Promised Land (2023)

A Classic Western Tale with a Danish Twist

★★★★☆

Watched 18 Mar 2024 — A riveting, handsomely crafted epic featuring one of the most detestable villains in recent memory.

Directed by Nikolaj Arcel, The Promised Land (Bastarden) is technically a period drama set in 1750s Denmark, but it moves with the soul of a classic American Western. The film follows an underprivileged war hero fighting impossible odds to cultivate the barren Jutland heath. Guided by Arcel's steady, confident hand, the narrative expertly balances traditional tropes—the evil land baron, the orphaned child, and the affable underdog—while injecting shocking unique surprises and riveting thrills. It is a powerful exploration of class, legacy, and sheer human will.

"Not since Joffrey Baratheon has a story incited so much hatred for a despicable weasel of an antagonist... The film delivers riveting thrills and shocking unique surprises."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Nikolaj Arcel
• Starring: Mads Mikkelsen, Amanda Collin, Simon Bennebjerg
• Supporting: Kristine Kujath Thorp, Gustav Lindh
• Cinematography: Rasmus Videbæk

The Vision

Arcel’s vision is a marriage of beautiful cinematography and gritty, excellent production design. By viewing 18th-century Danish history through a "foreign perspective" on the Western genre, he creates a story that feels both epic and intimate. The focus is on the collision between the "civilized" brutality of the aristocracy and the raw survivalism of the common man. The film's MVP is undoubtedly Simon Bennebjerg, whose horrific, memorable villainous turn serves as the perfect foil to Mads Mikkelsen’s characteristically powerful, stoic performance.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• A Royal Reunion: This film reunites Mads Mikkelsen and director Nikolaj Arcel for the first time since their Oscar-nominated collaboration, [A Royal Affair (2012)](https://www.imdb.com).
• The King's Heath: The film is based on the 2020 Danish bestseller *Kaptajnen og Ann Barbara* (The Captain and Ann Barbara) by Ida Jessen.
• Award Pedigree: The film was Denmark's official entry for [Best International Feature Film](https://en.wikipedia.org) at the 96th Academy Awards.

✅ Pros

• Trademark powerful performance by Mads Mikkelsen.
• A truly memorable and detestable villain in Simon Bennebjerg.
• Excellent production design and cinematography.

❌ Cons

• Relies on some familiar Western/period drama tropes.
• Features moments of shocking and brutal violence.
• May feel traditional to those seeking an avant-garde drama.

🏆 Final Verdict

An excellent, memorable film that proves classic storytelling still has the power to shock and rivet. If you want to see a "despicable weasel" get his comeuppance in a beautiful setting, this is a must-watch.

View on Letterboxd

The Zone of Interest

 

The Zone of Interest (2023)

The Boring, Mundane Reality of Evil

★★½☆☆

Watched 18 Mar 2024 — A polarizing, experimental look at the "banality of evil" that often feels as stagnant as the lives it depicts.

Directed by Jonathan Glazer, The Zone of Interest is a film whose impact depends entirely on how the viewer interprets its lack of traditional narrative. On the surface, we watch the insignificant minutiae of a Nazi family's daily life. The artistic weight comes from the unsettling rumblings and screams of misery persisting in the background from the adjacent death camp. While it effectively illustrates how humans can become desensitized to suffering for the sake of self-preservation, the repetitive nature of these points makes the 1 hour and 47 minute runtime feel significantly longer.

"Evil can be as boring as a family picnic, or as mundane as washing the dishes... After awhile, one almost wants to beg and scream at the film to give us something worth watching and noteworthy. But that's the point."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Jonathan Glazer
• Starring: Christian Friedel, Sandra Hüller
• Cinematographer: Łukasz Żal
• Studio: A24

The Vision

Glazer’s vision is undeniably "pretentious" and experimental, eschewing standard cinematic immediacy for a fly-on-the-wall perspective. He uses a static, multi-camera setup to capture uninteresting, familiar family events in a beautiful, idyllic setting—juxtaposed against the unseen horrors over the garden wall. The goal is to reinforce the idea that humanity can be selfish and ultimately cruel through institutional desensitization. However, by repeating the same morbid points in uninteresting ways, the film risks alienating viewers who expect a nuanced, complex narrative or character development.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• The "Hidden" Crew: To achieve a naturalistic feel, Glazer set up [up to 10 cameras](https://www.theguardian.com) in the house and operated them remotely, so the actors were alone in the set without a visible crew.
• Audio Horror: The "background" sounds of the camp were created by sound designer Johnnie Burn, who compiled a library of [industrial and human sounds](https://www.nytimes.com) to play throughout the film without ever showing the source.
• Oscar Success: The film won the Academy Award for [Best International Feature Film](https://www.oscars.org) and Best Sound at the 2024 Oscars.

✅ Pros

• Masterful and unsettling use of background sound.
• Powerful theme concerning the desensitization of humanity.
• Visually idyllic cinematography juxtaposed with grim reality.

❌ Cons

• Lacks a strong, thrilling narrative or complex characters.
• Runtime feels much longer than it is due to pacing.
• Points can feel repetitive and "pretentious."

🏆 Final Verdict

A film designed to be infuriating and mundane to mirror the boring nature of evil. If you value irony and thematic atmosphere over story, this is for you; otherwise, it may feel like a three-minute PSA stretched to feature length.

View on Letterboxd

Dune Part Two

 

Dune: Part Two (2024)

The Tragic Fall of a Chosen One

★★★★☆

Watched 13 Mar 2024 — A spectacular, thought-provoking anti-war film that trades classic heroism for dark political realism.

Directed by Denis Villeneuve, Dune: Part Two is a spectacular adaptation of the second half of Frank Herbert's seminal novel. Expertly juggling dark themes of revenge, leadership burdens, and societal manipulation, Villeneuve transforms the typical "hero's journey" into a sobering anti-war statement. While Part One felt like the rise of a classic hero, Part Two explores the tragic fall of Paul Atreides as he is slowly overwhelmed by political forces, ultimately embracing a holy war for retribution and power.

"While other adaptations treated Paul Atreides as more of a classic hero... this version of Dune is more of an anti-war film... Part two feels more like a tragic fall."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Denis Villeneuve
• Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson
• Supporting: Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh
• Studio: Warner Bros. / Legendary

The Vision

Villeneuve’s vision is focused on the "nuanced look" at leadership and the "political deception" inherent in prophecy. He replaces the "crowd-pleasing" satisfaction of previous adaptations with breathtaking action that feels heavy and consequential. By emphasizing the "dark destiny" of Paul Atreides, he crafts a narrative that is as much about the manipulation of disenfranchised people as it is about intergalactic war. It is a visually engrossing morality tale that avoids simple binaries of good and evil, cementing its place as the first great film of 2024.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Infrared Gladiators: The striking black-and-white sequences on Giedi Prime were filmed using [infrared cameras](https://www.indiewire.com) to create a sun-bleached, alien look for the Harkonnen home world.
• Worm-Riding Logic: The "Sandworm" sequences took months to develop, with Villeneuve insisting on a [consistent mechanical logic](https://www.variety.com) for how one would actually mount and steer a 400-meter creature.
• Austin Butler's Transformation: To play Feyd-Rautha, Austin Butler trained in [Kali martial arts](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com) and adopted a vocal tone inspired by Stellan Skarsgård’s Baron Harkonnen.

✅ Pros

• Spectacular visuals and breathtaking action sequences.
• Exceptional performances from an all-star ensemble cast.
• Thought-provoking, mature exploration of power and religion.

❌ Cons

• Dark themes make for a less "satisfying" traditional hero arc.
• Protagonist becomes increasingly difficult to root for.
• May feel heavy or exhausting compared to *Part One*.

🏆 Final Verdict

A technical and narrative triumph that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible. It is a haunting, epic contendere for awards season that proves blockbuster cinema can be as cerebral as it is spectacular.

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Perfect Days

 

Perfect Days (2023)

The Mesmerizing Beauty of a Simple Life

★★★★☆

Watched 07 Mar 2024 — A soul-soothing slice of life that finds profound humanity in the routines we often ignore.

Directed by the legendary Wim Wenders, Perfect Days follows the unremarkable yet cherished life of Hirayama, a humble toilet cleaner in Tokyo. Wenders weaves his cinematic magic through a repetitive, focused look at Hirayama's daily routines—cleaning, watering plants, and listening to classic rock. While a cynical viewer might question the significance of such tasks, the film transforms these simple pleasures into something mesmerizing. When an unexpected visit disrupts his rhythm in the second act, we are forced to drop our judgment and witness the beautiful humanity of a man society usually neglects.

"A great film to watch when one starts to feel overwhelmed by seemingly important things, which are really just insignificant if given the proper perspective."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Wim Wenders
• Starring: Kōji Yakusho, Tokio Emoto, Arisa Nakano
• Supporting: Aoi Yamada, Sayuri Ishikawa, Tomokazu Miura
• Studio: [NEON / Master Mind](https://neonrated.com)

The Vision

Wenders' vision is a rejection of modern chaos, choosing instead to celebrate the "uncomplicated" person. By focusing on the meticulous care Hirayama puts into his work and his analog hobbies, the film highlights a focused way of living that has become rare. The directorial style is patient and observational, allowing the audience to relate to simple joys like sitting under a tree or driving to work listening to Lou Reed. It serves as a gentle reminder that life's most meaningful moments often exist within the insignificant minutiae of our daily existence.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Best Actor Laurels: Lead actor [Kōji Yakusho](https://www.imdb.com) won the Best Actor award at the [2023 Cannes Film Festival](https://www.festival-cannes.com) for his subtle, moving performance.
• The Tokyo Toilet Project: The stunning public bathrooms featured in the film are real, high-design structures built by the [The Tokyo Toilet project](https://tokyotoilet.jp), which originally commissioned Wenders to make a short documentary.
• Analog Soul: Hirayama’s love for cassette tapes and film photography was a deliberate choice by Wenders to showcase a character who stays [connected to the tangible world](https://www.criterion.com) in a digital age.

✅ Pros

• Mesmerizing, career-best performance by Kōji Yakusho.
• Beautifully captures the "humanity" in everyday routines.
• A perfect antidote to feeling overwhelmed by modern life.

❌ Cons

• Extremely slow pacing may bore "action-oriented" viewers.
• The episodic, repetitive structure isn't for everyone.
• Minimal plot development until the second act.

🏆 Final Verdict

A cinematic masterpiece of observation. It asks us to look closer at the world around us and find the beauty in being present. It’s a film that stays with you long after the final frame.

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Priscilla

Priscilla (2023)

A Touching, Personal Escape from the Gilded Cage

★★★★☆

Watched 10 Feb 2024 — A superior, grounded exploration of a life lived in the orbit of a legend.

Directed by Sofia Coppola, Priscilla arrives as a more intimate and effective counterpoint to the flashy biopics we've seen recently. Coppola excels at capturing the subtle seduction of a young girl into the celebrity orbit of Elvis Presley, illustrating the romantic entanglement and the inevitable isolation that follows. While the film doesn't shy away from the problematic age gap and power dynamics, it treats its subjects with a steady, empathetic hand. It is a story of a naive teenager evolving into a seasoned, courageous woman who finally finds the strength to reclaim her own life.

"Her steady hand keeps the perspective on Priscilla even though the temptation is to fall under the spell of the charismatic Elvis... Time will look more favorably on the movie Priscilla."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Sofia Coppola
• Starring: Cailee Spaeny, Jacob Elordi
• Supporting: Ari Cohen, Dagmara Dominczyk, Tim Post
• Studio: A24

The Vision

Coppola’s directorial fingerprints are all over this work, emphasizing internal reflection over external spectacle. Her vision prioritizes Priscilla’s perspective, resisting the urge to let the charismatic Elvis hijack the narrative. By focusing on the quiet moments of loneliness within Graceland, she highlights the "no-win situation" Priscilla’s parents faced and the emotional abuse that stemmed from Elvis’s growing addictions. It is a beautifully illustrated look at the "elephant in the room," presenting the relationship’s complexities with a sincerity that makes the third-act departure feel earned and heroic.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Venice Victory: [Cailee Spaeny](https://www.imdb.com) won the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the Venice Film Festival for her nuanced portrayal of Priscilla's growth.
• Height Difference: To emphasize Priscilla's vulnerability, Sofia Coppola frequently utilized [Jacob Elordi’s 6'5" stature](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com) to make him tower over the 5'1" Spaeny.
• Music Licensing: Unlike the 2022 biopic, this film does not feature [Elvis Presley's music](https://www.rollingstone.com) because the estate denied licensing, forcing the production to use era-appropriate covers and anachronistic indie-pop.

✅ Pros

• Touchingly personal and grounded perspective.
• Exceptional performance by Cailee Spaeny.
• Excellent directorial focus that avoids the "Elvis trap."

❌ Cons

• Slow, deliberate pacing might frustrate fans of flashy biopics.
• Lack of original Elvis music may be jarring for some.
• Exploration of the age gap remains uncomfortable and difficult.

🏆 Final Verdict

The superior Elvis-related film of recent years. It is a seasoned, experienced look at a famous relationship that finally gives the title character the understanding and sympathy she deserves.

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High and Low

 

High and Low (1963)

Akira Kurosawa at the Top of His Game

by Ray Manukay

★★★★★

Watched 24 Feb 2026

Suffice it to say, High and Low is a masterwork. Any attempt to sing its praises in written form has no doubt been done already by critics more eloquent than me. It is a film that defies articulation; it simply must be experienced. Sequence after sequence reveals new layers and challenges that Kurosawa handles masterfully.

🎬 Production Credits

Director: Akira Kurosawa

Writers: Hideo Oguni, Ryūzō Kikushima

Cinematography: Asakazu Nakai, Takao Saitō

Editor: Akira Kurosawa

Music: Masaru Sato

Based on: King's Ransom by Ed McBain

As in life, it's not an issue of doing the right thing. But the ramifications of doing the right thing. — Ray Manukay

The Dynamic Tension

The film thrives on the moral conflict of Kingo weighing the financial ruin of a ransom demand against the life of a close family friend. Kurosawa builds incredible tension in scenes where the police listen in on kidnappers, and in the meticulous police station sequences where clues are gathered. It is a showcase for a director who can keep a procedural investigation feeling immediate and breathless.

💡 Fun Facts

• The film's Japanese title, Tengoku to Jigoku, literally translates to "Heaven and Hell."
• Kurosawa famously had a house built specifically to be burned down in his pursuit of realism, though here he uses the verticality of a hillside house to literalize class divide.
• The "pink smoke" sequence was achieved through hand-coloring the film frames, a striking departure from the black-and-white cinematography.

The Performances

• Toshiro Mifune: Confirms his place among the greatest actors in history with subtle and effective emotional turmoil.
• Tatsuya Nakadai: Brilliant as the cool, methodical Inspector Tokura.
• The Ensemble: A masterclass in blocking and group dynamics, particularly in the claustrophobic first act.

✅ Pros

• Masterful direction and tension.
• Profound exploration of conscience.
• Breathtaking performances from the leads.

❌ Cons

• None. (Except waiting too long to see it).

Read the original review on Letterboxd

🏆 Final Verdict

I feel deep shame for waiting so long to see this film. Please don't make the same mistake I did. High and Low is an essential pillar of cinema that must be seen at one's earliest convenience.

Anyone But You

 

Anyone But You (2023)

A Bizarre, AI-Adjacent Jumble of Rom-Com Cliches

★★☆☆☆

Watched 09 Feb 2024 — Beautiful locales and an affable cast can't save a film that lacks the heart and chemistry to be truly touching.

Directed by Will Gluck, Anyone But You attempts to be a throwback to the golden age of 90s and early 2000s romantic comedies. However, the result feels more like a clumsy reassembly of genre stereotypes than a cohesive story. While the production design is beautiful and the cast is undeniably "easy on the eyes," the film is missing that special, undefinable element that makes the best rom-coms effective. Despite being loosely inspired by Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing, the tributes are limited to obscure callbacks that fail to ground the "ludicrous and forced" physical comedy.

"The movie feels like it was written by Artificial Intelligence. A bunch of classic romantic comedy cliches and genre stereotypes from other films have been jumbled up, reworked and clumsily reassembled into this film."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Will Gluck
• Starring: Sydney Sweeney, Glen Powell
• Supporting: Alexandra Shipp, GaTa, Hadley Robinson, Dermot Mulroney
• Studio: Sony Pictures / Columbia

The Vision

Gluck’s vision seems unabashedly focused on checking the boxes of a romantic comedy rather than simply telling a good story. By forcing silly physical jokes into a narrative that lacks genuine chemistry between its leads, the film feels synthetic. The attempt to modernize the Bard’s wit is lost in a sea of "unrecognizable easter eggs," making the proceedings feel ineffective for fans of the source material. It is a movie designed for a younger generation who might not have seen the classics, relying on "beautiful locales" to mask its lack of sincerity and believable romance.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Shakespearean Ties: The character names Bea and Ben are direct references to Beatrice and Benedick] from *Much Ado About Nothing*.
• Viral Success: Despite mixed reviews, the film became a massive [box office sleeper hit, fueled by a viral TikTok trend involving the song "Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield.
• Dermot’s Return: The inclusion of Dermot Mulroney is a meta-nod to his status as a rom-com icon from 1997's *My Best Friend's Wedding*.

✅ Pros

• Affable, attractive cast that is "easy on the eyes."
• Beautiful Australian locales and high production design.
• A successful return of the genre's commercial viability.

❌ Cons

• Lack of palpable chemistry between Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell.
• Ludicrous and forced physical comedy.
• Narrative feels like an "AI-written" jumble of cliches.

🏆 Final Verdict

A disappointing attempt to recapture the magic of the 90s rom-com. Unless you're looking for purely "harmless" fluff or are a die-hard fan of the leads, this AI-adjacent assembly of tropes may leave you cold. Up to the viewer to decide.

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