Connor Macgregor Reviews Thread

BANNED

03-07-16

Originally Posted by MovieMad16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Jurassic Park

Before I go ahead and watch The Lost World (and review it),i want to give my thoughts out to quite simply one of the most gifted and spectacular films ever to be thrown onto the screen...Jurassic Park.

Based on The Michael Crichton novel (god rest his soul) Jurassic Park is about A very old but wealthy entrepreneur who leases an island from the government and sets about a top secret project for years.As it nears completion,he invites a bunch of experts who some are Scientists , Kids and a lawyer who plans to threaten to shut the island down.They are blown away by the mere sight of dinosaurs...yes real life dinosaurs.But then as expected trouble starts to brew and soon it is a fight for survival.

I don't know why I loved this movie so much. Maybe it was the utter amazement when I first saw the Brachiosaurus eat from a tree. Or maybe it was my adrenaline rushing when two 12 year old were attacked by velociraptors. It might possibly be the chills that went down my spine when the T-Rex first made his terrifying roar. Whatever it was, it made me write this review.

Directed by Steven Speilberg quite possibly the greatest film director alive today , Jurassic Park was a film worth sitting down and watching right through to the end.There is nothing bad to say about this film apart from asking to see "More Dinosaurs".But i guess from beginning to end it gave us many dinosaurs to shout,scream and cry throughout.The acting was also remarkable and you can tell that some actors may have got their big break with this film.

The plot is very original and with special effects as great as this , it is clear that this film will always and I mean always have a close place in my love for films.As i said before the acting is tremendous and the star of the show has to go to someone who out their heart and soul into the entire picture,in fact I would go as far to say that this person carried the entire picture...The T Rex.I mean come on didn`t it deliver.Oh and Sam Neil also did impressive in the film too.

In Conclusion if anyone hasn`t seen Jurassic Park...you are a fool for not seeing it.Simply one of the greatest films out there.I highly and i mean highly recommend it.

Grades

100 % = A+

I saw it in cinema with a buddy of mine when it came out, it was 1993.

If you're looking for just pure movie magic, I mean for something that's not real, and would be exciting, terrific and even terrifying, if you will; to be made real, then this is probably the best movie ever made. I remember watching Steven saying, and I'll paraphrase, I wanted so that every muscle, every part of an animal would look real. If not, I wouldn't wanna do it.

I haven't seen it since then, but i've always liked it.

MovieMad16

Registered User

05-30-16

Time to start doing some of these again. Its been a while...

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Bad Neighbours 2

I'm never a fan of unnessacary sequels, so seeing Bad Neighbours 2 was just out of curiosity from the first film than anticipation. Did it live up to number one?

Mac (Seth Rogen) and Kelly (Rose Byrne) are ready to make the final move into adulthood. But just as they thought they have reclaimed the neighborhood, they learn that their new neighbors are even more out of control than the last. To evict them, they will need help from their ex neighbor (Zac Efron).

This isn't a bad sequel. Compared to the first film, its right on par in terms of story, performances, and clever comedy. The story flows well and I was never bored whilst watching. The real highlight of this film for me was Chloe Grace Moretz, who plays Shelby and really carries the film overall. Whenever she is on screen, she shines the most. Her character really at the end of the day is a teenager, whose looking for the perfect college experience. It just so happens to be right where Mac & Kelly are living, and thus all the problems from Film 1 begin again, only with more risk and consequence.

If there was one flaw, it would be the lack of a strong finale. It was a very weak climax and felt anti-climatic in some ways. It just ends. And no real payoff towards it. It was quite disappointing to watch and felt it needed something flashier and more grand to make it that little better.

But overall, its not a bad film, and it kills time if you want something silly and not too over the top.

Rating - 73% - B+

MovieMad16

Registered User

07-09-16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Batman Vs Superman: Dawn Of Justice

This is a cinematic clash long in the making: The Dark Knight Vs The Man Of Steel. Literally, a crossover so anticipated, that fans could not wait any longer. And then it arrived...and then people hated it.

The general public is concerned over having Superman on their planet and letting the "Dark Knight" - Batman - pursue the streets of Gotham. While this is happening, a power-phobic Batman tries to attack Superman.,Meanwhile, Superman tries to settle on a decision, and Lex Luthor, the criminal mastermind and millionaire, tries to use his own advantages to fight the "Man of Steel".

So it's clear that this film isn't perfect. Compared to Man Of Steel, its a huge downgrade. Whilst Man Of Steel wasn't perfect itself, it was still a strong film, which held up well. This does well, though not as much as Man Of Steel. The positives are clear. Performances are very good, especially from Amy Adams & Ben Affleck. Controversial? Yes, but they did well and it should be applauded. Henry Cavill of course looks the part, and physically embodies Superman perfectly. Gal Gadot debuts as Wonder Woman and is surprisingly intriguing in the part, adding a depth of mystery and intrigue, with the eagerness to see more. Jessie Eisenberg was ok as Lex Luthor, but nothing else.

And now for the negatives. I felt the cinematography for this film sucked hard. The camera work was all over the place, cutting too quickly, and gave me as a viewer a bit of a headache. It was disorientating at times. And then the second act itself was very dull. Not much happening, or even moving forward. It wasn't until the Batman/Superman fight kicking off did the film really bring back its edge again.

Overall, Batman V Superman was disappointing in places, and could've been better if some rewrites and rehires were put in place. Or maybe it was the magic touch of Nolan that could've made this film better.

Rating - 62% - B

MovieMad16

Registered User

07-09-16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Fifty Shades Of Grey

Before you ask, No! I didn't see this in a cinema, nor buy it on DVD. That's right, I'll happily admit to seeing this film illegally online. Sometimes, you just have to. And with a film like Fifty Shades Of Grey, there wasn't any other option.

When Anastasia Steele, a literature student, goes to interview the wealthy Christian Grey as a favor to her roommate Kate Kavanagh, she encounters a beautiful, brilliant and intimidating man. The innocent and naive Ana starts to realize she wants him. Despite his enigmatic reserve and advice, she finds herself desperate to get close to him. Not able to resist Ana's beauty and independent spirit, Christian Grey admits he wants her too, but on his own terms. Ana hesitates as she discovers the singular tastes of Christian Grey - despite the embellishments of success, his multinational businesses, his vast wealth, and his loving family, Grey is consumed by the need to control everything.

I'm going to start with the positives, and yes, there are positives. The cinematography in this film is actually quite dazzling. Seamus McGarvey shoots this with impeccable taste as if it's a feast for the eyes. Camerawork is cool and collective, the colours are fitting to the mood, and you actually get a sense somewhat of the tension throughout the film. In addition, one performance I actually found quite good: Dakota Johnson. Having to carry a weak script, she actually musters out a somewhat strong performance, and actually makes the character of Ana Steele somewhat likeable.

With those small positives come a dollop of negatives. Let's start with the stiffness acting that comes from Jamie Dornan, an actor who can deliver great performances (The Fall anyone?), but just can't seem to give this character any life at all. This concludes with the overall lack of chemistry between the two leads, which then proceeds to make the sex scenes in this film, boring and unerotic. And when you achieve that, you pretty much destroy the soul reason for this film existing in the first place. Add to that also, the dull story of the film which is both unconvincing and endorses abusive controlling behaviour at the same time. And this film went on to make $571 million worldwide.

Overall, Fifty Shades Of Grey is a mess of a film which only exists for a cash grab. Nothing else, so don't bother.

Rating - 30% - C-

MovieMad16

Registered User

07-09-16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Mitt

A documentary about a man who was almost president.Not revolutionary, but still an interesting watch.

Mitt Romney, with the support of his family, made two major campaigns for the Office of the President of the United States in the 2008 and 2012 campaigns. This film takes an intimate portrait of the Romney family during these bids through the initial decision to run, the primaries and the general election itself as the former Governor of Massachusetts experiences the highs and lows of his ultimately unsuccessful campaign.

A film about the behind the scenes of a presidential campaign is always going to spark interest. And whilst this is a nice watch, it's not very revolutionary in its content. To start with the negatives, if you're someone who isn't warm to conservative values, you won't find yourself warming to Mitt Romney as a person. Sure, he's definitely human as evidenced in this film, but still feels emotionally distant than the film wants you to believe.

Some positives? Well, the film gives us a nice look behind both his campaigns, and gives us a little insight about what a presidential candidate has to go through, physically & mentally throughout the long span. The Romney family are also interesting to watch. Whether or not you agree with their politics, your assured that they are people, and do love each other very much. Mitt seems to be a solid father, and his children do love and support him, throughout the long campaign. Especially his wife, who is there every step of the way.

Overall, while not a documentary classic, Mitt is an assuring documentary that lets us pull the curtain, and observe a presidential candidate who gives his all for the white house.

Rating - 71% - B+

MovieMad16

Registered User

07-17-16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Don Jon

Joseph Gordon-Levitt takes a crack at directing for a change, telling an interesting quirky story about love, addiction, and seeing people for who they truly are.

Jon Martello objectifies everything in his life: his apartment, his car, his family, his church, and, of course, women. His buddies even call him Don Jon because of his ability to pull "10s" every weekend without fail. Yet even the finest flings don't compare to the transcendent bliss he achieves alone in front of the computer watching pornography. Dissatisfied, he embarks on a journey to find a more gratifying sex life, but ends up learning larger lessons of life and love through relationships with two very different women.

For me, this film is really enjoyable. It's nice to see Joseph Gordon-Levitt go behind the camera for a change, as well as in front of it, and present us with a really nice story. His performance is good in this, as he's clearly having a lot of fun with his character, and his emotional journey throughout the film. As a director, he seems capable. Not the flashiest with the camera, nor creating the most powerful performances of all time. But he's good and has a clear understanding of what he is doing. Another one who's good here is Scarlett Johansson, who plays Jon's love interest. Whilst sweet at first, we soon discover that she's no woman to be messed with, creating a lot of dilemma and conflict for Jon throughout the film. They act well together, and have some pretty nice chemistry, particularly with the dinner scene with Jon's family.

Overall, Don Jon is a good film. Definitely rental worthy in my opinion. It's not a must see, but it's definitely something you should put on top of your list if you want some good quality entertainment.

Rating - 80% - B+

Gideon58

Registered User

07-26-16

[quote=MovieMad16;1524101]Time to start doing some of these again. Its been a while...

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Bad Neighbours 2

I thought the first film was kind of stupid and really had no interest in watching the sequel but your review has me re-thinking this position.

Gideon58

Registered User

07-26-16

Originally Posted by MovieMad16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Fifty Shades Of Grey

Liked this movie a lot more than you did, but sure enjoyed reading your review.

Gideon58

Registered User

07-26-16

Originally Posted by MovieMad16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Annie Hall

You and I might be the only people on the planet who don't consider this film to be Woody's masterpiece...I think your review is pretty much on the money. I think Woody has made at least half a dozen films that are better than this one.

Gideon58

Registered User

07-26-16

Originally Posted by MovieMad16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Alice

I liked this film too and I agree with you about Keye Luke.

MovieMad16

Registered User

07-27-16

[quote=Gideon58;1551037]

Originally Posted by MovieMad16

Time to start doing some of these again. Its been a while...

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Bad Neighbours 2

I thought the first film was kind of stupid and really had no interest in watching the sequel but your review has me re-thinking this position.

If you didn't like one, then I don't think two would be any better. Chloe Grace is good in it though.

MovieMad16

Registered User

07-27-16

Originally Posted by Gideon58

Liked this movie a lot more than you did, but sure enjoyed reading your review.

Cool. It could've been better. Cinematography was very good, and I feel Dakota Johnson was at least trying in the role. But it wasn't great.

MovieMad16

Registered User

07-27-16

Originally Posted by Gideon58

I still can't believe this film beat Star Wars at the oscars.

MovieMad16

Registered User

07-27-16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Thor:The Dark World

The first Thor was a solid film that launched Chris Hemsworth's career across the world. But can the sequel live up to the hype?

There are nine realms of Asgard and once every 5,000 years they align. Earth happens to be one of these realms. These realms create portals between the worlds during the alignment which is called "Convergence". On Earth, in London, Jane Foster believes she and her crew have discovered one such portal. Foster, while investigating the phenomenon, is transported to another realm and comes in contact with a substance called Aether. Upon coming into contact with the substance, it draws Thor from Asgard back to Earth. Thor takes Jane to Asgard to be cured from the Aether. Unfortunately in doing so it draws more than just Jane to that world. Another being called Malekith wants to use the Aether to destroy Asgard. Devising a plan with his brother - the war criminal Loki, Thor heads to "The Dark World" to destroy the Aether and save Asgard. But can Loki be trusted?

For a sequel, Thor 2 is a let down in many ways. It fails to have a strong plot, and most of the rewarding moments come from Tom Hiddleston as Loki. Sadly, his role isn't as big as the first film or The Avengers. It's more reduced and self contained, and that hurts the film in many ways. For starters, the film overall is far too long and has some huge pacing issues. The final fight scene is boring, and none of the dialogue is as strong as the first. I felt that there was far too much time spent on Asgard when there didn't really need to be. I preferred the idea of this film being more of a road film, seeing Thor & his team going to different worlds. But too much time on Asgard killed the film for me as a result. Performances were fine, Visuals were fine, but story was the big hurt here.

Overall, Thor 2 is a let down sadly. The plot hinders the rest of the film, and makes this entry a forgettable one in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Rating - 73% - B+

MovieMad16

Registered User

07-27-16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Ghostbusters (2016)

So, I caved in. I had a free cinema ticket from a previously botched film at the cinema which I'd been tending to use for some time. And I thought Ghostbusters would be the perfect one, considering I wasn't actually spending any money towards it, even if it did suck. And did it? Well...

Following a ghost invasion of Manhattan, paranormal enthusiasts Erin Gilbert and Abby Yates, nuclear engineer Jillian Holtzmann, and subway worker Patty Tolan band together to stop the otherworldly threat.

I'm going to start with the bad first before talking about the stuff I liked. If your looking for a good comedy, this isn't one of them. If anything, the comedy is lazy and dull to sit through. I only managed to get 2 laughs and a handful of chuckles at best, but this is no laugh fest I assure you. In general, the film is formulaic and unremarkable. Nothing really stands out as unique and new. It's just your standard hollywood reboot which really doesn't break any new ground.

Now for the good stuff. The funniest talent in this film is Chris Hemsworth. Some people will say he's too over the top, but I think this is a role that really worked for him. Hemsworth does comedy so well, and this film really demonstrated his comedic chops perfectly. Another cast member who did well was Kate McKinnon, who was wacky and loopy whilst not being too over the top with it. I'd even say Leslie Jones had some ok moments too.

But for what it is overall, Ghostbusters is pretty forgettable for the most part. Its effects are too splashy, and a plot very forgettable. But cast wise, its good and they are least trying to make the film good.

Rating - 57% - B-

MovieMad16

Registered User

07-30-16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Chef

Coming off major blockbusters like Iron Man & Cowboys vs Aliens, Jon Faverau needed to really get back down to basics for his next film. And the end result was Chef.

Carl Casper is an acclaimed chef with a family life that seems as decaying as his artistic freedom. Those frustrations boil over into a raucous viral-videoed public confrontation against a restaurant critic who panned his cooking of food that his boss ordered him to make against his instincts. Now with his career ruined, Carl's ex-wife offers an unorthodox solution in Miami: refit an old food truck to offer quality cooking on his own terms. Now with his young son, Percy, and old colleague, Martin, helping, Carl takes a working trip across America with that truck to rediscover his gastronomic passion. With Percy's tech savvy and Martin's enthusiasm, Carl finds that he is creating a traveling sensation on the way home. In doing so, Carl discovers he is serving up more than simply food, but also a deeper connection with his life and his family that is truly delicious in its own way.

For me, what makes this film so good for me is Jon Faverau. His performance is truly terrific in this. He plays a father whose life isn't perfect, but is satisfied in where he is. His downfall in Act I is sad to see, but the rest of the film and the climb back up is very rewarding to watch, and its all channelled in Faverau's performance. Emjay Anthony's performance as his son Percy is also great, and one of the best young kid performances I've seen in a film for quite a long time. Its a strong father-son film, allowing you to watch the father/son dynamic rebuild beautifully and come full circle at the end. Also, if your a food lovvie, you'll really love this film. It's a film that really captures the passion of food making and the hard work that sees its just rewards at the end.

That being said, I did feel the film had an anti-climatic ending to it. Without spoilers, I just felt it could've been built up more and not end abruptly like it did. Seeing other reviews on this site, one compared Jon Faverau to Woody Allen with this film. I tend to disagree really. I think this film has its similarities with Woody's work, but it just doesn't have the same troupes or recurring themes that you see in his work.

Overall, Chef is a good indie flick with a nice father-son message, and a rare underrated gem that really captures the spirit of food making.

Rating - 92% - A

Beatle

BANNED

08-09-16

Originally Posted by MovieMad16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Harry Potter And The Half Blood Prince

Ah boy how i love my Harry Potter.The past 5 films have been almost top notch.The First film was very good and so was the second (although i didn`t like the plot,but it did tell Voldermort`s past). The Third film is my favourite and the fourth film was done really well.Fifth was too short but the ending was good fun to watch.The sixth....is really good.

In the sixth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft, and in both wizard and muggle worlds Lord Volemort and his henchmen are increasingly active. With vacancies to fill at Hogwarts, Professor Dumbledor persuades Horace Slughorn, back from retirement to become the potions teacher, while Professor Snape receives long awaited news. Harry Potter, together with Dumbledore, must face treacherous tasks to defeat his evil nemesis.

After watching it,i was throughly enjoyed.Everything was pretty much picture perfect,no problems,no glitches and no editing out.However two problems.1 is the burrow scene which wasn`t in the book and geeky fans are complaining.I don`t know what this will do to the 7th story but who knows.It was ok but i wish there was more duelling because in this film there wasn`t much of it.2nd Problem was the ending which i would like to call "The Unhappy Event".The book version of "The Unhappy Event" contained a massive duel and a funeral after.In the film there was just a short duel and them mourning over the dead body.It was powerful stuff but i felt like they could have done more.That is really all i have to say on problems.The rest was gold.The focus on the teens and evolving into manhood was very well done.You can tell where things will go in the 7th film.

Directing was better than 5.It wasn`t bad in 5 but i felt that all the magic in 5 was gone.David Yates kind of got the spark back in 6 but not enough.The most magical directing was either 1 or 3.Yates is a good director who has directed many good films but when he directed 5 i felt he was draining the magic out of Harry Potter.With this film he kind of got the magic back.

The story and writing was pretty much what i expected.The ending was of course bad,but Daivid Yates wants to "Not confuse viewers with another "Upcoming Battle"".But the writing was good and the story went well in pace.The person who writes the screenplay has wrote all 5 films and i felt this was maybe his 3rd best work.

Star Of The Film goes to Michael Gambon who plays Dumbledore.He got more airtime and he delivered better.There is one scene where you can tell he is gay.But he does deliver a serious performance.And the climax is also a great bit of acting for him.Alan Rickman i also have to give credit because he did well and of course Tom Felton,he was very good.

In Conclusion Half Blood Prince isn`t the best but it does deserve to bed Highest Grossing Film of the year.I might even see it again to help it out.

Grades

78% - B+ - A Very Good Film.

My favorite is the last one (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows 2), which didn't exist when you were writing this. This one's near the top.

View Spoilers

WARNING: "Ending" spoilers below

I love it how Snape was made in such a way that you just don't know if he's good or evil until the very end of the franchise. It finaly turns out he is good, being told by Dumbledore that he must kill him in order to gain Valdemort's full thrust.

MovieMad16

Registered User

08-09-16

I'm thinking of doing a re-review of the potter films before Fantastic Beasts comes out. That means giving Half Blood Prince a third look, which is a bit silly.

View Spoilers

WARNING: spoilers below

Regarding Snape, it was very much like that in the book. Hence why its so sad when we finally find out his true motivation and why. He's an extremely underrated character, and one of those I reckon JK Rowling loved writing.

MovieMad16

Registered User

08-11-16

Connor Macgregor Reviews...Finding Dory

You can be sure that Pixar can make great sequels, and sometimes better sequels from acclaimed first editions. But with a film like Finding Nemo, can a sequel really top the first?

Dory is a wide-eyed, blue tang fish who suffers from memory loss every 10 seconds or so. The one thing she can remember is that she somehow became separated from her parents as a child. With help from her friends Nemo and Marlin, Dory embarks on an epic adventure to find them. Her journey brings her to the Marine Life Institute, a conservatory that houses diverse ocean species. Dory now knows that her family reunion will only happen if she can save mom and dad from captivity.

Much like the first film, Finding Dory is a gem of a film. You're immediately absorbed into the world of the film, the gorgeous visuals of the ocean, and all the incredible characters that are introduced. But by far the star is Dory, voiced by the talented Ellen Degeneres. She gives Dory so much personality and makes such a fantastic character to watch on screen. She carries the film all the way through, and you don't get bored of her once. Albert Brooks also as Marlin is a welcome return.

The film is also a fantastic spokesfilm (That's a new word - forgive me.) on disability, particularly mental disability. Dory's short term memory loss is a huge obstacle to get over, one that she must overcome in hope of ever finding her parents again. I think a lot of people with any disability can take away something from this film; mainly the message of however big your mountain is, you can surely climb to the top, whatever it takes.

Its also not a repeat of film one story wise. It's a new story with exciting new worlds, twists & turns along the way. At the beginning, you get the illusion that it is going to be film 1 again. But it takes a new turn, and becomes its very own film in that instance. That is very refreshing to see, and one of the things I would love to see in future sequels. In addition to new story is new characters, from new cast members. My favourite is Destiny played by Caitlin Olsen. A very light hearted sweet character who is leagues away to whom Caitlin plays most of the time. The Octopus played by Ed O Neill is also great fun to watch, and has his own little character arc in the film. Idris Elba & Dominic West also play seals who are great comic reliefs in the story.

Overall, Finding Dory is a strong sequel to a classic animation. It builds on the world, adds new funny characters, and can potentially become a classic all on its own.

Rating - 99% - A

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