ja.ckliston

ja.cklistonhttps://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/Recent content on ja.cklistonHugoen-ieTue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000High and Lowhttps://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-31-high-and-low-1963/Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-31-high-and-low-1963/<p>Half family drama stage play, half noir police mystery, the film executes both extremely well.</p> <p>This is now my second Kurosawa movie after Seven Samurai, and once again I thoroughly enjoyed the film from start to finish. But I have to say I think Seven Samurai is more to my personal tastes. My main gripe, and it really is quite minor, is that sometimes in High and Low the emotional and theatrical acting can get a bit bombastic considering the otherwise cool noir film setting. The larger‑than‑life characters fight more with the samurai setting, as the characters are literally fighting for their life. Don’t get me wrong, the stakes are extremely high in High and Low, and most of the time, especially in the first act, I did love aspects of the more theatrical setting in the mid‑century modern home of Gondo.</p>Obtuse to Accessible: The Diverging Paths of Two Zelda Classicshttps://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-31-zelda-obtuse-to-accessible/Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-31-zelda-obtuse-to-accessible/<p>This year I am embarking on a journey to more intentionally consume all forms of media. My hope is that by reducing the volume I consume along with writing some retrospectives I can begin to rekindle a passion for the hobbies that I love. While films have been my most prolific medium to write about, and music is the one I consume the most, the prospect of writing about video games has been the most exciting. I have found that after being exposed to gaming while locked in my house throughout COVID, I never really managed to reestablish my love for it as a hobby. I moved out of my parents’ house in 2022 and never really fell into a routine or workflow that worked for gaming; consequently, I felt I wasn’t engaging as much with what was once my most beloved pastime. So, after a few years of retirement, I am making my comeback!</p>45 Yearshttps://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-30-45-years-2015/Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-30-45-years-2015/<p>I thoroughly enjoyed this film from start to finish. So beautiful, brilliantly acted, and tells a unique love story that I have never really seen told in modern cinema. So much of the modern love story centres around young characters who are falling in love, or maybe some external catalyst pushes them to a rough spot that they ultimately overcome. But 45 Years focuses on a more mature couple, and that story really lends itself well to the more grounded and intimate journey.</p>Hoop Dreamshttps://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-30-hoop-dreams-1994/Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-30-hoop-dreams-1994/<p>An unbelievable story, unparalleled access into the subjects’ lives, and an incredible use of basketball to tell a story so much more about the socioeconomic effects of the modern sports machine. It drags slightly at times due to an episodic edit that feels more like a TV series that has been glued together.</p> <p>So many times through the course of watching this documentary, I found myself thinking “I bet the production team couldn’t believe this happened.” Whatever god there is out there knew these two stories were being perceived and threw absolutely every curveball they could. The stories of Agee and Gates differ so drastically, and the way they are juxtaposed through this doc is absolutely brilliant. It feels like at each moment things get better for Gates, Agee’s story hits a new low. When Agee’s resurgence begins, Gates’ story begins to swing. They so excellently use these drastically different stories to keep the pacing super engaging.</p>Intermissionhttps://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-30-intermission-2003/Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-30-intermission-2003/<p>Hilarious throughout, but edited in such an erratic manner it feels a bit overwhelming at times.</p> <p>I went into this practically blind. While I have picked up on many references to other famous Irish films through just general osmosis, this film (other than its hilarious obsession with Chef brown sauce) has largely eluded me. So I was absolutely delighted when before the credits had even rolled I was laughing out loud. If I was to use a word to describe this film, it would have to be UNRELENTING. There are so many jokes packed into what felt like a relatively short runtime. Like any comedy movie, not every swing is a home run, but even the lines that aren’t necessarily laugh-out-loud funny are delivered with an endearing Irish charm that won me over.</p>Portrait of a Lady on Firehttps://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-30-portrait-of-a-lady-on-fire-2019/Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-30-portrait-of-a-lady-on-fire-2019/<p>I demand you watch this movie.</p> <p>As I go through this process of trying to review the films I watch, I am starting to realise I find it much harder to write about things that I like. If you are reading this review and have read some of my others, you will likely have realised I am not a very talented writer. But perhaps I am more of a “debater” or “arguer.” So when it comes to writing about a film I like EVERY aspect of, I struggle to find the words.</p>Project Hail Maryhttps://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-30-project-hail-mary-2026/Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-30-project-hail-mary-2026/<p>While certainly a fun film, I found the jovial tones at times eliminate the threat of space, impending extinction, and ultimately remove the conflict required to make a film of this runtime engaging throughout.</p> <p>PLEASE, before you take out the pitchfork… I did really enjoy this film. I am unapologetically a Ryan Gosling fan boy, and I have no problem saying it. Crazy, Stupid, Love is my favourite rom‑com of all time. I had my Drive phase as a brooding teenage boy. La La Land is a comfort movie, and I think Blade Runner 2049 is one of the best science fiction films ever made. Additionally, I don’t think the concept of mixing comedy into a sci‑fi story can’t be done. Guardians of the Galaxy has some really enjoyable films, and even at their worst moments I can find myself enjoying the light‑hearted/humorous parts of films like Star Wars.</p>How to Make a Killing, 2026 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-18-how-to-make-a-killing-2026-2026/Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-18-how-to-make-a-killing-2026-2026/<p>In the most complimentary way possible, this film is exactly what mainstream blockbuster popcorn films SHOULD be.</p> <p>I have to admit, I went into this one mostly unfamiliar with Glen Powell but absolutely aware of his existence due to the fact that he seems to be in a film every four to six months at the moment. My assumption going in, with some passing knowledge of how his other films have been received, was that this would be another example of a Hollywood actor spread too thin across multiple projects, resulting in something generic and mostly forgettable. To be honest, from a plot perspective, that is exactly what I got. The film takes little time to establish motives for most of the characters, and relationships seem to be formed at times by a simple glancing smile across a table. But Glen, and to a lesser extent Margaret (due to a relative lack of screen time), make this a funny and engaging film that I think I would recommend to almost anyone. To me, this film is like a brilliant burger spot. It’s simple, no frills, but gives you exactly what you want—unless you’re a vegetarian and know without even engaging with it that it’s not for you. If you don’t want to see an action comedy that’s happy to mostly gloss over plot holes and realistic consequences for a fun “popcorn movie,” then skip this one.</p>The Watermelon Woman, 1996 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-18-the-watermelon-woman-1996-1996/Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-18-the-watermelon-woman-1996-1996/<p>I really enjoyed this movie. I found it incredibly captivating, and the mockumentary format really served as a great vehicle to tackle the main themes of the film. By blending fiction with documentary-style realism, Cheryl Dunye creates something that feels both personal and political without ever becoming preachy.</p> <p>I thought at times some of the acting broke my immersion, as it felt like characters were reading off lines rather than fully inhabiting the moment. But for a film of this scale made on a tiny budget with first time actors that’s mostly forgivable. The heart of the film is so present that you’re willing to look past the rough edges. If anything it might even contributed to the realism of some of the dialogue as friends occasionally stumble over their words in casual workplace conversations.</p>Shanghai Express, 1932 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-shanghai-express-1932-1932/Sun, 08 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-shanghai-express-1932-1932/<p>Boring</p> <p>Honestly, if you look at other reviews, it’s very clear if you are not here to watch Marlene Dietrich this film has absolutely no substance. This is another example of how so often, films of this era struggle to cobble together more than one person with any on-screen charisma.</p> <p>“Don’t you find respectable people terribly dull…” the film asks, before proceeding to do nothing overtly disrespectable. In fact, the protagonist wins over the heart of the evangelical man by simply praying once. Films from the 30s up until the 60s quite frankly adore this aloof, laconic archetype, and I just can’t find myself getting behind it very often. On the Waterfront is an example where Brando starts as this character, but that film has a plot and a supporting cast that keep me engaged until the character development occurs and you finally want to root for him.</p>The Bride!, 2026 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-the-bride-2026-2026/Sun, 08 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-the-bride-2026-2026/<p>Penelope Cruz from G-Force!</p> <p>Jessie Buckley is given a great canvas to perform and she absolutely drives the film. She’s incoherent at times, but that reflects the mania of the character. However, the film as a whole doesn’t do a great job at helping the viewer understand the context for most of what is said.</p> <p>I think in a film driven by a character with a split personality we need more time to get to know each side before they are meshed together. It would make it easier to understand what aspects of each personality are on display at any given moment. Buckley uses two different accents, but there are also moments where, in Ida’s voice, she is being persuaded by Mary and the line becomes more and more muddled. That would be totally fine, if not in fact the entire point of the film, but because we don’t truly know the intricacies of each character, it leads to a series of puzzling monologues smattered throughout the film.</p>The Moment, 2026 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-the-moment-2026-2026/Sun, 08 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-the-moment-2026-2026/<p>A fun movie that ultimately highlights my main gripe with the entire “brat era” phenomenon.</p> <p>Alexander Skarsgård absolutely steals the show. His performance is the standout, bringing a presence and charisma that elevates every scene he’s in. Generally, I would have liked more scenes that leaned into the mockumentary style the warehouse rehearsal segments were the film’s strongest moments, and I wanted more of that energy.</p> <p>Starting the film with a Beats logo and a Star Patch logo etc. highlights for me the central problem. Other than the scene of them rehearsing the show in the warehouse, the film feels caught between satire and self-promotion.</p>A Woman Under the Influence, 1974 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-02-22-a-woman-under-the-influence-1974-1974/Sat, 21 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-02-22-a-woman-under-the-influence-1974-1974/<p>An extremely captivating yet unnerving film. Cassavetes portrays one of the most unique family dynamics I have ever seen in film. I couldn’t sit still the entire time, torn between being completely entranced by two incredible performances while also struggling not to avert my gaze in discomfort. Gena Rowlands gives one of the most incredible performances that I think at times eclipses that of Peter Falk and the rest of the cast. This is a film I thoroughly enjoyed, but I think it may not be for everyone.</p>The Nice Guys, 2016 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-02-18-the-nice-guys-2016-2016/Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-02-18-the-nice-guys-2016-2016/<p>A brilliantly hilarious film with timeless set and costume design makes this a contender for the easiest movie to recommend to any type of person that exists. Ryan Gosling’s comedic instincts playing off of Russell Crowe’s stoic demeanour create one of the greatest combinations in the “buddy cop” genre. There is a brilliant assortment of side characters, with a special shoutout to Angourie Rice, who plays Holly and has such a brilliant on-screen dynamic with her father, played by Gosling. From excellent dialogue banter to small aspects like the fact she drives him around, it feels like something from The Naked Gun. In fact, while the comedic sensibilities differ in their joke format—avoiding puns and misdirection as a central format for its comedic moments—I do feel there is a spiritual link between The Nice Guys and The Naked Gun (complimentary).</p>Wuthering Heights, 2026 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-02-18-wuthering-heights-2026-2026/Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-02-18-wuthering-heights-2026-2026/<p>At its core, an enjoyable movie that lacks the complexity to make a lasting impression. The decision to absolutely focus on the relationship of Heathcliff and Cathy leaves a perceptible void of external catalysts to make the plot engaging.</p> <p>If you have read the book but are happy to give Emerald creative control to make what is essentially a fan fiction adaptation of a classic, then I think you will really enjoy this film. If you are someone who values authenticity to the source material, just don’t watch this. If you have never read the book, I think there is a fun but at times confusing film here. It felt like reading a Twilight fan fiction but not really knowing the characters, I could fill in the gaps somewhat but was still confused by some aspects.</p>The Passion of Joan of Arc, 1928 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-02-16-the-passion-of-joan-of-arc-1928-1928/Sun, 15 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-02-16-the-passion-of-joan-of-arc-1928-1928/<p>An incredible cinematic experience where each scene contains the most painterly frame you will find in a film. Driven by a mesmerising performance from the lead actress and an incredible operatic score, this film gives you 80 minutes of pure theatrical cinema.</p> <p>My seventh film in this Criterion Channel film challenge has brought me to my first silent film of the challenge. This is easily the oldest film I have ever seen, as 20s and 30s cinema is something I am not very familiar with. Two older films I have watched in the challenge were Seven Samurai and On the Waterfront, both of which are from the 1950s, and one thing that I had noticed was how theatrical the acting in those films is relative to today’s. Even in the 50s, you can still see the influence of live theatre acting in these on-screen performances. So I was expecting to see this style even more heightened in The Passion of Joan of Arc, especially as it is a silent film where the technical limitations required the actors to convey emotions in different and much more visually apparent ways. For the first 10 minutes of the film, Falconetti’s face is stuck in this entrancing state of shock where I don’t think she blinks once, while her eyes are about to pop out of her head. Thankfully, however, what transpires through the remainder of the film is an incredibly nuanced and emotional performance executed exclusively through her facial expressions. Such a raw and compelling performance; watching her conjure tears in extremely clear close-up shots drives home this mesmerising performance.</p>Here Is Your Life, 1966 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-here-is-your-life-1966-1966/Sun, 08 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-here-is-your-life-1966-1966/<p>this is the first time I can ever remember not finishing a film. I gave it an hour, and when a film like this stands at a 3-hour runtime, I simply am not going to make it.</p> <p>Visually, this movie is intriguing. Some of the transitions have this effect that looks like they are overlaying multiple sheets of film while also running them at, like, one frame per second. Often a scene will just show footage of men working in a sawmill for five minutes set to Swedish folk music. There were some shots that were visually interesting, but I am not the kind of viewer this film is aimed at.</p>On the Waterfront, 1954 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-on-the-waterfront-1954-1954/Sun, 08 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-on-the-waterfront-1954-1954/<p>This, to me, feels like the truest form of old-school classic cinema. An aloof, strongman lead paired with an energetic, driven, and interesting female love interest who ultimately undermines what’s interesting about her by needlessly falling head over heels with the at times uncharismatic but sexy lead. All with a relatively simple plot that ultimately boils down to “is it right to do the right thing.” But boy, did I still enjoy this.</p>Send Help, 2026 - ★★★★ (contains spoilers)https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-send-help-2026-contains-spoilers-2026/Sun, 08 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-send-help-2026-contains-spoilers-2026/<p><em>This review may contain spoilers.</em></p> <p>I went into this completely blind, and I HIGHLY recommend everyone do the same. This was my first Sam Raimi film outside of the Spider-Man trilogy, and I absolutely will be visiting more of his filmography. I have a theory that this will be my favourite of his.</p> <p>Rachel McAdams steals the show here for me. I did enjoy Dylan O’Brien’s performance, but McAdams gave me something I was not aware she could do. I sincerely apologise, Rachel; I was not familiar with your game.</p>Thief, 1981 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-thief-1981-1981/Sun, 08 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-thief-1981-1981/<p>I went into this having only seen Heat but also being aware of the critical acclaim this film has received. From its generally high ratings on all platforms to references like the one in Ryan Coogler’s Criterion Closet episode. So, it’s safe to say expectations were high. Unfortunately, they weren’t met. I understand critique through comparison can be extremely reductive, but I felt at almost every step Heat far excels Thief.</p>Blue Is the Warmest Color, 2013 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-blue-is-the-warmest-color-2013-2013/Sun, 01 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-blue-is-the-warmest-color-2013-2013/<p>I find this quite a hard film to review. I was aware of the controversy around the sex scenes in this particular movie but wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. There is no denying that some of the scenes are beyond excessive, which is such a shame because (especially given the film’s plot and themes) they could have been used to show a more intimate reflection of each character’s personality. However, what transpires feels genuinely more like porn than a scene of intimacy with any story-related purpose. Additionally, certain aspects, like how Adele’s character is always shot sleeping in jarring positions without a duvet, make it very clear this film thoroughly deserves the backlash it received.</p>Iron Lung, 2026 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-iron-lung-2026-2026/Sun, 01 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-iron-lung-2026-2026/<p>This was surprisingly good. I know I gave it a bad score, but my expectations for a YouTuber movie were on the floor. I had visions of the Smosh Movie or the Fred Movie, but this absolutely felt like a standard bad movie which a normal person might just have walked into.</p> <p>I will start with some positives. I think despite the film being set entirely in one room, there were some good visual moments. The x-ray camera and coordinates being the only form of interaction with this unknown world outside of the ship created some tense moments, while also working as a good way to make a small budget feel like a compelling alien environment. Mark’s performance far exceeded my expectations, even though he very much leans on the “loud is good” school of dramatic acting at times. Ehhhhhhh—I will be honest, I think that might be the end of the good section already.</p>Saipan, 2025 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-29-saipan-2025-2025/Sun, 25 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-29-saipan-2025-2025/<p>For me, there are two types of films that I will give a 2.5 to. First is the movie that is completely average in all aspects. One that doesn’t take risks, is reasonably well-acted, and not really stylized in any meaningful way. They are often movies you will come out of the cinema and say, “Yeah, that was good,” but then when asked about the film two months later, you can’t remember a single element of the plot. The second type (I understand is stupid) is a film that truly could have been a 3.5 or a 4, but it drops the ball in such a way that not only can I not give it a 3, I now feel like I have to deduct marks out of frustration. This film is the latter of those two.</p>Seven Samurai, 1954 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-26-seven-samurai-1954-1954/Sun, 25 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-26-seven-samurai-1954-1954/<p>I am still truly awestruck after finishing this film. It feels like something that transcends so much of what you typically expect. It feels so grand, so epic, but still so incredibly human. The final act has the raw atmosphere and power of some of the largest-scale war scenes in cinema, while ultimately being about 40 bandits versus a village of farmers and the titular seven samurai.</p> <p>The intensity of the war screams, the expressions of fear on each and every extra, and the light-hearted comedic moments throughout create a true sense of impending doom while also building a cast of characters who, despite their flaws, you can’t help but root for. There are so many stories within this MASSIVE film, and each is enthralling. The relationships are captivating, and the way the film explores the class tensions which are swiftly put aside in pursuit of survival is superb.</p>Triangle of Sadness, 2022 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-25-triangle-of-sadness-2022-2022/Sat, 24 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-25-triangle-of-sadness-2022-2022/<p>I went into this film completely blind, and I HIGHLY recommend that if you intend on watching it, you stop reading and add this to your watch list. I have a lot of gripes with the film, but ultimately I thought its thoroughly enjoyable plot and interesting character relationships made it an overall enjoyable watch.</p> <p>I’ll try not to make this a long review, but visually the film is clear and concise, not overly stylized. There is one particular sequence that has some shocking physicality which, as a visual spectacle, was brilliant, but it was paired with the aspect of this film that I disliked the most.</p>Do the Right Thing, 1989 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-21-do-the-right-thing-1989-1989/Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-21-do-the-right-thing-1989-1989/<p>Spike Lee creates such a vibrant and loving world with richly drawn characters. So much of the framing throughout the film is brilliant, and many of the sets are superb. (I really loved the big red painted brick wall with the three lads and the umbrella.)</p> <p>I do, however, have two very minor gripes. First, I really think Spike should have cast someone else in the lead role, as his acting makes him stand out like a sore thumb at times. In parts, the cadence of how he delivers his lines sounds like he’s reading from a script; it very rarely feels truly conversational. Additionally, he lacks a charisma that I think the character requires to be the centrepiece of this extremely charismatic world he has built as a director. Each character is larger than life and all seem to love Mookie in a way that I think the performance lets down. Through his actions, as the viewer we can see why he is liked, but it’s hard to believe at times, as Spike’s performance can feel a bit flat.</p>Goldfinger, 1964 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-19-goldfinger-1964-1964/Sun, 18 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-19-goldfinger-1964-1964/<p>A truly jaw-dropping film for all the wrong reasons. Sure, I expected the racism, the misogyny, the amateur choreography, and the camp humor, but I hoped some kind of character or charm might win me over. For me, this fell flat on its face.</p> <p>I think how terribly some aspects of these movies have aged could almost work to create a more unique experience, one where the shortcomings in Bond’s character might lead us to perceive him as a flawed and interesting figure. But I know this isn’t a narrative this movie will explore.</p>Secret Honor, 1984 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-19-secret-honor-1984-1984/Sun, 18 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-19-secret-honor-1984-1984/<p>The more I make myself review these movies, I keep returning to a question for which I have yet to find my answer. When a director or actor makes a decision for the sake of the plot or character, a decision that makes the viewing experience less to my personal preference, even if I can admit it was the correct artistic choice—how am I to feel about this? Or if a vital aspect of the character or plot makes a film a tougher watch for me, how do I review it? In this film, this question manifests through the meandering prose of the absolutely manic Nixon depicted in this one-man show by Philip Baker Hall.</p>28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, 2026 - ★★★½ (contains spoilers)https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-18-28-years-later-the-bone-temple-2026--contains-spoilers-2026/Sat, 17 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-18-28-years-later-the-bone-temple-2026--contains-spoilers-2026/<p><em>This review may contain spoilers.</em></p> <p>First of all, Ralph Fiennes — what a performance. Holy Christ. Even just his work for the Jimmys might be the best thing I’ve seen in a cinema. Incredible.</p> <p>I really enjoyed the storyline of Samson and Ian. For me, it was easily the stronger half of the movie. Samson is such an endearing character, and their relationship was a brilliant one to watch.</p> <p>The Jimmys are a fantastic concept for a post-apocalyptic movie, and they represent what this franchise consistently does so well. It manages to reframe and reimagine social aspects of society that are affected after a cataclysmic event like this. The relationships between the Jimmys were fun, and Jack’s performance was captivating. Personally, though, I think they had a bit too much screen time. I found it hard to fully immerse myself in some of their scenes, mostly due to the absurdity of it all — especially their relationship with Spike.</p>Chueca The Movie, 2025 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-16-chueca-the-movie-2025-2025/Thu, 15 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-16-chueca-the-movie-2025-2025/<p>The short film operates in the interzone between expectation and collapse, where the fantasy of festival transcendence collides with the banal contingency of weather. The opening day of the festival cancelled due to rain hammering down on Madrid’s outskirts, rendering the site uncanny: a non-place, half-abandoned, its promise deferred. This deferral becomes the film’s motor. What could have been a narrative of disappointment mutates into something richer, a study in collective improvisation and the fragile infrastructures of friendship. Cinematographically, the film excels in capturing this liminality. Wide shots of sodden fields evoke Tarkovsky-lite melancholy, while handheld sequences in cramped apartments pulse with kinetic warmth. The score, ambient textures bleeding into brittle beats, mirrors the oscillation between inertia and euphoria, between the dead time of cancellation and the ecstatic micro-events the group engineers for themselves. What is striking is how the film resists the neoliberal logic of festival-as-consumption. Instead, it foregrounds the social as emergent, contingent, irreducible to itinerary. By the end, the rain has ceased, but the real event has already occurred: not on the stage, but in the improvised circuits of care and laughter. A minor film, perhaps, but minor in the Deleuzian sense: a quiet affirmation against the tyranny of planned enjoyment.</p>Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, 1998 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-11-fear-and-loathing-in-las-vegas-1998-1998/Sat, 10 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-11-fear-and-loathing-in-las-vegas-1998-1998/<p>Wasn’t expecting to get such a laugh out of the physical comedy in this. Some great slapstick moments paired with witty one liners made for a pretty hilarious journey. I think I actually understood about 50% of the words said in the movie, but honestly, that added to its charm.</p> <p>The chaos of the constant drug-induced psychosis creates an unrelenting pace, making it hard for anything of substance to really land until perhaps the final monologue. To me, this is a funny movie about guys doing drugs and having fun with little to no consequences, and, honestly… who cares? Some seem to think Hunter S. Thompson, and by extension this film, carry a profound meaning, while others find it borders on pretentious, drug induced slop that feigns philosophical depth. HOT CENTRIST TAKE INCOMING I think the reality lies in the middle</p>Hamnet, 2025 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-11-hamnet-2025-2025/Sat, 10 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-11-hamnet-2025-2025/<p>Jessie Buckley with one of the best performances I can remember seeing in the cinema. Such raw emotions throughout. This was a movie that made you smile, it gave you hope and then it strips it away and explores how different people cant react to one of the most traumatic events person can experience. A brilliantly acted film that builds to an incredible final moment that I felt was a bit overwhelming but that might have been the fact that the movie got me on the verge of crying and then reminded me of secondary school why showing me hamlet.</p>Punch-Drunk Love, 2002 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-11-punch-drunk-love-2002-2002/Sat, 10 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-01-11-punch-drunk-love-2002-2002/<p>That was captivating, even for a film with a rather short runtime, it felt like I blinked and it was over. I really enjoyed several moments, the characters are unusual but very endearing, the soundtrack was fun, and I liked some of the cinematography.</p> <p>I enjoyed it. But for a film to earn more than 3 stars from me, I feel it needs to offer something more. This was a fun, solid rom com, but to reach a 4 or 5, it would personally would like deeper themes, a more intricate plot, or a visually unique style. It doesn’t quite do any of that, so as a purely enjoyable watch, it caps out at a 3.</p>Bugonia, 2025 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-bugonia-2025-2025/Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-bugonia-2025-2025/<p>I am going to reserve the 5 star and and maybe a full review for a re watch in about a month…..but I think this one might be going in my top four. The soundtrack was mesmerizing, the performances are completely captivating, its a thrilling ride with a brilliant plot and an ending to boot. I cannot believe the runtime on that, it felt like I watched a 40 minute episode of a TV show.</p>Dazed and Confused, 1993 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-dazed-and-confused-1993-1993/Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-dazed-and-confused-1993-1993/<p>Fun watch, brilliant soundtrack</p> <hr> <p><em>Logged on <a href="https://letterboxd.com/jackecoute/film/dazed-and-confused/">Letterboxd</a></em></p>Y Tu Mamá También, 2001 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-y-tu-mam%C3%A1-tambi%C3%A9n-2001-2001/Fri, 02 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-y-tu-mam%C3%A1-tambi%C3%A9n-2001-2001/<p>Mandatory joke section: 1A. Terrible movie to pirate, the audio keeps randomly cutting and some random dude just keeps fucking talking over the movie in Spanish or something?? 1B. Did this just rip off challengers? 1C. Joke about diving board scene!</p> <p>Enjoyable watch, but I do think it’s somewhat carried by the last 30 minutes or so. I’m adding this to my “requires a rewatch” list, as after that ending, I would like to see a lot of the film contextualised.</p>Marty Supreme, 2025 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-marty-supreme-2025-2025/Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-marty-supreme-2025-2025/<p>Not sure yet if this is my favorite so far of the Safdie universe(will revisit this thought after a rewatch). The fact I am giving this a 4 when my personal preference of film is typically much slower is a testament to the movie. My initial reaction is at times the pacing gets frantic enough that I don’t feel like some of the scenes have time to breathe but I do think this is one I will enjoy more on a re watch. In something like Uncut gems for example each of the major bets is proceeded by some parallel events that allow you to compartmentalise each story beat. One battle after another also managed to do this for me. I am not a smart person who can easily convey my points in a concise manner so ehhh I will just be vague and say I enjoyed their pacing more. I feel like each sequence in this film comes so frantically that it results in this captivating experience but leaves a hazy recollection of the overall narrative. I think this feels like a brilliant 4 hour film that has been trimmed down.</p>One Battle After Another, 2025 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-one-battle-after-another-2025-2025/Sat, 27 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-one-battle-after-another-2025-2025/<p>For me this film does everything. Not only can it ramp up the pace to create a thrilling roller coaster of action, it can slow things down with incredible moments of humor (both written and physical). It has the most incredible array of characters, it has an incredible soundtrack, it has truly unforgettable cinematography. I think as I grow older and look back on all the great moments in Cinema I got to witness on release in the theater this one will stand out for me.</p>Megalopolis, 2024 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-megalopolis-2024-2024/Fri, 04 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2026-03-29-megalopolis-2024-2024/<p>I saw this movie in the cinema on the same day as Joker 2 and I have never had a more visceral reaction to a movie in my life. If the point of art is to evoke an emotion from the consumer it succeeded. This movie reminded me what it is to be human. It is the perfect snapshot of early onset dementia. Its humor is surprisingly puerile, leaning on slapstick and a barrage of childish erection gags . While it’s narrative weaves incoherently, creating a blurry suggestion of a story that resembles a bird nest. From its often juvenile sexual tones to truly awe inspiring line delivery and director, this is a movie like no other. An entirely unique viewing experience that truly made me feel like I was having a stroke.</p>A Fish Called Wanda, 1988 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2023-06-21-a-fish-called-wanda-1988-1988/Tue, 20 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2023-06-21-a-fish-called-wanda-1988-1988/<p>Watched on Tuesday June 20, 2023.</p> <hr> <p><em>Logged on <a href="https://letterboxd.com/jackecoute/film/a-fish-called-wanda/">Letterboxd</a></em></p>Mean Girls, 2004 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2023-04-22-mean-girls-2004-2004/Fri, 21 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2023-04-22-mean-girls-2004-2004/<p>The world would be a much more interesting place if all the “he is literally me” losers stopped watching Drive and American Psycho and watched Mean Girls instead. I want to live in a world where alt right internet goblins idealise the plastics…..</p> <hr> <p><em>Logged on <a href="https://letterboxd.com/jackecoute/film/mean-girls/">Letterboxd</a></em></p>Roman Holiday, 1953 -https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2023-04-20-roman-holiday-1953-1953/Thu, 20 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000https://blog.ja.ckliston.ie/posts/2023-04-20-roman-holiday-1953-1953/<p>Enjoyable film with some surprising comedic moments dotted throughout. Certainly some cringe performances from some of the supporting cast but really enjoyed the dynamic between the 2/3 main characters. Nice casual watch.</p> <hr> <p><em>Logged on <a href="https://letterboxd.com/jackecoute/film/roman-holiday/">Letterboxd</a></em></p>