Some Dude Reviews Movies

When I was in college, I took a Theatre History course. I mean, I had to: it was required. But it was an excellent experience with an incredible professor and it remains a source of many happy memories. That class covered all of the major styles and movements in theatre. Which included a brief stint in melodrama and minstrelcy. I was shocked and taken by American Minstrelcy. So my professor suggested that I go find a film called Bamboozled (2000), by Spike Lee, and give it a watch. It was hard to find. I believe I finally found a copy to request at Fresno State's (my alma matter's) library. I honestly can't say that I was ready for that movie. I was confused and a little angry at it. But it stayed with me. Then, flash forward some many years later, to 2019, and The Criterion Collection announces a restored transfer to be released on BluRay. Fast forward to a few days ago, in 2020, when racial tensions in this country have been brought to th...

I love it when film-makers make the most of small budgets. When a shoe-string production comes along and wallops you on the head with smart production and engaging ideas. The Endless , a 2017 film from directors Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead, is one such film. I. What Is It? This is the story of Justin (Benson) and Aaron (Moorhead), two brothers who escaped a cult  when they were younger. It's been ten years, and their lives haven't gone anywhere. In a bid to reach some form of closure, and after receiving a mysterious tape from one of the cult members, the brothers decide to return. One day. One evening. It quickly gets more complicated than that. *** This is a movie whose story goes to some very interesting places. In honor of trying to keep those twists and turns thrilling for anyone who watches this film, I will endeavor to stay away from spoilers from here on out*** II. Auteurs Moorhead and Benson are excellent film-makers. But th...

Groundhog Day (1993) is one of my favorite films. It works on every level. It's a screwball comedy that, upon reflection, dives into some heady waters. Everyone can enjoy that movie. Movies that feature time loops are inevitably compared to Groundhog Day : "ah, it's  Groundhog Day as a war movie ( Edge of Tomorrow [2014])," or, "ah, it's Groundhog Day as a horror film ( Happy Death Day [2017]), etc, etc. Some films undergo this scrutiny well, while others suffer for it. Palm Springs  (2020) is Groundhog Day  that doubled down on being a Rom Com. And it wiggles its way out from under Groundhog Day 's shadow. I. What Is It? This is the story of Nyles (Andy Samberg) and Sarah (Cristin Milioti): they are stuck in a time loop at a wedding. Nyles is there as the boyfriend of one of the bridesmaids and Sarah is there as the Maid of Honor. The set-up is that simple, and to discuss any more would dampen this thing's vibe. II. ...