Holiday Movie Suggestions 2: Halloween

WARNING: The following movies I am reviewing are all extremely inappropriate for children. If you were hoping for recommendations for a family movie night, then this post is not for you. Feel free to read my first Holiday Movie Suggestions for Halloween back in 2016 for more kid friendly material. Thank you!

This year, Halloween landed on a Wednesday- smack dab in the middle of the week. So, I'm sure a lot of people celebrated the spooky holiday during the weekend, but if you're still in the spirit to rattle your bones with some creepy movies then you came to the right place. The following movies I'll be talking about aren't necessarily made specifically for Halloween, but could be watched around this time if you're looking to be disturbed. I have seen all of them fully.

I was to stress that these movies can be very shocking for most viewers, but I picked them because as  a viewer myself, they stood out to me. Whether they be for good or bad reasons, you'll discover shortly. I'd suggest watching any of these if you're looking to be scared, and not just a quick jumpscare. Like, contemplate life and human decency- terrified.

*All movie summaries are from Imdb.com*
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OLDBOY (2003)

After being kidnapped and imprisoned for fifteen years, Oh Dae-Su is released, only to find that he must find his captor in five days.

Trailer- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HkjrJ6IK5E

Rating- R
Genre- action/drama/mystery
Warnings- disturbing imagery/extreme violence/body mutilation/swearing/attempted sexual assault/sexual content

'Oldboy' is an adaptation of a comic by the same name that was created by Nobuaki Minegishi. This movie is directed by Chan-wook Park and written by Garon Tschiya, and is about a man named Dae-su Oh (Min-sik Choi) who is suddenly freed from incarceration after over a decade. After his release, he vowed to kill the man who put him in his entrapment in the first place. 

Make sure that if you want to watch 'Oldboy' that you're checking out the original Korean version made back in 2003. While this is the only version of the story that I've watched, I've heard that Spike Lee's version in 2013 lacks what makes the original so great. This story will leave you speechless; you may think you know where it is heading but by the time you're done with it, it will stay with you for a while. I don't think it's anything enlightening where you learn a lesson about your own life, but rather makes you think of how disturbing everything gets as the story movies on.

The character is very tragic, but is no victim. He gets out of prison ready to fight and there are a lot of gruesome and well executed fight scenes that an action fan will love. The choreography is stellar, and it made me want to get out of my bed and kick some butt too. With violence usually comes some bloody and wince-inducing scenes and that's exactly what this movie gives you, so if you're uneasy by that idea then this isn't the movie for you. There are also sexual scenes including nudity and an intense, prolonged sex scene that could make one uncomfortable if they're viewing this with other people, so be aware of that before you even consider watching this for family movie night.

This is such a gritty, intense film that might leave you screwed up and numb by the end of it with its psychological twists. It might also make you confused as well depending on how you interpret the ending. I think it's worth it though; I'd recommend at least one viewing by yourself or maybe with some close friends who can bare a few uncomfortable moments. 

I give 'Oldboy' a 5 out of 5 stars.

TEETH (2007)

Still a stranger to her own body, a high school student discovers she has a physical advantage when she becomes the object of male violence.

Trailer- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCGbdgm0B_Q

Rating- R
Genre- comedy/fantasy/horror
Warnings- disturbing imagery/extreme violence/swearing/body mutilation/sexual content/sexual assault

(Description on Poster: Every rose has its thrones)

'Teeth' is an American film that was directed and written by Mitchell Lichtenstein and it is one of the strangest horror comedies I've ever watched. When you think you've seen it all, something comes along to prove you wrong and at the time I watched this 'Teeth' was that movie that made me question whether I should admire or be disgusted at the writer's creativity. 

You can probably take a good guess by the poster and summary what the lead character's advantage is when fending off desperate men, and it's just as uncomfortable and shocking as you can imagine. This movie follows the life of Dawn (Jess Weixier) who is an active member of her high school chastity club, but after an encounter with a boy she discovers that she is the living example of a deadly myth.

I see this movie as an odd cautionary tale by how often Dawn is placed in uncomfortable situations with the male population. There are countless scenes where Dawn is learning more about her ability because of how often she is being assaulted by people. This alone can drive many people away from this movie as a lot of these scenes are visual on screen, and I remember part of myself regretting watching this. 

You just grow a distrust for any man on the planet by the time you're done with this film, but since this is a comedy I think what the writer was going for it an exaggeration on what actually occurs in real like and what people in those situations would love to do to their assaulters. If you take it that route and see this more as Dawn being a strong female character, then this movie can become very enjoyable for you. 

While the violence is enough to make you want to close your legs tighter together, some of the attacks are just so ridiculous based on the reactions of the victims and even Dawn, that it could illicit a laugh or two. I could definitely see how this is a comedic film, but for me, I was was growing sick seeing the constant mistreatment of the main character happening over and over. Still, it is a fairly cheesy movie that is out of this world that could be a laugh riot for you or a group of friends. Just note that this might deter you from having any sexual relations for a couple of days.

I give 'Teeth' a 3 out of 5 stars.

DEADGIRL (2008)

Two high school boys discover an imprisoned woman in an abandoned mental asylum who cannot die.

Trailer- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zU1oTQGRHCw

Rating- R
Genre- horror
Warnings- disturbing imagery/extreme violence/swearing/body mutilation/necrophilia/graphic sexual assault

'Deadgirl' comes from the mind of writer, Trent Haaga and is directed by Marcel Sarmiento and Gadi Harel. This is a movie that would be alarming to the average viewer as it focuses mainly on someone who is not even alive. Two teenage boys discover a female body in an abandoned building that they come to realize while she is animate, she is also dead. What the boys decide to do with that body may leave you with your stomach churning- I know it did for mine. 

I don't know what I was expecting really; I had a feeling that this would dive into some dark areas of humanity that scares me the most because of how real some of the events in this movie can actually happen. The story follows each of the boys as they conflict over what should become of the dead girl, and the girl herself is the victim between their dispute. The story eventually expands to other characters who have their own intentions for the girl, and this ultimately ends up being this macabre observation on how easily people are swayed to act upon their impulses with the promise of pleasure.

This too is a movie where by the end of it you'll be disgusted with all of the male characters and wish nothing but hell for them. It desensitizes any sort of humanity they have, and unlike 'Teeth' it is not done as a way to be funny. It just is. 

The setting is awfully dull with dark aesthetics taking place mostly in the building where the dead girl is found. There are a lot of bloody scenes and scenes that are simply gross in its nature. You could probably imagine what would be gross about having a dead girl "alive" and all. There's also several scenes including terrible images of assault- physical and sexual.

I would recommend watching this if you have a strong stomach to brace for the duration of this movie. I wouldn't watch it again because I remember being so angry by the end and wondering why was it all necessary. All I could think of is the fact that people can be down right evil, and this is an example of how being vulnerable can motivate those people to commit heinous acts. This movie will leave you with a bad stomach, distrust for the male population, and a lot more questions asked than answered. 

I give 'Deadgirl' a 1 1/2 out of 5 stars.

ZOMBEAVERS (2014)

A fun weekend turns into madness and horror for a bunch of groupies looking for fun in a beaver infested swamp.

Trailer- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xR-SMWo0hHI

Rating- R
Genre- comedy/horror
Warnings- disturbing imagery/extreme violence/swearing/sexual content

(Description on poster: You'll all be damned!)

'Zombeavers' is a comedy horror flick that was directed by Jordan Rubin and also written by him, along with Al and Jon Kaplan. Judging by the title, I knew that I was in for a wild ride. You cannot tell me that you'd expect something serious from a title like 'Zombeavers' and you never do. 

It's about some stereotypical teenage friends who go on vacation to have fun on a campsite when they're suddenly faced with killer beavers. The beavers were actually terrifying to look at; obviously they look fake, but it still gives off a chill down my spine. Because of this, there are some bloody moments and moments where the victims of the beavers undergo some transformation that is even more scary to look at. However, you probably wouldn't care about who dies because what's usually associated with stereotypes? Little to no character arc.

These characters are carbon copies of either the typical get drunk and have sex teenager or the pure innocent virgin teenager. There's no in-between, but this movie does have a couple of plot twists that worked to its favor. Nearing the end, I wasn't sure about where this story would lead and with a story about killer beavers, it's not that hard for the movie to keep your attention. 

There was poor acting, but I'm sure that was just attributing to the comedy aspect of it. It might make you laugh, but I'm personally not a fan of acting that tries really hard to be bad that it's just bad acting in general. There is certainly at least one sex scene that is- again- used for comedic purposes but is still a little visually graphic. I would recommend this movie if you want to get a good laugh out of teenagers biting the dust to some animals. As funny as it can be, it's nothing a child should watch. It's better to watch with some good friends who you could joke with and rant about how you'd survive better than any of the characters in this film.

I give 'Zombeavers' a 1 1/2 out of 5 stars.

RAW (2016)

An innocent teenager, studying to be a vet, develops a craving for human flesh.

Trailer- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFlXVX2af_Y

Rating- R
Genre- drama/horror
Warnings- disturbing imagery/extreme violence/swearing/cannibalism/sexual content

(Description on poster: What are you hungry for?)

'Raw' is a French movie that was directed and written by Julia Ducournau. It follows Justine (Garance Marillier) a girl just beginning her first year at a veterinary college when she is overcome with the desire for human flesh. I remember that it took me until the very end of the movie to figure out why in the world the lead would suddenly crave this, but if you were to watch this a second time the clues are several and nearly obvious. However, in relation to the first time I watched this I felt puzzled by the whole situation and the characters' actions didn't help at all.

In this universe, being a cannibal is uncommon yet everyone including Justine treats it as if she just got a paper cut and is just waiting for it to heal itself. I was shouting internally for her to just visit a nurse and see what the cause was for this behavior, but that never even crosses her mind. On top of that, practically every character you meet is unlikable and makes the viewing of this movie rather draining.

However, since I know that there are hints to the truth behind Justine's hunger for other human beings, I do like the mystery behind it. That mystery motivated me to continue watching and figure out what was happening- or rather why it was happening. Once the ending comes along, if you were as clueless as me then it would hit you like a bullet.

Even so, it's like a cycle: with one good thing about this movie, it brings me back to my faults with it. Once you know the twist, you wonder why certain characters acted a certain way in the first place. What happens to Justine could have been better avoided, but it's not, and that leaves me annoyed.

There's a lot of scenes that involve blood and dead animals, plus harm done to the human body, making it a lot of body mutilation for one movie. There are also some intimate scenes and a graphic sex scene that could make even the most sex positive person uncomfortable.

I watched 'Raw' because I heard a lot of praise for this movie, and while it's not the worst thing in the world, it just didn't sit well with me. The character motivations are unpredictable, the plot is mostly just build up to the twist which makes you question everything you just watched, but the cinematography is well done and some scenes provided a good sense of tension that still stick with me now.

I give 'Raw' a 3 out of 5 stars.

The Hate U Give (2018)

Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. Now, facing pressure from all sides of the community, Starr must find her voice and stand up for what's right. (Source- Imdb.com)

Trailer- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MM8OkVT0hw

Rating- PG-13
Genre- crime/drama
Warnings- disturbing imagery/minor language

This is a movie that was used to encourage people to speak out against racial injustice, and nowadays a lot of people need that push to fight for their rights more than ever. I don't think for a second that our modern day world is worse than the past, or else I'd be more likely to be discriminated against for my multiracial background or even killed without anyone having a shed of sympathy for my soul. However, that doesn't mean I think everything is perfect- there's still a lot of things society must fix. 

Racism is still alive and 'The Hate U Give' demonstrates how this plagues our society, how those fighting for justice could both promote or hinder their cause, and how the actions of an individual can help change the world- no matter how big or small.

We see this story play out through the narrative of Starr Carter (Amanda Stenberg), a teenage girl who struggles to figure out how to stand up for her best friend after he was killed by a police officer. She wonders how to balance between fighting for her friend and staying hidden for her own protection. To what extent can she exert herself to the media to talk about this tragedy without compromising her own safety? The audience and I were there to watch the events unravel and find out for ourselves, and also see if this movie addressed the issues in a mature manner.

Keeping that in mind, did the movie give me an enlightening experience or is it something that I hate with a passion?

This movie was an adaption from Angie Thomas' book of the same name that was published last year in 2017. As far as the movie version goes, the plot was well crafted, with just a few hiccups. These hiccups ranged from minuscule to why did that even matter to the story. As I mentioned earlier, Starr turns to activism after the death of her friend, but most of the movie follows the build up to that point. I really appreciated how the film addressed the inner turmoil of Starr and showed that even till the very end of the story, you can tell she has hesitation with the lengths she willing to go towards to protest. 

One of the major reasons why Starr doesn't want to speak for Khalil is because of her fear of being judged, since she attends a private, mostly caucasian high school. Not only does she face the grief of losing a friend, but the worry that others will perceive her differently because of it. She feels the need to battle between the side of her that lives in her neighborhood riddled with looming threats from gangs in the area, and the side of her that she forces herself to be a more polite and quiet person at school to not have students react to her negatively. I would imagine that some people would find this behavior to be unreal, like who needs to change themselves for two groups of people?

I think deep down everyone knows this feelings to an extent. Think of it from a very basic level: the way you act at work is normally different from how you act at home. That is Starr, but much more intense. These problems that Starr goes through as a consequence of being a witness to the shooting felt all too real and got me a little bit emotional by how Stenberg portrayed Starr's character. 

With that being said, I wasn't a fan with something that she did in the story. These are one of the hiccups that left me with a bad taste in my mouth, and while I can't reveal it in this non-spoiler section, it is something that I can say has me wondering what the intentions were for adding that part in. It happens early on in the story, and it just seems to ruin Starr's character for me. I still don't know what it was supposed to add to the dynamic of the plot, or if the result of what Starr did cut out at the last minute. Let me put it this way: If the shooting didn't occur, then what Starr did would have been made into a bigger deal that the way it was dealt in the movie.

The characters who supported the movie like Starr's family was likable yet different unlike any family I've seen portrayed on screen. They had their own set of problems in their dynamic, like having children who didn't have the same pair of parents and starting a family at an early age. I liked how they had that going on, yet they were not shamed for it. It showed that families who go through similar things such as that are not destined to have a toxic life together, but can improve from the mistakes made in the past. 

Starr's friends however came off as more cookie cutter stereotypes that reminded me that this was an adaptation of a young adult novel. You have the friend who always wants to fight people, the friend who is clueless to the racial injustice in the world, and just students in Starr's school that use slang to sound black (even though there is no way to sound black, white, or any other race). It was a little annoying to say the least, as they come off more and more predictable the longer you watch the film. Starr does have a love interest though who breaks out of the stereotype. I ended up really liking him; my expectations on how he would handle Starr's dilemma was far from what really happens and that pleasantly surprised me. 

The character who ends up dying by the police officer was also not so bad. To put it lightly, he is revealed to not be such a perfect person, but I think that's a point that the writer was trying to make. Since this person dies by an officer, it is easy to vilify the victim due to his history rather than focus on the fact that he was the one killed and not the officer. Trust me when I say that what he portrays in the film wasn't always the smartest things to do, but the movie is trying to tell us that that alone isn't deserving of death. 

The movie also depicts how the way people fight for a cause can also show them to be more of the villains of their own cause than the people who are actually fighting against them. It shows how causing physical damage to the community (example- smashing car windows, yelling in people's faces) isn't the best way to go about getting what you want. A final thing that I was surprised that the film even brought up with the officer's point of view on things when interrogating someone in general and why being defensive to them could put someone in more danger, and why they need to ask you a lot of questions before letting you go. I see that the story was giving two sides of the spectrum and it's absolutely important to hear from both sides. 

Which leads me to another hiccup.

A lot of these scenes, while necessary, came off a little forced. It was like I was hearing a public service announcement on why black people were discriminated or how you should act when you're pulled over. Each of these scenes were explained very carefully and resonated with me. I don't want to sound like I think it's wrong to teach your viewing audience about these things, but I must admit it was a little amusing how it suddenly jumped from the film to, "remember that you must always do this and that." It's like when you're watching a television show, and a character goes, "I could never leave home without my Dasani water. It is the best water that you could ever carry with you," doesn't it take you a little out of the story? 

Nevertheless, this doesn't totally destroy the message that the movie. At least with this issue, I totally get why it had to be done. Sometimes people need to be reminded of the gravity of how serious racism is and how alive is still is on this Earth. I think this is a nice movie to watch if you want to learn about the social issues still roaming in our society, why it happens, how it happens, and what we could do about it. Since this was adapted from a young adult novel, there's not much to worry about as far as anything sexual or violence. 

Aside from the actual shooting that propels the story, there's nothing extremely bloody. There are a couple of swear words here and there, including the N word that you could hear playing in the background during one of the scenes but that's mostly in the beginning of the movie. This is a movie best seen with anybody who is emotionally mature enough to handle issues like this, because it could drive you to discuss these sort of issues and whether or not you agree with the actions that took place in the story. I wouldn't watch it again, but I could see this being played yearly for other people- like a teacher plays it in class to discuss racism and the like. 

I give 'The Hate U Give' a 4 out of 5 stars.

Youtube Link Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evm5pIY9iys

SPOILERS AHEAD!!!
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I hope their father repeated his lesson to baby Sekani. Does he think the baby will remember what to do when he's pulled over? (I'm like half joking here, I'm sure he repeated it to Sekani at some point)

My mom really didn't care for the public displays of affection between the mother and father. Every time it happened (which was only like two times) she sounded so disgusted. It was funny.

Some people may think that it's not that hard to just be yourself in both your neighborhood and at school, but as a afro Latina who lives in a dangerous neighborhood and went to private schools, I can say that it is difficult. You feel like you need to be someone else, more proper. At the same time, no matter how proper you are, you don't feel like you fit it.

I can tell that this came from a young adult novel. Yes, people can appropriate culture, but I don't think it's always this noticeable with how these kids are talking. Maybe I'm just ignorant that way.

Why does every movie need a romantic interest? And better yet, her boyfriend is white. So I'm guessing now that he's not going to understand what she is going through and it's going to be too much for him, so he'll leave her. Only to realize that he was wrong and he'll come running back saying that he'll help with her activism against racism.

Are girls that obvious with their disdain for people? Those two girls glare straight at Starr as she's kissing Chris. She's just darker skinned, she's not a monster!

Starr reminds me a lot of myself, how out of place she feels at the party. It's like you should be at home because you're around your people, but you're not.

I should listen to more Tupac, he does have some powerful messages in his songs.

What happened to Natasha? Did she become a teen mom? That's the vibe I'm getting.

Is Khalil going to throw himself on Starr? Is this the route the story is taking to not make him feel like a complete victim when he dies?

Starr, you have a boyfriend! How are you going to admit that after you kissed Khalil? This made me like Starr way less than I did starting in. If this scene is revealed to Chris, I feel like that would just make things more muddled in the whole story.

I know that some people don't cooperate easily with police, but in this day and age, if you're an African American people especially, why would you argue with the police so much? This is a universe where the killing of innocent black people is a normalized weekly occurrence. What are you doing, Khalil?

I liked how Starr's actress reacted to the shooting. It didn't feel forced or underwhelming, it's actually how anyone would react. It made me a bit emotional.

Was it necessary for the uncle to bring up that he cared for Starr while the father was in jail? It's not very helpful to the situation at hand, but I have a feeling that it was addressed better in the book than how it was suddenly brought up in the movie.

I forgot Khalil's grandmother had cancer. This makes things even sadder, but hey, life is like that.

I can't say that I know how Starr feels when it comes to wanting to stay hidden so her friends at school don't pity her, but I can say that I would probably want the same thing for myself- to not have all the attention on me. It's sad because I know why I wouldn't want to. It's not so much than I think people would pity me, but more so the issue that comes up later on in this film- that you'll be targeted.

I feel bad for Chris now. I think he's going down the genuinely wants to help Starr out route and Starr is totally blowing him off. She's coming off like a insensitive girlfriend. I know that sounds awful considering what she goes through, but remember she cheated on Chris. If Khalil didn't die, that would've been made a bigger deal and probably the nail in the coffin that makes Starr and Chris break up.

When Starr's friend say, "Hey Daddy!" to King, I thought that wasn't her daddy, but her daddy. You know what I'm talking about.

Okay, this fried chicken joke confuses me. I know why it's offensive and I also know why Hailey said it because the movie briefly shows them eating chicken earlier. On that note, was this to show how Hailey has racist tendencies or how Starr is easily offended? Because they're both justified in their actions, and if you think about it, Starr might be more in the wrong because she got angry at Hailey for making the joke. Hear me out, if I just had chicken with my friends and then one of them made a joke about it, I'd connect the two and realize that they're not playing on racial stereotypes. Then again, Starr just lost a close friend so her mind was fuzzy. Ultimately, I think the part just threw me for a loop.

Also, this is one of the many moments where Starr and Hailey will have these repeated stand offs like this: Hailey: *says racist comment* Starr: *whips her head at her angrily* ...what? This occurs at least three times.

I see what the story is saying: The policeman shooting Khalil was undoubtably wrong and the justice system is failing Khalil, yet the way that his supporters protest for his justice comes off unorganized and violent. Of course people are angry, but from the looks of it, their rallying won't do any good if they look like they'd rather fight people for what they want rather than peacefully protest. I know that even peaceful protests don't get heard sometimes, but I understand what the movie is trying to promote.

Now this other scene confused me even more, when one of King's goons fatally shot Natasha. Who the hell kills a child for playing in the street, in the daytime? I wouldn't argue that children get killed for stupid reasons, it happens a lot unfortunately. However, the way Starr talks about it seems so forced. "Yeah, my friend Natasha and I were playing in the street and someone shot her dead because we wouldn't get out of the way." Like, the guy didn't just ask them to move at first? That's such an extreme move.

That blurred vision in the interview is not helping Starr. I would know right away, if she was my friend, that that was her.

I'm betting that the father dies while protecting his family but he'll be framed as the bad guy.

Overkill with forcing the dad against the window so his family can see him getting arrested, huh? I know, I know, things like this happen...

I hate to see Sekani cry...

Why is the dad so angry with the kids? He's placing his anger on the wrong people.

Oh, that's why he was upset. I still like the dad...

Okay, I get white kids saying slang to sound cool and being ignorant to racial injustice. However, white girls playing basketball games is going too far! I know not one white girl who plays basketball games!

"Police lives matter" The way Hailey says her lines sounds so forced, like she's saying the typical ignorant lines that people say. Maybe that's the point...

I like the other friend; she hasn't spoken a lot but she doesn't seem to be like Hailey. I hope she gets a big moment where she stands up for Starr.

"He kissed me a second time that night" Starr, if Chris hears that he'll break up with you. If I were Chris, I'd do it regardless of the events that occurred. Again, if Khalil didn't die that kiss would have been brought up and Starr would have lost Chris.

Oh my God, Starr is wearing sneakers to the prom. What a social problem; we must stare at her obviously so we reveal our disdain!

(Kind of the quote from the movie) Chris: I see you, Starr/Starr: You only see my skin color/Chris: I see you.../ Chris' repeat of his statement wouldn't make me feel better, it would just make me think he didn't know what else to say and is convincing me that what he said makes sense.

Hey, I have a family member named Chris. It's not just a white name!

The father will die or the brother will. More likely the brother in my opinion.

It's nice for the uncle to explain to Starr why the police have to inspect people pulled over, their intentions for asking certain questions. It gives the audience a chance to realize that with good cops, they're not trying to invade your space, but rather protect yourself or the people in your car. With good cops, which leads me to saying how it's also interesting for the movie to show how even black people could be against their own race while being blind of it like the uncle was. I like this scene a lot.

People were laughing at the scene where Starr is threatening Hailey with the hairbrush. I must admit, it did come off more funny than it was intending to be.

I am so impressed with how they handled Seven's mother. It took me until Starr told her "thank you" that I realized that her yelling at her kids to leave the house was because she wanted to protect them from King. That's an amazing mother right there. Also, the way they cut the scene off before we see what King does to the mom is so chilling to me. Great work.

Are the drivers really King's goons who will try to kill Starr and Seven? I got a bad feeling about this.

Oh come on, are they really going to kill Sekani? No one wants to see a child die, but I don't know...maybe it would make this movie more impactful if Sekani is killed. It shows how we corrupt our children with racist and gun violence and such an early age. A tragedy that could never be restored- oh, they're not going to kill him. Good.

I was expecting Seven's mother to have bruises on her face or something at the graduation.

So...does Chris just never find out about Starr's kiss with Khalil? Does he know that if Khalil was still alive Starr probably would have cheated on him more? Will there be a sequel to explain this? Probably not. I'm angry.

There were a lot more Harry Potter references in this than I expected.

Venom (2018)

When Eddie Brock acquires the powers of a symbiote, he will have to release his alter-ego "Venom" to save his life (Source- Imdb.com)

Trailer- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9Mv98Gr5pY

Rating- PG-13
Genre- thriller/science fiction
Warnings- disturbing imagery/swearing

I'm not Marvel fanatic as much as the next guy, but I've always been fascinated by Venom.

This dark version of Spider man enthralled me when I was first introduced to him in 'Spider Man 3' (2007), at least, that's what I used to think it was: just a darker version of Spider man. This creature is so much more than that, as it says in its origin story that Venom is actually a sentient alien symbiote that has a liquid-like form and needs a host in order to survive on Earth.

According to Venom's wikipedia, its first appearance was made when it used Spider man as its host in The Amazing Spider-Man #258 in 1984. It later went on to merge with other hosts, the most notable being journalist Eddie Brock, who is the star of this latest adaptation. I'm going to focus not so much on the original Venom and Brock, and just critic the movie on its own.

Say this is a clean slate, that this is the first ever anyone has ever heard of Venom, how does it hold up? Was this movie something I could really get attached to, or was it better to split and find a better movie that night?

This film centers on Brock, who is still a hard hitting journalist in this version, as he sets out to investigate a scandal involving a powerful CEO named Carlton Drake that lands him into hot water by becoming the host of a symbiote known as Venom. Turns out the pair have a genuine connection to one another, and as the story progresses you see how this human and symbiote can work together to play by their own rules.

The first thing I want to point out is how fast this film felt to me. It's said to be 2 hours and 20 minutes long, but it felt more like an hour, and I find that to be due to two factors. One being that I enjoyed it a ton, it was an interesting story from start to finish. Albiet, the beginning was a little dragging, but once Venom gets into the picture it's so much fun and you may find yourself laughing a lot. I didn't expect to laugh because hey, an alien possessing your body doesn't sound like a laugh riot to me, but the dialogue between Brock and Venom is very quick and sassy. It's as if you're watching two friends bicker, it's hilarious to listen in on it.

The second reason for why I think the movie went so quick is because the plot points went by too fast. The more I think about it, things just seemed to happy abruptly with no real rhyme or reason. I think the beginning and middle part was good as far as taking its time to build things up, but the last 20 minutes or so, the characters' personalities just seemed to shift slightly.

One example I'll use is Venom, he's an alien with the purpose to use humans for his own selfish desires. When he forms an emotional bond with Brock, I can't really tell where that comes from. Don't think I assumed this happened either, there are a couple of scenes that clearly state that Brock and Venom felt like they got closer over time and are sincerely disheartened by not having the other in their life.

To argue against my own opinion, it could be because in order to survive a human and a symboite must be compatible with one another and when you have someone inside you 24/7, you're bound to gain some attachment to them.

Speaking of attachment, I found it hard as a viewer to feel sympathy for Brock despite him being the main character. The way that he goes about things, particularly in the beginning of the movie, isn't so admirable. In fact, they're very impulsive without any regard for other people's feelings. Yet Tony Stark was the same way. So was Dr. Stephen Strange, and I ended up liking both of them in the end. I suppose that it makes the story more exciting if the main character isn't the model of perfect behavior. Maybe with time, I'll warm up to Brock's character.

I think the conflict was done well. It may be a little predictable, but I'll let it slide because it makes sense to Brock's character to want to research into a big scandal. The way the side and minor characters are incorporated into the story is well done too. There were some moments where I was shocked that the movie would go down that route, but that's a good thing because they weren't afraid to diverge into dark material.

I noticed how the relationship between Brock and side character Anne Weying (Michelle Williams) was really reaching for a romantic storyline. When you watch the movie, you may think it's no problem, but I just was sick of it being pushed onto me.

It kind of sends a toxic message to people about how you could keep pushing something to happen and eventually your romantic interest will come around to you. To argue against that, if we're being realistic, a lot of people do this and not everyone knows how to properly pursue a romantic interest. So, I'm hoping that the sequel will address this and that this sort of behavior isn't healthy.

I'm not sure how to feel about the main villain of the story. On one hand, I liked the fact that he didn't look like a typical badass with bulging muscles and that obvious demeanor that is so obvious to the audience that he's the bad guy, but on the other hand I find him a little forgettable. I feel like in a month, when people are raving over Venom still, they'll forget about the villain and his contribution to the story.

The fight scenes were incredibly fun to watch and the design of Venom was fantastic; the symbiote looks frightening and looked like it was really sticking onto its hosts. This film is a little more graphic than previous Marvel movies with gruesome death scenes that could send a chill down your spine or induce serious nightmares. I just wish they went even further with it. For a PG-13 movie, I think they pushed some boundaries, but I know for sure that the writers could have gone even further with it.

There is also moments where certain characters use swear words that you would chastise a child for for using, so if you intend on seeing this with a child then be aware that there will be curse words and not the simple words like hell, damn, or shit. If you're not comfortable with that, then reconsider watching with the children. This is best suited for older family members or with friends. You could watch it alone, but I think this is the type of film that you'd want to watch with other people to share in the enjoyment.

Some critics have deemed this movie to be poorly made while others find it to be well done; I'm here to say that regardless of what you think of it after watching, Venom was a fun ride. Whether you joke about how terrible it is or how cool it is, I believe that it will be a memorable film that people will be excited to see the sequel for.

The beginning and ending weren't my favorite parts and some decisions made in the script are a little questionable, but the fighting was stellar, the comedy had the theater cracking up a lot, and as long as I had a good time, I think it's deserves some credit.

I give Venom a 3 out of 5 stars.

(Note: I'm practicing my video skills. Go check out my brief video on Venom at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQf7QRbHLvI. Enjoy and subscribe!)

SPOILERS AHEAD!!!
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Anne's actress looks familiar, where is she from? Speaking of which, Brock's actor looks familiar too. Where was he from?

The scene with the little girl getting the pin from Carlton Drake was really cute, but since he's going to be a villain it kind of dampens it.

Both Drake and Brock's boss said, "Have a nice life." Is that phrase like...a thing? Are they working together?

I'm not really a fan of Brock right now. How can I feel bad for someone who sneaked into his fiancé's emails and deliberately and carelessly pushed someone to admit to a scandal? If this movie is trying to make me feel bad for him, it's not working.

Is it just me or is Hardy (the actor) trying too hard to make Brock sound drunk?

I too would wonder how my ex fiancé's cat is doing.

What was Brock's motivation to take Dora Skirth's advice? All he did after meeting with her was see his ex and see that someone better is dating her. Maybe it's to feel better about himself?

Brock, Dora told you not to touch anything! I know that was your friend, but if that were me, I would've left them there to get the story. Everyone for themselves when it's a matter of life or death.

Just hearing Venom say food makes me happy. I love the voice.

Poor lobsters...

I like Anne's new boyfriend, he isn't as much of a jerk as I thought he would be. Thank goodness, I hate that trope. It forces you to side with the main character.

That's sad that the symbiote is going to control the little girl, but glad to see the writers aren't holding back any punches.

I did not expect Dora to die. I thought she'd be Brock's new love interest or maybe a villain with the symbiote inside of her who will be saved. I'm going to miss her.

Don't let that sweet Latino guy die! Oh, thank goodness he'll be okay.

I think everyone's favorite part in this movie- or most memorable- will be when Venom tells Brock to jump and Brock uses the elevator instead, with Venom calling him a...I'm not quite comfortable saying it on my blog so here's a hint: calling him a cat. It's way funnier when you see it.

I am so freaking happy they made Anne scream at the sight of Venom. I've seen too many movies where something crazy happens and a character reacts very calmly to the situation. Like no, you'd be screaming or at least running away.

After just being informed that Venom is speaking to Brock, I wouldn't really accept that apology from Brock for getting me fired. Then again, Brock is in a pretty terrible situation, there's no need to bring that up.

Oh no, Brock you may have to reconnect with Venom. You got Drake to worry about with his symbiote.

Is Venom going to connect to Anne or her boyfriend to reach Brock again? No, please don't kill the dog! And he took the dog!

The dog's name is Gemini. What a cutie!

Hold up, why when Venom is controlling Anne she got to have this super curvy body? Is that really necessary to show that she has boobs and ass? It would've been more awesome if she looked like how Brock looks when he has Venom, that way the audience has a bit more suspense on who is behind the symbiote.

That kiss scene was intense. You even had Brock moaning a lot to it too, I mean...wow. That was the most sexual make out scene I've seen in any Marvel movie (unless I'm forgetting a one big one, and I feel like I am). Like...they do know Rule 34 exists, right? People are going to sexualize the hell out of female curvy Venom and that kiss scene. They might just be asking for it, since it will certainly make the movie more memorable.

If you're not compatible with a symbiote, you die, so how come Anne was just fine after Venom left her body? The point this movie is trying to make is that Venom and Brock are compatible; I thought that was just a one human thing. Now it can be more than one? Also, did the dog die after Venom left him? Did the blonde girl die?

Now I'm thinking what the heck would make Venom a loser on his own planet. It will probably be explained in the sequel.

(Probably not the accurate quote but...) "Tell me the real reason you came back" "You"
Okay, that was sending some real romantic vibes! Where did this come from?

There! Brock said "Have a nice life" to Drake. Why is that such a powerful quote for them? Like I get that Drake said it to Brock, but his boss said that to him to. Plus, I don't know, I feel like there was something stronger that could've been said.

"Venom, no!" They really are best friends now, aren't they? I'd be relieved to have the symbiote off of me.

He's grieving over Venom's death?! Oh my God, this relationship runs deep!

If Venom planned the kiss, then that's even further proof that something romantic is going on between the two (I know there isn't, but the evidence is strong), but if Anne planned the kiss (which I'm more likely to believe) then that's messed up how they just threw that in. And to top it off with Venom saying they'll get her back, that's so wrong! The boyfriend has been nothing but helpful through this entire story, and Anne would find an excuse to cheat on him like that. That's not cute or something to strive for, that's cheating plain and simple. Plus, who the heck would want to reconnect with their ex after they cost them their job, got a symbiote in their body, and could possibly kill you at any moment? That's not a moment to be like, "Maybe things could still work out."

In addition to that, why does every superhero (or anti hero in this case) needs a romantic interest? There was a trailer for Aquaman that clearly shows a romantic interest. Why? Does everything need to include romance to get the story going? Well sure it does, because you can't be a superhero or anti hero without having a romantic interest. There goes my dreams of saving the world...

Stan Lee! I was almost worried you'd never show up!

I bet that child in the begging who got the pin from Drake is feeling really good about herself now. Might be getting teased at school for being put on a pedestal by an evil man. She just wanted her question answered, poor thing.

If I didn't watch that Youtube Video Death Battle of Carnage versus Lucy from Elfien Lied, I would've been so lost on who that redhead guy was in the after credits scene. He's going to be something else in the future...