“Joker: Folie à Deux” … Sinister Smiles & Deadly Frowns

Written By: Trav ... Your Movie Critic - Oct• 04•24

Joker

Film Synopsis of “Joker: Folie à Deux “→ After murdering Murray Franklin live on television, Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) is incarcerated in Arkham State Hospital, where he meets Harleen “Lee” Quinzel (Lady Gaga). The two fall madly in love and experience musical madness through their shared delusions, while Fleck’s followers start a movement to free him from Arkham!

 

Picsart 23 12 23 23 04 59 945 min

 

The Joker Should Be Burned with A Fire Poker …

Picsart 24 10 02 16 54 18 414 minIn the midst of the film, there’s a pivotal moment where Lee utters to Arthur in a dream, “let’s give the people what they want.” However, to the dismay of many, the highly anticipated sequel, Joker 2, failed to meet the lofty expectations. Instead of an enthralling adventure or action-packed sequel, it took an unforeseen turn and unfolded as more of a musical. The disappointment was palpable among those who had eagerly awaited the film’s release. It seemed as though the sentiment resonated universally – how could a film centered around a captivating villain like The Joker deviate into a musical? Speculation arose, with some attributing the unexpected shift to Lady Gaga’s potential influence, given her role as a singer. 

 

Yet Another Musical Number

Picsart 24 10 02 16 57 47 614 minThe film was marked by an abundance of singing and a scarcity of dialogue, leaving many feelings disheartened. Despite the disappointment, I remained in my seat, eager to witness the culmination of the film I had been eagerly anticipating. I will admit I enjoyed some of the musical numbers, but to sit there and watch Arthur’s dreams be musical numbers; his going to singing classes to help with his anxiety; and then to have the overall film be a musical and have the lines be singing to us and there is NO DC Movie OR character even that has ever in the history of films being made that I can recall ever becoming or even transitioning into a musical! Absurd! 

 

Harleen “Lee Quinzel

Picsart 24 10 02 17 00 35 985 minWhy didn’t they explore the storyline of the character as a doctor who falls in love with the Joker while being locked up in the Asylum? It worked well in Suicide Squad, so it would have been interesting to see it continued. The various interpretations of the Joker character can be unsettling, especially considering the iconic portrayal by Jack Nicholson, before Harley Quinn even existed. I must say, Lady Gaga’s portrayal of the antagonist was impressive. Her performance was brilliant in the film. However, it’s disappointing that the film we had been anticipating turned into a musical and didn’t meet our box office expectations.

 

Arthur Fleck’s Judgement

Picsart 24 10 02 16 56 32 654 minThis entire sequel was based on Fleck being on trial for all the brutal murders that he violently committed in the first film and there were no killings done at all in this film. I know that I am ruining the film by divulging little pieces of information in this review for you and I am NEVER one to divulge information or give spoilers, but like I always say & I stick by it: if it was given in the trailers or I personally feel that it needs to be said because it is out there (and the horrible reviews of this film is DEFIENTELY out there), I will give some insight.

 

It’s A Joke That’s Finally Closed Out …

Picsart 24 10 02 16 55 21 406 minThe way that the film ended was even horrible. I am sorry to even say or write this, but the film never should have even been made! Millions of people were very disappointed, and they had every right to be. This film will not be getting half of the funds back that they poured into it to make it a huge success and that is the sad part about it.

“White Bird” … Eagles Fly But Young Vibrant Children Can Change & Soar!

Written By: Trav ... Your Movie Critic - Oct• 04•24

White BirdFilm Synopsis of “White Bird“→ A prequel and sequel to the 2017 film “Wonder.” Struggling to fit in at his new school after being expelled for his treatment of Auggie Pullman, Julian (Orlando Schwerdt) is visited by his grandmother (Helen Mirren) & is transformed by the story of her attempts to escape the Nazi-occupied France during World War II.

“The Substance” … When She Consumes The Green …Is She The Youthful Queen Who Wants to be Seen?

Written By: Trav ... Your Movie Critic - Sep• 20•24

SubstanceFilm Synopsis of “The Substance“→ A fading celebrity, Elisabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore) decides to use a black-market drug; a cell-replicating substance that temporarily creates a younger, better version of herself! Hey, now …what’s so wrong with that … unless …

 

The Substance

 

What Is “The Substance” …and Is It for You?

Picsart 24 09 11 10 55 44 320 minIt is a common desire to want to remain youthful. While aging is a natural part of life, there are ways to slow it down through healthy lifestyle changes. However, it’s important to be cautious about extreme measures, such as certain cosmetic procedures, which may have irreversible consequences. Understandably, everyone would choose to feel and look desirable, but it’s crucial to consider the potential risks and consequences before pursuing drastic measures. But, to purchase a substance on the black market that someone gives to you with no knowledge of it or no questions asked. I say NO! New drugs are being approved by the FDA every day. If you can’t wait – live with the consequences of your own actions!

 

Elisabeth Sparkle & The Substance

Picsart 24 09 11 10 54 25 263 minIt was incredibly gratifying to witness Demi Moore’s return to the grandeur of the Silver Screen after an extended absence. However, her notable presence in the film was curtailed by the harrowing repercussions of her decision to partake in a substance, driven by her desire to reclaim a more youthful and enhanced version of herself. I refrain from divulging further details of her ordeal, yet it is evident that she had lost her luster in the realm of Hollywood and was willing to go to extreme lengths to recapture it, hence the movie’s title. The ramifications of her choices were indeed substantial. Similarly, Elisabeth’s quest for eternal youth and beauty was undeniably influenced by her own personal experiences.

 

Pump It Up!

Picsart 24 09 11 10 56 40 833 minThe irony is that simply exercising, eating right, and taking daily vitamins can keep you in good physical and mental shape, and help you look and feel youthful. While it won’t halt the aging process, it can prevent your body from wasting away. Elisabeth, who was running an exercise program for young women, found herself in a situation where she turned to a black-market product without considering the message she had been promoting. Many people opt for the easy way out instead of facing and overcoming challenges.

 

 

Closing Remarks on Youth vs. Aging Gracefully

Picsart 24 09 11 10 57 47 929 minThe irony of it all is simply this – age with grace, style, and dignity. Bre proud of your lines, your gray hair, your wrinkles. You’ve earned them from the years of hard work you have managed to put in to work to provide for yourself, your family, you made it, your survived. You may not see it as a reward, but it is. Ladies: Put make up on, hide them, etc. It does not matter what anyone thinks except for YOU! If YOU are not pleased with anybody modifications you have – then you can change them, but please I IMPLORE YOU TO DO IT THE RIGHT WAY and take no shortcuts like Elisbeth did.

To everyone:

Your body is your temple, and you should always treat it as if it’s another version of yourself because truly it is. No one knows yourself better than whom? Yourself! That’s all. 

“Speak No Evil” … Hear Nothing & See Menacing Manipulations!

Written By: Trav ... Your Movie Critic - Sep• 13•24

Speak No EvilFilm Synopsis of Speak No Evil“→ The Dalton Family (Mackenzie Davis, Scoot McNairy, & Alix West Lefler) is invited to spend a whole weekend in a lonely home in the countryside, but as the weekend progresses, they realize that a dark side lies within the family (James McAvoy & Aisling Franciosi) who invited them.

 

Speak No Evil

 

With No Tongues …Thou Cannot Divulge!

Picsart 24 09 07 01 48 46 668 minI was impressed by James McAvoy and Aisling Franciosi’s performances in the 2022 remake. They portrayed a dynamic duo, and it was clear from the start that they were the main antagonists in the film. Apart from their on-screen chemistry, I was intrigued by the symbolism in the movie, particularly the concept of “Hear No Evil, See No Evil, Speak No Evil.” These phrases carry a lot of meaning, especially when it comes to the power of words. I believe that our tongues are incredibly powerful tools, capable of causing harm through lies and deceit, bringing about positive change through speaking the truth. It’s a choice we all have to make.

 

Ciara & Paddy

Picsart 24 09 07 01 50 23 628 minThe characters of Speak No Evil, Ciara and Paddy who acted out of sheer greed, added another layer of complexity to this storyline. As the film progressed on, it became quite clear on how Ant lost his ability speak and communicate, but he still found a way to communicate with Agnes to let her know what was going on to try to save her and her parents and not let what happened to him happen to her or to them because of Paddy and Ciara and that takes not only an extreme about of bravery, but also courage and sacrifice. Sometimes, it takes children to show us how strong and resilient they can be so us adults can be also.

 

 

We Had a Great Time! Thank You!!

Picsart 24 09 07 01 54 27 668 minWhen Louise & Ben finally discovered what was really going on with Ciara and Paddy on that farm thanks to a special someone …they decided to act accordingly and not let on that they knew, but come now, let’s really be realistic here. Since when do toxic & absolutely psychological people act rational and sane. They are the ones who come up with the most devious and genius plans while acting deranged simultaneously! That is something that I don’t that that I will even begin to understand about unstable individuals! How they can have mental issues, yet be so intelligent to develop masterminded plots, etc.?

 

Speak No Evil

Picsart 24 09 07 01 52 02 919 minThe film was an absolute delight, impressively executed and thoroughly enjoyable. While it had its strengths, it also had room for improvement. Nonetheless, it’s definitely worth a watch at least once. James McAvoy’s performance was nothing short of dynamic and truly captivating. Personally, I found it engaging enough to consider watching it for a second time. It’s important to note that while it didn’t scare me like a typical horror film, others might have a different experience. Despite the misleading trailers, the film didn’t quite fit into the horror genre as I had initially expected.

“The Killer’s Game” …Ordering Brutal Hits Comes In Bits & Bits!

Written By: Trav ... Your Movie Critic - Sep• 13•24

Killer's GameFilm Synopsis of “The Killer’s Game“→ A veteran assassin named Joe Flood (Dave Bautista) is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness and authorizes a kill on himself! After ordering the kill, an army of former colleagues & a new piece of information comes to light. Insanity ensues.

 

Killer's Game

 

The Killer’s Game …in 60 Seconds!

The Killer's GameWhen Joe Flood is tasked with a hit or miss mission …do you think that he misses or strikes out his targets? This is NO game for Mr. Flood. Joe Flood. He floods up them bullets shoots them rounds in his potential bad guys in less than 60 seconds and walks away and does not even have time to play! As soon as the move began, he wiped out an entire Opera house of his targets in less than 60 seconds. How many action movies have you watched where almost an entire building of bad guys was killed in less than 60 seconds? That set the tone right there for this film!

 

 

Be Prepared for Violence & An overload of Gore!

Picsart 24 09 08 13 57 43 175 minI am not advocating violence nor do I personally get any type of enjoyment from watching films like this on any level, but although the bad individuals do need to get punished, killing is never the resolution to anything, but what we all need to understand is that movies are just that – movies and are made for enjoyment, while some see it that way and others think they go overboard. Everyone is entitled to their own perspective and then there are some films that are based on true events where violence is at the center of it all and those are the films that are truly heart-breaking.

 

Maize Arnaud

Picsart 24 09 08 13 56 57 991 minThere was only one thing that Joe knew and was incredibly passionate about – his work. Despite his mentor’s advice to find something other than killing to bring him peace and self-fulfillment, he declined until he experienced something that changed his life forever. Enter the graceful ballerina, Maize. She awakened feelings and emotions inside Joe Flood that he never knew existed! As a result, he started to smile more, live with a more positive outlook, and truly experience life, all because of her. It’s truly incredible to unexpectedly find someone who brings you the fulfillment you never knew you needed.

 

Life Brings the Killer’s Game or The Blame Game

Picsart 24 09 08 13 58 34 204 min…and with that, I say that life always brings us these curveballs that we do not expect or see coming and its always up to us to decide how we will hit these balls that are thrown to us that come way out of left field like with Joe & Maizie. How do you think they handled them? After you watch the film, do you think you would have handled the situation as Joe did? As Maizie? You can either blame yourself for the path you took or did not take or take action and do what you want to do and create your own destiny or simply kill your dreams and never live and be who you want to be! The choice is yours! You decide …

“The Front Room” … When She’s in The Treacherous Back Bedroom!

Written By: Trav ... Your Movie Critic - Sep• 06•24

The Front RoomFilm Synopsis of “The Front Room“→ It tells the story of a newly pregnant couple (Brandy Norwood & Andrew Burnap) who are forced to take in an ailing, estranged step-grandmother (Kathryn Hunter).

 

 

 

 

Picsart 23 12 23 23 03 40 059 min

The Front Room…

LoveCollage 20240901 233850747 minThe room’s prominent placement at the front of the house made the film’s title clear to me. While the movie didn’t captivate me as much as I’d hoped, it was a pleasure to see Brandy on the big screen again. However, while she delivered a solid performance, it wasn’t enough to carry the entire film. I wouldn’t strongly recommend it, but it could serve as background entertainment if you’re looking for something low-key.

 

 

Now Let’s Give That Baby a Proper Family Name, Shall We?

LoveCollage 20240901 233910495 minSolange was known for her assertiveness and strong desire to control every situation. She firmly believed that she was acting in the best interest of both Belinda and Norman. However, when Belinda and Norman revealed the name, they had chosen for their baby girl, Solange responded with a racist remark that was not only hurtful to the expectant parents, but also to the unborn child. Her comments were not just offensive, but also completely unwarranted, as she had no authority to intervene in this deeply personal matter.

 

 

 

The Demise of The Front Room

LoveCollage 20240901 233810390 minAs the film progresses onward, it is very evident that Solange’s goal while living with Norman and Belinda is to make their lives a living hell – when it was supposed to be the other way around when the movie actually began from the generous offer she blindly threw in their faces where Norman knew it was a bad idea and he tried to convince his wife of that, but she saw something else and not the bigger overall picture, but once Solange’s wrath came out, she quickly wanted to revert & backtrack, but by then it was too late. The choices we make come with consequences and Belinda had to live with hers day in and day out!

 

 

A New Chapter of Life …or so We Thought

LoveCollage 20240901 233735783 minHave you all figured out yet if Solange cracks the bucket? Does she die? Does she live on as an evil entity to taunt her stepson and his wife? The movie gives so many flashbacks and fake analyses hat it’s very hard to decipher what is a fantasy and what actually is reality, but one thing is for sure – there is a brighter future ahead. But, for whom? I’ll never tell …

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