The Covenant is Guy Richie’s new special forces film set in 2018. The movie follows John Kinley (Jake Gyllenhaal), the sergeant of a group tasked with finding explosives made by the Taliban. After an incident occurred they were forced to hire a new interpreter to accompany them as they move through Afghanistan. John quickly finds out that his new interpreter Ahmed (Dar Salim) is more difficult to control than normal however, Ahmed demonstrates his strong instincts early along with his ability to hold his own. 

After a couple of missions, one ends up going horribly wrong. Ahmed and John end up on the run from the Taliban. John is seriously injured, so Ahmed has his work cut out for him as he has to ensure he and John survive. This is when the bond between the two becomes deeper as face death every day. 

Interpretation 

I felt as though this new guy Ritchie’s films are phenomenal. The score in particular stood out to me as it brought soul to the actions in the movie. The story demonstrates the unbreakable will of a man. The extremely harsh conditions in which humans can survive, and the physical limitations that we can break through. Fredrick Nietzsche said, “ He who has a strong enough why can bear almost any how.” That’s what The covenant demonstrates. 

The meaning of covenant is an agreement or a bond which refers to John and Ahmed’s relationship. Those in the military are thrown into life-threatening situations and must rely on the man or woman beside them. Every soldier has a duty to have the back of whoever they stand behind and that is the covenant  

The Covenant (2022)

8

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2020’s Extraction is an exciting thriller that demonstrates Chris Hemsworth’s range beyond his legendary portrayal of Thor in the MCU. Sam Hargrave, a former stunt coordinator who has an amazing directing debut. The movie is based on a comic novel written by Joe Russo, co-director of “Avengers: Endgame.” Hemsworth portrays Tyler Rake, the main protagonist, a courageous mercenary hired to set out on a dangerous voyage to rescue the kidnapped son of an international crime lord.

Extraction is an enjoyable watch because to its nonstop and dramatic action sequences and Hemsworth’s devoted performance. Director Sam Hargrave, who does stunts himself, provides a special viewpoint to the picture and makes sure that the action sequences are carried out expertly and creatively. Particularly remarkable are the stunt coordination and choreography, which up the intensity level and provide a visceral viewing experience.

Interpretation

Although Extraction excels in the action department, some critics have noted that the focus may not be as much on the characters and plot. Some characters can seem undeveloped or shallow because the rescue effort takes up most of the story. The whole experience has also been criticized for being detracted by several logical story shortcuts. However, the film’s quick pacing and action-packed set pieces make up for these flaws, making it a thrilling and entertaining viewing for action movie fanatics.

Extraction is an exciting action movie demonstrating Chris Hemsworth’s abilities outside his superhero character. The film has thrilling action sequences that keep spectators on the edge of their seats due to Sam Hargrave’s experience as a stuntman-turned-director. The film’s unrelenting speed and Hemsworth’s captivating performance make it a pleasant and enjoyable viewing for lovers of extreme action films, even when the character development and story logic may not be as solid.

Extraction (2020)

7

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The science fiction film “I, Robot” from 2004 is set in Chicago in the year 2035. There are several futuristic skyscrapers in the city, including the highest one, which is owned by US Robotics. The film’s main focus is the discovery of the top robot designer of U.S. Robotics dead in the building’s foyer. Del Spooner (Will Smith), the investigator in charge of this particular investigation believes that the death could have been brought on by a robot, which goes against the three rules of robotics that are designed to protect robots from hurting people. 

Despite exploring these complex themes, some reviewers thought the film’s handling of the subject was ultimately unremarkable. According to one IMDb critic, despite its call for tolerance, which was handled better in “Bicentennial Man,” “I, Robot” fails to innovate in the robots-on-the-prowl genre. Others, however, commended the film’s skill in juggling action and suspense with its thematic material. In a Roger Ebert review, the film was described as “less ambitious than ‘Blade Runner’ but more coherent than ‘Artificial Intelligence: A.I.’”.

Interpretation 

The idea of technology advancing to the point that it can compete with human talents is explored in the film. The robots in the film are portrayed as being extremely clever and capable of doing difficult jobs, but they are also shown to have the potential to be harmful if not programmed and managed correctly. This raises concerns about the hazards of leaning too heavily on technology as well as the morality of developing machines that may eventually replace human labour.

Overall, “I, Robot” presents a fascinating examination of the potential effects of cutting-edge technology while also providing an enormous amount of tension and action. In my opinion, I look at this film as being one of the ones. It is an older film that is able to project concerns in the future and be accurate since it does parallel what’s going on today with the emergence of AI. I highly recommend rewatching now under this new real-world experience with extremely advanced technology. 

I, Robot (2004)

7.7

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Reminiscence is a 2021 sci-fi thriller film directed by Lisa Joy, starring Hugh Jackman, Rebecca Ferguson, and Thandiwe Newton. Set in a future Miami that has been partially submerged by rising sea levels, the film follows Nick Bannister (Jackman), a private investigator who helps people relive their memories through a technology called “The Reminiscence.” On one particular visit, a mysterious woman named Mae (Ferguson) walks into his office and Nick becomes obsessed with her. After they build a relationship she suddenly disappears leaving Nick to look for her. This leads him down a dangerous path filled with secrets and betrayal.

As Nick delves deeper into Mae’s past, he discovers that she is linked to a powerful businessman named Walter Sylvan (Brett Cullen) and his shady business dealings. With the help of his colleague Watts (Newton), Nick uncovers a web of corruption and deception that threatens to destroy everything he thought he once knew. As he races against time to save Mae and bring the perpetrators to justice, Nick must confront his own memories and confront the harsh reality of a world where the past can be both a comfort and a curse.

Interpretation

Overall, Reminiscence is a gripping and atmospheric film that combines film noir and science fiction elements to create a compelling and thought-provoking story. With stunning visuals, strong performances from its cast, and a haunting score, the film offers a captivating glimpse into a familiar and unsettling future. While it may not be perfect, Reminiscence is definitely worth watching for anyone who enjoys a good mystery with a sci-fi twist.

Reminiscence (2021)

7.9

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The Night Agent is a 10-episode series streaming on Netflix about an American government conspiracy. The story follows an FBI agent who found himself at the right place at the right time, Peter Sutherland (Gabriel Basso) was on a train when he discovered a bomb. His ability to neutralize the threat and drastically reduce the number of casualties caused him to get a promotion. Because of his actions, he became the agent that picks up the phone of an emergency FBI line. A phone that normally never rings until Rose Larkin (Luciane Buchanan)  is on the other end. The both of them find themselves so deep in a conspiracy that it reaches up into the Oval Office. 

Peter is someone who religiously does everything by the book, with hopes of helping him escape the tainted past of his father. While Rose has no problem bending the rules in order for her to survive. They both have to find a way to compromise if they wish to stay alive. 

Interpretation 

The show had a great pace the whole way through as the audience slowly unravels the truth behind what is going on in the White House. The depth of the characters made it hard to assume what would happen next and who you could trust. The viewers had no choice but to become their own detectives throughout Night Agent. The series showed a multitude of thrilling scenes that had me on the edge of my seat. This is a series for those who love conspiracy theories. Also, a show made for the people who loved the Jason Bourne series.  I would definitely recommend The Night Agent as a great short show to watch, especially since it’s already been renewed for another season. 

The Night Agent (2023)

8.3

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It begins with what we think are just the average bank robbers stalking out their next hit. In a small town, we follow Stig (Mark Wahlberg) and Bobby (Denzel Washington) who blow up the diner across the street from the bank and eventually rob it.  Unbeknownst to them, they both are on the right side of the law with Bobby being with the CIA and Stig being a part of the Navy. Both sides doing it to take down drug lord Papi Greco (Edward James Osmos). This all gets complicated after they find way more money in the bank than they were supposed to. They also create new enemies after they learn that the money isn’t Papi Greco’s. With money in the mix, everyone turns on one another leaving Stig and Bobby both out of their organizations as AWOL. The true owner of the money reveals himself as Earl (Bill Paxon) a countryman who interrogates everyone he comes in contact with in search of the money.  It’s unclear if he owns the money or if he was sent to receive it. Also in the mix is a love interest and CIA colleague, Deb (Paula Patton). 

Bobby and Stig develop a bromance as they lose trust in the people around them and realize the ‘Us vs Them’ dynamic. A bond is formed and it’s one that can not be broken by money. 

Interpretation 

This movie’s heart is about sticking it out for the guy beside you. Bobby is known as someone who always knows a guy, yet he has no one who’s truly close to him. And Stig is too blunt and talkative for anyone to like him. They both belonged to their respective organization and yet they were turned on for the money. Bobby already understands that this is just the nature of business, while Stig resists and believes it should be more about the man next to you. This is an understandable take from a military man. With camaraderie being such an important element to any branch of the military. This mentality eventually infects Bobby and allows him to establish a true relationship with somebody. Making it about 2 guns.

2 Guns (2013)

7

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The movie reminded me of what Scorsese said about Marvel films. How they are more like amusement parks than actual cinemas. I think this applies to The Adam Project. I can’t think of what the theme of the movie is. They had a moment with future and past Adam discussing how they treat anger and love; and how they tend to confuse the two. I assume this was their attempt to give the story a deeper meaning beyond the surface level. The antagonist was lacking in all areas in my opinion. She felt distant, made stupid decisions, and wasn’t menacing. She literally kills herself. She had far too many opportunities to kill Adam but waited for him to escape. Then, she decides that she’s willing to kill Adam but kills herself. This would’ve made sense if they gave us a reason why she avoided killing him earlier in the story. The action in the film was excellent and kept me engaged the entire time. But I couldn’t understand why the invisible soldiers kept revealing themselves before they attacked. They likely would’ve captured Adam if he couldn’t see them. The character moments in the movie were heartfelt which is essential for a family movie. Also, the dialogue was quick and captured my attention. The writer also used subtext well in the movie. By subtext, I mean that when the fridge wouldn’t entirely close on the first try and how they both knew to close it made the audience feel like a detective. We put the two together based on the actions of the characters. This kept me feeling involved when watching the movie. I think that the target audience for the movie was well reached and anyone else can find the fun in the watching experience.

The Adam Project (2022)

6.5

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Uncut Gems is a 2019 criminal thriller film that was directed by both Josh and Benny Safdie. Adam Sandler plays the role of Howard Ratner, a jeweller in New York City who is addicted to gambling and makes a series of high-stakes wagers in an attempt to pay off his debts. The film is directed by Todd Phillips.  Howard He purchases an extremely rare black opal with the intention of auctioning it off for a substantial sum. But, things rapidly go out of control as he is put under pressure by his creditors, struggles to maintain healthy connections with his family, and endures a series of unfortunate events.

The level of suspense in the movie steadily rises due to Howard’s increasingly precarious circumstances brought on by his reckless actions and poor choices. It is difficult for him to maintain his personal ties, and he fights a losing battle to keep his company going while also indulging his addiction to gambling. The narrative takes place against the backdrop of the NBA playoffs in 2012, which lends a heightened feeling of both urgency and excitement to the experience of watching the movie.

Interpretation 

As time in the movie passes Howard put more bets on his parlay. Howard as a character has a moral flaw of Greed. Nothing is enough for him, he always wants more. Even when he has enough money to pay off his debts he still opts to get a bigger payout if he can. Howard as a protagonist is definitely well-written but the characters around him lack any depth. Perhaps this is cause we didn’t get to spend a lot of time with the other characters, so they just seemed one-dimensional and static. In order for Howard as a character to change he would have to let go of his want in order to find his need. There is not a single point in this movie where I thought he was going to do that. 

The Safdie brothers and Adam Sandler each shine in their respective roles in the exhilarating and gripping Uncut Gems, which demonstrate their respective abilities. The movie is a wonderful example of how to create suspense and build up tension, and it also features an outstanding supporting cast that includes Kevin Garnett, Idina Menzel, and Lakeith Stanfield, among others. In the end, the movie delves into topics such as addiction, greed, and the perils of putting oneself in dangerous situations for no reason, which makes it an intense and thought-provoking film to watch.

Uncut Gems (2019)

9

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Michael Mann is the director of the crime thriller “Heat,” which was released in 1995. The film tells the narrative of two individuals in Los Angeles who are on opposing sides of the law. The movie contains an amazing cast that includes Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Val Kilmer, and Tom Sizemore. The story follows a crew of highly trained and experienced criminals, commanded by Neal MacAuley (Robert De Niro), as they plan and execute a string of high-stakes robberies around the city. LAPD detective Vincent Hanna (Al Pacino), takes on the case after one of their operations goes astray and culminates in a violent encounter with the police. He then begins a search to bring down MacAuley and his team. 

The film delves deep into the psyches of its characters, presenting them as nuanced characters who face their own challenges and have their own reasons for doing the things they do. Because of the demands of his profession, Hanna, a veteran police officer, is a workaholic who struggles to form meaningful relationships with his wife and stepdaughter. On the other side, MacAuley is a self-disciplined and systematic thief who is plagued by his previous failures and is resolved to retire after making one final score. As the two men chase after one another across the city, they gradually acquire a resentful admiration for one another. This leads to a decisive encounter, which puts their abilities and commitment to the test. 

Interpretation

“Heat” is widely recognized as one of the greatest crime movies ever filmed, because of its brilliant performances, riveting action sequences, and thought-provoking themes. The movie covers hard subjects such as the nature of obsession, the cost of living a life of crime, and the thin border between legality and lawlessness. “Heat” is a must-see for anybody who respects excellent filmmaking as well as fans of the genre because of its high-octane car chases, dramatic shootouts, and sophisticated story twists.

Heat (1995)

8.4

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This movie starts in the thick of it with the company starting to lay off people on an entire floor. The first fire we see is of a man named Eric Dale. Eric is surprised that he was even going to be fired because of his role in the company but it seems that they are coming for everyone in this firing spree. As Eric is leaving he mentions that he’s been working on something. First, he tells Will who comforts him by saying that he no longer has to deal with the company’s business, he’s free now. The second person he tells is Peter. He gives Peter the hard drive that his work is on and before he goes he says “be careful.” Doing all of this naturally caused Peter to be curious as to what Eric had been working on. So that night Peter went through the work and was able to complete it. After doing so he found that the company had been replicating the same graphs of companies within a bubble. I believe it was 5 days out of the last two weeks that they replicated the graph. Eric’s work didn’t stop there, it also predicted that the company would not be profiting for very long. When Peter found this out he immediately got his friend Seth to bring Will in to see Eric’s work. With Will now seeing it two things had to be done: the high-ups need to be notified immediately and they need to find Eric Dale. This is what sets the movie into motion. 

Interpretation

The movie did a great job of illustrating the 2008 recession from the perspective of a large organization finding out before the rest of the world did. After 2008, the world looked at the large corporation as those who were responsible and to blame for the incident while in the movie they want them to know that they’re not alone. A recurring idea in the movie was that those in charge had almost no understanding of the company’s specifics. They made it abundantly clear that they were in the dark mainly because it wasn’t their job to learn the specifics. The movie also showed that the company was willing to let other people lose their money knowing that they were selling something that had no value. They tried to justify it by saying if the person wants to buy then let them buy. This was clearly wrong and it highlights the moral environment. Nothing is more important than money, they don’t care if other people are losing it if they continue to gain it. 

My favourite moment in the movie was Eric talking about the bridge that he made. This was Eric trying to explain to Will that there are more important things than money, which is helping people. Eric created a bridge, with his calculation he was saving people thousands of hours in the car because of where the bridge was and how it was set up. Eric took pride in that what he did allowed people to get back the most valuable thing in the world, time. This point put Dale in a new light. He was different than the people that he would work with by having different priorities. Will was trying to get him to come back to the office where he would just get paid to be there but with this story, he showed that some things are worth more than money. This great moment was ruined when we later saw Eric come back to the office even after how he was treated when fired. But just like he claimed, “he needed the money.” Showing that at the end of the day, it always comes back to money. Like many of the other people in this movie, Eric set aside their principles in the pursuit of money, and the 2008 bubble didn’t help them learn their lesson. 

Margin Call (2011)

6.9

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