Slow-burn ‘Dune’ illustrates imperial machinations
Movie review: Villeneuve’s film is homework more than entertainment. But it’s interesting to see how “Star Wars” was influenced by “Dune.”
‘Blade Runner 2049’ reviews
John’s “Blade Runner 2049” review, Jan. 23, 2018 Michael’s “Blade Runner 2049” review, Top 20 films of 2017, Jan. 21, 2018
‘Arrival’ reviews
John’s “Arrival” review, johnvhansen.com, Dec. 21, 2016 Michael’s “Arrival” review, Top 10 films of 2016, Medium, Feb. 27, 2017
‘Blade Runner 2049’ is gorgeous … and slooooow
Movie review: This long-awaited sequel indulges in its evocative settings and vibe.
Cerebral alien visitation yarn ‘Arrival’ lacks a satisfying payoff (Movie review)
Like many alien visitation films before it, “Arrival” asks “What is their purpose on Earth?” After the requisite opening where the world tenses up as 12 giant egg-shaped spaceships take up stations around the globe, “Arrival” zeroes in on that core question, boiling away all the “Independence Day”-style destruction and embracing its status as a think piece.
Villeneuve’s ‘Prisoners’ is one of the year’s best thrillers (Movie review)
I held off for a while on seeing “Prisoners” because the previews seemed to give away the whole movie: 1) Girls kidnapped, 2) dad (Hugh Jackman) tortures suspect (Paul Dano) who is obviously innocent, 3) the film gains a second meaning as he’s imprisoned by his rage and frustration.