Rusty Movies

Captain America: Civil War  - The Comic Was Still Better Rating - 8/10 "I'm sorry Tony, but he's my friend."      Captain America: Civil War is a bold and ambitious entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe that manages to balance personal stakes with blockbuster spectacle. While it is an exciting, well-made film with plenty of standout moments, it is not quite as sharp or high-stakes as The Winter Soldier .      One of the strongest aspects of Civil War is how personal the conflict feels. Rather than another straightforward hero-versus-villain story, this film explores the fracture within the Avengers themselves. Steve Rogers and Tony Stark’s opposing ideologies make for compelling drama, and their conflict feels earned thanks to the character development from previous films.      The introduction of Black Panther and Spider-Man is a real highlight. Both characters are handled with care, immediately showing why they deserve their own ...

Nosferatu - Eggers Does it Again! Rating - 8/10 "The night holds its breath as something ancient stirs."      Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu is a hauntingly crafted reimagining of a horror classic, and it delivers an experience that feels both timeless and freshly terrifying. I give it an 8 out of 10 because while it may not be a flawless film, it excels in atmosphere and filmmaking craft in a way that lingers long after the credits roll.      The strongest element here is the atmosphere. Eggers captures a sense of dread and unease throughout the entire runtime, using his signature attention to detail and period authenticity to immerse you completely in this chilling world. The cinematography is stunning, filled with shadows, eerie landscapes, and moments that feel like moving paintings of fear.      The acting also deserves high praise. The performances feel deliberate and weighty, perfectly fitting the eerie tone. Each character seems to carr...

Don't Worry Darling - If you Missed this Movie Rating - 5/10 "There is something off about this perfect little world."      Don't Worry Darling had all the ingredients to be a standout thriller, but it never quite sticks the landing. I give it a 5 out of 10 because while it has flashes of style and intrigue, the story feels hollow and its execution leaves much to be desired.      Florence Pugh gives a fantastic performance, easily the brightest part of the film. She carries nearly every scene and makes the unraveling mystery at least somewhat engaging. The visuals are stylish and the 1950s inspired setting adds some charm, creating a world that feels both inviting and unsettling.      Unfortunately, the rest of the film struggles to keep up. The plot is thin and predictable, with twists that feel forced rather than earned. Harry Styles does not quite deliver the emotional weight his role demands, and the pacing often drags, making the su...

Ant-Man - Heroes Come in All Sizes Rating - 7/10 "Why don't you pick on someone your own size?" Ant-Man is a fun and refreshing entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, even if it does not quite hit the heights of some of its peers. While it delivers plenty of charm, creativity, and humor, it also feels a little predictable and carries the shadow of what could have been with Edgar Wright at the helm.      Paul Rudd absolutely carries this film. His natural comedic timing and easygoing presence make Scott Lang one of the most likable heroes in the MCU. The shrinking technology adds a layer of visual creativity that keeps the action sequences fresh, turning everyday objects into thrilling set pieces. The heist elements give it a unique flavor compared to the standard superhero formula. Although the villain is formulaic and forgettable.       However, you can feel the safe studio fingerprints in places where the film could have gone even further. It is ...

Transformers One - Finally, a Good Transformers Movie Rating - 8/10 "Every story has a beginning."      Transformers One took me by surprise in the best way possible. As someone who has seen this franchise deliver both highs and lows, this entry feels like a real return to form. The action is thrilling, the story is well paced, and it finally gives the Autobots and Decepticons the kind of origin tale they deserve.      The film dives deep into the early days of Cybertron, showing how friendships, rivalries, and ideologies shaped the war that would span across galaxies. It is refreshing to get a Transformers movie that cares about its characters as much as its explosions. The pacing moves briskly but never feels rushed, balancing moments of spectacle with quieter beats that give weight to the conflict.      The action sequences are some of the best in the series. They are visually sharp, easy to follow, and full of creative set pieces that...

Avengers: Age of Ultron - A Solid enough Sequel Rating - 7/10 "I once had strings, but now I am free."      Avengers: Age of Ultron set out to raise the stakes after the success of the first Avengers movie, and while it delivers plenty of action and spectacle, it struggles to balance its many moving pieces. It is entertaining and essential to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but it feels weighed down by too many subplots and an underdeveloped villain.      The film follows Earth's mightiest heroes as they face Ultron, an artificial intelligence gone rogue, intent on wiping out humanity to achieve peace. The concept is strong, and James Spader's voice work as Ultron gives the character some presence, but his motivations feel rushed and his overall impact underwhelming compared to the potential he had.      One of the biggest challenges with Age of Ultron is how much it tries to set up future storylines. There are glimpses of Civil War , te...

 Jurassic Park - A Roaring Triumph of Cinema Rating - 10/10 "Welcome to Jurassic Park."      Jurassic Park is not just a movie, it is a cinematic milestone that changed blockbuster filmmaking forever. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this film blends groundbreaking visual effects, thrilling adventure, and unforgettable moments to create one of the best sci fi films of all time. I give it a perfect 10 out of 10 because it delivers everything a movie like this should: awe, suspense, and pure entertainment.      The story follows a group of scientists and visitors invited to an island where dinosaurs have been brought back to life, and what begins as a wonder soon turns into a fight for survival. The film builds tension beautifully, with Spielberg using both the terror of the unknown and the spectacle of the creatures themselves to keep viewers on edge.      The dinosaurs look incredible even decades later, thanks to a perfect mix of pract...

Aliens  - An Awesome Sequel to an Awesome Movie Rating - 9/10 "Get away from her, you bitch!"      Aliens takes the chilling, atmospheric horror of the first film and cranks it up into one of the greatest sci fi action movies of all time. Directed by James Cameron, this sequel manages to respect the original while carving its own identity. It delivers a thrilling, intense, and surprisingly emotional experience that holds up decades later.      What makes Aliens shine is how it perfectly balances suspense with full scale action. Ripley’s return feels earned, and her arc as a survivor turned protector is one of the most compelling in the genre. The marines add a new layer of energy and camaraderie, bringing both humor and tragedy to the story.      The Xenomorphs themselves are terrifying, but it is the introduction of the Alien Queen that elevates the threat. The film is full of iconic moments, from tense motion tracker beeps to the ...

Guardians of the Galaxy  - Marvel's Surprise Hit Rating - 9/10 "I am Groot."      Guardians of the Galaxy is one of Marvel's boldest and most refreshing entries in their cinematic universe. James Gunn takes a group of relatively unknown comic book characters and crafts a movie that is both hilarious and heartfelt. It is packed with great action, memorable characters, and a tone that makes it stand apart from the rest of the early Marvel lineup.      One of the standout elements here is how well the characters are handled. Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and of course Groot all feel distinct and bring their own energy to the group. Gunn does a great job making them feel like misfits you genuinely want to root for. The humor hits often, and it never feels out of place with the story.      The soundtrack absolutely rules, and it has become one of the defining traits of this film. From the opening beats of "Come and Get Your Love" to th...

No Country For Old Men  - A Masterclass in Creating a Slow Burn Rating - 9/10 "What's the most you ever lost on a coin toss?"      No Country for Old Men is a haunting and masterfully crafted film that earns a strong 9 out of 10 from me. This is one of those movies that grabs you with its quiet tension and never really lets you go. It is dark, unsettling, and filled with moments that make you stop and think long after the credits roll.      The performances are outstanding, with Javier Bardem delivering one of the most chilling portrayals of a villain in modern cinema. Anton Chigurh is both unpredictable and terrifying, and his presence alone keeps the movie on edge from start to finish. Josh Brolin and Tommy Lee Jones also bring weight to their roles, grounding the story with a sense of realism.      What makes this movie so effective is its pacing and atmosphere. It does not rely on flashy action but instead builds dread through si...

Captain America: The Winter Soldier  - Marvel at it's Best Rating - 9/10 "On your left."      Captain America The Winter Soldier is one of the best Marvel films to date, maybe still the best in the MCU. This movie blends superhero action with a political thriller atmosphere in a way that feels both fresh and intense. From the very start, the stakes feel high, and that tension never lets up.      The action scenes are some of the best the Marvel Cinematic Universe has to offer. Every punch, chase, and shield throw has weight, and the choreography is incredibly well done. What really makes this film stand out is how it balances those exciting moments with real suspense and intrigue. The story of Steve Rogers uncovering corruption within S.H.I.E.L.D. is engaging and keeps you hooked until the very end.      The introduction of the Winter Soldier as a formidable and emotional antagonist adds depth to the narrative. His presence raises the t...

Shrek the Third - A Disappointing Fairy Tale  Rating - 4/10 "Do you think this is all about you?"      Unfortunately, when it comes to Shrek the Third , it feels like the heart of the series was left behind. I give this movie a disappointing 4 out of 10 because it lacks the clever writing, charm, and spark that made the first two Shrek films so great.      The story follows Shrek as he tries to find the true heir to the throne while also grappling with the idea of becoming a father. While that premise has potential, the execution is weak and forgettable. The jokes often fall flat, the pacing drags, and the magic that once made Far Far Away such a joy to visit feels absent here.      The villain, Prince Charming, fails to leave much of an impact, and the side characters who once brought life to the story are mostly underused. Even the chemistry between Shrek, Donkey, and Puss in Boots feels forced this time around.    ...

The Big Lebowski - All Hail The Dude Rating - 9/10 "The Dude abides."      The Big Lebowski is such a lasting cult classic. It is endlessly rewatchable, hilarious, and unlike anything else. The Coen Brothers created something special here. On the surface the story is about mistaken identity and a missing rug, but the film takes that simple setup and spins it into a bizarre and unforgettable ride. Every scene feels offbeat yet strangely perfect, and the humor lands in a way that feels both clever and absurd.      Jeff Bridges delivers one of the most memorable performances of his career as The Dude. His laid back attitude mixed with the chaos around him makes for constant laughs and an oddly relatable character. John Goodman as Walter is equally brilliant, bringing intensity and unpredictability to every scene he is in. He is an absolute wild card and makes the absolute most of his character every chance he gets. Together, they make one of the best on scre...

Thor: The Dark World - More Like the Dull World Rating - 5/10 "Your bravery will not ease your pain."      That line almost sums up my feelings about Thor The Dark World . Brave effort, sure, but in the end it is one of the weakest Marvel movies in the MCU. It really isn't even that bad by any means and fixes some of the problems I had with the first Thor movie. It's just mostly boring.       The biggest problem here is Malekith. A villain should drive the story and raise the stakes, but instead he feels like a placeholder with no depth, no presence, and nothing memorable. A weak villain leads to a weak story, and the result is a movie that never feels urgent or exciting.      The plot is also a problem. It is full of exposition and complicated explanations, but none of it is very interesting. At the same time the pacing drags, making the whole film feel long and flat. Even the humor does not land the way it did in the first Thor . ...

 War of the Worlds - The World's Worst Amazon Ad Rating - 0/10 "It's worse than you think."      Let me just say it straight up—this is one of the worst movies, but also one of the funniest for all the wrong reasons. War of the Worlds (2025) , starring Ice Cube, is a train wreck of epic proportions. The acting is stiff, the CGI is laughable, and the story feels like it was written on the back of a napkin. And yet, I couldn’t stop watching.      The movie tries to put a modern spin on the classic story by having aliens invade in a “screenlife” style format (everything takes place through a computer screen). The idea isn’t terrible on paper, but in execution it’s a disaster. Instead of feeling tense or creative, it just feels cheap, clunky, and awkward. Add in the fact that these aliens apparently eat data , and you have a sci-fi concept so ridiculous it’s hard not to laugh.      And then there’s the product placement. I don’t mind a littl...

Iron Man 3 - An Entertaining Mess Rating - 6/10 "You know, it’s times like these when I realize what a superhero I am."      Iron Man 3 closes out Tony Stark’s solo trilogy with a movie that is fun, entertaining, and filled with action. It has all the energy you would expect from a Marvel movie, with Robert Downey Jr once again carrying the role of Tony Stark with charisma and wit. Yet for all the explosive fights and cool tech, the film stumbles with some of its biggest creative choices, leaving it feeling uneven.      The movie picks up after the events of The Avengers with Tony Stark struggling with anxiety and the weight of being Iron Man. On paper, this is a great direction. Seeing Tony more vulnerable and human could have added depth to his character, and at times it really works. Robert Downey Jr. once again proves he was born for this role, delivering the same sharp wit and charisma that made audiences love him from the start.     ...

Lilo & Stitch - The Best of Disney's Post-Renaissance Era Rating - 8/10 "Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten."      Disney’s Lilo and Stitch is one of the most heartfelt animated films to come out of the early 2000s. While it may not have the sweeping fairy tale magic of classics like Beauty and the Beast or The Lion King , it shines in its own unique way with a story rooted in family, identity, and finding love in unexpected places.      The film follows Lilo, a quirky Hawaiian girl struggling with the loss of her parents and trying to find her place in the world alongside her older sister Nani. Their bond is put to the test when Lilo adopts Stitch, an alien experiment designed to cause chaos and destruction. What begins as a disaster quickly becomes one of the most touching stories about chosen family and unconditional love.      The dynamic between Lilo and Stitch is what makes the movie so speci...

Room - An Overwhelmingly Emotional Masterpiece  Rating - 9/10 "When I was small, I only knew small things. But now I’m five, I know everything."      Room is one of those rare films that stays with you long after the credits roll. Directed by Lenny Abrahamson and starring Brie Larson in a career-defining role, this movie is both heartbreaking and uplifting in ways that are hard to put into words. It is an emotional journey about survival, motherhood, and the resilience of the human spirit.      The story follows Joy (Brie Larson), a young woman held captive for years, raising her son Jack (Jacob Tremblay) in a confined space they call “Room.” For Jack, Room is the entire world. For Joy, it is a prison she desperately wants to escape. When they finally attempt a daring plan for freedom, the movie shifts into an equally powerful second half that explores what it means to adjust to life beyond captivity.      Brie Larson’s performance i...

The Avengers - The Superhero Movie that Changed the Game Rating - 9/10 "That’s my secret, Cap. I’m always angry."      When The Avengers hit theaters in 2012, it was more than just another superhero movie. It was the culmination of years of careful buildup through Marvel’s earlier films like Iron Man , Thor , and Captain America: The First Avenger . Audiences had never seen separate stories woven together like this, and the result was a film that not only delivered on the hype but raised the standard for what superhero movies could be.      The story follows Nick Fury bringing together Earth’s Mightiest Heroes to face Loki, who arrives with a dangerous plan to conquer the planet using the Tesseract. The setup allows for epic battles, but the real brilliance comes from watching these wildly different characters collide and eventually learn to work as a team. The tension between Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, and Hulk creates both drama and humor, making...

Shrek 2 - A Shrektacular Sequel Rating - 9/10 "Better out than in I always say."      Shrek 2 is one of those rare sequels that not only lives up to the original but manages to surpass it. DreamWorks took everything that worked in Shrek and dialed it up, creating a film that is sharper, funnier, and more ambitious while still keeping its heart firmly in the right place. Nearly two decades later, it still stands as one of the best animated sequels ever made.      The story continues with Shrek and Fiona traveling to the kingdom of Far Far Away to meet her parents, King Harold and Queen Lillian. What should be a happy reunion quickly turns into a clash of expectations, especially when the Fairy Godmother and her spoiled son Prince Charming enter the picture. The setup allows for plenty of comedy, but it also digs into themes of acceptance and identity, making it more than just a string of jokes.      The cast shines once again. Mike Myers,...

Captain America: The First Avenger - Sometime Old Fashioned is Good Rating - 7/10 "I can do this all day."      Captain America The First Avenger is a charming and earnest entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe that lays the foundation for one of its most beloved heroes. While it may not have the flashiest action or the sharpest pacing in the MCU, it succeeds by leaning into heartfelt storytelling and old fashioned heroism.      The film follows Steve Rogers, a scrawny but determined young man from Brooklyn who dreams of serving his country during World War II. After being deemed unfit for military service, he volunteers for an experimental program that transforms him into the super soldier Captain America. What follows is a blend of wartime adventure, espionage, and personal sacrifice that shapes Steve into the leader audiences would come to know in later films.      Chris Evans brings sincerity and warmth to Steve Rogers, making him in...

Alien - The Best Sci-Fi Horror Rating - 9/10 "In space no one can hear you scream."      Ridley Scott’s Alien is a masterclass in sci fi horror that still holds up decades after its release. It blends atmospheric tension, stunning visuals, and unforgettable moments of terror into a film that feels timeless. This is not just a monster movie — it is an exercise in slow burn suspense and world building that has influenced the genre for generations.      The story follows the crew of the Nostromo, a commercial spaceship returning to Earth. When they respond to a distress signal on a distant planet, they unknowingly bring aboard something far more dangerous than they could imagine. What follows is a tense and claustrophobic fight for survival as the alien stalks them one by one.      Sigourney Weaver shines as Ellen Ripley, a character who would go on to become one of the most iconic heroines in science fiction. Her performance is grounded and ...

 Drive-Away Dolls - An Ethan Coen Miss Rating - 5/10 "Some trips just do not go the way you think they will."      Drive-Away Dolls tries to mix crime, comedy, and a road trip adventure, but it ends up feeling uneven and a little hollow. It has moments of charm, yet the story never fully delivers the excitement or emotional pull that it promises.      The plot follows two best friends, Jamie and Marian, who hit the road for a fresh start. What begins as a simple drive quickly turns chaotic when they cross paths with criminals and get tangled up in a mess they never asked for. The film plays with quirky humor and offbeat characters, but it struggles to keep a consistent tone from scene to scene.      The performances are solid. Margaret Qualley brings a playful energy with an accent you'll either love or hate, and Geraldine Viswanathan adds heart and relatability. There are fun moments of dialogue and flashes of clever writing, but they...

 Thor - Kind of Lame for Movie about a Space Viking Rating - 6/10 "Whosoever holds this hammer, if he be worthy, shall possess the power of Thor."      When Thor hit theaters in 2011, it introduced a new corner of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Instead of high-tech suits or super soldier serums, we got Norse gods, rainbow bridges, and a hero who could call down lightning. It is a film with some bright moments, but it never quite reaches the heights of the MCU’s best entries.      The story follows Thor, the crown prince of Asgard, played by Chris Hemsworth. After disobeying his father Odin and starting an unnecessary conflict, Thor is stripped of his powers and banished to Earth. There, he meets scientist Jane Foster (Natalie Portman) and learns that heroism is about more than swinging a magical hammer. Meanwhile, his brother Loki begins a scheme that could put both Asgard and Earth in danger.      Chris Hemsworth’s charisma is unde...

 Shrek - The Greatest Fairytale Ever Told Rating - 9/10 "What are you doing in my swamp?"      Some animated films are timeless because of their beauty, others because of their humor. Shrek , released in 2001, manages to be both, blending fairy tale parody with genuine heart in a way that still works over twenty years later.      The story follows Shrek, a grumpy green ogre who just wants to live alone in his swamp. When a flood of displaced fairy tale creatures invades his home thanks to the orders of the tiny but tyrannical Lord Farquaad, Shrek strikes a deal to get his peace back. Along the way, he teams up with the endlessly chatty Donkey and sets out to rescue Princess Fiona, who may not be the picture-perfect royal he expects.      What makes Shrek stand out is its ability to balance wit and warmth. The humor works on multiple levels—kids can enjoy the goofy slapstick while adults catch the sharp, satirical jabs at fairy tale t...

Iron Man 2 - A Disappointing Sequel to the Strong Beginning Rating - 6/10 "I’m Iron Man. The suit and I are one."      Following the massive success of the first film, Iron Man 2 had a lot to live up to when it hit theaters in 2010. While it delivers some fun moments, snappy dialogue, and plenty of Tony Stark swagger, it ultimately feels like a step down from its predecessor.      The story picks up with Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) basking in the public glory of revealing himself as Iron Man. But being a superhero has its drawbacks—he’s under government pressure to hand over his tech, his health is failing due to the arc reactor in his chest, and a new threat emerges in the form of Ivan Vanko (Mickey Rourke), a Russian inventor with his own electrified vendetta.      Downey Jr. is still the highlight here. His charisma and comedic timing carry the film, and the banter between him and Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) remains sharp. The i...

John Wick  - Exactly what we want from a Good Action Movie  Rating - 8/10 "People keep asking if I’m back… Yeah, I’m thinkin’ I’m back."      Some action movies are loud, messy, and forgettable. John Wick is none of those things. Released in 2014, this Keanu Reeves–led revenge thriller redefined modern action filmmaking with its sleek choreography, sharp world-building, and an unexpectedly emotional core.      The setup is simple but powerful. John Wick is a retired hitman mourning the loss of his wife. When a group of careless thugs steals his car and kills the puppy she left him, they unknowingly reignite the fury of one of the most feared assassins in the criminal underworld. What follows is a beautifully brutal rampage fueled by grief, precision, and sheer determination.      Keanu Reeves delivers one of his most memorable performances here. His stoic, deliberate portrayal gives John Wick an almost mythic presence, yet there...

 Howl's Moving Castle - Another Fantasy Masterpiece of Miyazaki Rating - 9/10 "A heart’s a heavy burden."         Some animated films are beautiful to look at, others tell unforgettable stories, and  Howl’s Moving Castle  manages to do both. Directed by the legendary  Hayao Miyazaki  and produced by  Studio Ghibli , this 2004 fantasy is a feast for the eyes and the imagination. Even nearly two decades later, it remains one of the most enchanting animated films ever made.      The story follows Sophie, a young woman cursed by a witch to live in the body of an elderly woman. Seeking a way to break the spell, she crosses paths with Howl, a charming but mysterious wizard who lives in a magical, walking castle. Their journey is filled with magic, war, strange creatures, and unexpected moments of tenderness. It is a tale about love, identity, courage, and finding your place in a world that is often unpredictable.  ...

 The Incredible Hulk - Nothing Incredible Here Rating: 5/10 "You wouldn't like me when I'm angry." Unfortunately, I didn’t like The Incredible Hulk much when I wasn’t angry, either. Released in 2008 as the second film in what would become the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this take on the big green guy is darker, slower, and, honestly, not very fun. The story picks up with Bruce Banner (Edward Norton) on the run, hiding from the U.S. military after a gamma radiation experiment turns him into the Hulk. He’s searching for a cure while staying one step ahead of General Ross (William Hurt) and navigating a strained romance with Betty Ross (Liv Tyler). Meanwhile, a new threat emerges in the form of Emil Blonsky (Tim Roth), who eventually becomes the monstrous Abomination. Here’s the problem: The Incredible Hulk takes itself so seriously that it forgets to be entertaining. There’s very little levity, and the pacing feels sluggish in between (the very few) action beats. I...