Review: Spring (2014)

Quite good and different. I didn't know what to expect, but I liked it a lot. A unique love story to say the least. The acting is extremely believable and natural. Plus, the Italian location is insanely beautiful like the lead actress. There is a tiny touch of CGI, but I think it's handled rather well. All the effects and transformations are pretty cool. It could've used a little more horror I guess since it's light on scares and more of a romantic drama; however, I don't think all horror films need to be the same. That is actually one of the best parts of the horror genre: its flexibility. You can really tell whatever kind of story you want. I really love the opening of Spring. It quickly gets you on the side of the main character and makes him sympathetic. Even when he gets into a fight, he does it to save his friend. That is smart storytelling. This kind of character could've easily gotten annoying via "woe is me" all the time, but they wisely sidestep that dilemma. I'm always a fan of Lovecraftian twists, and this one definitely doesn't disappoint especially for an indie.

Review: Curse of Chucky (2013)

I'll admit I was worried at the beginning. I've liked all of the Child's Play films even though I didn't see Seed of Chucky. Not sure I want to take the risk on that one since most seem to hate it. This latest sequel took a bit to get going, but there are so many great surprises and twists in it tying back to the previous entries that I have a hard time believing any Chucky fan wouldn't like it. The extra bonus after the unrated version's end credits is quite fun too. Don Mancini included it to show how the entire series would end just in case another movie is never made. The acting is good all around especially Brad Dourif, of course, who nails it as always. His daughter turns in a nice performance as well. Chucky is definitely taken back to his more creepy, sinister roots. Characters that seem one-note and predictable don't stay that way for long. Maybe I'm just gullible, but there is so much I didn't see coming. I'll have to give Seed a try sometime just to complete the series.
 

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