Film Reviews Episodes

The 1993 action-adventure film "Cliffhanger," directed by Renny Harlin and starring Sylvester Stallone, John Lithgow, Michael Rooker, and Janine Turner, is an adrenaline-pumping ride that combines breathtaking scenery with heart-stopping action sequences. Set against the rugged backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, "Cliffhanger" not only showcases Stallone's physical prowess but also delves into themes of redemption, survival, and the human spirit's resilience against nature's formidable challenges. ...

The original trio push it to the limit with the 1983 classic Scarface. A bumper start to 2024 for the crew as they unpack this divisive 80's piece of drug-fuelled lore. "Scarface," released in 1983, remains a seminal piece in the landscape of American cinema, directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone. This film has garnered a cult following and continues to influence modern filmmaking and culture. Its impact can be felt not just in the realms of cinema but also in fashion, music, an...

Whitey and Damo are joined by Jeff from MCU's Bleeding Edge and they go head first into Middle Earth again for The Two Towers (2002) "The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)" is a cinematic masterpiece that continues the epic journey begun in "The Fellowship of the Ring." Directed by Peter Jackson, this second instalment in the trilogy is a compelling blend of fantasy, adventure, and drama, set in the richly imagined world of Middle-earth. The film opens where the first left off, with the F...

Rebel Moon (2023) -Full Movie Review Whitey and Damo take one for the team here as they dissect the latest "style over substance, Star Wars wannabe" outing from director Zack Snyder. In short, if you are considering watching Rebel Moon, listen to the podcast first. It's half as long as the movie and twice as entertaining. "Rebel Moon," despite its ambitious vision, ultimately falls short of the high expectations set for modern science fiction cinema. Directed by a filmmaker known for his innovat...

The boys are in a new locale and with a special guest in tow it's time to tackle Quentin Tarantino's masterpiece - PULP FICTION (1994) "Pulp Fiction" (1994), directed by Quentin Tarantino, is a film that defies conventional storytelling, blending dark humour, graphic violence, and a disjointed narrative to create a cinematic experience that is as unforgettable as it is controversial. This review aims to dissect the elements that make "Pulp Fiction" a landmark in modern cinema. From the opening c...

"The Breakfast Club," directed by John Hughes, is a seminal film of the 1980s that has transcended its era to become a timeless classic. This 1985 masterpiece delves into the lives of five high school students who, on the surface, embody the quintessential teenage stereotypes: the Brain (Anthony Michael Hall as Brian), the Athlete (Emilio Estevez as Andrew), the Basket Case (Ally Sheedy as Allison), the Princess (Molly Ringwald as Claire), and the Criminal (Judd Nelson as Bender). These characte...

"The Hangover," directed by Todd Phillips, hit the screens in 2009, quickly becoming a cultural phenomenon. This comedic tour de force revolves around a bachelor party gone awry in Las Vegas. The plot hinges on a simple, yet effective premise: a group of friends wake up after a night of heavy partying, with no memory of the previous night and the groom missing. This sets the stage for a chaotic journey filled with unexpected turns. The story follows Phil (Bradley Cooper), Stu (Ed Helms), and Ala...

"The Shawshank Redemption," directed by Frank Darabont and released in 1994, is a cinematic masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Based on Stephen King's novella "Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption," the film navigates the life of Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins), wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife and her lover. "The Shawshank Redemption" excels in storytelling, weaving a poignant tale of hope, friendship, and redemption. Andy's journey, marked by resilience and intelligence,...

It's the Born to Watch dynamic duo for The Batman (2022). Whitey and Damo will take you to a place that feels familiar but by the end you will realise it's brand new. ENJOY "The Batman," directed by Matt Reeves and released in 2022, plunged audiences into a dark, rain-drenched vision of Gotham that feels both timeless and distinctly modern. This rendition of the iconic superhero sees Robert Pattinson donning the cowl as a brooding and introspective Bruce Wayne, a younger, rawer version of the ch...

The Last Starfighter (1984) Whitey and Gow, and are back with another deep dive into a classic, and today we're joined by none other than Will the Plumber – our long-time fan and guest host for this episode. In the heart of the 1980s, a time when arcades reigned supreme and science fiction cinema was shaping itself into a formidable genre, Nick Castle's "The Last Starfighter" made its debut. A lesser-known gem compared to its contemporaries, the film crafts a narrative that is as old as storytel...

Whitey, Gow and Damo are together in the Panic Room to dissect "Behind Enemy Lines (2001)" - We all hadn't seen this movie for some time and it was an interesting rewatch that's for sure. Released in 2001, "Behind Enemy Lines" is a gripping war film that delves deep into the chaos and intensity of modern warfare. Directed by John Moore and starring Owen Wilson and Gene Hackman, the movie combines heart-pounding action sequences with themes of survival, bravery, and the human spirit. Set against ...

Welcome back to Born to Watch, where four old friends gather to relive the movies that have shaped their lives. In today's episode, we're diving headfirst into the action-packed world of the 1996 film "The Long Kiss Goodnight." So, grab your popcorn and settle in, because this one's a rollercoaster! Before we get started, let's break it down, Born to Watch style, with "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly." The Good: "The Long Kiss Goodnight" delivers on the action front with a vengeance. Director Re...

We start the journey of reviewing one of the greatest movie trilogies of all time with Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring. We have a special correspondent call in from Hobbiton itself, Strangles joins us for Good, Bad, Ugly to discuss the blockbuster with us. "The Fellowship of the Ring" is an absolute triumph in the world of cinema, delivering a spellbinding and faithful adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's literary masterpiece. Directed by Peter Jackson and released in 2001, this film ta...

"In space, no one can hear you scream", is an absolutely cracking tagline for an Iconic piece of cinema. Alien (1979) is a movie really like no other and the Born to Watch team can't wait to sink their teeth into this one. We also have a special guest join us for 'Good, Bad and Ugly" and Dan goes on a tangent in "Film School". In the vast expanse of science fiction cinema, few films have achieved the enduring impact and chilling atmosphere of Ridley Scott's "Alien," released in 1979. This ground...

One of the great cinematic experiences of all time, "Dumb and Dumber (1994)" comes to Born to Watch. The boys will try to hold it together as they take a road trip and discover if John Denver really is full of shit. In the vast landscape of comedy films, there are few that manage to capture the essence of absurdity, slapstick humour, and sheer stupidity as brilliantly as "Dumb and Dumber." Directed by Peter Farrelly and released in 1994, this cult classic has managed to maintain its place in the...

GREASE (1978) - was a pop culture musical phenomenon that took the world by storm and become a right of passage for any child in the 80s and beyond. The Born to Watch team tackles this classic and hand jive all the way to Graduation. Released over four decades ago, "Grease" (1978) remains an iconic and beloved musical that continues to captivate audiences of all ages with its infectious energy, memorable tunes, and timeless themes. Directed by Randal Kleiser and based on the 1971 musical of the ...

Iron Man (2008) is the first Marvel film that we have given the Born to Watch treatment and it's only fitting that we leave "Dan" out of the mix. The movie that started it all, "We are Born to Watch". Released in 2008, "Iron Man" marked the birth of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and ushered in a new era of superhero films. Directed by Jon Favreau and starring Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark, the film tells the story of a charismatic billionaire industrialist turned unlikely hero. With its ...

Good Will Hunting (1997) has been a movie on the Born to Watch radar for some time. Gow had it in his Top 10 List and as the scholar of the team, it easy to see why. Written and starring two up and coming superstars, Matt Damon and Ben Affleck and with a incredible performance by Robin Williams, Good Will Hunting is life changing movie experience. Released in 1997, "Good Will Hunting" directed by Gus Van Sant is a poignant and emotionally charged drama that explores the transformative journey of...

The movie that announced Keanu Reeves as an Action star, Speed (1994) is a non stop action thriller that will make your palms sweaty from the start. The BTW team start the timer and see if they can defuse the plot of Speed before it's too late. Released in 1994, Speed is a high-octane action thriller that revolutionised the genre and left audiences breathless with its relentless pace, heart-stopping suspense, and exhilarating set pieces. Directed by Jan de Bont and starring Keanu Reeves and Sand...

The Born to Watch team tackle the blockbuster spy epic, Mission: Impossible - Fallout (2018), but not everything is as it seems. One of the team is a blockbuster traitor, who will it be? Mission: Impossible - Fallout, the sixth instalment in the popular spy-action franchise, continues to redefine the genre with its relentless intensity, jaw-dropping stunts, and a gripping narrative. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie and starring Tom Cruise, the film takes the audience on a high-stakes mission fi...

Released in 1985, "Back to the Future" directed by Robert Zemeckis, is a timeless science-fiction adventure that has captivated audiences for decades. Combining humour, thrilling action, and a clever time-traveling concept, this film has become a beloved classic. With its unforgettable characters, iconic moments, and seamless storytelling, "Back to the Future" has solidified its place in cinematic history. "Back to the Future" follows the journey of Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox), a teenager who a...

The latest in the Indiana Jones franchise - Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023) was released this week and Whitey and Damo got in early and saw it. Between the both of them they will quickly and spoiler free discuss the movie and help you make your mind up on whether you should see it at the movies. Harrison Ford is back for his last chapter of Indiana Jones and with James Mangold at the helm, is this a changing of the guard for the iconic franchise. Starting strongly the movie sees Ind...

Ocean's Eleven, released in 2001 and directed by Steven Soderbergh, is a captivating heist film that seamlessly combines thrilling action, clever plot twists, and a remarkable ensemble cast. This modern remake of the 1960 Rat Pack classic not only lives up to its predecessor's reputation but also adds its own stylish flair and magnetic charm. With its intricate storyline, slick cinematography, and an all-star cast, Ocean's Eleven is a cinematic masterpiece that keeps audiences on the edge of the...

Released in 2005, "Wedding Crashers" is a comedy film that captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its raucous humour and endearing characters. Directed by David Dobkin and featuring an all-star cast led by Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn, this movie presents a fresh take on the concept of wedding crashing, blending romance, laughter, and even a touch of sentimentality. With its witty dialogue, energetic performances, and unexpected twists, "Wedding Crashers" remains a beloved classic in th...