Triple Random Movie Review - Beast, See How They Run + Pinocchio (Disney 2022)

So before we go into this big review of films, I would like to pay tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II. A wonderful lady and monarch who forever broke records for her courageous service in being the Queen of many Commonwealth nations. It will feel weird to suddenly have a king again and a lot of adjustments will take place in terms of currency, stamps and even the national anthem. Ain't going to have anyone like you again, at least in our lifetime, anyway. RIP

And with that, let's talk about some films. So as I have been watching quite a few films recently, I decided so that I'm all caught up with my backlog of reviews, to make this a triple review. None of the films have much in common apart from each having at least one actor who originally came from the UK, appearing in them, all being distributed by American based film studios and are about the same in its running time length (around 90 minutes or more). A bit of comedy, some thrills, magic and mystery as we take a look at these three recently released films:

Beast

Not to be confused with the Indian film of the same name that also came out this year (2022), this film sees the recently widowed Dr. Nate Samuels (played by Idris Elba) go on holiday to the Mopani Reserve in South Africa with his teenage daughters Meredith (played by Iyana Halley) and Norah (played by Leah Sava Jeffries). There he reunites with his old friend and wildlife biologist Martin Battles (played by Sharlto Copley) who was the one that introduced Nate to the woman who would become his wife. Although guilty for distancing himself when the wife passed away, Martin helps Nate try to reconnect with his daughters, as that is what the main reason for the trip is. As they go and explore, it soon becomes clear that a rogue beast is around, causing death and destruction in its wake. Which means the four of them must try to escape it before they, too, become its victims. This is another one of those films where you pretty much get what you paid for. Idris Elba fighting a beast and that's all there is to it, with pretty scenery and a good look at a few African animals that many of us would otherwise not be able to see in a non-zoo setting. It kind of falls into a set of films that, while not terrible, would be one that not many people will suddenly want to desperately buy when it comes to home media. But definitely one to watch when it suddenly appears on TV channels and streaming. He's done a lot of great films, but this one is just OK for what it is, to be honest with you. 7/10

See How They Run

For the second film, we have a classic whodunnit. Following the latest performance of The Mouse Trap, a murder takes place. Sent from Scotland Yard, Inspector Stoppard (played by Sam Rockwell) and Constable Stalker (played by Saoirse Ronan) team up as they are called in to investigate the murder, in which they learn about the attempt to have it be turned in a feature film (funny that) and more. The film I have heard is based on a play, and the film itself doesn't take itself too seriously. Very quirky, a lot of funny moments and despite the serious murder story, it does poke fun at clichés such as flashbacks and title cards that mention how much time has passed. Pretty good I'd say, and a wonderful cast too. 7/10

Pinocchio (Disney 2022)

Yep, another flipping remake that once again proves that all Disney want is money and still just don't quite get there with these remakes. But its not all bad. While the story is pretty much the same as before, it's got some new musical numbers as well as familiar ones. And unlike those other remakes, this one actually looks like it could've been a much more faithful remake. Sadly, this is not the case, as the dialogue and some of the characters are quite annoying and too politically correct. I guess when you wish upon a star, don't wish for a remake unless you can do it right. 4/10

And that is that. All caught up and yeah a pretty mixed bunch of films that none of which will probably get any awards. But still worth a watch regardless (well maybe expect for that last one).