I got sidetracked adding my new site to Cloudflare last night. Here is a psychological thriller with strong performances and cinematography. #jackmeatsflix

My quick rating - 5.5/10. This is a film that promises psychological depth and thrilling suspense but doesn't quite hit the mark. Set against the bleak backdrop of a 1964 Massachusetts winter, it follows its titular character Eileen (Thomasin McKenzie), a young secretary at a prison, as she becomes infatuated with Rebecca Saint John (Anne Hathaway), the captivating new counselor. Their relationship takes a dark and twisted turn when Rebecca shares a disturbing secret, propelling Eileen into an unsettling moral quandary. The highlight of the movie lies in the performances of Hathaway and McKenzie, who bring their characters to life with nuance and intensity. Hathaway’s Rebecca exudes a magnetic charm, while McKenzie’s Eileen conveys a quiet desperation that perfectly mirrors the film’s wintry, oppressive atmosphere. The cinematography is another highlight, effectively capturing the starkness of the 1960s setting and the emotional coldness of the story. The film’s willingness to delve into disturbing themes and shocking twists may resonate with fans of the source material, though familiarity with the book is not required to grasp its themes. I unfortunately had not read it through so I cannot say that with too much confidence. As expected, these strengths are undermined by significant flaws. The pacing is slow and uneven, with long stretches where little happens to build suspense or drive the story forward. What should have been a tense and gripping psychological thriller instead feels inert, with a lack of urgency or intrigue. The climax, which should have tied the story’s threads into a meaningful resolution, instead leaves much to be desired. The ending feels implausible and unsatisfying, raising questions about the film's overall purpose. While it aims for ambiguity, it instead lands in frustration, leaving you wondering, “What exactly was the point here?” Despite stellar performances and an evocative setting, Eileen struggles to deliver on its psychological thriller premise. Its sluggish pacing, lack of tension, and unsatisfying conclusion hold it back from being a truly memorable experience. Fans of the book or those intrigued by its unsettling premise may find some value, but others may be left cold. I still was entertained enough by the positives even though I expected more from such a talented cast.

Part of the Hulu bundle or a few other streamers are choices for this one.

https://jackmeat.wixsite.com/jackmeat/post/eileen-2023

This movie's dark humor and unique vision make it worth a watch for fans of experimental indie horror. #jackmeatsflix

My quick rating - 5.5/10. This flick carves out a unique niche in the indie horror space with its bizarre story and dark sense of humor. Following a family of murderous sideshow performers on the dying carnival circuit, the movie thrives on atmosphere and visual appeal but stumbles in storytelling. One of the features of this film that I noticed right away is its dedication to practical effects, which lend a raw, gritty edge to the grotesque world it builds. The visuals are undeniably captivating, creating a surreal, hallucinatory aesthetic that pairs well with the film’s twisted tone. Unfortunately, these hallucinatory sequences occasionally feel tedious, detracting from the narrative's momentum. When CGI is used, it falls short of the film’s overall quality, breaking the immersion created by its otherwise impressive visuals. The quirky characters, played by largely unrecognizable but committed actors, are a strong point. Each performer brings a distinct charm to their role, enhancing the eerie carnival atmosphere. The film’s dedication to its indie roots is commendable, as it represents a clear labor of love from the Adams family who clearly are passionate about horror filmmaking and no, that isn't an Addams Family joke. While the movie isn’t a slasher, it offers a subtler, more atmospheric brand of horror. The twisted ending leaves a lasting impression, though the bizarre narrative sometimes feels more like a loosely connected series of vignettes than a cohesive story. In the end, Where the Devil Roams stands out for its creativity and ambition, offering a step above your typical homemade horror flick. Its dark humor and unique vision make it worth a watch for fans of experimental indie horror, though its pacing and inconsistent effects work may deter others.

This is a Tubi film. Check Justwatch or head to Amazon to find where to view it yourself.

https://jackmeat.wixsite.com/jackmeat/post/where-the-devil-roams-2023

Here is my spoiler-free take on this dark, symbolic horror story with a philosophical edge, and excellent performances. #jackmeatstv

My quick rating - 7.1/10. This one isn't just another horror show, it's an experience that demands your full attention. A gritty, atmospheric blend of crime drama and symbolic storytelling, this series follows Detective Lois Tryon (Niecy Nash) and a nun, Sister Megan (Micaela Diamond), as they investigate a series of gruesome and deeply personal crimes. What starts as a straightforward pursuit of a killer spirals into a haunting exploration of personal demons, societal decay, and the complex web of human suffering. Its layered narrative unfolds slowly, morphing from a crime thriller reminiscent of Se7en into something far more abstract and thought-provoking. This transition may alienate casual viewers but rewards those who stick with it. Niecy Nash delivers an award-deserving performance as the alcoholic Detective Tryon, infusing the character with grit, vulnerability, and a sense of weariness that anchors the story. Her chemistry with Sister Megan, whose role offers a spiritual counterpoint to Tryon's pragmatic approach, adds richness to the series' dynamic. Surprisingly, Travis Kelce shines as Ed, breaking away from his athletic background to deliver a solid performance that complements the show's dark tone. The series doesn’t shy away from brutality, both in its physical violence and the emotional toll it exacts on its characters. The crimes are horrifying, but they serve a purpose beyond shock value, reflecting broader societal issues in a way that feels disturbingly relevant. The symbolism is heavy, and the show often feels like a mirror reflecting the nightmare of modern existence, particularly in the U.S. However, Grotesquerie isn’t without its flaws. The pacing can feel stretched, with some episodes dragging as they weave their intricate web. Its abstract nature, especially in later episodes, may leave you either fascinated or frustrated. This isn't a series to watch while multitasking; it demands your full engagement to appreciate its depth and unravel its mysteries. Overall, Ryan Murphy delivers a bold and polarizing series that refuses to spoon-feed its audience. It’s brutal, symbolic, and deeply unsettling, but for those willing to commit, it offers a uniquely rewarding journey. Whether you view it as a critique of modern society or simply a chilling crime drama, it’s an experience that will linger long after the final credits roll.

You can check it out on Hulu or buy it on Amazon.

https://jackmeat.wixsite.com/jackmeat/post/grotesquerie-season-1-2024

Yes, I hate slidehows as well but this gives a good look at what flix to pop onto your watchlist for 2025. #jackmeatsflix

https://www.msn.com/en-us/movies/news/the-32-most-anticipated-movies-of-2025/ss-AA1wQpGI?ocid=nl_article_link

Here is an exhaustive list of everything coming to your favorite streamers this month (if you scroll down, a new streamer pops, it isn't just MAX). #jackmeatstv

https://www.tvguide.com/news/new-on-max-hbo/

A nostalgic and heartfelt tribute, but one that plays it safe and misses the chance to explore the man behind the legend in greater detail. #jackmeatsflix

My quick rating - 6.0/10. This documentary is more of an autobiography than a traditional documentary, offering a heartfelt and nostalgic celebration of one of pop culture's most influential figures. Chronicling the life and career of Stan Lee, the co-creator of iconic characters like the Fantastic Four, Iron Man, X-Men, and The Avengers to name a few, the film serves as both a love letter to his legacy and an exploration of the golden age of comics. Much of the story is narrated by Lee himself, giving the film a personal touch that resonates with fans who have followed his career over the decades. The documentary dives into his philosophy of creating relatable heroes and compelling stories, which is fascinating and reflects his profound impact on the comic book industry. For longtime fans like me—who fondly remember biking to the comic shop every Tuesday during junior high to pick up the latest issues—the film is a nostalgic trip down memory lane. The creative use of sculptures to depict elements of the golden age of comics is visually striking and effectively captures the era's magic. It also touches on significant moments, such as Lee’s collaborations and clashes with artists Steve Ditko and Jack Kirby. While these insights are appreciated, they feel somewhat surface-level, leaving much to be desired if you are looking for deeper exploration. Unfortunately, the documentary glosses over large portions of Lee’’s life, particularly after Marvel's sale—a pivotal moment whose details are left unaddressed. The film skips a significant gap from the late 1960s to the 2010s, missing an opportunity to shed light on Lee’’s life away from Marvel and his thoughts on how his characters were handled in the years following his departure. While it briefly mentions his marriage to Joan Lee and their daughter, these personal details are fleeting and lack depth. For new fans or those unfamiliar with Lee’’s history, this flick serves as an engaging primer, but for longtime enthusiasts, it offers little new information. It feels more like a tribute than a comprehensive biography, leaving questions about the man behind the legend largely unanswered. Still, as a celebration of a true cultural icon, it succeeds in showcasing the joy and wonder he brought to millions. While it doesn’t delve as deeply into his personal life or later years as I would have hoped, the documentary remains a well-made homage to one of the greatest storytellers of our time.

This one is currently streaming on Disney+ only and I am not going to keep dating when that info is current. Here is the Justwatch link which will stay updated for you.

https://jackmeat.wixsite.com/jackmeat/post/stan-lee-2023

Such a great action/horror comic gets completely mediocre treatment in this animated adaptation. #jackmeatsflix

My quick rating - 5.0/10. I have always been a fan and this flick takes on the dark and dramatic story of Hope, a young woman accused of consorting with the Devil. When faced with a satanic deal for her life, she refuses the terms and undergoes a transformation into the powerful Lady Death, embarking on a quest to wrest control of hell from her father. Despite the rich source material of the Lady Death comics, this animated adaptation falls short of delivering the epicness it promises. The animation itself is average at best, lacking the finesse or uniqueness that could elevate the dark fantasy world. While serviceable, it feels uninspired, which is disappointing given the grand and otherworldly settings the story could have explored with more flair. The story also suffers from a lack of depth and urgency. The transformation of Hope into Lady Death should have been a pivotal and powerful moment, but it’s executed with little emotional resonance. Fans of the comics might find themselves torn. On one hand, the film doesn’t outright tarnish the reputation of the source material; on the other, it doesn’t bring the fire and drama that made the comics stand out. This adaptation lands squarely in the realm of mediocrity—a missed opportunity to translate an iconic anti-heroine into a compelling animated tale. Ultimately, I thought it was a bland rendition of a story brimming with potential. It’s not outright bad, but it’s forgettable, which may be its greatest sin.

Seems Crunchyroll is the only place to check this one out.

https://jackmeat.wixsite.com/jackmeat/post/lady-death-2004