Don’t Be a Hero (USA) (2018)
In this short film by writer/director Pete Lee, Missy Pile plays Lizzi Jo a middle-aged woman living with her mother, working a dead-end job, who robs bank to break her monotonous life every once in a while. In this inspired by a true story film, the storytelling is strong and the acting is on point. The costumes are fun and the way this is all shot is fantastic. The film starts off with synthwave which feels annoying at first, but then becomes a big part of the film and of what helps it feel complete. It’s a short that is potent on emotions and filled with talented people in all positions.
211 (2018)
As they take on a ride-along of a kid caught in a bad situation and being punished for it, two cops stumble upon a bank robbery gone wrong.
The Bootleg Files: The Lawton Story
BOOTLEG FILES 640: “The Lawton Story” (1949 Christian film).
LAST SEEN: In a March screening at the Vaska Theater in Lawton, Oklahoma.
AMERICAN HOME VIDEO: VHS copies were briefly available in a single Oklahoma store.
REASON FOR BOOTLEG STATUS: It’s complicated.
CHANCES OF SEEING A COMMERCIAL DVD RELEASE: There are too many issues to address.
The first feature-length American production of the sound film era that depicted Jesus Christ as a full-frontal walking, talking central character was not made in Hollywood. Instead, it was shot in an Oklahoma site called Holy City of the Wichitas, located outside of the city of Lawton. In many ways, the back story on the film’s creation is more fascinating than the on-screen presentation, although the film is not without its value.
Continue reading
Ninja III: The Domination (1984): Collector’s Edition [Blu-Ray]
Many years later, director Sam Firstenberg’s “Ninja III” is an out of left field mix of horror, action, and ninjas, all of which were very popular in the eighties. I was never quite sure what happened to “Ninja” one or two, but when I was a kid, “Ninja III” was a bonafide favorite of mine that I’d indulge in every time it was on network television. Thankfully I’m not alone as “Ninja III” has become a cult classic that stands alone, much like “Troll 2.” There’s just something fascinating about a young woman and aerobics enthusiast being possessed by the ghost of a ninja, who begins to seek revenge on his past foes.
Cinema Crazed 2018 Summer Movie Gift Guide
Summer is right around the corner and that’s great news for a lot of people. But us. That said, we wouldn’t be able to live with ourselves if we didn’t suggest some movies and movie related material for you, our loyal readers, to go through and get you through those scolding hot summer days. Remember that when you buy through us, you support Cinema Crazed, and if you can’t spare a donation, that’s just as good. So please, show us some love, if you can. Here are some suggestions for Mr. and Mrs. Movie Loving Public.
Ideal Home (2018) [FilmOut San Diego 2018]
A gay couple having their issues is surprised when a child shows up with a note needing them to care for him.
Paddington 2 (2018) [Blu-Ray/DVD/Digital]
I didn’t think it was possible, but “Paddington 2” is just as good as the original “Paddington.” It doesn’t repeat the same beats from the original film, but expands on the world we engaged in when we first met the friendly bear. Director Paul King is back and could easily have suffered a sophomore slump with a sequel that was filled with redundancies and pandered to a more mainstream crowd, but thankfully “Paddington 2” stays true to itself, following the adventures of our good hearted bear as he attempts to spread love where ever he goes, and find the good in people.