Boston Strangler – Review

Disney Plus have recently released a movie about a famous murderer. Having seen the trailer, I was intrigued to see that Kiera Knightly played a journalist for the American Record, who took it upon herself to hunt him down. My Boston Strangler review is all about thoughts on this under-publicised film.

In A Nutshell

This movie is a true story of how a woman working for a prominent US newspaper wrote about a string of vicious murders. She had to convince her boss to let her deep dive into the killings and keep reporting on the continued investigation.

With many of the attacks involving a tell-tale signal, Loretta (Kiera Knightley) was starting to notice potential linkages. Despite being advised to leave it to the male reporters, she continued to push to see the evidence for herself and join the dots.

Set in the 1960s, this narrative was well told. The dim lighting and stylish cinematography make this an easy watch. The subject matter, however, is disturbing. Having said that, you see very little gore but mostly watch the lead up to each murder.

Positives

– The movie is well written with a good pace.

– Quality acting from Kiera and others.

– I felt intrigued and surprised throughout.

– The cinematography made it feel like you were taken back to 1960s America.

Point to improve

– If I am honest I was totally satisfied with this film but I do feel it would have made an excellent TV series. It deserved wider advertising and more credit.

Final Thoughts

With an audience score of 73% on Rotten Tomatoes, this film is definitely well received. Kiera plays the lead cleverly and you really get a feel for what it must have been like working at a newspaper during a very traumatic time.

Thank you for taking the time to read my brief review of ‘Boston Strangler’. For another of my film review articles check out my thoughts on the recent Dungeons and Dragons movie.

More Star Wars – News!

If you are anything like me, you will have watched all of the Star Wars films several times over the years. I was born in 1977 when the original Star Wars movie came out. This fact makes me feel like I am part of a Star Wars generation. TV series and movies come and go but right now I am excited to see that there have been more Star Wars news announcements over Easter.

I was beginning to wonder what comes next after the disappointing news that Willow won’t be renewed in the near future. Never say never though. It feels like this is the right time for some big feature films to appear on the horizon instead.

So we all need to get ourselves ready to be wowed by the amazing special effects of ILM (Industrial Light and Magic). I was recently watching a documentary about how they began with Star Wars – Episode 4. George Lucas gathered together a group of model makers and technology wizards to push the boundaries of film making. Now they make so many epic movies and lead the way with CGI.

Anyway, here is what we know so far about the new Star Wars developments. So, strap yourself in and get ready for more light-speed action and heart-warming Jedi orientated narratives.

Mandolurian Paved The Way

As the Mandolurians say quite often, ‘This is the way.’ For me, it is a no-brainer that Lucasfilm are continuing to extend the Star Wars Universe. George Lucas always saw the possibility of lots of storylines existing on the same timeline.

With the popularity of Baby Yoga (Grogu) and his companion Mando (the Mandolurian) there was bound to be more. The spin-off Star Wars series such as Obi-Wan and the Book of Bobba Fett have roped in younger fans and kept Star Wars popular and relevant. Rightly so.

What’s New?

Legendary Lucasfilm boss Kathleen Kennedy announced that there will be three more movies in the Star Wars franchise. They will be covering different aspects of the Galaxy and set at different times.

Dave Filoni, who fronted Mando and Bobba Fett, amongst other TV shows, is directing a film about the New Republic. I have been loving the new Disney Plus seasons and wondered how they all connected. Maybe this film will bridge the gaps.

James Mangold will apparently direct a movie taking us back to the dawn of the Jedi. Meanwhile, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy will be directing as we watch Rey (played again by Daisy Ridley) trying to build a new Jedi order after the events of the last film.

In A Nutshell

I have to say I wish I had had tickets to the Disney Celebration event last weekend. It must have been amazing to witness Kathleen Kennedy announce these incredible new films. Since producing Jurassic Park, ET, Schindler’s List and the newer Star Wars movies, I have always found her an inspiring film maker.

Are you excited about three new Star Wars movies? Do you have fond memories of growing up with the franchise? Let me know what you think in the comments. Perhaps you are a lifetime fan of Yoda, Leia and R2D2, like me.

Also, have a look at my recent Dungeons and Dragons review. Perhaps also consider following my blog for future similar content. I especially love reviewing books, TV shows and movies. My blog also keeps you up to date with environmental issues and how to be ecofriendly.

Dungeons and Dragons – Review

When I was a kid I used to love the cartoon version of Dungeons and Dragons. Dungeon Master with his white hair and red cloak, was filled with mystery. I used to totally immerse myself in the adventures of a random group of people who were transported to a magical world by a roller coaster. My Dungeons and Dragons review is taking a look at the new Hollywood movie, ‘Honour Among Thieves’.

It first caught my attention when I saw the cast being interviewed on daytime TV. It was interesting to see a varied cast, including Rege-Jean Page from Bridgerton and the always funny but slightly arrogant Hugh Grant.

What’s It All About?

A gaggle of characters had been getting paid big bucks to steal things from unassuming rich people. Led by Edgin (Chris Pine), the group were about to do their last challenge when some of them were trapped in a chamber and taken off to jail.

Our story begins with Edgin and Holga (a feisty Michelle Rodriguez) pleading their innocence in some kind of monster court. Without giving too much away, they end up on an adventure together. High Grant’s character is no longer their ally and has, in fact, taken Edgin’s daughter to bring up as his own.

As you can imagine, there is a lot more to this but I don’t want to get into spoiler territory.

Things I liked

– The heart of the story was good. I felt the connection and warmth between the characters. You don’t always get that with an action movie.

– The storyline made sense and was a mix of adventure and comedy. I found lots of parts very funny due to the witty script.

– I actually came out wanting more. That is very rare for me when it comes to fantasy movies like this.

– The stunts were good and there was a good balance between drama and action. Not too much action but just enough.

A Few Considerations

– I felt there could be more dragons involved as they only popped up briefly.

– Where was the Dungeon Master? I was kind of looking forward to his bit.

– Although Rege’s character was important he was very much a guest. I would like to see his role embellished in future.

Final Thoughts

As a throwback to my youth I found myself wanting to try out this cheeky film. To be honest, I wasn’t sure what to expect. It is fair to say I was definitely pleasantly surprised.

I found the movie funny, entertaining and satisfying in terms of full circle story. My Dungeons and Dragons review covers some of the positives but there are many more. I would recommend having a look at this film if you get the chance.

If you like this kind of fantasy film you may also be interested in my The Last Of Us Review. This was another action drama that had me hooked. Please comment your thoughts and consider following my blog for future book, TV and film reviews.