The Cloverfield Paradox (2018)

The Cloverfield Paradox is a science fiction film set in the Cloverfield universe where scientists are trying to solve the energy crisis with a hadron collider in space.

I had never heard of the director before today, Julius Onah, and after today I'd say he's competent. The shots he chooses to use are interesting and different. He uses classic shots like in the position of power the person should look down on the weaker and vice versa. Also, I didn't notice any problems with the shots used during dialog. The last shot of the film was the only moment where I tilted my head in wonder as to why he chose that. It posed a lot of questions, which is both good and bad.

The writer is Oren Uziel. He wrote 22 Jump Street and Shimmer Lake and has proven that he can write both science fiction, crime, and comedy. Not many people can say they've done the same. The writing has some problems and I can't really get into spoilers but you'll find yourself asking 'How?' at some of the events that happen which I imagine fanboys will say that it's a paradox, you don't need to understand. As a man of reason and mathematics, I couldn't overlook some of the flaws in the writing. Side note: he's also writing the reboot for Mortal Kombat.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw plays the main character who has lost her children due to a tragic accident. It's a key bit of information that the beginning glosses over due to the writing. It's not a spoiler, and you should know this going in. She is convincing throughout the film and I couldn't find anything wrong with her performance. She can convey messages without having to speak which is key to a great performance. You might recognize her for her brief appearance on a show called Doctor Who.

Daniel Brühl plays Schmidt. I loved his performance in Inglourious Basterds and as Zemo in Captian America: Civil War. His character is interesting enough and has a few scenes with Ziyi Zhang, the woman from Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon and, my favorite of her performances, Hero. I can't really say too much about what their characters do without spoiling anything but safe to say Brühl does great and Zhang is here to sell the movie to the Chinese audiences. There is a lot of Mandarin spoken in this film.

Result: B- (It's above average, the second movie was much better, and I do look forward to the next)

Comments

Mortal Kombat II (2026)

Mortal Kombat II is directed by Simon McQuoid and written by Jeremy Slater , known for Fant4stic , which understandably does not inspire much confidence at first glance. Thankfully, the writing here is a major improvement, delivering a story that is more focused and far more entertaining than the first film. The sequel embraces the chaos and personality of the franchise more confidently, balancing action, humor, and fan service better than its predecessor. While the film still stumbles in places, it feels like a genuine step forward. Karl Urban , known for The Boys and Dredd , easily carries the film as Johnny Cage. His storyline is the strongest in the movie, largely because Urban knows exactly how to play the role with the right mix of arrogance, humor, and charm. He gives the film energy whenever it slows down and feels completely comfortable in the over-the-top world. Adeline Rudolph , known for Hellboy: The Crooked Man and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina , plays Kitana, t...

I Swear (2026)

I Swear is directed by Kirk Jones , known for Waking Ned Devine and What to Expect When You're Expecting , and leans fully into heartfelt storytelling. The film focuses on emotional connection and sincerity, building its narrative around relationships rather than spectacle. It is a well-made film that knows exactly what it wants to be, delivering moments that feel genuine without becoming overly sentimental. Robert Aramayo , known for The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and Game of Thrones , carries the film with a grounded and sincere performance. He brings a quiet intensity to the role, making the emotional beats land in a natural way. His portrayal feels authentic, which helps the film connect on a deeper level and keeps the audience invested throughout. Overall, I Swear is a touching and effective film that succeeds in delivering real emotion. It resonates in a way that lingers after the credits, balancing its heart with strong execution. I Swear is the kind of mov...

Hokum (2026)

Hokum is written and directed by Damian Mc Carthy , known for Oddity , and continues his focus on atmospheric, slow-building horror. The film leans heavily into unease and isolation, crafting a setting that feels both grounded and unsettling. McCarthy shows a clear confidence in tone, allowing the horror to develop naturally rather than relying on constant shocks. The result is a film that delivers on both terror and atmosphere, even if it takes its time getting there. Adam Scott , known for Parks and Recreation and Step Brothers , plays a writer who is intentionally difficult to like for much of the film. His character comes across as abrasive early on, which creates a bit of distance between him and the audience. However, as the story unfolds, the writing shifts that perception, giving him more depth and making it easier to root for him as things spiral. Scott handles that transition well, gradually pulling the audience back onto his side. David Wilmot , known for Fantastic Beast...

Movies, Film, and Chili

Search This Blog