the-cat-chat

[the-cat-chat]

May 17, 2025

Sense and Sensibility (1995)

When Elinor Dashwood's father dies, her family's finances are crippled. After the Dashwoods move to a cottage in Devonshire, Elinor's sister Marianne is torn between the handsome John Willoughby and the older Colonel Brandon. Meanwhile, Elinor's romantic hopes with Edward Ferrars are hindered due to his prior engagement.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: Time to continue my Jane Austen education with another title I’ve heard of but knew nothing about. The cast is primarily why I chose this adaptation over others, and I think the cast itself did great. To be honest though, I didn’t like this one as much as Pride and Prejudice, but also, they’re very different in a lot of ways.

To start off, the pacing in this one is super fast. The drama never stops. Which sure, makes it engaging, but let us breathe a little please. Also, I'm not a big drama person in general, so it's a bit much for me. For example, I wanted to shake Hugh Grant's character. Was all this miscommunication really necessary? By the end, I didn't even want them to end up together simply because I was over it.

Funnily enough, miscommunication and love triangles are some of my least favorite tropes and both are huge parts of this movie. Somehow the love triangle is easier to watch because the young dude is so clearly a jerk that it never feels like a true love triangle. I do give props to Alan Rickman for the serious pining he did. But why is he so interested in Kate Winslet's character? She's honestly immature and a bit annoying. I just don't see it. But I'm glad he got his happy ending.

Rating: 5.5/10 cats ��

Anzie: I honestly don’t wanna talk about it. I think it might be that Little Women (2019) is my fave and now the Jane Austen’s are kind meh- I know one���s English, one American - butttt also that might be it tooo bc if you don’t keep track of what these noisy women are saying your gone - it’s somehow English and alien all at the same time. Alsooo that dumb sister in law. Allsooo I did the math. And 500 pounds to live on. Guys. Please. How pooooor and awwwwfullll. ( I’m being facetious.) I also have to say. 2 hours to get exactly to the same men at the starttttttt. Why. It’s not even good emo pinning like Mr. Darcy. And if that girl goes in the rain one more timmmeee. Anyway - I also feel like Alan Rickman/his character is way too old for Kate Winselt’s - it kinda ruins the vibe. I mean the Colonel is all sad and wistful and that dumb jerk comes around - but sir immmm sorry- too old. And Hugh Grant? Whoever cast him for Wonka def saw this and those pants/tights bc I’m triggered and no I don’t wanna talk about it. And as always I get the meaning- but comeeeonnnn Maryann is annoying and emo and Edward is a big loserrrr and we have to suffer while they figure it out. - I’m not as angry as I may appear - but plllease.

Rating: 5/10 Cats 🐈

[the-cat-chat]

May 10, 2025

Happy Death Day (2017)

A college student must relive the day of her murder over and over again, in a loop that will end only when she discovers her killer's identity.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: I’ve been excited to watch this movie for years now, always tempted by the time travel/time loop storyline. Maybe I hyped this movie up too much in my mind cause, if I’m honest, I did not enjoy it particularly much.

I think the basic story idea is good. A college girl has to relieve her birthday after she’s murdered over and over until she figures out who’s the culprit. Mixed in is a kind of romance and a side plot about her relationship with her dad.

So yes, I do like the concept, but it doesn’t wow me in execution. I don’t actually think the movie uses the time loops to its advantage. I was surprised that most of the “investigation” that happens in the time loops is shown in time lapse form, which seems like a waste of a fun concept.

Of course, the movie also uses the time loops for jokes, but i just don't like the humor. The movie isn’t that old, but the humor feels extremely outdated. Walking naked outside the dorms while people gawk at her? Spilling a drink on a mean girl? Slapping the butt of my crush’s roommate while saying something snarky? And speaking of mean girls, wow. SPOILERS but the only nice and normal female character in the entire movie is the murderer pretending to be nice. I don’t know, that also made it feel like an early 2000s movie and not something more recent after humanity realized that we could have cool female characters that aren't complete stereotypical "bitches."

I don’t know, maybe it’s my fault for expecting more. But good news (is it good?) we are definitely watching the sequel since Anzie already rented it on accident. And I’ve read the synopsis for that one, and yikes, that will be an adventure.

Rating: 5/10 cats🐈

Anzie: If I hearrrr that “it’s my birthday”ringtone onnnne more time I’ll loose it. It better not be in the sequel or else I’m gonna cry, for realz it might be the most haunting thing I. This movie. I will say tho this is a very fun horror concept and I was very drawn in even tho some of the characters were a little meh cuz it’s collllege. There were so many twists and turns- and I did get tricked sooome buttt *spoiler* I kneeeewww it was the roommate. And for what a stupid reason. A man. A professor at that? With a wife. Guys he’s not even that handsome and he seems dumb. But the twist about her mom’s killer being there was good- but allllso way too convenient. Like how are you suppose to even know her mom was killed when we just know they shared a bday and she’s dead and now our character is avoid her dad’s phone calls? I will say I’m excited for at the dumb plot of the sequel. ☺️ Also, special shoutout to the roommate that never killed me numerous times trapping us in a time loop over a dumb married professor. 💕

* Now that I think of it - this sounds like a scary soap opera?

Rating: 4/10 Cats 🐈‍⬛

[the-cat-chat]

May 2, 2025

The Truman Show (1998)

An insurance salesman begins to suspect that his whole life is actually some sort of reality TV show.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: This movie may be be labeled as a comedy, but it’s for sure a horror movie. If someone told me it was the prequel to Black Mirror, I would believe it. I’ve watched it a few times, and it never fails to make me angry on Truman’s behalf. The end where the show maker makes his final speech and acts like he’s a great guy with good intentions infuriates me like shut upppp (which honestly means the movie has done its job effectively).

There’s so many elements of this movie that I appreciate. Not just the acting, but also the writing and the camera work. The story is put together so intentionally. I love the way the story and Truman’s character gradually spirals into this breakdown before he gets his final epic moment of freedom.

But seriously, this movie is now decades old but I think it’s even more relevant than ever before. Truman’s story reminds me of those family vloggers or influencers who put their kids into their videos and content from such a young age and they have no real agency or choice but to be entertainment for the masses. Yikes.

It may be my favorite Jim Carrey movie, and if it’s not, it’s definitely up there.

Rating: 7.5/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: Okay, so despite the fact that I really don’t like Jim Carrey for whatever reason, this isn’t a bad movie. It’s entertaining, weird, insane, but it is also a very different premise than anything else- and I’m sure at the time of its release that was even more true. But thaaat being said, that’s also where the trouble is. This is such a messed up concept. Honestly, this poor child who before birth was picked to be an experiment?? And not even for anything that you could say to justify it - like he’s gonna cure the rarest disease ever- no it’s for reality television. And you know when the creep that plotted this all out is talking to Truman in the storm - I was getting real Jurassic Park- “we didn’t stop to think we should,” vibes. Sick. And I get the commentary on it but stillll. Also his wifeeee- idk what it is about the actress whose name I entirely forget and can only think of Ozark- where guess what she was also a crazy wife. I was also really confused at times? I also wonder were there other times he caught on and how’d they make him forget? Bc no way it took him 30 something years to figure it out? Right? Like how could you have not tried to leave before everrr. Anyway. I know it’s just a movie but I’m peeved. The producer guys a real creep if you ask me.

Rating: 5/10 Cats 🐈

[the-cat-chat]

March 29, 2025

Gladiator II (2024)

Years after witnessing the death of Maximus at the hands of his uncle, Lucius must enter the Colosseum after the powerful emperors of Rome conquer his home. With rage in his heart and the future of the empire at stake, he looks to the past to find the strength and honor needed to return the glory of Rome to its people.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: Let's get straight to the point. No, the sequel isn't better than the original. It's not even as good as the original. But be for real, who was actually expecting Gladiator II to meet the expectations of the first one? I think those people need to get a grip.

Anywho, just because it isn't as good as the first one doesn't mean it isn't a good movie. There are a bunch of things I really enjoy about it, but also some not-so-great things too. I appreciated our crazy twin emperors. That makeup is insane enough to match. Shoutout to the monkey!! Best ruler so far.

I think our performances are overall really wonderful. I actually think Denzel's is the least believable and interesting. I mean his character is interesting, but Denzel's performance of that character didn't impact me as much as I wanted it too.

The story at time does feel very hand-holdy. For example, I actually like the vagueness of Lucius's parenthood in the first movie, but here they reallllllly spell it out for you. Like here's how it happened, when it happened, why it happened, etc. etc. I get that his parenthood is part of the story in the sequel, but I do think it could have been slightly more subtle.

Also, the special effects with the animals don't look as great as I expected them to? Maybe that's just me. In fact, the battles within the Colosseum didn't engage me like I wanted (with the exception of the fight with Pedro Pascal's character due to the impact on story). But the set design as a whole is great, similar to the first movie. It really feels big and detailed and believable.

So all in all, a bit of a mixed bag for me, but I wouldn't go as far as to say it's disappointing. It does have a lot to live up to after all.

Rating: 7.5/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: I’m gonna have a hot take bc yesss all these amazingly gorgeous men, Pedro Pascal and Paul Mescal, buttt I think the storyline of the original gladiator was a bit better?? Maybe just because it was the first one and the story was new? IDK. Like I hate how he was sent away and then has to do all this shenanigans- like I get itttt. But seriously and then everyone is dead by the endddd- I was so mad. And he still wants to rule Rome- what a leader- I’d of said byyye guysss thanks for ruining my lifeee. And the twin freaks. Uggg. I swear that monkey better be the emperor in the next one. And Denzel Washington- what a lil scammerrr - I never trust his characters - (except the man on fire one). See I’ve lost it. Nearly three hours of this shenanigans and hot men. My brains gone.

Alllllsoooo. The baboons. No. Himmmm biting the baboon. Also no. Them making monkey noises at him cuz he bit a monkey to death. Okayyy. Funny. But I don’t carreee bc what the flllluffff with those baboons??? And biting them. Every time I think of it I don’t know if I’m more upset about the freaky violent mange riddled baboons or him biting it. It’s a vicious cycle.

Rating: 6/10 Monkeys 🐒

[the-cat-chat]

March 22, 2025

A Different Man (2024)

An aspiring actor undergoes a radical medical procedure to drastically transform his appearance. However, his new dream face quickly turns into a nightmare as he becomes obsessed with reclaiming what was lost.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: What a cool, unique premise for a movie. Now look, I do watch a lot of movies, but I'm nowhere near an expert on storytelling, narrative, metaphor, etc. I know there are elements of the movie that I just didn't completely understand. The meta parts of the story were very evident, even I couldn't miss those, but I'm sure I didn't dive as deep as other people could to analyze everything.

My biggest takeaway from this movie is how Edward is so unhappy and depressed with his life throughout the story and especially in the beginning. And he thinks it's mainly to do with his condition. He feels like a passive observer in his life. He's going through the motions. He's "acting." And then he gets his magic "fix" and suddenly things are different. Or are they? Meeting Oswald makes him realize that it was never about his condition at all. It was always about him.

Oswald may have the same condition, but that's where things divert. Oswald puts himself out there. He starts conversations, he makes friends, he has romantic partners, he has hobbies, and people like him. He's an active participant in his life, and more than that, his presence impacts others in a significant way. It's interesting to see Edward have to face this reality for himself, which of course, causes him to spiral further.

I don't know if I've seen a movie quite like this before, which is always fun. It's not a perfect movie, but it's engaging and thought-provoking, and I'm glad I watched it.

Rating: 6.75/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: I really loved this movie. Not only is it bizarre and kept me confused for half of it, has Sebastian Stan, but it also has a really great message. Now like I said it’s wildddd- I’m really not tooooo sure about the hole in his ceiling- but I kinda too think I know exactly what it means- so that’s the whole vibe the entire movie. I know it’s not conducive to the story but if a guy showed up saying he was my neighbor and had a secret medical trial and now looked like Sebastian Stan - I’m probs gonna believe him. Buuuuttt I get that’s not realistic- but him not explaining it and just making it worse really killed me. On tooo the neighbor - I hate herrrrrr the whole movie. She writes a play on him??? Uggg and she feels like such a user. Really. I don’t like her. And thennnnn he shows up with an exact mask and she asks zero questions. The play part was reallly eeee for me. Buttt I love the message of life is really all about your attitude towards it, and the whole “wherever you go there you are” feeling. The fact that they have “Guy” move in is wild and that he snaps the way he does- the ends crazzzzyy. I do love how Oswald calls Guy Edward at dinner when he’s indecisive about ordering and calls him his old friendddd. It’s so goood. And whatttt doeesss it alll meannnn? Amazing. And the whole cast is amazing- but how Adam Pearson plays Oswald had me losing my sanity with Edward/Guy.

Rating: 7/10 Cats 🐈

[the-cat-chat]

March 15, 2025

Leprechaun 4: In Space (1996)

Resurfacing on an alien planet, the Leprechaun abducts a member of the world's royalty, Princess Zarina, in an attempt to wed her and become the supreme ruler. Unfortunately for the diminutive schemer, well-armed soldiers arrive to foil his plans.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: Leprechaun returns this Saint Patrick's Day 🍀🍀

We watched the first Leprechaun movie a few years ago, and it was certainly a movie to remember. We also decided to skip straight to #4 cause why not? I want to see that perverted little dude in space.

What can I really say about this movie? It has a low budget, bad special effects, absurd storyline, and gross characters. It’s exactly what I predicted it to be. Honestly, I was expecting much worse.

While I could’ve done without the unnecessary perversion of the female characters, at least there was a guy in drag to balance it out a little. Now that's equality (right?).

My favorite part of the movie is actually the villainous computer robot guy. He has a funny accent and a weird body. What more could you want? Also, his transformation (watch out Jeff Goldblum's The Fly, you've got some competition).

These movies are hard to rate because yeah they’re bad, but they’re not meant to be good movies anyways. So is it just a bad movie or is it a well done bad movie cause it’s bad? No idea.

Rating: 3.5/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: Why? Why do we do this? We couldn’t find something with Cillian Murphy? Watched Gangs of NY? We had to do this to ourselves. I just wanna say first- the effects. It was 1997. Disappointed. And the rock cave walls? Why did they look like guts? And I know we skipped 2 & 3 but why the actual fluff is the Leprechaun in space? Is he just on vacay? Was he banished and figured he’d kidnap a princess while he was at it? My next qualm is the Marines? Wow. And why’s everyone naked basically at random part? Did I mention I hate the leprechaun? Why are his teeth drawn into points rather than just fake sharp teeth? Was that not in the budget? And his reappearance once being blown up? Disgusting- but what did I expect. And to be honest that guy deserved it for calling it Mr. Snake. You’re a Marine sir act like it. Anyyyway. That’s the vibe- everyone pervert for zero reason and I don’t know how I made it out. But wait there’s more!!! The dna blended with spiders and scorpion. Diabolical. And the evil dr turning into the dog from The Fly II x 1000. Horrific. I’m ready to barf. Happy St. Patrick’s Day. ☘️

Rating: -10/10 Cats 🐈‍⬛

[the-cat-chat]

March 8, 2025

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

Shy freshman Charlie is befriended by two outgoing senior students, who teach him about first love and friendship. However, as his friends prepare for college, Charlie must confront his troubled past.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: I want to preface this by saying I have not read this book and went into this almost entirely blind. I knew two things: 1. It’s a coming-of-age story and 2. Emma Watson is in it. That’s it.

Overall, I feel how limited the story is by its format (aka movie). Based on the stuff in the movie, I can totally understand why the best format for this story is a book. There’s just so many moving parts and characters and dynamics and feelings that a movie can’t possibly portray it in the time that it has. I can sense how many things are left out of the movie adaptation simply due to the time limit. As a result, it does feel like the movie touches the surface of what’s going on, but can’t quite tell the nuances.

With allllll of that said, I do appreciate the movie for what it is able to do. For example, I really like how they are able to build up our main character’s mental health struggle/break. Despite him acting “normal” ish on the surface in the beginning, I feel the serious and dark undertone just lurking beneath him. It’s very well done. I also picked up on the insidious theme of harmful secrets very early on too.

I like when we do get to explore the side characters more, especially Patrick the semi-closeted friend and his definitely closeted boyfriend. However, once again, we can’t explore the stories of Charlie’s family (sister especially) simply cause there isn’t enough room in the movie. Even the love interest could have done with more development.

Also, I could NOT get over the age differences between Charlie and the others. Charlie is a freshman like 15 and the others are like 18. I know that three years isn’t a big gap in general, but in high school, it’s weird. In fact, when I was a senior in high school I remember everyone thinking how weird it was when a guy we knew would date freshman and sophomore girls. It’s just strange that two different senior girls are into freshman Charlie. (And what's with getting him to dance half naked on stage for Rocky Horror?)

And I get that they were trying to make Charlie and Sam close friends, but let’s be real, Sam was giving some mixed signals to Charlie. As a result, it’s hard to completely love Sam’s character, even knowing how much terrible stuff she went through.

I’ve thought back and forth on how to rate this movie, and I’ve come to the conclusion that I have to rate the movie I saw, not the potential I know it has. 

Rating: 6.5/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: It’s a ritual of mine to reread and rewatch this book/movie usually every year/2years, so I can’t say too much about this movie bc The Perks of Being a Wallflower is one, if not my favorite book of all time, plus baby Logan Lerman plays Charlie so welllll. But my issues, although few, are bc it leaves so much from the book for each character and Charlie’s family that really makes you understand everything so much better- which because it’s left out could make you deeply criticize the characters or still not truly understand why Charlie is so deeply hurt/ why his family is distant,yet loves one another. And I get it is a movieeeee, but plenty of movies are 2 hours long, and I it could’ve been done. I will be fair and say yeah nearly 15 years later it’s a bit cringe, but I will die on cringe hill. All the messages and insights you get from the story are deep and intertwined, and while not all of them are in the movie, theres still a few really good ones. I also really love that they filmed in Pennsylvania so you get some of the vibe of importance that plays in the book. And as imperfect as the movie is, we must admit Logan Lerman is perfect for the awkwardness and emotionally tormented character needed to portray Charlie. Again there is a lot of Charile’s family dynamic missing, that’s really important, but nothingggs perfect (except the book). So read the bookookkkkkk.

Rating: 7/10 Cats 🐈

[the-cat-chat]

March 1, 2025

Flow (2024)

Cat is a solitary animal, but as its home is devastated by a great flood, he finds refuge on a boat populated by various species, and will have to team up with them despite their differences.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: With a name like The Cat Chat, how could we not watch a movie about a cat going on an epic adventure? 

I’m gonna be totally honest, for some reason I was entirely convinced there was going to be an alien twist in this movie. I was convinced, and this bizarre prediction did distract me from the story a little.

Speaking of the story, I think it’s brilliant how the story is told without dialogue, through the environment, and with the actions and mannerisms of the different animals. You definitely could understand their various different personalities without dialogue. I find it easy to sympathize with the characters, feel empathy for their circumstances, and want them to find safety. The ending is beautiful but also kind of heartbreaking. The give and take of life and nature is often brutal.

Now I’m no expert in animation, but I did hear that the software used to animate this movie is open source. That’s an incredible feat for that team, but I have to be honest and say the animation isn’t my favorite. But that’s a personal preference of mine, and it doesn't impact the story in any significant way. Considering what they used to make it, I acknowledge how impressive it is. Post-Oscars edit: Congrats on the win 🎉🎉

Rating: 6.75/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: I have to give it up to everyone involved in this movie to be able to convey so much with zero dialogue. I was ready to start crying maybe 10 minutes in. And by the end I was actually devastated.

The story is really great and open to interpretation, but at the root of it I think the ideas that in terms of survival the best you can do is go with the flow, taking it moment by moment, and look to others for support/support them, is very sweet and done in such a unique way. I will sayyyy and it’s really minuscule because the story does outshine it, but beyond the cat and the world (water/trees,etc.) the animations a touch concerning. Like wooof. Those dogs were rough. And I do think the level of emotion they needed to convey with the animals- although they did it was a lil scary with the animation. And I even though it is great and beautiful, I think if the level of animation for the cat and everything like the water scenes/sunset/ etc. was applied to the other animals it would be stunning.

And that Jesus Christ stork’s accession into wherever it went wowza. Read into that what you’d like. I’m kinda conflicted about the end bc I don’t know if the cat really died in falling out the boat and he dreams in the afterlife that all is fine with his friends - bc we see the whale dying. Or if he does make it and everything is fine but it floods again- so that’s why we see the whale swimming at the end? Maybe it was all a dream? I have know clue and that in of itself kinda wrecked me. I think it is beautiful though as a story and that shows that how in order to have one thing, another always must be sacrificed, and it’s about perspective. Bc when the land animals were having a rough time- that whale thing was having the time of his life- and when the animals were having a moment and finally everything is normal- the whales dying. I’m nottt cryyyying you’re cryinggg gawwwddddd.

Rating: 7/10 Cats 🐈‍⬛

[the-cat-chat]

February 22, 2025

Pretty Woman (1990)

While on a business trip in Los Angeles, Edward, who makes a living buying and breaking up companies, picks up a prostitute, Vivian, to stay with him for the weekend. The two get closer, only to discover there are significant hurdles to overcome as they try to bridge the gap between their very different worlds.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: We're closing out Valentine's month with a rom-com classic. This movie has some definite funny moments, good chemistry, the acting is pretty good. It has a psuedo rags-to-riches Cinderella plot, which is fun to watch. It's very fish-out-of-water type of humor. Watching it reminded me a bit of The Princess Diaries (maybe that was just the hotel manager cameo?).

While the dichotomy between super rich but emotionally unavailable guy and down-to-earth lost prostitute woman is certainly entertaining, it does feel a bit dated now. The roles were certainly more black and white than they would be in reality.

Despite its happy ending and rich guy's "big" moment at the end, I don't feel like his character explains himself or apologizes or really communicates his ability to commit. Sure he climbs a fire escape and faces his fear of heights (presumably symbolic of his fear of commitment), but I wanted a little final speech to bring it all together. Not just a kiss and a happy ending. I'm not expecting a reveal of true love or whatever, just an I’m sorry that I was an idiot, I’m ready to be better and do better blah blah.

And I know this is fiction okay I know. But based on what we see in this movie about their lifestyles and their communication, do we really think something like this is going to last? That final nagging thought kept me from really believing in the happiness of the ending.

Rating: 6/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: I have to say I think the song and just thinking Julia Roberts is great and funny tricked me realllll good. I hate this movie. Like first. The opening scene. Let’s not discuss. But also. Taking the friend’s car? If he’s only had a driver he doesn’t have a license right bc this has partially bothered me all week- but good thing is there’s so much more to be bothered by!! Richard Gere is creepy -he just stares? And then her laughing at the I Love Lucy episode - like it’s not thatttt funny - it’s such a weird sceneeeee. And I hate how everyone looks down on her? Like it’s the 80s in California and she’s very young? I don’t think her outfit screamed prostitute? Maybe I’m wrong? I wasn’t therreee! But no, they’re all just rich snobs - which leads me to my next point. There’s no real love story? It’s just close proximity and a man throwing money at her? Likeeeeeee - tell me I’m wrong. The only saving grace of this movie is Joe from The Princess Diaries. And the gross friend? And can we go back to the money thing bc he’s just on a power trip. Like it makes him feel goodddd. Uggg. And I was so glad she left him. Onlyyyy to have him come back. Richard Gere isn’t even that handsome with his beady little eyes. I’m done. Happy Valentine’s Month.

Rating: 4/10 Cats 🐈

[the-cat-chat]

February 15, 2025

Pride and Prejudice (2005)

Sparks fly when spirited Elizabeth Bennet meets single, rich, and proud Mr. Darcy. But Mr. Darcy reluctantly finds himself falling in love with a woman beneath his class. Can each overcome their own pride and prejudice?

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: This marks my first Jane Austen movie 🎉🎉

You know, after watching Little Women and now Pride and Prejudice, maybe I do like historical romances? Maybe I just never gave them a fair shot, but we are 2/2.

Anyways, I really enjoyed this. I think there is good chemistry between our leads, and I have to admit I was invested in their pseudo enemies to lovers storyline.

Darcy is the most emo dude I’ve ever seen. He reminds me of a vampire who hasn’t seen the sun or talked to humans in a few decades. Very grumpy and dramatic and weird. Although he is kind of an asshole sometimes, mostly he just made me laugh cause he seems so out of his depth and confused.

Now I do have to admit I don’t think this movie is as strong as Little Women. Mostly it’s to do with the side characters. In this movie, they feel more underdeveloped, and I didn’t feel the true bond that the sisters in Little Women had or the more interesting dynamic between mother and daughter. I wanted more connection between them (although Elizabeth and one of her sisters do kind of bond more than the others). But truthfully, I didn’t care what happened to the other sisters, especially the younger annoying ones.

And the mother is an important character in this movie, but we don’t really get to the heart of her. She just seems shallow and mean at times. Yes she’s a product of her time, but I still wanted something deeper or at least a meaningful conversation between Elizabeth and her mother.

All in all, I still enjoyed the banter and the drama and the weird stalking. Maybe more Jane Austen adaptations need to be in my future?

Rating: 6.5/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: This is a childhood classic for me so I can’t trash talk it in pretty much any way. I mean Kiera Knightly, right in prime Pirate of the Caribbean obsession time for me - amazing in basically everything. Annnd our emo Mr Darcy in prime emo boy era. The wittiness of both characters makes the enemies to lovers plot trope very intense and enjoyable. I will say - I do like how the enemies to lovers trope does switch bc she sees how he’s acted and taken care of situations that he kindaaaaa messed up to begin with so she sees he is more caring and kind then he typically shows the world. Now tho. I have to be a lil controversial and spill the beans. I feel like I love the 2019 Little Women much more. The love story, messages, and the family/sister bond is so much more lively and dramatic/real. And I know that’s unfair bc not everything needs compared- and they’re different eras/countries/yada yada butttt in my heart Little Women will be a fave, while Pride and Prejudice is more of a core memory for me.

Rating: 7/10 Cats 🐈‍⬛

[the-cat-chat]

February 8, 2025

Your Monster (2024)

A soft-spoken actress finds her voice again when she meets a terrifying but weirdly charming monster that lives in her closet.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: Although this movie is part of our Valentine’s/romance themed month, I wouldn’t say this movie is a traditional love story by any means. It’s more of a story about self-love, which in hindsight, is nice to include in a Valentine’s themed month--celebrating diverse types of love and blah blah. 

It’s definitely a quirky, weird movie, so you have to be in the right mindset to watch it. You have to be open-minded and down to just experience the story.

I know some people are probably disappointed in this “sad” ending. But to me, the movie wasn’t about her getting the part, being on Broadway, and falling in love. It’s about standing up for yourself and not letting people walk all over you.

So in that way it does have a happy ending. Could it have happened without the bloody ending? Sure, but I think it would have been more forgettable, less unique, and rather anticlimactic.

P.S. I'd like to believe that Belle from Beauty and the Beast would enjoy specific scenes from this movie. If you've seen the movie, you know what I'm talking about.

Rating: 6/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: I have so many thoughts. First, we need to address the stupid ex-boyfriend. Sheeeee had cancer! And they really set it up good to hate him. He can’t be a caregiver. What a loser. And can I just disclaim - I never like her stupid friend either. Anddddd I callled it. I’m not gonna talk about stupid dirty cheaters. Butttt instead of being sad and cryingggg whyyyy wasn’t sheeee lividddddd. Also the monster. Perfect. Like Disney- take notes. Really. The hair. I’m jelly. What’s his hair care routine? Ummm but ya know the romance aspect of that’s always weird and this was no exception. However, I do like that it was cute and funny how our monster and Laura didn’t like each other but warmed to one another. Now. The fact that the monster is “your monster” - aka Laura’s monster- just like ugggg- which is so good but also nooo. Can’t the monster just be real? Plssss? Like writing that is such an amazing perspective- but then the endddddd. I think it’s so dumb to put all this into a character and have her accept herself and love herself and stand up for herself then sleep with this stupid gross guy again and then have revenge where she’s amazing and puts on an amazing show and then as if sleeping with the guy wasn’t enough she’s then gotta kill him? Where does that leave her? Jail? Prison? - not on Broadway I’ll tell you that. But we don’t know DO WE?!? WHY COuLdN’t ThE MmonsteRrr just be real I’m sorrryyyy I don’t need introspective growth when it ENdS like ThIssss.

P.S. I still have the ending song stuck in my head weeks later.

Rating: 6/10 Cats 🐈

[the-cat-chat]

February 1, 2025

Groundhog Day (1993)

A cynical TV weatherman finds himself reliving the same day over and over again when he goes on location to the small town of Punxsutawney to film a report about their annual Groundhog Day.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: Happy Groundhog Day! I've seen this movie a handful of times, but it's still a fun watch. I love a time loop movie, and this has to be king of the time loop genre.

I love that this movie really starts off with an asshole character for Bill Murray. He's so gross and rude and self-centered in the beginning, so his character growth by the end is so dramatic and satisfying. At the same time, I think they spend a little too much time in the beginning setting up asshole Bill Murray and not enough after his years and years being stuck in time and becoming more well-rounded and humble.

As to the romance, I like how he eventually uses his years and years of repeats to improve himself instead of just trying to be the person she wants him to be. Sure in the beginning he's manipulating her to get what he wants, but it does seem like in the end it's more about having new experiences (reading, ice sculpture, piano, languages, etc.). He naturally grows into a person that she's interested in. But seriously? He tells her he loves her after a single day (from her perspective) and she thinks that's normal? Yeah right. I would have rather he just say he admires her/really likes her/would like to take her on a date. Even if he's in love with her, he doesn't need to tell her that.

But whatever. Overall, this movie still holds up in my opinion.

Rating: 7.5/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: I thought this was so fitting for Groundhog’s Day Eve- and then I remembered it was a romance - so honestlyyy it was written in the stars. And it’s Bill Murray and if I’m being truthful, I’ll watch anything with Bill Murray in it - if not at least once- twice. And overall this is a good movie with good character development. I love the idea of a time loop being on one of the weirdest American holidays - especially with him being an actual weather man having to report on a lying rodent- that’s right I’m calling that groundhog a liar- so A+ for originality. I also loved his name was Phil?!? Like wow. Imagine your career and ability to forecast the weather being overshadowed by a ground rat with the same name. Ouch. The romance is okay but it feels weird to me. Like I get it but they seemed like a weird match? And that they were just a match bc she was there as the producer - andddd they’d only technically know each other for a day??? Even when he’s lived in groundhogsland for however long she only kneeeewwwww him a few days AT WORK?!? I do like the premise that him trying to make her love him never worked and that real love is something you give without the thought of receiving anything back. I love the scene when Phil and the groundhog are driving together -even tho the scene doesn’t end too well. Just the idea of Bill Murray driving around with a groundhog. I could probably just watch that for an hour and be happy.

Rating: 6/10 Cats 🐈

[the-cat-chat]

January 25, 2025

Fury (2014)

A grizzled tank commander makes tough decisions as he and his crew fight their way across Germany in April, 1945.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: It's been a long time since I've seen this movie, and I've only seen it once when it first came out. I randomly had the urge to rewatch it, not remembering exactly what it was about besides a bunch of dudes stuck in a tank.

I've seen a pretty good amount of war movies, and I appreciate that this one sticks out a bit since it's so focused on one tank squad (or whatever their team is called). I don't think I've ever watched a war movie about a tank squad, and it's a great way to have a more unique war story.

I love that the audience is basically baby Logan Lerman, thrust into already established team dynamics, new to violence, new to war, and a bit naive. I also like that our tank squad isn't necessarily portrayed as good, moral people, especially after having participated in so much bloodshed (I'm looking at you Jon Bernthal). That scene with Brad Pitt forcing Logan Lerman into killing is so hard to watch, but that's kind of the point. It's supposed to make you mad and uncomfortable and hate Brad Pitt's character a little. Yet, you know that Brad Pitt's character is only doing what he thinks is necessary to have his team (and poor baby Logan Lerman) survive what's to come, but the methods are harsh and brutal.

Speaking of, all the actors in our boy brigade played their part well. Nice performances all around. I remember first watching it in 2014 and thinking Shia LaBeouf can really act when the script is right.

With all that said, I'm conflicted about how to rate this one. It does so many things well, some not so well, yet it still doesn't make the list of my top war movies. There's simply too many great war movies in comparison. However, it does carve out its own special, unique niche, which is hard to do in this war genre.

Rating: 6.75/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: I usually don’t go for war movies bc typically you know how things go and I’m totallly not that into to Brad Pitt. But say Logan Lerman and I’m in. I didn’t realize that this was specifically focused on the tanks and it was interesting to see that portrayed instead of a typical war story. I think the harshness and grotesqueness yet sadness of the situation is very well done in this movie and they do a very good job of making us protect little baby Logan Lerman from all of these barbaric soldiers, yet by the end it’s so sad at how they all die one by one. And they definitely knew what they were doing when casting. I really can’t believe the ending and honestly over the last week my brain has just been like wow and really.

Rating: 7/10 Cats 🐈‍⬛

[the-cat-chat]

January 18, 2025

A Real Pain (2024)

Mismatched cousins David and Benji tour Poland to honour their grandmother. Their adventure becomes complicated as old tensions resurface while exploring their family history.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: This movie is way sadder than I expected it was going to be. It doesn't try to be exciting or thrilling, it's mostly just an honest and sad look at the relationship of two cousins after a mental health crisis.

I love how you don't really get to know Benji's backstory until his cousin reveals it in an outburst of emotion at the dinner table. Jesse Eisenberg really stands out in that scene most of all, while Kieran Culkin plays the mentally unwell, but still charming, cousin perfectly. It's crazy how he can be so offputting at times, yet he connects and impacts the people he meets so deeply.

In the end, nothing really changes, which goes against how most movie plots operate. In the end of most movies, you expect the characters to change and grow with their new perspective. For example, you'd expect for the two cousins to finally understand each other and themselves, for Benji to not be depressed and lonely, for David to not be as scared. But no. Their big road trip doesn't magically fix anything. But I think that is a very intentional choice. What's going on with Benji takes more than one road trip to heal (more than one slap), and I think the movie expresses that so well in the final shot.

The ending is almost too realistic, and I think that might be offputting for some people who want happy, hopeful endings. That's not to say that Benji's character won't heal and get better eventually, but it certainly doesn't happen in the end of this movie.

Rating: 6.5/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: I understand the gravity of this film. And it’s good and it’s real. But it is painfully awkward to observe- which such is life I guess. It’s hard tho to see Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin as characters- I really just think of them as them - and to believe they were cousins is even harder. But I do see how that helps in the distance between the characters we are suppose to see. I swear tho I probably didn’t breathe for 75% of this movie. The layers of chaos of this trip never seem to end and it’s all too real and all I was doing if I wasn’t holding my breath was screeching. Maybe that’s something to work on. And the ending is sad but in a not blatant way which is kinda worse. Gahaaaahhh.

Rating: 6/10 Cats 🐈

[the-cat-chat]

January 11, 2025

Fear Street Part Three: 1666 (2021)

In 1666, a colonial town is gripped by a witch hunt that has deadly consequences for centuries to come, while teenagers in 1994 try to put an end to their town's curse before it is too late.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: We finally complete the trilogy! There's not much more I can share about this series that I haven't already in my first two reviews of the series. I think I like the second movie the best out of the trilogy, but I do enjoy finally knowing the full story.

I like the twist in the final movie. They did a really good job building up to it over the course of the three movies so it can be effective. I think the final battle is a bit silly and does fit the CW-esque style of the previous movies. Also, it is a bit strange they introduce a random character so late in the series and he's just there for the big battle.

But overall, I think it's a fun series. I like how they utilized the same actors for different time periods. So yeah, not groundbreaking cinema by any means, but entertaining enough for fans of the YA horror genre.

Rating: 5.75/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: One thing we can always count on for a good time is a spooky movie. This one wasn’t bad and it was good to see it come to a close- though I do have to say I really liked the 2nd movie best- and this last one did us dirty. And I’d be lying if I say I saw it coming and wasn’t already emotionally attached to sheriff Goode from the 2nd movie. And I seeeee it now- ohhh his names Goode. Listen I’m not here to think I’m here to be entertained. Anywayyy. These peeps were craycray esp the knock off robpat and the preacher. But I don’t mess with eyes and that scene really did a number on me. I do like how the whole thing ends with the twist that the witch wasn’t the bad one and she’ll punish the Goode line blah blah and we see that happen. I do wish tho that with the extra characters like that creepy doll boy or the milk man they showed the back stories bc it just doesn’t really make sense to just glaze over them or how they’re connected to the Goode evil plot line and all that.

Rating: 5/10 Cats 🐈‍⬛

[the-cat-chat]

January 4, 2025

Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)

At the start of the New Year, 32-year-old Bridget decides it's time to take control of her life--and start keeping a diary. With a taste for adventure, and an opinion on every subject - from exercise to men to food to sex and everything in between - she's turning the page on a whole new life.

Warning: Review may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.

JayBell: It's a new year, and I thought we were starting off pretty safe with a rom-com with overall positive reviews. Oh how wrong I was.

At first, I felt bad for our main character Bridget. She's kind of a disaster. She goes from embarrassing moment to embarrassing moment. And yes, I think that's a crucial plot point of the movie. Here is a woman who is still figuring out her life, she's very imperfect, she makes a lot of mistakes, yet she's still deserving of love. In fact, that speech to Colin Firth about her imperfectness is perhaps my favorite part of the whole movie. Actually, Colin Firth was the only saving grace for me throughout this whole experience.

I know her behavior is supposed to humanize her and make her more sympathetic to a viewer. But it's frustrating. After a while, you just want to shake some sense into her. In the end, I don't know if I felt that she matured or grew at all from her experiences.

Speaking of the end, it's so stupid. The movie doesn't even disguise its blatant shallow manipulation of the viewer's expectations. Like no way Colin Firth reads the diary and then immediately leaves without telling her to buy her a new diary when they're literally about to sleep together. Thus prompting a half naked run through the snow leading to dramatic kiss scene. It's just stupid.

Also we reviewed the synopsis's of the sequels, and my god, you could not pay me enough money to suffer through them. I'm trying not to judge this movie on the plot of sequels that I haven't even watched, but seriously? It's hard not to.

Rating: 4/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: Honestly. I have to do bullet points or I won’t make it through. This review would probably never end. And a disclaimer: I really wish I had a time machine bc I hate starting off 2025 like this.

- First off, to say I hate Bridget Jones is too kind. I loathe her. She’s dumb and honestly all her problems are caused by her own self.

- Second - let’s fast forward to the end. She has to change her underwear. And he finds her diary. #1 my mother told me never put anything in writing. alsooooo hide that thing like you’d be mortified foooorrr the rat in your apartment to read it!!!? And she runs out in the snow in nothing but a tank top and zebra underwear - no bra- oh but wait she comes back for a size too small sweater and running shoes.

- Another issue. Hugh Grant. Listen. I get it. I’ve seen Two Weeks Notice plenty of times so I know he typically plays a jerk but also get he was somewhat attractive back in the day. But please. This character and thaaaat hair.

- The weird fight?? The whole oh he was my best man cheating scandal. There’s too much happening.

- And my final brain cell will fight to scream that I knoooow for a fact that in the fourth movie coming out this February that that young guy that was the too suspiciously attractive guy from White Lotus is definitely the love child of Hugh Grant’s character and the lady from NY- bccccc that’s the audacity this movie franchise has.

I spent sooo long wanting to see these movies and the first one made me want to claw my own liver out to beat myself senseless. And I know that’s harsh but can’t a girl ask for some minimum standards?? Bc obviously Bridget Jones can’t. And maybe that’s the lesson don’t be Bridget Jones.

Rating: 2/10 Cats 🐈 (and that’s just for Colin Firth)