Tom H’s Film Reviews

866 Films have been rated or reviewed by Tom H.

Terminator Salvation (2009): Lacking in the same attitude as the original 2 Terminator films, Salvation has some enjoyable action moments and special effects, plus a cool bass–heavy score, but never quite reaches the heights hoped of a reboot.
Terminator 3 - Rise of the Machines (2003): Not as great an actioner as T2, or as inventive or menacing a sci–fi film as T1, this is an okay continuation of the series, with a number of added Hollywood elements (such as an often half–clad female terminator).
Matrix Revolutions (2003): I suppose you have to see it if you're at all invested in the story– although there really isn't much of one left. Revolutions his has some flashy sequences, but continues on the 'cartoonish' path, giving this an entirely different feel to the first f
Matrix Reloaded, The (2002): Some decent special effects, although somewhat more cartoony this time around, The Matrix Reloaded is more flashy than gritty, more style than substance, and overall simply less enjoyable than the first (which was an action masterpiece).
Seven Swords (2005): There are some very interesting action sequences, in pure over–the–top Tsui Hark style, and some interesting characters at hand. Just a pity that the fantasy story is so muddled that there is little room for character development or plot arcs.
Red Cliff (The Battle of Red Cliff) (2008): Impressive martial arts epic, with huge battles to behold, this is the 1–part edition of the Battle of Red Cliff. Possibly even better for being cut down, this leaves much of the drama to one side, focussing on the epic battle.
Curse of the Golden Flower (2006): While not as deep as Crouching Tiger, or as focussed as Hero, this has a number of breathtaking and epic moments, and a unique visual style with plenty of vivid colour. If you love Zhang's other outings, you should see it – if not, stay away.
House of Flying Daggers (Shi mian mai fu) (2004): Another Zhang Yimou film, with a number of the same elements as Hero, but with a more love–oriented storyline and some unique characters (including a blind dancer), and some visual marvels to behold.
Hero (2002): Beautiful. A martial arts ballet, with stunning slow–motion sequences and wuxia elements that go even beyond the brilliant 'Crouching Tiger' (although the storyline is not as deep or emotional).
Zatoichi (2003): One of my favourite modern–day samurai films, although essentially a reboot of the old 'blind samurai' series, this is an interesting mix of martial arts, drama, and music, with plenty of references to other films and some memorable original moments.

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Tom H’s Film Reviews