the-cat-chat

[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)

[the-cat-chat]

A throwback for the archive: The Cat Chat Wrapped 2023

[the-cat-chat]

December 28, 2024

Little Women (2019)

An American coming-of-age period drama that chronicles the lives of the March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—in Concord, Massachusetts, during the 19th century.

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

JayBell: I went into this basically knowing nothing except the actors in it. I've never read the book or seen any other adaptations of it. And it was great! It's the perfect movie to end the Christmas season and 2024.

I love the meta-commentary in the movie. The sisters even discuss and debate whether the domestic highs and lows of a family would be interesting enough to people. I could definitely sense the auto-biographical nature as the story unfolds.

Everyone has great performances, but Saoirse Ronan and Florence Pugh are the definite standouts for me (please give Saoirse an Oscar for her work, she's so overdue!!).

There are so many scenes that stick with me. Laura Dern's character's "I'm always angry" conversation, Emma Watson's character's romantic line to her husband (you totally know which one), Florence Pugh's character's speech in the art room, Timmy Chalamet and Saoirse Ronan's characters during the big, sad confession, and of course, Saoirse Ronan's speech to her mom at the end which communicates the overarching theme of the entire story.

I love that they give the past a golden, yellow hue as if the world is bright and beautiful. Alternatively, the present day is all blue cool tones to represent a more harsh, stark adulthood. It's less magical and more realistic. In many ways, this movie is about the nostalgia of youth and childhood.

With that said, I do think they could have done a better job with the characters' age differences from seven years ago to present day. Everyone looks almost exactly identical to their self from seven years ago. Now, it wouldn't have been good to hire different actors or anything, but was there really nothing else they could do? Like Florence Pugh is supposed to be 13 in the past. Sure, she does her part to act less mature, but she still looks much older. I don't know, I guess I expected movie magic or makeup to work miracles? Either way, it's my only gripe for an otherwise amazing movie.

Congratulations to Little Women for being our highest rated movie in 2024 (and our last one for the year)!!

Rating: 8/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: I didn’t even need to watch the movie again to write my review. Bc I’m sorry to say it miggght be a 10/10 for me. But I couldn’t go into 2025 without seeing Timmy cryyyy and I am sorry to reveal that I’m such a sicko but I love the Jo and Laurie scene where she turns him down and he cries. It does break my heart that he looks like such a baby in this. Anyway I think that Little Women is such a good movie and especially for Christmas- not only is it well acted by allllll of these amazing actors, but the story is so good even when it’s just about general domestic things like how the girls behave together. There’s honestly too much to mention like Meg with her husband and the fabric - and the old man and piano and Beth. It’s a hundred little things that make it, not just Jo’s main plot about writing her stories. There’s a lot of different messages(and so many good quotes!!)to be found and they are all really perfect for the Christmas/new years time of year. Especially that despite trying to be your own person- respecting what time we get with those we love ( love of any type) is equally important. I love too how even though it’s sad - it’s hopeful as well- and if you don’t cry at least five times watching it you’re a liar. Just calling it how it is.

Rating: 10/10 Cats 🐈‍⬛

[the-cat-chat]

December 23, 2024

Die Hard (1988)

A New York City police officer tries to save his estranged wife and several others taken hostage by terrorists during a Christmas party at the Nakatomi Plaza in Los Angeles.

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

JayBell: Ah, a true Christmas classic. We've seen many Christmas action movies this season, so why not go to the source?

I think Alan Rickman is my favorite part of this movie, although it is nearly impossible not to hear Snape when he speaks. Bruce Willis does his job well as a one-man army, thankfully not further traumatizing me after Unbreakable/Glass, which I've done my best to scrub from my mind.

The action itself is fine enough. I've seen so many well-choreographed action movies, especially with guns, that none of the action really stands out. But it is fun to watch him run around Home Alone style, taking people out.

Now my biggest gripe is the portrayal of the cops and even the FBI. Why did they make them seem like the most incompetent, idiotic, stupid buffoons to ever exist? I get wanting to let Bruce Willis be the big hero, but I do think they really overdid it. You can make Bruce Willis cool and competent and skilled without dumbing down everyone else. Because it makes it so much more frustrating to watch.

Now, as to the big debate over whether it qualifies as a Christmas movie, I think having the closing song be a Christmas song is enough to put that debate to rest.

Merry Christmas!

Rating: 6/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: Okkkkay I have to admit. I’m pleasantly surprised with how much I liked this movie. I have never been the biggest Bruce Willis fan, and as we know Unbreakable (and its evil counterparts) left me with real trust issues. But I do think this was fun and entertaining. I think it might have had a lot to do with Alan Rickman thooo. Like what an evil villain. And that weird facial hair?!? The randomness of him wanting all their bonds?!? And how he lied to hide their real mission?! Evil. The sidekicks to him leave something to be desired- especially that one that rises like a zombie at the end. But I need to get something off my chest- was it necessary that Bruce Willis be barefoot the whole time? Like who thought that up? Anywhooo. My one grip is with that stupid guy that worked in the office and tried negotiating with Alan Rickman. Like what was he thinking. Oh and the FBI guys?!? And the top cop thinking he knew anything and he totally didn’t. I like that there were a lot of twists and turns from the villains so the movie (while we know our good guy will win) isn’t so predictable as action movies can tend to be. My final thought is that people that argue it’s not a Christmas movie should really get over themselves bc it totally is and if you don’t see that whatttever lossser.

Rating: 7/10 Christmas Cats 🐈

[the-cat-chat]

December 21, 2024

Red One (2024)

When a villain kidnaps Santa Claus from the North Pole, an E.L.F. (Extremely Large and Formidable) operative joins forces with the world's most accomplished tracker to find him and save Christmas.

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

JayBell: Krampus returns! Look, is this movie cheesy? Yes. Is it silly? Yes. But it's Christmas. I feel like so many people were way too harsh on this movie. It has some cool twists on a very familiar "let's save Christmas" plot. We have action, some father-son bonding, buddy cop-esque shenanigans, fun worldbuilding, and Chris Evans.

It's not gonna be a Christmas classic. Some of the acting from the supporting characters could have been better (but honestly who could act with sincerity with some of those silly lines) and the villain could have stronger motivations, but overall, it's a good time. Just what I needed after the Krampus experience.

Rating: 5/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: I’m just starting to sound like a Debbie Downer or Negative Nancy or Grinch or something. But I hate past me for saying ooooh we need to watch this. Truly, I am sorry. I should never be given the power to choose ever again. Why Jaybell puts up with me idk ,never will. I felt my soul leave my body. And if I’ve recovered any since I’m loosing it now recalling this movie. First- the music throughout was straight out of G-force and at least the Guinea Pigs had moves to back it up. It’s way too comical for the random action taking place. And then can we discuss whatever all the creatures at the North Pole are?? Bc I don’t know. And I’m freaked out. The reindeer are allsooo way too large. Never thought very large horse/deer was a fear I had but now I do. And I just wanna say I don’t know how alll these really good actors read this and went with it. I’m sure the moolah had to be amazing. And the rock shrinking and getting bigger. No. The snowmen. Double no. Nick Kroll being possessed. Didn’t need it. What ever the deal with Krampus. No. If I hear krampus one more time in 2024 I’ll cry. It’s just horrific. All of it. Ok you wanna rebrand Santa Claus? Sorry it’s already been done. David Harbor’s santa in Violent Night is it for me.

Rating: 3/10 Grossly Buff Snowmen ⛄️

[the-cat-chat]

December 14, 2024

Carry-On (2024)

A young airline security guard is blackmailed by a mysterious passenger who threatens to smuggle a dangerous package onto a plane on Christmas Eve.

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

JayBell: I was pretty excited for this one, especially after hearing general good buzz about it online. And a Christmas action movie? That's right up my alley. So here's the thing. I've seen a lot of action movies, and I can forgive so many things. I'm not one to particularly nitpick movies about realism and what's possible and blah blah. But for some reason, I can not get over how silly this movie is at times.

I know I know, it's an action movie, shut your brain off, and stop thinking too deeply. It's just that I know action movies can make more sense than this one did. Decisions that are made in this movie, especially by our main character (sorry Taron!) just feel so illogical. I'm not saying I would do amazing in his position, but for a wannabe cop, you'd think things would have gone done differently.

For one, he's just talking to himself at his desk and no one confronts him, he calls and hangs up 911 and the security officer gives the all clear to the police without even asking why he made a 911 call, he leaves his post so many times on the busiest days of the year without people questioning (and running everywhere!), his boss watches him act so bizarre and does nothing, and our main character and bad guy have a full on fight in the luggage belt room and no one notices? It's an airport, I'd be surprised if there's a corner left unmonitored by staff. I have more, but I'm gonna leave it there.

There's just too many plot holes preventing my escapism. And I love to escape, so that's when you know it's bad. It's sad because the idea on paper is great. It has so much potential, but the execution is not great.

P.S. There is nothing particularly Christmas-y about this movie. Yeah, the airport is crowded and there's like a tree up in one of the rooms but that's pretty much it. So if you hate Christmas movies, this one barely qualifies.

Rating: 4.5/10 cats 🐈

Anzie:Now this isn’t totallll Christmas vibes even though it takes place on Christmas - so it technically counts. And I have to say I did really like it. And I know it’s not absolutely perfect- there were times my eyes want to roll out of my head- but for a Netflix movie I found it entertaining and the plot was interesting. And the endddd. Wowzers.

I do think it went on a bit longer than it needed to for the end goal- but it was somehow still fast paced - possibly bc how much they had this poor little tsa guy running through LAX. Legitimately I think he probs ran for at least 10 minutes of this movie. Jason Bateman makes a great evil villain as always but I hate his creepy accomplice.

The acting was all really great- but when it came to the motivation of saving his pregnant gf- what the heck mannn. Bc I get it pretty good motivation but then when he finally gets another phone to call her and she doesn’t answer- whyyyy doesn’t he text her?? But he texts the SoundCloud guy? Alllsoooo unless SoundCloud guys number was all over those flyers- how’d he know it???? Jaybell hits all the other issues like 911 getting a dropped call?? From his cell?? And the main cop boss says it’s fine? Sure Jan. And his boss that’s on him like glue doesn’t think he’s being weird?? When he’s so hesitant to put him on the machine??

Like I said it’s only Christmas adjacent- but I thought it was entertaining enough to spend 2 hours watching …. Unlike some things. *cough* krampus*cough* Anything but Krampus 🥹.

Rating: 6/10 Santas 🎅

[the-cat-chat]

December 13, 2024

Krampus (2015)

When dysfunctional family squabbling causes young Max to lose his festive spirit, it unleashes the wrath of the fearsome demon.

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

JayBell: Happy Friday the 13th! I swear there were so many more Friday the 13ths this year than usual. Unluckily (or luckily? I don't even know any more) there still aren't any Friday the 13th movies for us to watch. And in the spirit of Christmas, we've got holiday horror.

In the beginning, I had hope for this movie. Not high hopes, but hope. Krampus is a perfect setup for a Christmas horror movie, how could it go so wrong? I think what upsets me most about this movie is that Krampus should be targeting naughty or mean or bad kids at Christmas right? Right? Well here we have young Max who is the sweetest kid, and he loses faith at Christmas because of how his family members bully him and how dysfunctional they are. He feels like the wrong target for Krampus. At least make Max a naughty kid at the beginning of the movie so this attack by Krampus and co. feels justified. You could even give him a nice character arc that way too, forcing him to be kind and regret his earlier bad behavior. But no. What is Max's lesson? To not be angry when people pick on him? To sacrifice himself for other peoples' mistakes and wrongdoings?

Plus, the movie introduces so many plot points or character details that go nowhere. For example, we have a stressed marriage due to overworking father, strained relationship between aunt and niece, sisters grown distant due to class differences, etc. But in the end, none of it amounts to anything or progresses the plot or forces character growth. The only growth we get is from the husbands bonding, which is like the least interesting dynamic from the list above.

This movie doesn't know exactly what it wants to be. Like in the beginning, there are some serious issues brought up. It began to feel like a family drama where we tackle some issues. And then it went 180 and became so over the top campy and everything important and serious is dropped off the face of the earth. If you want campy, then just commit to it.

Final gripe: Too. Many. Villains. You can have Krampus and maybe ONE minion. Okay? One. That's it. You can even count all the evil gingerbreads as one if you want. Too many villains dilute the scares in my opinion cause your brain is on overload.

I'm not even gonna talk about the monsters in this movie. No thanks, I've blocked that trauma.

Rating: 3/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: Sooo a Friday the 13th in December is a special holiday. And since we couldn’t find a Friday the 13th movie streaming that we haven’t seen weeee (I mean meeeee stupidly) picked this movie. - Krampus could only be a hallucination that lets you get a glimpse of what a good day in purgatory would look like.

I ’m gonna start with the grossness of Krampus. The eyes, the tongue, the teeth, the fingers. And his minions. I don’t wanna talk about the Jack in the Box. But what the actual actuallll. That mouth. The gingies with their shivs. The bird doll thing. The bear. The sounds. The tongues. Whyyy so many tongues?!?! The shrieking screeches. The jingling. Oh and the elves. Whhhy!?!? The giggles. Ugggg.

And the plot. First, the cousins and other family. Wow. And this poor kid. All he wanted was his family to not be dysfunctional and have a good Christmas. Is that too much to ask? I don’t think so. I feel for him. Butttt nooooo Krampus had to come anyway. Why? Like he wasn’t bad - he was upset - soooo why punish him. I really lost the plot beyond just all the gross characters bc none of it makes sense. Honestly, I was peeved at the end. So stupid. All that suffering. It’s CHRISTMAS!!!! Whyyyyy can’t the stupid new Grinch be out or why isn’t there a Christmas Friday the 13th?? There’s 500 other versions!!! Buttttt nooo it’s just the stupid gross Krampus movie. I need therapy now more than ever.

Rating:-10/10 Black Christmas Cats 🐈‍⬛

[the-cat-chat]

December 7, 2024

A Boy Called Christmas (2021)

An ordinary young boy called Nikolas sets out on an extraordinary adventure into the snowy north.

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

JayBell: I have to admit I went into this movie thinking it was fully animated and having no clue what it was about. Anyways, I appreciate a more unique kind of Christmas movie, cause wow is that hard to do. Christmas movies are comforting because of their predictability and familiarity in plot and conflict, but it's nice to branch out a little a watch something more unexpected.

There are some surprising adult-ish themes in this movie: loss of a parent, abuse and mistreatment, starvation, discrimination, and even slavery. At one point, our main character is basically Cinderella.

As a whole, I enjoyed this one. I particularly like the reveal in the end of Aunt Ruth (RIP Maggie Smith). My one major critique is the entire plotline about the not-quite-evil-but-still-mean leader of the elves and how it connects to our main boy's mother. It just feels kind of clunky the way it is covered in the movie and when the truth about his mother comes out and everything.

Oh, and also how is it possible that Nikolas NEVER ate on his journey to the elves. I have to admit that it is distracting to constantly be thinking that on his long journey to Elfheim, convinced that he had to already be dead due to starvation.

Rating: 6.5/10 cats 🐈

Anzie: I jut want to start out by saying the more I think about this movie the more I think I dreamed it. And the best part of it is the littleeeee mouse. Like for reallzzz. I want a talking mouse friend.

I do appreciate that it is very story like and dream like- and it’s great on the surface but I have definite problems with the movie. First, I never trusted the dad. Second, the aunt - feeding him the turnip doll. What the fluff man. Wowzers. That’s some trauma he immediately buried too quickly. Third, what’s the elf lady’s problem??? Like so mean bc the human friend had to leave??? But let’s never think the next human that CAN ALSO find the elves might be her son??? Like you’d maybe sense this with your elf magic? Idk. And he’s magic?? How? But they’d def sense that riggght? He had a talking mouse and is riding a reindeer???? I’d be asking questions.

I really didn’t like the crazed pixie but liked that in the end it ended up being Maggie Smith’s character. Which lead to more questions about aging?? And are these kids Santa’s great great whatever’s?

Toooo the boy named Christmas- what’s that about bc that’s a reallll bad nickname. I wish they explained it more? Or maybe they did?

End verdict: Stephen Merchant as a talking mouse is truly what the magic of Christmas is about. And you haven’t lived if you haven’t seen or heard his witty little mouse quips, but like everything in life there is a small cost to pay and that might be watching a sad little red headed boy eat his turnip doll.

* alsoooo how’d that doll make it that long with out rotting?? Bc surely it would’ve? Right? And he ate it?!?!?

Rating: 5/10 Mousies 🐭