The Grave

I really hate to use the term "guilty pleasure" but here, it seems to be fitting. I caught it late one night on HBO or something like that. Anyway, I got into it and missed the ending so I had to order a copy. I'm glad I did. The movie hits that "Tales From the Crypt" feel right on the head. There is not one likeable character in the whole thing. All of the jokes come on time and the black humor is right on target. The Southern atmosphere does its work, giving everything a creepy atmosphere. I enjoyed all of the performances. Anything with Keith David involved usually has it's rewards. His performance in this was fairly brief, but enjoyable. In fact the whole thing was enjoyable and highly entertaining. There is not a dull moment in the whole thing and the plot twists come at a rapid pace. Just be on your toes to catch all of the references and jokes. I's full of 'em.

For a non American, the accents are a bit hard to get used to, but once you do, it's really worth watching. A black comedy with a few delightful twists to keep the audience on its' toes, and to give it a good laugh. It reminded me a little of THE TROUBLE WITH HARRY, and I can't help wondering what Hitchcock would have done with this story. Enjoyable ending.

The Jonus Brothers (actually Jonas Pate) 1st movie; with a script by Mr. Pate, Peter Glatzer, Josh Pate & Michael Wexler (however I have a inclination that Jonas Pate had much more to do with the script that the others); a outstanding group of young actors who would become stars & prime character actors in the next 10 years or so; finally, a soundtrack full of songs that would make T Bone Burnett (the brains behind the Oh Brother soundtrack) proud. On top of that - superior photography, direction, acting, and locations. Jonus has managed to put together a Cohenesque movie that is a worthy match. It really is a 9! Full of humor, plot twist, expected surprises and pure entertainment!

I do have to say this movie almost got passed up. Gabrielle Anwar I haven't seen in awhile along with such others as Josh Charles and Craig Sheffer. Both Charles and Sheffer don't demand millions for a movie as there talent is offered to enjoy and not buy. The movie on the other hand also features Anthony Michael Hall in a good roll. Anthony Michael Hall really doesn't shine in some movies but in this one he showcases his talent perfectly. Now director Pete Hans knows how to work a script and get the best out of it. "The Grave" totally works on all levels. The plot twists, the scenery, the actor's and the dark humor. I do say that the weak of heart and young kids might be frightened by a scene or two but for those who love a tightly written movie, good actor's and dark humor look no further. It feels like a extra long "Tales Of The Crypt" a the last plot twist will open your eyes. Two escaped convict go searching for hidden treasure supposedly buried with a millionaire and pick up some interesting characters along the way. Each actor feeds off each other and gives a stellar performance throughout. A true gem for a long night. A definite buy for my collection.

I'm not going to talk about the movie as far as it's contents because I thought this was a horror movie when I saw the description. I thought it may be a B movie gem... It's not horror.... But it got more laughs outta me than anything in the last few years. Now in 2021 it's the cash grab cgi age so take that as you will. This movie is no where near a classic or masterpiece but it's damn entertaining. There's a review here for two stars and the guy says he didn't even understand the ending. Don't listen to a moron review a movie. This ain't the matrix. The ending was fine and understandable. The movie was good. It's got atmosphere, comedy, great acting, and you are about as clueless as the characters while watching but it works. It's free on amazon. Watch it for a fun ride.