Turner & Hooch, by Albert W. Vogt III
You would not believe how many dog related films have been made. Or maybe you would believe it. I do not know. I do not know you. Or maybe I do? Who knows? Okay, let us back away from the hypothetical ledge (in more ways than one), and get back to dog films. Yes, nothing says cinematic gold like having a pooch… Read more “Turner & Hooch, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Rookie of the Year, by Albert W. Vogt III
The beginning of the baseball season always brings with it renewed hope. This is particularly true for us fans of the Chicago Cubs. There are a number of clichés that have grown up around the team. For the longest time, and their rivals will no doubt still apply this sobriquet, they were the “Lovable Losers.” I like to think… Read more “Rookie of the Year, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Bubble, by Albert W. Vogt III
When will the pandemic end? Who knows? God does, though some things are best left to His knowledge. I know, we all would like to have a better idea of the bigger picture. God put in us a desire to understand past, present, and future. Like Faith, some things are unknowable. We can grasp and lunge for them all we want,… Read more “The Bubble, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Date Night, by Albert W. Vogt III
I have never married, though I have been in a few long-lasting relationships. There is a sort of fortune cookie saying from a movie called Hope Floats (1998) about living life that I believe can be applied to either dating situations or marriages: beginnings are scary, endings are sad, but it is what is in the middle that… Read more “Date Night, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, by Albert W. Vogt III
There was a time when part of Disney’s Hollywood Studios was dedicated to a little film called Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989). In fact, the park opened the same year as the movie, originally as Disney’s MGM Studios. In case you are wondering, MGM stands for Metro-Goldwyn Mayer. At any rate, one of the early attractions at the… Read more “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Gunpowder Milkshake, by Albert W. Vogt III
Whenever my broadcast partner for Down and Out Reviews, the podcast I do with Isaac (please also check out our YouTube channel Oh Man Disney), says he is going to watch a movie on Netflix, that means it is going to be our next topic of conversation. Luckily, as he was stumbling over the title about which… Read more “Gunpowder Milkshake, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows, by Albert W. Vogt III
You can make quite the list of people who have played Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective Sherlock Holmes. Everyone from Basil Rathbone (ever hear of him?) to Will Ferrell, there have been well known comedians and child actors of both sexes who have filled the part. The two best ones of late have been Benedict Cumberbatch… Read more “Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Muppet Movie, by Albert W. Vogt III
You have to hand it to Jim Henson, the guy was a genius. Who would have thought that puppets could become as recognizable characters as has his Muppets. I almost hate to say this, but what are essentially toys have gotten to the point where they are seen as real as you and I. That is the way… Read more “The Muppet Movie, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Heat, by Albert W. Vogt III
Recently, I saw The Lost City, which starred Sandra Bullock. Seeing her in a comedy/action film reminded me of a different film of hers that I enjoy called The Heat (2013). My, how things have changed since 2013. Of course, there are a lot of comparisons between the two films, other than the presence of Sandra Bullock. As such, it is not… Read more “The Heat, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Everything Everywhere All at Once, by Albert W. Vogt III
What is to follow is yours truly attempting to describe the impossible. The first thing to say about this particular brand of impossible is that it is called Everything Everywhere All at Once. If you read that title as a sentence, this too is impossible, unless you are God. This will factor into the review later, so keep this… Read more “Everything Everywhere All at Once, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, by Cameron J. Czaja
Whether you love or hate him, one can’t deny that Nicolas Case has made a major impact in Hollywood throughout his career. From his very eccentric acting style to internet memes that have flooded social media, he has been somewhat of a cultural icon that I’m embracing even if I’m not the biggest fan of… Read more “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, by Cameron J. Czaja”
Kick Ass 2, by Albert W. Vogt III
We should stop and appreciate when a sequel does well. As has been documented a number of times on The Legionnaire, this is so rarely the case. A big reason for these failures is expectations. When a follow-up, no matter how or when it is made, does not check all the boxes people want from it, people tend to… Read more “Kick Ass 2, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Kick Ass, by Albert W. Vogt III
You do not have to be an ardent cinephile to notice that we are neck-deep these days in superhero movies. This is true now, and it was true in 2010 when Kick Ass premiered. What made the movie special then was that we were not quite at the flood stage we are today. The Marvel phases were just getting cranked… Read more “Kick Ass, by Albert W. Vogt III”
40 Days and 40 Nights, by Albert W. Vogt III
There is a movie that has brief Catholic elements in it, sometimes troubling ones, but is unintentionally a great lesson for the faithful. It is 40 Days and 40 Nights (2002). Since this is Lent (and hopefully I get this posted during this time), it is also a handy movie to watch. The film is all about sex, or more… Read more “40 Days and 40 Nights, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, by Albert W. Vogt III
In my review of Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (2009), I discussed how I had no intention of seeing it. Basically, I saw it on Disney+, shrugged my shoulders, and said, “meh,” whatever. And aside from my annoyance with Amelia Earhart (Amy Adams), it is a thoroughly “whatever” movie. Perhaps there is some jadedness on my part,… Read more “Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian, by Albert W. Vogt III
I had no desire to see Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (2009). The original Night at the Museum (2006), was fine. Set at the American Museum of Natural History, it had some fun with the various collections of old stuff stored at the museum. You know the kinds of things of which I speak, right? Items that are interesting usually… Read more “Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Hangover, by Albert W. Vogt III
I need to go to the movies more often with my sister. Most of the films that we have seen in the past have been comedies. She is among those who are close to me that like to take me to such productions to see me laugh. When my chuckles get going, I can carry on with a… Read more “The Hangover, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Men Black II, by Albert W. Vogt III
Here we go with another sequel. By the way, I am writing this review of Men in Black II (2002) in the wake of the post-Will Smith slapping of Chris Rock incident at the Oscars, unlike when I wrote about Men in Black (1997). I am not sure that matters at all, but, you know, it is a thing that happened,… Read more “Men Black II, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Men in Black, by Albert W. Vogt III
For those who do not remember this fact, before Will Smith became the film star that he is today, he first had a successful run as a musician. He then translated that success into a role on the hit television show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (1990-1996). This is when people seem to begin to remember him. It is… Read more “Men in Black, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Lost City (2022), by Albert W. Vogt III
Before walking into the theater to see The Lost City (2022), my thought was: there is no way this is the only film that has had this title. Surely, there is another motion picture out there that has utilized this phrase. As it turns out, I was right. My first instinct was that there would be some corny, 1930s action… Read more “The Lost City (2022), by Albert W. Vogt III”
Kingsman: The Golden Circle, by Albert W. Vogt III
There are the good sequels, and there are the bad sequels. Kingsman: The Golden Circle (2017) is in the latter of those categories. This was a disappointment to me because I felt like they had fun with the first installment in the franchise. All the subsequent attempts have paled in comparison, to put it mildly. I knew I was in… Read more “Kingsman: The Golden Circle, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Kingsman: The Secret Service, by Albert W. Vogt III
When I first saw Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014), it was my introduction to star Taron Egerton. Given the material and tone of the film, I assumed he would go on to be an action star. Many of his films since have been of that variety, including the sequel, Kingsman: The Golden Circle (2017), and the hilariously bad Robin Hood (2018). I would not… Read more “Kingsman: The Secret Service, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Caddyshack, by Albert W. Vogt III
I will undoubtedly get crushed for this one, but cross another one off the list of seemingly legendary movies that I had not seen until just recently. Then again, I feel like popular culture, or at least the version of it with which I interact, is full of enough references to Caddyshack (1980) that I had viewed it… Read more “Caddyshack, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Happy Death Day 2U, by Albert W. Vogt III
Shame on me for assuming that, like most sequels, Happy Death Day 2U (2019) was going to be bad. What is even more remarkable is that it is just as good as its predecessor, 2017’s Happy Death Day, while also explaining something about the first that went by the board. In the original, we never learn why it is that… Read more “Happy Death Day 2U, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Happy Death Day, by Albert W. Vogt III
Usually, fewer genres of films get me uninterested faster than slasher films. I do not understand their popularity, and my problems have been documented in my reviews of the Scream franchise. I do get the excitement of facing life-or-death situations. Actions movies are replete with scenarios that viewers imagine themselves in, wondering how they would handle it. When it comes to… Read more “Happy Death Day, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Zootopia, by Albert W. Vogt III
When Zootopia (2016) came out, it was at the beginning of the strange Disney odyssey that I have been on for the past six years. It started with an ex-girlfriend convincing me to get an annual pass, and has now, er . . . blossomed to where I am part of a duo that has a YouTube channel… Read more “Zootopia, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Kung Pow: Enter the Fist, by Albert W. Vogt III
Raise your hand if there is a movie that most people find dumb, but you cannot help enjoying. If you did not raise your hand (other than the fact that you are reading this alone and I have no way of knowing whether or not you did so), then I might question your honesty. Or at least… Read more “Kung Pow: Enter the Fist, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Adam Project, by Albert W. Vogt III
What do you get when you cross Back to the Future (1985) with Deadpool (2016), and sprinkle in a little Stranger Things (2016-present) flavor? You get The Adam Project. Given that I rarely watch Netflix other than to go on and find a movie that I might want to watch, I had little idea as to the content of this film. Strike that, I… Read more “The Adam Project, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Turning Red, by Albert W. Vogt III
I was a little disappointed that Turning Red did not play in any theater near me. It worked out well with my schedule for the weekend, but I do love going to the cinema. I have documented this elsewhere, and honestly, I could have made it work. I was surprised, too, to not see it among the offerings this weekend. Instead,… Read more “Turning Red, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Wreck-It Ralph, by Albert W. Vogt III
The first time I saw Wreck-It Ralph (2012), it was during my time working as a lifeguard for the city of St. Pete Beach. By the way, I worked at a pool, not the beach. During the summers, our facility hosted a movie night. For a film buff like me, you would think these evenings would be exciting. Several factors mitigated… Read more “Wreck-It Ralph, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Marry Me, by Cameron J. Czaja
For those who were hoping for a review of the latest romantic comedy Marry Me from The Legionnaire, then consider yourself lucky. The reason I’m saying that is because as a depressingly single individual, I had no interest in seeing a film about two people slowly falling in love. Also, even if I really wanted to see it,… Read more “Marry Me, by Cameron J. Czaja”
Ghostbusters II, by Albert W. Vogt III
There are few more iconic films than Ghostbusters (1984). Still, I wonder if it would have been as much of a smash-hit if John Belushi had still been alive to fill the role of the wise-cracking Peter Venkman instead of Bill Murray. Not that it would have made a huge difference to me personally as they are both Chicago… Read more “Ghostbusters II, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Journey 2: The Mysterious Island, by Albert W. Vogt III
What do you get when you are watching your adolescent nieces and you tell them to pick the movie for the evening? You get Journey 2: The Mysterious Island (2012). You. Get. Journey 2: The Mysterious Island. Actually, I realized something while writing the title for this movie: it can also be read as a sentence. It is not much, but it is… Read more “Journey 2: The Mysterious Island, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Seven Year Itch, by Albert W. Vogt III
One of the more iconic moments in cinematic history features Marilyn Monroe in an alluring white dress standing over a subway vent, the breeze of a passing underground train sending the fabric aflutter. When I was studying for my Ph.D. at Loyola University Chicago, there was a larger-than-life statue of this scene on Michigan Avenue near… Read more “The Seven Year Itch, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Dog, by Albert W. Vogt III
When Cameron told me he wanted to review Uncharted this past weekend, I initially thought I was getting the short end of the stick. The only other movie I knew of that was premiering was Dog. My experience with movies with animals and humans as co-stars is limited, and not good. Usually, they have a wacky premise with predictable, slapstick jokes. I… Read more “Dog, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Zombieland, by Albert W. Vogt III
My quest for movies to review increasingly takes me into the archives of The Legionnaire. As the collection nears the 1,000 mark, I sometimes have difficulty remembering which films I covered. That is the main reason why I recently did Shaun of the Dead (2004). There are times when I think of movies and wonder what I thought about them, which… Read more “Zombieland, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Jackass Forever, by Cameron J. Czaja
Hi my name is Cameron J. Czaja and welcome to The Legionnaire. In this review I will be talking the latest installment in the Jackass film series, Jackass Forever, hence why I introduced myself in this review. If you’re familiar with the franchise, then you know what I’m talking about. If you’re not, then oh boy. Let me give… Read more “Jackass Forever, by Cameron J. Czaja”
Shaun of the Dead, by Albert W. Vogt III
Before there was The Walking Dead (2010-present), or even a Zombieland (2009), there was Shaun of the Dead (2004). It premiered in an era when zombie films and television shows still took the notion of reanimated corpses seriously. I cannot think of any other examples before 2004 with a light-hearted take on the sub-genre. Given the success of Shaun of the Dead, one can make… Read more “Shaun of the Dead, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The World’s End, by Albert W. Vogt III
With my birthday last weekend conveniently falling on a Friday, I thought it would be nice if I shared on The Legionnaire’s various social media platforms my top three movies. Hence, the day of my birthday I shared Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980); my second favorite, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010), on Saturday; and on… Read more “The World’s End, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Bottle Rocket, by Albert W. Vogt III
Finally, I have come to the end of the Wes Anderson movie catalog. By coming to the end, I have also come to the beginning. Today’s film is his first, Bottle Rocket (1996). If you know what you are looking for, there is a great deal in it that you will see (if, for some reason, you decide to see… Read more “Bottle Rocket, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, by Albert W. Vogt III
If there is a better example of a movie you see one way as a kid, and another as an adult, than Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971), I am unaware of it. It is weird to think about now, but it was only nine years old when I was born. Think back to some of the movies… Read more “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Isle of Dogs, by Albert W. Vogt III
I am writing this review on my birthday. I know, what a nerd. One of the joys of a birthday, if not being productive, is getting love and support from friends and family. One of the phone calls I got this morning are from two of my best friends, a husband and wife duo that I helped get… Read more “Isle of Dogs, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Fantastic Mr. Fox, by Albert W. Vogt III
If you have been following along with these reviews of Wes Anderson films, you will note a few repeated themes. For this Catholic, the most troubling of these is when there are brief shots of sexual acts. He creates these beautiful scenes with pleasing color palettes, innovative camera placements and movements, and the positioning of characters in… Read more “Fantastic Mr. Fox, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Darjeeling Limited, by Albert W. Vogt III
The old man I live with is not a fan of Wes Anderson. Perhaps that is unfair. It is difficult to pin down what the guy likes and dislikes because he consumes everything. As a retiree extraordinaire, he has nothing but time to see, well, everything. And that is what he does. I have witnessed him roundly denounce a show… Read more “The Darjeeling Limited, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, by Albert W. Vogt III
When I was studying for my Master’s degree in Florida Studies (yes, there is such a thing), I took a course on Florida Rivers. Again, totally real. It happened. I even have a book to prove it. It was a yearlong, intensive study of the winding bodies of water that are the beating heart of the Sunshine State. For the… Read more “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Rushmore, by Albert W. Vogt III
I wonder about Wes Anderson. While talking about other films that he has directed, I admitted to being charmed by his films. They have a recognizable style, and I like it. It is sort of like fashion. When you have a look that you are into and seems to fit you, I see no reason to change it. This applies… Read more “Rushmore, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Royal Tenenbaums, by Albert W. Vogt III
Since watching The French Dispatch (2021), I have given myself the side quest of viewing every Wes Anderson film. Most of his recent work I have already seen. This means going back to the beginning. In the case of The Royal Tenenbaums (2001), it is almost the beginning. I have vague recollections of seeing previews for it in the theaters long ago and… Read more “The Royal Tenenbaums, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Don’t Look Up, by Cameron J. Czaja
When it comes to comedy directors in Hollywood, Adam McKay is definitely one of the oddest ones out there, but not in a bad way . . . more or less. For those who aren’t familiar with that director, he’s the man responsible for giving us comedy films such as Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy… Read more “Don’t Look Up, by Cameron J. Czaja”
French Kiss, Albert W. Vogt III
In my review of The Bourne Identity (2002), I mentioned that, with nothing to see of note at the theater this past weekend, my girlfriend and I chose from her DVD collection. The Matt Damon action thriller was the first choice. The other, French Kiss (1995), is a film that she has been talking about since we started dating. This comes with… Read more “French Kiss, Albert W. Vogt III”
The French Dispatch, by Albert W. Vogt III
When Cameron and I did our 2021 year in review video, one of the movies mentioned was The French Dispatch (2021). This triggered a slight rabbit hole discussion of other films directed by Wes Anderson, some of which I enjoy quite a lot like Moonrise Kingdom (2012) and The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014). In some respects, if you have seen one Wes Anderson… Read more “The French Dispatch, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Cool Runnings, by Albert W. Vogt III
There are some films that, frankly, I do not understand how they have such large followings. Cool Runnings (1993) is in that strange cinematic category. It is not that it is undeserving of a fandom. It is a great story that well combines comedic and dramatic elements. More specifically, it is an underdog tale, and people love their underdogs. It is… Read more “Cool Runnings, by Albert W. Vogt III”
21 Jump Street, by Albert W. Vogt III
Who among us does not have certain things we once thought funny, but do not laugh at anymore? I know I do. While I will admit to still chuckling at times to inappropriate humor, for the most part I will endure potty jokes (I am already running out of synonyms) with a stone face. In this same vein,… Read more “21 Jump Street, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Ocean’s Thirteen, by Albert W. Vogt III
If Hollywood can make a trilogy out of a movie, they will. Actually, they will make as many sequels as they feel will make money for them, no matter how dumb anyone believes a story to be. I only saw one of the Saw movies, the third one I think, but that was enough to know how ridiculous they… Read more “Ocean’s Thirteen, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Ocean’s Twelve, by Albert W. Vogt III
There are times when if you ruin the end of the movie, it will make the rest of it make sense. One could make that argument for The Sixth Sense (1999). There are those who like big reveals at the end of a film. I am one of them. Yet, if you have knowledge of the conclusion, you can go back… Read more “Ocean’s Twelve, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Ocean’s Eleven, by Albert W. Vogt III
Unwittingly, I seem to make controversial statements when it comes to films. For instance, I like all the installments in the Ocean’s franchise. Many look at the first, Ocean’s Eleven (2001), as the best, and dismiss the rest as pale imitations thereof. For me, there is enough of a difference between them all for them each to stand on their own. Granted, it… Read more “Ocean’s Eleven, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Plains, Trains and Automobiles, by Albert W. Vogt III
Such are my grammar instincts that when I write the title of today’s film, Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987), I have to fight my urge to add the Oxford comma. This is not intended to be a treatise on the proper place to put the mark meant to denote pauses in sentences or separate lists. Yet, my annoyance does… Read more “Plains, Trains and Automobiles, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Gremlins, by Albert W. Vogt III
For whatever reason, I never thought of Gremlins (1984) as being a Christmas movie. In fact, I watched it at the end of my seasonal run thinking it would be a good movie to transition back into non-holiday fare. It had been years since I had seen it. Indeed, I cannot remember the last time I viewed it before recently. What… Read more “Gremlins, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Noelle, by Albert W. Vogt III
Most Christmas movies I assume will be absolute garbage. Shame on me for making such assumptions. I forget which review I wrote this in because I have seen so many Christmas movies lately, but somewhere I made the claim that most holiday films are cheap money grabs. If I have not made this point already, I am making… Read more “Noelle, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Love Hard, by Albert W. Vogt III
In my quest to watch as many Christmas movies as possible in this eponymous season, I seem to be running out of the big ones. Let me check: It’s a Wonderful Life (1946), done; Miracle on 34th Street (1947), yes; A Christmas Story (1983), uh-huh; The Santa Clause (1994), ho-ho-ho; Elf (2003), you betcha. There are others, of course, but this a good representation of some of… Read more “Love Hard, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Muppet Christmas Carol, by Albert W. Vogt III
One of the first live stage productions I remember seeing is Charles Dicken’s A Christmas Carol (1843). What a lot of people do not seem to realize about this classic piece of Victorian literature is that it was originally published as a novella, not a play. Of course, it was soon adapted for the stage, but not by its… Read more “The Muppet Christmas Carol, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Jingle All the Way, by Albert W. Vogt III
This might sound like a crazy statement to make, but Arnold Schwarzenegger is not a bad actor. Granted, the overwhelming majority of the films he has starred in have been on the action variety. I do not think he would necessarily complain about the track of his career. He has appeared in some of the most iconic action… Read more “Jingle All the Way, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Santa Clause, by Albert W. Vogt III
Tim Allen has had an interesting career. The vehicle that earned him early fame, of course, was the hit television show Home Improvement. It was part of the American Broadcasting Company’s (ABC) classic Thank God Its Friday (TGIF) line-up that was ratings gold during the 1990s. He has also been a large part of a number of projects that… Read more “The Santa Clause, by Albert W. Vogt III”
A Christmas Story, by Albert W. Vogt III
I have never understood why people go on and on about A Christmas Story (1983) like it is the Citizen Kane (1941) of holiday movies. I thought this despite having never seen it, until recently. It is one of those films, though, that everyone seems to know without having seen it. The tongue stuck to a metal pole on a winter’s day,… Read more “A Christmas Story, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Elf, by Albert W. Vogt III
People love Elf (2003). I think it is okay. I do not hate it. I am just not as into it as others. I will watch it if it is on, but nor am I seeking it out when casting about for something to watch. Admittedly, I own a digital copy of it. I bought it to honor people that I have dated… Read more “Elf, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, by Albert W. Vogt III
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992) seems to defy many conventions. Sequels are always tricky. If a film enjoys even the most modest of success, its fans start clamoring for a follow-up. For all the uproar, these usually fail to satisfy, and there are a couple reasons why this happens. First, oftentimes part two is compared, for better… Read more “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Home Alone, by Albert W. Vogt III
When it comes to certain movies, one has to be careful about what you say about them. With how many people I know that love this film, Home Alone (1990) is one of them. I get it, or at least I do now. The whole world gets it. The many sequels and versions of this film have been made are a… Read more “Home Alone, by Albert W. Vogt III”
My Cousin Vinny, by Albert W. Vogt III
Sometimes there are movies that you are aware of, know about by reputation as being beloved by many, and yet you do not get why everyone likes them despite you having never seen them. My Cousin Vinny (1992) is one such specific example. I vaguely remember when it came out when I was a youngster, and not being… Read more “My Cousin Vinny, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Beetlejuice, by Albert W. Vogt III
After seeing Catherine O’Hara in so many of my favorite mockumentaries, and the Home Alone films, I began thinking about where else I had seen her. It was not long before my memory alighted on Beetlejuice (1988). She is by no means the star of this late 1980s classic. It is also the film that probably gave rise to director Tim Burton’s… Read more “Beetlejuice, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Snatch, by Albert W. Vogt III
There was a time when the director of Snatch (2000), Guy Ritchie, was known for gritty, semi-comedic crime films. Today’s film is one of them. However, it and Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels (1998), which also launched Jason Statham’s career, at some point transcended their cult classic status. What that meant for Guy Ritchie is that he entered the pantheon of… Read more “Snatch, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Encanto, by Albert W. Vogt III
There was somewhat of a role reversal for The Legionnaire this past weekend. Usually, Cameron would be the one to see the animated films given my distaste for them. Yet, the past few days had another unusual twist in terms of my typical movie going experience: company. Under normal circumstances, I will look forward to seeing a movie like House of… Read more “Encanto, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Be Cool, by Albert W. Vogt III
Ah, sequels. There are those who, when they see a movie they like, they immediately want a follow up to the story. Then there are others, often self-styled movie snobs, who think a part two ruins the aesthetics of its predecessor. I get it. I am not sure on which side of the fence I fall. If there is a… Read more “Be Cool, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Get Shorty, by Albert W. Vogt III
Once in a while, when in search of inspiration, I will go scrolling through the various offerings on the streaming services to which I subscribe. More often than not, doing so turns up a bunch of titles that I have zero interest in viewing, unless suggested by you, my loyal readers. Sometimes, I will notice a film… Read more “Get Shorty, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Movie, by Albert W. Vogt III
How does one explain Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Movie (1996)? It is a bona fide film, with a big-time production studio, release, and everything else you would expect from Hollywood. Such a description alone, though, would be quite misleading. The movie is based on a television show of the same name (before the colon) that began in the late… Read more “Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Movie, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Black Dynamite, by Albert W. Vogt III
Full disclosure up front: I do not recommend Black Dynamite (2009). For starters, unless you are familiar with the 1970s so-called “blacksploitation” films it spoofs, you might be a bit lost. Related to that, it relies heavily on you understanding the racial stereotypes it underscores to make its point. If you watch this without a working knowledge of these things,… Read more “Black Dynamite, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Ghostbusters: Afterlife, by Cameron J. Czaja
Huge confession, I actually have never seen the original Ghostbusters (1984), or the 1989 sequel, from beginning to end, which is something that I’m embarrassed to admit. That’s not to say that I have no clue as to what they are about thanks to watching bits and pieces of it via television airings and YouTube videos. I’m… Read more “Ghostbusters: Afterlife, by Cameron J. Czaja”
Robin Hood: Men in Tights, by Albert W. Vogt III
Thank God for Mel Brooks. Still, one might wonder why there would be a need to spoof Robin Hood movies. Was it because shortly before the 1993 release of Robin Hood: Men in Tights, there had been two films released about the subject? Then again, did anyone (save for myself, unfortunately, though only recently) see the British version? I am… Read more “Robin Hood: Men in Tights, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Red Notice, by Albert W. Vogt III
After a strong run of theatrical releases since the summer ended, this past weekend presented a surprising lull. It was something I somewhat anticipated a week previously when I noticed that Ghostbusters: Afterlife and King Richard were coming out on the same weekend, that being the next one. My surprise came when I looked over the offerings this past weekend and… Read more “Red Notice, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Producers (1967), by Albert W. Vogt III
Sometimes you have to make fun of history. For a historian, I do this more than most of my colleagues. It may not be the most professional thing to do, but every once in a while you have to let loose. The past can be deadly serious, particularly World War II. Why do I bring up World War II? Because… Read more “The Producers (1967), by Albert W. Vogt III”
National Lampoon’s Animal House, by Albert W. Vogt III
What I am about to do is put several disclaimers in front of this review of National Lampoon’s Animal House (1978). First, though I have seen it before, it was suggested by a friend. Secondly, I am partial to movies starring John Belushi. My favorite is, of course, The Blues Brothers (1980), a film I put on whenever I am feeling heartsick… Read more “National Lampoon’s Animal House, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Toy Story, by Albert W. Vogt III
Have you ever felt like a monster for not liking a certain movie? The reverence with which people talk about Toy Story (1995) makes it seem like it could rival some of Hollywood’s all-time greats. I suppose there are those out there who would make that exact argument. I am not among that group. While I will admit to being… Read more “Toy Story, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Tangled, by Albert W. Vogt III
One thing I must hand to Disney for: their movies are usually short and to the point, even the musicals. Lately, I find myself pressed for time in the evening. Part of this is due to my desire to get back to watching Downton Abbey for the third time through, and also owing to an increasingly busy schedule. Downton Abbey is… Read more “Tangled, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Young Frankenstein, by Albert W. Vogt III
The first thing you notice about Young Frankenstein (1974) is that it is a throwback. If you are not familiar with how Mel Brooks went about making films, you might not fully grasp what is going on right away. You could take it for a classic horror movie of the 1930s, the kind of flick that used to get… Read more “Young Frankenstein, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Paper Tigers, by Albert W. Vogt III
Time to fill in a few more details of my past that I have hinted at in other reviews, namely my experience with kung fu. After I completed my undergraduate studies, I moved back to Illinois to live with my aunt and await acceptance into the schools there to which I applied. While up there, I found… Read more “Paper Tigers, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Princess Bride, by Albert W. Vogt III
There is an inordinate amount of people who love The Princess Bride (1987). Most people I know enjoy it. It has been referenced in a number of other shows and movies. My favorite sitcom of all time, Parks and Recreation, has an episode where Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) and Ben Wyatt (Adam Scott) dress for Halloween as The Princess Bride’s couple, respectively… Read more “The Princess Bride, by Albert W. Vogt III”
A Mighty Wind, by Albert W. Vogt III
Time to return to the zany world of faux documentaries, particularly from the minds of Christopher Guest, Eugene Levy, and company. I already reviewed one of their classics, Best in Show (2000), so take a look at that article in order to get the gist of what is going on in these films. In short, they are movies presented… Read more “A Mighty Wind, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Almost Famous, by Albert W. Vogt III
My original thought for The Legionnaire was merely to post a review a week, taking on whatever I thought would be the most popular new release every weekend. Not long after doing so it became apparent that sometimes there is more than one film that captures the public’s attention at any one time. Hence, along came Cameron to give… Read more “Almost Famous, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Pootie Tang, by Albert W. Vogt III
What are some movies, the more obscure the better, with which you are familiar and have yet to see? Is that too specific of a question, perhaps? I am simply searching for a way to back into the subject that is the improbable film Pootie Tang (2001), a film that I knew a lot about but still had… Read more “Pootie Tang, by Albert W. Vogt III”
D3: The Mighty Ducks, by Albert W. Vogt III
This is how I imagine the conversation between Emilio Estevez and Disney went in order to get him to reprise his role as Gordon Bombay one more time for D3: The Mighty Ducks (1996). Disney: Hey, Emilio, want to make it a trilogy? Emilio: Are you kidding me? Did anyone in your studios watch the second one of these turkeys? Disney:… Read more “D3: The Mighty Ducks, by Albert W. Vogt III”
D2: The Mighty Ducks, by Albert W. Vogt III
When The Mighty Ducks (1992) ended, you had a nice, neat little bow placed on a classic underdog sports story. A band of misfit kids from Minneapolis-St. Paul and surrounding environs learn to become a team for a coach who learns that there is more to life than just winning. Since the film enjoyed a modicum of success, the… Read more “D2: The Mighty Ducks, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Mighty Ducks, by Albert W. Vogt III
One of my father’s unspoken regrets is that I never became the skater he was when he was younger. Growing up in the more rural parts of the Chicago suburbs, one of the winter pastimes for him and his peers was playing hockey. Anywhere there was enough solid ice (and sometimes not so solid), there they would… Read more “The Mighty Ducks, by Albert W. Vogt III”
10 Things I Hate About You, by Albert W. Vogt III
Poor William Shakespeare. Or perhaps I should be offering him congratulations? The long dead, but still arguably the most famous author in the world, wrote some of the most famous lines ever. If you were to look up the etymology of many of the most often used clichés in the English language, you can trace many of them… Read more “10 Things I Hate About You, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Tank Girl, by Albert W. Vogt III
We all have certain films that are most people do not like, but for some reason strike our fancy. Some of them are ones no one else has heard of or seen. I call them guilty pleasures. One of these for me is Bulletproof Monk (2003). I reviewed that one already, but as a refresher, one of the factors in why… Read more “Tank Girl, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Bringing Up Baby, by Albert W. Vogt III
When I recently posted my review of Arsenic and Old Lace (1944), I made what I thought might be the bold claim that Cary Grant’s comedic roles are better than his dramatic ones. Not that he was not a good actor all around. I simply like him better when he is being funny instead of serious. However you, my dear… Read more “Bringing Up Baby, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Being There, by Albert W. Vogt III
Twice have I seen Being There (1979), and twice have I not enjoyed the experience. I do not get it. Usually, when I see a movie that features a protagonist with a lack of brain power, I find them entertaining or funny, or both. Most times, that character, if they are the main one, will have some moment where they… Read more “Being There, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Hot Fuzz, by Albert W. Vogt III
After the onslaught of seeing five Highlander movies in consecutive nights, I needed something to cleanse the palate. Why not turn to my favorite director, Edgar Wright? So far, I have been rationing his films on The Legionnaire like I am stranded on a lifeboat in the middle of the ocean, and they are the sustenance to keep me going. If nothing… Read more “Hot Fuzz, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Airplane!, by Albert W. Vogt III
It is hard to describe comedies. As you read the synopsis of Airplane! (1980) to follow, you could get the impression that it is an action-thriller. It has all the hallmarks of a more serious flick. Flying by itself is fraught with potential dangers, even after over a century of man taking to the skies, and in the best of… Read more “Airplane!, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Hope Floats, by Albert W. Vogt III
I am a sentimental fool. Such a life can be a double edge sword. Cutting one way, it means that you are pleasant and thoughtful towards others. Cutting the other, you can get trapped in a pit of nostalgic sadness. Being this kind of person also makes me prone to the wiles of certain types of films. I do not… Read more “Hope Floats, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Sing, by Albert W. Vogt III
With the imminent release of Sing 2, my sister recently suggested that I take my nieces to see it. It is part of the reason she put Sing (2016) on my suggestion list on social media. I remember previews for the original. Nothing about it made me think that I must see it. It is animated and basically a musical. Well, kind of,… Read more “Sing, by Albert W. Vogt III”
Office Space, by Albert W. Vogt III
At the moment, I cannot remember the comedy I recently watched that I thought was hilarious as a young person, but as a forty-something I now find tedious and uncomfortable. Either way, it should not come as a surprise that such a thing could happen. Our tastes change as we mature. It is inevitable, like death and taxes. As… Read more “Office Space, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Family Stone, by Albert W. Vogt III
I never enjoyed Sex in the City. That was a fact before I began practicing the Catholic Faith. That statement was not intended to be sexist, either. It was not the thing for this guy, at any rate. It is more of a personal indictment against Sarah Jessica Parker. I cannot think of too many titles of hers that I enjoy. I… Read more “The Family Stone, by Albert W. Vogt III”
The Legionnaire 