films seen
2
average score
3.25*
nationality
status
Alive and kicking

Movies


Detention

Fan Xiao
2019 / 102m - Taiwan
Horror, Mystery
3.5*/5.0*
Detention poster

A stylish horror film told in three acts. The film isn't too scary, in part because it sticks closely to the genre clichés that have been defining Asian horror for the past two decades. But the film is very atmospheric, and there's plenty of intrigue beyond the pure horror scenes, so the net result is positive.

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The cinematography is lush, the performances are strong, and the plot structure is smart, with enough revelations and minor twists that kept me interested. The CG was a tad disappointing, and I wish the core horror moments had been a bit tenser, but all in all, this was a very capable film.


Dead Talents Society

Gui Cai Zhi Dao
2024 / 111m - Taiwan
Comedy, Horror
3.0*/5.0*
Dead Talents Society poster

The premise is smart and funny, the presentation is lush. But Taiwan struggles with comedies, and Dead Talents Society falls victim to the usual traps. The performances, despite the presence of a solid cast, aren't that great, and the comedy feels a little flimsy and toothless, which takes away from the mood.

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The introduction is great and the premise is original. I had good hopes after the first fifteen minutes, but then things got a bit sillier and the film also became more repetitive. It's still a good option if you're looking for something a little different. The presentation is fine too, but it's just not funny enough.