Tag: action

Jallikattu (2019)

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I am happy to share another excellent movie out of India (you may recall that I recommended Tumbaad not long ago). This story revolves around a rampaging Water Buffalo, but it’s a lot more interesting than that might make you think. Human folly is on full display, with scenes ranging from hilarious to quite dark. There are a few slow moments, but overall this film is awesome, and beautifully shot. The soundtrack is damn good too.

Not available on domestic Blu-ray.

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‘71 (2014)

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The Troubles are the setting of this very original action / drama. The balance of those genres is well handled, and everything is beautifully filmed. The film’s tension is enhanced by a powerful, bass-heavy, John Carpenter-meets-Godspeed soundtrack. This is pretty dark stuff, but well worth your time.

Not available on domestic Blu-ray.

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The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009)

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I am not a snob about remakes. I just approach them with a ton of caution (I refused to see Suspiria based on reviews). Sometimes remakes are amazing, like The Thing or The Hills Have Eyes. This one is a damn good “reimagining” of the original 1974 film. I love that movie, but this Pelham is enough of its own story to complement the original. When director Tony Scott (RIP) was good, he was better than most big-budget directors, and this is among his better films. Give this a shot when you’re in the mood for a fast-paced action thriller.

Blu-ray available from Sony Pictures.

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The New One-Armed Swordsman (1971)

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The original One-Armed Swordsman was played by Wang Yu. This total reboot stars David Chiang, and it’s a blast. Here the Shaw Brothers go for more straight-forward action, not Five Elements Ninjas-type insanity. Don’t let that discourage you, this is a very entertaining martial arts film. Even the dramatic scenes kept my attention. Recommended, fast-paced action, that is not for the whole family (what with the arm chopping and all).

Not available on domestic Blu-ray.

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Pit Stop (1969)

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Why the hell would anyone want to watch a ’60s car racing movie? I asked myself that same question and then realized it was directed by Jack Hill. He’s the man behind several excellent fast-paced action / exploitation movies including Coffy and Switchblade Sisters. This one isn’t nearly as violent, but damn it grips your attention just as well. You also get to see a young Ellen Burstyn from The Exorcist, and of course, Sid Haig (who didn’t know how to drive when they started production). I thoroughly enjoyed Pit Stop, so give it a chance.

Blu-ray available from Scorpion Releasing.

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The Oily Maniac (1976)

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The Shaw Brothers made this absolutely bonkers horror / action flick years before The Toxic Avenger. It is even more gloriously ridiculous than Toxie. You might just enjoy this movie so much you have to own the collectible vinyl figure (it ain’t cheap though).

Import Blu-ray available from 88 Films.

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Hotel Mumbai (2018)

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This is a surprisingly well-constructed dramatization of the 2008 terror attacks. It does not pull any punches, so be prepared for a lot of graphic violence. The bloodshed is balanced with mostly-believable human stories. Hotel Mumbai manages to shine some light on a story that I didn’t know nearly enough about before watching.

Available on Blu-ray from Universal.

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Starred Up (2013)

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Here’s a high quality, brutal English prison film. Action and drama are both highlighted, and well done. The seasoned criminal father is played by Ben Mendelsohn (pictured above right), who is good in everything I’ve ever seen him in. When it’s over you’ll have gotten your violence jollies, and also be able to stroke your chin whilst pontificating on the ills of the penal system.

Not available on domestic Blu-ray.

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End of Watch (2012)

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If you hate cops, skip this one.

I hate bad cops.

I love RoboCop (1987).

These guys aren’t as cool as RoboCop.

This is movie is pretty damned good in spite of that flaw.

End of Watch does veer from crazy violence to Hollywood-style drama cheese, but it’s ok. Overall this is a solid action/drama. I even laughed a few times. Also, Ugly Betty and Hopper from Stranger Things are in it briefly, and they’re both awesome.

Available on Blu-ray from Universal.

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13 Assassins (2010)

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This is easily the best recent samurai film, and it’s also one of my top choices among Takashi Miike’s output. 13 Assassins is fast-paced, well made, and features awesome performances. No, it doesn’t have many of the transgressive aspects that this director is known for, but I barely noticed. This film kicks major ass from start to finish.

Available on Blu-ray from Magnolia.

If you are a fan of Anomalous Cinema, please consider supporting this site by donating any amount (even $1.00 is appreciated) via Venmo @vergeoflight / Cash App $vergeoflight / or Paypal at this secure link. A Paypal account is not required. Thank you.