What I Watched This Week
Kaiju No. 8 (Crunchyroll)
5/5 Stars
I have always appreciated mangaka who incorporate breaks into their writing schedules, ensuring the quality and consistency of their work. From the start, this aspect inclined me positively towards Kaiju No. 8. The first 12 episodes of the anime have only cemented my admiration, earning a solid 5/5 stars. The humor translates exceptionally well into the animation style, and the heartfelt moments resonate deeply through the screen. The narrative is compelling, the characters are well-developed, and the animation quality is top-notch. This anime is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare (Library DVD)
3.5/5 Stars
I typically shy away from war movies, especially those set during World War II. However, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare caught my eye with its very attractive cast – seriously, every single person on screen was incredibly kissable. Beyond the eye candy, the film kept me hooked with its blend of humor, action, and an intriguing "based on real people" tagline. While it's not my usual cup of tea, the movie managed to surprise me, earning a respectable 3.5/5 stars.
Monkey Man (Library DVD)
5/5 Stars
I must admit, I have a significant bias towards Dev Patel, but even objectively, Monkey Man is a visual masterpiece. The cinematography is stunning, and the visual storytelling is as impactful as the narrative itself. The story of a man on a quest for vengeance is a tale as old as time, yet it feels refreshingly new through this film's lens. The movie also led me to research the Hijra community in India, showcasing its ability to spark curiosity and educate viewers. A solid 5/5 stars for this captivating film.
Challengers (Rewatched)
4.5/5 Stars
Rewatching Challengers was an interesting experience. My initial enthusiastic 5/5 rating has now shifted to a 4.5/5. The movie's dynamic changes depending on which character you relate to. Initially, I saw myself in Patrick, but this time, I found it difficult to understand Art. Perhaps next time, I'll relate to Zendaya's character and give the movie a 6/5! The film's ability to offer new perspectives with each viewing keeps it engaging and impressive.
