Genre: Action, comedy

Rated: 14

Directed by: Seth Gordon

Written by: Seth Gordon, Brendan O’Brien

Starring: Cameron Diaz, Jamie Foxx, McKenna Roberts

When it comes to TV series, streaming providers offer us a wide range of quality content. It’s no secret that this year you can expect several recommendations for series on Cineblog. On the other hand, regarding movies, we have a slightly more challenging task, and there are generally two options. We can choose to catch up on those films we missed in the cinema. The other option is to look for current productions specifically made for the given platform. This is a much tougher nut to crack because far fewer of these original productions are made. For those who seek, they will find, and by searching through recent premieres, one can come across a few more promising pieces. This is how we found the recently released film, Back in Action, which is an action-comedy starring Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx.

The basic idea of the movie is similar to Mr. and Mrs. Smith. The difference is that Emily (Cameron Diaz) and Matt (Jamie Foxx) are not working against each other, but on the contrary: they are brought together by a common mission. As their cases become increasingly complicated, they decide to leave their former lives behind and choose a more relaxed civilian job and start a family instead of the thrill of espionage. All goes well, but after 15 years, their past catches up with them, and they must once again put to good use what they have learned from their previous missions. It’s not just their own safety at stake anymore. Their children are also in constant danger as they run.

Back in Action manages to come up with some good ideas in an area that we wouldn’t have thought of at first. It very wittily showcases the differences between generations. We had a good laugh at the jokes about „boomers,” and the parts depicting the difficulties in parent-child relationships. The chemistry between Diaz and Foxx is very good; they play together excellently. There are quite a few situations meant to be funny but end up being rather awkward. Although the story is really predictable and unimaginative, it overall offers pleasant moments.

A big advantage of the production is that London was chosen for it. European locations have made the James Bond and Bourne films special, and this is no exception. But the action sequences are often rushed, with a lot of editing. This makes it hard to follow what is happening during a close combat fight. In contrast to the story, more creativity is shown here, with the petrol station ambush and the chase along the Thames River being really memorable.

Back in action won’t be a cultural landmark, but it’s a good way to pass the time after a tiring day. Let’s hope that after a relatively long break, Cameron Diaz will take on more roles that will allow her to put her acting skills to better use.

What’s your opinion? Do you prefer watching series or movies on streaming platforms? We look forward to your responses in the comments. If you liked our article, please share our post with others. We will be back soon. In the meantime, if you’re looking for a delicious snack for movie and series nights, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.

Genre: Thriller, drama, action

Rated: 18

Written and directed by: Hwang Dong-hyuk

Starring: Lee Jung-jae, Tom Choi, Greg Chun

After more than three years, one of the most successful series from the streaming giant continues. Following the date set for the end of January review, we were surprised on the day of the launch, the last week of December, that all the episodes were available on the platform at the same time. After a month, most of you will probably come across our article as a way to recap, catch up on the prequels, and finish the second season. In any case, we’ll strive to be spoiler-free for those of you who still have a few twists and turns to go.

We had the bad feeling that the story was simply a repeat of the first stage, without any major changes. We are happy to say that the second season consistently carries the plot forward, while managing to remain as deep, exciting and provocative. Right from the first episode, we were treated to some very powerful scenes that immediately brought us back into the atmosphere of the series. What we couldn’t like, however, is that while the number of episodes makes this sequel a fair one, it doesn’t feel like a cohesive, separate, complete whole, or at most a half. Of course, the first season left some questions unanswered, but there we could still feel that a chapter had been closed. We now know that a third season is coming this year, so at least we don’t have to wait too long for the conclusion.

There are also new characters in the series. They have managed to present people in situations that have not been mentioned before, but who are authentic representatives of contemporary society. The creators didn’t forget the familiar characters too. They have been given additional layers and new challenges. In fact, they put even more emphasis on the relationship dynamics between the contestants, which made the final result even more meaningful.

The unique visuals and art design added as much to the success of Squid game as the pithy social commentary and the relentlessly tense, life-or-death children’s games for the big prize. We feel that no new elements have been introduced in this area, but the familiar visual stylistic cues such as the vibrant use of colour, the now iconic costumes and the emotive close-ups focusing on faces continue to do their part, and remain effective.

In the continuation of Squid Game, everything is included that originally captured our attention. However, due to its lack of development, it is challenging to judge its quality. This was further emphasized by the last episode, which felt more like a promising mid-season finale. In light of the previous episodes, we are extending our trust. For those eagerly wanting to see the next act, go ahead, but be prepared that instead of satisfaction, your curiosity for the forthcoming events will be even more piqued.

How did you like the second season? Are you looking forward to the next episodes? Share your thoughts in the comments below. If you liked our article, share it with others. We’ll be back soon, but in the meantime, watch lots of movies and series, and follow our recommendations on Cineblog. And if you’re craving a tasty snack for your movie and series marathons, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.

Genre: Animation, action, adventure

Rated: 12

Directed by: Jeff Fowler

Written by: Pat Casey, Josh Miller, John Whittington

Starring: Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, Keanu Reeves

For a film fan, the first months of the new year are the most important. It’s no different for the year 2025. The Oscars are less than two months away, and hopefully we’ll be packed with more and more great premieres until then. But before that happens, we have to recommend a great video game adaptation that debuted at the end of the year, the latest adventure of the lightning-fast blue hedgehog.

The story focuses on the introduction of a new character, Shadow, who looks very much like Sonic, but whose personality has been negatively affected by the loss of a significant companion. He is such a tough opponent that even the combined strength of our heroes is not enough to defeat him. Their only hope of winning is to team up with their greatest foe, Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey). They’ll find that the fiercest fight is with their inner selves, not with one another.

Making hybrid animated films that combine computer-generated characters with live actors is a risky business. Without careful execution, it is easy to become confused and fragmented. Fortunately, there is no such thing here. It’s a very impressive movie, rich in dynamic scenes, true to the Sonic games.

Admittedly, each member of the trio can be described by one or two characteristics, but they complement each other well. Sonic, the funny, daring team leader, Tails, the cute and clever tech genius, and Knuckles, the hot-headed muscle-brain. But the creators made a very good decision and concentrated most of the attention on Shadow. As this is primarily a children’s film, they didn’t turn the drama up a level, but they still managed to talk about self-acceptance, dealing with loss and team spirit with enough sensitivity. Dr Robotnik is also more prominent, for which we cannot be grateful enough. Jim Carrey is in fantastic form, his every move making the audience laugh out loud. In addition, the story takes a direction that delivers all of this in double doses, but we won’t give away more than that. In the midst of the loud laughter, we felt both impressed and touched, as it brought back the childhood memories of Ace Ventura or Dumb and Dumber.

Sonic the hedgehog 3 has an exemplary sense of humour and action for youngsters, as well as for nostalgic parents in their thirties. Near perfect for a family programme, but unfortunately there is no rose without a thorn. The 110-minute runtime was felt by many children, and they were walking in and out of the screening. However, it says everything about the success of the film that on the way out, several little boys and girls asked „Mummy, are we coming to Sonic 4?”.

2024 was a particularly strong year on the animation front. Alongside The wild Robot and Inside out 2, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 was the best of the bunch for us. We can also heartily recommend the first two in the trilogy. Stay after the credits if you don’t want to miss an interesting extra scene.

We hope that as many of you as possible will watch this movie. If any of you have already seen it, please share your thoughts in the comments. By sharing our post, you can support our work. And if you’re looking for a delicious snack for movie and series nights, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.

Genre: Comedy, drama

Rated: 12

Directed by: Alexander Payne

Written by: David Hemingson

Starring: Paul Giamatti, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Dominic Sessa

Although Christmas has passed, the festive spirit fortunately does not disappear from one day to the other. If you’re planning to stay at home and watch movies until New Year’s Eve, we’ve got another streaming gem for you. The Holdovers was one of the best contenders in the 2024 Oscar line-up. It’s much more than an average Christmas movie, and it won’t leave you without some valuable thoughts.

The long-awaited winter break has arrived for teachers and students at Barton Academy. However, there are some who, for various reasons, will not be able to go home for the holidays. Tully (Dominic Sessa) is staying away from his family because his mother wants to honeymoon with her new husband. Mary (Da’Vine Joy Randolph) is mourning the loss of her son and insists on staying within the school walls until the New Year. And Professor Hunham (Paul Giamatti), the school’s stern and insufferable history teacher, is appointed by the headmaster himself to oversee the remaining students.

As good dramedy should be, The Holdovers offers the most in terms of detailed characterisation and dialogue between the participants. There is enough time for us to get to know each of them in depth. The personality-shaping moments in their past are gradually revealed. And when they disagree, the intentions and feelings of the opposing parties are fully understood. The creators are able and willing to deal with issues such as loneliness, regrets carried over decades, grief and mental illness. These are serious issues, but the film makes tasteful use of humour. You may not laugh loudly, but if you’re open to the sarcastic style, you’ll find plenty of moments of levity.

The story itself doesn’t have much to offer, but the second half of the film is much more eventful. There is more situation comedy and unexpected events. The visuals are deliberately old-fashioned. Of course, for a dialogue-driven creation we don’t want to complain, but we would have liked to see some more imaginative shots. The point is that the actors are all excellent. Paul Giamatti’s performance is commendable. Dominic Sessa has a bright future ahead if he is given similar opportunities to develop. Da’Vine Joy Randolph deservedly won the gold statue for Best Supporting Actress.

Experiences like The holdovers are sometimes much needed. It helps us recognise the constructive potential of community, the importance of gratitude, and that first impressions are not necessarily reliable indicators. As the famous saying goes: Don’t judge a book by its cover.

Have you seen the movie? If so, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments. If not, we hope we’ve made you want to see it. All that remains is to thank you for your attention this year. We wish you a happy new year. You can still count on us in 2025 if you’re at a loss for cinema and streaming options. And if you’re in the mood for a tasty snack while watching a film or series, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.