Movie reviews of Ruth Maramis

Hawes may not be an action director, but he definitely knows how to build tension effectively when it counts, without going overboard. Review

While it has its flaws, I’m still impressed and quite entertained by LUZ, and I’m glad I got to enjoy it on the big screen. Lau is a talented and creative filmmaker, so I’m looking forward to her next project, hoping it strikes a better balance between a compelling story and stunning visuals. Review

Bound in Heaven is one of the most emotionally powerful and romantic films I’ve watched in ages. Review

While there are things I enjoy about The Friend, my main issue is that the movie overstays its welcome, and my sympathy for the characters fades as it drags on needlessly. Review

The pacing is solid, able to keep my attention for nearly two hours. Review

It’s a heart-wrenching film to be sure, but I don’t think it’s as perfect as some made it out to be. Review

It’s watchable for Jones and terrific supporting performances from Connie Britton, Zach Galifianakis, and Danny Ramirez. Review

There are some funny and heartfelt scenes between the two, but overall, the script meanders and the movie goes longer than it needs to be. Review

Stunningly beautiful and atmospheric, I’m glad I saw this despite not having the stomach for horror movies. Review

This one has such a riveting buildup, but there’s no satisfying payoff in the end. It’s a real bummer considering the excellent cast made the most of the subpar material. Review

It’s a heartfelt multi-generational tale of men grappling with their relationship woes in today’s society. Plus, the gorgeous Tulum scenery offers a bit of cinema escapism. Review

Laymon captures the essence of our social media-driven world, all while highlighting the enduring power of human relationships. Review

Snow White is passable entertainment; it seems to cater more to kids but it’s tolerable for adults. It doesn’t make me grumpy while watching it but it won’t inspire me to sing a happy tune about it either. Review

Oh My Goodness is unapologetically goofy and absurd, yet it’s also hilarious and endearing with a touch of redemption in the end. The beautiful scenery of the French countryside definitely makes this a fun form of escapism. Review

The cinematography is gorgeous, shot by Soderbergh himself, and I enjoy David Holmes’ wonderfully moody, retro-sounding score. The performances are believable and the storyline, set in the course of an eventful week, has just the right amount of twists without getting too convoluted. Review

When it comes to blending dark humor, social commentary, and sci-fi, Bong Joon-ho usually nails it. However, this time around, he doesn’t quite hit the mark. Review

It’s truly a captivating journey of stunning visual storytelling that makes this one a timeless classic. Review

It’s an excellent documentary about five international women who participate in La Maestra, the only competition in the world for female orchestra conductors. Review

This is quintessential arthouse cinema where the slow, deliberate pace might not appeal to everyone. I find the subtlety quite captivating, though I wish the story had connected more deeply. Review

On Becoming A Guinea Fowl delivers a sharp critique in a tight 99 minutes, loaded with thought-provoking ideas. It’s excellent on a technical level, with evocative cinematography by David Gallego and an appropriately unsettling score by Lucrecia Dalt. Review

This was an intense survival story and an amazing race against time that really showcases the strength of the human spirit. Review

The script drags on, and the direction plays it too safe; it lacks the edge that the story really needs. Review

Mara believably conveys her struggles when she can’t be with Rex, especially as she is dealing with PTSD. Review

Yes, it’s predictable, even for those who haven’t seen the documentary. But Kagti’s vibrant direction makes this such a joy to watch, an immersive experience from start to finish. Review