A Geek’s Month in Review: November 2012

Wow . . . slim pickings, or what?

In a month where the only criterion was being a sequel, I often felt I was searching for the least-weakest links.

There were so many disappointing entries, even the surprises were shocking. And to think that three of the worst offenders have further installments yet!

Fortunately we managed a couple (both listed below as favourites) which tipped the scales, being truly — not just relatively — excellent.

Exceptions notwithstanding, I for one will be very thankful to forget this particular month, overstuffed with “nothing but the rest”.

Favourite
The Barbarian Invasions (2003) on 2012/11/26

* * * * *

“The Barbarian Invasions is a . . . discomfiting blend of existential angst and flippant joie de vivre, it shows us scenes from the final days of a terminal patient and his sprawling ensemble of acquaintances.”

Honourable Mention
Skyfall (2012) on 2012/11/10

Surprise
FUBAR II (2010) on 2012/11/05

* *

“If they did an award for the biggest improving in stuff, FUBAR II would maybe get it, but I still don’t figure that means me telling you to see it. So, basically, you’re still failing, right, but good effort all the same.”

Honourable Mention
The Fly II (1989) on 2012/11/28.

Disappointment
Ginger Snaps II: Unleashed (2003) on 2012/11/24

* *

“I regret Unleashed has [tainted] my view of Ginger Snaps. Unfailingly manipulative and ultimately sadistic, it abandons much of what made its predecessor exceptional.”

Dishonourable Mentions
Cube 2: Hypercube (2002) on 2012/11/13
Decoys 2: Alien Seduction (2007) on 2012/11/19

Least-Liked
Porky’s II: The Next Day (1983) on 2012/11/22

* *

“The first Porky’s was bad.

“The Next Day is worse.“

Show Me
Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008) on 2012/11/04

* * * *

“Guillermo’s taken the proven Hellboy formula and studded it with his singular horrifically gorgeous art style then continues to push things to the near breaking point like all great madmen and true artists do…

“All baroque loveliness brought to you by del Toro.”