Movie Reviews in 20 Words or Less | January 2021

Over on Twitter I run an account that gives movie reviews in twenty words or less. In a fast and moving world, attention spans can be short, especially on social media. I challenged myself to strip away the excess fat from reviews and post my succinct thoughts that get to the heart of how I feel. New releases, old classics, first-time viewings, and tenth time rewatches

See below for a round-up of the last month’s content.


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Die Hard with a Vengeance – Explosive action, awesome stunts and great lead chemistry. Goes off the rails towards the end but definitely an enjoyable watch.


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The Piano – A film where the more I thought about it, the more I appreciated it. Stunning cinematography and Hunter is outstanding.


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A Short Film About Love – At it’s heart, a creepy story about a peeping Tom, yet Kieslowski delivers it in a compelling and engrossing way.


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Babyteeth – A highly emotional roller coaster that avoids descending into the bleak, cheerless drama it could have been. Absolutely fantastic.


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Les Misérables – Tense and sometimes uncomfortable, feels like a cross between La Haine and Training Day. And that’s a massive complement.


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Escape from New York – An intriguing premise hindered slightly by slow pacing and sparse action, but Kurt Russell’s iconic performance makes it must watch.


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Yi Yi – A contemplative look at everyday life that, at three hours long, feels like it’s to be appreciated more than enjoyed.


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Adult Life Skills – I went in expecting a light comedy and got an emotional exploration of loss. Very British and very good.


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Minority Report – With visual effects that have aged tremendously well, it’s an absolute masterclass in action, tension, world-building and atmosphere.


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Frances Ha – Fantastically witty and enjoyable look at friendship and finding purpose. Quirk overload at times but that’s part of it’s charm.


Have you seen any of these films and if so, what are your thoughts?

Author: Lee McCutcheon

Happy to watch absolutely anything, with a soft spot for world cinema.