Devilreaux (2023)

As I was making my way through the day trying to decide on what I was going to do, I did kick back and watch a movie to help pass the time. Unfortunately, my selection could have been better. 2023s low budget entry Devilreaux.

Plot: A series of murders in the 1800s will be avenged by forbidden voodoo, woken up accidentally by a group of teenagers.

I often ignore rating stars on streaming services when selecting movies and sometimes that is to my detriment. In this case, this was three stars on Amazon, but I went ahead anyway. My rating will be less than that three. This one didn’t do anything for me. The storyline was outlandish and too stereotypical, the performances flat and contrived and the effects were laughable at best. This is a bad movie and has almost no entertaining qualities. In the end, I am glad this only cost me roughly 90 minutes of my time. If I had paid for it, I would have been a lot more disappointed. You should definitely pass on this one, there are many more options out there.

A Creature was Stirring (2023)

Today was busy. Between some articles for my side gig at Titans Wire and bringing Illuminating the Abyss back online, I have spent most of the day on the computer. That did give me a chance to put on some true crime documentaries and a horror flick throughout the day. That included this one: A Creature was Stirring from 2023. 

Plot: A nurse taking care of her daughter's mysterious affliction struggles to hide her secrets when uninvited strangers take shelter in her house during a lethal blizzard.

I am not a huge fan of holiday horror, I don’t know why exactly, but that’s the case. This one was more interesting than I expected when reading the description on Shudder, but that isn’t saying it’s good. I will say that it is a strange one overall, with some weird lighting and some decent special effects. Unfortunately, the performances are shaky and the storyline is full of plot holes that are never really pulled together. In the end, this was entertaining on a cold day, but it really isn’t worth watching a second time. If you like wintery themed horror, give it a shot, you may enjoy it more than I did. 

The Breach (2023)

There is nothing more that I like then when multiple interests intersect inside a movie.  Especially,  when this happens by surprise.  Of course,  this does impact my overall view on things,  having a soft spot for certain topics. Too often, certain subjects become blown off by society when they appear inside horror or Sci-Fi movies and for me this is a great example of the unfortunate conditioning that mainstream media has perpetrated on society.  So many people have no clue what is really happening and that entertainment is used to lift the veil on reality via soft disclosure of information.  Something that was definitely in this 2023 entry,  The Breach.

Plot: When a mangled body with strange wounds washes up on the shores of the Porcupine River, John Hawkins is compelled to investigate one more case before retiring as the chief of police in the small town of Lone Crow.

From the described premise,  I expected a typical horror thriller story a touch of mystery thrown in.  Never would I have existed a money into cosmic horror with references to the Mandela Effect and CERN. That right there was the book that drew me in.  While the movie isn't perfect and never reaches its full cosmic horror potential, the storyline and subject matter is interesting and informative and definitely adds to the overall feel.  The performances are solid, the effects alright, and the scripting works,  there are some technical elements between the different characters and filming locations that felt disjointed. Especially with what was supposed to be a FaceTime encounter.  However,  those elements did nothing to ruin the entertainment factor.  And the fact that the filmmakers actually made reference to CERNs stated goal of opening a portal to see what comes through made me applaud. No one ever discusses the rituals and craziness that is CERN and ignore the fact that they are attempting to rip into the fabric of reality.  Personally, I believe it has already happened and we are living in ripples created by their created by their contact with the other side I f the veil. I would definitely recommend this one.  It may not be perfect but it's informative and entertaining.  

Dark Harvest (2023)

 

I decided that I needed a break from the world of Fallout 76 yesterday afternoon and decide to watch a few movies.  One I have watched before and this 2023 entry Dark Harvest.

Plot: Teens confront a legendary supernatural spectre that emerges from the cornfields of a small Midwestern town every fall.

At first glance,  I figured this was going to be another Slasher/Teenage based horror flick.  Fortunately,  I was wrong and this was quite entertaining and somewhat original campared to a majority of the movies coming out today. Although, the premise was a touch outlandish, there were some interesting elements within the storyline.  The performances were OK, the scripting decent,  the scenery and era fit,  and the effects were pretty good.  My biggest peeve was that I was able to figure out the twist about mid way through and spent the majority of the movie trying to figure out what was going to happen to rectify it. I did like the ending and the way it turned out.  But,  I'm sure some will watch and be turned off by both the end and the story itself.  In the end,  this was a fun movie and one I thought was a lot better than I expected.  I'm sure it will be polarizing, but if your look for some fun horror,  give it a shot. 

Thanksgiving (2023)

It's not often that I look forward to watching a slasher film.  Don't get me wrong,  I absolutely love them.  Unfortunately,  most modern entries are nothing compared to the ones I grew up with.  But that was different,  A son as I saw that 2023s Thanksgiving was streaming, I had to watch it.  

Plot: An axe-wielding maniac terrorises residents of Plymouth, Massachusetts, after a Black Friday riot ends in tragedy. Picking off victims one by one, the seemingly random revenge killings soon become part of a larger, sinister plan.

Wow, this one was se much fun to watch.  While I'm sure that it will fall into the love it or hate it arena,  I hope more love it.  This one has everything you need to take a modern journey into the world of the classic slasher genre with an entertaining story,  over-the- top kills, and some really good effects.  Did,  since of it was headscratching, there were some holes in the story,  and I found it sonewhat predictable, but that did nothing to take away from the overall feel and experience. In the end,  this was a great watch and I'm actually hoping there is a sequel.  It is a holiday classic that with his become part of our Thanksgiving traditions. 

Freddy's Friday's (2023)

I took a couple days away as I continue to battle this cold.  Plus,  I've been caught up trying to finish a few quests in Fallout 76, last night being one with the Cult of Mothman, so that's been fun.  But,  today I decided to dive back into some horror with 2023s Freddy's Friday's. 

Plot: A detective begins to investigate a series of mysterious murders that are connected to a demonic book that brings dolls to life. As the body count begins to rise, the detective soon learns the curse of the demonic Friday and must find a way to stop.

If you thought this was gong to be a ripoff of Five Nights at Freddy's from looking at the cover, you would be so off base. That is what I thought as well,  until I started watching it.  Instead,  I found an erratic and strange low budget summoned demon slasher influenced film that had some masked, almost animatronic, looking killer's. While there was potential here, the casting, performances, effects, and execution was lacking throughout. It was really a hard watch. Yes,  I did find it interesting,  but not enough to recommend it to anyone. Stay away.

Creepypasta (2023)

After spending the day out and about exploring the trail of the Mothman in Point Pleasant, it was nice to come back to the AirBnB and relax. Luckily,  there were plenty of things to choose from for entertainment,  although this selection was,  well... The 2023 notification flick,  Creepypasta.

Plot: Trapped in an abandoned house, a nameless man desperately searches for clues to how he got there. The answer is hidden within a series of disturbing viral videos - each of which begins to infect his mind.

As a writer and a fan of the Creepypasta genre, I had hoped this would fit into that mold and possibly give me some inspiration. Unfortunately, this hopes we're quickly dashed and I feel into the two of a title sucking me into nothingness.  This low budget entry doesn't do anything to suck you in,  in fact,  it is hard to decide on what the main storyline is.  The cinematography may be the highlight,  and honestly nothing about that stood out.  The performances were uneven,  the stories ran together,  and there was really nothing creepy or scary within the confines of this movie.  So there it is,  and if you couldn't tell from that, there is no way I would recommend this one. 

Mothman: Beyond the Legend (2023)

I just found out yet I'll be heading off to Point Pleasant, WV at the end of the week for a quick birthday trip and I can't wait.  If you have ready my blog from the outset,  you will already know about my fascination with Mothman and most of the world of cryptids. I can't wait to explore the birthplace of a legendary cryptid.  To help prepare,  I searched out a documentary that I hadn't watched yet and found this 2023 entry,  Mothman: Beyond the Legend. 

Plot: Global sightings challenge the notion that the Mothman is a figment of imagination, but rather an omen of change—or simply beyond our understanding.

This was an interesting documentary on the Mothman that prevents information in a straightforward manner.  While it does lack some of the flair of many of the higher budgeted entries in the topic,  this one definitely takes on quite a bit of material and methodically produces it in a way that flows together quite well. Not only do they discuss the besieging of Point Pleasant, they discuss how the myth has endured and its impact on pop culture.  They also present some cases from all over that have similar characteristics such as the Owlman of Cornwall. In the end,  this was a simple refresher for me that came across pretty good.  Yes,  it is definitely completed on a low budget featuring some and stock footage,  but for informational purposes it served us purpose. In the end, if you are looking for reenactments or craft effects this one may not be for you,  but if you are simply looking for information, give this one a shot.  

Mountain Devil 3: The Bigfoot Invasion (2021)

As I stated yesterday,  I didn't the day inside a Mountain Devil marathon.  Actually being a bit jealous,  as I know and have didn't time in the field with some of the researchers featured in the series.  Oh well,  that's what I get for moving away from the area a few years ago.  With they being said,  here is Mountain Devil 3: The Bigfoot Invasion from 2021.

Plot: This mockumentary explores the sightings of Aliens and Alien Spacecraft in Pennsylvania in the 1970's. While at the same time, sightings of a large hairy creature many know as Bigfoot were sighted at the same time.

I really liked the source material in this one.  Being from the area,  I am familiar with many of these cases and absolutely loved the content.  However,  while the interviews and stories were good,  the execution of the reenactments were hit and miss.  The performances by the cat were uneven to say the least.  Since of them were just bad. While txt did take away of the effectiveness of the source material.  The effects and costuming were also rather uninteresting and to me tom away from the quality of the film.  I understand this is a low budget entry,  but the creatures looked really bad and unbelievable. In the end, while I did enjoy it,  it was hard to watch.  While I understand what was intended,  the validity of the true stories was easily overlooked by the attempt at over the top dramatizations. It definitely isn't for everyone. 

Nefarious (2023)

It has been a busy day today as I did some work around the house.  Climbing on ladders still may not be the best idea, but oh well.  After that,  it was kicking back and really watching a movie I saw earlier in 2023, Nefarious. 

Plot: On the day of his scheduled execution, a convicted serial killer tells a psychiatrist that he's a demon who can possess his body. As the evaluation ends, he also tells the doctor that he will soon commit three murders of his own.

After watching this a second time, it validated everything I thought when I saw it in the drive-in, this is one of the best movies of 2023. While I know that some will look at it strictly from a religious perspective,  which is understandable in some ways,  but it is some much more. The performances were top notch,  the cast amazing,  and the tension in the dialog was outstanding. It's amazing what can be done with a minimal cast and this one series how to pack a punch. Yes,  the soundtrack may have been lacking and the ending felt a touch forced and filled with a touch too much religious messaging,  but other than that it is a tremendous film that should have had a larger reception. I definitely recommend this one to everyone. 

No One Will Save You (2023)

As 2023 came to an end,  it was quite refreshing to look m back m and see that I have finally gone back and started working on here again.  Having recovered from my transplant and still attempting to break out of this writers block,  I see it as a step in the right direction. The first movie for 2024 was quite a surprise,  the 2023 alien invasion flick No One Will Save You. 

Plot - Brynn finds solace within the walls of the home where she grew up until she's awakened one night by strange noises from unearthly intruders.

Who knew a movie with next to no dialog would be so interesting and entertaining? Have seen the cover on Hulu, i decided to take the chance and what i found was something i didn't expect,  a unique approach to a Sci-fi/horror thriller. Yes,  it did have did have some flaws,  but overall it was gripping entry. Kaitlyn Dever was amazing and plays the character perfectly aided by only actions and emotions.  The atmosphere is good,  cinematography works,  and the feel of the movie works all around.  Sure,  the backstory is lost for the most part and the aliens have maybe too many looks, abilities, and inconsistencies,  but those are minor flaws and can easily be overlooked. If you are looking for an intriguing alien invasion flick,  this one is for you.  Check it out!

Leave the World Behind (2023) Part 3 - Tesla Roadblock

After a couple days of holiday horror (which I am continuing right now) I decided to get back to Leave the World Behind, and the symbolism and predictive programming it gave us. Tonight though,  I am going to go into one of the weirder scenes, one that was quite  prophetic already,  just days after the movie premiere on Netflix.

Plot: A family vacation on Long Island is interrupted by two strangers bearing news of a blackout. As the threat grows, both families must decide how best to survive the potential crisis, all while grappling with their own place in this collapsing world.

Looking back at this movie after a few days away,  this may be one of the most ironic scenes in the movie, when they stumble upon a fleet of Tesla's blocking the road as they attempt to escape the area. In the scene, hese are all brand-new self-driving Teslas, and they drove themselves to the highway. With no drivers present, it appears that these cars were hacked and more may very well be on their way to clog the highways. Sure enough, another Tesla starts coming down the road, driving straight toward the family’s car.

Is this possible? Absolutely. Yes, it would be extremely difficult and highly unlikely,  but the scene does present a situation that could happen in a freak scenario.  At first,  I was gong to skip past this and just chalk it up to the hatred that the government appears to have with Tesla and owner Elon Musk. From the outset under President Obama and especially now under President Biden, Tesla never gets recognized the same way that the major automakers (Ford or GM) with their progress in electric vehicles. I am in no way making a political statement,  I am just pointing out an apparent fact with that, so so please don't look at this through a political lens. Now,  why did I revisit this?

In a strange twist,  just like something from a movie.  Tesla announced that it is recalling nearly all 2 million of its cars on US roads to limit the use of its Autopilot feature following a two-year probe by US safety regulators of roughly 1,000 crashes in which the feature was engaged.

Leave the World Behind was released on November 22, and this recall occurred in December 13, less than a month after the world saw this scene.  Was this just an odd coincidence? That is entirely possible,  but I don't really believe in those and think this was some of the predictive programming I mentioned above.  Would it really be out of the realm of possibility that President Obama or someone in his team got wind of the pending report by someone on the safety committee? I don't think so.  Or, would it be possible that after seeing the scene (and even Elon commenting on it on social media), the movie forced Tesla's hand? We will probably never know.  All I know is I don't believe in coincidence,  and this one is just too perfect.  Agree or disagree,  let me know. 

It's a Wonderful Knife (2023)

I decided to take a break from Leave the World Behind to watch some holiday horror.  While this isn't anywhere near Halloween, there are some entertaining horror films that take place during this holiday season.  This movie from 2023 fits solidly into that realm,  It's a Wonderful Knife.

Plot: Winnie's life is less than wonderful one year after saving her town from a psychotic killer on Christmas Eve. When she wishes she was never born, she finds herself magically transported to a nightmarish parallel universe. With the murderous maniac now back, she must team up with a misfit to identify the culprit and get back to her own reality.

When I say down to watch this one,  I was actually somewhat excited, the idea of a slasher take on a Christmas classic looked fun.  Unfortunately, the execution didn't meet my initial excitement.  While there are some positive with the cinematography and overall feel,  the scripting was extremely incoherent and the movie suffered from that.  The characters were flat,  the performances were uneven, and overall it felt rather predictable after an interesting start.  Now,  this is far from the worst movie in the genre,  but,  I'm positive that there are many better choices out there.  My recommendation, stay away.

Leave the World Behind (2023) Part 2 - 1619 MHz

This is a movie that has created so much buzz on Tik Tok and other social media with the ever-changing symbolism sprinkled through the film.  While some of it is obvious,  some of the other stuff is more obscure.  One of those I will go over today in part two, the 1619 MHz frequency that shows up on the radio screen in the car.

Plot: A family vacation on Long Island is interrupted by two strangers bearing news of a blackout. As the threat grows, both families must decide how best to survive the potential crisis, all while grappling with their own place in this collapsing world.

When I first saw this in the film,  it didn't register.  I originally thought that it was a satellite radio malfunction.  But,  at second glance, it damned on me that the frequency say outside of all three major radio systems AM, FM, or Satellite. While 1619 MHz (or 1.616 GHz) can be used for satellite communications uplink, it is mostly used in L-Band RADAR. The wavelength range of L band is 30–15 cm. The L band is one of the chief operating ranges used by various applications such as radars, global positioning systems (GPS), telecommunications and aircraft surveillance. So, this was an odd choice for the radio,  but why?

One of the simplest dots to connect would be to associate it with the 1619 Project, after all, a ship named White Lion made a huge impact early on in the movie.  For those not b familiar, the 1619 Project is The New York Times Magazine's award-winning reframing of American history that placed slavery and its continuing legacy at the center of our national narrative. And the ship that delivered the slaves to the shores of America? The White Lion.

I could have stopped there,  but,  something kept nagging at me.  That's when the thought of the frequency detected at Skinwalker Ranch when a UAP appeared on the television show The Secret of Skinwalker Ranch popped into my head. That frequency was 1.6 Ghz. While that frequency on the show was a general 1.6 GHz, it still popped into my head because it would still sit within the bandwidth.  With all the talk of disclosure going around (especially in Congress) would it be outside the realm of predictive programming to plant the seed on a potential communication frequency?

That's when I found this video on Tik Tok that sat in the 1.6 GHz range.  While I don't have the equipment here to verify and it is outside the 1619 MHz mentioned in the film,  again it is. In the same bandwidth. This could all be a coincidence, but I don't believe in coincidence. 

In the end,  it is likely another reference to White Lion and the 1619 Project, but other possibilities can exist. Possibly even one that we don't know about yet.  If you agree,  or have a thought about this featured,  leave me a comment.  Plus,  stay tuned for the next entry in this series.  

Leave the World Behind (2023) Part 1 - Haunted Amusement Park

The Netflix movie Leave the World Benind, produced by Higher Ground Productions owned by President and Michelle Obama had been creating nquite a stir. Full of symbolism and Easter Eggs. I know,  if you're reading this,  you probably think I have my tin foil hat on,  but, really, there is a lot to unpack. Even after watching it a third time,  I keep finding more,  so, check back from time to time.  

Plot: A family vacation on Long Island is interrupted by two strangers bearing news of a blackout. As the threat grows, both families must decide how best to survive the potential crisis, all while grappling with their own place in this collapsing world.

A link discovered in a QR code on the above map takes you to the website for Lake Shawnee Amusement Park. This note abandoned park is open for ghost tours and tickets can be purchased to visit the location. But why in this movie that is type with messages and symbolism would this place be so prominent? That's a great question and one I have yet to crack.

With it being privately owned and a small opperation, i would doubt that it has the finances to take part in a product placement ad. In fact, it wasn't an ad at all, since it was hidden in a QR code on a map. The state of West Virginia may have had it added, but again there are many other historical kandmarks that would make more sense.  So, let's look at the history. 

Technically, Lake Shawnee Amusement Park dates back to the 1920s, when in 1926 it opened its doors to its first visitors. However, Lake Shawnee has a history that spends generations and some of those may play into the legends that run rampant in this area.  

Built as a relaxation destination for early miners, proprietor Conley Snidow, Sr. Envisioned a vacation destination brimming with activity for the entire family.  It had everything from swimming areas,  rides,  to cabins.  Unfortunately,  this would not last,  and the park started to be plagued by strange accidents and deaths. This activity peaked in the 1950s and the shock locals began to lose interest, eventually firing the park to close in 1966.

After sitting dormant for decades, the park returned to life in the 80s with its signature ferris wheel and swings in tow. However,  this new life as short lived,  and the park shuttered after only three seasons due to rising insurance costs. It was one the parked closed that the owners made some incredible discoveries on the property that served to add to the lore telling the story of the original occupants, the Shawnee tribe, who seemed to vanish from the land in the 1700s. Included in the discovery was a mass grave,  with the remains of thousands of Native Americans that were laid to rest in the property. 

Of course,  the disturbance of these bones during the years of construction and activity on the property could have set the different owners on a path of despair.  Couple that with did of the mysterious deaths and the 1950s, you have a recipe for a haunted location. 

If not the specific location, what about the area.  Located in Mercer County, Lake Shawnee sits in the heart of Appalachia full of hunting and fishing (plus,  some cool cryptids), but really nothing more.  It is also in coal country,  an industry under attack by the Obama's and the majority of those on the Left. Again, making it a strange place to be featured in the movie (especially since the power grid is hacked and coal was a backbone of the industry for generations).

I really have no idea what the meaning is,  or if there is one,  but my gut tells me there is something here with this.  Maybe after more digging, I'll (or someone) will discover a reason,  until then,  I will keep looking.  Do you have any ideas? If so,  comment and let me know.  

JFK: What the Doctors Saw (2023)

It's a dreary and rainy morning here on the eve of Thanksgiving and it was perfect for some documentary time after taking care of the pups this morning.  With it being November 22nd, I decided to tackle the new JFK documentary on Paramount +. JFK: What the Doctors Saw.

Plot: Startling medical observations about JFK's wounds when seven doctors who were in the Parkland Hospital ER reunite to discuss a day none of them can forget.

Today marks 60 years from that fateful day and yet,  our government (which many people still trust), still will not release the information they have classified and sealed away from the world.  For many,  it's just a Conspiracy,  nothing to see here, but for many it makes one of the most tragic days in history.  For me,  I have always believed that we were being led to; there was at least one other shooter and this documentary did even more to prove that.  Unlike many previous documentaries on the subject,  this one did not rely on propped up regurgitation of the facts and theories that are everywhere. Instead, this one goes right to the front lines with the doctors and first responders at Parkland and allows them to recount what thethey experienced and witnessed. In the process, it unveils testimony and observations that have been hidden from the population for far too long. It also shows some of the irregularities with the post mortem handling of  the president and how this government driven cover-up started to be crafted.  By now,  many have awoken to the fact that the story we have been fed is a lie,  and it is far past the time where the truth should be told.  If you are searching for the truth or are on the fence,  this one is a must watch.  If you a staunch believer in the company line,  it is even more of a must watch for you,  even though you will probably just laugh it off as a Conspiracy Theory. Just remember,  if the government will lie to you about killing a president,  they will lie to you about anything. 

Hell House llc Origins: Carmichael Manor (2023)

I've taken a few days away from n the movies after going to see the final films in the Hampton Roads 48 Hour Short Film contest.  There were actually a few that could make cool features.  But, now time to get back at it.  Today,  I did kick back and watch something interesting the 2023 entry Hell House llc Origins: Carmichael Manor.

Plot: A group of cold case investigators stay at the Carmichael Manor. After four nights, the group was never heard from again. What is discovered on their footage is even more disturbing than anything found on the Hell House tapes.

When I saw this was coming out,  I wasn't sure what to expect.  I really liked the first one,  but the two sequels left a lot to be desired and did not match the overall promise of the first one.  Fortunately, this one is so much better than this two entries.  This one definitely delivers where this cime up short with an interesting story,  some tensiom and atmosphere, and a few decent scares.  Of course,  the characters and performances are uneven and there were some head scratching moments,  but it was a lot better than the other sequels. It may not be as good as the original,  but this one does a good job of building into the lore and keeping it entertaining. 

Children of the Corn (2023)

I decided to take a break from my Grimm marathon and watch a few movies yesterday, I started the day with Signs, followed by Ghost Ship, and finishing it off with the 2020 (2023) Children of the Corn.

Plot: The film describes the events leading up to, and including, the massacre of the adults of a small town in Nebraska by their children, after the adults' irresponsibility ruins the crop and the children's future.

Honestly, I don't know what to say about this one, it left me speechless ( and not in a good way). I guess if there was one positive,  although outrageous and completely unbelievable, I did like the ending (as a writer). Unfortunately,  that was about it. The storyline was alright but flat, the performances were lacking, the effects were meh, and there was absolutely no tension. In fact, it was more laughable than horror and added nothing to series.  Stay away!

Consecration (2023)

After spending a large portion of the day doing hardworking yesterday,  I decided that it was time to take a break and catch up on some movie watching.  While searching the different streaming services,  I settled on this 2023 entry,  Consecration.

Plot: After the suspicious death of her brother, a priest, Grace travels to the Mount Saviour Convent in Scotland to find out what really happened. Once there, she uncovers murder, sacrilege and a disturbing truth about her own past.

Not knowing anything about this,  I took the chance because of the religious look.  For some reason,  I have been caught up in that genre for a few days.  This one was definitely better that i would have expected. The cinematography creates a tremendously dark and brooding atmosphere. That matches the heavy themes in the storyline.  This is backed by some outstanding performances and solid production qualities.  This one won't be for everyone though,  especially those looking for a quick jump scare.  There are some pacing elements (especially in the first portion of the film) and there really isn't anything that hasn't been seen before,  but those aspects don't destroy the movie in any way.  Yes,  if isn't perfect,  but if you are looking for an atmospheric film with some intriguing scenery give this one a shot.  

Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023)

Having spent most of the day working on yard work and updating my Etsy shop, I decided to take some time and relax. In doing so, I discovered that Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among  Thieves was streaming on Paramount+. So, let the campaign begin.

Plot: A charming thief and a band of unlikely adventurers embark on an epic quest to retrieve a lost relic, but things go dangerously awry when they run afoul of the wrong people.

I went into the new Dungeons & Dragons not knowing what to expect. While i haven't played in years,  i was one an extremely avid player and have been looking to get back into it.  What i found amazed me.  This is an is an absolute blast of a movie. Ther cast and performances are outstanding, the storyline is lighthearted and fun, and the action sequences really work. Best of all, it can be enjoyed by everyone, even those that have never enjoyed the fun and mishaps that take place within a real campaign. Yes, some of the CGI is uneven, but that is easily overlooked. Personally, i loved the small nods to the lore of the series and would hope all of fans pict it up. This is a great journey into a combination of action and comedy, and a movie i totally recommend.