Spoof and parody movies have, in recent years, gone right down the toilet. Movies like the Scary Movie franchise and not another whatever movies have ruined the art of the spoof and parody. Those movies capitalize on the recent trends and pop culture and think topical humor would make good movies; scratch that, they think its an easy cash grab. Instead of implementing timeless stories and plots, let’s parody a commercial with a basketball (I remember the commercial but no idea what it was selling since it’s been over a decade).
The only way to watch good parody and spoofs is to watch the classics where characters were acting like what they were doing and saying was supposed to be an everyday normality. Movies like Airplane and the Naked Gun franchises work is because the actors were treating it as if they’re supposed to say it straight and not be overly goofy. One of the earliest movies that seemed to implement the strategy is Attack of the Killer Tomatoes. This movie is a parody/spoof movie that takes Hitchcock tropes from his The Birds movie and incorporate it into a sci-fi comedy musical. Did it work and does modern audiences even feel any kind of inclination to want to watch a movie with such a goofy title? Let’s look at the plot, the comedy and whether or not it will be funny for modern day audiences. Let’s sit back and see if this movie is ripe (puns are funny) as we review the movie, Attack of the Killer Tomatoes.
The plot of the movie is quite different and makes the movie quite interesting. We have mutated tomatoes on the loose throughout the USA and they are attacking and killing people with no remorse. It’s up to the government and a selected few agents to find a cure or solution to the tomato problem and end it before more and more people get killed and hurt. The movie is trying to be a comedy and spoof version of The Birds.
The movie has this feel of anxiousness because we jump from scene to scene with almost as little context as possible; whether we’re showing different short snippets of people getting attacked by the tomatoes or to government buildings and senate hearings and the president sitting in the oval office. The pace of the movie works to its advantage so it can show the “dire” situations of the tomato problem and also compress all these different scenes in as well to make it a longer feature. Are there scenes that weren’t needed in the movie? There were a couple of scenes that didn’t add to the movie and felt unnecessary, but, it doesn’t harm the movie. It makes you want to think, okay, that missed, but, what else do they have to offer. The plot was explained decently with some surprises along the way but, once we got the story out there and no more setup scenes, the pace slowed down and it was a lot more easy to follow who the characters are and what their purposes are.
The comedy of the movie is fantastic. The opening credits has an operatic singer singing the killer tomato song, which the song itself is so goofy that I am genuinely tickled by it. The actors were playing straight characters (not the goofball) and they were just thrown in funny situations (similar to Airplane). Some of the comedy (without spoiling the movie), features government officials having to get on the desk in order to reach their seats because the room is way too small, a paratrooper constantly in his uniform with the parachute always deployed, mocking Donny Osmond going through puberty, etc.
Watching this movie, I can see where movies like Mars Attacks took some ideas from (mostly the loud pitch song to drive the creatures into a weakened state). Not only is the one liners and action funny, but, its also a musical! Yes, a sci-fi comedy musical. There are a couple of scenes where people will break into songs and sing about what’s going on in the scene and what they hope to accomplish. One scene features a commercial public relations head honcho sing about consumerism and people will listen to whatever he says. Another is when the army is facing great odds against the tomatoes, one soldier solemnly sings about American history in war and like that, it turns into a cabaret/early rock and roll boogie woogie style all about what they’re going to do to the tomatoes when they come face to face with them. It came out of nowhere and I was very happy it did.
Comedies are very hard to write. It’s all subjective and in the PC age, one has to be careful not to offend anyone or else it can lead into a trigger attack and people smearing posts on the internet and whatnot. Most of the comedies in this generation are ingrained in pop culture and drugs and innuendos. Sometimes, we need to take a step away from what’s easy to write and think in twenty years, would this still be funny or would it be outdated? When watching Attack of the Killer Tomatoes, I laugh at the scenes that needed to be.
The jokes are funny due to great writing, and the actors portraying their tough exteriors in scenes that are so out there that the audience would have no choice but to laugh at the absurdity. This movie has timeless jokes and antics that don’t get old no matter how many years has passed. This movie was made in 1977 and in the year 2017 (40 years), I was able to enjoy the jokes and humor this movie offers because it wanted to be funny and timeless, not topical and the local fad. People of this generation and next should be able to sit down and find enjoyment in this movie whether it be the absurd premise or the musicality or the goofiness of some of the characters. Attack of the Killer Tomatoes should be on equal or close to equal par with other successful movies like The Kentucky Fried Movie and Airplane. It’s got a cult following, and one day, it won’t just be a cult phenomenon but will somehow break the glass and just be a forgotten gem that the public would enjoy.
Attack of the Killer Tomatoes is currently streaming on Amazon Prime.
Rating: 4.5/5
Apple TV’s Masters of the Air takes viewers on an intense journey through the harrowing experiences of the Eighth Air Force during World War II. This limited series, produced by the dynamic duo of Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, delivers a gripping portrayal of the bravery and sacrifice of the young men who fought in the skies over Europe. With a focus on authenticity and emotional depth, Masters of the Air stands as a worthy successor to its predecessors, *Band of Brothers* and The Pacific.
The series excels in its meticulous attention to detail, from the period-accurate planes to the stark realism of aerial combat. The visual effects are nothing short of spectacular, immersing the audience in the chaos and danger of high-altitude warfare. The show’s cinematography captures the vastness of the skies and the claustrophobic confines of the bombers, adding to the tension that permeates every scene.
Masters of the Air is anchored by strong performances from its ensemble cast. The actors deliver nuanced portrayals of their characters, conveying the fear, camaraderie, and resolve that defined the Eighth Air Force’s mission. The series doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of war, including the psychological toll on the airmen and the devastating losses they endured.
However, *Masters of the Air* isn’t just about action and heroism. It also explores the complex moral dilemmas faced by the pilots and crew, adding layers to the narrative that elevate it above typical war dramas. The series’ pacing is deliberate, allowing for moments of introspection amid the chaos, which deepens the emotional impact.
In conclusion, *Masters of the Air* is a powerful and moving tribute to the unsung heroes of the skies. Its combination of historical accuracy, stunning visuals, and compelling storytelling makes it a must-watch for fans of war dramas and history buffs alike. Apple TV has once again proven its prowess in delivering top-tier original content, and *Masters of the Air* is a shining example of their commitment to quality storytelling.
With its emotionally charged narrative and breathtaking visuals, *Masters of the Air* earns a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. This series is not just a show—it’s an experience that honors the legacy of the brave airmen who risked everything for freedom.
Rating: 10/10
If you’re a fan of fantasy worlds filled with magic, talking beasts, and a storyline that feels like a reimagined “Beauty and the Beast,” *The Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts* is an anime you should not miss. Streaming on Crunchyroll, this underrated gem offers a fresh and engaging twist on the classic tale of love and sacrifice in a magical otherworld.
The anime takes place in a fantastical world where humans and beasts coexist in a fragile peace. The story follows Sariphi, a young girl who has been chosen as the 99th human sacrifice to the fearsome King of Beasts, Leonhart. However, instead of cowering in fear, Sariphi faces her fate with courage and empathy, qualities that intrigue the beastly king. As their relationship develops, Sariphi learns that Leonhart harbors a deep secret that could change the fate of both their worlds.
Sariphi, the protagonist, is a breath of fresh air in the world of anime heroines. Her unwavering kindness and bravery make her a relatable and admirable character. Leonhart, the King of Beasts, is a complex character whose tough exterior hides a heart full of vulnerability. The supporting cast, consisting of talking beasts and magical beings, adds depth and richness to the world-building, making every episode a visual and emotional treat.
The animation quality is top-notch, with beautiful, lush backgrounds that bring the magical world to life. The character designs, especially the talking beasts, are creative and detailed, adding to the fantastical atmosphere of the anime. The contrast between the dark, mysterious kingdom and the warmth of the characters’ interactions is visually striking and enhances the overall storytelling.
At its core, The Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts is a story about breaking down barriers, understanding the “other,” and the power of love to transform even the most hardened hearts. The anime explores themes of sacrifice, acceptance, and the courage to stand up against prejudice. It’s a story that resonates on many levels, making it more than just a simple fantasy tale.
With only one season and 24 episodes, *The Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts* is a binge-worthy series that delivers a compelling story, memorable characters, and a beautifully crafted world. While it may not have the mainstream popularity of other fantasy anime, it’s a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. If you’re into magical worlds, talking beasts, and stories with heart, this anime is a must-watch.
This series is a great find on Crunchyroll for those who crave a blend of fantasy, magic, and heartfelt storytelling. Don’t miss out on this enchanting adventure!
★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Red Cat Ramen or Ramen Akaneko is a captivating and unique anime that blends the worlds of culinary artistry and magical realism, now streaming on Crunchyroll. The series centers on Yashiro Tamako,
a young girl who has a dislike of cats and applies for a part-time position at a ramen joint run by cats.
The anime unfolds as Tamako and the cat staff embark on a journey to revive the struggling ramen shop, which has fallen out of favor with the locals. Each episode showcases a different cat and their interaction with Tamako through the intricate process of running the restaurant from daily cat brushings to customer service. Along the way, they encounter a cast of colorful characters, from rival chefs to eccentric food critics, each contributing to Tamako’s growth.
The story is not just about food; it’s about tradition, legacy, and the bonds that are forged through the act of cooking. The cat staff with their enigmatic personalities and vast wisdom, become both a mentors and friends to Tamako, helping her uncover the true essence of a restaurant.
Ramen Akaneko stands out in the anime world for its unique combination of culinary exploration and fantasy storytelling. The series is visually stunning, with each ramen dish meticulously animated to highlight the artistry involved in ramen-making. The anime doesn’t just stop at visuals; it delves deep into the cultural and emotional significance of ramen, offering viewers a rich, sensory experience.
The characters are well-developed, particularly Tamako, whose journey from a novice to a fully fledged staff member is both inspiring and relatable. The staff, with its mysterious aura, adds a layer of intrigue and depth to the story. Their dynamic relationship drives the narrative, making each episode feel like a new chapter in their evolving partnership.
Bunzo (文蔵)
Voiced by: Kenjiro Tsuda[3]
Sasaki (佐々木)
Voiced by: Noriaki Sugiyama[4]
Sabu (サブ)
Voiced by: Michiyo Murase[4]
Hana (ハナ)
Voiced by: Rie Kugimiya[4]
Krishna (クリシュナ, Kurishuna)
Voiced by: Saori Hayami[4]
Tamako Yashiro (社珠子, Yashiro Tamako)
Voiced by: Kurumi
The anime’s pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of light-hearted moments, intense culinary battles, and touching emotional scenes.
For fans of cooking anime, Ramen Akaneko is a feast for the senses. The attention to detail in the cooking sequences is impressive, and the way the show incorporates elements of fantasy makes it stand out from other food-themed anime. Whether you’re a ramen enthusiast, a fantasy lover, or just looking for a heartwarming story, Ramen Akaneko is a delightful watch that should be on your must-see list this year.
Ramen Akaneko is a beautifully crafted anime that offers more than just a visual feast. It’s a story of passion, perseverance, and the magic that happens when food is made with love and care. With its stunning animation, engaging characters, and heartwarming plot, this series is a must-watch for anime fans and foodies alike. Don’t miss out on this flavorful journey—head over to Crunchyroll and dive into the world of Ramen Akaneko.
Masters of the Air: A Gritty Tribute to the Heroes of the Skies
The Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts
Ramen Akaneko – A Flavorful Journey into Culinary Magic
Stan Against Evil Pop-up Video The Words Get Caught In My Mouth
Monkey Man Review
Everything we know about the Scrubs Reboot
Maxxxine goes to Hollywood
10 dark reasons why Friends doesn’t stand the test of time.
Hungry Hungry Hippos Fan Trailer
Cowboy Cartel on Apple TV – A Modern Western Thrill Ride
Comic-Con 2024: Arthur C Clarke’s Venus Prime TV series
Comic-Con 2024: Max Collins’s TRUE NOIR
Comic-Con 2024: Will Wight’s Cradle
Interview With Heroes & Villains Creative Director Doug Johnson
Thatsmye Interviews: Les Weiler on Henchin’: the Series
