What I loved most: The opening sequence - stunning!
What I really hated: The Evils of the Internet (just plain silly)
After the stunning opening sequence, this noble effort ultimately ends up unfocused and overlong. While the parts are played with touching conviction, the shrill critique of internet users and the media is sweeping and laughable in its silliness of presentation.
While it's a competent political/journalistic thriller, the writing from Tony Gilroy seems rather rote here, such that it's ultimately rather forgettable. The performances are good, it's just that nothing really stands out in the film.
What I loved most: The frightfully funny mixture of horror and comedy
What I really hated: Nothing
Sam Raimi has so much fun making this movie, that you can't help but get infected with his spirit. He skillfully balances and crafts every single moment, with uproarious gross-out laughs placed right next to jump scares. I normally hate cheap shocks, but then again, they're rarely as enjoyable as this.
What I really hated: Pacing lags slightly at times
Entertaining and thrilling documentary that inspires one to dream the impossible and to do it. Awe-inspiring archival footage of the actual walk, moving interview footage and gripping re-enactments keep everything moving along, and even though you know how it's going to end, you can't help but be captivated.
The only thing to recommend about this movie is the kinda cool action sequences. However, they're nothing you haven't seen before, and the package around them is simply badly-written trash packed with C-list actors.
It begins well, and the intense action sequences manage to distract for quite a fair bit of time. But eventually they'll be so exhausting you feel numb, and try to search for actual story - and that's where you'll find it wanting. Most of the cast don't get much to do, even Christian Bale. But even so, young actor Anton Yelchin again shows his mettle after Alpha Dog and Star Trek.
