Mom's Minute

Introduction to Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus Series Review

You may know by now that the sixth and final episode of Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus series has wrapped. If you did not watch the series in real-time as it aired for six weeks, you may want to watch all six episodes of Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi now on Disney Plus.

I watched the episodes of Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus series weekly as the events in the saga unfolded. Rather than review episode by episode, I decided to wait for the six episodes to end and review the complete series.

Now that all six episodes of Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus series have ended – what did I think about it? More importantly, would I recommend that you watch this Star Wars Disney Plus series?

Check out my Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus Series review to find out.

Synopsis of Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus Series

It’s important to note that the Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus series is considered a prequel to the other Star War movies that have since been released. Therefore, you get to discover what happens about ten years after both Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker were put up for adoption by Obi-Wan Kenobi shortly after birth and after the unfortunate passing of their mother, Padme Naberrie.

Unbeknownst to Obi-Wan Kenobi at the time, there had also been a dramatic change to Anakin Skywalker who he thought he had defeated. By this time, Anakin Skywalker had become the powerful villain from the dark side -- Darth Vader.

To recap the actions in the six-episode series of Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus series – most of the scenes are centered around Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi. The series starts off sharing with you Obi-Wan Kenobi’s daily life routine which is working, then returning home to his desert cave dwelling riding on his camel-like transport. Everything is hum-drum, until news of Obi-wan Kenobi being searched for got out. Specifically, word got out that Moses Ingram as Reva Sevander and her group was looking for a Jedi – who was of course Obi-Wan Kenoi.

The events in the series escalates where the search for Obi-Wan Kenobi intensifies and includes him seeking refuge on a spaceship full of people.

The backstory is that in the meantime, 10 year old Princess Leia, played by Vivien Lyra Blair, has been kidnapped. Other actions include the appearance of young Luke Skywalker, her 10 year old brother living in his desert habitat with his adopted parents.

Of note here is that during the six episodes of Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus series, Princess Leia and her brother, Luke Skywalker did not meet since the series focus was on Obi-Wan Kenobi and not strictly the children.

Also worth noting here is that Princess Leia lives in a more upscale-type environment than her brother Luke Skywalker who does daily chores on a sparse desert farm.

However, the major event that everyone is probably waiting for is the matchup between Anakin Skywalker who is now Darth Vader and his previous Jedi Master, Obi-Wan Kenobi. 

Action and Events in Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus Series

Looking back on the Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus series now that it has ended, I've come to the conclusion that the action scenes including fights with lightsabers were few and far between.

 It appears the writer placed more emphasis on the drama segments and interrelationships between the characters, with a few spaceship battles thrown in. 

Therefore you will explore Obi-Wan Kenobi's connection with Princess Lea as he attempts to rescue her and keep her safe as well as his connection with Luke Skywalker and his mother and father.

Characters in the Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus Series

In addition to fan favorite characters such as Obi-Wan Kenobi, Darth Vader, Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker, a new hodgepodge of villains as well as other characters appear in the series. The villains’ sole purpose seems to be to capture the remaining Jedi, Obi-Wan Kenobi. 

In my opinion, none of these characters stood out to me, including the lead villain Reva Sevander played by Monique Denise Ingram known professionally as Moses Ingram. I found her portrayal as a villain not to be as intimidating as she was probably meant to be. In fact, as I watched her act, it was obvious to me that she was – well, acting – which by the way, is not a good thing. 

If you would like to experience how a true villan acts realistically, check out my movie review of Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness where Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch shows off her acting chops in this type role.

On a positive note, the most genuine characters I found in the Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus series were Ewan McGregar as Obi-wan Kenobi and Hayden Christensen as the formidable Darth Vader. The other characters appeared to me as fluff to add content to the Disney Plus series, Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Recommendations for Obi-Wan Kenobi Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus Series

I believe the audience is probably more interested in the relationship between Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker-Darth Vader. So these two characters should at a bare minimum be the center of most of the scenes in the Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus series.

I believe this was accomplished with the appearance of Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi who has screen-time in just about every scene of the series. However, there is a visible lack of appearances of Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker.

I suggest more flashback scenes showing how they once had great comrady together which could include lots of appearances of Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywaler and Ewan McGregor as, of course,  Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Spoiler Alert: It was disappointing to me that the audience had to wait until episode 4 of the series to get a brief glimpse of Anakin Skywalker and that the most appearances of Hayden Chritensen as Anakin Skywalker was in Episode 5 towards the end of the series.

The final episode six showed adequate appearances of both Hayden Christensen as Darth Vader, but I think all through the series, there should have been more focus on these two characters – Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker and Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Assessment of Star Wars Obi Wan Kenobi Disney Plus Series

Like me, you may have watched several interviews with Anakin Skywalker outside of the series since his appearances were few and far between in Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus feature. I give well-deserved kudos to Hayden Christensen for participating in the promotional media interviews before and after the Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney Plus series aired.

If you are a true fan of Star Wars Anakin Skywalker, even before he turned to the dark side, you may watch some of the older Star Wars movies, that includes not only Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker and Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi, but also you may want to watch again the Star Wars movies where the mother of Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker -- Padme Naberrie as played by the actor Natalie Portman makes appearances.

With that being said, I recommend you watch the six-episode series of Disney Plus Star Wars Obi-Wan Kenobi. I believe you will enjoy the lightsaber action scenes as well as be interested to find out what happens  to Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker in the ten-year span since they last saw Obi-Wan Kenobi. You may also enjoy the minimal appearance in the series of Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker/Dath Vader as he faces once again his previous leader and Jedi Master – Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Rating of Star Wars Obi Wan Kenobi Disney Plus Series

Based on a rating of 1 star to 5 stars with 5 stars being the highest, I rate Star Wars Obi Wan Kenobi Disney Plus series 4 stars.

Introduction to Collision Netflix Movie Review

There is a movie series currently showing on Netflix entitled “You Don’t Know Me.” I will review this Netflix series when I’ve finished watching all of the episodes. 

I am mentioning the above to say that if you decide to watch the Netflix series “You Don’t Know Me,” you may want to space out the time between watching Collision, due to some of the similarities between the two. In other words details from one movie may become meshed with the other.

That being said, I will review the Collision Netflix movie prior to the “You Don’t Know Me Netflix series”. Like me, you may discover some similarities between the two Netflix films if you watch them both.

Without further ado, here is my movie review of the South African Netflix film Collision. 

Synopsis of Collision Netflix Movie

The Collision Netflix movie plot centers around several different characters, each with their own personal backstory. There are several plots in the movie including an unknown singer’s quest to hit the big time with the guidance of his friend; a rebellious wealthy young woman who stays at home with her parents and regularly disobeys their rules,  and last but not least, the kidnapping of said young woman and the frantic steps taken by the parents to find her, even though she was thought to be held captive by a ruthless criminal.

The wealthy mother and father of the daughter are played by Tessa Jubber as Diane Greser and Langley Kirkwood as John Greser respectively. The rebellious daughter is played by Zoey Sneedon as Nicki Gresser. The ruthless criminal is played by Bonko Khoza as Larry.

I believe the backstories of the main characters were expertly revealed in the Collision Netflix movie. The writers even took the time to share the backstory of the ruthless criminal which includes a poignant scene with him visiting his elderly mother at her home and promising to come back to see her the next day.  Did he? You will have to watch the Netflix movie Collision to find out.

Beginning Scenes in Collision Netflix Movie

The film starts with a scene from the last segment of the Collision Netflix movie, then back-tracks to the beginning of the story. It was interesting to me how the movie returned to where the movie started and you find out there is more to this particular scene than you expected.

Twists and Turns in Collision Netflix Movie

The major twist and turn in the Collision Netflix movie occurs towards the end of the film after the young woman has been kidnapped for a while. Zoey Sneedon’s character as the kidnapped victim, Nicki Greser has a conversation with her kidnapper that you would not expect. However, since of course the kidnapper is a criminal-minded character, that situation did not turn out as she expected which resulted in her appearing in a gruesome scene towards the end of the Netflix movie, Collision.

Poor Decisions Made During Collision Netflix Movie

If you watch the Netflix Collision movie, you may realize how incidents can start out small then gradually escalate to situations that seem to be beyond everyone’s control. As expected, you may come to the conclusion that the impetus behind the poor decisions was greed at all levels. You may see how a seemingly innocent opportunity for an up and coming singer, ended up in a blackmail scheme by the opportunity-giver demanding a character compromise his friend’s trust which ultimately resulted in the kidnapping and maybe even worse.

Stand Out Scene in Collision Netflix Movie

Spoiler Alert:  If you are a proponent of equal opportunity for all, you will probably enjoy watching the conversation between the father character (John Greser) who was sure that he had gotten a promotion until he finds out the job was given to an African woman. When he confronts her as she was getting in her car in a parking garage in a derogatory manner, she firmly held her ground and gave him comeback lines that he was probably not expecting. I give kudos to the writers of this particular scene, because I think the dialogue was well-written and expertly executed by the actors.

Assessment of Collision Netflix Movie

Sometimes when I watch a movie such as the Netflix film Collision, I surmise as to how the situations could have been circumvented from the start – even if the scenarios involve bad guys. For example, what if the wealthy daughter respected her parents wishes and followed their rules, instead of constantly telling untruths and sneaking around. Also, what if the agent for his friend the singer had decided not to have him accept a job singing at the ruthless criminal’s club in the first place. There may be other situations as well.  

The above being said, I believe the Collision Netflix movie is one that may be worth your time. There are several lessons to be learned from this movie, even though it is a fictional story. What are these lessons? I will leave that up for you to decide if you choose to watch the Collision Netflix movie.

Rating of Collision Netflix Movie

Based on a rating of 1 star to 5 stars with 5 stars being the highest, I rate the Collision Netflix Movie 4 stars.

Introduction to Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Movie Review

Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness movie is currently streaming on Disney Plus.  Of course, when I found out Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness movie was streaming free on Disney Plus, I did not hesitate to watch it.

What do I really think about the Marvel movie, Doctor Strange in the Multivers of Madness? Were there any negatives about the film? Check out my movie review of Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse movie to find out.

Synopsis of Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Movie

The plot of Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness movie is rather simple and straightforward. A young girl (Xochiti Gomez as America Chavez) has the power necessary to give the villain, Scarlet Witch, also known as Wanda Moximoff, what she wishes for. However, if the power is taken, it will lead to the demise of the young girl.

Enter Doctor Strange to rescue or save Xochitl Gomez’a character from the power-seeking villain, Scarlet Witch, who seems difficult to defeat. By the way Scarlet Witch - Wanda Maximoff is played by Elizabeth Olsen and Doctor Strange is played by Benedict Cumberbatch. Doctor Strange 's romantic interest is played by Rachel McAdams as Christine Palmer.

 There are multiple versions of the characters as they travel to and from many multiverses – some which seem to be advanced in technology, and others that appear to be of a dark nature.  In fact, in one multiverse, there is a version of Doctor Strange who is defending what is called the dark hole where he lives in a haunted-looking mansion.

In the midst of the above scenarios, there are numerous monsters the characters have to contend with – not counting the explosions that seemed to meet them at every turn in most of the multiverses.

The Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness movie is in no way comparable to the film I recently reviewed which involves multiverses -- Everything, Everywhere, All At Once.  The Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness film far exceeds Everything, Everywhere, All At Once movie in storylines, actions and quality by a long shot.

Characters in Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Movie 

Since the main character in the movie is Doctor Stephen Strange, I was sure the bulk of the actions would center around him. Doctor Strange gets a lot of screen-time; however, to my satisfaction, plenty of the characters has sizable roles in the Marvel movie, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness film – including  Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch or Wanda Moximoff.

Speaking of Scarlet Witch, I applaud the writers for giving her such a large role in the Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness movie. My interest levels in the movie peaked whenever she was on screen and displayed her superpowers – even though as a villain, her powers were detrimental to some.

Spoiler Alert: A plus for the movie is the omission of a big scene at the end with the two most powerful characters having a battle. However, this omission did not take away from the film, Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. I think the culmination of the actions ended as it should. You will know what I’m referring to if you watch Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness film.

Use of Imagination in Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Movie

In the Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness movie, you may be amazed at some of the imaginative scenes in the film. As you probably know, most of the visuals are using green screens as well as Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI). However, the technology was used in such a way that, in my opinion, it did not distract from the overall storyline of the film, Marvel Doctor Strange Multiverse of Madness.

Of note is the movie delving into the dark hole, where, as you probably guessed it, flying zombie-looking creatures and other monster images are displayed to show off the setting of this particular universe. As a side note, I watched this movie late at night and thankfully did not have any nightmares from the evil-looking characters that were shown. 

Negatives in  Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Movie

I noticed there were little to no suspense, per se in the film, Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multivere of Madness. The seemingly never-ending action scenes along with the monsters, magic, and abundance of CGI used in Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness movie more than made up for the lack of suspense.

You may have to listen closely, but Doctor Strange’s character spoke a few profane words during certain scenes, which I was not a fan of.

Also, as a superhero, it would seem to me that Doctor Strange would have some device, instrument, etc. to help him execute his magic instead of his cloak and motions of his hands. However the movie is based on a comic book character, so it’s understandable the film would follow the comic book’s rendition of Doctor Strange as closely as possible.

Just so you know, the above did not negatively impact my enjoyment or rating of Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness movie.

Assessment of Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multivers of Madness Movie

Beyond a shadow of a doubt, Disney Plus made it worth my subscription by adding the Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness film to its lineup of free movies. I felt like I got my money’s worth and more by being able to enjoy this movie by using their streaming service. 

If you have Disney Plus, you may want to check out Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness movie. If you prefer to watch it on the big screen, this may be an option, as the movie may be playing at your local movie theater.  

Whichever way you view the film Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness movie, I’m sure you may enjoy watching it just as much as I did.

Rating of Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Movie

Based on a rating of 1 star to 5 stars with 5 stars being the highest, I rate Marvel Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness movie 5 stars.

Introduction to Spiderhead Netflix Movie Review

It’s interesting to me that Chris Hemsworth managed to make a cameo appearance in his wife’s Elsa Pataky film, Interceptor, but vice versa did not happen. Ummmm….wonder why? Could it be that his wife’s film was not taken as seriously as his new Netflix movie, Spiderhead? Or as the bigger movie personality, he gets to pick which movies he will appear in as a cameo? Or maybe he thought he was doing his wife a favor by appearing in the movie, Interceptor.

Regardless of the sometimes double standards in movie-making, you may be wondering if the Spiderhead Netflix movie is worth watching. Check out my movie review of the Netflix Spiderhead film to find out.

Synopsis of Spiderhead Netflix Movie

The Netflix movie, Spiderhead stars Chris Hemsworth. The film takes place at a fictional laboratory facility that uses volunteer prisoners for experimental drugs. The pharmaceutical scientist at the Spiderhead facility is Steve Abnesi as played by Chris Hemsworth.

The  trade-off for prisoners who volunteer to participate in experimental drugs usage at the facility, Spiderhead, is to experience more freedom at the laboratory than in jail. However, unbeknownst to them, the experimental drug usage may have a much dire and devastating effect on them than the harsh prison environments.

Realism of Spiderhead Netflix Movie

Since this is a science fiction-type movie based on the short story Escape from Spiderhead by George Saunders – realism is not to be expected. However, there are events that transpire in the Netflix movie, Spiderhead that may have you asking questions. For example, of all the prisoners participating in this experimental drug project, why was Miles Teller chosen to be the main character in the film? 

Towards the middle of the movie, you may have even more questions. For instance why would Miles Teller’s character be interested in who owns the pharmaceutical company, and even more importantly, why did Miles Teller’s character become sort of an investigative detective in this movie? You may notice other unrealistic parts of the Netflix film, Spiderhead as well.

Chris Hemsworth as the Main Character in Spiderhead Netflix Movie

If you are a Marvel, Thor or Avengers movie fan, you may also be a Chris Hemsworth’s fan. Usually Chris Hemsworth as Thor or an Avenger, plays the part of the hero – fighting crimes and defeating villains, etc.

By contrast, Chris Hemsworth is playing a totally different character in the Netflix movie, Spiderhead. In fact, the Spiderhead Netflix movie is a far cry from any of the Marvel movies. In other words, Chris Hemsworth's character is absolutely not the heroic type in this film. You will know why I'm mentioning this fact if you watch the Netflix movie, Spiderhead.

However, I have to tip my hat to Chris Hemsworth for doing a good job portraying the main character in the Netflix Spiderhead movie. Initially, I wasn’t sure if his character was going to be humorous in the storylines, or if this was a serious role for Chris Hemsworth. In going with the flow, Chris Hemsworth managed to play both sides of this character's personality in the Netflix movie, Spiderhead.

Bottom line, despite a few humorous lines by Chris Hemsworth, he played a serious scientist character who definitely was not in the business of helping people. You will find out his actual motive if you watch the Netflix movie, Spiderhead.

Assessment of Spiderhead Netflix Movie

To give credit to Chris Hemsworth, I believe his character actually carried the show. Without the malicious, conniving and dishonest character Chris Hemsworth played, the movie would have simply been about a hum-drum story with prisoners being given experimental drugs.

If I were to rewatch one of the latest Netflix movies, I would choose to rewatch the Hustle film over Spiderhead, mainly because I found the former movie not only entertaining, but inspiring as well. Unfortunately, I am unable to say the same for the Netflix Spiderhead movie. Of course these films are of  different genres – one being a sports drama, while the other is a science fiction film. Regardless, I would choose Hustle over Spiderhead.

If you are a Marvel, Avengers, or super heroes movie fan, I think you may enjoy watching the Netflix film Spiderhead simply because it stars Chris Hemsworth. If you decide to watch the Netflix Spiderhead movie, I do not believe you will be disappointed. Afterall, Chris Hemsworth is an A-List actor and he delivered on his performance in the Netflix movie, Spiderhead.

Rating of Spiderhead Netfix Movie

Based on a rating of 1 star to 5 stars with 5 stars being the highest, I rate the Netflix Spiderhead movie 3 stars. 

Introduction to The Rental: A Netflix Movie Review

It has been some time since I’ve reviewed a movie that follows a similar plot as “The Cabin in the Woods” film. By this, I mean a film where the movie’s scenarios involve a group of people who take a vacation to a remote location in the woods, or some  other isolated area. Oftentimes, mysteriously, one by one, the characters in these type movies seem to meet with destruction. As an audience viewer, one may try to figure out beforehand who, if any, will make it out alive and well.

In fact, the last film I reviewed with a similar plot was another Netflix movie, The Edge of Fear.

Specifically, the film with The Cabin in the Woods theme that I happened upon is the Netflix movie, The Rental. Did this movie live up to the original “The Cabin in the Woods” movie, or did it fall short?

Check out my movie review of The Rental Netflix film to find out.

Synopsis of The Rental Netflix Movie

As I alluded to above, the story centers around a group of people – four to be exact, who decide to take a weekend vacation at an Airbnb with no neighboring houses and lots of trees nearby.  

The four main actors in the Netflix The Rental movie are Dan Stevens as Charlie; Alison Brie as Charlie’s wIfe – Michelle; and Sheila Vand as Josh’s girlfriend, Mina. Mina  is also a coworker of Charlie's. Last but not least The Rental Netflix movie stars Jeremy Allen White as Josh, brother to Charlie and the boyfriend of the character, Mina. 

It’s important to note the interrelationships of the characters above, especially Charlie's and Mina's connection as co-workers.

Once at their Airbnb vacation spot, they meet the handyman who looks rather unsavory, hence the group is suspicious about him from the start.

To make a long story short, the storyline is jovial at first with the group having fun and laughs, until the dog that they illegally brought to the property went missing. 

However, the plot thickens when illicit indiscretions occur between married Charlie’s and single Mina’s character which they thought was kept secret. 

Suspense in The Rental Netflix Movie

The storyline is crafted to keep the audience guessing as to who will be the destroyer, so to speak in The Rental Netflix movie. 

I think the writer did a good job of trying to lead the audience to think they know who this person is. You will find out who the culprit is if you watch The Rental movie on Netflix.

Lack of Surveillance knowledge Displayed During The Rental Netflix Movie

You have probably seen many videos or visuals that show where people are sometimes unknowingly spied upon –  whether this is being done at a hotel or somewhere else. In other words, you have probably heard the term, “Big brother is watching.”

This is why it behooves me to think that the couple who committed their indiscretions was not aware there may be hidden cameras in the house. After the hidden camera was discovered, they both frantically searched for the main transmitter in order to try to destroy it, or to keep the camera's footage from being viewed. Did they find the main transmitter?  You have to watch The Rental movie on Netflix to find out.

The Cabin in the Woods Angle of The Rental Netflix Movie

I will not spoil the film for you just in case you plan to watch it. However, suffice it to say that similar to events that occurred in The Cabin in the Woods movie, one by one sinister things happened to the characters vacationing at the Airbnb. 

You may be curious as to who survived. You may also be wondering who was the culprit behind the unfortunate incidents happening to the characters. You will find out should you watch the Netflix movie, The Rental.

Assessment of The Rental Netflix Movie

In The Rental Netflix movie, I enjoyed watching the comradery between all the characters at the start of the movie.  However, this was short-lived and the happy-go-lucky dynamics did not last long due to events that happened later in the movie.  

The above being said, if you are a fan of these type films, I think it may be worth your while to check out The Rental Netflix movie. Also The Rental Netflix movie is not overly long -- lasting only 1 hour and 28 minutes, so it should not take up too much of your time.

However and in my opinion, this movie fell just a little short of the original Cabin in the Woods film. Still, I think The Rental Netflix movie is one that may keep your interest.

 Even though The Rental Netflix movie’s storyline is fictitious, this film may alert you to always be aware of your surroundings and there is one more important thing you need to check should you decide to take a vacation in someone else’s house.

Rating of The Rental Netflix Movie

Based on a rating of 1 star to 5 stars with 5 stars being the highest, I rate The Rental Netflix movie 3 stars.