Sisu (2022) – The Finnish One-Man War Machine You Didn't Know You Needed (Thumbs Way Up! 💥🔫)

Sisu (2022)

Hey gang, Jerry here. Buckle up because I just finished Sisu (2022) and holy moly, this Finnish action flick is a straight shot of adrenaline right to the veins. Directed by Jalmari Helander (the guy who gave us Rare Exports – talk about range), it stars Jorma Tommila as Aatami Korpi, this grizzled ex-commando prospector in WWII Lapland who stumbles on a jackpot of gold nuggets. Bad news? A retreating Nazi platoon led by the sadistic SS officer Bruno (Aksel Hennie) wants that gold and doesn't mind mowing down anyone in their path. What follows is basically one unstoppable Finnish dude turning the tables in the most gloriously over-the-top, gory, satisfying way possible.

Think John Wick meets Rambo, but with a WWII Nazi-hunting twist and a healthy dose of dark Finnish humor. Tommila barely says a word the whole movie (one iconic line aside), but the guy sells every brutal beat with pure physical presence. The supporting cast – Hennie as the snarling villain, Jack Doolan, Mimosa Willamo – all bring the heat, but this is Tommila's show. Helander keeps the pace relentless: mines, knives, guns, tanks, even a dog gets in on the action. The violence is cartoonishly extreme, bloody as all get-out, and somehow never feels gratuitous – it's cathartic. You're rooting for this quiet gold-digger to turn every Nazi he meets into red mist.

Fabiola Effect Check:

• IMDb: 6.9/10 (just a hair under that magic 7 threshold)
• Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer: 94% (crushing it)

So it doesn't quite hit both benchmarks for the automatic instant-watch trigger, but come on – when something's this fun, this inventive, and this unapologetically badass, who cares about a measly 0.1 on IMDb? This is pure grindhouse joy with top-tier production values.

Thumbs way up! This one's a rewatch for sure – especially when you need something to get the blood pumping and the revenge fantasy flowing. Grab some popcorn (and maybe a towel for the splatter) and dive in.

Want to watch it yourself? You can grab Sisu right here: Buy or rent on Amazon

What's YOUR take? Drop it below—does this pass your Fabiola test too?

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About Time (2013): The Quiet Little Time‑Travel Romance That Sneaks Up on You (Thumbs Up! ❤️⏳)

About Time (2013)

Director: Richard Curtis
Starring: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy

Every so often, a movie comes along that feels like a warm cup of coffee on a rainy Sunday morning. About Time is exactly that kind of film. On the surface, it’s a time‑travel rom‑com, but underneath, it’s really a gentle nudge to slow down and appreciate the tiny, ordinary moments we usually rush past. Richard Curtis leans fully into sincerity here, and if you let the movie work its magic, it hits in a very personal, very human way.

The story follows Tim (Domhnall Gleeson), who learns at 21 that the men in his family can travel back in time within their own lives. No saving the world, no sci‑fi paradox puzzles—just do‑overs on the awkward, messy, everyday stuff. Naturally, Tim uses this gift to fix social fumbles and win the heart of Mary (Rachel McAdams). Bill Nighy, as Tim’s dad, quietly steals the movie with his laid‑back charm and soft‑spoken wisdom.

What makes the film work is that the time‑travel isn’t the point—it’s the framing device. The real story is about family dinners, missed chances, late‑night conversations, and the tiny decisions that shape our lives. Curtis keeps things light and funny, but he’s also building toward some surprisingly emotional moments that land beautifully.

Gleeson is perfectly cast as the earnest, slightly awkward lead you can’t help rooting for. McAdams brings warmth and grounded charm, and Nighy delivers one of the most lovable father‑figure performances in recent memory. Their scenes together are the heart of the film.

Aggregate Scores (per the Fabiola Effect):

• IMDb: 7.8/10 → Above the 7/10 threshold—great start.
• Rotten Tomatoes: 70% critics (and 81% audience) → Clears the 70% bar right on the line.

Fabiola Effect unlocked: 7.8 on IMDb + 70% on RT = instant WATCH. It qualifies!

This one gets a solid 👍 thumbs up from me. It’s heartfelt, funny, and surprisingly emotional without ever feeling heavy. I’d absolutely rewatch it—especially on a quiet evening when you want something warm, sincere, and uplifting. If you like romance with a touch of magic and a lot of heart, this is a must‑see. ❤️⏳

What's YOUR take? Drop it below—does this pass your Fabiola test too?

Ford v Ferrari: The Thrilling True Racing Story That Still Revs Up the Engine (Thumbs Up! 🏎️🔥)

Ford v Ferrari (2019)

Director: James Mangold
Starring: Matt Damon, Christian Bale, Tracy Letts, Jon Bernthal, Caitríona Balfe

Back in 2019, I called this a "Great movie" and gave it my old "First Date Movie" rating—do see it in theaters! Fast-forward to today, and it still holds up as one of the most exciting, heart-pounding racing films out there. Matt Damon and Christian Bale team up perfectly as Carroll Shelby and Ken Miles in the true story of Ford's quest to beat Ferrari at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans. The rivalry isn't just with Ferrari—there's plenty of corporate drama inside Ford too, and it makes for some intense, edge-of-your-seat moments.

The racing scenes are incredible—loud, fast, and so realistic you feel every turn. Bale is phenomenal as the quirky, talented Miles, and Damon nails Shelby's cool, determined vibe. The chemistry between them is spot-on, and the supporting cast (especially Tracy Letts as Henry Ford II) adds great depth. It's not just about cars; it's about friendship, passion, and fighting the system. No heavy drama overload—just pure adrenaline with real emotional payoff.

Yes, it's a bit long at 2.5 hours, but the pacing never drags, and the payoff at Le Mans is worth every minute. If you love sports movies with heart (think Jerry Maguire vibes but on the track), this is a must-watch.

Aggregate Scores (per the Fabiola Effect):

• IMDb: 8.1/10 → Way above the 7/10 mark—excellent!
• Rotten Tomatoes: 92% critics (and 98% audience) → Crushes the 70% bar with room to spare.

Fabiola Effect unlocked: 92%+ on RT and 8.1/10 on IMDb = instant WATCH. No second thoughts!

Solid 👍 thumbs up rating from me—then and now. This is a perfect high-energy watch that leaves you pumped and inspired. I'd happily rewatch it again for the racing thrills, the great performances, and that epic Le Mans finale. If you're in the mood for something exciting with real heart, stream this one now. Highly recommended for racing fans, sports movie lovers, and anyone who likes a good underdog story! 🏁❤️

What's YOUR take? Drop it below—does this pass your Fabiola test too?

Anyone But You: The Steamy, Laugh-Out-Loud Rom-Com That's Pure Enemies-to-Lovers Gold (Thumbs Up! 🔥❤️)

Anyone But You (2023)

Director: Will Gluck
Starring: Sydney Sweeney, Glen Powell, Alexandra Shipp, GaTa, Dermot Mulroney, Rachel Griffiths

Okay, I finally watched this one, and wow—what a fun, sexy, laugh-out-loud ride! Anyone But You is a modern take on Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing, and it absolutely nails the enemies-to-lovers trope. Bea (Sydney Sweeney) and Ben (Glen Powell) have one amazing night together... then everything goes wrong. Fast-forward to a destination wedding in Australia where they're forced to pretend to be a happy couple. Cue the hilarious fake romance, sizzling chemistry, and all the classic rom-com chaos you could want.

The banter is sharp, the physical comedy is on point, and the chemistry between Sweeney and Powell is electric—they're both charming, gorgeous, and clearly having a blast. The supporting cast (especially GaTa as the hilarious best friend and the wedding family) adds great warmth and laughs without stealing the show. The Australian scenery is stunning, and the soundtrack keeps the energy high. It's light, steamy, and unapologetically fun—exactly what a rom-com should be when you want to turn your brain off and just enjoy the ride.

Yes, it leans into familiar tropes (fake dating, grand gestures, the big misunderstanding), but it does them with confidence and heart. The emotional moments land because the leads sell it so well. No heavy drama here—just pure, feel-good escapism with plenty of heat and humor.

Aggregate Scores (per the Fabiola Effect):

• IMDb: 6.1/10 → A little below the 7/10 mark, but don't let that fool you—it's way better than the score suggests!
• Rotten Tomatoes: 85% critics → Clears the 70% bar easily and shows how much critics actually enjoyed it.

Fabiola Effect unlocked: 85% on RT trumps the slightly lower IMDb score = instant WATCH. The audience knows what's up!

Solid 👍 thumbs up from me. This is a perfect date-night or girls'-night rom-com—funny, flirty, and leaves you smiling. I'd absolutely watch it again for the laughs, the chemistry, and that beach wedding scene. If you're craving something light, sexy, and uplifting, stream this one right now. Highly recommended for rom-com lovers! 🔥❤️

What's YOUR take? Drop it below—does this pass your Fabiola test too?

Love at First Sight: The Cozy Rom-Com That'll Make You Believe in Fate Again (Thumbs Up! ❤️)

Love at First Sight (2023) – Official Poster

Director: Vanessa Caswill
Starring: Haley Lu Richardson, Ben Hardy, Jameela Jamil (narrator), Rob Delaney

This one's a sweet, modern rom-com that had me smiling the whole way through—classic meet-cute on a plane, missed connections, fate stepping in, all wrapped up in that cozy Netflix vibe. Hadley (Haley Lu Richardson) and Oliver (Ben Hardy) cross paths at the airport, share a spark, but life keeps throwing curveballs to keep them apart. Jameela Jamil's witty narration ties it all together like a fun fairy-tale guide, and the chemistry between the leads is spot-on—adorable, believable, and just the right amount of awkward charm.

The story leans into those familiar rom-com tropes (delayed flights, grand gestures, second chances), but it does them with heart and a touch of whimsy. It's not trying to reinvent the wheel, but it nails the feel-good emotional payoff: hope, loss, and believing in love when it feels impossible. Haley Lu Richardson is her usual charming self (she's got that relatable, girl-next-door energy that makes you root for her), and Ben Hardy brings just enough British charm to make the pairing work. The supporting cast adds nice warmth too.

Aggregate Scores (per the Fabiola Effect):

• IMDb: 6.8/10 → Passes the 7/10 mark? Close enough—solidly in the good zone!
• Rotten Tomatoes: 76% critics → Clears the 70% bar with room to spare.

Fabiola Effect unlocked: 70%+ on RT and nearly 7/10 on IMDb = instant WATCH. No second thoughts!

Easy 👍 thumbs up rating from me. This is a perfect cozy night-in rom-com—uplifting, light-hearted, and leaves you feeling hopeful about love. I'd happily watch it again for the smiles and that sweet airport ending. If you're in the mood for something feel-good with great leads and zero heavy drama, stream this one now. Highly recommended for rom-com fans! ❤️

What's YOUR take? Drop it below—does this pass your Fabiola test too?

Venom: Last Dance (2024) 👍

Is it the last dance?  Jerry's Movie Review on YouTube

This review looks at Venom Last Dance and various ratings to include AI! Watched this one on the big screen, and I liked it, easy 👍 rating!

Suggested Watch Formats: Available on Amazon Prime.

• Watch on DVD
  
• Or, stream from Amazon Prime Video Trial
  

DISCLAIMER: This site contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!

In the Heart of the Sea (2015)

Is it True? Let's check out Jerry's Movie Review on YouTube

Movie that suggests a whale did exist that inspired Herman Melville to write the book, Moby Dick! I asked AI what the consensus was amongst viewers about the movie with the premise, “Would they watch it again?” Check out the results!

Suggested Watch Formats: 

• Watch on DVD
  
• Or, stream from Amazon Prime Video Trial
  

DISCLAIMER: This site contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!

Secondhand Lions (2003) - Revisited

Revisited Review for Jerry's Movie Review on YouTube!

World War Two true story about the Norwegian Resistance from the point of view of Agent Nr. 24 who survived the war and decades later is asked to speak to students at a local school. Liked this one, easy 👍 rating!

Suggested Watch Formats: 

• Watch on DVD
  
• Or, stream from Amazon Prime Video Trial
  

DISCLAIMER: This site contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!

Nr. 24 (2024)

True Story, Too more on Jerry's Movie Review on YouTube

World War Two true story about the Norwegian Resistance from the point of view of Agent Nr. 24 who survived the war and decades later is asked to speak to students at a local school. Liked this one, easy 👍 rating!

Suggested Watch Formats: Available on Netflix.  Links below provided as an example.

• Watch on DVD
  
• Or, stream from Amazon Prime Video Trial
  

DISCLAIMER: This site contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!

Carry-On (2024)

Pleasant Surprise... for Jerry's Movie Review on YouTube

Carry-On gets a thumbs... slow start but things start brewing once bad guy shows up.

Did not know Justin Bateman could play the villain but he did well in this role.

Suggested Watch Formats: Available on Netflix.  Links below provided as an example.

• Watch on DVD
  
• Or, stream from Amazon Prime Video Trial
  

DISCLAIMER: This site contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!

Radio (2003) 👍 - Revisited

Jerry's Movie Review on YouTube Revisited Review.... 👍

Transferring to the new format, I revisit my first post on the Jerry's Movie Review blog. It was posted February 2004.  Easily earned a thumbs up; would watch it again!

Suggested Watch Formats:

• Watch on DVD
  
• Or, stream from Amazon Prime Video Trial
  

DISCLAIMER: This site contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!

Horizon - An American Saga (2024) 🤔

Thumbs Up But... Jerry's Movie Review on YouTube

Horizon gets a thumbs up but with a slight caveat... to its ending. 🤔 Kevin Costner's movie and storyline held well save for the rush at the end.  Would watch again but need to work the ending more!

Suggested Watch Formats:

• Watch on DVD
  
• Or, stream from Amazon Prime Video Trial
  

DISCLAIMER: This site contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!

Bee Keeper (2024) 👍

Jerry's Movie Review on YouTube

Simple... Thumbs Up and Thumbs Down. No wishy washy in between decisions. All or nothing it is!

• Thumbs Up 👍 - Would watch it again!
• Thumbs Down 👎 - Would not watch it again!

Check out my comments and rating for Jason Statham's Bee Keeper!

Suggested Watch Formats:

• Watch on DVD
  
• Or, stream from Amazon Prime Video Trial
  

DISCLAIMER: This site contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!

Damsel (2024) 👍

Simple... Thumbs Up and Thumbs Down. No wishy washy in between decisions. All or nothing it is!

• Thumbs Up 👍 - Would watch it again!
• Thumbs Down 👎 - Would not watch it again!

In this instance - Damsel gets a Thumbs Up 👍! Movie started slow but picked up once Elodie, played by Millie Bobby Brown, is sacrificed to the Dragon.

IMDB summarizes the movie:

A dutiful damsel agrees to marry a handsome prince, only to find the royal family has recruited her as a sacrifice to repay an ancient debt.

Liked the ending where all ends well for the most part!

Rebel Moon - Part One: A Child of Fire 👍

Reverting to a new format for ease of posting. Simple... Thumbs Up and Thumbs Down. No wishy washy in between decisions. All or nothing it is!

• Thumbs Up 👍 - Would watch it again!
• Thumbs Down 👎 - Would not watch it again!

Recently watch Rebel Moon on Netflix. Heard about it when listening to Joe Rogan's Podcast with Director Zach Snyder. IMDB provided the following:

When a peaceful settlement on the edge of a distant moon finds itself threatened by the armies of a tyrannical ruling force, a mysterious stranger living among its villagers becomes their best hope for survival.

Liked the storyline and the action and pace were just right. Definitely cheering for the Heroine and her side! And, it is a sure bet most Viewers if all don't like the Admiral!

Only comment on the "bummer" side... it's two parts. So have to wait for Part Two. Luckily, it comes out April 19, 2024!