Movie Reviews

Film and television reviewed the way I’d want to read them — with a rating that means something, an honest accounting of what works and what doesn’t, and craft notes for writers who want to understand how the machinery operates.

Each review includes a craft notes section for writers — specific observations about structure, character, world-building, and what the film does that you can actually use. Not theory. Technique you can steal.

Military (2)

Basic 2003 reviewMay 18, 2026

Basic (2003)

2003 John McTiernan military thriller with Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson. Rashomon-style investigation of a Panama training accident.

Taps 1981 reviewMay 18, 2026

Taps (1981)

1981 military academy drama with George C. Scott and a young Tom Cruise. Cadets seize their school when closure threatens their way of life.

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