Snatch (2000) - 5/5

This movie is crass, dark, crime comedy that is a glorious thing to behold. The script is tightly woven, interconnecting the plot lines with comedic aplomb. Everyone is chewing the scenery at the same time, rising to a hilarious crescendo, each beat right on cue. It’s the quintessential cockney crime comedy, and even after twenty years it hasn’t lost its bite.

Content warning: female nudity, language

Closest comparison: It has the narrative complexity of Crash (2004) crossed with the criminal underground of Shopping (1994).

Setting: Crime
Plot: Thriller
Tone: Dark Screwball Comedy

Iron Mask (2019) - 2/5

This movie is bafflingly well-produced for its low-tier plot, effects, and acting. It somehow alternates between over- and under-acting, with effects and sets that feel like Big Trouble In Little China. The costuming and style is great, but it can’t save this movie’s campiness.

Closest comparison: It’s like Jupiter Ascending by way of The Great Wall.

Setting: Fantasy
Plot: Revolution
Tone: Adventure