Film Review - "A Star Is Born"

A Star Is Born
Directed by Bradley Cooper
Starring Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga, & Sam Elliot

This is the time of year when studios start releasing the films they believe can win Oscar Gold, and achieve awards season glory. These are the films you'll be hearing audiences and critics talk a lot about for the next few months. One of those films is sure to be A Star Is Born.
The third remake of the 1937 film starring Janet Gaynor,  A Star Is Born tells a timeless tale anew that is sure to leave a lasting emotional impression on a new generation of movie-theater audiences.

The film tells the story of Jackson Maine (Cooper, also in his directorial debut) a famous country singer battling tinnitus, as well as drug and alcohol addiction. While on tour, Jack drops into a drag-bar for a drink, where he discovers waitress and singer-songwriter Ally (Gaga). They soon strike up a relationship, and at one concert Jack brings her on stage to sing with him. From there her star starts to rise, while Jack's starts to fall…

The film does a wonderful job illustrating the themes of fame and the affects it has not just on a person, but their loved ones and their own creative aspirations. Like I said before, it's a timeless message, and you can understand why this film has been remade over and over. I've never seen the other versions of A Star Is Born, but this story is beautifully, masterfully told.

Part of that lies in the undeniable chemistry between our two leads. Bradley Cooper has always been one of my favorite actors, and it's nice to see him back on the screen, and not just hearing his voice come out of Rocket Raccoon. As far as a directorial debut, he knocks it out of the park. He has a great understanding of how to to bring a story to life through the camera. As far as acting, this is probably one of his greatest performances. It is both heartfelt and heartbreaking.

What more can be said about Lady Gaga? She is amazing. Her performance is incredible. Obviously we all knew she can sing, but as Ally she is clever and passionate, commanding every moment she's on screen. Together, her and Cooper make a wonderful pair. You feel the love their characters have for each other, the pain that they go through, and the joy that they share in.

Legendary Sam Elliot plays a Jack's older brother/manager Bobby. He is both loving and stern in this supporting role while maintaining his iconic suaveness. Andrew Dice Clay is literally unrecognizable as Ally's father, and adds some nice little moments of levity. Dave Chapelle makes a brief appearance as an old friend of Jack's. It's not a major part of the film, but it's a poignant performance.

This is a musical so we got to talk about some of the music. It's awesome. You won't be walking out of the theater humming a lot of these songs but they will definitely leave an impact. "Shallow" is definitely the best of the songs, followed closely by the final number, where Gaga brings down the house. Again, we all knew Lady Gaga can sing like nobody's business, but  Cooper is also a great singer in his own right.

Expect A Star Is Born to bring home plenty of trophies in the coming months, most likely for Gaga and Cooper. It is easily one of the best films of the year. A resonating tale of fame, love, and sacrifice, brought to life by two of (in my opinion) the most talented artists working in Hollywood right now. Even though it's the fourth version of A Star Is Born, the response it has has gotten makes it hard to believe anyone will attempt a fifth for the foreseeable future. One might say, this film's star isn't going to fade anytime soon…

Film Review - "Venom"

Venom
Directed by Ruben Fleischer
Starring Tom Hardy, Michelle Williams, and Riz Ahmed

Hey all you 21+ readers out there. You ever been at a party, and see someone completely plastered, making a total, trashy spectacle of themselves? You ever get the feeling to step in and put a stop to it, but you can't because what you're watching is somewhat entertaining? That's Venom.

The first film in an Anti-Marvel Cinematic Universe from Sony, Venom tells the origin of one of Spider-Man's most infamous foes (Just without Spider-Man, because of the whole shared custody thing. That's okay, you know Venom's origin is only like, totally linked to Spider-Man..).

Genius-but-sinister millionaire Carlton Drake (Ahmed) is searching for new habitable planets for humanity out in space. One of his rockets returns to Earth in a fiery wreck, with alien symbiotes for testing. Drake begins less than humane-tests to merge symbiotes with humans. Meanwhile, disgraced journalist Eddie Brock (Hardy) investigates Drake and his company. While breaking into Drake's laboratory with concerned scientist Dora Skirth (Jenny Slate), Eddie merges with one of the symbiotes.

The symbiote begins to manipulate Eddie, but soon they realize they will both need each other to get what they want, and to survive. Together, they will become Venom.

Venom is hot trash. There's no disputing that. The script is rushed and as flimsy as the paper it was probably printed on. The film blows through key plot points in the beginning to get Eddie to hit rock bottom and into a position where he will break into the lab to expose Carlton Drake and bond with Venom. But at the same time, the actual Venom doesn't show up until halfway through the film. So pacing's a bit of an issue.

There's no emotional investment to have in what any of the characters are doing, because there's no time left for real plot or character development. We don't fret about what Carlton Drake is doing because we don't really know him or his motivations. We don't worry over Eddie and Anne (Michelle Williams)'s relationship because we hardly see them together as a couple.

If you're a character in this film and your name is not Eddie Brock or Venom you're pretty much a plot device and nothing more. Michelle Williams gives a nice performance, but it's undeserving of a generic "concerned ex-girlfriend" role. Riz Ahmed, also a very talented actor, is just playing the bland, CEO villain. Poor Jenny Slate is all but wasted in her small and insignificant role.

The saving grace of Venom…is Venom. Tom Hardy gives an amazing performance both as Eddie Brock and Venom. The relationship dynamic between human and symbiote characters is truly a delight to watch, and the CGI on Venom is great (Not so much on his nemesis Riot, but that's beside the point). It probably wasn't the intention of the filmmakers, but Eddie & Venom's relationship provide a lot of laugh out loud moments. It turns the film into a very awkward buddy-comedy. Again, probably not what they wanted, but I'd be more than willing to see Hardy reprise this role in a much better film.

Venom houses a truly great performance from its lead actor. Unfortunately it's trapped within the center of a poorly made and poorly written film. Sort of like Margot Robbie's Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad, I'd like to see Hardy's Venom back in a film more worthy of his time and effort. The box office returns suggests a Venom 2 will happen, but with Sony at the wheel, the quality is in question.

Then there's the whole question of "Is this connected to the MCU?" The answer changes depends on who you ask, and wether it's a question of film quality or profit. Then you also have to wonder if the success of Venom will give Sony the hubris to say to Marvel, "You know what? We don't need you to make Spider-Man films anymore."…

…Hey let's review A Star Is Born next!

Film Review - "Christopher Robin"

Christopher Robin
Directed by Marc Forster
Starring Ewan McGregor, Hayley Atwell, and Jim Cummings

Winnie The Pooh was one Disney property I spent a lot of time with in my youth. I had all the original shorts and The Many Adventures of Winnie The Pooh tv series on VHS, and getting the chance to rent Welcome to Pooh Corner from the local Blockbuster, or just watch it on the Disney Channel while home sick from school was a treat. A set of rubber figurines from the Disney Store (the old school Disney Store, not what it is today) was one of my prized possessions. When I met Jim Cummings at a Comic Con a few years ago, I asked if he could say my name in Tigger's voice, which he replied, in Tigger's voice, "Chris Flaherty?? Don't be ridicurous!!". I wish I recorded that...

Anyway, so when Christopher Robin was announced amidst several of Disney's other live-action remakes, sequels, and "re-imaginings" of their animated classics, it was one I had more interest in over others. It was easily one of the more original films in development, and the concept sounded really intriguing, like a Winnie The Pooh version of Ted with a splash of Hook. Christopher Robin finally hit theaters this weekend, and it is a very simple, wonderful little film.

Acting as sort of a sequel to 1977's The Many Adventures of Winnie The Pooh, the film opens on a Goodbye Party for Christopher Robin (played in this sequence by child actor Orton O'Brie, very stiffly I might add.) who is preparing to go away to school. It plays out as a live-action recreation of that film's final scene, and it is rather nice (Despite poor child acting). We then flash-forward through Christopher Robin's life and glimpse the many ups and down he faces, from getting married and becoming a father, to losing his own father at a young age, and serving in World War II.

In the present day we now find Christopher (McGregor) a workaholic at a luggage company, and neglectful of his wife Evelyn (Atwell) and daughter Madelyn (Bronte Charmichael), whom he's sending off to boarding school by the end of the summer. When his superiors task him with cutting 20% of expenditures, Christopher must stay home and work the weekend, when he promised to travel with Evelyn and Madelyn to their countryside cottage.

Not soon after he's left alone does Winnie The Pooh (Cummings) appear at his home in London, asking Christopher Robin to help find his missing friends. Christopher reluctantly returns to the Hundred Acre Wood with Pooh to look for Piglet (Nick Mohammed), Eeyore (Brad Garrett), Tigger (Cummings) and the rest of the gang, rediscovering his youth, and who he used to be.

It is very similar to Hook, in which the main character returns to his childhood fantasies, thus getting a reminder of who they are and what's important to life. Christopher Robin doesn't go super in-depth to the themes of growing up, and staying true to yourself, but it's a Winnie The Pooh film, it's going to keep it simple. The story-line is fairly predictable and you could surely guess the resolution. Their's no real sense of urgency to the story, save for a "race against time" motif in third act, but even then it's tame. Again though, this is a Winnie The Pooh film, and we shouldn't expect loads of drama.

Christopher Robin's strengths lie in the heart and humor of its characters. Pooh and company are just as the same as they were years ago. They haven't been modernized or updated for today's audiences. Their brand of humor ensures plenty of smiles throughout the film. Pooh's fish-out-of-water antics and Eeyore's gloominess definitely steal the show. The film definitely has some bleaker moments, but they're heavily balanced out with the jovial, innocent nature of its cast and overall message.

Ewan McGregor does a fantastic job playing off his imaginary co-stars. He brings a lot of heart and charm to the role, and he's clearly having fun with it. Hayley Atwell is radiant and shines every moment she's on screen as Evelyn, but sadly is used sparingly. Bronte Charmichael is adorable as little Madleyn, as does more to hold her own with her human and non-human co-stars.

Disney/voice-acting legend Jim Cummings hasn't missed a beat as Pooh, or Tigger. He flawlessly brings these characters to life once again. Obviously his Pooh is the one that stands out the most here, with a lot of funny and emotional moments, but Tigger has plenty of fun here. Brad Garrett gives a great performance at Eeyore. It's perfect casting. Nick Mohammed also makes a perfect Piglet, capturing his sweetness and cowardice. Finally, Mark Gatiss plays Christopher Robin's boss, and he's fine, but he's just playing Mycroft from Sherlock again.

The look of the film is pretty spot-on. Instead of trying to recreate the look of the animated films, it harks back to the original illustrations from the A.A. Milne books, and the scenery does in fact look like a storybook come to life. The music is very sweet, and it's also nice to hear some new songs from legendary composer Richard Sherman through the end credits.

If you grew up with these characters like I did, you'll find it hard to take issue with Christopher Robin. It doesn't go for the emotional jugular like say Toy Story 3, but it doesn't really have to. The Winnie The Pooh stories are very simple, and this a very simple film. There will still be plenty of moments for you to reach for tissues. Trust me. Christopher Robin is a very fun, kind-hearted, film that will resonate with adults and children. It's sure to become another Disney classic.

That's the end of this review. TTFN. Ta-Ta For Now.

Film Review - "Incredibles 2"

Incredibles 2
Directed by Brad Bird
Starring Holly Hunter, Craig T. Nelson, and Samuel L. Jackson

At long last, the Pixar sequel the public has spent years asking for has hit theaters, and Incredibles 2 has proven to be worth the wait. It's an extremely worthy sequel that is practically equal in quality to its predecessor.

Incredibles 2 begins seconds after the original concluded, with the family taking on The Underminer (John Ratzenberger). Unfortunately this doesn't go as well as they had hoped, thus angering the public and the government, who are still not keen on superheroes. This does however attract the attention of sibling-business tycoons Winston and Evelyn Deavor (Bob Odenkirk and Catherine Kenner).

The Deavors approach Mr. Incredible/Bob Parr (Nelson), Elastigirl/Helen Parr (Hunter), and Frozone/Lucius Best (Jackson) with a plan to bring superheroes back into a positive spotlight, with Elastigirl at center stage. While Helen goes off to fight crime, Bob struggles to be a stay-at-home dad, just as Jack-Jack's (Eli Fucile) multitude of powers start to develop and wreak havoc.

It's a of role reversal of the first film, where this time Helen's off on the clandestine mission for the mysterious company and Bob's at home with the family, but what Brad Bird & his team do with the premise make it so much more than that. The film tackles a lot of interesting topics: gender & family roles, superhero culture, and through the villain, society's attachment to technology and media. The first two definitely get more script time. I do sort of wish the film tackled more of superhero culture, seeing as we are in the height of the Superhero Film Era, but Incredibles is a family film first and a superhero film second.

I must say, I did sort of find Bob's characterization at the beginning of the film a little off-putting, but as the film progresses it works a lot better. It's not about him feeling he deserves to be out there being super more than his wife, it's about him desperate to get back to the only thing he knows how to do, and his insecurity in this new role. It's a very sweet, mature storyline, which you should expect from Bird and Pixar. At the same time Elastigirl's story is equally great, and continues to be one of Pixar's best characters put to screen.

In fact it goes without saying this entire cast of characters is wonderful, and a lot of them get more to do in this sequel. Everyone's been saying Jack-Jack steals the show, and that is 100% true, and when him and Edna Mode share some scenes? Gold. The voice cast hasn't missed a beat either. Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L. Jackson are leading the way with their Grade-A voice work. Huck Finn takes over the role of Dash from Spencer Fox, and the change is barely noticeable, if at all. Bob Odenkirk & Catherine Keener are also fine additions as The Deavors.

The animation is incredible (oops), the action is stellar, and the folks behind the Fantastic Four films should look at how the animators handled the stretch powers of Elastigirl for her fights. Michael Giacchino's music is again wonderful, and it's awesome to hear that iconic theme in the theaters again. If I had one issue with the film it's the villain. This film's villain is sadly no Syndrome, and beyond predictable, and that's probably the one thing that keeps Incredibles 2 from matching The Incredibles.

This is probably one of my shorter reviews but honestly there's not much to say beyond that. Incredibles 2 is an incredible sequel, and easily Pixar's best non-Toy Story sequel. The characters, tone, and humor of the film are all point, and the story is the next logical chapter for this super family.

Now all the early Pixar films have sequels, so I think the studio can stop making sequels now. I mean, what are they going to make sequels to some of their newer stuff?
The Good Dinosaur Returns? Wall-E: Part 2? Up 2?...Oh...Oh God…

Film Review - "Solo: A Star Wars Story"

Solo: A Star Wars Story
Directed by Phil Lord & Chris Miller Ron Howard
Starring Alden Ehreneich, Emilia Clarke, and Donald Glover

The untold origins of Han Solo finally came to theaters last Memorial Day weekend, and after months of production troubles and rumors of it being a s**show, it turned out…okay. Not great. Not bad. Okay…kinda good maybe.

This story begins on the planet Corellia, where young Han (Ehreneich) and his love Qi'ra (Clarke) scheme to get out of town and start a life of adventure. Unfortunately things go south and Han is separated from Qi'ra.  Making it his life mission to return for her, he joins up with the Imperial Army, and shortly after that joins up with a band of criminals led by Tobias Beckett (Woody Harrelson). A job to steal a large amount of the rare mineral coaxium for the crime lord Dryden Vos (Paul Bettany) sets off a chain of events that will shape his future and transform him into the Han Solo we all know and love.

Oddly this film does not tell us much about the early life of Han Solo. It's more of a glimpse into one chapter of his past. At the same time though, it does check off a lot of boxes on a metaphorical origin-story checklist. We see how he got his name (Quite stupidly if I might mention.), we see how he met Chewbacca and Lando, and other things that some might consider spoilers. The pacing of the film is a bit off. There are parts of the story rushed through in the beginning that I wish they explored more but that's just me. It isn't until the second act where things really start to pick up, and strangely the climax of the film is rather tame, which isn't something one would expect from a Star Wars film. This is one of the Star Wars Story spinoffs so liberties can be taken.

This next part is where I get a little subjective. The whole film feels very average. It's a standard adventure film. Sort of predictable, and paint by-the-numbers. It's still quite enjoyable though, and I have no regrets seeing it. Yet, I still can't help but wonder what the final product would have looked like if Lord & Miller weren't fired...

The film is elevated by the characters and the actors that play them. Alden Ehreneich makes a great Han. Never once does it feel like he's doing a Harrison Ford impression. He brings a lot of charm, wit, and passion to the table and makes the character his own. Donald Glover is fantastic as Lando Calrissian. He does slip into a Billy Dee Williams impression once in awhile but he's still so suave and so cool. Emilia Clarke as Qi'ra, is lovely and equally charming as Ehreneich and she has great chemistry with him. Woody Harrelson turns in another solid performance as Tobias Beckett. His personality melded into this type of character fits almost perfectly into this side of the Star Wars universe. Paul Bettany grabs all the spotlight he can as the stable but not stable Dryden Voss. Also, Phoebe Waller-Bridge as "woke" droid L3-37 is an incredible scene-stealer. There I said it.

Solo is a fine Star Wars film, but it adds very little to the lore and universe. It's a harmless good time and I can easily recommend it to any Star Wars fan or adventure film fans, but you will not miss out on much if you don't see it. Considering all the production troubles, it could have turned out a lot worse. As it stands though Solo turned out to be an alright ride...for about twelve or so parsecs.

Film Review - "Deadpool 2"

Deadpool 2
Directed by David Leitch
Starring Ryan Reynolds, Josh Brolin, and Zazie Beetz

There's a time in every man's life, when he sees a major feature-film, and he finds himself in the minority as far as his thoughts and opinions on said film. For me, this is one of those times. Deadpool 2 is a lackluster sequel. It isn't a bad film per say, but it fails to live up to hype or the standards set by the first film.

Deadpool 2 begins with Wade Wilson (Reynolds) in a bit of a personal crisis after a recent mission goes south in the worst way. Under the persistent persuasion of Colossus (Stefan Kapicic), he finally joins up with the X-Men. It is through working with him and Negasonic Teenage Warhead (Brianna Hildebrand), Wade comes across the troubled mutant-youth Russell (Julian Dennison).

Russell soon becomes the target of time-traveling cybernetic soldier Cable (Brolin). Russell apparently becomes a real problem in the future, and Cable has come to put a stop to him. Wade, believing Russell isn't beyond saving, makes it his mission to protect the boy from Cable. He forms a team known as X-Force, featuring the uber-lucky mutant-mercenary Domino (Beetz), to help him save Russell and stop Cable.

So…time to be the bad guy. I haven't ready any Deadpool comics but I understand he is a very raunchy, rule-breaking, comedic character. The original Deadpool got that across, but the film also had a lot of heart behind it. This film tells you in the beginning this is a "family film" so you suspect there's going to be a lot more heart and emotion driving the story. Well…I just didn't see it that way.

The inciting incident that sets Deadpool on his personal journey in this film feels like a cheap, unearned shot. I understand what it sets up and what it's trying to do. The film is about Wade getting to a point where he's not just fighting for himself, and becoming a part of something bigger i.e. a family. But it falls flat because the connection between him and Russell felt rushed and hollow from this viewer's perspective. Wade just sort of non-chalantly decides saving Russell is what can save him.

Russell's character arc is really no better. We don't really get the full extent of what's pushing him towards this dark path, and we don't necessarily feel what's at risk if he goes down said path. Spoilers withheld, there's personal stakes for one of the characters, but this character gets an average amount of development so we don't really connect with them.

So I guess if I were to sum up all of my gripes with Deadpool 2, it just felt very hollow to me. The original was humor induced with heart, and the heart was just lacking. As for the humor, there were definitely plenty of laughs throughout the film, but I'm sorry to say I wasn't laughing out loud as much as I was with the original. There are however, plenty of fourth-wall breaks and pop-culture references to shake a stick at, which is welcome and par-the-course for Deadpool.

Ryan Reynolds continues to give career-defining work as the titular anti-hero. Josh Brolin is a welcome new-addition as Cable and plays off Reynold's Deadpool well. Zazie Beetz is very cool and very charming as Domino. I would love to see more of her and Brolin in a potential third film. Dennison stands out as Russell, being such a young talent he really holds his own against the likes of Reynolds and Brolin. The rest of the supporting crew are giving the same quality work they did in the first film, but all of them get a little bit more to do.

There was definitely some real effort and passion behind Deadpool 2, I can see that on a surface level, but it just didn't hit home for me. You could chop it up to a lot things. Deadpool was a comedy and it's hard to make a successful comedy sequel. The surprise and uniqueness of the original just didn't strike twice. Deadpool's stories are rooted within the X-Men universe, and I have always had an indifference to X-Men films. This film went heavier on the X-Men material, so maybe that's part of why I didn't go for it. Or perhaps it's just as I said, and the lack of emotional depth that elevated the original is where they lost me. Maybe I'm expecting too much out a film where the main character is ripped in half and grows back baby legs...

Whatever the case, I left the theater with a very "ok" feeling towards Deadpool 2.

Now excuse me while I go hide from the enraged fans…

Film Review - "Justice League"

Justice League
Directed by Zach Snyder
Starring Ben Affleck, Gal Gadot, and Henry Cavill

…Yeah I never did this when I saw it in theaters. Did I feel compelled to see it again before I wrote a review? Yes. Was I in a rush to see it again? No. Did the never-ending DC vs Marvel "war" get on my nerves and in some way make me shy away from this review? Little bit. Anyway here we are, and after finally watching Justice League a second time…it's fine. It's fine. I might even be more fine with it than in my initial viewing. Let's go.

Bruce Wayne (Affleck) is on the trail of a massive threat making its way to Earth. That threat being the extra-terrestrial conqueror Steppenwolf (Ciaran Hinds) and his army of Parademons. They seek the Mother Boxes, which will give Steppenwolf the power to conquer and re-shape the planet in his image.   Bruce, alongside Diana Prince (Gadot) must form a team of heroes to take down Steppenwolf and save the world from destruction. Those heroes include Arthur Curry/Aquaman (Jason Momoa), Barry Allen/The Flash (Ezra Miller), and Victor Stone/Cyborg (Ray Fisher). Oh and yes Superman (Cavill) is still dead and both Bruce and the rest of the world are still dealing with that.

Justice League feels a lot like a response to the negative criticism surronding Batman VS Superman. It's lighter, it's more fun, and characters are making jokes more. But as a result of that, the two films do not match-up, and I'm not referring to their contrasting tones. I mean I personally probably wouldn't have been able to tell the difference between Snyder and Whedon's direction if I hadn't known beforehand the latter came in to take over for the former during reshoots…some reshoots are pretty clear though...

Character decisions and motivations in this film do not equal up to their actions from the previous one. Yes Wonder Woman is a thoughtful and compassionate character, but to think she is personally invested in the resurrection of Superman is a bit of a stretch. To think that Bruce Wayne feels so much guilt over his death, and to say that he really knew who Clark Kent was, is a bit of a stretch. They spent like ten minutes actually talking to each other in the last one.

The build-up from the previous films does not equate to what Justice League is. All the plotting and planning of Batman VS Superman seems to be thrown out the window (Remember how Flash went back in time to warn Bruce about something? Or where did Lex Luthor's "notes" come from? The world is in disarray because Superman is gone? So I guess we're all just over all those protests and making him appear on Capitol Hill..). Where BVS probably had too much going on as far as plot, Justice League felt like it didn't have any plot other than "The heroes have to stop the villain from getting these magic boxes".

Out of context Justice League is fine on its own, but it's not on its own. It's supposed to be this climax of what's come before in this cinematic universe, and it just feels like the next chapter in this clunky saga. Now the big-team up film doesn't have to be "the end of the beginning" like The Avengers. It can be the next step, and an origin story. Guardians of The Galaxy showed us that you can do a team-up film that is also an origin story.

Here's what Guardians does that Justice League doesn't though. It allows time for little character moments and actual character development. Batman, Wonder Woman, we know who they are at this point. Aquaman, The Flash and Cyborg though? Who didn't have previous appearances in a DC film? They're all just sad loners. The one who probably shines best among the three is Aquaman, and if this film does one thing perfectly it makes me hyped for his standalone film (Hey sort of how BVS got us pumped for Wonder Woman!) We get a nice scene with Barry Allen and his father in jail, which probably feels more compelling to some than others because they watch The Flash tv series. Cyborg is just kind of there brooding and ashamed of what he is, and only gets to do anything when the plot needs him to. Would this film have worked better if they had their own films first? Probably, but it could have worked if they didn't either. But studio executives mandated the film to be two hours, so it's all rushed and it feels hollow.

Speaking of undeveloped characters, let's talk about Steppenwolf. He is not a good villain. His motivations are thin, and his character development is limited to a five-minute flashback narrated by Diana. The "Mother Boxes" of it all is lackluster. He's just a big, grey, generic, CGI bad guy for the heroes to fight. Speaking of fighting (segway to segway) the action is pretty bland. There's an underwater fight scene in Atlantis and honestly it made me nauseous. The big orange filter on everything in the final battle makes everything blend together horribly. None of the action really stands out, and it's all very choppy. Speaking of choppy-no I'll stop I'll talk about editing later.

So what's good about Justice League? Well the cast is pretty great and they have wonderful chemistry. Gal Gadot continues to remain the highlight of this franchise, being the perfect Wonder Woman. Ben Affleck's performance isn't as strong as it was in BVS but it's fine. He just seems…tired at times. Please just give us a good Affleck-led Batman film before it's too late. Holy crap finally, FINALLY, Henry Cavill actually gets to be Superman. I mean it's limited but he actually feels like the character for the first time with the material he's given. Jason Momoa is the coolest of cool as Aquaman. Ezra Miller is fun but sometimes annoying as The Flash. Ray Fisher's performance as Cyborg is nothing special but it's good.

The cast seems to be having some fun with this film, so in turn that can be transmitted to the audience. Justice League isn't unwatchable. It's nowhere near as terrible as Suicide Squad. Parts of it are enjoyable, and you might find yourself enjoying it a little bit. Atlantis and orange filters aside, some set pieces look pretty nice. When the film actually slows down and characters are allowed to be characters it's nice. But overall it's just a so-so film, and a film starring some of the most iconic comic book characters should be more than that.

Since the film's release, it's been revealed a lot had been cut out of the film. The edits are clear on the screen. So like all DCEU films, Justice League appears to be the victim of studio meddling. From my perspective, it seemed to come out a lot better than Suicide Squad, and arguably BVS. Justice League is harmless and hollow…but a little fun. It leaves no real impact, but you probably won't regret seeing it. Fingers crossed for Aquaman, Shazam, Wonder Woman 2…and whatever comes next…

So I've probably irked some Marvel fans for not trashing this film enough, and annoyed some DC films for not liking it more. But you know what?? You're all going to be pissed when you find out what I thought of Deadpool 2!!! *runs*

Film Review - "Avengers: Infinity War"

Avengers: Infinity War
Directed by Joe & Anthony Russo
Starring Robert Downey Jr., Josh Brolin, Chris Hemsworth and like 80% of the rest of the Marvel Cinematic Universe

Infinity War had a lot riding on it. The third film in the Avengers series and the eighteenth film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it had to bring ten years of storytelling to a big, bold conclusion. Of course this is only the first-half of that conclusion (Untitled Avengers 4, originally titled Infinity War: Part 2 comes out next year) but as of right now Infinity War god-damn delivered and more.

After seeing the film three(!) times in theaters, and over a month since its release, now's a good a time as any to put my words to text. However for the sake of respecting all types of filmgoers, this review will still be spoiler-lite.

The Mad Titan Thanos (Brolin), believing humanity is destined for destruction, sets out to gain control of the six Infinity Stones. Together their combined power can allow him wipe out half the universe. Divided and spread across the galaxy as a result of the events of Avengers: Age of Ultron and Captain America: Civil War, The Avengers must join forces with new allies like Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch), Black Panther (Chadwick Boseman) and The Guardians of The Galaxy to stop Thanos and save the universe.

Infinity War simultaneously meets and defies expectations. A Marvel fan's wildest fantasies and worst nightmares all come true, in an amazing emotional roller coaster. Roller coaster is probably is the best word to describe it because Infinity War, despite being two and-a-half hours long, is so briskly paced. There is seriously nothing that feels like filler material, despite the film juggling so much. It really feels like a comic-book, the way the story is laid out from beginning to end. Every character gets their moment some way or another.

It also looks amazing and like a comic-book come to life with its various settings and differenting color palette. The scale of the universe this franchise has built is clear in this singular film. This is also as dark as the MCU ever gets, and they're not sorry about it. Not to get too spoilerly, but ten minutes in I was like a scared little kid, "Stop the ride I wanna get off!" The drama and the emotion is real, but at the same time there's still moments of brevity with the usual Marvel humor.

What ties it all together though is Thanos. This is his film, and the Russos structure it as if he is a main character if not the main character. Thanos needed to be the biggest and baddest villain in the MCU, and he truly is. You get why he's doing this, you see the toll this mission takes on him, and you understand right from the get-go his power and what makes him such a threat. Josh Brolin disappears into the role. He brings the pain and the terror of Thanos to life, making him a truly memorable and iconic villain.

Of course there's a lot more talent other than Brolin in front of the camera but it would be ludicrous to go down the list and compliment them all. How about just a few highlights? Robert Downey Jr, in his ninth time in the role of Tony Stark, still shows no sign of wearing out, turning in the same quality work he's done since the original Iron Man. Zoe Saldana is given so much to work with as Gamora, and gives a heart-breakingly beautiful performance. Chris Hemsworth gives some of his best work as Thor here. Tom Holland again proves he is the best Spider-Man on film, providing plenty of heart and humor. Elizabeth Olsen & Paul Bettany make the perfect pair of Scarlet Witch and Vision. Benedict Cumberbatch continues to own the role of Doctor Strange, with plenty of wisdom and sass. Danai Gurira, who stole plenty of scenes in Black Panther, gets to uphold that reputation a few times here.
I could go on but these were some of heaviest hitters in an incredibly stacked, incredibly talented cast.

Two more things I'd like to make note of. The first being that I'm so glad Alan Silversti returned to score this film. It is some of the best work of his career in my opinion. The score is epic and heart-wrenching. It sets the perfect tone for a film like this. The second thing to note is this film is not for the uninitiated. If you're a casual Marvel fan this is probably not the best one for you to see. It might sound a bit biased, but you need to have seen a majority of the eighteen proceeding films to truly understand the weight of Infinity War.

Avengers: Infinity War is the definition of a cinematic achievement. Ten years of films and thoughtful planning brought us to this. It's gut-wrenching, ambitious, mind-blowing and more. Tightly scripted, visually stunning, and featuring so many wonderful performances, it leaves quite the mark on the audience and the genre. There will never be anything like it. It's truly special…and only 340 days until Avengers 4…

Film Review - “Black Panther”

Black Panther
Directed by Ryan Coogler
Starring Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, and Lupita N’Yongo

Captain America: Civil War was as much a culmination of everything that came before in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as it was setting the stage for what was to come in Phase Three. It broke the Avengers apart, to heighten the importance of bringing them together for the big Infinity War, it brought Spider-Man into the franchise, and it introduced us to a character who would play a big role in the future of the universe: Black Panther.

Chadwick Boseman’s debut as T’Challa was definitely one of the highlights of Captain America: Civil War, which made the anticipation for his own feature-film that much greater. Needless to say, Black Panther did not disappoint. It’s all kinds of superb.

The film picks up shortly after the events of Civil War. T’Challa (Boseman) returns home to ascend the throne after the passing of his father (John Kani). Just as he begins his reign as king, threats old and new against Wakanda emerge. The old being arms dealer Ulysses Klaue (Andy Serkis returning from Avengers: Age of Ultron), and the new being ex-black operative Erik “Killmonger” Stevens (Jordan). Killmonger’s arrival threatens to upset everything T’Challa knows and loves, and change the course of history and Wakanda forever.

Without going into spoilers, this is one of the best scripts Marvel has put to screen. The message is timely, thought-provoking, and perfectly illustrated.  There’s themes of foreign aid and operating without borders, that aren’t too on the nose but enough to leave an impact. What makes Black Panther so compelling is the central conflict between the ideals of T’Challa and Killmonger. Neither is completely right, nor are they completely wrong. They are two sides of the coin with some very valid points. This in turn, makes Killmonger one of, if not the strongest villains in a Marvel film to date.

Another great thing the film does is world-building. The viewer gets an insanely detailed picture of the nation of Wakanda. The technology, the culture, the architecture, it’s all there. The music is also incredible, one of the most unique scores for a Marvel superhero film. Coogler does a wonderful job of bringing us into this world, and the film looks beautiful to boot. Also, the film barely relies on anything that has come before, with hardly any influence from other Marvel films. Sure Klaue returns, as does Everett Ross (Martin Freeman) from Civil War, but hardly anything they do is built upon from their previous appaearances, save for literally one or two lines.

This cast is amazing. Seriously I love them. Boseman pours his heart and soul into T’Challa. Michael B. Jordan performance as Killmonger is incredible, some of the best scenes in the film are his. Lupita N’Yongo is charming as Nakia but isn’t given a whole lot do. Danai Gurira as Okoye, leader of the Dora Milaje is badass, and a lot of fun. Letitia Wright as Princess Shuri steals every scene she is in. It’s a hilarious, iconic performance. Then there’s Winston Duke as M’Baku. Oh my God is this guy the best, and another scene stealer-honestly it’s amazing how many different cast members are stealing scenes in this film.

Martin Freeman gets a lot more to do this round as Everett Ross, as does Andy Serkis as Ulysses Klaue, and their giving their usual best. Get Out star Daniel Kaluuya plays W’Kabi, T’Challa’s friend and Okoye’s lover. He does a fine job, but his arc and relationship with Okoye are a tad underdeveloped, and honestly the weak spot in the story. The rest of this stellar cast is rounded out by the talents of Angela Bassett, Forrest Whitaker, and Sterling K. Brown.

Compelling, ground-breaking, and epic, Black Panther is truly an amazing superhero film. Built upon an incredible script, brought to life by a truly amazing cast and filmmaker. As the Marvel Cinematic Universe gets closer to the end of the era and the dawn of a new one, you can be sure that T'Challa and company will be playing a major part in all of it. Long Live the King.

Top 10 Films of 2017

Alright chumps. Let's do this. Here's my Top 10 Films of 2017.

And like I always say. Not yours mine. Remember, entertainment is subjective!

You'll find that unlike last year's list, there are a lot less awards season contenders (This year's batch of Best Picture nominees didn't impress me as much), and a bit more superhero offerings (It was a pretty good year for the genre). Anyway, on with the countdown.

10.  I, Tonya
Directed by Craig Gillespie
Starring Margot Robbie, Sebastian Stan, and Allison Janney

A lot of people have given this film criticism for "glorifying" Tonya Harding. I disagree. I mean there's no doubt that Tonya Harding is guilty in part of the Nancy Kerrigan incident, but the film doesn't paint her out to be a straight villain. We see her as a young prodigy, ruthlessly abused through her upbringing by her mother (An amazing performance by Janney), then a young, very eccentric woman just trying to make her figure skating dreams come true. She's foul-mouthed, rough on-the-edges and not sorry about it. Is that through fault of her own? Or fault of her environment? Was she just a bad seed, or was she, in a way, manipulated into making one bad mistake that cost her a career? That's what I, Tonya leaves up to the audience, and that's why I enjoyed it.

Right from the get-go the film states what's to come is based on two very conflicting interviews: from Harding (Robbie), and her ex-husband Jeff Gillooly (Stan). The viewer knows right from the get-go not everything we're about to watch is true, so when it all ends the viewer might leave the theater conflicted. I like that challenge the film presents, and it's also a nice commentary on how truth is perceived through the media. There's plenty of shock-humor, slick 80s & 90s vibes, and great performances from the cast (This might be one of Robbie's best roles). You're gonna laugh, and you're probably going to cringe too. Whatever your feelings of Kerrigan or Harding, you should give I, Tonya a shot.

9. Three Billboards Over Ebbing, Missouri
Directed by Martin McDonagh
Starring Frances McDormand, Woody Harrelson, and Sam Rockwell

I truly enjoyed Three Billboards, but am very surprised it's one of the frontrunners for Best Picture at this year's Academy Awards. I describe this film as "Manchester By The Sea, if it took place in the South, and they played up the jokes." It's a compelling, heart wrenching story, and it does have a lot of humor (dark humor, but humor regardless). I enjoy emotionally challenging films, but Three Billboards proved to be quite exhausting. Bringing this story to life is a trio of top-notch performances from McDormand, Harrelson, and Rockwell. They all play wonderfully-written, three-dimensional, incredibly human beings. It's definitely not going to be everyone's cup of tea, but the reasons are clear why Three Billboards has become known as one of the best films of the year.

8. Wind River
Directed by Taylor Sheridan
Starring Jeremy Renner and Elizabeth Olsen

Sheridan also wrote and directed Hell or High Water, one of my favorites from last year, so it's no surprise his next film would show up in a "Top 10" list of mine. Wind River is far darker than Hell or High Water, but it shares that modern-day Western feel, and is a truly suspenseful, layered murder mystery. Renner and Olsen are great, and carry over their Marvel Cinematic chemistry to this film. The camera takes great advantage of the Wind River Indian Reservation's landscape. Again, a bit dark, but Wind River appears to have become one of the hidden gems not everyone might have seen. If you're a fan of the writer-director and cast, I suggest you give it a look.

7. Beauty & The Beast (2017)
Directed by Bill Condon
Starring Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, and Luke Evans

Alright after three dark films, let's move onto a light-hearted Disney musical!!! It does feel a little cheap putting this remake on the list, and I know it's not the best film it could be, but I love it for what it is at its core: A loving homage to not just my favorite animated film, but my favorite film of all time. The cast is (mostly) great, the visuals are (for the most part) spectacular, and the songs are all wonderful, with some renditions even surpassing the ones from the original. There's nothing really more to say. Despite its faults, the Beauty & The Beast remake makes it into the Top 10.

6. The Distaster Artist
Directed by James Franco
Starring James Franco, Dave Franco, & Alison Brie

A movie about making movies?! Sign me up!!
If you don't know the story behind The Room…no, wait. If you don't know The Room, go watch that first, then learn the story behind it by reading the book "The Disaster Artist"by Greg Sestero, and then and then watch this film. You will really appreciate The Disaster Artist more but don't let that diminish the value of this film. Not only does it paint a vivid and unbelievable picture on the making of the best worst film of all time, it's also a wonderful story of friendship and brotherhood. That message is conveyed only better when the actual Franco Brothers are the co-leads.

James Franco does what many considered to be impossible, making one of the most mysterious, cartoonish people on Earth (Tommy Wiseau), and make him appear as human as the rest of us. Dave Franco gives a strong performance against his older, more seasoned brother. It's amazing to learn the emotional, tumultous tale behind this hilariously bad film. The Disaster Artist is a perfect companion piece to The Room, but also wonderful on its own.

5. Logan
Directed by James Mangold
Starring Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, and Dafne Keen

I've made no secret of my apathy towards X-Men films, but occasionally they have wowed me. Logan did much more than "wow". Logan excels because it doesn't feel anything like an X-Men film or a superhero film. It's a dark, dramatic western that just happens to star comic book characters. Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart give it their all in the final performances as Wolverine and Professor Xavier, and young Dafne Keen is a true powerhouse in her own right. One thing I never mentioned in my original review is some visuals of the film are really great. The filmmakers do a great job in crafting this not-so-distant, dystopian, western-like future. Logan brings the arc of Wolverine to a profound conclusion. It's heartbreaking, bold and beautiful. One of the best superhero films of all time…

As is, in my opinion…

4. Wonder Woman
Directed by Patty Jenkins
Starring Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, and Connie Neilsen

I'm well aware of the backlash against this film that has bubbled over the past year, but this is my Top 10 list, and Top 10 Lists, like all forms of entertainment, are subjective. Wonder Woman is flawed, yes, and stumbles in the third act. But aside from that the rest of the film is pretty spectacular. Gal Gadot gives a career-defining, incredibly heartfelt performance, making Wonder Woman easily one of the best superheroes ever put to screen. It's a pretty straightforward story, with a very heartfelt message, centered around a genuinely lovable protagonist. Patty Jenkins crafted a really (pardon me) wonderful film, that came at just the right time in this industry and this world. Wonder Woman may not be perfect, but it still stands as one of the best films of last year, and one of my favorites.

3. Get Out
Directed by Jordan Peele
Starring Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams, and Bradley Whitford

What a surprise this film was. What a unique and chilling film, and an incredible directorial debut for Jordan Peele. It's amazing this film, a horror film, got this high on a Top 10 list for me. But it's unlike any horror film that's come before, due to it's deep cultural commentary and intriguing premise. Daniel Kaluuya has quickly become one of my favorite actors this past year, between this and Black Panther, and Lil' Rel Howrey as Rod The TSA Agent is one of the most memorable performances of 2017. I'm so glad that awards season has not forgotten about Get Out, as it's one of the nine Academy Award For Best Picture nominees. If it were up to me, I would give Get Out the Oscar, as it's definitely the most enjoyable out of the nine.

2. Coco
Directed by Lee Unkirch
Starring Anthony Gonzalez, Gael Garcia Benral, and Benjamin Bratt

How nice to have Pixar back in The Top 10, and rightfully so because Coco is their best since Inside Out. A captivating story of family, dreams, and sacrifice, told through amazing Pixar animation and unforgettable music. Young Anthony Gonzalez leads the film with a charming and emotional performance as Miguel, and Gael Garcia Benral quickly becomes an instant favorite Pixar character as Hector. Coco is one of Pixar's greatest, and hands down the best animated film of the year. And it goes without saying but keep the tissues and handkerchiefs handy…

Before we get to #1, some honorable mentions…

The Lego Batman Movie: An incredibly fun and incredibly clever animated adventure, that definitely deserved to be nominated for Best Animated Feature over crap like The Boss Baby. And is it possibly one of the Best Batman Films? Maybe??

Guardians of The Galaxy Vol.2: An amazing sequel that doubles the laughs, doubles the emotions, and properly develops the character arcs of everyone's favorite bunch of a-holes, all while set to a killer soundtrack.

Captain Underpants: I mean, if you grew up reading the books like I did, you should love this movie.

Baby Driver: Just an all-out fun ride with plenty of tunes and plenty of action, featuring a stellar cast (…including Kevin Spacey…)

Star Wars: The Last Jedi: An epic new chapter in the Star Wars saga that takes risks and forges new ground. It's not the best one in the franchise by any means but it's still pretty great.

The Shape of Water: A visual spectacle and a bizarre fairy tale of sorts, set during the Cold War. The Shape of Water is both a sweet and a dark film that leaves a lasting impression.

Molly's Game: Probably would have liked this film lot more if I understood the game of poker. It's another great Aaron Sorkin story, and a wicked compelling character study, led by the amazing Jessica Chastain.

And some films from last year I haven't seen yet but very much want to…

The Big Sick
Kong: Skull Island
Free Fire
Atomic Blonde
Detroit
Ingrid Goes West
Battle of The Sexes
Professor Marston & The Wonder Women
Goodbye, Christopher Robin
The Man Who Invented Christmas

And now finally…

1. Thor: Ragnarok
Directed by Taika Waitit
Starring Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddelston, Mark Ruffalo, and Cate Blanchett

Thor: Ragnarok, as different as it is from the first two Thor films, brings the trilogy to its proper conclusion. Thor's character arc reaches the logical climax that was set up when we first met him in 2011. While still managing to feel like a Thor film, it also gives us something new that is not-almost Guardians of The Galaxy-esque. The ensemble cast is great, the action is thrilling, and the music is some of the best in any Marvel film. It's also one of the most visually stunning Marvel films. This is all credited to the vision of director Taika Waititi, who knocked it out of the park. I did have some issues with it, as I mentioned in my initial review, but they can be overlooked when this is such an epic, enjoyable film.

I guess what makes Thor: Ragnarok #1 for me is it sticks the most out in my mind when thinking back on all the films of 2017. Just every bit of it, the visuals, the humor, the score all left such an impression on me. It really is one of the best chapters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, up there with Captain America: Civil War and The Avengers. Its bizarre mesh of Asgardian lore and "Planet Hulk" tropes make it one of the most unique Marvel films to date, and my Top Film of 2017.