Film Review - "Doctor Strange in The Multiverse of Madness"

Doctor Strange in The Multiverse of Madness

Directed by Sam Raimi

Starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Xochitl Gomez, and Elizabeth Olsen

It's been six years since Benedict Cumberbatch's Doctor Strange made his MCU debut in the film of the same name. He's become a constant ever since, from being a key player in the last two Avengers films, to having supporting roles in Thor: Ragnarok and Spider-Man: No Way Home. Needless to say, the character has been through a lot, and there's no way in The Multiverse of Madness he's going to catch a break anytime soon.

As Stephen Strange (Cumberbatch) attends the wedding of his former flame Christine Palmer (Rachel McAdams), a young girl named America Chavez (Gomez) falls into New York City, being chased by a demon part-cyclops and part-octopus. After being rescued by Strange, and his mentor/friend/Sorcerer Supreme Wong (Benedict Wong), Chavez explains she is being hunted for her power to travel the multiverse. Strange's decision to help Chavez leads him to seek help from Wanda Maximoff aka The Scarlet Witch (Olsen). This brings Strange down a path to learn much more about the multiverse and himself.

The film is a wild ride, and one of the most unique chapters of the MCU. That is no small credit to Director Sam Raimi, whose history with horror films is clearly on display here. This is almost the first MCU horror film, complete with jump scares and ghoulish sights. The film also has a bit of gore, and quite an impressive body count...If you're not big on horror this might not be your cup of tea, and parents might want to have younger MCU fans hold off or skip this one. 

While the film has the thrills and chills turned up to eleven, it's also very restrained in its multiverse madness. Don't expect hundreds of cameos peppered throughout the film, although there are plenty of surprises. The story is much more concerned with servicing its two primary characters, Stephen Strange and Wanda Maximoff, which is a good thing because that's what the film needs to do.

Everything each character has been through has led to this, especially Wanda, who practically steals the whole film. She outshines our lead hero for a fair amount of time, but that isn't to say Doctor Strange gets the short end of the stick. He gets some much-needed character work in this film beyond being the guy who knows everything (or at least thinks he does), and it builds off not just what he went through in the first Doctor Strange film, but in Infinity War and Endgame as well. He becomes a much more sympathetic and vulnerable character.

Despite all the good work the film does for The Scarlet Witch and would-be Sorcerer Supreme, the screenplay does lack a little focus, and pacing does become an issue. The film comes out guns blazing, then hits some speed bumps as it transitions from act-to-act. Though like I said, the film is a wild ride, and incredibly entertaining. There are some really distinct visuals in and out of the multiverse, and the creative styling of the magic users' powers are a sight to see. A highlight is a battle that uses notes off of sheet music. Speaking of music, props to Danny Elfman as this is probably one of his more unique scores for a film, meaning I didn't even recognize his typical style throughout the film (maybe he saves that for Tim Burton...)

Benedict Cumberbatch remains a perfect Doctor Strange, again getting to go more in-depth and personal with the character. Elizabeth Olsen, as always, is amazing as Wanda. Her performance is both a treat and terrifying, and just in case you're worried your lack of a Disney Plus subscription will leave you in the dark, this film gives you enough of a clue to what happened in WandaVision (but you should still watch it because it's great). Xochitl Gomez makes her MCU debut as America Chavez and holds her own well against the likes of Cumberbatch and Olsen, but isn't given that much to do. Hopefully we'll see her again soon. Rachel McAdams is given significantly more to do this time as Christine Palmer. She gets to play to her strengths of portraying a character that's equally sweet and snarky, and her chemistry with Cumberbatch is put to much better use. Benedict Wong as...Wong, once again proves he's one of the best supporting players in the MCU, perfectly weaving between the role of stoic moral compass and dry-witted comic relief. 

Doctor Strange in The Multiverse of Madness has its shortcomings, but is still one of the most unique MCU films to date. It's highly entertaining, though viewers with a low threshold for horror films should err on the side of caution. It's full of unique visuals, wonderful performances, and plenty of crowd-pleasing moments. I definitely can't wait to see it again, and see where the MCU takes us next in this vast multiverse.

Top 12 Films of The Marvel Cinematic Universe

Well, now seemed a good a time as any to tackle this daunting task. This month marks the one-year anniversary of Avengers: Endgame, which closed out the first twenty-three film saga of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Black Widow, which is set to lead us into the next saga of the MCU, has had its release date postponed, along with several other films. So now seems like a good time to revisit some of my favorite entries of the MCU.

Braver men then me have solidified their preferential rankings of the films of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and I am well aware of the position I'm about to put myself in. However, like every Top Films lists, I'll reiterate that all entertainment is subjective, and my Top 12 might not necessarily be the same as someone else's. Also, unlike my Top Films of the Year lists, I'm going with twelve slots instead of ten. I'm not just going through a year of films. I'm going through a tight, twenty-three film franchise. As Dave Chappelle once said, "Modern problems, require modern solutions."

Alright let's take an extra shot of Super-Solider Serum, power up the Arc Reactor, and (those that are worthy) summon Miljonir. These are my Top 12 MCU Films.

12. Thor
Released May 6, 2011
Directed by Kenneth Branagh
Starring Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddelston (and Anthony Hopkins as Odin)

I've really come to appreciate the first Thor film more and more over time. There's just so many memorable lines of dialogue that I can recite so well. It really started to shape the cinematic universe on a larger scale, establishing the connections between Earth and Asgard, and our introduction to Thor (Hemsworth) is possibly one of the best origin stories in the MCU. The cast is full of MCU powerhouses, not just Hemsworth, but Sir Anthony Hopkins as the almighty Odin, and Tom Hiddelston everybody's favorite villain Loki. Really what else can I say about Loki?

The fight scenes are superb, but not because there's a lot of sword fighting and explosions, but because they're on a smaller scale, personal, and more integral to the character arcs. It's a good drama. It's a good fantasy film. Thor stands out among the MCU's earliest entries.
(Original Review)
(Ranked #4 in My Top Films of 2011)


11. Black Panther
Released February 16, 2018
Directed by Ryan Coogler
Starring Chadwick Boseman, Luptia N'yongo, and Michael B. Jordan

Black Panther, save for a cliche' final battle, is a powerhouse film. Coogler is a master at world-building. He brings the country of Wakanda to life beautifully with every detail, from the set design and wardrobe, to the film's unforgettable score and soundtrack. It's a visually stunning production. The cast is amazing. Boseman is too cool as our lead. Danai Gurira as Okoye and Winston Duke as M'Baku are the definition of scene stealers. Michael B. Jordan gives us the best villain in an MCU since Loki, no question about that.

The script is so well-written, and is full of themes and messages that resonate with the world today. None of which are in your face, but are handedly in a strong but subtle way, that they can leave a significant impact on the viewer. Another great thing the film does is stand firm on its own ground, while connecting to the larger narrative of the MCU in a simple way. Black Panther is a compelling, ground-breaking film that is almost a masterclass in filmmaking on its own.
(Original Review)
(Ranked #7 in My Top Films of 2018)


10. Captain America: The Winter Solider
Released April 4, 2014
Directed by Joe & Anthony Russo
Starring Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, and Robert Redford

The second film in the Captain America trilogy took the Star Spangled Man with A Plan to brilliant places. After the end of The First Avenger brought him to the modern world, the Winter Solider puts Cap in a place where everything he knows is challenged. The lines between right and wrong are blurred, and when he is being forced to "get with the times", he stands his ground and tries to stay true to his beliefs. It's a thought-compelling film raising questions on morality, government oversight, and more.

This "political thriller" was the first real game changer in the MCU, with its intense and gripping plot regarding SHIELD and its role in the universe. Anthony Mackie makes a great debut as Sam Wilson/The Falcon. Samuel L. Jackson and Cobie Smulders get to play more as Nick Fury and Maria Hill. But the heart of the film is the relationship between Cap & Black Widow (Evans & Johansson). The two characters are almost complete opposites but have enough similarities to form a connection, and they play off each other incredibly well. That's in no small credit to the talents of Evans & Johansson, who's life-long friendship helps to build their on-screen chemistry and make a dynamic Marvel duo.

Edge-of-your-seat thrills with an emotional core, brought to life with wonderful performances, Captain America: The Winter Solider is one of the MCU's best sequels.
(Original Review)
(Ranked #2 in My Top Films of 2014)


9. Iron Man
Released May 2, 2008
Directed by Jon Favreau
Starring Robert Downey Jr, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jeff Bridges

The one that started it all. The character arc of Tony Stark (Downey) is one of the strongest, if not the strongest across the franchise, but if you just look at Iron Man, it set the standard for superhero origins. The story of Iron Man is one of incredible self-redemption, and one we hadn't seen in a superhero film at the time. Tony is a man who sees an evil in the world he has fed, and makes it his life mission to right those wrongs, and make the world a better place. Across nine films he goes from completely selfish to selfless, but right out the gate we get a strong sense of who this guy is. Favreau's amazing direction, and Downey's iconic performance created the stuff of legends.

I also think Jeff Bridges is often overlooked when people rank MCU villains. While the final battle is slightly underwhelming, Obadiah Stane is incredibly well written as this dark reflection of Tony. But the rest of the action is superb, there's lot of humor and heartfelt character moments. I don't think the MCU would be what it is today if they didn't come swinging out of the gate so strongly with Iron Man.



8. Captain America: Civil War
Released May 6, 2016
Directed by Anthony & Joe Russo
Starring Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr, and Sebastian Stan

There's probably nothing harder to watch than some of the most-beloved characters of all time kick the crap out of each other, but that's what makes Captain America: Civil War such an enticing and impactful film. The airport sequence? Groundbreaking. The final confrontation between Cap, Tony, and Bucky? Heart-wrenching. The emotional stakes have never been higher.

The Russo's do an incredible job of keeping Cap (Evans) the centerpiece of the story, while also servicing every player on the Avenger chessboard (many have nicknamed this film Avengers 2.5). The performances in this film are top-notch, showing just how well this ensemble has learned to play off one another. Every scene and every bit of dialogue builds off what came before it, as this acts as a culmination of Phase One & Two, and sets the stage for Phase Three. Captain America: Civil War, with its high emotional stakes and unmatched action, is easily one of the best films in the MCU.
(Original Review)
(Ranked #2 in My Top Films of 2016)

Things are starting to get tricky now...

7. Avengers: Endgame
Released April 26, 2019
Directed by Anthony & Joe Russo
Starring Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, and Scarlett Johansson, etc.

As close to perfect as a finale gets I think. It wraps up The Infinity Saga while also leaving a few breadcrumbs to what could come next. This film was an unforgettable experience in theaters, and the laughs, cheers, and tears still hit home. The final battle is nothing short of epic. The time-travel sequence is (for the most part, RIP Natasha) a ton of fun. Alan Silversti's score is beautiful. The performances from the original six Avengers are some of their very best, but the supporting players turn in some great work too. Paul Rudd as Scott Lang/Ant-Man provides a lot of bright moments. Karen Gillan as cold but not totally-heartless-now Nebula really plays well against The Avengers.

As most finales do, Endgame is full of nostalgia, using the theme of time-travel to revisit some beloved locations and characters from past films, but never in a way that feels gimmicky. The true majesty and gravitas of the MCU is on display here for three hours, showcasing everything viewers have come to love for the past decade. Avengers: Endgame capped off The Infinity Saga incredibly well, and deservingly became the most successful film of all time.
(Original Review)
(Ranked #1 in My Top Films of 2019)


6. The Avengers
Released May 4, 2012
Directed by Joss Whedon
Starring Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, and Chris Hemsworth

The first time The Avengers assembled on screen was an unforgettable moment in cinematic history. After seeing all their stellar work in their solo films, it was amazing to see the natural chemistry between these actors. Brining Tom Hiddelston back as Loki for the film's antagonist was a good move, and solidified him as a franchise MVP.

The film does start a little slow getting the team together, but that start is full of standard, enjoyable character moments. Whedon's script services them all well, and the dialogue is beyond witty and truly memorable. The action, particularly in the final battle in New York, is epic. Little film nerd moment here...the cinematography in The Avengers is pretty great, with some really nice camerawork. Alan Silversti, again, is a true maestro with the music. The Avengers was the true beginning of the end, and promised big, beautiful things in the future of the MCU.
(Ranked #3 in My Top Films of 2012)


5. Thor: Ragnarok
Released November 3, 2017
Directed by Taika Waititi
Starring Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, and Cate Blanchett

Thor: Ragnarok marked a real turning point for The God of Thunder (and my second favorite Avenger). I think it's pretty safe to say that Ragnarok is universally accepted as the funniest film of the MCU, and I stand by that statement. Visually the film is one of the MCU's most unique, as we go on this "cosmic road trip", from Asgard to New York to Sakarr. It's always nice to get a sense of how big the universe of these films is.

As much as Waitit reinvented the Thor films, it brings the trilogy to a proper conclusion for the character and brings a wonderful script to life. Hemsworth gives some of his best work as Thor, and gets to show off his comedic chops. Mark Ruffalo gets a bit more to do as Bruce Banner/The Hulk, and Cate Blanchett is deliciously evil as Hela. Thor: Ragnarok is one of the MCU's funnest and most unique entries.
(Original Review)
(Ranked #1 in My Top Films of 2017)


4. Doctor Strange
Released November 4, 2016
Directed by Scott Derrickson
Starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Tilda Swinton, and Chiwetel Ejiofor

Man I was pretty harsh in my original review of Doctor Strange. I mean some of it I still agree with but obviously I've changed my tune if it's now in my Top 5. The introduction to the magical side of the MCU is a true spectacle. I love the visuals in the film, and Michael Giacchino's grand and fantastical score only immerses you in them deeper. Stephen Strange is a true fan-favorite, brought to life on screen perfectly by Benedict Cumberbatch. His origin story follows some similar beats to Thor and Iron Man but has its own unique flavors.

The supporting cast is stacked, from the fierce Shakespearean nature of Ejiofor's Mordo, to Benedict Wong's hilarious and stoic Wong, and Swinton as the material but powerful Ancient One (I love her final scene with Cumberbatch. It's one of my favorite scenes in the MCU. I just love the overall tone and feel of the film. It was nothing like the MCU films that came before it. Doctor Strange was a true feast for the eyes, and a "magical" introduction to a new corner of the MCU.
(Original Review)


3. Avengers: Infinity War
Released April 27, 2018
Directed by Anthony & Joe Russo
Starring Robert Downey Jr, Josh Brolin, Chris Hemsworth (and the rest!)

Infinity War was a cinematic experience unlike any other. The impact of that ending can still be felt to this day. It's like a true comic-book event come to life, sprung right from the panels. The Russo's perform the balancing act they did in Civil War, and like, quadruple it. Some cast members don't shine as equally as others, but their time is better used in Endgame. Downey, as always, is *the* leading man as Tony Stark. Josh Brolin feels truly menacing as Thanos, the saga's Big Bad, while also playing him with real pathos. Chris Hemsworth, right after Ragnarok, turns in even more spectacular work as Thor. It's also nice to see Doctor Strange and the Guardians join in on the big team-up this time.

While Infinity War is a ride, it is a lot to digest. However in the context of its sequel, it's setting the stage for The Avengers to come back from their greatest failure. And really it isn't their film, it's Thanos's. The Russo's structure it so he's a main character, which is the right call since the franchise had been building to him for ten years. But back to Infinity War being a ride. This as dark and intense as the franchise gets, and the action is some of the most thrilling in a Marvel film. "Calm" is not the word to use to describe Infinity War. Also, one more time...The music of Alan Silversti.

Infinity War shook audiences to its core. It's as devastating as it is entertaining.
(Original Review)
(Ranked #2 in My Top Films of 2018)


2. Guardians of The Galaxy: Vol. 2
Released May 5, 2017
Directed by James Gunn
Starring Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, and Kurt Russell 

I really enjoy both Guardians films, but given a choice I'd take Vol.2 over "Vol.1". The comedy is turned up to eleven, but Gunn really doubles-down on the drama, and shows how as a writer he can seamlessly interweave between them. I love the story of family, and how the family we choose isn't always the family we're born into. Gunn brings these characters to the logical next step in their journeys. The Guardians of The Galaxy might look odd on the surface, but their story is universally touching.

Chris Pratt again proves to be one of the best actors in the business right now. Kurt Russell as Ego is absolutely amazing. Bradley Cooper as Rocket Raccoon is the unsung MVP of the ensemble. Karen Gillan and Michael Rooker get more to do as Nebula and Yondu, and what they do with the material *chef's kiss*.  The design of the film is incredible, like Disney meets Flash Gordon. It's beautiful to look at. The soundtrack is once again stellar, but in this film I find the songs are more connected to what's on screen (particularly Fleetwood Mac's "The Chain).

I expected to laugh and have a great time. I didn't expect an attack on the feels in Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 2, but that's what we got. The film exceeded my expectations, and over time became one of my favorite MCU films.
(Original Review)


...Yeah...yeah we're here again...As them Thanos say, "I am, inevitable..."

1. Captain America: The First Avenger
Released July 22, 2011
Directed by Joe Johnson
Starring Chris Evans, Hayley Atwell, and Sebastian Stan

I'm going to save some time and just copy-paste what I wrote when I made this film #1 in My Top 10 Films of 2011...

"Surprised? I knew you wouldn't be. This quickly became one of my favorite films of all time, as did Captain America become my favorite superhero of all time. Steve Rogers isn't motivated by say, revenge for a lost loved one, or some foretold prophecy. He's doing it because he knows what's right. He sees evil in the world, and as a person, feels compelled to do something about it. How can you not fall in love with a character like that, especially when he's played perfectly by my man Chris Evans? Honestly this is one of the best batch of supporting players in the MCU. Hayley Atwell is lovely and dynamic as Agent Peggy Carter. Sebastian Stan is too cool for school as Bucky. Hugo Weaving is deliciously evil as Red Skull, and by God can we please get more of Tommy Lee Jones as Colonel Phillips in the MCU?? The film is not so much a superhero film, but a WWII action-adventure in the vein of Indiana Jones, which I love. I could keep going but you already knew Captain America: The First Avenger is my favorite film..."

Captain America, to me, embodies the spirit of the MCU, and shows why these films have become so beloved. The Marvel heroes portrayed on screen, all start out as regular people, be it a scrawny kid from Brooklyn, a gifted neurosurgeon, or a genius-billionare-playboy-philanthropist. They are put in extraordinary situations, and rise to the occasion to become something more. They take the chance to make the world a better place, by volunteering for a risky super-soldier program, joining a talking raccoon and tree to fight an intergalactic terrorist, or leading their people out of the shadows and onto the world's stage (That one's Black Panther). By showing their humble beginnings, Marvel shows that in some way, anyone can be a superhero. They make these characters accessible to the audience. As Stan Lee once said, "That person who helps others simply because it should or must be done, and because it is the right thing to do, is indeed, without a doubt, a real superhero..."

So (as it stands right now) those are my Top 12 Films of the MCU. Now, I finally rest, and watch the sun rise (from a secure location) on a grateful universe...

Well that's probably enough controversial opinions for now...for my next post, my review of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker!

Top 10 Films of 2016

Another year of film comes to a close this weekend with the 89th Annual Academy Awards, and what a year it's been. It was a make-or-break period for superhero films (Marvel did the making, DC did the breaking. Shots fired.). After a few years of backlash, filmmakers seemed to have responded to the "Oscars So White" rally cry, and we had a much more diverse library of films (Four of the nine Best Picture Nominees predominantly star actors and actresses of color.). Disney churned out not one but two incredible animated films, while Pixar gave us another sequel in Finding Dory, that wasn't spectacular but still worlds better than Cars 2. But most importantly, Ryan Gosling gave us even more reasons to be in awe of him…anyway…

Now with the Oscars upon us, and having just finished watching all nine of the Best Picture nominees at AMC's annual marathon, here's my Top 10 Films of 2016. And as I always say: Not your Top 10. Mine. Here we go.

10. Zootopia
Directed by Byron Howard and Rich Moore
Starring Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman and Idris Elba

Like I said, Disney added two great animated films to their catalog this year, and while I loved Moana, Zootopia definitely was the better crafted and more impactful film. A cute and very comical film with a powerful message at its core, and a message very important in this day and age. Its two leads are a perfect match, the script is more than solid, and the animation is Disney at its best. Zootopia stands as one of Disney's and one of the year's best.
(Original Review)

9. Deadpool
Directed by Tim Miller
Starring Ryan Reynolds, Morena Baccarain and TJ Miller

I never thought I'd see the day a Ryan Reynolds film would appear on a Top 10 list for me, but 2016 started off with the gift of Deadpool. While it's very much a basic superhero origin story, it's all elevated by his performance as the Merc with a Mouth. The film was a longtime passion project of his, and it shows in the final product. While it's a raunchy R-Rated superhero film, it has plenty of heart to keep it balanced. Full of great one-liners and gags, Deadpool is one of the finest films out of last year.
(Original Review)

8. Hacksaw Ridge
Directed by Mel Gibson
Starring Andrew Garfield, Vince Vaughn, and Hugo Weaving

Mel Gibson is who he is, but that doesn't mean he can't make a great film, and Hacksaw Ridge is a great film. While the first third is strong with Christian overtones and the blood and violence gets to be a little much (Classic Mel) it's a captivating story about beliefs and heroism. Andrew Garfield gives a not-Spider-Man career defining performance, backed up by the (surprising) talent of Vince Vaughn and Sam Worthington. It's heartfelt, it's thrilling, Hacksaw Ridge tells the story of an almost real-life Captain America, so based on that sentiment you can see why it's in my Top 10.

7. Moonlight
Directed by Barry Jenkins
Starring Alex Hibbert, Ashton Sanders, and Mahershala Ali

Moonlight is such a bold, unique film. There's nothing like it, which is sad because more stories of self-acceptance and identity like this one are needed in this time in history. The scenery and lighting is so eye-catching, and the three actors they got to play the main character through the three stages of his life mesh together so well  (for the most part). I guess what keeps the film lower on my list opposed to others' lists, is it hit a wall for me in the third act. The pacing slowed to a crawl and we seemed to rush to an abrupt but still logical conclusion. That aside, its a remarkable, passionate film and still one of the year's best.

6. Arrival
Directed by Denis Villeneuve
Starring Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, and Forrest Whittaker

Arrival is such a different take on the usual alien-invasion film. Not to get into spoilers, but it reaches a Christopher Nolan-level of storytelling that resonates on an emotional and mind-rattling level. You'll approach the film with one mindset, and have it completely turned upside down by the time the credits role. Amy Adams and Jeremy Renner both give some solid performances, but I'm not sure what Forrest Whittaker's accent is all about...might be Boston. It's eerie, it's captivating, it's a mind trip. Arrival will definitely stick with you as you leave the theater.

5. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
Directed by Gareth Edwards
Starring Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, and Ben Mendelson

Well we had a thought-provoking sci-fi film, now here's a fun popcorn sci-fi film! Rogue One is definitely one of the better Star Wars film, despite the fact that it's not perfectly made. It does a great job of taking a couple sentences from A New Hope's opening crawl and crafting a story you actually care about. The characters and performances are delightful, although you'll wish for more interaction with/development of them. It's got stunning visuals, and plenty of fan service. Gareth Edwards did the impossible...he made a Star Wars prequel you can love (Shots fired.).
(Original Review)

4. Manchester by The Sea
Directed by Kenneth Lonergan
Starring Casey Affleck, Lucas Hedges, and Michelle Williams

You're going to need a serious hug after seeing this film, but that doesn't mean Manchester By The Sea is a film you should avoid. It's an powerhouse drama about family, grief and sacrifice, and at its core is the relationship between an estranged uncle and nephew. Casey Affleck gives a subtle but heavyweight performance in the lead role of Lee Chandler, and newcomer Lucas Hedges plays his nephew Patrick. His performance is spot-on but nothing special (I mean a teenager playing a teenager, not hard to do.) I'm a resident Masshole, so I loved the humor specific to the area, but on top of that the look of Manchester and the New England area is captured perfectly. It's a beautifully shot film. Manchester By The Sea might be a tough watch, and it's not a feel good film, but it's an emotional character study that will jump rope with your heartstrings.

3. Hell or High Water
Directed by David Mackenzie
Starring Jeff Bridges, Chris Pine, and Ben Foster

I've got a secret passion for westerns, and Hell or High Water is exactly that. A modern-day western. It's like The Town in Texas. It's unique in that sense, though some would argue it's got a few storytelling cliches. But Chris Pine and Ben Foster are a perfect pair as are two leads, and Jeff Bridges is hilarious and a real scene-stealer as the Texas Ranger hunting them down. You're not quite sure how it's all going to go down, but it's awesome and it keeps your eyes glued to the screen until the last second. Lastly, the cinematography of the Texas landscape really helps overstate the scale of this small story. It's amazing a film like Hell or High Water got nominated for Best Picture this year. It definitely won't get an Oscar but it's still a winning film.

2. Captain America: Civil War
Directed by Anthony & Joe Russo
Starring Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr. and Sebastian Stan

You knew this was coming. Hell you know what's coming after this. I am who I am, and I loved Captain America: Civil War, and I know a lot of you did too! It's one of Marvel's best, and it's one of the genre's best. It works as a Captain America film, and an Avengers film, but our lead is still centerstage, brining his trilogy to a logical...conclusion? Tipping point? Talk to Feige...Members of the MCU ensemble give some of their best performances, the fight scenes are so impressive, and it raises plenty of questions on morality. Explosive, emotional, and to no surprise, Captain America: Civil War is my second favorite film of 2016.
(Original Review)

What's my favorite? Well before we get to the expected conclusion of this list and you can all roll your eyes at me, here's some other films I really loved from this year but not as much as these ten (In order of release):

The Jungle Book: Another unnecessary remake from Disney that ended up being incredibly well made, and dare I say, better written than the animated original.

The Nice Guys: Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe make a great pair in this funny and compelling neo-noir.

Moana: Beautifully animated and packed with plenty of catchy Lin-Manuel Miranda music, it's another great Disney film with a simple by-the-numbers story.

Doctor Strange: The MCU goes to bold, fantastical new places in one of its finer origin stories, pulled together by an amazing cast, visuals, and score.

Fences: August Wilson's play comes to life with amazing performances. Coming off much more a play being filmed than an actual film, it's got some truly wonderful work from its cast.


Alright here we go. You know it. My top film of 2016 is...


1. La La Land
Directed by Damien Chapelle
Starring Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, and that charming fiend named John Legend

Honestly how could a MUSICAL featuring BUCKETS OF SINGING AND DANCING be CHRIS FLAHERTY'S favorite film of the year?? Yes I'm in the majority, and I see many on the inter webs hating on La La Land, but I digress. It's a heartfelt story about dreams and dreamers, not just show business. Making dreams come true is never an easy task. Challenges and adversity left and right, and many people saying no or slamming doors in your face. La La Land doesn't shy away from the harshness of Hollywood, it's not all sugar-coated song and dance. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone are as captivating as they've ever been, and you'll fall in love with their characters and their stories. There's some gorgeous sets and visuals in the film, the songs are unforgettable, and yes buckets of lovely, captivating, dancing.

As Emma Stone sings, "Here's to the ones who dream, foolish as they may seem" and here's to La La Land. My favorite film of 2016.


Now I can focus on what's coming up this year, like that Beauty & The Beast remake that's either going to make or break-oh crap I forgot to watch Hail, Caesar...

....Happy Oscar Night!!!

Film Review- "Doctor Strange"

Doctor Strange
Directed by Scott Derrickson
Starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Tilda Swinton

The fourteenth film of the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been in theaters for almost a month now. After seeing Doctor Strange multiple times in theaters, as much as I enjoy and love it, I do find it could have been a better product.

Stephen Strange (Cumberbatch) is an accomplished yet arrogant neurosurgeon, who ends up in a terrible car accident, rendering his hands practically useless. After modern medicine fails him again and again, he seeks out the secret compound of Kamar-Taj for other methods of healing. There he learns of things such as multi-dimensions, the astral plane and, in layman's terms, sorcery.

Strange begins to learns the ways of the mystic arts under the guidance of The Ancient One (Swinton) and fellow sorcerer Mordo (Ejiofor). As Strange continues his teachings, the vindictive sorcerer Kaecilius (Mads Mikkelsen) and his army of zealots put into motion a plan to sacrifice the world to the being Dormammu and his dark dimension.

It's easy to compare Strange's origin and character to that of Tony Stark/Iron Man. An arrogant know-it-all goes through something traumatic, is given extraordinary gifts and learns humility, just as a large evil threat-in-the-sky looms overhead. Without giving too much away, I personally saw a bit of parallels between the story of this film and the one of the first Thor film. There's nothing special about Doctor Strange's origin story at the base level, but it's the characters unique setting and abilities that elevate it.

The idea of magic and multiple dimensions is something new to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and the film spectaulrly skyrockets the franchise into this new territory, displaying some truly amazing effects and set pieces for these characters to muck about through. Michael Giacchino's epic score only helps to bring the film's unique tone and aura to life.

Speaking of characters, this cast might be one of the finest Marvel's ever assembled. Benedict Cumberbatch of course is pure gold as the titular character. A fan favorite since we knew this film would happen, he embodies every aspect of the character, and brings both the proper amount of gravitas and sincerity. Chiwetel Ejiofor gives a biblical fierceness to Mordo, that was a highlight of the film for me. Tilda Swinton is both strong and sweet as The Ancient One. Benedict Wong as...Wong, is a hell of a scene stealer. Mads Mikkelsen, while he does a fine job, is another underdeveloped Marvel villain. Rachel McAdams, while she does a fine job, is another underdeveloped Marvel love interest.

This is where I transition into my problems with the film, and it's not just with McAdams and Mikkelsen. While I can praise the performances of the supporting cast, the background and character development left to them in the script is a lot to be desired. McAdams as Christine Palmer is more a plot device then a character and is one of Marvel's weakest leading ladies. We're given two lines of exposition about Kaecilius's backstory, and they're so cryptic we're left to our imagination to figure out where it all went south with him. It's hinted a few times that Mordo's got a dark background of his own (Those of you comic fans know Mordo is one of Doctor Strange's biggest villains), but we learn literally nothing. "You've no idea...the things I've done" he states in the film, and we're left to reply "You're right. We really don't." I understand that this is Strange's origin story, but if these characters are to be a part of his reigon of the MCU, they need to be as well developed as he is. One can only hope that in the inevitable sequel these characters will get their dues.

Is this my first sign of superhero film fatigue? Fourteen films into this franchise, are the patterns all too clear for me now I can't just turn a blind eye, or am I simply doubting the nerd path I've chosen? No of course not, I'm being dramatic. But the problems in Doctor Strange are problems other MCU films that have come before it have had, and I like many, hope to see these problems rectified going forward. Yes the plot of Doctor Strange is a familiar formula, but it's a winning formula and Marvel manages to give it a distinct mold every turn.

So do I consider Doctor Strange a perfect film? No. Do I still love it, consider it one of Marvel's best, and is it one of my favorite Marvel origin stories since Captain America: The First Avenger? Yes. Will it probably be on my Top 10 of the year, even though Captain America: Civil War will be on there too, and will you all roll your eyes at me for being so predictable? More than likely, but haters gonna hate. Complete with stunning visuals, a tremendous cast and beautiful music, stapled in with the usual tropes and formulas, Doctor Strange is a magnificent addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It's pure magic.