FALL MOVIE REVIEWS

Howdy everyone! Unfortunately this has been an incredibly busy semester for me. Trying to balance my classes, an internship, a social life, and this blog has been more difficult then I ever expected. However, this semester I have seen quite a few films and I just wanted to update you guys on all my thoughts and feelings towards these films. So without further ado:

The Magnificent Seven (2016):
This film is a re-make to the 1960 classic, however, it is quite enjoyable and does a lot of service to the original. Although the villain is a very stereotypical and under developed, the team chemistry ultimately turns this film into a fun blockbuster.
Rating: 6.5 out of 10

The Accountant:
The latest action movie was from Warrior director, Gavin Hood, is quite enjoyable. The on-screen chemistry between lead character, Christian Wolff, played by Ben Affleck and Dana Cummings, played by Anna Kendrick is really well done. One complaint with the film is it tends to drag a little, especially towards the final act but it's enjoyable action flick nonetheless.
Rating: 7 out of 10

Doctor Strange:
The highly anticipated addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe does not let down. It's not the greatest film of the shared universe but adds a nice and refreshing touch, especially with fight choreography and visualization. Benedict Cumberbatch and Tilda Swinton are fantastic together and it'll be interesting to see where Marvel goes with the character further down the road.
Rating: 7.8 out of 10

Hacksaw Ridge:
Say what you want about director, Mel Gibson, and his personal life, but if you judge Hacksaw Ridge by the work of art and not the artist then you will love this film. Geared by amazing performances from Andrew Garfield and many others, this film captures the true heroism of a soldier that ran into battle without a gun. The battle scenes are very reminiscent of Saving Private Ryan and incredibly well directed. This snuck into my Top 5 of the year and is well worth the watch.
Rating: 9.6 out of 10

Arrival:
If you go into this movie expecting a guns blazing, sci-fi action movie then you will surely be disappointed. The latest film from Sicario director, Denis Villeneuve, is a first contact story but fantastically written. The more time I've had to ponder this movie, the more I love it. The writing takes a great, unexpected direction and it's so refreshing to see an intellectual sci-fi movie instead of just another action flick. This also managed to land in my Top 5 of the year and it's a very intriguing watch!
Rating: 9.5 out of 10

Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them:
Besides Star Wars, the Harry Potter series is probably my biggest devotion of fanhood. I grew up with the books and original films so I was pretty excited going into this. Although there are some story and dialogue problems, it's such a fun time returning to the wizarding world. The main four cast members of this movie work very well together and it was unique to see the wizarding world that is at hand in America. I had a lot of fun with this movie and it's a great watch for the whole family.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10

Edge of Seventeen:
Going into this movie I was really concerned if the coming of age story for a high school girl would only appeal to that demographic. However, this film most definitely proved me wrong. The characters of this movie are incredibly well fleshed out that appeals to people of all ages or gender. What really makes this movie great though is wonderful performances by Hailee Steinfeld, Woody Harrelson, and Blake Jenner. It's a fantastic movie for anyone who has been in high school and remembers the difficulties that come with it.
Rating: 9.0 out of 10

Moana:
This is the newest film from Disney Animation and I ended up really loving this movie. It's close between this and Zootopia for my favorite animated film of 2016 but this is definitely a fun watch. The music written by Lin Manuel Miranda is incredibly well done and the voice acting between newcomer, Auli'i Cravalho, and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is great. I never knew The Rock could sing so well but his solo song might have stole the show. You can definitely see this film getting some Oscar nominations within the near future.
Rating: 9.4 out of 10

Well that does it for all the films I've missed out on with reviews! Let me know in the comments which films you guys have seen this Fall and which of them was favorite! Thanks!

Top 10 Movies of 2016 (So Far)

   
     2016 has definitely had its ups and downs when it comes to movies. Although this summer fell short in some aspects, there are still some shining moments. Although I have not seen two of three, The Conjuring 2, Lights Out, and Don't Breathe solidified a great summer for horror fans. Unfortunately I am a wimp and will just wait till they come out on Blu Ray. There have definitely been some good movies outside of the summer though. So I have compiled a Top 10 list for you guys. Although we have not got into the heat of Oscar season, there have definitely been some great films so far. I'd also like to state this list is my PERSONAL favorite. It's not necessarily what I think is the best made movie of the year. It's what I consider my favorite. So let's get into it!

10) Coming in that 10 spot is one of the more recent films, War Dogs. Although the film is very formulaic and predictable, the character performances from Miles Teller and Jonah Hill help make this film a lot of fun. It definitely is Wolf of Wall Street meets gun smuggling but the films is still very intriguing.

9) Next up on the list sliding into the number 9 spot is 10 Cloverfield Lane. What I loved about this film is the small, indie feel it had to it. It feels like an isolated thriller much like the original Alien. The core three actors, John Goodman, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and John Gallagher Jr. are fantastic in this. It falls apart a little towards the third act but is still greatly suspenseful.

8) The number 8 movie is Zootopia. 2016 has had quite a few animated hits. However, Zootopia is my favorite that I've seen so far. The best animated films are not only the ones that speak to kids but adults are entranced as well. Zootopia tells a fantastic story and has some spectacular undertones to it. Plus the voice acting of it is just phenomenal.

7) The number 7 spot has been claimed by the Merc. with the Mouth. We finally got to see Deadpool after nearly ten years of development and boy was the wait worth it. This might be the funniest of film of 2016 so far. However, the most surprising part of this film was the heart it has to it. Ryan Reynolds and Morena Baccarin have such a great chemistry. This film is such a refreshing take on the superhero genre.

6) The number 6 spot is occupied by Richard Linklater's Everybody Wants Some. What I love about Linklater is his ability to capture realism. This film follows a college baseball team in Texas and follows their shenanigans the week before classes starts. I had such an awesome time watching this and the characters are so well flushed out. Although the story is not anything crazy, it's nice to get a movie that captures life in college so beautifully.

5) The summer blockbuster season kicked off with Captain America: Civil War and it definitely deserves the number 5 spot. Looking at the task at hand with this film, there are so many characters the Russo Brothers had to fit in and they executed it so well. There's an airport scene that is one of the best action scenes that has been done in awhile. The character development of Cap and Iron-Man is so well captured in this. It's an awesomely fun movie.

4) Number 4 on the list is The Jungle Book. When you see the behind the scenes of this movie, it's crazy to think how well it was done. Neel Sethi who plays Mowgli, was the only actor on set. All the animals were done with CGI and the movie is absolutely stunning. The voice talent is phenomenal and Jon Favreau's direction is breathtaking. It's very difficult not to appreciate the movie.

3) My most recent review is number 3 on the list and that's Hell or High Water. With standout performances from Chris Pine, Ben Foster, and Jeff Bridges, this film is one of the more thrilling and well told stories of any film this year. Every scene has significance and character oriented story is such a breath of fresh air this day in age. The cinematography enhances the story by capturing the barren majority of west Texas as well.

2)  When people criticized that there are not enough original movies these days, I generally scream at them to go see this if they have not already. Number 2 on my list is The Nice Guys. What I love about Shane Black's films is his ability to capture great humor with a very intriguing story to co-align with it. Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe feed off each other so well to help make this movie such a fun time. I also love it when directors make the setting feel like its own character and Shane Black does that with 1970's Los Angeles. Unfortunately it didn't make as much at the box office as it should.

1) The prestigious number 1 spot goes to...Sing Street! This is an independent film that came out in March but it's still my favorite of the year. It tells the story about a kid who transfers to a rougher, inner city school set in Dublin, Ireland when his troubled family has to make cuts in spending. He eventually meets a girl and starts a band to impress her. What I loved so much about this movie is the family aspect. This ultimately a movie for brothers and it ultimately made me tear up (in a good way). The film takes place in the 80's and the soundtrack is phenomenal. It includes original songs and other famous hits of 80's. All the kids in this act beautifully and John Carney's direction helps to bring this film into my number 1 spot.

Alright everyone, well that's it. There are still some movies this year that I have yet to see but these are all great films that I recommend you see!

Hell or High Water Review

     Often times independent movies go unnoticed by the general audience. Usually they do not have a big market release and you can only see them in big cities. However, this does not diminish from the quality of them. It is very much refreshing to see independent films sometimes because there is not as much studio interference which helps to really let the story run its course. One particular independent movie that has been creating a buzz lately with critics is Hell or High Water directed by David Mackenzie. I had the privilege of seeing it last week and the film really delivers. Hell or High Water is such a grounded and well told story, that it could be a real contender when award season comes around.
     The film tells the story of the Howard brothers. One is an a crazy ex-con named Tanner (Ben Foster) and a struggling divorcee named Toby (Chris Pine). When both are struggle to make ends meet, they will take up the crime of bank robbing. Hitting up almost every bank in West Texas seems ideal but when local Chief of Police, Marcus Hamilton (Jeff Bridges) is hot on their tail, they will have to up their strategy.

     What makes this film work so brilliantly is the character dynamics. Pine has always been an actor to me that really shine but audiences do not get to seem enough in non-blockbuster roles. He is phenomenal in this. One reason that his performance is so fantastic is because of his co-actor. Pine and Foster feed off each so well. There is never a dull moment with their scenes. I would not be surprised to see Ben Foster get a Supporting Actor nomination when award season rolls around. The humor in this movie is so honest and the dialogue is beautifully crafted. They are not the only incredible performances in this film though. Jeff Bridges as rough, Texas Ranger is a marvelous pick. His co-officer is played by Gil Birmingham and their relationship is so exceptional. Character dynamics and dialogue gives this movie so much value.
     Great directors are able to use the setting of their movie to their advantage. David Mackenzie does just that with this. Mackenzie uses the west Texas landscape to add suspense. Mackenzie almost makes Texas feel like its own character since it's so wonderfully constructed. The music and editing help to add suspense as well. The pacing in this movie is incredible.
     There is only a minor complaint and its a nitpick so it really does not count. There's one scene in particular that's a little predictable. However, the set up and suspense is so good that it does not take away much from the movie.
     I cannot recommend this film enough. So often people complain about how we get too many reboots and remakes yet they will not go support original ideas in theaters. So go see Hell or High Water because it is absolutely excellent.

Rating: 9.9 out of 10

War Dogs Review

    There is Jonah Hill, weapon smuggling, and endless Scarface references. War Dogs should have it all, right? Although it has comedic elements, it's primarily a drama and is a good next step for director Todd Phillips. This movie has gotten very mixed reviews which makes the viewing experience appealing. Although War Dogs has some problems, it is ultimately a well directed story with very solid performances.
     War Dogs is based on the true story of two weapon smugglers named David Packouz (Miles Teller) and Efraim Diveroli (Jonah Hill). When the duo scores a $300 million contract from the Pentagon, they soon realize that the weapon smuggling business is a crazy ride.

     The directing of this film is something that very much stands out. Phillips style of directing is very reminiscent of Adam McKay's style with The Big Short. Both come from a comedic directing background and their style is very similar. The movie includes lots of freeze frames and jump cuts. The tone and structure is very much like The Wolf of Wall Street that really works for this film. Todd Phillips also directs in a way that exhibits good performances from his actors.
     The actor that stood out the most to me was Miles Teller. When this kids picks the right roles, he really shines. Audiences need him to do more films like Whiplash and War Dogs. His character was the best developed in this entire movie. Jonah Hill very much plays the same character from The Wolf of Wall Street. He does it very well though. Although the character's writing had some problems.
     Jonah Hill's character Efraim is often times very over the top. He does this weird chuckle that is humorous at the beginning but then loses its lust when it's over done. You knew exactly what this character was all about because we've seen it done in film over and over again
     The story for this movie is well directed. However, it is also very predictable at times. Without getting into spoilers, there are often times when you can tell exactly what the character's motivations are going to be. It is very formulaic and just goes through the beats. Even the soundtrack has songs that are constantly overused in films.
     The pacing of this story overall is pretty good. It only has a runtime of 2 hours and 2 minutes. However, the first hour feels like two. It takes awhile to gain momentum. Overall though, I had a fun time with this movie. The story had me entertained and very pleasantly surprised.

Rating: 7.5 out of 10

Sausage Party Review

     When most people flock to animated movies they are generally hoping to see a fun, family movie that are mainly aimed at the demographic of young children. Well, Sausage Party is the complete opposite of that. The rated R, animated comedy uses the most of its rating in as many different ways as possible.
     Written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, Sausage Party tells the story of a sausage named Frank (Seth Rogen) who seeks the be purchased at the local grocery store due to his belief in "The Great Beyond". When Frank and his buddies discover "The Great Beyond" may just be a lie to keep the groceries in line, they will go through great obstacles to discover the real truth.

      The positives of this comedy are very much evident. The opening scene of this movie slowly escalates into hilarious vulgarity. The first act of this movie is really entertaining and there is tremendous voice talent at work. With talent such as Seth Rogen, Kristen Wiig, Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, Danny McBride, and much more, the comedy almost always hit. Rogen and Goldberg definitely display their abilities to push the boundaries. This film touches on multiple jokes in the realm religion, race, and sex. After watching it, I felt like I needed to attend church.
     What also is admiring about the movie is the direction that the story takes. Without getting into spoilers, this movie definitely took me by surprise by where the film is primarily located. There are a lot more moving parts then anticipated.
     The shining moment of this movie though is the last 20 minutes. There is a certain montage without getting into spoilers that steals the show. It will not only make audiences super uncomfortable but will also have them rolling on the floor laughing. The first and third act of this movie are what really carry the film.
     The biggest struggle with this movie is the second act. There are often jokes that do not quite fall with the audiences and its set up for the third act takes awhile. The jokes often times getting very repetitive and it loses a bit of its taste. There is a taco played by Selma Hayek that almost felt unnecessary to the story. They pretty much played on the same joke with the character over and over again.
     Although Sausage Party is not the best work from Rogen and Goldberg, it definitely has its outstanding moments.  It not the greatest comedy but it's definitely a fun movie. I would recommend seeing it in theaters, especially with a big audience.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10

Stranger Things Review

     I am aware this is a Netflix exclusive and would fall more into the television spectrum. With that being said though, this episodic story feels like an eight hour movie. With all the talk around it and the great bundle of 1980 references, it was really difficult for me to turn down the opportunity to review this show. So let's get into it!
     When 12 year old Will Byers mysteriously disappears one night, the city of Hawkins, Indiana is not quite what it seems. An unpleasant government agency, a supernatural creature, and a psychokinetic girl all mysteriously stumble into this harmonious, midwestern town. With the help of a desperate mother, a rugged cop, and a group of kids, they'll soon discover that there is something more sinister at hand.

     Where to even begin with the positives of this show? The whole writing of this show is freaking superb. Never have I watched a show with only eight, one hour episodes that developed all of its characters so beautifully. There are so many moving parts to this story that writers, Matt and Ross Duffer, executed it in spectacular fashion. I read an article that stated its a Steven King script meets a Stephen Spielberg movie and that is very much evident. There are so many unique nods to the 80's that it feels like The Goonies, Star Wars, Poltergeist, The Thing, and much more bundled up into one epic story. A lot of shows/movies have tried to replicate the 80's but I am not sure any brought you there quite like this show. Plus there are some rad 80's tunes involved.
     The characters are written so magnificently. However, they are really brought to life by the performances of the show. While there are so many great performances in the show I am only going to highlight on a couple that really stood out to me.
     David Harbour plays the rough, police chief named Jim Hopper and I would be very surprised if studios are not lining up to land this guy in an upcoming film. He is very much the Han Solo like character of this series but we get this very heartbreaking backstory that helps to understand why he is so engulfed in searching for Will. Another sensational performances comes from Gaten Matarazzo who plays Dustin. Matarazzo's character is very much the comedic relief of this show but man does the kid hit it out of the park. His timing not only great but he can also be very intelligent when it is called upon the character. All the kids actors elevate this show to the next level but he is the one that really resonated with me.
     The soundtrack for this show is something that is very much in the forefront and very much should be. The creative choice by the Duffers to use synthesizers to add suspense gives it an unnerving feel very much resembling Jaws or the original Halloween score. We are also given awesome 80's jam that include The Clash, Toto, and Modern English that will make you want to go out to buy this soundtrack.
     I can honestly say there are hardly any negatives to this gorgeously crafted show. There is one nitpick and that comes from Winona Ryder who plays Will's mother, Joyce Byers. The first two or so episodes it feels like she is overacting at times. However, once her story gets into motion, she is phenomenal. So I wouldn't even consider her much of complaint.
     I can not highly recommend this show enough. I promise you that you will binge watch this show and it won't bore you for a second. It's a love letter to 80's cinema but it never feels overbearing. Please go watch this when you get the chance!

Rating: 10 out of 10

Suicide Squad Review

     The second film of the DCEU is the longly awaited Suicide Squad. After Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice was a disappointment to critics and a fair number of fans, movie goers have been incredibly intrigued to see what the reception would be for the next film in DC's playbook. Suicide Squad presents us with a government assembled team of supervillains in order to take down a bigger threat in exchange for time off their prison sentence. Well audiences have the opportunity to finally see Suicide Squad this weekend. The potential for this movie is evident when watching but it doesn't quite hit the target. While this film fantastically introduces and develops new characters of the DCEU, its plot is too chaotic and the villain is a huge setback.

      The biggest positive of this movie is some of the character writing and performances. Will Smith brings his A game as Deadshot. Going in to the film, it was a worry that Smith was going to take over the film with screen time. However his character gets a fair amount of screen time and beautifully delivers when he's up to bat. Another performer that goes above and beyond for her role is Margo Robbie as Harley Quinn. Her comedic chops were on point and she did great when action was needed. I felt like I was watching the 90's Batman cartoon portrayal of Harley Quinn. The range for her was incredible. Furthermore, the most talked about role going into this movie was Jared Leto as The Joker. I will say the sample size we get in this movie is way too small to compare him to Heath Ledger's performance. However Leto is creepy as hell in this iconic role. The writing for this character is definitely going in a different direction then any other on-screen Joker. It's a shame we did not get more scenes with him.
     Another huge positive was the chemistry with the members of the team. Most of the characters in the squad interact very well and it feels very authentic. We understand a lot of the characters motivations especially when dealing with a far more evil puppet master with Amanda Waller played by Viola Davis.
     Now we get to the negatives. The largest negative of this film is the plot. Once the squad actually starts on their mission, this movie lacks in a lot of aspects. The plot is often times very chaotic and the pacing does not allow for the scenes to develop. Its never really evident to the audiences as to what threat the squad is trying to stop in the city. Its plot is what very much makes this movie forgettable at times.
     The writing for this movie struggles a lot. The dialogue ultimately falls flat at times. Some might even think cringe worthy. There were heavy rumors that David Ayer only had 6 weeks to write this screenplay and after seeing this film it would not surprise me if this was true.
     The villain for this movie is also a huge mistake. I don't want to get into spoilers. However the villain's motivations are never stated and the performance is ultimately dull. It is very much just a stereotypical villain that wants world domination...Except we never know why she's evil, which is much worse.
     This is one of the most anticipated movies of the summer and I know people that actually really enjoyed this movie. So I cannot encourage you enough to go this movie and go decide for yourself. I run this blog not to drill you with my opinion and have you regurgitate it. My purpose running this is to communicate my ideas. When you see the film I want you to look at my views and be like "I see where's he coming from yet I disagree" or "I see where he's coming from and I actually really agree with his statements". When I state in all my posts whether or not you should see it, that's my personal opinion. So for Suicide Squad, I would say go see it because this is a very divisive movie that you should witness in the theater and develop your own opinion. However it didn't quite land for me.

Rating: 5.0 out of 10