Janurary note worthy releases (official trailers)

Insidious: The Last Key, Jan.5.2018

I made the mistake of watching this trailer at night knowing full well how I get with Insidious films...this is gonna be good. I would have never thought the films would revolve heavily around the medium.

The Commuter Jan.12.2018
Liam Neeson......running and fighting. that's all I need to know and I'm sold.

Proud Mary, Jan .12. 2018

Should be interesting, it wouldn't be the first time she played a hit man...


Den of Thieves, Jan.19.2018
These kind of movies are a dime a dozen, but it doesn't mean they're any less entertaining...Gerard butler? I guess I'm on board.


12 Strong, Jan.19.2018
I've always enjoyed a good military flick and the casting on this looks promising.


Maze Runner: The Death Cure, Jan.26.2018

Dylan O'Brien, that's all I'm gonna say about that....

Jumanji (2017)

⭐⭐

Directed by:  Jake  Kasdan
Written by: Scott Rosenberg , Jeff Pinkner, Chris McKenna, Erik Sommers 
Gross Revenue: $168.60 mil

re·boot
restart or revive (a process or sequence, especially a series of films or television programs); give fresh impetus to:

        I understand this is a reboot given what the definition above implies, it was trying to revive Jumanji and bring something new to the table. I'm not going to sit here analyze every piece of this film  and say "well in the original jumanji.."  because that's not what this is.  This is not a verbatim retelling of the original, its a sorta kinda sequel I guess. Although there are a few things that do permit comparison, I'll discuss that in a bit. Everyone seems to get so flustered and paranoid with reboots thinking its just a hard reset to an already good movie or franchise. That's not always the case, and thank goodness that wasn't the case here. The original is good as is and I am happy they kept it that way. 

       Now, what can be said about this kind of sequel? Well, it was fun and entertaining, that's just about the end of it. I always enjoy The Rock, Kevin hart and the always hilarious Jack black in anything they're starring in. So it's no surprise that I'd want to see it based on star power. It goes without saying that I was pretty anxious to see this, as a child I always wanted to know just where Allen Parish went. Sure Jumanji came to him, but I wanted to see the real world, I wanted to see more.  When I heard  another Jumanji was coming and that's  where they were going, I was stoked as hell. You can imagine my disappointment over Christmas weekend, I was sure I was going to just fall head over heels in love with it. Alas, I did not. I like it, do not get me wrong it has total watchability but there are a few errors that set it staggering down to a 2 star review.

   The casting did an amazing job with the leading and supporting roles, I don't have any issues with that but Van Pelt??? Horrible, horrible choice, of all the people to choose from they choose Bobby Cannavale?? Seriously, the original Van Pelt? Johnathan Hyde, yeah he's still alive they could have just called him up. They included Allen Parrish for a sec, eluding to the fact that it is a sequel so, why change Van Pelt?? That wasn't the only element I found to be absent, where was the other worldly feel that the first Jumanji held? I mean this was the world Allen Parish came from, so why didn't it feel like it? Where was the sense of danger? The sense of  "omg what's coming next?" There was really nothing that made it seem even similar to the world Allen claimed it was in the first. There were no man eating flowers, vines that would bury you alive, no dog sized spiders or mischievous monkeys. Honestly, they could have been in any jungle around the world, nothing out of the ordinary and that's what bothered me most.

        As a standalone it's amusing and the cast does a good enough job in the comedic department  so that kept me semi engaged. I enjoy role swapping films and light hearted survivalist flicks so it wasn't a total loss. I say if your okay with a jumanji movie not really being a jumanji movie then by all means give it a go. Especially if you like Jack Black, I found him to be just a tad bit funnier than Kevin Hart who was good, but gave his usual "Kevin" performance. Not quite sure if this will make my worst of 2017 list or the best but I am glad they gave it a shot. In the type or world we live in now, I'm  sure we will see another Jumanji in the near future.

Bright

⭐⭐⭐
Directed by: David Ayer
Written by: Max Landis


This was by far the most anticipated movie on Netflix for me since, well.....ever. At no other time have I said "hay, oh man I wanna see that Netflix movie, I cant wait." that is until now. I wont sit here and flat out lie and say Will Smith isn't what initially sold me on it because at first it was. However, as I started mulling over the plot I began to get more and more excited. After the first initial watch Iiked it, then after the second, I loved it!! The whole idea of Orcs, Elves and magic is such a soft spot for me, there is no way I could not fall in love with it. Then for extra magnificent measure they set it in modern day which I love way more than a period piece set in the dark ages. It adds to it's realism and edge, it seems like something not qute so unbelievable and I think it worked beautifully.

       The only, and I mean only weak link which isn't even consistent is the dialogue. It was a little pestering but as I said that wasn't even consistent, at times the dialogue was pretty good. Max Landis did alright, however I don't know where he got the idea this script would be his "Star Wars".I have no quarrels with the story it self and I'm very anxious to see how it all unfolds, seeming as Bright  is being pinned a Netflix franchise. People have been chatting about the whole wand thing, "well why could the cop hold it and the other guy blew up?" Well, if most were actually paying attention which I hope they were, when Montehugh was being interrogated he explained when someone touches the wand with their BARE hand they explode. He said nothing about if it's gloved or covered by fabric of some sort. I have no issues with the story, why on earth would they give everything away in the first film? Why would they provide all the answers? They need a vehicle for the upcoming films and I'm okay with that.

    David Ayer is THE man, I loved Suicide Squad and I love his style!! How can you not feel his movies with the amount of realism and grit he adds to them? How can you hate on the man who wrote and directed Training Day??  I will watch this over and over again, that's how much I liked it.  You cannot go wrong with orcs, guns and magic!!

Justice League

🌟🌟

Directed by: Zack Snyder
Written by: Joss Whedon, Zack Snyder
Gross Revenue: $634 mil



    In a perfect world the DCEU would be everything I've ever wanted and more. The movies would be the stuff that hopes and dreams are made of. However, this isn't a perfect world, in fact the DCEU is what pure blood drenched nightmares are made of. It seemed to be a Batman vs Superman man lite in the opening. Then, it was followed up with an all too rushed character round up, only to sputter to a hault with the all too weak Villainous battle.

   

        Before I continue let me say I did not come at this with any expectations seeming as I'm not a true DC fan. However from a movie point of view I thought I was going to legitimately enjoy it. I didn't go into this with a biased attitude being I love marvel. I would really love to enjoy a DCEU movie, seriously I'd love for them to be on the same level as marvel. That just never seems to happen, I haven't been entertained by a DC film since the watchmen. Not saying they all don't have elements I enjoy.

      For instance the best part of the movie was Auquamans cornball lines and Barry's awkward humor. I'd love to see a Flash movie and I'm excited for Auquaman, he had a more commanding on screen presence. More so than Superman whom of which was as always, quite boring and well, batman is Ben Affleck....nuff said. The visuals were good, if you like made for TV effects. I've seen better CGI in a Netflix series.

    Like I've stated, in a perfect world I wouldn't have to say all this. However, for some reason they just can't seem to pull a good movie off in this day in age. WW aside because that is a whole different monster, I believe it was only successful due to where society is at  in terms of gender equality. Not, because it was a good film. Anyway, I may be making a mistake by having high hopes for Auquaman, but I can't help it. I like his delivery, as bad as his one liners were his presence is electric.  Maybe the next JL will be everything we wanted and then some, at least that's what I'm gonna pray for.

Thor: Ragnarok

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


Directed by: Taika Waititi
Written by: Christopher Yotes, Craig Kyle, Eric Pearson
Gross Revenue: $835 mil



Jaw dropped and wig snatched folks!! Taika Waititi just resuscitated this lifeless, dead to the world frannchise and brought it back to life. Words are escaping me at the moment, Ragnarok was so good it's stolen my passion for expression...I'm all choked up on pure joy. I typically wait for the dust to settle to view a big Budget CBM. Don't ask me why, it's just how I tick. Now, as I was saying ....or trying to say, THIS IS WHAT A CBM SHOULD FEEL AND LOOK LIKE.  This is how you set the bar, this is why Marvel is far superior to the "other guys". From beginning to end it served up all the goods, from Directing, witty fun dialouge, flawless and I mean flawless visuals that make me wanna kiss everyone on the CGI team! It was all so beautiful, I'm talking a rose dipped in 24 kt gold and sprinkled with diamonds beautiful.

If you like the melancholic, dark, abrasive, slow cinematic experience then please, stay far way from Ragnarok, because you'd be getting none of that. Tears literally were welling in my eyes, I was so very pleased with this Thor and yet so very saddened. I feel, man handled, short changed, frickin robbed!!! This is the Thor we should have been gifted with long ago! Nope, what'd we get?A boring, bloated, lengthy origin film, and crawling half dead dumpster fire called Dark World. Why, oh why, give me the best Thor I've ever witnessed in the last solo installment?? Cold wold, cold, cold world.

There were so many good elements in this movie. Mmm Thor, Hulk holding a legitimate conversation, Jeff Goldblum as himself, the witty banter, Thor with no hammer, Thor with no hair and korg....I severely wanted more of him!! Oh, and let's not forget that sexy little fight bit in the last act! I think thaaaatsss about it......oh right LOKI, he's flipped flopped more than a pair of nike slides worn by Usain Bolt. However, I'm willing to get over it as long as I get to keep seeing his beautiful face!

I just am so very pleased with this movie, there isn't a word big enough that describes my feelings at the moment.  I'm not someone who lives and breathes for the next superheo movie, but marvel sure knows how to make a girl sweat. I'm so anxious to see infinity war now, my bones are vibrating!! If this is the kind of delivery they've committed to I'm so in for the next 20 movies they've got in the slow cooker.

Birdman

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Directed by: Alejandro González Iñárritu
Written by:  Alejandro González Iñárritu, Nicolás Giacobone, Alexander Dinelaris Jr., and Armando Bo
Gross revenue: $105 mil

So, why am I just now seeing this? Keaton's in it so I should have seen it a while ago but nope
this was a first time watch for me. I must say I do not understand people who say this film wasn't any good, did we not see the same version?? It seems so harsh to say this was a "bad" movie, it was original and severely entertaining. The writing alone kept me engaged to the point I got upset I had to use the restroom. You'd think it'd be a horrible mess given how big the writing team was, but they did an amazing job! Alejandro  per usual, is spectacular I'm a huge fan of his films they always seem to get some sort of critical acclaim, he's great at what he does. This, is Michael Keaton at his best folks, he had been more or less absent before this. Birdman was a terrific re-introduction of Keaton. Phenomenal comes to mind, I enjoyed this so much & I crave more creative films such as this. The camera flow was so beautiful and the cast was down right electric! Love love love!

Golden Globe Nominees

⭐The 75th Annual Golden Globe Nominees⭐

  

  

       Before I start let me get this out of the way the GG's kind of sets the "Tone" for the Oscars and well, is it horrible of me to say I'm not all that excited about some of these noms?? Bare in mind I haven't seen any of the best picture nominees, which I will by the time the Oscars roll around. I make it my duty every year to see the movies nominated for best picture. So I cant say whether or not these films deserve it but, I was never all that hyped to see any of them in the first place except for 3, "The Disaster Artist, Get Out, and The Shape of Water" which isn't even available yet in my state yet. I guess time will tel for me if I like any of them. Here ate the lucky nominees in film. The Golden Globes Premiers On Jan 7, 2018, on NBC at 5pm Pacific and 8pm Eastern.

Best Motion Picture (Drama)
Call Me by Your Name
Dunkirk
The Post
The Shape of Water
Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri


Best Motion Picture (Musical/Comedy)
The Disaster Artist
Get Out
The Greatest Showman
I, Tonya
Lady Bird


Best Motion Picture (Animated)
The Boss Baby
The Breadwinner
Ferdinand
Coco
Loving Vincent


Best Actor in a Motion Picture (Drama)
Timothée Chalamet, Call Me by Your Name
Daniel Day-Lewis, Phantom Thread
Tom Hanks, The Post
Gary Oldman, Darkest Hour
Denzel Washington, Roman J. Israel, Esq.


Best Actress in a Motion Picture (Drama)
Jessica Chastain, Molly’s Game
Sally Hawkins, The Shape of Water
Frances McDormand, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
Meryl Streep, The Post
Michelle Williams, All the Money in the World


Best Actor in a Motion Picture (Musical/Comedy)
Steve Carell, Battle of the Sexes
Ansel Elgort, Baby Driver
James Franco, The Disaster Artist
Hugh Jackman, The Greatest Showman
Daniel Kaluuya, Get Out


Best Actress in a Motion Picture (Musical/Comedy)
Judi Dench, Victoria & Abdul
Margot Robbie, I, Tonya
Saoirse Ronan, Lady Bird
Emma Stone, Battle of the Sexes
Helen Mirren, The Leisure Seeker


Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture
Willem Dafoe, The Florida Project
Armie Hammer, Call Me by Your Name
Richard Jenkins, The Shape of Water
Christopher Plummer, All the Money in the World
Sam Rockwell, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri


Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture
Mary J. Blige, Mudbound
Hong Chau, Downsizing
Allison Janney, I, Tonya
Laurie Metcalf, Lady Bird
Octavia Spencer, The Shape of Water

Best Director (Motion Picture)
Guillermo del Toro, The Shape of Water
Martin McDonagh, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
Christopher Nolan, Dunkirk
Ridley Scott, All The Money in the World
Steven Spielberg, The Post


Best Screenplay (Motion Picture)
The Shape of Water
Lady Bird
The Post
Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
Molly’s Game


Best Original Score (Motion Picture)
Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
The Shape of Water
Phantom Thread
The Post
Dunkirk


Best Foreign Film
A Fantastic Woman
First They Killed My Father
In the Fade
Loveless
The Square


Best Original Song (Motion Picture)
Ferdinand – ‘Home’
Mudbound – ‘Mighty River’
Coco – ‘Remember Me’
The Star – ‘The Star’
The Greatest Showman – ‘This Is Me’

The Mountain Between Us

🌟🌟

Directed by: Hany Abu-Assad
Written by: Chris Weitz - J. Mills Goodloe
Gross revenue: $54.7 mil

Charismatic, the term cannot be any less relevant when you're dealing with Idris Elba & Kate Winslet. I love these two as separate beings, but when they come together my lort it was like a spark ignited. The mountain between us takes two very normal people and throws them into a survivalist type of situation. Now I'm all for snow and the elements, but I feel that's all this movie had going for itself. Kate & Idris ? Phenom....as usual, story??? Not so much.  Being based off of the Novel written by Charles Martin, I'm almost entirely sure - though I've never read it - this film didn't do it justice.

This movie had a 2 man writing team, and not one could shell out a decent plot?? One of which, Chris Weitz who's been behind, Star Wars: Rouge One, The Golden Comapss and About a Boy should have been able to help with the dull romance.  Given how much I like Idris and Kate this movie deserves 2 stars and a half star simply because I loved the idea of those two in an on screen romance.

The unrealistic story line from the very beginning rubbed me entirely wrong. Then the whole "cmon" factor never crossed, it was was one mistake after another and besides their cute flirty banter, I wasn't really thrilled about it. I wasn't bored watching it so it wasn't awful.

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (Official Trailer)

I love this franchise, but when I heard another was being pushed out I was wondering, what else could be done? Seems universal has surprised me again! Next year is going to be amazing for cinema!!!

 I've never been so emotionally connected to fictionalized beings before. This trailer brought on such an amount of "awwwww" it was alarming. The Dino's I once loathed, I now feel unbelievably bad for. I have a feeling I may cry when I see it! However, here it is the much anticipated Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom!

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (teaser trailer)

Behold!! The ninth wonder of the world!! Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom teaser now available!!! I love the fact that the last has not changed!!

Avengers: infinity War (official trailer)

   


      This is what the good life looks like!! From the start I was drawn in, this made me so anxious to see the movie.  Truth be told I'm not a snob, I am not particular about CGI. True, I'd like it to look better then something  "made for TV" but other than that I'm no stickler in that regard. I see nothing wrong with how it looks, it gave me chills, the whole bit. I literally got misty eyed. Only a few films have me so emotionally invested. Guardias though??? at the end was so beautiful!!! May 4th cannot come fast enough!!!

Avengers: Infinity War Trailer 11.29.17

Infinity War trailer will premier tomorrow on GoodMorning America!! THIS IS NOT A DRILL! We as MCU fans have waited a long while for this!! Excuse me while I get a little emotionally involved with the trailer!!!

Murder on The Orient Express

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Directed by:  Kenneth Branagh
Written by: Michael Green
Gross Revenue:  $196 mil

From beginning to end this was spectacular. From the dialogue, to the off train shots, to the cinematography. I am deeply in love with a magnificent period piece, Murder on The Orient Express was no exception. The cast was phenomenal and I've never read the novel, but it felt like a good mystery book on screen. I just loved it, it had a feel to it that made it seem more classic than modern and that was a good treat.

I am not understanding the whole "boring" bit, its a mystery not a action/suspense/ thriller I never once got that vibe from the trailers. There's no way anyone should have went into this with any type of action or thrill seeking expectations. Looking at the trailers would let you know straight off, thats not what this was about. You ever played the game Clue?? Yea, its kinda like that....

I need more of this, more art, more depth, for some crazy reason the filmmaking industry are scared of films like this. The box office wants nothing to do with them, everyone is so concerned with the next dollar made and daily numbers. The mainstream film world is congested with the next big CBM or  the next cinematic universe. When did become we so concerned with  the tone of a film rather than what it made us feel?? I love big budgets just as much as the next person, but films like Murder on The Orient Express really makes my passion for cinema burn. For a film that was released between thor & justice league I believe it didn't do too bad!

The Anticipated Return of 007

       So there is some great little bit of news in the Bond Universe, that I am a little happy to hear. MGM is close to making a domestic deal with Annapurna for Bond 25 this week, and I am here for it! For those who don't know, Annapurna is a little known production company who's made some ripples in the movie world. The makings behind movies such as, Zero dark 30 and American Hustle. They've most recently dipped their toe into distribution waters with Detroit, which did reasonably well. This deal in my opinion could turn this companies world upside down, in such an amazing way.

 

       The ball is moving smoothly and I'm hoping it stays that way. Daniel Craig is fully on board with the final draft of his contract to be signed by the end of the week. November 8th 2019 is the release date and as we al know that could be pushed forward or back, no date is set in stone. Although no director has been selected the three contenders are Yann Demange (’71), Denis Villeneuve (Blade Runner 2049), and David Mackenzie (Hell or High Water). I'm hoping it will be David Mackenzie I love Hell or High Water, it was a amazing and his style just cant be beat. 2 years is quite a while to start my Bond posts but I really need this to start moving. We need to erase Spectre from our memory, or maybe just I do. That was no way to close Bond and I felt we all needed another go at it. So I am very thrilled this is headed in that direction.

Kingsman: The Golden Circle

 

⭐⭐⭐


Directed by: Matthew Vaughn
Written by: Matthew Vaughn & Jane Goldman
Gross Revenue: $310 mil






     I'm so upset that I have to write this review, because I am a huge Kingsman fan and I still watch the first one at least twice a month. Sad, is the only word I can to describe how I'm feeling at this moment. Seriously, when I say I was excited for this movie I mean it. I had the Kingsman as my wallpaper for a good 2 months. I am not going to sugar coat it, I went in with extremely high expectations and that was my mistake. I wanted to fall in love with this as much as I did the first but oh man, that so didn't happen. Who knows w what happened with Matthew Vaughn and Jane Goldman, they wrote such an amazing story the first time it was close to perfect. The dialogue was great and the story? Even better, the golden circle seems like it was written by someone else, it didn't have the same energetic feel the first had.

     For one, the promotion made it seem like the new cast was going to be incredible and that wasn't the case. Channing Tatum could have been a non mention cameo, hell Jeff Bridges  was seen all of maybe three times and Halle Barry? Well she sat the entire film. Not to mention, in my opinion eggsy got diluted, he wasn't as bad ass as he was in the first and harry? We all know how disappointing that was. The villain was horribly weak, and I love Julianne Moore, but that was not a good choice for an antagonist role. Elton John had more of a part than any of the newly promoted cast members!!! The one saving grace this movie had was the unbelievably  amazing fight scenes that you come to expect with a Kingsman movie.


     The last and final pet peeve I have with the movie is the ending, that was a hot dumpster fire and I absolutely loathed it....... A wedding??? Really Matthew Vaughn? And Merlin, was that necessary???!!! I know it seems I hated it judging by my complaints but I didn't hate it, I was.......amused by it. I really, really hope the next (if it happens) is better than this huge misstep.

Atomic Blond

🌟🌟🌟🌟

Directed by: David Leitch
Written by: Antony Johnston & Kurt Johnstad
Gross Revenue: $95 mil

David leitch has Atomic Blonde & John Wick under his belt, and I must say this is a very very good start. His style and his shots are amazing. I love love love john wick and this movie feels like a film made 10 years ago which is fantastic, this is cinema. Regardless of the accuracy, the film itself was magnificent the scene cuts and the fights were glorious.

Though I love Charlize, her accent could have used some work but thats petty much my only complaint. Something about the last shot of her in the interrogation room made me misty eyed, it was beautiful. The visual and colors were so great & the costume designer?!

I'm a woman, so let me just say I couldn't not get enough of her outfits my lawd talk about a slay. I really really enjoyed it I will defiantly watch it again. The soundtrack? Don't even get me started on how amazing that was! The dialouge wasn't as air tight as I'd hoped but thats not what this film was about. The actors executed their roles with precision and accuracy
I truly couldnt ask for a better cast. Look, if you dont like action and strong female presence then you are aolrely missing out, this....is a gem. Who needs diana?? This is what MY WONDER WOMAN LOOKS LIKE!!!

Official Trailer Wes Anderson's Isle Of Dogs 2017

 I am more than sure i have stressed my love for Wes Anderson, so it comes as no surprise I bring to you his new creation. Isle Of Dogs, the official trailer has me more than excited to see it. If you adore stop motion like I do this should be a real awesome movie!! Enjoy!!

The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Directed by: Wes Anderson

Written by: Wes Anderson & NoahBaumbach
Gross Revenue: $50 mil

It took me years to see this movie! I suppose it was due partially to when it was released I could care less about weird but brilliant films like these. I was all movie of the month, big blockbuster "franchises" back then. Cate blanchette, Bill Murray, Jeff Goldblum, and Willem I found to be so amusing it hurt. I mean really what's not to love about this movie??

This is my first time seeing it, I loved Grand Budapest so I figured why not see every other Wes Anderson movie ever made. His movies make me so happy. I love his style, his use of color and environment its always so amazing!! I really really love this movie, the dialogue as usual is a precious commodity and I couldn't get enough!! Isle of dogs is going to be fantastic!! Wes Anderson is so amazing!

Blade Runner

🌟🌟🌟🌟

Directed by: Ridley Scott
Written by: Hampton Fancher, David Peoples
Gross Revenue: $27 mil

I've seen reviews from all sides, some claiming this to be a masterpiece others saying it's the worst. Most of the nay Sayers.....most, not all seem to be young. I have yet to see it but, they praise 2049 for being art and unlike anything we've ever seen. However, I believe there is just a disconnect and with so many years in between for this generation it may just be outdated. Seeming as the term "slow" seems to be used a lot when people review it, but I didn't see an issue with it.

It may be because I was born in the 80s and I was raised on this generation of cinema.If you watch classics, were born in the 80's, or before you know what I am talking about, every movie back then didn't move at light speed.However, you must take into account this is not an action movie it is sci-fi.

All in all I liked it, I truly did, I liked Harrison Ford he did good...he was Harrison Ford. I just don't know where all the performance bashing is coming from as far as he's concerned. The graphics well, it was magnificent for its time I still think it looked amazing. I've seen worse when it comes to visuals and 1980's cinema.

American Made

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Directed b\y: Doug Liman
Written by: Gary Spinelli

Gross Revenue: $80 mil

Isn't it great seeing Tom Cruise in something other than mission impossible?? (the mummy aside) His onscreen charisma just doesn't fade, I mean he can put people in seats just to hear him speak. This was one crazy almost unbelievable turn of events that I don't think you could possibly make up. Though I am sure this film only scratched the surface on what "truly" took place between Barry and his multiple dark dealings. However, I enjoyed it immensely and Doug Liman did an okay job in capturing this off the wall recount of events. Whoever this Gary Spenelli is I dig his writing just a bit, it wasn't a masterpiece but it did flow in a very appealing way.

I find that this was more of the Tom Cruise we haven't seen in a long time. Even though this was a good movie he still carried it on his back, as he does with most other movies he stars in.  Now I am not complaining about that, unlike most I'm not ashamed to say I love Tom cruise, I have since The Firm. Hes the man with the magnetic charm and 1000 dollar smile that will sell ticket no matter what the movie is about. Is this flick worth 5 stars? No, but it I feel 4 is generous enough.

(Official Trailer) Pacific Rim 2 Uprising

I loved the first Pacific Rim I've seen it about 7 times and it never gets old. This sequel is something I wasn't all too happy about seeming as there was no Guillermo at the helm or Charlie Hunnam on screen but now seeing the trailer I can honestly say I am thrilled. Lets not take away the fact that John Boyega who I am coming to enjoy more and more is headlining this new Jaeger crew. Along side him is Scott Eastwood, who is proving hes more than just a pretty face. The cast isn't too shabby especially since they kept charlie Day, who is always a treat to watch...for me at least.  

I am such a sucker for these kinds of movies I mean transformers and CBM'S are the stuff dreams are made of. I know its not art and it's no "best picture" nomination, but it is escapism in its rawest form and that's what brought me to film in the first place. A little reminder, there is no Guillermo in on this so it wont have his finesse or style. Its directed by Steven S. DeKnight,  if it doesn't ring any bells that's because he's virtually unknown. He's directed episodes for Smallville, Angel and Buffy the vampire slayer,  I know most of those are making some of you cringe with fear. However,  I watched each and every one of those shows from the pilot to the series finale and they are not that bad. He also did some work on Starz's Spartecus which I've never seen.  

I'm a little nervous on the execution, seeming as they have a FIVE MAN WRITTING TEAM...yes you heard that right. Five, and you know what they say about too many cooks in the kitchen. Anyway, without further interruption with my constant blabbering, here is the very awesome and well scored Pacific Rim Uprising trailer...ENJOY!

Mother!

⭐⭐



Directed by: Darren Aronofsky
written by: Darren Aronofsky
Gross Revenue: $35.4 mil




         Now I get why there are so many "mixed" reviews, this is literally a love or hate type of movie. Through the film I found Jennifer Lawrence to be strangely annoying & I usually love her in her roles. This one? Not so much, I mean her performance seemed very shallow & withdrawn. The story in of itself, was madness & scratched on the surface of religion which is something I don't wanna get into because I am more than pissed about that. This movie was a bit much & the dialogue was damn near horrible. Although I did like Javier Bardem, the chemistry was not there at all & them together was like nails on a chalkboard. The final act was disgusting & left me speechless, I know it was a movie & I get that. The mama in me though was shook & I was utterly repulsed. The movie as a whole was boring & as I've already stated pure undiluted madness.

Drive

⭐⭐⭐

Directed by:Nicolas Winding Refn

Written by: Hossein Amini (Screenplay)

Gross Revenue:$76.1 mil

So it took me 6 years to see it but it was worth the wait. Dialogue was scarce but that's not what this was about in my opinion. Ryan honestly didn't need to say much. His on screen intensity said enough all on its own. I really wish he'd do more films like this he's great at it. He loves to bounce between incredible roles like this and the leading heartthrob in a romance piece. He should really stick with this, he's far too intense for the romantic films at least to me. I love this movie

Baby Driver

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Directed by: Edgar Wright
Written by: Edgar Wright
Gross Revenue: $224 mil

      

        This movie is absolutely amazing! I love baby so much and the originality of the film is so refreshing in a world of reboots. I crave for something new, untouched & fresh. Baby driver is definitely a re-watch for me Edgar Write has done it again. As with all his movies this one will be a classic, he hasn't failed me yet. This was so well written and executed with finesse I no longer see too often & its just not fair.

        This movie reminded me of a time when  we would be in awe by the sheer brilliance of something we had never seen before. When the mainstream box office wasnt choking on big budgets and the next big CBM. When filmmakers weren't afraid to think outside the box and render their own ideas onsceen. Movies made in the good Ol' days of cinema pushed the bounds of our imagination and it was astonishing. If you want something beyond the usual flicks, well you've gotta dig through the indie world.  I shall reiterate it is not fair.

       Baby driver gave me something I missed. It gave me nostalgia almost for the old film industry and how they took risks and didn't care about common interest. This movie is not a movie for everyone  but they promoted it as such and it did pretty well. The soundtrack? Oh dont even get me started on how perfect that was. I had no issue with the casting Jon Hamm was an astounding antagonist. 

        My only quip was the dialogue between baby and Deborah it was a tad awkward. Other than that I completely and utterly fell in love with Baby driver. I couldn't ask for more.

The Fate of The Furious

⭐⭐⭐

Directed by: F. Grey Grey
Written by: Chris Morgan & Gary Scott
Gross Revenue: $1.24 Bil



        Now I know most rather forget this franchise and wish it would just go away.  For a film that has grossed over a BILLION dollars it cant be all bad. As for me? I love love love these movies although I was apprehensive to see this one. That is due to the fact that Paul Walker is no longer in it and I felt his absence would negatively impact the film. Though him not being there was felt in my opinion it really didn't endanger the film it is what it always has been fast and fun. So to get right down to it, there is something that I can always look forward to in 'Furious" n=movies and that's off the wall stunts and cheesy one liners. I love the fact that this franchise has stuck to the same formula, cars cars and more cars. They haven't lost the idea of why it was originally made, indeed no one really cares about street racing anymore but we all love pretty cars. 

        As usual I love the cast there is nothing I can say on that I mean Kurt tussle, Jason Statham, The Rock and Tyrese where my favorites. Even though The Rock did get the cheesy one liners they were funny and well executed.  The writing was a little messy but thats a furious movie for you. Although come on you can not say the phantom cars weren't bad ass! I think it was very well played as a furious movie it felt like one, which for me hadn't happened since 5. The closing scene? Talk about feels omg I was a puddle of tears. I'm a very emotionally connected viewer so I was a goner after he named his son.

The bad batch

⭐⭐⭐⭐


Directed by: Ana Lily Amirpour
Written by: Ana Lily Amirpour
Gross Revenue: $180,851



         Despite the epic failure this movie suffered at limited box office release it was an amazing film.  Its not really about what's being said, its not lazy writing in this case. Its more to do with body language and emotion that transfers on film. It is a visual gem that will be discussed in small circles with massive enthusiasm. I loved it, I loved the silent Jim Carrey, I loved the way Arlen took the child under her wing & I loved the fact that Giovanni was a dirty lunatic. I loved the fact Jason was a visual ascetic, he didn't need to say much his eyes and body said a lot......as it often talks to me in my dreams. I'd rather him not speak anyway honestly the accent? It was comic relief for me. I mean I love that man but he should never ever do that again. As messed up and two faced as it was the silent chemistry Miami man and arlen had was beautiful and the girly girl in me wanted to see a happily ever after ending. Although, I knew that would not have been the right approach. This was not a film made for everyone and that's okay it wasn't aimed at the masses hints the limited release.

Thor: Ragnarok...am I a little too excited?

             Can we just take a moment, in honor of National Comic Book Day, (yes it exists) to admire what is coming back with a vengeance? Personally, I have never been more excited for Thor in my life. Even with the first installment, I was like "oh okay cool" the second? "well, it wasn't the worst". Ragnarok though? Oh man every time I watch the trailer i get chills, the visuals? Off the charts amazing! I know some hate what they've seen so far, but I love it. It's so refreshing compared to the "haunted" hues Thor 1& 2 had. I don't mind the color splashes and bright cinematography, I rather enjoy the comic book feel it's true to form, it's a CBM so why not? Why not have the visuals resemble where the movie originated from?

        Loki, Loki, Loki, not sure what this says about me but I am just as anxious to see him as I am Thor & Hulk.  Cate Blanchette looks fabulous, i have always been fond of her & i cant wait to see how she does. Hemsworth, Hiddleston,  Cumberbatch & Elba? Lord help me when I am watching it not to drool too much. November 3rd cannot come quick enough. So, are you as excited as I am or are you gonna pass on this one?
     

Logan Lucky

     

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Directed by: Steven Soderberg
Written By: Rebecca Blunt
Gross Revenue: $40.4 mil


          I wasn't quite sure what I was going to get with this, when I first saw the trailer. Indeed, I wanted to see it , I mean Daniel Craig in a role other than James Bond? Don't get me wrong it's amazing whenever he plays bond but its even better when I see him do other things. I must say his performance was pretty great and his scenes are what I enjoyed most. Now, on to Channing Tatum whom I adore but can be like watching paint dry at times.

        I tend to steer clear of things involving him that don't end in Mike. However, I was pleasantly surprised he was alright it wasn't as horrible as I imagined he'd be. The movie was slightly reminiscent of the Oceans movies and I guess that's to be expected, with Soderberg at the helm. I really have no complaints on that, oceans 12 is in my top 20 favorite films of al time. The writing was amazing, for her first gig Rebecca Blunt didn't do too bad especially with the climax, amazing flow the entire time I loved it. The dialogue seemed a little scarce at times but Daniel Craig's scenes more than made up for it. I definitely love it

Wonder Woman

🌟🌟🌟

Directed by: Patty Jenkins
Written by: Allan Heinberg
Gross Revenue: $411 mil

          

          I went into this film with high expectations seeming as everyone said it was "mind blowing" and "phenomenal". Certified Fresh....as the trailer that played 100 times a day told me. A few minutes into the film I was all yay "superhero action" but then I was brutally reminded that it was DC superhero, not marvel. Thus making it boring boring, boring. Gal Gaddot?? Id rather watch paint dry then watch her for 2 hrs, its virtually the same thing.
      
        I am a marvel girl but I am also a gigantic movie lover. I give props when due, but that never seems to happen with these guys. Aside from "christian bale" batman which didn't even have a DC FEEL IN MY OPINION! I think that had to do  more with Christopher Nolan's genius perception. I have tried to give DC a shot, batman vs superman, man of steel and now this! Why on earth can't I get through an entire DC film without the urge to just walk out because I'm bored out of my mind??!! I give it 3 stars because it was entertainment but that's it still boring as ever! Step it up DC JL  is probably going to be just another bloated with dialogue snoozer as well.

The Room

⭐

Direcred by: Tommy Wiseau

Written by: Tommy Wiseau

Gross Revenue: $1;800

Sooo this really is the best worst movie ever made. Before I saw the disaster artist I wanted to gain some knowledge of who Tommy Wiseau was & what "The Room" was all about. If there was ever a role James Franco was meant to play it is definitely this one. So so bad its horrendously awesome. James Franco said  Wiseau was trying to make a Oscar worthy film & that is the truth you can see that throughout the movie.  gotta admire him for putting his all into it no matter how hilariously bad it was.

I can really see why everyone likes this movie, i do but it's not because it was good. Its because its so funny and you know that is not what it was meant to be and that makes it down right amazing. Following this man Tommy & his cheating girlfriend Lisa around a horribly made set just added to the comedy.

 

My opinion on MCU & DCCU its more than just Batman VS Spider-man

   

         Look at this how can you not fall in love? Now i know without DC there would virtually be no Marvel.  However, in the cinematic world marvel rules all. DC is for the most part in the baby steps stage when it comes to the cinematic universe.  Yes, they've had Superman, Batman, Watchmen, Blade, Suicide Squad but those were stand alones. Their name alone drew in the crowds not to mention how many times Superman & Batman have  been rebooted.  Even suicide squad I mean, that was a given with Joker and Harley involved everyone is gonna go see it. Wonder Woman is what Iron Man was to Marvel. A character virtually unknown to non comic readers. Granted Wonder Woman had a better opening but there is a 9 year difference between the two. Domestically shes done Great but terrible overseas. In the top 10 shes ranked number 7.

      As it stands marvel is indeed the better franchise, the avengers is not in the top 5 highest grossing films of all time for no reason. The movies that were released not BM or SM were folly compared to what marvel brings to the table and executes flawlessly.  Their latest endeavor with wonder woman was not a failure but a rough draft for what is to come. Marvel has already been there done that. with the latest Thor: Ragnarok hitting theaters in November I am sure it will win over Justice League. Not saying it wont pull audiences because that would be a very misinformed accusation. They will get droves of viewers in the seats domestically and abroad. However, when its all said and done I can almost guarantee Thor will win the battle of box office revenue.

      Besides Nolans Batman, Suicide Squad and Watchmen I've found DC to be rather bloated, boring & dark. Just because the characters are haunted doesn't mean the visuals have to showcase that. That's what i love about Marvel, the movies are done in a fashion that's fun, filled with jokes and bright visuals. The movies resemble actual comics and the nay sayers forbid a comic book film actually looking like a comic.  Which in my opinion is ridiculous. I am not sure when this whole Cinematic Universe battle will end but i can predict it will be a very sad day for most.

Life of Pi

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Directed by: Ang Lee
Written by: David Magee (screenplay)

      I...I just don't know where to start I mean this film?? Its off the scales spectacular. The main reason I suppose I'm just now seeing it is because when it came out, I kind of avoided best film nominated pictures like the plague. Why? I guess you could say I thought they were all talky, boring meaning less drivel. Between then and now I've seen countless nominated films and now I know how misguided I was. Though I don't believe all are Oscar worthy, this film was.
The color grading and the visuals left me in awe, wonder & pure longing for more of this. More creativity, more astonishing cinematography, more cinema that takes you on an escape to beyond. Ang Lee did some amazing work on this, and best director, best visuals, best cinematography was well deserved they earned it. Phenomenal job, really I cannot be more in love with this film.
However, I don't want to take away from the actual story which was magical and so well written. It has persuaded me to read the novel, I want to know this story in and out. As all book to films go, I'm sure they left some out and I'm excited to read what I couldn't see.

The Dark Tower

⭐⭐⭐

Directed by: Nikolaj Arcel
Written by: Akiva Goldsman & Jeff Pinkner
Gross Revenue: $110 mil
   

         I've never read a single Stephen King novel so I have nothing to compare it to. So if we are just talking from a movie perspective it wasn't horrible but it wasn't good either.. I feel the character development was a little weak and Idris definitely didn't give his best in my opinion and neither did Matthew. However, the story was intriguing and I really wanted to know more about the gunslinger history and what they went through with Walter. Word has it this was after the last book so the backstory wasn't needed for those who read them. For those who didn't, like me it left us wondering.