Well, everyone, we shall finally move into one of the first films to be released as of around the beginning of this year. It is a thriller that involves a roboticist, and her niece, and ends up having a fairly creative storyline. Starring Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, Amie Donald, the movie is called M3GAN.
Plot: After a young child named Cady (Violet McGraw) loses her parents to a car crash, she goes to live with her aunt Gemma (Allison Williams), who happens to be a roboticist. One day, Gemma makes a female robot doll named M3GAN (Model 3 Generative Android) to help Cady cope with the loss of her parents. Now, the question remains, will M3GAN prove more helpful, or helpful to Cady’s grieving process, and her socialization skills?
Okay, first off, after seeing the trailer for this film, part of me felt reluctant to see this film after having a not so great experience with movies like Black Phone, or even The Menu. But especially the former film. However, because this film was labeled a thriller, and not a horror film, I decided to go ahead, and give this film a shot. And now, for the review! Guys, I will admit that this film is definitely much more bearable than films like the other two films that I mentioned just a moment ago. I mean the first half of the movie is more pleasant to watch, and the relationship between Gemma, and her daughter, Cady, is definitely well handled. Oh, and with the way that Cady behaves sometimes, be it positively, or negatively, you have at least a little bit of an understanding of where she’s coming from. And yeah, how can you not like at least some of the action, and suspense that occurs in this film from time to time? Not to mention that the messages about learning to interact with REAL people being more important when it comes to developing good social skills being a very good message too.
However, in spite of some of these good elements being present in this film, M3GAN is definitely not that great. First of all, there are moments when Cady can be a little too bratty at times. Okay, I understand that difficult circumstances can cause people to lash out their negative emotions on others around them, especially nowadays. That being said, a good question to ask is this, “Is it okay to be a jerk, or a “b” to others just because you’re hurting, or something along those lines?” Quite frankly, I don’t think that’s the best course of action. But if some of you out there feel differently, then let’s have a FRIENDLY discussion about it. Anyway, the film also goes over the top with the violence, and gore, particularly in the second half of the film, and near the end. Well, even around some of the first half, it does that. As you’re watching those portions of the movie, it makes you wonder if some of those scenes were even necessary, you know?
And that’s my review for M3GAN. The film does have a fairly creative premise, and does incorporate some good lessons here and there, I’ll give the film that much credit. However, because of the second half , and some of the first half docking the film down with some of the unnecessary violence, Cady bribing a little over the top bratty at times, and things like that, this movie is not that great. In all honesty, I don’t think that I’ll be seeing future films like the upcoming Cocaine Bear, and films like those that are most likely in this same type of league. I would say save your money for future films like Ant-Man: Quantumania (if that one is any good), 80 For Brady, or something like those. Again, M3GAN was sort of well thought out, but could’ve been executed in a better way.
And now, for the final film of 2022, we are going to review the latest biopic that was based on a musical artist from sometime ago. This time, however, it is a musical artist that made history a little later than artists like Queen, and Elton John did. Presenting to you my review of a biopic by the name of I Wanna Dance With Somebody!
Plot: The film centers around musical artist Whitney Houston, and how she made history with her musical career.
Let me just start things off by saying that unlike other recent biopics that were released in more recent years, like Rocketman, or Bohemian Rhapsody, Elvis, or films like those, this film seems to feel more uplifting, and optimistic than those. Yes, the film does admit to Whitney Houston going through similar situations as the artists from those other films that I just mentioned. However, what makes this film stand out from those is that it seems as if Whitney’s life, though depressing at times, as shown throughout the film, seemed to be more hopeful, and uplifting. Okay, let me clarify. I get that each of these biopics has to try to remain as faithful to each person that represents their respective source materials. However, when you have films like Rocketman, or Elvis, or some of those that had a musical artist’s life go from good, or really good, to making choices that cause them to have these really sad, dark, and depressing lives, it gets rather annoying after a while, wouldn’t you say. Yes, you may have some of those CYCLES occur in this film. Still, the difference this time is that Whitney seemed to have shown how one can get back up, even if going through hard, and depressing cycles at times. Not to mention that the more lighter moments outweigh the dark, and abusive moments this time around. The characters are also really good, especially Whitney, her best friend, Robyn Crawford, her manager, Clive Davis, and all the others. One other thing to mention is the music. How could one not love the music, from “I Will Always Love You,” “How Will I Know,” the title song, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” and more. If there was anything to criticize, it’s nothing major, but just minor. That being that it probably would have been nice to see footage of say Whitney singing the song, “When You Believe” from The Prince Of Egypt, with Mariah Carey. But again, that’s more of a personal preference than a critique. I honestly felt that way with Rocketman, like why that film didn’t include some of his songs from say The Lion King, or even The Road To El Dorado, you know? Oh well!
And that’s my review for I Wanna Dance With Somebody. Though it has some rather depressing, and dark moments, it seems to feel more uplifting this time around, and has some heart to it. Did it need to be 2.5 hours? Probably not! Still, it was only fitting to have this film be released around Christmas time of this past year? If you want to see this biopic, and hope for something better than other biopics of this type, then all the more reason to see I Wanna Dance With Somebody. You’ll most likely have a really fun time with it, I’m sure.
And now, today, we are going to review a film that is NOT based on a true story, but more based on actual events that occurred in the 1920s, and with fictional characters. It was also directed by Damian Chazelle, whom some of you may remember for directing films like La La Land, and Whiplash, for instance. So now, let’s talk about the latest film that he directed, Babylon, starring Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie, Diego Calva, and more.
Plot: Set in Los Angeles, California, in 1926, a Mexican immigrant named Manny Torres (Diego Calva) brings an elephant to a party that occurs, meets Nellie LaRoy (Margot Robbie), and admits to her that he wants to become part of something bigger. Now, Manny, Nellie, Jack Conrad (Brad Pitt), and many others becoming part of the movie production industry in Hollywood, when Hollywood begins to make shifts in filmmaking. So now, the question remains, will Manny’s dream to become part of something bigger come to fruition in the end?
OH MY GOSH!!! What the heck did I watch this past weekend? I’m sorry, I realize that this film was rated R. However, I expected this film to be rated R because of certain violent scenes that would occur (as depicted from trailers that I at least saw in this film), and maybe a a few sex scenes here and there. But wow, after seeing this film, may I just say that I was in for a surprise, and not in a positive way, I’ll say. This is probably one of the worst, and possibly one of the most immoral films to come about. In fact, I heard that this film has been a flop, and bomb at the box-office thus far. First of all, there were quite a few sex scenes scattered throughout this movie. Okay, I understand that since the fall in the Garden If Eden (which, besides family members, and friends of mine that may normally read these posts, I hope quite a few others that read these posts do believe in Creation, and the Garden Of Eden), mankind has become corrupt even in the US. But come on, we’re people even in the US, and Hollywood this corrupt even in the 1920s, and 1930s, or did the filmmakers end up exaggerating history to a degree in this case? Somehow, because of the fact that God, and the Bible were taken out of public schools in the 1960s, if not earlier, I believe maybe the filmmakers might have exaggerated on the US, and Hollywood culture in this case. Please correct me if I’m wrong, however. Yes, the US has become more corrupt today than back then, but this livid takes place back then. So yeah! Anyway, including in some mfg the sex scenes were some people dancing naked at different parties, and things like that. In addition to these, the characters, besides maybe Manny Torres, weren’t all that likable. Even Margot Robbie’s character, Nellie, wow, what a psychopath she was either from the drugs, or even beforehand. I understand that the actress can nail this type of character perfectly, as proven with films like Suicide Squad. Still, for once, could Margot Robbie play a normal character, or something like that? Just a thought! As the for the movie, overall, let’s just say that, for the most part, it felt rather depressing than it should have been, especially around the middle to end.
Honestly, if there were any good things in this film, they would be that some of the action scenes, when characters are acting out action scenes from films, or acting period, were rather good. Additionally, the ending seemed to be rather decent as well.
And that’s my review for Babylon. Honestly, after seeing this one, I think I may research movies of this type more, to see if they’ll be rated PG-13, or R. The reason being is that films like Babylon seem to prove that movies that are rated R end up having more inappropriate content thrown in your face more than should be the case. Setting that aside, the characters aren’t ones that you can get behind, and the messages overall seem rather negative, and depressing. Personally, I’d rather sit down, and rewatch previous films that were directed by Damian Chazelle like La La Land, than sit through immoral garbage like Babylon ever again. Yes, La La Land was bittersweet at points. However, at least that one had decency, and a much more fun storyline to it. Not to mention some good original songs. That being said, DO NOT see Babylon, regardless of whether or not you have the option to see movies for free. You’d be better off going to a game night at a friend’s place, having dinner with family, or any other alternatives. In all honesty, I can see why this movie flopped. Hopefully, with that being the case, Hollywood will come out with more adult films that are somewhat more decent, you know? We shall see!
Well, ladies and gentlemen, as I mentioned in the first Puss In Boots review, I saw this sequel just a couple weeks ago, but wanted to wait until after I saw that film to review this sequel. That is even if I had to wait about a week, or two to do so. Well, now that I finally rewatched, and saw the first film, let’s discuss the sequel that was just released around Christmas time, shall we? Presenting my review of Puss In Boots 2: The Last Wish!
Plot: When it’s discovered that Puss In Boots (Antonio Banderas) has used up eight of his nine lives, he soon about a magical wishing star that can grant anyone any wish that he/she wants. So he, along with ex-flame Kitty Softpaws (Salma Hayek Pinault), and a new kind, and friendly therapy dog friend named Perrito (Harvey Guillen) attempt to travel there. With certain certain villains being on their trail, and wanting the wishing star for themselves, will Puss In Boots, and his friends be able to reach the wishing star first, or will trouble abound, and chaos ensue in the end?
Well, now that we have this unexpected sequel to the 2011 hit, Puss In Boots, was it worth making a sequel, or should the 2011 film been left alone in the end? Well, I’m delighted to let you all know that it was worth making this sequel in the end? First of all, this film fixes some flaws that were found in the first film, most notably with better pacing, better writing, and characters that were more likable, and basically 100% developed this time around. Oh, and it gets better. Puss In Boots: The Last Wish has increased in it’s animation aspect as well. Yes, the world, and characters are 3D looking like in the first film. However, there is a much more noticeable difference this time around. For those of you who saw the trailers for this film, you may already know what that is. Well, for those of you who haven’t surprisingly watched the trailers for the movie, let me tell you what that is. This time around, Puss In Boots: The Last Wish basically has this way of integrating 3D, and 2D animation, just like with DreamWorks previous animated film, The Bad Guys (which, oddly enough, was released eight months prior to this sequel, in April of last year). This especially is obvious when you have characters like Puss In Boots, Kitty Softpaws, or any other characters fighting other characters. Hard to believe!?! Well, see this film, and you’ll know what I mean. Even the designs of the characters, even in the midst of them each being computer-animated, have a touch of 2D animation on each of them, particularly, when it comes to their faces, and facial expressions. And yeah, of course, the backgrounds seem to have a touch of 2D animation as well. In addition to these aspects, Puss In Boots 2 also has excellent character development. Even though there are some that you live to hate, you still seem to sympathize where they’re coming from. What’s even more fascinating is that the movie has personification in terms of Death being personified as a character. I won’t give away how that’s handled. However, the way that aspect is handled is pure perfection. What’s more is that, even though the trailers make it look like certain antagonists are the main villains of the film, let’s just say that you’d be surprised by who ends up being the actual villain in the end. There are also some other rather creatively written characters as well. Next is the score. First of all, the film once again shows respect for the Latin American culture with the way people talk, dance moves, you name sit. Second, it’s also nice that this film had more original music this time around. The movie also deals with really heavy subjects like fear of death, and some other heavy themes. Oh, and something to keep in mind, there are some scenes that could be a little too dark, and scary for younger kids. This Puss In Boots film is probably more for teens, and adults because of that. Finally, this movie has excellent messages like learning to not fear death, standing up to giants in your life, learning to be content with the things that you do have in your life, and things like that.
And that’s my review for Puss In Boots: The Last Wish. Honestly, it was probably for the better that this sequel didn’t get released until over a decade later after the first film’s release. It has some of DreamWorks most memorable characters since those of Shrek, Chicken Run, Madagascar, and How To Train Your Dragon, for instance, a great score, along with more original songs, and some great messages to take away from this film. I would say that if you liked Shrek, and Puss In Boots, then make it a point to see this one, and IN THEATERS, if possible. If you’re worried that this sequel may not be good, then let me tell you to go see it, as you’ll undoubtedly be in for a big surprise. So yeah, go see Puss In Boots when possible, and you’ll be in for a treat, particularly for a more mature story, and the other elements that make this film great.
Alright, so, first of all, I must confess that I already saw the sequel to this film almost a week, and a half to couple weeks ago. However, because I didn’t rewatch the film until last night, I wanted to wait to review the second Puss In Boots film until I rewatched the first one, which took longer than expected. So yes, you all will soon get a review for the second film fairly soon as well. For now, let’s dive into the origins of the famous Puss In Boots character before he would become friends with Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, and the rest of the Shrek gang.
Plot: The movie tells the origins of Puss In Boots, before became a warrior. In this story, Puss In Boots (Antonio Banderas) becomes friends with Humpty Alexander Dumpty (Zach Galafianakis). After a failed mission destroys Puss, and Humpty’s friendship, and Puss In Boots becomes a fugitive, he ends up running away from his hometown, the fictional San Ricardo. Years later, Puss In Boots reunites with Humpty Dumpty, and becomes friends with a female warrior named Kitty Softpaws (Salma Hayek). When they discover magic beans that could make a beanstalk rise into the clouds, and where there is said to be golden goose eggs that could make them rich. Now the question remains, will Puss In Boots, Kitty Softpaws, and Humpty Dumpty be able to find the magic beans, as well as discover these golden goose eggs in the clouds, or will that end up being a myth even in this big fictional world?
Okay, first of all, one has to admit that the animation in Puss In Boots is spot on. I mean I’m sure we can all agree the animation in many of DreamWorks animated works has been amazing. Puss In Boots is no exception. However, in this case, the animation is really crisp with the background, and characters, really detailed with the fur, shoes, you name it, and things like that. Oh, and the detail of the San Ricardo town, the desert, the clouds, and even the castle structure in the clouds is superb, and amazing. Oh, and some of the humans can look somewhat realistic at times. Sure, some of them may look a little creepy at times, but the style of animation on the humans is very good overall. Same of course goes for the animals, and the egg like character, Humpty Alexander Dumpty. Additionally, the film nails the mannerisms for Puss In Boots perfectly. Now, as I’m sure many of us may know, Puss In Boots has been voiced by Antonio Banderas, who also played Zorro in the live-action Zorro films. That being said, it would seem that since Puss In Boots has obviously been modeled after Zorro. So, it’s safe to say that for doing such a task, they do an astounding job at doing just that. Oh, and the musical score is phenomenal. They do a great job with the score, but the movie even incorporates some hip-hop Latino music, and Latino music overall to help make a good representation of the Mexican-like culture that this film is going for. Granted, I’m not sure having some Mexican rap incorporated in here was the best idea this time around, at least seeing as this film seemed to try to go for a little more of a serious, and dramatic tone than any of the previous Shrek films that Puss In Boots starred in. Other than that, the score was great, and definitely got snubbed for the nomination. Heck, if you liked the score in say the 2000 DreamWorks film, The Road To El Dorado, you’d probably love the score here as well, maybe even more so. Henry Jackman was a genius without a doubt. As for the comedy, though more of a drama than a comedy, when the comedy lands, it lands just right whenever any comedic moments come up in this film. Also, what it lacks in comedy, it makes up for with some really amazing action, a really good, though not perfect, story, and a great amount of heart, and, again, great animation. Honestly, Puss In Boots is definitely one of those DreamWorks films that even adults could enjoy watching, and not feel feel like they’re watching a “kid’s” movie, or something like that. The film also does a fantastic job of having some aspects be left mysterious, and making the viewer be anxious for certain events to occur, certain characters to be shown, you name it. Because of all this being the case, you know for sure that you’re in for a good film, and a good origin story as well.
With all those said, are there any negatives in this film? Well, there are at least a couple. One being that some of the writing near the end felt a little rushed. The other was that the ending, though mostly satisfying, felt a little weird at the same time as well.
And that’s my review for 2011’s Puss In Boots. If you want to see the origins of Puss In Boots, as well as one that’s mostly done right, then definitely see this film. Especially if you like to hear Mexican/Latin American music, then you’ll most likely have an appreciation for this film even more. Definitely see Puss In Boots if you want a possibly more mature film, great animation, and things like that as well. You’ll have a great time with this movie, I’m sure.
And now, ladies, and gentlemen, we are going to be reviewing a more recent film that was directed by Steven Spielberg. It is a film that had characters that were likely based around Steven Spielberg’s life. Released in November 2022, let’s discuss The Fabelmans.
Plot: When Samuel (aka Sammy) Fabelman (Gabriel LaBelle), and his Jewish folks (Michelle Williams, and Paul Dano) go see The Greatest Shoe On Earth in 1952, Sammy gets so fascinated by an action scene in the film that inspires him to become a film director. As he, and his family move from places like Haddon Township, New Jersey yo areas like Phoenix, Arizona, and Saratoga, California, will Sammy continue to have a passion for filmmaking, or will he give up that dream, and pursue something else?
Well, first of all, this may not be quite one of Steven Spielberg’s best works. Still, he did a fairly good job for what he brought us in the end. First of all, it was great to see a fictional film that wasn’t based on a true story set in a different time period for the first time in quite a while. It was also cool to see a film with characters that were apparently based on the family, and friends that Steven Spielberg has had over the course of his life. The acting was also really good from Gabriel LaBelle to Michelle Williams, Paul Dano, Seth Rogen, and many more. Oh, and there is the music by John Williams. Okay, first of all, who would’ve guessed that he would be back to film scoring after supposedly being absent from creating film scores for a very long time? I’m sure that many of us remember John Williams for composing film scores in movies like the original Star Wars trilogy, the Star Wars prequels, Home Alone 1, and 2, and quite a few other films. So, how was his score this time around? Well, even though it was not quite as epic, or as groundbreaking as with quite a few other films that Williams scored in, he brings a different few to The Fabelmans. Basically, his music seems to be very quite, and peaceful this time around. Many times, it’s almost as if you might feel like you might be listening to a combination of pieces of classical music from composers like Mozart, or any of those other late classical music composers. You can really tell that John Williams changed his game when it came to him creating his film score this time around. Oh, and how could we not appreciate that throughout the course of this film, we may find ourselves interested in either putting films like The Greatest Show On Earth, and other older films on our docket list of films to watch in the future? Oh, and it was cool to learn that people can use certain objects, drawings, or anything like that to help them with the process of movie making. The movie also does a good job of relaying messages like to not give up on your dreams in spite of opposition that one may face through life, and things like that.
So, all of these things sounds great so far, yes? Still, I have to tell you all that I don’t think that The Fabelmans is one Steven Spielberg’s best works as far as films that he directed go. To begin, the film, while good, can be a little too depressing at times. I mean I understand that this film was based around events that occurred in Steven Spielberg’s life. So yeah, I’m sure that Spielberg’s life may not have been the best growing up. Still, even if none of the films that he directed in the past were exactly Christian (except for Prince Of Egypt, which he was involved in that project, but didn’t officially direct), those previous seemed to still feel a little more uplifting than this one. And yes, I understand that life is not always going to be happy, or happily ever after, or something like that. Still, couldn’t Steven Spielberg have made certain aspects of this film as if he were to have had a better life than he did in the end? Okay, maybe that’s easy for people like me to say, or ask. Either way, The Fabelmans was still very good for what it was. There were some aspects of this film that could have probably been rewritten, though. Additionally, there were some scenes that were a little too disturbing, and convoluted at times. Additionally, even if the Fabelmans were a fairly fun family to hang out with, they’re probably not a family that you may want to go back, and revisit as consistently as families from other films, live-action, or animated. Sammy even seemed to be a little too much of a coward at times, rather than being brave enough to do the right thing 100% of the time. Yes, you’ll likely understand his reasons. Still, one could say that he could be both a positive, and negative role model to other people at the same time. As for some of the other characters, while they were okay, none of them seem to be 100% likable. Not only that, but quite a few of them, especially outside of the Fabelman family, will more than likely be memorable in a more negative light, than a positive one. Rather tragic, wouldn’t you say?
Well folks, that concludes my review for The Fabelmans. It was undoubtedly cool for Steven Spielberg to make a film, and create characters that were based on real people that were involved in his life. Still, after anyone sees this film, I’m sure that many, if not all, of us, can agree, that Steven Spielberg has made better films in the past. Yes, the acting is good, the characters are fairly well developed, and, of course, John Williams made a very beautiful score that sounds like classical music at times. Still, it’s not as worth rewatching as much as quite a few other films, whether those were directed by Steven Spielberg, or not. Still, it is worth watching at least once, if not more. I would say either see this film for free if you’re an AMC, or even Regal Stubs member, or something like that. Otherwise, maybe wait until The Fabelmans is released On Demand, or even when it’s cheaper to rent this film on video, or something like that. It’s not a bad movie. It was just an okay one.
Alright, now, we are going to be reviewing a film that was set in the 1950s. Not only that, but it was also based on true events that occurred. So now, let’s discuss the one, and only, Devotion.
Plot: The movie takes place during the Korean War that took place in the 1950s. The film highlights events like Ensign Jesse Brown (Jonathan Majors) being the only African American member in his Navy Unit, his friendship with Lieutenant Tom Hudner (Glen Powell), the ugliness that occurred during the Korean War, and many other events as well.
Alright, now the question is, “How well done was this film?” Honestly, for a film that’s based on a true story, it is very well done. For one, you can tell that the filmmakers did their best to research what life was like back then, and of course learn more about the actual people that were portrayed in this film. I’m not sure how long that took, but, man, did the filmmakers work really pay off. I’m not familiar with all the history that was involved with the Korean War, or with much of the lives of the soldiers like Jesse Brown, or Tom Hudner, who were both involved in the war, along with many other soldiers. However, from what I, and anyone else, saw depicted in this film, it didn’t seem as if a whole lot seemed inaccurate. Yes, it’s possible that, like many other films that have been based on true stories, films do take some creative liberties here and there. Even so, Devotion does look like it tries it’s best to stay true to the source material of the true events that occurred during this time in history.
Additionally, Devotion is not afraid of showing the human side of any of the characters in this film, especially the main stars in this film. For instance, you have instances in this film where some of the characters make choices throughout the film that sometimes, let’s just say aren’t exactly the best. The characters are also likable, be it Ensign Jesse Brown, and Lieutenant Tom Hudner, To Jesse Brown’s wife, Daisy (Christina Jackson), and others. Even some of the commanding officers, though jerks at times can be complex, and likely even make you understand where they’re coming from.
Now, we come to one of the even bigger highlights of this film, the action. Wow, let me tell you, the action is phenomenal, whether it be shots of planes making practice rounds at sea, and flying back to base, planes launching missiles during war scenes, you name it, they are amazing to watch in this film. Films like Devotion, and Top Gun 2: Maverick (which, how interesting that both Top Gun 2: Maverick, and Devotion came out on a holiday weekend, Memorial Day weekend, and Thanksgiving weekend respectively) both serve as proof that even nowadays action films don’t necessarily need to have potential 3D graphics, or have a 3D version of the film for the action to be great. Honestly, since there were no 3D backgrounds in this film, it was probably for the best that there wasn’t a 3D version for this particular movie. Now, the special effects, of course that would be a must have, especially when we compare the special effects of films like this, and special effects from movies that were released around 40-50, maybe 60 years ago.
Finally, the storyline is really good. Devotion is proof that even if you don’t get all the details of a true story correct, if you remain as faithful to those events as possible, that’s all that counts. Devotion is one of those films that, even if bitter, and tragic at times, it also has moments of being uplifting, and encouraging to the audience as well. Yes, one will probably be surprised by how things turn out near the end. At the same time, however, when you get to the credits, you’ll be happy, and encouraged to know some very fun facts that are mentioned during the end credits if this movie. Also, how could I not mention that it was good for Devotion to be a little o we two hours rather than around 2.5-3 hours, or something like that? This film has a running time of of 2 hours, 38 minutes. And yes, that was time worth spent with this film.
And that’s my review for Devotion. It is a really good film with great action, having emotions of nearly every kind, memorable characters, good music, and anything else that one could think of. If you haven’t added this film in your list of movies to see around the Thanksgiving, or Christmas holiday, or shortly after, I would highly recommend that you do. This film is deserving of quite a few awards, from Best Special Effects , Best Leading Actor, Best Original Score, you name it. Go see Devotion ASAP, if you still have yet to. It is so big screen theater worthy.
Alright, everyone, today, we are going to be reviewing the latest follow up to the one, and only 2009 film, Avatar, that I’m sure many of us had long anticipated since that film’s release. Wow, it’s hard to believe that a sequel has finally come thirteen years later, you know? Anyway, let’s dive into Avatar’s sequel, Avatar: The Way Of The Water.
Plot: When a familiar threat returns to the planet of Pandora, it is up to Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), who is now leader of the Na’vi tribe on Pandora, his wife, Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), their children (James Flatters, Britain Dalton, Trinity Jo-Li Bliss, and Sigourney Weaver), and the rest of their tribe to save their forest, and the rest of the world of Pandora once, and for all.
Well, now that many of us have wait thirteen years for a sequel like this one, was Avatar: The Way Of The Water worth the wait? Well, for the most part, yes, it absolutely was for quite a few reasons that we shall discuss now. First of all, there are the visuals in this film. I saw this film in 3D last week. Let me tell you, as you watch this film, and the visuals, it is worth the 3D price. That is unless you have the AMC, or even Regal deal, where you can see a certain amount of films for free per week. Then seeing this film for 3D for free makes it worth your time even more. I mean from shots like with any of the characters flying, to any scenes that involve swimming fast underwater, it is so breathtaking how amazing the visuals, even more so when experienced in 3D. Even during the climax, when events become really, and intense, it’s interesting how well done the visuals are even then.
Now, how about the story? Well, to a degree, this sequel can feel somewhat similar to the first film. And no, that’s not bad in this case. In fact, I’m sure many of us can agree that it’s supposed to work that way. That is especially due to this movie going in a newer direction this time around. I mean with us not only getting to spend a little bit of time in the forest, but also getting to see more of the world of Pandora, especially seeing some sea creatures, getting introduced to a new tribe that lives by the ocean, and things like that, it makes the story even more interesting. Yes, it could still have a feel to films like Pocahontas, or Dances With Wolves, or movies like them. But, you know what, that’s probably for the best in this case. Oh, and did I forget to mention how people would be interested to see the amount of plot twists that surprisingly occur throughout this film? Okay, with any of these Avatar films, I will admit that I expected this film to be much more predictable than it was in the end. However, likely either in order to make this film more interesting, or some other reason, James Cameron, and his film crew end up creating more plot twists than one would expect, and end leaving the audience mostly likely more satisfied than expected. Don’t get me wrong, the end does leave things open for the third film (as I’m sure will be the case for the third, and fourth, and, well, however many Avatar films James Cameron plans on making. Still, people will probably most likely be glad with how certain events turn out as this film progresses. Yes, the story could potentially be a little slow in the beginning. However, it probably works to it’s advantage in this case simply because that’s probably more to develop the characters better, both the old, and newer ones. I was surprised, at first, to find that this film was going to have a running time of three hours, and ten minutes (190 minutes altogether). Still, even though that may be a little long, it was probably for the best that it ended up being that long just so that the story, characters, the world building, and more were better developed.
Next, there is some of the symbolism, and certain messages in this film. I mean the whole deal about the water having no beginning, and no end, sure, it could potentially have a little bit of a New Age deal to it. Still, on the other hand, it can also have hidden Christian themes in terms of how God, the Author of life, has no beginning, and no end. It’s just like how, in the first movie, the Tree Of Pandora, the Na’vi inhabitants had to depend on it for help, and being the source of their life overall. It’s interesting how both the first, and second Avatar films seem to have parallels to Christianity, you know? Finally, in this regard, there’s also the message about how one must be willing to do what’s right, and make the right choices, even when it could be costly sometimes, along with other ones like not letting anyone define you except, well, you yourself.
As for the music, instead of James Horner, like in the first film, we get a composer named Simon Franglen. Even though he may not have quite the same style as Horner did, he does help capture the spirit of the first film whenever possible. I mean with the some of the same instruments, and music overall, Franglen does in fact help take this film to a whole new level with the music that he go tributes to this film.
So, with all that said, are there any flaws to this film? Well, for one, there were some gaps in terms of questions that ended up remaining unanswered. Though that’s not entirely the case, some of these could leave the viewer a little too confused at points. Additionally, I’m not sure if the F-bomb was the best thing to have in a PG-13 rated film. Okay, even words like the “d” word, and the “h” word are inserted in more ma to re films like these. However, since when is the “f” word inserted in a PG-13 rated movie as well? Just a thought! Oh, and one other thing to note is that the film could have explained things like how the relations with the water people, and the forest people were, like if they were good, or bad, and things like that.
And that’s my review for Avatar: The Way Of The Water. Even if the first film might have been a little better, this sequel does still have quite a few things going on for it. I’m not sure why this film did leave some questions unanswered. Whether that was because the filmmakers wanted us to wait until the third film for those questions to be answered, or some other reason, you got me. Also, even if there were many things developed well in this film, there were other aspects that this film could have probably elaborated on even more. Still, at least the good outweighed the bad by a really big long shot in this case. If you haven’t seen Avatar: The Way Of The Water. I can guarantee that by the end, you’ll be glad that you did see this film, since it is that good. That being said, definitely try to make a point either this week, or next, to see it, and you’ll most likely have the time of your life while watching it.
Hi everyone, welcome back! Today, we are going to be back in time, over a decade ago, to a time when Fox & Blue Studios was still in business, and was coming out with either Ice Age sequels, or coming out with original films every three years, and then started going down to every 2-2 1/2 years after that. Today’s film was in the every three year time zone before Fox & Blue Sky Studios would be cranking out films a little more frequently. The company that made Ice Age (2002), Robots (2005), Horton Hears A Who (2008), and the film that we are reviewing today, Rio (2011). So let’s head to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, shall we?
Plot: When it is discovered that the blue Spix macaw species is on the verge of extinction, a Brazilian ornithologist named Dr. Tulio Monteiro (Rodrigo Santoro) travels to Moose Lake, Minnesota to ask Linda Gunderson (Leslie Mann), and her Spix Macaw parrot, Blu (Jesse Eisenberg), who doesn’t even know how to fly, to travel down to Rio with him in an attempt for Blu to hopefully mate with a female Spix macaw named Jewel (Anne Hathaway). Will Blu, and Jewel fall in love? Will Blu finally learn how to fly? Additionally, can Blu, and Jewel, along with some new wisecracking bird friends like a toucan named Raphael (George Lopez), a red-created cardinal named Pedro (will.i.am), and a yellow canary named Nico (Jaime Foxx) keep themselves from becoming captive, and being sold on the black market by a trio of smugglers (Carlos Ponce, Davi Vieira, and Jeffrey Garcia) that want to sell the two Spix Macaws, and a bunch of other exotic birds in Rio for their own profit?
Now, as many of us know, Fox & Blue Sky Studios is no longer making animated films, likely thanks to Disney buying out 20th Century Fox a few years ago (darn you, Disney!). Still, of the films that the company made for around twenty years, is Rio one of those animated films from the studio that holds up around a decade later? As a matter of fact, yes it is. I mean, for one, the animation is gorgeous to see. I don’t know how many people saw this film in 3D when this film was in theaters, or just saw it in the regular format then. However, I will say that whoever did see Rio in 3D must have been really lucky, and possibly even glad that they did. Again, I didn’t see Rio in 3D when it was in theaters. However, I will say that I wouldn’t have been surprised if some of those shots were amazing in 3D, like when Blu, and Jewel are hanging on a glider, the birds in the rainforest end up singing, you name it. I heard a lot of people say that when Fox & Blue Sky Studios first got off the ground, the animation in their films wasn’t all that great. Yeah, with films like Ice Age, and, to a degree, maybe even Robots, the animation might not have been the best, but it still seemed to get better every time. Well, Rio certainly served as proof that even Fox & Blue Sky Studios is capable of making the animation in their films as good, if not better, than that of big animation companies like Disney, and DreamWorks, for instance. Hard to believe!?! Well, all the more reason to see this film, and you’ll know what I mean. Oh, and before moving on, who wouldn’t enjoy seeing the view of Rio de Janeiro, or even the statue of Jesus while watching this film? Just a thought! Next, there is the music, and songs. First off, John Powell, he is such a great composer. I was stunned to discover that Powell’s works included composing for animated films like Kung Fu Panda 1, Shrek, and How To Train Your Dragon (which, oddly enough, was released just the year before this film). He has been a musical genius in anything he’s composed for. Rio is no exception. Something to take note of in the films that he’s composed in is that he understands what kind of music plays, and how the music in that culture works. This is proven in films like the 2010 DreamWorks film, How To Train Your Dragon, with the Scottish/Viking music that played during that film. Well, with Rio, he helps to capture what Brazilian culture is like, and the kind of music that plays there. Oh, and did I forget to mention that as far as the songs go, the songs are mostly original? Yeah, I like films like Ice Age, or Robots, which had songs that many of us had heard before, or Horton Hears A Who, which had maybe one original song near the end of that film, Rio has multiple original songs this time around. Okay, yes, Rio did at least have the Lionel Richie song, “Say You, Say Me” featured at one, or two points briefly. However, that’s it. I’m not sure if the filmmakers put in the amount of original songs that they did in order to develop competition with companies like Disney, which, for the most part, had gone back to making musical type films at this point, or for some other reason. Either way, you can tell that with the songs, and other elements, they were really trying to go all out with this film. Next, there are the characters. Wow, let me just tell that not only are nearly all of them memorable, but some of them, especially the animal characters, end up being metaphorical for personalities of human characters as well. This seems true specifically for the main parrot character, Blu. Honestly, any person who has been an introvert, or has just struggled with the idea of stepping outside his/her comfort zone will especially relate to this character. Trust me, you’d be surprised to discover how so as you watch this film. Anyway, although the trio of bird smugglers will probably be the least memorable of all the other characters in this film, the rest of the characters stand out, and have mostly good character arcs. Blu, and Jewel’s relationship is also well developed, and cute. Sure, their relationship might have felt a little similar to someone like Naveen, and Tiana’s relationship from Disney’s The Princess & The Frog, and Raphael might basically be similar to Louis the alligator from that film, and Luis the bulldog, Pedro the red cardinal, and Nico the yellow canary being Ray the firefly from that film as well. However, unlike The Princess & The Frog, Rio has no magical elements, and ends up acting like a more realistic film. That is aside from the animals talking, of course. But, you know, this is an animated film. So, of course, most animated films have been known to have main animal characters talk, with rare exceptions like DreamWorks Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron, for instance. Oh, and this film is really, really funny, and hysterical. This film really balances it’s dark, and tragic moments with the hilarious ones. In fact, the hilarious times in this film outweigh any of the few sad moments that may occur in this film. Finally, as far as the pros go, Rio can provide good lessons about how we must be willing to step outside of our comfort zones, be willing to accomplish impossible tasks, and to think of others more than ourselves.
Are there any downsides to Rio? Well, there is one thing that keeps the film getting an A+. That being that even if Blu has a fairly good character arc, especially near the end, his arc could have maybe been handled better. It wasn’t bad by any means. It just could have been handled a little better than it was, but not by much. As for Jewel, she could have maybe had a better reason to hate, and mistrust humans besides the fact that she got captured, and imprisoned by them. Thankfully, we seem to have a better understanding of where she comes from once Rio 2 came out three years later. But more on that when I rewatch, and review that film sometime down the road. Oh, and another thing! Nigel the cockatoo’s villain song, “Pretty Bird,” was a decent villain song. Again, not bad, but could have maybe been a little better.
And that’s my review for 2011’s Rio. Honestly, as good as this film, I just wonder why the film didn’t at least get nominated for Best Animated Feature, while other films from that year like Rango, and Kung Fu Panda 2 did, you know? Okay, they were good films too. Still, Rio probably deserved to get nominated, and maybe even win more so than Rango at least did. Oh well! Regardless. If you want to see an animated film that really goes out, and beyond, especially by Fox & Blue Sky Studios standards, then all the more reason to see this film. The music is mostly good, the characters are memorable, and relatable, humans, and animals alike, it is incredibly funny at times, and the animation is amazing. You can easily tell that the filmmakers really stepped up their game in nearly area from their previous films. For reasons such as these, if you haven’t seen Rio yet, then definitely make a point to watch it on a streaming service, rent a DVD copy of it, or something like that. You won’t be disappointed. In fact, you’ll probably be blown away by how fun this film is.
Well, everyone, hope you all are ready, or close to ready, for the Christmas season, with it being close to that holiday. Well, today, we are going to be reviewing a Christmas-themed film that will be reading it’s 30th anniversary come November 2024, but turned at least 28 years old as of November 11th of this year. Not only that, but it stars well-known actor Tim Allen, and spawned not only a couple sequels, but a series on Disney+ as of recently. It is the one, and only, The Santa Clause, from 1994. So let’s go sleigh riding with Scott Calvin/Santa Clause, his son, Charlie, and the gang, shall we?
Plot: When an incident causes Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) to become Santa Clause, his son Charlie (Eric Lloyd) becomes thrilled to do stuff like go to the North Pole with him, and things like that. However, due to Scott’s ex-wife, Laura Miller (Wendy Crewson), and her new husband Neil Miller (Judge Reinhold) being skeptical of the idea of the existence of Santa Clause, will this cause a rift between Scott, Charlie, and Charlie’s mom, and stepdad, or will Charlie’s mom, and stepdad come to the realization of the existence of Santa Clause? Also, will Scott Calvin remain Santa Clause to the end?
Now, after being absent from this Christmas classic , from Disney, does it hold up? Well, for the most part, absolutely! Granted, The Santa may have one, or two weaknesses. But more on those a little later. For now, what does make The Santa Clause a fun film to watch especially around Thanksgiving, or Christmas time? Well, for one, there’s the star of this film, Tim Allen. I mean how can you go wrong with putting him in a film especially like this one? First off, the fact that Tim Allen is a Christian, yeah, we need more of them with the negative direction that Hollywood has been going in recent years. Second, Tim Allen has done phenomenal in nearly everything he’s done, from shows like Home Improvement, and Last Man Standing, to films like Jungle 2 Jungle, and Wild Hogs, for example. The Santa Clause is no exception. The film is also creative with how they make Santa go down chimneys by having certain places that don’t have fireplaces turn into fireplaces for a few moments. Honestly, when I was a kid, and believed in the existence of Santa in real life, I actually believed that even any home that didn’t have a fireplace would actually turn into a one temporarily when Santa needed to deliver presents. It wasn’t until I was around teenager, or maybe even pre-teenager, that I realized that that was just a fake thing that they put in a film like this one. Wow, the crazy things that some of us believe as kids. First, I believed that, and believed in the existence of Looney Tunes, and other cartoon characters living underground? Darn, I still can’t believe that I originally believed either to be the case, when they weren’t, you know? Happens! Anyway, how was the rest of the cast? Well, they were great too, from Wendy Crewson as Scott’s ex-wife, and Charlie’s mom, Laura Miller, to Judge Reinhold as Laura Miller’s newer husband, Dr. Neil Miller, and, oh yes, David Krumholtz as the Head Elf of the North Pole, Bernard. Man, let me tell you, while all the elves are really fun, Bernard is the one that stands out of them all because, well, for one, he’s of course Santa’s second-in-command. The other reason he stands out is that he knows how to treat kids really well. I mean this guy is probably in his teen, or adult years, and he knows how to treat others well, especially children. I mean the fact that he doesn’t pick on him, but does nice things like call him sport, or things like that, that’s really cool. I would say that especially more teenagers should have, or should take notes from this character so that they don’t get caught up in acting cool, or stuck up in their own ways, you know? So yeah, Bernard serves as a great example of humbleness, and treating others as equals. The other characters are also great, and seem to surprisingly be well thought out. It’s great how memorable most of them are. Not to mention that you get a good understanding of where they’re coming from, whether those characters are in the right, or in the wrong. In addition to all of this, The Santa Clause could serve as a potential fable for real life in terms of there being those people who choose to believe in, and follow God, and those who don’t. As a result, people, especially Christians, could most likely draw parallels between the movie The Santa Clause, and real life. Additionally, even if this film does have fantasy elements in it, there still ends up being a really good sense of realism as well. Truthfully, this is one of those films, that takes place in modern times (especially the 1990s back then), and does well with balancing the fantasy elements, and the realistic ones very well. Another thing to mention is that the film ends up doing well with being parallel to life, despite the fantasy elements that occur. Oh and finally, you’d like the arcs that some of the characters go through in the process.
But are there any negative aspects of this movie? Well, for one, there were one, or two times where the humor seemed to be a little crude at times. And another thing! Charlie seemed to act a little too impulsive with his choices from time to time. Yes, I understand that he’s only a child. Still, when he’s asked not to do certain things, and he sometimes goes against those rules, not the best idea. Maybe we might be missing something, but still.
And that’s my review for The Santa Clause. If you want a really great comedy, with a mostly well-written story, fun characters that are memorable, and some good morals, and messages, along with good parallels to real life, then all the more reason to see The Santa Clause. Also, again, how could you go wrong with Tim Allen? Well, definitely see The Santa Clause if you’ve never seen it, or have yet to rewatch it after being absent from the film for years.
Matthew’s Animated & Live-Action Movie Reviews 