Movie Review # 519: The Bad Guys (2022)

Good evening everyone! Today, we are going to be reviewing another movie. This time, we will be going into the latest animated feature from DreamWorks Animation. Not to mention that it is the first original film, instead of a sequel, since 2019’s Abominable. Released on Friday, April 22nd, 2022, the latest DreamWorks animated film is the one, and only The Bad Guys, based on a children’s book series by Australian author, Aaron Blabey.

Plot: When five well known criminals, known as the infamous Bad Guys, and consist of animals, Mr. Wolf (Sam Rockwell), Mr. Snake (Marc Marin), Ms. Tarantula (Awkwafina), Mr. Shark (Craig Robinson), and Mr. Piranha (Anthony Ramos) attempt a heist that goes awry, they’re nearly taken to prison before being asked to first perform community service by a red fox named Governor Diane Foxington (Zazie Beetz), and a Guinea pig named Professor Marmalade IV (Richard Ayoade). Will the criminals now choose to eventually return their lifestyle of criminal activity, or will they actually have a change of heart by the end?

Let’s start things off by talking about the animation of this film. Well, most of the animation is good. First of all, the animation techniques that they used for this computer animated DreamWorks film was rather unique this time around. To begin, you have the characters look both computer animated, and hand-drawn at the same time. This is especially the case when it comes to the designs of the animal characters. Now, yes, we have had 2D animation incorporated in past computer animated films like the Kung Fu Panda movies, for instance. However, the 2D sequences, and mostly 3D ones were basically separated from each other. Not the case with The Bad Guys. This time around. While the designs on characters, and most of the backgrounds are still computer animated, it’s almost like the characters look both 2D, and 3D animated at the same time. This surprisingly goes not just for the characters, but also for moments like when you have fighting sequences, dust, or smoke, rising from the ground at certain points, and things like that. Honestly, if DreamWorks were to at least give another shot at full-on 2D animation because of that, who wouldn’t want to see that welcomed back, you know? The only thing about this film that is more of a nitpick than anything is that the designs of the humans seemed to feel more like something from a TV show, or something like that. The designs on the humans weren’t bad. Still, the animation on the humans could have at least been better. Now that we have that out of the way, how about the story? Well, though the story may not quite be something phenomenal, or special, it is very unique, and different from your typical animated film, be it Disney, or DreamWorks, you name it. For starters, yes, kids will definitely enjoy this film for there being animals, and the creative storyline. At the same time, however, teens adults will enjoy it not only for those possible factors, but more so for this film basically having adult material like The Fast & The Furious, Pulp Fiction, Speed, and movies like those. Because of that, a guy, and girl could more than likely go see The Bad Guys for a date, without possibly thinking it weird to see an animated film on a romantic date. Yes, animated films in recent years have seemed to have more mature storylines. Still, with all the adult references in this particular film, it seems to help make this film mature even more. Not to mention the really interesting plot twists that are in this film. There were times when I found myself predicting that certain things would happen, only to find out that they turned out differently. Yeah, depending on what kinds of plot twists one prefers, those definitely help make a film more enjoyable. The Bad Guys is no exception. And of course, how could I not mention the s characters, especially the Bad Guy crew? They’re all very well written. However, it’s really Mr. Wolf, and Mr. Snake that seem to be the bigger standouts of the five. Diane Foxington, and the rest of the cast of characters are really good too. Oh, and another thing! How could I not finally mention, as far as positives for this film go, how incredibly funny this film is at times? I mean in addition to references to older more adult films, if you liked 2008’s Get Smart specifically for it’s excellent mixture of action, and comedy, you’ll most definitely feel the same way about The Bad Guys in that aspect.

However, there are at least a couple flaws to this film. First of all, the villain, without hopefully giving anything away, didn’t seem to be all the memorable, and seemed to act more like your typical villain plot twist type. Also, as for the ending, let’s just say that, even if it’s a good ending, you might find yourself feeling a little ambivalent about it. Finally, the film could potentially send mixed messages at least to kids, if not teens as well.

And that’s my review for The Bad Guys. Well, despite the film’s flaws, there’s no doubt that it turned out to be somewhat revolutionary, especially with the animation, and maybe even it’s storyline to a degree as well. The characters are fun, and the film, as a whole, is one that people of all ages will really enjoy. Definitely go see it if you can, and see what you think!

Final Grade: B+

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Movie Review # 518: Warcraft (2016)

Well everyone, today, we are going to be reviewing a film that I surprisingly never saw back in 2016, but should have probably seen whether I would have liked it, or not. It is a film that is based on a video game. Released in the summer of 2016, the movie is Warcraft.

Plot: When a demonic magic called Fel magic, humans, and orca from another world must stop this magic from getting out of hand. Can humans, orca, and other races unite together to stop this evil magic from spreading further if possible?

Okay, the setup of this film is really clever. I had plans to watch this film with a friend of mine last night. Before seeing it, I honestly did not find myself going in with high expectations. Still, after watching it, while not not quite one of the best video game adaptations out there, it is still very fun. First of all, Warcraft is one of those films that, even if you haven’t played the Warcraft video games, you find yourself somewhat immersed, and engaged in this story. Seeing as that did not seem to be the case as much with say something like the Assassin’s Creed film (which was released at the end of 2016), that is likely saying something. Yes, this film had problems too, but one could still be more positive to it nonetheless. Anyway, the characters are also very well thought out, even villains like the orcs. Oh, and that’s another thing. The storyline seems to feel rather similar to say the Lord Of The Rings trilogy. I mean you have these towns, and cities that are very identical, or similar to the ones that were set up in the Lord Of The Rings movies, and/or books. Not to mention that the orca in this Warcraft seem to be more fleshed out this time around. Sadly, the humans, and orca end up still being bitter enemies. But hey, at least we get to know the orc species more, you know? The world building was also very good, with there being humans, and orcs, along with dwarves, elves, and other creatures too. As I’m writing this review, you may be thinking that this film is basically ripping off Lord Of The Rings, right? Well, I assure you all, that is not the case. This film still has it’s own story. Finally, as far as positives go, Warcraft has really cool epic moments, along with some interesting twists.

Still, there were some areas where the Warcraft film could have likely improved. First of all, some of the characters could have been developed a little better. Also, certain events near the end seem to feel unresolved somewhat. Additionally, there were certain aspects of this world building that didn’t seem to be thoroughly explained, most notably in regards to how the whole Fel magic worked, and things like that. Finally, the CGI with some of the backgrounds, and some of the non-human characters, might look it could be potentially dated a few years from now, or even more.

And that’s my review for Warcraft. Though not quite one of the best video game adaptations out there, you might find yourself enjoying whether or not you have played the Warcraft video games. Yes, it’s possible that one might enjoy this film more if going through the Warcraft video games in the process. Regardless, definitely give this film a watch if you either like video games, or if you like stories that are of the fantasy genre.

Final Grade: B

Movie Review # 517: Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets Of Dumbledore (2022)

Hi everyone! Hope you all are well! Anyway, today, we are going to be diving into the world of fantasy. In fact, it is the third installment of a prequel film series that takes place before the events of the Harry Potter book, and movie series. And wow, it’s been three and a half to four years since the last film installment, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Grindelwald, was released. So now that the third film is here, let’s finally review it.

Plot: When the villainous Gellert Grindelwald (now played by Mads Mikkelsen, filling in the role for Johnny Depp, after circumstances caused that to happen a few years ago), and his followers attempt to undermine the Ministry Of Magic in an attempt for world domination, can Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne), Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law), and some new creatures help expose Grindelwald’s plot before it’s too late?

For those of you who at least saw me review films at least on Facebook, you may recall that, when I saw, and and reviewed the first two Fantastic Beasts films at their respective release times, I gave the films a B+, and C+ respectively. The reason for the C+ on the second film was that, the writing wasn’t as great, and it seemed to have more flaws than the first film seemed to. Now that we have arrived with the third film, Fantastic Beasts: The Secret Of Dumbledore, the question you’re all wondering is, “did it improve from the second film, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Gdindelwald?” To a degree, yes. This one also has it’s flaws, but a good improvement nonetheless. First of all, the world building with our heroes, and villains getting to be in different countries throughout this film was really cool. The newer creatures that we’re introduced to are fantastic. That is most notably with some dragon-like creatures that have some really amazing abilities. The movie is also really funny at points too. I mean with how the comedy is brought into this picture, it is so creative, and clever. Wow, and there is the score by James Newton Howard. Okay, how is that he doesn’t seem to be considered as someone like Hans Zimmer, or someone like him? The score in this film proves why James Newton Howard should be talked about more, and why he seems rather underrated as a score composer because of that. Oh, and the cinematography is is phenomenal as well, be it when there is grass, icy, and snowy mountains, or even mythical castles. Additionally, some of the characters seem to be a little better developed than at least in the second film. Oh, and how could you not like some of the cool plot twists in this film?

Still, while some of the plot twists were cool, there were other plot points that didn’t seem to make sense all that much. Also, Mikkelsen does not seem to do the character of Grindelwald justice as much as Johnny Depp. Okay, I understand the reasons for Depp not playing this character this time around, but still. I would say that Mikkelsen could do a little better with putting more charisma into this character, should be plan on playing this character for the rest of this film series. Finally, though there are some characters that were fairly well fleshed out, there were some others that could have maybe been given their due a little more.

And that’s my review for Fantastic Beasts: The Secret Of Dumbledore. Though not perfect, this film proved that there is still hope for this film series to progress for the better, should the franchise continue to be successful. Most definitely see it if you want some really good CGI, good cinematography, mostly good acting, and some other good qualities. Yes, this third film had flaws, but at least it improved from the last film by somewhat of a long stretch. Well, here’s hoping that the Fantastic Beasts film series continues a trajectory in the right direction from here on out.

Final Grade: B+

Movie Review # 516: Show Me The Father (2021)

Ladies and gentlemen, today, we are going to be reviewing a Christian documentary that was released back in the fall of this past year, but surprisingly never got to see in theaters. Weird, considering that I’m a movie buff, eh? Nevertheless, let’s dive into a Christian documentary by the name of Show Me The Father.

Plot: The documentary delves into the lives of different people, be it teachers, coaches, and other citizens, some of whom had good experiences with earthly fathers, and others that had bad experiences with their earthly fathers. The film also talks about how each of these people learned that no matter what the type of experience that they had, they each came to learn about the unconditional love from our Heavenly Father.

Wow, what an excellent film this is! First of all, it was great to watch this film, and witness how different people felt about their earthly fathers, good, or bad. It was also interesting to see the Kendrick brothers (who, as some of us may know, made films like Facing The Giants, Fireproof, Courageous, War Room, and films like those) be included in this documentary. Quite honestly it is especially interesting to hear about how Stephen, and Alex Kendrick (aka the Kendrick Bros.) came to make the Christian-based films that I just mentioned, and some more a moment ago. Additionally, it is amazing to hear testimonies from other people that speak in this film about how they came to Christ, and, in the process, knew of a better love of the Father. Oh, and how can we not mention the difficulties that can potentially occur when an earthly father is absent from a person’s life? I will not give too ouch else away, as we can just say that you’ll be amazed by the conversations that take place in Show Me The Father.

And that’s my review for Show Me The Father. It is truly a great film that not only will help us to learn stories of other people, and see things from their perspective, but also to hopefully realize how much we are loved by God. The people in this documentary are great, and go into great detail about their lives, and how their lives have been impacted by having a good, or even bad earthly father. If you haven’t seen Show Me The Father yet, definitely do so. Hopefully, this film will become much more popular in the near future.

Final Grade: A+

Movie Review # 515: The Ultimate Gift (2007)

Ladies and gentlemen, today, we are going to be diving into what may be a Christian-themed film that was released over a decade ago. It involves some very memorable themes, and things like that. Released in March 2007, the movie is The Ultimate Gift.

Plot: When a spoiled rich man named Jason Stevens (Drew Fuller) is tasked by his late father Red Stevens (James Garner) with certain assignments that could lead to the “ultimate gift,” Jason begrudgingly takes on the challenge. But through meeting a single mother named (Alexia Drummond), and her daughter, Emily Rose (Abigail Breslin), along with other new friends, will Jason be the same as before, or will this journey lead him to a better life?

Wow, what an excellent film. First of all, the picture quality is fantastic. Considering this was around the time that the Kendrick were in the early stages of releasing films, and their picture quality was not quite their best yet, that is most definitely saying something. Oh, and holy cow, the characters are really, really spot on in terms of character development. First of all, the black lawyer character cracks some hilarious moments at points. Also, Jason Stevens, and his storyline, is very well done despite maybe sounding a little familiar at points. As for the other characters, how could you not like them as well? Additionally, The Ultimate Gift is great at teaching valuable lessons, such as how going through difficult trials in life can help one either be bitter, or become better, and more stronger than before. In addition to these, the movie does well with showing how some people that claim to be friends can either be fake friends, or true friends. As you watch this film definitely pay close attention to how the whole true, or not so true friend situation is well handled. Oh, and another thing! How could one not like how much some of the arrogant characters have to learn in their lives? The Ultimate Gift will finally probably help people think more critically about certain aspects of life.

And that’s my review for The Ultimate Gift. Goes without saying that this film is worth seeing, and most likely underrated. The characters are well written, and sometimes funny, the storyline is amazing, and the lessons that one can take away from this film are incredible. If you haven’t made a point to see The Ultimate Gift, most definitely see it! A great many people will most likely relate to this film in one form, or another. Yes, it is sad at points, but also an overall very uplifting film at the same time.

Final Grade: A+

P.S. Happy 15th anniversary to The Ultimate Gift!

Movie Review # 514: The Northman (2022)

Ladies & gentlemen, today, we are going to be going into some Viking mythology. It involves a Viking tribe, and stars Alexander Skarsgard, Nicole Kidman, Anya Taylor-Joy, and other cast members. So now, let’s discuss the one, and only, The Northman.

Plot: Prince Amleth (Alexander Skarsgard) sets out on a mission to avenge the death of his father, former King Aurvandill (Ethan Hawke), and rescue his mother (Nicole Kidman), and his tribe from the tyrannical rule of his evil uncle Fjolnir (Claes Bang). With the help of some former slaves, including love interest Olga Of The Birch Forest (Anya Taylor-Joy), can he succeed in his mission?

Well, to start things off, the setup is well done. You have some good characters who have family, or friends that betray them, as well as some interesting twists mixed in. Sounds like a Lion King, or Hamlet type of story, yes? Well, it basically seems to be, but with some convoluted stuff going on as well. And right off the bat, I will just come out, and say there is the phenomenal score by Robin Carolan, and Sebastian Gainsborough. Man, do they do really good with mixing in folklore music, and weaving it into the story in a way that basically makes the story feel all the more engaging, and as strong as it can be. The visuals are also really beautiful, particularly when the afterlife that’s part of this mythological story is briefly shown. There’s also a surprisingly good love story that maybe could have been a little better, but was very good for what it was. The acting was also really great, especially in the beginning, when the film had a few more characters shown. Of course the acting was great even after the beginning as well. As for Prince Amleth’s actions, you can understand where he’s coming from, even if you may not always agree with some of the decisions that he makes throughout the course of this film.

Still, The Northman isn’t without it’s flaws. First of all, there is way too much vulgar nudity at points in this film. I mean even in the climax, you’ll likely find yourself thinking, “Really?” Okay, yes, I understand that this is rated R. Still, is this a trend that Hollywood is going to continue on with at least their R-rated films? I mean come on! Also some of the character development could have been tweaked out at certain points too. Additionally, the film is most likely way too depressing at times. Truthfully, I’m not sure that one will want to watch this film quite nearly as much after seeing it even the first time around, you know? And overall, the film doesn’t seem to feel quite as uplifting. Finally, you’ll most likely leave the theater wondering if any of our characters learned any valuable lessons.

And that’s my review for The Northman. it is an okay film that has great acting, a mostly good setup that could have probably been better, a great score, and some other things too, along with quite a few flaws. Definitely see it at least once, and see what you think!

Final Grade: C+

Movie Review # 513: God Loves Uganda (2013)

Well guys, today, we are going to be stepping into some rather unfamiliar territory, as we will be reviewing a documentary film today. I’m not sure how many of you out there have heard of a movie director by the name of Roger Ross Williams. Well, he directed another film that came out a few years after this film that I have been eager to see for quite some time (which I also plan to watch in the near future). Anyway, loft now, let’s talk about the Roger Ross Williams directed film, God Loves Uganda.

Plot: The movie first takes place in Kansas City, Missouri, and revolves around a church that’s located there by the name of International House Of Prayer (or IHOP). Yeah, apparently, if one lives there, be careful about saying IHOP, since IHOP is also an acronym for the restaurant International House Of Pancakes. Confusing, yes? Anyway, the movie talks about how some of the people in that church have been bringing politics in their faith, and doing cruel things to the people of Uganda that attempted to live a life of homosexuality. The film documents topics lie. This, and includes people like the pastor of IHOP, and a Ugandan LGTBQ activist.

Wow, okay, first of all, while I watched this movie this past weekend, I was shocked to discover that IHOP is an acronym for two different things, a church, and a restaurant. So does IHOP stand for other things that either I, or other people don’t know of yet? Well, you got me! Anyway, this movie does a good job of showing how flawed people can be even in their way of thinking when it comes to trying to be the church to others. I mean you have people who are offended by what others say when they don’t like hearing something that they should hear. Also, mixing things like Christianity, and politics together, God Loves Uganda shows just how dangerous of a line that can be. I mean we, as Christians do have certain beliefs based on what God’s Word says, be it things about homosexuality, bitterness, anger, you name it. However, this movie does a great job of showing how some people that are supposed to be part of the church, whether that be leaders, or people that attend church, can have a tendency to be judgmental of others at times, and can rub off of people the wrong way. Yes, this movie does show the true, loving kind of Christians as well. Honestly, that’s what makes this film really good, is that it shows the loving Christians that are non-judgmental, as well as showing the people that call themselves Christians, while also acting judgmental towards other people that don’t think the same way as them. Honestly, the only thing that could have made this movie a little better would have probably been if the movie had been a little longer, and the characters a little better known.

And that’s my review for God Loves Uganda. Yeah, it goes without saying that this film does a great job of showing how difficult Christians can be, and how we, as Christians, need to be careful when it comes to how we treat others. And yes, the movie does a good job of showing both the church culture, especially at IHOP (International House Of Prayer), and the African culture. I would say definitely give this film a shot whenever you can, and see what you think!

Final Grade: A

Movie Review # 512: Ambulance (2022)

Ladies and gentlemen, today, we are going to review an action thriller film that involves cops, banks robbers, EMTs, and some other people that end up having a scuffle that could potentially turn into a big battle. Starring Jake Gylenhaal, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Eiza Gonzalez, Jackson White, and some other people, the action thriller movie is Ambulance.

Plot: When a bank robber, and a war veteran (Jake Gylenhaal, and Yahya Abdul Mateen II) get involved in a bank robbery that leads into a shootout, and having to transfer an injured cop (Jackson White) to a hospital without getting caught by the cops, can an EMT (Eiza Gonzalez), who is held hostage, help keep the injured cop alive until they arrive at their destination?

Okay, let me tell you all, first off, that the setup for this storyline is intelligent. I mean having two half brothers as being a war veteran, and a bank robber is very creative. Not to mention that it was cool to have Jake Gylenhaal play a more complex character this time around as well. Additionally, the movie does a good job of showing how criminals can sometimes find attempted ways to outsmart the authorities. the main characters are mostly very well written too. The rest of the cast was okay. Not bad, just okay. Additionally, the action was really good. The acting, in addition to Jake Gylenhaal, and Yahya Abdul Mateen II, was also really good. In addition to all of this, the movie does a really great job of demonstrating potential life and death situations. Oh, and how could you not like this movie teaching people to appreciate good things about someone, rather than dwelling on their flaws?

Still, the film does suffer from some flaws here and there, such as Ambulance’s story dragging at some points. I mean there are a few points where you find yourself feeling like there is a little much filler at times, since there were some scenes that felt rather pointless, and didn’t seem to go anywhere. Also, can one be sure that some of the characters truly learned their lessons from some of the mistakes that they made? As for the ending, though some aspects of it felt satisfying, there were others that didn’t seem to feel fully resolved, particularly when it came to certain characters in this film. Finally, why did certain inappropriate expressions need to be used on a constant basis? Typical R-rated film, I suppose? Got me!

And that’s my review for Ambulance. Though this may not be one of the best action films, it’s still worth seeing. It does a good job of representing life, has really good action, and has a few other good things about it too. Definitely see it when you can, and see what you think!

Final Grade: B

Movie Review # 511: The Lost City (2022)

Alright, today, we are going to be reviewing yet another film. This time, we will be talking a about a film that is basically a mix of comedy, and adventure. You know, kind of like a Get Smart type of film, accept with some more fictional elements mixed in, and things like that. Starring Sandra Bullock, Channing Tatum, Daniel Radcliffe, Brad Pitt, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and quite a few other people, the movie is The Lost City.

Plot: A reclusive female author named Loretta Sage (Sandra Bullock) writes about a fictional city with hidden treasures beyond one’s imagination. But one day, when a billionaire named Abigail Fairfax (Daniel Radcliffe), and his thugs abduct Loretta, and take her to a remote island in the Atlantic Sea that supposedly holds a legendary treasure, can a cover model named Alan Caprison (Channing Tatum) track her down, and bring Sage back to the US before she is forced to remain a hostage for Fairfax, and his greedy plans?

Okay, first of all, one ought to give credit to The Lost City for how creatively set up it is, particularly in the beginning. I mean first, the film starts off acting like your typical romantic comedy type of film, like with Two Weeks Notice, The Proposal (which, oddly enough, those films also starred at least Sandra Bullock) and then turning into this National Treasure, or Indiana Jones type of movie. Yeah, how often does that happen in a movie? Rhetorical! It’s also genius how the main characters found very brilliant to survive while running, and getting hunted down by the villains in the jungle. Oh, and how could you not like the lush landscape of the jungle? It was also good to get even temporarily immersed in another culture, as this film progresses. And how could one not appreciate both action and comedy coming together for this film? For those of you who saw 2008’s Get Smart, if you liked that movie, chances are you’ll also enjoy The Lost City. Okay, maybe not quite as much as Get Smart, but fairly close nonetheless. Finally, this film does a great job of teaching the audience that it is good to move forward at some point in one’s life.

If there were any flaws to point out with this film, it would be that one, there is a little bit of nudity at one point. Thankfully those moments didn’t go quite all out, but still. Also, there were one, or two plot holes as well. Oh, and this is a minor thing, why is one of the male characters named Abigail? Whenever has there been a male named that? Just a thought!

And that’s my review for The Lost City. Yeah, even though it may be inappropriate at points here and there, along with certain other flaws, it is definitely a film that is a fun time. I would say that even if you can make time to see it even in theaters, definitely do so. You may yet have a very fun time watching it! Well, again, go see it, and see what you think!

Final Grade: A-

Movie Review # 510: Sonic The Hedgehog 2 (2022)

Hey everyone, hope you all are doing well, and welcome to another session of movie reviewing! Today, we will be reviewing a sequel to a hit from 2020, PRE-COVID, that may be the start of a franchise, possibly known as the Sonic Cinematic Universe. After we got the first film in February 2020, we now arrive with a sequel as of April 2022, simply known as Sonic The Hedgehog 2.

Plot: When circumstances allow for Sonic the hedgehog’s nemesis, Dr. Robotnik/Dr. Eggman (Jim Carrey) to return from exile on a fictional planet called Mushroom Planet, Sonic (Ben Schwartz) must now face off with not only Eggman, and his robot technology, but a new ally of Eggman’s, an echidna named Knuckles (Idris Elba). With the help of a new friend named Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey), will Sonic The Hedgehog be able to defeat his archenemy, and get rid of him for good this time?

Well, what can one say? The first one was certainly good, but not quite as great as one might have hoped for. So now that we arrive with the sequel two years later, is it any better? Actually, it is by a little bit. It’s not quite perfect, as there were one, or two cringeworthy moments in this sequel. Aside from that, however, the movie does improve in quite a few areas from it’s predecessor. One, there were some tie-ins from the first film. This is specifically true with throwbacks to certain events that occurred in the first film. When I saw certain events unfold in the first film, I found myself thinking that some things either felt rushed, or didn’t make sense, or both. Now, I think I may know why, and that likely being because of the filmmakers maybe wanting to shed more light in this regard in Sonic The Hedgehog 2. Anyway, both the voice acting for the CGI characters, and the actors that play the humans are also really good. And man, there is also one of the biggest highlights of this film, the comedy. Let me tell you, there are plenty of points where you will belly laugh in this film, especially when it comes to any of the times that Dr. Eggman is onscreen. Like with his other roles in films like The Mask, The Grinch, Bruce Almighty, and many other comedic films, Jim Carrey has this way of entertaining audiences that not nearly as many actors have seemed to top. And again, the rest of the acting, and voice acting, is top notch too, especially from James Marsden, Ben Schwartz, and even Idris Elba voicing Knuckles. Wow, after Elba had hits with voicing acting with characters like Chief Bogo, and Shere Khan in films like Zootopia, and the 2016 remake of The Jungle Book respectively, it is great to see him pull off his acting skills once again. The movie also has more creativity that the first Sonic The Hedgehog film seemed to lack. Yeah, you’d most likely be astonished as to how imaginative this film can be at times. Also, to those of you who especially have enjoyed playing the Sonic video games, how could you not be excited for the newer characters that are introduced in this sequel? Also, the score, how could you not like the score by Tom Holkenborg? Also, some of the character arcs were very good too. I won’t go into details on those, but you may, or may not be surprised by how well those are handled. Oh, and the world building is definitely upgraded this time around too. Finally, it’s great how this movie teaches great lessons about family sticking together no matter what, being willing to look at the positive side of life in all circumstances, and lessons like those.

And that’s my review for Sonic The Hedgehog 2. Wow, what an improvement from the first film. Honestly, even if you’re not too big of a video game person, you might find yourself enjoying this film more than the first film. It has excellent characters, great morals, and some really big heart. Yes, as mentioned before, there were one, or two cringeworthy moments. Aside from those, however, this film is most definitely worth seeing. Make it a point to see this film whenever you can. Video gamer, or not, you may yet have a fun time with this one.

Final Grade: A

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