Everyone, tonight, we are going to be reviewing a film that was basically like a Fathom Events type of deal, as this film was only playing in select theaters for almost a week. It is a Christian movie that was based on Christian author Lee Strobel’s book, Case For Heaven, as well as the sequel to the 2017 film, Case For Christ. The one, and only movie adaptation of the book, Case For Heaven.
Plot: In this documentary, author Lee Strobel, and other associates of his discuss what Heaven will be like, as well as discuss the horrible realities of Hell.
This film was really good, whether one chooses to compare it to it’s predecessor, Case For Christ, or not. First of all, like quite a few Christian films as of recently, it is a shame that this film got a limited release. We truly need to be back to the days when Christian films have been in theaters for a while. Hopefully, with films like Case For Christ getting nearly packed out, the US will finally get the message in that regard. Anyway, without hopefully giving much away, this movie has some really great discussions about faith, trust in God, what God is like, and of course the whole deal about Heaven, and briefly about Hell. Of course I won’t go into details as to all that was discussed in this film. However, let’s just say that the conversations are really interesting. Not to mention that by the end, that certain aspects may blow your mind away in terms of making you see things in ways that you might not have ever before. Oh, and some of the animation that occurs in some scenes is also very cool as well. Did not expect some of those sequences as well. So that was a real treat. One other highlight to this film are the amazing testimonies that came out of the different people that talked in this film, in addition to Lee Strobel. Man, were they phenomenal.
And that’s my review for Case For Heaven. If you like Case For Christ, you will also likely love Case For Heaven just as much, maybe more. It has great people that talk in this film, amazing topics, cool testimonies, and things like that. Which is why it’s a shame that movies like this have been unable to stay in theaters longer. At this point, when it comes to video, or streaming, make a point to see it when you can. You will most likely be blown away it.
Alright, so today, we are going to be reviewing the latest superhero film that was made by Marvel, and Columbia Pictures. Starring Jared Leto, and others, let’s discuss Morbius.
Plot: When a scientist named Michael Morbius (Jared Leto), his surrogate brother, Milo (Matt Smith), and a female scientist named Martine Bancroft (Adria Arjona) discover that synthetic blood from bats can cause super powers on humans, it is up to them to stop the spread of the blood, and prevent many people in the human race from becoming psychotic.
Okay, even for a Marvel film, Morbius, the latest Marvel film, is not all that good. Yes, there was great action at points, and things like that. And yes, the concept was nice too. And how could one not like the compare/contrast deal with certain characters in this film? However, the execution with the story, and the whole idea with the synthetic blood didn’t seem to be all that well developed. Even then, the film has a great many other problems as well. The film seems to go way overboard with the violence at times. Quite honestly, part of me was rather surprised that Morbius didn’t receive an R-rating with the amount of violence that occurred at certain points in this film. Like really? What’s worse is that, besides Morbius, and possibly Milo, the characters don’t seem to be all that fun, and can be a little too depressing to watch onscreen at times. The ending also seemed to feel a little rushed as well. Well, on the brighter side, at least there was some cool flying around, and CGI effects at points.
And that’s my review for Morbius. It does have some cool action sequences, some cool CGI effects, and things like those, I’ll give the film that much credit. However, it’s not one of those feel good films, Marvel, or not, that you’d want to watch over and over again. Still, I would say see it at least once if you want to be fully caught up on the Marvel film series, if not for other reasons.
Good evening everyone! Hope you all are doing well, and enjoying this spring weather for those of you who have the privilege of experiencing nicer weather. Anyway, today, we are going to be reviewing an action movie that has seemed to be well known, but has not had any sequels until this year, when this film gets a sequel released around the summertime of this year. Yeah, how interesting, considering many movies have had sequels that were released in the 1990s, sometimes even 2000s, you name it. Well, not only does this film star big names like Tom Cruise, but this particular film seemed to help him become more popular, and go into later films like Far And Away, Jerry McGuire, the Mission Impossible movies, Minority Report, you name it. Yes, Tom Cruise did Star in lesser known films that came out before the one that we’re reviewing today. However, none of them seem to be as well known as what we will be talking about today. Well, without further ado, let’s dive into what was most likely one of the most popular films that starred people like Tom Cruise, as well as is apparently said to be the highest grossing film of 1986. The one, and only, Top Gun!
Plot: An egocentric Naval officer named Pete Mitchell (or Maverick, and played by Tom Cruise), and his buddy, Nick Bradshaw (aka Goose, and played by Anthony Edwards), who have been doing test flights around the Indian Ocean, get enrolled at the Naval Fighter Weapon School, known as Top Gun, in Miramar, California. As he, and Goose begin to make new friends there, such as Lieutenant Tom Kazansky (aka Iceman, and played by Val Kilmer), Mike Metcalf (aka Viper, and played by Tom Skerritt), and the beautiful teacher of the academy, Charlotte Blackwood (aka Charlie, and played by Kelly McGillis), and go through some special training at the academy, will Maverick be the same egocentric person that he was before, or will he learn to see things in life from other people’s points of view for once in his lifetime?
First of all, I would like to start this review out by mentioning that I had watched bits, and pieces of this film, but most likely never watched it from beginning to end until recently. Again, I had seen pieces such as when the “Danger Zone” sequence occurs, and other moments when the fun musical score plays at significant, or dramatic moments, and scenes like those. However, I’m not sure that I recall seeing Top Gun in it’s entirety until recently. With that said, there were a couple reasons that I wanted to finally make a point to watch the entire movie sometime this year. One was that, well, an unexpected sequel is planned to be released in the late spring, or early summertime of this year. The other reason being that I had always wanted to sit down, and watch this film all the way through, and see if it truly is as good as a lot of people say that is. I will say this, though, before watching this film, though I didn’t expect to enjoy this film all too much, and thought it would just be your average adult action film, I decided to go into this film with an open mind. So, did this film reach, exceed, or worsen my expectations? Well, I’ll tell you the truth, guys, and gals, Top Gun exceeded my expectations. To begin, it is amazing to see how much of an impact that Top Gun left when it first released, and over the years after that. I mean to think that not only was Top Gun a major breakthrough for Tom Cruise’s acting career, but also the fact that this film is said to have inspired more people to want to become Navy pilots, as well there apparently being recruitment booths in some of the movie theaters that Top Gun was playing at? Yeah, if that was in fact the case, how often do you hear of something like that happening? Just comes to show how much of an impact that this film has had on the US, and maybe even the world, wouldn’t you say? Anyway, putting interesting information like that aside, how was Top Gun as a movie? Well, for the most part, Top Gun is an incredible piece of art. To begin, how could you not enjoy the acting, as well as there being either well known, or formerly well known people like Tom Cruise, Kelly McGillis, Val Kilmer, Anthony Edwards, Tom Skerritt, and some other people? And, as I mentioned earlier, there is the score by Harold Faltermeyer. Even if this score does in fact have an 80s vibe, it does surprisingly hold up even over three decades later. It wouldn’t be surprising if someone might want to order the soundtrack, and listen to it. Yeah, definitely saying a lot, yes? Not to mention that this action film has some original songs in it, like “Danger Zone,” “Mighty Wings,” “Heaven In Your Eyes,” and other like those. Yes, there were a couple songs that were written sometime before this film was released. Still, to think that Top Gun has mostly original songs written for an adult action film like this one? Yeah, it most likely comes to show even more so how determined director Tony Scott, producers Don Simpson, and Jerry Bruckheimer, and the rest of the crew were to make this film as great as possible. Now, how about the story? Well, the story is really engaging overall. For one, the action is amazing, even if it mostly involves people driving, or flying around areas throughout this film. Still, considering that most action films involve people kicking other people’s butts, that’s more than likely a welcome change. Additionally, the script is brilliant, memorable, and even funny at times. I mean especially some of the jokes that are made in this film, how could one not laugh at points? There are also the characters. This especially is the case for Pete Mitchell (aka Maverick), Charlie, Ice, Goose, and Viper. Each of these characters miraculously stand out, and are likable, from their memorable lines, and the bondage that these characters have with each other. Not only that, but these characters, and many of the others have some really excellent character growth as the story progresses. It’s astounding how even more likable the characters are, how much they stand out, and how much depth there is to each of them. What’s more is that while watching this film, it wouldn’t be surprising if, at points, some people were to compare characters like Pete Mitchell/Maverick to animated characters like Judy Hopps (Zootopia), or even Simba (The Lion King), for instance, especially the former. Yeah, interesting, considering the films were released thirty years, and eight years respectively following Top Gun’s release, you know? One other thing to note, especially in regards to Pete Mitchell, is that I’m sure that he is a character that a lot of people could more than likely relate to, whether they’ve been a pilot, or not. And another thing! The cinematography is phenomenal, particularly when characters are flying around the ocean, in mountainous terrain, or even when we have sunsets in this film. Finally, Top Gun teaches some really good lessons. One of a couple most notable examples is how, it is best to be willing to be humble, and learn from others, even if you think you might know it all. Yes, it is good to have knowledge, and experience when it comes to certain situations, and jobs in life. However, it is also best to also see things from the viewpoint of others as well. Another really great lesson to learn from films like Top Gun is that whether one is responsible for situations gone wrong, or not, it is best not to dwell on what one may, or may not have done wrong. Rather, it is best to learn from mistakes, and move forward when possible. Yeah, seeing as both scenarios have been issues with many people in life, it is best to learn both lessons sooner rather than later in life, you know? The only thing that one should note as a possible flaw in this film is that there is a scene that could potentially be a little too adult for a PG-rated film. Yeah, I understand that this film was released in 1986. Still, it is worth noting, since even young kids watch both G-rated, and PG-rated films, you know?
And that’s my review for Top Gun. Even if Top Gun does have that one flaw, the film is well crafted, and put together. The characters are phenomenal, the story is mostly great, the characters stand out, and the film could teach some really great lessons to others at times. Because of this, it is understandable as to why Top Gun has been named as one of the greatest films by the National Film Registry. If you haven’t seen the film yet, then definitely make it a point to do so. Even if you decide if you don’t want to see the second Top Gun come this summer, this one is still worth seeing. Trust me, when you see it, you’d be surprised by how much Top Gun stands out from your typical adult action film. Again, definitely see it whenever you can! You may yet find yourself wanting to watch it multiple times after that, even if once, or twice a year.
Everyone, today, we are going to be reviewing the first of a few superhero films that were made by Warner Bros., and DC Comics, and will be coming out over the course of this year. Not only that, but apparently today’s movie review subject is the first that was released by Warner Bros. to ONLY get a theatrical release, and not be released on HBO Max simultaneously. Yes, it will stream on HBO Max 45 days after being released in theaters, but still. Hopefully, even then, it will be in theaters for a little while longer. Well, regardless, let’s talk about the newest Warner Bros., and DC Comics film, which was just released on March 4th, 2022, the one, and only, The Batman.
Plot: When a criminal by the name of Edward Nashton/the Riddler (Paul Dano) begins to wreak havoc on the fictional Gotham City, it is up to Bruce Wayne/Batman, lieutenant James Gordon (Jeffrey Wright), and female fighter named Selina Kyle/Catwoman (Zoe Kravitz) to solve riddles of his, in order to hopefully catch him, and bring him to justice once and for all. Will they succeed, or will the criminal mastermind disappear into the shadows forever?
Well, definitely not quite one of the best Batman films to be released, but still very good nonetheless. First of all, Michael Giacchino’s score is fairly good, most notably when it comes to the action sequences of this film. Additionally, the characters are very well thought out, especially the Batman, Catwoman, and the Riddler, along with some of the side villains in this film. It’s surprising how much main characters Batman, and Catwoman especially grow as this film continues to progress. Also, it’s interesting how this film can seem to act like both an action film, and a mystery detective type of film, and surprisingly work well. Not sure how often that has seemed to work with other films. But hey, at least here, it manages to do so. In addition to all of this, how could you not appreciate elements like the costume designs, and sound effects? First of all, Catwoman has a cool design when she’s wearing her superhero suit. Additionally, Batman’s vehicle is most likely a little more unique than in previous Batman movies. Oh, and the noise that the Riddler makes from time to time is a really cool noise too. Oh, and how could you not like even other vehicles like the motorcycles, for instance? Oh, and the way that Batman flies around on occasion was very impressive too. Don’t believe me? Again, see the movie for yourself!
Now, all of this sounds like the movie is perfect so far, does it not? Still, I have to tell you all that this new Batman film is probably not quite one of the best to be released as of recently. First of all, even though Giacchino’s score is good at least during the more epic moments, it can also cause the movie to feel a little too sad, and depressing, particularly around the middle to end of the film. As for the acting, it was good for the most part too. However, Robert Pattinson, who played Bruce Wayne/Batman this time around, he was okay as that character. Here’s the thing, he does better when he’s running around being the Batman. However, when he’s just being Bruce, he seems a little too serious, almost seems to talk, and act like he did when playing Edward in the Twilight movie series. His acting didn’t seem quite as bad in this case, but his performance still seemed to feel a little too mediocre. Again, he seemed to have done a better job in the 2020 film, Tenet? Yeah, where was your better acting there, Pattinson? Oh well! Overall, I’m sure that many of us can agree that Pattinson seems to lack the same amount of delivery, and charisma that actors like Christian Bale, and Ben Affleck had for more recent Batman films. Oh, and another thing! Why was the movie around three hours? Okay, I get that this film needed to have room to develop the characters, story, and the world of Gotham. Still, couldn’t they have done that in a somewhat shorter amount of time? That is especially since certain fighting scenes may have dragged on a little too long, and the story seemed to drag at a few points too, you know? Finally, the ending was alright, but there were parts of it that didn’t seem to make sense all that much. I won’t give anything away as to why, but let’s just say that the ending could have maybe gone through one, if not two more rewrites.
And that’s my review for 2022’s The Batman. Yes, even there are some areas where this film could have been better, it is still an o really fun time. The action is good, many of the characters are great, and the film does try to be a different type of Batman film, even if it sometimes fails. I would say still definitely go see it if you haven’t yet. Even if not quite one of the best films out there, it’s still worth seeing. Again, go see it, and see what you think!
Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen! Hope you all are doing well! Today, we are going to be reviewing the old version of Agatha Christie’s Death On The Nile. Now, before we dive into the plot, and the review, and things like that, I must confess that I felt somewhat reluctant to see this older version of the story after not having the best experience with the newer one recently. However, since I already ordered it from the library shortly before seeing the newer Death On The Nile, I went ahead, and went into this old one with an open mind. Was this old version any better? Well, let’s find out in a moment, shall we?
Plot: When a detective named Hercule Poirot (Peter Ustinov), a couple named Simon, and Linnet Doyle (Simon MacCorkindale, and Lois Chiles), their friend Jackie Bellefort (Mia Farrow), and some other people board a mini cruise ship called the S.S. Karnak that cruises along some of the Nile River, a murder occurs. Now, it is up to detective Poirot, and his friend, Colonel Race (David Niven) to find the culprit. Will they succeed?
Now, you may all be wondering, is this version any better than the newer one? Miraculously, it actually is. Yes, the story does still feel somewhat convoluted, especially near the end. However, despite that, this one seems to still feel a little more fun, and upbeat. Yeah, that’s more than one can likely say about the newer one. Why is that, you may wonder? Could it be due to people like Angela Lansbury adding a sort of flare with her comedic delivery lines on occasion throughout this film? Maybe it’s Nino Rota’s musical score that seemed more fun, and upbeat than that of Patrick Doyle in the newer one (even if Doyle’s score was good too)? Or better yet, maybe the 140 minute running time, which was more than the 127 minutes that the newer one had, seemed to help to flesh out the characters a little more? One could only speculate as far as reasons for this older being the superior film of the two goes. One way, or the other, this film is really good in nearly every way. The cinematography is really good, especially when it comes to seeing the pyramids of Egypt, and the beauty of the Nile River. Also the fun, and playful banter between some of the characters is a fun watch onscreen throughout this film. Additionally, the acting is really good. First of all, I was surprised to see Peter Ustinov, who voiced the villain, Prince John in the 1973 Disney animated film, Robin Hood, go from voicing a villain like him, to playing a heroic character like Hercule Poirot in this film. Pretty big role change, wouldn’t you say? Also, as mentioned before, Angela Lansbury, as Salome Otterbourne, was a fun watch onscreen, along with Mia Farrow (who would go on to voice the main Unicorn character in The Last Unicorn four years later, in 1982), Simon MacCorkindale as Simon Doyle, Lois Chile as Linnet Ridgeway Doyle, and the rest of the cast. Speaking of the characters, they were much more fun this time around. Again, definitely more than one can say about at least some of them in the newer one. Additionally, can we take a moment to appreciate how detective Poirot was not willing to give up on his mission, even in spite of his, and Colonel Race’s mission becoming rather difficult to the point where it would have been easy to do so? Oh, and another thing! How could one not like how both the beginning, and end credits were set up? Finally, the rest of the script, in addition to the comedic moments, was brilliantly executed.
And that’s my review for 1978’s Death On The Nile. Yeah, after seeing both this film, and the new 2022 remake, it may, or may not be surprising how much more fun, and upbeat the older one seems to be. Sure, the newer one isn’t exactly bad by any means. In fact, that one seems to have it’s good points too. Still, it’s this older one seems to have it’s dark moments, while surprisingly having it’s more lighthearted ones too. Again, I would probably at least recommend that one see the newer one at least once. Still, this older one is worth rewatching much more than the newer version. If you haven’t seen the old version of this story, definitely make a point to see it, and see what you think!
Alright, so today, we are going to do a final movie review at least for this week. It is a remake of an old film of the same name from 1978. The one, and only, Death On The Nile.
Plot: When a married couple (Armie Hammer, and Gal Gadot), a friend of theirs (Emma Mackay), a detective (Kenneth Branagh), and some other people board a cruise ship called the S.S. Karnak that goes to Egypt, it is revealed, at some point, that someone aboard the ship murdered one of the passengers. Now, can detective Hercule Poirot, and others find the culprit before the voyage is over?
Well, what can I say? First of all, Kenneth Branagh did a good job with the choice for the score. Patrick Doyle does well worth integrating music of the early 1930s with Arab music that would most likely play in Egypt. For someone who may be well known for scoring in family films, as well as using Irish music (such as movies like 1998’s Quest For Camelot, and 2012’s Brave), Death On The Nile was a welcome change for him to change his style of music. Additionally, the film is very intense at times. Sure, unlike other murder mystery films of this type, this one was more dialogue than action, but still. Also, how could you not give props to detectives like the one in this one for not jumping to conclusions right away, but was willing to dig deeper in situations before giving final verdicts, you know? I can’t imagine how difficult such a job could be sometimes. Also, how could you not appreciate the acting, from Kenneth Branagh, who also directed this film, to Arnie Hammer, Gal Gadot, and others. Man, Gal Gadot especially was great playing a different type of role from what she did in the recent Wonder Woman films. And wow, the cinematography is breathtaking in this film, especially as the audience gets to watch our characters sail through Egypt.
Still, even if all the above pros help make this film decent, Death On The Nile is probably not one of the best films to date. First off, the movie seems to be start off being a little too slower paced for the first 20-25 minutes, followed by getting the story going more. As a result, the story doesn’t seem to feel as strong as it likely could have been in the end. Plus, not nearly as many of the characters are as fleshed out as they could have been. What’s more is that you don’t seem to understand the motives of all the characters. Yes, some of them, you do, but the changes with some of them didn’t seem to make sense entirely, you know? Additionally, near the end you may find yourself believing the story to feel rather convoluted. Because of this, it seems to make a good majority of the film rather depressing more often than not. I mean at least with films like say the Sherlock Holmes films that featured Robert Downey Jr., at least those were mystery films that seemed to have more substance, and feel a little more uplifting. Not sure the same can be said about this new Death On The Nile.
And that’s my review for 2022’s Death On The Nile. Overall, is it a bad film? No! In fact, one could go so far as to say that it is worth seeing at least just to learn lessons like why things like murder, greed, and many other bad qualities of the sort are wrong. Having said that, however, this newer Death On The Nile isn’t one of those films that you might find yourself eagerly wanting to rewatch over, and over again after the first watch. Still, definitely see it at least once, and see what you think of this film!
Good evening everyone, and welcome to another movie review! Today, we are reviewing a comedy-drama road film that involves an Army Ranger, and a dog. Not only that, but Channing Tatum plays the main character in this film. So, without further ado, I present to you all my review of the comedy-drama, Dog.
Plot: When a U.S. Army Ranger named Jackson Briggs (Channing Tatum) is parked with a German shepherd named Lulu, he, and the dog must now travel from an Army base in Tacoma Washington to Nogales, Arizona to get her to the funeral of her former handler. Will Jackson fulfill his task within five days?
Well, to start things off, Dog is a very funny film, as well as dramatic at times. Also, even if this film may look like your typical road trip type of movie, Dog manages to pull off making it more than that. I mean not only does Jackson make his journey to try to get the dog assigned to him to her destination, but it’s almost like he starts to have some growth in himself along the way as well. Also, Tatum, who of course plays Jackson in this film, delivers some really hilarious lines. Sure, some of them may feel a little corny at times, but somehow, you can’t help but enjoy even those moments anyway. The cinematography is also breathtaking, whether it be seeing gray plains, mountainous terrain, or even deserts in this film. This movie can also serve as a good reminder of how some dogs can be sensitive about things like where to be petted, touched, you name it. Also, to see Thomas Newman of all people compose the score? I mean we’re talking about the very person who composed for adult films in the past like Pay It Forward, as well as for family films like Finding Nemo. Is his score a masterpiece in this film? Not sure that I would go far as to say that in this case. Still, you can’t help but still enjoy it regardless.
Still, there were some flaws in this film. First of all, there is a scene where a character is attempting to get healed from two other people with supposed mystic healing power. Yeah, I understand that kind of mumbo jumbo stuff may happen in real life. Still, did something creepy like that need to be incorporated in this film? Also, what was with lines like how one can call a rock, or other objects God? Seriously, that was not the best thing to say in this film. Finally, there was a point where Jackson seemed to act ungrateful even in spite of something good happening to him. I’m thinking, really? Not something that is a good example to show to the audience, you know?
And that’s my review for Dog. Despite the few flaws, Dog is still a fun film. Yes, the flaws that were in this film were especially not the best examples to put in this movie. Still, Dog is very funny at times, the score is decent, the bond between Jackson, and Lulu is good, and the cinematography is also very amazing. I would say definitely give this film a watch if you can. You’d still find yourself having a great time since it is a mostly good film.
Hellos everyone! Hope you all are doing well these days. Today, we are doing yet another movie review. This time, we shall talk about what is most likely a romantic comedy with a little bit of original music in it. Oh, and did I forget to also mention that this film has stars like Owen Wilson, Jennifer Lopez, and Sarah Silverman in it, along with some other people? Anyway, it is the one, and only Marry Me.
Plot: When a popular singer named Katarina Valdez (Jennifer Lopez) is about to have a wedding that falls apart, she ends up marrying a divorced math teacher named Charlie Gilbert during a concert that she holds. Seeing as the couple is now just getting to know each other, the question remains, will they stay married to each other, or will it turn out that they’ve both made one of the worst mistakes of their lives?
Well, the film can feel somewhat like your typical romantic comedy at first. However, what makes Marry Me seem to stand out a little more from others is that it seems to tackle some interesting issues when it comes to the world of dating. True, there may be some things in this film that may not be entirely realistic. Still, at the same time, this film can tackle some very serious issues, as well as questions that we may need to ask ourselves when it comes to either pursuing relationships, making a move to a new place, or things like that. Some of these questions could be ones like, “How far are we willing to go when it comes to loving others, family members, or significant others?”, “How much is one willing to sacrifice?”, and questions like those as you watch this film. Also, even if this film is rated PG-13, there are times when this film can potentially feel like it could have been rated PG. But hey, obviously because of the somewhat overuse of crude language (typical PG-13, and R-rated films), and some scenes that may have been a little too inappropriate at times, that did not end up being the case. Another thing is that this film does show how difficult the life of being a celebrity can be. The acting is also really good. Honestly, part of me is rather surprised to find how well people like Owen Wilson, Sarah Silverman, and Jennifer Lopez especially worked together when it came to being in this film. The chemistry between Wilson, and Lopez was especially phenomenal. Also, John Debney doing the music for this film, you can’t go wrong once again. Once again, he shows how fun, and upbeat he can make his score at points in a movie of this type, or sad music when things can be rather depressing. Now, many composers seem to do well at capturing the right emotions at the right times. Debney seems to be one of those many composers who does well on that. Additionally, the movie takes time to help the audience get to know it’s characters as well as possible. The main characters are not only fun to watch onscreen, but even the secondary ones are fun too. Finally, how could you not love hearing the hit original hit single, “Marry Me”? Yeah, not only is it great to listen to an original song in a movie like this one for once in a long while, but you’ll probably have it stuck in your head after you leave the movie. Definitely saying something, wouldn’t you say?
And that’s my review for Marry Me. It is a very cute, and fun story that is definitely worth seeing. There is great heart to this film, the characters are fun, and, of course, need I mention the hit title song for this film as well? If you haven’t seen Marry Me, I would highly recommend it. You will laugh, sometimes cry, and the movie will pull at your heartstrings at all the right times. Also, if you want to see a movie in which actors that may not have worked with each other prior to this film doing so now, then all the more reason to check this film out. You’d be surprised by how enjoyable this film is overall. Well, check out Marry Me whenever you can, and see what you think!
Alright, so for those of you who read my review for Fiddler On The Roof, which was of course my 500th movie review, I hope you all enjoyed that review of mine. I must say that I really enjoyed rewatching Fiddler On The Roof again, and making it one of my milestone reviews. Still, the show must now continue on. Today, we are going to be reviewing a film that has been based on a popular video game series. In this case, this particular video game series is part of the PlayStation console. But of course we won’t talk about the video game. It will be the movie that’s based off of the video game. So yeah, let’s talk about the movie, Uncharted.
Plot: When two fortune hunters named Nathan Drake (Tom Holland), and Victor Sullivan (Mark Wahlberg) hear about a treasure map that could lead them to treasure that was left behind by an expedition that was led by Ferdinand Magellan centuries before, they make it their mission to set out, and find it. Will this adventure be real, or will it be for nothing in the end?
Alright, first off, I don’t recall ever playing these games for PlayStation. Since I’m not that familiar with the game series as a result, you will not hear me making comparisons between this, and the game. With that said, let’s talk about the good things in this film. First off, some of the stunts are really cool, particularly when our heroes get in fights, or even have to go on chases in an attempt to bring certain villains to justice. Another benefit for this film is that if you were one of those who had seen this film, or at least had seen trailers for it, and you had never played, or even heard of the Uncharted video games, you might not be upset about that. Truthfully, this film is very enjoyable, in part, because this film is easily distinguishable in terms of how one couldn’t tell if this was based on a video game, or even a novel. I mean this film almost feels like an Indiana Jones, Jungle Cruise, Pirates Of The Caribbean, or even National Treasure type of movie than say Prince Of Persia. Oh, don’t get me wrong! Movies, like Prince Of Persia, or many other films in the past that were based off of video games have still been good. In fact, I would still not mind revisiting them from time to time. Still, my point is that Uncharted, somehow doesn’t seem to feel like a movie that’s based off of a video game. Is that a good thing, or bad thing? More than likely, it’s a good thing. But I would be curious to hear other people’s opinions in that regards. Anyway, Tom Holland, and Mark Wahlberg work well off of each other. Not only do they help serve as proof as to what helps make a great action film, but they also provide some very comedic lines in the process. Additionally, it’s really cool to have characters that grow, and also learn some important skills, like how to be wise in terms of who they should trust, or not trust, making plans of how to chart certain courses, and other things along those lines. Oh, and it’s also great that this film can do a great job, at times in this film, of teaching the audience when to make the right decisions, be it either dangerous, or non-dangerous situations. Finally, as far as the pros of this film go, there are the villains. Wow, they are really cool to watch onscreen. First off, can we talk about how interesting it is for Antonio to go from being a heroic main character in movies like the Zorro films, to now playing the role of a ruthless mercenary in this Uncharted film? Rather big change, wouldn’t you say? Also, Tati Gabrielle as the main female villain, Jo Braddock, she is so cool to watch onscreen. I may have said in the past that certain female villains in films like the 007 James Bond were hardcore. However, a title like that can probably go to a female villain like Jo Braddock as well. She fights well, and is not one that you want to mess with unless you have to for some reason.
However, Uncharted did end up having a few flaws that kept it from being perfect. To start, the beginning of this movie could have probably been set up differently by making different events occur than what we got in the end. I mean what we got for the beginning was okay. However, had this film gone through one, or two other drafts, the beginning, along with a couple things could have more than likely made this film better. That leads me to the next flaw of this film. While characters Nathan Drake, and Victor Sullivan work well off of each other, and the villains are very good, there are certain other characters whose dynamics don’t seem to work quite nearly as well when it comes to spending time with either the main characters, or even other characters that appear over the course of this film. Finally, there was the ending. Again, like with the beginning, the ending wasn’t necessarily bad. Still, the ending could have maybe continued for maybe an additional 5-10 minutes, and either had a little more closure with certain characters, or had some reconciliation that should have occurred before the movie was over. Who knows? Maybe we’ll have something like that if this movie gets a sequel. We shall see.
And that’s my review for Uncharted. It is a very fun action-packed film that would be fun for dating couples to see, or even parents with kids. Yes, this film is rated PG-13. Still, Uncharted doesn’t seem to feel like it’s rated PG-13, at least not as much as many other PG-13 rated films of the past. It has great action, a creative story, and quite a few good characters. Yes, again, this film has flaws. But the things that make it mostly good outweigh those flaws by a long shot. If you want to see a PG-13 rated movie that seems to feel a little more family friendly than other films that have been rated that, as well as a film that doesn’t seem to have the feel of a movie that’s based off of a video game, then definitely give this film a chance. You may yet find yourself pleasantly surprised by it. Still, definitely see it, and let me know what you think!
Alright everyone, we have finally arrived at another milestone mark. Today, much like with my 450th review, we are going to be reviewing another movie musical. And not just any musical, oh no! Much like The Sound Of Music, this one is also legendary, winning Academy Awards for Best Cinematography, Best Music, and Score, and Best Sound, as well as apparently also winning a couple Golden Globes for Best Motion Picture-Musical, or Comedy, and Best Actor in those same categories. Now, you may be wondering, will this start a trend where I make older musicals my milestone reviews from here on out? No, no! I wouldn’t go so far as to say something like that. Still, I had been wanting to rewatch, and review this particular film for a couple reasons. One is that it apparently reached it’s 50th anniversary as of around November of this past year. Second, I remembered enjoying this film as a kid, or teenager, and enjoying it, but wanting to see if I would enjoy it just as much, or more, or even less as an adult. Also, after hearing from many other people that saw it how much they loved it, I figured that it was only fitting that I make this one of those times that it ends up being part of the special reviews that is either in the hundreds, or hundred fifties, or something like that. So now, again, is this film just as good as I thought, or is it better, or even worse? Well, without further ado, let’s dive into what may be one of the most memorable movie musicals, from 1971, Fiddler On The Roof!
Plot: Set in the early 1900s, in Russia, when Jews still lived in little community villages for a time, a Jewish milkman named Tevye (Chaim Topol) lives with his wife, Golden (Norma Crane), and his five unmarried daughters Tzeitel, Hodel, Chava, Shprintze, and Bielke (played by Rosalind Harris, Michele Marsh, Neva Small, Elaine Edwards, and Candy Bonstein). Wanting at least three of his daughters married off, as they are of age, Tevye, and Golden attempt to devise a plan to do so, by having a Jewish matchmaker named Yente (Molly Picon) get them married off, since it is tradition to have arranged marriages. However, when certain men come into play that fall in love with either, Tzeitel, Hodel, or Chava, Tevye, and Golden must choose whether they will stick to tradition of arranged marriages, or if they will be the first people to let their children marry the man of their own choosing.
First off, I remember first watching Fiddler On The Roof during one of my years of being homeschooled. Of course I enjoyed it, despite not watching the film itself since then. Yes, I got to still hear a couple of the songs from it like “Matchmaker, Matchmaker,” and the iconic “If I Were A Rich Man,” during one of my high school years at Jim Elliott Christian Schools, as I was in a play in which those songs were performed, and my musical theater class performed songs from other musicals as well. But of course it’s not the same as seeing a musical in it’s entirety. Either way, I just confess this as well. After watching Fiddler On The Roof once before so many years ago, I remember seeing this movie, most notably when it came to the the characters, in black and white in terms who I believed the good guys to be, and who I thought the bad guys were. If I were honest, I probably might have seen other aspects of this film through those types of lenses as well. However, watching Fiddler On The Roof again years later, I was surprised to find that things were just not that cut, and dry when it came to films like Fiddler On The Roof. Sure that might have been the case when it came to certain similar scenes in a movie like An American Tail (which came out fifteen years after this film’s release). Still, not so much the case here. For example, when you have people in this movie, like the Cossacks, performing those things, known as pogroms, in the Jewish communities (for those of you who don’t know what those were, feel free to go look that up, or watch movies like Fiddler On The Roof, and An American Tail to get a visual of what they were), it is interesting to find that not all of them wanted to perform those, but were willing to anyway, as they knew that the situations would more than likely be worse otherwise. I could also go on about other aspects of this film, such as certain characters making choices that could potentially cause conflict in their families, and other aspects of this film too. However, let’s move on from there, and talk about the other aspects of Fiddler On The Roof. To begin, there are the characters. Wow, I can see why Norman Jewison, the director of this film, has this film be around three hours long. Each of these characters stand out incredibly, from Tevye, Golden, and their five daughters, to Lazar Wolf, butcher, the Rabbi, the poor tailor Motel Kamzoil, Perchik, the Bolshevik revolutionary, and of course, the Russian Constable. They are all so fleshed out that it would be hard to not to find one that could either a favorite, or even least favorite one. Hard to believe? Well, movies like Fiddler On The Roof, The Sound Of Music, and I’m sure many other films that were released back around this time period serve as great examples of why films of this caliber were so great in the first place. Next, there is the music! Holy cow, the songs are mostly, if not fully, memorable. “If I Were A Rich Man,” “Sabbath Prayer,” “Sunrise, Sunset,” “To Life,” “Miracle Of Miracles,” you’re more than likely going to have a good majority of these songs stuck in your head for a very, very long time. Seeing as Fiddler On The Roof has been performed at high schools, dinner playhouses, and other places of theater business over the years since this film’s release, that is most definitely saying something. How could this film not win any awards for it’s music? Seriously! Not to mention the amazing orchestra that is featured in some of the musical numbers in this film! Oh, and let’s briefly mention how Tevye most definitely have his all during any of his musical numbers, especially for “If I Were A Rich Man.” Additionally, it is amazing how this film depicts the Jewish culture as closely as possible. I mean you have the Jewish synagogues, Jewish artifacts, the small communities, the clothing, and of course the whole matchmaking process, among many other ways that this film portrays the Jewish culture. It’s also cool how different events of the Bible are briefly brought up at one point in this film. That is especially since, well, if people don’t know all that happened in the Bible, that may pique people’s curiosity, and know what happened with the Jews, and other foreign nations sometimes as well. And another thing! This movie will make you either laugh, or cry, even at unexpected moments. Even when some of the songs are sung, you’d be surprised to find yourself either cracking up real hard, or even feeling heartbroken for any characters that go through very tragic moments. Finally, it’s amazing how the Jews were willing to follow, and do God’s will as best they could. And yeah, how could we not mention that Tevye served as a great example about what it truly means to have a true relationship with God.
And that’s my review for Fiddler On The Roof. I’ll say it again, this film is phenomenal in every way. It has great music, excellent characters, taps the right emotions at the right times, and is overall really well done. If you want to see a movie like that, and that portrays the Jewish culture as accurately as possible, I would highly recommend that you see this film. Guaranteed that you’d find it hard not to enjoy this film to one degree, or another. Yes, it is three hours long. However, those three hours are well deserved for a film like Fiddler On The Roof. If you haven’t seen this film yet, make plans to do so whenever you can! You will more than likely be glad that you did afterwards.
Matthew’s Animated & Live-Action Movie Reviews 
