Plot: Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita) receives a letter that his father is dying, prompting him to return to his homeland of Okinawa. Daniel (Ralph Macchio) tags along, as he wanted to see Miyagi’s homeland. But their arrival is not entirely a warm welcome. Miyagi, and Daniel must now face foes in the forms of the former’s archival, Sato (Danny Kamejima), and his nephew, Chozen (Yuji Okumoto). With further training from Miyagi, can both Daniel, and Miyagi defeat them?
Well, even though this film might not e quite as good as its predecessor, it still has plenty to recommend. For one, there is a lot of action in this film. It’s interesting how much suspense is included in this sequel as well. It was also really cool to learn about the culture of Okinawa as well. What’s even more great is that Daniel was open to the idea of going to Okinawa in the first place simply due to him, and Miyagi being great friends, and Miyagi originally being from there. Additionally, it was great to learn about Okinawa’s culture. Next, it was also great to see Miyagi help Daniel further his study in the art of karate, especially when it would come to the good qualities that would go along with it. Another thing to love about The Karate Kid was how people like Daniel were willing to be brave enough to help others, even risking danger to do so. There were also some surprisingly hilarious moments in this film as well, most notably when it came to scenes that involved Mr. Miyagi. Finally, it was great to have themes, such as showing mercy to others, incorporated into this film.
Still, I will say that I’m not sure that having Daniel’s relationship with one female end, only for him to then have one with another. Honestly, if Karate Kid ended up going a route similar, and have Daniel be in one relationship in one film, then another in the next, and so on, I’m not sure that having Karate Kid sequels would be the best for reasons such as this. Yeah, it’s understandable for films to show that some relationships don’t work out, but still.
And that’s my review for The Karate Kid Part II. Aside from wondering if this franchise follow a cliche similar to that of the James Bond movie series, this sequel is a really good follow up to its predecessor. It has heart, has both good old, and new characters, has hilarious moments, and incorporates great lessons in really clever ways. I would say that if you still have yet to see The Karate Kid Part II, then definitely do so. You’ll enjoy it, I’m sure.
Everyone, in preparation for the upcoming Karate Kid: Legends, we travel back in time to the 1980s, when the Karate Kid film series began in the first place. Today, we begin with the one that started this classic series back in 1984. Man, does time fly! Well, let’s discuss the very first Karate Kid film!
Plot: When teenager Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), and his mother, Lucille (Randee Heller) move to Los Angeles, California from Newark, New Jersey, Daniel makes some friends, including love interest, Ali Mills (Elisabeth Shue). However, he begins to have troubles with many other people, most notably with the leader of a group of bullies, Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka). Now, with the help of landowner Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita), can he learn karate skills, enter the All-Valley Karate Championships, and successfully get Johnny, and his gang from bullying him ever again?
Wow, what an excellent film. The characters are well developed, the acting is awesome, and the story is well done. Honestly, it is also great how well written the relationships are too. A couple of the major highlights, in addition to Daniel, and his Mom, are the relationships between him, and his girlfriend, Ali, as well as his relationship with Mr. Miyagi. Mr. Miyagi is also a great character overall not only for his personality, but also because he helps Daniel become a better person not only for the purpose of being a better fighter, but also for the purpose of helping him grow into a better person overall. The film also did well with establishing the rivalry between Daniel, and karate expert Johnny. Also, how could you not consider certain choreographed moves from characters like Daniel, when he’s trying to practice certain karate moves, very memorable? Additionally, The Karate Kid is also great at portraying relationships in a very realistic way. Finally, The Karate Kid teaches some important lessons about not giving up when it may be easy to do so, and to be willing to face any giants that may come your way in life.
And that’s my review for The Karate Kid. Man, it truly is a classic film with fun action, a heartwarming story, memorable characters, as well as excellent lessons to take away from this film as well. If you haven’t seen this film yet, I would say definitely do so, especially if you’re planning to see Karate Kid: Legends when that gets released here shortly.
And now, we review a film by the name of Legend Of Ochi!
Plot: In a northern village, on the island of Carpathia, a young female farmer named Yuri (Helena Zegel) finds an injured creature called an Ochi one night. Shortly after bonding with the creature, she must take it up to a high place on the mountains to return it to its family, and kind. Can she do so while her psychopathic father (Willem Dafoe), and the rest of her siblings try to hunt it down, and kill it?
Well, I will say this! The landscape, and cinematography was really great. It was also really nice to get to know about the mythical creature known as the Ochi. And yeah, how could you not love the bond between Yuri, and the little Ochi creature that she needed to return to its kind? Additionally, the acting was great, especially from Helena Zegel, and Willem Dafoe. It was also great to see how Yuri was willing to show love, and compassion towards the Ochi, even if nearly everyone in her family wanted to do nothing but annihilate them. So it was definitely a great lesson about love, and compassion, along with learning to not follow mob mentality because of that.
However, this film was definitely decent. I mean it wasn’t bad. Of course, it had quite a few good things to enjoy about it. Still, the film felt more like an Amazing Panda Adventure, or Born To Be Wild type of film, where a human has to get a creature home to its family. Okay, let me clarify, movies like those, Free Willy, and films like those with this type of storyline are almost always really good. On the other hand, however, since we have a mythical type of creature in this case, it would seem as if this film had a little more potential to be better. I mean besides the fact that the Ochi have a hidden place where they live in this film, how does their world work? Why do they come out mainly at night? You know, questions like those. Maybe a critic might be harsh for reasons such as this. Either way, in this case, it seems as if a film like this one seemed to have the potential to be better.
And that’s my review for The Legend Of Ochi. On the one hand, it does have some good things going for it. On the other hand, it would seem that you can tell that in other ways, it could have been better. I would say still see it, but maybe when it’s available On Demand, or someplace like that.
And now, let’s discuss the final chapter of the Star Wars prequel trilogy, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge Of The Sith!
Plot: In the final chapter of the Star Wars prequel trilogy, Anakin (Hayden Christensen) slowly begins his descent to the dark side of the Force in an attempt to save his wife, Padme Amidala (Natalie Portman) from certain death.
Now, it has been said that of the three prequels for Star Wars, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge Of The Sith has been said to be the best of those. So, is that the case, or would this Star Wars Episode III be overrated in that regard? Well, let me put it to you all this way! There is plenty to love about this film. For one, there is probably a great deal of symbolism in this Star Wars film, most notably with the whole deal of Anakin being told like such as that joining the Dark Side would prove to be for his own good, or that the Jedi were evil instead of Palpatine, and things like that. Palpatine/Darth Sidious was also a great representation of an evil person masquerading as an angel of light. And yeah, the Jedi were also excellent representations of all that was, and is good, and right. This Star Wars prequel also does really well with showing how things like fear, anger, and hate, when taken to the extreme, can lead one down really dark roads, while continuing to do what’s right, and managing negative emotions can do just the opposite. Truthfully, if there was a Star Wars prequel, or even film of the franchise, period, that you can see potential Christian parallels with, it would probably be this one, and Star Wars Episode VI: Return Of The Jedi (although I have yet to rewatch that one as well fairly soon to confirm that). As for the acting, it was much better than in Star Wars Episode II: Attack Of The Clones. Sure, with Natalie Portman, and Hayden Christensen, there were times where their acting in their respective roles was just okay. However, especially with Christensen, though his acting sometimes was just alright, he did an overall better job in his role for Anakin Skywalker this time around. I’m not sure if that was because of the filmmakers hearing from the general audience hearing plenty of negative reactions for his acting, and/or some other factors. One way, or another, people will more than likely have better things to say about his acting for this Star Wars installment. There is also amazing action in this film. Whether it’s Obi-Wan, and Anakin’s fight with Count Dooku in the beginning, Obi-Wan’s fight with General Grievous, Yoda’a duel with Darth Sidious, and especially Obi-Wan, and Anakin’s battle with each other (wow, what a passionate fight that was!), it will help the audience enjoy this film even more. The script also was great as well.
If there was anything negative to say about Star Wars Episode III: Revenge Of The Sith, it would be a couple things. One would be that there are certain messages that may not have been the best ones to convey for this film. The other was that the ending might have potentially dragged a little too long. Thankfully, not by much, but still.
And that’s my review for Star Wars Episode III: Revenge Of The Sith. Truth be told, though this installment may be the most sad, and depressing of the franchise (and for obvious reasons), it still did well with serving as a satisfying conclusion to the Star Wars prequel trilogy. The story is mostly well developed, as well as the characters, the acting improves, John Williams’ score is phenomenal, there’s great symbolism, and the action sequences are really, really great to watch. If you haven’t seen this Star Wats film yet, please do! You’ll really enjoy it, despite the tragic tone, I’m sure.
And now, in preparation of the re-release of the third Star Wars film, let’s discuss, and review the second part of this prequel trilogy, Star Wars Episode II: Attack Of The Clones!
Plot: Set ten years after the events of Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, Obi-Wan (Ewan McGregor), and Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) must find the person responsible for the assassination of Senator Amidala (Natalie Portman). Meanwhile, a clone army is being made to help fight with the Republican with the war that’s occurring in the galaxy.
So, how’s this Star Wars film compare to the other two in this prequel trilogy, or even Star Wars trilogy overall? Well, let me put it to you all this way! Though it may be a good installment, it doesn’t have the same magic, or emotional pull that say Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back did back in 1980. However, though that is the case, there are some things that do make this film a fairly strong installment in the Star Wars prequel trilogy.
But before we get to those, let’s first get the negatives out of the way! Well, first of all, some of the world building, and the setup of the story could have been handled better, as well as developed better. I mean it was done fairly well, don’t get me wrong! However, those aspects could have still improved. There were also one, or two plot holes as well. There were also one, or two scenes that might have felt a little too dark, and creepy for a Star Wars movie as well. But honestly, the one thing that for sure kept this film from being a great film was the acting! Okay, okay, hear me out! A good majority of the actors did great in their respective roles, whether it was Samuel L. Jackson, Christopher Lee, Ewan McGregor, and ones like those. Even Natalie Portman, though her acting might not have always been the best in this film, was still very good for her role as Senator Amidala. But the one actor that really killed any possible potential for this film being great was Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker. I’ve heard a lot of people say that his acting was terrible for that role. Truthfully, though he had some highs, like doing a decent job of expressing happiness, and laughter well, an arrogant attitude, and more, overall, he could’ve still either improved on his acting skills, or the filmmakers should have just hired a younger actor with better experience, and could do the role better justice. I mean while you watch Star Wars Episode II: Attack Of The Clones, there are many times where you probably look forward to scenes with Obi-Wan, Count Dooku, or possibly even Senator Padme Amidala, more than those with Anakin.
With all that said, what were the highs of Star Wars Episode II: Attack Of The Clones? Well, there were many actions scenes that were well choreographed. Still, it would probably be action scenes like the Gladiator-like fighting, when Anakin, Padme, and Obi-Wan are fighting alien monsters, them, and the rest of the Jedi fighting evil droids, the battle that occurs across the desert on that same planet, and the fight between Jedi knights Obi-Wan, Anakin, and Yoda, and Sith Lord Count Dooku/Darth Tyrannus, that are the most memorable of the action sequences in this Star Wars installment. Honestly, I still remember that whole section of the film being memorable me when I was a teenager. And the score by John Williams, need I say how awesome it is? Additionally, most of the acting, aside from Hayden Christensen’s being okay, was also great. Christopher Lee was especially great as Dooku. I mean anytime that he’s especially played a villain, whether that be Saruman in the live-action Lord Of The Rings trilogy, or even voicing King Haggard in the 1982 animated film, The Last Unicorn, he knows how to make a deep, powerful, and menacing voice. Star Wars Episodes II, and III are no exceptions. But honestly, probably one of the biggest standouts for Star Wars Episode II is how the filmmakers did a phenomenal job of establishing Anakin’s future turn to the dark side, and as Darth Vader, whether it’s through Anakin’s arrogant attitude, him making comments like that someday he would be the most powerful Jedi ever, and things like those. Finally, it was great to get introduced to some newer characters in this Star Wars film.
And that’s my review for Star Wars Episode II: Attack Of The Clones. Honestly, though not exactly one of the best ones in the franchise, there is still much to enjoy about it. Whether it’s the action particularly that occurs around the middle to end, some of the acting, or other positive elements like those, you’re still bound to enjoy this film for those aspects, if you still have yet to see this particular Star Wars film, then definitely see it. You’ll still enjoy it for the good things in it.
Well, everyone, today, we review the latest of Disney’s live-action/CGI remakes. Sadly, this is one that has seemed to cause much controversy, thanks to some rude comments that main actress Rachel Zegler made a while back about the old animated Snow White film, and other things not related to that. But was all that worth making this film flop? Well, let’s find out by talking about the latest Disney remake, which is simply titled Snow White.
Plot: Due to being stuck in a snowstorm one night, the Good King, and Queen (Hadley Fraser, and Lorena Area, respectively) decide to name their daughter Snow White to honor that particular snowy day. Later on, the Queen dies of an illness, and the King, after hastily marrying an enchantress (Gal Gadot), who is later known as the Evil Queen, disappears, after going on a campaign. After being treated to a scullery maid, and meeting a bandit named Jonathan (Andrew Burnap), can Snow White (Rachel Zegler), along with seven Dwarves (Jeremy Swift, Tituss Burgess, Andrew Barth Feldman, Martin Klebba, Jason Kravits, George Salazar, and Andy Groteleuschen respectively), can Snow White reclaim the Kingdom back from the Evil Wueen, and rebuild it back on what her parents meant it to be in the first place?
Now, putting aside all the controversy that surrounds this film, particularly around the main actress Rachel Zegler, who played Snow White in this film, did this film deserve to get mixed reviews, and a lot of hate from critics, and the public in general, along with not making a whole lot of money back? Well, definitely not! Granted, like with many of Disney’s remakes, there are some scenes in this remake that don’t seem to land as much of an emotional punch, or impact like in this film’s animated counterpart. Still, what this film does, that not nearly as many of the remakes seem to succeed as well in, is making it updated, and adding quite a few things to it, and making it work. The only other times that Disney has seemed to do this, including prequels, and sequels, have been films like Maleficent (2014), Maleficent: Mistress Of Evil (2019), Dumbo (2019), Cinderella (2015), The Jungle Book (2016), and Mufasa: The Lion King, to name a few. So, in what ways does this new Snow White work well? Well, for one, having the Good King, and Queen (yes, we do see Snow White’s biological parents for a bit) in this film, along with the possibly interesting reason that they gave their child her name. Now, could this have possibly been the case in order for Disney to be less woke this time like Disney has seemed to have developed a bad reputation for in recent years? Well, perhaps! You got me! Anyway, many of the characters were well developed as well, whether they were onscreen throughout the film, or were just onscreen for a shorter amount of time. Truth be told, if there was one thing that could be potentially better about this than the Disney animated film, it would be the relationship between Snow White, and a bandit named Jonathan. Yes, you heard that right. This time, instead of a prince, we have a thief named Jonathan. Let me tell you, he was definitely a welcome change for this remake. Even the dwarfs, despite it not being the best idea that they’re all CGI, instead of actual short people being cast as them, were very good. Hey, it was even nice to see a little more development, and growth for the one dwarf, known as Dopey. Then, of course, there is the Evil Queen herself. Well, it was interesting to have her start off as a citizen, and an Enchantress, before she married into the throne. Also definitely an interesting change. As for the character, Snow White herself, even if some people will be upset about some of the things that the actress, who played her, said about the animated Snow White, the character herself was still well done. However, I would say that one of the major highlights of this movie is the music. First of all, not only do we have the majority of the songs from the animated film, with a couple exceptions, but this remake did a great job of updating them, adding new lyrics, and still making them as catchy, and memorable as they were in the animated film. Second, not only do we have those, but we also have new original songs in this remake as well, written by song writing duo Benj Pasek, and Justin Paul. Now, for those of you familiar with them, and have enjoyed songs that they’ve written for other musical shows, or films, I’m sure many of us can agree that they seemed to have become the next Alan Menken, Elton John, and Tim Rice, Phil Collins, you name it. I mean come on, Pasek, and Paul have made many memorable tunes, like “City Of Stars” (La La Land), as well as “The Greatest Show”, and “This Is Me” (both from The Greatest Showman). Well, this new remake of Snow White is surprisingly no exception. Whether it’s songs like the villain song, “All Is Fair”, “Princess Problems”, the love ballad “A Hand Meets A Hand”, or especially the opening number “Where The Good Things Grow”, wow, Benj, and Pasek proved once again that they can make original songs that would be difficult to leave your head. Hard to believe!?! Well, let me put it to you all this way! Originally, because of some remarks that actress Rachel Zegler made about the animated film, as well as some negative political statements that she made along the way, I was on the fence, and felt torn about seeing this Snow White. However, after hearing positive reviews from people like a good friend of mine, along with listening to the soundtrack on YouTube almost a week before the film itself was released, I decided to go ahead, and see this new Snow White film after all. Low, and behold, I did see it about a month later, a couple weeks ago, actually, and the songs were stuck in my head. I even imagined myself doing an Irish dance to the opening number, “Where The Good Things Grow”. Yeah, imagine that! All to say, I wouldn’t be surprised if, had this been the Disney film to be released during Christmas time, and Mufasa: The Lion King moved to a slightly later date, Snow White had performed even somewhat better than it currently has. Oh, and one other thing to mention! It was great to see Disney try to do something newer, and more fresh, while also trying to also stick with some elements that were in the old animated film, as opposed to say making it more of closer shot for shot remake like in more recent years. That is especially since Disney hasn’t done as great of a job of that since 2014’s Maleficent, 2015’s Cinderella, or 2016’s The Jungle Book.
But with me gushing about all these positive elements of Snow White, are there any negative things about it? Well, yeah! For one, some of casting for the bandits that followed Jonathan in this film, some of them probably weren’t the best casting choices. Also, with the casting of the dwarfs, though the CGI on the dwarfs isn’t bad, the film could have still made the better choice of using actual people with dwarfism. As for the storyline, though it was good with adding new material to make it feel newer fresh, it did sometimes also seem to feel like something that might have felt more like it was made for ABC, or Disney Channel, or something like that. Finally, as I also mentioned earlier, there were some moments that could have maybe done better with making an emotional impact just as much, if not more so than in the animated film.
And that’s my review for Disney’s Snow White. Honestly, all the controversy that surrounded this Disney live-action remake, I personally wish that it happened to another remake. I say that not only because of it having a really expensive budget, and this film only grossing a fraction of that back, but also because of what good things are in it, and yet not nearly as many people not willing to give it a chance because of the controversy surrounding it. Once again, I would say please go see it, and give it a chance! You’ll most definitely be surprised, even if some things about it could have made this film better. So, again I say, go see it, if you’re even remotely curious about it, and do so with an open mind!
Everyone, today we review an animated film that was just released by the Christian-themed studio, Angel Studios. Oh, and not just any animated film. It is one that was just was just released around the time of Palm Sunday, and Easter. And wow, what a great time for this film, an adaptation of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, to happen. And yes, definitely a great time to review this film because of that. So now, let’s discuss the one, and only animated film from this studio, The King Of Kings.
Plot: Charles Dickens (Kenneth Branagh), the author of stories such as A Christmas Carol, tells his son, Walter (Roman Griffin Davis) of the account of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
First of all, it is definitely a perfect time for this film to be released, with Easter coming up here shortly. That being said, was this film good? Well, for apparently being the first animated film, from Angel Studios, to be released in theaters, yes, very much so, it is. Honestly, when I first saw the trailers for The King Of Kings I honestly thought that this film might have more of a feel of something like a Veggie Tales with more a TV quality type of story rather than a feel of something good even in a theater setting. However, after hearing many great things about The King Of Kings shortly before, and after this movie was released, I was looking forward to giving this film a shot even more. Well, after seeing it, here’s an example of why one should not judge a movie by its trailer. I mean, yes, this film can feel like it can be more of a kid’s movie at times. However, at other times, even adults will most definitely be glad to have seen this movie as well. First of all, one of the things to enjoy about The King Of Kings is that, even if the film takes liberties, it also does well with remaining as faithful to the account of Jesus as possible. And what’s more, not only are Charles Dickens, and the rest of his family well developed, but so are Jesus, and most of the disciples. The setup of the story was also really good, particularly with using Walter’s love for the story of King Arthur, and tying it with the life, and ministry of Jesus (apparently the story of King Arthur originated from the real account of Jesus). I’m not sure how much of this is true, and accurate with the actual life of Charles Dickens, and his family. Regardless, it was great to see Walter get invested in the life, and ministry of Jesus that his father would tell him about. I mean to see him imagining himself being present with Jesus (kind of like how in shows like Superbook, and The Greatest Adventure: Stories From The Bible, where both series had time travelers actually travel back in time to meet Biblical figures like Adam, and Eve, Moses, David, and Jesus, and witness events that occurred during the time that they each lived), the disciples, and some of the events that were depicted in this film, as well as being sad when hearing of the His Crucifixion, and more, it likely helps make this film all the more enjoyable. Additionally, even if the film doesn’t depict scenes, such as Jesus’ crucifixion, to be as brutal as it actually was (which is what more adult adaptations like The Passion Of The Christ are for), this movie is not afraid to show scenes like that in one capacity, or another. It was also great to see other scenes like Jesus feeding the five thousand, Peter getting out of the boat to walk on the water to meet Jesus, and scenes like those being shown in this film as well. It was also amazing how well this film was able to include some very important moments of Jesus’ life included in this movie. That being said, there were some points that might have felt a little glossed over, and could have maybe been done a little better. Other than that, you can truly tell that the filmmakers were doing their best to make this film well done, and as well depicted as possible. Oh, and did I forget the voice cast in this film? Well, that was really great too. You have Oscar Isaac as Jesus, Mark Hamill as King Herod, Kenneth Branagh as Charles Dickens, Uma Thurman as Catherine Dickens, and other actors, and actresses in their respective roles for this film. I will say definitely interesting choices for voice actors, and actresses, and also really great too. Finally, for this being the first feature-length film to hit theaters, The King Of Kings is overall really well done, and has really great animation. Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if, sometime in the future, the animation of this studio were to potentially rival that of other companies like Disney, and DreamWorks, for example.
And that’s my review for The King Of Kings. Overall, is it bound to be a classic like other Christian-themed films like The Ten Commandments, The Prince Of Egypt, and The Passion Of The Christ? Well, I’m not sure if it will be quite in the same league as films like those. That being said, The King Of Kings is most definitely bound to be a classic in its own right, and tier. People who see this film will not only be glad to have seen this film, but may also consider it a tradition to watch it around Easter in the years to come, or even at other times of the year. Though this film may have felt a little fast paced at one, or two points, The King Of Kings is overall well done, and proof that there are filmmakers out there who invest in their craft to make as good of a film as possible. Hearing brief parallels between King Arthur, and the life of Jesus, seeing scenes of the account of Jesus being depicted as well as possible, and seeing really good animation for this film make it all worthwhile. If you’re looking for a Christian-themed film to see either with a date, with your family as a family outing, or something along those lines, then all the more reason to see it. You will definitely be glad, and pleasantly surprised by how great this film is in the end. So, go see it if you haven’t yet. It will make for a great Easter treat, or even after if you’re not able to see it until after Easter.
Well, everyone, today, we review a film that was based on historical events, similar to a family film by the name of My Penguin Friend (which just came out last year). Well, now, let’s discuss The Penguin Lessons!
Plot: The movie tells about how, in 1976, an English teacher by the name of Tom Michell (Steve Coogan) came yo an exclusive boy’s school by the name of St. George’s College, in Argentina, where he taught, and coached rugby, helped the students learn through the help of a penguin (whom he named Juan Salvador), and of other events that took place in this film.
So, was this film good? Well, it was definitely mostly good. I mean the film did seem to drag for around the first 20-30 minutes, if not more. In addition to that, The Penguin Lessons did seem a little slow in spots at times. What’s even more is that the film did seem a little sad, and depressing at times. Honestly, for those that have seen both The Penguin Lessons, and 2024’s My Penguin Friend (which also had a human, and Penguin as main characters, and was also based on true events), it wouldn’t be surprising if a lot of people were to say that they would probably prefer watching, or rewatching, the latter more than the former.
But enough of the negative things! Let’s talk about the positives now, shall we? Well, it was interesting to hear about some of the political unrest that occurred during this time period. The film also serves as proof as to why traveling to another country alone may not always be the best idea. The movie also serves as a reminder about how being a teacher may take creative methods from time to time. There was also the acting. Steve Coogan especially did a great performance as the English schoolteacher, Tom Michell. Same goes for everyone else in their respective roles. Additionally, it was nice to get to know, and see part of the culture of Argentina. Also, who wouldn’t want to have a penguin for a pet, or maybe even any other animal for that matter, more after watching a film like this one? Finally, the ending was very good, surprising, and, most likely, very uplifting, resulting in what may have been one of the better parts of this film.
And that’s my review for The Penguin Lessons. Though it may not be one of the best films to be based on a true story, it was still a very good film. Even if some people will find themselves wanting to find other films to watch, or even rewatch a little more than this, The Penguin Lessons still has some good things to enjoy, including learning about some of the Argentinian culture, teaching methods, and more. Definitely watch this film at least once, if not more. You’ll definitely have some enjoyment from it to be sure.
Well, everyone, today, we review one of DreamWorks’ earlier animated films that is lesser known, yet known for a few things. One, of course, being that it was the first animated film from the company to star celebrity voices like Brad Pitt (this was before he would go on to voice another character in the 2010 DreamWorks film, Megamind), and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Yet, there is something else that this animated film is known, and, sadly, infamous for as well. That being that this particular animated film was the last DreamWorks traditionally 2D animated film before the company decided to move into making completely computer animated 3D films from there on out, including classics like Shrek 2, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How To Train Your Dragon, and more. So, without further ado, we now review the one, and only Sinbad: Legend Of The Seven Seas.
Plot: After the Eris (Michelle Pfeiffer), the Goddess Of Chaos, frames a pirate named Sinbad (Brad Pitt) for the theft of an important artifact by the name of the Book Of Peace, he then is sentenced to prison, and death. However, Sinbad’s childhood friend, Proteus (Joseph Fiennes), the Prince of the fictional city of Syracuse, offers to take Sinbad’s place in exchange for Sinbad’s freedom, and that Sinbad go retrieve the Book. Now, with the help of his crew, and French ambassador Marina, who is Proteus’ fiancee, can Sinbad successfully retrieve the legendary Book Of Peace from Eris’ realm of Tartarus within the allotted time of ten days?
So, now that we’re talking about this animated film, the question remains, did this film suffer at the box-office back in summer 2003 because of some fierce competition with hits like Legally Blond 2, Pirates Of The Caribbean 1, Finding Nemo, and the like, or was this film just not that great overall? Well, though this film may have some flaws, Sinbad: Legend Of The Seven Seas definitely did deserve more attention overall.
That being said, let’s start with the negatives. First of all, we obviously have a Goddess Of Chaos. But why do we not have a God of Peace in this mythical world? Was the Book Of Peace supposed to serve as a substitute for that? I don’t know, somehow, that probably could have been explained a little better. Additionally, some of Sinbad’s crew could have most likely been a little more fleshed out than they were in the end. Thankfully, a couple of them were, especially Sinbad’s first mate, Kale, and an Italian lookout named Rat. Still, aside from them, there may have been potential to make the rest more memorable. Oh, and there is the main character, Sinbad. Okay, don’t get me wrong! It was nice to see some growth in him throughout the course of this film. But the way that it was handled, let’s just say that it could have definitely been done a little differently. Finally, there were some situations throughout the film that could have either been developed better, or at least been handled better.
And now, for the positive aspects of this particular DreamWorks animated film. First of all, there’s the casting. To start, even if Brad Pitt may sound sort of the same as in many other roles that he’s in, he does a great job as the role of Sinbad himself. Then, there’s of course Catherine Zeta-Jones, Joseph Fiennes, and Michelle Pfeiffer as Marina, Proteus, and The Goddess, Eris, respectively. Then, you have additional roles like Dennis Haysbert, Jim Cummings, and some other voice actors. All of them were really great in their individual, and rather unique roles. Then, there’s the score by Harry Gregson-Williams. Wow, what an amazing score he provided here. I mean he truly did help capture the art, and essence of an adventure type of story with the music that he composed throughout the course of this movie. Truly, he did help capture the mood of nearly every scene that occurred here. In addition to all of this, the character development, aside from some of the side characters, is really good. Granted, when it’s come to some of the relationships, especially the ones that Marina had with both Proteus, and Sinbad, could have maybe been developed, and or handled better in some ways. In most ways, however, even that is well-handled. There’s the villain/villainess, Eris. To begin, talk about a really great, and overall well-developed villain. She’s also well-designed with her art, her realm of Tartarus, and her motives, along with her deviousness, are really great as well. Oh, and did I forget to mention Sinbad’s dog, Spike? He was a fun, and lovable character too. Man, got to love some of his facial expressions at certain points in this film. In addition to these, there’s the animation itself. Well, even if some of the CGI didn’t mesh quite nearly as well with the 2D animation, the 2D animation itself was out of this world. Honestly, it’s because of the beautiful animation here, and the other 2D films that came before this film, that 2D films shall be missed in the DreamWorks company (and many other companies as well). And now, there’s the story itself. Let me tell you, Sinbad: Legend Of The Seven Seas probably may yet be one of the most mature films in the DreamWorks library, and maybe even in mainstream animation period. Honestly, had it not been for aspects such as having facial expressions for animals, or having CGI monsters in this film, this is one of those animated movies that most likely could have been a live-action one. Considering that this came out the same summer as the first Pirates Of The Caribbean movie, while Sinbad: Legend Of The Seven Seas may not be quite as good as that film, the story is definitely really good to the point that it should have made way more than the $26 million that it made domestically. I mean maybe somewhere between $100-200 million if not more. Why? Because not only is this one of the more mature Dreamworks animated films out there, but it also breaks some cliches in quite a few aspects, particularly with a situation that may be considered a twist, and occurs near the end the end of the film. Now, am I saying that kids won’t enjoy this film? Absolutely not! Like many animated films, especially those that come from companies like DreamWorks, and Disney, all demographics, be it kids, teens, and/or adults, are bound to love this film from beginning to end. And plus, if people loved Pirates Of The Caribbean, chances are people would probably love Sinbad: Legend Of The Seven Seas, if they gave it a chance as well. Finally, the script is mostly, if not fully brilliant as well.
And that’s my review for Sinbad: Legend Of The Seven Seas. Despite some flaws, this movie most definitely deserves more recognition than it has been getting for these past 20+ years. The characters are mostly great, it’s funny, and the animation is gorgeous, the music is great, and it is kore mature than your typical kids/family film. It’s just a shame that because this film flopped, along with 2000’s The Road To El Dorado, and, to a degree, Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron (though that one at least was a modest success), DreamWorks decided to move entirely into making computer-animated films. Truthfully, it’s films like Sinbad, and the other two, along with The Prince Of Egypt, that also deserve just as much recognition, if not more so than those like Kung Fu Panda, Shrek, and the like. If you want a fun adventure film that’s put in in the form of animation, some fun characters, and a film that clearly had plenty of heart put into it, then all the more reason to see Sinbad: Legend Of The Seven Seas. I’m sure you’ll be impressed, and surprised in the end. Heck, you might find yourself wanting to rewatch it a little more than many other 2D animated films. But you just be the judge of that, and see what you think!
Ladies, and gentlemen, for this review, and the one after this one, we will be discussing a film from the world of DreamWorks Animation. Starting with this one, we will talk about the latest one in the library. So, without further ado, let’s discuss Dog Man.
Plot: After a dog’s head is down on the body of a human being following an explosion, it is up to whom they now call Dog Man to stop an evil cat named Petey (Pete Davidson) from bringing ruin, and destruction on the fictional Okay City.
Well, Dog Man is a very funny film, I’ll give it that. However, I’m not sure that it’s quite one of DreamWorks’ best films. It’s still good, make no mistake. I mean, for one, you can tell that a lot of heart went into the film. I mean with the relationships that main character Dog Man has with characters like Lil’ Petey, who is Petey’s son, and some of the officers, for instance, those are handled really well. It was also cool to have a DreamWorks come out with a film that had comic book style of animation, the first to do so since 2017’s Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie. Speaking of the animation, the animation is also really nice, and pretty at times, especially when there’s water, particularly at night time, the blue sky, the moon shining on the river, and things like that. There was also some really cool action involved as well. It’s almost like you have a Spider-Man vs. Green Goblin, Venom, or any other villain type of story, but with regular cops, and criminals being involved. There was also a nice score by Tom Howe as well. Then, there are some of the characters. You got Dog Man, Petey the cat villain, a fish villain, and the Police Chief, who was probably the funniest of them all. Oh, and Petey, let’s just say that you might find yourself interested to see the kinds of things that his character goes through.
In spite of all these good things, the film also suffers from having a few cliches. Okay, I get that a lot of films do have cliches. But here, for some reason, the ones that this film had kind of felt out of place, and almost like they were added in at the last minute. There were also some additional things like maybe additional characters, and things like that probably made the movie feel a little too weird. Finally, it wouldn’t be surprising that even if the man-dog hybrid was supposed to be a creative element for this film, there would still be people that might take issue with that aspect of this movie as well, especially with how Dog Man came about in the first place.
And that’s my review for Dog Man. It is still a very good film, make no mistake. Though this movie does suffer from cliches that feel out of place, certain concepts for this film, and more, the pros for this movie most certainly outweigh the bad. This is most definitely the case with all the comedic moments that come about in this film. And trust me, there are quite a few of those, and it’ll make you enjoy this film all the more. If you’re wanting an animated film from DreamWorks that’s really funny, and fun overall, I would say definitely give this film a shot. Even if this film may not be quite one of DreamWorks’ best films, it is still worth seeing for things like the comedy, the heartfelt moments, and more. So go see it, and see what you think!
Matthew’s Animated & Live-Action Movie Reviews 