Well, everyone, today, we now review the sequel to the very Disney/Pixar film that will be reaching its 10-year anniversary next year. Now that we’ve discussed 2015’s Inside Out , let’s discuss it’s sequel, Inside Out 2.

Plot: Two years after moving to San Francisco, Riley Anderson (Kensington Tallman), now a teenager, gets an opportunity to go to hockey camp, along with her friends, Bree (Sumayyah Nuriddin-Green), and Grace (Grace Lu). Not only that, but she also gets to play with a popular hockey Nick’e from another high school by the name of Val Ortiz (Lilimar). While at the camp, the question remains, will Riley continue to thrive in hockey? Will she continue to maintain her friendship with her two best friends, while making new ones with Val, and her team? How will things turn out for Riley in the end?

As we know, Inside Out 2 has been breaking records since being released a month to month and a a half ago. That being said, has it been worth it, or has this new Disney/Pixar film become overhyped? Well, I will just tell you all this, I went into this sequel not having too high of expectations, especially with most of Disney’s films not being quite the best these days, only to come out of this film feeling wowed, and overly surprised. Inside Out 2 is truly a surprise from beginning to end. With that said, is Disney back in the game yet? I won’t say one way, or another yet. However, I will say that after seeing Inside Out 2, let’s just say that part of me is now feeling a little more hopeful that some of Disney’s upcoming films like Moana 2, the CGI prequel to The Lion King, Mufasa: The Lion King, and next year’s Disney/Pixar film, Elio, will probably be better films than we might have originally hoped as of these days. But again, we’ll have to see, eh? But now, let’s return to Inside Out 2, shall we? So what is it about this film that has made it really popular for the past month and a half? Well, for one, things like the world building of Riley’s mind, and her character, overall, being expanded upon. I will also say that I watched my friend, the Lawn Gnome on YouTube. Basically, he’s a YouTuber who has video segments on his channel, including a segment called Out Of The Vault. That segment started off with him just reviewing a film Walt Disney Animation Studios once a month, which eventually turned whim reviewing either a a film from that library, or a Studio Ghibli film, or a Disney/Pixar film once a month. For those of you interested in such videos, you should go check it out. Anyway, something that he pointed out in that video was that we get to see more of the character of Riley herself in this sequel. You know what? He makes a good point, because we really do. Well, not to say that Riley wasn’t well developed in the first film, because she was. Still, yeah, it’s possible that the emotion characters like Joy, and Sadness had a little more of the spotlight in the first film. In this sequel, however, even though we get new emotions this time around like Ennui (which apparently means boredom), Embarrassment, Jealousy, and especially Anxiety, who really seemed to play a major role for Riley in this sequel, not only do we get to see those emotions developed, along with more development for Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust as well, but we also get also get to have more scenes with Riley herself as well. Let me just tell you all that it works brilliantly well, and all within an hour and a a half. What a miracle, considering that having multiple side/supporting characters in an animated film that has only that long of a running period hasn’t always seemed to work quite nearly as well as one would like. Well, again, in this case, it did. What’s more is that this movie tackles some very mature topics, especially for things that teenagers go through, and it seems to do that better than say 2022’s Turning Red (which, of course, was also done by Disney/Pixar) did. As for things like the score, even though we had a different composer this time, with Andrea Datzman, instead of Michael Giacchino, it was still nice to see some of his score used from the first film, and incorporated into this one. The animation was also great, maybe just as good, if not better than the first Inside Out. However, what this film does beautifully is tackle its topics well. I was surprised by how beautifully it all was done. This film did an excellent job of tackling themes of jealousy, comparing oneself (someone recently pointed out how comparison is the thief of joy), anxiety, and how people will often think that they’re not good enough at things in life, or that someone is not good enough as a person period. And it was executed in a really creative way, specifically in the new emotion character, Anxiety. That begs the question, does Anxiety seem to serve as more a villain, or anti-heroine in this film? Definitely just something good to consider, that’s for sure. Because of this, even if non-Christians may not see some potential underlying Christian undertones (or, might they, miraculously?), Christians probably will. Both Inside Out, and Inside Out 2 could possibly serve as modern day parables (and I bring up that term because of the fact that Jesus spoke in parables several times while on Earth, and when the four Gospels of the New Testament were being recorded). Now, am I saying that the writers of both films were Christians? Well, no, but only God knows for sure. Even so, there are plenty elements, and themes from Inside Out 2 to be taken from a Christian point of view, questions that can be asked with aspects of this film, and more. Because of all this, I can see why Inside Out 2 may yet reach near the box office numbers of films like Avatar 1, if not quite to that point.

And that’s my review for Disney/Pixar’s Inside Out 2. There is no doubt that kids will for sure love this film for its creative characters like the emotions, the humor, and more. However, teenagers, and adults, especially the latter demographic, will enjoy it for its relatability to main character, Riley, its complex themes, and more. Inside Out 2 is definitely a great film for having great character development, a surprisingly well-written story, great animation, and themes of this film that can be seen through a Christian lenses (which, Christians will likely appreciate that aspect more than non-Christians, but still). So, if you haven’t seen Inside Out 2, definitely do so. This is one of those rare films that Christians should take a non-Christian friend, or two, or more, and then maybe discuss it with them afterwards. Yeah, probably saying a lot, yes? Either way, see Inside Out 2, see if you like it just as much, if not more, than the first film, and yeah, see what you think! I can guarantee that you’ll have a blast with this sequel to one degree, or another either way.

Final Grade: A+

Everyone, today, in honor of the newest Disney/Pixar sequel being released, we review its predecessor that will be reaching its 10-year anniversary next year. The one, and only, Inside Out!

Plot: When Riley (Kaitlyn Dias), and her parents (Diane Lane, Kyle MacLachlan) move from a small town in Minnesota to San Francisco, California, Riley’s in her head that consist of Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Mindy Kaling), and Fear (Bill Hader) begin to try to work in her head to try to make her feel different emotions about the move. However, Joy is determined to help make Riley feel joyful, and happy about the situation. Now, will Riley end up feeling happy the whole time, or will all the other emotions end up going to her head, and make her feel mixed emotions about leaving Minnesota, and going to California?

Based on the above description, it may sound like this is a movie in which a human is being operated like a robot by characters in her head that are emotions, yes? Well, though it may potentially come off that way on the surface, it’s more that this movie shows, in a surprisingly creative way, that humans have emotions, be it happiness, sadness, you name it. Director Pete Doctor makes the decision to make each of these emotions into characters. And wow, does it work beautifully. Not only is this film brilliantly executed, but it is probably one of the most well-written films in the Disney/Pixar library. I mean it does well with balancing out its happy moments, it’s more sad, and serious moments, and things like that. The world building is also memorable with there being islands in Riley’s head like Goofball Island, Family Island, you name it. Each emotion also has a personality, besides the fact that Joy tries to be the joyful one all the time, Disgust the same thing, and more. The emotion characters are also really hilarious at times, especially Anger, who , ironically, may yet be one of most hilarious of the other emotion characters. The humans are also really great characters too, especially Riley herself. It was also great to catch glimpses here, and there, of emotion characters in the heads of other humans, such as Riley’s parents, for example. One other thing in regard to the characters is that some secondary characters, like Bing Bong, were memorable too. It was also great to see film director Pete Doctor, and score composer Michael Giacchino working together for another Disney/Pixar film after doing so six years before with Up. Speaking of which, isn’t it interesting that both films end up up covering mature themes, while also having a lighthearted side to each of them as well? The animation is also gorgeous, especially when we get to see the inside of other people’s heads, especially Riley’s. But really, what makes Inside Out stand out from many of Disney/Pixar’s entries, are the mature subjects, particularly the whole deal of having to cope with joy, pain, and so much more either at the same time, or at various moments in life. It’s also interesting to see a character like Joy act like both a heroine, and an anti-heroine. Yeah, don’t believe me!?! Let’s just say that you’d be surprised by how her character is handled at certain points in this film. Anyway, Inside Out can serve as both a fable, and metaphor to real life. See, as I’m sure many of us know, many of us, especially as Christians, seem to think that we need to try to be joyful, and act like we’re okay every single moment of every single day when, in reality, we may sometimes feel down, feel brokenhearted, and things like those. First of all, I like how true Pastors have learned to counter that argument, and it’s good that this movie countered that argument in very creative ways. However, what really makes this movie be a classic film is how each character, be it human ones, or even the the emotion characters themselves, learn how to truly grow, and mature physically, and especially emotionally as characters, characters like Riley, Joy, and Sadness in particular. Finally, this film also serves as an excellent reminder that there truly is a time to be happy, and joyful, a time to be sad, a time to be angry, you name it.

And that’s my review for Inside Out. Yes, it may balance out both its comedic moments, and its dramatic ones. Still, it covers some heavy subjects while also doing a great job of making it a fun film for kids in some ways, as well as teens, and adults in other ways. Truly, there will be something for any person at any age to enjoy in Inside Out. So, if you haven’t seen Inside Out, then know that it is one of those films that is for sure a must see. And if you find that somewhat hard to believe simply because this is an animated film, then trust me when I say that by the end, you’ll be pleasantly surprised, and may most likely find yourself than some of Pixar’s films that came out prior to it, and likely even the ones that were released after it. For reasons such as these, I can see why it snagged the Oscar for Best Animated Feature that following winter, or spring, in 2016. All to say, if you still have yet to see this Disney/Pixar film, known as Inside Out, 9-10 years later, then make it a point to see it ASAP, and see what you think!

Final Grade: A+

Well, everyone, today, we review an animated film that was newly released on Memorial Day weekend of this year. I’m sorry it has taken me this long to finally see, and review this film! Still, better late than never, right? Anyway, let’s talk about the newest adaptation of a famous orange cartoon cat that has been beloved by many for many, many years. Presenting to you all my review of The Garfield Movie!

Plot: When Vic, the father of Garfield (voiced by Samuel L. Jackson, and Chris Pratt respectively) returns to Garfield’s life when he becomes older, it turns out that it’s because he wants his son to help him out with a heist that could pay off a debt that he owes to a ruthless female Persian cat named Jinx (Hannah Waddingham). Now roped into dangerous action, can Vic, Garfield, and Garfield’s dog friend, Odie (Harvey Guillen) successfully do so before their deadline is up?

Now, as I’m sure many of us know, The Garfield Movie has had mostly negative reviews. In fact, it only holds a 37% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. With that said, does this film deserve such a rating? Well, let me put it to you all this way. It may not be one of the best animated films out there. However, that doesn’t mean that The Garfield Movie deserved such a low score. Sure, a film like Chicken Little (which was also directed by Mark Dindal, who also directed not only this film, but also other animated films like Cats Don’t Dance, and The Emperor’s New Groove) may have deserved a low score, even if it was decent. But this film, it did not deserve a low score such as 37%. Maybe somewhere between 60-70, or even 80%. That all being said, did the professional critics have some points? Sure. For one, there was a subplot in this film that felt a little forced in, and may have caused this film to not be as memorable. Also, some of the secondary characters, minus Garfield himself, and some of the other main characters, though likable enough, probably weren’t all that memorable. Additionally, there were some character arcs that, though they worked, seemed a little rushed, especially ones that occurred near the end. Finally, there were a couple plot holes in this Garfield movie as well.

But were there good things in this movie? Absolutely. Like what, you may be wondering? Well, there was the animation. Sure, the animation might have felt a little cheap at times in this film. Still, for what it was, the final product was very good. Next, there were the main characters, notably Garfield being voiced by Chris Pratt. Personally, I thought his role for Garfield in this film was a little better than when he voiced say Mario in last year’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Not that that one wasn’t good. It’s just that Pratt did a more phenomenal job here. John, Garfield’s owner was also really cool, along with the beagle, Odie, and Samuel L. Jackson as Vick, Garfield’s father. But one of the major highlights for this film is Hannah Waddingham as the villainous female Persian cat, Jinx. Wow, let’s just say that Dindal truly knows how to make some of the most memorable villains, particularly in family films. I mean much like Yzma in The Emperor’s New Groove, Jinx is a hilariously evil villain. She’s cunning, and devious, but also brings out some really hilarious lines, and moments to the point that you might need to choose which ones are the more memorable moments from her. Both villains are ruthless, but are successful in being hilarious as well. Truthfully, I can’t help but wonder if maybe Dindal, and the team took inspiration from the villain Yzma in The Emperor’s New Groove, when making The Garfield Movie. Jinx’s dog henchmen, Roland, and Nolan, were also hilarious as well. And as for John Debney’s score, let’s just say that it’s interesting how Debney, and Mark Dindal have seemed to collaborate on quite a few family film projects, especially The Emperor’s New Groove, Chicken Little, and The Garfield Movie. Still, one of the major highlights of The Garfield Movie is the comedy. Wow, if one were to pick one major reason as to why critics were probably a little too harsh on this film, it would be that this movie is filled with comedy from beginning to end. Yeah, if you loved the comedy in some of Dindal’s other films like The Emperor’s New Groove, then I can guarantee that you’ll also find yourself laughing so hard from beginning to end in The Garfield Movie as well. Yes, it was really a scene that referenced a rather certain popular film near the end that was the most memorable comedic moment of them all. Even so, the comedy in this movie will give you all the more reason to want to stay, and see what happens near the end. Finally, the ending was good, and heartwarming.

And that’s my review for The Garfield Movie. If you haven’t seen this movie, then please do. If you see it, and choose to find a reason to enjoy it, enjoy it for it’s comedy. That alone helps keep the audience engaged from beginning to end. Yes, there are other major highlights for this film, like seeing Garfield himself onscreen, Jinx’s character that is portrayed beautifully by Hannah Waddingham, and so much more. This movie may feel more like a kid’s film than a family one. Even so, adults will still enjoy it for it being a Garfield movie, the film’s comedy, and things like that. So, definitely see this film, and see what you think!

Final Grade: B

Well, everyone, today, we review what would happen to be one of the first live-action films, to be released by Disney in a long while, that ends up being based on actual events in history. Man, if only Disney could for sure try to make more movies like that for a while, if nothing else! Anyway, let’s discuss Young Woman And The Sea, which stars Daisy Ridley as main character Trudy Ederle.

Plot: The movie centers around Trudy Ederle (played by Daisy Ridley in this film). It chronicles her journey to becoming the first female to swim the English Channel, and all the obstacles that she had to overcome to get to that point.

Wow, I’ll say it again, definitely great to see Disney making a more original story, and one that’s based on actual events at that. So, did this film turn out for the best? Well, yeah, very much so. First of all, Young Woman And The Sea is truly inspirational. To see a female like Trudy Ederle do whatever it took to defy all possible odds, and achieve the impossible, how many of us nowadays have truly done what needed to be done without calling it quits? Much like Boys In The Boat, and the lessons that people could learn from that one, similar ones can be taken from this film, and maybe even more. What’s more is that Daisy Ridley did a phenomenal as main character Trudy Ederle. Truthfully, Ederle may yet be one of Daisy Ridley’s better performances in the films that she’s been in. Additionally, for lessons that could be taken from Young Woman And The Sea, after watching this film, people may end up taking away all kinds of lessons from watching this film, including ones like that hard work truly pays off, that playing it safe is almost never a good thing to do, and that it’s never good to give up even when things go wrong in different scenarios. Also, it was interesting to witness how difficult life was for some people back during this period of time, including for people like of Trudy, and her family. Not to mention that some people, especially people who were poor, were willing to do whatever it took to have a better life, including women being willing to go through an arranged marriage like people in the Jewish culture, for instance. Wow, that shouldn’t be surprising, right? Well, you got me! It was also great to learn about what to either to eat, and drink, or what items not to have when going through training, or actual Olympic type sports period. But, most importantly, it was amazing to see how Trudy was truly willing to accomplish her goals, no matter the hardships that stood in her way. I’m not sure how much of her story was true in this film, and/or how much of it was dramatized. Either way, this film is truly a film about strength, courage, and, likely, even faith that things will turn around the better. Oh, and there’s also the additional lesson that miracles do still happen. Won’t go I to details on how that was portrayed in this film, but it was great the way it was handled. In addition to all of these, did I forget to mention Ameilia Warner’s score for this movie? First off, Warner truly did know how to capture the time period with this movie. Her music had all kinds of emotions, from depressing, to breathtaking, to then being epic, and then to being calm, and peaceful as well. Disney most definitely made a great choice with choosing her for composer this time around. Finally, not only Trudy, but the rest of the characters were well established, and well-written as well.

And that’s my review for Young Woman And The Sea. If you haven’t seen this film, I would highly recommend it. Either because of there not being a whole lot of advertisement for it, or some other reason, this film hasn’t been very popular at the box office. Well, Young Woman And The Sea deserved to perform so much better than it did in the end. It has excellent performances, especially by Daisy Ridley, has some valuable lessons to take away, and is an overall enjoyable experience. If you want to know more about the history of this person, then seeing this movie, and reading books about her life will be helpful, and likely even inspirational as well. Definitely see Young Woman And The Sea, if you haven’t yet. It is definitely one you won’t want to miss. In this case, please don’t let its low box office performance determine your decision to see it, or not see it. You will be engaged, and enjoy the swimming adventures with Trudy Ederle.

Final Grade: A+

Well, everyone, today, we review a film that was not only based on a true story, but also was made by the somewhat newer film company, Angel Studios, the very company that has distributed the show known as The Chosen, and films like Sound Of Freedom. I present to you all my review of the one, and only, Sight, which stars Terry Chen, Greg Kinnear, and more.

Plot: The movie tells the true story of a Chinese immigrant named Dr. Ming Wang (Terry Chan), who started with his eye surgery business in Denver, Colorado, and then relocated his business to Nashville, Tennessee. It then shows how he, and his assistant, Dr. Misha Bartnovsky (Greg Kinnear) would set out to take the necessary steps to perform eye surgery on a blind orphan girl from India. Did their plan succeed, and prove miraculous in the end?

Okay, with other movies, such as Sound Of Freedom, being made by Angel Studios, and being really successful, why has a film like Sight not been even remotely as successful as that one? Was Sight not advertised enough? Did movies that were released the same weekend as this film, like Furiosa: A Mad Max Story, and The Garfield Movie, give this film a run for its money? Or, here’s a fun one, has the secular society in the U.S., and around the world, been successfully bad-mouthing Christian film companies, like Angel Studios, and been getting less, and less Christians to see movies like this one? Honestly, you got me on any of those reasons, and maybe other speculations. One way, or the other, Sight is yet another film that deserves to be seen, and in theaters at that. This film is incredible from beginning to end. First of all, witnessing main character Dr. Ming Wang’s journey from China to America, as well as his path to becoming a doctor, and more, you will be glad to hear about all that he went through. Not only that, but you will also probably be surprised to observe all that Dr. Ming Wang had to overcome when helping himself, his family, and other people overall. Not to mention the lessons that Dr. Ming Wang had to learn, and likely still has yet to learn, along the way during his time of being a doctor. will also enjoy the characters overall. Sure, it is Dr. Ming Wang, his family, and his work assistant, Dr. Misha Bartnovsky, that will probably be the most likable of all the characters. Still, the supporting ones also deserve recognition as well. Additionally, this movie ends up teaching some really valuable lessons, including ones such as learning to be content, and joyful even in difficult situations, not being egocentric, and/or even prideful, and, most importantly, giving glory to God in all situations. There’s also the lesson about not giving up in life, even when things in your life may go wrong, or seem impossible overall. Finally, when the credits roll, do not leave the theater right away. The reason being is that some of the actual people that were portrayed in this film get to speak as well, and have some really great things to say.

And that’s my review for Sight. Truly, it is a film that deserves much more recognition, and should be making more money. Much like Sound Of Freedom, the God’s Not Dead films, and so many other faith-based films, Sight is a film worth seeing. Much like many of those films, this is a movie that will make even the non-believer probably want to know more about God, and His Ways, and even help current Christians want to deepen their faith in Him even more. There is also much to take away from this movie as well. Definitely see Sight, if you haven’t yet. Not only is it a great Christian film that is based on a true story, but is also really good at showing real life, helps teach some really valuable lessons, and so much more. Go see it, and see what you think!

Final Grade: A+

Ladies, and gentlemen, now that I finished up watching, and reviewing the set of Planet Of The Apes movies that were released from 2011 through this year, 2024, we now review a more family-oriented movie that was just released about a month ago. This new film includes the voices of Steve Carrell, Emily Blunt, Phoebe-Waller Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr., as well as the actor that play human characters in this film such as Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski (who also directed this film), and newcomer Carley Fleming. Presenting to you all my review of the new family film, IF!

Plot: 12-year-old Bea (Caley Fleming) moves into the apartment of grandmother (Fiona Shaw) in Mew York City, while her father (John Krasinski) waits for open heart surgery. One night, while there, she notices a creature roaming around the apartment complex she is at. When she eventually finds it, and finds a human living there, she discovers that the neighbor’s name is Cal (Ryan Reynolds), and that he’s sheltering a whole group of creatures called IFs (imaginary friends). The IFs are creatures that were imagined by other children, but were forgotten once those kids grew up. Now, can Bea, and Cal find new children for the IFs to become attached to before each creature becomes forgotten for good?

Well, the one thing that keeps this film from perfection is that the film may drag a little at times, particularly around the beginning, and maybe even part of the middle as well. Aside from that criticism, IF, which was directed by John Krasinski (whom, I’m sure many of us know as the actor that played Jim Halpert in the show, The Office), is really well done. After seeing the previews, I was expecting a film that seemed to act like a Muppets wannabe type of film. However, what we instead get is a surprisingly very deep, and mature story that both kids, and adults can relate to very much. IF tackles themes of loss, imagination, love, caring for others, and so much more. And what’s more, can we please be grateful for yet another film that has a more original story, as those kinds have started to diminish slowly, but surely? Seriously! Next, there are the characters! The humans, most notably Bea, and Cal, are really likable. The IF characters are also really well memorable. I mean to have Steve Carrell voicing the one called Blue, or Phoebe Waller-Bridge playing Blossom, the butterfly-like character, or even Emily Blunt voicing a unicorn character, the filmmakers chose wisely for the actors, and actresses that played each, and every single one of these characters. Also, the fact that John Krasinski made this film for his kids, that even shows how well he tried to make this film. The CGI on the IF characters was also well done. It not be quite the best, but the CGI designers still did well with designing the characters nonetheless. Same goes for the backgrounds, the cinematography, and more. Additionally, the music was great too. It is interesting to know that Mandy Moore did the choreography for the dance scenes that occurred in this film. Speaking of music, Michael Giacchino returns to yet another family film, and compose the score for this film. Okay, is it just me, or has Giacchino been known to score for family films that seem to have more mature family films? I mean if you think about it, he also scored for family films like Up, Inside Out, Coco, and even Zootopia to name a few. He sure knows how to make the perfect music for films that are family-oriented, and comedic, and yet have a little more serious tone. IF is no exception. In addition to all of this, the characters end up growing/maturing over the course of this film, and having to learn some very important lessons over the course of this film. This is especially true for characters such as Bea, her grandmother, her father, and more. Much can be taken from those characters, and this film overall because of that. What’s more is that IF is one of those films that will truly pull at your heartstrings, and your emotions overall. Yes, there is comedy. A great deal of comedy does accompany this film. It’s just that this film can be sad at times too. Finally, without hopefully giving anything away, IF has some surprises that are saved for near the end of the film. Again, I’ll leave it at that.

And that’s my review for IF. It is a creative film that deserves more attention. Even if mixed, or negative reviews have kept you from seeing this film, definitely take those arguments with a grain of salt, and see this film for yourself. If you want an original story with mature themes, and one that both children, and adults are going to enjoy, then all the more reason to see IF. By the end, you’ll be glad that you saw this film. You’ll also advise others to not judge a movie by its trailer after that as well. So, again, see this film, and see what you think!

Final Grade: A

And now, everyone, it is time for us to review the very Planet Of The Apes film that led me to binge watch at least the set that has gone from 2011, and up to this present point. That being said, let’s discuss Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes.

Plot: Many years after the reign of Caesar, a young ape from a falconry-practicing ape tribe named Noa (Owen Teague) goes on a journey in which he meets one of the fewer humans, and begins to question his beliefs about what he was told about the past in regards to the bond between apes, and humans. After a raid occurs, in which Noa’s ape clan is either killed, or taken prisoner to a beachfront settlement outside of a human vault, Noa is joined by an orangutan named Raka (Peter Macon), and a human named Mae (Freya Allan), as he makes his way to this fort on the coast. As they make this journey, the question remains, will Noa still be able to make the right choices along the way, and still preserve the remaining apes, and humans that still exist?

Well, the questions remains, did we need an additional Planet Of The Apes film for this particular reboot of the franchise? I mean with how things ended at the end of War Of The Planet Of The Apes, was this newer one necessary? Well, maybe not. However, unlike say a sequel like Toy Story 4, which I’m sure many of us can agree was most definitely an unnecessary sequel, Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes has quite a few elements that still make it interesting, and worthwhile anyway. I mean the world building, whether it is having Noa, and his tribe having falcons as pets, as well as guides, having awesome visuals, a really cool villain around the middle to end of the film, and having some very symbolic elements to go along with this particular Planet Of The Apes film, really do make you interested in seeing the newer characters, and wanting to go on more of their journey with them. The relationship between Noa, an orangutan named Raka, and a human named Mae, was also really well-established. Strangely enough, you’ll probably find yourself surprised by how the relationship for that trio starts off, and then progresses throughout the course of this movie. The other characters are also really memorable, especially the villain, who is the leader of an ape kingdom that resides on the coast in this film. But one of the major highlights for Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes is how this film makes parallels to things in real life. One of the most notable areas in which this is the case is how you have some of the apes who hold to the good teachings of ape founder Caesar, while you have others who make alternate versions of Caesar’s teachings. Yeah, for those of you who are Christians out there, and have seen this film, is it just me, or did that aspect remind you of how, in real life, there are Pastors who preach the true Gospel of Jesus Christ, while there are also those that are false teachers, and will do anything to alternate the Gospel, teach things that weren’t in the Bible in the first place, you name it? Maybe I was reading into this aspect a little much, but probably still something to think about, you know? As for the climax, without hopefully giving anything away, let’s just say that the climax ends up being really interesting, engaging, and very strong. Finally, the story is strong, and is memorable enough to make you want more, despite this film having a whole new set of characters.

But are there any negatives for Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes? Well, the one downside for this film is that the way things ended between certain characters around the end of the film. I won’t go into detail as to the conversations that ended, or how they went down in this film. However, let’s just say that the way that the situation was handled in this movie could have probably been handled a little better than it was in the end.

And that’s my review for Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes. Though this one may have a newer set of characters, they are still fun, likable, and, overall, are characters that you’ll probably want to go on journeys with again. If you haven’t seen Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes. Though the characters in the past few films before this one were missed, at least this sequel did its best to connect with the previous few Planet Of The Apes movies. Definitely make a point to see Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes. You will definitely have a great time with it.

Final Grade: A

And now, we near the end of this particular reboot of the Planet Of The Apes franchise, as we now have just this one, and Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes. Today, let’s discuss War For The Planet Of The Apes!

Plot: Two years following the events of the previous film, Caesar’s ape tribe gets massacred, and the surviving ones, including Caesar’s advisor, Maurice (Karin Konoval), are taken captive to a prison war camp that’s run by Colonel Wesley (Woody Harrelson). Now, can Caesar (Andy Serkis) rescue the surviving apes from captivity, and bring them to a paradise oasis?

Well, here is one of the rare to fewer examples of a franchise that, for the most part, ends up getting g better. War For The Planet Of The Apes is a good example of how to do a continuation, if not have a conclusion, of a series. The stakes were raised higher this time in terms of having the characters well developed, including the newer ones. I mean even the newer young girl, whose name is Nova, and happens to be mute, and follows some of the main ape characters on a quest at one point, ends up being a memorable character. Colonel Wesley was also a great villain as well. Plus, how could you go wrong with someone like Woody Harrelson playing someone like him, especially for one, as great of an actor as he is, and two, how he ends up realizing the kind of harm that putting pesticides in plants has caused? But beside the point! The visuals are also really great. What’s more is that Caesar, in spite of what had happened to his family, and the majority of his tribe overall, still recognized that there was still good in humanity, and learned to still have a loving, and humble attitude. Because of this, I think many of us could learn from a fictional character like him in this film, and in the previous films before this one. And another thing! How could you not love the score by Michael Giacchino? Additionally, the fortress that has some of the apes prisoner in is also really well-designed. Truthfully, I think the facility was inspired by the concentration prison camps that Adolf Hitler, and the Nazis had Jews imprisoned during WWII.what’s kore is that not only was Colonel Wesley a fantastic villain in this franchise, but he served as a great example of having similarities to historical figures like Hitler, and his army having parallels to those of the Nazis. The storyline, overall, especially when it came to around the apes being imprisoned, and the climax that occurs around the middle to end of the film, seemed to be very much inspired by the events of WWII. Finally, had Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes not been released, this might have felt like a bittersweet, but also satisfying conclusion to this reboot of this particular franchise.

As far as downsides for this film, and sequel go, well, there were one, or two characters that felt a little underdeveloped, most notably with one who had this arc that came rather out of the blue without any buildup to it, and things like that.

And that’s my review for War For The Planet Of The Apes. Honestly, with this one being a very good grand finale, I’m not sure a fourth film was necessary. Still, we’ll find out soon. Anyway, this film has a lot of heart to it, the development of the story was really great, for the most part, and the ending, let’s just say can potentially feel both bittersweet, and satisfying at the same time. Honestly, if you have found yourself enjoying these newer Planet Of The Apes movie, but haven’t seen this one for some reason, I would definitely recommend it. You’d be surprised, I’m sure. So yeah, see this Planet Of The Apes film, and see what you think!

Final Grade: A

And now, time for Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes!

Plot: Ten years after the Simian Flu pandemic wiped out all but one in 500 of the human population that was immune to the disease, a group of humans, including Malcolm (Jason Clarke), and a small group of humans that successfully bond with Caesar (Andy Serkis), who is now the leader of the newer genetically enhanced ape population. When Koba (Toby Kebbell), Caesar’s second-in-command, begins to grow resilient towards humans after he was abused by humans at the Gensys lab, can Caesar successfully allow his new human friends to work on a generator that will likely help bring power to the mini human population in the area?

Okay, now, here is an example of how you do a sequel, and mostly, if not fully, right. First of all, because this sequel had a longer running time than the previous film, 25 minutes longer, to be exact, this film had more room to breathe in terms of developing the world more, developing the characters much more, and even conflicts much more. Even the enmity between Caesar, and Koba was handled really well. Same goes for the ape population overall. Honestly, even though the human characters are newer ones, you really care for them, along with all the ape characters. I wouldn’t be surprised if maybe part of why this film was longer than the previous film was because a lot of other people might have thought the first film to be a little too short. Well, thankfully, that was not the case this time around. It truly deserved to be longer. Oh, and the filmmakers did a phenomenal job of making Koba villainous, and menacing. His face seemed to look a little like that of Scar from The Lion King. Additionally, Caesar served as a great example of a great leader. I mean being willing to fight against those who tried to wreck his leadership, no matter how difficult that would have been for him, giving some of the humans a chance, particularly when one of them helps a family member of his out, and more. I don’t recall this much character development even from him in the first film. Same goes for the newer human character, Malcolm, his wife, Ellie, and even the leader of the remaining humans, Dreyfus. Oh, that reminds me, the acting was great too, especially from Andy Serkis, Jason Clarke, Keri Russell, and Gary Oldman, along with the rest of the cast. If there were any great lessons to learn from this film, it would be that one, to be willing to give others the benefit of a doubt, even if they need to earn your trust, and to not act like you know it all, when you don’t.

Still, while most of the character development was fantastic, there was some that did seem to be lacking, particularly from Dreyfus, the ex-police. I won’t go into details, but let’s just say that with actions that he took near the end of the film, there could have been a little buildup to his character. That leads me to the other deal with the climax. The climax could have been maybe tweaked a little more as well.

And that’s my review for Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes. Though it still could have been a little better, it was overall really enjoyable. Nearly everything was an improvement from Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes, from the world building, mostly good character development, a surprisingly great musical score by Michael Giacchino, and more. If you want to see a sequel that is an improvement from its predecessor, then definitely check it out. You may yet be pleasantly surprised.

Final Grade: A-

Everyone, before we get into binge watching, and reviewing the four Planet Of The Apes movies that were released from 2011 through this year, in 2024, we shall review a film that was based on actual events. And not just any historical event. It was actually based on a family that became a part of the Christian music industry, and has left an impact on Christians, and, likely even helped lead even non-Christians to The Lord. So, without further ado, let’s discuss Unsung Hero.

Plot: This film chronicles the Smallbone family, their journey from Australia to America in 1991, the struggles they faced along the way, and their slow rise in the Christian music industry.

Wow, what another triumphal entry in mainstream filmmaking, and especially in a day, and age when, despite there being films with lots of violence, sexual innuendos, and things like that, there have also been Christian films on the rise in the mainstream film industry as well. Case in point, Jesus Revolution, I Can Only Imagine, and films like those. So, with all of that said, is Unsung Hero just as good? Without a doubt! To start, people who have enjoyed any of the songs that either Christian artist Rebecca St. James, or For King & Country wrote, will especially love this film. Well, not just people who loved their music, but people who have loved Christian music in general will really come to appreciate this film. However, what makes Unsung Hero stand out is how it wasn’t afraid to show how much the Smallbone family struggled, while navigating living their new life in the U.S. I mean here many of us likely are thinking that people in the Christian artist industry have had an easy life when, in reality, they have also had struggles in their lives too like so many other Christians have. What’s even more is that because Unsung Hero was based on historical events in the Smallbone family’s lives, it may change the attitudes of the non-Christian skeptics, or possibly even Christian ones, that may believe that God doesn’t do miracles even today. Friends, family, and even strangers, watch this film, and I’m sure your skepticism will be shattered by the time you finish up watching this film. Finally, many lessons can be taken from this film, particularly from things such as how the Smallbone was willing to stick together through thick, and thin in every situation, how important it is to move forward when it’s easy to look back, how much we need Jesus, and can’t navigate through lives on our own, being humble, and grateful in every situation, and not prideful, and lessons like those.

And that’s my review for Unsung Hero. If you haven’t seen this film, then this is a must see. The lessons to take away from this film, and basically going on this journey back in time with this film overall alone will make this film worthwhile. If you find all that hard to believe, then all the more reason that you should go into this movie with a curious mind. By the end, I can guarantee that you’ll be glad that you did, whether you are a Christian, or non-Christian. So, try to make time to see Unsung Hero, and see what you think!

P.S. Happy Memorial Day!