And now, today, we review what is said will be the final installment of the Venom films that star Tom Hardy as the title character. The one, and only Venom: The Last Dance!
Plot: When Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) gets framed for the murder of Patrick Mulligan, he, and his symbiotic buddy, Venom (also Tom Hardy) must head to New York City to get his name cleared. Along the way, they must also avoid Rex Strickland (Chiwetel Ejiofor), who is the leader of a government operation by the name of Imperium, and is tracking down Eddie in order to capture Venom. Can Brock, and Venom get their names cleared, and avoid the dangers ahead, including a creature by the name of Xenophage?
Well, I have to say that Venom: The Last Dance, definitely a very good conclusion to the series. Not perfect by any means, but definitely better than either of the previous Venom movies. First of all, this film is incredibly funny. What’s really great is that most of the funny lines come from Venom himself. Not to mention that any scene that involves Eddie Brock, and Venom, especially the latter, is a highlight of this movie overall. Having a couple villains in the form of the creature, Xenophage, and Commander Rex Strickland was also well handled. Xenophage was especially really cool with his design. Truth be told, though he was a very dark villain, at least he wasn’t quite as dark, and scary compared to the Carnage from the previous sequel, Venom: Let There Be Carnage. He was still scary, but at least the filmmakers didn’t go extremely overboard like last time around. The tone, overall, while it had some dark, and very intense moments, felt a little more lighthearted at other points as well. Because of this, this sequel that is said to be the final chapter didn’t seem to have that fairly moody, and depressing feeling that the second, and, to a degree, even the first film had. Finally, the climax was very interesting, and likely even intriguing as well.
However, some of the story had some pacing in some spots. What’s more is that some of the secondary characters could have most likely been developed a little more as well. I mean they were fairly developed, but still.
And that’s my review for Venom: The Last Dance. Though this film does have couple issues in terms of some pacing, and some lack of character development, if this film was to serve as a conclusion to the Venom film series, this one definitely may have gone out with a bang. It’s funny, has a good climax, excellent action, and more that make this sequel worthwhile. If you haven’t seen Venom: The Last Dance, then go out, and see it ASAP! You’ll be glad that you did in the end.
Well, everyone, today, we review an animated film that was released a little over 30 years ago. What’s more is that it has gained popularity over the years, and seems to be a fan among many movie fans, especially those who like spooky holidays like Halloween. Not to mention that it was directed by Henry Selick, and produced by popular movie director, and producer Tim Burton. Presenting to you all my review of the one, and only The Nightmare Before Christmas! Oh, and happy Halloween! Wow, perfect timing to review a film like this one, eh? Well, let’s get started!
Plot: Jack Skellington (Chris Sarandon speaking, and Danny Elfman singing), the Pumpkin King of the fictional Halloween Town, has grown weary of doing the same old things for his town, and people for the past many years. But when he discovers Christmas Town, he decides to attempt incorporating elements of Christmas into his town, and its citizens? Will that plan work out for the best, or will it backfire in the end?
Now, as of last year, The Nightmare Before Christmas was evidently selected in the National Film Registry as being “culturally, significantly, or aesthetically significant”. That being said, is The Nightmare Before Christmas that great of a film, or is it a little overrated? Well, let me put it to you all this way! The premise is undoubtedly creative. I mean having lands like Halloween Town, or Christmas Town, and places like that that represent the different holidays of the year was a really cool idea. Granted, and this is not so much docking the film down as it is just maybe personal preference, it might have been nice to see maybe some other worlds explored like perhaps Thanksgiving Town, or Easter Town, or maybe some places like that. Even so, for what we got, the world building was very good. Some of the musical numbers, like “This Is Halloween”, “Making Christmas”, and “What’s This?”, and some of those numbers were very good. And yeah, who might not like main character Jack Skellington being called The Pumpkin King, and his head being shaped like a pumpkin, but with a different color? The designs of some of the other characters were very good too. As for the score by Danny Elfman, also very good. And yeah, let’s take a moment to appreciate how well he did with providing the singing voice for Jack Skellington for any of the numbers he sang. Honestly, I wonder if sometimes, it might have been a little too much work for him at times. You got me! Additionally, like with other stop motion animated films that have been directed by Tim Burton especially following this one, the animation was very good. Truth be told, it ended up being really good at times, especially during a couple of the numbers that Jack Skellington sang. As a result, some of the animation, and some of the movements with objects, or even characters, seemed a little more crisp, and smoother than in your typical stop motion animated movie. The characters them were also very likable, especially Jack Skellington, Sally, the Santa Clausd character that was in this film, and even the villain Oogie Boogie. I mean somehow, even though that villain doesn’t have a whole lot of screen time, any scene with him somehow ends up being very memorable anyway. Finally, for positives, there were some very good lessons to take away from this film, especially the reminder of listening to others when it’s good advice, and lessons like that.
Still, I don’t this film deserves a spot with films like Star Wars, Oklahoma!, Home Alone, A Christmas Story, The Lion King, and some of those films as being one of the best of the best. Don’t get me wrong, again, The Nightmare Before Christmas has a creative premise, has likable characters, has some memorable musical numbers, and things like that. Still, there are downsides to this film. One is that the film can be a little too dark, and creepy at times for a children’s/family film. Okay, I get that has almost always been a style for a director, or a producer like Tim Burton. Still, in films like this one, he could potentially go a little too far in that aspect at times, most notably with a string of scenes that occur around the middle to end of this film. In addition to this, some of the people of Halloween Town, especially the kids, ended up acting a little too mean, and cruel at times. I don’t know, it just seems to make this film a little mean-spirited at times, you know? Which, this leads me to another negative for this film. That being that though some of the characters, especially the main ones, that were likable, there were others that felt just the opposite. I mean yeah, I get that often you have to have characters that you love to hate, and things like that. Even so, a couple of those characters somehow seemed to be a little too much love to hate. There might be a better way for me to say that, but I’ll go with that for now. Finally, some of the characters, save ones like Sally, and Jack, to a degree, don’t seem to have too big of character arcs. Oh well!
And that’s my review for The Nightmare Before Christmas. It’s still a good film, make no mistake. But to call it a full-on classic film, I’m not sure that’s not quite the term I would use for this film. Just saying! I would say that if you still want to see a popular Halloween-themed film, you can’t go wrong with it. Again, the good most certainly outweighs the bad for this film by far, particularly because of some catchy songs, good main characters, and things like that. So, for these reasons, and more, I would still recommend it. That said, see The Nightmare Before Christmas, and see what you think!
And now, let’s discuss another origin story that involves some people’s favorite robot friends. Presenting to you all the origin of the Transformers in the form of the one, and only Transformers One!
Plot: When two Autobots by the name of Orion Pax (Chris Hemsworth), and D-16 (Brian Tyree Henry) leave their underground mining world to explore the surface of their planet home, Cybertron, they, along with their friends Elita (Scarlett Johansson), and B-127 (Keegan-Michael Key) discover some shocking secrets that could hurt the underground mining community. Now, it is up to the four of them to save their world from harm once, and for all.
Well, first of all, it was definitely nice to see this film fully animated after some of the more recent Transformers films had been mostly live-action, with the Transformers characters themselves being CGI. The world building was also very good. I mean the undermining world was very good, and even what we got to see of the surface world of Cybertron was very cool. It was also very creative to even see some animals take on a robot form as well. In addition to all of this, Paramount, and Hasbro did phenomenal with the animation for this film. In addition to all of this, how could you not appreciate how this film’s attempt to appeal to an older audience, while also trying to make it appeal to kids at the same time? The characters are also very likable, most notably our main ones Orion Pax, D-16, Elita, and B-127. Alpha Trion, who was voiced by Laurence Fishburne, was also a really good older, and wiser Transformer. Oh, and did I forget to mention that Orion Pax, and D-16 have great chemistry in their friendship? How about that? In addition to all of this, the villain, or villains, though somewhat cliche, also had some really great character development as well. Brian Tyler also had a great score that composed of a nostalgic 80s vibe, potentially mixed in with the kind that you would hear as of nowadays. As for the storyline itself, it almost felt like a film such as DreamWorks’s Antz, but with a better developed story. This film is also very funny at times. It knows when to have the comedy, and when to be more serious. Finally, as far as positives go, there are some really great lessons to take away from this film.
However, there are couple downsides to Transformers One as well. One is that though the story was very well developed, did end up being a little rushed at times. In addition to this, there were some moments that could potentially be a little over the top dark, and violent for a film even aimed at a family audience, most notably when the climax occurs. What’s even more is that by the end, some people will probably find themselves ambivalent about the ending. No, it’s not a sad ending, but may feel somewhat bittersweet, and in just an okay way.
And that’s my review for Transformers One. Though it has a good story, with moments that can likely be a little too dark for kids at times, and things like that, Transformers One is very enjoyable for its other elements. The story is good, the world building is creative, and more. If you haven’t seen Transformers One yet, I would highly recommend it. Though not perfect, there’s plenty to recommend for it. So again, see it, and see what you think!
Well, everyone, today, we are going to be diving into one of the last hand-drawn animated films that was released by DreamWorks during the early 2000s, before the studio, and many other ones, including Disney, decided to shift entirely over to computer animation, for the most part. But before that happened for DreamWorks, the studio released two final hand-drawn films in between the years of 2001’s Shrek, and 2004’s Shrek 2. Those films being 2003’s Sinbad: Legend Of The Seven Seas, and this film, 2002’s Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron. Well, it is the one from 2002 that we are going to be reviewing today. Now, before we move on to the review, I would like to say something to you all, the audience really quick. I know that for some of you who watched me write film reviews just on Facebook, before moving onto a blog, and posting them on my newer blog, and onto Facebook, you may have noticed that with films like a couple of the Jurassic World films, and, I think, a couple others, I have reviewed them a second time around here on my blog as well. Well, if you think that a weird thing, then I understand. Well, just know that after seeing some film reviewers on YouTube, like my friend Steven Mannasse, and Rachel Wagner, review a film more than once on their channel, I figured, why not try it on here as well, especially for ones that I had only reviewed on Facebook before even starting this blog, you know? Who knows, maybe I’ll have additional things to say about it, say more positive, or even negative thoughts about a film that I might review again on this blog. We’ll see! Either way, I think that I should have a right to review a film more than once, especially for those that were just reviewed on Facebook, but not on this blog. Just a thought! That all said, even though this isn’t in preparation for a sequel, I thought that, especially since I reviewed the supposed sequel, or just spin-off film that was just released back in 2021, I figured why not review the original film that was released back in 2002, and was most likely successful enough on video to spawn a TV show on Netflix over a decade later, as well as the 2021 theatrical release of Spirit Untamed? So now, especially for those of you who have followed my blog, and those of you who have followed me even just on Facebook, I give you my review, or rather a second one for the sake of this blog, of the 2002 DreamWorks animated film, Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron.
Plot: In the 19th Century Old West, a young Kiger Mustang named Spirit (Matt Damon provides narration for this character, along with Bryan Adams doing the singing part of that), lives most likely in the Rocky Mountains of most likely Wyoming, with his mom, and a herd of wild horses as leader of that herd. But one day, Spirit is taken by a group of cowboys to a U.S. Army camp in the desert of Utah. But once he gets rescued by a Paint Mare named Rain, and an Indian of the Lakota tribe named Little Creek (Daniel Studi), can these two new friends help Spirit get back to his homeland?
Now, for those of you who read my first review of this film just on Facebook, you may recall me mentioning how, when I saw a sneak peek of it on my DVD copy of Shrek, I was fairly excited for it, but more excited for it when I saw a better trailer for it on Ice Age in theaters just a month and a half before Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron hit theaters. Well, here’s a little more that I will confess in addition to that. First of all, how many of you out there have heard the songs “Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root, or “You Set Me Free” by Michelle Branch? Probably a few of you out there, yes? Well, interestingly enough, after hearing some of the latter song play during maybe the last half of the trailer for Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron, and the former song play as a montage sequence during Ice Age, I had both songs stuck in my head for a while. Why was that, you may wonder? Maybe because of the fact that both songs play in the musical key of C? You got me! Anyway, even though “You Set Me Free” didn’t play during the actual film, I still enjoyed the original songs by Bryan Adams for this movie, but more on that in a bit.
Now, that with all that out of the way, how does Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron still hold up just as much when I last rewatched it a few years ago, and even before, when it came out in 2002, and shortly after? Well, it does, actually. First of all, like in many of DreamWorks’ animated films, especially the other four hand-drawn ones, the animation is top notch at best. That should probably come as no surprise, considering a lot of the animators for DreamWorks came from Disney, when they left with Jeffrey Katzenberg after his falling out with former CEO Michael Eisner, and his decision to form DreamWorks with Steven Spielberg, and David Geffen. I mean from the backgrounds of the mountains, and grassy plains, to the beautiful animation of the canyon in Utah, and even the beautiful night skies, you can tell that the animators put in plenty of effort from beginning to end. After rewatching this film again just a couple weeks ago, I was also surprised to find how much detail they put in facial expressions on the characters alone, whether it be the raising of the eyebrows even on a horse, a smile on a human, or even a horse character, you name it. Truth be told, even if Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron takes a more realistic approach in it’s storyline (more on that in a bit), it was probably for the best that this film was animated, as a live-action film, especially one released at a time like the early to mid-2000s, probably couldn’t have that much fun, if at all, in pulling off good facial expressions on an animal. So, because of this, it was unique, and creative how they did that whole deal here.
Now, I bet you’re all wondering what I meant by this film taking a more realistic approach than most other animated films. Well, unlike many other animated films, especially ones that feature animals as the main characters, neither the horses, or any of the other animals speak this time around. Instead, we have two different things going on. First off, there’s Matt Damon being a narrator for this film. Basically, he is the voice for Spirit in this film. Damon narrates Spirit’s thoughts, and feelings throughout the course of this film, such as how Spirit feels this way, or that way, what being a leader of his herd meant, that he has conflicting feelings with certain situations, and things like that. Then, there’s Bryan Adams singing for Spirit. Basically, imagine if instead of Simba in the Lion King singing that he’s eager to be King of Pride Rock, Elton John would be saying that in his place if Simba, and the animals of The Lion King didn’t speak. Thankfully, that was not the case, since all the characters in that film were animals. Anyway, that’s what happens here in Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron, Bryan Adams sings when he does his musical narration for Spirit, say when Adams sings about Spirit being born in a new world, and having a new start (“Here I Am”), wanting humans to get off of his back (“Get Off My Back”), and more throughout the course of this film. That said, instead of Spirit himself singing about, or saying those things himself, Bryan Adams does that instead for the musical portion, and Matt Damon for the speaking moments whenever a point needs to get across for Spirit, and any situation surrounding him for this film. Now, I bet you’re wondering why it likely works better for an animated film like Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron for the animals not to talk much more so than in other animated films like 1994’s The Lion King, or 2000’s Dinosaur, for example. Well, maybe my judgment is a little off because neither example that I gave was given a chance for that to be pulled off. However, I think not having the animals themselves speak in this case works beautifully well because, one, of there being humans in this film. Sure, more popular DreamWorks films like Shrek had animals talk, and there being humans. Still, maybe it was the difference in tone in the cases of a movie like Shrek, and one like Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron? Again, maybe I’m missing something. Anyway, I think that the route of not having the animals speak works very well since this film takes a more realistic approach, and, yet, puts it in the form of animation. Films like this, and Prince Of Egypt, for example, somehow know how to pull off a stunt like this very well. Additionally, the other reason this move works well for this movie is that Matt Damon, and Bryan Adams, in addition to helping be the voice for the horse, Spirit, also help move the story along, develop some of the characters of this film as well, most notably ones like a Lakota Indian named Little Creek, and a Paint Mare named Rain, and things like that.
This leads to the storyline overall. The story is very unique, creative, and truly knows how to keep the audience engaged, despite not having the animals talk. Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron definitely breaks cliches in quite a few ways not only for that aspect, but for others as well, like for how relationships are developed, and handled, and even the ending. I won’t give away what happens near, and at the end. However, let’s just say that it’s very different, and unique especially from your typical animated film, and gets pulled off beautifully well. There are also some funny moments, as well as some surprisingly very emotional moments that will pull heartstrings, including a very heartwarming ending. Again, see this film, if you haven’t, and you’ll see what I mean. Some people might take offense at the fact that white men were portrayed as being evil, and Indians being good guys in this movie. Still, since this movie takes place during the 19th Century Old West, and the Indian Wars took place during that time period, can you blame the filmmakers showing that aspect even somewhat, even if it was much worse in real life than what was briefly shown in that regard for this film? Yes, there were good white men. However, since this movie obviously wanted to focus more on portraying a horse’s point of view, and this film could only cover so much, especially around an hour, and a half, it may understandable that though it may have been a difficult decision, it might have been for the best that white men were portrayed in that way. I don’t know. Also, despite this film being one of the very rare ones from DreamWorks to receive a G-rating (yes, extremely rare, with only this one, and 2000’s Chicken Run having that rating to this day), the movie acts very mature in it’s storytelling, and the film’s themes. One other thing I would like to bring up for the story aspect is that it was very nice for this film to have a feel not only of animated films like The Lion King, and even Pocahontas to a degree, but also live-action films such as The Adventures Of Milo & Otis, Homeward Bound, a little bit of Dances With Wolves, and maybe even a mini-series like Lonesome Dove as well.
In addition to all of this, did I fail to mention the score by Hans Zimmer? Wow, one word to say for it is breathtaking. This score for this movie definitely deserves more credit than it’s given. After people hear it, it wouldn’t be surprising if a lot of people decided to buy, or download its soundtrack, especially when hearing the score in the intro of this film, and during the more epic moments that occur in this film. Not to mention all the instruments that are incorporated in the score for this film, like the guitar, the melodic piano, and more. Oh, and having some Irish folklore mixed in was a nice touch for Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron’s score as well.
Now, I briefly touched on the songs for this film a bit ago. However, I will say that the songs are very fun, catchy, and memorable overall. From beautiful melodic ones like “Here I Am”, to comedic ones like “Get Off Of My Back”, songs of determination like “You Can’t Take Me”, to even ones with a more sad, and serious tone like “Sound The Bugle”, or even the finale song, “I Will Always Return”, and any of Adams’ other original songs, these songs that were written by him are memorable, help develop the characters, notably Spirit, and the storyline, and are overall very enjoyable to listen to, and make Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron a really enjoyable experience.
Then, there are the characters. You’ll love these characters as well. Spirit was a great character for being one that doesn’t even talk. Same goes for Rain, Spirit’s love interest, Spirit’s mother, and even the Lakota Indian, Little Creek. Then, there’s the Colonel. Not only is this character voiced by James Cromwell, and serves as the villain for this movie, but he also looks very similar to a real historical figure like General Custer. What’s even more is that despite being the villain of this movie, he also ends up standing out, and being a little more different from many other animated villains. Hard to believe? Well, let’s just say that you’d be surprised by some of the ways that the Colonel is handled in this movie, specifically around the middle to end of this film.
Finally, the movie also does great with the relationships. Not only was the relationship between Spirit, and Rain done well, but also his relationship with his mother, and even his relationship with the Indian, Little Creek. That is another positive about this film is that it develops nearly every relationship really well. In fact, if you saw DreamWorks’ How To Train Your Dragon (which, of course was released eight years later, in 2010), and liked the bond between Hiccup, and Toothless, I can guarantee you’ll also love even the bond between Spirit, and Little Creek, for instance.
And that’s my review for Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron. So, with all of that said, why did this film only recuperate $73 million of it’s $80 million budget back, with only an additional $49 million for a total $122 million worldwide? Did it suffer from competition from films like the first Spider-Man film that starred Tobey McGuire, and Star Wars Episode II: Attack Of The Clones, which also came out in May 2002, and then likely getting overshadowed even more by family films like the live-action Scooby Doo, and Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, both of which came out a month after this film? Most likely! However, I do also think that Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron probably also suffered from not getting marketed, and advertised quite nearly as well as it should have been in the end. And sure, people starting to like computer animated films more might have served as a factor as well. And it’s all a shame, because Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron deserves more recognition for the reasons that I mentioned before, and more. There’s heart to this film, which truly shows, the animation of the backgrounds, and characters is outstanding, the songs by Bryan Adams are really good, yet underrated, Matt Damon does great with the voice narration, the score by Hans Zimmer is out of this world, and the film is overall really great. If you haven’t given Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron yet, rent it, watch it on Netflix, or whatever else you want to do to see this film. Trust me when I say that you’ll be glad that you saw it by the time this film is over. And hey, after seeing it, you might find that you want to own your own copy of this film. Again, definitely Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron, and see what you think!
And now, everyone, today, let’s review a film that was apparently a sequel to an old cult classic film from 1988. Presenting to you all my review of the sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice!
Plot: After circumstances cause Astrid Deetz (Jenna Ortega), the daughter of Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) to end up in the afterlife, Lydia reluctantly decides to summon the demon ghost of Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) to enlist his help in rescuing her. Now, will they be able to save Astrid before she ends up being forced to stay in the afterlife for good?
Okay, I have to confess, even though I originally meant to, I didn’t get around to seeing the first film, from 1988. So, I was debating whether or not to even review this sequel in the first place. Ultimately, I decided that since it’s only a second film, to go ahead, and review it anyway. I will say that despite only seeing the second film, and not the first as well that I have a fairly good understanding of the storyline overall. That being said, though this film does feel somewhat convoluted at times, it is still a fun family film. First off, how could we not appreciate Michael Keaton apparently returning as the title character himself? Man, does he do well playing the part since Jim Carrey voicing The Grinch in the live-action adaptation of How The Grinch Stole Christmas, or even Robin Williams voicing the Genie in Aladdin, for example. Keaton helps bring life to Beetlejuice in terms of making him hilarious, have a quirky personality, and more. Also, how could you not appreciate him handling some situations in very creative ways? Don’t believe me? All the more reason to see this film, if you haven’t yet, and I’m sure you’ll understand what I mean. The other characters were also likable, like Lydia Deetz, her daughter, Astrid, a teenager named Jeremy Frazier, and other characters as well. As for some of the CGI, though some of it could feel a little dated sometime in the future, that aspect is also very good. The world building, especially of the afterlife, was superb as well. Sure, some of it could have maybe been explored a little more. Still, for what it was, it was definitely very cool. Finally, for positives, how could I mention how hilarious Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is at quite a few moments in this film, even if some of the humor was a little dark at times.
But with all of these making the film sound great, this sequel does fall in a few ways. For one, there were some situations in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice that could have likely been handled a little better, to a point where, in some ways, some people might end up wishing that this sequel didn’t exist. Again, the sequel is enjoyable overall, but still. The film can also feel a little too depressing at times. Which, that leads me to my final point. There were times when Beetlejuice Beetlejuice could potentially feel a little too dark, and scary for children. I’m sure that maybe that was the case for the first film, but still. Well, there’s typical Tim Burton for you, I guess. Also, part of me is surprised that Beetlejuice has apparently, from what I’ve heard of him in the first film, hasn’t seemed to grow as much as a character in this sequel. Whatever, I guess.
And that’s my review for Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. Though it can have a dark, sad, and depressing tone at times, it is still a very fun film in whose comedy is carried on by characters like Beetlejuice himself. I would say that if you like comedy, enjoyed the first film, and are a hardcore Tim Burton fan, then you’ll probably like this film. Either way, definitely see Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, if you still have yet to, and see what you think!
Final Grade: B
P.S. I have had a busy schedule for the past couple weeks, and will be busy with life for the next week, or two. Because of that, I probably won’t make it to seeing movies, nor get to reviewing movies again until maybe October 13th, or shortly after. Anyway, just thought you all should know so that none of you think that my days of seeing movies are over, or something like that. Well, I just wanted to throw that out there.
Everyone, I give you all my review of a film that may likely be both a Christian/faith-based film, and one that is based on a true story. So here is my review of the very film that stars Dennis Quaid, Penelope Ann Miller, and Jon Voight. So let’s discuss the one, and only Reagan.
Plot: The film centers around President Ronald Reagan (played by Dennis Quaid in this film), and all his accomplishments over the course of his presidency, and his life overall.
Okay, I will say that though I was very familiar with former President Ronald Reagan before seeing this film I don’t recall being this familiar to what he had done, and things that he stood for. I will say that after seeing Reagan, first off, please don’t pay attention to the 17% score that this film was apparently given on Rotten Tomatoes. That is a load of bull crap. This film is much, much better than that. First of all, Dennis Quaid as President Ronald Reagan, he was most definitely the perfect choice for a role such as this. And, come on, Quaid is great in any role that he’s been in in the past, be it the Reverend from last year’s The Hill, Bart Millard’s father in I Can Only Imagine, Jimmy Morris in The Rookie, or even a Medieval Knight named Bowen in Dragonheart, for example, he can basically nail down any role that he’s in. The role of President Reagan is most definitely no different. I mean it’s almost like he had a great understanding of Reagan’s personality, and his character overall. Penelope Ann Miller as his wife, Nancy, was also great, as well as Jon Voight, who plays a Russian that was a former main security person for the Soviet Union. In addition to all this, it’s fascinating how much richness, and depth there is to the history of President Ronald Reagan. What’s more is that it’s eye-opening, and jaw dropping to see parallels to Reagan, and people like certain former recent Presidents. Also, as you watch this film, it’s like you can see how the Hand Of God was sovereign over the course of President Reagan’s life. Whether even non-Christians may come to realize that after watching this film, or not, you got me. It also served as a reminder as to why God allows events to occur the way that they have recently, or long ago, and how God’s timing is perfect for any, and every situation. Additionally, the characters are really well developed. It was great to see this film be long enough to develop them all, and really bring the heart, and care of this part of history to life. Did it need to be around 2 1/2 hours? Well, whether it needed to be, or not, such a long running time certainly helped. Finally, the movie serves as a great reminder to each of us about why living life to the fullest is one of the most important things one can do in life.
And that’s my review for Reagan. It was great to see not one, but two Christian faith-based films get released this past month, with this one, and The Forge the week before. Anyway, Reagan is a great film with great acting, excellent character development, an excellent story, and, I will also add, may help serve as a reminder to why it’s important to vote, and to truly think critically about the leaders that we may consider voting for in the future. And yes, there are excellent morals, and lessons to take away from this film as well. If you haven’t seen Reagan yet, definitely do so whenever you can. You’ll enjoy how heartwarming it is, and why it’s one of the most uplifting films as well.
And now, we have finally arrived at the latest installment of the Despicable Me franchise. So now, let’s discuss Despicable Me 4.
Plot: When Gru (Steve Carrell), his wife (Kristen Wiig), and their kids (Miranda Cosgrove, Madison Polan, and Dana Geier), along with Anti-Villain League leader Silas Ramsbottom (Steve Coogan) discover that an old rival of Gru’s named Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell) has escaped a security prison with the help of superpowers that he has, Gru, and the family are forced to go into hiding until Le Mal is found. Can the AVL track down Le Mal before he finds Gru, and the family, or will the family be discovered, and end up in big trouble?
Well, I will admit right out of the gate that this film is very funny like all the other previous Despicable Me films. Sure, some of the humor may feel childish, but still. The animation is also very nice. Oh, and some of the plot was very clever at times, particularly with how some of the beginning, and ending, were handled. Additionally, can we also take time to admire how cleverly designed Maxime Le Mal was, particularly with him being a Spider-Man type of character, but having powers of those of a cockroach instead? Honestly, he may be one of the better villains in the Despicable Me franchise, along with maybe Macho from Despicable Me 2. And Gru Jr., how could you not consider him as an adorable baby, along with how creative he is with keeping characters like Gru out of trouble at certain points in this film?
Still, the film did feel like it did have one too many subplots going on as well? It seemed to keep the film from being potentially better than it was in the end? Sure, in some ways, I could see why some things were written the way that they were. Overall, however, the somewhat cluttered storyline seemed to serve as proof that at this point, Universal, and Illumination should let this film be the final film of this franchise, and move onto more original projects. Yes, I’m excited for the upcoming Sing 3, if that ends up occurring. Other than that, the company needs to try to come up with newer ideas. And, need I remind other companies like Disney, Disney/Pixar, DreamWorks, and other companies to do the same?
And that’s my review for Despicable Me 4. Though it was an alright sequel, I think it’s time that the company say that they made sequels for this franchise for a long time, but should most definitely say goodbye to it at this point. This film does have some neat things in it, sure. Still, hopefully this can be the last chapter before this franchise gets milked out, and the it gets possibly worse in the future. I would say still see Despicable Me 4, but don’t set your expectations too high for it.
And now for my review for the third Despicable Me film, Despicable Me 3, before I go see the fourth installment, and give you all that review!
Plot: When a super villain, and former 1980s Hollywood star named Balthazar Bratt (Trey Parker) attempts to steal a rich diamond that will help him enable a giant robot to destroy people in Hollywood for cancelling his show, Evil Bratt, it is up to Gru (Steve Carrell), his wife, Lucy (Kristen Wiig), and a twin brother of Gru’s that he now comes to find out about named Dru (also Steve Carrell) to find him, and put an end to his diabolical schemes once, and for all.
Now, for those of you who read my reviews, when I was just posting them on Facebook years ago, and was not as familiar with how to get a blog set up, you may recall that I gave this film, and sequel, a B-, yes? Would that be the case now? Well, let’s just talk about how this sequel works, and doesn’t work, shall we?
First of all, let’s go with the cons. First of all, again, there were some scenes that were rather unnecessary, most notably a scene in the beginning that, though an inappropriate scene that was thankfully censored, probably still wasn’t exactly the best for kids. Also, some of the newer characters, like Gru’s twin brother, weren’t all that interesting. Additionally, the film had some cliches that seemed to make the film a little too predictable at times. Now yes, I understand that movies are predictable to one degree, or another, especially animated ones, even if some of those have had plot twists from time to time, but still. Anyway, this, in turn, basically seemed to cause the writing to not be that great for Despicable Me 3. Finally, some of the ending probably wasn’t the best, and made it look like some things that were resolved by the end actually weren’t.
But now, let’s talk about the pros for the movie, shall we? First of all, how could you not love some of the soundtrack of this film, especially for those of us that grew up in the 1980s, and may find ourselves having an appreciation at least for any of the songs from that era that played during this movie? The animation is also really great. In fact, that aspect has probably gotten better with each of these films that have come out over the past decade, or more. Also, once again, how could you not like the comedic lines, or the comedic characters, be it the Minions, or any of the other characters that do hilarious stunts in this film? But probably one of the better aspects of Despicable Me 3 was how Lucy’s character was handled in this film. I mean after the second film, she was one of the characters that seemed to grow as one as this film progressed. I mean the way that she would try to find creative ways of being a good mother to Margo, Edith, and Agnes, or would lend a helping hand whenever necessary, how could you not like her character even more this time around? Balthazar Bratt, the villain, also was really cool with his stunts, and how he would carry out his schemes. And, finally, the climax was really cool, and, at points, intensive as well.
And that’s my review for Despicable Me 3. Honestly, this one can be a bit of a mixed bag, with there being quite a few pros, but quite a few cons as well. Still, despite that, this sequel is still a decent one. If you haven’t seen Despicable Me 3 yet, you’ll still enjoy it. Just maybe don’t set your expectations too high.
Alright, well, today, we review a faith based film that was directed by two brothers that have made these types of films for barely over twenty years. Each of their films have proved to tackle some very mature lessons along the way, whether it be their films like Facing The Giants, Fireproof, Courageous, or any other films. Well, these brothers, known as the Kendrick Brothers, have released their latest film, The Forge. So now, let’s review this film. Oh, and before we do, can you believe that we’re ten reviews away from the 700th review in my film reviewing? How about that!?! Anyway, moving on!
Plot: When a nineteen-year-old kid named Isaiah Wright (Aspen Kennedy) is catapulted into making better life decisions following his graduation from high school, he is invited to lunch by the president (Cameron Arnett) of a company called Moore Fitness. As he is challenged by him physically, mentally, emotionally, and, likely, even spiritually, Isaiah must now decide whether or not he will go back to his old way of living, or leave his old way of life behind him.
As I mentioned before, this is the Kendrick Brothers first film in 9 years, since their last film, War Room. With that said, did these make yet another film that is worth seeing? As a matter of fact, yes, they did. In fact, if you remember War Room, this film sort of has similar themes to that one, but with some new ingredients mixed in the dish. It’s also great to see a couple familiar faces thrown into this film, along with some newer faces as well. Speaking of faces, the characters are also really likable. I was surprised to see how some of them were handled, and in a good way too. The storyline was also interesting, as well as very thought-provoking. So much so that, at times, it could potentially cause Christians to likely examine, or reexamine their faith in different areas of their lives by the time the movie is done. Sure, other faith-based films, including ones from the past that have been made by Alex, and Stephen Kendrick, have had a tendency to do that beforehand. Still, The Forge does a surprisingly amazing job of doing that even more so. Oh, and did I forget to mention the awesome soundtrack that this film has? Well, especially for those of you that have listened to Christian stations like K-Love, for example, and have loved it, you’ll love the songs that are featured in this film. The movie also does well with portraying how, though it needs to happen at some point, it can be very difficult even for Christians to forgive others that have hurt them at different points in their lives. Honestly, something that has likely caused a lot, if not all, of these films made by the Kendrick Brothers, to become potential classics particularly in Christian circles is that each of them has done well with teaching Christians, and, hopefully, even non-Christians that may have given some, if not all, of these films a chance somewhere along the way, some valuable lessons. Whether those have been lessons about learning to trust, and worship God even when things don’t go the way that we want (Facing The Giants), marriage, commitment, and even forgiveness in difficult circumstances (Fireproof), the true meaning of fatherhood, and being courageous when necessary (Courageous), learning to overcome difficult obstacles in life (Overcomer), and films, and lessons like those, Christians, for sure, will find a reasons to love these films. Hopefully, the same will be said about non-Christians that may be willing to give films like this one a chance. Anyway, The Forge is most definitely no different, particularly with its lessons of forgiveness, willing to show up, and truly be a man in life, and sacrifices that we must sometimes make in each person’s walk with Jesus for those that choose to walk with, and have a relationship with Him. As for the ending, I won’t give away all that happens by then. However, let’s just say that in some ways, you may find yourself surprised by how this film wraps up. One final thing to mention is that if, or when, you see this film, please do not be quick to rush out of the theater. There will some be some additional scenes that will occur during the beginning of the credits. Again, won’t go into details about those.
And that’s my review for The Forge. I will say again that The Kendrick Brothers definitely made yet another well-crafted movie with fun, and memorable characters, a great storyline, valuable lessons to take away from this film, and more. Considering that this is the Kendrick Brothers first film to be released since 2015’s War Room, I’m sure that many of us can tell they truly did put heart, and effort into making sure that they made a great film, instead of a good one. Seeing as all of their films have successfully gotten released theatrically (with the exception of 2003’s Flywheel, which also got released theatrically at least in one, or two states), these guys have come along way since Flywheel, and especially 2006’s Facing The Giants. Hopefully, whatever films they do come out with in the future, they will continue to touch, and anoint other people, Christian, and, hopefully, even non-Christian alike. Either way, if you haven’t seen The Forge yet, I highly recommend that you do as soon as possible. It’s pleasant, and, more importantly, one of the most uplifting films to come out in the film industry as of recently. Go see it, if you haven’t yet, and see what you think!
Well, everyone, it is now time for reviewing the standalone sequel to what is considered a classic disaster film from 1996, the is, and only, Twisters.
Plot: After a traumatic event that causes a storm chaser by the name of Kate Carter (Daisy Edgar-Jones) to give up on that job, she ends up working at an NOAA in New York City. Five years later, her friend, and a former storm chaser friend of hers named Javi (Anthony Ramos) visits her at her work. He informs her of a tornado that rampantly rolled through a town in Oklahoma without warning, leaving some survivors in the process. So Kate agrees to join a mobile tornado radar company by the name of Storm Par, led by an expert storm chaser Tyler Owens (Glen Powell), after being informed that her additional expertise on tornadoes could save many of the remaining lives in that area. Now, the question remains, will Kate, Javi, Tyler, and the rest of the crew that’s located in that part of Oklahoma, successfully prevent a future more deadly tornado from destroying that town of Oklahoma once, and for all?
Well, did this film serve as an improvement to the 1996 film, or was it less than that one? Well, I’m going to be honest with you all by saying that this one was an improvement in terms of this one having less coarse language, and having better character development this time around. What’s more is that even though it was a whole completely different set of characters this time around, it was almost likely you found yourself caring for these ones a little more this time around. The movie, though it might drag a little at times is, for the most part, very well-paced. Benjamin Wallfisch’ score was also really good. As for the story itself, it was very well structured, well executed, and, much like the first film, had a really creative setup, maybe even a little more so this time around. Also, it was great to see characters, like main one Kate Carter, being willing to give something a second chance, particularly if it were to mean serving for a positive cause. Honestly, in world, and, likely even culture, that seems to want to give up at the first sign of difficulty, I’m sure we could learn some valuable lessons from characters like Kate, and Javi, especially the former one. And, again, the characters were likable. Glen Powell’s character, Tyler Owens, had some really hilarious lines in this film. In fact, it would seem as if he helped provide the most comic relief of all the characters in this film. Speaking of comic relief, this film helped provide quite a few hilarious moments to make up for any of the hard, and tragic moments that occurred in this film. A great majority of the action scenes were really great as well. One most notable example was the climax. I won’t tell what happened, but let’s just say that you’d likely be surprised to see how the climax is handled, and how things come full circle by the end. Things ended up being very interesting in that regard. Finally, the relationships are really well developed.
And that’s my review for Twisters. If you haven’t seen this movie, then I highly recommend it. It has funny moments, intense ones, a cast of likable characters, and many other elements that help make for a fun sequel. If you haven’t seen this Twister film, but have at least seen the first one, please make a point to see this one. Even if you were not as big of a fan of the 1996 classic, you ought likely this second one a little more so. Anyway, make a point to see if, if you haven’t, and see what you think!
Matthew’s Animated & Live-Action Movie Reviews 