Maskerpiece Theatre: box office review

Showing posts with label box office review. Show all posts

Thursday, November 24, 2016

Arrival - Box Office Review

I walked into the theater knowing absolutely nothing about this film. I had read a few tweets celebrating the story and the originality but beyond that I was clueless what I was about to get into with my ticket purchase. So let’s dive in and take a look at my thoughts of “Arrival” in this box office review…

I was pleased with the casting of this film. When your four leading talents are Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Michael Stuhlbarg and Forest Whitaker you can safely assume the acting will be enjoyable. It was. Each character played a completely unique voice as all four work together to try and figure out the sudden arrival of alien ships on the planet Earth, each with separate purpose and motivation. As per usual, Renner had the comic relief bits to provide some levity to an otherwise thought provoking examination of how communication matters and why proper communication is essential. This film explores what it means to share thoughts and concepts, the value in sharing and why what is perceived could be misleading with misinformation.

The story, overall, was not all that challenging. It’s plot is fairly simple. Aliens land, we need to figure out what they’re saying, some humans act crazy, communication and understanding saves the day. Not all that interesting when broken down in that manner. However, the language the aliens use was brand new. In fact, the movie goes as far as to calculate the language in mathematical terms to try and decrypt the symbols to better understand their meaning. The details of this story are what shape the concept into something special and worthwhile. This would be the second science fiction film this year I’ve seen and reviewed that was not overly special effects heavy, the first being “Midnight Special.” The attention to detail in character development, tone, story and look make this film a must see for science fiction fans and for those of us who also love thought provoking drama’s.

“Arrival” is in theaters now! I recommend this film to most everyone. It’s well told and it keeps you thinking. I won’t go as far as to say you must see this on the big screen but I will encourage you to. This is an original story that isn’t a reboot, a sequel or filled with comic book characters. I’m not knocking those types of movies because I’ve been enjoying most of them. I just talk to movie goers and they seem to voice their frustrations with how many theaters are filled with those types of movies. So, if you’re one of those folks then you need to see this in theaters and support originality, whenever done well. “Arrival” was done well. If you wait for Redbox or VOD, it’s still worth your time.

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Tuesday, July 12, 2016

The Shallows - Box Office Review

From discussions I've had with the folks who work at the movie theater I frequent, I heard "The Shallows" was probably the scariest shark movie since "Jaws". I walked into this film with an open mind considering the trailers didn't really provide much information beyond a woman is being hunted by a shark in paradise. So let's dive in and take a look at my thoughts on "The Shallows" in this box office review...

The movie stars Blake Lively and to be honest the only other film I've seen her in was "Green Lantern" back in 2011. It was a terrible film but she wasn't part of the disaster that was that film. She acted her part well to be fair. She made a curious choice to star in a movie that would require her to act on a level I had not seen before from her. Much Like Tom Hanks in "Cast Away" this film would require her to perform so well we wouldn't need any other characters. I felt like her performance was better than mediocre and I enjoyed the screen time where she logically worked out solutions to the life threatening problems she faced. She was exciting to watch and had moments of high and low points which was better than I could've expected not being entirely familiar with her acting ability.

The supporting characters in the film were two surfers, a kid and a tour guide. Also, we briefly meet her father, sister and creatively we find out she was vacationing with a friend who enjoys a good party and attractive dudes. All of these characters have minimal screen time. The main supporting cast was the shark and a sea gull. Yes, the bird. Surprisingly, the sea gull provided some levity to an otherwise intense film. The shark was animated incredibly well and it's size was enormous. When we see the shark underwater or attacking above water it's clear that this monster of the sea is not playing around and is out for blood. It's terrifying. I loved it. There are a few scenes that are shot from a birds eye view showing the enormity of this predator and that added a sense of terror and suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat.

"The Shallows" is in theaters now! If you want to see a beautifully shot, suspense filled, shark movie you should see this film in theaters. It's one suspenseful moment after another. As you find yourself breathing a sigh of relief that Lively's character might finally be saved, it's immediately stolen. The story keeps progressing and building and while doing all of this it gives slight clues to what the next shock will be. This only escalates the tension because you have a brief clue about whats about to happen but you don't know when. The location of this film is beautiful and the cameras capture it wonderfully. The perfect looking location to be ruined by so monstrous a creature under the crystal blue water.

Saturday, July 2, 2016

The Neon Demon - Box Office Review

I didn’t find much media buzz around this movie. I was curious about the film because what I did hear suggested it was going to be something of a psychological thriller. Women, models actually, living in Los Angeles mentally tormenting each other in a manner believable to anyone who’s ever dealt with models. This was not that movie at all. This is the most artsy film I will probably see in 2016. So let’s dive in and take a look at my thoughts on “The Neon Demon” in this box office review…

First, you have to understand how artsy this film is. It’s so artsy, it almost feels like two completely separate films and I’m almost certain director Nicolas Refn prefers it that way. You have one part of the story which is the life of “Jesse” played by Elle Fanning at her hotel with her kind of boyfriend and then her life as a model. It literally feels and looks like two separate films. I’m leaning towards intentional planning over bad cinematography. I feel it was planned because both look incredible in their own ways. The modeling scenes have some of the most vivid colors and entertaining flashes of black to white to color to everything else and more. The motel scenes are grainy and dirty similar to the life she lives when she’s not part of the Los Angeles modeling scene. This film looks incredible.

Ok, now let’s get weird. This film uses symbolism like nudie pamphlets being handed out on the Vegas strip. It’s everywhere. It’s non stop. It’s inescapable. It’s leaves you feeling perplexed and possibly even slightly disturbed walking out of the theater. There’s murder. There’s dancing. There’s modeling. There’s minimal dialogue. There’s an over abundance of symbolism. I still don’t understand the neon triangles and what those were suppose to represent but they occurred throughout the film and if anyone knows why please comment below and inform me. The ending, we see something incredible disgusting but it’s symbolism for the passing of guilt and freeing oneself of the burden of guilt and how another human can pick up that guilt and carry it with them. It’s gross but it’s also poetic in a sense. I found myself thinking, “dear god this uncomfortable but my goodness this is a creative way to show a person self destruct.”

Ok, so all in all, the acting isn’t great. The dialogue is almost not even present and what dialogue is there feels like a high school junior could’ve written it and that’s about it. It’s slow. It’s bizarre. It’s artsy. It’s gonna probably make you feel like taking a prozac afterwards. It’s also gonna make you see models differently too. I’m still trying to figure out those stupid neon triangles and the ending is gross but clever.

“The Neon Demon” is playing in theaters now! I will not recommend anyone see this movie because I do not want people blaming me for whatever weird thoughts and/or feelings they experience from this bizarre film. If you do decide to watch this in theaters, VOD or Redbox you do so on your own merit and not by my recommendation (disclaimer over). So yeah, still don’t understand the neon triangles. Oh well, one of life’s great mysteries I suppose.

Independence Day Resurgence - Box Office Review

It only took 20 years to make but we finally got a sequel to “Independence Day” folks. Internet buzz told me that the Hollywood press wasn’t given an advance screening, which is always a bad sign, so I didn’t have high hopes for this film. So let’s not waste 20 more years in this introduction and let’s dive in on my thoughts of “Independence Day Resurgence” in this box office review…

What a piece of garbage. I can’t recall seeing a film this bad in awhile. I mean, wow. Just an absolute pile of hot garbage. I was flabbergasted at how insufferable the plot was, the characters, the dialogue, the story but I was pleased with how good it looked. So, much like the attractive musical pop stars who look great and sound terrible, this… yes, this film was a musical pop star. All look, no substance.

I shouldn’t feel this disgusted considering Roland Emmerich directed this stink fest. His last string of films were definitely lacking in everything but visuals. In all honesty, I should’ve walked into the theater knowing it was going to be lacking in everything but look, which it was. I mean, one of the main characters actually says the line “Here’s your first encounter” while shooting aliens. Kill me. The very beginning of the film we see two pilots screw up a landing and then magically figure out a way to stop the space station from collapsing on itself while shouting things like “but the engines are gonna blow” followed by some mess like “hold together” or “come on baby” and it was terrible.

Now there’s part of me that wants to believe there were moments of redemption in this movie. These were probably the moments which I slept in the theater. That’s right folks. I fell asleep not once but TWICE during this film only to wake up and see the exact same thing happening. This film felt like something that was made for television but got an insane budget and was pushed onto the big screen. It’s the science fiction space equivalent of a “Sharknado” film in my opinion. Just rotten to the core and such a waste of everyones time.

“Independence Day Resurgence” is in theaters now! It shouldn’t be but it is. Don’t see this film unless you’re home and completely wasted out of your mind and can’t find the remote to change the channel. Then, you did that to yourself and you have to live with the consequences of your actions. If you’re into terrible science fiction films and enjoy mocking them, then this is the film for you! You can “Mystery Science Theater” the world out of this film. It’s ripe for jokes and sarcasm that is well deserved and earned. One can only wonder how much more disastrous they could’ve made this film had they waited 30 years instead of 20. Two thumbs down and flipping over tables to spill the popcorn.

Saturday, June 25, 2016

Popstar Never Stop Never Stopping - Box Office Review

Sometimes a film is made that looks so terrible it might be magical. The tone of the previews, the preview itself, the leading actors all appear to be making something so ridiculous and absurd you question the legitimacy of the thing you're seeing. Perhaps you even wonder, "Is this real? This can't be real." So to what levels of nonsense did "Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping" reach? Let's dive in and take a look in this box office review...

I walked into this film as part of a double feature day. I basically spent my afternoon in the movies which is fine because how else would I write these reviews if I'm not actually spending time at the movies? Anyway, I wasn't sure what to expect from this film except to believe that this would be one of those comedies that is either so over the top it becomes a cult classic or a complete and utter failure that has me debating leaving the theater mid movie. I was wrong. I don't believe it will become a cult classic but I also wasn't considering a mid movie walk out. Instead, I was delighted to find this film actually applied serious thought to being more than just a ridiculous, over the top, nonsensical piece of cinematic trash.

The writing dared to explore pop culture and the effect of "celebrity" on individuals in a way that was poignant and humorous. I was surprised at how thought out the basic concepts of this film were and how they were able to make psychology fun. Don't misunderstand me. This film is not an intelligent exploration of human relationships and the positive and negative effects of increased importance in society and the internal alterations that occur in people who are deemed worthy of mass appeal. We are treated, however, to a comedy so unbelievable that the real moments that occur on screen are believable and thought provoking.

This film is almost certainly guaranteed to offend someone, if not everyone at some point. The jokes pull no punches and go straight to topics that too many people feel are "off limits" which makes this comedy even more enjoyable for me personally. The language is colorful. The characters exaggerated. The songs singable, sort of. This movie embraced itself and lived up to the expectation I had for it. Everyone who made this knew exactly what type of film it was and delivered on that very well.

"Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping" is in theaters now! I don't for one second recommend a big screen viewing. I do think that Redbox of VOD is perfectly acceptable only if you enjoy inappropriate, absurd, crude humor that most people shy away from. If you can laugh at almost anything, this film is for you. If you think certain topics shouldn't be made light of, do not watch this film unless you want to be offended. You have been warned. I enjoyed this movie. I laughed a lot and also found myself laughing louder than normal at some of the jokes. Also, this film crams musical celebrity after musical celebrity into it at one point or another. Plus seeing Justin Timberlake as a weird chef was fun.

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Monday, June 13, 2016

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows - Box Office Review

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2 is certainly not like its predecessor “TMNT2 Secret of the Ooze” from 1991. It does have some of the same characters but that’s about where the similarities ended for me. I didn’t see the first film of this new franchise in theaters but I did enjoy it as a rental. It had some fun moments that were surprising and so I decided to make my way to a theater to see the sequel. So let’s dive in and take a look at my thoughts on “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows”…

First, the characters in this film were paint by numbers. They even go so far as to state which character portrays which attribute (brain, heart, muscle, etc.) in blatant plain language towards the end of the film, and kinda in the second act as the tension builds. The two main villains were poorly written also. The fact certain events take place towards the end of the third act were no surprise. However, a younger viewer who is just getting into film or these characters might have felt some surprise and for them I hope it worked. People should be excited to see certain films and I feel this movie was targeted toward a younger audience and I hope they enjoyed it. Personally it felt very predictable, but again this film wasn’t made for someone like me. So with that in mind I hope it does work well for the targeted audience. I grew up on the Ninja Turtles and because of that I want these films to succeed because I love these characters.

Bebop and Rocksteady… I was as annoyed with these two as I was with the “Twins” in Transformers. These two were so obnoxious and annoying. They weren’t henchman. They were over talkative, ignorant blow hards. It was almost unbearable to hear them speak throughout the film. Complete trash and a waste of screen time. Now, Stephen Amell on the other hand was a breath of fresh air. Sure, he was definitely not the Casey Jones I grew up watching or reading in comics. All that aside, I enjoyed the new take on his character. A down on his luck cop who just wants to be a detective but (cliche city) his superiors didn’t believe him and suspended him. Again, this is not a well written film but it was entertaining. Also, Stephen Amells interactions with the turtles was fun and humorous. They goofed with his character in a similar way you’d see brothers teasing the youngest, more innocent and naive sibling. It was entertaining and comical. I did have a few laughs watching those scenes.

Megan Fox and Will Arnett were exactly who they were in the first film with a slight twist because of what occurred in the first film. Will is as funny as you’d expect and Megan is as hot as we’ve come to enjoy. The only “sexy” scene she has is in the trailers and because of that, you don’t necessarily need to see this film if you’re looking for multiple sexy Fox scenes. She is who she is and her character isn’t distracting or insufferable.

Krang was a fun villain. I was not sure what to expect being that we’ve never seen his character in live action before. I enjoyed the fact that his plan was to bring the Technodrome to earth because that was a fantastic toy to play with as a kid. However, that story was short lived and the film ends EXACTLY the same as the first story. Which was such a bummer! I was so disappointed. Honestly, the film wasn’t great but the fact the endings were the same really didn’t speak well for the franchise.

“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows” is in theaters now! If you’re into the Turtles and special effect films this is a fun one to see on the big screen. If you want a good story with exciting dialogue and three dimensional characters avoid this film like the plague. The end battle scene is a visual treat so for that reason alone I’d recommend a big screen viewing but overall the movie isn’t that great. If you’ve got a home theater system that you really enjoy you’d probably enjoy this more on VOD or Redbox.

Sunday, April 17, 2016

Barbershop: The Next Cut - Box Office Review

The third film in the franchise returns to the question which asks us to evaluate how important is a neighborhood hangout for the community. Can a group of people committed to an idea really make a difference for the people they care most about? The dialogue between characters is honest and the movie doesn't ask much from its audience. So let's dive in a take a look at "Barbershop: The Next Cut" in this box office review...

First, the characters continue to entertain us as we join the journey they take in the neighborhood and the barbershop. Each character is fairly one dimensional which would normally be a negative. However, in this story the one dimensional aspect actually works in favor of the story because it felt like each one had a specific role to play in the overall film.

The movie is straight forward and very paint by numbers. You don't have to think much about the story because it's predictable. That being said, the dialogue between characters will make you think. The conversations between the different individuals is thought provoking. It's simple language but honest in how real people feel in real situations which again works well for this movie.

I'm not entirely certain this film is a theater must see but if you do decide to see this on the big screen you'd probably enjoy it just as much at matinee prices. It's a touching film that exposes some heartfelt moments and explores the relationships between family, friends and even enemies. It even shows what can be achieved when you have the strength of spirit and heart to boldly take a chance and trust that your passion is shared by those around you.

At times this movie felt like it was almost "made for tv" but that didn't take away from the charm it had. The real strength this film carried was the believability of the situations the characters were going through and the reactions they gave us as they each tried to figure out the next step for their life. Plus, the amount of comedic moments in the film really help lighten up the mood and keep the story moving forward. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I actually laughed out loud during this film.

"Barbershop: The Next Cut" is in theaters now! If you see it on the big screen or wait for a home viewing you won't be disappointed knowing this is a charming, simple film that looks at life in plain terms. There's good decisions and bad decisions that we all can make but it's what decision we make that could help or hinder our community. If you want a film that will allow you to turn your brain off and escape into a new reality this isn't that style of movie. This challenges you to think about life from different points of view and then decide what would be best for you, your friends, family and community.

Tuesday, April 12, 2016

Midnight Special - Box Office Review

Initially I was more curious than excited about this film because an indie science fiction film doesn't sound too believable. Science Fiction films typically have high budgets for special effects and indie films are lower budget films. I imagined a cheaply made, visually lacking B movie spectacular that would end up being the butt of jokes instead of an entertaining thrill ride. After doing some research on this movie my curiosity turned to excitement so let's jump in and take a look at "Midnight Special" in this box office review...

First, let's look at the cast of this film. We've got some heavy hitting talent in this film which helped elevate the emotionally intense moments that occur throughout the film. Michael Shannon plays "Roy" the father who is trying to protect his child at all costs. His portrayal of the father was incredible. His character ran the gambit of emotions and who better than Michael Shannon to capture all these feelings on screen for us. Fear, anger, rage, love, sorrow and more. Next we have Joel Edgerton who plays his partner in crime trying to keep his friends son safe from religious nut jobs and the federal government. This character was much more subtle and he seemed to provide the trustworthiness you would need in order to be the right hand in a situation this delicate. The shining star of this film was Jaeden Lieberher. This kid can act! He had innocent curiosity, fear, panic, love, compassion, determination and physical pain all on screen. I left the theater impressed with the acting chops he brought to this film. Sharing screen time with the talents of Michael and Joel and holding your own is no small task and Jaeden delivered. Keeps your eyes open for this young man in future films.

The story is simple. A child is deemed "special" because he can speak in tongues, has a curious ability to communicate with electronic devices and can communicate using light spectrums that shoot from his eyes into yours. He's hailed as a savior to one religious group who lives on a ranch and the federal government see him as a threat.

Overall, the bulk of this film is pretty simple special effects. It was more practical fist fights, gun shots, car chases, etc. There are a few key moments where the special effects shine and I won't get into those moments because it would spoil certain mysteries in the film that are revealed by the end of the movie. That being said, when the special effects are on display they look incredible. I was thrilled with how good this movie looks from start to finish. It's dark and eery and then bright and brilliant. This is a journey in all respects.

"Midnight Special" is in theaters now! I contend this film will be in my Top 10 favorite films of the year. There is so much to enjoy and if you favor indie and science fiction films this will delight you. It starts a little slow but that is short lived. This is one of those films you need to see on the big screen. It's worth the time and money.

Monday, April 11, 2016

Miles Ahead - Box Office Review

A passion project that took close to, if not, 10 years to make. This indie film explores the life of jazz great Miles Davis during the period in the 1970's when he was trying to find his new sound. This film explores his life during his time working with Gil Evans and then flash forward to the films present day. I was excited to see this film because I love the music of Miles Davis, plus the cast of this film I enjoy. So let's jump in and takes a look at "Miles Ahead" in this box office review...

The core of this film is Don Cheadle and Ewan McGregor and their performances as Miles Davis and journalist Dave Brill. I thought going into this film I was going to enjoy a movie about Miles Davis music but what I got was something so much more. This was an examination on his life during a period of difficulty and turmoil blended with his music. Don Cheadle gives us an incredible look at two different personalities. The early, well dressed, suit wearing Miles Davis and the drug addict, long haired, paranoid recluse Miles Davis.

The character study on a brilliant musician who loses his true love due to drugs, alcohol, paranoia and possibly even schizophrenia was fascinating. This film dives deep into the mind of a genius who is on the edge and trying to find his new sound. A complicated man who feels that life is all about moving forward and not dwelling on the past, we see a struggle in achieving his own beliefs. This violent, paranoid portrayal is complimented by Ewan's performance as a somewhat balanced journalist who is trying to get the story no one else can get.

The flash backs in this film make things a little choppy at times because we are being thrown back and forth so often. Fortunately, we are able to discern which is the films present time and past because of the dramatic difference in appearance that "Miles" has. I was personally happy to see a scene in Columbia recording studios working on an album with famed producer Gil Evans. I love those recordings so to see them being replicated on screen was a delight for me personally.

"Miles Ahead" is theaters now! If you enjoy bio pics this is a must see. If you enjoy character study films, a must see. This film even has some action, car chases and gun play to keep things exciting. This isn't just a film about a musician making music. This is a film that explores the mind of a genius who is destroying himself while trying to find himself. This film resonated with me and I was not prepared for the emotional impact it would have on me when I walked into the theater. Even if you aren't a fan of indie films, you should consider watching this movie. So stop reading and get to viewing!

Sunday, April 10, 2016

Gods of Egypt - Box Office Review

I had zero interest in seeing this film. The controversy surrounding the film, plus the online tirade the director had about people not liking his film all turned my attention elsewhere. I did receive a free ticket and the movie theater employees I speak with all had good things to say about this movie. So into the theater I went, with an open mind and low expectations for a quality film. So let's jump in and take a look at "Gods of Egypt" in this box office review...

The first thing, and possibly the most important aspect, regarding this film is that it does not take place here on our planet Earth. This is an else world tale where the planet is flat like a monopoly board and the sun is moved around the earth by the sun god Ra. As soon as this is realized it helps alleviate some apprehension with how serious a film this could be. It should also be noted that the sun god Ra is using a space ship (or space boat) to pull the sun by use of some mystical chain. Periodically a mysterious space alien also shows up and attempts to eat the flat planet like the inhabitants are all toppings on some flat bread pizza. However, the sun god Ra shoots blasts of sun fire at the alien saving the day and preventing this giant space worm-thing from devouring earth and her inhabitants.

The characters in this film are pretty standard and two dimensional which wasn't necessarily a bad thing because it felt like the parts were acted appropriately for the film. I didn't find myself groaning or rolling my eyes in disbelief at these characters which was a positive. There wasn't great acting but it was fine for what this film is. Also, at some points, I found the two young lovers played by Brenton Thwaites and Courtney Eaton to be quite charming. They had a fun chemistry which was a delightful and refreshing.

Overall, the story of the film is fairly pretty straight forward. It's written like a mythological story about gods and humans would be I felt. The gods battle each other for rule of earth and a human is charged with aiding a god to help achieve their goal and save all reality. The story was entertaining and the characters were all unique in their own particular way. The two female gods who rode giant snakes were poorly acted but other than that, the god of wisdom was a fun character and some of the fight scenes were visually entertaining.

"Gods of Egypt" is in theaters now! The special effects in this film on the big screen is worthwhile but this movie can easily be just as enjoyable in the comfort of your home. If your opposed to the idea of this film because there's no black people, you should see this film because there's plenty of black people. The god of wisdom is black. So if that's your only reservation to seeing this film, rent it on Redbox. If you enjoyed the "Mummy" series a few years back you'll enjoy this film. It's got the classic ancient Egypt/fantasy cheesy score and it works perfectly. Again, rent it on Redbox. This is a fun film and it doesn't ask a lot of you, the viewer. This is the perfect Sunday afternoon on the couch film if you enjoy fantasy movies. It's not a great movie but it is a fun movie. It definitely is entertaining.

Saturday, March 19, 2016

London Has Fallen - Box Office Review

In a previous box office review I wrote about how a film can lose that special something if it's too cliche'. The film that takes itself seriously and then decides to forgo that mentality and welcomes in predictable, over used, unimaginative moments either in story or characters are no bueno folks. However, if a film accepts the cliche' as part of the overall tone of the movie it can work and can also be enjoyable. So let's dive in and take a look at "London Has Fallen" and why in this case the cliche' worked.

I have a special place in my heart for the over the top action films that celebrate the fact that they are precisely that and nothing more. The story is minimal. The characters are primarily superficial and lack depth. The action is nonstop and the pace of the film is heart racing, popcorn devouring, can't look away because I'll miss an explosion incredible. This movie was all of that in London, England. If you decide at all to leave your sit for a restroom break you will miss something blowing up or exploding. It could be a grenade. A building could explode. A car bomb might detonate causing the car to fly into the air and smash other cars. Finally, you could miss a bridge going kaboom and collapsing into the river. It's mayhem and it's fun.

Next we have the dialogue of the characters which was so ridiculous it was incredible. We had lines like, "they should've brought more men" or "is that all you've got" and my personal favorite "get to the chopper!"There was no substance but this film wasn't trying to achieve substance in conversation. The characters were just as cheese as the film and it worked. You could put earbuds in and jam out to your favorite artist while watching this movie and still enjoy it. Visually, this was an entertaining time in the theater.

Now, this is a sequel and I should confess that I didn't see the original. After enjoying this film I do want to Redbox "Olympus has Fallen" and see how it stacks up, action wise, to this follow up adventure. If it's chaos spectacular like it's follow I will be happy. This film wasn't designed to do anything but give you all the action you can handle and then just a little bit more.

"London Has Fallen" is theaters now! I recommend you use the restroom before watching this film. You won't want to miss a second of the action if you're into cheesy action films. If you want a movie with tons of gun play, car chases, explosions and cheesy cliche' dialogue this is a film for you. If you want to see buildings collapse, bridges get destroyed and see London in flames this is a film for you. You won't be disappointed if all you want is action.

Sunday, March 6, 2016

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot - Box Office Review

Based on a true story, "Whiskey Tango Foxtrot" (or WTF for short) takes us on a reporters journey documenting the war in Afghanistan in the early 2000's. The film shows the relationship foreign journalists share while covering a volatile country in the midst of conflict with American military forces. We are also treated to some cultural and political normalcies to the region that might seem, literally, foreign to anyone not from the area. This film stars Tina Fey and one might assume it's a comedy, like I did, but it is not. This is a dramatic and at times intense look at the day to day life of individuals in Kabul during the Afghan War.

This movie has a star studded cast. I didn't realize going into the theater how many talented actors were going to be on screen. Alfred Molina, Martin Freeman, Margot Robbie and Billy Bob Thornton are the main characters who share screen time with Tina to make this a dramatic and occasionally humorous film. Each actor played their part well and was unique in their on screen personality which helped shape the overall feel of "WTF" in a way that I haven't quite seen, yet, this year. To be fair, I haven't really watched a documentary style film this year until this one. This set the bar reasonably high for all other movies similar to "WTF" being released this year.

The fact this movie is based on a true story helps elevate the intensity that might otherwise seem flat or cliche'. The moments where we see the spirit and fight of Tina's character were small treasures in this film. Each moment usually had Billy Bob's character with a snarky remark that was humorous which helped relieve some of the tension. The back forth dialogue between those two was fun. Also, seeing Freeman as a heavy drinking, womanizing Scotsman was humorous. Finally, while Margot Robbie is a talented actress she is also insanely attractive which was part of her character in this movie. So, it worked.

"Whiskey Tango Foxtrot" is in theaters now! If you enjoy the dramatic, documentary style film that has humor peppered throughout I recommend you support this film by seeing it in theaters. It's a decent film that has talented actors who help bring this story to life. There's perspectives in this film you might not get from other movies this year and for that reason I also recommend you see this movie in theaters. However, if you catch it on Redbox that's ok too. This isn't a special effects heavy film that demands big screen viewings. The characters are all acted well and the story is based on real life events, while still being entertaining. Plus, we get to see a Tina Fey that I don't believe we have seen on camera before and that's a good thing.

Sunday, February 21, 2016

Race - Box Office Review

Racism. Nazism. Athleticism. Olympians and bravery. The film "Race" based on the life of Gold Medal winning, American hero, Jessie Owens was everything I wanted to experience when I walked in the theater. This movie might not set box office records for dollars earned in February but Focus Features has delivered an emotionally moving film that highlights the American "can do" spirit of achieving the improbable. The success of this film rests on the performances director Stephen Hopkins was able to get from the cast. The story I knew and because of that I wanted actors who could transport me into this time of world history. Mission accomplished.

Jason Sudeikis was the main reason I saw this film. I was curious if he would have the range to deliver a performance worthy of the important themes in the movie. He did in my opinion. He plays the coach to Jessie Owens at Ohio State University. The scene where he and Stephan James (Jessie Owens) are arguing about the importance of Jessie going to the olympics was raw, truthful and powerful. When he yells at Jessie Owens that he doesn't care about race politics he only cares about Jessie winning gold medals and he's immediately cut off by Jessie yelling he's not black so of course it's not important to him... the theater fell silent. This film had many valuable ideas of race politics, friendships and respect. Bring some kleenex too. There's emotional moments strewn throughout.

The real prize of this film was Shanice Banton who plays Jessie's true love. I fell in love with her character so quickly that it made sense to see how much Jessie loved her. Her character was endearing, charming and genuine. Along with her, Jeremy Irons and William Hurt were equally entertaining. They provided the political challenges present with the olympic committee and the worlds response to Nazi Germany hosting the 1936 Olympics. The back and forth debate scene regarding America's potential stance in the games was fascinating. The pro's and con's being discussed on each side with equally matched passion took this film to the next level. It went from being a film about race in America to human rights on a global scale.

"Race" is in theaters now! I give this film all the gold medals Jessie Owens actually won in real life. It's not a dynamic oscar award winning film but it delivers on capturing the spirit of the time in our history. The characters are all well acted, the story is told in a way that allows the audience to feel and think and who doesn't like seeing the Nazi's lose? Most of the world enjoys watching Hitler defeated so there's something for most everyone in this historical tale of the 1936 Olympics. There are even actual photos of Jessie Owens during the end credits sequence which were a nice final touch to a quality film.

Monday, February 15, 2016

Zoolander 2 - Box Office Review

Here's the thing, sometimes you decide that fast food is ok for dinner. The final meal of the day doesn't always have to be gourmet, home made or delivery. The same philosophy can be applied to the movie-going experience. "Zoolander 2" was the Taco Bell or Del Taco version of quality when it comes to a cinematic experience. I walked out of the theater feeling satisfied to the point my expectations were met and additionally regretful that my hard earned dollars were spent on such poor quality entertainment.

If you enjoyed the first one, which I still do, then there's plenty of familiar comedy that will have you chuckling out loud. There's also the plethora of celebrity cameo's that were peppered throughout the film. My favorite cameo was probably the Susan Boyle appearance. That was so unexpected and timed so well I did laugh out loud. Outside of that the movie wasn't paced well, the edits were choppy and the dialogue felt like something from a teen fiction novel. I really can't recommend this film to people but if you loved the initial offering you'll appreciate moments in the sequel.

There was one silver lining to this oddly made film. Will Ferrell. Now, I know that sounds obvious but stay with me. His character was twisted and mentally deranged. This wasn't comedic. His character was actually a demented psychopath who has been plotting his revenge the entire time between films. The story for his character was also something of a brilliant criminal mastermind who is comfortable killing people and asserting his dominance to get what he wants, both mental and physical. His performance, storyline and acting actually captured my attention. Everything about his character elevated my enjoyment of the film. As soon as he arrives on screen the entire film felt like one ended and a new one began. Similar to how Josh Trank's Fantastic Four felt like two films, so did this.

"Zoolander 2" is in theaters now! I refuse to give this film any acknowledgement beyond my review. It's really not that good. It's borderline offensive to people who are overweight. The majority of the jokes don't land well. Its timing suffers. Its dialogue is cheap and to think it took over a decade to make and this was the best they could do was disappointing. At the very least, Penelope Cruz looked smoking hot in a black bathing suit towards the end of the film. Unfortunately, you had to endure the entire film for that moment. See it in theaters if you want, but I'd recommend you wait for it to be on basic cable at 2 in the morning when you're so out of your mind you won't even notice how bad this movie is. And now Penelope Cruz, because Penelope Cruz.

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