In 1979 young Donna, Tanya and Rosie graduate from OxfordUniversity -- leaving
Donna free to embark on a series of adventures throughout Europe. On her journeys, she makes the
acquaintances of Harry, Bill and Sam -- the latter whom she falls in love with,
but he's also the man who breaks her heart. In the present day, Donna's
pregnant daughter, Sophie, dreams of renovating a taverna while reuniting with
her mother's old friends and boyfriends on the Greek island of Kalokairi.
Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again is a surprisingly strong sequel to the fizzy
original.Getting the bad out of the
way, the film feels the loss of it’s A List cast from the original, the
majority of them appear but with limited screen time.Lily James carries the majority of film as
the young Donna and she’s more than capable.I do wonder if they asked Grace Gummer, one of Streep’s daughters, to
play the role since she bears such a striking resemblance to her when she was
younger.Still Lily James pulls off an
impressive performance, capturing most of Streep’s mannerisms from the original
film.The rest of the younger cast is equally
as effective portraying their older, legendary counterparts.The song selections here aren’t as strong as
the original film which is understandable since the original used nearly all
the greatest hits.Still they are catchy
enough to keep any ABBA fan smiling.The
strangest thing about Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again is how reflective and
heartfelt the film is.It’s far more
emotional than you’d expect from a sequel to a light fizzy original.Meryl Streep appears in what is an extended
cameo but her appearance packs an emotional punch and really brings the film
full circle.
Dearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas for one of my favorite things in this wide world: a new Denzel Washington movie. On the docket: The Equalizer 2.
Spoiler level here will be mild, nothing you wouldn't know from the trailers.
Righting the world's wrongs takes a personal turn for Robert McCall.
Well, dear reader(s), I would be remiss indeed if my review of a Denzel Washington movie didn't begin by mentioning just how lucky we are to have Denzel Washington doing what he does. He is one of the world's most gifted actors, and, for my money, Hollywood's greatest and most watchable leading man. However good or bad the movie, there is something incomparably special about him, and I'm pleased to report that The Equalizer 2 gives his talent a surprisingly good workout.
The Equalizer 2 boasts plenty of action, with well-choreographed fight scenes playing out against the backdrop of an impending hurricane. The climactic confrontation in the height of the storm is especially exciting. Quieter bits of character development and plot progression occasionally seem a little longer than necessary, but not enough to derail the whole. We may take for granted that Denzel will be extraordinary--and end-to-end he's no less--but The Equalizer 2 features an exchange between him and a young co-star that matches even his (or anyone else's) greatest performances, absolutely chill-inducing. Harry Gregson-Williams' brooding score and phenomenal work by the sound department perfectly compliment the movie's somber tone. If the primary plotline makes its twists a bit too obvious, there's enough greatness surrounding it that it hardly matters.
The Equalizer 2 clocks in at two hours on the dot, and is rated R for "brutal violence throughout, language, and some drug content."
The Equalizer 2 is a worthy and satisfying follow-up to the original.
Of a possible nine Weasleys, the Equalizer 2 gets eight.
Fangirl points: Denzel! (Obvs.) My gal Melissa Leo!
Dearest Blog: This weekend it was off to Marquee Cinemas for a pair of movies that were right up my alley: Skyscraper and Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation.
Spoiler level here will be mild, nothing you wouldn't know from the trailers.
First on the agenda: Skyscraper.
When the world's tallest and most technologically-advanced building is sabotaged, it's up to Security Consultant!Rock to rescue his family and take down the baddies who are after his boss.
Something you should know about Skyscraper from a glance at its one-sheet, nevermind a single trailer, is that the movie is stupid. We are talking Fast & Furious levels of epic stupid; nothing about it makes any sense in the real world. I feel like the advertising doesn't leave room for doubt, but since unrealistic expectations seem to make a great many folks unhappy with movies, I'm telling you anyway. I'm also telling you this does not in any way, shape, or form make Skyscraper a less-than-great summer blockbuster.
First we have Dwayne Johnson. The beauty of Dwayne Johnson is...well...Dwayne Johnson. By the time the CGI embers have settled, you'll find yourself believing he really could wrangle all this ridiculousness and emerge the victor. Ice that cake with his boundless charisma, and the result is always a supremely watchable film. His supporting cast hardly matters, but Neve Campbell and Chin Han are solid, while Pablo Schreiber and Kevin Rankin are even better despite being woefully underused. The kids are cute and not irritating, which is essentially all I ask of kids, onscreen and off. Skyscraper boasts terrific disaster effects and insane stunts, but the best thing I can say about the movie is it features a lead character with a disability, but never becomes *about* the disability. He's just a guy doing what he has to do, and that sort of representation in a blockbuster like this is quite encouraging. A few small warnings and negatives: If you are squeamish about heights, best sit this one out; heights don't really bother me, and I haven't closed my eyes so much since The Walk. (That's without the 3D.) Some of the action/fight sequences are too comical even for a film this over-the-top, and, despite end-to-end action, the movie does feel a little long.
Skyscraper runs 102 minutes and is rated PG13 for "sequences of gun violence and action, and for brief strong language."
Bolstered by its charismatic lead and stellar effects, Skyscraper is an exciting bit of pointless summer fun.
Of a possible nine Weasleys, Skyscraper gets six and a half.
Next up, one of my most-anticipated titles of 2018 (yeah, you heard me): Hotel Transylvania 3.
Mistaking Drac's loneliness for exhaustion, Mavis arranges a family vacation on the high seas.
Despite my intense dislike of Adam Sandler, I have always had a soft spot for the Hotel Transylvania movies. It may be that I'm predisposed to like movies about Dracula, or just that Sandlier is strictly limited to doing only one stupid voice, rather than a bunch of them, but, whatever the reason, I really, really look forward to these movies and I have loved every one.
Hotel Transylvania 3 is surprisingly original. Its humor is more amusing than laugh-out-loud funny, but sharp animation, bright colors, and lively tunes will keep kids and adults engaged. Action sequences are outstanding, with a terrific opening sequence setting a fun tone. A standout score by Mark Mothersbaugh ties up the whole thing in a charmingly creepy bow. HT3 has a sweet message that's more than adequately conveyed as it plays out, so, if I had one small quibble, it's that the movie does belabor its point a bit at the end.
Hotel Transylvania 3 clocks in at a quick 97 minutes and is rated PG for "some action and rude humor."
Hotel Transylvania continues to surprise with a third installment that may be its best yet.
Of a possible nine Weasleys, Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation gets eight.
Dearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas for what I feared would be a triple-dose of mediocrity.
Though the barre was set low, I'm pleased to report all three entries were more enjoyable than anticipated.
My opener: The First Purge.
Tracing the origins of America's most infamous holiday.
Dear reader(s), while I make every effort not to read reviews before seeing a movie, it's impossible to avoid headlines and friends' comments entirely. What I'd read going into The First Purge didn't give me much hope, but since the things I like about the Purge movies aren't necessarily the things most folks look for, I suspected I might enjoy it nonetheless. I was correct.
The First Purge is the most basic of origins stories. Paper-doll characters play out a social morality tale that is so heavy-handed as to be almost laughable. The cast is unremarkable, neither as bad as the material nor good enough to elevate it. You'll spend a good deal of time wondering what on Earth ever made Marisa Tomei sign on for this. BUT...those aren't the things that make the Purge series great. Though they're in shorter supply than in the previous two installments, The First Purge boasts striking visuals, scenes and individual shots that are gorgeous despite being violent and terrifying. There are some solid jump scares, and a minimalist score by Kevin Lax perfectly underscores the deadly night's tension. The film feels long for it's brief runtime, and it misses Frank Grillo, but it was definitely a better time than I expected.
The First Purge runs 98 minutes and is rated R for "strong, disturbing violence throughout, pervasive language, some sexuality, and drug use."
It may well be the poster child for Movies Nobody Asked For, but, for my money, The First Purge isn't nearly as bad as you've heard.
Of a possible nine Weasleys, the First Purge gets five.
Next on the docket, the Mr. Rogers documentary Won't You Be My Neighbor.
A fond look back at the world's best neighbor.
Won't You Be My Neighbor scratches the surface of the Fred Rogers story, from his humble beginnings at WQED in Pittsburgh, to national stardom, to becoming the voice to which a nation turned for advice and solace in challenging times. The film is fortunate its subject didn't need much finesse to make compelling viewing, but it's unfortunate filmmakers never dug very deep or asked many difficult questions. Interviews with family, friends, and colleagues uniformly paint a picture of a big-hearted man whose chief concern was always the well-being of children. Anyone who veers ever-so-slightly from such recollection quickly has his path righted in the interest of a tear-jerker that reminds us we're all perfect as we are, and, whatever the question, the answer is always kindness. It's a sad testament to our current state of affairs that, through 2018's eyes, Rogers' sincerity sometimes comes across a little creepy, and that his message of love and acceptance feels almost subversive.
Won't You Be My Neighbor runs a quick 94 minutes and is rated PG13 for "thematic elements and language."
Won't You Be My Neighbor isn't an especially well-done documentary, but it's a nice tribute to a man who was a huge part of many childhoods, and whose kindness and tolerance are much missed in today's increasingly mean world.
Of a possible nine Weasleys, Won't You Be My Neighbor gets six. Oh...and bring the tissues.
Fangirl points: the Banana Splits, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Rappers Delight (I'm not kidding) all make appearances in this movie.
Finally, the other side of yesterday's "unnecessary sequels" bookends, Ant-Man and the Wasp.
Pursued by both sides of the law, Scott Lang, Hope van Dyne, and Hank Pym form an uneasy alliance.
Okay, Marvel, maybe it gets a little dicey trying to meet big-screen expectations with your least-impressive super-hero, but I'm here to tell you, if the question is, "How do we fix this?" the answer is NEVER, "More Evangeline Lilly." Never, ever. Just ask the folks who made The Hobbit, m-kay?
If the first Ant-Man was a movie nobody really asked for, this sequel isn't any more necessary for having a co-headliner. However, there are some positives, so here goes. Paul Rudd is an extremely engaging lead. He's a natural at comedy and sympathetic when things turn more serious. Walton Goggins makes an able foil, and I found myself wishing for some interaction between him and the movie’s other most-watchable actor, Bobby Cannavale. (Kinda-spoiler alert: Cannavale's Paxton being the most minor of minor characters, that doesn't really happen.) It's always great to see David Dastmalchian, too. Ant-Man and the Wasp is well and properly funny; like Thor: Ragnarok, it's as much straight-up comedy as super-hero movie, and the humor never seems awkward or ill-timed.
There are some nifty effects, though the 3D is rather pointless. The picture's biggest problem, outside of a hero that doesn't seem very super, is that the stakes seem comparatively low by Marvel standards. Every Marvel movie is able to stand on its own to a degree, but so closely on the heels of Infinity War, Ant-Man and the Wasp seems a little pointless. There are two stingers: a mid-credits scene that is material to the interconnected MCU, and a post-credits scene that's just for fun.
Ant-Man and the Wasp clocks in at 118 minutes and is rated PG13 for "some sci-fi action violence."
Ant-Man and the Wasp is another fun but disposable entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Of a possible nine Weasleys, Ant-Man and the Wasp gets five and a half.
Scott Lang is grappling with the
consequences of his choices as both a superhero and a father. Approached by
Hope van Dyne and Dr. Hank Pym, Lang must once again don the Ant-Man suit and
fight alongside the Wasp. The urgent mission soon leads to secret revelations
from the past as the dynamic duo finds itself in an epic battle against a
powerful new enemy.
Director: Peyton Reed
Cast: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael
Peña, Walton Goggins, Bobby Cannavale, Judy Greer, Tip "T.I." Harris,
Hannah John-Kamen, Abby Ryder Fortson, Randall Park, Michelle Pfeiffer,
Laurence Fishburne, Michael Douglas
Release Date: June 8, 2018
Genres: Action, Comedy, Crime
Rated PG-13 for language, drug use, and some
suggestive content Runtime: 1h 50min
Review:
Ant-man and The Wasp is an interesting
pallet cleanser after Avengers Infinity War.Its scale is markedly smaller which should come as no surprise since
it’d be hard to top the scale of Infinity War.As such, Peyton Reed delivers a fun film that’s fun but ultimately feels
inconsequential.It’s a strange
juxtaposition simply because it’s an enjoyable film that’s carried by the
cast’s endless charisma but it doesn’t really add up to much.Paul Rudd does his dead pan Paul Rudd deal
which is always fun but the film’s really boosted by Evangeline Lilly taking a
more active role in this entry.Lilly
and her perpetually rosy cheeks give the film a nice boost of energy with her
character fitting right in with Rudd’s Ant-man.Michael Peña and Walton Goggins are both solid in supporting roles, each
providing real highlights during the film.Sadly, Michelle Pfeiffer appearance is more of a cameo than anything
else.I’d have enjoyed a bit more of her
and Michael Douglas as opposed having her character essentially serve as the
film’s Mcguffin.Still, Peyton Reed
directs a fun little film that’s has some inventive action sequences and laughs
to boot.It’s not one of the best Marvel
films but it’s a solid entry.
To push the crime rate below one percent for the rest of the year, the
New Founding Fathers of America test a sociological theory that vents
aggression for one night in one isolated community. But when the violence of oppressors
meets the rage of the others, the contagion will explode from the trial-city
borders and spread across the nation.
Director: Gerard McMurray
Cast: Y'Lan Noel, Lex Scott Davis, Joivan Wade, Luna Lauren Velez,
Kristen Solis, Marisa Tomei
Release Date: July 4, 2018
Genres: Action, Horror, Sci-Fi
Rated R for strong disturbing violence throughout, pervasive language,
some sexuality and drug use
Runtime: 1h 37min
Review:
The First Purge, the 4th film in the horror franchise, is a
horror sequel that’ far better than it deserves to be.Series writer/wreator James DeMonaco’s clunky
script and characterizations, which have typified the entire franchise, is here
again delivering a horror film that about as subtle as a jackhammer.It’s never shy about letting you know what
its thinking or above pointing out specifically what it’s talking about.Still, there’s a strange effectiveness about
this entry.Director Gerard McMurray
delivers a visually impressive horror thriller that’s engaging enough to make
you overlook some of the story’s failings.The visual story playing and bloody action sequences are incredibly well
done, making for visceral experience.The cast carries themselves well even with the paper thin caricatures
they’re given.The immensely talented Y'Lan
Noel, known mostly for HBO’s Insecure, gives a noteworthy performance that’s
sure to make some people think of a 90’s era Wesley Snipes.It’s not a deep character but he makes an
impression none the less.The rest of
the supporting cast, nearly all people of color, is made up of character actors
from across the TV spectrum.The only
recognizable white face is Marisa Tomei, who’s clearly slumming it, with the
rest of the Caucasian actors coming from scary white people casting.The Purge franchise has always reminded me of
late 70s early 80s sci-fi horror films, with big ambitious, ideas in a schlocky
package.The First Purge feels like an
amalgam of those films blended with a healthy dose of blacksploitation, yet it
somehow feels timelier than the original film did 4 years ago.
Dearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas for the highly anticipated (at least by me) Sicario sequel, Day of the Soldado.
Spoiler level here will be mild, nothing plot-related that the trailers didn't give away.
In order to combat trafficking of would-be terrorists across the border, the US aims to set the Mexican drug cartels at war with one another.
The usual full and fair disclosure(s)...quite a laundry list this time! First, I love Josh Brolin. Like, I really, really love him...since the Goonies but especially since The Young Riders. He never seems to be one of the guys who comes up in the Gary Oldman-level conversation, but I've loved him so long he's practically part of my DNA, and, despite the fact that he's become a superstar with a hefty collection of accolades, I've never learned to take his position above the movie's title for granted.
Secondly, I am what is not-so-politely referred to as "part of the problem" in Hollywood. I like testosterone-fueled shoot 'em ups, and I didn't miss a female lead this time around. (No hate; I mention it only because it does color my opinion of movies.) Finally, the real world is such a shambles these days that it can be difficult to stomach films that depict some of its worst aspects, and certainly it's never easy to be reminded how awful your own government can be. I was pretty twitchy through Day of the Soldado's opening scene, but I was able to get lost in the story quickly, troublesome as the subject matter is.
Onward: Sicario: Day of the Soldado is a solid follow-up to one of 2015's better surprises. The movie loses a bit of momentum in its second act, but, thanks to well-maintained tension, a fully-utilized runtime, and amazing performances all 'round, it never really lets go of your attention. An implausible twist nearly derails the whole shebang (my cinema actually laughed out loud during the grim scene, certainly not the filmmakers' intention), but the film quickly regains its footing.
Brolin and co-star Benicio Del Toro are riveting, and, like the original, Day of the Soldado boasts extraordinary cinematography (this time by the incomparable Dariusz Wolski), and a phenomenal score by Hildur Guonadottir. This felt like the first time in a very, very long time I was truly excited to get out to the movies, and Sicario: Day of the Soldado did not disappoint. Also, small spoiler alert: Josh Brolin eating noodles like he's never seen food before is my new porn.
Sicario: Day of the Soldado clocks in at 122 minutes and is rated R for "strong violence, bloody images, and language."
Sicario: Day of the Soldado as a whole is never quite as good as some of its parts, but it met my expectations and kept me engaged to the end.
Of a possible nine Weaslesys, Sicario: Day of the Soldado gets eight.
Fangirl points: Yeah, still gotta give 'em to Josh Brolin, and also Dariusz Wolski, whose work never ceases to amaze me. AND...Shea Whigham, too!
FBI agent Matt Graver calls on mysterious operative Alejandro Gillick
when Mexican drug cartels start to smuggle terrorists across the U.S. border. The
war escalates even further when Alejandro kidnaps a top kingpin's daughter to
deliberately increase the tensions. When the young girl is seen as collateral
damage, the two men will determine her fate as they question everything that
they are fighting for.
Director: Stefano Sollima
Cast: Benicio del Toro, Josh Brolin, Jeffrey Donovan, Isabela Moner,
Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Catherine Keener
Release Date: June 29, 2018
Genres: Action, Crime, Drama
Rated R for strong violence, bloody images, and language
Runtime: 2h 3min
Review:
Sicario: Day of the Soldado is a solid sequel even though it is missing
that spark that made the original film so impressive.Losing Denis Villeneuve and Roger Deakins was
bound to leave a gap but new director Stefano Sollima tries his best to keep
the aesthetics the same and general feel of the original.Still there’s a noticeable talent gap which
is compounded by some truly bleak sequences which are as shocking as they are
rather unnecessary.The script has a
strange undercurrent of nastiness which can distract you from some strong
performances.Benicio del Toro drives
the film with an impressive showing expanding on his character from the first
film.Del Toro is always the most
interesting person on screen while Josh Brolin is a close second.Brolin adds some needed depth to his character
but the film doesn’t spend as much time cultivating it as it should.Isabela Moner is a strong child performer who
emotes fairly well even though she’s not given a ton of dialogue.Catherine Keener is given a thankless role
which wastes her considerable talents which is a real shame.The film’s twisty plot is kind of muddled and
once the film gains momentum it suddenly just ends with a door flapping open
for a sequel.It’s weird to think of
this series being a franchise but that’s where the film leads us.
Three years after the destruction of the Jurassic World theme park, Owen
Grady and Claire Dearing return to the island of Isla Nublar to save the
remaining dinosaurs from a volcano that's about to erupt. They soon encounter
terrifying new breeds of gigantic dinosaurs, while uncovering a conspiracy that
threatens the entire planet.
Director: J. A. Bayona
Cast: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, B. D. Wong, Jeff Goldblum, Rafe
Spall, Justice Smith, Daniella Pineda, James Cromwell, Toby Jones, Ted Levine,
Isabella Sermon, Geraldine Chaplin
Release Date: June 22, 2018
Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of science-fiction violence and peril
Runtime: 2h 8min
Review:
Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom is a fun if forgettable sequel in a
franchise that seems to be losing anything new to say.J. A. Boyona does a fine job directing the
film, infusing it with some of his horror sensibilities.The film is a collection of big set pieces,
at times it feels like the film’s plot is merely an excuse to move from one set
piece to another.The story itself is
rather silly and the more you think about it the dumber it is.The new characters and villains are all about
as paper thin and clichéd as they come.Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard continue to share strong chemistry
which is a strong point of the film.They
both have plenty to do this go around so they’re fully engaged even though it’s
a bit of a shame that the movie wasn’t slightly better.The supporting cast is made of strong name
actors but the film doesn’t seem interested is using them for anything
substantial.Jurassic World: Fallen
Kingdom is one of those sequels that is easily forgettable because it lacks
anything memorable about itself which is a shame because there’s clearly talent
on hand.
One month every year,
five highly competitive friends hit the ground running for a no-holds-barred
game of tag -- risking their necks, their jobs and their relationships to take
one another down. This time, the game coincides with the wedding of the only
undefeated player. What should be an easy target soon becomes an all-out war as
he knows they're coming to get him.
Director: Jeff Tomsic
Cast: Ed Helms, Jake
Johnson, Hannibal Buress, Jon Hamm, Jeremy Renner, Annabelle Wallis,
Isla Fisher, Rashida Jones, Leslie Bibb
Release Date: June 15, 2018
Rated R for language
throughout, crude sexual content, drug use and brief nudity
Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min.
Genres: Comedy
Review:
Tag is one of those goofy
comedies that shouldn’t work because of the flimsy premise but it succeeds more
often than not.Jeff Tomsic creates a
fun little film that moves along at a steady pace with the “tag” sequences
standing out for ingenuity.The film’s
biggest asset is it’s collection of stars.They all share good comedic timing and chemistry together.The jokes go off in fairly rapid fire manner
with the movie never lingering too much on anything to avoid stagnation.Its breezy style makes it easier to overlook
some of the horrible things these friends do to each other.Still it makes for a funny movie that’s got a
beating heart underneath it’s crude exterior.There are a few dead spots here and there but nothing damning even
though they could have used female members of the cast a bit more.Same complaints aside, Tag is a surprisingly
funny film that doesn’t disappoint.
Dearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas for Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.
Spoiler level here will be mild, nothing you wouldn't know from the trailers.
When a volcano threatens a (re)extinction-level event, dinosaurs remaining in the shuttered park must be rescued.
Dear reader(s), in the interest of full and fair disclosure, I'll admit I'm not exactly invested in the Jurassic series. I bet there's not a single movie--not even the one that's been popping up on cable for two and a half decades--that I've watched more than once. They're definitely the sort of action-packed pictures that appeal to me, but but for some reason they've never become favorites. That being said, a new Jurassic movie is what's out this weekend, so a new Jurassic movie is what I saw, and it was...okay.
First, the pluses: I love dinosaurs. These dinosaurs look amazing. When ol' T-Rex comes at ya from the screen, it's all you can do not to back away, and that's not even in 3D! There's not nearly enough Jeff Goldblum, but no movie was ever worse for having him, even in limited quantities. Bryce Dallas Howard quickly swaps stupid heels for a very sensible pair of boots. Well done, filmmakers, on correcting my biggest complaint from the last movie! Fallen Kingdom has some decent jump scares and one particularly well-choreographed action sequence. It's always a crap-shoot with kid actors, but we've got us a tolerable one here. The movie runs a hair over two hours, but doesn't really seem that long, and Michael Giacchino provides another of his epic scores.
Now, the minuses: Really, Fallen Kingdom just isn't all that interesting. It's a done-to-death story (not always with dinos, of course), and the one-trick pony that is Chris Pratt is wearing out its welcome, at least for me. The two main supporting characters are too cartoonish to add much, and Howard is bad, just bad. In fact, the camera wastes a great deal of time lingering on the expressions of people who just aren't that...expressive. It's silly to the point of hilarity. At one point a guy down the row from me stage-whispered, "This is stupid!" I giggled, wondering if he expected Star Lord vs. T-Rex to be an intellectual pursuit, but then I thought, you know what? This IS stupid. Its execution is stupid. It's still a decent bit of summer fun, but...it should have been so much better.
Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom clocks in at 128 minutes and is rated PG13 for "intense sequences of sci-fi violence and peril."
Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom will undoubtedly continue the franchise's streak of my not watching more than once.
Of a possible nine Weasleys, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom gets five.
Everyone’s favorite family of superheroes is back in “Incredibles 2” –
but this time Helen (voice of Holly Hunter) is in the spotlight, leaving Bob
(voice of Craig T. Nelson) at home with Violet (voice of Sarah Vowell) and Dash
(voice of Huck Milner) to navigate the day-to-day heroics of “normal” life.
It’s a tough transistion for everyone, made tougher by the fact that the family
is still unaware of baby Jack-Jack’s emerging superpowers. When a new villain
hatches a brilliant and dangerous plot, the family and Frozone (voice of Samuel
L. Jackson) must find a way to work together again—which is easier said than
done, even when they’re all Incredible.
Director: Brad Bird
Cast: Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Sarah Vowell, Samuel L. Jackson, Huck
Milner, Bob Odenkirk, Catherine Keener, Jonathan Banks
Release Date: June 15, 2018
Genres: Animation, Action, Adventure
Rated PG for action sequences and some brief mild language
Runtime: 1h 58min
Review:
Incredibles 2 delivers a crowd pleasing following up to the 2004
original.The original film is a classic
on many levels so there was an incredibly high standard left to meet.Additionally, in the 14 years since the first
film came out there’s been a massive change in the movie landscape with
superhero films ruling the box office.So
the biggest question is whether or not a sequel would be as relevant or impact
full as the first film.Writer/Director
Brad Bird pulls off the monumental task with relative ease.Bird delivers a visually striking film that
keeps the stylish visuals from the first and expands on it.The film picks up right after the first film
ends and moves easily into the plots of the sequel which is filled with dense
topics like marriage equality and gender politics.It’s script runs a fine balance of generally
digestible joy and deeper themes while never becoming a bore.The voice cast from the original film all
slip back into their roles without missing a step.Newcomers Bob Odenkirk and Catherine Keener
mesh well with the cast even if their characters are slightly under served which
is one of the films few missteps.Still,
Incredibles 2 pulls off the rare feat where the sequel is a worthy follow up to
a classic.
Dearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas for a promising double-bill of Tag and Incredibles 2.
Spoiler level here will be mild, nothing you wouldn't know from the trailers.
First on my agenda, Tag.
A group of friends continues a game of tag from their high-school days three decades (and counting) into their adult lives.
While Tag's story is "inspired by actual events" rather than "based on a true story," it seems a great deal of it skates hilariously (or alarmingly) close to the truth. Based on a a group of friends from Spokane, Washington, who really have been playing the same game of tag for over 30 years, some of the picture's most outlandish tags are the ones that really happened.
Tag is a comedy, but it's more amusing than laugh-out-loud hilarious. The likable cast includes Jeremy Renner, Ed Helms, and Jon Hamm, yet I found the characters--at best--bland, and--at worst--pretty lousy people, which made it hard to enjoy their exploits. In fact, as I exited the theater, the first thing I did was jump online to check the IMDB/Rotten Tomatoes scores to see if the movie had left anyone else as flat as it had left me. (At this writing, it's got a 7.1 on IMDB and 56% on RT, so I guess it has.) The story is fascinating, and a few cool tunes pop up, but with such a terrific cast it's hard to think it shouldn't be better than it is.
Tag clocks in at 100 minutes and is rated R for "language throughout, crude sexual content, drug use, and brief nudity."
It's good for a few summer afternoon laughs and an eyeful of Jeremy Renner, but otherwise Tag is most definitely not "it."
Of a possible nine Weasleys, Tag gets five and a half.
Next up: the long-awaited sequel Incredibles 2.
In an effort to have the superhero ban lifted, Elastigirl is tapped for some high-profile missions while Mr. Incredible keeps the home fires burning.
Incredibles 2 is a sequel that is well worth the 14-year wait. The characters haven't aged onscreen, but they've aged very well in popular culture, with the stay-at-home-dad angle being a nice touch for 2018. The film's action sequences are exciting and well-choreographed, with nary a one dragging on too long. (Are you paying attention, Avengers?) Incredibles 2 features bright, crisp animation, top-notch voice talent, charming characters, and clever laughs. There's an awful little short called "Bao" that runs before the movie, so, unless you really love the pre-show or you want to grab a favorite seat, give yourself an extra five minutes to get to the theater.
Incredibles 2 runs 118 minutes and is rated PG for "action sequences and some brief, mild language."
Be advised there is one scene featuring a strobe-light effect that may adversely affect some viewers.
Incredibles 2 is a fantastic family film that (at least on first viewing) seems even better than the original. Only time will tell if it ages as well.
Of a possible nine Weasleys, Incredibles 2 gets nine.
Dearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas for Oceans 8 and Hotel Artemis, or, how best to waste some of the most talented, interesting, and beautiful actors working today.
Spoiler level here will be mild, almost nothing you wouldn't know from the trailers. (I'm giving away one (1) cameo from Oceans 8. If you don't want to know, read after you've seen it.)
First on the docket: Oceans 8.
Debbie Ocean carries on the family tradition with an all-female crew, because in 2018 Hollywood, gender-bent versions of old movies pass for new content. For the record, let it be noted that Karina and I had the idea for an all-male Charlie's Angels YEARS ago and will expect full credit when the time inevitably comes. (It's gonna be All Chris, too: Evans, Hemsworth, and Pine or Pratt...we're still agreeing to disagree there.)
Oceans 8 isn't really a good movie, nor is it a terrible movie. The one thing it absolutely *should* be is a fun movie, but, sadly, instead it's rather dull. Bad news out of the way first: These characters are AWFUL...caricatures unworthy of the least of the actresses to embody them, nevermind the goddess that is Helena Bonham Carter. The dialogue is especially awkward at the start, though it improves slightly as the movie progresses. The humor is also spotty, occasionally amusing is about as good as it gets. Even the heist itself is a letdown; it seems clever, yet its execution never feels as edge-of-your-seat as it should.
The good news is Oceans 8 is a pretty easy watch despite all that, thanks to terrific eye candy. If you're thinking I mean the lovely ladies, you're right, but the picture is also set during the annual Met Gala and is filled with all the unique and stunning fashions for which the event is famous. Then there's Richard Armitage, certainly not hard on the eyes. Call me shallow, but the combination was more than enough to hold my interest. If looking out for cameos is your bag, Oceans 8 has plenty of those too, so keep those eyes open. (Move over Kardashians, my favorite was Junior's Cheesecake!)
Oceans 8 clocks in at 110 minutes and is rated PG13 for "language, drug use, and some suggestive content."
With a lesser cast, Oceans 8 would be a passable but forgettable bit of summer escapism. Even as sub-par as it is, there are worse things than than watching some of Hollywood's best actresses punching below their weight.
Of a possible nine Weasleys, Oceans 8 gets four and a half.
Next up: Hotel Artemis.
In riot-plagued 2028 Los Angeles, a nurse runs a secret, members-only hospital for criminals.
Dear reader(s): Though it's nearly impossible to do in the Internet age, I went into Hotel Artemis cold, save for one headline that crossed my Twitter feed early yesterday: "What Made Jodie Foster Agree to Star in the Worst Movie of the Year?" So...lowered expectations, then?
I feel like I can't be the only one who's at least a little bit over the whole dystopian thing, but Hotel Artemis seemed an interesting enough idea, and a cast that features Jodie Foster, Jeff Goldblum, Sterling K. Brown, Zachary Quinto, Sofia Boutella, and Charlie Day sounds can't-miss. Sadly, like Oceans 8, Hotel Artemis gives its incredible talent only cookie-cutter characters to work with. Even the good guys are unlikable, though (with very limited screen time) Jeff Goldblum is a delight as one of the baddies. If you're squeamish about violence or language, you'll want to check in somewhere else, but if you don't mind a side of blood and F-bombs with your action and criminal machinations, Hotel Artemis is the place for you.
Hotel Artemis runs a quick 93 minutes and is rated R for "violence and language throughout, some sexual references, and brief drug use."
Hotel Artemis takes an interesting premise and turns it into a by-the-numbers thriller. It's not fair to call it the year's worst movie, but it's certainly nowhere near its best.
Of a possible nine Weasleys, Hotel Artemis gets five.
When Ellen passes away,
her daughter's family begins to unravel cryptic and increasingly terrifying
secrets about their ancestry. The more they discover, the more they find
themselves trying to outrun the sinister fate they seem to have inherited.
Director: Ari Aster
Cast: Toni Collette, Alex
Wolff, Milly Shapiro, Ann Dowd, Gabriel Byrne
Rated R for horror
violence, disturbing images, language, drug use and brief graphic nudity
Genres: Drama, Horror,
Mystery
Runtime: 2h 7min
Review:
Hereditary is a classic
horror film fans dream.Ari Aster, who
wrote and directs, is clearly a fan of 70’s and 80’s horror films and he mines
a handful of tropes to deliver an emotionally mature and nerve grinding
experience.Aster’s film is a slow burn
decent into madness.It’s efficient and
effective as it sets up the film’s plot by dropping tidbits of information here
and there.It demands the audience’s
attention, asking them to pay close attention to little details.At its center is Toni Collette who delivers
an incredible performance.Collette
gives the kind of performance that’s sure to join the annals of horror
performances like Jack Nicholson in The Shining or Mia Farrow in Rosemary’s
Baby.Milly Shapiro fills the creepy kid quotient
leaving an impression in a limited performance.Gabriel Byrne is appropriately worried throughout while Alex Wolff is
increasingly terrorized.Hereditary is
one of those films that linger with you after you leave the theater, usually
the hallmark of the best kind of horror films.
Five years, eight months, 12 days and
counting -- that's how long DebbieOcean
has been devising the biggest heist of her life. She knows what it's going to
take -- a team of the best people in the field, starting with her
partner-in-crime Lou Miller. Together, they recruit a crew of specialists,
including jeweler Amita, street con Constance, suburban
mom Tammy, hacker Nine Ball, and fashion designer Rose. Their target -- a
necklace that's worth more than $150 million.
Director: Gary Ross
Cast: Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne
Hathaway, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Awkwafina, Rihanna, Helena Bonham Carter
Release Date: June 8, 2018
Genres: Action, Comedy, Crime
Rated PG-13 for language, drug use, and some
suggestive content Runtime: 1h 50min
Review:
Ocean’s 8, the female centeric continuation
of the Ocean franchise, is an enjoyable but safe reboot.Gary Ross tries his best to capture that cool
vibe and spirit of the original film.He
delivers a glossy fizzy film that that’s about as lightweight as they
come.Sandra Bullock leads the film ably
even if her DebbieOcean
is a far call from Clooney’s DannyOcean.Bullock
performance is fine but the film undersells its lead without much
characterization, leaving her a bit of a cipher throughout.Cate Blanchett, ever the chameleon, is lots
of fun as Bullock’s partner in crime.Blanchett
and Bullock have some solid chemistry together and their plenty of fun when
they’re plotting or interacting.The
remaining members of the crew are all good fun in varying degrees of
effectiveness.Anne Hathaway leaves the
biggest impression with her self parody performance that people will either
love or hate.Ocean’s 8 is never boring
or uninteresting but it’s all so inconsequential that you’ll probably never
think about it again.
