MOVIE REVIEW: TRIPLE FRONTIER

Former Special Forces operatives reunite to plan a heist in a sparsely populated multi-border zone of South America. For the first time in their prestigious careers, these unsung heroes undertake this dangerous mission for themselves instead of the country. But when events take an unexpected turn and threaten to spiral out of control, their skills, their loyalties, and their morals are pushed to a breaking point in an epic battle for survival.

Director: J.C. Chandor

Cast: Ben Affleck, Oscar Isaac, Charlie Hunnam, Garrett Hedlund,  Pedro Pascal

Release Date: March 6, 2019

Genres: Action, Adventure, Crime

Rated R for violence and language throughout

Runtime: 2h 2 min

Review:

Triple Frontier is an engaging and well acted film that’s far better than it should be.  The plot is simple enough and you can see where things are going from the get go. A few surprises here and there keep things interesting but J.C. Chandor and the cast make it all watch able throughout.  J.C. Chandor directs the action confidently and delivers some impressively tense sequences that really make an impact.  Ben Affleck leads the cast and brings some real depth to his character.  Sadly, the script doesn’t delve enough into his character or any of the others.  It’s a shame because each of the cast members is fully committed to their roles and deserved far meatier roles than they were given.  As such, it’s an enjoyable and watch able but frustrating at the same time because you can’t shake the feeling there’s a far better film in there somewhere.  As is, it’s still a solid throwback to some of the manly 80s and 90s action flicks even if it’s not quite the top tier.

B-

Cindy Prascik's Review of Triple Frontier

Thanks to the Death Plague currently decimating my office, this week I was able to catch the Netflix original film Triple Frontier.

Spoiler level here will be mild, nothing you wouldn't know from the trailer.

Having various degrees of success readjusting to civilian life, a suspiciously-handsome group of ex-Special Forces soldiers plans to steal a drug lord's ill-gotten gains.

Triple Frontier is just the sort of picture that still gets me out to the cinema: a big, shoot-em-up actioner with testosterone to spare, kinda like the Expendables, only with smaller people who take themselves a little more seriously.

Given my dwindling tolerance for the movie-going public, it's my good fortune that Netflix gave me the opportunity to catch this in the comfort (and quiet) of my own home.

While they aren't all exactly A-List, the aforementioned smaller people--Ben Affleck, Oscar Isaac, Charlie Hunnam, Pedro Pascal, and Garrett Hedlund--have a fair bit of big-screen cred among them. Each has his moment(s) to shine, and none is better or worse than exactly what the material requires. Triple Frontier is certainly action packed, yet at times I was surprised how slow it seemed. It's good that there's more going on than just gunfights and explosions (she says, grudgingly), but somehow the bits that *aren't* gunfights and explosions don't quite earn their keep. Part of the problem is that the trailer sells a heist film, but the actual heist is a relatively small part of the story; the majority of the film's runtime is burned on what follows. Effects and action/fight choreography are solid, but even the movie's most meaningful dialogue is awkward and stilted. Despite any other failings, the film boasts a groovy soundtrack and does a good job of sustaining tension right up to a predictable finish.

Triple Frontier clocks in at 125 minutes and is rated R for "violence and language throughout." It may not be the best movie of the year, but Triple Frontier holds its own.

Of a possible nine Weasleys, Triple Frontier gets seven.

Fangirl points: You guys...CHARLIE HUNNAM! Until next time...

Cindy Prascik's Review of If I Leave Here Tomorrow: A Film About Lynyrd Skynyrd

Today I was fortunate to catch If I Leave Here Tomorrow: A Film About Lynyrd Skynyrd, on Showtime.

If I Leave Here Tomorrow is a loving but unflinching look at the band Lynyrd Skynyrd.

This film documents well known events, so kindly expect "spoilers" if you are unfamiliar with Lynyrd Skynyrd's story.

If I Leave Here Tomorrow focuses on the band's humble beginnings on the wrong side of the tracks in Jacksonville, Florida, through its mid- to late-70s heyday, but beginning, middle, and end are touched by the tragic 1977 plane crash that claimed the lives of six people, including three band members.

If I Leave Here Tomorrow blends new and old interviews with terrific photos, video clips, newsreel footage, and excerpts from what appear to be home videos. How lucky we are that someone captured so much in an era long before everyone had a video camera in their pockets! The movie plays to a backdrop of both better- and lesser-known Skynyrd tunes.

Filmmakers and band members alike clearly revere founding lead singer and songwriter Ronnie Van Zant, but that doesn't stop the movie from touching on his violent darker side. Still, it's clear to this day that Skynyrd members new and old feel Van Zant's vision as the driving force behind the band.

Band members prove to be mostly good interviews, telling entertaining stories of hard-working early years and the debauchery that fame brought. More than a couple of their remarks may surprise those who take the band only at face value. Harrowing first-person accounts of the plane crash are almost certain to bring the hardest-hearted viewer to tears. Today, when such hard lines strive to define and divide us, it's fantastic to watch this band of hippie-hillbilly-bluesmen erase all such barriers.

If I Leave Here Tomorrow: A Film About Lynyrd Skynyrd clocks in at 95 minutes and is rated TV14. (There's some rough language and a good bit of drinking and drug use.)

If I Leave Here Tomorrow: A Film About Lynyrd Skynyrd is a story told with love, but it does not tiptoe around the band's less-flattering moments. It's a well-crafted picture that truly does these legendary artists justice. Of a possible nine Weasleys, If I Leave Here Tomorrow gets nine.

If I Leave Here Tomorrow is currently running on Showtime's family of networks, and is available on Showtime On Demand and Showtime Anytime. 40+ years and many hard losses since the plane crash of 1977, Lynyrd Skynyrd is in the midst of what it is calling its "farewell" tour, slated to wrap up in September.

Fangirl points: I've met a lot of people, specifically a lot of famous people, specifically-specifically a lot of famous musicians, and Johnny Van Zant is one of the nicest people I have ever met!

Until next time...

MOVIE REVIEW: CAPTAIN MARVEL

Captain Marvel is an extraterrestrial Kree warrior who finds herself caught in the middle of an intergalactic battle between her people and the Skrulls. Living on Earth in 1995, she keeps having recurring memories of another life as U.S. Air Force pilot Carol Danvers. With help from Nick Fury, Captain Marvel tries to uncover the secrets of her past while harnessing her special superpowers to end the war with the evil Skrulls.

Director: Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck

  

Cast: Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Mendelsohn, Djimon Hounsou, Lee Pace, Lashana Lynch, Gemma Chan, Annette Bening, Clark Gregg,  Jude Law

  

Release Date: March 8, 2019

  

Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi

  

Rated PG-13 for sequences of sci-fi violence and action, and brief suggestive language

  

Runtime: 2h 4 min

  

Review:

Captain Marvel is a solid if bland origin story.  That's not to say that there isn't fun to be had but the plot does telegraph some of the biggest reveals.  At the center of the film is Brie Larson who is typically a strong performer.  Here though, she's mostly wooden and she never really gives her character much personality.  As such, the titular character and star isn't all that interesting for the majority of the film.  Thankfully the supporting characters give the film a lot more life.  Sam Jackson finally gets his proper due in the MCU by giving us a look at Nick Fury as a young SHEILD agent.  The film is at its best when it pairs Larson and Jackson in a sort of buddy comedy, which really gives the film some life.  The real surprise though is a Ben Mendelsohn who brings a lot more to the table than you'd expect.  His character looks like a standard baddie but there's much more depth at play than at first glance.  Throw in a scene stealing cat and you get film that's better in it's final act than it was in the previous two portions.  The soundtrack is bound to make certain people nostalgic even if it plays like a copy of "Now that's what I call Music 90s."  Ultimately the film does a workman like job of checking all the boxes on a origin film but with a clever feminist twist even if it's not a natural or organic as say Wonder Woman.

B- 

MOVIE REVIEW: GRETA

Frances finds a handbag on the New York subway and promptly returns it to Greta, an eccentric French piano teacher who loves tea and classical music. Having recently lost her mother, young Frances strikes up a seemingly harmless friendship with the lonely and kindly widow who enjoys her company. But when Greta's behavior becomes increasingly erratic and obsessive, Frances does whatever it takes to end the toxic relationship before things spirals out of control.

Director: Neil Jordan

Cast: Isabelle Huppert, Chloë Grace Moretz, Maika Monroe, Colm Feore, Stephen Rea

Release Date: March 1, 2019

Genres: Drama, Horror, Mystery

Rated R for some violence and disturbing images

Runtime: 1h 38 min

Review:

Greta is one of those odd ball thrillers that pulls you in because of the talent assembled but never provides anything new or groundbreaking.  Neil Jordan’s film is wonderfully shot which makes it look far better than it deserves.  So it has a nice glossy veneer that elevates the subject matter even when it’s at its most ridiculous.  Isabelle Huppert is a decorated actress fully capable of playing this role in her sleep and she makes the entire thing run even if you do wonder why such an acclaimed actress is slumming it in such routine Fatal Attraction/Single White Female knock off. Chloë Grace Moretz is solid overall even though her and Huppert’s characters are so thinly written that there’s very little depth to either of them.  Maika Monroe makes the most of her supporting role even making more nuanced as the film moves around.  Ultimately, Greta is one of those films that pops up on cable down the road and is just interesting enough to keep you from changing the channel.         

C+

Cindy Prascik's Reviews of Fighting with My Family / How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World

This weekend there were two new movies on offer at the local cinema: Fighting with My Family and How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World.

I had high hopes for both, and I was not disappointed.

Spoiler level here will be mild, nothing you wouldn't know from the trailers.

First on my agenda: Fighting with My Family.

A family in a small English town dreams of wrestling glory.

Fighting with My Family is based on the true story of Paige, a young woman from a wrestling family in Norwich, England, who dreams of making it to wrestling's biggest stage, the WWE. Fighting with My Family turns a rather charmless subject into a sweet film about family and dedication. Stephen Merchant directs his first feature with the hand of an old pro, and the movie never drags despite being somewhat predictable. Young star Florence Pugh is terrific in the lead, but it's Nick Frost and Lena Headey who really steal the show, playing parents that are as desperate and sometimes clueless as they are supportive. Authentic-looking training and match sequences provide a good foundation, and Merchant's hilarious and endearing script offers plenty of laughs and sweet moments too. Despite the presence of mega-superstar Dwayne Johnson, the movie manages to feel intimate and very much attached to its English roots, a genuinely joyful cinema experience.

Fighting with My Family runs 108 minutes and is rated PG13 for "crude and sexual material, language throughout, some violence and drug content.

Fighting with My Family is a charmer that may end up one of the year's best films. Of a possible nine Weasleys, Fighting with My Family gets eight.

Fangirl points: Iron Maiden sure sounds fine in surround sound!

Next on the docket: How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World.

The final adventure of Toothless and Hiccup.

Yeah, I cried just writing it.

The first installment in the How to Train Your Dragon series is one of four movies that I consider my favorite of all time. It is perfection, and part of me always felt it should have been left at that, rather than risk being tarnished by further features. The middle film in the franchise didn't set well with me at all--one of my biggest cinema disappointments--so it's fair to say I was pretty nervous about The Hidden World. I am pleased to report my concerns were unfounded.

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World brings this epic story to a fitting end, giving each character enough screen time that fans won't feel shorted on any front. Hell, even David Tennant's Spitelout has a couple lines this time! (I think he had one word in the first one and nothing in the second.) While I still contend the tale told in the first film was perfection that didn't require addenda, The Hidden World manages to flesh out the story and bring it to a natural close. Voice talent is on point, and the addition of F. Murray Abraham as the Big Bad could only ever be a plus. There's action to spare, but also plenty of quiet moments. Visuals are absolutely stunning, and John Powell again provides a magnificent, soaring score. You'll want to see this one again and again...I know I do!
How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World clocks in at 104 minutes and is rated PG for "adventure action and some mild rude humor."

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World is a perfect ending to a near-perfect franchise.

Of a possible nine Weasleys, How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World gets nine.

Until next time...

MOVIE REVIEW: HAPPY DEATH DAY 2U

Collegian Tree Gelbman wakes up in horror to learn that she's stuck in a parallel universe. Her boyfriend Carter is now with someone else, and her friends and fellow students seem to be completely different versions of themselves. When Tree discovers that Carter's roommate has been altering time, she finds herself once again the target of a masked killer. When the psychopath starts to go after her inner circle, Tree soon realizes that she must die over and over again to save everyone.

Director: Christopher Landon

Cast: Jessica Rothe, Israel Broussard, Phi Vu, Rachel Matthews, Suraj Sharma, Ruby Modine

Release Date: February 13, 2019

Genres: Horror, Mystery, Thriller

Rated PG-13 for violence, language, sexual material and thematic elements.

Runtime: 1h 40 min

Review:

Happy Death Day was one of those rare surprises in the horror genre that just come out of nowhere.  It had a nice twist on the slasher genre and a likeable lead that carried the film well.  The sequel is sadly a bit of a downgrade in quality, since it’s sapped of the original’s fun tone in favor of a more convoluted and complicated story.  Christopher Landon switches up the first film’s trope by throwing in a sci-fi slant that could have led to some fun situations if they’d explored the concept a bit more than they do.  Jessica Rothe is still great in this entry, she’s such a fun actress who shows a healthy bit of range, more so than in the first film.  Sadly, her comedic talents aren’t used to their fullest extent here and it’s to the film’s detriment since it never as consistently fun as the previous film.  It’s a shame because you could see a healthy amount of possibilities in the concept and Rothe within this series.  Sadly, the sequel just ends up coming off as a pale imitation of the first film with far less pop and energy.   

C+

Cindy Prascik's Reviews of Cold Pursuit & The Lego Movie 2

Dearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas for Cold Pursuit and the Lego Movie 2.

Spoiler level here will be mild, nothing you wouldn't know from the trailers.

First up: Cold Pursuit. Liam Neeson gets revenge in the snow.

Action thrillers have become Liam Neeson's bread and butter. There's not much about Cold Pursuit that sets it apart from Taken or Run All Night or The Commuter, except it's quite funny, and I'm *almost* sure that's on purpose. Of course, in a film with this kind of body count, it's a grim humor, but...yeah, I'm reasonably certain it actually means to be funny. It's also super-cold, the kind of cold that makes you cold just looking at it, yet Liam Neeson is perpetually without his gloves. That was my big takeaway, so that probably tells you a good deal about the rest of it. Neeson is enjoyable but unremarkable in a role that, by now, he could play in his sleep. His supporting cast is as good as it needs to be, but a handful of Native American characters who turn up late and don't get enough screen time are the most interesting people in the movie. The action is solid and almost entirely unbelievable, and the picture is paced well enough that--despite playing out predictably--it's never slow or dull. If you aren't put off by literal mountains of snow, the scenery is a real feast for the eyes, too. Overall, if you can put aside the controversy currently surrounding its lead, Cold Pursuit is forgettable good fun.

Cold Pursuit clocks in at 118 minutes and is rated R for "strong violence, drug material, and some language including sexual references."

If you want to watch Liam Neeson kill something besides his career this weekend, Cold Pursuit is the film for you.

Of a possible nine Weasleys, Cold Pursuit gets six.

Fangirl points: Nathaniel Arcand! NexDearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas for Cold Pursuit and the Lego Movie 2. Spoiler level here will be mild, nothing you wouldn't know from the trailers. First up: Cold Pursuit. Liam Neeson gets revenge in the snow. Action thrillers have become Liam Neeson's bread and butter. There's not much about Cold Pursuit that sets it apart from Taken or Run All Night or The Commuter, except it's quite funny, and I'm *almost* sure that's on purpose. Of course, in a film with this kind of body count, it's a grim humor, but...yeah, I'm reasonably certain it actually means to be funny. It's also super-cold, the kind of cold that makes you cold just looking at it, yet Liam Neeson is perpetually without his gloves. That was my big takeaway, so that probably tells you a good deal about the rest of it. Neeson is enjoyable but unremarkable in a role that, by now, he could play in his sleep. His supporting cast is as good as it needs to be, but a handful of Native American characters who turn up late and don't get enough screen time are the most interesting people in the movie. The action is solid and almost entirely unbelievable, and the picture is paced well enough that--despite playing out predictably--it's never slow or dull. If you aren't put off by literal mountains of snow, the scenery is a real feast for the eyes, too. Overall, if you can put aside the controversy currently surrounding its lead, Cold Pursuit is forgettable good fun. Cold Pursuit clocks in at 118 minutes and is rated R for "strong violence, drug material, and some language including sexual references." If you want to watch Liam Neeson kill something besides his career this weekend, Cold Pursuit is the film for you. Of a possible nine Weasleys, Cold Pursuit gets six. Fangirl points: Nathaniel Arcand! Next on yesterday's docket was the Lego Movie 2: The Second Part. Everything is no longer awesome in Legoland. Like its predecessor, the Lego Movie 2 is a genuine delight. Top-notch voice work fronts an upbeat, colorful movie with a sweet message. The film’s terrific sense of humor will appeal as much to adults as to kids, and a cheerful score peppered with bouncy original songs is sure to engage the young’uns, and, as one song threatens, end up stuck in your head. As before, the best bits revolve around Batman (offered without bias!), but, truly, there is not a weak link here. The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part runs 106 minutes and is rated PG for "some rude humor." The Lego Movie 2 is another fun outing foe the entire family. Of a possible nine Weasleys, The Lego Movie 2 gets 8. Until next time... PS: Where's my Cats trailer? in Legoland. Like its predecessor, the Lego Movie 2 is a genuine delight. Top-notch voice work fronts an upbeat, colorful movie with a sweet message. The film’s terrific sense of humor will appeal as much to adults as to kids, and a cheerful score peppered with bouncy original songs is sure to engage the young’uns, and, as one song threatens, end up stuck in your head. As before, the best bits revolve around Batman (offered without bias!), but, truly, there is not a weak link here.

The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part runs 106 minutes and is rated PG for "some rude humor."

The Lego Movie 2 is another fun outing foe the entire family.

Of a possible nine Weasleys, The Lego Movie 2 gets 8.

Until next time... PS: Where's my Cats trailer?

MOVIE REVIEW: ALITA: BATTLE ANGEL

Set several centuries in the future, the abandoned Alita is found in the scrapyard of Iron City by Ido, a compassionate cyber-doctor who takes the unconscious cyborg Alita to his clinic. When Alita awakens, she has no memory of who she is, nor does she have any recognition of the world she finds herself in. As Alita learns to navigate her new life and the treacherous streets of Iron City, Ido tries to shield her from her mysterious past.

Director: Robert Rodriguez

Cast: Rosa Salazar, Christoph Waltz, Jennifer Connelly, Mahershala Ali, Ed Skrein, Jackie Earle Haley, Keean Johnson

Release Date: February 14, 2019

Genres: Fantasy/Science Fiction

Rating: PG-13 for sequences of sci-fi violence and action, and for some language

Runtime: 2h 22min

Review:

Alita: Battle Angel is a movie I've been hearing about for round about 20 years now, if that's not completely accurate it's pretty close.  James Cameron's passion project has been gestating in one shape or form for a long while.  Originally he'd intended to direct the script he'd co-written but he'd become engulfed in Avatar and its subsequent sequels.  He finally handed off the film to Robert Rodriguez to finally bring the whole thing to life.  So simply put, is it worth the wait?  I believe so and that's coming at this Manga adaptation completed unfamiliar with the source material, like say Ghost in The Shell.  

The film is a surprisingly cynical free, cyberpunk adventure that has a lot to offer.  First and foremost, the world building and CGI visuals are all top notch with only a few hiccups here and there.  Alita, herself, is a fully realized motion capture CGI creation, after getting used to her large Anime inspired eyes, that's a true testament to the technical prowess of the people behind the film.  Rose Salazar's motion capture performance is endearing as she plays a nice balance between naive and lethal.  The world feels lived in and diverse even if it doesn't feel as fresh as most post-apocalyptic cyber punk landscapes did back in the 90s.  Still, it's well done and populated with a large variety of different characters to keep things fresh and interesting.  

The story itself feels familiar, which is a common issue with Mangas from the 90's or even William Gibson novels, but there are enough disparate story threads to keep you engaged in what's going on.  There are issues that pop up throughout, mostly due the script which has its fair share of clunky dialogue.  There's also the massive misstep of casting top line actors like Christoph Waltz, Jennifer Connelly and Mahershala Ali to support Salazar and the story but never taking full advantage of their talents.  Instead the film opts to give Keean Johnson a spotlight even though he and Salazar don't share much chemistry.  Alita: Battle Angel's issues and how they affect your enjoyment of the film is totally dependent on whether you buy in early on.  The film throws a lot at you, everything from Motorball (a sort of Nascar meets cyborg roller derby), cyborg bounty hunters, cities in the sky and some sort of cataclysmic war that occurred 300 years before the start of film.  Does it resolve all plot points, not even close and a reveal at the end shows that Rodriguez and Cameron have more entries in mind, but I believe the film will either leave you wanting more or hating it with a passion.

B+

MOVIE REVIEW: MISS BALA

A young woman battles a ruthless drug cartel to save her kidnapped friend in Mexico.

Director: Catherine Hardwicke

Cast: Gina Rodriguez, Ismael Cruz Córdova, Anthony Mackie

Release Date: February 1, 2019

Genres: Action, Drama, Thriller

Rated PG-13 for sequences of gun violence, sexual and drug content, thematic material, and language

Runtime: 1h 44 min

Review:

Miss Bala is a ridiculous crime drama that’s watchable mainly because of Gina Rodriguez.  Catherine Hardwicke’s directs the film with a generic hand delivering very little in terms of visual style.  It has an inherit blandness that almost guarantees that’ll you’ll forget about the film as soon as it’s over.  The script is a jumbled mess that’s filled with so many plot holes that thinking about any portion of the story for too long would cause it to collapse instantly.  The film’s saving grace is Gina Rodriguez.  Rodriguez screen presence translates well on to the big screen.  She carries the film well and makes the entire thing so much more watchable than it deserves to be.  It’s a shame the film isn’t up to her talents but it does show that Rodriguez can carry a film ably.

C

MOVIE REVIEW: THE LEGO MOVIE 2: THE SECOND PART

The citizens of Bricksburg face a dangerous new threat when LEGO DUPLO invaders from outer space start to wreck everything in their path. The battle to defeat the enemy and restore harmony to the LEGO universe takes Emmet, Lucy, Batman and the rest of their friends to faraway, unexplored worlds that test their courage and creativity.

Director: Mike Mitchell

Cast: Chris Pratt, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett, Charlie Day, Alison Brie, Nick Offerman,Will Ferrell, Tiffany Haddish, Stephanie Beatriz Maya Rudolph

Release Date: February 8, 2019

Genres: Animation, Action, Adventure 

Rated PG for some rude humor

Runtime: 1h 46 min

Review:

The Lego Movie 2 The Second Part has a lot to live up to since the original was such a breath of fresh air.  The original film was a candy colored concoction that was enjoyable for children but was just as enjoyable for adults since it was an incredibly meta story that offered layers of depth.  Throw in the fact that we've had two other Lego related film's released with diminishing returns.  Thankful the sequel is just as enjoyable and thoughtful as the original even if it doesn't quiet reach the heights of the original.  The story is fun and thoughtful at the same time which speaks to the effort put into making this the best film possible.  The returning cast are all great, clearly more comfortable with their roles even if we do miss Liam Neeson's Bad Cop since there's not really a memorable villain.  The addition of Tiffany Haddish and Stephanie Beatriz help ease that loss with solid characters even if they're slightly underused.  The film does decide to embrace song and dance sequences which are mostly effective even if it take a moment to settle into them.  When it all said and done, the film's message is even more pointed and effective than the first film.

B+

Cindy Prascik's Review of The Kid Who Would Be King

Dearest Blog: Today it was off to Marquee Cinemas for the Kid Who Would Be King.Spoiler level here will be mild, nothing you wouldn't know from the trailers or--you know--one of the most-told stories of all time.

A young boy on the run from school bullies unearths a medieval sword and discovers there are bigger problems.Dear reader(s), if my first official movie of 2019 is any indication, it's going to be a great year!The Kid Who Would Be King is utterly charming.

Kicking off with a gorgeous animated sequence, the movie is beautifully filmed throughout and features lovely scenery and solid effects. The cast of kid actors is terrific, with Louis Ashbourne Serkis (yes, he's Andy's son) carrying the picture like an old pro. For what little screen time they have, the grownups are pretty great too.

Action sequences are spelled by quieter moments for near-perfect pacing, and the film has a fantastic, thoroughly English, sense of humor. The final battle does drag on a bit, leaving the picture perhaps a little long (and a little dark) for younger kids, but it's a small quibble with what is otherwise a very, very good movie. Oh...and I think the mighty Led Zeppelin would be proud to have their concert tees turn up in this film!

The Kid Who Would Be King runs 120 minutes and is rated PG for "fantasy action violence, scary images, thematic elements including some bullying, and language."The Kid Who Would Be King is a genial, totally engaging movie with a powerful and important message for young people.

Of a possible nine Weasleys, the Kid Who Would Be King gets eight.

Fangirl points: Erm...I think I may have squealed out loud when Mark Bonnar turned up...Until next time...

Cindy Prascik's Retro-Review: Flashback Cinema Presents Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

Dearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas for Flashback Cinema's presentation of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.

As this third installment in the Harry Potter franchise turns 15 years old this summer, I daresay no one is reading this who hasn't formed an opinion by now, so we'll call this a discussion rather than a proper review. In other words: Here be spoilers. Please chime in with your thoughts in the comments!
A dangerous felon escapes from the Wizarding World's most terrifying prison in search of the Boy Who Lived.

The Harry Potter books and movies, to me, seem much like Beatles records: The early ones are very sweet and innocent, and the later ones sometimes almost impossibly heavy; it's those middle ones that find that perfect tonal balance. Prisoner of Azkaban is my favorite HP book and movie, and not just because it introduced my beloved Mr. Oldman to this magical universe. (Shut up, I know you were thinking it!)

Prisoner of Azkaban features major transitions in the Potter universe. As mentioned, the tone begins to turn darker. "Darker" is relative in a story that begins with a baby orphaned in an attempt on his own life, but here the threat seems more constant and fully permeating. Even fun moments are tinged with a hint of worry, like Dementors hovering just outside the Hogwarts grounds.

Following Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets, Christopher Columbus ceded the director's chair to Alfonso Cuaron. While I think every director did a fine job with his bit of the Potter world, I have long contended that none of the others *truly* understood magic the way Cuaron did. At times I think it meant more butting heads with author J.K. Rowling, who retained a great deal of creative control over the films (I seem to recall a story about her vetoing his wish to have little people dancing on pianos?), but ultimately it resulted in the most magical feel of any of the movies. Despite releasing in the summer, Azkaban's production design boasts a very Halloween-ish atmosphere that fully expresses Cuaron's vision, with especially brilliant use of the Whomping Willow to indicate the change of seasons. Maestro John Williams' final Harry Potter score also reflects the picture's creepier tone. While my favorite piece for any of the Potter movies comes from the previous film (Fawkes the Phoenix), overall I find Azkaban's score to be the most immersive of the franchise, and the best reflection of its film.

In Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban we see Michael Gambon's first turn as Albus Dumbledore, following the sad loss of Richard Harris. (RIP.) While many prefer Harris' kind-hearted Headmaster, I feel Gambon better captures Dumbledore's kookiness, and the hardness that allowed him to ask the same great sacrifices of others--including children--that he expected of himself. There's a brand new look for Professor Flitwick this outing, and several notable cast additions, including my Gary as the titular jailbird, David Thewlis as Lupin, the new Dark Arts professor, Emma Thompson as flighty Divination professor Trelawney, Timothy Spall as the Potters' childhood friend Peter Pettigrew, and the brilliant Dawn French in an all-too-quick appearance as the Fat Lady.

In POA, Daniel Radcliffe turns in a a more mature performance that really begins to reflect how seriously he takes his craft. Watching him grow up as a fine actor and even finer young man has been such a joy! Rupert Grint and Tom Felton cement their places as the strongest of the young performers, and Emma Watson gets to add a few more layers to her Hermione. The Weasley twins, my favorite characters in the Potter universe, turn up only briefly, but enjoy one of their more defining moments in this installment as well.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban clocks in at 142 minutes and is rated PG for "frightening moments, creature violence, and mild language."

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban marks the finest moment in one of the world's best and most beloved movie franchises. Of a possible nine Weasleys--and being the only film that actually features all nine Weasleys (photo evidence below!)--Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban of course gets nine.

N.B.: My everlasting regrets regarding the Potter franchise are that I never got to see Rik Mayall as Peeves, nor hear Uncle Vernon utter the words, "Dementy-Whatsits."

Fangirl points: You. Guys. I forgot how hard I ship Sirius/Remus. I will go down with that ship!
Until next time...

Cindy Prascik's Review of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

Dearest Blog: After rather a long hiatus, yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas for Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.

Spoiler level here will be...uh...you know what, we're five weeks in and I never did see a trailer for this, so let's just say read on and take your chances.

Many Spideys from many dimensions join forces to fight a common threat.

Dear reader(s), the week Spider-Verse was released, we had five new movies opening locally. As the busy holiday season left me time for only two and I am prone to poor life choices, I opted for The Mule and Mortal Engines. Yesterday was my first opportunity to catch up with Spider-Verse, and, while I normally wouldn't bother reviewing a movie this late in its run*, Spider-Verse is so extraordinary that if I can convince even one person to get out and see it while it's still on the big screen, it's my civic duty to do that.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a terrific film, sans genre qualifier. The story is clever and layered without being muddled, and it explains itself well enough that even those not well-versed  in the multi-verse should have no trouble keeping up. Glorious visuals could pass for pages pulled directly from a comic; in fact, there's more than one panel I'm pretty sure *was* pulled directly from a comic. Your enjoyment may ebb and flow depending on the amount of time "your" Spidey spends on screen (I'm a Peter Parker girl myself), but the movie is at its best when all the Spideys share scenes together. A familiar stable of villains lends a comfortable feel to the proceedings, but a great sense of humor and multiple focal points keep the picture moving at pretty frantic pace. Daniel Pemberton's fantastic score and a positive, empowering message wrap up the heroic proceedings with a neat little bow.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse clocks in at 117 minutes and is rated PG for "frenetic scenes of animated action violence, thematic elements, and mild language."

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is an exceptional movie that stands out among a glut of super-hero movies and sets a new standard for animation.

Of a possible nine Weasleys, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse gets nine.

Until next time...

*Feel free to laugh at this remark when my next review is of a movie that turns 15 years old this summer.

MOVIE REVIEW: ESCAPE ROOM

Six adventurous strangers travel to a mysterious building to experience the escape room -- a game where players compete to solve a series of puzzles to win $10,000. What starts out as seemingly innocent fun soon turns into a living nightmare as the four men and two women discover each room is an elaborate trap that's part of a sadistic game of life or death.

Director: Adam Robitel

Cast: Logan Miller, Deborah Ann Woll, Taylor Russell, Tyler Labine, Jay Ellis, Nik Dodani

Release Date: January 4, 2019

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi

Rated PG-13 for terror/perilous action, violence, some suggestive material and language

Runtime: 1h 39 min

Review:

Escape Room is one of those January horror releases that pop up every year.  For all intents and purposes, it should be terrible and forgettable.  Escape Room is surprising in that it’s actually an entertainingly brisk sci-fi horror film.  The film itself plays out like a blood and gore less version of Saw, at least on the surface.  As the film goes on, you’d be hard pressed to ignore a more than passing similarities to the 1997 sci-fi gem Cube.  Nobody would ever accuse this film of being as intelligently written as Cube but it works more often than it doesn’t.  That’s because the film cast is surprisingly likeable even though their characters are written with only the most basic levels of layering.  Recognizable faces such as Deborah Ann Woll, Tyler Labine and Jay Ellis give the film a bit more clout than you’d usually expect from films of this ilk.  Sadly, the film does lose a bit of steam in its final act where it seems to rush through the conclusion only to set up a possible sequel, never allowing this original entry’s plot to settle.  Ultimately, Escape Room is one of those fast food style films where you’re liable to forget about it shortly after you leave the theater but then have a sequel pop up a year later.

C+

MOVIE REVIEW: ON THE BASIS OF SEX

Ruth Bader Ginsburg is a struggling attorney and new mother who faces adversity and numerous obstacles in her fight for equal rights. When Ruth takes on a groundbreaking tax case with her husband, attorney Martin Ginsburg, she knows it could change the direction of her career and the way the courts view gender discrimination.

Director: Mimi Leder

Cast: Felicity Jones, Armie Hammer, Justin Theroux, Jack Reynor, Cailee Spaeny, Sam Waterston, and Kathy Bates

Release Date: December 25, 2018

Genres: Biography, Drama 

Rated PG-13 for some language and suggestive content

Runtime: 2h 0min

Review:

On The Basis of Sex is an engaging if cliched bio pic that is elevated by it's direction and performances. Mimi Leder directs the film with a steady caring hand that treats it's characters with a gentle hand.  Leder moves the film at a steady pace but the film would have been better served focusing on a tighter timeline since it covers a fairly large portion of Ginsburg's life.  At the film's center is Felicity Jones who provides the story it's heart.  Jones turn as Ginsburg captures that intensity and drive that propelled her throughout her early years.  Sure her Brooklyn accent comes and in and out through the film but she does a fine job of carrying the film.  A swoon worthy Armie Hammer is excellent as Ginsburg's loving and ever supportive husband.  The supporting cast is made up of familiar faces along with a rare evil turn from Sam Waterston. There are a few missteps mostly due to the script which over does the schmaltz factor that makes certain sequences feel a bit too "Hollywood" which robs moments of authenticity.  Still it's a solid film enough biopic of an amazing woman who deserves this type of recognition.

B+

MOVIE REVIEW: IF BEALE STREET COULD TALK

In early 1970s Harlem, daughter and wife-to-be Tish vividly recalls the passion, respect and trust that have connected her and her artist fiancé Alonzo Hunt, who goes by the nickname Fonny. Friends since childhood, the devoted couple dream of a future together, but their plans are derailed when Fonny is arrested for a crime he did not commit.

Director: Barry Jenkins

Cast: KiKi Layne, Stephan James, Colman Domingo, Teyonah Parris, Michael Beach, Dave Franco, Diego Luna, Pedro Pascal, Ed Skrein, Brian Tyree Henry, Regina King

Release Date: December 25, 2018

Genres: Crime, Drama, Romance

Rated R for language and some sexual content 

Runtime: 1h 59 min

Review:

If Beale Street Could Talk is a fascinatingly dense film that tackles a bevy of themes while maintaining an incredible style and intimacy.  Barry Jenkins, adapting the book of the same name, delivers a ponderous film that asks for the audience’s patience while the cast unfurls the story.  KiKi Layne leads the film with an impressive performance that starts off full of innocence but slowly transforms over the course of the film.  She’s a capable and likeable lead, her and Stephen James shares believable chemistry together as the lovers whose story is beautifully tragic and real.  Its cinematography creates a sort of cinematic poetry that’s feels authentic even when it’s stylized.  Some might take issue with its methodical pace but ultimately it adds so much to the overall experience and it’s ruminations on race, love, gender politics and a handful of other topics.  

A-

MOVIE REVIEW: THE FAVOURITE

In the early 18th century, England is at war with the French. Nevertheless, duck racing and pineapple eating are thriving. A frail Queen Anne occupies the throne, and her close friend Lady Sarah governs the country in her stead while tending to Anne's ill health and mercurial temper. When a new servant, Abigail, arrives, her charm endears her to Sarah. Sarah takes Abigail under her wing, and Abigail sees a chance to return to her aristocratic roots.

Director: Yorgos Lanthimos

Cast: Olivia Colman, Emma Stone, Rachel Weisz, Nicholas Hoult, Joe Alwyn, James Smith, Mark Gatiss

Release Date: November 23, 2018

Genres: Biography, Comedy, Drama

Rated R for strong sexual content, nudity and language.

Runtime: 1h 59 min

Review:

At some point during Yorgos Lanthimos cynically funny film, you might get the sensation that you are watching a mash up of Stanley Kubrick’s Barry Lyndon and Milo Foreman’s Amadeus.  That’s hardly a bad thing but as the film moves on its genuinely funny script and biting wit take hold, carried ably by the top notch cast.  The three leads share the sort of chemistry that’s rare to find.  It’s instantly recognizable and they make you care about these fairly terrible human beings.  Olivia Colman, Emma Stone and Rachel Weisz are all in top form with each being given multiple moments to shine.  It’d be criminal not to mention Nicholas Hoult who finds a way to standout in supporting role.  The Favourite is truly a fun ride through and through filled with top notch performance and stellar camera work that’s sure to be iconic as the film ages. 

A