MOVIE REVIEW: KING ARTHUR: LEGEND OF THE SWORD

Robbed of his birthright, Arthur comes up the hard way in the back alleys of the city. But once he pulls the sword from the stone, he is forced to acknowledge his true legacy - whether he likes it or not. 

Director: Guy Ritchie

Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Jude Law, Astrid Bergès-Frisbey, Djimon Hounsou, Eric Bana        

Release Date: May 12, 2017

Rated PG-13 for sequences of violence and action, some suggestive content and brief strong language

Runtime: 2 hr. 6 min.

Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama

Review:

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword isn’t a terrible movie by any stretch of the imagination.  That’s not to say there aren’t plenty of missteps made throughout.  It’ll take you a few minutes to figure out that Guy Ritchie isn’t out to replicate John Boorman’s classic Excalibur.  Ritchie delivers a fantasy movie that’s lifted some of the names from the Arthurian legends and uses them solely for name recognition.  They’re very little that feels familiar to anyone who has more than a passing knowledge of the story.  Thankfully there are inspired moments to be had throughout even if they are never consistent enough to make for a strong film.  Ritchie can’t seem to decide if he wants to make a full on fantasy film or a more gritty on the ground take.  It makes for a jarring viewing experience since some of the great moments from the cast are immediately followed by some frantic overly CGI’ed action sequences.  These sequences detract from the overall enjoyment because the film doesn’t let its strong cast shine.  As such, most of the actors are lost in the overall scheme of things creating a film that feels long and rushed at the same time.  It’s a real shame Guy Ritchie couldn’t choose a lane because there’s bit and pieces in the film that shine and could have made up a better film.

C

Cindy Prascik's Review of King Arthur: Legend of the Sword

Dearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas for the latest proof that Hollywood is out of new ideas: King Arthur: Legend of the Sword.

 

Spoiler level here will be mild, nothing you haven't seen in the trailers.

 

A young King Arthur is forced to reclaim his birthright from his traitorous uncle.

 

As I'm sure you've heard (and heard and heard), King Arthur: Legend of the Sword has many problems. In the interest of finishing strong, we'll get those out of the way first. The movie's biggest issue is that it isn't comfortable in its own skin. It desperately wants you to take it seriously, but offers you no real reason to do so. Modern language, clothing, and haircuts constantly belie its medieval setting...never mind some astonishingly white teeth! Charlie Hunnam--bless his beautiful, beautiful self--is just not that great a dramatic actor. Don't misunderstand me, dear reader(s), I love this guy and have seen and will continue to see everything he does, but he'd be better served by taking more interesting roles in smaller movies than by attempting to carry huge expectations on his strong, broad shoulders. Wait...what? Sorry, I was distracted by the thought of Charlie's shoulders. The supporting cast is reasonably solid, but only Jude Law seems to grasp the silliness of this retelling of the classic tale, delivering a baddie who's a mere moustache-twirl shy of cartoonish. That's the bad news, and I'm surprised and delighted to report none of it is fatal.

 

On the plus side, Legend of the Sword features some pretty nice creature and battle effects. A couple quick-cut narrative bits are hilarious--the movie's best parts, really--though they seem out of place with the intended tone. The film runs a hair long for what it is, but it never seems too long...which regular readers will know is quite a compliment coming from me! Daniel Pemberton's score is utterly magical. Do get out and buy or download or stream it or whatever you kids do with your music these days. Finally, SPOILER ALERT: Charlie Hunnam is shirtless. More than once. Feel like that's worth the price of admission any ol' day.

 

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword clocks in at 126 minutes and is rated PG13 for "sequences of violence and action, some suggestive content, and brief strong language." King Arthur: Legend of the Sword is less authentic legend than it is garden-variety action fantasy, but it's a surprisingly good time with some lovely eye candy. Of a possible nine Weasleys, King Arthur: Legend of the Sword gets six.

 

Fangirl points: Aidan Gillen (*swoon*)! Freddie Fox! Annabelle Wallis! 

 

Until next time...

MOVIE REVIEW: GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2

While on the run following a botched heist, the Guardians of the Galaxy encounter a mysterious being known as Ego (Kurt Russell), who claims to be the long-lost father of team leader Peter Quill (Chris Pratt). As Quill learns more about his past, the Guardians battle foes old and new. James Gunn returns to write and direct this installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which also stars Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, and Karen Gillan, and features the voices of Bradley Cooper and Vin Diesel. ~ Jack Rodgers, Rovi

Director: James Gunn

Cast: Chris Pratt, Bradley Cooper, Vin Diesel, Zoe Saldana, David Bautista

Release Date: May 05, 2017

Rated PG-13 for language, Brief Suggestive Content, Sequences of Sci-Fi Action and Violence

Runtime: 2 hr. 15 min.

Genres: Action/Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Review:

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 was always going to be a tough task since the first film was so unexpected and incredibly fun.  The sequel faces a Herculean task of expanding and continuing everything that worked in the original.  James Gunn’s follow up is a fun if overly bloated and scattered film.  The film’s plot, which has all the subtly of a sledgehammer, is an overly serious rumination on fatherhood, alienation and family drama.  As a result, some of the pop and chemistry of the original is missing.  There is still plenty to enjoy like the expanded roles for Michael Rooker’s Youdu and Karen Gilligan’s Nebula but its decision to split up the core cast zaps the film of the first film’s fantastic chemistry.  Kurt Russell’s casting seems like a perfect match but the character is strangely undercooked.  Using a living plant as the primary villain means that Russell is left on the sidelines for the better part of the final act which is to the film’s detriment, Elizabeth Debicki golden skinned Ayesha might have made a better villain.  Thankfully the emotional storyline pays off through an unexpected source which works well because it feels organic and earned.  It’s a shame everything doesn‘t feel as fluid and organic.  The sequel could of used some trimming which would have made the clunkiness less noticeable and the film more enjoyable overall. 

B-

Cindy Prascik's Review of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

Dearest Blog: Today it was off to Marquee Cinemas for Guardians of the Galaxy 2.

 

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

 

Star Lord and company are back for more intergalactic action.

 

Dear reader(s), there's not much bad news about GOTG2, so we'll get what little there is out of the way first, beginning with the obvious: At the first film's release, GOTG was a mostly-unknown quantity that became a very pleasant surprise for genre and non-genre fans alike. Many hundreds of millions of dollars later, that missing element of surprise is bound to make the sequel feel less special than its predecessor; somehow "everything you expect" becomes both a blessing and a curse. Also, echoing a familiar complaint, the movie is too long for what it is. Not the popular opinion, but Marvel to me are the Masters of Bloat, and a 20-minute trim would have done GOTG2 a big favor. That out of the way, there's a lot to love here.

 

GOTG2 retains the humor of the original, though it's less consistently sharp. You won't laugh any less on the first go-round, but it's not going to hold up as well over time. The likable cast is expectedly reliable with the action and comedy bits, and, as with the first GOTG, Bradley Cooper's voice work on Rocket is really something special. It's important not to miss that amidst all the choreographed chaos and huge effects, which are end-to-end and admittedly stunning. Awesome Mix Vol. 2 is just as great as Awesome Mix Vol. 1; you'll be downloading it before you're even in the car. Finally, though Baby Groot is the film's highlight, much like the Minions before him, a more judicious use of his cuteness wouldn't be a bad idea. Definitely preferable to leave people wanting more, rather than risking "cute" becoming "annoying."

 

Guardians of the Galaxy 2 runs 136 minutes and is rated PG13 for "sequences of sci-fi action and violence, language, and brief suggestive content."

 

While some of the shine may have worn off Guardians of the Galaxy, you'd still be hard pressed to find more fun at the movies. Of a possible nine Weasleys, Guardians of the Galaxy 2 gets seven and a half.

 

Fangirl points: Tommy Freaking Flanagan! George Harrison is on Awesome Mix Vol. II!!

 

Until next time...

Cindy Prascik's Review of The Circle

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas to join The Circle.

 

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

 

A young woman takes a position with a tech juggernaut that appears to be a dream employer...but all is not as it seems at The Circle.

 

It was always fair to assume The Circle wouldn't be as smart as it thinks it is, but, from the trailers, it appeared it'd at least be a solid way to pass a couple hours. Sadly, appearances can be deceiving.

 

The Circle is a criminal waste of a really good cast, and it's important to note that the movie's failings are not on the actors. Tom Hanks and John Boyega are sadly underused, but Emma Watson does as well as can be expected carrying such sub-par material. Karen Gillan is also quite good, and, with limited screen time in what appears to be his final big-screen appearance, Bill Paxton turns in a nice performance. The Circle poses timely questions: How connected is too connected? How open is too open? In better hands, the movie might have been a chilling cautionary tale or an interesting take on personal freedom/privacy vs. the greater good. Instead, it's a plodding affair burdened with paper-doll characters, excruciating dialogue, and a "reveal" that's so ambiguous as to be pointless...a painful experience from start to finish.

 

The Circle clocks in at an interminable 110 minutes and is rated PG13 for "a sexual situation, brief strong language, and some thematic elements including drug use."

 

The Circle is a fitting closer for an underwhelming month at the movies, but, hey, at least we've got Guardians of the Galaxy next week! Of a possible nine Weasleys, The Circle gets two.

 

This blog is dedicated to my friend and fellow movie buff Melissa Bradley, who today lost a long and hard-fought battle with cancer. Rest well, Melissa.

 

Until next time...

Cindy Prascik's Review of The Fate of the Furious

Dearest Blog: After a two-week hiatus, yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas to watch some of my favorite folks drive fast cars, shoot big guns, and blow stuff up in the Fate of the Furious.

 

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

 

This being the eighth installment in the Fast and Furious franchise, one has to ask: Did they miss an opportunity in not writing it "The F8 of the Furious?" Because I don't see it like that on any of the marketing (despite the official hashtag being #F8) and it's bummin' me out. Secondly: Is the series running out of gas? (Har. Har. Har.) I mean, literally, I think you HAVE to ask that, because every single headline I've seen so far has done so. But I digress...

 

The Fast and Furious franchise has buttered its bread by making each installment bigger and crazier, and this most recent outing is no exception. I didn't feel there was any one huge showpiece (like dropping the cars from an airplane last time), but the whole had higher stakes, better surprises, and more sustained lunacy. Vin Diesel is again front and center, as F8 sees Dominic Toretto turning on his team to work with an evil madwoman, portrayed with gleeful relish by the brilliant Charlize Theron. I was very pleasantly surprised by a couple much-loved faces turning up in the supporting cast, though I'd fervently hoped for one and the Internet tells me I should have known about the other. (Not spoiling here in case anyone else wishes to remain in the dark.) Dwayne Johnson is his usual charming self, and I say with only the tiniest bit of bias that the movie is a good deal better when Jason Statham is onscreen than when he isn't. Despite the world's fate hanging in the balance, F8 has plenty of lighter moments, and the humor, though juvenile and predictable, usually hits the mark. The film throws down massive stunts, explosive action, and, of course, some pretty sweet rides. Negatives are relatively few, but, as usual, the ending comes with extra cheese. Michelle Rodriguez is bad enough that I wondered how I ever thought she wasn't, and the movie could have used at least a 30-minute trim.

 

The Fate of the Furious runs 136 minutes and is rated PG13 for "prolonged sequences of violence and destruction, suggestive content, and language."

 

The Fast and Furious franchise gets full marks for giving its audience exactly what it wants, without ever taking that audience for granted. Of a possible nine Weasleys, the Fate of the Furious gets seven.

 

Until next time...

MOVIE REVIEW: GHOST IN THE SHELL

In a future in which humanity and technology have begun to merge, a cybernetically enhanced policewoman (Scarlett Johansson) hunts a mysterious terrorist who can hack into his victims' minds and control their thoughts and memories. Her pursuit eventually leads her to discover the full truth about her traumatic past. Pilou Asbaek, Takeshi Kitano, Juliette Binoche, and Michael Pitt co-star. Directed by Rupert Sanders (Rupert Sanders), Ghost in the Shell is based on a popular Japanese manga series, which was already adapted into an iconic anime film of the same name. ~ Jack Rodgers, Rovi

Director: Rupert Sanders

Cast: Scarlett Johansson, Pilou Asbæk, Takeshi Kitano, Juliette Binoche, Michael Pitt

Release Date: Mar 31, 2017

Rated PG-13 for some Disturbing Images, Intense Sci-Fi Violence and Suggestive Content

Runtime: 1 hr. 42 min.

Genres: Action/Adventure, Drama, Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Review:

The 1995 Ghost in the Shell anime is a personal favorite of mine so the live action iteration had a lot to live up to.  Rupert Sanders nails the aesthetic, borrowing elements from Blade Runner and A.I., throughout.  Sanders seems most comfortable replicating iconic sequences from the classic anime and he does it well.  The action set pieces are impressive throughout.  It’s hard not to be impressed by some of the shots but it’s a shame that the story was neutered.  Ghost in the Shell was always a heady meditation on souls, “ghost”, and technology so it’s not unexpected that live action story would be made a bit more palpable.  Unfortunately, it’s stripped down to a Jason Borne meets Robocop plot.  Thankfully, Scarlett Johansson is excellent as the Major even if she’s not given much narrative meat to chew on.  Still, she is always the most interesting thing on screen.  That being said decidedly multicultural supporting cast is a spot on.  Pilou Asbæk is a solid Batou even if his voice leans closer to Sin City’s Marv than it should.  Sadly, Michael Pitt isn’t given much to do as the primary antagonist since he’s just there to move the plot along more than anything else.  The live action Ghost in the Shell is an origin story, so fans should hope that future installments have a bit more meat behind the glossy shell.

B-

MOVIE REVIEW: LIFE

This science fiction saga tells the story of astronauts on the International Space Station who retrieve a sample from Mars and discover it contains evidence of intelligent life. The crew is thrust into danger when the specimen shows signs of aggression, threatening the entire mission. Jake Gyllenhaal stars alongside Ryan Reynolds and Rebecca Ferguson. Daniel Espinosa directed a script written by Deadpool scribes Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese. ~ Daniel Gelb, Rovi

Director: Daniel Espinosa 

Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Ryan Reynolds, Rebecca Ferguson, Hiroyuki Sanada, Ariyon Bakare

Release Date: Mar 24, 2017

Rated R for language throughout, some sci-fi violence and terror

Runtime: 1 hr. 43 min.

Genres: Horror, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Suspense/Thriller

Life is a surprisingly bland rethread of Alien.  Daniel Espinosa does a serviceable job of directed an impressive collections of actors.  It has the hallmarks of decent filmmaking but even with the actor’s best efforts it’s never terribly interesting. The story plays out exactly the way you expect it to go and there’s little effort to bring something new to the story.  The biggest mystery during the entire thing is the order of the characters exit.  Even the finale, which the film seems to think is mind blowing, is incredibly predictable.  You have to wonder if there is a better film in there somewhere.  That’s the only thing that could explain what could have drawn so many talented actors to such a bland and forgettable exercise.     

C-

Cindy Prascik's Reviews of Life & Power Rangers

Dearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas with the throngs who apparently haven't left their homes since Christmas. Ahhhh...springtime. On the docket: Life and Power Rangers.

 

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

 

First up: sci-fi thriller Life.

Deadpool, Donnie Darko, and the chick from the last Mission Impossible discover an alien life form. 

 

Humanity weeps.

 

As I was suffering through Life, I was prepared to declare it the worst thing I've ever seen. In hindsight, there's no way it's that (screams Ghost Ship from my DVD collection), but it IS a gruesome, derivative waste of a pretty solid cast. The dialogue ranges from trite to cringe-worthy, and the tired old story drags on like a drum solo at an 80s arena-rock show, cut-rate sci-fi that occasionally knocks you over the head with clumsy attempts at poignancy. Sadly, even the creature effects are lame. Then, after two hours of taking itself way too seriously, the end credits kick off with a perky rendition of Spirit in the Sky. Whatever the filmmakers thought they were doing with that, it was a less-fitting finish than La La Land (which is saying something). The one thing Life has going for it is a terrific score by Jon Ekstrand, but, even in tandem with my best boyfriend Jake Gyllenhaal, it can't save the day.

 

Life clocks in at an interminable 103 minutes and is rated R for "language throughout, some sci-fi violence and terror."

 

Life is dead on arrival. Of a possible nine Weasleys, Life gets one.

 

Next up, the most recent take on Saban's Power Rangers.

 

Five ordinary high-schoolers are chosen to be the next Power Rangers, and are tasked with saving the world from the evil Rita Repulsa.

 

Well, dear reader(s), in the interest of full and fair disclosure, I'll admit that Power Rangers would have had to work very hard to earn a thumbs-down from this blog, but I'm pleased to report it's even better than I'd hoped. This new crew of Rangers is a diverse, likable, good-looking bunch that seems a solid fit, both as a group and individually. Special shoutout (with just a wee bit of personal bias) to Ludi Lin, who does a great job as Zack, the Black Ranger. RJ Cyler is also terrific, portraying Billy, the Blue Ranger, as a young man on the autism spectrum. There's plenty of well-paced action, but it doesn't drag on or overwhelm the whole. Effects are just as huge as you'd expect. Suits and Zords have been updated for a new age, looking slick and impressive. The film's humor is hardly cutting edge, but the movie's funny when it means to be, and the dialogue among the kids feels natural and not over-scripted. Elizabeth Banks gleefully chews the scenery as Rita Replusa, not my favorite take on the character, but definitely entertaining. Power Rangers have always been corny, and this outing is no exception. The movie runs a little long, and Bill Hader is supremely annoying as the voice of Alpha 5, but, overall, Power Rangers is good fun, and my theater gave it the loudest, longest ovation I've ever experienced at the movies. Stick around for a mid-credits scene. It's no great revelation, but it'll still be welcome "news" for most fans.

 

Power Rangers runs 124 minutes and is rated PG13 for "sequences of sci-fi action, violence, and destruction, language, and for some crude humor."

 

2017's Power Rangers pointedly takes aim at a new generation, but still manages to indulge old fans' nostalgia. Of a possible nine Weasleys, Power Rangers gets seven and a half.

 

Fangirl points: There is a Social Distortion song in this movie. I repeat: There is a Social Distortion song in this movie. This is not a drill.

 

Until next time... 

 

MOVIE REVIEW: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Bill Condon (Dreamgirls) directed this live-action retelling of the Disney animated classic from 1991. As before, this fairy tale centers on a young woman named Belle (Emma Watson), who is forced to live in an enchanted castle with a prince who is cursed to look like a hideous Beast (Dan Stevens). In time, the pair fall in love as Belle learns to see the good man hiding behind the Beast's monstrous exterior. The film co-stars Luke Evans as Gaston, Ewan McGregor as Lumière, Emma Thompson as Mrs. Potts, Ian McKellen as Cosgworth, Kevin Kline as Belle's father, and Josh Gad as Gaston's sidekick LeFou. ~ Jack Rodgers, Rovi

Director: Bill Condon

Cast: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans, Josh Gad, Ewan McGregor

Release Date: Mar 17, 2017

Rated PG for Peril, Frightening Images and Some Action Violence

Runtime: 2 hr. 9 min.

Genres: Family, Music/Performing Arts, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Review:

The live action Beauty and The Beast hits all the right notes both figuratively and literally but it still feels like it’s missing something.  Bill Condon does a fine job of directing the film delivering lavish musical numbers and a cornucopia of visual treats.  His cast is excellent with Emma Watson sliding into the Belle role with great easy.  Her voice isn’t quiet as strong as the role needs it to be but she’s still a great choice for the role.  Dan Stevens is solid if uninspired as the Beast which is a shame considering he’s a strong actor.  It doesn’t help that the CGI on the Beast is thoroughly unconvincing.  The rest of the CGI characters are well done which makes the misstep on one of the main characters all the more puzzling.  Ewan McGregor stands our as Lumière as does Emma Thompson.  As for the rest of the live action cast, Luke Evans and Josh Gad make for a great duo which is helped by the fact that they are clearly have a great time.  All in all, the live action version of the film is strong across the board even though it could have used a bit of a trim here there.  Unfortunately, it never really finds itself and it really makes you want to revisit the original animated film.

B-

Cindy Prascik's Review of Beauty and the Beast

Dearest Blog: Today it was off to Marquee Cinemas for the live-action remake of Disney's classic, Beauty and the Beast.

 

Spoiler level here will be...oh, who am I kidding? Everybody knows how this turns out.

 

A selfish prince is turned into a hideous beast by a curse that can only be lifted by his learning to love and be loved.

 

Dear Reader(s), other than Pirates of the Caribbean and that awesome old Robin Hood cartoon, I'm not really a Disney super-fan. If you want to know how the current imagining of Beauty and the Beast stacks up against the much-loved animated version (which I failed to revisit, despite my best intentions), you're going to have to look elsewhere. That out of the way...

 

The new Beauty and the Beast gets just about everything right. Emma Watson is a delight in the lead. She hasn't got the strongest singing voice, but she's gifted with numbers that aren't much beyond your average shower performer, getting by on her natural charm, beauty, and ever-growing acting chops. As for the Beast, well, casting a handsome devil like Dan Stevens in a role where you hardly see his face has to be a black mark on a film's permanent record, but Stevens' charisma is never hidden by his beastly facade. The cast's true gems are in its supporting players. Luke Evans, Josh Gad, and the divine Audra McDonald use their musical theater cred to steal the show, and the number "Gaston" (featuring Evans and Gad) is easily the highlight of the picture. Some interior scenes are a bit too dark (a by-product of seeing a 3D product in 2D), but the movie's glorious sets are otherwise on full, stunning display. Costumes are also top notch. Seeing Emma in that iconic yellow dress tugged at even my Grinch-sized heart. For my money, the movie's only serious flaws are bland tunes (I daresay most don't share that opinion) and the fact it could use about a 20-minute trim, but a good--if predictable--story, fun action, and solid humor more than compensate for these minor quibbles.

 

Disney's Beauty and the Beast runs 129 minutes and is rated PG for "some action violence, peril, and frightening images."

 

The live-action remake of Beauty and the Beast is magic for old and new fans alike. 

 

Of a possible nine Weasleys, Beauty and the Beast gets seven and a half.

 

Fangirl points: The Goddess Audra! My beloved Luke Evans!

 

Until next time... 

 

MOVIE REVIEW: KONG: SKULL ISLAND

A secret government organization mounts an expedition to Skull Island, an uncharted territory in the Pacific. Led by an explorer (John Goodman) and a lieutenant colonel (Samuel L. Jackson), the group recruit a disillusioned soldier (Tom Hiddleston) and a photojournalist (Brie Larson) to investigate the island's peculiar seismic activity. But once there, they discover that Skull Island is home to a gigantic ape called King Kong, and find themselves caught up in an ongoing war between the beast and the area's indigenous predators. Jordan Vogt-Roberts directed this reboot of the classic monster franchise. ~ Daniel Gelb, Rovi

Director: Jordan Vogt-Roberts

Cast: Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, John Goodman, Brie Larson, John Ortiz.

Release Date: Mar 10, 2017    

Rated PG-13 for Intense Sci-Fi Violence/Action and Brief Strong Language    

Runtime: 1 hr. 58 min.    

Genres: Action/Adventure, Sci-Fi/Fantasy    

Review:

Kong: Skull Island is a bit of a throwback in multiple ways.  Bringing back the cinematic beast with a 90’s style blockbuster bombast provides some good fun even if the film’s human characters suffer.  Kong and his fellow island beast all look great and are appropriately menacing during the huge set pieces that make up the better part of the film.  The action itself is well directed and fun with the helicopter sequence being the biggest standout.  There are a few drawbacks that keep the film from being great.  First off, there are way too many characters in the film with none of them really getting any sort of depth.  There’s a bevy recognizable faces on display but the director Jordan Vogt-Roberts doesn’t seem all that interested in using them for anything other than eye candy.  As a result, strong actors like Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, John Goodman and Sam Jackson (channeling Ahab vs. Kong via Apocalypse Now) are short changed by the script which leaves them spinning their wheels.  John C. Reilly is fairly great as the downed WW2 pilot.  He brings a ton of energy and fun to the film as soon as he hits the screen in the third act helping keep the momentum going for the finale.  Kong: Skull Island implies a much larger monsterverse at play, which cough cough includes Godzilla, so future entries can improve on some of the faults in this entry. 

B-

Cindy Prascik's Review of Kong: Skull Island

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dearest Blog: Yesterday I took a trip through uncharted territory (well...Marquee Cinemas) to Kong: Skull Island.

 

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

 

A team of scientists and its military escort investigate a mysterious island in the Pacific.

 

Ladies and gentlemen: the third month of 2017 has presented us with what might end up being its best summer-style blockbuster.

 

The success of any movie featuring a character as iconic and oft-portrayed as Kong depends a great deal on how well it handles its icon. I am more than a little pleased to report that Skull Island's Kong is every bit as majestic and intimidating as he should be. See this movie in 3D on the biggest screen you can find; you'll deliver yourself straight into the jaws of the great gorilla himself. The other creature effects are pretty terrific, but, when it's down to nuts and bolts, Kong is definitely king. Skull Island's human cast--including Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, John Goodman, and John C. Reilly--is an impressively-decorated lot, elevating the outlandish premise and predictable dialogue. Skull Island boasts awesome locations and sets, terrifying battles, and fantastic disaster effects. It's funny when it wants to be, pointed when it needs to be, and thrilling from beginning to end. A rousing score by Henry Jackman, peppered with some great 70s tunes, perfectly underscores the movie's tone, and a fun post-credits scene makes sitting through 15 minutes of compositors' names worthwhile.

 

Kong: Skull Island clocks in at an even 120 minutes and is rated PG13 for "intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action, and for brief strong language."

 

Kong: Skull Island is a terrific popcorn feature, about as much fun as two hours at the cinema could be. Of a possible nine Weasleys, Kong: Skull Island gets eight.

 

Fangirl points: Toby Kebbell! Shea Whigham! (A man who improves any project fortunate enough to have him.) Also, for the record, Hiddles has never looked hotter!

 

Until next time... 

 

MOVIE REVIEW: LOGAN

In a hideout near the U.S./Mexico border, an aging Logan (Hugh Jackman) cares for the ailing Professor X (Patrick Stewart). However, their sheltered existence comes to a sudden end when a young mutant girl (Dafne Keen) arrives and needs their help to stay safe. James Mangold directed this film, the third Wolverine-based spin-off of the X-Men franchise. ~ Daniel Gelb, Rovi

Director: James Mangold

Cast: Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Stephen Merchant, Richard E. Grant, Eriq La Salle

Release Date: Mar 03, 2017

Rated R for Language Throughout, Brief Nudity and Strong Brutal Violence

Runtime: 2 hr. 15 min.

Genres: Action/Adventure, Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Review:

Logan is one of the rare comic book movies that works on multiple levels.  James Mangold and Huge Jackman had a big task ahead of them trying to give fans the kind of send off that the character deserves.  Both seemed to have a great affinity for the character and it shows onscreen.  Mangold delivers a somber dour film that’s as exciting as it’s moving.  There’s an added depth to the character that gives Jackman more to work with than he’s had in previous solo films.  As such, it’s a meatier more well rounded performance even though the basic story of child and guardian is well worn.  Patrick Stewart also delivers an excellent performance as aged Professor X.  Stewart is clearly having a grand time in the role since the script gives him something different to do than just sit in the wheelchair and look stately.  Dafne Keen is a revelation as X-23.  Keen is able to deliver an impressive performance even though it’s mostly done with limited dialogue.  It’s a pivotal character and if the child actor wasn’t as strong, the film wouldn’t have been as good as it ended up being.  Logan is a strong film but it does drag in a few spots.  Certain sections feel like they could have been cut all together making the film a sleeker and better film.  Even with those issues, Logan finally nails the heart of the character which is a perfect way to end Jackman’s tenure in the role.

B+

Cindy Prascik's Review of Logan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dearest Blog: Yesterday it was off to Marquee Cinemas for Hugh Jackman's final turn with the super sideburns, Logan.

 

Spoiler level here will be mild, mostly nothing you wouldn't get from trailers and clips.

 

A jaded, aging Logan is drawn from hiding to help a young mutant being pursued by some nasty characters.

 

Logan is a somber affair whose tone reflects its tired hero. This Logan isn't interested in saving the world, he's just trying to get by and get out. Action is plentiful, well-choreographed, and brutal, with decapitations and dismemberments aplenty. Do take that "R" rating seriously and leave the kids at home; graphic violence and bad language are pervasive. Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, and newcomer Dafne Keen turn in lovely performances that would not seem out of place on 2017's awards circuit, though timing and genre will probably leave them forgotten. The film suffers from its bloated runtime and tends to drag here and there. A trim would have worked in its favor, but otherwise, Logan is a superhero movie that's more than good enough to get away with taking itself so seriously. 

 

Logan clocks in at 137 minutes and is rated R for "strong brutal violence and language throughout, and for brief nudity."

 

It's not quite The Dark Knight or Captain America: The Winter Soldier, but Logan is definitely one for the ages. Of a possible nine Weasleys, Logan gets eight.

 

Fangirl points: Stephen Merchant! Richard E. Grant!

 

Until next time...

MOVIE REVIEW: JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 2

Legendary hitman John Wick (Keanu Reeves) is once again called out of retirement, this time by a former colleague (Riccardo Scamarcio) who wants him to repay a debt by killing an Italian crime lord (Claudia Gerini). But when the attempted assassination goes awry, Wick finds himself hunted by an international cabal of killers, and his only hope for survival might be a shadowy figure known as the Bowery King (Laurence Fishburne). Director Chad Stahelski and screenwriter Derek Kolstad return for this sequel to their 2014 cult action hit. Ian McShane, Ruby Rose, John Leguizamo, Common, Lance Reddick, and Bridget Moynahan co-star. ~ Daniel Gelb, Rovi

Director: Chad Stahelski

Cast: Keanu Reeves, Common, John Leguizamo, Bridget Moynahan, Laurence Fishburne

Release Date: Feb 10, 2017

Rated R for Strong Violence Throughout, Some Language and Brief Nudity

Runtime: 2 hr. 2 min.

Genres: Action/Adventure, Suspense/Thriller

John Wick: Chapter 2 does everything a sequel should do by upping the action and expanding the world from the first film.  Chad Stahelski seems to have a firm understanding of what worked from the first film.  As such, we are treated to a virtual ballet of bullets during some impressively choreographed sequences.  The story opens up the network of hitmen and support system which is fun even though it’s ludicrous anyway you cut it.  Still, it’s a fun bit of world building that gives the story a neat frame work which introduces us to a wide variety of characters.  Keanu Reeves does his best work during the action sequences which is hardly a surprise.  Reeves has never been an acting powerhouse so it’s the film benefit that he’s got limited requirements as Wick.  The supporting players like Ian McShane, Common and Laurence Fishburne give the film a bit more body than it probably deserves.  The biggest stretch for the film is Ruby Rose who never really fits in.  It might have something to do with the fact that she looks more like a female Justin Bieber than any sort of menacing badass.  It’s not a major drawback because there are so many people trying to kill John Wick, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle especially since nearly 90% of the population of New York is trained hitmen.  At certain points, the film does begin to suffer from attrition simply because there’s so much going on in the final act.  John Wick: Chapter 2 sets up the 3^rd entry nicely which should make for a fun capper to the series.  

B

MOVIE REVIEW: GET OUT

A young African-American photographer (Daniel Kaluuya) is nervous at the thought of meeting his white girlfriend's parents (Catherine Keener and Bradley Whitford) for the first time during a trip to the latter's country estate. However, his anxiety soon turns into outright terror when he discovers that the family's seemingly idyllic community is hiding a sinister conspiracy, one that involves the disappearance of several black people in the area. Jordan Peele, one half of the comedic duo Jordan Peele, makes his directorial debut with this horror thriller. Allison Williams, LaKeith Stanfield, and Caleb Landry Jones co-star. ~ Jack Rodgers, Rovi

Director: Jordan Peele

Cast: Daniel Kaluuya, Bradley Whitford, Caleb Landry Jones, Stephen Root, LaKeith Stanfield, 

Allison Williams

Release Date: Feb 24, 2017

Rated R for Language, Bloody Images, Sexual References and Violence

Runtime: 1 hr. 44 min.

Genres: Horror, Suspense/Thriller

Review:

Get Out is a fine debut for Jordan Peele even if it isn’t a landmark horror benchmark some have made it out to be.  Get Out plays more like a comedic satire of classic horror movie tropes with a racial slant.  As it plays out, it’s clear that Jordan Peele is a fan of classic films like Invasion of the Body Snatchers and The Stepford Wives.  On the downside there are few surprises for anyone who’s watched any of these films, resulting in a few jump scares but very little in the way of tension.  Thankfully, there’s a fair amount of laughs as the increasingly uncomfortable weekend unfurls for our protagonist.  Daniel Kaluuya is solid as the lead even if he isn’t given much to do outside of act uncomfortable and mildly terrified.  Allison Williams, and her dead eyes, is perfect for what the role calls for, which is very little.  Bradley Whitford and Catherine Keener are given fun roles, which they clearly relish, but there is practically mustache twirling unsettling from the get go.  As a result, there is a very little surprise about where any of these characters end up.  LaKeith Stanfield is given the best role in the film as Chris friend who spends the majority of the film telling him there’s something seriously off about the situation.  It’s a credit to Jordan Peele’s talent that he can make you overlook these short coming and deliver an enjoyable film.  Get Out isn’t a hallmark in horror filmmaking, the majority of hardcore horror buffs may walk out disappointed, but it’s a solid debut.

B+

MOVIE REVIEW: FIST FIGHT

On the last day before summer vacation at a rough-and-tumble high school, mild-mannered teacher Andy Campbell (Charlie Day) accidentally causes his fearsome colleague Ron Strickland (Ice Cube) to be fired. When Strickland then challenges him to a fist fight after school, Campbell must find a way to avoid a vicious beating. Tracy Morgan, Jillian Bell, Christina Hendricks, Dean Norris, and Dennis Haysbert co-star in this comedy directed by Richie Keen. ~ Jack Rodgers, Rovi

 Director: Richie Keen

Cast: Ice Cube, Charlie Day, Tracy Morgan, Jillian Bell, Dean Norris

Release Date: Feb 17, 2017

Rated R for language Throughout, Drug Material and Sexual Content/Nudity

Runtime: 1 hr. 31 min.

Genres: Comedy

Fist Fight is a silly comedy that moves at a frantic pace the moment it starts.  Boasting an excellent comedic cast led by Charlie Day, it’s a mindless comedy that never takes itself overly seriously.  Charlie Day is put front and center and fans of his style of manic comedy will find plenty to like.  Richie Keen does a serviceable job of directing the comedy even though there are plenty of missed opportunities.  The most glaring issue is that the film doesn’t take full advantage of its cast with excellent actors like Christina Hendricks and Dean Norris showing up in glorified cameos more than actual roles.  Both roles feel like they could have been expanded a bit to flesh out the nightmare facility.  Luckily Keen keeps Ice Cube relegated to playing a scowling hothead, leaving the comedy to the pros.  It’s a good choice that pays off in the end, leaving the audience with a perfectly zany R rated comedy.

B-

Cindy Prascik's Review of The Great Wall

 

 

Dearest Blog: Today it was off to Marquee Cinemas for oddball blockbuster The Great Wall. Spoiler level here will be mild, nothing you wouldn't know from the trailers.

 

A pair of mercenaries is conscripted into battle to save a Chinese city from hordes of terrifying creatures.

 

Dear reader(s): Thanks to a painful trailer, my best hope for The Great Wall was that it would be hilariously bad and not just bad. I am pleased to report that, while it's not winning any awards anytime soon, The Great Wall IS actually a pretty enjoyable way to pass a couple hours.

 

Liberally seasoned from the cliche jar, the Great Wall is deeply, deeply idiotic. Jarringly modern phrasing and Matt Damon's weirdly stilted diction are no help with the clunky script. The most pointed attempts at humor often miss the mark, but a light tone works strongly in the movie's favor. The Great Wall boasts some lovely scenery, spectacular costumes, excellent precision battle choreography, and solid creature effects. I didn't see the movie in 3D, but there are a few dizzying scenes that I expect would make it worth the upcharge and glasses headache. Wall-to-wall (see what I did there?) action never comes at the story's expense, and is perfectly accompanied by Ramin Djawadi's rousing score.

 

The Great Wall clocks in at 103 minutes and is rated PG13 for "sequences of fantasy action violence."

 

The story and the acting are nothing to write home about, but The Great Wall is a fun outing that's more than worth seeing on the big screen for it's extraordinary production values. Of a possible nine Weasleys, The Great Wall gets five.

 

Until next time...

MOVIE REVIEW: THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE

Batman (voice of Will Arnett) defends Gotham City from criminals and supervillains while bonding with a young orphan (Michael Cera) he accidentally adopted -- who, of course, eventually becomes his sidekick Robin. This spin-off of The Lego Movie also features the voices of Rosario Dawson as Batgirl, Zach Galifianakis as the Joker, and Ralph Fiennes as Batman's loyal butler Alfred Pennyworth. Directed by Chris McKay (Robot Chicken). ~ Daniel Gelb, Rovi

Director Chris McKay

Cast: Will Arnett, Michael Cera, Zach Galifianakis, Rosario Dawson, Ralph Fiennes

Release Date: Feb 10, 2017

Rated PG for Rude Humor and Some Action

Runtime: 1 hr. 44 min.

Genres: Action/Adventure, Animated, Comedy

The Lego Batman Movie is a worthy follow up to The Lego Movie.  It’s not as thoroughly enjoyable as The Lego Movie but it hits more often than it misses.  Will Arnett returns as the blocky caped crusader and he’s clearly having a ball.  Michael Cera costars as the overly eager to please Robin.  They both play off each other very well along with Rosario Dawson and Ralph Fiennes who round out the hero side of things.  Zach Galifianakis is just as much fun as the Lego Joker.  The plot itself is more simplistic than The Lego Movie but it’s filled with enough jokes and bat references to keep most adults laughing for the better part of the films running time.  Its visual flare and cast are enough to overlook most of its minor flaws.  

B+