I was going to watch this REGARDLESS of who directed or acted in it because of the opportunity to see a Disney classic recreated with today’s advanced technology. So- having it directed by Tim Burton and starring Michael Keaton, Danny DeVito, Colin Farrell and Eva Green was an added bonus for me before even taking my AMC recliner seat for this opening night viewing.
Dumbo (2019) clearly borrows much from the original version I watched numerous times as a kid. The underlying dynamic of a circus maestro trying to make a star attraction out of a baby elephant whose ears are comically overgrown still provides the basis around which the story unfolds; however, this version is much more than a simple remake. This version is most certainly a re-imagining as well, as it boasts an increased emphasis on the power of science and of women. In fact, the young Milly (played brilliantly by the promising young Nico Parker) often times steals the show with her displays of ingenuity and wisdom, both of which are characterized with an inconceivable maturity that nobody else involved can lay claim to. She displays an uncanny ability to feel empathy while still operating in such a calculated manner that, honestly, is refreshingly impactful.
This version of Dumbo also is nowhere near as dark as I expected it to be, given not only the original script but also Tim Burton’s directorial track record. There is still a Tim Burton grandeur to the film; but, it is not anchored by any overly ominous tone or anything of the sort. In fact, the film is rather uplifting in a way that pulls Dumbo’s story from the antagonistic fervor that characterizes a lot of the company’s earlier films and into today’s age of empowerment.
While the film runs an almost full two hours long, there are still jumps in the plot that seem a bit contrived and “fortunate” for its development. This makes certain spots feel brushed over; but, it's all in favor of moving things forward. Generally speaking, this version delivers the technological upgrade to a Disney classic I hoped for more than anything else, while also coming off with a more positive spin overall. Despite some holes in its plot, Dumbo (2019) works well enough for those willing to simply enjoy the ride. To really appreciate the cinematography, it should certainly be seen in theaters; and, if you’ve been watching movies since the 1980’s as I have, you will probably feel the hints of nostalgia that I did during several instances wherein the big screen is shared by 1992’s Batman (Michael Keaton) and Penguin (Danny DeVito). I’m giving Dumbo (2019) 3 reps out of 5for being a fun and innovative time with several on-screen moments of cinematographic splendor. If you’re worried about taking children in your life to see this movie because of a sort of “pessimistic” tone, DO NOT BE. It is much easier to digest than you might be inclined to believe.
So, will you be riding the wave of this latest Disney reboot? If and when you do, let me know what you’re looking forward to and how/if your expectations were met.
Friday, March 29, 2019
Friday, March 22, 2019
Us (watched March 21, 2019)
Jordan Peele’s (unrelated) follow-up to the wildly popular “Get Out” is finally here; and, it does not disappoint. As one can gather from the trailers, “Us” is about a family (the Wilsons) that is on vacation and for reasons not particularly clear to anyone, is forced to come face-to-face with another family that is comprised of individuals who, for the most part, bear a striking resemblance to each of its own family members.
What is immediately palpable from the very start of the movie is the particularly gripping musical score. There are reworkings of a number of famous tunes that at different times set the tone, heighten the intensity and also settle us down before taking us on the next roller coaster scene of high and lows. The musical accompaniment to Us deserves a lot of credit for driving the film forward and should undoubtedly be recognized with accolades in the form of several award nominations. Think Kanye West in "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy."
Us starts out with some backstory that sets up the entire movie with just enough information to reel the audience in and without divulging much at all about how it is connected to the present day story that takes place more than 30 years later. That aspect, in fact, is reminiscent of The Prodigy; but, this plot bridges that time gap much more quickly. That, in turn, means that MOST of the movie actually takes place in conflict, which is great news for moviegoers who have a tough time paying attention during moments of particularly less activity. Once the main conflict is introduced, the family finds itself in the crux of this “family feud” for the duration of the film, making it immensely suspenseful for basically the entirety of the audience’s experience.
However, Us is also just as thought-provoking and, at times, even confusing, as it is attention-grabbing. I could not help but try to find some sort of rhyme and/or reason behind the events that were unfolding before my eyes. And in those very moments I appreciated the film even more because the next big shock moment always came as I was in the very middle of my theorizing. This led to a very interesting dynamic wherein my mind and thoughts were often being pulled one way while my heart and emotions were being tugged in another.
The film boasts such Black Panther favorites as actors Lupita Nyong'o and Winston Duke, who are both amazing in their own right and both of whom are destined to continue making magic on screen. But, the Wilson family is actually on vacation with another family whose matriarch I was ECSTATIC to see because I love this actress and had no idea she was in this film as well. I will not divulge her identity to avoid spoiling it for those of you who did not know she was in the film either. Us is one hour and fifty minutes long but because of the aforementioned nature of the plot, it does not suffer from even one dull moment that I can recall. The film is thoroughly suspenseful throughout and perhaps even more thought-provoking, which is why I give Us 4 STRONG reps out of 5. There are some who, even like myself, to some extent, might have a gripe with the ending; but, that is the nature of the horror genre. No ending is ever perfect for everybody; but, the discussions that will inevitably be had as more and more people watch the film should overshadow any such nit-picking. Us definitely deserves to be experienced on the big screen; and, I would suggest doing so sooner rather than later before everyone is spoiling it for those among you who will inevitably take longer to see it than one should. Jordan Peele has firmly entrenched himself as a modern day horror genre pioneer seemingly out of NOWHERE and I can’t WAIT to see what he comes out with next. There is a real sense of "magical realism" that runs through US more so than in Get Out, a trend which I would love to see continue with subsequent Jordan Peele films.
So, did you come face-to-face with “Us” yet? Let me know in the comments section what your thoughts are regarding the film whether you have or haven’t seen it yet!
TRAILER THOUGHTS!
Aside from the now too often repeated "Avengers: End Game" trailer, one other trailer stood out. Matthew McConaughey will soon be BACK alongside such favorites as Jonah Hill, Zac Efron, Martin Lawrence, Isla Fisher and Snoop D-O-double G himself in what promises to be a HYSTERICAL time with "The Beach Bum." That looks like a BALL OF LAUGHTER waiting to explode.
What is immediately palpable from the very start of the movie is the particularly gripping musical score. There are reworkings of a number of famous tunes that at different times set the tone, heighten the intensity and also settle us down before taking us on the next roller coaster scene of high and lows. The musical accompaniment to Us deserves a lot of credit for driving the film forward and should undoubtedly be recognized with accolades in the form of several award nominations. Think Kanye West in "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy."
Us starts out with some backstory that sets up the entire movie with just enough information to reel the audience in and without divulging much at all about how it is connected to the present day story that takes place more than 30 years later. That aspect, in fact, is reminiscent of The Prodigy; but, this plot bridges that time gap much more quickly. That, in turn, means that MOST of the movie actually takes place in conflict, which is great news for moviegoers who have a tough time paying attention during moments of particularly less activity. Once the main conflict is introduced, the family finds itself in the crux of this “family feud” for the duration of the film, making it immensely suspenseful for basically the entirety of the audience’s experience.
However, Us is also just as thought-provoking and, at times, even confusing, as it is attention-grabbing. I could not help but try to find some sort of rhyme and/or reason behind the events that were unfolding before my eyes. And in those very moments I appreciated the film even more because the next big shock moment always came as I was in the very middle of my theorizing. This led to a very interesting dynamic wherein my mind and thoughts were often being pulled one way while my heart and emotions were being tugged in another.
The film boasts such Black Panther favorites as actors Lupita Nyong'o and Winston Duke, who are both amazing in their own right and both of whom are destined to continue making magic on screen. But, the Wilson family is actually on vacation with another family whose matriarch I was ECSTATIC to see because I love this actress and had no idea she was in this film as well. I will not divulge her identity to avoid spoiling it for those of you who did not know she was in the film either. Us is one hour and fifty minutes long but because of the aforementioned nature of the plot, it does not suffer from even one dull moment that I can recall. The film is thoroughly suspenseful throughout and perhaps even more thought-provoking, which is why I give Us 4 STRONG reps out of 5. There are some who, even like myself, to some extent, might have a gripe with the ending; but, that is the nature of the horror genre. No ending is ever perfect for everybody; but, the discussions that will inevitably be had as more and more people watch the film should overshadow any such nit-picking. Us definitely deserves to be experienced on the big screen; and, I would suggest doing so sooner rather than later before everyone is spoiling it for those among you who will inevitably take longer to see it than one should. Jordan Peele has firmly entrenched himself as a modern day horror genre pioneer seemingly out of NOWHERE and I can’t WAIT to see what he comes out with next. There is a real sense of "magical realism" that runs through US more so than in Get Out, a trend which I would love to see continue with subsequent Jordan Peele films.
So, did you come face-to-face with “Us” yet? Let me know in the comments section what your thoughts are regarding the film whether you have or haven’t seen it yet!
TRAILER THOUGHTS!
Aside from the now too often repeated "Avengers: End Game" trailer, one other trailer stood out. Matthew McConaughey will soon be BACK alongside such favorites as Jonah Hill, Zac Efron, Martin Lawrence, Isla Fisher and Snoop D-O-double G himself in what promises to be a HYSTERICAL time with "The Beach Bum." That looks like a BALL OF LAUGHTER waiting to explode.
Wednesday, March 13, 2019
Fighting with My Family (watched March 12, 2019)
I was a HUGE fan of professional wrestling growing up; religiously watching WWF and becoming so addicted that eventually I began to watch WCW and even, to a lesser extent, ECW. As I grew older and more into other sports, I left the world of professional wrestling fandom just as Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson was transitioning from wrestling superstar to WORLD superstar. However, I still try to catch the bigger annual WWE events like Royal Rumble and WrestleMania, while also watching documentaries that illuminate much about the actual business and history behind the sport. “Fighting with My Family” works as both entertaining and informative.
The film tells the story of how WWE Women’s Superstar “Paige” grew up in the family business of wrestling and made it all the way to the main roster of the WWE. While I always find it difficult NOT to invest in any true story I decide to listen to or watch, the film does a number of other things very well. For one, the audience is treated to a meaningful look at the relationship between all of Paige’s family members without lingering on that aspect even slightly too long. Then, it narrows the focus more so to the relationship between Paige (played by the loveable Florence Pugh) and her brother Zak (played by the endearing and surprisingly relatable Jack Lowden) who, along with his sister, had wanted to make it to the big stage of professional wrestling since they were children.
As expected, we are also treated to a number of cameos by famous wrestlers, the most popular of all, of course, being the Rock. But even the Rock’s role is informative, as he appears just the right amount to move the story along without shifting focus to him for any extended period of time. Vince Vaughn, who plays Hutch or “Coach” is also just as simultaneously lighthearted as he is assertive, bringing to the film yet another tone-setting presence. I also particularly enjoyed the way Paige and Zak’s relationship can be seen evolving throughout, even and at times, especially, when they’re not together.
“Fighting with My Family” is MUCH more than a wrestling movie. While telling Paige’s story, it certainly illuminates much about the inner workings and difficulties behind making it big. But, it also does an incredible job at reminding the audience that just because millions of people aren’t watching you, does not mean you are not just as capable of doing extraordinary things and having a major impact on the lives of others. For being funny, informative and extremely well put together, I give the film a strong 3.5 reps out of 5 and strongly encourage all moviegoers to watch it, whether in theatres or at home, as soon as possible. It’s a seamless hour and forty minute watch that should appeal to both wrestling fans and non-wrestling followers alike. And, if you’re at the tip of your patience waiting for the final season of Game of Thrones as I am, then you’ll also love the film’s dose of Lena Headey, who I first fell for in “300” as she played King Leonidas’ wife Queen Gorgo and currently plays the role of Cersei Lannister in GoT.
Has this film clotheslined your funny bones yet? Have you had the chance to learn about the world and business of wrestling entertainment by watching Fighting with My Family? Let me know either way in the comments below and don’t be surprised if we become good pals after connecting over such a great film!
The film tells the story of how WWE Women’s Superstar “Paige” grew up in the family business of wrestling and made it all the way to the main roster of the WWE. While I always find it difficult NOT to invest in any true story I decide to listen to or watch, the film does a number of other things very well. For one, the audience is treated to a meaningful look at the relationship between all of Paige’s family members without lingering on that aspect even slightly too long. Then, it narrows the focus more so to the relationship between Paige (played by the loveable Florence Pugh) and her brother Zak (played by the endearing and surprisingly relatable Jack Lowden) who, along with his sister, had wanted to make it to the big stage of professional wrestling since they were children.
As expected, we are also treated to a number of cameos by famous wrestlers, the most popular of all, of course, being the Rock. But even the Rock’s role is informative, as he appears just the right amount to move the story along without shifting focus to him for any extended period of time. Vince Vaughn, who plays Hutch or “Coach” is also just as simultaneously lighthearted as he is assertive, bringing to the film yet another tone-setting presence. I also particularly enjoyed the way Paige and Zak’s relationship can be seen evolving throughout, even and at times, especially, when they’re not together.
“Fighting with My Family” is MUCH more than a wrestling movie. While telling Paige’s story, it certainly illuminates much about the inner workings and difficulties behind making it big. But, it also does an incredible job at reminding the audience that just because millions of people aren’t watching you, does not mean you are not just as capable of doing extraordinary things and having a major impact on the lives of others. For being funny, informative and extremely well put together, I give the film a strong 3.5 reps out of 5 and strongly encourage all moviegoers to watch it, whether in theatres or at home, as soon as possible. It’s a seamless hour and forty minute watch that should appeal to both wrestling fans and non-wrestling followers alike. And, if you’re at the tip of your patience waiting for the final season of Game of Thrones as I am, then you’ll also love the film’s dose of Lena Headey, who I first fell for in “300” as she played King Leonidas’ wife Queen Gorgo and currently plays the role of Cersei Lannister in GoT.
Has this film clotheslined your funny bones yet? Have you had the chance to learn about the world and business of wrestling entertainment by watching Fighting with My Family? Let me know either way in the comments below and don’t be surprised if we become good pals after connecting over such a great film!
Friday, March 8, 2019
Captain Marvel (watched March 7, 2019)
Understandably so, there is a LOT of hype behind Marvel Studios’ “Captain Marvel,” making it one of the most anticipated movie releases of the entire year. So, let me get right into it.
Captain Marvel is the “origin story” behind not only how the female superhero came to develop her powers; but, also how she came to discover who she is as a person. It takes place back in 1995; which lends itself to a number of “throwback” moments that I won’t ruin for you; and, it kicks off with a look into an intergalactic war between the alien races of the Kree and the Skrulls. Carol Danvers aka Vers, who later becomes Captain Marvel and is played by the up-and-coming talent in Brie Larson, is a human living alongside the Kree but without much recollection of her past life on earth beyond some flashbacks that manifest themselves in pressure moments. If this dynamic feels familiar, then you were probably among those of us who recently saw Alita: Battle Angel, wherein the kick-ass cyborg faces her own struggles in trying to remember her life before the one she is currently living.
Vers is seen developing her strength and physical prowess by participating in a number of missions that eventually sees her crash-landing on Earth. It is there that she runs into a younger-than-ever-before-seen S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Nick Fury, who, of course, is played by the legend Samuel L. Jackson (BEFORE the eye patch), as the two embark on adventures together “doing good” and “saving the world” one day at a time. The two share a spirited yet lighthearted banter that, along with the setting, make their time together on screen feel like a 90’s action comedy. Eventually, Vers rediscovers her past life with Fury’s help and develops a sense of purpose and power that help her become Captain Marvel and EASILY the strongest of any Marvel superhero of the bunch.
The film is slightly over two hours and certainly comes with its share of more dull moments as a result of being an origin story. While it takes some time for it to kick into another gear, the film does, finally, get to a handful of INTENSE action sequences that have become “the bread and butter” of the Marvel Comic Universe (MCU). It is also very much in line with the recent shift towards depictions of female empowerment, fittingly releasing (officially) on Friday, March 8th: International Women’s Day. But, Captain Marvel does not offer much else that feels “new” or “different.” The film feels more like a Nick Fury buddy piece carried by nostalgia, hints of comedy and some VERY gnarly action scenes that will probably stick out more than anything else. For having its lulls, interspersed comedy and grandiose action scenes that are worth the wait but still way less plentiful than hoped for, Captain Marvel gets 3 reps out of 5 from me. I saw it in 4DX; so, the action scenes alone were worth it and are the main reason why this film should be watched in theaters. But, it probably doesn’t need to be seen multiple times. Stick around for one post-credits scene that ties the movie DIRECTLY to the upcoming Avengers film “Endgame” and makes Captain Marvel feel more like a hype train for that movie (coming out in less than two months) than anything else. There’s also a second post-credits scene after the entire credits finish rolling that is more lighthearted and an homage to a furry feline who steals the show in a couple of moments.
What did you think about Captain Marvel? What was your biggest takeaway from this film and how do you feel it fits into the MCU?
TRAILER THOUGHTS!
I’ve decided to start including some thoughts on trailers I might have come across during my viewing that made a particular impact, since those are a huge part of the theater-visiting experience for me.
"Spider-Man: Far From Hom" looks poised to be the biggest MCU movie not called “Avengers” that has come out in a while, particularly because of the sheer number of superheroes that will be in it.
The trailer to "Frozen II" was also particularly interesting and attention-grabbing, even for somebody like I, who is not a particularly huge fan of the first film, but who certainly appreciates it (and CERTAINLY appreciates Evan Rachel Wood!!!!).
"Dark Phoenix" feels like a film that's been a lifetime in the making; and, I can’t WAIT to see it following the final season of Game of Thrones, as GoT favorite Sophie Turner returns as Phoenix.
"Rocketman," which tells the story of Elton John's skyrocketed trajectory to superstardom is also in the works and looks full of all the life the man himself is.
Wednesday, March 6, 2019
Greta (watched March 5, 2019)
Unless I happen to see a movie’s trailer while I’m watching something else or there’s a lot of history behind an upcoming film, sometimes I’ll throw caution to the wind and watch a film strictly based off of who’s in it. “Greta” is one such example of this, as I am a huge fan of Chloë Grace Moretz and decided to watch this film for her and her alone, as I knew absolutely nothing about it. And I am so glad I did- so much so, in fact, that I would like to recommend everyone reading this stop right now and just go watch the movie without any background information, as I did.
For those of you who just couldn’t resist my way with words; here goes.
Moretz plays the role of Frances McCullen, who is a recent college graduate working as a waitress in New York City and sharing a loft bought for her roommate Erica (played by the very likeable Maika Monroe) by Erica’s parents as a college graduation gift. I know- SICK gift, right?! After work one night, Frances comes across a nice purse left on the same train she’s taking home. Untrusting of others and with no station attendant present, she decides to take the bag home to return it to its rightful owner the following day. Upon visiting the purse’s owner Greta (played by renowned actress Isabelle Huppert), Frances takes a liking to her, as the two share a cup of coffee and a conversation. Having recently lost her mother, Frances finds herself spending more and more time getting to know the elder Greta, as the two develop an increasingly close bond.
However, their relationship proves somewhat troubling as neither of the two can find themselves being completely honest with the other about what exactly it is they are hoping to get out of this quickly escalating relationship. While Erica attempts to remind Frances that nobody can replace her mother, Greta is similarly looking towards Frances to fill the void of Greta’s own daughter, whom she no longer sees as often as she would like either.
My favorite aspect of the film is the anticipation built up in its more tense scenes. The creators and actors do such an amazing job of letting the awkward and uneasy tension manifested by this sudden bond linger to the point where the audience is begging for the next big reveal and/or development. In fact, there are moments throughout the film that reminded me very much so of the feelings I had when first watching Alfred Hitchcock’s “Rear Window,” which later on went to inspire the more widely known “Disturbia” film starring Shia LaBeouf. As much as we see the pair of ladies grow closer together right before our eyes, the audience always retains a sense that there is more to the story than is being let on.
As with most films, there are scenes that work better with a heightened suspension of disbelief; but, the overall intrigue of discovering just how far their bond will grow overshadows them in most cases. The film goes from being lighthearted to a gripping suspense in short order; and, the cinematography works seamlessly to enhance the increasingly complicated dynamic between Frances and Greta. For divulging information at a methodical pace that draws audience members in and executing well during moments of particularly high intensity, I give Greta 4 reps out of 5. While it doesn’t necessarily have to be seen in theaters to engender a similar effect, Greta is no longer than a 95 minute watch, making it a particularly good fit for an in-theatre viewing.
Have any of you made Greta’s acquaintance yet? Was she as nice to you as she was to Frances? Let me know what you think in the comments section of this post!
For those of you who just couldn’t resist my way with words; here goes.
Moretz plays the role of Frances McCullen, who is a recent college graduate working as a waitress in New York City and sharing a loft bought for her roommate Erica (played by the very likeable Maika Monroe) by Erica’s parents as a college graduation gift. I know- SICK gift, right?! After work one night, Frances comes across a nice purse left on the same train she’s taking home. Untrusting of others and with no station attendant present, she decides to take the bag home to return it to its rightful owner the following day. Upon visiting the purse’s owner Greta (played by renowned actress Isabelle Huppert), Frances takes a liking to her, as the two share a cup of coffee and a conversation. Having recently lost her mother, Frances finds herself spending more and more time getting to know the elder Greta, as the two develop an increasingly close bond.
However, their relationship proves somewhat troubling as neither of the two can find themselves being completely honest with the other about what exactly it is they are hoping to get out of this quickly escalating relationship. While Erica attempts to remind Frances that nobody can replace her mother, Greta is similarly looking towards Frances to fill the void of Greta’s own daughter, whom she no longer sees as often as she would like either.
My favorite aspect of the film is the anticipation built up in its more tense scenes. The creators and actors do such an amazing job of letting the awkward and uneasy tension manifested by this sudden bond linger to the point where the audience is begging for the next big reveal and/or development. In fact, there are moments throughout the film that reminded me very much so of the feelings I had when first watching Alfred Hitchcock’s “Rear Window,” which later on went to inspire the more widely known “Disturbia” film starring Shia LaBeouf. As much as we see the pair of ladies grow closer together right before our eyes, the audience always retains a sense that there is more to the story than is being let on.
As with most films, there are scenes that work better with a heightened suspension of disbelief; but, the overall intrigue of discovering just how far their bond will grow overshadows them in most cases. The film goes from being lighthearted to a gripping suspense in short order; and, the cinematography works seamlessly to enhance the increasingly complicated dynamic between Frances and Greta. For divulging information at a methodical pace that draws audience members in and executing well during moments of particularly high intensity, I give Greta 4 reps out of 5. While it doesn’t necessarily have to be seen in theaters to engender a similar effect, Greta is no longer than a 95 minute watch, making it a particularly good fit for an in-theatre viewing.
Have any of you made Greta’s acquaintance yet? Was she as nice to you as she was to Frances? Let me know what you think in the comments section of this post!
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