The Batman

If anyone has seen this blog, they may remember my family is very big into superheroes; none bigger than the Caped Crusader himself. There was no way we could miss a chance to see the latest Dark Knight adventure. We knew going into the film it was probably going to be dark, but what actually happened completely blew my families mind. Possible spoilers ahead. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.

Despite fighting crime for two years Batman/Bruce Wayne (Robert Pattinson), has the criminals and citizens of Gotham terrified. The only people Bruce trusts are Alfred (Andy Serkis), although they have a strained relationship and Lieutenant James Gordan (Jeffrey Wright), the only police officer Batman sees as incorruptible. On Halloween night the mayor of Gotham is gruesomely murdered by a man calling himself The Riddler (Paul Dano), and he leaves a message for Batman indicating more to come. Batman’s search soon takes him to the Iceberg Lounge run by Oswald Cobblepot/Penguin (Colin Farrell), the right hand of mob boss Carmine Falcone (John Turturro). He also becomes enamored with Selina Kyle/Catwoman (Zoë Kravitz) a waitress at the club, and cat burglar. Batman brings Selina on the case after her roommate disappears, but she seems to know more than she is letting on. As Riddler continues killing more political figures and sending messages to Batman, Bruce must figure out Riddler’s endgame; but it may destroy him in the process.

I know many have been calling this the best Batman movie since The Dark Knight; I cannot say for certain if I would put it that high, but it was pretty darn close. I was very pleasantly surprised by Pattinson’s performance as both Bruce and Batman. Many may still think of him as Edward from Twilight, but for me he has easily grown out of that role. Pattinson not only nailed Bruce’s reclusiveness but the darkness fans know and love about Batman. There was also a refreshing touch of inexperience from Batman; we have to remember this Batman hasn’t been doing it for as long as some of the other on-screen Batmen. Kravitz was stunning as the cat who captures money and hearts. She captures the sexiness and sassiness fans enjoy about Catwoman, but also shows Selina’s vulnerability. I know a report came out on how Kravitz wanted to audition for the same role for The Dark Knight Rises and believes she was turned down because of her skin. I do not agree anyone should loose a role for something such as race, but I believe fate stepped in to say “not yet.” Kravitz and Pattinson’s chemistry was great, but I felt there was a dynamic missing compared to other showings of Batman and Catwoman; however should both return for sequels it may change my opinion.

Wright has been an actor I’ve admired for some time, and my admiration continued as he played Gordon to perfection. Serkis’s portrayal as Alfred was different than previous film adaptations; more grittier with life wearing down on him, but still trying to protect Bruce. Anyone who said they recognized Colin Farrell immediately as Penguin was probably lying, but that only added more to his performance. However for me the standout for The Batman was Paul Dano as the Riddler. I have seen Dano act in other films as a creepy person, but this was perhaps his most scariest role yet. Riddler has been one of those comic book villains people don’t take seriously, but can be one of the most dangerous. I wouldn’t have called film adaptations of Riddler psychotic, with Corey Michael Smith’s television portrayal on Gotham being an exception, but Dano made Riddler one of the most scariest villains I’ve seen in a live action Batman film; can I also say any bad guy who has an affinity for opera makes them even more creepier.

Besides the cast the atmosphere of The Batman felt very dark; its Gotham I didn’t expect anything less. The cinematography was brilliant and the score added perfect elements to the scenes. Of course I cannot forget about the Batmobile. I really enjoyed how much it looked like a DeLorean, and the car chase scenes had me on the edge of my seat. It has been reported sequels are on the way as well as a couple television series. Time will tell if the sequels will live up to how great this film is. The Batman is perhaps one of the best Batman films (animated included) I’ve seen in the past decade, and I would strongly recommend it for anyone. Enjoy your trip on a very dark journey.

No Time To Die

I know it has been a long time since I have written on this blog; there were opportunities that I had to focus on and it took me away from something I love dearly. There is something I have been working on for nearly a year and it has taken a bit longer than expected. In the meantime anyone who has read my blogs may have know there was no way I could pass up not reviewing the latest adventure of 007. As this is still in theaters I will try and be discreate with spoilers, but just in case a spoiler alert is being issued. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.

Five years after the events of Spectre. James Bond (Daniel Craig) has retired after ending his relationship with Dr. Madeline Swann (Lea Seydoux). However Bond and retirement never seem to last too long. Felix Leiter (Jeffrey Wright) tells Bond a MI6 scientist Valdo Obruchev (David Dencik) has been taken. Obruchev had been working on a project for M (Ralph Fiennes) known as Project Hercules, a way to kill a target using their DNA without harming others; oh yeah cause there’s no way a bad guy can’t twist that wrong. Bond agrees to help Leiter and his colleagues Logan Ash (Billy Magnussen) and Paloma (Ana de Armas) whilst meeting the spy who took over his status as 007: Nomi (Lashanna Lynch), but the mission ends in tragedy and treachery. Returning to MI6, Bond reunites with M, Moneypenny (Naomi Harris), Q (Ben Whishaw), Madeline, Nomi, and, to his dismay, Ernst Stavro Blofeld (Christoph Waltz) all of them determined to find Project Hercules and the psychopath orchestrating everything. The man: Lyutsifer Stein (Rami Malik), who is hellbent on revenge, changing the world and torturing Bond with a secret over Madeline’s head that changes the franchise forever.

As this was established as Daniel Craig’s final run as James Bond I knew they would go all out, and the film did not disappoint. I maintain that Skyfall is Craig’s best performance as 007, but he did extremely well in this film. Many critics have called it the best way to have ended Craig’s run as everyone’s favorite spy and I whole heartedly agree. It was great to see everyone back for one more time as their respective characters while introducing new people. When I heard Lashanna Lynch has been cast as a Bond equal I was intrigued having seen her in Captain Marvel. She completely blew my mind as Nomi and left me very curious to know more about her character should she go forward. However the true standout of the film was Rami Malik. The Oscar winner oozed creepy the moment he appeared on-screen and captivated me with every word. I would not call him the best villain of the Daniel Craig era of Bond, but he’s definitely the one to watch in No Time to Die. I would a s well like to point out to those who enjoy the Bond soundtracks they will enjoy the theme song this year. The song titled “No Time to Die” sung by Billie Elish who also co-wrote as well as her brother Finneas O’Connell and Miles Ale. No Time to Die has won a Grammy already this past year, but time will tell if the Oscar may also be in the future. Classic Bond fans may want to keep their ears open during the credits for a fan favorite Bond song.

I would definitely say the film, while I would not yet call it must see just yet, was worth the nearly year long wait. I for one could not think of a better conclusion to Daniel Craig. On behalf of all the Bond fans I would like to thank Craig for his 15 year stint as 007 and wish him well with his future projects. I cannot say for sure when the next 007 film will be nor who will take up the mantle, but one thing I can say: it has been a crazy ride.

Happy Birthday Colin Firth!

There are actors or actresses I tend to look for in movies and TV; if I see them I usually know whether it is going to be good or bad. One such actor I have admired for years, whose birthday is today, is Colin Firth. Whether he is wooing hearts, being dramatic or making audiences laugh Firth has always been an actor audiences have loved for many years. Today on his 58th birthday we are going to take a look at some of Firth’s film and TV career and what is worth watching.

Pride and Prejudice miniseries. Firth had been acting in films and television prior for some time, but his career skyrocketed after this 1995 miniseries about the beloved Jane Austin novel. Despite his objections at first Firth was cast as the male lead character Mr. Darcy, a man who becomes the main love interest and annoyance of Elizabeth Bennet. Critics and audiences loved him, particularly the famous scene at the lake, and Firth’s career has never been the same since. In a twist of fate if it wasn’t for this miniseries author Helen Fielding may never have written her famous Bridget Jones books and we wouldn’t have had some of the more memorable performances of Renée Zellweger, Hugh Grant and of course Firth.

Shakespeare in Love. It might be odd to see Firth in a villainous like role, but that is exactly what he was in this 1998 romantic drama film. Firth portrays Lord Wessex, an aristocrat who intends to keep his betrothed Viola (Gwyneth Paltrow) close by. However he might be thwarted because Viola, who disguises as a man to participate in a play, has fallen in love with William Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes). Firth hasn’t played many villains in his career so it was interesting to see him in this role. I kinda hope he plays more villains in the future.

Bridget Jones Diary franchise. A more modern take on Jane Austin’s Pride & Prejudice, with Firth playing a very similar role. Here he is Mark Darcy (the last name speaks for itself), an old family friend of Bridget Jones (Renée Zellweger). In the first film, released in 2001, they at first do not get along, but anyone familiar with the story knows how it goes. Throughout the first film and the two sequels, released in 2004 and in 2016 respectively, Mark and Bridget’s relationship has ups and downs (and other men), but at the end of the day they were meant to be. Firth is spectacular as Mark and had excellent chemistry with Zellweger.

Love Actually. One of the go-to romantic comedies, as well as Christmas movies. This 2003 British film has so many stars and love stories, but Firth still manages to stand out. He stars as Jamie, a writer whose heart is broken when he discovers his girlfriend is sleeping with his brother. Retreating to his French cottage Jamie meets the new housekeeper Aurélia (Lúcia Moniz). Despite not speaking the same language Jamie and Aurélia fall in love. Firth is one of my favorite actors/characters in this movie and watching him overcome heartbreak and fall in love again is just so sweet to watch. Firth would reprise his role for the Red Nose Day special.

What a Girl Wants. If younger generations were not familiar with Firth they may have been after watching this 2004 teen movie. Firth plays Henry Dashwood, a wealthy lord running for the House of Commons with the promise of becoming Prime Minister. However his past comes back when his long lost daughter Daphne Reynolds (Amanda Bynes) arrives in England to finally meet him. Henry must come to terms with what he really wants, and Daphne might just the key to figuring it all out. Firth is downright hysterical in this movie (there is a scene with him in leather pants, enough said there.) He also comes off as a great father figure to Amanda Bynes’s character. This is a great movie for a girl’s night in.

Nanny McPhee. Like in the previous film Firth plays a father trying to do what is right for his children, but this time he gets a little help. This 2005 film stars Firth as Cedric Brown a widowed undertaker with seven nasty and unruly children during Victorian England. Desperate he hires Nanny McPhee (Emma Thompson) to help take care of his children; which she does with a little magic. Cedric is told by his late wife’s wealthy aunt if he doesn’t marry soon she will take away the children and their home. Firth is pretty funny in this role as he somehow manages to keep the kids under control (some of the time.) Definitely a great family movie to keep an eye on.

Mamma Mia! Firth isn’t much of a singer, but that did not stop him from being cast in this 2008 guilty pleasure musical. Here Firth is Harry Bright, a banker and one of Sophie’s (Amanda Seyfried) possible dads. He seems to want to do the right thing if Sophie is his, and is probably the funnier of the other dads. Despite not having the greatest singing voice (which most of the cast doesn’t) Firth is still an absolute joy to watch. He would reprise his role in the 2018 sequel, and was still just as entertaining.

A Single Man. This 2009 drama based on the best-selling novel might not be as well-known as some of the other films on this list, but it was a major hit for Firth’s career. Nominated for his first Oscar for his part Firth portrays George Falconer a gay professor in 1962 who is struggling with depression after the death of his lover. The film was mostly well received, but the critics agreed that Firth’s performance stood out.

The King’s Speech. If there is one film with Colin Firth that will probably be viewed for many years it will without a doubt be this 2010 historical drama. Based on a true story Firth brilliantly performs as Prince Albert Duke of York, later named King George VI. With the help of his wife, the queen consort Elisabeth (Helena Bonham Carter), King George sees Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush) a speech therapist. Seeing Firth’s character struggle with his stutter and the relationship he builds with Lionel is breathtaking, hence why Firth won the Oscar for Best Actor. Many years from now I believe we will look back on this performance as Firth’s best.

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. There have been many versions of the famous 1974 novel by John le Carré, but this 2011 film is regarded as one of the better ones. Firth stars as Bill Haydon, the “Tailor” as he along with a team of spies trade secrets during the Cold War. Firth’s character is charming, but like most of the characters in here has a dark side. As stated in another film Firth doesn’t usually portray guys in bad lights, but he still stands out among a star filled cast including Gary Oldman, Tom Hardy, Mark Strong and Benedict Cumberbatch.

The Kingsman franchise. When most think action movie star Colin Firth might not be the first or even fifth to come to mind. Yet in the Kingsman films he is not only funny but can kick butt or kill just as good as some of the best action stars (OK I admit it’s over the top but it is expected.) Firth plays Harry Hart aka Galahad, an agent of the Kingsman, an undercover intelligence service. In the 2014 film he recruits the son of a former student, Eggsy (Taron Egerton) to become a Kingsman. He appears to have been killed, but in the sequel, released in 2017, he makes a surprising comeback. While I don’t think Firth is doing action movies anytime soon, this showed he could not only do it, but do it well. Some of the best scenes are him with a straight face responding to a quip with one of his own (makes the scene that much better.)

Colin Firth is without question one of the best actors today and with films coming including Mary Poppins Returns and The Secret Garden his career is not slowing down anytime soon. Happy birthday Colin Firth!

Is there a Colin Firth performance not on this list but should be? What is your favorite film or TV appearance by Firth? Comment below please.

Photo is courtesy of IMDB. No copyright infringement is intended.

Atlantic Highlands Historical Society Brings Horror Back In October

Summer may be over soon, but most are very excited for the fall season to come. Many are looking forward to October because it means Halloween, pumpkin picking and scary movies. For many years the Atlantic Highlands Historical Society (AHHS) in Atlantic Highlands, NJ has screened classic silent films, but their most successful time is in October. Over the past two years people have flocked to the Strauss Mansion Museum to watch some of the scariest silent horror movies including a late 1970’s classic filmed right in the museum.

The AHHS was first formed in 1973, coinciding with the United States of America’s 200^th birthday in 1976. They had no official headquarters until an opportunity came in 1980. The Strauss Mansion Museum which is famous for being the home in the 1979 controversial horror film “Don’t Go in the House” was going to be torn down by the town because of its deplorable and unsafe conditions. The AHHS was not going to let it happen and bought the property to become the new home, archive and library for the Society. It would be years of repairs before the museum opened to the public in 1986. According to one of the AHHS Board Member and Halloween Co-Chair Greg Caggiano they are still working on restoring the museum to its former glory.

Mr. Caggiano has been a part of the AHHS for six years with five of them as a member of the committee. He co-chairs alongside Joanne Dellosso while also working with former members of the board now volunteers Roy Dellosso and Lou Filgor. “The three of them have been involved in the AHHS for more than 20 years” said Mr. Caggiano “Their experience and expertise are invaluable.” Ms. Dellosso, Mr. Dellosso and Mr. Filgor have played huge parts in making the tours at Strauss Mansion Museum in October scarier than in previous years. According to Mr. Caggiano they started off taking tours around Prospect Circle before moving on to the works of Edgar Allen Poe. Currently the museum gives ghost tours as, in Mr. Caggiano’s words, “the mansion is quite haunted.” More information can be seen on the YouTube Channel Ghosts on the Coast.

Discovering the AHHS used to show silent films with musical accompaniment in the late 1990’s Mr. Caggiano and the other members decided to bring it back for their events in October in addition to the museum and tours. The AHHS screens at least three classic horror films every year. One of the most popular movies shown, that has sold out shows over the past two years, is the 1922 German horror film Nosferatu. It is regarded as the most famous silent horror film of all time. Mr. Caggiano fondly remembers one showing of the movie at midnight. “We wanted to give people the experience of watching this creepy flick in a haunted mansion at midnight” said Mr. Caggiano. This year there will be two screenings of the film on October 5^th at 7:30 and 10:30 P.M with local musicians playing alongside the movie. Mr. Caggiano advises those reading if they want to come to the screening to reserve their tickets now.

In addition to Nosferatu the AHHS screens “Don’t Go in the House” at the place where it was filmed and 1931’s Dracula, usually shown on Bela Lugosi’s birthday. Other October events include a Halloween party, lectures and tours regarding the paranormal and a musical performance by Damion Alexandrius. All money raised during the events will go to Society and the repairs needed for the museum. For more information on the AHHS, upcoming events and how to get tickets please visit them on their website ahhistory.org or Facebook page.

Photo is courtesy of Greg Caggiano

Happy Birthday to Jack Black!

An actor that can do it all in the entertainment business is hard to find. Very few men have accomplishments quite like Jack Black: acting, singing, comedy, voice over and songwriting. He has not only become a successful singer with his band Tenacious D, but has become one of the most sought after actors for comedic and children’s films. It is Black’s birthday and today we are going to take a look at some of Black’s most memorable roles throughout his career and how his performance helped elevate the film. Photo is courtesy of IMDB no copyright figment is intended.

High Fidelity. While Black had been acting for years many took notice of him after his role as Barry, a sales clerk with hilarious wit and a great musical performance in High Fidelity; some even saying he stole the show away from the main star John Cusack. Black is truly hilarious as a guy passionate about music. If people didn’t know who Black was before High Fidelity they knew him after his iconic performance of Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On.”

Shallow Hal. One of Black’s first leading roles, he plays Hal Larson a man who at first judges women based on appearances until he meets Rosemary, portrayed by Gwyneth Paltrow, a woman he believes is slender but is actually morbidly obese. The film received mixed reviews when it first released into theaters; many saying while the message is sweet the humor falls into the bland category. Black’s performance showed he had the potential being the lead, nominated for a Teen Choice Award for Favorite Male Comedy Actor; the film itself is great for a girl’s night.

School of Rock. If any film showed Black’s true potential as the male lead it is this one. Black is Dewey Finn, a wannabe rock star who takes a job as a substitute teacher, taking a job meant for his friend, for money but then meets extraordinary students gifted with music. Together they work to earn a place in the Battle of the Bands contest, but what started off as a lie turns real for Finn. This is Black’s most nominated role in his career so far, including two Teen Choice Awards, and a Golden Globe. This role not only showcased Black’s musical talent, his comedic personality, but it also showed when needed Black can be a serious actor when it comes to kids. It might even be argued that this is Black’s most iconic role to date in his career.

Shark Tale. This wasn’t Black’s first voice-over role, but it did open another door in Black’s career as a voice over actor. Black voices Lenny, a great white shark who is a vegetarian and helps Will Smith’s Oscar in continuing his lie as a shark slayer. Black’s performance as Lenny was one of the film’s more memorable roles, but his most iconic voice over role is yet to come.

King Kong. Black, in one of his few non-comedic or musical roles, brings out his more sinister side in this remake. As Carl Denham, Black portrays a man who is slowly losing his mind over his debts; wanting to make a movie about a dangerous island regardless of the safety of everyone and then bringing the gigantic Kong to the mainland. Black has said he based his performance on Orson Welles as a man who will do what he can to get to the end. Black also gets the most iconic line in the film of “beauty who killed the beast”. It was interesting for audiences to see Black not as a comedic sidekick or lovable lead but as a villain; nonetheless it was a spectacular job.

Nacho Libre. One of Black’s more memorable comedic roles; good or bad depends on the viewer’s interpretation. Black is Ignacio aka Nacho a luchador wrestler fighting to earn money for the monastery where he works as a cook. However wrestling is forbidden so he must keep his identity a secret. The film as well as Black’s performance received very mixed reviews from audiences and critics; many finding it either funny or offensive. Nonetheless Black received nominations from the Kids and Teen Choice Awards showing he can do films for kids.

The Holiday. If you were to hear about Jack Black in a romantic comedy you may not believe it but it is true as the role was written with Black in mind. He plays Miles, a song composer who helps Kate Winslet’s Iris adjust to life in Los Angeles; falling in love with her along the way. Black brought out his more adorable and charming side to the role, but also added in humor and audiences loved him.

Kung Fu Panda franchise. It is hard to imagine anyone else voicing Po, the lovable panda who was hand-picked to be the Dragon Master in the Kung Fu Panda films. As Po Black goes into his child-like humor and brings to life one of DreamWorks most popular (over course of three films and direct to DVD specials) and well-developed characters.

Tropic Thunder. Black was just one of the many critically praised performances of this funny comedy. Here he is Jeff Portnoy aka Fats in the film being filmed an actor fearing he is only famous because he is funny and has a drug problem. Black has so much adult humor in the film as an addict and has some of the weirdest/funniest lines in the movie; it’s hard not to laugh and shake your head at the same time.

Bernie. Black takes on the role of Bernie Tiede, a real life mortician who befriends an unlikable widow and then after having had enough of her manipulation kills her. Much to the dismay of the lawyer trying to put him away the town is on his side. Black once again received massive praise for his role in this black comedy as the nicest guy in town turned killer, earning his second Golden Globe nomination.

Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle. Many were uncertain about the Jumanji sequel when it was first announced, but any doubts were quickly silenced after audiences saw the film. Black stood out as he portrayed Professor Sheldon “Shelly” Oberon the avatar of Bethany Walker, a somewhat self absorbed teenage girl addicted to her phone. As strange as it sounds, Black’s portrayal as a teenage girl was downright hysterical in an already funny movie. The scene where Bethany has to learn to use how guys go to the bathroom had many clutching their sides laughing, along with his/her obvious crush on Nick Jonas’s avatar character Alex.

With these iconic roles under his belt and many more films on their way Jack Black’s career will continue to flourish and grow in the future. His next role will be as Jonathan Barnavelt in the upcoming adaption of the novel The House with a Clock in Its Walls. Happy Birthday to Jack Black!

Movie Review: The King and I

Rodgers and Hammerstein have written fantastic musicals, I know a big understatement on my part. Many incorporated dramatic history into the story, perhaps none more so than this one. First debuting on Broadway in 1951 and based on Margaret Landon’s 1944 novel Anna and the King of Siam which was a mix of fiction and true story, it would become a film in 1956. The film version of The King and I would become one of the most successful musicals of all time. I saw a recent Broadway production of the story and it along with the film, definitely leaves you with tears in your eyes and your heart feeling a little heavier. Spoilers as always.

Anna Leonowens (Deborah Kerr with Marni Nixon doing the singing) a widow school teacher travels with her son Louis (Rex Thompson) to Bangkok, Siam (now Thailand) to become the teacher of the children of the King of Siam, King Mongkut (Yul Brynner who won an Oscar for his part). The two meet the prime minister and the King’s closest friend Kralahome (Martin Benson) who has been told to escort them to the palace where they are going to live; Anna is upset because her contract stated she and her son would get their own home. King Mongkut says he doesn’t remember promising Anna a home and introduces Anna to his wives (no, that is not a misprint) and 15 of his 67 children (once again no mistake there) that Anna will teach, including his eldest son Prince Chulalongkorn (Patrick Adiarte). Despite being upset that the King violated her contract Anna agrees to teach the children, although she does drop hints during her lessons to annoy the King. Anna becomes close with the children as well as the wives, including the head wife Lady Thiang (Terry Saunders) and the latest wife Tuptim (Rita Moreno with Leona Gordon singing); Tuptim however is not happy with her forced marriage as she is in love with one of the men who brought her Lun Tha (Carlos Rivas with Rueben Fuentes singing) and he with her forcing the pair to sneak around at night. The children soon come to care for Anna and Louis, although they do get into arguments when Anna introduces things they have never seen before like snow. The King and Anna also clash, not just over the contract but their cultures as the two have different outlooks over pretty much everything. Anna almost leaves because of it, but Lady Thiang explains that the King is upset because British papers are calling him a barbarian and threatened to take Siam away from him. Knowing the King is many things, but not what the British clam, Anna agrees to help the King prove that they can be European and the two’s walls slowly start to come down. Unfortunately the King’s stubborn ways may cost him greatly. About as far as I should go without giving away the rest of the movie.

If any film has a big clash of cultures it is this one. The King and Anna’s relationship develops as king/servant in his mind to mutual respect; many say love but I’m not completely certain. Deborah Kerr is just stunning to watch as Anna, the strong willed teacher who has to show not just the children and wives but the King that their world is not as big as they think and they have to change. Yul Brynner, who portrayed the King on multiple Broadway productions before and after the film is memorizing as King Mongkut, a man who is stuck in the past and doesn’t understand why the world isn’t like his country; absolutely deserved his Oscar. The rest of the cast is impeccable; Moreno, Saunders, Rivas and Benson sticking out the most in my opinion as do the children, although I admit by today’s standards some roles are considered to be whitewashing so beware. The film doesn’t use every word or every song from the Broadway show which may have done some harm from the critics but otherwise the film was well received. The soundtrack has some of the show’s most famous songs such as “Getting to Know You”, “Shall We Dance”, “It’s a Puzzlement” and “I Whistle a Happy Tune” among others.

The film won five Oscars: Best Actor for Brynner, music, art direction, costume design and sound recording while it was nominated for four others: Best director, cinematography, actress for Kerr and Best Picture. The film has also been listed on three American Film Institute 100 lists: #11 on Best Musicals, #54 on Best Songs “Shall We Dance” and 100 Passions Films #31 for Anna and the King. While the film might take place during the Civil War some of its issues still hit strong points today and I would definitely say this is a must watch for not just musical fans but of movie fans in general.

Movie Review: San Andreas

Most movies about natural disasters are pretty easy to make fun of; most of the time it is because of horrible special effects, lazy writing, bad performances, or it’s not really a natural disaster but someone manipulating it in some twisted way. That being said this 2015 film is actually not too bad of a disaster film as this does hold little possibilities of this happening (little but possible). Spoilers ahead as always.

Raymond “Ray Gaines (Dwayne Johnson) is a former army pilot now working with L.A Fire Department as a rescue pilot. He plans on traveling up to Seattle with his daughter Blake (Alexandra Daddario) to drop her off at college, and an excuse to see his soon to be ex-wife Emma (Carla Gugino) who he is still in love with. Unfortunately Emma has a new boyfriend in Daniel Riddick (Ioan Grufford) who owns a civil engineering firm. It is obvious that Emma still cares deeply for Ray, but he still blames himself for the death of their other daughter who drowned. At the same time Caltech seismologist Dr. Lawrence Hayes (Paul Giamatti) along with his team including friend Dr. Kim Park (Will Yun Lee) are at Hoover Dam using equipment to predict earthquakes and discover a fault in the dam. Within seconds a massive earthquake happens; destroying the dam and killing Park. Ray is called into work and Daniel offers to take Blake to school, but must stop in San Francisco for a meeting. While there Blake meets brothers Ben (Hugo Johnstone-Burt) and Ollie (Art Parkinson) on vacation from England with Ben applying for a job with Daniel’s company; he also becomes smitten with Blake and vice versa.

Dr. Hayes, grieving the death of his friend, soon makes a horrible discovery: the entire San Andreas fault is shifting; which will cause earthquakes and more natural disasters destroying cities in the entire fault line. Another massive earthquake happens in San Francisco with Emma, Blake, Daniel, Ben and Ollie right in the middle of it. Ray, having called Emma, hears it and flies to where she is; rescuing her as she is the only survivor of the building. Blake is abandoned in a parking lot by Daniel after being trapped in his car, but Ben and Ollie rescue her. Blake, sticking with the brothers, calls her parents and the three come up with a plan to reunite, but it may be impossible. Dr Hayes, along with his team and news reporter Serena Johnson (Archie Panjabi) warn the public a much more powerful earthquake is coming, and sadly it will only get worse. About at far as I can go without giving away the rest of the movie.

As I said earlier disaster films are usually easy to poke fun at, but this film actually isn’t bad (it’s not great either but it could have been worse.) Dwayne Johnson is a good actor; while I have seen him in much better films I thought he did a pretty decent job in the film as a man just wanting his family back. Carla Gugino was great with her performance, knowing what to do when a disaster comes and helping Ray when she can. She and Johnson have done two films together so they have excellent chemistry together; while it wasn’t their first time as love interests I believe it was the first time the two shared a lip lock. Daddario could have easily played the part of the daughter who freaks out alone, but instead she came off as smart, knows what to do and when it goes to hell is quick to readjust. Johnstone-Burt and Parkinson’s characters were awesome, Parkinson providing just a little comic relief in a disaster film, and finally Giamatti was fantastic. The special effects were very realistic as the audience watched buildings crumble, a tsunami and the destruction of the Golden Gate Bridge knowing while we can’t see every death we are certain the number is in the high thousands. Admittedly the plot outside the disasters does feel a little all over the place and the characters don’t develop, but I think having all of the action around it kinda shadows it so it isn’t really noticed until everything is calm. I wouldn’t call San Andreas a must watch, but if you like disaster movies, Dwayne Johnson or action this just might be a great film for you to watch.

Movie Review: Iron Man 3

When it comes to the Marvel trilogy series (Iron Man, Captain America and Thor so far) there is always one that fans put right in the middle. In the case of Iron Man the third edition, released in 2013, I was somewhat disappointed. Don’t get me wrong the movie has its moments, but a majority of it had me going “What were they thinking?” As always spoilers will be ahead. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.

After the first Avengers film Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) has been having panic attacks, thinking about the invasion, battle and his brief space experience. Not getting any sleep Tony begins building dozens of Iron Man suits; putting a strain on his relationship with Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow). Meanwhile a mysterious string of bombings are taking place all over the world, and someone calling himself The Mandarin (Ben Kingsley) is taking the credit for it; however intelligence agencies are confused as to how he and his group are making their bombs as there is absolutely no forensic evidence. After his friend Happy Hogan (Jon Favreau) is attacked in the latest bombing Tony issues a threat to the Mandarin despite pleas from Pepper and a visit from scientist (and ex-girlfriend) Maya Hansen (Rebecca Hall). The Mandarin sends gun helicopters to Tony’s house and destroys it; Hansen and Potts manage to get away as does Tony in another suit, but they are separated in the attack. J.A.R.V.I.S (Paul Bettany) directs the suit Tony is wearing to a rural part of Tennessee. Tony, and a 10 year old boy named Harley (Ty Simpkins), discovers that the bombings are not actual bombs but are soldiers part of an experiment gone horribly wrong. The experiment is called Extremis which is supposed to heal crippling injuries but instead turns the person into an unstable walking time bomb. Tony also discovers, along with Harley and best friend Rhodey (Don Cheadle), that the Mandarin is not who he appears to be (HUGE disappointment here but more on that later), and the person behind it is Aldrich Killian (Guy Pierce); a man from Tony’s past, who wants him to fix Extremis; and gives Tony the proper motivation to stop him. I probably shouldn’t say anymore without giving away the rest of the film.

I said earlier the film disappointed me, and I’m going to give you the reason why. Those familiar with the Iron Man comic books know that the Mandarin is probably Tony’s biggest and most powerful villain ever. I was expecting a big fight between the two based on the trailers, but what happened had me, as well as probably everyone else, annoyed was what they did to the Mandarin. Ben Kingsley’s character was an actor hired to pretend to be the Mandarin by Killian and he had no idea what those films were doing to people. I cannot even begin to tell you how many times my eyes rolled during the film when it was revealed; this was definitely a plot twist no one liked.

However other than the bad plot twist Iron Man 3 still had great moments. Downy Jr. was as always fantastic as Tony, Paltrow in my opinion was at her best (as far as these films go) as Pepper particularly at the end of the film, Cheadle was great as Rhodey and Favreau did well as Happy. Despite the bad plot twist Kingsley was good as the Mandarin films (after not so much), Hall was interesting to watch as Hansen, Simpkins wasn’t bad as Harley (although I admit not seeing him in anything after kinda rendered him a little obsolete) and Guy Pierce was a pretty decent bad guy as Killian (not the worst villain in the MCU but far from the best.) I loved the action in the movie, definitely the last 30-40 minutes with the plane and the big collection of the Iron Man suits; definitely worth the watch. The writing could have been better in a few places (you know where so I’m not gonna rant). Overall the third Iron Man film was a somewhat decent conclusion to the Iron Man movies. I won’t say no if someone were to ask me “Should I watch Iron Man 3?”, but I will say prepare for action and just a smidgen of disappointment.

Movie Review: Sweet Home Alabama

For those maybe not as familiar with movies no this is not about the famous Lynyrd Skynyrd song. Sweet Home Alabama, released in 2002, has often been listed among the best romantic comedies of the 2000’s and officially cemented Reese Witherspoon as one of the queens of the genre. As always spoilers will be ahead. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.

Melanie Carmichael (Witherspoon with Dakota Fanning as the child version) is a fashion designer living in New York City and dating Andrew Hennings (Patrick Dempsey) the son of the New York City mayor Kate Hennings (Candice Bergen). After becoming engaged (in one of the most epic proposals in film) to Andrew Melanie decides to head back home to Alabama to tell her parents Pearl and Earl (Mary Kay Place and Fred Ward), but she is hiding a few big secrets. In order to get away from her poor, and youth trouble, Southern roots Melanie changed her last name from Smoots to Carmichael, her parents are not as classy as she claimed (her father does Civil War re-enactments) and is still married to her childhood sweetheart Jake Perry (Josh Lucas with Thomas Curtis as the child version). Despite Melanie sending divorce papers numerous times Jake refuses to sign them. Melanie uses everything in her power as his wife to get him to sign, such as emptying their joint account to sprucing up his home. However the longer she is at home the more Melanie realizes she shouldn’t be ashamed of who she was/is, and how much in love she still is with Jake. Unfortunately for Melanie Kate, doubting how good she is for Andrew (she is just a tad controlling), sends her assistant Barry (Kevin Sussman) to Alabama to investigate her son’s fiancé. About as far as I should go without giving away the rest of the movie.

Witherspoon as always shines in whatever movie she is in, and this is no exception. Whether she is coming off as New York businesswoman one minute then Southern troublemaker the next Witherspoon’s acting ability was top notch. Lucas was fantastic as Jake, the only guy who sees Melanie for who she truly is, and will do anything to show her that. Dempsey is good as Andrew, standing up to his mother and accepts Melanie for who she is (or so he thinks she is). The rest of the cast is enjoyable and has some very funny moments, although I admit the baby in the bar scene does have me questioning a few things. The films culture clash between New York and Alabama was so perfectly written, although it may have been a little stereotyping. I am not from the South nor have I traveled there so I have yet to experience if it is as different as this film perceives it; I’d like to judge it for myself by actually going one day and not how they are portrayed in film and television. Sweet Home Alabama is still a very cute romantic comedy and while I won’t say it is a must watch it is absolutely a girls night or date night film.

Movie Review: Disney’s Cinderella (2015 film)

Disney has been dishing out live action remakes of their most popular animated films; each so far just as if not more successful than the animated version. I have enjoyed the new adaptions, which will be discussed separately at a later date, but I’d be lying if I said when I heard about “remakes” I wasn’t concerned they would change the story. However when it came to the 2015 adaption of Cinderella those thoughts were quickly erased as Kenneth Branagh directed what I’m sure will be called another Disney classic just like it’s animated version. While I’m sure everyone knows the story, here is a spoiler alert because it is unavoidable. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.

Ella (Lily James with Eloise Webb as a younger version) has had a very good childhood with her lovely mother (Hayley Atwell) and father (Ben Chaplin) until her mother suddenly passes away; Ella promising to honor her mother’s dying wish “have courage and be kind”. Years later Ella’s father remarries the widow of an old friend, Lady Tremaine (Cate Blanchett) who brings along her dimwitted and mean daughters Anastasia (Holliday Granger) and Drisella (Sophie McShera). Ella’s father soon leaves for another business trip and Lady Tremaine’s cruel and jealousy to Ella begins; forcing Ella to move to the attic. Ella’s father dies on the trip and Lady Tremaine, to “save money” dismisses the staff; forcing Ella to do all the work while her step-family torments her with their cruel nicknames including “Cinderella.”

Ella almost runs away from home because of it, but runs into a young man named Kit (Richard Madden) part of the royal hunting party while saving a stag. The two become quickly smitten with each other and part. Unbeknownst to Ella Kit is the crown prince set to take up the throne soon as the King (Derek Jacobi) is dying. Both the king and the Grand Duke (Stellan Skarsgård) want Kit to throw a ball and marry a princess to help the kingdom (in the Grand Duke’s opinion the Princess Chelena of a country with rich resources). Kit does agree to the ball, along with his friend only known as The Captain (Nonso Anozie), but only if every eligible young lady is invited as well; a not exactly subtle way to try and see Ella again. News of the ball soon spreads and Ella step-family nearly work her to the bone preparing them while her step mother (after insulting and tearing her gown) forbid her from going. Shortly after they leave Ella’s fairy godmother (Helena Bonham Carter) arrives and (in hilarious fashion) uses magic to send Ella to the ball with a pumpkin carriage, mice turned horses, goose coachman, lizard footmen, an absolutely gorgeous ballgown and glass slippers. However Fairy godmother tells Ella the magic will end at midnight so she must leave before then. Ella reunites with Kit, now knowing he’s the prince, and the two spend the evening together falling in love. Ella leaves in a hurry at midnight, dropping one of her slippers along the way, but manages to get home before her step-family and hides the other slipper.

However Lady Tremaine shortly figures out it was Ella at the ball finding the slipper and, after Ella refuses to give in to her demands, locks her in the attic and destroys the shoe. Using the slipper and knowledge of the Grand Duke’s deception Lady Tremaine blackmails the Grand Duke so they both get what they want. Kit agrees to marry the Princess Chelena, but only if the Grand Duke cannot find the mystery girl.

I know I gave away basically everything but the ending; it’s Cinderella it’s not hard to figure it out, but that is because I wanted to show just how different this film is compared to other versions of the classic fairy tale. The animated Disney film was one of my favorites growing up, a friend of mine states it is her favorite movie of all time, but I thought this live action adaption was even better. Lily James was perfect as Cinderella; not just gorgeous but showcases exactly what Cinderella strives to be: kind hearted. While there is nothing wrong with the animated Cinderella I thought James’s version had a bit more spunk and was much more modern (I think that was the goal.) Richard Madden was not only very handsome to look at, but did a fabulous job as Kit (in this version we actually get a name). The prince in the animated film kinda just felt like he was there as the romantic partner (that changed over one of the two direct to DVD animated sequels), but Madden showed Kit as someone struggling with his position in power as well as deciding what is best for the kingdom and his heart. In a way Kit combined the animated film as well as the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical. Madden and James’s chemistry was incredible and I hope they continue in more projects; I read they were on stage in Westminster two years ago as another pair of famous lovers Romeo and Juliet.

Of course Cinderella and the prince are not the only memorable characters. Cate Blanchett is one of the best actresses today and she manages to steal the show no matter hat movie she’s in. This is once again the case regarding her performance as the cruel Lady Tremaine. Truth be told I often forget how evil the step-mother is compared to other Disney villains, but whenever I watch Disney’s versions I remember almost within a minute of meeting her. Blanchett’s really captured Lady Tremaine’s essence as she calmly torments Cinderella and later nearly loosing it when Ella defies her. Nonzo Anozie is fantastic to watch as the Captain, usually the voice of reason or very funny, Skarsgård is interesting as the Grand Duke (definitely not like the animated film), Granger and McShera are hilarious as the stepsisters and finally while for her short period of time on screen Bonham Carter is very enjoyable as the Fairy Godmother.

The film takes elements from the animated film, the fairy tale as well as bits of other versions, but at the same time I thought the film sticks out on its own; it is definitely one of my favorite versions of Cinderella in recent memory. Everything from the writing, cast, Oscar nominated costumes and music for me was spot on perfection. Time will tell if this stands among the other live action remakes Disney has or are currently planning, but for now the live action Disney Cinderella movie is worth the watch.