Film Judge (2024)

02/10/2019

is a mostly enjoyable watch, but it's a film that fails to excel in any particular area or showcase that anything is truly at stake. All of the elements range from decent to good, with the best being the performances from Jennifer Lopez and Constance Wu (I think that, given the characters choice of profession, it's important to emphasize that I'm talking about their ACTING performances). Anyways, the film is entertaining enough and also happens be a story based on real events. But was it a story worth telling for any reason other than entertainment? Probably not. And that's not always a bad thing. It simply prevents it from being a worthwhile thing. Also, please note that the film is very adult in nature -- Maybe not excessively so, given the subject matter; but adult nonetheless.

30/09/2019

is a space story that actually focusses more on the smaller scale character elements than the big, universe adventure ones (despite what the trailer advertises). And for that reason, I really enjoyed it. There are certainly some scientific inaccuracies and improbabilities in a couple areas. But if you're willing to suspend disbelief in favor of a thoughtful story, it's only becomes an issue when you make it one. The film is an introspective look at our relationship with the universe, our loved ones, ourselves and what drives us. It critiques isolation and obsession in favor of love and companionship, showing that it is more important to have hope in our own spheres of life than it is to search for answers elsewhere. It's also wonderfully metaphorical without being preachy, mirroring the lead character's relation with his father with the lengthy journey across time and space. Brad Pitt, again, is brilliant and gives a masterfully subtle performance here; and the cinematography and score are also exceptional. I really hope more people see this film and and go into it with an open mind. But unfortunately, due to the highly accessible and informationally convenient world we live in, the vast majority of audiences will likely struggle to maintain engagement with this film. There's a Fast and Furious style of viewership nowadays that I like to call "cinematic ADHD" (however pretentious that may sound).

22/09/2019

is a incredibly long title for a film. And I know I didn't say I was going to review this, but it's still in theaters and I'm going to do it anyways. The film itself is quite good -- and also unexpectedly tame given that it's directed by Quentin Tarantino. While it may not be his best film (that title goes to Inglorious Basterds), it's a very worthwhile outing and a welcome shift in tone for Tarantino. Brad Pitt's character, Cliff Booth, is the standout here. He is just so fun to watch. For flaws, there are a couple sequences in the film that outstay their welcome, as well as a moment or two of clunky exchanges; both of which make the film feel longer than it is. But that's about it. I don't think I've laughed as hard as I did during the last five minutes of this film, than I have in any film in a long time. Leonardo DeCaprio is also very solid in this and I hope his performance doesn't get too overshadowed in favor of Brad Pitt. The pair of them both deserve some recognition from Oscar.

15/09/2019

was a very nice change of pace. Unlike most of the films this summer, The Peanut Butter Falcon works extremely well because it keeps things small and simple, focusing on character dynamics and theme instead of spectacle. Actors Shia LaBeouf, Zack Gottsagen, and Dakota Johnson are all excellent in this film and play off each other's drastically different personalities very well. In my opinion, the ending maybe could have packed a bigger punch. However, it's still one of those films that has you smiling and laughing throughout. I also was pleased to see that the filmmakers chose to shine a positive and uplifting light on the subject of Down syndrome and grief, instead of making it strictly about a person's misfortune. And there's something just extremely likeable and genuine about Shia LaBeouf.

13/09/2019

"Avengers: Endgame" was the comic book fan event of the century. It provided a bombastic, emotional, and crowd-pleasing conclusion to this era of the MCU and was film that was both exactly what people wanted and what they didn't expect. However, given it has over three hours of runtime to make mistakes, it also feels a bit sloppy (comedy, pacing, or otherwise). 8.5/10

"John Wick: Chapter 3" was absolute insanity in best way possible. This film knows exactly what it is: a non-stop action spectacle. Never have I seen and action film with this level of creativity in how it handles it's stunts and fight choreography -- which is probably the best since "The Raid" films. The only critique here is that one or two of the glorious fight scenes went on a tad long. But come on, you're getting your money's worth. 9/10

"Toy Story 4" was enjoyably enough, but in the end, fails to deliver on the emotional level that the previous three films did. Still, it does have a lot of fun and has some of the best animation ever put on screen. It just feels like this is a sequel that wasn't entirely necessary to begin with. 7/10

"Dark Phoenix" was probably the definition of an average film. It's not as good as I would have liked (being that it's my wife's favorite character), but it's also not nearly as bad as critics made it out to be. It holds tension well, but insists upon having a dreary tone throughout, leaving the whole thing feeling very flat. 5.5/10

"Spider-Man: Far From Home" is a film that really excels in the smaller-scale moments, while also having exciting, blockbuster sequences. Watching Peter trying (and not trying) to be Spider-Man on a class trip with his friends was a treat to watch and makes for a refreshing and down-to-earth backdrop in an otherwise out-of-this-world universe. Some nitpicks: some of the comedy is awful and ruins dramatic moments (in true Marvel fashion) and the villain's scheme is a bit clunky. Also, give Spider-Man back. 8/10

"The Lion King" Confession: I didn't watch this. I'm boycotting live-action Disney films because they're dumb and shouldn't exist. Also, while we're here... Am I the only one who didn't like "The Jungle Book"?

10/09/2019

is back! For about 5 months I was forced to take a break from all screens due to a very annoying head injury (and my wife insisting that I take care of myself). But I'm finally healthy (enough) and ready to voice the film opinions that the world needs, but doesn't deserve.

I missed some pretty big films during my extended hiatus, including the highest-grossing film of all time "Avengers: Endgame" (you know, that one with the supernaturally fit individuals flying around fighting that big purple dude). And while that film was satisfying and all, I still liked "John Wick: Chapter 3" better.

If you, the people, would like to see a compilation review of those films (and others I've missed), please comment below and I will probably just do it anyway. I will also be reviewing "The Peanut Butter Falcon" very soon (that's not a fake title), followed by "Ad Astra" and "Joker".

24/03/2019

! Here's a surprise: "Shazam!" is good! Lead by Zachary Levi and friends, this latest superhero entry by DC is lighthearted, funny, and more importantly, very self-aware. Sure, the implementation of a familiar villain and superhero origin story structure brings the film's rating down a tad. But if this movie is any indication of where the DC cinematic universe is heading, we're finally going to see a competently-formed universe of superhero films apart from Marvel. I'm genuinely excited to see what comes next.

23/03/2019

Suspenseful, layered, humorous, and extremely well-crafted. This sequel (while not directly connected to its predecessor) is just as good, if not more bold and daring, than "Get Out". If I had to address a flaw, it would be that the the last 20 minutes could come across as a bit exposition-heavy. But overall, this film is fantastic and Director Jordan Peele has proven that he just might be a creative genius. The cinematography is haunting, atmospheric, and just straight up gorgeous. The story is layered, engaging, and thrilling from start to finish. And the sound design and musical score are equally exceptional. Also, if Lupita Nyong'o doesn't get an oscar nomination (if not a win) for her performance, I will be upset.

07/03/2019

A competent and enjoyable Marvel film by all means, but also a little dull around the edges. Some elements of the film work really well, particularly the exploration of Captain Marvel's mysterious past, her playful relationship with Nick Fury, and the visual effects (also, a cat named "Goose"). However, this addition to the MCU fails to join the better films of the franchise due to a meandering storyline, uninteresting stakes, spotty dialogue, and a surprisingly average performance from Brie Larson as the title character.

28/02/2019

Lighthearted. Uplifting. Funny. This film follows the true story of diva wrestler "Paige" and her wrestling-crazed family. It tracks her journey to making it big on the WWE stage, all the while exploring what it means to find one's place in the world. While a lack of technical prowess, visual creativity, and originality keeps this "good" film from being a "great" film. It still makes for a very enjoyable experience at the theater thanks to the playfulness of the script, it's appropriate balance of humor and drama, and the charming character interactions within Paige's circle of family and acquaintances.

22/02/2019

A strong conclusion to what is, overall, a fairly solid trilogy of films. Where this film suffers is in its familiar villain and obstacles. But the beautiful visuals, the fun adventure, humor, and particularly poignant ending makes this a worthy addition to the franchise. Fans should be more than happy with it and kids will have a great time...
..The children at my theater certainly wouldn't shut up.

13/02/2019

"Skip the movie. Come for the end credits." At least the movie itself realizes that it isn't very good, as per a line from the end credits song. While there are few genuine laughs, about 80 percent of the humor either doesn't land or is reused throughout. As a kids movie though, it does contain a worthwhile message of reaching an understanding and balance in a brother/sister relationship. So the kids might have fun with this one.

Seriously though... the end credits are pretty awesome.

13/02/2019

An exciting visual experience from start to finish. Yes, it comes with some cheesy moments, but that is to be expected a bit with manga. This is a much better film than some critics are making it out to be. There's great world-building and astounding visual effects/motion capture work. Alita as a character also makes for an intoxicating mix of innocent and badass. I'm not saying it's a perfect film, as there's room for improvement in some areas. Bottom line, I was thoroughly entertained throughout most of "Alita: Battle Angel" an am looking forward to the sequel.

10/02/2019

is bad. But instead of doing a normal (albeit, well articulated and concise) review, I've decided to share my long-winded theory as to why Polar might've turned out so bad. It begins and ends like this...

A higher-up, Netflix executive-type guy hires a director-type guy to make a movie based on his favorite comic book story "Polar". But unbeknownst to executive guy in a time long ago, he has deeply wronged director guy. Maybe executive guy killed director guy's dog or something. Nobody knows... except director guy.

Director guy accepts the task to make the movie, thus beginning down a dark of path of vengeance against executive guy. His goal: to destroy executive guy's career and make the the most unnecessarily gratuitous and overtly misogynist pile of garbage the world will (inevitably) never see.

So one long and dark night passes before director guy shows up at executive guy's Netflix corner office... a copy of the finished film in his hand. Unphased by the breakneck speeds of production, executive guy accepts the VHS tape with pure elation and presses play. Director guy watches on with a grin so sharp it could trim a single blade of grass... But it doesn't.

Suddenly, director guy hears something odd originating from executive guy's delicate, full-bodied mouth. It's not whimpering, nor screams of crazed agony. Instead, he hears laughter... proclamations of joy... All of it, spurting from executive guy's mouth like a ray of sunshine.

To director guy's horror, he now sees that he has captured executive guy's monstrous vision, with abhorrent perfection. He sees that executive guy has won... yet again.

03/02/2019

Right away, this film won't be for everyone. People will have a difficult time getting through it, as this is a film that uses the mundanity of real life as it's anchor. Yes, the story is based on the director's memory of his own childhood. Connoisseurs will most certainly drool over the film's technical savviness (rightfully so). From a filming standpoint, this film has probably the most seamless cinematography since "Birdman" in 2014. And the utilization and blocking of hundreds of background actors is both impressive and immersive, making it one of the most realistic-feeling films I've ever seen. However, I struggled at times to fully engage with this story. There is a little too much of "nothing", when there should have been a little more "something." The theme is empowerment in the midst of abandonment and absence, so it makes sense why the film withholds rather than gives. However, I'm a little exhausted of filmmakers who use it as an excuse to make a boring film. The last 20 minutes sort of wraps things up in an impactful and heartfelt way. It just takes too long to get there. I felt the film's slow pace and somewhat long runtime, when I would've loved to have been fully engrossed in the film's honest world and characters.

02/02/2019

The cinematography. The dialogue. All of it is exceptional and smart. Consists of six separate short stories related only by the theme of death (my personal favorite being "All Gold Canyon"). The Coen Brothers have created something different and special here. Unfortunately, it might fly under the radar because it's a Netflix original, but it's definitely worth checking out.

02/02/2019

I'm sorry, but watching this was a bit like reading a textbook. Too many historical events were covered and, in doing so, the film doesn't allow for anything of substance to take shape. It jumps from one event to another, when could've tracked the conflict and character growth within a select few.

02/02/2019

Hilarious. Touching. Inspiring. Everything you want in a trip to the movies. I'm tempted to rate it higher, but the ending maybe could've been a bit stronger. Although, it is based on a true story and aptly reflects the beginning of a long friendship. Also, Mahershala and Viggo are incredible.

02/02/2019

At times, this film can be beautiful and moving. But unfortunately, it also meanders too often to retain your interest and isn't as focused as it could have been. Still, Barry Jenkin's visuals are gorgeous to look at and the score is excellent.

02/02/2019

An incredible, edge-of-your-seat look into the life of Alex Honnold, following his journey to climb El Capitan... without ropes. This documentary is very well crafted and suprisingly funny. Catch it now in select theaters before it's too late!

02/02/2019

Lighthearted fun for the whole family, with a few laughs thrown in as well. It's familiar and cliche in certain moments, but it's a step in the right direction for the Transformers franchise. Plus, John Cena isn't half bad.

02/02/2019

Wonderfully odd, yet engaging. It's a humorous and thrilling take on historical events and life of Queen Anne, with a unique visual flair and fantastic performances all around.

02/02/2019

"The Big Short" director applies the same style to the character of Dick Cheney, but it doesn't quite gel this time around. However, Bale, Adams, and Rockwell all give great performances and the film is still insightful and occasionally funny. (Gotta hand it to the mid-credits scene)

02/02/2019

A hilarious, refreshing take on the superhero genre. Stellar soundtrack, outstanding animation work -- which happens to be spearheaded by Vancouver animation artists ( ). Bring on the sequel!

02/02/2019

Stunning visual effects and suprisingly innovative fight choreography. However, you may need to turn your brain off to reap enjoyment from this movie. I think it might be intentionally cheesy, but it doesn't fully commit to that idea.

Actual quote... "Are you trying to invoke the battle of kings?"

02/02/2019

Aside from the great costumes/production design and sufficient performances from the ensemble cast, this one felt pretty lackluster. Not sure if die-hard fans of Harry Potter would be thrilled.

02/02/2019

Raw. Emotional. Outstanding performances from Cooper, Gaga (sounds weird saying that) and supporting cast. Great music. A couple of minor moments feel rushed or out of place, but it doesn't take away from the overall impact of the film.

02/02/2019

Pretty fun overall. Although it's played quite safe. Rami Malek gives a great performance as Freddie Mercury, as is expected.

02/02/2019

Visually stunning. Killer soundtrack. Has probably one of the year's best film moments. Yet, it can run a little slow and I wouldn't be surprised if people have difficulty relating to Niel Armstrong's stoicism.

Film Judge

02/10/2019

30/09/2019

22/09/2019

15/09/2019

13/09/2019

10/09/2019

24/03/2019

23/03/2019

07/03/2019

28/02/2019

22/02/2019

13/02/2019

13/02/2019

10/02/2019

03/02/2019

02/02/2019

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