Sing 2

 

Five years ago, writer-director Garth Jennings had success with the animated film Sing. A film while I admittedly found enjoyable (especially the music) the overall story is... eh, just okay. Jennings has released the sequel the aptly named Sing 2 and after much debate on whether it warranted a trip to my local theater to watch, exactly 5 years and 1 day after the first go round I ventured out to do just that. The music after all should be worth the effort and hopefully the story would at least be okay. I was wrong on both accounts.

Sing 2 is the rare sequel that surpasses the original.  Hands down.

From the opening Minion filled Illumination intro, the opening “act” through the credits (no worries, there’s no added credit sequence so you can jet if you don’t want to enjoy the music) Sing 2 hits all the right notes and this time brings all the feels along with it. An hour and fifty minutes of pure delight. 

This thoroughly enjoyable and highly entertaining romp reunites the old crew (save for Seth MacFarlane’s Mike) and adds newcomers including Halsey and Bono (yes Bono), just to name a few, as they hit Redshore City (a Las Vegas-esque entertainment Mecca) in an effort to take their show to the next level.

I had a helluva difficult time staying seated throughout this one.  The music is killer, so chair dancing is unavoidable.  Unfortunately for anyone near me so is the unavoidable singing.  With the likes of U of A Alum Harvey Mason Jr and Pharrell Williams in the musical mix it’s a given. 

As if that isn’t enough, the story. While nothing original in and of itself (the parallels to Sing are numerous) the story is deeper, more emotional, and engaging than the original and kept me riveted.  I laughed, I cheered, I got angry, teary, and wanted to jump up and scream triumphantly on more than one occasion.  The characters all benefit, and each gets to shine.   

Speaking of the characters, three cheer for the original voice actors naturally.  Bobby Cannavale's Mr. Crystal slays.  Halsey as Porsha Crystal nails the spoiled little rich brat role. Bono as Clay Calloway is an unexpected, happy surprise.  But the scene stealer and my favorite have to be Garth Jennings himself as Miss Crawly.  She’s one lizard that brings me joy.

Joy. Joyous. Delightful. Funny. Charming. Funny. Emotional. Inspirational. Triumphant. All words, thoughts, reactions I have when I think about Sing 2. And I have thought about it often since seeing the film and it brings a smile to my face, gives me a chuckle, and is a perfect end to my 2021 movie going season.  

I loved this movie!  Check it out at the theater if you can.  I’ll definitely be adding this one to my film collection.

I’m giving Sing 2 a 10.

The King's Man

 

The King’s Man

The original 2014 film The Kingman: The Secret Service was one of those films that snuck up on me with how much I enjoyed it.  So much so I was excited beyond belief to see its sequel The Golden Circle three years later, which was a bitter disappointment for sure.  Another four years has passed and the third film in the franchise has now hit the big screen and with it the return of hope for a good film. 

The King’s Man is a prequel taking us back to the founding of this secret intelligence society in the run up and during the course of World War I. As such it’s more a spy thriller/war film than anything else as it lays the groundwork for the basis of the first two movies. With a lot of “positioning” of elements like chess pieces, TKM  focuses more on philosophical ideals and takes itself much more seriously.  Heavy on the political dialogue, the pacing does get slow and the story does drag in places, but not to the point I got bored or became completely disengaged. The violence, particularly the war scenes are brutal and hard to watch.   Both necessary evils to the overall movie. 

Having a more serious tone brings fewer over-the-top action sequences but when they hit, they hit hard and stick their landings. The dark humor is there as well but again is held in check. The musical score is sweeping as are the locations. The acting is wonderful, Ralph Fiennes and Charles Dance shine bright as expected.  Gemma Arterton, Djimon Hounsou, and Harris Dickinson more than hold their own.  Then there’s Rhys Ifans as Rasputin.  A pure, mind blowing, crazy and unsettling at its best.  A weird viewing experience, but still largely satisfying.  

Once again, we’re given a film where the villain(s) are generic and their motives are meh and they feel like a means to an end for setting up the next film, they remain serviceable to the story. Not the most interesting or engaging, but they work for the most part. 

While I won’t say The King’s Man is as good as the original, I’m thrilled to report it’s far superior to the sequel in every aspect. Thank goodness! It’s a strange blend of twistory, farce, espionage, politics, and ideology that makes for an oddly unsettling yet entertaining viewing experience. 

I’m going to give this one a 7.  

BTW don’t miss the mid credit sequence.

Spider-Man: No Way Home

 

After what felt like an eternity of hype, speculation, and anticipation Spider-Man: No Way Home has finally hit the big screen.  Billed as the End Game of the Tom Holland led Spider-Man "home" trilogy SNWH marks the first MCU trilogy directed by the same director, Jon Watts, clocks in at 2 hours and 28 minutes and ushers in the multiverse in spectacular fashion. Quite a lot to live up to without a doubt and for my money, largely delivers.

The fan service aspect pays off big time for Spidey fans, but brings with it some drawbacks. I laughed, I cheered and was thrilled by it, but at the same time was left feeling underwhelmed by the emotional component and under-development of the characters and storyline. I'm an admitted big time crier, however, even at its saddest I never went  beyond thinking, "very sad...anyway".  There's a shallowness in the  characters making connection a hit and miss proposition.

Speaking of which the pacing for the first 30 to 40 minutes is rough. A herky-jerkiness that kept bringing me in and out of the story with its tone and jumping from one idea to another. I hate to admit, a few times it got to the point of making the film border on boring.  

Maybe it's just a "me" thing...I dunno. Kinda like Dr. Strange. Was it just me or is there something a little "off" about him in this film?

Anyway, moving on.

Even with these "issues" Spider-Man: No Way Home still delivers. Terrific music score. Fantastic, heart racing action. Loads of humor. First-rate performances. Thrilling special effects and cinematography.  Eye candy at some of its finest.  Nostalgia, fun, and surprises definitely make for an entertaining movie going experience.  

While SNWH fell short of End Game satisfaction for me, it's still a solid and enjoyable film with some truly shinning moments. Well worth venturing to the movie theater to enjoy a group watch party.  And yes, once again a reminder to stay ALL the way through the credits.  

I'm giving Spider-Man: No Way Home a 7/8.

Encanto

Movie Review: Encanto

First and foremost to those about to celebrate Thanksgiving, I wish you and yours a happy

and safe holiday. And I thank you for taking time to read my review.  I'll keep this one short 

and sweet so you can get back to your holiday.

Run, don't walk to your nearest theater to see Encanto on the big screen. Starting off you’re

treated to the wonderful short Far From the Tree that sets the perfect tone for the main 

feature so don't be late to your seat.

Speaking of the feature film, Disney has once again struck animation gold with this story about

the extraordinary Madrigal family who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia. The

animation is incredible (not surprising), the textures and colors leap off the screen, and to do

Lin-Manuel Miranda's original soundtrack the justice it so richly deserves, nothing will beat the

theater sound system.  Just be warned, if you're anything like me, you'll have a hard time

remaining seated.  Surface Pressure alone had me desperate to shake what my mama gave

me, bad knees be damned.

Encanto's story is engaging and gratifying with an exciting and emotional journey that keeps

you hooked the entire hour thirty-nine minutes .  Maybe a little too much.  Thankfully there

were no kids around me to hear my less tan G rated comments at moments.   Yes, I was

definitely into this movie. The characters are well developed and as fun and individualized

as their special gifts.   Plenty of laughs, thrills, action, and surprises.  For younger kids that

are a bit sensitive some of the action may be a bit intense.

I loved this film! As soon as it was over I wanted to watch it again.  I’ll certainly be adding

Encanto to my personal film library as soon as it’s available.  In the interim, I may have to

head back to the theater to see it to tide me over. Encanto delivers for the entire family and

needs to be seen at least once in all its glory on a movie screen.  

It’s a solid 10 from me.

 

Ghostbusters Afterlife

 

There's a lot to be said for nostalgia and "the good old days" particularly when it comes to

our entertainment.  It brings up memories and stirs feelings that make you all warm and gushy. 

One of those for me is the original Ghostbusters.  37 years later and it's still a favorite that I

find myself watching at least once a year.  After the last go round with the franchise (shudder)

I was more than prepared to write off any further attempts to continue these films.  Then

writer/director Jason Reitman (son of original director Ivan) decided to throw his hat into the

ring.  If anyone could deliver on the promise of resurrecting  the franchise, who better than

the kid that grew up around the original films?

The promise has been kept and exceeded in Ghostbusters Afterlife.  The hook of original 

Ghostbuster Egon Spengler's (the late Harold Ramis) grandkids picking up and running

with the torch feels organic and lends itself to the many homages to the first films while

keeping the story fresh and engaging. Reitman has created a tribute/legacy film to be

proud of.

Casting is wonderful.  Something that can be a bit dodgy when it comes to kids.  But,

Finn Wolfhard and Mckenna Grace have acting chops to spare. Relative newcomer

Logan Kim as Podcast is adorable and more than holds his own.  Paul Rudd delivers the

charm and funny, naturally. Carrie Coon (Proxima Midnight anyone?) as the bitter, hurt, and

angry abandoned child is the perfect hot mess of a mom. And with one notable and not

surprising exception the special appearances are exciting and bring the warm fuzzies.  

Ghostbusters Afterlife is a 2 hour 4 minute entertaining trip down memory lane, filled with

excitement, thrills, laughs, and heart.  I confess I enjoyed the hell out of this one.  

The special effects, cinematography, and direction are solid.  The soundtrack is on point

and the finale? Damn! It delivers, and delivers hard. Suspense, emotion, drama,

laughs...a fitting and wonderful end to this film and worthy of being the exclamation

point on the first two films.

This is how a throwback film should be made. Plenty to offer long time fans without

alienating new ones and delighting  both. Not an easy thing to pull off.  If you can, I say

check this one out at the theater.  And be sure to stay all the way through the credits,

you won't want to miss the two bonus scenes. 

I'm giving Ghostbusters Afterlife a 9.5.

No Time to Die

Almost 18 months past the original release date Daniel Craig returns to the big screen in his fifth and final outing as the storied Bond, James Bond in No Time to Die.  Side note, if you haven’t watched the first four films or need a refresher I highly recommend doing so prior to viewing.  At the very least, check out/rewatch Spectre. 

Over the course of his run as the titular character Craig has seemingly had a love/hate relationship with the films, but has nonetheless gone all in each time.  Being the last go round, “Go big or go home” is the battle cry.  And go big they did. 

WOW. Just wow!

No Time to Die wraps up the through line of the Craig lead Bond era in a truly satisfactory manner.  Thrilling action, twists, turns, and surprises.  Solid story, beautiful/stylish cinematography, exotic locales, all the 007 trappings you expect and want.

Speaking of trappings, favorite actors make their return and continue to do justice to their characters.  Thank you Naomie Harris/Moneypenny, Ralph Fiennes/M, Ben Whishaw/Q, Rory Kinnear/Tanner, and Jeffrey Wright/Felix.  Your service has not gone unnoticed or unappreciated.  As for the newbies Lashana Lynch/Nomi and Ana de Armas/Paloma, welcome aboard ladies and thank you for being more than eye candy.  Hoping these two badasses have an extended stay in the franchise.

With a two hour 43 minute runtime No Time to Die is the longest Bond film ever made.  Pacing with the drinking is a must, however, I never “felt” the movie was long.  The films’ pacing is spot on and the length doesn’t feel overinflated given the story. The film works and is damn near perfect.

If I have one complaint it’s Rami Malek’s Lyutsifer Safin, the film’s villain.  As far as villains go he’s rather underdefined and meh.  In terms of a Bond villain, he’s creepy, but not much else sadly.  Even with that, the film’s still entertaining.

No Time to Die is well worth a trip to the theater and is quite the ride.  Give it a look and let me know what you think.  It’s a 9.5 for me.

Venom: Let There Be Carnage

In this sequel, Tom Hardy returns as Eddie Brock, loser and host to Venom.  The first film

was enjoyable, but drags in places, making me nervous for round two since VLTBC has a

surprising run time of only 90 minutes.  Fortunately, director Andy Serkis and writers Tom

Hardy and Kelly Marcel take full advantage of the time constraint and waste no time

getting things popping and keeping the pacing on target.

Picking up where the original film left off (if you haven’t seen it or need a refresher, I

recommend you give that one a look prior to seeing this, no time is spent catching you up

on anything) we’re thrown into the world of insane serial killer Cletus Kasady/Carnage

(Woody Harrelson) and the stage is set for the ultimate symbiote showdown.

Once again, Tom Hardy shines as he acts against himself, the ebb and flow and resulting chaos delights.  Venom brings the funny as well as a surprising amount of vulnerability, insight, and heart.  The budding bromance between the two is fun.  Woody Harrelson is just plain creepy fun.  Bonus, they improved his wig so I didn’t waste time thinking about how jacked up and ridiculous his hair was (I’m still not over Pedro Pascal’s don’t in “Wonder Woman 1984”). The rest of the cast is solid, but largely underutilized.  

In terms of plot, it’s pretty basic.  Just enough to get from point A to point B and the resulting battle.  There’s enough to tie everything together and keep things progressing, but it’s far from deep or expansive. Yet, it works as far as it goes, so…

There are fewer action sequences this go around, but what there is solid and pretty exciting. With a PG-13 rating there’s only so far they could push things, so it’s not terribly graphic or overly violent for what it is.  

When all is said and done, “Venom: Let There Be Carnage” is an entertaining hour and a half that’s worth a look on the big screen.  Fair warning as always, be sure to stay for the mid credit sequence. It's intriguing to say the least.  

I’m giving this one a solid 8.

Free Guy

Not being a gamer, video game films are extremely hit and miss with me. So gamers you may want to take this with the proverbial grain of salt. 

But Free Guy, starring the affable Ryan Reynolds has been touted to be the feel good film of the summer.  A tall order for sure, but one I decided was worth the risk, so I again masked up and headed to my local theater.  Hoping against hope I wasn't left bored and regretting my decision.

Keeping it short and sweet I'll get straight to the point, I didn't.  

Free Guy while not a laugh riot is a solid, entertaining comedy that runs unexpectedly deep.  It's a fresh take on the typical gamer film that allows us non-gamers to go for a thrill ride without gamers feeling disappointed.  There are plenty of references, inside jokes, and Easter eggs for all to enjoy.  

In addition, the film kicks things up a level by being sweet, emotional, thought provoking, and heartwarming.  I loved every minute of it and couldn't help being invested in the characters, their relationships and the story.  I laughed, got weepy, stressed out, and left the theater with a big smile on my face.

The film's direction is terrific, the acting/chemistry spot on, the soundtrack kills, and the special effects are perfect.  Free Guy Some of the best use of cameos that are a pure delight.  

Free Guy is one of those rare films that is authentic, satisfying and leaves you wanting more.  Definitely worth a trip to the theater to see this one on the big screen.  

I'm gonna give it a 10. 

 

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings 

Once again, I've ventured forth to check out the latest Marvel Studios movie offering. "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" a 2 hour 12 minute origin film. Knowing basically nothing about the subject (beyond the brief references in "Ironman" and "Ironman III") I went in with no expectations beyond the hope of seeing an entertaining film.

A low bar to be sure, but one that was not only met but exceeded exponentially.

"Shang-Chi" is an entertaining, visually stunning (eye candy galore), thrilling cinematic ride from start to finish wrapped in an amazing soundtrack. Wonderfully directed, with an amazing cast (sadly, most of whom I'm unfamiliar with) solid plot filled with heart, humor and angst.

Marvel has delivered amazing action sequences in the past and takes it to the next level with "Shang-Chi". Mind blowing, fast paced hand-to-hand combat has you ducking and dodging in your seat and leaves you breathless.

In a few places the pacing is a bit choppy, but never causes tedium or restlessness.

Awkwafina once again delights and is the film's secret weapon. Her relationship/chemistry with Simu Liu's Shaun holds, molds, moves the film together perfectly. Friend goals! A necessity as you have to work a bit with this one to see the "big picture" .

"Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" ushers in Phase 4 of the MCU with a bang and creates excitement for what's next for these characters as well as the MCU as a whole. Speaking of which, the film includes 2 must see credit sequences (one mid credit, one post) so stay until the very end.

And yes, I'm saying this is a film that begs to be seen in a movie theater and is well worth the trip. I'm giving this one an 8.5

Disney's Jungle Cruise

Even as a kid I always thought that the jungle cruise ride at Disneyland was silly, corny, and otherwise ridiculous.  But, I love(d) it anyway.  It's the perfect ride to kick back on, catch your breath and plot your next move for the day.  Disney's Jungle Cruise looks like it holds the same promise as summer movies continue to roll out.

Like the actual ride itself one of the first delights in Jungle Cruise comes in the form of the tourist cruise with all the bad puns and less than spectacular "danger" very chessily and charmingly delivered by Dwayne Johnson's Frank.  It's all terrible in the best way possible.  Yes, the horrible puns run throughout the film and I snickered and enjoyed each and every one.  Johnson commits to the ride aesthetic and it works. Adding to the fun are Emily Blunt's Dr. Lily Houghton bringing the sass and spurring the action along. While her high maintenance brother MacGregor, Jack Whitehall, reluctantly gets dragged along for the adventure of a lifetime.  In a nice touch, MacGregor's plucky comedy relief comes with a more dramatic/deeper edge.

Jungle Cruise plays out like The African Queen meets Romancing the Stone with a dash of The Mummy (the good one not that POS with Tom Cruise) for kids. When it works, it works well with plenty of action, suspension, and thrills that entertain.  Johnson and Blunt's sparring and their chemistry hold the attention and the film together are an enjoyable pairing.  Like Pirates of the Caribbean before it, Jungle Cruise gets fleshed out to make a serviceable story line that contains some surprises along the way.

The biggest issues with this film, and so many others, comes in the form of the villain.  The two villains actually.  Neither comes off as particularly villainous and by having two separate ones they become even more watered down.  I will say that the CGI, especially that of Aguirre is a bit intense and may be a bit much for younger kids.  

All in all, like it's namesake Jungle Cruise is an entertaining, cheesy, charming slice of summer fun.  It's a 7 for me.

 

Hot damn!  After being pushed back from the original release date of May 2020 (twice) Black Widow finally hit the big screen.  Squee. Yep, I was excited to head back to the theater to see this one on the big screen in what I hoped would be all its glory.  So, with a little prayer to the movie gods, I ventured forth with great anticipation for a banging start to the summer movie season.

It pains me to say, but the movie gods were not particularly kind this time around and in addition to being the first major film of the summer, Black Widow is also the first disappointment.  

Flat, jumbled storytelling, pacing issues, predictability, and far too much glossing over key elements (Taskmaster, the Red Room, Budapest etc.)  made for a “meh” movie going experience.  Basically, all the things I wanted to see the film address and give Black Widow a proper sendoff were lacking. Very little character development occurs for Natasha or her “family.” I realize the characters are Russian and stoic, but the performances range from lifeless to uncomfortably sad. Even the action sequences fell short, especially for a Marvel film.  They were simultaneously over the top and underwhelming.  Not sure how they managed to achieve that, but they did.  

Individual moments and aspects of the film are intriguing, humorous, and thrilling but overall Black Widow falls short of expectations to the point of being rather boring.  There is so much meat for this film, but upon biting in it’s mostly bone.  By and large Black Widow comes across as a 2 hour 13 minute setup for the next thing (the post credit scene really drives this home) instead of a film to honor the character of Natasha Romanoff and bring her story to a satisfying close. I’m giving this one a disappointing 5 and saying don’t kick down $30 to see it at home.  If you want to get out of the house and brave the theater, make it a matinee.  Otherwise, stick with the Disney+ shows, they’re more satisfying.

FYI: If you haven’t watched The Falcon and the Winter Soldier episode Truth you may want to check it out first.  Just saying.

Movie Review: F9: The Fast Saga

After more than a year and a half (October 16, 2019 to be exact), I once again stepped into

one of my local movie theaters.  No lying, to say I was filled with trepidation (and relief, the

elderly black lady I chat with at the theater made it through the pandemic) being in public

venue after so long, and wanted to make sure I could handle the stress/nerves/fear by

seeing something that if need be I could walk out on.  Happily, after I settled in and had a

few minutes of deep breathing to calm myself, I not only powered through, but had a terrific

time.  The biggest shock to my system was the quality of the film.

After going to the well eight times, I really didn’t expect F9 to be as engaging, charming,

emotional, and dare I say deep as it is. With a 2 hour 25 minute run time, F9 takes fans

on an unexpected journey of family that’s thrilling, funny, heart warming and heart breaking. 

The over the top action sequences and scenarios max out the BS meter once again and I

couldn’t have been happier for it or enjoyed it more.  As for the big, “how are they gonna

top…?” it delivers and then some.  

Speaking of delivering, F9 brings it over and again as various players from previous

outings pop up through the film.  The ladies FINALLY get their due and really get a chance

to shine. Best of all, F9: The Fast Saga accomplishes something I never thought possible. 

Yes, it actually manages to fold the crapfest that is Tokyo Drift into the franchise in a

satisfying manner.  Say whaaaat?!  Yep.  Moving forward, Tokyo Drift no longer sticks out

like a badly infected sore thumb that needs to be excised post haste.  Yes, it’s still crap, but

it’s crap that now belongs!  

All told, F9: The Fast Saga is not only a solid, entertaining film within the franchise, it’s a

solid, entertaining film overall.  Definitely a great way to get back into the

theaters and enjoy some “big screen” action.  It’s a 10 in the Fast and Furious franchise

and an 8 in general.  If you want to head back to the theater and get your feet wet, this is as good an excuse as any.  If you do, be warned, stay into the credits, there’s more to be seen.

Movie Review At Home Edition: Those Who Wish Me Dead

 

As much as I miss going to the movies, I’m still nervous about doing so, so I look forward 

to these theatrical home releases.  From the trailer, “Those Who Wish Me Dead” looks

 like a couple of hours of heart pounding entertainment.  Upon viewing, not so much. TWWMD clocks in at a mere hour forty minutes, however more than half of that is a 

vague, drawn out, dull setup for the second half of the film. 

 

Not having seen the book this is based on, here’s what I got out of this mess:

 

Some guy (a forensic accountant) discovered some damning information about someone/something that he reports to authorities.  The someone/something wants

 to quash the damning info,  so that someone/something hires some other mysterious suited guy who sends a couple of hitmen to retrieve the damning info and kill everyone 

that may have seen it.  Accountant guy gets spooked and runs with his kid before the hitmen can get to him.  Not trusting the authorities and wanting to get his story/info to 

the media, naturally accountant guy flees to a heavily forested state park where his law enforcement buddy works, thereby putting law enforcement buddy and his pregnant wife

in danger. 

 

Got it? No?  Me neither.  But wait, there's more!

 

Angelina Jolie happens to be the smoke jumper, ex girlfriend of law enforcement buddy. She's suffering from severe PTSD, which caused her to fail a psych eval, but  is still 

working.  Isolated in a watchtower in the middle of BFE, no problems there.

 

Seriously, wtf?!

 

After that nonsensical mess, the film starts and actually becomes interesting.  There

 are some good action sequences, a handful of good character moments, but it’s all 

too little too late.  Nothing is ever explained and there are too many unanswered 

questions.  *SPOILER* What happened to the horse?

 

“Those Who Wish Me Dead” is more a first draft of a film that never amounts to more

 than squandered potential.  Nothing more than background noise while you do 

something else. I’m renaming this Those Who Wish For Better and giving this 

clunker a 2.