The Fantastic Four: First Steps

The summer movie releases continue to chug along and this week I headed to the theater to check out the latest Marvel release, The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Why? I honestly don’t know.

I think the 2005 Fantastic Four film is trash, 2007s The Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, doubly so, and didn’t even waste my time seeing the 2015 Miles Teller led Fantastic Four. And no, I never watched the cartoon or read the comics. My interest/enthusiasm in this iteration has been lacking to say the least. Still, it’s hot and I figured an hour fifty-five minutes under someone else’s AC was worth a trip to the theater to check it out.

And here’s where I officially and respectfully tap out in giving a review.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is easily the best film version of this group of Marvel superheroes. A thousand times better than that 2005 mess.

Great retro sets and costumes. A solid script. Good actors/acting (truth bomb - Joseph Quinn’s younger, Dollar Tree, Robert Downey Jr. look kept messing with me and taking me out of the film). Good musical score, direction, action, and visuals.

It’s an entertaining film.

I’m not upset I went.

I just really didn’t care about any of it.

These characters simply do nothing for me for whatever reason. I’m not sure what it is but I never got past being apathetic about everything as it unfolded on the screen. There’s just something about this group that I've once again failed to connect with. No doubt it's a "me" thing for whatever reason. As such I’m not comfortable giving an opinion on whether or not you should give this one a gander at the theater. There’s definitely a lot there for folks to like and enjoy if you're considering going but I don't feel comfortable encouraging or discouraging you either way.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps gets a shoulder shrug from me. If you check it out, let me know what you think and how you feel about it. And yes, there are 2 end credits scenes. The first sets up next steps and the second is a splash of nostalgia.

#FantasticFourFirstSteps

Superman (2025)

This weeks’ new movie release had me returning to the realm of superheroes to see Superman (2025). For me going to see this one was more out of curiosity to see what new CEO of DC Studios James Gunn came up with in his first outing than a deep seeded interest in the actual film. The last few DC movies under the previous head left me underwhelmed to put it kindly. In order to keep myself open-minded for this one I made a concerted effort to avoid everything related going in except for a gander at the first couple of trailers.

As always, I preface the following review with my standard non-comic book reader disclaimer. My Superman knowledge/experience is limited to my exposure to Saturday morning cartoons, Christopher Reeves’ films and beyond, Smallville, sans the final season (one of these days I’ve gotta finish that series), and what’s included in Superman (2025). I’m well aware that I’m missing some major context as a result, so my take is going to probably differ vastly from that of someone like my comic book guru Ruben. Sorry buddy, but you’re gonna have to educate me on the error of my ways, yet again.

Anywho, I went in with the bar set pretty low as far as expectations. Namely that Nick Hoult to slay as Lex Luthor and not to be totally pissed I ventured out in 110+ degree heat to watch this on the big screen.

Down to the proverbial tacks of brass, while there are some things I personally have issues with (too nitpicky perhaps) when all was said and done, I really enjoyed Superman (2025).  It’s easily the best and most entertaining DC film to come out the chute for a while. Admittedly that’s been a pretty low bar for me and it’s early in the process, but Gunn has raised it exponentially. Delivering not only a solid film but a solid foundation to build upon for DC moving forward under his leadership.

Superman (2025) is ambitious and doesn’t mess around. Foregoing the standard origin story, this 2-hour 9-minute ride (complete with 2 end credit scenes which honestly you can take or leave depending on how your bladder holds up) pops off with minimal preamble and never looks back. While nice to get things moving, and largely paying off, having more context/development of where we are in the overall story would’ve served this reboot well. The presumption that we are familiar with this version of the characters/story I don’t completely love it, but I don’t completely hate either. You're joining in mid conversation.

Doing things this way also undercuts the development of a number of characters and the seeds being sown for not only this film but future projects across the DCU as well.  There’s A LOT packed in here and the feeling of being underdeveloped carried some frustration with me, especially with the cast.

So many great actors, Wendell Pierce, Skyler Gisondo, Frank Grillo, Nathan Fillion (bad rug aside), Maria Gabriele de Faria, and Isabela Merced (the screaming got old really quick) did what they could but there were just too many characters and not enough time to devote to fleshing them out as much as I’d like. Edi Gathegi’s Mr. Terrific being a rarer exception. Loved every moment of screen time he got, had me wanting even more, and I wouldn’t be upset to have a spinoff. Definitely want to see and learn more about his character.

The casting of David Corenswet as the new Superman is a solid choice though honestly, I really had no idea who he was going in. Apparently, I saw him in Twisters but it ain’t ringing no bells. Whatever. I bought him as Clark/Superman and he and Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois have good chemistry and play off each other well. I can stand a bit more “fire” from her Lois, but again, I’m being nitpicky. Corenswet’s portrayal is easily one of the most human depictions of Superman. It’s a shift that won’t appeal to everyone as all the weaknesses and vulnerabilities are on full display, but it works.

Nick Hoult absolutely slays and doesn't disappoint. Yas! His manipulative, dangerous, and terrifyingly intelligent take on Lex Luthor is everything I hoped for and more. If I’m honest between Hoult and Gathegi I’m good and everyone else is a welcome but just an added bonus. Great casting all around. Bonus surprise cameos both physically and vocally.

Superman (2025) has good pacing, direction, a solid script that reflects the current times without being overly heavy handed with the messaging so you can still enjoy the film. Lots of action, wit, heart, and charm. Heavy CGI, which is to be expected, but it’s largely well done and visually stunning. I only experienced a couple of eye-rolling induced moments, but they were few and far between. There are some subtle nods to Donner’s ‘78 Superman including one William Reeve (Christopher’s son) making an appearance.

Vibrant and alive, falling between the hopeful/optimistic and the darker versions sits Gunn’s Superman (2025). It’s scope and ambition soars on many levels while coming up short on others. Still overall the world building for this franchise in particular and the DCU in general looks promising.  When all was said and done and I’d mulled over everything, I can’t deny I was pleasantly surprised how entertaining and how much fun I had watching Superman (2025). It’s familiar yet new, predictable, yet surprising. I left the theater feeling satisfied and wasn’t pissed I left the house in extreme heat to see it in the theater.

Superman (2025) gets an 8.5 from me.

#superman2025

Jurassic World Rebirth

YES!

It’s hot as hell. 

It’s a long holiday weekend. 

The dinosaurs are back with a vengeance and I for one am all for it.

Great time to head to the movies.

This week writer David Koepp has teamed up with director Gareth Edwards and a stellar cast to once again bring the thrills and action based on the works from novelist Michael Crichton to the big screen in one of the biggest and most popular film franchises as Jurassic World Rebirth made its debut.

Short take.

Over the course of 2-hours and 14-minutes, Jurassic World Rebirth delivers in spades by going back to its original film(s) roots. Unlike the last film, we actually get to see and experience human/dinosaur interaction. 

Yay! 

Perfectly balanced moments of humor. Edge of your seat, tension filled action.  Wonderfully placed callbacks and homages to the original trilogy. T-Rex! Traumatized children! The music! And more! It's all there and it brings great joy.  

Squee.

Bonus points! Added fun watching Jurassic World Rebirth lies in how the film uses your expectations against you. I’m always a big fan of that.

The new cast delivers on performance and the new characters while not all equally well-rounded are developed enough to make you invested in whether or not they live or die.  There's enough there allowing you to pick sides on which you prefer and glorying in the end results. 

Jurassic World Rebirth has the character moments needed to make it more than an action film, good pacing, solid direction and editing. You also get the elements/tropes you want/expect in a Jurassic film. Familiar scenes/sights/references abound both from the Jurassic franchise and a few other popular films. There’s a comforting predictability that manages not to undermine the viewing experience interwoven with new surprises. 

Jurassic World Rebirth isn't just fan service or an obvious money grab. There's real thought and effort put into it and it's a payoff. For longtime fans, Rebirth feels like a respectful evolution from the original that gives us what we've been asking for and brings new hope for the future of a beloved film franchise. Jurassic World Rebirth is a great popcorn movie that need to be seen on the big screen at least once.

I’m giving Jurassic World Rebirth a 9.5

#jurassicworldrebirth

How to Train Your Dragon (2025)

 

This week Dreamworks joins the trend of making live-action versions of beloved animated films with How to Train Your Dragon (2025) based on their 2010 film of the same name. I headed to my local theater of choice, joined by my friend (hi Jen) to check it out. I absolutely love the animated version of this film and had been looking forward to seeing how this one matches up.

For those of you who “poo, poo” the making of live-action films based on their animated predecessors, I think you’ll be happy with this one. Although there’s almost an extra 30 minutes of added content bringing the total running time to 2-hours 5-minutes, the faithful recreation of the original is abundant. Yes, there are tweaks here and there with expanded scenes, plot points, and world building yet the original story is still front and center.

Gorgeous cinematography and CGI work bring the isle of Berk and beyond to life. The dragons are incredible. I feel in love with Toothless all over again. It’s a stunning, believable feast for the eyes. The costumes and sets are rich with textures and details. The musical score soars.

The first twenty to thirty minutes of the film didn’t hold up for me as well as I hoped. The story is flat and a bit dry. I’m still not sure what it was about it for me, pacing? But it just lays there, and I was afraid the movie was going to be a total bust. I wasn't engaged and felt a bit bored. Once I got past the hump though, Toothless, I was all in for the duration.

Gerard Butler returning to reprise the role of Stoick brings everything full circle. However, it also showcases something that may very well be a “me” issue with the film overall. His performance felt more subdued and smaller. I felt that way about most of the actors/characters. Mason Thames’ Hiccup is more world weary and depressed than idealistic, self-deprecating, and lively. Nick Frost’s Gobbler is generic and forgettable. Nico Parker’s Astrid is fine but not fiery. The supporting cast of characters are so sidelined they aren’t as vibrant, defined, or impactful.

Everyone seemed restrained, and to varying degrees joyless. Again, may just be a me thing.

This version also dials back the overall edginess/darkness, snarcasm, and humor. It’s a kinder, safer Viking tale. I really wish they’d gone bigger and more in depth across the board. New takes are introduced but not explored so, why bother?

I’m still mulling this one over, but where I stand currently is How to Train Your Dragon (2025) is a safe retelling of a beloved animated film. While going live-action expands the overall world various aspects simultaneously makes it feel much smaller.

It’s still fun, still enjoyable, still worth seeing on the big screen to get out of the summer heat for a couple of hours, but for me falls a bit short. I liked it but wanted to absolutely love it.

How to Train Your Dragon (2025) gets a 7 from me.

#howtotrainyourdragon

From the World of John Wick: Ballerina

Another week. Another highly anticipated (at least by me) new film release in From the World of John Wick: Ballerina, the first film spinoff from the popular John Wick series. Len Wiseman of Underworld fame takes the helm, directing this 2-hour four-minute action-packed world building enterprise. The haters are already hating (no surprise) about having a female lead and John Wick not being the main character. So, if that sounds like you, don’t bother with this film or my review.

Anywho, I went in pumped to see where this franchise is headed to next, and I left with a huge smile on my face.

Ballerina has a simple, straightforward, solid script that does a terrific job of fusing the familiar world and characters of John Wick with the new world building story of Ana de Armas’ Eve in an organic and plausible way. The traditions, rules, and methods of the Ruska Roma are the backdrop for an entertaining tale of revenge every bit as satisfying as John Wick’s.  

Great casting old and new. de Amas’ is a sight to behold and there’s no doubt about the badassery she brings to the role. Yes, she’s physically smaller and weaker (she gets thrown around like a rag doll and gets the snot beat out of her) but the whole “fight like a girl” directive works and sells each and every smackdown convincingly and firmly puts her in the John Wick world. Watching her character’s skills development throughout the film is on point and impressive.  Weaponizing unpredictability in a brutal ballet, Eve's scrappy and fierce.

Yes, as shown in the trailers, Keanu Reeves does reprise his role as John Wick in Ballerina. Yes, it’s a fun as ever to see him.  A pure delight in fact. However, the best part of having Reeves return is it doesn’t define the film, only enhances it. I was completely engaged in the characters and story, not just waiting to see when he would pop up. Not an easy thing to accomplish in a franchise he helped establish, but Ballerina would actually work without Reeves at all. Yet having him present ties in nicely and is the perfect bonus. Ian McShane, Anjelica Huston, and the late Lance Reddick also ground the film in the familiar adding texture, depth, and connectivity. 

As with the other films in the franchise, there’s beautiful cinematography, great soundtrack, plenty of stunts and action, sly humor, and extreme violence resulting in a high body count. So, everything you’ve come to expect and more. New characters. New settings. New baddies. And Flamethrowers people! Flamethrowers! 

Squee!

Ballerina had me bouncing in my seat with excitement, squealing with delight, clapping excitedly, and “damning” out loud from start to finish. It’s an exciting thrill ride and a fresh, yet familiar take that breathes new life into the world of John Wick. Easily one of the best and successful spinoffs out there.  Revenge may be a dish best served cold, but From the World of John Wick: Ballerina is a film best seen on the big screen of your local movie theater. 

From the World of John Wick: Ballerina gets a 10 from me.

#ballerina

Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning

This week after embarking on a couple of impossible missions myself (finding an enhanced viewing at a reasonable time - epic fail and sneaking in and out of the house without tripping the security system (rotten dog) - success) I made it to Mission impossible: The Final Reckoning. The big question, after 29 years could this 8th film in the franchise deliver the goods and give a satisfying end to Tom Cruise’s run as Ethan Hunt? Overcoming my mental block of doing a late-night viewing, I’m happy to report that over the course of the 2-hours and 50-minutes, Cruise and company most certainly earned my trust and respect one last time.

Mission impossible: The Final Reckoning is the ultimate love letter to the franchise and its characters in the best possible way. The highest of stakes, jaw dropping and breath-taking action, out of this world visuals, surprise twists, homages, and going full circle going back the film franchises roots. All wonderfully executed in the manner that’s come to be expected (there is one scene that threw me off in its wtf/nonsensical vibe, but it was small and I’m overlooking it). 

Best of all? The heartwarming/heartbreaking emotions of, by, and for the characters. I’m not ashamed to admit, this film not only had me repeatedly on the edge of my seat. It broke me.  I choked up, I fought back tears and outright cried several times. Emotional damage alert! If you can hear the final message and not be affected, there’s something seriously wrong with you. 

There’s a nice balance of humor throughout. The pacing for such a long film is on point so there’s never a moment of boredom and you don’t “feel” the length weighing on you as you watch.  The script is great and does something so many films fail to do. You get swept up in the story to the point where logically you know it will work out, but emotionally you doubt it. You really buy into the possibility/probability this mission will fail.

While signs of Cruise’s 62 years are starting to show on his face a bit (enhanced screening is no one’s friend on that point) that’s pretty much the only place it’s showing. He gives us what we want and have come to expect.  “The run” is highlighted throughout without missing a step or slowing down. Cruise runs his ass off in these one folks. His refusal to take a knee or pull back on any of the crazy stunt work and action sequences pays huge dividends and it’s glorious.

The casts and their characters across the board are an embarrassment of riches that deliver on every level. Even some of the smallest roles that would be throwaways in most films are impactful and memorable, making you wish there would be more to come. I mean the soldier just wishing him luck? Hello, I wanted more of her backstory, please.

I can go on and on about this one (the current state of the world and political climate for one) but I won't. 

If this is truly the last Mission Impossible, Mission impossible: The Final Reckoning is a satisfying, worthy, chef’s kiss of a swan song. As the movie said: our lives are the sum of our choices. Mission impossible: The Final Reckoning is indeed the sum of all the previous films wrapped up in a memorable, sentimental, entertaining, and masterful bow.

Slow clap for Cruise and everyone associated with bringing this franchise to the big screen for the last 29 years over 8 films. Thanks for the memories. 

Do yourself a favor, accept the mission on last time and see Mission impossible: The Final Reckoning on the big screen as intended.

Mission impossible: The Final Reckoning gets a 10 from me. This review will not self-destruct in 5 seconds.

#missionimpossiblefinalreckoning

Lilo & Stitch (2025)

 

Ignore the calendar. 

The rising temperatures and the fast and furious new releases at the box office say summer movie season is upon us. This week I took to the theater to check out the latest Disney live action film release, Lilo & Stitch (2025). 

First, a small bit of housekeeping. When the original film came out in 2002, I thought it was cute and enjoyed it, but it never held a particular place in my heart. Still, being a Disney “kid” and having seen all their other live action takes, I didn’t want to miss seeing this one on the big screen. 

Onwards.

Like the other Disney live action releases, Lilo & Stitch (2025) takes heavily from the original, tweaks, and expands it and I for one found myself loving every minute of its 1-hour 48-minute runtime. 

Solid casting pays off.

Chris Sanders once again works his magic not only as writer but as title character Stitch. His fleshing out the character of Nani (Sydney Agudong) and adding Tutu (Amy Hill) brings new depth and richness to the story which ups the "feels" quotient. Tia Carrere returning to the film this time in the role as the social worker Mrs. Kekoa is a special bonus. Billy Magnussen (you can tell he had a blast) and Zach Galifianakis are delightful as Pleakley and Jumba. Courtney B Vance’s Bubbles isn’t as intimidating but nonetheless works fine since his role is now split with Carrere. 

Then most importantly is the casting of Maia Kealoha as Lilo. Not all child actors are equal and having the right on will often make or break a film. Kealoha makes this one. She's the perfect blend of sweet, sassy, infuriating, and heartbreaking. 

Missing is the character of Captain Gantu, but I didn’t have an issue with that choice. Unpopular opinion I’m sure, but with the tweaks and changes to the story his presence was neither required nor missed.

Great CGI work, beautiful cinematography, and kicking soundtrack all mesh together beautifully to bring this film to life. Lilo & Stitch (2025) feels more grounded and organic yet remains heartfelt and fun. 

I laughed. I had fun. I got verklempt and ended up fighting back tears. 

Dammit.

My theater was packed with families, many with young kids and all of them along with the adults had a good time. It was a rowdy viewing for sure, but the fact that I was so into the film that the clamor not only didn't bother me, but actually added to the experience, speaks volumes. 

I’m sure Disney “purist” will take exception to this version of the film, but I actually liked it better than the original. It captures the spirit of the original and adds the right amount of freshness to keep it entertaining, energetic, and relevant. Lilo & Stitch (2025) is still very much a touching story about love, loss, and the meaning of 'ohana

Far from broken, Lilo & Stitch (2025) gets an 8.5 from me.

#liloandstitch