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Mulan (2020)
Stunning, Moving, and an Exploration Where the Animation Had Failed to Go
I hardly ever comment but after all the weird and unfair hate this movie is getting - here I am. Let me start by emphasizing that I'm absolutely fan of the animated Mulan fan and have been from childhood. My very first pair of shoes were Mulan light-up shoes! However, despite many of the movie critics ('cause what do they know right?) liked the movie, some of the audience's critiques (some baseless) started to get to me. After watching the film, I am so glad I didn't listen!
I wasn't alone either. I watched the admittedly pricey film with my parents who often get bored with films very easily and absolutely dread childish movies. I was a bit nervous at the beginning when the movie started a little slow but I was relieved to find it was short lived 'cause the movie picks up quickly afterwards. Soon we were laughing, moved, and completely stunned by the beautiful movie all while being on the edge of our seats. I was even crying not even 20 minutes in!
I would like to spend the rest of this review answering back to some of the critiques that I've been hearing that I had mentioned above because some are just ... well let's discuss!
First and foremost, I felt the film did a much better justice to paint how beautiful, breathtaking, and truly amazing Chinese culture and history is. Are there places where they got it wrong, I'm sure. But is it a step in the right direction? Yes.
Second of all, this Mulan rendition gave depth, especially in places in the story that Disney had originally skipped over. One example is how it covered a glaring plot hole in the animation by explaining what exactly was it in Mulan that made her truly different from everyone else to point of her and her family fearing dishonor (giving context to Reflection and Mulan's overall character). It also solidified the supporting cast as actual soldiers instead of being a comedic bunch who happen to be able to throw a punch despite months of military training. Even minor characters such as the the emperor was given more room and not portrayed as a damsel in distress along with the major villain. Each was shown to be a skilled leader with their own goals and history, making me love them way more in this movie than the animated one.
Sure there is no Mushu or singing and dancing cast. But now, I'm absolutely glad they weren't in this movie which ultimately uplifted the female empowerment message of the movie. With no Mushu to push her or "guide" Mulan, all the burden squarely on her shoulders giving her more agency. Seeing her accept who she is and choosing to follow her heart despite the very real consequences of death or expulsion/dishonor was made all the more satisfying and moving to witness. She didn't need a talking dragon to parent her, especially when it was simply a token character created to make a cultural movie more digestible to an audience who would not have otherwise been attracted to a telling of a cultural folktale to begin with.
Side note: I think many misunderstood the purpose of her "skills" as something alike to being a chosen one which simply isn't the case because the movie clearly stated that men have skills too. It is only a problem when women possesses the same skills as they are seen then as superhuman or witches. I would like to point out that even in the animation, Mulan was depicted to be the only one who had truly shown to have learned martial arts enough to put into combat use. Comb through the scenes and you will see the difference, that few in the army are shown to progress as far as she does. Rather than viewing this as a chosen one film, I would say that the cartoon and live action Mulan both are quick studies, the live action Mulan picking skills up at an earlier age than the cartoon.
No songs were replaced by conversation that achieved the same goal. I almost didn't miss the songs. Don't get me wrong, I still will belt them out whenever the opportunity arises, but now I simply do not look at them the same way. Having that on top of a singing and dancing cast would have made this movie unbearable and cheapen it.
Finally this whole "bad acting" critique.... I'm sure this is coming from people who aren't familiar with watching foreign movies, expecting each character to fluently speak and express English with an animated face. This being an all Asian cast, with English not being the first language of many in the movie, its unrealistic in my opinion to expect an American accent. So of course the dialogue is going to be appear to be "choppy".
Now where did this movie fail? There definitely could have been more comedy. At times, especially later, the movie felt rigid and lacked the same charming fluidity that came with the animation. Maybe it was unavoidable because it was dealing with naturally tougher content? Also the action CGI was a little off (for a lack of a better way to describe it) and flamboyant. On the other hand, I see this often with Asian historical action movies. We all know Disney clearly has the resources and money to do better so maybe this was intentional to appeal to the Asian audience? Who knows? But it didn't take away from the movie one bit. There are a plethora of thrilling scenes to make up for it.
Extraction (2020)
Unforgettable Surprise - John Wick Action w/ Great Characters
Saw this film on a whim to fight off a stomach bug and can I just say WOW. The action was thoughtfully made to be realistic. That aside, what truly shocked me was the story. I was surprised at how much screen time and dialogue was given to even non significant characters, giving the world more flesh and mind. It was so well written and shot that even a few lines gave insight to the mind of the characters. Even better, I loved how the story focused on non-Western characters whose actors all brought freshness to their respective roles, making an old penny shine new. No one takes anything sitting down and makes no apologies. Overall, stellar movie with great commentary on organized crime life-style in Desi countries.
The Commuter (2018)
Murder on the Orient Express Meets Tired Rush Hour Commuters
I just saw this film for the second time and I can truly say this is an incredible film. As a commuter who took the train everyday, it hit home from the setting to the dialogue between characters. The plot was incredibly unique that when things pick up, they PICK UP. The movie was a little slow at first but looking back, it was the writer sowing seeds that reap big later on. My favorite thing about this movie it is as though you are walking with the character, solving it with the main character. Amazing!
Frozen II (2019)
Prepared to be ansolutely dazzled but utterly confused.
If you loved Frozen then you will hate this movie. Disney seemed to forget everything that made Frozen so enjoyable in the first place - the simple plot line that made room for comedy and charming characters. It is almost as if Frozen 2 is Disney trying to make up for the lost time by upping the graphics but letting the story suffer. SO MANY elements are left unexplained that purposeful surprises are just confusing As for comedy, some parts are funny but those are few and far between compared to the first movie. In addition, the characters we have grown to love are completely changed to the point where they are almost unrecognizable. There are no level ups here as rumors have hinted but continuous let downs as to how disjointed they are to the plot. Even the songs dont even have charm!! Overall, I think Disney bit off way more they could chew. If they want to save this franchise they need to take a step back and think about what made Frozen 1 special.
Rampage (2018)
Cheesy and Shallow
I usually love The Rock movies but this one was by far one of the worst. Sure there was your military testosterone running about but that was basically it. People trying to show off how "badass" they really are only to be outcompeted by someone or something else. The science was as superifical as the movie itself. There was no depth and all points were one sided. I felt the movie had the opportunity to engage in a true conversation surrounding restorative justice when it comes to animal rights and how humans engage in it but missed the mark to hone in on an animal glorification movie. Plus the villians were the only interesting thing about the movie and they horrendously mishandled and mistreated, exposing another missed opportunity. I will add that Johnson did play a rather "different" character so that was exciting to see. Overall, if you love animals and have some brain cells to spare then this movie is for you.
Safe (2012)
One of my favorite Statham films ever!
Safe is unique compared many movies in its genre. As a big Statham fan, I enjoyed him taking on a brand new role that required him to flex his acting chops a bit. He takes on many faces with grace. Not exactly Oscar worthy but enough to impress. The relationship between him and his co-star is something new as well. He not only protects the kid out of a sense a duty, like almost every action hero has to date, but because they literally need each other. Their relationship is mutual, adding a very different feel, humane feel to the movie that has been seen sense Dakota Fanning and D. Washington. The action sequences are bold and quite unique in comparison to Statham's other films, although a little gruesome at time. In the end, everything from the characters to the plot to the setting is all very unique. There is nothing really predicable about this movie. Its just... different. For Statham fans out there, you might enjoy this one!
We're the Millers (2013)
Pretty Good! Surprisingly...
I was surprised how much the movie affected me. I actually walked away with a good feeling inside! We're the Millers balances crude humor with a legitimate good story about people's innate need of socialization. It literally spins RV on its head. The story was actually decent and pretty well written to a certain extent. The only thing was the humor is crude. However, keeping in mind who is in the movie, I didn't find this surprising. I would recommend watching this with friends and maybe, if they are old enough, family members. I would also consider watch it on a Friday night. Overall, a generous 6 out respect for the message and the plot.
Escape Plan (2013)
Braniacs with Brains and Muscles
Escape Plan is such an fantastic movie, I don't know where to begin! The movie is well written and cleverly devised. The characters have you in the palm of their hands. You don't know what is going on just as much as the characters. The best part is that you still feel like an action hero as the protagonist tries to create a plan to escape the crazy prison. There is never a dull moment. My only critique is that the movie, at first, tries to ram in the fact that the main character is a genius too many times. We get it! However, his brilliance never ceases to fail. Escape Plan is a good weekend night movie for those who are itching for a kick ass plot. I mean, to of the biggest legend in action cinema are in this movie. How can you go wrong?
Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
Actually Funny and Kick-Ass! A must see!!!
My first thought was "Oh, great! Another glorified supervillian-gone hero movie!" Then I watched it and was blown away about how wrong I was. The movie is not only good but like a fresh breath of air to a dying movie franchise. Whoever wrote the script should REALLY get an award. Everything from the dialogue to the plot is new and exciting. Nothing can be anticipated. Plus, the comedy bits are actually funny! The movie charms everyone of any age and movie taste. I was watching it on a plane full of strangers. Even though we were all staring at a small screen about three feet about our heads, we all felt like we were on one fun, action packed roller coaster. We were laughing and cheering together! That being said, Guardians of the Galaxy delivers an experience like no other. You won't be sorry you've tried it!
Moms' Night Out (2014)
Christianity aside - A Surprisingly Clean Comedy Movie
This one of the best comedy movies I have seen in ages where I wasn't waiting nervously by the remote wondering when I had to fast-forward. None of that business with this movie! Mom's Night Out is a fun filled movie for the entire family and with a great message. The only issue with this movie that might perpetuate stereotypes about nervous wreck moms and moron dads. The thing is, this is a farcical movie. Everything is meant to be embellished. Nevertheless, the movie succeeds in bringing laugh out loud comedy and a message that everyone, young and old, need to hear from time to time - if you ignore the Jesus parts. A tribute to moms everywhere who know what its like to raise young children. Overall, this is a great family movie. You might just end up buying the DVD!
The Kid (2000)
The movie for everyone. No, REALLY! I'm not kidding!!!
The Kid is a lot more enjoyable than the cover makes it out to be. This isn't your average inspirational Disney classic. The Kid charms its way through all audiences from the comedy lovers to the critics. I must however to two downsides. There might be times were the conversations sometimes runs flat and the rules of the phenomenon may some draw confusion. However, it is barely noticeable next to the impressive balance clean humor and good storytelling. It has a way to suck everyone into the dynamics of the plot. The Kid has something for everyone to enjoy. Overall, it is a guaranteed memorable movie! So if you are looking for a feel good movie or just something to watch with the folks, the you've got the perfect movie!
American Sniper (2014)
Biased and Outraging
Let me start with the some of the compliments I would give this horrendous movie: 1. The cinematography is spectacular. I commend Clint Eastwood's skill as a director. It was clean, clear, and accurate. 2. Cooper's performance, was Oscar worthy. Despite my outrage, which I will get to, I did sympathize with him and his anguish at times. I also was impressed by his dedication to his role and his strive to portray Chris Kyle with dignity and respect. 3. The paradox between the Iraqi sniper and the American sniper. The juxtaposition between the two characters and what each stood for was enjoyable. I only wished that they would have expanded on it more to cover up such a mess. Now that I got that down, here is the scathing review I think this movie well deserves: After pondering the movie for a while, I have come to the conclusion that it is an embarrassment to American cinema. No matter how I tried to look at it, the movie came across as enraging and highly offensive. If it was supposed to spur some "patriotic" sentiments, then the movie is a disaster. First, the entirety of the movie was about soldiers who only looked after themselves. Cooper's character claims that America is the best in the world but still follows the backwards thinking of "Eye for an eye." They also so disloyalty by shooting the man who fed them at his own dinner table and eventually decided to help them. In addition, throughout the movie, Kyle refers to the Iraqi people as savages. There is a complete lack of respect for the place they are destroying. As a person who has close Muslim friends, I find this highly offensive. Time and time again, this movie makes irresponsible choices and biased statements. I don't see how anyone can find this movie thrilling or enjoyable. If anything it was nauseating. I would have forgiven the movie if the characters turned around in the end. However, if that wasn't enough, the ending was a trap to create a biased public opinion about Kyle's death! I also understand that American Sniper can be seen as an inside look of the war zone in the Middle East. If that was the case, then the movie failed again because it only provided a sick biased look on the war. I would have respected it more if it added some other perspectives. I give American Sniper a gracious 3. While I hated it, I must take into account some of its good side and the soldiers that do risk their lives everyday, even if we don't agree with the circumstances.
Godzilla (2014)
Not a total waste of time.
There are some spoilers. Don't read unless you have seen the movie.
I don't understand why most people hated it. Although it wasn't the best action/sci-fi movie compared to the other options available, Godzilla wasn't too terrible as reviewed.
1. Godzilla's appearance. Yes, Godzilla got a little screen time as hoped but it was for a valid reason. The movie portray Godzilla as nature's weapon against enormous creature. Its a basic logic of food chain. There can only be one predator who can be dominant. Godzilla, who had stayed dominant for years, needs to establish his power. Thus, he acts like a predator, tracking his prey and coming in for the sneak attack. Of course he is not going to get a lot of screen time! He being late for the party makes him adds more to his bad-ass character.
2. As for the characters, I felt that it was imperative that they kill off the scientist. In most sci-fi movies, it is the crazy maniac that drives the plot and the search for the solution to the conflict. The father dying was important for the son to gain closure and understanding of the truth of the creatures. Plus, because of his death, the story line became more original. It became a story of a soldier trying to get home to his family in midst of a crisis. He was willing to do whatever it takes to do so. Everyone else were simply bystanders to nature's course.
3. Military's failure to learn their lesson. The Japanese scientist mentioned that man's arrogance is that they think they can control/dominate nature. This movie depicts that very arrogance. They don't trust what they don't know. They use whatever they have at their disposal to take care of a threat. They think they are powerful enough to take care of any threat. Thus, they continue to do stupid mistakes because they are incapable of thinking beyond their ego and understanding that their power is limited compared nature. Their mistakes and put into positions where they are powerless was to show how little we are compared to the forces of nature.
Overall, I thought the movie did an okay job of displaying the theme- humans are not as powerful as they seem to be. Nature can take care of itself and should not be tampered with. Switching the perspective from a scientist searching for answers to a soldier. It made the movie original. A soldier trying to get to his family added a more human element to the mix which made it all the more enjoyable. The action sequences were intense and never a let down. The ending where Godzilla collapses out of exhaustion was realistic and I'm glad they added it. The movie was not a complete letdown as made out to be.
Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)
A bit of both worlds... Must See!
This was not really a romantic comedy, despite the cast lineup. It more like a smart, meaningful story. There are a lot of humorous moments but also a lot of good advice. The theme was not the only great aspect of Yeh Jawaani was the beautiful locations picked for the movie. The cinematography really brought out magic of travel and experiencing new things. Deepika once again displayed her acting genius with a transformation halfway through the movie. The new faces were excellent as well. The casting couldn't have been any better. Because I love traveling, maybe I am a bit biased. However, I do truly feel that it is a movie all youngsters should see. Its not too cheesy or dramatic, a bit for everyone to love.
Epic (2013)
Epic experience!
I wanted to see Epic for a long time. I was not disappointed. Epic truly lived up to its name. The animation was flawless, colorful, and natural. Although I agree that the movie did not have shocking surprises and was why I did not give it a 9 or 10. I have to add that the movie has a unique story, and therefore the plot line fit it perfectly. Growth versus decay is a battle that has not been approached in animation and Epic displayed it beautifully on screen. The creators plaid a nice move by bringing in celebrities to voice the characters instead of using regular voice actors. Beyonce voicing the Queen, Amanda Seyfried as the main character, Jack Hutcherson as Nod, and even adding Pitbull into the mix along with other big names in Hollywood was sure to bring in fans from all over to hear their favorite celebrities voice characters. The most appealing part was the Leafmen, the incredibly strong, agile, glorious, and loyal defenders of the forest. They were JR Tolkien's elves in miniature form. It was a creative feature of the film that made it all the more thrilling. Who does want to see characters surf branches, wield bows like warriors, and fight gloriously to defend their homes? Epic, in opinion, is superior to all other animated movies I have seen for its unique story, beautiful animation and characters, and great casting. All of it put together made for an amazing experience that even my parents fell for.