Can't you believe that it has been 25 years, since this movie came out during its first released? Yep, it is now Halloween, and really want to talk about "Hocus Pocus." I grew up with this movie, since I first saw it on the Disney Channel program and now as I am an adult; does it still hold up? Here it goes. The movie its about the Sanderson sisters as back in 1693; their goal is to take the lives out of children in Salem, Massachusetts so they could be young forever. A teenage boy name Thackery Binx gets himself turned into a black cat, due to the witches curse, and they would later be hang. Binx continues to live on as a cat, while a California boy name Max accidentally brings them back by lighting the black flame. Now its up to Max alongside with his sister Dani, and Alison as they team up with Binx to get rid of the witches once and for all. The movie isn't really a movie that make you think, nor has some deep meaning to it. It is really movie that is suppose to be fun and entertaining; it really shows and does not disappoint. I will admit though, the movie does have some flaws as its not a perfect movie, but it doesn't make it a bad movie. The effects themselves has some pros and cons to it; even using CGI on Binx, where at times he looks good, and at times he looks bad. The story isn't really original, but it is really well told for what it needed to be. The humor is funny, and does have moments that are dark; even when its for adults. The cast do a really good, mainly for Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy. They are the stars in the movie, and really do keep us entertain. Omri Katz, Thora Birch, and Vinessa Shaw are good too. Doug Jones is also great as the zombie, and really good how and what a zombie should perform. The makeup on him is fantastic. John Debney's music is outstanding, and never forgettable. The pacing is never boring, and the visuals themselves really does have a Halloween vibe to it. Kenny Ortega does a terrific job on directing the movie, and the cinematography is nice to look at. The movie may not be a masterpiece, but it is a terrific movie, and it is fun for the whole family. Whenever we enter Halloween, the movie should not be forgotten, and it wouldn't be the same without. I can always get into the Halloween spirit, whenever I pop this in, and be entertain by it. If you haven't seen "Hocus Pocus," then feel free to check out as it is worth your time. I enjoy this movie, and I'm giving it a 9 out of 10.
Reviews
115 Reviews
Poltergeist
(1982)
Definitely A Film That Knows What Scares You
29 October 2018
"Poltergeist" is a film that tells about an everyday family as they lived in the suburbs, where they happen to be normal as no one is rich by having expensive stereos, fancy cars, or living in a mansion. It features a mother and a father, as they have three children, where everything seems to go well and all; however, a beautiful little girl name Carol Anne talks to a TV Set, and something strange happens as they enter from another dimension by taking over the house, and kidnapping their only child. Now the Freeling family calls in a group of parapsychologists and a spiritual medium as they try to do whatever they can to save Carol Anne, and deal with their ghost problems. I have this one memory that pops in my head, where there was a scene that the Freeling family are trying to leave the suburbs, and get the TV out of their hotel room. That was the only clip I've seen for a very young age. Also, I did try to watch this movie on TNT; until toward the end, I stop because the movie was going too far and was really scared by it. Years go by, I begin to look back at the movie, and appreciate it for what it is. I never experience a movie like or even its genre, but that is the point for a movie like this. I'm a man now, and have no fear of watching horror movies. Of course this was rated PG, and really does have an edge to it; it features faces peeling off, an evil clown, a scary looking beast, skeletons coming from the grave, and a tree. This is definitely a film that knows what scares you. This was my first Tobe Hooper movie, before seeing the first two "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" movies. Yes, there was a controversy on who directed the movie, whether it was Tobe Hooper or Steven Spielberg as he co wrote and co produced the movie. Watching the movie, I do get a Spielberg vibe as it features suburban area, and some of that whimsical music which that is definetly Spielberg. I'm sure there are some moments that is Hooper's, but if I had to say who directed the movie; I say the movie is both directed by Hooper and Spielberg. Spielberg couldn't receive a co directing credit, because he working on another movie that was also as famous as "Poltergeist," and that is "E.T. The Extra Terrestrial." Both films that were well received, and successful at the box-office, but "E.T." was making the big bucks. Nevertheless, they're both great movies. Although, to be honest, I do like "E.T." a bit more than "Poltergeist," but that is a whole different topic. "Poltergeist" is a fantastic horror movie, and both Spielberg and Hooper have done a terrific job on collaborating the movie together. The story is very well told, and love the suburban area as you do get a sense of atmosphere going on; the family themselves act like a real family. JoBeth Williams and Craig T. Nelson have done a great job for portraying as the Mom and Dad of the movie. The child actors all did great, but the one child actor that became the heart and soul of the movie is Heather O'Rourke. She is cute, and really a child that you fell in love with. Yes, I cannot forget during the moment, as the ghost enter their world; she really speaks the movie's most memorable quote "They're here." As I'm watching her, it really is sad that she is no longer with us, and wish she would still be alive and have a successful career. Things happen in live, and yes can't forget by Dominique Dunne as this was her only movie and it really does sucks about what happen to her, which is really tragic. With that said, the special for the most part are indeed special, and ILM has done a marvelous for making the ghost looking more threatening. They're about as threatening as the ghost from "Ghostbusters." Jerry Goldsmith has made a memorable score, and really one of his best that he has ever done. The film's suspense is top notch, and very well filmed. The movie does have its emotional moments, especially for Carol Anne, and you do want her to be reunited with her family. I don't know how much I can say about "Poltergeist," but its a classic movie. If you haven't seen "Poltergeist," then feel free to check it out. I'm giving it a 10 out of 10.
Halloween
(I) (2018)
The Best of the Halloween Sequels
21 October 2018
After seeing many "Halloween" sequels, which I find some that are good, and some that are not. For Rob Zombie's, he made one that was okay, and one that was totally on crack. How does this was fare up? Here are my thoughts: the movie retcons all the sequels and Zombie's as this one acts as a sequel to John Carpenter's "Halloween." No more of Laurie Strode and Michael Myers being siblings. It takes places 40 years, as Michael Myers is brought back to prison again, then escapes again by putting on his mask and start going around killing people around Halloween night. For Laurie, she is dealing with PTSD, as she is getting herself prepare for Michael's return and take care of him once and for all. I got to see it last night, and I am happy to say that this is the best of the "Halloween" sequels. I actually did found a "Halloween" sequel that I love that is about as good as the first one. However, its not a perfect movie by any means, but here is why. There were some moments that were a bit predictable as you would know who is going to die, and some of the humor that aren't funny. Also, I wish the title wasn't called "Halloween," as they could have come up with a better title if this was called either "Halloween 2018," "Halloween Returns," or "Halloween: The Revenge of Laurie Strode." Nevertheless, the movie has some good humor that did made me laugh as this was written by Danny McBride, Jeff Fradley, and David Gordon Green. Both McBride and Green have done films like "Pineapple Express" and "Your Highness." The script they wrote is well written, and Green does a really good job directing the movie as he is capable enough to create a moody atmosphere, and have moments that are suspenseful. John Carpenter returns to do the music, and teams up with Cody Carpenter and Daniel Davies as they have done an outstanding job with the music, and it is awesome to hear the "Halloween" theme and other familiar themes that Carpenter has created. The opening titles is terrific, and really gets me in the right mood that I am watching a "Halloween" movie. The movie is definitely well filmed, and the visuals themselves are really strong. The performances are terrific. For Judy Greer, I thought she did a good job for playing the daughter of Laurie Strode, which I can't spoil the movie, but you'll see what her character does. Now for Jamie Lee Curtis, she is awesome, and was nice to see her kick Michael Myers' butt. She is Laurie Strode. It was also nice to see Nick Castle returning as Michael Myers, while some was done by James Jude Courtney. The movie does have gore in it, but its not as gory as what you say in the Rob Zombie's one, which they take things up a notch with the gore. Michael Myers in this movie is the definetly the Michael Myers we all know and love as he is what he should be. Not in a thorn cult, nor trying to give any reasons on why he is evil. Sorry Rob Zombie, but you miss the point on what makes Michael Myers evil. He is an evil force, and there is always a mystery behind it. The movie does have some nice twist and turns, and nothing more I can say about it. One last thing, the last act of the movie was both suspenseful and exciting at the same time. Can't spoil it, but you have to see it for yourself. If you are not a fan of Rob Zombie's or any of the sequels that don't live up to John Carpenter's classic, then this is the one you will enjoy. I enjoy this movie, and I am giving it a 9 out of 10.
A Solid Stand Alone Movie
15 October 2018
With Michael Myers out of the picture, John Carpenter and Debra Hill thought the series itself should be an anthology that deals with different Halloween related stories. Unfortunately, everyone hated the movie, and wanted the same movie again with Michael Myers. Not ready for something new and different, huh? With that said, the movie acts as a stand alone movie, where the movie makes no mention of either Sam Loomis, Laurie Strode, or Michael Myers. The story follows about a doctor name Daniel Challis as he becomes suspicious about the situtation, where he meets a beautiful woman name Ellie Grimbridge as they go to Santa Mira by investigating the Silver Shamrock factory where they make Halloween mask, and being led by Conal Cochran. As things go south, Cochran explains his motivation that he is returning Halloween to its sacrificial origins by doing witchcraft, and killing innocent children. To whoever wears those Halloween mask, and watching the commercials, they will died and a bunch of insects and snakes come out of people's face. Its up to Challis to put an end of this nightmare. I will admit, when I first saw this movie, I did not like and never find it scary at all. I was on the same boat as others as this is a "Halloween" movie, but without Michael Myers. As the more I keep thinking about it, the more I've begun to appreciate for what it is. I appreciate for trying something different, but people just want the same movie, and don't want something original. In the trailers and the posters, they address that Michael Myers is not in the movie. They even said "The Night No On Comes Home," but just didn't seem to capture anyone's attention. This was a time before the internet came along. Sometime in the future, they just need to learn their mistakes and go "Okay, back then we weren't ready for something different, now we are and won't repeat the same mistake over again." Not sure it will, but there is only one way to find out. Tommy Lee Wallace does a solid job for directing the movie. As a writer, he explains in the bonus features that he did not wrote the script, but did some re-write to the script as the credits mislead that he was the sole writer. The real writer was Nigel Kneale, who was not credit for the movie, but he deserves so as he wrote a solid script. The cinematography by Dean Cundey is filmed well once again, and the visuals themselves are fantastic. The movie does have that Carpenter vibe, which speaking of Carpenter, he also did the music with Alan Howarth and was able to make a different music for this movie, and really outstanding. The atmosphere is moody, and done well, while the effects are good for the most part. The performances are really good, especially for Stacey Nelkin, Tom Atkins, and wonderfully played by Dan O'Herlihy. If the movie wasn't part of the "Halloween" universe, especially, when its the third "Halloween" movie due to its title, then maybe the movie would have gotten great reviews. "Halloween III: Season of the Witch," may not work as a sequel, but it works as a solid stand alone movie. Not perfect, but not that bad all. I say give it another chance. I'm giving it an 8 out of 10.
Halloween II
(1981)
Can't beat the original, but its a solid sequel
15 October 2018
In "Halloween II," the film picks up right where the first movie left off, as Michael Myers survives from getting shot by Sam Loomis, and continues to kill more victims, and try to finish of Laurie Strode. Now Loomis must protect Laurie from Michael and Laurie must survive before its too late. Its hard to top on what made the original "Halloween," a classic, which sadly you can't as it had already set the bar really high, and now there is nothing you can do about it. On the other hand, "Halloween II," does its job for making this a fun sequel. The movie is really faithful to what John Carpenter did with the first one, and Rick Rosenthal, the director really shows that he wanted to be true to first movie; he succeeds really well and got to give him props for doing it. The cinematography is done by Dean Cundey once again, and does another marvelous job as he knows how to shoot film really well. The visuals are about as good as what the first one did, and the atmosphere itself its about as good as the first one. The filmmakers have put their darnest to make this sequel as faithful as possible. The movie is not perfect by any means, but thankfully, the movie didn't turned out to become a disaster. The music is done by John Carpenter with Alan Howarth, which I enjoy, but I prefer the traditional classic piano music that first one did. The story is written by Carpenter and Debra Hill, and thought it was written fine, but not the greatest there is. The performance are done well, but I give most props to Donald Pleasence and Jamie Lee Curtis. The other characters are alright, but not as interesting as Sam Loomis, Laurie Strode, and Michael Myers. The movie does feature gore, than what the first one did, but it really doesn't hurt the movie. I enjoy it, but the director didn't want it, as he wanted to be like the first movie. Carpenter, instead re shot the certain scenes for the movie as he thought it will appeal the audience a bit more. Not a strong move. If the movie didn't have gore, then maybe it would have been the most faithful sequel to the original "Halloween," and whether or not it could have been a perfect sequel. The idea of Michael Myers and Laurie Strode to be brother and sister is fine, but nothing much I can say about. I know the new one will ignore that concept, but I can take it one way or the other. "Halloween II," is nowhere near as good as the first one, but for what it is, its a good movie. Can't beat the original, but its a solid sequel. I'm giving it an 8 out of 10.
Halloween
(1978)
A Classic 70s Slasher Flick
14 October 2018
Before there was Jason Voorhees, Freddy Krueger, Ghostface, and among others; there was Michael Myers, an unstoppable evil, who stalks and lurks its victims. And wears a William Shatner. LOL! In all seriousness, "Halloween," tells the story about Michael Myers on what happened 15 years earlier into the movie. He kills his own sister, and gets himself to be in hospital. Flash forward to 1978, Michael Myers escapes and goes into Haddonfield, Illinois by killing some victims around Halloween night. I first saw this movie on AMC, which is probably during its Fear Fest (if I remember correctly), and thought it was pretty darn good. I was so drawn in of the psychological aspects of Michael Myers as what Dr. Sam Loomis describes him, where there was a scene that Loomis explains the Sheriff about Michael Myers, when he first met him as a six years old with a blank, cold emotionless face, and the blackest eyes, the devil's eyes. That is all you need to know. His character perfectly sums up how evil Michael Myers is, and definetly what makes him into an icon. Donald Pleasence does an amazing job for the role that he was born to play, and he is Sam Loomis. Its funny to know that Carpenter uses that name from a classic Hitchcock movie "Psycho," and the character of Sam Loomis was played by John Gavin. Jamie Lee Curtis, the daughter of Janet Leigh, makes her debut as an actress, and really does a real good job as Laurie Strode, the girl next door. We start off from her not being strong into a strong character. The rest of the cast like P.J. Soles, Nancy Kyes, and others all did well for what they were given. John Carpenter is a gifted filmmaker, and was more than good as he is terrific for writing the script alongside with Debra Hill; then he was terrific for directing and creating an iconic musical score. The cinematography by Dean Cundey is marvelous, and really do love the looks of the film's visual. The atmosphere itself is very moody, and does give you the feel of Halloween. The premise is superb, and never I find it boring. The movie doesn't have that much gore like what you see in other horror movies, but it works well without it. I don't know what is left to say about "Halloween," except that its a classic 70s slasher flick, and it could be my favorite Carpenter movie. I believe it is. I love "Halloween," and I give it a 10 out of 10. Be careful or the boogeyman is going to get you.
Predator 2
(1990)
Schwarzenegger or not, its at least entertaining
14 October 2018
When I watched the bonus features of the first "Predator" movie, a poster for "Predator 2" pops up, and I never would expected that there was a sequel to "Predator." So I checked out the trailer for this movie on Video Detective, and I thought it look very intense. I did watch this on television, alongside with my little brother; it was TV-edited and I thought I loved it. As time went one, I bought the DVD as a 2-Disc set, and my opinion has changed as I thought "Eh, it was okay, no Schwarzenegger, but not bad at all." Now, as I watched this movie a couple a days ago, and I really end up enjoying it for what it is, than I ever give credit for. The movie takes place in Los Angeles of 1997, as crime was out of hand, where Mike Harrigan is trying to end the war, but gets stalked by a Predator, where it hunts and slaughters some more. Now Harrigan must face the Predator, and give everything all that he has got. Yes, its not as good as the first movie, but its not really that bad. Here is why: the movie is directed by Stephen Hopkins, who would go on to direct "Lost in Space," "Judgement Night," "The Ghost and the Darkness," "The Life and Death of Peter Sellers," "Race," and is well known for directing the fifth "Nightmare on Elm Street," movie. I thought he has done a fairly decent job on making this an entertaining movie. He is no John McTiernan, but didn't do a bad job either. The special effects for the most part are good, despite some bad outlines. Stan Winston still does a great job for designing the Predator, while Kevin Peter Hall does a great job for portraying the Predator. It is cool to see all the toys the Predator uses, and showing the side of its character for what it kills and doesn't kill. The action scenes are really well done, and the atmosphere itself is fine in its own right. The music by Alan Silvestri is really good, and it really does make my blood pumping whenever an action scene pops up. Also, its really one of his best scores that he has done in his career. The cast in this movie all did good, and like the first one they're not three dimensional, but they're at least likable. Danny Glover doesn't need to be like Schwarzenegger, but he was good enough to be his own character, and does give a good performance. Gary Busey plays a good human bad guy, Bill Paxton is also fun, despite the fact he is ripping his role from "Aliens." Sure it would be something to see both Glover and Schwarzenegger sharing some scenes together, but it is what it is. The story is not as engaging as the first one, but its not bad. There are some moments that I thought were bad such as the Predator getting struck by lighting as if it where "He-Man." Also, the Predator in the bathroom, where it jabs a needle to its chest, and makes that weird sound which for some reason makes me laugh. Not intentional, but couldn't help but laugh. "Predator 2" I thought was good enough to be an entertaining movie that has good action set pieces, decent suspenseful moments, great music, good performances, and some memorable lines of dialogue. Schwarzenegger or not, its at least entertaining. I give this movie a 7 out of 10.
Predator
(1987)
Pure Action, Horror, Sci-Fi, and Schwarzenegger
14 October 2018
"Predator" has been a childhood of mine, as our eldest brother show us this movie on FX, then one time when he got himself a copy of the movie on DVD, and we all love it from beginning to end. The movie is about a group of soldiers as they go into the jungle to look for some hostages, until one of its members set them up, and then come across of an extraterrestrial, that is hunting for sport and begins to slaughter them one by one. So its up to Dutch, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger as he must face the Predator alone, in order to survive by becoming the ultimate warrior. I don't what else to say that hasn't already been said, but everyone knows this movie and it definetly gets so much to talk about as this is the most quotable and most memorable movie of all time. It has a lot of memorable one liners with fantastic action set pieces, and at the same time its really suspenseful. The film is like 106 minutes, and never was I bored by it. The cast all did great, where they may not be 3 noted, but they at least have a strong presence. Schwarzenegger, alongside with Carl Weathers, Bill Duke, Sonny Landham, Richard Chaves, Shane Black, and Jesse Ventura are all great together, and you really do buy them for the roles they were given. They're also likable too. Kevin Peter Hall is also really good as the Predator for the way he moves, and the way acts. The special effects, and the Predator design by Stan Winston is fantastic. John McTiernan, who would go on to direct "Die Hard" 1 and 3 has made a fun movie, and really knows how to do the action scenes really well. The atmosphere in this movie is really strong, and love the setting that this movie takes place in the jungle. Alan Silvestri's music is really unforgettable, and definetly one of his best scores. I could go on more about this movie, but if you haven't seen "Predator," I say check it out; its definetly pure action, horror, sci-fi, and Schwarzenegger. I am giving this classic Schwarzenegger movie a 10 out of 10.
A Quiet Place
(2018)
A Film That Deals With Isolation, Survival and Redemption
6 October 2018
"A Quiet Place" is a film that deals with isolation, survival and redemption, as it tells the story of a family that are being hunted by creatures, whenever it reacts to sounds it kills by instinct. So the family must work together, as they will only have to communicate by sign language without making any sounds at all. First of all, I never got into the hype of the movie, as this movie was generating so much buzz after its debut at the South by Southwest Film Festival (same for "Ready Player One"); moreover, I got curious about it, and see what the fuzz is all about. After seeing this in a movie theater, I was impressed how well executed the movie did. The movie really did told a good story, and this was all done in a visual way as it shows us, but never any need of telling us by just shoving it into our faces. The characters may not be three dimensional, but the movie does give us exactly what we need to know about, in order to care for them. The cast in this movie are outstanding. To start off, John Krasinski has done a fantastic job for portraying the husband and father of the movie, as his character is trying his best to keep his family safe and alive. Aside from his performance, he also knows how to make this movie to make it look like a film, and his direction is absolutely top notch. Kudos to Krasinski on making this a darn good movie. His wife, Emily Blunt, also does a terrific job in the movie as the wife and mother of the family. The child actors Noah Jupe and Millicent Simmonds have both done a great job, and for Simmonds, is really wonderful for her role, and Krasinski was smart enough to cast someone who is really deaf without having someone pretending to be deaf. The music by Marco Beltrami is really good, and very much one of his best scores as it is both terrifying and atmospheric. The cinematography itself is both gritty, and beautifully filmed at the same time. The movie does have a sense of fear and isolation as we hope the family in this movie remain alive, without being killed by a creature that hates sounds. There were moments that got me teared up, but have nothing else to complain about. The movie itself, which I can see as others compare to as this is a cross between "Tremors" meets "Signs;" it may not be original, but its about as original as it can get. If you haven't see "A Quiet Place," then feel free to check it out as this movie can definetly thrill you. As long as you are being quiet. I'm giving it a 10 out of 10.
Friday the 13th
(1980)
Happy Friday The 13th Everyone!
14 July 2018
As a child, I was not allow to watch any of these movies, as they are R rated horror flicks that contains nudity, violence, etc. I do remember one of my vague memories when "Friday the 13th: Part 3" came on TNN before it became Spike TV, and Paramount Network, I remember seeing Jason in a hockey mask chasing some girl at a barn. Heck, I remember when my uncle brought a copy of the movie when he rented from a video store, and I sneakily put the tape in to see Jason on an old VHS tape and seeing a brief snippet of him he did look quiet scary. After that, my mother caught me, and I turned it off. Never intend to watch it, I just only wanted to see Jason for a bit and that was it. With that said, here is my review of the first one that started it all, before Jason became the main killer, as well as putting on his iconic hockey, brought back as zombie, going to Manhattan, Hell, space, fighting Freddy Krueger, and being rebooted. The first film's plot is pretty simple, as you have a group of teenagers that are trying to reopen Camp Crystal Lake, but something evil is lurking them as it kills its victims. When I first saw this movie, I really love it, but as time goes by, I began to recognize its flaws. Nevertheless, its far from being a bad movie, and it is not the worst thing ever as critics make it out to be when it first came out. There is a lot of good things to say, where is the bad isn't that much, nor that big of a deal. To start off, I thought that Tom Savini's makeup FX are outstanding, and really is a master at it. The movie does have some great kills such as putting an axe on Jeannine Taylor's face, as well as having an arrow into Kevin Bacon's neck. The music by Harry Manfredini is completely unforgettable, he made that theme sound so iconic and everyone always like to remember that theme, when something bad is about to happen when you hear "Ki Ki Ki Ma Ma Ma." Totally classic. Taking place in the woods is great, and really does have that surreal atmosphere quality as you do feel somewhat unsettle as if you were alone in the woods. The characters I'll admit, aren't really three dimensional as you would seen in other great horror films, but at the end they are still likable. The acting isn't the greatest, but its really not that bad either. They all did fine for what they have to do; the best actors, in my opinion are Adrienne King and Betsy Palmer. For King, she really does have a natural beauty, and for having the girl next door type. Now for Palmer, she is having a blast with this role, and you can't take your eyes off on how fun she is for playing Jason's mother. The plot is simplistic as it needs to be, and the direction by Sean S. Cunningham is very solid. While as much as I love Palmer's performance, it would have been interesting if she had more screen time, if the audiences would have thought that she is a nice woman, before the twist ending is being revealed that she is the killer. Imagine that. Also, while I do love the character of Alice, I do notice a character error, where she runs away from Pamela Voorhees as she gets into the Jeep, but doesn't drive off as she screams by one of the victims that Pam killed. Don't get me wrong, I do love the climax, but for a realistic standpoint, she should know that the Jeep has gas in it, and could have turned the keys over so she can get herself out of there. The Jeep has gas, when Pam first arrives at the camp. Just saying. Lastly, I do love the last scene, which I'll admit, I did get jumped by the last scene, where Jason played by Ari Lehman jumps out off the water to pull Alice into the water. Very scary, to say the least. All in all, no matter what flaws this movie has, "Friday the 13th" is a fun thrill ride that has great kills, scare factors, unforgettable music, and likable characters. I'm giving this movie a 9 out of 10.
Ghostbusters
(1984)
The Brave, The Best, The Only...Ghostbusters!
2 June 2018
"Ghostbusters," is considered to be one of the greatest sci fi comedies of all time, and it has endured by many generations as they had grew up with this movie and still cherish it til this day. This movie was definetly a childhood of mine, as I watched this on an old VHS that was recorded on TV before having an actual copy of the movie; then it came to DVD, and now we have Blu Ray. Now I'm an adult, the question is: does it hold up? Well, here is my review. The movie is about these three scientist: Peter Venkman, Ray Stantz, and Egon Spengler as they all got fired from the university, so now all they have left is to start a business of their own by catching ghosts. Furthermore, we have Dana Barrett, who has a ghost problem as the building she lives in is being taken over by the evil Gozer as her minions known as the Terror Dogs to posses both Dana and her nerdy neighbor Louis Tully as they are about to bring the end of the world. Its up to our heroes to kick some ghost, and to save the world. Its as ridiculous as it may sound, but it works and definetly well executed. The movie's screenplay is written cleverly by both Dan Aykroyd and the late Harold Ramis, and they both have given great performances. Ernie Hudson, who plays Winston Zeddemore, doesn't show up into the second half of the movie but he does he give a good performance too. Sigourney Weaver and Rick Moranis are both excellent for the roles they were given to play. Annie Potts does fine for playing the secretary. William Atherton plays Walter Peck, as you really love to hate him. The villain Gozer is definetly a real threat, and really has a strong presence in this movie. As for Bill Murray, he is the man! He really steals the show, and his lines of dialogue are outstanding. Speaking of dialogue, the movie is definetly quotable for such great lines like "Nice shootin' Tex," "Nobody steps on a church in my town," "He slimed me," and of course "Back off man, I'm a scientist." The movie itself is really funny, and all thanks to its cast as they know how to make the comedy work. Even Ivan Reitman's direction is really well done as he balance it really well for mixing both the comedy and horror elements into the movie. The movie does go at a very good pacing as it feels tighter, and doesn't drag too long. The ghosts in this movie are memorable as you have Slimer, Gozer, Terror Dogs, Librarian Ghost, Stay Puft, as well as the Dream Ghost which I'll get to. The gadgets as everyone remembers the PKE Meter, Ghost Trap, Ecto Goggles, and the Proton Packs. Cannot forget the Ectomobile! Elmer Bernstein's music is definetly one of his greatest scores, and does have a great soundtrack such as the theme song by Ray Parker Jr., "Cleanin' Up The Town," "Magic," and "Savin' the Day." The special effects may have some bad ones that don't age well, but for the most part, they are really good as this was all done practically without any use of CG at all. That is minor issue, but the major issue, which I am not a fan of is that dream scene where Ray has sex with a female ghost. I thought it was totally out of place, and should've been left on the cutting room floor. That is just my personal opinion. Nevertheless, "Ghostbusters," is still a classic as it is funny, exciting, suspenseful, creative, and has a good heart. I am giving this movie a 9 out of 10!
Hook
(1991)
An Underrated Spielberg Movie That Can Crow
5 May 2018
I understand that critics really don't like this movie. Even Steven Spielberg, himself, doesn't really like this movie. However, five years ago, he did say that he really wants to see it again and see if he can appreciate a bit more. I think he should, because I don't thinks its that bad, nor one of the worst movies that Spielberg has made. The movie has developed a strong cult following, and has many fans that grew up with this movie during their childhood. I, on the other hand, am one of them. I have watched this on an old VHS copy of the movie; as an adult, I watched this in its high def glory on Blu Ray, which it really deserves to have special features than just a bare bones release. The movie deserve a documentary about the making of the movie, a vintage featurette from back in the day, trailers, TV spots, deleted scenes, outtakes, and possibly a loving tribute to the two most gifted actors that we lost such as Bob Hoskins and Robin Williams. I was devastated to hear what happen to Robin Williams, and it sucks that he and neither is Bob Hoskins will be interviewed for a future Blu Ray release. I couldn't watch this movie, due to them passing away; until 2017, I was able to get over it as I watched it for the first time, and still love this movie; as well as how much I missed them. With that said, the movie is about Peter Pan, who is no longer the boy who didn't grew up as he is now; he goes by Peter Banning a husband and father who is completely obsessed with his job over his family as he goes on a trip to dedicate a children's hospital for Wendy, who she and Peter had once a romantic relationship; moreover, Peter's children have been kidnapped by his old nemesis Captain Hook, as Tinker Bell arrives to bring Peter back to Never Land as he must rediscover who he was, defeat Hook and save his children. To start out the with the positives, I love the concept of having Peter Pan growing to be a husband and father as the movie itself does deal with the psychological aspects of our main character as Peter is so drawn to his life's work, rather believing in fairy tales as he thought were nonsense. Once Wendy tells him the truth, Peter wonders whether he believes or just out of his mind. Now he does believe, he continues to know more about himself as realizes what were his happy thoughts as all he ever wanted was to be not only a good husband, but be able to be a good father. The movie really has good message, as while there is nothing wrong with work; you just can't put push your family away. Family is always the most important, and as they say "Family comes first." This is definetly one Robin Williams' best performance, and he will always be Peter Pan as he captures the child like quality as well as being a workaholic. Dustin Hoffman is very well cast as Hook, and definetly having a blast with this role; the makeup on him is also good too. Bob Hoskins is really good as Mr. Smee, and really knows how to give a good performance. For Maggie Smith, her performance is also good too, and I thought this is what she look like just as she did in the "Harry Potter" series; it wasn't, it was actually makeup, and that is also good too. The child actors that play Peter's children were good too, as well as the Lost Boys. I didn't think they were as bad as some make them out to be. Of course, you have Rufio, a fan favorite played by Dante Basco is also a really good actor, and still is well known for that role. The sets are, of course look like a set, but still they are really there as you feel that you are in Never Land as opposed to being in place in front of a blue or green screen. The action set pieces are a whole lot of fun, as you get some enjoyment for a good old swashbuckling action adventure. The movie does have some really good laughs, as Spielberg knows how to make the humor work, as well as I thought his direction is pretty darn good. He was able to accomplish for what he had to do, in order to make this concept worked. The concept for Peter Pan growing up may be hard, but should proud on what has done. The run time is over two hours, and I was never bored by it as it kept me going with the story. John Williams' music, I thought, its one of the best scores he has ever done, as I find it both memorable and unforgettable. There were moments that made me cry, like Peter rediscovering his past, Peter saying "Thank you for believing," and Peter crying into tears for every happy thought; its not because of how beautiful the music is or how great Williams' performance is, but its how much I missed him. That is what made me cried. For any negatives, the special effects, don't get me wrong are really good and thought that ILM really did really good job with the matte paintings, the flying scenes, and Tinker Bell's size. However, there were some shots that I find them obvious, as well as being dated. Nevertheless, the effects for the most part are really good. Of course, there is a goof where Tinker Bell takes Peter to Never Land to never grow up, but all of the sudden he is. It may be a plot hole, but sometimes, I like to think that when Peter becomes a teenager, he will never grow up to be an adult as long as he can have all the fun he wants. Not the best interpretation, but its the least that I thought of. Lastly, I am not a fan of Julia Roberts' Tinker Bell, as while its not horrible, its just that she really doesn't have that much of a personality like maybe be a little feisty or be somewhat interesting. I think Spielberg could've picked a better actress for someone to play that role, but if he really wanted her to play Tinker Bell, then she could have done something to make her character interesting. I don't hate Julia Roberts, as she is a fine actress, but just awfully miscast. She did fine, but could've been better. Overall, "Hook" is an underrated Spielberg movie that can crow, as it has a great cast, exciting action set pieces, beautiful music, and has a heart to it. Give this movie a chance, and think many happy thoughts. I am giving this childhood of mine a 9 out of 10.
The Disaster Artist
(2017)
The Ed Wood of 2017
15 December 2017
"The Disaster Artist" tells the true story of Greg Sestero (actor who played Mark in "The Room," and co-wrote the book with Tom Bissell) as he is desperately wanting to be an actor, while he comes across a man who came from another world name Tommy Wiseau as they both became friends, and would go on to make the greatest bad movie of all time known as "The Room." I have seen "The Room," which I thought was mind-blowing, and never thought anyone would make this bad, aside from Ed Wood who has been making bad movies. Even Uwe Boll, himself, makes bad movies based on video games. "The Disaster Artist," has been receiving a lot of buzz, and I believe that James Franco, who not only deserves to be nominated, but deserves to win the Oscar for either Best Actor or Supporting Actor. Either way, he deserves to win one. He really capture did capture the spirit of Tommy Wiseau, who at times is crazy, but shows that he really is human. We really do feel for him, and we follow him along as he trying to make this movie. Dave Franco plays Greg Sestero, and seeing him alongside with James really do feel like that they are best friends, and not make things distracting that in real life they're brothers. Seth Rogen play Sandy Schklair, the script supervisor who claims himself that he was the director of "The Room," and not Tommy Wiseau. He really is just like what audiences would pretty much point out of the flaws that Tommy is making, and he plays it really well too. The rest of the cast all did great. Franco's direction is really well done, and does know how to tell a good story, while getting invested with the characters. The cinematography is shot handheld, but it does give a sense of realism that it feels like real life, and while watching the movie, you feel like that were part of the behind the scenes of "The Room." The movie itself is not only funny, but definetly has a really good message when it comes to film making. I believe does go up there with "Ed Wood," and both of those movies do share similar themes and messages. They both deal with friendship, and have a great message about making movies. Like "Ed Wood," this movie should be shown to the scholars, and to those that are interest in the film making business. I won't spoil the movie for you, because I want you to see this movie and judge it on your own. If any of you are fans of "The Room," then you are going to love this movie. I had a fun time watching "The Disaster Artist," and I am giving this movie a 10 out of 10.
Power Rangers
(2017)
A Morphinominal Experience
27 March 2017
It has been three years, since this was first announced as Lionsgate and Saban teamed up to do reboot of "Power Rangers," and now it is finally here for the time in 2017. This movie came out on my Birthday, and got to see it the day after it came out, and all I got to say that "Power Rangers" was a morphinominal experience. I had such a fun time with this movie, and really had the pleasure to see a "Power Rangers" movie on the big screen like I never had before. I will not spoil this movie for you, because I want you to be surprised by it. Pressing on, the movie tells our five teenagers with attitude as they all come from different backgrounds, when they stumbled across as they found these power coins that gives them their own strengths and found a spaceship as they meet their mentor Zordon and his robotic assistant Alpha 5 as they are chosen to become Power Rangers. While that's going on, we have Rita Repulsa as she has come to Angel Grove to wipe out humanity as our five main heroes must come together as a team in order to save the world. It may be your typical origin story like you have seen a million times before, but it works on its own level. With that said, this is a darn good looking movie, and this does not look like a Michael Bay movie. This is definitely Dean Israelite's movie, the director that brought us "Project Almanac" which I really enjoyed that movie, and he really does care on making this movie as he knows how the fan-base really loves "Power Rangers" and never acting as a director that really wants a paycheck. I give him huge props for putting a lot care into making this movie, and his direction is absolutely wonderful. The way the movie opens, which I can't spoiled has made my jaw dropped and it was an incredible way to open. The movie's tone is dark, but it still retains the essence of "Power Rangers," where it never forgets the cheese factors. This movie is like a cross between "Chronicle" meets "The Breakfast Club." I really do love the look of the movie as it is beautifully well filmed, and really has that the kind of atmosphere as it does look gritty, but still has the colors. Brian Tyler's music is epic, and I loved that kind of vibe as it really sounds very sci-fi, but for a coming of age superhero movie. You do hear, the "Power Rangers" theme song which it does make it a treat for fans that grew up with the series. The cast in this movie are just fantastic. Bryan Cranston as Zordon is really remarkable as he embodies the character as not only he plays as a wise mentor, but very complex as he is trying to get our heroes to become Power Rangers. Bill Hader as Alpha is really funny, and enjoyable to watch. I do enjoy the redesign of this character as he looks more like an alien robot, instead of some actor in a suit. No disrespect on the original Alpha, just like to point that out. Elizabeth Banks as Rita Repulsa is really funny, but quite menacing at the same time. This Rita does a whole lot more, than just sitting at her palace doing nothing and she really does fight the Rangers. As for our heroes, Dacre Montgomery, Naomi Scott, Ludi Lin, Becky Gomez, and R.J. Cyler have all done such a superb job to have great chemistry together as their acting is very natural and they all do have a charisma. They played flawed teenagers, as they go through real life issues instead of just being goodie goods from the show. They really are the Power Rangers for this generation. I am very pleased for this movie to go deeper into the mythology of Power Rangers as opposed to what the show couldn't do. The action in this movie is pretty good, and so does the special effects. The pacing is never slow, and really does keep me invested with the story, and as well with its characters. The humor, thankfully, doesn't have any of the burp or fart jokes like what happened to the recent "TMNT" movies. This has the right kind of humor like what Marvel Cinematic Universe movies have, and it knows when to have fun. I did cry during that one moment in the movie, but once again, cannot spoil it for you. Can't forget about the Zords and the suits as they look really cool in motion. Love them very much. Any flaws? Yes, but they are minored. As much as there was character development for the Rangers, but we kept getting more from Jason, Kimberly and Billy. Sure Zack and Trini do have moments to shine, but you wish there was more to them. Nevertheless, there was enough to care about them. As for Goldar, I thought the design of him looks interesting, and can see why they went with it as it fits within the context of the movie, but you wish he had more of a personality instead of being a run of the mill monster. Sure he is intimidating, but really wanted more from him. So I find this Goldar both good and bad at the same time. I really love this movie, and really do enjoy the aspects of teamwork as it does add to the heart of the movie. "Power Rangers" is a loving tribute to the series, and you are going to have a wonderful time at the movies as it appeals to the old and new generation of fans. Kids can enjoy it, and so can adults. This was the best Birthday that I've ever had, and I am giving "Power Rangers" a 10 out of 10.
Raiders of the Lost Ark: The Adaptation
(1989 Video)
A Fan Film Made With Love And Passion
26 December 2016
Everyone has already know the story of "Raiders of the Lost Ark," as it tells about an archaeologist name Indiana Jones as he goes on an adventure to search for the Ark of the Covenant with the help of Marion and Sallah, while his arch nemesis Belloq works with the Nazis as they go after it. Also, we all know what a classic movie that was as it was made by two famous filmmakers Steven Spielberg and George Lucas; but did you know that there was remake of this movie? Yes, there was! No, it was not made in Hollywood just to make a quick buck out of it, it was entirely remade by three guys from Mississippi as it took them over the course of seven years and seven summers to remake one of the greatest adventure films of all time. This fan film was made by Eric Zala, Chris Strompolos, and Jayson Lamb as they all teamed up for trying to make the best movie they could possibly make. After seeing the documentary "Raiders!: The Story of the Greatest Fan Film Ever Made," I have finally got my hands on an actual copy of their fan film on DVD, and I started doing a double feature of the original and the fan film. Seeing the fan film for the first time, I was amazed on how these guys were able to pull this off, and yes I'm happy that they were able to filmed the airplane scene that they couldn't do as kids. The movie does have some goofs like some of the actors' age, hair being either long or short as well as the quality of the footage they shot as it is all mixed with Betamax and VHS cameras. This is only available on DVD, so don't expect this to be on Blu Ray; the only thing that is HD is the airplane scene. That's it. Nevertheless, the flaws may be there, but the heart is there as these guys were able to get this movie finish and they have finally accomplished. This shot for shot remake is definitely one hundred times better, than that despicable shot for shot remake of Gus Van Saint's "Psycho." Because that movie was only to make a quick buck, but this fan film is made with love and passion. If you are either fan of "Raiders of the Lost Ark," or just a huge fan of the "Indiana Jones" series, then this is definitely worth checking out. It truly is one of those fan films that has to be seen to be believe. These guys took a lot of risk for remaking a movie they love so much, and were able to get things accomplished. If you want to get a copy of this movie on DVD, go to their website: www.raidersguys.com or just go to their official Facebook page. I really enjoy "Raiders of the Lost Ark: The Adaptation," and I will be looking forward to see one of their movies on the big screen. I am giving their fan film a 10 out of 10.
An Insightful and Fascinating Documentary of the Greatest Fan Film Ever Made
12 December 2016
Around the 2000s, I've always been interest in watching the "Indiana Jones" because I've never watch them or own them on tape during the 90s. Now I am a fan of the series, that includes the fourth one (in my humble opinion); there was another version of "Raiders of the Lost Ark," that I have came across on the internet and started to learn on how another version was made as it wasn't made in Hollywood. Instead, it was made by the three guys from Mississippi as they remade this movie for the course of seven years, and has now become a cult classic. I've never seen the fan film, but I have been desperate in wanting to see it; the fan film is now available on DVD, and hoping to get a copy of it one day; just had to get it on their website: www.raidersguys.com or their Facebook page. Also, I have a copy of the book which it features the same title as the documentary, and I really loved it as it reminds me of a Richard Linklater movie that I loved "Boyhood." I imagine if Linklater makes a movie out these guys that made the fan film. With that said, I was really amazed by to hear their story as the filmmakers had to go in depth with by interviewing the three guys that worked on the fan film Eric Zala, Chris Strompolos, and Jayson Lamb. They also interview their family and friends as well as Harry Knowles from Ain't it Cool News, and filmmaker Eli Roth who was well known for "Cabin Fever" and the first two "Hostel" movies. The documentary does not only gives us about their experience on making the fan film, but sharing about what their childhood is like where they share about their parents getting a divorce, and the downfall of their friendship. Of course, they get reunited as they become themselves again as everyone was extremely positive on the fan film they made, and meeting Steven Spielberg for the first time as he also loves their fan film and how it inspire Spielberg too. The documentary also features Zala and Strompolos with the help of Lamb as they are working the airplane scene that they couldn't do, since they were kids during that time. When you watch the end credits of the documentary, you do see the airplane scene where on top is the fan film, and on bottom is the actual movie with Harrison Ford and Karen Allen in it. "Raiders!: The Story of the Greatest Fan Film Ever Made" is an insightful and fascinating documentary of the greatest fan film ever made; I've watched this four times on Netflix, and it does get better as I watch it. I still want to see their fan film, if I ever get a copy it and I would love to own this documentary on Blu Ray (which is now available). If you haven't see it, check it out, I strongly recommend this documentary. If you don't have a copy of the documentary, then feel free to watch on Netflix. I am giving this documentary a powerhouse 10 out of 10.
The Adventure Still Lives
11 December 2016
After Indiana Jones disappear on the big screen, since his last adventure for searching the Holy Grail and his father; many people have wondered if there will be another one, so Steven Spielberg reunites with George Lucas and Harrison Ford as they decided to make another "Indiana Jones" movie. The trailer hit the news, and everyone got so hyped up and were just completely let down after seeing it. I've been hearing too much hatred of this movie, and I believe that this movie needs to be rediscovered from what has been overlooked by everyone that have been picking on the movie. Maybe not everyone, but still picking on it. The movie now takes place in the 50s era, where you have all the sci-fi B movies that came out and instead of Nazis you have the Russians. Indiana Jones returns as he is now an old man, but still is a man that can fight. He comes across with Mutt Williams as they embark on an adventure to look for the crystal skull, while we have the return of Marion Ravenwood, and the Russians going after it as our heroes need to return the crystal skull to where it belongs before it is too late. I may be the only one that really likes this movie, so just hear me out before trying to attack me. When I saw the trailer, I was hyped, and thought that this was going to be the best one since "Raiders of the Lost Ark." Sadly, it wasn't as I hoped for. However, when it was over, I really did had fun watching it. So why do I like this movie? First off, Harrison Ford is still Indiana Jones, and I love the way how the movie builds up as we don't see Indy yet, while we see him trying to pick up his hat and as the camera turns, he turns to the camera. Welcome back, my man! Also, he still looks great in his iconic outfit and really impressed that he was able to do his own stunts for the most part. I never had a problem of him being an old man, so it really doesn't matter. Shia Labeouf for playing Indy's son, I thought he was good too. The relationship between them isn't on par as the relationship between Indy and his father, but it works well on its own as it is not a carbon copy. Cate Blanchett for playing the main villain isn't up there with Belloq or Mola Rom, but she is better than Donovan from the third movie. I thought her performance was really good, and really do like the way she looks and the eyes she gave on Indy. Ray Winstone does a fine job, but nothing to run home about. John Hurt, at first, I thought he was useless, but as time went by he isn't what I thought he was. His character does serve for the movie's plot as he does know about the crystal skull, and really wants to return it so he can be his normal self again. Karen Allen returning as Marion was a real treat, and I couldn't be more than happy to see her again. She still is spunky as she was from the first movie, and really love seeing her smile again. Steven Spielberg's direction is absolutely fantastic, and still knows how to setup the camera, and making the action so exciting. The story may not be the greatest, but I think it is fine for what it is. The cinematography is really good, as it is bright and colorful looking. The action in this movie is just as good as the first three movie. The special effects by ILM are good, but not really their best work; it may have CGI in it, but it is not one hundred percent complete CGI. The movie does feature practical stunt work as well as practical effects. Some of the CG is good, while there others are not. John Williams' music isn't up there with the music he created for the first three movies, but it is pretty darn good. The humor is still there, and I thought they were funny for my taste. I was smiling at the end of the movie, where Indy and Marion got married, and I believe these two should stay together. I know it may turned people off, but I really don't care. The series doesn't always have to be James Bond, where Indy goes from one girl to another so it really doesn't need to be a big deal. I'm happy that they are together. I really never had an issue for having aliens in an "Indiana Jones" movie, because let's face it, the series weren't meant to be realistic, and the filmmakers are always going to put supernatural elements for all the artifacts that Indy searches for like spirits coming out of the Ark, pulling someone's heart, and a knight waiting in a cave. I know the series have some religious aspects, but they are more than that. I do admit that I don't think we need to see Mutt swinging through the jungle with monkeys, so I think it should've been cut out and focus more on the chase scene. The infamous scene where Indy hides in a fridge at a nuclear test site, I think everyone is making this too much of a big deal and I believe it is just as ridiculous as the whole "Han shot first" thing. Overall, "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" isn't all that bad as what many people are making it out to be. If you still don't like this movie, that is fine but I like it, and enjoy it for what it is. The adventure still lives, and I am giving it an 8 out of 10.
This Movie Has Chosen Wisely
25 September 2016
After the second Indiana Jones movie being a dark film, Steven Spielberg want the third film to be toned down as a lighter film while being dark for a little bit. If that is not all, Spielberg want to show the human side of Indy, while having a relationship with his father Henry Jones Sr. Anything else? Showing the backstory of Indy as a teenager in 1912 where he gets a scar on his chin as well as being afraid by snakes, using the whip and getting the hat; that was George Lucas' idea, by the way. With that said, the movie takes place in 1938 as Indy goes on an adventure to not only search for the Holy Grail that deals with everlasting eternal life, but to search his father while reconnecting with him. The movie itself is still nowhere near on the same level as "Raiders of the Lost Ark," but it is about as close as it is ever going to get. Spielberg's direction is really outstanding, and really still keeps his audience to be entertain. The movie is also very well written by Jeffrey Boam. The acting is also fantastic as Harrison Ford is still the best as he is Indiana Jones. No questions ask. I really do enjoy seeing Denholm Elliott and John Rhys-Davies returning as Marcus Brody and Sallah. Alison Doody is also really good as playing Dr. Elsa Schneider, and fun as a bad Indy girl. Julian Glover, on the other hand, is good but sadly not as intimidating as Belloq and Mola Ram. As for Sean Connery, he gave such a delightful performance for bringing humor into the table as well as having a great chemistry with Ford. Can't forget about River Phoenix, who is also really good to play the younger version of Indy. If this movie hadn't feature a young Indy, then there wouldn't be "The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles" TV show. I've never seen the show, but I might need to give it a look. John Williams' music is really wonderful to hear as you still hear the Indy theme, and hearing the theme of the father and son relationship. The special effects by ILM are terrific, but like the second film there are some effects that look dated. For example, the scene where Indy throws a Nazi officer out of the zeppelin for having no ticket; the officer gets up and yells at a zeppelin as he being filmed against a blue screen. The action scenes are also exciting, and very well handled. "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" is better than the second Indy movie, but still not on par with the first Indy movie. Nevertheless, this movie has chosen wisely. I gave this movie a 9 out of 10. Now the franchise has laid to rest, Indiana Jones will return until 2008 where we have a movie that deals with aliens, nuking in a refrigerator and leaving audiences feeling empty. Stay tuned as I review a movie that really deserves another chance, and that is "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull."
Doesn't have the same magic as "Raiders," but it still is a fun adventure movie
4 May 2016
After "Raiders of the Lost Ark" turned out to be successful as well as consider to be a classic movie, Steven Spielberg and George Lucas teamed up together once again in a sequel that many people considered this to be the darkest of the "Indiana Jones" series, and this was the movie that started to created the PG-13 rating due to how dark and violent the movie turned out to be. The movie is rated PG and it is not the kind of PG movie that kids would watch because it is intense for younger audiences. Heck, the movie has kids being turned into slaves as they kept getting whipped by the bad guys, and you really have a guy taking someone's heart out and having the body burned. Some PG movie, huh? If this was rated R, then I honestly don't know what difference will it make. I guess that is up to you for deciding about this. Speaking of the film's rating, the movie takes place a year before "Raiders" as Indiana Jones along side with his side-kick Short-Round and Willie Scott (Indy's love interest) as they go from Shanghai to India as they come across of poor villagers as they sent him to retrieve the sacred stones, and rescuing their children as they are being used as slaves at a palace called Pankot. Now its up to Indy to put an end of this nightmare before an evil priest named Mola Ram and his army of thugs get their hands on completing the five stones to rule the world. Everyone is split on this movie, which is the same thing when they were split on the fourth movie. I'll review the fourth one someday, but right now my main focus is this movie I am reviewing. When I first saw this movie, I thought it was bad like how everyone feels but as time goes by as I keep watching this movie it starts to grow on me. However, is it as good as "Raiders?" No, not really. Also, it certainly ain't the "The Empire Strikes Back" of the series because "Empire" is a much better movie than this, and I don't have too much to say about. So here is whats good and bad about the movie: Harrison Ford still hasn't gave a bad performance, and he still manage to be on top of things as he continues to be rough, cool, and looking for fortune and glory. He really is good in this movie as he did with the other "Indiana Jones" movies. Amrish Pri is really intimidating in the role as Mola Ram, and something about his looks really does fit to his character. He is definitely a worthy villain, and you can't take your eyes off of him on what he does in this movie. Jonathan Ke Quan plays Short-Round which like Willie Scott everyone has a hard time with him. His accent doesn't bother me, and I honestly really don't find him annoying. I thought he gave a good performance, and really is good sidekick to Indy; he can drive a car, helps out with Indy, and can actually fight like Jackie Chan. Now, for Kate Capshaw, she is not a terrible actress but I do understand how everyone feels when they are annoyed by her character. I'll admit she is pretty useless in this movie, and doesn't do anything much at all except that she whines and complains all the time; there is one part where she punch a bad guy during the mine cart chase, but still she remains to be a damsel in distress throughout the majority of this movie. Her character is not well done, but I can't help but laugh at her when she keeps squealing for Indy and always complain about other things. Her romance with Indy is nothing much to root for, and I will put her character in the "So bad its good" category. So bottom line, not really a well-rounded character like Karen Allen did as Marion Ravenwood, but she is funny to watch. The rest of the acting by the cast is finely done. I know Spielberg considered this to be his least favorite, but I thought he did a fine job on directing this movie as well as Lucas' ideas on doing a sequel to a classic adventure movie The special effects by ILM are well done, but there are some parts that are dated. The action scenes with the physical stunt work are really darn good. I do like the mine cart chase, which it feels like that you are on a roller-coaster. John Williams' score is about as good as what he did with his score in the first one. The movie is well paced, and the cinematography is well-filmed. Also, I do like the locations that our main characters go into. I also really do loved how the temple is designed for the movie. By the way, I do like opening musical number "Anything Goes." So yeah, I really do enjoy this movie, but its nowhere to be as good "Raiders." The story itself is fine for what it is, but its not as intriguing as the first one. I was always invested with the Ark of the Covenant more, than the stones in this movie. All in all, "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom" doesn't have the same magic as "Raiders," but it still is a fun adventure movie. I am giving it an 8 out of 10.
Raiders of the Lost Ark
(1981)
Happy 35th Anniversary To One Of The Greatest Adventure Films Of All Time!
3 May 2016
"Raiders of the Lost Ark" is my second favorite movie next to "Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope," and it is also, in my opinion, my absolute favorite movie by Steven Spielberg. Spielberg teams up with George Lucas after his success with "Star Wars" as both of the greatest filmmakers had set out to pay homage to the old serials of the 1930s. The movie is about an archaeologist and professor name, Indiana Jones as he goes on an adventure to search for the Ark of the Covenant with the help of the love of his life Marion Ravenwood. However, Indy's rival Rene Belloq has been working with the Nazis as they both go after the Ark, and it is up to Indy to retrieve the Ark before its too late. It has been 35 years, since this movie came out back in 1981 and it still is my favorite of the series. The series itself may have pay respect to the "James Bond" movies, but they also pay tributes to the old serials of the 1930s until the fourth one pays tribute of the 1950s sci-fi B movies. With that said, whenever I watch this movie, it never feels dated nor is it cheesy. Like the "Star Wars" series, you will always feel the experience as you go on for the ride as the "Indiana Jones" series explore exotic locations and search for artifacts. By getting to the point, Harrison Ford is definitely Indiana Jones as he is as Han Solo. He does a brilliant job with the role as his character is someone that you don't want to mess with because he is rough, cool and is always amazed when he is discovering artifacts. Of course, he is always into as I quote from the second movie "Fortune and Glory." Karen Allen as Marion Ravenwood is my favorite of all the girls that Indy has met in his life. Not only is she beautiful, but she can be also feisty too. Sometimes she be a damsel in distress, but she never whines and complain like Willie Scott did in the second movie. Her character is pretty complex as you learn about her as she and Indy did had some history together as she had romantic affair with him. Paul Freeman as Belloq is a really good villain, and quite a rivalry to Indy as they are always after the same artifact as they're trying to retrieve. The rest of the cast all did well. Steven Spielberg does an amazing job on directing the movie with George Lucas coming up with this brilliant concept that he had created. Lawrence Kasdan has wrote a brilliant script, and the story itself always kept me investing as well as the characters. The special effects by Industrial Light & Magic are absolutely fantastic for its used of practical effects, matte paintings and miniature work. John Williams' music is completely unforgettable, and there is no denying that the theme he created would be as iconic as the "Star Wars" theme. The action scenes are very well done as well as the physical work that were put on camera. The cinematography by Douglas Slocombe is also wonderful as I do get a sense of the 1930s, which it does put me in the right atmosphere. The humor is done well, for example, Indy has an Arab Swordsman in his way as you think there is going to be fight between them, instead Indy just shoots him because he has no time for that. The movie is also very well putted together, and it does go by at a very good pace. I never see any flaws with this movie, because this movie is definitely flawless, and it will always be either one of the greatest or the greatest adventure films of all time. "Raiders of the Lost Ark" is a classic adventure film, and I am giving it a 10 out of 10.
The Phantom
(1996)
Fun Old Fashion Adventure Flick
24 April 2016
As a kid, I remember calling the Phantom as Robin, because his mask is similar to Batman's sidekick; of course its not Robin, but its hard to believe that the mask is similar to Robin's. If you agree with me or not. With that said, I grew up watching this movie on an old VHS and really did had fun with it. This was before I started watching the Indiana Jones movies, because this movie is like watching one of the Saturday Matinée Serials. The character of the Phantom does have some similarities to Batman like having someone taking care of their wounds as well as having a cave as their hideout. The movie itself is based on the comic strip by Lee Falk, which I have not read any of them nor having that much of knowledge to it but I am curious to learn more about the Phantom. So does the movie hold up? Well here are my thoughts: The movie is about an immortal crime fighter, where he is being called "The Ghost Who Walks" because whenever they think he's dead he always comes back; the Phantom is also dealing with enemies as they get their hands of the Skulls of Touganda as they posses enough power that can cause destruction. It is up to the Phantom stop the bad guys before its too late. After watching this movie as a kid, I'm an adult now as I'm now looking back it, the movie really does hold up. I don't mean its a masterpiece, but it is a fun old fashion adventure flick. I don't know why this movie failed at the box-office, which it may have been that no one has ever heard of either the comic strips, a hero wearing a purple outfit that turns people off or the movie itself was badly marketed. Also, receiving a 4.9 on this website is really low, even a forty-two percent rotten on Rotten Tomatoes which I don't think its as bad as what everyone is making it out to be. I know the late Roger Ebert likes this movie, and I do find it really cool that he really likes it. By the way, I miss him too. Anyway, it is one or the other on why this movie failed at the box-office. In my opinion, I thought the story is just as simplistic as it is while the acting is well done. Billy Zane does a great job in the role for embodied the character as well as his charms, and his coolness which it kind of makes him the Clark Gable type. Treat Williams' performance is over the top, but he is fun to watch. Kristy Swanson does a good job, but nothing amazing to run home about. Her character sometimes is a damsel in distress, and she can be feisty too as she joins in the fight. Catherine Zeta-Jones is in this movie too, and she is great to look at before she would go on to do "The Mask of Zorro." I really do like the music that David Newman created, and I thought the theme for "The Phantom" is pretty memorable. I do like the look of the thirties like the look of New York, which it does make a great looking movie as the movie is suppose to be like the comic strips. I don't have a big deal with the Phantom's purple costume, which I wouldn't be surprise if I was the only one that can take this seriously than anyone that issues with the costume. The movie does take notes like the Indiana Jones movies, where you do have some nice physical stunt work as the action scenes. Sure the action may be like any other action adventure movies, but at the same time I had fun with it. There isn't that many CGI in this movie, which that is a big plus for this movie. I think the only thing that is CG is where the lasers come out of the Phantom's ring, and the Skulls of Touganda that Drax used at the movie's final act. I'm not sure about the Skulls that came out of the briefcase if its either CG or practical, but I thought the movie does have good effects for the most part. The movie is very well paced, and I never find any parts that bored me to death. Simon Wincer, to make a long story short, does a fine job directing the movie. Any problems? Yes. While I do enjoy the action in this movie, sometimes there are parts that are not fast enough in order to make it more exciting. Also, while the effects are good, the movie does feature some bad blue or green screen effects like where the Phantom and Diana Palmer are riding on an airplane. Lastly, I do wish if the movie could have some more character development. I read that Simon Wincer had cut out the romance parts in order to make the movie more fast-paced. So I guess that could be one of the reasons why there is not much characterization in this movie. I don't have this movie on DVD or Blu-Ray, but I would like to get one if it has any features which sadly it does not, thanks to Lionsgate or Paramount for getting the treatment that this movie deserve. Maybe Shout Factory should pick this up to give this movie some special features because we are in the year 2016, and it has been twenty years since this movie first came out. I'm calling for a twentieth anniversary special edition release. In conclusion, "The Phantom" may have its flaws, but I don't think it as bad as everyone makes it out to be. I had fun watching this movie, and I am giving it an 8 out of 10.
The Peanuts Movie
(2015)
A Movie That Will Make You Smile
17 April 2016
Charles M. Schulz was a famous cartoonist for writing the "Peanuts" comic strip, as well as writing the specials and the movies. If he were alive today, he would've been so proud of what this movie had done. This movie is a love letter to the franchise, and it does not suffer like what 20th Century Fox had done with the live action "Alvin and the Chipmunks" movies; this is what kids movies are made of, and it is suppose to be exactly what this movie should be. I could've been more than happy that 20th Century and Blue Sky Studios were trying to honor the legacy of Schulz's comic strips, and the specials that were very much directed by Bill Melendez. With that said, the movie is pretty much as I like to call it a romantic comedy adventure for Charlie Brown as he is what we know him for over fifty years, as he sees the Little Red- Haired Girl which he has a crush on and all he has to do is try to impress her. If that's not all, we also have Snoopy writing a story of himself as the World War I Flying Ace when he is trying to save the love of his life Fifi by the Red Baron. The story, in my opinion, is very well told as we are suppose to be rooting for Charlie Brown that he is trying not to be a quitter, and he is wanting to succeed. Of course, Snoopy's fantasy story is done well, but it is also cute at the same time. The voice acting by the child actors had all done a fantastic job for voicing these beloved characters that we all love and remember. Also, it was nice that the people who worked on this movie were able to use Bill Melendez's recording voices of Snoopy and Woodstock; even for having Craig and Bryan Schulz (son and grandson of Schulz) for being part of writing the script as they were very protective of Schulz's work, and do not want this to be a bad movie. That is very smart, because without their involvement it would not made the movie great. The movie is funny, and it is also heartwarming at the same time. The movie is under an hour in a half long, and it does go by at a pretty good pace. The music is by Christophe Beck is very good, as well as hearing Vince Guaraldi's original themes. Now for the animation, when I first heard that it was going to be CG and not hand drawn I thought it was going to be terrible. However, when the very first trailer was posted online and I was so darn impress by it. The animation to me is like a mixture of hand-drawn teaming up with CG animation. I have not seen many of Blue Sky Studios movies, but this one really impress me. The movie does feature to have the right balance to not only make this for the older generation, but to also appeal it for the younger generation. Steve Martino directed this movie, and I thought he does an amazing job to direct this movie. By the way, now the movie is available on DVD and Blu Ray as well as it has already been talked about, I do gotta say about the ending. The ending I thought was beautiful, and heartwarming at the same time. I also did cry because not only Charlie Brown had finally got to talk to the Little Red-Haired Girl, but it reminds me on much I loved Charlie Brown with the Peanuts gang and how much it has been going on for over fifty years, and it will also continue to live on forever. This reaction to the ending is similar that I had with "Jurassic World," where it remind on how much I loved the first one. With that said, I really love that the Peanuts gang are praising Charlie Brown and it freeze frames it from CG into a black and white hand-drawn with Schulz's name. That is perfect a way to end the movie, and this movie really does have a heart to it. When you look at kids shows turned into movies like "The Smurfs" movies, and "Alvin and the Chipmunk" movies they have no heart or any effort putted into. They are nothing but cash cows so they can take the name, and just sell nothing but toys. I'm glad this movie doesn't suffered like those, when you put pop culture references, fart jokes, and making things so darn modern. Even changing things too much from the source material. This movie gets the job right, and whenever the make another kids show turned into movies they better take notes like what this movie did. "The Peanuts Movie" is a movie that will make you smile, and I think you and your family will have a fun time watching it. I love this movie from beginning to end, and I am giving it a 10 out of 10!
It Was Better Than What Critics Are Making Of
2 April 2016
I was originally going to title this review as I quote the same way that Batman said to Superman "Tell me, Critics, do you bleed? You will?" Instead, I went with the one that you are reading. So far on Rotten Tomatoes, the audience score is at seventy-one percent, and critics are at twenty-nine percent. I understand that everyone has an opinion, and we should all respect that. However, at the same time, critics can go too far with it. I did go see this last week on Saturday, and I thought it was better than what critics are making of. I won't spoil it for you, because you have to see this movie. The premise of the movie picks up after the events of "Man of Steel," where Bruce Wayne witnesses the destruction of Metropolis as he notices Superman fighting General Zod and this makes him want to take him down for he had done. Superman receives a lot of mixed words of mouth by the world, and our two beloved superheros start to have a showdown. Heck, when everyone saw "Man of Steel" they complain about Superman fighting Zod in Metropolis, and couldn't take the fight to anywhere else. So the movie really does address the issues that everyone had as you seen the trailers or read articles about the movie on the internet. By getting to the point, here are the positives that I had with this movie. I thought the story is what it is by having a conflict between Batman and Superman so no need to go into detail about it, and certainly don't want to spoil the movie as what I said previously. The action in this movie is pretty darn good, as the fight between Batman and Superman really does make it worth awhile. The music by Hans Zimmer and Junkie XL is really good, while introducing the Batman and Superman theme were all good. The cinematography is beautifully well-filmed, and it is visually stunning. Zack Snyder does a heck of a job to bring this movie to life on the big screen, and making this more of a comic book movie. The movie does feature some nod to Frank Miller's graphic novel "The Dark Knight Returns," which I thought that was neat. I do like the costumes for Wonder Woman and Batman, which I thought they were great. Even Superman's. For the cast, Henry Cavill is still, and will always be giving such a great performance as Superman, as well as Amy Adams for playing Lois Lane. Jeremy Irons does a great job as Alfred, which I don't have too much to say about but still he was great. Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor had always got everyone concern about him whether he is good or bad for the role. To me, yes, he is over the top, but at the same time he can also be menacing. So, I say that Eisenberg made a good Lex Luthor. Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman is in the movie in a brief role, but I thought she really knocks it out of the park. She really succeeds the role perfectly, and I think fans who read Wonder Woman comic books are going to pleased. Now for Ben Affleck, which had everyone the same way they feel about Michael Keaton as Batman, and thinking he can make this role the weakest link of the movie. Thankfully, he wasn't and he really puts the negative comments to rest. I thought he does an amazing job for his take on Bruce Wayne and Batman, and his Batman is so brutal because his fighting style is like one of those "Batman: Arkham Asylum" video games. If you like those games, then you will love how he fights in this movie. He is now one of my favorites along side with Michael Keaton, Kevin Conroy and Christian Bale as Batman. The movie is very well paced, and never I find it too long. Now, is it better than or on par with "Man of Steel?" No. The movie does have some flaws like characterization, which the movie has some but could've used a bit more. Also, I notice parts that may have been edited out because Snyder said that he is going to release his R rated director's cut for the movie. I hope that version is better than what the PG-13 had to offer. So, that is all I can say about this movie. By the way, do yourself one big favor. Don't let those negative reviews get in your way, just go see it with an open mind and then you can judge it on what you have seen. With "Suicide Squad" on the way, I am sure critics are going to enjoy that film because the movie will have some fun moments. To me, I don't have problem with this movie being dark, and I don't think this universe needs to be like what the Marvel Cinematic Universe did. The DC Extended Universe can be what they want to be, and so will Marvel as they be their own. I really had a fun time with "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice," and now it all leads up to the "Justice League" movie in two parts. I give this movie a 9 out of 10.
Back to the Future Part III
(1990)
A great conclusion for this trilogy
21 November 2015
Picking up where the second one left off, lighting struck the time machine as it sends Doc back to the old west in 1885 as Marty goes back to find him, and try to bring him back home to 1985. Meanwhile, Buford "Mad Dog" Tannen is having a showdown with Marty besides killing Doc, and Doc has fallen in love with the woman of his life Claire Clayton. Everyone has their own views on which "Back to the Future" sequel is the best, but to me personally, I think they're both good and I do say that I like three slightly more than two. However, they're both not as good as the first. In my opinion, I think the humor is just as funny as the first two, and I still think that taking place in the old west isn't that bad of an idea. I do like how the west looks, and really doesn't come off from a set of a television movie or show if you may ask. I thought the drama for the characters are really well handled, and I thought Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd both continue to be great together. Lea Thompson and Thomas F. Wilson are great too, while Mary Steenburgen does a fine job and I don't find her character annoying. The special effects are good, while some are dated like having two characters in the same scene just like what the second one did as I need to mention that. The pacing is well done, and the story really did kept me involved with it. Robert Zemeckis' direction is very well directed, and I love Alan Silvestri's music. The song "Doubleback" by ZZ Top is my favorite song of the trilogy, and I really do listen quite often. As for the ending, I thought it ended exactly how it should end as the movie does have a great message as what Doc says in the movie "Your future is whatever you make it, so make it a good one." I sure hope that everyone can relate to that line, and we can make the future whatever we want to make. I really have a lot of fun with this movie, and I don't think it deserves the hate it gets. "Back to the Future Part III" is a great conclusion for this trilogy, and I am giving this movie a 9 out of 10.
Back to the Future Part II
(1989)
Its finally 2015, and we have a fun sequel!
21 November 2015
Picking up where the first one left off, Doc takes Marty for an adventure as they travel to the future 2015 as they take care some business; while that is going on, Marty's nemesis Biff steals the time machine by giving the sports almanac that Marty bought to his younger self as he creates an alternate dimension. So its up to Doc and Marty to stop Biff for letting this all happening as they try to fix time. The year is finally 2015, and the 2015 we have today is nothing like what the movie looked. Of course, I have look up many news and videos as they try to create shoes that laces themselves, and creating hover-boards that float. No the Cubs did not win the World Series, but we came so close to make that predictability a reality. So anyway, "Back to the Future Part II" is a fun sequel to watch, but not as good as the first. I thought Michael J. Fox, and Christopher Lloyd are still great together, while Lea Thompson and the rest of the cast all did great. Of course, I have to mention Thomas F. Wilson who is really good for playing a bad guy like the character he played in all three movies. The look of 2015 is really well done, which it doesn't go into the same style like what "Blade Runner" looked. The movie does have its exciting moments, and you are always rooting for Marty and Doc as they try to save time. The special effects by ILM are really good, while some seem slightly dated. The movie is also funny too, so nothing much that I can say about. Alan Silvestri's music is also really good too along side with the story. I do wish if the opening scene wasn't re-shot, but Claudia Wells was unable to due to what is happening with her family; its understandable but can't complain about that. However, I do wish if Crispin Glover was in this movie but he ends up not to due to what his reasons were as he needed more money, and not appreciating how the first one ended. I do disagree with his thoughts on the ending, and I still wish if he was in this movie. So with that said, I enjoy "Back to Future Part II," and I am sure that you will have a fun time with this one. I give this movie a 9 out of 10.
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