Nbrayton17 Reviews

The Avengers (2012)

Almost as good as the Dark Knight

[9/10 · 15 July 2012]

I admit it's been a while since I have seen this film but I have yet to give a proper review. Hopefully, this review can trigger the awesome feelings you had when watching The Avengers.

This is what the Marvel movies have been leading up to, that is, every Marvel movie excluding the Spider-Man trilogy. The amount of hype behind this movie was tremendous; while waiting in line for The Avengers, the usher at the theater tells us that "this is the best movie I have seen in 5 years". That being said, it's extremely hard to go into this film without any expectations.

So the question then is, was The Avengers good? If I can, I would call it Marvel-ous.

Let's start with what I really enjoyed.

The two strongest parts of The Avengers are the beginning and the end. When the film opens, we get to see the heros in their respective environments. And the opening scene with Black Widow stands out as one of the best. After Loki threatens Earth, the Avengers team has to assemble. Watching the team finally come together after waiting so many years, is a special moment. Now, the end was good because we finally get to see The Avengers work together as a team. While it took the entire movie for the Marvel heros to figure out that they are stronger as a unit than as individuals, it's worth the wait. How the camera panned across each hero who was doing something that effected the next person was stunning. To me, this felt the most like an actual comic book of video game.

The humor and writing really stand out as good. I found myself laughing a lot more than I thought at this movie (and that works for this film). The Marvel movies have always been bright and very light hearted at times, and the script really made that aspect shine through.

The two sides of the Hulk.

The hulk was one of the best parts of this movie along with the relationship between Captain America and Iron man (I hope they set up the Civil War story). However, if I had one flaw with The Avengers, it would be Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner . Honestly, I thought both previous actors (Bana and Norton) played the part better.

I know there is a ton more content to this film, but I should save that for when I get the film again on Blu Ray and have a fresh viewing.

Overall, The Avengers is a superhero film done right. Everything just seemed to mesh and fall right into place. However, I am not giving it a 10 just yet, because The Dark Knight Rises is coming out soon and I believe that it will be better than The Avengers.

9.0out of 10

"Better clench up, Legolas"

Tower Heist (2011)

Not the saving grace for Eddie Murphy but still alright

[7/10 · 14 July 2012]

Either they are running out of names for movies, or the creativity level is at an all time low.

Alan Alda plays a wealthy business man who illegally invests an entire group of hotel worker's money and loses it all. Ben Stiller, who plays Alda's highly efficient building manager, decides to become the modern day Robin Hood. Josh (Stiller) and his band of rag-tag misfits are going to steal $20 mil from the penthouse suite.

Is Eddie Murphy still funny?

While anyone can tell that he is past his prime, he managed to get a few chuckles out of me. However, the humor that resorts to using cuss words to be funny, just isn't my cup of tea. I'd rather the writing be clever and unique instead of trying to appeal to, what Hollywood thinks, is cool.

Then Ben Stiller holds it together right?

Yes. I've always thought that Stiller is a pretty good actor, both in funny and serious roles. What I found surprising about this movie is that it had overtones of seriousness. As an audience member, I really found myself caring for all the worker's lives that were ruined in a split second. I'm so glad that Stiller didn't go over the top with his character. He balanced out the loud Eddie Murphy.

Did anything stand out?

I thought that Matthew Broderick was probably the funniest character. He is so subtle about his humor and had some of the whittier lines. He can also also turn on the loud humor without being obnoxious. However, I did find great similarities between his crazed business man character here and the CPA he played in The Producers (2005).

Last thoughts:

This is a movie that surprised me on how above average it was. I really wasn't expecting much even with some big name actors, but that just goes to show star power is still worth something. Although highly predictable, Tower Heist still managed to produce a few laughs.

However, I felt that sometimes that the actors were too old. It felt like this could be the, Ben Stiller and Eddie Murphy, sequel to Grown-ups (2010).

Overall, Tower Heist can be a good time if you love the actors and their style of humor. The plot will be forgettable by next year but with this good cast, I think it deserves a chance.

"If anybody needs me, I'll be living in this box."

Brave (2012)

Not Pixar's Weakest, don't fall victim to the hate

[9/10 · 14 July 2012]

Pixar really can't do any wrong. Brave marks the 13th time a Pixar film has taken the top spot at the box office. That's everyone one of their films starting with Toy Story.

Brave tells the classic story of all teenagers and their relationships with their parents. Merida, a Scottish Princess, wants to be free to choose her suitor, much like in Aladin. Out of frustration, she turns to a witch who promises to change her fate and mother, Queen Elinor, who want's Merida to act more like a princess and spend less time shooting her bow. And everyone knows, you can't trust witches who promise you your greatest desires.

Quickly after casting a spell on her mother, Merida regrets her little mistake. However, something good does come out of the spell. Merida and Elinor get to spend quality time together, while actually taking the time the listen to each other under "unique circumstances".

Brave does a great job of capturing the dynamics of any stereotypical family. It showcases a whiney teenage girls, three reckless and spoiled sons, a controlling mother, and an oblivious father. And that is truly the magic of Pixar. While the movie is entertaining and has good themes for children, anyone can enjoy Brave.

After watching all of the trailers and a few TV spots for Brave, I was surprised of some of the plot turns. Now, I can't reveal anything here with out spoiling anything but I will say it was unexpected but like Pixar usually does, they make 'strange' work.

Some things to point out:

This is the first Pixar film with a female protagonist. I think that's a great step for Pixar industry.

I really enjoyed the commination of the great score with the soft-rock singles. It reminded me a little of Tarzan.

Merida's hair was amazing.

It was way funnier than I thought it was going to be.

Overall, Brave was brilliant. Definitely a good time. I can't talk about too much without spoling the movie.

It ranks at least in my top 3 Pixar films. Take your family to see it, but be prepared for cuteness overload.

9.5 of 10

"I don't want to get married, I want to stay single and let my hair flow in the wind as I ride through the glen firing arrows into the sunset."

Rock of Ages (2012)

A good time, if you let it be

[8/10 · 14 July 2012]

Were you a teenager in the 80's? If so, I'm sorry. It was a time of big hair and synthesizer music that can not ever be equaled. Rock of Ages is an homage to this unique time in history, and it was surprisingly good.

I have to admit I was skeptical when I first saw the trailers but my girlfriend convinced me to go see it (and she paid for dinner; I can't pass that up). We went to the Alamo Draft House and it is easy to say that we were the youngest people in the crowd. In fact, sitting right beside us were some slightly buzzed real house wives of Austin. I guess they were trying to relive their younger days.

Rock of Ages has a few different stories going on at once but the main focus is on a stage-frightened barback and a sweet girl girl from Oklahoma, both wanting to fulfill their dreams of becoming famous musicians. Along the way, the two encounter an interesting array of character which I will list off now.

-The bar owner who can't stop living in the past

-The bar owners right hand man who is young niave and will follow the bar owner to the ends of the earth

-A cheating politician

-The cheating politicians wife who is obsessed with closing down the club and cleaning the streets

-A sleazy music producer/manager

-A hard hitting reporter

and

-The diva rock star played by Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise was great. He played the stereotypical rock-star doped up on alcohol and surround by honnies. My opinion is that we, the public, my think he takes himself too seriously but judging by his roles in Tropic Thunder and now Rock of Ages, Mr. Cruise does have a sense of humor. Although, I'm not sure Katie would approve of the ass- less chaps, or maybe their into that sort of thing. Anyway, at one point in my life I have to say I was a Tom Cruise hater but now I have seen the light.

The two best parts of this film were the dance sequences and the music. I don't want to use this as a comparison because I think the show has gone downhill, but the mash-ups were reminiscent of Glee. The music along with the overly cheesy dance routines had the audience at my theater quietly singing along.

Another thing that surprised me was Russel Brand. Many people not that I am not a fan of his at all but he was so funny in this film. I guess I like him more when he doesn't write his own comedy.

If you are a guy and musicals aren't your forte, but your significant other insists on seeing one at least once a year, connivence your lady friend or boy friend (we don't judge here) to go see this film.

8.0 out of 10

"I' a stripper at the Venus Club.

I'm in a boy band.

You win."

Gears of War 3 (2011 Video Game)

Multiplayer makes up for average story

[9/10 · 14 July 2012]

The third and most anticipated Gears of War hit shelves late 2011. The steroid-laced macho-men, who are the Cogs, are back to fight the lambent and save humanity. I feel the need to put a disclaimer here; I am a huge Gears fan. However, I'm not sure Gears 3 lives up the the hype and standard of previous Gears games (at least in terms of single player).

The first thing I noticed when I booted this bad boy up was how detailed and beautiful it is to look at. I applaud the time and effort it must have taken to render this game. However, I would advise anyone who plays Gears 3 to install the game on their hard drive to make it run smoother. I noticed when some of the bigger monsters came on screen the frame rate slowed down slightly.

Many people say that the Gears of War games are not that deep and have a weak story. I thought differently for the first two games. Gears may not have had the most complex story, but I have always been compelled and invested in all the characters. However, in Gears 3, I think it's the story that holds the game back. For the first time in the Gear's world I felt uninvolved. The game doesn't focus on the main characters the whole time. I can't tell you how much I don't care about Jace. He is probably the flattest character in the whole series. When the game does focus on the main characters, like Dom, it feels like the Gears of old, which is a huge plus. Also, it does a great job of bringing the nostalgia of the first Gears game to the audience; I almost cried at one point.

Where the game stumbles is in the weak story telling. In a game this epic and on this huge of scale, some of the missions felt small, pointless, and repetitive. I never felt like I was saving the world and I never really had a sense of urgency.

All that being said, it is still a Gears game and the mechanics and gameplay are as solid as ever. As usual, the player needs to use the unique cover system to fight their way past the lambent and locust.

So, for the single player story mode I would give Gears 3 a rating of 8.0 out of 10. It's still a sold game but lacks the heart of the first two.

Multiplayer

The multiplayer is a huge part of the Gears of War games, helping to cement the longevity of Xbox live. Many people complained about the multiplayer in the second game, however, I thought it was fine. This time though, Gears of War 3 has its own dedicated servers to help with host issues. While this helps, it's still not perfect. There will be lag in about 1 in every 50 games, which is still a great improvement but slightly annoying.

The new beast mode is a great addition. However, it is not as robust as horde mode. The retro lancer now has a bayonet like spear on the end, great for charging people.

Also, I love how stunning the maps look and how each one has their own vibe.

Something really smart was making the team death match mode based on the number of re-spawns. I've noticed that more online players pick each other up when they are down, truly embracing the "brothers 'till the end motto".

Overall, the multiplayer is some the best times I've every had. I've spent more time in the Gears of War multiplayer than anywhere else.

The multiplayer gets a solid 10 out of 10 from me.

Therefore the average of both the single player and the multiplayer is a. . .

9.0out of 10

On a side note, I think that the Gears of War franchise has some of the best trailers ever. I've put them here for your viewing pleasure.

The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)

Great movie that won't stick in our memories

[8/10 · 14 July 2012]

Is it possible to forgive a man who has now seen the light? That's what I ask of you now. I, your humble reviewer, got a chance to see The Amazing-Spider Man for a second time. Only, this time it was in IMAX 3D and the last time I had been to the IMAX was in 4th grade on a class field trip. I know what you are thinking, "You mean to tell us you didn't see The Dark Knight or Avatar at the IMAX?!" Well, no. But, I hear you and those are on my list of shame, along with never seeing the Indiana Jones films. Jeez, I heard you gasp through the computer. Now, after basically destroying my reviewing credibility, I will try to redeem myself.

The best thing that I overlooked the first time I saw this film was the score. The music in this film takes the audience on such an emotional journey that if you pay attention to it, it will enhance the overall experience. I think the brilliance in the score is that it's very subtle. It's not constantly bashing us with a theme over and over again.

One of the things that I believe swayed my first review was my view as Andrew Garfield as Spider-Man. For some reason, I could not picture him playing the part and while I am still not completely sold on Garfield for the role of Peter Parker or as the Lizard says with great alliteration, "Poor Peter Parker", I do believe he is a great Spider-Man. His voice is perfect; he sounds like the Saturday morning cartoon. So, after finally giving Garfield a chance, I will say that he is better than I originally gave him credit for.

Since I did see it in IMAX 3D with my great friend over at The Brew (you can check out his review here), I feel an obligation to comment on it even if it's the same story with the 3D. If you are watching an action sequence it's very difficult to follow and often blurry at times. However, when the 3D is used right, for depth and landscapes, it's extremely effective, especially on a screen as large as an IMAX. There are sometimes, though, when Spider-Man looks very glossy. That's not something I noticed in normal 2D.

After reading many other reviews that say how poor or cheap the Lizard looks, I'm still not buying it. I think he looks good. The detail on his scales very textured and his facial expressions are priceless. During this second screening, some of the audience was actually chuckling at the Lizard. But, I think it was a good execution.

One thing that did bug me was the misleading marketing campaign where the audience was supposed to get the untold story of Spider-Man. That never happened.

But overall, after watching The Amazing Spider-Man for a second time at a different venue and with most of my preconceived notions gone, it was an excellent film. I think I knew that all along and just didn't want to say it.

So this time I will give it a

9.0 out of 10

"Crooooooooootch!"

O, and Emma Stone is still hot.

Snow White and the Huntsman (2012)

At least it's better than the other Snow White movie this year

[7/10 · 14 July 2012]

Snow White is back in theaters for a second time this year but is she the fairest of them all?

An extremely hot Evil Queen (Charlize Theron) seeks eternal life and beauty and overthrows kingdoms in the land with her dark magic. All of this, because women can hold grudges like no other. Only Snow White (Kristen Stewart), who is the purest of them all, can break the curse and stop the Queen. Yeah, yeah. I think we are familiar with the story of Snow White, especially with Mirror Mirror recently in theaters and Once Upon A Time taking over the television airwaves this year.

What you expected: Amazing special effects and an emotionless Stewart.

What you get: It's true. Most of the special effects are truly breathtaking, especially when the tone in grim. The film really captures the somber environment of the kingdom ruled by the Evil Queen. However, when the group travels to, what we can call, the Disney inspired version of Snow White, the effects look dated and fake. For the purposes of this film, I wish that stylistically it would have stayed away from the scenes that play to a younger audience. There could have been a better way for to portray a sanctuary without breaking up the film.

Your question: Can Kristen Stewart play a good Snow White and carry the film?

I usually don't pay attention to the criticism of Stewart and her emotionless Twilight role, but it carried over in this performance. Stewart was supposed to portray a truly pure princess. However, I rarely got the feeling that she was the 'chosen one' and could stop the Evil Queen. In fact, I got the feeling that many people in the audience were gunning for the Evil Queen. At one point, Snow White gives a speech towards the end of the movie to try to rally the troops. However, instead of delivering an inspiring speech, like in Independence Day, her loud voice has one level, awkward. Overall, I don't think Stewart gave the character enough innocence and kindness it would take to play Snow. Instead she gave off an emo/misunderstood vibe.

You Thought: Chris Hemsworth is going to play a kick-ass hunky Huntsman.

And you would not be wrong. Hemsworth does a good job playing this type-casted character. The Huntsman is the only character with any real depth that the audience can make a connection to or rally behind. Not to mention again that his is a plus for all the ladies in the crowd, with his large flexing muscles and long flowing hair. I mean, I've only heard those things about him; I didn't really notice. . .

Other Notes:

I really like that there was a sense of urgency to stop the Queen. It made her feel more evil because she is extremely cold-blooded and will stop at nothing to get what she wants. She conjures spells that are creepy, gross, and makes hairs curl.

There was a scene, however, where a character flops on the floor like a fish, which is completely laughable and takes the audience out of the experience. Truly some of the worst acting/direction I've ever seen in one contained scene.

I'm really glad with the direction they took the magic mirror. It was innovative the way the mirror came to life.

The ending just cuts off. For the audience members that did establish a connection with the characters, it would have been nice to take two minutes extra to wrap up the story. I'm not talking about a Return of the King type ending, but some ending would have been nice.

Conclusion:

Is it a great summer action movie? Yes

Is it Inception/Batman/LOTR quality and should you expect that? Definitely not.

Snow White and the Huntsman was a fun action film, with great special effects. I like the dark, imaginative environment, and felt engrossed in the overall experience, especially in the dark forest. However, Snow White gave a weak performance and the Huntsman is regrettably forgettable.

"I don't like killing girls.

I do!"

Big Miracle (2012)

A great story that fell victim to its audience

[7/10 · 13 July 2012]

This film is inspired by a true story and stars Fred, Wilma, and Bamm Bamm, three whales trapped under solid ice on their journey south.

If you are one of those people like me, who pretends to talk on their cell phones to avoid Greenpeace while walking down the street, than this film is not for you!

I'm just kidding . . . to an extent, because one of the flaws that I found with this movie is that it constantly berates the audience with its talk of Greenpeace, preserving the environment, and saving the whales. I know those arguments are at the film's core, but it didn't need to push it's political agenda that hard.

However, Big Miracle did do some things better than other movies in this genre. First of all, this is a family movie that did politics well. Every single plot string is tied to some political scheme or agenda and while most of that stuff if boring for children, I believe Big Miracle made it simple and funny enough without taking away any of the significance. That's something truly remarkable, in my opinion.

The second thing that the movie did well was portraying the native people of Alaska, who wanted to use the three trapped whales for food, in a positive light. The audience gets to hear the head captains of the town talk about how they need the food to survive and how they want their children to learn how to hunt, which was really cool. Then, after the media gets ahold of the whale story, they have to discuss how the rest of the world is going to look at them (if they decide to kill the whales) and what it means for the future of their town's survival. To me, that was the most interesting and important part of the movie.

The biggest flaw of this movie comes in the form of a story arch involving the grandchild of the most respected captain. This boy wants to leave Alaska and doesn't care much for the old customs of his grandfather. The film tries to show how he changes over time, after he gets emotionally involved with the whales, but I just didn't think it was smooth or believable. In fact, I think they could have left the kid out of the movie completely and it would have been better.

Now, on to the cast, which is both good and bad. Lets start with John Krasinski. He was by far the best actor in the whole film. He plays a genuinely nice reporter who first breaks the whale story. Drew Barrymore plays his ex-girlfriend, who is a political protester and an important part of Greenpeace. She raises hell at city meeting and is a nuisance for politicians. However, honestly, I felt that she was over the top and just really annoying at times. They do not put much make-up on her, which is a nice touch and makes her character more believable. You also have hot Kristen Bell who was awesome at first, as a LA reporter looking to break out, but the direction they took with her was so lame. And the last person I am going to mention is Ted Danson. I think he's a wonderful actor but he was just plain silly. My best guess is that they tried to play up their characters to appeal to the children. However, it was at the expense of quality acting.

Something positive that the movie did well was the whales. The special effects are amazing and all of the whales look life-like. To me, the technology used looks very similar to Jurassic Park, which I'm sad not more movies use.

Overall, Big Miracle was a touching story but the over the top feel doesn't set the right mood. However, if you want to learn more about the event, check out the videos below.