agblum Reviews

Jurassic World (2015)

At times Entertaining, at times Uneven.

[7/10 · 14 June 2015]

"Jurassic World" is the 4th movie in the "Jurassic Park" Series, and the first, since "Jurassic Park III" in 2001, and it takes part 22 years after the first "Jurassic Park", which came out in 22 years ago – in 1993. Like the other films, this one is led by an ensemble cast. Basic Set-up: Brothers Zach Mitchell (HS Age), played by Nick Robinson, and Gray Mitchell played by Ty Simpkins (Appears to be Pre-Teen to early Teen-Harley Keener in Iron Man 3) go to visit their Aunt Claire Dearing, played by Bryce Dallas Howard, who is the Operations Manager of "Jurassic World" a theme park of Real Dinosaurs on Isla Nublar in Costa Rica – first envisioned in the first movie by the character of John Hammond. Another main player is Owen Grady, played by Chris Pratt (Peter Quill/Star-Lord of "Guardians of the Galaxy" and Andy Dwyer of TV's "Parks and Recreation"), a Velociraptor expert and trainer. Like the previous movies, as you can imagine, things will go array with the Dinosaurs, and chaos ensues. Like the previous films, the Special Effects, particularly the Dinosaurs, are first rate. The cast, which is good mix of races, generally do a good job. The two young boys I thought were outstanding, not a surprised with Simpkins, who was I felt was also so in "Iron Man 3", 2 years back. While slow at the start, Bryce Dallas Howard improves as the movie goes goes on. Pratt, does admirably playing a character that is not at all a carbon copy of "Star Lord/Peter Quill" from "Guardians of Galaxy" which released last summer, heightened him to super stardom – And he got the role prior to "Guardian's" release. Overall, while at times the film is entertaining, it is also at times uneven, trying to do the dual stories of overall the Mitchell family aspect, involving the parent, and the dynamic of Howard character and her sister – the boys' mother, and the plot line of how things go array with the Dinosaurs in this installment. Both plot lines, particularly the family aspect, could have been developed more, and be executed more evenly. and there are a 1 or 2 moments which just didn't fit. With that said, it still entertains you a great deal of the time. It's an improvement over the last film the series, and overall I would rank it third behind the first one, and "The Lost World – Jurassic Park". 2 ¾ Stars out of 4 – 7 ½ out of 10 Stars.

Tomorrowland (2015)

A Wonderful Movie!

[9/10 · 30 May 2015]

"Tomorrowland", Co-Written and Directed by Brad Bird, was conceived based on the futuristic themed land at Disney theme parks. The movie has co-protagonists of Frank Walker, portrayed as an adult by George Clooney, and Casey Newton, portrayed by Britt Roberston. The movie starts by flashing back to 1964, where Frank as boy, it is revealed early on, likes to invent, visits the World's Fair in New York. Without spoiling any of the major plot, he ends up in Tomorrowland, a furtristic looking world. Flash ahead to present day, Casey is the daughter of a NASA Engineer, who is about to be out of job, as the launch pad in Cape Canaveral is about to be demolished, in a nod to recent stat of NASA. Casey like her Dad, and Frank, as is shown is quite smart, creative and talented herself. Long story short – I found the film quite entertaining, often magical, and can't recommend it enough. Britt Roberston is outstanding, and is Clooney and pretty much the rest of the cast. The visuals are more than good enough for the most part. Fellow Sci-Fans should get a kick of out the references to Science and Science Fiction in the film. The first say 15-20 minutes, may be slow, but then it picks up, and is a fun ride. I realize this movie has been getting some bad reviews, and while the movie isn't perfect, I think it is undeserved. One reason I heard is people are not sure what's it's about. To me it was obvious – It was about Hope and Optimism – which our world needs right now! 3 ½ out of 4 Stars – 9 out of 10 Stars!

Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

A Good Thrill Ride.

[8/10 · 17 May 2015]

"Mad Max: Fury Road", is the 4th film in the Mad Max Series, from Director George Miller, and the first to be released in 30 years. It takes part in a post-apocalyptic future,, where humanity's survivors are battling for life-saving and potential life resources such as gasoline and water. The movie stars Tom Hardy, replacing Mel Gibson in the title role in the previous movies as "Mad Max" and Charlize Theron as "Imperator Furiosa". I have heard that this film takes part in between the 2nd Film –"Mad Max: The Road Warrior", and the 3rd Film – "Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome". Prior to this, I had only seen the first film - "Mad Max", which I admit, I did not like, partially because there was practically no explanation that it was an post-apocalyptic setting, which I believe was explained in the next movie. Long story short, the action sequences – all in the form of action taking part in or around automobile chases, is indeed first rate. In terms of the story - I had heard you had not needed to see the others, but it would give you depth. My gut tells me that seeing the 2nd film, would have increased my enjoyment significantly, particularly as the film is not too Dialogue heavy in the about the first half of the film so. With that mind, the action sequences make it a fun thrill ride, and the actors do well with what is given. When I get a chance to see the other movies, I will certainly revisit this one, and it may improve. For now - 3 ¼ Stars out of 4 Stars – 8 ¼ out of 10 Stars.

Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

A Fun, Entertaining Ride!

[8/10 · 30 April 2015]

"Avengers: Age of Ultron" is the 11th film entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, that began with "Iron Man" in 2008. Joss Whedon who wrote and directed the first team up movie of the MCU - "The Avengers" in 2012, returned to do the same for the sequel, and as confirmed by all, barring a changing of minds, or a surprise return down the line. will be his swan song for Marvel. "The Avengers" is generally considered one of the best, if not the Best Superhero film of all time. The first trailer for the sequel suggested a much darker tone, while the trailers that followed showed the trademark Whedon humor he injected into the first one – indicative of his past work, ala his TV series - "Buffy the Vampire Slayer", "Angel", etc., would be there as well. While there is some dark tone to it, with some great moments when it goes in that direction, ultimately most of great parts of the movie for me were the great humorous one-liners, spread out practically amongst all the main players, and one or two non main players. Returning Avengers are Tony Stark – Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.), Captain America - Steve Rogers (Chris Evans), Thor (Chris Hemsworth) , The Hulk – Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo), Black Widow – Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansen) and Hawkeye – Clint Barton (Jeremy Renner). A number of their supporting players from other MCU movie figure prominently as well, and they are also joined by new comers – The Maximoff Twins – Pietor – Quicksilver (Aaron Taylor- Johnson), and Wanda – Scarlett Witch (Elizabeth Olsen), as wel1 as the Vision (Paul Bettany). The antagonist is the Robot "Ultron" (voiced by James Spader - Yes – The voice of Tony Stark's computer Jarvis – When you the see movie – all will be clear). In as nut shell – the movie is a mostly fun and entertaining for the around 2 ½ hour running time. It is well paced, so it never feels long. All the characters are given moments, and different story arcs are touched upon with each of them. Sometimes that does create a jumble, and if some were fleshed out more, while it would have sacrificed time for some of the other story arcs, I think it would have improved the movie. Having said that – In the end, while not as good as the original, it is an enjoyable, fun ride, and Whedon's great Dialogue, humorous and non-humorous, when it does hit, and it hits often - shines! 3 ¼ out of 4 Stars - 8 ½ out of 10 Stars.

Furious 7 (2015)

Good Fun, and A Wonderful Legacy for Paul Walker!

[8/10 · 2 April 2015]

"Furious 7" is the latest in "The Fast and The Furious" Franchise, whose production was halted due to the tragic death of Paul Walker, who played the co-lead, character of "Brian O'Conner" in the series, along with Vin Diesel's "Dominic Toretto". Reportedly less than half of Walker's scenes had been completed at the time of his passing. Through digital magic, Walker's two brothers, who closely resemble him, stepping in for him at points in the film, and re-writes, production then resumed, and now the film, Walker's last – is out. I hadn't seen one of movies at the time of I heard of Walker's passing. I watched all the previous shortly thereafter. While there are flaws, some cheesy Dialogue at times, etc., the movie to me are just guilty pleasures, simply meant for fun – And I really like or love each one. "Furious 7" is no different. Car chases,fight scenes, laugh out loud moments from Tyrese Gibson as "Roman" in particular, the theme of family, and Kurt Russell's "Mr. Nobody" is a great addition. Yes, there are some unbelievable moments, but it's fun, and you don't care. Without spoiling it - The exit for Walker's character is handled with class as reported. Will there be more? There is one aspect that is left open-ended, and the plan was for 10. I predict there will an 8th, or they will spin-off Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's character of "Hobbs", as has been a past rumored, and pick up that story line that was left open in that film. For this movie, a wonderful legacy for Paul Walker, May he rest in Peace – 3 ¼ out of 4 Stars – 8 1/4 out of 10 Stars.

The Divergent Series: Insurgent (2015)

For the Most Part-Unsatisfying

[7/10 · 19 March 2015]

"Insurgent" is the 2nd Movie in the "Divergent" Series based on the popular trilogy of dystopian future novels. I have read the first 2 books – Loved the first One, Liked the story of the 2nd one, but felt it wasn't written as well. I thought the first movie was not great, but solid. I came into this movie hoping that it would improve upon both the first movie and the 2nd book. For the most part – I was not satisfied. This movie boosts a Great Cast – Including Shailene Woodly, Miles Teller, and Kate Winslet. They and some of the rest of the cast do have good moments, but the acting isn't always consistently good from scene to scene. Maybe it's them, maybe it's the Director, maybe it's both. But more that that, I was hoping the story would be constructed better that it was in the book. From what I can remember from reading it, they changed some things around, but it generally wasn't for the better. The last section of the movie is uplifting, but I just feel the movie had so much promise and for the most part doesn't deliver. Maybe it will improve upon second viewing for me, right now I just feel mostly dissatisfied with it. Like a number of recent film series based on novels, the last book, "Allegiant" will be split into 2 movies, released in 2016 and 2017-I hope for better- 2 ½ out of 4 Stars, 7 out of 10 Stars.

Cinderella (I) (2015)

Not Outstanding, but a Charming Film

[8/10 · 14 March 2015]

"Cinderella" is the new live action version of the story from Disney, based on both the classic Animated Film and Novel. In a nutshell, the movie has a lot of charm, and some moral lessons for the younger viewers, and though not outstanding, enjoyable. The movie is not a musical like the classic animated film, telling it's story straight dramatically, being mostly family friendly with a PG rating. Lily James plays "Cinderella", with a lot sweetness, as you watch her title character keep her cheery disposition as she goes loss and a lot of trial. The film features a lot well know actors in the supporting cast, including "Game of Thrones" Richard Madden as the Prince, Cate Blanchett as Cinderella's Stepmother, and Helan Bonham Carter as the Fairy Godmother. There are a few moments in the film where I wish they would do another take of certain scenes– The acting isn't always consistently good from scene to scene, but as I mentioned, the film has a lot of charm about it, that you mostly forgive that. For kids it's wonderful. There is some adult flavor, but you need to go in accepting it's mostly a kids or family film, and you'll enjoy it. 3 out of 4 Stars - 8 out of 10.

Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014)

A Fun Movie!

[9/10 · 14 February 2015]

"Kingsman: The Secret Service" - Directed, and Co-Written by Matthew Vaughn, is a spy action comedy, based the comic book "The Secret Service". The movie centers on "Kingsman" secret Agent Harry Hart, played by Colin Firth, and his protégé Gatry "Eggsy" Unwin, played by Taron Egerton. The Kingsman are a secret spy agency, based in England. Hart, whose past history with Eggy's father, which is revealed at the start of the film, ends up recruiting the troubled Eggsy to try to become the latest Kingsman. The movie is a great tongue and cheek/often campy spy comedy! The movie turns serious, with a couple surprises when it needs to be, but returns to it's tone, without missing much of a beat The cast do an all around great job. Along with great performances by Firth and Egerton, Samuel L. Jackson is a hoot, as the villain "Richard Valentine", and the rest of the cast are great as well! As soon as you accept the tone and roll with it – A Fun Movie! 3 ½ out of 4 Stars, 9 ½ out of 10 Stars.

American Sniper (2014)

Very Effective and Entertaining!

[9/10 · 18 January 2015]

"American Sniper" is an auto-biographical film about the life of Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle, played by Bradley Cooper (also a co-producer) and Directed by Clint Eastwood (also a co-producer). Kyle was proclaimed the most lethal sniper in U.S. military history, having accumulated 160 confirmed kills out of 255 probable kills. The movie traces Kyle's life from his childhood in Texas, to meeting and marrying his wife Taya, played by Sienna Miller, and the birth, & moments of their marriage & 2 children, to his military service following 9/11. The movie portrays Kyle's father teaching him to be one to protect others. This theme plays throughout the film – specifically in Kyle's military service, in that prior to going home for good, he is motivated to finish the task of taking out an enemy sniper, possibly at the expense of the relationship with his wife and children. In short, I thought the movie was great. In earlier parts of the film, I though some of the Dialogue needed improvement, but following that, I have little complaint. I found Cooper's performance very effective. Maybe there could have been one or two heavy Dialogue scenes from his character to add more gravitas to the performance, but perhaps that was just the way the real life Kyle's personality was – And this would be more of reflection on the writing and other aspects of the movie, not Cooper's performance. If you read about the real life Kyle, he seemed to be a very complex individual, and some of his views may not totally vibe with many, including myself, but I feel this should not detract from his service, and certainly not from Cooper's performance in the movie. Sienna Miller I thought was also very effective as Taya, Kyle's wife – who sees that her husband's military experiences are changing him, and simply wants him home. In the end – the movie keeps you engaged and is very entertaining – 3 ½ out of 4 Stars – 9 out of 10.

Selma (2014)

Loved it!

[9/10 · 11 January 2015]

"Selma" tells the story of the Voting Rights Marchs from Selma, Alabama, to Montgomery, Alabama of 1965, led by among others, Famed Civil Rights Activist, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., played by David Oyelow. Even though the Civil Rights Act of 1964 ended Segregation and gave African- Americans the rights to vote, those right were being restricted, particularly in the state of Alabama. King, and other Civil Rights Activists were invited by the local civil and civic leadership to protest to repression. While King is the central figure, and the movie does some spend time on him and his wife Coretta Scott King's, played by Carmen Ejogo, relationship, and it's how it's effected by King's activism, the movie is not all a mini-biography o the late Dr. King's life at that point, and gives time to a number of the other prominent figures having do with the marches. As reported, the movie does indeed humanize King, perhaps as a metaphor that just as the way our country was flawed back then, Dr. King had his flaws as well. In the end, King is seen as the man who through sacrifices he and others made, endure to achieve the goal of the just cause of equal rights. I loved it – It was well shot, and well acted – you simply moved with it. Much credit to Director Ava DuVernay, and the production team, including the one and only Oprah Winfrey, who plays Civil Rights Activist Annie Lee Cooper in the film as well. Oyelowo, while performing Dr. King's speeches in the movie, doesn't try to do a perfect impression of the late Dr. King's voice (though that would have been fine if it had been the case), but does try to capture the physical movements, and powerful vocal style, and all around gives a very effective performance. I still have a few more I want to see, but for 2014 Releases – this is the best I have seen thus far – 3 ¾ out of 4 Stars, 9 ½ out of 10.

The Imitation Game (2014)

A Great Film!

[9/10 · 4 January 2015]

"The Imitation Game" is based on the true story of mathematician Alan Turing, played by Benedict Cumberbatch, who is recruited by the British Government to help crack Nazi Germany's enigma code, to discover planned attacks during World War II. The film tells the story of Turing, who is gay, and has to keep in secret, as it was a crime in Great Britain then, and the efforts of his fellow code breakers, including Joan Clarke, played by Keira Knightly. I think saying anything else involving plot would give major spoilers. Plain and simple – this is one of the best movies of 2014 that I have seen. Cumberbath's performance is Oscar worthy, and Knighty's I believe is worthy of a nomination. 3 ½ out of 4 Stars, 9 out of 10.

The Interview (II) (2014)

Laughed 2-3 Times, but for the most part - Stupid.

[6/10 · 2 January 2015]

It was about 8 days post release, but I did finally see the movie the hackers and or the North Korean Government never wanted us to see – "The Interview" - The satire comedy, starring Seth Rogen (also Co-Director and Co-Writer) and James Franco. Franco plays Dave Skylark, host of the talk show "Skylark Tonight" and Rogen plays Skylark's producer and friend Aaron Rapoport. The show is centered around celebrity interviews and gossip. Long story short, word comes to Skylark that North Korean leader and Dictator Kim Jong-Un is a fan of his show. Rapoport wants to do more "serious" stories, so when Skylark suggests trying to arrange an interview with Jong-Un, after about a minute of persuasion, Rapoport says yes. The interview is arranged, which will be scripted by Jong- Un's Communist Government, to take place in North Korea. As you probably read or saw in the trailers, Skylark and Rapoport are contacted by U.S. Government Agents, to recruit the two to use this opportunity to assassinate the dictator, which via a means (will save the spoiler here) will not trace back to them. Putting aside what a big new story/controversy, the previous decision to not release this film by Sony, as the big name theater chains opted not to, fearing threat of violent attack, to Sony's decision to release it in a number of smaller theaters, that were willing to show it, and on-line for a fee - How was the movie? I expected to be very stupid and or silly. I admit, I laughed 2 or 3 times, but for the most part, it is what I expected – I found it stupid. A lot of the jokes and characters are cliché. Franco's character is very over the top. Yes – It is a satire, but I think it was overdoing it a bit, and there are small spots in the movie, particularly for Rogen's character, where I feel it is not trying to be a satire, so it needed more consistency there. I liked Franco in Rami's Spider-Man movies as Harry Osborne. As I wrote, his character in this movie I found for the most part, a bit too much. There was one bit in the movie which is incredibly predictable, and just isn't funny in the end, due mostly to it being predictable. Again, I did laugh a few times, so it could have been a lot worse, but I can't say it is a great comedy. Mel Brooks, the famous Director/Writer/Actor of satire and spoof movies was recently asked about the controversy surrounding the movie on Jimmy Kimmel, I believe prior to the decision to go ahead and release it, and joked "I waited until Hitler was dead", referencing the Comedy "The Producers", the first movie he ever directed, and won a Screen writing Oscar for it, released in 1967, eventually turned into a Broadway Musical decades later, which involves a couple of Broadway Producers trying to make a musical about Hitler. I think Brooks could have taken the concept of "The Interview", and made a very funny movie, or if it was made as a Black Comedy, in the vain of Stanley Kubrick's "Dr. Strangelove", which satirized cold war fears, I think it would have been more effective. I am glad I saw it, as to not let these Hackers/North Korea, etc., dictate what I can and can't see (I do respect all points of view - OK – end of political comment here), but as for the movie itself – for the most part – not very good – 2 out of 4 Stars – 6 out of 10.

Into the Woods (2014)

Charming, Funny and Great Music!

[9/10 · 30 December 2014]

"Into the Woods" is the movie adaption by Disney, of the Broadway musical by Stephen Sondheim, that mixes characters from different well- known Grimm Brother's fairy tales including "Cinderella", "Jack and the Beanstalk", "Little Red Riding Hood" and "Rapunzel", in a plot where a childless couple, - A Baker, played by James Cordan, and his wife, played by Emily Blunt, want to end a curse, placed by a vengeful witch, played by Meryl Streep . Also Included in the cast are other well know actors and actresses, including Anna Kendrick as Cinderella, Chris Pine as Cinderella's Prince, Johnny Depp as The Wolf, Tracey Ullman as the Mother of Jack, of Jack and the Beanstalk, and Christine Baranksi as Cinderella's Stepmother. For fans of the original play – It was reported ahead of time, and approved by Sondheim - Disney did make some plot changes to make the film more family friendly. As I am not familiar with the original show, and I could not judge it against that, and would try to do it apart from the show anyway. What I did see was a charming, and at times funny movie, with great music. The 2nd half does get a good deal dark, changing the tone of the first half. If you understand the point the story is trying to make, you accept the tone change. The whole cast, known and not well known, can all sing. In the end, I enjoyed it very much, and it's a good movie for taking a whole family to see (It is Rated PG for thematic elements, fantasy action and peril, and some suggestive material.). 3 ½ out of 4 Stars, 9 out of 10.

Whiplash (2014)

Makes You Think, and Great Performances from Teller and Simmons

[9/10 · 29 December 2014]

The fictional story of "Whiplash" is that of 19 year-old Jazz Drummer student Andrew Nieman, played by Miles Teller. Nieman is a student at the fictional "Shaffer Consevatory" in New York, the top music school in the U.S. Nieman aspires to become one of the drummer "greats" and ends up in the class of conductor Terrence Fletcher, played by J.K. Simmons. As the movie progresses, Fletcher is revealed to have display both verbal and physical abuse in his teaching to Nieman and other students. Despite this, Nieman is determined to please Fletcher is his quest for greatness. Both Teller, and Pre-Oscar Nominations Announcement, presumed Favorite Simmons for Best Supporting Actor, both give great performances. At times I rooted, loathed and then rooted again for Teller's character, as his own morals and values are questionable at points in the film. The question of how far is too far for a teacher to push a student, and a student to push his or herself is there, and the movie does make you think. As I heard, the last 15 minutes or so are something, and there is one surprise moment earlier in the film, that you just don't see coming, that really shocks you. In the end, while not the best, it is one of the better films I have seen this year, and I will want a repeated viewing to judge it further. For now - 3 1/2 out of 4 Stars (The ½ Star for Teller's and Simmons's performances and the last 15 or so minutes), 9 out of 10.

Unbroken (I) (2014)

A Very Good Tribute to a True American Hero!

[8/10 · 28 December 2014]

"Unbroken" is the true story USA Olympian and World War II Prisoner of War Survivor Louis "Louie" Zamperini, portrayed wonderfully in the movie by Jack O'Connell, based on the 2010 non-fiction book by Laura Hillenbrand "Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption." The film also marks the Directorial Debut for Academy Award Winning Actress, and Humanitarian Angelina Jolie. The movie traces the story of Zamperini being bullied in childhood, as a child of Italian immigrants, to his rise as a Track Star in High School, leading to him becoming an Olympian, to his service in the US Air Force in World War II, where he was eventually captured by the Japanese, and was imprisoned in different prisoner of war camps. Zamperini must overcame horrible torture and abuse by his captors to survive until war's end. The movie has been receiving mixed reviews. While I won't say it is a 4-Star Masterpiece, and I could think of what one or two things that could have made it more effective - but I liked it very much. I think the movie is a Very Good Tribute to a True American Hero. Certainly applause should go to all involved with the film for putting Zamperini's story on screen. Considering the subject matter, and the fact that it is her first time Directing, I believe Jolie deserves some praise. I am not saying she deserves a Best Directing Oscar, or the Film deserves a Best Picture Oscar, but I can say this – I was moved at film's end. 3 ¼ out of 4 Stars – 8 ½ out of 10.

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (2014)

The Last 3rd of the Movie is Funny and Touching!

[7/10 · 26 December 2014]

"Night of the Museum: Secret of the Tomb" is the 3rd and last entry in the "Night of the Museum" series, that began in 2006, with all 3 films with Ben Stiller in the lead, as "Larry", the night watchman for the Museum of Natural History in New York, whose exhibits, including a number of historical figures, such as President Theodore Roosevelt, played by the now late Robin Williams, come to life at night, due to the magic tablet of Ahkmenrah. This movie's plot is focused that tablet. The movie starts in 1938, as with discovery of the tablet by a young boy. Flash ahead to present date - the tablet which is Gold in color, is now turning Green, and the exhibits start to display strange behavior for them. The first movie completely took place in New York, the 2nd took us to the "Smithsonian" in Washington D.C., and the plot drives this final entry to London, to the "British Museum". I found the first 2/3rds of the movie mostly ho hum. The final 3rd had some good laughs, including a very funny sequence where a couple of celebrities playing themselves make a surprise cameo, and there are touching moments as all comes to a conclusion. There are couple of scenes where Robin Williams's has lines that are poignant, and sadly appropriate, in what turned out to be his final live action role. It's as if he was bidding us all a sweet farewell. Kids and the Kid in all us should like the movie just fine. The adult part of me – the last 3rd is worth it. 2 ½ out of 4 Stars.

Wild (I) (2014)

Could have been Better - But Good.

[8/10 · 24 December 2014]

"Wild" is based on the true story, told in the Novel - "Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail" by Cheryl Strayed. It tells the story of Strayed, played by Academy Award Winner Reese Witherspoon, who in 1995, takes a more than thousand mile hike alone along the Pacific Crest Trail – which include parts of California, Oregon, Washington State, and terminating at the US-Canada border. Strayed has decided to pursue the journey to heal herself following - including - the death of her mother, divorce, and heroin addiction. We learn Strayed's story through flashback as she goes through trials of the hike as well. While I can't say the movie is as good as I feel it could have been (I have not read the book if your wondering), it mostly keeps you interested, and Witherspoon has her moments, in what is a role that is getting her Oscar buzz. It's a movie I will see again, and it may improve for me. For now – Good, not Great – 3 out of 4 Stars.

Annie (2014)

Not a Total Mess - Music is Mostly Good and Some Good Humor

[7/10 · 21 December 2014]

"Annie" is a modern day retelling of the acclaimed Broadway Musical and 1982 musical film based on the show, which was based on the 1924 Comic Strip "Little Orphan Annie" which in the original show and movie, takes part during the Great Depression, telling the story of Orphan Annie - a pre-teenage hoping for a return of her parents, who disappeared after they left her on the steps of of an orphanage as a baby. In this version, which again takes place in the modern day, it is revealed in the early part of the film that Annie, played by Quvenzhané Wallis (Academy Award Nominee for the "Beasts of Southern Wild") was left as a baby at a restaurant by her parents, and is now a foster kid, under the care of Miss Hannigan, played by Cameron Diaz. The Billionaire character "Daddy Warbucks" of the classic story, has been replaced by the character of "Will Stacks", played by Jamie Foxx (Academy Award winner for "Ray"), who is also a Billionaire from his cell phone business, and is running for Mayor of New York City. So – leading up to this film, the predicted expectations were of gloom and doom, presumably I think because this version does not take place in the original time line, and because some people's now negative views (not mine) towards Actor/Rapper Will Smith, who co-produced the film with among others, his wife, Actress Jada Pinkett Smith, and Rapper and Business Mogel Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter, whose sampled one of the Musical's more populars songs "It's a Hard Knocked Life" in his hit song "Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)". So what did I think – While I admit – the movie does became a mess to a great deal, it is not a total mess, and could have been a lot worse. A lot of songs that many of us love are there and performed well by the cast, some with variations, some of which are understandably, and some which may have probably weren't necessary. There are some new songs as well, including the very touching "Who am I?" - sung by Diaz, Foxx and Wallis's characters in the later part of the film. Some of the modern day jokes, just some of the humor in general works well, and some falls flat. Kids should like this version of "Annie" just fine. Adults - I think most who are fans of the original are going to be annoyed by it. I myself am I fan of the Broadway show and 1982 Movie. While I obviously didn't love this version myself, again, While it does become a mess to a great deal,it's not a complete one. My rating is for the music, and some of the humor – 2 ½ out of 4 Stars (The ½ star is for the previously mentioned new song "Who am I?").

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (2014)

A Really Great Movie, to end a Very Good Trilogy!

[9/10 · 17 December 2014]

"The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies" concludes "The Hobbit" Trilogy – 3 Movies based on 1 Book, a prequel to "The Lord of The Rings" Trilogy of books, made into 3 movies prior to the Prequel Trilogy – The Books all written by J. R. R Tolken, all the films Directed by Director Peter Jackson. The movie picks up where the last one - "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" left off - with the Dragon "Smaug", voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch, about to attack the city of Laketown, after his departure from the Lonely Mountain, now reclaimed by the Dwarfs, led by "Thorin", played by Richard Armitage. The Dwarfs have been aided by among others, the Hobbit "Bilbo Baggins", played by Martin Freeman, the Wizard "Gandalf the Grey", played by Sir Ian McKellan (reprising his role from the LOTR Trilogy), and Elves "Legolas", played by Orlando Bloom (also reprising his role from the LOTR Trilogy), "Tauriel", played by Evangeline Lily, and Lakestown resident "Bard the Bowman", played by Luke Evans. Overall – I enjoyed the movie very much. The Visual Effects and Cinematography are wonderful. The Battle scenes are a joy. Emotions are often stirred, by great acting, particularly in the love triangle relationship of Lily's "Tauriel", Dwarf "Kili", played by Aidan Turner, and Bloom's "Legolos". Other highlights for the acting would be the journey the character of "Thorin" takes, as well Freeman and McKellan's performances of "Bilbo" and "Gandalf" the Grey respectively, continuing to fight to bring everyone together for the battle that centers the 2nd Half of the Movie. Luke Evan's also gives a great performance as "Bard the Bowman" - a man trying to save his family, and lead his townspeople at the same time, as well as attempting to keep the peace by all to avoid War during the 1st half of the movie. There are a few moments that maybe could have been improved, but it doesn't hurt much for the overall enjoyment. I thought the first movie, "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" was alright, and I really liked "The Hobitt: The Desolation of Smaug". So – a really great movie to end a very good trilogy – 3 ½ out of 4 Stars.

Maleficent (2014)

A Nice, Charming Movie

[9/10 · 14 December 2014]

"Maleficent" is a live-action re-imaging of "Sleeping Beauty", that like the Broadway Musical, "Wicked" based on "The Wizard of Oz," tells the story from the perspective of the villain or antagonist – in this case Maleficent, played by Angelina Jolie. Without going into detail, the first 1/3rd of the movie chronicles the character of Maleficent's background, and how she came into contact with Stefan, played by Shartlo Copley, who goes onto to father of Sleeping Beauty herself, Aurora, played by Ellen Fanning. That portion of the movie shows what drives Maleficent to act in the manner in which she does, and in telling it from the perspective of her background, empathy is created for her. Overall, I enjoyed the movie very much, and found it very charming. Angelia Jolie plays the character very well, and the rest of the cast pretty much follows suit. The Visuals Effects while not always perfect, for the most part of well done. It is not outstanding, but for fans of the story, and if you have any affinity for fantasy in general – It's a nice movie. 3 ¼ out of 4 Stars.

Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014)

Marginal Thumbs Up for Acting and Visuals

[7/10 · 14 December 2014]

"Exodus: Gods and Kings", Directed By Ridley Scott is the latest version of the Biblical story of Moses and the Exodus of the Hebrews/Jews from Egypt. I'll say what I said when I reviewed "Noah", released earlier this year: A Movie is not a Documentary. While we would like a movie based on events that happened, or believed to have happened (depending on your beliefs in this case) to be the truth or as close to it as possible. In the end a movie is meant to entertain, while a Documentary is meant to give all the facts. Obviously it's impossible to do a documentary on The Exodus from Egypt or any other Biblical Story – We only know what is in the Bible, and Legends surrounding it. For all that I have learned to date of the story - If your looking for a straight forward version – You'll simply going to be disappointed. Liberties are taken with the story. Is Scott's movie entertaining? To a Point - Yes. Christian Bale is simply one of the best actors today in my opinion, and he give a great performance as Moses. His Moses is confident at the start of the film, before his origins are revealed. When his origins are revealed to him – he immediately questions to the validity of it, and his faith in how events play out, is a theme throughout the movie. The rest of the cast generally does a good job as well. The visuals for the most part are also a highlight.

I was very much engaged during the 1st half of the movie. During the 2nd, at times, I wasn't as much, as I was trying to role with the changing aspects of how the story goes or has been portrayed in the past. Also – Not completely, but at times, the emotional relationship between characters could have been heightened.

If you can remove yourself from the Biblical story – Take the Movie as it is – Not saying it's easy - Not Great, but at times a good, engaging movie – particularly again, for the acting and visuals. Marginal Thumbs Up - 2 1/2 out of 4 Stars.

The Theory of Everything (2014)

Very Engaging!

[8/10 · 29 November 2014]

"The Theory of Everything" tells the story of physicist Stephen Hawking, played by Eddie Redmayne. The movie covers the love story of Hawking and literature student Jane Wilde, played by Felicity Jones, coinciding with Hawking rise to prominence, for his scientific theories to the world's birth. The movie portrays Hawking's changing of views on the subject, coinciding with his diagnosis of motor neuron disease related to Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis lateral sclerosis (ALS), a condition that has progressed over the years, and it effects on his marriage to Wilde. Redmayne gives a great performance, as does Wilde – Oscar nominations are likely to come. Overall, the movie does keep you very engaged. It's not a perfect 10 – Perhaps at the start, you could get a little bit more incite into how Hawking came to be interested in his field of study. The protagonists romance is charming at the start, andthe movie is effective in keeping you engaged as the story progresses. 3 ¼ out of 4 Stars.

St. Vincent (2014)

A Very Entertaining Movie

[9/10 · 23 November 2014]

St. Vincent is a comedy film, starring Billy Murray, as Vincent MaKenna, a drunk, race-track gambling, strip-club going war veteran, who ends up baby-sitting his next door neighbor single mom Maggie's, played by Melissa McCarthy, 12 year-old son Oliver, played by Jaeden Lieberher. Maggie and Oliver are adjusting to life after the recent split of Maggie and her husband. Vincent takes Oliver to the track, bars, strip clubs, etc., and also trains him in defending himself to bullies at his new, ironically, catholic day school. Vincent, as the film progresses is revealed to be at often times both to a funny, loathed, and sympathetic character. Both he and Oliver help to mature each other at points during the film. For the most part this is a good movie. Bill Murray give an outstanding performance, as do the other 2 leads, McCarthy, this time in a not so comedic role for her, and newcomer child actor Lieberher. Sometimes it is frustrating because you don't know exactly why Vincent is they way he is. Much of that is revealed at the film's climax, but there is still a question or two. That said - very entertaining – 3 ½ out of 4 Stars.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1 (2014)

For the Most Part - MockingJay Soars!

[9/10 · 21 November 2014]

"The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1" is third installment in the Hunger Games Movie Series, based on the popular young adult trilogy of novels. As per the title, the 3rd novel is being split into 2 movies, ala recent other young adult novel series last installment being split in two movies. As someone who has read the books, I felt there was more than enough material to justify two movies. The movie picks up where the last one – "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire" left off, with protagonist Katniss Everdeen, played by Jennifer Lawrence, living in District 13, after being liberated from the Arena by the Rebellion. District 13 President Alma Coin, played by Julianne Moore & former Game Head, revealed as a Rebel at the end of Catching Fire, Plutarch Heavensbee, played by Phillip Seymour Hoffman, want Katniss to literally be the MockingJay, the face of the revolution. Katniss is still mad over the failure to rescue Peeta, by Josh Hutcherson, from the Arena, but as one would expect, she eventually acquiesces with a couple of conditions. Jennifer Lawrence is once again outstanding as ever playing Katniss. In the last movie, Jena Malone was the scene stealer as Tribute Johann Mason. This movie it would be Natlie Dormer, as Cressida, the Director of filmed propaganda pieces, that Katniss has agreed films to help spur on the rebellion. In her fairly brief scenes, she portrays a power and confidence in her character. Elizabeth Banks, returning as Effie Trinkett is also a stand out, and Woody Harrelson, also returning as Haymitch Abernathy continue his great performance in the series. For the most part I liked it, particularly the mending of scenes in the book in one of the final sequences in the movie, which effectively build tension, and other variations of things in the book. My rating may go up on second viewing, for now - 3 ¼ stars out of 4.

Big Hero 6 (2014)

Good Messages to Young People and a Lot of Fun

[9/10 · 15 November 2014]

Walt Disney Studio's New Animated Movie "Big Hero 6" is based on the Marvel Comic of the Same name. It tells the story of Hiro Hamada (voiced by Ryan Potter), a 14 Year-old genius, living in the fictional futuristic city of San Fransokyo (A hybrid of San Francisco and Tokyo), who spends time participating in back alley robot fights. Hiro and his older brother Tadashi (voiced by Daniel Henney), also a genius, who is a college student, parents are deceased, and they are raised by their Aunt Cass (voiced by Maya Rudolph, of Saturday Night Live Fame). Tadahsi, in order to try to try to get his brother to use his talent for something other than robot fights, takes him to the robotics lab at his University (Where his age will not restrict him from applying), and introduces him to his friends - GoGo Tomago (voiced by Jamie Chung), Wasabi (voiced by Damon Wayans, Jr.), Honey Lemon (voiced by Génesis Rodríguez) and Fred (voiced by T.J,. Miller), as well as Baymax (voiced by Scott Adsit), a personal health care robot Tadashi created. I don't want to go into too much as to spoil the plot, but in a nutshell, a tragic event spurs the plot forward, as Hiro uses Baymax to try to solve the mystery, and the Superhero team eventually forms up. Overall I like it. The film plays has major themes of dealing with loss (Parents and Guardians be warned if you think your kids won't be emotional enough to handle that – It is rated PG), and using your Brain. I like that aspect of it, sending positive messages to kids, comparable to "Wreck It Ralph" which had the theme that's it's OK to be different. The only major knock I could give it, is I would liked a little bit more time on the supporting players in the movie to begin with. Other than that, a fun ride, with some good laughs, a lot coming from Baymax's programmed robotic personality. 3 ¼ out of 4 Stars.