Avengers: Endgame

We are rapidly approaching the summer film season--not quite there, however close enough to give us a taste of those films with the release of "Avengers: Endgame". As with the previous films of this franchise, this will give the audience what they expect out of this conclusion--replete with adventure, humor and several twists and turns in which to entertain.

 

Adrift in space with no food or water, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) sends a message to Penny Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) as his oxygen supply starts to dwindle. Meanwhile, the remaining Avengers--Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), Captain America (Chris Evans), Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner), Rocket (Bradley Cooper), Ant-Man (Paul Rudd) and Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo)--must figure out a way to bring back their vanquished allies for an epic showdown with Thanos (Josh Brolin)--the evil demigod who decimated the planet and the universe. These fractured Avengers work to compel the remaining Avengers to take one final stand in Marvel Studios' grand conclusion to twenty-two films.

 

Others to round out the cast are Don Cheadle as James Rhodes/War Machine, Benedict Cumberbatch as Doctor Strange, Brie Larson as Captain Marvel, Chadwick Boseman as T'Challa/Black Panther, Todd Holland as Peter Parker/Spider-Man, Karen Gillan as Nebula, Zoe Saldana as Gamora, Evangeline Lilly as The Wasp and Chris Pratt as Quill.

 

This was directed by two directors that are quite familiar with this genre, if not this franchise, Anthony Russo and Joe Russo ("L.A.X. 2194" (TV movie) '94, "Pieces" '97, "Welcome to Collinwood" '02, "You, Me & Dupree" '06, "Courtroom K" (TV movie) '08, "The Council of Dads" (TV movie) '11, "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" '14, "Captain America: Civil War" '16, "Avengers: Infinity War" '18) plus TV and shorts. As previously mentioned, these directors are familiar with this franchise, so the ability to direct these actors was fairly easy considering they were playing the same characters. Even with this observation, this was still powerfully staged and paced probably because they did know the characters well. If you like this brand of directing, their "Cherry" is in pre-production as of now. As with the directors, this was written by familiar writers to the franchise as well, Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely ("The Life and Death of Peter Sellers" (teleplay) '04, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" '05, "You Kill Me" '07, "The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian" '08, "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" '10, "Captain America: The First Avenger" '11, "Pain & Gain" '13, "Thor: The Dark World" '13, "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" '14, "Captain America: Civil War" '16, "Avengers: Infinity War" '18) plus TV, based on the Marvel comics by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. Not only are these two team writers familiar with this franchise, but with the 'comic book' film realm as well. Certainly big-budget films are their bread and butter, but it would be interesting to see them write a screenplay that is smaller in scale. Although this was handled well--movement, photography, stunts, visuals, etc., I believe, because of the massive amount of characters on the screen, it became a bit too much on the screen, and therefore became a little distracting. However, as the film progressed, it became absolutely captivating making valuable use of the characters at hand. The visual effects predominantly designed by ILM (Industrial, Light & Magic), Double Negative and Weta Digital were, as usual, seamless.

 

Even though this is the end of this franchise, we must remember the quote by Dr. Seuss: "don't cry because it's over, smile because you saw it". There are some twists and turns to peak your interest, and it does leave us with a bittersweet ending, but it was a good run. And who knows, it does kind of leave you with an open ending, however, it would be a stretch to continue this. You must see this on the big screen since it's in a nifty IMAX and Super 70 Panavision format. Grab the popcorn and enjoy!

 

Out of 4 Stars: 3.5                                  Rated: PG-13                                    181mins.

 

After

As with the end of most dead zones in a film season, we have films that aren't bad, however not great either. Rites of passage films have been a familiar Hollywood staple, and with that they have a tendency to be predictable. But when I saw my first trailer of "After", I felt it wouldn't be great, but I felt it would have potential, and that it did.

 

Based on Anna Todd's novel, "After" follows Tessa Young (Josephine Langford), a dedicated student, dutiful daughter to Carol (Selma Blair) and loyal girlfriend to her high school sweetheart, Noah (Dylan Arnold), as she enters her first semester in college. Armed with grand ambitions for her future, her guarded world opens up when she meets the dark and mysterious Hardin Scott (Hero Fiennes Tiffin), a magnetic, brooding rebel who forces her to question all she thought she knew about herself and what she wants out of life.

 

Others to round out the cast are Inanna Sarkis as Molly, Peter Gallagher as Ken Scott, Hardin's father, Swen Temmel as Jace, Shane Paul McGhie as Landon Gibson, Jennifer Beals as Karen Gibson, Landon's mother, Samuel Larsen as Zed and Khadijha Red Thunder as Steph.

 

This was staged and appropriately paced by director, Jenny Gage ("All This Panic" (Documentary) '16, "Lenny" (TV movie) '18). Although this filmmaker's directing skills were fairly straight forward without many nuances, it was still solid in getting her actors to emit the emotions they needed to portray in order to be convincing. She will undoubtedly receive more work. It was written and adapted by Susan McMartin ("Mr. Church" '16) plus a ton of TV. It seemed a bit long-in-the-tooth even though it was only an hour and forty-six minutes. I realize that it takes some time for Hardin and Tessa to get to know one another, however the way the script unfolded, it just seemed as though their courting took forever. They're extremely different in persona, but that, I'm sure, was purposed--you know, opposites attract. Their chemistry was complimentary even though they have opposite straits, but they were both easy to watch because of the challenge they had in getting to know one another. Considering the limited experience of McMartin, this was certainly a solid script, and the fact that the storyline isn't exactly original, this was executed rather well. One thing that has helped this writer is the fact that she has a plethora of TV to hone her craft, and with this, it has served her well. Even with the element of predictability, with the way this evolved, it would be interesting to see what she writes next.

 

If you're a hopeless romantic, this will a film for you. And even if you're not, the writing and directing will be enough to allow one to feel there is potential here. Certainly, if because of time restraints or if one has kids, you could wait for Netflix or renting this film, since it's a small romantic drama. The film has potential even though there is a bit slowness to it. You be the judge.

 

Out of 4 Stars: 2.5                                     Rated: PG-13                                     106mins.

 

Penguins

 As Earth Day approaches, we can always depend on yet, another documentary from Disneynature to fulfill our yearning for a better planet. From "Earth" to "Oceans" to "African Cats" to "Bears", we are offered a breathtaking expose photographed exquisitely in order to teach us all about our planet in an effective, yet entertaining way. So now in the offing we are given "Penguins" to further our lessons about the planet in which we live.

 

Disneynature's all-new feature film, "Penguins" is a coming-of-age story about an Adelie penguin named Steve who joins millions of fellow males in the icy Antarctic spring on a quest to build a suitable nest, find a life partner and start a family. None of it comes easily for him, especially considering he's targeted by everything from killer whales to leopard seals, who unapologetically threaten his happily ever after. From the filmmaking team behind "Bears" and "Chimpanzee", this film opens in theaters in time for Earth Day 2019 which is actually on 4-22-19.

 

This was exquisitely and tastefully directed by Alastair Fothergill ("Deep Blue" '03, "Earth" '07, "African Cats" (co-dir.) '11, "Chimpanzee" '12, "Bears" '14, "Monkey Kingdom" (co-dir.) '15, "Blue" (co-dir.) '18) plus TV and a video, and Jeff Wilson (TV documentaries). What truly makes this documentary as genuine as it is, is that Fothergill is a documentarian in the purest sense--they are the only genre he creates which we are the victors of this knowledge. Antarctica is the most grueling, yet beautiful place on the planet, yet these directors, photographers and their team go out there and spend a plethora of time--years in most cases to capture the best shots in order to tell their story so we can learn more about the subject matter they are conveying to their audiences--in this case, penguins. The narration writing is by David Fowler ("Born in China" (documentary) '16, "Growing Up Wild"  (documentary) '16, "Welcome to the Circle" '17) plus a short. While documentary writing is this writer's forte, he has written the 'normal' screenplays as well, and he as adept with one as with the other. As opposed to the other Disneynature documentaries, this not only as the typical narration, but uses a voice-over for what we could expect what Steve is processing in his mind. Both narration and the voice-over of Steve are perfectly portrayed by actor Ed Helms. He has the perfect 'voice' of Steve--the tonality of the actor's voice simply fits that of Steve. The one documentary I can akin this film to is that of "March of the Penguins" '05, narrated by Morgan Freeman and is about the life and times of the Emperor penguin. This film chronicles the Adelie penguin. It will be interesting to see Fowler's next project "Dolphin Reef" which has been completed and surely will be released soon. This is truly a must see. The actual stars of this are the photographers namely cinematographer Rolf Steinmann and principle photography by Sophie Darlington, Ted Giffords, Mark Smith and others.

 

Other than the breathtaking photography done in a nifty IMAX format, the aspect one should take from this is the fact these penguins, once they find their life partner, they mate for life, which is something we should reflect on since people today divorce at the drop of a hat. And with as much as the penguins go through in such an unforgiving landscape, one might think they would give up on each other out of survival, but they truly stick together. Amazing! See this on the big screen because it will lose everything on a 50 incher.

 

Out of 4 Stars: 4                                             Rated: G                                        76mins.

 

Breakthrough

As Easter approaches, we are barraged with spiritual and inspirational films aplenty. Certainly this would be the most advantageous time to release them, garnering the maximum profit in order to have the funds to produce more. In viewing "Breakthrough", we can witness God's power and mercy depicted in order to save a 14-year-old boy.

 

"Breakthrough" is based on the inspirational true story of one mother's unfaltering love in the face of impossible odds. When Joyce Smith's (Chrissy Metz) adopted son John (Marcel Ruiz) falls through the icy Lake St. Louis in Missouri, all hope seems lost considering he is oxygen deprived for 20 minutes. But as John lies lifeless, Joyce refuses to give up, even though others do. She then marches into the trauma room, after a failed code, and starts praying loudly that God would breathe life back into John. All of a sudden John's pulse returns, but he is a long way from recovery if he ever does. Joyce's steadfast belief inspires those around her including her husband, Brian (Josh Lucas), her friend Cindy Reiger (Rebecca Staab), her pastor, Jason Noble (Topher Grace), and others, to continue to pray for John's recovery, even in the face of every case history and scientific prediction. This is an enthralling reminder that faith, prayer and love can create a mountain of hope, and sometimes even a miracle.

 

Others to round out the cast are Dennis Haysbert as Dr. Garrett, Sam Trammell as Dr. Kent Sutterer, Mike Colter as Tommy Shine, Ali Skovbye as Emma, Victor Zinck Jr. as Joe Morrow, Lisa Durupt as Paula Noble, Jason's wife, Taylor Mosby as Chayla, Isaac Kragten as Josh and Nikolas Dukic as Josh Reiger, Cindy's son.

 

Remarkably, this was directed by newcomer to feature films, Roxann Dawson (tons of TV). Clearly with the plethora of all the TV she has directed has enabled her to be able to follow suit in the feature film realm. All these characters were real with their emotions, and considering this subject matter could definitely go the maudlin route, this was handled deftly and this is certainly talented directing. It was effectively written well by a relative newcomer to feature films, Grant Nieporte ("Seven Pounds" '08) plus TV, based on the inspiring book by Joyce Smith. Through interviews I've seen prior to this film's release, it was said that Joyce Smith and others emphasized the importance of actual certain words to be implemented in the script, so as to make this storyline to be as true as true can be. So although some of the script was already planned out, the screenplay still had to be cohesive and follow through effectively to make this plot work, and this writer did so in spades. Other than a couple of small places of slowness, this script simply soared. Again, with a good deal of TV under his belt, Nieporte was able to really showcase what he can do. Another film that comes to mind with a similar feel to it is 2016's "Miracles from Heaven" based on a true story about a boy who went to heaven, but was sent back. Both of these films were produced by DeVon Franklin pga. It will be interesting to see Nieporte's "The Big Fight" which is completed and should be released soon.

 

I personally encourage more of the inspirational type films to be released in theaters considering how volatile our society is these days. Sometimes I believe the incredibly violent, drug themed films merely encourage a worsened sociological people that if were given more films like this one to watch, maybe, just maybe the society in which we live might improve. It certainly couldn't hurt! This is must see for one and all--to see that God is still in the healing and forgiving business.

 

Out of 4 Stars: 3.5                                    Rated: PG                                    116mins.

 

Little

When "Big" was released in 1988, it was considered a fresh original comedy, and since there have been other similar films as well, such as "13 Going on 30". Well, I suspect it's time to have that comedic fantasy rehashed in the form of "Little".

 

Jordan Sanders (Regina Hall) is a take-no-prisoners tech mogul who torments her long-suffering assistant, April Williams (Issa Rae) and the rest of her employees including Preston (Tone Bell), Scott (Marc Hawes), Emily (Jade Fernandez) and Melissa (Kendra L. Williams), on a daily basis. She soon faces an unexpected threat to her personal life and career when she magically transforms into a 13-year-old version of herself (Marsai Martin) right before a do-or-die presentation with an important existing client, Connor (Mikey Day). Jordan will now need to rely on April more than ever--if April is willing to stop treating Jordan like a 13-year-old child who has an attitude problem.

 

Others to round out the cast are Justin Hartley as Mr. Marshall, a teacher, Luke James as Trevor, JD McCrary as Isaac, Tucker Meek as Devon, Thalia Tran as Raina, Marley Taylor as Stevie and Rachel Dratch as Agent Bea.

 

This was directed by a fairly seasoned writer, Tina Gordon Chism ("Peeples" '13). Certainly with her writing experience, her ability was made evident in her ability to direct. The emotions she was able to extract from her actors was just the right level making these characters seem real. She will certainly direct more. It was also wittingly written by Gordon Chism ("Drumline" '02, "ATL" '06, "Peeples" '13, "What Men Want" '19 and Tracy Oliver (Barbershop: The Next Cut" '16, "Girls Trip" '17) plus TV and shorts, based on a story by Oliver. What makes this somewhat different than the other similar plotted films is that the other films has a child that either wants or is thwarted into becoming an adult, whereas this is visa versa, where this woman is thwarted into becoming a child back when she was 13-years-old. Couple this with a fairly witty, funny script and a workable ensemble cast and what comes out of this is humorous and, at times, uproarious. Certainly these writers are in familiar territory and it surely suits them well, but it would be interesting to write something a bit different. Definitely there are writers that can write anything for any genre which is worth their weight in gold, but even if a writer stays in their comfort zone, that can be a good thing too. At least these writers know what they do best. This did have some issues with choppiness and tightness of script, but I certainly got many laughs out of this. This is like a cross between "Big" and "The Devil Wears Prada" whereas Jordan is very much like Miranda in Prada. If you like the brand of Tracy Oliver's writing style, her "The Sun Is Also a Star" is completed and will be released soon.

 

Could it be that the comedies that heavily rely on sex, drugs and 4-letter words riddled through the script are fading? We can only hope. Of late, comedies have been relying on script, interaction with actors and some good writing, like this, so can we expect to see more, if not even better films in the future? If Hollywood is smart, the answer to that question will be yes!

 

Out of 4 Stars: 3                                          Rated: PG-13                                      109mins.

 

Hellboy

The closer we approach the summer film season, the more we start seeing animated , action and comic book films. Hey, Hollywood has to make sure they provide enough fare to get those 18-24 single males in those theater seats cha-ching! Since school will be finished rapidly soon, we will be besieged with a barrage of the aforementioned types of films. So, with this said, you have "Hellboy" to sink your teeth into.

 

Hellboy is back, and he's on fire. From the pages of Mike Mignola's seminal work, this action-packed story sees the legendary half-demon superhero (David Harbour) called to the English countryside to battle a trio of rampaging giants. There he discovers The Blood Queen, Nimue (Milla Jovovich), a resurrected ancient sorceress thirsting to avenge a past betrayal. Suddenly caught in a clash between the supernatural and the human, Hellboy, along with his adopted dad, Professor Broom (Ian McShane), Alice Monaghan (Sasha Lane) and Major Ben Daimio (Daniel Dae Kim) is hell-bent on stopping Nimue without triggering the end of the world.

 

Others to round out the cast are Stephen Graham as Gruagach, Sophie Okonedo as Lady Hatton, Alistair Petrie as Lord Adam Glaren, Brian Gleeson as Merlin, Penelope Mitchell as Ganeida, Mark Stanley as Arthur and Thomas Haden Church as Lobster Johnson.

 

This was intensely directed by Neil Marshall ("Dog Soldiers" '02, "The Descent" '05, "Doomsday" '08, "Centurion" '10, "Tales of Halloween" (segment- "Bad Seed") '15, "Poor Richard's Almanack" (TV movie) '16) plus TV and shorts. Since the 2004 version of "Hellboy" and its subsequent sequel "Hellboy II: The Golden Army" in 2008, this version certainly has a similar feel which makes this version that much more credible. The character of Hellboy by Harbour is executed well carrying the same persona that Ron Perlman did in the original film. Marshall is very much right at home with this genre as one can see by reading his resume, and with that, assuming there will be another "Hellboy" in the franchise, it should be as action-packed as any film can be. If you like his brand of directing, his "The Reckoning" is in pre-production. It was written by Andrew Cosby (TV series), and considering this writer only has TV to his credit, the screenplay was not badly executed. Don't get me wrong, the script had issues: too much going on to keep track, a fair amount of choppiness, and it was bit too long-in-the-tooth--it could of had 10-15 minutes cut and still got the point of the film. Whereas the 2004 version dealt with more with the origins of Hellboy, this version has Hellboy helping the B.P.R.D. (Bureau for Paranormal Research). This does leave the audience with the whole idea of another installment, but it will depend on how much this makes in the box office. We must remember that when the original film was released, the Marvel empire and DC Comics really were not that well known. They've been huge for the last 10+ years, so films like "Hellboy" back then were considered fresher and more original. So, with this perspective, maybe Hollywood should commission a more seasoned writer for the next installment for this franchise. The visual effects predominantly designed by Mr. X, Rhythm & Hues and RISE VFX were seamless, however were a little too much over-the-top. They seem to want to compete with the story too much.

 

The best thing about this was the fact that Harbour was amazingly effective as Perlman was in the original "Hellboy". I was concerned about that, because that character was so pivotal to the storyline. The casting of Harbour was spot on and, assuming there will be another installment, will make the next installment interesting as well.

 

Out of 4 Stars: 2.5                               Rated: R                                        121mins.

 

The Best of Enemies

Hollywood tackles many different issues when striving to send a message, especially when the issue is racially slanted. Many films throughout film history have addressed this issue: "To Kill a Mockingbird", '62, "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" '67, "The Color Purple" '85, "Ghosts of Mississippi" '96, "A Time to Kill" '96, "Lee Daniels' The Butler" '13, "Selma" '14, to mention a handful. Since racial tension has been at an all time high of late, this was a perfect time to release "The Best of Enemies" addressing school integration back in 1971.

 

Based on a true story, "The Best of Enemies" centers on the unlikely relationship between Ann Atwater (Taraji P. Henson), an outspoken civil rights activist, and C.P. Ellis (Sam Rockwell), a local Ku Klux Klan exalted Cyclops leader who reluctantly co-chaired a community summit created by Bill Riddick (Babou Ceesay), who is from Raleigh, North Carolina, battling over the desegregation of schools in Durham, North Carolina during the racially-charged summer of 1971. The more Atwater and Ellis attempted to thwart each others tactics considering how passionate their positions were, the more they oddly seemed to connect, albeit slowly, but connect. The incredible events that unfolded would change Durham and the lives of Atwater and Ellis forever.

 

Others to round out the cast are Nick Searcy as Garland Keith, Wes Bentley as Floyd Kelly, Anne Heche as Mary Ellis, C.P.'s wife, Bruce McGill as Carvie Oldham, John Gallagher Jr. as Lee Trombley, Nicholas Logan as Wiley Yates, Gilbert Glenn Brown as Howard Clement, Caitlin Mehner as Maddy Mays and Dolan Wilson as Councilman Bill Atkins.

 

This was written and directed by virtual newcomer to writing and directing, Robin Bissell. He has produced films such as "Seabiscuit" '03, "Just Add Water" '08, "The Tale of Despereaux" '08, "The Hunger Games" '12 and "Free State of Jones" '16. With his ability of producing, certainly this has given him that jump ahead to not only be able to showcase his craft, but with that, this showed that this filmmaker definitely has future work. Certainly both Henson and Rockwell had incredible chemistry and know how to be convincing is any role-- they've proven themselves time and again, but this is certainly the ability of an effective director to be able to extract the emotions in which he had done. The writing was effective as well, which tells me that this guy is a natural. Is this film without flaws? Absolutely not. There are a couple of places of choppiness and some cohesive issues, but considering this is Bissell's first screenplay, it was awesome! I've seen seasoned screenwriters that were not as effective. If this is his first script, I'm waiting to see what he'll write next--and there will be a next script. Both Henson and Rockwell simply shined in this. Considering their huge differences, these two experienced actors were able to have these two characters connect in such subtle and realistic ways.

 

If message, intense, storylines are your thing, you'll revel with this. It's not only a great history lesson, but a moral lesson as well, without feeling like you're being preached to. The acting, writing and directing will definitely keep you riveted to your theater seat.

 

Out of 4 Stars: 3.5                                  Rated: PG-13                                       134mins.

 

Shazam!

One can always tell when the summer film season is approaching when we are offered yet another 'comic book movie' as I call them. And not only a film based on a comic, but the first one that is actually labeled a comedy--also an action-adventure, but an actual comedy called "Shazam!" Com'on, the title practically induces laughter, and laughing you'll be doing.

 

We all have a superhero inside us, it just takes a bit of magic to bring it out. In Billy Batson's (Asher Angel) case, by shouting out one word--SHAZAM!--this streetwise 14-year-old foster kid can turn into the adult Super Hero Shazam (Zachary Levi), courtesy of an ancient wizard Shazam (Djimon Hounsou). Still a kid at heart==inside a ripped, godlike body--Shazam revels in this adult version of himself by doing what any teen would do with superpowers: have fun with them! Can he fly? Does he have X-ray vision? Can he shoot lightning out of his hands? Can he skip his social studies test? Shazam sets out to test the limits of his abilities with the help of his foster brother, Freddy Freeman (Jack Dylan Grazer). After honing his newfound powers, he is approached by a super villain, Dr. Thaddeus Sivanna (Mark Strong) who demands his superpowers so as to make him stronger--than he already is. Shazam has no idea who this doctor is, but he certainly finds out quickly. Will Shazam succumb to Dr. Sivanna's demands, or will he be able to battle his way out of this predicament?

 

Others to round out the cast are Grace Fulton as Mary Bromfield, Marta Milans as Rosa Vasquez, Shazam's foster mom, Cooper Andrews as Victor Vasquez, Shazam's foster dad, Ian Chen as Eugene Choi, Faithe Herman as Darla Dudley, Ethan Pugliotti as Young Thad, Jovan Armand as Pedro Pena, Evan Marsh as Burke Breyer, Carson MacCormac as Brett Bryer and Caroline Palmer as Billy's mom.

 

This was effectively directed by David F. Sandberg ("Lights Out" '16, "Annabelle: Creation" '17) plus many shorts and TV. With only a couple of feature films to his credit, it is remarkable that this was paced and staged as well as it was. Also, the two films he did direct were both of the horror genre which is a switch considering the lightness of this. It certainly shows this filmmaker's ability to go beyond his comfort zone which I can surely respect. He should receive more work. It was cleverly written by Henry Gayden ("Earth to Echo" '14) plus TV and a short. This was interesting in the fact that once Billy turned into Shazam, he may be an incredibly muscled adult with amazing powers, but he was still that 14-year-old teenager with the typical mentality and persona given the age. It was like the film "Big" and "Superman" combined. There were a couple of places of choppiness and some continuity issues, however considering this writer has only one feature film under his belt, this screenplay soared. Since Gayden wrote "Earth to Echo", it's no surprise that he wrote this since both films have the same feel to them. If you like his brand of writing, his "Last Human" has been announced. Also, this definitely leaves us with a sequel in tow, so I would imagine that Gayden will probably write that as well. I know, a comic book movie with a sequel? What? Like this has never happened before. I must say that Levi as Shazam was a casting coup. He was amazingly believable in this role. And last but not least, the visual effects predominantly designed by MPC (Moving Picture Company), Mr. X and Digital Domain were absolutely seamless. Now, they were over-the-top, but I believe that was purposed because this was made in such a kid-like way.

 

If you're going to see this, it must be seen on the large screen, since a 50 incher would not do this justice. And if you go the multiplex, it's also offered in an IMAX version as well. The best thing I can say for this film, is that it is the quintessential popcorn flick, which has controversy, no real message, lots of humor and tons of escapism, and isn't this why we go to see some of the films we see?

 

Out of 4 Stars: 3                                Rated: PG-13                                   132mins.

 

Unplanned

In this world, there are many topics deemed controversial and Hollywood has covered a vast majority--sometimes multiple times, such as homosexuality, religion, politics, civil rights movement, women's right for voting and equal pay, and even molestation, but the arena involving the abortion issue seems to have been swept under the carpet. Not sure why, but now it is being dealt with in the form of "Unplanned".

As one of the youngest Planned Parenthood clinic directors in the nation, Abby Johnson (Ashley Bratcher) was involved in upwards of 22,000 abortions and counseled and coerced countless women on their reproductive choices and ultimately convinced them to have an abortion due to her own pressure from her boss Cheryl (Robia Scott). Her passion surrounding a woman's right to choose led her to become a spokesperson for Planned Parenthood, fighting to enact legislation for the cause she so deeply believed in--until the day she saw something shocking that changed everything. Through a loving husband Doug (Brooks Ryan), parents, Kathleen (Robin DeMarco) and Mike (Robert Thomason) and pro-life advocates, Shawn (Jared Lotz) and Marilisa (Emma Elle Roberts), she realized they were there to support her when she started questioning her position, especially when Cheryl became intolerant because she thought Abby was getting 'soft' in her position.

Others to round out the cast are Tina Toner as Renee, Sara Hernandez as Elena, Maura Corsini as Megan, Lezl Gonzales as Taylor, Kaiser Johnson as Jeff and Andee Grace Burton as Grace, Abby and Doug's daughter.

This was directed by writing team Chuck Konzelman and Cary Solomon ("The Insatiable" '06) plus a short. Considering these filmmakers are new to the director's chair, they were able to extract the right amount of emotion out of their respective actors, especially considering the controversial subject matter--the actors seemed so real in their performances. Although they written many films which means they would be around many actors, this surely is why their direction was delineated well. It was intensely and rivetingly written by Konzelman and Solomon ("T.N.T." '97, "Point Blank" '98, "The Survivor" '98, "The Insatiable" '06, "What If..." '10, "The Book of Daniel" '13, "God's Not Dead" '14, "Do You Believe?" '15, "God's Not Dead 2" '16) plus TV movies and shorts. Like other films, this is filmed as a flashback. However, unlike others films that involve flashbacks, this starts with an abortion that goes awry and needs Abby's assistance. Then, from that point, her story about how she arrived to where she was at started ensuing. This form of writing certainly gets ones' attention considering how controversial the abortion or right to choose is. The flashback technique is compelling as it is descript, so as to add to the passion of the topic whichever side of the issue one lies. This screenplay is concise, tight, cohesive and obviously emotional, again hence the subject. These writers are definitely kings at the inspirational films and make no bones about it. They are not apologetic about whatever inspiration or subject matter they are conveying to their audience, and I can, at least, respect the fact that they aren't wishy washy. Their next film, "Tokyo Ghost Story", should be compelling as their other films and has been announced. If you get anything out of this, it should be the fact that as many aspects the pro-choice side comes up with, there is far more reaching evidence the pro-life stance can come up with that simply makes far more sense. This will speak to all, but certainly to those that either are on the fence or are staunch believers of the pro-choice stance. And what is also encouraging is that those who are pro-life are portrayed as loving, compassionate Christians as opposed to other films that portray them as bible thumping loud and boisterous jerks. Love can change a lot of people whereas treating people in a punitive way doesn't work and never will.

This is rated R for a reason. Because of certain scenes in order to send a clear message about abortion and what actually transpires out of them, this film is definitely not for kids or the feint of heart. Otherwise, I would truly recommend this film for everyone else, whether they be pro-choice or pro-life. I will leave all that life is precious and for someone to dictate when a fetus becomes a life is gambling, and gambling with life.

Out of 4 Stars: 4                                           Rated: R                                          109mins.

Hotel Mumbai

Our world has evolved into a volatile, vulnerable and scary place, especially since 911. Since then, terrorism seems to be the order of the day globally, where the most innocuous places and situations turn horrific. Hollywood has told stories about many of the travesties that has occurred including "Hotel Mumbai" about the mass shooting of a major hotel in India.

 

A gritting true story of humanity and heroism, this film recounts the November 26, 2008 siege of the famed Taj Hotel by a group of terrorists in Mumbai, India. Among the dedicated hotel staff is the renowned chef Hemant Oberoi (Anupam Kher) and a waiter Arjun (Dev Patel), who choose to risk their lives to protect their guests. As the world watches on, a desperate couple, David (Armie Hammer) and Zahra (Nazanin Boniadi) is forced to make unthinkable sacrifices to protect their newborn son which is being taken care of by nanny Sally (Tilda Cobham-Hervey). The police force is spread thin and a special forces group is as far away as 800 miles. So, between the police, hotel staff and guests, they must hold off these terrorists somehow until the special forces arrive, which adds to the intensity of the situation. 

 

Others to round out the cast are Jason Isaacs as Vasili, Alex Pinder as Butler Jamon, Gaurav Paswala as Sanjay, Angus McLaren as Eddie, Natasha Liu Bordizzo as Bree, Amandeep Singh as Imran, Suhail Nayyar as Abdullah, Manoj Mehra as Houssam, Dinesh Kumar as Rashid and Kapil Kumar Metra as Ajmal.

 

This was directed by a virtual newcomer, Anthony Maras (shorts). This filmmaker comes from a producing background and obviously has observed the filmmakers he has worked with on many projects. Also, for one to be this talented in the director's chair with such limited experience, one has to be a natural. These actors were extremely believable in their respective roles to the smallest detail. It will be interesting to see what he directs next. It was delineated well by writers John Collee ("Paper Mask" '90, "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World" '03, "Happy Feet" '06, "Creation" '09, "Walking with Dinosaurs 3D" '13, "Wolf Totem" '15, "Frackman" (documentary) '15, "Tanna" '15, "The Patriarch" '16) plus others, TV and shorts, and Maras (shorts). Obviously Collee has the lion's share of the writing here, Maras being a newcomer in this category as well. Obviously Maras was a contributing part of this story being his film, but clearly Collee was instrumental in making sure the continuity and cohesiveness in script was executed where it needed to be. The interesting thing about this screenplay was that there was an obvious delineation between the horror of the terrorists and the understanding and love of the Indians who were terrorized all the while attempting to save others. I personally respect this because we all have a tendency to lump all into the same category whatever the group or demographic. We don't have to agree with each other's beliefs--whether they be spiritual, life or political, but we can still love each other regardless. This is a choice! If you see this, hopefully you'll get this message out of it. The writing was incredibly tight, where you could feel these peoples' pain, so much so, I was squirming in my seat and biting my nails to the nub.

 

This is one of those films where it's not for everyone, especially given the raw grit and realism involved to get the point across that terrorism is horrific and should be wiped off the face of the earth. Honestly, it was so gripping and intense that when I reached the car after the film, I immediately uncontrollably sobbed, because it was so difficult to wrap my head around the fact that there are people out there that are willing to mow others down and do it as effortlessly as breathing. Just know that when and if you decide to see this film, it's a tough sit, but the writing, directing and the ensemble cast was stunning, especially Dev Patel.

 

Out of 4 Stars: 4                                           Rated: R                                          123mins.