The Wolverine

The much anticipated Wolverine sequel has arrived. Taking a trip across the waters to Japan. I already have a personal fascination with the traditional Japanese culture so placing Hugh Jackman with a couple other mutants and some action- not a bad combination.

I realize the plot was revolved around Wolverine’s immortality and his journey to decide who or what he wants to be. Like always, it’s nice seeing new faces on the big screen but what I felt lacked was the mutant community. I had to remind myself several times this was a branch of X-Men. More humans were striving for power than the typical plot of mutants being targeted. Wolverine struggled internally (like always) from his past with Jean Grey along side of defining what he wanted to be: an immortal mutant or a mortal human?

Because in the previous X-Men movies it was established that Logan (Wolverine) was in love with Jean Grey. In The Last Stand, he felt obligated to end her life because she became a bit of a killing machine with her overwhelming uncontrollable powers. Unfortunately, Logan carried the guilt side by side with his love for Jean.

In this film, Wolverine has a bit of a romance with Mariko. It is true that Logan shows his affections through his mental detachment but expresses through his physical acts. In the mix between Mariko and Wolverine is the mental image of Jean. I personally did not feel the chemistry between Wolverine and Mariok but I was informed that is a continued story line in the comics. This was my personal opinion simply because I have not read the comics so I base my assumptions off of what I see on screen and how that makes me feel. I did not feel the romance connection. Logan was more wrapped up in Jean but had a dilemma because she was dead and Mariko was a living human who cared for him.

I really enjoyed the action as always. There was a nice variety of mutants, humans, and even ninjas! The action scenes were creative and super fast pace. I enjoyed the camera movement in the first real battle scene. It gave the allusion the audience was an actual bystander witnessing the experience in person. I enjoyed feeling the pace of adrenaline from each action scene.

Of course just like every Marvel film, I advise you to stay after the credits which gives leeway to what is to come. I did enjoy this movie just as much as I expected. Even though I am pretty good at predicting plot lines, the best part is I was still shocked by some elements. I would definitely recommend this to my Marvel fans, comic lovers, and action gurus.

Despicable Me 2

 

I've been looking forward to seeing this movie for quite some time. I loved the first one and loved this one too. I love the fact the Gru was a hilarious villain in the last movie and now he is motivated by the love of his girls.

Of course their family would not be what it is without little Agnes. Her innocent sense of humor is hilarious. The way her mind thinks is the cutest stuff ever; it really added a complete family aspect to the movie.

I love the fact that every character is unique in their own way. The three girls all have their own personalities and newcomer Kristen Wiig who plays Lucy even adds her corky character to the mix that is perfect to play opposite Steve Carell’s character.

My ultimate fav thing in this movie are the minions. Some stuff that should not have been funny made me crack up. I love those little guys. They could totally have their own movie just like the “Penguins of Madagascar.” There is a role for each one of them and although they do not speak clear words (more like gibberish) they are so darn amusing. I was so entertained by their interactions with each other and humans.

It was a completely adorable and funny film made for the entire family. If you still keep in contact with your inner child I would recommend this for you.

White House Down

I did not have an interest in seeing this movie at first but my mother wanted to, so I was her date for the evening. I am so glad I saw this movie; it was so much better than I anticipated. The movie had plenty of action, comedy, and emotion. It was the perfect movie to see on independence weekend.

Some of the combos I’ve seen on the screen, even I wouldn’t put together but Jamie Foxx and Channing Tatum were wonderful to watch. It was nice to have a president that represented our current president but I am not trying to stir the pot of controversy among those who don't support our president.

One thing I felt more than anything was a deep sense of patriotism. I assume they were going for that especially with troops still overseas and the withdrawal coming next year. The fight within our own borders was a clear message sent because terrorism can live within our own country. The U.S. has enough problems on the home front then we still do have to worry about foreign terrorism. I’m not trying to use this blog as a political platform but this movie makes one think about all these things.

Now, as a person who has taken a tour of the white house, the detail is exquisite for not filming in the actual white house. I heard they used green screen after studying the layout. It was pretty fascinating to see a lot of the same rooms I once stood in.

A movie that is engrossed in love, loyalty, and freedom is action packed as well as funny. It also makes you want to wrap yourself in the flag as you go to bed. For a good rounded movie, this is a must see.

The Heat

What can I say about “The Heat?” Maybe that it was hilarious from start to finish. I was scared to see it because I thought they gave all the jokes away in the previews but Melissa McCarthy was non stop from the beginning. Almost every line out her mouth was funny to me. Now I don’t expect it to be funny to everybody but I am a big Judd Apatow fan so that kind of comedy makes me laugh the hardest. One of my all time favorite movies is Bridesmaids which also stars McCarthy.

The teamwork of Mullins (McCarthy) and Ashburn (Bullock) is a hilarious dynamic duo; a good way to describe them is the modern day odd couple. I found myself relating more to Mullins than I care to admit. Putting that aside she is the inner bully all of us want to be yet partly the hot mess we already are. Ashburn represents the more organized side of us who plays by the rules and strive to climb the ladder. I’m sure we can all find ways to relate to these crazy ladies, that’s what makes them likable.

I am glad to see Bullock in a comedy even after she won her Oscar; she is a funny girl who needs to keep herself grounded in comedies. Who better to work with in a comedy than the current queen, McCarthy.

Best part of the film was the dialogue. I wish I could write like that but I don’t consider myself funny. I think I only stop laughing to catch my breath. This recommendation goes out to those who have a outlandish sense of humor and don’t mind cursing every two words.

World War Z

I am not a zombie movie person. Not saying I have not seen any but I don’t usually choose to watch them. I had no interest in seeing this movie and had not planned on it until I was hearing the glorious reviews from audience members.

Don't’ be fooled, yes, it is a zombie movie but it has a bigger purpose beyond the living dead. If we really think about it, Brad Pitt is at the point in his career where he doesn't take dumb roles. I have to admit, sometimes he takes roles for movies that are made for smart or worldly people. Back to the topic....it’s plot surrounds zombies but the quest for discovery is constantly sought after.

I really don’t want to give too much of this movie away because it has a pretty focal point and the title is self explanatory once the plot gets going. I’m not going to say it was a bad movie, it just wasn't for me but I would recommend this if you're into the end of the world stuff, zombie movies, action guru, or a Brad Pitt fanatic. All are legit reasons.

Man of Steel

Man of Steel has been praised up and down for being an overall good movie. I have heard nothing but good reviews from this movie. Regardless, I was going to watch it myself- that’s what I do, I review movies.

First, let’s state the obvious and get it out our system. Henry Cavill is super gorgeous. He’s like so handsome and so macho, it’s ridiculous. This guy is a total Christopher Reeves reincarnation. Best part....that is all him (if you don’t know what I’m talking about, you must be into women or not very observant).

Now that I’m done drooling, we can move on. Before this film even came out I was thinking who are they going to cast in this movie and where did this Superman come from? Well, as I was going through Cavall’s filmography, I came across one of my favorite films.... “The Count of Monte Cristo.”  He played young Count Mondego. Who would have thought that cute little 15 year old would later be casted as the Man of Steel? He grew up so fast.

This was a different superman movie than the rest because it set up how Kal became Superman. We even got the privilege of a visual of the planet Krypton. I enjoyed seeing how Kal got his powers and what happened to his planet.

A refreshing change was his opponent: sorry, no Lex Luther. More like Gods fighting Gods. It was a battle more like mortal combat instead of a giant among ants. It was extremely action packed and worthy to follow a list of Superman movies. The special effects were great and one thing I really enjoy was the dedication to the serious acting. I saw so many opportunities to make this film into a comedy like Avengers or White House down. All the actors stayed true to the plot, their characters, and never deviated or deteriorated from the quality of the story.

I did enjoy the plot but I was definitely more distracted by Superman’s looks. He’s too good looking to ignore and I am the very person to notice. Without giving more of the movie away, I give it four and a half stars. Great movie with a sexy star and I would recommend it to anyone.

Monsters University

How exciting to finally see a sequel that actually is a prequel. How Mike Wazowski and James P. Sullivan became Mike and Sully is a story to tell. Of course we know the ending if anybody saw Monsters Inc.

I really enjoyed the animation more than I did watching Monsters Inc. I had more of an appreciation for how different each monster is and I give major props to the artists creating all those creatures. Drawing is not my thing so I admire anyone with that talent.

When it does come to animation, we never see the face behind the character, we have to go on the voices alone. I do love that this movie had a star studded cast plus the original cast from the original Monsters Inc. If you pay attention to the end, one of my favorite characters from the original has a cameo. Guess who????

This was a good movie naturally with a good message behind it. Everyone is unique but don’t be afraid to go after a dream; find your niche. Good family movie although it includes humor for everyone but as a warning....the adults may be laughing more than the kids.

The Internship

Of course this started out like any other Vince Vaughn Owen Wilson bromance movie. It had the typical fast pace rant Vaughn does and the dreamer Wilson always plays. I was getting a little bored quickly.

To be honest the comedy in this movie is typical. If you have seen the previews, you pretty much have seen the movie. Nothing happened that I didn’t expect. On a lighter note, it may have had predictable laughs but it had a good message and a refreshing presence of modern technology. I know its about Google but most movies today are not about modern technology- they involve futuristic stuff or modern technology is only referenced to make a point about the time frame or certain character.

I’m not sure how much I would recommend this movie but if your are Vince Vaughn Owen Wilson fans, then by all means, have at it!

The Purge

At first I thought this was a scary movie but I took a chance and watched it against my better judgement...so glad I did. First, I have this weird obsession for Ethan Hawke; don’t ask, I don’t know why, it’s just there. I’m pretty sure it started from “Training Day” but that’s beside the point.

I found this movie to have such an innovative concept. The idea of having once day a year where there are no laws and no one can be punished it almost a good idea. As they put it, it’s a day for people to get out their aggression that they bottle up all year. By supporting the purge, you lay blue flowers outside your home even if you don’t participate.

The only thing that made me upset was the kid in the movie. I’m not giving anything away because it’s in the previews. He lets a person in the house who was being hunted in the purge.... not smart kid! I’m sorry but I would have to beat that child (in reality). I know if the kid didn't let the man inside the house, none of their lives would be in danger and then there would be no plot line.

Speaking of the plot line, I felt there were some unnecessary scary elements. I feel like the suspense alone was enough to have you on the edge of your seat without the scary movie effects. This would definitely be categorized as a thriller because of it revolves around killing, threats, and all takes place at night. Anyone knows all bad and scary things happen at night. One would have to be a true B.A. to make be a scary movie during the day time where people can get killed in public, but once again I digress. I would recommend this to my thrill seekers or those who want a change in pace especially as the first movie that broke the record for Fast Furious 6 after three weeks.