The Great Debate Star Wars Vs. Star Trek

With this Video the debate continues what is better: Star Wars or Star Trek?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BYNdTHjstI


So I think I'm going to weigh in on this thing
I also have various Ideas about the 2. Personally I always felt
that Star Trek was very claustrophobic at times were most of it
took place on the Enterprise or some other ship. True they did go
to different worlds and had different things going on but still the
majority of it took place in this enclosed space. Now I can't say that
I ever been a true fan of Star Trek I do like many of the ideas that it
puts forth like replicators, HoloDecks, characters such as Data and
the idea that humanity put aside its pettiness and is work toward a
common goal. But as a whole I can't say I truly enjoyed Star Trek.
in my opinion the saving grace of the franchise was the new movie
by jj abrams I greatly enjoyed that movie and it was amazing I think
that one movie was better then all the other Star Trek movies combined.
becasue it didn't have that feel of claustrophobia and was fast, fun
and exciting.

As for Star Wars I always felt that is was far more open they don't
spend all there time on ships. Also I felt Star Wars was more imaginative
with thing like all its creatures and aliens, In Star Trek everyone looks
humanoid. In Star Wars you have bug guys, Lizard guys, people like the
gungans and all that fun stuff.
Also Star Wars has more "personality" where things look used ships
have dings and scratches, paint scuffs, things are hanging off them.
It makes it more realistic where Star Trek is all clean and smooth
and molded round plastic.

Also timeline wise, the fun thing of Star Wars is that it could be
happening right now somewhere out there is the depths of space
which is a really cool idea. where Star Trek is in humanities future
like what the 23rd century and beyond.

Also Star Wars has a very interesting "mystical" aspect to it that
also ads to its fun, where Star Trek is pretty much straight forward
Science Fiction.

In the end its like trying to compare apples and oranges they
are both similar but different also this debate is is similar to the
one fans fraught over for year which is better Marvel or DC?
both have there strengths and their weakness it all comes down
to a personal choice.

The Muppets (2011)

I remember watching the Muppet show when i was a kid.
it was great I have many memories of it and how I enjoyed it
they were big when I was little. I remember watching the movies
"The Muppet Movie", "The Great Muppet Caper",
and of course The Muppets Take Manhattan

But as time goes on things do go out of style somewhat
I remember when Jim Henson died.. one of the images I'll
never forget is I think it was from either Life or Time Magazine
on the over it had a directors chair that said Jim Henson on it
and Kermit hang off the top of it.

In my opinion He was a great man and a true visionary
as well as a creative genius the world needs more people
like him. Also in the film this is a scene what plays
tribute to him that made me smile. I think he would
have loved this movie.

But as I said as time goes on things go out of style
the Muppets had a few features in the 90s but I think
they did poorly and alot of them were direct to video.

They were all but forgotten then a few years ago
the Muppet Show had a anniversary it was something
like 30th? I'm not sure but there was renewed interest
for a while and then it faded off again.

The Muppets were pretty much forgotten..Until now.

The movie basically centers around two brothers
(one who is apparently a Muppet) who are life long
fans who take a trip to LA to visit Muppet Studios
and find out that an evil oil tycoon is planing
to tear now the beloved studio which has gone
into disrepair. The young Muppet Walter (voiced by Peter Linz)
must gather the Muppets (who have disbanded) together
again for one final show and reintroduce them to a world that has
moved on and pretty much forgotten them.

The over all story for this is simplistic but at the
same time it works so brilliantly for this movie
becasue this movie focuses more on the comedy then
anything else and I would have to say that this
film is funny, there were so many good jokes and
gags in this film. I don't want to give away anything
if you haven't seen it yet, but its not short on the
hilarity there was very little time that I wasn't smiling
and/or laughing at this. This film was also filled
with plenty of fond happy memories.

Like always with the Muppets there is singing in this
and the songs are not over done but are well put together
and at the same time funny. also what would the Muppets
be with out Celebrity guests the the list of names are
very long with people like Zach Galifianakis, Ken Jeong,
Sarah Silverman, Whoopi Goldberg,Neil Patrick Harris,
Selena Gomez and on and on one person I thought for sure
who would be in this was Justin Bieber but he wasn't
I guess he doesn't like the Muppets..
The only thing I didn't like about this movie
was the scene from the Trailer featuring Danny Trejo

The acting was perfect the comedy was a hit each time
and funny, The Muppet puppeteering and effects were
the best and any and all visual effects were seamlessly
excellent

This film was nothing short of amazing! Like I said it was
filled with fun, laughs, plenty of fond happy memories.
It shares a lovely message about the importance of
family and friendships and what can be done when we work
together and introduces a whole new generation to what the world
need more of, which is togetherness. It also shows you that even if you
feel out of place there is always somewhere that you'll fit in and were
you feel like you belong.

So I highly recommend this film, if you grew up with them
or just want to introduce your kids to the zany wackiness
that you enjoyed at a kid then, take them to see this they'll
lovely it, and you will too.


but sadly not everyone likes the Muppets...

Immortals (2011)

One man must rise against an unstoppable army, lead
his people and become Immortal...

This is loosely based off the stories of Theseus as
he goes on a quest to find the Epirus Bow and stop the
Evil King Hyperion. I wanted to see this becasue
the trailers looked very cool and I'm a fan of all the
Greek Mythology. Now this was quite the film all the action
and effect shots were amazing. The fights and the action were

very quick and brutal. This movie for one doesn't
pull any punches. Its uncompromising, Unflinching, vicious,
bloody and basically gory. Some scenes might make
you want to turn your head and wince, namely
the "Ball Busting" scene.

There are exploding heads and bodies in slow motion! Even though the
slow motion fights were very impressive they are extremely graphic
and...in 3D! with blood splashing towards you.
Speaking of 3D it was pretty good effect especially in the fast and
slow paced fights and yes there was even nudity..Nudity in 3D!

I would all so like to say I liked the production design as well as the
costumes they were excellently done. I loved all the various masks
Hyperion and his army wore. The Designs were all Unique and interesting
especially the one for "the Minotaur" Even though the production
design was very good they didn't do alot on a big scale it seemed that this
all tood place in the same general area. There was some Interesting landscapes
but not much. I think alot of the production went into the fine details.

One of the things That I thought really sold the movie was the music .
The Sound Track for this was incredible! The acting wasn't bad either
Mickey Rourke does a great villain and the guy soon to be the
New Man of Steel (Henry Cavill) was very good as well I would have to say
I believed in this anger and this reasons for rising up. as for Freida Pinto
she did well also especially in one key scene, you'll probably know the one
I'm talking about...

As for the story I felt it was kind of loose it reminded me of things like
Gladiator and the Scorpion King. The whole film seemed like it was a cross
between 300 and Clash of the Titans (2010). One of the major problems I had
with it was the depiction of the Gods to me they didn't seem very God like..
I for some reason expected something more I felt the Gods in movies like
Percy Jackson and Clash of the Titans (2010) were better compared to the ones
in this, but in the end..

If you are looking for some deep hysterical epic this is not that. If your looking for
something driven by pure action and visual effects then I think this is the one for you.

Puss in Boots (2011)

I remember there was talk about making a
solo Puss movie since the release of Shrek 3..?
and it finally arrived. I wanted to see it
becasue the character of Puss was such a
great character in the Shrek films I wanted to see
how he would be on his own.

Now I have to say it wasn't a bad movie
Antonio Banderas is truly the one who brings this
character to life. The films was superbly voiced by
Banderas, Salma Hayek and Zach Galifianakis who of
course play the character of Humpty Dumpty
and yes they continue with the fairy tales featuring the
above mentioned Humpty as well as Jack & Jill, little boy Blue
and the Bean stock complete with Golden Goose.

There wasn't alot of music in this like there is in Shrek.
There was some but in but it was very low key. Also it did
of course have some humor and odd funny moments such as the
"Dance Battle" and the action was very good, you did get to see
Puss flying all around and doing alot of Jack Sparrow style
stunts and sword fights.

As for the story I think this was meant to be possibly what happened
before he met Shrek. You see this "Origin Story" and he goes on
an adventure that makes him the famous/notorious character seen in
Shrek 2. All in all this wasn't a bad movie it was fun and exciting,
but I don't think it was as good as the Shrek Films but it is still worth
a watch if you liked them.

Real Steel (2011)

First off the main reason I went to see this
is becasue I like robots. and this has plenty of them!
and I would have to say that they make this movie
drip with cool but this movie is not only cool but it
is heart felt as well the human aspect is just as important
as the flashy robots duking it out.
the story is basically about this down and out
boxer (played by Hugh Jackman) who is trying to make
a living with a broken down old robot on the fringes of
the Sport. Then he finds out that the mother of this son has
passed away and he is the sole guardian of the young
boy (played by Dakota Goyo). he makes a deal with his
sister in law's husband to take the boy for the summer
while they go on vacation, as well as some money for signing the kid over to them.
both father and son are not thrilled to be together
but they try to make the best of it.
During a scrounging mission for parts in a junk yard
for parts they come across a broken down old robot named Atom
and take him back were they are staying at and have him fixed
up by Jackman's mechanic/roommate/childhood friend/Love interest
Bailey Tallet (played by Evangeline Lilly) the robot Atom
comes off as something special, something worth keeping and
the father and son go on the road and fight there way up
the ladder to an actually main event title shot for the
robot boxing league and along the way the boy learns more
and more about his father and the two bond over this shared
experience and Jackman's character learns that there is more important
things in life then money.

Now I know the story seems somewhat simplistic and it is
true, while watching this I leaned over to my friend that
went with me and said "I know where this is going, I know what
is going to happen" and sure enough I was right.
Now even with that I can't say it took way from the movie
at all. because the old saying goes "its not the destination
that matters its the journey" and I thought going from the
opening to the end credits was a very nice journey.
I would have to say that the movie itself was well crafted
it was excellently written as well as acted. I felt this
was a very powerful movie aside from all the robot action
which of course was expertly done and overly exciting
the Robots and the robot effects were jaw droppingly good.
but the human element was well handled. this wasn't
a movie that was all about the flashy robots but actually
had emotion and a very human feel to it.

Around the end of the movie was this really touching moment
where the boy gets to see how great this father was as a boxer
while he uses Atoms "Shadow Mode" (The robot mimics what the
control person does) and Evangeline Lilly character
gets to see him pretty much "fight one last fight"
that moment is so emotionally charged you want to jump up and
cheer.

Also talking about emotion I thought at many times the
robot Atom was developing a personality, as if he was becoming
alive with thought and feeling all its own..
There was a scene were Atom is sitting on a table and his
body is a bit slumped forward but its head is tilted towards
a full length mirror and it looks like it is looking at itself
as it is looking at its own reflection.
I thought for sure at that moment that the eyes would flash
or blink or it would say something or move in someway that
would show you that it had a spark of life.
It didn't of course but it makes you think that it did.

In the end this film was very good from start to finish
and alot of people were saying that it was just like
"Rocky but with Robots" and I would have to say that
the comparison is pretty correct, that is how I would
describe it its this generation's "Rocky" but that
aside this movie was amazing and I would have to say that
it is a must see.

Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)

Now I wanted to see this due to its prequelness
How did it become a Planet of the Apes?
it all apparently started with a brilliant young scientist played
by James Franco who is the leading expert in all things
to do with the brain as he works to solve and cure the mystery's
of Alzheimer's disease. What he is doing is very noble and
come from the heart because he wants to save his father
(played by John Lithgow) from the crippling disease.

He Develops a cure which seems to work on a Ape which
has been dubbed "Bright Eyes" but after and tragedy
in the lab they loose the ape, but Franco is left
with a small baby ape who is the new born son
of "Bright Eyes" Franco's character brings the
baby ape home to his ill fathers delight and
the two of them name the small chimp Caesar.

They soon find out how special this lil chimp
is as the experimental drug has been passed on
from mother to son and as Caesar's intelligences
grow the two men begin to raise his as a human child.

As Caesar becomes more intelligent by the day
and proves how much of a miracle the drug is
Franco's character uses it on his father which
in turn reverses the effect of Alzheimer's
for a short time.

After a incident with a neighbor involving
Caesar and his growing curiosity Faranco's
character along with his new Girlfriend and
veterinarian Caroline Aranha (played by Freida Pinto)
come to the decision that it is not right to
keep Caesar cooped up in the house and decided
to take him to a local national park and
show Caesar the beauty of the world and
and what it is like to be...free.

But sadly not everything goes so smoothly
as Caesar begins to question his place in
"Man's World" as well as the
treatments no longer having any effect
on Franco's father and after a second
incident with a neighbor Caesar
is taken from everything he has know
and is put in a Animal shelter.

Caesar quickly becomes displeased with humanity
and feels as though Franco's character has turned
his back on him even though he does do everything
he can to bring him home. Caesar rises to the
head of the other apes and starts a revolt while at
the same time franco tries to fix his
miracle cure with disastrous results...

First off I though this was an amazing movie.
it is truly one of the best of the year.
I liked how they included things such as lines and
saying from the original films. The acting
on this was no less then perfect. I really enjoyed
the performances from everyone especially
Andy Serkis who truly brought the ape of
Caesar to life. The writing was very good and
there was some "monkey business" going on
as in some jokes by the CG Apes.
But I would have to say the effects were
breathtaking and showed true emotion in their
presentation and animation.

Now I did want to say that the neighbor guy was a
real jerk. I felt that he was a total hot head in
both instances with Caesar. The first
one where he was going to hit him with the bat was
in my view uncalled for.
Also for the second with the car was as well he should
know that the old man (John Lithgow) was not well and
has Alzheimer's and that is no reason to be a jerk to him
Also true having Alzheimer's is not excuse either but still
the guy next door could have been a little more understanding.
As for Caesar attacking him well Caesar was protecting
his "family" from someone who was being overly aggressive
and yes that is no excuse either but still
I think the guy next door brought it upon himself.

Also the young guy at the animal sanctuary I believe he got what
he deserved as well. he was the greatest example of being a jerk.
If you want respect from the animals you have to show them respect.
that is why Caesar didn't want the other young guy hurt becasue he
didn't do anything to the apes unlike the one that was spraying
them with the hose and using the cattle prods on them.

Now even though this movie had a good story and I enjoyed
it, it does leave mw with a lot of questions..
mainly how does this fit into either version of "Planet of the Apes"?
it doesn't seem to line up with either the Charlton Heston version
or the Tim Burton version featuring Mark Wahlberg.

Both take place in the future where both Heston and Wahlberg
are space explores who get sucked into a lets say
"Time Anomaly" which shoots them into a even further future
where earth is apparently ruled by a society of super
intelligent talk apes.
But then again this movie take place in present day...
How does this fit into the already established continuity?
Personally I thought this in a way synced up with
the Tim Burton version best due to the ending of that film.
and I was told there was a scene in after the initial credits
so I thought you would see the main ape from Burton's appear in the
POD and changing the past leading to the end of Burton's version but
that didn't happen instead you get a somewhat explanation on how
the human population declines, but that still doesn't explain
how the intelligent apes from San Fransisco get to places like
Australia and Japan? Also how do you get back to the first
film? Where astronauts crash on "the planet of the Apes"?
If your really paying attention there is new footage on a
TV in the background about the first maned mission to Mars and then
in a following scene you see a Newspaper headline saying the
shuttle has been lost in space. Which you could say is an
explanation and how this links up but I feel that it is so off
to the side and "blink and you'll miss it" that is feels more like
they are just covering their ass story wise then anything else.

But other then that is this an amazing movie and is worth seeing
it has a good story, some nice action and amazing effects. you shouldn't
be dis a pointed.

Cowboys and Aliens (2011)

Now the title alone screams watch me!
So I had to, I thought the concept of this was
very interesting and different and I wanted to
see how this all worked out.

Now I have said to people many times that
I'm not a big fan of westerns probably because
they were pretty much before my time. Now I have
watched plenty of westerns but they just never clicked
with me, I'm a child of Star Wars and like my
"space stories" as the older generation calls them.
I'm more Buzz Lightyear then Sheriff Woody.
Now I seen some interesting movies
similar to this so it is not a totally new idea but still
as I said interesting and different.

As for the movie itself I thought it was pretty good, I felt it became
better as it moved along and you had the chance to learn more about
the characters and the situation. I felt that it focused on
pretty much i would say classic character archetypes.
but that is not a bad thing.

Also at the first of the movie I felt the dialog and acting was very
stiff and what what staticey but the movie looses this as it progresses.
There was some slight "action movie" humor that gave me a chuckle.

Overall I thought the acting was pretty good I thought it was a
bit funny watching Harrison Ford as a villain around the first of the film.
he seemed to really play it up, but I did like alot of the moments he shared
with Daniel Craig. I also like the performance by Olivia Wilde (Quorra from
Tron: Legacy) she is somewhat mysterious and you don't find out her true
purpose until the middle of the movie.

Like I said there was some nice humor, one of the best jokes is when the
characters find out what the aliens want and Ford's Characters reaction
to it is very funny. Speaking of aliens I did like the creature designs
in this I thought it was very cool and liked the look of the creatures
I would have to say I was impressed by them they had a nice design
and I did thing the "chest arms" that they had were a very cool idea.

I also liked the designs of the little ships or "scout ships"
that would snatch up the people I thought those had a very unique look.
The visual effects, the stunts and the action were all nicely done.
Even the music was very good.

I have to say I enjoyed the film and if your looking for something
fun, entertaining with a little different concept then give this a try.

Conan the Barbarian 2011

By Crom its Conan!

Yes I went to see the new Conan movie
Now Conan has had quite a history in the
entertainment industry much like the history
of Tarzan and Sherlock Homes
Now I'm not going to delve into that history
being that it would take probably to long and
involve plenty of copy and pasting here
Also we are not talking about "the literary History"
of the character but this post is on this movie itself if
you wish to know all there is
to know about Conan you can read it here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conan_the_Barbarian

Now on ward to this movie.. I have enjoyed the original films
which started Arnold they were exciting and fun and at times
really funny and featured such scenes as Arnold as Conan punching
out a Camel (LOL) and they were great for being PG-13

Now with this new Conan comes the brutality of the heavy R-rating
and I do think that benefits this movie alot were you can have the
brutality of the extra violence and yes this film is especially violent..
probably a bit more then I think I thought it would be.

Now I know alot of people have been throwing alot of negativity at
this film and I can't say I share that view. I personally
rather enjoyed it.. Now true I am not the biggest Conan
fan I never read any of the original stories or the comics or
anything really.. My main and only exposure to the character
was through the original Arnold movies.

Now with that in mind and sure this was not "King Conan"
the film that was repeatedly promised for many years but
I thought this was a pretty good movie. True it wasn't the greatest
movie of the summer by far but it was a very enjoyable film.

I felt in away it it fleshed out
the younger character more. More of his childhood
Also the opening sequence was good and the narration by
Morgan Freeman didn't hurt. but like I said I though
it put alot of effort into the character's younger years
and somewhat drove home the idea that this boy born of war
was special and would go on to become a king.

I thought the times he spent with his father
(played by Ron Perlman who was great in this)
were very important and the scene around the first
where young Conan takes on and takes out the group
of "Wild Men" set the movie up for what he will become.

I felt the loss of his people especially his father
gave him a greater sense of purpose and made him a
more powerful character.

As for the person play Conan Jason Momoa (of Stargate: Atlantis
fame) did a really good job as this character I enjoyed
him as Conan he seemed to fit this part very well
and was comfortable in this role and did not seem
awkward or out of place.
I felt he had a great comradely with the other
male characters and could feel that chemistry between him
and Rachel Nichols (Tamara)

Also I though Stephen Lang who played the main villain
Khalar Zym did a excellent job of that as well he
played a good some what arrogant villain confident in
his own skills and ability which would lead to his
own down fall I also have to say I liked the
double bladed sword he had that could be detached
and do various combinations with.
Also there was a point in the film where it seems
to be allude that he may or may not have been having
a incestuous relationship with his daughter Marique
(played by Rose McGowan) who had a very interesting look.

Speaking of interesting looks there were of course
plenty of beautiful women in this as well and some
very nice T&A I might add (LOL)

as for the rest of the film I thought the music
was fitting and the action as I mentioned before
was sometimes graphic and intense there were times
where I would have to say "Ugh.." or "Oh, that doesn't
look good.." when a henchmen/warrior was dispatched.
but the action was very good some nice stunts and
and sword fighting and brawls.

The visual effects were pretty good also I liked
the "finger in the noise" scene that was some what cool
and I did like the effect for the I guess you would call
them "Sand Zombies" they were an interesting character
but the one thing I was kind of disappointed about
I thought for some reason there was a Dragon in this?
but there wasn't, I wonder where I gotten that Idea?

There was also a few humorous parts in the film
such as the scene with the catapult and the interactions
with Conan and Tamara they played off well with each other.

But in the end it had great production design and
some nice scenery shots which were very good
it was a pretty classic and fun action/adventure movie
and if people try to look beyond that to see something
with a greater deeper meaning then they are going to be
disappointed this is not Shakespeare, Its not going to
win the Oscar for best screen play or best picture
this Is Conan: The Barbarian.
and I would have to say I did enjoy it.

Colombiana 2011

I had a More detailed review of Colombiana but
sadly I can't seem to find the Text Document that it was
typed up in... but anyway I hope this is good enough:

I would have to say I really enjoyed this film I seen
the few trailers that were shown and I thought
that it might be a good movie and I wasn't wrong.
The story basically follows the character of
Cataleya (played by Zoe Saldana who played Neytiri
from Avatar) it starts out as she is a little
girl and her father is working undercover for the
US government, and he is found out and
he and his wife are killed but Cataleya escapes and makes her way to the US embassy
and from there to the US to live with her Uncle who is actually a high level Hitman.

With revenge in her heart and mind, re reluctantly trains her to become an
assassin for hire known as "Colombiana", when she is older she starts picking off
various people in hopes that the people who killed her family surface, which they
eventually do and she begins to take them out one by one until she gets up to the
head boss.

Like I said this was a really good movie, I enjoy and support the female
action heroes. I find they at times can be just as good if not better
then a movie staring a Male lead. I liked the various scenes
where you can see her struggling to lead a "normal"
while at the same time persuading this job of killing
people for money. It was very interesting to see the conflict
between her having a day to day life and her job.

I also thought that the acting was very well done as well
as alot of the action and stunt work, was pretty impressive
especially the whole sequence in the police station.
I thought that was pretty cool.

In the end I thought this was a very good action movie
and also a really good revenge story as well it was some what
classic in a way but it didn't feel like it was, it felt like a whole
new concept.

If I were to sum this movie up and relate it to something
I would say it was similar to The Punisher (2004)
being that it had almost the similar themes.
but like i said I thought it was really well done and was a very good watch.

Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)

I was overly excited to see this I couldn't wait and
I would have to say it was worth the wait! this movie
in one word is spectacular!
ok i can't use just one..it was uplifting and in
a away inspirational.
Inspiration as in one man can make a difference and
that being a true hero doesn't come from fancy powers or
flashy weapons but it comes from with in.. it comes from the
heart.

I would have to say I loved how this film started
and where it quickly started to go..
It is excellent in its execution, It take place during
World War II and follows the story of Steve Rodgers
and how he became Captain America
as he tries and fails to enlist in the army but is deemed unfit for military service
due to his size and medical problems and is turned down but gets invited to
take part in the secret Super Solider Project.
And becomes the only person who successfully does survives the procedure
of the ill fated program and with his new found strength goes on to fight
the Nazis and The Villainous Hydra lead by the Evilly Ruthless Red Skull.

I felt this was a perfect adaption of Captain America
It couldn't have been any better!
I liked how they used the "Original costume"
in the the USO sequences and those sequences
alone were very funny and somewhat showed how
he became know as "Captain America"

I have to also say I like how they handled The Red Skull
also the Make-up and effects were truly amazing
and Hugo Weaving's portrayal of the character was perfect!
He was truly the Red Skull in look and fell I was very pleased!

I was somewhat concerned about Chris Evans as Steve Rodgers
but after seeing him in action I would have to say my
worries melted away he was perfect for this part.

I also loved the nods of bucky (soon to be Winter Soldier)
played by Sebastian Stan)
and the punching of Hitler in the Jaw during the USO show was just like
the actual first issue. (which they do show in the film)
I also liked how they showed how he received this
actual suit and shield and the motorcycle.

I even like how they worked in "the Howling commandos"
but there was no cameo shot of Hugh Jackman.. becasue
Captain America did Meet Wolverine in World War II (lol)

Like I said about Evans and Weaving the acting and portrayals
in this film where really genuine and heartfelt especially
from Dr. Abraham Erskine (played by Stanley Tucci)
as well as Tommy Lee Jones who plays
Colonel Chester Phillips

The visual effects, the stunts, music, the writing
and simply the action itself were all very impressive
and were crafted with such heart that this movie
wins on so many levels.
there truly was not a moment in this film
where I was not smiling.
I can't say enough about this one
it has humor, laughs, emotion, hard hitting action
and heart.. Hats off to you Marvel
I can't wait until next summer where it all comes together..

and speaking of which, don't forget to watch after the
credits for a glimpse of what this is all leading up to.

Also this poster is just so amazingly good I had to share it

Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011)

again for the third time we follow the war of the
Autobots and the Decepticons. In what many are
saying is the last film of the series.
I went to see this and of course in 3D (OoOoOoO...!)
I would have to say I did quite enjoy this, I thought it
was truly a spectacular film and was pretty much happy
with all of it. They open with Optimus Prime telling a story
much like in the previous films and from this sequence you
can tell the visuals will be spectacular
and tie in the moon landing into this vast but very
engaging film. After that bit of explanation we find our
hero Sam living with a new lady. I'm not sure if I like
her more then Megan Fox..
this Rosie Huntington-Whiteley I think she does a very good
job I do like her especially her accent. Although you would have to get use to her
being she was only in the one movie were Fox was in the first two. but I would have to
say I did feel this Rosie Huntington-Whiteley did seem to have a little more chemistry
with Shia LaBeouf though.
Anyway, you can feel Sam Witwicky's frustration at the first of the film where
he is having a hard time adjusting to just being a regular guy again, and getting a job after
he saved the world twice in fact, but as Optimus Prime
said in the second one (Revenge of the Fallen) "fate rarely calls upon us at a
moment of our choosing." and is pulled back into the world of excitement.

I would have to say that the over all plot of the film itself is more in tune with the
actual show there is even a two part story in the original Generation 1 (G1) animated series
that is very similar to this. I also like that they brought more of the fan favorite things
into the films such as Optimus Prime's trailer, The cyclopic Decepticon Shockwave
and the winged Lazerbeak. it was also great to see Soundwave in his robot form.
Also Leonard Nimoy as the voice of Sentinel Prime was very well cast and for those
who don't know this isn't his first time as a Transformer he also voiced Galvatron in
the 1986 Animated movie. There were some nice moments with Sentinel and Optimus
and when Sentinel's "deception" comes to light I was thinking to myself "you don't deserve
the title of Prime"

Also yes what would Transformers be will out some great humor, the jokes
were of course very well crafted and I would have to say witty and they do invoke
some nice laughs out of you two of the most odd characters were the wacky
Jerry Wang (played by Ken Jeong) and sams boss Bruce Brazos (played by John Malkovich) .
also the Charlotte Mearing or just Mearing as she is know in the film
(played by Frances McDormand) came off as a bit hateful but she does have
some humor in here as well and we can't forget Shia who is always funny in these
and with the awkward moments with Sam's parents (played by Kevin Dunn and Julie White ).
I also think this film was nicely shot with great cinematography, with many beautiful shots
and I do think brilliant directing. I know alot of people crap all over Michael Bay and I don't
see why?

He makes movies that are fun and exciting, movies that people can enjoy and
which are pure escapist entertainment becasue isn't that why we go to the movies to escape?
this isn't a documentary and you have to say that they take it as serious as they can
I mean how serious can you take a story about giant robots from outer space who are locked
in a brutal civil war? I mean come on! I think Bay was the perfect person to handle these
films, becasue that is what you want to see, robots fighting, and Laser beams and gun fights
and explosions becasue that is what you had in your imagination when you were a kid on the
living room floor playing with the toys.

This just brings that to life on the screen and does it ever! the action was amazing
spectacular! there were some awe inspiring stunt work and practical effects in this that
only heightened the visual effects experience. The visual effects them self were amazing.
I find with each new film the transformations seem to become more complex looking and
more detailed,

So do the Transformers themselves I find that the 3D characters are more detailed then
the originals from the 2007 or even the 2009 movie. I also think that the facial animations for
say Optimus Prime have become more human and expressiveness where you can see and
notice suttle things that ad to the over all I guess you would say "performance" of the CG
created character and that makes them more believable.

All in all I felt this film was truly amazing, with its nice score and music usage
to its excellent writing with very good heroic lines and cheeky humor.
To the impressive practical stunts and visual effects, to the feeding of the fans of
The Transformers and giving them exactly what they want.
To finally the continuing story of finding your
place in this world and the Universe at large.
This film in my opinion is a must see and is a true Summer Movie spectacular.

Green Lantern (2011)

"In brightest day, in blackest night,
No evil shall escape my sight
Let those who worship evil's might,
Beware my power... Green Lantern's light!"

Now this one was talked about for meany years
and there was some pretty stupid Ideas out there
like Jack Black in the lead role..
but thankfully none of them came to pass.

Just like Iron Man I would have to say I always
knew that this one would be made but I was more
of a not if but when will it be made.
and it looks like now is the time, Now is the time
for Green Lantern to shine and shine it did!

Personally I thought this was a very well done and put together film for
it first outing tackling the origin story and they did hit all the key point
and there was some good explanation in there for people who would not
be familiar with the story of Green Lantern.

The story in my view was pretty simple but some what classic in away
This hot shot guy is chosen and given a great responsibility, He faulters
and succumb to some self doubt about who he is and his abilities after
becoming a small fish in a big pond, but in the end rises to the occasion
and saves all life and earns his place with his new found strength.

I felt there was some nice acting in here but it has to get rolling.
At first I didn't like Blake Lively (Carol Ferris) I felt she was kind
of stiff at the start when we first meet her but as the film goes on
she shakes some of that stiffness off and does become likeable.

As for Ryan Reynolds I never pictured him as Hal Jordan I always seen
him as more as Barry Allen aka the Flash then Green Lantern but I would
have to say he did do pretty good in this role and I did like him as Hal and
he did look the part.

Peter Sarsgaard (Hector Hammond) as well as Mark Strong's Sinestro
were impressive as well. Hammond's pain and suffering is very well
done in he sells me completely on the torment he is feeling
even thought his origin Differs from his Comic Book origins slightly,
he was in my view well portrayed.
As for Strong's Sinestro he is very well played and portrayed just the
way I would think he would be as a respectable member of the Green Lantern Corps,
who is dedicated to his duty with benevolent intentions to defeat Parallax.
After facing defeat from the Monster he Implores the Guardians to construct
a yellow ring to fend off the Parallax creature but when it not needed
it is put away. but..it is not forgotten especially by Sinestro and
with in his hands it leads to his fall from grace.

Now I didn't want to jump right into this right away but I must say
The visuals on this film were amazing, but surprisingly I didn't find
it was over loaded with visuals and CG sure there was alot you couldn't do in
this film with out it, but I felt the effects were either story or scene driven.
I did feel that it wasn't "flashy" for the sake of being "Flashy"
feel it didn't come off as that.

Now speaking from a purely fan point of view the visual effects did kind
of hinder the rest of the movie just a touch becasue like I said from
a fan and design point of view I could care less about what was happening
on Earth I wanted to see more of the crazy creatures
and more of the aliens and all that stuff I wanted to see everything
up close an in amazing detail, All of Oa and all the members of the Core.
and the film is trying to tell you a story and all you are thinking is
go back and show me more of this and that, so it does hinder
it in that way.

Because the design of this film as well as the visual effects were
I hate to use this term "out of this world" but they truly were.
Personally I loved Hal's suit alot of people complained about it
but I thought it was impressive especially when it was "alive"
and the energy is flowing off it or coursing about it.

I thought that was an very good effect it gave it more weight
and made it feel more like it was alien technology.
Also the looks for familiar characters such as the Guardians and
Tomar-Re, Kilowog were very well done I was very impressed
and one of the things I was looking forward to was Kilowog
calling someone a "Poozer" (which means "useless rookie")
and when he did I was happy at that and it did make me smile

Also there was a bit of nice humor in this and a few nice jokes
but there was more action and battles with some slick effects
then comedy. but in the end I enjoyed the movie it was
fun and exciting and pretty much how I seen Green Lantern in
my head so that is all good for me.

Also Watch after the credits, for a bit of a tease.

Super 8 (2011)

Now I wanted to see this being that the trailers looked
amazing and it just captured my attention. I must say that
if you go into this looking for a straight out Horror film you
might be somewhat disappointed. I can't really say that
this is a Horror picture I know it might seem that way from
the trailers and that but what it actually is...Is a
Thriller/Mystery that becomes
a out of this world adventure.

The film itself takes place in the 60s-70s and revolves about
a group of preteens/teens who are trying to make a monster
movie in there small sleepy little town
after the tragedy of the main characters mother. Its gets his mind off his loss
and spends time with his friends doing this project. This is all going as planed
until they are filming at the wrong place at the wrong time... when a train
is detailed caring a alien creature who just wants to go home and has some
sort of Electrical powers to go with its impressive size is accidentally unleashed
on the unsuspecting town. the young film makers go from making a monster movie
to being in one, as the military rolls in to try to capture the creature.

While at the same time the small group of friends must race again time to
save one of there own who was taken by unknown being from beyond the stars.

I must say I did enjoy film quite a bit it had that spookiness about it
with some jumps and scares along the way but also had some wonderful humor
that was all in the writing as well as some very nice action
it also had some nice touching scenes also having to do with understanding,
forgiveness and letting things go so that you can move on.

This was indeed very well crafted nicely shot and edited. The music was
prefect where it needed to be. The acting was very good and very believable
these kids were absolutely perfect. the action was fast and quick
and the effects were truly impressive.

The train crash I think was the main set piece of the movie itself and
that alone carries the wow effect. I was so amazed by that alone.

As for the creature you don't get to see it much at the start you
see a flash here and a glimpse there, a reflection or a swish of a
tail (it looked like it had some sort of tail) but as the movie rolls
on you get to see more and more an arm, the torso I think that this
piece by piece was very good way of doing this. You don't get to see
it close up pretty much until the very end. The only problem I thought
was its color its a smoky black and its usually in low light that you
see the creature. sure that makes it more mysterious and would hide
any possible imperfection in the creature design but on the other hand
it makes it harder to see it in full detail.

but you see enough were your satisfied with what you saw so its not
a real dower. But with that said this movie was fun, fast had humor and
heart. I don't want to say to much if you haven't seen it and you should.

Also stay and watch the credits you actually get to see the completed
film the kids made which is funny and adds to this films over all charm.

X-Men: First Class (2011)

Now I'm going to be the first to say that I went
to see all 4 previous "X-Men" films
I remember going to see the very first "X-Men"
opening night in 2000 and I have seen
all of them since and I have enjoyed each and everyone.

I don't have any complaints about them at all.
They were very good and I'll always
think they were good. I have also enjoy
the X-Men for many years in every media
be it comics, animation, video games or the movies.

I would have to say I was kind of concerned
about this whole "First Class" thing at the very start and whated to see how it
played out. After viewing the movie I would have to say those doubts were
greatly unfounded. This movie is excilent.

It is a Origin story of how "the X-Men" came to be. It starts off brilliantly with the
scene in the concentration camp much like the first did. There was alot of talk about
giving Magneto his own film, but I thought that would be unwarranted being this servers
the purpose. I like How they followed both Erik Lehnsherr / Magneto and Charles Xavier
separately right up until they met becasue both of them had there own story and unique
perspective on life and the people around them.

Also you get to see pretty much everything, The from the creation of Cerebro
to the blackbird, to How Magneto gets his helmet, to How the characters get
their superhero/villain names, why Mystique sides with Magneto, to the accident
that cripples Charles and the mistake Hank McCoy makes that turns him into "The Beast"

The movie covers so much ground but it doesn't seem to move fast it doesn't rush
things, this move gives everything it wants to say and do time to say it and do it.
also this film is not only a superhero film but some what of a period piece
being that it takes place in the 1960's (when the first issue of The Uncanny X-Men came out)
and uses the back drop of the Cuban Missile Crisis as a back drop to help propel the story.

But at its core this movie was a story about two friends of different points of view
and what they built together and the events that would that would break this friendship
and set off one of the greatest feuds and rivalries in all of comic book history...

Now with that said I would like to say this film was truly amazing the script
was impressive all the characters were pretty much as you see them in the books
the writing was amazing just the conversations of Erik and Charles were making me
smile so much. there was great dialog in this at times it can be very funny,
as they hint about what the future will hold. Also some very humorous scenes
such as the appearance of Wolverine.
I was kind of leery about him being in it, but then again my fears were put
to rest and the scene was very funny. I would have to say it was akin to the appearance
of Arnold in The Expendable. This is long before his appearance in X-Men and he is still
suffering the effect of loosing his memory at the end of "Origins" you just seem him of a
minute and he has one line and its funny.

Alone with the excellent writing was the excellent acting.. I loved everyone in their
part especially James McAvoy as Charles Xavier and more importantly
Michael Fassbender as Erik Lehnsherr / Magneto. This guy was Magneto he owned
that part as a young Erik Lehnsherr and just exuded power and evil when he finally
embraced it. I thought he did an amazing job as one of the most Baddest
Bad Guys of all time.

Also lets not forget Kevin Bacon as Sebastian Shaw. I have to mention him to be part of the
6 degrees of Kevin bacon, LOL! Now he was a good villain in this but then again
he is good in pretty much everything and was excellent in setting up the man
that would be come Magneto.

The Visual effects were of course spectacular, they refined Mystique's transformation.
and the "Teleporting" effect As well as I thought Emma Frost's Diamond form was very cool. I thought the Beast make-up was very well done, as well as things like Banshee's scream and Darwin's "survival skills"
I was just amazingly impressed with this whole movie from the costume design, to sets
to the comic and fan references like The hellfire club. I can't say anything bad about
it at all. This is one of the best movies this year.

The Roommate (2011)

Well I remember seeing the ads for this and
thinking it would probably be similar to films
like "Single White Female"
which I wasn't wrong.

Your basic story revolves around a girl named Sarah
(or Sara if you prefer) who is from a somewhat small
town who came to The University of LA to study
fashion design. She rooms up with a girl who at the
start seem a little be eccentric at first by the name
of Rebecca the two become friends but
as the story unfolds Rebecca becomes a little
bit more unhinged..

you can tell first off that this is going to be a slow
decent down when Rebecca is not very social and feels
possessive of Sarah when others are around.
and you can tell she is pretty crazy when she does her first
crazy thing by do the thing with the ear rings and not even flinching.

While Sarah is out doing the college things new life and new friends
Rebecca becomes more and more obsessed and stalkerish.
She even starts to eliminate and attack those who would
threaten her and Sarah's relationship.

Attacking the girl in the shower and the Teacher as well
and disposing of the poor little kitten! what was done
to the kitten wasn't the nicest thing.

You can tell Rebecca has gone completely nuts when she takes
out the knife and cuts her stomach with it after beating
herself up. In the end it has a classic ending the 2 girls
fight it out and one looses.

all in all the movie wasn't even scary. it did get slightly creepy
after Sarah finds out that Rebecca is not the greatestt person in
the world. the movie does use familiar things so it wasn't
very new if you see it all before. I can see some direct to
video sequels in this movies future.

two thing I notice though was Sarah's boyfriend Stephen
reminded me of Ryan Reynolds and that they actually used
Wikipedia in this and not something made up like "Infoshare"
like a lot of movies do. anyway this movie was ok but like I said
it was seen all before.

All Star Superman (2011)

Doomed Planet...
Desperate Scientists...
Last Hope...
Kindly couple..
SUPERMAN!

Sadly I have to say I didn't get to read the
actual books when they came out I would
have liked to. I heard they were really good
I'll have to at some point.

The books acording to Wikipedia:
All-Star Superman is a twelve-issue comic book
series featuring Superman that ran from
November 2005 to October 2008. The series was written by Grant Morrison,
drawn by Frank Quitely, digitally inked by Jamie Grant and published by
DC Comics. DC claimed that this series would "strip down the Man of Steel
to his timeless, essential elements".[1]

The series was the second to be launched in 2005 under DC's All-Star imprint,
the first being All Star Batman and Robin the Boy Wonder. These series are
attempts by DC to allow major comics creators a chance to tell stories
showcasing these characters without being restricted by DC Universe continuity.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All-Star_Superman

The basic story behind All Star Superman
Is Lex Luthor in his never ending conflict to best
the Man of Steel strikes not at Superman himself but
at the source of his powers..the Sun. Causing Superman to be poisoned by solar radiation.
As he is slowly dying Superman decides to fulfill his lifelong dreams, while at the same
time saving the Earth from various threats and with his remaining strength stop
Lex Luthor once and for all.

I would have to say with this New DC Universe Animated movie they seem to be getting
better and better. Being that I didn't have the chance to to read the books I felt the story
was kind of loose but still very good. I can't say I have any real complaints.
It has a very nice opening scene and I didn't think it had alot of music
when it did it was very subtle.

I would have to say that i like all the little fan moments in this it was truely
saturated with them, including a glimps of the Superman form the DC
story "DC 1 Million" which I'm apparently told this and the One Million
story are linked.

I also liked the Character designs and the animation was very well done
as well as the voice acting it for some reason made the characters
seem like they truly shared the same space.
I also like the depictions of both Luthor and Superman in this
it was a great version of Luthor he was in my opinion one of the best
renditions of the character I think I have seen. Also Superman
didn't come off a god like but he seemed more realistic more human
which was very nice.

There was some excellent action and I thought there were some
humorous moments as well like Jimmy's Cross dressing and Lois's
freak out at the Fortress of Solitude.

I would have to say this was one of the best so far the only
sad thing about it is it didn't some with a DC Animated Short
I wonder what happened there?

THOR (2011)

"Whosoever Holds This Hammer,
If He Be Worthy, Shall Possess
The Power Of THOR"

I honestly never thought I would ever see a
movie baised on Thor.
Nor did I thought I would see one so
excilently crasted and amazingly done.

Personally this film was for a lack of
a better term amazing! I can't say I'm the
biggest Thor fan, but I have read my fair
share of Thor comics and stories and true
I have always enjoyed the character.
He has always been and fun and interesting
character to read or watch (Mostly in animated form) and
I have to say that this movie does so much justice to the
character it was unbelivable.

They did everthing that Thor should do. I loved the look
of Asguard complete with Rainbow brige. All the characters
looked like they were pretty much ripped from the comic pages.

I was kind of concerned about the Helmets, being alot of the
production pictures you seen Loki and Thor weren't wearing them
but you see Thor in his and of course Loki wearing his with the horns
so that made me very happy that they didn't neglect that part of the
costumes. I know it is a very minor thing but you have to please
the fan like me and we do enjoy the minor little things.

As I said they looked like their characters, when I think of Thor
what I picture was up on the screen. Same with all the other
characters I think this was due to the brilliant casting.
Anthony Hopkins was very good as Odin as was Natalie Portman
as Jane Foster she was pretty wonderful in this part.

I would have to say I did like her interaction and
chemistry with Chris Hemsworth's Thor who also did
a very impressive job as his character. I can't really picture
anyone else that character now, He truely nailed it.
but as I was saying about the couples interaction
it was loose, flirty and fun.

Speaking of fun, This film for an action movie had plenty
of humor there were some good laughs especially when Thor
arrives on Midgard (Earth) some of the jokes had me laughing
many of them are "fish out of water" things as Thor adjusts
to live on Earth. There is also a couple of running
gags as well as the dry humor that is brought with
the character of Agent Coulson (played by Clark Gregg)

Now like i said this was an action movie and there
was plenty of it. The fights on Earth when Thor tries
to reclaim the Hammer ( Mjölnir) were excilent and the
the battles when he was fully powered were spectlar!
and I didn't expect anything less. Also the amazing
superheroics were aided alot by the impressive
Visual Effects.

When the Hammer was used or thrown
it moved and reacted just how I imagened it would
and just how it is done in the comics.
The Frost Giants both effects wise and make-up
were very cool and very well done as was the
mechnical monster "The Destroyer"

I can't say enough good things about this movie
I compleatly loved it, every second of it!
I this is what we have in store for the rest of the
Marvel films then I can't wait!

Also stay tuned after the credits for and
extra scene!

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011)

Once again we hit the high seas with the world's
greatest pirate Captain Jack Sparrow! on his
next and some what solo adventure.

But will this new and 4th installment of the
once powerful franchise sail claim waters
or be a total shipwreck?

Personally I thought is was a very well done
film and you get what you pay for that is
Johnny Depp being all weird and odd as the
lovable and death defying Captain Jack.

The movie starts as usual with Jack in a
bit of a scrape in which he get out of with his signature style.
and he is off on his quest to find the Fountain of Youth which he started
at the end of the 3rd film.

Now you can tell that there is a laps in time in this film between the
two films (the 3rd and 4th) Personally I know there would be a 4th it
was just a matter of when. They don't say how much time has passed
but I think it is a realistic amount between the two films.
it has been 4 years since the end of the 3rd film so I would
think it would be about that story wise as well.

Also back again are some of the original cast like the loyal Mr. Gibbs
and Jack's rival Barbossa and also another appearance by
Keith Richards as Jack father Captain Teague.
I don't think they could have one of these movies with out some
of these characters. And as for the inclusion of the most famous
pirate of all not including Jack is Black Beard as the main villain
I didn't find he was as cool or as interesting as Davey Jones
but he was an excellent villain, ruthless and pure evil but
with a certain flair which made him very likeable and
enjoyable as a character.

Now as for the story I have no real complaints. It was
a quest to the ends of the earth and a race against time that's
what makes these movies good. there is always movement
always something new and something to see.

I would also have to say the scenery was impressive
plenty of sweeping and location shots. These movies are always
good for this like that as well as production design.
The writing was good as well and there were plenty
of nice tongue in cheek jokes in there that will give you
a chuckle or a laugh.

The music was the same as the others although there was
ar times a bit of a difference in it though.
and finally I have to say the stunts where of course
impressive to say the least but that is a given with this series.
You are eager to see what crazy thing/escape or daring do
jack will pull off next.

Effects wise it wasn't over the top like the previous films
The effects were I thought all were very subtle and somewhat
more realistic. There were not giant women made out of crabs,
maelstroms, skeleton crews or beards made out of tentacles.
But there were some very nice visual effects. I thought the Mermaids
were very well done and looked amazing. The whole "Mermaid battle"
was both a bit frighting and awesome at the same time.
They truly impressively done.
I also thought the Death of Black Beard and his "skeletonizing"
reminded me of the face melting in Raiders of the lost Ark
but is was very cool. Although I did expect more from the
Zombies, but they looked pretty good either way.

I must say I did like this movie and true I did miss Will's seriousness
playing of Jack's craziness but it was ok and I enjoyed it anyway
Now if you felt burned by the 3rd but still loved the series give this
a watch it is more a kin to the first with plenty of silliness and fun.

Also there is another bit of wackiness after the credits with
Jack and Gibbs.

Fast Five (2011)

The Engines race and its pedtal to the metal
in the 5th installment of the wildly popular
and sucessful Fast and the Furious Franchise!

Picking up where the fourth left off
(The movie actually starts at the ending
of the fourth as you see the out come of
the 4th again) and then we get sent to
beautiful Rio where we find people have
moved on, Have new lives but a job brings
everyone back together.

The whole train sequence was very cool
this series still manages to pull off the most crazy stunts and make it
all look so easy. I have to wonder if Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel)
is a descendent of Captain Jack Sparrow (LOL!)
But after the train job goes not as planed and the team comes under fire
from a vicious crime lord while also being blamed for crimes they didn't
commit they have to out run and out smart a special forces leader
(played by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson) who has been brought in
to take down Vin Diesel and Paul Walker's characters once and for all.

With a race against time to take down the crime lord and take everything
he has while at the same time out maneuver The Rock.
Do Dominic (Diesel) and his team have enough horse power? or are
they going to be left with their wheels spinning when this final job
goes from Mission Impossible to Mission Freaking Insanity?

Personally I loved this movie I thought it was fast, fun and exciting.
this is how you make the "Fast" movies work by going back to what made
the original so good. The main cast with some new faces along the way.

have plenty of action the fight scenes were pretty amazing especially
the one with Vin Diesel and The Rock I enjoyed that very much.
It was truly excellent.
Now that The Rock fought Riddick we have to get him to fight
a Predator! wouldn't that be awesome?

anyway the fights I really enjoyed and the stunts were also very
impressive its like they think "what crazy thing can we pull off next?"
Like I mentioned the whole train sequence was equally impressive
if not more so was the towing of the huge safe through the city.
That whole sequence was very wow inducing there much have been
alot of CG used for that I would think.
But all in all I enjoyed this. The story was pretty good
I felt there was some more character development and showing
some more of there pasts. There was also some good humor that
should give you a laugh or 2.
Also The Rock did a very good job in this. He was good in this role
as a cop that was very good at his job, but in the end his is like
Walker from the end of the first movie.
Now like I said I really enjoyed this, If you are a fan of the series
or just want something that is fast, fun and wild that this for a spin.

Also stay tuned for after the credits for an extra scene
that might lead to a ghostly return of someone who
was thought to be dead.

Scream 4 (2011)

Ah...Scream 4.
Well at first I thought this was never going to get made
and why should it? The series ended, The final chapter
took place and the Trilogy was caped off.

It was a good ending and Sydney was at peice with her
life. All was good then it happened..Scream4.
Why do we need a Scream 4?
The series was over and all was good or was it?

Now I didn't have much faith in Scream 4
"they'll ruin it!" I said "How will they do this with out
making it stupid?!?" I said. and the time came and
it was released and of course I went to see it...
Hoping against hope they didn't ruin it and I didn't have much faith in this movie
I was dredging it when the Dimension Films logo appear and the film started
and I watched....

Now I have to say, I was pretty impressed with the film..!!
that's right all my fears melted away while watching it, The film itself was
extremely thought out and very well put together.
From the opening scene which alone was amazing and funny, The story
captures you and you actually are left thinking: who is it? who is the Killer?
and the answer will surprise you.

Not only do the 3 main cast members return but you also have a few
more famous faces that you can see as well such as Anna Paquin, Kristen Bell,
Hayden Panettiere and Anthony Anderson to name a few.

Now even though this movie takes place 10 years after Part 3 the
original cast even though they look older don't miss a beat.
but some funny thing about the original cast that stood out
was Courteney Cox's face looks weird for the first part of the film.
people say she had a face lift and well it kind of shows, her face
looks lit it was stretched and she looks all weird.
Also Dewy's (David Arquette) limp and all that is gone?
I guess after 10 years nerve damage just disappears?
he must have had some amazing physiotherapy going on
becasue hey I'm no doctor but I wouldn't think after the
pretty much spinal nerve damage he suffered in the previous films
he would have the type of mobility he has in this one..
but then again that is just my opinion.

Anyway back to the the story of this film I would
have to say it is like half sequel and half remake in away
where it touches on all the elements of the original 3 films
while in introducing new things and new ideas.
It was I would have to say brilliantly written
all the referances and in jokes made me smile and laugh.

This film was well crafted and truly made for the fans
with plenty of love and I personally would like to thank
Wes Craven and Kevin Williamson for it.

As for the kills they were nicely done nothing over the top
or gory but they fit well in this film. The music was good
and welcomed and you can here the original theme
from the original movies in this as well.

but in the end I would have to say after all my fears and
all my doubts I was truly pleased with how this turned out.
All i can say if you were a fan of the original trilogy then give this
one a watch I don't think it will let you down.

Battle Los Angeles (2011)

I wanted to see this being the trailers looked amazing
it just gave enough away to make you interested.
Now I have to say that this movie does deliver on the wow effect.
I would have to say that is is a worth follow up to ID4.
I think it could be an actual sequel to ID4 if it wanted to be.
Being that the aliens in that were amassing for a
ground assault and I always heard that any Sequel
to ID4 would feature a ground assault.

Anyway this movie I would have to say was better then
Skyline which came out last year. Even though they are
similar Battle Los Angeles had a better story, a better
build up to the alien attack and I felt the story for
Battle Los Angeles was more fleshed out and
had more detail also Battle Los Angeles had one thing that Skyline didn't
and that was an Explanation.

They actually gave reasons for the alines being on Earth they didn't just
show up and start tearing up the place. True you an argue Skyline was
from the "Average Joe" perspective and Battle Los Angeles is not.
But still they could have thrown in some reason.
I just felt Battle Los Angeles left no lingering question and it
actually has a conclusion unlike Skyline which just stopped.
But as for Battle Los Angeles the music was fitting the action was
explosive (pun intended) The acting was impressive especially
from Aaron Eckhart and Michelle Rodriguez.
The film even had moments of great drama and a slight bit of humor
in the beginning.
The visual effects were impressive and I also like the production
design, The creatures do remind me of the ones from ID4 and their
technology seems even Terminatorish but that is ok.
I thought as a whole the film itself was very good and I did
enjoy it greatly. I felt the camera work was very raw at times and
put you right in the action.
This movie is truely a edge of your seat thrill ride that I was
very happy to take a trip on.

Paul (2011)

First off I love these guys! (Simon Pegg, Nick Frost)
Every movie they put out is always so heart felt and
genuine and always so very much fun. All their movies
are extremely funny with out being or trying to be funny.
They are true masters and are very good at what they do.
and this movie is of course no exception.

I seen the trailers and this this could be and
interesting movie and decided to check it out .
The house at the very first
(and which they return to later on) was very familiar I
can't place it but it was.
At its core this movie is a buddy picture about 2 friends who
are sci-fi fans who go on a little adventure that becomes
one of the greatest adventures of their lives and end up meeting a new friend who is
literately out of this world.
Now i have to say there is not alot of action in this but when
thre is it is pretty good but the main draw of this movie would have
to be the visual effects that brings "Paul" to life.

Now first off when I first seen Paul in the trailers I said to
myself that is pretty much the same as the character
"Rodger" from American Dad and you have to agree that
there are some similarities between the two especially
when he was dressed up as the "little cowboy"
but that is another discussion for another time.
As for Paul I would have to say that I was very impressed.

The animation is so flawlessly perfect the lips sync,
every movement, twitch, eye blink, everything.
He is a truly perfect creation that you actually think is actually in the
frame If he wasn't voice by Seth Rogen (who does a brilliant job)
and voiced by some unknown in the same capacity you would think
Paul was Real as in a real living breathing being.

Other then the mind blowing effects.
The writing is top notch its witty and sharp the
humor just rolls out with such fluidness.
There is no gag set up or joke setup it is all very natural
and very funny. especially all the references to
things like Star Wars and Spielberg movies among many
others Sci-fi and fantasy films and TV shows those alone
will give you a great laugh.

Not only is this movie funny but there are plenty of heart felt
moments as these friends travel on there adventure to help someone
get back to where they belong.
In short Paul is a humorous tale about friendship
even if your friend happens to be a rude somewhat crude, foul mouthed
alien and also one of the best movies I've seen this year.

Rango (2011)

Well what can I truly say about Rango?

I'm not much of a fan of Westerns which I
would say Rango is in away. But ever since
I seen the very first Trailer I had to to see this
movie. Now what a movie it was all I can say is
wow!

From the very humor us opening to the action
packed end this movie wins! but in all honesty
the movie is truly something.
The animation and the effects are in fact breathing
taking.
The emotion and movements and every little twitch
and jerk from the character is unbelievably life like.
The voicing action is perfect you can truly feel that
these are the creatures voices especially Johnny Depp he
breathes so much life into the character of Rango is amazing.

The Environmental effects and animation were like nothing
you seen before . Its all so real. From the splinters of
wood, to Dust and Sand I was truly amazed!

Now just the animation but everything was pretty much perfect,
from set design to props all the models down to the tiniest detail was
expertly done.
The music fit the picture perfectly. The lighting was awesome and
the script was out of this world the writing was witty and funny the jokes
were hitting every time Especially the scene where Rango meets
"The Spirit of the West" and who that actully is was just funny
in itself.
I also can't say that any of the dialog was out of
place or didn't seem to fit. The action also was fast and amazing
this movie like I said was pretty much perfect.

You should see this movie and I think personally this will win
Best Animated next year and if it doesn't there is something wrong!

Sucker Punch! (2011)

Hmmm...How to talk about Sucker Punch?
its an oddly interesting movie but where do I
start? maybe at the beginning? sounds good!

First off I have to say I liked the opening logos in
the s curtans that was a classy touch I really liked that.
Now after the it has a quick start there isn't
anything spoken its all done with music which was
really cool all the music in this is pretty good it has an
amazing soundtrack but the music
fits everything as in what the characters are doing.

Now back to the start I liked the way the opening title
was displayed in the rain.
now I thought the story in the beginning was kinda wonky
like they were in the asylum then Bang they were
dancing girls in some club? I was wondering if I missed something or what?

Now I wrapped my mind around it quick becasue I thought maybe the music in the female
doctors treatments hypnotized or created this mass artificial world of the dance club..or
this was just the way that the character "Baby Doll" used to escape what was happening
to her in the asylum, but then that doesn't explain the action sequences...

I felt Sucker Punch was a movie similar to the likes of the Matrix and Inception where
it is all a dream with in a dream.. Also it has alot of Alice in Wonderland type of Ideas in
it and brings forth the "are you the dreamer of merely part of someone elses dream" type
of questions.

Now much like the music the action in this was purely amazing! as where the
visual effects I would have to say that this was pretty much a live action anime
as far as the action and effects go.
Also the action sequences had everything you could ever want.
Hot girls kicking ass, shooting guns, doing sword fights and Kung - Fu
Nazi Robot Zombies (yeah you hear me!) Dragons, Mechanized Robot Battle suits,
Giant Demon Samurai and pretty much anything else you could thing of...

Now personally I would have to say that is was like I said an oddly interesting movie
it is one of those movies where you like certain parts of it but not others
I felt that the action/adventure scenes were more interesting then the rest of
the film... Also this movie is a bit confusing becasue it seems to be taking place
in 3 different locations which are the Asylum, the Dance club and the "Dream scape"
where all the action happens when the character of "Baby Doll" dances
and speaking of which I don't fully understand the purpose of the dancing...
its one of the odd things about the film where she dances and everyone is transported
to this "Dream scape" This movie is one of those movies where the lines between reality
and fantasy blur. It seems to have an odd message about standing up for yourself and also
comes with some what of a bitter sweet ending..

I would have to say that it is a pretty Decent and some what
enjoyably fun movie but I also think it needs repeat viewings to truly
understand it.

National Lampoon's Dirty Movie (2011)

Sadly I'm surprised National Lampoon is still making
stuff when not really many of their movies are really
funny any more National Lampoon seems to have lost
all its power to make people laugh and then starts to
copy other successful films or series
I have seen a few that were trying to duplicate the whole
American Pie feel and now with this one they seem to
be now copying Dimension Films "Movie" idea such as
Scary movie and Superhero Movie.

Also this movie somewhat misadvertises itself
knowing nothing about it
and going by the front cover alone I thought this was going to be a
parody of the porn industry. I mean look at it. Its called
"Dirty Movie" and there is a hot girl on the cover so I thought
of course a parody of Pron films becasue alot of people call
porn films "Dirty Movies" so I was interested in
seeing it of course.

Now when I started watching it I did like the title cards with the
dog on them if they put those up in a theater people would actually
do what they suggest but in the first few minutes during the opening
I was thinking "wow this is pretty racist?"
and there in lies what the movie is about. Not Porn but actually
Dirty Jokes...? yes that is what it is about.

Basically a somewhat sleazy producer played by
Christopher Meloni (who can actually be very funny watch
"Wet Hot American Summer" he is hilarious in that, but sadly
not in this) goes to the National Lampoon's offices
and pitches a movie of nothing but Dirty jokes.

With that "Dirty Movie" is born
it is basically A sketch comedy film where the characters
play out each joke. from redneck jokes to blonde jokes
to Black, Jewish, Gay people jokes.

I can see they are trying to make it funny but I
didn't laugh at hardly anything in this film.
I only chuckled once the rest of it is just smirk
worthy but I mostly just shook my head at how lame
this thing actually was. Compared to the other recent
comedy I watched called "Bald" bald was
actually funner then this and that is saying something.
also being that it is a "Dirty Movie" there is plenty of
hot girls topless and in the tiniest of thongs jumping and
jiggling around.

But don't watch this for the nudity, only watch it if you
every pondered questions like this:
"What do you call a black hitchhiker?"
or if you just have to hear a 12 year old girl say stuff like:
"Whats the difference between my pussy and my mom's?"

This movie is pretty weak and lame, it also sadly stars
Cyndi Lauper who plays the mom of the foul mouthed Little Johnny.
but like I said this movie is not worth it.
I don't even know why it was made?