1917 (2020)

If there is any war film that is gripping as it is inciteful, it is this one. This war film is undoubtedly unlike any I have ever seen. It is better than any war film because of its uniqueness and realistic feel, mainly due in part by the stunning cinematography. Most other films like this also have stunning cinematography, but this film goes above and beyond by going inside the trenches of World War One.

The film is based on the tail end of the first World War and tells the story of two British soldiers who need to deliver a crucial message to a top British Military official who is near enemy lines. This film is indeed perhaps one of the greatest war films, and the stunning work of art that this film is will certainly be honored this award season.

Director of “Skyfall”, Sam Mendes, has done an extraordinary job at this retelling of a pivotal time in history. Mendes takes inspiration from his paternal grandfather who served in the war as a British soldier. Mendes can undeniably capture the essence of war so powerfully that the audience is witnessing it all makes this film even more captivating.

Partnering with Mendes once again on cinematography is acclaimed cinematographer Roger Deakins. Deakins can take audiences into the war with his stunning camera work. His one-shot technique is fantastic because this captures the atmosphere of the war and all surrounding it. I’ll say that this is without a doubt genius filmmaking.

Also reuniting with Mendes for the score is composer, Thomas Newman. Newman makes this film as gripping as possible with a score that is so upbeat and riveting in nature just like the film itself. To go along with this film, the score is as anxiety-inducing as the film itself, but in a good way.

The film's cast is predominately young, considering that this is a film in war. The two main leads George Mackay and Dean-Charles Chapman give sensational performances in this war drama. Each of them encompasses what it was like being a soldier in the war in stunning fashion and in an emotionally charged way.

This film makes the war film genre proud. Its utter sense of realism and authenticity in approach make this film more thrilling than ever. Whether you are a history buff or not, this film will educate you on one of histories most enduring wars. Sam Mendes possesses a talent that pays off in the long run as this film is one of the best, most fascinating war films of all time.

Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures

Rate: A+

Director: Sam Mendes 

Starring: George Mackay, Dean-Charles Chapman, Benedict Cumberbatch, Richard Madden, Colin Firth and Mark Strong 

MPAA Rating: R (for violence, some disturbing images, and language) 

Runtime: 2 Hours 

Synopsis: During World War I, two British soldiers -- Lance Cpl. Schofield and Lance Cpl. Blake -- receive seemingly impossible orders. In a race against time, they must cross over into enemy territory to deliver a message that could potentially save 1,600 of their fellow comrades -- including Blake's own brother. 

Jumanji: The Next Level (2019)

Ever since the classic 1995 Jumanji film came out, it is considered one of the best Robin Williams films. Now a reboot of the classic film has made a name for itself and rebranded into an exciting and action-packed film franchise. This franchise may no longer have the late iconic Robin Williams, but this franchise sees Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart in their comedic efforts. Following the 2017 reboot, comes a sequel that isn’t as funny but is just as action-packed as the previous film. This film does a good job at entertaining and fans of the 1995 original and the 2017 reboot will love this film, even if it isn’t as funny as the prior installment.

Director Jake Kasdan returns in this film with a fun and action-packed film. Kasdan makes this film as entertaining as the previous two films. Even though this film isn’t as funny as “Welcome to The Jungle”, it still excites. He makes the film even more action-packed than that film but it’s still a good addition to the franchise.

Returning to Jumanji are Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Nick Jonas, Karen Gillan, and Jack Black. They all return and give performances that are some of the best in any action-comedy film. Their performances are funny to the max and have a little something for everyone to enjoy. Alongside them are the younger cast, Alex Wolff, Madison Iseman, Ser’Darius Blain, and Morgan Turner. Just like the grown-up, video game avatar cast, the young cast does a great job once again at being thoroughly entertaining altogether.

The franchise also sees new faces in this film. Actors Danny DeVito, Awkwafina and Danny Glover make their franchise debut. The three do a great job at the overall humor of the film which is due in part by how they make this film even more exciting.

Like I said before, though this film isn’t nearly as funny as the 2017 installment, this film serves as another satisfying film. But, on the other hand, the action sequences are just better and more detailed than the previous film. The action sequences are also another big part of the comedic efforts here as well.

Composing the film's score is Henry Jackman. Jackman returns from the previous installment by bringing a lot more of an upbeat sound and one that is as fast-paced as the film itself. While Jackman also brings the return of the iconic drums sound from the original 1995 film. His score is as exciting as ever with this film and it makes the pace of the film flow smoothly even if the music wasn’t part of the film.

For this film is originally based off a book from the 1980s, this film would have a tough act to follow 25 years after the first film debuted. This film may not be as humorous as both of its predecessors, it delights in being another good addition to a fan-favorite series that audiences have come to love for many years.  

Photo Courtesy of Columbia Pictures and Sony 

Rate: B 

Director: Jake Kasdan 

Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black and Karen Gillan

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for adventure action, suggestive content and some language)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 3 Minutes 

Synopsis: When Spencer goes back into the fantastical world of Jumanji, pals Martha, Fridge and Bethany re-enter the game to bring him home. But the game is now broken -- and fighting back. Everything the friends know about Jumanji is about to change, as they soon discover there's more obstacles and more danger to overcome.