The Passion of the Christ (2004)

One of the most historically and religious events to ever happen in the history of mankind gets an extraordinary film portrayal. This event, the crucifixion of Jesus, and the last hours of his most extraordinary life. This iconic film is brought to life by none other than legendary director and devout Christian, Mel Gibson. Gibson makes this film even more meaningful while maintaining accuracy from the Bible. The film is not one for weak stomachs, this film as in the most bitter of graphics, is the most violent and disturbing films ever made. It will continue to be a staple in Hollywood but also for believers in Christ and non-believers for ages to come. 

There aren't many people who can portray the legendary and miraculous messiah in any media form. That being said, Jim Caviezel, is outstanding as Jesus. Not only does he try and resemble the presumed look of Jesus, but he is essentially the best actor to portray him in any film or television program in history. Caviezel has outdone himself in the best way possible, playing Christ is his best performance. It is heavy, undoubtedly emotional and is especially very impactful on anyone who has seen it or those who still have yet to watch. 

As I mentioned earlier, Mel Gibson brings histories most influential figures to the big screen everso triumphantly and with dignity and precision. Gibson stays accurate in telling the story of the death of Jesus very authentically and original that will delight audiences forever. Though the film is extremely violent, some may say that it is the most violent film ever made, albeit it certainly is, it does have its nonviolent sequences which are primarily in the form of flashbacks to the "Last Supper", are as impactful as the graphic nature and emotional moments throughout the entire film. 

Jesus, being multi-lingual, Gibson wanted to tell this story in the way of the ancient language of Aramaic. Aramaic is the language in which parts of the middle east spoke at the time of Christ. That being said, the film is entirely subtitled, but it is as effective even if it's not in English. The emphasis that this language and the dialogue has on the film overall, is stunning and is a first for films of religious value. 

Not only is the makeup, costumes, and sets so powerful to witness, but the score is even more powerful. Scoring this historical take on the most extraordinary events is John Debney. Debney makes the film even more dramatic. With a heavy inclusion of drums, a solo artist and the effect on this film overall, this is one of the eeriest and haunting compositions of music for a film, that I have ever heard. 

This film is an essential cinematic viewing. It has the power to impact believers and non-believers in so many ways. With this film, there is no telling that this won't impact every single person that watches this extraordinary work of cinema. This film is life-changing and will always be life-changing for as long as humanly possible. It is the single greatest faith-based film to ever be made in Hollywood. 

Poster courtesy of Icon Productions

Rate: A 

Director: Mel Gibson

Starring: Jim Caviezel 

MPAA Rating: R (for graphic violence throughout) 

Runtime: 2 Hours & 10 Minutes 

Synopsis: In this version of Christ's crucifixion, based on the New Testament, Judas expedites the downfall of Jesus (Jim Caviezel) by handing him over to the Roman Empire's handpicked officials. To the horror of his mother, Mary (Maia Morgenstern), Magdalen (Monica Bellucci), whom he saved from damnation, and his disciples, Jesus is condemned to death. He is tortured as he drags a crucifix to nearby Calvary, where he is nailed to the cross. He dies, but not before a last act of grace.

Onward (2020)

The one thing both "Disney & Pixar" is phenomenal at, is being able to create utterly entertaining films. Their newest feature is nothing short of magic. They are able to craft a film like its fellow filmography, is as beautiful as you would expect from these two iconic movie studios. For years, the studios have created some of the most emotional movies ever. With blockbusters such as: "Up, The Lion King and Inside Out", this film is next up to those films in being one of their most emotional films to date. Not only is this film emotional and creative, but it is also their most adult-centered film yet. With its story and visual effects, "Onward", is a brilliantly laid out and executed film of emotional proportions. 

Director of the 2013 "Disney & Pixar" film "Monsters University", is Dan Scanlon. Scanlon returns to make yet another exciting film from the studio. He makes this film just as playfully magical as the rest of the studios' prior film entires. Scanlon's vision is executed flawlessly and with the help of a stellar voice cast, this film achieves the great honor of living up to the standard that all "Disney & Pixar" films do, is that they are all wonderful in their own way and that they each improve on every single feature that is released. I have no doubt that Scanlon's work here will be best regarded as one of the most adventurous and ambitious films yet.  It is beautifully animated, just like the studio's prior entries, and undoubtedly their most adult-themed story so far. 

With an all-star cast led by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt who team up once again for a film that is not part of "Marvel", but for their first film at "Pixar". They are quite a comedic duo. They each pull off being very likable and charming in this film but while also showing audiences thee reason we fall in love with the films that "Pixar & Disney"  make, its because they get actors that star in their films to have great chemistry. The same goes for this film, Holland and Pratt have exciting chemistry which makes the film all the more enjoyable. 

Starring alongside the two, are Julia Louis-Dreyfuss and Octavia Spencer. Louis-Dreyfuss plays the mother of Pratt and Hollands characters. Her part in this film is just as emotional as the two and she gives the film an extra kick to be just as entertaining as the two leads. While Spencer also plays a somewhat minor role, she is able to charm her way on the screen just as effectively as the rest of the cast. 

Scoring the film, are Mychael and Jeff Danna. With a film that is as magical as it is exciting and emotional, the duo is able to create a score that is as light and medieval as stories with this nature have. The sibling composers are able to charm audiences with a score that is as lighthearted and delicate as the film overall. 

Like I said earlier. this film is the most adult-themed film from the studio to date. Its emotional levity is what ultimately drives this film throughout the escapades of the characters and the mature nature of this film overall. I am sure that this film will impact audiences of all demographics because of the film's ability to connect audiences to a very emotional story. 

If there is one film that Disney & Pixar make that is both their most emotional and beautifully animated film this far, it is this film. And if there is any film that is made for adults, it is also this film. What this film does is indescribable too few words its that emotionally gripping. This film is yet another outstanding entry into the studios of both "Disney & Pixar". I have no doubt this film will enchant emotional audiences for ages to come. It is their most ambitious film yet and I cannot wait to see how future films from the studios compare to this one as far as emotional intensity is concerned. 

                                                                                                         Poster courtesy of Disney and Pixar 

Rate: A 

Director: Dan Scanlon 

Starring: Chris Pratt, Tom Holland, Julia Louis-Dreyfuss, Octavia Spencer, Lena Waithe, and John Ratzenberger 

MPAA Rating: PG (for action/peril and some mild thematic elements) 

Runtime: 1 Hour & 42 Minutes 

Synopsis: Teenage elf brothers Ian and Barley embark on a magical quest to spend one more day with their late father. Like any good adventure, their journey is filled with cryptic maps, impossible obstacles, and unimaginable discoveries. But when dear Mom finds out her sons are missing, she teams up with the legendary manticore to bring her beloved boys back home.