Wicked Part One (2024)

One of history's most celebrated musicals finally gets its silver screen treatment. For over 20 years, the iconic musical phenomenon "Wicked" has captured the hearts of all. This film adaptation is incredible, wonderous, and beautiful in every sense of the word. The prequel to one of the most beloved films is a masterpiece. 

The "Wizard of Oz" legacy continues to amplify its presence in this film. The story gives audiences the backstory of the friends turned enemies in this film. It is beyond beautiful. This is one of the best films of the year, all powered by an incredible cast lead by Cynthia Erivo as the green "Wicked Witch of the West" and Ariana Grande as Glinda "the Good Witch". 

Jon M. Chu does an amazing job at this film. His vision to recreate one of the most popular musicals into a gigantic cinematic experience is phenomenal. The sets are incredible, colorful, and grand. The musical numbers and efforts of the leading ladies are nothing short of enchanting. Chu's direction is truly one of the best in musical film adaptations. 

Not only are Grande and Erivo perfect for these roles, but their singing performances are just as great as expected. The vocal talent they bring to the iconic musical is nothing short of remarkable. Their chemistry is surely one of the best in performances this year. Musical theatre fans of all ages cannot miss what this film offers. It truly is the best film of the year and the best musical film adaptation to date. 

Poster Courtesy of Universal Pictures

Rate: A+

Director: Jon M. Chu 

Starring: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande-Butera, Jonathan Bailey, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Peter Dinklage

MPAA Rating: PG (Some scary action, brief suggestive material, thematic material) 

Runtime: 2 Hours and 40 Minutes

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

"Top Gun: Maverick" is a thrilling and nostalgic ride that soars to new heights, paying homage to the original while carving its own path in the sky. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, this long-awaited sequel delivers a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping action, emotional depth, and stunning visuals.

Tom Cruise returns as Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, and his performance is nothing short of electrifying. Cruise effortlessly steps back into the iconic role, bringing a mix of seasoned wisdom and rebellious spirit that makes Maverick as compelling as ever. His on-screen presence is magnetic, and his dedication to performing his own stunts adds an extra layer of authenticity and excitement to the film.

The supporting cast, including Miles Teller as Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw, the son of Maverick’s late friend Goose, brings fresh energy and emotional resonance to the story. Teller's performance is heartfelt and layered, capturing the complexities of a young pilot trying to step out of his father's shadow while grappling with his feelings towards Maverick. Jennifer Connelly, Jon Hamm, and Glen Powell also shine in their respective roles, adding depth and dimension to the ensemble.

The film's aerial sequences are breathtaking, showcasing some of the most impressive and realistic flight choreography ever seen on screen. The use of practical effects and real aircraft gives the action an exhilarating, immersive quality that CGI alone can't replicate. The dogfights and training exercises are intense and visually spectacular, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.

At its core, "Top Gun: Maverick" is a story about legacy, redemption, and the enduring spirit of pushing boundaries. The script perfectly balances high-octane action and heartfelt moments, exploring themes of friendship, loss, and the passage of time. The soundtrack, featuring a mix of new music and iconic tracks from the original film, further elevates the viewing experience, evoking a sense of nostalgia while propelling the story forward.

"Top Gun: Maverick" is a must-see for fans of the original and newcomers alike. It’s a triumphant return to the danger zone that reminds us why we fell in love with Maverick and his high-flying adventures in the first place. This film celebrates the past and a thrilling journey into the future, proving that some legends never die.

Poster Courtesy of Paramount Pictures

Rate: A

Director: Joseph Kosinski 

Starring: Tom Cruise, Glenn Powell, Miles Teller, Jon Hamm, Jennifer Connelly and Val Kilmer

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (Some Strong Language|Sequences of Intense Action)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 16 Minutes

Synopsis: After more than thirty years of service as one of the Navy’s top aviators, Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise) is where he belongs, pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot and dodging the advancement in rank that would ground him. When he finds himself training a detachment of Top Gun graduates for a specialized mission the likes of which no living pilot has ever seen, Maverick encounters Lt. Bradley Bradshaw (Miles Teller), call sign: “Rooster,” the son of Maverick’s late friend and Radar Intercept Officer Lt. Nick Bradshaw, aka “Goose”. Facing an uncertain future and confronting the ghosts of his past, Maverick is drawn into a confrontation with his own deepest fears, culminating in a mission that demands the ultimate sacrifice from those who will be chosen to fly it.

Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)

"Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part 1" is an exhilarating triumph that redefines the action genre with its breathtaking stunts, intricate plot, and stellar performances. Tom Cruise once again proves why he is the king of action, delivering a riveting portrayal of Ethan Hunt that is both intense and deeply human. The film's pacing is relentless, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Director Christopher McQuarrie masterfully weaves a complex narrative that is engaging and thought-provoking, blending high-octane action sequences with moments of genuine emotion. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty and danger of each locale, while the meticulously choreographed stunts push the boundaries of what we thought possible on the big screen.

The supporting cast, including Rebecca Ferguson, Simon Pegg, and Ving Rhames, deliver outstanding performances that add depth and camaraderie to the story. Newcomers to the franchise also shine, bringing fresh energy and perspectives that enrich the overall experience.

"Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part 1" is a must-see for action aficionados and movie lovers. It sets a new standard for the genre and leaves audiences eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this phenomenal series. 

Rate: A 

Poster Courtesy of Paramount and Skydance 

Director: Christopher McQuarrie 

Starring: Tom Cruise, Hayley Atwell, Simon Pegg, Rebecca Ferguson, Ving Rhames, Vanessa Kirby

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (Intense Sequences of Violence|Action|Some Language|Suggestive Material)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 43 Minutes

Synopsis: In Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One, Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his IMF team embark on their most dangerous mission yet: To track down a terrifying new weapon that threatens all of humanity before it falls into the wrong hands. With control of the future and the fate of the world at stake, and dark forces from Ethan's past closing in, a deadly race around the globe begins. Confronted by a mysterious, all-powerful enemy, Ethan is forced to consider that nothing can matter more than his mission -- not even the lives of those he cares about most.

Dune Part Two (2024)

Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune Part Two” is a mesmerizing continuation of the epic saga, showcasing an impeccable blend of visual grandeur, compelling narrative, and exceptional performances. This film elevates the franchise to new heights, firmly establishing it as a landmark in modern science fiction cinema.

The story picks up where the first installment left off, plunging us deeper into the political and mystical complexities of the desert planet Arrakis. Villeneuve masterfully balances the intricate plot with breathtaking action sequences, ensuring that both newcomers and fans of Frank Herbert’s novel remain thoroughly engaged. The director’s vision for “Dune” is grand and ambitious, and “Part Two” realizes this vision with an astounding level of detail and authenticity.

Timothée Chalamet once again shines as Paul Atreides, portraying his character’s evolution with a nuanced performance that captures the weight of his destiny. Zendaya’s role as Chani is significantly expanded, bringing depth and strength to her character. Their chemistry on screen is palpable, adding a rich layer of emotional resonance to the film.

The supporting cast, including Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, and Javier Bardem, deliver stellar performances, further enriching the film’s dynamic ensemble. Each actor brings a distinct presence to their role, contributing to the film’s overall impact.

Visually, “Dune Part Two” is a tour de force. The sweeping desert landscapes, intricate set designs, and innovative special effects create an immersive experience that transports audiences to another world. Hans Zimmer’s score complements the visual spectacle perfectly, heightening the film’s epic scale and emotional depth.

One of the standout aspects of the film is its ability to balance spectacle with substance. While the action scenes are thrilling and impeccably choreographed, the film always retains its core themes of power, survival, and destiny. Villeneuve’s direction ensures that every scene serves the story, building tension and intrigue towards a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion.

“Dune Part Two” is a cinematic triumph that solidifies Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation as a definitive interpretation of Herbert’s work. It is a must-see for fans of the genre and a testament to the power of visionary filmmaking. This film not only meets the high expectations set by its predecessor but exceeds them, promising an unforgettable journey through the sands of Arrakis.

Poster Courtesy of Warner Bros. 

Rate: B

Director: Denis Villeneuve 

Starring: Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Stellan Skarsgard 

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (For Sequences of Strong Violence|Brief Strong Language|Some Suggestive Material)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 46 Minutes

Synopsis: "Dune: Part Two" will explore the mythic journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen while on a warpath of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, he endeavors to prevent a terrible future only he can foresee.