Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

The final entry to the "Homecoming" trilogy is the best in the series. Not only is it the best in the series, but it is also the best Spider-Man film of all time without a doubt in my mind. It was the year's most anticipated film of the year and it not only lives up to the hype, but it also exceeds expectations. It has the most action I have ever seen in a Spider-Man film. The action is intense, exciting, and thrilling. The film also has the genuine heart and humor fans of the franchise, let alone the Marvel filmography as a whole, have come to expect. It will go down in cinema history as one of the most entertaining superhero films of all time. 

Director Jon Watts concludes his trilogy in a fantastic fashion. He has crafted the best of the trilogy and this film is a treasure to behold. His direction in this film tops the previous two films tenfold. It has the heart, action, and humor that fans expect from a Marvel movie. The scope of the action is unlike anything I have seen in any Spider-Man film up to this point. It is slick, intense, and exciting to say the least. I have zero doubt in my mind that this film will rank high among fan-favorite Spider-Man movies. The heart in the film is so much more emotional than anticipated. Be ready for the waterworks. 

The film returning ensemble cast is just as magnificent as ever. Tom Hollands alleged final outing as Spider-Man goes all out amazingly. His performance once again is as fun and exciting as ever. His portrayal of the iconic hero goes down as my favorite Spider-Man of all time. Starring alongside him once again are Benedict Cumberbatch, Zendaya, Jon Favreau, Marisa Tomei, and Jacob Batalon. They once again bring to the film a set of amazing performances. 

Much to the anticipation of fans, the return of Spider-Man foes from both the Tobey McGuire and Andrew Garfield Spider-Man films are fantastic. Returning as their characters, Willem Dafoe as Norman Osborn aka the Green Goblin, Alfred Molina as Doc Ock aka Otto Octavius, and Thomas Hayden Church returning as Marko aka the Sandman. Then, we have Garfield's Spider-Man villains returning respectively as Jamie Foxx's Electro and Rhys Ifhans as Dr. Curt Connors aka the Lizard. The whole concept of the multiverse is extremely exciting to see in this film and each of these characters returning to this film offers fans a massive sense of nostalgia. 

Returning to score the film like the last two films is Michael Giacchino. He adds to the excitement of this film in a marvelous way. It adds to the action and entertainment factors of the film through its entirety. Fans of his prior installments scores will enjoy this one just as much. 

This is the film we have been waiting for. It is the most exciting and thrilling Spider-Man film of all time. It is by far my all-time favorite Spider-Man film. The scope and wow factor that this film provides fans is extraordinary and will be appreciated by fans for ages to come.

Poster Courtesy of Marvel Studios and Sony Pictures 

Rate: A+

Director: Jon Watts

Starring: Tom Holland, Benedict Cumberbatch, Zendaya, Jacob Batalon, Marisa Tomei, Jon Favreau, Alfred Molina, Jamie Foxx, Willem Dafoe, Rhys Ifhans

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for Sequences of Action/Violence|Brief Suggestive Comments|Some Language)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 28 Minutes 

Synopsis: For the first time in the cinematic history of Spider-Man, our friendly neighborhood hero's identity is revealed, bringing his Super Hero responsibilities into conflict with his normal life and putting those he cares about most at risk. When he enlists Doctor Strange's help to restore his secret, the spell tears a hole in their world, releasing the most powerful villains who've ever fought a Spider-Man in any universe. Now, Peter will have to overcome his greatest challenge yet, which will not only forever alter his own future but the future of the Multiverse.

Avengers: Endgame (2019)

After last years devastating events that took place in "Infinity War", fans now get to witness the "Endgame". 11 years and 22 films, it all comes down to this final epic conclusion to an unforgettable trophy case of films. As if the events of "Infinity War" weren't emotional enough, this direct follow-up is just as emotional, maybe if not more than the "Infinity War". This film is everything if not more than what I expected. It's the perfect conclusion to a magnificent saga of films. You'll laugh, cry and scream, this film will take you on a roller coaster of emotions. After 10 years of amazing films, this is the end. This is an amazing conclusion and serves as the best "MCU" film of all time.
   
There is no one more capable to play our heroes. They have brought these iconic characters to life in such a remarkable way. This is what makes these films so enjoyable, is the cast. If it weren't for the cast in this film, we wouldn't have come to love these characters. The emotional investment fans have had all these years is palpable once you see this film.

Directing sibling-duo Joe & Anthony Russo have been making thrilling entries in the "MCU" for over 5 years, starting with the Captain America sequel "The Winter Soldier". Ever since, they have made undeniably entertaining films, this film is no exception. This is perhaps one of their best films. It's got heart, humor and heart-pounding action that fills this film to the brim.

"Endgame" has some of (if not the best action in any "Marvel" film since 2016's "Captain America: Civil War". It's exciting and jam-packed with action that's unlike any of the preceeding films in the "Marvel" filmography.

To keep the film on its toes, returning composer Alan Silvestri, booms back in the screen. Silvestri crafts another stunning, thrilling and epic score that is perhaps just as exciting as the film it so fittingly serves. Silvestri's now iconic "Avengers" theme is a staple in its own right because of how well it fits into the film. His score and themes will no doubt reign supreme in "Marvel" cinematic history.

Could there be anyone else more deserving of playing baddie Thanos no other than Josh Brolin. Brolin is the perfect choice to play him because he plays the evil doer in such a menacing and hell bent way that is no doubt exciting. Brolin's Thanos is quite possibly the best villain in any "Marvel" film thus far.

I've said it once, I'll say it again, this is the perfect ending to a magnificent filmography. It is bittersweet, it's fun and absolutely emotional from start to end. With a hulk-sized runtime of 3 hours, this is perhaps the best 3 hours I've ever spent at the cinema, perhaps ever. So, with all that to say, I just want to extend my utmost thanks and applause to everyone at "Marvel" for creating not only outstanding films for us all these years, but for making this the grandest-of grand finales in the history of any film franchise, and quite honestly, the grandest sequel to any film ever.

Rate: A+

Directors: Joe and Anthony Russo 

Starring; Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Don Cheadle, Paul Rudd, Brie Larson, Karen Gillan, Danai Gurira, Bradley Cooper, Josh Brolin

MPAA Rating: (PG-13-(For sequences of sci-fi violence and action, and some language)

Synopsis: Adrift in space with no food or water, Tony Stark sends a message to Pepper Potts as his oxygen supply starts to dwindle. Meanwhile, the remaining Avengers -- Thor, Black Widow, Captain America and Bruce Banner -- must figure out a way to bring back their vanquished allies for an epic showdown with Thanos -- the evil demigod who decimated the planet and the universe.

Runtime: 3 Hours & 2 Minutes 

Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios

Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

Ten years in the making and here we are. One of the biggest cinematic superhero films to date is now at the eyes of audiences everywhere. It was really spectacular and is in all its glory, a masterpiece of cinematic treasure. There's nothing like "Infinity War". Whether you like the comic books from the past century or are obsessed with the films, you'll undoubtedly be entertained from start to finish.

This film makes the ever-growing superhero/science fiction film genre extremely proud. This film is remarkable in all facets. The sets, action, special effects, cast and most importantly its immense presentation. Suffice to say- "Infinity War" is cinema's best superhero film, quite possibly one of the best films of the century.

Sibling directors Joe and Anthony Russo are back at it again with crafting another fantastic "Marvel" film. The two make this film stand out as the 19th entry of the Marvel Cinematic Universe- "MCU". It has so much to offer, that includes: action, drama, humor and a riveting score. The Russo Bros., have done it again, and I literally cannot wait for the fourth and final "Avengers" curtain call-due out next year. 

We wouldn't have these movies if it weren't possible for the men and women behind our favorite superheroes.  The cast who stole our hearts in the first "Avengers" film back in 2012, does it again. The ginormous cast: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Pratt, Hemsworth and Evans, Benedict Cumberbatch, Tom Holland, Chadwick Boseman, Gwenyth Paltrow, Peter Dinklage, baddie Josh Brolin, and Tom Hiddleston amd everyone else all part take in bringing everything to the table (the film). 

Especially, standing out are Brolin, Vision and  the Guardians. They stand out in that they are the shining stars of this film. Rightfully so on Brolin's titan sized Thanos. He is cynical, gargantuan, laced with humor and fashion accessories -(look at his fist). He also has times where he's emotionally hurt and that you somewhat have sympathy for. The Guardians on the other hand, stand out because they are seen in my eyes primarily as the ones who truly make it everything to try and crush the purple Titan. Paul Bettany's Vision is an unexpected star. Seeing that his character is one at the center of it all. Vision is truly a remarkable character in this film. 

Not gonna lie, I was overcome with the waterworks throughout the film. From start to finish this film was induced with shocking twists and turns. You'll definitely be as reactionary as I was and animated with reaction during those moments. Leaving the theater, I was shook to my core, that film had seriously messed with my emotions, more than any other film I've seen. 

Scoring the massive mash-up is Alan Silvestri. Silvestri, who has previously scored the first "Avengers" film, makes this score anew. With this film and all that it inhabits, Silvestri holds it up to even higher levels. 

Destiny has arrived.  For over ten years we have seen our favorite superheros in a whole new light. And that light hasn't lost its spark, especially with this film. You'll laugh, you'll cry and you'll gasp and cheer for your favorites as they conquer evil once more. With as gargantuan as this film is, you expect a whole lost coming. And suffice to say, it delievers. You'll be begging for more once that screen blacks out. "Infinity War" is truly a knock-out-of-the-park home run in terms of movies, that a film so stellar and magnificent can't go unwatched. 

Rate: A+

Director(s): Joe & Anthony Russo

Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Benedict Cumberbatch, Tom Holland, Zoe Saldana, Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson, Don Cheadle, Chadwick Boseman, Karen Gillan, Tom Hiddleston, Paul Bettany, Elizabeth Olsen, Anthony Mackie, Sebastian Stan, Idris Elba, Danai Gurira, Peter Dinklage, Benedict Wong, Pom Klementieff, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Gwyneth Paltrow, Benicio del Toro, Josh Brolin, Chris Pratt, Sean Gunn

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action throughout, language and some crude references)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 30 Minutes 

Synopsis: An unprecedented cinematic journey ten years in the making and spanning the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Studios' "Avengers: Infinity War" brings to the screen the ultimate, deadliest showdown of all time. The Avengers and their Super Hero allies must be willing to sacrifice all in an attempt to defeat the powerful Thanos before his blitz of devastation and ruin puts an end to the universe.

                                       

Marvel Cinematic Universe Review Series

Guardians of The Galaxy (2014)
https://www.malawskismoviemania.com/2017/03/guardians-of-galaxy-2014.html




Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
https://www.malawskismoviemania.com/2017/05/guardians-of-galaxy-vol-2-2017.html




Doctor Strange (2016)
https://www.malawskismoviemania.com/2017/05/doctor-strange-2016.html
 

Spider-Man Homecoming (2017)
https://www.malawskismoviemania.com/2017/07/spider-man-homecoming-2017.html



Captain America: Civil War (2016)
https://www.malawskismoviemania.com/2016/05/captain-america-civil-war-2016.html



Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
https://kanelandkrier.com/16561/pulse/thor-is-mighty-powerful-in-his-latest-film/

Black Panther (2018)
https://www.malawskismoviemania.com/2018/02/black-panther-2018.html



*Note: Marvel Films from 2008-2014 were not reviewed- As Malawski's Movie Mania wasn't established.*

Black Panther (2018)

Since the debut of recent superhero origin films like "Wonder Woman", that type of film approach has dominated the world and fans of all kinds of superheroes. Not only do these films generate an enormous fan base, (like Marvel), will keep making more and more of these provocative, dazzling and emotional films. The films of extraordinary magnitude also have important messages to be learned and that is something I usually don't see in these kinds of films.

Ryan Coogler is king.. of the directors chair. He now ranks among: Chris Nolan, Patty Jenkins, Taika Waititi and The Russo Brothers as a magnificent superhero storyteller. Coogler tells the "Black Panther" story in a colorful and creative way that is extremely detailed. From the sets, costumes, action, humor and technology, this film is no doubt one of Marvel's best films as of yet.

Even though this is only Chadwick Boseman's second go-around at the "King of Wakanda", it's very entertaining. More entertaining I'll say, than his appearance in "Captain America: Civil War". He plays the King T'Challa, in a determined, take charged manner. It's very enlightening to see.

Not only does Boseman do an awesome playing the title character, the rest of its cast: Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong'o, Angela Bassett all do an extraordinary job in this film. It's one of Marvels best ensembles.

Ludwig Goransson scores the film. He does it in a way that viewers like myself can experience african culture, in a true form. It captures that native culture in a very interesting way and the score complements those features.

This film, as I said before, has messages to take away from. Stand up for what you think is right, and fight for those who cannot. Viewers will truly appreciate this film more when realizing it's personal approach and its values.

Wakanda Forever! This film is absolutely astonishing, from start to finish. Even if you had no idea who this superhero is, this film will tell you. For the cultural educational and the overall satisfaction of a film of this kind, you will not be disappointed.

Photo: Marvel and Disney

Rate: A

Director: Ryan Coogler

Starring: Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Angela Bassett, Lupita Nyong'o, Martin Freeman, Andy Serkis

MPAA Rating: PG-13(for prolonged sequences of action violence, and a brief rude gesture)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 16 Minutes 

Synopsis: "Black Panther" follows T'Challa who, after the events of "Captain America: Civil War," returns home to the isolated, technologically advanced African nation of Wakanda to take his place as King. However, when an old enemy reappears on the radar, T'Challa's mettle as King and Black Panther is tested when he is drawn into a conflict that puts the entire fate of Wakanda and the world at risk.


Malawski’s Movie Rating System

A+ = Exceptional, One of a Kind, Masterpiece. Definite award season contender
A= Pure enjoyment, happy feeling. Satisfaction
A- = One to remember. Unforgettable
B+ = Can get a little over the top. But, it makes out as a good film.
B= This film has the potential to be better. Lacks in   consistency
B- = Watches occasionally
C+ = Guilty pleasure territory
C= Causes viewer frustration due to lack of depth in the story
C-= Meh
D+ = I hated this movie. Some parts were good. Overall, the film was garbage
D= Very few to no good parts about this movie
D- = Minimal qualities of excellence
F= Don’t even bother watching it. It’s that bad.