Doctor Strange (2016)

In Marvel's early prime, the adaptations the heroes we have come to love, wasn't necessarily what you would call a showstopper.  In fact, the versions of "Earth's Mightiest Heroes"  which were seen on tv in the 1970's and the 1980's, can't compare to the ultimate and helluva step in the right direction adaptations to Marvels beloved characters. The modern take on such loved superheroes is way better than that of the last depiction of them in the past century.

Life turned upside down, self centered Stephen Strange, a neurosurgeon, gets a chance at redemption after a car accident nearly kills him. With the help and powers of an ancient sorceress, Stephen Strange trains to become a force of nature. One that will defeat the evil in the world. One force that wants to dominate the Earth for power.

This movie dazzles from start to finish with its whimsically crafted special effects. The action and computer generated imagery is one of Marvel's best. With action as good as this, how can Marvel possibly top this one?

"Doctor Strange" stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Rachel McAdams, Tilda Swinton and Chiwetel Ejiofor, all shine as the films ensemble. Giving performances that are funny, dramatic and action filled, this cast is one of the better ones viewers will see. As this is an improvement upon prior Marvel films.

Director Scott Derrickson makes an Inception-esque film. In the sense, the visuals are similar. Famed composer Michael Giacchino composes a plethora of music fit for the superhero film. Possessed with upbeat and riveting qualities, the score is as delightful as the film.

Older generations of moviegoers grew up with an assortment of dazzling action packed, mind blowing films, like "Star Wars". But, now that a new generation of action crazed moviegoers has come, "Doctor Strange", is a milestone for films with epic visuals and action.



Rate: B

Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Rachel McAdams, Tilda Swinton and Chiwetel Ejiofor

Director: Scott Derrickson 

MPAA Rating: PG-13- (for sci-fi violence and action throughout, and an intense crash sequence)

Runtime: 1 Hour & 55 Minutes

Synopsis: Dr. Stephen Strange's (Benedict Cumberbatch) life changes after a car accident robs him of the use of his hands. When traditional medicine fails him, he looks for healing, and hope, in a mysterious enclave. He quickly learns that the enclave is at the front line of a battle against unseen dark forces bent on destroying reality. Before long, Strange is forced to choose between his life of fortune and status or leave it all behind to defend the world as the most powerful sorcerer   in existence.

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
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.

Kong: Skull Island (2017)

Before there was Kong, there was Frankenstein’s monster. The half man, half robot, was one of the biggest nightmares for us as kids. But after many years of cinematic monsters, comes a rebirth of a different kind of on screen atrocity. This depiction of Kong is essentially one of the more memorable on screen monsters in recent years.

This wasn't particularly on my radar as a must watch, but, I am glad I did. At first, this film struck me as a potential failure-(even though the trailers made it look good). From the start of the movie to its end, I was completely entertained by something as awesome and action-packed such as this film.

Not only are the visuals and action sequences in "Skull Island" stellar, but also, the cast and hilarious script-(audiences can thank cast member John C. Reilly for this one.) He alongside Brie Larson, Tom Hiddleston, and Samuel L. Jackson give terrific performances trying to subdue this anxiety-provoking monster.

To keep the film on its toes, composer Henry Jackman makes a fast paced plethora of sound for the film. It's just as riveting as the film.

This island was at  the center of the film's setting. Director Jordan Vogt-Roberts goes to great lengths with the sets. While trying to make the story of the jumbo ape as satisfying as possible.

It's like waking a sleeping giant. You know what you're getting into, despite your reluctance to turn back and keep your life. "Kong: Skull Island"  has so much to offer. From top notched action, a great cast and visuals, this film proves it has done a phenomenal job at entertaining audiences. This film will continue to do so for the years to come.

Photo: Legendary and Warner Bros Entertainment

Rate: B+

Director: Jordan Vogt-Roberts

Starring: Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, John C. Reilly. 

MPAA Rating: PG-13-((for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action, and for brief strong language) 

Runtime: 1 Hour and 58 Minutes 


First Published on kanelandkrier.com


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
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.

Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)

Sequels are an unprecedented kind of achievement. Given that the sequel treatment is a success. But can it better than its predecessor? Films are only brought the idea for a sequel for obvious reasons. The first film was a commercial hit globally and there is more to tell. Nothing can top an original but in some cases that's extremely rare.

What make each and every film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) different from one another is that they have various styles of vision and uniqueness. Some of the earlier films of this big world were just the preparations for the more action-packed films later down the road. Now, that the road has been traveled, the action has been amped up so high that the earlier films in the "MCU" can't compare to.

Heavily influenced by the 1980's, "Guardians of The Galaxy Vols. 1 and 2" make their films more and more entertaining with the help of comedic efforts and memorabilia of that decade. Both films also had their own "awesome mix tape"- a soundtrack well assembled with catchy tunes well known to somewhat old folks.

The special effects in Vol. 2 compared to one are way better. They're so colorful. Even more so than the previous installment. The sets are also something of amazement. They are so dazzling and detailed that you can't get enough of it.

Returning to star and kick some intergalactic ass are: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Bradley Cooper and Vin Diesel as the team of galaxy defenders. Not only does the cast do awesome at the action sequences here, but, also the dialogue between each character. It's as amusing as before, but better than before.

Unlike the prior installment, which had the more humorous attitude, while the follow up is funny, it's also quite emotional. Conflict among the characters and the development in the story. Just to name a few.

One of the films secondary but kind of main characters- Yondu, played by Michael Rooker, does an outstanding job as one of the films key elements to emotional effectiveness.

James Gunn returns as captain of the ship, directing once again. A wonderful step up rather than a step down from the first film.

It ain't no mountain high enough. Ain't no valley low. Oh, who am I kidding! "Guardians of  The Galaxy Vol. 2"  is a trek of awesomeness that is filled with loads of fun.

Photo: Marvel and Disney

Rate: B

Director: James Gunn

Starring: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Dave Bautista, Kurt Russell, Karen Gillan,

MPAA Rating: PG-13  (for sequences of sci-fi action and violence, language, and brief suggestive content)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 18 Minutes 

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

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.

Most Anticipated Movies of Summer 2017

                                                       

1. Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 2

Synopsis: The team search for the truth behind Peter Quill’s parents .
Photo: Marvel and Disney Studios
Release Date: May 5





2. Wonder Woman

Synopsis: Based on the D.C comic superhero and co-founder of the Justice League. This is the origin story of the almighty Wonder Woman.
Photo: DC Films
Release Date: June 2






3.   Cars 3

Synopsis: After a devastating car accident,  Lightning McQueen is determined to come back stronger than ever.
Photo: Disney and Pixar
Release Date: June 16




 
4. Spiderman: Homecoming

Synopsis: Following the events of Captain America: Civil War, high schooler by day and crime fighter by night,  Spider Man aka Peter Parker struggles to juggle school on top of fighting the evil Vulture.
Photo: Marvel
Release Date: July 7





5. Dunkirk

Photo: Warner Bros
Release date: July 21
Synopsis: Based on the real events of D-Day, Dunkirk tells the story of courage and heroism during one of history’s most challenging times.




6. Pirates of The Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales

Synopsis: Jack Sparrow spares off in a fight with the notorious Salazar in a quest to find the trident of Poseidon
Photo: Disney
Release Date: May 26



7.  Despicable Me 3

Photo: Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment
Release Date: June 30
Synopsis: Gru and company battle a villain who was a television star in the 1980’s.



8. Baywatch

Photo: Paramount Pictures
Release Date: May 26
Synopsis: Two lifeguards accompanied with attractive women help save a beach in jeopardy of closing.








9.  The House

Photo: New Line Cinema
Release Date: June 30
Synopsis: Two parents struggle to get the money for their daughter's college tuition. They start an illegal casino in their house to make that money.



10. Captain Underpants

Photo: Dreamworks
Release Date: June 2
Synopsis: Based on the best-seller, Captain Underpants, tells the story of how two best friends create a superhero caused by manipulation.




11. SCORE: A Film Music Documentary

Photo: Epicleff Media
Release Date: June 16
Synopsis: This documentary details the behind the scenes of the cinemas most influential music.

The Circle (2017)

 As the guy from that one State Farm commercial said, "You've gotta do better than that!" goes without saying. Moviegoers have witnessed recent utopian films like: Kingsman: The Secret Service or Terminator Genisys. But, seriously, and just when you thought the movies out thus far this year were all goody-too-shoes. It can only get worse from here.

Hollywood really needs to cutback on the film adaptations of novels. Especially when films like this one are completely lost in translation. But, I guess it all depends on a few vital things: director, studio and of course the cast. But, let's get real here. There have been really shitty movie adaptations of incredible books- *cough cough* (Divergent and Maze Runner). Not every book ever written must be made into a movie. Nowadays this trend in film has become old and it's like been there seen it kind of thing.

Let me lay down the hammer for you. 2013's "The Circle", a utopian thriller, is an utter waste of such potential. The original work of fiction makes this film one the worst literary-film depictions in a really long time. Not even the incredible talents of: Tom Hanks and Emma Watson- (second film this year) and her American accent, can save this messy, all over the place film.

However, the film has some stunning visuals. Placed somewhat perfectly aligned with the story line. I just can't seem to understand why so many things went missing in this film so quickly. I along with every other witness to this film was and I still am, completely baffled and frustrated at the films director for this gobble-de-gook.

Nothing is as disconcerting to me than watching a film that I had some hopes for, and it ends up a complete pile of trash. The trailers and other promotional material for "The Circle" made me thinking that I really want to see this because of the gifted pupils in this film. But no! They are such talents wasted here."The Circle", more like the eternal neverending line of boring.

Rate: D-















Photo: STX Films

Starring: Emma Watson, Tom Hanks, John Boyega, Patton Oswalt, Karen Gillan, with  Ellar Coltrane, and Bill Paxton (Final appearance)

Director: James Ponsoldt 

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for a sexual situation, brief strong language and some thematic elements including drug use)

Runtime: 1 Hour and 50 Minutes 

Synopsis: The Circle is a gripping modern thriller starring Emma Watson ("Harry Potter"), Tom Hanks ("Sully") and John Boyega ("Star Wars: The Force Awakens"). When Mae (Emma Watson) is hired to work for the world's largest and most powerful tech & social media company, she sees it as an opportunity of a lifetime. As she rises through the ranks, she is encouraged by the company's founder, Eamon Bailey (Tom Hanks), to engage in a groundbreaking experiment that pushes the boundaries of privacy, ethics and ultimately her personal freedom. Her participation in the experiment, and every decision she makes begin to affect the lives and future of her friends, family and that of humanity.






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
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.

The Incredibles (2004)

Superhero movies are typically a standard of normal. (You expect to see one being made every so often.) They also have prior works to go off of and adapt them to the big screen. Disney and Pixars latest goes above and beyond, ignoring that same old tradition.

I'm not going to jump right into why this is my favorite animated film of all time just yet. I want to lay down some of the amazing things about the film itself.

Big kudos to director Brad Bird for making such a unique and highly entertaining, original film. This is a movie to remember.

Can I have the same powers as virtually everyone? (In a sense, a black Elsa, an amazing gymnast, and Jesus, I mean, a grade schooler who can run on water. Yes, Please!

Some of the films best moments, are the films most emotional. Which makes the film even more effective and enjoyable.

All around, this film has spectacular action sequences. If I may add, some realistically created earthly elements. (Such as, fire and ice.) The sets are also an amazing achievement. Consisting of lots of depth and detail, that makes the film stand out.

Another big achievement with this film, is the amazing voice cast. Defending the world from evil, we've got: Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L. Jackson, and Jason Lee. Even though it's only their voices, they all surely do get the job done of making a great film.

Vanquishing the world of evil, one superhero at a time. Providing the fact that not all superhero films have to be made from their original works. Disney and Pixar prove just that. You don't need to be based off of decades old comic books just to get the big screen treatment.



Rate:  A+



Photo: Disney and Pixar 

Guardians of The Galaxy (2014)

It's the comedic version of Star Wars and Star Trek. Marvel Studios latest intergalactic feature (Thor was first of its kind) is undeniably hilarious and well, action packed. This film will no doubt be an immortal treasure etched into cinema.


For starters, Marvel doesn't disappoint here. They go above and beyond with this film. Making an achievement in  sci-fi films and the superhero cult of movies, is director James Gunn. He succeeds so well in the visual aspects and the action sequences. Gunn also wrote the screenplay, which is also a tremendous success for laughter and effectiveness.

The cast of the film, is undoubtedly one of a kind, authentic, and extremely enjoyable. Lead Chris Pratt steals the show as the human, (half alien) thief. While, on the other hand, you've got the humorous talents of Dave Bautista, Bradley Cooper, and Vin Diesel. They're just as hilarious as Pratt. It's just enough ammunition to keep the ball rolling.


"Showtime A--holes!" It is quite possibly the best sci-fi movie. It may even be just as good as the legendary Star Wars and Star Trek. This may be even better than both, I'll let you decide.



Rate: A

Despicable Me 2 (2013)

They're back! The sequel to the 2010 smash hit "Despicable Me", is here and it is bigger and funnier than before. More Minion madness and tons more action. "Despicable Me 2" is one of the best animated films of the decade.

It's an overall feel good movie, (not because of Pharrell singing a happy song) it's still all the while, burst of excitement. You'll try and emulate the actions of Gru and his loyal minions after watching this. DON'T! You haven't seen anything like this since Disney and Pixar's "The Incredibles". It's that good. It's not better than it, it's similar story is what makes it awesome.

Returning to the voice cast, Steve Carell as the Felonious Gru, is as funny as ever.

The animation in the film is eye-poppingly good. It almost makes it look like the characters will jump off screen.

It also offers some great emotional aspects too-(aside from the comedy.) The conflict (emotionally speaking) is one of the other great elements of this film.

What happens when you get James Bond and Mission Impossible and Get Smart rolled into one? You get Despicable Me and it's rewarding sequel of course!





Rate A+

Cars (2006)

Another unique world where something from Toys to Bugs are created and talking and thriving in a society as one. Cars is another prime example of this.

“Cars” seems to be following in the footsteps of predecessors “Toy Story” and “a bug's life” seemingly enough all three films are bringing creatures/objects to life at the amusement, awe of children and adults.

Director John Lasseter, previously helming the “Toy Story” phenomenon, was profusely inspired by old-school California culture, the cars and its designs.

From Toys to Bugs, and now a thriving society of “Cars”. This seems to be a trend with Pixar in recent years, and that's why it's so fascinating to witness such a thing.


Starring: Owen Wilson, Larry the Cable Guy, Bonnie Hunt

Director: John Lasseter

MPAA Rating: G

Runtime: 1 Hour & 57 Minutes

Rate: A-

Beauty and The Beast (2017)

The latest remake to one of Walt Disney’s undeniably charming works, “Beauty and The Beast”, roars and shines with delightful charm. Walt Disney would be just as obsessed with the new film as we all are. Walt Disney had once tried to conjure up the “tale as old as time” in the 1930’s, but we ended up with “Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs”. The “tale as old as time” is not only an achievement for Disney, but, an achievement in family oriented cinema.

It is just as magical as the 1991 original. Though the film is exactly like the animated feature, this tale adds new zing to the story with additional scenes and new emotional ballads. Through the scope of the original, its remake fills in the plot holes of the 1991 original. Not only is that a classic, but this one make a major mark in cinema.

She has certainly made quite a living after bidding adieu to Hogwarts. The one, the only, Hermione Granger, (Oops, I mean Emma Watson) can seriously sing. Not only that, but, her fellow cast members are also musically gifted. The acting on the other hand, may not be as superb shown in other Disney classics. But you can definitely feel the drama playing out in its live-action take.

“Chicago” and “Breaking Dawn” director Bill Condon well puts this tale out in a real world feel.

The sets, costumes (and yes, the houseware) are as beautiful as ever. Just like the beast in the original, it was just as creepy then as it is now. I was just in awe for one, the first time Belle and the Beast danced to the original tune Angela Lansbury (this time around it’s Emma Thompson) sang for the film 26 years ago. And two, the iconic “Be Our Guest” scene. Its computer imagery is breathtaking.

Disney maestro Alan Menken is back. Scoring the remake of the film nearly twenty years following the original. He creates a magical and bright score that makes the film just as beautiful.

Any Shakespeare love line can be imagined as the emphasis for this love story. For she is a bibliophile (Book fanatic, not Bible fanatic). Belle obsesses over Billy Shakespeare, now she’s crazy for a cursed prince who wallows in self loathing and pity.

It all started 80 or so years ago with the Hi-Hoing dwarfs, the Evil Queen and Snow White and the apple that damned her. What was the start of a cultural phenomenon, turned into a frenzy of animated hits and misses following several decades later.

Beauty and The Beast continues to send the fairy tale cult into hyperdrive. Not only was the 1991 classic a phenomenon, but, its live-action counterpart is joining that club. 

Rate: A-

Director: Bill Condon

Starring: Emma Watson, Luke Evans, Dan Stevens, Josh Gad, Kevin Klein,

Runtime: 2 Hours and 9 Minutes

MPAA Rating: PG (for action, violence, peril and frightening images)

Originally published on: http://kanelandkrier.com/category/pulse/the-hollywood-hound/

Photo:  www.movies.disney.com