The Mummy (2017)

Ay Caramba! We've all seen the "Mummy" films starring Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz. But this time around, none of them  return for this take on the mummified demon. It's kind of disappointing because the two were what made the "Mummy" movies good. This time around, you have a weak Tom Cruise- whose character is very pitiful and pride filled. Then you have a sexy british dame Annabelle Wallis- an archaeologist, who really wants to demolish (Sofia Boutella)  hellacious mummy "Ahmenet".  The desert and all other things holy weren't able to save this movie, as those things are what actually kills this film. "The Mummy" is essentially a dried-up, water-drought, evil dead, mediocre action, very cheesy film.

Tom Cruise' worst performance that I have ever seen him in. The only good parts about his presence and the movie in fact, is the infamous zero-gravity plane stint. (Plus a scene in a church-  get those walking corpses outta here!) Annabelle Wallis, Sofia Boutella-(The blade runner from "Kingsman") and Russell Crowe are all dead at the door.

"Transformers" screenwriter Alex Kurtzman helms the film. Kurtzman is not in anyway shape or form a stellar director. This film is just all over the place trying to be a successful film. It doesn't help in Kurtzman's favor. The film as a whole makes the action/science fiction genre look very bad.

The action sequences and script quality are mediocre and bland at best. the script makes the film look more humorous and amusing than action packed. Sweaty and panting Tom Cruise is something we've seen before- (Mission Impossible). But, is him running around London and it doesn't work. It's just in no comparison as awesome as the "Mission Impossible" franchise.

Sitting next to my dad in the auditorium during this movie sat an elder man. Little did I know, that man fell asleep and snored during the films entirety.

Good thing I had zero expectations of excellence for this film. Because, if I had known better, I would've nodded off during this dreadful movie, just like the old man did.











Rate: F 

Director: Alex Kurtzman 

Starring: Tom Cruise, Sofia Boutella, Annabelle Wallis and Russell Crowe

MPAA Rating: PG-13(for violence, action and scary images, and for some suggestive content and partial nudity)

Runtime: 2 Hours 

Synopsis: Tom Cruise headlines a spectacular, all-new cinematic version of the legend that has fascinated cultures all over the world since the dawn of civilization: The Mummy. Thought safely entombed in a tomb deep beneath the unforgiving desert, an ancient princess (Sofia Boutella of Kingsman: The Secret Service and Star Trek Beyond) whose destiny was unjustly taken from her is awakened in our current day, bringing with her malevolence grown over millennia and terrors that defy human comprehension












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.

Wonder Woman (2017)

She came. She saw. And she conquered. For 76 years in the making, the fabulous Diana Prince, aka "Wonder Woman" now gets her highly anticipated big screen debut. Though Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman was seen in last years "Batman Vs. Superman", this film shows her character in a much better light. Even though the films start is a little dull, it gets better from that point on.  This film offers many things that recent films in the "DC Comics" vault did not. "Wonder Woman", is an action-packed, sentimental, and a high octane thriller.

Yes, some of the films brightest and boldest moments were the action sequences. But, the film also has some great humor. Especially, the hilarious one line dialogue. Its cast is supreme in the upbringing of comedic efforts in this movie. The films cast is excellent all around. Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, David Thewlis, and several women in action. They all give performances that keep the film alive and thriving.

Where has director Patty Jenkins been hiding? Her talents for creating an enjoyable superhero film is highly noted. Well crafted as far as the settings and colors go. The action in the film is also great. Something that in recent "DC Comics" films had been lacking. So here, in this film that is a major improvement. A step in the right direction for the films to come for "DC Comics".

You can't expect to see this movie and not here the original "Wonder Woman" theme originally seen in "Batman Vs. Superman". Her theme, curated by none other than film composers Hans Zimmer and Junkie XL, is given a new sound. A twist. With this film being scored by Rupert Gregson-Williams (Hacksaw Ridge), you'd expect nothing less of an upbeat and lively score of music for an action film like this one.

Too bad original Amazonian princess Lynda Carter couldn't receive this treatment way back when- (1970's). But, i'm pretty sure if she did, it wouldn't be as marvelous as this portrayal. I've only seen some of Carters take on Diana, but, it seems to me as if that was a more comedic and sexy, flirtatious act. Gadot manages to maintain all of those qualities as well, but also makes an emotional effort too.

I'm not the kind of moviegoer that obsesses over women directing movies and how there needs to be. But, I am absolutely sold on Patty Jenkins. Her heart, awe, and well.. Wonder of course makes her one of the best directors in superhero films thus far. While you've got Jenkins, on the other hand lets not forget another big part of this film. Gal Gadot. She plays what looks flawless and effortless, Gadot and Jenkins are a dream team pairing.

Her time to shine has come. And oh man does she shine so bright.  That even the God's on Mount Olympus are begging to have Diana do more than they bargained for. Audiences, fans of  "Marvel" and fans of "DC" and the moviegoers who enjoy action-packed films, will be itching to grab tickets to see this wonderful film. Pun intended.


Rate: A 

Starring: Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, Connie Nielsen, Robin Wright, with Danny Huston and David Thewlis 

Director: Patty Jenkins 

MPAA Rating: PG-13-(for sequences of violence and action, and some suggestive content)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 21 Minutes

Synopsis: Before she was Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot), she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior. Raised on a sheltered island paradise, Diana meets an American pilot (Chris Pine) who tells her about the massive conflict that's raging in the outside world. Convinced that she can stop the threat, Diana leaves her home for the first time. Fighting alongside men in a war to end all wars, she finally discovers her full powers and true destiny.

Photo: Warner Bros

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.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (2017)

How much more of Johnny Depp's captain Jack Sparrow do we really need? Considering that "Disney" has made a huge success of this hide tide franchise. I'd say that you can never go wrong with  good ole' Johnny Depp playing a pirate. What makes this franchise so memorable, is its characters, settings, and mismatched teeth, are just some of the reasons why the "Pirates of The Caribbean" franchise is one of "Disney's" most successful films.

Speculated before the films initial release, this sequel would have a similar undertone of the first film in the franchise, 2003's "Curse of the Black Pearl". You would think those speculations to be true. But, I just think that the comparison between the two franchise films doesn't make any difference, reason being is that this series that has captivated audiences for over 14 years. And aren't very different in plot, especially in the franchise's fifth-time's-a-charm.

Unlike the directing talents of prior installments, the directors this time around, unknowables from Norway, Espen Sandberg and Joachim Ronning. The collaborative duo here makes sure that the action in this new round at sea is top-notch without the turbulence. Throughout the franchise, the action was a little rough around the edges. But, the new film however, does show improvement with its action.

Five movies, three composers. Klaus Badelt, Hans Zimmer who have worked on the franchise making the catchy sounds for the franchise in its time at sea, now hand the ship over to Geoff Zaneill. Zaneill makes just as a catchy score for this installment just like Zimmer and Badelt have done. Even so, some of the franchises own themes heard previously, can be heard in this film with Zaneill giving those themes a different edge to the film.

I'm not ever impressed by the acting in these movies, only am I impressed by and entertained by the goofiness and mischief that surrounds each character. In this film, you see new faces, and new foes from a character's past. The franchise sees the returns of alum: Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley and Geoffrey Rush. For the most part, the acting by the returning cast is more dramatic to the story than in prior films.

In this sequel, you will also see newcomers: Kaya Scodelario, Brenton Thwaites, Javier Bardem. Plus a cameo by none other than "Beatles" icon, Paul McCartney. The newcomers acting doesn't impress all but the comedic dialogue. And some of the characters acting and placing in the story fits well for constant drama as well as plot twists.

Thievery, mayhem, chaos and comedy. Ever since the ship first departed at sea, the franchise has had a few sunken ships-rocky waters along the way. But, has that ever stopped "Disney"  from creating something so successful?  I have no doubt in my mind this series will inspire "Disney" and other studios to create more films of this magnitude.



Rate: B 

Director(s):  Espen Sandberg and Joachim Ronning 

Starring: Johnny Depp, Kaya Scodelario, Brenton Thwaites, Javier Bardem. Geoffrey Rush, Orlando Bloom, with Keira Knightley, and Kevin McNally, (Cameo by: Paul McCartney) 

MPAA Rating: PG-13-(for sequences of adventure violence, and some suggestive content)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 9 Minutes 

Photo: Disney

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 Princess Bride (1987)

Once upon a time in a bedroom of a sick boy, lies the tale of romance and action that his grandfather would read to his father. Unlike your traditional love story, this film is consistent in the love story genre, It satisfies audiences at being a film that has action, romance and comedy. "The Princess Bride" is and has always been a classic. It will continue to delight audiences for several years to come.

Robin Wright shines as the shy and feisty Buttercup. She makes her debut in this film and does not cease to entertain. Co-stars  Cary Elwes  and Wallace Shawn are the films comedic pupils. The comedy in this film is unlike anything you've seen in any other romantic, fairy tale flick.

Directed by Rob Reiner. The way Reiner creates such a vintage and highly enjoyable film through depth and creativity seen like never before. The sets in the film are as country as they come. Even though the sets are not as intriguing as the fairy tale kingdoms we've come to know and love in our modern favorites.

Not only is the film a classic in film, but is the ultimate family film. Filled with elements of surprise around every corner. "The Princess Bride"  will continue to be the milestone of romantic films for so many years to come.














Rate: B-

Director: Rob Reiner 

Starring: Robin Wright, Cary Elwes, Wallace Shawn 

Runtime: 1 Hour & 38 Minutes 

MPAA Rating: PG-(for adult situations/language)

Synopsis: Robin Wright and Cary Elwes star in this fairytale adventure about a beautiful princess and the gallant hero who rescues her from an evil villain.




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.

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.