Baby Driver (2017)

It's one of the most original films i've seen in a really long time. "Baby Driver"is without question and uncertainty, what an action film should be. So original, action-packed and highly entertaining, full throttle fun. This film is one of a kind. It is of sorts, an Americanized version of the ultra "Mad Max" films. This film is so unique and possessed with originality that this film is now my number one film (so far) of 2017.

Need I say more? Yes, of course I do. Director Edgar Wright, makes way with an action film that you have to see to believe. He makes the action so authentic that you can easily see that play out well on screen. The action seen in this movie is easily the best of what this year's action films have to offer. The action in this film is without a doubt consistent and is a vital part of the film's success.

As if this film couldn't get any better. This is one of the few films in hollywood that incorporates disability in film. This film includes the actual casting of a real disabled actor. In this film, a deaf man is not one of the main characters, but, is a vital part of the title character.

What's in a score anyway? Well, for this film we have songs inspired by prior decades and filled with pure nostalgia. This film breaks the usual classic composer and score look. The songs featured are its own score, essentially.  Even though the film idolizes song for score, there is indeed a traditional score. That goes along well with the film just as well as the songs.

The acting is great, but not as great as the action. You can see and feel the heart and emotional attitudes on screen with this cast. Sometimes, throughout the film, the acting can get a little overbearing. You'd expect that in a film with guns and bad guys everywhere though.

To make a long story short, the acting is an essential part of this film. Lead star Ansel Elgort (Divergent) does not disappoint. Unlike his prior acting gigs.

Ready. Set. Go! This film is awesome action-packed, funny, and charming. No question. You'd be doing yourself a disservice if you don't see this film. Yes, it's that amazing. I have no doubt in my mind that I won't be the only one talking about this film once more when award season 2018 rolls around.

Rate: A+ 

Director: Edgar Wright 

Starring: Ansel Elgort, Lilly James, Kevin Spacey, with Jamie Foxx and Jon Hamm

MPAA Rating: R-(for violence and language throughout.)

Synopsis: A talented, young getaway driver (Ansel Elgort) relies on the beat of his personal soundtrack to be the best in the game. But after being coerced into working for a crime boss (Kevin Spacey), he must face the music when a doomed heist threatens his life, love, and freedom.

Runtime: 1 Hour and 48 Minutes 

Poster Courtesy of TriStar Pictures 

Dunkirk (2017)

One of my all-time favorite directors, Christopher Nolan, dawns the screen with an emotional, riveting, and captivating essence with this "World War II" dramatic thriller. Unlike other War epics, "Dunkirk" has unrelenting heart and succeeds at as a detailed and emotional film.

However, there is something a little queasy surrounding this film. It's the constant reliability of the open waters of the "English Channel". Nolan proves once again in his film-making, that he is a force to be reckoned with in 21st century cinema and the war film genre.

What makes the film victorious, despite the sense of nausea, is  a beautiful score from frequent collaborator to Nolan, maestro Hans Zimmer. Zimmer uses edge-of-your-seat techniques such as the ticking of a pocket watch, really get the audience in suspense. His score is as thrilling as the film itself. The score is one of the highlights of this film and that's something to keep note of. 

If you don't like a films with little or no dialogue, then, this is not the film for you. I think that because of the persistency of the action and music, this film succeeds on that dialogue dilemma. 

This may come as a shock, but, "One Direction" singer and heartthrob Harry Styles is in this film and does a nice job in his role as a British soldier. He doesn't have many lines but he is as effective as the rest of the films cast. On the other hand, other members of the cast prove to have dramatic influences on the film. 

This film does get a little stressful in the aspects of the suspenseful score and its constant sounds of war. "Dunkirk" has artificial special effects that draw audiences into the film, truly genuine. 

What this film does right is the depiction of such war and destruction. Even though some viewers may not know much about what was known as "Operation Dynamo",this film is an excellent and if not a little stressful reenactment of one of the most sacrificial wars in human history. 

Rate: B 

Photo by: 

Photo: Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros.

Director: Christopher Nolan 

Starring: Fionn Whitehead, Mark Rylance, Harry Styles, Tom Hardy, 

MPAA Rating: PG-13-( for intense war experience and some language) 

Runtime: 1 Hour and 47 Minutes 

Synopsis: Acclaimed auteur Christopher Nolan (Memento, The Prestige, The Dark Knight) wrote and directed this historical thriller about the Dunkirk evacuation during the early days of World War II. When 400,000 British and Allied troops end up trapped on the beaches of Dunkirk, France, following a catastrophic defeat, a number of civilian boats set out to rescue them before they are decimated by the approaching Nazi forces. 

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.

First Appeared on: KanelandKrier.com

Spider Man: Homecoming (2017)

Each and every installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, ("MCU") consistently improves upon its humor. It very refreshing to see in this new "Spider Man" saga. Audiences got a peek at this new spider man in last summer's blockbuster "Captain America: Civil War". Getting his big break, is Brit Tom Holland. He portrays the web-slinging superhero in a marvelous fashion. While donning an American accent.  Holland is much better than Andrew Garfield in the "Amazing Spider Man" and Tobey Maguire in Sam Raimi's "Spider Man" trilogy.  No doubt.

This film is one of the major highlights of the Marvel Studios films and for the summer moviegoing season. For one, it impresses throughout the entirety of the film. Spectacular action sequences and hearty laughs in virtually every scene, make the film continuously enjoyable. Very memorable parts you won't want to miss.

First time Marvel film director Jon Watts, assembles a thoroughly entertaining film. While also managing to shine originality into it. Easy to follow story and some stunning plot revelations, audiences will be gasping for air.

The acting in this "MCU" installment may just be superior to all of its preceding films in the comic-book movie vault at "Marvel". Why, you ask. Well, it's because the characters have wit, heart and fundamental stability that goes into quality acting for a film.

Fairly new Spider Man, aka regular teenager Peter Parker, Tom Holland, is the heart and soul of this film. Also, you have Marisa Tomei, Michael Keaton, Zendaya, Robert Downey Jr. (Reprising his Iron Man, Tony Stark) and Jacob Batalon.

There is an unbreakable connection that is felt between each character that graces the screen. Even if it isn't Holland dazzling audiences, while becoming someone relatable for adolescents.

Music curator Michael Giacchino (Jurassic World, The Incredibles) bursts into the film with similar sounds to that of his prior works.

Spider Man, Spider Man, does whatever Spider Man does. It's just so awesome to see a new and fresh look at an iconic character in a whole new light. This film reaches for new heights for films of superhero, comic book nature. That it'll be really tough for future films to be as delightful as this one.


Rate: A+ 

Director: Jon Watts 

Starring: Tom Holland, Jacob Batalon, Marisa Tomei, Robert Downey Jr., Jon Favreau, Michael Keaton, with Zendaya and Laura Harrier

MPAA Rating: PG-13-(for sci-fi action violence, some language and brief suggestive comments)

 Synopsis: Thrilled by his experience with the Avengers, young Peter Parker returns home to live with his Aunt May. Under the watchful eye of mentor Tony Stark, Parker starts to embrace his newfound identity as Spider-Man. He also tries to return to his normal daily routine -- distracted by thoughts of proving himself to be more than just a friendly neighborhood superhero. Peter must soon put his powers to the test when the evil Vulture emerges to threaten everything that he holds dear.

Runtime: 2 Hours and 14 Minutes 

Photo: Marvel, Columbia and Sony

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.

Despicable Me 3 (2017)

The "Despicable Me" franchise has been a family-friendly sensation since the first film, which debuted 7 years ago. After the successes of the 2013 sequel to the first film, comes a sequel that is surprisingly dull and lacks efforts in comedic realms.

It's really disappointing. But, to be fair, this film wasn't exactly made for teenage and adult audiences. It's meant to be a film for youngsters. In light of these events, the franchise should've stopped at the second film.

I will, however, give directors Kyle Balda, Eric Guillon and Pierre Coffin props for making good action in the film. But, the dialogue isn't well held together with that action. And even franchise veterans: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, and Miranda Cosgrove can't save this lackluster film.

 Even to make matters worse, Trey Parker playing the 80's tv star and villain of the film. This is also a big problem because his character not only sounds like his raunchy "South Park" characters, he is really annoying.

On a more positive note, the action and its color is superb with some improvements to that of the first two installments. These are one of the few helpful things that make the movie better.

References to the 1980's will go right over kids heads. But it will delight adults. Which is another one of the few good qualities about this film.

Also, songs from Pharrell Williams, (who brought "Happy") curates songs and themes for this sequel. They are just as catchy and joyous like the songs from the 2013 sequel. Heitor Pereira returns to score. His score is lively and electric.

It all began 7 years ago. With two sequels, this franchise has become drained with this underwhelming yet somewhat entertaining film. A film that may not be as entertaining to adults than it is to children.  You may slip on a banana peel trying to get a good glimpse at this animated, money making, kid friendly film.

Rate: C- 

Director(s): Kyle Balda, Eric Guillon and Pierre Coffin 

Starring: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Trey Parker, Miranda Cosgrove, Steve Coogan, Jenny Slate 

MPAA Rating: PG- (for action and rude humor)

Runtime: 1 Hour and 30 Minutes 

Synopsis: The mischievous Minions hope that Gru will return to a life of crime after the new boss of the Anti-Villain League fires him. Instead, Gru decides to remain retired and travel to Freedonia to meet his long-lost twin brother for the first time. The reunited siblings soon find themselves in an uneasy alliance to take down the elusive Balthazar Bratt, a former 1980s child star who seeks revenge against the world.

Photo: Universal and Illumination 

Inglourious Basterds (2009)

I am not a fan of Quentin Tarantino, but this film is absolutely amazing. The award-winning World War II drama is a superb, unique and grotesque portrayal of sorts of some of the actual events that occurred.  What really won me over with this film was its incorporation of cinema in a movie about War and of course movies.

It's really interesting, because you have great action sequences in here too. Weird huh? But the glory at the center of this film is the story and its characters. Christoph Waltz's antagonist Hans Landa, is an unsuspecting man of evil desires. There's so much persistency and depth to "Inglourious Basterds" that makes it so memorable.

Tarantino uses quirky and interesting ways at presenting this film. Even though the tedious subtitled European countries languages is used to provide information to audiences, it gets old after awhile.

The acting in the film is just as wonderful as the feature itself. Starring: Brad Pitt, Christoph Waltz, Michael Fassbender and Diane Kruger. They all give outstanding and emotional acting efforts in this film.

Yes, both World Wars were bad. But I bet you've never seen it told like this. This film is an utter sensation and dropping achievement. Totally worth all the accolades it received the year following its release.

Rate: A

Photo: Universal Studios

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.

Speed Racer (2008)

Let's take a trip down memory lane shall we? Based on the 1960's Japanese anime of the same name, "Speed Racer", now gets a live action motion picture of its very own. This movie helmed by The Wachowski Brothers, makers of the "Matrix", comes a similarly assembled feature. In regards to the visuals and approach that is. 2008's "Speed Racer", is a fun and entertaining film, but it suffers heavily on color schemes and overblown CGI.

Aside from that, the film is actually quite interesting. The directors use flashbacks and fast motion camera feels to the film. Adding a unique spin on creating a film like this. I do have to say, the flashbacks and fast forwards get very annoying after awhile.

On the other hand, the acting is not perfect, but the story however gets the acting more in line with things going on.

Some of the most memorable pieces of this film was indeed its visuals. But also the action and score. The action is up there in the better parts to this. The score heard here is dramatic, upbeat, and fast paced. Soots the mood for the film overall.

On your marks. Set. Go! In no way shape or form is this movie spectacular. But, it does advance and reward audiences with great visuals and color. But this isn't enough to save the film from going into a tail spin.

Rate: C

Photo: Village Roadshow Pictures

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.

Cars 3 (2017)

Pixar's "Cars" franchise has had it's ups-and-downs since its first outing back in 2006. Following the first film in the franchise, was a sequel that was the studio's worst reviewed and cost them an Oscar nomination the following year. And for good reason. The third installment of this lucrative series is much better than its 2011 predecessor. This third installment offers the same tone that of the first film and that is refreshing and satisfying for viewers.

 I'd say that this is a pretty big moment in the series. Originating back to the emotional roots of the first film, the third chapter is as emotional, quite possibly even more emotional than the first film that started it all. The story telling in this part of the saga is much more emotional and heartfelt than both of the films prior to this one.

Voicing favorites from the other films once again are, Owen Wilson, Larry the Cable Guy and company all return to star. Also, this third feature, sees the voice talents of newcomers: Armie Hammer, the films antagonist, much like Chick Hicks of the first film. Cristela Alonzo, Nathan Fillion, and "Scandal's" Kerry Washington are superb at the emotional efforts brought into this film.

Some of franchise's prominent characters are barely used. It's kind of like they're there as a placeholder. But, I think that is so the new incoming characters the opportunity to grace the screen. This works well despite the lack of seeing veteran characters.

The film puts its heart and soul into a relationship between McQueen and new character Cruz Ramirez and it works phenomenally.  Director Brian Fee really focuses on that and how that impacts the surrounding characters.

Bittersweet moment for the film when unused audio of Paul Newmans Doc Hudson is used in this film. These moments when his character shows up via flashbacks or is mentioned is truly a shining and memorable part of this film.

As always, "Pixar"  dazzles in the color schemes and depth and detail. It's one of the few other reasons why the film is beautiful.

Ever since the first outing that kickstarted the engines to this saga 11 years ago,  has had its potholes to get back to where it started. This third feature, is as satisfying as the first film even though its approach may not contain as many laughs as the first film. But takes a more emotional and heartfelt approach.

Photo: Pixar/Disney

Rate: B

Director: Brian Fee 

Starring: Owen Wilson, Larry the Cable Guy, Bonnie Hunt, Kerry Washington, Nathan Fillion, Cristela Alonzo, Armie Hammer, Paul Newman-via flashbacks 

MPAA Rating: G 

Runtime: 1 Hour and 49 Minutes 

Synopsis:  Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician, Cruz Ramirez (voice of Cristela Alonzo), with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns. Proving that #95 isn't through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing's biggest stage!

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.