Ferdinand (2017)

He's a social outcast, a softy, and a flower bull-(meaning that he likes to sniff any flower he sees.) But most of all, he is a bull with a big heart. Based on the children's book, this animated adaptation is filled with splendor. It's got an emotional side of animated films not seen since "UP". Adventure is definitely out there for the "big little guy".

What's great about this film is that it has something for everyone. The adult humor in this will go right over youngsters heads, like a scene in which Ferdinand is literally a "Bull in a China shop". He was made to be terrifying and born to fight. He decides that he doesn't want to live that traditional life. From the makers of "Ice Age" , comes a children's film for the ages.

What makes this film wonderful, is the craft and overall presentation of what the film is. Veteran "Blue Sky" director Carlos Saldanha uses the source material to depict the film as accurate as possible. I didn't read the book when I was little, but, this film serves as a substitute for that. The animation in this film is spectacular. The detail Saldanha has here is very intriguing. I was in awe of the animated the whole time.

The cast of the film is very unique in the ways of energy brought to the film. John Cena plays the title character in charming fashion. He has energy and charisma with the experience of being in a kids atmosphere, (He has hosted Nickelodeon's Kids Choice Awards). He just comes across as a cheery and all around fun guy when you hear him in this film.

Also starring is the ever so funny Kate McKinnon who we saw in last years (Angry Birds Movie). She is at the hip of our main man, or bull I should say, during his ups and downs. You also have newcomer Lily Day. Day, who plays "Nina", Ferdinand's owner, does an excellent job at adding constant emotional effects to the film and to the other characters.

Not only does this film have adult humor and emotional plots, it has action. The action in this movie is stellar (for a children's film). But, adults can enjoy it as much as the little ones.

To go right along with the action, emotional aspects and humor, John Powell creates a score that keeps audiences on their toes. Also with the addition of an original tune by Nick Jonas, that is very upbeat and makes the film more on its toes.

Hidden in the film, are some lessons for youngsters but also for teens and adults. Such take away themes would be: Be different. Don't listen to those who try and bring you down. Make your path. We see this evidently in the eyes of Ferdinand, which makes this film ultimately special. is the themes hidden within it.

Mess with the bull, you're gonna get the horns. This metaphor is taken quite literally, because of the nature of the film. 2017 hasn't seen the likes of many animated films. But, it's refreshing to see that this film marks as one of the years best animated films.

Photo courtesy of Blue Sky Studios

Rate: A-

Director: Carlos Saldanha 

Starring: John Cena, Kate McKinnon, Anthony Anderson, with Lily Day and Bobby Cannavale

MPAA Rating:  PG (for rude humor, action and some thematic elements)

Runtime: 1 Hour and 45 Minutes 

Synopsis: A giant but gentle bull must find a way to break free from his captors and return home to his family.

 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.

Get Out (2017)

The one movie this year that is psychologically twisted, and thought-provoking. It is a movie that toys with your inner mind and thought, with so much originality and depth making it all the more memorable. What this film triumphs at, is the constant sense of depth and a riveting narrative to play out on screen. Unlike Christopher Nolan's "Inception", this film has heart, humor and twists at every corner, like "you didn't see that coming!" It was unknown to me that a film of this kind could be as entertaining, while tackling some touchy issues like racism and slavery.

I was impressed beyond belief. For his directorial debut, half of the comedic duo Key and Peele, Jordan Peele. Peele crafts an immense film, in regards to the subject, story line and characters. He certainly has made a name for himself as a director.  He does whatever he can to get audiences talking. It works to the highest level. I know that I will remember this film for a long time.

Practically new to the screen, Daniel Kaluuya  shines as the protagonist of this film. He shines in the seriousness that surrounds this film and all around plays his character in an emotional way. While also bringing humor and a lighter side to the film. Opposite Kaluuya, is Allison Williams-(Yes, she's the daughter of disgraced journalist Brian Williams.) Williams plays a charming woman who is in a relationship with Kaluuya's character. Come to find out that she is more than meets the eye. Her character is the least you'd suspect of being someone else. Just you wait.

Also starring in the film is Catherine Keener. She plays Williams on screen mom and she is just as psychotic as her daughter. Keener's character is a therapist who specializes in hypnosis. What's even more terrifying, is that her character manipulates the senses of our leading man. It's so intriguing to see the effects of something as satanic as hypnosis can really be.

The film starts off in the night, an incident, for whatever reason, occurs and it has an edge-of-your-seat, gnawing on your nails feeling. You just saw something unbelievable, and you want answers to that stunning turn of events.

A haunting and suspenseful composition crafted Michael Abels, is at the epicenter of all the films madness. It works so beautifully, that it makes the film even more shocking than ever. With the elements of whispering and the traditional horror film score vibe-(The Exorcist and Jaws), this score gets the job done with getting audiences on the edge-out-their seats.

This film jumps right into the deep end, in regards to the touchy issues I mentioned earlier. This film has done an outstanding job at keeping its audience engaged and curious about what will happen next. It successes are at the center of its subject matter and the way it was presented.As a result of what I think is a politically unbiased, and conversation starter film, "Get Out" is my number one favorite film, praise or down right horrible, this film has rightfully earned all the praise, and its spot in the cinema archives as being one of the 21st century's best cinematic experiences.

Rate: A+ 
                 

Photo Courtesy of Universal Pictures

Director: Jordan Peele

Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams, Catherine Keener, Bradley Whitford, with Caleb Landry Jones and Stephen Root 

MPAA Rating R-(for violence, bloody images, and language including sexual references)                                                                                                                                                                
Runtime: 1 Hour and 45 Minutes

Synopsis: 
Now that Chris (Daniel Kaluuya) and his girlfriend, Rose (Allison Williams), have reached the meet-the-parents milestone of dating, she invites him for a weekend getaway upstate with Missy and Dean. At first, Chris reads the family's overly accommodating behavior as nervous attempts to deal with their daughter's interracial relationship, but as the weekend progresses, a series of increasingly disturbing discoveries lead him to a truth that he never could have imagined.                                                                                                                                                                                                  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.
                                                                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

Justice League (2017)

Justice League (2017)

Photo courtesy of DC Films

SCORE: A Film Music Documentary (2017)

It is one of the most essential pieces of a film. The film score. It's like the buns on a burger. You need something to hold it together for stability. That's what film scores do. The hold the movie in perfect balance-(Or at least try to). No film that I have seen would ever be as successful without the music. It just wouldn't be the same. The effect of the film would be minimal. I personally think that a film cannot work with out a score. This film documents the blood, sweat and tears that composers have to endure with making the perfect score.

Some of cinemas most well known music makers such as: Hans Zimmer, Tom Holkenborg(Junkie XL), John Williams and Danny Elfman reveal their experiences as renowned film composers and what challenges they face on their films. Director Matt Schrader, erects a film unlike any other. For those who are curious enough to know about the process of composing film music, this film has all the informative aspects you will need.

Every time you watch a movie, you can't help but feel some emotional connection to the score. That is what they intended to do with audiences right? I know I do. Especially when I watch films with Zimmer and Williams scores. They draw you in like you wouldn't believe. They make the films more exciting as if the film is alive.

You can't go inside a cinema thinking you don't feel some kind of reaction from the scores. Because if you say no, you're lying to yourself. This is a unique genre of music that stretches beyond the cinema scope and to the lands off screen.

Film scores are what make up the background of the film. They are essential in ways that make their films all the more meaningful. That's what makes this genre of music, element of film, and the curators so special, is that they all have the power to make a film spectacular. We have to owe it to these incredible maestros. Otherwise, our cinematic experiences would be completely different.

Rate: A+

Photo courtesy of Gravitas Ventures 

Spielberg (2017)

When you think  of a Steven Spielberg movie, what first comes to mind? "Jurassic Park. ET? Jaws?" Whatever it is, he has made an impact on your cinema experience.  He is considered the greatest director who's ever lived. Rightfully so. Famed director Steven Spielberg, has spanned some 40 years in the film industry. with some critically acclaimed and controversial films. He is no doubt mine and millions of others favorite directors.

In this tell all, Spielberg unloads the secrets and drawbacks to his illustrious career as one of the most celebrated film directors of our time. It is unreal to see with all its fascination. This film is one of the best documentaries I have ever seen and possibly the best movie of 2017 for me. (Sorry Baby Driver).

What makes this film so unique, is the beauty and joy that he brings to his stories and how he came to be. Director Susan Lacy, crafts a special film that those who've followed him from his earlier days, will find sentimental value. From close friends, family and fellow Directors, their insight to this cinematic artistic genius is truly inspiring. Especially with the commentary of Spielberg himself.

All the while, this film acts as a motivation for future directors and anyone who wants to be in the film industry-(like myself). It does so well in the emotional impact it has on viewers. This film is truly remarkable and touching in ways that I wanted to learn more about him and crave his advice so deeply.

Photo courtesy of HBO

Rate: A 

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.

Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

Since the Thor franchise kicked off in 2011, its films have been a huge let down for fans of the “God of Thunder” and Marvel films in general. Audiences now have a third film to see Chris Hemsworth in action as the eponymous character the film is based on. I was never a huge fan of this film franchise, but I’m glad that the series has redeemed itself with this installment.

Throughout the series, the films have been more serious and overly dramatic while offering little comedic efforts. This film manages to pull off all elements in spectacular fashion. Not only did the action draw me into this film, but it’s improvised humor and dialogue was absolutely astonishing. I was laughing during the entire film. It’s that hilarious.

Director Taika Waititi does an awesome job crafting the film while showcasing all its genuine glory.  You can see it play out on screen. The comedic elements in this film made it not only more memorable than other Marvel films,  but this film is the funniest of all prior Marvel films up to this point.

Not only does the film succeed on hilarity, but its action creates memorable parts to the film as well. The action is everywhere and colorful; it’s a job well done. This film’s cast brings action and comedy to new heights. I won’t give anything away, but Hulk stands out as the major comedic relief here. And it’s utterly fantastic.

An 80’s video game, Esq Score by Mark Mothersbaugh, is also an important part of the success of the film. It electrifies every scene that shines on the screen. This score is a wonderful combination of the scenes in the film, hilarious or not. This film also features a popular Led Zeppelin song that acts in place of the score for some action sequences. 

Bravo Marvel! The studio and the film’s director made a film that has everything a fan of superhero movies could ever want. It’s so satisfying because of everything this film has. Making it my favorite film unearthed from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios 

Blade Runner 2049 (2017)

It was basically the "Terminator", but focuses more so on the sci-fi parts rather than the characters. Don't get me wrong, it was a good film, just not spectacular in anyway. This film sequel to the 1982 predecessor, may entertain fans of the prior film, and those who have a hankering for sci-fi films. "Blade Runner" is based on Philip K. Dicks groundbreaking novel. It's not extraordinary,  it's just meh.

In 2049, I'll be 49. And I have no doubt the world I live in today will be completely different when that year comes. Like the Arnold Schwarzenegger hit, this film has robots disguised as humans. They are known as "replicants". But unlike the famed Schwarzenegger films, this film lacks heavily on depth, character evolvement and story development.

Arrival director  Denis Villeneuve helms the long awaited sequel to the 1982 film. He achieves the ultimate goal of entertaining audiences, but something's missing. Other sci-fi films, like "Arrival", succeed in the areas this film failed to.

Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford walk into a bar... You better expect some saloon type showdown. I feel sorry for the person wanting to pick a fight with either of two. Oh wait! No, I'm not. Ye who casts the first stone gets what is coming for em.

The two pair up and it's not as exciting as advertised. Shame! Ford's character is old and senile. Gosling on the other hand, is just as miserable as Ford's guy. So, minus ten more points for Gryffindor! Wait, this isn't Harry Potter.  It's still doesn't provide quality acting even for small moments like: laughs and emotion. Ugh! NEXT!

Quite possibly the best part of this movie-(aside from action goes) is the yet again brilliant Hans Zimmer crafting (at the last minute. Original composer Johann Johannsson left the project) an eerie, futuristic kind of sound. It's one of Zimmer's more achievable scores than we've heard recently.

For a runtime of two and a half hours, you'd think I'd be in for a treat. But, since my expectations were too much to handle for this film, I'd say this is like a few other 2017 film flops. There are better films in this genre anyway.

Rate: C- 

Director: Denis Villeneuve 

Starring: Ryan Gosling, Harrison Ford, Robin Wright, Jared Leto

MPAA Rating: R-(for violence, some sexuality, nudity and language)

Photo Courtesy of Warner Bros 

Synopsis: 
Thirty years after the events of the first film, a new blade runner, LAPD Officer K (Ryan Gosling), unearths a long-buried secret that has the potential to plunge what's left of society into chaos. K's discovery leads him on a quest to find Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford), a former LAPD blade runner who has been missing for 30 years.

Runtime: 2 Hours and 44 Minutes