Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse (2018)

Swinging his way into theaters, an all new film on your favorite "Friendly Neighbor Spider-Man". This film marks the 7th depiction of the web-slinging hero and in it's own right serves as a phenomenal tribute to the character in thrilling proportions. It's got it all, action, beautiful animation, an exciting story, humor and heart. This film is perhaps one of the best films to showcase the legendary hero.

This film has an urban feel and it might just be one of the best parts about this film. It is a lot to show in the film's roughly 2 hour run time. It brings excitement to the film and the overall eye candy animation that is sure to wow audiences. The scope of the film is immense and absolutely astonishing.

There's a first for everything. This film offers audiences a fresh portrayal of not only spider-man, but shows audiences one of a less familiar character. What's unique and exciting, is that this is a character that breaks ground by being one of the superhero genres first African American superheroes and lead focus on the film. It's new and a win for different and fresh story ideas. 

The characters in this film are very loveable. You just can't help but like them. They are vital to the film. The films voice cast is tremendous in providing audiences with these wonderful characters. Leading the cast are: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Nicholas Cage, John Mulaney and Liev Schreiber. They are one of this years' best in an animated film. Each actor makes their characters as enthusiastic as possible and that shows. 

With a trio of directors, they put a lot into this film. Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey and Rodney Rothman craft a huge film. They showcase everything in a unique way. Their style is unique in that this film is presented as a comic-book. It's a first for superhero films. 

Not only does this film have it all but its soundtrack is as lively and energetic as the film itself. It is used throughout the film and is extremely effective. Daniel Pemberton crafts a score that's electric and upbeat and is an exciting part of the film because it keeps the film swinging. 

This film is undoubtedly entertaining. It is also very funny. It's approach in humor is natural and fits right into the film. It is able to add to the film. 

This film manages to pull off a great portrayal of its villains. The villains are some of the iconic characters seen in previous spider-man films. Some of them audiences are getting introduced to. The blend of the villains into the films storyline is unique and thrilling. 

This film also pays homage to the Tobey MaGuire Spider-Man trilogy and that's an exciting inclusion of those moments from that film portrayal. It also sentimentally honors the late Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. For "Marvel"  fans, this is truly a very special moment, adding this is a perfect tribute to the late icons. 

Swinging to theaters, is a spider-man film that acts as its own world. It's a vividly striking film and has a sense of a big city feeling but also going beyond that landscape. This film is a landmark achievement in not only animated films but superhero flicks. This film will no doubt lose its spark and will be an enjoyable film for decades to come. 

Photo courtesy of Sony Pictures Animation

Rate: A- 

Directors: Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, Rodney Rothman

Starring: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, John Mulaney, Nicholas Cage, Liev Schreiber

MPAA Rating: PG (for frenetic sequences of animated action violence, thematic elements, and mild language) 

Runtime: 1 Hour and 55 Minutes 

Synopsis: Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the creative minds behind The Lego Movie and 21 Jump Street, bring their unique talents to a fresh vision of a different Spider-Man Universe, with a groundbreaking visual style that's the first of its kind. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse introduces Brooklyn teen Miles Morales, and the limitless possibilities of the Spider-Verse, where more than one can wear the mask.

Aquaman (2018)

He's a fish out of water. After last years "Justice League", member Arthur Curry also known as the "Aquaman" gets his highly anticipated origin story of the ruler of Atlantis. "DC Comics" films have been a hit or miss in the past. With mediocre entries in the "DCEU"-(DC Extended Universe) such as: "Man of Steel" and "Batman Vs. Superman: Dawn Of Justice". On the other hand, you have successful DC films such as the "Dark Knight" trilogy and "Wonder Woman". This film joins the ranks among these films as one of the best films from "DC Comics".

With last years "Justice League" audiences got a glimpse of this films self titled "Aquaman". Now with his own film, we see him and all his glory. Star Jason Momoa is exciting and very and naturally funny as the iconic superhero. He is meant for this role. He brings his all into the character and is physically made just like the hero.

Co-starring alongside Momoa, is Amber Heard. Heard plays the love interest of Aquaman's and is also an atlantean. The two couldn't be a more perfect duo. Heard and Momoa excel in their roles and its shown. They have an undeniable chemistry and are one of the best team-ups in superhero films this year.

Director James Wan crafts a visual masterpiece of epic proportions. This film is probably the most visually stunning film of this year. Maybe the reason it's so stunning because I saw it on the biggest screen possible: "IMAX". This film will be all the more beautiful if you see it on the biggest screen available.

Not only is this film visually provocative, but it is surprisingly very funny. All the elements that were missing in the aforementioned films are all present in this film. Humor, heart, stunning set pieces and a phenomenal cast, what more could you want?

Orchestrating the films score, is Rupert Gregson-Williams. Gregson-Williams does a great job with this score. It is electric and fast paced. Keeps the energy alive from start to finish. It is one of the best scores of this year.

Two worlds, one hero. Despite a few films lacking quality, this film makes up for those everso promising films. This film has more than expected which was surprising and fun to not know what to expect, given I had mixed feelings prior to seeing this film, but when I left the theater I was in awe because I ended up being blown away.  "Aquaman" makes a huge splash with audiences and is perhaps the best film in the "DC Films" filmography thus far.

Photo courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures

Rate: A 

Director: James Wan 

Starring: Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Nicole Kidman, Willem Dafoe, Patrick Wilson

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

Runtime: 2 Hours & 22 Minutes 

Synopsis: From Warner Bros. Pictures and director James Wan comes an action-packed adventure that spans the vast, visually breathtaking underwater world of the seven seas, "Aquaman," starring Jason Momoa in the title role. The film reveals the origin story of half-human, half-Atlantean Arthur Curry and takes him on the journey of his lifetime--one that will not only force him to face who he really is, but to discover if he is worthy of who he was born to be... a king.

Mowgli: Legend of The Jungle (2018)

One of the most over adapted into films ever, gets  yet another film on the same "Jungle Book" story. It is very promising but is just another adaption of the works of Rudyard Kipling. That being said, this film is over dramatic and muddled with no development and offers no exciting original story. This film was originally going to be in theaters but went on Netflix instead. In my opinion, that was a very smart move. Otherwise, this film would've been a box office disaster.

The voice acting couldn't be more over the top. Leads: Christian Bale, Cate Blanchett and director of the film, Andy Serkis waste valuable time for audiences, when they could be doing better films. If this year brings some of the worst films cast, this film would be on that list.

Jack of all trades and director Andy Serkis makes one of the worst films of the year. It has however, a nice blend of color and action sequences but it's not enough to combat that weak and empty screenplay that possesses no positive qualities.

Not only does the films cast do a mediocre job at the voice acting, but granted that the story surrounds a boy raised in the wild, the young actor doesn't quite keep the pace between his animal characters and fellow cast members.

Running amok in the jungle needs to have some score right? Well, it does. It's scored by Nitin Sawhney. Sawhney makes an impressive score filled with up beat and fast paced qualities that might be too fast for the film itself.

One of the most overdone stories to get adapted to the big screen, the story of the "Jungle Book" and its new adaption is annoying at best with dazzling set pieces but it doesn't meet up to previous works of the tale such as the original 1960's adaptation by "Disney" and the live action remake in 2016.

Photo courtesy of Netflix

Rate: D+

Director: Andy Serkis

Starring: Andy Serkis, Christian Bale, Rohan Chand. Cate Blanchett 

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for intense sequences of action violence including bloody images, and some thematic elements) 

Runtime: 1 Hour and 45 Minutes

Synopsis: Acclaimed actor and director Andy Serkis reinvents Rudyard Kipling's beloved masterpiece, in which a boy torn between two worlds accepts his destiny and becomes a legend. Mowgli (Rohan Chand) has never truly belonged in either the wilds of the jungle or the civilized world of man. Now he must navigate the inherent dangers of each on a journey to discover where he truly belongs. Christian Bale, Cate Blanchett, Benedict Cumberbatch, Andy Serkis, Freida Pinto, Rohan Chand, Matthew Rhys and Naomie Harris lead an all-star cast in this visually spectacular and emotionally moving adventure.

Ralph Breaks The Internet (2018)

One of the most original Disney films, "Wreck it Ralph", gets a unique and whimsy sequel. Disney has always brought audiences films of beauty and awe. This film is no exception. This film is wonderful in every sense of the word. Hidden beneath the glitz and glamour lies a stubble of an opening sequence that is good but could've been better. With both this film and its predecessor, Disney doesn't disappoint with a satisfying sequel that may not be quite as fun as its original.

This film offers audiences a whole new setting while making a vast universe of an animated version of the internet. It's just so fascinating to see what these filmmakers are able to come up with. This film has more to meets the eye, more than its predecessor in regards to attention to detail and craft. Audiences will no doubt fall in love with this sequel.

Directors Rich Moore and Phil Johnston craft a funny and beautiful film. They make this film even more eye popping than the first installment. The humor and heart in this film is undeniably charming. Viewers of all ages will appreciate those elements of entertainment.

This film has a voice cast that is as energetic as the characters they play. Returning stars John C. Reilly and Sarah Silverman are back better than ever. They are a comedic duo unlike any film from Disney. They bring joy and warmth to this film that is everso needed to be a true family film. With newcomers Gal Gadot, Bill Hader and Taraji P. Henson, they are joyful companions to this film along with franchise favorites.

One of this films best parts are the appearance of every Disney princess with every original voice dating back to Jodi Benson aka Ariel. The fact that they are in this film, makes this film all the more fun and exciting, even if they are not an integral part of the film itself. Second, are the vast amounts of popular culture featured in this film. This film serves as a societal work of cinema that yearns to be noticed. Last, is the touching, yet brief cameo from the late Marvel big man, Stan Lee. Having this be one of Lee's final appearances in film, makes this film all the more sentimental.

Like the original, this film offers commentary on important social issues like: Friendship and heartbreak. This is one of the best things a film can do, is provide audiences, especially audiences tailored to children are sentimental and offer audiences the chance to grow as humans.

Returning to score the film, is Henry Jackman. Jackman approves upon his work from the original film. He adds an upbeat and electronic sound composition, that is as electrifying and enjoyable as the film.

Audiences across the world have waited six long years for the next chapter in adventures of Ralph and company. This film is undeniably charming, heartwarming and full of belly laughing humor. Though this film has some spots of fatigue, it's another crowd pleaser from the folks at Disney.


Rate: B+ 

Directors: Rich Moore and Phil Johnston

Starring: John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Bill Hader, Gal Gadot, Jack McBrayer and Jane Lynch

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

Runtime: 1 Hour and 52 Minutes 

Synopsis: In "Ralph Breaks the Internet," video-game bad guy Ralph (voice of John C. Reilly) and best friend Vanellope von Schweetz (voice of Sarah Silverman) leave the comforts of Litwak's arcade in an attempt to save her game, Sugar Rush. Their quest takes them to the vast, uncharted world of the internet where they rely on the citizens of the internet--the Netizens--to help navigate their way. Lending a virtual hand are Yesss (voice of Taraji P. Henson), the head algorithm and the heart and soul of the trend-making site "BuzzzTube," and Shank (voice of Gal Gadot), a tough-as-nails driver from a gritty online auto-racing game called Slaughter Race, a place Vanellope wholeheartedly embraces--so much so that Ralph worries he may lose the only friend he's ever had.

Photo courtesy of Disney

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Grindelwald (2018)

J.K Rowling's ultra-popular "Wizarding World" has taken the world by storm. For almost 20 years, her magical works have entertained millions worldwide. With this being the second film in the spin-off series, "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald", is another magical film entry into the self proclaimed "Wizarding World", but isn't as thoroughly enjoyable as "Fantastic Beasts & Where To Find Them". 

Unlike the predecessor, the follow-up is slow to start, drags on a little but is entertaining, even if it's not the likes of the 2016 film. David Yates director of the film, is no stranger to directing films in this saga. For this film, he ups the magic, and adds compelling set pieces and a riveting story, that may consist of wandering off abruptly with plot and story holes. This sequel will do anything and [succeedingly] cater to the fans of the beloved films. 

Resuming his magical duties as Newt Scamander once again is Eddie Redmayne. Redmayne gives another charming go at Scamander. Co-starring alongside him are returning cast members: Katherine Waterston, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol and playing the eponymous foe, Grindelwald, Johnny Depp. Viewers also see the likes of characters they've seen before and some that get a backstory. Playing a young Professor Dumbledore is Jude Law and playing the cursed woman who turns into a snake, [Voldemort's Nagini] is Claudia Kim. This cast is a magical one even if the performances get a little dry and boring at times. 

One of the best parts about this film, is not only its special effects, but a riveting story and adds more to character arcs and offers audiences an ending you did not see coming. You'll be begging for more once it ends. 

Giving the film a magical score once more, is film composer James Newton-Howard. Howard makes a lively and contemporary plethora of scores to accompany the film and all of its magic. [Howard]  also brings in a new spin on the iconic "Harry Potter" theme made famous by John Williams. 

This franchise has been known for its stunning special effects and CGI, this film adds even more stunning and creative creatures that fit right into the zest of any installments in the franchise. This film boasts its creativity and special effects constantly, which audiences will enjoy. 

Creating magic, one filmmaker at a time. This film is delightful in its presentation and succeeds in offering more to audiences as far as character development goes. Despite the lack of a consistent wow factor, and a slow start, this film is another magical achievement in the "Wizarding World" even if it doesn't quite make the mark that the other films in the saga had made. 

Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. 

Rate: B- 

Director: David Yates 

Starring: Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston, Johnny Depp, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol

MPAA Rating: PG-13-(for sequences of fantasy action)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 15 Minutes

Synopsis: In an effort to thwart Grindelwald's plans of raising pure-blood wizards to rule over all non-magical beings, Albus Dumbledore enlists his former student Newt Scamander, who agrees to help, unaware of the dangers that lie ahead. Lines are drawn as love and loyalty are tested, even among the truest friends and family, in an increasingly divided wizarding world.

Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)

One of the most prolific singers of all time and the frontman of Queen, Freddie Mercury, gets a highly anticipated film. While watching this film, you feel as if you are at one of the many concerts. The overall excitement and heart this film has is astounding. This film gives audiences an inside look at the upbringing one of rocks most flamboyant singers of all time. One of the most iconic rock bands of all time gets the film treatment it so long deserved.

Is there anyone who could possibly resemble the iconic singer in such a way? Not only does Rami Malek (Mr. Robot) resemble the late singer, he plays him in an unbelievable way. Malek puts all into this take on as Queen's leading man. Not only does Malek look like the iconic singer, but the rest of the cast resemble their real-life counterparts.

X-Men director Bryan Singer helms this biopic. Singer crafts an amazing film with depth and realness that make this film resonate with those who grew up with the sounds of Queen and those who didn't. Singer has made one of his best films to-date. The utter flashiness of the film is a sight to see and is one hell of a ride.

Though this film doesn't have a score, it has the discography of the band instead. The film uses the bands hit songs in a way that is uniquely fit in the film and also gives viewers an inside look at the crafting of each iconic song.

Mercury was a very eccentric and undoubtedly fashionable man. This film shows audiences that very aspect of the singer, while also adding a comedic light to all of the film, which is successfully incorporated here.

This film not only delves into the early days of Queen, but also the life of leading man Freddie. He's considered to be a gay-icon for many people but also a person who couldn't give a damn what people thought of him. What's so inspiring about this film is the struggle of the band in their early days. They faced adversity head on and overcame that flawlessly. Seeing this portrayed in film is unique and empowering.

"We will. we will. rock you!" One of the most iconic bands of all time gets the film treatment long overdue. You will be rockin' out to the film as this isn't just a biographical film, but a concert film. Showcasing the roller coaster career and personal life of Freddie is one of the greatest parts of this film. So grab your tickets to this film, because you'll want to see just how amazing this band and leading man Freddie Mercury really are.

Photo courtesy of Twentieth Century Fox

Rate: A 

Director: Bryan Singer 

Starring: Rami Malek, Lucy Boynton, Ben Hardy, Mike Myers, with Joseph Mazzello and Gwilym Lee

MPAA Rating: PG-13 -(for thematic elements,suggestive material, drug content and language) 

Runtime: 2 Hours & 15 Minutes 

Synopsis: Bohemian Rhapsody is a foot-stomping celebration of Queen, their music and their extraordinary lead singer Freddie Mercury, who defied stereotypes and shattered convention to become one of the most beloved entertainers on the planet. The film traces the meteoric rise of the band through their iconic songs and revolutionary sound, their near-implosion as Mercury's lifestyle spirals out of control, and their triumphant reunion on the eve of Live Aid, where Mercury, facing a life-threatening illness, leads the band in one of the greatest performances in the history of rock music. In the process, cementing the legacy of a band that were always more like a family, and who continue to inspire outsiders, dreamers and music lovers to this day.

Halloween (2018)

In my review of the original film, I hated on it, that all changed dramatically when I saw this sequel 40 years in the making. This film unlike its predecessor, is an entertaining film with quality. Yeah, given this films genre and the title, it's supposed to be scary as hell, but, it's actually a thrilling film with suspense.

This film has a lot to offer, given the 40 year wait for the reunion of the Shape aka (Michael Myers) and Laurie Strode. This film has at all, frights, edginess, suspense, and action sequences that are some of the best parts of the film. Halloween is a phenomenal film, which is one of the best films of the year by far. 

This film has a very effective use of flashbacks to the 78' original. Flashbacks to the very beginning to where Michael killed his first victim. The flashbacks really help the film be as thrilling as if they weren't included.

Taking over the directing duties from jack-of-all trades John Carpenter, is David Gordon Green. Green makes a thrilling film, while still encompassing the style of Carpenters directing style. Green has made an authentic film that offers more thrilling and suspenseful qualities than frights. 

When the original film came out in 1978, this was the first film audiences saw Jamie-Lee Curtis. Her character is a frightened woman forty years after Michael's demise, her granddaughter is now put in her position. Laurie, who's been suffering from agoraphobia since that Halloween night 40 years ago, is now ready for him to escape that mental institution. 

Lee-Curtis does a great job in this film, way better than the original. Co-starring opposite Jamie-Lee Curtis, is the original Michael Myers actor, Nick Castle, Lee-Curtis' daughter on screen, Judy Greer and the granddaughter played by newcomer Andi Matichak. This cast does a great job at providing audiences with genuine performance and depth and curiosity. 

Once again crafting an iconic score, is not only the creator of the franchise, John Carpenter, but his son Cody, and composer Daniel Davies. The films score is electric and edgy. The trio of composers put a modernized twist into Carpenters iconic theme while bringing a new edge of sound to the film. 

The Halloween film genre can be a hit or a miss. But, this film is a total hit. This film is an outstanding film, its got edge and depth and complexity that you usually don't see in a film of this caliber. The direct follow-up of the 1978 original Halloween, does not disappoint. 

Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures and Blumhouse Productions

Rate: B+ 

Director: David Gordon Green

Starring: Jamie-Lee Curtis, Nick Castle, Judy Greer and Andi Matichak

MPAA Rating: R-(for horror violence and bloody images, language, brief drug use and nudity) 

Synopsis: Jamie Lee Curtis returns to her iconic role as Laurie Strode, who comes to her final confrontation with Michael Myers, the masked figure who has haunted her since she narrowly escaped his killing spree on Halloween night four decades ago.

Runtime: 1 Hour & 45 Minutes