Joker (2019)

When it was first announced that a film would be made on the iconic “Joker” and serve as a backstory, I was annoyed. For one, because Heath Ledger’s masterful performance as the character in Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight”, was and still is the single greatest portrayal of the iconic villain. My negative thoughts on this new film completely changed when this film took me by utter surprise. This film is stunning to the highest level. What this film manages to do so masterfully is pull off the most in-depth character study in all of comic book films.

This film from start to finish is simply eerily mesmerizing. It is unlike any other comic book-based film because this film is one of the darkest most foreboding film in the comic book film genre. The film not only is an in-depth character study, it is an impressive and grim look at the psychology of the title character.

Director Todd Phillips crafts one hell of a film. His vision for the film is bold and shocking to say the least. It is a groundbreaking film achievement in comic book cinema. This film is a dark and dedicated film that shows us how the “Joker” came to be. Phillips outdoes himself and shows his true visionary capabilities.

All I can say is wow! Joaquin Phoenix pulls off the impossible by exceeding expectations. He would’ve certainly made Heath Ledger proud. There are two big differences between Ledgers and Phoenix’s portrayal of the iconic character. Ledger’s was more on the hellbent on chaos and a new world order based on anarchy. On the other hand, Phoenix makes a performance that is as psychologically twisted but more on the mental breakdown of the character.

Composer ‎Hildur Guðnadóttir crafts a haunting and eerie score for a film that is as haunting as the film itself. He makes the film more haunting and darker as possible and it shows all throughout the film with the cello solos making the film more gripping. Though the score isn’t as haunting as Hans Zimmer & James Newton-Howard’s craft of “The Dark Knight”, this film score acts yet another haunting sound that is perfect for this film.

Though this film is almost perfect, the film starts a little slow with some pacing issues and progression throughout. It does make up with its dark comedy and action sequences, along with the score.

One of “Batman’s” most iconic foes, finally gets his silver screen origin story of his very own. What makes as a fantastic film, it sets the stage as a landmark achievement in comic book cinema. I have no doubt that this film and Joaquín Phoenix’s take on the “Joker” will be memorable for years to come.

Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. 

Rate B+

Director: Todd Phillips 

Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Zazie Beetz, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen and Robert DeNiro

MPAA Rating: R (for strong bloody violence, disturbing behavior, language and brief sexual images)

Runtime: 2 Hours & 2 Minutes 

Synopsis:  Forever alone in a crowd, failed comedian Arthur Fleck seeks connection as he walks the streets of Gotham City. Arthur wears two masks -- the one he paints for his day job as a clown, and the guise he projects in a futile attempt to feel like he's part of the world around him. Isolated, bullied and disregarded by society, Fleck begins a slow descent into madness as he transforms into the criminal mastermind known as the Joker.

It: Chapter 2 (2019)

Following the success of the 2017 remake of the horrifying best-selling Stephen King novel “IT”, comes part two of the story and a much more thrilling and horrifying installment. This film is one of the longer films in the horror genre that drags on quite awhile before things get interesting and more entertaining.Though the film is longer than expected and slow at times, this sequel is better than 2017’s “It Chapter One”, in that it is more horrifying and suspenseful. The film is without a doubt one of the best horror films of the year so far and it shows. 

Director Andy Muschietti returns to make audiences even more frightened than ever before. He tuns it up a notch and delivers an even bigger scare factor than the films predecessor. It is bold, big and heartfelt. What Muschietti manages to do here is make a bigger more thrilling film. The dialogue is strong, and the cast delivers with strong emotion. It’s driven by a force of power that possesses the entire film.

The grown “Losers” are played by an impeccably chosen cast. Leading the charge to defeat “IT” once and for all are: James McAvoy, Jessica Chastain and Bill Hader. They deliver some of the best performances of the year and with heart and passion, they succeed. On top of their performances, returning to terrify audiences once again as the title character, Bill Skarsgard does it again even more terrifying and sadistic than in the first film.  

Returning composer Benjamin Wallfisch makes yet another thrilling and chilling score. Just like the first film, Wallfisch makes the film even more terrifying and haunting than before.

One of the best parts of this film is that it’s hilarious and that is partially due to Bill Hader’s role as “Loser” Richie. He pulls off one of and if not the best role in any film he’s been in ever. It’s a standout performance and no doubt memorable.  Skarsgard’s go-round once again as the terrifying Clown, is also a standout and extremely hilarious on top of the scare factor with the character.

Despite the slow pace and the massive runtime of 2 hours and 50 minutes, the film is still enjoyable. The film bounces back to where the film isn’t too overblown with uselessness that just is there to fill the film to enhance the film overall. 

It’s perhaps one of the most legendary of horror films, let alone novels with classic villains. Though it is better than the first one and the original 1990 miniseries, this film is just another entertaining film for fans of Stephen King, his bestselling novel and horror films alike.

Photo courtesy of New Line Cinema and Warner Bros.

Rate: B

Director: Andy Muschietti

Starring: James McAvoy, Jessica Chastain, Bill Hader and Bill Skarsgard

MPAA Rating: R (for disturbing violent content and bloody images throughout, pervasive language, and some crude sexual material)

Synopsis: Evil resurfaces in Derry as director Andy Muschietti reunites the Losers Club in a return to where it all began with "IT Chapter Two," the conclusion to the highest-grossing horror film of all time. Twenty-seven years after the Losers Club defeated Pennywise, he has returned to terrorize the town of Derry once more. Now adults, the Losers have long since gone their separate ways. However, kids are disappearing again, so Mike, the only one of the group to remain in their hometown, calls the others home. Damaged by the experiences of their past, they must each conquer their deepest fears to destroy Pennywise once and for all...putting them directly in the path of the clown that has become deadlier than ever.

Runtime: 2 Hours & 50 Minutes

The Angry Birds Movie 2 (2019)

It’s one of the worst genres of films to ever exist… the video game genre. Most of, if not all the video game-based films have been downright awful and should never be watched. But what’s surprising is that one video game-based film franchise is entertaining and worth watching. Based off the mega-popular mobile app game “Angry Birds” comes a sequel to the 2016 film based on the game. Like the first film, this sequel is fun, hilarious and action-packed.

It has something for both adults and kids alike. Both this film and its predecessor are entertaining, but this film is better than the first one because it has more humor, heart and action than the first one. This film is an unlikely surprise in a positive way. It will no doubt be regarded as one of the best animated films of the year.

The film’s voice cast is without a doubt a great one. With returning cast members: Jason Sudeikis, Josh Gad and Danny McBride playing the main characters and famous birds, (Red, the yellow bird, named Chuck and Bomb). They are one funny trio of actors that bring laughs to the audience so seamlessly effortless.

Alongside the main cast are Leslie Jones “Saturday Night Live”, Maya Rudolph “Bridesmaids”, Bill Hader “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” and Peter Dinklage “Game of Thrones”. As if this film couldn’t have a better lineup of comedic actors that are a joy in this film and bring their talents in full swing. Each and everyone of the actors give exciting performances that are beyond fun.

Making his debut, director Thurop Van Orman, swings his way into the film by crafting a stunning and beautifully executed film. It’s even more beautiful than the first film by a long shot. The film is also very funny. It’s more hilarious than the first film. It has humor that appeals to kids and adults alike. It’s creative, unique and clever beyond imagination.

Returning to compose the score is Heitor Pereira “Despicable Me”. Pereira crafts another bubbly and upbeat and overall joyous score. What he manages to do is blend the score well into the film where it’s as happy and exciting as the film itself. Pereira also manages to put a new spin on the theme music from the game, which is exciting to hear.

Though the video game film genre has some serious issues, this film and the 2016 original are a step in the right direction for video game-based movies. The “Angry Birds” films have a uniqueness to them that is truly special and something to witness. Though it’s far from being held to the same standards as a “Disney” film, or some other animated studios film, this film is by far an underdog that is filled with lots of surprises for everyone.

Photo courtesy of Sony Animation

Rate: A 

Director: Thurop Van Orman

Starring:  Jason Sudeikis, Josh Gad, Leslie Jones, Bill Hader, Rachel Bloom, Awkwafina,Sterling K. Brown, Eugenio Derbez, with  Danny McBride and Peter Dinklage

MPAA Rating: (for rude humor and action)

Runtime: 1 Hour & 43 Minutes 

Synopsis: The flightless angry birds and the scheming green piggies take their beef to the next level in The Angry Birds Movie 2! When a new threat emerges that puts both Bird and Pig Island in danger, Red (Jason Sudeikis), Chuck (Josh Gad), Bomb (Danny McBride), and Mighty Eagle (Peter Dinklage) recruit Chuck's sister Silver (Rachel Bloom) and team up with pigs Leonard (Bill Hader), his assistant Courtney (Awkwafina), and techpig Garry (Sterling K. Brown) to forge an unsteady truce and form an unlikely superteam to save their homes.

Good Boys (2019)

If there is anyone film this year that is as hilarious as it's story, it would be this film. So far this year, not a lot of comedic films have been released. This film is the first this year that goes above and beyond to achieve laughs and hilarity that is genuinely satisfying. One of the best parts about this film is that it stands out from other films in regards to comedy. The laughs are genuine, the tween stars and heart in this film are wonderful and unique in its own right.

This Seth Rogen produced film is absolutely hysterical and there's no film this year that could possibly be as funny and unpredictable as this film. You can't help but relate to the tween trio in this film because of their talents and being able to perfectly execute all of the films jokes and comedic jabs and gags.

Director Gene Stupinsky crafts an amazingly hilarious film with heart, friendship and essentially a relatable film about the joys and terrors of growing up. It's beyond colorful in it's jokes and it's about time a film came out this year or this decade as a matter of fact, that is as funny as its plot. It's side-splitting gut reactions will have you laughing for the entirety of the film.

As if this film couldn't be anymore adorable, this film has a trio of up and coming child stars who charm their way through the film. The chemistry between them is astounding, even for a kid lead R-rated comedy. Their performances are one of the best and quite rare in any comedic film. When was the last time that a film was able to pull off having an adult comedy film with kids? Let this be the first.

Conducting the films score is Lyle Workman. Workman creates an upbeat, smooth and fast plethora of sound that keeps the film and our tween stars on their toes. It's just as energetic as the film itself.

This film's heartfelt moments and touching sentiments are worth noting, but this film also offers a genuine lesson in that you can never be too young or old to have a good time. It also shares that friendships are special and that growing up isn't such a pain.

If there's one film this year that is undeniably charming and hilarious, it's this film. What makes this film better than some other average comedic film, is that this film balances all of it's elements together that satisfies audiences. This film is a can't miss unique and laugh out loud sweet treat that is a rarity to find these days.

Photo Courtesy of Universal Pictures

Rate: A- 

Director: Gene Stupinsky 

Starring: Jacob Tremblay, Keith L. Williams and Brady Noon

MPAA Rating: R (for strong crude sexual content, drug and alcohol material, and language throughout - all involving tweens)

Runtime: 1 Hour & 40 Minutes 

Synopsis: After being invited to his first kissing party, 12-year-old Max (Room's Jacob Tremblay) is panicking because he doesn't know how to kiss. Eager for some pointers, Max and his best friends Thor (Brady Noon, HBO's Boardwalk Empire) and Lucas (Keith L. Williams, Fox's The Last Man On Earth) decide to use Max's dad's drone -- which Max is forbidden to touch -- to spy (they think) on a teenage couple making out next door. But when things go ridiculously wrong, the drone is destroyed. Desperate to replace it before Max's dad (Will Forte, The Last Man on Earth) gets home, the boys skip school and set off on an odyssey of epically bad decisions involving some accidentally stolen drugs, frat-house paintball, and running from both the cops and terrifying teenage girls (Life of the Party's Molly Gordon and Ocean's Eight's Midori Francis).

Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019)

The "Fast and Furious" franchise has not once appealed to me as far as action-films go, but this spinoff of the franchise is one hell of an entertaining film. It surpassed any doubts I had going into it, even though I didn't really see this film as worth watching. This film is fun, action-packed and very funny. Unexpectedly, this film did the impossible, which was entertain those moviegoers that aren't fans of the "Fast and Furious" franchise. 

Director of "Deadpool 2"  David Leitch, takes the wheel in this action-packed film, which is the first spinoff in the "Fast and Furious" films. Leitch has another entertaining film under his belt. He makes this film as action-packed and exciting as possible, which shows to the highest of levels. High octance leveled action fills this film from start to finish and I think that Leitch completely nails it. The humor is also pretty funny. It is mainly due to stars Jason Statham and Dwayne Johnsons undeniable chemistry. 

Yeah granted that Johnson and Statham are what make this film utterly enjoyable, but it's Vanessa Kirby who steals the show. Kirby is the one who makes this film utterly enjoyable. She makes saving the world badass and sexy. She is just as important, maybe even more important as a standout than its leading stars. 

The films baddie is a meta-human with enhanced abilities played by Idris Elba. He pulls off one of the coolest bad guys in a movie this year and it's very telling. On top of adding to the action sequences he pulls off, is the comedic aspects of his character that really won me over. 

Scoring the action-packed film is Tyler Bates, who previously teamed up with Leitch for "Deadpool 2". Bates crafts a score that is just as exciting and energetic as the film itself. 

I'm not going to spoil the film, but all that to say is that there are two appearances by some of your favorite funny guys. As to who they are, you'll just have to watch and find out for yourself. 

I have not once seen any of the films in the franchise, but does this film count? You bet it does. This film is unique, fast-paced and a thrilling ride of entertainment. So, for fans of the franchise or those new to the franchise, this film should satisfy both parties. If you like action films with car chases, then you're going to like this film. 

Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures

Rate: B+

Director: David Leitch

Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham, Vanessa Kirby and Idris Elba 

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for prolonged sequences of action and violence, suggestive material and some strong language)

Runtime: 2 Hours & 15 Minutes

Synopsis: Ever since hulking lawman Hobbs (Johnson), a loyal agent of America's Diplomatic Security Service, and lawless outcast Shaw (Statham), a former British military elite operative, first faced off in 2015’s Furious 7, the duo have swapped smack talk and body blows as they’ve tried to take each other down. But when cyber-genetically enhanced anarchist Brixton (Idris Elba) gains control of an insidious bio-threat that could alter humanity forever — and bests a brilliant and fearless rogue MI6 agent (The Crown’s Vanessa Kirby), who just happens to be Shaw’s sister — these two sworn enemies will have to partner up to bring down the only guy who might be badder than themselves.

Once Upon a Time in... Hollywood (2019)

It's one of the most absurdly entertaining films of the year so far. If you have been a Quentin Tarantino fan from the beginning or recently like me, you will be undoubtedly entertained watching this film. It is as wild and weird (in a good way) as you'd expect from a Tarantino flick. One of the most unique characteristics of some of his work is that it's unique, witty, action-packed and funny. This film shows all of those qualities in extraordinary fashion. If there is one film this year that is as wild as it is glorious, it's this film.

Films that are based on real life have big shoes to fill because they have a responsibility to try and accurately depict true stories, in which their film is based on. It's one of my favorite genres of films and I love that this film, which embellishes the actuality of the events that this film is based on, it's one of the best true story films ever made.

Legendary filmmaker Quentin Tarantino makes another absurdly wild and funny film. Though Tarantino starts the film off in a weird and slow way, the film picks up from that point on and redeems itself. His talent for writing and creating a story that is as riveting the film itself. On top of the films crazy but true story are the action sequences, setting in 1969 Los Angeles, and the actors, is the utter beauty that this film is.

2019 is the year of scene stealing animals. First we saw "Goose" in "Captain Marvel", now we see the scene stealing "Brandy". One of the most memorable parts of this film is this unexpectedly dangerous yet cute Dog. He is the antithesis of scene-stealer and it's pretty clear.

This film has an unforgettable cast. Legendary actors Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio team up in this "buddy-comedy" and their chemistry is magnificent and one of the best in any movie this year. Their chemistry is one that is charming, feisty and original and that is evidently shown in this film. Alongside Pitt & DiCaprio is Margot Robbie. Robbie plays actress and Manson Family murder victim Sharon Tate. Robbie is a sensational part of this film and she is as important in this film as the leading men.

One of the funniest parts of the film are its bloody and disturbing action sequences and a Bruce Lee fight scene with Brad Pitt's character. I enjoyed these parts very much because they were unique and funny to the highest degree of insanity.

The film does not have a traditional score but the plethora of music from the 1960's suffices as a fun and exciting replacement. Not only does the film have music from that decade to set the mood for the film, but also commercials and drive ins that make the film even more nostalgic.

Though this film isn't your typical film, it's conventionally brilliant and is one unique film. With it's amazing setting, undeniable chemistry between its actors, and the films story this film is one unique film for the ages. What also makes this film standout from others is the twist of events that changes the events actuality in which they occured is unusual but very cool. So, if you enjoy action-comedies or just Tarantino's movies, you're in for a wild and trippy ride.

Photo Courtesy of Columbia Pictures

Rate: A-

Director: Quentin Tarantino

Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie, Al Pacino and Kurt Russell

MPAA Rating: R (for language throughout, some strong graphic violence, drug use, and sexual references) 

Runtime: 2 Hours & 39 Minutes 

Synopsis: Quentin Tarantino's ninth feature film is a story that takes place in Los Angeles in 1969, at the height of hippy Hollywood. The two lead characters are Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio), former star of a western TV series, and his longtime stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt). Both are struggling to make it in a Hollywood they don't recognize anymore. But Rick has a very famous next-door neighbor...Sharon Tate.

Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)

*If you haven't seen "Endgame", don't read this review till you see it. This film takes place right after it and it's a huge spoiler if you just watch this instead of watching "Endgame". Don't say I didn't warn ya. Minor Spoilers. Read at your own risk. 

When I first saw Tom Holland as "Spider-Man" in the brief minutes in the third installment of "Captain America", I couldn't believe how authentic and fresh his performance was. I was wanting more after seeing him for the first time. Now, fast-forward to the first film of his very own, 2017's "Spider-Man: Homecoming". This film gave audiences a much more in depth take on the web-
slinging hero we all know and love.

The sequel to "Homecoming", is much more action-packed, a dazzling spectacle than the first one. This film tops all other "Spider-Man" films before this because it has more to offer fans and more than "Homecoming". It's a fun and thrilling conclusion to the collectively known trove of Marvel films as the "Infinity Saga".

I can't think of anyone more suited to direct a "Spider-Man" none other than returning from the film's first installment, Jon Watts. I had never heard of Watts before "Homecoming", but now, he's a director that is truly a gifted talent at crafting films like these two films. With this sequel, he does so much more than the first film. He crafts another delightfully entertaining film, but it has more than what "Homecoming" did.

On top of finding a director that has proven to be very skilled and well suited for the job, "Marvel" found a great actor that plays the web-slinger in a way that is unlike any other actor before him, Tom Holland, to play the web-slinging hero. Holland is no exception. He is truly a unique and fun "Spider-Man".

Alongside Holland, are returning cast members: Zendaya, who plays "Michelle aka MJ" and Jacob Batalon, who plays Peter's best friend Ned. Zendaya and Batalon are as joyous and likeable as ever. They are just as enjoyable and fun as Holland and that goes without saying. Newcomer to the "MCU" is Jake Gyllenhaal as "Quentin Beck aka Mysterio." Gyllenhaal, like Michael Keaton in the first film, is another fantastic villain and another great addition to the "MCU". He adds originality, a great chemistry between the characters and perspective that is all the more entertaining.

We also get to see the return of Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) and Maria Hill (Cobie Smolders). Though they aren't really an integral part of this movie they still appear in the film just as viberant and mission oriented as ever.

Making another appearance in the "Spider-Man" films is Jon Faverau as Happy Hogan, Tony Starks' best friend and security guard- or former. Favreau is as charming as ever with his character, especially with standout moments with Holland and Peter Parker's aunt May (Played once again by Marisa Tomei.)

Once again returning to score the new film, is Michael Giacchino. Giacchino first came to the "Marvel" scene with "Homecoming". He adds another great score that is a viberant and jazzy as it keeps the film very much alive.

Being set in a "post-snap" world, this film answers all questions we've had since "Endgame". This sequel is not only one of the best "Marvel" sequels, it's one of the best "Spider-Man" movies, period. This is definitely a must see if you're a fan of the "Superhero" film genre and whether you don't prefer "Marvel" or you prefer the rival "DC Comics' Extended Universe". 

Photo Courtesy of Sony Pictures & Marvel Studios

Rate: A 

Director: Jon Watts

Starring: Tom Holland, Zendaya, Jake Gyllenhaal, Samuel L. Jackson, Cobie Smolders, Marisa Tomei, Jacob Batalon

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

Runtime: 2 Hours & 10 Minutes 

Synopsis: Peter Parker returns in Spider-Man: Far From Home, the next chapter of the Spider-Man: Homecoming series! Our friendly neighborhood Super Hero decides to join his best friends Ned, MJ, and the rest of the gang on a European vacation. However, Peter's plan to leave super heroics behind for a few weeks are quickly scrapped when he begrudgingly agrees to help Nick Fury uncover the mystery of several elemental creature attacks, creating havoc across the continent!