The Passion of the Christ (2004)

One of the most historically and religious events to ever happen in the history of mankind gets an extraordinary film portrayal. This event, the crucifixion of Jesus, and the last hours of his most extraordinary life. This iconic film is brought to life by none other than legendary director and devout Christian, Mel Gibson. Gibson makes this film even more meaningful while maintaining accuracy from the Bible. The film is not one for weak stomachs, this film as in the most bitter of graphics, is the most violent and disturbing films ever made. It will continue to be a staple in Hollywood but also for believers in Christ and non-believers for ages to come. 

There aren't many people who can portray the legendary and miraculous messiah in any media form. That being said, Jim Caviezel, is outstanding as Jesus. Not only does he try and resemble the presumed look of Jesus, but he is essentially the best actor to portray him in any film or television program in history. Caviezel has outdone himself in the best way possible, playing Christ is his best performance. It is heavy, undoubtedly emotional and is especially very impactful on anyone who has seen it or those who still have yet to watch. 

As I mentioned earlier, Mel Gibson brings histories most influential figures to the big screen everso triumphantly and with dignity and precision. Gibson stays accurate in telling the story of the death of Jesus very authentically and original that will delight audiences forever. Though the film is extremely violent, some may say that it is the most violent film ever made, albeit it certainly is, it does have its nonviolent sequences which are primarily in the form of flashbacks to the "Last Supper", are as impactful as the graphic nature and emotional moments throughout the entire film. 

Jesus, being multi-lingual, Gibson wanted to tell this story in the way of the ancient language of Aramaic. Aramaic is the language in which parts of the middle east spoke at the time of Christ. That being said, the film is entirely subtitled, but it is as effective even if it's not in English. The emphasis that this language and the dialogue has on the film overall, is stunning and is a first for films of religious value. 

Not only is the makeup, costumes, and sets so powerful to witness, but the score is even more powerful. Scoring this historical take on the most extraordinary events is John Debney. Debney makes the film even more dramatic. With a heavy inclusion of drums, a solo artist and the effect on this film overall, this is one of the eeriest and haunting compositions of music for a film, that I have ever heard. 

This film is an essential cinematic viewing. It has the power to impact believers and non-believers in so many ways. With this film, there is no telling that this won't impact every single person that watches this extraordinary work of cinema. This film is life-changing and will always be life-changing for as long as humanly possible. It is the single greatest faith-based film to ever be made in Hollywood. 

Poster courtesy of Icon Productions

Rate: A 

Director: Mel Gibson

Starring: Jim Caviezel 

MPAA Rating: R (for graphic violence throughout) 

Runtime: 2 Hours & 10 Minutes 

Synopsis: In this version of Christ's crucifixion, based on the New Testament, Judas expedites the downfall of Jesus (Jim Caviezel) by handing him over to the Roman Empire's handpicked officials. To the horror of his mother, Mary (Maia Morgenstern), Magdalen (Monica Bellucci), whom he saved from damnation, and his disciples, Jesus is condemned to death. He is tortured as he drags a crucifix to nearby Calvary, where he is nailed to the cross. He dies, but not before a last act of grace.

Onward (2020)

The one thing both "Disney & Pixar" is phenomenal at, is being able to create utterly entertaining films. Their newest feature is nothing short of magic. They are able to craft a film like its fellow filmography, is as beautiful as you would expect from these two iconic movie studios. For years, the studios have created some of the most emotional movies ever. With blockbusters such as: "Up, The Lion King and Inside Out", this film is next up to those films in being one of their most emotional films to date. Not only is this film emotional and creative, but it is also their most adult-centered film yet. With its story and visual effects, "Onward", is a brilliantly laid out and executed film of emotional proportions. 

Director of the 2013 "Disney & Pixar" film "Monsters University", is Dan Scanlon. Scanlon returns to make yet another exciting film from the studio. He makes this film just as playfully magical as the rest of the studios' prior film entires. Scanlon's vision is executed flawlessly and with the help of a stellar voice cast, this film achieves the great honor of living up to the standard that all "Disney & Pixar" films do, is that they are all wonderful in their own way and that they each improve on every single feature that is released. I have no doubt that Scanlon's work here will be best regarded as one of the most adventurous and ambitious films yet.  It is beautifully animated, just like the studio's prior entries, and undoubtedly their most adult-themed story so far. 

With an all-star cast led by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt who team up once again for a film that is not part of "Marvel", but for their first film at "Pixar". They are quite a comedic duo. They each pull off being very likable and charming in this film but while also showing audiences thee reason we fall in love with the films that "Pixar & Disney"  make, its because they get actors that star in their films to have great chemistry. The same goes for this film, Holland and Pratt have exciting chemistry which makes the film all the more enjoyable. 

Starring alongside the two, are Julia Louis-Dreyfuss and Octavia Spencer. Louis-Dreyfuss plays the mother of Pratt and Hollands characters. Her part in this film is just as emotional as the two and she gives the film an extra kick to be just as entertaining as the two leads. While Spencer also plays a somewhat minor role, she is able to charm her way on the screen just as effectively as the rest of the cast. 

Scoring the film, are Mychael and Jeff Danna. With a film that is as magical as it is exciting and emotional, the duo is able to create a score that is as light and medieval as stories with this nature have. The sibling composers are able to charm audiences with a score that is as lighthearted and delicate as the film overall. 

Like I said earlier. this film is the most adult-themed film from the studio to date. Its emotional levity is what ultimately drives this film throughout the escapades of the characters and the mature nature of this film overall. I am sure that this film will impact audiences of all demographics because of the film's ability to connect audiences to a very emotional story. 

If there is one film that Disney & Pixar make that is both their most emotional and beautifully animated film this far, it is this film. And if there is any film that is made for adults, it is also this film. What this film does is indescribable too few words its that emotionally gripping. This film is yet another outstanding entry into the studios of both "Disney & Pixar". I have no doubt this film will enchant emotional audiences for ages to come. It is their most ambitious film yet and I cannot wait to see how future films from the studios compare to this one as far as emotional intensity is concerned. 

                                                                                                         Poster courtesy of Disney and Pixar 

Rate: A 

Director: Dan Scanlon 

Starring: Chris Pratt, Tom Holland, Julia Louis-Dreyfuss, Octavia Spencer, Lena Waithe, and John Ratzenberger 

MPAA Rating: PG (for action/peril and some mild thematic elements) 

Runtime: 1 Hour & 42 Minutes 

Synopsis: Teenage elf brothers Ian and Barley embark on a magical quest to spend one more day with their late father. Like any good adventure, their journey is filled with cryptic maps, impossible obstacles, and unimaginable discoveries. But when dear Mom finds out her sons are missing, she teams up with the legendary manticore to bring her beloved boys back home.

 

Bombshell (2019)

It was one of the media's most shocking scandals. This scandal saw the downfall of one of the biggest names in the world of broadcast-journalism., Roger Ailes. The founder of Fox News who quickly became a star in the business turned serial sexual abuser. This film is an eye-opening account of the scandal and sheds light on it so detailed in fashion. It also is very emotionally compelling in that it shows the impact of the victims in raw emotion which makes the film even more serious than it already is. This film has it all: humor, heart and a deeply compelling story on one of the journalist's biggest heroes turned foe. What this film manages to do so effortlessly, unlike other true-story based films is be a reviewing story throughout the entire film. It is truly one of the best films of the year.

This film is a star-studded saga. Playing former Fox News journalists: Megyn Kelly and Gretchen Carlson is none other than Charlize Theron and Nicole Kidman. The two leading ladies not only look exactly like the real players but they give phenomenal performances as the two famed journalists. They give performances that are undeniably memorable, emotional and charming throughout the film. I have no doubt that these performances have and will grab the attention of the real Carlson and Kelly, respectively. Meanwhile, playing the disgraced former Fox founder, who has since deceased in 2017, John Lithgow plays a conniving yet charismatic Roger Ailes. Lithgow's take on the troubled media mogul is thrilling yet haunting because of his spiraling downfall at the network.  And Margot Robbie, on the other hand, plays a fictitious character who is new to the network and wants to be at the top. Robbie's role is just as sensational as the rest of the cast. 

Director Jay Roach and writer Charles Randolph, craft an equally compelling story retelling the events of the infamous scandal. Roach delivers with an authentic mind of originality. Randolph's script as just as original with his craft. The writing is not delicate in the slightest when detailing the haunting events that unfold throughout the film. What they do here is stunning and equally as such is obvious. The two have done something that only certain true story based films can do and that is delivering and staying true to the actuality of the events being retold. 

Scoring this drama is Theodore Shapiro. His score, which includes a chorus of women, makes the film even more dramatic because of this. Shapiro makes the score the only delicate thing about this film because of the nature of the film and the seriousness of the film overall. The score adds to the drama and is perfectly balanced with it. The film also has an end-credits song, which amplifies the overall message of the film is that no one will be silenced if they talk about workplace harassment sexual to not. 

As I said earlier, the film's make-up could not be more accurate and perfect than it is. It really does show the journalists in a way that is uncanny. Just like any other film based on a true story, but this film is extra detailed as it can be when it comes to the make-up and overall beauty of the film itself. 

It shook not only the media by storm but the world. It is one of the most infamous media scandals of our time and its big-screen portrayal is nothing short of dazzling. I have no doubt this film will be a beacon of opportunity for anyone, man or woman, to not be afraid of speaking out against a hostile work environment. This film is an absolute sensation, even if the film gets too sensationalized in talking about the events of the scandal and the impact it had on the employees at one of the countries' television largest networks.  

                                                        Poster Courtesy of Lionsgate Films

Rate: B 

Director: Jay Roach 

Starring: Charlize Theron, Margot Robbie, Nicole Kidman, John Lithgow, and Kate McKinnon 

MPAA Rating: R (for sexual material and language throughout)

Runtime: 1 Hour and 50 Minutes 

Synopsis: Based on the real scandal, BOMBSHELL is a revealing look inside the most powerful and controversial media empire of all time; Fox News, and the explosive story of the women who brought down the infamous man who created it.

Knives Out (2019)

If there is any film within the past year that is intriguing as ever, it is this film. It is a cross between the game of clue and anything by author Agatha Christie. With its mystery and intrigue, this film is undoubtedly exciting. This film is all kinds of crazy. It will have audiences engaged at every moment. It is uniquely savvy in that the execution of the story is undoubtedly original and thrilling at the highest levels. I have no doubt this film will rank among the best films of not only the year but of mystery-intrigue value.

Writer-director Rian Johnson has made one of the best films of not only the past year but also within the last decade. He is smart with his craft and creates the ultimate case of film intrigue and wonder. The film is not only mysterious and delightfully entertaining but the film is also very funny. It is able to pull quality laughs from the audience and that is a fantastic thing for this film.

This film leads an all-star ensemble of A-listers including Daniel Craig, Jamie Lee-Curtis, Chris Evans and the legendary Christopher Plummer. They are all stunning in this film, but especially Craigs donning of a southern accent as a mysterious yet well-known sleuth. His performance is utterly charming and charismatic because of the energy he puts into the role.

Scoring the whodunnit is Nathan Johnson. With the film taking place in a mansion of Victorian architecture, it is only fitting for this film to have a classical sound to play throughout the film. Johnson does this so effectively and its as suspenseful as the film itself.

It is one of the most interesting films to date. This film is unique in every sense of the word. It pulls off the impossible by being an entertaining film but also one of the most fascinating films of the century. With twists at every turn, this whodunnit is one you cannot miss.

Poster courtesy of Lionsgate

Rate: A

Director: Rian Johnson 

Starring: Jamie Lee-Curtis, Daniel Craig, Katherine Langford, Christopher Plummer, and Chris Evans

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for thematic elements including brief violence, some strong language, sexual references, and drug material)

Runtime: 2 Hours & 10 Minutes 

Synopsis: Acclaimed writer and director Rian Johnson (Brick, Looper, Star Wars: The Last Jedi) pays tribute to mystery mastermind Agatha Christie in KNIVES OUT, a fun, modern-day murder mystery where everyone is a suspect. When renowned crime novelist Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer) is found dead at his estate just after his 85th birthday, the inquisitive and debonair Detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is mysteriously enlisted to investigate. From Harlan's dysfunctional family to his devoted staff, Blanc sifts through a web of red herrings and self-serving lies to uncover the truth behind Harlan's untimely death. 

Frozen 2 (2019)

It has been 7 years since the global phenomenon Frozen first debuted to audiences and smashed box-offices everywhere. Now we return to the magical land of Arendelle for even more fun and entertainment. The box-office smash hit gets a beautifully animated sequel. This is the first Disney princess film to get a direct sequel. What makes Disney films so unique is their utter beauty and charm. This film is no exception. What it manages to do is be even more beautiful than the original and even more enjoyable. I have no doubt that this film will rank among one of the best Disney films of all time.

Returning directors Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee are back with a bang. They are able to once again craft a magical film that fans of Disney will absolutely love. It does improve upon the original film in that it is more in-depth to explore the world of our favorite characters even more. Lee & Buck return in spectacular fashion and make the film even more enjoyable than the original.

Also returning to make the show-stopping tunes is the husband-wife duo, Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez. They return with even more catchy tunes than in the first film. They are what makes this film so special. The songs add to the story in a number of ways that make it succeed. They will no doubt go down in history as one of the most successful songwriting duos of all time.

Voicing our favorites once more, Idina Menzel, Kristen Bell, Jonathan Groff, and Josh Gad return as our favorite characters. Just like in the first film, they all deliver comedic and heartfelt performances once again as our favorite and highly likable characters. 

Scoring the film once again is Christophe Beck. Beck scores the film in a way that is as charming as the rest of the film. It is as upbeat and classy as before. The score makes the film even more enchanting as ever.

Venture into the unknown once again. This film is one of the studio's best sequels in recent years even if the ending of the film is abrupt and not detailed. The folks at Disney have made yet another smash-hit that fans of the first film will like maybe even more than the 2013 original film.

Poster Courtesy of Walt Disney Animation Studios

Rate: A- 

Directors: Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck 

Starring: Idina Menzel, Kristen Bell, Evan Rachel Wood, Sterling K. Brown, Josh Gad and Jonathan Groff 

MPAA Rating: PG (for action/peril and some thematic elements)

Runtime: 1 Hour and 45 Minutes 

Synopsis: Why was Elsa born with magical powers? The answer is calling her and threatening her kingdom. Together with Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, and Sven, she'll set out on a dangerous but remarkable journey. In "Frozen," Elsa feared her powers were too much for the world. In "Frozen 2," she must hope they are enough.

Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) (2020)

Lately, the films from "DC Comics"  have been much better than other films from previous films to come out from the folks at DC. What they have managed to do with this film, is up the ante, go all out with the story and the return of Margot Robbies "Harley Quinn". It is essentially one of the best films from the studio to date. This film is utterly crazy in all the good ways possible. It's memorable and emotional and undeniably exciting. The folks over at "DC Comics" have once again done it again at creating yet another entertaining film.

Rising star and director of the film Cathy Yan has done a phenomenal job at creating one of the best comic films from the studio to date. She makes this film as entertaining as possible. It has heart and cleverness beyond anything I have seen from "DC Comics" in recent years. It has so much to offer fans of the superhero film phenomenon. 

Some actors are just born to play certain roles. There is no exception for Margot Robbie. She first debuted in 2016's "Suicide Squad" as Harley Quinn. Her portrayal is utterly crazy exciting and undeniably eccentric and that is why I think she was born to play that role. 

Starring alongside Robbie, are Ewan McGregor as the villain, Jurnee Smolett-Bell, Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Rosie Perez. This stacked cast is phenomenal and it is indeed one of the best ensembles in a superhero film yet. 

On top of the stellar cast, is the films super packed action. This film sees action sequences that are top notch. The action in the film is colorful and unique to the highest proportions. The film is dark and sullen, but it blends altogeter even with the humor in the film. It is as slapstick as you could make it. By which makes the film even more exciting. 

Scoring the action-packed film is Daniel Pemberton. His score is as exciting as the film overall. It is as energetic as the film and is just overall a fun way to keep the film together. 

This film is a landmark achievement for superhero films. Though it does get a little carried away by McGregor, it is still a very solidly entertaining film for all superhero film fanatics. This film will no doubt rank high among the most entertaining films in the superhero film genre. 

Photo courtesy of DC Films

Rate: B+

Director: Cathy Yan 

Starring: Margot Robbie, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Jurnee Smollett-Bell, Rosie Perez and Ewan McGregor

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

Runtime: 1 Hour and 50 Minutes 

Synopsis: It's open season on Harley Quinn when her explosive breakup with the Joker puts a big fat target on her back. Unprotected and on the run, Quinn faces the wrath of narcissistic crime boss Black Mask, his right-hand man, Victor Zsasz, and every other thug in the city. But things soon even out for Harley when she becomes unexpected allies with three deadly women -- Huntress, Black Canary and Renee Montoya.

The Gentleman (2020)

Some of the years best films typically aren’t released until later in the year, but that doesn’t stop this film. This film is bonkers and action-packed from start to finish. It stands out as one of the first exciting films of the year. What makes this film exciting is the comedic aspects of it and the interesting story that keeps audiences entertained all throughout the film. It is a film that is unlike any film that is filled with action-packed and is utterly hilarious.

Director Guy Ritchie makes a film that is unique in every way. Richie can craft a film that, despite its odd and weird tone, is able to make audiences enjoy the film because of its uniqueness. The story Ritchie creates is nothing short of enticing.

Starring in the film is Matthew McConaughey. His role as a wealthy drug profiteer is a role that I could not see him in. But he is full of surprises at every turn. His performance is not one of his best roles, but he is unique at everything he does in this film.

The films action sequences are just as crazy as the film itself. It keeps the film at bay with all the chaos that surrounds the story. Some of the best action sequences so far this year are in this film.

Though this film isn’t perfect, it still manages to entertain. It was just enough energy to excite audiences, even if it takes a while to thoroughly get the job done. 

Photo courtesy of STX Films

Rate: B

Director: Guy Ritchie 

Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, Henry Golding, Michelle Dockery, Jeremy Strong, Eddie Marsan, Colin Farrell and Hugh Grant.

MPAA Rating: R (for violence, language throughout, sexual references and drug content)

Runtime: 1 Hour & 53 Minutes