TENET (2020)

One of the things all of the films made by director Christopher Nolan is that they all make you think. They make you wonder about certain elements of thought and science. His latest mind-blowing visceral thriller is nothing short of phenomenally crafted especially due to the stunning action sequences. This film is one of the only blockbusters released this summer during this pandemic and it is definitely worth returning to the theaters. The thing about this film is that it is unique in every sense of the word. Its plot may be a bit hard to follow at times, but the action and the score are able to make up for that. Overall, this film is yet another mindblowing spectacle from Christopher Nolan. 

Director and Writer Christopher Nolan's latest film is a mindboggling brain play thriller. Not only is his work here a brain teaser but the film title a palindrome. This shows once again that Christopher Nolan is a wordsmith with excitingly clever intentions. His work is once again as thrillingly entertaining as audiences expect from Nolan himself. It is his most ambitious rollercoaster of an action film yet. Even though this film is hard to decipher and it will continue to confuse you till after the film is over, the action in the film is a great and effective enough to handle its intricately convoluted all over the place plot. 

Lead John-David Washington's "The Protagonist" is remarkable and fierce. The character is very determined and complex throughout the whole film. His performance is action-packed and emotionally dedicated to the entire film. Starring opposite Washington is Elizabeth Debicki, Robert Pattinson, and Kenneth Branagh. They are all standout supporting roles that impact this film to make it even better than ever. Pattinson and Debecki give some of the best performances of the year alongside Washington. The chemistry of these three together onscreen is phenomenally apparent. 

Frequent music collaborator with Nolan, Hans Zimmer did not reunite in this film. Instead, Ludwig Goransson teams up with Nolan on this spy thriller. Goranssons score is an exhilarating composition of music. The energy and force of it are what adds to the film's thrill factor all in all.   

One of the most fascinating spectacles of this film is the camera work and the gravity-defying action sequences. Hoyte Van Hoytema's camera work is truly exciting and one of the best parts of this film overall. 

There's nothing more pulsating and intense than a film by Christopher Nolan. His latest creation, a slightly hard to follow complex film is perhaps successful due in part by the stunning action sequences and the score. This film is also very reminiscent of his 2010 film "Inception" in regards to the action and camera work. If you have seen that film, you will love this film. But either way, this film shows just once again how narratively talented Christopher Nolan really is. With the lack of blockbusters this year due to the pandemic, this film bursts on the screen as audiences return to the Cinema. Despite its bit of confusing plot, the action makes up for that confusion. This film is Nolan's most brain-busting film yet. 

Poster courtesy of Warner Bros. 

Rate: A- 

Director: Christopher Nolan 

Starring: John David Washington, Elizabeth Debicki, Robert Pattinson, Kenneth Branagh, and Michael Caine

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for intense sequences of violence and action, some suggestive references, and brief strong language) 

Runtime: 2 Hours and 30 Minutes

Synopsis: Armed with only one word--Tenet--and fighting for the survival of the entire world, the Protagonist journeys through a twilight world of international espionage on a mission that will unfold in something beyond real-time.

 

Bill and Ted: Face The Music (2020)

It's been over 30 years since audiences were first introduced to the goofy exploits of surfer talkin' buddies Theodore "Ted" Logan (played by Keanu Reeves once again) and William "Bill" S. Preston Esq. (played once again by Alex Winter.) Ever since their debut in 1989's "Excellent Adventure", they come back stronger and funnier than ever. Though the film sometimes does go by a bit slow, this film brings back the nostalgia of the original film. 

Director Dean Parisot honors the original film in most excellent fashion. His quirky vision of a goofy comedy is enjoyable to the max and is a great buddy comedy film. Some of the jokes may fall flat, but overall, this film is a good enough film in this very strange time right now. The film's dry humor is enough to get some laughs but I think that the story is much more feasible than the jokes. 

It is very similar to that of the "Dumb & Dumber" films. Though this film series hasn't gained a cult following like the "Dumb & Dumber" films, this series is still as enjoyable. With this film, the returning leads deliver delight in a film that is a breath of fresh in the age of uncertainty we are living in right now. Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter are a comedic duo for the ages and may get a little too over the top however, they make this film just as exciting as the original film. 

But the real scene-stealers of the movie are the daughters of their characters. Played by Bridgette Lundy-Paine and Samara Weaving, they are just as goofy yet slightly obnoxious versions of "Bill and Ted" themselves. They are able to give that same level of comedic effect as the main characters. They bring new light to the franchise with a sense of humor that the original had done before. 

Scoring the goofy film is Mark Isham. Isham's score is a blend of fast-paced and delicateness that makes this film just as entertaining. It is able to keep the film on its toes with his score that goes well with the film altogether. 

Despite all the action sequences and the goofy antics of the characters, this film is good enough to sustain laughter from audiences, but I think this film may not win over everyone who has not seen the original 1989 film. So, even if you have seen the original film, I would say just give this film a try, even if it struggles a bit while trying to live up to the original film.  

Poster Courtesy of Orion Pictures 

Rate: B- 

Director: Dean Parisot 

Starring: Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, Samara Weaving, Bridgette Lundy-Paine, Kristen Schaal and Holland Taylor 

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for some language) 

Synopsis: The stakes are higher than ever for the time-traveling exploits of William "Bill" S. Preston Esq. and Theodore "Ted" Logan. Yet to fulfill their rock and roll destiny, the now middle aged best friends set out on a new adventure when a visitor from the future warns them that only their song can save life as we know it. Along the way, they will be helped by their daughters, a new batch of historical figures, and a few music legends -- to seek the song that will set their world right and bring harmony in the universe.

Runtime: 1 Hour and 35 Minutes 

Inception (2010)

 It is one of the most thrilling and mind-boggling films of the past decade. It has remained one of the great action thrillers since its release. It has intense action and a stellar cast are what makes this film one of the most iconic thrillers of the past decade. It has a unique and compelling narrative that will entertain audiences for decades because of its thrill factor. 

Unlike other films in the thriller heist genre, this film is unique in every sense of the word. The cerebral force of this film is unlike anything you have ever seen in a film. I have no doubt in my mind that this film because of its action, story, and intense upbeat score from Hans Zimmer, will win over audiences still to this day. 

Not only does director Christopher Nolan make one of his best films, its one of the best films period. What Nolan manages to accomplish here is nothing short of amazing and utterly breathtaking. Christopher Nolan has made an outstanding film and its story is one that makes you think throughout the entire film. His visceral storytelling and visuals are topnotch. 

Inceptions lead in Leonardo DiCaprio is fantastic. His role is one of his finest roles and makes this film what it is, phenomenal. Starring alongside DiCaprio in this mind-bending film are Tom Hardy, Ellen Page, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Marion Cottilard. Their supporting roles in this film are just as exciting alongside DiCaprio and they do a phenomenal job overall. 

This film would not be near as exciting as it is without the works of Hans Zimmer, who is a frequent collaborator with Nolan and his films. Zimmers craft here is fast-paced and upbeat yet ethereal. This remains one of Zimmer's best compositions to date. 

It's been 10 years since the release of "Inception", and it still remains as exciting as it was then when it was first released. It's one of the most mindblowing films ever made and with its stunning camera work and utter majesty, this film remains one of the greatest films not only by Christopher Nolan but one of the best films ever made.

Poster courtesy of Warner Bros. and Syncopy Films 

Rate: A 

Director: Christopher Nolan 

Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen Page, Tom Hardy, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Marion Cottilard and Michael Caine 

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for sequences of violence and action throughout)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 42 Minutes 

Synopsis: Dom Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio) is a thief with the rare ability to enter people's dreams and steal their secrets from their subconscious. His skill has made him a hot commodity in the world of corporate espionage but has also cost him everything he loves. Cobb gets a chance at redemption when he is offered a seemingly impossible task: Plant an idea in someone's mind. If he succeeds, it will be the perfect crime, but a dangerous enemy anticipates Cobb's every move.

The Old Guard (2020)

 Not many of the original films on "Netflix" impress me, but this one sure did. This film is one of the very few original films on the streaming service that is actually very entertaining. It has great action sequences and a confident lead in Charlize Theron. This film is one of the few delights to come out during the "Coronavirus Pandemic" that is actually worth watching. It may not win over those who don't like violence, but it sure will win over those who do like a good action-packed and violent film. 

Based on a comic book of the same name, this film is a reimagined take on a new kind of superheroes. The work here is exciting and brings new life to the 2020 film slate. Director Gina Prince-Bythewood makes an undeniably exciting film in these challenging times. Her craft is as exciting as any other film of its kind but even better than some. It may be dark and disturbing but it's one hell of an action film. 

Lead star Charlize Theron has probably given her best performance in this crazy action thriller. She is the glue that sticks this film together. She makes this film so enjoyable and it's very telling. Her costars KiKi Layne, Marwan Kenzari, and Luca Marinelli give this film an even bigger boost alongside Theron and the action of this film.  

Not only does this film have an interesting and compelling story, but this film's action sequences are just as exciting as the story. The action in this film is some of the best in terms of films this year so far. I have no doubt audiences will enjoy this film just as much as I did. 

One of the very few films to come out on "Netflix"  during this time is one big achievement for moviegoers because nothing blockbuster has been released as of yet. This film is one of the few gems to come from the streaming giant and not be a total let down. I have no doubt that this film will fully entertain audiences. 

Poster Courtesy of Netflix and Skydance Pictures 

Rate: A- 

Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood  

Starring: Charlize Theron, KiKi Layne, Marwan Kenzari and Luca Marinelli 

MPAA Rating: R (for sequences of graphic violence, and language)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 5 Minutes 

Synopsis: A group of mercenaries, all centuries-old immortals with the ability to heal themselves, discover someone is onto their secret, and they must fight to protect their freedom. 

Scoob! (2020)

One of the most popular and beloved cartoons of "Hanna-Barbera" gets an all-new film. The ever-iconic "Scooby-Doo" gets a new film that is just as loveable as you would expect. It has given new life into the iconic cartoon in this new film. It gives audiences a beautifully animated and downright hilarious film. Even after so many years since its debut in 1969, it has remained an icon in animated television, and now iconic in film. This brand new animated film is true to the legacy of the original show and I think fans of the iconic dog and crew will love this film. 

Director Tony Cervone makes the film live up to the legacy of the original show. It is charming and overall fun that I think audiences both new and those who are familiar with the iconic character will enjoy the film. He makes the film as exciting as the show itself. The film is not only beautifully animated, but it also has an entertaining story. This film also has some adult humor that will go over the heads of kids, that I think will ultimately win over parents. 

The film's voice cast is star-powered. With the talent of Zac Efron, Amanda Seyfried, Gina Rodriguez, Mark Wahlberg, and the original voice of the iconic dog, Frank Welker. This cast is lively and they make the film even more exciting. With Welker returning to voice the iconic character, this is cause for nostalgia. 

Scoring the film is Tom Holkenborg "Black Mass". His score is as jubilant and energetic as the film itself. It is an exciting and upbeat score that makes the film stick together overall. 

Though this film is exciting, it does struggle at the forefront at times. Some of the writing of the film falls flat in the comedic efforts and dialogue, but it still is a good movie overall. The jokes can sometimes be a bit cringe-like and the characters sometimes act as a placement just to be there when they don't need to be. But the film compensates for the action and overall beauty which is what I think ultimately drives the film. 

One of the televisions' most iconic characters gets a revamped new storytelling in film. Though it sometimes falls short, the beauty of the animation and the exciting action sequences are what drive the film to succeed. Overall, this film may not win over fans of the original show with this new film, but it will win over a new generation of fans. 

Poster Courtesy of Warner Bros. 

 

Rate: C

Director: Tony Cervone 

Starring: Zac Efron, Gina Rodriguez, Amanda Seyfried, Mark Wahlberg, and Frank Welker 

MPAA Rating: PG (for some action, language, and rude/suggestive humor)

Runtime: 1 Hour & 35 Minutes  

Gone With The Wind (1939)

Based on the best selling 1936 novel by Margaret Mitchell, this film adaptation is nothing short of an American cinema classic. Since its release in 1939, it has remained one of and if not the greatest film ever. It also just happens to be the highest-grossing film of all-time with inflation. This Civil War epic is a perfect picture of the tumultuous time period and is crafted utterly elegantly. With it being one of the longest films ever made, it packs in a ton. Despite its controversial reception from today's modern era of film audiences, it still is an iconic film unlike anything in the history of cinema. It is a timeless cinematic gem. 

Director Victor Fleming & Producer David O. Selznick's masterpiece of cinema is a true treasure of the cinematic arts. This film paints the biggest picture of the "Civil War" and its utter beauty is a sight to behold. The film is massively crafted. With its stunning sets and scenery, this film takes viewers into the era of the "Civil War" in such grace and utter flawlessness. 

What makes this film brilliant is the story itself, but also the incredible cast. Leads Clark Gable & Vivien Leigh are utterly fantastic in this film. Their chemistry is perhaps the greatest of any film duo to date. This cast broke lots of barriers too. Costarring as "Mammy", a black house servant, is Hattie McDaniel (who later won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for the role, and the first black actor to win an Oscar.) Leslie Howard & Olivia de Havilland also star in the film. This cast is remarkable in every sense of the word. It's clear that this film set the standard for cast ensembles because this cast is amazing. 

Composer Max Steiner's legendary score is just as iconic today, as it was 80 years ago with the film's original release. His theme for the film is an instant classic, everyone who hears the theme they know exactly where it's from. With a beautiful film to go along with it, this score is beyond beautiful. 

Given that the film is based in the "Civil War" era, it is not a real story. Regardless, this film is an utter masterpiece. Times have changed. Audiences decades later may feel sour about the film, but I highly beg to differ that this film is offensive or controversial nowadays. 

It has been decades since the film was first released, and it has even been rereleased throughout the years as well. With how groundbreaking and remarkable this film is, I feel in awe every time I watch it. The legacy of this film has made an enormous impact on cinema, and I have zero doubt in my mind that this film's legacy and historical representation will not fade anytime soon. 

Poster courtesy of MGM Studios

Rate: A+ 

Director: Victor Fleming 

Starring: Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Hattie McDaniel, Leslie Howard, and Olivia de Havilland 

MPAA Rating: G 

Runtime: 4 Hours 

Synopsis:

Epic Civil War drama focuses on the life of petulant southern belle Scarlett O'Hara (Vivien Leigh). Starting with her idyllic on a sprawling plantation, the film traces her survival through the tragic history of the South during the Civil War and Reconstruction, and her tangled love affairs with Ashley Wilkes (Leslie Howard) and Rhett Butler (Clark Gable).

Citizen Kane (1941)

It has been considered the greatest film of all time by film critics ever since its release in 1941. I quite frankly have to agree with them. It's intricate and complex narrative is one of the most entertaining of all time. The Orson Welles classic is a truly American film. It's a film that must be seen by everyone whether you live the "American Dream" or not, this film is beyond imaginative and renews a human spirit in us that even the most successful of people among us have their demons. 

It embodies the "American Dream" in such a way that it is as authentic then as it remains the same almost 80 years later. I have no doubt that this tale of the "American Dream" will remain that way for decades to come. Welles's creation is an extraordinary tale of the rise and fall of what the "American Dream" can be. 

Iconic actor and director Orson Welles's first film is one of the most unique of all time. His vision of intricacy and bewilderment is pulled off very elegantly and savvily. The direction is unique and is one of the most underappreciated ever. The narrative is as complex and unique as its direction is. What the film manages to do is put audiences on edge and keep them wondering throughout the whole film. This film remains an underappreciated cinematic gem that audiences must watch. 

Not only did Welles direct and write the film, but he is also the star of the iconic motion picture. His iconic role as the newspaper tycoon. It's one of the single greatest performances by an actor in any film. He is a brute force onscreen and delivers an extraordinary performance as the successful yet embattled Charles Foster Kane. His performance is memorable, to say the least, and it shows just how impactful the film is overall. 

Iconic film composer Bernard Herrmann's score is as iconic as the film itself. Herrmann's score has just as much elegance as the film itself. It remains just as iconic after so many years just like the film overall.   

 

The legacy of this film is ever-present. The iconic film has one of the cinemas most meaningful stories. It is a story of failure and success and should be seen by everyone. This film is more relevant than ever before with its allegorical presence. With masterful storytelling, bombastic performances, and a crushingly engrossing narrative, this film is an iconic film in every sense of the word.

Poster Courtesy of RKO Pictures 

Rate: A+ 

Director: Orson Welles 

Starring: Orson Welles, Dorothy Comingore, Joseph Cotten 

MPAA Rating: PG 

Runtime: 1 Hour & 45 Minutes 

Synopsis: 

When a reporter is assigned to decipher newspaper magnate Charles Foster Kane's (Orson Welles) dying words, his investigation gradually reveals the fascinating portrait of a complex man who rose from obscurity to staggering heights. Though Kane's friend and colleague Jedediah Leland (Joseph Cotten), and his mistress, Susan Alexander (Dorothy Comingore), shed fragments of light on Kane's life, the reporter fears he may never penetrate the mystery of the elusive man's final word, "Rosebud."