Mulan (2020)

A new thing now is to reboot films. But if you're "Disney", you are going to remake your animated classics.  Almost all of the films Disney has made within the last 30 years and even some years before that have gotten the reboot treatment. The 1998 original Mulan, is the latest film to get the reboot treatment. It's completely different from the original film. So much more action, stunning visuals, and a new take on the classic animated film are some of the few remakes from "Disney" that actually does better than expected. This is one of the best remakes to one of the studios' classic animated films. 

Actress ‎Liu Yifei stars as the main character and absolutely kills it in the film. Her portrayal of the iconic Disney character is more developed in that the audiences a new look at the character in a different and unique way. She is fierce and fits really well in the character altogether. Her take on the character is fresh and draws audiences into the new world in Mulan. 

Director Niki Caro helms this remake and makes it as exciting as the original film, despite important differences No songs and Mushu the dragon. But the film is still entertaining. However, it is one of the darker and more mature remakes from "Disney". The reason being is the action sequences and the stunts in the film. Due to these factors, the film is the first reboot from the studio to receive a PG-13 rating. It seems to top the original film in that aspect. Caro's vision stays true in honoring the legacy of the 1998 animated original. This will delight audiences even if it misses some key moments. 

The same old story just an updated telling of it. The film's writing isn't that good but it's not all the way terrible. I just think it could've been better in the aspects of the emotional connection and story lacking a fresh authentic feel like it's new and completely separate from the original film. Other than that, this film is a solid remake and another good film from "Disney". 

Scoring this remake is Harry Gregson-Williams. The score is enchanted with sounds that dominate Chinese culture which makes this film even more entertaining and it fits right into it. It is as exciting as the film itself. 

One of the biggest trends in the film industry now is rebooting films in a live-action format in which the originals were animated. This reboot of one of "Disney's" animated hits is a great one but also a bit more on the darker side. Though the writing could've been a lot better, and some key moments from the original film were left out, this film still proves to be another exceptional and albeit very surprising to audiences, a great film.  

Rate: B

Director: Niki Caro 

Starring: Liu Yifei, Donnie Yen, Tzi Ma, Jason Scott Lee, Yoson An, Ron Yuan with Gong Li and Jet Li

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

Runtime: 2 Hours

Synopsis: To save her ailing father from serving in the Imperial Army, a fearless young woman disguises herself as a man to battle northern invaders in China.

Poster courtesy of Disney

Borat Subsequent Moviefilm (2020)

If there is a film in 2020 that is the edgiest and most outrageous film of the year, it is this film. The sequel to controversial comedian Sacha Baron Cohen's 2006 "Borat" is one of the most ridiculous films I have ever seen. There are so many things wrong with this film and that's what makes it a great comedic film. I have to say this film is just outrageous as "South Park". It is one of the funniest films of the year. 

This film follows the exploits of the aforementioned character and his mission to deliver his daughter to VP Mike Pence. Borat and his daughter travel throughout the US and partake in ridiculous ventures. This film is made as a joke that all people in the film are believing that Sacha Baron Cohen's character is real, as they are unsuspecting as the character interacts with them in real-time. It is absolutely bonkers and filled with dark humor throughout the whole movie and that's what will win over fans of the comedian and comedic films overall. 

Cohen's screenplay and director Jason Woliner's craft is undoubtedly one of the weirdest yet effective styles I have ever seen in a comedic film. It is unlike any comedic film I have ever seen. It blew me away and had me laughing so hard I was crying. The jokes and scenes in this film are undeniably offensive to lots of people in our world and it may not sit well with viewers in these groups. 

This film completely ignores the fact that this is a movie with terrible acting. The screenplay and the gags are the bread and butter of the film and that's why it makes up for the extremely cringeworthy acting. The film is downright hilarious on so many levels but yet somehow with the terrible acting, the film manages to still get laughs out of viewers. 

It is perhaps the funniest movie of the year. The dark humor, ridiculous gags, and poking fun at our world in 2020 is why this film is indeed the best comedic film of the year. Its edginess and offensive material may not be for everyone but this film gets the job done with all its absurdity. 

Poster courtesy of Amazon Prime Video

Rate: A

Director: Jason Woliner 

Starring: Sacha Baron Cohen 

MPAA Rating: R (for Graphic Nudity|Strong Crude & Sexual Content|Language)

Runtime: 1 Hour & 35 Minutes

Synopsis: Released from prison for bringing shame to his country, Kazakh funnyman Borat risks life and limb when he returns to America with his 15-year-old daughter.

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