Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

The final entry to the "Homecoming" trilogy is the best in the series. Not only is it the best in the series, but it is also the best Spider-Man film of all time without a doubt in my mind. It was the year's most anticipated film of the year and it not only lives up to the hype, but it also exceeds expectations. It has the most action I have ever seen in a Spider-Man film. The action is intense, exciting, and thrilling. The film also has the genuine heart and humor fans of the franchise, let alone the Marvel filmography as a whole, have come to expect. It will go down in cinema history as one of the most entertaining superhero films of all time. 

Director Jon Watts concludes his trilogy in a fantastic fashion. He has crafted the best of the trilogy and this film is a treasure to behold. His direction in this film tops the previous two films tenfold. It has the heart, action, and humor that fans expect from a Marvel movie. The scope of the action is unlike anything I have seen in any Spider-Man film up to this point. It is slick, intense, and exciting to say the least. I have zero doubt in my mind that this film will rank high among fan-favorite Spider-Man movies. The heart in the film is so much more emotional than anticipated. Be ready for the waterworks. 

The film returning ensemble cast is just as magnificent as ever. Tom Hollands alleged final outing as Spider-Man goes all out amazingly. His performance once again is as fun and exciting as ever. His portrayal of the iconic hero goes down as my favorite Spider-Man of all time. Starring alongside him once again are Benedict Cumberbatch, Zendaya, Jon Favreau, Marisa Tomei, and Jacob Batalon. They once again bring to the film a set of amazing performances. 

Much to the anticipation of fans, the return of Spider-Man foes from both the Tobey McGuire and Andrew Garfield Spider-Man films are fantastic. Returning as their characters, Willem Dafoe as Norman Osborn aka the Green Goblin, Alfred Molina as Doc Ock aka Otto Octavius, and Thomas Hayden Church returning as Marko aka the Sandman. Then, we have Garfield's Spider-Man villains returning respectively as Jamie Foxx's Electro and Rhys Ifhans as Dr. Curt Connors aka the Lizard. The whole concept of the multiverse is extremely exciting to see in this film and each of these characters returning to this film offers fans a massive sense of nostalgia. 

Returning to score the film like the last two films is Michael Giacchino. He adds to the excitement of this film in a marvelous way. It adds to the action and entertainment factors of the film through its entirety. Fans of his prior installments scores will enjoy this one just as much. 

This is the film we have been waiting for. It is the most exciting and thrilling Spider-Man film of all time. It is by far my all-time favorite Spider-Man film. The scope and wow factor that this film provides fans is extraordinary and will be appreciated by fans for ages to come.

Poster Courtesy of Marvel Studios and Sony Pictures 

Rate: A+

Director: Jon Watts

Starring: Tom Holland, Benedict Cumberbatch, Zendaya, Jacob Batalon, Marisa Tomei, Jon Favreau, Alfred Molina, Jamie Foxx, Willem Dafoe, Rhys Ifhans

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for Sequences of Action/Violence|Brief Suggestive Comments|Some Language)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 28 Minutes 

Synopsis: For the first time in the cinematic history of Spider-Man, our friendly neighborhood hero's identity is revealed, bringing his Super Hero responsibilities into conflict with his normal life and putting those he cares about most at risk. When he enlists Doctor Strange's help to restore his secret, the spell tears a hole in their world, releasing the most powerful villains who've ever fought a Spider-Man in any universe. Now, Peter will have to overcome his greatest challenge yet, which will not only forever alter his own future but the future of the Multiverse.

Dune: Part One (2021)

It is one of the most anticipated films of the year. The iconic Frank Herbert science-fiction novel comes to life once again. This film is the second adaptation of the bestselling novel. This new film is extraordinary at the highest levels. Though the film does tend to cause confusion with its plot, it makes up for that with the stunning visuals, action packed scenes and a chilling score from Hans Zimmer. The film sets the standard for science fiction cinema and is top quality for science fiction films. 

Director Denis Villeneuve is no stranger to crafting sci-fi films. He is known for "Arrival" and "Blade Runner: 2049" At the time of those films release, he had blown away audiences with his unique and compelling films. His latest feature here is next level sci-fi cinema. His version of the iconic novel is immense and grand on the largest scale. His film is truly unique even if the plot is a bit confusing to comprehend. 

This grand spectacle of epic proportions is star studded. Lead by Timothee Chalamet, also featuring Oscar Isaac, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Zendaya and Jason Momoa, this science fiction epic is one of the biggest films of the year. The performances are thrilling and emotionally charged throughout the entire film. 

Crafting the large scale films score is none other than Hans Zimmer. Zimmer is no stranger to science fiction cinema. He previously collaborated with Villeneuve on 2017s' "Blade Runner:2049". His score for this film is undeniably chilling. It is one of the most memorable parts of this space epic. 

One of the most anticipated films of the year is finally here. The biggest space epic in a really long time is a thrilling feature. Every issue with the plot is forgotten with the magnitude of the scope of the films grandeur. This film demands to be seen for its massive scope and it does not disappoint. You will be in awe of this sci-fi film. 

Poster courtesy of Warner Bros. 

Rate: B+ 

Director: Denis Villeneuve  

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (Some Disturbing Images|Sequences of Strong Violence|Suggestive Material) 

Runtime: 2 Hours and 35 Minutes

Starring: Timothee Chalamet, Oscar Isaac, Rebecca Ferguson, Jason Momoa, Josh Brolin and Zendaya

Synopsis: 

Paul Atreides, a brilliant and gifted young man born into a great destiny beyond his understanding, must travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe to ensure the future of his family and his people. As malevolent forces explode into conflict over the planet's exclusive supply of the most precious resource in existence, only those who can conquer their own fear will survive.

The Suicide Squad (2021)

It's a complete revamp of the 2016 film. This new "The Suicide Squad" is what the other film should've been. It's one of the most wildly bonkers DC film so far. What it does differently than the other film is that it is more edgy, violent and humorous. It is also perhaps the most violent of DC films. Fans have been waiting for this new film for awhile now and I'd say this film was definitely worth the wait. 

The cast of the movie is one of the most insane. Lead of course again by Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn. The film also stars Viola Davis. Joel Kinnaman, John Cena and Sylvester Stallone. This cast is stacked with great comedic and action packed performances that are some of the best in any DCEU film so far. They are a much better ensemble than the 2016 edition of the Suicide Squad film. 

Going from one superhero film to another is director James Gunn. He's most well known for directing Marvels 2014 and 2017s "Guardians of the Galaxy" films. This film is way more violent and extreme than the other two films because this film doesn't hold back on the violence. It is humorous and some of the best action in a comic-book film not seen since 2016's Deadpool. It's a warped and totally insane. That's why I think people will enjoy this weirdly entertaining film. 

Scoring the craziness of this film is John Murphy. His score is as action-packed and fast paced as the film. It goes hand in hand with all the craziness and the obscure weirdness that this film has. It is just as enjoyable as the film. 

With all that being said about how weirdly bizarre and entertaining as this film is, it starts off very slow but gets better as the film goes on. It's one of the most odd films in the genre. But it somehow manages to be an odd delight. 

Poster courtesy of Warner Bros. 

Rate: B

Director: James Gunn

Starring: Margot Robbie, Viola Davis, Joel Kinnaman, Sylvester Stallone and David Dastmalchian

MPAA Rating: R (for Drug Use|Brief Graphic Nudity|Language Throughout|Some Sexual References|Strong Violence and Gore)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 13 Minutes

Black Widow (2021)

Starting the MCU's Phase 4 saga, is the standalone solo film centered on Scarlett Johansson's iconic Black Widow. Taking place immediately after the events of "Captain America: Civil War", the film follows Black Widow on the run from the US government and "SHIELD". This is the final outing for Scarlett Johansson's iconic character, given the events of "Avengers: Endgame". I'd say this is one way to end the role in spectacular fashion. This film is everything I would expect from Marvel and this film was well worth the years long wait. 

As always, Johansson shines and brings all the action. Her final outing as the iconic character is once again amazing. It is the closure to an epic span of seven film appearances for the character. Co-starring are: Florence Pugh, David Harbour  and Rachel Weisz. They are a stellar addition to MCU and they also add to the action as well. A bittersweet moment in the MCU as we say farewell to Johansson in the role of Natasha Romanoff aka Black Widow. 

Newcomer to the MCU, director Cate Shortland, crafts a massive spy thriller type movie. It is cross between "Jason Bourne, James Bond and Mission: Impossible" rolled into one with a female lead. It's one of the most action packed films of the MCU and it lives up to the hype and anticipation which has been what feels like has been forever. 

The action, the music and the story are all fantastic. The film is filled with twists and turns and is undoubtedly one of the best of the movies so far in the MCU. The action tops those of some previous films in the Marvel filmography. Though the story does start off a bit slow with a back story, the film is great through the rest of it. 

Crafting the action packed films score is Lorne Balfe (Mission Impossible: Fallout). His score is just as action packed as the film. It may even be dramatic just like the film. It adds to the action and all the thrills. 

For seven films in 10 years, Scarlett Johansson's Black Widow has been a staple in the MCU. The character that audiences fell in love with during her second appearance in the MCU was 2012's "The Avengers" but the first was a show stealing debut in "Iron Man 2". 

Since then, her farewell in "Endgame" was a shocking yet now fitting conclusion to her iconic character. She goes out in style with this final time we see her in the MCU. This film is undoubtedly a bittersweet and action packed film that will delight fans. 

The film is the second woman lead solo film in the MCU, with Captain Marvel being the first. I think that since both films are out, this film is much better than "Captain Marvel" by far. This is due to, in my opinion, because audiences have seen more of the iconic Black Widow character in more films and have had an emotional connection to it as well. 

This first film in the fourth phase in the "MCU" is a knock out. It is fantastic in every sense possible. The film is a wonderfully made film that serves as the last hurrah to the character. Fans will no doubt be pleased and thrilled by this film, even though it is the last appearance of Black Widow. 

Poster courtesy of Disney+ and Marvel Studios

Rate: A-

Director: Cate Shortland

Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Florence Pugh, Rachel Weisz, David Harbour and Ray Winstone

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (Some Language, Intense Violence, Action, Thematic Material)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 15 Minutes

Synopsis: Natasha Romanoff, aka Black Widow, confronts the darker parts of her ledger when a dangerous conspiracy with ties to her past arises. Pursued by a force that will stop at nothing to bring her down, Natasha must deal with her history as a spy, and the broken relationships left in her wake long before she became an Avenger.

Luca (2021)

Pixar is widely known for its originality and beautiful animation. With that being said, this new film is flawless. It is unique in every way imaginable. Audiences expect nothing less of the films from Pixar and this is an absolute delight throughout the whole film. Beautifully animated and a heartfelt and comedic story, this film is yet another spectacular entry from the beloved studio. 

Making his directorial debut, Pixar short film director Enrico Casarosa, crafts an utterly amazing feature. It is heartwarming, comedic and very memorable. The film is one of the most unique of the Pixar filmography so far and this film is worth watching. His direction is unique in every sense of the word. I have no doubt that this film will rank high among my favorite films from the studio so far. 

Starring as the title character is Jacob Tremblay (Wonder, Room). Tremblay's performance as the lead character is fun and emotional with comedic effort. He is able to bring to life such an amazing film with an exciting and upbeat voice talent. Costarring alongside him are Jack Dylan Grazer (IT, Shazam), Maya Rudolph and Jim Gaffigan. Grazer plays the friend of Luca. The two have a chemistry that is very magnetic and undoubtedly memorable. Gaffigan and Rudolph play the main characters sea monster parents in a comedic fashion throughout the whole film. 

One of the most surprising moments of the film, is that one of the characters has a physical disability. This character is missing his arm and is one of the few characters portrayed as having a disability. This is a major win for inclusion of disability in film and I couldn't be anymore thrilled that this was included as part of the film. 

As I have said, the animation is spectacular. With that being said, the animation style in the film reminds me of the animation style of the British animated studio "Aardman". The character design reminds me of the characters seen in their films and I think that is unintentional but it is a comparison I am making.

The films music is also very bright and jovial. The music blends into the entire film. Composer Dan Romer makes the score just as beautiful as the film itself and it adds to the excitement. 

One of the best things about films from "Pixar" is the imagination. Their films are always so original and unique. Same goes for this beautifully crafted film. It is a sight to see and audiences will no doubt fall in awe over the films spectacular animation. The film I think is one of the best films from the studio so far. 

Poster courtesy of Pixar and Disney

Rate: A 

Director: Enrico Casarosa

Starring: Jacob Tremblay, Jack Dylan Grazer, Maya Rudolph and Jim Gaffigan

MPAA Rating: PG (for Some Thematic Elements, Brief Violence, Rude Humor, Language)

Runtime: 1 Hour and 40 Minutes

Synopsis: Set in a beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera, Disney and Pixar's original feature film "Luca" is a coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. Luca (voice of Jacob Tremblay) shares these adventures with his newfound best friend, Alberto (voice of Jack Dylan Grazer), but all the fun is threatened by a deeply-held secret: they are sea monsters from another world just below the water's surface.

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A Quiet Place Part 2 (2021)

One of the most anticipated films of the year is finally in theaters. The sequel to the smash-hit horror film is a phenomenal film.  It is more less of a horror film but rather a suspense thriller movie. We have been wait for over a year for this film and it was definitely worth the wait. What makes this film so unique is its thrill factor and over suspense of the whole thing. It is truly one of the most suspenseful films of the year. It is even more suspenseful than the first movie. 

John Krasinski comes back to direct the sequel and it is even better than the first film. It is way more suspenseful and adds to the thrill factor. He adds to the scare factor too with the sound sensitive monsters wrecking havoc on the world. The depth of this film is much bigger and the intensity of this film shows that it is. 

The film stars Emily Blunt and Krasinski as the couple in the film that tries to evade the dangers of the monsters that hunt those who create sound. Co-starring are: Cillian Murphy, Millicent Simmonds and Noah Jupe. Their performances (with the new addition of Murphy in the film) are all thrilling throughout the entire film. 

Another very important part of the film is the integration of sign language in the film. This was also a huge part in the first film as well, so this is just a continuation of that. It's really unique because Simmonds is deaf in real life so I thing that is a great part of the movie to include sign language while also casting an actor with a disability in the film as well. 

To keep the thrill and suspense factors going, Marco Beltrami returns to craft yet another thrilling score. It keeps the thrill alive throughout the entire film. While accompanying the film, it is yet another exciting part of the film altogether. 

Audiences have waited for over a year to see the highly anticipated sequel to the 2018 horror suspense film. The sequel lives up to the hype and is one of the best films of the year. This film has upped the level of suspense with this film and it was undoubtedly worth the year long wait to see the amazing film. 

Poster courtesy of Paramount

Rate: A 

Director: John Krasinski 

Starring: John Krasinski, Emily Blunt, Cillian Murphy, Millicent Simmonds and Noah Jupe

MPAA Rating: PG-13 ( (Terror|Bloody/Disturbing Images|Violence)

Runtime: 1 Hour and 35 Minutes

Cruella (2021)

One of the most iconic Disney villains gets the big-screen treatment in this highly anticipated origin film. The film is the second live-action film based off of one of Disney's most villainous foes. 2014's Maleficient starring Angelina Jolie played the iconic "Sleeping Beauty" villain ever so fierce. Now it's Emma Stone's role of the infamous Cruella De Vil. The cool thing about this film is that it gives viewers an origin into how our favorite Disney baddies turned evil. This new film is honestly my favorite live-action Disney film to date. This film is stylish, sexy, and fierce, it's entertaining from start to finish. 

I can't think of anyone who would be better than Emma Stone in this role. She is a tour de force and is electric and sassy. Her performance is amazing and her portrayal of the title role. Her chemistry opposite Emma Thompson is also fantastic and exciting throughout the entire film. 

Thompsons supporting role as the main rival to the character is very similar to that of Meryl Streeps' "The Devil Wears Prada" character in which she plays a bossy fashion designer. Her role is just as exciting and devilish as the title character is.

Director Craig Gillespie brings the classic iconic villain to life in a spectacular way. The ambiance of the film is delightfully dreary and the overall appeal of the time period of the film 1970's England is stunning because it fits into the personality of the character and the story altogether. This film is unique in every sense of the word. 

To complement such a devilishly entertaining film, a score by Nicholas Britell makes this film as charming as it can be. It's sophisticated enough for the film to give off the punk like attitude it gives off. In addition to the score, a mix of iconic songs from the 70's and 80's make this film even more entertaining. 

It is the best live-action "Disney" film to date. With so much to offer with its fantastic cast, stunning costumes, action packed fun and the delightfully crafted score, this film demands to be seen. It's the most unique of any live-action film from the studio to date. It's an irresistable ride and it can't be missed. 

Poster courtesy of Disney+

Rate: A

Director: Craig Gillespie 

Starring: Emma Stone, Emma Thompson, Paul Walter-Hauser, Joel Fry and Mark Strong

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for Thematic elements and some violence) 

Runtime: 2 Hours and 16 Minutes