Avatar (2009)

There is no science fiction motion picture beauty quite like this. This iconic film has been a global sensation since its release in 2009. Being the number one box-office behemoth and the highest-grossing film of all time, that is up till the release of 2019s "Avengers: Endgame", it still lives up to its glory. It is a visual masterpiece and has to be one of the most visually breathtaking films I have ever seen. The scenery and the action are what science-fiction films are meant to be. 

James Cameron has created something that stands out among some of the best films of its kind. The action, story, acting, and score are unique and hold together magnificently. Everything is just perfect and entertaining throughout the whole film all the while with its 2 hours and 40 minutes runtime. It is worth every sci-fi fan's attention this film is that good. He knocks it out of the park and still remains my favorite sci-fi film of all time. 

The cast is just as amazing as you would expect. The film stars Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldana alongside Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Michelle Rodriguez, and Giovanni Ribisi. The emotional dedication of each cast member is phenomenal and they bring it all out in the movie. The story is carried out flawlessly by them and it is cause for excitement. I have seen a whole bunch of sci-fi films with star-studded ensembles but nothing quite compares to the awesomeness of this cast. 

Scoring this sci-fi epic is the late and frequent collaborator of Cameron, James Horner. Horner created a score that is as emotionally riveting and unique as the film itself. This score makes the film just as magical as the film overall with its unique sounds. 

There is nothing like this. The film has remained one of cinema's most iconic science-fiction films since its release. And since then, it has not lost its spark of entertainment and its impact on cinema. It set the standard for science-fiction films and has become my definition of what a sci-fi movie should be. It will not lose its touch among cinemas' best science-fiction movies of all time.

Poster courtesy of 20th Century Studios

Rate: A+

Director: James Cameron 

Starring: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Michelle Rodriguez, and Giovanni Ribisi

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for Language|Warfare|Intense Battle Sequences|Sensuality|Some Smoking)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 40 Minutes

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

A fire will rise. The monumental conclusion to the stunning and box-office smash series "The Dark Knight", ends here. The franchise has been an utter sensation since it first debuted in 2005. And now, it goes all out on trying to be the best of the series, topping the prior installment "The Dark Knight". It's fantastic, maybe not as much as the first film however, it does an excellent job at wrapping up the story of the Batman in a marvelous and action packed way.

He's dealt with Jokers, the mafia, Ra's Al Ghoul and now the sinister masked Bane. What makes Bales performance in this film unique beyond all measures, is his relentless efforts to portray the batman as a flawed yet determined character.

Nolan out does himself for the third and final who-rah. It's amazing because themes of severe pain and brokenness makes this film even more interesting. He also adds even more action than the first two films.

Once again, Hans Zimmer makes another gripping score to grab at audiences. It's fast paced, just like the film, and it has the consistency of getting more and more chaotic as the film progresses.

Newbies for this final chapter: Anne Hathaway, Tom Hardy-plays a psychotic Bane, and  Marion Cotillard define the franchise as it stands once the films credits roll. Their performances are phenomenal and special.

Perhaps it's the most successful franchise of its kind, "The Dark Knight", has been an iconic and revolutionary piece of cinema that fans of all kinds of film, even superhero films, will love. But be forewarned, this trilogy isn't your average superhero tale. This film presents an amazing and chilling end to an iconic saga of an iconic superhero.

Poster courtesy of Lengendary Pictures and Syncopy

Rate: A 

Director: Christopher Nolan 

Starring: Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Marion Cotillard, Tom Hardy, Anne Hathaway, Gary Oldman, with Joseph Gordon-Levett and Morgan Freeman

MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for intense sequences of violence and action, some sensuality and language)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 25 Minutes 

Synopsis: It has been eight years since Batman vanished into the night, turning, in that instant, from hero to fugitive. Assuming the blame for the death of D.A. Harvey Dent, the Dark Knight sacrificed everything for what he and Commissioner Gordon both hoped was the greater good. For a time the lie worked, as criminal activity in Gotham City was crushed under the weight of the anti-crime Dent Act. But everything will change with the arrival of a cunning cat burglar with a mysterious agenda. Far more dangerous, however, is the emergence of Bane, a masked terrorist whose ruthless plans for Gotham drive Bruce out of his self-imposed exile. But even if he dons the cape and cowl again, Batman may be no match for Bane. 

Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022)

For over a decade, the "Despicable Me" series has been a global phenomenon for audiences. The most significant part of the iconic film series is the minions. The henchmen of Steve Carrell's eponymous character, Gru, are back in this sequel to the 2015s "Minions".  This new film shows once again that the infectiousness of these films are still alive and well. Unlike its predecessor, this sequel has what that film did not have, and that's consistency. With this film being delayed multiple times throughout the past few years, this was worth the wait. 

The humor in this film is just as you would expect from the crew at "Illumination", as funny as ever! Though the previous installment was not as nearly as entertaining as this sequel is. This film is the reason why myself and audiences everywhere are so entertained by these funny characters. The antics from the minions are just as goofy as they have ever been and this film reiterates the fact that these films are comedy gold. 

Steve Carell returns as Gru in this sequel that details the origins of how the character became a villain. His voice work as a young Gru is similar to that of the original one but it's just as effective as it has been in the rest of the franchise. His talents in the films have proven to rank among my personal favorite animated film franchises of all time. Starring alongside him are Alan Arkin, Julie Andrews (reprising her role as Grus mom), Taraji P. Henson and Michelle Yeoh. They add just as much entertaining fun as much as Carell does and that chemistry is on full display. 

What a film like this without the minions? They are the best part of the film and that goes without saying. The humor among them is the best yet! I think that much like I did, audiences will get a kick out of their shenanigans. On top of the mischief of the minions, is the soundtrack. Compiled with hits from the 1970s, this film remains an entertaining delight. Now, the action is great with the high standards of the franchise. It keeps the film exciting throughout the whole thing. 

Ever since the first "Despicable Me" came out in 2010, who knew that it would go on to become one of cinemas biggest animated franchises of all time? This film shows once again that the love and enjoyment of these films won't go away. This film is yet another great example of an entertaining animated film. The franchise has been beloved by audiences of all ages and I don't see that love dying anytime soon. This film is proof of that. 

Poster courtesy of Illumination and Universal 

Rate: A

Director: Kyle Balda

Starring: Steve Carell, Julie Andrews, Pierre Coffin, Taraji P. Henson, Alan Arkin and Michelle Yeoh

MPAA Rating: PG (for some action, violence and rude humor) 

Runtime: 1 Hour and 27 Minutes

Synopsis: In the heart of the 1970s, amid a flurry of feathered hair and flared jeans, Gru (Oscar® nominee Steve Carell) is growing up in the suburbs. A fanboy of a supervillain supergroup known as the Vicious 6, Gru hatches a plan to become evil enough to join them. Luckily, he gets some mayhem-making backup from his loyal followers, the Minions. Together, Kevin, Stuart, Bob, and Otto--a new Minion sporting braces and a desperate need to please--deploy their skills as they and Gru build their first lair, experiment with their first weapons and pull off their first missions. When the Vicious 6 oust their leader, legendary fighter Wild Knuckles (Oscar® winner Alan Arkin), Gru interviews to become their newest member. It doesn't go well (to say the least), and only gets worse after Gru outsmarts them and suddenly finds himself the mortal enemy of the apex of evil. On the run, Gru will turn to an unlikely source for guidance, Wild Knuckles himself, and discover that even bad guys need a little help from their friends.

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.