The Hunger Games: Catching Fire Movie Review

Category: Popcorn Movie

One of the most anticipated movie this year is definitely worth waiting. Francis Lawrence was given responsibility to continue the success both commercially and critically for this most awaited sequel. HE DID NOT DISAPPOINT. The thing I love about this film is the tone and the fluidity of the original is maintained in this one. If you weren't aware of the changes, you would have thought the previous director was not replaced in the first place. It also pays that the team was given a great story and fortunately, the writer for the screenplay did his level best to give the book justice.

The Hunger Games Catching Fire opens on the life as victors for both Katniss and Peeta and the roles they have to play and maintain throughout their tours of the other districts. The film also gave us a glimpse on the love triangle between Katniss, Peeta and Gale. Honestly, I am so confused with which guy she actually likes or loves. But I guess that's the best part. The film also delve into the political. The growing rebellion of the other districts against the capital. If that did not inspire you to even at least be curious to watch it, I don't know what will.

Delightfully talented Jennifer Lawrence continue her role as Katniss after winning and deservingly so (others may not agree) an Academy Award. I personally believe that her acting in the original is better but I still love her. I cried especially in the scene where she was sharing a story about Rue.  The movie has no downtime. Pacing and tone is maintained throughout. And the acting of the whole cast is superb and that is not something you can say for other recently released franchises. Two standout performances came from Elizabeth Banks and Stanley Tucci. Elizabeth Banks with her outrageous outfits is probably one of the best acting I have seen so far this year. She is so underrated. I hope she gets accolades for her performance in this film. Other highlight of the movie is the special effects. Obviously, the profit from the previous one was utilized accordingly and hopefully that will carry on toward the next two sequels. I have refrained from reading books that are made into movies with the exemption of some other series. In this one, I just read the original because I don't like feeling disappointed. But I think fans of the books will highly appreciate the effort and execution. The team behind Catching Fire has exceeded the bar set by the previous film and I am not sure how they can top this for the next series.
 

I cannot wait for the finale. I actually forgot that I was in the cinema because there are certain scenes that I wanted to rewind with my remote and that reminded me where I actually was. I highly recommend this movie and I am actually looking forward to watching it again this weekend.

 

Rate: 10/10

Next Movie(s) Plan: Ender's Game, 47 Ronin, Frozen
 

The Counselor Movie Review

Category: Not Worth Watching

 

I haven't had the energy to write a comment about this hideous movie. I am actually quite angry because I have been following Ridley Scott's career since Gladiator and have been enjoying his movies a lot until this film came to theaters. I did not watch the movie because of its stellar cast but because of its talented director. I guess it was a mistake to expect so much but I was embarrassed because I invited other people to watch it with me unfortunately it took a lot of will power to not fall asleep in the cinema.

 

I honestly did not understand the movie at all. Due to my frustration and complete lost in translation, more than halfway of the film, I decided to go to Wikipedia.com to read the plot summary of the movie so I can understand it. I have used so much of my brain cells to try and follow the whole film, but needless to say, it was such a waste of effort. Truth be told, I am surprised that the cinema was relatively full so I hope it's due to the only other movie showing which is THOR. The silver lining of this film is the performance of Cameron Diaz. WOW!!! I have never been a huge fan of her acting because she seems to have a short range of it. But after watching her in this one, this woman has so much potential. Kudos to her.

 

All in all, do not even bother. This should be completely erased from Ridley Scott's filmography. It does not deserve to be part of it.

 

Rate: 1/10  

Thor: The Dark World Movie Review

 

Category: Popcorn Movie

 

Apparently, not everyone is in love with this movie including those that I know personally. I honestly do not understand why. First of all, this is better than Man of Steel. That movie makes me want to sleep and I ended up having back pains after watching it. Thor: The Dark World is everything you would expect from a purely popcorn movie. Pure Entertainment. Period! 

 

The original is arguably better written and better executed possibly because it was directed by the talented Kenneth Branagh. It looks to gear towards the more mature and sophisticated audience compare to other Marvel produced movies in recent times which is more kid-friendly. The sequel feels more like the latter. Maybe because the studio saw that its contemporaries are more successful than what they had on the original. In short, they took a route towards a more superficial than substance approach.

 

Kenneth Branagh was initially attached to direct the sequel but time- constraint made him forego the project altogether. Here comes numerous names attached to direct, then Alan Taylor who is better known to direct several episodes for Game of Thrones came along. I am a huge fan of GOT so hopefully the guy could deliver as good at what I saw in the small screen to the big screen. Alas, the guy did. The movie is the total opposite of the original. (Not exactly a bad thing) More raw and less sophisticated. Louder and more chaotic. Bigger effects and more humor. It sort of reminds me of a Josh Whedon signature style of direction. Avengers anyone? At first, you would have concluded that the movie might actually be a product of Whedon's but he is in fact a consultant for several scenes in this film apparently or so I read.

 

Expect the same from all the actors especially Tom Hiddleston who I thought is marvelous in this film. No doubt the only actor who can play the charismatic and manipulative Loki. The two lead actors are definitely an eye- candy and their chemistry still sizzle even knowing that the two are both happily- married in real life.

 

Again, I don't understand why people do not love it. I do. Is it better than the original? I personally don't think so. It really depends on what you want to see. Anyway, the movie has two post- credit scenes so make sure to finish the credits and wait for the last one before you leave the cinema. Have munchies and have fun watching!

 

Rating: 8/10

 

Tom Hanks teams up with Paul Greengrass for "Captain Phillips"

Category: Oscar Worthy

It has been a long time since Tom Hanks has grace the big screen and now he is back with a BANG. Teaming up with Paul Greengrass in this biopic is nothing short of SPECTACULAR. Paul Greengrass known for his shaky camera work brought us a movie about the heroic action of one Captain Phillips. Although the real life captain was apparently surrounded by controversies brought about by individuals none other than his crew claiming that the former has allegedly place them in jeopardy in the first place. But hey, this is not about that.

The movie instantly dives to the timeline from the events prior to the capture. It didn't give us any substantial background on his life and family. The film basically focuses on the events and the actions of that of Captain Phillips. He was shown to be observant and persistent in making the commercial vessel and its crew safe and secure. The antagonist of this movie played by Barkhad Abdi, who in my opinion, is a gem. I do not know how Paul Greengrass was able to discover this guy but I sure hope he can have an acting career because he is great in this film and I sincerely think nobody can play his part better than him.

When the film goes to the chase scene, that's where the film REALLY started. It's very stressful, intense, and you are unconsciously holding your breath while the scene unfolds in front of you. I do believe that there are certain films that can help you become more insightful and resourceful. This is one of them. The steps that the main character took was measured, precise and key to making not only his crew safe but also the commercial vessel from being taken. I also have to give props to his second-in-command because without him, I do not think they would have been successful in the first place. There are definitely moments when you question certain things like there were only 4 armed men and there are about 20 of them, why can't they try to overcome the pirates? But you have to agree, that sometimes when threat to your life arrives, you certainly have to think twice before you risk it.

With Paul Greengrass direction, this biopic was raised to another level. Although I am not a huge fan of his cinematography techniques, I still love him because of the rawness and unpretentious way he directs his actors. Plus his scenes is always the best. Heart thumping and basically incredibly intense and stressful.

This film marks another brilliant performance from Tom Hanks. The rescue scene where he is being treated is by far one of the best acting I have seen from him EVER. That to me proves that he deserves at least an Academy nomination for his portrayal. You really felt everything he is trying to convey.

This movie is another great one this year along with Gravity. I highly recommend everyone to watch it. Great job!

Rating: 10/10   

The Walking Dead Episode(s) Review: S04E02 and S04E03

Snapshot from Ep. 4x02/03

Episode 4x02: Infected/ Episode 4x03: Isolation

So far so good. What I love about these two episodes is that it tries to develop individual characters and creating an interesting plot which Season 2 previously failed. It didn't try to fit all the elements in one pacing but instead it slowly builds up its momentum providing enough substance, quality storytelling and gore which interestingly enough you don't get to see in zombie movies nowadays.

 

In Episode 2, the story took quite a unpredictable turn with providing another twist that endlessly put the plight of our survivors into the edge. Providing that the people has created a community that enables them to at least try and live a seemingly normal life in a bizarre and dangerous situation. We see how the events has helped bring closer the people and have functional roles to help further their survival. It is noted also that even children are given responsibilities and expose them at a very early age to learn to survive and even KILL the closest people to them when they turn.

 

Episode 3 is probably one of the best episodes from the whole series. Aside from the hordes of zombies, the episode has plenty of heart and you feel for the characters and understand their position and predicament better. Especially Hershel. The man has become an anchor somewhat by the whole group, gives them perspective and helps them maintain their humanity despite the circumstances.

 

It's hard to make a review of the episodes without giving too much information. But because there are so many twists, I do not want to spoil it for you. On the other hand, these two are a MUST- SEE! 

 

I hope the producers, writers, and show runner can keep giving us quality zombie TV. I think the series is back in full force. Great episodes. Quite excited for the next one. I hope it is as good as the promo trailer.  

Rating: 9/10 (4x02) and 10/10 (4x03)

Downright Hilarious and Witty " DON JON"



Category: Popcorn Movie

I still remember one of the first movies of Joseph Gordon Lewitt that I love so much when I was young, Angels in the Outfield, then as a teenager, 10 Things I Hate about You. Who would've thought that this child actor has actually have it takes to maintain longevity in his career not only as an actor but now as an up and coming director.  

 

I only saw the trailer for Don Jon as an accident. I am one of those people who checks out Official Trailers for movies showing this year and incoming years in Youtube. I stumbled upon its trailer and decided to check it out.  I was laughing by the end of the trailer and thought, "maybe there is something about this movie worth checking out especially with the plot that the director decided to explore."  PORN ADDICTION! Hahaha! Now that is something you don't get to see and watch everyday in the movie theater. I immediately thought bringing some of my closest girlfriends to watch it with me.

 

The movie starts with a bang! It immediately dives into the world of Don Jon. It didn't missed anything. The script and the acting is so on-point and witty. Plus the actors are so hilarious in the movie especially Tony Danza. This guy is such a comedic genius! His character is tailor- made for him and even try to steal any scene that he is in it. The soundtrack is another highlight. It gives the scene additional character and identity that when you hear it you immediately knew what the lead star is doing. The way the movie is written is simple but one thing that made it great is that it has substance. It went to a deeper level that made you appreciate it more.

 

I highly recommend this movie be watched amongst friends. To see your friends' reaction is another plus and it makes the whole experience better and more entertaining. I am looking forward to another film from Joseph Gordon Lewitt. Very promising from who I believe is one of the best actors of his generation. Kudos!

 

Rating: 8/10

 

Next Movie(s) Plan: Thor 2, The Hunger Games Catching Fire

Not even The Great Robert De Niro can save "The Family"

Category: Nothing Special

I cannot believe that the man responsible in revitalizing the career of Liam Neeson as an action star is also responsible for directing this bland and unforgettable movie. Anyone heard of the movie, TAKEN? Yes, same person.  

 

The Family is led by some of the industry's veteran and respected actors. When I first saw the trailer, it reminded me of the movie RED. Fun and pure entertainment starred by actors who are known for serious acting for serious, Oscar Worthy movies. It caught my attention because it looks just plain fun. I should've known better than place this movie on a pedestal. But can you blame me? Just read the credits. And have I mentioned that it is also co- produced by Martin Scorsese? Unfortunately, not all that caliber can save this one.

 

I honestly think that the premise has so much potential. It has so many angles that it can tackle but instead they came up with such an average and predictable plot. The movie can be dragging at times and also the climactic scene is so irritating that when the name LUC BESSON showed up in the credits as the director, I just couldn't contain my disappointment. The members of the family are known for their "revenge" tactics that when the time it really needs for them to use all those moves, they fell flat.  

 

Moreover, I believe that Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Tommy Lee Jones could've been given better material and I cannot believe they decided to star in this movie. Diana Agron may be pretty in the screen but she looks like a talentless twit in this one unfortunately. Another downside? There is no subtitle! Given that there were plenty of scenes spoken in FRENCH! So I have no idea what there were talking about. 

 

Needless to say, I do not recommend this movie. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY.

 

Rating: 2/10

 

Next Movie(s) plan: Thor 2, The Hunger Games