"An attack...has decimated the British Capital"
Its that kind of film again. You know...the typical fun but brainless action film. It won't be hard to mention what went wrong with this film...or the things it just lacks. But it really is fun when it should be so I won't be complaining like crazy. There's a lot it can improve on, though, but it doesn't make it an unwatchable film.
So, the plot. Straightforward and mindless. I think even you and I here wouldn't have a hard time writing this film. And every scene in the film is nothing you've never seen in an action film before. And honestly, the film lacks characterization. Every character you see is either a good guy or a bad guy. There's no two-dimensional characters...you know, like one that's conflicted or have some sort of character development in the film. None of those.
And while the action sequences are not bad, the visual effects...are. Oh, don't get me started about the visual effects...well, actually, I will. Its poorly done. And unfortunately, in the first half of the film a lot of these are required. There are big scale events, but it just makes it that much more visibly poor. But when these are not glaringly obvious, the action sequences are actually good enough.
Especially for one particular scene towards the end...which is a shootout in the streets...and I particularly liked it because it employs a tracking shot. A long continuous shot following the main character, which I have to say, in this case, it is brilliantly done. All the more impressive is that a cool firefight is involved in the scene. Sometimes tracking shots deserved commendments, and in this case, it really is excellently done. And I loved it.
In the end, its a very fun yet mindless action film. Its so easy to say that if you enjoy fast-paced, mindless action films, then this film is for you. If you need a smart plot or characters to get you engaged, then this might not be. Me, personally, I wouldn't particularly say its good, but I enjoyed it while it lasted.
VERDICT: 6.0
"No matter what type of animal you are...change starts with you"
I am seriously trying not to stereotype Disney animation movies as ever-so-brilliant, but this film is honestly brilliant. I will perhaps be one of the few relieved faces when a Disney animation film comes out being so-so or not so good, because then I'll have something different to write. But back about the film...Zootopia is brilliant! Not as mind-blowing as Inside Out was, but every aspect of the film is executed brilliantly. While Gods of Egypt is poorly done in every single aspect...Zootopia is the opposite.
Firstly, I just want to talk about the idea/concept for a little bit. The concept of the film plays with the idea that animals can live in a city just like humans do, involving things like trains, iphones, apartments...mayors, polices, mafias...its a brilliant concept to be honest, and how it mirrors the reality of our real lives is smartly reflected in this film. Funnily, to me, the idea didn't feel that groundbreaking, but if I had to look back, I can't recall any film using this concept before. In any case, the best thing about this film is that it is executed perfectly such that seeing these animals do the things we do is both hilarious and smart.
And 'smart' is indeed the best word to describe this film. The plot is the aspect I'd really like to commend. Especially during the latter half of the film, how things unfold and its outcome is very smartly done. I personally love the final climactic scene...which I won't spoil here, but it really is smart, as far as the plot goes.
One of the other thing that really stands out to me is the relationship between the two main characters, Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) & Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman). How they learn about each other throughout the film, and most importantly, learn to trust each other, is brilliant. And then there's the occasional banter - with the carrot pen, and the name calling, etc - which is just excellent to watch.
And even after all this, everything else within the film is brilliantly done. The humour is great, the drama is there...and more importantly, the moral message is there, too. Oh, and I really love that song as well...'Try Everything' from Shakira. Brilliant song!
As I said before, this film is not too mind-blowing, but not to say its not memorable. In fact, it is...and I love the film...and I wouldn't get bored watching this film over and over. So, its safe to say that I really recommend you all to watch Zootopia.
(Oh, and after the Verdict/Score, there will be a spoiler paragraph...so don't proceed below that if you haven't seen the film)
VERDICT: 9.0
### SPOILERS BELOW!! SPOILERS BELOW!! ###### SPOILERS BELOW!! SPOILERS BELOW!! ###
I just want to share with you why I particularly love the final climactic scene...in the museum bit where Bellwether hit Nick with a blueberry. Firstly, I love the fact that they made use of the recording feature of the carrot pen...which has been an item of back-and-forth banter between Judy & Nick. And using this to beat the main culprit is just a brilliant move. And secondly, after thinking about it again, it was brilliant that Nick had decided to fake the savagery. Because in doing that, Bellwether somehow feels secure enough to blabber about her secrets & plans, with the thought that Judy was never going to make it out of there, anyway. So, its a very brilliant scene, and the resolution of it was just brilliantly & perfectly executed. I am totally in awe and amazed of this particular scene. Brilliant!
"Are you sure you're not a god?
I need to accept the fact that this is still early in the year where the films are mostly not high-profile or established blockbusters. This film was criticised all over the place when the trailer came out. Yet, now, the film itself didn't even prove any of it wrong. The only positive I can think of is...well, probably one of the action sequences...and a bit of humour...a bit. Everything else about this film is just a gigantic mess. Oh, and at least I get to see the teaser trailer of X-Men: Apocalypse...a trailer I've seen 50 times over. (Although, trailers are indeed more amazing to see in the big screen).
I'm not sure where to start now, because everything in this film went wrong. Let's start with the plot, one of the most crucial thing to a film. The plot in this film is totally incoherent. A lot of the scenes doesn't feel connected or even necessary to the plot. Usually a subplot contributes to the main story, but not in here. I don't even understand why some of the characters or some scenes even need to exist. Perhaps, just to fill in the time??
The action sequences are bad. The visual effects are so poorly done. Like, very poor. Worse than some of the TV series I have seen (like The Flash). And then there's the camera angle. Too many spinning shots, and the quick jumps don't help, either. This makes from some very cringeworthy battle to witness. Except for one action sequence where I have to admit I find rather entertaining (when they battle in the air with a spear that fires beams). But then when there are no action going on, the dialogues are poor. Very cheesy & typical dialogues. And in scenes where you'd expect some suspense or mystery, they didn't bring it to the scene. Everything just conveniently happens, and nothing makes sense.
There is the occasional bit of humour that works. But most of the characters are very one-dimensional. The actors didn't do a bloody good job at all. Except one Chadwick Boseman, whose character, Thoth, came out pretty interesting, but due to the poor plot, never really takes the stage.
Honestly, when I watched the film, it wasn't as terribly bad as my comments above suggests...but all aspects of the film are just poorly done. I didn't get terribly disappointed because I knew this was always going to be a guilty pleasure film...it's just a poorly executed one. It's so sad when the best thing you take away after walking out of the theatre is the fact that you managed to see the X-Men: Apocalypse trailer on the big screen.
VERDICT: 4.0
"None of you have to go...but we're the only help they have"
(And yes, none of you have to go and see this film!)
I have to be honest with you...this film is boring. It looked cool in the trailer, and it has potential with a plot based on a true story. But the plot fell flat, and suddenly the film is just firefight after firefight. And believe me, without the plot holding it together, even the action sequences doesn't feel interesting anymore...all there is just bunch of guys shooting at another bunch of guys. The only thing interesting are the actors, which did their best to make their character interesting despite the hollow plot.
I have no idea what the critics were thinking. Seriously, at least Transformers: Age of Extinction has a plot - a senseless one, but a plot, nevertheless. And that plot drives the action to different places. In 13 Hours, its a lot of introduction in the first act, followed by a quick turnaround of events where everything goes to hell, followed by what is essentially...wave after wave of enemy attacks. If people are saying this feels like a video game...it truly does. A boring video game at that. There is no plot that really drives the action to different places or different scenarios.
And for that last hour, even the action sequences are boring. There is some quality to how the scenes are shot, I'd give them that. But after a few minutes, seeing the same people shooting in the same place is - and there's no better way to say it - boring. Imagine seeing the whole of the last act being like that. The soldiers that we're supposed to root for is just pinned down in one place, fending of wave after wave of attack. Not only does it get boring, but in the end, it loses its suspense and intensity.
If there's any positives in this film, is that the actors did their job well and made their characters interesting enough, despite the substanceless plot. And Michael Bay did good enough from a purely directing perspective alone. Other than that, I'm totally disappointed by the film. Even the scenes in between the action are dull...its the usual 'military guy has a family' type of dialogue...its cliche and worst of all, its incoherent to the general tone of the film. In the end, I'm very much disappointed with the film. This film has a lot of potential but falls flat wherever it mattered.
VERDICT: 3.0
London Has Fallen (Mar 4-USA, Mar 3-UK, Mar 3-Singapore)
There isn't really much to say about this film now. It is an action flick. An interesting one. But I wouldn't expect too much from this film. The predecessor of this film is a fun enough action flick, with a plot of a terrorist attack of the White House. This sequel apparently looks to follow a similar concept, except this time London is attacked, and not just the White House. And...yepp. That's about all I have in mind, really. I suppose you'll just have to wait and see until after watching this film to hear my thoughts on them.
Trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AsOdX7NcJs (Trailer #1)
Zootopia (Mar 4-USA, Mar 25-UK, Feb 25-Singapore)
Disney! It has been a while since we last saw a Disney animation flick. The most recent one was Big Hero 6, which was spectacular. And so was the film before it (Frozen), apparently...and the one before it (Wreck-It Ralph)...and the one before it (Tangled), too. All these recent Disney animation films have been nothing short of spectacular. Many have righfully compared this moment to the Disney Renaissance Era (Lion King, Mulan, etc). The films mentioned above are funny, entertaining yet touching altogether.
Of course, we can only hope that the trend continues with Zootopia. There is yet a fresh concept that is brought within this film: a city of animals. And the trailers...they're pretty awesome. And yes, while there is no guarantee that this film will be spectacular as well...if there's one animation studio I wouldn't bet against...its Disney.
Trailers:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nP9hU8eUfE (Teaser)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvEzTjuM81A (Trailer #2)
The Divergent Series: Allegiant (Mar 18-USA, Mar 11-UK, Mar 17-Singapore)
The first entry, Divergent, was pretty solid, but the second one, Insurgent, was kind of a let down, for me. Also, the ending of the latter seems pretty peaceful, so I'm not really eager to witness what happens next to some characters I'm not even that invested on. And maybe that's mainly the problem with Insurgent. The characters become less and less relatable and likeable. Even the trailers for Allegiant keep bringing up the idea that Tris, the main character, is super special, etc, etc. And that just makes her character harder to relate to.
For sure, I will still watch this film, if for no other reason than to fill my time. But I won't be going in with any level of anticipation or excitement.
Trailers:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tE8LEPSTK6A (Trailer #1)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fe-P2iv4Vxw (Trailer #2)
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (Mar 25-USA, Mar 25-UK, Mar 24-Singapore)
Now this is the big one! The first of the two big superhero clash of the year. The battle between DC's flagship superheroes, Batman & Superman. This really is something that comic book fans all over the world has been dreaming to witness in the big screen. The Dark Knight taking on The Man of Steel.
And yet, this is not all the film has to offer, as the second half of the title subtly suggests. The film will show the initial formation or the roots of The Justice League, DC's equivalent of The Avengers. We will even get to see Wonder Woman in action for the first time in this film...and according to reports, we probably will get to see cameos from Aquaman, The Flash, etc.
There is a lot riding on this film, which will open the gates for the DC Extended Universe to play their part in the cinematic world. But in the hands of Zack Snyder, I have full confidence that this film is going to be a hit. I'm already super excited to witness this epic film.
But if you're not a comic book fan...and if the phrase 'Batman v Superman' somehow doesn't appeal to you...then do check out the trailers below. Although if you want to avoid some spoilers (recall the case of Terminator Genisys?), then you may want to avoid trailer #2. Of course, comic book fans would have already been spoiled, because there's no way we'd miss such a trailer. In any case, take my word for it that this is going to be one epic film.
Trailers:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xe1LrMqURuw (Teaser)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bha24P9uw-E (Trailer #1) (Must See!!)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvP4RIqSbiw (Trailer #2) (Warning: Spoiler-y)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eX_iASz1Si8 (Final Trailer)
Other Movies:
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot (March 4)
-A promising comedy with a fresh & interesting concept involving war/military...looks great!
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2V8V6-VjnWw)
10 Cloverfield Lane (March 10)
-A surprise (recently announced) film which is a blood relative to Cloverfield...
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saHzng8fxLs)
Midnight Special (March 18)
-A lower budget sci-fi film that looks very interesting...
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zuQTmVCEn4)
"Surprise! This is a different kind of superhero story"
This film succeeds in what it meant to achieve. The character Deadpool in this film is every bit the character that comic book fans know from the comics. He is the ultimate unconventional superhero, and it shows perfectly in this movie. The character brings out the most fun out of every situation, and it plays out perfectly in this movie. But the film itself isn't without flaws. There was too much focus on the flashbacks, and the rest of the plot is nothing short of cliche.
If there is one thing that this film did perfectly, is how they bring out the character of Deadpool. The character is every inch the comic book character, and this film made him the superhero that everyone needed to see. With around 4-6 comic book movies coming out yearly, audiences needed this. The different superhero. Mind you, all the other superhero films are great (and some are clearly better than this film), but they all bring about the same tone & message in the end. Deadpool reverses them, and became this superhero that everyone needed to see.
Also, the other thing they did brilliantly is in the breaking of the fourth wall. These moments are particularly brilliant. Not only in the way that the character speaks to the audience, but also in the way that the character acknowledges the world we live in. In other words, the character speaks out what we have in our mind, references pop culture, etc. Also, there's some of those jabs at the studios or even other films, which in this film, plays out brilliantly.
The problem with this film, for me, is when the character is unmasked. As Deadpool, the character is perfect. As Wade Wilson...well, its not that its not great...but the film spends way too long setting up the origin story of this character and how he gets his powers. Also, the love story. I was never into it, and I think the film spends way too much time on an aspect that is not what Deadpool is. I'm pretty sure Deadpool in the comics is never known for his compassion & love.
And after the halfway mark, when the film really kicks in, the plot is well...straightforward & cliche, in every respect. There may be some of those minor scenes/details that plays out unconventionally & fun, but the major plotline is very predictable. And in the end, these major events actually makes it feel just like another superhero movie. A very cliche superhero movie that plays out the scenes unconventionally and makes the most fun along the way.
VERDICT: 7.5
"I'm not afraid to die anymore...I'd done it already"
Reviewing this film, for me, isn't that straightforward. Particularly as I am a fanboy most of all, and just a bit of a critic. I go to the movies to enjoy them, but seeing as many films as I have, I certainly have learnt to appreciate films and filmmaking and the elements behind them. Which brings me to the case of this film. I don't fully enjoy the film from start to end, but I recognize the great acting & directing involved.
To be honest, this film is probably never made for enjoyment. Its safe to presume that this is that kind of film that aims to win the Oscars or the Golden Globes (which it did). Which is why, coming into this film, I had to lessen my expectations and heighten my respect a little. Its more like watching art, than basking oneself in cinematic experience.
Coming out of this film, what I learnt was that the Hollywood Foreign Press was right to award the Best Director to Alejandro Inarritu and the Best Actor to Leo DiCaprio. Seriously, Leo brings a terrific performance. Within the first hour, I am already convinced that this man deserves the award. Funny thing is, the same can be said for Alejandro Inarritu. His use of natural lighting brings a much more realistic feel to the scenes. And the long continuous takes is accompanied by some brilliant camera movements. I think he does this more as an art than as a film.
That being said, the film itself had some great moments that I personally enjoyed myself, especially in the opening scenes, and the scenes towards the end. But a lot in between are scenes that you wouldn't really call entertaining. If anything, they are intense. And if I had to mention flaws, the first thing I would call out is that the soundtrack is crap. It really is. And while this next aspect may be intentional, it doesn't take away the fact that the film lacks humour & is too slow-paced for a straightforward plot.
But in the end, the best way to describe this film is that this is not film for those seeking enjoyment. You may need to bring a little respect of films and filmmaking to be able to find this film worth the time. But the critics were right in terms of the acting & directing. And you would have to bear (no pun intended) the lack of comedy & pace. Its more art than entertainment.
(Note: For reasons clearly stated above, the score below is not representative of how good the film is, but of how much I enjoy/admire the film)
VERDICT: 6.5
