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Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
Deeply Personal
This movie left me unnerved with all the emotions it threw at me. I can't say I've seen a romance movie anything like it but my heart was torn at by Joel and Clementines relationship. So often we desperately grasp for the love we've felt in the past and I've never seen that feeling so honestly depicted in a film. It's heartbreaking to see Joel have his world, a world of the past, ripped away from him. All the memories first bitter than pleasant have had a profound effect, yet in a rash decision such a substantial part of life can be taken away. What is truly profound about this film is how impactful our partners can be whether or not things work out for the better. The film's ending really makes you think about whether or not our relationships would work if given a second chance. There's no way to know, but there's something beautiful about the journey in Joel's mind through his relationship. We forget how often take for granted the memories we've had with our past lovers. Rarely does a film depict romance in a unique and personal way which stings even after you view it. Don't watch this film unless you're ready for an emotional burden, but if romance is something you value, this might resonate in a way which truly feel like a painful yet profound punch in the gut...
Joker (2019)
Phillips is the true Joker
Not only does Joker fail to capture the essence of a Scorcesse film but it fails to deliver at its most tense moments. This is because Phillips handles topics such as mental health, politics, and humanity itself inadequately and it feels like a rallying cry for incels and self-pitying individuals. This is unfortunate because there are stellar performances by all of the ensemble cast not to mention Joaquin Phoenix truly feels like the Joker. He is believable throughout as he is incredibly expressive through the many closeups on his tormented face and his ability to laugh seemingly on command. Not only this but the cinematography feels crisp and modern frequently using a crushed depth of field so we can focus on the madness that is the Joker. Technically this film is excellent but my grievances are with its inability to properly depict mental health and it just feels edgy. Also, the police are a joke in this film and society itself lacks any sort of logical morality. Anyways when watching this maybe you'll come to realize that Todd Phillips did not do this justice as it needed what it was lacking, the essence of a Scorcesse film. Let's be honest, this film is not a masterpiece and I don't know why so many people think it is but it's nothing more than a studio film trying to wear an arthouse mask.
Midsommar (2019)
Beautiful Madness
Unlike any horror film you've seen in recent years, Midsommar is beautiful, disturbing, and uncomfortable throughout. As we accompany our protagonists on their journey to the countryside of Sweden, the peaceful and serene setting the film establishes is slowly corrupted. Piece by piece the angelic facade the film creates slowly deteriorates. As an audience we feel this unnerving tension develop through the minor changes in the behavior of the Swedish hosts. It creates a world which seems almost like a dream, but is grounded by the relatability of the protagonists and the empathy we as an audience seek to feel. With its strange rituals and nonsensical customs, Midsommar truly is an experience which is best explained only through watching the film. Midsommar doesn't try to scare you, but rather leave you unsettled with its countless memorable shots that will stay with you once you leave the theater. So rather than continue to explain, do yourself a favor and watch this beautiful cultish nightmare
If you enjoy arthouse films, this is a horror movie you won't want to skip.
Avengers: Endgame (2019)
A Massive End to a Massive Franchise
Although I've had my issues with many of the Marvel films, I have to say this film feels like a fitting conclusion to the massive empire Marvel has amassed. This truly felt like a superhero film to me as it was gargantuan and the film is packed with epic moments. All the triumphs the Avengers have in the film really propel them to a legendary status only works because of the years of world building Marvel has done. There's plenty of moments which inspire awe amongst Marvel fans and it thrives under a complex narrative, highlighting the true nature of heroism. The chemistry between characters feels truly authentic and the dynamic between Captain America and Iron Man in this film elevates them to generational icons, giving them the well developed characterization they deserve. The well crafted and driven plot feels much more focused than Inifinity War which was devoid of charm amongst its other issues. There was no Thanos centric plot which feels forced and each hero in the film is able to shine though their chatcter arcs. Sure we don't have all of our beloved heroes that died in infinity war, but it gives the heroes who survived the room to stand out from the crowd. This film is truly a massive blockbuster and I doubt such a massive film will be made anytime soon. This film will be a landmark in cinema and how previous generations had Star Wars and other massive blockbusters, we will have Avengers: Endgame. This film truly feels like a proper ending to an massive anthology acting as an ode to Marvel fans and cinema goers alike. This is a moment in cinematic history, like it or not, so do yourself a favor and go watch this epic blockbuster.
Isle of Dogs (2018)
Wes Anderson Does it Again!
This film is wonderful for many reasons. The story was excellent (I mean who doesn't love dogs) through it's unique depiction of a dog hating society with dog lovers being the minority. It also looks fantastic and you can tell that a painstaking amount of effort went into making this film. I love how Wes Anderson made the film, particularly all of the symmetry. I found the ending to be profound and I thought it was rather cute while also being a film not really marketed towards kids. Isle of Dogs is a great movie with its well paced story and interesting characters. I definitely recommend
Aquaman (2018)
A Unique Maritime Epic
Let me start by saying this film is a definite improvement from past DC Films. This movie felt a bit long considering it's run time of 2hrs 23 mins as the epic scope of CGI scenes battled with trying to keep a simple plot refreshing. It is a film of royalty and myth which rewards this film by giving it the grand scale other DC films lack. Sure this film does follow the typical formula, but there are a few twists which keep the film from being an absolute bore. Visually this film is looks pretty as the nearly endless CGI serves as mostly pleasurable to the eyes. The various environments of the sea vary from illuminated wonder to dreary darkness but it is satisfying to see how broad film is with creating kingdoms of the sea. There is a scene where Aquaman spins his trident with terrible CGI but I'll ignore that. As for character development, this film has had more than a lot of past DC films and as an audience we learn enough about Aquaman to understand his motivation. This could go deeper but in an already long movie it would be quite difficult and would most likely become a snooze fest. There are moments that are bound to make you smirk in the dialogue and the characters are likable enough that you don't end up hating them and might come to enjoy them during the film. However, this is an action film and deep dialogue is the last thing you'd expect. There are moments which can be a bit cheesy or over the top but it is satisfying to follow Aquaman through his journey though the sea. His relationships add a layer of richness which somewhat invests you in his motivations and endeavors. If it wasn't for his companion Momoa, his brashness and over the top nature would be unbearable and annoying, but she provides an acceptable balance. Overall, this film entertains with its adventurous feel and monumental battles but it falls victim to a lengthy run time which is unbalanced in pacing. I would recommend and I feel cinemagoers will feel some sense of satisfaction from DCs oceanic epic. It is a refreshing take on a system which is formulaic (both Marvel and DC) with a unique setting and royal grandeur which sets it apart from its predecessors.
Won't You Be My Neighbor? (2018)
A Heartwarming Story
Absolutely heartwarming documentary that shines light on a man who really promoted a message of love for everyone. It felt so seamless and coming in not knowing much about Mr. Rogers I came out of that theatre with an appreciation for both the documentary and his life. One of the best documentaries ive seen and it's only 1hr 30mjn so it doesn't feel like it drags on either. Very underrated and I do recommend!
Isle of Dogs (2018)
Wes Anderson Does it Again!
This film is wonderful for many reasons. The story was excellent (I mean who doesn't love dogs) through it's unique depiction of a dog hating society with dog lovers being the minority. It also looks fantastic and you can tell that a painstaking amount of effort went into making this film. I love how Wes Anderson made the film, particularly all of the symmetry. I found the ending to be profound and I thought it was rather cute while also being a film not really marketed towards kids. Isle of Dogs is a great movie with its well paced story and interesting characters. I definitely recommend
Coco (2017)
Rich in Culture and Themes
Not only is Coco a beautiful film visually but also symbolically. The animation is incredibly vibrant at times, especially in the land of the dead. The way that Coco also portrays Dia De Los Muertos is also very profound and helps to shine light on the non-western concept that death is in how we are remembered as well as physically. Once you die in memories as well that is when you have truly died. There are very touching moments in the film and this is one of the few films that have made me cry. I loved all the references to Mexican culture and being that it is my heritage it made me very happy to watch this film.
Batman Ninja (2018)
Unique Animation with Flaws
Let's start this review with things I enjoyed from this DC animated movie. One standout aspect of this film was the unique style of animation that is similar to the style of Japanese animes, I honestly thought it looked pretty cool and was refreshing as it was something not you really see in the DCAU.
Action scenes look pretty great and are fast paced. Character design is unusual but doesn't look bad necessarily, i'd just call it unique. I love it's stylistic approach though they did that well. However, the story is kind of all over the place and had bad pacing at times, but second half of the film got better. The dialogue was a hot mess as well being pretty terrible at times. The final battle was full of action those scenes looked great. The voice acting was also very good and I don't see why people didn't appreciate it. This film is still pretty fun despite its flaws. Do remember that anime style is over the top and cheesy so when you criticize the film for that take into account what they were trying to achieve.
If you can overlook the dialogue and messy story then you will appreciate how well this movie is animated. I honestly think this film is hated too much but I can understand why. Give it one watch yourself but I wouldn't recommend watching it more than once to appreciate the visuals.
Paddington 2 (2017)
Wholesome Family Fun
I saw this on a flight to Japan and I can say that this film was delightful family fun. Very wholesome and it has its funny moments. Story might have been fairly basic but the pacing was still good and kept me engaged. The ending is sweet and heartwarming and the film has a certain charm to it. Did not see the first one but this movie can be watched standalone. It is a very bright and upbeat film filled with color and vibrance. The actors are passionate and overall this film is very positive. Great film for the family to enjoy and I recommend you give this movie a chance.
Bao (2018)
Another Unique Pixar Short
Bao is a very cute short animation. I honestly didn't realize the protagonist was a woman until I looked at a discussion on Reddit but that shouldn't stop your attachment to the characters of the story. It was a nice opener for Incredibles 2 and the ending was surprising. Definitely worth a few minutes of your time and it will pull on your heartstrings. Yes you may cry and laugh and Domee Shi did a great job making a fun short.
Incredibles 2 (2018)
The Wait is Over!
If you loved the first Incredibles then most of you were probably waiting patiently just like me. Now by no means is this sequel as good as the first but it is still well-done and very good for a sequel. I really enjoyed watching Bob take on the role of caring for the kids. The action sequences were very fast and entertaining beside the rapid flashing in the movie that might affect epileptic viewers. Anyway, this film is a lot of fun and it is also pretty humorous. There were a lot of times where a majority of the theater started chuckling and laughing so there was no absence of comedy. The villain arc was somewhat predictable but it still felt pretty satisfying and the story definitely had many interesting moments. The story flows well and should keep the whole family entertained.
Was this movie worth 14 years?
Yes, because if they did not take that much time it wouldn't have been as solid as this film is for a sequel. Just come into this film wanting to have fun watching it.
I loved the first and the second film is still very good. I definitely recommend you give the film a watch so you can form your own opinion and to enjoy a well made animated film.
The Greatest Showman (2017)
Pleasant Fun
I came into the Greatest Showman somewhat skeptical as I don't like many musicals but I was pleasantly surprised. The film as a whole is very entertaining and a lot of fun and after seeing critic reviews I don't see why they are so critical. The songs are stellar and catchy, it was well acted, and although it wasn't accurate to how events actually happened it is still a film that is very fun and enjoyable. Go into this film with an open mind and appreciate it for what it is. Musicals aren't very frequent nowadays and this is one that I would recommend to anyone reading this review.
Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
A Fresh New Take on a Timeless Character
I came in the Spider-Man Homecoming with high expectations as Marvel has put out solid movies despite playing it safe. It has a sense of realism that made it easy to connect to the film and its themes. I was not disappointed. The film thrives as it focuses on a young Peter Parker who is still struggling with finding his place as a young hero. His journey contains trials that would be found at the age of someone in high school which he has to also balance with his responsibilities of having powers too. The film is paced well and Tom Holland portrays the role of Peter Parker with a certain charisma that most viewers will enjoy. Michael Keaton is also very versatile in his villain role with his compelling acting. The supporting characters did well alongside Tom, and watching Zendaya's role was especially entertaining as she is not in the movie that much but delivers some of the better lines in the film. Overall, the film plays it safe, but is a much more fresh take on the Marvel formula then films like Ant-Man and Doctor Strange. I would definitely recommend that you give it a watch as it is one of the stronger films to come out this summer.