1stbrigade Reviews

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010)

A Great Return to "Narnia."

[10/10 · 15 December 2010]

After "Prince Caspian" delivered a solid-but-far-from-perfect fantasy film, the "Chronicles of Narnia" series returns to top form with "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader." Here, Edmund and Lucy Prevensie, along with their cousin Eustace, return to the world of Narnia, where they join King Caspian on an adventure into uncharted waters, searching for the seven lords banished from their lands by Lord Miraz. All will face danger and temptation on their way to the Dark Island, and the ultimate path toward Aslan's Country.

While the film plays loosely while adapting C.S. Lewis's work, the changes made to "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" work a lot better than those made in "Prince Caspian." While Caspian made changes that didn't really serve the film, those changes here serve to make the story, which was more episodic in the book, more cohesive for the film, which is in good hands with director Michael Apted, who's good at both action ("The World is Not Enough") and storytelling ("Amazing Grace"). The cast and crew do a brilliant job of bringing this story to the silver screen. Fans of the "Narnia" series, and of fantasy adventure, will surely enjoy this film. And if it is indeed to be the last film in "The Chronicles of Narnia," it goes out with a bang! Grade: A

The A-Team (2010)

Both Surprised, and Pleased, that this Plan Came Together...

[10/10 · 11 June 2010]

Being a fan of the original series, I went in to the film adaptation with cautious anticipation. I knew it would be different from the show in some cases (i.e. there would be a death toll, whereas death rarely happened on the show), but I hoped there was enough glimmer of the show for it to be passable, and that the cast at least did a commendable job in their roles. But all my worries were out the door within the first ten minutes, as this proved to be everything I'd hoped for, and more. "The A-Team" is, without a doubt, the best adaptation of a TV show that I've seen! It delivers almost everything from the show: fun, over-the-top, exciting action sequences, great banter between the four main characters, and a strong storyline to follow, with a few twists and surprises in store. The four main leads (Liam Neeson, Sharlto Copley, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, and Bradley Cooper) fit the characters perfectly, while the supporting cast does a commendable job as well. While it does have a slight darker tone than the series, the film is overall a thrilling, and well-made film version of one of the Eighties' greatest shows! Fans of the show, and fans of great action films, will find much to love with "The A-Team!" As Colonel Smith is fond of saying, "I love it when a plan comes together." And this one comes together perfectly! Grade: A

Angels & Demons (2009)

An Exciting, More Fascinating Sequel to "The Da Vinci Code."

[9/10 · 7 June 2010]

While I enjoyed "The Da Vinci Code," it was a bit slow-going for the most part, though the actors did a good job of keeping the film interesting for the most part. But for the sequel, "Angels & Demons," the filmmakers have created an exciting sequel with a story that is more fascinating than the one of its predecessor, in my opinion. Tom Hanks is once again in top form as Robert Langdon, and the supporting cast, including Ewan McGregor, Stellan Skarsgård and Armin Mueller-Stahl, is excellent. The storyline may seem a bit convoluted at times, but the fast pace, fine storytelling and terrific performances make up for a lot. Overall, this is a superior sequel to "The Da Vinci Code" that fans of the novel, and regular movie-goers, will surely enjoy! Grade: A-

The Pacific (2010)

A Terrific Companion to "Band of Brothers."

[10/10 · 16 May 2010]

"As far as the Second World War goes, the war in the pacific was an entirely different war altogether," as Tom Hanks stated in an interview. So, like the war itself, "The Pacific" is an almost entirely different experience from "Band of Brothers." Does this mean it's bad? Not at all. As a companion piece to BOB, "The Pacific" is a fantastic ten-part miniseries detailing the experiences of the Marines who fought in the Pacific Theater of Operations during the Second World War. The first four episodes of the program were great, but not as good as what we'd seen in the previous WWII miniseries produced by Hanks, Steven Spielberg and Gary Goetzman. But from episode five on, the final episodes deliver a hard-edged, brutal and honest portrayal of the fighting that took place on Peleliu, Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Overall, the performances were terrific, the battle sequences terrifying and authentic, and the storytelling fantastic. From the first battles between the Marines and the Japanese on Guadalcanal, through the days of rest in Australia, through the rain-swelled hell of Cape Gloucester, the bloody airfield and hills of Peleliu, the tender moments before heading to combat on Iwo Jima, and the horrors of Okinawa, to the triumphant-but-uneasy return home at the end, "The Pacific" delivers a harrowing, emotionally-charged look at one of the most horrendous wars in human history. A great companion piece to "Band of Brothers," "The Pacific" is a must-see tribute to the men and women who fought a most brutal conflict for the freedoms we cherish today. Highly recommended! Grade: A+

Doctor Who: Flesh and Stone (2010) Season 5, Episode 5

The Time of Angels/Flesh and Stone

[10/10 · 3 May 2010]

In the previous regular season of Doctor Who, writer Steven Moffat presented the two part story "Silence in the Library/Forest of the Dead." That story can best be described as a "game changer" episode, meaning that new elements can be brought in to create something different and exciting for the show. For that story, it had been the inclusion of River Song, a character who knew the Doctor in his personal future, changing the perception of how the Doctor can meet a future companion. For the latest season, Moffat, who now serves as Head Writer and Executive Producer, he has crafted the first two-part story of the series, "The Time of Angels/Flesh and Stone." Like his previous two-parter, this also has elements of being a game changing episode. River Song returns, but the new element added is the idea that time itself can be re-written and unwritten. While some might see this as a clever way for Moffat to "retcon" some of the elements previous Writer/Executive Producer Russell T. Davies brought in, it does present major questions, such as: 1) Why does Amy never remember seeing the Daleks, and why does nobody remember the events of "The Next Doctor" (With a huge robot crushing Victorian London)? 2) How much of the show's nearly fifty-year history can, and will be re-written or unwritten? These are questions that will more than likely be answered as the rest of this series unfolds. As for the episodes themselves, it is another brilliant story from Moffat, including chills, thrills, humor, clever moments and fascinating supporting characters. After the disappointing Dalek story from before, this story proves that there is still life in the new series, and that we have more fascinating things to look forward to in this and the next series to come! Grade: A+

Doctor Who: Victory of the Daleks (2010) Season 5, Episode 3

The weakest episode since the show's return...

[5/10 · 1 May 2010]

"Victory of the Daleks" is definite proof of why the Doctor's greatest enemy needs to be rested for a season or two. New show runner Steven Moffat was keen on not having them return this season, but with new Doctor Matt Smith coming in, the BBC were concerned about the audiences accepting him as the Doctor, so Moffat was persuaded to bring them back for one episode. And the result is pretty much a "filler" episode, and the weakest entry to the series since it was revived in 2005. It's not without some merit. Matt Smith and Karen Gillan are filling their roles in quite nicely; Ian McNiece is great as Churchill; seeing British Spitfires facing off against a Dalek battleship in space is cool; the new-looking Daleks are a sight to behold, and; the question of why Amy doesn't know who the Daleks are is a good question. But the rest is pure contrivance, and makes this episode one that is worth skipping in the long run. Grade: C+

Doctor Who: The Eleventh Hour (2010) Season 5, Episode 1

"Hello, I'm the Doctor. Basically.....Run."

[10/10 · 3 April 2010]

After months of intense speculation and anticipation, the new series of "Doctor Who" finally hits the screen three months after the departure of the Tenth Doctor, David Tennant. Many questions were asked: Would Matt Smith be a worthy successor to Tennant, voted by many to be the most popular Doctor ever? Could new head-writer and executive producer Steven Moffat be able to deliver strong storytelling in the wake of Russell T. Davies' Departure? And most important of all, would "Doctor Who" survive these changes and more? The answer to all three questions is a most definite YES! While the first episode of the show, "The Eleventh Hour," begins kind of awkwardly in the first fifteen minutes, those weak points give way to one of the best season openers to date. Matt Smith is BRILLIANT as the Doctor in the first episode, proving he has what it takes, even at 27, to take the reigns of the Tardis from David Tennant. Karen Gillan proves to be a great choice as Amy Pond, the beautiful and sassy new companion. Brilliant writing, hilarious moments and terrific visuals all prove one thing: "Doctor Who" lives on! Grade: A

Doctor Who: The End of Time: Part Two (2010) Season Unknown, Episode Unknown

A Fitting Conclusion to the Tennant/Davies Era of "Doctor Who."

[10/10 · 2 January 2010]

In 2005, with huge attention from the media and the general public, "Doctor Who" returned to television, with Executive Producer/Head Writer Russell T. Davies at the helm, and with Christopher Eccleston in the lead role of the Doctor. Eccleston left after one season, handing the keys to the TARDIS over to David Tennant. For three regular seasons, and five specials between 2008 and 2010, the show reached the height of its popularity, even once reaching the top of the ratings for the first time in its 46-year history. But as with all good things, they never last. And with "The End of Time, Part Two," we see the end of the Tennant/Davies era of the series. And was it a worthwhile end? You'd better believe it! The episode delivered everything expected of a finale: excitement, humor, and strong storytelling delivered by a first-rate cast. From the first moments of the Time Lords plotting their return, to the final moment when David Tennant regenerates into Matt Smith, every moment fits perfectly into this epic conclusion to a two-part story. Kudos must definitely go out to David Tennant, who has delivered an incredible final performance as the Doctor, showing a real depth to the character that's so brilliant, we'll definitely miss him in the role. John Simm as always delivers a strong performance as the Master, and Bernard Cribbins is always wonderful as Wilfred Mott. Timothy Dalton was also fantastic as the Time Lord President Rassilon, delivering a chilling character that rivals that of the Master. What made this one memorable is how the Doctor chooses to save Wilfred's life by sacrificing his own, and then goes to make sure all of his extended "family," Martha and Mickey, Sarah Jane and Luke Smith, Captain Jack, Donna and her family are all alright, and to see Rose one more time, before regenerating for the tenth time. It definitely was a finale that brought tears to my eyes, as we said farewell to the man that has defined the character of the Doctor for this generation as Tom Baker did for his. But now, we can look forward to a new era, as Steven Moffat takes over as head writer and executive producer, and Matt Smith comes on board as the Eleventh Doctor. Based on his brief introduction here, we're in for quite a ride. A wonderful finale to this era of "Doctor Who." Now, on to the next. Allons-y! Grade: A+

Doctor Who: The End of Time: Part One (2009) Season Unknown, Episode Unknown

An Exciting, Fun, and Wacky First Part to David Tennant's Farewell Story (Spoiler-free, hopefully)

[10/10 · 28 December 2009]

After taking the good Doctor into some very dark territory with "The Waters of Mars," Russell T. Davies returns the Doctor back to his roots with "The End of Time, Part One," the first half of David Tennant's final story as the Tenth Doctor. From the very beginning of the episode, Davies intends to create a memorable story to give Tennant a fond farewell. And the story really is brilliant, exciting, wacky, and scary in the tradition of classic "Doctor Who." The cast and crew do a fantastic job of creating this amazing story, preparing us for the second half of the story, which promises to give Tennant an epic, fantastic farewell. While some may find it too outlandish, it does so with great fun and excitement, making it worthwhile. And the cliffhanger is the biggest, most exciting one yet, ending the show on a double-whammy! Longtime fans will surely love it! Allons-y! Grade: A+

The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day (2009)

The Saints Are Back and in Top Form.

[9/10 · 26 November 2009]

I only saw the original "Boondock Saints" the same weekend the sequel came out. It was a terrific low-budget action film, filled with unforgettable characters and perfectly-staged action sequences, and a few surprises thrown in for good measure. It left one to wonder if any sequel to measure up to the original. And it's safe to say that "The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day" comes very close. The cast and crew do a terrific job of creating a fun, exciting and character-driven action film, with the same wit and style that made the original a classic, while introducing new faces that build on the original. Fans of the original film will find very, very little disappointment with the sequel. Recommended! Grade: A-

Doctor Who: The Waters of Mars (2009) Season Unknown, Episode Unknown

"I've gone too far. Is this it? My death? Is it time?"

[10/10 · 18 November 2009]

While "Doctor Who" has always had its share of fun, there have been times that it's taken a darker tone. "The Waters of Mars," the second of four specials that mark the end of David Tennant's time as the Tenth Doctor, is such an episode. It's a thrilling, funny, and downright creepy episode. And dare I say it, but I thought it was the darkest episode of the show's history. But not because of the creatures, which the Flood is a downright terrifying monster for the Doctor to face. And it's not the fact that the Doctor has landed at a fixed point in time where historical events must take place, meaning everybody on Mars' Bowie Base One will die. What makes this the darkest episode of all time is none other than the Doctor himself. After having witnessed so much death and destruction, including the death of his own people, the Time Lords, he takes a turn for the dark, believing that he has a right to change historical events, because he is the last of the Time Lords, and decides to take on time itself. He begins by rescuing the three humans not infected by the martian water, including Adelaide Brooke, the base's commander, and a hero. Through some truly ingenious work, he gets them back to Earth on the same day as their death. But now, the Doctor has taken on a dark and malicious arrogance, and believes that there is nothing he cannot do. But Brooke decides to make sure the time line stays right for her, and commits suicide. When she does this, the Doctor realizes that he has gone too far, and believes that his death is at hand. "The Waters of Mars" is definitely the best special created so far: an exciting, character-driven, dark adventure that takes on a more grim storyline that is more suited for "Torchwood," but works here. If there is a complaint I have, it's this, which is more an observation: This episode, with it's dark ending, is definitely not one for young children. But still, it's a terrific episode, and bodes well for the final two episodes of the David Tennant/Russell T. Davies era of "Doctor Who." Grade: A+

The Sarah Jane Adventures: The Wedding of Sarah Jane Smith: Part Two (2009) Season 3, Episode 6

A Very Good Episode. David Tennant's Swan Song as the Doctor.

[9/10 · 30 October 2009]

While we still have three more special episodes of "Doctor Who" to look forward to before Matt Smith takes over, this two-part adventure, "The Wedding of Sarah Jane Smith," marks David Tennant's final performance in the role. The episode itself is really good, and gives all of the characters more of a dramatic impact, and the guest spot by Tennant is stellar, showing everybody why he has made such an impact with the character. The final moments of the episode, where the Doctor shows the kids the interior of the Tardis, and the final farewell between Sarah Jane and the Doctor, is terrific. "Don't forget me, Sarah Jane" says the Doctor. "Nobody will forget you," replies Sarah Jane. Indeed. Thanks for four great years, David. And while we look forward to Matt Smith's take on the Time Lord, your Doctor will never be forgotten. Grade: A-

The Last Templar (2009)

A Fine Miniseries

[8/10 · 27 January 2009]

"The Last Templar" is a fascinating miniseries about the quest for the treasure of the Knights Templar. Mira Sorvino successfully leads the cast as a archaeologist who tracks the clues to the place where a legendary document that could shake the foundations of Christianity remains. The program does a good job of not becoming too controversial. The acting makes up for the program's occasionally slow pace and clichéd storytelling. The film even features some fine visual effects for a television miniseries, and Omar Sharif makes a memorable cameo appearance in the film's emotionally-charged climax that will leave viewers fascinated. It's definitely worth watching if you enjoy adventure stories. Grade: B

Star Trek Phase II: Blood and Fire: Part One (2008) Season 4, Episode 4

A Dark, Edgy Trek

[9/10 · 17 January 2009]

The latest episode of Star Trek: Phase II, "Blood and Fire: Part 1" is a darker, edgier Trek adventure than has probably ever been produced. Originally written for The Next Generation as an allegory for the AIDS virus, the episode was re-tooled for a TOS-style adventure. The story was shelved by TNG producers for the inclusion of a gay character. Fortunately, for the episode, the gay element is not included as a "shock" element. If it was, it would have been inappropriate. Instead, the love story between Ensign Peter Kirk and Lieutenant Alex Freeman is dealt with as a regular story, making it appropriate for Trek's non-judgmental look at the future. As for the episode itself, it's an exciting, intense and sometimes shocking and terrifying. The cast and crew are at their best, including some of the best visual effects ever produced for an online fan show. Fans of "Star Trek" will find this a fascinating adventure, and the cliffhanger will leave you ready for the next episode, guaranteed! Grade: A-

Cloverfield (2008)

Definitely Lives Up to the Hype.

[10/10 · 18 January 2008]

After months of media hype, the J.J. Abrams-produced "Cloverfield" finally hit theaters, and the movie definitely delivers. "Cloverfield" is, without a doubt, the best monster flick yet made! I won't go into details about the plot, but it is very intense, exciting, and quite scary at times, with good performances from a terrific cast. The use of a P.O.V. style of film-making makes this film all the more believable. I won't go into detail about the main monster, except to say that it is fantastic! The only spoiler I have is this: along with the main monster, there are also hundreds of little creatures, and they are terrifying to behold as well! This film definitely puts "Godzilla" to shame. This is a terrific film that fans of sci-fi, horror, and monster films will want to see! One of the best ever made! Grade: A+

Doctor Who: The Family of Blood (2007) Season 3, Episode 9

The Best Episode Yet

[10/10 · 6 January 2008]

The two-part episode "Human Nature/The Family of Blood" is, without a doubt, the best one created for the new Doctor Who series. This episode takes Who somewhere new, offering a fresh look at the Doctor. The cast and crew do a terrific job with this, creating an exciting and emotionally-powerful episode. Kudos should especially go to David Tennant, who gives his best performance to date not only as the Doctor, but as his human counterpart, John Smith. His performance in this piece is very powerful, and will bring almost everyone who sees it to tears. A terrific two-parter that stands not only as the best of the new series, but also among the greatest "Doctor Who" adventures ever! Grade: A+

Battlestar Galactica: Exodus: Part 2 (2006) Season 3, Episode 4

Best Episode of the Series to Date

[10/10 · 23 November 2007]

"Exodus: Part Two" is the best episode of the new "Galactica" series to date! The entire cast take their characters to new areas, making this a richly-performed experience. Michael Hogan gives his best performance to date as Colonel Tigh, bringing a humanity to the character that has not been seen until now. The rest of the cast does a fantastic job as well. The story is very powerful, as well as very exciting. This episode also features several twists and turns that will leave everyone on the edge of their seats until the climax. As a fan of the show, this episode showed that there is still life in this epic, powerful show. Great entertainment, and highly recommended! Grade: A+

Lost Colony: The Legend of Roanoke (2007 TV Movie)

One of the Sci-Fi Channel's Better Films.

[8/10 · 15 October 2007]

"Wraiths of Roanoke" is a horror film based on the true story of the Lost Colony, where the first 117 settlers mysteriously disappeared on Roanoke Island, North Carolina in 1587. In this film, the audience is presented with the possibility that evil wraiths left on the island from the Vikings was responsible for the colonies disappearance. Surprisingly, this is a pretty good film in the long line of Sci-Fi Channel Films. The cast and crew do a fine job of creating a terrifying, exciting film. Adrian Paul of "Highlander" fame is terrific as Ananias Dare, the leader of the colony. We see as he struggles to find an answer to the mystery, and falls apart when he begins to feel that he has failed the colonists. The supporting cast does a terrific job as well, including Frida Show, who plays Eleanor Dare, Ananias' daughter. The plot and story are in good form, and the visual effects are nearly flawless, save for a couple of scenes. Overall, this is a fine fantasy/horror film based on a true story. Fans of of these kinds of films will surely enjoy this film. Grade: B+

Amazing Grace (2006)

"Amazing Grace" Indeed!

[10/10 · 23 February 2007]

"Amazing Grace" tells the remarkable story of William Wilberforce, a member of the British Parliament, who spend twenty years of his life on a quest to bring an end to the slave trade in Britain. The cast and crew have done a fantastic job of bringing this story to the screen. Ioan Gruffudd is fantastic as Wilberforce! He is complemented by an amazing supporting cast, including Albert Finney, who turns in a small but powerful performance as John Newton, the slave-ship captain turned preacher, and writer of "Amazing Grace." The plot and story are handled with great reverence. I was moved to tears several times during the course of the film! "Amazing Grace" is a fantastic film that will inspire all who see it! Grade: A

United 93 (2006)

A Powerful Motion Picture

[9/10 · 30 April 2006]

After seeing the exceptional TV Movie "Flight 93," I didn't think that any film, even a theatrical feature, could match the power and emotion of that film. But Paul Greengrass has proved me wrong with his powerful new film, "United 93," the first theatrical film to be made about the events of September 11, 2001. The cast and crew do a fine job of bringing this heroic true story to life. The use of hand-held "shake" cameras give it a very documentary-like feel to it. There is also no dramatic embellishment as well; all we see is the passengers and crew as they attempt to re-take their flight from the hijackers who are hell-bent on killing hundreds. We are also there as air traffic controllers and military personnel attempt to find out what is going on, and to get a hold on the situation. Greengrass has crafted a masterpiece that not only serves as a great companion piece with the TV movie "Flight 93," but also serves as a reminder of the heroism that saved our nation's capitol. Grade: A

Flight 93 (2006 TV Movie)

An Emotionally Powerful Recreation of a Shining Moment in a Dark Day of American History

[9/10 · 31 January 2006]

"Flight 93" is an outstanding dramatization of the passengers and crew of Flight 93, whose bold attempt to retake their hijacked flight on the grim morning of September 11th touched the whole of America. Stellar performances and a stirring original score heighten this film's recreation of a pivotal moment in American history. Even with another film about Flight 93 coming to theaters in April, it will be hard-pressed to be a film as moving as this one. It reminds all who view it of that terrible day, and those who were innocent victims who did nothing but get up and go to about their daily routines on that Tuesday morning. I'm really glad I saw it, and hope that it becomes a reminder of the price men and women pay for our freedom, both military and civilian. Grade: A

Into the West (2005)

A Great Mini-Series!

[10/10 · 22 July 2005]

In the spirit of "North and South" comes "Into the West," an emotionally-charged mini-series that chronicles the migration west, and the effects of manifest destiny on the Indian tribes that saw their lands taken from them by the white man. From the 1820s to 1891, we follow two families: the Wheeler family, who take part in the great migration west; and the family of Loved by the Buffalo, members of the Lakota Sioux Tribe. An amazing cast, brilliant writing, and thrilling cinematography take us back to that time when two great nations clashed, and whose fate would shape the destiny of America for all eternity! Grade: A+

The War of the Worlds (2005 Video)

"Then came the night of the first falling star..."

[9/10 · 10 July 2005]

"H.G. Wells' The War of the Worlds" is by far the best and most authentic adaptation of the classic sci-fi/horror novel. Director Timothy Hines has created a fantastic film that also pays homage to two different eras of film-making. With the color schemes and use of cinematography, as well as some over-the-top acting, the film has the look and feel of a silent movie. Also, the visual effects are reminiscent of the 1950's sci-fi films (An homage to George Pal's "War of the Worlds" from 1953). There are a few problems with the film. The editing is distracting at times, and continuity is also a mess at times. Plus, there are a few minor historical inaccuracies in terms of uniforms and the geography of London. Other than these problems, the film is great. The cast especially does a fine job, including Anthony Piana, who plays two different characters in the film (The Writer and his brother), and both performances are fantastic! This is the definitive version of H.G. Wells' sci-fi masterpiece "The War of the Worlds," and deserves a place in anyone's collection of classic sci-fi films. Grade: A-