Comic-Con 2013: Feature Film Highlights

[Note: I've been sick all week, so this is later than scheduled.  TV pilots segment is coming up]

Preview night: http://sdmoviemaven.blogspot.com/2013/07/comic-con-in-night.html

July means one thing in San Diego... Comic-Con!  As always, the biggest party of the year brings in tons of geek energy and star power.  Last year's highlights include appearance by Robert Downey Jr. and Henry Cavill, among many others, helming the panels of the two most anticipated movies of 2013, "Iron Man 3" and "Man of Steel."  Superheroes, warriors and vampires dominate again this year, with astronauts tagging along. 

As with anyone who has attended Comic-Con knows, there are too many concurrent panels, too long lines, and too little time, so you're forced to be selective and choose which panels you could have the best chance to get into without camping out or wasting all day.  Having attended most major feature film panels for many years (for coverage from previous years, click here), I've noticed the lines have grown out of control over the years due to the extreme popularity.  The only solution is to expand the space of the convention center to accommodate the swelling interest and size of the crowd. 

This year I did something different by attending a mix of smaller art-related panels, a number of pilot and established TV shows, and several feature films, including a press conference. 

***

Here are some of the highlights of several feature films: (check back later for TV pilots)

Europa Report (August 2, 2013)

In attendance: director Sebastian Cordero, composer Bear McCreary, producer Ben Browning, actress Karolina Wydra, scientists Steve Vance and Kevin Hand; moderated by astronomer Dr. Phil Plait

"Europa Report" puts more emphasis on science in 'science fiction.'  It's a faux documentary ("found footage" style) of a space exploration to investigate whether there are elements of life in Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, with its vast liquid water and ocean.  The imageries that are not only clear and striking, but also realistically shot (based on actual images from NASA), evoking a sense of awe, discovery and danger.  The filmmakers really go for realism, at the same time, understands that science has to find a balance with a story and characters that are compelling.  The space suit weighs 50 lbs. with a camera attached in the helmet, so the audience would see images directly from the astronaut's eyes.  As far as music goes, they try to strike that balance between cold and mechanical, and orchestra-like music typical for movies, and aiming for a melody that is beautiful and evocative, and hopefully connect with the audience.  The film has been compared to "Moon" and "2001: A Space Odyssey." 

"Ender's Game" (November 1, 2013)

In attendance: writer/director Gavin Hood, producer Roberto Orci, stars Harrison Ford, Asa Butterfield, Hailee Steinfield

The trailer showed an impressive space war with a boy soldier (Ender) in command.  The movie is based on a novel by Orson Scott, a story about gifted children learning the arts of war in an advanced military school in preparation for battle with the aliens to save the human race. 

According to Hood, the movie isn't just about good vs. evil with simple characters; it has a complex moral story.  While the trailer doesn't show anything more than actions, the story is supposedly about leadership, compassion, empathy, tolerance, self-identity, and how you define your moral position in the world. 

Hailee mentioned that she had to train boot camp to prepare for the physically demanding role, including learning to march and salute.  Ford's role in the movie is mentor-manipulator.  An iconic figure, Ford made his second appearance in Hall H (first was 2010 for "Cowboys & Aliens") and was the highlight of the panel.  Fans were clamoring and lining up to ask him questions, including goofy questions about Han Solo and Indiana Jones. 

"Divergent" (March 21, 2014)

In attendance: author Veronica Roth, director Neil Burger, main stars Shailene Woodley and Theo James, joined by supporting stars,  Mekhi Phifer, Maggie Q, Miles Teller, Ansel Elgort, Zoe Kravitz, Ben Lloyd-Hughes, Christian Madsen, Amy Newbold, Ben Lamb

The ensemble cast came to Comic-Con fresh from finishing shooting just two days ago.  Woodley sounded endearingly nervous and commented about how huge the crowd in Hall H was.  The moderator made a good-natured joke about the accent of the good-looking James, who was the target of affection from female fans. 

Based on the best-selling young adult fiction by Veronica Roth, "Divergent," is an intriguing story about a fragmented society in a distant future, where it's divided into five factions; bravery, selflessness, intelligence, kindness, honesty.  Each person belongs to and must conform to the virtue of his or her faction. 

One member of the selflessness faction (Woodley) is dissatisfied with her faction and wishes to move to another faction.  Mentored by a member of the other faction (James), she has to undergo rigorous training and prove herself.  The footage shown is action-packed, involving leaping off train and buildings, martial arts training, crowd surfing and knife-throwing.  One particular standout scene is the knife-throwing scene with Woodley's character standing still, and having her ear nicked by the last throw.  Done right, "Divergent" could be the next "The HungerGames."  

When asked about bravery, Woodley emphasized that her character was not a superhero;  she's a normal person put in an extraordinary position, who would rise to the occasion. James responded that it's how you deal with what's asked of you and in the face of fear, and that's what would define you.  It's about not being afraid to demonstrate what you're afraid of and deal with things that are scary. 

"Captain America: The Winter Soldier" (April 4, 2014)

In attendance at the Marvel press conference: directors Anthony Russo and John Russo, stars Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Samuel L. Jackson, Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie, Emily VanCamp, Frank Grillo, Cobie Smulders

The next installment of "Captain America" would be modern and edgy.  Johansson talked about working more intimately and close on the ground than in "The Avengers."  Evans discussed about working closely with Johansson as Black Widow. Something happens in the relationship and they would need to rely on each other.  Van Camp's character, 'Kate,' has been rumored to be Cap's love interest, but Van Camp wasn't allowed to divulge what role she's playing and how she's introduced in the movie.  Stan mentioned about the similarity of his character, Winter Soldier, with Cap, as a lost man in a new world, discovering his role and identity. 

Evans also discussed about Cap's conflicts in the modern world.  It's a more challenging world than the 1940s in a sense that it's not as black and white anymore; it's gray.  Back in the day, Nazi's were the bad guys.  Now we're dealing with a blurred line between civil liberty and security.  Cap, viewed as a boy scout and lacking in humor, can't rely on being fish-out-water situation anymore to be entertaining.  He's been briefed about the world and he has a cell phone. 

"Guardians of the Galaxy" (August 1, 2014)

In attendance at the Marvel press conference: director James Gunn, stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Lee Pace, Michael Rooker, Benicio del Toro, Karen Gillan

Gunn clarified the basic premise of the movie.  It's family coming together, individuals who have acted selfishly throughout their lives learning things about themselves and act as heroes.  The movie's tone will be lighter and more family-friendly.  It's revealed that villain Thanos, seen in post-credit "The Avengers" will connect this movie to the larger Marvel Universe. 

Pratt mentioned about how great Marvel movies were and it's because of the great stories, singling out how Iron Man became so well-known to people outside comic fans.  He thought it's the same thing with this movie, which has a cool story.  He joked about his physical training and transformation to be fit for the movie.  Zaldana was excited to do something different, sort of an anti-hero movie.  The characters - rebels, thieves, assassins - are learning their lessons, and with Gunn's interpretation, there will be a lot of levity. 

***

Another lively panel I attended was Q&A with directors Marc Webb ("The Amazing Spider-Man"), Alfonso Cuaron ("Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" and upcoming "Gravity") and Edgar Wright (upcoming "Ant-Man").

Other scoops coming out of Comic-Con include:

• "Age of Ultron" is the title of "The Avengers 2" (2015).  The movie is said to be darker and more global in scope.  Ultron is a super-intelligent robot with a conquest to rule earth.
• Superman will face off  Batman in "Man of Steel 2" (2015).  There have been debates about whether this is a desperate move from DC to catch up with Marvel by having the two biggest superheroes in the world dueling out in one movie.
• "Flash" is slated for 2016 and "Justice League" (DC's all-star superheroes ensemble) 2017.

***

While it might be cool to attend a Marvel press conference, it's certainly different from marveling in a fan-centric event.  Some members of the press may be fans themselves and humorous exchanges take place occasionally, but a press event is mostly devoid of excitement.  The interactions are lot more measured, subdued.  None of the thunderous cheers, wild surprises or overall mass hysteria.  Passionate fans, devoted and star-struck, make up most of the fun and create an electrifying experience.  There is simply no comparison. 

In addition to star-studded panels, frenzied exhibits halls, costumed characters and outer exhibits in downtown San Diego entertained fans and visitors alike.  If you've never attended or don't intend to attend Comic-Con next year, walk around downtown and soak in the ambiance.  It's perfect for people-watch, take silly pictures, party or just hang out.  And that's a wrap!

http://www.sdentertainer.com/arts/comic-con-2013-feature-film-highlights/

[left click to enlarge pictures]

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Upcoming Movies: September 2013

[Originally posted on 9/01/13]


September 6
"Riddick" (http://www.riddickmovie.com/) - Left for dead on a sun-scorched planet, a man finds himself up against an alien race of predators. Activating an emergency beacon alerts two ships: one carrying a new breed of mercenary, the other captained by someone from Riddick's past.

September 13
"Insidious: Chapter 2" - A haunted family seeks to uncover the mysterious childhood secret that has left them dangerously connected to the spirit world.

"The Family" - One family, a notorious mafia clan, is relocated to Normandy, France under the witness protection program, where fitting in soon becomes challenging as their old habits die hard.

September 20
"Prisoners" (http://prisonersmovie.warnerbros.com/) - When his daughter and her friend go missing, one man takes matters into his own hands as the police pursue multiple leads and the pressure mounts. But just how far will this desperate father go to protect his family?

September 27
"Rush" (http://www.rushmovie.com/) - A big-screen re-creation of the merciless 1970s rivalry between Formula One rivals James Hunt and Niki Lauda.

"Baggage Claim" - Pledging to keep herself from being the oldest and the only woman in her entire family never to wed, a woman embarks on a thirty-day, thirty-thousand-mile expedition to charm a potential suitor into becoming her fiancé.

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"Red 2"

I LOVED the first "Red," (Retired-Extremely Dangerous) an over-the-top and comically combustible ride, and looked forward to the sequel.  But too much "Red" may not necessarily be a good thing. 

"Red 2" continues to follow the spy-adventures of retired CIA operative, Frank (Bruce Willis, "A Good Day to Die Hard"), bug-eyed girlfriend Sarah (Mary-Louis Parker), old buddy Marvin (John Malkovich), and MI6 cohort Victoria, Helen Mirren ("The Debt"). 

This time the gang goes international - Paris, London, Moscow.  They're tracking down a bomb smuggled and planted in Moscow during the Cold War.  In a document leak, Frank's and Marvin's names have been falsely linked to it.  They're branded as domestic terrorists and pursued by intelligence agencies, including a contract killer, Han (Byung-hun Lee). 

They encounter Frank's former flame, Katja (Catherine Zeta-Jones, "Side Effects"), an agent with Russian intelligence.  They eventually find the architect of the device, Dr. Bailey, Anthony Hopkins ("Thor").  Bailey has been locked up for over 30 years; there's a reason for it and it may not be what you think it is. 

The movie is an action comedy, it's packed with action, but with an emphasis on comedy.  As basket-case Marvin, Malkovich supplies a lot of one-liners.  Willis still has that cool guy persona, who can cleverly defeats a dozen of armed men with ease.  Parker has a much more prominent role in this installment and becomes an integral part of the team.  Han rounds up the group and is a good addition as an outcast.  Brian Cox makes a cameo as a KGB agent and Mirren's partner in love.  The most sophisticated of the bunch belongs to Mirren.  Her chic, ice-cold portrayal is hard to beat.  She doesn't miss a beat; be it disposing a body in a bath tub, dishing out a relationship advice, or firing double guns in a fast-spinning car. 

There are a couple of cool car stunts.  One in full speed with Mirren as a passenger and Lee in the driver's seat involving a trailer truck.  The other with Willis stepping right into the car driving as Zeta-Jones moving out and into the passenger's seat; a homage to the first movie where Willis steps out of a spinning car and onto his feet shooting bullets.  

While the first installment is fresh and fluid, "Red 2" feels segmented and bloated.  There are also nonsensical resolutions where you're expected to buy things without knowing how they come about.  Too much spotlight is shined on Frank's and Sarah's comedic relationship, and one upmanship with Katja.  It becomes too silly for its own good.  The cast members have terrific chemistry, but you may not get the nuances among the relationships unless you see the first one.

If you've never seen the original "Red," you will still enjoy "Red 2" because of the action, comedy and chemistry.  It could have been much better, but it's passable entertainment.

http://www.sdentertainer.com/arts/movie-review-red-2/

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/mxzqw33

DVD (blu-ray): http://tinyurl.com/lb3e2f6

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"Man of Steel"

What if Superman really does exist?

As much as I was looking forward to the most anticipated movie event of the year, “Man of Steel,” I was nervous with all the hype and especially with Zack Snyder (“300,” “Watchmen”), who is known for visual overload, at the director's chair. But when I caught a footage shown at the 2012 Comic-Con, I thought this retooling of Superman had a chance to be awe-inspiring. Christopher Nolan, director of the groundbreaking Batman trilogy, acting as producer, might have a hand in grounding “Man of Steel” in reality. "Man of Steel" revolves around the issue of what would happen if Superman really did exist in real life, in our time.

Unlike Batman, Superman has never been a dark character, but he's hard to capture because of his perfect nature. Superman is an ideal that people strive towards. The team of Synder, Nolan and David S. Goyer (writer) turn out to be a winning combination. The origin story doesn't depart from the fundamentals, but it realistically tells a story that makes sense. It manages to tell a story about how this godlike being is not perfect, rather, conflicted and alienated, struggling to trust, adjust and find his place in the world. The film balances the lighter nature of Superman with a darker reality of being an alien superhero in the gritty 21st century. “Man of Steel” revolutionizes Superman like “Batman Begins” with Batman. And the result is utterly phenomenal.

“Man of Steel” first introduces us to Krypton; a whole other world alien to us, like Asgard in “Thor.” Baby Kal-El (future Clark Kent and Superman) is the son of Jor-El (Russell Crowe, "The Next Three Days") and Lara Lor-Van (Ayelet Zurer); the first natural birth in Krypton in centuries. Kryptonians are artificially engineered, bred for a special purpose in the multi-layered robe and cape-wearing society, such as warrior, worker or leader. General Zod (Michael Shannon , "Premium Rush") and his crew are exiled after staging a coup against the ruling council and facing off with Chief Scientist Jor-El. Because they're banished from the doomed planet, ironically, they're the ones who survive since the planet bursts into flames. Jor-El and Lara launch baby Kal-El to earth, bringing along Codex with him, the DNA code of Kryptonians.

On Earth the scene opens with an adult Clark Kent (Henry Cavill, "Immortals"), a scruffy drifter and loner, hitchhiking and working odd-end jobs. While he's anonymously doing some life-saving work during an oil rig explosion, we see flashbacks to his troubled childhood and adolescence. The special relationships between Clark and his parents, Jonathan (Kevin Costner, "The Company Men") and Martha Kent (Diane Lane, "Under the Tuscan Sun") are poignantly shown in a number of touching moments. An event that results in a painful personal loss could spark a debate of what Clark should have done.

Alone and bullied, the lonely kid grows up being different, isolated of having to keep his superpowers a secret. The scenes are truly heartfelt that it's believable to see how unsettling it is to be so powerful yet powerless. Being confused and trying to control the overwhelming powers, having to hide your identity while saving lives and pretending to be a normal kid. Fear of the unknown is a powerful thing and if the world is not ready, getting discovered could mean that Clark would be trapped and experimented on.

Clark has to decide what kind of man he wants to become, and never doubt that eventually the time will come where he will have to decide what kind of world he chooses to live in. He will have to make a choice, and sacrifice, if he intends to become greater than society intends him to be. There's a reason that he's put on Earth and it is his destiny to change the world.

In the Artic Clark runs into Lois Lane (Amy Adams, "Leap Year") for the first time. She's there to investigate a spacecraft buried in ice. In the spacecraft, Clark encounters the ghost of his biological father and comes to terms with his identity and destiny. His journey as Superman begins. His first flight (and stumble) traipsing the varied landscapes of earth and soaring into space is divinely exhilarating. As far as Lois goes, she's more than a love interest, or even a Pulitzer-winning reporter; she's proactive and very involved in the world's affairs, an active participant and a confidant right from the start. She's someone that the privately guarded Clark and Superman, in all his extraordinary strength and vulnerability, could simply be himself. She is actually someone that Superman couldn't help but fall for.

When General Zod finds that Kal-El has been living his whole life on Earth, he and his army, led by ruthless Faora-Ul (Antje Traue), comes calling and demands that earthlings surrender him. What's unique about Zod here is that he doesn't have a villain's typical motivation to conquer Earth. His motivation is refreshingly understandable and there's a strange sense of honor in his brutally deplorable actions. The newly minted Superman must take a leap of faith and lead the way. As a symbol of hope, he must decide whether to trust and protect the skeptical humans, or join his own people and ensure the survival of his race. Spectacular destructions and explosions ensue; fiery, all-out war on an unprecedented scale, surpassing even “The Avengers.” While they could seem repetitive for some, the extent of decimation is plausible when alien superpowers collide. Interestingly, the end of Zod ends on a personally agonizing note, but it fits the theme of this film.

Casting is absolutely impeccable. Cavill's path to don the supercape has been paved with trials. He was the guy who lost out. He first auditioned for the Superman role with one director over a decade ago. He was so close to being Edward Cullen in "Twilight" and lost out to Robert Pattinson. So close to being James Bond and lost out to Daniel Craig. And finally, so close to being Superman himself and lost out to Brandon Routh when the project switched director. As it turns out, he's destined to be Superman. The guy who lost out is the right guy after all, a winner by all accounts with his human portrayal as Clark Kent, and the last son of Krypton and savior of mankind. A real Man of Steel, Cavill carries the weight of the iconic superhero's future franchise and potential for the all-star ensemble “Justice League.” In some ways, Christopher Reeve will forever be Superman, but Cavill is the Superman for this generation.  He is exactly how I'd imagine what Superman would be, even without the suit.

 “Man of Steel” is grandeur and epic, but it's also deep and personal. The vast scope, intense and extensive battles, modernized suit, extravagant visual effects and thunderous score are amazing, but it's the powerfully realistic story that makes this Superman relatable and thus an enduring superhero. The closing scene is perfect and shows great promise of what's to come.

"Superman Returns" was immensely lovely, but Superman returns at last with "Man of Steel." This is The Superman movie we've all been waiting for. 

http://www.sdentertainer.com/arts/movie-review-man-of-steel/

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/kejbngp

DVD (blu-ray): http://tinyurl.com/kaygxd4

Comic-Con 2012

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Comic-Con 2013 Preview Night

[Originally posted on 7/19/13]

Comic-Con in the night.... a quick note and select pictures from downtown San Diego.  Attended a promising preview night, showcasing a few TV pilots for the fall 2013 season. 

Since I had a previous engagement, unfortunately, I missed the first showing, which could possibly be one of the more intriguing ones, a story about genetically evolved humans blessed with special powers, "The Tomorrow People" (although doesn't this remind you of "Heroes?").  The other two are high-concept and pretty interesting as well; a futuristic cop drama where humans and androids working together to solve crimes ("Almost Human"), and social experimentation/survival in post-apocalypse earth and space station drama "The 100").  Today I caught a superb pilot, with elements of time travel, supernatural, mystery, fantasy and adventure ("Sleepy Hollow").  It works surprisingly well.  

Will be back with more!

For previous stories and pictures, check out: http://sdmoviemaven.blogspot.com/p/comiccon-wondercon.html

[left click to enlarge pictures]

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"Despicable Me 2"

[Originally posted on 7/04/13]

Gru, a reformed villain and infamous with moon-stealing reputation, is now a father settling down with three adorable adopted daughters.  The minions help him with his legitimate business making jams and jellies. 

When a major crime takes place, Gru gets called into joining Anti-Villain League and makes close acquaintance with a taser-happy agent, Lucy.  They track down an enemy who steals a serum that can convert tame animals into hungry monsters. Lucy becomes an integral part of the Gru's family by the end of the movie that it seems like another misadventures-filled sequel is in order.   

The stars of the movie are definitely the minions!  And they're making plenty of appearances and getting plenty of actions.  Loads of slapstick humor and giddy antics, these precious minions are crazy hilarious.  Dressed up in all kinds of garbs and gears, they're mimicking humans. 

I was in Los Angeles last week and saw buses with promo ads, "Honk if you *heart* minions."  I couldn't agree more. :-) 

http://www.sdentertainer.com/arts/movie-reviews-despicable-me-2-and-white-house-down/

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/kxvxmx7
DVD (blu-ray): http://tinyurl.com/mrf9c5m

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Upcoming Movies: August 2013

[Originally posted on 7/29/13]

August 2
"2 Guns" (http://www.2guns.net/) - A DEA agent and a naval intelligence officer find themselves on the run after a botched attempt to infiltrate a drug cartel. While fleeing, they learn the secret of their shaky alliance: neither knew that the other was an undercover agent.

"The Europa Report" (http://sdmoviemaven.blogspot.com/2013/07/comic-con-2013-recap.html) - An international crew of astronauts undertakes a privately funded mission to search for life on one of Jupiter's moons, Europa.

August 9
"Elysium" (http://www.itsbetterupthere.com/site/) - Set in the year 2154, the very wealthy live on a man-made space station while the rest of the population resides on a ruined Earth.  A man takes on a mission that could bring equality to the polarized worlds.

"Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters" (http://www.percyjacksonthemovie.com/us/) - In order to restore their dying safe haven, the son of Poseidon and his friends embark on a quest to the Sea of Monsters to find the mythical Golden Fleece while trying to stop an ancient evil from rising.

August 16
"Paranoia" - An entry-level employee at a powerful corporation finds himself occupying a corner office, but at a dangerous price: he must spy on his boss's old mentor to secure for him a multi-billion dollar advantage.

"Lee Daniel's The Butler" - A look at the life of Cecil Gaines who served eight presidents as the White House's head butler from 1952 to 1986, and had a unique front-row seat as political and racial history was made.

August 23 
"The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones" (http://www.themortalinstrumentsmovie.com/) - When her mom is attacked and taken from their home in New York City by a demon, a seemingly ordinary teenage girl finds out truths about her past and bloodline on her quest to get her back, that changes her entire life.

"The World's End" (http://m.focusfeatures.com/the_worlds_end) - Five friends who reunite in an attempt to top their epic pub crawl from 20 years earlier unwittingly become humankind's only hope for survival.

August 30
"Getaway" (http://www.getawaymovie.com/) - One man must get behind the wheel and follow the orders of a mysterious man to save his kidnapped wife.

"Close Circuit" - Both lawyers - and ex-lovers - find themselves at risk after they join the defense team for an international terrorist's trial.

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"White House Down"

[Originally posted on 6/29/13]

If you enjoy Roland Emmerich movies ("Independence Day," "Day After Tomorrow, "2012"), you'll enjoy "White House Down." 

Yes, we've seen this movie before.  "Die Hard" meets "Independence Day," and most recently came in the form of "Olympus Has Fallen."  Having seen both, "White House Down" wins hands down. 

"Olympus Has Fallen" is a one-man show with one supermacho agent, taking down an army of men, with tons of violent actions in the dark.  In "White House Down" it's refreshing to see some uncertainties; the hero (Channing Tatum) really can't save the President (Jamie Foxx), the country or the world without a network of insiders, including an active role by the hero's young daughter.  And even then, the outcome is still less certain.  The story may seem straightforward, but it covers more ground, and the bad guys are not all what they seem and each has his own motivations, which makes the movie more interesting. 

Emmerich's movies are not Oscar materials and they don't pretend to be.  Packed with explosive actions and entertaining buddy rapport, "White House Down" is a popcorn actioner with a dash of patriotism. 

http://www.sdentertainer.com/arts/movie-reviews-despicable-me-2-and-white-house-down/

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/mfy55s4

DVD (blu-ray): http://tinyurl.com/l6vc36y

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Upcoming Movies: July 2013

[Originally posted on 7/01/13]


July 3
"The Lone Ranger" (http://disney.go.com/the-lone-ranger/) - Native American warrior Tonto recounts the untold tales that transformed John Reid, a man of the law, into a legend of justice.

"Despicable Me 2" (http://despicableme.com/) - Gru is recruited by the Anti-Villain League to help deal with a powerful new super criminal.

July 12
"Pacific Rim" (http://www.pacificrimmovie.com/) - When an alien attack threatens the Earth's existence, giant robots piloted by humans are deployed to fight off the menace.

July 19
"Red 2" - Retired black-ops CIA agent Frank Moses reunites his unlikely team of elite operatives for a global quest to track down a missing portable nuclear device.

"R.I.P.D." (http://www.ripd.com/) - A recently slain cop joins a team of undead police officers working for the Rest in Peace Department and tries to find the man who murdered him.

July 26 
"The Wolverine" (http://www.thewolverinemovie.com/) - Wolverine makes a voyage to modern-day Japan, where he encounters an enemy from his past that will impact on his future.

"Blue Jasmine" - A life crisis causes a woman to head to San Francisco, where she reconnects with her sister.

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"World War Z"

[Originally posted on 6/20/13]

From June 18 press screening:  I've never been a fan of zombies, but thought I'd go see this for the big-budget blockbuster factor. 

Adapted from Max Brooks' novel, the movie opens almost instantly with chaos, attack from the zombies.  The first infection and transformation from human to zombie looks pretty cool, but loses its novelty fast.  The zombies are full-on CGI, fast-running and swarming like ants.  They actually look pretty funny (watch for the teeth! :-)), although I'm not sure if they're intended to be.  One of the funniest scenes is the hide-and-seek scene at the WHO facility where the main characters are trying to get to some vials in a secured laboratory room in a desperate attempt to find a potential cure for the pandemic. 

The emotional element is minimal, and it's not with the hero's (Gerry Lane, Brad Pitt) family; it's the connection the former United Nations worker forms with a wounded Israeli soldier.  They do a good job in ratcheting the urgency and horror, in close quarters and globally.  But it's clear that while the stakes are high, nowhere do we feel that Gerry is harmed.  It's a don't-worry-Brad-is-gonna-save-the-world kind of deal, a very Hollywood American hero. 

Bottom line, it's pretty entertaining as a summer flick, but it's hard to take seriously, and if you're a true zombie fan, you may be disappointed.

http://www.sdentertainer.com/arts/movie-reviews-world-war-z-and-now-you-see-me/

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/mt6ysxa

DVD (blu-ray): http://tinyurl.com/ksm2y4j

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"Now You See Me"

"The closer you think you are, the less you'll actually see."

Without spoiling anything, it's a very personal story about one of the main characters, using high-tech heist and magic as distraction and illusion. 

Take your pick: the Four Horsemen - card-reader (Jesse Eisenberg, "The Social Network"), mentalist (Woody Harrelson), escape artist (Isla Fisher, "The Great Gatsby") and lock-picker (Dave Franco) - and their financier (Michael Caine, "The Dark Knight Rises"), magician debunker (Morgan Freeman, "Red"), FBI detective (Mark Ruffalo, "The Avengers") and Interpol agent (Melanie Laurent) on their tail.  The Four Horsemen perform robbery stunts ala Robin Hood, showering their audience with money.

The pace is super fast and not much is known about the characters, but things do come together in the end.  Some of the tricks are elaborate but explainable, some require a lot more than suspension of disbelief, but it's all in good fun. 

"Now You See Me" is an entertaining trick for the eyes, definitely stands out among standard summer blockbuster fare. 

http://www.sdentertainer.com/arts/movie-reviews-world-war-z-and-now-you-see-me/

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/mykzej2

DVD (blu-ray): http://tinyurl.com/nyh3v4h

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"Iron Man 3"

"Big man in a suit of armor. Take that away and what are you?" (Captain America to Tony Stark in "TheAvengers")

Directed by Shane Black (taking over from Jon Favreau), "Iron Man 3" picks up after the events of "The Avengers" and readily answers the question.  It turns out, even without the suit, he's everything.  Here Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) is shown as a character more than his alter-ego, Iron Man.  The existence of alternate dimension and alien invasion in New York City has triggered nightmares and panic attacks and shows Tony's vulnerability as human, "a man in a can."  He's not some God, supersoldier or hulking giant.  He buries himself in his work, experimenting with a prototype suit that could fly off and attach itself to Tony's body on command, and working on other inventions as well.  This has affected his relationship with Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow, "Iron Man," "Iron Man 2").  At the same time, Black manages to keep things on the lighter side, as an "Iron Man" movie should be. 

When a terrorist bedecked in an elaborate getup, the Mandarin (Ben Kingsley), recruits followers around the world and terrorizes the country, Tony issues a challenge to come and get him.  What follows is a massive destruction of his hillside mansion.  The helicopter strike is one of the few awesome action set pieces in the movie. 

The story then rewinds to 1999, where Tony spent New Year's Eve with his squeeze, scientist Maya Hansen (Rebecca Hall, "The Town"), and stood up an appointment with another scientist, Aldrich Killian (Guy Pearce, "The King's Speech").  In present day, Killian has now developed the ability to recode the human brain's DNA and created superhumans with ability to self-heal and melt metals, although not without hiccup, such as overheating and combustion.

Tony soon has his hands full.  With his home in rubbles, out of his powered suit and stranded in middle America, hunted down by Killian's agents, head bodyguard Happy Hogan in a coma (cameo by Jon Favreau), best friend Colonel Rhodes (Don Cheadle, "Iron Man 2") held hostage, and both the President of the United States (William Sadler) and beloved Pepper in danger,  he enlists an unlikely ally, a smart boy (Ty Simpkins), and he must rely on his intellect, ingenuity, wit and resourcefulness to improvise and survive, track down the enemy, save the country and the one he loves most.  A couple of action sequences, midair human chain-rescues of Air Force One passengers and grand face-off with an army of armored suits, are bold spectacles.  A surprising link between the Mandarin and Killian, and Peppper's role that seals the nemesis' fate are twists no one sees coming. 

The story is more convoluted than the previous installments and it runs a bit slow in the middle, but it remains entertaining.  While the overall tone is less vivacious, the comedic moments are still laugh-out-loud funny.  The movie works for the most part thanks to Robert Downey, Jr.  Whilst this may or may not be the last standalone "Iron Man" movie for Downey, it's a very good thing that we have "The Avengers 2" to look forward to. 

Downey truly makes the movie the worldwide success that it has become and launched Marvel to the next level with "The Avengers."  It's hands down the most impeccable casting in superheroes' history.  Downey IS Tony Stark.  Especially after seeing him in person more than once command the attention of over 6,000 people at Comic-Con, it's impossible to imagine another actor with the sheer presence, personality, style, talent and charisma fit for the larger-than-life character.  This movie is proof that, without Downey's Tony, Iron Man is simply a metal suit or a machine, which can be  remotely controlled, assembled, disassembled or destroyed.  The one thing irreplaceable is him.  The real Iron Man.  Maybe not a superhero, but certainly a hero. 

"Iron Man 3" is a full blast of fun and action, a perfect lead to the 2013 summer blockbuster season. 

http://www.sdentertainer.com/arts/reviews-arts/movie-review-iron-man-3/

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/czscyox

Comic-Con 2012

   

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"The Great Gatsby"

[Originally posted on 6/01/13]

[Note: I had been traveling overseas and missed a few movies in the last couple of weeks. Hope to catch up soon!]

An aspiring writer (Nick Carraway, Tobey Maguire) finds himself living in a cottage next to a mysterious neighbor, a millionaire (Gatsby, Leonardo DiCaprio) famous for his lavish parties. The parties turn out to be a bait to hopefully lure his now-married cousin (Daisy, Carey Mulligan), whose shares a past with Gatsby.

Hyped up to be this dramatic story of love, betrayal and tragedy among the excess of 1920s New York, "The Great Gatsby" is surprisingly not-so-great. The expansive waterfront estates, sequined dresses and tuxes, endless champagne, party streamers, confetti and fireworks don't make up for the lack of depth in the characters. And Gatsby's object of affection really has no redeeming quality; one-note spoiled, vapid and deceitful that it's hard to root for.

The film sure is pretty, but it's flat (much flatter than Baz Luhrmann's previous works, "Moulin Rouge" and "Australia").  It just goes to show that all that glitter may not be gold.

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/k6yn572

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"Oblivion"

  "Earth is a memory worth fighting for.”

“Oblivion” centers on a drone technician, Jack Harper (Tom Cruise, “Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol), who flies a Bubble Ship (a hybrid of a fighter spaceship and helicopter) and is tasked to fix downed drones on earth in 2077.  He lives in a sleek dig high above the clouds together with his partner, Victoria (Andrea Riseborough), who also serves as his communication officer.  She monitors his safety from their base in space and dutifully reports to their superior, Sally (Melissa Leo) through a sophisticated system.  Before embarking on their five-year service, Jack and Victoria had their memories wiped to maintain the security of their mission.

60 years ago, earth was invaded by aliens, called 'scavs' (scavengers).  The scavs shattered the moon, and without the moon, the earth destablized, resulting in earthquakes and tsunamis that destroyed half of the planet.  Humans launched nukes to stave off the scavs and eventually won the war.  However, the earth became mostly inhabitable and the surviving humans moved to Titan, one of the moons of the Saturn ring.  The drones are used to man fusion reactors that drain seawater and convert into energy.  They also patrol the earth's surface to shoot down any remaining scavs. 

Jack and Victoria are nearing the end of their mission; in two weeks, they will conclude their service and join the rest of the humans in Titan.  While Victoria is looking forward to it, Jack has doubts and oddly feels that earth would always be his home.  He's traveled far and wide and found unspoiled swaths on earth, including a remote cabin by the lake, a calming oasis.  His uncertainty is confounded by recurring dreams of a woman (Olga Kurylenko) and flashes of life in New York, which strangely feels like a memory of a past than a fantasy. 

When a spaceship crash lands on earth, Jack finds that it's filled with several pods of humans in hyper-sleep state.  And inside one of the pods, is the woman in his dreams, who later wakes up and mentions that her name is Julia.  Jack and Julia are discovered and captured by a group of rebels (led by Morgan Freeman and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau), human survivors.  The events that transpire, followed with fierce flying and firefights, make Jack realize that his life is not what it seems to be and that he's not what he thinks he is.  He may just unknowingly holds the fate of mankind on his hands. 

Director Joseph Kosinski (“Tron Legacy”) executes his vision with excellence.  Cruise plays his part with sincerity, connects with both of his leading ladies and the higher mission he's entrusted with.  With a straightforward story and humanity, “Oblivion” is captivating from the start.  Part of the appeal is the mystery, which unfurls easily piece by piece and takes us along through each discovery and ultimate truth.  A bigger appeal is the phenomenal visual, reminiscent of last year's “Prometheus,” elevated by an electronica beat, along the same vein of "Tron Legacy" and “Hanna.”  Oscar-winning cinematographer Claudio Miranda (“Life of Pi”) creates a vast and elegant canvas.  Desolate, barren wasteland dotted with ruined monuments in stark contrast with deep gorges and verdant mountains.  The sterile white of the glassy homebase and pool in space with the homey, lakeside wood cabin on earth. 

A cool sci-fi with a heart, “Oblivion” is satisfyingly entertaining. 

http://www.sdentertainer.com/arts/reviews-arts/movie-review-oblivion/

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/d4c935y
DVD (blu-ray): http://tinyurl.com/d8jhlna

Bubble Ship Display at 2013 WonderCon

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Upcoming Movies: June 2013

[Originally posted on 6/02/13]

June 7
"The Internship" (http://www.theinternshipmovie.com/) - Two salesmen whose careers have been torpedoed by the digital age find their way into a coveted internship at Google, where they must compete with a group of young, tech-savvy geniuses for a shot at employment.

"The Purge" - A family is held hostage for harboring the target of a murderous syndicate during the Purge, a 12-hour period in which any and all crime is legalized.

June 14
"Man of Steel" (http://manofsteel.warnerbros.com/index.html) - A young journalist is forced to confront his secret extraterrestrial heritage when Earth is invaded by members of his race.

"The Bling Ring" - Inspired by actual events, a group of fame-obsessed teenagers use the internet to track celebrities' whereabouts in order to rob their homes.

June 21
"World War Z" (http://www.worldwarzmovie.com/) - A United Nations employee traverses the world in a race against time to stop the Zombie pandemic that is toppling armies and governments, and threatening to destroy humanity itself.

"Monster University" (http://disney.go.com/monsters-university/) - A look at the relationship between Mike and Sulley during their days at Monsters University -- when they weren't necessarily the best of friends.

June 28
"White House Down" (http://www.whitehousedown.com/site/) - While on a tour of the White House with his young daughter, a Capitol policeman springs into action to save his child and protect the president from a heavily armed group of paramilitary invaders.

"Byzantium" - Residents of a coastal town learn, with deathly consequences, the secret shared by the two mysterious women who have sought shelter at a local resort.

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