"Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice"

I was one of those who sang heavenly praises for "Man of Steel."  Grandeur and epic, it's also deep and personal. The vast scope, intense and extensive battles, modernized suit, extravagant visual effects and thunderous score were amazing, but it's the powerfully realistic story that makes this Superman (Henry Cavill, "The Man from U.N.C.L.E") relatable and thus an enduring superhero. The closing scene was perfect and showed great promise of what's to come.

That promising ending didn't exactly materialize the right way, however.  Here's why.  Unlike other solo superhero movies, the Zack Snyder-directed "Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice" is not really a sequel to the Superman story.  It's more like a Batman (Ben Affleck, "Gone Girl," "Argo") redux and certainly a prelude to Justice League.

Not that there's anything wrong with having such movie.  DC's archrival, Marvel, is doing it this year with the third installment of Captain America, "Civil War," stuffing it with members of the Avengers and looking like a continuation of last year's "Avengers: Age of Ultron."  But the difference is each Marvel superhero has firmly established its origin story, character, growth and journey before getting thrown into a superhero ensemble.  In the case of Captain America, the second installment, "Captain America: The Winter's Soldier" is one of the best superhero movies of all time.

In other words, "Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice" should be made, but it's too soon at this juncture and at the expense of the real "Man of Steel 2."  I would have loved to see Superman fleshed out as a character, continuing to find his own footing first, adjusting and learning to the awkward life of Clark Kent the journalist, growing into his romance with Lois Lane (Amy Adams, "American Hustle," "Leap Year"), facing his own enemy, and so on.  Instead, we've got a time jump.  Clark Kent has been at the Daily Planet for a while, and he and Lois have a domestic comfort level of as a couple.  Moments of conflict speed through in flashing fragments.  We're more or less told or things are implied rather than shown.

And unlike sunnier Marvel movies, "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" is dark and dour through and through.  When done right, gritty is great.  Nobody could forget "The Dark Knight."  But an entire grimness is combined with the lack of proper storytelling and development, the film just feels rushed and somber.

That said, there's still plenty to enjoy.  There's something thrilling about witnessing the superhero trinity - Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman - standing side by side, and knowing the Justice will come into fruition.  It's only a matter of time; a few major characters from the future ensemble appear in a flash here.

"Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice" begins with the massive collateral damage resulting from the clash of the Kyrptonians, Superman and General Zod, in "Man of Steel."  It is actually refreshing to take this into account.  Most superhero movies have their heroes go to war and leave destructions in their wake, without a mention of the toll it takes on society.  These actions have consequences, impacting real people.

The terror, desperation and anger are seen through the eyes of Bruce Wayne.  Wayne Tower crumbles and casualties abound in front of him, and there's absolutely nothing he could do about it.  He may be Batman, but at the end of the day, he's just a man and mere mortal.

One of the opening scenes also introduces us to the core of Batman, through the senseless murder of his parents in the alley, thrusting him to the care of the family's trusted butler, Alfred (Jeremy Iron).  When Superman comes into existence, this Batman has been a veteran of the streets, a violent vigilante who brands his criminal captures with iron marks.

Capturing criminals is an endless work; when one goes down, another comes up.   Disillusioned Bruce feels that he has a higher mission, reigning in Superman.  True, Superman saves the world, on the other hand, General Zod and crew would not have brought the war to Earth if not because of him. And with the collapse of the Wayne Tower, he suffers a personal loss as well.  Superman, with his godlike powers, could wipe out the human race and a thus a threat that must be eradicated.

The cynical society catches on too and is divided into smear campaigners and savior worshippers. There are incidents where Superman was framed and thought to deliberately cause deaths.  A political hearing is held for Superman to answer for his actions.  There are those who think that Superman should not be left unchecked and acts unilaterally.

In the background,  a manic Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg, "Now You See Me,"  "The Social Network") is taking advantage of the highly charged temperature.  He masterminds a plan that gains insight into Superman's history and uses Batman's misdirected fear and resolute to hold the greatest gladiator match in history.

To those skeptics who believe there would never be a fair fight between Batman and Superman, you're partially right.  However, it is believable the way the scenes play out here.  This is a determined Batman who devises a meticulous plan and pulls out all the stops to level the field.  And Superman has his hands tight because of Lex's devious scheme; he tries to hold back in the beginning, to his detriment.  It's a brutal fight; one you thought you'd never see.

The turning point, which turns Batman around, comes unexpectedly and quickly.  Some may surmise that it's a gimmick, but it actually make sense.  The resolution ties into Batman's haunting memory of his childhood and humanization of Superman in his mind.

Last but not least, the most famous female superhero, Wonder Woman, makes a striking entrance (enhanced by a dramatic score) after her curious appearance as her alter-ego, Diana Prince.  Gal Gadot ("Fast and Furious" series) looks fantastic as a warrior princess and fights credibly.  She more than holds her own in the trinity's battle against Doomsday, a visual blast.  It would be great to see her story explored in the standalone "Wonder Woman" movie next summer, June 23, 2017.

The movie ends with extended scenes of a twist, although thankfully not without an assurance that Justice League will indeed be happening.  It may not be "Man of Steel 2," but "Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice" is a story about how legends collide, set aside their differences, and unite to save the world.  In this sense, it's a wish fulfilled.  The "Justice League Part One" will be released on November 17, 2017.

http://www.sdentertainer.com/movies/movie-review-batman-v-superman-dawn-of-justice/

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/batmanvsupermandvd

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"Zootopia"

It's not another animation.

"Zootopia" is not a typical animation with common themes like following your dream, believing in yourself, teamwork, family, friendship, loyalty or courage.  There's a little bit of those, but it's so, so much more. 

What floors me the most is how ingenious the way "Zootopia" digs into and illustrates contemporary societal issues. It zestily deals with complex issues, such as racism, sexism, discrimination, segregation, bullying, stereotyping, nature vs. nurture.  It cleverly camouflages them behind cute animation mirrors, making them are surprisingly engaging, educational and entertaining.  Not to mention shrewdly humorous.  In particular, watch the memorable DMV mocking scene; it will literally have you in stitches!

An ambitious little bunny grows up a in farm and becomes the first in her family to pass the rigorous police academy and become a rookie cop, to the worries of her parents, as it is a dangerous profession.  With stars in her eyes, she moves to Zootopia.  In this vibrantly rendered, diverse utopia, preys and predators exist harmoniously. This is the place where anyone can be anything they want to be.

As it turns out, reality is more complicated than that.  Unfairly relegated to be a "meter maid," the ever-optimist bunny has to work multiple times harder to prove herself to the chief and her colleagues (bigger, tougher animals), through smarts and tenacity, that she's just as capable, if not more, than the rest.

Through a series of unfortunate incidents, the bunny reluctantly teams up with a sly fox (the most unlikely buddy-cop relationship) with a traumatic past.  They end up working on an intricate investigation, uncovering the whereabouts of missing mammals. Some turn up to be predators, who turn aggressive and terrorize the city.  City hall politics are involved, fear campaigns and peace rallies; dividing residents of the city.  Blame game and misdirection abound.   The real villain, may not be what you think it is.

In the end, there is no perfect world.  We all make mistakes.  And sometimes, we don't always get along.  But we also can try to do our best to make a difference, and in the process, we can make the world a better place.

Imaginatively fresh and very grown-up, "Zootopia" is quite possibly the most brilliant, best animation of all time!

http://www.sdentertainer.com/movies/movie-review-zootopia/

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

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"10 Cloverfield Lane"

"Monsters come in many forms."

More of a spinoff, "10 Cloverfield Lane," a feature film debut by director Dan Trachtenberg, is not a sequel of the 2008 monster movie that went viral, "Cloverfield." Fans may be able to find some semblance of connections, but for the majority of us, it is a standalone movie - and there's nothing wrong with it.  In reality, it is a far superior creation.  And thank goodness, no shaky cam.  Like the J.J. Abrams' spellbindingly  "Super 8," the movie brings home a tense tone and ambiance, but making it a hostile, grown-up version in an isolated setting.

Both "Cloverfield" and "Super 8" have monsters; here, it will keep you guessing whether there is a monster, but as the tagline says, monsters come in many forms.  They may or may not necessarily be aliens.

The screen opens mundanely.  A young woman, Michelle (Mary Elizabeth Winstead), leaving a diamond ring on  the table, flees with her car.  She presumably breaks things off with her boyfriend.  The faceless boyfriend appears in a form of a telephone call (voiced by Bradley Cooper, "American Sniper") while she's driving.  All of a sudden, Michelle is in a freak car crash.

Michelle wakes up and finds herself chained to a bed in a sparse room, locked with a metal door.  A little banged up, but nothing major.  The next few minutes kicks everything into hyper gear and never lets up.  Michelle struggles to wiggle and release herself, facing her captor, a burly, surly guy named Howard (John Goodman).  From that very moment, you'll know right away she's not some damsel-in-distress.  Michelle is supremely resourceful and mentally strong.  And throughout the course of the movie, she proves herself to be a heroine.

This looks like a straightforward kidnapping flick.  Far from it.  Howard rambles on, letting Michelle know that he saves her from the crash and takes her to his underground lair because the world as she knows it, has been wiped out.  There has been a mysterious attack; whether it's chemical or alien, it's not clear.  What seems to be clear is that the air outside is contaminated to the point of toxic to living beings.  He built and fortified the shelter in preparation for doomsday.  It is stocked like a real home, with the comforts of TV, music and games.  The dark humor of domesticity helps lighten the claustrophobic mood.  

Michelle, understandably, doesn't buy what Howard is selling.  Things shift a bit when she encounters Emmett (John Gallagher, Jr.), a good-natured chap, who tells her that he's actually there willingly.  As a matter of fact, he injures his arm trying to get himself into the bunker to escape from what's out there.  They also see flickers of light and hear vociferous noises coming from outside.  Even more convincingly, Michelle ends up seeing a diseased woman banging on the door, pleading to let her in, which seems proves Howard's story.  Furthermore, she also gets to know him better, finding out that he had a daughter.

Michelle lets her guard down a bit, but an incident puts her back in a full alert and survival mode.  After all, it's not that she's never seen Howard's bursts of temper.  And there's always an underlining uncertainty of whether or not Howard is telling the truth, and even if he is, to what extent.  He can be bizarrely affable, but mostly stern and creepy.

To reveal more would be a great disservice.  This is one of those rare breeds that you should go in knowing nothing.  Trust that you will undergo a psychological terror of a roller-coaster, keeping you squirming at the edge of your seat.  Taut script, crisp editing, alarming score, intense performances work so well together, immersing you in a paranoia-soaked experience from beginning to end.  The ending is an overblown bonkers, but it doesn't take away the shine from this suspenseful gem.

Take a mind trip down the "10 Cloverfield Lane."  Original, phenomenal and filled with maximum shocks.

http://www.sdentertainer.com/movies/movie-review-10-cloverfield-lane/

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/10cloverfieldlanedvd

DVD (blu-ray): http://tinyurl.com/10cloverfieldlanebluray

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2016 Summer Blockbusters

[Originally posted on 5/07/16]

2016 Summer Blockbusters Mashup: (in 4 minutes)

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Upcoming Movies: June 2016

[Originally posted on 5/20/16]

June 3
"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows" (http://www.teenagemutantninjaturtlesmovie.com/) - The Turtles return to save the city from a dangerous threat.

"Me Before You" (http://mebeforeyoumovie.com/) - A girl in a small town forms an unlikely bond with a recently-paralyzed man she's taking care of.

June 10
"Now You See Me 2" (http://www.nowyouseeme.movie/) - The Four Horsemen resurface and are forcibly recruited by a tech genius to pull off their most impossible heist yet.

"Warcraft" (http://www.warcraftmovie.com/) - The peaceful realm of Azeroth stands on the brink of war as its civilization faces a fearsome race of invaders: orc warriors fleeing their dying home to colonize another. As a portal opens to connect the two worlds, one army faces destruction and the other faces extinction. From opposing sides, two heroes are set on a collision course that will decide the fate of their family, their people, and their home.

June 17
"Finding Dory" (http://movies.disney.com/finding-dory) - The friendly-but-forgetful blue tang fish reunites with her loved ones, and everyone learns a few things about the real meaning of family along the way.

"Central Intelligence" (http://www.centralintelligencemovie.com/) - After he reunites with an old pal through Facebook, a mild-mannered accountant is lured into the world of international espionage.

June 24
"Independence Day: Resurgence" (http://www.foxmovies.com/movies/independence-day-resurgence) - Two decades after the first Independence Day invasion, Earth is faced with a new extra-Solar threat. But will mankind's new space defenses be enough?

"The Shallows" - A mere 200 yards from shore, a female surfer is attacked by a great white shark. Her short journey to safety becoming the ultimate contest of wills.

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Academy Awards 2016

[For reviews of some of the nominated films, click here].

#OscarsSoWhite.  The Oscars have seen its share of controversies, but this year kicks it up a notch.  2016 marks the second year in a row where no one in color has been nominated for acting, spurring boycotts, racial talks, diversity discussions, and call for institutional change.

For his part, Chris Rock, the host of the 88th Academy Awards, tweeted a cryptic message, #Blackout, ahead of the show, fueling speculations that the comedian would not be deterred from digging into the highly charged topic.

Rock rocked the room from the start, calling the Oscars the “White People’s Choice Awards.”   Had hosts been nominated, he quipped he would not have got the job. He said that while he was encouraged to back out, he would not quit because only unemployed people would do it.  He plainly remarked that decades ago when there were no black nominations, they were not protesting… because they had real issues to protest about (than fussing about an award show).  If we would like to guarantee blacks getting nominated, we should have a black nominees category every year.  In all seriousness, he concluded that black people would just like to receive the same opportunities.  

On sexism in Hollywood, it’s simply common sense. Rock pointed out that actors did not get asked about what they’re wearing because they all essentially wore the same clothing, unlike actresses with varied (and sometimes outlandish) styles.   

Following the black vs. white theme, a black actor was inserted in clips of several nominated movies, eliciting hilarious reactions from fellow actors in those movies.  Also celebrating Black History Month (February), there were mocking snippets, such as showcasing Jack Black (with “Black” being his real last name).

Writers received the first honors of the night, with “Spotlight” winning Best Original Screenplay and “The Big Short” Best Adapted Screenplay. 

Best Supporting Actress award went to rising newcomer Alicia Vikander for “The Danish Girl,” who also gave a terrific performance in “Ex Machina.” “Ex Machina” pulled an upset win (although well-deserved) by winning Best Visual Effects.  Brie Larson, frontrunner for Best Actress, nabbed the statue for her emotional performance in “Room.”  Another first-time nominee, Mark Rylance, won Best Supporting Actor for “Bridge of Spies,” besting nostalgic-favorite Sylvester Stallone.

Something new this year, some of the costumes and set decors from nominated films were displayed on stage, which is a nice touch.  Sci-fi “Mad Max: Fury Road” cleaned up with a half dozen awards, Best Costume Design, Production Design, Film Editing, Sound Editing, Sound Mixing, and Makeup and Hairstyling. 

Best Original Score award went to "The Hateful Eight" and Best Original Song to "Spectre."

Emmanuel Lubezki became the first cinematographer to have won Best Cinematography award three consecutive years; for “The Revenant” this year, “Birdman” last year and “Gravity” two years ago.  Its director, Alejandro G. Innaritu, also earned a win for the film.  He won last year for “Birdman.”  And it’s finally Leo DiCaprio’s year.  Having been nominated several times and lost each time, he was locked in this time for Best Actor and scored the prize for his extreme role in “The Revenant.”  He gave an eloquent speech and took the time to vocalize environmental concerns, a cause close to his heart.

To mix thing up a bit, Star Wars and Toy Story characters, and Despicable Me minions took part on stage for animated skits and awards announcement.  Like clockwork, Pixar’s “Inside Out” took home Best Animated Feature.

Vice President Joe Biden made an appearance to put a spotlight on sexual abuse awareness and asked everyone to pledge intervention.  He introduced Lady Gaga, who then performed a piano piece and song, "Til It Happens to You."  The performance was capped with dozens of sexual abuse survivors joining her on stage and held hands together, a moving sight received with a standing ovation.

Best Picture award was a three-pronged wild card (“The Revenant,” “Spotlight,” “The Big Short”) and it came down to “Spotlight," an important story that needs to be seen.  

For a complete list of winners, check out the official site here.

http://www.sdentertainer.com/movies/academy-awards-2016-recap/

And the Oscar goes to...

Best Picture
"Spotlight"

Best Leading Actor
Leonardo DiCaprio, "The Revenant"

Best Leading Actress
Brie Larson, "Room"

Best Director
Alejandro González Iñárritu, "The Revenant"

Best Original Score
"The Hateful Eight," Ennio Morricone

Best Original Song
'Writings on the Wall,' "Spectre," Jimmy Napes and Sam Smith

Best Supporting Actor
Mark Rylance, "Bridge of Spies"

Best Animated Feature Film
"Inside Out," Pete Docter and Jonas Rivera

Best Visual Effects
"Ex Machina," Andrew Whitehurst, Paul Norris, Mark Ardington and Sara Bennett

Best Sound Mixing
"Mad Max: Fury Road," Chris Jenkins, Gregg Rudloff and Ben Osmo

Best Sound Editing
"Mad Max: Fury Road," Mark Mangini and David White

Best Film Editing
"Mad Max: Fury Road," Margaret Sixel

Best Cinematography
"The Revenant," Emmanuel Lubezki

Best Makeup and Hairstyling
"Mad Max: Fury Road," Lesley Vanderwalt, Elka Wardega and Damian Martin

Best Production Design
"Mad Max: Fury Road," Colin Gibson and Lisa Thompson

Best Costume Design
"Mad Max: Fury Road," Jenny Beavan

Best Supporting Actress
Alicia Vikander, "The Danish Girl"

Best Adapted Screenplay
"The Big Short," Charles Randolph and Adam McKay

Best Original Screenplay
"Spotlight," Josh Singer and Tom McCarthy

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2016 Awards Season: Feature Film Highlights

The 2016 Academy Awards will be held on February 28, 2016.  Take some time out to catch up on some of the nominated films up for awards! (best picture, directing, acting, editing, writing, music, visual effects, sound editing and mixing, production and/or costume design).  A number of these movies are still playing on extended run at your local theaters. 

http://www.sdentertainer.com/movies/2016-awards-season-feature-film-highlights/

Here are some of the highlights:

"The Big Short"

Mortgage-backed securities.  Subprime loans.  Adjustable rate mortgage.  Credit default swaps.  Collateralized debt obligation.  How do you think a movie tackling such dry and difficult topics fare?  Dull?  Cumbersome?  Incomprehensible?  Not even close.  The filmmakers craftily executes the film.  To avoid monotone exposition, concepts and occasions are illustrated in a variety of ways.  Songs and news and characters facing and speaking directly to viewers.  And most ingeniously, comically utilizing actress Margot Robbie, chef Anthony Bourdain and singer Selena Gomez, who all make cameos as themselves.  With such serious subject, surprisingly, "The Big Short" is not short on jocularity.  The madcap pace, akin to the award-nominated "The Wolf of Wall Street" (albeit without the gratuitous shots or glamorous sheen), helps make it entertaining.  The film is an enlightening companion piece to the award-winning documentary, "Inside Job."   The ending will make you think about whether the whole economic apocalypse could happen all over again.  Ingloriously funny, fiery and frightening, "The Big Short" is no small feat.  Check out the full review and trailer here. 

***

"Bridge of Spies"

In 1957, a New York insurance lawyer, James Donovan (Tom Hanks, "Saving Mr. Banks"), gets pulled back into criminal law, called to represent an accused Soviet spy, Rudolf Abel (Mark Rylance).  James, an honest, principled man finds that justice can be relative, even as America showing to the world that we provide due process and capable defense for everyone.  A skilled negotiator, James intuitively understands his opponents and pushes the right buttons to make things happen in tricky political waters and hostile climate.  This is a story about doing the right thing even when it doesn't suit your purpose and having respect for people for doing their job honorably for their country even when you don't agree with what they do.  Not as tension-filled as one might think, it's a serious slow-burn, surprisingly sprinkled with mordant humor. Based on real events and helmed by Steven Spielberg ("Lincoln"), "Bridge of Spies" is classily crafted, directed and acted.  Steady, measured and assured historical Cold War drama.  Check out the full review and trailer here.

***

"Cinderella"

It's every little girl's fantasy. Being a princess. And among all the princesses, Cinderella is arguably the fairest of them all.  Unlike the reinvention of the last several adaptations, which edges on the darker side or leans towards modern feminism, "Cinderella” is a straightforward retelling of the classic, although it's not without surprising gems.  The fairy magic does wonders. It's magical to see Cinderella transform, twirl and glow in the shimmery ball gown and sparkling glass slippers. And the rest is a delightful treat because of the gradual transmutations where you can still see partial semblance to the original forms. From pumpkin turning carriage, mice into horses, goose into coachman, lizards into footmen, and back to their origins.  For an old-fashioned story, it ends with an empowering message to speak your mind, stay true to yourself and have the courage to do the right thing.  Lushly gorgeous and opulently vibrant, “Cinderella” is so earnest and charming that you'll be swept away in the dreamy fairy-tale romance and magic of happily ever-after.  Check out the full review and trailer here. 

***

"The Danish Girl"

Einar Wegener/Lili Elbe (Eddie Redmayne, "The Theory of Everything," "Les Miserables," "My Week with Marilyn") is documented as one of the first persons to receive a sex reassignment surgery.  In 1920, Copenhagen, Einar and Gerda Wegener (Alicia Vikander, "Ex-Machina," "The Man from U.N.C.L.E") are like any other young, married couple.  Einar is a successful landscape artist and Gerda a portrait painter.  When a model fails to show up for painting, Gerda jovially persuades her husband to stand in with a women's clothing.  It is at this moment that Einar feels... something.  Something indescribable that makes him feel closer to his true self, which he believes that he's woman.  The film has a soft-focus feel with colorful palette, postcard-perfect scenery, impeccable interior and luxurious costume design.  While Redmayne bravely steps into a unique role, it is Gerda's perpective and Vikander's acting that stand out.   Perchance "The Danish Girl" is not about Einar Wegener/Lili Elbe, but a story about the 'other' Danish girl, Gerda Wegener.  Check out the full review and trailer here. 

***

"Ex-Machina"

A young coder, Caleb (Domhnall Gleeson), wins an office prize for a weeklong retreat with Nathan (Oscar Isaac), the company's reclusive CEO and inventor of the world's most popular search engine. Nathan has been working on a secret project, artificial intelligence in the form of humanoid-robot named Ava (Alicia Vikander).  You'd feel things are not what they seem and something sinister is going to surface, but you don't know what, when or how. It's tantalizingly thrilling. Vikander is a wonder, walking a fine line between human and machine. Her Ava, partially translucent with wires and circuits and partially covered in human skin, is both mechanically perfect and surrealistically human. The reveals come in pieces and they boggle the mind. Ethical quandaries of identity, humanity, freedom, life and mortality. If you could create a machine with human consciousness, would you... just because you could? What if artificial intelligence goes beyond artificial? Does it have the right to exist? How would it be integrated to society? What are the implications? What will become of mankind?  Strikingly compelling, cerebrally cool and eerily suspenseful, “Ex Machina” delivers on the futuristic visual and philosophical level and ceases with an ending that lingers in your mind.  Check out the full review and trailer here.  

***

"The Martian"

During an exploration in Mars, a fierce sandstorm forces a team of astronauts, led by commander Melissa Lewis (Jessica Chastain, "Zero Dark Thirty," "The Debt") to abort their mission and evacuate the base.  Astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon, "Elysium," "The Adjustment Bureau") is impaled by a satellite antenna, left stranded and presumed dead.  In a hostile, arid planet and encased in solitude, Mark uses his expertise as a botanist and resourcefulness to generate oxygen, create heat, produce water, grow crops and ration his limited food.  And perhaps just as important, not losing his sense of optimism and wry humor to keep his sanity and spirit alive.  On Earth, a lively group of really smart, passionate people working together tirelessly to develop solutions to rescue Mark.  Drawing upon science, intelligence, collaboration and imagination, it shows how the brightest minds can accomplish great things together.  "The Martian" is a crowdpleaser, hopefully one that may inspire the next generation of space explorations.  Check out the full review and trailer here.

***

"Spotlight"

The film takes us back to 2001 for a behind-the-scene look at "Spotlight, " a team of professional journalists working tirelessly to uncover the truth, unravel and assemble information piece by piece, yielding chilling revelations that rock one of the oldest and most esteemed institutions, the Catholic Church.  Their year-long investigative work and news story won them a Pulitzer award.  This is more than chasing a story,  making a mark or generating money for the publication.  While it's an explosive expose, it is not sensationalized.  This is a hard-hitting storytelling, conducted with sensibility and acted with remarkable realism.  The film also shows the power of the press.  That when a focus of a story is carefully selected, thoroughly investigated, responsibly corroborated, persistently followed through and timed well for publishing can make a far-reaching and lasting difference.  "Spotlight" not only demonstrates investigative journalism at its finest, but perhaps more importantly, it shines a spotlight on a previously untouchable story.  Check out the full review and trailer here. 

***

"Steve Jobs"

"Musicians play the instruments.  I play the orchestra," said Steve Jobs (Michael Fassbender, "X-Men" series, "Prometheus") in response to a question why he gets all the glory since he's not an engineer or designer, and that he takes all the credit for the brilliant and tireless work from the people who devote themselves to him.  The Danny Boyle-directed "Steve Jobs" is uniquely structured like a play, a three-act play before three key product launches; Macintosh, NeXT and iMac.  A paradox, Steve Jobs is out-of-the-box thinker, yet out-of-touch with human connection.  The backstage drama is a cacophony filled with farcical facades about product features, room preparations, and intense confrontations about relationships where each act ends with a phenomenal, cult-like mania when the man of the hour seizes the stage.  The rapid-fire dialogue, razor-sharp script, deft direction and fast-paced editing will keep you fixated onto the screen.  The stakes are elevated and emotions are running at a fever pitch.  "Steve Jobs" is masterfully orchestrated like a spectacular theatrical play in a grand opera house, complete with orchestral music.  Check out the full review and trailer here. 

***

"Trumbo"

"Trumbo" chronicles the life of Dalton Trumbo (Bryan Cranston), one of Tinseltown's most successful and highest paid screenwriters in the 1940s and 1950s.  It's a dark time in Hollywood and American history; the Red Scare period post-World War II where thousands and thousands of people suspected for or believed in communism are targeted unjustly.  Even branded as a traitor, Dalton never lets darkness dims his survivor spirit.  Dalton starts ghostwriting for other writers, working for a fraction of his fees for B-rated producers producing movies starring A-list stars.  Even more fascinating, he establishes a homebased screenwriting business, working with other unemployed screenwriters and cranking out script after script.  The shenanigan eventually pays off, with films like "The Roman Holiday," "The Brave One," "The Exodus" and "Spartacus" grace the silver screen, furtively netting Dalton two Oscars.  "Trumbo" is oddly delightful.   If you're into the movies scene, politics and civil liberties, you'll enjoy the film's history lesson, old-fashioned Hollywood feel, witty wordsmithery and joie de vivre spirit.  Check out the full review and trailer here. 

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Upcoming Movies: May 2016

[Originally posted on 4/28/16]

May 6

"Captain America: Civil War" (http://marvel.com/captainamerica) - Political interference in the Avengers' activities causes a rift between former allies Captain America and Iron Man.

"A Bigger Splash" - The vacation of a famous rock star and a filmmaker is disrupted by the unexpected visit of an old friend and his daughter.

May 13

"Money Monster" - In the real-time, high stakes thriller Money Monster, financial TV host Lee Gates (George Clooney) and his producer Patty (Julia Roberts) are put in an explosive situation when an irate investor (Jack O'Connell) takes over their studio.

"The Lobster" (http://www.lobsterfilm.co.uk) - In a dystopian near future, single people, according to the laws of The City, are taken to The Hotel, where they are obliged to find a romantic partner in forty-five days or are transformed into beasts and sent off into The Woods.

May 20

"The Angry Birds Movie" (http://www.angrybirds-movie.com/en/) - Find out why the birds are so angry. When an island populated by happy, flightless birds is visited by mysterious green piggies, it's up to three unlikely outcasts - Red, Chuck and Bomb - to figure out what the pigs are up to.

"The Nice Guys" - A private eye investigates the apparent suicide of a fading porn star in 1970s Los Angeles and uncovers a conspiracy.

May 27

"X-Men: Apocalypse" (http://www.foxmovies.com/movies/x-men-apocalypse) - With the emergence of the world's first mutant, Apocalypse, the X-Men must unite to defeat his extinction level plan.

"Alice Through the Looking Glass" (http://movies.disney.com/alice-through-the-looking-glass) - Alice returns to the whimsical world of Wonderland and travels back in time to save the Mad Hatter.

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Win a Trip to San Diego Comic-Con 2016!

[Originally posted on 5/04/16]

In partnership with the Her Universe Fashion Show, Comic-Con HQ wants to send you to the 2016 San Diego Comic-Con!

Sweepstakes will begin Saturday, May 7 at 12:01 a.m. PT and end Friday, May 13 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Each person who signs up for Comic-Con HQ Beta during this time period will receive one (1) entry into the Sweepstakes.  There will be one (1) winner + 3 guest.

The trip will include flights, hotel accommodations, SDCC badges, and VIP seats at the Her Universe Fashion Show for up to four (4) people.

Sign up at http://tinyurl.com/comicconhqheruniverse

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Free Comic Book Day: May 7, 2016

[Originally posted on 5/01/16]

If you love comics, don't forget to grab your FREE comics at a participating store near you next Saturday, May 7, 2016 on Free Comic Book Day!

http://www.freecomicbookday.com

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"Hail, Caesar!"

It's more like Hail, Hollywood.

The title of the movie puts an emphasis on the star of a biblical ancient Rome epic (a movie within the movie), "Hail, Caesar!," Baird Whitlock (George Clooney, "The Monuments Men," "The Ides of March," "The Descendant").  Clooney plays a buffoon of a leading man.

But the film is actually centered around Eddie Mannix (Josh Brolin, "Oldboy"), Capitol Pictures Studio's head of production and all-around Hollywood fixer in the 1950s.  It's a ludicrous lens into a day in his shoes.

Like holding an animated focus group of religious leaders to gain their opinions to ensure that a movie script would not offend reasonable Americans with varied faith and creed.

Or cooking up unorthodox methods to protect the reputation of a rising starlet (Scarlett Johansson, the "Avengers" series, "Captain America: Winter Soldier," "Her").  The icon of innocence, seen here playing a beloved mermaid, finds herself pregnant out of wedlock.  Something that would create a scandal back then.

And dealing with a perturbed director (Ralph Fiennes, "Skyfall") when the studio makes a decision to take a befuddled cowboy actor (Alden Ehrenreich) and suddenly drops him in a high-society drama film.  The actor, whose sole experience is starring in Western movies, is also urged to make fast friends with the lead actress in public for image purposes.

Not to mention fending off twin-columnist, hungry gossipmongers (both portrayed by Tilda Swinton, "Michael Clayton"), sniffing for salacious exclusives.

As if Eddie's fires couldn't grow any bigger, Baird, in his drunken stupor, is kidnapped by a group of communist film writers.  They demand a $100K ransom in exchange of the release.  They find it a justified sum, as the studio makes the big bucks and none of them received any shares of the profit.  It gets more bizarre from there, as the money may be intended for another end goal.  It is up to Eddie to gather the cash and get his star back in time to resume the big-budget production.

Channing Tatum ("White House Down," "Side Effects," "Haywire") makes a surprisingly amusing appearance as a forlorn sailor, leading a song-and-tap dance number.

All in a day's work.  The work is trying and hours long.  It's not that Eddie doesn't have any other choice, however.  As a matter of fact, Lockheed Martin, an aviation giant, is wooing him with an attractive proposal to work for them and be in the 'serious' business of the future.

There is really no plot or character arc (see "Trumbo" instead), but by golly, it's chock-full of chuckles and the cinematography is sumptuous.

Parodying the rich and famous in the Golden Age, "Hail, Caesar!" is an entertaining satire and love note to Hollywood.

http://www.sdentertainer.com/movies/movie-review-hail-caesar/

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/hailcaesardvd

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"London Has Fallen"

[Originally posted on 3/05/16]

"Olympus Has Fallen" takes full advantage of the R-rating by having the highest body count and headshots ever seen in an action movie. The stabbings are brutal and gunfire roars almost nonstop. "London Has Fallen" follows in the similar, no-brainer footsteps.

This time in London, where world leaders on their way to the funeral of the British prime minister are assassinated in mass-coordinated attacks. While the first movie focuses the action inside confinement of the White House, it ups the scale here with dogged chopper and car pursuits.  It is up to the head of the presidential security detail to know who to trust, protect, find escape routes, and eventually extract and rescue the leader of the free world from being publicly executed in front of the world.

In addition to a typical inside job, there's a surprise element here (implausible as it may be) with the Pakistan-based terrorists having embedded themselves in a network of police, military and emergency personnel.

Not much of a story, it's lean, violent and filled with explosions, enough to satisfy action fans.

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/londonhasfallendvd

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Upcoming Movies: April 2016

[Originally posted on 3/30/16]

April 8
"Hardcore Henry" - A first-person action film from the eyes of Henry, who's resurrected from death with no memory. He must discover his identity and save his wife from a warlord with a plan to bio-engineer soldiers.

"Demolition" (http://www.foxsearchlight.com/demolition/) - A successful investment banker struggles after losing his wife in a tragic car crash.

April 15
"The Jungle Book" (http://movies.disney.com/the-jungle-book-2016) - An orphan boy is raised in the jungle with the help of a pack of wolves, a bear, and a black panther.

"Criminal" (http://www.criminal.movie/) - The memories & skills of a deceased CIA agent are implanted into an unpredictable and dangerous convict.

April 22
"The Huntsman's: Winter's War"(http://www.thehuntsmanmovie.com) - As two evil sisters prepare to conquer the land; two renegades - Eric the Huntsman - who previously aided Snow White in defeating Ravenna, and his forbidden lover, Sara set out to stop them.

"A Hologram for the King" - A failed American businessman looks to recoup his losses by traveling to Saudi Arabia and selling his idea to a wealthy monarch.

April 29
"Mother's Day" - Intersecting stories with different moms collide on Mother's Day.

"A Beautiful Planet" - An exploration of Earth and beyond as seen from outer space.

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"The Finest Hours"

"We all live or we all die."

It's the greatest small boat rescue in Coast Guard history.  During a raging nor'easter in 1952 off the coast of Cape Cod, four coast guards get on a motorboat and set out to rough seas to reach seafarers onboard of a wrecked oil tanker, SS Pendleton.  The storm is so ferocious that it splits two tankers in half.  Meanwhile, the coast guard station is undermanned.  The other crew members have already headed out to rescue the first tanker, SS Fort Mercer, only to find out belatedly that there's a second one stranded and in jeopardy.

The four-man team is led by a reserved, rule-abider Bennie Webber (Chris Pine, "Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit," "Unstoppable"), following an order to attempt what's akin to a suicide mission.  What they're experiencing is staggering.  Freezing rain, violent wind and monstrous waves smash and toss the boat around and into the air.  Incredibly, there are times when the boat, engulfed by the perilous waves, is completely submerged under water, only to come up to the surface and ride the surge.  With no compass, lost in the storm, Bernie steers the boat skillfully and somehow finds the sinking vessel.

Aboard the oil tanker, there's a lot of action and friction.  Whether to take the lifeboat and try to paddle to shore.  Or decide on methods to move the ship in ways that minimize the impact of the damage.  The captain, along with several other sailors, went down with the other half of the ship. Ultimately, leadership falls on Ray Sybert (Casey Affleck, "Gone Baby Gone"), a level-headed engineer, whose strategy to keep the ship afloat and then anchor it down proves to be crucial to the survival of the 30+ sailors.  All hands on deck, it takes precise measurements and coordinated chain of communication to execute the maneuvers.

It's not smooth-sailing once Bernie and crew encounter the ravaged tanker, however.  There's no easy way for the survivors to get down from the lofty ship to the motorboat except descending a flimsy ladder amidst the whirlwind storm. Some plunge down to sea and have to swim towards the boat.

All in all, 32 survivors are onboard the rescue boat with a capacity of 12.  Bernie, the man who always walks the straight line, and the one doubted by others because his last rescue effort wasn't successful, has to make a decision that determines the fate of all those men.  Battling severe frigidity and fatigue, he has to navigate his way back to shore and bring them home safely.

"Disneyesque" romance is integrated into the story.  Bernie's backstory, from his first meeting with his forward fiancee, Miriam (Holliday Grainger, "Cinderella").  The drama of it is a bit much in a daring seafaring actioner like this, and at the expense of other characters, the mariners on the ship.  I would have liked to know more about Ray, the de facto captain, since he's such an instrumental figure.

The ending is such a welcome sight in a snowy night, with headlights beaconing hometown heroes and survivors.  Based on a heroic true story, "The Finest Hours" is realistically terrifying (thanks to impressive special effects and score), but also a miraculous feat that warms the heart.

http://www.sdentertainer.com/movies/movie-review-the-finest-hours/

DVD: http://tinyurl.com/thefinesthoursdvd

Book: http://tinyurl.com/thefinesthoursbook

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Golden Globes 2016

If some nominees were nervous, it might not only be because whether they would win, but also because Ricky Gervais was back.  After a three-year run, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler hang up the hosting mantle duties.  Gervais has been invited back to host the 73rd Golden Globes show.  In his last show in 2012, some of the cheeky host's jokes were considered too off-color for some.

With a glass of beer on hand, Gervais started off by saying that he had changed (although not as changed as Bruce Jenner/Caitlyn Jenner) and would try to be nice this time.

Gervais put NBC, the network that aired the show this year, front and center.  He quipped that it was only appropriate for the network to air it because it’s the only network with no nominations.

To introduce a speech from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, Gervais mentioned that the Golden Globes didn’t have an “In Memoriam” section to make everyone depressed (the HFPA speech would be it).

Hollywood stars became an easy target in general. Recognizing that some stars might be nervous for fear of being made fun of, he didn't think it would be enough for them to stay away from the chance of winning a Golden Globe, especially if the film companies had already paid for it.  He took a swipe at the meaning of winning the award, reminding that it’s only important to the stars and nobody else.

On equal pay topic, Gervais confessed that he was paid the same amount as Fey and Poehler – together – last year.  Highlighting the deportation topic from presidential candidate Donald Trump, Eva Longoria and America Ferrera were picked as those who could be deported.

Gervais played nice with Mel Gibson, whom he made fun of years ago for being drunk.  Gervais stated that he would rather have a drink with Gibson than Bill Cosby.  Gibson dished out that he loved seeing Gervais every three years as it reminded him to get a colonoscopy.

Tom Hanks presented the Cecil B. DeMille lifetime achievement award to Denzel Washington. He was pretty much speechless, admitting that he forgot his speech and needing glasses to read it.  It was nice to see he brought his family onto the stage with him to accept the award.

The first award of the night, Best Supporting Actress, Motion Picture Drama, went to a visibly shocked Kate Winslet for her role in “Steve Jobs.”  She mentioned the insane amount of dialogue in the script, which wasn’t easy to do.  And that script, which made the movie one of the very best, earned Aaron Sorkin Best Screenplay gold.  On the lead actress category, Brie Larson brought home Best Actress award for “Room,” graciously recognizing that half of the award went to her young co-star, Jacob Tremblay.  Sylvester Stallone scored Best Supporting Actor for “Creed.”  He walked onto the stage among standing ovation.  His last nomination for a Golden Globe was 39 years ago.

On the musical and comedy side, Best Actor statue went to Matt Damon for his performance in “The Martian,” a great movie perplexingly categorized as a comedy.  Matt Damon was said to be the only person Ben Affleck, his best buddy, hadn't been unfaithful to.  The movie went on to win Best Motion Picture in this category.  The ever-popular Jennifer Lawrence nabbed Best Supporting Actress for “Joy.”

Best Original Score winner was initially announced as going to “Straight Outta Compton,” with the actual winner being “The Hateful Eight.”  The misannouncement was done on purpose, drawing parallel to the recent controversies at the Miss Universe Pageant, where the wrong winner was announced.  Best Original Song went to “Spectre.”

Best Animated Motion Picture went to frontrunner “Inside Out.”

Alejandro Inarritu, who made waves last year with “Birdman,” made a name for himself again this year by winning Best Director, Motion Picture Drama with “The Revenant.”  The movie was the big winner for the night, also winning Leonardo DiCaprio Best Actor, and taking home Best Motion Picture.

http://www.sdentertainer.com/movies/golden-globes-2016/

And the Golden Globe goes to…

Best Motion Picture, Drama
"The Revenant"

Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy
 "The Martian"

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture, Drama
Brie Larson, "Room"

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy
Jennifer Lawrence, "Joy"

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture, Drama
Leonardo DiCaprio, "The Revenant"

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture
Sylvester Stallone, "Creed"

Best Performance by Actress in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture
Kate Winslet, "Steve Jobs"

Best Director, Motion Picture, Drama
Alejandro González Iñárritu, "The Revenant"

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy
Matt Damon, "The Martian"

Best Screenplay, Motion Picture, Drama
Aaron Sorkin, "Steve Jobs"

Best Original Score, Motion Picture
Ennio Morricone, "The Hateful Eight"

Best Motion Picture, Animated
 "Inside Out"

Best Original Song, Motion Picture
"Writing's on the Wall," "Spectre"

For a full list of winners, visit the official website.

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