WonderCon 2016

[For a blast from the past, check out:

http://sdmoviemaven.blogspot.com/p/comiccon-wondercon.html]

WonderCon was in Los Angeles this year after having been in Anaheim since 2012 (previously originated and held in San Francisco) due to a scheduling conflict with the Anaheim convention center.

Badge scanner system made its debut; a trial run for Comic-Con in July.  In order to combat  pass forgeries and smuggling of badgeless guests, visitors were given scannable badges and each person had to "tap" the badge onto the scan tower at multiple checkpoints scattered around the entrance and exit areas.  It's relatively easy, although there were  some complaints, such as inoperative scanners, inconvenient height of towers and tapping points for some people.  The true test would come when it's implemented at Comic-Con, which always draws the largest crowd and longest lines.

Since I primarily focus on feature films (although I do cover TV premieres from time to time at past Comic-Con and WonderCon), there's not much to report this year on this front.   I only attended for one day and it's extremely light on movies.   There were only two movie panels and of the horror genre, "The Conjuring 2" and "Lights Out."  James Wan, director of "The Conjuring 2" was there, rolling out scary sneak peeks.  The second movie, "Lights Out," which was produced by Wan's production company, brought out its first-time feature film director, David Sandberg, along with co-creator/star Lotta Lotsen, producer Lawrence Grey and star Maria Bello.

Wan talked about his style, very grounded and classic in aesthetic.  Regardless of budget, he said that it's still necessary to be creative, because at the end of the day, it's the story and characters that would make people care.

In an interview with IGN, Wan revealed something about his upcoming superhero feature, "Aquaman" (whose cameo could be seen on the latest "Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice" movie).  The tone of his movie would be fun.  He wanted to show a cool, badass side of this character and looked forward to exploring potential sea monsters and cool creatures.

What's more interesting to me than the panel was to check out Microsoft Theater.  Microsoft Theater has been touted as Hall H's competition, with Los Angeles trying to lure Comic-Con out from San Diego.  I must say it's a swanky spot; theater setting, plush seating with cup holders.  Although not without hassles.  To enter, all visitors must undergo a metal detector and bag check.  Some guests were turned away due to certain features in their costumes, having glass bottles or beverage cans.  And then there's the walk.  The walk from the main convention center was pretty far.

All convention goers expect to do a lot of walking, but the Los Angeles Convention Center takes it to another level.  It is really sprawling, particularly in contrast with the compact Anaheim Convention Center.  Another snafu was the few most popular TV panels were held in a small room (less than Ballroom 20 capacity), making it impossible to get in.

Outside of the horror panel, I attended TV Showrunners, Romance in Sci-Fi & Fantasy and Spiritual Themes in Comics panels. The TV Showrunners discussed a showrunner's role, essentially like a director of a film, and challenges they faced - from budget, resources, negotiations, storytelling, making life-and-death decisions about characters, and facing fan reactions.  In attendance were showrunners Ali Adler ("Supergirl"), Craig DiGregorio ("Ash vs. Evil Dead"), Scott M. Gimple ("The Walking Dead"), Damon Lindelof ("The Leftovers"), Melissa Rosenberg (Marvel’s "Jessica Jones") and Paul Scheer ("Party Over Here").

For Romance in Sci-Fi & Fantasy, one of recurrent topics brought up was to show the softer side of characters before intense scenes, such as going into battle or being superheroes.  For the audience to care about the characters, they would have to get to know them first.  As far as relationships go, women can be portrayed as strong, without being threatening; however, men would need to be able to hold their own or you would not find an audience.  For Spiritual Themes in Comics, there was an emphasis on writing about spirituality realistically and not shy away from it, as it's natural to worship something and people had been doing it for ages.

One highlight of the day was CBS's press roundtable interviews for "Scorpion."   The producers and cast members in attendance (Nick Santora and Nicholas Wootton; Robert Patrick, Ari Stidham, Eddie Kaye Thomas and Scott Porter) took individual interviews, visited each of the press tables and chatted with us about the characters and their evolution, and storyline moving forward.

For those who are unfamiliar with the show, "Scorpion" is a TV series (now in season 2 and renewed for season 3) inspired by a real-life genius and computer prodigy, Walter O'Brien.  The eccentric team, led by a tough federal agent, is comprised of misfits; a behaviorist, a mechanical wonder and a statistics expert.  The last "recruit" is an average Jane with a gifted son.  She helps them communicating and interpreting the world around them.  They use their masterful minds to solve highly charged cases.  The show is outrageous and knows it; it doesn't take itself seriously, making it fun.  There's a strong focus on the dynamics among the team members.

The show's producers promised two big cliffhangers and a huge twist we would not see coming.  The ending would propel the show on the emotional side.  A certain question in a major relationship would be asked.  It's one love affair and another love affair-to-be.

An interesting development came out from the convention.  I had a chat with Joe LeFavi, Head of Marketing for Comic-Con HQ.  Comic-Con HQ is a new channel featuring a mixture of programming; original TV series and select movies, behind-the-scene features, as well a number of recorded, live streaming scenes (including panels) straight from the Comic-Con convention.

Sign up for a beta access at Comic-ConHQ.com.  Comic-Con HQ will go live on May 7 and be free until July 25.  Afterwards, you may subscribe for a fee (pricing is yet to be determined).

http://www.sdentertainer.com/entertainment-events/wondercon-2016/

[click to enlarge pictures]

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Upcoming Movies: July 2016

[Originally published on 6/26/16]

July 1
"The BFG" (http://movies.disney.com/the-bfg) - A girl encounters the Big Friendly Giant who, despite his intimidating appearance, turns out to be a kindhearted soul who is considered an outcast by the other giants because, unlike them, he refuses to eat children.

"The Legend of Tarzan" (http://legendoftarzan.com/) - Tarzan, having acclimated to life in London, is called back to his former home in the jungle to investigate the activities at a mining encampment.

"One Kind of Traitor" - A couple find themselves lured into a Russian oligarch's plans to defect are soon positioned between the Russian Mafia and the British Secret Service, neither of whom they can trust.

July 8
"The Secret Life of Pets" (http://www.thesecretlifeofpets.com/) - Taking place in a Manhattan apartment building, Max's life as a favorite pet is turned upside down, when his owner brings home a sloppy mongrel. They have to put their quarrels behind when they find out that an adorable white bunny is building an army of lost pets determined to take revenge.

"Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates" (http://www.foxmovies.com/movies/mike-and-dave-need-wedding-dates) - Two brothers place an online ad to find dates for a wedding and the ad goes viral.

July 15
"Ghostbusters" (http://www.ghostbusters.com/ghostbusters-2016/) - 30 years after Ghostbusters took the world by storm, the beloved franchise makes its long-awaited return.

July 22
"Star Trek: Beyond" (http://www.startrekmovie.com/) - The USS Enterprise crew explores the furthest reaches of uncharted space, where they encounter a mysterious new enemy who puts them and everything the Federation stands for to the test.

"Ice Age: Collision Course" (http://www.iceagemovies.com) - Scrat's epic pursuit of his elusive acorn catapults him outside of Earth, where he accidentally sets off a series of cosmic events that transform and threaten the planet. To save themselves from peril, Manny, Sid, Diego, and the rest of the herd leave their home and embark on a quest full of thrills and spills, highs and lows, laughter and adventure while traveling to exotic new lands and encountering a host of colorful new characters.

July 29
"Jason Bourne" (http://www.jasonbournemovie.com/) - Jason Bourne, now remembering who he truly is, tries to uncover hidden truths about his past.

"Equity" - A female senior investment banker is threatened by a financial scandal and must untangle a web of corruption.

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"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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