Wonder Woman (2017)

I am “Wonder Woman” hear me roar… and also help those who cannot help themselves!!!

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with DC Films, Atlas Entertainment, Cruel and Unusual Films, Tencent Pictures and Wanda Pictures present…

One of the most anticipated films for 2017 which also jump-started the summer blockbusters! Wonder Woman was in a precipice of either literally taking off the DC Extended Universe or letting it drag the company’s reputation further down together with its predecessors “Man of Steel”, “Suicide Squad” and “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice”. Since 2013, all these films have amassed above average earnings in the box-office but were all deemed failures in terms of their “delivery”!

In retrospect, the meant universe of these superheroes has been shouldered by Zack Snyder (300) after bequeathed by Warner Bros. blessing he took it upon himself to bring these icons into their respective pedestals and champion them for the movie viewing public. But unfortunately his vision didn’t seem to be on par with the fans albeit its revenue, it still fell short in the eyes and hearts of everyone…who cared!

Wonder Woman debuted in the comic books in All Star Comics No. 8 on October 1941 whereas her alter-ego Diana Prince had a slightly different origin backing her story since January 1942 from Sensation Comics No. 1. From the multi-faceted progenitor William Moulton Marston, a man of many talents being a psychologist, inventor, self-help author and a comic book writer – he had many ways to share his gifts and one of these are being a polygamist. The story tells of a husband and lover to two women, Elizabeth Holloway Marston his wife and college student turned assistant and live in partner Olive Byrne. While uncredited, artist Harry George Peter was also considered as her co-creator, they all have given attributes and flaws that make the “Princess of Themyscira” a well-loved phenomenon especially to women around the globe.

Moving forward, the Academy Award Winner Patty Jenkins (Monster) was brought in to help turn things around and made the best of what she can gather, amalgamating the history of the Amazon Demigoddess from William her creator, George Perez’s formative years with the character in the 1980’s, aspects from the New 52 reboot and even drawing inspiration from Richard Donner’s very own Superman.

Together with Geoff Johns DC Extended Universe and Films incumbent Chief Creative Officer which he oversees the actual framework in order to get their flagship up and running and for these superheroes to breathe life on the big screen. Formulating the screenplay with Zack is Jason Fuchs (Pan) and Allan Heinberg (Gilmore Girls) they were able to finally convince Warner Bros. and DC to make this film materialize from the get-go!

After auditioning Olga Kurylenko, Ѐlodie Yung and Gal Gadot (Triple 9) they have chosen the latter to be their “long legged” wonder (as preferred by the Director). Upon release of her casting many critics defied her looks to add was her ability to act. Nevertheless, many believed that Gal will do “justice” to the given character and so far proven her detractors on the uptake that they were wrong. She was able to convince most people that a female led superhero gig is worth watching with the same edge of your seat entertainment, action, romance, plot, CGI effects and dialogue…

It was surreal that they were able to get Connie Nielsen (Gladiator) and Robin Wright (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo) as mentors for the young Gal’s character. Both have very strong reputation in terms of interpreting their roles even to their previous ones. Nicole Kidman was one of the few to be offered Hyppolyta the Queen of the Amazons but it was all the same to Connie for making the character as tangible as a mother to her child and being a symbol of freedom and lead her people out of prejudice. Her General and sister Antiope was regarded as the “greatest warrior of all time” part as a villain in canon and now as Aunt and trainer for Diana believing in her abilities and her passion to help those in need has made her susceptible for her niece’s safety…

What is a film without antagonists? Even love stories and comedies have a bedevilled cast member may it be disturbing stalkers to high profiled power mongerers. Enter Danny Huston (30 Days of Night) plus her sidekick Elena Anaya (In the Land of Women) they portray General Erich Lunderdorff and Isabel Maru aka Doctor Poison respectively. Winning the war is one thing but killing as many people as you could without regard for humanity is another issue altogether. Danny has become a household name for his villainous roles inclusive of these are: vampire leader Marlow from “30 Days of Night”; embittered and angry soldier Col. William Stryker from “X-Men Origins: Wolverine”; paramour and self-sustaining British High Commissioner Sandy Woodrow from “The Constant Gardener” to name a few.

His endeavor to make war does not conform eventually with his character’s standpoint however it does emanate from each and every one of us that that we are all capable of chaos and destruction. He has limitations and this is where he gains Isabel’s wrought deformity both inside and out. She compliments him with the eagerness to push through with humanity’s extermination so that they can rule of whatever is left to torment.

But David Thewlis (Anonymous) is a different kind of monster; he’s a real piece of work! He is Ares the “God of War”, son of Zeus and brother to Diana. Between the lines of propagating a “black propaganda” making the armistice fish bait for all involved countries, this is where he likes to ploy his plans whispering and influencing mankind to feel weak of being used so that he can consume all their hate and suffering…guten appetit!

I have to admit getting Chris Pine (Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit) to portray Steve Trevor was right off the bat! Everyone was speculating him for play Barry Allen “The Flash” or Hal Jordan “Green Lantern” but still contented. He is an American pilot and a spy being allied to the British government! Steve does the job but maybe through writing or on how he resonate as Steve in the big picture gives the “boyfriend” of sorts the witty bantering, comedic retort and the sober soldier who needs to fulfill his duties.

Speaking of which, this is where the gang comes in Sameer played by Saïd Taghmaoui (Vantage Point), a French Moroccan field agent; Eugene Brave Rock (The Revenant) as Chief Napi belonging to the Blackfoot Native American tribe and the “sharp shooting” drunkard Charlie portrayed by Ewen Bremner (16 Years of Alcohol).

With all due respect to the actors especially the first and the latter, this has been one of the most boring and pathetic supporting casts. I really don’t know if it’s the way they were written since there is much incoherence on how they act the part as soldiers. For one they lack resources, a sniper who does not shoot anyone, the supposed “Black Hawk” pilot has become known for his flamboyant stories and flirting with women and lastly, when someone told the Director to have “more creative control” it was either she has not researched enough for the demi-god “Apache” who can be given reference to one of the members of the “Superfriends” aka 1980’s Justice League or he helps fight and save the world by just leading the way to enemy territory, absolutely ridiculous considering that it can be understandable that Wonder Woman will save the day well at least 95 percent of it. The rest are for the boys to work on.

It was fascinating at best, Gal’s breakout role came through and her acting has improved enough to see her genuine kindness, naïve and gullible at the same time. But also with a heart that is destined to bring peace and order no matter the costs. While Patty made another “monster” hit in her own beautiful way!

Ghost in the Shell (2017)

Visually aesthetic and mind-blowing “screenplay” which can send you back to the past! #atmwatchingGITS1995

Paramount Pictures in association with DreamWorks Pictures, Reliance Entertainment, Arad Productions, Shanghai Film Group and Huahua Media present…

A “woman” in a stretcher is being delivered for a transplant but what we see is not an ordinary procedure! “Hanka” personnel hasten for the operation to take place, the patient who is tagged “2571” will revolutionize the future of amalgamating robotics and augmentation of the human body. So it begins, as the brain carefully leaves her, a cyborg “shell” serves host linking her “ghost” inside the cyberbrain and for the first time “she” breathes…

We do identify the “ghost” on how does it affect the machine while nothing to do with the physical organ particularly the brain, the essence or “consciousness” of a person is still intact somehow with its new prosthetic body. Directed by Rupert Sanders (Snow White and The Huntsman) and produced by Avi Arad and Steven Paul. Based on the best-selling manga created by artist Shirow Masamune in 1989, it follows the story of a dystopic future where humans and machine share a thin line of co-existence. From here, Section 9 of the Japanese government a tactical cyber-enhanced unit composed of soldiers, police officers and forensic scientists functioning under full discretion on counter-cyberterrorism, black-ops, special operations, and cyber-warfare.

I have been an avid fan of the anime series and the films but how does Hollywood bring to life this cyberpunk world – will find out as we get along in the story. Frankly, I think that the premise was redundant and falls short on the potential of making this a great film. The world of GITS is so vast, writers can actually “deep dive” into the canon then provide a think tank in making an actual script work. First of all, they just copied the opening sequence to which we can identify a robot undergoes transcendence while “humanizing” it in a form of a “white” female human body even the music was not spared. To add another cliché, from GITS (1996) and GITS: Innocence (2004) in the prologue where the Major assassinates a foreign diplomat and for the latter anime film, Batou and Togusa handles the case of a murdered employee while finding out the disappearance of their leader through Batou’s eyes (figuratively). Although there were some changes made like a Hanka Robotics official being hacked and killed in the live action version on the other hand, LOCUS Solus was the gynoid (sex robot dolls) company that was being investigated in the anime in congruence with government’s Sector 6 as well.

The director together with his cohorts Jamie Moss (Street Kings), William Wheeler (The Hoax) and Ehren Kruger (The Ring) regarded as promising screenwriters has given the one of the most lethargic live action animes of all time. They just interchanged the plot lines from the previous films and we know it can be spectacular to see sequences that can pay homage to the work of director Mamoru Oshii but seriously, I could have just watched the original films instead if I knew this was the blasphemy waiting for me on the big screen!

On the bright side, near seamless cinematography was handled by Jess Hall together with Jan Roelfs acting as the film’s production designer. It was fascinating to see how they envisioned a futuristic Hong Kong particularly in Yau Ma Tei and Jordan districts, turning the cityscape into giant holographic billboards aptly coined “Solograms” (solid holograms) by the director. It was amazing how the amalgamated urban and local setting still gives precedence to what Japan actually looks like at the present while supplanting technological advancements on its streets, buildings and the inhabitants.

Together with the help of Moving Picture Company (MPC) and WETA Digital the director, VFX Supervisor Guillame Rocheron and effects pioneer John Dkystra worked on the actual structural backdrop from the anime film, providing more than 1000 shots from the creation of the cyborg to the courtyard fight scenes with the hacked garbage truck driver. Seeing how the visuals work make “Minority Report” advertisements in the tunnels and the city look like minuscule at best both in size and through its subliminal messaging.

Now we take on the crew starting with the main protagonist, Scarlett Johansson (Lucy) as field commander Major Motoko Kusanagi / Mira Killian, to be honest, the thespian is a hit and miss for me. I do regard her for the chosen projects like “Lost in Translation”, “The Nanny Diaries”, “Lucy”, “Sing” but her versatility cannot still save her from films that need to bring more the character on who she portrays. She’s got the Major’s swagger especially when she walks and on how she looks back over her shoulder. But like I said Scarlett can bring the character in the play but even her performance cannot save (nor Margot Robbie) a film with the sole purpose is to garner only sales.

Takeshi Kitano (Johnny Mnemonic) as Section 9 founder and Director Daisuke Aramaki is known for his earlier works in the field of comedy and later become known as “Beat”. His demeanor for work is contested, simply put he does have an indispensable unit not only to rely on to get the work done but he has faith in them and they trust each other no matter the cost. Usually, he has some security to protect him but not Takeshi who can put a bullet in your face if he really wants too.

Speaking of which, Pilou Asbæk (The Great Wall) as second in command Batou.  He is considered as the closest to the Major both professionally and personally. The actual one-two punch of Sector 9 literally, they have been considered having mutual affections but it did not apply on a congested premise especially with their line of work,  Pilou and Scarlett had collaborated already in the film “Lucy” back in 2014.

I was really glad the Singaporean thespian Chin Han (2012) is turning into marketable projects like his previous work with “The Dark Knight” and “Captain America: The Winter Soldier”. He plays Togusa one of my favorite characters, considered to be a “natural” and prefers to be one while having a repartee after his teammate Borma since he underwent another cyberization. He is quite prominent in handling investigations especially after he cracked the “Laughing Man” case and even made him led his own team.

The rest of the team which we see only for a few segments from Zimbabwe to New Zealand, Tawanda Manyimo (The Rover) portrays Borma the demolition specialist. Lasarus Ratuere (The Mule) as Carlos Ishikawa one of the supposed lead investigators who handle covert intelligence, tactical warfare, and data manipulation assignments, basically he is also a soldier for JSDF (Japan Special Defence Force) having served with the Major and Batou as depicted in the series.

Yutaka Izumihara (The Great Raid) as Saito the marksman, a sniper who was just used at the last moment. His design is by far the most grotesque looking and lazy. His eyes actually are uplinked in a satellite called the “Hawkeye” to give him the precision shooting he requires but it still can be hacked. But where is Pazu the former Yakuza? Turns out He was replaced by Ladriya the weapons specialist she is portrayed by newcomer Danusia Samal (Boom) so like I’ve mentioned earlier, these characters were used only to depict the team nothing more to show for (what a loss).

The quasi villain of the story, Michael Carmen Pitt (I Origins) as Kuze / Hideo, regarded a revolutionist, terrorist and a member of the anti-augmentation rebellion. Juveniles that were captured by Hanka enforcers only to be made as test subjects to what they were fighting against. He was actually a significant character of the 2^nd GIG tv series plus the GITS film titled the “Individual Eleven” same modus operandi but on a different setting. To be honest, Michael was not given a chance to act the part with emphasis on having a short running time for the film, more so the screenplay was not able to convey the actual emotions the two lovers had when they were “biologically” capable.

Peter Ferdinando (Hyena) as Cutter the CEO for Hanka Robotics, the man hides a clandestine purpose, not even his clear intentions of providing the country the means to persevere life with the business he’s running, how ironic what abominations he will bring to this world with science and technology. He is clear with his intentions, straight to the point and let others know that he is untouchable since the government supports his program. While Juliette Binoche (Godzilla)as Dr. Ouelet, she is not only the scientist who oversees Mira’s evolution despite her obligations to Cutter and her work, in the end, she knows that every human being deserves to be respected and to be free.

Certain aspects of how the film was reciprocated by the public and critics alike panning on the premise relegated to the main protagonist’s background and how she copes life after being transferred to a cyborg body. It seems that she was more focused on her personal roots when was she born? Who were her parents? Where did she live? Giving emphasis on her déjà vu moments where bits and pieces of her previous life are being recollected. Unlike from the manga, films, and series she embraced who she was but noting something of significance was her time with Kuze in the hospital where they both shared loss, anonymity, love and paper cranes.

In closing, the whitewashing predicament hasn’t helped Hollywood based companies producing films that only concerns with one “race” and that is to be on top of the box office sales. Humans driven by greed and lust for power seek always any means necessary to explore knowledge then exploit it first with those who are not deemed “fit to survive” until we evolve into something more “godlike”. That’s probably the nexus point here maybe we can learn from it for either we fight for the future or be their “puppets”.

Skyfall (2012)

“Though much is taken, much abodes, and though we are not  now that strength which in old days moved Earth and Heaven, that which we are, we are…one equal temper of heroic hearts, made weak by time and fate, but strong in will to strive, to seek, to find and not to yield.” – Ulysses

Metro-Goldwyn- Mayer, Columbia Pictures in association with Eon Productions and Danjac LLC present…

After a incredible and tiring month last October, me and my beautiful wife head off to our well spent vacation to relax and unwind! Here, we continue to what has been a trend of sorts since the first time I’ve watched Daniel Craig portray the Spy of all Spies back in 2006’s “considerably” Casino Royale! Then before setting sail to another country I was still able to experience the burning sequel of Quantum of Solace in 2008 and so far it’s worth the wait…

From being an Assistant Director to front line Producer of her father’s magna opus, Barbara Broccoli (Goldeneye) and her half-brother Michael G. Wilson (A View to a Kill) never gave up on this project in spite of financial difficulties you might say even when the “sky was falling”, they were still able to salvage the film at all cost!

This is the end…

A covert mission, a train of death, a missed gunshot and a man falls! To kick start the 50^th Anniversary of James Bond, London premiered it as one of the highest grossing films to date and it will be a bloody hell when Bond get’s out of this!

Directed by Sam Mendes (Revolutionary Road) they made this film absolutely in a new direction seeking to find the reasons why Mr. Bond is more than a spy to his organization and to his country. It was not meant to relegate the essence of the film’s action but rather see another perspective what real danger awaits for those who works in these clandestine agencies. As he works on his takes with the silhouettes, mixing darkness with electric lights while never failing to inject charisma and passion which definitely makes Bond the top of the spy genre both in films and novels alike!

Full time MI6 Director and surrogate Mother Judi Dench (A Midsummer Night’s Dream) portrays M in a crucial role that will literally shake the Agency which she has lead for so many years! Hunted down by still an unknown enemy though grave as it may sound, she still got his closest ally in the business…his undying, always resurrecting son!

The premise was definitely not mission centric and what made it more interesting is that he faces a far more threat outside their walls but only this time it was within MI6! With the help of Screenwriter Neal Purvis (Johnny English), Robert Wade (Stoned) and John Logan (The Aviator) they have collaborated to bring the 23^rd film come to life both figuratively and literally!

Editing chores were made flawlessly by Stuart Baird (Vantage Point) from sound, amalgamation of action sequences and a combination of special and visual effects. Cinematography by Roger Deakins (Revolutionary Road) made it clear that not only does locations bring the story to come to life but how he brings each continent and country to capture moments of Bond’s escapades let’s just say to fall in the right place! From India (not pushed through), Istanbul, London and to Shanghai and an abandoned island off the coast of Macau. Adding the very talented and multi-awarded singer Adele to provide her sultry and alluring voice to capture the film’s premise gives meaning through reckless abandon and yet with a strong disposition to do whatever it takes to seize the day in spite the tragic situations.

Mr. Swagger himself, Daniel Craig (Defiance) continues his never ending fight for Britain and for the world’s safety. But for the mean time he needs to take care of business and this time it’s personal! Daniel was more comfortable with the role making him more dangerous and unpredictable for his character.

While after being whipped by a certain wizard to his seemingly eternal imprisonment, Ralph Fiennes (The Constant Gardener) as Gareth Mallory, to make it significant but not too obvious that he will have to leave office after what he has done! Absolutely better than his brother Joseph (no offense he’s good)! But Ralph exceeds what is expected of him not just in terms of performance but of choosing the right projects that will make him more enticing to the movie masses. On the same note, we commend one of today’s sought out actors as Javier Bardem (Biutiful) as Tiago Rodriguez a.k.a Raoul Silva, he portrays cyberterrorist, a character that makes you laugh and throw up at the same time (go figure it out)! Javier is a nonchalant super spy until something gave him a sort of epiphany. Just to make it clear that he has the utmost right to be able to protect himself first before protecting his country it was just unfortunate that it was like the case of a “Schrodinger’s Cat” where

What is a Bond film without his women? After a botched field work, Eve Moneypenny played by Naomie Harris (Street Kings) has been sidelined to a desk job just to get her mojo going again! To be honest she only has a role intended to fill-in a gap of need to give at least this pivotal character she was intended to play especially in the coming years ahead! While a former sex slave named Severine taken in by the villain was merely for eye candy she is played by Berenice Marlohe at least she had some acting in her that can convince other Producers that she can be part of something less inconvenient than a woman’s sob story longing for a hero to sweep off her feet.

It would seem farfetched, but I can’t help but compare the similarities of the premise with the Dark Knight Trilogy. A hero and a villain with the same background, roots and training while having a mentor or ally being haunted by guilt from their past sins and hunted down to pay their debts to society. The house of pain, the Butler until the end, the rich kid traumatized by a death in his family leading to become an orphan at a young age. Another angle we can look into is how a man got his face disfigured by his faith and with his disposition to uphold what needs to be done right unfortunately, serving their fate to be tragic and a lost cause! Finally, someone who seemingly died was brought back to life just to accomplish his mission no matter the cost…

 It was a personal one indeed, as it gave James Bond and the film a fantastic turn of events, convened to be a thriller that has given 007 a definite ending, a new chapter to be precise, a beginning of sorts as batons were passed on to carry the mantle as MI6 moves on while the earth crumbles, the oceans dries up or even if the sky falls…

Quantum of Solace (2008)

Casino Royale delivered the aces! Now, this is where Bond had left off and things are about to get “stirred and shaken” literally!

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in association with Columbia Pictures, EON Productions and B22 present…

A Barbara Broccoli with Michael G. Wilson Production.

Swiss-German Director Marc Forster (Finding Neverland) gave the film another exceptional take on the Spy finding his way to stop a criminal clandestine group and avenging his first true love. Screenwriters Paul Haggis (Crash), Neal Purvis (The World is Not Enough) and Robert Wade (Die Another Day) provide another premise so full of energy and excitement! I admired how they were able to let the flow of the story connect the two films where it still incorporates details, names and locations dealt with Vesper Lynd the double crossing lover and Le Chiffre the primary antagonist from Casino Royale.

Outstanding captured moments from the revolving 5 axis crane camera while panning-in at the snake-like roads of Garda and Carrara Italy and as it becomes closer so does the intensity of revd-up Aston Martins cruising in the tunnels while Bond is being gunned down by the “organization” only known as Quantum. Absolutely breathtaking initiated in the well choreographed car chase scenes courtesy of Arm Driver Dean Bailey and Stunt Coordinator Gary Powell from intro to its cliff hanging demise!

This film had more action oriented scenes and the body count that goes along with it keeps getting higher and higher by the minute! To make the ambiance relevant, David Arnold’s music made it transcending from the boat chase up-tempo beats then soothing it down flawlessly in the next sequences. The project also had plenty of places to go and to explore wherein locations scouted for an ocular by the Director and Crew to give it a better sense of authenticity from the script and required settings, spanning from the festive tradition Palio horse race of Italy, to the damp and cold London, next we are taken to the humid streets of Haiti, sophisticated Austria and the extremely unbalanced lifestyle of Bolivia where the rich tramples on the poor and its minority!

To add, in your typical spy thriller or anything with a military plot attached to it, we usually get the computer encoded Time Frame, Location and its classification bleeping at the bottom of the screen at least here, we have unique fonts to take us into the different places as we follow the story.

Wounded from the last encounter, Jesper Christensen (The Interpreter) returns as Mr. White! He is making it harder for the MI6 to understand the threat they pose as an organisation, even mocking M and Bond in the interrogation process. As Quantum’s new “slave” Mathieu Almaric (Mesrine) plays Dominic Greene, another pawn in this cat and mouse game! A supposed Philanthropic Businessman who expresses his concerns with the environment and its preservation through his company The Greene Planet! He’s demeanor for being wickedly manipulative hides behind his clean propaganda, a front for his Superiors to let a deposed General rule the country once again! Mathieu can be soft spoken but makes up for his intentions for the greed he generates while his eyes glare in the moment of betrayal, aggravation or by making him feel insulted!

Returning as 007 Agent Daniel Craig (The Golden Compass). In this 22^nd film, Bond makes it personal giving in to the thrill of pursuing Agents, Assassins, Gun Men and Body Guards who still have no absolute idea who they are dealing with. He is constantly monitored by M, ignoring her often times for the killing spree he has been doing in taking out possible leads to their objective…

There was this particular scene when he follows and does surveillance for Mr. Greene in an Opera titled Tosca, he goes to the highest point to monitor all of those involved in the transaction presented by the “eager” businessman!  I liked the way how it was executed and seeing all these mocked up so-called “Illuminati” members get their head shots (metaphorically speaking) while they are simultaneously downloaded to MI6 HQ! To add, I believe that something significant about the involvement of the Canadian Government which will hopefully explained and given more detail in Skyfall!

Judi Dench (Goldeneye) again serves as his Superior M and as a “surrogate mother”! There is an unraveling inner conflict and at the same time mutual feelings about these two people. Both have commented in their respective performance and the only thing that matters with them is to trust each other no matter the cost! With new Bond Girls coming to the foray, Olga Kurylenko (Hitman) as Ex-Bolivian Agent Camille who has her own agenda in avenging her family and Gemma Anterton (The Disappearance of Alice Creed) is an ordinary girl with an extra-ordinary job! I asked myself what? Her screen name was Strawberry Fields how cute can you get? Is it just to flatter Bond or make it something less conspicuous bringing in the Spy to be reprimanded or suspended to say the least!

Returning cast Jeffrey Wright (Lady in the Water) as CIA Agent and “brother” Felix Leiter who works more intensively trying to uncover the secret plans of the Tierra Project being put in place while Giancarlo Giannini (Hannibal) reprises his role as veteran Agent Rene Mathis, suspected in working with the “terrorist” he was later pardoned and was given a luxurious haven as a gesture of apology from the British Government! He was the only one Bond can approach now seeing that he has been cut off from the Agency’s finances. Mathis brought in the epiphany for Bond to contemplate on just to remind him that all is forgiven between them and most of all, forgiving Vesper and himself in the process to move on with his life.

To encapsulate, the ideas being given deals with a bigger scenario that makes 007 work incessantly to bring down this corrupt organization that not only destroys lives but countries as well! The Director gave it the same powerful take in the missions and life of the British Secret Spy. On the other hand, in the earlier parts of the film were fast paced but got slower with cut up or shortened scenes as the story progresses. I still commend him for instilling the perfect environment for the characters to blend in; everything he injects from hotels, cars, boats and even propeller driven planes has their own persona that matches the world where James Bond carry out his duties, a little old fashioned but up to date!

As mentioned in the final scene when M wanted him back in the Agency, he promptly replied ”I never left…” this completes his trail for his vendetta and soon will be tackling another threat with the same group of people only known as Quantum!

Casino Royale (2006)

“The name’s Bond, James Bond!”

Columbia Pictures in association with Eon Productions, Casino Royale Productions, Stillking Films, Babelsberg Film and Government of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas present…

Ian Lancaster Fleming’s first book of the British Intelligence Agency’s most well known Agent, Spy, Soldier and Commander of the Naval Fleet! His character had many depictions and basis, the first one was an actual member of the Royal Navy’s Intelligence Division who worked with Mr. Fleming in World War II, his name was Merlin Minshall, another was Serbian double agent Dusko Popov, a charismatic womanizer and lastly, a real Jewish Russian secret agent named Sidney George Reilly employed in the British SIS. To add, his character’s name came from a real life Ornithologist in Philadelphia.

Casino Royale was the main catalyst of the forthcoming adventures of James Bond. Since it was published in April 13, 1953, it was adapted on screen three times and was written and finished in Jamaica. Mixing both real life experiences and the Author’s own imagination, he was able to bring to the UK and the rest of the world a truly remarkable fictional icon and hero!

Now with Barbara Broccoli’s supervision in all upcoming and remaining projects from his late father’s Albert R. Broccoli’s EON Productions, the daughter has been doing an overwhelming job multi-tasking from both ends of the floor while producing; she also acts as Second Unit Director in the field! Both of them have been involved in the films of the British super spy with the former starting off with Timothy Dalton’s “The Living Daylights” in 1987.

So it begins…

On his second mission, we are taken to Prague in Czech Republic. Bond was tracking down a double agent who was selling intelligence reports to make profit. The black and white ambiance gives it a more suspenseful take on the scene, even the dialogue that they did for just a few minutes with a non-linear take on his first kill was absolutely wicked. It was concise and crisp “considerably”… Thus, James Bond was now promoted to the status of “00”!

The actual battlefield is not your typical highway chase shoot them up style… here it is the Poker Table! Originally it was the card game Baccarat, it was changed to make it contemporary since it gave more reasons to relate to the fans and audiences alike. This game can tell you a lot on who’s playing and to think that it’s not only betting millions of dollars on table that makes you quiver…instead, it’s the world’s safety!! It was also segmented into three significant parts which I aptly named: 1. Bomber’s Away! ; 2. Death Poker and 3. Becoming Bond!

The latest 007, Daniel Craig (Layer Cake) was criticized heavily to be the next Bond especially with his facial attributes but they clearly underestimated his would be performance beforehand giving these unhealthy remarks, this film will absolutely put all doubters on the other side of the river! He gave a powerfully solid, straightforward and headstrong take on the Secret Agent, no more lingering too often with gadgets (it’s alright Q, you’ll be fine) which is very ideal since he relies more on his wits and physical stamina to chase the bad guys from one point into the next even putting in spectacular pursue scenes which involved the sport “free running”. This is the Bond that we are all waiting for shoot first ask questions later (give him the benefit of the doubt for being trigger happy).

The film was superbly done, with an amazing cast. The life of a spy, traveling around the world meeting beautiful women and surviving them was all in a day’s work for Mr. Bond. This story is really significant not only because it depicts his origins but also why he came to terms with having to “trust no one”. He fell in love with the leading lady Eva Green (Kingdom of Heaven) who plays the alluring Vesper Lynd, an ILO (International Liaison Officer) from the HM Treasury sent by M to aide Bond in his next assignment. Smart, strong willed and fatal even for the most dangerous man in the agency!

Together, they need to stop Mads Mikkelsen (King Arthur) is Le Chiffre, a terrorist financier, a genius bent on world domination (economically speaking); his portrayal of being the villain is fantastic! He needs to recuperate the money he owed from a brutal warlord Steven Obanno whom he met in Mbale, Uganda where his intention was to bet against the stock market in his favor by blowing up the largest prototype airplane in Miami! A remarkable actor that can play the bad guy anytime without throwing any punches and you’ll still hate him for his subtle and yet cruel simplicity! He is also backed up by an ominous organization coming from the mouth of Mr. White, played by Jesper Christensen (The Debt) another criminal in the dark, he always plays in the background of his so-called “clients”, we would see later on what his goals are and what its repercussions for Bond…

Supporting casts Jeffrey Wright (Syriana) as CIA Agent and close friend Felix Leiter since back in the early stories with Giancarlo Giannini (Man of Fire) as French local Agent Rene Mathis of the Duexieme Bureau. The only returning cast was Judi Dench (Notes of a Scandal) since Pierce Brosnan’s take in Goldeneye. She reprises her role as Bond’s superior M, the Head of the British Secret Service! Judy’s take and contribution to her character for the last 16 years has been very pleasant, she embodies M as a Superior sometimes cold and uncaring (the Author had his own experiences…) but with the guidance and demeanor of a mother figure.

Directed by Martin Campbell (The Mask of Zorro) who gave us a great film encompassing all the elements of a spy thriller! With the help of Screenwriter Neal Purvis, Robert Wade (Die Another Day) and Paul Haggis (Crash) the former two comes back from the same character with a different take and persona! They have both given a full range of authenticity and intrigue in the story! Kudos as well to Debbie McWilliams (Othello) for finding the best people to portray these characters, I seldom commend the Casting Head but this was remarkably, undeniably well thought of!

Former Sound Garden and Audioslave headman Chris Cornell is one of my favorite performer’s in the music industry! His collaboration with David Arnold to bring the sound of James Bond is truly ear candy. To add, this is the first time that the Bond film franchise chose a male lead coming from a long line of females laying down their voice to capture the fascinating and sophisticated computer generated theatrics of the film’s storyline and premise. This is one of the many films that provide an amazing opening, a synergy of seduction, thrills and excitement!

From the sun glazed Madagascar, to the beautiful beaches of the Bahamas and the classy and elegant Montenegro where the ensuing battle draws to a close! The sights and sceneries from these countries were in the eyes and hands of the brilliant Cinematographer Phil Meheux (Goldeneye), returning with the same projects collaborated with the Director, the direction of his camera provides the audience with fast paced action and the right amount of passion that makes the world of James Bond so impetuously invigorating!

The Lone Ranger (2013)

Hi-Yo White Spirit Horse take us away to the next reboot!

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures in association with Walt Disney Pictures, Jerry Bruckheimer Films, Infinitum Nihil and Blind Wink present…

I could still remember my Father promising me to watch the film but became too tired and went to sleep while my Mother and Auntie absconded me to the cinema to watch the 1981 film “The Legend of the Lone Ranger”. Although I have not fully understood what the film was all about, the sense of a masked man with his side kick hunting bad guys has inclined me to believe that there were heroes who will save the day (and return from the dead) no matter the cost!

The prologue was set in 1933 where a child in a cowboy suit enters a miniature museum in a circus, the curious fellow actually awakens a seeming mannequin who was actually a worn out American Comanche Indian whose life has turned to the worst while reminiscing his adventures with his partner in crime fighting, as he tells the young boy that he was really hungry and to”never take off the mask”…

The legend of the law man from the west originated from a radio series who was created by George W. Trendle and Fran Striker that eventually spawned tv series both in live action and in animated form, films and even in comic books which also went through a handful of publishers from Dell Comics, Gold Key Comics, Hemmet’s Journal and Topps Comics were working to get the theme right but Dynamite Entertainment changed all that even giving The Texas Ranger an Eisner Award nomination in 2007. From so many reincarnations, Director Gore Verbinski (The Mexican) who also from the same minds who brought us the Academy Award Winner “Rango” unfortunately overused plots and ran out of steam from the seeming potential summer blockbuster!

You can actually see and feel the director’s penchant for comedic bantering between the protagonists let alone the action sequences that actually involves a follow through predicament after the other. More so, with all the ruckus, how could anyone survive being thrown hundreds of meters from a runaway freight train?

The western genre has been on a lockdown with lazy stories that incorporates vigilantism, supernatural stigma, futuristic hypocrisy and absurd technological advancements where studios and writers should rather focus on actual premises that validates historical accounts, to the men and women who contributed to building communities into states through developing business and partnerships while instilling the political as well as social responsibilities which made Americans known to the world even in this unforgiving era.

For a lead actor who hides in the shadows of his “supposed” sidekick, Armie Hammer (The Social Network) as John Reid, a lawyer turned spiritually ambiguous “Kemosabe” also known as “wrong brother”, the actor reminds me so much of Jason Segel and Brendan Fraser who are underrated in terms of delivering real, genuine acting and the thing is, I don’t question their comedy but I can only just see them as one trick ponies!

Armie had only a few films under his belt and so far he had not shown any improvement with his acting let alone his good looks and stature in which he was able to land the part of playing Batman in an unfinished Justice League movie. Same goes with his current role but without any backbone to give some it a little more levity with the audience. As stated earlier, his comedy is subpar let alone his delivery of characters being portrayed because I can still recall that The Lone Ranger is a class act with nerves of steel unlike his nephew’s great grandson!

The ever evolving and unorthodox Johnny Depp (The Pirates of the Caribbean) is Tonto the “foolish one”! The reliable actor who actually the only reason I watched this film but tagging along with Armie gets his mojos sober who reminds me of dumb super heroes that has better associates like “The Green Hornet” who by the way has the same last name. Johnny has always been a box-office magnet especially in his projects with Tim Burton but it had the same effect with Gore which only brings into presumption that the Western films are dried out of ideas.

While jumping the on the band wagon, long time collaborator Helena Bonham Carter (The King’s Speech) keeps her close working ties with Johnny and adding to the cast is veteran actor Tom Wilkinson (Batman Begins) as rich man Latham Cole who were just there for support nothing more. At least William Fichtner (The Longest Yard) playing heartless, cold blooded villain Butch Cavendish put up more of a fight when it comes to delivering the goods.

From the start, the film had continuous delays in terms of ownership, lead casts finishing their respective projects and production problems in shooting. There was even a crew member who died while making it worse, chickenpox spread at one point. But not all were on a negative stand point, while traversing west side states, with Cinematographer Bojan Bazelli (The Sorcerer’s Apprentice), he was able to at least give the film’s epic landscapes with much definition and authenticity from Utah down to New Mexico (you can learn from here…I’m looking at you Jon Favreau).

With all the depravity and unfortunate circumstances it may have generally affected the viewing public’s interest in spite of tagging it with the hugely successful “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise along with the director and one of the main characters. It was complete in a sense of making it entertaining for the whole family but with all the ideas being thrown in to make it a constructive output, it deteriorated further with its typical proclivities of a western actioner while delving into clichéd plot of hijacking, locomotive train wrecks, quick draws and the appeal of no one is above the law with the exception of masked vigilantes (and people who wears dead birds on their heads and incite it as fashion statement).

In the end, it had funny moments courtesy of Johnny and that was it! There was no sense of direction on how to deliver the story, it was confusing and a lot of unnecessary segments that makes the predetermined film too long while adding insult was the cast (not all of them) who were not actually needed since it was all about the redemption and seeking justice aspect that clouded everyone even for the spirit that miraculously shows itself out of nowhere…

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011)

“The Law of Celestial Mechanics dictates that when two objects collide, there is always damage of a collateral nature.”

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Silver Pictures and Village Roadshow Pictures present…

From the continuing saga of the “World’s Greatest Detective” comes the sequel A Game of Shadows! Based on the popular works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the film was derived extensively from the story “The Final Problem” where the Author had to finally end the adventures of his fictional super sleuth and focus on his day job! Instead, with the public’s clamor and his mother’s strong advice…thankfully the game is still afoot!

One of British’s finest Directors is Guy Ritchie (Rock N Rolla) who makes a fantastic comeback not just for the characters but also in providing a well-written juxtaposed continuity! Guy gives it a bigger and better plot sending the “original” dynamic duo to save Monarchs and their countries from coercion to start a war! He maximizes his entire repertoire to give the audience all the amenities of action, comedy, drama and mystery! For the latter, not that much comparing from the first film but it helps to send the message across the border that someone with wealth, power and a whole new level of intelligence asserts himself to entangle the whole world in utter chaos!

Storytelling were given insight by both husband and wife Kieran (Paperman) and Michele Mulroney, they were able to set the tone to further access the life of the Detective also, to target specific the anti-thesis that elaborates the story in a grander scale! Mixing the right type of dialogue, the Writers were able to deliver the unsuspected “oxygen contraption” in the nick of time!

Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man) and Jude Law (Repomen) returns to the big screen from their 2009 blockbuster hit Sherlock Holmes! They reprise their roles as the eccentric Consulting Detective and the always loyal Dr. Watson. Their off-put chemistry seems to be the tagline for the story to be conceived only as “brotherly love” not to be detrimental; it works on a given layer (as long as it stays there!)

Robert makes his portrayal so easy, his wit and comedy never falls flat in delivery and to his overall performance! Another strong asset was his understanding of Baritsu, the self-defence martial arts captured in its best form from a camera’s point of view to the viewer! Jude on the other hand, has given the “side-kick” persona into the well received Doctor, inexplicably fascinated with Sherlock both as a partner in crime fighting and as a friend! On a side note, it comes to a point in time where one has to get married while the other will have so solve crimes on his own…or so it seems!

Professor James Moriarty, an enigmatic and ruthless criminal mastermind, a math genius and dubbed by Holmes as the “Napoleon of Crime”! He was born and raised with wealth which gave him the best education, derived from Scotland Yard’s own notorious criminal files, his name was Adam Worth and to another malicious Astronomer Simon Newcomb who likes to destroy other scientists’ reputation for his own benefit!

You would really despise Jared Harris (To the Ends of the Earth)as he is absolutely demented, he gives life to the “would be world conqueror” having spun the enormity of his web of diabolical proportions has made him “interested “ with his recent endeavors for the Detective’s mind to keep busy!

A little tit-for-tat with the thief for hire Irene Adler played by the always alluring Rachel McAdams (The Time Traveller’s Wife) which jumpstarted the premise and sets it in motion! Other supporting casts were extraordinary even for Stanley the Butler! Stephen Fry (V for Vendetta) is the aloof elder brother Mycroft Holmes, an indispensable chap from the British Government who Sherlock says has far more intellect than he is but rather being stagnant leaving his younger brother to always do the leg work while Moriarty’s ace assassin Col. Sebastian Moran played by Paul Anderson (A Lonely Place to Die) the best sniper in the British Army who served in Afghanistan and was given a dishonorable discharge which was not disclosed as of the moment!

The film was entertaining but got lesser approval ratings on its dragging back-story and escapades, which should have been focused on the “bigger fish to fry”! I can say it’s a let go seeing that there were instances that was not necessary to linger on; one example would be the lost brother segment and the gypsy encampment scenes! It had an intriguing start that gave emphasis on what was going on between countries on the verge of conflict and culminating it to a very profound, gasping for air ending!

From the original standpoint of the Author’s “Final Problem” narrative, it says that Holmes was attacked a few times which correspond to the movie’s sequences from the thugs getting beaten by Holmes, one of them was carrying a cosh or in modern times is called a nightstick and another was the cannon fired which brought down a wall and bricks which flung all over the place including to Holmes and Watson’s direction. The shoot out and mortar heavy scenes in the forest were amazing using slow motion capture to visualize the veracity of ballistics toring up trees and flesh makes the word “incoming” better suited to be left unsaid…and just run for your lives!

An inquiry or better yet a statement cannot be set aside seeing that both protagonists at the Switzerland Peace Summit were “dancing” together! Why would the Director and Writer’s imply on something that was not even mandated giving the film more speculation on the “bromance” of the two! Are they pouring more gasoline into the fire?

Cinematography was handled once more by French 1992 Academy Awards and BAFTA Winner Philippe Rousselot (The Big Fish) where he incorporates a hands down pivotal screen shots from Greenwich, London to Strasbourg, France that invigorates the senses while fan favorite 2008 Academy Award Winner Hans Zimmer (Batman Begins) brings in his usual bespoke sound combining the fancy saloon piano while giving it a “kick” through an upbeat tempo from the string section! Making it fast paced with a mystery being hefty on the background!

Recently, I concluded the two outstanding series of Sherlock on BBC TV which they have made it so seamlessly written and unique in its own way! Showing how Writers Mark Gatiss and Stephen Moffat pictured the powerful and moving climax of Moriarty and Holmes in the episode “The Reichenbach Falls” while Director Guy Ritchie version made it direct and personal coming from the original work.

It got me applauding even when a chess game being played suddenly been inclined into a verbal stand-off while preparing for the inevitable “physical prowess” between the rivalry of the greatest minds on the planet! I didn’t realize how they would be able to encapsulate the fight scenes with so much detail and excitement which makes it so palpable!

Garnering more than $440 million worldwide is a genuine feat to accomplish seeing that it presents a certified blockbuster coming from the recent winter holidays! After this, there were two significant stories that culminate the pre and post hiatus of Sherlock Holmes death which should be tackled in the coming sequels… a Hound and an Empty House wouldn’t you agree?

 

Sherlock Holmes (2009)

“Never theorize before you have data. Invariably, you end up twisting facts to suit theories, instead of theories to suit facts.”

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Silver Pictures and Village Roadshow Pictures present…

Based on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s work on what transpired to be as the “World’s Greatest Detective”! Eccentric, true! Unconventional, absolutely! But most of all, one of the brilliant minds of his time! His character was given birth coming from idle days at the Author’s clinic located at Portsmouth, while waiting for customers; he would scribe his creation’s adventures and misadventures to pass the time!

His mentor from the university Joseph Bell was the progenitor, the image which Sir Arthur was trying to emulate for his new found hobby, having the same demeanor for intuition, deduction and inference and thus Sherlock Holmes was born to solve mysteries and fight crime as a Consulting Detective!

Running as if there was no tomorrow, Sherlock’s fleeting feet moves ahead from the Scotland Yard Police with two stern faced individuals who shows utmost concern on what they are up against! Yes, Sherlock Holmes is on the case! He needs to prevent a cult leader and practitioner of the paranormal from taking another victim but there is more to this mere supernatural forces alone…

Always full of energy, wit, courage and determination Sherlock Holmes is brought to life by Robert Downey Jr. (Zodiac) his portrayal could not have been taken better by another actor, he is passionate with his work  more so to his objective as a performer to his audience!  While the fast paced movements compliments the slow motion capture of “kicking ass 101” applying Baritsu to a given number of opponents, Robert’s fantastic display of choreography and understanding of the art has made these scenes flagrant and unforgettable!

His partner in “crime solving” is Dr. John Watson a former soldier who served in Afghanistan has made so much testimony for his roommate, friend and brother at arms! Jude Law (Contagion) provides not just bantering humor with his colleague but also pieces of advice and at times reprimanding for his unusual lifestyle!

Full of spectacular fight scenes and funny moments not just from the two protagonists but through the escapades they go to and the anonymities they need to solve before everything is too late! Having said, the performances of these two main protagonists were exceptional seeing that how someone like Holmes coming from his Bohemian lifestyle, vagrant and absurd has been changed into society’s respectable (almost) figures and this is thanks to the Doctor who seem undeterred to find a way (die trying) to at least sway the sleuth from living like a tramp and to add, avoid him from further experimenting on their dog!

No denying that he is one of the most sought out actors of this generation specifically playing the villainy of every hero, thwarting their efforts to seize the day until they all crash down to his will. Mark Strong (Robin Hood) does so impeccably his heinous crimes using both intellect and the dark arts of demonic rituals.

A thief, a friend and a lover Irene Adler is portrayed by Rachel McAdams (The Notebook) she has a penchant for stealing things even the heart of the Detective which makes him absolutely fascinated or even more, enamored by the young lass! Rachel exudes charisma, style and wit while trying to be a sincere while still acts as a double agent for a very influential figure.

The set-up in terms of timeline was very adequate, precise and concomitant from attire, manners not being flumped up in a narrowed down studio where a specific shot is just taken over and over again from the same stage. Even the Tower Bridge scenes were fantastic. Academy Award and BAFTA Winner Cinematographer Philippe Rousselot (The Tailor of Panama) has proven yet again to provide the audience sweeping scenes of the era while making it more appealing through seamless shots of old London!

It may seem farfetched seeing that it still did not contend to be the highest grossing films in the domestic front but it sure was a blockbuster in the box office upon reaching international shores reaching $524 million in its worldwide receipts. Surely a sequel is in waiting or rather someone is still not finished playing “games” with the Detective unless proven he is far better having the greatest mind in the world…or so it would seem!

Batman: Assault on Arkham (2014)

Riddle me this: “Who survives a suicide mission?” Answer: No need, since you’re dead!

Warner Bros. Animation in association with DC Entertainment and Warner Home Video present…

Directed by Jay Oliva (Batman: The Dark Knight Returns Part 1 and 2) and together with Ethan Spaulding (The Legend of Korra), they provided another action thriller that will blow your mind as it revolves around a group of super villains turned into anti heroes being forcefully abducted, taken from prison and recruited to do the government’s bidding for high stake missions where no one is guaranteed to come back alive!

Unlike the previous films being developed through comic book adaptations, this one is set on the Batman: Arkham video game franchise which has more fulfillment in terms of a diversified genre being used to approach the dark knight’s universe as a whole and making it reach out to a whole new fan base for DC Comic’s plethora of adventures!

Leading the charge is Amanda Waller with the voice of returning alumni C.C.H Pounder (Face/Off) from the Justice League animated TV series. She serves as their liaison officer, a warden of sorts in the playing field which is why she is called “The Wall” since nobody gets out of her jurisdiction! After a mishap with a black ops unit to get the nuisance Riddler played by Matthew Gray Gubler (All-Star Superman) now,  Amanda is forced to activate her “most valuable assets”…whether they like it or not!

The primary operatives who have done their missions before are: Neal McDonough (RED 2) belongs to another set of inductees from both sides of the fence of the industry as he plays the main man, the self-appointed no non-sense team leader Deadshot, he does the job as long as he doesn’t get screwed up by his employers or there will be a definite reckoning and he will not miss those who have wronged him! While rounding off his team mates are Hynden Walch (Groundhog Day) as the crazy Harley Quinn who loves her “Puddin” but can’t resist getting her hands on another cake, gives a another angle to the story as she guides the team inside Arkham while getting close to her real intended personal goals! Greg Ellis (The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug) who is known for his voice over work for television, films and video games such as “Dragon Age” and “Resistance” is Captain Boomerang a native of Australia who became a member of the infamous “Rogues”, a group of super criminals out to destroy their nemesis the Flash! His part gives him more susceptibility with the former two comrades at arms oftentimes seen bunting heads with Floyd Lawton out of jealousy of taking lead or just because he is second rate in terms of hitting the intended targets!

First time agents being arrested are given to the following: Giancarlo Esposito (Doing Hard Time) an award winning actor for his accomplishments in a role from the television series “Breaking Bad”, his character portrayal of the Black Spider was quite uninteresting not because of the actor’s performance but rather the essence of what makes the murderer of drug dealers has imprinted so far in his career as a Batman’s villain.

While John DiMaggio (Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust) is best known for his works in “Futurama” playing the drunkard robot Bender while providing voice work from other animated studios, he is King Shark, the big brawn of the group who has a penchant for bathing in blood, will do anything for his superiors but with the exception of high places since he has acrophobia! Last but not the least is Jennifer Hale (In the Line of Duty: Manhunt in Arkansas), another thespian who lends her talent in video gaming and was hailed as 2013’s Guinness Book of World Records as the “most prolific voice actor”! Always has a cold heart that is why she was given another mission to perform, she can be loyal to anyone but everything has a price! It seemed easy for them to get in but they will have to set aside their differences and animosity with one another in order to get the job done as the saying goes “keep your friends close but keep your enemies closer!”.

In retrospect, we only covered the main team and leaving him out in the open would be criminal! Troy Baker (Impostor) is the very rarely beleaguered Joker, while being incarcerated in the “Mad House”, his role serves more purpose on the back end of the plot leaving everyone gasping for air! While his mimicry for the all time great Mark Hamill in voicing the “Prince of Crime” is uncanny and I would not have it any other way! His version here is also tweaked to be more of a capable fighter unlike his former representation in all forms of medium!  Speaking of the “greats” Kevin Conroy (I Know the Voice) reprises his role as the big bad bat! Following the apprehension of Edward Nygma, he takes on the squad in uncharted territory (yeah right) to expose truths and find a way to stop the City of Gotham to turn into a “dirty” place to live in!

Straight from the shelves, the direct to dvd has garnered so far over $4.6 million dollars in the last six months just to whet the appetite of diehard fan boys (not from all ages) and enthusiasts from both the gaming community, film buffs and the comic book readers! Although many would prefer including me to let the actual product be made as the catalyst for the given project. I was hoping the “Suicide Squad” or “Task Force X” be able to stand for itself while placing “Assault on Arkham” as its secondary title! Marketing can be a little stringent when it comes to promoting such films since you would have to consider the one name that can bring in the money for your company and in this case it is Batman!

Nevertheless, it was really fun to watch even with a whole of criminals running loose in the foray; they were still able to inject a whole lot of primary super villains in the process to instigate more of the chaos! With these animated features, DC Comics and Warner Bros. can still push the envelope when it comes to covering a lot more ground with their characters, creative and insightful to say the least knowing that these direction leads to better understanding and appreciation from the audience while taking phase and become a fruition for their upcoming live action film coming 2016!

Until the next suicide mission…

Godzilla (2014)

A revisiting of a “force of nature” with tactful revisions, a faithful and sober casts that makes it a certified “monster hit”!

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Toho and Legendary Pictures present…

Godzilla was first introduced to the public in 1954 by Toho Co. Ltd from Director Ishirō Honda. Its name “Gojira” is actually a portmanteau of a “gorilla” and a “whale” resembling both its massive power and water origins. Since then, the “King of Monsters” became a worldwide phenomenon, a pop culture icon and has served as humanity’s bane for our destructive ways and the use of nuclear weapons while over the years giving it a transition to serve us our protector in reminding us to respect the environment and all forms of life!

Director Gareth Edwards (Monsters) finds familiar territory with the creature knowing it is served the best possible interpretation by being based on Japan’s own primordial beginnings! Screenplay were brought to us by Max Boerenstein (Swordswallowers and Thin Men) with the help of David Callaham (Doom), David Goyer (Batman Begins), Drew Pearce (Iron Man 3) and Frank Darabont (The Mist). Dialogue was pretty straight to the point giving hints on “will you still be here tomorrow?” or “its not the end of the world” as it gave an awful fan service stigma!

The film had mixed responses from the viewing public seeing that enough was given praise to Bryan Cranston (Drive) portrays lonely and lost Joe Brody for his emotional representation of a man who lost his ill-fated wife Juliette Binoche (A Thousand Times Good  Night) from a tragic occurrence and the worst part was he was considered mentally unstable due to his depression and to think that the government won’t even hear out his plea on the given situation that killed thousands of lives in the process.

Joe and Ford Brody was very instrumental to the premise of the film although it was short lived and somewhat shallow, it is their relationship, the loss of somebody and fear of losing others that made in finding the truth and continuing the fight for survival be relevant to unearthing the story of the  monster which is Godzilla! (and friends) On the other hand, in spite of the given performance, the other cast members seemed underwhelmed or might just even find these scenarios of a monolithic monster a fraud or too afraid to realize the severity of the situation.

Speaking of which, with Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Nowhere Boy) and Elizabeth Olsen (Oldboy) plays husband and wife Ford and Elle Brody. This is their second time that they have worked together with “Avengers: Age of Ultron” was just recently released. The on-screen couple was not realistic nor was their influence of being “actually” terrified on what’s going on around them a bit mediocre. Assuming that they just played the role or there was really no chemistry. Contrasting to what we adhere for these characters realized by being humans, of course all of us wants to see the main protagonist to stomp the living daylights of these M.U.T.O.’s (Massive Unidentified Terrestrial Organism) but there is a huge difference in playing the part than just saying the lines! (and making those ambivalent facial expressions)

Yes, the next topic is about a little bit more about science and frankly my dear it does not go too well!  Thespians Ken Watanabe (Inception) and Sally Hawkins (Never Let Me Go) had to go briefly from one scene to another just to compensate the trails of destruction, serving most of the time with foreign locations like the Philippines, Japan, Hawaii, Nevada and San Francisco with the collective initiative of “Project Monarch” who are tasked to investigate these monsters led by Rear Admiral William Stenz portrayed by David Strathairn (The Bourne Ultimatum) who is composed, determined and we still see watching over a multitude of screens but the only difference is he’s no longer hunting for a “rogue agent”. The former two described as actual experts Dr. Ishiro Serizawa and Dr. Vivienne Graham respectively, scientists who did most of their time conducting observations, helping try to nullify the beast while misdirecting the world’s governments and media about the “terrifying force of nature”.

Fans would love to look for easter eggs and there was a few going on when the father and son came back at Jinjira’s quarantined zone. There were insects crawling all over the place, a toy tank and even a nod for Godzilla’s one time nemesis turned ally “Mothra” seen in an aquarium containing a chrysalis and a description at the bottom side while other scenes suggest of what things to come including windows being used to impend flying giants hovering over the city.

To add, the Godzilla design was coherent and looks very much the same from the first film from how it stands, fighting like a bear and moving like a komodo dragon. It got me into a second viewing just to really experience the story and for both the casts and the “king of monsters” play out their respective parts to synergize everything. Sure it was given only enough screen time but it was worth seeing all its dramatic entrance and how it battles these large abominations while giving them the “whip it” and “eat this” one two punch was visceral, precise and a definite killer blow to let it be the last monster standing!

It was definitely a hundred times better than the last representation in terms of story, characters (well they were more ecstatic) than what they have here, plot and directing! This outing was truer in form and how the “big guy” gives meaning to mankind’s nature, would there be any resort? a compromise in order for us to understand Godzilla better knowing that it bears the scars of the past nuclear tests, its ramifications and how it reflects to the term “survival of the fittest” since we are all considered to be “apex predators”. I can’t wait for the sequel and the other monsters that will challenge it in the coming years but for now it needs to rest for the next fight!