X-Men: First Class (2011)

School is in session! Just don’t expect your usual classmates…

Donner’s Company in association with Dune Entertainment, Bad Hat Harry and Marvel Studios present…

From the minds of Marvel comics finest, comes The X-Men! Written by Stan “The Man” Lee and Artist Jack Kirby, the first of their kind “homo superiors” banded together by Professor Charles Xavier in Westchester, New York. These individuals have gifts that can forever change the course of history, for them to survive they must protect those who fears them!

Directed by well received Matthew Vaughn (Kick-Ass) and produced by Bad Hat Harry a company of the first Director of these pivotal series, Bryan Singer who also co-wrote the film’s moving story.

The birth of the greatest friendship and rivalry in Marvel Comics, it is so one sided that there is no embargo committed to mettle with these two factions.

The year was 1962, Charles Francis Xavier is fast becoming the world’s first mutant expert, allied by his personal aide Raven they embark on a quest to understand more of this new manifestation that will unravel in the coming generations.

The pacing of the film was on par it gave precedence to how the mutant community comes into the world where even the same species lusts for control and power. Even becoming the third wheel with good intentions, the mutants are not given due for their actions and have even triggered more hatred. It is what they say everyone fears what is unknown.

Enough time was given for them to take action and counter the threat of a Nuclear War, Charles and Erik search the world to find their own, to help them fight the Hellfire Club lead by the malevolent Sebastian Shaw.

To comment on a few unmissable, applaudable and flawed moments, Michael Fassbender (300) made a remarkable performance and is now considered to be the next 007, his output of rage and sorrow reflects well and intended for the character of Magneto. For rising star James McAvoy (Wanted) shares the accolades with his best friend portraying the altruistic mentor of the X-Men as Professor X, always with friends and sharing his knowledge devout in his ways of making the next step for evolution of mankind be a fruition of a dream for the children of the atom.

I admired the way Kevin Bacon (Murder in the First) manipulates everyone and not even taking any scratch. Jason Flemyng had not much dialogue but still is fun to watch in every film he is in. Rose Byrne (Sunshine) adds more flavor as CIA Agent Moira McTaggert which should have been a scientist by the way.

Havok is one of the underrated mutants in the X-Men universe and is one of my all time favorites. His plasma waves can shatter a mountain side and even one time stopped the Hulk. But seriously, how can he be involved in this era of the film? As if was not bad enough putting the younger Summer’s sibling into the fold, at one instance was doing hoola hoops back there…

Now we know why she is called Mystique portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence (Joy), she’s flirting with disaster while having that brother-sister dynamic with Charles, she was actually hitting on Hank and Erik…

From the first film, Magneto was stopping bullets outside the train station, here he was stopping missiles and rockets and to think he was just starting to embrace his powers. On another hand, most considered was the appearance of the canuckle head and a certain white haired weather mutant was in the cameo.

For the rest, they are still new and will have to stay low in the spot light since I find it mediocre especially for the mutants Angel and Darwin who were never given justification even for just being part of the original class which is farfetched in my opinion. They were included in the books very recently in the storylines of the X-Universe that should have been given to better or more popular characters!

The score is more lively and intense and in my opinion far better than the first films. To add, the special effects can do only so much for integrating parts and pieces to make scenes workable in the deus ex-machina moments, the Russian Army parade, Beast’s transformation, flight and fight scenes from Angel and Banshee, crashing Lockheed jet in the island to name a few.

It was an engaging film still filled with emotional reverberations that makes Charles and Erik allies and foes, the schism that made them who they are and what they are destined to be in this mundane world we live in. Director Matthew Vaughn has made another must see film, remarkable indeed!

Bottom line, I did not even imagined that the first films were going to be that bad, I grew up with comic books as part of my recluse from this cynical world, even contesting that the X-Men were my means to be part of something better in my life.

Bryan Singer gave it a chance but still fell short only because of being too emotional based and not making it more standard on what the comic implies. The real world conceptualization was a total given and he made it really believable on how hatred, disparity, discrimination every individual, culture, minorities feel and that’s why conflict will never cease because we as humans do not really conceive what’s it like to be, what is termed as humanity and co-exist as one.

The film also depicts his clear understatement where it even gives more meaning on the words of Raven in the film “Mutant and Proud” which clearly adheres to modern society’s conundrum.

Absolve will be my final input for this review, if it was meant to be, if we are able to see and look through each other’s physical imperfections then we are to be free from this guilt let alone ask for forgiveness

The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)

Just like from other superhero films, they were adapted from the actual comic books but not all the time with key specific story lines and that’s how dynamic this is, it’s already comprehensible to many and yet unique in its own “amazing” way!

Columbia Pictures in association with Marvel Studios present…

From Marvel Comics very own flagship carrier, Spider-Man was created by Writer Stan “The Man” Lee and Artist Steve Ditko who debuted in Amazing Fantasy No. 15 on August of 1962. Adapted for a television series in the 80’s which became a cult phenomenon then jump starting it in the big screen from the years 2000 up to 2007 which grossed billions in the box office worldwide making it one of the successful comic book films in cinema history!

But that was just the beginning…

The British are coming!!! Embrace the inevitable! Superhero movie leading actors take a turn to bring these comic book characters to life in these live action films, for instance Christian Bale (Batman Begins) is of English descent, Henry Cavill (The Man of Steel) also dubbed the “unluckiest” Englishman in screen testing with the film finally coming in next year! With both portraying iconic superheroes from DC Comics, Marvel has their own ace up their sleeve and found their latest web slinger from the talent of Andrew Garfield (Never Let Me Go).

Definitely a reboot from Sam Raimi’s trilogy, it’s like turning off a PC and then when you switched it back on, there is already a new motherboard installed or something to that effect! But in this regard, it’s not the superhero with the mask that needs to be placed in the spotlight but rather who’s inside! The boy who was searching in the opening scene never got through playing hide and seek with his Dad, until one fateful day came something from the past has been unearthed and he never knew that this will affect significantly  his way of life, more importantly who he is?

Director Marc Webb (500 Days of Summer) sends everyone spinning in its melancholic web of the mundane teenager aptly named Peter Parker! Although it was CGI heavy, the film never lost touch of its intentions to stay close with the source material to infuse intellectual dialogue, backed-up by character driven performances and of course actual web shooters and not the internally biological spun-off webbing! They even had a name for it right now, “biocables” which is absolutely contemporary!

The different take on the film has made fans skeptical saying that it was too early for the franchise to be replaced or for the original cast to take the exit! The people in Marvel had so much enthusiasm for the fourth installment to take place but it was just unfortunate that Sam’s heart for the franchise has been left empty leaving a huge trunk space to fill-in! When Marc was chosen to helm the new face of the title hero, he welcomed it and took it as a challenge and the rest was history!

Produced once more by Laura Ziskin (The Accidental Hero) with Hollywood heavyweights Matt Tolmach (Coldblooded) President of Columbia Pictures and Marvel’s own CEO Avi Arad while the Story and Screenplay was researched by James Vanderbilt (The Rundown) that gave more precedence on the troubled boy’s life, let alone his awkward stature, being geeky and bullied in school! James went back even more from the time of his childhood wherein the parents play an essential part in Peter’s destiny…to become someone who not only needs to accept his responsibilities but to also honor it!

This is what just James was trying to send across, this is the “untold story” even critics and fanboys were bashing the given statement claiming that they already know who Spider-Man is, but frankly it’s not just to their own standpoint that should be addressed here, it’s a new story with the same elements but with a different direction and foundation on how it all started and frankly, it actually worked!

John Schhwartzman (Armageddon) the Director of Cinematography was able to clearly capture what was defined from how the actual city skyline get their fair share of the reel while instilling fantastic camera work on characters movement with the background using the Green Screen technology. He was able to incorporate detailed shots and angles which defines the right ambiance for the characters to move in.

Speaking of which, the FPS (First Person Shooter) and 3D shot scenes were complimentary to the wall crawler, something that has never done before in the CBM’s, it gives a diversified look on how the audience enjoy the cinema experience from Spider-Man’s eyes and point of view (literally). This was made possible by 3ality Technica, wherein they provided the actual cameras and sets to actually capture the world of Spider-Man without post converting it into 3D, the Director is applauded for his additional research! While the fight scenes were well-choreographed even mixing the right amount of real actors with CGI has made it breathtaking to watch! How Spider-Man climbs in the alleys, at the side of the slivered buildings, the way he swings through the city was drastically improved! His movements are way limber, acrobatic, agile and most of all spider like (which all fanboys can drool over)!

Andrew as Peter Parker gave the most relatable superhero in the big screen and it’s another reason why movie viewers need to see his portrayal! It was his own likeness that made him exceptionally remarkable, from the physical proportions of being thin and yet, with the right amount of muscle tone to at least look believable to hold his own against a 9 ft. “misunderstood” reptile who can easily rip you into two equal or unequal parts however he chooses!

 His mindset matches Peter’s perfectly as well, seeing how his asset can get him to places without any effort whatsoever. He has a genius level intellect like his father and for a boy his age being able to formulate the needed equation for the decay timeline was intended to give the audience something to ponder on. To add, also inventing these small contraptions were clearly instilled in the film, these were exceptional plus points since it was not conveyed thoroughly in Sam Raimi’s trilogy.

On the other hand (of the web slinger), his attitude has more aggression, rebellious and flamboyant especially with criminals and the police force! It was still set on the emotional standpoint of the troubled teenager faced with everyday challenges while growing up feeling alone compared to Tobey Maguire’s sentimentality who looked forlorn and sober sitting in his room most of the time.

Enter Gwen Stacy his first love was played by a blossoming actress Emma Stone (Easy A), their on and off camera chemistry has made it easier to let go of their feelings without any compromise, funny and heartfelt! While her father the predecessor to “James Jonah Jameson”, Capt. George Stacy played by Dennis Leary (Ice Age) patrolling the streets to make it as tightly secured and safe as possible his performance in “Rescue Me” TV series definitely made the transition in his acting versatility come into fruition (right Diego poo?).

A fractured soul inside a frustrated man, more so a scientist failing to cure the “weakness” of society has left him cornered in a wall and this will have devastating consequences! Rhys Ifans (Human Nature) is Dr. Curtis Connors the foremost “authority” in genetic engineering, gave the distraught villain to finally crawl out from the woodwork! His moment has come (to say the least) having been denied of his whims to unleash his gift to mankind he will make sure his claws are felt of whoever opposes him! Rhys underwent CGI motion capture to breathe life to the Lizard, his design and structure in cohesion with the digital effects by Sony Pictures Imageworks gave a uniquely humanized reptile’s dream to come true (how come the snout did not grow back?).

Acting was done genuinely and convincingly especially from the senior casts, Martin Sheen (The Departed) who portrays the surrogate Father and Uncle, Ben Parker and Sally Field (Mrs. Doubtfire) as Aunt May Parker who both gave a wonderful performance! Though some of it was quite cheesy but was worth it since a teenager centric premise was given as its background which holds the right kind of environment for our emotional hero to respond to his calling…to his responsibility!

The combining elements from the previous films like Director’s Ang Lee’s Hulk in 2003 was definitely transparent in the premise, seeing how the both fathers coming from the field of science has left a burnt mark in their sons genes which eventually made them who they are today (freaks of nature in a nice sort of way). Its influences like these help shape the cornerstone of the story, provided that it doesn’t tangle way too much hypersensitivity and by just getting the message through the audience plain and simple is enough! While references from the previous films were evident considering the enormity of the predicament being given a solution by the wall crawler. From the time the villain enters, creating mass chaos and for the citizens of New York helping our superhero to save the city and its residents was intently moving!

It was an essential start of the series that went deeper into Peter’s life and that is fundamental! This will actually help provide a bigger landscape to work through while focusing on key elements that will enable the production team and casts to cover in the sequels.

The downside, editing was not impressive even coming from two people Alan Edward Bell (The Rundown) and Pietro Scalia (Masked and Anonymous) who even worked with award winning films from Ridley Scott, you can cut off scenes but let it have a clear follow-through at least for a few seconds to let the audience know what’s going on and what’s actually happening and where did Dr. Connors got his tattered robe when he changed back to human form in the sewers?

To add, fan service moments were injected left and right like hanging from a raising cable crane after falling off from a failed “limping” 1000 meter dash on a building rooftop, the love story encapsulated in the comic books furthermore being the hero that he needs to be especially coming from a tragedy is way too given! While some people who will not be expected to return in the coming sequels have made their “black swan” worth remembering, it will help make the series move forward and get this film come into full circle!

Clearly, it was a drama induced themed, seeing that the hero’s journey begins but so many questions are still left unanswered which is quite normal but with purpose and that is to keep the next projects in check and in line! Like Peter’s parents gone missing and “reported” perished in an accident, where does the relationship of the high school lovers take them and for how long? And for the million dollar question, who did Dr. Connor’s spoke with in his ward cell at Beloit Psychiatric Hospital?

Spider-Man to some or most of you will know that he has a wide range of rogues gallery…not just because he can’t shut up his mouth while they are in a middle of a fisticuffs but rather all these years, it has been personal for them and they are “dying” to see the annoying arachnid splattered by their own hands…

So don’t tell Peter ok…let his spider-sense do the work!

 

Spider-Man 3 (2007)

Is this the end of Spider-Man?

Columbia Pictures with Laura Ziskin Productions in association with Marvel Studios present…

Based on Marvel Comics characters, Spider-Man was created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko to debut in Amazing Fantasy No. 15 in August of 1962. As a young boy, Peter his alter-ego was orphaned and was taken in by his Uncle Ben and Aunt May upon which he had an epiphany about his responsibilities…and this will be his gift and his curse!

In this final installment, the story revolved around Peter’s darker side giving a pathway entry for his nemesis to come to life…

After years of saving New York City, Peter Parker returning for the third time is Tobey Maguire (The House of Cider Rules) has come to terms for being the superhero everyone adores! Not only that, he is preparing to be engaged with the love of his life Mary Jane Watson portrayed once more by Kirsten Dunst (Crazy/Beautiful).

But happiness isn’t meant to last when Peter’s past comes haunting him back, the real perpetrator from his Uncle’s death had escaped from prison and gave levity to the back story of the franchise. Trying to be two things at once was not good for Peter’s persona since his love Mary Jane had recently been depressed from her sudden exit from a broadway show, it gave her the time to contemplate on her feelings while trying to find someone who could provide empathy for her misfortune. Peter on the other hand, is well over his head, had shown mixed emotions of grief, nirvana, aggressiveness and hunger for power in the middle of the film making him more distant with his Aunt May and his friends. As he is locked on with two bad guys, his girlfriend (on and off) in hostage and another reluctant “best friend” to help him with his predicament, Peter must find a way to save them but he must come to realization first to save himself from his own dark inhibitions!

To add insult to injury, the hunt was still on by Harry Osborn played by James Franco (Whatever It Takes) who still thinks that Peter murdered his father Norman! His part was a bit redundant already having to vent out all these anger from the last two prequels was already enough, then came two additional headaches! A pint sized photographer wannabee, from the riotous “That 70’s Show” comedy series from none other than Topher Grace (In Good Company) he plays Eddie Brock who got the angry symbiote’s sympathy and turned him into the entity known as Venom and an escaped felon trying to clear his name whose chances are lost like a grain of sand at a beach, Thomas Haden Church (Serial Killer) is Flint Marko also known to the authorities as the Sandman!

Speaking of beaches, one comes to mind, following her stint with awful films Bryce Dallas Howard (Lady in the Water) is man stealer Gwen Stacy (well technically in the comics she was the first GF…) and up to now she still have no credible film to take her seriously (ehem Mr. Shyamalan…anytime now!)…she usually plays a wide eyed woman who seems to not understand where she is and what she’s still doing there!

As usual, the veterans are still the people you can count on to carry these snot nosed middle aged citizens! Starting with Rosemary Harris (My Life So Far) as Aunt May Parker, J.K. Simmons (Hidalgo) as the notorious media mogul J.J. Jameson who I believe one of the very few who was perfectly casted to play the role!

Pretty much of these films are over hyped that they tend to blow if out of proportion in viral marketing, media and getting sequels compromised. The story was dragging though the plot was intended to be in that direction, it just makes no sense just to overdo things to make life more miserable for Peter Parker, even if he was able to pull it off with friends by his side and this was not given without sacrifice. The story ended with another dead person, a whole lot of rectification and forgiveness and lastly an open ended finish… but it doesn’t mean the story has come full circle!!!

From Director Sam Raimi (Drag Me to Hell) his supposedly installment should have provided a better plot, fans got excited for two villains facing the web head, their powers are even more staggering let alone their respective individual agenda that will literally shake the world of New York City’s celebrated superhero! Instead of focusing on the actual flow of the story, certain sequences of Peter doing his moves at the street, while shopping  and at the bar felt like really awkward and let’s just say “unmanly”!

A new guy has taken the shoes from the previous Director, his name is Marc Webb (nice one Marvel putting a Director with an instant subliminal for his last name) it would be a reboot focusing more on Peter’s high school life making the premise younger and hopefully more action as well as content in Spider-Man’s life! Andrew Garfield is the chosen one and I did saw a video clip of his movie “Never Let Me Go” and it looks promising. I really do appreciate actors with the ability to be diverse and well-rounded. I do hope that he can pull it off with his portrayal of the web slinger or he might get a few pumpkin bombs from the audience pun intended!

X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)

I’m the best there is of what I do but what I did (including some people…) was not really nice!

20th Century Fox in association with Seed Productions, Donner’s Company, Ingenious Film Partners, Big Screen Productions, Dune Entertainment and Marvel Studios present…

From Marvel Comics, a legend in his own right! Wolverine is regarded as one of the toughest, meanest, no non-sense superheroes that ever graced in the pages of comic book history! Spawned from an enigmatic past which made him more interesting to the readers and fans alike, Logan as he is normally called was created by Len Wein and Artist John Romita Sr., he first appeared in The Incredible Hulk No. 180 which showcased his first assignment to take down the “living engine of destruction”. This event catapulted his success to even greater heights and found his way to the class of second batch of mutants located by Prof. X throughout the globe in Giant-Size X-Men No. 1 in May 1975.

This should have been the pinnacle for the X-Men franchise since they have a very good concept on making films which were a based on the team and let Origins be the backdrop of every mutant character that can be established as standalone films. Unfortunately, it turned out to have a vapid storytelling with second rate actors with an abysmal script and delivery!

Northern Canada – 1845

When two brothers fled from a terrible incident, making them fugitives from the law, this was followed by series of events which captures their lives trapped in a timeline from different eras. Their history as soldiers became resolute for their bloody past that culminated from years of continuous war and hatred making them who they are and who they were meant to be!

Hugh Jackman (Swordfish) as Logan, the main protagonist had given so much for the character not just being portrayed as a superhuman mutant but also a lost soul who still needs to find meaning in his life and loss. His co-actor Liev Schrieber (Defiance) is the vicious Victor Creed, unrepentant and power hungry, he makes it a point to provide his half-brother a living nightmare! They are the only ones who made and honestly feel to have portrayed a commendable performance! The last time I remember they worked together was in the film Kate and Leopold, here they still live in different timelines and were still relatives! The supporting cast was terrible (majority of them by the way). People are expecting more from these casted performers, they should have turned the table in the X-Men films and its future projects!

Don’t let me start with this guy, Danny Huston (21 Grams) as Maj. William Stryker, a manipulative Agent of the Weapon X Program that genetically designs superhuman soldiers for clandestine purposes. William does this not just to impress the “donors” from the Government, but rather to use these mutants for his personal agenda. His performance has always been a pedestrian take on the characters he portrays, he can’t even match the emotional anger of Brian Cox from the previous X-Men film seeing that they are one and the same (well not entirely).

Ryan Reynolds (Definitely Maybe) is the smart mouth, sword wielding assassin Wade Wilson (hold on to your horses, he was not yet given the codename so relax!) His stunt double Martial Artist Scott Adkins (Undisputed) is Weapon XI who gave a tremendous fighting prowess to cleverly take on two of the most vicious killers of all time! The CG display on kicking and teleporting from different directions was a nice way to depict the power of mutant John Wraith who was testing his “acting” skills in his first stint on the big screen; he is Will.i.am of the pop group music sensation Black Eyed Peas who even got bruised knuckles on the set while auditioning for the role!

Supporting cast were not well rounded either! It was like everyone wants to hog the spotlight! Daniel Henney (Seducing Mr. Perfect) as Maverick, Kevin Durand (Smokin’ Aces) as the Blob, Dominic Monaghan (Lord of the Rings Trilogy) as Chris Bradley aka Bolt and Lyn Collins (Numb) is Kayla Silverfox round up the “usual suspects”. They were all poorly conceived, this goes down to Casting from Christine King (Stealth) and Debra Zane (Catch Me If You Can), the former had mediocre list of films under her belt but the latter had “American Beauty”, “The Terminal”, “Dream Girls” and “Kingdom of Heaven” which most of them were either nominated or have won in the Academy Awards!

To add insult, Director Gavin Hood didn’t even have any of those proclivities to acquire what’s best for the film even compromising the CGI, especially the claws! It was very clear that the person in front of the camera didn’t have the guts to make the deadlines in this charade! Heads up also to the Writers, this is just very poor execution of script writing by David Benioff and Skip Woods! To add, this was a CGI heavy project co-financed by Seed Productions which Hugh managed as a proprietor but recently closed shop and more importantly by Lauren Shuler Donner who made the X-Men films come to life and earn a huge amount of money with co-creator Stan Lee and CEO Avi Arad. They should have been diligent enough to see this film to be a certifiable blockbuster paving a way for future “Origin” films in the mutant universe of Marvel!

Another thing was how on earth did Gambit played by Taylor Kitsch (The Covenant) was able to scale walls with his Bo staff? How about the fast forwarded dismantling and clawing of the building’s fire escape at the alley to bring down “Cajun Wall Crawler”? Furthermore, where the hell they got the idea of putting a “Superman” Kent farm and an old couple who gave him the accommodation and hospitality he needed!?!?! I believe in good films, I believe in a good script! This was done without any gratification to the icon, to the mutant who made a great following from fans and not just in comics! It was an awful display of mediocrity, lackluster dialogue and character delivery! I hope that the next installment will be better and with another Director to helm the Canuckle Head, he needs to understand on how to first tell a story then incorporate it with the mythos of the “Legendary X-Man”… or else someone’s going to have claw marks, no pun intended!

Elektra (2005)

Maybe this is the reason why Frank did not want Elektra to return from the grave…a shallow movie was foreseen!

20^th Century Fox in association with New Regency Enterprises, Horseshoe Bay Productions, Epsilon Motion Pictures, Elektra Productions, SAI Productions and Marvel Studios present…

From her debut in Marvel Comics Daredevil No. 168 on January 1981, creator Frank Miller wanted better reasons not just to expand the story of Daredevil but to give him something to fight for, someone to die for! I can easily commend his machinations; his intense gritty take on his work and the characters he brings is given life in the comic book pages of imagination and uncertainty!

The frontrunner of the origins was an antecedent to many women, fallen and tragic all the same and in spite of his blindness he can’t help still to be mesmerized with their charm, wit or even their sad back story no matter how disdain, he fell in love…yes he is still human after all! Connecting him with Elektra’s world was absolutely impeccable and for all the right reasons, these ill-fated two crimson lovers have fought their own battles either side by side or cutting each other’s throat which makes their affair so much sweeter!

Subtlety has no room for these assignments as a failed attempt was dismissed by the clan! Now enter the abominations, team captain was decently played by Will Yun Lee (Die Another Day) the Katana wielding son Kirigi to the nefarious leader of The Hand. Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa (Tekken) is Roshi father to the freak! Cary has so many movies that he’s involved with being a villain, always the anti-thesis to the hero but never was able to impress the public for his acting it was always mediocre to say the least.

Gathered together are unrecognized talent (of course not to overshadow the lead role) the rest of the gang includes a former football player, MMA and an all time cry baby! Bob Sapp (The Longest Yard) is Stone; he has failed from previous sporting contentions that he recourse into acting instead. I might even applaud him for his portrayals in some comedies but definitely not here!

The next would be international model Natassia Malthe (Blood Rayne) as Typhoid brought in to resemble the comic book’s “Typhoid Mary”, her powers is to walk in a promiscuous manner, kiss anyone she likes and oh yes, she can kill you in a mere touch or breath! Another is Tattoo which seems to have more CGI screen time because of his ability to bring animals to life from his skin! Chris Ackerman was the pitiable bloke who represented him! Lastly, a stuntman named Kinkou, his fast, agile and a martial artist ok, right! I think everyone has one or two attributes since they were all ninjas for crying out loud! Funny all have English names and this one hasn’t!

I’m not going to elaborate more on the father and daughter; Plain and simple Abby and Mark Miller is the intended targets, they also hold a secret that will be later explained in the film. I got so tired getting all these people in the review without any one of them bringing in significance to what they did! I just need to focus on red clad ninja who seriously is underway to carry out her mission and her destiny to find emancipation and vindication! Jennifer Garner (Juno) returns in the same title role from her on screen and real life hubby’s previous super hero flick!

The story interprets the title character’s coming back to life from both from the physical and metaphor aspect. Elektra was given the title assassin, an Erynys of the Furies which symbolizes the totality of her attributes that will be brought forth of whomever her loyalty has in this waged war between good and evil! She must find a way to redeem herself from past sins and from this road less travelled sojourn, her decision should be answered really soon before everything is too late!

Director Rob Bowman only has a measly collection of past works (inclusive of Reign of Fire). He was one of the people who brought us unforgettable TV series hits from “21 Jump Street”, “The Hat Squad”, “Parker Louis Can’t Lose” and “The X-Files”. Mark Steven Johnson (Ghost Rider) gives his writing prowess (right!) to cover the talent for the big screen while collaborating with Frank’s inputs from the comic books as well. Cinematography was handled by Bill Roe has given enough shots that makes the film a bit more things to see and contemplate on.

Just like the rest of the super hero community even this film was given music to appease the rants of the movie going public. Songs that reverberates intended emotional standpoint for the heroine to contemplate on what she is going through and how will she survive these trials in life! The ever ardent Amy Lee comes back from the Daredevil soundtrack adding Taking Back Sunday, Switchfoot, Megan McCauley, Finger Eleven and a lot more to bring in melancholic tones filled with lost, disconcerted epiphany, well at least there is still ear candy involved!

The film suffered for reasons of the precursor which was a box office failure to start with. The title character was not too popular in the sense it only covered specific number of readers furthermore, it was intended for a mature aged market since the comic book and graphic novels were inclined to violence, drugs, murder, guns and sex which were actually the focus on its R Rating, it’s even insulting that it was toned down to PG13 to get more viewers and it still didn’t work now that’s a reason why these films fail in the ticket sales!

I can’t say that Jennifer as an actress did cause the conundrum; she was actually fit for the role and nailed the character for both delivery and assertiveness! Maybe it was also the lack of female super heroes in the mainstream that at least would have given more reasons for the women to find this interesting to watch! Coverage for the print media while was alright but on the other hand the male cast on the film was not sufficient enough to get more enthusiasm for the fan boys, even with legends like Cary and Terence Stamp (Valkyrie) was in it, who by the way was the blind mentor Stick a perennial character of the comic book series who was still not enough to carry the load!

I’m not saying it was a terrible film it’s just that anything that comes from Frank, I’m there, I’ll always be a fan with his works! However, requiem as it should be, as the katana faced its sai some things are not meant to live forever! Well at least the second season of Netflix’s Daredevil has a different perspective on the character…although her “father” does not approve, we’re still pretty sure she’ll kick a lot of bottoms!

Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance (2012)

After the former Director suffered the “penance stare”, I believe a specific number of people will need to be “exorcised” literally…let’s hope Marvel lifts the curse once and for all!

Hyde Park Entertainment, Imagenation Abu Dhabi, Crystal Sky Pictures and Marvel Studios present…

There are reasons why people run away, some to forget the past, from the sins they committed, others to have a better life! But for Johnny, he left his town, his life and his only love in order to save himself from damnation…which he carries up to now!

From the Directors of “Crank” and “Gamer” comes a film like no other (at least in their own minds)! Neveldine/Taylor are both American Film Makers known for their camera’s on roller blades, capturing shots at high speeds and in low angles, maybe they have this patented already! Still nobody will care!

It actually gives credence to the premise of the story where a certain outsider needs to contemplate in his journey and to figure a way to release this abomination inside his body! Given a new beginning, the two gave their obvious enthusiasm to helm the film from Marvel Comics! They were able to set the tone of the title character and the comic book angst in terms of what Johnny has become! I think both Directors went over the hill to bring what they could in their “own” way and likeness even filling the gaps with montage of character backgrounds with the use of “animation” and “dazzling” (yeah, right!) us with scenes of their “repertoire” in Directing as implied earlier!

The Story and Screenplay was helmed by David Samuel Goyer (Batman begins) who helped produced the first film in 2007. Now, to assist him with the writing duties, Seth Hoffman (FlashForward) and Scott Gimple (Walking Dead) who is now involved as a Producer and Writer for the aforementioned TV series! I really don’t know what’s eating David, he needs something motivational in order to come up with a great story, the hits and misses with his contribution in films has been his threshold to bigger and better projects! His narratives in the Blade series were good not great, mediocre or famished horror flicks but made a cult following in his 1998 sci-fi film Dark City and the current take for the “greatest superhero of all time”, definitely its Nolan’s Batman trilogy! His work here was unbearable, lines being said and exchanged even for the minor characters were so pedestrian it’s supposed to be meant for B movies (I’m trying my best to imply something here).

The intention of making it as action oriented as possible worked even more giving it a realistic and a darker look which conveys heavily on the banner of the publisher suited for mature audiences. Though unfortunately, the “bad ass” gimmickry combined with sloppy camera work, abysmal plot and underdeveloped characters were sufficient enough to say the least and express once more our utmost gratitude in ruining another potential for a tent pole in Marvel’s camp!

An antihero by nature, he dwells from the power of evil and uses it for the cause of good! How ironic that these characters have to suffer so much, to live a life full of misery and pain! Returning from the 2007 film, Nicolas Cage (Drive Angry) is Johnny Blaze; from the United States he has now relocated in Eastern Europe trying to find a way to exorcise his demons! His narrative contemplates on having this power granted, gifted by the Devil himself. It made Johnny realize that there is something more to this damned entity inside of him and its origins…

Able to take souls for the sins they commit, it’s much easier for the Rider to hunt you down whether you are a wicked psychopath or simply having bad thoughts…he will definitely find you and pray that he doesn’t! His life was never a happy memory, in order to save his dying father; he bargained for his life and sold his own soul to Mephistopheles! Now, a demon named Zarathos controls and turns him into a “non-environmental friendly”, smoke belching supernatural hero! A servant from hell who collects the souls of those who needs to be eternally punished!

Well, until Moreau finds him! He is played by rising star Idris Elba (The Losers) who now needs his assistance in rescuing Danny played by newcomer Fergus Riordan (I Want to Be a Soldier), a young boy betrothed by an evil force that needs to be contained for the good of mankind! Idris has always been commendable in his works even in the small screen, his French accent can still use some tweaking but nevertheless he’s still giving fans a little more to look forward too! With veteran actor Christopher Lambert (Highlander) he portrays Methodius, returning after an over extended vacation! He lends again his sword wielding expertise while trying to do another “quickening” very original guys! While Johnny Whitworth (Shadow Hours) provides more muscle for the underworld, he plays Ray Carrigan who became Blackout after his unfortunate demise! Definitely a worthy adversary than the “three stooges” last time!

It was disappointing (again) on how they were able to tackle the “biker in flames” and leave it still in a mess, especially with Ciaran Hinds (The Debt) in a pivotal role as the Devil himself who brought a demon child to the world named Danny acted by Fergus Riordan (Fragile) through a promiscuous mother Nadya portrayed by Violante Placido (The Lookout)! He looks like he needs an eye operation or something! The good thing was the veteran actor has talent but even good ones when mixed in a basket of rotten tomatoes becomes one as well. It was just upsetting that the talent of his caliber takes these kinds of projects! When I first watched the official trailer that was introduced by Mark and Brian themselves, I laughed so hard at their opening speech seeing these Directors so “over confidently” informs the viewing public on how “great” their accomplishment is (these guys are “really” funny)!

On the other hand, if we want to forget about the scrappy dialogue and focus intently in the entertainment, action and lunacy that Nic provides, it would be well be bargained for! Though not meant to be a crazed freak when he tried to be “hyperventilated” to give some levity to the character, Johnny in the comic books were forlorn, a drunkard and a wrecked man coming from so much violence and “soul eating” in his life. But in the film, he had a ball, thrashing everyone in sight who get’s in the way just like a kid having new toys and minions to play with!

Iloura, an Australian Company who won the bragging rights for the film states in their website their work for VFX is “high end” and had so many testimonials about their previous works have been their groundwork, the foundation for producing films with the best results! From painting, compositing, FX animations even covering previs which is being used by the most talented Directors! It was unfortunately wasted by the people who push the projects without clearly thinking if it will garner a successful output in the box-office till! Not only that, Eric Durst (City of Ember) who supervised the Department even made headway for the current technology to match the needs of Ghost Rider’s flames especially with his skull which was nicely done however, the puppetry used did not compliment much as it lacks the surrealism intended to make it work!

Well at least Marvel and CEO Avi Arad who is also the Producer of the film can say that we don’t need to worry, we still have “The Avengers” watching our backs! Please don’t waste time with these people who don’t know how to tell a story leaving the company losing more money and worse, without earning enough profit to make a sequel (unfortunately you call this a sequel)! Columbia Pictures who takes care of the distribution rights was even the one who gave the go signal to push through with this film. Find a clear pathway for these superheroes, a storyline that fans appreciated, a relatable plot and composite assets not compromising SFX and CGI which added insult to injury, this was even shown in 3D as it only adheres to what the Directors wants to see which is utterly demented and worthless!

What did I say from my last review? Hell will be unleashed if this film falls big time! But there is an old saying “to forgive is divine” these guys are still lucky the “Angel of Justice” overcomes the “Demon of Vengeance”!

Ant-Man (2015)

A film that is basically a piece of a “massive” puzzle although “small” in size it does impeccably gives you the “bigger” picture!

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures and Marvel Studios present…

Marvel Comics latest offering to date, welcome to the microcosm world of Ants! A little history won’t hurt, as related films became rampant when technology have already caught up with modern times seeing that even Stan Lee pitched this project back in the 1980’s with Disney (how ironic) but was already developing a “family” oriented story. So we jump back to the present, Directed by Peyton Reed (Yes Man) and Produced by Kevin Feige as they are settling the second phase of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the said project started since 2003 by Award Winning Writer Edgar Wright (Shaun of The Dead) which went into development hell upon making multiple drafts with co-writer Joe Cornish (The Adventures of Tin Tin: The Secret of the Unicorn).

Created by David Michelinie and John Byrne, the character Scott Lang first appeared as himself in The Avengers No. 181 on March 1979 and as the Ant-Man in Marvel Premiere No. 47 on April 1979. Funny man Paul Rudd (The Little Prince) plays the second helmer of the suit and title! One part burglar (reformed) and reluctant hero for the other half. Paul gives his performance for Scott to be the guy who wants, needs to convert and become a better person plus be able to provide child support…or just be at her daughter’s birthday party!

Paul who also helped in the Screenplay has given his own style of humor sheepishly injecting it with dialogue and how he builds rapport with co-stars. Considering that this was a heist film, it was easier to know the plot which involved the thief, the unethical villain, the training plus the plan to infiltrate the stronghold and to prove your innocence at the end! To add, the film has Spielberg’s imprint all over it with its father-child situational emotion roller coaster on both ends of the spectrum! Evangeline Lily (The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug) is Hope Van Dyne senior board member of Pym Technologies, partner in crime and a mole for her father. Her stringent approach serves meaning for her anger of how or why did her mother died and all she could blame is Hank.

While former spy and S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Dr. Hank Pym portrayed by Michael Douglas (Beyond the Reach) embittered father and scientist who does what it takes to stop Dr. Darren Cross a former protégé from selling his technology to the world’s highest bidders including terror organizations such as HYDRA and The Ten Rings! His character debuted in Tales to Astonish No. 27 on January 1962 and as the superhero in Tales to Astonish No. 35 on September of the same year. Michael does give a sense of class while playing second fiddle to a comedian. Seriously, everyone who has read the comics and followed the adventures of the Earth’s Mightiest Heroes knows that Hank was an original and founding member of this roster and it was just made necessary to incorporate these two characters to make the hero aspect work!

This guy does even exceed the intelligence of Tony Stark and even call his pet project “cheap technology”. Don’t get me wrong, they are practically on the same team but Pym’s particles explores more than applied science and mechanical engineering but rather going through the boundaries of nanotechnology, robotics, biophysics and quantum physics.

So the suit practically was being bamboozled from the progenitor and now he needs all the help he can get to make sure that his “patented” vessel will not fall on the wrong hands unless Cross has anything to say and do about it! He is portrayed by Corey Stoll (Midnight in Paris). Seriously, this guy would define his character to be on the grey area when he has “eradicated” someone who might give his business a speed bump! The suit developed by the latter was described to “eliminate obstructions on the road to peace”, does surveillance and industrial sabotage to name a few. Meaning, since it became militarized from the original owner’s perspective, it can do so much as to protect every corporation, country and its leaders well that would be the case scenario but what if it fell into the wrong hands?

The “grifter”, the sweet talking, I like to move it (steal it) Michael Peña (End of Watch) makes another ante-up for his coveted supporting roles although you got to hand to the guy, he can really supply the needed talent when needed. While Judy Greer (The Descendants) again in a minor role is playing Maggie who is now living with a police officer and holds custody of Cassie her daughter with Scott!

To be honest it was alright, there were funny moments, some jokes were not funny some hit the spot. Maybe it just got muddled for a long time considering the development phase from writing up until they got the thespians on board to read the script which made it predictable. Even Cross was trying to transit from a troubled man may be affected by the Cross Particles (Green Goblin anyone?) and becoming an actual villain that only got his pride hurt! Simple as it is, the story has an interesting take on the man and the suit considering that they have used macrophotography and combining it with motion-capture gave the element of inserting these actions into epic landscapes. It was crucial to say the least which made the transition and finished product jump into life and make the movie’s experience let’s just say a “quantum leap”!

There is still so much to pitch in for the ideas encased with Ant-Man, the film is just a stepping stone on “bigger” things to come. Some of which are the suit’s full capacity, enhancements and capabilities still untapped! Another one would be Scott’s inclusion in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as a superhero and as an Avenger. Dr. Hank Pym’s more vivid history as they go along with the upcoming installments and no matter how you don the suit, cowl or cape the only important thing to consider is the person inside, not matter how big or small they are!

So, the father and daughter relationship got a little headway with compromise and for Hope to fully understand her role, Dr. Pym has now showed her what would it be like to fill in her mother’s shoes…

Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

Age of Ultron is about bringing the team back together once more that made history in cinema making from their last outing and for the Director, everything in the landscape has to be better, faster, stronger, grittier and louder! But was it necessary?

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures and Marvel Studios present…

The sequel to the blockbuster summer hit “The Avengers”! Directed and written by Joss Whedon (Much Ado About Nothing) and Produced by Marvel’s head honcho Kevin Feige. After Loki tried to conquer Midgard with an army of extra-terrestrial beings, we turn our heads now to Ultron a sentient robot that wants to eradicate humanity for non-conformance to evolution! The maniacal metal menace debuted on August 1968 via Avengers No. 54-55, its real creators are Roy Thomas and John Buscema while according to comic book lore the actual fictional guy who made him was   Dr. Henry “Hank” Pym also known as Ant-Man! (and Giant Man, Goliath, Yellow Jacket, Wasp etc.)

The mind-set for the superheroes who gave an impression to all viewers is to see them save the world from a global threat which gives the precipice an undeniable outcome. However well intended, it becomes a scratch in the head to see the same thing done over again wherein a peril, specifically in a grander scale will need these individuals for our salvation.

AVENGERS ON PAYBACK ATTACKS!

Steve Rogers revving his motorcycle is now field commander (front and center) and bantering with team mates about bad words (naughty Tony) as they raid a castle of HYDRA headed by Thomas Kretschmann (Downfall) and Henry Goodman (Yes, Prime Minister) as Baron Von Strucker and Dr. List respectively in a fictional country named Sokovia. When the team enters enemy territory, we can see how big was the set to give The Avengers the introduction they needed! Cohesive, fast paced and intense as The Captain gives orders and runs the show while the heavy hitters dismantle tanks, bunkers and soldiers! For Chris Evans (Snowpiercer) we see him develop his stature as he lives up to the title not just playing a soldier following orders but as the man on point while even earning the respect of the Thunder God and the Mechanic Genius.

But the question is who captured the bigger fish was it Cap or Iron Man? Robert Downey Jr. (Due Date) sets aside his ego and decides to be a team player. He shares his building with the team complete with a research facility, a science lab, a bar and a VTOL garage! As Tony states that he pays, designs, provides for everything, he still raises his chair with text book narcissism but given the groundwork, he did serve the team through his well-intended function which is to “shake” things up!

ANTHONY STARK’s MECHANICAL MONSTER (IT’S ALIVE, IT’S ALIVE!!!)

“I got no strings to hold me down to make me fret, to make me frown. I had strings but now I’m free, there are no more strings on me!”

The Iron Legion returning home with damages specifically on its face says: “honey we’re home!” and Tony replies “have you been fighting again and what’s wrong with your face!?!”

Discussing the potential of the sceptre with fellow nerd Dr. Bruce Banner reprising his role is Mark Ruffalo (Where the Wild Things Are), he was very eager and pedantic to jump start the Ultron Program using the said premise but with given caution! As J.A.R.V.I.S tries to integrate his programming with the said A.I. suddenly everything becomes a clusterfuck! By the way don’t make too much noise or you’ll wake it up…shhhh!!!

Asleep, Awakened, Assimilate and Assassinate!

James Spader (Shadow of Fear) lends his voice to the ultimate baddie! He was creepy, enigmatic and sounded like a deranged psychopath! The way he said those lines gave me goose bumps. Repeating what his “Father” implied regarding his mission, the peace of our times when in truth you don’t want to evolve and you are not worthy gives its actual intentions…

James killed it as an actor but Ultron might have been overshadowed by too much people standing around to share the spotlight! Its program is absolute, its goals are clear as day and it definitely has the messiah complex to boot! But the screen time made it farfetched when either it shows up out of nowhere to set-up his plans or it is seen battling the Avengers just to compliment fan service!

THE ENEMY OF MY ENEMY IS MY SUPPLIER

Upon this rock I will build my church! Ulysses Klaue portrayed by Andy Serkis (Rise of the Planet of the Apes) is an arms dealer formerly in ties with Tony back in the day. His part was brief but gave a diving platform for the desperate “despot” to acquire a very rare metal called vibranium which he steals from Wakanda, introduced as a fictional nation in South Africa.

Elements that gives preview to an upcoming film where the former smuggler aptly named Klaw who debuted in Marvel Comics on Stan Lee and Jack Kirby on August 1966 in Fantastic Four No. 53 is being set-up to become the main villain for Black Panther!

MONSTERS HAVE PROBLEMS TOO!

The film is all about “monsters” both literally and figuratively!

The dialogue keeps on ringing like a broken down record player taking to account that they have known each other since they have fought the Chitauri years back, but the one liners were too conventional as it keeps them moving along to get to the punch line!

I think what they are trying to make, inculcate for the viewing public is to not get stuck up with one objective of telling the story of the diabolical robot but to give life, meaning to the team’s developing relationships of course not just between Natasha and Bruce (ehem Hulk is here too!) which some of us find unique but also eccentric. They maybe gave this a try for reasons of developing more the characters and making them story centric while the Russian Spy Scarlett Johansson (Lucy) never got the chance to resign her feelings seeing that she went through a harsh kind of childhood from her mind set as an assassin, when all she just ever needed was someone to belong too!

Whereas her supposed lover, has been trying to consider if this thing can work out but unfortunately his overbearing half has given him the reason to be selfless in spite the pain. Mark came through with his reflections on both Bruce and Hulk. The passive, introvert man that makes the behemoth look even more brutal from the other swing of the pendulum.

There is a threat, that is true but how they solve it, how do they manage to survive this will be critical to each and every character. Like Jeremy Renner’s (Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol) character Clint Barton leads a double life, he has his obligations to his country and to the world as a S.H.I.E.L.D agent and as an Avenger but more importantly he has a family to protect first hand!

He was given a breath of fresh air here noting that he does provide a sense of humanity to make this unit that comprises an egotistic genius, a lost in time super soldier, a weather deity, a living engine of destruction and another monster who wants to be loved and accepted to be cohesive despite not having super powers but he has a gift and it will be the catalyst to stand up once more to face the their problems together as one!

The sacrifice comes with the vulnerability of being human and although we are not perfect and have tendencies to be destructive, we do have a sense of morality and an unfathomable faith deep inside in each and everyone one of us.

SO WHAT MAKES YOU AN AVENGER?

Some would like to take a break as Tony heads off to contemplate on his actions, Thor seeks more answers in his vision, Bruce is gone to find his personal lullaby and Clint goes back home to take care of his family! As Steve and Natasha are now bestowed with a new roster!

Don Cheadle (Traitor) serves as War Machine who debuted in “Iron Man 2” as a weapons military contractor, an Officer of the U.S. Air Force and Tony’s sparring partner. Paul Bettany (Firewall) was just a rather intelligent system but now plays with the big boys personally as Vision a synthetic humanoid harnessing the powers of the mind gem and was crucial to the recent victory of the team, Anthony Mackie (Gangster Squad) is Sam Wilson also known as Falcon, a pararescueman who was trained to take flight with a special wing pack by the military plus he is a close “running” mate of Steve and last but not the least the only rose among thorns Elizabeth Olsen (Martha Marcy and May) Wanda Maximoff, is the surviving twin codenamed Scarlet Witch, with powers like telekinesis, hypnosis and reality manipulation. Should have been included in the roster, her fallen brother Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Kck-Ass) Pietro Maximoff, was Quicksilver an Avenger by heart and now it stopped due to rescuing another guy who was needed more in the ending sequence!

Finally some changes, I’m not saying the original was done it’s just that as far as the story is concerned everyone should need to move on, step aside or disappear if they want and come back when everything is in chaos again. Fresh faces, abilities and competencies give them a reason to continue their gung-ho Avengers Assemble!

CROWD CLAUSTROPHOBIA

Well actually there’s already an elephant in the room! Seeing Stan Lee cameo once more as a war veteran and says Excelsior! Hayley Atwell (Cassandra’s Dream) is Peggy Carter who shows up in Steve’s hallucination of a war that does not end even if he wanted peace. Idris Elba (Pacific Rim) conveys to Thor about the prejudice of Hel and the collection of the Infinity Stones. Julie Delpy (Sunset) is Madame B, head mistress of the Black Widow program who supervises Natasha to become an elite killing machine.

On the side note since there were too many characters in the film certain participants had to just squeeze in to voice out their lines like Cobie Smulders (The Long Weekend) as Maria Hill, a former high ranking officer of S.H.I.E.L.D. have with so much work with little or no help to find out what’s actually going on. Samuel L. Jackson (Shaft) is Nick Fury says he’s getting old for this and his role was just plain redundant seeing that he was only there to rally the team get them into shape to beat the aggressor once more, they should have left him out just this once!

Claudia Kim (7^th Grade Civil Servant) as Dr. Helen Cho a world renowned geneticist and the mother of the boy genius Amadeus Cho who is also a member of the Avengers in the comic book who we hope in seeing or be part of the team as well in the coming installments. Stellan Skarsgard (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo) plays Erik Selvig, Thor’s drinking buddy and an astrophysicist who was summoned to know more about his dreams. Here is the funny part, Chris Hemsworth (Rush) is really leaving left and right in a “rush” because he does not have anything to do anymore except to flex his biceps, pummel the bad robots or be in time to resurrect an android!

This is the part that has to be looked into seriously since there was a need to give all these characters a part not that Clint’s family was important but if they could have given it to someone who needs a little more background. Dr. Cho’s part as well, she could have been mentioned only or even contacted just like Pepper Potts and Jane Foster since Tony does have a state of the art facility. Plus, the Maximoff twins were underwhelming from their accents, their origins and the use of their powers. There was nothing spectacular about them or made at least some of the viewer’s feel that they were indeed special! ILM and Double Negative were the frontrunners in the visual effects department including new comer Method Studios who helped digitally design the Avengers training facility.

Those who stood out were Chris for the script and delivery of his character and who got more ways than one to utilize his shield, strength and his leadership skills, finally stepping into the big shoes of leading the team without any contradictions. Jeremy for providing some conscience to not just for his posse but also the new recruits, Mark on tackling two embodiments of an emotionally troubled man and of course Ultron’s voice acting through James! This is definitely an age to change, to evolve not by skin but rather of heart!

Unforgettable scenes were the opening battlefront, the introduction of the robot, Tony’s R&D Center that can put Batman’s Batcave to shame, the stand-off from the Big Three against Ultron with the Twins on a walk way bridge, the slugfest between “Veronica” and Betty (sorry Bruce) and when Hulk was saying goodbye for the last time. Joss even made emphasis on the globetrotting exploits of our heroes which includes Italy, South Korea, England and Bangladesh and not just being dormant on domestic soil.

In closing (finally), if you want to do something right, do it yourself! Josh Brolin (Men in Black III) as Thanos is seen to have a gauntlet and states that he’ll find the stones by himself. But why were you just sitting all this time man?

Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

GOTG offers that adrenaline rush as it roots you for the misguided misfits even if they only have 12% of the plan in saving the galaxy!

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures and Marvel Studios present…

The film was directed by James Gunn (Super) and co-written by Nicole Perlman bringing inspiration from British comic book writers Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning as they resurrected a team of space faring, self-anointed super heroes (you’re welcome) that made their debut in Guardians of the Galaxy No. 1 on May 2008. This serves as Marvel’s tenth inning in their on-going cinematic universe that traverses different , characters, stories and realms that hits bottom-line which is to stop the bad guys and save the day!

It all starts with an abduction of a young boy by Yondu and his Ravagers, Michael Rooker (The Replacement Killers) heads the pack of thieves and smugglers. His penchant for bounty and shiny things comes with a price that even if he needs to kill anyone he will do so unless you can bargain your way out of it! Suddenly fast forwarded into another place and time where a certain plunderer who calls himself Star Lord has found a lucrative item that will change all their lives in an instant! Chris Pratt (Moneyball) plays Peter Quill, a self-appointed leader of the Guardians. His real identity served him well throughout the film considering his motives and M.O., he still gets away with the ladies, gets acquitted by the space police and literally obliterates the enemy! Well, after he escapes the wrath of Korath of course courtesy of Djimon Honsou (Blood Diamond) an intergalactic hunter tasked to “pursue” anyone under the name of Kree. He says that he wants to be part of this film for reasons to bring diversity in the genre seeing that his young son idolizes “Spider-Man”!

While bumping into Gamora an alien assassin and surrogate daughter of Thanos who cameos briefly from Josh Brolin (Jonah Hex) through performance capture technology from Luma Pictures facial animation system. Thespian Zoe Saldana (The Losers) keeps getting hitched by alien based projects that really suit her well since “Avatar” and “Star Trek” were box-office giants! She gives meaning to a woman that was forced to live a life of lies with her sister Nebula, jealous of their sibling rivalry due to her father’s favoring of the former. Karen Gillian (Not Another Happy Ending) has good reason why she needs to be bad and to prove her worth knowing she is just second fiddle compared to her sister.

Speaking of giants, former wrestler turned actor Dave Bautista (The Man with the Iron Fist) better known to the free world as Batista of WWE as he gives his sights on Drax The Destroyer, an alien survivor hell bent on revenge with Ronan The Accuser played by Lee Pace (The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey) a zealot of the Kree Empire serving as its judge, jury and executioner! They may have to deal with their anger issues since both of these titans are always ready to rumble! Unless Nova Prime Irani Rael and her Corps from Xandar has anything to say to it! Academy Award 6 time nominee Glenn Close (Fatal Attraction) serves as their head of state and commands the military / police force aptly named the Nova Corps!

Joining her roster is Ben C. Reilly (Step-Brother) delivers the goods at least not through man child tantrums for once; he is Corpsman Rhomann Dey who actually makes fun of the nonconformists being captured for misdemeanor behavior in open public!

It’s ironic how complete strangers from different species can bring camaraderie in a short span of time knowing that they have their selfish means at first which turns out something more than being selfless. The word could mean so much if you were a “Giving Tree” and protect the wild as “Ranger Rick” as referenced to children’s books back on Earth. Groot a sentient humanoid and Rocket Racoon a weapons expert are the best buddies and they are seen together already when they were bounty hunting. Vin Diesel (Fast and the Furious) and Bradley Cooper (American Sniper) lends their voices for both characters respectively. These two I believe are the heart and soul of the team considering that they are compliment well each other like yin and yang!

Set in London for the initial production in Shepperton Studios which they already started to audition for the main characters. There are certain aspects in making this film that is very uniquely genuine not just with the players involved as the film gives a sense of audacity plus comedy that doesn’t make you sulk.

First off, the music was definitely way off the charts here (get it?) the 1970’s soundtrack that keeps the film rolling and provides each and every scene momentous from the hospital drama, the opening credits, the kick-ass gearing up for battle and the vindication at the end is nothing short of impressive! Taken that that this is an outer space adventure James and the Producer Kevin Feige made sure that the budget is lucrative enough to pay the services of the visual effects companies. Moving Picture Company (MPC) was responsible for most of the visual effects seen on the film as well as the development of Groot while Framestore dealt with Rocket’s design plus the construction of Knowhere which is actually the head of a deceased Celestial! While talents from the likes of Ben Davis (Seven Pyschopaths) as Cinematographer gives an ante up on the production design, putting together the boundaries of CGI and the natural landscape helps amalgamate things in its own cosmic scale through his lens!

Finding the right type of actors’ gives deeper meaning on how someone just portrays these comic book based beings and they really have to stand out knowing that fans will clamor for consistency and interpretation that will really going to have a huge outcome in terms of the success of the given films. The spectacular sets, the ever evolving visual effects, the sounds are all epidermal by nature and seeing guys Chris Pratt become a better lead actor who turned down the offer initially, the transition of Dave for stepping up and being patient with his career or the likes of Vin coming from a death of a friend where he finds solace in Groot! These are the moments you value and at the end of the day make them worth watching on screen!

I find the whole story to be a complete experience knowing that all of these people come together bringing a piece of themselves as they practically become part of a larger scale of things. They lost their families, their worlds but still, they managed to provide this synergy by believing in what they can do and just for once setting aside their differences and self-satisfaction for greed, revenge, redemption and ego! I admired how James was able to bring a massive take on this script with so much heavy hitters in Marvel Comics as they were able to change the CBM landscape while even going beyond the far regions of space!

Finally, after all the team went through from being hunted, incarcerated, blown to pieces and absorb the power cosmic…they all survived! The acid test is a complete success and doubts about the director and with Marvel to choose this bunch of aliens with genuine altruism, ultimately saves the galaxy but demands that you thank them for it!

So a certain shop explodes as the owner Benicio Del Toro also known as Taneeleer Tivan “The Collector (Things We Lost in the Fire) drinks his misery with a cosmonaut canine and a sarcastic duck…bottoms up!

Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

“Keep your friends close but keep your enemies closer.” – Sun Tzu (The Art of War)

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures and Marvel Studios present…

Captain America was created back in the day where war was a huge detriment to society and in order to alleviate the populace in its own little way, thus the “super soldier” was born! After two years since the attack on New York City from beings in outer space, Steve Rogers tries to catch up with the modern world and now works as an operative for the United States Government’s specialized department code named S.H.I.E.L.D under the command of Director Nick Fury with compliments to Samuel L. Jackson (The Spirit) who has since became a household name when it comes to comic based films, making his undeniable presence since the day he showed up in Iron Man (ground zero for the MCU films)!

Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo (You, Me and Dupree) while screenplay was provided by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely (You Kill Me). Never would we have known that the comedy centric tandem of these writers would absolutely produce a runaway success hit that comprises the whole nine yards of film making and giving it relevance to the actual reality that the world is being controlled by a handful few! On the other hand, the Cinematography counts a lot for given measure since Trent Opaloch (Elysium) gives the story sweeping and specific capture of details on given scenarios while making it more tangible and nail biting in reference of the music provided by Henry Jackman (X-Men: First Class).

A TALE OF TWO SOLDIERS: FRIENDS AND FOES

Two men, lost in a world filled with lies and deception! The former became the patriot for his country as he continues the good fight against the forces of oppression while he leads another set of commandos who might have a different perspective in terms of this era’s global war! Coming back from a frozen icy grave (irony) Chris Evans (Iceman) together with the “multi-tasking” Scarlett Johansson (The Black Dahlia) makes the most of their reunion considering that their specific skill sets gives room to be “more” acknowledged making them go toe to toe with their adversaries. They team up with covert black-ops missions whom they coordinate with a team known as S.T.R.I.K.E (Special Tactical Reserve for International Key Emergencies) upon which Frank Grillo (Warrior) is a member plus acting as lieutenant to the “Sentinel of Liberty”! Modern times has changed drastically especially for the man who is on the run, as Steve tries to find the truth about the agency he is working with, their real agenda and at the same time to those who give the orders.

The latter was a comrade at arms, a former sidekick and above all an irreplaceable friend! Created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby and appeared as his title character in Captain America Vol. 5 No. 1 on January 2005. Enter the Winter Soldier played remarkably by Sebastian Stan (The Covenant), his concept on how to approach the character was derived from “The Joker” from the block buster phenomenon “The Dark Knight”, the actor explains that his intentions are not just to be the villain in the story but to allow utter chaos flow with his actions as he terrorizes the populace by mass killings and assassinations being made even in broad day light!

While the errand boy does his master’s bidding, veteran and multi-awarded actor Robert Redford (Spy Game) portrays the enigmatic Alexander Pierce, his presence alone does give stipulation of how his so-called long term goals coincide with a “new world order” by tearing the old one down so as to handle prejudice across the globe by answering back not with words of diplomacy but rather with “hell bound” helicarriers!

TRAITORS, ALLIES AND TECH SUPPORT

Cobie Smulders (The Long Weekend) goes in and out of the playing field to provide prop up for the heroes just to save millions of people from being annihilated including both humans and super heroes alike (Ororo Munroe, Amadeus Cho, Bruce Banner, Dr. Stephen Strange, Tony Stark the list goes on). While adding a new face in the MCU (and practically in The Avengers roster soon) is former USAF pararescue Anthony Mackie (The Hurt Locker) as the high soaring Falcon, he has always given his supporting presence some levity where he can still be a team player without acting like someone who is egotistical, he handles his scenes and dialogue as someone who is willing to fight another war just to help his friends and save humanity!

Speaking of which, I was glad that we still got to see the newly inorganic, reincarnated monstrosity (200 K feet of data banks) and former “Swiss” Scientist Dr. Arnim Zola (HAIL HYDRA!) portrayed again by Toby Jones (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy). Marvel is ingenious to give the Doctor the right contemporary look compared in the pages of the comic books! His plans were well carried off by carefully positioned “ground troops” knowing that one day their slithering tentacles will seize the right opportunity to strangle S.H.I.E.L.D and all of its glory (maniacal laughter HAIL HYDRA!).

The commandeering of the vessel ship, the gun fights, car chases, martial arts / hand to hand combat simulations, the CGI courtesy of ILM looked flawless especially for the characters taking into account their given roles. Noteworthy is the inclusion of Georges “The Leaper” Batroc known in the Marvel Universe as a thief who uses his strong legs to get away from his crimes. Former UFC World Champion Georges St-Pierre gives the Captain a rare one on one stand off to jumpstart the film’s premise!

I watched this film in a cinema where I was asked to choose which one would be better “300: Rise of an Empire” or this one? To be honest I was so happy I chose the latter! It’s already given that you are watching a fan favorite from the comic books as Marvel and Disney ante up the plot a bit more to tilt into the spy-political thriller where every detail should not be left behind nor unturned since it will allow you to connect piece by piece the actual agenda of HYDRA and how they were able to manipulate S.H.I.E.L.D all these years. There is an underlying conspiracy that gives the plot a catalyst to see that no matter how resolved anyone with their ideals; it can still be shaken or controlled by paranoia!

Control would be a good word coming from the special effects team of six companies including ILM, Scanline, Lola, Luma Pictures, Whiskytree and The Embassy plus pre-visualization by Proof which gives the sequences a little more “kick to the teeth” and at the same time to make it look awe inspiring! The casts are more comfortable with each other and dialogue has an easier flow especially with Steve and Natasha working to resolve this clandestine commandeering of their agency!

There were a lot of nail biting moments from the Lemurian Star take over, Fury being hunted down, the secret HYDRA base where it housed the computer Zola and all of the third act’s glory! It is actually so far the best film in the MCU with a smartly written screenplay, thought provoking, real modern times aligned machinations, what else can you ask for?

So, to give emphasis on this juncture another major villain is leading the amputated “skull squid” as he states that this is not a world anymore for spies and heroes but rather of “miracles”! Given that the so-called twins shown after the film were Pietro and Wanda Maximoff better known as the siblings Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch, the “mutant” children of Magneto “Master of Magnetism”!

In relation, we also need not overlook how things have changed in the MCU primarily since they want to involve as many characters as possible; unfortunately they were not able to do so since selling the rights of some of their properties to both Fox and Sony which includes “X-Men”, “The Fantastic Four” and “Spider-Man” although given that their contractual obligations to be definite, we just need to be patient when all of these characters will finally come home!

In related news, a boy was recently abducted from planet Earth and is destined to be a “guardian”…