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!

The Town (2010)

“For where your treasure is, there will be your heart also.” – Matthew 6:21

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Legendary Pictures, Thunder Road Films and GK Films present…

Written and Directed by Ben Affleck (Gone Baby Gone) the film was based on Chuck Hogan’s gripping novel “The Prince of Thieves” which was published in 2004. A story of a bank robber who did not only stole money from the community of Charlestown, Boston but also their values and pride! But that was just the beginning; Ben together with newcomers Peter Craig and Aaron Stockard wrote the Screenplay to convey a part of this city’s facts between “Tunies” and “Townies” in which criminal tendencies for robbery has been passed down from one generation to the next. It was self-oriented, straight-up premise with machismo filled dialogue!

Going back to the point man! Someone is in a roll here, Ben also stars as the film’s highest profiled bank robber Douglas MacRay a seeming nice guy who acts as the de facto leader of an ensemble. Together with his wrecking crew, they meticulously target armored vans with guards that have the least tendency to bite back! He was able to have this character’s bad habits or maybe he had the wrong crowd surrounding him all his life starting with his family; Chris Cooper (American Beauty) is Stephen MacRay, like father like son who has the same line of work while having the demeanor of being compassionate and loyal that makes him more dangerous!

The actor had some moments in his career to shine with the late 90’s “Chasing Amy”, “Good Will Hunting” and “Shakespeare in Love” and reasonably fell on blockbuster films like “Armageddon”, “Pearl Harbor”, “The Sum of All Fears” and his superhero take on Marvel’s “Daredevil”. He had bounced back ever since and fought his way to ante up the game even with his brother Casey and long time friend Matt Damon who both had better offers and projects. Through Directing, Ben was able to provide Hollywood thought provoking stories that gave him accolades and for the public to embrace his work once more!

The film was filled with “Madmen” and Jon Hamm (Stolen) is no exemption! He portrays FBI Special Agent Adam Frawley who literally takes his job seriously; he was a fan favorite to be the next “Superman” though not gaining an audition, he could settle working at street level in fighting crime.

On the other hand, Jeremy Renner (The Hurt Locker) is back in his villainy role since his dog days in “S.W.A.T”, he portrays Doug’s bestfriend James Coughlin the impetuous gang member who never backs down to no one even to his best friend! These two were the best performers in the film, seeing they roam around Boston literally working on both sides of a coin. Relentless and fixated to their ideals they did their parts “to a T” not over the top nor was it cheesy!

The sober but adequate Blake Lively (The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants) at least for this film! Krista Coughlin, a former lover of the lead actor and sister to James who at least I found has the acting capacity and be genuine enough to make it work. She can definitely be into drama where she will find better offers in the next few years. While Rebecca Hall (Vicky Cristina Barcelona) flaunts her career with near perfect portrayals. She portrays a Bank Manager named Claire Keesey, so naive, predictable and most importantly forgiving!

The story was ardently schemed moreover since it was based on a book with crime as its catalyst; there was already a hint of proverbial morality injected to make it additionally interesting. While it succumbed to controversies linking bank robberies in different countries for the past few years, it only suggests how human nature works when it is pushed to its limits!

I used to remember about the famous robber from Australia named Ned Kelly which was made into a film with the late Heath Ledger who had a last stand with the Victoria Police wearing body armor and a head plate. While two of the best actors in film history got on their cat and mouse chase in the prolific film titled “Heat”, a story regarding another bank robber named McCauley played by Robert De Niro which was loosely based on true accounts from former real life Chicago Detective Chuck Adamson and lastly, Johnny Depp portrayed John Dillinger in the film “Public Enemies” with the same Director Michael Mann.

Everybody needs a second chance to be part of society and be absolved from past sins. But not everyone has that same standpoint where each individual walks away thinking that they have paid their dues more so with the people and the law that presents itself when needed. Overall, it was gritty, stunning and ego driven not contemplating on the action plus the drama but rather on its given mindset:  “I’ll see you again – this side or the other!”

Argo (2012)

Ben Affleck provides another “convincingly” gripping and powerfully triumphant film in all aspects…well almost!

Warner Bros. Pictures in association Smokehouse Pictures and GK Films present…

Based on the memoir of an ex-CIA operative titled “Master of Disguise: My Secret Life in the CIA” published in 2000 and Joshuah Bearman’s Wired article “The Great Escape” which was released in 2007. The film Argo a.k.a. “Lord of Light” from Roger Zelazny’s 1976 novel who recently won Best Picture for the Academy Awards is a historical drama that depicts the story from the rescue of 6 US Diplomat hostages who were forcibly sheltered at the Canadian Embassy during the Tehran, Iran hostage crisis in 1979.

The man who “assisted” in carrying out the rescue mission was Antonio Joseph Mendez, a former CIA Operative who specialized in disguises and graphical work related to espionage. His talent gave him credit in the Technical Services Division and had tenure with the agency for 25 years. With his creativity and resourcefulness, he finally was able to provide a divisive plan to extradite the Americans from imminent danger with special thanks to the sci-fi film “Battle for the Planet of the Apes”.

Golden Globe and BAFTA Award Winner for Best Director Ben Affleck (Sum of All Fears) this guy has been hauling awards for the past few years! His diversity for juggling writing, directing and acting at the same time did much good for his career considering that his father had the same talent while working in Boston’s Theatre Company. His love for film making had earned him accolades left and right which even gave him bigger offers and projects to work with.

Ben managed to oversee the film’s intricate plot that makes it overwhelmingly intact but   “misinterpreted” in context. While creating a montage of news and media coverage’s key points taken place at the U.S. Embassy to the post hostage crisis reports. He was able to “at least” send a “semi-generalized” view in rapport to the public.

Another award winning quadruple threat George Clooney (Syriana) together with Grant Heslov (Catch Me If You Can) and the Director takes the lead in providing the finances needed to make this project come into fruition. While Best Screenplay was given to Chris Terrio (Damages) who even for the lack of experience helped paved the way for the script to take shape (not to mention its “obscurities”) as well for William Goldenberg’s “golden” efforts in editing 2 nominated films from the same year with a difference of a 3 month span in relation to their respective releases.

Together with some very talented supporting casts, Bryan Cranston (John Carter) as “forged” CIA Jack O’Donell and former co-star of Jennifer Garner (Ben’s wife) in “Alias” Victor Garber (External Affairs) who plays Canadian Ambassador to Iran Ken Taylor. To round it up, veteran Actors Alan Arkin (Escape from Sobihor) portrays fictional Producer Lester Siegel and John Goodman (Masked and Anonymous) is film make-up artist John Chambers. Now, actually 2 of these guys were not real, noting also how ironic for an organization to honor an award to someone who was not actually there seems farfetched and unfortunate!

Here’s the thing, in film making you need to device your own ingenuity and imagination in order for the story to be relayed to the audiences but more importantly when this is being based on true events, the facts should be straightened out plain and simple and at best convey this as closely as possible to what actually happened. This was the same scenario in Ridley’s Scott’s “Black Hawk Down” where a number of soldiers and scenarios were mashed up and sensationalized just to add levity to the intense framework of the story. Argo had the same scenario with too much publicity and criticisms that were thrown at the film and its producers stating the inaccuracies of how the story was told and also why were other countries such as UK, Switzerland and especially Canada were not given “enough credit” for their “initiative” and “crucial” contribution in the seeming cohesive caper. To add, there was no “crucial moments” considered in the imminent last minute escape more so in their actual departure from the airport.

Another aspect is that I have watched Kathryn Bigelow’s “Zero Dark Thirty” which was based on actual events as well. In terms of getting swept away by the plot and narratives, it was slowly paced until it reached the inevitable climax but still had the necessary input to make the experience surreal in the perspective of the Director and Screenplay. But what I am trying to connect with this story is that both were great in their own way, had real element settings the difference was Ben and his crew had more visually concurrent turmoil and hostility where it had this overwhelming presence of people on both ends of the floor: one group filled with so much anger needs to validate the wrong doings of their former Ruler, bring him to court and be hanged while they still have to resort in killing people in order to accomplish this! On the other end, individuals in the middle of a crossfire fearing for their lives with just the clear intention of getting out of this country alive would just be an understatement.

We don’t need to argue how things turn out and who won and who didn’t. Important thing is we have the understanding certain people gave their time, effort and risking their lives in order to save others. Yes, there were inconsistencies, some important representatives were taken aside and a country was misinterpreted for their actions but this will not stop in the harboring of hatred just to compensate for justice and that is the real sad part of this story.  In finality, with words coming from Mendez’s given lines: “This is the best bad idea we have, sir.” and in response, frankly we still give a damn!

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!

Gangster Squad (2013)

Every man wears a badge and for these police officers and gangsters it’s all about just being knock-offs!

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Lin Pictures, Village Roadshow Pictures and Langley Park Productions present…

Inspired from the book of Paul Lieberman with the title “Tales from the Gangster Squad”, the film tells a story of an undisclosed task force mobilized to seek out and destroy Los Angeles unwanted migrant and pathetic boxer turned notorious gangster Meyer Harris “Mickey” Cohen!

Director Ruben Fleischer (30 Minutes or Less) who debuted in “Zombieland” falls short in his action crime take on a very reputable unit that makes even “The Green Hornet” more watchable than this losers rampaging in the streets searching for their so-called elusive justice! That is why I’m glad DC Comics and Warner Bros. did not push through with the services of the Writer seeing that he is not the right person to pen their most anticipated “Justice League” film, Will Beall (Castle) does not have the right cut and experience to bring together the iconic team to millions of fans let alone in his take on a police squad who only creates public nuisance and chaos while doing their jobs to protect the public!

It had a “Tombstone” and “The Untouchables” premise written all over it as they got the guns, the courage, the charisma and the ability to be cool and that’s all about it! With a poor script and worse an A-list of talent pooled together in one bloody mess, Gangster Squad takes the underwhelming action of 1940’s criminal underworld into a whirlpool of petty one liners, cheesy plot and a whole lot of anger coming from trigger happy freaks on both ends!

Josh Brolin (Men in Black III) has so much potential to be great and could still continue to be part of award winning actors if he can just get a break from his projects. Since his outstanding performance in “True Grit” and “No Country for Old Men” he had numerous offers in which one fail to impress the movie going public and in the box-office which was none other than “Jonah Hex”. In the film, he plays Sgt. John O’ Mara, a veteran from WWII with plenty of accolades and medals due to his exemplary performance in the field; he was commissioned by Chief of Police Bill Parker portrayed briefly by Nick Nolte (Mulholland Falls) to finally deal with this “eastern crook”. Now a time for reconstruction and public responsibility has set in new heights seeing that people will take advantage of economic growth in their respective cities!

Still ambivalent who just needs some persuasion and an epiphany, Ryan Gosling (Drive) takes on the mob headstrong while trying to be as suave as possible with the women! He portrays sweet talking Sgt. Jerry Wooters another war hero who sees life as it comes around, not much to deter unless provoked!

Speaking of provocation, who would not want to be in the arms of this generation’s rising star Emma Stone (Easy A) she plays Cohen’s squeeze and ethics teacher who soon falls in love that guy with the “photoshopped” abs in reference with their last partnership from the hit movie “Crazy Stupid Love”. Their chemistry here was insufficiently withdrawn and conveniently added to just have a screen couple setting sights for attention and escapism!

While rounding off the roster of this radical unorthodox squad is Anthony Mackie (Notorious) playing knife thrower Coleman Harris; my personal favorite Giovanni Ribisi (Public Enemies) as Conwell Keeler the brains of the group (I believe they all should…);  and screen veteran Robert Patrick (Terminator 2: Judgment Day) as the sharp shooting gangster killer Max Kennard don’t let me bring Michael Peña (Observe and Report) into the picture, he’s got talent but seriously poor writing just stomped his character and acting, he is Navidad Ramirez who’s best line was “I got the drop on you didn’t I?”. (for crying out loud)

Here we are, the toast of the town Sean Penn (I am Sam) is the only one who made this film at least believable in respect to its adapted novel and context. Born in Brooklyn, New York he found his way to work with the top of the business like Bugsy Siegel, Lucky Luciano and Al Capone. Setting sights in Los Angeles, he muscled his way into lucrative gambling sites, restaurants and dined with Sunset Boulevard’s most beautiful women! Sean has been a remarkable actor since his earlier days, he would have been more tangible if someone played the pudgy gangster with the likes of mob films familiar face Joe Pesci but he was able to pull it together bringing the crime boss susceptibility with his temper more than make–up  the abysmal script. (well, not all since his actual make-up was not necessary in my own opinion).

They were like terrorists and arsonists who burns every possible hideout of gambling and racketeering Cohen has while beating his people like crap just to say that you are being given a familiar gesture to either get out of our city, stop your illegal business and go to jail! How does the justice system works here if this undercover cops does more harm in the community when actually they should perform like real police officers to apprehend their supposedly target and not destroy public property or put in harm’s way  any civilians in their operations!

In the complete running time, three fourth’s of the film was so ridiculously show boating with a fan service effect that may have been at best cut off since the last quarter was meant for the impeccable penultimate where the bad guy gets the hand cuffs (or not) while synchronizing it with a final stand-off shoot out to avenge dead colleagues, loved ones and protecting those who are left at the cross fire.  So it goes without saying: It’s funny, you can never truly compromise with the devil but the only good thing is though not all are angels, you can still find one or two in the city of Los Angeles!

Rurouni Kenshin (2012)

Ruruoni Kenshin comes out with his head low but high in spirit. The wanderer has finally come home!

Warner Bros. in association with C&I Entertainment, IMJ Entertainment, RoC Works Co. and Studio Swan present…

Based from Nabohiro Watsuki’s widely popular manga that was later turned into the hit television anime series that gained a huge following from all around the globe! It tells a tale of a wandering Samurai named Himura Kenshin, a former assassin known to the public and his enemies as the “Hitokiri Battousai” which means ”man slayer”!  Abandoning his old ways, he vows to protect people by not killing anymore which became his mantra due to a terrible guilt that he needs to unburden even if it takes a lifetime to accomplish this.

His story so far…

The year was 1868 the bloodied hills commence, as thousands of lives lost in the Battle of Toba-Fushimi where a young warrior got a glimpse of his cause, used by his superiors as a weapon, he left the battlefield with one taught in his mind…vindication! But all things have their meaning and purpose as his sword struck the very ground where he let the lifeblood of his people drench in the cold winter,  a man walks away empty handed while another has found his own calling!

Former fantasy biker hero, Takero Satō (Beck) stars as Kenshin Himura the “heart of sword”! His take on the selfless and very determined protector has been unprecedented! With his fragile facade anjd small frame that hides the real warrior within he could never be deterred with his undertaking especially when he has someone worth fighting for! Emi Take (For Love’s Take) gives Kaoru Kamiya the kindred spirit that helps Kenshin move on with his life, her tenacity as a friend and as a person gives both lead casts to grow on their own without hogging the spotlight and getting too much attention.

On the other hand, what would be a hero’s journey if there is no one to hinder it? As villains are subjected to be stereotyped to have their minions surrounding them for authenticity, they give him a sense of validation to abuse and corrupt those who are beneath his feet! From supervisors serving as eyes and ears while others act as bodyguards for tactical reasons or simply used as muscle to take out any nuisances while “yes men”, repeating his lines and be just comedy relief for all I care!

The grimacing face combined with arrogance and lust for power makes Takeda Kanryū from Teruyuki Kagawa (Doing Time) more malevolent especially with someone who can use as a pawn to do his bidding like Takani Megumi, a doctor who was pushed to do a different kind of drug that can turn people specifically the “ronin” or samurais without masters with a lost cause,her role was imbued to Yu Aoi (Welcome to the Quiet Room)! The main objective is to rebuild Japan into his own image which it allows the story continuity and at the same time for struggle to exist so we can determine who wins in the end!

Other supporting casts like the Government’s loyal soldier, Captain Saito Hajime played by Yosuke Eguchi (Goemon) and the hard headed, hard hitting Sanosuke Sagara portrayed by Muneteka Aoki (Rise Up) held their own very well. Although with early disputes and points of view, this was set aside in order to deal with a greater threat, by saving someone and for their country to be free from tyranny and oppression once more!

Even the fight scenes with its choreography was brutally fast paced and well executed especially from Kenshin and Udō Jin-e from the talent of Kōji Kikkawa (Kamen Rider Kabuto: God Speed Love) who was very uncanny in terms of moves and costume which makes it surreal even more they were able to include the signature moves long seen in the anime series, ova’s and films while not relying too much on special effects and the use of stunt men or body doubles! The genre of creating a period film is daunting enough to express where revolution literally evolved a country torn by ideals and for them to embrace change in a new era has been manifested by these forgotten swordsmen!

There are so many aspects of the film that makes it work and with the proper delivery, choice of talent and direction, they were able to combine a spectacular performance that stayed true to its origins.  Directed by Keishi Ōtomo (The Vulture) who really captured the essence of Kenshin’s world, the action, the comedy and the love story between the hero samurai and his eccentric but mutually heartfelt love with a girl who now owns a handed down Kendo school!  Its transition from the pages together with the Director’s intuitive mindset helped make the film’s pacing very coherent while allowing the cast to further grasp with their characters through Kiyomii Fujii and Keishi Ōtomo’s screenplay as well.

From “Samurai X” which aired in mainstream television since January 1996 to September 1998, I followed the adventures of this journeyman that gave sense to “sacrifice” and how even for a little boy who got the chance to experience all the bitterness and pain was able to survive an ordeal that changed his life forever! I am not an otaku but it’s an understatement if people will call me unappreciative of anime!

With so much anticipation, I never thought that they would be able to create the same intensity and genuinity that these cast and production team has brought in the big screen!  You can easily follow the story without lingering too much on the VFX, the redirection of actual villains being given to supporting casts and how they were able to still incorporate a fitting climax with its ending.

A trilogy in the making, I can’t wait for the sequel and finally for a very long time a manga can be seen in the big screen without making it one dimensional! A wanderer with a heavy heart and a sword slasher coming into full circle…!

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!

IMAX: Bigger, Better and Louder!

  

The entry of IMAX technology made a huge difference in the film industry. This section will include the history, specifications, facts and how it defines the new age of film making.

In 1976, IMAX Systems started in Montreal, Canada where it was primarily used to film documentaries in sea and in space. Since it’s inception, IMAX has so much marketing and income potential with perceptive clients and innovative breakthroughs.

IMAX’s capacity for the projection technology is outstanding combining with a 15/70 film frame (it is 10 times larger than a 35 mm conventional frame and 3 times larger than a  standard 7mm frame) and with IMAX projectors, it gives the sharpest and crisp clear audio and visual experience for the viewers.

Here is how it works, using a standard film, it is only limited to a certain space and coverage of projected and captured scenario and it corresponds also to available sound that can be synchronized with the format. Wherein, using IMAX film formats, the amount of light captured in its given space combined with the sound gives it a more profound quality.

To explain further the technology of the sound system used in IMAX theaters, it is amplified by a multi-channel surround system composed of 44 designed speakers that enable up to 44000 watts of pure digital surround sound. To add, IMAX also made a Proportional Point Source loudspeaker that delivers the best sound quality to the audience wherever they may be seated.

Lastly, with the use of IMAX projectors and one of the company’s proprietary “Rolling Loop” technology, it gives the film a smooth flowing motion where each frame is properly positioned on a well stationed pins held against a rear element of the lens by a vacuum and that is why it has an outstanding picture clarity.

To discuss about their competitors, it shows that the technical standard is being compromised and tested in the market for moviegoers and IMAX needs to step up on the different marketing aspects of the industry to cope up with competition.

The companies are:

1. Regal Entertainment Group – one of the dominant theater owners within the US with a total of 7,334 screens in 588 theaters in 44 states. Their operations encompasses middle market, sub-urban and large metropolitan markets, focusing on developing and acquiring multi-screen theaters throughout the US.
2. SimEx-Iwerks – this company focuses on motion-simulation machines that cater on open and closed cabin designs perfect for museums, zoos, theme parks and the like. Main clients are Universal Studios Parks & Resorts and San Diego Wild Animal Park etc.
3. Dolby Laboratories – as they develop the High Dynamic Range precision capturing for their Dolby Cinemas, they plan to use this technology with AMC Theaters by 2024.

As of March 2007, there are a total of 280 IMAX theaters worldwide where 60% are located in the US and Canada. Also, to credit their unprecedented sales for the fiscal year of 2008 here are the estimated figures up to 2010.

Estimate Year	High Estimate	Low Estimate	Mean Estimate	Standard Deviation	Latest Estimate
2006	158	110.3	127.433	0	11/15/2006
2007	117.3	116.342	116.821	0.677	1/16/2008
2011	215.4	215.4	215.4	0	4/11/2008
2008	111.37	108.8	110.085	1.817	11/6/2008
2009	156.16	154	155.08	1.527	2/18/2009
2010	178.34	178.34	178.34	0	11/6/2008

The figures above shows how much confidence the market can depend on IMAX entertainment can achieve, also with a strong back-up from Hollywood and Directors the projects that will come with this technology will have great potential, furthermore with comic based films lining up for the big picture high income generation and profit is considered in the bag.

 IMAX’s PROPRIETARY LINE-UP:

 IMAX Cameras Specifications

•    Spherical lenses
•    70 mm film, 15 perforations per frame
•    Horizontal pull down, from right to left (viewed from base side) 24 frames per sec.
•    Camera aperture: 70.41mm (2.772″) by 52.63mm (2.072″)
•    Projection aperture: at least 20.3mm (0.80″) less than camera aperture on the             vertical axis and at least 0.016″ less on the horizontal axis
•    Aspect ratio: 1.44:1

IMAX Screens and Formats

• 8 stories tall by 120 feet wide
• installed in museums, commercial operators and science centers around the world.
• IMAX 3-D, these are screens specifically made for the type of film or format being shown. Under IMAX 3-D came the MPX and Solido where it was easier to put up, cost cheaper and rather building another theater from the ground up.

IMAX Dome / OMNIMAX

• special fisheye lenses
• lens optically centered 9.4 mm (0.37″) above film horizontal center line
• projected elliptically on a dome screen, 20 degrees below and 110 degrees above perfectly centered viewers.

IMAX DMR

• allows standard film formats to be digitally re-mastered to fit in IMAX screens.

Through IMAX, the movies we watch are more interesting, exciting and heart pounding, truly an unforgettable experience!

 SALES IN THE BOX-OFFICE

Since the fledgling days of comics being shown in the big screen, we can definitely see how its progress have been since the Superman made its debut in 1978.

When DC Comics started Superman, no one believed that a man could fly and through the “magic of the camera” (with the help of a few strings attached) a man can reach his full potential and be part of a new chapter in making movies based on beings no mere mortal man can accomplish alone.

Everything started to fall into place when Warner Bros. Entertainment made initiative with how films for comics should be made. Investing on the studios capacity and capability to enhance film making, WB Executives worked first with how to make this films get into the market thus forming good relationship with scriptwriters and directors that could take the bar higher than what competition is being given.

In 2005 WB also released Batman Begins in IMAX, which supported the film’s strong legs helping it reach $371.8M at the worldwide box office. Another decent film WB released was Superman Returns in 2006. The highly re-mastered film for IMAX and partially digitally film was transformed into 3D that made a fair amount of $391M.

Also, last 2008’s summer block buster The Dark Knight broke box office records in just a few weeks with a total of $998.4M helped the film industry reach its summit with IMAX as its forefront.

“The IMAX format provides audiences with an opportunity to further immerse themselves in the world of Batman and amplify their experience of his extraordinary story.” (Nolan, C 2005)

These films are examples on the evolution and the continuous development. The film industry is focusing on this medium on fictional characters in which imagination, innovation and technology when blended together can make a huge difference in the industry’s income potential.

 KEY MILESTONES IN BOX-OFFICE SALES FOR DC COMICS OWNED FILMS:

Source: Box Office Mojo

Note that films that were included contributed greatly to the revenue of DC Comics and Warner Bros. Entertainment. Also, indicated are films that were made through IMAX propriety.

But not all films have the same success, it bombed in the box office sales and was criticized harshly by both fans and viewers, the DC Comic based “The Watchmen” another film that is considered the “best graphic novel of all time” and boasts a stellar cast, a visionary director and of course with the use of IMAX.

With the provided stats and facts from DC Comics, they have the need to improve their marketability and sales through another source of distribution, there is indeed a need for improvement. Warner Bros. Entertainment and IMAX’s technology capabilities and capacity, they were able to recognize and rectify loopholes in the characters that DC Comics represent. Furthermore, this strategy has given more income potential to not just satisfy continuous production of comic based films but more importantly give the market a variety of products that will be patronized and remembered in the coming years. It clearly shows that there is an opportunity being recognized in the marketing strategy initiated by DC Comics.

The research process has given facts and considerations on how the alternative conditions should be made by DC Comics to capitulate to necessary changes and improvement in order for it to survive the industry. Though not final, but it has given emphasis on how they stayed in the game and helped the company get back to its feet once again. Hopefully, even with the negatively criticized Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, upcoming films such as Suicide Squad showing this August and next year’s Wonder Woman would be a completely different story.

As stated in the objectives, DC Comics was able to quantify the need for comic book sales projection because of strong marketing strategies in congruence with partnerships with the industry’s best talent has to offer. Second, it has also been laid down and implemented  the technology that is being used and in demand today, its well accepted and revered by the market! Third, varieties and quality of the products rendered are tested and well known thus giving a stronger implication on what it can provide for present and future consumers and lastly, the need to make proper decision making has given the power of merchandising and market recall the control over price and production thus meeting and exceeding the market standard.

We’re the Millers (2013)

While the comedy hurts rock bottom the family values remain “high”!

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with New Line Cinema, Newman/Tooley Films, Slap Happy Productions, Heyday Films, Vincent Newman Entertainment and Benderspink present…

Directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber (The Mysteries of Pittsburgh) with Screenplay and Story from Bob Fisher and Steve Faber of the infamous “Wedding Crashers”! The Director can do only so much and even with huge pool of talent in his backyard the film was only able to provide moments of chaos, ostensible adlibbed script and a premise that was forceful and forgettable! With the two “cohesive” writers add so much color to their work in giving a very delectable script that focuses on excessive sexual innuendo, lots of cursing and worse, in-depth drugs and illegal immigrant concerns from the south of the border where they actually serve as humor for everyone to see!

As on-going collaborations do count for hype purposes especially from great talent can be infectious and for the Miller’s I was really expecting this film to be another comedy hit since it reunites the critically panned but a box-office success “Horrible Bosses”! With stars like Jason and Jennifer at the forefront this time around and hauling two juvenile delinquents to cover their tracks as a squeaky clean family then you’re in for a treat or not depending on your preference!

When I saw the trailer, I thought this is going to be a riot since it always does show good parts but it tends to ruin it on the long run where there is just a limited amount of gags or punch lines just to entice the movie going public.  So without further ado…here are The Millers!

A fully pledged small time drug dealer Jason Sudeikis (Horrible Bosses) topbills this comedy flick as David Clark who runs out of luck when his apartment was mugged of his “stash and cash” and now needs to repay his filthy rich “Orca” owning double crosser and supplier Brad Gurdinger played by Ed Helms (The Hangover) by going to Mexico and bring back to the United States a ton load of marijuana!

So what do you do? You bump in to your neighbor who is actually a professional stripper and so you ask her to be your lawfully wedded wife, just kidding people no harm in dreaming! You try to convince her to get you out of a pickle by “pretending” to be the love of your life. Jennifer Aniston (The Good Girl) portrays Sarah O’Reily who coincidently gets evicted by her landlord and needs some extra dough or she’ll end up living in the streets like our next star…

With kids like Emma Roberts (It’s Kind of a Funny Story) and Will Poulter (The Son of Rambow) you’ll never have to worry about bad parenting! Emma has gone a long way and with genes running through her veins from well renowned Father Eric Roberts and his sister Julia Roberts what more can you ask for? She already has a very nice resume coming on her own to be distinguished as one of today’s rising stars, she can never go wrong well at least for the projects that she chooses from here on.

Her role was to play a runaway homeless teenager who has more guts than the boy who lives next door but everyone still needs food and shelter to survive this cruel world! While her right off the mill “brother” gets on the band wagon just because he’s the nicest kid on the block well, until he learned to count from one to three! The fabulous four come into terms just to get out of their own respective predicaments and find a way to survive their road trek ordeal.

But wait there’s more, it’s not enough that Pablo Chacon a Mexican Drug Lord played by Tomer Sisley (Sleepless Night) chases his “supply” around with his one eyed friend. The Millers also tailgates an obnoxious couple Nick Offerman (The Kings of Summer) and Kathryn Hahn (Step Brothers) plus their endearing daughter played by “Supergirl” Molly Quinn (The First Time) and you have the Fitzgeralds’ Don, Edie and Melissa! A kind family that is composed of a DEA Officer, an over eager Mother and a daughter who just wants to fit in a society where you can be called normal!

Jason still lights up that flair as he always have giving some levity to the dynamic between characters and for being the “padre de familia” with Jennifer by her side, she still needs to prove some box-office worth given in the last few years she has not been into a lucrative motion picture deal that the audience wants to talk about at least for the next twelve months or so! She kind of gotten stiff with all those years being wit h “Friends” and with whole lot of rom-coms that actually didn’t work makes it more interesting for her to find some form of life in her acting career! Emma on the other hand gives little credit for her role which she has done dozens of times before using brains and sarcasm to win her day and finally, for Will who by the way steals the show in his own sort of way by being in every ludicrous scenario which were either awkward, laugh out loud funny and genuinely sincere (awww!).

So verdicts says, it had its absurd with over the top shoehorned moments that just needs to be there to fill up character interactivity. To add more insult, it had a star studded ensemble that was wasted with its thinly written script and jokes that has a “been there done that” convolutedness. But on the “greener” side of things, it had good intentions to finish off the film in spite of not being officially off the hook when the primary cast was last seen to be seemingly having a happy life in a family oriented neighborhood for the next three to six months! Here’s mud in your eye…