Avengers: Endgame (2019)

Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo

Screenplay written by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely

Based on the Marvel Comics by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby 

Starring Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo and Scarlett Johansson

Caution for potential spoilers ahead!

11 years ago, Marvel released the first Iron Man movie, and nothing has been the same since. Every year since then, Marvel has released movie after movie introducing us to more and more amazing superheroes to fall in love with, and more villains to root against. Every year I kept thinking how could they top themselves, then they released last years Avengers: Infinity War which merged many Marvel superheroes including The Avengers, Black Panther, Doctor Strange and more. After that movie ended with such a cliffhanger, myself and every other Marvel fan have been eagerly awaiting Endgame-- dare I say, the glorious, bittersweet end to the past 11 years. 

The movie begins just a short amount of time after the tragic events at the end of Infinity War. The remaining Avengers; Steve Rogers (Chris Evans), Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo), James Rhodes (Don Cheadle) and Rocket (voiced by Bradley Cooper) are joined by Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.), Nebula (Karen Gillan) and Captain Marvel (Brie Larson) and together they plan to track down Thanos (Josh Brolin) and steal the infinity stones to reverse the actions they caused. After Thanos reveals that he already destroyed the stones, Thor kills him. The movie then picks up 5 years later, with Scott Lang aka Ant-Man (Paul Rudd), returning from the Quantum Realm and proposing that they travel back in time through the Quantum Realm to stop Thanos from ever getting the 6 infinity stones. 

This movie is an amazing way to reward all the loyal Marvel fans who have been following these heroes for more than a decade on screen. Everything that happens in this movie is so incredibly satisfying for someone who has seen all the movies. The time traveling aspect may seem a little corny at first, but it is actually the perfect way to bring in some characters from all the other movies one last time, and to give some characters the happy ending they deserve. The merging between the different movies in Endgame is even better than in Infinity War-- as this time we get to see some characters from Thor, Doctor Strange, Captain America and even the latest lady hero, Captain Marvel. 

For those who maybe haven't seen every Marvel movie from the past 11 years, you will still thoroughly enjoy this movie you may just miss some references, or you may not cry so hard with nostalgia like the rest of us!  

The Marvel movies have always had a lot of comic relief thrown in with the action, but this one seemed to hit harder with the comedy. It seemed to hit harder with all the emotions actually. Thor brings a lot of comedy, since he is now an alcoholic with a beer gut and no more chizzled abs. His character has gone through tremendous loss and is experiencing a lot of guilt from not killing Thanos, so he is in rough shape in the beginning of the movie. But, his condition does give for some big laughs. Even though this film has less of the characters we know and love, it adds a few of the older ones we didn't get to see in Infinity War like Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) and Ant-Man. 

As fas as acting performances go, Chris Hemsworth wins the gold with his new version of chubby and sad Thor. Robert Downey Jr. brings some real change to Tony this time around, while he's no longer the arrogant and selfish man he has been in the past. Paul Rudd is fantastically hilarious again as Ant-Man, Mark Ruffalo brings a new level of acceptance for being The Hulk, Scarlett Johansson brings a lot of emotion this time around to Black Widow, Brie Larson is a bad-ass as Carol Danvers, saving the day more than once.  The whole cast does an amazing job. I was so happy with the smaller cameos from people like; Tessa Thompson (Valkyrie), Rene Russo (Frigga), Evangeline Lilly (The Wasp), Hayley Atwell (Peggy Carter), John Slattery (Howard Stark) and Tilda Swinton (The Ancient One). 

The 3 hour run time may seem a little daunting at first, but it flies by with all the non-stop excitement. It pays homage to not only the Avengers but the Marvel Cinematic Universe, so brilliantly it will give you goosebumps, make you laugh and undoubtedly cry. There is a scene of the Marvel women all together that did all three for me actually, I thought I would combust. 

10/10

Widows (2018)

Directed by Steve McQueen

Screenplay written by Steve McQueen and Gillian Flynn

Based on "Widows" by Lynda La Plante

Starring Viola Davis, Liam Neeson, Michelle Rodriguez and Elizabeth Debicki 

Normally, a crime drama movie like this isn't really up my alley. Not to say there are not plenty of crime based drama movies that are very good and suspenseful, it's just not a genre of movies I enjoy that much. I gave Widows a chance because 1. It was free to watch on a flight I was on, and 2. It is starring Viola Davis. Any movie that features Viola Davis yelling and slapping people, and is readily available for my free entertainment, is a movie for me.

Set in modern day Chicago, the film follows three women; Veronica (Viola Davis), Alice (Elizabeth Debicki) and Amanda (Michelle Rodriguez)-- whose lives are connected by the sudden deaths of their husbands, whom were all working together on a heist. When Veronica learns that her husband Harry (Liam Neeson) owed 2 million dollars to a malicious crime boss and politician, she enlists the help of the other widows whose husbands were involved with this shady activity. The women must attempt to pull off a 5 million dollar heist to pay off the dangerous politician and keep their own lives afloat.

Widows has a few sub-plots that were kind of confusing. Colin Farrell has a role in the movie as another politician who is running against Jamal Manning (Brian Tyree Henry), Carrie Coon plays another widow who never really becomes involved in the heist but still makes a few cameos in the movie. There was just too many stories all trying to connect and it got a bit confusing and cluttered at times. However, McQueen sets out to make an entertaining, crime thriller and that is what he does successfully. With previous titles like the Indie drama, Shame and the Oscar winner 12 Years a Slave, McQueen brings us something very different from his past work with Widows. 

The cast is what ultimately brings life to this movie. While Davis brings so much strength to anything she even makes a small cameo in, its the supporting cast that really impressed me. Elizabeth Debicki's character goes through some real development while she starts out as a damaged, vulnerable widow and turns into this bad-ass independent women. Michelle Rodriguez brings her normal level of feistiness. Daniel Kaluuya plays the henchmen for the crime boss, and his character is devilishly psychotic.

Overall this movie was satisfying, with the tension building up the whole movie to a very suspenseful ending. Sure there are a few plot holes, but in the end who does't love the idea of a group of bad-ass widows taking on one of the scariest crime lords of Chicago. Definitely a better female driven heist movie than Ocean's Eight. 

6/10

Someone Great (2019)

Directed by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson

Written by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson 

Starring Gina Rodriguez, LaKeith Stanfield, Brittany Snow and DeWanda Wise

Netflix's newest original movie, Someone Great unfortunately is not something great. Gina Rodriguez was the only factor drawing me to watch the movie, given the trailer doesn't really scream "I'm the next greatest romantic comedy."

The movie, set in New York City, follows Jenny (Gina Rodriguez), a music journalist who is fresh out of a 9 year relationship after her boyfriend Nate (LaKeith Stanfield) would not agree to move to San Francisco for her new job, let alone even try long distance. Heartbroken but trying to make the most of her final days in the city, Jenny and her two best friends, Blair (Brittany Snow) and Erin (DeWanda Wise) partake in one last wild night together in NYC. 

Someone Great's plot is rather thin and not very interesting. It's essentially the three girls trying to score concert tickets while getting high a lot, drinking a lot and occasional flashbacks to Jenny and Nate's relationship. I understand that it's a "moving on" story, but I'm just a little tired of movies where the main plot line is, having a wild night. Aside from that, the montages of Jenny and Nate saved the movie a little bit. The chemistry between them is believable, and they're scenes together were always very adorable, so that did make me feel something. 

I wasn't that connected to any of the characters either. While I was attached to the idea of Jenny and Nate's love, Gina Rodriguez's character was kind of annoying outside of the relationship. Jenny is supposed to be this music journalist who is going to work for Rolling Stones but thats the first and last you ever hear of her passion for music. Blair was the uptight friend with a bit of a wild side and Erin was the "go-with-the-flow" friend who did have some commitment issues. That's really all the information about the girls we get though. We also get some random cameos from Rosario Dawson and RuPaul? 

Also, does Robinson not know how female friends act with each other? It seemed like she was constantly trying to remind us how close their friendship was because they were constantly exchanging "I love you's." Nobody is saying I love you to their friends that often. 

While this movie made me chuckle a couple times, the comedy was usually a little cringeworthy. This film's biggest selling point is the love story between Nate and Jenny. Even though it begins with their break-up, the flashbacks to their story is actually very endearing to watch. The soundtrack is also really great. Sadly, this movie just adds to the semi disappointing recent track-record of Netflix original movies. 

5/10

A Quiet Place (2018)

Directed by John Krasinski

Written by Bryan Woods, Scott Beck and John Krasinski 

Starring John Krasinski and Emily Blunt

The plot of this film drew me in so immediately I was practically running to the theaters to see it when it first premiered. Silence is literally survival in this post-apocalyptic world now ruled by creatures that hunt by sound. Throw in that John Krasinski's name is attached to this film everywhere, including a starring role alongside his fantastic wife, Emily Blunt-- and you've got a great movie. 

Set in what we are to believe is the near future, the film follows the story of a family who is doing everything they can to survive in this dystopian world with creatures lurking in every shadow. These creatures are cold-blooded killers who hunt by sound, so this family must keep completely silent at all times if they want to survive. 

First off, huge props to Krasinski for bringing us this mega suspenseful horror film, when his previous big credits include playing Jim on The Office. Not to say I had no faith in his directing and writing abilities, but going from the goofiness of that show to this, is a huge leap. Krasisnki does a fantastic job at conveying how important utter silence is. He even goes to extreme lengths as to have the family walking around barefoot the whole movie, because even the crunch of a leaf under a shoe would draw those creatures in. The family spends most of the movie speaking in sign language, so most of the actual sound is background noises, the monsters, or the occasional whispers of the humans. Even with that though, this film is so suspenseful and keeps you on the edge of your seat grabbing the friend next to you at every big scare. 

Another great aspect of this movie, is its focus on the family and not the monsters. A Quiet Place begins in the aftermath of whatever apocalyptic hell brought on these monsters, so we never really learn there origin, but I like it that way. It's not about the monsters, it's about the family who is defying the odds and adapting to survive in spite of the new inhabitants of the world they once knew. It's about the parents raising their young children in silence. This movie is not only scary, but it has a great storyline and the way things pan out isn't overly corny like some monster movies tend to be. 

John Krasinski does a great job in this movie, but Emily Blunt-- his wife in the film and in the real world-- is the shining star. Her characters displays such a wide array of emotions. The scene where she has to deliver her baby in silence in a bath tub, was enough to grant her an Oscar nomination, I think she may have been snubbed with that one. Her and John Krasinski obviously have great chemistry in the movie too, which is a benefit of casting yout actual wife to play your wife in your movie. Good thinking Halpert. 

A Quiet Place is a masterpiece horror flick. It even has some raw emotion, I couldn't believe I found myself tearing up at the end. 

9/10

Us (2019)

Directed by Jordan Peele

Written by Jordan Peele

Starring Lupita Nyong'o, Winston Duke, Elisabeth Moss and Tim Heidecker

This new psychological thriller is the newest creation from the great mind of Jordan Peele, who brought us Get Out. Us works on so many levels, and will keep you speculating on the meaning behind everything. Peele gives a nod in many scenes to films that have inspired him, like The Shining-- and like The Shining this film will keep you guessing on the edge of your seat. 

The story follows Adelaide Wilson (Lupita Nyong'o), her husband Gabe (Winston Duke) and their two kids Zora (Shahadi Wright Joseph) and Jason (Evan Alex). The family returns to the beachfront home in Santa Cruz where Adelaide grew up. Being back to her childhood home isn't all great memories for Adelaide, as she went missing when she was a little girl after wandering away from her parents on the boardwalk into a fun house. While trying to relax with her family and their friends the Tyler's (Tim Heidecker and Elisabeth Moss), Adelaide can't help but shake the feeling that something is going to happen. Her worries become a reality when four doppelgängers break into their house in the middle of the night, ready to wreak havoc on the family. 

Wether it was paying homage to movies from the past with a reference from Home Alone or with a brief scene of the family's car driving through the hilly forest to their vacation home, much like the Torrance family in The Shining driving to the hotel-- Peele left us with lots of fun easter eggs to unveil. There is so much speculation to be pondered with the meaning behind this sinister group of doppelgängers harassing this seemingly nice, middle-class family of four. A movie that from the trailer looks like a simple home invasion thriller like The Strangers, is really much more. Maybe Peele is trying to show us how we as a society view foreigners in our own country like invaders in our own home, when they're really no different than us. 

This film left the actors a fantastic opportunity to shine, while playing two versions of themselves. Duke as Gabe is a goofy dad who shows off some mighty comedic chops, unlike his first big role in Black Panther, but as his evil counterpart we see a big, silent monster who stops at nothing to try and harm his adversary. Both the children in this movie do such a good job playing the two roles. Evan Alex's doppelgänger, Pluto, is an animalistic demon who likes to play with fire and Joseph's Umbrae is a creepy version of her own self who can run laps around Usain Bolt. Perhaps the best performance from the movie though is Lupita Nyong'o. As Adelaide she is a worried mother who is suppressing some serious childhood trauma, but as Red she is terrifying. She wields a pair of sharp scissors and wide curious eyes, assisted with a raspy breathy voice that will make your skin crawl. I would be shocked if there wasn't already Oscar gossip for her performance. 

The cinematography and score really add to the element of horror in this film as well. You can tell that Jordan Peele is really flexing his horror movie biceps with Us. Seeing what he will come up with next after his first two big hits, now that will be interesting. 

8/10

The Silence (2019)

Directed by John R. Leonetti

Screenplay written by Carey Van Dyke and Shane Van Dyke

Based on the novel by Tim Lebbon

Starring Kiernan Shipka, Stanley Tucci, Miranda Otto and Kate Trotter 

After reading the book by Tim Lebbon,  I was really excited to learn that it was being adapted into a movie made for Netflix. While Netflix's track record for horror movies has not been too great after the failure of Bird Box being adapted from its novel, I still decided I had to give this movie a chance. Especially since it stars Stanley Tucci. 

The story follows 16 year old Ally (Kiernan Shipka) who lost her hearing in a car accident at the age of 13, and is now deaf. The world suddenly becomes under attack by creatures called "vesps" that were released from caves, and hunt only by sound. Their only solace in this new world of destruction is silence. 

If this plot sounds oddly familiar to you, thats because it is basically the same as John Krasinski's A Quiet Place. While you can't call The Silence a total rip-off because it was adapted from a novel that was written before the release of A Quiet Place, it is really bad timing and a horrible coincidence for this new movie. The only real difference between the two movies is this one is set while the apocalypse happens rather than in the aftermath. The whole movie seems to be racing to the finish line, with a short 90 minute length, it seems like it could've been an episode of a TV show. There was a random sub-plot about an antagonist religious cult of some sort, that was trying to kidnap Ally? That seemed a little rushed and too random.

I try not to be too critical upon movies based on books leaving out things from the book because let's face it, you can't include every little detail. There's gotta be some differentiating between the novel and movie adaptation. However, this movie had some drastic differences like being set in an entirely different country for one.

This movie wasn't all bad though, regardless of the lack of horror and suspense-- I am still a sucker for a post-apocalyptic movie, so I enjoyed that aspect of it. Stanley Tucci and Miranda Otto did a good job as the parents of Ally.

5/10

Legally Blonde (2001)

Directed by Robert Luketic 

Screenplay written by Karen McCullah and Kristen Smith

Based on the novel by Amanda Brown 

Starring Reese Witherspoon, Luke Perry, Selma Blair and Matthew Davis

What do you do when your Harvard Law bound boyfriend dumps you because you are essentially too much of a shallow blonde? You apply to Harvard Law yourself and get accepted to show him up like Elle Woods does! Yes I know, this story is a little corny and cliche, but its just such a fluffy feel good movie, you can't help but love it. 

As I said before, Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) is your typical blonde sorority queen, who is dating the perfect guy, Wes Warner (Matthew Davis). When Elle is expecting a proposal, she gets dumped because she doesn't fit his blue blood family of lawyers. So Elle does what any girl would do to show her ex-boyfriend she is more than just a Gucci handbag, she applies to Harvard Law herself and gets accepted only to find out Wes has a new fiance, Vivian (Selma Blair). But Elle learns much more about herself while at Law school, than she anticipated. 

Okay, so this movie isn't the most complex. It does not work on many levels, it doesn't have amazing Oscar winning performances (although Witherspoon did snag a Golden Globe nomination). The storyline is very predictable, but it's just so innocent and cute, it's impossible to hate. Reese Witherspoon makes Elle very charming and likable, and you find yourself rooting for her the entire movie. You want her to get the guy and stick it to the old professor and win the jury over for her client.

 Reese's acting performance is really the only one worth mentioning. There is a slew of other big names thrown into the mix like Holland Taylor, Victor Garber, Luke Perry and Ali Larter-- but they're all just supporting characters who add to the fluff of the movie. 

If you want a goofy comedy that's riddled with stereotyped characters and incredibly easy to follow-- this is the flick for you. It definitely leaves you satisfied, but in a way a peanut butter and jelly sandwich would, not a steamed lobster dinner. 

6/10

A Simple Favor (2018)

Directed by Paul Feig 

Screenplay written by Jessica Sharzer

Based upon the novel by Darcy Bell

Starring Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively and Henry Golding 

A sheltered mommy-blogger who is formerly a widower and spends all of her time devoted to being a mother, befriends a mysteriously beautiful business women who drinks martini's for breakfast. The trailer for this movie gives you no other information other that that, and if you haven't read Darcy Bell's novel, then this film's plot is an utter mystery thriller to you. Add that Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively are in the starring roles, and I'm buying my ticket. 

As I mentioned prior; Stephanie (Anna Kendrick) is a single mother with a parenting vlog who devotes all her time to her young child and her fellow mommy viewers, trying to forget her past. She meets a fellow mom from her kid's class, Emily (Blake Lively) who is a secretive upper-class women that may be a little less devoted to the life of her child. When Emily goes missing, Stephanie makes it her mission to uncover the truth. 

This thriller does have an interesting plot with many twists and turns that kept me on my toes the whole movie. While you're following the mystery behind Emily's disappearance, you are also learning about some dark revelations from the past of both the women. While Stephanie's sub-plot ends up being a little flawed, given they start to delve into it and it ends up going nowhere, it still gives you an idea of how it shaped her now and makes her character more complex.

Stephanie's character is a little awkward and over the top at times as she is a walking stereotype of a stay-at-home mother. However when you put her next to the confidence and pose of Emily, its a brilliant combination. The two women are so different, yet very similar as they both have skeletons in their closets and imperfections they bring to the table.

 Anna Kendrick has always been one of my favorite actors, and though I had never actually seen many things with Blake Lively her style and sophistication always attract me like a bee to honey. They complimented each other perfectly in this film. I think playing an upper-east sider with gorgeous fashion was familiar territory for Lively having played Sarena on Gossip Girl for years, so she fit this role like a glove. Kendrick seems to play roles as the chipper naive girl a lot, so she fit well in Stephanie's shoes. Henry Golding in the supporting role of Emily's husband is good too. 

7/10

Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

Directed by David O. Russell

Screenplay written by David O. Russell 

Based on the novel written by Matthew Quick

Starring Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro and Jacki Weaver

Silver Linings Playbook will always be one of those movies I come back to periodically because of the outstanding acting performances. The satirical take on mental health that Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper display is so entertaining, and the story between them is hilarious and charming. One of David O. Russell's best. 

After a brief stint at a mental hospital, Pat Solitano (Bradley Cooper) is released and sent to live back in Philadelphia with his parents (Robert De Niro and Jacki Weaver). After beating up the lover of his ex-wife Nicky, which is ultimately what led Pat to the psych ward with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, he is set on a new path of healthy living and silver linings, and he is determined to win back Nicky. Along the way, Pat meets the mysterious and sexy, Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence) and things are never the same after that.

This film is heavily driven by the acting performances. The former Hunger Games heroine Jennifer Lawrence, delivers the role of a lifetime. She's foulmouthed, sexy, rude, blunt, sensitive, vulnerable and a little slutty but she likes that part of herself (not a judgment, just a reference from the movie). Lawrence somehow portrays all these emotions in every scene, sometimes in every sentence Tiffany speaks. This was one of the most deserved Oscar wins of all time. Cooper plays a damaged guy suffering from bipolar who is largely driven by his lust for love and forgiveness from his ex-wife. His performance is raw and funny, but Lawrence steals the show. De Niro and Weaver deliver strong supporting performances as Pat's parents.

Only in Hollywood can mental illness be cured by the depths of this endearing romance between two broken souls. Russell sets a new bar for romantic comedies to rise to with this flick.

9/10

Unicorn Store (2019)

Directed by Brie Larson

Written by Samantha McIntyre

Starring Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, Joan Cusack and Bradley Whitford

This film originally premiered at the 2017 Toronto International Film Festival and didn't reach the public eye until it hit Netflix in early 2019, and I think there is a reason for that. For a film to open at TIFF and then skip theaters and go to Netflix isn't necessarily a bad thing, with Netflix producing many good movies now-- but Brie Larson's directorial debut unfortunately is not one of those quality Netflix products. 

Unicorn Store is about a woman named Kit (Brie Larson) who is a kid at heart. After Kit is dismissed from art school she moves back in with her parents (played by Bradley Whitford and Joan Cusack), where she decides to join a temp agency and work at an office job. At this job she is tasked with pitching a campaign for a new vacuum cleaner, when she receives a mysterious invitation to "The Store" where she meets the salesman (Samuel L. Jackson). He tells her that she can make her childhood dreams come true and be the proud new owner of a unicorn, if she follows a few demands first. 

I wanted to like this movie so badly, considering how much of a Brie Larson fan I am. After her monster of a great performance in Room and other great movies like Short Term 12 and Trainwreck, I had high hopes for her starring role in this as well as first time directing. This movie wants to be a quirky, weird coming-of-age story but it doesn't achieve that. Most of the time it's really corny and just a little awkward, frankly. Half the time I was confused wether this was supposed to be a kids movie, because of how much it really focused on glitter and unicorns. 

The characters don't have much depth either. Kit is a young women who doesn't want to grow up, and is obsessed with glitter and wacky outfits and getting a unicorn. She's not your average character from a coming of age movie who just does not want to grow up, she's just immature and we never really get to know where that personality came from. However, that isn't a negative testament to Larson's acting performance in the film. Kit is a young-spirited, optimistic women and that is definitely portrayed throughout the movie. Larson gets a chance to show her comedic skills off a bit with her acting in this movie. The supporting performances were just okay. Seeing Sam Jackson in a pink suit, afro with strings of glitter, and selling unicorns was a bit out of character for him. A little too tacky for me, to be honest. But, you can tell how much fun he and Larson had making this, so that makes it better. Cusack and Whitford do well as Kit's parents too. 

Unicorn Store isn't an all bad movie. It has some funny moments, mostly from Brie Larson. It has some fun, aesthetically pleasing outfits and sets. The sub-plot of not wanting to grow up, and everyone having a little magic in them, is definitely a unique one. Just the delivery of it all is a little sub-par for me. 

4/10

Love, Simon (2018)

Directed by Greg Berlanti

Screenplay written by Elizabeth Berger and Isaac Aptaker

Based on the novel "Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda" by Becky Albertalli

Starring Nick Robinson, Katherine Langford, Jennifer Garner and Josh Duhamel

Based on the best selling novel by Becky Albertalli, Love, Simon is a great movie about friendship, your first love, and most importantly-- coming out! 

Simon Spier (Nick Robinson) is a normal high school boy living a pretty normal life; great family, great friends and just one big secret-- he's gay. Simon stumbles upon a post on his high school's Tumblr page written by a guy going by the screen-name of Blue, claiming he is gay. Simon reaches out anonymously to Blue under the name Jacques, and the two start to form a close bond over e-mail. While he tries to search for who the man behind the alias Blue is at school, Simon runs into some problems. He leaves his e-mails up on a school computer, allowing a nosey classmate to find them, and then his secret becomes threatened and Simon must come to terms with his identity. 

As someone who has gone through not only the awkwardness of having a crush in high school, but coming out too, this movie is very accurate. The mystery surrounding who Blue is, keeps you on your toes the whole movie, and when everything hits the fan your heart is breaking for Simon. Simon is such a likable character, even his actions that may be a little morally questionable are justified because of what he is going through. You root for him throughout the movie, and his love story with Blue over e-mail is so heartwarming and will make anyone feel nostalgic to their first high-school crush.

As someone who read the book, I was a little disappointed with how the movie ended. I can't go into much detail other than that, so as to not spoil it. Honestly though, when are movies adapted from books ever an exact copyright from the book? The book is 200 plus pages there's just no way to fit all that into a 90 minute movie. Berlanti does leave it off satisfyingly even if it strays from Albertalli's ending. Also, Simon is supposed to have a second sister that is totally left out from the movie. That was a big disappointment for me as his other sister was a great character in the book.

Nick Robinson steals the show as the lead for sure. His emotions really come through for a teenage boy struggling with his identity, and his first love, and coming out to family and friends. That's a lot of heavy stuff to work with, but he does it with grace. Simon's friends are all pretty second tier compared to Robinson. Katherine Langford does a good job as his best friend from childhood. Josh Duhamel and Jennifer Garner are charming as his goofy loving parents. Jennifer Garner has a very emotional scene with Simon later in the movie that is guaranteed to make everyone cry.

Pro tip: do not watch this movie on a crowded airplane with witnesses to your blubbering. 

9/10

Mama Mia! Here We Go Again (2018)

Directed by Ol Parker 

Screenplay written by Ol Parker

Story by Richard Curtis, Ol Parker and Catherine Johnston

Based on the songs by ABBA

Starring Amanda Seyfried, Lily James, Meryl Streep and Cher 

This movie is the perfect example of a sequel where a sequel was not needed-- but more ABBA songs, a prequel and a sequel in one and Cher making a cameo? Sign me up! Even if we never really asked for a sequel to Mama Mia, everyone was sure happy to get one. 

Set five years in the future after the first movie, Mama Mia! Here We Go Again, takes us back to the beautiful Greek island where Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) is preparing for the grand re-opening of the Hotel Bella Donna. This sequel also dives back into 1979 with a young Donna (Lily James), beginning her life after college by exploring what the world has to offer, and along the way meeting Sophie's three potential fathers. 

As much as the magic of an ABBA musical did steal my heart again, this movie had way more plot holes than the first installment. According to the original movie, Donna's best friends, Tanya and Rosie never met her boyfriends back in 1979. Donna also claims that her mother was dead in the first movie, but here we see her played by Cher. Maybe the assumption is that Donna met her mom was "dead to her" since she wasn't in her life but that still doesn't explain other things. I'm not even sure if Ol Parker watched the first movie before writing this one. 

All criticism aside, this movie was still very enjoyable for me. They incorporated almost all new ABBA songs, and the few they repeated were favorites of mine, so that is totally fine by me. The jumping around between 1979 and the present wasn't too hectic, it was actually beneficial to the story progressing. 

This film brought many new characters as well, including Lily James as young Donna, and she did a great job. James is actually a decent singer and really captured the essence of a free-spirited Donna from the 70's. The two young girls who played Tanya and Rosie were really funny and must've taken a lot of Baranski/Walters mannerisms lessons before filming because the resemblance was uncanny. Almost too uncanny with the appearances though, as if Tanya and Rosie have had the same haircut for 30 years? Nonetheless, very good performances there. Amanda Seyfried has more of a chance to stand out in this one, even with the added cast members, and she gives another great performance as Sophie. As always, the three men (both young and old) are just fine. The younger versions of the men are actually better singers than Brosnan, Firth and Skarsgard. 

Sure, this revival may not have been needed, and sure it wasn't perfect, but it does what it needs to do which is leaves the audience feeling satisfied. The musical numbers are so much fun especially the ones with Lily James. This movie yet again left me with a huge smile on my face, and even a tear in my eye from nostalgia as they sang "Dancing Queen" again, which always has a special place in my heart. 

7/10

Mama Mia! (2008)

Directed by Phyllida Lloyd

Screenplay written by Catherine Johnston 

Starring Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, Pierce Borsnan and Colin Firth













Mama Mia! still remains in the top slot for my favorite musical, and maybe I am bias because ABBA is one of my all time favorite groups. This musical movie just tells such a fun story with great music to perfectly align with it, and a great cast-- whats not to love?

Sophie Sheridan (Amanda Seyfried) lives on a beautiful Greek island with her mother Donna (Meryl Streep), and the hotel they run. She is young and in love and soon to be married, and has only one dream-- that her father walks her down the aisle. The only issue is that her mother slept with three different men around the same time Sophie was conceived, so she is not sure who is her real father. Sophie invites all three men to her wedding assuming she will recognize which one is her father instantly, however that is not the case and the water gets more treacherous as Donna finds out her three ex-lovers are back.

While this movie can be a little corny at some times, it is just way too heartwarming to not make you smile ear to ear as you watch. The film has the great music of ABBA synched perfectly with its storyline in such a charming way that really keeps you hooked. The musical numbers are so lively and colorful, they make you want to get up and sing-a-long with every song. Not every cast member is the greatest singer; Amanda Seyfried being the best, Streep is just fine and Brosnan is really quite bad-- you can tell how much fun they had so it's fine.

Amanda Seyfried did a great job in her main role, really proving she can be more than just the dumb blonde in Mean Girls. While she brought the great singing to the movie, Christine Baranski as one of Donna's best friends brought the laughs. Her and Julie Walters together really made every scene they were in much better with their goofiness. Meryl Streep also did great as Sophie's mother, great enough to be recognized at the Golden Globes that year? Maybe not, but Streep gets award nominations for leaving the house so who was really shocked by that.

This will always be one of those comforting movies for me that doesn't fail to bring a smile to my face-- especially when they sing "Dancing Queen."

8/10

Coco (2017)

Directed by Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina

Screenplay written by Adrian Molina and Matthew Aldrich

Original story by Lee Unkrich, Jason Katz, Matthew Aldrich and Adrian Molina 

Starring the voices of Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt and Alanna Ubach 

When this movie first came out I didn't jump to go and see it in theaters and I highly regret that decision-- because as amazing as Coco was on a small laptop screen from Netflix, it had to have been even better on the big screen. Coco is maybe my new favorite movie from Disney Pixar. 

It follows the story of the young boy, Miguel (voiced by Anthony Gonzalez) in his small Mexican village. Miguel wants to follow in the footsteps of the beloved late Ernesto de la Cruz (Benjamin Bratt), and become a famous musician. While music is his passion, it is strictly forbidden in his family of shoemakers, and they will not allow anything to do with it. Miguel will stop at nothing to achieve his dreams though, and on Día de los Muertos, he finds himself in the Land of the Dead, teaming up with a down-on-his-luck skeleton Hector (Gael García Bernal) to find his great-great-grandfather. 

Coco tells a story that has been done many times before in animated films that family is important, but it does it in such a engaging and unique way it feels like an entirely new story. This movie is incredibly charming and has many impactful messages about death, the importance of family, memories, following your passion and how love conquers all. The journey in this movie is so exciting and full of twists that adults and children alike can enjoy it.  

The musical numbers in this movie blends perfectly with the dialogue and embodies the spirit of Mexican music, really beautifully. I legitimately enjoyed many of the songs in this movie, especially "Remember Me"-- which Miguel does a great cover of for the movie as well. 

The characters in this movie are all so fun and eccentric in their own ways. There is a lot of character development, especially from the main character; Miguel. Hector, the gangly skeleton who starts out as the goofy sidekick becomes so much more by the ending, and his character was probably my favorite to watch. Even the supporting characters were so interesting and play an important role, like Miguel's relatives he meets in the Land of the Dead. The screenwriter's decision to have a blend of English and Spanish, was the icing on the cake of this film. You don't have to speak Spanish to know what is going on, it just adds to the authenticity of the movie-- which revolves heavily around Mexican culture and Día de los Muertos very accurately. 

Animation isn't always something I noice the quality of. A film is either animated or not. However, Coco has the most beautiful and detailed animation I've ever seen. From the vibrant colors of the Land of the Dead to the strands of hair on Miguels head, it is incredible. 

Fair warning, you will ugly cry by the end of this movie. 

9/10

Zootopia (2016)

Directed by Byron Howard, Rich Moore and Jared Bush

Screenplay written by Jared Bush, Phil Johnston

Story by Jennifer Lee, Phil Johnston, Josie Trinidad, Jim Reardon, Jared Bush, Rich Moore and Byron Howard

Starring the voices of Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba and Jenny Slate

Easily the best animated film of 2016-- this film is great for kids and adults all around. Zootopia tells the stories of animals in a very humanized seeming world, with many social issues that we are dealing with as a society today. It also has many genuine laughs, clever animal stereotypes and so much more. 

Zootopia is a mammal metroplis that is home to the largest of elephants, the smallest of mice, the slyest of fox and the slowest of sloths. Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) is a bunny who is new to the Zootopia police department-- the first bunny they have ever had on the force actually. Hopps soon learns how hard it is to be on the police force, and that she is constantly being underestimated because she is a small "cute" bunny (cute seems to be a hateful slur to bunnies in this universe). Set on a track to prove herself, Judy jumps at the opportunity to solve a mysterious case. She teams up with a wily fox, Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman) to solve the big case that even the chief of police (Idris Elba) cant crack. 

The film dawns on some pretty heavy topics such as racial and social prejudices. It sheds light on certain biological predispositions to crime from certain species. It states that everyone should have the chance to change what people think of them. The main characters face so much prejudice themselves, as Judy is always being overlooked in what she's capable of because of her stature and generally cute nature. Nick falls under that umbrella of a species who is predisposed to crime because he is a sly and sketchy fox. This movie sets out to prove that you cant change who you are but you can change people's perceptions of you. While the adults watching this movie may have a lot of underlying messages to uncover, there are a lot of laughs for the kids too. What is great about the humor in this movie is that it works on so many levels. For example, the scene with the sloths. Children will buckle in laughter over the notorious slow moving animals, but what the adults will enjoy about that scene is all the sloths in Zootopia seem to be working at the notoriously slow DMV. 

Aside from the humor and overall message from this movie, it also just has very great animation. The layout of the fictional and animated metropolis of Zootopia is very cool looking-- as well as the animation of the characters. Plus, we get Shakira as a gazelle singing a new song. So much to love about this movie! 

8/10

Instant Family (2018)

Directed by Sean Anders 

Written by Sean Anders and John Morris 

Starring Mark Wahlberg. Rose Byrne, Isabela Moner and Octavia Spencer 

This movie has a very heartwarming story that is honestly pretty original. You see so many comedies about parents who are struggling to raise a kid or multiple kids. They're "in over their heads," the kids are terror raisers, but in the end they become this big happy family with no issues. While this movie may follow a similar path to the cliched 'raising kids comedy', it has much more of an original story.

Pete (Mark Wahlberg) and his wife Ellie (Rose Byrne) are seeking something to fill a void in their marriage. They visit a foster care center, and begin to take the steps to fostering a child and maybe eventually even adopting one. The couple finds themselves at an adoption fair where they have a chance to meet prospective children to enter their lives. The two notice a group of teenagers and are hesitant at first about taking in such an older child, until they meet Lizzie (Isabela Moner). They express interest of adopting Lizzie, a 15 year old girl who's mother is currently in prison after setting their house on fire with her lit crack pipe. There's one catch, Lizzie comes with two much younger siblings; Juan and Lita. Pete and Ellie decide to take on the challenge of being foster parents to all three children, and prove to themselves and everyone else that they can do it.

The movie is refreshingly honest about the hard truth about children in the foster care system. Children in the system may have been abused or struggling to cope with losing a parent or having a parent incarcerated. The movie does make light of these tough situations and brings some appropriate comic relief to them as well.

While the movie has two big stars in the lead roles (Byrne and Wahlberg), the shining performance comes from Isabela Moner. Lizzie has a very volatile personality. She is a teenager going through normal teenager problems plus being in foster care and having an addict mother in prison. Moner develops all these struggles into her character very well. Her character actually has a lot of depth-- while one second she may be slamming her door in Ellie's face the next second she is extremely vulnerable and sobbing. Tig Notaro and Octavia Spencer had a lot of funny moments as the two social workers. There was also one scene in the end with Joan Cusack, who makes any thing she appears in at least remotely better.

7/10

Ocean's Eight (2018)

Directed by Gary Ross

Screenplay written by Olivia Milch and Gary Ross

Starring Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway and Mindy Kaling 

An all female spin-off of the original Ocean's heist movies-- how could it get better than that? I loved the idea of this considering how much I enjoyed the original Ocean's Eleven. The a-listers they casted drew me in initially, the story of a gang of bad-ass women pulling off a huge heist starring eight of your favorite actresses? Sign me up!

Debby Ocean (Sandra Bullock), the younger sister of Danny Ocean, is freshly out of prison and has the idea for a diabolically brilliant heist that is five years in the making. She is going to convince Cartier to lend a $150 million diamond necklace to a hot-headed actress, Daphne Kluger (Anne Hathaway) for the annual Met Gala, where she will steal the necklace off the actresses neck. To pull this off, she recruits the help of a highly skilled team of women (including Cate Blanchett, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Awkwafina, Rihanna and Helena Bonham Carter). 

Aside from one big surprise towards the end of the movie, the heist seems to predictable and easy. The idea of stealing an ancient necklace off the neck of a vein actress at the Met Gala is very original and seems like it is going to be a challenge, but the women never really run into any problems. Maybe thats the point? They're so devilishly good at pulling off heists. It just doesn't lead to any real plot twists or major dilemmas, which is what Ocean's Eight was lacking. 

The performances weren't all shining considering the amazing line-up of women they got to fill the eight slots. I honestly forgot to even add Rihanna's name above at first, if that is a testament to the acting performances. I love Sandra Bullock, but her role was a little flat in this movie. She didn't have much going for her as far as emotions go. Most of the women were just heist movie stereotypes- the gadget girl, the mastermind, the sly and sneaky one. Helena Bonham Carter was my favorite performance of the bunch, as the wacky fashion designer. She often was stealing the show when she was on screen. Hathaway did a good job playing a vein actress which makes you ask if that's just her actual personality? Let's hope not. 

Despite the lack of nail-biting tension from the heist, it does keep you interested and wanting to find out how it gets pulled off. The film does have enough humor as well, to keep you entertained throughout. While it may have not lived up to it's predecessors, it did prove for a worthy 1 hour and 50 minutes of my time. 

7/10

Joy (2015)

Directed by David O. Russell 

Screenplay written by David O. Russell 

Story by David O. Russell and Annie Mumolo

Starring Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro, Bradley Cooper and Edgar Ramirez 

I have to start this review off with a brief disclaimer that I am extremely bias to anything starring Jennifer Lawrence, as she is one of my favorite actresses. Normally I wouldn't be drawn to a movie about a woman and the mop she invented-- but with Lawrence in the starring role, a supporting role from De Niro and David O. Russell in the directors chair again, what could go wrong? 

Joy is the real like story of Joy Mangano (although her last name is never actually mentioned in the movie). Joy (Jennifer Lawrence) is a mother of two, striving to make ends meet and keep her family together. She lives in a crowded house with her Mimi who has always encouraged the creative side of her; her mother (played by Virginia Madsen) who lies in bed all day watching soap operas; her ex-husband Tony (Edgar Ramirez) who is an aspiring Latino singer living in her basement; and their two kids. Add to the mix her father Rudy (Robert De Niro) who runs a failing garage with Joy's half sister Peggy. A garage in which Joy also runs the books for. With all the challenges in her life, Joy decides to follow her dreams and be the powerful matriarch and inventor that her grandmother always knew she would be-- by inventing a revolutionary new mop. 

The story of Joy rising to become this powerful business women and QVC Queen is very endearing to watch. Some people may criticize that the script focuses way too heavily on this dysfunctional family dynamic and less on the growth of Joy's business. While the dynamic of this chaotic family may overshadow the story of her entrepreneurship-- that's what makes the movie so entertaining. Would the audience really be as engaged if Russell had eliminated scenes with the constant one-upmanship between Joy and her sister and replaced them with more scenes with Bradley Cooper's one-dimensional character, in a board room or something? It's necessary to include the dysfunctional family scenes because it is what ultimately plunged Joy to success and made for more entertainment for the movie-goer. 

This film is dominated by Jennifer Lawrence's acting, and that is not just personal bias (okay, maybe a little). She gives a very strong performance as this business tycoon and matriarchal bad-ass. I will always like Robert De Niro and I would never speak ill of his performance, but I felt some deja vu with his character in Joy.  I don't know if its just in Russell's films or in general but I feel like I have seen him play this character before.  Bradley Cooper plays some sort of business guy who is high-up in QVC and ultimately holds Joy's fate in his hands on wether or not her product gets sold on the show. His character though is pretty lifeless in this movie. After the Lawrence/Cooper combo in movies like Silver Linings Playbook and American Hustle, I think we were all excited for a resurgence of the pair. This time around though, it was all Lawrence and no Cooper contributing to the acting performances.

Joy may not be the best work we've seen from David O. Russell, but it had a heartwarming story to tell during a Christmas release which is the perfect mood and timing of year for this movie. If Joy had been released earlier in the awards season-- say October-- then it would have been easily forgotten. 

7/10

Crazy, Rich Asians (2018)

Directed by Jon M. Chu

Screenplay written by Peter Ciarelli and Adele Lim

Based on the novel "Crazy, Rich Asians" by Kevin Kwan

Starring Constance Wu, Henry Golding, Michelle Yeoh and Gemma Chan

This film checks off all the boxes for a great romantic comedy. The only thing that really separates it from the rest of the pack is its entire Asian cast. Everyone seemed to love this movie, and I am a huge sucker for a cliche romantic comedy that leaves you with a couple tears in the end (which this did by the way). 

The story follows Rachel Chu (Constance Wu), an American-born Chinese economics professor. She is invited to travel to Singapore with her boyfriend Nick Young (Henry Golding) to attend his best friend's wedding, where she learns that he comes from one of Asia's most wealthy and prestigious families, while she came from quite the opposite. Once in Singapore, Rachel is targeted by jealous socialites and Nick's disapproving mother (played by Michelle Yeoh) who do not believe she is good enough for Singapore's most sought-after bachelor. 

The character's in this movie are not exactly super interesting and multi-dimensional. Maybe in the book there was more development of the individual characters, and maybe the book was not as riddled with cliches as the movie-- its hard saying having not read it. At times Rachel even seemed very lifeless and monotone, but maybe that is how her character was written in the book? If so, then hats off to Constance Wu!

 Regardless of the stereotyped behavior from most of the characters, Rachel was my favorite character. Her constant efforts to show she's worthy of Nick's love, her chemistry with Henry Golding, and her overall likability factor just made her stand out the most. Of course, she is closely followed by Michelle Yeoh who was perfect for the role as the cold mother. Honestly, I was on the 'Michelle Yeoh for best supporting actress' bandwagon from when I first saw this movie. If it weren't for Awkwafina delivering the laughs in this movie, it could have been a lot worse. She played Rachel's old college roommate, and she lighted the mood many times throughout the movie. 

All criticism aside, Crazy, Rich Asians isn't bad! It's one of those movies you can watch on a plane to pass the time, and feel delightfully pleased with. 

7/10

The Favourite (2018)

Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos

Written by Deborah Davis and Tony McNamara 

Starring Olivia Colman, Emma Stone, Rachel Weisz and Nicholas Hoult 

There are three reasons I watched this movie; it was free on a plane, I am a sucker for anything with Emma Stone and Olivia Colman gave one of the most endearing acceptance speeches ever at the Oscars. With those factors in mind, I went into it pretty optimistic. 

The film takes place in early 18th century as the country of England is at war with the French and an ill Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) occupies the throne. By her side is her friend, Lady Sarah (Rachel Weisz) who basically governs the country for the Queen while simultaneously tending to her poor health and bad temper. Then enters a new servant, Abigail (Emma Stone) who is charming and quickly becomes a new companion to the Queen as Lady Sarah is consumed by the politics of the ongoing war. 

I do not know much about the history behind Queen Anne or even 18th century England for that matter, however the story told by Lanthimos is quite interesting to watch. The movie is divided into eight different acts, and while the acts tended to drag on a little too long sometimes, I still remained attentive because of the three main women. The Favourite relies heavily on the characters and their intricate relationships with one another. You almost forget there is a war raging on outside of those royal hallways because these women's personalities are so bold you notice nothing else. 

Hats off to Olivia Colman for this performance. I'm not sure how accurate Lanthimos made this to Queen Anne's real personality but Colman made her such a fun character. Her random outbursts at the servants, her anger, her sadness, her giddy for playing with bunnies. She truly ran the gamut of emotions with this character and did it brilliantly. The supporting performances by Weisz and Stone were also very compelling and complemented Olivia Colman pleasantly. 

While the acting may get the gold, the costume and set design deservedly get the silver. I cant say with utter confidence what bedrooms looked like in the 18th century, or what Queens wore-- but if I had to make a guess this would be it! It was all beautiful, right down to the white wigs the men wore. I'm not always a big fan of period pieces from centuries ago, and that is not a diss at the wonderful aspects of this movie, it is just a personal preference. Perhaps that is why I wasn't always one hundred percent engaged, but the acting was fantastic nonetheless. Another great performance from Emma Stone and Rachel Weisz and lets hope the start of bigger and better things for Olivia Colman.

7/10

Black Panther (2018)

Directed by Ryan Coogler 

Written by Ryan Coogler and Joe Robert Cole

Based on the Marvel Comics by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby 

Starring Chadwick Boseman, Lupita Nyong'o, Danai Gurira and Michael B. Jordan

"Wakanda Forever"

The tag line of the movie, the fictional African nation, and 2018? This movie was easily one of the best films of 2018 and of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Fans of Marvel movies and movies alike can all join hands in praise for this wonderful adaptation by Ryan Coogler and Joe Robert Cole. 

After the events following the tragic death of his father King T'Chaka, T'Challa (Michael B. Jordan) returns home to the isolated but highly technologically advanced country of Wakanda, where he is to be crowned King. Taking throne may not be as simple of a task as anticipated, with factions within Wakanda threatening to fight the King for his spot. Black Panther must team up with members of the Wakandan special force called the Dora Milaje and C.I.A. agent Everett K. Ross (Martin Freeman) to prevent disastrous annihilation to Wakanda. 

The fictional African metropolis of Wakanda may be one of the most fascinating aspects of this movie, being disguised as a deprived third-world country that does not accept any sort of aid-- once you fly past a hidden barrier made of vibranium (the country's gold mine) you discover it is far more advanced than any other country in the world. While the plot of this movie is very interesting to follow, and the set design of the fictional country is amazing, the characters are by far the best part of the whole cinematic experience. Chadwick Boseman as King T'Challa/Black Panther is a very likable lead character. He has such conviction and pride for his country and will stop at nothing to protect it. Behind every successful man however is a team of badass women. T'Challa's younger sister, Shuri is played by a new-comer Letitia Wright and she plays the gadget girl, who is also this witty super genius. Okoye (Danai Gurira) is one of the members of the Dora Milaje, and has a blind devotion to the King and Wakanda that is admirable. I've barely scratched the surface with these character, as there is a slew of other a-listers and new-comers that make this movie what it is. We have Angela Bassett as the Queen of Wakanda, Lupita Nyong'o as Nakia-- T'Challa's love interest, Forest Whitaker as a village elder of sorts, Daniel Kaluuya from Get Out finds his way in there too. 

When talking about the cast though, we cannot leave out the fantastic Michael B. Jordan, who plays one of our villains, Killmonger. They really dive into the origins of Killmonger which actually makes you feel some remorse for him as the villain trying to take over Wakanda. Jordan gives us a really strong performance in this role, and makes for one of Marvel's best bad guys. 

Black Panther received a very deserving 7 Oscar nominations and 3 wins including a nomination for Best Picture-- making it the first super-hero movie to be nominated for Best Picture. Two of the wins at the ceremony came for its production design and costume design, in which the women who who 

won made history for being the first winners of color for these categories. This factoid just adds to the pile of what makes this movie so great. The amazing characters, the action, the music and the diversity. 

8/10