Top Ten Best Films of 2013 (Commentary)

5 Notable Mentions: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Captain Phillips, Prisoners, Much Ado About Nothing, and Upstream Color

10. Frozen

9. The Place Beyond the Pines

8. Frances Ha

7. Before Midnight

6. Fruitvale Station

5. Wolf of Wall Street

4. About Time

3. Gravity

2. Her

1. 12 Years a Slave

Justice League Dark; Vol. 2 The Books of Magic by Jeff Lemire (Comic)

Mr. Lemire takes the reins from Peter Milligan and crafts a very entertaining comic. Vampires are ravaging the Earth and only the Justice League Dark can save them. Constantine becomes the group’s center and Zatanna his love interest. I don’t read a lot of team superhero comics but I liked this one a lot. Sure many of the side characters are shoved aside but it’s practical when trying to orchestrate a complex narrative in such a compact style. I’m certainly going to keep reading this series, especially if Constantine is the leader. Grade: B+

The Sandman: Doll House by Neil Gaiman (Comic)

The second volume in Gaiman’s legendary comic is a must-read for anyone who treasures great storytelling. This one deals with Rose Walker, a dream vortex, and Dream’s duty to find her. Rose in turn is in search of her younger brother, Jed, who was taken prisoner by two escapees from the Dream Realm. There’s also the Corinthian, another escapee who has become a serial killer and an inspiration to other murderers. There are many wonderful characters and surprises in this book. My favorite tale is about Hob Gadling, a man that Dream granted eternal life and through history we get to see what Hob does with this gift. With only two volumes I can see why this series is considered one of the greatest ever (not that I had any doubts). And to think I have so many more volumes to look forward to. Yeah for not devouring these when I was younger because now I can really appreciate them. Grade: A

 

Santa Claus: To Tell or Not Tell (Commentary)

This is my first Christmas as a father.  I don't have any list this year.  What I do have is a question?  Is is wrong to lie to your child about Santa Claus?  He's too young right now but in a few years do I tell him the fantasy as truth and watch when he's five or six or seven years old and he comes to the realization that it was all a prank?  I'm not so cynical as to see the fun in Santa Claus.  There are many positive reasons to make a child believe in something magical.  It's just that someday I'll have to attempt to teach him that the magic he believes in is in him and it's a "real" magic of goodwill and celebration.  Yet isn't it a lie?  I'd rather have a relationship with my son where I'm 100% honest with him so he in return will be that honest with me.  Would I be depriving him of something festive if I tell him that, "Hey, the big red guy isn't real but he's an awesome character to inspire us."  I have some time to think about it.  I'm leaning toward just doing the traditional con but it feel so silly.  Who came up with this tradition anyway? 

Lord of Chaos by Robert Jordan (Novel) [Revisited]

The sixth book in the Wheel of Time continues to entertain and surprise. I really enjoyed this one. Rand holds the Lion Throne until Mat can find Elayne Trakand and bring her back to Caemlyn to become Queen. Meanwhile representatives from both divisions of the White Tower, the rebels and those serving Elaida, meet with Rand in hope of controlling him. Elayne and Nynaeve learn of a magical bowl that can take back the weather from the Dark One and restore it to normal. Perrin, pulled toward Rand, leaves Emond’s Field to assist his friend. But the turn in the book that’s quite brilliant is when Rand uses the false Dragon Mazrim Taim to create an army of men who can channel it’s a bold move and potentially dangerous. Again the narrative momentum in this series is strong as each character continues growing and new elements arise to challenge them. The climactic battle at the end is the most rewarding and violent of the series (so far). The suspense in the last section really is intense and very satisfying. Grade: A

Star Wars Forever (Commentary)

Star Wars The Force Awakens is only one year away.  It'll be a long wait but before we know it the next episode of the saga of sagas will be upon us.  To think after this we'll experience a Star Wars film a year.  Rian Johnson will follow up with Episode Eight, that's right the guy behind Brick and Looper.  Who ever made that call knows what they're doing.  Was it Kathleen Kennedy?  Probably.  She has always impressed me (except for that really bad adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender which we'll pretend didn't happen) and I have faith in her abilities.  Lucasfilm, so far, everything is lining up well.  One year from now I know where I'll be. 

Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly (Novel)

Michael Connelly writes a legal thriller introducing us to his newest character Mickey Haller, a defense attorney who drives around in a Lincoln conducting business from all over Los Angeles. While he believes his job is a noble one, he also believes he should be paid for his services. And if the right gig comes his way, he expects to be paid big. He thinks he found one in the case of Louis Roulet, a rich realtor accused of attacking a woman in her apartment and trying to kill her. It should be easy money because the girl is a prostitute with zero credibility. There’s just one problem. Louise might be more dangerous than Mickey could have realized. If you like fast-paced books with an exciting mystery and a very likeable hero then this should be right up your alley. It’s a solid thriller and proof that Mr. Connelly is a fine storyteller. Grade: A-

True Detective (Season 1)

This stand-alone HBO detective story is a remarkable achievement in direction and acting. Both Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson are working at the top of their game. McConaughey is gone and some remorse detective named Rustin Cohle radiates off the screen with haunted pain. Harrelson sheds any hint of his usual kind of character and is Detective Martin Hart, a womanizing dirt bag alcoholic that for some reason you still care about. Together under the direction of Cary Joji Fukunaga (the maker of the brilliant Sin Nombre) and from the mind of writer Nic Pizzolatto, we have us a dark, mean, journey into the heart of Louisiana where there’s a serial killer loose that no one believes is there. The look of this production is beautiful and dangerous, showing the industrial world collide with the swamps and shacks of another time. If the first couple of episode take a bit of time to get into, don’t worry, but the mid-point you’ll not be able to get the events that transpire out of your head. This is TV gold and it’s no surprise it’s from HBO. It’s almost good enough to get an subscription. Grade: A

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 (2014)

Having read the book I can see why it would make sense to divide this part of the story into two films. It also makes sense financially to do it. (Of course there’s always the possibility of other films to be made in this world, believe it or not. So more money can be generated later but you might as well double your profits when you’re hot.) That said, after watching the film, it does feel incomplete. This is certainly the first half of a film with a year-long intermission. That’s not to knock it too badly, for I did enjoy it and as an adaptation it’s pretty good. I would say it’s the worst of the series so far. There are scenes that repeat themselves and I would have liked to have spent more time with the other characters as well, for they will become important later. Finnick for example has an entire back story shoved to the side as background noise. Still it’s an engaging story with one of the best heroines in movies right now played by one of the best actresses in the business. Jennifer Lawrence is the kind of star you can’t take your eyes off of. She’s a brilliant actress who gives every moment her all. If not for her this would be a far less interesting franchise. Francis Lawrence, the director, feels like he become very comfortable with this world. I’m confident when I watch Part 2 of this story he’ll be making something truly epic. I can’t wait. Grade: B+

Star Wars The Force Awakens (Teaser)

I finally saw the Star Wars Teaser and on the big screen. Here is my review of it. Which is silly because it’s only a teaser; but in my excitement for Episode 7, or officially known as The Force Awakens, I feel like I have to say something about it. If a teaser’s job is to get you excited about a film then this does exactly that. As soon as the Millennium Falcon appears, you know it’s really happening—a new Star Wars film. When it ended the smile on my face was proof enough that LucasFilm succeeded at pumping up my already inflated enthusiasm. Yet it is really short and I would have loved a couple better moments to splice in there. Here’s a breakdown. The voice over: it’s well-written and well-executed. I found it a better choice than using text. It fits the mood of the teaser perfectly. The opening shot: the desert sands and suddenly John Boyega pops up with intense concern. It’s a really great immediate shot that succeeds to jump starting the teaser. Next shot: the ball-like droid rolling across the screen. Yes, I like it. It’s a cool bot and it gives a sense of playfulness that I hope the film makers don’t forget about. Then we have the Stormtroopers awaiting in a flickering light about to jump out of an airship. This is a horrible shot and the moment where I got really worried. Of all their footage, they picked to use this? I guess they’re trying to build suspense but it’s just a pointless reminder that we have Stormtroopers (as if Boyega wearing one didn’t do that already). And the camera work is shaky, and that has me worried too, really worried. Then we cut to Daisy Ridley jumping on a large very-cool-looking speeder and speeding away into the desert. Does this film actually take place in space or is it all going to happen on a desert world like Tatooine? Then we cut to Oscar Isaac flying an X-Wing across water. I wouldn’t call this moment a spectacular one but it’s kind of cool. Again I keep scratching my head. I remember one of the things I didn’t like about Star Trek In Darkness (directed by J.J. Abrams) is that so much of it happened on Earth. Please let there be some actually space in this new Star Wars story. Then we have a great shot as we follow behind a figure stomping through a dark forest. We don’t see their face but know as they ignite their three bladed lightsaber that this guy’s probably not good. Oh yeah, I’m really intrigued now and holding my breath. My hope that this film will be good just rebounded. And then bam! The Millennium Falcon flies through the clouds (again no stars anywhere) taking us on a spin as it dodges blasts from two approaching Tie Fighters; the Star Wars music erupts with celebration and then when it goes black and the title fades in. Thank you cinema gods, we are blessed. Again it’s not a masterpiece but it does what it’s supposed to do and for that I applaud LucasFilm. I like that it didn’t really show any of the characters we know like Han or Luke and instead introduced us to the unknowns. It was especially a smart move to hold back until the end to give us the Millennium Falcon. While I can’t wait to see more, as someone who dislikes trailers for showing too much, I might just stop here. It will be hard but the truth is if there ever was a film that didn’t even need a trailer it’s Star Wars. Everyone will see it regardless. Grade: A-

Interstellar (2014)

At last, a science fiction film that’s made with real physics in mind. At last we get to experience the way speed and gravitational forces can affect time. What director Christopher Nolan has done with this ambitious and tremendous work of speculative cinema is wondrous to behold. Fortunately I was able to experience this as it was meant to be seen and that was in an IMAX theater (a true IMAX theater with the 4 story tall screen). The word ‘awesome’ is overused a lot but here I really felt in awe. The special effects are bigger than life. The music my Hans Zimmer feels holy as if resonating inside a great cathedral. I really loved this film. If not for Birdman this would be an automatic best film of the year for me; it’s truly wonderful. The story follows an ex-astronaut named Cooper living on a farm in the near future, a future that no longer desires to explore space (or so it’s believed) and that’s going through an environmental crisis that could risk the lives of everyone on the planet. Cooper and his daughter will uncover a secret NASA base that is about to send a team to a wormhole near Saturn which will take them to a distant galaxy where there are three possible planets that can sustain human life. Now they need Cooper to pilot the space ship. Yet it’s a long mission that could last many years and Coopers daughter doesn’t want him to go. But he sees no other choice but to leave this family to save humanity. This father and daughter relationship is the center piece of the film and is beautiful and exciting to witness. And ultimately what makes this drama so rewarding is that it’s not about explosions and killer robots (the robots here are actually good and geometrically square and scene stealing characters) but about the human heart and the demand to explore beyond what we know and can see. It is a long film so for those who hate films being longer than two hours, be warned. I never once felt bored watching it and could have actually watched more. The end for example felt a bit rushed, as if Nolan could sense that it was going long and didn’t want to test his audience anymore. I think this was a mistake, a very minor one of course. There was some closure at the end that could have been elaborated. Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain and Michael Cain star and all give fine performances. Maybe this film will inspire some people to read some Kip Thorne or Brian Greene. Maybe this film will inspire a world to look up with curiosity and joy. The universe is a big scary place but that should never stop us from braving to explore it. Regardless how long it might take, it’s an important quest that will take many generations to face. Let us hope we embrace the challenge. If not we’re doomed to someday blink out of existence sooner than I think we are capable. Grade: A

Horse and his Boy by C.S. Lewis

I’m not sure what I thought of this third Narnia story. A boy named Shasta escapes a harsh Calormene adopted father with a talking horse named Bree on a journey to Narnia. They meet up with Aravis, a Calormene girl fleeing a marriage proposal from Ahoshta, and another talking horse named Hwin. They find themselves entwined in a battle, with the Tisrac’s son, Rabadash, leaving to invade his neighbors and conquer Narnia. It has some good moments but is certainly not as satisfying as The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. I will say that it ends well. I just wish the element of adventure was more consistent. Grade: B+

Rush (2013)

I don’t know anything about Formula One racing and until this film came along I could care less if I ever did learn something. But with Peter Morgan writing the script and Ron Howard directing, I’ve been introduced to one of the greatest rivalries in racing history. James Hunt and Niki Lauda are two egotistical racing masters who went head to head during the ‘70s. This is their story and it’s a very entertaining one. James Hunt is the playboy party animal and Niki the over-confident loner. No wonder they clashed. Car racing is kind of boring when you think of it, cars just zipping along a course. But with Ron Howard he made every turn as exciting as it is for those behind the wheel. You really feel how intense and crazy this kind of high-end racing is like. I have a new respect for these guys for sure. Sadly this film didn’t do that well which is a shame. I really enjoyed the fun of not knowing who to root for. Grade: A-

Birdman or [The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance] (2014)

This is my favorite film by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, a backstage look into the making of a Broadway play produced, written, directed and starring Hollywood actor-- wanting some respect and to be taken seriously as an artist--Riggan Thomson, played by the amazing Michael Keaton, who gives his best performance in his career, the kind of performance that attracts Oscar buzz (Let’s cross our fingers). And of course Riggan has superpowers, why? Because he’s famous for playing a superhero named, you guessed it, Birdman. (Think Batman but as bird, which is ironic since Keaton played Batman.) Or maybe he’s losing his mind from all the mounting pressures. His actress-girlfriend says she’s pregnant with his child. His teenage daughter, played by the scene-stealing Emma Stone, from a previous marriage is there working as an assistant so he can keep her out of rehab. He has a brilliant actor with intense method techniques, played by super impressive Ed Norton, giving him a hard time. And on top of all of that, the most important theater critic in town hates him. With drums as a sound track,Iñárritu takes us on a manic ride through the mind of a man wanting immortality and the various characters around him trying to just be on Broadway. It’s a comedy, it’s a trippy drama, it’s a character study and it’s impossible to describe in a review so just see it. I think so far it’s the best film I saw this year. I would be shocked if it doesn’t get nominated for best picture. Grade: A

Top Ten Best Kid-Friendly Halloween Films

Now that I’m a father I’ve been thinking of what kind of films I’m going to watch on this spooky holiday that my son is going to be able to watch (when he’s older of course). Here is a list of films but I can assume more will be made by the time my son starts watching.

10. The Witches – Roald Dahl’s book comes to life with Anjelica Huston as an evil witch.

9. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown – It’s a classic. Maybe not a full-length movie but for a kid it’s a must-see

8. Monster Squad – The classic ‘80s adventure film about a group of kids who must save the neighborhood from the original monsters, Dracula, the Mummy, the Wolf man and Frankenstein. Goodness all around.

7. The Corpse Bride – This is a wonderful after-life love story from the mind of Tim Burton.

6. Beetlejuice – It’s just dark enough to be scary but ultimately a hilarious story of a recently deceased couple trying to scare the new owners from their house. Eventually they turn to a crazy ghost to do the job for them. Of course he goes rogue on them. Michael Keaton is awesome.

5. Spirited Away – While one might not think of this Miyazaki marvel as a Halloween story but it’s pretty eerie. I mean at the beginning Chihiro’s parents become pigs. Plus there are some wonderfully strange spirits to inspire any child.

4. Frankenweenie – Wait, Tim Burton again? A boy brings his pet dog back to life. Maybe watch the original ’31 Frankenstein first but do let them see this wonderful twist on the tale.

3. Coraline – A spooky story of a girl who goes to another world to spend time with her other Mother and other Father. Based on Neil Gaiman’s book and made byHenry Selick. When I saw this I knew I was watching an instant classic.

2. The Nightmare Before Christmas – This is the perfect warm up to prepare for the upcoming holidays.

1. Wallace and Gromit and the Curse of the Were-Rabbit – I love this monster-themed comedy and it’s great for kids. Maybe they’ll eat their vegetables instead of their trick or treat candy afterward.

The Taking of Debora Logan (2014)

There’s a moment in this horror film that really got to me. This is a splendid found footage scare fest, where a documentary crew follows a woman who is suffering from Alzheimer's. Or is she? Like an onion, the story continues to expand into one of occults, snakes and kidnapping. Sure sometimes the technique of found footage gets a bit tedious and you can predict the jumps-scares they’re going to force on you, but I loved how this story unfolded even if it was a tad long. A great Halloween night film for sure. Grade: B+

The Walking Dead (Season 4)

After three seasons of this zombie drama, you might expect things to slow down. Not so. The first episode is actually the only weak part with every episode getting better. Some of the episodes of this season are the best of the series so far. As a whole the producers finally upped their game and gave us something more in line with the first season when Frank Darabont ran the show. Andrew Lincoln has never been better. What I liked about his character here was that he seemed to be more focused and less insane- not that he’s emotionally balanced.  All the characters go through a journey of some kind that brings depth to their interactions and explains their actions. The return of the Governor is so rewarding, the entire span of his rise back on top with another group of survivors could make an entire season but it’s actually the jumping off point that sends the characters we love on a lonely and unknown road to a place called Terminus. The best episode of the season is “The Grove”, a painful and horrifically sad episode from Carol’s point of view that will never leave my mind. “Too Far Gone” is the next best one, the point of change that the series needed if it was going to ever get better. Now I can’t wait for the next season to see what’s going to happen, who is going to live and for those who die, how. It’s not a very forgiving show but it certainly is one of the most entertaining right now on TV. Grade: A-

The Stoker (2013)

Park Chan-wook directs his English debut. Mia Wasikowska stars as India, a strange detached teenager whose father died in a car accident, leaving a mentally unbalanced wife, played by Nicole Kidman. At her father’s funeral her Unclie Charlie arrives and this sends her into a maddening journey of sexual awakening and curious destruction. It’s an eerie story with a main character that is so odd that at times I couldn’t figure out what she wanted, which was great. I wouldn’t say this is Chan-wook’s best work and it could have used some more clarity but it’s a decent little film. Mia is wonderful and the best part of the show. She’s proof she’s an up-and-coming talent. Grade: B

Carrie (2014)

This remake of the 1976 Brian Del Palma film is really kind of ho-hum. I’m a big Chloë Grace Moretz fan but she just can’t make this character work for her. I don’t ever believe that she’s as shy and detached from the world as Carrie White is. At times I feel like her performance, especially at the beginning, is forced. Her work opposite Julianne Moore is better and Moore is a terrific choice as the religious obsessed crazy mom but again there’s nothing new about their relationship. Sure they updated the story for our times with social networking and cell phones but it never can rise up to the standard that the first film brought to the table. I wish instead of using Del Palma’s film as their source they would have just adapted the book in a new a refreshing way. While some of the special effects at the end are pretty cool (the car scene) and Portia Doubleday’s over the top performance is screen stealing, this is one even horror fans should skip. Trust me, here’s an example where the remake is so forgettable it’s almost not worth mentioning. Grade: C

A Winter Haunting by Dan Simmons (Novel)

I love Dan Simmons and while I thought this was a good book, it’s not his best. Strange enough it’s a sequel to Summer of Night with the main character Dale Stewart returning to try and write a book about what happened while he was a kid. I’ve read Summer of Night but I didn’t recall any of it. Maybe I would have enjoyed it more if I had but it was some twenty odd years since I read that last book. There is a great feeling of disquiet about the book that is pretty spooky. I also love how damaged he is, he makes for a compelling character. In the end the writing is solid and I liked how the story flows but it didn’t leave me completely satisfied. Grade: B

Resolution (2013)

What starts out as a young man locating his drug addict friend living in an abandon house in the mountains and forcing him to go through withdrawal quickly turns into a mysterious supernatural story of unexplainable tauntings.  It’s a spooky film with many eerie and mind bending twists. The ending is a bit of a letdown but not in a really bad way. I’d say check it out if you want to see a Twin Peaks meets Paranormal Activity. Grade: B

The Strain by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan (Novel)

The vampire as an outbreak story has been done before but not through the mind of Guillermo del Toro.  Dr. Ephraim "Eph" Goodweather, a CDC advisor, inspects an airline jet that arrived at John F. Kennedy International airport with almost everyone dead.  But as he starts to uncover the truth, an old vampire is coming to take New York, it maybe too late. Chuck Hogan co-writes what is really a fun and exciting vampire horror novel. And that’s what I really like about this book: it’s actually kind of intense and scary. It has a tragic feeling about it too, as civilization unknowingly begins its collapse. It’s the first part of a trilogy and I’m looking forward to reading the next book. In the meantime, a television series is airing based on it and you can sense the Toro-inspired creature designs will be gruesome. Grade: B+

Opera (1987)

I like Dario Argento but this is not one of his better films. The story is all over the place.  It centers around a young opera singer named Betty and a psycho who kills all of those around her as they close in on her. It’s not the Phantom of the Opera and I kind of wish he had just followed that story than do this weird out of sync version. There are Argento’s typical camera games and gore but none of it works.  Disappointing, I'm almost done watching all of his work and I had high hopes this would be a good one. Grade: C

Kiss of the Damned (2013)

Xan Cassavetes makes a vampire love story that is actually sexy. Move over Twilight, this is how you do it. It’s haunting and beautiful and when Djuna’s sister Mimi shows up it gets a little scary. The plot is thin for sure but the story unfolds with a moody atmospheric energy that pulls you in and doesn’t let go. Milo Ventimiglia gives his best performance to date as the writer who falls in love with Djuna a vampiress and becomes a vampire in the process. When the film ends I was very satisfied. This is the kind of unpredictable vampire story I like and recommend it for those interested in these kinds of out-of-the-box kind of fables. Grade: B+

Doctor Sleep by Stephen King (Novel)

What I love about this book is that it’s very different than its predecessor; if you’re going to continue on a story here’s how to do it without repeating yourself while at the same time following similar themes and crafting something new and deserving of existence. What I didn’t love about it was how at the end it loses any real sense of danger for the main characters. Unlike the Shinning, it becomes clear it’s all going to work out although there are many chapters left to read. Still I have to give King a big thumbs-up here: taking one of his classics and making a sequel that is this fun to read as well as a nice ending for the character of Danny Torrance. It also feels like a genuine peek into the mind of a recovering alcoholic. King knows what it’s like to go to AA meetings and the demons of alcohol. It’s the core reason why Jack Torrance snaps in the Shining and here it’s the very thing that pushes Danny to find himself and ultimately save his family.

Spoilers: The villains in this story are really great. The True Knot and Rose the Hat are dangerous and evil and yet they are family and you can almost sympathize with their wish to live forever. That said, for how formidable they were at the beginning, they bumble about and never seem like they’re going to be a match to Abra Stone. After the True knot fails to kidnap Abra all suspense melts away and you’re left reading because you want to see if there are any surprises, and there really aren’t any. Still it’s a good book.

Gone Girl (2014)

David Fincher picks great books to adapt that’s for sure. Unlike The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, I didn’t read the book by Gillian Flynn and with her writing the screenplay I have a feeling it’s a solid adaptation (which I can’t say about TGWDT). What a fantastic film. Ben Affleck stars as the husband of a woman gone missing and soon becomes the primary suspect. Rosamund Pike plays his wife who maybe not be as perfect as we’re first led to believe. It’s a mystery, it’s a love story, and more importantly it’s a film about sensationalism in the media and how the public eating it all up is just as obsessive as the villain in this demented tale. I heard someone comment after watching this film that it doesn’t really make you want to get married (which is a bit dumb thing to say) but I get the point. Be careful who you fall in love with and make sure you know who you are just as well as them. Grade: A

Spoilers: What a performance from Rosamund Pike, she is a sensation! It’s a testament to her talents that at the end of this film I loved her and at the same time was terrified by her. I mean, sure it’s morbid that she says she loves Ben after all that she did, but in some ways she does. Ben can know that she fell in love with him and while he might not feel the same, something tells me he’s not just staying around because of the kid. I don’t care what anyone says, there’s a part of him that wants her just as always. He was a con artist when they met and now he’s going to continue to be con artist to keep her sane. Is it a depressing ending or a happy one? You be the judge but I had a devil’s smile plastered on my face.

Oculus (2014)

Mirrors are perfect objects to set up a horror film and here Mike Flanagan succeeds at using one to make a horror film that is remarkably clever in its execution and in its creepiness. The story flips back and forth from the present to the past and it’s an enjoyable gimmick that works for so many reasons. Add on top of that the wonderful performances fromKaren Gillan as the sister trying to destroy a mirror for destroying her family and Brenton Thwaites as the brother trying to figure out if what happened when he was a kid was real or a delusion, this is a must see for lovers of the modern horror film. It’s not perfect; Rory Cochrane who plays the father is totally miscast and his channeling of Jack Nicholson from The Shinning almost spoils the film. He’s a good actor but the film makers should have cast someone else. His acting also seems to hold back Katee Sackhoff (who I love) from doing anything memorable here. Certainly some better character development for some of the lesser characters could have helped as well. Still this is a good one, a dreadful tale of a mirror that eats souls and never lets up. Grade: B+

Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991)

This was Krueger’s last stand and the end to the Nightmare on Elm Street franchise. Sure, Wes Craven’s New Nightmare came out later but that one’s more of a meta-trip than a real continuation. Here Krueger has succeeded in killing every child in Springwood except one. How’s that for depressing? The one survivor is allowed to escape in order to bring someone back from Krueger’s past. I’ll avoid the spoiler though it’s kind of obvious. The first half of this film is pretty bad. It’s a typical ‘80s horror trash, cash grab (yes, I know it was made in the '90s but it's still stuck in the last decade). Find a bunch of young bad actors that you don’t have to pay a lot. Use a lot of visual effects as your centerpiece and let your star (Robert Englund) ham it up. Yet something weird happens halfway through, it starts to get good. I can’t explain it but once you know the back story and they set up the confrontation between Freddy and the counselor, Maggie Burroughs, I was interested again. Our heroes rise to put an end to Krueger’s terror saves this film from being a complete dud. It’s interesting to note (at least for me) that this was Rachel Talalay’s directorial debut. She came up with the story as well. I have to say I actually think she did a good job considering what she had to work with. I wonder why New Line decided to kill one of their more lucrative characters. I can only assume Englund wanted out so he could do other things. After completing this sixth film I can say as a whole this franchise is pretty weak. It’s mostly a nostalgia flashback. It’s worth celebrating if you like cheesy, tongue-in-cheek horror films but if you wish to avoid that kind of style just stick with the first three. Grade: B-

You’re Next (2011)

I can’t quite explain why I liked this home invasion horror flick. Maybe it’s because the hero is a woman, the one smart enough and strong enough to stay alive. Maybe it’s because of the twist, that I saw coming but still felt was satisfying in its storytelling. Maybe it’s fun to watch a bunch of rich people make mistakes that cost their lives. I’m just not sure; I just liked this thrilling tale of men in wolf masks, for apparently no reason, assaulting a wealthy family arrived to their vacation mansion for a get together. Sharni Vinson does a fine job as the anchor, the hero with the survivor skills to make the hunters the hunted. She’s basically the John McClane of the story. Director Adam Wingard has created something worth checking out and I’ll certainly keep on the lookout for future projects he’s involved with. Grade: B+

We Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson (Novel)

This is a true classic, a psychological horror novel that gets into the mind of a demented teenager and the cruel town she lives in. It’s the story of sisters, Katherine andConstance, and how their dependent relationship evolves into one of isolation. It’s the story of the infamous Blackwoods, poisoned by their own children, and how because of their wealth and villainy become pariahs in their community. It’s Jackson at the heights of her powers crafting a memorable and complex character study that delves into jealousy both from a teenage girl wanting to protect her sister and a town from wanting to punish those they deem deserving of torment. There’s a lot to love about this book and while it’s not scary it’s dark and nasty in its psychological workings. When I finished the book I kept thinking of the documentary Grey Gardens. Except here there’s a darkness that’s truly tragic and beautiful and twisted. Grade: A

The Returned (2013)

A wonderful twist on the zombie story, here a cure has been found and those who are infected can live a normal life as long as they keep taking their medication, a drug that is becoming difficult to make because it’s made using infected blood. Emily Hampshire plays the doctor involved with caring for patients and making a synthetic version of the drug. Her husband played by Kris Holden-Ried is one of the infected. To save him they decide to go on the run, taking a stash of the drug that should last them for a good while. This is more of a thriller than horror film but it’s a good one, even if made by a small budget. Just when you thought everything could be conceived in the zombie genre this Canadian production directed by Manuel Carballo gives us a fresh spin. If you like zombie films certainly check this one out. Grade: B+

The Shinning by Stephen King [Revisited]

Before reading the sequel to this beloved classic from Mr. King, I decided to revisit the original with a re-read. I mean it’s been twenty-five years since I last read the book. I remembered a lot but there were some details I had forgotten as expected. All I know is having experienced the story again I can say it’s easily one of the greatest horror novels ever written. It’s easily one of King’s top five best. An evil hotel coercing an alcoholic to sacrifice his “gifted” son could be kind of cheesy, but here the tale is told by a master of the genre who knows how to develop characters to embrace and care about. Why is this story so frightening? For one the struggle to be a good father while at the same time fighting ones’ own demons of inadequacy is so relatable. Then there’s the mysterious and spooky gift (or curse) Danny has that gives me goose bumps even now. Add the seductive power of the hotel (like the drink Jack thinks he can avoid) and you have the makings of an emotional supernatural tragedy. Why is reading the destruction of a family so rewarding? I don’t’ know, maybe because in the end while evil wins from time to time, the power of love and hope beats it back again. If you haven’t read this book and only know the story from the watered down version from Kubrick then do yourself a favor and read this book. Grade: A

And with this blog entry begins my annal Month of Horror.  Let the celebration of the macabre continue . . . 

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)

Ben Stiller directs an updated adaptation of James Thurber’s short story which had been adapted before in Norman Z. Mcleod’s 1947 version starring Danny Kaye. The result is beautiful to look at, certainly. You can see the money that was spent on every frame. The big issue for me is the message is so obvious that the journey Mitty takes seems unnecessary. The twist at the end isn’t really that surprising either. There are some very funny moments scattered about the film and a skateboarding sequence that is just too cool not to jump up and take notice. But I just feel that a film that looks this good should have more depth. None of the characters feel developed past being a side joke. Mr. Stiller is a very talented director but in this case I felt he was so involved with making the film look awesome that he let slide the complexity of his character. Still I do recommend it as a fun film, especially for anyone stuck in the rut. It just feels like it could have been so much better. Grade: B

Orange is the New Black (Season 1)

Women in Prison the TV show. Based (loosely I’m assuming) on the memoir by Piper Kerman. From Jenji Kohan the creator of Weeds. Netflix soars with this one. It’s the kind of dramedy that makes you laugh and catch your breath with emotional tension. While packed with a wonderful cast of character actors to play the eccentric mix of prisoners and prison staff, it’s the lead played by Taylor Schilling that shines. Taylor is so likeable that you feel like you’re walking into prison with her. You feel her pain and humiliation and her triumph as she finds her way into this new situation. There are many standout performers from Uzo Aduba who plays Crazy Eyes, Taryn Manning as Pennsatucky, Laura Prepon as Alex (Piper’s ex-leisban lover), Jason Biggs as the understanding fiancée, Pablo Schreiber as Pornstache, and Laverne Cox as the transsexual Sophie. Every episode is well-crafted and delivers. If I had to be super picky I’d suggest that there are gaps in acting quality but that’s expected with a show with so many characters. Prison is not a happy place, not matter the gender. Yet it does make for the perfect setting for drama and humor. Grade: A-

Unbelievers (2014)

When I read there would be a documentary about great thinkers and atheists Lawrence Krauss and Richard Dawkins I became really excited.  For one I’m basically an atheist myself (yet I really really want to be wrong) and I was looking forward to an intellectual dialogue from these two celebrated gentleman.  In the end this is just a clip show of their travels without much context.  There are way too many moments were these guys are being filmed walking through airports than actually talking about their ideas for my taste.   I guess I should be inspired by this celebration of science and reason, and I was to some degree, but this film never gets past being a commercial.  I was so disappointed by this film I don’t even want to recommend it.  Yet the ideas behind the film I really want people to experience.  So I suggest instead finding these two guys books and reading them.  Wait for a real documentary to come along that does what I wish this film had done.  Grade: C+

The Fires of Heaven by Robert Jordan (Novel) [Revisited]

The interesting thing about this fifth book in the Wheel of Time is that while a lot happens, it doesn’t feel as dense or as accomplished as the last book.  Perhaps this is because Perrin’s view point is missing.  Not that we need him, the guy deserves a break after what he does in the last book.   There are some great sections though as Rand, Mat, Moiraine and Egwene chase after the Shaido and head toward Cairhien.  Mat turns out to be a knowledgeable battle master (based on past memories he has stuck in his head) and Moiraine becomes a trustworthy advisor to Rand.  Meanwhile Nynaeve, Elayne, Thom and Juilian join a traveling circus upon escaping Tanchico as they search out the Aes Sedi rebels, where Nim and Siuan find refuge.  There are some exciting confrontations in Tel’aran’rhiod, the dreaming world and a shocking end for two supporting characters.  Again a very entertain book but this is the first book in the series where I felt it was a bit long.  Still as long-form epic fantasy story building goes, it’s an accomplishment.  Usually by the fifth book in a story like this the events starts to feel forced.  That’s not the case here as the momentum to tell this story keeps pushing forward.   I love seeing characters like Siuan evolve and set up some really great possible story threads for the future.  If I had to find something about this book to complain about is that Rand is starting to come across as unbeatable.  He needs to fail at some point or it will feel fake.  If memory severs that’s about to happen in the sixth book.  Grade: A-

Spoilers:  I already greatly miss Moiraine.  It felt as if her story had come to its conclusion so it makes sense but her presence in this story so far has been so vital it will be interesting to see what happens without her in Rand’s circle.  Plus she was just a great wizard-type that these kinds of stories require.  What I also love is having the White Tower divided and yet not everyone is privy to this knowledge.  This is a technique Mr. Jordan uses a lot and it makes for great drama.

The Shadow Rising by Robert Jordan (Novel) [Revisited]

Rand, Mat and Nynaeve journey from Tear to the Aiel Waste to fulfill the part of the prophecies that say the Dragon Reborn is also the Aiel’s Car’a’carn.  To prove their worth Rand and Mat must enter the ancient and sacred city of Rhuidean and be tested. Nynaeye will train with the Wise Ones (the Aiel version of the Aes Sedi) about Dreaming.  Meanwhile Nynaeve and Elayne head to Tanchico to hunt down the Black Ajah taking Thom Merrilin and the thief catcher Juliin Sandar with them.   Yet the two story lines that most entertained me in this volume were those with Perrin and Min.  Min arrives at the White Tower to inform the Amyrlin Siuan Sanche of Moiraine’s progress advising Rand and upon her arrival sees a vision that something very bad is about to happen at the White Tower.  The best part of this terrifically dense book is Perrin’s journey to his home town of Two Rivers where he becomes the leader he was born to be and unites his people to battle a siege of Trollocs.  To assist him for the task is Loial and Faile Bashere.  It’s Perrin and Faile’s love story that gives book its emotional punch.  Considering all the story threads Mr. Jordan is weaving here it’s an impressive achievement.  Under a less skilled storyteller this chunk of epic writing could have been a logistic nightmare of unfocused subplots and underdeveloped climaxes.  The development of the Aiel culture and their tribal customs alone is enough to upstage the most accomplished writers out there.   Just when I was thinking the last book was the best one, this one reigns supreme.  There’s just so many memorable moments.  As anyone knowledgeable with The Wheel of Time knows, it is a bit long winded but in this case there really isn’t a section you can remove.  It’s a fantastic book.  Grade: A

Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

First off, any film where you have a talking Raccoon flying a space ship and blasting people away with a big gun is a must-see for me. Top that with a space opera setting that’s tied into the Marvel Universe and it’s shocking that people thought this was a “gamble”. I knew this film was going to be fantastic and I didn’t need psychic powers to know it. Chris Pratt plays Starlord, Zoe Saldana plays the sexy green bounty hunter Gamora, David Bautista is the muscle Drax and Bradley Cooper voices Rocket the talking raccoon and Vin Diesel voices the walking tree Groot. Together they’re criminals (a team of Han Solos) who must save the Universe from a tyrant named Ronan the Accuser played by Lee Pace, a vengeful villain set on wiping out an entire planet. Add in a great ‘60s/’70s soundtrack to the mix and this is an extremely entertain film. The only issue I had with it in general was that the villain, Ronan, is menacing enough, sure, but he’s pretty one-dimensional. I’m not saying every villain needs to be multi-layered but they should stand out somewhat. While Mr. Pace does what he can, and he looks great, I felt he was a pretty forgettable character. In many ways it doesn’t matter because it’s the team-up aspect of the plot that drives the story. I just hope for the next film, and let’s green-light the sequel now folks, Marvel gives us a much more interesting bad guy. The villainous character that steals the show in this one is Yondu played by Michael Rooker. I doubt he could ever be the main villain but he’s the kind of bad guy they need in the second one. The villain needs to be a real threat while at the same time engaging. Ronan was a stiff God-like character with no personality. Ultimately I want to applaud director and writer James Gunn. He did a wonderful job bring this comic to life. This is a terrific example of how to make a fun Summer movie that doesn’t feel stupid. Every film maker of these kind of films should be taking notes. Grade: A

The Family (2013)

You look at a film like this and you shake your head and wonder what the heck happened. Great cast: Robert De NIro, Michelle Pfeiffer, Tommy Lee Jones, Dianna Agron and more. You have a decent director in Luc Besson. The premise isn’t that bad either; American Mobster in hiding is transplanted into a small French town by the FBI. It even starts off well, showing this tough, uncompromising family deal with bullies and rudeness like a group of bad-asses. It’s actually kind of funny. Then everything unravels before your eyes and what is left is an inconsistent film. For example, Dianna Agron starts off as a unflinching American teenager but at some point she becomes some weak timid girl. Everyone in it does a good job, the acting isn’t the problem, it’s the writing. Based on a French novel (so I’ve learned) I can’t help but wonder how close of an adaptation it is. Regardless it’s one of those below average movies you might watch late at night and enjoy it somewhat but won’t be able to remember it the next day. I’d suggest just skipping it. Grade: C

Snowpiercer (2014)

Korean director Bong Joon-ho directs an English language science fiction film based on the French graphic novelLe Transperceneige. And the result is a brilliant, dark, a sardonic film for an international market. I loved this film. It takes place in the future after a new ice age pretty much wipes out the planet. The only survivors that we know of live on a super train that speeds around the globe nonstop at high speeds. Our hero, played by Chris Evans, lives with the poor in horrid conditions and must band together to fight their way up the train in a revolt against Wilford, the mysterious Engineer of the train. Tilda Swinton hams up the screen as the second in command, a tyrannical dictator who keeps the poor in check. I don’t want to ruin any surprises so all I will say is just watch it. It’s a cinematic gem with fantastic themes about those who have none and those who have a lot. It’s funny, it’s exciting, it’s visually poetic and it’s morbidly satisfying. Grade: A-

The Dragon Reborn by Robert Jordan (Novel) [Revisited]

Ironically Rand, who is the Dragon Reborn, isn’t a primary character in this book. Sure he’s very much a centerpiece of the story with Perrin and Moiranie chasing after him toward the Stone of Tear and Eqwana, Nynaeve and Elayne trying to protect him from the Black Ajah. But I found this book to be where Mat becomes his own hero. Mat is taken to the White Tower for healing and finds himself gifted with luck and on a quest to deliver a letter from Elayne to her mother Queen Morgase in Camlyn. It’s also fun to see Aes Sedi in training with Eqwana, Nynaeve and Elayne becoming friends before getting assigned a secret and dangerous mission from the Amyrlin Seat herself. This is such a satisfying book. Mr. Jordan really keeps upping the ante that you’d think he’d at some point fail to improve upon what he’s doing so well here, and that’s create a memorable and rewarding epic. This one also has the start of the book’s best love story with the introduction of Zarine Bashere (Faile). Another wonderful achievement in long form storytelling that just makes you want to keep on reading, no matter the size of the next book. Grade: A

The Americans (Season 1)

The premise of the show alone entertains. Two Russian spies live as an American couple during the ‘80s Cold War. Not even their kids know their true vocation. This might be the most complex love story on TV for even though they’re married they consider themselves coworkers more than lovers. Yet the sexual tension is very much present and as the FBI tries to find them, they do what spies do and that’s deceive, collect information and kill. Something tells me this show is only going to get better. Is this the show that’s going to take over for Breaking Bad? Only time will tell. Grade: A-

No Hellboy 3

I read some sad news today. Guillermo del Toro stated that he doesn’t believe a third Hellboy film will happen. I still hold out some hope, because anything is possible, but if true this would be one of the most disappointing things I’ve heard in movie land. I love the Hellboy films and with the way the second one ended it felt like a great epic ending was foretold. Now we’ll just have to use our imaginations. It irritates me to no end that del Toro doesn’t have the creative freedom to make the kind of films he wants to. I know making films is a business and his "works of art" aren’t bringing in lots of money but for me he should be allowed to finish this Hellboy trilogy. He should be allowed to make At the Mountain of Madness. I won’t state he’s a genius (for that term is overused a lot) I do consider him one of the most creative forces in the industry. And we need people like him to give our cinematic landscape bursts of inspiration. While it’s unlikely a conclusion to the Hellboy cinematic world will be delivered to us, I know Ron Pearlman wants to do it. Maybe, maybe if del Toro had a big hit (Pacific Rim 2?) the Hollywood moneymen will change their minds. Maybe. I will be crossing my fingers, always.

Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

Based on the book All You Need Is Kill by Yoshitoshi Abe (which is a much better title by the way Warner Bros.) this might go down as the best film of the summer. Tom Cruise plays a major in the military charged with public relations during an alien invasion. Proving to be a coward unwilling to follow his orders and cover the front lines, he is shoved into an infantry squad about to storm a beach D-day style to assault the alien monsters. Without any training this is pretty much a suicide mission. Yet in the attack and ensuing death he discovers he’s stuck in a time loop repeating the same day very much like living a video game returning to the same moment when killed. [Funny how any story that has a time loop is now referred to as being like the great Bill Murray comedy Groundhog Day even though it wasn’t the only story to use the technique.] Now with the help of Sergeant Rita, a woman who knows what he’s going through, he must find a way to defeat the aliens even if it means being killed over and over again. What one might not realize from this film’s misguided ad campaign is how funny it is. It’s not some dark action movie but an entertaining alien busting romp with a solid love story entwined. Emily Blunt who plays Rita is the highlight of the film (not that Tom Cruise is bad he’s great actually). Her character is tough and complex and delivered with an intense vulnerability. It pains me that no one is seeing this film and that it might go down as being a box office bomb. It’s an excellent film deserving a bigger audience. I predict that years from now this will be considered a classic of science fiction action. Grade: A

Michael Bay (Commentary)

Who is the worst film director in Hollywood? For me it’s this guy. The reason he’s the worst for me is because he should be one of the elite directors in Hollywood, he has the talent to be making Oscar nominated films. His gifts for visual action and composition are beautiful, most of the time. Yet all of that talent is wasted on rushed, badly written scripts meant to generate big bucks by attracting 14 year olds to the theater. He’s certainly successful at what he does. There’s no debate there. But none of what he makes will stand the test of time. No one will be watching his films fifty years from now, unless it’s to laugh at what audiences found entertaining back in the 2000s. For me this is sad. For a guy with that much clout, he could hire the best of the best in screenwriting and be making classics. Yet I don’t think he’s interested in that. He just wants to blow things up, degrade women, celebrate offensive and unwitty buffoonery and make as much money as possible. I guess he’ll go to his grave with a big smile and a pocket full of coin but how does that benefit society? What is he going to leave for future generations? Maybe he’ll grow up someday. Maybe he’ll want to prove all this critics wrong and make a great film someday (I’m hoping he does, I really do). But until then he’s the worse director out there. Now for all his fans out there, it’s time to clobber me. I’ll admit that the last film of his I saw was Transformers. I tried to watch the second one but gave up after ten minutes. I haven’t seen Transformers 3 or Pain & Gain and I will not be seeing the next Transformers mess (the trailer of which inspired me to write this blog). How is it I can measure a man without seeing all of his work? I answer that by looking at the reviews he receives which are mostly bad to awful. I also have seen many of his previous other films (though I wish I hadn’t). Bad Boys was mildly entertaining but I saw it when I was a teenager so of course I was going to enjoy it somewhat, I was his target audience. The Rock is his best film. I’ll give him that as a success. Armageddon starts off well but ends into a dreadful melodramatic disaster, The Island starts off pretty good but quickly turns into a mediocre offering. Pearl Harbor was offensively bad and for an historical event that deserved so much more. I haven’t seen Bad Boys II (because I didn’t want to see a sequel to an average action film). Then there are the trailers for his films. Transformers 4: Age of Extinction for example looks like a face plant into visual effect manure. Why are these robots defending us still? If I’m in the mood for a headache I’ll go see it. Ultimately I am begging Mr. Bay to make a movie for everyone. Make a film that empowers teenage girls instead of making them feel they have to be second fiddle to the opposite gender. Make a movie that inspires humanity and stands the test of time. It’ll make you feel pretty good, Mr. Bay. And guess what; you’ll actually make even more money.

Happy Accidents (1999)

Vincent D’Onofrio and Marisa Tomei fall in love and you’d think everything is perfect except he’s convinced he’s from the future. She obviously doesn’t believe him and hopes she can cure him of his delusion. Then a mystery unravels when she discovers the name Chrystie Delancey written in one of his books. As quirky independent films go, this one is a big winner for me. I enjoyed this film’s twist and turns and found the ending very rewarding. If you’re looking for a fun love story with a very naturalistic feel this is the film for you.  Brad Anderson directs and does a splendid job.  Grade: A-

World War Z (2013)

While I haven’t read the book from Max Brooks, it’s my understanding that this film adapts very little from Brooks' story. Brooks wrote the book to feel like non-fiction but instead of making a documentary film Brad Pitt and Marc Forster make up their own Zombie tale, packaging it under Brooks’ wonderful title. The result is a CGI heavy spectacle with some fine visuals and strong performances. Brad Pitt is a former United Nations investigator (is there such a thing) who circles the globe trying to find the cure to a spreading and horrible zombie plague. My big issue with the film is the CGI of the mass zombies; the tidal wave of bodies looks a little fake and that threw me some. But it’s a good story if somewhat typical. It’s worth checking out. I only wish it had a slightly different ending but what I envision would have been much more devastating. Grade: B+

Game of Thrones (Season 1)

After reading the first book of The Song of Fire and Ice I rented the first season of the HBO television series. Now I see why everyone is talking about this show. It’s a really great production with a perfect cast and solid writing. The production design is beautiful and completely realized. Some portions of the story look just as I saw it in my head when reading the book. Sean Bean, Peter Dinklage and Mark Addy are excellent choices as Ned, Tyrion and King Robert. Then there is the introduction of such fine actors as Michelle Fairley, Lena Headey, Sophie Turner, Maisie Williams, Kit Harington and Emilia Clarke. Will the producers of this show be able to continue to develop this at such a high level of quality and what happens when they adapated all the books published so far? George R.R. Marin is still writing his story. Are they going to wait? All I know is I have to ask myself is it worth reading the books first, and risk someone spoiling the story. I might have to start Season 2 now. Grade: A

Star Wars Spin-offs (Commentary)

In Disney’s quest to dominate the (film) world, they plan to produce a Star Wars movie a year. Overkill? Maybe. Only time will decide if this will create Star Wars fatigue. Regardless those films that come out between Episodes 7 through 30 (don’t be shocked if Disney makes that many) will be spin-offs and the first two will be directed by Gareth Edwards (Godzilla/Monsters) and Josh Trank (Chronicle/ Fantastic Four). There’s a lot of speculation what these spin-off films will be. Nothing is official.  It’s exciting that Lucasfilm has reached out to two talented and refreshing voices. It’s not a guarantee, what is, but they’re inspiring choices.

5 Stories I’d like to See:

Obi Wan Kenobi Stand-Alone staring Ewan McGregor

Why? Because he was the best part of the prequels and I can’t believe Old Ben stayed on Tatooine for 18 years roaming the desert as a hermit. He had to leave for an adventure at least once.

Bounty Hunter Film featuring Boba Fett

This to me sounds like a really fun idea. Boba Fett deserves more screen time and I always loved the Bounty Hunters and imagined my own cool stories with their action figures as a kid.

Old Republic Pre-prequel

It’d be cool to see how the Jedi came about and the formation of the Jedi Council. Yoda could be really young in it, maybe an apprentice. This would be completely different than anything done before and a potential set up for another trilogy.

Young Han Solo Adventures

This is a no-brainer. Show how he met Chewie and Lando. Where did he find or win the Millennium Falcon? Just make sure the story is something new and not just a rehash of how he pissed off the Hutt.

The Old Skywalker

This idea would only depend on how they write the character in Episode 7 but I’d love to see a kind of prequel to Episode 7 where Luke takes on an apprentice and finds himself in an adventure all his own.

3 Horrible Ideas:

Yoda Stand Alone

I love Yoda but an entire movie with a character speaking in broken English would become annoying after a while. Plus I don’t think he could bolster an entire film on his own as the main character.

Ewoks

I love the Ewoks but we had a couple made-for-tv movies in the eighties about them and they were not that good. Basically the time for Ewoks is over.

Darth Vader Stand Alone

We don’t need any more Darth Vader. Sure he could make a cameo at some point but I’m done with him driving the narrative of the story. I’d rather we introduce new villains than rely on the center piece of the original trilogy.

The Great Hunt by Robert Jordan (Novel)

The second book of the Wheel of Time is a great example of how to improve upon the first novel and further develop the characters in a rewarding and expanding way. Rand al’Thor, Mat Cauthon and Perrin Aybara pursue the Darkfriend Padan Fain to take back the Horn of Valere and more importantly the Dagger of Shadar Logoth so to save Mat from its evil taint. Meanwhile Nynaeve and Egwene arrive in Tar Valon to learn to become Aes Sedai in the White Tower. There they befriend Elayne Trakand and Min Farshaw (introduced in book one in encounters with Rand). Rand is still trying to accept his destiny as the Dragon Reborn and it’s great to see his struggle and reluctant acceptance. What’s exceptional about this book is how it builds to the climax in the sea town of Tanchico and the introduction of the mysterious Seanchan. The Seanchan might be one of the more original creations I know of in fantasy fiction. If you read this much of the story and aren’t convinced this is a new classic of the genre than you might as well stop reading. I personally consider this a near perfect novel of the serial form. Grade: A

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins (Novel)

The conclusion to the Hunger Games trilogy is a bit of a mixed-bag. Thankfully the weaker parts of the book are at the beginning and not the end. The end of the book is riveting and unpredictable. It left me greatly satisfied because Collins proves to be more interested in making a statement on war and its lack of glory than a celebration of violence and victory. The weakness of the beginning part of the book has more to do with the writing tempo than what is actually happening in the narrative. It seems rushed as if Collins is just trying to get to the good part, telling more than showing at times. What I love though thematically is Katniss’ drive toward vengeance. It helps develop the character into areas that one would not expect a hero to go. The love triangle becomes less important but the game, the true-game of politics and image, continues to push Katniss to a great and sad realization. I do wish Collins would have developed the book a bit more, but maybe it would have doubled the book’s length and that wasn’t something she wanted to do. Regardless it’s a fine ending to one of the more successful young adult post-apocalyptic stories out there, if it’s even fair or accurate to call such a dark and thrilling tale a young adult story at all. Grade: B+

The Unnamed by Joshua Harris (Novel)

This beautifully written love story is a tragic obstacle course meant to take our leads and test them to the brink.  Tim Farnsworth is a man with a problem.  He walks, without warning or cause.  He suddenly must walk, walking for miles out of his way until he final collapses.  His wife, Jane, must deal with this unexplained phenomenon by driving around looking for him.  This puts a strain on their marriage, especially when it affects his ability to work as a lawyer and be a father to their daughter Becka.  The book follows them through the years as they deal with this mysterious, off-and-on again issue.  I love odd stories like this and especially when they're this well-done.  It'll break your heart while also making you think about what love is and how you should live the life you have.  Grade: A

X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)

In the film world, the X-Men Franchise is one of the more inconsistent works of comic book film making out there (okay, maybe that’s not the case anymore with The Amazing Spider-Man 2).  The first two films, X-Men and X-Men United, are brilliant examples of multiple superhero storytelling.  Director Bryan Singer pretty much defined how to do it.  Then Singer left to make his awful Superman film at Warner Bros. to let Brett Ratner come along and lay an egg.  X-Men: The Last Stand pretty much “almost” killed the franchise.  X-Men Origins: Wolverine didn’t help matters either.  Thankfully Matthew Vaughn (and Singer as Producer) rebooted the series with X-Men: First Class.  In fact I liked the prequel more than the first X-Men film.  Now Singer is back to start where he left off and do something that has never been done.  Combine the casts of both series with a time travel story line that accomplishes a celebratory result; nullify the events of The Last Stand.  For this reason alone I love this film.  Seeing Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen on screen again as Professor X and Magneto is enough to make me do back flips (hyperbole enough for you?).  Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine must go back to the ‘70s to prevent the destruction of humanity.  To do this he’ll need the young Professor X and Magneto to find the ever-rogue beauty Mystique and keep her from committing a crime that causes a chain reaction leading to the creation of the Sentinels (massive death robots that hunt down and kill mutants).  The cast of this film is superb.  It’s a joy to see actors like James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender and Jennifer Lawrence return improving upon their characterizations while at the same time watching our favorites from the first X-Men films give one last bow.  Of course being that this comes from a damaged and flawed franchise there are some mysterious omissions and inconsistencies but I can forgive these because of the highly entertaining outcome.  Examples?  Professor X was killed in The Last Stand.  How did he come back?  Do the events of X-Men: Origins ever happen?  (To read more see spoilers).  In the end I’m happy that this franchise is back on its feet again but still wish it had never faltered to begin with.  Even if re-casting the mutants such as Cyclops, Jane Grey, Nightcrawler and Kitty Pride in future installments, I wonder if we’ll ever get to experience The Dark Phoenix story and if the time line will ever catch up to the present (and so contradicting the first films stories).  Is paradox forever doomed to curse this super group?  All I know is I had a great time in the theater and can smile with hope that another great X-Men film will come out soon to expand on this wonderful, messy story.  Grade: A-

Spoilers:  Other questions:  if Mystique was killed in 1970 how is it that she’s in the original X-men.  Why are Wolverine’s claws metal in the future after they were cut off in the last Wolverine film?  (And how is it he can even grow bone claws?  That’s not really his power, is it?)  Will Wolverine still get the carbonadium in his body?  Why did they need Magneto’s help?  It seems he only ended up agitating the situation.  I better stop or I’ll question my rating.   

42 (2013)

Jackie Robinson was an American legend.  He wasn’t just the first African-American baseball player to play for the Majors; he was one of the greatest sportsmen ever regardless of his skin color.  Such a fine human being deserves a fantastic bio-pic.  Brian Helgeland does a few things right in his production.  One he casts a talented actor in Chadwick Boseman to play Jackie.  He helps Harrison Ford turn in a fine performance as Branch Rickey.  He highlights many of Robinson’s famous moments.  That said it feels at times pretty generic.  It’s not to say I would suggest you avoid this film, because it’s good enough to watch and appreciate but it left me wanting more.  If not for Boseman and Ford’s on-screen chemistry this would be a big below average film.  I’m kind of hoping in ten years someone tackles this story again, and is able to craft a film that feels less like a made-for-TV movie and more like a true cinematic event.  Grade: B

Godzilla (2014)

Finally an American film with the greatest giant monster of them all that’s actually good.  Of course the bar had been dropped pretty low after the last version from Roland Emmerich, an embarrassing film with a giant alligator roaming New York instead of the great lord of lizards.  Director Gareth Edwards was the perfect guy to assign this franchise starter of course if you’re aware of his masterful independent film Monsters.  Here he crossed the globe with a fine cast of characters, Bryan Cranston being the standout.  I did have some issues with some of the characters but the overall the story arcs work, coming together for a monster battle at the end that is eye-popping.  Sure Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s performance is pretty average and Elizabeth Olsen is completely under used, but there’s enough human interaction to entertain us as we wait to see more of the monsters.  Could they have shown us more Godzilla?  Maybe, but for me there seemed to be a nice balance.  But for the sequel I expect a lot more, so bring it on, Legendary Pictures, the big green guy deserves an epic continuation.  Grade: B+

Pitch Perfect (2013)

As a fan of Glee, I was excited to see this A cappella competition musical comedy starring Anna Kendrick and Rebel Wilson.  Yet I was surprised at how much I really loved this film.  It’s very funny and one of those kinds of films that’s timed so well it makes for enjoyable re-watching.  The music is catchy and fun.  The characters are spunky with a bunch of girls you’d like to hang out with and sing with (if I could sing).  Sure the plot is a bit predictable but the comedy is not; it’s laugh out loud refreshing.  Even if you dislike Glee, give this one a chance, it’s a blast.  Grade: A-

Batman Vs. Superman - Official Title (Commentary)

Warner Bros unveiled the official title for the next Superman film . . . I mean, the next Batman film . . . wait, it’s actually a Justice League prologue setting up the next big team superhero franchise. Batman Vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice. Unfortunately it’s a very indecisive title which spells doom for the film. I hope I’m wrong but it’s like they can’t decide what film they’re making, who is the main character, and as seen in the past (The Amazing Spider-Man 2, I’m referring to you) you can’t throw everything at us and expect us to be happy. We need a completely realized film with a central hero to carry the narrative and a clear plot that won’t have us scratching our heads (Transformers, I’m thinking of you this time). I hold out hope because I want to see Zack Synder grand slam this bad boy because we, the film fans of the world, deserve a great Batman vs. Superman film. Please Warner Bros. don’t mess this up and try to mash-up everything into one film. You have time. You can make many more JLA movies.  The great myth is that DC and Marvel are sworn enemies, but this isn't true.  Each can only bolster the other.  Superhero comic book fans who see Marvel films will see DC films too, especially if they're good.  Don't adopt the do or die approach.  The competition is healthy and friendly.  Who cares if Marvel makes 2 billion dollars is you make 1.9 billion?

Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin (Novel)

I’ve been meaning to read this fantasy book for some time. Then HBO decided to make it into a series and I’ve been killing myself to read it so I can watch the show. I wanted to read the book first because I‘ve heard it’s well-written and a classic of the genre. It is. It’s the kind of book that sticks to your brain. The characters are fully realized in a world begging to explore. Told from different points of views, it’s the story about the Starks who live in the north in Winterfell and the beginnings of a great feud between their rivals the Lannisters. Ned Stark is ordered by the King to become his Second in command, known as the King’s Hand. Yet something is not right with the King’s wife, the Queen who is sleeping with her brother a Lannister. Then there’s Ned’s bastard who leaves for the Wall to become a Black Brother, a protector who guards the kingdom from the wilds of the north. Meanwhile the children of the last King, the Targaryens (disposed of many years ago) are traveling in a faraway land, planning their return and revenge by creating an alliance with Dothraki warriors. But the best character in the book is Tyrion Lannister the Imp, the Queen’s younger brother, a small man with large ambitions. What a fantastic book of storytelling and world building. Sometimes writers of fantasy are good a world building only to lack the storytelling chops. Or they can tell a good story but their world is badly realized and so hurts the book. Not here, George R.R. Martin knows what he’s doing and it’s exciting to finally finish this book. The endnig is perfectly realized and unforgettable.  I can’t wait to start the television adaptation now. It’s exactly the kind of epic this new television renaissance can realize. Grade: A

Homeland (Season 1)

If you loved the film the Manchurian Candidate, here’s a modern take on the story except instead of communists it’s Islamic extremists and terrorism. Claire Danes is absolutely wonderful as a CIA operative dealing with Bipolarism. Damian Lewis is the POW American Hero returned home, secretly planning a strike against the United States . . . or is he? Maybe he’s just misunderstood. What I love about this show is how intense it becomes. There are episodes where it’s impossible to keep still as the anticipation grows.  While the plot is a tad bit unbelievable (just a tad) it's still one of the most thrilling first seasons of a show I've seen in a long time.  I can't wait to see the next season.  Grade: A-

Broadway Idiot (2013)

Green Day is one of my guilty pleasures. I love their pop-punk melodies and catchy inventive lyrics. This documentary follows the behind-the-scenes making of the Broadway show based on Green Day’s huge hit American Idiot. Yet it’s also the story of how Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt and Tre Cool became enticed into the musical theater crowd. As a former thespian I easily related. The theater nerds of the world are awesome and make for great friends, which you can see these music icons realized upon this energetic and chaotic collaboration. I may never actually ever get a chance to see this show live but the documentary was very rewarding. Grade: A-

ExistenZ (1999)

Only David Cronenberg could dream up a film like this, a blend of science fiction multi-reality and weird fiction Lovecraft would cheer. The story revolves around an organic creature that allows people connected to it to play a virtual reality detective game. Yet the designer of the game and her biggest fan are on the run from those wanting to kill her, or are they on the run or just in her game? What’s real and what’s not? Is the gun that is made up of organic parts and that fires teeth as bullets real or just dreamed up to confuse you. Jennifer Jason Leigh and Jude Law star and I can’t celebrate this film enough. It’s kind of creepy and confusing and yet never boring. I wouldn’t say this is Cronenberg’s best film but it’s certainly one of his most daring and inventive. If you like his work or films that are willing to push the boundaries of what can happen in a film story, check out this wonderful wacky yarn. Grade: A-

The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan [Revisited]

It’s been a while since I read this book but now that The Wheel of Time series is finished with the help of Brandon Sanderson I’ve decided to start from the beginning and re-read the first nine books (which is where I left off some years ago) so I can see how it all ends. To assist me with this massive undertaking (these are big books after all) I’ve turned to the masterful readers Michael Kramer and Kate Reading, who are so good at reading this epic in audio book I’m considering to have them read the entire thing to me. They’re both amazing. But what about Robert Jordan’s first book? I get goose bumps even thinking about it. Here’s basically your classic story of a hero chosen to save the world. Except while Rand al’Thor is our main hero, the Dragon Reborn, Jordan gives us at least four more characters that are just as realized and important. You have Rand’s friends Perrin Aybara, Matrim Cauthon, Egwene al'Vere and Nynaeve al'Meara. We meet them all in their home village of Emond's Field as they live normal provincial lives. That’s until they meet an Aes Sedai named Moiraine Damodred (which is basically a woman wizard), her Warder Al'Lan Mandragoran (her bodyguard), and gleeman Thom Merrilin (a lone traveling entertainer). With their arrival comes an attack of Trollocs (pig-wolf-man-monsters) and dark friends which lead them all on a race across the world to find safety from the Dark One. On their way they’ll meet more foes and befriend others (like a woman who can see the future and a book reading giant) who will forever be linked to their destinies. This is fantasy at its best. The development of world and character is simply phenomenal. Some will accuse Robert Jordan of over-writing (and he does) but who cares when the storytelling is so great. I remember when I first read this book it affected my dreams (that’s how vivid it is). Now re-living it is just as exciting. I can’t wait to keep reading (or listening if you want to be precise). Grade: A

The Amazing Spider-man 2 (2014)

What an awful film. I had such high hopes for this second outing in this new Spider-man incarnation. The first Amazing Spider-Man was great and I really believed Marc Webb was going to give us a much improved film. I predicted the kind of sequel that The Dark Night was compared to Batman Begins. All the pieces were there: great chemistry with an awesome girlfriend, Gwen Stacey; a new villain being introduced in Harry Osborn AKA the Green Goblin and a cool reveal with Peter Parker’s parents. All of it wasted. This film is so uneven. It’s trying to appeal to kids and also trying to appeal to grownups with mature expectations. Please, can you just tell a good story. Is it a comedy or a drama? Webb and company don’t know so they’re going to blend it all up and force us to take whatever is left over. Jamie Foxx is Electro, the most lame super villain ever. We’re supposed to sympathize for the guy while laughing at his nerdy appearance. We’re supposed to see him rise and then cheer as Peter Parker kicks his ass. Character development is tossed out the window and replaced with future franchise development. Instead of watching the current film, I felt I was seeing a commercial for Sinister Six. Bad acting (Paul Giamatti) mixed with good acting (Sally Field). Awful music, average special effects (or at least below my expectations) mixed with solid moments of character exploration in Andrew Garfield. I don’t know what I hated more about this film: that it so disappointed me or that it could have been so much better. I don’t think there’s been such a classic comic story line wasted like this since X-Men The Last Stand’s mistreatment of the Dark Phoenix. This film was supposed to build off the first film and get me even more excited about this franchise. Well guess what Sony. This film is a franchise killer because I have no interest in seeing this Spider-man Universe anymore. Grade: C

Spoilers
One of the big mistakes with this franchise is the producers hurry to kill off Gwen Stacey. Why do you have to follow the comics, people? You didn’t have to kill one of the best aspects of your franchise. You could have at least developed the Green Goblin first and then killed her in the third film. Now you have to start from scratch and hope the actress you cast for Mary Jane is equally as likeable and compatible with Garfield as Emma Stone was. That’s what annoys me the most. The only character of this franchise that I really loved was her and they killed her. Which leads me to ask the question: does Spider-man need a love interest? Could they just have him fighting crime and that’s it? I don’t know the answer but I sure wish they would have waited another film before discarding her. It’s going to take some prodigious changes for me to get excited about this current version of the Web-Slinger.

Bates Hotel (Season 1)

There seems to be a new fade going on with television and that’s taking a pre-existing film or world and turning it into a show, usually a prequel. If there’s any prequel worth seeing it is this: who was Norman Bates and what was his mother really like before he killed her? (Spoiler alert for anyone who hasn’t seen Psycho, sorry). Then bring on two fantastic actors to play these roles in Vera Ann Farmiga and Freddie Highmore. What’s especially great about this show is how weird and unpredictable it is. Whether it be the enigmatic Sheriff or the loner big brother or the girl with Cystic fibrosis you never know what’s going to happen next. The monster that is Norman Bates is just getting started and I can’t wait to see how far they take this story. I suspect it ends with Norman bashing his mother over the head with a shovel but these writers might have something even stranger planned. Grade: A-