Wreck-It Ralph

Video games and movies never seem to mix well with people. Whether it's a movie licensed video game or a movie based on a video game, they just don't seem to make any progress with critics and fans. As for films ABOUT video games, the only film that has done that was "The Wizard," starring Fred Savage...That is until a little animated film came along from Disney, under the name "Wreck-It Ralph."

Now when the trailers first pop up in theaters and the internet, it sparked interest in more people than I could count. To me, it looked alright, and I felt like it was going to be Disney's attempt to be a love-letter to classic gaming for kids. It didn't look like anything special, mostly due to the fact that while it had some good people behind it, it wasn't a film that quite caught my attention, especially since Sarah Silverman was apart of the film. I'm sorry, but I really don't like Sarah Silverman, she's just one of those comedians whose just unappealing to me. But despite that, I still decided to give this film a try, due to the criticism I've been hearing about it.

So, when I bought my ticket, when I missed a chance to see "Skyfall," what did I think of the film?...I'm going to be honest...This was something that was MORE than what I was expecting, and it surpasses even THAT! What really comes out of this film is something that only comes once in a while, and I was glad for that. It's got a great story, it's got excellent animation and voice acting, and it's characters are so well developed. I would explain what the premise is, but I really want you to see the movie, so anything other than what's shown in the trailers is up to you to see.

With the characters, I got into at the drop of a bat. John C. Reilly gave a very soothing tone to his character of Ralph, as the bad guy who just wants to be given a bit of respect every once in a while. You feel strong sympathy for him, and it actually delves into what the bad guy thinks about all this. Jack McBrayer as Felix was also a very interesting character, and sold his performance well. His character is what you expect, basically playing Jack McBrayer. If you're not too familiar with Jack McBrayer, then you'll do fine with the film, as did I. Jane Lynch also has a role in the film as Sergeant Calhoun, and she does it fairly well, giving probably one her best performances to date. She tough, mean, and with how they explained her character was both funny and a bit sad. And you probably think I hated Sarah Silverman's character of Vanellope, but the biggest accomplishment this film was that she was more than just likable. I adored her character, she was cutsely annoying, she was funny, I even cried at the tender moments with her. THAT'S A HARD THING TO DO PEOPLE!

The animation and 3D were just fantastic, and what was really fun was seeing all these different video game characters in the background, which can be a fun little game for those watching it. The film was directed by Rich Moore, whose work consists of many episodes of "The Simpsons" and "Futurama." Most notable for "The Simpsons" are the first "Treehouse of Horror" and "Cape Feare," and "Futurama" are "Space Pilot 3000" and "Roswell Ends Well." It was very pleasant to see him take on a film of this kind of stature, and it shows much more than can be expected.

Overall, ‎"Wreck-It Ralph" isn't just some kids movie that's trying to be a love letter to classic gaming. It's a very strong hearted film with great characters, brilliant story telling, gorgeous animation, fantastic 3D, and is a film that parents of kids today can look at and say that it's something they'll cherish in their hearts for years to come. Moments that almost made me cry with how beautiful it was, is a sign of not just a good movie, but one that's very special and reminds me of the time when I was younger and loving every moment of video game playing with my older brothers and sisters. And if you guys are reading this, know that I miss you dearly, and I want you to know that "Wreck-It Ralph" is a film that will probably make you feel the same way.

Rating: 10/10 (I wish I could give it more!)

Argo

Ever since the hit success with "Gone Baby, Gone," Ben Affleck has really cemented himself as a very strong director. His style of passion in what he does is somewhat in the same style of Quinton Tarintino, where it can be both funny and serious at the same time. While I did enjoy "Gone Baby, Gone" and "The Town" which are both great films, it hasn't been enough for me to call Affleck my favorite director yet. That is until we got his most recent film, "Argo."

The film, based on a true story, tells of a man named Tony Mendez, an agent of the CIA who is assigned by his boss, Jack O'Donnell, to figure out how to get six Americans in Iran, who have information on the country's current prime minister. To get them out, Mendez teams up with John Chambers to pose as a Canadian film crew for a fake Star Wars knock-off called "Argo," and be filming in other countries. I was really intrigued by this film, in just as many ways as I could find. But not only that, but it really does showcase it as a film that's for fans of filmmaking, BSing your way out of things, and having strong tension.

Ben Affleck really did a great job as both the director and star of this film, and it shows very well how he's evolved as an actor since "Chasing Amy," "Good Will Hunting," and "DareDevil." His style of directing has grown more and more stronger with every passing film, and this film's his best by far. Bryan Cranston plays Jack, and his performance is as good as any. For a guy who grew up watching "Malcolm in the Middle," it really is a interesting feel, seeing this actor in such a serious role that turns out to be his best by far. John Goodman as John Chambers was just hilarious to watch. His timing with jokes, just the way he thinks, it's all such a great character. I love how he has this smartass attitude that really gets me laughing every time, and he really sells the role. Kyle Chandler also has an appearance as Hamilton Jordon, who was the Chief of Staff during Carter's years as president, and he has great character as this person. This film is surely to appeal to those who either grew up about the events that happened, or anyone who's heard about it, and it is a film that works on almost every level.

Overall, "Argo" is a fantastic film, and now with it being Oscar season, this is probably going to be up there for "Best Picture," "Best Director," "Best Supporting Actor," and "Best Make-up." Ben Affleck has, yet again, delivered an great film, and is now among my favorite directors.

Rating: 10/10