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

Silent Hill: Revelation 3D

I've got nothing...I'm sorry, but I've seriously got nothing on this one.

If you're a Silent Hill fan, you'll hate it. If not, you'll be confused if you didn't see the first film.

Good: Production value, sets, costumes, effects, acting, and 3D.

Bad: Dialogue and story.



Rating: ?/10

ParaNorman

Zombies are a genre that have stood as one of the most iconic creatures. The film that started the whole thing out, was George A. Romero's "Night of the Living Dead," being the start of the films. "Dawn of the Dead" had stepped things up as the first Zombie film in color, and much gore to it. "Shaun of the Dead," while a parody of the genre, still stayed fresh in it's own right. And last, but not least, "Zombieland" stands as the film that perfected it. Now, we take a look at the first animated zombie film, "ParaNorman."
The film tells the story of Norman Babcock, a boy who has the supernatural ability to see ghosts, but no one seems to believe him, except his friend Neil. One day, his uncle comes to warn him that the witch's ghost is about to awaken, and Norman is the only one who can fill in the position that he did. But things go wrong, when he runs out of time, and soon zombies that executed the witch comes back to life, and now Norman will need help to solve the crisis ahead and save the town.
The animation was really astonishing, being the best stop-motion animation I've seen since "Nightmare Before Christmas," and that's saying a lot. I also was really greatful on how it's a strong homage to classic horror films in the passed, all while being its own original story. The zombies were really creative in how they were made, and looks greatfully like a zombie in how it looks. If there was one part that I would say stood out, it would have to be the writing, due to it being very witty and creative. There's so much great humor in the film, that it fits for both adults and kids alike, even if it's sexual humor.

The characters were also established well, because they felt like actual characters, and not just cardboard cutouts of characters. With Norman being the sort of outcast character, but you actually feel sympathy for him. Norman's sister, Courtney, was pretty much what most teenage girls are now today, so it was funny to see this character develop like an actual character. My favorite character out of them would have to be the little chubby kid, Neal, we was a very likable character, and just whenever he was on screen had a funny moment to it. Even his older brother, played by Casey Affleck, was an enjoyment, especially at the end, and is one of the most humorous twists I've ever seen.

Overall, "ParaNorman" should be a great time to watch for horror fans, animation goers, and movie goers alike. If you haven't seen it on the big screen, don't miss your chance to see it on the small screen.


Rating: 10/10

Next Time: Silent Hill: Revelation 3D

Frankenweenie

After the COLOSSAL disappointment that was "Dark Shadows" and "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter," I was starting to lose interest in Tim Burton's work. It was just so annoying how his work in the past decade has ranged from either good, bad, or just okay. That's when I made this promise, that if his next film wasn't good, I would be officially done with Tim Burton. So now we have "Frankenweenie," and continuing on with the Halloween film reviews.

First, a little backstory. "Frankenweenie" was originally a black-and-white short film, made in 1984, and was one of Tim Burton's first projects, when he first worked for Disney. It was about a boy named Victor Frankenstein, who after witnessing the death of his dog Sparky, decides to bring him back to life. How? With SCIENCE of course! For a short film, it's not too bad. The acting's pretty good, and the nice little references were pretty funny. However, this short never saw the light of day, until it was on VHS in the 90's, when Burton became more well-known. This project is what got him fired from Disney, thinking it was too scary, and wouldn't be with the re-release of "Pinocchio." Yeah, kids can take children turning into donkeys, but CLEARLY a boy bring a dog back to life is too much. And this was BEFORE cencorship got too much.

Since then, Burton's gotten to become a household name, and when he started to collaborate with Disney again, signing on to do two 3D films, the other being "Alice in Wonderland," Burton was set to do a remake of the short that he made, longer and in stop-motion. How did it turn out? Well, better than what I had expected, and even more! This was a glorious movie to watch, just in time for the Halloween season.

The film does follow the same formula as the last, but with some added context to it. We see more of Victor's relationship with Sparky, and what he does in his time. He's into making his own little movies with Sparky, and it's very creative to see how well they do it. Not only that, we're introduced to more of the neighborhood, including some of Victor's classmates and see what's unique about them, like how one girl's very creepy and has a cat that can predict the future, one kid looking like the Frankenstein monster, and another looking like Igor, even being named 'Edgar E. Gore,' as well as Victor's neighbor and assumed love interest has the last name, 'van Helsing.' I also found it pretty clever, how the teacher Martin Landau plays looks like Vincent Price, whom Burton draws inspiration from.  And let's just say the other elements added the film were very fun to watch, and give the movie some pretty interesting substance, but I'm I the only one who thought the added stuff made this movie darker than the original? I'm not saying it's a bad thing, I'm just making a point.

The stop-motion animation was pretty good, and it was just so much fun this year, to see three great stop-motion movies this year. And needless to say, Burton finally delivered a remake that was actually better than the original, and it was of his own work. This is by far his best film since "Sleepy Hallow," which is another good remake. The 3D was also used very effectively, and the imagery really captures on how 3D and stop-motion can be used right.

Overall, "Frankenweenie" is a great Tim Burton movie that goes back to his roots, and is one of my favorite movies of the year. Sadly, I wished this film wasn't bombing at the box office as hard as it was, because it's definitely worth the price of admission, especially for the 3D.

Rating: 10/10

Next time: ParaNorman

Hotel Transylvania

Well, it's that time of year again for the Halloween spirit to take over the place. We'll be seeing decorations in stores, many costumes being made...but sadly, that charm among most has been growing dimmer and dimmer, due to some "parents" thinking Halloween should be safer and more friendly. But THAT'S not what I'm here about! This year, we'll be talking about the Halloween films of this year. What qualifies as a Halloween film? Well, it has to be A) The film takes place on Halloween the entire film; B) Have classic monsters in it, or have reference to them; or C) A horror film released during late September or during October. So without further ado, let's start with "Hotel Transylvania!"

"Hotel Transylvania" tells the story of Dracula, who creates a incredibly hidden castle, that is the sanctuary for all monsters, but was created to protect her daughter, Mavis, from the outside world. But when a mountain climber named Jonathan arrives at the hotel, Drac has to keep him hidden from the other monsters, all the while Jon and Mavis start to grow more attached to each other. Now, you might think this sounds simple, and it is for the most part, in a good way. It knows how to keep itself entertaining and still enjoyable for what it is.

The casting works in its own way. Adam Sandler plays the role of Dracula, and he gives it the typical Adam Sandler performance, in terms of voice acting that is. Being the second animated Sandler film (after "8 Crazy Nights" back in 2002), it's a big improvement. Not only that, but they give him a strong backstory to why he has a dislike for humans in the first place. I was really taken by that, so I give props. Mavis played by Selena Gomez was pretty good for what she did. Originally, Mavis was said to be played by Miley Cyrus, but she dropped the project. I'm glad they went with Gomez instead, since I think she's the better actress. And I'd be lying, if I didn't say Mavis was cute. Andy Samberg as Jonathan was also a joy to watch, being the man of the modern world, but not to a certain extent. I probably would have walked out, if he said anything that the typical high school idiot would say...oh god, just thinking about it makes me cringe. I also found the other characters to be enjoyable, like Kevin James as Frankenstein's monster, Steve Buscemi as the werewolf, David Spade as the invisible man, Cee Lo Green as the mummy, etc. All of them were enjoyable in their own right.

The animation in the film was just spectacular in several ways. Sony Animation has really shown to do great animation, just like with "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs." It was well paced, it really had so much to look at, and it showcases many monsters in such creative ways. While knowing Adam Sandler and Andy Samberg were in the film was a good enough treat, what made me really enjoy the film was the director, Genndy Tartakovsky, the creator of "Dexter's Laboratory," "Symbiotic Titan," and "Samurai Jack," three of my all time favorite cartoons. I'm glad to see that he's still getting work, and I'm hoping that sooner or later he gets a studio to green-light him to do a "Samurai Jack" movie, after over a decade.

Overall, "Hotel Transylvania" is a film that is ripe for the Halloween season. It's fun, its humor is clever, its got fantastic animation, and it's one of my favorite movies of the year so far. If you're a fan of Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, or Genndy Tartakovsky, you'll love this movie. However, if you're not into CG animation, Samberg, or Sandler, then you'll skip this.

Rating: 10/10


Next time: Frankenweenie

Taken 2

In 2008, we were given the Pierre Morel film, "Taken," starring Liam Neeson. It told the story of Bryan Mills, a former CIA agent who's daughter was kidnapped, while on a trip to Paris. When Mills finds out about it, he goes the extreme to find the culprits, kill them, and get his daughter back. While it was a simple premise and critics were a bit mixed by it, the film has gained a strong cult following from action fans alike. Not only that, this film is what made Neeson a successful action star, appearing in such films as "The A-Team," "The Grey," and "Unknown."

Now we've come to the 6th, and sadly final, movie that Liam Neeson appears in for this year. The sequel to the film that made him the badass he is today, "Taken 2." How was it? Maybe not as good as the original, but still an enjoyment either way.

"Taken 2," takes place after the first film, with Bryan Mills' daughter and ex-wife coming with him to Istanbul for Spring Break, while he's at work. However, the relatives of the people that Mills killed are hunting him down, and now it's a game of cat-and-mouse for Mills and his hunters. While the plot might be simple, it doesn't mean it's bad if it knows how to make it work right.

As always, Liam Neeson gives a strong performance as he did in the original. He's smart, he's cautious, and he still has the same intimidation factor as with the first movie. I was generally surprised by Maggie Grace's performance, now that she has more to work with, other than being a hostile character from the first film. She does try to keep herself strong, as long as she's following her father's guild-lines  and it works. However, that doesn't quite make up for her atrocious performance in "Lockout." Yeah, thought I forgot about that movie, didn't ya?

As for the rest of the cast...well, not much can be said. The villains wanting vengeance are what they are, so nothing much can be said. The mother played by Famke Janssen, while not bad, didn't really leave much an impression. That might be due to her being a minor character in the first, but thankfully it doesn't take away anything from the film. Many of the other characters, like Mills friends in the CIA, are on the same level, and like I said, don't take anything from the movie.

The action scenes are great, but don't really hold up to what the original had. Instead of Pierre Morel as director, we have Olivier Megaton, who was the director of the Zoe Saldana film, "Columbiana," and it's a vast improvement in terms of action. It was also produced by Luc Besson, producer of the first film, as well as the "Transporter" trilogy, the "Taxi" quadrilogy, and "The Fifth Element," which he also directed. His production value really helps this film, and the shots of Istanbul really work well for this movie.

Overall, "Taken 2" may not be as good as the original, but it's still just as fun watching. If you're looking for a good time, then give this movie a go, and if they DO decide to do a third film, I'll be there for it.

Rating: 8/10