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Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
A great belated sequel that either matches and/or tops the original
How to do you top the gold standard and quintessential fighter pilot film of the 80's? You honor and respect the source material while introducing a new generation of characters that earns the respect and love from its loyal fan base.
Heneral Luna (2015)
A Filipino biopic film that keeps you on the edge of your seat
Heneral Luna is one of those rare Filipino films that's entertaining and keeps you on the edge of your seat. The film is based on the titular national hero Antonio Luna a Filipino general who believes he can turn the tide of war against in the invading Americans back then. He was also known for his temperamental yet tough love attitude towards his incompetent soldiers and political rivals.
John Arcilla was spot on to play this role, and so does Mon Confiado as the Philippine president Emilio Aguinaldo. Little is his screen time but when you see him, you see that he's calm yet you feel that there's something fishy going on with him. While we may credit him as the father of Philippine Independence and Republic, he's not without flaws. And with the execution of Andres Bonifacio associated with him and Luna, history has become not been very kind with him.
But that's history, sometimes you have to take some serious choices to make a difference, even if it's not the popular one. And both men made their own choices, as Harvey Dent once said: "Either you die a hero or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain." and yes Luna died a hero and Aguinaldo and his conspirators lived with stained reputations till the end.
Godzilla (2014)
The Godzilla movie done right.
After 10 years of disappearance from the big screen, the king of all monsters is back and this time it's a far far better one than the much maligned 1998 version. Though the movie has its flaws, I think Bryan Cranston should have taken the lead role. His character was the only one that stood out the rest and was very well-written and developed, Good thing the build up to the big lizard's resurgence was there to overshadow the cardboard characters. But seriously folks, I paid to see Godzilla come back and like all its movies that came before, the human characters were mere reactors and commentators of the behemoth's presence. I liked how the big lizard was re-introduced to this generation, it wasn't rebooted and it wasn't very expository. For those who complained that the lizard lacked screen time, I believe in the old saying "Less is more." In closing, this Godzilla film serves as an antidote to all movies today especially in a time where I have become somewhat fatigued of the comic book and action genre that has clocked around 2 hours and 30 minutes only to highlight collateral damage.
Warrior (2011)
The best sports drama film to date
In every sports drama film, there is the underdog overcoming the arrogant champion, the washed up aging athletes seeking redemption and coaches who come up with a pep talk to boost the morale of the team every half time. In Warrior, it doesn't follow the traditions. The mixed martial arts tournament serves only as a backdrop to a broken family composed of two brothers and their father. You have the elder brother, Brendan who enters the tournament to save his home from foreclosure while the younger brother Tommy enters to make a promise to his fallen comrade by giving the prize money to the widowed. The father however, longs to redeem himself by reconciling with his children who also are...estranged. What's so unique about Warrior is that there is no clear protagonist and antagonist, it is about their own issues that they're up against, particularly Tommy who has this deep resentment towards his father and elder brother. It is a story about forgiveness and redemption from the sins of the past, I'm hoping that this film would get Oscar nominations. It's a highly recommended movie for the family and their teenage children as well.
The Untouchables (1987)
A feel good Gangster Movie that evades the typical Gangster Movies
In the UNTOUCHABLES, We see a whole new perspective on the traditional gangster mob flicks like THE GODFATHER, GOODFELLAS, THE DEPARTED and SCARFACE where the Gangsters are the "Good Guys". Here we see an idealistic Federal agent Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) struggling to defeat his enemy Al Capone (played by a temperamentally dangerous performance by Robert De Niro) with alleged criminal activities that can't be penetrated easily.
Enter a Veteran Police officer Malone (Sean Connery who won an Academy Award for this film), Newly Recruited Agent Stone (Andy Garcia), and an Accountant (Charles Martin Smith) and the whole criminal empire goes bananas. Though Capone strikes back at them even with the help of shady Cops and Hit men, but in the end Good triumphs over evil especially when they think that "You're nothing but a lot of talk and a badge". Observe while Capone says it many times, at first he's not affected and says it arrogantly but in the long run he's becoming more outraged and frustrated of his fate.
Some have criticized the film by being cheesy and a bit light especially with the music score, but that's the way the film was intended to be. It is a big innovative turn for Gangster films where you see the plot, and the characters are dark and somewhat irredeemable, sometimes you want to see a film that has a feel-good experience and this is one of those films that you would walk away from the theater with a smile. It is the "300" for Gangster movies.
Here endeth the review.
The Dark Knight (2008)
A comic book movie turned into a detective crime masterpiece
The Dark Knight is one of those comic book based films that has raised the bar. Though the movie is 2 hours and 30 minutes long, the film has become a detective action drama in the vein of The Untouchables where our Dark Knight (Christian Bale) is the Eliot Ness and The Joker (Heath Ledger) is the Al Capone. In the course of the film Harvey Dent is represented to be the one who would replace Batman in the crusade of cleaning Gotham City with the intent of retiring to pursue his normal life but things go wrong when the Joker has become a major threat. Joker really is a worthy adversary to the Batman, he pounds him psychologically and tactically especially to Harvey Dent. I liked the way Aaron Eckhart portrayed Harvey Dent, he was played not as a villain but a victim of circumstances it makes his character more human. As for the Joker, he's really scary most of the time but provided some little laughs. It's too bad that Heath Ledger passed away I hope he'd get an Oscar nomination for this, he's really good. Eckhart, Ledger and even Gary Oldman are the stars of the film, Batman became more of the supporting actor in the film process and it works.
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Inspirational
I have to admit I ignored this film in the 90's because I thought it was a violent film set in a prison with a bleak experience but seeing it last Holy Week, the movie moved and inspired me. The film was about Hope, Faith, Friendship and Determination and Guts, We have been prisoners of our own lives whether it be jobs, family life, social issues, you name it which becomes so routinary yet we never dared to grow further ahead that there are things outside our walls that are never discovered. This film teaches you that.
What use is our dreams, talents and positive outlook in life when we're not determined to push it further to the next level? It is really an inspiring film to watch over and over again, and something that you could share and teach to other people who have given up hope and faith. Indeed it quickly became one of my latest movie bibles of all time Whenever you feel hopeless and down watch this film and be revitalized to pursue your dreams and recover from your losses.
Get busy living or get busy dying.
Transformers (2007)
It's the beginning of the next movie franchise
Transformers was a part of my childhood since 1984, then the animated movie in 1986. Now in the year 2007, after I have finished watching the live-action film I have not just enjoyed the whole film but I am witnessing the birth of the next movie franchise. Shia LaBeouf is great being Sam "Spike" Witwicky so as his sexy leading lady Megan Fox.
The special effects also have pushed the enveloped once again thanks to George Lucas' Industrial Light and Magic. The transformations were awesome and so as the action scenes It's big and Loud it's what you expect from a Michael Bay film. I'm also glad that Peter Cullen is back to reprise his role as Optimus Prime. Bumblebee, Ratchet, Jazz and Ironhide were the right Autobots for this film.
In Closing, Transformers is a very promising franchise film and it has pave the way to open the new trend in Hollywood and that is to make cartoon shows such as G.I. Joe, ThunderCats, Silverhawks, etc. turned into potential future live-action films.
Spider-Man 3 (2007)
The ending was poignant
Spider Man 3 opened on May 1st here in the Philippines. I went to see it on IMAX, it's themes now is about revenge and forgiveness. I liked the concept of Peter Parker getting his success into his head especially when he dons the black suit, He's like a geeky bully much more worse than Harry Osborn and the other villains.
The flaw in this film is really the ending it's not triumphant, maybe it's because of Harry's fate and there's no reason for Spidey to swing for one last time, well I hope we get to see an alternate ending to this on DVD.
The real star is of course James Franco, he really is a promising actor and we hope to see him more, he really is Darth Vader of the Spider Man world, you'll get to see why when you see the film.
Overall this third or possibly the last installment is the most emotionally charged of all. and what a poignant way to close the series with tears from your eyes.
300 (2006)
A Hip and Modern take on all epic battle films
300 is the story of King Leonidas and his Spartans who made their last stand against an army of Persians. You know that it's somewhat hopeless for these guys but they knew that death was coming for them and are brave enough to face it. But before they do, they made sure that they made King Xerxes very furious by decreasing his army from millions to thousands if I'm correct.
Most epic films tend to be very serious and very reserved. In this film, Synder succeeds by incorporating every modern film-making technique including bullet time and choreography in every battle sequence, so as the additional rock score and some modern dialog where King Leonidas say "We're in for a one wild night." it's so effective that it made the film very hip and cool to watch.
300 is a very innovative take on period films which has never been attempted before, for it is the first of it's kind. Recommend for all young adult viewers especially the Matrix generation, Long live the Spartans...AAHOOOO!!!! AAHOOOO!!!!
Star Wars (1977)
The movie that changed all movies
What would be a movie like without Star Wars? This has the elements of a classic story. George Lucas really created a world of this own, combined with then revolutionary visual effects, and story telling that would be it's main core to this beloved saga. Now that it's turning 30 years old, It really deserves to be seen once again in the big screen.
Sir Alec Guiness carries the wisdom as Obi-Wan Kenobi into his fellow actors giving depth to what the Force is about, the Clone Wars and The history of Luke's father. I also enjoyed Darth Vader's presence in the film, he really is one of the most feared villains in motion picture history especially in Episode V.
For all the newbies of the Star Wars saga, I suggest you see this film too especially who has yet a hangover on Episode III. You will never regret it I promise you.
DOA: Dead or Alive (2006)
Quite better than Charlie's Angels
This film ain't pushing the girl power formula it's just a group of fighters whose main protagonists are mostly women. DOA is quite good and i might think to see it again, I like everybody in the film my comment is that they have to trim down the comic elements i think it was too much especially Christie's partner he's quite annoying.
I expected it to be a charlie's angels film but it's not. DOA is one of those films you'd like to see if you are into popcorn films, and the fight choreography is worth the price of the ticket they actually applied the moves of the characters on the video game. It makes me wanna play the video game when after seeing it!
Snakes on a Plane (2006)
A real first-class edge of your seat thriller
I love Snakes on a Plane I think it's the first of it's kind and a real first-class thriller since JAWS. I wish the internet fans should support the movie more than building it's hype, this is the film in which I should recommend for you to bring your friends, or your date in watching this film.
Sam's the man and i have to admit he has a way of swearing. I also love the flight attendant who has a crush on the witness and so as the girl who has those very big knockers only to be bitten by a very lucky snake.
To all who will watch it, just sit back, relax and enjoy the fright for you will have the best snakebites of your lives!!! make it reach the 100 million dollar mark at the box office you snake fans!!!!
The Omen (2006)
I miss the music score of Goldsmith
That's the only thing that i'd comment, for this fast paced remake. Schriber and Stiles are good but the supporting actors such as Mia Farrow and David Thewlis steal the show the creepy little kid is quite creepy and eerie. The new scenes added are important enough to make the new OMEN timely to be seen today due to all that's been happening in our world today.
The Bottomline i think religious thrillers such as Da Vinci Code are now the trend films of the year. With all the horror, gore and ghouls that's been on the big screen lately it's smart to release this good remake of the film. The difference of the two films is that the old one relies the terror with Jerry Golsmith's score and the pace of the story these two elements are the factors while the remake relies on the fast pace of the plot and it's shocks
I still like the old Omen but this is a worthy remake for the new generations of fans.
X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
A Fitting end
I have seen x-men 3 and i gotta tell you it's really good yet it's different from the previous two. But what makes this third and last film special is that all bets are off which means anything goes. I think there's no need for more exposition or character development in the film because it has previously been told on the first and second.
The climactic battle is far the best battle scene in the X-Men trilogy although my little problem is the introduction scene, I believe that Brett should followed Charles Xavier's narration then the titles and the exposition of Jean Grey's character and to the danger room. but still, anything goes.
He brilliantly followed the formula of a last chapter of a trilogy in which scenes are repeated in the first X-Men where Rogue runs away and scenes which are mostly Deja Vu plus anyone in the main character can die.
I may have spoiled this review but i wouldn't tell you the whole story so i suggest that you see X-Men in it's last and fulfilling chapter.
Fantastic Four (2005)
"Four" the whole family to enjoy
I have to say that Fanasic four is the first time a comic-book film that is targeted the whole family to enjoy besides The Incredibles.
It's so unfortunate to see that people like to see Dark superheroes, It's becoming exhausting. Batman Begins is dark, X-Men is dark, Hulk is dark, Elektra is dark, even the first Spider-Man is somewhat dark. Fantastic Four is a returning fresh film that doesn't follow the trend of the Dark Superhero comic formula. Darkness is illuminating yes I agree, but don't you think we should tame the slumping box office game with a flame?
I hope this film makes more money domestic and worldwide it deserves it a lot. I think the reason why the box office game is deteriorating is because there are no films targeted for younger audiences. Despite the film is PG-13 Fantastic Four is for everyone. Let's give the children a chance to see wholesome films once more.
Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005)
Lucas has his revenge
Revenge of the Sith was worth the wait on the big screen. Although there are a few flaws with regards to dialog and pace, we finally witnessed and understood Anakin's downfall, it's just sad that my fellow Star Wars fans are still having some issues with his descent to the Dark Side.
His downfall is no different from any man desiring to become the most wealthy and powerful figure, by any means necessary. In life, you really have to make a choice and have to take a side, for nothing is neutral when it comes to the issues of personal gain and evil intentions.
I just wished that George could have referenced Citizen Kane more in this very remarkable installment, The lightsaber duels of both Anakin/Obi-Wan and Yoda/Palpatine is worth seeing. The Visual effects are awesome especially the opening space battle sequence which gave us a very good reminder that this is a Star Wars film.
The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003)
I don't get it why critics dismiss this film?!
LXG is a fun-filled action film. It doesn't have to portray so much exposition and depth like X-Men because they are both different. The LXG yes has some exposition yet the pacing carried the whole film, there were no dull moments. X-Men is a fully combination of the two action and depth. But LXG has twists after twists after twists, you don't know if the characters in the team is a good guy or bad guy and back again.
Will we see a sequel again? it depends upon the execs. but for me, LXG carries on itself solely it doesn't need a sequel.
Congratulations to all who the cast and crew!
Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003)
An Apocalyptic Sequel
Jonathan Mostow (U-571) did a fantastic job. I wish Jim Cameron would commend him for taking care of his films, Despite that I really missed his directing so as Linda Hamilton, Michael Biehn and Brad Fiedel. Nick Stahl did a good job playing the adult John Connor, So as Kristanna Loken playing T-X...I Love you! And for Claire Danes, I wish the director had chosen another leading lady she doesn't look tough enough.
Arnold thanks for doing a sequel again. T3 has an ending with an apocalyptic note, yet filled with messages of Hope. Meaning, it doesn't matter whether you win or lose in a crisis that you're facing in life, but how you survive and endure in those trials and still keep on fighting...If they decide to do more sequels, they must finish the last chapter of the whole termiator saga with a happy ending where humans triumph over the machines eventually.
Hulk (2003)
It Works!
Most typical viewers expect the film as a straight forward comic book action/adventure film. But they were wrong, Ang Lee did well in making the Hulk different from any other comic book hero film. The Hulk's story is pure drama, The X-Men, Daredevil and Spider-Man are fighting for their beliefs while he is trying to isolate himself from his curse.
Ang Lee's adaptation of the Hulk is geniusly unrealized. I have to admit there are times in which the pacing of the film is quite slow but it still works. If Ang Lee would do a sequel he should devote time on the visual effects of the green giant, I know it's his first time dealing with visual effects just like Bryan Singer when he was still making X-Men I hope that experience could help him in the future.
All the praises for the cast and crew, they did justice to the Hulk. I expect more drama, more action, powerful villains and a poignant music score just like in the TV series.
Final Destination 2 (2003)
Faster plot and more intense
If the first film's highlight was Amanda Detmer's death scene, The second film's highlight was with the airbag, FD2's plot is much more faster. I wouldn't say that this is a teen-slasher horror film, It's just plain horror, And most characters involved here are adults.
I like the coincidence and the connections of each character cheating death it really worked. Ali Larter did a good job passing the baton to A.J. Cook and Michael Landes for the next one. I'm also glad Tony Todd is still there in the film, In closing, the series is one of the most original horror films of all time I wish the final chapter would be more dramatic yet horrific at the same time.
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)
I'd rather look forward to Return of the King
The Battle of Helm's deep is just good to the eyes for a few minutes, I got very fatigued while watching it, I only bought Gimli's comic relief and Gollum's psychopathic performance. The Fellowship of the Ring is still much better for me, By now I realize The Lord of the Rings is all about Aragorn not Frodo because he returns as the King on the last one. But Boromir is the best character of the Trilogy he's a real human, I'd wait for the last one instead this is a sandwiched film.
**1/2 out of 4 stars
The Transformers: The Movie (1986)
First of it's kind
This is the first animated movie that was based on a popular animated TV show and the first film that tapped the subject of death. WE know that in the TV screen the Autobots and The Decepticons get hit by intense firepower but they're alright and manage to stand up but in this film we see them blown to bits like Starscream or Ironhide.
Although the film has flaws on the technical side but the plot is way excellent. I hope someone should produce a Special improved edition of this animated film, it deserves an overhaul and remastered in THX and DTS surround. The critics are wrong about this film maybe it's way ahead of it's time, Stan Bush and Vince DiCola's music really fits the film it gives the heroes and the viewers a sense of hope especially when the most darkest hours are present, Orson Welles did a good job in his final performance as Unicron despite not completed entirely.
Lastly this is the first animated film that made me cry.
Jackass: The Movie (2002)
Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! is equivalent to 5 stars
This movie is not for the faint of heart, Although this is not really a film but it is a story containing hilarious plots to make you laugh like a Donkey. Despite the film will be shown next year here in the Philippines (which I would like to see it again on the big screen), I'm very proud to say that I've seen it first in my vacation recently in Hawaii. I hope the DVD release is worth the wait and the TV series compilation, For I would know this is the first and the last Jackass film were going to see because they are already famous And they have more money now.
Thanks for the wonderful laughs Johnny Knoxville and the rest of the cast We're going to miss you and thanks for being a Jackass!
Hannibal (2001)
Hannibal is the star of his film
People who didn't like Hannibal are complete idiots! Isn't it obvious that the title of the movie is HANNIBAL? he is the main character not Clarice. He is the guy who kills now not BUFFALO BILL or RED DRAGON.
LAMBS won Oscars yes but for ten years since HANNIBAL came, nobody knew what HANNIBAL can do. This is the film to see what he can do best, I only saw the Oscar winning film because of this one. Yes it was indeed good but in the end HANNIBAL is always was the star.
Hannibal outgrossed Lambs at the box office and gained worldwide recognition especially to horror fans as well Lambs just didn't. As a matter of fact nobody cared for the Oscar winning film until this film came, don't you get it? What HANNIBAL did was to re-introduce himself being a famous character and his participation at silence of the lambs as well, too much plotting to a film can put you to sleep The more deeper plot you put on a film the more a film gets complicated.
Julianne Moore did a good job playing Clarice Starling so as Jodie but this is Starling after 10 years and Hannibal after 10 years since Lambs. Put many psychological expositions but nothing can beat The dinner scene.
Eat your brains out naysayers