Movie Love: Angel Has Fallen

Listen, Angel Has Fallen was A LOT, maybe even TOO MUCH. I had a swell time overall and the movie was pretty good. But the violence, especially those explosions and kill counts was just too much for me. Which says plenty because I love action. But I've been a war movie kind of girl and this went deep into that territory. I don't even have that much of a review other than if you enjoyed the other films, this is up your valley. But be prepared for WAY more violence. If you thought London Has Fallen was violent, then you are NOT prepared for Angel.

The movie takes us on a crazed misadventure of what would happen if dark forces took over the United States government and doesn't give you time to grasp the concept. The explosions are massive and non-stop and the kills are gory. I'm so glad my mother decided at the last minute to stay home. She did not need this mess at her age. I recommend you decide your violence factor, especially when it's made realistic, before going to see this. Swell movie, hella traumatizing. Yeah, recommend only if you feel safe with this type of film. I'm still shell shocked and it's been nearly a week since I saw it.

Thanks for stopping by.

Movie Love: Dora And The Lost City Of Gold

I saw the movie last Saturday and it was an adventure in and of itself. Dora was a young fearless teen willing to go above and beyond for friends, family, and adventure. It was great seeing a girl going for what she wanted with self-confidence and attitude. Yes, some considered her strange but she was willing to be herself. Even after having a sad moment when the teen was made to feel bad by her own cousin, Diego. This girl from the animated series for children turned live-action film, was a badass.

Dora translated from animation to live-action did a spectacular job. Even keeping her catchphrases and quirks. It was fun seeing others look at her strangely when she spoke to the screen breaking the fourth wall like in the animated series. Plus they did a magnificent job with Swiper. The CGI fox looked and sounded real. The monkey, Boots worked as well and had his own moments of hilarity. The cast did their job providing a fun and adventurous experience that will be loved by children and translate to adults like myself. My theater cheered and had fun with what happened on screen. Children and adults alike. The stakes were both funny and serious. Though a grand twist was seen from miles away. The challenges Dora and company faced were satisfying to watch.

If you want a fun adventure film to bring the family together. This is for you. Hell, even to curl up by yourself and have a bit of danger. 

Are you a fan of Dora? Have you seen the film? Thanks for stopping by.

Movie Love: Brightburn and Glass Trailer #3

Hey guys, I have two trailers to discuss today. So settle in.

Brightburn

Ever wondered what it would be like if Superman were evil. Not temporarily or through some alternate dimension. But he straight up grows to become a bad guy. Well, May 2019 we will have our answer through this movie. The trailer is nice and eerie. Starting out hopeful with amazing parallels to the birth of Superman as a child. Then something happens and this child takes a turn and starts doing wicked things. We got just enough to be left wanting more. What about you?

Glass Trailer #3

This new trailer just builds on the previous ones. Each a masterpiece in showing why this movie is a must see. Mr. Glass is back and has teamed up with The Beast to cause havoc. Can one hero beat these two maniacs in a realistic depiction of superheroes and villains? Find out January 2019.

(Sorry trailer won't show up)

Thanks for stopping by.

Movie Love: Artemis Fowl Teaser Trailer

Disney is really going out there with trailers in November. There's even the rumor out there that we will soon be getting the Avengers 4 teaser trailer. But right now I'm discussing the spanking new trailer dropped today for Artemis Fowl.

According to the synopsis on Wikipedia: In order to rescue his criminal father and restore the family fortune, Artemis Fowl II and his trusted servant and bodyguard Domovoi Butler seek the existence of fairies (believing that it makes a connection to his father) in hopes of robbing them.

Personally, I found the trailer to be very lacking. The music was really good and so was the voice over but other than a few scenes I found everything to be meh and confusing. This isn't something like The Lion King where familiarity is to be expected and you can easily get away with little or no introduction. What I got from this at first was that some kid was out there somewhere causing mischief...oh and there's magic. Um, ok. That is not going to make me run for the theaters much less the full trailer. Plus there are adults fighting, a female transforms and floats in the air and that boy who seems to be Artemis Fowl stands around in a suit. Yup, that's the trailer from my view.

Thankfully I was able to find out more via watching trailer reactions and looking up on the books. I will say on the positive side that the trailer reminded me that I have been meaning to buy the book. I ended up buying the first three in a box set on Book Depository ($26 US for three books is a steal!). I wish I could give more details on this trailer but it was too confusing to me. The trailer is below and so is a reaction from Youtuber, Grace Randolph. Hopefully, both can do better than I did.

P.S.: As a fairy fan I'm not appreciative of some genius punk robbing them. I hope he gets his ass kicked.

Here's one regular movie review/news Youtuber, Grace Randolph's reaction:

Have you seen the trailer? What do you think? Are you familiar with the Artemis Fowl book or mythos? Thanks for stopping by. See you tomorrow for Waiting on Wednesday.

Movie Love: Films I Plan to See in 2018

Author Announcement: Sacrifice Her has been renamed Running Scared. View cover reveal and new plot here. Add on Goodreads. The Sacrifice Series is now tentatively set for Fall 2019. The other four covers will be revealed together early 2019. Thanks for all your support.

So the Christmas holidays are over a month away but that doesn't mean the movie season isn't swinging. So far for 2018, I've seen these films in theaters: Hotel Artemis, Incredibles 2, Antman and the Wasp, Equalizer 2 and Venom.

Films I Plan to See (hopefully)

The Grinch

Ralph Breaks the Internet

If Beale Street Could Talk

Mary Queen of Scots

Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse

Mary Poppins

Aquaman

Bumblee

I sort of want to see

Creed 2

Green Book

Mortal Engines

Note: Mowgli: LOTJ and Roma are coming out on Netflix (and theaters) so I'll stream those.

Thank you for stopping by and enjoy your weekend.

Movie Love: Most and Least Anticipated Movies 2018

Hey guys, Happy 2018. I'm glad to be back and ready to take this blog into the New Year. Today I'll be sharing my top ten list of movies I do and don't want to see in the theaters for 2018. Feel free to name any on your mind for this year as well.

Most Anticipated

1. Avengers Infinity Wars

2. Wreck-It Ralph 2

3. Black Panther

4. Love, Simon

5. Incredibles 2

6. Hotel Transylvania 2

7. Deadpool 2

8. Equalizer 2

9. Ant-man and the Wasp

10. Pacific Rim: Uprising

Least Anticipated

1. Barbie

2. Fifty Shades Freed

3. Teen Titans Go! to the Movies

4. Mama Mia! Here We Go Again

5. Overboard

6. Solo: A Star Wars Story

So what do you think? Are there any movies that intrigue or turn you off this year? Thanks for stopping by. I hope we can agree or agree to disagree. Otherwise....




Take care.

Movie Love: December Trailers

The year is nearly over but movies are still coming out next year. Last week a few trailers dropped and I'm going to give my quick thoughts.

Spider-man: Into the Spiderverse

Miles Morales has been done justice in this trailer. This movie looks like it will appeal both to kids and adults alike. You get to see Miles in action as Spiderman and learning to master his abilities. The graphics are good and a few 2D shots thrown in pop in brilliant colour. A scene at the end is definitely a money shot and I will not spoil it for you. Lord and Miller seem to be doing just fine without Star Wars. Colour this girl unsurprised. As long as the movie is as brilliant as this trailer, December 2018 is going to swing in on a high note. An animated must see for me.

Jessica Jones Season 2

(I tried to get the trailer to come up but failed. This is a trailer 

reaction from Grace Randolph. But the trailer is still shown in full).

Yes, this is not a movie but Marvel Netflix shows are still a big event. Despite the last two or three being somewhat lackluster (depends on who you ask). There is a buzz in the air for Jessica Jones Season 2. While I was not wowed by the trailer personally it did the job of showing Jessica will be back. If you enjoyed Season 1 and still want more Jones then March 2018 might seem far away. 

Ready Player One: Official First Trailer

Steven Spielberg is back with what is hoped to be a huge blockbuster. While I can't say this will be for sure. There's no question that there will be some eye-popping visuals when people plug into a virtual world in hopes of winning billions of dollars and ownership of a top program. The added chance of death and corporate espionage helps sweeten the deal. The trailer looks great and the storyline is intriguing. But I must admit with how busy everything is, I wonder if this might have been better off as a series instead of a movie. Only time will tell.

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom Trailer

Jurassic World is coming back with a sequel. While I'm excited to see what's next with this franchise, the story revealed so far seems super basic. This is just a first trailer of course but I hope I was not just told the entire story. Saving dinosaurs sounds cool and all but island hopping is not what I want to sit for over two hours watching. Still, there were some cool scenes and the trailer is great overall. If you just want to enjoy more of this franchise then this trailer should get you real excited. Me? I'm ready but must add I think Universal was smart to move the trailer from November. All the easter eggs and ideas dropped with the trailer Marvel dropped for Avengers 3 would have clobbered JW2. Just my thoughts though and this trailer still did well so I'm looking forward to this movie.

So what do you think of the trailers? Are any of these movies a must see for you in 2018?

Movie Love: Hell or High Water and Timeless Cover Reveal

Source: Wikipedia

Venue: Carib 5

Date seen: August 30, 2016

Time: 5:30 pm

What can I say about this movie? It was excellent. Yes that's the word I'm going to use. Oh my goodness I never expected to see a movie over the summer that would become my number one movie of the year. Yes I also enjoyed The Secret Life of Pets but this movie is perfection on so many levels. The actors were great, story spot on, and...just everything. This movie follows two brothers who are trying to save the family farm with little time to do it. They turn to crime but the way this is done no one is saying they are a one-hundred percent right or wrong for do doing it. This movie does not spent time preaching or telling you how to feel. As the audience you get to choose whether you are following the brothers or those out to catch them and put their asses behind bars. Either way you are in for quite a ride as both the performances and story will keep you riveted to the final stand off on the front porch. Before you think that's a spoiler, trust me it's not. I think this is Chris Pine's best performance yet and I'm intrigued to see how he does in Wonder Woman next year.

So in the end I recommend everybody see this movie. I'm still at a loss for words for just how amazing this movie was. If it were a book I'd give it five out of five, a hug and a cookie. Everyone must see it and if you can't find this indie diamond at your theater, then stream it when it becomes available. Here are two one line summaries I'll give this movie to close off.

1. A non-powered Diablo (lawful) and Joker (released from prison) play brothers in a story where robbery becomes the best way to provide a future for Diablo's family.

Note: Yes I made a Suicide Squad reference. I just couldn't help but imagine it.

2. Two brothers go on a robbery spree in an attempt to gather enough money to save their farm, stick it to the bank who stiffed their dying mother and outrun the law who as an old ranger hot on their tail.

Thanks for stopping by and God bless.

Oh wait...I totally forgot.

Timeless Cover Reveal

Had to go back into edits today to add the cover reveal for Crystal Collier's Timeless novel. So sorry I spaced out on that. Will show it again tomorrow with all the details and pizzazz it truly deserves.

So here's the cover for Timeless and it's a good wait for us fans of the series.

Book Title: TIMELESS (Maiden of Time #3)

Author: Crystal Collier

Genre: YA Paranormal Historical

Release Date: November 1, 2016

TIME IS THE ENEMY

In 1771, Alexia had everything: the man of her dreams, reconciliation with her father, even a child on the way. But she was never meant to stay. It broke her heart, but Alexia heeded destiny and traveled five hundred years back to stop the Soulless from becoming.

In the thirteenth century, the Holy Roman Church has ordered the Knights Templar to exterminate the Passionate, her bloodline. As Alexia fights this new threat—along with an unfathomable evil and her own heart—the Soulless genesis nears. But none of her hard-won battles may matter if she dies in childbirth before completing her mission.

Can Alexia escape her own clock?

Again sincere apologies for forgetting and folks this cover is pretty captivating.

Movie Love: Suicide Squad

Source

Venue: Carib 5

Date: August 23, 2016

This is my third round with the spanking new DCEU that DC is spinning out and Suicide Squad was quite a ride. While I enjoyed the characters, some great scenes and dialogue. Sadly the rest of the movie was very hodge-podge to me. I had fun but not enough to get past the scattered story, horrible editing and pacing, along with other issues. Still Suicide Squad is a movie a lot of people are going to see and I can see why. Like I said the characters are enjoyable (though I had zero love for the villain chosen for Suicide Squad to fight. I can't take some reverberating sore throat spastic belly dancer seriously. Sorry but not no. However the brother was done much better. He looked dangerous and intimidating). The best in my opinion being Deadshot, Harley Quinn, Amanda Waller and El Diablo. The actors playing these characters took them to the next level. El Diablo especially with his limited speaking parts and marginalized role shone like the stars. His metahuman story was well explained and the tragedy in his life came through the screen. Which is why I don't understand how with that those well done scenes, how so many others were just shot like parts were left on the editing floor. 

A character could be doing something and literally in the middle it jumps to something else. Seriously it was like a decent movie was made and someone decided it needed intervention via editing by a garbage disposal. There's no question in my mind that there's a much better movie in this. Studio intervention of this magnitude of sloppiness seriously needs to stop. Hearing all the stories like David Ayer being given only six weeks to write a script or that the movie was re-edited by a company that makes movie trailers...are you for real here? While there can be conjecture, the two issues with the script and movie trailer editors have been reported repeatedly across the board as potentially true. If so it explains quite a bit of the plot issues as well as the choppy editing. If not then something else happened to screw the pacing and flow of this movie. Inception was an amazing movie involving dream sequences and non-linear story telling. It can be done by any standard and I just wish this movie did a better job of it.

Personally I think if this movie had a better plot and no crazy edits, it would have gotten better critic reception. Hell I'm not a Man of Steel fan but critics thought that movie was at least okay to straight up brilliant. However I have to agree with the critics on the fact that this film had too many hands in the pot and ended up a hot mess. One that can be thoroughly enjoyed but a hot mess all the same. Now I'm a lover of both Marvel and DC, the latter I have known extremely intimately from a child. 

Still I do get very annoyed when I hear people saying you'd like this movie more if you read the comics. Let me be clear, a movie should be able to stand on it's own. Also mainstream movie goers are not avid comic book readers and make up the majority of audiences. I review books on this blog and have profound respect for those who are willing to take a piece of art apart no matter the consequences from fans and the like. However that does not mean I agree with everything critics say. There are movies I love that a lot of top critics would find to be horrible. Yet sadly I have to say Suicide Squad is yet another film by the DC that falls short for me. Wishing them all the best though. There's still success in the DCEU and I hope that it expands along with the quality of the work. Of course this is my opinion and those paying full price or multiple purchases for this movie would likely want DC to continue on this path.

At the end of the day I'd recommend Suicide Squad to either those who want to see it or movie goers that just want a popcorn movie to watch that has more depth than the Transformers movies. Other than that it's a roll of the dice. 

P.S. : DC, you did a great job displaying Deadshot as a black character without going into black stereotypes. Why did you do the opposite with Killer Croc? Maybe I could have forgiven some of the stuff as characterization but then you have him demanding for BET when everyone else is asking for time with their child to an espresso machine. Just stop it Hollywood. It's not funny and I know of a number of reviewers who were pissed off about it. One to the point of cursing. Just cut it out.The scene where he stated he was beautiful and fight scenes were good. Just not the over hood-ization of the character. Show not tell was definitely not followed here.

Movie Love: The Jungle Book (Top Five)

Welcome to another edition of Movie Love. Today we will be doing things a bit differently. Instead of the usual spiel I will be doing a top five edition. I went to see The Jungle Book on Tuesday and had a wonderful time in the world Disney created for this big screen live adaptation. As you know I am both a book and movie lover and in Jamaica I'm happy to say that it's a treat to go out and see the latest batch of film releases in a theater with fellow movie goers.

Venue: Carib 5

So on with the show as they say.


Top

        Five

                Reasons

                              To
                              
                                   See

Source

1. With an in dept story line and computer animation that boggles the mind. Why not go see it. Trust me this one of the few movies that uses every bit of it's 3D price tag wisely. Plus for all those who had doubts that Disney's latest slate of live action of animated tales could anything but bubbly princess or other female led movies, be aware that it can. This movie gives me confidence that a live action Lion King can be done well and trust me, that says a lot.

2. Shere Kahn. Yes you need to go see a computer animated tiger. But he is so much more than that. This menacing villain doesn't even need to speak to be menacing. Just the very presence of this danger to Mowgli's life sends ripples of fear throughout the jungle and might just give you a chill up your spine in that dark movie theater.

3. The computer animation. Trust me whether or not you are a huge fan of computer graphics the story intertwined with this on screen artistry needs to be seen. The very fact that talking animals in a live action can be so amazing and realistic in a dark family movie in 2016 speaks volumes. Want to see something half as chilling as Shere Kahn? Just follow the monkeys.

4. Mowgli and the actor who plays him. This little boy has a bright acting future ahead of him if he decides to move forward. Who can believe that he even did some of his own stunts! 

5. Everything! This movie has received critical acclaim for a reason. The action, visuals, dialogue. Nothing is wasted and it is so amazing that I would recommend this to a blind person. Yeah I said I would recommend this highly to the blind. Best audio they'll hear on the big screen. Hopefully what I just said was not prejudiced. I do know that there are theaters that cater to the blind and even without some do go to movie theaters anyhow.

Thanks for stopping by and have you seen The Jungle Book (2016 film) yet? Has this post convinced you give it a shot? Have a great weekend.

Movie Love: My Movie Plans

With no need for explaining my Movie Love segment involves the love of movies. Mostly I review and share my thoughts on a theatrically released movie. Over time my reviews have become a bit more colorful and fun though I'll still have that formal amateur critic side ready to drop some serious thoughts. For example my How To Train Your Dragon 2 review took a serious look at how the beauty of a movie can hide some too easily missed flaws. While my recent Deadpool review mostly focused on the fun insanity of the movie over a detailed breakdown of the sum of it's parts.

Now I plan to continue to diversify this segment by including movies that I have seen outside the theater including a Crouching Tiger: Sword of Destiny review next week which will combine both my serious and fun reviewing style. I have really come to love this segment as have my readers who leave positive comments showing how much they have enjoyed some aspect of these posts.

Today there won't be a review but a listing of movies I plan to see in theaters. As you know best laid plans don't always work out. Like me missing Zootopia Tuesday but thankfully a last minute addition on Friday by one of the local theaters has allowed me to see it without having to pay an arm and a leg for 3D regular price. With my budget 3D is especially a half-off event with rare exceptions and I do that once a week since the only other weekly half off is in the night and I already had an experience once of having my father picking me up last year because the movie started late and by the time it was finished the buses had stopped running at their 11:00 pm time. Never again. Only do night time on weekends when there is a guaranteed ride available to me. Besides I like afternoon and early evening showings over nighttime anyway.

So on with my Movie Plans/Wishlist

March

Zootopia - Seeing this today and so pumped! Feeling well so no delays so far.

The Divergent Series: Allegiant - Already know this might not be so great but I want to drop a little support for the movie franchised I abandoned by not going to see Insurgent. No regrets there.

Batmam v Superman: Dawn of Justice - (Warning. Below is a bit of a rant, no it's a rant)

At first I was planning to see this full priced. Sadly a lot of negative talk (mainly from so called fans whining at everything even slightly questioning the movie and vomiting it all over the internet) and a tweet from someone involved with EW magazine (which I found offensive) has turned me off doing so. Might sound a bit petty but I'm very particular with my cash and when someone states that you should not bother go see this movie if you did not like Man of Steel and also suggests that means 'said people' also don't like dark gritty films, that's a slap in the face for me.

 Sometimes a movie just isn't that good and while I respect the fact that there are people who love MOS, I'm one of those who didn't. Not because it was dark but because I felt there was no story, the supporting cast were better actors than the main cast and I just was not into it.

But I love gritty movies with a passion and with superhero movies The Dark Knight is right up there. All this smart aleck has done is made people like me wary of spending full price opening night on a movie that is a huge event. One I will not be seeing opening night but on a half off one instead. Nice job twitter idiot.

And no I don't care who thinks I'm mean. When you decide to tweet an early mini review of a movie you need to pick your words carefully and suggesting someone not liking a movie is reason not to see another one with little explaining is just poor thinking. Especially with Batman vs, Superman not being an origin superhero story. Even Snyder said you can watch it without watching MOS. I still believe it will be really good but I'm too jaded now to put up full dollar.

April

Miracles from Heaven - I have not seen a Christian movie in theaters since.... Yeah I love the story line and as long as nothing convinces me this movie is horrible I'm lining up to catch it when it reaches Jamaica.

The Jungle Book - I had to be a convinced a bit but I now want to see this latest version

Hardcore Henry - A huge MAYBE.

The Huntsman: Winter's War: I have to see this!!!!!

Keanu: Oh I really want to see this movie. The trailer was a combination of laughter, insanity and cuteness.

May

Captain America: Civil War: Opening NIGHT!!!!!!

Angry Birds: I got converted thanks to a cute Easter Trailer and a twitter happy Josh Cohen. :)

X-Men: Apocalypse: I must admit a lot of the initial excitement is DOA for me but I'm still somewhat excited to see this movie. Big x-men fan and I'm not missing this one.

Alice: Through the Looking Glass: Actually looking forward to this a bit more than X-men. *Gasp*

September

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children: Saw the trailer Tuesday and I'm hooked!!! All the way over in September but I don't care. Will get the books in paperback some point in April.

There are more of course but that's it for now. Thanks for stopping by and I'll do my blog reading and responding after returning from my afternoon watching of Zootopia. :)

Enjoy your weekend everyone and remember a certain reveal come Monday.

Movie Love: Deadpool

Deadpool. Guys I must say that after seeing this movie last week I'm still on a bit of a high at how great it was. Mind you, it's no Dark Knight, but it was never made to be that. This movie was a hard sell kick ass comedy with gore and romance all wrapped up in a Superhero sandwich that Deadpool shoved down his pants without a moments hesitation. Yes, that's what Deadpool is and that's why a lot of people who have seen it are going wild over it's very existence. Now I'm not some Deadpool expert or even at heart a mega Deadpool fan. Well after I saw the movie I'm definitely a huge fan now but before a big part of what got me into Deadpool was what I found out about him online. Before around 2014 or so I didn't really have an idea of who the hell Deadpool was. Deadpool? Is that a horror movie? Is the pool killing people? Are people being murdered and their bodies placed in a pool by the killer as a calling card? In short just a few years ago, about this hero, I knew jack.

Please Note: From this point there will be SPOILERS. So yeah if you don't want even the slightest spoiler getting to you.... You have been warned. Now on with our regularly scheduled program.

From out the gate the movie had an amazing start. Getting right into the action from the get was the best choice. You knew from early on that this aint no Superman type of hero and he and Batman would have words on his violence level. Captain America needs to be after Winter Soldier at least to be able to get past a trailer. Sorry but we all know that some traditional people can't handle gore. Thankfully I am not one of them. Though I had some issues early on with Starz' Spartacus. There are some limits guys. I do have some. But Spartacus kind of killed a few. YEAH!

Plus this movie went so far into breaking the fourth wall that even the names scrolling at the bottom for the actors were not names. Will not say what here but if you want some quick cliff notes on the types of characters in this movie. Do not glaze over reading those nice words that pop on screen. They're hilarious. Also I loved that a number of the cool Easter Eggs in this movie were easy to catch and enjoy. Now I aint no Easter Egg hunter (sorry but I'm busy enjoying the movie), especially with movies like Age of Ultron (which was really good but overcrowded. I didn't have time to search for no damn easter eggs, I needed to keep up) and Captain America: Winter Soldier (ended up seeing this when it came out on Starz - back when our cable had it before it was removed and we found out they stole it- and felt like a complete asshat for missing this thrill fest in theaters. Like I'm searching for Easter Eggs with all this amazing hero action on screen. Forget being polite, get the fuck out of here).

Also this movie was definitely meant to be Rated R. Even I as a Deadpool newbie was excited about that prospect and boy was I not disappointed. Though I'm not so excited that now Fox wants to make a R rated Wolverine. WTH? While I agree that Wolverine is a violent character, Fox has pushed him on screen as PG-13 and got a lot of kids in the mix. Giving them the middle finger because Deadpool did well is not cool. I'm saying this at age 31 with no damn kids in sight. I can't imagine the seething parents with Wolverine kid fans. Be safe Fox, be very safe. Plus in Jamaica kids can't see adult movies even with a parent. Not kidding, it's taken very seriously in my country what kids watch at the movies. Moving on. From the gore, to the lewd talk and even the sex scenes. Everything was done in such a masterful way that no matter how vulgar it got this movie is a work of art to anyone wanting to see how a gorey movie can also be an amazing one with great writing.

As a writer I must say I really appreciated the dialogue as well how well the movie scenes were done. This movie left nothing to chance and every single scene has a point. Clearly both the screen writers and director really went in ready to make a lean mean fighting machine of a movie. There was no lagging and again vulgarity even when present was used effectively to move the story along. Sure violence galore is not necessary for a movie to be good. But it was essential for Deadpool. Is this movie perfect. No. But is it way better than a lot of others out there? Hell yes and with a budget under 60 million a lot of other movies with much bigger budgets that were done like crap should be ashamed. Looking at you Gods of Egypt. From the reviews it seems pretty clear that even without white washing you would still be pretty terrible. No, I have not seen it and yes I'll say from reviews alone that the movie was terrible. Same goes from Norm of the North (guys Chris Stuckman on Youtube said even kids were groaning in the theater. Kids!). Not something I'll do often but really bad movies deserve to be called out on. People pay to see these things, give our eyeballs some respect.

The villains and heroes in this movie were both great. Ajax got called out for having a detergent name. Thank goodness because I thought...bleach? That's what your evil name is? But yeah he's still a bad ass a-hole like he's meant to be. Angel Dust aint no angel and this lady villain puts a number of movie rendered female heroes to shame. Elektra you have been dead to me since that movie. Done. No the upcoming Netflix version does not raise my confidence but I will say the actress seems to be doing well in that role and does justice in the trailer. That's a huge give from me and I enjoyed the Daredevil movie. Yeah, I did and saw it in theaters. Had enough sense to see Elektra movie at home and it was still a waste of my damn time. Kid you not all I remember literally from my brain is a grainy thought of how terrible the CGI was and my brain just saying it sucked. Can't even remember the plot (was there one?) or anything specific. Yup, my imagination drunk some Ajax to wash that out. Fell in love with Netflix Daredevil at episode nine. Okay now I'm way off track.

Negasonic Teenage Warhead is the female superhero of this movie and another bad ass who will not disappoint those looking for tough non-traditional heroines. Folks this girl aint no Barbie and can kick Angel Dust's ass even when Colossus is having a hard time doing so. Also she has that goth like teen attitude that just rocks on screen. Not the poser kind, that one sucks. Hell even Vanessa Carlysle who plays Wade's girlfriend in this movie is bad ass and an awesome character to boot. Not the background or cookie cutter girl she goes to the mat for both her man as well as herself. Colossus, oh man what can I say. Love him but he's like a Marvel character lost in a rated R film. In a good way though. He just wants to get Deadpool to turn from killer vigilante to good guy and really does make an effort to do so even when he has to get heavy handed. The guy even tries to be light handed on Angel Dust. Angel Dust folks. If you watched the trailer you saw how bad an idea that this. That chick don't play and even after he was super nice to her in a certain scene and she thanked him...you guessed it, she hit him again. I will laugh my ass off if these two somehow hook up in a future movie or something. They are just so wrong for each other it's perfect. Wade Wilson as anti-hero/vigilante Deadpool spits in the eye of Marvel anti-hero Loki (who I love but damn Deadpool goes all out). He makes it clear he's not a good guy from before he even gets experimented on and transformed into what will be Deadpool. Killing is not an issue for him though he's not exactly shooting kids on a playground. Hey we have to give even anti-heroes limits. Loki will kill an innocent old man, Deadpool won't. Plus smaller characters like Wade's best friend Weasel and his roommate Blind Al shined in their parts. Even taxi driver Dopinder was in the mix. Who makes taxi drivers memorable in superhero movies? They're usually like the phone booth Clark Kent used to change in back in the back. Who cares, I want to see Superman! But no, the movie Deadpool wants you to remember just about everybody and heaven help us, you do. In the most positive kick ass way possible.

The only negative I can say. *Gasp* No, no, the movie is amazing and breaks the fourth wall and all that glorious sense of movie glory. But I have to say it kind of tricked those looking for a pansexual superhero. I'll go as far as saying it baited some people from the LGBT community, hell even the LGBTQA who were looking for a non-heterosexual superhero. No that was not what I was looking for but I did kind of want to see where that claim was going. So while it didn't take away from the wonderful movie that Deadpool is, I think promoters and actors need to be more careful about what they promise. A Wolverine fondling joke does not count. It was hilarious but no. So I'm all good with Deadpool, I had to put this out there because I have read where some movie goers were upset.

In closing Deadpool is an awesome movie I would recommend to anyone who can enjoy superhero movies and take watching some pretty gruesome stuff. Not for the kiddies but that's also up to the parent's discretion. Will not spoil the ending for anyone but this movie is definitely a must see. I loved it, others who have seen it loved it. Pretty sure there's a guy under a bridge somewhere (if anyone immediately got mad or thought I was dissing the homeless just go sit your overly PC ass down. Lots of non-homeless people can be found under bridges. Including lost drunkards) who hated it but who cares about that guy?

So I highly recommend it and thanks for reading Movie Love. See you Wednesday.

IWSG and Movie Love: How to Train Your Dragon 2 and Lessons Learned

I am excited to be apart of IWSG created by Alex Cavanaugh to bring insecure writers and co. together. Now I'm doing both IWSG and Movie Love today and hope you enjoy my post and maybe learn a little something. In a fun way of course.

Movie Love

On Saturday August 2, 2014 I went to see How To Train Your Dragon 2 at Palace Cineplex. It was a 2:40pm showing and I was pumped after missing seeing it in July because of various mishaps. But it returned to Jamaica for the early August weekend and no way was I missing it. Dreamworks comes right after Pixar (and Disney too after leaving the animated movie slump behind) in my book when it comes to amazing animated movies and I was determined to watch it this time. The first movie was amazing and I had great expectations for this one. Hiccup has grown into a smart and yes handsome young man. Strong in stature but still awkward at heart he and Astrid are closer than ever and the rest of the dragon riders from the first movie have matured as well. I truly believe the first fifty minutes of the movie was perfect. Both in story and visuals. 3D only helped enhance what was already there. But this movie like the first had a dark undertone. While on Berk dragons are now plentiful and allies, elsewhere there are still considered dangerous beasts. Various topics are covered in this movie including animal trapping and underlying slavery with main villain Drago Blood Fist willing to brand and terrify others to do his dirty work in creating a dragon army. Some of the best moments include the reuniting of Hiccup with his mother who now lives a new life but never forgot the boy she left behind. Touching and visually stunning this part you will be taken in. This movie has loads of heart and twists and turns that will keep you watching until the end. Sadly there is a falling point. After the first fifty minutes or so the rest of the movie is rushed to it's conclusion that could have been better brought about with an additional fifteen to twenty minutes more added to the movie time. This doesn't make this movie not great but I do believe the first one did a better job in pacing and character building. A must see for fans of the franchise and a perfect movie for newbies.

IWSG

While I still am in computer limbo I do my best to pop in. Nothing short of a heart attack could make me miss IWSG in August. Anyway I want to discuss lessons I have learned from watching How to Train Your Dragon 2.

1. Pacing is essential. I truly believe that if another twenty minutes were added or some edits were done to parts in the first fifty minutes to add time to later sections that this movie would be perfect. While nearly the first hour was practically flawless the last half hour/forty minutes or so was rushed including the big tragedy which went by so fast that if you blinked you would miss it. Yes it was sudden but damn there's sudden and sudden.

2. Drago was poorly characterized and that took away from his role. While I think a lot of times story is king sometimes character is a close second or trumps it. Drago had so much potential but he was one of the least developed villains I have seen in a while. Especially in a quality movie. I truly believe he should have gotten at least two flashbacks of his own. One showing how he got his cloak and another of his childhood. I truly believe that and a few other changes would have helped. In the end he was still a striking villain but more like a match going against the wind instead of the inferno he should have been.

3. Never be so seduced by the greatness of your story that you miss the faults. DreamWorks has a positive streak when it comes to movies but I think part of the reason Pixar often beats them in the animated movie business because Pixar will go to greater lengths to ensure their movies are top notch. Pixar isn't releasing a movie this year because they don't feel that they're ready. DreamWorks Animation however are determined to keep up a three movie a year momentum and I'm not sure if that is necessarily a good thing. More effort on this movie might have caught the few bugs and while this is still an amazing movie. It's one I wouldn't see twice because the bad points disappoint me a lot and I would still watch it's prequel a hundred times even now.

4. Do your best. No matter my criticism I still believe DreamWorks Animated went all out to create an amazing movie. I have no regrets seeing it and while I learned not to seduced into missing faults I saw a lot of beauty in this film in both the visual and story territory. This movie was amazing and I learned that doing your best is the greatest reward no matter how great or badly you end up.

So what have you guys learned? I'm off to go see Lucy and hope to get thoughts from you all when this post goes live Wednesday (Yup I wrote this Tuesday, told I'll be ready no matter what).

Movie Love: Oblivion and Iron Man 3 and Express Yourself Meme: Movies

This will be both Movie Love and Express Yourself Meme Post. Enjoy.

Express Yourself Meme: What are the last two movies you saw. Below are the last two movies I saw at the Cinema.

Tuesday May 7, 2013 I went to see Oblivion at Carib 5. I am a fan of Tom Cruise but over the last few years his movies have received lackluster reviews or weren't the kind of movies I'd go to the cinema to see. Then came this movie, I admit I waited for some reviews to come in first but I was taken in by both the cinematography and heart of this movie. Then I saw it and both came together so perfectly I almost melted. This movie has made millions and beat it's budget and some critic's odds that a Tom Cruise movie wouldn't carry in the big bucks. Suck it! Oblivion takes place in a futuristic world where Earth has been ravaged by an alien invasion. Most humans are now off-planet and the few still around like Jack Harper work as a drone repair man. This is before he saves a woman when the drones kill innocent civilians and discovers a conspiracy that turns his world upside down. I saw this movie the day before it left Jamaica and I must say to get the full experience you need to see it on the big screen. The action grips you, the scenery catches your eye and keeps it there, the science fiction is awesome, the twists whether you see them coming or not are sometimes gut wrenching (especially when you watch Jack go through them) and over all it's a wonderful film that exceeded a lot of expectations. Also Morgan Freeman played his role very well but telling you about it will give too much away. If you can still see it in theaters, go now.

After finding out Stark Trek Into Darkness was gone in May (after coming out in May, seriously Jamaica what is the matter with you!) I decided to let my next movie be Iron Man 3 instead and went to see it Sunday June 2, 2013 (because it's Iron Man 3, it might still be kicking at the end of July). I was really happy for two reasons, #2 I was seeing this movie and #1 I had a ride to and from the cinema so I didn't have to take the bus. When I arrived I had some (alot) of annoyance with one guy taking more than ten minutes (literally) to get through his ticket ordering. Worst part, he wasn't even seeing a movie currently showing, he left! Thanks you %*@!  But when I got inside I was able to find myself a seat and waited to put on my 3D glasses. My thoughts on the movie? It rocked! This is the first Iron Man movie I've seen at the Cinema and I will see all others at the cinema. I think one of the big elements of this Iron Man is karma in that a lot of the problems Tony Stark experiences both as Iron Man and is rich genius self are as a result of stupid self centered decisions that he made years ago. Like humiliating a dewy eyed scientist and ignoring Pepper to tinker with his machines like a crazy person. Add panic attacks and a boatload of shit hitting the fan and you have a wonderful movie that will not be the last movie in this franchise. Even the director Shane Black believes there'll be a fourth or even a fifth movie. Guess what? So do I.

Bloghop Win News

Taking part in the Aberration Bloghop last Thursday was a lot of fun. I enjoyed writing about my list of morally ambivalent characters and was pleased that my own character was among those readers liked being informed about. It was also fun checking out other bloggers list and finding characters that I've never heard of and experience new levels of surprise and horror. Lisa truly outdid herself and definitely got her new book some big time attention. There were also prizes and I found out on Monday that I had won a signed paperback copy of Aberration by Lisa Regan. I responded immediately and sent my address. Got a thank you email from Lisa and was told I was the only one who had responded so far. Thanks Lisa.

Movie Love: Hansel and Gretel Witch Hunters

I watched Hansel and Gretel Witch Hunters last Saturday at Palace Cineplex. And I must say it was worth every 3D penny. This take in a beloved fairytale was fun, action packed, hilarious and even moving at times. If you want a movie that will keep you watching til the end and enjoy faiytale retellings with twists and witches. This movie might just be for you. While some critics panned it online, I noticed most audiences loved it and that's why I went to see it last week. No regrets.

What will I see next? Well Warm Bodies still tops my list. Have a great weekend everyone.