The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1

Release Date: Nov 21, 2014 
Runtime: 2 hr. 3 min. 
Director: Francis Lawrence 
Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth, Josh Hutcherson, Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Sam Claflin, Donald Sutherland, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Stanley Tucci, Natalie Dormer, Jeffrey Wright.

She's been hunted, demoralized, and enveloped by fire, but Katniss Everdeen's greatest challenges have yet to be materialized. In part 1 of the finale in "The Hunger Games" series, propaganda takes the forefront in the fight against the Capitol. Touting the 'Mockingjay' symbol as the leader of hope, Jennifer Lawrence continues her role as the catalyst of the films. It's through her perseverance the story cultivates the most interest, though not enough to warrant a 2-part summation. What starts out as a cry for urgent revolution leisurely meanders into 2 hrs of idle preparation. This is mostly in part due to the languid source material – the third book, personally, being the weakest in the dystopian trilogy. As it's the slow buildup before the imminent warfare, there's not much to be seen in active battle. But if there's one thing that Francis Lawrence adds as director, it's the multiple facets other than just Katniss' point of view. By integrating scenes not previously actualized in the book, the film brings tension in otherwise placid of moments. Jennifer Lawrence, conjointly, delivers an arresting performance, baring her soul in the aftermath of the games and fall of District 12. Normally levelheaded, she takes a turn for the worst, as she attempts to regain her sanity and adapt to new bearings. Josh Hutcherson similarly makes use of his time, eliciting a raw facade never seen before. Albeit, the film no longer focuses solely on their wayward romance, they still hold a prominence when it comes to engaging the viewer. As "Part 1" comes to a close leaving much to be desired, there's at least solace in knowing the general premise of "Part 2." Given that all of the games has led to this moment, expectations are ripe for a blazing showdown.

Rating: 3 stars

22 Jump Street

Release Date: Jun 13, 2014
Runtime: 1 hr. 49 min. 
Director: Christopher Miller, Phil Lord 
Cast: Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Ice Cube, Peter Stormare, Nick Offerman.

If it ain't broke, don't fix it...or just do it again. That's the mentality, at least, in "22 Jump Street," the obligatory sequel to the big screen adaptation. Following the events of the first film, Jenko and Schmidt are back, this time infiltrating perps with a higher education. But if you've seen it before, you'll see it again, as "22" is not much different than being "21." Once again their friendship gets tested in more ways than none, with popularity and insecurities hanging feebly in the balance. And the plot, furthermore, is identically transcribed – same objective, same results in a slightly varied setting. That's not to say the sequel lacks in total creativity, as tongue-in-cheek humor still runs deftly through its veins. Nick Offerman returns effectively to reinstate the rules, acknowledging the obvious follow-up and bigger budget production. It's a clever gibe, if anything, to staving off a replica but not enough to even out the punchlines. Fortunately, Tatum and Hill are as solid as ever in their tag-team efforts of comic delivery. Their repartee is essential to manning this vehicle, which is further boosted by Ice Cube's rampant swearing. At any rate, though it may not be Lord and Miller's most original work to date, "22 Jump Street" gets kudos for somewhat staying consistent. If the hilarious end credits are a signifier of anything, there are limitless routes still left to explore.

Rating: 3 stars

The Amazing Spider-Man 2

Release Date: May 02, 2014 
Runtime: 2 hr. 21 min. 
Director: Marc Webb 
Cast: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Jamie Foxx, Dane DeHaan, Chris Cooper.

Dating back to its inception, romance has always played a key factor in the "Spider-Man" saga, more forthcoming and fundamental than other comic book movies. And with the recent reboot, it has only grown more prominent thanks to the chemistry of its stars, so naturally conveyed by Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone. As every villain needs a hero, every hero needs a love interest – and for Garfield's Peter Parker, that love is Gwen Stacy. In the sequel to "The Amazing Spider-Man," their relationship takes greater precedence, overshadowing any adversaries despite there being plenty. The film's constant struggle of love versus law is a battle of its own amidst the muddled story line. Combining romance, friendship, father issues, and an unsolicited vendetta, it's a barrage to conceive in the given amount of time. Jamie Foxx as Electro seems marginally wasted, as he's hastily introduced with a half-baked motive. The same can be said for the sudden return of Harry Osborn, played by Dane DeHaan who has, on the upside, been persistently surprising. It's enough to keep the web-slinger busy, let alone cultivate a continuity, for the impending spin-offs which are to include the "Sinister Six." Regardless, the sequel is visually immersing in all its vibrancy; the Spidey-view as equally exhilarating, if not, better than before. This especially pays off during Spider-Man's confrontation with Electro, as they duke it out with style in an acrobatic frenzy. In the end, a decisive moment is worth the admission ticket alone, as it differentiates for the first time from Sam Raimi's iterations. Seeing as Garfield is locked in for at least one more sequel, it's safe to say his wise-cracking days are yet to be behind him.

Rating: 3 stars

Bad Words

Release Date: Mar 28, 2014 
Runtime: 1 hr. 29 min. 
Director: Jason Bateman 
Cast: Jason Bateman, Kathryn Hahn, Allison Janney, Ben Falcone, Rachael Harris.

If you look up the word "a**hole," chances are you'd see a photo of Guy Trilby, Bateman's latest incarnation of brash cynicism. Armed with an acid tongue and zero inhibition, his directorial debut takes front and center stage...at a national spelling bee. We've seen Bateman as the nice guy, as well as the bad guy, but where he excels best is predominantly the latter. Dropping more profanities than should ever be in the presence of a child, it's his apathetic view that brings out the hilarity. Appearing as a 40-year-old competitor, the film has no actual beginning, heading straight into the first event at the outcry of parents. Subsequently, any sort of character backstory is left astray, leaving only a mild curiosity as to Trilby's personal motives. As he pummels and crushes the hearts of little children, it's hard to find sympathy in his egomaniacal conquest. But if there's anyone that can break through that cold exterior, it's Chaitanya Chopra played by Rohan Chand. Together, they develop the most unlikely of friendships, sharing a playful dynamic that establishes the film. Chand's ability to shrug off the ridicule, and even match the wits of Bateman, is more than enough to keep the rapport entertaining. While "Bad Words" may not be the boldest of comedies, it's a step in the right direction for the newbie director.

Rating: 3 stars

Robocop

Release Date: Feb 12, 2014 
Runtime: 1 hr. 48 min. 
Director: José Padilha 
Cast: Joel Kinnaman, Gary Oldman, Samuel L. Jackson, Abbie Cornish, Michael Keaton, Jackie Earle Haley, Jay Baruchel, Marianne Jean-Baptiste.

The 1980's were an emblem of cutting-edge science fiction – with films such as "The Terminator," "Blade Runner," and of course the mentionable "Robocop." And with all of our modern day updates it was only a matter of time, before another resurrection occurred for a new generation. Enter 2014's next line of defense: armed, locked and loaded...and painted in black. Joel Kinnaman steps into the role made famous by Peter Weller – part human, part machine as the purveyor of justice. As with all bold remakes, comparisons are inescapable, but a willingness to succeed is a progress in itself. José Padilha attempts to do so with his contemporary interpretation: a sleeker, more mobile military machine. Far agile and futuristic than its bulky predecessor, it adheres to Murphy better as a bodily entity. Abundant time is spent on setting up this premise, as he transitions from one physical outlet to another. But as a result, it takes time away from the original objective of the film, carrying out the law instead of confined to a laboratory. With that, it becomes an origin story by default, but a mundane and lethargic one at that. The editing is a drawback to the efficacy of the film, composing of awkward transitions and shaky camera movements. It doesn't help that Kinnaman is stoic as a human as he is a robot, lacking the emotional justification of Murphy/Robocop's actions. Thankfully Oldman and Keaton bring a nice balance to the mix, each with opposing views on morality. And then there's Samuel L. Jackson with his incessant yelling, always tried and true. Though this "Robocop" will ever be deemed a remake, at the end of the day it's about the individuality of the film and its ability to withstand the present. Whether it's new and improved will be anybody's call.

Rating: 3 stars

The Wolverine

Release Date: Jul 26, 2013
Runtime: 2 hr. 6 min. 
Director: James Mangold 
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Will Yun Lee, Hiroyuki Sanada, Brian Tee, Famke Janssen.

"X-Men" introduced us to the world of mutants: individuals with remarkable powers and secret abilities. But out of the throng, one superseded the rest, resulting in two spin-offs with altering outcomes. Whereas "Origins" failed in honing the character, Mangold succeeds in giving it new life. What's always been fascinating about Wolverine is the complexity of his nature – driven by rage but tormented by pain – in his road to self-redemption. And while prior films have scratched the surface of his past, it's the latest that digs deep into his empathy, separating animal from human. Following the events of "Last Stand," Wolverine is now a nomad in the wilderness, filled with remorse over the death of Jean Grey. But where this familiarity begins, it quickly diminishes, as the film is unlike other "X-Men" adventures before it. Set mostly in Japan, it's a noticeable departure, with yakuza and ninjas in place of mutants. The only consistencies remain with the claws and the omniscient presence of Famke Janssen. Though staying close to the comic book series, "Wolverine" is more of an action flick than not – with battles on top of bullet trains and samurai blades. Given that Jackman has reprised this role several times before, it's a much-needed change of scenery for the ever-growing franchise. Where the film mainly stumbles is in its confined second half, throwing love story and hero into one predictable ending. Stuck with a bland villain (Viper) and weak supporting characters, Wolverine is left to fend for himself in his battle for immortality. Nonetheless, the film is a vast improvement if only for the Easter egg. The future looks to be bright in "Days of Future Past."

Rating: 3 stars

Monsters University

Release Date: Jun 21, 2013  
Runtime: 1 hr. 42 min. 
Director: Dan Scanlon 
Cast: Billy Crystal, John Goodman, Steve Buscemi, Helen Mirren, Peter Sohn.

In 2001, Pixar revealed what goes bump in the night, with the ingenious narrative titled "Monsters, Inc." Remarkably inspired and heart-touchingly funny, it told the story of two monster employees who scared for a living. Now 12 years later, our favorite 'Scarers' are back, this time living the glory days at their beloved alma mater. In this dubbed prequel, we follow Mike and Sully as inexperienced freshmen, as they tackle the intensive challenges of collegiate life. But despite the mature context of "Monsters University," it's determinedly more kid-friendly than customarily expected. Missing the adult wit that's made Pixar so enjoyable, the plot is simple at best and effectively unimaginative. It goes without saying the animation is superb, enlivened with color and enriched with detail. Each monster is unique in his or her own way, as we get introduced to new characters while fraternizing with old ones. But one face you won't see is the adorable little Boo, who doesn't appear until after Mike and Sully become MU alumns. It's a small sacrifice for the sake of chronology, but one that's sorely missed for sentimental value. As the story spends a great deal of focus on imitating Greek life, it feels less like an animated feature than it does a college tutorial. But faith has not been lost on the animation powerhouse, as Pixar's planned sequels seem especially promising. "Finding Dory" is already set for a 2015 splash, while "The Incredibles" is still hopeful for a heroic return.

Rating: 3 stars

Flight

Release Date: Nov 02, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr. 18 min. 

Director: Robert Zemeckis 

Cast: Denzel Washington, Don Cheadle, Kelly Reilly, John Goodman, Bruce Greenwood.

He's traveled back to the future, and taught us life is like a box of chocolates. Now Robert Zemeckis takes to the skies in his latest venture, "Flight." Denzel Washington stars as Whip Whitaker, an airline captain with a taste for bad habits. Boozed up and high on cocaine, he maneuvers a miraculous landing that is deemed ergonomically impossible. But what starts out as a heroic tale of death-defying feats, quickly down-spirals into a dissection of behavioral destruction, providing a hard look into substance abuse and all that it entails. It's a grim subject matter that only gets grimmer over the course of the two-hour film, and Zemeckis thoroughly divulges the details. For the most part, the story is far from uplifting as Whitaker is hardly likeable in his states of misdeeds and intoxication. Just when you think his life will turn around, he quarrels with temptations that hinder any development. Washington, in a semi-new kind of role, gives a dynamic performance as the alcohol-abusing pilot. Ambling between the lines of good and bad, he makes his actions believable to the point of diluted sympathy. On his side are Don Cheadle and Bruce Greenwood who both deliver favorable support as his attorney and former colleague, respectively. Their plead for intervention adds a heightened reality, whereas the inclusion of Kelly Reilly as druggie-turned-girlfriend feels forced by convention. Apart from the nail-biting opening with the aforementioned landing, the rest of the film moves rather languidly much like its inebriated core. A good character study, be that as it may, "Flight" is in no way a thrilling ride.

Rating: 3 stars

Dredd

Release Date: Sep 21, 2012  
Runtime: 1 hr. 36 min. 
Director: Pete Travis 
Cast: Karl Urban, Olivia Thirlby, Lena Headey, Wood Harris, Langley Kirkwood.

In a city overrun with criminals and devastation, there are those who willingly serve and protect. They are the Judges: enforcers and executioners in one; beaten by few and yielded by many. But one man alone is feared above the rest, and he goes fittingly by the name of Dredd. Based on the popular British comic "2000 AD," and the only other adaptation since 1995, "Dredd" is a resurgence from the dilapidated past. To call it a superior reboot is nothing short of gratuitous, as the bar was never set that high in the first place. And for that reason it seems to work to its advantage, erasing old remnants that were unarguably beyond salvaging. Karl Urban's Dredd is a progression in itself, not a superhero per se, but a hero nonetheless. And the obscurity of his identity is what keeps him enigmatic, unlike Stallone who purposely abandoned his helmet, and deviated away from the comic strip altogether. Through Urban's raspy voice and down-turned expression, it's more than enough to deduce his purpose and demeanor as a disciplinarian of the law. The same can't be attributed to Lena Headey's Ma-Ma, who's the so-called mastermind behind the corruption. Her insipid manner is painstakingly boring to watch, equivalent to the slow-motion captures that stay on a few frames too long. Notwithstanding the fact that the plot-driven drug is called "Slo-Mo," the movie could've done with less bullet time and more actual bullets, which there are plenty of by the way. Call it coincidence, or just a matter of poor timing, "Dredd" resembles the previously released "The Raid" in which the objective lies solely in overtaking a high-rise building to apprehend a druglord. Both incredibly violent and gore-tastic to say the least, "Dredd" draws the shorter end of the straw when it comes to originality, even if it originated first. Luckily for him, there will always be scum to incarcerate, though when it'll happen next is still up for debate.

Rating: 3 stars

The Expendables 2

Release Date: Aug 17, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 43 min. 

Director: Simon West 

Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Terry Crews, Randy Couture, Dolph Lundgren, Liam Hemsworth, Jet Li, Chuck Norris, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Bruce Willis, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Yu Nan, Scott Adkins.

There was a time when action heroes were all brawn and force. When superpowers were trivial, and ammunition was the method of choice. These were the glory days of the 80's and 90's, marking the star beginnings of some actors, and the contingent end for others. Then came "The Expendables," a collection of the biggest, toughest combatants around, united for one purpose only: death and destruction. Combining the likes of Stallone, Willis, and Schwarzenegger, it was no easy task, however momentary at that. But how does one top such greatness with something even greater? Add Chuck Norris, of course. Stallone and the boys are back for part two of their mercenary games. When one of their own gets taken unexpectedly, it's up to the gang to exact revenge against a lethal new adversary, played by none other than Jean-Claude Van Damme. In a rarity fit for Hollywood, legends unite for another rowdy round of guns and fists that you can only dream of. Van Damme and Norris join in, with the return of Willis and Schwarzenegger, for an all-out resurgence of nostalgia that's gratifying to say the least. Action upon action, "The Expendables 2" is precisely what it sells. Cheesy dialogue, check. Self-referential jokes, check. Colossal explosions and Stallone vs. Van Damme, check and check. It's nothing more, nothing less than mindless activity that keeps the engine running. Accordingly, the story is simple and arid, not meant for any deeper meaning. And half the fun is in deciphering the wordless mumbles by Stallone, who at least gets credit for doing his own stunts. It's the kind of film that know it's bad, that it's actually sort of good. But don't take my word for it, trust in Chuck Norris.

Rating: 3 stars

The Bourne Legacy

Release Date: Aug 10, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr. 15 min. 

Director: Tony Gilroy 

Cast: Jeremy Renner, Edward Norton, Rachel Weisz, Joan Allen, Albert Finney.

Jason Bourne was the CIA's top kept secret. Calculative and efficient, he was their greatest asset, until the day he lost his memory and turned on the agency that created him. Thus began the game of cat and mouse, ultimately serving as the catalyst for a lucrative franchise, as well the motive behind the current spin-off. But can it still be considered a 'Bourne' film without its titled hero? "Legacy" attempts to do so. Previous scribe, Tony Gilroy, goes behind the lens for the 4th installment of the action-packed series. His familiarity with the territory proves beneficial, as consistency is key in setting up the foundation. Replacing Matt Damon's ubiquitous Bourne is Jeremy Renner as the pharmaceutically-enhanced Aaron Cross: Faster, stronger and more perceptive, Cross is the next breed of operatives spearheaded by the CIA. But when the agency fails once again to cover up its tracks, it spawns a new enemy that is as deadly as the last. If that all sounds too familiar, it's because it is. Renner's character, while new and improved, is almost the exact replica of Damon's...at least in the physical sense. He fights like a killing machine, and does so with a dose of empathy, but lacks the vigor that Damon so accurately possessed. As "Ultimatum" did with "Supremacy" before it, the film dual-paths the story, taking place simultaneously along with Jason Bourne's discovery of Operation Blackbriar. For that reason, it's essential to be aware of the prior events, in order to follow the continuity of the plot without getting confused. Gilroy purposely injects an exuberance of Bourne references to get the ball rolling, though it eventually grows wearisome as it's clear that he's no longer in the picture. Likewise, the action level is noticeably subdued, detracting from the existing trilogy set by Liman and Greengrass. Overdrawn dialogue and medical terminology, instead, take up a good portion of the script, leaving little room for car chases and hand-to-hand combat. This includes the non-existent confrontation with the super agent that typically happens in any Bourne film. But like all quasi reboots, "Legacy" has room for expansion. The further the conspiracy thread is pulled, the more it's inclined to unravel. Aaron Cross will definitely be back to fight another day, with or without Jason Bourne.

Rating: 3 stars

Men in Black 3

Release Date: May 25, 2012  

Runtime: 1 hr. 44 min. 

Director: Barry Sonnenfeld 

Cast: Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin, Jemaine Clement, Emma Thompson, Alice Eve.

They've been called agents. Galaxy defenders. And of course, the ubiquitous 'men in black.' But to the rest of us, they're a reminder of simpler times, when alien lifeforms were the least of our worries, and Will Smith was still 'gettin' jiggy wit it.' Following the recent trend of resurrected franchises comes the third installment of "MIB," reuniting the oddball pair of Tommy Lee Jones and Smith. Ten years since the last outing, the two still got it: taking down extraterrestrials and neuralyzing civilians. But as fate would have it, things change when Boris the Animal escapes from prison with a vendetta against K. As a result, J must go back in time to stop him, thus changing this presumable sequel into a prequel, so to speak. If there's a memorable quality from the "MIB" series, it's the quirkiness that comes hand-in-hand with its humor. In addition to the alien renditions that are bizarre in nature, the stories are always outlandish and told primarily for the audience's enjoyment. While many agree that the second entry was forgettable, the third is a vast improvement due to one reason: Josh Brolin. Whether it's braving the west, or playing the President, Brolin is always at the top of his game when getting into character. His intonation and physical mimicry of Tommy Lee Jones is so dead-on that you forget the two are not of the same individual. And not to be wholly forgotten, Smith is still consistent as well. After being absent from the screen for over three years, his 'comeback' seems appropriate that it should be on familiar grounds. (Better this than the atrocity, "Wild Wild West.") Even though "MIB 3" may not be a necessary sequel/prequel, and the best at that, it still shows heart at the end of it all. How? That's for you to find out.

Rating: 3 stars

Safe House

Release Date: Feb 10, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 54 min.

Director: Daniel Espinosa 

Cast: Denzel Washington, Ryan Reynolds, Vera Farmiga, Brendan Gleeson, Sam Shepard.

If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then "Safe House" has all the proverbial trimmings. In his first U.S. debut, director Daniel Espinosa stays inside the box as he navigates through another action thriller about security and corruption. Denzel Washington is back in his element as Tobin Frost, an ex-CIA operative-cum-rogue agent. Upon obtaining a classified file, he is ambushed by mercenaries and emissaries alike, thus beginning a rugged chase through the streets of Cape Town. Though Denzel's known to play the good guy well, he plays the bad even better, and it's this adeptness that keeps him consistent—not to mention giving him that long-deserved Oscar for "Training Day." And while his performance here comes nowhere close to that caliber, he still devotes his time and energy to get the job done, admitting with some help along the way. Ryan Reynolds continues to demonstrate his abilities as an actor, building atop the benchmark he established in "Buried," and displaying a vulnerability that can't be ignored. The two spark an embattled partnership that's not too far off from Hawke and Washington's affiliation in the aforementioned "Training Day." But the story itself is less than refined, adopting cues from past films that are too obvious to miss. With this, we get predictable twists and familiar characters, some of which are mostly forgotten. Even so, Espinosa packs an ample dose of action and gunfire, making it more enjoyable than the other corresponding movie, "Haywire."

Rating: 3 stars

A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas

Release Date: Nov 04, 2011  

Runtime: 1 hr. 30 min. 

Director: Todd Strauss-Schulson

Cast: John Cho, Kal Penn, Neil Patrick Harris, Patton Oswalt, Danny Trejo, Tom Lennon.

Tis the season to get high, in the latest adventure with "Harold & Kumar." John Cho and Kal Penn reprise their roles as the stoner pair, this time reuniting after years of distance and separation. Harold is now a wealthy businessman down on Wall St. (cue the protesters), and Kumar is unemployed, unshaven and single. While not much has changed since the last roundabout—the boys still end up in their crazy antics and NPH is, well, 'straight'—the third time around doesn't feel as repetitive as the earlier disappointment that was "The Hangover: Pt II." On the contrary, "Christmas" is the most cartoonish of the bunch, tipping the scale of idiocy and obscenity to full-on mayhem. With the use of 3D technology and claymation, if feels like a constant acid trip, without the after effects. You have to give credit to the writers for their creativity, as this drugged out wonderland is remarkably full of holiday spirit, albeit in all the wrong ways. The best thing about the franchise is still NPH, of course, who willingly pokes fun of himself, as himself; a paradox of sorts. His presence alone makes up for the flaws that come with a sequel that has an easy premise to begin with, and not much going for it afterward. Will it ever surpass the novelty of going to "White Castle?" Probably not. But it sure puts a cracked spin on a holiday that's typically meant for kids. Think of it as a Christmas classic for the immoral side in you.

Rating: 3 stars

Tower Heist

Release Date: Nov 04, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 45 min. 

Director: Brett Ratner 

Cast: Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Casey Affleck, Alan Alda, Matthew Broderick, Téa Leoni, Michael Peña, Gabourey Sidibe.

Talk about a job gone wrong. When a group of condo employees get bamboozled by their wealthy resident, the only way to cope is to get even. But like all knuckle-headed heists, it's easier said than done, and improbability becomes irrelevant in a caper-comedy made for amateurs. In his first mainstream movie since "Rush Hour 3," Ratner keeps to what he knows, bringing talent together for a comedy that should please the general masses. Led by an unusually reserved Ben Stiller, the cast is what makes "Tower Heist" so appealing, giving much deserved attention to the supporting likes of Michael Peña and Gabourey Sidibe. But at the end of the day, it's all about the Eddie Murphy show and his long-awaited comeback to the comedy spotlight. After years of spiraling downward with family-friendly gigs, Murphy returns with gusto, and validates his old knack for humor with his fast-talking, wise-cracking persona. While the first half of the film delivers the majority of the jokes from the trailer, it's no less amusing in the context of the planning that already seems ill-fated from the start. It's when the actual heist comes into play that things go astray, and open a can of unanswered questions that leave us feeling dumbfounded. Still, Ratner's films are never meant to be taken seriously and this one shouldn't either. A heist is what you ask for and a heist is what you get.

Rating: 3 stars

Real Steel

Release Date: Oct 07, 2011 

Runtime: 2 hr. 7 min. 

Director: Shawn Levy 

Cast: Hugh Jackman, Dakota Goyo, Anthony Mackie, Evangeline Lilly, Kevin Durand.

Childhood fantasies get as 'real' as they come in the latest film to tackle life-sized robots with combative attitude. Hugh Jackman stars as Charlie Kenton, an obsolete boxer who resorts to illegal bot fights in order to pay off loans. Unlucky in winnings and afflicted by debt, he's left with nothing to lose when his son suddenly returns in to his life due to unforeseen circumstances. As they attempt to rebuild their frayed relationship, they discover a talent in a sparring bot named Atom, and the makings of a true underdog is born. In a role reversal of sorts, Dakota Goyo excels as the wise-crack son, Max, who acts older than he appears. His handling of words and acting abilities lay the groundwork for the father-son storyline that verges on being conventional, but in return adds emotional depth and value. While it isn't the most inspired of screenplays, "Real Steel" certainly packs a punch when it comes to the entertainment factor, and the action is where the film thrives at its best. With crushing metal and grinding gears, the robots move swiftly and deftly like any real fighter, which can be credible to the scenes' adviser: none other than boxing legend, Sugar Ray Leonard. But Levy works with what he has—great CGI and a strong lead—to provide us with an action flick worthy of any match, even if by split decision.

Rating: 3 stars

Contagion

Release Date: Sep 09, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 46 min.

Director: Steven Soderbergh 

Cast: Marion Cotillard, Matt Damon, Laurence Fishburne, Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Winslet.

Fear can come in all shapes and forms, but sometimes, it's what you can't see that's the most dangerous of them all. And so it implies in the viral-disaster thriller from director Steven Soderbergh. When a mysterious virus breaks loose on the population, the CDC is caught in the crossfires, and social mayhem ensues across the globe. Supported by a cast of high-profile actors, Soderbergh brings relevance to today's society with a devastating epidemic that feels terrifyingly surreal, yet seemingly familiar. Through a gritty lens, we witness the paranoia that engulfs the masses, dismantling all sense of security and sanity we have come to withhold. But in spite of the crisis that pans out on screen, there's a lack of mounting tension that keeps the film suspenseful for great periods of time. This is primarily due to the fact that you never quite feel invested in any of the victims of the outbreak. As various stories merge and disperse, the time spent on introducing characters is abbreviated, thus allowing recall to come solely based on faces alone. An exception to the rule is Paltrow, whose presence on screen is ostensibly brief but crucial to the plot. Her pallid face and body convulsions are but a few of the things that resonate from the entirety of the film. However, this goes without saying, the acting is still all-around superb; with names like Damon, Winslet and Cotillard, it's bound to be the case. By the end of the film, you can't help but feel unease as the pieces fall into place, which is probably what Soderbergh was gunning for. Next time you're out and about, you may just think twice about who, or what, you touch.

Rating: 3 stars

Friends With Benefits

Release Date: Jul 22, 2011 

Runtime: 1 hr. 47 min.

Director: Will Gluck 

Cast: Justin Timberlake, Mila Kunis, Patricia Clarkson, Woody Harrelson, Jenna Elfman, Richard Jenkins, Bryan Greenberg.

The age-old question of can friends be intimate without complications has been around for decades, or as recent as this past January. But while the outcome is utterly predictable and riddled with clichés, "Friends With Benefits" offers its own take on it, and rides on chemistry to improve upon its forgettable doppelganger, "No Strings Attached." Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis star as the experimental couple; he, as a commitment-phobe, and she, as an emotionally-damaged individual. Together, they strike up a perfect balance thanks to a convincing performance by both stars. Kunis continues to raise her stardom as the cool girl-next-door, while Timberlake is surprisingly bearable when he’s playing himself. Adding to the pair is Woody Harrelson as a gay sportswriter, whose comedic timing is impeccable whenever he’s putting Timberlake’s character down. What makes this movie work is its modern look on an old query, implementing cultural references that include flash mobs to digital technology. It’s understandable and all the more relatable when it’s in context and not taking itself too seriously. But when a movie is only as funny as its characters, it doesn’t quite apply when the story takes on a somber sideline. Though meant for character building, it comes too abruptly and digresses from the notion of being a romantic comedy. Nevertheless, “Friends With Benefits” has its perks, if not for Timberlake’s rendition of Kris Kross. 

Rating: 3 stars

Cars 2

Release Date: Jun 24, 2011

Runtime: 1 hr. 52 min.

Director: John Lasseter, Brad Lewis 

Cast: Owen Wilson, Larry the Cable Guy, John Turturro, Eddie Izzard, Michael Caine, Emily Mortimer. 

Pixar films never seem to fall short of extraordinary—let alone ordinary—when it comes to storytelling, so it was a disappointment when "Cars" debuted back in 2006 after the brilliance that was “The Incredibles.” Lacking the emotional pull that usually characterizes their films, it felt like a step back for the animation powerhouse. Yet that didn’t stop Pixar from releasing the sequel, and fortunately, we get a remodeled follow-up that is worthy to be called an upgrade. “Cars 2” continues from where it left off, with Lightening McQueen returning to Radiator Springs with his 4^th Piston Cup win, and reuniting with familiar friends. But he soon finds his stay short-lived when a push towards the Grand Prix has him and best friend, Mater, in a race that spans across the globe. International intrigue and location details are just some of the new elements that help the sequel jump into high gear and excel further than the original. This time, it's Mater who takes the limelight, as mistaken identity transforms him from dim-witted tow truck to secret agent. Alluding to such spy films as “007” and “Mission: Impossible,” “Cars 2" keeps the action sequences engaging, while putting less emphasis on the gimmicky humor that’s usually involved. In turn, we get a sleek peek at spy life through the windshields of animated vehicles voiced by an impeccable cast, including newcomers Michael Caine and Emily Mortimer. From the flashing streets of Tokyo to the royal palace in London, “Cars 2” is the most grandiose to come from Pixar so far. But it still doesn’t possess the qualities that make it as memorable or achieving as the rest. With “Brave” set to release next summer, another original story may just be what the studio needs to get back on track.

Rating: 3 stars

Fast Five

Release Date: Apr 29, 2011

Runtime: 2 hr. 10 min.

Director: Justin Lin 

Cast: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Matt Schulze, Sung Kang. 

High octane. Fast cars. Hot girls. What began as a street-racing fad back in 2001 has rapidly developed into a bankable franchise over the years, targeting car enthusiasts and fanboys alike. And fifth time proves to be the charm as Justin Lin pulls out all the stops in his third effort as director in the series. Akin to “Fast & Furious,” the film continues on a more serious tonality, testing the dynamics and virtues of the group headed by Dominic Toretto and Brian O’Conner. But unlike its four predecessors, car racing takes a backseat, as the story shifts gears and focuses on the heist itself. Joining Diesel and Walker are all the recognizable characters from the past; many of which provide the comic relief needed during the downtime between totally absurd action sequences and highly implausible stunts. As they prepare to pull off ‘one last job,’ they face adversaries from every direction, including DSS agent Hobbs played dimly by Dwayne Johnson. Despite his hulking appearance and stone-cold manner, Johnson’s acting is as formidable as a boulder, with terrible one-liners and disgruntled glares. But if you’ve ever wondered what it’d be like to see Vin Diesel take on ‘The Rock,’ be prepared for an exhibition of brawn versus brawn. It's almost as if the primary goal of the film was just to see who packs the bigger punch. Either way, the massive box office results should be indication that this franchise is yet to finish. Though the fifth installment is actually the events that occurred before "Toyko Drift," it's clear that there's plenty of fuel left in the tank for another sequel. Stick around for the post-credits to see what's next.

Rating: 3 stars