Snow White and the Huntsman

Release Date: Jun 01, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr. 7 min.

Director: Rupert Sanders 

Cast: Kristen Stewart, Charlize Theron, Chris Hemsworth, Sam Claflin, Ian McShane.

We all know that fairy tales are make-believe — awakening our imagination as far as the mind can take us. But when a tale is this bland and farfetched that believing is close to impossible, it's easy to imagine something greater. In a dark retelling of the Brothers Grimm classic, Rupert Sanders presents a visual showpiece. Emblazoned with ravens, and oozing with liquid gold, the film is as infernally enchanting as that of Guillermo del Toro. But the similarities end there, as the story and cast do little to quash the weaknesses. Kristen Stewart as the titled heroine is as belittling as you'd expect her. Stoic and emotionless, her "Twilight" days are indistinguishable from the 'fierce' warrior she seemingly portrays in the film. The same can be said for the Huntsman, played by reigning demigod, Chris Hemsworth. Unlike "Thor," his personality here is as rigid as the ax he wields in battle, and it's hard to believe that his affection for Snow White is anything but that of self-pity. In contrast, Charlize Theron gives a worthy performance as the wicked queen, Ravenna. Whilst her bloodcurdling screams are recurrently over-the-top, her sinister demeanor sets the tone of the film, and it's this exaggerated performance that can be construed as its saving grace — or postponement of its imminent failure. Granted, this isn't an ideal adaptation, "Snow White and the Huntsman" still fairs better than "Mirror Mirror," as if that comes of any surprise.

Rating: 2 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

Battleship

Release Date: May 18, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr. 11 min. 

Director: Peter Berg 

Cast: Taylor Kitsch, Alexander Skarsgård, Rihanna, Liam Neeson, Brooklyn Decker.

Every summer, there are the conventional movie bombs. Some, more expected than others, due to poor conception, meager acting, or negative word-of-mouth. Unsurprisingly, "Battleship" is culpable of all three, and sinks rapidly before it even begins. Based on the board game of the same name, it's everything you'd expect from a subpar origin. Explosions and special effects overhaul a baseless script, along with dialogue that's C-level at best. While it has the inner workings of a Roland Emmerich film, and the visual juxtaposition of Michael Bay, it is neither here nor there in terms of entertainment value. Despite a runtime of over 2 hours, "Battleship" doesn't really live up to its name until the end, during which time the actual interaction of the game is introduced. It's those brief 10 minutes or so that the film redeems itself, but only by way of familiarity. The cast fairs no better, combining the absent talents of newcomer Rihanna with the usually dependable Liam Neeson, who hardly has any part in the action whatsoever. But then again, if it were up to him, he would have taken out the aliens with his own special skill set, and there would be no movie to begin with. Sadly, that isn't the case, and Rihanna's still acting. One can just hope that there will be no sequels on the horizon.

Rating: 1½ stars

Marvel's The Avengers

Release Date: May 04, 2012  

Runtime: 2 hr. 23 min. 

Director: Joss Whedon 

Cast: Robert Downey, Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, Clark Gregg, Cobie Smulders, Stellan Skarsgård.

It's never an easy task to create a great superhero movie: one that expresses a story and builds the character, while set in a world acclimated to reality. Yet it's a whole other feat altogether to assemble, not two, but four separate character arcs and make it consistent; let alone coherent and manageable. But if there's one person up to the challenge, it's Joss Whedon, and he pulls off the unthinkable in this summer's first major blockbuster. Already familiarized with the supernatural elements (Buffy, Firefly) — and a master storyteller at that (Cabin in the Woods) — Whedon delivers what should rightfully be called the 'superhero' of all comicbook movies. Bringing together an enormous cast of Marvel favorites that include Iron Man, Captain America and Thor, just to name a few, he manages to carry a narrative that's both smart and well-crafted. From the distinct character details, to the more subtle musical inclusions, the film integrates everything seamlessly for an epic adventure that took years to surmount. Brimmed with endless action sequences and witty dialogue, no individual is left unaccounted for — main, or supporting. What's more is the evolution, or revelation, of the green hero formerly known as The Hulk. Having been resuscitated for far too long, it seems as though third time's the charm with the casting of Mark Ruffalo. More humanized in every way, Ruffalo breathes new life into the troubled character, making it the best part of every scene, as well as the movie in its entirety. With all said and done, "The Avengers" is about as good as it gets...save for "The Dark Knight," of course. But fear not, there's plenty more to come from the Marvel universe. Til then, all hail Joss Whedon.

Rating: 4.5 stars

American Reunion

Release Date: Apr 06, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 53 min. 

Director: Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg 

Cast: Jason Biggs, Alyson Hannigan, Seann William Scott, Eddie Kaye Thomas, Chris Klein, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Eugene Levy, Tara Reid, Mena Suvari, John Cho, Jennifer Coolidge.

In 1999, one movie changed the fate of baked goods forever. Raunchy, uncensored, and crudely entertaining, "American Pie" helped pave the way for teen comedies alike; including two moderate sequels, and the rather unmentionable direct-to-dvd's. But like most things you own in high school, you tend to outgrow them, and that's exactly what happens here in "Reunion." Despite thirteens years in between the first film and now, the characters and scenarios really haven't changed much. Jim is still getting caught in compromising positions, and Stifler is still...well, Stifler. It's the nostalgia that draws you in, but ultimately lets you down, like a long-running gag that's tirelessly been depleted. With familiar antics and lewdness as before, the sequel loses any form of novelty the fourth time around. This is keeping in mind the return of the entire cast, many of whom were absent in the last two rounds. Fortunately, as it's worth mentioning, Eugene Levy as Jim's dad continues to be the comic scapegoat. His unconventional fathering methods have always been the highlight of the "Pie" series, and the same can be said for this entry. If we've learned anything from his words of wisdom, it's that everything happens naturally. And likewise, this franchise has essentially run its course.

Rating: 2 stars

The Cabin in the Woods

Release Date: Apr 13, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 45 min. 

Director: Drew Goddard 

Cast: Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison, Fran Kranz, Jesse Williams, Richard Jenkins, Bradley Whitford.

It begins with a cabin. Throw in five susceptible college kids in a remote location and you have yourself a template for most prototypical horror films of Hollywood past. Only, this isn't your typical horror flick. And this is no ordinary cabin. Rather, it's a homage/breakdown of oldies and favorites combined, with predictability being further from the truth. From the inventive minds of first-time director Drew Goddard and producer Joss Whedon, comes a reimagined storytelling that bends the genre unlike any other. To expect the unexpected is a voluntary prerequisite, but to interpret the hidden layers is a gratifying experience all on its own. Recognizable inklings and characters are but a small fraction of the bigger, more stimulating picture that lies ahead. And with it comes an appreciation of thinking outside of the metaphorical 'cabin.' That's not to say that the flaws are irrelevant in relation to the content. Contrary to the trailer, "Cabin" draws more chortles than frights, which in turn may disappoint horror seekers expecting thrills. In addition, the ending twist may not be the most ideal way to go after an ingenious premise that defies our ability to speculate. But twist, it will, for you'll surely be left befuddled; because you know a movie's done its part when the only word you can think of at the end of it is, "interesting."

Rating: 4 stars

The Raid: Redemption

Release Date: Mar 23, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 41 min. 

Director: Gareth Evans 

Cast: Iko Uwais, Yayan Ruhian, Ray Sahetapy.

When 20 elite cops attempt to overtake a druglord housed in a 30-story building, the only way out is up. But getting there is easier said than done, as merciless criminals lurk in every corner, and ammunition is no longer an option. For all the moments the action was never enough, or the hero had it too easy, "The Raid" is the unequivocal answer. Like taking the hallway scene from "Old Boy" — you know the one I'm talking about — and amplifying it by a thousand, this film is not for the squeamish. There's blood, there's gore, and everything else in between. Credited with introducing Silat (Indonesian martial arts) into cinema, director Gareth Evans brings a striking balance of art and combat in a film that epitomizes the action genre. From gunfights to knifefights, the choreography is spectacular, and pulsates against the hypnotic tracks produced by Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda. But the real deal here is the hand-to-hand carnage, where time plays no factor. Just when you think it's over, another begins, and death is granted only by the hindmost of seconds. Spoken entirely in Indonesian, and starring local talent, "The Raid" breaks the mold in foreign cinema and the martial arts world. It's the type of action film that others have tried to surpass, and some can only dream of. In other words...it's bone-crushingly, neck-breakingly awesome. And if that's not enough, the American remake is already in the works.

Rating: 4 stars

The Hunger Games

Release Date: Mar 23, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr. 22 min. 

Director: Gary Ross 

Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Lenny Kravitz, Stanley Tucci, Donald Sutherland, Wes Bentley.

In the future, North America is in shambles and all that remains is the nation of Panem. As punishment for a past rebellion, the Capitol calls upon the 12 districts to take part in an annually-televised event that features the survival of the fittest. Hence, one girl and one boy from each district must battle to the death until a sole victor is declared. This, is the 'Hunger Games.' Based on the wildly-popular novel by Suzanne Collins and directed by Gary Ross, the next phenomenon of teenage literature is anything but cheesy. Part dystopian thriller and part coming-of-age, "Games" is a concrete adaptation, if ever there was one. Whereas the violence itself is noticeably suppressed (for rating purposes,) the bulk of the material remains intact, producing a cohesive story that even novices could follow. Furthermore, the casting is hands-down stellar. Upon which her shoulders lies the weight of the movie, Jennifer Lawrence embodies the strong-willed heroine, Katniss Everdeen, with simple grace and precision. Her ability to attract empathy, while playing a figure of empowerment, is reason enough to root for the underdog, as well as cultivate an already burgeoning career. Also notable are Elizabeth Banks and Stanley Tucci who play the affable personnel from the Capitol. Their over-the-top attire and eccentric behavior represent the colorful trademarks of the wealthy and help invigorate the bleak surroundings that are the districts. Alas, with such a high-profile film comes inescapable scrutiny — the obvious being the comparison made to Japanese film "Battle Royale." While they have their differences, the identical premise is hard to ignore, and unfortunately, lessens the value of the experience within the arena. In any event, "The Hunger Games" is a solid start to a forthcoming franchise. The battle may have been won but the games are only just beginning.

Rating: 4 stars

21 Jump Street

Release Date: Mar 16, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 50 min. 

Director: Phil Lord, Christopher Miller 

Cast: Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Ice Cube, Nick Offerman, Rob Riggle, Brie Larson, Dave Franco.

In a remake of what launched the insanely diverse career of Johnny Depp is "21 Jump Street," a high school satire with an R-rated edge. Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum star as undercover cops returning to their alma mater to investigate the circulation of a new synthetic drug. With badges on the line, as well as their friendship, the two get a second chance at adolescence, only to realize that high school isn't exactly how they left it. While teenage comedies are a dime a dozen, "Jump Street" plays to its stereotypes, and does it well for the most part. What makes it fun is its self-awareness of being a remake. Not pretending to be a true adaptation of the hit 80's series, its modern-day update is what keeps it entertaining, if not for its forceful use of humor. Extreme vulgarity and a full-fledged bromance are just some of the qualities that make or break the comedy, depending on your preference. Unlike the similarly conceived "Superbad," the jokes are oftentimes conventional, and more juvenile than expected. But the chemistry between the two leads helps overshadow the film's flaws, and keeps the plot moving in a linear direction. Never a fan of Tatum's monotonous range of work, his comic delivery in "Jump Street" far surpasses mediocre expectations, and livens his potential, even if only temporarily. At any rate, there's sufficient room to grow. After all, what comes after high school?

Rating: 3½ stars

This Means War

Release Date: Feb 17, 2012

Runtime: 2 hr.

Director: McG 

Cast: Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine, Tom Hardy, Til Schweiger, Chelsea Handler.

Take a ladies' man, a suave Brit, and one single female and you get a love triangle fit for disaster. Or rather, the spy comedy aptly titled "This Means War." From director McG, the mind behind the garish "Charlie's Angels" reboot, comes a rom-com that seeks the thrills but falters on premise. Starring the easy-on-the-eyes Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine and Tom Hardy, the film does no wrong in flaunting the looks and pairings of a likable cast. This includes the uninhibited humor of Chelsea Handler who, by default, steals the show when she's not inebriated. But underneath the layers of espionage and romance is a jumbled plot line that forgoes any logic, and haphazardly works to create a means of indifference. Pine and Hardy play the two spies respectively, neither more developed than the other. And it comes as a surprise to see Hardy take on such a banal role when he's capable of so much more, ie. "Warrior." It goes without saying that Witherspoon's character ends up with one of them, whether you care or not. The reason of why is another thing left untold, like who is FDR? Either way, while "This Means War" is by no standards a 'great' romantic comedy, it's good enough...if by 'good' you mean okay.

Rating: 2 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

Chronicle

Release Date: Feb 03, 2012

Runtime: 1 hr. 23 min. 

Director: Josh Trank 

Cast: Dane DeHaan, Michael B. Jordan, Alex Russell.

A wise man once said, "with great power comes great responsibility." And for three unsuspecting individuals, it's more than what they bargained for. Adapting the 'found footage' format, "Chronicle" begs the question of 'what if' and the repercussions that follow. When three high school students inherit superpowers overnight, their morals are put to the test, and the battle of willpower is all that separates them from the fringes of evil. Directed by newcomer Josh Trank, what seemingly begins as an archetypal superhero saga, gradually transforms, resulting in a deep-seated chronology that's remarkably original, if not compelling. Like "Cloverfield" and "Paranormal Activity" before it, "Chronicle" takes the unconventional route on a derivative genre, casting unknowns and using camera techniques to make it realistic and relatable. Dane DeHaan as Andrew, the awkward yet temperamental character, is frighteningly adept in showcasing his emotions, possessing an eerie quality that carries the film up until its epic climax. From the grounds to the sky, there's no limits to where the scenes take you, capturing the events as they unfold through the characters' eyes. But this is perhaps where the handheld camera method fails and is falsified, as there appears to be one readily available wherever they go. Additionally, there seems to be no rhyme or reason as to how this footage was discovered, other than the assumption by the viewer. Nevertheless, while "Chronicle" certainly won't be the last of its kind, it affirms that the novelty hasn't worn out quite yet. Sooner or later, there will be more found footage, and its contents will essentially be revealed.

Rating: 3½ stars

Haywire

Release Date: Jan 20, 2012 

Runtime: 1 hr. 32 min. 

Director: Steven Soderbergh 

Cast: Gina Carano, Michael Douglas, Ewan McGregor, Michael Fassbender, Channing Tatum, Michael Angarano, Bill Paxton, Antonio Banderas.

Jason Bourne gets the feminine touch in Steven Soderbergh's "Haywire." Starring Gina Carano as Mallory Kane, she plays a lethal contractor who gets duped by the very firm that hired her. Filled with a talented cast, including the newly popular Michael Fassbender, the film has all the workings of a bonafide thriller. But while the trailer over-promises action and amped-up revenge, the reality is admittedly far less exciting, and here's where the problem begins. Soderbergh obviously meant this to be a starring vehicle for Carano, whose name and looks are distinguished in the MMA world. That being said, she can dish out a punch like any pro and make it believable, unlike most actresses who have trained all of their lives. But pair that with her novice acting abilities and you get a far less convincing performance that deadens an already serpentine plot line. Her robotic voice and expression do little to justify her role as an assassin, let alone give her much personality onscreen. Likewise, the fight scenes, while substantial and realistic, seem out of place in the ghostly silence that surrounds them. Mix that with an odd "Ocean's Eleven" vibe and conventional story line, and it's not difficult to see where it all went wrong. But Soderbergh is sought after in the film industry for a reason, and he'll have plenty of opportunities at redemption. Hopefully his next project, "Magic Mike," will have more up its sleeve than just dollar bills.

Rating: 2 stars