The Greatest Showman

Release Date: Dec 20, 2017 
Runtime: 1 hr. 45 min. 
Director: Michael Gracey
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams, Zac Efron, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson.

I should probably preface this review with the fact that I'm a sucker for musicals. It's subjective and not everyone's cup of tea but throw in a good soundtrack and I'm usually intrigued. Loosely based on the life of P.T. Barnum, "The Greatest Showman" is a dreamer's story of rags to riches. Hugh Jackman stars as the man himself, bringing all of the charm and star power that we've come to love about him. After seeing his talents at the Oscars and in "Les Mis," it's great to see him flex his vocal chords with some original songs. Touted as featuring the lyricists of "La La Land," it's hard not to make any comparisons in this new age of modern musicals. While "Showman" does have its array of catchy numbers, they come off as sounding more generic and 'pop' than being original. The so-called show-stoppers are good examples of this, but that's not to say they aren't enjoyable in the least. The ballads offer up memorable moments, with "Rewrite the Stars," featuring Zendaya and Zac Efron, being a personal favorite. Where songs meets spectacles is when the film really soars – getting us lost in the wonder and magic of being at the circus. It's this escapism that I've come to love about musicals and "Greatest Showman" does not disappoint. The choreography and cinematography are absolutely gorgeous, whereas the whole cast looks to be thoroughly enjoying themselves. In lieu of this, the story falls into the ways of being conventional, ignoring the darker and less favorable aspects of Barnum's life. But honestly, that shouldn't be the take away of the film, as its main message stretches far deeper than that. At the heart of it all, "The Greatest Showman" revels in celebrating individuality and diversity. After all, given the current circumstances, what's more culturally relevant than that?

Rating: 4 stars

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

Release Date: May 05, 2017 
Runtime: 2 hr. 15 min. 
Director: James Gunn 
Cast: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, David Bautista, Bradley Cooper, Vin Diesel, Karen Gillan, Michael Rooker,
Kurt Russell.

We've seen more than our fair share of Marvel movies, the last being the psychedelic and egocentric "Doctor Strange." But if you think of a ragtime team of quirky misfits, only one series easily rises to the top. Kicking off the first of three MCU outings to release this year, "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" is, unsurprisingly, another surefire hit. Banding together Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket and Baby Groot, it's a welcome reunion of unrestrained comedy and adventure. Known ubiquitously as the 'Guardians,' we find our heroes tasked by a group called the 'Sovereign' to protect valuable batteries from an inter-dimensional creature. <Cue music> Like its predecessor, the film thrives on classic oldies, some intentionally less familiar than others. But this time around, Gunn opts for slower ballads, in turn missing a level of energy that emboldened the first one. Fortunately for us, the humor remains intact, utilizing each character to the best of their strengths, or in some cases, their weaknesses. Despite a cynical raccoon (aka "trash panda") and newly reborn tree being, the funniest of the bunch is none other than Drax the Destroyer. David Bautista is an irrepressible riot, becoming the bedrock that coincidentally unifies the characters. As relations are ultimately tested and frayed, 'family' becomes the overarching thematic, particularly for our lead hero. Kurt Russell joins the cast as Quill's (Star- Lord) father Ego, a seemingly remorseful yet powerful being. With motives unknown and a strained reconciliation, the film gradually becomes a retrospect of father and son. As a result, it's a slower build-up than before, spotlighting again the problem with most Marvel flicks: uninteresting villains. But Gunn makes up for it with spectacular visual effects, expanding the unexplored universe with colorful imagination. The aging effect, notably, is probably the best we've seen yet, and a stellar indication of just how far we've come in technology. While "Vol. 2" may not be the superior sequel that we hoped for, it definitely substantiates it's not just a one hit wonder. Note to the wise: hang tight until the very end to be treated by not 1, not 2 but 5 end credit scenes. (Thanks James Gunn.)

Rating: 4 stars

 

Doctor Strange

Release Date:Nov 04, 2016
Runtime:1 hr. 55 min.
Director:Scott Derrickson
Cast:Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Mads Mikkelsen, Tilda Swinton, Rachel McAdams, 
Benedict Wong.

We've had weapon specialists and Asgardian gods, super soldiers and extraterrestrials, but the next Marvel adventure transports us beyond the psyche. Entering a world of mysticism and time manipulation, "Doctor Strange" is full of elaborate complexities. Starring Benedict Cumberbatch as the hero himself, it's a casting match made in heaven akin to Tony Stark. Sharing similar traits of arrogance and charm, Cumberbatch is a brilliant addition to the ever-growing roster. Once a gifted neurosurgeon with no care but his own, an accident leaves him debilitated and bitterly defeated. Following a chance encounter and discovery of a secret sanctum, he gains power unlike any he's had before. Like other Marvel endeavors, the film is thoroughly entertaining, balancing humor with action and onscreen chemistry. But where "Strange" excels is in its visual achievements, twisting worlds upon worlds in a mind-bending experience. Much of it is reminiscent of "Inception," save for the dream realm which is replaced here with teleportation. Tilda Swinton is a perfect gender swapped Ancient One, while Chiwetel Ejiofor adds compassion and ascertainable dimension. Mads Mikkelsen as the villain gets the short end of the stick, with little to no importance or intimidating prowess. As a result, the story is weak at times, though Cumberbatch duly makes up for it with his cocky charisma. In comparison, the score is beautifully crafted by Michael Giacchino, genuinely integral for a supporting role of its own. While "Doctor Strange" may just be another notch in the MCU, the music and visuals make it the most sensorial entry to date. As Phase III has only just begun, it's exciting to see some new life added to the mix.

Rating: 4 stars

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Furious 7

Release Date: Apr 03, 2015 
Runtime: 2 hr. 17 min. 
Director: James Wan 
Cast: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris Bridges, Jordana Brewster, Jason Statham, Dwayne Johnson, Kurt Russell, Djimon Hounsou,
Tony Jaa.

The "Fast and Furious" franchise has gone through its share of metamorphic changes, from imports to actors to out-of-this-world stunts. But one thing that's stayed true has been its affinity towards family – a notion more applicable now with the unfortunate passing of Paul Walker. In spite of the hardships, the series has endured for this reason or another, and the latest installment is a testament to that sentimental value. As a continuation from "Fast & Furious 6" and, in turn, "Tokyo Drift," the gang is now being hunted by the brother of Owen Shaw (Luke Evans.) Jason Statham joins the cast of automotive villains, as an ex-special forces operative with an appetite for vengeance. Unlike previous adversaries before him, he's a physicality to be dealt with, proving to be a match for even Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. In a chase that spans the world from LA to Abu Dhabi, the action stakes are higher than ever before. Airdrops and building jumps are only the tip of the iceberg, as James Wan pulls out all the stops in this high-octane frenzy. Just as improbability takes the forefront in every action sequence, the emotional ties are visible in every heartfelt conversation. Using a reverential combination of CGI and body doubles of his siblings, Walker gets a proper sendoff in his final performance. Alongside those who that have stood by his side – including some old from "Furious" past – his story comes full circle in a gratifying way. With parallels to the first film, as well as its successors, there's a sense of nostalgia deep beneath the surface. Of course, the plot itself is not as equally substantial, as additional narratives further complicate the matter. But Wan does a good job of carrying on the torch, taking over for Justin Lin who has directed the previous four films. At the end of the day, it's the fond memories that will ceremoniously live on – though live on it shall in at least two more sequels.

Rating: 4 stars

Interstellar

Release Date: Nov 07, 2014
Runtime: 2 hr. 49 min. 
Director: Christopher Nolan
Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Michael Caine, Casey Affleck, Topher Grace, Wes Bentley, Matt Damon, John Lithgow.

When Christopher Nolan stated that "Interstellar" would be his most ambitious film to date, he certainly wasn't exaggerating. Dealing with space-time continuum, gravitational singularity, fifth dimensional probability, and the fate of mankind, the influx of information can challenge even the most scientific of minds. Yet through it all, he delivers another transcendent experience – one that truly captures the mysteries of the galaxies beyond our reach. Boasting an all-star cast led by Matthew McConaughey, the film probes the question of life after Earth. It's a meticulous exploration of human survival – one that takes ample years in the making, and hours upon hours of viewing. Nolan takes us on a spatial journey of unfathomable beauty, from our blight-stricken planet to otherworldly terrains. While the grand scale of it all is visually compelling, it's the small hope for humanity that ultimately shoulders the story. McConaughey gives an affecting performance as a NASA pilot turned farmer turned planetary savior. His personal odyssey is filled with tangible emotions, and draws you in much like the elusive black hole. To that point, the science is undoubtedly an impressive element of the film, based on actual research done by theoretical physicist Kip Thorne. With so much of the unknown still left to be discovered, it's a fascinating glimpse into the possibilities of existence. This, in turn, bolstered by the thunderous sound and score, makes it as much of a physical interaction as it is cerebral. But be that as it may, the film still has its minor eccentricities, specifically when it comes to interpreting the ending. There's a fine line between fact and fiction, and another between imagination and implausibility. With Nolan choosing to objectify the latter, it somewhat compromises the plot line from having a greater impact. Regardless, "Interstellar" is definitively a cinematic achievement, one to be fully appreciated in the grandeur of IMAX. Though the future of space travel is yet to be determined, the film's thought-provoking questions may someday lead to our answers.

Rating: 4 stars

John Wick

Release Date: Oct 24, 2014 
Runtime: 1 hr. 41 min. 
Director: David Leitch, Chad Stahelski 
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Michael Nyqvist, Willem Dafoe, Adrianne Palicki, Alfie Allen, Dean Winters, Ian McShane, Bridget Moynahan.

Keanu Reeves isn't exactly known for giving scintillating performances – generally ranging from monotonous to befuddled to downright apathetic. But there seems to be one definitive state that suits him effectively and it's an all-encompassed rage as an accidentally-wronged assassin. Starring as the titular "John Wick," aka the 'Boogeyman,' Reeves marks a dynamic return as a legitimate action star. Former stunt coordinators David Leitch and Chad Stahelski make their directorial debut in this vengeance-themed rampage filled with satisfying brutality. Steeped in gun fights and head shots staged with rhythmic choreography, "John Wick" is simply and foremost an action film. Forget any character arcs, climactic developments, or even a dignifying motive, it's the full throttle fights that are the defining characteristics. Reeves ignites at procuring massive body counts – one shot never enough to take down an opponent. His meticulous nature is enhanced by his stoic disposition, for once playing more to his strength than his usual weakness. The world he inhabits is equally enthralling, a hidden society of killers in a posh environment. Not a minute ticks by without an energizing blow, or a lack of a corpse for that matter. Yet given the brevity of his return, there may be more to the story, as the doors are left open for a (potential?) franchise. Revenge comes in all shapes and forms but now most will know it by the name of "John Wick."

Rating: 4 stars

Edge of Tomorrow

Release Date: Jun 06, 2014
Runtime: 1 hr. 53 min.
Director: Doug Liman 
Cast: Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt, Bill Paxton, Brendan Gleeson.

In a torrent of sequels and reboots, it's an oddity to find a standalone worth keenly pursuing, coupled with a Tom Cruise actioner that is different and inventive. But "Edge of Tomorrow" is an exhilarating joyride, and a bigger surprise than ever anticipated. Based on the Japanese light novel, "All You Need Is Kill," the story revolves around a war between the humans and an alien species called 'Mimics.' Tom Cruise stars as Major William Cage, a timid, military spokesperson forced to partake in the invasion. After he dies quickly in his first bout of battle, he inexplicably reawakens the day before, again...and again. It's a concept reminiscent of countless movies past, with repeated calamities resulting in varying outcomes. But whereas repetition can typically be an undermining factor, Liman creates a sharp sci-fi thriller that's thoroughly engaging. Cruise gets credit for evolving his character, from being cowardly to fearless, as we've all come to know him. Each 'reset' is unique in its ramifications, oftentimes humorous and abrupt to offset the rhythm. The fast-paced nature is the strength of the film, as it reloads and maneuvers from one take to another. Emily Blunt gives a bad-ass performance in her first action role as the 'Angel of Verdun.' Her camaraderie with Cruise is enjoyable to watch, as they strategize against an enemy who seems impossible to defeat. Unfortunately, the ending falls short of a consummate win, neither effective nor impulsive as it could have been. But that set aside, "Edge of Tomorrow" is hands-down one of the most gratifying films of the summer, and exactly what makes Tom Cruise a bona fide action star.

Rating: 4 stars

X-Men: Days of Future Past

Release Date: May 23, 2014

Runtime: 2 hr. 11 min. 

Director: Bryan Singer 

Cast: Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Nicholas Hoult, Peter Dinklage , Ellen Page, Evan Peters, Halle Berry, Shawn Ashmore.

Like a gene within a mutant, the "X-Men" series has undergone various evolutions, from directors to actors to oscillating timelines. Yet despite some setbacks (ie. "Last Stand," "Origins"), it has remained tested and proved, to be a reliable beacon in the comic book world. With the welcome return of Bryan Singer and a handful of originals, it's a reversion to better days in "Days of Future Past." Beginning in a bleak future where Sentinels hunt ruthlessly, we find the X-Men cornered with little to no hope. As a last act of survival, Kitty Pryde sends Wolverine's consciousness back to 1973, to change the past, and their lives, for an alternate future. It's a risky move for Singer who has directed only two of the last six films, employing something as elusive as time travel. With continuity being an issue, not to mention the ever-existing paradox, it's a challenge for anyone to connect each and every component. But Singer makes due with his experiential knowledge, offering up a mind-bending summer blockbuster with a nostalgic value. Combining the "First Class" with the old class, it's a reunion of sorts, as familiar faces return to readily join forces. But it's a newcomer that swiftly, and comically, steals away the spotlight, the aptly named Quicksilver played by Evan Peters. While apprehension has surrounded Marvel's dual intentions ("Avengers: Age of Ultron" will have its own take on the character,) Peters is surprisingly well-suited for the role. Less serious and volatile than what's to be expected of the latter, his tricked-out scenes (3600 fps) are visually the best parts of the film. Comparably, the battle scenes with the Sentinels are brimmed with intensity, as they finally play a larger role other than inside a simulation. The plot, however, is predictably convoluted, as real-life situations coalesce with past story lines. To the occasional viewer, inconsistency is easily dismissible, but to the discernible eye it unrightfully breaks the continuum. Some upbringings of the past no longer seem valid, while certain events of the future are just deliberately ignored. But creative licensing is sometimes necessary in times of reformation, whether it's for better or worse is subject to opinion. Nevertheless, "Days of Future Past" gives fans another favorite in the series, though the best may be yet to come. Bring on the "Apocalypse."

Rating: 4 stars

Godzilla

Release Date: May 16, 2014
Runtime: 2 hr. 3 min. 
Director: Gareth Edwards
Cast: Aaron Johnson, Elizabeth Olsen, Bryan Cranston, Ken Watanabe, David Strathairn.

When you hear "Godzilla," you're likely to picture the 1998 blunder, starring Matthew Broderick and Jean Reno. Hokey, uninspired, and poorly scripted, it was an ill attempt at modernizing the legendary monster. But as the saying goes, "it's better late than never," we finally get an American remake that's worthy of that title. Gareth Edwards directs the latest on the Japanese classic, going back to its roots of epic proportions. Spanning the globe and introducing a new set of creatures, it's already a giant departure from its deficient predecessor. The story, for one, is effectually developed, bringing humans to the forefront inside embattled cityscapes. Bryan Cranston, particularly, carries the emotional heft of the film, as he struggles to expose the truth by any means necessary. His brief screen time is far more compelling than Johnson's leaden performance, who is easily forgettable when not dodging disaster. Yet despite the film's title, Godzilla himself is seldom present – teased repeatedly through dark waters and billows of fog. Edwards strategically builds up the anticipation, so when the beast does appear it's all the more thrilling. His gargantuan size and trademark "atomic breath" are a sight to behold when he's ultimately unleashed. As he comes face to face with his equally massive prey, the slow build and suspension seem reasonably diminished. While diehard fans will eternally find flaws in these remakes, there's no doubt that we've progressed since 1954's "Godzilla." With lookalikes like "Cloverfield" and "Pacific Rim" steadily emerging, it's nice to see the return of the original "King of Monsters."

Rating: 4 stars

The Raid 2: Berandal

Release Date: Mar 28, 2014 
Runtime: 2 hr. 28 min. 
Director: Gareth Evans 
Cast: Iko Uwais, Yayan Ruhian, Arifin Putra, Oka Antara, Tio Pakusadewo.

Two years ago, a little known film single-handedly altered the action landscape, blasting the bars of violence to a whole new level. Pitting fists versus bones in a winner-take-all, subtleties were absolved in favor of brutality. So how do you top one ruthless masterpiece with another? Add more carnage, of course. Gareth Evans returns as writer and director, continuing the story from where we last left off. Rama (Iko Uwais) is now tasked to work undercover and weed out the police corruption from within the crime cartel. But as he learns quickly from prior experiences, there's more on the line than just his life. With greater intensity and brilliant choreography, Evans has really outdone himself the second time around. Edited with an eye of ingenuity, the fights transpire impressively with an air of fluidity. Opposing Rama in a new set of battles are another horde of criminals with no sense of fear. Standouts include siblings "Hammer Girl" and "Baseball Bat Man," names very reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino. With each new scene is a geyser of blood, and no escape from the expo of death. It's the defining trait of this action-packed series, not recommended for the weak and the weary. As for the rest, "Raid 2" falls short of the first film, with less suspense and tension due to its slightly more detailed plot line. What was great about "Redemption" was its single-minded goal, which in turn, confined itself to tight spaces and centralized fights. But duplicating themes is never a strong point of sequels and Evans finds ways to progress on through. With the intention of this being an integrated trilogy, we can expect to see more bloodshed in the foreseeable future. That's bad news for Rama who's taken more beatings than he can sustain.

Rating: 4 stars

The LEGO Movie

Release Date: Feb 07, 2014 
Runtime: 1 hr. 35 min. 
Director: Phil Lord, Christopher Miller 
Cast: Chris Pratt, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett, Will Ferrell, Morgan Freeman, Liam Neeson.

Back when "The LEGO Movie" was first announced, the whole idea sounded absurd. The prospect of a film based entirely on toy blocks seemed more like a marketing ploy than anything else. Yet lo and behold, if they can dream it, they can build it — and surprisingly enough, it's a movie worth seeing. From the writers that brought us "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs," comes a quirky new adventure set in the intricate realm of LEGO's. Voice-led by Chris Pratt and a handful of stars, it's an elevated take on a childhood classic. Emmet, played by Pratt, is an everyday construction worker, ordinary and faceless to all those around him. But when a prophecy calls upon a "Special" to thwart the evil doings of the "Kragle," it's up to him to rise to the challenge and go from zero to hero. At first glance, it may seem like an average underdog tale, a rehash of morals and conventional values. But residing deeper is a story much more intellectual than that, as ingeniously clever and creative as that of "Toy Story." Through its rigid movements and constructed environments, the film embraces the versatility of its star, in this case the LEGO piece. The animation is unique in that very sense and stirs up the nostalgia of being a kid all over again. What's more are the colorful characters that inhabit the world, from Batman to Bad Cop/Good Cop to "1980's Space Astronaut Guy." They really validate the limitlessness of it all when it comes to imagination, particularly in line with the climax that will be left unsaid. While some scenes can come off as theatrical and divergent in tone, "The LEGO Movie" is a film that's truly built for all ages. With a sequel already in the works and positive box office results, there will be plenty of more chances to recapture our youth.

Rating: 4 stars

The Wolf of Wall Street

Release Date: Dec 25, 2013 
Runtime: 2 hr. 59 min. 
Director: Martin Scorsese 
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Jonah Hill, Kyle Chandler, Jean Dujardin, Matthew McConaughey.

Money may not buy you love but it sure can buy you a heck of a lot of other things, as seen here in "The Wolf of Wall Street," the latest collaboration between Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio. Baring semblance to "Boiler Room," which was inspired by the same events, the film focuses on Jordan Belfort, an American stockbroker convicted of fraudulence. DiCaprio plays Belfort with impeccable arrogancy, commonly breaking the fourth wall to speak of his extravagance. Whether cavorting with prostitutes or in a drug-induced coma, his apathy towards wealth is entertaining, if oddly compelling. It's when the partying gets repetitious that the limelight fades away, revealing the repugnancies of his misdeeds and others out there like him. Scorsese bears no qualms in throwing it all out there, a masterful composition of obscenities – 506 to be exact. "The Wolf of Wall Street" is loud, belligerent and excessive, much like any power-hungry mogul, and for that it's indifferent of how obnoxious it can be. Yet the audacity of it all is the real reason for its allurement, demanding undivided attention til the last forsaken minute. Clocking in at three hours, it's taxing to say the least, with a bloated plot line that just as easily could've been two. But Wall Street takes no weaklings as neither does Scorsese. It's go big or go home – preferably with some money.

Rating: 4 stars

American Hustle

Release Date: Dec 13, 2013 
Runtime: 2 hr. 9 min. 
Director: David O. Russell 
Cast: Christian Bale, Bradley Cooper, Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Jennifer Lawrence.

What elevates a film not only relies upon the director but the very actors that bring his or her vision to life. It takes a team collaboration to periodically reel in success but another to assuredly materialize the script. Thanks to a topnotch cast of heavy hitters, that's exactly what we get in David O. Russell's "American Hustle." Loosely based on the sting operation that took place in the late 70's/early 80's, the film centers on a couple of con artists who get duped into advising the Feds. As one of the few directors who adheres to familiarity, it's no surprise to see stars from Russell's prior productions. Starring Christian Bale and Bradley Cooper, just to name a few, it's a convocation of nominees set out for award show resurgence. Bale miraculously transforms himself again for another physically-altering role, a true testament to his dedication as a method actor. Hardly recognizable under his misshapen toupee, his ever-changing appearance is just a fragment of his already prolific career. 2013 has been a big year for Lawrence and Adams, both playing prominent roles in a handful of pictures. That said, they compete admirably here in a battle for female dominance – Lawrence being another standout as the highly impulsive (or crazy) Rosalyn Rosenfeld. If there's one category this film is destined to win, it's for its stellar ensemble cast, unmatched against its fellow competitors. But aside from that, there are other noteworthy qualities: the hair, the fashion, and of course, the soulful music. It's a step back into time as dutifully shown by the old production cards, all of which conjure memories of Hollywood's past. As the film winds down, the main message is clear. Everyone hustles for something, whether it's love or truth. But in the end, we all share one commonality: we all hustle to survive.
 
Rating: 4 stars

Captain Phillips

Release Date: Oct 11, 2013 
Runtime: 2 hr. 13 min. 
Director: Paul Greengrass 
Cast: Tom Hanks, Catherine Keener.

As the year winds down, the awards' season is merely ramping up, for the ultimate showdown of talents and films alike. At the forefront is Paul Greengrass' "Captain Phillips," based on the Maersk Alabama hijacking back in 2009. Recalling the attacks by Somali pirates and the courageous action of the crew, it's a tense, dramatic thriller worthy of review. Starring Hanks as the titled hero opposite a cast of unknowns, the film takes an objective approach to looking at two sides of the story. Alternating between the crew and the Somali pirates, the contrast of motives is intriguing and highly insightful. Disparately, the buildup is slow and long, adding to the runtime and delaying the onslaught of anxiety. But the last 40 minutes are a ticking time bomb waiting to explode, with the last 10 affirming why Hanks is still one of the greatest. His experienced turmoil is deeply compelling, bearing down on the soul and eliciting powerful emotions. With "Gravity" gaining momentum and a slew of high caliber films coming down the pipeline, "Captain Phillips" will be have plenty to compete for in the upcoming months. But if the past is any indication, Hanks will have his fighting chance. After all, he's been lost at sea before.

Rating: 4 stars

Pacific Rim

Release Date: Jul 12, 2013
Runtime: 2 hr. 11 min. 
Director: Guillermo del Toro 
Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Idris Elba, Charlie Day, Rinko Kikuchi, Ron Perlman.

From visionary mastermind Gullermo del Toro, comes the ultimate summer blockbuster in retro glory. Channeling classic 'robot anime,' commonly referred to as 'mecha,' "Pacific Rim" is a reverent homage to never growing up. In a future where Kaijus (Japanese: monster) are rampant in number, Jaegers (German: hunter) are built to fight brawn for brawn. Operated by pilots via what's called a 'neural bridge,' man and machine must become one as the last line of defense. The sheer breadth of these battles are simply astounding, pitting robot versus beast in the depths of the Pacific. Darkly stylized in perpetual rain, del Toro spares no expense in embracing the ambiance. With such focus on appearance, character back-stories are sidelined, offering glimpses of memories as collateral substitution. While this makes the film shallow in terms of development, it's generally what's expected for this type of genre. Charlie Hunnam leads the cast of mismatched characters, from the ever-serious Idris Elba to comic relief Charlie Day. Though representing the last stance of the stricken human race, they're no more than tiny figurines in this colossal-sized picture. Charged by an electrifying score by Ramin Djawadi, "Pacific Rim" is front and foremost about Jaegers and Kaijus. Action-packed and visually stimulating, they're a manifestation of any kid's (or adult's) fantasy that's larger than life. Granted, this isn't del Toro's greatest masterpiece, it ranks high in this summer's go-see movies.

Rating: 4 stars

Man of Steel

Release Date: Jun 14, 2013  
Runtime: 2 hr. 23 min. 
Director: Zack Snyder 
Cast: Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon, Diane Lane, Russell Crowe, Kevin Costner, Laurence Fishburne.

Superheroes come and go, but there is none quite as emblematic as the man with the letter "S." Representing a symbol of hope and morality, Superman has long been considered a hero of immeasurable standards, universally and in the comic book world. So it's with rapt anticipation that we dive into the newest chapter – in a saga that has only just begun. While this is certainly not the first storytelling of the Last Son of Krypton, it is alternately a much somber portrayal than is usually conceived. Akin to the "Dark Knight" series by Christopher Nolan, his involvement here is perceptible even as executive producer. Together with Zack Snyder as anointed director, they bring an ominous feel that's light years apart from what we've seen in the past. Krypton, in shades of gray and steel, is majestically altered to fit into a contemporary new world. Whereas Snyder's cinematic style is utilized to its fullest, it's his aptitude for action that duly precedes him. Perhaps more enthralling than the film itself is the score composed by Hans Zimmer who never ceases to amaze. The escalation of strings and percussion create a rousing energy, accompanying each scene with a force as powerful as its lead. Henry Cavill is solidly cast in the role, compassionate yet tenacious as both Clark Kent and Superman. Previously personified by the late Christopher Reeve, it's no less playing a hero than replacing an icon. Not to be discounted, Bryan Singer's "Superman Returns" was an affable attempt, but it never gained the popularity it was meant to attain. Like all superheroes, there entails some weaknesses, and "Man of Steel" begs no different in its quest for greatness. Thoroughly dark and less cheesy than before, humor is noticeably absent for the majority of the film. On the flip side, destruction takes its toll on the city of Metropolis, bordering on excessive in scene redundancy. Nevertheless, "Man of Steel" takes a large stride towards the rumored "Justice League" movie – a rumor that is this much closer to becoming a reality. As fans wait patiently with abated breath, it seems DC has proven to rise again.

Rating: 4 stars

This Is The End

Release Date: Jun 12, 2013 
Runtime: 1 hr. 47 min. 
Director: Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg 
Cast: James Franco, Jonah Hill, Seth Rogen, Jay Baruchel, Craig Robinson, Danny McBride.

This is chaotic. This is absurd. "This Is The End" – the best comedy of 2013. Written and directed by the wacky minds of Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, the film centers on a group of actors trapped in the midst of the sudden apocalypse. Starring Franco, Hill and a handful of stars, it's like a fraternity for the rich and famous...if they smoked weed everyday. Like all of their films combined, there's no shortage of laughter, from gut-busting dialogue to hilarious cameos. Michael Cera, for one, breaks free from his stereotype, playing the most perverse version of himself in ways unimaginable. And that's the general thematic of "This Is The End," actors trying to one-up the other in humoristic fashion. One scene in particular will have you rolling in stitches, as McBride takes on Franco in the verbal match of the century. At the core of the film is the estranged bromance between Rogen and Baruchel, both longing to reconnect with the other before the impending Armageddon. It's what keeps the story grounded during all the craze and mayhem, as things only get more demented with each passing second. Contrary to appearance, there are some horror elements as well – jumpy scenes that can catch you off guard, much like Jonah Hill's studded earlobe. But through in through this is a comedy that won't easily be forgotten, as quotable punch lines are expected for many years to come. At least until the end of the world, that is.

Rating: 4 stars