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

 

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

Release Date: Dec 16, 2016 
Runtime: 2 hr. 13 min. 
Director: Gareth Edwards
Cast: Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Ben Mendelsohn, Donnie Yen, Jiang Wen, Alan Tudyk, Mads Mikkelsen,
Forest Whitaker.

It goes without saying there's always a palpable energy when it comes to anything "Star Wars:" the intro, the score, and of course, the conflict. And if "The Force Awakens" was any indication of renewed nostalgia, "Rogue One" is the next best thing in this ongoing saga. Being the first in a planned anthology series, the film has its advantages of being independent from the canon. While it is technically a prequel to "A New Hope," "Rogue One" delivers an untold narrative – ultimately feeling fresh and new as a solid stand-alone feature. Centering on the Rebels who led the first successful battle against the Galactic Empire, it is, in all essence, a war movie. Packed with action sequences and aerial combat, Director Gareth Edwards pulls out all the stops in this intergalactic adventure. Felicity Jones as the headstrong protagonist is another step forward in gender/diverse casting. Along with the addition of Diego Luna, Donnie Yen and Forest Whitaker, to name a few, "Rogue One" boasts and exceeds much needed diversification. As is such the case, however, the most interesting character is none other than a droid. K-2SO, played by Alan Tudyk, is as cynical and droll as C3PO is affable. His passive aggressive demeanor is a fun counter to Jyn's more defiant nature and, as a result, he receives some of the best lines of the film. A few familiar faces also make timely appearances, as obvious connections to linear storytelling. While the use of CGI is generally beneficial, some scenes can be unnerving and noticeably artificial. Still, "Rogue One" offers a gratifying experience, even if it's a filler before Episode 8. With plenty more stories coming down the pipeline, this will be one that's hard to beat.

Rating: 4.5 stars

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

Release Date:Nov 18, 2016
Runtime:2 hr. 13 min.
Director:David Yates
Cast:Eddie Redmayne, Dan Fogler, Katherine Waterston, Ezra Miller, Colin Farrell, Samantha Morton.

It's been 5 years since the conclusion of a beloved franchise, and 5 years since the loss of magical storytelling. But lo and behold, J.K. Rowling proves she still has something up her sleeve, igniting a series bred for a new generation. Preluding the birth of "Harry Potter," we embark on an unforeseen journey with remarkable creatures – "Fantastic Beasts" to be exact. Set in 1926 in New York City, we follow Newt Scamander, a zoologist on a mission to rescue these mythical beasts. Potterheads should be familiar with Newt thanks to the resourcefulness of Rowling, who not only wrote the screenplay but also the 'textbook' that inspired it. It's in this regard that "Beasts" conjures a pleasant familiarity, one only attainable with the help of the author. Eddie Redmayne takes the limelight of the autonomous hero, while Colin Farrell is implied as the underlying villain. Dan Fogler provides the comic relief as the inadvertent sidekick, whose role as No-Maj (muggle) is fortuitous in context. It's a change from trailing students at Hogwarts, moreover, relocating to America to discover a cultural diversity. But while incantations and levitations remain the same, that is where the similarities end. The plot, as a whole, is less thrilling than accustomed, and it's hard not to miss old familiar faces. Newt, while likable and honest in nature, is hard to picture in the long run as a strong protagonist. But hints of a character that's been long forgotten tells us there's more percolating beneath the surface. As protracted secrecy is J.K. Rowling's forte, it'll be interesting to see how this franchise unravels over the course of 5 films. Though "Beasts" is no match for the likes of "Harry Potter," it appears to at least have some budding potential. 

Rating: 3½ 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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Suicide Squad

Release Date:Aug 05, 2016
Runtime:2 hr. 3 min.
Director:David Ayer
Cast:Will Smith, Margot Robbie, Jared Leto, Joel Kinnaman, Jai Courtney, Cara Delevingne, Viola Davis, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Jay Hernandez, Ike Barinholtz.

It's been an uphill battle for DC Comics, coming off of a lackluster "Batman v Superman" amidst a barrage of hype. And it's been no easy task of fending off Marvel, which has outdone itself in both Netflix and film. Yet "Suicide Squad" imbued a small inkling of hope, touting a power-stacked cast and a reputable director. Its marketing alone was effective to say the least, teasing and coaxing the inner fanboy. But optimism aside, it still wasn't enough to keep "Squad" from falling short of wayward expectations. To start with the positives, it's entertaining for the most part – envisioning characters, old and new, in a psychedelic universe. Embellished in graphics and maniacal in nature, the film veers in its own unique direction. Continuing from where "BvS" left off, a new task force is assembled, employing some of the world's most dangerous criminals. Led by intelligence operative Amanda Waller (Davis) and Colonel Rick Flag (Kinnaman), the team is assigned to battle powers unknown. Will Smith as 'Deadshot' is easily the most recognizable, using his Hollywood stature to domineer the film. As a result, he acquires the most character development, in comparison to others who fall wayside with limited exposure. Cara Delevingne, in particular, is the weak link of the group, as beauty undermines acting suitable for the role. On the flip-side, Jared Leto takes on the titular Joker, having undergone another ultra-dramatic transformation. Over-the-top and excessively unhinged, he's a polarizing rendition that we have seen thus far. Standing alongside the likes of Jack Nicholson and Heath Ledger, Leto is distinctive, if not unforgettable. Is he the best? Certainly not. But there's a humane side to him that feels new to the role. Margot Robbie, on the other hand, is rather underwhelming, as her wide-eyed lunacy comes off ditzy and superficial. The complexity of Harley Quinn is what makes her appealing and this, unfortunately, is not thoroughly conveyed. So much of the film seems like a missed opportunity and it's a shame, really, to knock it for its delivery. This could be attributed to the editing of the film, with rumors of Ayer being overlooked for a trailer production company. With so much time and effort being spent on visual integrity, the execution suffers greatly, whether ill-advised or intentionally. But if anything else, at least the soundtrack is enjoyable, and there's always those fun, abbreviated trailers. While DC still has a lot of catching up to do, the chance at success may lie near in the future. Next up to the plate: "Wonder Woman."

Rating: 2½ stars

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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

The Maze Runner

Release Date: Sep 19, 2014
Runtime: 1 hr. 53 min.
Director:Wes Ball
Cast: Dylan O'Brien, Will Poulter, Thomas Sangster, Aml Ameen, Ki Hong Lee, Kaya Scodelario, Patricia Clarkson. 

There's a certain formula when it comes to YA adaptations: a dystopian future with futile hopes of survival, and the lone hero who's repeatedly undermining the system. And then there always seems to be an emergence of new challengers – another story, another franchise just waiting to be capitalized. But seldom does a film improve upon its source material, which just happens to be the case for James Dashner's "The Maze Runner." Set in a vast clearing called 'The Glade' enclosed by a maze, the film is shrouded in mystery from its initial conception. Thomas, played by Dylan O'Brien, is thrust into this world, with no recollection of how or why he got there. With little more than a name and a group of Gladers, it's up to him to solve the maze and its true intentions. What made Dashner's book intriguing was the secrecy of it all and the film sharpens it further with added intensity. Faster-paced and more suspenseful, it has greater elements of surprise, though if you already know the story it's still the same outcome. But minor changes to the script provide a welcome departure, especially in grounding the material in a more plausible reality. Director Wes Ball creates an engaging environment, relying heavily on natural components rather than over-the-top effects. The maze itself is an ever-changing enigma, symbolizing both torment and salvation for the worn-down characters. O'Brien and the cast are convincing in their roles as they are tested physically and mentally in their pursuit of escape. But like most YA films, the ending leaves more to be desired as the inevitable conclusion is anything but that. While it may not match up to "The Hunger Games," "The Maze Runner" stands up on its own as it sprints to catch up in this trending genre.

Rating: 3½ stars

Guardians of the Galaxy

Release Date:Aug 01, 2014   
Runtime:2 hr. 2 min.  
Director:James Gunn  
Cast:Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Lee Pace, Bradley Cooper, Vin Diesel, Michael Rooker, Karen Gillan, Benicio Del Toro, Djimon Hounsou, John C. Reilly, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin.

It's easy to grow listless in the comic book world with enough superheroes and villains to satiate a lifetime. And even more so when dealing with lesser known characters, especially those that are as offbeat as "Guardians of the Galaxy." But Marvel Studios is not one to pass up any challenges, unabashedly proving it still has tricks up its sleeve. James Gunn directs the space-galloping adventure, assembling a team of born misfits to safeguard the universe. Comprised of outlaws, criminals, and a talking raccoon to boot, it's undoubtedly the wildest foray the studio has yet to offer. But given the absurdity that it seemingly portrays, the film is more than just a one hit wonder. Packed with nostalgia and non-stop humor, it's ridiculously entertaining from start to (post-credit) finish. In lieu of conventional origins, the film dives straight into the action, gradually introducing characters as the story progresses. Because of this, the transition feels free from bombardment, as we discover a new universe of epic proportions. From art direction to makeup to 3D conversion, Gunn and his team create an immersive experience. This includes the cast who flawlessly personify the characters: Pratt as the affable 'Star-Lord' and Cooper as 'Rocket.' Each is equipped with memorable one-liners, even Diesel who's limited to only three decipherable words. Coupled with a rocking soundtrack of the 1980's, it's a step back into time of unalterable sentiment. But all good things must come to an end and if there's any complaint, it's that it ends too soon. Luckily, there's many more sequels to be had, and presumably, even with the 'Avengers.' Though "Age of Ultron" may not come soon enough, there's no objection to seeing "Guardians" on repeat.

Rating: 4½ 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

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

Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Release Date: Apr 04, 2014
Runtime: 2 hr. 8 min. 
Director: Joe Russo, Anthony Russo 
Cast: Chris Evans, Samuel L. Jackson, Scarlett Johansson, Anthony Mackie, Sebastian Stan, Robert Redford, Frank Grillo, Cobie Smulders, Emily VanCamp.

We've come a long way since the induction of the Marvel Universe, with back-to-back successions of character story arcs. And with each new arrival inciting the demands of evolution, it's been no easy task of assembling this massive franchise. Yet in spite of these challenges, "Captain America" has stealthily surged above the rest, making "The Winter Soldier" the best Marvel production to date apart from "The Avengers." At the heart of the film is a rapt political thriller, giving prominence to S.H.I.E.L.D. and its fearless leader, Nick Fury. But conjointly, it's also an extended study of Captain America, as he struggles to adapt and accept the new world around him. Over his past two outings, Chris Evans has grown exceptionally into the role of the patriotic hero, and his story is arguably the best developed yet. As his outdated morals and beliefs get tested, we see a fissure start to form in his passive demeanor. Alongside him, Nick Fury and Black Widow gain additional screen time, strengthening their roles beyond just supporting characters. Samuel L. Jackson, who's been the sturdy glue of the franchise, faces adversaries even he can't be protected from. Anthony Mackie joins the cast as codename "The Falcon," an ex-pararescueman turned affable sidekick. His aerial combat scenes are just some of the thrill points in the film, showcasing the directing capabilities of Anthony and Joe Russo. With heftier action sequences, a cohesive plot line, and an equally-matched villain, "Winter Solider" is the rare sequel that's exceedingly better than the first. As the end of Phase II leaves for an uncertain future, the impact will be felt in the upcoming "Age of Ultron." Til then, it's time for a new team of heroes to emerge from the shadows: "The Guardians of the Galaxy" arrive August 1st.

Rating: 4½ stars

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Release Date: Nov 22, 2013
Runtime: 2 hr. 26 min.
Director: Francis Lawrence 
Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Elizabeth Banks, Woody Harrelson, Stanley Tucci, Donald Sutherland, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Lenny Kravitz.

It only takes a spark to start a fire but a girl to ignite a revolution as seen in "Catching Fire," the much anticipated sequel to "The Hunger Games." Following the victory of the 74th annual games, Katniss is now the new symbol of hope for a war-torn nation on the brink of upheaval. But with such fame comes tribulations far beyond her reach and once again she must battle enemies on both sides of the arena. Jennifer Lawrence shines as Katniss Everdeen, an unwitting heroine with a mind of her own. Already pegged as one of Hollywood's favored stars, it's oft forgotten how young Lawrence is with her accomplished demeanor. Yet here she delivers another incredible performance, pushing her to the limits of irrepressible emotions. Also returning are other notable characters, Katniss' support staff and members of the Capitol. Banks and Tucci are as bubbly as ever, with the addition of Philip Seymour Hoffman whose intentions remain ambiguous. Josh Hutcherson plays less of a wounded bird, settling comfortably into the role of friend and savior. Though the story is nearly identical to the first "Hunger Games," the stakes are much higher in the second go-around. With challenges both mentally and physically debilitating, it's a taut thrill ride with greater intensity and prolonged impact (ie. the ending.) Taking over for Gary Ross, director Francis Lawrence faces obstacles of his own, expanding upon Panem and the murderous arena. Fortunately for him, to quote, 'the odds are ever in his favor' and the film is better and bolder as any sequel should be. Flaunting grandiose surroundings and improved special effects, "Catching Fire" should leave fans happy, that is until the epic 2-part finale. As "Mockingjay" isn't set to release until November 2014 and 2015 respectively, it'll be a long wait for those suffering from "Hunger Games" withdrawal. In the meantime, there's always re-reading the book.
  
Rating: 4½ stars

Thor: The Dark World

Release Date: Nov 08, 2013
Runtime: 1 hr. 51 min. 
Director: Alan Taylor 
Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Stellan Skarsgård, Idris Elba.

With Marvel's Phase II now in full effect, there's a perceptible difference between the past and present in their sequential features. More specifically, what happened 'before New York' and 'after New York.' But whereas "Iron Man 3" failed to acclimate to the change, "The Dark World" conforms better, if not for some flaws. Alan Taylor inherits duties from previous director Kenneth Branagh, carrying on the fantastical tale of the mighty Norse god. Set after "The Avengers" and the world-altering events, Thor is now tasked with bringing peace to the realms via his home in Asgard. Chris Hemsworth returns as the hammer-wielding hero having matured progressively since the first film. His confidence is now refined by self-awareness, no longer the selfish boy who only dreamt of acquiring the throne. Beside him, though reluctantly, is his conniving brother Loki, played effortlessly by Tom Hiddleston. There is no one better suited to fit this role, as proven time and time again by his multi-faced egos. Hiddleston shines in being manipulative and his enjoyment is clearly shown through his mischievous grin. This time around the kingdom of Asgard is further displayed, though less stylized and vibrant than Branagh's initial vision. As a result, the scenes don't appear as dimensional as they could be, especially for a world as unique as this. Editing is another issue that plagues the film, jumping from serious to comical without a transitional thought. Scenes feel disconnected and oftentimes choppy, relinquishing a sense of purpose or reasoning. But if there is one thing that is lacking in the first "Thor" film, it is the presence of big action sequences that engulf "The Dark World." With character introductions (other than the Dark Elves) out of the way, Taylor has free reins to grander schemes, whether it's destroying London or teleporting through space. Any form of logic is purposely cast aside because at the end of the day, it is a comic book movie. While "The Dark World" may not surpass its predecessor, it's still a fun entry in the ever-expanding Marvel universe. Next up: "Captain America: The Winter Soldier."

Rating: 3½ 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