The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

Release Date: Dec 13, 2013
Runtime: 2 hr. 40 min. 
Director: Peter Jackson 
Cast: Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Benedict Cumberbatch, Evangeline Lilly, Orlando Bloom, Luke Evans, Stephen Fry.

When we last saw Bilbo (Martin Freeman) he was endlessly on the run, from dangers lurking at every corner. And it's where we continue this much-prolonged journey, not far from where we initially left off. Part two of "The Hobbit" is a filler sequel at best, bridging the gap between the first film and the climactic finale. Equally long and thoroughly detailed, it's a feat on its own considering the brief source material. But where there's a will there's a way and Jackson makes due, offering another engaging chapter in this Tolkien trilogy. Hobbit, Dwarves and Orcs return for this hightailed adventure in action scenes a plenty filled with tension and banter. Furthermore, the inclusion of Legolas (Orlando Bloom) is a welcome sight to see, giving nods to the future, or rather, what has already transpired. Yet perhaps the most anticipated arrival is Smaug himself, the elusive dragon voiced by none other than Benedict Cumberbatch. His deep-set tone effectively personifies the role, as he majestically breathes to life through the help of sleek CGI. Smaug's encounter with Bilbo is easily the high point of the film, with the exception of the barrel roll scene that is notably amusing. Jackson spares no expense when it comes to visual prowess, regularly topping himself with each new installment. But the use of 48fps is still far from appealing, appearing more like a video game rendering than actual movie. At any rate, "Desolation of Smaug" is a gratifying sequel, however stretched it feels to get to the inevitable cliffhanger. The delay is nothing compared to the whole year ahead of us, when "The Hobbit" returns with "The Battle of the Five Armies."

Rating: 3½ stars

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Release Date: Dec 14, 2012  
Runtime: 2 hr. 49 min. 
Director: Peter Jackson 
Cast: Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Ken Stott, Graham McTavish.

"The Lord of the Rings" was a pivotal journey if ever there was one. Written by J.R.R. Tolkien and adapted by Peter Jackson, it amassed a following of epic proportions, while it opened a world full of fantasy and adventure that spanned over the course of an extensive trilogy. Now almost a decade later, Jackson revisits the series that catapulted his career, transporting us back to Middle Earth where it all began. Taking place before the events of "LOTR," "The Hobbit" is, foremost, a prequel. Introducing new characters, as well as carrying over old ones, it goes without saying the buildup is expectedly slow. After much long-winded ambling, it's not until the 45 minute mark that things decidedly pick up, with dangerous situations arising at every turn. Like embracing an old friend, the settings are discernibly familiar. Ranging from The Shire to Rivendell, panoramic views of Jackson's constructed world are abundantly present and overtly realistic to a certain degree. Interestingly enough, majority of the critics' negativity seem to stem from this new technology enhancement (48fps vs. 24fps), which many find to be unnecessary and frivolous. However tempting as it may be, it's usually safe to assume that 2D is the viable way to go, at least for the first go around. What matters here are the story and characters that encompass the film, even if they're not always on key. Considering "The Hobbit" is only one book on its own, the plot is prepensely stretched thin. As a result, progress is all but limited to capture and escape, a repetitious but entertaining means of advancement. In addition, "Unexpected Journey" is considerably more lighthearted than "LOTR," with humorous jabs from the Dwarves and Goblins alike. Slightly less monotonous than "The Fellowship of the Ring," "Journey" goes by fairly quickly considering the drawn out time stamp. By the end of the film, Baggins, played perfectly by Martin Freeman, optimistically proclaims that 'the worst is behind them.' But knowing Jackson and his lofty reputation, this is only the beginning of what is to come.

Rating: 3½ stars

Watchmen

Release Date: Mar 06, 2009
Runtime: 2 hr. 43 min.

Director: Zack Snyder

Cast: Malin Akerman, Billy Crudup, Matthew Goode, Carla Gugino, Jackie Haley.

Not having read the original comic book series, I could rightly say that this movie was fairly disappointing. With all the hype, let alone a great trailer, it just did not work as well as "300" despite visual similarities. For one thing, the film was extremely long. There were too many filler pieces, aka unnecessary love scenes, that seemed to stray from the story. By the time the film veered back towards the main plot line, it was already the last 20 minutes of the film, which I enjoyed the most. The only character that seemed to have much depth and personality was Rorshach. Every scene he was in was entertaining, mostly due to his unabashed cynicism. The rest were pretty bland, even Dr. Manhattan who seemed overly powerful to be even cast in the same light as the others. And what was up with Nixon?? Either find an actor who better resembles him or a fake nose that doesn't shift shapes throughout the whole movie. Overall, not really worth it unless you're an avid fan of the series.

Rating: 2 stars

Push

Release Date: Feb 06, 2009 
Runtime: 1 hr. 51 min.

Director: Paul McGuigan  

Cast: Dakota Fanning, Djimon Hounsou, Chris Evans, Camilla Belle, Cliff Curtis.

An expected failure of a film that doesn't go beyond offering what's in the trailer. The so-called 'names' for each group of gifted beings were questionable, as well as the way they performed these powers. The story was disconnected and confusing towards the end. There was also a lack of, if any, character introduction and development. It's comparable to "Jumper" with the only difference being slightly better acting. The best part that deserves some form of credit: Dakota acting drunk.

Rating: 1½ stars

Max Payne

Release Date: Oct 17, 2008 

Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min. 

Director: John Moore 

Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Beau Bridges, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Olga Kurylenko.

After constant failures with video game adaptations, one would think that the torture would end. Yet, here is another film that boasts style more so than anything else. While some scenes are reminiscent of Frank Miller and John Woo, the rest are a poor excuse to show a video game on the big screen. The story is incoherent from beginning to end, introducing characters abruptly and lazily as they come. Even the action wasn't as present in a film that boasts so much in the trailer. Aside from trying to figure out the main plot-line, I was too distracted by identifying the random actors that kept popping up. See if you can spot Nelly Furtado.
 

Rating: ½ star