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

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

Release Date: Dec 21, 2011 

Runtime: 2 hr. 38 min.

Director: David Fincher 

Cast: Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Plummer, Stellan Skarsgård, Steven Berkoff, Robin Wright.

From the highly-acclaimed Millennium trilogy, and Stieg Larsson's international best-seller, comes the gruesome tale of murder, mystery and deceit. When disgraced journalist, Mikael Blomvkist, is recruited by wealthy patriarch, Henrik Vanger, to investigate the disappearance of his niece forty years prior, he uncovers a trail of murders that are as inexplicable as they are disturbing. Enter Lisbeth Salander: a skilled hacker with an aversion to human interaction. Together, they form an unlikely partnership to solve the mystery, while grappling with their inner conflicts and moral complexities. Riding the success of the recent Swedish adaptation, master storyteller David Fincher takes the helm of what has rapidly become a literary staple in recent culture. Dark in tone and heavy-handed in dialogue, Fincher stays true to the source without compromising his own vision. The opening sequence of amorphous imagery is both haunting and beautiful, as it sets the tonality of what's to come. As brilliant castings go, Daniel Craig is a natural as sharp-witted Blomvkist, while Rooney Mara is flawless as the titular "Girl with the Dragon Tattoo." Though previously encapsulated by the talented Noomi Rapace, Mara's drastic physicality and enigmatic presence are enough to extinguish any forms of comparison, as inevitable as that may be. The story, while far from forgotten, undertakes a parallel narrative for an extended period of time, which helps keep it suspenseful and riveting — like watching it for the first time. Similarly, the score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross is perfectly attuned to each scenic backdrop, despite being reminiscent of their last collaborative effort, "The Social Network." Granted, remakes rarely surpass the original, Fincher's interpretation deserves its praise and recognition. A strong story can be discernible in any form, but a strong lead is hard to come by. Without Mara, there can be no "Girl Who Played with Fire."

Rating: 4 stars

Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol

Release Date: Dec 21, 2011 

Runtime: 2 hr. 13 min. 

Director: Brad Bird 

Cast: Tom Cruise, Paula Patton, Simon Pegg, Jeremy Renner, Michael Nyqvist.

The stakes are high and the match is lit for another mission deemed 'impossible' in Brad Bird's "Ghost Protocol." After an explosion at the Kremlin, the IMF team is accused and disavowed, leaving its agents stranded without shelter or reinforcements. Led by the always resourceful, Ethan Hunt, a new team is assembled to carry out, possibly, the most challenging mission yet, and take on death-defying stunts that boldly blow out the rest. Paula Patton and Jeremy Renner join the fourth installment, with the latter being the most anticipated to see kick ass on screen. Comparable to the last round, Cruise steps back to let his teammates shine, even going as far as allowing Renner to complete the trademark stunt that has distinguished the franchise in all three films. But not one to be outdone, Cruise takes his own jab at withstanding gravity, deftly scaling the tallest skyscraper in the world without breaking a sweat. Whereas the action is pulsing and the new gadgetry is impressive, "Ghost Protocol" still lacks the clever storytelling that made the third film so engrossing. Particularly, a fairly wordless villain, played by Michael Nyqvist, makes for little intimidation, and draws an emotional disconnect when rallying against Ethan Hunt. Still, Bird proves he's a capable director beyond the animation world, keeping the lens close to all the action and excitement. Though it may not be the best "Mission" yet, it sure comes close, and another sequel may be the next objective.

Rating: 3½ stars

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

Release Date: Dec 16, 2011

Runtime: 2 hr. 8 min.

Director: Guy Ritchie 

Cast: Robert Downey, Jr., Jude Law, Noomi Rapace, Jared Harris, Rachel McAdams.

It may take a mastermind to orchestrate a diabolical plot, but it only takes one man to outsmart him. Robert Downey, Jr. returns as Sherlock Holmes, the maniacally brilliant detective with an aptitude for trouble. When we last left Holmes, he merely started to unravel a thread to a much larger scheme puppeteered by his eventual archnemesis, Professor Moriarty. Now, the battle of wits begins as it's winner takes all in "A Game of Shadows." Coming off the success of the first film, Guy Ritchie continues to inject new life into the enduring literary character. Whereas its predecessor focused on the highly intricate game of cat and mouse, the sequel is imbued with fast-paced action and a hefty dose of explosions. Slow-motion sequences interlaced with close-up shots make it a visionary experience that characterizes the series thus far. RDJ and Law are a match made in bromance heaven, as their banter and partnership are what keep the story moving forward without risk for boredom. Likewise, Jared Harris plays the notorious adversary well, and keeps his composure while doing so, as he's both mysterious and calculative. The only weak link appears to be newcomer Noomi Rapace, who ingeniously played Lisbeth Salander in the original "Girl with the Dragon Tattoo," but here, gives off a lukewarm performance. The blame, however, may lay with the writers who allocate more time for the action star Holmes, rather than the intellectual one. The story, while engaging, is complicated with so many elements that it takes much effort to comprehend and deduce than before. But there's no doubt that the sequel is a rollicking good time, and there's plenty of cases left to explore. Holmes will see to that.

Rating: 3½ stars