Despicable Me 2

Release Date: Jul 03, 2013  

Runtime: 1 hr. 38 min. 

Director: Chris Renaud, Pierre Coffin 

Cast: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Benjamin Bratt, Miranda Cosgrove, Russell Brand.

Turn the world's nefarious villain into a stay-at-home dad and you get "Despicable Me 2," Minions take two. In the sequel to the surprisingly successful picture by Illumination Entertainment, we find Gru, newly reformed and adjusted to parenthood. But when a mutating chemical compound is stolen by an unknown entity, it's up to the former villain to step in and save the day. Far less despicable than its aptly named predecessor, the follow-up is kinder, having grown softer at its core. Gru, voiced by Steve Carell, is irrevocably changed, no longer the hardened criminal that made him so engaging. His Minions, on the other hand, are as unruly as ever, stealing most of the prime light – for better or worse. In spite of their own spin-off due out next December, the film gives early indication of the tumult that is to come. On the plus side, the addition of Kristen Wiig is wholeheartedly welcomed, her character of Lucy Wilde being as fervent as she is. Her chemistry with Gru/Carell is undeniably salient, making their next onscreen collaboration all the more enticing (hint: anchorman). Whereas the story is inviting and the animation is on par, it's the characters that make it worth it, particularly little Agnes. Seeing as there will probably be another sequel in the imminent future, for now it's up to the Minions to carry on the torch. 

Rating: 3½ stars

World War Z

Release Date: Jun 21, 2013  
Runtime: 1 hr. 55 min. 
Director: Marc Forster 
Cast: Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, Fana Mokena, James Badge Dale, Ludi Boeken, Matthew Fox, David Morse.

We've seen the world decimated in a multitude of ways but not nearly as frequently as the zombie apocalypse. Based on the popular novel, albeit loosely, of the same name, "World War Z" recounts the deadly epidemic and its global repercussions. Unlike the source material, the film is deliberately whittled down, solely focusing on a former UN employee as he investigates the outbreak. Pitt as Gerry Lane is what you've come to expect, a family man with heart and altruistic values. The fate of mankind rests essentially in his hands, though the answer to why is not fully obtained. Likewise, the origins of the disease is another mystery in itself, initially looked into but never resolved. For a film plagued by rewrites, it fares better than most – heavy-handed in action and laced with suspense. The adrenaline-pumped zombies are a new breed of terror, granted the CGI can get cumbersome when overexposed. While the story could have strengthened by additional perspectives, "World War Z" is still a thrill ride more often than not. With more battles lost than actually won, a sequel is ripe for another assault.

Rating: 3½ stars

Monsters University

Release Date: Jun 21, 2013  
Runtime: 1 hr. 42 min. 
Director: Dan Scanlon 
Cast: Billy Crystal, John Goodman, Steve Buscemi, Helen Mirren, Peter Sohn.

In 2001, Pixar revealed what goes bump in the night, with the ingenious narrative titled "Monsters, Inc." Remarkably inspired and heart-touchingly funny, it told the story of two monster employees who scared for a living. Now 12 years later, our favorite 'Scarers' are back, this time living the glory days at their beloved alma mater. In this dubbed prequel, we follow Mike and Sully as inexperienced freshmen, as they tackle the intensive challenges of collegiate life. But despite the mature context of "Monsters University," it's determinedly more kid-friendly than customarily expected. Missing the adult wit that's made Pixar so enjoyable, the plot is simple at best and effectively unimaginative. It goes without saying the animation is superb, enlivened with color and enriched with detail. Each monster is unique in his or her own way, as we get introduced to new characters while fraternizing with old ones. But one face you won't see is the adorable little Boo, who doesn't appear until after Mike and Sully become MU alumns. It's a small sacrifice for the sake of chronology, but one that's sorely missed for sentimental value. As the story spends a great deal of focus on imitating Greek life, it feels less like an animated feature than it does a college tutorial. But faith has not been lost on the animation powerhouse, as Pixar's planned sequels seem especially promising. "Finding Dory" is already set for a 2015 splash, while "The Incredibles" is still hopeful for a heroic return.

Rating: 3 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

Fast & Furious 6

Release Date: May 24, 2013 
Runtime: 2 hr. 10 min. 
Director: Justin Lin 
Cast: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Sung Kang, Gal Gadot, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Luke Evans, Jordana Brewster, Elsa Pataky, Gina Carano.

If you've seen it once, you've seen it all; at least, that's what you would expect from a franchise running on fumes. But tinker with it enough and you might get something completely refurbished, and "Furious 6" affirms to do just that. 'All roads lead to this' seems appropriate as the tagline, as it took the culmination of all five films to get it to its best. While "Fast Five" was the turning point in rebranding the franchise, it was merely a stepping stone to create something larger on a global scale. As the cars and techs have evolved, so have the characters, forming a tight-knit family that has grown over the past decade. And that's fundamentally the basis of this ongoing series, the crew against the world in life or death situations. Fittingly, the opponents this time around are equally matched, nearly clones of Toretto and his car-wielding gang. Luke Evans as Owen Shaw is by far the most interesting villain, more calculative and cunning than just another drug lord. This makes for exhilarating chase scenes and explosive stunts, one of which includes a speeding aircraft on a never-ending runway. So much so that it's sensory overload from beginning to end – action locked and loaded. That's not to say these exploits are even remotely plausible, going from wild to kitschy in a matter of milliseconds. But director Justin Lin does have a flare for mobility, as camera movements and angles place you right in the action. As for the story, it gets kudos for tying it all together, relating back to the fourth film (a la Michelle Rodriguez), as well as another (hint: end credits.) If what they say is true, you save the best for last, and the finale should be nothing short of spectacular. But knowing how this industry works, the end may not be so near.

Rating: 4 stars

The Hangover Part III

Release Date: May 23, 2013 
Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min. 
Director: Todd Phillips 
Cast: Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Justin Bartha, Ken Jeong, John Goodman, Heather Graham,  Mike Epps, Melissa McCarthy.

They've gotten inebriated in Vegas and lost in Bangkok. Shot at, drugged up, and married to a stripper. And through it all the Wolfpack has maintained (at least) half of their sanity, only to return to the beginning...and inevitable scene of the crime. In the third entry of Phillips' gratuitous trilogy, the trio is back, uniting for their last great adventure in a string of misdeeds. When Alan comes in need of an emergency intervention, it's up to the guys to escort him on a deceivingly simple road trip. But things like these are never that easy; and once again it's utter chaos and bad news for Stu. While "Part II" was disappointing and lacking any originality, "Part III" takes an unexpected detour with a darker plot line. Not so much a 'hangover' but a rescue mission, the film is relatively detached from its preinstalled formula. As consequence, the context does feel new and favorably less repetitive, but at the same time offbeat in relation to the series. Ken Jeong's Leslie Chow is front and center as the film's antagonist, who's always stirring trouble for the hapless group. In minor doses he's vexing but a comic relief, unpredictable in nature of when he'll show up. But as the central figure, he detracts from the predisposed story line, reducing the Wolfpack down to just a couple of foragers. Though there are moments where there are glimpses of past hilarity, it comes too infrequently to really leave an impression. While "Part III" brings closure to the Vegas escapades, it's not necessarily a warranted one that anyone's ever asked for. But if there's anything to look forward to, it's the side-splitting end credits. Ed Helms will never look the same.

Rating: 2½ stars

Star Trek Into Darkness

Release Date: May 16, 2013  
Runtime: 2 hr. 12 min. 
Director: J.J. Abrams 
Cast: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Karl Urban, Benedict Cumberbatch, Zoe Saldana, Simon Pegg, John Cho, Anton Yelchin, Bruce Greenwood, Peter Weller, Alice Eve.

Four years ago, audiences returned to the final frontier, where the voyage of the starship Enterprise resumed for a new generation. Feeling contemporary for novices, and refreshingly original for Trekkies, "Star Trek" was a prime example of how to invigorate a series that was decrepitly out of touch. But if one man could do it, it was J.J. Abrams. And if "Star Trek" was merely the tantalizing appetizer, then "Darkness" is undoubtedly the satiating main course. Beginning with an intense escape from a newly-discovered world, the sequel feels immeasurably different from its aforementioned predecessor. Injected with warp speed and hand-to-hand combat, there's less trekking and passivity than is usually associated. Captain Kirk and his crew are now comfortably settled in, with the return of a cast that is exceedingly seamless. Pine, as the fearless leader, faces more personal provocations, while Quinto as Spock undergoes changes, both emotionally and physically. It's nuances like these that Abrams excels at, imbuing sentiment and empathy when scenes call for explosions. Alice Eve joins the cast as a vital character, but it's Benedict Cumberbatch who takes center stage as the ambiguous John Harrison. Mainly known for his work as BBC's "Sherlock," Cumberbatch proves to be a formidable villain for the Starfleet and Enterprise. His vindictive drive is apparent in his tactical pursuits, but it's his true motive that may come off (or not) as a familiar surprise. While some may have hoped for another original storyline after the time continuum shift, the film does give a modern update for those who are less acquainted. Filled with more action sequences than can possibly be imagined, "Into Darkness" feels almost more like "Star Wars" than "Star Trek" — an irony in itself since Abrams is set to helm that as well. While he'll most likely not return for another "Trek" sequel, it's thrilling to see how he'll tackle George Lucas' world which is vastly different. Either way, he's set to go 'where no man has gone before.'

Rating: 4 stars

Iron Man 3

Release Date: May 03, 2013  
Runtime: 2 hr. 20 min. 
Director: Shane Black 
Cast: Robert Downey, Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Guy Pearce, Ben Kingsley, Jon Favreau, Rebecca Hall.

As franchises generally go, everything is in excess when it comes to raising the ante. Meaning, more action, more characters, more tech-savvy effects. And that's all in good fun when there's little else to be had – no qualms or expectations to undermine the enjoyment. But when it comes to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, we've grown accustomed to a certain degree of ingenuity that derives from back-to-back successions, the last of which was "The Avengers" that achieved the highly implausible feat. With such indulgent presumptions, it was only a matter of time before reality set in, and with it, the unfamiliar ache of actually being letdown. For its inaugural kickoff, "Iron Man 3" is, by all definitions, a summer blockbuster, marking the return of Tony Stark who's as beloved as the star who portrays him. Armed with his wits and silver tongue, Robert Downey Jr. is undeniably the best thing about the series, never knowing what he'll do or think of next. But what makes a great hero is the adversary who challenges him, and unfortunately for Iron Man, the Mandarin just isn't one of them. While seemingly represented as a terrorist in the trailer, the film's interpretation is far from conjectured. What could have been the ultimate villain is facetiously altered, resulting in a punch line that feels ill-conceived and decidedly cheesy. The same goes for the bulk of the movie which plays more like a comedy, even during the trying times when Stark grapples with mental anxiety – the result from New York. What little reference to "The Avengers" seems forced at best, the film being more interested in the man inside the suit than the actual superhero. Resultantly, Iron Man himself is frequently MIA, save for the barrage of soldiers that cap off the epic battle scene. Given that this is Shane Black's only second feature, it might have helped if he had followed the template of Jon Favreau's more closely, rather than wander off the beaten path in hopes of transformation. Instead, "Iron Man 3," personally, feels to be the weakest of the bunch, overblown and comical to the point of being flippant. But with all said and done, this is only the beginning of 'Phase 2.' If Iron Man can't do it, maybe Thor will.

Rating: 2½ stars

Oblivion

Release Date: Apr 19, 2013 
Runtime: 2 hr. 5 min.
Director: Joseph Kosinski 
Cast: Tom Cruise, Olga Kurylenko, Morgan Freeman, Andrea Riseborough, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Melissa Leo.

2013 is briskly shaping up to be the year of sci-fi, with a hefty slate of films geared up in imminent fashion. Thus it only seems fitting that the first to climb on deck is "Oblivion," Joseph Kosinski's homage of sorts to the inveterate genre. Taking place in the year 2077, we open on a desolate Earth, sixty years after an alien invasion nearly wipes out mankind. The remaining inhabitants, Tech #49 and communications officer Victoria, work as drone maintenance in pursuance of providing resources to continue civilization. It's here that the story breaks ground in establishing a breathtaking world, with impressive vistas and ravaged landmarks that are instantly recognizable. Kosinski's eye for aesthetics is obviously simple, through his sleek design and immaculate structures — much like his approach to "Tron: Legacy." So where the film falters is certainly not by its looks, as it's what's in the inside that calls for closer observation. "Oblivion" is seemingly enthralling at first, as the trailer leaves more to the imagination than the bare premise. But it takes time to really determine where it's heading, as the buildup is deliberately measured over the course of two hours. And while the story itself is an original by the director, one can't help but notice the similarities it shares with many sci-fi films before it, including, oddly enough, Pixar's "Wall-E." That said, the foreshadowed twist is disappointing in terms of creativity, as it's this overused escape route that depreciates the plot line. Still, there are some redeeming qualities that keep it afloat — the music, for one, playing a key role. As a way of emulating Daft Punk and their personal spin on "Tron: Legacy," Kosinski enlists the help of French group M83 to compose the tracks, making for a parallel but subdued tonality. Additionally, Tom Cruise slips comfortably back into his superstar persona, playing the vulnerable but persistent Jack Harper. Morgan Freeman, however, is mostly forgotten, as his screen time is equivalent to no more than a cameo. In any event, "Oblivion" is best enjoyed for its beauty and that alone because once "Star Trek Into Darkness" arrives, it will only be a distant memory.

Rating: 2½ stars

Trance

Release Date: Apr 05, 2013 
Runtime: 1 hr. 41 min. 
Director: Danny Boyle 
Cast: James McAvoy, Vincent Cassel, Rosario Dawson, Danny Sapani, Tuppence Middleton.

It was a mere three years ago that Christopher Nolan took us inside the confines of the mind, probing dreams and their intricate workings like never seen before. Now director Danny Boyle takes us deeper into the psyche, eliciting memories and fears within a visceral landscape. James McAvoy stars as Simon, a fine arts auctioneer turned novice art thief. After a heist goes wrong resulting in inadvertent amnesia, he is forced into treatments of hynotheraphy with the beautiful Elizabeth Lamb (Dawson) to recover his memories. But as Simon goes under to reassemble the broken pieces, he finds that not everything – and everyone – are entirely what they seem. While initially a crime thriller with psychological elements, "Trance" is much more than it actually leads us to believe. Interwoven in compulsion and deceitful misdirection, the film's many layers are what keep it unpredictable, even when you think you've had it all figured out. It's with Boyle's impeccable guidance that the film really comes alive, producing sharp images with vivid colors in successive intercuts. Ergo it's sometimes difficult to ascertain reality from fantasy, it's another clever ruse to distract the audience from peeling back the layers. Furthermore, excellent performances are turned in by the cast. Vincent Cassel playing the suave villain that you're unsure of whether to hate, and Rosario Dawson playing the female protagonist with an ulterior agenda. While "Trance" doesn't have the same urgency or tension as his last two films, Boyle presents a techno thriller that entices, both mentally and visually. 

Rating: 4 stars

G.I. Joe: Retaliation

Release Date: Mar 28, 2013  
Runtime: 1 hr. 39 min. 
Director: Jon M. Chu 
Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Channing Tatum, Adrianne Palicki, D.J. Cotrona, Lee Byung Hun, Jonathan Pryce, Ray Park, Bruce Willis.

Sequels are typically excuses for profitable second chances. Even for those as trivial as action figure heroes bred back in the 60's. But is it still a sequel if the main cast is essentially obliterated? That's for us to deduce and, honestly, not care about. "G.I. Joe" gets the evasive makeover with a new director and cast, sustaining few characters while dispatching the rest. Adding to the group is Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, who apparently has joined every franchise out there within arm's reach. Continuing from the conclusion of "Rise of Cobra," "Retaliation" is, for all intents and purposes, a sequel. Sticking to the same foolproof formula of explosions and gunfights, it's a no brainer when it comes to full-fledged action over any given substance. The icing on the cake is the array of ninjas, high-flying and deadly as any kid's fantasy. Yet through it all, the plot seems more lackadaisical than the first, feeling disjointed and cheesier than already could be imagined. Sure, "Cobra" was no award-winner in its quest for world domination, but it was entertaining to say the least and fun in a blameless sort of way. "Retaliation," alternatively, seems vexing at times, trying too hard to be contemporary in its wit and humor. And despite the commemorative introduction of the infamous Cobra Commander, his actual presence is minimal during the hostile takeover. Most will argue that this is a movie designed virtually for the kid at heart, not to be taken seriously because, hey, it's cool. But given the track record of recent Hasbro productions, I'd rather take my chances with the next "Transformers" sequel.

Rating: 2 stars

 

Oz the Great and Powerful

Release Date: Mar 08, 2013  
Runtime: 2 hr. 10 min. 
Director: Sam Raimi 
Cast: James Franco, Mila Kunis, Rachel Weisz, Michelle Williams, Zach Braff.

Con man and monkey and witches, oh my! In Sam Raimi's colorful re-envisioning of a childhood classic, we return to the wondrous Land of Oz and its curious inhabitants. Set before the time of Dorothy and her beloved Toto, "Oz" tells the story of the prophesied wizard and his battle against the Wicked Witch of the West. Starring James Franco in the role of the titular Oz, we learn of his early beginnings as a showy con artist and magician, and how he came to be the ruler of the Emerald City. Franco, fortuitously, seems to be the right choice for this role, as his intelligence and laid back attitude go hand in hand to project a likable character. Opposite his leading ladies he balances their persona with confidant airiness, whether it's the malevolent Rachel Weisz or effervescent Michelle Williams. Mila Kunis, on the other hand, seems misfit for her role, perhaps too young and less punchy than one would hope. It's the two animated characters, Finley and China Girl, who provide a sense of magical humor, a component that's necessary to inhabit a world that's overly embellished with special effects. Vibrant and cartoonish, the film is a stark contrast to the 1939 picture when technology was more modest and not nearly as advanced. But fans of the original can rest assure. Raimi gives plenty of nods to the timeless classic through referential imagery, nostalgia playing the key role here of mediator. If anything, "Oz The Great and Powerful" is more of a solo adventure all on its own, tantalizing for the kids and entertaining for the adults. With the start of "Alice in Wonderland" and last year's "Snow White and the Huntsman," the trend of retold fairy tales will go far beyond the yellow brick road. Rumor has it, "Beauty and the Beast" may take the leap next.

Rating: 3½ stars