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

Gravity

Release Date: Oct 04, 2013
Runtime: 1 hr. 31 min. 
Director: Alfonso Cuarón 
Cast: Sandra Bullock, George Clooney.

Space. Infinite...awe-inspiring...and utterly terrifying. It's the fabric to Alfonso Cuarón's highest achievement yet, and one of the most ground-breaking films in cinematic history. Known for his unique dexterity of single-shot sequences, Cuarón delivers another stunning masterpiece that defies the laws of physics. The first 10 minutes alone will leave you breathless with sweeping views of Earth followed by heart-pounding suspense. The singularity of perspectives, moving in and behind the helmet glass, is truly remarkable – fully immersing you in the environment as well as the mindset. Sandra Bullock gives a phenomenal performance as first time mission specialist, Ryan Stone. Her vulnerability and fears are captured in range, whether careening through space or confined in a capsule. Using visual metaphors to embody humans' resilience and will for survival, Cuarón sheds new light into the blackness of space and depths of despair. The cinematography is one to be savored, further glorified in IMAX and even 3D. Accompanied by a moving score by Steven Price, each scene is as enrapturing as the first and seemingly tangible. Though Cuarón has only directed a handful of films, "Gravity" may just be the push he needs to get his Oscar nomination. Til then, experience space like you've never experienced it before.

Rating: 5 stars

Don Jon

Release Date: Sep 27, 2013  
Runtime: 1 hr. 29 min. 
Director: Joseph Gordon-Levitt 
Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Scarlett Johansson, Julianne Moore, Tony Danza.

Sex, love...or something like that. Marking the directorial debut of Joseph Gordon-Levitt is a (not so) romantic comedy about relationships and its abject complexities. JGL stars as Jon Martello, a womanizer and church goer who's addicted to porn. When the woman of his dreams catches his eye, his once orderly life gets thrown into disarray. Having starred in a variety of films much to critical acclaim, Gordon-Levitt proves again his prowess as a skillful chameleon. Going full-on guido for the role, and convincingly so, he plays a dislikable character who must mend his ways. Stepping behind the camera, he seems like any seasoned pro, showing off his artistic flair and knack for creativity. The interjection of scenes with bursts of erotica is visually stimulating and striking, if not somewhat overpowering. That being said, the repetition of frames can get dull at times, though it does lay the framework for which the story aligns. Humor is key to any good relationship and "Don Jon" is clearly no exception. Highly entertaining and intermittently relatable, it's a non-stop riot, especially in the woes of dating. While the film objectifies sex and fixates on stereotypes, the satirical nature is key in keeping it leveled. Bringing freshness to an industry overrun with veterans, the career path looks bright for this rising, young director.

Rating: 3½ stars

The World's End

Release Date: Aug 23, 2013 
Runtime: 1 hr. 49 min. 
Director: Edgar Wright 
Cast: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Paddy Considine, Martin Freeman, Eddie Marsan.

They say old habits die hard and for a group of five friends it may just be their demise. Marking the conclusion to the "Three Flavours Cornetto" trilogy is "The World's End," a buddy comedy with an extraterrestrial twist. Reuniting Pegg and Frost alongside director Edgar Wright, it's a rousing good time for the comedically bonded trio. Pegg leads the pack as Gary King, a recovering alcoholic still living in the past. Ever longing for the elusive 'Golden Mile' – 12 pubs, 1 night – he gathers up his old gang to finish the feat. Joining his quest is a handful of British actors, many of whom starred in previous collaborations. Comparable to a high school reunion, it's fun while it lasts until disillusionment kicks in. The story itself is predominantly entertaining, mixing intoxication with 'robots' in a bizarre amalgamation. It's this offbeat humor that makes it wildly distinctive, even when the ending feels long and strangely concocted. The bromance between Pegg and Frost is incontestable as they've faced more trials and tribulations in any given situation. From zombies in "Shaun of the Dead" to cops in "Hot Fuzz," there's no shortage of satires that these guys can't handle. Though this may be the end to one enjoyable series, we can assume they'll be back, one pub or another.

Rating: 3½ stars

Elysium

Release Date: Aug 09, 2013
Runtime: 1 hr. 49 min. 
Director: Neill Blomkamp 
Cast: Matt Damon, Alice Braga, Jodie Foster, Sharlto Copley, William Fichtner, Diego Luna.

Gone are the days of a utopian future, where teleportation and hovercrafts are a commonplace luxury. Welcome instead to widespread poverty, where only wealth buys you refuge and a ticket to salvation. From the director of "District 9" comes a grim look at society, and the division that befalls the citizens who inhabit it. Matt Damon stars as ex-con/industrial worker Max Da Costa, living amongst the poor left on decrepit Earth. When an accident leaves him debilitated and at death's door, his only hope lies in Elysium, a haven a world apart. Following the success of his first feature film, Blomkamp attempts to repeat it again, in this smart sci-fi thriller that's emboldened with symbolism. Examining the caste system between the rich and the poor, it's another example of his proficiency in cultural relevance. But while the idea is sound and duly enlightened, the execution is less so in eliciting excitement. Moving languidly with buildup and interspersed with violence, the film feels devoid of tension or compassion found in "District 9." The characters, for one, are mostly disposable, neither giving nor deserving of any real-life empathy. Jodie Foster, in particular, is a questionable enigma, with an accent that's suggestive of an identity disorder. And though Damon is admissible as the anti-hero, it's Sharlto Copley that revels in spotlight glory. Going from meek to sinister at the flip of a switch, it's interesting to see what he'll do next in Spike Lee's "Old Boy." With a handful of sci-fi and dystopia behind us, it's hard to imagine what our true future will hold. For now, here's to wishful thinking.

Rating: 2½ 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

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

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