Snowpiercer

Release Date: Jun 27, 2014 
Runtime: 2 hr. 6 min.  
Director: Bong Joon-Ho 
Cast: Chris Evans, Song Kang-Ho, Go Ah-Sung, Jamie Bell, John Hurt, Tilda Swinton, Octavia Spencer. 

Since the year 2014, Earth has entered a perpetual ice age, leaving its last inhabitants confined aboard a moving bullet train. This is the "Snowpiercer," the last salvation of man, where class systems hinge on the cusp of revolution. Helmed by Bong Joon-Ho, the acclaimed director of "The Host," comes another visionary examination of human survival. Acting as an adaptation of the French graphic novel, "Le Transperceneige," the film is richly nestled in a post-apocalyptic world. The story begins at the apex of an imminent uprising, as it follows the coalition of the 'tail end' led by Chris Evans. Constrained by narrow passageways and darkly shadowed spaces, Bong moves with precision in establishing an inhospitable environment. Each scene is handsomely crafted with minimalistic flair, as it gradually transforms with every step of the train. The contrasts between the rich and the poor are startlingly accentuated, through depths of colors and shifts of light. On the contrary, the plot itself is not as artfully developed, as back stories are limited or mostly forgotten. This prevents an empathetic link to any of the survivors, leaving a wayward feeling of loss and incompletion. Still, a touch of humanity exists through spoken language barriers, as Kang-Ho and Evans struggle to work together. "Snowpiercer" is anything but a standard sci-fi feature, as it deals with the morals, repercussions, and politics behind human nature. While it has its flaws, the film is a reasonable take on the future, though hopefully not as bleak or entirely frigid.

Rating: 3½ stars

Edge of Tomorrow

Release Date: Jun 06, 2014
Runtime: 1 hr. 53 min.
Director: Doug Liman 
Cast: Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt, Bill Paxton, Brendan Gleeson.

In a torrent of sequels and reboots, it's an oddity to find a standalone worth keenly pursuing, coupled with a Tom Cruise actioner that is different and inventive. But "Edge of Tomorrow" is an exhilarating joyride, and a bigger surprise than ever anticipated. Based on the Japanese light novel, "All You Need Is Kill," the story revolves around a war between the humans and an alien species called 'Mimics.' Tom Cruise stars as Major William Cage, a timid, military spokesperson forced to partake in the invasion. After he dies quickly in his first bout of battle, he inexplicably reawakens the day before, again...and again. It's a concept reminiscent of countless movies past, with repeated calamities resulting in varying outcomes. But whereas repetition can typically be an undermining factor, Liman creates a sharp sci-fi thriller that's thoroughly engaging. Cruise gets credit for evolving his character, from being cowardly to fearless, as we've all come to know him. Each 'reset' is unique in its ramifications, oftentimes humorous and abrupt to offset the rhythm. The fast-paced nature is the strength of the film, as it reloads and maneuvers from one take to another. Emily Blunt gives a bad-ass performance in her first action role as the 'Angel of Verdun.' Her camaraderie with Cruise is enjoyable to watch, as they strategize against an enemy who seems impossible to defeat. Unfortunately, the ending falls short of a consummate win, neither effective nor impulsive as it could have been. But that set aside, "Edge of Tomorrow" is hands-down one of the most gratifying films of the summer, and exactly what makes Tom Cruise a bona fide action star.

Rating: 4 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

Godzilla

Release Date: May 16, 2014
Runtime: 2 hr. 3 min. 
Director: Gareth Edwards
Cast: Aaron Johnson, Elizabeth Olsen, Bryan Cranston, Ken Watanabe, David Strathairn.

When you hear "Godzilla," you're likely to picture the 1998 blunder, starring Matthew Broderick and Jean Reno. Hokey, uninspired, and poorly scripted, it was an ill attempt at modernizing the legendary monster. But as the saying goes, "it's better late than never," we finally get an American remake that's worthy of that title. Gareth Edwards directs the latest on the Japanese classic, going back to its roots of epic proportions. Spanning the globe and introducing a new set of creatures, it's already a giant departure from its deficient predecessor. The story, for one, is effectually developed, bringing humans to the forefront inside embattled cityscapes. Bryan Cranston, particularly, carries the emotional heft of the film, as he struggles to expose the truth by any means necessary. His brief screen time is far more compelling than Johnson's leaden performance, who is easily forgettable when not dodging disaster. Yet despite the film's title, Godzilla himself is seldom present – teased repeatedly through dark waters and billows of fog. Edwards strategically builds up the anticipation, so when the beast does appear it's all the more thrilling. His gargantuan size and trademark "atomic breath" are a sight to behold when he's ultimately unleashed. As he comes face to face with his equally massive prey, the slow build and suspension seem reasonably diminished. While diehard fans will eternally find flaws in these remakes, there's no doubt that we've progressed since 1954's "Godzilla." With lookalikes like "Cloverfield" and "Pacific Rim" steadily emerging, it's nice to see the return of the original "King of Monsters."

Rating: 4 stars

Neighbors

Release Date: May 09, 2014 
Runtime: 1 hr. 37 min. 
Director: Nicholas Stoller
Cast: Seth Rogen, Zac Efron, Rose Byrne, Dave Franco, Ike Barinholtz, Christopher Mintz-Plasse.

A married couple learns parenthood isn't what it's cracked out to be when a fraternity moves next door in peaceful suburbia. Starring Seth Rogen, Rose Byrne,  and a douchey Zac Efron, it's survival of the young, high and relentless. Coming from Stoller and Rogen, the humor is as expected – unrestricted and immature for laugh out loud moments. But in between takes are lulls of indifference, not enough character development to justify a side. It eventually becomes a repetitious game of juvenility, not very creative or extreme as could be. However, Efron, for his part, is notably entertaining, having long shed his "High School Musical" days. His frat boy persona seems perfectly fitting when up against a 'grown up' Seth Rogen who feels like the exact opposite. Given a premise of such myriad potential, the film is less than fulfilling compared to Stoller's previous work. But consistent or not, "Neighbors" does manage to have some hilarious forays, one particularly dealing with 'junk' and plaster. If we learn anything from this suburban scuffle, it's love thy neighbor but watch your back.

Rating: 2½ 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 Raid 2: Berandal

Release Date: Mar 28, 2014 
Runtime: 2 hr. 28 min. 
Director: Gareth Evans 
Cast: Iko Uwais, Yayan Ruhian, Arifin Putra, Oka Antara, Tio Pakusadewo.

Two years ago, a little known film single-handedly altered the action landscape, blasting the bars of violence to a whole new level. Pitting fists versus bones in a winner-take-all, subtleties were absolved in favor of brutality. So how do you top one ruthless masterpiece with another? Add more carnage, of course. Gareth Evans returns as writer and director, continuing the story from where we last left off. Rama (Iko Uwais) is now tasked to work undercover and weed out the police corruption from within the crime cartel. But as he learns quickly from prior experiences, there's more on the line than just his life. With greater intensity and brilliant choreography, Evans has really outdone himself the second time around. Edited with an eye of ingenuity, the fights transpire impressively with an air of fluidity. Opposing Rama in a new set of battles are another horde of criminals with no sense of fear. Standouts include siblings "Hammer Girl" and "Baseball Bat Man," names very reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino. With each new scene is a geyser of blood, and no escape from the expo of death. It's the defining trait of this action-packed series, not recommended for the weak and the weary. As for the rest, "Raid 2" falls short of the first film, with less suspense and tension due to its slightly more detailed plot line. What was great about "Redemption" was its single-minded goal, which in turn, confined itself to tight spaces and centralized fights. But duplicating themes is never a strong point of sequels and Evans finds ways to progress on through. With the intention of this being an integrated trilogy, we can expect to see more bloodshed in the foreseeable future. That's bad news for Rama who's taken more beatings than he can sustain.

Rating: 4 stars

Bad Words

Release Date: Mar 28, 2014 
Runtime: 1 hr. 29 min. 
Director: Jason Bateman 
Cast: Jason Bateman, Kathryn Hahn, Allison Janney, Ben Falcone, Rachael Harris.

If you look up the word "a**hole," chances are you'd see a photo of Guy Trilby, Bateman's latest incarnation of brash cynicism. Armed with an acid tongue and zero inhibition, his directorial debut takes front and center stage...at a national spelling bee. We've seen Bateman as the nice guy, as well as the bad guy, but where he excels best is predominantly the latter. Dropping more profanities than should ever be in the presence of a child, it's his apathetic view that brings out the hilarity. Appearing as a 40-year-old competitor, the film has no actual beginning, heading straight into the first event at the outcry of parents. Subsequently, any sort of character backstory is left astray, leaving only a mild curiosity as to Trilby's personal motives. As he pummels and crushes the hearts of little children, it's hard to find sympathy in his egomaniacal conquest. But if there's anyone that can break through that cold exterior, it's Chaitanya Chopra played by Rohan Chand. Together, they develop the most unlikely of friendships, sharing a playful dynamic that establishes the film. Chand's ability to shrug off the ridicule, and even match the wits of Bateman, is more than enough to keep the rapport entertaining. While "Bad Words" may not be the boldest of comedies, it's a step in the right direction for the newbie director.

Rating: 3 stars

Robocop

Release Date: Feb 12, 2014 
Runtime: 1 hr. 48 min. 
Director: José Padilha 
Cast: Joel Kinnaman, Gary Oldman, Samuel L. Jackson, Abbie Cornish, Michael Keaton, Jackie Earle Haley, Jay Baruchel, Marianne Jean-Baptiste.

The 1980's were an emblem of cutting-edge science fiction – with films such as "The Terminator," "Blade Runner," and of course the mentionable "Robocop." And with all of our modern day updates it was only a matter of time, before another resurrection occurred for a new generation. Enter 2014's next line of defense: armed, locked and loaded...and painted in black. Joel Kinnaman steps into the role made famous by Peter Weller – part human, part machine as the purveyor of justice. As with all bold remakes, comparisons are inescapable, but a willingness to succeed is a progress in itself. José Padilha attempts to do so with his contemporary interpretation: a sleeker, more mobile military machine. Far agile and futuristic than its bulky predecessor, it adheres to Murphy better as a bodily entity. Abundant time is spent on setting up this premise, as he transitions from one physical outlet to another. But as a result, it takes time away from the original objective of the film, carrying out the law instead of confined to a laboratory. With that, it becomes an origin story by default, but a mundane and lethargic one at that. The editing is a drawback to the efficacy of the film, composing of awkward transitions and shaky camera movements. It doesn't help that Kinnaman is stoic as a human as he is a robot, lacking the emotional justification of Murphy/Robocop's actions. Thankfully Oldman and Keaton bring a nice balance to the mix, each with opposing views on morality. And then there's Samuel L. Jackson with his incessant yelling, always tried and true. Though this "Robocop" will ever be deemed a remake, at the end of the day it's about the individuality of the film and its ability to withstand the present. Whether it's new and improved will be anybody's call.

Rating: 3 stars

The LEGO Movie

Release Date: Feb 07, 2014 
Runtime: 1 hr. 35 min. 
Director: Phil Lord, Christopher Miller 
Cast: Chris Pratt, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett, Will Ferrell, Morgan Freeman, Liam Neeson.

Back when "The LEGO Movie" was first announced, the whole idea sounded absurd. The prospect of a film based entirely on toy blocks seemed more like a marketing ploy than anything else. Yet lo and behold, if they can dream it, they can build it — and surprisingly enough, it's a movie worth seeing. From the writers that brought us "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs," comes a quirky new adventure set in the intricate realm of LEGO's. Voice-led by Chris Pratt and a handful of stars, it's an elevated take on a childhood classic. Emmet, played by Pratt, is an everyday construction worker, ordinary and faceless to all those around him. But when a prophecy calls upon a "Special" to thwart the evil doings of the "Kragle," it's up to him to rise to the challenge and go from zero to hero. At first glance, it may seem like an average underdog tale, a rehash of morals and conventional values. But residing deeper is a story much more intellectual than that, as ingeniously clever and creative as that of "Toy Story." Through its rigid movements and constructed environments, the film embraces the versatility of its star, in this case the LEGO piece. The animation is unique in that very sense and stirs up the nostalgia of being a kid all over again. What's more are the colorful characters that inhabit the world, from Batman to Bad Cop/Good Cop to "1980's Space Astronaut Guy." They really validate the limitlessness of it all when it comes to imagination, particularly in line with the climax that will be left unsaid. While some scenes can come off as theatrical and divergent in tone, "The LEGO Movie" is a film that's truly built for all ages. With a sequel already in the works and positive box office results, there will be plenty of more chances to recapture our youth.

Rating: 4 stars

The Wolf of Wall Street

Release Date: Dec 25, 2013 
Runtime: 2 hr. 59 min. 
Director: Martin Scorsese 
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Jonah Hill, Kyle Chandler, Jean Dujardin, Matthew McConaughey.

Money may not buy you love but it sure can buy you a heck of a lot of other things, as seen here in "The Wolf of Wall Street," the latest collaboration between Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio. Baring semblance to "Boiler Room," which was inspired by the same events, the film focuses on Jordan Belfort, an American stockbroker convicted of fraudulence. DiCaprio plays Belfort with impeccable arrogancy, commonly breaking the fourth wall to speak of his extravagance. Whether cavorting with prostitutes or in a drug-induced coma, his apathy towards wealth is entertaining, if oddly compelling. It's when the partying gets repetitious that the limelight fades away, revealing the repugnancies of his misdeeds and others out there like him. Scorsese bears no qualms in throwing it all out there, a masterful composition of obscenities – 506 to be exact. "The Wolf of Wall Street" is loud, belligerent and excessive, much like any power-hungry mogul, and for that it's indifferent of how obnoxious it can be. Yet the audacity of it all is the real reason for its allurement, demanding undivided attention til the last forsaken minute. Clocking in at three hours, it's taxing to say the least, with a bloated plot line that just as easily could've been two. But Wall Street takes no weaklings as neither does Scorsese. It's go big or go home – preferably with some money.

Rating: 4 stars

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

Release Date: Dec 25, 2013 
Runtime: 1 hr. 54 min. 
Director: Ben Stiller 
Cast: Ben Stiller, Kristen Wiig, Patton Oswalt, Shirley MacLaine, Adam Scott, Sean Penn.

Sometimes the smallest of adventures entail the greatest leaps of faith, and for "Walter Mitty," it's all about taking the plunge. Directed by and starring Ben Stiller in the role, it's a loose adaptation of the short story by James Thurber. When we first meet Mitty, he's a habitual daydreamer, fantasizing about ventures of heroic feat. But when his job at Life magazine nears to an imminent end, it's up to him to salvage their last issue at the risk of his wariness. A story about taking chances and living life to the fullest, it's an adage we all strive by in our everyday existence. Augmented by picturesque backdrops and artful motifs, the film's an unexpected turn for Stiller as director. As someone who's mainly focused on outlandish comedies, it's an experimental gamble that graciously pays off. As a result, it's less about the whimsy than having a positive sendoff, which is further enhanced by a memorable soundtrack. That's not to say the film is free from adversities, as it slows and simmers when it's not indulging in fantasies. Kristen Wiig's character lacks any form of substance, primarily standing in as the love interest of our protagonist. Though Stiller's Mitty is no stretch for the actor, he still encompasses the qualities that make him relatable. As we follow him on his quest for self-confidence, it's when we discover our own need to break free from the monotony. Wiig's character sums it best by saying, "life is about courage and going into the unknown." In time, Mitty does learn to let go and explore his potential, giving us a feel good movie that's as simple as that.

Rating: 3½ stars