Oscar Thoughts / Predictions 2021

Oscar Thoughts / Predictions 2021


 We're finally here! It feels in some ways like years since it's been an Oscar (remember Parasite?) But yet it's only 2-2.5 months later than it usually is.  It feels some better stuff may have been held off on, but,   there was some goodness. Just the same movies across categories too hmm hey at least it made it easier to type all this...

Best Picture

• The Father
• Judas and the Black Messiah
• Mank
• Minari
• Nomadland
• Promising Young Woman
• Sound of Metal
• The Trial of the Chicago 7”

Who Will Win: With so many of the same movies it can be tough as that makes it almost equal so things could go to almost any. However, undercard reports seem to  indicate that some top choices are Nomadland, Promising Young Woman, and Mank with Minari and Sound Of Metal not far behind. Moreso first three than latter 2, but.... I think it's a Nomadland vs Promising Young Woman overall. 

Who Should Win: Personally? Judas and the Black Messiah or Minari with maybe Promising Young Woman. The under appreciated! Maybe a miracle can happen. 

Best Director

• David Fincher, Mank
• Lee Isaac Chung, Minari
• Chloé Zhao, Nomadland
• Emerald Fennell, Promising Young Woman
• Thomas Vinterberg, Another Round

Who Will Win: Here's a circumstance where Nomadland has even more of a clear chance especially considering who Chloe Zhao is for demographics . However, feeling Fincher is a classic type of pick old school Hollywood. 

Who Should Win: Would not be wrong with Fincher or Zhao, or Fennell. 

Best Actor

• Anthony Hopkins, The Father
• Gary Oldman, Mank
• Steven Yeun, Minari
• Riz Ahmed, Sound of Metal
• Chadwick Boseman, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom

Who Will Win: There was many wins in the undercards of Boseman posthumously. I can see it happen in a Ledger style move. His year 2020. However,  some other close picks I would say almost any of the others with a near tie of Hopkins and Ahmed. 

Who Should Win: I wouldn't be opposed to Boseman either but raw talent I'd have to go with Ahmed  or Oldman I would say. 

Best Actress

• Andra Day, The United States vs. Billie Holiday
• Vanessa Kirby, Pieces of a Woman
• Frances McDormand, Nomadland
• Carey Mulligan, Promising Young Woman
• Viola Davis, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom

Who Will Win: This is a bit harder to predict but Davis may ride Boseman's wave. Could also see Andra Day or Carey Mulligan, thaere's a top 3. McDormand too although undercard has forgotten her.

Who Should Win: Personally, I would go with Carey Mulligan. Please! 

Best Supporting Actor

• Sacha Baron Cohen, The Trial of the Chicago 7
• Daniel Kaluuya, Judas and the Black Messiah
• Leslie Odom Jr., One Night in Miami
• Paul Raci, Sound of Metal
• Lakeith Stanfield, Judas and the Black Messiah

Who Will Win: This is a bit more unpredictable but Judas is quantity wise so either Stanfield or Kaluuya. Maybe Raci too, possible.  Others less likely but maybe dark horse picks.

Who Should Win: Kaluuya, by far. Incredible. Otherwise I'd actually go with Raci too or potentially the novelty of seeing Sacha Baron Cohen win here while others win elewhere. 

Best Supporting Actress

• Maria Bakalova, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm
• Glenn Close, Hillbilly Elegy
• Olivia Colman,  The Father
• Amanda Seyfried, Mank
• Yuh-Jung Youn, Minari

Who Will Win: The Academy loves Colman so could see her get that . Yet also , Baklova and Youn have been surprising niche picks from undercircuit. 

Who Should Win: Baklova plz memes lol! But would be happy with most of these. 

Best Original Screenplay

• Judas and the Black Messiah
• Minari  
• Promising Young Woman
• Sound of Metal
• The Trial of the Chicago 7

Who Will Win: This is where Minari wins for sure it feels that vibe. 

Who Should Win: This is where Judas can win please if not elsewhere. Or Promising Young Woman, same case I guess. 

Best Adapted Screenplay

• The Father
• Nomadland
• Borat Subsequent Moviefilm
• One Night In Miami
• The White Tiger

Who Will Win: Seems like a spot for Nomadland to get something too but the Farther or Borat 2 could pick up here. Maybe Miami shock. 

Who Should Win:  Honestly, the Father for its structure but Borat 2 for the memes. 

Best Animated Feature

• Onward
• Over the Moon
• A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon
• Soul
• Wolfwalkers

Who Will Win: Soul, without a doubt. Good Pixar is good Pixar. Sometimes something like Wolfwalkers might have some odds. 

Who Should Win:  Soul! Or Onward! Disney forever! 

Best Visual Effects

• Love and Monsters
• The Midnight Sky
• Mulan
• The One and Only Ivan
• Tenet

Who Will Win:  I could see this being Tenet's token pick or something dumb like Midnight Sky or Mulan knowing the Academy.

Who Should Win:  Tenet, for a token pick. Yet also Love and Monsters for being the best thing on here with cool creatures or whatever. 

Best Production Design

• The Father
• Mank
• Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
• News of the World
• Tenet

Who Will Win: Mank by far due to old school Hollywood. However, Father / May Rainey tight play adaptions.  Dark horse Tenet  if doesn't get elsewhere

Who Should Win:  Tenet sure why not or Mank. 

Best Costume Design

• Emma
• Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
• Mank
• Mulan
• Pinocchio

Who Will Win: Hard to say, no comment really but potentially the historical Emma or Mank or Ma Rainey. 

Who Should Win:  Mulan it'd be spicy. 

Best Score

• Da 5 Bloods
• Mank
• Minari
• News of the World
• Soul

Who Will Win: Can see this going to Soul or Minari. 

Who Should Win:  DA 5 BLOODS BECAUSE IT WAS MOVIE OF THE YEAR THAT DIDN'T WIN AT ALL GRRRRRR CMON HONORARY . Soul feels groovy too Trent... 
 

We'll see what happens!

Godzilla Vs. Kong Review

Godzilla Vs. Kong

Director: Adam Wingard
Cast Headliners: Rebecca Hall, Alexander Skarsgard, Millie Bobby Brown, Julian Dennison, Brian Tyree Henry, Demian Bichir
Original Release Date : March 26th , 2021 (International Markets), March 31st, 2021(USA / HBOMax app) 

(Back again! With yet another WB movie causing this much financial success and good times in big screens, it felt like a notable reason. These are “Big” movies and that's what KevViews always has and always will be about....and sometimes that's a number of things, but, these important blockbusters are on there! Anyways).

Crossovers are a ton of fun. You have one set of characters who's history you know meeting another. If one has seen both then there's a special feeling of the audience having an attachment to a character but the friends and or foes meeting for the first time.   When those characters are the giant laser lizard king of monsters Godzilla and the king of all kongs King Kong it's gonna be a pretty epic time no matter what. This new Godzilla vs. Kong film is not the first time these two titans have faced off, but it is the first time it has been done pretty darn well. 

The film picks up some time but seemingly not that long after the events of 2019's Godzilla “American / WB Legendary Monsterverse # 2”: King Of Monsters. The past movies are not required movies by any means (Because how much subtlety or lack of enjoyment could there be for giant monsters duking it out?) but it does help to have caught up on the franchise so far for certain references and cameos. Truly both Godzilla has gone through a “character arc” with Kong's moreso happening in this movie. 

         For the most part the movie blends the plots of the two creatures / factions quite well with each other.  In a very different and controller version of Skull Island, King Kong is monitored by a team including scientist Dr. Ilene Andrews (Rebecca Hall) and the last living local Skull Islander native deaf young girl Jia(Kaylee Hottle) who's condition makes her not fear this greatest ape. Elsewhere Apex Cybernetics employee and podcaster / conspiracy theorist Bernie Haye (Brian Tyree Henry) believes something mysterious is up with his employer which is proven true when the previously thought to have been redeemed / heroic Godzilla emerges from the depths to massacre Apex facilities for whatever reason.  

          Each plot brings in a gaggle of supporting human characters to varying degrees of charm. Hall's Andrews is nothing much to speak of despite her knowledge but Hottle's Jia gives the movie a ton of heart with her relationship (almost friendship, believe it or not ) with Kong.  They're joined by others on a mission given by charismatic Apex CEO Walter Simmons(Demian Bichir, a bit hammy)  and the connections-barely alluded-to-at-all son of scientist from past  films' Ren Serizawa (Shun Oguri)  to find a mysterious energy source in the “Hollow Earth”. 

     In a way “Team Kong” also includes Hollow Earth expert Dr. Nathan Lind (Alexander Skarsgard) who kind of fills that classically cocky scientist / mission leader role if a bit generic / lame (on purpose?) at times.  Same thoughts can also be said of menacing daughter of CEO Maia Simmons(Elza Gonzalez).  “Team Godzilla” humans are the likes of those returning from the last movie of in teen girl  Madison Russell (Millie Bobby Brown) and newcomer friend Josh Valentine( Julian Dennison of Deadpool 2 / The Christmas Chronicles 2 fame) tagging along with Bernie as they investigate various science facilities finding out about Godzilla's newfound anger. This “teen squad” plot is not the best part of the movie and has some lame quips between the good ones(and Bobby Brown's heroism) and slowdowns from the  monster mania.  Previous film's human protagonist Dr.Mark Russell(Kyle Chandler) barely says anything at all who along with some other human Monarc plot elements appears to have been lost to the cutting room floor. 

       Because enough about human science drama what audiences want is big titan action. And it oh so gets there! But before the discussion begins of how “cool”  / “awesome” things can look, first a comment on how “beautiful” they can look. The Kong plot's quest into the Hollow Earth has some truly beautiful and surreal scenes from icy Antarctica to fantastical realms of floating rocks and other creatures. It feels like a true Kong movie plot on steroids for if a journey into Skull Island was a journey to a pocket universe at the center of the earth. This mystical realm goes hard into things almost out of Lord Of The Rings or other franchises entirely and is a fitting jump of the supernatural that's increased in past films. More than ever these made it worth seeing on the big screen even if this also has a home video HBO Max cross-release.  

    Beyond the serene, where director Adam Wingard excels so much visually is in the giant monster on monster action. These primarily come from multiple Godzilla vs King Kong scenes because of course they do but there's some other cool minor contenders and other surprises within. The movie manages to find ways for the two titans to be on equal footing even if objectively it's obvious Godzilla should win.  Kong , in a further extent of his protagonist-like humanization, employs many tricks and traps and cool moves in their clashes.   The scale of  and moves used in the action is in the realm of “absolutely ridiculous”.  Whether its water-based with naval ships and bombs being thrown around or the neon nighttime Hong Kong bout( where buildings are used like the walls of a WWE arena) there's many jaw-dropping moments. Truly the climax must be seen firsthand for how long it is and what unfolds with things escalating amazingly.  The CGI as a whole looks its best yet aside from a couple of weaker designs in moments (once again, best seen in IMAX vs home video, where safe to).  Some pretty decent (if typical)  music from  Junkie XL adds to the ambiance whether pulse-pounding orchestra pieces or even some  rare synthwave-esque parts (fitting in Hollow Earth or even sunny summertime human scenes fitting of Wingard's retro-style / horror project background ). 

         The good is good with the fights making the at times slow burn worth it. No one really comes for the human element anyways and for the most part they're not too bad if a bit cheesy and or typical. Things are really straightforward: Ancient rivals fight for the first time in the modern era and the x-factors of the universe all come together for an epic climax. Fans of the previous films must see this and even just people who want big and admittedly dumb fun.  Who knows where things lead for the franchise but regardless if things ended anyways they do so in style. 8.5 out of 10 

Top Ten Films, Video Games, and Music Albums Of 2020

Top Ten Films, Video Games, and Music Albums Of 2020

Time to look back at the movies, games, and music highlights of the year.  Thank goodness this year is almost over...what a journey. While the future is unknown and not guaranteed, and it's been a ruckus, there was some great media buried within it..sometimes overwhelmingly so whether in quantity or quality. This was tough to make! Maybe because it was best to stay at home and enjoy.... if next year can truly deliver on what was delayed from this one, oh my. Without further ado:

Top Films Of 2020: 

1 and Movie Of The Year.) Da 5 Bloods (for its impeccable mix of Vietnam flashbacks and a twist filled modern day, incredible Spike Lee direction and acting performances, laughs, and actions....RIP Chadwick Boseman truly fits with the plot it will always be hard for us to move on... edge of your seat the whole time) 

2.) Soul (For showing Pixar still knows how to make us feel...and trip out , laugh,  and dance while thinking of the meaning of life) 

3.) I'm Thinking Of Ending Things (As with many on this list, melting our minds with many meta-layers of reality and dark drama with fantastic Jessie Buckley / Jesse Plemmons performances) 

4.) Tenet (For attempting to bring back the blockbuster...and being a great one wherever it's viewed with Christopher Nolan at his nolan-est action)

5.) The Devil All The Time (For managing to squeeze together years of timelines of performances effetively with incredible Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Sebastian Stan and more what a Southern crossover)  

6.) The King Of Staten Island (for making one laugh just as often as it makes one cry with shenangins and surprises along the way with quite a soundtrack...great Pete Davidson, Marisa Tomei, and Bill Burr who between this and Mandalorian proves he should act in more things) 

7.) The Trial Of The Chicago 7 (for having an all star cast lineup and intense drama from Mark Rylance, Sacha Baron Cohen, Eddie Redmayne, Michael Keaton and more)

8.) The Invisible Man (for surprising with the fact that the Universal Monster universe can still have something fresh with scares and electro thrills backed by a stellar Elizabeth Moss take) 

9.) Train To Busan (2) Presents: Peninsula (for being almost as good as the first if not quite there with wild ridiclous set-pieces and emotional feels) 

10.) Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (for bringing a fittingly great two part punch of Chadwick Boseman's final performances as well as those around him in a dark drama with just a bit of music) 

Honorable Mentions #'s 11-13:

11.) The Hunt (for mixing action and laughs in that wonderful bloody/funny type of hybrid along with some crisp direction and smart political points) 

12.) Palm Springs (for actually making a great spin on the Groundhog Day formula with Andy Samberg / Cristin Miloti laughs as well as a fun sunny vibe and surpriseS) 

13.) Borat (2): Subsequent Moviefilm : Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (for existing and the stuns Sacha Baron Cohen was able to pull off with that Tutar daughter haha...timely for the moment)


Overall: In terms of theaters, horrible times so many periods of closing for business or total closures as chains... blockbusters were few and far between. However a paradigm shift occured for the ages with paid home releases or free surprises on Netflix (they make up most this list) , Hulu , Disney Plus, HBO Max etc...it made sense the streaming cold wars went hot. There was so much not listed here that was decent too...at least, if we were bored, we had stuff to watch ...a surprising year indeed. 




Top 10 Games Of 2020:

(0 and Game Of The Future Metaphysical Cultural Moment.) Astro's Playroom(this is a free game pre-installed onto every PS5 that's absolutely incredible for being key at showing the future of technology with the haptic feedback of the controller with charming level design, music, playstation history...it represents what the Sony of tomorrow can do across its short burst...its' highlights are heavenly)

1 and basically Game Of The Year>=.) Ghost of Tsushima (for being nearly perfect with its incredible immersive Japanese open world as well as its intense stance combat and sneaking...with a story packed with twists and feels of its own especially in sidequests. The Assassin's creed japan, red dead redemption japan, everything samurai japan we always wanted...accomplishing nearly all of what all the below was trying to do even better...if typical. But its efforts must be commended !) 

2 but almost tied for Game Of The Year<=.) The Last Of Us Part II (for justifying that yes there should be a sequel to one of the other best games of all time...for its emotional feels, surprising twists amongst perspectives for really the first time since MGS2, intense action setpieces and crafted moments...the pinnacle of cinematic inspired games even if it had its leak drama around story letdowns...almost perfect also where's multiplayer) 

3.) Cyberpunk 2077 (For finally coming out and trying so hard. For its amazing conversations , side quests, and open world options and scope. Yet less so for its bugs on some platforms or some failed expectations...but cant deny its special and distinct...this is for the game it will someday be. ) 

4.) Spider-Man: Miles Morales (for bringing more of a good thing to the next level . For out-Arkhamming the Arkham series' combat and stealth....for christmas vibes and venomized electro moves that seem its past feel like an infant in comparision to the hype, short but sweet) 

5.) Animal Crossing : New Horizons (for giving us an island getwaway in the first dark winter...a place to relax and see friends safely and calmly. For having such a cool live update / holiday plan for its lifetime so far ...and onwards. Endless content the best yet)  

6.) Dreams' full release ( For truly having the most endless content of this whole list. For taking the idea of LittleBigPlanet to a next surreal level...for having any game be possible the best fan made creations on a console to date along with a solid but short story) 

7.) Paper Mario: The Origami King (For almost bringing back the classic gameplay (hey there's occasional partners!) along with hilarious humor , gorgeous visuals, and unique gameplay ideas that work) 

8.) Hades' full release  (for getting right to the gameplay point even if it's from 2018. For creating satisfying room-by-room roguelike gameplay with upgrade surprises. For having a distinct aesthetic of its version of Greek myths). 

9.) Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout (for being free to many people. For mixing royales and 3d platformers / Wipeout obstacle ideas so well. For being addictively simple and bringing fun new content ).   

10.) Immortals: Fenyx Rising ( For wonderfully mixing Zelda BOTW, Greek myths, and a family fun cartoony tone. For even improving on ideas of its peers and being funny along the way . For being beautifully colored in vibe). 

Honorable Mentions # 11-13:

11.) Gears Tactics (for making turn based Gears XCOM work great in a nice simple way. For having a main game level story and cutscenes)

12.) Star Wars Squadrons (For being the best, and only , Star Wars flight focused game in a long time. For being so immersive in VR even with a short but sweet story) 

13.) Final Fantasy VII Remake (For finally coming out , for looking and sounding so amazing. For adding even more than ever and having new possibilities for future parts in terms of storyline) 

Overall: Like many things this faced ruckus in the corona year for events and other delays. It had problems, perhaps related or not, for fan expectations and hype in things competing with crunch for the likes of those like Naughty Dog, CD Projekt RED, and even Square Enix (Avengers...)...there was also the launch of a new console generation too with its own gems mentioned here and otherwise. It felt like the end of one era and the beginning of a new one in many ways...and it mostly ended in some style evne if it was quality over quantity. Sony Sony Sony SONY did so amazing with playstation games one of their finest yet, keep it up them and all. 

(New for this year and onwards in the absence of Facebook Notes):

Top 10 Music Albums Of 2020:

1 and album of the year.) Childish Gambino - 3.15.20 (For sending off a career in style at a surprising moment..funky, feels, deep. Favorite Song:  53.49) 

2.) Lady Gaga - Chromatica  (For being exactly what the fans have wanted best in years electro jams and a orcheastral grandoiseness. Favorite Song: Sine From Above) 

3.) Oliver Tree - Ugly Is Beautiful  (For collecting a career in one place and adding a little more through feels and jams. Favorite Song:  Again and Again) 

4.) Gorillaz - Song Machine Vol.1: Strange Timez (For being a fresh format of release as well as providing a perfect balance of the old and new. Favorite Song: Chalk Tablet Towers)

5.) Run The Jewels - RTJ4 (For having hard hitting beats and lyrical themes for their catchiest and most varied yet. Favorite Song: A Few Words For The Firing Squad (Radiation) 

6.) Mac Miller - Circles ( For being amazing even after he's gone with its dreamy vibes and sadness. Favorite Song: Blue World) 

7.) Donny Benet - Mr.Experience (For being oh so smooth and relaxing between some jams. Favorite Song: One Night In Paradise) 

8.) Thundercat - It Is What It is (For being groov-tastic with incredible bass riffs and funk. Favorite Song: How I Feel) 

9.) Marilyn Manson - WE ARE CHAOS (For mixing old-school fan wants of industrial heaviness / darkness with a bit of his calmer, countryesque modern vibes. Favorite Song: Infinite Darkness) 

10.) Jaden Smith - CTV3: Cool Tape Vol.3  (For being chill , dreamy, and thought-provoking in its simplicity. Favorite Song: Cabin Fever) 

Honorable 11-13: 

11.) Joji - Nectar (For finally releasing and having jams and feels. Favorite Song: Reanimator) 

12.) The Aquabats - Kooky Spooky .... In Stereo  (For finally coming out and being a fan want...for being hilarious and jamming.  Favorite Song Aliens and Monsters!) 

13.) Machine Gun Kelly - Tickets To My Downfall  (For being a surprisingly perfect retro punk tribute. For being oh so catchy. Favorite Song: Bloody Valentine) 

Overall: Amazing one of the best years ever for me at least. Maybe it's because I had more time on my hands to check out the release charts but seriously there was so mcuh... at one point I had a top 56 best out of hundreds more! I think I transformed and matured my music taste this year into a new varied direction...the chiller, the better because we all need to dream.  Now if only concerts will return.... for all this there'll be a win.

Enjoy all and may the new year be a better one at some point, it's gotta! 

Tenet Review

Tenet
Director: Christopher Nolan
Cast Headliners: John David Washington, Robert Pattinson, Elizabeth Debicki, Kenneth Branagh
Original Release Date (It's complicated but we're back!): August 26th Most Worldwide, August 31st Most USA, September 3-4th Even More USA 

(NOTE: Hello, hello, HELLO! I’ve missed doing this and hope everyone’s ok…been a terrible year, eh? Stay safe…hasn’t really been well, theaters in existence for a large portion of the year at all much less new releases…much less new releases of substance. Want some good stuff? Go see Da 5 Bloods or Extraction on Netflix, Palm Springs on Hulu, or The King of Staten Island, Bill and Ted 3, or Train To Busan 2: Peninsula  ..worth the waits. The New Mutants, not the wait. Anyways Well how about this tune in and find out)

    Little did we know when Christopher Nolan’s next project was announced awhile back that it would have so much importance to the film industry as a whole. Tenet doesn’t tread incredibly new ground for the filmmaker as it covers tropes of espionage, action, and time. It represents a return to the major films of our lives when they were more normal. There’s some incredible stuff within that’s even better if one manages to see it on a big screen but yet one can also imagine what it is. Because it’s the Nolan touch in both the best and most typical of ways. 

An exciting, gritty intro that feels right out of something like Nolan’s prior Batman / Dark Knight films introduces us to our world and hero. An unnamed CIA agent known only as “the Protagonist” (John David Washington) takes part in a battle with an apparent terrorist cell in Ukraine in the modern day. The aftermath of this conflict, that was filled with uncertain enemies and allies, is just a small spark beginning a much larger conflict across Earth as well as possibly time and space. 

Therein lies the primary shtick of Tenet’s universe: “Inversion” technology. This mysterious substance or machinery which created it allows objects, people, and more to be on a different time scale than the rest of the world around them. It’s coming from somewhere in the future and means something far more than it appears to be if in fact it can be interpreted as anything at all in this at times confusing vague film. A conflict ensues as the source and plans of this technology is sought out.  Some of the best action and visual spectacle occurs from this unique facet but a but more on that later. 

Our Protagonist meets a wide ensemble (no surprise considering its Nolan) cast of characters in his journey.  A primary ally is the suave and intriguing Neil (Robert Pattinson) who acts as a bit of a handler and strategist for the hero. The performances of both men are great especially when it comes to their comradery with each other. Washington’s Protagonist is a mainly badass tough guy extremely skilled in combat and negotiation but he also has a bit of occasional humorous charm in moments or emotional depth faced with torture or tough choices. This goes nicely with the slightly more subdued Pattinson than has been expected lately who is even more of a comedic “buddy / sidekick” role in the algorithm although he has his fair share of combat aptitude and drama as well.  Smaller parts exist in allies of some regard whether CIA-based or otherwise like fellow field operative Mahir (Himesh Patel), arms dealer Priya (Dimple Kapadia), scientist Laura (Clemence Posey), or soldier commander Ives (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) although aside some solid scripting no one does much other than deliver exposition. Of course, being a Nolan film there’s the token small role Michael Caine-portrayed character of Sir Michael Crosby doing exactly what he does every time he shows up in one of these but it’s a welcome return as ever. 

Aside from the CIA duo a key part of the plot is the complex relationship between arms dealing apparently potentially mastermind of a villain in Andrei Sator (Kenneth Branagh) and his often-separated wife Kat (Elizabeth Debicki). In a classic James Bond-esque the Protagonist finds himself torn between loyalties as he attempts to infiltrate the criminal underworld of both figures. Branagh goes for a bit of a stereotypically hammy Russian performance as Sator but he is definitely often menacing with a slight bit of a melancholy purpose. Debicki gives a solid turn as Kat with her own complex dramas who ends up doing some key things to the path to victory.  The plot is full of plenty of twists and surprises as a whole but especially with these characters.

While of course Nolan films are about characters and drama they’re best at marrying these with exciting sequences relevant the genre they’re attempting. It’s that “Nolan touch” for visuals, action, directing which gives every one of his past films a special feeling of fine craftsmanship unlike most other blockbusters in the medium.  It can be happily said that that artistic touch is present here. There’s incredible directing close and afar, beautiful scenery and cinematography, practical effects, intense action etc. For music, while the presence of usual ally Hans Zimmer is missed, Ludwig Goransson does a fantastic score which veers more into the realms of a dark electronic / sci-fi influence not often seen in Nolan’s works which adds to the unique ominous tone. 

     As mentioned earlier there’s this technology which allows for things to go “backwards in time” instead of forward. Once again it can be said that this tech is never fully or appropriately explained which leads to some narrative or even within-scene confusion as to why things are happening. However, this excuse of a concept does lead to some absolutely incredible visuals and action. Soldiers and vehicles often flip “backwards” in surreally unnatural ways adding excitement and even a bit of terror to every spot it happens.  Buildings explode and re-assemble themselves. Air, water, bullets “suck” themselves back to their origin point. It has an impressively realistic beauty to it amidst the excitement or bewilderment due to that mentioned Nolan skill.  In some ways it’s visual techniques that have been done before but it’s nice to see WB give Nolan the budget to do it in bigger and crazier ways with some seriously crazy if at times non-sensical vague sequences.  One can suppose it’s all supposed to be a bit non-sensical. 

There’s really not much wrong with the film at all which is a welcome return to blockbusters in general not just from Nolan’s trademark bombastically shiny unique style. In moments it’s been done before, has some simple twists seen a mile away, can have some odd dialogue audio mixing, or has it’s time mechanics hurt the brain to think. In most other moments it’s a thrilling gorgeous ride as ever.  8.7 out of 10

Pre-Coronapocalypse Reviews: Onward / The Hunt

(Special note!: well call this the Last Keviews Before The Apocalypse (?) with the theaters closing and movies being delayed...but that question mark is because surely, eventually, things will be back to normal. Not really a way to see this YET but hopefully those home releases are soon and not too pricey...a little briefer on each mashup mania due to the situation)


Onward
Director: Dan Scanlon
Cast Headliners: Tom Holland, Chris Pratt,  Julia Louis-Dreyfuss, Octavia Spencer, Matt Rodriguez
Original Release Date: March 6th, 2020

      Pixar's original CGI animated ideas can often be just as exciting as their more famous sequels and licenses. It's these fresh ideas that gave us the whimsical unique worlds of such things as A Bug's Life, Up, Inside Out, Coco, and more. With sequels seemingly behind them from now on, what's ahead is fresh... and even if Onward is something totally new in a good way it has familiar elements used in good ways.
The world of Onward is a “What if” fairy tale fantasy societies progressed past the time of swords and magic. In a time roughly equivalent to modern day (or perhaps a 1960s/70s/80s/90s idealized  white picket fence retro tone) species such as elves, trolls, sprites, centaurs, and others live in peace and harmony with modern conveniences. This setting is one of the films absolute best highlights visually and conceptually with locations such as “Burger Shire” or castle-shaped skyscrapers mashing up various archetypes.  Magical spells are forgotten but not forever lost.
In this there's the perfectly cast Lightfoot brother duo of younger Ian (Tom Holland) and older Barley(Chris Pratt). Their connection is not always the best as Ian is trying to be cool while Barley is a geeky troublemaker. However in the absence of a late father Wilden(Kyle Bornheimer) they're raised by a caring if possibly overbearing mother Laurel(Julia Louis-Dreyfuss) and her partner cop Officer Bronco (Mel Rodriguez).  One special day gives the boys the chance to bring back at least their father's pants as they race against the sunset of the next day to get the rest of him back in a wacky journey across the city and lands beyond.
This is a movie packed with a ton of heart whether its silly laughs or emotional feels. A great script propels the performances. This is especially true of Holland's ever-shy Ian or Pratt's goofster Barley...they bicker in fun ways and grew in important ones. Anyone who's been a sibling, especially a brother, will totally relate to the vibes. No one else gives anything less than a good job either in the otherwise slightly small supporting cast as both their parents have a mix of laughs and love with Louis-Dreyfuss going through some growth of her own and Rodriguez's Bronco having some of the biggest laughs. There's also the Manticore(Octavia Spencer) who is solid too as a once-hero turned peaceful.
It helps that the movie looks very gorgeous aside the fun mashup of genres. Some of the color details may trend towards generic but everything is fluid. Some fun tropes of fantasy such as Dungeons and Dragons give it a very “RPG” influence which is unique and there's actually some cool exciting action in parts. A folksy soundtrack by  the Danna siblings just mostly gets the job done however its extra memorable when there's rock and roll being used. This is a classic rock lover's movie fitting of an old fantasy album cover.
There's not much else to say with this which is its ups and downs. It's short, snappily feeling and goes just about as expected as one would without going too much further. However that's a great thing with the laughs and charms along the way. 8 out of 10 

(the could not be more different lol..)

The Hunt
Director: Craig Zobel
Cast Headliners: Betty Gilpin, Hilary Swank, many other momentary cameos
Original Release Date: March 13th, 2020

    It's ironic that a film once delayed for its politically and violently controversial content may be one of the last movies people had the chance to see becoming very much a part of the conversation.  However in its defense it pokes fun at all sides involved showcasing perhaps the truest message of all. Really most of all its a simple bloody comedy-horror combo enjoyable in a dumb way.
The stupidly ridiculous premise that's either great or lame because of its context is that a secret society of far left wing rich people “aka the Manorgate” have kidnapped a group of far right wing conservative victims to slaughter in a bit of a battle royale/Hunger Games / the Most Dangerous Game living being slaughter fest. The victims are not given many weapons to defend themselves with in an area that surreal blends the line between what is part of it or not. It appears to be Arkansas or maybe its Vermont or maybe its Eastern Europe...nothing is ever fully explained.
Its sickly satirical tone is helped by the ultra-stereotypical cast that's involved on both factions. There's actually a relatively all-star large ensemble cast. Amongst the “rednecks” is the likes of “Staten Island”(Neighbor's Ike Barinholtz),  “Yoga Pants”(American Horror Story's Emma Roberts),  “Gary”(My Name Is Earl's Ethan Supplee), and more. They're as racist and jerks as can bit but an interesting thing is accomplished by making them sympathetic in the face of their hunters.
On the opposing side are those such as “Richard”(It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia's Glenn Howerton), “Crisis Mike” (A Series Of Unfortunate Events' Usman Ally), and more. The backstories of all the participants are slightly touched on in background scenes but its a good thing that things remain surreal and unexplored. This may also be due to the fact that its a quickly-dying cast on both sides leaving its true heroes and villains unknown.
Those who stand out most are protagonist Crystal(Betty Gilpin) and antagonist Athena(Hillary Swank). Each is remorselessly cold and effective in their own ways. Gilpin has a fierce attitude that manages to have some heart. Swank has a polite exterior which hides a vile heart. Some of their dialogues and fights are actually really good if still in a cheesy way.
“Good in a cheesy way” extends to Zobel's directing. Some objectively cool tricks are tried and land at times but other times there's a low budget feel drowning them out. Action and gore is plentiful with some extreme effects. The level of extreme-ness actually adds to the film's darkly comedic tone and helps it stand out like the likes of Cabin In The Woods and Tucker and Dale Vs Evil.
Those in that mindset will enjoy this film most. Get ready to be both scared and laughing of and at everything around them. It's no masterpiece but its a way to pass the time....while making us think about things in moments. 7.53 out of 10


(See you all someday.... who knows when...)

The Invisible Man Review

The Invisible Man
Director: Leigh Whannell
Cast Headliners: Elizabeth Moss, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, technically others
Original Release Date: February 28th, 2020

  The Invisible Man is interesting when viewed in its content of a dual heritage. On one hand, it's yet another take on the classic H.G Wells idea of one who can become invisible delivered through a bit more of a realistic modern lense. On the other hand it also marks the first Universal Monsters movie post-Dark Universe (their attempted mashup of creatures in the fashionable  sense of the superheroes at the time). This is a film devoid of any connections to a larger horror world which makes it feel very fresh and distinct amidst its typical tropes.
The firstmost unique thing about this reboot is that it places much more emphasis on its main character Cee(Elizabeth Moss) and her situation. A darkly intense opening shows her escape from insane abusive ex-boyfriend Adrian(Oliver Jackson-Cohen). Cee finds relief in her sister Emily(Harriet Dyer) alongside her old friend James(Aldis Hodge) and his daughter Sydney(Storm Reid).
However of course this being a horror, or more accuratelya  sci-fi psychological thriller, peace does not last long. Even with Adrian's apparent death she feels an unseen , invisible presence of him in her life haunting her and manipulating those around her into hate. There's also Adrian's jerk of a  brother Tom(Michael Dorman) who pressures Cee in various ways to maintain the late inventor's fortune.
There are of course thrills and chills but an unique highlight of this piece is the lead performance by Moss as Cee. It deals with darkly important themes considering her state as an abuse survivor haunted by PTSD in addition to literal threads.  One will feel very bad for her with powerful emotional takes. However she has some warmth and momentary humor which eventually evolves into fierceness as she fights back.
Unfortunately the supporting cast is very generic. There's really nothing much of note from the friends and family around her especially with an at times mixed quality of a script. On the more villainous side,  Jackson-Cohen's living scenes as Adrian are few and far between but are menacing enough with Dorman's Tom also making for some uncomfortable drama scenes if a bit hammy.
The film's best on-screen star is the complete absence of one. The titular Invisible Man itself, whoever or whatever it may be, is handled very well. Director Leigh Whannell  crafts some chilling sequences. A variety of moods are used whether atmospheric slow burns(some of the best moments of the film being through subtle things in the background), pulse-pounding action, or yes a few jump scares. His overall direction / cinematography is also effective as well whether in up close dialogue or more sweeping landscape or action shots.  Some of the effects are a bit rough yet also some of the effects are quite fascinating to look at .  A sci-fi-tastic score by Benjamin Wallfisch adds to things from electro beats to chilling, horror-typical sctrings.
There isn't that much more to the film aside what it appears to be on the package but that's a fine thing. The scares are spooky and the drama scares in its own way. It's a long two hour plus burn but by its end it becomes most exciting of all. One has optimistic hope for the rebirth of Universal's monster future if they're all like this. 7.95 out of 10

Triple February Cheese Reviews : Birds Of Prey, Sonic The Hedgehog, Fantasy Island

Triple February Cheese  : Birds Of Prey, Sonic The Hedgehog, Fantasy Island Reviews

With not much of anything going on this Q1 saw several films of similiar quality and in some vengeful ways similiar so to simplify summarize and score  :

Birds Of Prey( and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn:
Director : Cathy Yan
Cast Headliners : Margot Robbie , Ewan McGregor, Jurnee Smollet-Bell, Rosie Perez, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Ella Jay Basco
Original Release Date : February 7th, 2020

   It seems that ties to the past DCEU aren't done just yet nor will be ahead forgetting not only it's lore and characterizations on-screen but also it's trend towards brighter sillier fun. It's also a smart choice for the focus of a spin-off to be Harley Quinn who is so distinct.  As a whole decent if flawed ... Margot Robbie is as humorously insane as ever this time as punk clown Harley bringing  in some of her own quirks and past and she doesn't need anyone else . Her fellow antiheroine peers are a really mixed bag from an alright Smollet-Bell as a suave edgy Black  Canary , MEW as seldom seen yet badass Huntress , with Perez copy Montoya and Basco pickpocket Cain being very stereotypically cheesy. Ewan McGregor's antagonist Roman Sionis / Black Mask varies between flamboyantly insanely evil to the overly hammy kind ...so to does  little more than thug minion Zzsaz ( Chris Messina ) . Director Yan makes some exciting neon soaked action scenes at times however even if not enough powers or hyena or jokes attempted or  hinted at ...silly cheesy fun 7.7 outta 10

Sonic The Hedgehog
Director : Jeff Fowler
Cast Headliners : Ben Schwartz, Jim Carrry, James Marsden
Original Release Date : February 14th, 2020

   Real talk one of the best video game based movies ever despite the questionable existence and delays to be closer to the long running icon. Ben Schwartz is spot on as Sanic even if a bit ridiculously powerful and fast and overly cheesy meme or CGI effects  dropping ( at least he's accurate the whole time). Jim Carrry as villian Dr Robotnik is very good literally moustache twirling evil with some fun writing at times that gets more accurate as he gets more mad and insane. Human elements, including Marsden's cop Tom, are not the good kind of cheesy nor is the basic plot S a whole however it's easy breezy approach is enjoyable  for the fast and or slowmo speed of cameo references for the whole family. 7.8 outta 10

Fantasy Island
Director : Jeff Wadlow
Cast Headliners : Maggie Q, Michael Pena, Michael Rooker , Lucy Hale, arguably no others
Original Release Date : February 14th, 2020

   This attempted reboot of the old television series has almost nothing to do with it aside an admittedally gorgeous tropical setting and wish granting core conceit. Otherwise what's found is one of the worst movies in recent memory that wastes a cool concept on repeated lackluster ideas and scares that aren't even cheesy enough to be fun....and comedy that is scary how fun it isn't . Unlikeable characters, confusing contexts , hollow action , boredom ... it's best not to waste time describing or seeing it.  4.66 outta 10