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JordanRossReviews: Thor: Ragnarok– 7/10 Rating: PG-13 <> How to Watch: Theaters
I greatly enjoy the Marvel movies because of their balance. I've often admired how Marvel Studios has been able to take the seriousness of these fantasy stories and fuse them with the comedy of its characters and situations to find a perfect middle. Some are more serious than others and some more comedic, and you will find fans on either side of the spectrum. Thor: Ragnarok was not balanced. If you're looking for a fun ride than look no further, but if what you're after is an intriguing storyline, serious acting, or even some great battles then look elsewhere.
Speaking of acting, I loved Cate Blanchett as Hela, but the threat of her character and overwhelming power never seemed serious. Obviously you can guess that the heroes will most likely win at the end of the day, but when you make it so blatant it really steals away the threat. When it came to the action I was let down as well. There were the start of some very good scenes, but none of them could stay serious for longer than thirty seconds, if they even managed that long without a one-liner or pokes at superhero tropes. The scenes where we did see the darker and grim side of events felt rushed and after thoughts, almost as if the director had to put them in, but only to get back to the humor. Once I found out Taika Waititi was the director, whose previous work includes What We Do in the Shadows it made a little more sense. It truly felt like one big joke, but if you like your comedy you'll probably like this movie. If you're a hardcore nerd who seriously debates who would win in a fight between Thor and Hulk, don't get too excited.
This film felt like a side story within the Marvel universe and one I hope that was meant to be the comic relief in the long line of more serious titles. A great comparison to make within the Marvel family would be that Thor: Ragnarok was the complete opposite of Logan. This film had jokes from the first line to the last. The serious fantasy and science-fiction fanboy part of me wanted to attack this movie, but even I can enjoy a pure laugh fest from time to time, as long as this doesn't become the norm.
FILM INFO: Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy Directed By: Taika Waititi Written By: Eric Pearson, Craig Kyle, Christopher Yost Release: Nov. 3rd, 2017 Runtime: 2h 10min Studio: Marvel
I greatly enjoy the Marvel movies because of their balance. I've often admired how Marvel Studios has been able to take the seriousness of these fantasy stories and fuse them with the comedy of its characters and situations to find a perfect middle. Some are more serious than others and some more comedic, and you will find fans on either side of the spectrum. Thor: Ragnarok was not balanced. If you're looking for a fun ride than look no further, but if what you're after is an intriguing storyline, serious acting, or even some great battles then look elsewhere.
Speaking of acting, I loved Cate Blanchett as Hela, but the threat of her character and overwhelming power never seemed serious. Obviously you can guess that the heroes will most likely win at the end of the day, but when you make it so blatant it really steals away the threat. When it came to the action I was let down as well. There were the start of some very good scenes, but none of them could stay serious for longer than thirty seconds, if they even managed that long without a one-liner or pokes at superhero tropes. The scenes where we did see the darker and grim side of events felt rushed and after thoughts, almost as if the director had to put them in, but only to get back to the humor. Once I found out Taika Waititi was the director, whose previous work includes What We Do in the Shadows it made a little more sense. It truly felt like one big joke, but if you like your comedy you'll probably like this movie. If you're a hardcore nerd who seriously debates who would win in a fight between Thor and Hulk, don't get too excited.
This film felt like a side story within the Marvel universe and one I hope that was meant to be the comic relief in the long line of more serious titles. A great comparison to make within the Marvel family would be that Thor: Ragnarok was the complete opposite of Logan. This film had jokes from the first line to the last. The serious fantasy and science-fiction fanboy part of me wanted to attack this movie, but even I can enjoy a pure laugh fest from time to time, as long as this doesn't become the norm.
FILM INFO: Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy Directed By: Taika Waititi Written By: Eric Pearson, Craig Kyle, Christopher Yost Release: Nov. 3rd, 2017 Runtime: 2h 10min Studio: Marvel
JordanRossReviews: PADDINGTON – 9/10 Rating: PG | Family Friendly: All Ages | How to Stream: Netflix
Summary: A young Peruvian bear with a passion for all things British travels to London in search of a home. Finding himself lost and alone at Paddington Station, he begins to realize that city life is not all he had imagined - until he meets the kind Brown family, who read the label around his neck ('Please look after this bear. Thank you.') and offer him a temporary haven. It looks as though his luck has changed until this rarest of bears catches the eye of a museum taxidermist.
Review:
This movie has a special place in my heart. I had never heard of Paddington before I watched this film, but I can understand now why Paddington is such a treasure in England. What really won me over was how the story was so warm and loving. Although the main character was an animated talking bear named Paddington, I felt connected with his journey and didn't want it to end. It reminded me of the good in people and how fun life can be. This was a warm and heartfelt film from start to finish. The story was well written and the jokes spot on. I laughed harder than I expected and it's one that I could watch over and over again. Ben Whishaw as the voice of Paddington was truly perfect. I really enjoyed the innocence of the character and how he portrayed that through his voice. The animation was great, never distracting from the story. The other performance that stood out to me was Hugh Bonneville. I thought his role as the over-protective father – Mr. Brown – was superbly acted and his interaction with an animated character very impressive. Another element I liked was the soundtrack. A lot of the upbeat light- hearted tracks went well with the story. London Is The Place For Me, was an obvious fit which now reminds me solely of this movie, plus I found that it stuck in my head for a long time after. Along with the music the sets were memorable as well. From the wonderful antique shop run by Mr. Gruber (Jim Broadbent) to the home where the Brown's lived. I also thought the moments in which director Paul King spied in on the characters through the dollhouse was a creative and nice touch. It's really hard for me to go after this film for much considering how I fell in love with it, but it was not perfect. Nicole Kidman's character Millicent was a bit over-the-top and not what I considered the best fit for the story. Her acting wasn't the issue for me, but more the character herself. The wardrobe and intensity threw me off from the rest of the film, although I did like the antagonist as a taxidermist. Another odd point was the transformation of Mr. Brown near the end of the movie. I enjoyed seeing his character open up and change his way of thinking, but it seemed almost too drastic of a switch. I originally watched this film when it first released but I re-watched it now with my girlfriend who happens to be six months pregnant. We both enjoyed it as much as I did the first time. When I think about our son who will be joining us soon, this is one movie that I know I'm excited to eventually sit down and share with him. If you and your family are looking for a happy and fun movie to enjoy, go watch Paddington. It lifted my spirits and really left me inspired. Paddington 2 releases this year and I can't wait to revisit my favorite bear in London.
FILM INFO: Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy Directed By: Paul King Written By: Paul King (Written By), Hannish McColl (Screen Story), Michael Bond (Original Author) Release: Jan 16, 2015 Runtime: 1h 35min Studio: StudioCanal
Summary: A young Peruvian bear with a passion for all things British travels to London in search of a home. Finding himself lost and alone at Paddington Station, he begins to realize that city life is not all he had imagined - until he meets the kind Brown family, who read the label around his neck ('Please look after this bear. Thank you.') and offer him a temporary haven. It looks as though his luck has changed until this rarest of bears catches the eye of a museum taxidermist.
Review:
This movie has a special place in my heart. I had never heard of Paddington before I watched this film, but I can understand now why Paddington is such a treasure in England. What really won me over was how the story was so warm and loving. Although the main character was an animated talking bear named Paddington, I felt connected with his journey and didn't want it to end. It reminded me of the good in people and how fun life can be. This was a warm and heartfelt film from start to finish. The story was well written and the jokes spot on. I laughed harder than I expected and it's one that I could watch over and over again. Ben Whishaw as the voice of Paddington was truly perfect. I really enjoyed the innocence of the character and how he portrayed that through his voice. The animation was great, never distracting from the story. The other performance that stood out to me was Hugh Bonneville. I thought his role as the over-protective father – Mr. Brown – was superbly acted and his interaction with an animated character very impressive. Another element I liked was the soundtrack. A lot of the upbeat light- hearted tracks went well with the story. London Is The Place For Me, was an obvious fit which now reminds me solely of this movie, plus I found that it stuck in my head for a long time after. Along with the music the sets were memorable as well. From the wonderful antique shop run by Mr. Gruber (Jim Broadbent) to the home where the Brown's lived. I also thought the moments in which director Paul King spied in on the characters through the dollhouse was a creative and nice touch. It's really hard for me to go after this film for much considering how I fell in love with it, but it was not perfect. Nicole Kidman's character Millicent was a bit over-the-top and not what I considered the best fit for the story. Her acting wasn't the issue for me, but more the character herself. The wardrobe and intensity threw me off from the rest of the film, although I did like the antagonist as a taxidermist. Another odd point was the transformation of Mr. Brown near the end of the movie. I enjoyed seeing his character open up and change his way of thinking, but it seemed almost too drastic of a switch. I originally watched this film when it first released but I re-watched it now with my girlfriend who happens to be six months pregnant. We both enjoyed it as much as I did the first time. When I think about our son who will be joining us soon, this is one movie that I know I'm excited to eventually sit down and share with him. If you and your family are looking for a happy and fun movie to enjoy, go watch Paddington. It lifted my spirits and really left me inspired. Paddington 2 releases this year and I can't wait to revisit my favorite bear in London.
FILM INFO: Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy Directed By: Paul King Written By: Paul King (Written By), Hannish McColl (Screen Story), Michael Bond (Original Author) Release: Jan 16, 2015 Runtime: 1h 35min Studio: StudioCanal
JordanRossReviews: The Lost City of Z – 7/10 Rating: PG-13 | Family Friendly: No. 13+ | How to Watch: Streaming
Percy Fawcett's story was one I had no prior knowledge of, yet I found inspiring and adventurous as it was told through The Lost City of Z. I can't remember a film I've seen that began with the story of a cartographer, which I thought was an interesting call-to-adventure deep in the Amazonia. A story like this one stirs my explorer's spirit, but then quickly douses the boy-like fantasy as it reminds how dangerous these explorations could be.
Charlie Hunnam cast as the British explorer was a decision that was questionable to me, although I found out that Benedict Cumberbatch was originally supposed to play the role which would've have been much more fitting. I'm not sure if Hunnam is just too American, but his accent seemed a little unnatural. Although at times I thought he really sold the character, there were others when I felt he just wasn't the best choice for this role. I think he could handle the spirit of the character, but it was more of an issue with his look. Not the worst casting, just not the best. That being said, the casting of the supporting roles were great, and it may have just been me who took a moment to recognize Robert Pattinson as Henry Costin under that thick beard.
My favorite aspect of this film was the cinematography from Darius Khondji. Director James Gray made a decision to shoot with 35mm film which I enjoyed immensely. From Cork, Ireland and London, England to the wilds of the Amazonia the scenes were beautiful. Every shot was rich in color and had wonderful contrast. Gray had a vision that he executed with richness and beauty with Khondji. Although the decision to shoot with the 35mm cost the production an additional seven-hundred and fifty thousand dollars and logistical issues I think it was more than worth it in the end.
The largest issue I had with the film was the script. At times and certain scenes I thought the characters motivation and direction was clear, but other times I wasn't so sure. For example the obsessiveness of Fawcett in finding his lost city seemed under- explained. I wasn't sure of why he even called it the city of Z until I did my own research. For a man willing to leave his family and life behind he had to have more reason to go back to the dangerous amazon. Historically I found that the story of Fawcett was changed a lot, and Gray focused more on the characters then the actual adventure which gave me even more reason to want a more historically accurate tale.
The scope of the film was huge from the beginning and I think it was inspiring. In the end The Lost City of Z was a beautiful tale of exploration and sacrifice, yet could've held truer to the actual events. Even though I didn't agree with the casting of Charlie Hunnam it was a decent pick when Benedict Cumberbatch had to back out, although I still wish it was a British actor to take the role. The soundtrack was fitting with the amazing photography and the tale of such bravery into the wilds of the jungle rekindled my own sense of adventure. A challenging film to make and one that I'm glad I spent the time to watch.
FILM INFO: Genre: Adventure, Biography, Drama, History Directed By: James Gray Written By: James Gray (Screenplay), David Grann (Book) Release: April 21, 2017 Runtime: 2h 21min Studio: Amazon Studios
Percy Fawcett's story was one I had no prior knowledge of, yet I found inspiring and adventurous as it was told through The Lost City of Z. I can't remember a film I've seen that began with the story of a cartographer, which I thought was an interesting call-to-adventure deep in the Amazonia. A story like this one stirs my explorer's spirit, but then quickly douses the boy-like fantasy as it reminds how dangerous these explorations could be.
Charlie Hunnam cast as the British explorer was a decision that was questionable to me, although I found out that Benedict Cumberbatch was originally supposed to play the role which would've have been much more fitting. I'm not sure if Hunnam is just too American, but his accent seemed a little unnatural. Although at times I thought he really sold the character, there were others when I felt he just wasn't the best choice for this role. I think he could handle the spirit of the character, but it was more of an issue with his look. Not the worst casting, just not the best. That being said, the casting of the supporting roles were great, and it may have just been me who took a moment to recognize Robert Pattinson as Henry Costin under that thick beard.
My favorite aspect of this film was the cinematography from Darius Khondji. Director James Gray made a decision to shoot with 35mm film which I enjoyed immensely. From Cork, Ireland and London, England to the wilds of the Amazonia the scenes were beautiful. Every shot was rich in color and had wonderful contrast. Gray had a vision that he executed with richness and beauty with Khondji. Although the decision to shoot with the 35mm cost the production an additional seven-hundred and fifty thousand dollars and logistical issues I think it was more than worth it in the end.
The largest issue I had with the film was the script. At times and certain scenes I thought the characters motivation and direction was clear, but other times I wasn't so sure. For example the obsessiveness of Fawcett in finding his lost city seemed under- explained. I wasn't sure of why he even called it the city of Z until I did my own research. For a man willing to leave his family and life behind he had to have more reason to go back to the dangerous amazon. Historically I found that the story of Fawcett was changed a lot, and Gray focused more on the characters then the actual adventure which gave me even more reason to want a more historically accurate tale.
The scope of the film was huge from the beginning and I think it was inspiring. In the end The Lost City of Z was a beautiful tale of exploration and sacrifice, yet could've held truer to the actual events. Even though I didn't agree with the casting of Charlie Hunnam it was a decent pick when Benedict Cumberbatch had to back out, although I still wish it was a British actor to take the role. The soundtrack was fitting with the amazing photography and the tale of such bravery into the wilds of the jungle rekindled my own sense of adventure. A challenging film to make and one that I'm glad I spent the time to watch.
FILM INFO: Genre: Adventure, Biography, Drama, History Directed By: James Gray Written By: James Gray (Screenplay), David Grann (Book) Release: April 21, 2017 Runtime: 2h 21min Studio: Amazon Studios