Best Films of 2018

I held back on unveiling my list because there were so many films that came out last year that I had yet to see. My top ten has shifted as I have gotten a chance to watch more films that came out in 2018. Since the Oscars will be on in a short hours, I decided that today would be a great time to unveil it. Please let me know the films that stuck with you last year. I might do an updated list once, I watch the films on my must watch list.

Top Ten

• Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse
• Blackklansman
• Ready Player One
• The Miseducation of Cameron Post
• The Oath
• Green Book
• Three Identical Strangers
• Isle of Dogs
• We The Animals
• To All the Boys I loved Before

Honorable Mention

• Black Panther
• Dumplin'
• Christopher Robin
• 22 July
• A Star is Born
• Mandy
• Eight Grade
• Sorry to Bother You
• Hearts Beat Loud
• American Animals

Movies I have not seen but I want to

• The Favorite
• Burning
• Cold War
• Roma
• Bad Times at El Royale
• If Beale Street Could Talk
• Colette
• Beast
• Hate U Give
• Support the Girls
• Monsters and Men
• Won't You Be My Neighbor
• White Boy Rick
• Paddington 2
• The Rider

The Greatest Showman: The Review

Directed by: Michael Gracey
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams, Zac Efron, Zendaya, Keala Settle and Rebecca Ferguson
Written by: Jenny Bicks and Bill Condon
Cinematography: Seamus McGarvey
Music and Lyrics by: Benj Pasek and Justin Paul
Rating: 5/5 Unicorns

When 2017 began, The Greatest Showman was nowhere on my radar. It was not a film that I was looking forward to, nor did I think much about it. I knew that it had a stellar cast and I was curious to see how it would fare at the box office.  Weeks leading up to the release, I did not see much promo for the film nor was the film winning critical acclaim. Once released, it had dismal opening. Due to strong word of mouth , the  film has had mighty strong legs at the box office. As of now, it has grossed over $100 million at the US box office.

The Greatest Showman tells the remarkable tale of the origin of Barnum & Bailey's Greatest Show on Earth. The film follows P.T Barnum ( Hugh Jackman) journey from rags to riches. We are introduced to his loyal wife Charity (Michelle Williams), his business partner Phillip Carlyle (Zac Efron) and his acts (Zendaya, Keala Settle and Rebecca Ferguson).  Unlike most biographical films, The Greatest Showman is a full fledged musical. Any historian will tell you the film took several creative liberties with the film.  Does the accuracy matter for the musical?  No. All biopics are fictitious in nature, in order for the film to work it all depends on the execution.

  The Greatest Showman is not the best film I have ever seen. The pacing of the film felt like each scene was building up to the next musical number. Some aspects of the film were a bit ridiculous, particularly the dialogue. The Greatest Showman is not going to make a believer out of individuals whom hate musicals. Taking everything into consideration, I absolutely adored The Greatest Showman. It does not come as a surprise, I love musicals. I love to be wowed and thoroughly entertained, that is all I ask from a musical. Oh boy, does this film deliver this and more.  The Greatest Showman was visually breathtaking and inspiring. The choreography was mesmerizing and  the musical numbers were spellbinding.  I have been  obsessively listening to the soundtrack since I walked out of the theater.

 If you want to be transported to a time of magic and romance, The Greatest Showman is for you.

Birth of a Nation: The Review

Birth of a Nation is about the remarkable true story of Nate Turner. Nate Turner was a slave who was also a preacher. He would later lead a slave rebellion that was responsible for the deaths of several slave masters. He was later executed for his actions.

Over the past two months Birth of a Nation has been making headlines, but not for the reasons that Fox Searchlight would have liked. When the film debut at the Sundance Film Festival back in January it was met with wide praise and anticipation. Fox Searchlight purchased the rights to the film for a record $17.5 million.  I was shaking in my boots with excitement thinking about seeing this film. I knew it would be a film that would shake me to my emotional core.

 Two months ago,  it was revealed that the director Nate Parker was accused of raping a fellow college student in the late 90's. He was later acquitted for those charges. It became difficult for the film to shake off that revelation. I admit that my excitement  for the film became clouded. There was such much noise on social media, it was hard to figure out if it was worth seeing the film. I decided to watch the film and judge the film for the work that it was. I left behind any preconceived notions that I might have had.

 What I found out was this film was a masterpiece. Not only was it one of the best films that came out this year, it was probably one of the most powerful films that I have ever watched. The film was visually remarkable. Blood spatter on a cloth  of dying man was almost foreshadowing the rebellion. Corn being filled with blood to portray Nate's grief. The transition of the crying boy to the soldier he would become fighting for the Union. Parker did a marvelous job directing this film.

It is not an easy film to watch. It will sit with you long after the film credits roll. It is a movie that deals with a slave rebellion. There are scenes that show the brutality of slavery. There was one scene in particular that I had to turn my head away. I won't spoil it, but I will say it had to deal with a force feeding.

Aja Naomi King's portrayal of Cherry Turner was simply breathtaking. I hope she gets some award recognition, but it is looking very doubtful right now.

It is your choice to watch this film. I completely understand if that is something you cannot do. For me, this film was worth seeing. 

The Jungle Book: The Review

Starring: Neel Sethi, Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley, Idris Elba, Lupita Nyong'o and Christopher Waken
Directed by: Jon Favreau
Written by: Justin Marks
Based on the novel by: Rudyard Kipling
Rating: 5/5 Unicorns

The Jungle Book was one of the most anticipated movies of the year and after watching it, I can say it did not disappoint. Jon Favreau's  adaptation of the beloved tale is a masterpiece and it is sure to become a Disney classic. Watching it come to life on the screen was exhilarating. The last film I saw that was this visually stunning was Avatar. I was completely engrossed into the story I was witnessing.

It was funny, heartwarming and scary at times. What can I say? Snakes terrify me. The voiceover work was exceptional. Idris Elba delivers an iconic villainous turn as Shere Khan. Bill Murray was sheer perfection as Baloo.

Neel Sethi was delightful. He has a bright future ahead of him after this career making performance.

If you have to see one film this month, make sure you check out The Jungle Book. It was spectacular.

Best Movies of 2015 : Part I

Best Pictures of 2015

Straight Outta Compton

I got something to say... Straight Outta Compton was a triumph.

Mad Max: Fury Road

Mad Max felt like an independent blockbuster. It was the best ride I took this entire year. This film was spectacular.

Inside Out

Pixar outdid themselves with this heartwarming instant classic.

Spotlight On

Tangerine

Gritty with career making performances. 

Clouds of Sils Maria

I just adore European films. They're understated and allow their actors to shine in them.  The scenery in this film was breathtaking. 

Three Flicks to Rent

1. Edge of Tomorrow

A hilarious sci-fi adventure that will leave you on the edge of your seat. It really should be renamed the Edge of Awesome.
2. Obvious Child

A sweet, honest and daring romantic comedy. Jenny Slate is a revelation.

3. Snowpiercer

Absolutely brilliant. It's a thrilling and bittersweet adventure. The whole film is a fantastic metaphor about humanity. 

Speed Ratings

I thought it would be a cute idea to give lightning fast film reviews. It is kind of like speed dating version film critiquing. I have seen a few movies over the past month.

22 Jump Street
Not as funny as the original. The movie is saved by the excellent facial expressions of Ice Cube and the chemistry between Tatum and Hill. Verdict: Skip This

Maleficent
Visually stunning. Angelina Jolie is a force of nature as the titled character. It was a refreshing and darker take on a classic tale. Verdict: Must See

X-Men: Days of Future Past
I had high expectations and this film delivered. It was everything a summer blockbuster should be-funny, smart and action packed. The best film of the summer so far. Verdict: Must See

Neighbors
Funny and smart. Verdict: Must see

Belle

 Powerful and beautiful. One of the best movies of the year. Verdict: Must see

The Way Way Back
Heartwarming. Absolutely brilliant. Verdict: Rent this

April at the Movies

Rent This: Captain Phillips

Heart-stopping thriller filled with powerful performances. How Tom Hanks did not get nominated for Oscar is beyond me. Barkhad Abdi gives a mesmerizing performance. This film was outstanding.

Skip This: Man of Steel

One hot-ass mess.

Catch This: The Grand Budapest Hotel

A delightful masterpiece

Catch This: Captain America: The Winter Solider

A smart, funny, action- packed thrill ride. 

Fruitvale Station: The Review

Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Melonie Diaz and Octavia Spencer
Written and Directed by: Ryan Coogler
Rating: 5/5 Unicorns

Fruitvale Station is the mesmerizing debut feature from Ryan Coogler about the last day of Oscar Grant's ( Michael B. Jordan) life. I have been dying to watch this film since I first heard it was being made. I was ecstatic as it got high praise at both Sundance and Cannes. When I put the DVD in, I was overwhelmed. This was a movie I had waited forever to see but I dreaded the emotions the viewing would have. I knew that there would be tears and that most likely I would be consumed by anger. In the end, I am happy that I got the privilege to watch this film.

Fruitvale Station was well written film with incredible performances. Octavia Spencer's portrayal as Oscar's mother Wanda was heartbreaking. Micheal B. Jordan not only gave an Oscar worthy performance but did the incredible task of breathing life into Oscar Grant. I have to give him and Ryan Coogler props for making Oscar Grant human. He was not portrayed as hero nor as a villain. He was a young man trying to turn his life around. He was your brother, your son, your father, your friend and your neighbor. He was someone you could relate to and root for. Unfortunately, these days there are not too many films that portray black males as human. They are just caricatures of what the media believes about blackness. Throughout the film we remain hopeful that things will work out for Oscar but in the back of our minds we know how his life will come to a tragic end.

The last twenty minutes of the film is heart stopping. You are watching the events unfold and you are disgusted with yourself that you allowed it to happen.I remember thinking to myself this is what film-making is all about. It is suppose to create a dialogue. You are suppose to react to what you are seeing. Ryan Coogler's first film is nothing short of spectacular. It is a shame that this fine film was overlooked by the Academy.I will go on the record and say Fruitvale Station was one of the best films of 2013. 

Catching Fire

Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Woody Harrelson, Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Liam Hemsworth, Sam Claflin, Elizabeth Banks, Jena Malone, Lenny Kravitz, Stanley Tucci, Jeffrey Wright, Amanda Plummer, Lynn Cohen and Donald Sutherland
Written by: Simon Beaufoy and Michael Arndt
Directed by: Francis Lawrence
Rating: 4.5/5 Unicorns

It is no secret that I am a huge Hunger Games fan. I still have not brought myself to read Mockingjay because I don't want this journey to be over. It is also no secret that I was not a huge fan of the popular movie adaption of my beloved Hunger Games. If I am being honest with you, I kind of hated it. I only gave it a passing grade because I felt it was well acted. I was a little nervous about Catching Fire because I loved the book and I did not want to be disappointed again. I am pleased to say this movie adaptation actually did the book justice. Thank the lord for Francis Lawrence.

Catching Fire picks up right where Hunger Games ended. Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) have returned back to District 12 after being victorious in the 74th Annual Hunger Games. In order to protect their loved ones and themselves they must convince President Snow(Donald Sutherland) that their stunt at the games was out of love and not defiance. During their Victor's Tour they become aware of the increasing rebellion against The Capitol amongst the districts. Knowing the power that Katniss possess President Snow announces there will be a twist in the 3rd Quarter Quell (75th Annual Hunger Games), the tributes will be drawn from the winning districts. This act forces Katniss and Peeta to enter The Hunger Games for a second time.

The entire heartbeat of Catching Fire was absolutely spectacular. This film remained true to the book. For those complaining about the ending of the film, read the damn book. The film captured the ending of the film remarkably. I was beaming with joy because they brought that moment to life. If you want to know what happens next, read Mockingjay. Now that rant is out of the way, I must admit Sam Claflin was amazing as  Finnick. He was hot, sassy, strong and vulnerable all at once. One of my favorite elements about Finnick is his relationship with Mags (Lynn Cohen). Watching that relationship on the screen was truly bittersweet. Can we get an amen for Jena Malone's portrayal of  Johanna Mason. She was even more bad-ass than I had imagined.

In this film, we get to see more development in the love triangle between Katniss, Peeta and Gale (Liam Hemsworth). For someone who is a big fan of the pairing of Gale and Katniss, I was really thrilled to see all their scenes together. I admit that Peeta and Katniss relationship has really grown on me. I remember thinking about how sweet Peeta was. Damn you Josh for doing such a great job at playing Peeta. Even though shipping can be fun the love triangle really is not a huge factor in The Hunger Games series. These series are about what happens when you stand up for what you believe in. These books are about how one single person can inspire a revolution. It really is beautiful to see a strong and complex female character be a center of a groundbreaking franchise.

From the score to the costumes to the special effects Catching Fire was immaculate. Francis Lawrence has an eye for detail that I really appreciate. In the transition from book to the movie there were a few things that were changed for dramatic effect. I might not like it, but I understand they are catering to a movie audience. If you are the few people who have not seen Catching Fire, check it out. I promise you that you will be entertained. 

12 Years A Slave

Starring: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Lupita Nyong'o, Sarah Paulson, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano and Brad Pitt
Written by: John Ridley
Directed by: Steve McQueen
Rating: 5/5 Unicorns

I can count the films that have left a lasting impression on me. Steve McQueens's 12 Years a Slave is the most powerful film I have ever experienced. I do not use those words lightly. You do not simply watch 12 Years a Slave, it is a film that you experience. It is brutal, intense, incredibly moving  and when it is all said and done an extraordinary achievement in film-making.

12 Years a Slave is the remarkable true story of Solomon Northup( Chiwetel Ejofor), a free man who is sold into slavery. You witness the monstrosities that occurred to men like Solomon. You see how slave owners made it their mission to break their slaves. How they had the audacity to justify their actions with the scripture. This film does not sugar- coat the horrors of slavery. It is not easy film to watch but it is essential for the human race to watch this film. You cannot watch 12 Years a Slave without leaving a changed man.

Besides the strong narrative the film is beautifully made. The cinematography is stunning and the score is haunting. Steve McQueen continues to prove himself as one of the strongest and unique voices in film-making. In terms of acting, there is no weak link in this film. All the actors give award winning performances. I will be shocked if Chiwetel Ejofor does not take home the golden statue after this career defining performance. I was incredibly impressed by Lupita Nyong'o performance of Patsey. Her story was one of the saddest tales ever told. There is one scene that involves her being whipped to the inch of death, I am not sure how I got through that scene. She is a talent that everyone will be talking about. I believe she will be nominated for Best Supporting Actress when the Award Season begins.

12 Years a Slave is not only the best film of the year but one of the best films ever made. You will be doing yourself a complete disservice by not watching this film.

Weekend

Starring: Chris New and Tom Cullen
Written and Directed by: Andrew Haigh
Rating: 5/5 Unicorns

What was suppose to be only a drunken one-night stand evolves into something more, something new and completely unexpected.  Weekend is the enchanting second feature by Andrew Haigh that follows two men fall slowly for one another over the course of a weekend.

When it comes to love stories, I am always a skeptic. The majority of love stories always follow the same formula. Boy- meets- girl, boy- loses- girl and then boy- gets- girl back. Boring!!! They are extremely predictable and the script is full of cheesy lines. I am always groaning and having a gag reflex. What I loved about Weekend was the authenticity of the film. It was extremely honest and intimate. Throughout the film I felt like I was a fly on the wall, a true intruder. I really loved the direction choices that Andrew Haigh made.There were several shots that are done through a mirror, as if you were watching the characters in the mirror. Those shots were my favorite because I felt like a nosy bystander. Then there were shots that followed the actors as if you were someone walking right behind them. It was just beautifully filmed. Weekend was also one of the best written films I have ever seen. I would give anything to read the actual script. There was a naturalness to the dialogue as if the film was completely improvised.

Another key to the magic of Weekend are the two leads, Tom Cullen and Chris New. Their chemistry was out of this world. You really believed that they were falling for each other. Their individual performances was nothing short of breathtaking. Tom Cullen was mesmerizing as Russell.You could not keep your eyes off him which is a true testament to Tom's talent. Russell is a bit of a wallflower who is little uncomfortable in his own skin. He is unassuming, bit removed from his surroundings but you have a sense that is looking for a place to call a home. When you learn about his back-story, you really appreciate the acting choices Tom makes. He was just brilliant as Russell, one of my favorite acting performances of all time. I loved Chris's portrayal of the confident and opinionated Glen. Underneath all of that assertiveness you have inkling that Glen desperately wants to be liked but has closed himself emotionally. It was comical watching Glen's walls breaking down because he was trying so hard to play it cool. I loved how both characters were complicated and flawed. What I loved most was how they each were the missing links of themselves. This movie was just flawless.

I wouldn't call Weekend a gay movie. Obviously, the two characters are gay men but just labeling Weekend as a gay movie it feels like you are writing it off. It is an incredibly acted film with an impeccable script. This movie restores my faith in the romantic film genre. It is possible for a film to be romantic, funny, heart-warming and refreshing. In little under two hours, Weekend entered my heart and became my favorite movie of all time. This is a remarkable feat considering I am a bit of a cynic.

Cheat Sheet: September Edition

Rent This: Now You See Me

Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo, Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher, Dave Franco, Melanie Laurent, Morgan Freeman and Michael Caine
Directed by: Louis Leterrier
Written by: Ed Solomon, Boaz Yakin and Edward Ricourt
Rating: 4/5 Unicorns

Now You See Me was probably one of the most original films that came out over the summer. It was a fun, sexy and clever action flick. It will keep you guessing every step of the way.

Rent This: World War Z

Starring: Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos and Daniella Kertesz
Directed by: Marc Forster
Written by: Matthew Michael Carnahan, Drew Goddard and Damon Lindelof
Rating: 4.5/5 Unicorns

World War Z is a heart- stopping thrill ride. You will be on the edge of your seat from start to finish. I absolutely loved watching this smart zombie film. If there is ever a zombie Apocalypse, I hope it is not anything like this because I would not last five seconds in that world.

Catch This: Prisoners

Starring: Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Viola Davis, Maria Bello, Terrence Howard, Melissa Leo and Paul Dano
Directed by: Denis Villeneuve
Written by: Aaron Guzikowski
Rating: 4.5/5 Unicorns

Prisoners follows the story of two families desperate plight to find their missing daughters. This film is a riveting thriller packed with astounding performances. You will have to watch it twice just to get the facts straight. Prisoners is the first great film of the fall, do yourself a favor and check it out. 

In Case of a Raining Day

I don't know about your heck of the woods but over here in the Garden State it was raining cats and dogs. It got me thinking, what a perfect day to watch a movie. If you ever get stuck in a rain storm I have some picks to get you through them.
1. The Intouchables

I loved this movie. It was funny and extremely heartfelt. Make sure to bring you tissues, you eyes will well up by the end.

2. The House I Live In

I admit that this is not light film for a raining day but you will not find a more educational documentary than this. A must see but you will be pissed.

3. The Conjuring

If you a brave enough to face the elements, check out this film at your local cinemas. One of the best films that came out this year. One of the best horror films to come out in a long time. I was scared sh**less.

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In the Shadow of the Sun

Sunday evening I attended my first film festival, Human Rights Watch Festival. My heart was beating a million beats per second because of my excitement. I was honored to watch the US premiere of the incredible documentary In The Shadow of The Sun directed by the lovely Harry Freeland. There was even a Q &A that followed afterwards and we got to learn more about how the film came to be. The model Shaun Ross was in attendance and I was a little star struck.  

In The Shadow of The Sun was filmed over the course of six years in Tanzania. It documents the lives of two men( Josephat Torner and Vedastus) living with albinism who are trying to pursue their dreams despite prejudice. This topic matter is something that is very dear to my heart. I grew up in Africa and it was not uncommon for me to see people with albinism. I was never aware about the discrimination they faced until it was reported a few years ago about the killings taking place in East Africa. There is a belief that if you kill someone with albinism good fortune will come to you. This belief is perpetuated by a few witch doctors. This film was an eye opening experience and should be watched by all. It was one of the best films I have ever seen. It was a  powerful and beautifully filmed documentary. I loved that it showed how Tanzanians were working to educate their population about this human rights issue. Usually documentaries of this nature come from an outsider perspective and never show Africans  trying to help themselves.  It is always an excuse to throw money without giving you much awareness about the real issue at hand. I have to give a huge congratulations to the team behind the film for this accomplishment.

I believe that it will be airing on PBS in August. To learn more about the film make sure to check out their Website and follow them on Twitter and Facebook for more up to date information.  To learn more about the Human Rights Watch Festival make sure to click this link. They have more incredible films on their roster. The film production have created an organization to promote social inclusion and to stop human rights violations against marginalized groups. It is called Standing Voice make sure to check out the website here. 

In The Shadow Of The Sun Trailer - Harry Freeland from Hunter Gather on Vimeo.

Cheat Sheet

If you love my top three picks post then you are in for a treat. Here is my first cheat sheet. A list of films to catch at your local cinemas and films to rent from home. Let me know of any films that are worthy of the cheat sheet.
Rent This:

• The Impossible

This movie is a cinematic feat. I was crying within ten minutes of watching the film. Naomi Watts was incredible in this film, her performance was criminally overlooked during award season. She should have picked up at least one award for her memorizing performance. who played her son gave a spectacular performance. What a wonderful film. Just remember to keep your Kleenexes handy.

• Wreck-It Ralph

One of the most original computer animated films I have ever seen. This movie made me feel warm and fuzzy. 

• Seven Psychopaths

I just loved this movie. The dialogue was sharp and the characters were fascinating. It will definitely become a cult hit.

Watch this:

• Iron Man 3

The perfect conclusion to a great trilogy. It's a rollicking good time. We have a great villain, which always makes a great action flick.  Robert Downey Jr is the perfect Tony Stark. We get to see more layers of Iron Man and its fantastic. One of the highlights for me was Pepper Potts. Now that is one kick-ass chick.

• 42

This movie is an emotional roller-coaster.  There will be moments that make you hate humanity but most of time you feel incredible about the strength of this man. You will laugh and you will cry. Hands down the best sports movie since Remember the Titans. 

My Top Three Picks

Rent This: Skyfall

Skyfall was the highest grossing Bond film ever and after watching it over the weekend I understand why. Another smart action film with a lot of heart. Javier Bardem was a fantastic villain and Daniel Craig is one bad-ass Bond. I thoroughly enjoyed how kick-ass Naomie Harris and Dame Judi Dench were.  

Rent This: End of Watch

End of Watch is shot in a documentary style and it takes a few minutes to get adjusted to that. That said End of Watch was one of the best films that came out last year. Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Pena give arguably one of the best performances of their careers. I just loved their bromance and people should be lucky to have a friendship like that. It is a tear-jerking so make sure to keep tissues handy.

Catch This: Warm Bodies

If Warm Bodies is still playing at your local cinema, make sure to check it out. Probably one of the most original romantic comedies I have ever seen. It was hilarious and had a few scares.

Oz The Great and Powerful

Starring: James Franco, Mila Kunis, Michelle Williams, Rachel Weisz and Zach Braff
Directed by: Sam Raimi
Written by: Mitchell Kapner and David Lindsay-Abaire
Rating:4.5/5 Unicorns

Now that the Oscar Season has passed it is time to return back to basics. I am still catching up on films that came out last year but I still found time to watch the first blockbuster of the year. Oz the Great and Powerful tells the tale of  Oscar Diggs( James Franco) a small time circus magician who gets transported to the magical Land of Oz. He meets up with Theodora(Mila Kunis) who is convinced he is the great wizard destined to save Oz. In order to fulfill the prophecy he must kill the wicked witch.

In no means is Oz the Great and Powerful a great movie. It is not a film that inspired me or blew my mind; however, I absolutely loved it. I thoroughly enjoyed the cinematography, visual effects and art direction in this film. It was just an absolutely beautiful treat for the eyes. I loved how the film began in black and white and only became in color once Oscar entered Oz. Once again Danny Elfman did a fantastic job on the film's score. I also have to mention that Mariah Carey sings the theme song for the film entitled Almost Home. It really embodies the feel of the film. Unfortunately, you do not hear the song until the very end of the end credits. In terms of pacing, I thought the film had a great pace. There were no sections I felt dragged on or were too short. It was fun to see the origins of the characters we loved in The Wizard of Oz.

I thought the casting was on point. I thought James Franco did a great job at portraying Oscar and his transformation to the Wizard of Oz. On a superficial note he really is a good looking guy. Rachel Weisz was incredible as Evanora and Michelle Williams was breathtaking as Glinda the Good. I thought Mila Kunis did a good job as well. I felt her character arc was actually quite sad. The movie was really funny mostly because of Finley( voiced by Zach Braff) the flying monkey. Overall, Oz the Great and Powerful was a fun and sweet treat. It gets my seal of approval. 

Django Unchained

Starring: Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio, Samuel L. Jackson and Kerry Washington
Directed and Written by: Quentin Tarantino
Rating: 5/5 Unicorns

Set in the South two years before The Civil War, Django Unchained follows the story of a slave( Jamie Foxx) turned bounty hunter who is determine to rescue his wife Broomhilda( Kerry Washington) from the "Candyland" plantation owned by the notorious Calvin Candie( Leonardo DiCaprio). Christoph Waltz portrays the role of Dr. King Schultz the German- born bounty hunter who trains Django.

When I first learned about Django Unchained it was during the "in development" stages on IMDB pro. I watched as they went through a few casting changes and i gave a sigh of relief once it began filming. After three years of anticipation, Django Unchained was everything I dreamt it could be. It was an intense action packed thrill of a ride. There were a few moments that I had to cover my eyes because they were horrifically graphic. Those moments set the tone for the kind of world Django was living in.

Like previous Tarantino efforts the score for Django Unchained was magnificent. My favorite segment was when the theme song for Battle Royale came on. Overall this film was an extremely well written and directed film. Quentin Tarantino is just the man. There were moments you were laughing hysterically,  few WTF moments and tons of gore.

If you an actor, you will appreciate the performances in this film. I have not seen Leonardo DiCaprio portray a character quite like Calvin Candie before. He was an absolute beast, I think this could be his year come award season. Christoph Waltz was incredible as usual. It was a trip to see Samuel L. Jackson as Stephen, the trusted house slave to Master Calvin. I wanted to punch him so hard. His scenes with Leonardo were hilarious. Their banter was impeccable. Django Unchained was in my humble opinion the best film of the year 2012.

Life of Pi

Starring: Suraj Sharma, Irrfan Khan, Rafe Spall, Adil Hussain, Tabu and Gerard Deparadieu

Directed by: Ang Lee

Written by: David Magee

Rating: 5/5 Unicorns

Based on the best selling novel written by Yann Martel, Life of Pi tells the remarkable survival story of Pi Patel( Suraj Sharma). After surviving a fatal shipwreck, Pi finds himself on a lifeboat in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with 450 pound Bengal Tiger named Richard Parker. 

The first time I watched the trailer for Life of Pi it immediately was on top of my must see list. Now that we are in Award Season, I have been hearing more praise for the film. It has been picking up nominations left and right. After watching the film over the weekend it lived up to all of my expectations. Life of Pi was the most visually stimulating film I have seen since Avatar. The cinematography in this film was simply out of this world. Its cinematography alone is a great reason to check out this film. Not to mention the visual effects were astounding. I had several awe moments while watching this film. I highly recommend that you catch it in 3D if you can. It is one of the few films that were made for 3D purposes and not converted to 3D better for revenue at the box office. 

Life of Pi is more than its cinematography and visual effects, it is also great story to watch. Ang Lee did a fantastic job bringing this much loved story to life. I was thoroughly impressed with Suraj Sharma who I felt keep the audiences thoroughly engaged with his portrayal as Pi. He is a bright future ahead of him. Not too many actors can do what he did in this film. The score of the film was fantastic as well. It made the significant moments in the film even more powerful. What I loved about the film is that it makes you think about life and yourself. It makes you think about your destiny and how much you can endure. It really boils down to being a  film about faith. You are left wondering what story to believe. Personally I have always believed in the stories that were inconceivable. How they used to say it in the 90's, this movie is deep son. 

Since the majority of the film takes place on a lifeboat its running time feels longer than it actually is. I have seen several movies that were longer than Life of Pi but because there was so much going on I did not feel the duration. The reason I did not deduct points from the rating is because the film was just beautiful. The more I thought about the film, the more I loved it. It leaves you with a warm fuzzy feeling inside. In fact I look forward to watching the film for a second time.