"Pacific Rim: Uprising" Review by Tim Hellman

'PACIFIC RIM: UPRISING': Four Stars (Out of Five)

A sequel to the hit 2013 sci-fi monster flick 'PACIFIC RIM', which was directed and co-written by 2018's Oscar winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro (who also served as a producer on this sequel). The film was co-written and directed by debut feature filmmaker Steven S. DeKnight (who's previously only helmed genre TV shows, like 'DAREDEVIL', 'DOLLHOUSE', 'SMALLVILLE' and 'ANGEL'). The story is set 10-years after the events of the original movie, when society is threatened by new Kaiju creatures, and a new younger team of Jaeger pilots must do battle with them. It stars John Boyega, Cailee Spaeny, Scott Eastwood, Jing Tian, Adria Arjona and Zhang Jin (in new parts); while Charlie Day, Rinko Kikuchi and Burn Gorman all reprise their roles from the original movie. It's received mostly positive reviews from critics, and it's a modest hit at the Box Office as well. If this chapter does good enough, many more sequels are planned (including spinoffs) to create a whole new sci-fi movie universe (similar to the 'STAR WARS' franchise). I enjoyed this film to an extent, but not as much as the original, I am still looking forward to more sequels though.

The story takes place ten-years after the Battle of the Breach. A Jaeger has gone rogue and is causing massive destruction. It appears as though someone, or something, has released more Kaiju monsters into the world. Jake Pentecost (Boyega), son of the late great Stacker Pentecost (Idris Elba in the first film), leads a new team of young Jaeger pilots to stop this new threat.

The movie definitely has some cool visuals, and some pretty awesome robot vs. monster fight scenes. Boyega is also very charismatic in the lead, although Eastwood kind of sucks as his rival, still the film is severely lacking what del Toro brought to the original. This movie has a very strong TV feel to it too, thanks to the inexperienced new director. If you're a fan of the 'DAREDEVIL' and 'DOLLHOUSE' type shows you might enjoy it, but I'm a movie lover (not a TV fan). I prefer quality over quantity, and this film definitely doesn't live up to it's predecessor. I am still looking forward to more future installments though, like I said, and hopefully they'll be much better than this.

"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" Review by Tim Hellman

'STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI': Five Stars (Out of Five)

The ninth installment in the 'STAR WARS' film franchise (12th counting two made for television 'EWOK' movies, and an animated film). It picks up right where 2015's 'STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS' left off, and revolves around Rey teaming up with Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, Finn, Poe, and others, to defend the galaxy from the First Order, and the dark side of the force. The movie was written and directed by Rian Johnson (who also helmed the critically acclaimed 2012 sci-fi hit 'LOOPER'). It stars Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher (in one of her final film roles), Domhnall Gleeson, Andy Serkis, Anthony Daniels and Peter Mayhew, in returning roles. While Kelly Marie Tran, Benicio del Toro and Laura Dern all join the cast. It's gotten mostly positive reviews from critics, and it's expected to be another huge blockbuster at the Box Office as well, of course. I of course loved it!

The film begins with the Rebel Alliance desperately trying to escape an attack by the First Order (in space). At the same time Rey is meeting Luke Skywalker (Hamill) for the first time, in his distant place of hiding, and he is not happy to see her (at all). Rey persistently tries to convince Luke to return with her, to aid the Resistance in their great time of need, while General Leia Organa (Fisher) is harmed in an attack, and put into a coma. Poe Dameron (Isaac) concocts his own plan to get the Alliance out of danger, against the orders of the new Admiral (Dern), and he finds help from Finn (Boyega), and a new friend named Rose (Tran). Kylo Ren (Driver) also deals with his own inner struggles, in dealing with the force (and his fate), as does Rey.

The movie is surprisingly unpredictable, and filled with shocking twists. The suspense, and action scenes, are also really well done, to the extent where I was literally on the edge of my seat, throughout a good chunk of the whole movie. The humor is a little too comedic, for a 'STAR WARS' film (in my opinion), at times, but the emotional drama, and character development, is more than most fans could even ask for. There's also really effective social commentary, on corrupt government and big business, and there's even a few scenes promoting veganism, and animal rights, which I loved. Most of all, the nostalgia of the whole thing is once again breathtaking (I cried multiple times). Being a huge fan of 'STAR WARS', I was definitely more than pleased with this installment. It might not be quite as good as 'ROGUE ONE', but it's definitely one of the best films of the year, and I can't wait to see it two or three more times, in the theater!

"Detroit" Review by Tim Hellman

'DETROIT': Four and a Half Stars (Out of Five)

The new crime drama based on the racially charged Algiers Motel incident, during the 1967 12th Street riot in Detroit (the film was released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the horrific incident). The movie was directed by Kathryn Bigelow, and it was written by acclaimed journalist/screenwriter Mark Boal (the duo also performed the same duties on both 2008's Best Picture winner 'THE HURT LOCKER', and 2012's Best Picture nominee 'ZERO DARK THIRTY'). The film stars John Boyega, Will Poulter, Algee Smith, Jason Mitchell, Jacob Latimore, Hannah Murray, Kaitlyn Dever, Jack Reynor, Ben O'Toole, John Krasinski and Anthony Mackie (who also costarred in 'THE HURT LOCKER'). It's received almost unanimous positive reviews from critics, and it's also a modest hit at the Box Office as well. I found it to be extremely well made and involving.

The film begins with a police raid of a private party, in 1967 Detroit, which then resulted in multiple days of rioting. The story then centers on a police raid of the Algiers Motel, on July 25th, where police believed a sniper fired on them from. The raid resulted in the terrorizing of several black suspects, and two white women, and the deaths of some of those involved. The story then shifts to the court room battle that followed the incident.

The movie is interesting, and pretty intense, from pretty much the opening scene until the last. All of the performances are good in it as well, and of course Bigelow's direction is almost flawless. For me the film was also very educational, as I knew very little about these events in history (prior to seeing the movie). I think the film is yet another great example of what a talented filmmaker Bigelow is, and obviously her and Boal make a great team together too. It's also cool to see Boyega in another strong starring role; a 'STAR WARS' actor that's actually making a name for himself (outside of the franchise) is always good to see.

Official Poster for Kathryn Bigelow's Upcoming Film "Detroit"

Annapurna Pictures recently released the official poster for Kathryn Bigelow's (The Hurt Locker, Zero Dark Thirty) latest film "Detroit". The film stars John Boyega, Will Poulter, Algee Smith, Jacob Latimore, John Krasinski and Anthony Mackie.

"Detroit" hits theaters on August 4th.

For more information on this film, you can visit the film's official website at:  Detroit.Movie

Plot Synopsis:

From the Academy Award winning director of THE HURT LOCKER and ZERO DARK THIRTY, DETROIT tells the gripping story of one of the darkest moments during the civil unrest that rocked Detroit in the summer of '67.

"The Circle" Set to Find an Audience on DVD & Blu-Ray

Lionsgate recently released information for the upcoming DVD and Blu-Ray release of "The Circle". The film stars Emma Watson (Beauty and the Beast), Oscar® winner Tom Hanks (Best Actor, Forrest Gump, 1994), John Boyega (Star Wars: The Force Awakens), Karen Gillan (Guardians of the Galaxy), Ellar Coltrane (Boyhood), Emmy® winner Patton Oswalt (Writing for Variety Special, “Talking for Clapping,” 2016), Glenne Headly (“The Night Of”), and Golden Globe® nominee Bill Paxton (Best Actor, Television – Drama, “Big Love,” 2010).

Special features on the DVD and Blu-Ray includes “No More Secrets: Completing The Circle — A Four-Part Series” Featurette. “The Future Won’t Wait: Design and Technology” Featurette and “A True Original: Remembering Bill Paxton” Featurette.

"The Circle" hits retail on August 1st.

Press Release:

Based on the international best-seller by Dave Eggers, The Circle arrives on Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital HD) and DVD August 1 from Lionsgate; with Digital HD on July 18 and On Demand on August 1 from EuropaCorp. Capturing the phenomenon of today’s social media and the consequences of being permanently checked in, the gripping modern thriller is directed and co-written for the screen by James Ponsoldt (The Spectacular Now) and Dave Eggers (A Hologram for the King), and features an all-star cast, including Emma Watson (Beauty and the Beast), Oscar® winner Tom Hanks (Best Actor, Forrest Gump, 1994), John Boyega (Star Wars: The Force Awakens), Karen Gillan (Guardians of the Galaxy), Ellar Coltrane (Boyhood), Emmy® winner Patton Oswalt (Writing for Variety Special, “Talking for Clapping,” 2016), Glenne Headly (“The Night Of”), and Golden Globe® nominee Bill Paxton (Best Actor, Television – Drama, “Big Love,” 2010) in his final role.

When Mae (Watson) is hired to work for the world’s largest and most powerful tech and social media company, she sees it as an opportunity of a lifetime. As she rises through the ranks, she is encouraged by the company’s founder, Eamon Bailey (Hanks), to engage in a groundbreaking experiment that pushes the boundaries of privacy, ethics, and ultimately, her personal freedom. Her participation in the experiment and every decision she makes begin to affect the lives and future of her friends, family, and all of humanity.

The home entertainment release of The Circle features all-new bonus content, including three featurettes chronicling the making of the film, a look at the future of technology, and an interview with Tom Hanks and James Ponsdolt reminiscing about their work with Bill Paxton, The Circle will be available on Blu-ray and DVD for $39.99 and $29.95, respectively.

Second Trailer for Kathryn Bigelow's Newest Film "Detroit"

Annapurna Pictures recently released the second official trailer for Kathryn Bigelow's (The Hurt Locker, Zero Dark Thirty) latest film "Detroit". The film stars John Boyega, Will Poulter, Algee Smith, Jacob Latimore, John Krasinski and Anthony Mackie.

"Detroit" hits theaters on August 4th.

Plot Synopsis:

From the Academy Award winning director of THE HURT LOCKER and ZERO DARK THIRTY, DETROIT tells the gripping story of one of the darkest moments during the civil unrest that rocked Detroit in the summer of '67.

"Detroit": Official Trailer #2

Official Poster and Clips for Upcoming Thriller "The Circle"

STX Entertainment recently released the first trailer for the upcoming thriller "The Circle". The film stars Emma Watson, Tom Hanks, John Boyega, Karen Gillan, Ellar Coltrane, Patton Oswalt, Glenne Headly, and Bill Paxton.

"The Circle" hits theaters on April 28th.

For more information on this film, you can visit the film's official website at: http://thecircle.movie/.

Plot Synopsis:

The Circle is a gripping modern thriller, set in the not-too-distant future, starring Emma Watson ("Harry Potter"), Tom Hanks ("Sully") and John Boyega ("Star Wars: The Force Awakens"). When Mae (Emma Watson) is hired to work for the world's largest and most powerful tech & social media company, she sees it as an opportunity of a lifetime. As she rises through the ranks, she is encouraged by the company's founder, Eamon Bailey (Tom Hanks), to engage in a groundbreaking experiment that pushes the boundaries of privacy, ethics and ultimately her personal freedom. Her participation in the experiment, and every decision she makes begin to affect the lives and future of her friends, family and that of humanity.

"The Circle" Film Clip - Unified Systems

"The Circle" Film Clip - Unfulfilled Potential

Official Trailer for Kathryn Bigelow's Upcoming Film "Detroit"

Annapurna Pictures recently released the official trailer for Kathryn Bigelow's (The Hurt Locker, Zero Dark Thirty) latest film "Detroit". The film stars John Boyega, Will Poulter, Algee Smith, Jacob Latimore, John Krasinski and Anthony Mackie.

"Detroit" hits theaters on August 4th.

Plot Synopsis:

From the Academy Award winning director of THE HURT LOCKER and ZERO DARK THIRTY, DETROIT tells the gripping story of one of the darkest moments during the civil unrest that rocked Detroit in the summer of '67.

"Detroit": Official Trailer

Official Trailer for the Hi-Tech Thriller "The Circle"

STX Entertainment recently released the first trailer for the upcoming thriller "The Circle". The film stars Emma Watson, Tom Hanks, John Boyega, Karen Gillan, Ellar Coltrane, Patton Oswalt, Glenne Headly, and Bill Paxton.

"The Circle" hits theaters on April 28th.

For more information on this film, you can visit the film's official website at: http://thecircle.movie/.

Plot Synopsis:

The Circle is a gripping modern thriller, set in the not-too-distant future, starring Emma Watson ("Harry Potter"), Tom Hanks ("Sully") and John Boyega ("Star Wars: The Force Awakens"). When Mae (Emma Watson) is hired to work for the world's largest and most powerful tech & social media company, she sees it as an opportunity of a lifetime. As she rises through the ranks, she is encouraged by the company's founder, Eamon Bailey (Tom Hanks), to engage in a groundbreaking experiment that pushes the boundaries of privacy, ethics and ultimately her personal freedom. Her participation in the experiment, and every decision she makes begin to affect the lives and future of her friends, family and that of humanity.

"The Circle": Official Trailer

"Star Wars: The Forces Awakens" Review by Tim Hellman

'STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS': Five Stars (Out of Five)

The seventh installment in the immensely popular space opera film series; and the first chapter in over ten years. It takes place 30 years after the events of 'RETURN OF THE JEDI'; when the Galactic Empire has now become 'The First Order', and the rebel alliance has now become the 'Resistance'. The story deals with a First Order stormtrooper, named Finn, who's looking for redemption; after gaining possession of a map, to Luke Skywaler's whereabouts. The film was directed by J.J. Abrams; and it was written by Abrams, Michael Arndt and Lawrence Kasdan (who also co-wrote 'THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK' and 'RETURN OF THE JEDI'). Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Peter Mayhew, Anthony Daniels and Kenny Baker all reprise their roles, from the original trilogy; and they're joined by newcomers Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Adam Driver and Oscar Isaac. The series creator, George Lucas, returned as a creative consultant; and John Williams once again scored the music (as he did all six previous chapters, in the franchise). I think it's the most entertaining movie, I've seen, in 35 years!

We first learn that Luke Skywalker (Hamill) has gone missing; and due to his absence, the ruthless First Order has gained power, and control, over the galaxy. Princess Leia Organa (Fisher) is now a general, of the Resistance, and she believes finding Luke is humanity's only hope. She sends her best X-wing fighter pilot, named Poe Dameron (Isaac), to the desert planet of Jakku; in order to locate a map, which can lead to her brother's whereabouts. On his mission Poe meets a stormtrooper, looking for redemption, named Finn (Boyega). Finn joins Poe in his adventure; he also later teams up with a scavenger, named Rey (Ridley), and a veteran war hero, named Han Solo (Ford).

The film is definitely the best written, of the entire franchise; with clever, witty dialogue (for the first time, in the series). It also has the most humanity, and thoughtful drama (I cried multiple times). It's surreal seeing Han, Luke, Leia, Chewbacca, and other original cast members, on the big screen again (in a new movie); and I think it was justifiable asking Fisher and Hamill to lose weight, for their parts (it's necessary to the roles they're playing). The new characters are also extremely likable, and soon to be classic, as well. Ridley is a revelation, and I think she rivals Jennifer Lawrence; for one of the best performances of the year! Driver, Boyega and Isaac are all fantastic as well; and Ford is, once again, classic! The movie (without question) deserves several Oscar nominations; for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, acting and more. The approach Abrams takes, to the material, is exactly right (it's traditional, old fashioned filmmaking). The film is everything you could possibly expect (or want) from a 'STAR WARS' movie; it's funny, heartfelt, touching and action-packed. All of the best parts of the previous installments, with none of the cheese! It's at least the best in the series since 'THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK'!