"Tag" Review by Tim Hellman

'TAG': Four Stars (Out of Five)

A comedy about a group of adult men that have spent the month of May, every year, playing the game of tag since they were children. The film was directed by debut feature filmmaker Jeff Tomsic, and it was scripted by Mark Steilen and Rob McKittrick (who also wrote and directed the outstanding 2005 comedy 'WAITING'). The story was inspired by a Wall Street Journal article, written by Russell Adams. It stars Ed Helms, Jeremy Renner, Jon Hamm, Jake Johnson, Hannibal Buress, Isla Fisher, Annabelle Wallis, Rashida Jones and Leslie Bibb. It's received mostly positive reviews from critics, and it's a modest hit at the Box Office as well. It's entertaining enough I'd say.

Hoagie (Helms), Jerry (Renner), Bob (Hamm), Randy (Johnson) and Kevin (Buress) have been playing the same game of tag since they were nine-years-old, always all through the month of May. For thirty years it's the one thing that's always brought the close friend group back together. Jerry has never been tagged, and he's about to be married. So he's quitting after this year. The other friends decide to team-up, in order to obsessively try and finally tag him.

The movie has a great premise, and a great cast. It seems like Helms is cast in so many buddy comedies like this, but he never truly gets the credit he deserves for them. Renner is brilliant casting as well, and Hamm and Johnson just seem natural in their roles too. Buress is good, but he's not given enough to really do. The film is funny, but the tag scenes are a little too over-the-top for me. It feels like a slapstick action flick at times, and it's better as just a buddy comedy. The film is definitely no soon-to-be-classic (like it feels like it really wants to be), but I think it's definitely still worth seeing.

Official Trailer and Teaser Poster for the Upcoming Sequel "Creed II"

Warner Bros and MGM recently released the official trailer and teaser poster for the ucpoming film "Creed II". The film stars Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone Wood Harris, Russell Hornsby, Florian "Big Nasty" Munteanu, Andre Ward, Phylicia Rashad and Dolph Lundgren.

"Creed II" is slated to hit theaters on November 21st.

Plot Synopsis:

Life has become a balancing act for Adonis Creed. Between personal obligations and training for his next big fight, he is up against the challenge of his life. Facing an opponent with ties to his family's past only intensifies his impending battle in the ring. Rocky Balboa is there by his side through it all and, together, Rocky and Adonis will confront their shared legacy, question what's worth fighting for, and discover that nothing's more important than family. Creed II is about going back to basics to rediscover what made you a champion in the first place, and remembering that, no matter where you go, you can't escape your history.

"Creed II": Official Trailer

"Marvel Reigns Supreme" 3 Reasons why the MCU is Crushing the DCEU by Anthony T

Before I go into this column I want to let DC fans know that I’m not taking shots at the fanbase as I like DC too as well as Marvel and respect the DC fanbase but I was so infuriated at DCEU’s most recent film “Justice League” and the fact the Marvel recently released "Avengers: Infinity War" that I needed to write an analysis piece about the cinematic war between Marvel and DCEU and three reason why Marvel Cinematic Universe is crushing the DCEU because this should not be happening as competition is good and the viewers win.

Recently, I decided to rent Justice League even though the word of mouth was bad. I should have listened because this was a total disaster from start to finish. At least I did not buy the qblu-ray, unlike “Batman vs Superman”. This film rushes through everything from character development to how it sets up the conflict. It was so bad that it led to a twitter rant on my personal twitter page. Then a day later, I had the idea to write about how Marvel is succeeding while DC/ Warner Bros are falling flat.

Here are my three reasons why Marvel Cinematic Universe is better than DCEU

1. Marvel does a great job building its universe while DCEU is a rush job.

The first films to start this comic book film craze was 2008’s Iron Man and The Incredible Hulk. From there, Marvel would release “Iron Man 2 (2010), Thor (2011) and Captain America: The First Avenger (2011). If you count that’s five solo Marvel films before “The Avengers film in 2012. That’s what made the first superhero team up film feel special. On the side DC and its parent company Warner Bros didn’t start their DC universe until 2013’s “Man of Steel. It took from May 2nd,, 2008 when the first Marvel film was released to Jun 13th, 2013. That’s five years before the DCEU first film screened. They should’ve seen the signs that Marvel was making a major move in film market back after the first Iron Man film. You don’t give a competitor a five year head start in the film world and expect you’re comic universe to compete because at that point you have to go full speed ahead and the quality of the films suffer. It’s happened to all of their films except “Wonder Woman”. There was also no real build up to “Justice League”. You had “Man of Steel”, “Batman vs Superman” and “Wonder Woman” before “Justice League”. Sorry, but it’s hard to be excited for a superhero team up film when you’re missing three other films make up you’re superteam film. This made Aquaman, Cyborg, and The Flash feel like minor characters on that team instead of equal characters like they are supposed to be. It made their introductions feel so rushed that I don’t know if I care to see a standalone film of each of those characters. At least, Black Widow (Iron Man 2) and Hawkeye (Thor) made appearances before Avengers so you knew something about their characters going into Avengers. In Justice League, you’re meeting those characters for the first time which gave me no investment in those characters as their backstories were rushed.

2. Disney Stays out of Marvels way while Warner Bros has their fingerprints on DC films.

This is the main reason why Marvel does a great job. In my opinion, Disney allows the studio to control every aspect of production include choice of directors, casting and story. It allow for their films to have an authentic feel to them because most of the directors involved love the source material that their directing and it shows on screen. Never would’ve you see seen James Gunn (Slither, Super) and Taiak Waititi (What We Do in the Shadows) be in control of these films ten years ago and done a great job with their film as it looks like it’s done with little to no inference. It allows for Marvel’s characters and its films to feel special.
DC Characters on the hand don’t feel special at all. They feel dreary and dull as Warner Bros have no idea on how comic book characters work. It feels like there’s no creativity or fandom in their films. With the exception of Wonder Women, every recent DC film feels like it was made in the Warner Bros boardroom and handled by people who aren’t passionate with the source material and are there to cash a check. Warner Bros needs to stop meddling in these films and hire people who are passionate about these characters to write and direct these films and do it the same way that Marvel handles everything.

3. Marvel Making Great Out of the Box Decisions while Warner Bros give Zack Synder the Keys to Start the DCEU.

Marvel does a great job with all these out of the box decision that you wouldn’t think would work but they do it very well. Whether it’s casting or choice of directors, they’ve for the most part always have hit a home run. Whether its casting unknowns like Chris Evans, Chris Pratt or Chris Hemsworth to play three of the main characters in the their universe to hiring directors like Kenneth Branagh (Hamlet) James Gunn (Super), Anthony and Joe Russo (Welcome to Collinwood), Jon Favreau (Made) and Ryan Coogler (Fruitvale Station), you wouldn’t think could pull off a comic book film and do it so effectively or be even be associated with the Marvel Universe. But they’ve been all great additions. On the other hand, the DCEU has felt like the Zack Snyder show as he’s directed “Man of Steel”, “Batman vs Superman” and Justice League”. All of them have been failures. Thankfully, he’s being relegated to executive producer for the upcoming DCEU films but not good enough. He needs to be completely gone as the only film in the DCEU that was a hit at the box office was “Wonder Woman”. I don’t know if he’s a fan or he figures the DCEU is going to be his cash cow where he is ordered Warner executives to produce films that have no connection with movie goers and feel dreadfully dark. I know sometime Marvel’s films can be dark, but they manage to add humor to go with a dark tone. The DCEU films are very dark and brooding. That’s something that hurt both Superman and Batman which I can’t believe, since I love the character so much but Ben Affleck has been a terrible Batman. If they were going to go this way from the start, give the keys to Christopher Nolan. He knows how to do this material very well and effectively. Zack Synder does not and that is what’s hurt the DCEU.

I hope Warner Bros start have a change of mindset when approaching these films. They need make their film more entertaining instead have their superheroes be brooding characters and expect big box office numbers. That’s why their comic books are failing and why Marvel is killing the DCEU at the box office. If you want to compare something box office wise. Just compare Avengers: Infinity War’s recent opening weekend here in the United States to “Justice League” complete United States total at the box office to see why Marvel is reigning supreme at the box office and why the DCEU has been a complete failure.

Please note that I did some research on dates and film catalogs and apologies if there are any mistakes in this article. Let me know and I’ll correct them.

"Rampage" Review by Tim Hellman

'RAMPAGE': Three and a Half Stars (Out of Five)

A sci-fi monster flick based on the popular video game, of the same name (by Midway Games), about a genetic experiment gone wrong that transforms a trio of animals into destructive monsters. Dwayne Johnson stars as a primatologist who tries to rescue an infected albino gorilla, which he had bonded with, and stop the other monsters from destroying the city. The film costars Naomie Harris, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Malin Åkerman, Jake Lacy, P.J. Byrne and Joe Manganiello . It was directed by Brad Peyton (who previously teamed with Johnson on the 2015 disaster flick 'SAN ANDREAS'), and it was scripted by Ryan Engle, Carlton Cuse, Ryan J. Condal and Adam Sztykiel. The film has received mixed to negative reviews from critics, and it's expected to be a modest hit at the Box Office as well. I found it to be mildly amusing (at times) but mostly forgettable.

Davis Okoye (Johnson) is an animal loving primatologist in Rwanda, who's also the head of an anti-poaching team there. His best friend is an albino silverback gorilla named George (Jason Liles). When Davis learns that George has been infected by an unknown substance, and is growing at an alarming rate because of it, he teams with a genetic engineer, named Dr. Kate Caldwell (Harris), to try and help him. Then he learns that two other animals have been infected by the same experimental serum, and the trio are soon destroying the city. Davis does everything he can to save his friend, and stop the rampaging monsters.

My favorite parts of the movie are the animals, the animal/human relationships, and the monster fight scenes. I also found the battle scenes in the climax to be pretty amusing, and nostalgic, when they imitate the video game it's based on (which I played back in the day). All of the human stuff is mostly boring though. The Rock has a few good scenes in it, and Akerman makes a sexy femme fatale villain (Lacy is mildly amusing as her dimwitted brother too), but other than that the movie is pretty dull when it centers on the humans (and all the unnecessary plot nonsense). So some of the film is entertaining, and worth seeing, but most of it is annoying filler.

Production Starts for the Upcoming Sequel "Creed II"

Warner Bros and MGM recently announced that production has started for "Creed II". The film stars Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone and Tessa Thompson and is being executive produced by Ryan Coogler.

"Creed II" is slated to hit theaters on November 21st.

Press Release:

Production begins today in Philadelphia on Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures (MGM) and Warner Bros. Pictures' Creed II, starring Michael B. Jordan and Sylvester Stallone, reprising their roles of Adonis Creed and Rocky Balboa respectively. Creed II is the continuation of the Rocky saga and sequel to the 2015 critically acclaimed and crowd-pleasing 2015 hit Creed, which took in more than $170 million at the worldwide box office. Ryan Coogler (Black Panther), who directed the first film, returns to the franchise as an executive producer on Creed II. The new film is being directed by Steven Caple Jr., who helmed the acclaimed 2016 drama The Land.

"When I wrote and directed Creed, I wanted to tell a human story about a family from a new perspective, while also paying homage to the Rocky characters we've all grown up knowing and loving. I've known Steven was an amazing filmmaker since our days at USC film school together, so I can't wait to see what he, Sly, Mike and Tessa bring to this next chapter," said Coogler.

Caple Jr. said, "It's an honor to be a part of the franchise and work with such a thoughtful team. I got involved because I've always been a Rocky fan and I enjoy stories with heart and substance. But when Ryan put his touch on Creed I felt another level of connection to the franchise. It started to feel personal for many different reasons. This next Creed is a tale beyond the boxing ring and dives deep into family, legacy, and fears. I'm excited to share my view and collaborate with the talented cast and crew."

"Ryan and Steven are voices for their generation and their shared vision for Creed has brought the Rocky franchise to an entirely new audience. We know audiences will continue to embrace the legacy that Sly created so many years ago," said producer Irwin Winkler.

Life has become a balancing act for Adonis Creed. Between personal obligations and training for his next big fight, he is up against the challenge of his life. Facing an opponent with ties to his family's past only intensifies his impending battle in the ring. Rocky Balboa is there by his side through it all and, together, Rocky and Adonis will confront their shared legacy, question what's worth fighting for, and discover that nothing's more important than family. Creed II is about going back to basics to rediscover what made you a champion in the first place, and remembering that, no matter where you go, you can't escape your history.

Also reprising their roles from the first film are Tessa Thompson as Bianca, Phylicia Rashad as Mary Anne, Wood Harris as Tony 'Little Duke' Burton, and Andre Ward as Danny 'Stuntman' Wheeler. The new cast is rounded out with Florian "The Big Nasty" Munteanu as Viktor Drago, Dolph Lundgren returning to the role of Ivan Drago, and Russell Hornsby as Buddy Marcelle. Creed II will be distributed theatrically in the U.S. by MGM on November 21, 2018, and Warner Bros. Pictures will distribute the film internationally.

Caple Jr. directs from an original screenplay written by Stallone based on characters from the Rocky franchise. The film is produced by Irwin Winkler, Charles Winkler, William Chartoff, David Winkler, Kevin King-Templeton and Stallone. Coogler, Jordan and Guy Riedel will executive produce.

Collaborating with Caple Jr. is a creative team led by director of photography Kramer Morgenthau (Thor: The Dark World, Game of Thrones); production designer Franco Carbone (The Expendables, Billionaire Boys Club); costume designers Lizz Wolf (A Single Man, Dreamgirls); art director Jesse Rosenthal (Black Panther, Trumbo); fight coordinator Daniel Hernandez (Avengers: Infinity War, The Fate of the Furious); technical boxing advisor Robert Sale (Grudge Match, Ali); special effects coordinator Patrick White (Baby Driver, Deepwater Horizon) and VFX producer Crystal Dowd (Straight Outta Compton, Pitch Perfect 2). Filming will take place primarily in Philadelphia with additional locations in New Mexico.

Creed, directed by Coogler, was released by Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures, Warner Bros. Pictures and New Line Cinema in November 2015 and went on to garner many honors for Stallone, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture, and an Academy Award nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role.

"Ready Player One" Review by Tim Hellman

'READY PLAYER ONE': Four Stars (Out of Five)

The new sci-fi adventure from director Steven Spielberg, and based on the book (of the same name) by Ernest Cline. The film is set in a future where virtual reality is commonly used to escape the depression of the real world. A very skilled teenager competes to win control over the virtual universe, with the help of his new friends, while an evil businessman desperately tries to win control over it too. The movie was scripted by Cline and Zak Penn (who also co-wrote such other blockbuster sci-fi flicks as 'THE AVENGERS', 'THE INCREDIBLE HULK', 'X-MEN 2', 'X-MEN: THE LAST STAND' and 'LAST ACTION HERO'). It stars Tye Sheridan, Olivia Cooke, Ben Mendelsohn, Lena Waithe, T.J. Miller, Simon Pegg and Mark Rylance. The film has received mostly positive reviews from critics, and it's also expected to be a hit at the Box Office as well. I mostly enjoyed it, but I also wasn't overly thrilled.

The story is set in the year 2044, when most of the planet's population lives in poverty. They escape depression by doing most of their daily activities in a virtual reality world, called the OASIS. In this world they can be whoever they want to be, but when their avatar dies they lose everything they have, and they have to start over with nothing. The creator of OASIS, the late James Halliday (Rylance), has left behind a game challenge, in which the winner gains complete control over the virtual reality world. A corrupt businessman, named Nolan Sorrento(Mendelsohn), will do anything to win control. A teenager named Wade Watts (Sheridan), and his new rebel ally friends, will do anything to stop him.

The movie has elements of classic Spielberg adventure films in it, but it also lacks a lot of the heart and magic that made those movies so special. Spielberg tries to recapture those strengths in this film, but he's just not able to ever do it. The effects are pretty cool, but they also make the world and characters of the movie seem very distant. The characters also don't seem very developed or truly relatable. Still, technically speaking, the movie is pretty visually flawless , and it's also a lot of fun to see all of these classic movie and video game characters in one film together (but you get that just from watching the trailer). The third act is also really long and uninvolving for the most part too. I liked the film overall, to an extent, but it definitely doesn't live up to Spielberg's greatest work.

"Tomb Raider" Review by Tim Hellman

'TOMB RAIDER': Three Stars (Out of Five)

An action-adventure based on the popular 2013 video game, of the same name (both the game and the film are reboots of earlier hit series). The movie tells of the adventures of Lara Croft, now played by Alicia Vikander, as she struggles to solve the mystery of her father's sudden disappearance, 7-years earlier. The movie costars Dominic West, Walton Goggins, Daniel Wu and Kristin Scott Thomas. It was directed by Roar Uthaug, and it was scripted by Geneva Robertson-Dworet, Alastair Siddons and Evan Daugherty. The film has received mixed reviews from critics, but it's a huge hit at the international Box Office. I thought it was OK.

The story begins seven years after the disappearance of the successful archaeologist Lord Richard Croft (West). His daughter, Lara (Vikander), has still not accepted that he's likely dead, and she's now living a very carefree and wild life. Richard's business partner, Ana Miller (Scott Thomas), bails Lara out of jail, and convinces her to accept her inheritance. Lara reluctantly agrees, and upon doing so, she discovers Richard's last known whereabouts: off the coast of Japan, searching for a mythical tomb. Her fist 'tomb raiding adventure' begins, in search of her missing father.

The movie looks, and sounds, a lot more exciting than it actually is. Vikander is fantastic in the lead, and the visuals are stunning, but the film is still mostly just a bore. At least for me it was, but I'm getting more and more tired of most of Hollywood's big budget 'potential blockbuster' action movies. Some are really good, and I definitely still love a good exciting action flick (I grew-up on them), but this is not one of the especially good ones. Hopefully the first sequel is much better. I do think it's probably just as good as the Angelina Jolie films are though (although I don't remember much about them anymore).

"12 Strong" Review by Tim Hellman

'12 STRONG': Two and a Half Stars (Out of Five)

A war film about CIA Paramilitary and U.S. Special Forces who were sent to Afghanistan, immediately after the September 11th attacks, to combat Taliban soldiers there. It's based on the non-fiction book 'Horse Soldiers' by Doug Stanton, and it was scripted by Ted Tally and Peter Craig. Sophomore feature filmmaker Nicolai Fuglsig directed the movie, which stars Chris Hemsworth, Michael Shannon, Navid Negahban, Michael Pena, Trevante Rhodes, Geoff Stults, Thad Luckinbill, William Fichtner and Rob Riggle. It's received mixed reviews from critics, and it's expected to be a modest hit at the Box Office as well. I found it to be pretty dull and uninvolving.

The story begins with the September 11th terrorist attacks being witnessed on TV by Captain Mitch Nelson (Hemsworth), and his family. Mitch is eager to retaliate against those responsible, and he begs his superior officers for his Captain position back, in order to do so. Mitch, along with Chief Warrant Officer Cal Spencer (Shannon), Sergeant First Class Sam Diller (Pena), and other U.S. soldiers, are then sent to Afghanistan to attack the Taliban forces there. Once there, they partner with the leader of the alliance, General Abdul Rashid Dostum (Negahban), and quickly start to plot their revenge.

The movie looks like a fun war action flick, and I like the premise to it, but for me the film is just way too boring. I couldn't even get into the action scenes (which I'll admit happens a lot for me with recent action flicks), but the whole story, and character development, is pretty weak and uninvolving. The performances are pretty dull and uninspired too, and it's definitely a talented cast. With the exception of Navid Negahban (he's a scene stealer in it), most of the actors seem to be just there for their paychecks. I could not wait for the movie to be over, for most of it's 2 hour and 10 minute running time, but I'll admit that I'm sure some action junkies, and war film fans, will probably enjoy it. Technically speaking, the movie isn't half bad.

"Justice Leauge" Review by Tim Hellman

'JUSTICE LEAGUE': Four Stars (Out of Five)

The fifth installment in the DC Extended Universe, based on the DC comics superhero team, which unites Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, The Flash and Cyborg, for the first time on the big screen together (in an attempt for DC to imitate the success of Marvel Cinemas' 'THE AVENGERS'). DC even brought in Joss Whedon (the filmmaker behind the first two 'AVENGERS' movies) to co-write the screenplay, and direct $20 million worth of reshoots. Zack Snyder (who also helmed 'BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE', 'MAN OF STEEL', and co-wrote 'WONDER WOMAN') directed and co-wrote the film as well, with Whedon and Chris Terrio (who also co-wrote 'BATMAN V SUPERMAN'). The cast features Ben Affleck, Gal Gadot and Henry Cavill reprising their roles as Batman, Wonder Woman and Superman (from previous movies). Jason Momoa, Ezra Miller and Ray Fisher also costars as Aquaman, The Flash and Cyborg (which they previously performed cameos as, in previous films). Amy Adams, Jeremy Irons, Diane Lane, Connie Nielson and Joe Morton also reprise roles from other movies too; while J.K. Simmons and Ciaran Hinds join the cast. The story deals with the superhero team forming, after the death of Superman, to battle a new supervillain named Steppenwolf, and his army of Parademons. The film has gotten mostly positive reviews from fans so far, and some critics even like it too. I was severely disappointed with the movie, and honestly found it to be mostly a bore (sadly).

The story takes place months after the death of Superman (Cavill), and the events of 'BATMAN V SUPERMAN', when an alien army of creatures called Parademons are invading Earth. They're lead by a military officer from Apocalypse, called Steppenwolf (Hinds). Steppenwolf is on a mission to find the three powerful 'Mother Boxes', that are all hidden on Earth. Bruce Wayne (Affleck) teams with Diana Prince (Gadot) to stop the invasion. The super duo seeks out three other gifted superheroes to help them; Aquaman (Momoa), The Flash (Miller) and Cyborg (Fisher). Together they form the superhero team called 'Justice League', for the first time.

The movie is really slow-paced at first (and for most of the film actually), and I was bored out of my mind at times. There's a lot of ineffective character development, in my mind, that doesn't really help develop the characters much. The action scenes are all uninvolving, and dull, in my opinion as well. This is coming from a fan who absolutely loved 'WONDER WOMAN' and 'BATMAN V SUPERMAN' ('SUICIDE SQUAD' and 'MAN OF STEEL' too, to a lesser degree), and I have been a bigger fan of the DC Extended Universe lately even (over the MCU). I have to admit this film just doesn't work for me though. That's not to say it's bad, or overly cheesy at all (that's why I'm still giving it 4 out of 5 stars). It just really let me down. I had really high hopes though, and I still do for future DC movies (especially 'WONDER WOMAN' films). Gadot is awesome in this still, even though she's not given enough to do, and she's the scene stealer (like always) definitely. I think she deserves top billing even.

"Blade Runner 2049" Review by Tim Hellman

'BLADE RUNNER 2049': Four and a Half Stars (Out of Five)

A sequel (35-years later) to the 1982 neo-noir sci-fi classic 'BLADE RUNNER'; which was based on the short story 'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?', by Philip K. Dick. This film takes place 30-years after the original, and it revolves around a new Blade Runner, who discovers a long hidden secret which threatens their future society's way of life. He must seek out a retired Blade Runner (Harrison Ford, reprising his role from the original film), who's been missing for 30-years, in order to stop this new threat. This new chapter stars Ryan Gosling, Ford, Ana de Armas, Sylvia Hoeks, Robin Wright, Mackenzie Davis, Dave Bautista and Jared Leto. Sean Young and Edward James Olmos also have cameos in the movie, reprising their roles from the original film as well. It was directed by Denis Villeneuve (who's also helmed such critically acclaimed hits as 2013's 'PRISONERS', 2015's 'SICARIO', and 2016's 'ARRIVAL'), and it was scripted by Hampton Fancher (who also wrote the original) and Michael Green (who also co-wrote 'ALIEN: COVENANT' and 'LOGAN', from earlier this year). Scott Free Productions (ran by the original film's director, Ridley Scott) co-produced the movie. It's received rave reviews from critics (unlike the original, which was snubbed by critics when it first came out) and it's expected to be a big hit at the Box Office as well (also unlike the original, which bombed in theaters when it was released too). Some are calling it one of the best sequels ever, and one of the best films this year. I think it was really well made, and a fitting tribute to the cult classic original, but I also think it's just a little overrated too.

In the year 2049, new 'replicants' are obedient, and they serve humanity well. The old 'replicants' (from the first movie) are still rebelling against society, and they're also still being hunted down by 'Blade Runners'. While executing one 'replicant', LAPD 'Blade Runner' Officer K (Gosling) discovers a long hidden secret, that threatens their new society's way off life. He's tasked with stopping this new threat, and in order to do so he must also locate a retired 'Blade Runner', named Rick Deckard (Ford), who's been missing for 30-years.

The movie is beautifully shot, and masterfully directed. It's amazing how well Villeneuve recreates the original film's feel and style (I doubt even Ridley Scott himself could have done a better job). It's also filled with decent performances; especially Ford (reprising one of his most popular roles) and Hoeks (who makes a great cold hearted villain in it). I can definitely understand why the critics are raving about it, and it does feel like a classic sci-fi movie, but it's also extremely slow-paced; and at 2 hours and 43 minutes, it's somewhat painful to sit all the way through (in one sitting). Still, the first movie is equally slow-paced (although not nearly as long), and I know multiple people that hate the original for that reason. I think those people will also dislike this sequel, for the exact same reason. Fans of the original will all (most likely) like it though. I think it's almost as good as the 1982 classic, but not quite.

"It" Review by Tim Hellman

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

The first installment in a planned duology, based on Stephen King's popular 1986 book (of the same name); which was previously adapted into a two part TV movie miniseries in 1990 ('IT' was divided in to two chapters in the same way). This installment deals with seven children that have to fight an ancient evil being (in 1980s Derry, Maine); the sequel will deal with the children 30-years later, having to fight the same entity as adults. The movie stars Jaeden Lieberher, Bill Skarsgard, Jeremy Ray Taylor, Sophia Lillis, Finn Wolfhard (of 'STRANGER THINGS'fame), Wyatt Oleff, Chosen Jacobs, Jack Dylan Grazer and Nicholas Hamilton. 'IT' was directed by Andy Muschietti (who also helmed the hit 2013 horror flick 'MAMA'), and 'IT' was written by Chase Palmer, Cary Fukunaga, and Gary Dauberman. 'IT' has received nearly unanimous positive reviews from critics, and 'IT' is a huge hit at the Box Office as well. I absolutely loved 'IT' too.

The story (in this updated version) is set in 1989 Derry, Maine. Several children have gone missing, including Bill Denbrough's (Lieberher) 7-year-old brother George (Jackson Robert Scott). Bill and his other preteen friends, a group that calls themselves 'The Losers Club', investigate the disappearances of George and all the other kids. They find that an evil entity, known as Pennywise The Dancing Clown (Skarsgard), is responsible for all the disappearances. In order to fight the monster, they must each confront their own worst fears.

I read the book and saw the original TV miniseries, when I was a kid, and I was a big fan of both. I think this theatrical adaptation is about as good as you could expect from 'IT'. 'IT' has a great 80s style 'kids on an adventure together' feel to 'IT'. 'IT' seems effectively scary, and it's also a good 'monster flick' action movie. Pennywise is a classic villain, and I'd say this version is about as good as the 1990 one (played by Tim Curry). The film is not as classic (for me) as the 1990 one, but I can't complain about anything in 'IT'. It's also great to see an R-rated horror movie become such a huge blockbuster at the Box Office; hopefully this means will get more R-rated horror flicks (instead of the routine PG-13 ones).

"Dunkirk" Review by Tim Hellman

'DUNKIRK': Five Stars (Out of Five)

The new big-budget war film from writer/director Christopher Nolan. The movie tells the true story of the evacuation of allied soldiers (during World War II), from four different countries, that were surrounded by the German Army on the beaches of Dunkirk, France. It was filmed in Dunkirk, where the actual events took place, using real age-appropriate planes, and actual boats from that battle. The film stars Fionn Whitehead (in his feature film debut), Tom Hardy, Mark Rylance, Kenneth Branagh, Tom Glynn-Carney, Jack Lowden, Harry Styles, Aneurin Barnard, Barry Keoghan, James D'Arcy and Cillian Murphy. It's received nearly unanimous rave reviews from critics (with many calling it the best film of the year so far) and it's also another big hit at the Box Office. I think it's one of the best war films ever made.

The story takes place between May 26 and June 4th, of 1940 (in Dunkirk, France). Allied Forces (from Britain, Belgium, Canada and France) are surrounded by German soldiers, on the beaches of Dunkirk. The film follows efforts from the ground, the air, and the sea, to rescue the trapped soldiers (which was called Operation Dynamo). The whole time they're constantly attacked by the Germans (who are never seen on screen).

There's no real character development in the movie, you never know anything about their pasts (besides a few minor exceptions), because the filmmakers chose to focus solely on the event rather than specific people involved in it. I found the film to be all the more fascinating for this reason. I'm sure it will bore some viewers, but war movie fans (and history buffs) will love it; as well as most movie nerds and cinephiles. What I loved most about the film though is the drama, because it's never forced or manipulative (like most Hollywood movies are). The score is always very subtle, but really haunting, in the background; it never seems to try and make you feel anything specifically emotional for the characters. Still, the film is definitely a tear jerker, but it's more like watching something depressing in real life (to me). I think Nolan deserves every cent of his $20 million salary, he also gets 20% of the profits too (and he's now tied with Peter Jackson for the biggest payday ever for a filmmaker). The movie is definitely a masterpiece!

"The House" Review by Tim Hellman

'THE HOUSE': Four Stars (Out of Five)

The new comedy starring Will Ferrell and Amy Poehler, as a married couple that lose their daughter's college fund and then start an illegal casino to try and get it back. The movie costars Jason Mantzoukas, Nick Kroll, Ryan Simpkins, Michaela Watkins and Jeremy Renner. It was directed by Andrew Jay Cohen (in his feature film directorial debut) and it was written by Cohen and Brendan O'Brien (the duo also co-wrote 'NEIGHBORS' and 'MIKE AND DAVE NEED WEDDING DATES'). It's received mostly negative reviews from critics, and it's also disappointed at the Box Office so far. I think, for the most part, it's a pretty funny movie.

Scott (Ferrell) and Kate Johansen (Poehler) are excited that they're daughter, Alex (Simpkins), gets into the college she wants to go to, although they're sad she'll be leaving them. Then they find out that the scholarship their daughter was promised, by the city, is being taken away to fund a swimming pool for everyone. Their neighbor, and best friend Frank (Mantzoukas), is about to lose his house, and his wife (Watkins) left him. So Frank convinces the couple to help him run a casino, in his house, to raise the money they need to send their daughter to college still, and to help him keep his house. Scott and Kate reluctantly agree to the crazy idea.

I wasn't expecting a lot from this film, due to the reviews and I haven't loved the last few Will Ferrell movies, but it's surprisingly funny. It's definitely over-the-top and completely ridiculous, it's also really dark as well in places. So I'm sure some viewers will definitely not enjoy it, but I thought it was hilarious in places. It's definitely not all laugh-out-loud funny, but it has a lot of great moments. I was mostly impressed.

"Wonder Woman" Review by Tim Hellman

'WONDER WOMAN': Five Stars (Out of Five)

The new superhero film based on the classic DC Comics character (of the same name), and the fourth movie in the DC Extended Universe. It's an origin story starring Gal Gadot as the titular character (a role she previously played in last year's 'BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE'). In this film she's an Amazon princess (in the year 1918) that aids an American pilot who crash lands on her home island of Themyscira (a place only inhabited by Amazonian women). She helps him try to stop the German Empire, from conquering the world during World War I, and she must leave her home for the first time in order to do so; by traveling with the pilot to London (where she becomes Wonder Woman for the first time). The film costars Chris Pine, Connie Nielson, Robin Wright, David Thewlis, Danny Huston and Elena Anaya. It was directed by Patty Jenkins (who also helmed the 2003 critically acclaimed female serial killer flick 'MONSTER') and it was written by Allan Heinberg, Zack Snyder (who also co-produced the movie) and Jason Fuchs. The blockbuster was made on a budget of $149 million, and it's the first summer tent pole superhero film directed by a woman. It's also received nearly unanimous rave reviews from critics, it was voted the most anticipated summer blockbuster of 2017 as well (in a recent pole), and it's exceeded all expectations at the Box Office (including becoming the biggest opening weekend ever for a film directed by a woman). I think it's one of the best superhero movies ever made.

The story begins in modern day, with Wonder Woman (Gadot) recollecting on her past as a young Amazonian princess named Diana (Emily Carey). Diana is taught to be a powerful warrior, in case the God of War ever returns to the hidden island they live on. A United States Army Air Service Captain, named Steve Trevor (Pine), crash lands on their island and is being pursued by German military forces. After stopping the attacking soldiers, the Amazonian people interrogate Steve. They then learn about the war, and the threat it poses to the entire planet. Diana feels that it's her duty to go with Steve, and defeat the God of War (if she can find him).

The film is a heck of a lot of fun; it's action-packed and the 'fish out of water' comedy scenes are hilariously classic (they're really well done). The movie is also surprisingly emotional, I even cried a little towards the end of the film. They couldn't have found a better director than Jenkins to direct this movie too. She really knows the character well, and she has a lot of passion for telling her story obviously. They couldn't have cast a better actress than Gadot in the title role either. She's perfect as Wonder Woman, and I think she gives the best performance of the year (so far). She's definitely a huge movie star waiting to happen; she's breathtakingly gorgeous and amazingly talented as well. I'm amazed at how much I actually love this film (I wasn't even excited to see it until recently too). It really blew me away, and I'm really happy with the progress it's helped advance for women in film!

"The Lego Batman Movie" Review by Tim Hellman

'THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE': Five Stars (Out of Five)

A spin-off to 2014's blockbuster computer-animated hit 'THE LEGO MOVIE', focusing solely on the DC comics character Batman (and his world). It was directed and co-written (with 4 other screenwriters) by Chris McKay (a regular director of the animated TV series'ROBOT CHICKEN'), and Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (the directors and co-writers of 'THE LEGO MOVIE') served as producers on this film. The movie stars the voice talents of Will Arnett (reprising his role as Batman, from 'THE LEGO MOVIE'), Michael Cera (Arnett's costar from the popular TV series 'ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT'), Zach Galifianakis, Rosario Dawson, Ralph Fiennes, Jenny Slate, Hector Elizondo, Doug Benson, Zoe Kravitz, Conan O'Brien, Jason Mantzoukas, Billy Dee Williams (reprising his role as Harvey Dent, from the 1989 live action 'BATMAN' movie) and many others. It's produced by Warner Animation Group and DC Entertainment, and it's of course based on the 'Batman' DC comic books and the Lego Construction Toys. The film has received nearly unanimous rave reviews from critics, and it's expected to be a huge hit at the Box Office. I loved it as well.

Batman (Arnett) is becoming more and more of a loner; and he fears getting close to anyone, because he doesn't want to lose them (like he did his parents). He accidentally adopts an orphan, named Robin (Cera), and Alfred (Fiennes) encourages him to bond with the boy. At the same time The Joker (Galifianakis) is plotting something, and the new Commissioner, Barbara Gordon (Dawson), wants to work with Batman to stop him. Batman of course rejects her help.

The film is once again hilarious, like the original Lego movie, and it also, once again, has some great psychology; possibly the best of any 'BATMAN' movie. The characters are all really well developed, as well, and they're perfectly cast too (especially Arnett, once again). At first the drama feels forced, but it's also always comedic, and by the end of the film, it's also quite touching. The movie pretty much has it all, just like the first one, and it works on every level. It's also a really well made kids' film, that also appeals to adults (equally as well). The movie is definitely a 5 star film (just like the first one is).

"Live By Night" Review by Tim Hellman

'LIVE BY NIGHT': Three and a Half Stars (Out of Five)

The new crime drama from writer/co-producer/director Ben Affleck (who also stars in the movie). It's based on the 2012 novel (of the same name) by Dennis Lehane; who also wrote 'GONE BABY GONE' (which Affleck also directed the film adaptation of). Leonardo DiCaprio, who was originally supposed to star in the movie, also served as a co-producer on the film. The mob flick costars Elle Fanning, Sienna Miller, Zoe Saldana, Chris Messina, Brendan Gleeson and Chris Cooper. It tells the story of the son of a respected Boston police captain, and a World War I veteran, who becomes a notorious gangster (during the 1920s and 1930s). The film was originally expected to be another possible awards contender, for Affleck, but it hasn't received many overly positive reviews from critics. Despite being a fan of Affleck, as a director and an actor, I wasn't that impressed either.

The story begins in Boston, during the 1920s. Joe Coughlin (Affleck) is a World War I veteran, who's now an Irish criminal. He's also the son of the Boston police captain (Gleeson), and having an affair with the mistress (Miller) of a powerful Irish gangster, named Albert White (Robert Glenister). Joe is nearly killed by White, and then arrested for the death of three police officers; during a crime he committed with his partner Dion Bartolo (Messina). After serving three years in prison, he goes back into a life of crime, in Florida. He continues to get himself into more trouble there, while also becoming a successful gangster himself.

I've really enjoyed all three of Affleck's other directorial efforts ('THE TOWN', 'GONE BABY GONE' and 'ARGO'), so I definitely had high hopes for this; sadly it didn't live up to my expectations (and the reviews, and Box Office, have absolutely no effect on my opinion). The movie is beautifully shot, and Affleck did another excellent job directing the film; but his acting performance is definitely not one of his best. The other actors all give decent performances in the movie though, and there's some pretty cool actions scenes in it. The pacing is a little slow though,

"War Dogs" Review by Tim Hellman

'WAR DOGS': Four Stars (Out of Five)

The new 'men behaving badly' comedy flick from writer/director/producer Todd Phillips (the man who also brought us 'OLD SCHOOL','ROAD TRIP', 'DUE DATE' and all three 'HANGOVER' movies). The film is based on a Rolling Stone article, by Guy Lawson, about two twenty-something arms dealers, that land a U.S. contract to supply weapons to Afghanistan military forces. Phillips directed, co-produced and co-wrote the movie; with Stephen Chin and Jason Smilovic. It stars Miles Teller, Jonah Hill, Ana de Armas, Kevin Pollak and Bradley Cooper (who also co-produced the flick). The movie's received mixed reviews from critics, and it's done mildly well at the Box Office. I liked it, but it's definitely no 'HANGOVER' (it is far better than it's two sequels though).

David Packouz (Teller) was working (unhappily) as a massage therapist, in Miami Beach during the Iraq War. His girlfriend Iz (Armas) unexpectedly became pregnant, and David decided he desperately needed a new source of income. So when he runs into his old childhood friend, Efraim Diveroli (Hill), at another old friend's funeral, he learns he can make a lot of money selling guns to the U.S. military (like Efraim already is). The two form a partnership, and get rich (really fast), but they also run into some serious problems.

The movie is only loosely based on true events; a lot of it is entirely made up (which makes for a more entertaining film, of course). It's nice to see Phillips branching out as a filmmaker (and I really wasn't impressed with the two 'HANGOVER' sequels), and it's also cool to see Hill playing somewhat of a villain. Teller is perfectly cast as the relatable lead, but he's capable of much more than this though ('WHIPLASH' is one of the greatest movies ever made, in my opinion). This film is fun (at times), and kind of interesting. It's a little too dark, to be a lot of fun though, and a little too light, to be really interesting (in a very serious way, anyway). The performances are good though.

"Suicide Squad" Review by Tim Hellman

'SUICIDE SQUAD': Five Stars (Out of Five)

The highly anticipated superhero flick, based on the DC comics antihero team (of the same name). It's also the third movie in the DC Extended Universe film franchise (following 'MAN OF STEEL' and 'BATMAN V SUPERMAN'), and Ben Affleck even reprises his role as Batman in it. The film stars Will Smith, Margot Robbie, Joel Kinnaman, Jared Leto, Viola Davis, Jay Hernandez, Jai Courtney, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Karen Fukuhara, Cara Delevingne, Ike Barinholtz and Scott Eastwood. It was written and directed by David Ayer. The story revolves around an unlikely team of formerly imprisoned supervillains, that are recruited by a secret government agency; to go on a special black ops mission to save the world. The film received mostly negative reviews from critics, but (most) fans of the comic book insist it's a masterpiece. I absolutely loved it!

The story focuses around a government program, conceived and executed by U.S. intelligence officer Amanda Waller (Davis), in which imprisoned dangerous criminals are selected to be a part of a special black ops team. They're promised a reward of clemency, if they succeed; and threatened with immediate execution, if they try to escape. They're mission is to stop a powerful mystic force, and it's lethal army. The 'bad guys' that make up the team, surprisingly bond in the process.

The movie is undeniably fun! It's dark, violent, and sometimes quite disturbing (much like 'BATMAN V SUPERMAN'); but it's also hilarious, and highly entertaining. There's some really interesting character development (throughout), and the performances are outstanding (especially Robbie and Leto). The action scenes are kind of by-the-numbers, but they're also involving (because the characters are so likable). My only real compliant with the film, is that's it's too quickly edited; probably due to studio demands (to make the movie shorter and faster-paced). I'm sure an extended director's cut would make it nearly perfect (like the extended cut of 'BATMAN V SUPERMAN')!

"Lights Out" Review by Tim Hellman

'LIGHTS OUT': Four Stars (Out of Five)

Supernatural horror flick; about a violent spirit, which can't survive in the light, that's stalking a young woman and her brother. The film was produced by horror master James Wan, and it was directed by first time feature filmmaker David F. Sandberg. It was written by Eric Heisserer, and it's based on Sandberg's 2013 short film (of the same name). The movie stars Teresa Palmer, Gabriel Bateman, Maria Bello, Alexander DiPersia and Billy Burke. It's surprisingly received (mostly) good reviews from the critics, and it's also performed admirably well at the Box Office (so far). I enjoyed it.

The movie tells the story of a young woman, named Rebecca (Palmer). Rebecca learns that her unstable mother (Bello) is off her medication again. Her brother, Martin (Bateman), is struggling at school because of it; due to the fact that he's getting very little sleep. Rebecca brings Martin home to her house, and she soon learns that he's being haunted by an evil spirit; which can only survive in the dark.

The film is a little clichéd, and routine (in story); but it's also really well made, and filled with great haunting imagery. The concept (of a ghost that can't survive in the light) plays out really well, in frightening imagery. The film is scary, and the performances are all decent (except for maybe the young boy). The fact that the script, and characters, might be a little poorly written, doesn't effect the suspense quality of the movie. If you're looking for good scares, that's probably what you'll get.

Fantasia 2016: Official Stills and Trailer the Upcoming Chiller "Lights Out"

New Line Cinema and Warner Bros recently released stills and the officials for the upcoming chiller "Lights Out". The film is based on the short horror film by David F. Sandberg, who also directs this film and is being executive produced by James Wan (The Conjuring 2, Saw). It stars Teresa Palmer, Gabriel Bateman, Maria Bello and Billy Burke.

The film is a special screening and will take place on July 20th at 7PM at the SGWU Alumni Auditorium (Hall Theatre)in Montreal QC.

For more information on this film, you can goto : http://www.lightsoutmovie.com/

Plot Synopsis:

From producer James Wan (THE CONJURING and INSIDIOUS franchises) comes a tale of an unknown terror that lurks in the dark. When Rebecca (Teresa Palmer) left home, she thought she abandoned her childhood fears. Growing up, she was never really sure of what was and wasn’t real when the lights went out… and now her little brother, Martin (Gabriel Bateman), is experiencing the same unexplained and terrifying events that had once tested her sanity and threatened her safety. A frightening entity with a mysterious attachment to their mother, Sophie (Maria Bello), has reemerged. But this time, as Rebecca gets closer to unlocking the truth, there is no denying that all their lives are in danger… once the lights go out.

"Lights Out": Official Trailer