Some moments define your place in history books in more ways than one. It could be a speech, an act of service, or simply standing for something bigger than yourself. But sometimes, the people or the cause you fight for may not be as "patriotic" as they appear. The question is: What part will you play in the reshaping of the new world as someone from the old one? On this day 10 years ago, Marvel Studios released the 9th entry in the MCU and I don't think it can be understated how vital this film was to the franchise at the time. Billed as a high-stakes political thriller, there is no denying that for many fans Captain America: The Winter Solider is one of the MCU's greatest entries. For me, I regard this film as my #1 favorite MCU film, my favorite superhero movie, and one of my favorite films of all time. Needless to say, I LOVE THIS MOVIE!!! There are so many elements at play that make this film work on multiple levels. I can't stress enough how well-executed every aspect of this film is. From its characters, impeccable pacing, jaw-dropping action set pieces and fight choreography, top-tier writing, and one of the most game-changing twists in the history of the MCU, the movie was instrumental in turning me into a die-hard Marvel fan. In this post, I wanted to effectively give this movie its flowers and simply celebrate a film that was so influential to me in various ways.
After Steve Rodgers' MCU debut in 2011's Captain America: The First Avenger and his role in 2012's The Avengers, the announcement of a second standalone Captain America film raised the question: How do we make a character like Steve Rodgers complex and nuanced despite his boy scout aura? This was a challenge that directors Anthony and Joe Russo took to heart when they signed on. It was amazing that their first foray into the MCU left such an impact on the franchise left such an incredible mark. The Russo bros had an understanding of what made Captain America so great and they could take someone with his ideals and how to construct his arc as he constantly grips being a man out of time. It creates an interesting arc for Steve. Despite all he put himself through to become the man he is today, all he wanted to do was to serve his country. He never really thought about life after. It's a shadow that hangs over him for the rest of the Infinity saga but it starts right here. Lucky for him, there is someone who is his guide through these feelings both mental and psychological.
It is hard to find a more perfect introduction to former paratrooper Sam Wilson, portrayed by Anthony Mackie. For me, Sam's introduction is one of my favorites in the MCU just because of the merits of which he is presented. He is completely normal compared to Steve but the 2 of them hit it off instantly thanks to the mutual respect they have for each other. It is incredibly humanizing to see that despite being from 2 different times, they know that the trials of being a soldier are universal and run deep. As a person of color, Sam Wilson's inclusion is just the start of a long list of incredible contributions that the MCU made to bring more representation to mainstream media. Sam became such an integral part of the story and was equally instrumental in helping in the climax. It's no secret he became a fan favorite and is now at the forefront of the MCU's newest phase of worldbuilding.
While we are on the subject of worldbuilding, what puts this film above so many for me is what it did to the MCU as a whole at the time. It is rare when a film takes everything you think you know about something and flips it in a way where you are in utter disbelief. The reveal of HYDRA being secretly embedded within SHIELD sent shockwaves through me upon viewing. It was one of the greatest twists I have ever seen on film. I was already on edge thanks to the sense of unease and tension following the "assassination" of Nick Fury, but the twist added an extra layer of high stakes and tragedy to the narrative that truly made me question how this would affect the MCU moving forward. This twist changed the outlook of a lot of characters including Natasha who saw a reinvigoration of her character that elevated her above the perceived eye candy of the Avengers. She has a newfound conviction and a desire to do what is right when her institution turns out to be corrupt. She and Steve develop a relationship based on trust and mutual respect for one another as they both navigate a world that has turned everything they believe on its head.
This is a testament to the writing and pacing. There is not a second of this film that is wasted. Every moment builds to this and when the moment happens, you are breathless as you think back to everything and everyone you've seen and how they are now seen in a different light. The perfect example of this is how the film affected another MCU property that was occurring at the same time. Agents of SHIELD, which premiered just 8 months prior, was significantly affected by the events of this movie. The connective tissues that tied in with the movie truly made the experience of watching both back-to-back such a game-changer for me in terms of how I consumed pop culture media. Before Disney +, Agents of SHIELD was the only place I could try and get an MCU fix in between movies. This was such a game changer for me as it caused me to be fully invested in the happenings of the MCU from that point on. To put it bluntly, Agents of SHIELD and Captain America The Winter Soldier were instrumental in turning me into a full-on Marvel fan. After that, anything Marvel put out I was willing to give a chance to. I never experienced anything like this in all my years of consuming pop culture. Even years later, I still point to this as the moment when my love for this Cinematic Universe became locked in.
Despite all of that, the reason I love this movie so much is simply because...It's an amazing action movie. Its writing, pacing, and character development are all incredible aspects that deserve to be highlighted. But the film is an absolute blast from an action standpoint. The amount of standout set pieces is so well spread out and diverse. They vary in scale but are all expertly shot and choreographed with such precision and frenetic fluidity that is unmatched compared to the other films in Phase 2. Seeing Steve get nasty with it during the Lemurian Star infiltration at the start of the film was such a jarring yet irresistibly fun reintroduction to the character. It made him a more formidable fighter amongst the Avengers and showed he was more than capable of leading in a fight. Another favorite sequence of mine is the elevator scene at SHIELD headquarters. When I tell you this is one of the purest examples of how to perfectly build tension and deliver when the moment arrives to have action transpire. With every new goon comes the realization that something is wrong. It also showcases the emotional intelligence of Cap as he reads the room and understands the situation he is in. But despite the circumstances, Steve is never one to not display manners which leads to the greatest pre-fight line in the MCU.
NO NOTES!!! It is a perfect illustration of Steve's humility but a stern warning of what these men are about to get themselves into. the rest of the sequence following that line is brutal, claustrophobic, and full-on hilarious, especially the final shot. The Russo's impeccable understanding of characterization and building anticipation and paying it off is one of the reasons why they are amongst the greatest directors to come into the MCU. But if we are going to talk about action, I would be remiss if I didn't mention the amazing fight between The Winter Soldier and Steve.
This is an exercise in frenetic fluidity. The speed and power of these two characters trading blows is so much fun to watch and is shot in a way that truly captures the intensity of the brawl. The entire sequence is amazing with every aspect of it leaving you on edge. the artistry on display is impeccable with the fight being like a mini roller coaster ride that leaves little opportunity to catch your breath. The sequence ends with the reveal of Bucky being the Winter Soldier adding even more personal stakes to Steve's ongoing arc. It also paints Bucky as a tragic victim and pawn in the game of those he was unlucky enough to encounter. In the end, he takes the first steps in reclaiming his identity that won't be fulfilled until 2021's The Falcon and The Winter Solider. Sebastian Stan plays the character wonderfully and his chemistry with Evans made the emotional toll of the reveal hit harder. This made Bucky Barnes one of the most complex and nuanced characters in the MCU and a bonified fan favorite among many. Full marks for an incredible antagonist.
To say that I adore this film would be an understatement. Even a full decade later, it still never loses its entertainment value or staying power. For me, Captain America The Winter Soldier is one of the most important films in the MCU because of what it did for the franchise as a whole. It made Steve Rodgers a beloved member of the Avengers, introduced an awesome new character in Sam Wilson who is now on pace to be our new Captain America, reinvented Natasha Romanoff, and forever changed the trajectory of the MCU thanks to its game-changing plot. But mostly, I'm grateful for this film for it inspired me to fully invest in the MCU and I've been thankful ever since. People may have their favorites in this cinematic heroverse, but I will always ride with this outstanding superhero flick to the end of the line.
Dune Part 2 & The Dangers of Religious Weaponization
In trying times, faith can be a powerful thing to hold onto. But it can also be a dangerous double-edged sword. On one hand, it can get you through tribulations that push you to the brink. Contrastingly, it can also make you vulnerable to methods of manipulation by those looking to use your faith to fuel their desires or conquest. Faith is powerful, but how one allows it to influence what one does can be the difference between salvation and destruction. In Dune Part 2, released last week, religious conditioning and manipulation of the masses is a central topic within the narrative as it relates to Paul Atredies’ rise to being the supposed messiah of Arakkis. In this Porter Report, I want to dive deeper into the motivations and tactics of the people around Paul and how they use his potential legend to fuel the fires of liberation and potential galactic disarray.
Spoilers for the film will follow. You have been warned.
Ever since arriving in Arakkis, Paul Atredies feels his presence has created a shift in the foundation of the planet. The indigenous population of the Fremen sees his presence as the long-awaited arrival of the Lisan al Giab, the prophesied messiah predestined to lead them to the promised land. Though it is merely brushed off as simple religious-based pomp and circumstance, Paul doesn't see how substantial his presence is until he travels with the Fremen to Sietch Tabr. While a good majority see him as nothing more than a spy sent to bring chaos to their home, a substantial amount of of Fremen see him as the Lisan al Giab finally coming to lead them to the promised land. Chief among them is Stilgar. As one of the oldest members of the Fedaykin, Stilgar is heavily convinced that Paul is the messiah that the Fremen have been waiting for. Even going as far as to pass off Paul saying he isn't the Lisan al Giab as mere humbleness and humility in addition to sending him out into the desert for several days alone. While Stilgar and the older members of the Fremen hold strong to this belief, the same cannot be said for the younger generation.
For Chani and the younger members of the Fremen, they are not as eager to buy into the prophecy as their older counterparts. In fact, they outright reject the idea of a messiah or a prophecy seeing it as a method to maintain psychological control over their people. Chani's concerns lie in making sure that Paul is properly taught the ways of their people so he can survive among them. Paul, who has dismissed the claims of him being who the Fremen think he is, simply wants to fight alongside the Fremen and earn their respect the right way. Over time, he does gain the admiration of his newfound family and is instrumental in them really turning the tide in the fight against House Harkonnen. He further cements his status as a true Fremen when he successfully calls a sandworm and rides one. This event does hold significance for both parties of Fremen. The younger generation is thrilled to have a new brother in arms to go to battle with. But for the older generation, it is further cementing Paul as the Lisan al Giab given that the sandworm he called and tamed was a grandfather worm, one of the largest on the planet. It's evident that the religious divide amongst the Fremen is more than just a generational thing. It is centuries of old traditions being challenged by those who believe that their people have been subjected to a form of conditioning and submission meant to keep the Fremen in their place. To better understand this, we have to point the finger at the culprits of this. The Bene Gesserit.
Tasked with "spreading the gospel" across the galaxy, the Bene Gesserit can be seen as the primary source of many of the Fremen's foundational religious practices. The Bene Gesserit are all about control and make it their mission to have a hand in everything. This is one of the reasons they are antagonistic towards Lady Jessica and Paul. Lady Jessica teaching Paul the voice, a power only the Bene Gesserit believe they should possess, was seen as a major betrayal amongst the organization. Paul possessing this power makes him less likely to be controlled thus making him a potential threat to any plans they have laid out. But Paul's ascendency to god status seems to be all part of the plans of one Lady Jessica.
After taking ownership of the title of Reverend Mother, Lady Jessica has made it her mission to keep Paul safe. At least that is what it looks like on the surface. Drinking the water of life gave Jessica (and her unborn daughter Alia) the ability to foresee the future and secure one where they could prosper. But as the old saying goes, old habits die hard. Sticking to her Bene Gesserit programming, she makes it her mission to convince the Fremen that Paul is the Lisan al Giab allowing them to follow him into the fire no matter the cost. Unfortunately, Paul sees this as merely a method of religious conditioning as opposed to her claim of "giving people hope." Paul has addressed in the past that where sees a future where he leads the Fremen (and more specifically Chani) to destruction. It's the very reason he is hesitant to go south for that may be the starting point of this chain reaction of death he fears will transpire. Jessica still plays on the notion that Paul must follow her example and drink the water of life so he can "see" what she sees. After conditioning the younger and easily swayed Fremen of the north, she heads south and fully indoctrinates the entire southern Fremen population into buying into Paul's status as the Messiah. After Paul drinks the water of life and declares himself Lisan al Giab, the pieces are in place for him to truly become the most powerful being in the galaxy.
Unfortunately, one person who isn't thrilled with the chain of events is Chani who chastises Lady Jessica for further condemning her people to a life of religious servitude under the pretense of a bogus prophecy. Her duty is to the Fremen, not to a messiah born from fabricated stories from power-hungry witches. Chani's overall outlook on the prophecy of the Lisan al Giab can be interpreted in real-life context to actual religions. Whether it's Christianity, Islam, or Buddhism, religion is a powerful thing for people to hold on to for hope and guidance. It can also be used as a method of psychological control and manipulation if in the hands of those with ulterior motives. This goes back to our earliest history as a species. For some people, their beliefs were never our default beliefs. Some were forced upon them against their will by those who wielded great power over them, physically or intellectually, to keep them "chained" and obediently submissive. Chani says it as much at the southern sietch: "This prophecy is how they enslave us!!!"
She can see through the deception and blatant manipulation of those around her and begs her people to think for themselves. While she follows the rest of the Fremen into battle against the Emperor, it is clear that Paul has completely bought into being the messiah figure that has been propagandized among the Fremen and will do whatever is necessary to maintain stability within the imperium. Even going as far as to take Princess Irulan as his "wife". Chani stands firm in her belief that the Fremen are better when fighting for the good of their own as opposed to fighting for a figurehead. Her dedication to her people is evident and she chooses to not be a pawn in the game of those who see her people as manipulable pieces on a board. She leaves behind the Fremen who choose to align with Paul in his campaign against the other houses rejecting the notion she is just another piece in someone else's game.
Regardless of the intent of Lady Jessica, Paul has become the lightning rod of an inevitable holy war that will pit him and his followers against the other houses across the cosmos. It's a powerplay that puts Jessica above the other members of the Bene Gesserit and makes Paul the catalyst for a new era. Ironically, Paul's vision of a war in his name has inadvertently come true. The only difference is his hubris has him convinced he has control of the outcome in the end. Only time will tell if the rise of the Lisan al Giab signals the beginning of greener pastures or the start of a bloody galactic culling. A holy reckoning is coming. Who survives judgment will be a journey in itself.
Welcome Followers to Day 1 of 365!!! 2024 is here and the excitement for what is coming our way is immense. The landscape of Hollywood is radically different just a year removed from 2023. It will be interesting to see how things play out but the amount of silver screen content on the horizon has me giddy for what is to come. There is a lot to cover but lets begin with our top storylines heading into 2024 before diving into my personal list of films you should be on the lookout for in the new year.
The 2023 WGA/SAG-AFTRA Strikes had a significant impact on the 2024 film slate with several high profile projects originally set for this year being pushed back to 2025. In addition to that, the dry returns at the box office in the later portion of last year puts into question which films in 2024 will ultimately break the $1 million dollar mark. Here's hoping things can get back to semi-normal as we progress through the rest of the new year.
For the first time since 2017, Kong and the simeians of the Planet of the Apes franchise find themselves front and center as two of 2024s biggest Hollywood events. Kong teams with his former foe Godzilla in Kong x Godzilla The New Empire while a new generation of apes takes center stage in Kingdom of the Planet of The Apes. Both of these films have a ton of potential to be showstoppers when the eventually hit theaters. There are some roaring good times ahead for these "apetastic" offerings.
Does anyone truly know what they're doing when they get into something they believethey're ready for? Going in wet behind the ears or worse being unprepared for what lies ahead can be a stressful situation. 2 2024 films will tackle people who get more than they bargained for when they are called upon to step up and be heroes. Matthew Vaughn's Argylle sees shy and introverted author Elly Conway thrust into the world of spies while David Leitch's The Fall Guy sees a past his prime stuntman pushing himself to the limit in his search for the action star that is important to the survival of his ex-girlfriend's movie. Will they rise to the challenge or will they falter and suffer a brutal end?
Superhero films took a huge hit last year in terms of its standing in pop culture. Heavyweights like Marvel and DC really struggled in terms of delivering quality content with the exception of a few bright spots. 2024 sees both studios taking semi-hiatuses. The MCU will only have 1 lone film releasing this year which is the much anticipated Deadpool 3 while DC is busy shifting its focus to the inevitable launch of James Gunn's DCU. There will still be some superhero releases coming in 2024 such as 3 films from Sony's Shared Spider-Man Universe, and the sequel to 2019's Joker as part of the DC Elseworld brand. Overall though, the mainline brands look to be taking a step back to restraigize and come back stronger and more focused later. It may be for the best. Looking forward to seeing how it all plays out in this unofficial gap year for the genre's big players.
Now let's dive into my 10 movies I cannot wait to see in 2024
#1
Page Master
Imagination is a powerful tool especially when you're an author. It allows you to manifest worlds that people only dream of. But what if your fictional world somehow has convenient parallels to the real world particularly that of the world of international espionage. Acclaimed author Elly Conway finds herself tangled in the web of a war in the shadows when it is revealed that the stories written in her novels are actually coming true. Unsure if its sheer coincidence or prophecy, Conway and her undercover agent Aiden must survive the onslaught of chaos coming their way to ensure she lives to write another day. Matthew Vaungh prepares to take audiences on a twisty action adventure filled with humor, mayhem, and most importantly, an adorable cat in a backpack. Bryce Dallas Howard, Henry Cavill, Dua Lipa, Sam Rockwell, Samuel L Jackson, Ariana DeBose, Bryan Cranston, and John Cena healing an all star cast in the ultimate date movie for the season of love. You want to read every inch of this pageturner when Argylle arrives in cinemas on February 2nd.
Everyone knows that New York can have some scorching summers. But this summer promises to be one of the most "chilling" yet. On what is supposed to be one of the hottest days of the summer of the year, New York has now been engulfed with a deadly aura of ice and frost. The culprit is an ancient entity known as the Death Chill who has the devastating ability to litterly freeze its victims to death. With the survival of the big apple hanging in the balance, the Ghostbusters, fresh off of their reactivation years prior, must answer the call to unfreeze their home and thaw out the threat that threatens those around them. Followup to 2021's legacy sequel, Mckenna Grace, Finn Wolfhard, Carrie Coon, Celeste O'Connor and Paul Rudd return alongside original cast members Ernie Hudson, Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd in the next chapter of this new phase in the Ghostbusters cinematic franchise. Bust out the jackets for this ghostly hunt when Ghostbusters Frozen Empire arrives on March 29th.
Check Out The Official Trailer
#4
Monstars
Years have past since Kong returned to his place of origin. There he has thrived with little to no resistance or challenge. But that may soon change thanks to the arrival of an unexpected new adversary. Known simply as Scar King, this massive but immensely powerful ape seems poised to push Kong to his limit in every facet of the imagination. Luckily for Kong, it appears he won't be walking into this fight on his own thanks to the reemergence of a former foe turned ally. The next chapter in Legendary's Monsterverse, Kong and Godzilla now find themselves on the same side as they face one of the Monsterverse's most terrifying enemies. It's a whole new empire on the horizon when Godzilla x Kong The New Empire stomps into theaters on April 12th
Check Out The Latest Official Trailer
#5
Out Here Stuntin
The film industry is cutthroat to the core. This leaves very little room for relationship or coddeling. Unfortunately, sometimes circumstances bring people together. New director Jody is trying to get her blockbuster film off the ground which is stressful enough already. But the job becomes more difficult when one of the crew members is her ex-boyfriend Colt Seavers who is serving as the film's primary stuntman. When the star of the film turns up missing, Colt goes on a more-than-he-bargined-for mission to save the production and the career of the girl he still has feelings for. David Leitch opens up the 2024 Summer Movie Season with an action comedy that hits close to home knowing his beginnings as a stunt performer himself. Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, and Winston Duke headline an explosive action thriller filled with laughs, action and plenty of tension between former lovers. Watch the fireworks fly when The Fall Guy arrives in theaters on May 3rd.
Check Out The Latest Official Trailer
#6
Kingdom on The Rise
3 centuries have passed since the release of the devastating ALZ-113 virus. The act of playing god has backfired on humanity with them being regressed to near extinction while their simien counterparts have take the mantle of being the dominant species on the planet. Following in the teachings of legendary ape liberator Ceaser, a new generation of apes are on the cusp of shaping the future of their world and what this kingdom will represent for all of ape and human kind. Set 300 years after the events of 2017s War for The Planet of The Apes, Maze Runner director Wes Ball ushers in the next chapter of the iconic sci-fi franchise with a new set of characters that could potentially bring the series closer to the timeline of the original 1960s series. A new era is dawning for earth when Kingdom of the Planet of The Apes arives in cinemas on Memorial Day weekend.
Check Out The Official Trailer
#7
High Emotion
Riley is growing up so fast. Having finally adjusted to her new home, it seems like thing are finally going to be peaceful for Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, and Disgust right?..right?! Fresh off Riley's 13th birthday, the emotions within Riley find that they are about to get some new residents that will make their command center more crowded and chaotic. Nearly a decade after the Academy Award winning film, Pixar Animation Studios transports audiences back into Riley's subconscious to reunite with her OG emotions as well as her new residents that will make this new phase of growing up quite the emotional roller coaster. Amy Poehler, Lewis Black, and Phyllis Smith all return alongside Tony Hale as Fear, Liza Lapira as Disgust, and Maya Hawke as new emotion Axiety and all of her extensive baggage. It's about to get real crowed in here when Inside Out 2 arrives in theaters on June 14th.
Check Out The Official Trailer
#8
Not A Peep
The day that saw an astroid arrive on Earth and unleash the alien invaders upon the world is a day that is etched into the memory of every human being that has ever survived an up close encounter with the deadly assailants. We know the story about what happened with the Abbott family on the day they arrived. But the real question is: Wht about others? The next installment of John Krasinski's sci-fi post apocalyptic series, A Quiet Place Day One tells the story of the invasion of the sound seeking alien menaces from a new prospective and from new characters. Lupita Nyong'o, Joseph Quinn, Alex Wolff, and returning from A Quiet Place Part II Djimon Hounsou headline spinoff prequel that will add more context to a world thrown into chaos. The world will forever be changed when A Quiet Place Day One arrives in ciemas on June 28th
#9
Till All Are 1
The war between the autobots and descepticons is one that spans eons. We've seen the battles between the warring factions. But we've never seen these characters or Cybertron in the time before the war that eventually brought them to us. Before they were bitter enemies on opposite sides of the war, Optimus and Megatron shared a common interest in the safety and prosperity of Cybertron. The question now is: What drove them apart? Paramount Pictures and Hasbro invite you to experience the untold story of the Transformers that is unlike anything you've seen on the big screen. Serving as the first theatrical Transformers film since the 1986 film, Transformers One stars Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson, Laurence Fishburne, Jon Hamm, and Laurence Fishburne in the definitive origin story of one of the most beloved characters in ever grace the screen. Be ready to roll out when Transformers One arrives in theaters on September 13th.
#10
Once and Future King
The pride lands have been ruled benevolently by Simba since he overthrew his uncle and claimed his rightful place as king. We all know the story about the rise of Simba as leader of the pride lands. A story we don't know is that of the one who came before. Set before the events of the 2019 live action film, Director Barry Jenkins tells the untold story of Mufasa as he makes his rise from young cub to king of everything the light touches. Celebrate the 30th Anniversary of one of Disney's greatest tales when Mufasa: The Lion King roars into theaters on December 20th.
So much is coming our way in 2024 and I hope you are as excited as I am. Be sure to check out these films plus others throughout the year. Have a wonder New Years Day and welcome to Day 1 of 2024
Greetings followers. The time has come to prepare to close the book on the 365-page story known as 2023. This year of cinema has had its share of theatrics. From the massive smorgasbord of content during the summer movie season, the chaotically entertaining phenomenon of Barbenheimer, and the industry crippling effects of the actor and writer’s strikes, 2023 has been eventful for a multitude of reasons. 2024 promises to be a year full of potential and optimism but before we start that book, let’s begin our epilogue for 2023 in our annual year-end close-out featuring my top 5 films of the year.
Top Takeaways from 2023
2023 had plenty of films primed for box office glory, but few delivered better than these 3 cinematic juggernauts. The Super Mario Bros Movie, Oppenheimer, and Barbie stand out not only as year end favorites featuring iconic characters and performances but also as some of the lone films to effectively turn a profit even before the Hollywood strikes with all averaging a nearly combined $3.5 billion in box office revenue. It was a memorable year for fans of these actors, creators, and brands as they became the year’s biggest positive bright light of 2023.
The summer movie season delivered the thrills in terms of action and spectacle to be sure. I was not expecting it to give me the ultimate summer playlist. The soundtracks for Transformers Rise of The Beasts, Spider-Man: Across The SpiderVerse and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem delivered some memorable auditory buffets that had an irresistible mixture of old-school flavor and new-school flair. Speaker systems got a workout in the best possible way that had moviegoers bopping their heads and pumping up the volume to the beats of some feel-good tracks.
While the 1st half of 2023 saw plenty of positivity, the second half of the year saw potentially the biggest financial collapse in regards to the box office since the COVID-19 pandemic. Following Barbenheimer, all other films released that weekend failed to reach over $250 million until the release of The Hunger Games: The Ballard of Songbirds and Snakes in November. A multitude of reasons led to this but studios’ inability to market their films due to the WGA strike and actors not being able to be part of the promotional circuit due to the SAG/AFTRA strike led to films with a ton of potential being faced with relying on word of mouth. Unfortunately, the aftereffects of both strikes are still felt significantly after the fact. Hollywood may have come out of this, but the scars from this are profound and quite frankly potentially everlasting moving forward.
Pop culture, particularly that of the superhero genre, became a breeding ground for what I can simply call a sadistically petty period of anticipation for those who have longed loathed anything involving properties tied to Marvel’s MCU or the unceremoniously anticlimactic curtain call for the DCEU. The Marvel Cinematic Universe had its fair share of hiccups this year with its first film of the year Ant-Man and the Wasp Quantumania leaving fans disappointed and dissatisfied and November’s The Marvels being left to die from fans who frustratingly wrote the movie off for reasons that range from cynical to downright ignorant. Couple that with the subsequent writer and actor strikes, allegations of workplace abuse, and the legal fallout of former Multiverse Saga cornerstone Johnathan Majors, the Marvel brand now finds itself with a significant hole to climb out of with very little room for error. On the DC side, the brand prepares for a season of much-needed transition with James Gunn’s revamped DCU set to launch in 2025. But before that, the DCEU had one more year to wrap up its largely disjointed interconnected universe. The result was less heartfelt goodbye and more ashes to ashes dust to dust. Shazam Fury of The Gods, The Flash, and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom all represented a studio that had subsequently given up on something they tried to make coherent despite the many times they shot themselves in the foot doing so. Even the lone positively reviewed film Blue Beetle was littered with unceremonious dismissal despite its good attempts at setting up a character that, unlike the previously mentioned films, may have a future in the next phase of the new hero verse. The fanbases have been extremely vocal throughout the year and the result has left pop culture divided and left the staying power of these franchises and the genre as a whole in question. There is still plenty of optimism and excitement to be had when thinking of what is to come for both franchises. My only hope that we can drown out the emotional baggage that is threatening to turn experiencing and discussing stories featuring these worlds and characters into chores as opposed to events.
Before we get to my top films of 2023, I'd like to share my runner-ups who didn't make the list but
still entertained me thoroughly this year
DC may have had its share of misfires this year but if I can highlight 1 positive, it would be the official live-action debut of Jaime Reyes. A much smaller-scale story than the other DC films that came out this year, Blue Beetle’s simplistic approach allowed us to connect with Reyes and his family more personally which made the standout moments more impactful. Rumblings of Xolo Maridueña’s potential return as the character in James Gunn’s upcoming DCU have gained some traction so if this film is an unofficial starting point for the new era of the DC hero verse, it’s off to a promising start.
A wish can be a powerful thing especially when made with a selfless heart in mind. Disney Animation Studios’ commemorative film celebrating The Walt Disney Company’s 100th Anniversary was a heartfelt tribute to the studios’ many achievements all while delivering an engaging story with a wonderful new heroine. The film has been met with cynical responses but for me, Wish is a great addition to the Disney Animation Studios portfolio that thoroughly reminds those to not put their hopes and dreams in the hands of those who don’t value it as much as you do. Be the hero of your own story and work to make your wish come true your way.
It truly is tragic when a film is dismissed and discarded before it is even seen by the public eyes. Even more so when it happens to be a fun-filled and action-packed space romp with fun characters and plenty of heart. The Marvels was a joy from start to finish and I for one am unashamed to admit I had so much fun spending time with Carol Danvers, Monica Rambaeu, and Kamala Khan. The MCU has been taking some pretty big critical hits from pop culture in 2023 and this film unfortunately became the fandom’s sacrificial lamb in their crusade to announce that Marvel is past its prime and is no longer the powerhouse it once was. But from my POV, the film offered plenty of things to enjoy and get excited about moving forward including the stellar mainstream debut of Iman Vellani. The MCU has a long road ahead regarding how it will navigate the rest of its Multiverse Saga, but I will look back fondly on this installment in Phase 5 and am eager to see what happens with the pieces they put in place.
90s hip hop and Transformers was a combination I never knew I wanted until now. 2018's Bumblebee ushered in a new era for the robots in disguise as the live-action timeline was more or less reset offering the opportunity to tell fresh stories with new voices. Steven Caple Jr’s Transformers Rise of The Beasts was one of the most fun Transformers movies I have seen since the 80s set preboot 5 years prior. With human characters that were engaging and relatable, action that was fun and fast-paced, and a phenomenal nostalgia-inducing soundtrack that truly captured the vibes of the period, you got the makings of one of the most entertaining popcorn flicks of 2023. The future is looking bright for Transformers and their future escapades with characters both within their universe and outside of it.
This beautiful love story from Pixar Animation Studios is one of the feel-good stories of 2023. Elemental is a story of forging your path and accepting love in all forms that left an impression on so many people. So much so that the film gained some incredible post-release legs and managed to turn a profit just before the strikes. With Pixar’s standard baring animation and heartfelt emotional fiber, Elemental is a crowd-pleaser that shows that true love has no real form as long as you have all the right chemistry.
And now the time has come to showcase my cream of the crop, Let's begin!!!
As Long As We’re Together
Who knew a simple plumbing job would lead 2 bros on an adventure of a lifetime? Based on the worldwide phenomenon, The Super Mario Bros Movie is one of the most joyous cinematic experiences I had this year. Illumination’s passion for the brand shined throughout the film with tons of references and easter eggs all while delivering a hilarious and action-packed animated adventure. The film was so much fun and put a huge smile on my face as someone who has always had a love for this world and brand. This is a new frontier for Nintendo and the future is looking great for the brothers and potential other properties under the same umbrella. Here’s to more exciting adventures “hatching” real soon.
It’s Not A Trap, It’s A Face Off
Nearly a decade ago, we were introduced to this band of low-life criminals and misfits. Who knew that they would become some of the most beloved and influential characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe? The Guardians have become one of the most important teams in the MCU for they were the first foray into the cosmic realm of the heroverse and whose involvement was essential to some of the defining moments of Avengers Infinity War and Endgame. Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 3 saw the definitive conclusion to the story of Groot, Rocket, Drax, Mantis, Nebula, Peter Quill, and Gamora. A wildly emotional send-off for a series no one knew they needed in their lives. A befitting farewell to this team and for James Gunn’s tenure in the MCU. Always remember now and forever: We Are Groot.
Canon Event
In every young man’s life, he is told that eventually, he will have to figure out life on his own. The task becomes hard when he is unsure of who he is. But when he finally recognizes that he is in control of his own destiny, that is when his true power is unleashed. As one of the most anticipated films of the year, Spider-Man Across The SpiderVerse became the literal equivalent of Miles vs Everybody. Fed up with everyone telling him how his life should play out, Miles steps up hugely and breaks the chain holding him down becoming a Spider-Man in control of his own destiny. The film, like its predecessor, is a masterclass in animated storytelling that is hilarious, heartfelt, emotional, and thrilling. It is without question the best-animated film to come out this year. With the world impatiently waiting for the conclusion to the trilogy, only time will tell if Miles is up for the challenge of facing the darkness ahead… himself included.
The Next Mutation
How far would you go to change how people see you? You’d be surprised what people would do to ensure people’s perceptions changed. At the end of the day, sometimes doing things for the right reasons is enough to reshape the world around you. It’s the very lesson that is at the heart of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem and why it is such an exciting and hilariously fun animated adventure. The film comes with an authenticity unlike any of the other iterations of Mikey, Donnie, Raph, and Leo. Part of that is having all 4 of our heroes in a half-shell be played by actual teenagers. The banter between them comes from a genuine place and how they play off of each other makes their arcs rewarding and their escapades fun to watch. It is one of the most overlooked animated films to come out this year but it still ushers in a promising and unique era of the turtles. From its animation, its characters, and overall aesthetic, I can’t wait to see what this new turtle universe has in store down the pipeline.
Snow Lands On Top
No one is born bad. It’s a common misconception that we have as a culture that the most evil people on the planet came out of the womb with the intention of causing chaos and destruction. What is conveniently left out is that the people we have around us have more of an influence on who we become. Many love to blame the monster but never have the same level of scorn for the makers of the monster. The Hunger Games: The Ballard of Songbirds and Snakes explores the complex origins of one of the series’ most important characters in an emotionally gritty and timely film. The prequel continues to showcase the incredible staying power of this franchise while adding context to a world beloved by so many. The story of the boy who did things out of desperation who transitions into a man who will do anything out of necessity no matter how malicious or cruel is a chilling reminder of what happens when the things we love most destroy what little humanity we have in this brutal world. No matter what hope you have, no matter what song you sing, no matter what home you claim, in the end…Snow will always land on top.
2023 was a lot but one can’t deny the ride it was. Hope this year was everything you hoped for and more. Check back tomorrow as we open our next book known as 2024. Have a safe New Year's Eve and I’ll catch you on day one of the next 365.
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