2013 Summer Movie Season - World War Z: Review & Analysis



The Z War Has Begun!!! Apocalyptic Zombie Film Attempts To Spark New Horror Franchise!!!
Review By: Brandon Porter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Family Car Ride Turns Into A Struggle For Survival...Welcome To
WWZ!!!

 

 

Story

                In Philadelphia, former UN employee Gerry Lane (Brad Pitt), his wife Karin (Mireille Enos), and their two daughters Constance and Rachel (Sterling Jerins and Abigail Hargrove) drive in a traffic jammed highway when all of a sudden chaos erupts throughout the city. Explosions, overturned cars, and infected looking humans attacking innocent people. Gerry and his family flee to safety and discover they are in the middle of a global zombie outbreak. With the world’s population decreasing at a rapid pace, humanity now stands on the brink of being over ruled by the undead. Forced to leave his family to venture to parts unknown, Gerry must now travel the world to find the origin of the virus and find a solution to save what is left of mankind.

 

 

 

Gerry and his accomplices access the situation aboard a carrier turned
refugee vessel
 

 

Analysis

                In what was considered the midpoint of month 2 of the summer movie season, Marc Foster’s adaption of Max Brooks’ acclaimed novel faced very stiff competition going up against Pixar’s Monsters University in the same weekend. With kids kicking in most of the big numbers for Monsters U, it still didn’t stop World War Z from putting up impressive box office numbers of its own. Winning the number 2 spot at the box office with $66.41 million and became the largest grossing film of Brad Pitt’s career and the sixth-largest opening among films released in June. Critically, the film did surprisingly well. World War Z earned a commendable 68% fresh rating among critics and an 86% rating from moviegoers on Rotten Tomatoes. Scott Foundas of Variety, stated that the film was "surprisingly smart, gripping and imaginative addition to the zombie-movie canon". He went on to add that it also showed "few visible signs of the massive rewrites, reshoots and other post-production patchwork." Despite the challenges it faced, World War Z accomplished mostly what it set out do. Here’s to better success down the road for this possible franchise.

 

 

 

 

 

First Class Flying..Zombie Style!!!

 

Review

                Let me start off by saying I am not one for horror films. I’m not fond of being scared to the point where I gotta sleep with the light on. I’m also not a big fan of zombies, one the genres landmark creatures. Undead creatures hungry for flesh and brains isn’t really an attention getter for me. Despite these fact, I decided to take a chance and see Brad Pitt’s new film World War Z after hearing good things about it. I went into it knowing it was outside of my genre and went in with low expectations. I walked out of the film for the most part pretty pleased. World War Z had a lot going for it throughout the film. There were plenty of misses but also plenty of hits as well. One of the films biggest strengths is creating a tense atmosphere in quite moments during the film. You are constantly on the edge of your seat wondering if a zombie will pop out or if their cover will be blown. Brad Pitt delivers an all-around great performance and almost single handily carried the film. One stand out to me was newcomer Daniella Kertesz’s portrayal as Segen. She brought a tremendous sense of badasserey to her character which I feel shouldn’t be overlooked. On the negative side, some moments of the film were a little boring and some of them over stayed their welcome. Thankfully it was only a handful. Despite its flaws, World War Z is still a decent film to watch. It may not be my type of film, but I’ll gladly give credit where credit is due.

 

 

 

 

 

Rating and Final Thoughts

 

                With this film being in a genre I don’t particularly follow, World War Z is still good enough to satisfy. My hope is for this potential franchise to build on the positives thus gaining and maintaining a healthy and loyal fanbase.

Paramount Pictures Has Ignited What They Feel Will Be A Successful Zombie Action Franchise.
For a film that had plenty of potential and for the most part lived up to it, there is nowhere for
this series to go but up.

 

 

 

2013 Summer Movie Season - Monsters University: Review & Analysis

MU RULES!!!!! Pixar’s First Prequel Is A Class Worth Attending
Review By: Brandon Porter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Before They Were Incorporated...They Had To Be Educated.

 

 

 

 

Story

   At Monsters Incorporated, The best scarers put their lives on the line to deliver energy by harnessing children’s screams. For Mike Wazowski (Billy Crystal), this has been a lifelong dream for him. Aspiring to be the greatest scarer ever, he enrolls for his freshman year of college at Monsters University, the most respected and prestigious institution for future scarers. Brimming with confidence, Mike shows a determined tancity and mental knowledge of scaring despite not having the right look. Also enrolled at the school with Mike is James P. Sullivan (John Goodman), a hot headed prodigy who thinks scaring comes easy to him because of his famous family name. These two talented students will soon meet new friends, face life changing challenges, and forge an unbreakable bond that will make them into the people they were destined to be.

 

Nothing Like A Rivalry To Help You Strive To Be The Best.

 

 

 

Analysis

                The past two films by Pixar Animation Studios have gone from horrible to acceptably passable. Some may say that the studio is finally losing its golden touch. Other suggest that the studio can not leap over the high bar it placed for itself. Despite it all, Monsters University is the studios’ latest attempt to get back on track critically. For the most part, the steps they are taking are working. Monsters University garnered a solid 76% certified fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes with the website stating, “It doesn't scale the heights of Pixar's finest efforts, but Monsters University is still funny and thoughtful family entertainment for viewers of any age.” Chris Nashawaty of Entertainment Weekly, who gave the film an A -, went on to say, “Monsters University is exactly the rebound Pixar needed after 2011's Cars 2 left some wondering if the studio had lost its magic. The delightful story of when Mike met Sulley puts those concerns to rest." Financially, the film as of right now is doing solid. As of June 22, Monsters University earned an impressive $31 million on Friday with $2.6 million on early Thursday screenings. Monsters University continues to push Pixar in the right direction so they can remind everyone they are still the best in the business.

 

Mike and Sully Competing In The Annual Scare Games

 

Review

                Let me start off by saying that there is nothing more precious than your childhood. And that is what Monsters Inc. is part of. One of Pixar’s best and earliest works, I remember being only 9 years old when the film came out. 12 years later, Pixar has now released a prequel to their classic film that tapped into my most cherished childhood memories. With me being a college student myself about to head to a University, it was fun to see characters I knew in love in a similar situation. Pixar is slowly but surely picking up the pieces and becoming the magic making studio I know they are. Monsters University is funny, heartfelt, and surprisingly inspiring. Mike and Sully are just as terrific in this film as they were in Monsters Inc. Billy Crystal and John Goodman show a great chemistry once again that ends up being one of the films biggest strengths. Other characters such as Art, Scott Squibbles, and Dean Hardscrabble bring a likable atmosphere to the tone of the film. It is also great to see cameos by characters from the first film make appearances in this film adding to an already enjoyable experience. Pixar created a great family film that will tap into the childhoods of fans who love the original and the young generation not yet introduced. This is definitely a school I would love to attend.

 

 

 

 

Rating and Final Thoughts

 

"Monsters University,

We give are heart to you,

We want you to be proud of us

What ever we may do.

Where ever children are dreaming,

We'll bring them Nightmares too,

From Monsters University-

Alma Mater; we love you.

Monsters are the world,

Can you hear the call?

At Monsters University,

You're WELCOME ONE AND ALL.

Monster University,

Monster University,

Burst in terror, burst in fear,

We're awfully glad we're here.

Monsters University,

We never will forget,

The golden years we spent with you

And the monster that we met.

No matter where life takes us,

Your light will come shining through.

Oh, Monsters University-

Alma Mater, hale to you."

 

 

Pixar's First Prequel Delivers Laughs, Fun, and Inspiration in a big way. Here's hoping the studio continues to
strive in great storytelling and memorable moments.
 

 

2013 Summer Movie Season - Man of Steel: Review & Analysis

  It’s A Bird, It’s A Plane, It’s SUPERMAN!!!!!! Zach Snyder and Christopher Nolan Deliver Solid Retelling of the Man of Steel Story

Review By: Brandon Porter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"What if a Child Was Able To Become Something Other Than What Society
Had Intended?...What If A Child Aspired To Become Something Greater?"

Story

                In a distant solar system lies the planet of Krypton, a once peaceful planet now on the verge on imminent destruction. Forced to make the ultimate sacrifice, Jor-El (Russell Crowe) and his wife send their newborn son to the stars thus saving him from the planet’s doomed fate. Years pass and Kal-El (Henry Cavill) grows up in Kansas under the name Clark Kent and is raised by Jonathan and Martha Kent (Kevin Costner and Diane Lane). Over the next 33 years, Clark has many jobs and is on a constant quest to discover who he really is. But when hardened kryptonian warrior General Zod arrives to earth, Clark must face him and his followers and make the ultimate choice that will shape his destiny and change the planet forever.

 

 

 

 

Clark and His Father Jor-El inside the Fortress of Solitude.



 

 

Analysis

                Since being announced in late 2011, Man of Steel has had many eyes on it. Being that the latest superman film Superman Returns left a rather unpleasant taste in everyone’s mouth, a reboot of the franchise seemed very logical. After the rousing success of The Avengers, more pressure was added to this film as DC planned for it to be the anchor for their own multi-crossover film Justice League. When the film finally hit theaters, the response was both very positive and somewhat negative. An average score of 56% among critics on Rotten Tomatoes overshadowed the positive feedback from audiences who gave it a solid 82%. Most critics felt an uneasy balance between storytelling and action. On the positive side of things, Steve Percall of the Tampa Bay Times stated that "Man of Steel is more than just Avengers-sized escapism; it's an artistic introduction to a movie superhero we only thought we knew." Despite its mixed reception among critics, the film did outstanding financially. Man of Steel made a record breaking $202.1 million on its opening weekend, including $17.5 million from IMAX showings. The film now holds the title of highest grossing movie in June beating out Pixar’s Toy Story 3. With critics and audiences sporting different views on this latest take on the Superman story, It seems the rebooted franchise has become a huge success and clearly has helped green light the much rumored, speculated, and anticipated Justice League film.

 

 

 

Lois and Clark: The Beginning



 

 

Review

                I’ll be the first to admit, I wasn’t a big mega Superman fan when I was little. The only connection I had to the character was the 1990s animated series. Despite my lack of Superman knowledge, I was still plenty excited for the upcoming superman film. Having not really watched the classic 70s or 80s films or the heavily panned 2006 film, I found this reboot to be the perfect opportunity to fully introduce me the world of Superman. As I experienced it in IMAX, I can say any doubts I had about this film were erased within 7 minutes in. I was amazed by this film. Despite the fact that it was a 2 and a half hour film, I found myself totally engrossed in the story and never got bored or annoyed. Zach Snyder did an admirable job directing this film alongside writer David Goyer and producer Christopher Nolan and showed his great resolve for filmmaking. I have completely forgiven him for Sucker Punch which I regretfully saw two years ago. Henry Cavill did a wonderful job as Superman in this film. He brought a solid emotional and depth filled persona to the character that was done with care. You make an emotional connection to Clark Kent and want him to succeed in his journey which is very hard to do for some actors. I also like Amy Adams as Lois Lane. Her great stage presence made her a joy to watch and she had great chemistry with other members of the cast. I’m eager to see her grow in the role. Other cast members deliver equally satisfying performances such as Michael Shannon as Zod, Laurence Fishburne as Perry White, Russell Crowe’s memorable portrayal as Jor-El, and Diane Lane and Kevin Costner as Martha and Johnathan Kent. With all its solid character portrayals and engrossing story, it’s the action that really is a showstopper. Pulse pounding, fast-paced, emotional, and freakin awesome are all words that describe the film’s terrific action sequences. From the start of the film, the action is both balanced and fun. Best fight scenes consisted of Faora and Clark’s Smallville rumble to the extremely satisfying climactic battle between Zod and Superman. Add Hans Zimmer’s incredible score and you’ve got eargasmic pleasure to accompany visually thrilling eye candy. Overall, Man of Steel had everything I would want in a Superman film and then some. I think it is safe to say that a Justice League film should and just might happen.

 

Rating and Final Thoughts

 

  The Superman film you’ve been dreaming, hoping, praying, and searching for has finally arrived. This exciting reboot breathes new life into a beloved character that the new generation can now cherish as their own.

 

 

 

 

 

 

With The Great Success of Man of Steel, All Signs Point To The Future As
Warner Bros. Preps For A Thunderous Response To Marvel's The Avengers. 

2013 Summer Movie Season - Month 2 Preview (June 2013)

 

Unlikely Champions!!! Kryptonion Hero and College Freshmen Show Signs of True Greatness

By: Brandon Porter

Hey Followers!!! I hope everyone enjoyed what I have to say was a memorable month of May. But this month, things start getting interesting and more action packed. Kids are out of school so that means the fun is set to kick into high gear. The month of June prepares to bring us some exhilarating, hilarious, and memorable films sure to rock cinemas nationwide. Let’s take a look at some of those potential blockbusters.

 

 

 

 

 

Zach Snyder and Christopher Nolan bring a new vision of
Superman for a new generation to enjoy.

 

Man of Steel (Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Comics, June 14th)

                Over the past few years, DC Comics has been in a heated box office war with Marvel Studios. And in those years, Marvel has handed DC their behinds with numerous hits that are more critically and financially successful. One of the saving graces of DC was Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight Trilogy. Unfortunately, with the conclusion of the trilogy with Dark Knight Rises last year, DC now has to find a suitable replacement for Bruce Wayne to combat the powerhouse that is Marvel. Their Answer: Clark Kent!!! That’s right!!! The man who also goes by his other identity...Superman!!! After half a dozen years since gracing the screen, the proud son of Krypton returns reborn behind the vision of Christopher Nolan and Watchman director Zach Snyder. With Nolan and acclaimed writer David S. Goyer serving as producer and writer respectfully, Snyder’s detailed and passionate filmmaking style, and a strong cast that includes Laurence Fishburne, Amy Adams, Russell Crowe, Michael Shannon, Kevin Costner, Diane Lane, and Henry Cavill as Clark Kent, DC is doing everything they can to make this Superman film an unforgettable experience. I look forward to seeing if Kal-El rises to the occasion when Man of Steel flies into theaters June 14^th.

 

 

Mike and Sully are back as they begin their first year
at Monsters University



Monsters University (Walt Disney Pictures/Pixar Animation Studios, June 21st)

                I’m sure almost everyone knows about their first year of College. The parties, the girls, the cramming for finals just hours before the Exam. Good Times…Gooood Times!!! Surprisingly, it seems we aren’t the only ones who had memorable times as college freshmen. And by us, I mean humans. We’re about to discover that scaring isn’t just something you do but something you learn as Pixar studios takes you through Mike Wazowski and James P. Sullivan’s freshman year at the most esteemed scaring institute on earth. Monsters University!!! Prequel to the classic 2001 Pixar film, Monsters University follows Mike and Sully’s rise from promising college hopefuls to the future scaring duo of the century. With familiar faces as well as new ones to meet, this is one class you’ll be glad you registered for. Pack your bags and take out your textbooks because school is back in session when Monsters University enrolls in theaters on June 21^st.

 

Gerry Lane and his family try to escape New York in the
midst of the start of the zombie apocalypse.

World War Z (Paramount Pictures, June 21st)

                What would you do if you were out with your family talking, laughing, and just having a good time when all of a sudden…BAM!!! Explosions, overturned cars, and flesh eating monsters surrounded you?! No, you aren’t in Marilyn Manson music video…You’re in the middle of a zombie apocalypse!!! Well, that is just what Gerry Lane goes through in World War Z, the adaption to Max Brook’s acclaimed novel. Brad Pitt stars in the thrilling zombie action flick that follows the story of a man determined to keep his family safe as humanity faces extinction. With solid visual effects, a seemingly solid emotional core, and high stakes action, humanity hangs in the balance as World War Z swarms theaters on June 21^st.

 

 

 

 

White House Down (Columbia Pictures, June 28th)

                Nothing like a normal day in our nation’s capital. Birds singing, wind blowing, tourist taking pictures, the Capitol Building blowing up, and Air Force one being shot down….Okay, maybe that isn’t a typical day in Washington DC, but it’s what President James Sawyer and Officer John Cale experience in the action thrill ride White House Down. Django Unchained’s Jamie Foxx and G.I. Joe Retaliation’s Channing Tatum headline the summer action film directed by Independence Day’s Roland Emmerich. With so much negative energy already being thrown at it for being a copy of this year’s earlier white house action movie Olympus Has Fallen, White House Down looks to be a fun popcorn action flick that doesn’t seem to take itself too seriously which is great news for this time of the year. A ordinary day in Washington becomes a battleground for survival when White House Down opens in theaters on June 28^th.

 

 

 

 

 

There is plenty of fun to be had in this second month of the Summer Movie Season. Check Back Soon for all the reviews for these films and more. See ya later!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2013 Summer Movie Season - Month By Month Recaps

Month 1 Recap (May 2013)

Hey Followers, We Are Officially Through The Opening Month Of The Summer Movie Season. I have to say this was a great month full of memorable moments and spectacular films. I definitely enjoyed myself thoroughly this May. Let’s take a look at a recap of how the films that were released this month did financially and critically.

Here Are Some Of The Best Films That Were Released This Month

Iron Man 3

Iron Man 3 kicked off the summer movie in roaring fashion. Robert Downey Jr and company delivered yet another great addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With so many expectations surrounding this film with it coming off the heels of The Avengers, Iron Man 3 met the challenge head on and became an instant box office smash. Unfortunately, questions are now arising whether or not this will be Downey Jr’s final time putting on the suit for it is not confirmed he will return for The Avengers 2 in 2015. But until that day comes, we can only hope there is still hope that he’ll still don the Arc reactor.

Star Trek Into Darkness

Words cannot describe how much of an amazing film J.J Abrams and crew put together. Star Trek Into Darkness was an incredible movie that clearly has become one of my top films of the year. Everything that I loved about the 2009 film was elevated to new heights in this installment. From the incredible action, strong emotion, and a great performance by Benedict Cumberbatch, I can truly say that Star Trek Into Darkness is a worthy sequel to one of my all-time favorite sci-fi films.

 

 

 

Fast and Furious 6

Nothing like fast cars, fist fights, and tanks on highways to help heat up your Memorial Day. The latest entry in the Fast and Furious franchise exceeded the highest of expectations and became a record breaking box office monster over the holiday break. Justin Lin and the folks at Universal have clearly done the right things to make this once ridiculed car series into one of Hollywood’s biggest action franchises. With another installment on the way in July 2014, I can hardly wait to see what’s in store for what is quickly becoming one of my favorite movie franchises.

 

 

 

Now You See Me

I definitely didn’t see this coming. For a film that flew under my radar, I was pleasantly surprised of how this film turned out. I have to say the thing that impressed me the most was all the twist and turns you go through over the course of the film. It plays with you psychologically thinking you got it figured out then it hits you with a major twist that has you scrambling to pick up the pieces. Great acting, fun surprises, and solid directing made for what I feel is one of the underrated films of the year so far.

 

Here is a Breakdown on How the Following Films Did Financially and Among Critics

 

Best Box Office Numbers

1. Iron Man 3: $1,181,095,208 Billion

2. Fast and Furious: $484.1 Million

3. Star Trek Into Darkness: $330,569,614 Million

4. Now You See Me: $35,517,504 Million

 

Best Critical Success (via. Rotten Tomatoes)

1. Star Trek Into Darkness: (87% Certified Fresh)

2. Iron Man 3: (78% Certified Fresh)

3. Fast and Furious 6: (72% Certified Fresh)

4. Now You See Me: (44%)

 

With that, I want to know: What Was the Best Film YOU Saw This Month? Be sure to stay tuned for all the latest post throughout the summer. See You Soon.

 

2013 Summer Movie Season - Now You See Me: Review & Analysis

Behind The Smoke and Mirrors!!! Magician Caper Film Is Compelling and Engaging Brain Trip!!!

Review By: Brandon Porter

 

 
 









 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

  










Jack Wilder, J. Daniel Atlas, Henley Reeves, and Merritt Osbourne
The Four Horseman!!!!

Story

   Across The United States, There are many forms of magicians. These performers spend years of their lives training and practicing to amaze their audience and bend the limits of reality. However, there is one trick that has yet to be attempted and will take the world by storm. Four talented magicians: J. Daniel Atlas (The Tricky Control freak) (Jesse Eisenberg), Jack Wilder (The Card Wielding Street Punk) (Dave Franco), Henley Reeves (The Sexy Escape Artist) (Isla Fisher), and Merritt Osbourne (The Mind- Toying Mentalist) (Woody Harrelson) are brought together by a mysterious benefactor to help with a daring trick that will get them into a top secret society. Over the course of a year, the four rename themselves the Four Horseman, who three part spectacle amazes their audience but also robs the rich of their spoils. Determined to bring these Robin Hood type thieves to justice, Detective Dylan Rhodes (Mark Ruffalo) along with his new partner Alma Vargas (Mélanie Laurent) embark on a wild chase across the country that will test their wit, faith, and mental prowess as they try to catch these clever and highly qualified magical capers.



Rhodes and Vargas Question Atlas At The Precinct Interrogation Room

 

 

Analysis

  An intriguing film is what Now You See Me was at first glance. However, selling a film about magicians robbing banks just didn’t scream box office winner. When the film opened on May 31^st, things seemed to turn around and people soon started to take notice. Despite a below average 44% from rotten tomatoes, there were still plenty amount of praise to given to this summer movie season underdog. Peter Hammond of Movieline Stated that the film was, "Pure summer movie magic- literally.” He commented that Now You See Me was “More fun than ocean's 11, 12, and 13 combined. You won't believe your eyes- and that's the point.” Box office wise, the film won Friday’s box office battle with $10 million dollars barely beating out the $9.8 million posted by Will and Jaden Smith’s After Earth. Though it probably will not beat After Earth in the weekend box office category, Now You See Me is still projected to be a success among Lionsgate for the film is said to possibly make $23 million combined. Despite the competion it faces, Now You See Me stands tall among the crowd and looks to pull off a great opening weekend and establish itself as the true surprise film of the summer.

Atlas, Merritt, and Henley among their fans in New York


 

 

Review

   In the early stages of the Summer Movie Season, Now You See Me wasn’t anywhere on my radar. However, I took in a showing of on opening night and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised. This film has all the makings of a solid sleeper hit. One of the biggest strengths of the film was its roller coaster plot. The entire movie felt like a magic act in itself. Just when you think you have the film figured out, it hits you with not one but two huge curve balls that will have you scrambling to pick up the pieces. Word to the wise: pay very close attention to the film or you will get lost very easily. Acting was also another strong presence in the film. Jesse Eisenberg was solid as Atlas, Isla Fisher had a solid presence portraying Escape artist Henley and looked extremely sexy doing it, Dave Franco did well as Jack Wilder and in some scenes looked like a splitting image of his brother James, and Woody Harrelson, who has shown time and time again his tremendous resolve and versatility as an actor, gave his all as mentalist Merritt Osbourne delivering another strong performance. Mark Ruffalo made his presence felt in the film as well. Despite the antics his character face, he still delivered a strong protagonist that doesn’t get lost in the shuffle. Now You See Me is an endless foray of twist and turns that won’t let up until the credits roll. Despite the competion it faces, this film established itself as a strong candidate for the year’s biggest surprise hit.

 Rating and Final Thoughts

                Nothing about this film may jump out and catch people’s attention at first glance, but after peeling back the layers, you discover that there is more than meets the eye with this fun, engaging, and underrated Caper film.

The lack of critical response and or financial strength is truly an illusion in its own right for it actually overshadows what a true gem that this film really is.