Re-Porter Blog SMS 2024 Wrap Up: Season Awards

 

Happy Friday the 13th yall!!! Despite what day it is, today is a time for celebration and reflection for today marks the official start of the fall and winter movie slates. This means that summer is in the books and another summer movie season has come and gone. This year brought so much excitement and thrills to the theaters over the past few months that no one can deny its impact on so many people. As we transition into the final months and films of 2024, let us give out some well-deserved superlatives in our 11th edition of the SMS awards.

If there is one thing that you can count on is a veteran showing why they are the best at what they do. For Lupita Nyong’o, she exemplifies that and then some. Her work in this summer’s A Quiet Place Day One proves that she is one of the industry’s most reliable performers and a movie will always benefit from her being on the roster. Such a gift to have her in whatever story is set to be told. 

I’m sure everyone had a memorable summer this year. That said, I doubt that many of you had a better summer than Mr. Merc with the Mouth himself Ryan Reynolds. Reynolds truly lived the dream as he was able to manifest not just one of 2024’s most successful films but a dream team-up he’s wanted for so long. Few can deny his patience and perseverance to finally get to this point. Needless to say, Ryan has earned his place amongst the pantheon of superhero genre greats.

Best Animated Movie

As one of Pixar's most nuanced and beloved new IPs, expectations were high in regards to the follow-up to 2015's Inside Out. Thankfully, Inside Out 2 delivered in terms of comedy and emotional resonance. It takes a special type of skill to make us invested in both the journey of Riley and the journey of her emotions. The inclusion of new emotions like the cultural icon Anxiety added new layers to the narrative that elevated the stakes. Growing up is hard but the journey that takes place inside can help us embrace all of the parts of us that are key to making us whole.

Best Comedy 

In an unorthodox move, the official kick-off of the summer movie season was NOT the latest installment of the MCU. Still, what we did get was a worthy opening showcase. David Leitch's action comedy was full of adrenaline, laughs, romance, and poignancy. A smart and heartfelt love letter to the forgotten heroes of the entertainment industry who put their lives on the line for the enjoyment of the masses.

Movie of The Summer

As if there was any doubt. Coming in as one of 2024's most anticipated event films, the long-awaited team-up of Wade Wilson and Logan was every bit as chaotic, vulgar, bloody, and bats*** insane as one could hope for. Despite it all, the film never sacrificed heart and what has made these 2 characters such iconic figures in the superhero genre for years. We may not know where these 2 will end up next but the conclusion to the Fox era of Marvel was as classy as you could have it.

And with that, we close the curtain on another summer at the movies. I want to thank everyone who took the time to read my posts throughout the past few months. I do this every year and it's always a good time. Thanks again and I look forward to seeing you all for 2025's staked summer slate. Have a wonderful fall and winter.

2024 Summer Movie Season - Monthly Recap (August/September 2024)

 

2024 SMS August/September Recap

Hi there followers!!! With the ending of this past weekend, we have officially begun to transition out of the summer movie season. The final films of SMS 2024 offered a lot but with the fall and winter film slates set to begin, summer looked to wrap up with a bang. Let's look back at the finale that was in our August/September recap.

Video game adaptations have had some pretty good fortune in the past few years. Unfortunately, some just miss the mark entirely. Squandering a talented ensemble, a seasoned director, and a potentially engrossing world, Borderlands will be looked back on as how NOT to do a video game adaptation. With evidence of the trend continuing down the road, this rising genre will have to conjure up more hits than misses to make up for one of 2024's most egregious cinematic misfires. 

The Alien franchise's history has been rocky as of late with some of its recent entries teetering between just ok to below standard when compared to the early days of the sci-fi horror series. Alien Romulus thankfully seemed to signal a return to form with its chilling and hauntingly intense standalone sequel. A younger cast mixed with an emphasis on practical effects recapturing the grounded grit of the 1979 classic, Romulus proved that the Xenomorph can be an effective tool for terror and tension that goes beyond simple glorified gore fest. If this is an indication of what's to come, it appears the franchise could be in for a long-awaited return to form.

 

It's been a while since the chaotic apparition has materialized but it seems he hasn't missed a step since the late 80s. Returning to the world of the gothic horror comedy, Tim Burton manages to conjure up some of his old-school ambiance in a crowd-pleasing legacy sequel that captures the spirit of the original while progressing the characters forward. The juice got loose and offered a great capper to the summer movie season while also serving as a kickoff for the spooky season. 

Here Are The Regarding How The Films Did Financially and Among Critics

Best Box Office Numbers (As of September 12th, 2024)

1. Alien Romulus: $315.3 Million

2. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice: $162.4 Million

3. Borderlands: $31.4 Million

Best Critical Success (via. Rotten Tomatoes)

1. Alien Romulus (80% Certified Fresh)

2. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (76% Certified Fresh)

3. Borderlands (10%)

What was your favorite movie of the month? Be sure to return later this week as we officially close our coverage of the summer movie season with our wrap-up special  See you real soon.

Re-Porter Blog 2024 Summer Movie Season - August/September Preview

 

Happy Thursday followers!!! We have officially hit the homestretch of this year‘s summer movie season. The past several months have been nothing but spectacular with so many amazing films being released. As we head into the final month of the season, there’s still plenty of fun to be had. Several films, including new installments of two iconic franchises, headline a very busy month. There’s a lot to cover so let’s get things started with our final monthly preview for August and September.

Borderlands (Lionsgate, 
August 9th)

This Ain't No Place For No Hero

The galaxy can be a dangerous place. Filled with creatures, criminals, and mercenaries who won’t hesitate to put a bullet in your head. When you’re traveling these lawless lands, it’s always better to bring some backup. When a treasure worth more money than most star systems is discovered on one of the most hostile planets, a group of reluctant strangers must work together to secure the loot…while not killing each other in the process. Based on the popular video game, director Eli Roth delivers a sci-fi adventure about an unlikely group of heroes. Find out who survives the horrors of the world of Pandora when Borderlands arrives in theaters on August 9th.

Latest Trailer

Alien Romulus (20th Century Studios, 
August 16th)

Hear You Scream  

There are few things more threatening or foreboding than the vast emptiness of space. Unfortunately for a crew of scavengers looking for a quick payday, they come face to face with one of the most dangerous and terrifying creatures in the universe. What started it out as a simple job now becomes a desperate fight for survival. In the end, who will survive the wrath of this alpha level predator? Director Fede Alvarez returns to transport fans back into the clutches of a Xenomorph hell bent on tearing apart anyone unfortunate enough to be in its wake. Tension, terror and chest bursting are sure to be aplenty in this latest installment of the science fiction horror series. Space becomes the ultimate hunting ground when Alien Romulus arrives on August 16th

Latest Trailer

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice 2024 AD (Warner Bros. Pictures, 
September 6th)

IT'S SHOWTIME!!

There are times when the dead speak to us. For one woman, there’s one voice she wishes she didn’t have to hear again. For Lydia Deetz, her desperate attempt to save her family will have her seeking the aid of the unpredictable and mischievous apparition known as Beetlejuice. One thing for sure, when he’s involved, chaos is almost certain to follow. Decades after the iconic 1988 classic, Tim Burton returns along with Winona Ryder, Michael Keaton, and Catherine O’Hara alongside Willem Dafoe, Jenna Ortega, Justin Trudeau & Monica Bellucci in the gothic horror comedy that looks to bring in spooky season in earnest. Hope you’re ready for the juice to get loose when Beetlejuice Beetlejuice 2024 AD arrives on September 6th.

Latest Trailer

A very exciting lineup to go out on. Be on the lookout for these films and more in the home stretch of the season. Enjoy your weekend followers and see you soon.

2024 Summer Movie Season - Monthly Recap (July 2024)

 

2024 SMS July Recap

Hey there followers!!! This Thursday will signal the start of the final stretch of films for this year's summer movie season. In July, many amazing movies were released bringing plenty of fanfare, especially in the latter part of the month. Before we proceed with the final month, let's wrap up July with our latest monthly recap.

Gru and his family have endured a lot in their time together. Now that the family is extended, the stakes are are higher as well as the shenanigans. The fourth installment of the Despicable Me franchise continued the trend of heart, humor, and minion mayhem in a family comedy that still shows that there is a lot of fun still to be had with these despicably irresistible characters.

There are many stories about the fame moon landing of 1969. Do you know the links that people went through to bring it to fruition. Both in space and on the ground. Fly Me to the Moon showed the lengths that people were willing to go through to ensure that people still believed in hope for reaching the stars. sometimes a little white lie can’t go along way. Sometimes.

Mother nature has never been as vicious and visceral as she is now. Filled with intense storm depictions, southern charm, and an emotional core that speaks to the power of overcoming trauma, Twisters is a high octane summer blockbuster that values character and heart as well as spectacle. A thrill ride in every sense that guarantees to blow you away. 

Marvel has a new iconic duo in they’re here to bring some chaos to a heroverse at a turning point in terms of direction. The year’s most anticipated film was exactly what the doctor ordered in what is sure to be at the top of a lot of people’s best of list. In a summer full of great films, Logan and Wade slashed through the competition to be one of the summer’s must see attractions.

Here Are The Regarding How The Films Did Financially and Among Critics

Best Box Office Numbers (As of July 31st, 2024)

1. Despicable Me 4: $680.7 Million

2. Deadpool & Wolverine: $496.4 Million

3. Twisters: $225.5 Million

4. Fly Me To The Moon: $37.1 Million

Best Critical Success (via. Rotten Tomatoes)

1. Deadpool & Wolverine  (79% Certified Fresh)

2. Twisters (76% Certified Fresh)

3.  Fly Me To The Moon (66% Certified Fresh)

4.  Despicable Me 4 (55%)

What was your favorite movie from this month? Make sure you return tomorrow as we get you ready for the final month of this year's SMS. Have a wonderful rest of your hump day everyone.

2024 Summer Movie Season - Marvel Studios' Deadpool & Wolverine: Review & Analysis

Maximum Effort!!!!! Ryan & Hugh's R-Rated MCU Buddy Movie is Adrenaline Filled Shot In The Arm for Cinematic Heroverse!!!!!

Review By Brandon Porter

Hey bub! Lookin for me?!!

Story Description

Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds) is living the life he’s always wanted…or is he. After his escapades with a hijacked time travel watch, Wade has configured a custom reality of his own making where everyone he loves is alive and happy. It feels like paradise but there is the stinging feeling that something is missing. Before he can ponder this fact, he gets an unexpected visit from some shocking individuals. Now in the custody of the Time Variance Authority, a multiversal security agency, Wade is informed that his world is in danger of being wiped out of existence. His only hope to save what he loves is to work with the TVA to stop a threat hiding in universe 616 more commonly known as something called “the Marvel Cinematic Universe”, a universe Wade has dreamed of joining for years. With time running out and enemies new and unfamiliar popping up from everywhere and everywhen, Wade must seek help from an unlikely source to combat the coming conflict in the form of the legendary yet disgraced member of the X-Men James Logan Howlett aka The Wolverine (Hugh Jackman).

The MCU's most unlikely odd couple

Film Review

There is no denying the fanfare that has surrounded this film since the announcement of its existence 2 years ago. Five years have passed since the Disney-Fox merger and the question about the future of the X-Men has hung in the balance with many people wondering if one of Marvel’s most beloved set of characters would finally join the MCU. With the release of Deadpool & Wolverine, the beginning of the mutant’s arrival in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has begun and the merc with the mouth is heading the ship. With plenty of intrigue, a collection of talent including the return of Hugh Jackman, as well as the promise of unhinged chaos throughout, Deadpool & Wolverine looks to shake the foundation of the MCU in explosive R-rated fashion. After experiencing the full glory of this movie, Deadpool and Wolverine is lunacy, insanity, and mayhem in an irresistibly satisfying package. It is already well-known that bringing The Merc with the Mouth to a mainstream audience was a tall hill to climb. Especially for a studio that was involved with a game of keep away for the longest time. Fast forward to now and it is obvious that the foul-mouth, gunslinging, katana-wielding anti-hero has a charm and ambiance that even the most cynical minds can't resist. Deadpool and Wolverine serve as a long-overdue welcome-to-the-club moment for both Ryan Reynolds and his running mate Hugh Jackman. It also serves as a heartfelt sendoff to a defining era that predates the MCU as a whole. There is a lot to unpack and highlight about this film but let's start by giving our leading boys their flowers. Ryan Reynolds is to no one's surprise the definitive Deadpool. Seeing him play this character with such ease always makes for an entertaining showcase. He is the definition of an actor who loves AND understands the character he's playing. Reynolds continues to solidify himself as one of the most inspired castings of a superhero in film. The same can be said Hugh Jackman. His latest go around as Wolverine gives him his MCU moment in a big way. The version of Logan we see in this is different yet still in essence the Logan we know. Filled with regret, anger, and suppressed trauma, Logan is haunted by his past mistakes and has coped with them through violence and drinking. His arc is about accepting he cannot change what happened but that still doesn't mean he shouldn't keep fighting. 

Steel on steel

Jackman plays the role beautifully and plays off of Reynolds effortlessly. While we are on the subject, Reynolds and Jackman on screen together as these characters is pure magic. The two of them have unrivaled chemistry with one another as every moment of them on screen is a guaranteed showstopper whether it's an action sequence or banter. It truly is a miracle come to life to see them lighting up the screen together. Other standouts do include Emma Corrin as Cassandra Nova. Corrin is delightful in the villain role displaying such a sick and sadistic aura that makes her calm yet firmly terrifying from scene to scene. Matthew Macfadyen is solid as Paradox but is used as a plot device in the end. While I want to be careful to avoid spoilers, I do want to highlight that there are a plethora of moments that make this film not only an enjoyable ride, but a heartfelt sendoff to one of the defining eras of Marvel cinematic storytelling. The action is brutal, bloody, frenetic, and downright grin-inducing. There isn't a moment where you won't be cheering or at the very least have a smile on your face. This is already a strong contender for best action spectacle of the year. What is more gratifying to see is a number of people getting their what I'm calling "MCU moment". I will not get into detail but there are a few people who "show up" and get their flowers and their chance to be part of the club if even for a little bit. Trust me, you won't be ready for who walks in. Despite all the jokes, the film does a solid job of acknowledging the contributions of the Fox era of Marvel and wraps things up nicely for that chapter of the heroverse. It may not have been perfect, but that era of Marvel did a lot for what we see in our modern time. Overall, Deadpool and Wolverine is a massive collection of joy, meta, heart, and bloody chaos. Seeing two actors who are in essence the full embodiment of their characters in the MCU is truly a gift and a joy to watch from beginning to end. Wade and Logan finally made it to the big dance and the spotlight is blessed to be shining on them.

Rating and Final Thoughts

A full-on spectacle from beginning to end as the MCU brings a bloody and ballistic carnival ride that offers both closure and comfort to an era of storytelling worth remembering. 

Pool kisses all around!!!!

2024 Summer Movie Season - Twisters: Review & Analysis

 

Ride It Out!!!!! Standalone Sequel To 1996 Film Is Intense Thrill Ride With Heart and Valor!!!!!

Review By Brandon Porter

Hold on for your life

Story Description

Kate Cooper (Daisy Edgar Jones) and Mother Nature have not had a solid relationship. After a devastating incident traumatized her and left her unmotivated to continue what she was once passionate about, the former storm-chaser has been relegated to a life away from the elements. When her old friend and colleague Javi (Anthony Ramos) convinces her to return due to increased storm activity in Oklahoma, Kate reluctantly agrees to jump back into the fray. Upon arrival, they realize they aren't the only crew in town braving the elements. A group of internet-famous storm chasers known as Tornado Wranglers, led by Tyler Owens (Glen Powell), are also there for research but seem more concerned with reckless thrills and “going viral” rather than gaining knowledge about the storms. When the surge in storm activity becomes deadlier than anticipated, Kate and Tyler must work together to survive the onslaught of destructive tornadoes that potentially could rip the state of Oklahoma off the face of the map. 

Kate, Tyler, and Kate's mother study the patterns of 
the storms that are terrorizing Oklahoma.

Film Review

28 years after the 1996 blockbuster, Twisters is the latest high-octane thrill ride that pits a new generation of storm chasers against a packed of wildly unpredictable and violent tornadoes. With bigger stakes and double the storm power, Twisters looks to rock the SMS with some intense wind-filled adrenaline. After watching the film, Twisters respects what came before while adding modern touches that enhance the engagement factors. Often times we talk about what makes a great summer movie. For me, it's that sense of escapism where you can suspend disbelief and just be along for the ride with characters on screen. Twister did that nearly 30 years ago and Twisters follows suit to great effect. Director Lee Issac Chung clearly understands what made his film's predecessors so great not only from a technical perspective but also thematically which easily gets lost in the on-screen chaos. That can only be pulled from by the talented cast on screen which brings us to performances. Our leading lady Daisy Edgar Jones is great in the lead as Kate. Much like Helen Hunt's Jo, Kate is struggling with facing the trauma that not only claimed loved ones but her passion for what she dedicated her life to knowing more about. Her arc is centered on facing her fear and confronting the psychological obstacles that have prevented her from giving her all to what's important. Jones plays this brilliantly displaying a heroine that is vulnerable and nuanced in all the right ways. Not to be outdone, Glen Powell is a bonified showstopper as Tyler Owens. On the surface, he seems like an ego-driven social media star in it for the cheap thrills. However, as the story goes on, you realize he's more than just a thrill seeker with a perfect jawline. He is passionate about helping people in need and isn't afraid to put himself in harm's way for others. Powell's charisma and charm shine from scene to scene and his chemistry with Jones makes for some great character moments for both performers. 

Firestorm!!!

Javi, played by Anthony Ramos, is a strong standout in his own right. His arc is about finding out what he's fighting for and who he's really doing the work for. His allegiance and morality are tested as he's forced to make a choice between people and profit. It's a satisfying arc that fleshes out his character very well and Ramos continues to impress with the quality work he is given. The supporting cast of Katy O'Brian, Sasha Lane, Brandon Parea, and Tunde Adebimpe are super fun to watch as Dani, Lily, Boone, and Dexter while David Corenswet delivers as well as despicably unlikeable Scott. Performance from the cast is solid all around, but if you're coming for thrills, best believe Twisters has you covered. Much like the 1996 classic, Twisters has a grounded grit to it that amplifies the danger creating tension that puts the audience on edge. It truly is a thrill ride on screen with the sound mixing truly engulfing you in the beasts of the storms. Another aspect of the film I admire is the doubling down on the reality of what these storms do to people in the sense of the aftermath. While it is briefly touched on in the original, the film makes it clear that the effects of a tornado go beyond just destroyed property. Lives and livelihoods are also lost and it leaves people open to exploitation from those with corrupt hidden intentions. It is a reminder that it is never too dangerous to do the right thing and save lives. Not something you expect to get out of a summer weather film. All in all, Twisters is a fun thrill ride that offers everything you want in a summer blockbuster. It's also a film with a strong message about facing trauma and doing right by the people who need aid. It's remarkable to see a film build on what made the original such an iconic movie and redefine it for a new generation in the best way possible. A movie that proves what one is capable of if you're brave enough to weather the storm.

Rating and Final Thoughts

Thrilling, poignant, and a blast from start to end, Twisters takes the great things about its 1996 
predecessor to create a thrilling modern update.

Is anyone looking for a Nado Wrangler?

Re-Porter Blog 2024 Summer Movie Season - July Preview

 

Hello followers!!! Welcome to the second half of 2024. The first half of the year brought a ton of incredible moments including our first billion-dollar film of the calendar year. But the fun doesn’t stop there. Historically, July always supplies us with show-stopping fireworks. This year will see Minions, Storm Chasers, and an unlikely duo teaming up in one of the year's most anticipated blockbusters. Let’s kick the tires and light the fires as we break down all on the horizon in our month 3 preview.

Despicable Me 4 (Universal Pictures/Illumination, 
July 3rd)

The Family That Spies Together 

Gru has come a long way from being the dastardly villain he once was. Now a devoted family man with a newborn baby, Gru is still learning the ropes regarding parenting. But Gru can’t seem to outrun his past as an old enemy escapes from prison looking to exact revenge. Now Gru must muster up all the courage and rely on his family to combat forces that threaten his new life. Gru and company are back for an all-new adventure that sees our villain-turned-hero dad battling the trials of fatherhood and other people who are still in the life he once had. Madness ensues and the fireworks will fly when Despicable Me  4 arrives tomorrow.

Latest Trailer

Fly Me To The Moon
 (Columbia Pictures, July 12th)

Spaced Out

The moon landing is one of American history's most influential and important moments. An authentic display of honesty and integrity. Or was it? When a marketing executive and an official at NASA are tasked with assisting with the upcoming Appolo 11 moon landing, they come up with the best possible solution.... faking the upcoming Appolo 11 moon landing. Channing Tatum and Scarlett Johansson star in the humorous retelling of the mayhem of the 1960s space race. Through sheer determination (and some slight deception), these individuals will look to push the country in a direction that will elevate it to new heights. Get ready for the greatest lie ever told when Fly Me To The Moon arrives in cinemas on July 12th.

Latest Trailer

Twisters (Universal Pictures, July 19th)

Ride It Out

Mother nature can be a violent force. It can have no remorse and no regard for human life. So what happens when we try to control Mother Nature to fit our needs and wants? The results could be catastrophic and deadly. Over a decade and a half since the classic 1996 disaster blockbuster, Daisy Edgar Jones, Glen Powell, & Anthony Ramos emerge as a new generation of storm chasers looking to change the game. Will their escapades result in success or sudden death? The summer's most thrilling ride could have us seeing double when Twisters arrives in theaters on July 19th.

Latest Trailer

Marvel Studios' Deadpool & Wolverine
 (Marvel Studios, July 26th)

X-Forced

You rarely get an opportunity to do something you've always wanted to do. Even better when you get to do it with someone you've always wanted to work with. Wade Wilson has been on the outside looking in when it comes to the Marvel heroverse. When his escapades in Deadpool 1 & 2 catch the attention of the Time Variance Authority, Wilson gets the chance at the dream role of a lifetime...become part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Even better, he'll have the chance to do it with someone who also is long overdue for a chance at redemption...the legendary Wolverine. The biggest event of the summer is coming with sharp claws and blades. The long-awaited debut of Deadpool in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is finally here and he's bringing his best "bub" with him along for the ride. Mayhem, chaos, and f-bombs aplenty will be around every corner when Deadpool & Wolverine slice into theaters on July 26th.

Latest Trailer

An exciting month of cinematic action is just one day away. Be on the lookout for the reviews for these films and more in the coming weeks. Till next time, have a wonderful week and enjoy your 4th of July holiday.