Re-Porter Blog: Top 5 Films of 2012

 

 

Re-Porter Blog

Top 5 Films of 2012

 

Hey Followers, I know it must seem strange to be doing a blog post and it not be summer :-) But I decided to switch it up a bit this year. Being that your reading this latest post, I imply that you had a great Christmas and you survived the Apocalypse that was never going to happen in the first place. As the year 2012 inches closer to completion, You may have noticed trailers rolling in for films set to release in 2013 including films that will be featured in the 2013 Summer Movie Season. Before we enter the new year of films, Let me give you my top 5 films from this year.

 

 

 

  Chronicle (20th Century Fox)

It is amazing to me that a film that wasn't even on my top ten list for 2012 ended up being one of my favorite films of the year. Chronicle is part of the found footage genre putting in the same category as Paranormal Activity and End of Watch. The film tells the story of three high school seniors who stumble upon a crystal artifact beneath the surface of the ground. Afterwards, they are given supernatural abilities that expand their minds and test their psychological limits. The movie mainly centers around Dane DeHaan's character Andrew Detmer, a lonely and sad teen who has to deal with a dying mother, his abusive unemployed father, and bullies at school. He has a strained but stable relationship with his cousin Matt played by Alex Russell and the two of them befriend Steve Montgomery (Michael B. Jordan), the most popular guy in school with a seemingly privileged life. Using Andrew's camera, the trio documents what they can do with their newly acquired powers doing everything such as flying, levitation, and pulling harmless pranks. One of the film's biggest strengths is it's relatable and likeable characters. Alex Russell, Dane DeHaan, and Michael B. Jordan did outstanding jobs in giving their characters depth and substance. You immediately make an emotional connection the most with Andrew throughout the film. Andrew is a solid representation of what some teens in America go through whether it's an abusive or alcoholic parent, or being a victims of bullying. When Andrew gets his powers, they give him the opportunity to do something he has never been able to do before...fight back. When Andrew reaches his boiling point, the intensity and action picks up big time. The fight between Andrew and Matt is both emotional and jarring. It really shows how the powers change them into the person they are destined to be. I definitely recommend this film if your looking for a substitute from the found footage horror films. There are talks of the sequel that are beginning to take form. If this is true, I hope they will make the second one even more impactful then the first.

 

 

 

 

The Hunger Games (Lionsgate Studios)

Ok, I have to admit, even after the promotion for the film took place, I had never even heard of The Hunger Games or had any idea how huge it was. But after watching the first official trailer and reading the first book, my interest grew as well as my anticipation. I got a solid idea about how big this film was going to be just in the early part of February when merchandising and promotion picked up steam. In March, Me and the rest of The Hunger Games Nation finally experienced one of the biggest blockbusters of the year and possibly in recent memory. I definitely have to say I made a great decision reading the book first. It was one of the best books I ever read and the film was a great compliment to the acclaimed novel. From the iconic performance of Jennifer Lawrence, the real atmosphere created by Gary Ross, and the memorable and jarring moments in the arena made this a film worth experiencing. My favorite moments included the emotionally powerful Rue death scene played tremendously by Lawrence and her amazing on-screen partner Amandla Stenberg, the intense Cornucopia Scene, and the cave scene between Josh Hutcherson and Jennifer Lawrence. This film caught my interest enough prior to its release to pull me into this intriguing world filled with amazing acting talent and an unbelievably passionate fan base that I look forward to sharing this ride with for the next three years. The anticipated sequel Catching Fire has recently completed filming and both me and the HG Family can hardly wait to return to Panam for the latest adventure, The Third Quarter Quell. 

 

 

 

Marvel's The Avengers (Paramount Pictures)

Part of the reason this film is on my list is because I fear I'll be shunned by every comic book fan who lives in America. But on the real , this was one of the most kick-ass super hero films in the history of cinema!!! It's hard to believe that the hype for this film started with the release of Iron Man four years ago. Everything about this film was epic. From the unbelievable action, the realistic team scenarios, and amazing visual effects, this was the true definition of a summer blockbuster!!! It was the ultimate comic book movie made by comic book fans for comic book fans. And if you don't believe me, just look at the $1 Billion dollars the film ranked in. The road to Avengers 2, due for release in 2015, is already in motion with the upcoming releases of Iron Man 3 and the sequel to Thor both being released in 2013. Only time will tell whether or not the second installment of the Avengers will top the previous.

 

 

 

The Dark Knight Rises (Warner Bros. Pictures)

  Along with The Avengers and The Hunger Games, The Dark Knight Rises was one of the most anticipated and acclaimed films of the year. Christopher Nolan has established himself as one of Hollywood's most respected and best directors. From his intense filmmaking to his top notch cinematography, Nolan has a unique way of immersing his audience in his films...but also using the IMAX cameras helps too. The latest installment of Nolan's Dark Knight Trilogy finds Gotham in a seemingly stable period of piece. But when Bane, played by Tom Hardy, emerges from the shadows and creates utter chaos, Bruce Wayne returns as Batman to protect the city who shunned him and branded him a criminal. The film gives the audience a great conclusion to a trilogy that is in the same category as Star Wars, Lord of The Rings, and Harry Potter. The action of the film was an amazing display of chaos, mayhem, and all out brutality. The performances of Hardy, Anne Hathaway, Christian Bale, and other made this conclusion to this trilogy an epic spectacle. With Christopher Nolan serving as producer for Man of Steel in 2013, two questions arise: Will Batman return and Is a Justice League Movie On The Horizon?


 

Wreck-It Ralph (Walt Disney Pictures)

  Last but not least, is the hilarious and heartwarming Video Game film Wreck-It Ralph. The movie had me excited from the moment I saw the first trailer. When I finally saw the film in November, It exceeded my highest expectations. The amazing voice talent and hilarious antics that were featured in the film had me laughing all the way through. Despite the extremely funny moments, the film featured a strong emotional core that almost brought me to the brink of tears. This definitely will get my vote for best animated film of the year. Disney has really outdone themselves with this latest creative and intriguing movie that amazingly outdoes the most recent films by Pixar.




These five films captured my interest and took me on amazing adventures that blew me away, made me cry, and left my mouth wide open!!!  With 2013 only three days away, I look forward to  experiencing even more cinematic adventures that will give me the same impact. Thanks for Reading this latest post. I look forward to returning in the summer to give you reviews for the 2013 summer movie season, but until then...HAVE A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! :-)


  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2012 Summer Movie Season - The Dark Knight Rises: Review & Analysis

The Fire of A Neverending Legend Rises!!!! Chistopher Nolan's Dark Knight Finale Brings An Amazing Close to a Cinema Powerhouse.

  By: Brandon Porter


"You Don't Owe These People Anymore!...You've given them Everything!!!"
"Not Everything...Not Yet.." - Selina Kyle/Catwoman and Bruce Wayne/Batman

The Story

  
 

Eight Years Ago, the City of Gotham experienced a great terror. The notorious crime lord known as The Joker wreaked havoc across the city streets. Though he was eventually captured, another criminal was bringing suffering to the people of Gotham, celebrated police chief Harvey Dent. Heartbroken by loss and corrupted by tragedy, Dent killed innocent people in an attempt to quince his ever growing rage. Before taking the life of Commissioner Gordon (Gary Oldman) and his son, Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) as the Batman stopped Dent and saved them both. Not wanting ruin Dent's reputation and brand him as a criminal, Batman took the blame for Dent's murder and disappeared while the Gotham Police searched for him to bring him to justice. Eight Years later, Gotham is experiencing a substantial amount of peace. Commissioner Gordon has been emotionally conflicted being part of a monumental lie and neither Bruce Wayne nor Batman has been seen since Dent's death. But what seems calm and peaceful is only an inferno waiting to happen. In the depths of Gotham, a vicious mercenary named Bane (Tom Hardy) along with his militia are preparing to turn Gotham into a city of rubble. Convinced the city needs the caped crusader back in action, Bruce Wayne returns as Batman to stand for the city that branded him a criminal. With the aid of Gordon, a brave young officer named John Blake (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), and the mysterious Catwoman (Anne Hathaway), Batman will rise up against Bane and all the criminals of Gotham in a battle that will change the history of Gotham City forever. Hope Will Be Lost, Faith Will Be Broken, but a fire will RISE!!!! The Legend Of The Dark Knight will be concluded...

Bruce Wayne and Alfred inside Wayne Manor.

Analysis

Bane stands before Gotham with a picture of Harvey Dent
with his malitia ready and in waiting.

After the rousing success of The Dark Knight, Fans and Critics waited patiently for an announcement of the next chapter of the acclaimed franchise. On July 15th 2011, they got their first glimpse of the third installment. After a six minute prologue prior to the IMAX showing of Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol, and three theatrical trailers, the world was ready for the conclusion of the dark knight legend. So far, The Dark Knight Rises has in no way disappointed. The film has garnered a strong 87% Certified Fresh rating on rotten tomatoes. (The second highest score in the franchise surpassing Batman Begins’ score of 85%). Critics have been particularly praise worthy of the overall aspect of the film. The Telegraph granted the film a maximum score of five stars, stating that it is "a superhero film without a superhero," and compared it with The Godfather Part II. Andrew O'Hehir of Salon stated that "If The Dark Knight Rises is a fascist film, it's a great fascist film, and arguably the biggest, darkest, most thrilling and disturbing and utterly balls-out spectacle ever created for the screen". Roger Ebert gave the film a solid three out of four stars and said that "The film begins slowly with a murky plot and too many new characters, but builds to a sensational climax." However, though it may be hard to believe, there are some critics who have a negative outlook on Christopher Nolan's latest Batman epic. Chris Tookey of the Daily Mail complained that the film was bloated and overly long. He also criticized the film's tone and lack of humor, while still praising the film's visually impressive set pieces. As far as performances, Anne Hathaway garnered significant praise for her role as Catwoman as well as Tom Hardy and his performance as Bane. IGN.com stated that Hardy's performance as Bane was a little less interesting to watch in comparison with Heath Ledger's Joker, but was praise for his body language driven performance and menacing voice. With so much hype on the film, it seems The Dark Knight Rises has taken the praise and criticism in great strides and delivered the year’s biggest blockbuster. With Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy finally complete, the world can only wonder what the world of cinema will be like without the Dark Knight.

Bruce Wayne and Selena Kyle stare each other down while
engaging in an intimate dance at a charity ball.

The Battle For Gotham BEGINS!!!!!

Review

Like most movie fans, I was totally hyped to experience possibly the best film of the year in The Dark Knight Rises. After watching Marvel dish out The Avengers and The Amazing Spider-Man, I was very interested to see what DC comics had in store for their summer feature after the colossal flop of Green Lantern last year. I was lucky enough to catch a special advanced screening on Wednesday in IMAX. The result: An epic masterpiece to behold. This was definitely a movie that was worth waiting three years for. Even though this was the first Batman movie I have ever seen in theaters and the first one I've ever seen in IMAX, there is no drought I was treated to an all out spectacle. Christopher Nolan's finger prints are all over this film. The acting, the tone, and especially the action were all done in the great Nolan style we've come to no in love. There are an endless amount of positives that this film has that are going to be touched on in this review. One positive was the film's story telling. The story is given in such a jarring rate that there were moments were I literally was catching my breath. The amount of twist and turns in the film's plot had my head spinning. Christopher Nolan really takes your brain on one hell of a trip. He seriously is great at what he does psychologically to his viewers. He makes his viewers believe they know what's going on, and then out of nowhere, sends a curveball that catches you totally off guard and will have you scrambling to put the pieces together for this new story twist. This was a brilliant technique and Nolan used it to perfection in this film. But of course, the biggest positive was the action. This was definitely the best action movies I've seen all year. Intense, fast paced, and at sometimes jarring. The fights between Bane and Batman were both epic and brutal. While watching the first fight in Bane's lair was all out brutality!!! The sound of every punch, kick, and knee to the back had me constantly twitching, wincing, and verbally reacting in my seat. It was like Bane was beating ME up!!! It was also nice seeing the batwing in action and dishing out punishment on screen. The biggest thrill however was the film's epic climax. Watching Gotham's Police forces, Bane's army, Batman's rematch of against Bane, Catwoman's batpod assault, and among other things was truly an awe to behold. There were millions of things happening at once, my mind was in overdrive trying to keep up with it all. The end action sequences were absolutely spectacular in every senses of the word. As for the performances, they were all solid. Anne Hathaway, who I believe came in with the biggest amount of pressure, delivered a praise worthy performance as Selina Kyle. She had that sneaky, sultry, sexy, and sinister persona that really brought the character to life in Nolan's universe. Hathaway took the initial skepticism in stride and delivered a great performance as Batman unlikely ally. Tom Hardy was amazing in the film as well playing Bane. From his sinister voice to the terrifying body language, Hardy gave a performance that truly didn't need words. I can also tell that his physical status in the film was ever present. He literally looked the part of one scary but badass villain who could snap you like a twig in seconds. Joseph Gordon-Levitt was awesome as John Blake. He created an extremely likeable character despite him being only in this film. Marion Cotillard also delivered a great performance as Miranda Tate/Talia al Ghul. She had me thinking she was just another character and then revealed her true identity in the film's biggest plot twist. To be honest, I was utterly speechless when the film ended. The score, the action, the roller coaster ride plot, and the IMAX format was total summer movie bliss. But with the Legend of Batman finally coming to a close, One can only hope that DC comics' other crown jewel Clark Kent can fill the void in next summer's film Man of Steel.

Rating and Final Thoughs

99% A+

The third and final installment of Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight Saga was nothing short of epic. Nolan, the actors, and the entire film crew put their heart and soul to make the finale as memorable as ever. This is by far the best movie of the year.

The Dark Knight Trilogy is now complete and is the
end of Christopher Nolan's take on the legendary Caped
Crusader. But one question still remains, Is this truly the end
of Batman or is a new chapter set to unfold?

This Movie Review of The Dark Knight Rises Is Dedicated to the Families of the Victims of The Aroura, Colorado Shooting. May God Bless You and Keep You Lifted Up in Prayer during this Difficult time.

2012 Summer Movie Season - The Amazing Spider-Man: Review & Analysis

Welcome Back Spidey!!!! Marvel's Web-Slinger Makes Tremendous Return to Silver Screen!!!!
   By: Brandon Porter


 "I am issuing an Arrest Warrant for the masked vigilante known as Spider-Man." - Cpt. George Stacy

Hero, Menace, or Vigilante, Whatever you want to call him.
HE'S BACK!!!!

The Story

At six years old, Peter Parker's life took an unexpected and life changing turn. After having a stranger break into their house, Richard and Mary Parker leave their young son with his Aunt May and Uncle Ben (Martin Sheen and Sally Field) and disappear into the night never to be heard from again. Years later, a teenage Peter Parker (Andrew Garfield) is still trying to find answers to his parents' sudden disappearance. He soon finds a pivotal tool that may bring him closer to the truth he so desires. His discovery will have him coming in contact with his father's former partner Dr. Curt Connors (Rhys Ifans) and bring him closer to his high school crush Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone). But after a slight detour while on a facility tour of Oscorp, Peter finds himself bitten by a Spider and then gains super human strength, reflexes, and agility. When a mutant humanoid monster threatens to infect New York with a citywide virus, Peter Parker must answer the call and become one of the world’s greatest heroes...The Amazing Spider-Man!!!

Peter Parker Discusses the discovery of his father's briefcase
with his Aunt May and Uncle Ben.

Analysis

The first trailer for The Amazing Spider-Man was released in the summer of 2011 and was met with both confusion and skepticism. Though it had been over ten years since the first Spider-Man film was realized, it had only been four years since the third film, Spider-Man 3, was released. Many fans and audiences were puzzled on why a reboot of the franchise was coming so soon. As more and more trailers became released, interest grew as well as anticipation. With a new director, actors, and story, the world prepared itself for the return of Spider-Man. The Amazing Spider-Man received very solid reception from fans and critics all around. A Certified Fresh Rotten Tomatoes score of 73% and $145 million dollars at the box office as of July 7th, it is apparent that fans and critics have embraced the new Spidey. Roger Ebert awarded the film 3 and a half out of 4 stars stating that compared to the Spider-Man from ten years ago, The Amazing Spider-Man gives more vivid detail on why Peter throws himself into the superhero role. On the down side, some critics basically as expected criticized the film believing it was revisiting plot points that were already explored in the previous trilogy. But despite the criticism, the good outweighs the bad. The Amazing Spider-Man is a great step forward in a new direction for the franchise. With more films already in the process of happening, the team at Marvel has established a good foundation to build upon.

Emma Stone and Andrew Garfield's On-Screen Chemistry
was stong if not stronger than Tobey Maguire and Kristen
Dunst's in the first trilogy.

Spider-Man Swings into action to combat Curt Connors AKA
The Lizard!!!

 Review

  Like many fans, I too was skeptical with the Spider-Man reboot. However, after Spider-Man 3 left kind of a bad taste in everyone’s mouth, I concluded the decision was just. I finally saw the film in IMAX 3D on July 6th and I must say…It exceeded my highest expectations!!! The Amazing Spider-Man is another Marvel Studios knockout. There are so many positives about this film. The film's tone delivered a darker and more mature theme which is what was promised prior to the film's opening. The plot was also a very different from the films that came before it. The story explored plot points that I never saw in the original trilogy. This differentiated the film from the others. Another huge plus was the Action. Comparing this film to the previous Spider-Man films, this one in completely conquers them all. The action sequences were thrilling, fast paced, intense, and overall fun to watch. This is exactly how a Spider-Man film should be in terms of action in my book. Acting was another huge plus in the film as well. I will say this without regret...Andrew Garfield is a better Spider-Man than Tobey Maguire!!! There I said it and I'm not taking it back. The reason I say this is because Garfield brings much more feeling, emotion, and depth to the character than Maguire did in the previous films. In terms of Spider-Man's humor, Garfield got it spot on!!! He perfectly captures Spider-Man's sarcastic personality as well as delivering his quick witty jokes, one of the things I love so much about the character. Emma Stone was great in her role as Gwen Stacy. She never really played the damsel in distress that Kristen Dunst did as Mary Jane Watson. She portrayed her character a smart, independent, and quick thinking. I look forward to seeing her in the future films. Rhys Ifans is solid Curt Connors as he delivers a villain who can only be described as "A good man who becomes corrupted and twisted in his pursuit of a greater purpose." I felt sympathy for his character and hated how he becomes corrupted when all he wanted to do was help others. This film compared to the other three, was also more emotionally engaging. Though Ben Parker dies in this one just as in Spider-Man, His death in The Amazing Spider-Man was far more impactful and hit me more emotionally than the one in 2002. Overall, The Amazing Spider-Man was a pleasant surprise and an awesome experience. This is definitely a welcome return for one of my all time favorite superheroes.

Rating and Final Thoughs

91% A-

Skeptical at first, I couldn't be happier with how the Spider-Man reboot came out. With a dark tone on par with Batman Begins, Strong and engaging performances, and thrilling action, The Amazing Spider-Man can be placed among one of Marvel Studios' best.

The Amazing Spider-Man truly reminded me why I love the
character so much. I am truly pleased with how Marc Webb
and the crew brought one of my favorite superheros back
to life in the best way possible.

2012 Summer Movie Season - Month 3 Preview (July 2012)

One Legend Ends, Another Begins!!! Caped Crusader and Web Slinger Headline July Movie Line Up
    By: Brandon Porter


Hey Followers!!! I don't think I have to stress how big Month 3 of the Summer Movie Season. Marvel and DC Comics are going head to head in an all out superhero film duel. The story Peter Parker is retold anew in the reboot of the Spider-Man franchise. Then, in possibly the most anticipated film of 2012, Christopher Nolan's Legend of The Dark Knight concludes and promises to be the most epic experience of the year. Without further ado, lets breakdown the firework display for this month!!!!

Spider-Man makes his big screen return in the untold story of
Peter Parker.

The Amazing Spider-Man (Columbia Pictures/Marvel Studios, July 3rd)


10 years ago, Sam Raimi released the first ever live-action adaption of the popular Marvel Comic, Spider-Man. The film would spawn two sequels creating one of the best superhero trilogies ever. Fast forward to now, and that journey is about to be taken again. Mark Webb takes to the director’s chair to chronicle the untold story of teen Peter Parker's rise from conflicted teen to one of Marvel Comic's most iconic and beloved characters. With new actors such as Andrew Garfield (The Social Network), Emma Stone (The Help, Crazy, Stupid, Love), and Denis Leary, a new plot, and a new suit, Webb intends to bring a fresh take on Spider-Man's story for a new generation to cherish. The Untold Secrets of the wall-crawling hero will be revealed when The Amazing Spider-Man swings into theaters and IMAX 3D on July 3rd.

Bruce Wayne returns as Batman to save Gotham from his
most menacing and powerful foe yet..Bane!!!

The Dark Knight Rises (Warner Bros. Pictures, July 20th)


There is always a franchise once in a generation that thrills, captivates, and is just plain epic!!! Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight Trilogy is exactly that. Nolan has not only revolutionized one of DC Comics' most famous superheroes, but he has also revolutionized the world of cinema. In 2008, The Dark Knight became one of the greatest films of all time. Breaking numerous records, garning a number of awards and nominations, and helping the Batman legend reach epic status. On the 20th of July, The legend and tale of Batman will conclude. Christopher Nolan prepares to give the world a monumental spectacle in The Dark Knight Rises!!! Set years after the previous film, Batman returns from the shadows to combat the menacing gang lord Bane!!! With the entire city of Gotham on the verge of a city wide criminal uprising, the caped crusader will rise to put the corrupt and villainous in their place once and for all. Experience the epic conclusion to the Dark Knight legend when The Dark Knight Rises arrives in theaters and IMAX July 20th.






I don’t know about you followers but the anticipation for these two superhero epics has me drooling with excitement. It is shaping up to be an amazing month in the summer movie season and I guarantee..There will be fireworks at the box office this month!!! Be on the lookout for the reviews of these two blockbusters in the coming weeks. See ya then!!!!

Get Ready For a July Super fest!!!! Two of Comic Book histories most famous faces go toe to toe in battle for box office Supremacy!!!!

2012 Summer Movie Season - Brave: Review & Analysis

Back on Target!!! Pixar's First Heroine Brings Studio Back To Critical Prowess
   By: Brandon Porter



"If You Had the Power to Change Your Fate...Would You?" - Merida

Introducing Pixar's First Female Heroine...Merida
of Clan DunBroch!!!!

The Story

In the highlands of 10th Century Scotland lives the DunBroch family. Ruled by King Fergus (Billy Connolly), his beloved wife Queen Elinor (Emma Thompson) along with their three sons Harris, Hubert, and Hamish and their free spirited daughter Princess Merida (Kelly Macdonald). For years, Merida has become her own person and has tried to shape her own destiny. But her mother seems to be down her throat about every little thing she does. Queen Elinor constantly bombards her daughter with never ending lectures and seminars on how to become a "true" princess. Fearing her destiny is being shaped for her, Merida journeys to change her fate and take back control of her life. Little does she know, her escapades will reawaken an ancient curse that threatens not only her family, but the future of the entire kingdom. Merida must now take a life changing journey to set things right and truly discover what it means to be brave.

             

The DunBroch Family at Dinner inside their Castle

Analysis

After the critical failure of Cars 2 last year, Pixar Studios was, for the first time, was on the negative end of critical acclaim. The studios next project, Brave, would be the studios chance to show critics they are still the same magical company that brought the world some of cinemas greatest animated stories. With a strong female heroine, a dark tone, and a family themed plot, Pixar was looking to make a strong comeback as a cinema powerhouse. In the end, they did just that. Brave prove to be a great success receiving a 75 % Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes and earning the #1 spot at the box office its opening weekend with $66.3 million dollars. Roger Ebert gave the film 3 out of 4 stars stating even though the kids will ultimately love it, the adults will be underwhelmed at considering this a Pixar masterpiece. He stated the films message of mother/daughter communication was a wonderful addition to the storytelling. To some critics, Brave may not be Pixar's best work, but it is a solid film that has great depth, heartfelt comedy, and fun enjoyable moments.

With sword in hand, Merida stands ready for anything, that
threatens her or her family

Review

I have been watching the development of Brave ever since leaning of its existence a year ago. Though I thoroughly enjoyed Cars 2, I felt that the studio should come back strong the next year and bring that great magic with them. I saw Brave a few days back on Saturday and was very satisfied with the results. The film was a huge improvement from Cars 2 a year ago. The film carried a much darker and serious tone that I felt the studio handled very well without shunning its core audience…the kids.

One of the things that pleased me about the film was the trials it take its heroine through. Both Merida and her mother both have flaws. Whether it is selfishness or the inability to listen to each other, the spiritual journey the two of them take together strengthens their bond and brings them closer together. Another thing that surprised me the most was the action in the film. The action was very exciting especially for a Pixar film. The climactic battle between Mor' Du and Elinor as a bear was very intense and thrilling to the end. There hasn't been a film by the studio this action packed since The Incredibles. As for the characters, Merida is a tremendous protagonist in the film. Her strength and bravery are exactly what young girls need in a female heroine. With Katniss Everdeen of The Hunger Games becoming a beacon of empowerment for pre-teen girls, it's good to know young girls at ages of 10 and below have their own on screen heroine. However, despite Merida being a solid main character, its her brothers, Harris, Hubert, and Hamish, who really steal the show. Their antics and acts of mischief had audiences laughing throughout the film. Overall, this was a very enjoyable film that had me satisfied in every way and assured me that Pixar still has some magic left in them.

Rating and Final Thoughs

88% 8+

Mixing the action of The Incredibles with the parent to child journey of Finding Nemo, Brave is another example why Pixar is good at what they do and that's making great family films that inspire as well as entertain.

  

Pixar has created a great symbol of enpowerment for young girls everywhere.
Someone who is strong, good willed, independent, and just plain BRAVE.

 

2012 Summer Movie Season - Snow White and the Huntsman: Review & Analysis

Retelling the Legend!!! Universal Gives Darker Take on Classic Childhood Fairy Tale
  By: Brandon Porter



"Lips Red as Blood..Hair Black as Night...Bring Me Your Heart...My Dear Dear Snow White." - Queen Raveena

"Mirror, Mirror On the Wall..

Who is The Fairest of them All?"

"You Are the Fairest...But there is

Another destined..

To Surpass You..."

The Story

Once upon a time, a kingdom lived and prospered under King Magnus and Queen Eleanor. While admiring a red rose that bloomed bright in the coldest winter, she wished for a child who could match the beauty of that rose. Thus, Snow White was born. Years later, the Queen tragically passed away leaving Snow White and her father in charge of the kingdom. But soon, the King becomes marries a seemingly innocent and frightened woman named Ravenna (Charlize Theron) only to discover she is a powerful sorceress who destroys kingdoms and lives. Once in control, the newly christened Queen Ravenna seizes control of the entire kingdom and looks poor Snow White in a dungeon in the north tower. Now a young adult, Snow White (Kristen Stewart) has discovered that Queen Ravenna requires her heart to gain immortality. Upon hearing this, she flees into the Dark Forest, only to be tracked down by Eric, (Chris Hemsworth) a drunken huntsman with a broken heart. The two encounter many friends and enemies including the mysterious dwarves and Prince William (Sam Claflin). Together, they must rise up and against the Queen's evil reign and restore peace and prosperity throughout the land. The Legend Retold Anew and rest assure...its No Fairy Tale!!!

Analysis 

Charlize Theron Gives a commanding
presence as the Sinister Queen Raveena

   


Eric The Huntsman (Chris Hemsworth)
stands before the Queen and her gaurds
awaiting an important assignment.

Snow White and the Huntsman was the second of two Snow White films to be released in 2012. The first film, Mirror, Mirror starring Julia Roberts and Lily Collins, was more of a light hearted take on the fairy tale similar to the Disney version people know so well. After a subpar box office performance and a 50% on Rotten Tomatoes, people were eager to see what the darker and grittier version offered. With a disappointing 46% on Rotten Tomatoes, it seemed some audiences and critics found the film somewhat underwhelming. Rotten Tomatoes stated that the film suffered from uneven acting, problematic pacing, and a confused script. However, Roger Ebert gave the film a strong 3.5 out of 4 stating, "The movie tries to recapture some of the menace of the stories that used to be told to scare children rather than console them." Most of the film's praise went to Charlize Theron's performance as Queen Ravenna as well as Kristen Stewart's performance as Snow White. Negative reviews stated that the film was boring and lacked depth and character development. Mick LaSalle from the San Francisco Chronicle states that Snow White and the Huntsman is a slow, boring film that has no charm and is highlighted only by a handful of special effects and Charlize Theron's truly evil queen." Financially, the film did admirably well. Snow White and the Huntsman garnered $56 Million dollars on its opening weekend knocking off Men in Black 3 as the number 1 movie at the box office in addition to a worldwide total of $95 Million. Though it isn't a surprise that Snow White and the Huntsman is not the best movie of the year, it still managed to please a large majority of moviegoers. Everyone has their own opinion, but the end result is a mixed bag.

 

Review
 


Snow White (Above) and
 Eric (Below) lead an attack on
Queen Ravenna's Castle.

  In the begining, Snow White and the Huntsman was nowhere on
 my Summer Movie radar. But after a few trailers, I decided to give it a shot. I knew I was taking a rather huge risk being that the film was outside of my preferred genre which is Intense Sci-Fi Action, but I wanted to give it a chance. In the end, I'm pretty satisfied with the results. The film was decent and had good action. The visual effects were what really won me over. The amount of detail and work that went in creating these amazing settings and creatures was a spectacle itself. Action was pretty well done in the film. But like I said before, my preferred action is Sci-Fi, so I kind of came in with low expectations from the start. The action sequences I enjoyed the most were the ones that featured Sam Claflin's character William. I felt his action scences were the best in the film. Acting was solid from all members of the cast. Kristen Stewart gave a really good performance as Snow White. She really had a convincing british accent and brought as much life to the character as she could. On top of that, Stewart in some moments looked stunningly gorgeous on screen. She has the innocence and kind hearted persona needed for the character. Chris Hemsworth I felt had the easiest time getting his character down. All he had to do was take instances from Thor and incorporate them into the character. Charlize Theron however, gave the best performance as Queen Ravenna. Her character was also the only one who got a significant amount of depth. Theron really played the character well and was a very convincing villain. In short, part of me expected more from the film while the other part was iffy from the get go. It was a good film but more of a onetime thing rather than a traditional trip back.

Rating and Final Thoughs

81% B-

Though not the best film of the summer, Snow White and the Huntsman still manages to impress with a twist and turn plot, great special effects, good acting, and solid action. Evaluations of this film and Mirror, Mirror should be made to make sure other Snow White adaptions bulid on the good and do away with the bad.