2016 Summer Movie Season - Month 3 Preview (July 2016)

Big Beyond Comparison!!!! Pets, Giants, Busters, and Enterprise Crew Headline Big Screen Fireworks!!!!!

By Brandon Porter

Hello Followers!!! We are officially about to enter the second half of 2016 and the high point of summer movie season. Huge movies featuring appearances from a friendly giant, the behind closed doors escapades of household pets, the return of Tarzan, the crew of the USS Enterprise, the paranormal response team, and one of the world most skilled covert agents are ready to rock the silver screen in July. There is a lot to cover so lets do the run down in our July preview.

The Legend of Tarzan (Warner Bros Pictures; July 1st) 

Return of The Ape Man

John Clayton III is a high level member of the English society and is known by all. But only a few know him for his true identity...Tarzan, the legendary man raised by apes. Thought to have left his past behind, a vengeful enemy threatens to destroy him and the people he loves. Faced with protecting his loved ones, John Clayton must return to the jungle to reclaim his forgotten identity and bring peace against those who threaten it. Alexander Skarsgard transforms into the fabled character that is beloved by all alongside Christoph Waltz, Samuel L Jackson, and Margot Robbie in the epic retelling of the classic story from director David Yates. Witness the legend reborn as The Legend of Tarzan swings into theaters July 1st. 

Check Out The Latest Official Trailer

The BFG (Walt Disney Pictures/Amblin Entertainment; July 1st) 

Big, Giant, and Friendly

Sophie has always heard tales on what makes the winds howl and what makes some children disappear at night, But she never imagined she would come face to face with the legendary and much feared giant, However, this giant is not like the one she's heard about in stories. This giant is kind, considerate, and above all, friendly. Faced with overwhelming obstacles and "bad" evil giants, Sophie and her new friend embark on an unforgettable adventure of epic proportions. Based on the beloved children's novel from Roald Dahl and directed by one of the greatest cinematic storytellers of all time, Disney, Amblin Entertainment, and Steven Spielberg bring you a tale of heart, courage, and adventure. Experience the magic of a journey of endless imagination when The BFG hits theaters July 1st. 

Check Out The Latest Official Trailer

The Secret Life of Pets (Universal Pictures/Illumination Entertainment; July 8th) 

Doggone Shame

When the humans leave the house, does anyone ever wonder what their pets do when their not around? Some play loud music, some eat all the food, while others just goof off and cause a ruckus. Max, on the other hand, just waits for his owner Katie to come home. When Katie comes home with a new dog, Duke soon feels as if he's getting replaced. In all the chaos, the two canines get lost and find themselves in the underground world of pets. Determined to get to his owner, Max must journey across all of Manhattan to get to Katie and the friends who are looking for him. Behind an all star cast featuring Louis CK, Kevin Hart, Hannibal Buress, and Jenny Slate, the humans behind Despicable Me bring a tale of a "what if scenario" for the little friends in our lives. Get ready for the fur to fly when The Secret Life of Pets walks into theaters July 8th.

Check Out The Latest Official Trailer

Ghostbusters (Columbia Pictures; July 15th) 

The Next Calling

Three decades ago, New York was saved by four scientist who specialized in paranormal pest problems. Now, a new team made up of four young women now take on the task and will become the cities' only hope in avoiding a global apocalypse. From the director of Bridesmaids and starring Melissa McCarthy, Leslie Jones, Kristen Wiig, and Kate McKinnon, Sony brings the beloved ghost fighting team back for a new generation. Witness the new team answer the call when Ghostbusters arrives in theaters July 15th.

Check Out The Latest Official Trailer

Star Trek Beyond (Paramount Pictures/Skydance; July 22nd) 

The Fighting Frontier

Ever since James T Kirk took command of the enterprise, He has endured massive challenges that have shaped him and his crew. But nothing could prepare him for what his next obstacle holds in store, Faced with a deadly new enemy that leaves his ship destroyed and his crew scattered, Kirk must find the strength and resolve within himself and save his crew from the wrath of a destructive tyrant. Director Justin Lin and producer J.J Abrams bring the next chapter in the high successful Star Trek reboot. Witness one of Enterprise Crew's finest moment when Star Trek Beyond warps into theaters on July 22nd. 

Check Out The Latest Official Trailer

Jason Bourne (Universal Pictures; July 29th) 

Remember Me?

The man known as Jason Bourne has become nothing more than a whisper within the world of espionage. However, after years in hiding, he has resurfaced and has become a target for agency higher ups. But Bourne's tactics and patterns seem to lead people to believe he's after a target that people don't know about. What is he after and what will become of the world if he succeeds? Matt Damon returns to his most prominent and famous role alongside Tommy Lee Jones, Alicia Vikander, and director Paul Greengrass. Witness the next installment in the high octane action franchise when Jason Bourne returns to theaters on July 29th.

Check Out The Latest Official Trailer

An exciting assortment of movies heading our way this month and I can hardly wait. Be on the watch for the reviews of these movies and more in the coming weeks. Have a great afternoon followers.

2016 Summer Movie Season - Month By Month Recaps

Summer Movie Season 2016 (Month 2 Recap)

Happy Hump Day Followers!!!! Hope you are all enjoying the Summer season so far. We are now in the final days of June and it has been a whirlwind that has come and gone quickly. Before we prepare to enter the third quarter of 2016, let's go over the big films that were released this month.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of The Shadows

 The Turtles returned to the silver screen following a good but not great reintroduction and delivered one of the most entertaining and fun movies of the summer so far. Great action, humor, and heart culminated into an authentic TMNT cinematic spectacle. COWABUNGA!!!!

   

Warcraft

 The on screen adaptation of one of the biggest gaming franchises ever was met with polarizing reception. Though some praised its action, visuals, and world building, other criticized it's plot and lack of character development. A modest but less than satisfying film to say the least.

  

Now You See Me 2

The sequel to the magic heist caper delivered the same on your toes narrative and eye popping magician flair that made the first movie such a hit. Great performances from newcomers and old vets, spectacular visual effects, along with great magical sequences allowed the second film to be just as memorable as the first. 

Finding Dory

 Thirteen years is a long time to wait for a sequel to a movie that is beloved by all. But if the results are like what is seen in Finding Dory, than the wait is more than worth it. A stellar performance from Ellen DeGeneres, amazing visuals, and an emotionally powerful story. Pixar has delivered a praise worthy sequel and another studio masterpiece.

Central Intelligence

 The action buddy comedy featuring two of the biggest stars in Hollywood ended up surprising a lot of people. Behind great action, fun performances from Johnson and Hart, and a solid story, Central Intelligence is a modest and funny summer comedy.

Independence Day Resurgence 

 In an age where dark, sinister, and serious summer action movies are all the rage, the sequel to the 1996 sci-fi classic chooses to go against the flow and deliver a stupid, dumb popcorn action flick that is entertaining throughout. though some will be turned off by it, the film never tries to be something it isn't and succeeds in showing what the summer movie is all about: fun, unserious, and an all around good time.

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

Best Box Office Numbers (As of June 29th, 2016)

1. Warcraft: $412.2 Million

2. Finding Dory: $408.4 Million

 

  

3. Now You See Me 2:  $161 Million

 

4. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of The Shadows: $154 Million

5. Independence Day Resurgence: $144.3 Million

6. Central Intelligence: $85.8 Million

Best Critical Success (via. Rotten Tomatoes)

1.  Finding Dory: (94% Certified Fresh)

2. Central Intelligence: (66% )

3. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of The Shadows (37%) 

4.  Now You See Me 2 (34%)

5. Independence Day Resurgence (33%)

6. Warcraft (30%)

What was your favorite movie in June? Be sure to stay locked for all the latest SMS post and news. Till next time followers.

2016 Summer Movie Season - Independence Day Resurgence: Review & Analysis

Welcome Back To Earth!!! Sequel to 1996 Blockbuster is Fun and Silly Summer Movie Bliss!!!

Review By Brandon Porter

We Always Knew They Would Comeback

Story Description

On the weekend of July 4th in 1996, Earth experienced an undeniable tragedy. An extraterrestrial armada ascended upon earth looking to destroy all life on the planet. Thankfully, a collection of brave individuals, including scientist David Levinson (Jeff Goldblum) and former president Thomas J Whitmore (Bill Pullman) came together and defeated the invaders saving the planet and inspiring a generation. 20 years later, Earth has seen much change. Using the technology of their fallen enemy, the military has upgraded their weaponry and vehicles to become a more technological advanced force. But in the 20 years of preparation, the aliens that once brought earth to near destruction...have returned with an even stronger armada. Faced with an equally stronger invading force, old allies and new heroes must rise up and fight for the survival of the human race. It will take grit, courage, sacrifice, and hope to save the planet from a second coming of potential extinction. Who will survive the next fight for Independence?!!!

Old friends stare down an old enemy.

Critical and Financial Analysis

When Independence Day hit theaters 20 years ago, it was a landmark hit and ushered in the genre we now refer to as the big budget summer action blockbuster. It's visual and practical effects were astounding even if the content was cheesy. Still the film is a fun Sci fi classic that is loved to this day. 20 years later, the sequel sees the return of the main cast (with one notable absence) for the next chapter. The early results were mixed to somewhat lackluster. A dismal 37% rating from critics and an equally dissapointing 47% rating from audiences tell the story of the follow up to the 96 classic. With a $4 million opening day haul, it seems that the series should have left at one movie. So much for a good fight.

No Landmark Is Safe

Film Review

It is always hard to follow up a classic especially 2 decades after the release. Independence Day Resurgence sees the return of old cast members and new comers for the next big struggle for intergalactic supremacy. After experiencing the film in IMAX, the film is a brainlessly entertaining and fun summer flick. Like it's predecessor, the film is aware of its outlandish and borderline ridiculousness and it is not afraid to make you aware, The film constantly makes fun of itself throwing gags and underlying jokes that make reference to the first movie. The fact that the movie never takes itself seriously is one of the biggest things I loved about the film. The performances were also a lot of fun as well. Returning cast members like Jeff Goldblum, Brent Spiner, Bill Pullman, and Judd Hirsch all deliver fun and engaging performances in their return roles. Goldblum and Spiner in particular have the most fun out of anybody and have some of the film's best comedic moments. As for the new characters, Jesse Usher, Liam Hemsworth, and Maika Monroe are a strong young nucleus that deliver solid performances in their own right and look able enough to carry the franchise if it continues, The film's action was another thing that was positive. It is the true definition of "big, loud, and fun". Several action sequences were very well executed and delivered fast paced excitement and spectacle. With all the positive things going for it, the film does get obviously quite predictable, but it doesn't deny you fun that comes with it. Overall, Independence Day Resurgence is the true blue representation of what a summer movie should be: big, loud, dumb, and fun. The sequel to the groundbreaking sci fi classic won't be recognized for its deep plot and characters, but it will be remembered for its uncanny ability to poke fun at its own absurdness and create a sense of lighthearted awe and excitement.

Rating and Final Thoughts 

A brainless, stupid, dumb, yet entertaining popcorn action summer spectacle.
IDR never tries to be something its not and succeeds in delivering
an authentic "summer at the movies" experience.

20 years later and the fight for Intergalactic Independence is just 
as silly, entertaining, and fun now as it was back in the mid 90's.

2016 Summer Movie Season - Finding Dory: Review & Analysis

Just Keep Swimming!!! Long Awaited Sequel To Beloved Pixar Film is An Unforgettable and Worth The Wait Emotional Odyssey!!!

Review By Brandon Porter

It's All Coming Back To Her!!!

Story Description

The lovable but forgetful blue tank Dory (Ellen DeGeneres) is enjoying life with her friends Marlin (Albert Brooks) and his son Nemo. However, deep down she longs for a connection to the family she misses and can't seem to remember. But after a sudden surge of memory gain, she realizes she has a shot of reuniting with her long lost parents. Traveling the ocean with old friends and meeting new ones along the way, Dory goes on an unforgettable adventure to find the family she thought she lost forever. 

Friends Help Each Other Through Thick and Fin.

Critical and Financial Analysis

Finding Nemo is one of the most beloved films in the Disney Pixar line up. It set the standard for not only animation but storytelling in general. After so many years of waiting, fans finally got their wish of a sequel with Finding Dory. Thirteen years between the two films clearly has people excited and it shows in the reactions. Finding Dory received an fantastic certified fresh critical score of 95% and an equally outstanding score of 91% from audiences via rotten tomatoes. Praise for the film came for its humor, performances, as well as its poignant and thought provoking themes. The film didn't just win over critics and fans. Finding Dory swam it's way into box office history with several record breaking achievements. The film set an animation record for a Thursday night opening with $9.2 million at the box office followed by a massive $55 million for Friday opening shows. After the weekend concluded the film scored a animated opening weekend record total of $136 million domestically.  Finding Dory swam into the hearts of millions and has become one of the most critically acclaimed and highest grossing films of the year. The lovable blue tank delivers an unforgettable and historical return to the big silver screen. 

HANDS!!!!

Film Review

As a long time fan of the classic Finding Nemo, I too was among the many movie goers that begged, prayed, and pleaded for a sequel to this amazing film. After Thirteen years, mine and millions of people around the world's prayers were answered. Finding Dory sees the return of the lovable blue tank and the comedic brilliance of Ellen DeGeneres. After finally being able to see the film, I am overjoyed to say the the wait was more than worth it. Finding Dory joins the company of the Toy Story series by having a sequel that improves and, in some ways, surpasses its predecessor. To start, the movie does an outstanding job of developing Dory as a character. For reason's I can't explain, Pixar has managed to take a character we already love and grow our love for her astronomically. The film's exploration of Dory's backstory is adorably cute and at times incredibly saddening. Ellen DeGeneres is flawless as Dory delivering an amazing and emotionally charged performance in her sophomore run as the character. Albert Brooks is equally great in his return as Marlin and Hayden Rolence delivers a fun performance as Nemo. Newcomers Ed O'Neill, Ty Burrell, and Kaitlin Olson also give memorable performances as Hank, Bailey, and Destiny respectively. The movie delivers on the laughs offering great comedic moments throughout and some very smile worthy nostalgia scenes. The film's biggest strength and surprise comes in the form of its unexpectedly devastating emotional thematic scenes. With Dory being such a terrific character, her development that occurs in this film really shows her very dark, lonely, and heartbreaking past. Her journey makes you sympathetic of her hardships and you root for her to succeed in what she is hoping to find. Several key scenes literally had tears streaming down my face. A beautiful way to expand on a character that is adored and loved by so many people. All in all, Finding Dory may have took a decade and three years to arrive, but in that time, Pixar created an engaging, funny, and emotionally enveloping story of a forgetful but lovable blue tank's journey of self discovery. She probably will most likely forget it but the audiences who grew up with her will remember it for years and years to come.

Rating and Final Thoughts 

Beautifully animated with hilarious gags, lovable characters new and old , and some hard hitting emotional
narrative flair, Finding Dory is an amazingly structured nostalgia trip that is entertaining, heartbreaking
and terrifically develops a loved and cherished character.

After 13 years, our love for this forgetful little blue tank has only been increased.
 This film has managed to make us not only understand
Dory, but know who she really is:
A Loving and lively character that just keeps swimming.

2016 Summer Movie Season - Now You See Me 2: Review & Analysis

An Eye for an Eye!!! Sequel to Magician Heist Film Delivers Magical Second Act!!!!

Review By Brandon Porter

Return of the Four Horsemen

Story Description

The talented group of magicians known as the four horsemen (Jeese Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, and Lizzy Caplan) and their leader (Mark Ruffalo), have gained global acclaim and recognition for their jaw dropping acts and Robin Hood type approach. However, an old enemy reemerges to enact revenge on the group that stopped him. Tasked with an even bigger challenge than before, the group must use their skill, wit, and cunning to stop a technological plot that threatens the nation. If you thought you've seen it all...you ain't seen nothing yet!!!

Didn't See That Coming

Critical and Financial Analysis

The sequel to the sleeper hit of 2013 saw significant praise for its on-your-toes plot and dazzling magic scenes. The sequel looks to continue the momentum with the "next act" in the magician heist franchise. Critically, the film earned a below average score of 35% from critics via rotten tomatoes while scoring a 68% fresh rating from audiences. Financially, NYSM 2 earned a modest $22 million at the box office and grabbed the 3rd spot in the domestic rankings. The sequel seems to offer things that build on the foundation of its predecessor, but it doesn't seem good enough for the ambitious 2nd act.

Can You STOP The Rain?

Film Review

The 2013 magician heist film was an original, unique, fun, and twisted film. It's plot kept you on your toes throughout and delivered  great effects and shocking twist you didn't see coming. The sequel see the return of the majority of the principal cast with new ones adding to the mix. After seeing the film, Now You See Me 2 is as magical and memorable as its predecessor. Filled with new characters and magic sequences as dazzling and imaginative as the first, NYSM 2 is a fun film from start to finish. The performances are fun to watch as Ruffalo, Eisenberg, Harrelson, Franco, and Freeman all deliver great second outings as their characters this time around. The new characters pull their fair share of the weight as well. Lizzy Caplan is so much fun to watch in the film and it shows in her performance. Her character is a great balance of sarcasm, quick wittiness, awkwardness, and sexiness to make her one of the standouts in this film. Daniel Radcliffe is equally entertaining as the antagonist. Being this is his first foray into not being the hero, he fits nicely and has fun in the role. The magic sequences in the film that made the first film so much fun return with equally stunning results and terrific showmanship. The card sequence in the security room, the macow corner store brawl, and the climax offer terrific on your toes spectacle. Another highlight is the film's ability to keep you guessing till the very end. Just like the first film, NYSM 2 kept me thinking I knew every step the story was taking only to be told that I was being misled from the very beginning. This element of narrative finesse is really what makes these two film stand out. Above all else, Now You See Me 2 is quite frankly a trick in itself displaying great magical sequences, witty comedic charm, and on your toes narrative flair. It truly shows how much this film and its predecessor stand out among the other film franchises in Hollywood. It certainly is a special type of series.

Rating and Final Thoughts 

Magical, Funny, Sexy, and Smart are the elements that make the latest installment

of this magician heist series among one of the most unique and imaginative film

franchises in modern Hollywood.

A Magical Second Act for A Very Unique, Original, and Special Type of Series.