Re-Porter Blog 2022 Summer Movie Season - Month 3 Preview (July 2022)

Red Hot Boom!!! Gods, Minions, UFOs and Superpets Bring Explosive Action to July Lineup.

By Brandon Porter

Hello Followers!!! July 4th weekend is upon us and just like every year the fireworks are both outside and on the screen. Some of the biggest summer blockbusters have placed there mark in this month and this year is no different. An explosive month three is about to begin so lets breakdown July and prepare for the big showcase.

Minions: The Rise of Gru
 (Universal Pictures/Illumination, July 1st)

Minion Mayhem

With so much competition in the villain game, it takes a lot of persistence, patience and innovation to stand out amongst a crowd. For aspiring villain Gru, his ascension will have a plethora of challenges. Luckily, he has his legion of minions to back him up as he begins his quest to be the greatest super villain of all time. The latest entry in the Despicable Me franchise and the sequel to the 2015 prequel, the dispicable villain to to be must stack up to the competition and make his presence felt amongst other formidable baddies. Witness the rise of a legend when Minions The Rise of Gru hits theaters on July 1st.

Latest Trailer

Marvel Studios' Thor: Love and Thunder
 (Marvel Studios, July 8th)

Love Struck

As one of the founding members of the avengers, Thor Odinson has endured a lot in his lifetime. Now on the precipice of a new journey, Thor sees his pass return in an unexpected way that will guide him in the next stage of his life. The next installment in the Marvel cinematic universe sees the mighty god of thunder picking up Stormbreaker once more alongside with some old friends including an old romantic flame from his past. The most explosive romcom of the summer arrives in full force when Thor Love & Thunder lands in the theaters on July 8.

Latest Trailer

Nope
 (Universal Pictures, July 22nd)

Hell To The Naw

Everyone knows if you see something mysterious in the area, you run. That being said, passing up an opportunity for a get rich quick scheme seems like an even worse option. Or so I’ve heard. A pair of siblings operating out of a California ranch will contend with the wrath of an unidentified flying object and it’s mysterious but menacingly ominous occupants. The question is if they get the proof will they live to tell the tale? Director Jordan Peele returns to the silver screen to deliver his latest cinematic endeavor that promises suspense, terror and just straight up bonkers weirdness. Dare to stick around and check things out despite all the signs that you shouldn’t when Nope arrives in theaters on July 22.

Latest Trailer

DC's League of Superpets (Warner Bros Pictures/Warner Animation Group, June 24th)

Fur Fighters

You know all about some of the greatest superheroes to ever walk the earth. Now prepare to meet their furry companions. When the greatest heroes on the planet are captured, it’s up to a team of misfit pets with newly acquired powers to save their owners and the world at large. A new league of heroes will emerge when DC League of Superpets walks into theaters July 29th.




Latest Trailer

Reviews for these movies and more will be on there way soon. Have a safe July 4th weekend everyone. See ya on the next one!!!

2022 Summer Movie Season - Month By Month Recaps

 

SMS Month 2 Recap (June 2022)

Hello followers. June is just about wrapped up bringing the latest month of the summer movie season to a close. Some big films have dropped this month so as we head into month 3 let's break down everything we got with our second recap.

Jurassic World Dominion

The explosive finale of the Jurassic franchise brought plenty of fast paced action, chaos, and nostalgia as they concluded a story that began almost 30 years ago. The future of the franchise may be in limbo now but the world showed there is still room for life to find a way.

Lightyear

After a two-year hiatus from theaters, Pixar Animation Studios delivered an epic space adventure featuring one of the most iconic characters in the studio’s history. Brimming with action, adventure, humor and heart, Lightyear was a great reintroduction of Pixar to theatergoers.

Elvis

Many people know his music, few people know him as a man. Director Baz Luhrmann look to show both sides in an exhilarating visual and audio feast celebrating the king of rock and roll. Austin Butler delivers a standout performance as one of music’s most iconic pioneers. A fitting tribute to a man who was the definition of royalty.

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

Best Box Office Numbers (As of June 29th, 2022)

1. Jurassic World Dominion: $756.2 million

2. Lightyear: $156 Million

3. Elvis: $60.7 Million

Best Critical Success (via. Rotten Tomatoes)

1. Elvis (78% Certified Fresh)

2. Lightyear (75% Certified Fresh)

3. Jurassic world Dominion (30%)

What was your favorite movie that came out in June? Be sure to check in tomorrow as we look forward to the films on our way in July. Have a happy hump day followers.

2022 Summer Movie Season - Lightyear: Review & Analysis

Good Space!!!!! Spiritual Toy Story Spin-Off Is Fun Family Adventure!!!! 

Review By Brandon Porter

You know the toy. Now, meet the man.

Story Description

Elite pilot and esteemed member of the space ranger corps Buzz Lightyear (Chris Evans) is the purest example of high standard. Calm under pressure, reliable in stark situations, and a beacon of inspiration for those who strive to be like him. Alongside his commanding officer and best friend Alicia Hawthorne (Uzo Adoba), Buzz is determined to do whatever it takes to help his crew escape an uncharted planet and return home safely. A new mission involving the use of an experimental power source could be the ticket that Buzz and the colony need to get back to civilization. But what is thought to be just a simple there-and-back test flight soon turns into a dire and harrowing situation. But as soon find some self thrust 60 years into the future with little to no sign of his comrades. He finds allies in Hawthorne’s young granddaughter Izzy (Keke Palmer), ex-con Darby Steel (Dale Soules), and anxious recruit Morrison (Taika Waititi). Together, they must rely on each other strengths and resolve to survive the onslaught of a dangerous robot armada led by a tyrannical warlord named Zurg (James Brolin) and Buzz must answer the call and become the intergalactic hero that will change the galaxy forever.

Buzz and Alisha tackle the challenges of this new frontier 
together.

Film Review

Many people know about Buzz Lightyear the toy. But a few people know about the man who was his inspiration. A spiritual spin-off to Pixar’s crown jewel franchise and the first Pixar Animation Studios film to see a theatrical release since 2020, Lightyear is the definitive origin story of the space ranger that gave birth to one of the most iconic characters in the Toy Story series. After blasting off on this adventure with the heroic space ranger of Star Command, Lightyear delivers in terms of offering a fun-filled adventure from start to finish. Lightyear may be looked at as a spiritual sequel to the beloved Toy Story films. But the film still does a great job at establishing its universe while also setting the Buzz we see in the film apart from his plastic counterpart. Most of that credit goes to the performance of Chris Evans. A self-proclaimed Disney fan, I can tell Evans really put his all into this performance while also adding depth to this version of Buzz. While the Buzz in Toy Story dealt with some emotional and phycological hurdles as he came to grips with being a toy and not the heroic space ranger, the Buzz in this movie deals with some very complex hurdles himself. The arc he goes on in letting go of his hubris, releasing himself from burdens he has put on himself, and learning to be patient and put his faith and trust in others is a fulfilling arc that plays out well on screen. It really allows Evans to make this interpretation of Buzz his own while also having plenty of callbacks that remind audiences of his roots. Uzo Adoba is a strong standout playing Alisha Hawthorne. She is a grounding presence for Buzz whenever he begins to take the mission or life too seriously. Despite their limited screen time together, I really felt the love, camaraderie, and friendship between the two of them resulting in some emotionally heartfelt scenes.

And you thought he was scary in toy form.

 Keke Palmer is additionally solid as Izzy in how she navigates the obstacles of her own arc. Her journey of overcoming her fears and anxiety is fun to watch as she further develops through the story. Taika Waititi and Dale Soules are a fun comedic duo that offers laughs throughout but not as much as Peter Sohn as Sox. A bonified scene-stealer, Sox delivers some great comedic moments that make him a real standout amongst the cast. For all the action, humor, and heart this movie possesses, it does have the unfortunate burden of being compared to the Toy Story series. While this isn't technically another Toy Story movie, I will say there are plenty of nods to the films in this movie. Whether they are lines said by Buzz himself or visual references, the movie doesn't forget the foundation that shaped the character. That said, there is plenty of things here to help this universe stand out on its own making room for story expansion if pursued. All in all, Lightyear is a fun and action-packed family adventure that is a great blend of animation, action, adventure, and sci-fi. The film is a good time and sometimes that is all that is required. 

Rating and Final Thoughts

A highly enjoyable sci-fi animation romp from start to finish. References and callbacks aplenty but with
enough differentiating elements to make this universe and characters stand on their own.

Ya did good Ranger. Ya did good.

2022 Summer Movie Season - Jurassic World Dominion: Review & Analysis

 Dawn and Dusk!!!! Concluding Chapter of Jurassic Era is an Unserious and Fun Summer Romp !!!!!

Review By Brandon Porter

The new age has dawned.

Story Description

The signs were always there, the danger was always present yet we persisted in manipulating mother nature to our will. Now, a new age has dawned. Years after the destruction of Isla Nublar and the release of the dinosaurs into the modern world, humanity is adjusting to the planet being once again inhabited by its original occupants. Among those adjusting to these new times is Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) and Claire Dering (Bryce Dallas Howard). Alongside their adopted daughter Maisie (Isabella Sermon), Owen and Claire receive an unexpected visit from Owen's old raptor companion Blue along with her young baby. While the reunion is sweet and welcome, Owen is called into action once more when Blue's offspring is captured and taken. Determined to get her back, Owen, Maisie, and Claire embark on a perilous journey alongside old and new allies including legendary paleontologists Ellie Staller (Laura Dern), dino and fossil expert Alan Grant (Sam Neill), and mathematician Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum). Together, they must rely on each other and the will to survive as they face the threats and dangers of a world that is no longer their own.

Owen, Claire and Maisie with Beta

Film Review

The Jurassic Park franchise has long been one of cinema's most iconic and influential series. With multiple films spanning almost 3 decades, the movies have thrilled, terrified, and enthralled multiple generations of audiences. The latest entry sees the series go into unknown territory as it explores the concept of dinosaurs and mankind coexisting within modern society. It's a bold step for the series and one that takes the franchise into uncharted waters. With returning characters from the previous Jurassic World films in addition to fan favorites from the beloved classic from 1993, Jurassic World Dominion looks to conclude the current era of the series with a showstopping conclusion that puts a cap on nearly 30 years of dino storytelling. After going on this latest Jurassic adventure, Dominion is a fun summer romp that is enjoyable with the right mindset going in. This franchise has experienced great wealth and success in its nearly 3-decade history. That said, since the release of the 1993 classic, the franchise has transitioned into a more blockbuster romp approach. That idea was fully brought into fruition when Jurassic World was released in 2015. Seen more as summer action thrillers, the series seemed more interested in spectacle than introducing complex concepts about the dangers of genetic tampering. Dominion had the opportunity to really flesh out the consequences of this through the backdrop of dinosaurs freely roaming within society. Does it explore it to its full potential? No. But that isn't too much of a deterrent to what is still a fun ride. For one, the movie works thanks to its loaded ensemble of new and returning talent. Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Isabella Sermon are welcome returns and are solid in their roles. But the real drawing point is Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum returning as Alan, Ellie, and Ian. It is such a treat to see them back in these iconic roles and their interactions with the Jurassic World characters are fun to watch. The new characters also bring some fresh life to the film too. DeWanda Wise is a standout as rogue pilot Kayla Watts. Her swagger and dry humor made her an instant hit with me and was a welcome addition to the roster of non-dino. Others including Omar Sy and Henry Wu were fun to see back as well with the latter getting a nice redemptive arc by the film's end. The cast really helped make this movie engaging when there weren't any dinosaurs on screen. 

Some seriously dangerous road hazards

Of course, the dinos are the REAL stars, but the human characters drive the narrative forward and thankfully they aren't dragging the story down. The film does make sure however to put the dinosaurs front and center at every chance resulting in some intense and frenetic action sequences. The sequence in Italy was a particularly strong highlight with fast-paced action and tension while only scratching the surface of the world that has changed around them. This brings me to a valid critique. Introducing the concept of dinosaurs and humans living together was a bold move to make at the conclusion of Fallen Kingdom. But while some angles are explored, it isn't to the degree that makes the story more interesting than it is. The movie is still fun to see but really diving into the meat of this newly formed world could have worked to the film's benefit just a bit. Despite that, it still offers goofy fun and thrills and there isn't much more I can ask than that. All in all,  Jurassic World Dominion is a solid summer action romp with plenty of nostalgia and dinosaurs to keep people entertained throughout. It isn't as complex or as thought-provoking as its superior predecessors but when you are there to see dinos do some dino damage, can you really be mad when you get it? 

Rating and Final Thoughts

A solid concluding chapter to the Jurassic era of this nearly 30-year franchise. Full of nostalgia, thrills,
and spectacle despite not quite being as complex or deep as the ones that came before.

Here is to a hopeful road of new discoveries in 
this world reborn.

Re-Porter Blog 2022 Summer Movie Season - Month 2 Preview (June 2022)

 

Heroic Helpings!!! Space Rangers, Kings, and Legends Occupy June Film Lineup

By Brandon Porter

Hello Followers!!! As in previous years, June is really the official start of the summer season. In the case of the SMS, this is where the real heavy hitters start coming in. This year, June offers up a plethora of must-see flicks that will surely light up the screen. From the origin story of an intergalactic hero to the epic conclusion of one of the most influential franchises of all time, there is no shortage of fun to be had in month 2. Let's go over them all in our June preview. 

Jurassic World Dominion
 (Universal Pictures, June 10th)

Dino Domain 

Mankind has always felt he is in control of mother nature. Unfortunately, mother nature's wrath is unrelenting. Despite the warning signs of an impending geological disaster, dinosaurs and man are now officially forced to coexist within society. The result will forever alter the fate of the planet. Serving as the definitive conclusion to the Jurassic era, Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard return alongside the iconic trio of Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum in the epic next chapter in the Jurassic Park Franchise. Witness a world forever changed when Jurassic World Dominion releases in theaters this Friday. 

Latest Trailer

Lightyear (Walt Disney Pictures/Pixar Animation Studios, June 17th)

Infinity Bound

Every legend has a beginning. Every hero is born through trials and tribulations. For star command's Buzz Lightyear, his story begins long before he stepped into Andy's room. An ambitious test pilot, Buzz must confront the dangers of deep space and forge bonds with unlikely crew members to become the hero we all know in love. A spiritual spinoff of the Toy Story franchise, Chris Evans prepares to suit up as the heroic space ranger in the definitive origins story of the galaxy's greatest hero. Witness the adventure of the man who inspired the toy when Lightyear arrives in theaters on June 17th.

Latest Trailer

Elvis (Warner Bros Pictures, June 24th)

The King's Court

A lot has been said of the decades about the kid from Mississipi who captured the hearts and minds of america with his voice and moves. Some call him an icon, some call him a menace. People who know him best just call him Elvis. Visionary director Baz Luhrmann returns to cinemas to deliver the cinematic musical event celebrating the genius and musical prestige of the King of Rock n Roll. Austin Butler and Tom Hanks take center stage in the drama that is sure to make hearts race and sprirts sing. A legend emerges once more when Elvis dances into cinemas on June 24th. 

Latest Trailer

Be on the lookout for these movies and their reviews throughout month 2. Summer is heating up folks. Enjoy every bit of it. See ya on the next one!!!

2022 Summer Movie Season - Month By Month Recaps

 

SMS Month 1 Recap (May 2022)

Happy Hump day followers. We are officially in June which brings the first month of the 2022 SMS to a close. So much has happened in the past month and we are just getting started. Before we transition into month 2, let's break down everything we got in month 1 with our first monthly recap.

Doctor Strange in The Multiverse of Madness

The latest entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe brought a lot of thing to the table. A compellingly complex villain, a new fan favorite hero, and a ton of action, horror, heart, terror and one EYE Popping Ending!!! The master of the mystic arts set the SMS on fire right out of the gate in an explosive summer romp. Who knows what is in store for Doctor Strange and the multiverse moving forward.

Chip 'n' Dale: Rescue Rangers

The biggest duo of the Disney Afternoon era returned to the mainstream in a big way. Filled with high jinks, heart, and an insane amount of cameos, Chip n Dale showed that they still got what it takes to be a top tier team in this new age of entertainment. Happy to have the boys back. 

Top Gun Maverick

I'm not sure we are gonna have another movie this summer that exemplifies summer like Top Gun Maverick. A full on thrill ride from start to finish that has audiences once again feeling the need for speed. The film took a while to arrive. But no one can deny that the return trip to the danger zone was definitely worth the wait. 

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

Best Box Office Numbers (As of June 8th, 2022)

1. Doctor Strange in The Multiverse of Madness: $911.3 million

2. Top Gun Maverick: $570 Million

Best Critical Success (via. Rotten Tomatoes)

1. Top Gun Maverick (96% Certified Fresh)

2. Chip 'n' Dale: Rescue Rangers (82% Certified Fresh)

3. Doctor Strange in The Multiverse of Madness (74%)

What was the movie you loved the most in May? Check back tomorrow as we look forward to the movies hitting theaters and streaming in June. See ya soon followers.