Movies in Review: "Steve Jobs"

There must be some overwhelming fascination with Steve Jobs with this man sparking 2 biographical films within 3yrs of each. I would usually ask if this was necessary, but in this case it definitely was, since the first film was just mediocre for such a brilliant and complex man. Although I thought Ashton Kutcher definitely had an impressive resemblance to Jobs, it was Fassbender who captured his intricacies to perfection. I had no interest in seeing a repeat of Steve Jobs story, however I was very interested in seeing Fassbender.

Michael Fassbender is the man. Although he looks nothing like Jobs, it still felt like I was watching Steve Jobs. I didn't know the man personally, but Fassbender's performance exuded everything I had heard or read about him. He was a brilliant and intricate businessman, and we have a chance to feel all this in a story that is centered around 3 different product launches in his career. Within the launches we get to see the development of his relationship with his daughter, which was nice subplot that made Jobs seem human. Kate Winslet also gives a phenomenal performance as Jobs confidante. Their chemistry was great. It was like watching 2 great friends, with Winslet rounding out Fassbender. There was so much information packed into this film. Not one word spoken or a scene empty or a waste.

If you are fascinated with Steve Jobs, this is one biographical film that I think you will enjoy. It felt like this movie to the most important parts of his life and put it beautifully in a 2 hr theatrical feature...A

Movies in Review: "Bridge of Spies"

I'll admit, this trailer wasn't the most interesting cold war thriller trailers I've seen. Actually I thought the trailer was kind of dull. The only thing that did pique my interest in this film was Tom Hanks, who I have an undercover crush on. I love me some Hanks, and always enjoy any movie he headlines. Unfortunately, I think many people felt the same way I did about the trailer because this movie ranked #3 for this weekend's ticket sales, even falling behind The Martian, Which has been out for 3 weeks now...smh. Although the trailer didn't appease me, I was confident I was in for more than the trailer was letting on.

Thank goodness I went bet on Tome Hanks because I got a movie I thoroughly enjoyed. However I don't think many of you will find the appreciation I found for it. The movie isn't fast paced at all, kind of moves at a nice steady medium pace. For those of you who like big theatrics, and over the top action, you also won't find that here. The thrills in this movie are presented in the most subtle way. Just enough to keep you interested throughout its 2 hour running time. The best part about this movie was the script and the performances. Tom Hanks was superb as lawyer James B. Donovan. It is hard not to be captivated by this man's performances. I also enjoyed the character Rudolf Abel who had one of the most profound line's in the movie "Would it help?" The movie has a way of appearing to lose focus, due to a few subplots that all work cohesive for the story.

This one has everything that matters going for it. I smiled when I left the theater having spent my money on a theatrical work of art. I love it when movies get back to what matters, story, writing, directing, performances, all on point. If you appreciate a GOOD movie without all the bells and whistles, then this is one I think you will enjoy...A!

Movies in Review: "Pan"

My kid has me watching Jake and the Neverland Pirates allllllllll the time. So I got a little excited when I watched the trailer and Captain Hook was one of the characters being featured in this film. Like seriously...I got super excited...lol. I also have a thing for Rooney Mara, who looked super awesome in the trailer. I knew I had to make this one a mother and son date. I was just hoping my 2yr old would find it as entertaining as his mother hoped it would be.

Unfortunately for this movie it didn't do well at all in the box office...smh. Critics totally crapped on this movie. I read some of the complaints, but cannot find myself in agreement. I enjoyed this movie. The movie starred as very cute young actor, who was fun to watch. The story had nice upbeat pace that held my little one's attention throughout. I loved the punkish feel to the film, and although this was catching most of the flack, I didn't find the use of CGI to take away from the film. I enjoyed the scenes in the village the most, because of the wonderful use of color.

I laughed, my kid cried...lol, but fun was had by all. I found this movie to be super cute and a fun for a family outing. I got everything I expected from it and more. If it helps in your decision, my kid walked out of the theater saying he wanted to see it again...lol...B+

Movies in Review: "99 Homes"

The movie trailer for this kinda hit close to home. I know too many people who lost their homes to foreclosure. I'm a fan of Andrew Garfield, and Michael Shannon is such a riveting actor, I had this one on my personal must-see list. The trailer tore at my heart-strings, and had my attention. I expected the movie to do the same.

Ugh...this one was just too damn hard to watch. I was on the verge of tears, and anger throughout most of the movie. You know how something is portrayed on film there is always some truth to it in life. I'm not sure this was the film's aim, but I left the theater hating bankers, brokers, and the judicial system...smh. Let me just say, you will too. Besides my own personal feelings, the movie was great. It has a strong plot and great performances by both of their leads. I'm sorry, but am I the only one who thinks Michael Shannon is the creepiest, heartless man on-screen. He seriously scares me...lol. 

This one is a winner, but be prepared to have your emotions in an uproar. I'm still pissed. Although just a story, I'm having a hard time separating it from the truth of how things are happening in the housing industry. The 80yr old man though...smh...Ugh. Don't you love it when a movie has your mind twisted...I do...A!

Movies in Review: "The Martian"

The cast alone is enough to peak anyone's interest in this movie. This movie is cast with some dynamic talent, and after watching the trailer, my anticipation only grew. After a few months of lack-luster movie releases, we are finally on the upswing again. Good movies make like better (who agrees?)...lol. Ridley Scott held it down in the director's chair, and although his latest releases haven't been much to brag about, I knew he had a winner on his hands with this one.

You know how you expect a movie to be good, but walk out of the theater with the movie with it still being better than those high expectations. Yes this is one of those movies. My only complaint is that the movie really jumped right into action, and there really wasn't much build-up or introduction, but my dislike is minor. Everything else about this movie I loved. Matt Damon shines in this role. I loved when Damon gets comfortable in a role. It felt like I was watching the real person, instead of an actor playing a character. The humor in this movie is solid and adds a light edge to a tense situation. The writing, directing, and performances were all on point. Matt Damon was the focal point, but every character made an impact in the movie. For those wondering if it's like Gravity, it's not. There is way more to see in this film. I enjoyed the way Matt Damon had to find a way to survive until rescued. Watching his skills and training being pushed to the limit had me in awe. This movie had me in awe of the NASA program, even though I know this film is science-fiction, there is still some truth in everything. I am amazed by intellect that is featured in this film.

This is definitely one of my favorite movies this year. Someone told me they wished this movie had more action. Whaaaaa??? It's Space, what type of action sequences are you expecting? This movie is more than visually entertaining. The movie is a bit long, but I can't recall one dull moment. I don't say this much, but this is a Must see...A!