Movies in Review: "Game Night"

I love a dark comedy, and no one delivers them better than Jason Bateman, who seriously knocks this movie genre out of the park. I thought the trailer for this film was decent enough, but it was definitely Bateman who hyped my anticipation for this film. It was a bonus that Rachel McAdams is cast, as she also shines in roles like this. As most movie goers, I am still coming off of my Marvel high of Black Panther. However a comedic break from the fabulosity we all know as Wakanda was still in order. I expected to laugh, and enjoy this film. So there was little worry for me when purchasing this ticket.

I thought this movie would be good, but it still found a way to exceed my tepid expectations. The best part about this movie was the entire cast, whose chemistry set this movie on another level, especially McAdams and Bateman. Their scenes were hysterical. I laughed throughout the film, but I also found myself laughing so hard I was in tears...lol. The writing and story were fun, with interesting twists. The cast kept the movie going at a nice pace as everyone owned their scenes and were great characters for the film.

If you are able to move on from Wakanda, I seriously recommend this comedy as your next stop. I don't think you will find yourself disappointed...B+

Movies in Review: "Black Panther"

Black Panther has finally hit the theaters after what seems like a year of heavy marketing and building anticipations. I was definitely looking forward to seeing this movie and the marketing definitely helped. If I can be honest, I don't have too much background on comic book heroes. When Black Panther made his first appearance in The Avengers film I was probably the only one who could have cared less. I mean I love Chadwick Boseman, but I didn't see all the hype surrounding a man in a cat suit with tiny little claws...lol...ijs. I found his debut in The Avengers film to be very cute though. However this standalone film seemed to deliver a Black Panther that was anything but cute, instead stronger and more powerful. I was with it. I thought the initial trailer was a little weak, but the trailers definitely got better and better, so much so I seriously thought it would be completely impossible for this film to live up to ALL this hype. I was expecting it to be good, but I didn't let my expectations to get out of control.

Ummmmmmmm...talk about delivering! This movie is all that and a bag of chips. It's everything you see in the trailer and more. It is every good thing any person has to say about it. It is a dope ass movie (pardon my French). Here are a few reasons why. Marvel usually produces entertaining movies, but let’s admit, they can at times get corny, but we still love them. However Black Panther stayed on point with its story and still packed the fun and entertaining laughs we expect from Marvel. Can we talk about the movie soundtrack that played as the hype man for every scene? The music amped the scenes to another level. For example when Okoye was fighting in the Korean Bar scene in that red dress. Did you notice how the beat slightly changed and set that action sequence on another level? There were so many scenes just like that. The artistry of the music and action melded perfectly. I have to give it up to Rachel Morrison for capturing the beauty of everything with the amazing cinematography. She and her team did the damn thing.

Now can we just take some time to revel in the artistry of the hair, make-up and costume designs that was brought to us by Camille Friend (hair), Joe Harlow (make-up), and Ruth Carter (costumes)? Chadwick Boseman's ensemble fit every inch of his body. Can we speak on his attire in every scene...immaculate. I've dropped a few pics below...you're welcome.

Of course we can't forget about the skin markings done on Michael B. Jordan's beautiful body. Not to mention all the other costumes, colors and beautiful make-up our eyes had to feast on...Stunning!

This movie was a true visual and emotional experience. I laughed, I cheered, and I was totally engrossed in this film. I walked out of the theater with chills, and I am still in the land of Wakanda. This is what a movie experience is supposed to be. You don't want to miss this one...A+!

Movies in Review: "Peter Rabbit"

Yeah I know I've been MIA for a few weeks, but don't worry, I haven't abandoned this blog (yet), I've just been busy or very disinterested in the movies that have been released ~shrugs...Sue me...lol. I have been super busy and did and haven't had a chance to catch up on a number of films I did want to see. I was happy a friend passed me these tickets for an early showing for Peter Rabbit, as I knew I would be busy this weekend and it would be a struggle to try and see. However I was more than pleased than me and my little movie date (my 5yr old son) were able to catch this early viewing because this was a movie both of us were excited to see. I love live action animated films, but it was James Corden cast as the voice of Peter Rabbit that actually sealed the deal for me. Not to mention 2 of my other favorite actors, Rose Byrne and Domhnall Gleeson were also cast...wins all around. I and my sidekick enjoyed the trailer and expected great things from the film ~fingers crossed :).

I really really enjoyed this movie. There were a few meh parts, but for the most part, the film was filled with spot on entertainment. There weren't too many dull moments as the characters, especially the rabbits were in some of the funniest predicaments. Corden shined as Peter Rabbit and had me laughing out loud throughout. His sisters were great additions to this funny bunch, with each of them having their own sparkling personalities. Byrne is an amazing comedic actress, so of course she shined in this role. She and Gleeson worked magically on-screen together. Although my kid liked the movie, the humor was a little above his age group, so his interest waned throughout the film.

I would put this in the category of a good family film. There is enjoyment to be had for everyone, as long as the little ones aren't too young. I laughed, I was entertained and for the most part very satisfied with this movie. I guess it also didn't hurt that I watched it for free, but I'd also pay for it...B+