Cruella REVIEW - Another Villain Redemption Story?

Disney is really testing the public with experimenting on villain origins stories which could make us forget their evil roles in past films and love them because of their backstory. We already have Maleficent and got two movie from it, which probably converted many and erased her wicked role in the Sleeping Beauty animated film. Now we got another villain now getting her history with Cruella.

Indeed Cruella De Vil made a mark to be the most fashionable antagonist in the Disney universe, and we did not know her origins because we already had too much Dalmatians to focus on. But will this be another successful strategy to empathize with them?

I did like their casting for the film especially the two Emmas, Emma Stone and Emma Thompson. Both outstanding actresses with many acclaimed movies, playing Cruella and the Baroness, It felt like one of the best confrontational conversations in recent movie history. The tension is there and sometimes you want to root for both of them depending on your mood. Plus the highlight of the fashion battles/invasion is what we would like to experience in cinemas (if ever they would be open).

Brother of the Year (น้อง.พี่.ที่รัก) - How Siblings Love/Hate Each Other

From the studio that gave us the exhilarating movie Bad Genius, Gross National Happiness has made history again with another blockbuster film with Brother of The Year (น้อง.พี่.ที่รัก). Starring Sunny Suwanmatthanon (Chut), Urriana Seidund (Jane), and Nichkhun Nahvejkul (Moji), brings siblings in a war and a boyfriend. 

As siblings, have polar personalities, wherein Jane is a overachiever in may aspects, while Chut lives a very bachelor life infuriating his sister. But when Jane met Moji, they eventually clicked and became a couple. This new found love of Jane gets to the nerves of his brother. But things gets worse when they finally revealed their engagement and plans to move to Japan.

True to brother/sister fights, they showcase the frustrating ordeals with tantrums, sabotage, and fights in the most adult way. With traditions mixed with the new era, it shows a diverse field to play on. There is also multicultural insights just like as Moji is half-Japanese, and the firm the siblings work is a Japanese firm.

Unfriended: Dark Web - The Internet's Deepest Secret

The internet is really a dark place to linger. As many of us have become dependent with technology, it has evolved into a scary place beyond the usual facade of cat videos and funny memes. This has been a marketplace of sin, deceit, and lies. With a scary story made from this concept was made in 2015, it is indeed time to have a sequel named Unfriended: The Dark Web.

From the name itself, it is already showing the uncharted place online where morbid things are stored and shared, unimaginable transactions and activities were done. This film has no connection with the previous one but follows the same format of everything happens in one screen.

It begins with a laptop Mattias (Woodell) "bought" from craigslist. With interactions with his friends and his special someone, he found himself dragged into a complicated situation where the owner of the laptop wants it back and it will eventually also get the others involved. Incredibly, it is updated with the new trends and the use of many apps and websites commonly used by most of us, which makes it scary. 

Skyscraper - Brings Thrills To Super Elevated Heights

We usually feel afraid of heights because of the feeling of falling. If just a few meters is scary, what if you are in the tallest building in the world with 220 floors high, now that is a Skyscraper. Starring Dwayne Johnson, this may be another lead role for him this year, but this one is probably my favorite. 

Skyscraper brings the thrill of heights into a cinematic experience. With modern fascination of building taller buildings, we look for more things that makes its unique. I just love how intricate they had with details, which is very important. With designing a fictional building is already amazing, which would also inspire future real projects. 

The story revolves on Will Ford (Johnson) who works on the facility assessment of the Pearl, the tallest building in the world with over 220 floors. But a covert group planned to target the owner of the building Zhao Min Zhi (Chin Han). The group blows up floors and invokes fire that endangered Ford's family and also pressures Zhao who lives at the penthouse of the building.

Incredibles 2 - Worth The Wait After 14 Years?

I would remember that the first movie came out while I am still in high school. Pixar was already making waves every year with their animations and it was thought to be a cliche to have a superhero animated film. But as it proved to be a worthy movie not just for kids but also for everyone in the family.

Now after 14 years, a sequel has finally been answered by Disney and Pixar. This highly anticipated second part Incredibles 2 will take off where the last film ended, fighting the underminer. But of course with that long gap, there are huge improvements in terms of graphics, design, and technology which brings more intense action to its characters.

Now that they are back in the city, the only problem is that they are not considered as heroes, rather supers are considered illegal. Thus the family are forced to not to use their powers or else face the consequences. However with the help of Deavor Corporation, Elastigirl/ Helen Parr becomes their model hero to get support and lead the cause for legalization of supers. However, Mr. Incredible/Bob Parr struggles to be a home dad to his children. Amidst all these, a new villain rises with the name of Screenslaver. 

Ocean's 8 - More Than Just Girl Power

It's now turn for the ladies  to take a shot in a heist. And this time, they only need 8 people. Ocean's 8 relives the family thieving business with diverse recruits with specific of set of skills.

Debbie Ocean (Bullock) is Danny Ocean's sister who has also planned her own large scale heist with the initial help of Lou (Blanchett) to recruit all the people they need to pull off a steal of jewelries from the MET Gala. They came across Amita (Kailing), Rose Weil (Bonham-Carter), Tammy (Paulson), Nine Ball (Rihanna), and Constance (Awkwafina) to put up a small yet effective team.

Their target is the Toussaint which is worth $150 Million which will be worn on the neck of high-profile celebrity Daphne Kluger (Hathaway). Though it may look simple, but the venue and security are of top class which makes thing complicated.

Just like the Ocean's Trilogy fashion, the film boast of sophisticated planning and execution along with the colorful characters gives it charm. However, since it is a spin off to the Ocean's series, things are quite predictable.  It did not have a something new that it can be remembered, despite the lovely and talented cast.

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom - What To Do With The Dinosaurs?

It has been 3 years since dinosaurs were given light again with Jurassic World and it was a huge success. Thus the pressure of reopening this franchise would lead to more films in the future. This year, we are now given a follow up with Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.

However for this sequel, some of the cast have been changed leaving only the main ones like Owen (Chris Pratt) and laire (Bryce Dallas Howard) as the leads of this film. Though there are new cool characters added, they shine only because they filled up the gap of the characters  who left. 

Though it might spell the end of Isla Nublar where Jurassic World is, the dilemma now is either to keep the dinosaurs or not. Which gives way to people in the middle who wants to use them. So it becomes a film of Dino lovers, Dino poachers, and  Dino haters. Of course Owen and Claire are on the dinos side.

Sid & Aya: Not a Love Story - Or Is It?

Who would have imagined that Dingdong Dantes and Anne Curtis will be paired again for a movie?  Sid & Aya: Not a Love Story brings them together in this film which they said is not a love story, or is it?

Sid (Dantes) and Aya (Curtis) come from different worlds but both are driven by their passion. Sid is a stock broker, while Aya has a lot of jobs to fund her dream of living abroad. The two met and made a professional agreement of for companionship to cope with Sid's insomia. From there, being more connected to each other leads to the complication of their terms. 

Is Sid and Aya, really not a love story? I feel its complicated, and you have to see it to judge it. Because it some perspective, it does, but in some aspect it doesn't. Kinda confusing, yet I think it will also depend on personal perspective. The story was nicely told with less pretentious story lines which can disconnect it from the viewers. It did not dwell on the social status of the two which has been the forever cliche of these types of movies.

REEL DEAL: The Danish Girl REVIEW

Who would have known that in less than a century ago, there was already a rise of the awareness of the the concerns of people who identify themselves as "trapped in another body" or what modern times known as transgenders, and the real life story of Lili Elbe/ Einar Wegener. Brought to life by a film under the direction of Tom Hooper, The Danish Girl, starring Oscar-winner Eddie Redmayne and Alicia Vikander.

With 4 Academy Award nominations including Best Actor for Redmayne has been the talk since last year with the revelation of the film. Given the complex character, many have expressed commendation to his performance which might lead him to a back-to--back Oscar win this year. And indeed, his performance was noteworthy with the scenes and emotions shown throughout the film. Vikander who plays Gerda, Einar's wife shown spectacular portrayal that works well for the both of them and brings out the deep human connection. 

With the turn of events for Einer to Lili in the quest for being a true woman has a degree of sacrifices, judgement, and secrecy which was treated very differently compared to today's society and medical advances.

REEL DEAL: Our Brand Is Crisis REVIEW

Elections are coming up, and this would be the most timely movie for the upcoming election season with OUR BRAND IS CRISIS starring Sandra Bullock and Billy Bob Thornton. A political story based on a documentary of the 2002 Bolivian Presidential Elections where the characters are a fictional version of real candidates.

Set in 2002, Bolivian politician Pedro Castillo (a fictionalized version of Gonzalo Sánchez de Lozada) hires an American political consulting firm (based on James Carville's Greenberg Carville Shrum firm) to help him win the 2002 Bolivian presidential election. The firm brings in Jane Bodine (Sandra Bullock) to manage the campaign in Bolivia. Battling her arch nemesis, the opposition's political consultant, fellow American Pat Candy (Billy Bob Thornton).

The film bridges the situation of both American and Bolivian campaign strategy which involves extraordinary activities which will push their candidates up the polls. It also mirrors the Philippine political situation which are also seen today as the country will also have the national elections. Politicians and campaign staff of the candidates would learn a thing or two from this movie, well hopefully positive. 

REEL DEAL: Nilalang REVIEW

One of the most anticipated movie for the Metro Manila Film Festival was Nilalang, which features Maria Ozawa as one of the lead roles. Initially the leading man was for Robin Padilla, who backed out of the project to attend to family concerns. However, the movie did push through with Cesar Montano replacing his place for the movie.

This film, from its earlier trailer, shows that there will be a lot of action and horror with a new "entity" that is not from the conventional mythologies. The inclusion of Ozawa for the film gives a very authentic Japanese approach. And being an action-horror film the film the movie invested in a lot of effects to bring out the gore and blood for this and some bondage.

There is also some sexiness that was included for the film, and it does not need to be nasty. They got more sexy ladies playing various roles like Meg Imperial, Yam Concepcion, and a special participation of Aubrey Miles. Though the film is rated R-16, it is more because of the blood and gore. 

REEL DEAL: A Million Ways To Die In The West REVIEW

From the success of TED, Seth McFarlane sets out into another movie that sets into a frenzy of comedy which is offensive yet entertaining. He now goes into the inspiration of western movies with "A Million Ways To Die In The West".

For this movie, it goes beyond Ted with the roster of casting like Liam Neeson, Charlize Theron, Amanda Seyfried and Neil Patrick Harris as the main characters. This is also a rare time, Theron goes into comedy knowing that she is more of sci-fi and action than making people laugh. Same goes with Liam Neeson which brings that seriousness into the plot.

Seth produces, directs and writes the story as he also injects his own brand of comedy like he did with Ted, Family Guy, and American Dad. This is also one of the movies Seth stars personally which he rarely happens as he is busy doing voice overs.

REEL DEAL: The Hunger Games Catching Fire REVIEW

Having read the whole book trilogy made me a conscious critic for the movie, and when the first movie came out, I was impressed that they have condensed the story into a two hour movie which still excites me and amazes me on its execution. Now playing in theaters is the second installment of the Hunger Games: Catching Fire. Now I am expecting more from the series.

Katniss Everdeen (Jenifer Lawrence) and Peeta Mellark (Josh Huctcherson) as victors of the 74th Hunger Games will noe embark on thei victory tour as a couple until they come into the rising revolution that is happening to the districts. The twist of the Quarter Quell, will bring them back ot the arena with the past victors and all those involved in the games.

What I loved about this sequel is its progressive storyline which stayed true to the nature of the book, and kept ample time for moments that are worth highlighting. I love the visual effects which was very carefully detailed especially with the technological and structural advancement in the world of Panem.

REEL DEAL: A Good Day To Die Hard REVIEW

Bruce Wilis is back and still not dying even after 25 years of the iconic Die Hard series which have four movies and now back this new action-packed movie now featuring his son Jack (Jai Courtney) in A Good Day To Die Hard.

This would be the 5th movie in the series where John McClane (Bruce Willis) return to hard core action even after 25 year and finds himself in the foreign city of Moscow. Being a first timer and tourist in Russia. And as much he would like to stay out of trouble, it still finds him and his son as they both stop a possible nuclear warfare.

Expect a lot of explosions, gune fire, and more explosions for this movie as it would still keep up to the promise of providing high octane action with firearms and and with physical fights. Now McClane will have to survive  an unknown terrain and without his friend by his side by his son who works a secret agent.

But even with his situation, indeed we would expect John to do the unexpected, move mountains and even dive into the unknown just to bring people to justice.

REEL DEAL: Les Misérables REVIEW

The long wait (here in the Philippines) is over with the new year bringing the Christmas movies into the screens and one of the most anticipated is the Oscar nominated and Golden Globe best film winner in the Comedy/Musical category, Les Misérables.

It would actually be my first time to see the critically acclaimed musical made by Claude-Michel Schönberg, original French lyrics by Alain Boublil based on the novel by Victor Hugo. Took place in the era of the French Revolution talks about the struggles and tribulations of characters Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman), Fantine (Anne Hathaway), Cosette (Amanda Syfried), and Javert (Russel Crowe). Many of them have backgrounds in theater and musicals which is suprizing to some fans as they sang and performed well. 

The story was indeed a tearjerker with the intensity of the scenes made more dramatic with the musical delivery. since the movie is adapted from the musical, it did complete the experience with a unique set of cast, great set deign and soothing music quality that brought to life the well loved musical. 

Great performances and our top picks for best performance would be for Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway and Samantha Barks. For new and avid Les Miserables fans, the movie indeed gave a intensive view of the lives of the characters something like a close up view which makes each scene more touching to the audience. 

REEL DEAL: The Twilight Saga - Breaking Dawn Part 2 REVIEW

The epic conclusion to the books by Stephanie Mayer about vampires and werewolves is finally here with the Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2. And just like movie series finale, there are high expectations with its conclusion.

The saga was followed by a lot of women for its romantic factor (and Taylor Lautner abs) . And some men liked it for its fight scenes and gore. Lately the main stars Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart also gone trough controversial break up with infidelity issues which made it awkward at some point as they attend press conferences and the premiere night. 

But amidst all the controversies the movie is one of the most awaited with the fate of Bella and Edward, and we can also include Jacob and Renesmee (Edward and Bella’s child). 

The movie will also include vampires from all over the world with special abilities. Of course my favorites would be Alice Cullen and Jane (Dakota Fanning, one of the Volturi Vampires). It will also be the first movie that Bella will finally fight by her own as a newborn vampire.

REEL DEAL: Chernobyl Diaries REVIEW

Even after 25 years after the ill-fated Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant Fallout, there are still a lot of things that haunt the imagination of the many people. The Ukrainian Government allowed people to visit the town near Chernobyl a few years ago as radiation levels have gone down. This gave way to come up with a great thriller story about the deserted area.

"Chernobyl Diaries" is an original story from Oren Peli, who first terrified audiences with his groundbreaking thriller, "Paranormal Activity." The film follows a group of six young tourists who, looking to go off the beaten path, hire an "extreme tour" guide. Ignoring warnings, he takes them into the city of Pripyat, the former home to the workers of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor, but a deserted town since the disaster more than 25 years ago. After a brief exploration of the abandoned city, however, the group soon finds themselves stranded, only to discover that they are not alone...

REEL DEAL: A Secret Affair REVIEW

It might be the year for kabit movies as many of local movies shown were about this theme. But lets look on this new movie, A SECRET AFFAIR released by Viva Films starring Anne Curtis, Derek Ramsay, and Andi Eigenman.

Thought may be compared with other "Unfaithful" movies, its goes beyond expectations with showcasing a different approach with great cinematography, production design, and even very firery encounters.

It won't bore you with the plot as the main characters' lives are interesting with secrets and revelations. It's also Andi Eigenman's comeback movie after giving birth (but her body left no trace of pregnancy). 

A Secret Affair is produced and distributed by Viva Films. Now Showing in theaters.

REEL DEAL: V/H/S REVIEW

A group of criminals scour a secluded country home for a mysterious videotape, and bear witness to scenes of unimaginable terror in this found-footage-style anthology horror film featuring segments from Glenn McQuaid (I Sell the Dead), Ti West (House of the Devil), Joe Swanberg (Silver Bullets), David Bruckner (The Signal), Adam Wingard (You're Next, and Radio Silence).

It seemed like a simple job; all they needed to do was enter the home, find the videotape, and deliver it to their boss. But from the moment they arrived, a sinister tension descended. Gaining access to the house, the young thugs discover a rotting corpse amidst a collection of vintage television sets, and stockpiles of VHS tapes.

Somewhere amidst the stacks is the tape they seek, but with each new video they watch, the dread continues to build. The sights that they witness are too horrible for words, but the greatest shock is yet to come.

REEL DEAL: Bwakaw REVIEW

Cinemalaya films are penetrating into the mainstream cinema because of the reception it got from its viewers. The first one was "Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank", and now comes "Bwakaw" starring Eddie Garcia. The Film is one of the Directors Showcase 2012 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival and Competition 

Bwakaw is a drama-comedy about growing old, and everyone's fear of growing old alone. Rene is a gay man who came out of the closet at age 70. Ailing in his twilight years, he thinks it is now too late for love, even companionship, and that all there is to look forward to is Death. He has made a will, bequeathing his few possessions to his even fewer friends. Everything is packed and labeled, ready for distribution. He has even paid for a coffin, taking advantage of a funeral home's Summer Sale. Nowadays the only companion Rene has is Bwakaw, a stray dog that hangs around his house and follows him wherever he goes. As Rene waits for the day of his death, he gets the surprise of his life when it is Bwakaw who suddenly falls ill and is diagnosed with cancer.