Favorite Superhero Flicks
With the current glut of superhero movies there are a few I haven't seen yet, but these are my favorites of the ones I have seen.
The list does not include non-superhero comic films, like "Jonah Hex" (a comic book Western and another favorite).
The list does not include non-superhero comic films, like "Jonah Hex" (a comic book Western and another favorite).
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- DirectorZack SnyderStarsJackie Earle HaleyPatrick WilsonCarla GuginoIn a version of 1985 where superheroes exist, the murder of a colleague sends active vigilante Rorschach on the trail of a conspiracy that will change the course of history.This superhero-team film is long, dark, mature, dialogue-driven and convoluted, but the strong characters and originality win the day -- no moronic "blockbuster" trash here. Not to mention Silk Spectre II and her mother are extremely easy on the eyes. As far as superhero flicks go, there's really nothing else like "Watchmen;" it's even more atypical than the X-Men. "Watchmen" is like the "Apocalypse Now" of superhero films!
- DirectorMark Steven JohnsonStarsBen AffleckJennifer GarnerColin FarrellA man blinded by toxic waste which also enhanced his remaining senses fights crime as an acrobatic martial arts superhero.DIRECTOR'S CUT ONLY. I saw the theatrical version when it was released in 2003 and it wasn't bad. They got a lot right -- like Daredevil's costume, the mood and the casting (this was my first exposure to Ben Affleck so I had no beef with him playing Matt Murdock/Daredevil). Still, there was something wrong with the picture; it was too light and brisk. It had pizazz, but it was mostly superhero fluff with little depth -- a perfect example of style over substance.
The Director's Cut reveals what went wrong: Some studio dork made the idiotic decision to cut out the meat of the story, which dumbed down the film. In plain language: THE FILM WAS GUTTED.
For the Director's Cut, director Mark Steven Johnson took out some unnecessary fluff, like the premature Matt/Elektra sex scene, and added over 30 minutes of material that was integral to the story and SHOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN CUT in the first place. This new material centers around the character-defining subplot of Matt Murdock and Foggy Nelson working on a case that ties into the whole Kingpin storyline. Many say the fight scenes are also superior in the Director's Cut, which is hard to tell unless you view both versions back-to-back.
Everything about this film magically works. Colin Farrell is entertaining as the crazed Bullseye, Jon Favreau is splendid as Foggy, and Michael Clarke Duncan is outstanding as The Kingpin; yeah, I know they deviated with the skin color, but who gives a hoot anyway? The soundtrack, which includes selections from various heavy bands, is stupendous. The touching scenes are truly touching, like when Matt & Elektra share intimate moments on the roof and Elektra's solo workout, and the kick-axx parts are really kick-axx. Two great songs by Evanescence are featured: "Bring Me To Life" and "My Immortal." There are a lot of great lines in the film as well, in particular from The Kingpin and Bullseye ("Tell me, how do you kill a man without fear?" "By putting the fear IN him"). - DirectorGavin HoodStarsHugh JackmanLiev SchreiberRyan ReynoldsThe early years of James Logan, featuring his rivalry with his brother Victor Creed, his service in the special forces team Weapon X, and his experimentation into the metal-lined mutant Wolverine.Although the movie starts out shaky with the cartoony action sequence after the opening credits (Stryker's force raiding a facility in Nigeria), the film finds its footing and kicks total axx. The story and its characters pulled me in and kept my attention; I was entertained, pure and simple. How so?
For one thing, the movie accomplished precisely what it set out to do – unveil Wolverine's origin. It shows Logan's early family, however brief; it establishes his relationship with his brother, Victor; it shows his participation in all the American wars since the Civil War in an excellent opening credits sequence; it establishes his relationship with Stryker and the US government; it shows his inner conflict between universal morality and being an animalistic killing machine; it establishes his capacity for true love and heroism (Kayla and the old couple, as well as going back to save the mutants at the end); it shows how his bones became reinforced with adamantium; it effectively shows how he lost his memory; and why he's known as Logan/Wolverine.
This isn't some mindless action/CGI flick with little dramatic valleys or depth, as some have criticized. The film starts out with a dramatic sequence from Logan's youth and proceeds with the dramatic montage of various wars during the opening credits. This effectively sets the tone that "Wolverine" is a serious superhero film, like the three X-Men films before it. From there we get touching moments with Kayla, both early in the story and later; as well as dramatic lulls with Victor, Stryker, the old couple, the black guy in New Orleans (I forget his name), Gambit, Cyclops and Professor X.
As far as depth goes, we get Wolvie's intense struggle between flesh and spirit, which we can all relate to one way or another – will he selfishly and greedily use his powers to be a moral-less killing machine at Stryker's beck & call or will he use his powers for the good of humanity? Will he take the high pay from the government or will he be content making $18,500 as a lumberjack? We also get his discovery of love with a moving relationship with Kayla, his later struggle with betrayal, and then understanding and forgiveness for Kayla's plight (her concern for her sister). Not to mention a certain character's powerful admission of genuine love at the end. Furthermore we get Victor's headfirst plunge into lawlessness with zero respect for life other than his own but then – surprisingly – evidence that he still possesses a sense of loyalty to his blood kin. This shows that even one of the main villains isn't one-dimensional. In addition, near the end we see Cyclops as a boy trusting the still small voice he hears somewhere within, which leads to salvation and Xavier, an obvious type of the Holy Spirit or what have you. ” - DirectorSam RaimiStarsTobey MaguireKirsten DunstTopher GraceA strange black entity from another world bonds with Peter Parker and causes inner turmoil as he contends with new villains, temptations, and revenge.This third installment takes the good elements of the first two films, minus the origin tale & stoo-pid subplots (like the second film linking Peter's spider powers to his confidence level, rolling my eyes), and goes into total overdrive. What we end up with is easily one of the most entertaining superhero flicks ever made, not to mention it possesses a wealth of spiritual insights, which is a mark of all great films.
Some complain that there are too many villains -- the second Green Goblin, the Sandman and Venom -- but weren't the various Green Goblins (or Hobgoblin) and the Osborns always hovering close by Peter/Spidey to some degree in the comics? As for the Sandman, there wasn't enough depth to him to qualify as the sole villain in a feature film blockbuster; hence, the addition of the parasitic alien that becomes Spider-Man's costume for a brief time and, later, possessing Eddie Brock and becoming Venom.
What propels it into the realm of greatness is the depth of the characters and the numerous potent insights into the human condition. See my review for details. - DirectorBryan SingerStarsBrandon RouthKevin SpaceyKate BosworthSuperman returns to Earth after spending five years in space examining his homeworld Krypton. But he finds things have changed while he was gone, and he must once again prove himself important to the world.Superman returns to Earth after five years trying to find out what happened to his homeworld. As Clark Kent he gets his job back at the Daily Planet newspaper, but finds out Lois Lane has moved on without him -- having a live-in fiancé (Marsden) and a five-year-old child, not to mention winning a Pulitzer for her article "Why the World Doesn't Need Superman." Meanwhile Lex Luthor and his henchmen discover Superman's Fortress of Solitude and steal some of the alien crystals. Luthor's mad scheme is to create a new continent, killing billions of people in the process.
The story is an obvious retelling of the Christ story:
-- Jor-el gives his son to protect (save) humankind. -- Superman repeatedly states that he's everywhere and will always be around (i.e. omnipresent). -- Luthor and his henchmen's beating of Supes is reminiscent of Christ's beating before his crucifixion. -- Superman sacrifices himself to save humanity from Luthor's new continent. -- When superman "dies" above the atmosphere of Earth he is shown in a cross posture.
Lois Lane is an obvious type of atheism. Although she once believed in and even loved Superman, she's now convinced the world doesn't really need him. She's obviously unhappy and bitter; she lacks the pizazz she had when she once believed.
Of course, all this heavy symbolism is useless if the story itself fails to capture the viewer's attention. This is especially vital when the picture is two and a half hours long. But it succeeds!
The film definitely has an epic vibe to it, even more so than the first in the series. It seems more serious, i.e. less campy, especially where Luthor and his team are concerned. The film also possesses an imperceptible reverent quality. Even though the whole Superman mythos is totally absurd, the film somehow enables the viewer to accept it as real. On top of all this there are numerous humorous parts, which are truly laugh-out-loud funny (watch out for the hilarious "It's a bird," "It's a plane" piece). - DirectorBryan SingerStarsPatrick StewartIan McKellenHugh JackmanThe X-Men send Wolverine to the past in a desperate effort to change history and prevent an event that results in doom for both humans and mutants.This is easily one of the best X-Men films because of the interesting plot and the focus on the most interesting characters. Wolverine has been the top X-Men since day one so you can't go wrong with making him the focal point. James McAvoy and Patrick Stewart are excellent as Professor X, as are Michael Fassbender as young Magneto, Jennifer Lawrence as Mystique and Evan Peters as Quicksilver, the latter in a small but highly entertaining role. Nicholas Hoult as Beast gets an honorable mention and Bingbing Fan is notable as Blink, particularly her stunning face.
The plot is convoluted and yet easy to follow if you're familiar with the franchise's story arc. The film is compelling, but doesn't forget to be entertaining; for instance, the creative and amusing way Quicksilver takes down a bunch of security guards at the Pentegon, one of the movie's top scenes.
I like all the X-Men films, but some more than others. This is probably my favorite, followed by "X2" and "X3" (I consider the two Wolverine films as separate from the X-Men movies). - DirectorAnthony RussoJoe RussoStarsChris EvansRobert Downey Jr.Scarlett JohanssonPolitical involvement in the Avengers' affairs causes a rift between Captain America and Iron Man.I’m a big fan of Steve Englehart’s outstanding run on the comic in the ’70s, which was the precursor to Mark Gruenwald’s notable work 10-20 years later (his run lasted a whole decade!). What I loved about the comic was the relatively realistic tone, the interesting relevant issues and the fact that Cap & Falcon were the perfect representation of the USA. You’ll see these elements in “Captain America: Civil War.” The occasional interludes with Cap’s babe, Sharon Carter, are reminiscent of the comic. Speaking of The Falcon, I like the way the writers took the basic concept of the superhero and made him better; for instance, the way his wings deflect bullets and the nature of his ‘pet falcon’ Redwing.
Since the plot ties into Cap’s leadership in The Avengers we get numerous guest stars, like Iron Man, Black Widow, Scarlet Witch, The Vision, Hawkeye and War Machine. As if that wasn’t enough, we also get Ant-Man, The Black Panther and, believe it or not, freakin’ Spider-Man, with a glorified cameo of a hot Aunt May (Marisa Tomei), lol. How the movie can juggle all these characters and keep it from getting out of hand is uncanny.
Lastly the core question of the titular ‘civil war’ is interesting and timely: Should the government usurp control over The Avenger’s autonomy? Should this incredible team of superhumans become the pawns of the government? Captain America rightly says “No way.” - DirectorTaika WaititiStarsChris HemsworthTom HiddlestonCate BlanchettImprisoned on the planet Sakaar, Thor must race against time to return to Asgard and stop Ragnarök, the destruction of his world, at the hands of the powerful and ruthless villain Hela.I'm a fan of the first two Thor flicks, but this one is the best. It has the most compelling plot, the most interesting guest stars, and adds a little more humor to the proceedings while keeping a nice balance between the amusing parts and the serious ones. Some parts are even moving, like The Executioner's story arc (Karl Urban), whilst some are profound (e.g. Odin's revelation about Asgard). Much of the humor is laugh-out-loud funny.
Blanchett is utterly badaxx (even hot) as the villainess and, believe it or not, this is the best depiction of the Hulk yet on the screen. He has more dialogue here than in his four previous appearances on the big screen combined (i.e. "Hulk," "The Incredible Hulk," "Avengers" and "Avengers: Age of Ultron"). In addition, the guest appearance by Dr. Strange is exceptional.
Like "Captain America: Civil War" (2016), Marvel just knocked it out of the ballpark with this one. - DirectorJames MangoldStarsHugh JackmanPatrick StewartDafne KeenIn a future where mutants are nearly extinct, an elderly and weary Logan leads a quiet life. But when Laura, a mutant child pursued by scientists, comes to him for help, he must get her to safety.This is the third and arguably the best Wolverine movie, although I slightly prefer 2009's underrated "X-Men Origins: Wolverine" (2013's "Wolverine" was okay, but overall meh). "Logan" focuses on aging & death contrasted by new birth and the potential thereof. For a superhero flick, it's gritty realistic with compelling drama & characters and an entertaining road trip, not to mention loads of hard R-rated violence. The movie explores the possibilities of what would happen when high-powered mutants become aged and diseased.
Some of classic Marvel Comic's best moments were when one of their superheroes, e.g. The Thing or The Black Panther, was thrust into an everyday scenario, like talking to regular folks on the street or shopping at the market. There's a lot of this in "Logan." It dares to slow things down and focus on the characters and is the better for it. One of the best extended sequences is the trio's meeting with a hospitable black family after a highway mishap somewhere north of Oklahoma City. This episode is Exhibit A in why "superheroes" can't mix with regular folk for too long, for their own welfare.
"Logan" ranks with the best superhero movies because, like 2009's "Watchmen," it dares to be different. It's anything BUT a conventional superhero flick. Unfortunately, it's overlong at 141 minutes. The movie should've ended shortly after the trio's arrival to their destination, with some kind of potent dramatic close. But the filmmakers insisted on tacking on yet ANOTHER action-packed attack by the antagonists and it therefore ends on a tedious, redundant note. Disregarding this caveat, "Logan" is a great 'superhero' flick.
My favorite mutant, by the way, is the chubby black boy. - DirectorBryan SingerStarsJames McAvoyMichael FassbenderJennifer LawrenceIn the 1980s, the X-Men must defeat an ancient all-powerful mutant, En Sabah Nur, who intends to thrive by bringing destruction to the world.This sixth film in the franchise (not including the four spin off films) easily ranks as one of the best IMHO. Why? Because it includes many of the best elements of the X-Men and everything I would want in a great X-Men flick: Professor X's ongoing goal for an educational sanctuary for interesting mutants from all over the world; his love for Moira; Magneto's increasing mastery of his great powers and his struggle to go on the offensive against prejudiced humanity; a greater focus on Cyclops and his potent power, both of which were neglected in the original trilogy; an outstanding actress to play Jean Grey (Sophie Turner), who is far better than the bland Famke Janssen; Olivia Munn's ultra-hotness as Psylocke; a worthy subplot on Weapon X with the corresponding guest appearance of Wolverine; an excellent collection of young mutants, like Storm, Beast, Quicksilver, Nightcrawler, Havok, Angel, etc.; a worthy main villain in the mold of Dr. Doom and Thanatos; an epic, apocalyptic final act (sorry); I could go on and on.
This isn't to say the movie doesn't have faults, however; the cartoony overblown prologue in ancient Egypt is Exhibit A. Yet the movie swiftly recovers and finds its footing. - DirectorJon FavreauStarsRobert Downey Jr.Mickey RourkeGwyneth PaltrowWith the world now aware of his identity as Iron Man, Tony Stark must contend with both his declining health and a vengeful mad man with ties to his father's legacy.I like this sequel better than the popular original because I generally don't like "origin stories," as far as superhero movies go. More than that, "Iron Man 2" brims with confidence and is just full of kinetic entertainment from beginning to end, highlighted by a rockin' soundtrack and some curvy cuties, most notably Scarlett as The Black Widow (the character's film debut). On top of this, the writers add some meatier elements to the table, like Tony's father/son issues and his sad struggle with alcoholism (which comes straight from the 80's comics, the first superhero to be depicted with this problem).
- DirectorJoss WhedonStarsRobert Downey Jr.Chris EvansMark RuffaloWhen Tony Stark and Bruce Banner try to jump-start a dormant peacekeeping program called Ultron, things go horribly wrong and it's up to Earth's mightiest heroes to stop the villainous Ultron from enacting his terrible plan.I like this one better than 2012's "Avengers" because the 'origin' element is out of the way and the setting isn't one-dimensional. There are numerous locations (England, Seoul, Bangladesh, South Africa and Italy), and additional characters like Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch. Ultron makes a worthy villain and the over-the-top action sequences are balanced out by quality character bits, like the Black Widow/Hulk/Banner relationship. Furthermore, the third act delivers with the requisite earth-threatening crisis.
When I heard Olsen was going to play Scarlet Witch I was disappointed because she definitely didn't have the curves to pull-off a woman like Scarlet Witch, but she obviously gained weight for the role and looks great. She has a striking face and is a convincing actress. Taylor-Johnson is fine as Quicksilver, but I can't help wondering why they didn't use Evan Peters, who played the character in 2014's excellent "X-Men: Days of Future Past."
With the current glut of superhero flicks, "Avengers 2" has a bit of a "been-there-done-that" vibe, but it's well done for what it is. What propels it into nigh-greatness (besides the positives already noted) are a couple of moving parts: The subplot about Thor's hammer and the revelation of another character in the third act that I wasn't expecting, which elicits a "Wow" reaction if you're familiar with the comic and even more so when you observe the tie-in to the aforementioned hammer. - DirectorMark Steven JohnsonStarsNicolas CageEva MendesSam ElliottWhen motorcycle rider Johnny Blaze sells his soul to the Devil to save his father's life, he is transformed into the Ghost Rider, the Devil's own bounty hunter, and is sent to hunt down sinners.Some criticize the film as too serious, others as too goofy, but the fact is that "Ghost Rider" has the same general tone as all the other superhero flicks released since 2000. It's a serious story for the most part, although completely unbelievable due to the subject matter, with some humor thrown in for good measure. In other words, it's neither deathly serious nor a campy goof-fest; it rides the line between these two.
If all you want out of "Ghost Rider" is an entertaining supernatural superhero flick "Ghost Rider" delivers and is worth viewing for this purpose. But thankfully the film delivers on a deeper level as well. Allow me to throw out to you a smattering of the many noteworthy or fascinating aspects of the film:- Note that Johnny is misled into "selling his soul" to the devil and has to face the negative consequences of his decision. Few people will literally "sell their soul" to Satan as shown in the story but we can all relate to the struggle with the evil that exists within our own hearts. When we decide to live according to the inclinations of our lower, destructive, selfish nature are we not, in a sense, "selling our soul" to the devil? (regardless of whether we view the devil as a literal spiritual being or merely as a symbol of potential human evil). Whenever we choose to live according to this lower nature will we not automatically perform evil and, in that sense, fulfill the devil's will? (ditto).
- Peter Fonda as Satan is perfect and entertaining, as is Sam Elliott as the old Westerner.
- Love is a strong theme in the story. Johnny "sells his soul" for love of his father. He didn't do it for greed or some other carnal purpose. This is agape love, self-sacrificial love, love in it's highest and purest form. This puts Johnny on God's side (as Elliott's character observes) and makes him a serious threat to the devil's purposes on earth.
- We also witness Blaze's great love for Roxanne and vice versa, as well as Mack's love for Johnny, etc.
- This is brilliantly contrasted by the total absence of love in Satan's kingdom. The devil hates his son and vice versa. This is a fitting depiction because God is described as love in the Bible; and since Satan has chosen to separate from God and be His enemy, he has naturally separated himself from love and become love's enemy. Hate in all its ugly manifestations is therefore the essence of the devil's kingdom and relationships.
- When Blaze first turns into the Ghost Rider and goes for a ride in his flame cycle he causes great havoc wherever he goes. You'll note that this is much toned down in his later excursions as Ghost Rider. The explanation? Johnny simply didn't know how to control the supernatural hellfire and "spirit of vengeance" during his initial conversion.
Lastly, the film is just a colorful feast for the eyes (and, in light of the soundtrack, ears too). - DirectorJoel SchumacherStarsArnold SchwarzeneggerGeorge ClooneyChris O'DonnellBatman and Robin try to keep their relationship together even as they must stop Mr. Freeze and Poison Ivy from freezing Gotham City.Staunch fundamentalist Batman fans have declared 1997's "Batman & Robin" to be a blasphemous blemish in the superhero's chronicling, but IMHO it's the most entertaining of the four Batman films that came out between 1989-97. Here's why:
- It has the best Batman/Bruce Wayne in George Clooney. Although Val Kilmer has the better Bruce Wayne demeanor (i.e. grimmer), Clooney just LOOKS like Wayne. In addition, he's charismatic and entertaining in the role from beginning to end.
- It has the best sense of family between the inhabitants of Wayne Manor. The love and camaraderie of Bruce, Dick/Robin (Chris O'Donnell), Alfred and Barbara/Batgirl (Alicia Silverstone) is a pleasure to behold.
- It has Alicia Silverstone as Batgirl. Nuff said.
- It has Uma Thurman shining in the role of Poison Ivy. I usually don't find tall, thin women appealing (I'm more attracted to women akin to Silverstone), but I have to admit that Uma completely owns the over-the-top role of Poison Ivy and is truly alluring.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger is great as Mr. Freeze. Yes, every time he merely opens his mouth you know it's Schwarzenegger, but he's amusing and he has a great look and costume.
- The film has heart. Although Poison Ivy is truly ee-vil and gets her comeuppance, you can't help but sympathize with Freeze's love for his wife and desire to resurrect her. Batman is able to see under his icy veneer and see a warm heart that's willing to accept redemption and make restitution. Furthermore, as noted above, you really feel the love of Bruce and Alfred and the others at Wayne Manor.
- Lastly, the film is full of vibrant colors and goofy over-the-top thrills. It's just a fun movie, if you're in the mood for a half-serious/half-campfest superhero flick.
I also like that Smashing Pumpkins song that plays over the end credits. - DirectorRichard DonnerStarsChristopher ReeveMargot KidderGene HackmanAn alien orphan is sent from his dying planet to Earth, where he grows up to become his adoptive home's first and greatest superhero.Released in 1978, this was the first superhero movie to effectively bring a superhero to the big screen.
"Superman" is not just a comic-booky superhero flick, it's a powerful piece of SCI-FI cinema! The outstanding Krypton sequences of the first half hour confirm this. These scenes are highlighted by the magnificent Marlon Brando, one of my favorite actors, playing Superman's father, Jor-El. So, if you're a serious Sci-Fi fan, don't skip "Superman" just because you assume it's some mere superhero movie. No, it's more, much more. In fact, the screenplay was obviously written with absolutely no concern about cost, so MANY are the great F/X sequences.
Gene Hackman brims with charisma as Lex Luthor and Valerie Perrine shines as Miss Teschmacher (check her out in the green one-piece bathing suit during the pool scene). - DirectorRichard LesterStarsGene HackmanChristopher ReeveMargot KidderSuperman agrees to sacrifice his powers to start a relationship with Lois Lane, unaware that three Kryptonian criminals he inadvertently released are conquering Earth.A continuation of the first film and just as good.
- DirectorKenneth BranaghStarsChris HemsworthAnthony HopkinsNatalie PortmanThe powerful but arrogant god Thor is cast out of Asgard to live amongst humans in Midgard (Earth), where he soon becomes one of their finest defenders.You couldn't ask for a better cast: Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Anthony Hopkins as Odin, Tom Hiddleston as Loki and three total babes as Jane Porter, Jane's friend Darcy and Lady Sif -- Natalie Portman, Kat Dennings and Jaimie Alexander respectively. Some complain about the Asian and African actors in the roles of Hogun and Heimdall, but Hogun always seemed to be modeled after Mongol-types anyway. And who says there aren't other races on Asgard anyway? The Norse encountered some Asgardians many centuries ago spurring their mythology, which naturally didn't include (then) far-off races, but who says the real Asgardians weren't racially diverse?
Some criticize the film as campy because it deals with Norse mythology and the fact that the whole realm of Asgard can seem outlandish and cartooney. Yet the movie isn't about their mythology but about the actual Asgardians, who are very real in this story.
"Thor" works so well because it's more than just a bunch mindless superhero mumbo jumbo and exciting action/CGI. The deep themes include the pitfalls of arrogance, juvenile rebellion, jealousy, rivalry and deceit, as well as the universal nobility of humility, repentance, courage and sacrificial love. On top of all this, we get a complex and interesting villain for a change.
What more could you ask for in a cinematic adaption of the comic? - DirectorAlan TaylorStarsChris HemsworthNatalie PortmanTom HiddlestonWhen the Dark Elves attempt to plunge the universe into darkness, Thor must embark on a perilous and personal journey that will reunite him with doctor Jane Foster.The Thor comic was unique in that the stories regularly involved three realms: the mythical Asgard and neighboring areas, uncharted expanses across the universe, and Earth. I rarely appreciated the Asgardian segments, but I often enjoyed the many creative cosmic explorations and the Earth-centered stories. Like the first movie, this sequel is amazing in that it successfully recreates Asgard and its main characters for the screen, not to mention that it actually makes them interesting (I never found Odin, Sif or the Warrior's Three interesting).
The bulk of the movie takes place on Asgard and the sci-fi effects are just mind-blowing; I particularly like Malekith’s spacecrafts and the Asgardian ship-crafts. Thankfully, there are some Earth sequences, including the dynamic climax in London. Bottom Line: This is a thrilling sequel; if you like the first movie you’ll appreciate this one too. - DirectorAng LeeStarsEric BanaJennifer ConnellySam ElliottBruce Banner, a genetics researcher with a tragic past, suffers an accident that causes him to transform into a raging green monster when he gets angry.Yeah, yeah, I get the criticisms: The drama is presented in a lazy, convoluted way that somehow detaches the viewer from the film, but I'm okay with it as long as I put on a pot of coffee, lol. This will naturally turn-off Hulk fans who were expecting a fast-paced, simplistic "Hulk will SMASH" story.
Some of the casting is questionable, like Eric Bana as Bruce Banner. Some criticize him as "wooden" but this isn't what I object to as it's the point of the character. Although Bana is certainly likable in the role, and I've gotten used to him, he just doesn't exude Bruce Banner as depicted in the comics or the TV series; he's too much of a handsome muscleman who looks like he could kick some serious arse without turning into the Hulk, which takes away from the whole concept. By contrast, both Bill Bixby and Edward Norton fit the character. Then there's Nick Nolte as Bruce's father, David Banner, the "Absorbing Man." It took me quite a while to get used to his role in this film, but I'm okay with it now.
So what's good about this movie?- What I'm most impressed with is the serious, intelligent, respectable manner in which the story is presented. There are no goofy, campy elements to be found.
- Most of the casting is good: Sam Elliott as General "Thunderbolt" Ross, Jennifer Connelly as Betty Ross and Josh Lucas as Glen Talbot.
- Ang Lee shows off his filmmaking skill with various creative editing/framing techniques (supposedly giving the feel of a comic book). I've never seen this type of work in any other film, particularly not to this degree of innovation. It works for me.
- I think they did an excellent job with the appearance of the Hulk (although he looks best in "The Avengers"). Since they were endeavoring to show the REAL Hulk, the one that throws tanks around and jumps across the landscape, they had no choice but to go the CGI route. They did the best they could with the technology available at the time (early 2000s) and it holds up pretty good. Hey, it's better than a big body-builder painted green!
- Without doubt, the best part of the film is the 22-minute rampage of the Hulk that starts at the 92-minute mark. This IS the Hulk! The enthralling sequence realistically shows the Hulk taking on the military as was often portrayed in the comics. This is definitely one of the best action sequences ever put to film. Make no mistake, the DVD is worth owning for this 22-minute episode alone
- DirectorLouis LeterrierStarsEdward NortonLiv TylerTim RothBruce Banner, a scientist on the run from the U.S. Government, must find a cure for the monster he turns into whenever he loses his temper.Some say that the '08 version opts for brawn over the brainy approach of the '03 version, but -- with the exception of Hulk's fight with the Abomination at the end -- this isn't even remotely true. Each film has a lot of drama and I was impressed with the reverent, realistic tone both films have in their non-hulk portions. Banner's relationship with Betty Ross is particularly well-done and moving, especially in the '08 version. Great job by the principles here -- Bana, Norton, Jennifer Connelley and Liv Tyler.
The '08 version starts out better than the '03 version, more interesting and entertaining, but tends to lose steam by the third act with the ultra-cartooney fight between Hulk and the Abomination. By contrast, the '03 version starts out slow and relatively boring but strongly revives interest by the 90-minute mark when the Hulk has that spectacular rampage that starts in the desert and ends in San Francisco, which lasts a whole 22 minutes.
Edward Norton plays a better Bruce Banner than Eric Bana; he's just truer to the character from the comics and TV show.
The Hulk has a grittier overall appearance, but the filmmakers opted for a snot-greened hue, whereas the '03 Hulk has a better shade of green. Furthermore, '03 Hulk looks more realistic and less cartooney, although the facial features of the '08 Hulk are excellent. However, the Hulk featured in "The Avengers" is perfect.
The '03 version also shows the Hulk jumping around with incredible leaps – almost flying – as he does in the comics, which the '08 version barely implies. The likely reason for this is that the filmmakers rightly realized they couldn't even touch Ang Lee's film in this area.
Of course the '03 Hulk is bogged down by the origin story, while the '08 version breezes through it in literally 3 minutes. To make matters worse for the '03 version, changes were made that slow the story down and needlessly complicate it. In the comic Bruce Banner became the Hulk after accidentally being exposed to gamma rays from a huge government test-bomb in the desert. In Hulk '03 the Hulk's origin is complicated by being tied to Bruce's mad scientist father who experimented on him when he was a little boy. Although one has to allow some latitude in comic-to-film translation these changes definitely slow the story down and make the origin less immediately gratifying. BUT it does offer a father/son conflict to the table.
The '08 version changes the Hulk's origin as well, making it similar to the TV show, plus tying it in to the "super soldier" serum. The '08 version wins the prize on this front. - DirectorBryan SingerStarsPatrick StewartHugh JackmanHalle BerryWhen anti-mutant Colonel William Stryker kidnaps Professor X and attacks his school, the X-Men must ally with their archenemy Magneto to stop him."X2" is generally considered the best of the original trilogy and goes deeper into the conflict of Xavier's school, Magneto's Brotherhood and the US Government's increasing involvement, as laid out in 2000's "X-Men." More mutants are introduced. On Xavier's side: Nightcrawler, Colossus and Shadowcat. On the villain side: Lady Deathstrike and Government agent William Stryker.
"X2" has the most depth of the original trilogy and features numerous interesting character-defining moments along with great action scenes, like the one between Wolverine and Lady Deathstrike near the end. There's also a particularly notable clash when Wolverine and others are forced to confront Federal agents as they storm Xavier's school. In other words, the US Government becomes the proverbial "bad guys." Take note how Wolverine shows no mercy.
Unfortunately, the film overstays its welcome and goes on and on well after Wolverine's fight with Deathstrike, but I'm not complaining. I like the emphasis on character and the way the film eschews moronic "blockbuster" conventions. - DirectorBrett RatnerStarsPatrick StewartHugh JackmanHalle BerryThe human government develops a cure for mutations, and Jean Grey becomes a darker uncontrollable persona called the Phoenix who allies with Magneto, causing escalation into an all-out battle for the X-Men."X-Men: The Last Stand" is generally well-regarded but has a very vocal segment of fans who revile it. This makes little sense since, despite having a new director, the film has the same tone and principle actors as the previous two and brings to culmination the ideas presented therein. Aside from the final fight between Magneto's Brotherhood and Xavier's X-Men we get the resurrection of Jean Grey and her struggle with the dark side of her psyche.
Some complain of the deaths of two prominent characters, but how often are characters resurrected in comics? Isn't one significant character resurrected in this very film? Others complain about the supposed short runtime and lack of depth but X3 has the exact same runtime as the first film (104 minutes) and there's plenty of depth to mine, take Rogue's dilemma over taking a cure for human intimacy, Phoenix's incredible inner conflict symbolizing the universal clash of flesh and spirit / id and super-ego, Cyclop's grief and astonishing discovery, Pyro's moral degeneration, Mystique's plight after getting kicked out of the Brotherhood and Wolverine's struggle to do the right thing despite his deep love, to name just six. - DirectorRichard LesterStarsChristopher ReeveRichard PryorMargot KidderSynthetic kryptonite laced with tar splits Superman in two: good Clark Kent and bad Man of Steel.No, it's not as good as the first two and it gets s a lot of flack for the inclusion of Richard Pryor, but it's satisfying once you get used to the presence of Pryor.
Christopher Reeves as Superman is good, of course, but you also have Robert Vaughn as the Luthor-like villain and Pamela Stephenson as his hot female assistant a la Miss Teschmacher. The cast really excels with the inclusion of the beautiful Annette O'Toole as Lana Lang, a sort of replacement for Lois Lane, who barely appears in this installment. Annette is a pleasure to behold throughout.
Once you get used to the presence of Pryor the film really takes off in the second half with Superman fighting his dark side, an obvious type of the inner conflict of flesh & spirit within us all. Even more, there's the heartwarming redemption of a certain character that illustrates how a person can make a huge mistake and still be applicable for redemption, as long as he or she is willing. The film just leaves you with a good feeling. - DirectorTim StoryStarsIoan GruffuddMichael ChiklisChris EvansA group of astronauts gain superpowers after a cosmic radiation exposure and must use them to oppose the plans of their enemy, Doctor Victor Von Doom.Yeah, I know they fumbled the ball with Dr. Doom and the action climax could've been better, but I still find this a very entertaining superhero flick.
Being an ORIGIN story, the characters are all relatively young here. Reed & Ben are probably only about thirty years old at this time (or slightly older), Sue is in her mid-twenties and Johnny is in his early twenties. Needless to say, don't expect to see a depiction of the Fantastic Four from issue #555! Some have also complained that The Thing is missing his notable rocky eyebrow but, again, the story takes place when they first get their powers. Those of us who know our FF history know very well that he had no defining eyebrow back then. Only as he mutated over time did the eyebrow appear.
What has always separated the Fantastic Four from other comic heroes is that they're a FAMILY; and all the character hallmarks of this family are wonderfully depicted here: Johnny & Ben's fighting, Hothead's likable show off-ness, Reed's great intellect yet total lack of common-sense social skills, The Thing's grumbling struggle over being a monster and outcast, Reed's obsessive attempts to give The Thing back his humanity, as well as his attempts to restrain Ben when he has an understandable temper tantrum, Sue & Johnny's sister/brother bickering, etc.
Other notable FF hallmarks are present as well: The Baxter Building, Victor Von Doom, Latveria and Ben's blind girlfriend Alicia Masters. Heck, even mailman Willie Lupkin is here, naturally played by FF creator Stan Lee. Sue Storm's original hero moniker "the Invisible GIRL" is even poked fun at.
Next to the lamentable 2015 "Fant4stic" this version is a veritable masterpiece. - DirectorJoss WhedonStarsRobert Downey Jr.Chris EvansScarlett JohanssonEarth's mightiest heroes must come together and learn to fight as a team if they are going to stop the mischievous Loki and his alien army from enslaving humanity."The Avengers" is definitely an entertaining superhero team flick, but it has its shortcomings. A slow build-up, the one-dimensional setting of the heli-carrier and a weak army of foes work against the movie, but it's filled with myriad highlights, including the Hulk and the witty dialog. The third act delivers the goods as a wholly kinetic and engaging superhero team flick.