mishahaynie Reviews

Back to Black (2024)

It's like watching Amy being brought back to life!

[8/10 · 19 May 2024]

Marisa Abela's portrayal of Amy Winehouse in *Back to Black* is nothing short of shocking. Abela embodies Winehouse with such an incredible likeness and performance that it's almost eerie. Listening to interviews with the cast and crew reveals just how much dedication and passion went into making this movie. They filmed at many of the actual locations where Winehouse performed and even enlisted Amy's original backup dancers and band to star in the film, adding an authentic touch that fans will deeply appreciate.

One of the standout aspects of *Back to Black* is its respectful handling of Winehouse's story. Unlike many biopics that focus on the tragic end of the artist's life, this film shines a light on Amy as a person, emphasizing her talent, struggles, and relationships. This approach provides a more rounded and humanizing portrait of the iconic singer.

Marisa Abela's performance is simply uncanny. She not only looks the part but also brings a raw edginess to her portrayal that captures the essence of Winehouse. It's particularly impressive considering Abela had never sung before taking on this role. Her vocal performances in the movie are jaw-dropping and lend an authentic feel to the musical sequences.

Even for those who may not be die-hard Amy Winehouse fans, *Back to Black* is a compelling watch. It's a well-crafted biopic that avoids the usual pitfalls of the genre, offering instead a heartfelt and respectful homage to a beloved artist. This is one of the best castings for a biopic in recent memory, and Abela's performance alone makes it worth the watch.

IF (I) (2024)

A Disappointing Kid-Friendly Attempt

[4/10 · 18 May 2024]

I went to see the movie yesterday, and I must say, I wasn't expecting it to be as much of a kids' movie as the trailer made it out to be. Unfortunately, this was one of its biggest downfalls. The film was very kid-friendly to the point where it became a little bit annoying. I was expecting something that wouldn't be so kid-friendly and would at least cater to a slightly older audience as well, but I was mistaken.

One of the huge issues I had with the movie was its incredibly vague plot and story. The filmmakers didn't provide clear attention to certain plot points, making it hard to understand what was going on, especially concerning the parents, particularly hinting at least one of them being terminally ill from cancer, but they didn't address it (obviously because it's a kids movie). Important details were either glossed over or left unclear, leaving me puzzled and disengaged.

Another perplexing aspect was the lead character's imaginary friend being a human, which didn't make much sense compared to everyone else's cartoon characters. This inconsistency made the story feel disjointed. While I appreciate the attempt at originality, these elements contributed to a confusing narrative.

On a positive note, Ryan Reynolds' performance was a refreshing change from his usual roles. He felt different in this movie, and I'm glad he wasn't giving another Deadpool-like performance. I had a theory that his character was meant to symbolize someone significant to the protagonist, adding a layer of depth that was otherwise lacking.

Overall, while the movie had potential and attempted to be original, it fell short due to its overly kid-friendly approach and vague storytelling. It wasn't a complete failure, but it left much to be desired.

The Fall Guy (2024)

A disappointing spectacle

[6/10 · 8 May 2024]

Contrary to many of my previous movie reviews, "The Fall Guy" left me deeply disappointed, and I'm not inclined to jump on the bandwagon of praise. It's not to say that praise isn't warranted, but the film surprised me with its numerous shortcomings. While the stunts are undeniably impressive, perhaps the best in movie history, the glaring lack of well-scripted dialogue and a compelling plot significantly detract from its overall quality.

Moreover, it seemed that the movie prioritized showcasing Ryan Gosling's appearance over demonstrating any depth or range in character development. Yes, the chemistry between Gosling and Emily Blunt is believable, but ultimately, the film felt more like a drawn-out chick flick than a substantial cinematic experience.

While the ending may offer some satisfaction, it's not enough to redeem the film entirely. If your sole reason for watching "The Fall Guy" is to admire Gosling's good looks, I find it hard to believe, but even then, the movie leaves much to be desired.

American Fiction (2023)

One of the most thought-provoking movies of this day and age.

[8/10 · 9 March 2024]

"American Fiction" is a cinematic masterpiece that delves into the complexities of modern American society with unparalleled depth and nuance. Adapted from Percival Everett's novel "Erasure" by director Cord Jefferson, this film is a testament to the power of genius writing and exceptional storytelling. Jeffrey Wright's performance as the protagonist is nothing short of masterful, captivating audiences with his raw emotion and profound portrayal.

From start to finish, "American Fiction" captivates viewers with its thought-provoking narrative and compelling characters. It explores themes of identity, race, and the pursuit of artistic integrity in a society rife with contradictions and challenges. With stunning cinematography and a hauntingly beautiful score, the film immerses audiences in its world, leaving a lasting impact long after the credits roll.

With five Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay, "American Fiction" is poised to make a significant impact at the awards ceremony. It's no surprise that this film has garnered praise from critics and audiences alike, as it represents the pinnacle of cinematic excellence.

If you're looking for a movie that will challenge your perceptions and leave you pondering long after it's over, "American Fiction" is a must-see. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this extraordinary film before the Oscars this Sunday.

Bob Marley: One Love (2024)

A decent biopic that captures the essence of Bob Marley's final years, featuring standout performances and authentic dialects.

[7/10 · 1 March 2024]

I was intrigued to see "Bob Marley: One Love" upon its release, and it didn't disappoint. Kingsley Ben-Adir's portrayal of Marley is magical, and Lashana Lynch shines as his wife Rita. The casting couldn't have been better.

One caveat is the thick Jamaican dialect, which might pose a challenge for some viewers. While it adds authenticity, subtitles would have been helpful. The movie focuses on the last years of Marley's life leading up to his iconic One Love Peace Concert amidst political turmoil in Jamaica.

The narrative takes a sideline approach, blending Marley's personal life with his political involvement, but primarily centers on the buildup to the concert. While there are flashbacks to Marley's childhood and adolescence, the film remains focused on this pivotal moment.

Overall, "Bob Marley: One Love" may not sweep awards, but it's enjoyable for fans of the legend. It's a concise biopic that stands on its own merits, offering insight into Marley's final chapter.

Resident Alien (2021– )

A Quirky and Entertaining Take on Alien Encounters

[7/10 · 24 February 2024]

If you're tired of the same old content churned out by Netflix, then "Resident Alien" might just be the refreshing change you've been waiting for. Starring the talented Alan Tudyk, known for his stellar voice work in Disney films and his remarkable physical acting, this series offers something new and intriguing.

The premise is simple yet captivating: an alien crash-lands in a small town and must assume the role of the town doctor. Tudyk's performance as the awkward alien trying to blend in as a human is nothing short of brilliant. His portrayal adds depth and humor to the character, making him both endearing and enigmatic.

While the concept may seem straightforward, the show's exploration of human interaction and society is where it shines. It's a joy to watch as the alien navigates the complexities of human behavior, providing ample opportunities for humor and reflection.

Overall, "Resident Alien" is a unique and enjoyable addition to Netflix's lineup. If you're in the mood for something fresh and offbeat, give this show a try-you won't be disappointed!

Ted (2024)

A Solid Effort with Some Quirks

[5/10 · 21 January 2024]

Seth MacFarlane continues to shine in the Ted prequel, delivering his signature humor that fans love. Despite a genuine feel as an authentic prequel, the lack of recognizable actors and the occasional heavy focus on deep, personal issues may be off-putting for those seeking a lighthearted comedy experience. Nevertheless, it's worth giving the first episode a shot to see if it resonates with your taste in humor. Seth MacFarlane definitely did a good job recreating the same authenticity from both movies. The show is not spectacular, but it's a decent watch if you want to enjoy the same shenanigans.

I had high expectations before watching this Ted prequel. Over the years, I've truly come to appreciate Seth MacFarlane's work. While he may not be a huge hit in Hollywood, the guy knows how to make entertaining stuff fun! I genuinely believe he should venture into more live-action movies rather than sticking to cartoons because every live-action film he's made has made me crack up with excellent comedic timing. Recently, I discovered that he was only given $50,000 to make Family Guy, compared to The Simpsons, which had a budget of 1.5 million - quite impressive!

More about the show: It feels exactly like the movies! This serves as an authentic prequel with no concerns in that regard. Despite its genuine origin story, there were some aspects I wasn't entirely sure about. While there's nothing wrong with the actors' performances, there are no real headlining names in the cast. I didn't know who any of these people were, which, in a way, makes it more believable, not featuring a ton of already-established stars. However, the lack of relatable actors is quite noticeable. My second concern about this show is its deep dive into the family's dysfunction. It's not necessarily a bad thing, but I feel the show needs more light-hearted subject matter than abusive parents and getting kicked out of the house scenarios. It's not that it's bad; it just delves a bit too deep into personal matters when I want to have a good time enjoying the comedy. The show occasionally becomes too serious with its subject matter. Other than that, it's a great watch, an excellent prequel, and I recommend anyone to at least watch the first episode to see if they like it or not!

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023)

I'm not a Hunger Games fan, but this was bad and just uncomfortable to watch.

[2/10 · 10 January 2024]

I'm not a Hunger Games fan, but this installment fell short for me, earning only two stars. As a newcomer to The Hunger Games movies, I found this prequel to be unnecessarily violent. Despite being rated PG-13, it showcased more violence, bloodshed, and killing compared to several R-rated movies I've seen, raising concerns about its appropriateness.

The movie was not only gruesome and brutal but also left an uncomfortable impression. The atmosphere depicted a world where everyone turns on each other, devoid of characters to genuinely root for. This lack of relatable protagonists made the entire experience cringe-worthy and depressing.

While I acknowledge that the themes align with the book series, the level of discomfort surpassed my expectations. Exiting the theater, my friends and I shared a collective feeling of unease. If the subsequent movies continue to portray such intense violence and the bleak depiction of humanity turning on itself, I may choose to skip them altogether.

Baby Driver (2017)

A high-octane thrill ride!

[10/10 · 10 January 2024]

Buckle up, because Director Edgar Wright's 'Baby Driver' is an electrifying masterpiece. From start to finish, it's a rollercoaster of adrenaline-pumping action and a symphony of excellent storytelling. The film showcases astonishing stunt driving that will leave you on the edge of your seat-truly the best seen in years! Ansel Elgort's performance is magnificent. An instant classic, it's no wonder it secured a spot on AFI's Top 100 Best Movies list. Edgar Wright's directorial finesse shines brightly, solidifying his position among the best in the industry. 'Baby Driver' is a must-watch for any cinema enthusiast!

Extended Family (2023–2024)

I was so excited but now I'm so disappointed.

[2/10 · 5 January 2024]

I was so excited that Jon Cryer was starring as a lead in a new sitcom. I think he does a good enough job, but everyone else in this really brings the show down. There are shows that have more personality and enjoyability that are considered bad, which are far better than this. And it's just awkward because this show's whole premise is two people celebrating their divorce, which I hate. I'm so sick of shows that have such terrible morals. This show lashes out at marriage completely and treats divorce like an honorable thing to do. Abigail Spencer and Donald Faison really are awkward as hell in this, and that's putting it lightly. The only reason why I don't give this one star is because Jon Cryer is in it; that's not really a huge compliment. For instance, the pilot episode is about everyone hiding a dead goldfish from the daughter. That's how deep the show goes, and that's about as textual as the family gets regarding this show's fakeness. That should tell you everything you're in for: starting out their show about a dead fish. A terrible family is what you're getting into with this sitcom. Spare yourself and don't even bother watching this fake sitcom.

Wonka (2023)

Fun, wacky, fanciful, and full of heart!

[8/10 · 27 December 2023]

This is a prequel to the original 1971 film and the 2005 Tim Burton remake. It's directed by the same director of the Paddington Bear movies. He manages to capture the love and fantasy of this Willy Wonka magically. It's not going to be anything compared to the original movies, but it's its own and it is delightful in every way. I was apprehensive about going to see this because I'm not a big Willy Wonka fan, but by the end of this movie, I think it really surpasses the previous films tenfold. I ended up loving it because it's full of heart. I think that's what a lot of movies forget nowadays. This movie was just full of passion and spirit. Roald Dahl and his family has been very apprehensive in the past about adapting his beloved books into movies, and without question, I think this is a wonderful recreation of his work. Timothée Chalamet really embodies the spirit of Wonka in his portrayal. Some essence of this performance can be a little odd, but he looks and fits the part very well. But the standout highlight performance of this movie that really knocked my socks off was Hugh Grant as an Oompa Loompa. And yes, you heard that right. They CGI'd his head onto an Oompa Loompa body. I heard from sources, the director said he wouldn't have made the movie without Hugh Grant being a part of it for some reason, and it's one of the standout moments in the film that is just absolutely delightful. It makes it even more wacky and fun-spirited. If you want to take your family out to a really endearing movie that's going to lift your heart by the end and make you feel all bubbly and cheerful inside, definitely don't miss going to see Wonka! It will make your heart flutter with amazement!

Ferrari (2023)

Really decent biopic by Michael Mann!

[7/10 · 25 December 2023]

I was timing this movie at different parts so that people can get a feel for the pacing of the film. Except for the opener, which is in black and white, everything else is in color, and you don't see any real cars driving until about 20 minutes into the movie. It focuses a lot more on Enzo Ferrari and the spectacle of Formula 1 in crisis, particularly the themed crash that occurred in the summer of 1957.

Let me first say that this feels more like a long-winded abbreviation of a single moment in Ferrari's life rather than encapsulating his whole story. Bankruptcy threatens his factory, and his volatile marriage with his wife has been battered by Ferrari's reckless spending, secret affairs, and the loss of his previous son a year earlier. Ferrari pushes his team to the brink of insanity, and the passion to win drives them to the edge. All of this takes place during the launch into the treacherous 1,000-mile race across Italy, the Mille Miglia. One of the key moments is a deadly crash, a scene not for the faint of heart. It stands out compared to every other part, showing the severity and magnitude of this historic wreck where countless lives were lost. This doesn't happen until about an hour and 30 minutes into the movie.

Keep in mind, this is one of Michael Mann's slower movies, so don't expect to be shifted into fast-paced action and driving sequences. It's more about telling the story of the Ferrari family and the spectacular depiction of calculated insanity behind Enzo Ferrari. Going into this movie, knowing it's slow-paced rather than fast-paced like the trailers suggest, will help manage expectations. It's good, but certainly not fast-paced if that's what you're looking for, and this movie drags to the finish line.

A Dog's Journey (2019)

It's super long, and Dennis Quaid doesn't show up until the very end.

[6/10 · 24 December 2023]

This movie has to be the longest dog movie ever made! Just like some other people who posted reviews, I truly felt exhausted after watching this marathon of a movie! They focus for about an hour on the main character as a kid growing up as a teenager, and then they reincarnate the same dog through multiple owners until the same dog meets up with the same kid who owned it. Now, he's a full-grown adult played by Dennis Quaid. It's a really good portrayal of how dogs' souls reincarnate and how they all have purposes to help different people with different problems. It's great but long! They really could have shortened it.

The Naughty Nine (2023)

A naughty Christmas movie with a Black Santa teaching kids to be naughty.

[3/10 · 23 December 2023]

Let me begin with the positives first because there aren't too many. The sets in this movie are probably the best I've ever seen for a Christmas film, which is unfortunate because the rest of this movie is complete garbage. Not only does this movie teach kids to be naughty, but it also represents everything that Christmas shouldn't be. And Danny Glover as Santa? Really? Not that I'm opposed to it, but why him? He comes across as judgmental and unforgiving, contradicting everything Santa is known for. I simply don't understand why this movie spends almost its entire runtime teaching children to misbehave, steal, and lie, and then, in the last 5 minutes, Danny Glover appears at the very end, telling the naughty kids that he needs their help, with no explanation whatsoever. Sure, the naughty kids might learn their lesson to some extent, but to have an entire movie completely undermine the essence of Christmas and the importance of being good? I don't think this movie sends kids the right messages at all. But as I said, the set design in this movie is the best I've ever seen, and that's the only good thing about it. It seems like Disney wanted to create a naughty Christmas movie to teach kids that it's okay to misbehave.

Unaccompanied Minors (2006)

THIS SHOULD BE MENTIONED AS A CHRISTMAS CLASSIC!

[8/10 · 23 December 2023]

I don't know why more people don't mention this movie. It's fantastic! It beats out most of the comically bad *Home Alone* sequels, and it is genuinely heartfelt, leaving you wishing for a sequel! Where do I begin? The cast is nothing short of perfection. I mean, it even has Thurman Merman from *Bad Santa*! If that's not casting perfection enough, along with Fez from *That '70s Show*, Rob Corddry as the dim-witted father figure, who is a comedic genius, and B. J. Novak, Mindy Kaling, David Koechner, and Rob Riggle, all from *The Office*, not to mention Al Roker, Kirsten Wiig, and even Mario Lopez of all people in this movie! The standout villain, Lewis Black, is just iconic as the main antagonist, keeping all these kids locked in an airport on Christmas Eve! If that's not enough to make this an instant classic, I don't know what is, with a cast like this! This movie gives *Die Hard* Christmas feels throughout and is nothing short of extra perfection with one of the creators of *Knocked Up* helming this legendary cast ensemble! The ending is Grinch-perfect, with Lewis Black's heart growing in size at the end with kindness and holiday cheer! This movie really should be mentioned more often among the Christmas classics.

Best. Christmas. Ever! (2023)

Has a lot going for it, but it's disjointed, confusing, and feels average.

[3/10 · 23 December 2023]

Heather Graham and Jason Biggs, along with Brandy Norwood, stand out in this movie. Everything else kind of falls apart and goes downhill from time to time, like a slow rolling snowball down a hill. It's not terrible by any means; it has a lot of Christmas cheer and joy. However, it feels like watching a Hallmark Christmas special. It has all the right elements but feels like a Christmas soap opera mixed with Jason Biggs and Heather Graham. You might expect a really awesome combo, but you end up wanting Jason Biggs to do something inappropriate because of his 'American Pie' background, and you want Heather Graham to be more like herself, if that makes sense.

The only person I genuinely enjoyed was Brandy Norwood; she was delightful, kind, and full of holiday cheer, truly embodying the essence of what Christmas should be all about. I might rewatch it next Christmas, but it feels really soap opera-ish. If you're into that kind of movie, it's rewatchable. However, the kids in this movie are all over the place with so many different personalities that it really confuses you when watching their interactions. It's not a terrible Christmas movie and it's rewatchable, but it feels out of place and seems like a low-tier budget Christmas movie that doesn't match the title 'Best. Christmas. Ever.'

Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2021)

Woody Harrelson is weird in this, and it's super predictable.

[5/10 · 22 December 2023]

You can just skip this movie entirely. This movie comes off really weird. I think it would have been better if they cast somebody else than Woody Harrelson to be a madman serial killer possessed by Venom. After the first one, I was really looking forward to the sequel, and I have to be honest, I was a little bit disappointed after watching it. Like I said, Woody Harrelson doesn't quite fit the bill for the main antagonist. It would have worked so much better if they cast someone like Willem Dafoe or someone who at least looks evil. I was surprised that this was directed by Andy Serkis. I'm really interested to see Venom versus Spider-Man if that's still coming out or not. I think you could just skip this movie entirely and just wait for that instead. There's not really much else to say. It's just super forgettable when it tries to do so much more. I mean, the direction is not bad by any means, and the camera work is really awesome, but I just think the casting in this movie brought it down a peg or two. You're not missing anything significant if you skip this movie entirely.

Migration (I) (2023)

A beautifully animated road trip movie for kids.

[5/10 · 22 December 2023]

Following the recent success of the Super Mario Bros movie by Illumination, I eagerly anticipated their newest project, 'Migration.' I must note, this film took five years to make and faced postponements due to COVID. All the actors recorded their lines separately, never meeting, a testament to their remarkable chemistry on screen.

The standout performances include Elizabeth Banks as Pam, the Mother, Keegan-Michael Key as Delroy (an enjoyable Jamaican bird with a surprisingly good Jamaican accent), and the surprising portrayal of Danny DeVito as Uncle Dan. Leading the cast is Kumail Nanjiani as Mac, the dad. Awkwafina's appearance here as a quirky side character named Chump is much more enjoyable than her recent portrayal in Disney's 'The Little Mermaid.'

Even the children in this movie shine, and Carol Kane's surprise standout performance as a creepy crane is reminiscent of her role in 'Scrooged.' Setting the cast aside, the main antagonist, a ruthless chef, pursues the birds on their first migration to Jamaica. The character, voiceless yet comical, adds to the unfolding wacky shenanigans.

This movie exudes the essence of a classic road trip but in the air. Illumination's animation prowess shines, rivaling even Pixar. Watching it in 3D didn't notably enhance the experience; its beauty in 2D is undeniable. Directed by Benjamin Renner, a French cartoonist, this film is a visual delight, enjoyable for kids, and a fun family road trip for all!

While not a groundbreaking head-turner, 'Migration' is a charming addition to Illumination's catalog, offering something different and original. The movie's universal appeal across ages in the theater speaks volumes about Illumination's journey in delivering family-friendly entertainment that captivates everyone.

Candy Cane Lane (I) (2023)

Eddie Murphy's most awkward movie yet!

[3/10 · 20 December 2023]

I think only the first 15 minutes evoke a genuine Christmas feel in this movie. The rest resembles a game of hide-and-seek mixed with awkward scenarios and lackluster acting. Eddie Murphy does his best, but with mostly unknown cast members and an awkward antagonist, this film falls flat. The premise revolves around the family being attacked by a vengeful elf. Eddie Murphy's family must find five golden rings to avoid becoming porcelain Christmas figurines and win a million-dollar prize for the best-decorated house.

The storyline loses focus after the movie's start, with the next hour and a half showing Eddie Murphy's family chasing these rings, which feels strange in broad daylight without raising eyebrows. It's akin to Jumanji but with Christmas-themed chaos. The acting quality is what detracts me; the dialogue is cringe-worthy, scenes lack coherence, and the side plots don't align with the main story. The film attempts to be a Christmas classic, but it falls short due to the awkwardness, poorly written dialogue, and absence of holiday cheer.

The main plot revolves around Eddie Murphy's desire to win a Christmas decoration contest for fame and fortune. It lacks the meaningful Christmas spirit; instead, it focuses on selfish aspirations and dealing with a demonic elf gone wrong. This narrative doesn't embody the true values of Christmas-selflessness and the joy of giving. The movie feels self-centered and underwhelming, far from a cherished Christmas classic.

All Is Bright (2013)

Paul Giamatti and Paul Rudd star in a really bad Christmas movie.

[2/10 · 17 December 2023]

Anyone who rates this above two stars is ridiculous, and anybody rating it above five stars is insane to call it a good movie. There always seem to be those Christmas movies scraped from the bottom of the barrel, and this is one of them. It's focused on depression and flips the script on the meaning of Christmas, putting characters in depressing situations to remind people to appreciate what they have during the holiday season. However, nothing about this movie is joyous or cheery. Two equally awful characters, played by two respectable actors, populate this bleak Christmas movie. It feels like Paul Rudd just wanted to work with Paul Giamatti, and that's it. I can't fathom why they'd sign on to such a bleak project. It's akin to when Robin Williams starred in the equally depressing 'A Merry Friggin' Christmas,' equally as bad and dreary as this. Studios often assemble great casts for such bleak Christmas movies, sucking the fun out of the holiday and leaving you questioning why you wasted your time. Take 'All is Bright,' for instance; despite the positive title, nothing about it is bright or cheerful. The two main characters can't stand each other-one's a convicted felon, the other's dating the other's ex. The ex even lies to the only child in the movie about Paul Giamatti's character being dead. Their only job opportunity is working with the ex's current partner, adding to their misery. By the movie's end, they decide to burglarize the kind person who helped them, making matters worse. Literally, no one in this movie is a good person, except the rivalry tree-selling company they threaten to relocate. Everyone's miserable and deplorable. There are no redeeming qualities or lessons learned; it's just a parade of terrible people stealing from the only kind person. The characters are all human garbage, making it one of the worst Christmas movies I've seen. The only reason it's not a one-star rating is solely because Paul Giamatti and Paul Rudd star together, which is a novelty. If you're up for a bleak and depressing movie where awful human beings backstab each other and steal, this might be your pick. However, I don't know anyone who'd want to watch this with their family and have a good time, as there's nothing remotely good in this movie.

The Grinch (2018)

Not the original, but if you give it a chance, it's good.

[4/10 · 14 December 2023]

Lately, I've been loving Illumination's movies they've been making! With Disney and Pixar on the decline lately, Illumination has really stepped up to the plate with their recent success with the Super Mario Bros movie. I'm excited to see their newest film called 'Migration,' coming out this December. In this adaptation of Dr. Seuss's 'The Grinch Who Stole Christmas,' Pharrell Williams narrates it because he has a partnership with Illumination. Benedict Cumberbatch voices the Grinch and doesn't sound half bad. Rashida Jones even voices Cindy Lou, whose mother and the girl who plays Cindy Lou Who in this is pretty endearing.

The animation is just absolutely breathtaking in this, and they really beautifully recreate Whoville and Mount Crumpet. I really find this version far more palpable and enjoyable for kids compared to the Ron Howard and Jim Carrey nightmare-fueled remake that honestly gave children nightmares and was a whole lot darker. This version is a lot more wholesome to watch and not nearly as creepy. You can tell Illumination really cared about the design and aesthetic of this movie a whole lot, and they put top-notch animators to really bring Dr. Seuss's 'The Grinch' to life in the most honorable way possible.

The Grinch is not nearly as mean or diabolical in this adaptation compared to the original and the Jim Carrey version. He's a lot more toned down, and they focus more on how he doesn't feel loved, making him less dastardly than the other previous versions, which I feel is more suitable for kids anyway and still drives the valuable lesson home that no one should feel alone on Christmas. All the Whos are super jolly and positive.

But I think what separates this version from the previous versions probably the most is the Whos don't treat the Grinch like a monster. After the Grinch takes everything from the Whos, they honestly are more confused and upset when the Grinch steals everything of theirs but are super forgiving and heartwarmingly compassionate after they find out his tragic tale. Oddly enough, they're not even frightened by him like they are in the originals, which is an interesting take and makes the movie a lot more endearing, I think.

I think the most lovable character, obviously, is the Grinch's dog, Max, in this movie. They almost give him a Gromit-like personality with a lot of miming and a certain level of endearment. The Grinch is not nearly as cruel to Max as he is in the other two versions, and he is the standout performance that really outshines Benedict Cumberbatch most times throughout the movie with his love and support towards the Grinch that really makes seeing the Grinch's transformation lovable.

There's a lot to this movie that is different, but honestly, I think they should have just skipped the whole frightening Jim Carrey version and just created an animated movie to follow up the original to begin with. And I think the Illumination production company really hit the mark with this one and did justice to make this as poetically beautiful and honor the original as much as possible. It's not an instant classic like the original, but it's a really beautiful looking adaptation that's far more suitable for young children to enjoy and still understand the valuable messages to learn from. And honestly, Benedict Cumberbatch's voice as the Grinch sounds incredible, and I think Illumination did a good job. Like this movie or not, I think this is a good and faithful adaptation of the original.

Family Switch (2023)

It's 'Freaky Friday,' but with a Christmas theme.

[3/10 · 13 December 2023]

You have Jennifer Garner reprising her '13 Going on 30' type of role, Ed Helms playing himself, Emma Myers, who was in the new Wednesday TV show, Brandy Noon, the new up-and-comer recently starring in the new 'Teenage Mutant Turtles' movie and 'Good Boys', and also voicing characters in the newly animated 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' movies. This movie is really cute and fun. Yeah, it's just another 'switch bodies' movie. The parents become the kids, and the kids become the parents; that's the twist in this one. Even the baby becomes the family dog and vice versa, which is pretty funny at times. They have a fortune teller causing all this, trying to meddle in people's lives until they learn to walk a mile in each other's shoes type of scenario so they can fix family issues amongst themselves, but I'm just a sucker for these types of movies; they're always fun to see. The whole Christmas theme doesn't add too much except for the fact that it's Christmas and it's the season of giving. Other than that, the Christmas overlay doesn't do much. And my biggest gripe about this movie is the title. 'Family Switch'? Come up with something a little bit better than that. Other than that, Jennifer Garner and Helms being themselves, and the new up-and-comer kids, are what really set this movie apart. The kids really do a good job playing people you've never seen before. And Emma Myers is really the standout performance among the group. She brings a lot of spontaneity to her performance. So if you want to see a cute, family-friendly Christmas overlay of 'Freaky Friday', it's fun for the whole family, just don't expect it to be something you haven't already seen before.

Dream Scenario (2023)

This movie was really wacky!

[4/10 · 1 December 2023]

So let me state that it's going to have some vague spoilers, but nothing significant. The first quarter of the movie is a good start. It's more of a horror movie than a comedy, so I don't understand why they're promoting it as a comedy. Don't expect a lot of laughs if you go to see it; it's much darker. There are a couple of things in this movie that go on for far too long: a really uncomfortable and awkward infidelity sequence, and a drawn-out board meeting that doesn't progress. This movie delves into cancel culture and becoming a pariah, and it's pretty sinister at times, not light-hearted at all. Unfortunately, Nicolas Cage's character comes off as kind of wimpy. Nobody respects him; he's socially awkward and somewhat of a people-pleaser, ending up awkward and alone. I did like the premise, though-it was interesting, exploring the stigma of instant fame and losing it due to social awkwardness and cancel culture. I watched this on the second day it opened, and there were only four other people in the theater, which wasn't a good sign. It's more of an experimental culture trip with Nicolas Cage portraying a professionally socially awkward weirdo. I usually like his zany characters, but this was a bit cringy at times. It's not bad; I just think people might expect more laughs, whereas this movie is darker and more sinister than anticipated.

Napoleon (2023)

A Decent War Epic! But it Kind of Meanders.

[6/10 · 25 November 2023]

The latest from Ridley Scott, "Napoleon," is receiving a mixed bag of reviews. Writing this review has been a challenge due to the polarized opinions among audience members. While some find it good, others consider it a snooze fest. My take attempts a middle ground, as I find it hard to make up my mind about it.

Firstly, Joaquin Phoenix's portrayal of Napoleon Bonaparte is surprisingly believable. I had concerns about his performance fitting the historical figure, but he manages to sell the part fairly well. Interestingly, Phoenix delivers some genuinely funny deadpan moments, which caught me off guard.

I watched the movie with my historically inclined dad. This might not cater to teenagers or a younger audience due to its tendency to meander and offer a condensed version of Napoleon's life. Documenting years of conquests is challenging, especially considering Napoleon's complex life, but the movie attempts it. Events might seem disjointed, resembling a montage of battles and historical moments rather than a fluid story.

Another crucial aspect is Vanessa Kirby's outstanding portrayal of Josephine, Napoleon's on-and-off lover. At times, she shines brighter than Phoenix, capturing the essence of their tumultuous relationship, which acts as the glue holding the movie together.

While not an expert on Napoleon, I knew some basics, including Josephine's intriguing history. Audience reception seems to hinge on age and interest in Napoleon as a historical figure. Expect the unexpected; Ridley Scott brings grandiosity to life but the movie feels like a highlight reel rather than a cohesive narrative.

Oddly reminiscent of 'Gladiator' at times, this war epic contains notably gory and bloody scenes. Heads being chopped off and graphic violence might deter some viewers. However, for those curious about Phoenix's performance, it's a worthwhile watch, especially for his deadpan humor.

Ultimately, I rate "Napoleon" a 6 out of 10. It's worth watching for Ridley Scott's touch on a war epic, but skipping it won't leave you missing anything extraordinary. This review aims to shed light on the movie's divisive nature among audiences.

Wish (II) (2023)

Better than people are saying it is!

[8/10 · 22 November 2023]

Disney's newest feature animated film celebrates their 100th-year anniversary! A lot of people have been criticizing this movie upon its release, saying it's overly generic and not as original as hoped for in celebrating 100 years of the Walt Disney Company. However, I think it's very good! Yes, there are some cookie-cutter and generic elements in the film, but it's not entirely a carbon copy of previous Disney films.

The antagonist in this movie is revealed rather quickly; even from the very beginning, you know who the bad guy is and have a sense of how it will unfold. But I wouldn't say it's entirely unoriginal, as I've been hearing from many people. True, there are typical Disney songs with castles, kings, queens, and people making wishes upon a star, but I believe people have been overly critical due to recent disappointments with how the company has been managing things.

Yes, I agree Disney hasn't been doing so well lately, but I don't think this movie is a bad addition to their tremendously successful catalog. I believe this movie truly holds the essence of emphasizing the importance of having wishes in your life but, more importantly, taking the necessary steps for your dreams to come true.

There's been a lot of discussion about Disney's increased diversity in their cast nowadays, but I think it was a good fit for the new film. There were parts of this movie that honestly made me very emotional and pleased with its meaning and message because I've struggled in life to keep my dreams alive and well.

Sure, there are talking animals and other Disney-esque elements thrown in, but the movie's meaning is what truly matters, and I think that's what people have been forgetting. I highly recommend people see this movie and not heed all the negativity. It's a good, clean, wholesome, and emotional family film that kids and everyone will enjoy, with meaningful and important messages about being honest with your dreams and never giving up on what you truly wish to become and more! Definitely check it out this holiday season!