Biggs' Zone

A Geek's Cogitations, Conjectures and other Cortical Experiences

Category: Movies Page 15 of 24

Star Wars: Luke Isn’t Broken in The Last Jedi

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On March 11, 2019

In Movies, Star Wars

Several new stories keep popping up on social media that Disney (or J.J.) are calling in George Lucas to “fix Luke”. Apparently Luke’s character evolution did not appeal to many people. This isn’t just some other thing the manbabies cried about on social media; some of my friends have made similar comments. Luke’s behavior is exactly what I was expecting so I’m not sure what needs to be “fixed”. You’ve heard the idiom “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it”; well I believe Luke isn’t broken in The Last Jedi.

The Trailer and TFA Made It Very Clear

When the trailer came out, I’m sure I wasn’t the only one watching it multiple times. However, I must have been watching a different trailer than other folks. There is plenty in the trailer (and The Force Awakens) to suggest that Luke is despondent. Luke, being the first of a new line of Jedi, would feel obligated to begin training new Jedi. His hubris would be his downfall when he fails with his own nephew. Yoda and Obi-Wan also went into exile when they failed the Jedi Order, Ahsoka did it when she left the Jedi Order. Luke doesn’t need to be fixed, he’s reacting as any human being would react; he’s reacting as even the most powerful Jedi reacted.

Look, I get it. I wanted to see Luke pick up a lightsaber and mow down some First Order and watch Kylo Ren soil his emo pants. However, that wouldn’t make any sense based on the events of The Force Awakens. It’s also against Luke’s character to be this Jedi harbinger of death. It would also make him like his father, whom he doesn’t want to be. So much so that when he was tempted to destroy Ben Solo, he exiled himself instead. His attempted murder is the catalyst for Ben Solo to become Kylo Ren. We all wanted to “fan girl” around Luke as he wields the Force with indestructible tenacity, but it would be completely incongruent with the story. The point is making a movie like Star Wars isn’t about pandering to the fans, it’s about telling a story.

Disney’s Perpetrating False Rumors

My other theory is that Disney is using this “power of influence” grip social media has on the world and intentionally stirring the pot. People are so gullible they will believe anything they read on Twitter and Facebook. It wouldn’t surprise me at all if there are people employed that knew just the right words to use to incite rumors and speculation. The point isn’t to reveal anything about the movie, just simply to garner attention and discussion.

If you think I’m stretching then let me provide some examples of conflicting reports. Around the 17th of February a story came out where Abrams stated any of the “complaints” [alleged] fans had with The Last Jedi won’t affect Episode IX.  Less than 10 days later the reports of George Lucas coming in to “fix Luke” started surfacing. Upon further observation of these two stories I noticed something interesting. The former is from a reputable source (aka. Screen Rant) while all the stories related to the latter are rumors concocted by bloggers, vloggers and theorycrafters. Which leads me to believe they are just wishful thinkers and bellyaching “fans”.

In all honesty, I trust Kathleen Kennedy and the folks at Lucasfilm. I’m open-minded when it comes to these movies, unlike all of those fair-weather fans. I love all of the sequel trilogy movies and if they allegedly “fix” Luke, then that’s cool by me. As long as the story still makes sense (and they don’t kill the droids).

/MTFBWY

Breathe. Just breathe. Now reach out.

Movie Review: How to Train Your Dragon 3

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On February 23, 2019

In Movies, Reviews

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World

Directed By: Dean DeBlois
Starring: Jay Baruchel, America Ferrera, Kit Harrington

My Rating:

If you have kids then you know that when they are young and they latch onto something, you’ll groan at the mention of its very name. If it weren’t for my daughter I probably never wouldn’t have watched any of the How to Train Your Dragon movies. When she latched on to these movies, I actually didn’t mind. The depth of the world is immersive and suddenly you find yourself talking about the lore and characters. Despite watching all the different series, several times at her request, I actually became a fan. So much so that I, too, wanted to see this movie.

A new threat has emerged, Grimmel the Grisly. He isn’t just after the dragons, he specifically hunts Nightfurys and he’s after the last of them. He has threatened all of Berk to get his hands on Toothless and, as the new chief, Hiccup must protect them. Finding the dragon’s hidden world is their only hope to survive Grimmel’s fixation. 

Biggs Review

It’s a great conclusion to an epic series. It has some heartfelt moments and it wraps everything up neatly. One of the things I noticed is the “camera work”. I realize that’s a bit of an abstract observation since animated films can’t really have “camera angles” like a live action film. However, they seemed to try to create the illusion of live camera angles, even shaking the camera a bit in a couple of scenes. John Powell (also known for composing the sound track for Solo) continues his amazing work on the soundtrack; I never realized how much I enjoy the soundtrack. 

This is one of those series where you hate to see it end but you knew it has to at some point. If you enjoy the other movies, and the series, then I think you need to see how it all wraps up. The story and character progression makes sense as well as the ending. Also, if you haven’t watched any of the series, you need to check them out.

film_reel“The screen is a magic medium. It has such power that it can retain interest as it conveys emotions and moods that no other art form can hope to tackle.” 
– Stanley Kubrick

 

Movie Review: The Grinch

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On November 26, 2018

In Movies, Reviews

The Grinch

Directed By: Scott Mosier, Yarrow Cheney
Starring:  Benedict Cumberbatch, Rashida Jones, Pharrell Williams

My Rating: [rating=3]

I’m not really sure why there has to be another retelling of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. The only thing I found appealing was the voice acting of Benedict Cumberbatch. If I didn’t have a 4-year-old that loves the Grinch I probably wouldn’t have spent the time (or money) to see this movie in the theater. With that said, this is my movie review of The Grinch.

I don’t think I need to provide a synopsis of the movie. You should know the story of How The Grinch Stole Christmas. This version of the classic story maintains the essence that Boris Karloff brought to life 52 years ago. Benedict Cumberbatch is brilliant, as usual, and Max is just as lovable.

Modern Twist, Missing Text

I only heard “You’re A Mean One, Mr Grinch” once, and it was very brief. Also, it has a modern, hip hop twist to it that doesn’t match the essence of the story. The Grinch is not some gangster so it was just inappropriate. In the 1966 version you hear that song during the entire heist. The song is fundamental to the entire movie. It’s disappointing that its missing from a majority of the film.

Pharrell Williams is the narrator for this version, and he does a decent job. I just wish they kept all of the original text. Near the beginning of the movie you hear a lot of the original text, and they added some of their own. About half way through, it’s all new text and little to none of the original text. They keep with the Dr. Seuss prose but it begins to feel less like the beloved Grinch movie.

Overall it’s better than the Jim Carrey version of the movie. My daughter enjoyed it, which is all that matters, but I wouldn’t pay to see it again.

film_reel“The screen is a magic medium. It has such power that it can retain interest as it conveys emotions and moods that no other art form can hope to tackle.”
– Stanley Kubrick

 

Biggs On: Cancellation of the Boba Fett and Obi-Wan Movies

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On November 11, 2018

In Biggs On, Movies, Star Wars

I’m sure many are waiting for my manbaby to emerge and tantrum after the cancellation of the Boba Fett and Obi-Wan movies. The truth is that I’m not bothered by it at all. In fact the decision makes sense. It has absolutely nothing to do with the poor box office performance of the Solo movie. As much as the butt-hurt manbabies try to rationalize, the poor performance is not the result of fan protest. Fans actually went to see the Han Solo movie! That being said, why am I not butt-hurt about the cancellations?

We Know Boba Fett’s Origin

Fan art of Boba Fett’s escape – by Deviant Art

I don’t think Disney mentioned the plot of the Boba Fett movie. The other non-Skywalker movies take place between Episode 3 and Episode 4. I really doubt that a Boba Fett origin film was planned. Attack of the Clones is essentially the origin story. He’s a clone of Jango Fett that remained unaltered. I think it would be a surprise if this was the intended plot of the movie.

So if it’s not an origin story, there is only one other logical story line. The story line that has been an enigma since Return of the Jedi. Boba Fett’s rumored escape from the Sarlacc in the Pit of Carkoon. This is the story I believe Disney would have pursued. Everyone wants to know how Boba Fett survives the Sarlacc but I’m glad we won’t. I would prefer this remain a mystery, why ruin it? Now we are left to the manifestations of our own minds, which are better than any producer, writer or director could ever imagine. Besides, we wouldn’t have as much excellent fan art and depictions.

What Would We Learn About Obi-Wan?

The bigger mystery of these two movies is what would the plot be of the Obi-Wan movie? We learn more about the Death Star plans in Rogue One. We learn about how Han and Chewie met, the Kessel Run and the Millennium Falcon in the Solo movie. What would we have learned about Obi-Wan? The prequels told us how he became a General and the Clone Wars animated series told us how he and Anakin became friends.

A couple of reports emerged that suggested the story was going to take place while Obi-Wan was in exile in the Jundland Wastes on Tatooine. He would become involved with some kind of conflict between local farmers and the Sand People. It’s not a story I was terribly excited about, therefore cancelling this movie made sense to me. Besides, I think what we all really wanted to see is Ewan McGreggor as Obi-Wan Kenobi again.

The cancellation of the Boba Fett and Obi-Wan movies was the smart move by Disney. While we all really want to see more of the two biggest bad asses in the franchise, I think it’s better they remain enigmatic. I don’t think this is the end of more “Star Wars Story” films. I would love to see Donald Glover reprise Lando in his own film, which Lucasfilm has hinted at before.

/MTFBWY

The Force. It calls to you. Just let it in.

Movie Review: Incredibles 2

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On June 17, 2018

In Movies, Reviews

Incredibles 2Incredibles 2

Directed By: Brad Bird
Starring:  Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L. Jackson

My Rating: [rating=4]

It’s been 14 years since the last Incredibles movie. During the 14 years, animated movie fans have been clamoring, relentless for the sequel. Disney/Pixar finally gave in to the cacophony. I don’t know why it took over a decade to produce a sequel. I understand animation takes quite a bit of work, but perhaps it was the challenge of bringing the entire cast back.

Whatever the case may be, they pick up exactly where the last movie ended. The family of heroes work together, in a group storming sort of way, to thwart Underminer. An ambitious mogul sees the value super heroes bring to society after defeating Underminer. He recruits Elastigirl to help him show the world that Super Heroes should not be illegal, while Mr. Incredible has to play Mr. Mom. Of course, a new nefarious and enigmatic villain appears, The Screenslaver, which puts these plans, and all super heroes, in jeopardy.

Biggs Review

I really enjoyed this movie. I love the fact that it literally begins where the last one ends. It’s almost as if the past 14 years never happened, which is probably Pixar’s intention. I love the role reversal of Elastigirl moonlighting as a covert super hero, even listening to police scanners, just like her husband in the first movie. I felt like the movie was slow at times, particularly during the time when Elastigirl is just beginning her “new job”. They tried to balance it out with Mr. Incredible dealing with Jack-Jack getting his powers; while it was funny I don’t think it was successful. Perhaps they should have introduced “The Screenslaver” a bit earlier, to liven up the plot sooner.

As with all Pixar movies, this movie is not without its Easter Eggs. Of course John Ratzenberger is in the film, reprising the role of Underminer. A Pixar movie is not complete without their good luck charm. I feel like there is some homage paid to Tony Stark/Iron Man. Deavor explains that one of the houses he owns he acquired from an “eccentric billionaire” that wanted to be able to “come and go without notice”. If you have seen all the Iron Man movies, you may notice that the living room has a striking resemblance to the one in Tony Stark’s house.

I’d say, if you’ve got the time, go see it (after you’ve seen the Solo movie). Take your kids, my 4-year-old enjoyed it. I don’t think it’s worth the extra fees for 3D or BigD, a simple digital viewing is the more worthwhile, economic choice.

/cheers

film_reel“The screen is a magic medium. It has such power that it can retain interest as it conveys emotions and moods that no other art form can hope to tackle.”
– Stanley Kubrick

 

Movie Review – Solo: A Star Wars Story

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On June 4, 2018

In Movies, Reviews, Star Wars

Solo A Star Wars StorySolo: A Star Wars Story

Directed By: Ron Howard
Starring: Alden Ehrenreich, Donald Glover, Emilia Clarke

My Rating: [rating=4]

Let’s face it, this movie was doomed from the moment it was announced. It’s poor opening weekend is as lackluster as the fan reaction of the original announcement. Critics are all pathetic so I could care less what they think; and I generally ignore the fare-weather fans. Admittedly, I have been skeptical of this movie since its announcement, but I prefer to keep an open mind.

For what it’s worth, calling it a “flop” seems a little harsh and unfair. How can you expect a movie to succeed when it was mired in doubt and disappointment since its announcement? Obviously people made up their minds before the movie was even released. It’s destiny was determined before it even had a chance. Ranting about fake fans aside, time to discuss what I think of the movie.

Biggs Review

This line from ESB has a much deeper and humorous meaning, now

**Spoiler Alert** Han, Chewie and Lando survive! Haha. I couldn’t resist. The negative expectations for this movie are completely unwarranted. If you have not seen this movie because of a preconceived notion that it’s a flop, then stop listening to the Internet and go anyway. I really enjoyed this movie! Much more than I was expecting. Alden Ehrenreich isn’t as terrible as he was in Beautiful Creatures, he actually does surprisingly well (maybe even better than Hayden Christensen). Donald Glover is a brilliant Lando Calrissian, I am really looking forward to see him in the Lando movie! Honestly, Donald Glover’s performance isn’t surprising, Woody Harrelson, however, is the biggest surprise. I cannot recall too many action rolls for Woody Harrelson but the battle sequence on the tram is really impressive. He makes a better Beckett than he does Haymitch (sorry Hunger Games fans).

There are two things I have to criticize about the movie, which is why I only gave it 4 stars instead of 5. First, I did not find Lady Proxima terribly impressive or intimidating. A large, purple alien worm is not a scary crime lord nor does she fit the Corellia fauna. I’m sure they wanted to use something other than a Hutt as a crime boss, but even a large slug appears more menacing. The second thing, Han actually attempting to speak Wookie the first time he meets Chewbacca. I understand his predicament warrants an alien language, but it didn’t feel like a “Han” thing to do.

And then there is the music.

The Soundtrack Is Amazing

The music is just as important to a movie as the acting, plot and story. If the soundtrack is excellent, 9 times out of 10, so is the movie. The one exception, in my experience, is Ang Lee’s Hulk movie (amazing soundtrack, mediocre movie). Now when you think Star Wars soundtrack, everyone always thinks John Williams. The man IS Star Wars music. You may be surprised to learn that John Williams did not compose this soundtrack. In fact he only composes for the main saga (FYI, Michael Giacchino is the composer for Rogue One).

John Powell is the composer for Solo A Star Wars Story. Powell is mostly known for his work on the How To Train Your Dragon movies and the Jason Bourne movies. I bought, and listened to, the soundtrack a week before I even saw the movie. The music draws you in so quickly it amazes me John Williams isn’t the composer. However, he clearly collaborated with Powell as there is a track that is a montage of some of the original music. In fact, I may be so bold as to say this soundtrack is better than the Rogue One soundtrack and the John Williams montage gives credence to that assertion.

This movie is definitely worth seeing at least once in the theater. Ignore the trolls, the fake fans and the critics and go with an open mind and I think you will find it very entertaining.

/MTFBWY

Breathe. Just breathe. Now reach out.

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