Anurag-Shetty's Reviews

Challengers (2024)

10/10

There's nothing quite like it & there never will be!

27 June 2024

Challengers tells the story of Tashi Duncan(Zendaya). Tashi is a tennis superstar, who becomes a coach & trains her husband Art Donaldson(Mike Faist), to become a bona fide tennis champion. When Art loses many tennis matches, he must play a match with his former best friend & Tashi's ex-boyfriend, Patrick Zweig(Josh O'Connor).

Challengers is a mind-blowing film. Director Luca Guadagnino has given us a movie that is engrossing, sexy, has several layers & is generally very fast-paced. The background score by Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross is awe-inspiring & really elevates the film. All the tennis match set pieces are phenomenal. The performances are the highlight of the movie. Zendaya is spectacular as Tashi Donaldson. Zendaya's power-packed portrayal of this complicated character, is commendable. Mike Faist is excellent as Art Donaldson. Josh O'Connor steals the show, as Patrick Zweig. O'Connor steals Zendaya & Faist's thunder, whenever he shares scenes with them. This is no easy feat, considering Zendaya, Faist & O'Connor are all on top of their game. Josh O'Connor effortlessly oozes charisma, as Patrick. The sizzling chemistry & natural camaraderie between Zendaya, Faist & O'Connor's characters, are an absolute delight to watch. The supporting cast is good. Challengers is a must watch for fans of Luca Guadagnino, Zendaya, Josh O'Connor & Mike Faist. A mesmerizing big screen experience.

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Civil War (2024)

9/10

A perfect depiction of dystopia.

26 June 2024

Civil War tells the story of a war-torn America. A group of army-embedded journalists, namely Lee(Kirsten Dunst), Joel(Wagner Moura), Jessie(Cailee Spaeny) & Sammy(Stephen McKinley Henderson) travel across dystopian America & have to reach Washington DC on time, before rebel forces attack the White House.

Civil War is an incredible film. Writer-director Alex Garland has given us a movie that is thrilling, action-packed, emotional, completely unpredictable & will leave you thinking about it, long after the credits roll. The war set pieces are mind-blowing & become even more immersive in IMAX. You literally feel like you are in the middle of a war zone. There are several scenes that build the tension expertly & will keep the audience on the edge of their seats, almost throughout the runtime of the film. Kirsten Dunst is awe-inspiring as Lee. Dunst flawlessly portrays every single emotion her character goes through, both subtle & not so subtle, phenomenally. Wagner Moura is fantastic as Joel. Cailee Spaeny is spectacular as Jessie. Stephen McKinley Henderson is brilliant as Sammy. Nick Offerman is perfect as the President. The supporting cast is mind-blowing. Civil War is a must watch, for fans of visionary director Alex Garland. Can't wait for Garland's next directorial effort.

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One Life (2023)

9/10

A poignant biopic.

26 June 2024

One Life tells the true story of Nicholas 'Nicky' Winton(Anthony Hopkins). Young Nicky Winton(Johnny Flynn) was a broker in London for quite a while, before World War II began. During this time, Nicky rescued more than 600 children from Czechoslovakia, which was a Nazi stronghold.

One Life is an awe-inspiring film. Director James Hawes has given us a movie, that perfectly recreates the true events of Nicky Winton's incredible rescue of countless children. There are several heartwarming scenes, that will make you tear up. Anthony Hopkins is mind-blowing as Nicky Winton. Hopkins flawlessly portrays a variety of emotions that his character goes through, with ease & panache. Johnny Flynn is spectacular as Young Nicky Winton. Helena Bonham Carter is phenomenal as Babi Winton. The supporting cast is brilliant. One Life is a must watch, to marvel at the tale of real-life superhero Nicky Winton.

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Love Lies Bleeding (2024)

7/10

Tries to do too much.

25 June 2024

Love Lies Bleeding tells the story of Lou(Kristen Stewart), who works in a gym. Lou falls in love with Jackie(Katy O'Brian), an aspiring bodybuilder who is passing through town, before competing in a bodybuilding competition in Las Vegas.

Love Lies Bleeding is a good film. Director Rose Glass has given us a movie that is unique, gripping, has plenty of shock value & keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, throughout. However, one major flaw is that it tries to mix too many genres & themes. The ending of the film is quite bad & is unintentionally funny, too. The performances are the highlight of the movie. Kristen Stewart is spectacular as Lou. Katy O'Brian is awe-inspiring as Jackie. Stewart & O'Brian share electrifying chemistry, in all their scenes together. Anna Baryshnikov is outstanding as Daisy. Dave Franco is unforgettable as JJ. Jenna Malone is brilliant as Beth. Ed Harris is outstanding as Lou Sr. The supporting cast is excellent. Love Lies Bleeding is worth a watch if you want to watch an original story. Just be prepared for a rollercoaster of a ride!

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The First Omen (2024)

8/10

A worthy origin story.

24 June 2024

The First Omen takes place before the events of The Omen(1976). An American woman named Margaret(Nell Tiger Free), goes to Rome to become a nun & serve God. Soon, Margaret encounters malevolent forces that make her question her beliefs & discovers a horrifying conspiracy that aims to bring about the birth of evil personified.

The First Omen is an amazing film. Director Arkasha Stevenson has given us a movie that is creepy, terrifying at times, makes us feel a growing sense of dread & most importantly, justifies its existence within the iconic Omen franchise. There are not too many jump scares but, the few that are in there, are very well executed. The climactic set piece is unforgettable & the twists & turns will shock you. Nell Tiger Free is the star of the show, as Margaret. Free gives us another spectacular performance after Servant(2019-2023). Ralph Ineson is superb as Father Brennan. Sonia Braga is great as Sister Silva. Tawfeek Barhom is brilliant as Father Gabriel. Maria Caballero is excellent as Luz. Bill Nighy is outstanding as Cardinal Lawrence. Nicole Horace shines in her acting debut, as Carlita Scianna. Ishtar Currie-Wilson is phenomenal as Sister Anjelica. The supporting cast is memorable. The First Omen is a must watch for fans of The Omen(1976). Although it doesn't match up to the 1976 cult classic, it is still a welcome addition to the long dormant Omen franchise.

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Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024)

7/10

Falls short of its predecessor.

23 June 2024

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire continues with the adventures of the legendary titans Godzilla & Kong, after the events of Godzilla(2014), Kong: Skull Island(2017), Godzilla: King of the Monsters(2019) & Godzilla vs. Kong(2021). Godzilla & Kong fight against each other, as humans discover their interconnected origins & connection to the hidden secrets of Skull Island.

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire is an awesome film. Director Adam Wingard has given us a movie that has brilliant action sequences & is audacious for the most part. However, in the first half of the movie there's nothing much happening & there's a surprising lack of action. Godzilla vs. Kong(2021) is still the best movie in the franchise, because it puts the audience right in the middle of the action, immediately. Obviously, no one watches these Monster Universe films for character moments. The action set pieces are awe-inspiring & look even better in IMAX 3D. The visual effects are perfect. Rebecca Hall is superb as Ilene Andrews. Brian Tyree Henry is hilarious as Bernie Hayes. Dan Stevens is excellent as Trapper. Kaylee Hottle is phenomenal as Jia. The supporting cast is great. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire is a must watch for fans of Warner Bros/Legendary Pictures' Monster Universe. Just lower your expectations a tad bit & you'll have a monstrously good time!

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Arthur the King (2024)

8/10

A feel-good adventure.

21 June 2024

Arthur the King tells the story of Michael(Mark Wahlberg). Michael competes in grueling endurance races, that take place over multiple days. On one of these races, he is accompanied by a stray dog named Arthur, who joins Michael & his teammates on one of these epic challenges.

Arthur the King is a brilliant film. Director Simon Cellan Jones has given us a movie that is filled with great set pieces & has many heartwarming moments. The emotional & poignant scenes are of course inevitable, because it's another entry in the unbreakable bond between dogs & humans subgenre. The fact that this film is based on a true story, is absolutely mind-blowing. All the scenes involving the adorable stray dog Arthur(played by a dog named Ukai), are the highlight of the movie. Mark Wahlberg is fantastic as Michael. Simu Liu is awesome as Leo. Juliet Rylance is superb as Helen. Nathalie Emmanuel is spectacular as Olivia. Ali Suliman is outstanding as Chik. The supporting cast is impressive. Arthur the King is a must watch for dog lovers & pretty much everyone else.

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Kung Fu Panda 4 (2024)

8/10

Unnecessary sequel but, entertaining nevertheless.

20 June 2024

Kung Fu Panda 4 continues with the adventures of Po(Jack Black), after the events of Kung Fu Panda(2008), Kung Fu Panda 2(2011) & Kung Fu Panda 3(2016). Po is tasked with becoming the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace. However, he has to search for & train a new Dragon Warrior. Meanwhile, a malevolent sorceress named The Chameleon(Viola Davis), plans to resurrect all the villains from Po's past, who he defeated & sent to the Spirit Realm.

Kung Fu Panda 4 is a superb film. Director Mike Mitchell has given us a movie that is funny, has those emotional scenes & is a perfectly good continuation of Po's story. However, this sequel didn't have to be made in the first place. Kung Fu Panda 3(2016) ended the franchise perfectly & this film feels like a cash cow. The comedic set pieces will make you chuckle quite often. The action set pieces are brilliant. However, the emotional scenes though impactful, lack the depth & poignancy of the emotional scenes in the previous three Kung Fu Panda movies. The animation is fantastic. The 3D is eye-popping. The vocal performances are the highlight of the film. Jack Black steals the show, as Po. Black gives us another spectacular performance as the lovable titular character. Awkwafina is perfect as Zhen. Viola Davis is outstanding as The Chameleon. Dustin Hoffman is amazing as Shifu. Bryan Cranston is awe-inspiring as Lee. James Hong is mind-blowing as Mr. Ping. Ian McShane, Ke Huy Quan & Ronny Chieng are awesome as Tai Lung, Han & Fish, respectively. The supporting cast is good. Kung Fu Panda 4 is worth a watch for fans of this franchise. Just lower your expectations & you'll definitely enjoy it.

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The Zone of Interest (2023)

7/10

Great concept but, extremely dragging.

19 June 2024

Warning: Spoilers

The Zone of Interest tells the story of Auschwitz head Rudolf Hoss(Christian Friedel), his wife Hedwig(Sandra Huller) & his family. Rudolf & Hedwig aim to give their children the best life possible, while staying in an idyllic house with a beautiful garden, that just so happens to be next to the Auschwitz concentration camp.

The Zone of Interest is a great film. Director Jonathan Glazer has given us a movie that is thought-provoking & disturbing, when you think that many Nazis & their families shared a wall with concentration camps & could hear the horrific things happening but, just went about their day-to-day activities, just like every other household. The main flaw of the film, is that it moves along at a snail's pace. This movie would have definitely been more impactful & emotional, if they had shown the goings-on of the concentration camp, at least once. Christian Friedel is spectacular as Rudolf Hoss. Sandra Huller is outstanding as Hedwig Hoss. The supporting cast is awe-inspiring. The Zone of Interest is not a must watch. However, it's definitely worth a watch & just keep in mind that it's a slow burn thriller/drama & you won't be disappointed.

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Dune: Part Two (2024)

10/10

As epic as its predecessor.

18 June 2024

Dune: Part Two is based on the second half of Frank Herbert's novel, Dune. It continues with the story of Paul Atreides(Timothee Chalamet), after the events of Dune(2021). Paul joins forces with Chani(Zendaya) & the rest of the Fremen, to wreak vengeance against the villains who destroyed his family.

Dune: Part Two is a mind-blowing film. Director Denis Villeneuve gives us another masterpiece, that is completely worthy of the big screen experience. This movie is on par with Dune(2021) & perfectly concludes the story in Frank Herbert's source material. The action set pieces are awe-inspiring & become very immersive in IMAX. The visual effects are flawless. The cinematography by Greig Fraser is mesmerizing. The background score by Hans Zimmer is unforgettable. The performances are the highlight of the film. Timothee Chalamet is spectacular as Paul Atreides. Zendaya is outstanding as Chani. Rebecca Ferguson is fantastic as Jessica. Javier Bardem is great as Stilgar. Josh Brolin is perfect as Gurney Halleck. Austin Butler is phenomenal as Feyd-Rautha. Florence Pugh is brilliant as Princess Irulan. Dave Bautista is good as Beast Rabban. Christopher Walken is effective as the Emperor. Lea Seydoux is awesome as Lady Margot Fenring. Stellan Skarsgard is amazing as Baron Harkonnen. Charlotte Rampling is excellent as Reverend Mother Mohiam. The supporting cast is superb. Dune: Part Two is a must watch, especially on the biggest screen available to you. It's a cinematic achievement, like no other! Can't wait for Denis Villeneuve's next movie!

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Madame Web (2024)

5/10

Worse than Morbius(2022) & that's saying something!

18 June 2024

Warning: Spoilers

Madame Web tells the origin story of Cassandra Webb(Dakota Johnson). Cassie works in the New York paramedics department. Suddenly, she starts seeing the future. Cassie will need to confront her past & protect the lives of three young women, namely Julia Cornwall(Sydney Sweeney), Anya Corazon(Isabela Merced) & Mattie Franklin(Celeste O'Connor), from a sinister threat who wants to eliminate them.

Madame Web is a pathetic film, to say the least. Director SJ Clarkson has given us a movie that completely butchers the origin story of Spider-Man & for absolutely no good reason. Sony really needs to get a clue & stop making films set in Sony's Spider-Man Universe, when they don't even have a Spidey yet. Though Tom Hardy's Venom(2018) & Venom: Let There Be Carnage(2021) work mainly because of Hardy's masterful performance as the titular character, Morbius(2022) & Madame Web have been epic fails. While Morbius(2022) was at least fleetingly entertaining due to Matt Smith's hilarious & charismatic performance plus several unintentionally funny scenes, the same can't be said for this movie. There are several cringe-worthy moments & dialogues that may elicit a stray chuckle or two but mainly, will just make you wish that you hadn't watched it in the first place. The worst part of the film, is the misleading marketing campaign. We are led to believe that Julia, Anya & Mattie all become Spider-Women during the course of the movie & the trailers further solidify our belief. However, the scenes with these characters suited up as their respective iterations of Spider-Woman are visions from the future that go on for less than a minute. The action set pieces are passable. The visual effects are good enough. Dakota Johnson gives the worst performance of her career, as Cassandra Webb. Johnson is really suffering with the terrible script & should just stick to indie films, for the foreseeable future. That's where she shines. Sydney Sweeney is awesome as Julia Cornwall. Isabela Merced is brilliant as Anya Corazon. Celeste O'Connor is impressive as Mattie Franklin. Tahar Rahim is the worst part of a really bad movie, as Ezekiel Sims. Mike Epps, Emma Roberts, Adam Scott, Kerry Bishe & Zosia Mamet are great as O'Neil, Mary Parker, Ben Parker, Constance & Amaria, respectively. Please avoid Madame Web at all costs. Only Venom: The Last Dance(2024) & Kraven the Hunter(2024) can salvage the sinking ship, that is Sony's Spider-Man Universe. Hopefully, at least one of these films will finally introduce Spider-Man into this shared universe. Please stop ruining my beloved Spidey's reputation, Sony! Do better!

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The Holdovers (2023)

10/10

A new holiday classic.

16 June 2024

The Holdovers tells the story of Paul Hunham(Paul Giamatti). Paul Hunham is a grumpy history teacher, at a prep school. Circumstances beyond his control, force Professor Hunham to stay on campus during the Christmas holidays. During this time, the school is also home to a cook named Mary Lamb(Da'Vine Joy Randolph), who suffered a tragic loss & Angus Tully(Dominic Sessa), a troubled student who has no place to go during the holidays.

The Holdovers is an excellent film. Director Alexander Payne has given us a movie that's consistently funny, with a generous dose of heartwarming & emotional moments thrown in. The comedic scenes will make you chuckle uproariously. There are many dramatic & poignant scenes, which may or may not make you shed a tear or two. Paul Giamatti is awe-inspiring as Paul Hunham. Da'Vine Joy Randolph is mind-blowing as Mary Lamb. Dominic Sessa is spectacular in his acting debut, as Angus Tully. The relationship dynamic shared between Giamatti, Sessa & Randolph's characters, is the highlight of the film. It would be an absolute delight if this trio reunites for more movies, in the near future. The supporting cast is fantastic. The Holdovers is a must watch. Watch it as soon as possible & I promise, it will be a decision you definitely won't regret.

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The Iron Claw (2023)

9/10

Simultaneously inspiring & heartbreaking.

15 June 2024

The Iron Claw is a biopic about the Von Erich family. The Von Erich family includes the brothers, namely Kevin Von Erich(Zac Efron), Kerry Von Erich(Jeremy Allen White), David Von Erich(Harris Dickinson), & Mike Von Erich(Stanley Simons), their mother Doris Von Erich(Maura Tierney) & their father Fritz Von Erich(Holt McCallany). The Von Erich brothers shared a close bond & were very famous in the cut-throat world of professional wrestling, in the 1980s.

The Iron Claw is an awe-inspiring film. Writer-director Sean Durkin has perfectly captured the triumphs, as well as the trials & tribulations of the Von Erich family's wrestling career & personal life. The wrestling set pieces are fantastic. The emotional & dramatic scenes will shatter your heart into a million pieces & leave you teary-eyed. Zac Efron is spectacular as Kevin Von Erich. Efron gives us the performance of a lifetime & deserved more accolades for this role. Jeremy Allen White is phenomenal as Kerry Von Erich. White keeps going from strength to strength as an actor, after his flawless portrayals in The Rental(2020) & The Bear(2022-). Harris Dickinson is outstanding as David Von Erich. Maura Tierney is amazing as Doris Von Erich. Holt McCallany is brilliant as Fritz Von Erich. Stanley Simons is awesome as Mike Von Erich. Lily James is excellent as Pam. The supporting cast is impressive. The Iron Claw is a must watch. Although the movie does take some very dark turns, in the end, you will be inspired by their resilience & the pure love shared among the members of the Von Erich family.

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Argylle (2024)

7/10

Had so much potential but, falls surprisingly short.

14 June 2024

Argylle tells the story of Elly Conway(Bryce Dallas Howard). Elly is an author who writes spy/action novels about a fictional secret agent, named Argylle(Henry Cavill). A worldwide spy organization finds out, that the story of Elly's new novel, starts to emulate what's happening in real life.

Argylle is a good film. Director Matthew Vaughn has given us a movie that is entertaining, action-packed & even funny at times. However, the story is the film's downfall. There are too many plot twists during the course of the movie & they just get tiresome, by the time the credits roll. After directing masterpieces like Kick-Ass(2010), X-Men: First Class(2011) & Kingsman: The Secret Service(2014), just to name a few, my expectations for a Matthew Vaughn directorial are always sky high. Argylle however, didn't match my expectations & in fact, I was disappointed. It is the weakest film in Vaughn's filmography. The action set pieces are awe-inspiring. The visual effects are great. The performances are the highlight of the movie. Bryce Dallas Howard is brilliant as Elly Conway. Sam Rockwell is spectacular as Aidan Wilde. Henry Cavill is perfect as Argylle but, should have been given more screen-time. Bryan Cranston is outstanding as Director Ritter. Catherine O'Hara is hysterical as Ruth. Ariana DeBose, Samuel L. Jackson, John Cena & Dua Lipa are unforgettable as Keira, Alfie, Wyatt & Legrange, respectively. The supporting cast is impressive. Argylle is not a must watch. However, it's worth a watch for fans of Matthew Vaughn & this star-studded cast. Just have super low expectations & you'll definitely enjoy yourself.

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Anatomy of a Fall (2023)

9/10

A mastery in suspense.

13 June 2024

Anatomy of a Fall tells the story of Sandra Voyter(Sandra Huller). Sandra's husband Samuel Maleski(Samuel Theis) dies unexpectedly & Sandra is suspected of murdering him. Their half-blind son Daniel(Milo Machado-Graner) is the main witness, when Sandra is taken to court. This puts Daniel in a moral quandary.

Anatomy of a Fall is a phenomenal film. Director Justine Triet has given us a movie that is engaging, emotional & keeps you guessing, right till the end. The script by Justine Triet & Arthur Harari is mesmerizing & definitely deserves the Best Original Screenplay Oscar that it won, at this year's Academy Awards. Sandra Huller is awe-inspiring as Sandra Voyter. Swann Arlaud is fantastic as Maitre Vincent Renzi. Milo Machado-Graner is mind-blowing as Daniel. Antoine Reinartz is superb as Avocat general. Samuel Theis is great as Samuel Maleski. Messi is adorable as Snoop, the family's pet dog. The supporting cast is perfect. Anatomy of a Fall is a must watch.

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Anyone But You (2023)

8/10

Typical romcom but, entertaining nevertheless.

12 June 2024

Anyone But You tells the story of Bea(Sydney Sweeney) & Ben(Glen Powell). After a memorable first date, Bea & Ben's natural camaraderie fizzles out. After some time has passed, they are surprisingly reunited at a wedding in Australia. Due to certain circumstances, Bea & Ben begrudgingly pretend to be a couple.

Anyone But You is a superb film. Director Will Gluck has given us a movie, that is hilarious & follows the classic romcom formula. This is detrimental to the film, because it doesn't stand out from the various romcoms of the past. The comedic set pieces, will make you laugh raucously. The emotional moments are good enough but, not nearly as impactful. The cinematography by Danny Ruhlmann captures Australia in all its glory. The performances are the highlight of the movie. Sydney Sweeney is outstanding as Bea. Glen Powell is spectacular as Ben. Sweeney & Powell share electrifying chemistry, in all their scenes together. Alexandra Shipp & Hadley Robinson are awesome as Claudia & Halle, respectively. Dermot Mulroney, Rachel Griffiths, Gata, Charlee Fraser, Darren Barnet, Joe Davidson, Bryan Brown & Michelle Hurd are fantastic as Leo, Innie, Pete, Margaret, Jonathan, Beau, Roger & Carol, respectively. Anyone But You is a must watch for romcom fans & fans of Sydney Sweeney & Glen Powell. Just don't expect anything different in this genre & you'll have a great time.

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Echo (2023–2024)

7/10

Good but, didn't match my expectations.

11 June 2024

Warning: Spoilers

Echo continues with the adventures of Maya Lopez(Alaqua Cox), after the events of Hawkeye(2021). Maya goes to her hometown & must come to terms with her traumatic past, reconnect with her indigenous roots & truly understand the meaning of family & community, if she ever hopes to move on.

Echo is a good show. However, it still sees a continued decline in quality of TV shows set within the Marvel Cinematic Universe after the extremely disappointing series finale of Secret Invasion. As the first series produced by Marvel Studios, made solely for adults, I expected the action set pieces to be on par with the fantastic Netflix-Marvel shows, like Daredevil(2015-2018), The Punisher(2017-2019) & the rest. The action set pieces that are in the show are great but, I expected more of them & for them to be as visceral as the Netflix-Marvel shows(these shows truly earned their TV-MA rating). Speaking of Daredevil(Charlie Cox), he was barely in the show for 5 minutes. They shouldn't have marketed the show around both Kingpin(Vincent D'Onofrio) & Daredevil. This was misleading, to say the least. Alaqua Cox is brilliant as Maya Lopez. Vincent D'Onofrio is spectacular as Kingpin/Wilson Fisk. All the interactions between Cox & D'Onofrio's characters, are the highlight of the show. Chaske Spencer, Tantoo Cardinal, Graham Greene, Devery Jacobs & Cody Lightning are excellent as Henry Black Crow Lopez, Chula, Skully, Bonnie & Biscuits, respectively. The supporting cast is amazing. Echo is not a must watch but, it's still worth a watch for fans of Maya Lopez, Kingpin & the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

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Dream Scenario (2023)

10/10

Nick Cage can do no wrong!

9 June 2024

Dream Scenario tells the story of Paul Matthews(Nicolas Cage). Paul's life changes overnight when everyone, be it strangers or people he knows, start having dreams about him.

Dream Scenario is a mind-blowing film. Writer-director Kristoffer Borgli has given us a movie that makes you guffaw uncontrollably, is bizarre in the best way possible & perfectly captures the ups & downs of overnight fame. The themes in this film are highly relevant & will leave you thinking, long after the credits roll. Nicolas Cage is awe-inspiring as Paul Matthews. Cage gives us another spectacular performance in an unforgettable movie, after The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent(2022). Julianne Nicholson is fantastic as Janet Matthews. Lily Bird & Jessica Clement are brilliant as Sophie Matthews & Hannah Matthews, respectively. Tim Meadows, Dylan Baker, Dylan Gelula & Michael Cera are outstanding as Brett, Richard, Molly & Trent, respectively. The supporting cast is perfect. Dream Scenario is a must watch. I promise you won't regret it!

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Migration (I) (2023)

9/10

Surpassed my expectations.

6 June 2024

Migration tells the story of a family of ducks, namely Mack(Kumail Nanjiani), his wife Pam(Elizabeth Banks), his son Dax(Caspar Jennings) & his daughter Gwen(Tresi Dazal). Dax & Gwen try their best to convince Mack, who is a very overprotective dad, to allow the family to migrate south for the winter.

Migration is an awesome film. Director Benjamin Renner has given us a movie that is hilarious, heartfelt & has a lot of great life lessons, for both kids & adults alike. The animation is spectacular. The 3D is duck-worthy. The vocal performances are the highlight of the film. Kumail Nanjiani is amazing as Mack. Elizabeth Banks is brilliant as Pam. Caspar Jennings is excellent as Dax. Tresi Gazal is adorable as Gwen. Danny DeVito, Carol Kane, Awkwafina & Keegan-Michael Key are perfect as Uncle Dan, Erin, Chump & Delroy, respectively. The supporting cast is impressive. Migration is a must watch for the entire family.

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Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023)

10/10

Doesn't match up to its predecessor but, entertaining enough.

18 January 2024

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom continues with the adventures of Arthur Curry/Aquaman(Jason Momoa), after the events of Aquaman(2018). After being defeated by Aquaman, Black Manta(Yahya Abdul-Mateen II) is out for revenge. Black Manta is much more powerful this time around, with the help of the mysterious Black Trident. Aquaman will have to take the help of his half-brother Orm(Patrick Wilson). Aquaman & Orm will have to put their differences aside & team up to protect the world from Black Manta & his malevolent plan.

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is a superb film. Director James Wan has given us a movie that falls short of Aquaman(2018) but, still has the ingredients that made it a hit. The action set pieces are fantastic. The visual effects are great. The 3D is eye-popping, especially in IMAX. Jason Momoa is awesome as Arthur Curry/Aquaman. Patrick Wilson is spectacular as King Orm/Ocean Master. The camaraderie & banter between Momoa & Wilson's characters, is the highlight of the film. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is brilliant as Black Manta. Amber Heard is effective as Mera. Nicole Kidman is outstanding as Atlanna. Randall Park is excellent as Dr. Stephen Shin. Temuera Morrison is perfect as Tom Curry. The supporting cast is impressive. Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is worth a watch. Doesn't deserve the extremely negative reviews. Lower your expectations & you just might like it.

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Priscilla (2023)

7/10

Underwhelming film, carried by a powerful lead performance.

19 December 2023

Priscilla is a biopic about Priscilla Beaulieu(Cailee Spaeny) & her rollercoaster of a relationship with Elvis Presley(Jacob Elordi). Priscilla starts a relationship with Elvis & discovers that the king of rock-and-roll has many different facets to him.

Priscilla is an impressive film. Director Sofia Coppola has given us a movie that beautifully shows us Priscilla's point of view, after Elvis(2022) focused on Elvis Presley's point of view. However, the film could have been a bit more fast-paced & the ending could have been more impactful. Cailee Spaeny is spectacular as Priscilla. Spaeny's awe-inspiring performance is the highlight of the movie & keeps you glued to the screen, even in the slightly dragging scenes. Jacob Elordi is mind-blowing as Elvis. Spaeny & Elordi have effortless chemistry in all their scenes together. The supporting cast is fantastic. Priscilla is worth a watch. However, just lower your expectations & you'll definitely like it better.

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Wonka (2023)

8/10

A sweet treat!

11 December 2023

Wonka tells the origin story of Willy Wonka(Timothee Chalamet), the iconic chocolatier from Roald Dahl's novel, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Despite being broke, a young Willy Wonka aspires to open the best chocolate shop in the world. However, he finds out that the chocolate industry is run by a cabal of chocolatiers, who are drunk with power.

Wonka is an excellent film. Director Paul King has given us a movie that is hilarious, endearing, has a few catchy songs & above all, is super entertaining. The set pieces are fantastic. The visual effects are perfect. Watching all of Willy Wonka's magical & delicious chocolates come to life on the big screen, is an absolute joy to watch. Timothee Chalamet is spectacular as Willy Wonka. Chalamet gives us another unforgettable performance, this time in a light-hearted role, that shows his incredible versatility. Calah Lane is outstanding as Noodle. Olivia Colman & Tom Davis are awe-inspiring as Mrs. Scrubbit & Bleacher, respectively. Keegan Michael-Key is hysterical as the Chief of Police. Paterson Joseph, Matt Lucas & Mathew Baynton are perfect as Slugworth, Prodnose & Fickelgruber, respectively. Hugh Grant, Rowan Atkinson, Jim Carter, Rakhee Thakrar, Natasha Rothwell, Rich Fulcher, Colin O'Brien & Sally Hawkins are perfect as the Oompa-Loompa, Father Julius, Abacus Crunch, Lottie Bell, Piper Benz, Larry Chucklesworth, Young Willy Wonka & Willy's Mother, respectively. Wonka is a must watch for chocolate lovers & fans of Roald Dahl's source material & its two previous big screen adaptations. Watch it & have a whale of a time, with a guaranteed craving for chocolate, once the credits roll!

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Wish (II) (2023)

7/10

As a celebration of 100 years of Disney, it could have been better.

30 November 2023

Wish tells the story of Asha(Ariana DeBose). Asha makes a wish upon a star & gets an answer beyond her wildest imagination. A chaotic but well-intentioned star, joins her from the sky, in response to her wish.

Wish is a good film. However, directors Chris Buck & Fawn Veerasunthorn should have given us a masterpiece, since Disney has completed hundred years, as a studio. The story is very generic & though there are fun Easter eggs referencing all of Disney's previous movies, it doesn't have the unforgettable quality of Disney films like, The Lion King(1994), Tarzan(1999), Wreck-It Ralph(2012) & Frozen(2013), just to name a few. The humor is a bit hit-and-miss. The emotional scenes are on point. The animation is breathtaking & comes to life in 3D. Some songs are good, while others are average. The vocal performances are the highlight of the movie. Ariana DeBose is spectacular as Asha. Chris Pine is outstanding as Magnifico. Alan Tudyk is impressive as Valentino. The supporting cast is excellent. Wish is worth a watch for Disney fans. Just don't expect a perfect film & it should be a fun watch for the whole family.

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Napoleon (2023)

8/10

Good enough but, had the potential to be flawless.

25 November 2023

Napoleon is a biopic about French emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte(Joaquin Phoenix). We follow Napoleon on his meteoric rise to power, while also chronicling his unpredictable relationship with his wife, Josephine(Vanessa Kirby).

Napoleon is an awesome film. Director Ridley Scott has given us a movie that doesn't quite live up to his best, like Gladiator(2000), The Martian(2015) among many others, or even his recent masterpieces like, The Last Duel(2021) & House of Gucci(2021). This film is quite slow & its runtime could have been reduced, by at least 15 minutes. The action set pieces are mind-blowing. The cinematography by Dariusz Wolski is breathtaking. There are quite a few scenes that are surprisingly hilarious. Joaquin Phoenix is superb as Napoleon Bonaparte. Vanessa Kirby is spectacular as Josephine Bonaparte. All the scenes where Phoenix & Kirby share the screen, are an absolute delight to watch & is the highlight of the movie. The supporting cast is brilliant. Napoleon is worth a watch, for fans of Ridley Scott, Joaquin Phoenix & Vanessa Kirby. Just don't expect it to be fast-paced, temper your expectations & I promise you'll have a good time.

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

7/10

Doesn't come close to the previous Hunger Games movies.

21 November 2023

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes is based on the novel of the same name, by Suzanne Collins. It is set 64 years before the events of The Hunger Games(2012). Coriolanus Snow(Tom Blyth) mentors District 12 tribute, Lucy Gray Baird(Rachel Zegler). Soon, he develops feelings for her.

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes is a good film. However, The Hunger Games(2012), The Hunger Games: Catching Fire(2013), The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1(2014) & The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2(2015) surpass this prequel by a huge margin. Director Francis Lawrence can't recapture lightning in a bottle, directing his fourth movie in the Hunger Games franchise. The first half of the film is mind-blowing. However, it goes off the rails in the second half. The movie gets super dragging & goes on & on, with no end in sight. Another negative is, there are too many songs for a Hunger Games film. The action set pieces are fantastic & look even better in IMAX. The visual effects are flawless. Tom Blyth is impressive as Coriolanus Snow. Rachel Zegler is brilliant as Lucy Gray Baird. Hunter Schafer is perfect as Tigris Snow. Viola Davis is spectacular as Dr. Volumnia Gaul. Peter Dinklage is outstanding as Dean Casca Highbottom. Josh Andres Rivera is superb as Sejanus Plinth. The supporting cast is unforgettable. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes is worth a watch if you're a fan of the Hunger Games movies & novels. However, watch it with low expectations & you just might enjoy yourself.

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Anurag-Shetty

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