Barbie

 

Barbie is a fantasy comedy directed and co-written by Greta Gerwig. The film was inspired by the iconic Mattel fashion dolls featuring Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken. Together, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, triggered by an identity crisis. Joining the ensemble are America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell.

The plot was unique and engaging. The film also took a fascinating peek into the history of the iconic doll. At its heart, Barbie granted permission to be one's authentic self, embracing the idea that you are never too old to play. This theme resonated deeply through America Ferrera's character, Gloria, a Mattel employee who was struggling connecting with her daughter.

This was a brilliant satire that highlighted the dangers of capitalism, with Ariana Greenblatt's character, Sasha, as a voice of reason who saw through consumerism and empty promises peddled by Mattel. Additionally, the film masterfully weaved strong feminist themes into its narrative, driving home the message that feminism isn't about supremacy but equality. Exposing how the patriarchal system harms everyone, regardless of gender. While also highlighting that a fully matriarchal world, where men are sidelined, isn't the answer either. Barbie also addressed mental health, explored women's empowerment, self-discovery, and embracing change. Notably, the film isn't anti-men; instead, it playfully involved them in the narrative by offering a dose of self-deprecating humor. 

I appreciated the intentional commitment to a diverse cast, although it would have been nice to have more of a robust character development among the supporting players. Margot Robbie was brilliant as the titular character, Barbie. She was bubbly, kind and likeable with the most beautiful costumes. Ryan Gosling delivered a standout performance as Ken, showcasing his deadpan comedic timing and versatility as an actor. Simu Liu added to the entertainment as Tourist Ken/Rival Ken, infusing charisma into the storyline. I also liked how this film uplifted its outcasts, played by Michael Cera as Allan and Kate McKinnon as Weird Barbie. They emerged as the truth-tellers whose journey aligned seamlessly with Gerwig's feminist vision, where the goal of equality is for everyone to bask in the sunshine of individuality.

In the end, Barbie offered a delightful blend of playfulness and thought-provoking themes. It reminded us that self-discovery and authenticity are worth celebrating, and that change is the only constant in life. With its talented cast and clever satire, this film served as a vibrant addition to the world of fantasy comedies.

Blue Beetle

Blue Beetle is a DC superhero film that introduces us to Jaime Reyes, a man granted extraordinary powers when an alien scarab selects him as its symbiotic host. Starring Xolo Maridueña, Bruna Marquezine, Adriana Barraza, Damián Alcázar, Raoul Max Trujillo, Susan Sarandon, and George Lopez.

The plot was easy to follow and the narrative dove into the important themes of the challenges faced by marginalized immigrants, the enduring power of familial love, and the resilience required in the face of inequality.

It's no secret that DC has faced challenges in producing superhero films outside of its iconic trinity of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. Thus, I entered Blue Beetle with caution, for the sake of George Lopez.

One notable positive aspect was the film's commitment to diversity, offering representation with a Hispanic family and the intertwining of the Spanish language, which was a welcome addition to the superhero genre's tapestry.

The actors, despite grappling with a subpar script, managed to deliver performances that were entertaining. Lopez brought his signature humor to the film, providing moments of genuine hilarity, even though the mullet was an odd hairstyle choice. I was also pleasantly surprised by Adriana Barraza who played Nana. She was hilarious. Unfortunately, the humor often stands in stark contrast to the overall quality of the dialogue, which regrettably fell short of expectations.

Where this film dropped the ball for me the most though was in its action sequences. They felt uninspired and lacked the zing often expected in superhero films. The film's villain also a disappointment, with the corny costume and lackluster character development. Additionally, the CGI left much to be desired, and the technological gadgets used in the combat sequences failed to impress.

Although Blue Beetle faced challenges at the box office and encountered mixed reviews, I am still hopeful for its cast and concept. With improved writing and cinematography, this premise could potentially bring forth a compelling superhero story. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the world of superhero cinema is ever-evolving, with room for diverse representation, growth and transformation. But for now, if you're in search of a bug-bitten hero narrative, it's hard to ignore the web-slinging charm of Spider-Man. 

Past Lives

Past Lives marks Celine Song's debut as a writer and director in this semi-autobiographical romantic drama. Starring Greta Lee, Teo Yoo, and John Magaro, the film traces the enduring connection between two childhood friends, spanning the course of 24 years, as they grapple with the intricate facets of love and destiny.

The film is inspired by real events from Song's life, which gives it a sense of validity. It unfolds as a slow burn with a profound exploration of identity and assimilation within the context of immigration. Notably, the film adeptly captures the multifaceted immigrant experience, delving into the countless challenges and emotions faced by those who leave their homeland for a new life. Through Nora's eyes, we witness the poignant truth that even when pursuing a brighter future, one inevitably grieves the life left behind. Moving to a completely different country often entails losing a part of oneself.

Central to the narrative is the Korean concept of "in-yun," meaning fate or destiny. Past Lives compellingly suggests that our lives are intricately connected, with threads of destiny binding us together in ways that transcend our comprehension.

Greta Lee, Teo Yoo, and John Magaro deliver stellar performances as Nora, Hae Sung, and Arthur, respectively. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, and they skillfully convey an array of emotions, from love to sadness, and even jealousy. The intricate connection between Nora and Hae Sung, despite 24 years apart, serves as the film's emotional core. It's as if he represents her tether to her past life, the one she left behind when she embarked on her immigration journey to the United States.

The film's incorporation of the Korean language adds an additional layer of authenticity, fostering intimacy between the characters and enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Past Lives skillfully navigated the intricate emotions entangled with the immigrant experience. It was an intimate, well-crafted drama with complex characters and thought-provoking themes of identity and destiny. It was a poignant exploration of the human experience that is worth watching.

Sitting in Bars with Cake

 

Sitting in Bars with Cake is a dramedy based on the true story of best friends Corinne and Jane. Corinne, the more outgoing and life of the party, persuades her reserved friend Jane, a talented baker, to bring cakes to bars as a means to boost her confidence and meet potential partners. However, their adventure takes an unexpected turn when Corinne receives a life-altering diagnosis, putting their friendship to the test like never before.

Director Selma Vilhunen, does a great job of balancing the film's comedic and dramatic elements. While there are some genuinely funny moments, the movie also tackles challenging and emotional subjects with sensitivity and respect.

I appreciated the diversity of the cast. The characters were decently well formed so it was easy to connect to them. Yara Shahidi and Odessa A'zion gave outstanding performances as Jane and Corinne, respectively. Their on-screen chemistry was palpable, and they skillfully encapsulated the profound love and friendship that defined the core of this story. Additionally, the casting of Bette Midler proved to be a delightful surprise and a valuable addition to the ensemble, leaving a lasting impression with her memorable performance.

Sitting in Bars with Cake takes you on an emotional roller coaster, but at its heart was a cinematic gem that reminded us of the enduring power of human connections. It's a hopeful and uplifting narrative that is must-see for those who appreciate heartwarming true stories brought to life by exceptional acting.

Kelce

 

Kelce is a sports documentary that takes look at the life and career of Jason Kelce, center for the Philadelphia Eagles. The film highlights Kelce's 2022-23 season, which started with him having to make the difficult decision of whether or not to retire. The documentary gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at Kelce's life, from his time on the field to his home life with his wife and children. It also explores Kelce's relationship with his brother, Travis, who plays tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs.

The film does a great job of capturing Jason Kelce's personality. To have to deal with the pressure of playing against his brother in the Super Bowl and then to lose the big game, was heartbreaking for me to watch. I was impressed by how Jason was able to handle that moment with such grace and professionalism. You could see how even during that difficult time he still managed to lift up others around him and encourage his kids to still be happy for his brother. Overall the documentary did a great job of showing how down-to-earth and genuine he was as a husband, father and teammate.

One of the highlights of the film is seeing Kelce interact with his family. His wife, Kylie, was the star of the show for me. She was so authentically Philadelphian with her strong personality and her unwavering support for Jason and their children who were adorable and full of personality.

In the end, the Kelce documentary was a well-made film and a must-see for fans of football, sports documentaries or just anyone looking for a heartwarming and inspiring story about a man who is more than just a football player.

John Wick: Chapter 4

 

John Wick: Chapter 4 is the fourth and final installment in Keanu Reeves' epic run as the formidable hitman, John Wick. This action-packed thriller keeps Wick on his toes as he's still gunning for his freedom, and the only way out is through The High Table. But, to get there he must go through a new nemesis with global adversaries that want to turn his longtime friends into fierce foes.

The plot was somewhat convoluted, and there are a few moments that stretched the limits of believability. One noticeable aspect, which I have brought up in the previous sequels, is seemingly endless array of enemies that Wick dispatches with uncanny ease. I reminds of the Putty Patrollers in the Power Rangers TV show. It's almost unreal how effortlessly he dispatches anonymous, highly trained assassins dressed head to toe in bulletproof gear. Some scenes even make you wonder if Wick has an infinite supply of ammunition at his disposal, making it feel a bit unrealistic.

With that being said, the film's action sequences are some of the best in this genera, and they are choreographed with a level of detail and precision that is truly impressive. Director Chad Stahelski, a former stuntman and coordinator, has created a franchise that is a visual showcase of ambitious fight sequences. His background in stunts is evident in the meticulous execution of each action scene, consistently pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the genre. The film excels in delivering inventive single shot combat sequences, featuring Wick's ingenious use of a variety of weapons, including a memorable scene involving nun chucks. These sequences provide a visceral and immersive experience, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

I have always appreciated the choice in having such a diverse cast in this franchise. And while Donnie Yen's inclusion in the cast is commendable, showcasing his acting prowess. I would have preferred casting someone who is actually blind for the role, adding a layer of authenticity to the character. Additionally, some of the supporting characters, like Mr. Nobody, are underdeveloped.

One recurring and endearing element of the franchise is the incorporation of dogs in each installment. They are a reminder of John Wick's humanity, and they add a touch of emotional depth to the film.

Overall, John Wick: Chapter 4 is a satisfying ending to the franchise. It was a well-made action movie with some great performances. Bringing back the high-octane action and intense combat fans have come to expect from the franchise. While it occasionally ventures into an unrealistic realm, it was still worth the watch. Additionally, the film's finale leaves audiences with an exciting opening for The Continental TV show, set to premiere on September 22nd, offering fans the promise of more action-packed adventures in the John Wick universe.

The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid is a live-action remake of the 1989 Disney animated classic drawing inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale of the same name. Starring Halle Bailey, Jonah Hauer-King, Daveed Diggs, Awkwafina, Javier Bardem and Melissa McCarthy. As the youngest daughter of King Triton, Ariel’s curiosity leads her to the surface, where she falls for the charming Prince Eric. Yet, Ariel's path to love and self-discovery takes an unexpected turn when she strikes a perilous deal with the malevolent sea witch, Ursula.

The film stays true to the original story while also making some notable changes that make it feel fresh and new. As noted by Collider's Ross Bonaime, it manages to "capture the magic of the original" while introducing significant alterations. One standout aspect of this adaptation is the strong female representation. Gone are the damsels in distress, replaced by fiercely independent women who forge their destinies without relying on the aid of a man. Ariel's sisters stepping into leadership roles instead of being mere singers, and Ariel taking a more confident role in asserting her agency provide fresh layers to the narrative.

For the majority of the film to be under water, it can be hard to truly depict that in a realistic way but I thought the cinematographer did a pretty good job of creating a colorful and visually stunning world under the sea.

What truly sets this 2023 version apart are its thoughtful themes that beautifully weave in important messages about trust, cultural open-mindedness, and the preservation of our oceans. These themes add depth to the story and resonate with modern audiences.

I appreciated the diverse casting all around, reflecting a more inclusive world. Halle Bailey embodied Ariel's naivety and innocence with authenticity, earning her place among the Disney princesses. Melissa McCarthy's Ursula proved to be a delightful surprise, showcasing her unexpected singing talent and acting range in a perfectly cast role.

While this new adaptation shines in many aspects, there are a few moments where it falls short. While The Little Mermaid delivered a kind-hearted King Eric, it raised eyebrows with its choice to have him rule over a primarily Black island. This decision, while it may have been well-intentioned, did feel somewhat off-putting to me. Additionally, Sebastian and Ariel's "Under The Sea" duet didn’t quite live up to expectations, however, the majority of the songs did manage to retain their charm, especially “Kiss the Girl”, offering a nostalgic journey through the classic soundtrack. 

In the end, The Little Mermaid offered a refreshing and enchanting take on a beloved classic. With its meaningful themes and an engaging cast it succeeded in capturing the essence of the original while adding a modern twist that was more inclusive and empowering for young girls and boys alike.

Unforgiven

 

Unforgiven is a classic Western directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, and co-starring Gene Hackman, Morgan Freeman, and Richard Harris. Set in the backdrop of Big Whiskey, Wyoming, the film unfolds as aging outlaw and killer William Munny (Clint Eastwood) reluctantly embarks on one last job after years of trying to leave his violent past behind.

The film explores themes of self-interest and morality, primarily through the intricate character dynamics of the main characters that are venturing to Wyoming to kill for money. It transcends the traditional Western narrative by delving deep into the moral implications of taking a life and the profound societal changes that occur when individuals are killed. As the director, Eastwood, shows how killing can be both physically and emotionally taxing, and he challenges the audience to consider the true cost of revenge. He also used the film's ominous rain as a symbolic way to create a sense of dread and foreboding. The rain also served as a reminder of the recurring nature of violence, and how it can lead to more violence.

While Unforgiven is undoubtedly a standout in the '90s Western genre, it is not without its flaws. The film's attempt at diversifying the cast, were weak, falling short, with an Indigenous character, Sally Two Trees played by Cherrilene Cardinal, lacking lines and backstory. And additionally, Morgan Freeman's character, Ned Logan, while likable with redemptive qualities, also had gaps in his backstory, thus making it hard to fully connect to his character. Hackman on the other hand was particularly memorable as the sadistic sheriff Little Bill Daggett, who represented the dark side of the Old West and thus was able to secure the Best Supporting Actor Academy Award for his portrayal of a man committed to imposing law and order in a controversial manner.

In the midst of a Western resurgence during the '90s, Unforgiven carved its own unique path with themes that are still relevant today. While this may be the go to cult classic for some, I personally prefer Tombstone, which was released the following year.