Going In Style (1979 & 2017)

Going In Style (1979)

Movie Artwork for Going In Style (1979)

C. – 97m
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 – Widescreen
Starring: George Burns, Art Carney and Lee Strasberg.

Three bored elderly men decide to pull off a robbery just for kicks. Brilliant dark comedy boasts of fine performances and smart humor. This was remade in 2017 with Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman, Alan Arkin, Matt Dillon, John Ortiz, Christopher Lloyd and Ann–Margaret. A couple of trivia notes: When George Burns looks through pictures from his younger years and starts to cry, he is looking at a picture of himself and his real-life wife and comedic partner who passed a decade and change before this film was made, Gracie Allen. And: The disguises the robbers use are Groucho Marx glasses with eyebrows and moustache.

Rated: [PG]

Available on DVD from The Warner Archive Collection & Digital Copy.

Going In Style (2017)

Movie Poster for Going In Style (2017)

C. – 96m
Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1 – Widescreen

Dir.: Zack Braff

Starring: Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman, Alan Arkin, Matt Dillon, John Ortiz, Christopher Lloyd, Ann–Margaret.

After three blue-collar retirees are given the shaft by their union and the bank in town, they decide to pull off a robbery in order to live out their days in comfort. Spry remake of the original classic doesn’t have the dark comedy aspect to it, but rather has a silly sense of humor. The cast makes this an appealing remake that can stand on it’s own two feet up against the original. Please note that the masks used by Caine, Arkin and Freeman in their robbery are the faces of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr. from their heist film, Ocean’s 11 (1960). Perhaps that added to the fun for this reviewer… 

 Rated: [PG–13] – Drug Content, Language & Some Suggestive Material.

Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy.

Thanksgiving Films

A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)

C. – 30m
Aspect Ratio: 1.33:1 – Fullscreen. – Animated.

Starring: Todd Barbee, Robin Kohn, Stephen Shea, Christopher DeFaria, Jimmy Ahrens, Tobin Reed. Vince Guaraldi and Bill Melendez.

Charlie Brown must throw together a Thanksgiving dinner after Peppermint Patty invites herself and her friends over to Charlie Brown’s house for the holiday. Cute and fun holiday fluff for the whole family to enjoy…

Available on 4K Blu–ray, Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy.

Movie Poster for Dutch (1991)

Dutch (1991)

C. – 107m
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 – Widescreen
A.K.A.: Driving Me Crazy

Writer: John Hughes

Starring: Ed O’Neill, Ethan Embry, JoBeth Williams, Christopher McDonald and Kathleen Freeman.

A man, Dutch (Ed O’Neill), makes a grueling trip to pick up his Fiancé s son at his boarding school and bring him home for Thanksgiving with his mom / his fiancé (JoeBeth Williams). The kid turns out to be a jerk that needs an attitude adjustment. Will they get along? Or will they fight at every twist and turn? Only John Hughes could concoct something this simple in story but make it a must watch annually film. Everything works here. Like most films made from a Hughes script, there are a few areas where the pace could have been quickened. However, since that is the only complaint, why worry? Enjoy! A quick trivial note: John Candy was the first choice to play Dutch. Other actors considered for the role, before it went to Ed O’Neill, were: Tim Allen, Dan Aykroyd, James Belushi, Robin Williams, John Goodman, Bill Murray, Steve Martin and Chevy Chase.  

Rated: [PG–13]

Out Of Print on DVD but available on Blu–ray & Digital Copy.

Movie Poster for Scent of A Woman (1992)

Scent Of A Woman (1992)

C – 156m
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 – Widescreen.

Dir.: Martin Brest.

Starring: Al Pacino, Chris O’Donnell, James Rebhorn, Gabrielle Anwar, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Richard Venture.

A young man, having troubles of his own at his school, accompanies a gruff, blind and old Lt. Col. from CT to NYC during the Thanksgiving weekend and friendship ensues. A wonderful film! Everyone is perfectly cast and Pacino’s performance is haunting and forever lasting as the blind Lt. Col. He won a well deserved Best Actor Oscar® for his perfect performance. While this has little to do with Thanksgiving as a hole, this reviewer watches it annually at that time of year.

Some trivia: The scene where Lt. Col. falls over a trashcan in the street was unplanned. Al Pacino was prepped for the role by a school for the blind. He said he would keep his eyes from focusing on anything or anyone to get the appearance of being blind. Also, he would stay in character in between takes and at lunch and could often be found waking with the cane. Incidentally Pacino turned down the role first. The first choice after him for the role Lt. Col. was Jack Nicholson. Other actors considered for the role, before it went back to Al Pacino were: Joe Pesci, Harrison Ford and Dustin Hoffman. Leonardo DiCaprio auditioned for the role of Charlie. Other actors considered for Charlie were: Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Brendan Fraser, Cole Hauser, Randall Batinkoff and Anthony Rapp. And Chris Rock attempted to audition for Charlie but was turned down. And finally: In addition to winning the Best Actor Oscar®, Al Pacino was also up for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Glengarry Glen Ross (1992) that same year.

Rated: [R] – Language
Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy.

Home For The Holidays (1995)

C. – 103m
Aspect Raitio: 1.85:1 – Widescreen
Dir.: Jodie Foster
Starring: Holly Hunter, Anne Bancroft, Robert Downey, Jr., Charles Durning, Dylan McDermott, Geraldine Chaplin, Steve Guttenberg, Claire Danes, Austin Pendleton, David Strathairn and Amy Yasbeck.

A woman loses her job, makes out with her former boss, finds out her teen daughter is spending Thanksgiving with her boyfriend and then returns home for Thanksgiving with her dysfunctional family. A lame story almost completely undoes this film. The acting and direction are fine, the story just lacks substance and a reason for the viewers to care about the characters. Notable as a great cast and director who are in great form. Unfortunately when the material one is working with is crappy, there is little to nothing that can be done to save it. A valiant effort but ultimately unsatisfying.

Rated: [PG–13] – Thematic Material, Language & Brief Drug Use
Available on Blu–ray through Shout! Select, DVD & Digital Copy. 

L.M. Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables Trilogy

Movie Poster for L.M. Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables (2016)

L.M. Montgomery’s Anne Of Green Gables (2016)

C. – 90m.
Aspect Ratio: 1.78:1 – Widescreen

From The Novel: Anne Of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery.

Starring: Ella Ballentine, Sara Botsford, Martin Sheen, Julia Lalonde, Kate Hennig, Stefani Kimber, Linda Kash and Drew Haytaoglu.

Anne Shirley, an orphan has been knocking around various homes and orphanages until she finally finds a home at Green Gables in Avonlea with Matthew And Marilla Cuthbert, a brother and sister of advanced ages. This like the 1934 film version deviates from the first part of the first novel in the Anne series. What it lacks is the spunkiness of the character that the other film versions captured. Still a sweet story and a film worth watching – beautiful scenery as well. Followed by L.M. Montgomery’s Anne Of Green Gables: The Good Stars (2016 / 2017) & L.M. Montgomery’s Anne Of Green Gables: Fire & Dew (2017 / 2018).

Available on DVD & Digital Copy.

L.M. Montgomery’s Anne Of Green Gables: The Good Stars (2016 / 2017)

C. – 90m
Aspect Ratio: 1.78:1 – Widescreen
A.K.A. L.M. Montgomery’s Anne Of Green Gables Part II

From The Novel: Anne Of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery.

Starring: Ella Ballentine, Sara Botsford, Martin Sheen, Julia Lalonde, Drew Haytaoglu and Stefani Kimber.

Anne hits tweenhood and has a rush of emotions about a number of topics: Matthew’s failing health, Gilbert Blythe and Diana Barry, not to mention her own self-image. As with the first part of the trilogy that comprises the Anne Of Green Gables novel, this one deviates from the novel. Once again: not entirely necessary, but still watchable. Once again the scenery is beautiful. Followed by: L.M. Montgomery’s Anne Of Green Gables: Fire & Dew (2017 / 2018).

Available on DVD & Digital Copy. 

Kevin Sullivan's Anne of Green Gables Series

Anne of Green Gables (1985)

Movie Poster for Anne of Green Gables

Aspect Ratio: 1.37:1 – Fullscreen (Original) / 1.78:1 – Widescreen (Re-Mastered).
C.-200m

Writer – Dir.: Kevin Sullivan. From The Novel: Anne Of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery.

Starring: Megan Follows, Colleen Dewhurst, Richard Farnsworth, Patricia Hamilton, Marilyn Lightstone, Schuyler Grant, Jonathan Crombie, Charmion King and Rosemary Radcliffe.

After being in and out of orphanages Anne Shirley comes into her own as she settles in with Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert. Along the way she makes friends and has a rivalry crush with Gilbert Blythe. Long but splendidly adapted version of the L.M. Montgomery novel, boasts of fine performances and beautiful scenery. The re-mastered copy is even more vibrant. Though some film purists will argue the point. Filmed in Montreal, Canada.  Followed by 3 sequels: Anne Of Avonlea (1987), Anne Of Green Gables: The Continuing Story (2000) & Anne Of Green Gables: A New Beginning.

Out Of Print on VHS. Available on DVD in Fullscreen and Widescreen and Blu–ray & Digital Copy in Widescreen. 

Anne of Avonlea (1987)

C. – 230m.
Aspect Ratio: 1.37:1 – Fullscreen (Original) / 1.78:1 – Widescreen (Re-Mastered).
A.K.A.: Anne Of Green Gables: The Sequel 

Writer – Dir.: Kevin Sullivan. From The Novels: Anne Of Green Gables, Anne Of Avonlea & Anne Of Windy Poplars by L.M. Montgomery.

Starring: Megan Follows, Colleen Dewhurst, Marilyn Lightsone, Schuyler Grant, and Jonathan Crombie.

Anne Goes to university and becomes a teacher as her relationship with Gilbert comes to a head. Not quite the smash of the first entry in the series since it has more slow parts to it than the first film. However, it still is a masterpiece in its own right. Once again: Fine performances and beautiful scenery – particularly in the re-mastered edition. Followed by 2 sequels: Anne Of Green Gables: The Continuing Story (2000) & Anne Of Green Gables: A New Beginning (2008). 

Out Of Print on VHS. Available on DVD in Fullscreen & Widescreen and on Blu–ray & Digital Copy in Widescreen.

Anne of Green Gables: The Continuing Story (2000)

C. – 185m.
Aspect Ratio: 1.37:1 – Fullscreen (Original) / 1.78:1 – Widescreen (Re-Mastered).
A.K.A.: Anne Of Green Gables III

Writer – Dir.: Kevin Sullivan. Inspired From The Works Of L.M. Montgomery.
Starring: Megan Follows, Nicole Peters, Jonathan Crombie, Schuyler Grant, Patricia Hamilton.

Anne’s and Gilbert’s complicated married life during WWI. They want to return to Canada from NYC, NY, USA but everything appears to be working against them on that point. An interesting concoction of events using the Gables series characters. Only a master like Sullivan and a cast like this could make this work, and they all did! This complete the Kevin Sullivan Anne Trilogy with Megan Follows as Anne. Followed by a sequel: Anne Of Green Gables: A New Beginning (2008).

Out Of Print on VHS. Available on DVD in Fullscreen & Widescreen and on Blu–ray & Digital Copy in Widescreen.

Anne Of Green Gables: A New Beginning (2008)

C – 144m
Aspect Ratio: 1.78:1 – Widescreen
Characters By: L.M. Montgomery
Writer – Pro. – Dir.: Kevin Sullivan
Starring: Barbara Hershey, Rachel Blanchard, Shirley MacLaine, Hanna Endicott–Douglas, Natalie Radford, Ben Carlson, Vivien Endicott Douglas, May Walker, Jim Chad, Colleen Dewhurst and Ian Matheson.

Anne still hurting from the recent loss of her husband in her middle age returns to Green Gables to write a play and discovers letters that rewrite her life story. This is a far cry from the Green Gables that everyone knew and loved from 1985, however this reviewer will argue that this is not the turkey that other reviewers have made it out to be. Pacing is slow, sets are a tad fake looking and there are a few instances of miscasting but it one can look past those flaws this is well done. If John Cassavetes had lived past age 59 and had be introduced to the L.M. Montgomery novels and stories, I am fairly certain this would have been the film version he would have made. To that end what Kevin Sullivan was able to pull off here is on par with the above average work of John Cassavetes in the director’s chair. The aforementioned hampering elements aside, the cinematography is wonderful as are a fair amount of the performances, not the least of which was MacLaine, and the back and forth story that add up to the complete tale, tying up some loose threads from the other films, this one is a nice final chapter in the Green Gables saga. Sadly underrated by others, as, sadly, is most of John Cassavetes’ directorial work. Though I hasten to emphasize this IS NOT actually a Cassavetes film.

Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy.

Gilbert (2017)

Movie Poster for Gilbert (2017)

Gilbert (2017)

C. & B&W – 99m.
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen

Starring: Gilbert Gottfried, Dave Attell, Joy Behar, Richard Belzer, Lewis Black, Bill Burr, Susie Essman, Jim Gaffigan, Judy Gold, Whoopi Goldberg, Arlene Gottfried, Dara Gottfried, Karen Gottfried, Arenio Hall, Penn Jillette, Richard Kind, Artie Lange, Jay Leno, Howie Mandel, Jim Norton, Joe Piscopo, Paul Provenza, Jeffrey Ross, Fran Santopadre, Dick Van Dyke and Arlene Van Dyke. 

Documentary on the life and career of comedian Gilbert Gottfried. While this is a touching look at the life and career of Gilbert Gottfried, and it certainly paints a different picture of Gottfried of stage VS on stage, one can’t escape that the film is about as ill at ease talking about the man as the man himself is about being talked about. Those with Autism Level 1 or Asperger’s Syndrome may notice some traits of the disorder in Gottfried. A curio to be sure, the film is moving, warm and revealing. Word of advise: Do not watch with young kids, despite Gilbert Gottfried being the voice of Iago in the Aladdin franchise.

Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy.

The Hitman's Bodyguard

Movie Poster for The Hitman's Bodyguard

The Hitman's Bodyguard (2017)

C. – 118m.
Aspect Ratio: 2.39:1 – Widescreen.

Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L. Jackson, Gary Oldman, Selma Hayek, Roy Hill, Richard E. Grant, Rod Hallett and Joaquim De Almeida.

A bodyguard who’s reputation is on the line (after his last charge was assassinated) is forced to team with a hitman who can’t get out of trouble on his way to an International Criminal Court, where he must testify. By the numbers to be sure but the smart–ass script makes it a fun watch. There is a bit of a lull in the middle of the film, but it recovers nicely. See how many pop culture references you can catch in the film. And make sure to stay through all of the end credits to see a very funny outtake of Ryan Reynolds from the film! 

Rated: [R] – Strong Violence & Laguage Throughout
Available on 4K Blu–ray, Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy

The Saw Franchise (2004-2017)

Saw (2004)

C – 103m
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 – Widescreen
Cary Elwes, Danny Glover, Ken Leung, Makenzie Vega, Monica Potter, Ned Bellamy and Tobin Bell.

Two strangers awake in a room with no recollection of how they got there and soon discover they are pawns in a deadly game perpetrated by a notorious serial killer. Made on a shoestring budget this grisly horror film was cutting edge, if you’ll pardon the pun, when it was released. Very well done but at the end of the day it started a formula series that fluctuates in likability as the series continues. Fine acting and interesting touches here, though they are admittedly used to cover the lack of shots acquired with the actors due to the limited budget. 

Note: At one point there were two cuts of this film – Theatrical Cut & Director’s Cut (running 98m), however the latter cut has been discontinued. 

Rated: [R] – Strong Grisly Violence & Language
[UNRATED] – More Of The Same
Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy 

Saw II (2005)

C – 93m (Theatrical Cut) / 95m (Unrated Cut)
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 – Widescreen
Starring: Tobin Bell, Shawnee Smith, Donnie Wahlberg, Franky G, Glenn Plummer, Emmanuelle Vaugier and Cary Elwes.

A detective and his team must rescue 8 people trapped in a factory by the twisted serial killer known only as Jigsaw. Well–done and obviously grisly sequel. This reviewer must admit to the personal skeeve of the needle pit scene.  

Trivia: Five alternant endings were shot. It took four days for four people to replace all the needle tips with fiver tips for the needle pit scene. In total around 120,000 syringes were used in the scene. The film was shot in 25 days.

Rated: [R] – Grisly Violence And Gore, Terror, Language & Drug Content
[UNRATED] – More Of The Same
Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy 

Saw III (2006)

C – 108m (Theatrical Cut) / 114m (Unrated Cut) / 121m (Director’s Cut)
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 – Widescreen
Starring: Tobin Bell, Shawnee Smith, Donnie Wahlberg and Franky G.

Jigsaw kidnaps a doctor to keep him alive while he watches his new apprentice put an unlucky guy named Jeff through a brutal test. Brutal and disturbing like the rest but another well–done sequel. 

Trivia: The scene where Jigsaw has brain surgery while being awake was left untouched by the MPAA Board. The filmmakers had argued that it was no different than anything that people could catch in a medical documentary on television. It is reported by producer Daniel J. Heffner the MPAA Board saw this film seven times before it received the: [R] rating. It was given a: [NC–17] prior times to the desired rating on the 7th try. For several weeks before filming, Tobin Bell and Shawnee Smith spent time getting to know each other so that their relationship on screen would be more believable. This was shot in 32 days.

Note: There are three cuts of this film. The Director’s Cut is the preferred cut.
Rated: [R] – Strong Grisly Violence And Gore, Sequences Of Terror And Torture, Nudity & Language
[UNATED] – More Of The Same
Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy 

Saw IV (2007)

C – 93m (Theatrical Cut) / 96m (Unrated Director’s Cut)
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 – Widescreen
Starring: Tobin Bell, Costas Manylor, Scott Patterson, Donnie Wahlberg, Shawnee Smith, James Van Patten and Emmanuelle Vaugier.

Despite Jigsaw’s death, Lt. Rigg is forced to take part in a new game. Smart but lesser continuation of the gruesome series. This entry becomes a bit improbable but is still entertaining.

Trivia: The Tobin Bell body cast used in the autopsy scene took two weeks to be constructed. The autopsy scene was left untouched by the MPAA Board. A coroner was onset at all times during the autopsy scene. The sets were built so that the camera shifting from one scene to another would be practical rather than digital in the editing process. This film was filmed in 32 days.

Rated: [R] – Sequences Of Grisly Bloody Violence And Torture Throughout & Language
[UNRATED] – More Of The Same
Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy

Saw V (2008)

C – 92m (Theatrical Cut) / 95m (Unrated Director’s Cut)
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 – Widescreen
Starring: Tobin Bell, Costas Manylor, Scott Patterson, Donnie Wahlberg, Danny Glover and Shawnee Smith.

A suspicious agent checks into the background of someone recently hailed as a hero, while a group of strangers are put through another Jigsaw inspired game. Contrived and frankly boring entry in the grisly series… It is only with watching because it is part of the series. There is one spot of genus with one of the traps noted in the trivia blow. 

Trivia: Seth’s trap is inspired by Edger Allen Poe’s, The Pit And The Pendulum. 

Rated: [R] – Sequences Of Grisly Bloody Violence And Torture, Language & Brief Nudity
[UNRATED] – More Of The Same
Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy

Saw VI (2009)

C – 90m (Theatrical Cut) / 92m (Unrated Director’s Cut)
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 – Widescreen
Starring: Tobin Bell, Costas Manylor, Shawnee Smith, James Van Patten and Scott Patterson.

The FBI draws closer to a suspect and some insurance agents are put through a game. By far THE BEST of the series. The social commentary on insurance companies catapults this far beyond the rest of the series. It should be noted that this came about around the time of Obamacare. There is no political commentary meant behind that point by this reviewer. It is merely an observation on the timing of the making of and release of the film.

Trivia: This film was banned in Thailand.
Rated: [R] – Sequences Of Grisly Bloody Violence And Torture, & Language
[UNRATED] – More Of The Same
Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy

Saw VII: The Final Chapter (2010)

C – 90m
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 – Widescreen
AKA: Saw VII 3D: The Final Chapter, Saw 3D: The Final Chapter, Jigsaw Puzzle 3D, Saw 3D, Saw VII
Starring: Tobin Bell, Costas Mandylor, Cary Elwes, James Van Patten, Michael Emerson and Franky G.

Jigsaw’s legacy is the subject of a battle and former victims unwisely seek help and hearing from a self–help guru with dark secrets. Fun but routine entry in the series… It would be seven years until the next film.

Trivia: In a Massachusetts branch of Showcase Cinemas this film was accidentally screened instead of the 3D animated film Megaminde (2010), traumatizing the young audience. The MPAA Board gave this film a: [NC–17], rating five times before it finally received it’s: [R], rating.

Rated: [R] – Sequences Of Grisly Bloody Violence And Torture, & Language
Available in 3D and 2D on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy 

Jigsaw (2017) Movie Poster

Jigsaw (2017) Film Review

C. – 91m.
Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1 – Widescreen

A.K.A.: Saw VIII: Jigsaw, Saw: Legacy, Saw VIII, Saw 8

Starring: Tobin Bell.

Dead bodies are showing up around the city and the evidence points to John Kramer / Jigsaw (Tobin Bell), the man who was behind other ghastly murders and has been dead for ten years. Intricate and contrived as always… Not for the squeamish obviously but the fans should like it. 

Trivia: This is the first Saw movie to not have been released in the annual saga of the earlier pictures. It was also the in the series with two directors. Further still it is the first entry in the franchise to use Tobin Bell’s character’s name in the title. It also happens to be the second one shot on digital technology. The First was Saw VII: Saw 3D – The Final Chapter (2010). This is the first film in the series since the first film to not have a death trap in the opening. It also does not feature footage from previous entries.

Rated: [R] – Sequences Of Grisly Bloody Violence And Torture & Language.

Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy.

Thor Series (2011, 2013 & 2017)

Thor (2011)

C. – 115m
Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1 – Widescreen; 3D & 2D
A.K.A.: Thor, God Of Thunder, Manhattan
Dir.: Kenneth Branagh.
Starring: Chris Hemsworth , Sir Anthony Hopkins, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Stellan Skarsgard, Idris Elba, Rene Russo, Stan Lee and Samuel L. Jackson.

Thor is cast out of Asgard due to his arrogance. He must work his way back by learning humility and helping humans. Meanwhile a small group of scientist want to learn about him and his world. A great start to the series of films! Everyone is in top form and the story is rich and full to boot. No complaints!

Trivia: The Hemsworth brothers, Chris and Liam were up against each other for the role of Thor, ultimately Chris Hemsworth won. When Anthony Hopkins and Chris Hemsworth saw each other in costume for the first time Hopkins said, “God, there is no acting required here, is there?” Stan Lee has often said he wanted to play Odin. Since the film was made though, he has stated he was very happy with Sir Anthony Hopkins in the role. And finally the film makes extensive use of actual Norse Mythology.

The preferred viewing format is 3D, though 2D is available.  Please note: This is a Marvel film, stay all the way through the end credits to see all the cut scenes.

Rated: [PG–13] – Sequence Of Intense Sci–Fi Action & Violence
Available on 3D & 2D Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy

Thor: The Dark World (2013)

C. – 112m
Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1 – Widescreen; 3D & 2D
A.K.A.: Thor 2: The Dark World, Thor 2
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Idris Elba, Rene Russo, Stellan Skarsgard, Stan Lee, Benicio Del Toro and Chris Evans.

Thor must rescue Jane from Peril. After The Avengers (2012), this film feels more like Thor 3 rather than Thor 2. There is not much in the way of the story and the CGI is a tad too bountiful. Pacing also appears slower. It is however still entertaining and the actors do their bests with the material handed to them. Worth a watch.

Trivia: Hemsworth improvised the action of Thor hanging his hammer up on a coat hook, 1 hour 23 minutes into the movie. He had been playing with it in between takes. There are several other instances of adlibs or improvisation in the film. “Banana Balls,” being another example.

As with the first film, the preferred viewing format is 3D, though 2D is also available. Note: As this is a Marvel film, stay all the way through the end credits to see all the cut scenes.

Rated: [PG–13] – Sequences Of Intense Sci–Fi Action And Violence, & Some Suggestive Content
Available on 3D & 2D Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy

Thor Ragnarok (2017) Movie Poster

Thor: Ragnarok (2017) Film Review

C. – 130m.

Aspect Ratio: 2.39:1 – Widescreen; 3D & 2D

A.K.A.: Mighty Thor: Battle Royal, Thor 3: Ragnarok, Thor 3

Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Cate Blanchett, Jeff Goldblum, Karl Urban, Mark Ruffalo, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Benedict Cumberbatch, Luke Hemsworth, Sam Neill, Matt Damon and Stan Lee.

An imprisoned Thor finds himself in a Gladiator situation with The Hulk. Can he survive it and save his world from obliteration by Hela? A step up from the previous entry, Thor: The Dark World (2013). Audiences will find a plethora of humor here. There are a couple of slow parts that mar the middle of the film but, as per-usual with Marvel’s films, the film rises above it and ends on a perfect note.

Trivia: A Make A Wish child, who was visiting the set suggested Thor’s line, “A friend from work,” about The Hulk. Additionally, 80% of the dialogue was adlibbed by the cast. And finally, this is the first film in the Marvel Universe that does not have Lou Ferrigno voicing The Hulk, instead it is Mark Ruffalo that you hear.

As With the first two films, the preferred viewing format is 3D, as usual 2D is also available. And yet again, as this is a Marvel film, stay all the way through the end credits to see all the cut scenes.

Rated: [PG–13] – Intense Sequences Of Sci–Fi Violence And Action, & Brief Suggestive Material.

Available on 3D & 2D Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy.

It (1990) & It (2017)

It (1990)

C. – 192m. (Original Cut), 187 (DVD & Blu–ray)
Format: 1.33:1 – Fullscreen & 1.85:1 – Widescreen
A.K.A.: Stephen King’s It
Dir.: Tommy Lee Wallace. Novel by Stephen King.
Starring: Harry Anderson, Dennis Christopher, Richard Masur, Annette O’Toole, Tim Reid, Jonathan Brandis, John Ritter, Richard Thomas, Tim Curry and Olivia Hussey.

A group of school–bullied teens get stalked by a monstrous clown during the summer; years later they reunite as adults and vow to take down the clown who has just reappeared. The film is mild in terms of how everything looks decades on from when it was made but it still boasts of fine performances by the cast, particularly Curry. Worth a watch on a rainy day.

Some trivia: Tim Curry gave such a creepy performance as Pennywise the monstrous clown that everyone avoided him during the production. Years later he was offered a chance to reprise the role in the remake but turned it down. Tim Curry was reluctant to take the role because of a bad experience with heavy makeup in Legend (1985). Upon hearing this, the director minimized the makeup for Curry. Sadly Jonathan Brandis and John Ritter died suddenly in 2003. Brandis committed suicide by hanging himself, while Ritter suffered an unexpected and fatal Aortic Dissection. And finally, on the day that the shoot called for the kids to go into the sewer, it was actually raining – thus saving the filmmakers the trouble of creating fake rain.

Rated: [Unrated] or [R] – Violence & Language.

Out Of Print on VHS and Laserdisc, but Available on DVD and Blu–Ray.

IT (2017) Movie Poster

It (2017)

A.K.A.: Stephen King’s It Chapter 1, Stephen King’s It Part 1 and It: Chapter 1

C. – 135m.
Aspect Ratio: 2.39:1 – Widescreen

Starring: Bill Skarsgard, Sophia Lillis.

A group of teens have a year and change of growing up terrorized by the school bullies and a monstrous clown. It should be noted for those who are not impressed with the film’s ending and feel that there is a massive amount missing from the film, including the ending of the book, that this is just the first half of the story. While a ton of material was left out, there is still (at the time of this writing) a part two pending release. This is a ton darker than the original with much better C.G.I. Perhaps a tad too dark since it features an un–needed incest pedophilia sub–plot. Very well done though and the performances are stellar. Skarsgard’s insane clown is played with gusto and the aid of a plethora of C.G.I. His performance stands out here, as is the performance of Lillis as Beverly!

Some trivia: Skarsgard felt a ton of pressure to play the role of Pennywise to the same flamboyant level as Tim Curry, since Curry’s performance was widely praised in the original 1990 film. Those are really Skarsgard’s eyes that look in different directions in the film, not C.G.I.! The number 27 is often associated with this story; in the film it is mentioned that every 27 years Pennywise returns to Derry; this film was purposefully set to be released 27 years after the original 1990 mini–series aired on TV; the actor Jonathan Brandis, from the original film, died at age 27 (suicide by hanging), and this film was released one month after Bill Skarsgard’s 27th birthday! Skarsgard reportedly trained with a contortionist for his role in the film and yes, he does speak Swedish in the film.

Skarsgard was the fourth actor offered the role of Pennywise. Tim Curry was offered it first as a chance for him to reprise the role, but her turned it down. Then Ben Mendelsohn and Will Poulter were offered the role. The slideshow scene was a nod to Stephen King’s story: The Sun Dog. Chloe Grace Moetz, best known for playing Carrie in the 2013 version of that story, was originally considered for the role of Beverly here but was rejected due to her age when the film finally got around to being shot. The woman that you see in the film, Sophia Lillis, was cast instead. The novel took place in 1957 and 1958, where–as this film takes place in 1988 and 1989. The film, believe it or not, was in pre–production for seven years before the film even started shooting. And finally, the film’s shooting wrapped (finished) one day before Stephen King (the author of the book) turned 69 years old – 9/20/2016 (King’s birthday being 9/21/1947).   

A personal note: When I saw this it was 9/9/2017 with Thomas Sawyer and Cory Fairfield. It was part of a celebration of my 30th birthday. We went to Chunky’s Cinema Pub in Nashua, NH and had drinks and watched the film. The boys had food too. The theater had professional people dressed in creepy clown masks stalking around the theater scaring the hell out of patrons who were there in droves to see the film. Mostly they scared the women of the crowds.      

Rated: [R] – Violence / Horror, Scary Images, & Language

Available On 4K Blu–ray, Blu–ray, DVD and Digital Copy. 

Beauty and The Beast (1991 & 2017) Film Review by Nate Taves

Movie Artwork for Beauty and The Beast (1991)

Beauty And The Beast (1991)

C. – 84m. (Original Theatrical Cut) / 91m. (Special Edition)
Aspect Ratio: 2.70:1 – Widescreen – IMAX Special Edition Release
1.85:1 – Widescreen – Intended
1.78:1 – Widescreen – Blu–ray 3D & 2D
1.66:1 – Widescreen – Original Negative
1.50:1 – Widescreen – IMAX Release – Animated
A.K.A.: Beauty And The Beast: Special Edition and Beauty And The Beast: 3D

Starring: Robby Benson, Jesse Corti, Angela Lansbury, Jerry Orbach, Bradley Pierce, David Ogden Stiers, Brian Cummings and Frank Welker.

A beautiful young woman named Belle takes her father’s place as captive to a Prince who is under a spell that rendered him a beast. “A tale as old as time,” gets an animated facelift from the Disney Studio and it pays off wonderfully. The visuals are dazzling, particularly in 3D and the music will make one’s heart swell with emotion. A must watch children’s classic! Academy Award Winner: Best Original Score & Best Original Song: “Beauty And The Beast”.

Trivia: It took the Disney studio three tries before they were able to make a go of making this film. Many scenes were storyboarded but were not animated. Angela Lansbury, Mrs. Potts, thought another character should sing ”Beauty And The Best” but made a recording of the song ,“just in case,” as viewers know, the recording made it into the film. Julie Andrews was originally considered for the role of Mrs. Potts before it was offered to Angela Lansbury. The last part of the Cogsworth’s line, “Flowers, Chocolates, and promises you don’t intend to keep…” was adlibbed by David Ogden Stiers. And finally: Jackie Chan did the singing and voice work for Beast in the Chinese Mandarin dub of the film.

Rated: [G]

Out Of Print on VHS, but Available on 3D / 2D Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy.

Beauty and The Beast (2017) Movie Poster

Beauty and The Beast (2017)

C. – 129m
Aspect Ratio: 2.39:1 – Widescreen (Standard Release) / 1.90:1 – Widescreen (IMAX); 3D & 2D. – Live Action

Screenplay By: Stephen Chbosky.

Starring: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evens, Josh Gad, Kevin Kline, Ewan McGregor, Sir Ian McKellen, Emma Thompson and Stanley Tucci.

Beauty, Belle (Emma Watson) takes her father’s (Kevin Kline) place as the prisoner of the Beast (Dan Stevens). Can true love form between the captor and his prisoner so the spell will be broken? If you have seen any other version of this story, particularly the original Disney animated film version, you know it can and does form. Like the aforementioned animated classic this is an equal in terms of hitting all the right notes. Unfortunately the songs being padded does drag the film down a notch from the animated classic’s rating. It is however still worth a watch and should please adults and children alike.

Trivia: Sir Ian McKellen was originally offered the part of Cogsworth in the original Disney Beauty And The Beast (1991), but turned it down. Ryan Gosling was offered the role of Beast but turned it down to be in La La Land (2016) with Emma Stone, who won an Academy Award for Best Actress for it. Emma Watson became friends with screenwriter Stephen Chbosky while making The Perks Of Being A Wallflower (2012) and brought him on to work the script after Guillermo Del Toro exited the project as writer and director. And finally: Emma Watson said she was bored during the filming of the, “Be Our Guest,” scene. According to her, the crew would tell her jokes to keep her entertained and elicit genuine giggles that could be used as reactions in the film.

Rated: [PG] – Some Action Violence, Peril & Frightening Images.

Released theatrically in 3D & 2D. Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy (in 2D only).    

Bad Moms (2016) & A Bad Moms Christmas (2017)

Bad Moms (2016)

C. – 100m
Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1 – Widescreen
Starring: Mila Kunis, Kathryn Hahn, Kristen Bell, Christina Applegate, Jada Pinkett Smith, Clark Duke, Megan Ferguson, Wanda Sykes & Martha Stewart.

Three overworked and underappreciated moms join forces for a long overdue trip of fun, freedom and comedic self-indulgence. Biting satire that is also a raunchy comedy. How could you go wrong with this cast? You can’t. There is surprisingly more of a story here than meets the eye while viewing the trailer. Everyone is in top form. Followed by: A Bad Moms Christmas (2017). 

Trivia: Mila Kunis was pregnant with her child while filming this movie and the wedding ring you see in the film is her real-life wedding ring. Although the film was set in Chicago, Illinois, it was filmed in New Orleans, Louisiana.  And finally: This film’s release date, July 29, 2016, has been labeled Bad Mother’s Day.

Rated: [R] – Sexual Material, Full Frontal Nudity, Language Throughout, & Drug And Alcohol Content.

Available on Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy.  

A Bad Moms Christmas Movie Poster

A Bad Moms Christmas (2017) Film Review

C. – 104m.
A.K.A.: Bad Moms Christmas and Bad Moms 2

Starring Mila Kunis, Kristin Bell, Justin Hartley, Kathryn Hahn, Susan Sarandon, Christine Baranski, Wanda Sykes, and Peter Gallagher.

The same three underappreciated and overworked mothers from Bad Moms (2016) try to give their families the best Christmas possible. To make matters worse: They must entertain their moms in the process. Entertaining sequel to Bad Moms (2016) features a game cast and a ton of sexual humor. It lacks the edge that the first one had, but why quibble about that when everything else works?

Trivia: This is the first time Mila Kunis has made a sequel film.

Rated: [R] – Crude Sexual Content And Language Throughout & Some Drug use.

Available on 4K Blu–ray, Blu–ray, DVD & Digital Copy.