Superman (2025) Review

I don't think its too big to say that this is one of the biggest and most important films to come out in recent memory as a whole Studio really is bargaining on it to launch their new superhero universe that DC hope can finally rival their more successful rival Marvel Studios. I had the chance to see Superman on Friday and I wanted to reflect on the film and now here is my review for the film. The premise of the film sees Superman attempt to prove that he is on Earth for Truth & Justice when Lex Luthor attempts to take him down by any means necessary. 

Main Character

David Corenswet takes over the role as The Man of Steel and he was amazing in this film and truly encapsulates what I imagine Superman to be. He is the most natural successor to Christopher Reeve and he balances the cheesy nature of the character with the more serious and darker elements of the character. I really enjoyed this portrayal of Superman and Cornswet really nailed it here. 

Supporting Characters

Rachel Brosnahan plays Lois Lane and I thought she was also fantastic here. Her chemistry with Corenswet is great and I really believed in their relationship and their dynamic. Though she isn't the main part of the film she gets her time to show her journalistic prowess and she is great in the role.

Nicholas Hoult plays Lex Luthor and honestly this is probably my favourite depiction of the character. Hoult is amazing throughout and you really sense the hatred that he has for Superman and it doesn't come across as silly because of the awesome performance of Hoult. 

We also get The Justice Gang of Mr Terrific played by Edi Gathegi, Green Lantern played by Nathan Fillion and Hawkgirl played by Isabela Merced. They actually played a larger role then I thought they would. I thought Hawkgirl was cool but she has the least to do out of the three. Terrific & Lantern are real standouts here and are amazing additions to the film, this is the best versions of these characters that we have ever seen and they added way more here then I expected. 

This film has a lot of other smaller characters who all do great jobs, especially Pruitt Taylor Vance as Pa Kent who really delivers on his small role here to make it truly memorable. 

Story

The film makes some interesting choices in terms of Superman's story and they were all welcomed by me as I really enjoyed the story. It really focuses on the difference between Superman's Alien nature and his humanity and it does a great job at it. Lex as an antagonist really adds to this story and it just highlights that Superman may be god like but he has issues just like other people. It is a really satisfying narrative and I truly liked it. 

Script

I thought the film was really well written. This film isn't too cheesy but has some really funny moments in it that fits with the idea of the film. It also knows when it can pull on the heart strings and surprisingly it equally does well at this with some great character moments. 

Style

This film has some really entertaining action sequences. Especially the ones involving Superman, Mr Terrific & Green Lantern with some great variety. My only complaint, is that some of the actions CGI isn't that great and really shows the CGI. Also there is a slight pacing issue with the film, it takes a while to get going and drags a small bit in the middle but I am really picking at things now. 

Overall

Overall, Superman is a fantastic Super hero film that had me smiling from ear to ear while I watched it. I love the characters and the universe that James Gunn has built here. It really is worth a watch and is a fantastic start to this universe and it is now down to DC to keep this going. 

Rating - 9/10

Thunderbolts* (2025) Review

With The MCU now into its 17th year we are getting new projects and new ideas and the newest of those is Thunderbolts* I saw the film today and here is my review. The premise of the film sees a group of dangerous operatives brought together in order to survive and potentially make themselves better. 

Main Character

Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova has become a much loved character in supporting roles but here she is given the real spotlight and is easily the main character here. She is given lots of the character development and the themes of the film really go through her. Pugh is fantastic and really deserved this opportunity and Yelena is a great lead character. 

Supporting Characters

Sebastian Stan as Bucky is the most experienced MCU actor here and he does a good job. It takes a while for him to actually get involved with the group but he becomes the driving force for the group and it was cool seeing Bucky in this leadership role. 

David Harbour is back as Red Guardian and he was a true joy here. He is clearly the comic relief character but he really embraces it and has so much fun. The relationship between Yelena and him is at the forefront of the film and Harbour adds plenty to that. 

Wyatt Russell reprises his role as John Walker and he was a fun addition here. He has great chemistry with the rest of the cast and I just enjoy him in this role. They kind of try to make you care about him but it doesn't really work and he is mostly just an entertaining loudmouth. 

Lewis Pullman plays Bob and he is also great. The trailers pretty much spoiled his role in the film but the film does a mostly good job in making you care about him and the struggles that he goes through and Pullman does his best with the material. 

Hannah John-Kamen plays Ghost again after her somewhat forgettable appearance in Ant-Man and The Wasp and although she does a good job, Ghost really gets put into the background as the film progresses and once again she just isn't given enough to do. 

Story

The story does a good job of bringing these dangerous and unlikeable people together and getting them to work together to bring the best out of each other. It really handles Yelena's character well and the theme of redemption being important for these characters. However, this film makes some weak creative decisions and the scenes between Val and Mel felt pointless and really drove down the overall feel of the film. Its ending also feels a bit rushed and I felt like there was more that they could have done with it. 

Script

The script is good. I laughed quite a bit throughout the film which means it is a return to form for MCU writers. I also believed in the emotional scenes and the development that the characters are going through. For a big superhero film it does an effective job at a character study and the emotional side of these people. 

Style

The film looks great, there are some great action scenes and they take advantage of having all these dangerous people who have different abilities to best effect. The film is also paced well and it kind of flew by but in a good way as I was never bored. 

Overall

Overall, Thunderbolts* is a real return to form for The Marvel Cinematic Universe. I really enjoyed this collection of characters and I think some of the more mature tones really worked and I would definitely recommend a watch. 

Rating - 9/10

Joker (2019) Review

In a few hours I am finally going to see Joker sequel, despite its bad reviews so I decided to go back and watch the first film and here is my review for Joker. The premise of the film sees a failed stand up comedian attempt to survive in a poor society that will cause him to lose control. 

Main Character

Joaquin Phoenix plays Arthur Fleck and he is truly amazing here and he was well deserved to win the Oscar for Best Actor for this role. He creates so much sympathy for Arthur that you feel so sorry for him and even slightly root for him in this twisted role. His development and characterisation is fantastic and sees him transform into this iconic character. 

Supporting Characters

Robert De Niro plays Murray Franklin who is a talk show host in Gotham and he is great here. It is really nice to see that when he truly cares and has motivation that De Niro can still deliver really strong performances and he delivers in the scenes that he is in. 

Zazie Beetz plays Sophie who is a neighbour to Arthur and I thought she was good in the film, she doesn't have loads of screen time but her chemistry with Phoenix is great and I really liked how her character impacted the plot. 

Frances Conroy plays Penny Fleck and she is great here, she plays Arthur's mother and the whole thing is a bit of a crazy dynamic and she drives into that and it works. As the film progresses we learn more about her and how she affects Arthur. 

Brett Cullen plays Thomas Wayne and the film does a good job in having his story tie into the main plot and the character of Arthur. It doesn't feel shoehorned in and I thought it was well done with an interesting ending. 

Story

This film details a man who is truly lost and alone, as things get worse for Arthur he starts to go down a really dark path and it is hard to see. We see this evolution from Arthur Fleck to the Joker and I like how it affected all the characters in the film and the city of Gotham as a whole. This films story is really effective and is great. 

Script

The film is really well written, you feel so much for Arthur Fleck and want to see him succeed, just not in the way that he acts. The dramatic dialogue and intentionally not funny dialogue is really well written and fleshes out this character. 

Style

This film nails its style and shows Gotham in real disarray and that links to the personal plight of the main character. The music by Hildur Guðnadóttir is sensational and really fits the character and the difficulties that he is suffering. This films only issue is that it has a slight pacing issue in the 2nd act and I found myself a little bit bored but it does pick back up in the final act. 

Overall

Overall, Joker is a fantastic film that is a true character study. It isn't your traditional comic book film and isn't one for an often re-watch but it is one for an in depth character study and a film abut the true plight of an individual. 

Rating - 9/10

Sherlock Holmes (2009) Review

On my flight back from Malaysia, the last film that I decided to watch was Sherlock Holmes, I have seen this film a few times and was looking forward to seeing it again so is here my review for the film. The premise of the film sees Sherlock Holmes attempt to stop a sinister plot from destroying London at its core. 

Main Character

Robert Downey Jr plays the titular character and he is fantastic in the role. You really see his intelligence and the way his mind works and I thought Downey really nailed the feel of an investigator that Holmes clearly is. It is hard to take your eyes off of him on screen and that is great to see in this film. 

Supporting Characters

Jude Law plays Doctor Watson and he is really great too. The chemistry between him and Downey is off the charts and they just blend incredibly well and it is one of the real driving forces of the film and his performance drives that. 

Rachel McAdams plays Irene Adler and she is a lot of fun here. She is a very quick witted character and she also had great chemistry with Downey. The inclusion of her character is mainly to set up the sequel but she is fun to watch. 

Mark Strong plays the villain Lord Blackwood and though the character isn't particularly interesting Strong does enough to deliver a fun performance and makes him the appropriate adversary for Holmes in this film. 

Kelly Reilly plays Mary Morstan who is Watson's Fiancé and even though she isn't in the film a huge amount but she is a fun addition and the constant arguing with Holmes is pretty entertaining. 

Story

The story is really interesting, it is a genuine mystery and watching Holmes and Watson try to figure it out with all the twists and turns is interesting. There is also clearly a development in their partnership and that grows as the film progresses, the villains motivation isn't the best but the way the film explains it makes it sound really cool and interesting. 

Script

The script has some really quick and charming dialogue. The characters interact really well and the dialogue makes them more interesting. Though I will say that this film does fall short on its dramatic moments and dialogue, I never felt fear for the characters or really care about them being in peril even though the film does try. 

Style

I really liked the visual style of this film, old school London looks really great and it just feels like a world that director Guy Ritchie would create and it very much fit this interpretation of Sherlock Holmes. The action scenes were also really good, they use some unique techniques to explain the action and I really liked it. 

Overall

Overall, Sherlock Holmes is a fantastic film that is a really fun watch. The cast do a great job and I loved the investigative nature of the film. Definitely give this film a go and I am pretty sure you will really enjoy it like I do.

Rating - 9/10

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023) Review

After many years, we have made it to the end of the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy with Volume 3. I have now seen it and here is my review for the film. The premise of the film sees the Guardians trying to recover from the death of Gamora, when they have to work together to save a member of the team and try to save the world once again. 

Main Character

After the events of Avengers: Infinity War Starlord played by Chris Pratt was the most hated character in the MCU. But I think the time has come for people to move on from that and appreciate how good Pratt is in the role. His character sees really development in this film and I think the character was balanced with his humour and some real seriousness that I think was truly vital and effective. 

This is the first Guardians film where I see another member of the cast as the main character and that is Rocket voiced by Bradley Cooper. To be honest, he is the emotional depth of this entire film, by examining his past it adds way more depth to the character and I really cared about how he was treated here. 

Supporting Characters

Chuckwudi Iwuji plays the High Evolutionary and he is the best villain in this trilogy. He is so evil and creepy to watch, he has the presence that is required for this character and I really liked seeing how his character comes across and was a great villain for the protagonists. 

Karen Gillan as Nebula has had one of the best character arcs in the entire MCU. For me, this is her best performance in this role. There has been a clear progression from the villain she originally was and I loved her chemistry with the other members of the team. It is clear that her time with The Avengers has raised her leadership and it is a role that aids the characters development. 

Zoe Saldana is back as Gamora and as mentioned she is playing the same version of Gamora that we met during the events of Avengers: Endgame. She is definitely harsher here then she was in the previous films but it does work, there is an uneasy relationship between her and the Guardians but it does progress well. 

The rest of the Guardians are great. Drax, Mantis & Groot all have amazing moments here with Mantis in particular being the best she has ever been in any of the films. The crew are at their best here and it really feels for the first time that this is a family working together. 

Story 

The story is really well written. the characters development is at the foreront of the story telling and that is nailed pretty much perfectly. As I mentioned above, this is the first film where the crew really feel like a family and that is presented really well. I cared about the stakes that were provided and the ending was great. But there is one problem and that is the story for one character and it really annoyed me as they were one of the things I was excited about. I won't say who it is but people can probably work out who and I thought it wasn't exactly well handled here. 

Script

The Guardians of the Galaxy films have been mainly known for their comedic writing and that is still here and it is pretty funny. But the main strength of the film is the emotional and dramatic moments and dialogue. They are fantastically written and I really cared about all of the members of the group. 

Style 

The Style of the film looks great, the effects both practical and CGI are superb and feel worthy of the big screen. The action scenes are really exciting and again seeing the team together is really effective. The film is quite long, but it was paced really well and I was never bored at any points throughout. 

Overall

Overall, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is a fantastic film that brings back the stronger films of the MCU. It raises the bar and hopefully this level of film is the standard that is going to be set for the future films in the franchise. 

Rating - 9/10

 Prey (2022) Review

Prey has been getting plenty of rave reviews and today I decided to sit down and watch the film and here is my review for it. The premise of the film is set in the same world as the Predator franchise and sees a young girl try and protect her tribe against The Predator. 

Main Character

Amber Midthunder plays Naru and she does a really great job, she represents her Comanche tribe and she is a really easy character to root for. She goes through a real journey throughout this film and when she eventually clashes against The Predator it is really entertaining to watch. 

Supporting Characters

It is really cool to see that there was an actual person playing The Predator and that it wasn't just CGI. Dane DiLiegro plays the role and this is a fantastic rendition of the character as by now we know The Predators motivation so just seeing him in action is brilliant and a great job is done here. The rest of The Comanche tribe do a really good job too despite their much smaller roles, the main one being Dakota Beavers as her brother who plays an effective role. 

Story 

The story is really good, I really like the time period that it is set in and seeing this low technology tribe having to compete with the really high tech Predator brings some great concepts. A true development of the main character too, this franchise has overcomplicated things in the past and this film keeps it simple. But my one issue is something that occurs in the last act and kind of comes out of nowhere, I won't go into details because of the spoiler nature of this thing. 

Script

There isn't actually that much dialogue in this film but I thought it was all well handled, with sprinklings of drama and humour. The film is well written and goes for the less is more approach which I really enjoyed. 

Style

The film doesn't hold back, there are some brutal action scenes and it is fantastic to watch without it feeling cheap and just horror movie tropes. The film clocks in at around 90 mins and the pacing is brilliant, films don't need to be that long and this film proves that for sure. 

Overall

Overall, Prey is a fantastic film that literally came out of nowhere. This is going to be a sleeper hit for this year and hopefully this signals a great new future for The Predator as a franchise. 

Rating - 9/10

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022) Review

After a long wait, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness has finally come to cinemas and today and I have watched it and here is my review for what was my most anticipated film of 2022. The premise of the film sees after the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home. Stephen Strange has to deal with more misgivings with the Multiverse that could lead to major ramifications. 

Main Character

Benedict Cumberbatch is once again back as Dr Stephen Strange and he is fantastic in the role. The film does a really good job of expanding his character, as in the recent team up films we haven't had a huge chance to do that. This film continues his character journey from the original film and Cumberbatch absolutely nails it. 

Supporting Characters

After WandaVision I truly realised just how great Elisabeth Olsen is as Wanda Maximoff and she shines here. Her character is given real shine here and her development is probably my favourite part of the film and I am glad it is given the time and justice for the character and actress. Benedict Wong gets more screen time as Wong and he is actually one of the most underrated characters in the MCU and I love the dynamic between him and Cumberbatch as they have developed into one of my favourite partnerships and this is the most we have seen of it. Xochitl Gomez plays America Chavez and she is a fun character, I don't really know anything about her character in the comics but she was a well fleshed out character here. Again the dynamic between her and Strange is well realised and feels like a friendship that we can care about. Rachel McAdams is back as Christine Palmer and she is better realised here then she was in the previous film and I liked how her character was used throughout the film. 

Story 

The story is good, this film does plenty of good character work and the main characters progress nicely and it really helps with the plot. You understand where they are all coming from and how things progress feels fluid. But, this film doesn't hit all the points, there are things from the previous film that are seemingly ignored and I understand it couldn't quite fit here but I was disappointed that it was clearly ignored. Also one character's ending didn't quite work for me and I think it could have been handled a bit better. 

Script 

The script is really good, the mix of humour and drama is really well realised. This film actually feels quite unique considering it is in the MCU but the writing is still really clever and it just suits this film. 

Style 

The film looks amazing, he film doesn't jump all over the place with its aspect ratio this time which is great. The CGI looks amazing and the tone is so interesting. This is the closest the MCU will ever get to a horror film and these elements feel really unique to a Marvel film and that made it really stand out to me. It is actually paced really well, which I was a little worried about and despite a lot going on it manages to all link up well. 

Overall

Overall, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is a fantastic film, you have to have watched the first Doctor Strange and WandaVision to truly appreciate it but this unique and entertaining film is definitely worth the watch. 

Rating - 9/10

Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) Review

With No Way Home coming out tomorrow, it is time to watch the first two solo films of this version of Spider-Man and that starts with Homecoming and here is my review for it. The premise of the film sees Peter Parker struggling with his lack of challenge as Spider-Man when he must go against a real threat - The Vulture. 

Main Character

Tom Holland made his debut as Peter Parker/Spider-Man in Captain America: Civil War to great acclaim and in his first solo film he knocks it out of the park again. He really nails that boyish charm, he actually comes across as a real teenager and that innocence really helps build up the character and really helps with his portrayal as Spider-Man. You really feel like this is a teenager trying to please his idol and use his powers for good but not understanding the consequences. 

Supporting Characters 

Michael Keaton plays Adrian Toomes/The Vulture and he is so good as the villain here. He looks intimidating in The Vulture costume but is a really interesting character that you do have some sympathy for him. He also gives a real intense performance as just a guy and the scenes that he and Holland have are really effective. Marisa Tomei plays Aunt May and she is great, the dynamic between her and Holland feels incredibly real like a real mother/son relationship which is more effective then the other dynamics in the past. Robert Downey Jnr reprises his role as Tony Stark which lets face it he could play in his sleep. He isn't in the film much but it is a really vital role and I will never get tired of the dynamic between Iron Man and Spider-Man on screen. Jacob Batalon plays Ned and I really like the friendship between him and Peter. Having a friend linked to both Peter and Spider-Man was a really great idea and allows for more banter then maybe previous films have had. 

Story 

The story is really good, it skips over the whole origin story and really focuses on Peter wanting to transition into a high level super hero while dealing with normal school life. The film balances this well, the schools scenes aren't boring and then obviously the superhero stuff is really effective and exciting. 

Script

The film is really funny, it is easily the funniest Spider-Man film up to this point. The banter flows really naturally and Holland is clearly a natural in the role. The drama is also really great, you see this young man really develop as both a person and a superhero throughout. 

Style 

The film looks great, both Spider-Man and Vulture have great costumes and their action scenes are fun to watch. The tone is really well done and the balance between humour and drama is pretty much perfect with it being a fun watch. But my only issue is a bit of the pacing, the 2nd act falls a little flat for me, it picks back up for the finale but I just can't give this my highest score because of the slight lull in the film. 

Overall

Overall, Spider-Man: Homecoming is a fantastic film that does such a great job of giving this new Spider-Man the spotlight. This is a film for veteran fans of the character and new ones that rivals the best the character has seen. 

Rating - 9/10

Spider-Man 2 (2004) Review

Next in my Spider-Man Review series comes Spider-Man 2 and I re-watched it today and here is my review for it. The premise of the film is set 2 years after the first and sees Peter Parker struggling in balancing his life when a new threat comes to New York. 

Main Character

Tobey Maguire is great as both Peter Parker & Spider-Man. I actually think he is better in this film then he was in the original, his character goes through a real arc as both Parker and Spider-Man and that can sometimes be a real difficult thing to balance in a film like this. He is still to this day known for his portrayal of the character and that is due to his great work, I think especially in this film. 

Supporting Characters 

Alfred Molina plays Dr Otto Octavius and he is fabulous in this film, as Doctor Octopus he is one of the better comic book villains we have seen on screen. He also has a real character arc and Molina really cares about this performance which ranks him up and easily raises this overall film higher up. James Franco gets a bigger role in the film and I actually liked the way the film took Harry Osbourne, his lust to get revenge on Spider-Man is well handled and saw him through his own story in the film. Kirsten Dunst is back as MJ and again I thought she was fine, I felt like the dynamic between her and Maguire was better in this film and I thought she was better written though not perfect and I will give her the benefit of the doubt here. A real scene stealer is JK Simmons as J. Jonah Jameson, they give him more to do in this film and he is amazing, I couldn't stop laughing watching him and as I said in my previous review he is one of the best castings ever made. 

Story   

The story is really effective in this film and that is because it takes more care with its characters and focuses less on the whole relationship dynamic on the film. It balances Spider-Man & Peter Parker really well and characters like Harry & Doc Ock are really given interesting arcs that get you invested in the film. It balances the narrative well and I really was invested in pretty much everything, even the not amazing romance. 

Script 

The script is also better in this film, it isn't as cheesy as the previous. The drama is interesting, with the characters written better. I also found myself laughing more watching this film and that is a credit on the balance that is achieved with this film. 

Style 

The action scenes are really great, I mean the train sequence alone is one of the greatest comic book action sequences ever made. Seeing Doctor Octopus and Spider-Man clash is really exciting and feels completely different from the action scenes in the previous film. But this film has one issue and that is with tone, it is a bit all over the place, with dark moments and really cheesy moments. It isn't the biggest issue in the world but it is here and holds it back from getting my top score. 

Overall

Overall, Spider-Man 2 is a fantastic film. It raises the stakes and delivers on a great superhero action film that should be seen. 

Rating - 9/10

Casino Royale (2006) Review

With No Time To Die finally set to hit cinemas in a few weeks, I thought it was time to go back and watch the other Daniel Craig Bond films and that starts with Casino Royale and here is my review for it. The premise of the film sees a newly minted 007 have to win a high level poker game in order to stop a criminal funding terrorism. 

Main Character

This was Daniel Craig's first time in the role and I thought he did a fantastic job as James Bond in the film. He is super intense and basically plays a cold hearted killer, but it really works and Craig nails this action machine that easily makes him the deadliest Bond and one that fits the modern age for sure. When he needs to put the charm on he does a good job and I thought the combination of the two really worked for the role that was needed here. 

Supporting Characters

Eva Green plays Vesper and she is truly brilliant, for years we have seen Bond Girls be damsels that are submissive to Bond but that isn't the case here. She matches Bond for smarts and intelligence with her being her own character that has development and I really liked how the two of them progress throughout the film. Mads Mikkelsen plays Le Chiffre our villain here and he is also great, this is a desperate man who feels pretty human despite of the terrible things he does and I really liked how this bought him to Bond. Judi Dench reprises her role as M and she is just great, I really like her and Craig's dynamic and she feels like a mum who is pushing her son but gets frustrated all of the time and it works well here. Giancarlo Giannini and Jeffrey Wright both have roles here and are effective despite their limited screen time. 

Story  

The story is really good, seeing this relatively new 007 is fascinating and it feels like this world is updated and is done really well. The stakes are really high and the scenes at the poker table are so effective and tension building with great characters throughout. Literally my only issue is that I feel like the film goes on for too long. The final 20 mins feel unnecessary and for me could have been cut and used as the start too the sequel and would have been much more effective. 

Script

The script is really good, the mix of drama and humour is really well done and due to Craig's charisma it is really effective but it allows him to build relationships with the other characters and create an interesting journey for us to watch. 

Style 

The action is fantastic, this action is brutal and has some of the best stuntwork that you will ever see in a film. This film has one of the best parkour chase and car crash scenes that I have ever seen and credit has to be given to the crew to really make this action seem less silly and way more intense and destructive. 

Overall

Overall, Casino Royale is a fantastic film. It stands out as a top level Bond film but also a top level film in general and if you haven't seen it then you should as if you like action this is the one for you. 

Rating - 9/10

The Suicide Squad (2021) Review 

At the beginning of the year The Suicide Squad was my most anticipated film of 2021 and last night I finally got the chance to watch it and here is my review for it. The premise of the film sees a group of super villains bought together to take down a new intergalactic threat. 

Main Character

Idris Elba is given the chance to be a lead character here as Bloodsport and he is fantastic. His comedic timing is actually very good, and he has plenty of heartfelt moments and is really effective as a character. There is an argument that his character is incredibly similar to Deadshot from the previous film but I feel Elba manages to add enough to make this character his own. 

Supporting Characters

This film has one of the biggest casts ever put on film but some play larger roles then others and without spoiling things I will talk about them. John Cena makes his debut as Peacemaker and he was a real highlight of the film for me, his character is so interesting and Cena manages to use his natural charisma to make this a memorable character showing that given the right material he can deliver. Margot Robbie is back as Harley Quinn and what is there to say, she was literally born to play this role and brings the character to life so well. There are some things involving her character I wasn't a huge fan of but there is no denying how great Robbie is in the role. The real breakout star for the film though is Daniela Melchior as Ratcatcher 2, she bring so much heart and emotion to the role and considering that she is one of the least known comic book characters ever, she really resonates with the audience and I think we will see much more from this actress in the future. Joel Kinnaman and Viola Davis are back as Rick Flag and Amanda Waller from the previous Suicide Squad film and they are much improved here. Flag is actually an interesting and well realised character and Waller is the intimidating boss that she really should be. We also have our big CGI character in King Shark voiced by Sylvester Stallone and he is so cool to watch in action and there is also some heart towards this guy and he will probably be one that people will talk about coming out of the film. 

Story 

The story is decent, the chemistry between the team is so much better then the previous film and the unique and distinctive personalities of each squad member does shine and provide a great experience. The task that they are given is fun enough but it is these characters and the outrageous circumstances that they are put in that rise it above. However, this film does have some story issues, mainly what they do with Harley Quinn in the first and mostly second act, she is on her own and it feels a bit out of place and a slower placed part of the film. Also there is some side plot involving a corrupt government and resistance that doesn't really do much for the film and feels like another not important element of the plot. 

Script

The script is really good, it has that James Gunn directed wicked humour. With the more mature script it allows way more creative freedom and the majority of the characters are pretty funny. Some of the jokes feel a bit repetitive but I can't deny that I laughed pretty consistently throughout the film. The drama also works, I ended up caring about this group of bad guys and I think the film does an effective job of giving you reasons to care. 

Style

The style of the film has some really great and entertaining action sequences. This film has the violence and gore that is appropriate for a film called The Suicide Squad. The characters get there own big set pieces and the action is probably the best part of this really well paced out film. 

Overall

Overall, The Suicide Squad is a fantastic film that finally delivers a film worthy of the licence. This film is such an entertaining watch that all comic book fans have to watch it and others will probably enjoy it too. 

Rating - 9/10

Sound of Metal (2021) Review

For a long time now I have heard great things about Sound of Metal and with 6 Oscar nominations the hype intensified. But due to the Coronavirus it has only just come to Amazon and I watched it this morning and here is my review for it. The premise of the film sees a drummer's life changed when he starts to lose his hearing. 

Main Character

Riz Ahmed has always been an actor I have liked but I never saw this performance coming as he is absolutely amazing in this role. This is easily the best performance of his career and he truly deserves all the praise that is coming his way. You really see the tragedy of his character as he starts to lose his hearing and you feel a connection with him here and the real life changing journey that he has to go through in the film. 

Supporting Characters

Olivia Cooke plays his girlfriend in the film and she is also really good, there relationship is really well presented and you see how they care for each other and react to the situation that he has been put in. She isn't in the film a huge amount but she plays a very key role and she realises that very well indeed. Paul Raci plays a sort of mentor figure to Ahmed and he is also fantastic which is crazy because he hasn't really acted that much over the last 10 years. You can see this is a film and character that was important to him and he gives it his all having an interesting and great chemistry with Ahmed that carries a large chunk of the film. Lauren Ridloff and Mathieu Almaric have small roles and are both good, with Ridloff probably being the most high profile deaf actress that there is, her presence felt appropriate and added some real depth to the project here. 

Story 

The story is really good, if you want to watch this film for loads of cool music scenes then you are going to be disappointed. This isn't a film about music, it is a story about one mans journey and how a life changing experience affects him and the others around him and it does an amazing job of that. Riz Ahmed sells it so well and you really see his journey play out and you care so much with an ending that is equally thought provoking and rewarding in its nature. 

Script

The script is really great, the drama is really well presented and handled differently to what you expect from movies with a serious subject matter in there. There are also some nice bits of humour that adds some levity to the whole film and what is going on. Also the film has plenty of sign language and I really like how it was handled and made it something that an audience member such as me would be interested in learning. 

Style 

The style is good but mainly the sound design which is incredible. The film does an amazing job of making you feel like you are going through this crisis with Ruben our lead character. The lack of sound and ability to hear other characters is equally uncomfortable and tragic but adds so much depth to the characters and the film. But literally the only thing holding this film back from a perfect score is the pacing, it just drags its heels in at times and the subject is interesting enough but I think a slightly quicker pace at times would have really helped. 

Overall

Overall, Sound of Metal is a fantastic film that everybody should see. It's also amazing that this is a directorial debut by Darius Marder so expect a big future from him. This film has to be in contention to win the Oscar categories its in and deserves the two hours it takes to watch. 

Rating - 9/10  

Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021) Review

After 4 years, a social media campaign and countless trailers we finally have Zack Snyder's Justice League in all of its 4 hour glory. It is crazy that a social media campaign really convinced Warner Bros to release this film and I am glad after his personal tragedy that Zack Snyder got the chance to make this film they way he wanted. I watched the film today and here is my review for it. The premise of the film sees a group of people with remarkable abilities coming together in order to save the world from an ancient evil. 

Main Character

I have always said that I really like Ben Affleck as Batman and I think he is great here. He is back to being a more serious character but you see more clearly here how the character has progressed since the events of Batman V Superman and Affleck does that well. He isn't given a real standout action scene but he is given a consistent amount of decent action and Affleck still has the physicality of Batman to make that seem realistic despite being the only member of the team without powers. Gal Gadot is back as Wonder Woman and I think anybody disappointed by Wonder Woman 1984 will be very happy to see her being a real star here. Gadot is a real glue that holds the heroes together and she does it really well and she really shines in the action scenes, she is the main one who shines in the action scenes and that is a real highlight. 

Supporting Characters

In the original version of Justice League, I thought Ray Fisher did a decent job as Victor Stone/Cyborg but he is so much better here and is easily the best character in the film. He is the real heart of the film and we learn so much more about Victor and the pain that he has and continues to go through in his new form. His role is larger and provides some real depth and delving into his personal life does a great job in telling his narrative. Ezra Miller is Barry Allen/The Flash and he is a fun member of the cast, he is clearly the comic relief of the film but he never becomes too much and unfunny, he has his serious moments but he works well as part of the group and is a nice addition. Jason Momoa is back as Aquaman and he is also a lot of fun here, we get a bit more of his backstory and it does work better here and make him feel like he has some development that links to his solo film. Henry Cavill is also back as Superman and he is okay, honestly he isn't in this film that much but he has some really standout moments and though he is less charming then he was in the theatrical cut he is still good here. The real surprise though is Ciaran Hinds as Steppenwolf. In the theatrical cut he was such a dull villain but here is a terrifying physical presence that has an interesting character arc and he was a great opposition for the Justice League here. 

Story 

The overall story isn't too different to the theatrical cut but it is handled much better here. The characters are just given way more development time here and it does make you care about them and the way they develop as a group. The film has a much larger scale and for the most part it does work, it doesn't feel too shoehorned in and fits the overall feel of the film and what could have been the future of the DCEU. 

Script

The script is good, there is plenty of drama here and we see the characters go through some things that especially with the longer runtime makes you care. There is also humour sprinkled in here mainly from Miller, Momoa and Jeremy Irons as Alfred which does lighten the film at times when it very much needs it. 

Style 

The one thing you can say about Zack Snyder is that he makes great looking films and this is another one of them. The action scenes are great and filmed really well to really encapsulate the epic nature of the characters and the film that we are seeing. Now the one major glaring issue is that this film is 4 hours long and it really shouldn't be, I appreciate the majority of the new content but there are clear parts of the film that could have been cut and it would have provided a better pacing, 3 hours is surely long enough, Avengers Endgame did it and I think this film could have done it. 

Overall

Overall, this is a fantastic film and a Fantastic experience. This is a much improved version of Justice League and what it does is make me want to see more of Snyder's vision for the DCEU. 4 hours is a big commitment so I think only fans will do it but I would say give it a chance, it is a lot of fun. 

Rating - 9/10

Wonder Woman 1984 (2020) Review

After months and months of anticipation Wonder Woman 1984 has finally made its way to the UK and I went back to the cinema today to see it and here is my review. The premise of the film is set in the year 1984 and sees Diana Prince trying to get on with her life as new threats emerge to challenge her. 

Main Character

I remember when Gal Gadot was cast as Wonder Woman, most of us out there were like she looks the part but can she act the part and without a shadow of a doubt she is perfect as Wonder Woman and it is the role she was born to play. She brings so much life to this character and you really care about Diana and really want her to succeed, her character takes interesting twists and turns and it feels like an appropriate development from the previous film and credit to Gadot for that. 

Supporting Characters

Chris Pine reprises his role as Steve Trevor and I wasn't sure about this after what happened to his character in the previous film but it really works and is a real highlight of the film. Pine and Gadot have superb chemistry together and it is even better here then it was in the previous film and that is because both of them are having so much fun together and it is really nice to see and works for the story the film is trying to tell. Kristen Wiig plays Barbara Minerva and I thought she did a really good job in the film, I must admit I wasn't sure at first but as the film goes on she gets better and better and her character is one you can feel a bit of sympathy for and you understand the actions she takes and credit to her for a strong performance here. Pedro Pascal plays Maxwell Lord and he is fantastic here, the trailers make it out that he is just a cheesy villain but he is far from that, he is the most interesting character in this film and they do so much to make him a memorable antagonist and one that will be remembered. I think with The Mandalorian we have maybe forgotten just how good Pascal is and this film is here to remind people just how charismatic and amazing an actor that he is. 

Story

The story for this film is fantastic and one of the best in recent comic book films. The relationship between Steve and Diana is really well developed and better handled here then it was in the first film, mixed with the interesting characters of Barbara & Lord provides a fascinating story that feels appropriate in 2020. It really pulls on the emotion and especially in current times it feels like the story people need and one that will resonate with audiences. A film like this shows that sometimes having less characters but really developing them is a much better idea and allows you to really get invested in what you are watching. 

Script

The script is great, this film takes place in the 80s and doesn't hide away from it but it also doesn't cheese the film up too much and feels like the right amount of it. The drama is ramped up and I grew to really care about the characters in the film and the blend felt right all the right through with those deep moments and the lighter moments.

Style  

As I mentioned above the film does a really good job in making you feel like you are watching the 1980s and it is a fun change of pace from what we are used to for sure. The action scenes are also pretty well done in this film even though there is an over reliance of The Lasso Of Truth, that is a tiny complaint. Though I do have a bigger complaint and that is some of the CGI, these were in the trailers so there not spoilers but it is Cheetah and the Golden Winged Armour. They just don't look very good and the action scene teased in the trailer disappoints and fails to live up to the hype. 

Overall

Overall, this is a fantastic film that improves on the first film. If you are a fan of Wonder Woman you will really enjoy this film and this is a film you have to experience on the big screen so when you feel comfortable go out and support cinemas and this film by seeing it.

Rating - 9/10

Diego Maradona (2019) Review

So last week the world was given the news that Football legend Diego Maradona had passed away at the age of 60 and it has had a big impact on the football world. I am a huge football fan but I think being a younger person I have never fully understood just how important Maradona was, I knew he was a great player and he scored a goal with his hand against England but I neglected everything else and now is my time to catch up. So I started with watching this documentary called Diego Maradona that came out just last year so is a pretty modern telling of his story and here is my review for it. 

So first things first is Maradona on the pitch and this film does a superb job of showing just how talented a player he was, some of the things that he does is outrageous and compares to players like Messi and Ronaldo now. The film also does a great job in showing how football has changed, the tackles he receives is absurd and the pitches are terrible showing just how gifted a player he was. 

Over the last week we have seen the whole country of Argentina and the city of Naples in huge mourning over Maradona and this documentary does a great job in showing why. He basically won the world cup on his own for Argentina and won the Italian League twice for Napoli, you really understand why these people saw him as God, he was easily the best player and he was treated like it. 

The film shows that there were two different people Diego & Maradona and from what we have heard in the last week that was true. Diego was a innocent and nice person who was really easy to get along with but Maradona was the winner, the man who has to push himself to be the best and become the best player that he can possibly be and the film documents that well. 

Maradona has plenty of demons that is clear and the film does a pretty good job and doesn't ignore them. It highlights the difficulties that he has had in his life and how when Maradona takes over Diego it caused terrible things in his life which maybe tarnishes his reputation a bit. 

My one criticism of the film is that it is a bit narrow in terms of its storytelling, I mean it totally glosses over the crazy time he had at Barcelona, quickly covers The Hand Of God and ignores his failed drug test at the 1994 World Cup. Maybe this film could have been better as a mini series of like 4 episodes in order to fully tell the story and flesh out the story which I would have been totally here for. 

Overall, this is a fantastic documentary, looking at one of the biggest characters in Football and the highs and lows of his career. If you are like me and don't think you know enough about Maradona this is a great way to start. 

Rating - 9/10    

Small Axe - Mangrove (2020) Review 

So I recently watched Lovers Rock which is the second film in the Small Axe collection on BBC and now I have gone back and watched the first film Mangrove and here is my review for it. The premise of the film is based on real events and sees a group of black people put on trial after a clash with racially charged British police. 

Main Character

Shaun Parkes plays Frank and he is fantastic here, he is the head of the Mangrove restaurant and his character is really interesting. His character has really interesting motivations, you see he is fed up of the police force but he maybe isn't as militant as some of the other characters and it provides fascinating dynamics and he knocks it out of the park. Letitia Wright is a truly phenomenal young actor and she plays the more militant member of the crew and she is so great and delivers such passion here. I mean she is a big name after her appearance in the Black Panther and Avengers films but I think she can be one of the biggest stars around for years and years around and this is probably the best I have ever seen her yet and that is saying a lot. 

Supporting Characters

Malachi Kirby is the third of the main people in the Mangrove 9 and he also gives a great performance, he has a speech towards the end of the film and it is so good and really hits you and credit has to go to him for how great his performance is here and these three in particular give some of the best performances of 2020. Jack Lowden who I first saw in Fighting With My Family plays a lawyer that helps the group out and he is a real nice addition to the cast, he has plenty of charm but he is used in an appropriate way, he doesn't overshadow the main cast but is a good addition here. Sam Spruell plays the main police officer and I thought he also did a great job, he is so disgusting to watch and you just see the lengths that these officers go to just because of racial hate and it makes him an antagonist you just want to hate. Overall, everybody does a great job in the cast and this is one of the best acted films of the year for sure. 

Story

The story is really impactful, you see the injustice that goes on with this society and it just feels very real. The first half of the film does an effective job in setting up the situation that these characters are in and the real brutality of the situation involving the police and these people due to the colour of there skin. The second half of the film is set in the courtroom and I really love these sequences, it shows the injustice in more of a casual way, which makes it even worse. To me these scenes are more uncomfortable as you just see how corrupt the system is and how it affects real people. The film has a great ending and is a real uplifting ending to a really important story. 

Script

The script is really well written, the dialogue is obviously really serious and really strong in terms of the abusive language that it tells and shows, but it feels appropriate and never oversteps the line and uses it for no reason. But also credit to the script that this film does have some funny moments and character moments that make you care and make you want to see The Mangrove 9 succeed. 

Style

As I have mentioned the film has quite a brutal style, not hiding away from the real brutality that has been seen in the past and it uses it affectively and in a way that is pretty respectful. The one criticism and literally the only one is the pacing for me was a bit slow at first, it takes a bit of time to get going but for me it is a valid criticism that bought the film down a tiny bit for me. 

Overall

Overall, this is a fantastic film that really conveys its subject matter appropriately and is effective. This is one of the best films of 2020 with amazing performances and if the rest of the Small Axe films can achieve levels like this then I am on board. 

Rating - 9/10

Minority Report (2002) Review

So with The Minority Report TV show hitting the UK, I thought before I watch it I would re-watch the original film that the show is a sequel too and here is my review for it. The premise of the film is set in the future where a special police force manage to arrest murderers before they commit the crime, but an officer must go on the run when he himself is accused of a future murder. 

Main Character

Tom Cruise plays John Anderton here and he is really good, he just has that leading man about him here, he leans heavily into his Mission Impossible routes and delivers a really physical performance. Also his character has plenty of depth to him, you care about Anderton and as we follow his journey you get more invested and want to see him succeed. Also in typical Cruise fashion, he runs a lot here and lets face it Tom Cruise has the best run in Hollywood so appreciate it in all its glory here. 

Supporting Characters

To be honest this is mainly the Cruise show, but there is a solid supporting cast with him. First Colin Farrell plays an agent who goes against Cruise and he is great here, he also gives a very physical performance and when these two go head to head it is a joy to watch. Max Von Sydow plays Cruises boss here and he is great as always too, the relationship between the two of them feels real and genuine and it adds to the movie greatly. A young Samantha Morton plays Agatha and she is great too with a really interesting performance that adds layers to the film, which is strange when you think just recently she was Alpha on The Walking Dead. Other great actors such as Tim Blake Nelson, Peter Stormare and Neal McDonough add plenty to their roles and add quality to the film. 

Story 

The story of this film has a really unique idea that has unfortunately been copied plenty of times since. This film has plenty of philosophical and deep conversations to be had and it does it in a great way while keeping this film exciting and keeping you on edge. For the first almost 2 hours, the film's plot is tight, exciting and interesting. But then I felt like the last 20 minutes wasn't very strong, there is a big twist but if you have watched any film ever you can see it coming from a mile away. Also the ending didn't do much for me, I won't go into spoilers but for a film that is so interesting it felt like the ending was a bit generic and plain. 

Script  

The script is great, there is some fantastic dramatic dialogue here and interesting dialogue that keeps you invested. The script is really well written, in terms of keeping the plot interesting and not overcomplicating a film that could have been very easily overcomplicated so it deserves credit for that. There is also some nice little bits of humour added here that rises it above just a dull action film. 

Style

The style of the film is great, even though the film came out 18 years ago it still holds up and looks great, the tech looks really flashy and the whole world looks really cool. The cars in particular look really unique and cool, this film has some really cool action scenes in it, even though one of them clearly inspired an action scene in Attack Of The Clones which brings it down a little bit. It is also funny seeing what stores they thought would be popular in the 2050's, let's just say they get it totally wrong. But this films style is great and adds plenty to the whole experience. 

Overall

Overall, this is a fantastic film, an action thriller that has plenty of depth to it that should be on everybody's list to watch. 

American Murder: The Family Next Door (2020) Review

This documentary hit Netflix a few weeks ago to quite a lot of fanfare and I have now had the chance to watch American Murder: The Family Next Door and here is my review for it. The premise of the doc is that in 2018 a normal mother and two young children disappeared and the doc tells the story into what happened. 

Now the things I thought that was good about this documentary, first I really liked that the footage used was all authentic tapes from the situation involved. It wasn't like some Docs that have high production values and try to recreate certain aspects, it feels very real and very raw and disturbing which it is clearly going for so it does its job well. 

Also, sometimes I feel like they like to make documentaries about anything these days but this was truly shocking, I am not going to go into too much depth as to what happens but it is one of those things that you will thinking about long after you have watched it, it just manages to stick into your mind. 

Usually I find documentaries that are only 90 minutes long to suffer from a lack of detail but this film doesn't suffer from that. If anything it suffers from the opposite, maybe it just takes a little too long to go into all the details keeping you waiting but it does still do it well enough. 

Overall, this documentary is truly disturbing and chilling and at around 90 minutes is a short watch so I would highly recommend it, especially if you are a fan of documentaries like this. 

Rating - 9/10 

Just Mercy (2020) Review

It feels like an important time to watch this film with it being Black History Month and here is my review for the film Just Mercy. The premise of the film is based on true events that sees a Civil Rights Defence Attorney aim to free a wrongly convicted man. 

Main Character

Michael B Jordan is seriously one of the best actors around and once again he knocks it out of the park here. He is fantastic as the defence lawyer, you truly believe that he really cares about the cases he takes on and how that makes him so different to the other lawyers shown in the film. He is just so good and I thought his presence was just really powerful in this film. 

Supporting Characters

Jamie Foxx plays the man convicted of the crime and he is brilliant, he conveys so much emotion and you just feel so much sympathy for him and really care about him and want to see him succeed. I mean Jordan and Foxx don't have too many scenes together but the two of them knock it out of the park here and when they are together they shine even more. The rest of the cast are great too, Brie Larson is great, Tim Blake Nelson is great, Rafe Spall is great and O'shea Jackson Jnr is great. They just add so much quality to this film and their roles feel genuine and compliment the two main performances even better. 

Story 

The story is incredibly powerful, seeing this man really go above and beyond to try and get this man freed, who from the very beginning of the film you can pretty much tell is innocent. With this being based on a true story it didn't exactly give them much room to manoeuvre and I thought they were respectful and showed just how bad racism can be and how it can really change people's lives.  

Script

The script is really good, the drama is there and you feel the emotion when you are supposed to, you care about the characters and want to see them succeed in their journey. Characters are pretty layered and they range and aren't all stereotypes, in fact there are few stereotypes which helps improve the film. 

Style 

The Style of the film does its job, it is a really gripping film, without particularly gripping things happening. There is just an intense feeling about the film that something bad can happen. Also the film flowed really nicely and despite the slower feeling was paced well. Now onto my one criticism of the film and that there are a few parts of the film that are never followed up on and feel like they didn't have to be here, also for a film involving law, there is a lack of court scenes and I think the film could have used more here. 

Overall

Overall, this is a fantastic film, it hits the levels necessary for a story like this and is one of those films that are really important. It is an important watch and one that I think people should find to watch.

Rating - 9/10

 Deadpool (2016) Review

So my next film I am reviewing is that of Deadpool, now technically this isn't an X-Men film but they are present here and if i need an excuse to watch this film then I will happily take it and here is my review for the film. The premise of the film sees a wisecracking mercenary gain powers but ugly looks as he aims to track down the man who did it to him and the woman he loves. 

Main Character

Ryan Reynolds has always loved the character of Deadpool and after the poor excuse of the character in X-Men Origins Wolverine he wanted the chance to give this character the justice he deserved and boy did he do that. He is so good in this film that for every role he does after this he will always be remembered as Deadpool, he is hilarious and nails all the one liners here. His chemistry with the other actors is great and he just nails the role so well that honestly I can't imagine anybody playing this role other then Reynolds. 

Supporting Characters

Morena Baccarin plays his love interest in the film and she is great, their chemistry together is fantastic and a real highlight here. The film spends plenty of time on this romance so it had to work and it really does for me and makes them a fun couple to root for here. As I said some of the X-Men are here and Colossus is here and this is the best he has ever been, he is much more like his comic book counterpart and it really works. His dynamic with Deadpool is really fun and the fact he is totally CGI is great and makes him standout to the rest of the characters. Also shoutout to Negasonic Teenage Warhead who is a really fun character here and again I liked how her character was used in this film. Ed Skrein plays the villain Ajax and he isn't the most interesting villain but his deadpan persona works opposite Deadpool, because of everything going on his character works for this film and you do want to see Deadpool get his hands on him. Gina Carano, TJ Miller and Karan Soni are also fun in there smaller roles. 

Story

The story is surprisingly well done, it is a pretty simple revenge film but it really works for the film that is on show here. The flashback scenes also add depth to the story and the romance that we are meant to be supporting throughout. Having Deadpool breaking the 4th wall was such a great decision and allowed the story to make fun of itself while also making itself interesting and fun. 

Script

The script is really good, obviously, Deadpool makes jokes all the time and the majority really hit and add so much humour. There isn't really a character like Deadpool and this films script embraces that to its upmost which really makes the film standout. Also the drama when done is actually done well, and as I said make you cares about the relationships on display. 

Style 

The style is off the walls crazy, this film had to be Rated R, we need the vulgar language and brutal action scenes as that really helps make the film feel different to other superhero films. The action scenes are all really well filmed and brutal, with a variety of weapons and unique kills, which keeps the film engaging. But the pacing of the film has a bit of an issue, mainly in the first half of the film, we spend the majority of time in the flashback story and while it is fine, you just miss Deadpool and want to go back to that and maybe either have a few less flashbacks or spread them out a bit more. 

Overall

Overall, this is a fantastic unique fun film. There isn't really a character or film like Deadpool and if you like more mature action comedies then this is a must see. 

Rating - 9/10