IP MAN 3 (2015)

Genre: Action / Drama
Running Length: 1:45
Cast: Donnie Yen, Mike Tyson, Lynn Hung, Max Zhang, Patrick Tam, Kent Cheng, Danny Chan
Director: Wilson Yip
Screenplay: Edmond Wong

I was expecting IP MAN 3 to be another excuse of a film to showcase our grandmaster's patriotism but I was very surprised with the dramatic direction the film took. It explores more of Ip Man's family life than his reputation as the master of the martial art of Wing Chun. It is a bold move by Donnie Yen to move from his current superstardom as the go-to actor for all things kungfu and to focus more on his acting chops. And it paid off.

Blame the trailers for just highlighting the fight scenes and the hype surrounding "Mike Tyson vs Donnie Yen". The biggest highlight for me is the tender relationship between Yen's Ip Man and his wife, played once again by Lynn Hung. If there is one complain I had with the earlier Ip Man films is the underutilisation of Hung's character but in this film, her portrayal of the quiet, understanding and supportive spouse is finally fully developed. The best scene in the movie is a juxtaposition of Yen and Hung and a house full of martial artists (with a fun "Bruce Lee" cameo).

Ip Man 3 is set in 1959, where our grandmaster is settling into a low-profile life in Hong Kong after decades of struggling against the Japanese oppression (shown in the previous two instalments). It's a very different world now where Hong Kong is starting to rise as one of the best places to make money. And with money, comes extortion and criminal activities and the depreciation of values like innocence, purity, virtue and honour. And thus, that sets the canvass for Ip Man to face-off with a group of HK thugs, a corrupted American businessman (Tyson), a jealous Wing Chun proponent (Zhang) and a Thai fighter (??!). Frankly, it's just an excuse to showcase a collection of martial art battles.

So are the fight scenes any good? It's serviceable. In fact, it feels overly choreographed. But what about the Yen vs Tyson showdown? Well, that's probably the best hand-to-hand fight scene in recent years. It feels fresh and energising as it's a battle of different styles; the speed of Wing Chun vs the sheer brute force of boxing. The high impact punches from the burly frame Tyson looks deadly.

In the end, what stood out the most is Ip Man's closing message; that is to always put family first, ahead of the service and duties of the community.

Rating: 7.5/10

TOP 10 MOVIES OF 2015

Some stats: Watched 42 movies this year; 36 in the cinema and 6 on a long haul flight. Not bad at all. Do note that some of these films were released last year in the US but it only found its way here to our shores this year, especially the more non-blockbuster type of movies.

But it's the same every year as award worthy films are usually released during the Fall season in the States and it will only make its way to the big screen here the following year (or never at all). Case in point, films to look forward to in early 2016 includes: Creed, Steve Jobs, Spotlight, Room, The Danish Girl, The Hateful Eight, The Revenant, Joy, Concussion and so on and so forth.

So for now...here we go! Let the countdown begin! Click on the titles to read the full review.

#10. FOXCATCHER (8/10)
This is not a feel-good sports movie. The sports of professional wrestling is just a canvass to paint the story of the devastating effects of the absent father. Steve Carell is completely "unrecognisable" here as his pathetic character slowly descends into a deplorable state.

#9 TOMORROWLAND (8/10)

For the first time in a very long time, the studios dared to release an original story as a summer tentpole movie ie. not a sequel, not a superhero movie, not based on a book or even inspired by a TV series. The movie strongly promotes the need to continue dreaming and hoping for a brighter future despite the bleak current conditions. Unfortunately, this movie flopped in the box office. It seems that today's nation of zombies audience would rather devour mindless popcorn movies than sit through an entertaining but thought provoking film. Or maybe it was just bad marketing on Disney's part. 

#8 CRIMSON PEAK (8.5/10)
A twisted and tragic ghost story set in the 19th century Gothic era, but at the heart of this film is actually a love story which takes place in a once grand English mansion. The secrets and suspicions of its characters got me guessing right to the satisfying big reveal at the end.

#7 INSIDE OUT (8.5/10)
A complex concept but presented in an imaginative and easy to follow storyline. A magical experience reminiscent of a Studio Ghibli production. Be prepared to be moved with both joy and sadness.

#6 THE MARTIAN (8.5/10)
The Martian is nothing like Interstellar. Although the thought of being stuck all alone 225,000,000 km away from home (earth) is somewhat depressing, the film's tone and approach is actually very positive. A triumphant and feel good cinematic experience.

#5 SICARIO (8.5/10)
An intense, violent and uncompromising take on the drug cartel trade in Mexico. An action drama so thick with tension I felt I couldn't breathe at times. Benicio Del Toro owned every scene he's in as an unforgiving hitman,

#4 MAD MAX: FURY ROAD (9/10)
Mad, magnificent, mayhem. A modern action classic with real stunts and real danger. I felt like I was in a 2 hours theme park experience. The cinema halls should have installed safety belts to its chairs.

#3. BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN (9/10)
A road trip film that checked everything on the list and more. A rare experience that pushed all the right emotional buttons for me. The child actor is a revelation.

#2. WHIPLASH (9/10)
There are countless of films which explores the mentor/student relationship but nothing comes close to the approach this film took. It opened up a whole new perspective of mentoring for me. This is no Dead Poets Society - it's emotionally brutal.

#1. BOYHOOD (10/10)

Filmed over a 12 years span with the same cast, Boyhood was a meditative experience for me. No melodrama. Just a couple of adults and kids trying to figure out life. 

Enjoy a mash-up of 2015 movies. See you in 2016!

STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS (2015)

Genre: Science Fiction / Adventure
Running Length: 2:15
Cast: Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Daisy Ridley, Oscar Isaac, John Boyega, Adam Driver, Peter Mayhew, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, Andy Serkis
Director: J.J. Abrams

Screenplay: Lawrence Kasdan & J.J. Abrams and Michael Arndt, based on characters created by George Lucas

STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS. After thinking for a long time on how to approach this review without going into spoilery territory, I figured the best way I know how is to use a metaphor.

Now imagine a popular band/artist who has been around for 30+ years (think U2, Bon Jovi, Jacky Cheung) and they are still releasing new music.  They are going to hold a concert tour. If you’re deciding to go for their concert, what would you be hoping to experience? To see them perform:

1. As many of their new songs as possible + a few of their greatest hits; or

2. As many of their greatest hits as possible + a few of their new songs; or

3. A nostalgia fest - only their greatest hits; or

4. 50/50 if possible; or

5. I don't care. I just want to be entertained.

What you want to get out from this concert is going to be determined by your expectations before you step into the concert venue.

Fortunately/Unfortunately, The Force Awakens was made for fans; pleasing them with familiar ingredients from the original trilogy (a homage of sorts with a pinch of new elements thrown in) rather than boldly go where no man has gone before.

Rating: 8/10

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY PART 2 (2015)

Genre: Science Fiction / Action
Running Length: 2:16
Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Donald Sutherland, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Julianne Moore, Sam Claflin, Mahershala Ali, Natalie Dormer
Director: Francis Lawrence

Screenplay: Peter Craig and Danny Strong, based on the novel “Mockingjay” by Suzanne Collins

Dramatic irony is a powerful tool in literature and films. When used correctly, it connects so deeply into the very core of the audience one literally feels like they were punched in the gut. MOCKINGJAY PART 2 had so much potential to do so but in order to attract a wider audience, the filmmakers compromised and never went "all in". There were at least two major ironies which they could have focused on to redeem the franchise (which started off with so much shock and promise) but instead, they chose the safe path of highlighting the characters running around in abandoned tunnels and buildings chased by zombie-like creatures aka Maze Runner or Divergent series.

The film begins exactly were Part 1 ended. Distressed about what happened to Hurtcherson's character, Jennifer Lawrence's Katniss decides to join the front line of the Resistance with a personal agenda of assassinating President Snow (Sutherland). And so begins her dangerous mission which she later learns that she could just be a pawn in a bigger game.

I think one of the key problems of the Mockingjay movies is dividing it into two movies. It could have been one epic satisfying major movie to conclude the series. But instead, to justify more box office money the need to develop more three dimensional characters and deeper plots, the results were counter intuitive. Both films felt bloated with uneven pacing. I didn't care enough when major characters were killed off.

There's no doubting that the Hunger Game series has high aspirations and is meant to provoke the irony of war, but it ended lukewarm - neither a satisfying sci-fi adventure movie nor a deeper exploration into the grim side of human nature.

Rating: 5.5/10

SPECTRE (2015)

Genre: Action / Thriller
Running Length: 2:28
Cast: Daniel Craig, Christoph Waltz, Lea Seydoux, Ralph Fiennes, Monica Bellucci, Ben Whishaw, Naomie Harris, Dave Bautista, Andrew Scott
Director: Sam Mendes
Screenplay: John Logan and Neal Purvis & Robert Wade and Jez Butterworth

SPECTRE is one technically accomplished and sleek Bond film. However, the screenplay pales in comparison to Skyfall, its immediate predecessor (also directed by Sam Mendes). The screenwriters tried to tie-in all the previous Daniel Craig's Bond into this film and as a result, it felt forced and patchy. Also, it gave me the vibe that Sam Mendes and team were not terribly motivated to make this film. To be fair, perhaps my expectations of Spectre was so high because Skyfall was just too good.

It starts off big with an engaging tracking shot of Bond working his way through a Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City. But it goes downhill and bloated thereafter where Bond's agenda this round is to follow the cookie crumbs left behind by his former boss. It kinda picked up towards the end when the big baddie revealed his masterplan but unfortunately, it just didn't redeem the entire movie. And the last 20 minutes which involved M vs. C was unnecessary. (Side note: "C" played by Andrew Scott is extremely distracting here. Those who watched BBC's Sherlock will get what I mean).

To me, Daniel Craig's Bond has always been more gritty and real for eg. he uses more hand-to-hand and fist fights. In summary, he "bleeds". But this round, the filmmakers seem to go back to the classic Bond where he seems invincible, overly suave and can fly a plane (and two helicopters) without breaking a sweat. Yes, even the corny, "'So James, what should we do now?' whispers the girl seductively" is present in this movie. The dude sitting next to me in the cinema hall couldn't helped but chuckled when the obvious happened thereafter.

As the main villain, Christoph Waltz is criminally underused. He is menacing in a somewhat cool demeanour. But compared to Javier Bardem's Silva, Waltz's baddie seems tame. Thankfully, the action set pieces are very well executed and the cinematography is breathtaking. And the score is exhilarating (however, that can't be said of Sam Smith's theme song; it was only marginally improved when coupled with the credit sequence visual feast).

Although Spectre is flawed, it's still an above average 007-outing.

Rating: 6.5/10

THE WALK (2015)

Genre: Thriller/Drama

Running Length: 2:03

Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Charlotte Le Bon, Ben Kingsley, Clément Sibony, Cesar Domboy, Steve Valentine, James Badge Dale

Director: Robert Zemeckis

Screenplay: Robert Zemeckis & Christopher Browne

If you have a severe fear of heights, I would suggest you walk away from THE WALK. The exceptional CGI effects, 3D rendering and camera work of our lead character risking his life to high-wire walk across THE 110-story Twin Towers (of the World Trade Center in NYC) will guarantee to give audiences sweaty palms and dizziness. Every step he takes on that steel cable across the 140 ft gap between the towers is a heart stopper - no net and no harness, just death beneath him. 

Robert Zemeckis has done an impressive job of recreating Frenchman Philippe Petit walk, giving audiences today a taste of what happened in 1974. What's more impressive is the surprising amount of tension it still generates when you already know the outcome.  

However, that can't be said with the narrative leading to "the walk". The movie is clearly divided into three segments. The first provides a background of Petit and his early influences, which turned out to be boring and surprisingly cartoonish. Act Two picks up the pace a little and showcases Petit's preparation for his grand anarchist artistic act, which plays out like a heist film. This is no Ocean's Eleven but yet it plays out more realistically compared to Ocean films thanks to Murphy's Law. And of the course, the third segment is "the walk" itself. 

Although Joseph Gordon-Levitt is both energetic and entertaining portraying Philippe Petit, the one that deserves any award is the people from the technical department for its triumphant special effects wizardry. For those looking for a more intricate and factual representation of the daredevil's life leading to "the walk", go watch the award winning documentary Man On Wire. Those looking for a more cinematic and sheer spectacle experience, this movie is a better option. 

Rating: 8/10

CRIMSON PEAK (2015)

Genre: Horror
Running Length: 1:59

Cast: Mia Wasikowska, Tom Hiddleston, Jessica Chastain,Charlie Hunnam

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Screenplay: Guillermo del Toro & Matthew Robbins

As one of the characters in CRIMSON PEAK quoted, this movie isn't so much a ghost story but more of a story with ghosts. In fact the sightings of apparitions are just red herrings to a tragic love story (not to say that the appearance of these "dead people" are Casper like because I actually had to close my eyes a few times and watched with my ears). 

I'm not sure if the filmmakers deliberately crafted this movie as a 100% homage to 19th century Gothic literature but everything from the dialogue to the production set somehow made me feel like I was watching a sweeping period piece. Strangely, there were moments I felt like I was watching a stage play but presented in a cinematic fashion. Perhaps it was the manner of the dialogue that was presented by the actors (at times, the dialogue sounds over-the-top silly), or perhaps it's because the majority of the film takes place in a lavish but run down English mansion set piece. No, it's not actually a bad thing because I was thoroughly engaged throughout. Although I must say, the occasional shocking violence and hardcore gore seemed a little out of place. 

As good as the lead actors are, they are somewhat interchangeable. Just like the Phantom of the Opera stage play, audiences are more invested in the characters rather than the actors playing these characters. So for example, Tom Hiddleston's character in this movie could have been played by say, Hugh Jackman (but Hugh Jackman wouldn't be able to play the character of Loki because Tom Hiddleston IS Loki). 

Lastly, from a technical standpoint, Crimson Peak is a spectacle. The set design is a treat for the eyes, the cinematography is breathtakingly beautiful and the score is perfect. The CGI is used very appropriately. Del Toro's distinctive style is very much evident here as demonstrated in his "creatures". His "monsters" are not just scary but they are usually soulful. And in this film, he doesn't really rely on boo moments to scare his audiences but prefers to allow dread and tension to build instead. 

This del Toro's dark and twisted fantasy is definitely worth the experience. 

Rating: 8.5/10

  

THE MARTIAN (2015)

Genre: Science Fiction
Running Length: 2:21
Cast: Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Michael Pena, Kate Mara, Sebastian Stan, Aksel Hennie, Jeff Daniels, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kristin Wiig, Sean Bean

Director: Ridley Scott
Screenplay: Drew Goddard, based on the novel by Andy Weir

"You solve one problem and then the next. You solve enough problems and you get to come home." Mark Watney

THE MARTIAN is probably one of the most accessible films from Ridley Scott since Gladiator. This is Castaway for today's generation; where Damon's character spends the majority of his time talking to an "audience" aka. video blogging rather than talking to himself. And his best friend is Wilson the GoPro camera (several of them actually).

The science and maths in this film is easier to follow compared to Nolan's Interstellar. Apparently it was even fact-checked by NASA. The plot is easy to follow too. Damon's character is an astronaut where he was left behind on planet Mars by his fellow crew mates due to a freak storm. They presumed he was dead. So our protagonist must use his smarts to find a way to survive on the red planet until he is possibly rescued - several years away.

Although the narrative sounds depressing, the film's tone is actually pretty positive and upbeat. Eventhough the subject matter is serious, the film is approachable thanks to several light hearted moments peppered with appropriate low-key comedy. Also, it has a good balance of how Damon's character tackles both his physical limitations and psychological challenges. So, it's not emo all the way. From the trailers, audience may think that they are in for a boring time, seeing one man going up against one complication after another but it's actually more than that. There are several stories unfolding at the very same time but shares the same mission - to bring our astronaut back home safely, thus making this an interesting watch as we witness brilliant minds around the world coordinating and working together.

As good as Matt Damon is as our everyday hero, he is no Tom Hanks. Nevertheless, his performance here is arguably one of the best in his career. The supporting cast (with very big names) is equally impressive.

I'm glad the filmmakers use practical effects to enhance the look and feel, rather than hardcore CGI. Also, the smart editing coupled with an inspired choice of disco music gives the film a good pacing. Although the ending is a little too over-the-top (and the plot involving the Chinese government seemed forced and out of place), The Martian is still a feel-good cinematic experience.

Rating: 8.5/10

EVEREST (2015)

Genre: Adventure/Drama
Running Length: 2:01
Cast: Jason Clarke, Josh Brolin, John Hawkes, Jake Gyllenhaal, Emily Watson, Kiera Knightley, Michael Kelly, Naoko Mori, Sam Worthington
Director: Baltasar Kormakur
Screenplay: William Nicholson and Simon Beaufoy

"Mother Nature may be forgiving this year, or next year, but eventually she's going to come around and whack you." Geraldo Rivera 

 

Do not be tricked into thinking that EVEREST will leave you breathless with stunning visuals and edge-of-your-seat suspense. At least that's what the trailer attempts to communicate. This is no Cliffhanger action adventure movie. Yes, the visual of Mount Everest is majestic, but this movie is more of a man-versus-nature genre. The film reminds us again that mother nature doesn't care about heroism, kindness, friendship, your family or your pregnant wife. She doesn't play by the rules.

 

Based on a true story, this film chronologized a group of climbers' expedition to the mountain's summit in 1996. Of course, not everyone made it down safely. So if you've no prior background to what really happened (who made it, and who didn't), please leave it that way when you walk into the cinema. The emotional payout will be better. 

 

And speaking of that, this movie needs to be experienced on the big screen and not on TV or worse, a tablet/phone. As good as the top notch cast are (given that their characters are fairly one-dimensional), the true stars of the movie are the director of photography, the visual effects people and of course, the mountain ranges. Audience will certainly feel like they are right there, experiencing the somber tragedy of the mountain slowly becoming the executioner and tomb for certain climbers. Although I caught the movie on the normal 2-D version, I'm pretty sure the IMAX 3D version would be more immersive.

 

As one of the characters in the movie said, "The mountain will always have the last say". 

 

Rating: 8/10

MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS (2015)

Genre: Science Fiction/Adventure
Running Length: 2:08
Cast:  Dylan O'Brien, Kaya Scodelario, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Ki Hong Lee, Jacob Lofland, Rosa Salazar, Aidan Gillen, Giancarlo Esposito, Barry Pepper, Lili Taylor, Patricia Clarkson
Director: Wes Ball
Screenplay: T.S. Nowlin, based on the novel by James Dashner 

"Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds." John 12:24 

MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS touches on the age-old question of whether is it right to sacrifice a small group of people to save the larger population? Just like the rest of the post-apocalyptic YA novels adapted to the big screen, this sequel expands its universe beyond the "maze" in the first movie.

This movie starts where The Maze Runner ended with our protagonist (O'Brien) and his fellow survivors are being taken to a secured location with the promise of a ticket to the promised land. Of course, not all is what it seems. And our survivors are on the run again. Although not quite like the maze we saw in the first film, but the "playground" now has expanded to include crawling through air vents, running away from zombie-like creatures through tunnels and fallen buildings and surviving severe weather conditions. The filmmakers have definitely amped-up the action sequences and some scenes are near terrifying (think Resident Evil). 

Although there are some interesting characters added to the group in this second installment, it still doesn't fare very well in the acting department. Compared to The Hunger Games franchise, the performance here rivals the bad acting we see in soap operas.

To be fair, I like what they did thematically with where all these are going, and I was genuinely entertained. However just like snacking on junk food, I was tricked to feeling full - it was just not as satisfying as a healthy gourmet dinner.

Rating: 6.5/10

   

SICARIO (2015)

Genre: Action/Drama
Running Length: 2:01
Cast: Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin, Benicio Del Toro, Daniel Kaluuya, Jon Bernthal, Victor Garber
Director: Denis Villeneuve
Screenplay: Taylor Sheridan

SICARIO is an intense take on the drug cartel. It is gripping and tension-filled. The violence is shockingly realistic but not gratuitous. (In Spanish, "sicario" means "hitman")

This movie tells a story of an idealistic by-the-book FBI agent (Blunt) who is recruited by a shady government operative led by an equally shadowy character (Brolin). Their ambitious mission is to take down a drug lord in Mexico. Blunt's character is brought into the plan for reasons she's unclear of. The audience is kept in the dark too as the plot slowly unveils its grand plan leading to a violent and brutal conclusion.

From a technical standpoint, I'm always intrigued with movies which are able to drum up an atmosphere of dread from get go. In this case, it's because of the perfect synergy of Villeneuve's impeccable direction, tight editing, superb cinematography and the bass-heavy score. There is an action sequence 1/3 into the movie which was so intense the guy sitting next to me in the cinema hall pulled his legs towards his chest.

In terms of performance, as good as Blunt is, the show belongs to Del Toro. He crushes it as a middle-aged merciless gunman. He steals every scene he's in. The rest of the supporting cast is equally solid. 

Although it has the thrills of an action flick, the heart of this film is actually a drama which takes place in a world of grey, where our protagonist is faced with difficult decisions which would compromise her moral values. I was hoping it would focus more on the latter like what Villeneuve's did in his last film Prisoners, but somehow the end results didn't give me a satisfying emotional punch in the gut. Nevertheless, Sicario stands apart as one of the best action drama movies I've seen.

Rating: 8.5/10

INSIDE OUT (2015)

Genre: Animated
Running Length: 1:34
Cast: Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Bill Hader, Lewis Black, Mindy Kaling, Richard Kind, Kaitlyn Dias, Diane Lane, Kyle MacLachlan
Director: Pete Docter & Ronaldo Del Carmen
Screenplay: Pete Docter, Meg LeFauve & Josh Cooley

INSIDE OUT is arguably one of the most original and complex animated movie ever produced by an American animated studio. And in terms of look and feel, this film actually resembles something out of a Studio Ghibli production (watch out for a scene which pays homage to My Neighbour Totoro). Looks like Pixar is back to form with their latest gamble as this film, just like any of their earlier productions, satisfies on multiple levels. It equally engages both adults and children - except for those under 6, judging by their restlessness in the cinema. Well, this is no Minions anyway.

Personally, I defined superior storytelling as the ability to easily connect with your audience with warm and sensitive language, speaking to them in human terms without sacrificing the reality and logic of the subject matter. And Inside Out fits right in there as it uses the personification of Emotions to explore themes of how an individual's personality is shaped and built on a foundation of memories.  Oh, it's not all serious and sad as it balances out perfectly with fun and joy.

If you've seen the movie trailer, you would have been introduced to the five Emotions character (Joy, Anger, Disgust, Fear and Sadness) in the setting of control room of sorts, living in the head of our protagonist. In actuality, the lion share of the narrative takes place outside of the control room where Joy and Sadness were accidentally ejected out far far away into another part of the brain and they need to quickly find their way back to restore balance. And thus, begins one of the most imaginative road trip ever where they meet different characters (eg. Bing Bong, our main character's one-time imaginary friend) and venture into different representations of our mind (dreams, subconsciousness etc).

From a visual perspective, it is beautifully rendered - it's colourful and vibrant. And the Emotions (and its perfect voice casting) have this shimmery and hand-drawn appearance to it which makes them very appealing. Perhaps it's because Joy reminds me of Tinker Bell.

Adult moviegoers will likely be moved by the bittersweet childhood memories the film will trigger. Indeed, in order to experience the completeness of life, we need a combination of emotions especially joy and sadness.

Rating: 8.5/10   


 

THE MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E (2015)

Genre: Action/Comedy
Running Length: 1:56
Cast: Henry Cavill, Armie Hammer, Alicia Vikander, Elizabeth Debicki, Hugh Grant,
Director: Guy Ritchie
Screenplay: Guy Ritchie & Lionel Wigram

There was a sense of deja vu when THE MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E ended. It felt like The Lone Ranger (the motion picture) all over again: Both films were once popular TV series. Armie Hammer appears in both the remake for the big screen. And both features an unlikely partnership. Although the trailer for both the big screen adaptation looked really promising and fun, the actual output was somewhat unsatisfying.

However, from a visual perspective, this film looks really classy and stylish. The production design is detailed and the use of split-screen for some action scenes feels fresh. And speaking of action sequences, Ritchie uses a more restrained approach for some of these scenes compared to the standard wall-to-wall in-your-face blockbuster action movies. For example, an important boat chase scene unfolds completely in the background while Cavill's character is having a snack. That scene left me in stitches! And there are a few of such played for laughs offscreen moments peppered throughout the movie. Also, the use of a classy jazz score is an inspired choice.

If only the narrative was more interesting. Strangely, the story is both simplistic and convoluted at the same time - which ends up "talking alot but actually saying nothing". Both Cavill and Hammer definitely have screen presence as the duo spends most of their time bantering back and forth and trying to one-up each other. Cavill is the debonair "brainy" chap while Hammer is the no nonsense "brawny" lad. That said, with their well-cut suits and dapper berets, they appear more like mannequins than real flesh and blood men.

Just like both our gentlemen who appears to be more preoccupied with their outlook, The Man From U.N.C.L.E is all style, but no substance.

Rating: 6.5/10         

 

  

SOUTHPAW (2015)

Genre: Drama
Running Length: 2:04
Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Forest Whitaker, Rachel McAdams, Oona Laurence, 50 Cent, Naomie Harris
Director: Antoine Fuqua
Screenplay: Kurt Sutter 

“Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It's a very mean and nasty place and I don't care how tough you are it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't about how hard ya hit. It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done!” Rocky Balboa 

Sports drama (particularly boxing movies) are like romantic comedies; they follow tried-and-true formulas and audiences will walk away feeling satisfied because they got what they were expecting for. Just like Rocky, SOUTHPAW is less about winning or losing but more about the hero's journey towards redemption. It's more about personal growth and relationships. 

Antoine Fuqua has given us another technically flawless motion picture. The actors' performance are solid, the fights in the ring are intense, the score by the late James Horner is emotional at all the right spots and of course, the screenplay is focused. That said, there is something which is missing which I can't put a finger on it. For a dramatic film, one should feel the punch in the emotional gut at its climax but Southpaw didn't do it for me. Nevertheless, it's still a well crafted film with a knockout performance by Gyllenhaal (with Prisoners, Nightcrawler and the up-coming Everest, Gyllenhaal is one committed actor). In this movie, his switch from rage to vulnerability and his physical transformation are admirable. The rest of the supporting cast are solid especially Whitaker and McAdams. A big shout out to Oona Laurence's commanding performance as our hero's young daughter. 

Although the narrative is predictable, the depth of its characters and their relationships elevate this film to a compelling watch.

Rating: 7/10

 

MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - ROGUE NATION (2015)

Genre: Action/Thriller
Running Length: 2:11
Cast:  Tom Cruise, Simon Pegg, Rebecca Ferguson, Jeremy Renner, Alec Baldwin, Ving Rhames, Sean Harris
Director: Christopher McQuarrie
Screenplay: Christopher McQuarrie

Watching any of the Mission: Impossible films (MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - ROGUE NATION being the 5th outing from the franchise) is like watching an episode of The Road Runner cartoons. No matter how outrageous the traps are (set by The Coyote), The Road Runner will never fall into it. Similarly, no matter how dangerous the situations are thrown at Tom Cruise's Ethan Hunt, we know at the back of our mind he will somehow survive it. There is a sense of predictability that Ethan Hunt/The Road Runner will always win. So, the fun is actually seeing how our hero creatively overcomes each "trap" without being caught.

Just like the previous Mission, the storyline often feels insignificant as the focus is on the action set pieces. The plot checks all its trademark boxes; exotic locations, shifting alliances, megalomaniac villains, but this round, the wall to wall action sequences are amped-up to 11. The hanging Tom Cruise by the plane sequence (seen in the trailer and posters) would be the most daring stunt, but the other scenes offered are more intense; the Nessun Dorma drama, the breathtaking underwater complication, the relentless motorcycle chase and the final confrontation. What works in these sequences is its little reliance on CGI and Tom Cruise going full Jackie Chan as a one-man stunt machine. So there is a sense of real danger and tension.

What also worked in this film is Rebecca Ferguson's character. She is no damsel in distress. In fact, she does more rescuing than being rescued. And I'm glad the filmmakers did not over sexualised the relationship between Cruise and her. I'm also glad that Simon Pegg has meatier scenes this round.

Although the tone is predominantly serious, there is enough humour and silliness to keep Rogue Nation as a solid piece of popcorn entertainment. That's all folks!

Rating: 7/10

BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN (2015)

 
Genre: Drama/Comedy
Running Length: 2:43
Cast: Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Harshaali Malthotra, Nawazuddin Siddiqui
Director: Kabir Khan
Screenplay: Vijayendra Prasad, Kabir Khan, Parveez Sheikh, Asad Hussain

"Love transcends all borders"

BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN is an emotional movie from the get-go. It is very rare that any film can move me right from the start but the moment the camera pans over rows of serene looking snow-capped mountains coupled with the film's haunting soundtrack, it had me at 'hello'. What made this film worked is its simple focus; one man's mission to get a lost girl back to her parents. Salman Khan is our protagonist Bajrangi, a simpleton, God fearing man with a magnanimous heart. As fate would have it, he comes across a lost mute 6-year old girl in the temple grounds and so begins his journey to reunite the girl with her parents. But she is no ordinary Indian girl - she's from Pakistan.

As with all road trip movies, it's not getting there that matters, but what happens along the way. As expected, the journey gets harder and more unbearable as the film unfolds. Although much has been written about the movie's message of peace between the two foes (it's definitely working as it's touching both hearts and minds of the two nations as reflected in the huge box office collection in India and Pakistan), it is the hero's journey and transformation that caught my attention. The man who reaches his destination is not exactly the same man who departs from the beginning of the movie as he learns about the message of hate and mutual respect from his interaction with a mix bag of people. It's a moving journey of destiny with strong elements of redemption, self discovery and being human.

As far as the performances are concerned, 'Bhaijaan' (brother) Salman Khan delivers an outstanding performance. His kindness is unmistakably charming. And thanks to actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui's natural sincerity in approaching his role as a Pakistani news reporter, his outstanding performance injects chuckles throughout the film. And of course, there's Harshaali Malthotra, the child actor who plays the mute girl. She's such a professional in front of the camera as she lights up every scene she's in with her smile and vulnerability.
 
From a technical standpoint, the cinematography is top rate and the editing is tight. The use of bright colours and cheerful songs balances the movie from falling into overly emotional territory. Although the ending is a tad melodramatic, don't miss it and go catch it in the cinema now (if you can get tickets!). Warning: Don't peel onions while watching Bajrangi Bhaijaan.

Rating: 9/10

ANT-MAN (2015)

 
Genre: Action/Science fiction
Running Length: 1:57
Cast: Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas, Evangeline Lilly, Corey Stoll, Michael Peña, Bobby Cannavale, Judy Greer, T.I., David Dastmalchian
Director: Peyton Reed
Screenplay: Edgar Wright, Joe Cornish, Adam McKay, Paul Rudd

Marvel's ANT-MAN is a tight and smaller scale movie (see what I just did there...) compared to the other epic and god-like superhero movies. And it packs a lot of heart too. In fact, it seems to share the same template as last year's surprise hit Guardians of the Galaxy:

• It goes for fun over dark brooding drama. 
• It's bright and uses a similar bold color palette. 
• Just like Chris Pratt, Paul Rudd is a likeable and humorous hero (heck, there's even a similar ripped six pack abs side profile shot of the actors in their respective movie trailers)      

I was a little skeptical when I watched the first trailer and not knowing much about the comic book, I thought the name "Ant-Man" was a tad too goofy. But boy was I wrong! The ability to shrink to a size of an insect is actually brilliant and lethal at the same time. The idea is so dangerous that if this technology falls into the hands of the wrong people, it would have serious global consequences. And that's actually the premise of the movie; to break into a high security premise to steal and destroy this technology before our main villain sells it to a bigger bad-der organization. Think of it like the Ocean's Eleven heist of Marvel movies.

What worked in this movie is its great cast. Rudd's comic timing is perfect and he's generally a nice guy who's trying to do the right thing for his daughter. Evangeline Lilly gets me everytime whenever she plays a strong character with scenes where she breaks down emotionally. Michael Pena steals every scene he’s in. And of course, there's Michael Douglas. He still has charisma and he oozes personality. And the action scenes are never too loud and bombastic. The climatic fight scene between Ant-Man and the baddie is ingenious as it switches between their perspective and that of normal-size human scale (and it also involves Thomas The Tank Engine Train). And kudos to the effective use of effects. When our hero shrinks down to size, his surroundings look unbelievably detailed and real.

Indeed, less is more.

Rating: 7.5/10

TERMINATOR: GENISYS (2015)

Genre: Science Fiction/Action

Running Length: 2:05

Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Emilia Clarke, Jason Clarke, Jai Courtney, J.K. Simmons, Matt Smith

Director: Alan Taylor

Screenplay: Laeta Kalogridis and Patrick Lussier

TERMINATOR: GENISYS ignores the existence of Terminator 3 and Terminator Salvation, and sets itself up as a direct sequel of The Terminator and T2: Judgement Day. In fact, it follows so closely to the storyline established by James Cameron that some (younger) audience may find it difficult to follow without having seen the earlier installments. Case in point, the guy sitting next to me in the cinema was providing an express back story to his young-ish girlfriend throughout the film. You know this guy was in for a ride when his gf asked him at the start of the movie, "So, Arnold is a robot-ah?" -__-

Sorry, I digressed. 

So, is this movie any good? Sadly, it's pretty bad. I was hoping it to be a "Jurassic World" where it was an updated version for today's generation while keeping the heart of the original intact. Heck, they even threw in a T-1000 in police uniform for nostalgia. But it just didn't work. To be fair, it tries to reboot the franchise by messing up the timelines (think Back to The Future 2) and having a major twist to the origins of the story. However, the more I kept thinking about it, the more headache inducing I became. James Cameron's Terminator series has a sense of realism to it ie. it can happen in today's context. Its memorable action scenes has a sense of clear and present danger; remember the cop shop killing spree and the lorry vs the little dirt bike viaduct chase scene? In GENISYS, the action is so CGI heavy it's boring; everything gets blown up and helicopters can pull 360 degree flips under bridges. Yawn. 

GENISYS is blessed with a diverse cast. Emilia Clarke's Sarah Connor is serviceable and her presence should attract a legion of Game of Thrones fans while former Doctor Who's Matt Smith should bring along his fan base as well. But this is Arnold Schwarzenegger's show through and through. He is the face of the franchise. Without his presence, this movie will be an outright disaster. The best one-liners, the best fight scenes, and even the film's comedy are reserved for Schwarzenegger. The only time this movie entertains is when Ah-nuld is doing his thing. I think the movie could have benefited if the filmmakers took time to weave the theme of predestination paradox into the storyline (A predestination paradox, also called a causal loop, is a paradox of time travel. A time traveler attempting to alter the past, intentionally or not, would only be fulfilling his role in creating history as we know it, not changing it. It's another way of saying whatever has happened was meant to happen. If it's meant to be, it will be)

Rating: 5.5/10

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