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Fruitvale Station (2013)
A great retelling in memory of Oscar Grant III
Fruitvale Station follows the last moments before Oscar Grant III's tragic death.
This is the directorial debut of Ryan Coogler, who has worked on Creed and Black Panther. Michael B. Jordan (who also stars in Creed and Black Panther) plays Oscar Grant III, and I think he did a really great job in the role. You can feel the emotional pain and struggles he goes through. But he doesn't show that side when interacting with other people because he wants them to be happy.
Knowing what this movie is about makes watching it harder and harder. Yes, it's a movie and they have to add some dramatic moments but through research, I learned that Ryan Coogler didn't go too far off with what really happened on Oscar Grant's last day. The movie feels very real with the way the story is told and how it's filmed. You watch Oscar Grant go through his day leading to his final moments, and it doesn't need to have a plot. The movie is filmed in a way that feels like a documentary because the camera just follows the characters around with very little edits and kind of shaky at times.
And when the tragic event happened in the movie, I still felt shocked and empty. They don't shy away from showing what happens and it makes it more real. It is something that happened, and it's an accurate representation of what goes on in the world. This movie came out in 2013 and to this day, it's still relevant.
Fruitvale Station is not meant to entertain. It's to raise awareness of the many issues in the world, while honouring the memory of Oscar Grant III. Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan are a great duo who work well together. Whether you know about the real story of Oscar Grant III or not before watching this movie, this movie is still emotional in different ways. It's definitely a must watch.
The Assistant (2019)
A very real movie with real issues
The Assistant is an interesting film that takes place over one whole day in the life of Jane, the title character. There's not much I can say about this film because it really does just take a look at how her day goes from leaving work to leaving work.
As we watch Jane's day, you see the type of things she has to deal with from being unappreciated, being left out by her coworkers, having to deal with verbal abuse, etc. As you watch this, it'll feel very real even if you don't experience it or see it yourself. Even how she deals with it feels very realistic in the world we live in today.
Just a heads up, this is a very slow movie because you're just watching Jane's day go by. It's one of those movies with long shots where the camera is usually just set in one place for a whole scene. It's not a thrilling or that engaging of a film, but it is interesting. I would say it picks up a little more halfway through but not much. You just gotta have that expectation before going into the movie.
This film isn't for everyone, but if you're somewhat interested after reading this, I say give it a try. It's only about an hour and a half, so it won't take up much of your time. It tackles real life issues while making it still feel real. It doesn't do anything that makes you feel like you're watching a movie, if you get what I mean. And I appreciate it for that.
Mulan (2020)
I paid $34.99 + tax for Mulan so you wouldn't have to
DO NOT go into this movie expecting the animated film. Most of you already know from the trailers there's no Mushu and no songs. You can tell that they're doing something different so you need to try to go into this movie with an open mind as much as you can.
That being said, this movie was disappointing to me. It tries to blend the old Chinese legend of Mulan with the animated film and it doesn't work. I would've liked if they only focused on one. Even if they just made a literal live-action movie of the animated one with little changes (like Beauty and the Beast, or Aladdin), at least it would feel like a complete story. I wish they focused more on the legend so it would at least feel different and new.
Most of the behind the scenes crew are non-Asian people, specifically white and it sucks that that's the case. Yes, they have an all Asian cast but I don't feel a celebration like how Crazy Rich Asians felt. I just didn't feel for the characters too much, and the writing didn't help as well. I also feel that they were a lot of things cut from this movie. There are so many moments where a scene ends abruptly, and when they go to the next one, it feels like you're in the middle of it.
I could go on but the rest makes more sense once you actually watch, which I DON'T recommend. At least, don't pay $34.99 for it. It's coming to Disney+ with no extra cost on Dec 4, so I say wait until then if you really want to watch it.
All Together Now (2020)
The pieces of my heart need to come back all together NOW
Netflix's recent movie, All Together Now is a coming-of-age drama about a high school senior who is trying to make the best of her life given certain circumstances. I don't want to say too much.
The opening of the movie starts on a happy mood, so I was expecting that kind of energy but NOPE. Our main character, Amber, is played by Auli'i Cravalho (voice of Moana), and this role really proved she deserves to play more serious roles. The heart of the movie lies with the character of Amber. I just kept wanting the best for her, but the story was just not letting it happen. With each obstacle, you see Amber try to overcome it, but life keeps throwing curveballs and at one moment, I said out loud "whhhhy, she's been through enough!"
Justina Machado plays Amber's mom, Becky. I've only see this actress in Jane the Virgin, where she played a comedic yet serious role at times. And again, this movie lets the cast show off their range in acting. I feel the emotion between Becky and Amber's relationship, even if I can't relate to it.
Just a minor problem I have is that the movie feels a little short. It's based on a novel so I understand that things were probably cut out for the movie. There were just some plot points that I wish were expanded on more.
All in all, I really like this movie, as sad as it is. This is definitely something I will come back to when I'm feeling a certain way. Besides Auli'i and Justina, the cast is great and the emotions are definitely there. There is a song that Auli'i sings here (Feels Like Home) that's available on music streaming services, so I also recommend listening to that because it really captures the film
The Black Cauldron (1985)
I have joined the cult following of this film
You know about Disney's Princess movies, you know about their iconic songs, but you've probably never heard of the film The Black Cauldron. This was Disney's 25th animated feature film so it definitely had a lot of pressure to make an impression for the audience. Let's just say, it did not live up to those expectations....for them.
But I actually really like this movie! It's a fantasy movie that takes place in the Middle Ages. It deals with an evil king who wants to raise the dead with a magic cauldron, so our main characters who are made up of a young kid, a princess, an old man, and a small creature have to stop him. If it sounds like a weird group, they are LOL but somehow it just works, in my opinion.
This movie is definitely one of Disney's darker films because of its tone, villain, and story. Btw it's the first Disney animated film to be rated PG. I can imagine this movie traumatized the kids who watched it because of how different it is from the classic Disney movies we all know and love
I watched this on Disney+ and it really looked good to me in this HD format. I liked the visuals in it, especially any scene with the villain, the Horned King. He's usually in shadow, but when you see him more and more, you can't help but be creeped out, even a little. It also helps that he's voiced by the late John Hurt, who had such a unique and powerful voice, without even having to yell.
All in all, this movie isn't for everyone. I wasn't sure that I was gonna like it because I'm not into the fantasy genre, but it kept me interested the whole time. The villain is the biggest highlight for me. I say give it a try! It's an underrated Disney movie and if you have Disney+, why not??
Project Power (2020)
Project Power. Is it an upper or a downer?
This original movie deals with a drug that can give the user a random power, but only for 5 minutes.
That premise alone sounds really interesting. But they got Jamie Foxx and Joseph Gordon-Levitt? Now you know I'm watching it. Even though they already were in superhero movies, this movie proves that they need to be in more. They do a great job playing their roles, and they look pretty badass doing so. Especially Jamie Foxx (if you know, you know).
I personally haven't seen Dominique Fishback in anything before, but I'd like to see her in more roles too. I can tell she's talented, especially when it comes to emotional scenes.
Now those were the highs, but here we go to the lows:
As I was watching this, I kept thinking that the premise is interesting enough to be a Netflix show. A short season of episodes, maybe 45 mins-1 hour for each one-something like that.
I don't want to spoil too much, but this movie had corrupt cops, teenage drug dealers, and a full on government conspiracy. I just wish we spent more time dealing with these issues. That's why I really wish this could've been a show.
Even with all this, I still liked the movie. There were some good action scenes and the cast played their parts well. Netflix can easily continue this, BUT AS A SHOW PLEASE. You don't need the actors to come back for it, but they can be mentioned. There's so much potential to tell and expand on the stories in this world, and deal with the issues that were brought up here.
Little Women (2019)
They may be Little Women, but they have the biggest hearts
I remember seeing the trailer for this movie and just wanting to watch it because of the cast, and didn't pay much attention to the plot. Before (eventually) watching this movie, I assumed it took place a long time ago in England. So I was caught off guard when I head American accents coming from the cast LOL
I will say the dialogue wasn't hard to follow either. Usually with films set in a period like this one, I'd expect something like "oh how thou do tis day" (imagine that said with a British accent) if you get what I mean.
The story of the Little Women feels very wholesome and authentic. As soon as I saw their family dynamic, I had a smile on my face. Yeah, they can be chaotic sometimes, but what house with 4 young women wouldn't be? They all have different ideas of the lives they want to live, and it's nice to see how they try to reach their goals.
I will say, I'm not sure if I feel completely satisfied with the ending because it felt like it didn't line up with who the character was. But that goes to show how much I cared for them. I wanted the best for everyone, but obviously things don't always work out and the film really made me feel sad, in a good way (if that makes sense).
I really enjoy this movie, and it's probably something I'll watch again in the future when I want something to watch that feels real and sweet.
Majo no takkyûbin (1989)
One of the most amazing and wholesome movies
Kiki's Delivery Service is such a fun and heartwarming movie that it's become of my favourite movies overall! It may sound like I'm exaggerating, but omg I teared up at parts of the movie where it was just a happy scene that wasn't made to make people cry. I was just so happy to see Kiki, the main character, fly through the air.
The music definitely help during those moments and was probably the reason why it felt more powerful. The music is done by Joe Hisaishi, and he really captures the emotions well without even hearing the character talk. When we see Kiki fly, the music can be uplifting or very casual. If my life could have a soundtrack, I would use the music from this movie.
I've only seen a few Studio Ghibli movies, but after seeing this, I'm hopeful to see if I can connect this much to any of the other ones. The animation looks really good for a movie that came out in 1989, and it still holds up. If you haven't seen this, I recommend checking it out! If you have already, give it a rewatch too!
Searching (2018)
A very unique way of storytelling
Searching is a mystery thriller film starring John Cho, and written by Aneesh Chaganty who also directed this as his first feature film. The whole movie is presented through electronic screens in a very creative way (If you have seen season 6 episode 16 of Modern Family, it is similar to that).
The plot is that a father (John Cho) is trying to help find his 16 year old daughter (Michelle La) who went missing. The problem with watching at home is that I could get easily distracted or go on my phone, but during the whole movie, I was very immersed into the mystery. With the way it was presented, I felt like I was part of the movie. I like the way the movie sets up different things and makes you suspect certain people. With mysteries, there's a possibility that the answers may not be satisfying but I found it went really well in this movie.
I really only knew John Cho from the Harold and Kumar movies, so seeing him in this role was like seeing a completely different person. John Cho does a really great job at playing the worried father who will do anything to find his daughter. Within the first 10 minutes or so, I already felt sympathy for his character.
In my own opinion, Searching is one of the most interesting films I've ever seen. It may take a while to get used to how the film is presented, but I think it works well, especially in this day and age of technology. I highly recommend it for anyone who likes a good mystery.
Defending Jacob (2020)
interesting mystery but slow at times
Defending Jacob is an Apple TV+ series based on the novel with the same name. The premise deals with a 14 year old boy who gets accused of murdering one of his classmates, and how he and his parents deal with it.
The show starts off well with building suspense and establishing the family relationship, but it starts to slow down after 3 episodes. I appreciate that they try to show how the case affects the lives of the family with their jobs, friends, and even their stability. But I feel they could have done that much better with less episodes. That time could have been devoted to the courtroom and crime aspects because those moments are where the show shined best.
Jaeden Martell (young Bill from It & It: Chapter Two) plays Jacob in the show. Jaeden's performance shows that he can be the innocent kid we feel bad for, but there are times where you wonder if there's a darker side to him.
Michelle Dockery (Lady Mary from Downton Abbey) plays Jacob's mom, Laurie. She is probably the most mentally and emotionally affected by the accusation against Jacob. She even begins to question if Jacob is really capable of something so bad.
Chris Evans (no credits needed), plays Jacob's dad, Andy. I may be biased but I enjoyed his character's arc the most. You can see how Andy is willing to do whatever it takes to prove his son's innocence, while still keeping the family dynamic strong during a hard time.
Now that the first season is done, there is potential for a second one but I'd rather they end it here. I do recommend checking it out because it is a good mystery, with dramatic elements that are performed well from the cast.
Disney's Newsies: The Broadway Musical (2017)
better than the actual movie
Newsies: The Musical is based on the film Newsies, which was based on real events in history. The story looks at the newsboys strike that took place in New York City in 1899. In this reflection, I'll be focusing more on the musical recording rather than the movie itself.
The music is done by Alan Menken, notable for many iconic Disney songs, and lyrics done by Jack Feldman. Once the musical began, I was getting goosebumps. I may not love all the songs, but that doesn't mean they aren't good. I enjoy them all on different levels, especially the ones that have most of the cast featured on them. Those songs motivate me and get me really excited.
It doesn't take long for the choreography to really stand out with the cast and ensemble jumping all over the stage, while still giving it their all when they sing. I was already awestruck watching this at home through a screen, so I can't imagine what this would be like in person.
I can't talk about this musical without bringing up Jeremy Jordan, who plays the main character of the story. From the first song, he won me over. His voice is powerful and really makes you feel the emotions that his character goes through. I wasn't seeing him as an actor, but as the character.
This musical is funny, empowering, entertaining, and will put a smile on your face by the end (if you haven't been smiling the whole time). I highly recommend checking it out if you're a fan of musicals and/or Disney.
Deadly Class (2018)
worth checking out even if it is 1 season
Deadly Class is a tv show based on the comic book series with the same name. It's about teenagers who attend a secret school where they learn different skills to help them become assassins. This show still has teenage drama, but it's interesting how the show does it considering these teens will actually try to kill each other. The action is pretty great, as it should be since the show was produced by Joe and Anthony Russo (i.e. directors of Infinity War and Endgame). There are times where the show can get a little intense in terms of action, gore, and other things I'd rather not spoil. I definitely found myself having to look away at certain parts because of it. But that's not all this show is. They tackle themes of class status and politics, while also asking philosophical questions. I wasn't expecting that, but I respect the show for trying to teach its viewers something.
As I went through the show, I found myself caring about different characters. The show does well in providing emotional backstories for almost every single person, even the ones you shouldn't like. For most of the flashbacks, they animate it in the style of the comic book, which looks really great. It also works well because some of the flashbacks can get pretty gruesome, and the show probably wouldn't get away with showing all of that if it wasn't animated.
Unfortunately, this show got cancelled after only one season, with 10 episodes. It's been about a year since the show "ended", and still no word on any revival, which sucks considering how the finale went. With that being said, I still enjoyed the show and I do recommend it because it really is fun and interesting.
Outer Banks (2020)
More depth than you'd expect from the poster
Outer Banks is your regular teen drama show with all the tropes and cliches you'd expect. Rebellious teens, drugs, love triangles, sex, lack of effort from the police, etc. When I watched the first episode, I couldn't really care for most of the characters. There's a mystery/conspiracy that's built up in the first episode, which kept me intrigued for what the rest of the season would be. As more things were revealed, I became more invested in this show. It wasn't until the 5th episode (out of 10) when I started really caring for more characters and what would happen to them. There are interesting themes and character arcs that I wasn't expecting for a typical teen show, and I think they pull it off well. If you're willing to past a lot of problems in the first episode, it'll be worth sticking with the show. I probably wouldn't watch this based on the promos, but I don't regret giving it a try. It's not a show for everyone so that's why it's hard for me to recommend it.
Bates Motel (2013)
Creepy and eerie, but worth the watch
Bates Motel is a tv show based on the 1960 film, Psycho. I tried watching this before but found it a little uncomfortable. So I watched Psycho, which is one of my favourite films of all time now. I chose to go back and watch this show to see what a prequel in the modern world would be like. Looking back, there are some storylines that were unnecessary to characters' arcs or development. But it did go by fast with 5 seasons and 10 episodes each.
Emma DeCody, player by Olivia Cooke, had the least amount of development but deserved more.
Dylan Massett, played by Max Thieriot, is realistic and grew the most through his storylines.
Alex Romero, played by Nestor Carbonell, was someone I wasn't expecting to like but ended up being my favourite because of how badass he was.
Norma Bates, played by Vera Farmiga, is a damaged but powerful character. She is an amazing actress who gives it her all with so much emotion.
Norman Bates, played by Freddie Highmore is indescribable. He is the best actor on this show who can play the innocent polite guy, but turn around and stab you in the back. The lengths he goes to in the role is insane. You can't help but feel bad for him, but also be scared of him.
If you're looking for a thrilling show that's binge worthy, Bates Motel is it. I just wish some plots were cut or went into a different direction.
Doctor Sleep (2019)
A good follow up to The Shining
Doctor Sleep is based on the novel with the same name by Stephen King. Like the novel, this is a direct sequel to The Shining. Doctor Sleep is a good continuation that builds upon the premise set in The Shining by adding history and a set of interesting characters. I did watch the director's cut of this film, which is about 3 hours long, but it didn't feel like that at all. I can't imagine watching the original cut because this version really provides context and more depth to the characters. If anything, I wanted more. The main cast does a good part portraying their characters, especially Rebecca Ferguson as the antagonist, and Ewan McGregor as a damaged man with a good character arc. This is directed by Mike Flanagan, who has directed Hush, Gerald's Game and episodes of The Haunting of Hill House. If you like any of those and have watched The Shining, definitely check out Doctor Sleep.
Se7en (1995)
A very interesting mystery film with a cool premise
Seven is a mystery thriller with an interesting premise, which you should not look into before watching this. If you've seen Zodiac or Gone Girl, you'll like the feel of this movie (especially since they're all directed by David Fincher). The mystery surrounding this movie had me intrigued and was building up well. The ending was not what I was expecting but I think it was a good conclusion. Morgan Freeman is his same amazing self, and Brad Pitt does really well in his role. There is one more actor who sold his part well, but I don't want to spoil who that is. The score by Howard Shore fits well too. I would definitely rewatch this because there are definitely things to pick up on.
High School Musical: The Musical - The Series (2019)
A nice homage doing its own thing
In my opinion, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series is more than just a homage to original movies. Many of the characters are likeable and feel real, especially with the issues they deal with. It's funny that I enjoy all of the original songs way more than this show's version of the original songs. That's why I feel like this show is more than what the movies are (hot take). If you haven't checked out this series, give the first two episodes a shot and see how you feel.