2022 Releases (UK) - Films Watched and to Watch
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- DirectorSam RaimiStarsBenedict CumberbatchElizabeth OlsenChiwetel EjioforDoctor Strange teams up with a mysterious teenage girl who can travel across multiverses, to battle other-universe versions of himself which threaten to wipe out the multiverse. They seek help from the Scarlet Witch, Wong and others.8.2 (8.6)
The MCU's first true horror movie. Brilliantly transforming our empathy for Wanda into distain for the Scarlet Witch - a villain only capable of bringing herself down.
A vicious, incredibly bold multiversal adventure, that's willing to takes risks with the much sought after characters it brings in. America Chavez's debut feature is heartfelt, the surprises are of the scream out loud variety and Wanda's heel turn is handled with finesse and horrifying sequences by Raimi.
Go in with an open mind - it's not what you'll expect and it will be divisive. Other than its slight pacing issues, the glee with which it brutalises characters will be too much for some to take. Be prepared for new territory, this is a séance that blows the multiverse wide open. It's also a bit cringe-worthy at points - but seems pretty self-aware of it. For me, it fumbles it's biggest surprise though - the Illuminati, devaluing the characters it brings in going forward. Yet there is so much to love about this movie - the ending in particular is fantastically handled.
P.S. Next time you dream, tell me you don't wonder if it really is you're alternative self...it totally is. - DirectorTaika WaititiStarsChris HemsworthNatalie PortmanChristian BaleThor enlists the help of Valkyrie, Korg and ex-girlfriend Jane Foster to fight Gorr the God Butcher, who intends to make the gods extinct.7.3 (8.5)
The most disappointing MCU movie of all time. 'Love and Thunder' is littered with wasted opportunities, glazing over everything interesting in search of the next joke. After the reinvigoration Ragnarok was - this should have been the victory lap. Somehow, lightning doesn't strike twice. - DirectorMatt ReevesStarsRobert PattinsonZoë KravitzJeffrey WrightWhen a sadistic serial killer begins murdering key political figures in Gotham, The Batman is forced to investigate the city's hidden corruption and question his family's involvement.8.5 (8.4)
"Those wondering who's under the mask are missing the point."
A unique gothic noir, masquerading as a blockbuster. Pattinson's Batman is a gothic, grounded, brutal iteration of the character which fits the dark, sombre mood Reeves manifests with his direction. Leaning well into the fear it seeks to create, one of the films best choices is to establish the Bat-symbol not as a signal of hope, but as a light of warning...to them.
The film is packed to the brim with villains - without feeling so as each is given meaning in their own aspects of the story. Farrell's Penguin would be entirely unrecognisable if not for his often scene stealing performance, while Dano's Riddler is a sadistic reinvention of one of Batman's most intelligent enemies - comparable to the Zodiac killer, but with an underlying concept of what's right. His final sequence is gripping - giving the first two acts a depth of purpose and putting over to the audience the questionably fine line of vigilante justice.
There are some creative decisions that didn't sit with me on first viewing - that's ok. A film like this is designed to challenge your preconceptions. And it does to the extent that it often feels jarringly unique from its predecessors. Where it particularly excels is in Batman's relationships - particularly his unmistakable red-hot chemistry with Kravitz's Catwoman who just about steals the show.
If there are any drawbacks, they are slight or opinionated. The runtime has been much criticised, and while its methodical pace won't be for everyone, the arc this Batman goes on requires an excessive runtime to really earn the character development. My one negative takeaway was the opportunity I perceived missed by not aligning the worlds of Phoenix's Joker with this one by its end. Given their similar tone, it would've fit naturally and chillingly. Yet, in reflection, I can also now appreciate where they want to take this story instead.
Only time (and sequels) will tell how close this will come to Nolan's 'Dark Knight', but for now just mentioning it in the same ballpark is already a compliment. - DirectorAngus MacLaneStarsChris EvansKeke PalmerPeter SohnWhile spending years attempting to return home, marooned Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear encounters an army of ruthless robots commanded by Zurg who are attempting to steal his fuel source.7.3 (8.3)
Fine...but could have been infinitely better. 'Lightyear' isn't a bad film, but you can't help but feel disappointed with it's lack of ambition given its enticing premise (where were the 90's call-backs?!) Instead of shooting for the stars - it grounds us on one planet, becoming tiringly repetitive after the first acts inspired toying with time dilation (which ironically feels rushed). Most frustrating of all though is its outright dodging of nostalgia when you actually want to see it. Even just a little connection (say, a post credits of Andy leaving the theatre) would have made all the difference. That said, it's still a fun movie that'll make you smile - Sox was awesome! - DirectorColin TrevorrowStarsChris PrattBryce Dallas HowardLaura DernFour years after the destruction of Isla Nublar, Biosyn operatives attempt to track down Maisie Lockwood, while Dr Ellie Sattler investigates a genetically engineered swarm of giant insects.6.3 (7.6)
An underwhelmingly bland, bore of a franchise closer. It's bloated story lacks tension or stakes, instead feeling like an insignificant joy ride through past successes.
Some callbacks are well placed and seeing the old crew share the screen with their new counterparts is cool - yet feels empty. The best part of the movie is how it retcons the clone storyline from 'Fallen Kingdom'. It has some interesting ideas on how a world with reintroduced dinosaurs would react - mostly to capture and breed as weaponry. But ultimately our baddies sparse motives and generic anti-climatic final...bugs make the whole experience spiritless. - DirectorJoseph KosinskiStarsTom CruiseJennifer ConnellyMiles TellerAfter thirty years, Maverick is still pushing the envelope as a top naval aviator, but must confront ghosts of his past when he leads TOP GUN's elite graduates on a mission that demands the ultimate sacrifice from those chosen to fly it.8.5 (7.5)
Immense, thrilling to the core and wildly entertaining, 'Maverick' is a long-belated sequel that plays with nostalgia without bellowing in it, keeping at heart the free spirit the original exuded with such confidence. It's a throwback to a bygone era with just enough parallels and call-backs to chart its own path without leaning too heavily on the past.
Cruise is in his element - stretching his stunts (and that of his co-stars) to the (literal) stratosphere. It's part of what makes this sequel work - wherever possible stunts are performed practically. The commitment of the cast to push their bodies further than any film tends to, allows them the ability to actually play their characters in reality of their situations. The camera work (again - impressively done solo by the cast), will make you feel like you're in the cockpit with them - because you are.
See it on the biggest screen you can, 4DX was insane! - DirectorJames CameronStarsSam WorthingtonZoe SaldanaSigourney WeaverJake Sully lives with his newfound family formed on the extrasolar moon Pandora. Once a familiar threat returns to finish what was previously started, Jake must work with Neytiri and the army of the Na'vi race to protect their home.7.6 (8.0)
An uninspired story and a loooong watch. Yet it does have that blockbuster feel that most are missing nowadays - that should be celebrated (with a narrative note of more ambition). - DirectorRyan CooglerStarsLetitia WrightLupita Nyong'oDanai GuriraThe people of Wakanda fight to protect their home from intervening world powers as they mourn the death of King T'Challa.7.7 (7.9)
During the first act its emotional punch drives it toward the top of MCU triumphs - but it dilutes its excitement with a bland finale. - DirectorDavid O. RussellStarsChristian BaleMargot RobbieJohn David WashingtonIn the 1930s, three friends witness a murder, are framed for it, and uncover one of the most outrageous plots in American history.(8.1)
- DirectorJoseph KosinskiStarsChris HemsworthMiles TellerJurnee SmollettIn the near future, convicts are offered the chance to volunteer as medical subjects to shorten their sentence. One such subject for a new drug capable of generating feelings of love begins questioning the reality of his emotions.6.5 (7.5)
Hemsworth spreads his wings in an enjoyably devilish performance - the ambition of the plot just can't keep up with its two leads.
A fun idea with forgettable execution, unable to get the most from its concept to build intrigue around its mystery, revealing its cards too quickly. Charming at points, yet not subtle enough after its super dark twist. - DirectorDavid Gordon GreenStarsJamie Lee CurtisAndi MatichakJames Jude CourtneyThe saga of Michael Myers and Laurie Strode comes to a spine-chilling climax in the final installment of this trilogy.(7.5)
- DirectorJaume Collet-SerraStarsDwayne JohnsonAldis HodgePierce BrosnanNearly 5,000 years after he was bestowed with the almighty powers of the Egyptian gods--and imprisoned just as quickly--Black Adam is freed from his earthly tomb, ready to unleash his unique form of justice on the modern world.7.5 (7.5)
Not outstanding, but memorable enough to shove the DC universe in an enticing direction. The Rock makes a natural in the superheroic role. - DirectorDaniel EspinosaStarsJared LetoMatt SmithAdria ArjonaBiochemist Michael Morbius tries to cure himself of a rare blood disease, but he inadvertently infects himself with a form of vampirism instead.7.5 (7.4)
Contrary to most reviewers - I enjoyed the approach 'Morbius' took. There's a solid and enjoyably different backstory to behold here, fitting for an anti-hero - cursed by his powers and forced to face a darker version of himself and what he could become without bestowing control. The arc is admittedly unsurprising but its pace never stalls - you're kept wondering what's next constantly.
Yes there is lack of explanation to his specific powers and little elaborated development of why Milo would go so bad so quick - but it's not the 'boring mess' that some are slating it as. Nothing revolutionary, but intriguing and darkly fun nonetheless.
It's biggest blunder was in the post credits scenes - transporting Vulture to this universe for no apparent reason other than it (sort of) fits with their Sinister Six plans (he did actually protect Spidey's identity after all in 'Homecoming'). That said, the darker tone fits perfectly with the character development of a certain other Spidey and would atone for the abandoned trilogy capper from the 'Amazing' series. - DirectorAdrian LyneStarsBen AffleckAna de ArmasTracy LettsA well-to-do husband who allows his wife to have affairs in order to avoid a divorce becomes a prime suspect in the disappearance of her lovers.7.4 (7.5)
Unfairly bashed, think 'Gone Girl' meets open relationships. An undeniably sexy Ana de Armas has a fiery, dangerous chemistry with Ben Affleck which sizzles throughout. Her character doesn't learn from her promiscuous demeanour, and seems to gain a satisfaction from knowing the lengths her husband will go for her devotion. This could have been on a par with Gone Girl - had they made some slightly different narrative decisions (and not chopped the ending to bits in the cutting room). - DirectorJeff TremaineStarsJohnny KnoxvilleSteve-OChris PontiusAfter 11 years, the Jackass crew is back for another crusade.7.6 (7.5)
The most I've ever winced and laughed hysterically during the same movie - you'll be in stiches the whole way through! 'Jackass Forever' is just as repulsive as ever - and the brazen laugh that we all need to finally move on from this pandemic.
There are so many memorable stunts throughout (no less than its brilliant Godzilla-esque opener) you'll be chatting them through, ranking them in order of stupidity and hilarity the entire ride home. - DirectorKenneth BranaghStarsTom BatemanAnnette BeningKenneth BranaghWhile on vacation on the Nile, Hercule Poirot must investigate the murder of a young heiress.7.1 (7.8)
It's stylish, better than its predecessor and confident in its portrayal of Poirot. It's almost pretty good - if only it hadn't taken so long with its build up to test even the most patient of viewers. Despite a strong story, by the end, the twist becomes just a little too obvious. - DirectorJames GunnStarsLuke KleinSean GunnMichael RookerStar-Lord, Drax, Rocket, Mantis, and Groot engage in some spirited shenanigans in an all-new original special created for Disney+.7.3 (8.0)
Not bad, just underwhelming. This holiday special is a fun check-in with the characters, shining a refreshing light on Mantis. Its effort at 'heartfelt' just feels a little less than authentic. - DirectorDavid YatesStarsEddie RedmayneJude LawEzra MillerAlbus Dumbledore knows that Gellert Grindelwald is moving to take control of the wizarding world. Unable to stop him alone, he asks Newt Scamander to lead an intrepid team on a dangerous mission.7.1 (7.6)
It has elements of what 'Fantastic Beasts' could be - but sparingly utilises them. Their wands could be light-sabers without losing much - there are no spells or charms spoken, just a swish and an overuse of port keys. All backstory yet still feeling devoid of perspective. One of its more inventive plots is to confuse Grindelwald - which seems fun at first...never to be referenced again. Newt (as ever) is the best character in this franchise - his awkward yet heartfelt perspective lightens the series darkest scene in a prison which is surely worse than Azkaban. Despite celebrating Dumbledore's sexuality, admirably weaving it into the story's DNA, the overall plot is spread too thin over its extensive runtime - becoming boring and unfocused at points, even anticlimactic as Grindelwald escapes punishment. Cowardly, it sacrifices and sidelines previous lead characters in favour of making Potter alumni central. An acceptable sequel that will still be fun for Potter fans - but a big rethink is required if they are to make it anywhere close to HP's level. - DirectorRobert EggersStarsAlexander SkarsgårdNicole KidmanClaes BangA young Viking prince is on a quest to avenge his father's murder.8.5 (7.5)
Authentic and visceral, its artsy style will not be for everyone but if you can embrace the chaos - it's a bloody masterpiece of a revenge thriller.
A real surprise - though in retrospect, I'm not sure why I underestimated Eggars so much. - DirectorDavid LeitchStarsBrad PittJoey KingAaron Taylor-JohnsonFive assassins aboard a swiftly-moving bullet train find out that their missions have something in common.7.6 (7.5)
Such a fun watch! An enjoyable action movie that runs multiple perspectives simultaneously, littering backstory throughout to give the whole thing context. The ensemble cast are great together. Feels like one I'll revisit often! - DirectorDexter FletcherStarsRobert Downey Jr.Eddie MarsanJude LawThe plot is unknown at this time.(7.8)
- Plot unknown. A reboot of the epic animated 'Shrek' franchise.(7.1)
- DirectorTom GormicanStarsNicolas CagePedro PascalTiffany HaddishMoviestar Nick Cage is channeling his iconic characters as he's caught between a superfan and a CIA agent.7.5
A film to make you self-reflect on your own narcissistic tendencies - and laugh out loud as you do. Meta as hell with a Nick Cage happy to make fun of himself, it has a creative arc that even admits to itself, wouldn't work without car chases and explosions. It isn't quite perfect - but it has all the traits of a cult classic. - DirectorAaron NeeAdam NeeStarsSandra BullockChanning TatumDaniel RadcliffeA reclusive romance novelist on a book tour with her cover model gets swept up in a kidnapping attempt that lands them both in a cutthroat jungle adventure.7.5 (7.1)
Wildly entertaining, hilarious at points and wholly recommendable - Tatum and Bullock are a surprising laugh-out-loud duo on a heartfelt mission that proves the 'com-rom' ain't dead. - StarsPeter DinklageJamie FoxxA gang of American bandits try to elude bounty hunters during the waning days of the wild West. A remake of the 1969 film directed by Sam Peckinpah.(7.8)