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Archives for : Deadpool

Top 10 Best Films of 2024

10. Deadpool & Wolverine – We still need a break from superhero movies and from the multiverse/timeline plots, but this film isn’t a formulaic Marvel movie. Some might even complain that there is no narrative, but that seems to be director Shawn Levy’s intent. “Deadpool & Wolverine” is meant to make fun of the over bloated superhero films and the mistakes of studios, while paying homage to the former X-Men universe. Not to say there isn’t a story, it’s just more along the lines of a high-quality spoof w/ a ton of A-list actors. Plus, the hilarious, on-screen chemistry between the dynamic duo (Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds) exceeded all my expectations.

9. A Real Pain- Jesse Eisenberg’s sophomore directorial effort, “A Real Pain” follows opposite cousins David and Benji who reunite for a tour through Poland to honor their beloved grandmother. But their adventure takes a turn when tensions between the two resurface. The pain both characters go through impressively speaks louder from their actions and sometimes silence, more than any words they express to each other. “A Real Pain” is a sincere and thought-provoking, emotional journey that is elevated by the film’s beautiful and unforgettable performances, especially by Kieran Culkin. It’s a rare gem that has stayed with me all year.

8. Inside Out 2- The sheer genius of turning our emotions into loveable characters was enough to make you fall in love with the magic of the first “Inside Out”. In this sequel, we follow Riley as she enters her teen years and makes room for new emotions like Anxiety. It can be therapeutic and beneficial to see the portrayal of an emotion that everyone can relate to, but do not often talk about. The film still sparkles from its lovable characters and provides a family-friendly avenue to discuss feelings and mental health with loved ones.

7. Dune: Part Two- I didn’t care for “Dune: Part One”. It was long and barely anything happened. It was all set-up and when we were finally getting somewhere good, the film abruptly stops and leaves us with a big “To Be Continued”. Luckily, the action and storytelling we were craving in the first movie is all in “Dune: Part Two”. The second installment picks up where it left off with Paul uniting with Chani and the Fremen to seek revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Director and co-writer, Denis Villeneuve properly brings this science fiction novel to life. Beginning with the mesmerizing world he has created. Desert sand has never looked this attractive swirling through the winds and fight sequences, paired with a roaring soundtrack that will make you feel as if you are in the movie. The set is immersive and the work that has gone into this imaginative society is engaging, especially the cinematography by Greig Fraser.

6. The Substance – “The Substance” follows an aging celebrity, who takes an underground drug: a cell-replicating substance that temporarily creates a younger, better version of herself. I’m always a fan of an original story with a powerful message, and this one is about as unique as they come. It’s grossly entertaining and not for the weak stomach. Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley are captivating from start to finish. The two give phenomenal physically demanding performances, and Director/Writer Coralie Fargeat cleverly portrays the struggles women face to remain relevant and “youthful” in Hollywood.

5. My Old Ass – A coming-of-age story about a young girl who meets her 39-year-old self while tripping on mushrooms. The older version of herself, hilariously played by Aubrey Plaza, delivers a warning about her future that causes her to rethink everything about her family, life, and love. While Plaza is fantastic in the film, Maisy Stella gives an unforgettable breakout performance that will make you laugh and cry. “My Old Ass” is another original gem that we were treated to this year by Director/Writer Megan Park, who authentically captures how bittersweet it is to grow up, the risks of a first love, and the many things we take for granted when we’re young.

4. Twisters – Like most sequels, I always proceed with caution. However, the charm of Glen Powell and the patience of waiting decades to create a well-crafted sequel to the effect of “Top Gun: Maverick”, makes this movie a success. The talented stars of “Twisters”, including Powell, Daisy Edgar-Jones, and Anthony Ramos, already give this film an advantage. But the key to this enjoyable watch, much like its predecessor, is how the film takes a simple and relatable concept, like chasing tornadoes; and adds a lot of heart because they are trying to help people. After laying that groundwork, they focus on what made the first film so memorable, the special effects and action. And I can confidently say, director Lee Issac Chung delivers on all counts, pulling audiences in from its opening scene and taking us on an exhilarating ride of breathtaking visuals.

3. Wicked- With all the praise surrounding this film, it should come as no surprise that I would have it at such a high spot. It is a vibrant reimagining of the classic Wizard of Oz movie and spotlights the untold origin story of the Wicked Witch of the West and her once dear friend, Glinda the Good Witch. In many ways, I enjoyed this story more. It raises the questions -Are people born evil? Are those who claim to be heroes genuinely good? But most importantly, it sends a powerful message about not judging people before getting know them firsthand. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande pour their hearts into an unforgettable, award worthy performance. “Wicked is a beautiful, moving musical that undeniably defies gravity.

2. Emilia Perez – I went in completely blind before watching “Emilia Perez”, only knowing it was an indescribable musical, comedy, thriller with a stellar cast. I came out of it blown away by the incredible performances of its three leading ladies: Zoe Saldana, Karla Sofia Gascon, and Selena Gomez. The film’s unbelievably thrilling twists and turns made for one of my favorite cinematic experiences. For those who may not know, the movie is about a cartel leader, who enlists an unappreciated lawyer, to help fake her death so that she can finally live authentically as her true self. It’s a wild ride that not everyone will want to take, but I thoroughly enjoyed it, especially, seeing Saldana slay in a role that proves she’s a show-stopping, versatile talent.

1. Scrambled- Many of you may not have heard about this one. After being treated to it earlier this year and getting to speak with filmmaker, Leah McKendrick, I have not forgotten the emotional impact this film had on me. “Scrambled” is about a thirty-something eternal bridesmaid that is being pressured to have kids and settle down. Still single and only getting older, she decides it’s best to freeze her eggs. This leads her on an empowering, and hilarious, journey of self-discovery. The movie is relatable to anyone who has felt like they are running out of time or trying to catch up to friends who are getting married, having kids, or just moving forward in life. But at the same time, there is an inspiring and beautiful representation of what it means to be a true friend, someone who is happy for you at your highs even when they may be at their low. The film also offers a genuine portrayal of IVF that is lacking in Hollywood. McKendrick uses her personal egg freezing journey to share a witty, heartfelt story that will stay with me forever.

The Rest of the Best:

11. Late Night with the Devil

12. Saturday Night

13. Blink Twice

14. Conclave

15. The Last Showgirl

16. Thelma

17. The Fall Guy

18. Woman of the Hour

19. Fresh Kills

20. Amber Alert

Top 5 Worst Film of 2024

5. Drive-Away Dolls – Too ridiculous to take seriously or even watch.

4. Rumors – Made no sense, felt like a bad Shakespearian play.

3. Night Swim – “Don’t look back” and don’t look AT this movie. EVER!

2. Megalopolis – Don’t let the negative reviews fool you, this film is far worse than what critics are saying.

1. Madam Web – OOF! Not only did they ruin a Britney Spears song, but they also hurt four talented actors, who suffered from a painful, lazy script, and terrible filmmaking.

Trevor’s Top 10

10. Alien: Romulus

9. Blink Twice

8. The Order

7. Saturday Night

6. Late Night with the Devil

5. A Real Pain

4. Civil War

3. A Complete Unknown

2. Deadpool & Wolverine

1. Dune: Part Two

Movie Review: “Deadpool & Wolverine”

The idea of Deadpool and Wolverine starring in a film together has been teased for years, and now that dream is coming to fruition with the action-packed and hilarious new Marvel movie.

In the film, Deadpool’s peaceful existence comes crashing down when the Time Variance Authority, also known as the TVA, recruits him to help safeguard the multiverse, which requires him to bring back one of the living Wolverines from a different timeline. As expected, the two butt heads immediately and struggle to work as team to take down their common enemy. But as they go on a mission filled with throwback MCU characters and numerous obstacles, they learn the two have more in common then they think.

We still need a break from superhero movies and from the multiverse/timeline plots, but this film isn’t a formulaic Marvel movie. Some might even complain that there is no narrative, but that seems to director Shawn Levy’s intent. “Deadpool & Wolverine” is meant to make fun of the over bloated superhero films and the mistakes of studios, while paying homage to the former X-Men universe that has created iconic movies, good and bad, featuring memorable characters we will forever hold dear to our hearts. Not to say there isn’t a story, it’s just more along the lines of a high-quality spoof w/ a ton of A-list actors. The on-screen chemistry between Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds is enough to make this a must-see.

And while the plot won’t really stick with you, the fight sequences paired with one of the best soundtracks will, proving Madonna’s “Like A Prayer” has powerful effect when it is played in any circumstance. Deadpool & Wolverine is non-stop laughs, surprises, and fun. The dynamic duo we have been waiting for delivers with energetic, witty, and unforgettable performances that leave you wanting more.

Rating: B+

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Top 10 Best Films of 2016

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10. The Edge of Seventeen

As a fan of John Hughes and really any High School teen angst film, this movie was always going to be my cup of tea. But, what’s so refreshing about The Edge of Seventeen is its more realistic take on an extremely socially awkward girl who’s struggling to get through High School. As embarrassing and uncomfortable some of the scenes might be, they never veer into non-genuine territory.

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9. La La Land

I’m always a sucker for a story that is about following your dreams. La La Land is a whimsical movie that takes an overused plot and turns it into a vibrant and colorful musical. It is a wonderful reminiscence of the once popular classic musical genre. But it’s the always magnetic chemistry between Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, who nail their on-screen romance for a third time that makes the film what it is–A True Hollywood Delight.

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8. Sully

Initially when I heard this film was being made, I thought, “Why?! What’s the point?” Given, that this is the story of Chelsey Sullenberg, the pilot who landed his damaged plane in the Hudson River and saved everyone on board. It hardly seemed like an exciting story to tell. Well, thank goodness, this film was made! Clint Eastwood (My favorite director of the year) brilliantly recounts the events by scattering the plane’s crash throughout the film using flashbacks. Through this edit, the film never feels slow or boring. But more importantly, it’s uplifting to see a movie based on a true “almost tragedy” where no one dies, there’s no shooting, and no explosions. Sully is a reminder that there are heroes, and believe it or not, there is positive news in the media.

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7. 20th Century Women

Annette Bening truly shines as a leading lady in this film. Along with this amazing ensemble cast, 20th Century Women is another great addition to the coming-of-age genre. A tender, introspective film about a young boy and the three women who influenced his life.  

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6. Deadpool

Let’s put aside the fact that this was Ryan Reynolds passion project, and it’s the first R-rated Marvel movie. What’s so great about Deadpool is how self-aware it is (i.e. the opening credits). He is the only Marvel character who breaks the fourth wall and talks to the audience, allowing him to make fun of the film. And oh, how funny this film is.  Deadpool was a risk that fully paid off and thoroughly entertained.

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5. Nocturnal Animals

Designer Tom Ford’s shockingly deep and clever screenplay still amazes me. Featuring some of the best performances by Jake Gyllehaal, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Ford uses his gift of striking visuals to create a sexy, mesmerizing story about past loves, regrets, aspirations, and revenge.

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4. Zootopia

For those who haven’t seen Zootopia yet, the film is much more than the trailer perceives. Though the big picture theme of going after impossible goals will have kids entertained, adults young and old can appreciate the message of fighting stereotypes and other social issues of today that are so well represented in this charming animated feature. 

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3. Captain America: Civil War

There is so much to admire about Captain America: Civil War. There are many layers to this thought-provoking story, which still has me debating whose right and whose wrong. Should superheroes be above the law?  Is defeating a villain worth an innocent life? The execution of this premise brilliantly told through a smart script, and a well-focused direction is why Captain America: Civil War stands out above other superhero movies.

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2. Manchester by the Sea

Though we’ve seen a few films take on the subject matter of someone becoming the guardian of a kid after their parents’ passing, we have yet to see it done so masterfully. Manchester by the Sea is a gut-wrenching story about painful losses, that’s cut with elements of humor and laughter. The film is enhanced by its rich and well developed characters. Casey Affleck gives his best performance yet, which is sure to earn him an Oscar nod and a very likely deserving win. 

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1. Don’t Think Twice
It was tough to pick this top spot, but ultimately, I went with the film that hit close to home and had me crying during and after the movie was over. Don’t Think Twice is a dark comedy about a group of best friends who preform improv together at a popular New York City comedy club. They are all chasing after the same goal, to become part of New York’s hit sketch comedy series, Weekend Live. But when only one of them lands a spot on the TV show, it not only changes the group dynamic but also puts everyone else’s life in perspective, questioning whether or not everyone in the group is capable of achieving their dream job. It’s a relatable story for anyone who struggles to have a career in what they are passionate about.

The Rest of the Films that Deserve Recognition:

11. Captain Fantastic
12. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
13. The Handmaiden
14. The Jungle Book
15. Moana
16. A Monster Calls
17. The Invitation
18. The Magnificent Seven
19. My Blind Brother
20. Arrival

Top 5 Worst Films of 2016

5. American Honey – Too long and too much of nothing.

4. Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk – Vin Diesel’s performance alone made this film beyond cringe-worthy.

3. Independence Day: Resurgence – Overflows with cheesy lines and just so, so stupid.

2. Jack Reacher: Never Go Back – A HORRID father/daughter subplot that overshadows the entire film.

1. Zoolander 2 – How dare this movie be made!

74th Annual Golden Globe Nominations!

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Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy

  • 20th Century Women
  • Deadpool
  • Florence Foster Jenkins
  • La La Land
  • Sing Street

 

Best Actress in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy

  • Annette Bening – 20th Century Women
  • Lily Collins – Rules Don’t Apply
  • Hailee Steinfeld – The Edge of Seventeen
  • Emma Stone – La La Land
  • Meryl Streep – Florence Foster Jenkins

 

Best Actor in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy

  • Colin Farrell – The Lobster
  • Ryan Gosling – La La Land
  • Hugh Grant – Florence Foster Jenkins
  • Jonah Hill – War Dogs
  • Ryan Reynolds – Deadpool

 

Best Motion Picture, Drama

  • Hacksaw Ridge
  • Hell or High Water
  • Lion
  • Manchester by the Sea
  • Moonlight

 

Best Actress in a Motion Picture, Drama

  • Amy Adams – Arrival
  • Jessica Chastain – Miss Sloane
  • Isabelle Huppert – Elle
  • Ruth Negga – Loving
  • Natalie Portman – Jackie

 

Best Actor in a Motion Picture, Drama

  • Casey Affleck – Manchester by the Sea
  • Joel Edgerton – Loving
  • Andrew Garfield – Hacksaw Ridge
  • Viggo Mortensen – Captain Fantastic
  • Denzel Washington – Fences

 

Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture

  • Viola Davis – Fences
  • Naomie Harris – Moonlight
  • Nicole Kidman – Lion
  • Octavia Spencer – Hidden Figures
  • Michelle Williams – Manchester by the Sea

 

Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture

  • Mahershala Ali – Moonlight
  • Jeff Bridges – Hell or High Water
  • Simon Helberg – Florence Foster Jenkins
  • Dev Patel – Lion
  • Aaron Taylor-Johnson – Nocturnal Animals

 

Best Director – Motion Picture

  • Damien Chazelle – La La Land
  • Tom Ford – Nocturnal Animals
  • Mel Gibson – Hacksaw Ridge
  • Barry Jenkins – Moonlight
  • Kenneth Lonergan – Manchester by the Sea

 

Best Screenplay – Motion Picture

  • La La Land
  • Nocturnal Animals
  • Moonlight
  • Manchester By The Sea
  • Hell or High Water

 

Best Animated Feature Film

  • Kubo and the Two Strings
  • Moana
  • My Life as a Zucchini
  • Sing
  • Trolls
  • Zootopia

 

Best Motion Picture, Foreign Language

  • Divines
  • Elle
  • Neruda
  • The Salesman
  • Toni Erdmann

 

Best Original Score – Motion Picture

  • Moonlight
  • La La Land
  • Arrival
  • Lion
  • Hidden Figures

 

Best Original Song – Motion Picture

  • Cant Stop The Feeling – Trolls
  • City Of Stars – La La Land
  • Faith – Sing
  • Gold – Gold
  • How Far I’ll Go – Moana

Best TV Series, Comedy

  • Black-ish
  • Atlanta
  • Transparent
  • Mozart in the Jungle
  • Veep

 

Best Actress in a TV Series, Comedy

  • Rachel Bloom – Crazy Ex Girlfriend
  • Sarah Jessica Parker – Divorce
  • Julia Louis-Dreyfus – Veep
  • Gina Rodriguez – Jane the Virgin
  • Issa Rae – Insecure
  • Tracee Ellis Ross – Black-ish

 

Best Actor in a TV Series, Comedy

  • Anthony Anderson – Black-ish
  • Gael Garcia Bernal – Mozart in the Jungle
  • Donald Glover – Atlanta
  • Nick Nolte – Graves
  • Jeffrey Tambor – Transparent

 

Best TV Series, Drama

  • The Crown
  • Game of Thrones
  • Stranger Things
  • This Is Us
  • Westworld

 

Best Actor in a TV Series, Drama

  • Matthew Rhys – The Americans
  • Rami Malek – Mr. Robot
  • Billy Bob Thornton – Goliath
  • Bob Odenkirk – Better Call Saul
  • Liev Schreiber – Ray Donovan

 

Best Actress in a TV Series, Drama

  • Caitriona Balfe – Outlander
  • Claire Foy – The Crown
  • Keri Russell – The Americans
  • Winona Ryder – Stranger Things
  • Evan Rachel Wood – Westworld

 

Best TV Movie or Limited-Series

  • American Crime
  • The Dresser
  • The Night Manager
  • The Night Of
  • The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story

 

Best Actor in a Limited-Series or TV Movie

  • Riz Ahmed
  • Bryan Cranston
  • Tom Hiddleston
  • John Turturro
  • Courtney B. Vance

 

Best Actress in a Limited-Series or TV Movie

  • Felicity Huffman
  • Riley Keough
  • Sarah Paulson
  • Charlotte Rampling
  • Kerry Washington

 

Best Supporting Actor in a Series, Limited-Series or TV Movie

  • Sterling K. Brown – The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story
  • Hugh Laurie – The Night Manager
  • John Lithgow – The Crown
  • John Travolta – The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story
  • Christian Slater – Mr. Robot

 

Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Limited-Series or TV Movie

  • Olivia Colman
  • Lena Heady
  • Chrissy Metz
  • Mandy Moore
  • Thandie Newton

The 74th Annual Golden Globes will air on NBC January 8th, hosted by Jimmy Fallon.

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