Since the overhaul of Marvel films that have been released since Endgame, it’s been difficult to get excited for any of the upcoming sequel or spinoffs. However, the 36th installment to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Thunderbolts* offers something more original and more cathartic than the traditional superhero formula.
This film follows the misfit anti-heroes we have previously been introduced, including Yelena, Ava Starr, and if you watched the Disney Plus series, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, you’ll remember John Walker. Read the full review here.
No surprise that the most recent Marvel tale is crushing it at the box office. “Captain America: Brave New World” is a typical superhero film that still makes for a thrilling good time.
The film follows the events after the Disney+ series, which officially dubbed Sam Wilson as the new Captain America. A few years later he is more established in his new position, working for the United States government, with reservations about the new president, Thaddeus Ross, played by Harrison Ford. But when an attempt on Thaddeus’ life causes chaos. Sam must grab his shield and soar into action to uncover the motive behind a deadly global plan. Filmmaker Julius Onah’s daring whirl at this genre pays off for the most part as he succeeds in capturing the heart of a beloved character we want to know more about, while providing enough high-flying entertainment to keep audiences satisfied and engaged.
While the story is formulaic and I think Marvel needs to let us slowly digest their content, I can appreciate the effort in character development. Anthony Mackie thrives in the title he’s deservingly earned. Mackie provides depth and authenticity that humanizes his character. We’ve known the previous Falcon since 2014 when he was introduced in “The Winter Soldier”, and to see how far Mackie and his character have come is kind of heartwarming, especially for Marvel fans. There are flaws to this film, but they do not lie with Mackie. However, the villains lack substance, and the plot is a bit overcrowded, but this set up of a new and darker Marvel Universe with a more relatable lead, does have potential for the future.
“Captain America: Brave New World” is a box-office smash you want to see in theaters. With its gripping action-packed sequences and now, iconic red Hulk, the film is a riveting sci-fi theatrical experience.
At first glance, “The Black Phone” could come off as a “ripped from the headlines” Lifetime movie. In actuality, the film is a familiar story about a child kidnapper/serial killer that unfolds in a completely unnerving and original way! It also features an incredible and disturbingly eerie performance by Ethan Hawke.
9. I Want You Back
When I watched this film back in February, I knew it would be in my top 10. Not just because I love the genre, but because this one felt reminiscent of some of my favorite 90’s romcoms. The film follows Emma (Jenny Slate) and Peter (Charlie Day) after they have both been dumped by their significant others. They bond over their losses and decide to work together to get their exes back. “I Want You Back” has a refreshing and hilarious screenplay that shines even brighter through Slate and Day’s chemistry.
8. Hustle
Less is more when it comes to the brilliance that is “Hustle”. Adam Sandler plays a basketball scout whose goal is to become a coach. In the midst of that journey, he stumbles upon a talented baller in Spain. They connect as two underdogs trying to prove themselves worthy of coming out on top. This is just one of those movies that excels through incredible performances and it’s a feel-good story. It’s easily my favorite performance by Sandler to date. “Hustle” is the hidden gem of 2022 that I hope everyone was able to find.
7. The Woman King
Based on true events, “The Woman King” is the remarkable story of the Agojie, the all-female unit of warriors who protected the African Kingdom of Dahomey in the 1800s. The women are fierce warriors with unbelievable fighting skills. From its opening scene, the film hooks you in, and keeps you enthralled with exciting action sequences and a thrilling journey. It’s an inspiring and powerful movie.
6. Bros
Finally, a good romcom was shown in theaters this year! It’s crazy to think that “Bros” is the first romantic comedy about two men falling in love to be produced by a mainstream studio. It’s long overdue. But, if we had to wait this long, I’m glad we put it in the hands of Billy Eichner (Co-Writer) and Nick Stoller (Director/Co-Writer). In addition to the film’s historic romantic storyline, the movie also features and entirely LGBTQ+ cast. And it’s entertaining to watch some of those characters poke fun at their own current political identities. “Bros” goes beyond the surface level romcom with its conversation about the importance of LGBTQ+ historical figures.
5. Vengeance
B.J. Novak’s directorial debut is a dark comedy thriller about a podcaster who travels from New York to West Texas to investigate the death of a girl he was hooking up with. I may be bias, being from Texas, but anyone can relate to this story. It’s a hilarious satire about politics, media and technology. Novak is a tour de force, providing a sharp and witty script with a valuable message about how we “connect” with people. “Vengeance” is an original “whodunit” with a shocking and unforgettable ending.
4. Fresh
Mimi Cave’s debut feature goes from rom-com to a dark, provocative horror. Audiences may think they’ve seen this story before, but it hasn’t been told quite like this. For starters, the film features a Grade-A cast. Sebastian Stan’s character is unlike anything he’s played before. And Daisy Edgar-Jones gives an unforgettable performance, as she brings a whole new level to the “damsel turns badass” story arc. The film’s images range from picturesque to beautifully grotesque. “Fresh” delivers the whole package. It’s a deliciously, twisted horror/comedy that leaves you craving more.
3. The Menu
The best original screenplay award should go to “The Menu”. Talk about a brilliant script! This was one that audiences didn’t really know what they were walking into, but should have left very satisfied. In the film, a couple (Anya Taylor-Joy and Nicholas Hoult) travels to a coastal island to eat at an exclusive restaurant where the chef (Ralph Fiennes) has prepared a lavish menu, with some shocking surprises. As the story unfolds, we find this is an exploration of the toxic relationship between art, artist and consumer. Are we still making the art that we were passionate about for ourselves or have we become sell outs? “The Menu” is a clever and delectable story.
2. The Batman
“The Batman” is one of the best Batman movies since “The Dark Knight”. I was hesitant when Robert Pattinson was cast, but he nails it with a brooding Bruce Wayne in his 20’s. The entire cast is fantastic, especially, the quick-witted Zoe Kravitz as probably the most realistic Cat woman, and a stunning, unrecognizable Colin Farrell as Penguin, and of course, a chilling Paul Dano as The Riddler. In this story, citizens know Batman’s name, but don’t quite know his full potential. However, when The Riddler, sadistically begins to murder key political figures and dirty cops in Gotham, Batman is pulled into the investigation to uncover the city’s hidden corruption and his family’s involvement. The film’s dark and gritty atmosphere paired with Matt Reeves’ alluring shots heightens the thrills and suspense during this enthralling murder mystery.
1. Top Gun: Maverick
My number one had to go to my favorite cinematic experience this year. This film had no business being as good as it was. But I am so happy to say it pulled off a sequel rarity in being better than the original. In “Top Gun: Maverick”, Pete Mitchell aka Maverick (Tom Cruise), has been serving as one the Navy’s top aviators for more than 30 years. He is ordered to return to “Top Gun” and instruct the new class of fighter pilots. Only problem, that class includes his late best friend, Goose’s son, Bradley (Miles Teller), who has unresolved issues with Maverick. What director Joseph Kosinski did here is no easy feat. He managed to take the good of the original film and elevate the story and special effects to new heights. The script is sharp, with a perfect combination of nostalgia and modern day. The acting is top notch, as these characters are portrayed with more emotion and vulnerability, and the flight sequences are heart pounding thrills.
The Rest of the Best:
11. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery
12. Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio
13. The Good Nurse
14. Women Talking
15. Bodies, Bodies, Bodies
16. Bullet Train
17. Everything Everywhere All at Once
18. The Whale
19. The Fabelmans
20. Senior Year
Top 5 Worst Films of 2022
5. Jurassic World: Dominon – You bring everyone back for a messy story about giant locusts?
4. Firestarter (2022) – Not even Zac Efron could make this reboot worth it.
3. They/Them – Such a great idea with poor delivery and some of the worst acting.
2. Pinocchio (2022) – A lazy remake with poor graphics and the most annoying Pinocchio.
1. Halloween Ends – I didn’t think it could get any worse than the last film, but then this monstrosity was made. Barely any Michael Myers and too much unwanted romance.
Mimi Caves directorial debut serves a familiar dish, but with a “fresh”, new taste.
I hate to spoil anything about Fox Searchlight Pictures’ “Fresh”, so I’m going to keep it brief.
The film follows, Noa (Daisy Edgar-Jones), a young woman whose tirelessly looking for love through dating apps. The opening scene of the movie is an awkward, horrible first date. Noa is left feeling hopeless, and thinking that she’ll ever find a good guy. Her best friend, Mollie (Jojo T. Gibbs) is always by her side to console her and tell her she doesn’t need a man, but Noa still hopes for that special someone.
On a random evening at the grocery store, a handsome, charming man named Steve (Sebastian Stan) hits on Noa by the produce section. Sparks fly and they begin to date. They seem to have a true romantic connection. After a few dates, Steve suggests taking Noa away for the weekend. Unfortunately, this dream vacation quickly turns into an unthinkable nightmare.
Cave’s debut feature goes from rom-com to a dark, provocative horror. Audiences may think they’ve seen this story before, but it hasn’t been told quite like this. For starters, the film features a Grade-A cast. Stan’s character is unlike anything he’s played before. Between this film and “Pam and Tommy”, he’s proving his incredible versatility as an actor. And Edgar-Jones gives an unforgettable performance, as she brings a whole new level to the “damsel turns badass” story arc.
Screenwriter, Lauryn Kahn carves out a sharp, witty, and thrilling script. Caves brilliantly brings Kahn’s words to life with her directing. The film’s images range from picturesque to beautifully grotesque. “Fresh” delivers the whole package. It’s a deliciously, twisted horror/comedy that leaves you craving more.
“Fresh” is available to stream on Hulu on March 4, 2022.
It’s January; and in the movie world that means it’s “dump month”. After all the award contenders have released their films, a wave of big budget flops tend to make their debut. Don’t get me wrong, there’s the occasional good movie that makes it through. Unfortunately, Universal Pictures’ new action flick, “The 355”, is not one of them.
Jessica Chastain stars as “Mace”, a lonely CIA operative who has no loved ones in her life except for her partner, Nick (Sebastian Stan). They have been strictly platonic until one assignment, that has them playing husband and wife, abruptly gets them in bed together. Well, that assignment goes awry, and she loses an advanced technological device that must be kept out of enemy hands.
One thing leads to another and eventually, Mace teams up with her old friend Khadija (Lupita Nyong’o), an MI6 technological threats expert who used to be a field agent. Marie (Diana Kruger), a German operative who’s a tough, skilled fighter. And Graciela (Penelope Cruz), a Colombian police therapist, who accidently gets involved in this new mission.
Director and co-writer Simon Kinberg does a solid job shooting the film. There’s no shortage of action sequences and the movie looks great, but the screenplay (Co-written by Theresa Rebeck and Bek Smith) offers no excitement and there’s not enough depth to keep us invested in these characters. In fact, the one you care about the most is Graciela, who desperately just wants to home to her family. Cruz’s performance as an innocent and concerned mother makes hers the only relationship you hope gets a happy ending.
It’s easy to root for the team of women, who commit to their lackluster script, but they all deserved better. There are a lot of forced emotions between characters you don’t get to really know. Though Chastain, Nyong’o, Kruger, and Cruz do a fine job, the same cannot be said Sebastian Stan. He barely makes an effort with his character, Nick. There’s a lack of chemistry between him and Chastain, greatly due to his lethargic delivery.
There’s not much else to really say about the film and I don’t want to sit here and rip it apart. From the trailer, “The 355” looks like it will be a fun espionage thriller featuring an awesome, all-star cast. I’m sadden by the fact that it wasn’t. The film had all the right pieces to an underwhelming puzzle.
The powerhouse women in the movie are what make “The 355” a bearable watch, however, the story is forgettable and a missed opportunity with a talented cast.
