I think I’m with the majority when I say that Fantastic Beasts was a great return to the Wizarding World and delivered everything a Potter fan could expect from a new adventure. Personally one of my favorite aspects of Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them was the darker more mature storyline with Colin Farrell’s Graves. This character added something special to the film, and Colin Farrell portrayed him with the perfect amount of skill, so much so that I was almost tricked into believing he was one of the good guys. As the story of Fantastic Beasts developed it became clear that Graves had ulterior motives, and was even perhaps working with this franchise’s villain, Grindelwald. After the epic final showdown in New York, the film revealed that Graves was in fact Grindelwald the entire time, leading us to question where the real Graves is in this universe.
Will Graves Return?
If you were hoping to discover what happened to the real Graves then you might be disappointed. It doesn’t look like Colin Farrell will be bringing his ferocity back to the Wizarding World in a sequel. While speaking to Snitch Seeker, producer David Heyman revealed that Colin Farrell won’t reprising his role in the Fantastic Beasts sequel. When asked directly if Farrell will be returning in Fantastic Beasts 2, Heyman said:
“There’s no plans to bring Colin back for the sequel.”
Although I’m sad to see that Percival Graves isn’t appearing in the sequel, the reveal that Graves is in fact, Johnny Depp’s Grindelwald was by far the biggest surprise in the movie. Of course, we knew that Depp would have a cameo in this first film, but I don’t think anyone expected Grindelwald to be hiding as another character, especially one that had so much potential for development.
Colin Farrell’s villainous days in the Wizarding World are over, but Johnny Depp is just getting started. Grindelwald is one of the worst recorded dark wizards, second only to Voldemort so we should all look forward to him having a bigger role in the Fantastic Beasts sequel.
Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them is playing around the world and the sequel will land in theaters on November 16, 2018.
The Walking Dead continues picking up the pieces from its seventh season finale, focusing this week on The Hilltop. As Maggie struggles to cope with the loss of Glenn, The Hilltop has an internal struggle with how to handle their relationship with The Saviors. There’s some okay characterization of Carl, but it’s not a lot of new information. The episode’s focus seems“Go-Getters” isn’t evenly balanced with information, but it gives enough to keep the show rolling and clarify what’s important.
The set-up of “Go-Getters” is probably the weakest point of the episode. Maggie and Sasha head back to The Hilltop to make sure Maggie’s baby is okay. For those that have forgotten, The Hilltop is the other survivor colony under the control of The Saviors. While it seemed like an interesting place last season, the introduction of Negan and The Kingdom has made it unimportant. Therefor, The Saviors setting flaming walkers into the town is a low-stakes situation. It mean Maggie and Sasha have more to do while there, but it still mean they’re up to very little. Outside of confirming Maggie’s baby is okay, and giving Gregory some well-deserved sass, what’s the point of the episode?
It doesn’t help that The Hilltop only has two residents of note, Gregory and Jesus. The fact they’ve been absent for a while highlights how ineffectual they are to the plot. They work as a means to reinvigorate Maggie and Sasha, but not as individuals. Jesus is another standard good guy, albeit with a goofier name and aversion to leadership roles. Gregory’s apparent alcoholism makes him more engaging, but he’s still just another antagonistic authority figure. Neither of these characters can carry an episode with their problems, and their insignificance brings the episode down. The Walking Dead couldn’t even justify Negan caring about The Hilltop, sending Steven Ogg in his place. It’s an environment that doesn’t make for enough engaging plot, keeping the episode tethered down.
Overall, the emotional arcs of the episode don’t provide any new revelations or evolution. Maggie gets a bit of closure, keeping her father’s watch, but what else does she do? Her squabble with Gregory is a rehash of last season, and taking a bigger role at Hilltop doesn’t change their immediate circumstances. Sasha serves primarily as muscle for Maggie, getting no closure for the loved one she lost. Carl has a chat with Enid about why he wants to kill Negan, but it’s not enough to outweigh the slower elements of the episode.
The biggest problem of this episode is that it’s more set-up. We’ve seen set up since the beginning of the season, as The Walking Dead set up its season. It’s all work done without intrigue attached. The narrative doesn’t make the work compelling, and there’s not enough pieces moving. The twist of Jesus & Carl going Negan-hunting could have been compelling, but only comes at the end. Maybe The Walking Dead can pick up the pieces soon, once they’re all out on the board. But “Go-Getters” suffers from Exposition Syndrome, providing more info than action.
Rumors of the X-Men joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe have been swirling as of late, but in a chat with Variety, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige shut down the idea.
“It’s an impossibility at this juncture. We certainly have enough films to keep us busy for a number of lifetimes.”
Well, it sure looks like we won’t be seeing Wolverine team up with the Avengers any time soon.
It’s disapointing, but in this day and age I don’t think the MCU needs to include any X-Men characters. The cinematic universe is thriving as it is, and there is really no reason to add more characters, considering Marvel has an announced slate of films keeping us busy until 2019.
What are your thoughts on this rather unfortunate piece of news? Let me know in the comments.
Tom Ford’s Nocturnal Animals ensnares the audience’s attention within the first second of it’s opening title sequence. The film opens with shots of morbidly obese nude women holding lit sparklers and scantily festooned with cheerleading pom-poms. Just when you thought that the sequence couldn’t get stranger, Ford decides these women ( some of which aren’t just morbidly obese but deformed as well) should be gyrating in slow motion as well. If audiences can hang on through an incredibly bizarre opening sequence, they will be rewarded with an exceptionally crafted film anchored by tremendous performances from Amy Adams, Jake Gyllenhall, and Micheal Shannon.
We quickly realize that the opening sequence is part of a conceptual art piece hosted by Susan Morrow (Amy Adams), who appears to be a significant player in the Los Angeles art scene. Her husband, Hutton Morrow (Armie Hammer) is a miserable financier who seems to be bored with their life in LA and interested in heading back to New York City to “score” his next big deal (which we come to realize means cheat on Susan). After her latest art show, she heads home and finds a package from her first husband, Edward Sheffield (Jake Gyllenhall). Upon opening it up, she sees that her ex-husband has finished his first novel “Nocturnal Animals” and she’s immediately shaken when she realizes it’s dedicated to her. Susan drops everything and begins reading his novel.
It’s at this point where Ford truly shines as a director. He effortlessly manages to weave in the original narrative with a parallel story stemming from Sheffield’s novel. Tony Hastings (Jake Gyllenhall) is your typical family man. He’s taking his wife (Isla Fisher) and teenager daughter (Ellie Bamber) on a road trip through West Texas. In the middle of the night, the Hastings have a run in with a bunch of hillbillies lead by a guy named Ray (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). Their run in leads to a small accident which causes both of them to pull off the road. Predictably, things go from bad to worse in a sequence of events the is sure to stick with audiences long after the film ends. What’s confusing at this point in the movie is why Edward’s novel is dedicated to Susan? Did something horrifying lead to their divorce?
We start to get clarity as we begin to learn about Susan and Edward’s marriage in the film’s third narrative. What we learn is they were both young and very idealistic. Edward is a broke author who’s trying to find inspiration for his first novel, and Susan is struggling with whether to pursue art as a calling or business. She wants Edward to be more “practical” and go back to school. Edward thinks that she’s becoming more and more like her mother. A significant life changing event occurs and their relationship is beyond repair.
One of the highlights of this film was the work Tom Ford. Ford does tremendous work, creating different realities for all three of these narratives to take place. For example, Susan’s “art” narrative is seemingly fake and very artificial looking, and tony’s “road trip” narrative is bleak, bloody, and brutal. The writing is brutal, blunt, and seemingly coming from that dark place that people go when their world is shattered.
The cinematography in the film was extremely effective. Seamus McGarvey seemingly had a deep understanding that the pain in this film didn’t just stem from the brutal acts they committed but the emotional scars that were inflicted on each other. For example, when Susan realizes Hutton has been going to New York to cheat on her with what she assumes is a much younger woman, McGarvey keeps the shot on Susan, and you see what little self-worth she had shatter as she blankly stares off into the dark reaches of her kitchen.
While Adams and Gyllenhall are equally tremendous in the film, Micheal Shannon is who stood out most to me. Shannon plays Bobby Andes, a character in Sheffield’s novel. Andes is the Texas Ranger who is brought in to help Mr. Hastings get the bottom of what happened on that dark dirt road in the middle of the night in West Texas. Andes has a strong sense of what’s right and will do whatever it takes to see justice served (even if it means taking the law into his hands). Shannon delivers a commanding performance that will most certainly draw the attention of award voters.
Moana represents yet another cinematic and musical triumph for Disney animation. A visual wonder full of humor, heart and imagination, it breathes new life into the seemingly indefatigable Disney formula yet again.
Kids should love the film’s running gags and larger-than-life characters. Parents will most likely leave the film humming or even singing parts of the film’s musical numbers.
There’s something truly delightful for everyone here, just as there usually is in the best Disney fare.
What’s it about?
The titular character in Moana (pronounced “Mo-AH-nah”) is a 16-year-old girl living with her family and people on an island in the Pacific region we today know as Oceania. The daughter of her tribe’s chief (Temuera Morrison), Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) has been prepared all her life to someday lead her tribe.
But she has another calling, one only her grandmother, Gramma Tala (Rachel House, Whale Rider) understands and nurtures. Moana longs for the ocean, to navigate its vastness and explore its unknowns.
It’s a desire her chieftain father strictly curtails. His one steadfast rule, the one he’ll broach no discussion on, is “No one leaves the island.”
But then a darkness the tribe has no answer for begins to encroach upon their idyllic existence. Moana knows instinctively knows the answer lies in the ocean, with a tale Gramma Tala told her as a child.
She must find the demigod Maui (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson), who long ago stole an ancient treasure and unleashed evil upon the world. Her plan is simple: have Maui return what he stole. Thus her people are saved and the world set right.
Ah, but if it were that simple, the film would be a lot shorter than its 113 minutes, wouldn’t it?
56 and still going strong
Moana represents Walt Disney Animation’s 56th animated feature, not including the Pixar films. In many ways, it utilizes story and character elements that Disney has all but trademarked.
A young, high-spirited hero who doesn’t quite fit in his/her surroundings. An adventure that leads them away from home, to danger, excitement, and self-discovery. A new life discovered, a new sense of self and purpose forged from what was inside all along.
Yes, this type of story goes far beyond Disney movies. It’s one that can be found in the stories of the earliest of human civilizations’ myths and legends. It’s a part of our cultural DNA.
But it’s arguable that no one presents that kind of story in animated feature form better than Disney. Its also arguable that no Disney directing team has done it better in recent decades than Ron Clements and John Musker.
From The Little Mermaid to Aladdin to Hercules to The Princess and the Frog and now Moana, Clements and Husker seem to understand how to balance compelling storytelling with music, character, and humor. Here they have help from the directors of Big Hero 6 — Don Hall and Chris Williams are listed as co-directors — but Moana has the unmistakable grace and charm of a Clements and Husker Disney film.
If you count their previous Disney films among your favorites, you’re sure to fall in love with Moana.
Unforgettable original songs, score
It shouldn’t surprise anyone that the lyricist behind most of Moana’s original songs is Lin-Manuel Miranda (“Hamilton”). Working with world music star Opetaia Foa’i, Miranda delivers songs full of heart and, in the case of Maui’s solo number, “You’re Welcome,” humor.
Complementing Miranda and Foa’i’s catchy and compelling lyrics is the musical score provided by Mark Mancina (Tarzan, The Lion King). Mancina’s musical themes simply soar, particularly during the film’s musical numbers and action sequences.
Through it all is a palpable reverence and celebration of the sounds and rhythms of Oceania and Pacific music. Collectively, the musical work in Moana belongs in the conversation for the best in film in 2016 – watch for many nominations once awards season gets under way.
Cravalho, Johnson a great team
Moana also benefits from some truly inspired casting. Leading the way is 15-year-old Hawaiian Auli’i Cravalho.
A newcomer to movies, Cravalho impresses with both her singing ability and her acting. She imbues Moana with compelling strength of spirit, while still keeping her relatable. She’s a hero, but she’s still a teenage girl, at times in the film way out of her depth.
Sharing top billing with Cravalho is everyone’s favorite wrestler-turned-box-office-muscleman, Dwayne Johnson. Just about all of Johnson’s non-physical talents are on display bringing Maui to life, from his comic timing and line delivery to his singing ability.
Put it another way. There’s virtually no chance you won’t like the smell of what the Rock is cooking here — it smells GOOD.
Rachel House and Flight of the Conchords‘s Jemaine Clement also deliver standout performances in Moana. All in all, it’s a remarkable ensemble, one as memorable as any assembled for a Disney animated feature.
Worth seeing?
Moana is the perfect feast for the eyes to take in over Thanksgiving weekend after the feast for your belly. Whether it’s the music or the laughs or the dazzling animation, there’s just so much to enjoy here as a thrilling escape into cinema.
Beyond even those elements which Disney often does so well, Moana is rich with the vibrant beauty and storytelling traditions of Oceania. It’s well researched and lovingly crafted, and immerses you in a world and culture that you’ll want more of once the credits roll.
See it, and see it in 3D. Seeing all the beauty and majesty of the ocean brought to life as only Disney and CGI can is worth the premium price.
Moana
Featuring the voices of Auli’i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Temuera Morrison, Rachel House, Nicole Scherzinger, Jemaine Clement, Alan Tudyk. Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker.
Running Time: 113 minutes
Rated PG for peril, some scary images and brief thematic elements.
The already incredible cast of Black Panther just got a little bit better!
Academy Award-nominated actress Angella Basset, who currently plays a role in the hit show America Horror Story, is set to play T’Challa’s mother in Black Panther.
In all likelihood the character will provide guidance for the hero, especially in the months after his dad’s death at the hands of Zemo in Captain America: Civil War.
Black Panther stars Chadwick Boseman as the title character, Michael B. Jordan as Erik Killmonger, Lupita Nyong’o as Nakia, Danai Guriria as Okoye, and Forest Whitaker in an unknown role.
Following the announcement of ABC picking up Marvel’s The Inhumans for two IMAX episodes then a full season in Fall 2017, THR talked with Disney-ABC Television Group President Ben Sherwood about the first two episodes.
“As part of the agreement, the first two episodes will be shot entirely with Imax cameras, with subsequent action scenes — some of which will be set on the moon — also filmed using the technology.”
This is an important quote. It shows that the first two episodes are going to take full use of the IMAX technology. Many fans thought the choice to screen the episodes in theaters was purely for show, but it seems as though it is for good reason.
You can see the first two Inhumans episodes in IMAX theaters starting Labor Day of 2017.
While ‘Moana’ As A Whole Is Amazing, The Real Star Of The Piece Is The Soundtrack
I feel bad for anyone going up against ‘Moana‘ for Best Original Song at the Academy Awards because this soundtrack is rockin! Yes, the entire film is breathtaking but Lin-Manuel Miranda’s music makes this a knockout.
I haven’t heard songs in a Disney film be this important since 97’s ‘Hercules‘.
Before getting too deep into just the music behind ‘Moana‘, I have to talk about the movie itself. The latest piece from Disney Animation Studios tells the story of a teenage girl who journeys out on a dangerous mission to save her island and her people. Along her way, she meets a once-mighty but cocky demigod who is an important part of her destiny.
This wonderful story is adventurous and non-stop. Rarely do you get a second to catch your breath as you are on a whirlwind around the sea. Each musical number transitions you to the different set pieces or to another intricate part of the story. Everything flowed together and that’s the work of veteran Disney directors John Musker and Ron Clements.
The way Musker & Clements bring every element from animation to music to performances proves why they’ve worked with Disney since 1986. The duo shined with ‘The Little Mermaid‘ and ‘Aladdin‘; ‘Moana‘ is about to reach that level quickly. The two previous mentioned films not only had great soundtracks and fun visuals but they are both led by great leads. The strong-willed tribe chief’s daughter is another example of how amazing their central characters can be. Moana Waialiki (Auli’i Cravalho) displays so many likable qualities and has to be one of the best female characters Disney has put to screen.
For generations this peaceful island has been home to our family, but beyond our reef a great danger is coming. Legend tells of a hero who will journey to find the Maui, and together the demigod Maui, and together they will save us all.
-Gramma Tala (Rachel House)
It isn’t only about Moana though. Demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson) is a hilarious addition who brings some brawn to Moana’s adventure. Dwayne Johnson doesn’t let anyone down with a memorable performance. Without a doubt, this is his funniest role to date. But every character, no matter their part, feels fully realized. Village crazy Gramma Tala is a scene-stealer. Also, actor Alan Tudyk does great voice work again with his performance as wacky chicken sidekick Hei Hei. Even the ocean water that surrounds the characters feels as if’s a player in this story.
Going back to my original point, the work Lin-Manuel Miranda & Opetaia Foa’i did for the soundtrack is what makes this an instant classic. All the songs from start to finish are memorable, funny, and so bold. My personal favorite is Shiny performed by the villainous crab named Tamatoa (Jemaine Clement). You can hear many influences in the number and reminds me of the brilliant Oogie Boogie song in ‘Nightmare Before Christmas‘. Also, shoutout to Mark Mancina for a wonderful score. The music moments between the bold songs are beautiful.
Final Thoughts:
Walt Disney Animation Studios knocked it out of the park this year. Following ‘Zootopia‘ was going to be hard but ‘Moana‘ sailed right by it.
Auli’i Cravalho as the titular character makes her mark as the newest in a long line of iconic Disney heroines. Moana could be a great role model for this generation’s young girls. She’s backed by a strong cast all driven by an amazing narrative. All that weaved together with show-stopping musicial numbers co-created by the man who did ‘Hamilton‘. We are looking at instant award season gold here.
What’s not to love about this movie!?
Synopsis: On a mystic island in Polynesia, the 16-year-old strong-willed daughter of the chief of the tribe, Moana from Motunui Island, is chosen by the ocean itself to reunite the Heart of Te Fiti. She sets sail in search of Maui, a legendary demigod and hopes to save her people.
Genre: Disney Musical Adventure Country: USA Director: Ron Clements, John Musker Starring: Auli’i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Rachel House, Alan Tudyk
Back in August, The Wrap‘s film reporter Umberto Gonzalez dropped a scoop claiming Zendaya will be playing Mary Jane Watson in Spider-Man: Homecoming. Many have denied the report, and now Zendaya herself even claims that she isn’t playing the character.
In an interview with ETOnline, the actress had this to say about the rumor:
“I’m not Mary Jane unfortunately, but I am in the movie which is exciting.”
Zendaya then commented on Spider-Man being her first film:
“It’s incredible, you know? It’s such a huge project to be part of. I mean, who could pick a better thing to be your first movie? Like, I’m speechless. If I could pick a movie, it would be Spider-Man, so I got it”
Do you think she is playing Mary Jane? If not, what character could the actress be playing?
Spider-Man: Homecoming hits theaters on July 7, 2017.
A new batch of images from Rogue One: A Star Wars Story have been released via Entertainment Weekly, two of which include new looks at Darth Vader. Check them all out below.
“Following the foundation of the Galactic Empire, a wayward band of Rebel fighters come together to carry out a desperate mission: to steal the plans for the Death Star before it can be used to enforce the Emperor’s rule.”
