He said he’d be back and dammit if he didn’t mean it. Because once again Mr. Schwarzenegger is back to stop Skynet! With the last few movies in the series being total turdfests can the Governator capture the magic of the past while saving the future ?
With the Salvation technically just looping back to the start of the first Terminator when Kyle Reese is sent back to 1984 to protect Sarah Connor, so begins Genisys. Kyle Reese is sent back to 1984 and meets Sarah and an old version of the T-100 (who Sarah affectionately calls Pops). They travel in to the future to stop Skynet from ever going online, but run in to Jon Connor. Now, the question is what does his prescence mean for them and their mission ?
Honestly, this film is a pretty straightforward action movie with a little bit of sci-fi thrown in. The story is a damn mess of a work of science fiction. With time traveling it has become all sorts of confusing. Most of the sci-fi elements are from previous entries so the action is emphasized far more. It even has more humor than the series has been known for in previous entries. It feels more like a typical Arnold action set piece film than anything else most of the time. Now, don’t get me wrong it’s a pretty good action film but don’t come looking for a science fiction masterwork is all I’m saying. Arnold of course handles his duties as the Terminator who inexplicably has patriarchal feelings for Sarah Connor very well. He is getting too old for this sh!t (shout out Danny GLover) but there seems to be some pneumatic pressure still left in the old exoskeleton. The fight scenes are geared to his fading physical capabilities but they’re pretty damn brutal still. Jai Courtney is kind of just there as Kyle Reese and doesn’t get in the way or stand out to me. Jason Clarke as John Connor is rightly charismatic and menacing in a performance that’s well done. Emilia Clarke I didn’t even recognize without her blonde wig on. She’s capable in her role as a slightly less badass Sarah Connor than the version from T2. She’s a very slight and tiny woman who looks a little under aged to be honest. That’s not her fault but that does the role she plays no favors. The CGI and battle scenes are top notch and are a joy to see. You’ll ooohhh and aaahhh as the flashy lights flicker across the screen.
This is the best Terminator film since the second. The CGI is on point and the explosion and carnage machine at the movie studio seemed to be working over time as crap gets blown up beautifully. Some of the characters either don’t look the part or don’t make an impression but, old (really old) reliable Arnie anchors it all well. You will have fun with this movie.
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‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Will Leave You Breathless
“Mufasa: The Lion King” is a visually stunning addition to the beloved Lion King franchise, offering a fresh and emotionally resonant take on the origins of one of Disney’s most iconic characters. The film beautifully explores Mufasa’s journey, balancing heartfelt moments with touches of comedy that lighten the mood and make the story accessible to audiences of all ages. The animation is breathtaking, capturing the vibrant landscapes and lush environments of the Pride Lands, adding depth to Mufasa’s character and his relationships.
The storytelling is compelling, effectively pulling at the heartstrings while providing insights into Mufasa’s character before he becomes the legendary king. However, the setup for Scar’s betrayal feels somewhat underdeveloped, lacking the deeper motivation that could have enriched their complex brotherly relationship. This missed opportunity leaves a slight gap in understanding Scar’s actions, which could have elevated the dramatic stakes.
The musical score is impressive, featuring memorable songs that enhance the emotional impact of pivotal scenes. While there are several standout tracks, one song, in particular, resonates deeply and is sure to linger in viewers’ minds long after the credits roll. Overall, “Mufasa: The Lion King” is an amazing film and a worthy addition to the Lion King lore that manages to deliver both laughter and tears, offering a rich tapestry of storytelling that fans will appreciate.
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Is ‘Kraven the Hunter’ a Total Letdown?
“Kraven the Hunter,” directed by J.C. Chandor, aims to introduce a beloved Spider-Man villain to the big screen, but unfortunately, it falls short of expectations. The film suffers from noticeable issues, notably an overuse of ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement), which detracts from the authenticity of the characters’ interactions and contributes to an uneven audio experience. This technical flaw is compounded by rough storytelling that feels disjointed and lacking in coherence, leaving viewers struggling to connect with the narrative.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson delivers a commendable performance as Kraven, showcasing the character’s gritty nature and complex motivations. His portrayal has potential, and it’s evident that he could elevate the character far beyond what is presented with a stronger script and direction. However, the absence of Spider-Man, a central figure in Kraven’s lore, leaves a void that the film struggles to fill. Without this critical connection, the plot meanders and fails to create the tension or stakes that fans of the superhero genre crave.
Additionally, including Rhino as a villain feels like a missed opportunity; he is presented more as a gag character with limited screen time, undermining any sense of threat or depth. For the average moviegoer, “Kraven the Hunter” might entertain but ultimately feels like a mediocre viewing experience. Comic book fans, however, may find disappointment in this lackluster attempt to create a solo character film. Instead of an exhilarating dive into Kraven’s world, the film presents a watered-down version, leaving audiences wishing for a more cohesive vision that honors its comic book roots.
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A Brief Review and History of A Year Without a Santa Claus
A Year Without a Santa Claus, the 1974 stop-motion holiday classic produced by Rankin/Bass, is a heartwarming and whimsical tale that has cemented its place in holiday traditions. Based on Phyllis McGinley’s 1956 book, the story revolves around a disheartened Santa Claus who, feeling unappreciated, decides to take a year off from his Christmas duties. It’s up to Mrs. Claus and a pair of well-meaning elves, Jingle and Jangle, to reignite the Christmas spirit and show Santa the world’s unwavering belief in him.
The movie is beloved for its unforgettable characters, especially the bickering Miser Brothers, Snow Miser and Heat Miser. Their catchy, vaudeville-style musical numbers, “Snow Miser Song” and “Heat Miser Song”, are so iconic they’ve become cultural touchstones, often parodied and celebrated decades later.
Directed by Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass, the film continues the duo’s tradition of stop-motion magic, blending heartfelt storytelling with quirky humor. The voice cast, featuring Mickey Rooney as Santa and Shirley Booth as Mrs. Claus, delivers standout performances. Booth’s warm narration was her final acting role before retirement, adding a layer of poignancy to the film.
Initially released on December 10, 1974, on ABC, the special didn’t immediately achieve the legendary status of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. However, it gained a dedicated following through annual holiday airings, nostalgic appeal, and its distinct charm.
The film’s themes of hope, unity, and rekindling joy remain timeless, making it a perennial favorite for audiences of all ages. Its blend of humor, catchy songs, and a touching message about believing in magic and goodwill ensures its enduring legacy during the holiday season.
For fans of holiday classics, A Year Without a Santa Claus is a must-watch that never fails to warm hearts and spread cheer.