Puss in Boots: The Last Wish Review

 I'll be honest. The last thing I've seen of Shrek was when the third movie hit cable around 2008 or 09. I thought it was okay. Did not see the fourth one, nor did I see the first Puss in Boots film. The Last Wish was something I was going to see while being somewhat green. Given some of Dreamworks' stuff in recent years, it does an amazing job of being funny and emotional. It doesn't rely on specific Shrek type humor. This plays out like a fairy tale and sticks to it. Definitely will help keep it from feeling dated even with my love for the first two Shreks.

Puss in Boots (Antonio Banderas) is still at the top of his game. That is until he loses a life. A doctor tells him he is on his last of the nine lives cats have. Despite efforts to fight it, he retires to the home of a cat lady. In other parts of the fairy tale land, Goldilocks (Florence Pugh) and the Three Bears are on a quest to find the shooting star that can grant a person their wish. A map is needed from the home of Jack Horner (John Mulaney). With teaming up with Kitty Southpaw (Salma Hayek) and a dog (Harvey Guillen), Puss is on a quest to hopefully get his lives back.

As I said, it sticks to being a fairy tale. It's not filled with parodies, pop culture references. Shrek type humor that may not land the same like it did back in 01. A lot has changed since 2011 and Dreamworks has worked on its game of being fantasy kids films that can be funny and heartwarming. You feel for Puss and the development of his character is given a ton of care. He brings out the strong emotion and the action that make you root for him. I like the twist of Goldilocks working with the Bears. They get some time to shine and provide their share of humor and tugging of heartstrings. Jack makes a great villain and gives reason to despise him along with the comedy of his backstory.

The animations is on par with what The Bad Guys had. Beautiful CGI for its settings and characters. Some interesting 2D type moments for effects and camera shots. It's a hybrid I hope continues with more Dreamworks films. Same with the vivid colors and special effects splashed throughout. I enjoyed the music score and didn't go overboard on songs. Some of the callbacks were cute. The voice work is phenomenal. A couple spots do get too dramatic, but The Last Wish is a strong film. Go check it out in theaters. Fun for both kids and adults. It stands high on its own two feet and on par with Shrek and Shrek 2.

Score: 8.5 out of 10

Violent Night Review

 There aren't many holiday films out in theaters right now. It's very slim pickings compared to an article I saw about a combo of 60 plus films across two networks. Violent Night fills that void a bit and is surprisingly good. We do need more adult Christmas films. It's more humorous than you think and the action is given some thought. How you view the violent nature will vary.

David Harbour plays Santa. In this world, he loved doing his job of delivering gifts, but has become a drunk due to the amount of greed many adults and children have gotten. On his usual duties, he finds himself in Connecticut. A wealthy family is enjoying their festivities led by old matriarch Gertrude Lightstone (Beverly D'Angelo) when a group of mercenaries invade their home for 300 million dollars. The head man (John Leguizamo) will do whatever he can, but Santa is at the same house. With help from little girl Trudy, he preps for a battle he'll never forget.

It definitely is its own movie in some aspects. However, it feels as if it did its own take of Die Hard 1 and 2, along with Home Alone 1 and 2. The action aspect shows Santa kicking some serious ass in some scenes and getting beaten to a pulp in others. There is a human element to it and he makes a healthy John McClane look even healthier. Those scenes are choreographed well and the violence at points is goofy or pretty serious. The comedy is sprinkled all around. Santa's drunken attitude early on. Hearing Gertrude curse like a sailor and her family members trying to paint a good picture of the family.

It does get a bit sentimental with what Trudy wants and what Santa wants. With it being Christmas, they want things to be better from where they came from. Trudy has a bit of a Kevin McCallister vibe to her, which they do reference Home Alone a couple times. Traps do make Kevin seem a little more innocent compared to her. I expected violence, though it wasn't as dark as I thought. But you might. A couple cringe moments, but they may or may not for the viewer. The bad guys are a little over the top. You get a score that shows its Michael Kamen side, a bit of John Williams, and some of its own. The cinematography works well to its advantage and it's amazing how all this was done on a 20 million dollar budget.

The film does go at a decent pace. Like I said, the cringe aspects will vary on the viewer, which is the only major complaint I could see being a problem. But otherwise, Violent was surprisingly good. Get a chance to see it in theaters. We need more of these holiday movies that aren't strictly for kids.

Spirited Review

 Before I get into this review, if Spirited is in theaters, I'd check it out. Otherwise, this is available via Apple TV+. Anyway, this is something that caught my eye a little bit and is something that feels out of left field. Better than I thought it would be and it is well done with its choreography and attempt of a modern day version of A Christmas Carol.

Every year, there are ghosts that will try to change a person for better and redeem themselves. Led by Marley (Patrick Page), they go all out to scare the person straight and improve their life. His plan for the following Christmas is a hotel manager, but ghost of Christmas present (Will Ferrell) sees someone that is way worse. Reluctantly, Marley goes with the idea of redeeming Clint Briggs (Ryan Reynolds), an A-grade piece of trash. What ensues is pure insanity.

The only other film that has a modern day take that I can think of with A Christmas Carol is Scrooged from 1988, and even that is referenced by Clint. This is a musical for the most part and it saves its moments for when to sing and when to be comedic. It is an interesting duo with Reynolds and Ferrell. Reynolds is great as that slimy deceitful manipulative person and it clashes with the other side of the comedy. It's nice to see Ferrell play the straight laced character a bit, which is refreshing though he is more than just that as Christmas present.

It's few other characters who are important play vital parts. Sunita Mani and the voice of Tracy Morgan are hilarious as the other two ghosts Past and Yet to Come and their attempts to scare Clint. Octavia Spencer serves as a love interest for Present and also is a moral ground type of person that doesn't like the antics of Clint. But all these characters get their chances to sing songs surrounding their situations and the musical score is beautiful with well done dance and choreography if it needs to. Of course, the holiday look to it. Nothing more special than going to see the lights and everything in New York.

This is a bit lengthy. However the balance of comedy and musical and the energy keeps it going without a stale moment. I'm not sure how some will view the ending and some of the more darker moments of the film. Some development of a couple characters could have been better. But otherwise, Spirited is a funny film to go see. Check it in theaters if it's playing near you. As said at the beginning of this review, this is also on Apple TV+

Easter Sunday Review

If it weren't for Jay Chandrasekhar directing this, I would have skipped out on Easter Sunday. Even though he didn't write the script for this film, his knack for finding good projects (Arrested Development, Community, Psych) is there. This one falls a little flat early and does recover to where it's above average. Not good, but there is much worse. One of the stranger comedies I have seen in theaters.

Jo Koy (Yes, that's his name, a stage name) plays Joe Valencia, A Filipino actor who is trying to find work beyond being a comedian. In the midst of finding that big break, he is also divorced, trying to be there for his son and attend his mother's home for Easter Sunday. What should be a normal gathering of family does not exist. Feuding sisters, scammers, anything you can think of derails what Joe wants to do and he has to keep his sanity in check while making sure things don't go wrong.

This falls into the realm of very dysfunctional family. Only with a Filipino family. It plays a little bit of factor in the plot with Joe not wanting to be a stereotype when going for his big break. I get it being natural has its perks. Doesn't work all the time in Hollywood though. The material is stuff some can relate to. Not every family is happily together. Bickering members and grudges against each other. It's something you can laugh at and have fun watching. Some of it is outlandish such as the character Eugene owing money to gangsters. Otherwise, the script here is something that you'll get a grasp of.

This doesn't have the most recognized cast, though some familiar faces will leave you wondering how they managed to "insert actor's name" in it. The cinematography was excellent and the lighting was done great. Music was hit or miss. This is not a gut busting type of movie and the first 20 minutes or so will feel a bit slow. Once it gets to where Joe and his son being around his family does it kick up a bit and be funny. Lots of chuckling. If Easter Sunday is right up your alley, go see it. Otherwise, watch at your risk. Your mileage may vary on if it interests you greatly.

Score: 6.5 out of 10 

Top Gun: Maverick Review

Top Gun: Maverick has been a film that was on my radar for well over two years. With the amount of success it has had since it hit theaters, it's not a shock. This is one of the best movies of 2022 and it is amazing. From a technical and production standpoint, it's through the roof. The best part though is not being an 80s macho fest. It's a crafted drama that finds a way to be very fresh and know when to show its callbacks.

Pete "Maverick" Mitchell is still the same cocky guy as he was 30 plus years ago. Still angering top officials and using jet fighters in outrageous ways. The Navy has an important mission that has to be done within a few weeks. With special recommendation, he is teaching a new group of pilots to do the mission in the same Top Gun class. Through the ups and downs, he will make sure everyone comes back alive and also solve his personal demons from long ago when he was that young brash pilot.

By no means is the original film bad. It's a product of its era. This sequel gets the 80s treatment for the first couple minutes complete with some Kenny Loggins and the main theme to go with some tight editing of the jets. The writers made Maverick more of a human and less of a complete dickhead. Tom Cruise is top notch with reprising his character and you feel for what he is trying to do. He still has regrets and can't let go of what happened to Goose. Speaking of which, Miles Teller holds his own playing Goose's son, sign name Rooster and provides good chemistry with Cruise as their characters share moments of awkwardness and letting things.

You got pilots who are just like Maverick. Other pilots who struggle with preparing for the mission. There are a number of callbacks aren't there to simply reference the original film. It has an excellent cameo for one character and is one of the tender moments that shows how high of a bar the sequel leapt over its predecessor. A love interest does exist and that comes from a throwaway line in the first. One Admiral's daughter, Penny Benjamin and she gets a bit of time on screen. Kind of that pushing power to help Maverick and some motivation to get his pilots prepared.

From a cinematography perspective, some of the shots are wild. These actors were probably training so hard to do some of these things that were in script. Cruise has become better known for doing a number of his own stunts. You get that authenticity that is lacking in a number of big name movies. Granted, they're not risking their lives to film those scenes, but that sense of realism is crazy. Even the non-flying scenes are shot beautifully. There's also some of the effects that are brilliant. With sound, this is the type of movie that is made to be seen in a movie theater. That last half hour with the sounds gives it a more exciting experience. The music is mostly a score with hints of the main theme and it sprinkles some songs at points. It stays at being a score driven film

The film could have cut at least 5 minutes or so at points. Could be a little too long, but not too ridiculous. That doesn't deter the fact that Top Gun: Maverick is a movie you need to see. A must watch film for the summer season. An 80s sequel that can stand on its own ground and arguably better than its predecessor.

Score: 8.5 out of 10

The Bad Guys Review

Yeah, this is a kids film. With that in mind, The Bad Guys does try something a bit different compared to most Dreamworks film and most animated films in general. It's a focus on a criminal group of animals and their trials and tribulations of trying to commit the perfect crime and changing how people view them. It's not the most clever movie or the funniest. However, I'd give it credit for not being generic either.

It all starts with the Big Bad Wolf. He's the ring leader of his group. Him, Tarantula, Shark, Snake, and Piranha commit unthinkable deeds, but get caught. A genius professor decides to rehabilitate them and make them become citizens that are welcomed, not feared. Wolf gets his crew to play along and what ensues is many moments to be good and bad at the same time.

The characters all interact fairly well and the performances are above average given the talent used for it. There are some surprises that will catch a few off guard. As far as humor goes, it's not deliberately in your face, but you'll get some chuckling out of it. It's scripted out and doesn't come off as low brow for the most part. I find it hard to explain since it is for kids. Yet there are moments that make it feel as if this was written for adults to an extent. That feeling of being given a second chance or having redemption, though that's not the main focus.

There is a definite style to the CGI. Well done visuals and some attempt at some hand drawn like effects for scenes. It doesn't look like the typical mold of a Dreamworks animated film. You'll see some of it, though. Nothing against the score or the songs, but it seemed about average. Nothing that wows me, but not dreadful. I would try to see The Bad Guys in the theater if its still around. It's a bit better than what I was expecting. Not perfect, but nothing offensive either.

Score: 7 out of 10

Father Stu Review

I'm not an overly religious person. That said, Father Stu seemed like an interesting film. A guy who wants to find his true calling and tries several things before deciding to go into priesthood. There's probably better films of this type of genre, but this isn't too bad.

Mark Wahlberg plays Stuart Long in this true story of what Long did at points in his life. A local boxer who is forced to retire because of health issues, he wants to make a name for himself and Hollywood is where he believes he can do well for him and his mother. He tries his luck and finds himself in bad situations until catching the eye of a young lady named Carmen who goes to church every Sunday. Long decides to clean up his act and do better and believes in joining the priesthood with ups and downs along the way.

The real Stuart Long passed away back in 2014, so this is a film that knows there will not be any sort of happy ending. I don't know how to explain the movie. No matter what throughout it, Long is determined to get what he wants. Even if it sounds crazy, he knows he has a true calling. It's also redemption, especially with the rocky relationship of his father, played by Mel Gibson. So many things you can describe. And it's a passion project that Wahlberg wanted to work on, hence helping finance it according to multiple websites. Redemption and also tragedy with Long's health and past wounds that don't heal.

Outside of some pacing issues, the cinematography had a bit of a grittiness and some excellent lighting usage at points. That was used with big effort in the later part of the film. There was a little bit more of a movie score along with a few songs here and there. The only other problems would be the subject matter. It was a decent enough film. Definitely an on the fence type of choice. If you're interested, see it before it gets pulled out of theaters within a few weeks. There's far worse true story movies.

Score: 6.5 out of 10

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Movie Review

Sonic the Hedgehog made for a good movie two years ago. It did a strong job with its CGI. Dr. Robotnik was a crazy character done well. When I reviewed it, I said it was surprisingly good. With the sequel now, it has a lot going and the expectations are very high. For the most part, it lands on its feet with ease. You're on a roller coaster ride of many things.

Sonic (Ben Schwartz) is enjoying life in Green Hills with Tom and Maddie Wachowski (James Marsden and Tika Sumpter). He does try to do good, but not to the best results. On his own for a weekend, His nemesis, Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey) returns from another dimension with a sidekick, Knuckles (Idris Elba). The two are on the search for the Master Emerald and Sonic must be taken care of. But the blue blur has his adopted human parents and new sidekick Tails (Colleen O'Shaughnessey) that can help him in a pinch and learn what it means to be a hero.

This one is more a race against the clock type of film. White knuckle (no pun intended) frantic adventure to save the world. It's a little more serious with a bit more banterish and pun type humor in the mix. Sonic is given all sorts of emotions of doing the best and struggling at keeping up with being ahead of Robotnik. While not as wacky like in the first, Carrey continues to shine as the mad scientist. Not as humorous, but he still has his times to shine with intellect. Knuckles has the warrior treatment with Elba playing him as though he came out of a comic book or fantasy world. They put in some nice insight of his story to get the Emerald. Speaking of that, they put in a fair share of references to various forms of media of Sonic throughout the 90s and 2000s.

The CGI is unbelievable along with creating amazing special effects. Some of it on Sonic and Knuckles is crazy excellent. A little more emphasis on songs, but there's still a focus on a movie score. It's got a wonderful cinematography and the lighting is magnificent. It's human scenes can be a little undercooked in a couple of scenes. Being a little longer than the first isn't necessarily bad. For a kids film, it might drag for some parents. However, the pacing is good. If you want a family flick, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is a good choice. This should have a strong run for a good couple of months.

Score: 7 out of 10

The Lost City Review

The Lost City is one of those films that caught my interest a little bit. I was a little hesitant to see it in theaters and waited on reviews. I would rate it right around where the critics would place it. It's a fun little film that has its share of adventure and some humor mixed into it. Not a straight up action. As much as I liked Uncharted, I would put Lost City over it, but not by far.

This is centered around Loretta, played by Sandra Bullock. She writes adventure novels and is part of a book tour that begins in New York. Along with that first promotional of the book is her cover model, Alan, played by Channing Tatum. Loretta is frustrated at having to do book touring. In the midst of it, she is kidnapped by a billionaire. Abigail, performed by Daniel Radcliffe, wants her to find the real treasure as done in the books. It ultimately become a rescue mission and a treasure hunt with a real sense of adventure.

The film takes its moments to be light hearted. Have some humor in it here and there. And then hit a serious moment. It finds a good balance on continuing the story. They develop the characters as it goes on. You get to understand the feelings of what Loretta and Alan are going through. The fact they open up more of Alan says a bit about wanting to be more than a book cover model. And Abigail is an eccentric bad guy. The performances altogether are well thought out. The action is not overdone and contribute to the story. Like I said, it finds good balance.

I like that there is more of a movie score with some songs put into it. The cinematography is excellent and the production design is well thought out for being a treasure hunt type of film. It can drag in a couple spots, though, and a couple characters do get somewhat annoying in some scenes. But otherwise, check out The Lost City. It's a fun popcorn film that isn't as ridiculous compared to other films.

Score: 7.5 out of 10

Uncharted (Movie) Review

I've only gotten familiar with Uncharted in the last five or so years. Enjoyed the original PlayStation 3 trilogy and heard stuff about a movie being made. It was in development hell for many years and it finally made its way to theaters this year. If you're a fan of the games, you'll get some good enjoyment out of it. Others, your mileage may vary. But a lighter action film that isn't a comic book adaptation feels necessary to have.

Tom Holland steps into the lead role of Nathan Drake, a young man who gets the opportunity of a lifetime. He meets Victor "Sully" Sullivan, played by Mark Wahlberg. Sully tells him about the treasure of Magellan and the adventure takes the duo to several parts of the world, trying to avoid a pair of bad guys, with Tati Gabrielle and Antonio Banderas filling in villain roles. This also has Sophia Ali playing Chloe Frazer, as this is more of an introduction to the characters without taking it too far.

This film tries to piece together elements from the games. For the most part, it succeeds. Moments with Nate and his brother Sam. Twists in the story with double crosses and betrayals. Death defying moments such as flying out of a plane and getting back into it. Traps and humor. Without spoiling it too much, it feels very much in tune with the games. But it also does give out a vibe of Indiana Jones and a little bit of Tomb Raider and The Goonies.

I like that it stuck to a musical score that works with the scenes with a minimal amount of songs. The cinematography was through the roof. Some of the effects look very real. That said, it can be a little ridiculous. I like the performances of Holland and Wahlberg, but I kind of wish Wahlberg would have had a little more gruffer voice similar to Richard McGonagle. The mileage will also vary on your experience of the series and if they got it down the first try. I'd like to see how Holland does if a sequel does get greenlit. Ali was magnificent as Chloe and I would like to see if she is implemented more if brought back.

I would try to see this in the theater. Gamers should have blast with this. Definitely room for improvement, but it captures the essence of Naughty Dog's vision, only in movie form.

Score: 7 out of 10

Dog Review

When I saw the trailer for Dog not too long ago, it seemed like it would have been a light hearted film with some serious moments. The story at face value seems like something I'd see in other movies and shows. What I saw was more of a serious film with a couple of lighter moments. It's not a great film, but I wouldn't call it anywhere bad.

Channing Tatum co-directed the film and plays Briggs, an army guy who has been on duty a number of times. He's had health problems, and he still wants to continue his service. That chance could happen if accomplishes a task. One of the members of his unit is dead and he has to take their unit's dog to the funeral. Unfortunately, the dog, Lulu, has issues itself and is rough. Cue a road trip where both Briggs and Lulu struggle with being in the real world to get to the funeral and the bond that can happen.

I think we take for granted or ignore the mental problems associated with military vets and military canines. That's kind of what I see with Dog. While there are no battle scenes, you notice scars on Briggs in some scenes and Lulu showing the same kind of aggression as if they were still in a war zone. How people act around them, thumbing their nose at them. That's the main takeaway I have with the film.

The lighting and cinematography is done well. Thomas Newman's score goes for the heart of that feeling that nothing can go right until it comes at the right moment. It has a few sappy songs to piece together some of the tender moments. Maybe it's just me, but the movie didn't resonate with me as much as I would have thought. I've been around dogs my whole life and I didn't get the same vibe like I did with the trailer. Still, I think there's a good message and also the strong bond between a human and their dog. It may not have resonated with me, but it might for you. I would still give it a chance in the theater. Bump it up a point or two if you think it's better. A lot of military people should watch it as should the biggest dog lovers. This could make the toughest war veteran cry.

Score: 6 out of 10

Fall Guys Review

Fall Guys was one of the big games when it first released back in August last year. There is an appeal for it. You can look at it from various ideas it inspired to be or ripped off. This will be out later in the year on other platforms, but for now, it's the PC or PlayStation 4. Fun can be had for it, though there are some flaws that do not help and stuff that could make stale much earlier than it should.

The game reminds me of  the Wipeout show, Takeshi's Castle (MXC), and Nickelodeon GUTS. You're competing with 59 others in various challenges and matches. A lot of races to qualify in a main show episode. Obstacle course type stuff. They can be simple or add variations to them to make it more difficult or easier. There's survival ones where you have to avoid hazards or jump over them. A couple random ones that rely on memory or other things. When you're on your own, there is a lot of skill that is needed to win an episode. Win or lose, you get fame and kudos, the latter being currency.

The graphics are very colorful and is easy on the eyes. I'm not too keen on the audio though. You can buy costume pieces with the kudos. Controls are easy to get into. While fun to get into, it does a few problems. One, most of the team games suck. It relies more on luck than actual skill to win those. A few of the individual ones are like that as well, but not to the extent of team ones. The physics can be a little wonky at times. Other players would rather screw people over by waiting at the finish line in races and go in last or grab you to make you die early on and get eliminated. Last, the matchmaking is not good. It's not that random and their choices are limited. Maybe there will be more. I don't know. As it stands, Fall Guys can be fun, but not to the level of what many saw when it released last summer.

Score: 7 out of 10

The Walking Dead: The Final Season Review (PS4)

If you were to look at the direction it was going. you would think The Walking Dead: The Final Season would be more of a cinematic experience when it first debuted in 2018. Some parts are, but you would be wrong. It tries to stand out a bit and be similar to the first game, bringing back some point and click elements. It does what I would say a satisfying finale for this series of games, though I question how much the original vision was used. This is Telltale's final game and Skybound took over when they shut down.

Final Season takes you back to Clementine, now an older teenager. She is in charge of a boy, AJ. They have survived the last few years and find themselves at a school consisting of kids. Trouble brews for them and they must show their worth and help them protect their area from an armed group of people. It pulls a few surprises and has a small Life is Strange vibe to it. Undercooked at first, but the story grows on you once you reach the second half of it.

The game does have its cinematic flavor with the time limits in choices and quick time events. However, it tries to bring back elements from the first game with the point and click aspect. Clem can interact, run, and speak to others in terms of controls. Decisions, as always, will never be unanimous. With a kid in tow, you also shape how AJ will be in the near future and help his growth in surviving or degrade it. Combat comes in a couple different forms such as shooting arrows to go with your melee and firearm tactics.

Graphically, the game is fantastic. Very gritty comic book like, continuing with the series approach. Better emphasis on color usage and lighting. You didn't see this with the other titles. With the audio, the voice overs are well done. Sound effects are fantastic. The music still continues to have that emphasis of peaceful/tense when things are calm and frantic with the action. It's a first for The Walking Dead to have some songs in it. Kind of similar to Life is Strange, but not as sappy nor the driving point of it. Strong altogether, though how you feel about songs is up to you.

There is a collectible part throughout the four episodes. Stuff that you're not forced to get, but adds a tiny bit of replayability. No major loading issues. Same options as before. The decisions feel like they hold a lot more weight than before. My final complaints are the usual nitpicks such as the quick time events and time limits on choices. For this one, the story and songs, but will depend on how you feel  about those two aspects. Still, it's worth getting The Walking Dead: The Final Season. It bows out with a strong finale.

Score: 8 out of 10

The Walking Dead Telltale Season One Review (PS3)

Let me preface this by saying I don't care for the television show of the same name. Anyway, The Walking Dead games is something only in the last couple of years I've enjoyed. My first experience was back in 2016 on the Xbox 360 with a demo and have since played it on PlayStation 3 version. It's a fantastic game that showcased what Telltale was great at, but also caused them to die.

The focus is on criminal Lee Everett. On his way to jail, it's the day of the zombie outbreak. Things spiral out of control. He manages to free himself and looking for help, meets seven year old Clementine in an empty neighborhood. With the two, they find themselves in situations where they have to survive on their own and with other survivors who have their own dilemmas. The bond between them brings a lot of emotion to it and you feel for specific characters.

A lot of the gameplay is based on choices. Older games from Telltale were more in tone with classic point and click games. There is some of the element in it, but the focus is more on a story and cinematic experience. It's choices include minor and major changes depending on the characters and situations. The choices are through a time limit, which is something I've never been huge on from the developer. A lot of their titles after that used this method.

The graphics are more of a comic book look, which is fitting. A little gritty with good animation. A step above some of the older games that Telltale made. Nothing that screams next generation, but its fine. The audio direction was well done. Music that creates tension and the action that occurs against the zombies and humans. Calm times before things get bad. Strong voice acting rounds out that facet of the game.

The controls work well with Lee. He interacts with objects and the conversations with other people. When needed, there is some quick time events, but they are not too common. There are a few puzzles here and there. It's designed to be linear with point A to point B moments. Not much exploration. But there is a mix of retaining some of the old elements and interjecting it with the new approaches. It is a bit easy and what you experience is up to you. Load times will be the main concern on a system like the PS3 and Xbox 360. 

The first season of The Walking Dead game is a must have for any system. Getting it right the first game is a necessary step to build a set of games.

Score: 9 out of 10

Playdate with Destiny Review

Eight years ago, Fox made a short for The Simpsons to go along with a new movie release. In all the years since, it's a surprise that they didn't make another one until this year. Playdate with Destiny was the short that aired in theaters before Onward and it's a cute and funny one.

As with The Longest Daycare, it is centered around the Simpson baby, Maggie. Marge take her to the park and she gets to play and meets a little boy. Everything is pure joy until the day ends. It's that Simpson fantasy of things being right with the world. Things go hectic with Homer taking her to a different park that is rough and rowdy. She will do anything to get back to the nice park and play with that little boy.

There's no dialogue and much like Daycare, it works effectively. The emotions seen out of Maggie is executed well. It has loads of nice animation throughout it. Music that fits the scenes perfectly. Quite a bit of visual gags and the fantasies are a sight to see. A cute way to cobble together another baby centric short that you can't get anywhere from Fox. It was much better than Onward. If you're a Simpson fan, give it a watch.

Score: 8 out of 10

Onward Review

I've seen a good majority of Pixar's movies. From what I've seen, I'd say they were good to excellent depending on what was in question. Onward might be the first one that I was not impressed with watching. Since the first Cars, I haven't seen too many films from this company outside of sequels. This came off as an overhyped movie and I'll be in the minority of this by saying this was disappointing.

Here's the thing. It has an interesting concept, which is something Pixar excels at in order to hook an audience in. The film is about magic. Long ago, it was used for many things. But as technology progressed, it became useless. In the modern world, brothers Ian and Barley are given a gift granted to them from their late father. A magic staff is handed down to them along with a spell to bring him back for a day. Ian winds up bringing him back to life, but only the lower half of his body. This spell only lasts 24 hours, and this awkward teen goes on a quest with his slacker brother to get a gem that would hopefully bring them their dad.

This is a road trip film for most of it. I would also say this is borderline a dramedy. I was expecting more humorous stuff judging by the trailers. But it's a depressing movie and one that has a lot of teen cliche moments. I wouldn't understand losing a direct family member (parents, siblings), but I have friends that have. I'm sure there's a message and meaning behind the point of the movie, but the biggest problem is the first half of the film. Nothing stood out and I found it rather dull and boring. And even if the second half was good, which it was, it's first half drags the entire film.

What's sad is that the fantasy moments are eye candy and under utilized. If there is ever plans for a sequel, they should expand more on the magic. The performances from the main leads are wasted on it. It's sad, because Tom Holland and Chris Pratt could be like actual brothers with the relationship Ian and Barley have throughout it with their acting. I did find Pratt to be a little annoying in some spots and Holland, although good, comes off as that nerdy cliche. The rest of the cast is solid enough and provide more of the humorous side of the film.

Even with the coronavirus invading the world, I still would not recommend Onward to anyone. Nothing about the first half helped and the second half can't do enough to save it.

Score: 5 out of 10

The Call of the Wild Movie Review

The Call of the Wild is one of the most recognized books of the 20th century. It is one that has been read by literally tens of millions since it was first published back in 1903. This was inspired by author Jack London's experience in the Yukon. There have been several adaptations over the years. This one does a fairly good job of trying to be accurate to the book, but has changes, which is no surprise with any of these adaptations.

Story-wise, it is centered on the dog, Buck. He is pampered and causes mischief. With the gold rush in the Yukon reaching an all time high, a Santa Clara citizen kidnaps him and ships him off to there and work as a sled dog. From there, the St. Bernard goes on various adventures with a team of dogs and whatever owners own him. Along the way, he meets John Thornton, who has had his share of troubles with family.

Considering the standards of animal rights these days, there is a bit of computer generated stuff throughout it. There is no way that they were going to do this with PETA coming in if things went south. And even then, teaching dogs to act is not easy. Terry Notary plays Buck and the CG and mannerisms help the performance. I know it ruins the authenticity for some, but for something like this, I don't think there was much choice.

As far as the adaptation goes, I would say it does a great job covering most of the story. Like I said, there is changes. You don't see any major deaths until late in it. They do alter the mid part and end of the book in this version. I look at this being a PG movie and not wanting to be completely dark. Not to mention there are a few parts at the end that are rather insensitive if they had filmed those parts. Even with this being PG, this is not a kids film. This is for adults. If you do take your kid to it, I'd be weary of a couple scenes.

I like the cinematography quite a bit. A lot of good use of color lighting for a number of scenes. There is a music score throughout the entire film and it is excellent. Harrison Ford plays John Thornton well and the writers make him someone you sympathize for. Dan Stevens' few scenes as Hal provide conflict in place of the original scenes. I enjoyed Omar Sy and Cara Gee's scenes early on as Buck's first caregivers in the Yukon.  The sledding parts were a blast and can put you on edge. It moves at a good pace. There isn't too much to say.

I don't have any real complaints. Maybe one or two scenes that drag and that it's not completely faithful. Considering other adaptations takes, this is more than likely the best one. A plot that stays true to the book somewhat. Nothing convoluted. The Call of the Wild is one I would check out in the theater before it gets pulled. Definitely enjoyable.

Score: 8 out of 10

Impractical Jokers: The Movie Review

Come summer time, it will be five years since I first got hooked onto Impractical Jokers. It waned within a year, but there's always highlights in the episodes. The group's movie is nothing more than being a bigger, more expanded version of the show. Judging by the plot, it had a route similar to what Jackass had with Bad Grandpa, but still in that light tone.

In the 90s, Joe, Sal, Q, and Murr all disguise as security guards to go to a Paula Abdul concert. Things go south really fast and a riot ensues . Twenty five plus years later, and Abdul spots them and sends an invite to a concert in Miami. One problem is that there are only three lanyards. As they drive down, they do hidden camera challenges and the one who loses the most does not go to the concert. Very simple story weaved in with real reactions.

Each Joker gets an opportunity to shine on their own with a challenge along with the group challenges offered. There's a decent balance between getting to the story and having the challenges. Nothing was notably cringeworthy, though one can be seen as embarrassing. It's nothing gut busting, but the humor involved will have you laughing constantly. The fact that they are doing this stuff in public and the reactions from strangers. It's an extended version of the show and the scope is bigger. They don't go that overboard in trying to have movie versions of the challenges.

With the scripted material, it's more than passable. I couldn't tell a huge difference between what was real and what was scripted. The Jokers acting is believable. I didn't find anything too cheesy. It ran by pretty quickly. No filler plots or anything. Just an overall funny movie that probably won't last too long in the theater. Definitely go see Impractical Jokers: The Movie. An adaptation that hits the marks very well.

Score: 8.5 out of 10

Sonic the Hedgehog (2020) Film Review

If I have to describe this new Sonic the Hedgehog film a couple words come to mind. It's surprisingly good. Considering last April with the design of the character and bringing it back to the table. This has been put into a bigger test if people would actually see it and the delay has paid off in its opening weekend.

Long ago, Sonic had a power ever since he was little. But it attracts bad guys and he must live in other planets, including Earth. With that, he resides in Green Hills, Montana, a small town lead by police officer Tom Wachowski. Both have their own goals. Sonic wants a real friend. Tom wants to do grander things to help the public similar to his veterinarian wife. But the hedgehog's upsetting emotion of being alone makes him speed very fast and cause a huge power outage. It prompts the government to bring in the psychotic Dr. Robotnik. And that's where the adventure starts.

With the performances, the voice of Sonic isn't annoying. Ben Schwartz does a solid enough job to not make it all about the attitude that the games make him out as. James Marsden has a wide range of emotions that work great in most of the film and falter in a couple scenes. Of course, the hoopla with Jim Carrey as Robotnik, it's not that over the top. Not to the level of Ace Ventura or The Mask, but definitely some crazy moments with the physical comedy. It could have been like an In Living Color character. Other characters are performed relatively well and deal with the idea of an alien hedgehog being in their world.

The CGI isn't overused. Sonic and his old planet were given a lot of care. Robotnik's technology is in line with later games. It is a little light on the comedy, but come in at the right times for the humor. What's nice is having a score that has its sappy moments, action. Doesn't rely on using songs as a crutch for its best moments. A number of references to the games and the idea of speed. It goes by at a good pace. I would stick for a few extra minutes when the credits as you don't want to miss what could happen.

There aren't many kids films out right now, but Sonic the Hedgehog isn't a bad choice. If you have kids, take them to the theater. They will be entertained. Fans will enjoy this as well. It could have been a disaster, but fixing stuff for the fans helped Paramount and Sega. This has a good two to three months of being in theaters throughout the country.

Score: 7 out of 10

Bad Boys For Life Review

I had some skepticism with Bad Boys for Life. I've liked the first two films and I wasn't sure where this was going to go. A different crew involved in production. But with all that aside, this was a rather good film in its own way. It's not in that Michael Bay style of action, but it knows when to save its best moments.

Life in Miami is still good for the cop duo of Marcus Burnett and Mike Lowrey. But with Marcus becoming a grandparent, the idea of retirement pops up. In the midst of this comes a Mexican gang lead by a mother and son. Long ago, things got ugly and are exacting revenge on the people that put them away. With operations in Miami, it gets very personal for Marcus and Mike. A new group to help them and figuring out the reason why for revenge, it's a ticking clock to stop the bloodshed.

If there's one thing that hasn't changed, it's the personalities. And kudos for sticking to Martin Lawrence and Will Smith because anyone else leading it would be a box office disaster. Marcus is still one to want to keep things peaceful until the shooting starts. And Mike is still a guns blazing type of cop. There's a good balance also of having humorous moments in it, having drama, and creating action when necessary. Although an expensive budget at 90 million, it's not reliant on explosion after explosion, and that's saved for the second half of the film.

There's more of a focus on story, and some of it does dig into Mike's past. Not many returning characters, but there is the return of Marcus' wife and daughter. Not to mention Captain Howard, who is still stressed as ever for the blunders. The new bad guys lead the story very well. A new division for the Miami Police makes for interesting moments, but are very competent in achieving their goals. Nothing feels over the top. While a popcorn flick at points, it's not fully in your face with it.

Like anything set in Miami, the cinematography is in line with getting the vivid colors, the nightlife. Other than the picture quality, some of it feels like Miami Vice. But it also gets the gritty aspects of it in scenes where the action is about to unfold. Speaking of that, it's intense. Marcus and Mike don't always win their battles. And that makes all the more satisfying when they rise to the occasion. Never a boring moment. Add in a hip hop approach along with a score that has you on your toes, and the movie delivers on what many have been waiting for since 2003.

Bad Boys for Life is one to see in the theater. While it may not teach old dogs new tricks, they can adapt to being different while retaining what made them cool.

Score: 7.5 out of 10.