Spirited

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

We all know Charles Dickens’ classic story A Christmas Carol. A somewhat awful person is visited by the ghosts of past, present and future in hopes that they will learn from their mistakes and become a better person. Spirited is the modernized version. Clint Briggs (Ryan Reynolds) is considered to be irredeemable; he doesn’t care what anybody thinks about him. But Present (Will Ferrell) wants to give Clint a chance to turn things around. And so begins a most magical adventure…

I feel like we’ve been waiting for Spirited to release for forever. It’s been sitting in the coming soon section of Apple TV+ all year long. Luckily it did not disappoint.

Although it took some time for me to become invested in the story, once I got there, it was all smooth sailing for me. I wanted to know why Clint was such an asshole and I doubted whether or not he really could change. It was such a breath of fresh air to have Reynolds play a different kind of character. The same can be said for Ferrell. He didn’t bother me like he usually does and his scenes with Reynolds were so entertaining.

The film would not be complete without Octavia Spencer. As Kimberly was a great addition not only as Clint’s work colleague, but also as a love interest for Present. I also loved seeing the different ghosts. I wish Past (Sunita Mani) had been featured more as I found her important to the story. Yet-To-Come (Loren G. Woods and Tracy Morgan respectively) was probably my favorite due to the fact that his looks and voice did not match whatsoever. And then of course there was Marley (Patrick Page) who audiences may remember from the original.

Turning this into a musical was a brilliant idea. The songs were catchy and the choreography exceptional. Combine the two with a Christmas backdrop and you have a winner. I may have been unsure about some of the actors’ singing talents, but I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised.

Overall, Spirited is a holiday treat for the whole family to enjoy. Despite the slow start, it really picks up and whisks you away for two hours. It has a good moral and some twists along the way that keep you on the edge of your seat.

Rating: ♥♥♥.5

The People We Hate At The Wedding

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

When Alice (Kristen Bell) and Paul (Ben Platt) receive invites to their estranged half sister’s (Cynthia Addai-Robinson) wedding in England, they couldn’t be more disappointed. They may have been close when they were kids, but something happened that prompted the three to lead separate lives. Their mother Donna (Allison Janney) hopes this occasion will get them to reconcile.

Sometimes a comedy is just what the doctor ordered and although The People We Hate At The Wedding was pegged as so, the genres did get a little muddled along the way. Mostly over the top and not at all realistic as a result, I couldn’t help but laugh at certain antics our characters found themselves in (the bachelorette party comes to mind). However, as the layers are peeled back and we learn about the events that transpired between the three siblings, the film takes a turn for the dramatic. I’m not sure if the shift in tone actually worked or if it ruined the vibe it otherwise had.

The all star cast of Bell, Platt and Janney is what initially drew me. Bell and Platt, in particular, as a snarky brother sister duo sounded like a dream come true. I only wish I could have been warned as to how unlikable these characters were! At the beginning, the audience feels like they need to root for them and in turn dislike other sister Eloise. However, as the film progresses, we start realizing the opposite. I think this would have been even more impactful had we had more insight to Eloise’s life in London and how she always felt left out.

At least the supporting cast and Eloise are a breath of fresh air. On the plane ride to London, Alice meets Dennis (Dustin Milligan). He’s clearly introduced as a love interest, yet its unfortunate Alice spends most of the time yearning after her married with a baby boss. Then there is Donna’s first husband and Eloise’s father Henrique (Isaach De Bankóle), who’s there to stir up trouble.

Overall, The People We Hate At The Wedding started off strongly and did manage to keep me entertained the whole way through. It’s just a pity that it lost the bite it had from the get go. I understand what they were trying to do, but it wasn’t executed properly.

Rating: ♥♥.5

Disenchanted

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

Ten years after the events of Enchanted, the storybook opens once more on Giselle (Amy Adams), Robert (Patrick Dempsey) and Morgan (Gabriella Baldacchino). After the birth of baby Sofia, Giselle thinks its time they move somewhere new. Unfortunately, Morgan is anything but thrilled at the idea of leaving behind her beloved New York for Monroeville. When the two get off on the wrong foot in their new home, Giselle makes a wish that changes all their lives forever. Can every day really be a fairytale?

Getting all the gang back for the sequel that fans have been waiting years for was a wondrous sight. Amy Adams is the epitome of Giselle. Her mannerisms and high pitched voice complete with her charming innocence it was makes her so lovable. This time around, it was interesting have her go through a complete transformation unlike anything we’d seen before. Another bright point of the film was having more time with Nancy (Idina Menzel) and Edward (James Marsden). I always felt like they needed more time in the original so this was a treat for me.

Amongst the returning cast were the newbies. Maya Rudolph portrayed the role of wannabe evil queen Malvina. While I’m not a fan of Rudolph’s, I have to say that she was perfect here. The way in which she worked off of Adams made for some really fun scenes. I wish we could have learned more about her and her minions Rosaleen (Yvette Nicole Brown) and Ruby (Jayma Mays).

In typical Disney fashion, I was transported into a land straight out of my dreams. The bright and vibrant color palette really worked and I loved how that only changed as the plot turned into something more dark and sinister. On top of that was the delightful costume designs; I basically envied every single one of Giselle’s outfits. And who can forget the new, catchy soundtrack?

Enchanted is one of my all time favorite films. I remember the first time I watched it and it still makes me tear up at the end. I always thought it was genius to play off of typical fairytale stories and then putting a new spin on them. There was no way that Disenchanted would be better. I hoped it would come close and there were elements I really did like. For the most part though, it seemed like some of that magic was missing. Maybe it was the tired evil stepmother trope that did it. Regardless, I did finally get a glimpse into Giselle and co.’s lives post happily ever after so I guess I can’t really complain.

Rating: ♥♥.5

Christmas With You

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

Pop star Angelina (Aimee Garcia) used to be on top of the world, but she hasn’t felt that way lately. When the head of her label suggests she write a Christmas song, Angelina is beside herself. Ever since her mom passed away a couple years ago, she’s struggled to find the holiday spirit. But when she stumbles upon a video of one of her fans on social media, Angelina feels her luck may be changing. Cristina (Deja Monique Cruz) and her dad Miguel (Freddie Prince Jr.) are surprised when the superstar seeks them out. Learning that Miguel writes music, Angelina believes that all her problems will soon be over.

I had high expectations for my second Christmas film of the season, though if I’m being honest, I really wanted to watch this because of Freddie Prinze Jr. My teenage heart could hardly contain itself when news broke that he was finally coming back to the silver screen. A heartthrob then and now, I enjoyed nothing more than being able to watch him for an hour and a half uninterrupted.

Having previously starred in Netflix’s Lucifer, being able to see Aimee Garcia in something new was a treat. The role of Angelina could have been an interesting one, but at times I felt like something was missing. It was as if the emotions weren’t as genuine enough and her lines didn’t quite meet the eyes. At least she can sing! I wish she had better chemistry with Prince Jr. too. The familial relationship between Miguel, Cristina and Frida (Socorro Santiago) was fine enough, but it felt all too familiar after having just watched Falling For Christmas a week ago. That being said, I did appreciate the heavy Latino influences and learning more about a quinceanera. Additionally, the role of Monique (Zenzi Williams), Angelina’s dutiful assistant provided some much needed comedic relief.

Christmas With You had all the ingredients for a fabulous holiday movie and while there were some cute moments, I expected more. The fact that the storyline was very similar to this year’s Marry Me didn’t help as that was such a home run for me.

Rating: ♥♥

Armageddon Time

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

A coming of age story based on the life of director, writer and producer James Gray, Armageddon Time chronicles the life of a Jewish American family. The son in particular, Paul Graff (Banks Repeta), is a kid who dreams of becoming an artist. He struggles to understand the expectations not only within his family but society too, especially when he befriends the rebellious Johnny Davis (Jaylin Webb).

Where this movie really did well was in its performances. To have big names such as Anthony Hopkins, Anne Hathaway and Jeremy Strong star along aside each other was something in itself. And to think that they were all supporting roles who still managed to shine whenever they were on screen. This does not take away whatsoever from the acting chops of Repeta and Webb. As the story is primarily told through the eyes of both children, we see them most of all. I was worried I wouldn’t able to relate to them, but I have to say that the contrary happened.

Paul is different from those around him. His two favorite things in the world are drawing and his beloved grandpa. He doesn’t understand why he has to go to school or why he can’t be friends with the only African American in his class. The fact that he always tried to stick to his guns and stand up for what he believes to be true, at his age, was something I admired.

Unfortunately the story itself gets a bit muddled throughout. There is no clear direction or incident that moves the pace along. It is very much a character driven story and while there’s nothing wrong with that, I kept waiting for something big to happen. The same could be said for the way in which the film ended. It was left open for interpretation and I’m not sure I liked that too much.

At the end of the day, I’m very glad to have seen Armageddon Time. While not originally on my radar, it was an interesting portrayal of a time gone by, but still held true to how life is today.

Rating: ♥♥♥.5

Falling For Christmas

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

Hotel heiress Sierra Belmont (Lindsay Lohan) has it all. A fabulous wardrobe, the best staff on hand and a handsome fiancé Tad (George Young). While out on a skiing trip, Sierra falls off the mountain, hits her head and loses her memory. When lodge owner Jake Russell (Chord Overstreet) finds her, he, his daughter Avy (Olivia Perez) and mother in law Alejandra (Alejandra Flores) take her in.

To start off the festive season with Falling For Christmas seemed fitting, especially as it was Lindsay Lohan’s triumphant return to acting! Not starring in a feature film since 2007, I was more than ready to have her back on the big screen. The charisma and charm she oozed was always refreshing, not to mention the fact that she was an idol to me growing up. I’m so glad that she got her life back on track and is now starring in movies again. Not only is she acting again, she is also back to singing too. Fans should keep their eyes peeled for the perfect Mean Girls throwback. If you know, you know.

While the movie had a lot of funny moments, at the forefront was the budding love story between Sierra and Jake. I thought the chemistry between Lohan and Overstreet was cute. Seeing how welcoming he was to her and how patient he was in regards to her getting her memory back was lovely to watch. The way in which they both interacted with Avy was cute too. In addition, the inclusion of Avy’s maternal grandmother was a nice touch; I thought the four of them made such an adorable little family.

Everything about this movie screamed Christmas. From the snowy mountains to the extravagant decorations , I was instantly transported to a happier place. It may only be the middle of November, but it’s never too early if you ask me. Falling For Christmas had everything a holiday movie is supposed to have: romance, comedy and warm and fuzzy feelings. This is one I will be adding to my annual rewatch list for sure.

Rating: ♥♥♥

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

“For our friend Chadwick Boseman.”

The world lost a superhero when Boseman passed away from cancer in the summer of 2020. Many wondered how the Black Panther franchise would carry on without him. Would he be recasted? Would they use old footage or digitalize him? We all waited in bated breath until finally the film was released this week. I can officially say that the work Ryan Coogler and the cast have done is phenomenal. From the very opening of the film where we see how Shuri (Letitia Wright), Queen Romanda (Angela Bassett), Okoye (Danai Gurira) and M’Baku (Winston Duke) are dealing with T’Challa’s (Chadwick Boseman) death and beyond, I knew that this movie was going to be something special.

Everything about Wakanda Forever was stunning. The incredible landscapes and cinematography was like something of a dream. The special effects and fight sequences were upped a notch and kept me on my toes. And on top of that, the plot was intricate and entertaining. The way in which it’s all built up after the initial tragedy was handled well. I also loved the introduction of antagonist Namor (Tenoch Huerta). His backstory was super interesting and also different than anything we’d seen before. The fact that he was multilayered was something I appreciated a lot.

The performances here are out of this world. Wright takes the lead and she does a brilliant job. You feel her pain and anguish in Shuri missing her brother just as you feel her determination in defending her country. Her chemistry was palpable with everyone she shared the screen with. Alternatively, Bassett was another standout. I was actually left breathless during a couple of her scenes. It was great having Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) and Everett Ross (Martin Freeman) back in the mix along with newcomers Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne) and Aneka (Michaela Coel).

I don’t think I can ever properly describe my feelings about Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The emotion hit me like a ton of bricks and it didn’t let up for one moment. Complete with outstanding acting chops and a phenomenal story, I do believe that this is one of the best additions in the MCU so far.

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

Weird: The Al Yankovic Story

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

If you were expecting a completely accurate biopic about Al Yankovic’s life, this is not it.

Weird: The Al Yankovic Story is a satire about the musician’s life. From when he was young and received his own accordion from a travelling salesman, to when he records his first hit and signs with a label, then ultimately continues on into superstardom, everything you never needed to know about Weird Al is right here (or not).

In all honesty, I probably would not have watched this movie if it wasn’t for Daniel Radcliffe. I’ve been a fan of his for as long as I can remember (and at one point I even had a solid case as to why the two of us should be together) and think he is such a breath of fresh air. Having completely broken the mould left behind from his Potter days, Radcliffe tends to choose roles that are usually off the beaten path. Although Yankovic himself approached him to star, Radcliffe did an amazing job. The fact that he learned how to play the accordion and had all the mannerisms down pat was just a plus. I almost wish he’d been the one singing too.

As for the story itself, it is completely and one hundred per cent batshit crazy. I mean that in the best way possible. Do not take anything to heart because it is all exaggerated on purpose. The fact that this is how Yankovic wanted it to be made it all worth while. At times I do wish we’d had more of an idea as to what was more real and what was fabricated, but after a while I wasn’t as bothered anymore. At least his most memorable songs made it into the film! While I may not be completely familiar with his work, I do know some of his hits such as Like A Surgeon and I Love Rocky Road.

Another reason why this film is so fun is because of its colorful cast of characters. Evan Rachel Wood is the perfect choice for Madonna. From her looks to her little quirks, I just wish they’d given her the chance to sing too. To have Rainn Wilson as Dr. Demento, a mentor of sorts for our lead and Quinta Brunson as Oprah Winfrey was just the cherry on top of one of the most crazy array of cameos I have ever seen.

Overall, Weird: The Al Yankovic Story was exactly what you’d expect it to be: weird. I may not have learned anything new about Al, but I don’t think that was the point. At the end of the day, it all came down to being true to who you are and I think that was perfectly illustrated.

Rating: ♥♥♥

Enola Holmes 2

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

Lovable detective Enola Holmes (Millie Bobby Brown) is back and this time she’s got her own business up and running. Following in her brother Sherlock’s (Henry Cavill) footsteps, she intends to stand out from the crowd, though that may not be as easy as she thought. But when a young girl comes into her shop and asks for Enola’s help to find her sister, everything changes. Something far more complicated than it seems, Enola must turn to her family and friends to solve the case.

Millie Bobby Brown was, once again, a force to be reckoned with. The absolute charisma and charm she brings to Enola is mesmerizing. Not only does she shine every time she is onscreen, the predicaments she constantly finds herself in take the audience on constant twists and turns that leaves them wondering how it will all come together. Similarly, I have always felt like Henry Cavill was a good fit as Sherlock. I liked that we had a bit more of him this time around.

The returns of both Helena Bonham Carter as Eudoria Holmes and Louis Partridge as Tewkesbury was a welcome treat. In addition, the newcomers that were introduced to help flesh out the story were perfectly casted. David Thewlis was menacing as villain Grail and Sharon Duncan-Brewster was enigmatic enigmatic as Mira Troy. It was also fun getting to know Serrana Su-Ling Bliss and Hannah Dodd who played Matchstick Girls Bessie and Sarah respectively.

Speaking of the Matchstick Girls, the way in which their significance was woven into the film was such a brilliant move. Having the opportunity to learn more about them was not only fascinating to me, it was also very inspiring. I didn’t know anything about them prior to watching, but as soon as the film was over, I continued on with my research. I loved how Enola Holmes shed some light on this incredible step for women everywhere.

The original Enola Holmes film was such a home run for me, I wasn’t sure how its successor would hold up. I’m so happy to report that it was just as good, if not slightly better in certain ways. With Enola growing older, I feel like she’s not only becoming more relatable, she is also becoming a role model for women of all ages. The film is super fun with many hijinks along the way. It is definitely one of the best things that Netflix has ever gotten their hands on.

Rating:  ♥♥♥♥

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

Based upon the book by Gabrielle Zevin, The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry is about a bookshop owner (Kunal Nayyar) who is struggling to stay afloat after the death of his wife. Tending to drink himself to sleep at night, he’s at his wits end. But then the unthinkable happens – a child is left in the store with instructions that A.J. must look after her from now on. Without second guessing it, he takes the girl under his wing, unbeknownst to himself that she is giving him a second chance.

This movie had everything I could possibly love wrapped into one. The romance aspect was perfectly executed with its budding relationship between A.J. and Amelia (Lucy Hale). Starting off as colleagues, becoming friends and eventually more, the gradual order of events made sense for both characters and really made me root for them to end up together. Nayyar and Hale’s chemistry was effortless and helped make their love story all the more realistic.

I loved the father daughter relationship that A.J. shared with Maya. Played by Charlotte Thanh Theresin, Jordyn McIntosh and Blaire Brown over the years, her introduction into A.J.’s life really was the turning point for the story. From then on, he was given a purpose and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for her. I consider my father to be my best friend and so this was a touching plot point to watch unfold.

What you probably wouldn’t expect about this film is that there is an air of mystery to it. Starting with A.J.’s most prized possession being stolen from his house one night while he is blackout drunk and some more instances that occur throughout, they keep the audience on their toes. I like how this wasn’t your typical romance where you can pretty much guarantee how it’ll all come together.

Taking place in a beautiful beachside location, with a stellar supporting cast consisting of Christina Hendricks, David Arquette and Scott Foley and great performances by the two leads, The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry will surely capture your heart right from beginning to end. I unfortunately didn’t get around to reading the book before watching, but you can bet your ass I ordered myself a copy as soon as the credits rolled.

Rating: ♥♥♥.5