Tag: ArianaDeBose

Argylle

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

The highly anticipated new espionage flick from director Matthew Vaughn is about Elly Conway (Bryce Dallas Howard), a reclusive novelist who doesn’t get out much. When the plot of one of her books gets a little too close to real life events, she finds herself swept up into a life that she only ever wrote about in her books. With the help of real agent Aidan (Sam Rockwell), the two must think ahead of the game to save themselves.

Argylle had all the right ingredients for a great film. Unfortunately it fell completely and utterly short in so many ways. While it did start off promisingly enough, it wasn’t long before I started to lose track of what exactly was going on as the plot grew more and more convoluted. At some point, I couldn’t help but wonder if we were supposed to be taking it seriously or if it was some sort of parody.

One of the issues here was that there was simply too much happening at once. It was as though one detail from every spy movie to ever exist was added in to make the ultimate spy film. I’m not sure why they thought this was the right move because instead of it having a positive effect, I’d say the opposite happened instead. And once the twists were introduced, they just didn’t stop.

Another aspect that really bugged me was Howard’s performance. I understand that Elly was supposed to be scared – anybody would be in her position! However, I got annoyed with her very quickly and eventually kept rolling my eyes every time she was on screen which was obviously a lot considering she’s the main character. At least the rest of the cast was filled to the brim with big stars from the likes of Henry Cavill, to Dua Lipa and Ariana DeBose, Bryan Cranston, John Cena and of course Catherine O’Hara that it almost didn’t matter.

To say that Argylle was a disappointment is an understatement. I had been so looking forward to it especially since it was helmed as being the new Kingsman. It seemed as though there were some good foundations set that just weren’t executed well at all. I’ll probably still check out any future instalments to see if this one was just a fluke, but it wasn’t off to a great start.

Rating: ♥️♥️

Wish

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

In celebration of one hundred years of Disney comes Wish. In the city of Rosas, people’s wishes are given to King Magnifico (Chris Pine) for safe keeping. When Asha (Ariana DeBose) learns that Magnifico is not what he seems, she makes a wish so powerful that it is answered by Star. Together with Star and her goat Valentino (Alan Tudyk), Asha must save her kingdom.

While reading up on what others have thought about the film so far, I was surprised with all the negativity. Disney has had so many home runs over the years, it’s hard for me to fathom a flop. That being said, I wasn’t put off by what people were saying as I knew it was important for me to see it for myself. I’m so glad that I did because I loved it!

Firstly, there was no other choice for Asha than DeBose. Bringing this now iconic character to life with her determination and angelic voice was brilliant to witness. The fact that she never gave up no matter obstacles were thrown in her way was truly inspiring and I’m sure youngsters will be able to look up to her. I didn’t know what to think of Pine taking on the role of the villain initially as I’d never seen him in something similar. He completely made Magnifico his own. The charisma he put into the character and his decline was done perfectly. Additionally, Tudyk was hilarious as Valentino. I appreciated the fact that he didn’t oversell his performance and instead picked his moments to shine.

Another aspect I found so well done was the use of Easter eggs littered throughout the story. These callbacks to previous Disney films from Snow White, to Sleeping Beauty and Bambi gave the film a little more magic. I liked how some were very obvious while others were a little harder to identify. I already want to go back and pay attention to these details to see if I can find anymore!

Wish is epitome of Disney. It showcases the importance of family, friendship and being true to yourself. It really bums me out to hear that so many people didn’t see what I did. While most will say the film is generic and missing that spark, I have to disagree. An instant classic to me for sure.

Rating: ♥️♥️♥️♥️

West Side Story

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Adapted from the 1957 musical, West Side Story has been reimagined for a new generation. Following the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, two street gangs in New York City, everything changes when Tony (Ansel Elgort) and Maria (Rachel Zegler) fall in love. They’re willing to give it all up to be together regardless of how their friends and family may feel.

I surprised myself when I added this new version by Steven Spielberg to my list. While I am a huge musical lover, I was never a fan of the original. There was something about it this time around, though, that captured my attention and I had a feeling I would regret it if I missed out.

My mind was blown by some of the performances. Rachel Zegler was the perfect choice for Maria. Her breakout role was definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity and I bet she is going to be everywhere from here on out. Rita Moreno, who starred as Anita in the original, had a special role this time around. I love how she was the guiding light for many of the characters and she even got her own song! The standout for me, however, was Ariana DeBose. She was so impressive that I hope she’ll get some award nominations.

At the end of the day, I am so glad that I took another chance on this musical. Something about it was different and really touched me. I even cried when it was all over and the people in my theatre room clapped. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but it’s one of the best movies I’ve seen this year. Who would have thought?

Rating: ♥♥♥♥.5