One of the girls I coach on my gymnastics team says she hasn't seen nor read The Hunger Games because it's all about death. I quickly said that it's about way more than that, and offered to let her watch my dvd. Then, we got back to practicing. The Hunger Games series whether in book or movie form is about way more than death and murder. It's about revolution and how one person, one situation, one incident, one spark can catch fire and cause this revolution which can bring about change. And, with this series being for young adult, it's the perfect audience to try and get this point across to this self-centered generation.
Catching Fire is the second installment in The Hunger Games series. This book/movie is the beginning of the physical revolution when the people of Panem decide that because of Katniss' rebellion during the 74th Hunger Games, they are ready to start rebelling themselves against the Capitol. Now, if you haven't read or seen The Hunger Games, you have no idea what I mean, and I'ma need you to catch up with the rest of us. Catching Fire picks up right where The Hunger Games left off, a couple of months after the end of the games. Katniss now has to deal with how Gale feels about her and Peeta's on screen love, proving to President Snow that she really does care about Peeta, and the Quarter Quell. I really can't tell you much more about the story without spoiling some major plots, but I will say this...the plot thickens, and if you didn't already hate the Capital for sending kids into the games to fight to the death or for starving the people in the twelve districts, you will after your hear the Gamemakers' decision about who will go into the 75th Hunger Games.
This movie stayed true to the book. There were only a couple of major details and a few minor details missing. The integrity of the book was still there. The characters looked exactly like I pictured them, and their personalities were spot-on. Jennifer Lawrence is the perfect Katniss Everdeen, and when I read Cinna, I only see Lenny Kravitz now, but it's Jeffery Wright as Beetee and Lynn Cohen as Mags that were absolutely perfect. I wouldn't have given that part to Jeffery Wright, but he played the nerdy role very well. Jena Malone, really brought out Johanna's strength and Sam Claflin was a fantastic Finnick, although I was expecting someone a little bit more handsome. But, I really think that Elizabeth Banks reprising her role as Effie Trinket really steals the show when she's on the screen. I don't think anyone could have done her better.
Will I be adding Catching Fire to my dvd collection? Most certainly. Of course it's not as good as the book, but it's a pretty close depiction. I enjoyed it. The kids in the theater loved it so much they clapped several times. (Clearly they hadn't read the book because they were shocked by the ending. I overheard one girl say, "There better be another one, or I'm gonna be pissed.") The other adults around me were on the edge of their seats. I too was just as into the movie as I was the book. There will be two more movies as Mockingjay is being broken up into two movies. I can't wait! I hope everyone returns and the writers can really capture the revolution in Panem the way the book does. I also hope that I can convince my gymnast to catch the fire we all have for this series and see these Hunger Games movies and read the books.
Next Week: OOH LAWD, my husband Idris Elba will be on the screen for 2 hours as Mandela!
Friday, November 22, 2013
Friday, November 15, 2013
The Best Man Holiday - The Best Sequel
Have you ever seen a movie, loved it, then heard they were making a sequel, and immediately became skeptical that it wouldn't do the original justice? Me too, especially when it comes to The Best Man staring Taye Diggs, Nia Long, Morris Chestnut, Terrence Howard, and Sanaa Lathan. I loved that movie, and so did many others. It was the first time a rom-com with a 100% black cast went number one at the box office. But, that was back in 1999, 14 years ago. Can it be done again? I say ABSO-FREAKIN-LOUTELY!!! The Best Man Holiday may be one of the best sequels ever!!!
One thing that can destroy a movie sequel is not bringing back the original cast. TBMH brought back the entire cast. Taye Diggs and the yummy smile of his was there leading the charge. His character, Harper Stewart, is now happily married with a baby on the way, and after the success of his book which was the premise of The Best Man, he's searching for a new bestselling book to pay off the many bills he and his new family has. Sanaa Lathan, plays his wife and expectant mother, Robin. Morris Chestnut is as sexy and chocolaty as sexual chocolate can be! There is a God, and He certainly got that one right, hunty. Morris reprises his role as Lance Sullivan, the very successful and super spiritual NFL running back who is married to Mia, his college sweetheart, played by Monica Calhoun. They are happily married with four kids (I'm really hoping 2 of them are adopted because they look like they only got a drop of black blood in them), and they want all their friends together to celebrate Christmas. They haven't all been together since The Sullivan wedding over a decade ago.
Nia Long is back as Jordan Long. She's Mia's BFF and Harper's former love interest. Now they are just friends as Jordan has her own love interest in Brian McDonald played by Eddie Cibrian. Brian is a very attractive executive, and the fact that he is white isn't lost on any of their friends. Julian Murch (Harold Perrineau) is now married to the stripper from Lance's bachelor party, Candy. Candice (Regina Hall) and Julian now have two daughters and are running a private school together. They have a little bit of trouble raising money when Candice's past as Candy is discovered by former donors. They also have to contend with Julian's former girlfriend, Shelby (Melissa De Sousa), being invited to the Christmas festivities at Lance and Mia's home. There are tons of awkward and funny moments between those three especially when you throw in Quentin's upfront and sarcastic remarks. Quentin is played by Terrence Howard. Quentin is now a successful businessman, but is still single and sleeping with any woman that'll fall for those pretty eyes, smooth talk, and middle aged belly.
Another thing that can destroy a sequel is not staying true to the integrity of the original and reusing the same jokes (ever seen The Hangover 2 or 3). TBMH reminds you of the bond between these friends, and how true friends are there for you when times are at their lowest. This group of friends have accomplished a lot, but it's not without trials and tribulations. They seem to be there for each through it all. This movie will make you laugh and cry. Girl, you will boo hoo. Bring a box or two of tissues because you are going to go through it all with them. From illness, to fertility issues, poor parenting, and money problems, these friends are there for each other spiritually, financially, and emotionally, and you will feel all of the emotions right along with them.
I laughed; I cried; I lusted after Morris, many many times. (Him in that fedora and suit singing "Can You Stand the Rain" was EVERYTHING)!!!) I enjoyed this movie. I'm so glad I did because I was going to be extremely disappointed if it was garbage. It's not quite a Christmas movie because of the very serious and sad nature of the last 45 minutes or so, but it'll get you in the spirit if you have a little "bah humbug" in you. The ending is VERY predictable, but I really couldn't care because the rest of the movie was so good. One more thing that made this movie great: the soundtrack. It was off the chain. I may have to get it because it I like the new takes on old Christmas songs. So, go see The Best Man Holiday. Let's make it the number one movie again. Remember what happened last time we did? We actually got a string of decent Madea-free black movies for awhile. Here's hoping.
Next Week: Catching Fire!!!!
One thing that can destroy a movie sequel is not bringing back the original cast. TBMH brought back the entire cast. Taye Diggs and the yummy smile of his was there leading the charge. His character, Harper Stewart, is now happily married with a baby on the way, and after the success of his book which was the premise of The Best Man, he's searching for a new bestselling book to pay off the many bills he and his new family has. Sanaa Lathan, plays his wife and expectant mother, Robin. Morris Chestnut is as sexy and chocolaty as sexual chocolate can be! There is a God, and He certainly got that one right, hunty. Morris reprises his role as Lance Sullivan, the very successful and super spiritual NFL running back who is married to Mia, his college sweetheart, played by Monica Calhoun. They are happily married with four kids (I'm really hoping 2 of them are adopted because they look like they only got a drop of black blood in them), and they want all their friends together to celebrate Christmas. They haven't all been together since The Sullivan wedding over a decade ago.
Nia Long is back as Jordan Long. She's Mia's BFF and Harper's former love interest. Now they are just friends as Jordan has her own love interest in Brian McDonald played by Eddie Cibrian. Brian is a very attractive executive, and the fact that he is white isn't lost on any of their friends. Julian Murch (Harold Perrineau) is now married to the stripper from Lance's bachelor party, Candy. Candice (Regina Hall) and Julian now have two daughters and are running a private school together. They have a little bit of trouble raising money when Candice's past as Candy is discovered by former donors. They also have to contend with Julian's former girlfriend, Shelby (Melissa De Sousa), being invited to the Christmas festivities at Lance and Mia's home. There are tons of awkward and funny moments between those three especially when you throw in Quentin's upfront and sarcastic remarks. Quentin is played by Terrence Howard. Quentin is now a successful businessman, but is still single and sleeping with any woman that'll fall for those pretty eyes, smooth talk, and middle aged belly.
Another thing that can destroy a sequel is not staying true to the integrity of the original and reusing the same jokes (ever seen The Hangover 2 or 3). TBMH reminds you of the bond between these friends, and how true friends are there for you when times are at their lowest. This group of friends have accomplished a lot, but it's not without trials and tribulations. They seem to be there for each through it all. This movie will make you laugh and cry. Girl, you will boo hoo. Bring a box or two of tissues because you are going to go through it all with them. From illness, to fertility issues, poor parenting, and money problems, these friends are there for each other spiritually, financially, and emotionally, and you will feel all of the emotions right along with them.
I laughed; I cried; I lusted after Morris, many many times. (Him in that fedora and suit singing "Can You Stand the Rain" was EVERYTHING)!!!) I enjoyed this movie. I'm so glad I did because I was going to be extremely disappointed if it was garbage. It's not quite a Christmas movie because of the very serious and sad nature of the last 45 minutes or so, but it'll get you in the spirit if you have a little "bah humbug" in you. The ending is VERY predictable, but I really couldn't care because the rest of the movie was so good. One more thing that made this movie great: the soundtrack. It was off the chain. I may have to get it because it I like the new takes on old Christmas songs. So, go see The Best Man Holiday. Let's make it the number one movie again. Remember what happened last time we did? We actually got a string of decent Madea-free black movies for awhile. Here's hoping.
Next Week: Catching Fire!!!!
Friday, November 8, 2013
Thor: The Dark World - The Dark Experience
I can't honestly review the movie Thor: The Dark World fully because my movie going experience was a rather dark one. During the movie which stars the sexy Chris Hemswoth (Thor), my husband, Idris Elba (The guardian), the great Anthony Hopkins (Thor's father), and Natalie Portman (Thor's girlfriend), I dozed off multiple times. Most of the dozing happened during the action scenes. I fell asleep during the most action-packed part of the movie at the end. I'm not sure if I was bored or tired, but you'd think if a movie was truly exciting, I could make it. But, to no avail.
This movie takes place after the events that occurred during The Avengers and 2 years after the events of the first Thor movie. There were mentions and nods to both, so make sure you've seen them before watching this. Basically, some dark elves from a millennia ago wanted to destroy all the light in the 9 worlds or realms by using the Aether, but these dark elves', led by Malekith, plans were foiled by Thor's predecessors. The present day aligning of the 9 worlds is a perfect time to try again. One problem is that the Aether is now in Thor's girlfriend, Jane Foster, and he has to enlist his evil and ambitious brother, Loki's help to protect her, destroy the Aether, and the dark elves. On top of that, Thor has to deal with idea of one day being king, being in love with a human when there's a perfectly good woman from his realm in front of him. I know, it's a lot. Maybe I feel asleep because the storyline was too complicated. Maybe my brain was overloaded and needed to reboot every now and then so it shut down for a minute or three.
Although my eyes were constantly a flutter, I couldn't miss the cast of supporting characters. Adebisi makes an appearance as Malekith's trusted and monstrous second in command. I haven't seen him on the screen since "OZ". Thor's mother, Frigga (Rene Russo), has crazy knife skills. Don't sleep on her because you might get cut. The comic relief was the often naked or pants-less Dr. Erik and quirky Darcy. They are a scientist and an intern who work with Jane Foster. The two brought lots of chuckles and craziness to an already busy yet dark movie.
Was the movie good? I guess, I don't know. I was sleeping. I'm sure it was entertaining, but it's long, and at some point, slow; and let's not forget that complicated storyline. I couldn't really focus on the movie with the couple next to me talking to each other, and a special needs man talking to the screen. I will say, that there is more that happens once the credits role that you should stay to see, but I can't really tell you what happens there either because a man and a woman in the theater had a physical altercation during this time. I assume it's a set up for another Marvel Comic movie. It wasn't the best experience for me. I hope yours will be better, and you can tell me what I missed.
Next Week: The Best Man Christmas
This movie takes place after the events that occurred during The Avengers and 2 years after the events of the first Thor movie. There were mentions and nods to both, so make sure you've seen them before watching this. Basically, some dark elves from a millennia ago wanted to destroy all the light in the 9 worlds or realms by using the Aether, but these dark elves', led by Malekith, plans were foiled by Thor's predecessors. The present day aligning of the 9 worlds is a perfect time to try again. One problem is that the Aether is now in Thor's girlfriend, Jane Foster, and he has to enlist his evil and ambitious brother, Loki's help to protect her, destroy the Aether, and the dark elves. On top of that, Thor has to deal with idea of one day being king, being in love with a human when there's a perfectly good woman from his realm in front of him. I know, it's a lot. Maybe I feel asleep because the storyline was too complicated. Maybe my brain was overloaded and needed to reboot every now and then so it shut down for a minute or three.
Although my eyes were constantly a flutter, I couldn't miss the cast of supporting characters. Adebisi makes an appearance as Malekith's trusted and monstrous second in command. I haven't seen him on the screen since "OZ". Thor's mother, Frigga (Rene Russo), has crazy knife skills. Don't sleep on her because you might get cut. The comic relief was the often naked or pants-less Dr. Erik and quirky Darcy. They are a scientist and an intern who work with Jane Foster. The two brought lots of chuckles and craziness to an already busy yet dark movie.
Was the movie good? I guess, I don't know. I was sleeping. I'm sure it was entertaining, but it's long, and at some point, slow; and let's not forget that complicated storyline. I couldn't really focus on the movie with the couple next to me talking to each other, and a special needs man talking to the screen. I will say, that there is more that happens once the credits role that you should stay to see, but I can't really tell you what happens there either because a man and a woman in the theater had a physical altercation during this time. I assume it's a set up for another Marvel Comic movie. It wasn't the best experience for me. I hope yours will be better, and you can tell me what I missed.
Next Week: The Best Man Christmas
Friday, November 1, 2013
Ender's Game - Winner, Game Over!
Yet another book was adapted for the big screen. Ender's Game is an interesting science fiction action film based on the 1985 book with the same name. I haven't read this one, but I'd like to do so soon. I can see how a some parts are missing or glossed over for the sake of time. I'm sure the book is much better than the movie, as it always is, but I think this movie's take on Ender's Game was pretty good.
In short, Ender's Game is about a young boy, Ender, who was chosen to lead a group of children in a war against an alien race who tried to take over Earth 50 years ago, and are now back. His strategic prowess while playing war video games, during battle training, and against bullies makes a meek looking Ender, an incredible opponent against these formidable aliens. And since children are the best and honest at playing games, the adult command enlists a team of misfit youth to "play" along side Ender in yet another battle of Earth vs Aliens.
Asa Butterfield is the likable and lovable Ender. This young man was phenomenal! He showed incredible emotion and intelligence, and held his own next to some of our greatest actors. Harrison Ford, Viola Davis, and Ben Kingsley are some of these great actors. Harrison is Colonel Graff, the man who believes in Ender and hand picks him for the fight. Viola is Major Anderson. I assume she's a psychiatrist or physiologist who makes sure that the kids can handle the pressure of these war games. I can't tell you who Ben is without giving something away, but her helps Ender realize his full potential. Abigail Breslin is Valentine, Ender's sister and motivation. She is among the many young actors and actresses who do a fantastic job in this movie.
I enjoyed Ender's Game. It was really long at about 2 hours, but well worth it. I'm sure it could have been longer to try to get everything in the movie. I think teenagers and adults alike will get into the action in the movie. Everyone in the theater with me seemed captivated. War games usually make for a good movie, but throw in aliens, and tough kids and you have a winner! Game Over!
Next week: Thor 2
In short, Ender's Game is about a young boy, Ender, who was chosen to lead a group of children in a war against an alien race who tried to take over Earth 50 years ago, and are now back. His strategic prowess while playing war video games, during battle training, and against bullies makes a meek looking Ender, an incredible opponent against these formidable aliens. And since children are the best and honest at playing games, the adult command enlists a team of misfit youth to "play" along side Ender in yet another battle of Earth vs Aliens.
Asa Butterfield is the likable and lovable Ender. This young man was phenomenal! He showed incredible emotion and intelligence, and held his own next to some of our greatest actors. Harrison Ford, Viola Davis, and Ben Kingsley are some of these great actors. Harrison is Colonel Graff, the man who believes in Ender and hand picks him for the fight. Viola is Major Anderson. I assume she's a psychiatrist or physiologist who makes sure that the kids can handle the pressure of these war games. I can't tell you who Ben is without giving something away, but her helps Ender realize his full potential. Abigail Breslin is Valentine, Ender's sister and motivation. She is among the many young actors and actresses who do a fantastic job in this movie.
I enjoyed Ender's Game. It was really long at about 2 hours, but well worth it. I'm sure it could have been longer to try to get everything in the movie. I think teenagers and adults alike will get into the action in the movie. Everyone in the theater with me seemed captivated. War games usually make for a good movie, but throw in aliens, and tough kids and you have a winner! Game Over!
Next week: Thor 2
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