jaredkjacoby

Taking place in 1838 in Wisborg, Germany, Thomas Hutter wants to improve his financial situation for him and his wife Ellen by accepting a commission from Herr Knock who wants to sell a home in Wisborg to Count Orlok. Meanwhile, Ellen senses a vampire pursuing and haunting her constantly and she persists Hutter to not go on his journey. Hutter travels to Transylvania and he quickly realizes the monster he is dealing with while Ellen deals with more hauntings.

Nosferatu is a messed up movie and for that, it makes for an incredibly compelling horror movie. This is the kind of film that will crawl under the audience's skin. To put it lightly, it is about this horrifying vampire who plays sexually sadistic mind games on this poor girl and her husband is tricked to go help get this vampire a home nearby their home. The original movie has some scary scenes and atmosphere, but it could be cheesy at times and there is no graphic content. Here? It is a part of the story to emphasize how sadistic Count Orlok is with his torture of not just Ellen, but everyone he encounters. This is what builds the dark atmosphere of the movie of a guy who can just get in your head and dreams making life hell.

Speaking of atmosphere, Robert Eggers has done a masterful job building the atmosphere here from the very first scene to the last. This is gothic horror at its best as far as the imagery and the tension goes. There is always the feeling on Hutter's journey that something is not quite right with this strange person he is about to meet. The first time he meets Orlok is definitely one of the most intense moments in the film with the way the camera moves and how the conversation between Hutter and Orlok goes. I could feel the anxiety Hutter felt at that moment. This movie has the best and most chilling atmosphere of any horror film of the year with not a single moment to relax.

Performances in this movie are top-notch. I barely recognized anyone in this movie. The star of the movie is Lily-Rose Depp as Ellen. She captures the tortured mind of Ellen's situation perfectly and authentically even in scenes where she is going through freak outs. They are tough to watch because it looks like Depp is really going through trauma and not just acting. Depp is captivating in every scene she is in, especially her monologue at the beginning, her rant towards Friedrich and her interactions with Thomas. Her performance makes Ellen so much more likable and rootable giving her layers of depth and a passionate personality.

Nicholas Hoult as Thomas is no slouch either. Hoult retains the politeness of Thomas as well as his desire to help improve their financial situation. Hoult also represents a man who goes through so much and becomes broken throughout the film. I also like how Thomas is much more aware of the situation he puts himself in than in the 1922 movie because he recognizes that Orlok is no good right off the bat.

Speaking of Orlok, oh my god is he horrifying in this movie. He has the voice from hell, he mind controls both Ellen and Thomas to an extent, he feeds off of every human he comes across and he comes across as a sadist from the moment he speaks. Not to mention, he represents a freaking plague that haunts the town Thomas and Ellen live in! Nosferatu is the scariest horror movie villain of the year for his monstrous nature, his powers as a vampire and the realistic atrocities he commits. The vampire is made even scarier with the demonic voice from an unrecognizable Bill Skarsgård.

The supporting cast is phenomenal too. Willem Dafoe is the most recognizable role here as Professor von Franz, but he is a joy to watch and brought a little bit of levity to this dark story without taking away its impact. Aaron-Taylor Johnson is solid as Friedrich who becomes so well-done before the climax of the movie. Emma Corrin is great as Anna especially when interacting with Ellen. Ralph Ineson is solid as Dr. Shivers who is one of the nicer characters and Simon McBurney kills it as the creepy Knock. This cast is top tier and they help Nosferatu go from being a typical vampire story to a horror movie epic.

Production-wise, it looks incredible. The cinematography by Jarin Blaschke is breathtaking especially the longer takes, the composition of several scenes, the lighting and the different colors utilized to set the tone of the film. My favorite shot however is the very last one which I feel like will stick in my head for a while representing how messed up the story is here. The sets are fantastic and represent the gloomy situation for the town. The costumes look great, but it is the makeup and design for Nosferatu himself. That creature will give me nightmares just on its looks alone. I kind of expected a bit of a goofy version like the 1922 movie, but this version blew me away from design alone. Robert Eggers captures the gothic tone to this movie perfectly from the story to the visuals.

The musical score by Robin Carolan is terrific with just the opening music being stuck to my head. It captures the gothic horror tone of the movie and the sadder parts of the film. The credits theme definitely sticks out and I do want to listen to more of this music for sure.

Nosferatu is a fantastic movie, but it is not perfect. It is a little slow at first which makes some of the scenes at the beginning not as impactful, but when Hutter meets Orlok, that is when everything gets a lot more interesting. Also, I feel that the similar beats it follows from the 1922 movie make it a tad predictable. This is more of a nitpick because this is a faithful adaptation from what I can tell, but there are a couple changes I personally wanted to see.

Robert Eggers does it again with Nosferatu. This is a horror movie epic. The stakes are huge, the visuals are grand, the characters are all memorable and the villain is amazing. From the way the story is told to the way the film is shot, this movie is truly a work of art. Not only that, but I think it makes the original film better by giving it context that I may have missed. It makes the scenes where Orlok is messing with Ellen in the original even more haunting and less campy. Definitely check it out on the big screen because it is the perfect horror movie for this time of the year. Consider it the haunting after Christmas.

Sonic, Tails and Knuckles are living their best lives when suddenly a mysterious force attacks the city: Shadow the Hedgehog. The trio jump into action only to be beaten by the vengeful hedgehog. Realizing that they are no match for Shadow, Sonic and his friends seek to form an unlikely alliance with Dr. Robotnik to find a way to stop the mysterious hedgehog.

I have waited for this movie all year. I enjoyed the first two Sonic movies, I have been playing several of the recent Sonic games including the DLC level in Sonic X Shadow: Generations and the trailers filled me with so much joy. Needless to say, this was one of my most anticipated movies of the year, especially getting closer to the end. After seeing it, I have a LOT to say about this movie...

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is not only the best Sonic movie hands down, but it might just be my favorite video game movie. I adore this movie and the biggest reason is because it is easy to see that this is a movie created by people who love Sonic the Hedgehog. First of all, Director Jeff Fowler worked on the cut-scene animation for the Shadow the Hedgehog game in 2005 so he's had experience with franchise way before the movie and it shows in the films. Fowler shows how passionate he is about this franchise in every frame in this movie between the fight scenes, the dramatic scenes with Shadow and Maria and even the comedy scenes. I do not think that these movies would be as good with another director because I do not think they would be as dedicated to creating a film for Sonic fans as Fowler is.

The story is simplistic, but consistently entertaining and engaging with its fast pacing and mix of action and comedy. The movie is filled with nostalgic moments for older Sonic fans particularly fans of SA2 and Shadow the Hedgehog, but not to the point where it overshadows the story. The story is about the consequences of vengeance and how teamwork and friendship are far more important. Also, it has a message about not letting the pain you suffer turn you into someone who hurts others. It is a good message that encourages to focus on your loved ones and friends instead of vengeance will only lead to more heartbreak.

The movie is overall much darker with the themes it deals with and Shadow taking the spotlight as the antagonist, but it is still a very funny movie. There are a lot of lines of dialogue and comedic moments that cracked me up, particularly the Detective Pikachu reference and an excellent fourth wall break with Jim Carrey as Ivo and Gerald Robotnik.

However, it does lead to my one main issue with this movie and that some scenes are poorly timed, particularly in the third act. There is nothing wrong with having a few funny moments with Carrey in both roles, but that was the time he needed to get serious and he doesn't really do it aside from one scene. It makes the comedic scenes in the third act miss the mark to a degree. Do not get me wrong, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is still an overall really funny movie, but the humor needed to dial back so the darker tone could thrive.

Visually, the movie is at its best of the three films. The special effects are a lot more polished here than in the last film, the cinematography by Brandon Trost is surprisingly solid with plenty of color and a couple tracking shots, the sets look great and the designs of the Sonic and his friends look amazing. Shadow in particular looks awesome in this film with how clean his design is.

The action in this movie is epic. The sequences utilize the abilities of the Sonic characters and even reference Shadow the Hedgehog with the amazing motorcycle chase. That particular chase is mind blowing with its speed and the way it captures Sonic's speed and Shadow's abilities. The editing is clear and the way it is shot allows us to sit back and enjoy the action without any confusion. The climax has several fight scenes and without getting into spoilers, they keep up with the fast energy in the best possible way. This movie goes all out in every set piece making the action a thrill to watch, especially on the big screen.

I have a lot to say about the cast so this will be split in multiple paragraphs:

Of the three movies, Sonic is at his best in this movie with both his personality and Ben Schwartz' performance. Sonic is still a lovable goofball who loves to crack jokes and hang out with his friends, but the movie shows an angrier side of Sonic and it is as awesome as it is heartbreaking to watch. This movie shows that it is not wise to anger someone who seems as chill as Sonic to a certain point.

With that, Ben Schwartz is at his best here as Sonic fully capturing his free-spirited nature and anger in the climax to the point where Sonic started to come off as intimidating. A certain fight with Shadow is where Schwartz really shines to the point where he locked in. I genuinely do not think he gets enough credit with how good he is in the Sonic movies. Schwartz fits Sonic's personality perfectly, he reminds me a bit of Jason Griffith and he locks in when it is time to get serious. He does a terrific job as the title character and is a big reason why these movies are so enjoyable.

Shadow the Hedgehog is great here too as the antagonist driven by anger and vengeance. Shadow is so badass in this movie in every scene he is in from the opening scene where he beats down all of the guards to the epic chase scene with him and Sonic in the first act. Heck, even when he is losing a fight he still comes off as cool! Keanu Reeves captures Shadow very well with his speech and stoic, yet tranquil rage attitude. He also delivers a fantastic rant towards Sonic in a fight in the third act that hits hard. Every moment that Shadow is on screen, he steals the show.

I was worried that Tails and Knuckles were gonna get sidelined in this movie, but they are just as much of a part of the adventure as Sonic here. Tails' wit and brains are put on full display here as well as his friendly nature even when talking with an enemy making him an adorable character to root for while being just as capable as Sonic and Knuckles. Knuckles is just as strong as ever coming in clutch at points, but he has also grown considerably from the last film and from the Knuckles TV series. He is more mature and even has moments where Knuckles tries to talk sense to Sonic when the ladder gets too reckless. Colleen O'Shaughnessey delivers a lovable performance as Tails and Idris Elba is as awesome as ever as Knuckles in both the comedic and dramatic scenes.

Then there is Jim Carrey as Dr. Ivo Robotnik and Gerald Robotnik. Carrey does a good job in both roles and it is clear that despite not playing in a lot of movies nowadays, he loves playing as these characters and throws everything he has here. Carrey is very entertaining to watch and a lot of the scenes with the Robotniks are highlights. Like I said earlier, I do think he should have gotten more serious in the climax not just because of the stakes, but also because Gerald Robotnik is a much more serious character than Ivo in the games. This could have been Carrey's chance to show off his dramatic chops as Gerald, but he sticks with a more humorous approach and I feel it is a missed opportunity. However, he does give a great speech as Ivo which is the one time I felt bad for Robotnik in these films.

As for the supporting characters, Tom and Maddie played by James Marsden and Tika Sumpter are very enjoyable here as they get their fair share of moments to shine. I really like how much they enjoy Sonic and his friends' company and how the couple show zero hesitation to help them when they need it. I feel that Marsden and Sumpter are having a lot more fun in these movies too with each installment. Lee Majdoub as Agent Stone is just as fun as ever and I like how loyal he is to Robotnik no matter what. Krysten Ritter as Director Rockwell is kind of there and does stand out compared to anyone else.

The standout though is Alyla Browne as Maria. In this movie, we get to see Maria and Shadow bond before tragedy strikes and they are some of the most heartwarming scenes in a film. Alyla Browne brings so much joy in her scenes with Shadow which makes what happens more heartbreaking.

The cast is fantastic because everyone here is committed to making a great movie for Sonic fans to enjoy. There is a reason why almost every character in these films are liked by fans or at least have supporters for the more divisive ones.

As for the soundtrack, the score by Tom Holkenberg is great with many memorable musical pieces, but the one that stands out is his version of Live and Learn. It is an excellent piece of music that I think is a bit too short, but hearing in theaters was a joy.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is not perfect. It has a few moments of cringeworthy or poorly timed humor and a few missed opportunities. That being said, there are not a lot of movies I thoroughly enjoyed watching more than this film. I rarely get the feeling of watching a movie from a franchise I truly love anymore that hypes me up throughout the runtime, but this movie did it for me. This one of the most enjoyable theater experiences I've had of the year and it is also fun seeing kids and adults enjoy this movie equally. Director Jeff Fowler has done a great making a trilogy of Sonic movies that wins the hearts of Sonic fans while standing their own as solid action movies for families. If you are a Sonic fan, this is a must see and even if you are not, I still think you would enjoy this movie. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has something for everyone to enjoy.

And of course, stay through all of the credits.

Elphaba Thropp is mysteriously born with green skin and shunned by everyone including her parents. She attends Shiz University where she is roommates with the popular and insensitive Galinda who she learns to bond with. Elphaba also catches the eye of Madame Morrible and makes Elphaba her magic apprentice promising her the chance to work with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz. While things look up for the young woman with magical powers, Animal citizens are having their rights stripped from them encouraging Elphaba to find a way to help them with Galinda joining her.

Wicked serves as a prequel to The Wizard of Oz and the cinematic version is split into two parts. I'm not familiar with this story so this movie is my first experience with the story of Wicked.

Okay, I have a lot to say about Wicked: Part One. First of all, this is a fantastic movie that tells a very intriguing story of Oz before Dorothy dropped by. There is so much to unpack here, but the movie never feels jumbled because the pacing is smooth and fluid. Despite clocking in at over two and a half hours, the story never feels like it is dragging as there is something interesting in just about every scene.

The themes here include the consequences of racism with how Elphaba and the animals are treated, not all parents are loving, how popularity is not everything and how a person's image can cloud judgement. There is so much to unpack and it comes down to how the dreams and hopes one person have may not be as rosy and magical as they seem. Sometimes, people will always judge you just because you look a certain way and that pressure can stop one from doing the right thing. For a seemingly colorful and upbeat musical, there are some pretty heavy moments in this movie and they all hit hard. The scenes with Elphaba and Dr. Dillamond are memorably touching to me.

All of the heavy themes aside, Wicked is a somewhat dark, but optimistic film. This is a movie that demonstrates that there is bad in the world, but there is good and that we should fight for it. The script also encourages the viewer to put aside their ego to help someone who does not fit in out. It shows in how Galinda tries her best to help Elphaba become more accepted and liked by the public in her way, but even if some of her actions are a bit insensitive, Galinda has her heart in the right place. There is a lot of comedy in this movie and it is overall very funny. The humor got several laughs out of me between Galinda's antics and Elphaba's wit. This movie is overall a lot funnier than I thought it would be. The script is overall great in pacing, storytelling and themes.

The musical numbers are dazzling. They are filmed with such high energy and lively choreography that I could not help but get the feeling of wanting to tap my foot. I especially love "Popular" with how adorably well intentioned Galinda is, "Dancing Through Life" with the awesome dancing, cinematography throughout the number and the fun nature of Fiyero and "One Short Day" for being such a fun introduction song to Emerald City. I like just about everything musical number and song, but those three are my favorites. The singing is captivating, the dancing is lively and these numbers tell the story or more about characters in a compelling way.

To me, the biggest surprise in this movie is how good Ariana Grande is as Galinda Upland. When I saw that Ariana Grande was Galinda, I did not have high expectations for her acting, but she delivers an amazing performance combining comedy, drama and sadness. Grande captures Galinda's privileged status and attitude perfectly while demonstrating her emotional moments beautifully, especially the scenesat the party where she dances with Elphaba and in another scene where she realizes the man she loves may not feel the same way about her. She is also hilarious with her comedic timing and line delivery. As a popstar, Grande handles the musical scenes like a champ and she has one of my favorite songs in the film "Popular," which helps show Galinda's good intentions underneath the egotistical persona. Grande's fantastic performance helps make Galinda more sympathetic and likable and it showed me that I really underestimated her acting capabilities.

Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba Thropp is just as much of a show stealer though. Erivo captures the innocence of the young apprentice, her sarcasm towards the people who shun her and her eventual rage when finding out the truth perfectly. Erivo also highlights the rebellious side of Elphaba which makes her such a rootable character. Seriously, the whole movie I was firmly on Elphaba's side no matter what. That is not even mentioning how awesome Erivo pulls off her musical numbers, especially the powerful "Defying Gravity," which is the moment she goes all in. Erivo is excellent in this movie and she helps shape Elphaba into a wonderful character with so much depth.

Erivo and Grande are utterly charming with their chemistry. One could tell from a simple ad that the two women love hanging out with each other and the movie highlights their bond. Their banter and bonding moments are infectious to watch. It helps make the bond between the two very different personalities more believable and compelling.

As for the supporting cast, we have Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible who is another standout with how charismatic she comes across and how ruthless she becomes. Yeoh is so much fun to watch every scene she is in. Jeff Goldblum is delightful as the wizard while showing a dark side to his character underneath the charm. Peter Dinklage as Dr. Dillamond has a great supporting role as a mistreated professor who bonds with Elphaba. I knew his voice was familiar, but my jaw dropped when I found out Dinklage voiced this kindhearted professor with such genuine emotion.

Jonathan Bailey is very fun as Fiyero and he has another one of my favorite musical numbers in the film, "Dancing Through the Light." Marissa Bode as Nessarode Thropp is great especially during the party scene where she dances with Boq played by Ethan Slater. Bode looks like the light in her eyes beam during that fun scene. The rest of the cast is excellent and every character has a role to play without feeling wasted. This is one of the best and most diverse casts in a movie of the year and I am glad nobody feels wasted or misused here.

Production-wise, it's a bit mixed. The set designs are incredible feeling grand and magical while fitting the world of Oz very well, especially Emerald City and the underwater cave where the party takes place. The costumes and makeup are awesome and they fit the setting perfectly while making some actors unrecognizable. There are a lot of CGI effects, especially with the animals, but they look pretty good and expressive overall. The cinematography by Alice Brooks is pretty solid with some great composition shots and terrific choreography of the musical numbers. Where I think the movie falters is with the lighting. There are a lot of scenes with elaborate sets and pretty colors that clashes with this bright light that saturates the scenery. It is not in every scene, but it is noticeable and the bright lighting makes the cinematography and colors look worse than they really are. If the lighting was not so bright in some scenes, the movie could look visually stunning because it does just about everything else very well on a production level.

While it is not perfect, Wicked: Part One is a fantastic musical that I think both newcomers and fans of Oz will enjoy. It is so energetic and fun to watch that it is hard to not enjoy at least a little bit. The soundtrack is stellar and the songs are pulled off perfectly. This is a movie that could make people laugh, cry and feel a lot of other emotions throughout the film. Jon M. Chu did a really good job bringing the world of Oz before Dorothy to life. I cannot wait for the second part and I hope that it is even better than this film.