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Bob Marley (Kingsley Ben-Adir) spoke with such grace and mellowness through his songs that exploring how he came to be left me curious on what he had gone through in life in his native country of Jamaica. Despite living during a war-driven time in the 1970s, Marley's music is what really turned the mood around.

He sure wanted to prove himself that his music is very influential and upon sharing it with the world by traveling into one country after another helped spread the message about peace and love. From what he described about his music. He doesn't write them to make big money or garner music deals with any studio. Instead, here we see him as a mellow individual who doesn't let aggression get the better of him. For example, when a thief broke into his house and even shot him. This same thief would visit his house many years later seeking forgiveness of his actions. Marley's words were (and to paraphrase) "a man can only forgive himself if he truly seeks redemption."

What also caught my attention was this film was produced by Bob's widow Rita and oldest son Ziggy Marley. It's been said in the past that Ziggy was outspoken about big name studios wanting to adapt his late father's life into a movie. He wouldn't let anyone get near it without his approval and the casting of newcomer Kingsley Ben-Adir as his choice was definitely worthwhile. An uncanny resemblance. So they brought him onboard to oversee production and for it to be helmed by Academy Award-nominated director Reinaldo Marcus Green (who gave us King Richard), he helped bring the reggae musician to life.

I enjoyed it.

Since 2019 featured the pilot episode on YouTube, Hazbin Hotel proved there's potential in what the series can bring with its dark, yet comical premise. Along with the musical numbers it also provides. When it finally premiered at long last as a full-fledged series on Amazon Prime, it was EXACTLY as I expected it to be courtesy of creator Vivienne Medrano. Now some will criticize and nitpick over calling this "filth," "vile," "disturbing," or "inappropriate." But that's kind of the point.

The story goes. The Princess of Hell Charlie Morningstar opts to open a hotel to rehabilitate the damned. However, many are harshly skeptical over such an idea can even happen in Hell that it becomes Charlie's mission to prove them wrong that her business can work and with the help of her closest confidante Vaggie along with a few other very questionable allies right by her side. She goes through all kinds of great lengths to make it a reality and succeed.

While I was easily reminded of series Invader Zim with its character designs and setting (Medrano did cite Zim creator Jhonen Vasquez as influence to her work), it's the Animaniacs-like musical sequences that are either joyful, sympathetic, or at times troubling combined with adult-oriented humor similar to South Park that really makes quite a mix. While the premise isn't all that difficult to understand, it's the world-building that really stands out. And the voice cast? The pilot had an interesting set, but when it was given the green light to be made as a full series. Recasting occurred. Nevertheless, it didn't really bother me much as the new cast of voices made the characters sound more appealing and succeed their predecessors well. In the case of Charlie's voice being done by Broadway musical star Erika Henningsen, Stephanie Beatriz as Vaggie, Keith David as Husk, and Blake Roman as Angel Dust? They are very notable and I applaud their speaking/singing performances.

Like its sister show Helluva Boss, which takes place in the same universe, Hazbin has its share of unique characters both sinners and local inhabitants that despite having miserable dispositions in this world they currently reside in, they seem to have an ounce of morals that still reside within even when they don't want to show it. And some naysayers will go on to say if you watch this, you think Hell looks pleasant to be in and dismiss it that it "goes against personal beliefs" or "nowhere accurate as in their scriptures." It's satire. Not meant to be taken seriously in that field at all. There's more to explore in this world.

It may be Hell, but can it sell? I sure think so.

So where do I begin? Illumination Entertainment sure has an impressive array of animated films they've released since Despicable Me in 2010 and most recently The Super Mario Bros Movie in 2023. With each film in their library, Migration turns out to be a change of pace from the usual narrative they normally go with. Yes, it's comedic and the humor is pretty similar to their past works, but this focuses more on the dynamics of family unity and embracing the perils that follow rather than the typical slapstick alone.

Meet Mack (Kumil Nanjiani) and his mallard duck family as they've never ventured before outside their own pond. When they meet traveling ducks that land in their pond, his family is inspired to venture out for themselves. Being the worrisome dad he is, Mack reluctantly accepts by bringing his wife Pam (Elizabeth Banks), two kids Dax and Gwen, and their curmudgeon uncle Dan (Danny Devito) along for the ride to Jamaica. But they'll have to get there with the help of new friends and evade the wrath of a cruel iron chef along the way.

While this entire movie makes for a great slapstick comedy in its own way, it's not without many similarities in concept, scenarios, and personalities in the characters. I mean, take the 2011 animated film Rio by Blue Sky Studios. You've got the lead bird who is neurotic and easily fears for his safety and his female companion who is sporty and confident. Mack and Pam are sure no different from blue macaws Blu and Jewel respectively. Likewise them traveling to a different environment outside their current home while being pursued by someone willing to do harm to them during their travels. Yeah. Pretty spot-on. Then again, both the Rio films and Migration do have the involvement of music composer John Powell and former Blue Sky animator-turned-Illumination producer Chris Meledandri, so there's these ties as well.

Voice talents gave exceptional performances. Eternals star Kumil Nanjiani as Mack and Elizabeth Banks as his wife Pam really bounced off each other with their humor. Likewise scene-stealer Awkwafina as pigeon Chump and Jamaican Scarlet macaw Delroy voiced by Keegan-Michael Key. He can pull off a Jamaican accent so well. And of course the kids. Newcomers Caspar Jennings and Tresi Gazal as Dax and Gwen respectively are also likable with their constant squabbling. One tries to act big, the other can be fearful and wisecracks with her British accent.

There were some scenes being too intense for the most littler ones, very few kids in our local theater were either covering their eyes or had to walk out about to cry. Can't really blame them. But overall, Migration is splendid fun for families for its impressive visuals in both the rural and urban terrain, quirky characters, and non-stop laughs that go near-throughout. I also noticed one little detail that since all the bird characters speak, while any human characters remain mute. It's based on how we perceive any animal that only makes animal sounds, while they can only comprehend each other.

And the preceding Despicable Me-related short film titled "Mooned" serves as a sample of what humor awaits. I recommend it for families wanting to have a good laugh along with their kids. It could be all that it's quacked up to be. Heh.

From the mind of Hayao Miyazaki and the Studio Ghibli team comes an intriguing tale of self-discovery and acceptance. It tells the story of an indifferent boy named Mahito, during the hard times of World War II in 1943. The loss of his mother really traumatized him to the point he wants nothing to do with his father's remarriage to another woman. However, he soon discovers a mysterious grey heron who seems to guide him through things in life that something fantasy could be at work. But can looks be deceiving? Mahito has yet to find out the true nature of it all.

I must say I've seen many of Studio Ghibli's films. Whether it was the fantasy nature of Kiki's Delivery Service, Spirited Away, and Totoro to the touching Grave of the Fireflies and The Wind Rises. All of which are Ghibli classics I've seen over the years. Because I viewed the English dub in theaters, the voice cast which includes the talents of Robert Pattinson, Christian Bale, Mark Hamill, Willem Dafoe, and Dave Bautista. They really brought out their performances in the most skillful of ways. Newcomer Luca Padovan is also notable in voicing the troubled Mahito. His interaction with several of these characters is also noteworthy in help keeping the story going. I didn't even think for a minute when I found out that was Pattinson as the Heron. Sounded nothing like himself! Sure shocked me in that gravelly, raspy voice!

Since I've also seen fellow anime filmmaker Makoto Shinkai's latest flick "Suzume" this year, it's going to be a tough one for awards season! Shinkai's film may be worlds apart from Miyazaki's own movie, but I see the themes of grief playing in both of them. Among all the dazzling visuals and distinguishable characters that you feel for at times in either of these titles, it's the one thing that makes them matter: the story. (Miyazaki VS Shinkai. Ooh.)

I applaud maestro Miyazaki and his crew for capturing my attention with this movie and without a doubt, it's definitely awards worthy with his direction and the music of his longtime composer Joe Hisaishi. It's a feeling that can be both beautifully expressed through joy and sorrow. Despite getting lost in some parts of the movie that were difficult to comprehend involving Mahito's mission when venturing into another world, "The Boy and the Heron" is an impressive piece that I think has that panache that's as easily recognizable as his past works.

To begin my review, I was so eager to see Walt Disney Animation Studios' latest animated flick Wish. Unlike the past animated films in their library that I was so excited for, this one is different as it celebrates the centennial anniversary of the studio as a whole! I've heard about the mixed and average reviews that have plagued this movie and I say that it didn't change my views about it in the least. The CG animation style and quality are completely different compared to their previous CGI films since it's resembling the techniques used in films Into the Spider-Verse and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, but it had quite a story that I was already left fascinated by about the theory of wishes being used by other means.

The story goes about Princess Asha, a 17-year-old girl with hopes and dreams in the Kingdom of Rosas of becoming an apprentice to its ruler King Magnifico. Once a year, he gathers people's wishes and makes one of them come true for one lucky individual. However, she soon realizes that with every wish he collects, he sees them merely as ideas and only grants ones he finds useful. With this knowledge, Asha and her friends sought to set things right for them and their home.

The voice talents of Academy Award-winner Ariana DeBose and costar Chris Pine gave wonderful performances in both speaking and song as the lead heroine and villain respectively. King Magnifico is best described as a combination of past Disney villain tropes such as the narcissism of Gaston, the power mad demeanor of Jafar, and Doctor Facilier's trickster charisma. I was already mesmerized by Asha's breathtaking song "This Wish" and "Knowing What I Know Now" the moment she began to sing alongside her friends. The former being a beautiful anthem that encompasses her cause.

There are several references and easter eggs to Disney's animated classics thrown all around in this movie. One notable example being Snow White as the most obvious and raises the question on a theory about this movie and past Disney animated films being in the same universe. While these excerpts all play well for nostalgia, others claiming that it's "no substitute for proper storytelling," or is a "cut-and-paste" of Disney tropes and elements. I saw the contrary in it as it seems to serve as a culmination of what has transpired over the years for the studio. As for the theory I mentioned earlier. It had me thinking that since Magnifico takes his subjects wishes and keeps them for himself by not granting any of them fearing they would overrun his kingdom, it doesn't necessarily mean their hopes and dreams should be seen as bad.

And I have to mention voice actor Alan Tudyk, who voices Asha's goat companion Valentino. Ever since Wreck-It Ralph in 2012, he essentially became Disney's good luck charm as Pixar once had with John Ratzenberger. He really proved to be a standout when Valentino suddenly gains the ability to speak. There's potential in Wish to get any recognition during awards season judging by the impressive visuals and breathtaking songs used here. The entire movie and studio itself are hardly perfect given its ups and downs for decades (notably the 2020s has history repeating itself for Disney since the 2000s), but I say there's plenty of magic left in there. In this case, the songs are the redeeming quality for it. And it shows there's still that small glimmer of hope. I think it should be given a chance as Wish definitely deserves better praise. I have no regrets in watching it.

Moral: It's in everyone's nature to pursue what they believe in, but what's also important is being true to themselves.

What I think best describes "The Tunnel to Summer, The Exit of Goodbyes" is it's undeniably proven that it can succeed as one of the anime film greats before it. Based on the light novel by Mei Hachimoku and adapted into film by Tomohisa Taguchi, I was already curious over what this would be about. After viewing the remarkable fantasy, sci-fi drama Suzume by Makoto Shinkai, I started to see elements of it somewhat similar to that movie in this one in terms of grief and acceptance. But of the few notable differences here is instead of a door, it's a tunnel. Likewise the budding romance in this film is shown to be focused on more than what Suzume had.

Set in the year 2005, the plot focuses on high school student Kaoru Touno as he lives a mundane life with an alcoholic father and all things simple. That changes completely when he meets troubled girl Anzu Hanashiro at the local train station in his little town outside Tokyo, who is indifferent towards anyone around her. When she becomes a new student in his class, he and her slowly start to hit it off when they both discover the mysterious Urashima Tunnel that is said to grant wishes on whomever enters it.

Visually, it's something to ponder over when seeing these characters walk right into a void that can be difficult to comprehend to hold your imagination. Emotionally however, it brought out something meaningful that they've likely missed in their lives. For Kaoru, he misses a deceased loved one, while Anzu fears her dreams of becoming a professional manga artist won't be good enough to share with the public. With each passing day of the two venturing into this tunnel, they suddenly start growing closer that their feelings begin to show how much they really care about each other rather than fulfilling desires alone. While the anime tropes of the male protagonist tends to be simple, impulsive and anxious. Likewise for the female protagonist who is determined and rational. It's all woven differently to create a new story.

To me, the tunnel itself serves as a metaphor for "acceptance" as anyone who enters it would also see things that mattered in their lives and how to cope over what once transpired or will transpire. My one nitpick over this entire movie is that it rushed on the character development to build on the climactic ending due to the realization that the longer they stay in the tunnel, time moves faster outside of it. I think more could've been told if given more time to flesh out everything. But overall, I commend Taguchi's direction and I think this has become a hidden gem in this ever-growing library of anime films. As someone who's into fantasy, sci-fi drama fare with a decent story, it's definitely worth checking out.

Before I begin this review, I'd like to say that to commemorate what Disney had set back in 1923 to 100 years later, it's become quite impactful in the years that followed. The studio is no stranger to crossovers, but unlike other films they've done in the past with it, there was so much love placed into this short project. From a personal level, the kid in me showed nothing but excitement and admiration. Normally, I don't do reviews involving short films, so this'll be my first.

Once Upon A Studio's entire 9-minute story showcases Disney characters from all animated films of the studio's canon (either classic, near-forgotten, or underrated) literally leaping out of the confines of their illustrations and still frames by gathering when the studio is closed for the day, but not without a few pratfalls and setbacks along the way as they navigate through the Roy E. Disney Animation building helping each other and meeting up together in the lobby for a group photo.

With countless references to those animated flicks, notable animators of yesteryear and present, and many significant others that contributed to this very studio, it's the combination of traditional hand-drawn animated characters crossing over to meet CG characters in a live-action environment something I felt to be a blend of past meets present as well. Bundling 543 animated characters from Walt's lifetime to the modern day into one short must have been quite the challenge for veteran animator Eric Goldberg and his crew. I mean, 2D, 3D, AND live-action in one? It's so fluid! Several voice actors came back to reprise their roles (including the use of archival audio recordings for those who are no longer with us), especially a fitting tribute to the late Robin Williams as his Aladdin character Genie interacting with Josh Gad's Olaf. There was plenty to say about it that words can't even describe how much this has touched my heart. But Mickey reminiscing over his creator Walt as he stares at his portrait in the hallway amid the crossover chaos really brought a tear to my eye, especially the ending.

Animator Burny Mattinson's dedication at the closing credits was also notable being the longest serving employee at the studio since 1953. It's also a heartwarming feeling seeing and hearing Disney heroes and villains we've gotten to know growing up, putting aside their differences for this 100th anniversary celebration! This short defines what any of us have experienced as kids growing up in anything Disney and I've had quite a childhood myself with it. When you look back at any one of these characters you recognize, it makes you reminisce over how they might have shaped your childhoods and into adulthood. Granted, the studio itself is not perfect as they've had their share of ups and downs for decades to the present, but none of it would've all been possible without one man with a dream and a mouse: Walt Disney.

He would've loved it.

What I found intriguing about "A Million Miles Away" is the casting of funny guy Michael Peña in the role of real-life astronaut Jose Hernandez in this biopic drama.

The story of growing up from parents who were living in poverty as migrant workers in California, by making a living working in the agricultural fields picking grapes. Finding inspiration to move on from this life, Jose succeeds in graduating college with a degree in engineering and dreams of one day becoming part of the NASA Space Program. Through all the sacrifices and rejections he faced for years, he learns more about the value of not taking life for granted.

Michael Peña sure has range in taking on roles that could either be funny or more serious. While I would always know him for his humorous Marvel character, his performance in this movie is the total opposite and admirable at best. Director Alejandra Marquez Abella sure captured the human and natural side of what American rural life is like and how one Mexican-American man who was always ignored by his peers in school or work strived to be someone other than just being a presence no one pays much attention to.

What caught my attention even more was when he met NASA trainer Kalpana Chawla during his strenuous run with the Space Program, not knowing that his one conversation with her would be his last as she is one of the astronauts of the doomed Space Shuttle Columbia in 2003. That tragedy affected Hernandez greatly that it only influenced him to excel further in his training. It seems the monarch butterfly he imagines at times serves as symbolism into achieving ones destiny. Can be rather educational as well. I applaud the cast and crew for making such an amazing story brought to life onscreen! Looks to be awards worthy judging by Peña's wonderful and believable performance as well as a tale over how Hernandez made a big difference for himself even with the odds running against him. A big thumbs up!

While I can go on forever regarding the 2003 Haunted Mansion's flaws and what the 2023 reboot explored much differently, I'd just like to say the themes in the latter are what makes it stand out the most and strays completely away from the campy feel of its predecessor. The themes of grief and loss were featured more prominently than it just being treated as a silly supernatural adventure. After going on the actual theme park ride for many years at both Disney theme parks in America with friends and family, there's a story in this film worth telling that I can't seem to dislike.

So an astrophysicist named Ben Matthias invented a camera that can "see the unseen" and at the same time meets the love of his life in ghost tour guide Alyssa. They marry, but sadly she passes away sometime later on in life. Still grieving over the loss of his wife, Ben finds an opportunity in helping out a single mother and her young son who've moved into Gracey Manor to fend off spirits led by a mysterious specter known as the Hatbox Ghost haunting the place. Realizing they can't do this alone, they enlist more people who might be able to help.

The studio can get as many familiar names to star in the film, so that makes the character dynamics feel more enjoyable as each one is a type that can be relatable to anyone when you put yourself in their shoes. You've got the grieving widower, the single mother and child, a dubious priest, a wisecracking psychic, and a local historian coming together to solve the mystery over what happened in that very mansion. While the movie is not a sequel or connected in any way story-wise to the 2003 film, it's hard for me to find anything to hate about it. The easter eggs, references, and cameos are also a nice touch. You can go and spot several references to the original ride in various places of the film, but the cameos of a few celebs playing minor roles (like Jo Koy, Dan Levy, and Winona Ryder) is also notable for humor.

Given its PG-13 rating as opposed to the original's PG rating, it delves much deeper into character development with grief and loss in their lives rather than a workaholic father who can't put his job aside to enjoy a vacation with family. Director Justin Simien sure brought out a fresh new take on this beloved Disney theme park attraction. If you throw in Laurie Strode, Philoctetes/Phil, Lightning McQueen, and Tiffany Haddish into the mix. I was already fully onboard over what awaits. I was at the edge of my seat either fretting for their lives, laughing at several moments where the characters bounce off each other, felt sympathetic towards some of them, or just left intrigued over what they uncover along the way in this ominous atmosphere they've gotten themselves into. It's a fun ride.

I have heard about this movie's story since dating back to 2014 when it was among the listed proposed projects yet to be produced by Blue Sky Studios. The film's stars which include the voice talents of Chloe Grace Moretz (Kick-Ass) and Riz Ahmed (Jason Bourne, Venom) did quite a phenomenal job as the lead roles.

This is quite a story to tell. Set in a medieval-futuristic era, it tells the story of Ballister Boldheart who would be the first known commoner to be knighted by the city's Queen Valerin. However, when the queen is mysteriously murdered and Ballister being framed for the crime, he goes on the run where he meets sarcastic shapeshifter named Nimona. She volunteers willingly to be his sidekick as they set off to help clear his name and find the true culprit.

When Blue Sky shut down in 2021, it was disheartening to hear this movie got canceled alongside other potential animated films the studio would've concentrated on next. But then Netflix and Annapurna picked it up and made it become their own, I say they did Blue Sky proudly by help finishing the movie that couldn't see the light of day. The animation quality does resemble that of what Into the Spider-Verse has done (which seems to be a trend nowadays for a few animated films since then), while the story itself hits rather deep. Given the LGBTQ+ themes, there's also prejudice that plays a role in this movie's story. The futuristic setting does represent our society's reliance on advanced technology, while the medieval aesthetic represents our backwards thinking on how we perceive things in the world, thus leading to outdated beliefs and said prejudice. While Nimona can be a hard-hitting, sarcastic, shape-shifting teen. If you put aside all that feisty energy, her story can be quite sympathetic. Chloe Moretz sure gave a touching performance by channeling the emotions of Nimona wanting to be accepted for who she is.

Original author Nate Stevenson sure introduced us into a world beyond our own imagination and I applaud how the work of the author and the craftsmanship of the filmmakers came together to weave a touching tale of how two individuals are more than willing to overcome the injustices in their society.

To start things off, Elemental is a heartfelt movie that parallels the trials and tribulations of pursuing one's passion. While it's no easy feat to transition to a place that's completely different from your original hometown with all of its traditions and beliefs, moving into a new city that is much more diverse and expressive can become more of an opportunity if you know the right people. The one thing that remains are moral values. Director Peter Sohn sure made a movie that was greatly inspired from his parents moving all the way to America from Korea before he was even born. Although Sohn was born and raised in the states, it was his parents who showed him to also not lose sight of his heritage and family traditions.

Now the plot tells the story of the Lumens, a husband and wife who traveled from the fire lands to start a new life in the multi-diverse, Element City. Which is entirely inhabited by the four basic elements that are earth, air, fire, and water. The Lumens set up shop in one district and eventually give birth to a daughter named Ember, who dreams of one day running her family's business. However, upon meeting a water-based resident named Wade, Ember's views greatly shift into something she might be truly missing in her life.

Compared to past Pixar films, I think Elemental is uniquely different for the studio that combines thematic material, romantic elements, and prejudicial themes woven into one. Newcomers Leah Lewis and Mamoudou Athie as the lead roles Ember and Wade respectively did a splendid job when their characters are thrown into conflict over what really matters. I commend them for giving such believable performances and that they have this chemistry that is a science physically and emotionally. While the character designs and quirks are reminiscent to the emotions of Inside Out, it's the setting and discriminatory nature of these characters that mirror Zootopia.

Peter Sohn took it a step forward with this movie compared to his directorial debut called The Good Dinosaur. Unlike that movie, where it went with the theory of dinosaurs having not gone extinct and evolved more than humans, I loved the personal touches he gave in Elemental that reflect his own upbringing and meeting someone to love in the process. Quite frankly, I don't really care what others say about this movie being "by the numbers" or "not being at high standards" as older Pixar classics or any recent animated hits of theirs. Kids will love it for the humor and whimsical nature of these elemental characters, while adults would find the intense situations relatable to them in terms of acceptance and being true to themselves. I enjoyed it for the experience that can be very real in anyone's lives. Pixar still got it.

With new director Steven Caple Jr. In charge of the latest installment of the live-action Transformers films, this movie is yet another new take on what has since been needed after the Michael Bay-directed films and Travis Knight's spinoff prequel Bumblebee. Following off his success with Creed II, Caple Jr. Proved he can take on an action-adventure film with Anthony Ramos taking over as new lead character Noah Diaz left behind in the likes of Shia LaBeouf's Sam Witwicky and Hailee Steinfeld's Charlie Watson.

Like 2018's Bumblebee which took place in 1987 Los Angeles, Rise of the Beasts serves as yet another prequel film now set in 1994 New York City during a time when several Autobots were already making themselves at home on Earth. At the same time, their allies known as the Maximals - who have been underground for years - come out of their hiding places when a threat catches theirs and the Autobots' attention.

With the return of voice acting great Peter Cullen as Autobot leader Optimus Prime, other additions to the voice cast like Ron Perlman as Optimus Primal, Peter Dinklage as the villainous Scourge, Michelle Yeoh as Airazor, and Pete Davidson as Mirage are an odd mix to be thrown into this universe. Anthony Ramos' character Noah who is ex-military, yet tech-savvy in his profession, proved to be quite the new addition in human characters. It's now his turn to be thrown into the conflict amongst alien robots. The locations featured in the movie are also quite an eyeful. The terrain of Peru's landscape is a wonderful view of where these Maximals reside.

Like the past installments before it, this movie has the typical displays of metal-clanging, alien robot fights with destruction left in their wake as we've seen as the highlights of the movies (with occasional humor), there's also a sense of humanity and a story that's not convoluted like the appalling Age of Extinction or The Last Knight. No. Instead, there's a story that you can easily comprehend without having to overthink it so much. Something not looked upon often. However, like Bumblebee, I say Rise of the Beasts is redemption for the film franchise. Like it teeters between the original 2007 film and Dark of the Moon. It might not be perfect and that some are said and done with anything Transformers. I still liked it for the experience of it all.

Marking now the seventh anime film by renowned filmmaker Makoto Shinkai, I had to check out Suzume on opening weekend here in America. As always, I have plenty to say in regards to the animation, the visual setting, wonderful music, and the fantasy imagery used as the one to help keep this remarkable Shinkai story going.

Story centers around 17-year-old teen Suzume Iwato, who one day catches a young man named Souta wandering on the road by himself while on her way to school. Things turn intense when she discovers that he ventured to many parts of Japan searching for certain doors to close or chaos would ensue if left open. When Suzume discovers one of these doors along with a mischievous white cat, it sets a path where she must journey to various places she might not be ready for.

While the animation is very beautiful as per usual of Shinkai's past hits like Your Name and Weathering with You, Suzume is nowhere the same as them story or concept-wise. Rather, it focuses on the themes of loss, coping for a deceased loved one, and how to overcome this grief by opening a door. I managed to catch the film in both its original Japanese audio track and the English dub. I have to say neither of them is better than the other and that the respective voice actors of both languages delivered great performances. The latter is interesting as NBC's Superstore star Nichole Sakura did a fine job voicing the lead heroine. Likewise for her fellow English dub costar Joshua Keaton (of Disney's Hercules) as Souta. What kept me intrigued was Suzume's journey with Souta as they travel together around Japan's countryside and city searching for these doors and that the accompanying music of rock band Radwimps (third collaboration now with Shinkai) makes it feel more engaging and lively. Perhaps the doors serve as a metaphor to either opening the possibilities of changing one's outlook on life or the dreaded Pandora's Box.

Overall, it's really hard to find anything to dislike about this 2-hour film. Not sure what some skeptics are talking about. I loved every minute of it and I expected nothing less from Makoto Shinkai. The fate of Japan rests on a teenage girl and a chair. I also found it curious that adding real-life events involving natural disasters (like one from 2011) invokes a ripple effect. What do I mean by that? The chair has a significant connection to the story and how it takes part in the factual events as well as the fictional. Once again, I applaud Shinkai as he really delivered with this newest fantasy drama. Not disappointed in the slightest. It had a few audience members in my local theater start to shed a tear when it reached its climactic ending.

Moral: Our past is what makes us who we are today and should not be necessarily viewed as bad, only as a means to do better.

There's a lot to be said regarding Mario getting his own movie since he first debuted in the states by other names like Jump Man and Plumber Man. Now fast forward to 2023 and it seems creator Shigeru Miyamoto has given his blessing to make his beloved video game become a full-length feature film. Since the 80s, Super Mario Bros has become a popular and recognizable game that has delighted many gamers of all ages. It has spawned countless video games, an animated series, a live-action film adaptation (which I'll elaborate more near the end). But most of all, this version under full collaboration between Nintendo and Illumination proved to be quite the movie. Since 2010's Despicable Me, Illumination has assembled several hit films by experimenting with various genres, themes, and even (on one occasion) different animation mediums. Now taking on Nintendo? It's time for redemption after thirty years of lying dormant for so long.

Story goes. Mario and his brother Luigi are struggling plumbers in Brooklyn, but one day they answer a call to fix one leak that could help put them on the map and that's where their adventures truly begin. When magically transported to another world via a mysterious pipeline in the sewers, they must help a princess and her loyal subjects take on the evil tyrant Bowser and his Koopa soldiers.

While there's so many references and nostalgia to go around regarding Mario's many video games, different theme musics corresponding to some of them, and other media in so much of this 92-minute movie, what really stood out most are the unique cast of characters, their respective talented voice cast, and an impressive amount of details in this vast setting. I'm also aware of so much criticism the film received of Chris Pratt voicing the lead, red plumber in the many months before its release. I honestly have nothing to nitpick over it and after watching the whole movie play out, I have no clue what anyone was talking about. It worked out fine to me. Stars Charlie Day, Jack Black, Seth Rogen, and Anya-Taylor Joy really stood out. Not to mention a few cameos featuring original Mario voice Charles Martinet which is a nice touch and fitting tribute.

Where the notorious 1993 live-action film didn't succeed, I say this 2023 CGI film became the redemption for the Mario franchise as a movie. Directors Aaron Horvath (of Teen Titans Go fame) and Michael Jelenic did the right thing by bringing in Miyamoto onboard as producer and consultant, which was something that should've been done thirty years ago. It took three decades for Miyamoto to allow Hollywood to try again with the red, mustachioed Nintendo mascot. While trying not to overthink things about the entire movie's flaws, it's whimsical fun for kids to enjoy. From an adult's perspective, if you grew up playing the original games from the 80s or 90s, you're in for a fun run of nostalgia. I started thinking about Disney's Wreck-It Ralph when it came to seeing the visual settings and its humor. It's not necessarily a bad thing for it to look and feel similar, only that it was done in their own way. With flicks like Detective Pikachu and two Sonic films proving that there's still hope for the video game film genre, Mario now follows that trail. Well done, Universal and crew!

Long before Your Name and Weathering With You, I've continued to look back and watch the early works of filmmaker Makoto Shinkai. With an exceptional animation quality with details and pretty good visuals in both the countryside and city side of Japan, it's also got a story that can be entirely different from the standard happy ending.

Makoto Shinkai explored two people who knew each other since grade school and even looked out for each other through the best and worst of times, but as time moved forward, they slowly begin to drift apart. However, they still keep in touch as adults and that is where things get interesting.

Although bittersweet over where life takes you in later years, the entire movie represents that the most mundane parts in life help build where you could be as you get older. True, you can't grasp onto everything you've always dreamed of as a kid, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's about enjoying life and not taking it for granted.

For a retrospect of looking into the early works of filmmaker Makoto Shinkai, this is one that really caught my attention. Although I have seen this movie once before back in 2013, it had me think a bit more deeper into what made this movie so significant as his later works. Initially, I didn't get it back then. However, it's the themes that really spoke volumes.

The film tells the story of a young teen named Takao who aspires to become a shoemaker and spends most of his time at the local park sketching many different designs for shoes, until he meets a teacher named Yukino who also hangs around the park seemingly content. They soon learn a lot more from each other with each time they meet.

For a film with a runtime of 45 minutes, it's a movie that sums up the entire story smoothly. The themes of "loneliness" and "despair" are the main components that make up this movie. While both characters are troubled and basically fulfill each other's loneliness with the joy they couldn't find with their presence, it's not like they try to fix it. It merely gives them a purpose in working around it for the better. For Yukino to voluntarily allow Takao to model her feet to make his first pair of shoes, it allowed her to "walk again" despite getting away from her day job nearly on a daily basis. While at the same time allowed Takao to be inspired in further pursuing his shoemaking career. And like Shinkai's later films, the use of rain in Japan's city setting really sets the mood to finding that spark. This movie does not really count as a romance film as that is not the main focus of it. Instead, the "romance" is nuanced into something that's not seen in the traditional sense like it has in other works of anime and non-anime, live-action or animated. I interpret it as "appreciation towards each other," nothing more. With each passing day, it evolves into finding their way in life not by themselves, yet still keeping themselves grounded as well together. Enjoyable and keeps me pondering about my own outlook in life.

Puss in Boots proved itself to be the most impressionable installment in the Shrek film series. After what I've seen in the 2011 spin-off prequel, its follow-up The Last Wish really runs deep in to a more complex story with mature themes thrown into the mix. Like it still has its humor, charm, and lighthearted moments as before, but one thing that sets it off differently is the themes of mortality playing an integral part in Puss' life and the story.

Well over a decade later after his last adventure (and shortly after the events of Shrek Forever After), Puss always proved to be the charmer, showboater, and all-around feline with his fancy boots, hat, and sword who thinks he can do no wrong even scoffing at the face of danger and death with all of his skills. However, upon learning that he is mortal after losing eight of his nine lives in the past and up until recently, Puss begins to question if he is truly worthy as the legend and he will need the fabled Wishing Star to set him straight.

Antonio Banderas reprises his role with yet another great performance as well as the return of Salma Hayek as Kitty Softpaws. Marking their sixth movie together, they balance each other out well with both wittiness and passion. Their latest companion Perrito (played by What We Do in the Shadow's star Harvey Guillen) is good for wisecracks and his enthusiastic sense of humor. Much different from Zach Galifinakis' Humpty Dumpty in the 2011 film. The animation style is rather unique and was implemented here as it was with Academy Award-winning film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse. It's different from the photorealistic themes used before, but how it's used in the fight sequences gives off a storybook, painting-like feel and I admire that design.

Now what had me thinking really carefully was the white wolf stalking Puss. For him to be revealed as Death itself and the thought about mortality being so prominent in Puss' life, it became rather meaningful during the duel between them. And that dagger he wielded to outsmart Death is a form of symbolism. Puss knew he can't escape death, but with all these fears and uncertainties plaguing his one life left, he overcame it with the one thing that never came to mind: Love.

I actually heard a few audience members in my local auditorium quietly weeping over Puss' predicament and melancholy demeanor. I now see why awards season acknowledges this DreamWorks animated film. Left me intrigued and fascinated over what lies ahead next for him and his companions.

To understand what made the character Puss in Boots come to be before meeting Shrek, this spin-off prequel proved to be a movie that can hold its own. While anticipating what the next installment of this orange tabby feline will be with The Last Wish, it's best I started with this origin story first. The comedic energy intertwined with fairy tale concepts and twist on these characters is what made the Shrek films recognizable, so the execution of all that is retained in Puss' own film as well. Keeping the "Shrek" lineage.

Puss in Boots is a notorious outlaw who was once a symbol of honor, but when he is reunited with his estranged, childhood friend-turned-enemy Humpty Alexander Dumpty and the aid of another fellow rogue named Kitty Softpaws for a daring adventure in pursuing magic beans to find the fabled Golden Goose that lays golden eggs, Puss learns that this is more than just about clearing his name.

With the voices of Antonio Banderas as the titular role with costars Salma Hayek (reunited with Banderas in their fifth film together) and Hangover star Zach Galifinakis, this proved to be quite the ensemble cast. Their unique talents in bringing these characters to life really caught my attention. I should even add that the addition of musicians Rodrigo y Gabriela for the "dance fight" sequence is a nice Latin American touch. Since Shrek is completely absent from this movie after seeing his own films that featured Puss in three of them, this is an interesting way to see more of Puss' backstory as the cat with a Zorro complex (a role Banderas once played with such charisma). There seems to be a moral lesson as the story progresses as well. Though Puss holds a grudge against Humpty for betraying him years ago, they learn from each other as being the better person. Their differences are what makes them see why they do what they do. In the end, I liked what I saw and it definitely explains why it received similar accolades to the first two Shrek films. It's quite a charming movie.

So much has changed since the 2009 film Avatar became a worldwide sensation to moviegoers everywhere. James Cameron proved that creativity cannot be rushed and the end result is in its sequel The Way of Water. With the skills of his tech crew and his direction, he has shown plenty more of what the planet of Pandora has up its sleeve.

More than a decade has passed since Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) fought against a human invasion that he once sided with and has transferred his mind permanently into the body of his avatar to become a full-fledged Na'vi to be with his love Neytiri (Zoe Saldana). Eventually, he settled down with her and raised a family. However, it is then he learns that the last human colony that was expelled from Pandora have returned with a new group of military along with an old foe he once defeated. Therefore, Jake brings himself to flee with his family from the Omaticaya tribe and move to another tribe known as the Metkayina near the waters of Pandora.

Kate Winslet reunites with James Cameron since Titanic which is ironic since her character Ronal in this movie is a skilled free-diver compared to her previous character Rose who feared drowning and sinking in water. Likewise, the newcomers who portray Jake and Neytiri's children and adoptive kids are all unique and stand out well. Anyway, it's good to also see the return of other past cast members like Dileep Rao as Dr. Max Patel and Joel David Moore as Dr. Norm Spellman back along for the ride. Sadly, it would mark the first Avatar film without original composer James Horner. Glad they honored his memory by playing his original orchestral track of "I See You" for this sequel. Makes it feel more tranquil in the most calming scenes.

I can understand why it took so long for Mr. Cameron to assemble this movie as the tech he was looking for to bring this visual setting to life couldn't be perfected well enough to his liking. Motion capture has become an integral part of this movie's production and I have to say it pays off by bringing this tech underwater. With a runtime of 192 minutes (which tops the original's 162 minutes), I didn't even take notice of how lengthy it was. I was too focused on the new setting and new addition of characters that became part of the story, specifically newcomer Jack Champion as Spider. He sure stood out as an honorary Na'vi who is actually human basically being the Tarzan of Pandora. But learned to adapt and bond alongside them. The climactic ending seems to also pay homage to Titanic as well. Granted, the film's story is not at very high standards compared to Cameron's past hits. However, I liked what I saw overall. With all its epic war sequences, gripping moments, dubious intentions, and conflicts amongst clans and allies. I was on the edge of my seat clutching onto the armrests completely satisfied. Like the first film, the environmental message about respecting the ecosystem was also there. Worth the ticket.

The moral: With arduous efforts and great sacrifice, there shall be a just reward.

To describe Strange World, it's quite a tale to focus on strong family ties and bonds. I viewed this film on a Disney Cruise Lines and from what I saw the Clade family is quite an unusual bunch. Actor Jake Gyllenhaal plays Searcher, including Gabrielle Union as his onscreen wife Meridian, and Dennis Quaid playing his father Jaeger Clade (marking the reunion of Quaid and Gyllenhaal as father and son respectively since 2004's sci-fi/disaster film The Day After Tomorrow). While the entire movie pays homage to 1950s pulp science fiction-adventure films, it also feels like a blend of the family dynamics of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, the emotional tone of Up, and the exploration concept of Treasure Planet in terms of venturing into other worlds beyond our own. The steampunk-like feel also gives the setting and characters a nice touch.

The film tells the story of a farmer named Searcher Clade, who comes from a long line of explorers in his family. One day, his father Jaeger Clade goes missing after a bitter disagreement with his family years prior. Having not been found for years, Searcher is now a successful farmer in his town known as Avalonia. But when their daily livelihood is threatened, Searcher's family reunite with an old friend of his estranged father, and venture out to find him in this vast unknown terrain that the human mind can't even comprehend.

The comedic quarreling between father and son is worth a few laughs, especially when the grandson is caught in the middle. Though I think it's safe to say they have plenty of catching up to do. While this movie is certainly nowhere close to the levels of successful hits like Frozen, Zootopia, or even Moana and Encanto. It's a movie that reaches more at the levels of modest adventure hits Atlantis: The Lost Empire and Treasure Planet. I can already see a pattern that's seemingly repeating itself since the 2000s' post-Renaissance Era in this current decade too. Strange World is not a musical, but it's become a fine example of disagreements amongst family that feels too similar to Encanto's predicament along with representation to boot. To me, there can be all kinds of representation included into an animated film, but I consider this a movie with a plot too simple and could likely become yet another black sheep of the Disney family to say 1990's The Rescuers Down Under. Like it's a kid-friendly version of James Cameron's Avatar that feels misguided to what it wants to be. The misunderstandings and conflict amongst family is also what takes the place from the norm of having a designated Disney villain as well. Plus, the reveal on what they were exploring on all along? Well, that makes the characters parasites on a massive island-sized sea turtle. Interesting twist since the creatures they've encountered are the equivalent of antibodies and microorganisms that are defending the body like an immune system. The ending of it all also gave Moana-vibes which is not necessarily a bad thing. Nevertheless it's a change of pace from what Disney animated films are best known for.

While anticipating for the long-awaited sequel The Way of Water, it was time to look back on the 2009 movie by James Cameron. I never did watch Avatar in theaters those years ago and was about to graduate college around that time when it opened to rave reviews and earned its accolades. I went to watch the re-release of it to see what made this THE film to be the largest grossing movie in cinematic history. While I can say that it's a far from perfect movie with a story that sounds familiar, it proved to be a visual and emotional spectacle that stretched beyond my own imagination. Through the use of live-action blended with motion capture using tech that was both innovative and unheard of at the time, the equipment in help bringing this world and characters to life left me intrigued. As though you're focused on one thing that you'll eventually disregard the difference of what is real or not.

In the year 2154, a paraplegic soldier named Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) is recruited and jettisoned to the planet of Pandora to test out the latest technology that would allow him the use of his legs again. With the help of scientist Dr. Grace Augustine (Sigourney Weaver), his consciousness is transferred into the body of an avatar (as scientists call them the Na'vi). There, he learns how to be on the front lines again and at the same time falling in love with a native Na'vi named Neytiri (Zoe Saldana). Of course, conflicting notions of what really matters begin to arise from there in this strange, new environment millions of miles away from Earth.

Granted, there are so many similarities to past films that ventured into this kind of territory. Whereas on a side note, I also took notice of a particular children's book among Dr. Augustine's work station called "The Lorax." If anyone read that Dr. Seuss book, that could foreshadow of what's to come before the climax. The point is these concepts involving greed and the consequences of deforestation were explored much differently and was assembled to be its own movie, whether the filmmakers are aware of the similarities or not. James Cameron's library of films are without a doubt an eye-catcher that has an impressive ensemble cast and for Avatar to be paired with the music of the great composer James Horner? Makes it feel more engaging and enthralling. Reunited since 1997's Titanic. Overall, this is a sci-fi adventure flick that I think made its mark as noteworthy. A fun, immersive ride done by a renowned filmmaker.

What is so interesting about Easter Sunday is how it plays on the humorous side of Filipino culture in an American-produced film. Being of that heritage myself (but born in the states), it feels so familiar and immersive. As though you easily relate to these people as cousins and relatives you haven't seen in years. I had my mom (who comes from Manila) tag along to view this at our local theater to see what she makes of it. She had so much fun with it saying she found it to be "too true" and is something she's used to on her side of the family. Stand-up comic Jo Koy did a great job leading his first comedy vehicle under Universal and Spielberg's Amblin that the laughs were pretty much going on nonstop.

Since the movie is loosely based on the life of Jo himself and the way he describes Easter Sunday as the "Filipino Super Bowl," it's a delightful setup to getting to know his family life outside of his standup work. Sure, it has some exaggerated and fictional accounts over what his personal life is really like, but it nevertheless was worth viewing. As it is with my own cousins and relatives in both the states and overseas, the characters in this movie are quite likable and funny to be in the presence of. Jo's costars like Tia Carrere, Jimmy O. Yang, and scene stealer Tiffany Haddish keep the story going. Whereas newcomers like Brandon Wardell who plays his son Junior and Eva Noblezada as his son's love interest Tala gave great performances as well.

Basically, the entire movie focuses on Jo trying to balance his professional life and personal life to the best of his skills. Traveling outside LA to Daly City to meet his mom near San Francisco with his son in tow to build a better bond with him is something he is sorely missing. And of course, finding what's more important in life than just a high-profile job by itself. I'd say with the family values combined with the stereotypical motifs and gags of a Filipino family alone, it also tries to make it remain grounded too. Despite some parts of the movie feeling too similar in concept as a sitcom and past comedy flicks I've seen (along with the tendency for gags to sound recycled and go stale at times), Easter Sunday is definitely a silly knockout with the countless predicaments and misunderstandings Jo faces regardless of familiarity. I'd give it a shot. Wasn't disappointed.

I think everything that has culminated in the Jurassic film series since the early 90s has really left an impression for the past and present generation.

Four years have passed since Isla Nublar faced a violent volcanic eruption along with the Lockwood Manor incident, so Owen, Claire, and adoptive daughter Maisie have moved on to accept our modern day lives are now shared with living, breathing dinosaurs. Many familiar, but also uncovering new, dangerous species never seen before. However, Earth's ecosystem and balance are greatly affected by their presence that it also brought the attention of doctors Alan Grant, Ellie Sattler, and Ian Malcolm to step forward, join forces with Owen and his group, and stop these new threats.

While I was overly excited to see Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum reunited since the first Jurassic Park movie, I was really hoping there was going to be a solid story to conclude the Jurassic World trilogy. Unfortunately, the story was so-so to me and that's about it. Although it improves over its slow-paced predecessor Fallen Kingdom, director Colin Trevorrow's follow-up Dominion falls short as a whole. He succeeded in 2015 with Jurassic World, but I was expecting more could be addressed on what throws these characters into conflict. Using genetically-altered locusts and velociraptor Blue's offspring Beta as plot devices sounds interesting, but feels kind of lacking in execution.

This film will never reach landmark status as the 1993 original that will forever remain timeless, but Dominion is a movie that gives a tribute of sorts to what has transpired in the years that followed. Though I wouldn't call this movie awful, it gives off a feeble conclusion to the Jurassic World film trilogy.

I can go on forever about the numerous cameos of Disney, non-Disney characters, easter eggs, and gags found commonly on the internet. Sparing no expense! I will say that the story itself is basically a humongous love letter to the mystery footsteps of 1988 classic Who Framed Roger Rabbit (who happens to be one of those cameos, by the way)!

All stocked with countless meta humor in this live-action/animated setting that I seem to have gone on a huge nostalgia trip!

The beloved Disney Afternoon show 'Chip n Dale Rescue Rangers' has become one of many signature animated shows under the banner in the late 80s-early 90s, so fast forward to 2022. The show has ended its run, so the original Rescue Rangers have since parted ways and moved on with their own lives. Though when someone has been mysteriously abducting familiar toons in the city of Los Angeles, Chip must reunite with Dale to locate the culprit responsible.

Overall, director Akiva Schaffer did a splendid job with this. The whole movie pays homage to the chipmunk duo's heyday with the Disney Afternoon as well as Disney's past live-action/animated films. Schaffer did say that he didn't want to limit this film with only Disney-related cameos because he felt it would underutilize how much animation has evolved not just for Disney, but all other big name companies that were successful in their own right with animation in general. Thus why names like Paramount, Warner Bros, DreamWorks, and even Hasbro were also in on this! Something that has not been done since 1988. Sure 2012's Wreck-It Ralph followed from that too, but they were only centered around mainly video game characters from different companies within that genre. Clearly, Disney being paired with The Lonely Island trio onboard means giving their own personal comedic touch as well. For Chip and Dale to have normal voices (John Mulaney and Andy Samberg respectively) rather than their usual squeaky voices (Tress MacNeille and Corey Burton who are also back to briefly reprise their roles from the show), it's basically a meta-humorous nod as it was with Baby Herman in Roger Rabbit. Some don't like their new voices, but they might want to think about Herman when looking closely.

Anyway, it's a fun mystery adventure for longtime fans of the original series and opening the doors for a new generation. There's no case too big or case too small. When you need help just call!

After what I've witnessed in the first Sonic the Hedgehog film back in 2020, it was inevitable a sequel was on its way. Still have to give director Jeff Fowler mad props for listening to the fans over redesigning Sonic to resembling his video game counterpart. I stepped in for the Thursday Night showing at a local theater while vacationing in San Francisco. It's spectacularly assembled with a huge upgrade and higher stakes compared to its predecessor! While the first movie served as a sort of prelude to who Sonic is alongside the human characters that had critics questioning what the film was supposed to be, this sequel introduces new characters and a new storyline that help build this world into something much larger. As though this sequel knows what it really wants to be!

Roughly eight months have passed since Sonic (voiced once again by Ben Schwartz) defeated Dr. Robotnik by banishing him to another dimension. Since then, Sonic has made himself at home with his human companions Sheriff Tom Wachowski and wife Maddie. However, Robotnik has found a way to return to Earth with the help of the naive echidna Knuckles, who also vows vengeance against Sonic. With the assistance of ally Miles "Tails" Prower flying onto the scene to aid Sonic in this new threat, they team up to locate an elusive emerald said to possess immense power.

Jim Carrey's return as the villainous Dr. Ivo Robotnik with the usual eccentric, wisecracking humor as before, but displays more ruthlessness and threatening demeanor than ever. James Marsden and Tika Sumpter return as Sonic's human comrades, but to introduce fox companion Tails into the mix? He becomes a worthy ally voiced by veteran VA Colleen O'Shaughnessy, who reprises the role after voicing him in different 2010s media. Actor Idris Elba is also a welcoming addition as the hot-tempered, brute Knuckles the Echidna, who nailed the role easy.

With several references and humorous nods to the classic 90s SEGA games I fondly remembered playing as a kid, whether from badniks, familiar gadgetry, sound effects, and signature attack moves. All of it is woven into a movie adding 30 more minutes of runtime than the original with brilliant visuals and an interesting story with laughs and heart. The theater slowly erupted into awe and excitement that it's showing THIS is how a movie sequel (especially in live-action video game adaptations) should be done. And character development for Sonic? He now possesses morals than just being cocky. His human side really starts to show and would risk himself to save those he really cares about. This is no cash-in as some critics claim, this franchise still has plenty of speed left done by the Blue Blur himself. This cinematic universe is still growing. I recommend it.