Interstellar Review

Interstellar, Christopher Nolan’s most recent, and possibly most divisive, film to date.

Before The Dark Knight Rises, Christopher Nolan seemed untouchable. His films received both critical and commercial success, and the legion of "Nolanites" literally sent death threats to anyone that opposed his reign as the "Best Director of our Time." However, The Dark Knight Rises and Interstellar's mixed reception showed that Nolan was, indeed, human, as even some of his own fans said that it was not the "Best film ever made." So, how Interstellar does actually stack up to his previous work? Let's find out!

Directed by: Christopher Nolan

Genre: Sci-Fi

Release Date: November 5, 2014

Running Time: 169 minutes

MMPA rating: PG-13

The Good: Gripping and suspense scenes, Exceptional performances, Incredible special effects, Hans Zimmer soundtrack, Well developed main protagonist, Unexpected plot twists, Fascinating world building, Unique robot design, Surprisingly well executed finale (except for one major thing),

The Bad: Various minor plot holes, Inconsistent character motivations, Apparently predictable twists, Several convenient dumb moments, Music overpowers important dialogue,

Plot Summary: Interstellar follows Joseph "Coop" Cooper, a widowed father of two, and a former pilot, NASA astronaut and engineer, as he is recruited for a mission to explore a wormhole that leads to another galaxy with potentially habitable planets.

Plot: 8.7/10- Interstellar introduces us to a fascinating future where is famine sweeping across the nation and taxpayer money is no longer spent on space exploration. The world Interstellar builds is enthralling, yet simple. Unlike most "apocalyptic wastelands" ravaged by war or "global warming," Nolan shows us a world that is not too difficult to believe. From the early scenes with Cooper's family on the farm, the film draws you in for an engaging space epic that is gripping from beginning to end.

Despite a potentially slow pace and a nearly three hour runtime, Interstellar is never boring. It moves from place to place with ease. The film exploration, of not only space, but the concepts of time relativity and how it affects the characters and the story creates compelling drama. As a fan of time-travel and other science fiction related to time, Interstellar's use of those concepts fascinated me, so if you are not interested in those concepts, maybe you will find it needlessly complicated.

Unfortunately, Interstellar is not without its flaws. Throughout the film, there are minor plot holes, plot conveniences, dumb actions by characters, and various aspects that fall apart when you think about them. However, the film's ambitious ideas overshadow many of the flaws from an entertainment perspective.

Characterization: 8.2/10- Cooper is one of Nolan's most relatable and likable characters to date. He is a widowed father with a family, and while that might seem like a cheap way to create an emotional connection with the audience, it certainly succeeded. Sure, Cooper might completely forget his son, but his relationship with his daughter, Murphy, is an effective tether to maintain Cooper’s connection to Earth.

Aside from Cooper and Murphy, the supporting is not nearly as well fleshed out. Dr. Amelia Brand is a bland character with inconsistent motivations. She is not a terrible character by any means, but just not a great one. My favorite, however, is the robot TARS. TARS' design is distinctly different than other robots, and as a fan of science fiction, the way the character is portrayed with his wit and the way he is used is fascinating!

Direction: 9.7/10- Christopher Nolan is at his finest with Interstellar. Visually, the film is striking, especially the scenes in space. However, the strongest aspect of Nolan's direction is the tension he creates. Several scenes of the film are positively gripping! They had me on the edge-of-my-seat!

Acting: 9.2/10- Matthew McConaughey is at the top of his game in Interstellar. His slow drawl when he talks draws the audience in, and his performance is the reason Cooper is such a likable and relatable character. Anne Hathaway is adequate in her role, and the rest of the cast do a fine job with the material.

Special effects: 10/10- Hands down, Interstellar has the best visual effects of 2014. Nolan's use of practical effects makes everything look far more realistic, and therefore more engaging. You feel like you are in space! It is incredible.

Soundtrack: 9.0/10- Hans Zimmer's score is different than his norm, which is great. His tracks create the perfect atmosphere for the film. However, there is one massive flaw; the music greatly overpowers the dialogue, especially during important scenes! At times, you literally cannot understand a word characters are saying, and it is annoying. How did the film make it past screenings with such a massive flaw!? It felt very unprofessional. Thankfully, it only impacts a few scenes.

Humor: N/A- Aside from TARS' perfectly timed humor, Interstellar is not a particularly humorous film.

Entertainment Value: 9.7/10- Despite the long runtime, Interstellar felt like watching a two hour film. From beginning to end, it engaged me on multiple levels, and as a sci-fi fan, it opens exciting new frontiers for space exploration films.

Overall: 8.6/10- Flawed as it may be, Interstellar is an engaging film that explores ambitious concepts with a main protagonist that the audience can relate to. Sure, it may not be one of Nolan's best films, but it highlights what Nolan excels at: Ambitious filmmaking. 

Closing comments: Even though Gravity dissuaded my interest in space film, Interstellar rekindles my dire to see more films like this! And in comparison to Nolan's other works, it is certainly better than The Dark Knight Rises, yet considerably weaker than Inception and right below Batman Begins.

Recommended for: Sci-fi fans, Nolan fans, Space exploration fans, Time-Travel fans,

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Jared Leto's Joker Revealed in Suicide Squad

What the heck!? Jared Leto's take on the Joker has finally been revealed for the upcoming Suicide Squad, and it nothing like anyone expected. What is going on here!? He looks like some punkrock drug dealer! Of all the upcoming DC films, Suicide Squad is the one that I am most hyped for, and this new photo isn't doing my hype any favors. 

Despite initial impressions, there are some interesting aspects of this photo. For one, Jared Leto is, again, unrecognizable in a role, and I have no doubt that he will kill it as the character (pun intended). The skull jester looks somewhat sinister, and the mouth on the arm is not a bad idea. The "HAHAHAHA" everywhere isn't terrible I suppose, but just like Jeremy Jahns said, these tattoos look like something a Joker fan would get, and the "Damaged" on his forehead is not something the Joker would do to himself (maybe he didn't?).

His eyes look insane, and the green hair is a good throwback to the classic look, so those elements are not bad. What I absolutely hate is the grill on his teeth, or are silver replacement teeth. Hopefully, the Joker will wear a snazzy purple suit like the original Joker, so that the tattoos are not as prominent. Or maybe this will look a lot better in the film. With such a punkrock look for the Joker, I am afraid of what that might mean for Harley Quinn's appearance; will she also be a punk rocker? Of all the DC movies, I really want this one to be good! David Ayer has had some ups and downs with his films, but he has had several critical hits, and I hope this is one of them, because a movie about villains is exactly what I want to see. 

On a side note, this version of the Joker reminds me of Jake Martinez (picture below) from Tiger and Bunny (I highly recommend the series for superhero fans). From how he is portrayed in the series, Jake is a very Joker like to the point where he has an assistant that refers to him as "Mr. Jake," much like Harley and the Joker.

To a lesser degree, his small build and tattoos remind me of Jonny Lee Miller's take on Sherlock Holmes in Elementary (not that’s it s positive or negative thing).

What do you think of this new Joker? Please comment below and let me know, and do not forget to check out my Avengers Countdown post by clicking here.

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Top 10 Movie Villains: Part 3 (Final)

The final part of my Top 10 Movie Villains list is here. If you missed the previous parts you can click here for part 1 and here for part 2.

3: The Joker (The Dark Knight)

Quote: "You wanna know how I got these scars?"

How could Heath Ledger's Joker not make the list? Anyone who does not include him in the Top 10 would effectively be lynched by the internet! With that said, there is no denying that The Joker is a legendary film villain. Ledger’s performance is the highlight of The Dark Knight. For me personally, he is at least 90% of the reason The Dark Knight is entertaining to watch. Christian Bale's Batman is fine, but Ledger steals every scene he is in. My only minor issue with the Joker is that he is more of an antagonistic force opposed to a fully fleshed out character, and that definitely works perfectly for what the film required. 

2: Loki (Marvel)

Quote: "All humans crave subjugation."

Despite the fangirl raving, Loki is an incredibly complex character with well developed motivations and understandable actions. Starting with his first appearance in Thor, many viewers not familiar with the comics were apparently surprised that Loki turned out to be the villain in the film. In the comics, Loki was always present but rarely as memorable as Marvel's other villains, and after his appearance in The Avengers, Loki turned from a mid-tier Marvel villain to one of the most popular characters. In fact, I would go as far to say that the film version of Loki is better than the one in the comics at that time, or at least the ones I read (which were not many with him in it). Tom Hiddleston changed the character's image from a trickster into a tragic and likable villain that is still ultimately villainous. Loki is not just a compelling villain, but a well crafted character with just as much development as many protagonist, something rarely seen in film villains. Before anyone makes the argument that Loki is becoming more of an anti-hero than a villain, remember, his seemingly heroic actions in The Dark World *Spoilers* were ultimately to enact his plan to take the throne of Asgard from Odin. *End Spoilers* However, he can still be considered a "tragic villain." 

1: Darth Vader

Quote: "You have controlled your fear. Now, release your anger. Only your hatred can destroy me."

Could there be any other? Along with the Joker, Death Vader is easily the most iconic villain in the history of media. Whether or not Anakin in the prequels counts as Vader is debatable, but to me, Darth Vader is James Earl Jones voicing someone in the iconic suit, or at least after Anakin was dubbed Vader by Palpatine. In Star Wars (1977), Vader's entrance is unforgettable, and arguably the best villain introduction. At first, Vader served as the imposing antagonist against our lovable heroes. While his past is hinted at the first film, even more is revealed until the ultimate plot twist is revealed. (If, for whatever insane reason you do not know what the twist in Empire Strike Back is, continue to the comment section.) Darth Vader is Luke's father, and the entire dynamic of the character changes, which all comes together with his ultimate redemption in Return of the Jedi. Darth Vader is not just my favorite villain; he is always vying for number one spot as my favorite character of all-time. 

Who are your favorite movie villains? What do you think of my top picks? Please comment below and let me know! 

• Top 10 Movie Villains: Part 1
• Top 10 Movie Villains: Part 2

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Batman v Superman Trailer Review/Breakdown

After the ridiculous amount photos and posters, the teaser trailer for Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is here, and it is presents some interesting things to discuss. 

Opening with a narration by Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor and others that discuss how Superman is a savior, and maybe someone like him is too powerful to be allowed free reign. For one, Eisenberg's voice starts out different than expected, but as he talks more, all I can see is the usual Eisenberg that we have seen so many times. At this point, I need to see him in action before I make my judgment. 

The more interesting aspect of the trailer is the Superman statue. Sure, Superman is virtually an all powerful being, but he is responsible for countless deaths in Metropolis, which Man of Steel completely glossed over. So, are the masses praising Superman out of fear or out of gratitude? Or maybe both. Thematically, the movie raises an interesting idea of Superman essentially being worshiped. The comparison to others with power that people follow, like Hitler or Stalin, presents potentially fascinating ideas. However, considering how poorly Man of Steel implemented its themes, I have a feeling that the movie is going to turn out to be a pretentious mess, thematically at least. Of course, the DC fanboys will praise it for being "dark" and "edgy" but it will just fall flat on its face. On the other hand, you never know, maybe the movie will surprise us. 

Another issue I have is that Superman as a character is painfully bland. He lacks any charm or relatable humanity. Watching this trailer made me realize just how unlikable this version of Superman is. I am not the type of Superman fan that complains about changes to the comic book, but I do like the character in the general. Unless Kal-El is developed quickly, there will be no reason for the audience to care about him or his fight against Batman. Even though I know very little about this version of Batman, I am already on his side. 

Ultimately, do I think this is going to be a amazing movie? Probably not, unless the script is a significant improvement over Man of Steel, but it should at least be a good movie that is fun to watch. If Zack Snyder is good at one thing, it is action sequences (even if they are repetitive).

Ironically, I am more excited about the new episodes of Arrow and The Flash this week than I am for this movie. With that said, I still want to see if BvS crashes and burns or rises up the ashes. Below are screenshots with my commentary.

My guess that this is Mexico, which makes it seem like Superman goes on tour.

Something about the special effects here look off. Hopefully it will be fixed in the film.

Now this is an interest picture. It is difficult to see, but if you look at the shoulder patches on the soldiers, you will see Superman's "S" logo. Now this is an exciting idea, because Superman appears to have a task force specifically for him, and maybe he did not even want it in the first place.

Who is that looking up at Superman? Is he just a random guy that Superman saves or someone important?

Now this is where the trailer gets really interesting. Superman being worshiped is an intriguing idea. While I have my doubts about the execution of the concept, it is very reminiscent of The Dark Knight Returns in certain respects, although Superman is almost portrayed as villainous.

*Broody Ben Batfleck is brooding.* Could Affleck look any more brooding? With that said, I am on board with Affleck as Bruce Wayne. He definitely has the jawline and the actin talent.

Since Superman has his own task force, this gives Batman some lackeys to fight, and that is exactly what this shot looks like.

Our first look at Batfleck in the normal Batman suit. As expected, this is heavily inspired by The Dark Knight Returns' version of Batman. I assume Affleck's costume is majorly bulked up because he is not nearly that big in real life.

The classic Batman looking over the city. However, this is another failed effects shot. It looks too stiff, and the cape is just wrong.

"I am Iron Bat!" Bruce Wayne takes a page out of Tony Stark's book by creating a mechanical suit to battle a superpowered being. Also, his voice changing tech is exactly what Batman needed, which is similar to CW's Arrow.

"Tell me, do you bleed? You will." Now this is the money shot of the trailer. The big confrontation of between Batman and Superman. Somehow, the movie must introduce a reasonable explanation for how Batman is going to fight Superman. Superman can move faster than the speed of sound to the point where he can dismantle Batman's mechanical suit before Batman even realizes it. Without Kryptonite or a similar plot device, Batman stands no reasonable chance. Maybe, they are going to have a brooding contest to see which of these emo guys can be more depressed (just kidding).

My impression of the logo is kind of meh. It looks too fat, but it is fine.

What did you think of the trailer? Please comment below and check back tomorrow for the final part of my Top 10 Villains list.

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Batman v. Superman Full Teaser Trailer

The full official Batman v. Superman Teaser Trailer is here! And it is interesting to say the be least. Due to it being leaked, DC decided to just go ahead and release, which is not a terrible idea, except for the fact that everyone is raving about how awesome the Star Wars trailer is. Hopefully, by Monday, I will have a full trailer breakdown with screenshots, commentary, and my thoughts. However, I will say that it has some good elements.

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Batman v. Superman Teaser Trailer

Update: The full teaser trailer is now released. Check it out by clicking here!

A new teaser has been released for Batman v. Superman, and it is literally 20 seconds of us looking at the Batman and Superman costumes. Apparently, the first real teaser trailer is set to be released in IMAX screenings with an internet release surely on the way. Despite how dull the film is likely to be with Snyder at the helm, I am interested in what the movie is going to look like, and if it actually going to be as colorless as we all joke about. The full trailer is said to have been leaked online, but as with any leak, it has been taken down, so we will just have to wait for the official release. What do you think of the teaser? Please comment below and let me know.

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New Batman v Superman Lex Luthor Picture

Yet another picture from Batman v Superman has been released, and this time it is of a bald Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor. Considering the lack of color in all of these promotional images, either Jack Snyder is color blind (I would not be surprised) or the movie is being filmed in black and white. In all seriousness, this new picture is yet another instance of what we have come to expect from this film. Well, at least Lex is bald now, but I still do not see Eisenberg as the character. What do you think? Please comment below and let me know, and check back tomorrow for a movie review.

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Jason Momoa as Aquaman Official Picture

The first official pictures of Jason Momoa as Aquaman in DC's upcoming films, presumably Batman v Superman, is here! Yes, I realize that this is old news, but I had a cold for the last week, so I am behind on all this stuff. Anyway, this looks more or less like we would expect a Jason Momoa as Aquaman would turn out. It is kind of a hybrid of the 90s and early 00s Aquaman from my era combined with Momoa's role in Game on Thrones (well, somewhat). Of course, the colors are washed out and dull, while that may just be because of the filters used on the picture, DC is trying their hardest to make the most visually dull and uninteresting heroes possible, and they are certainly succeeding in that respect. However, of all the costumes revealed thus far, this is my favorite since he does look bad*ss. Ever since watching Jason Momoa in Stargate Atlantis, I have always liked the actor, so out of the casting choices DC has made, he is also my favorite. Sure, this Aquaman bears little resemblance with most comic book incarnations, but to paraphrase Jeremy Jahns, how many people are actually Aquaman fans? Ever since the Super Friends, he is essentially a joke, so it will take a lot to make him cool, and DC is trying just that. Also, to be clear, until I either watch Batman v Superman or see a mind-blowing trailer, nothing will make care all that much about these upcoming DC films. We already know that they will likely be dull, colorless, and lacking in any of the charm that Marvel, or even DC's shows like The Flash and Arrow, contain, so we will just have to wait and see. Please let me know what you think of the Aquaman costume in the comments below!

Current Aquaman.

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Memento Review

Before Christopher Nolan hit it big with movies like The Dark Knight Trilogy and Inception, he first made a name for himself with a small, yet brilliantly crafted, mystery thriller titled, Memento.

Memento follows Leonard, a former insurance fraud investigator that is on the hunt for the man that murdered his wife. However, there is a catch. While trying to save his wife from an attacker, he suffered a brain damage, which caused anterograde amnesia. Due to the anterograde amnesia, Leonard can only remember very recent events, like within the last 30 minutes or less, the movie begins at the end of the story and jumps back to each point before Leonard’s memory fades, which creates for a unique experience for the audience.

Anterograde amnesia is when a person cannot create new memories yet retains all, or most, of his or her memories prior to the incident. While there is more explanation in the movie, according to medical experts, Memento displays the most accurate representation of anterograde amnesia in film. To combat his memory problems, Leonard writes many notes and takes pictures to remind him of what he needs to do and who people are.

Directed by: Christopher Nolan

Genre: Mystery, Thriller,

Release Date: September 5, 2000

Running Time: 113 minutes

MMPA rating: R

The Good: Inventive and unique narrative devices, Perfectly paced, Mind-bendingly complex, Nearly flawless plotting, Top notch performances,

The Bad:

Plot: 9.9/10- Memento’s plot is unique, tight, and nearly flawless. 

As good as Nolan’s later films have been, even some of his best have had major plot holes and inconsistencies, yet, at least from what I have deduced, there are few if any plot holes in Memento. Using the narrative device of the character’s anterograde amnesia by starting from the end and going backwards to the beginning is not a gimmick, because almost everything takes place from the perspective of the main character Leonard. As for the mystery, Nolan leaves enough clues for the audience to figure it out, but not enough to make it obvious and the actual mystery is oh so intriguing to figure out.

Characterization: 9.2/10- Despite the continual time jumps, the main character, Leonard, is surprisingly compelling. While the other characters are not particularly developed, they are all memorable and distinct. 

Acting: 9.3/10- Guy Pearce’s performance is particularly exceptional as Leonard. He is able to convey the character’s condition effectively. Carrie-Anne Moss and Joe Pantoliano give noteworthy performances as well. 

Soundtrack: 7.2/10- While the score can be somewhat effective at points, it is barely noticeable overall.

Humor: N/A-

Entertainment Value: 8.9/10- Since the neo-noir mystery style is particularly appealing to me, trying to piece together the plot was very entertaining.

Overall: 9.5/10- Memento is a superbly crafted mystery film with a unique narrative structure and strong performances, there is nothing negative that can be said about the film.

Closing comments: OK.... What am I doing again? Ah, it looks like I am writing a review for something called “Memento.” I don't remember watching that....

Recommended for: Mystery fans, Christopher Nolan fans (Nolanites), Noir fans, Guy Pearce fans, Thriller fans,

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