Movie Review: Pirates of the Carribean at Stranger Tides 3D

Genre: Action & Adventure, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Comedy

Directed By: Rob Marshall

Written By: Ted Elliot, Terry Rossio

Casts:

Penelope Cruz as Angelica
Geoffrey Rush as Captain Hector Barbossa
Ian McShane as Blackbeard
Kevin McNally as Joshamee Gibbs

Synopsis:

Johnny Depp returns to his iconic role of Captain Jack Sparrow in an action-packed adventure. Crossing paths with the enigmatic Angelica (Penélope Cruz), he's not sure if it's love-or if she's a ruthless con artist who's using him to find the fabled Fountain of Youth. When she forces him aboard the "Queen Anne's Revenge," the ship of the legendary pirate Blackbeard (Ian McShane), Jack finds himself on an unexpected adventure in which he doesn't know whom to fear more: Blackbeard or Angelica, with whom he shares a mysterious past. -- (C) Disney

REVIEW:

The movie was okay. I nearly got bored watching the whole film which I expect to be more exciting and interesting with Johnny Depp's Ever-Epic Performance and Portrayal as Jack Sparrow.

To begin with, I am not a huge fan of Pirates Series... Most of the times, I always watch such films when its out on DVD. The story was nice especially the last Pirates at World's End. Actually, I don't have a solid knowledge on the whole nutshell of the stories. Just Pirates and Black Pirates and all those stuff that concerns being one.

Whats a sort of disappointment of the film that its kinda noisy on some parts... The Action sequences was just okay and it was less humorous compared with the other Pirate Films. And the plot and the story is so vague that you could barley imagine the real relationship with Jack Sparrow and Angelica. The plot was pointless and flat. It was less adventurous and less interesting to watch even though superb performances were shown by most of its characters. The narration of the story was more on a point blank rather than being progressive as it climbs on the CLIMAX.

The setting was great and the production design was still exceptional compared with other Pirate Films. Its just that, it lacks EXPLOSION and SURPRISES!

I still commend Johnny Depp's Portrayal yet it did not save the film from a complete disappointment and a trash sequel.

And what makes it more disappointing is that its 3D thing is a COMPLETE FAILURE! I mean, it was so unnecessary on some point and scenes. I mean, it is as good as it was on 2D. Its just a waste of money for me to have spent watching such film on 3D!

I almost felt asleep as the film progresses for hours. However, its a good installment anyways. I just didn't like its totality!

I hope they make a better sequel NEXT TIME!

RATINGS: 3 STARS

Movie Review: DRIVE ANGRY 3D

GENRE: Action, Fantasy, Thriller

Synopsis:

A vengeful father escapes from hell and chases after the men who killed his daughter and kidnapped his granddaughter.

Director: Patrick Lussier
Writers: Todd Farmer, Patrick Lussier
Stars: Nicolas Cage, Amber Heard and William Fichtner

REVIEW:

Well, Drive Angry 3D is just one of the long lists of EVIL SLASHERS that is somehow above the cut through its technological addition - the 3D!

Overall, the film was good but not that impressive at all. I mean, Nicolas Cage's Performance was great. He is just so fitted with this kind of characters portraying a SCI-FI man in whatever uniqueness it maybe. He has the power to allure us with his adaptive and effective acting especially here in Drive Angry.

Other characters of the film especially the Accountant were also good. Given the fact that a bunch of SATANIST FREAKS are studded in the whole story... they were utterly effective to become one.

Plot wise... it wasn't impressive and you see lots of loop holes in it. The story started with Nicolas having this kind of extraordinary strength and deadly weapons... Eventually, leading you the story that he came from hell and just escaped to come back for revenge. Somehow, this part of the story disappointed me since there were no vivid narration on how on earth did Nicolas got out from hell. On the other hand, the purpose was clear and that is to give revenge for his daughter and claim back his grand daughter. But it is just all in a nutshell. The plot is what you see what you get. The ending however somehow drove away the NEGATIVITY OF THE FILM. But more or less... it is!

Editing wise and its 3D thing is fairly good. Although the graphic or visual effects could have been better because some scenes showed a sort of a CHEAP KIND OF HOLLYWOOD EDITING (especially in the Climax and the ending. Editing wasn't impressive at all and quite far from other films with Superb effects. On the 3D side, I wasn't able to watch it on theaters but I can see its effect even on normal screens. The 3D was averagely applicable to the film as you see shattering glasses, gun shots, splattering of blood and explosions... which added appeal and realism to the film.

The film was okay since there were no twists at all. The director and writers just laid its plot even though at the start of the film. You just watch out with unexpected moments and violent/gruesome/obscene scenes that made this film NOT APPEALING to youngsters.

And the film is kinda disturbing since it involved people worshiping SATAN AS THEIR GOD. Some religious-sensitive individuals couldn't find this movie worth-watching.

RATINGS: 3 STARS

Movie Review: BEASTLY

GENRE: Romantic, Science-Fiction

Synopsis:

Kyle (Alex Pettyfer) thinks he is God's gift at his high school. He plays a prank on a fellow high school student, Kendra (Mary-Kate Olsen) who, unbeknown to him is a witch. Kendra teaches him a lesson by putting a curse on him making him as beastly on the outside as he is on the inside. He has one year to find someone to fall in love with him or stay like that forever.

Director: Daniel Barnz
Writers: Daniel Barnz (screenplay), Alex Flinn (novel)
Stars: Alex Pettyfer, Vanessa Hudgens and Mary-Kate Olsen

REVIEW:

Beastly was a barely feel-good romantic film that could easily be forgotten and not worth to be watched again. It is just like watching an ordinary romance between an ugly beast over a charming woman induced with Modern twist.

Yes, it is a MODERN DAY BEAUTY AND THE BEST but it lacks magic, chemistry and even the vital factor of making this film even more appealing as romantic. Beastly is also a science-fiction one drooling over the cliche reality one could fall in love with a beast.

However, the mood and the characters in the story fairly did well helping the whole movie to survive from a complete trash. Thanks to ALEX who is so hot and attractive despite him being in those nerve-studded body and face. And of course, an average performance from PINAY PRIDE and HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL STAR, Vanessa Ann Hudgens. In fairness, Vanessa was stunning in the film. However, the ordinary performances of the main casts especially the leads weren't enough to bring it to the cut or even the average line.

The story was kinda lame and shallow considering ALEX was being punished by a WITCH turning him into a more or less BEAST look. Then, here comes Vanessa... falling in love with Alex despite his looks. Kinda an overused plot for centuries. What is disappointing is that the CLIMAX and the RESOLUTION is so weak that you couldn't even identify whats the catch and whats the problem. The storyline was also compromised with a more or less cheap production and setting. The movie ended with just a short notice leaving no impact at all.

Indeed, this is a feel-good movie with nothing special or extraordinary about it and is worth watching for one time only. But hey, this film isn't bad at all. Its not just great.

PS: Some reviews stated that BEASTLY was a Book adaptation. Whatever it is... Fans of such must be contained in such verbal adaptation than the visual one.

RATINGS: 2 STARS

Movie Review: MY SOUL TO TAKE 3D

GENRE: Mystery, Thriller, Suspense

Synopsis:

In the sleepy town of Riverton, legend tells of a serial killer who swore he would return to murder the seven children born the night he died. Now, 16 years later, people are disappearing again. Has the psychopath been reincarnated as one of the seven teens, or did he survive the night he was left for dead? Only one of the kids knows the answer. Adam "Bug" Heller (Max Thieriot) was supposed to die on the last night the Riverton Ripper wrecked havoc on that terrifying night. Unaware of terrifying crimes being committed to the seven children, he has been plagued by nightmares of their murders while not aware if they hold true or if he is simply imagining the images that haunt him. But if Bug hopes to save his friends from the monster that's returned, he must face an evil that won't rest...until it finishes the job it began the day he was born.

Director: Wes Craven
Writer: Wes Craven
Stars: Max Thieriot, John Magaro and Denzel Whitaker

REVIEW:

This is a MAJOR-MAJOR Disappointment from a Master Horror Flick Director "WES CRAVEN". At first, I can't believe he can do this kind of rotten and atrociously bad film. Given of the well-renowned director working with some never heard celebrities in Hollywood, the movie still SUCKS.

The plot and the story was at first interesting since it involves a SERIAL KILLER over 7 children born the day he was allegedly killed or put into rest. However, the pacing was bad and predictable. The story failed to however put suspense on why did the KILLING has gone back. It may give you an impression that the SERIAL KILLER is back and might have survived 16 years after. But, the writers and director failed to post momentum or even suspense. The twist and turns were pretty bad and obvious. In short, very shallow and irrational.

What made the movie even worst was its 3D feature. Although I have watched it via streaming online, I truly can say that its 3D is a COMPLETE FAILURE! I mean, it is unnecessary and irrelevant because as what I have seen, there were no appropriate scenes were 3D is highly visible, applicable and even effective. I pity those who spent just to watch it on 3D.

Acting was below average. The film is studded with newly-sprung actors and actresses. Making the film to be LESS MAIN STREAM considering its a WES CRAVEN Flick. Poor scripts and bad transitions. I can;t even classify it as a Mystery Thriller in GENRE! The climax was not at its height. In fact, its ANTI-CLIMATIC.

I am so disappointed with Wes Craven in MY SOUL TO TAKE. Now is the time that he shall reinvent his expertise and come up with flicks that are above the cut and average.

RATINGS: 1 STAR

"PANATA NG KAPUSO SA BAYAN"

Michael Carbon - REPORTER and RESEARCHER for GMA GENSAN TV 8 (September 29, 2010 - April 15, 2011)

It is an awesome and great experience to finally become a Certified Kapuso. Its been my dream after graduation to experience what is like to be in the TV Industry. As a Mass Communication Student, its an honor and a pleasure to be working with one of the biggest Television and Broadcasting Company in the Philippines - GMA NETWORK INC.

But I am more than prouder to say that I belong in the PIONEERING BATCH of GMA GENSAN.

It is but a Blessing and a Gift to be part of ISYU KARON SOCCSKSARGEN, the first Local Offering Show of GMA to its loyal viewers and Kapuso in South Central Mindanao. And then again, GMA continues to provide SERBISYONG TOTOO throught its innovative and localized Programs such as ISYU KARON which is launched last October and November 2010 to various key cities in the Philippines such as Dagupan, Cebu, Davao, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo and General Santos City.

Truly indeed, GMA has extended its Regional Reach through the formulation of such shows in order to showcase the locality's features and as well as touch its views and related issues on the national scope.

That is why, I am so proud to become part of this wonderful endeavor by the Kapuso NETWORK.

I will always stay as KAPUSO forever bringing the priceless insights and values I have absorbed and learned all throughout my SIX MONTHS stay and dedication for the Network.

I will be always grateful to all my co-workers, my mentors and bosses, the people I have interacted and features, and of course, the Network itself for helping me reach my dreams and been able to experience its manifestation of ideals and Core Values that would make you acclaim "PROUD TO BE KAPUSO"!



PS: For list of some of my features and segments in ISYU KARON SOCCSKSARGEN... feel free to visit my Youtube channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/ariestahin08

Movie Review: VANISHING ON 7TH STREET

GENRE: MYSTERY, THRILLER

Synopsis:

When a massive power outage plunges the city of Detroit into total darkness, a disparate group of individuals find themselves alone. The entire city's population has vanished into thin air, leaving behind heaps of empty clothing, abandoned cars and lengthening shadows. Soon the daylight begins to disappear completely, and as the survivors gather in an abandoned tavern, they realize the darkness is out to get them, and only their rapidly diminishing light sources can keep them safe.

Director: Brad Anderson
Writer: Anthony Jaswinski
Stars: Hayden Christensen, Thandie Newton and John Leguizamo

REVIEW:

Overall, the MOVIE was very DISAPPOINTING!

The whole film was lame and boring. The plot itself is so weak that it can't stand alone by not narrating how it all started. I mean, we are not new with the idea of these kinds of movies where a certain phenomena is happening or already happened ending up the characters to figure out such. Too bad for this film that it FAILED to maintain the momentum of the viewers with bad acting, cheap production, poor script and less effects at all.

The whole story was vague. The director didn't gave a resolution to the whole film. It is just ending it up for the sake of making a FILM. A lot of disappointment to the totality of the whole thing.

In order for that to occur, the movie itself must provide the plot points, the material that allows, and draws the viewer to want to connect the dots and create, so to speak, their own movie within a movie. In short, the director and the writers didn't gave JUSTICE and EAGERNESS in making this film even a little better below average.

In the end, the movie doesn't have anything to tell at all. The movie speaks for itself VANISHING!

RATINGS: 1 STAR

Movie Review: FAST FIVE

Synopsis:

Vin Diesel and Paul Walker lead a reunion of returning all-stars from every chapter of the explosive franchise built on speed in Fast Five. In this installment, former cop Brian O'Conner (Paul Walker) partners with ex-con Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel) on the opposite side of the law. Dwayne Johnson joins returning favorites Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Matt Schulze, Sung Kang, Gal Gadot, Tego Calderon and Don Omar for this ultimate high-stakes race. Since Brian and Mia Toretto (Brewster) broke Dom out of custody, they've blown across many borders to elude authorities. Now backed into a corner in Rio de Janeiro, they must pull one last job in order to gain their freedom. As they assemble their elite team of top racers, the unlikely allies know their only shot of getting out for good means confronting the corrupt businessman who wants them dead. But he's not the only one on their tail. Hard-nosed federal agent Luke Hobbs (Johnson) never misses his target. When he is assigned to track down Dom and Brian, he and his strike team launch an all-out assault to capture them. But as his men tear through Brazil, Hobbs learns he can't separate the good guys from the bad. Now, he must rely on his instincts to corner his prey...before someone else runs them down first. -- (C) Universal

Distributor:Universal Pictures
Directed By: Justin Lin
Written By: Chris Morgan

Starring:

Vin Diesel as Dominic Toretto
Paul Walker as Brian O'Conner
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Hobbs
Jordana Brewster as Mia Toretto
Tyrese Gibson as Roman Pearce
Chris "Ludacris" as Bridges
Tej Matt Schulze as Vincent
Sung Kane as Sung Kang Han

GENRE: ACTION, ADVENTURE

REVIEW:

The Movie FAST FIVE was INSANE!!!

The most action-packed movie I have seen after Mission Impossible. The movie is just full of surprises and thrills that would make your 2 hours almost a passing time. In the end, you wish the film was a little longer.

Great Casts! Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne Johnson were such a TRIO of MADNESS. Acting was above average but it fairly went well all over the film's appeal. I really commend the fighting scene of Dwayne and Vin... It was EPIC! I feel like I'm watching UFC! The different appeal of each of the characters blended with its vision to keep the momentum of this high-octane film.

The director was great. The shots and camera angles used were superb. Shots were precise and appropriate. The setting in BRAZIL was also a great choice for car chasing scenes. It would just make the film even more difficult to make as you see it on screen.

Superb Car Models, Chases and Crashes... Another dazzling display of stunt driving and death-defying Stunts leaving you at AWE for almost 2 Hours. This film never fail to amaze with those dream cars. The film suited not only action-packed lovers but also car lovers as well.

It is packed with jaw dropping, eye popping action from beginning to end.
The film does a good job of not wasting any time and most of the serious moments are kept to a minimum in favor of heist scenes or action.

A Highly recommended Film this Summer!

Ratings: 5 STARS!

Movie Review: THOR 3D

Synopsis:

The epic adventure THOR spans the Marvel Universe from present day Earth to the mystical realm of Asgard. At the center of the story is The Mighty Thor, a powerful but arrogant warrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. As a result, Thor is banished to Earth where he is forced to live among humans. When the most dangerous villain of his world sends its darkest forces to invade Earth, Thor learns what it takes to be a true hero.-- (C) Paramount Pictures

Distributor:Paramount Pictures
Directed By: Kenneth Branagh
Written By: Ashley Edward Miller, Zack Stentz, Don Payne

Starring:

Chris Hemsworth as Thor
Natalie Portman as Jane Foster
Stellan Skarsgård as Dr. Erik Selvig
Colm Feore as Laufey

REVIEW:

Marvelous and able Plot... The story can stand still even though narration from how it all began is lacking. Thanks to tidbits of humors and feel-good moments that maintained the viewers from its seat all throughout the film.

Great Visual Effects and Production Design. The film has really invested much on Post Production so as referring to CGI effects. I really loved the place of the Frost Giants. The movie balances the thrills of a summer blockbuster with tender romance and broad comedy.

Casting was also good. THOR was just a perfect resemblance of a quite arrogant and rebellious immortal figure with very masculine and manly over-all look. Indeed, a star-making central performance from Chris Hemsworth. Other supporting casts were also good enough to maintain the right excitement and thrill of the whole film.

Generally action packed, well designed, and serious without taking itself too seriously. This was a fun film with an excellent cast and a solid storyline.

It may not be the greatest Marvel Film and adaptation but I bet it would be far better than other Avenger Films.

Ratings: 4 STARS