Another Thank You Message

   Hey everyone so yes much like last year I'm making another thank you message to you guys. Why? I just feel like you guys deserve it for stopping by. Simple as that. I just take enjoyment knowing all of you are interested in what I have to say about a old and current movies or my other segments such as What You Probably Didn't Know About, Raiders of The Lost Media, and other things. Thanks for all of that. I wish I could express my gratefulness any other way other than these thank you messages but it's all I could do. So I hope all of you are getting ready for next year because I know I am. And let me tell it's going to be film review heavy. Lots and lots and lots of movie reviews.





State of The Project (Dec 15th - Jan 3rd)




Dec 15th - Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Review



Dec 17th - A Look Back at Mary Poppins (1964)



Dec 20th - Mary Poppins Returns Review



Dec 22nd - Aquaman Review



Dec 24th - Aquaman Easter Eggs



Dec 31st - Another Thank You Message



Jan 3rd - I'm Getting Rid of State of The Project








NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!

Aquaman Easter Eggs

WARNING!: THIS POST CONTAINS SPOILERS. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!





Hi guys and yes I am doing an easter egg post despite saying my Avengers: Infinity War easter egg post was going to be my last one for the year. But then I did a little bit of thinking and then I decided not to do it then I decided to do a couple months later. But enough of the "crisis" I faced let me tell you about some of the easter eggs I noticed in Aquaman.








Arthur has an opening narrations about his mom and dad (Thomas and Atlanna) meeting. His narration is a quote from Jules Verne.








In the movie we see that the Curry family has a golden retriever. In the comics (more specifically  the New 52 in Aquaman Vol.7 #3) Arthur adopted a homeless dog and named it "Aquadog". Whether this is the same thing or something similar in the movie is never explained.









When Mera meets up with Arthur and his dad she mentions on he was in the fight to stop Steppenwolf's invasion. This is a clear reference from Justice League.








When Aquaman is using his summing powers you can a vuu-vuu-vuu sound along with circles. A clear nod to when his powers are in use both from the comics and the classic cheesy show Super Friends.









When Black Manta is upgrading his gear, he's helmet's lasers go off and he says "I'm gonna need a bigger helmet". This little line is a reference to Jaws.







Orm aka Ocean Master has had a numerous different origins but his origin in the movie is based on his New 52 story. The biggest explain of this being his name "Ocean Master" is not a codename but a title he must earn.








Another thing that's taking from the New 52 era of DC is when Orm send a title wave to the surface world. This is a nod to when Orm did the same thing during the "Throne of Atlantis" storyline.








During the film we're given a history of Atlantis. This history lesson is very reminiscent to the previous history lessons to Man of Steel and Wonder Woman.








When Arthur is captured and meets Orm for the first time, Orm brings up what the surface dwellers are during to the surface. He conjures up images of them being a familiar looking oil rig. Whether this is the same oil rig from Man of Steel isn't certain.









At one point during the movie we see Dr. Stephen Shin's newspaper clippings. One of them being from Coast City. Coast City is the home of Green Lantern.








When Arthur finally arrives to Atlantis Mera says they need to take her ship. The pair goes to a shipping container. When Mera and Arthur take the ship if you look closely at the debris you can see an Annabelle doll.






During the scene when Arthur gets the trident he puts it right in front of his face. The shot is clearly taking from Aquaman Vol.8 #30 cover.








We get a special cameo appear by one of James Wan's friends Leigh Whannell. For any of you don't know Leigh Whannell helped James Wan write the scripts for 2004's Saw and 2010's Insidious. He's the Australian pilot.








The final shot is Aquaman swimming to the surface. This shot is very similar to when Superman flew so fast he broke the sound barrier back in Man of Steel.








So that's going to do it for my easter eggs post of Aquaman. I hoped you enjoyed it. Until my next post enjoy the rest of your day. And if any of you are celebrating Christmas I hope you're having a great Christmas Eve and I hope tomorrow you all have a very Merry Christmas.

State of The Project (Dec 6th - Dec 31st)




Dec 6th - Cinematic Disasters - A Christmas Story 2



Dec 15th - Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Review



Dec 17th - A Look Back at Mary Poppins (1964)



Dec 20th - Mary Poppins Returns Review



Dec 22nd - Aquaman Review



Dec 24th - Aquaman Easter Eggs



Dec 31st - Another Thank You Message







NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!

Aquaman Review

Aquaman is comic book movie based on the DC Comics' character of the same name. The movie is the sixth installment in the growing DC Extended Universe (aka the DCEU). Aquaman is produced by Warner Bros. Pictures, DC Entertainment, Cruel and Unusual Films, and Mad Ghost Productions and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. The film is written by David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick and Will Beall and directed by James Wan.



The story is Arthur Curry feels as though he doesn't deserve to be the King of Atlantis because he is a man from two different worlds. Later on Mera delivers horrible news to Arthur, his half-brother Orm is declaring war on the surface world. Now Arthur must challenge Orm to a fight that will determine who is the rightful King of Atlantis and decide the fate of the surface.

Initial Reaction



Now despite all the complications surrounding Justice League (by the way #ReleaseTheSnyderCut) I was still looking forward to the DCEU's next installment, which I knew was Aquaman. When I saw the first trailer I was in awe from what I saw. I had full faith in James Wan and his vision for this character. By as per usual I didn't hype myself up too much in fear that I'll be disappointed. But that still didn't mean I wasn't aboard for the ride this movie was going to give me.





Cons



My only real issue with the film was Black Manta. Now no he wasn't an awful villain or Yahya Abdul-Mateen II has a terrible performance. The problem is his development was rushed. It went from here's his reason why he hates Aquaman, here's him building his suit, and here's him fighting Aquaman. Hopefully if there's a sequel (which will most likely happen what with the positive buzz and the box office) they'll give Manta more development.







Middle Ground



I've got nothing to say. So let's move on.








Pros



The thing I absolutely loved about Aquaman was the world of Atlantis. The visuals for Atlantis was pure candy. I couldn't take my eyes off it. The special effects artist did a fantastic job giving Atlantis a beautiful look and James Wans did a fantastic job showcasing it. The other aspect you'll love about the movie is the performances. Everyone was great but I felt like it was Patrick Wilson who had the best. His acting for Orm/Ocean Master was spot on. Speaking of Ocean Master, he's an awesome villain. Not only was he brutal but at the same time he has a good reason for his war on the surface world. Now to talk about Arthur Curry/Aquaman. I already liked his character but his solo movie definitely made him one of my favorites in the DCEU. The reason being his arc. We really feel bad for him because he's an outsider both to Atlantis and the surface world. Another reason to like his arc is because though out the movie he really grows as a character. Now to talk about the humor. I liked it. There wasn't too much of it and there wasn't too little. The humor was nicely balanced. The final thing I'll give Aquaman credit for is the action. Holy crap! The action to this film was awesome. The best action sequence was the war at the end. It looked like something you would see out of a Star Wars movie.





If you want a big spectacular epic adventure movie, Aquaman is the film you need to see. The special effects are gorgeous, the performances are great (mostly Patrick Wilson), Ocean Master is a amazing villain, Arthur's arc, and nicely placed jokes, and insane action. The only downside is Black Manta is very rushed.





My final rating is Great






State of The Project (Dec 3rd - Dec 24th)



Dec 3rd - Classic Film Night - A Christmas Story Review



Dec 6th - Cinematic Disasters - A Christmas Story 2



Dec 15th - Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Review



Dec 17th - A Look Back at Mary Poppins (1964)



Dec 20th - Mary Poppins Returns Review



Dec 22nd - Aquaman Review



Dec 24th - Aquaman Easter Eggs







NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!

Mary Poppins Returns Review

Mary Poppins Returns is musical fantasy film and the sequel to the 1964 classic Mary Poppins. The movie is produced by Walt Disney Pictures, Lucamar Productions, and Marc Platt Productions and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. Mary Poppins Returns is written by David Magee and directed by Rob Marshall.

The story is in the 1930s in London. Michael and Jane who are now grown up but Michael has sadly suffered a personal loss. One day after many years Mary Poppins has come back into their lives. Joined by Mary's friend and an eccentric cousin Mary is hoping to bring joy back into Michael and Jane's lives.

Initial Reaction

I'm going to be completely honest. I wasn't really looking forward to this movie mainly because I don't think anybody wanted a sequel to Mary Poppins. I didn't watch any trailers nor did I follow them on Twitter like I do with most movies I'm looking forward to. But instead of not going to see it for myself I decided to give the movie a chance.

Cons

I've got nothing to say. So let's move on.

Middle Ground

I've got nothing to say. So let's move on.

Pros

One thing to enjoy from the film is from the very beginning you get a sense of nostalgia. Rob Marshall really wanted you to feel like you're in an old school Disney film even though it was made in 2018. The other part of Mary Poppins Returns to love is the music. The music is just as good as the first movie. My favorites are The Cover is Not a Book and Trip a Little Light Fantastic. Now a musical also needs good dance numbers. And there just wonderful. I couldn't keep my eyes off those scenes. They were just wonderful. Emily Blunt's performance as Mary Poppins is really good. She can at times be Julie Andrews but what sets her performance apart from Andrews' is Blunt's performance is she has a little bit of an edge to her. The other performance is Lin-Manuel Miranda as Jack. His character is just as charming as Dick Van Dyke's performance as Bert.

Mary Poppins Returns is a worthy continuation to the first film. There's a great sense of nostalgia, the songs are wonderful, the dance sequence are fun to watch, and Blunt and Miranda's performances are top notch.

My final rating is A Must Watch

State of The Project (Nov 22nd - Dec 22nd)

Nov 22nd - Ralph Breaks the Internet Review

Dec 3rd - Classic Film Night - A Christmas Story Review

Dec 6th - Cinematic Disasters - A Christmas Story 2

Dec 15th - Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Review

Dec 17th - A Look Back at Mary Poppins (1964)

Dec 20th - Mary Poppins Returns Review

Dec 22nd - Aquaman Review

NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!

A Look Back at Mary Poppins (1964)

Mary Poppins is a 1964 musical fantasy based on P.L. Travers' Mary Poppins series. The movie was produced by Walt Disney Pictures and distributed by Buena Vista Distribution. Mary Poppins was written by Bill Walsh and Don DaGradi and directed by Robert Stevenson.



The story is a father and mother have had enough of their unruly children Jane and Michael. After their father sends in an advertisement for a nanny Mary Poppins arrives at their door step. While Mary is disciplining the children to help the family with their dynamic, Mary and the kids have wonderful adventures along the way.

• Negatives

I've got nothing to say. So let's move on.

• Mix

I've got nothing to say. So let's move on.

• Positives

One thing I never noticed when I watched this as a kid is there's a very subtle message. That message being fun and imagination is good but at the same time you still need to pay attention to your responsibility. In matter if anything the film tells the story of comprise. You can have fun and work hard at the same or if your really creative do mix bag of both.

Another thing that still keeps the film a classic is you really get into the adventure the character's are getting into. I've scene this film about three times (twice as a kid and once as an adult) and each time I still got sucked into it. Each viewing was just as enjoyable as the next.

Now on to our characters. Let's start off with Mary Poppins herself. Yes she is quote "the perfect nanny". She's able to do no wrong. Now yes that would make her a Mary Sue but that didn't make a bad character. She was still entertaining while at the same time being the films message to a full circle and while also still being human. Then we have Bert. I like Bert. He's the type of character who despite being an adult still stays tune with his inner child. So he and along with Mary Poppins bring a lot of whimsical moments to the movie. Then we have our others characters Jane and Michael I thought they were going to be very annoying kids but there's a lot more to them than that. The whole reason they act out is because their insecure because of their father not allowing fun in the household. Also once again there was something I didn't notice as a kid but an adult. And that's despite being part of the same story Jane and Michael are not the same character. Both of them have their own personalities.

Mary Poppins contains scenes of animation and it's quite amazing. Seriously that whole animation sequence is definitely highlight of the film. The animation is flawless with the cartoon characters. That's really all I can say you have to watch it for yourself. My words don't do it enough justice.

Another thing Mary Poppins contains is great performances. Julie Andrews does a fantastic job as the character. Then we have Dick Van Dyke as Bert (who I forgot to mention is my favorite). He's performance as him is great. He definitely brings a lot of charm to the character. Then we have Karen Dotrice and Matthew Garber as Jane and Michael. Their acting is just as good the adults. They have a lot of range for just being children.

The final thing I need to praise the movie for is the soundtrack. All I really need to say is yes. Yes the music in Mary Poppins is a classic. And much like the animation my words do it no justice. Go watch the movie and enjoy have single musical performance in the movie.

Mary Poppins is without a doubt not only Walt Disney's crowning achievement but Disney's crowning achievement. The message about responsibility and fun is handled to a perfect ten. Even when seeing the film multiple times you'll still get into the adventure the characters are on, the characters are all wonderful, the animation is beautiful, the performances are all amazing, and the music is a timeless classic.

My final rating is A Must Watch

State of The Project (Nov 19th - Dec 20th)




Nov 19th - A Look Back at Wreck-It Ralph (2012)



Nov 22nd - Ralph Breaks the Internet Review



Dec 3rd - Classic Film Night - A Christmas Story Review



Dec 6th - Cinematic Disasters - A Christmas Story 2



Dec 15th - Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Review



Dec 17th - A Look Back at Mary Poppins (1964)



Dec 20th - Mary Poppins Returns Review






NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Review

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a computer-animated comic book film based on the Marvel character Miles Morales/Ultimate Spider-Man. The movie is produced by Sony Pictures Animation, Columbia Pictures, and Marvel Entertainment and distributed by Sony Pictures Releasing. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is written by Phil Lord and Rodney Rothman and directed by Bob Persichetti, Rodney Rothman, and Peter Ramsey.



The story is Miles Morales has gotten the same Spider abilities that Peter Parker the former Spider-Man had. In the classic Spider-Man mold Miles has to balance being a high school student and being a superhero. One day he meets a Peter Parker from another dimension. Together they along with other Spider-Men from the Spider-Verse must stop a threat that if they fail none of them will be able to go home.

Initial Reaction



Now I was fully invested in this film when the first trailer dropped. Judging by the trailers this could be one of the most interesting Spider-Man films put up on the big screen. Now yes I still remained skeptical that way if the film sucked I didn't bring myself down. But none the less I was fully pumped for this movie.





Cons



I've got nothing to say. So let's move on.









Middle Ground



One thing that could have used a little more work on is the main villain Kingpin. While he does have a pretty good motivation for his plan he's overall character was standard. He really could have been just slightly more fleshed out like our heroes.








Pros



Now this film has been receiving praise for it's animation. Does it deserve it. Oh yes it does. The animation is stunning. A few aspect to love about the animation is each Spider hero are rendered differently, when a character toss something to another you can see a little line when said object is in their hand, and just some many other big and small details. One thing that took me by surprise was the film's darker moments. I mean we see on-screen deaths. It's not anything graphic like a horror film or a rated-r comic book movie but it still was shocking to see. While there are dark moments but at the same time we get humorous moments. Seriously there were some great moments that had me balling. Another part of the movie to enjoy is the easter eggs. I really had funny spotting some of those. My final praise for the film is Miles' arc. Throughout the movie he has to learn to control his powers whether it be Peter teaching him or figures it out himself. It definitely it's perfect automatically.





Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is definitely one of my favorites. It has great animation, dark moments, funny moments, fun easter eggs to spot, and Miles' arc. The only thing that could use more work was Kingpin's character.





My final rating is Great






State of The Project (Nov 15th - Dec 17th)




Nov 15th - Change of Plans



Nov 19th - A Look Back at Wreck-It Ralph (2012)



Nov 22nd - Ralph Breaks the Internet Review



Dec 3rd - Classic Film Night - A Christmas Story Review



Dec 6th - Cinematic Disasters - A Christmas Story 2



Dec 15th - Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Review



Dec 17th - A Look Back at Mary Poppins (1964)






NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!

Cinematic Disasters - A Christmas Story 2

A Christmas Story 2 is a 2012 straight-to-DVD comedy film and the sequel to 1983's A Christmas Story. The movie is produced by Hollywood Media Bridge and Telvan Productions and distributed by Warner Premiere. A Christmas Story 2 was written by Nat Mauldin and directed by Brian Levant.



The story is Ralphie who is now a teenager has moved away from childish gifts such as a Red Ryder air rifle to wanting a car for Christmas. One day Ralphie accidentally destroys a car and has to pay for the damages. Now Ralphie and his friends must get jobs in order to pay back the car lot manager.

My Thoughts

One thing I got to complain about with this film is it's mere existence. Did anyone ANYONE demand A Christmas Story 2? Because last time I checked everyone was pretty satisfied with the first movie just fine. I mean just watch the trailer does anything about it say "your are definitely in for a good time".

If you now have a feeling of "Wow! That was painful to watch". Well I feel your pain guys. I feel YOUR pain.

Another thing I hate about this movie is it's narrator. I know they couldn't have gotten Jean Shepherd because he sadly passed away in 1999. But could they have gotten someone who sounded similar to him? The new narrator sounds like Adam West but if he was bored out of his mind.

The other aspect of the movie that is really awful is Ralphie. He has so many creepy moments. Now yes he did have questionable moments in the first movie such as him rubbing the leg lamp. But in this movie he's questionable moments are pushed up to 11. He has this crush on a girl named Drucilla. One moment in the film during music class he sniffs her hair and then he fantasizes about them being married. While he's doing this it looks like he's getting aroused. I'm not joking about this folks. Even Freddy Kruger would being say this guys creepy.

Then we have one of the many miscast in film. And it's Daniel Stern as the Old Man. Because this

Totally looks exactly like this

Not to mention but they completely didn't understand this character. For instance in A Christmas Story it was firmly established that he loves turkey a "turkey junkie" if you will. So that basically means I'll do anything for turkey. But in this movie when the turkey cost 40 cents a pound he won't buy it. Also he's a complete jerk. Yeah the Old Man in the first movie was flawed but here's the thing and this one is important HE WAS STILL LIKABLE! A Christmas Story 2's Old Man is an asshole from beginning to end with no redeeming qualities whatsoever.

The other problem with this movie is Ralphie's fantasies. Despite being a teenage boy he sure doesn't have realistic daydreams. Here's a complete I listed

- Saving Drucilla from a Nazi.

- Going to prison and getting hung over the car he slightly destroyed.

- Getting praised by Franklin D. Roosevelt for being an amazing employee at a mall.

This would make sense if you know was still a kid because kid's imaginations are suppose be this crazy and nonsensical. He only has one ONE daydream that's logical and that's him driving his new car with his dream girl Drucilla.

Oh and speaking of Drucilla what does Ralphie see in her? We know nothing about her and what Ralphie finds so attractive about her. And I do believe in this whole movie she only says two lines. One was in Ralphie's fantasy and the other is at the end of the movie. Why should we care if Ralphie and her become a couple if she's barely in the film.

So the main plot in this movie is Ralphie has to make $85 dollars to pay for the damages to the car he destroyed. Then after thinking very very very VERY hard about this he comes up with the brilliant idea of him and his friends getting jobs. I bring this up because the movie made this out to be some sort of big deal. Like why is this such a big and grand epiphany. Shouldn't that have being the most obvious choice? Ralphie kinds of a dumbass in the movie.

Then we come to our next problem with this movie and that's it's recycling jokes from the first movie. One them being Flick getting his tongue stuck. Now I want you to look back at this scene from the first Christmas Story.

Now Flick is screaming like crazy. He is basically traumatized for life from that experience. Least that's my view point of the situation because had that ever happened to me as a kid that's what I would have done. Now here's a clip from A Christmas Story 2 with pretty much the same gag.

Why?! Why would Flick do that after what happened to him several years ago!? Also he's like what in his mid-teens? Why would a boy his age want to do that. And it's that just a lovely image for the Christmas season. Seeing a boy get his lips nearly ripped off. Like I said they only reason for this joke was the first movie did it. Hell earlier in the movie when Ralph breaks the car he says "oh fudge".

Now for every trope in a bad comedy sequel to a good movie is high jinks. What happens is Ralphine, Flick, and Schwartz get jobs at a mall and despite doing everything wrong they surprisingly don't get fired. Here's some of the stuff that happened

- Wrapping presents for the customers one of which has a baby and you wrapped up the baby possibly suffocating it.

- Destroy a mannequin, accidentally fling a shoe so hard it destroys a pyramid of drinking glasses, and spray yourself in the eyes with perfume.

- Stand-in as elves for Santa only for that to somehow result in a fight between Flick and Schwartz.

And that last one was funny because during that time Flick and Schwartz are going at it, Ralphie says "Guys are you crazy?! You're gonna get a us fired!" Are you sure about that Ralphie! Are you sure you're gonna get fired! For crying out loud you and your friends nearly killed a baby and you still kept your jobs!

Now I'm gonna end it because for the rest of the movie it's just more forced humor and a predictable ending because well...the first movie had a happy ending.

So that was A Christmas Story 2 and it's everything we expect from a terrible sequel to a beloved classic. It repeats things that the first movie did, the performances aren't any better, there's no charming characters or moments, and really really REALLY awful comedy.

My final rating is Destroy It!

State of The Project (Nov 10th - Nov 17th)

Nov 10th - The Grinch Review

Nov 15th - Change of Plans

Nov 19th - A Look Back at Wreck-It Ralph (2012)

Nov 22nd - Ralph Breaks the Internet Review

Dec 3rd - Classic Film Night - A Christmas Story Review

Dec 6th - Cinematic Disasters - A Christmas Story 2

Dec 17th - A Look Back at Mary Poppins (1964)

NOTE: THIS SCHEDULE COULD CHANGE BECAUSE MY FRIEND BRIAN MIGHT TAKE ME TO SEE SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE THAT'S IF FINALS DON'T GET IN THE WAY. NOW IF I DON'T HAVE A REVIEW FOR SPIDER-VERSE I'LL KEPT MY REVIEWS OF BOTH MARY POPPINS FILMS AND A REVIEW OF AQUAMAN.

Classic Film Night - A Christmas Story

A Christmas Story is a 1983 comedy film based on Jean Shepherd's semi-fictional 1966 book In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash. The Christmas classic was produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and distributed by MGM/UA Entertainment Co. The movie was written by Jean Shepherd, Leigh Brown, and Bob Clark and directed by Bob Clark.



The story is young Ralphie wants his ideal Christmas present, a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. However he's constantly denied. But Ralphie is determined to get his present. While doing so he has to dodge a schoolyard bully, annoying dogs from his neighbor, and other stuff along the way. Ralphie can only hope to make it till Christmas.

My Thoughts




One thing that's alright in the movie is adult Ralphie's narration. There are bits were it's entertaining and helps the story but other times it's kind of unnecessary. Like when it's Christmas day adult Ralphie says "It was Christmas morning". He says this as we can clearly see it.



Another thing I loved about the movie is it really does look like it takes place in the 1940s. And they don't make so obvious and blatant. They just give you that idea by clothing, the way vehicles look, and anything else that let's you know it's the 1940s.



The other aspect of A Christmas Story you'll enjoy is the comedic bits. There were a lot of funny moments in this film. My favorite and most likely everybody else's is Ralphie's daydreams. There so over the top that it's perfect. Mainly because yeah this is what a kid would think about certain things in life.



A Christmas Story also has great performances. The actors do such a good job playing their respected characters that there's no way you can replicate their performances. The best performance in my opinion is Darren McGavin as The Old Man. He was just perfect in the role.



The final thing I'll say about A Christmas Story is when re-watching it I never realized how much I loved these characters. Well besides Scut cause he's a bully but everyone else you'll like. Hell you'll even like The Old Man because even thought he's a little bit rough around the edges the film shows that he does have a heart.








A Christmas Story is definitely one of the many classic Christmas films out there. The movie looks like it is in the 1940s, there's a lot of funny moments, the performances are great, and you'll love the characters. The only thing I think that's still entertaining but should have been toned down is adult Ralphie's narration.





My final rating is Great





Well that's going to do it for this review. Unfortunately next time I'll be reviewing one of the most unnecessary sequels in the history of unnecessary sequels A Christmas Story 2. But until then enjoy getting ready for the holiday season.





State of The Project (Nov 8th - Dec 6th)




Nov 8th - What You Probably Didn't Know About Dr. Seuss



Nov 10th - The Grinch Review



Nov 15th - Change of Plans



Nov 19th - A Look Back at Wreck-It Ralph (2012)



Nov 22nd - Ralph Breaks the Internet Review



Dec 3rd - Classic Film Night - A Christmas Story Review



Dec 6th - Cinematic Disasters - A Christmas Story 2






NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!

Ralph Breaks the Internet Review

Ralph Breaks the Internet is a 3D animated comedy and the sequel to 2012's Wreck-It Ralph as well as the 57th Disney feature film. The movie is produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Walt Disney Animation Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. It's written by Phil Johnson and Pamela Ribon and directed by Rich Moore and Phil Johnson.



The story is it's been six years after the events of the first film. One day at the arcade the steering wheel to Sugar Rush breaks. In doing so Mr. Litwak is forced to unplug the game. With no home the residents of Sugar Rush have to find a new place to live. Ralph and Vanellope set off on an adventure to find a new steering wheel by going into the internet. During this adventure Ralph and Vanellope meet a lot of interesting characters.

Initial Reaction

Now along with everyone else I was really excited for this movie. Mainly because I loved the first movie so much. The movie definitely had me hyped what with the trailers. But at the same I was worried because well when you go on their official Twitter account they have this very cringey thing called Ways to Break the Internet. And it made me think we could have a repeat of The Emoji Movie. But I remained hopeful because I severely doubt Disney would let that happen even if you take in account those terrible direct-to-dvd sequels.

Cons



The one and only thing I didn't like about Ralph Breaks the Internet is the post-credit scene. It basically sets up a teaser for a very much anticipated Disney sequel only for it to be a joke regrading a very much outdated meme. I'm talking before the word "meme" was even a thing.






Middle Ground



I've got nothing to say. Let's move on.






Pros



One aspect of the film I was thankful for was it didn't feel like a whole product placement for the internet. Now yes there was a couple of instances like that, but it was so short and sweet you won't even care. Hell most of the time when Ralph and Vanellope went to a website it was just for a punchline nothing else. Speaking of punchlines this movie had me laughing. I'm not going to give away any jokes because this is a spoiler free review but my favorite funny moment was a musical number that was just brilliant. Now I won't harper too much on the animation mainly because I feel like I'll just repeating what I said in my Wreck-It Ralph. So all I'll quickly say is yes the animation is wonderful especially the world built around the internet. The other thing to enjoy is the message about not letting your insecurities get to you. It was a heartfelt message and one I feel like people might connect to. Another thing to praise Ralph Breaks the Internet for is it's bittersweet ending. Once again I won't give it away. I like it because it wasn't the big predictable happy ending I was expecting. My final positive credit for the movie is the mid-credit scene. It was hilarious and definitely worth waiting for, even if you did see it in one of the trailers.






Ralph Breaks the Internet is thankful nothing like 2017's The Emoji Movie. The internet plot isn't one big piece of product placement, the humor is great, the animation is top notch, the moral about insecurities was handled nicely, the bittersweet ending really helped the movie stay away from being predictable, and the mid-credit scene gets two thumbs up. My only issue was the post-credit scene. It really should have taken a page out of Venom and just promote the company's next flick. Sure I still would have felt like it was a commercial but it wouldn't have been better than an outdated joke.




My final rating is Great





Well that's going to do it the month of November. Come back next time in December for the Christmas season.





State of The Project (Nov 5th - Dec 3rd)



Nov 5th - My Aquaman Easter Eggs Post is Coming Back



Nov 8th - What You Probably Didn't Know About Dr. Seuss



Nov 10th - The Grinch Review



Nov 15th - Change of Plans



Nov 19th - A Look Back at Wreck-It Ralph (2012)



Nov 22nd - Ralph Breaks the Internet Review



Dec 3rd - Classic Film Night - A Christmas Story Review






NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!

A Look Back at Wreck-It Ralph (2012)

Wreck-It Ralph is a 2012 3D animated comedy film and the 52nd Disney animated feature film. The movie was produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Walt Disney Animation Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. Wreck-It Ralph was written by Rich Moore, Phil Johnson, and Jim Reardon and directed by Rich Moore.

The story is an arcade villain named Wreck-It Ralph of the popular game Fix-It Felix Jr. has had enough of being the bad guy. One day Ralph is pushed to his limit and sets off to prove he too can be a hero. However due to Ralph being gone Fix-It Felix must bring Ralph back before their arcade game is unplugged and they lose their home forever.

• Negatives

One thing I didn't get invested into as much as some people to is the romance between Fix-It Felix Jr. and Sergeant Tamora. It just felt sudden and by the end of the movie there wasn't really a build up for them to be a couple.

• Mix

I've got nothing to say. So let's move on.

• Positives

The thing I most enjoyed about Wreck-It Ralph is yes it is about video games but it never felt like the film was being product placement. Like when Ralph meets Q*bert. Ralph isn't like "Oh My Gosh! It's Q*bert from Q*bert!" and then riddles off why he's so famous.

Speaking of Q*bert if you're a gamer you'll definitely get a kick out all the video game references/easter eggs the film just throws at you. There's nods to old games such as Donkey Kong and nods to newer games like first-person shooter games most likely Halo. Hell the movie also has cameos from Kano from Mortal Kombat and Cyril from House of the Dead. Only they don't actually call them that they change their names. Probably so it's not a direct reference to games that a notorious for being very gruesome.

Another thing to love about Wreck-It Ralph is the characters. Mostly Ralph himself and Vanellope. You really get invested in Ralph's journey to show that he can also be a good guy aka the hero as suppose to his typical role of being the villain. Now at first Vanellope came off as your typical annoying character who the writers think they were making funny but as we learn more about her and her goals, she becomes one of your favorites.

Wreck-It Ralph also has a pretty good villain that being bad guy being King Candy. He starts out being bad but once things start to real crazy he becomes down right evil. I won't say anymore than that. It's best just to watch the movie for yourself to see what I'm talking about.

The final thing I'll applaud the film for is the animation. I think it goes without saying but Disney has being pushing out some amazing 3D animated films (without having Pixar's help). One detail I never noticed watching the film the first time around is there's a lot more detail to it. For instance there's a fictional game in here called Hero's Duty if you look closely the animators put a lots a details in the soldiers armor including having it all scratched up.

Wreck-It Ralph is without out a doubt of my many favorite Disney films. It has lots of video games references without feeling like product placement, the easter eggs to other video games is a nice touch, you'll love all the characters by the end of the film, King Candy is a great villain, and the animation is flawless. The only downside is the rushed relationship between Felix and Tamora.

My final rating is Great

So that's going to do it for me. Came back Thursday for my review of Ralph Breaks the Internet. Until then enjoy the rest of your day or look at my other post on this blog.

State of The Project (Nov 1st - Nov 22nd)

Nov 1st - Update Regrading The Road to Dark Phoenix

Nov 5th - My Aquaman Easter Eggs Post is Coming Back

Nov 8th - What You Probably Didn't Know About Dr. Seuss

Nov 10th - The Grinch Review

Nov 15th - Change of Plans

Nov 19th - A Look Back at Wreck-It Ralph (2012)

Nov 22nd - Ralph Breaks the Internet Review

NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!

Change of Plans

    Hey everyone yup it's another update post. Only this time unlike the Road to Dark Phoenix and Aquaman easter eggs post this one wasn't planned. So in my review of The Grinch I mentioned I that my theater (Salem Twin Cinema) wasn't going to show Ralph Breaks the Internet because they were going to make room for the newest Robin Hood film. Well apparently my theater likes to screw with people (I'm not saying this with a pissed attitude I actually find the situation I'm in pretty funny) because I guess despite having the poster for 2018's Robin Hood up as a coming soon poster for a number of months they decide to switch for a more popular Disney sequel. So originally I was going to have a new Is It True? and Raiders of The Lost Media as a back up plan instead of reviews for Wreck-It Ralph and Ralph Breaks the Internet. But now I've decide to switch. Replacing the Is It True? and Raiders of The Lost Media you'll now look forward to reviews of Wreck-It Ralph and Ralph Breaks the Internet. That's all I wanted to tell all of you because I would prefer it if you guys were updated on what's going that way you're not confused by what the State of The Project said previously. So anyway's you guys go have fun somewhere else, meanwhile for me I've got a lot of work to do.





State of The Project (Oct 29th - Nov 19th)



Oct 29th - Underrated Films - The Monster Squad Review



Nov 1st - Update Regrading The Road to Dark Phoenix



Nov 5th - My Aquaman Easter Eggs Post is Coming Back



Nov 8th - What You Probably Didn't Know About Dr. Seuss



Nov 10th - The Grinch Review



Nov 15th - Change of Plans



Nov 19th - A Look Back at Wreck-It Ralph (2012)






NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!

The Grinch Review

The Grinch (as known as Dr. Seuss' The Grinch) is a 3D animated Christmas comedy film. The movie is based on Dr. Seuss' 1957 story How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The movie is also the third adaptation following the 1966 TV special How the Grinch Stole Christmas! and the 2000 film of the same name starring Jim Carrey. The Grinch is produced by Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment and distributed by Universal Pictures.

The story is The Grinch has had enough of the Christmas season so he decides to hatch a scheme to steal Christmas from the residents of Whoville. What he doesn't know is Cindy Lou Who is on her own adventure and it could possibility ruin the Grinch's plans.

Initial Reaction

Now I'm going to be perfectly honest I had no intention of seeing this movie. In matter of fact my original plan was after I posted my Aquaman easter egg post announcement I was going to go on a break and come back just in time for Ralph Breaks the Internet. However I found out my theater wasn't going to show that film because they wanted to make room for Robin Hood starring Taron Egerton. So I decide to get rid of my break and see this movie. The other reason is I've seen this story before twice actually three times if you ever read the book. So what would be the point. But yet again I do like Illumination's work so I figured why not give it a try. After all those trailers did get a good laugh out of me.

Cons



I've got nothing to say so let's move on.





Middle Ground



Now one thing I read about for the reviews for The Grinch is the movie didn't add anything new. That's both a yes and a no. There are couple of new stuff that the writers added it's just yes they did keep somethings the same old same. New things just as The Grinch's reason for hating Christmas and the whole storyline involving Cindy and her mom. But at the same time we get the whole The Grinch's heart grew three sizes thing. Personally for me it's not a bad thing that they kept same stuff the same but some of the changes could have had a bigger effect on the film.





Pros



One thing to like about the movie is the animation. It's wonderfully done and very beautiful. Another thing I liked about the movie that I didn't expect to happen is Cindy Lou Who. Typically in The Grinch adaptations is she's all "Santy Claus". Yes her plot still revolves around that but what I'm talking about is this time they gave her more of a personality, as suppose to just cute little girl. The other thing the movie does what I thought worked was they did modernize things but not in the way that will make you shake your head. The new gadgets the filmmakers put in do look like something Dr. Seuss would make in his books. Benedict Cumberbatch plays our title character and he did a good. He played a very likeable Grinch. The final thing I'll say about The Grinch is the humor works. It wasn't anything that made me belly laugh but there were times when I laughed out loud, so that has to count for something.






The Grinch is definitely a passable movie but in all honesty you really don't have to rush in for this flick. While the story does feel like it wants to do something different it did feel like it was brought down because the writers still felt they had an obligation to keep somethings the same. What does help the film is it's amazing animation, Cindy's new personality, modernizing things but still keeping in a way Seuss would make it, Cumberbatch's performance, and the humor.




My final rating is Okay





State of The Project (Oct 25th - Nov 19th)




Oct 25th - Cinematic Disasters - Jaws: The Revenge



Oct 29th - Underrated Films - The Monster Squad Review



Nov 1st - Update Regarding The Road to Dark Phoenix



Nov 5th - My Aquaman Easter Eggs Post is Coming Back



Nov 8th - What You Probably Didn't Know About Dr. Seuss



Nov 10th - The Grinch Review



Nov 19th - Is It True? - Malcolm Grows Up to be Walter White





NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!

What You Probably Didn't Know About Dr. Seuss

So The Grinch will be arriving in theaters tomorrow and what better way to celebrate than tell you about the man who created the character himself Dr. Seuss. So let's begin.

1. Two of his books have been translated to Latin. The Cat in the Hat is "Cattus Petasatus" and How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is "Quomodo Invidiosulus Nomine Grinchus Christi Natalem Abrogaverit".

2. He once worked as a commercial artist and was known for his humorous drawings for Standard Oil products, he most famous being Flit bug spray.

3. One night while riding a train to get back to his home, who noticed a pompous stuffy-looking man with a hat on his head. Seuss what would happen if someone were to knock his hat off his head. He thought the man was so full of himself that there was probably another hat underneath the other hat as a replacement. This would inspire his book "The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins."

4. 2012's The Lorax was released on what would have been his 108th birthday.

5. Dr. Seuss was quite the recluse. He would often spend much of his time alone in his studio.

6. Four of his works can truly be political. The Lorax was a parable on short-sighted exploitation of natural resources, The Butter Battle Book was a commentary on the arms race, The Sneetches dealt with racism, and Yertle the Turtle was representing Adolf Hitler and the Third Reich.







7. Seuss (his mother's maiden) is pronounced to rhyme with "voice" not "loose" as people commonly do.







8. During World War I he was giving the nickname "The Kaiser" due to his German ancestry.







9. Although his famous for having morals in his stories, he usually doesn't have them on his mind when writing his books. He prefers to let the story grow out saying "A kid can see a moral coming a mile away".







10. In the late 80's Seuss wanted to make a movie based on his book "The Cat in The Hat". His choices for the the cat were Robin Williams, Steve Martian, John Candy, or Eddie Murphy. His book was finally made into a movie in 2003 but none of the actors he wanted were considered.







11. He was awarded his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Mar 11, 2004. The star was put there on what would have been his 100th birthday.







12. He was once a vocal voice of America First, a movement that wanted to keep America out of World War II. He drew numerous of political cartoons expression his belief.







13. He supposedly wrote "Green Eggs and Ham" on a bet with his publisher. Bennett Cerf (the publisher) bet Seuss couldn't write a book with only 50 words in it. This bet was made because The Cat in The Hat had 225 words.







14. Before working on children's books, he made sculptures of animals in the form of taxidermy. Some of these animal's surreal designs would later appear in his books.







15. His first book "And to Think I Saw It on Mulberry Street" was rejected by 20 publishers. The main reason for the rejections was the publishers thought that fantasy wasn't salable, the children's books written in verse were out of style, and that it lacked a mortal message.  Seuss angrily expressed to his wife "what's wrong with kids having fun reading without being preached at?" She cited that maybe for the rejections were because the book had cartoon-like drawings and the story might be seen as a way to encourage daydreaming and lying to one's parents.







Well that's going to do it for me. Come back next time for my review of the newest Dr. Seuss adaptation The Grinch. Until then enjoy your day or look at other things to read about on this blog.

State of The Project (Oct 22nd - Nov 10th)

Oct 22nd - Cinematic Disasters - Jaws 3-D

Oct 25th - Cinematic Disasters - Jaws: The Revenge

Oct 29th - Underrated Films - The Monster Squad Review

Nov 1st - Update Regrading The Road to Dark Phoenix

Nov 5th - My Aquaman Easter Eggs Post is Coming Back

Nov 8th - What You Probably Didn't Know About Dr. Seuss

Nov 10th - The Grinch Review

NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!

My Aquaman Easter Eggs Post is Coming Back

Yeah it's another update post folks. Now If any of you have no idea what I mean by this let me explain. Back in August I decided to cancel my Aquaman easter eggs post to make room for a review of the newest Transformers film Bumblebee. But then things happened. Mary Poppins Returns moved it's released date from December 24th to December 19th. Originally my schedule was Bumblebee on Dec 22nd and Aquaman on Dec 24th. However since Mary Poppins Returns changed I was left with a decision. Review both Marry Poppins films then a review of Aquaman then a review of Bumblebee. But I decided to cancel my review of Bumblebee (which I'm a little sad because I actually wanted to review a Transformers film) in favor of an easter eggs post of Aquaman.

So yeah that's all I wanted to say. Until next time enjoy the rest of your day.

State of The Project (Oct 20th - Nov 8th)




Oct 20th - Halloween (2018) Review



Oct 22nd - Cinematic Disasters - Jaws 3-D



Oct 25th - Cinematic Disasters - Jaws: The Revenge



Oct 29th - Underrated Films - The Monster Squad Review



Nov 1st - Update Regrading The Road to Dark Phoenix



Nov 5th - My Aquaman Easter Eggs Post is Coming Back



Nov 8th - What You Probably Didn't Know About Dr. Seuss





NOTE: IF ANYTHING CHANGES I WILL TELL YOU!