JR's Movie Reviews - SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME

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SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME

Year of Release: 2019

JR's Rating:  (8.7 out of 10, Satisfactory)

"Sigh of Relief After Endgame"

Note: I highly suggest you don't read my review if you haven't yet watched the movie.
SPOILERS AHEAD! 🚩

Spider-Man: Far From Home exudes Marvel class on creating a comical tale for the famed slinging superhero after all the events post-Endgame / post-Infinity War. With Iron Man's sacrifice comes media frenzy for a potential successor; Spider-Man, maybe? With all the pressure around, from Iron Man's death, Aunt May's knowing of Peter Parker's superhero alter ego to another villain up for battle, how will Spidey deal with challenges after "The Blip" when all he wanted was a decent teenage life to spend with his overly weird yet pretty crush.

While the Elementals were shown as destructive on the movie's trailers, Mysterio is the true new super villain that Spider-Man has to fight against in this film. Mysterio settles on fake saving the universe on a sinister attempt to fool Spidey and also gaining worldwide traction to move forward his plans. The problem with today's society relies on what news are real and not real without thinking their real ramifications may it be political, social or economical. It easily targets how people easily believe despite not delving further to the details. The real world threat of fake news is to be despised just as how we disliked what Mysterio was proliferating in this film.

The deal that Sony struck with Marvel Studios (currently owned by Disney) is one of the best decisions they made so recent making better Spider-Man films, both visually and narratively, than it's two "Amazing" predecessors whilst, if not surpassing, matching the three "Sam Raimi" original they made only with a more comedic and vibrant tone. Everything seems to follow Endgame with precision while giving due respect to the heroes of the past. Visual effects are aplenty and done masterful especially when the holograms and illusions are presented. Europe is a great choice for being ground zero of the movie, one to look forward are the colorful tulips from The Netherlands. While there are some direction I didn't like, acting was really spot-on. Tom Holland's take on Spider-Man is oh so amazing making the superhero franchise a must watch come future phases of the MCU.

JR's Movie Reviews - GODZILLA: KING OF THE MONSTERS

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GODZILLA: KING OF THE MONSTERS

Year of Release: 2019

JR's Rating:  (7.2 out of 10, Slightly Good)

"The Rise of the Titans"

Note: I highly suggest you don't read my review if you haven't yet watched the movie.
SPOILERS AHEAD! 🚩

Man playing god by supposedly releasing the same titans that ruled the earth for so long doesn't seem to be a good idea especially when they are very humongous and dangerous. Dr. Emma Russell and an eco-terrorist Alan Jonah believe otherwise. They believe the titans are man's last shot at rehabilitating a world of pollution and calamity that was caused by them. Things go out of order when a "Monster Zero" (Ghidorah) is set loose and instead causes a possible apocalypse of the planet. Despite initially viewed as a threat, Godzilla is entrusted by man to defeat and end this monster once and for all proving indeed he is the king of all monsters.

Releasing the titans into the world seems like a Pandora's Box of disaster yet with hope at the very end. That theory proves wrong when one of those they released isn't filled with any sign of hope after all. Man playing god has been contextualized as an ongoing moral issue up to today. Godzilla: King of the Monsters delves into that and makes us wonder how man's inquisitiveness might intervene with the natural and peaceful circle of life.

Godzilla: King of the Monsters did great on three things - cinematography, visual effects and sound. Else, everything didn't really do well for me. The story and screenplay seems lackluster and convoluted because much of the film focused on the battles of the titans. There was nothing to root for with the human characters leaving all our cheers for Godzilla (and Mothra). With that being said, watch Godzilla if you're for monsters fighting monsters or if you want to be awed by amazing visual effects not if you are looking for a substantial story.

JR's Movie Reviews - GODZILLA (2014)

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GODZILLA

Year of Release: 2014

JR's Rating:  (9.2 out of 10, Impressive)

"Long Live The King, The King Of The Monsters"

Note: I highly suggest you don't read my review if you haven't yet watched the movie.
SPOILERS AHEAD! 🚩

The sheer gigantic beast that is unlike no other, Godzilla is the epitome of destruction, predation and dominance. It doesn't know any ally but it maintains itself as the only king every man and monster should bow to. Man initially viewed him as a threat that man even wanted to kill him for good. But a monster that feeds on nuclear energy can't be defeated with the same weapons that man rely on for destruction. Many years later, another alpha predator makes its presence known. Godzilla rises back from hibernation to fight this MUTO (massive unidentified terrestrial organism) to eventually maintain balance and prove that he is indeed the King of the Monsters.

Godzilla, for me, seems like a symbolism of man's undying desire for destruction and dominance. It's a reference to the many wars and disasters we keep on flourishing to eventually maintain that peace and order. It feeds on nuclear radiation same as how we rely on it to win global conflicts. How we view Godzilla, as an inspiration or a threat, is up to us to distinguish because in the end man has always been the only alpha predator and alpha preserver.

Godzilla reincarnates the godlike beast for the modern-day cinema goer. It's humongous with a unique roar equally terrifying. The CGI to make everything go into motion is truly impressive. On another note, it doesn't fail on equally creating an empathetic family story to complement Godzilla's story. I enjoyed watching this film and it's the reason why I am looking forward to the upcoming movies in this MonsterVerse.

JR's Movie Reviews - ALADDIN (2019)

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ALADDIN

Year of Release: 2019

JR's Rating:  (9.0 out of 10, Impressive)

"Flying Through An Arabian Dream"

Note: I would avoid comparison with the original animated film. I treated the film as if I haven’t watched the animated classic.

Aladdin is your mischievous thief of Agrabah with hopes of feeding his necessities alongside his friend, Abu. Princess Jasmine is a desiring Sultan of Agrabah who takes difficulty at getting the respect of her father who wants her to marry a decent prince to eventually rule their nation. They aren't your idealistic couple but introduce the magical Genie to make magic happen. Enter a villain named Jafar to tense up their romance, how would their love conquer all odds?

I have to say, the Arabian tale of a pauper falling in love and desiring the hand of a powerful daughter of nobility is more than just a love story. It delves further on the question of power in terms of gender being antagonized by the misogynistic culture and politics that has been predominantly proliferated in this world. We see how opportunity is put into waste by traditional mindsets that blur decision-making. Aladdin places women empowerment at its forefront by making an abled and witty Jasmine as its postergirl for that particular advocacy.

Aladdin successfully recreates the classic it was based on creating some of the most extravagant, colorful and ambitious song numbers in their live-action properties. I enjoyed most especially those scenes when Genie introduces himself to Aladdin and when the Genie parades Prince Ali to Princess Jasmine. The CGI was superb on those. The "Speechless" number by Princess Jasmine is, however, the best. I was originally skeptical of the blue Will Smith genie from the movie's trailer because it felt a little bit off but Will done really good on interpreting the character. There are times though he overshadowed the titular character when the movie is titled Aladdin. I enjoyed the vibrant and bustling Eastern culture on this film while the love story between Aladdin and Jasmine was played. My only problem was the pacing and movement of direction that may sometimes feel uncomfortable and nauseating.

JR's Movie Reviews - POKÉMON: DETECTIVE PIKACHU

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POKÉMON: DETECTIVE PIKACHU

Year of Release: 2019

JR's Rating:  (8.9 out of 10, Satisfactory)

"My Heart Is Pounding With Excitement"

I always dreamt of a world full of Pokémon where they and man live in peace and harmony. My heart is pounding with excitement as I imagine the idea of having a Growlithe as a partner Pokémon while walking along streets and greeting my friends who also have a Pokémon buddy of their own. Lo and behold, welcome to Ryme City where you are free to have a Pokémon partner of your own. From the small Charmanders to the massive Gyarados, there's too much Pokémon to meet, to capture and to handle.

Tim Goodman, though, who once dreamt of being a Pokémon trader struggled with the realities of adulthood pursuing a career as an insurance salesman instead. On a twist of events, Tim would learn that his dad died from an accident. Pikachu, his father's Pokémon partner, pushes him to investigate on the crime eventually discovering a more evil intent ahead for both man and Pokémon.

It's a Pokémon trainer's dream to have everything Pokémon on screen. It's a joy naming each Pokémon that were shown on screen hoping even that a few of our favorite ones will be given screentime. How astounding the world was done made it felt like everything is genuinely realistic and existent. The CGI and design of the Pokémon universe were matched with real-time physics and environment that makes the experience as authentic as possible. Pokémon: Detective Pikachu is one of the best video game movie adaptations in film, a must watch especially if you're a Pokémon fanboy.

JR's TV Reviews - GAME OF THRONES, Seasons 1-8

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GAME OF THRONES, Seasons 1-8

Year of Release: 2011-2019

JR's Rating:  (9.8 out of 10, Impressive)
⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"Fire And Blood"

Putting politics and war at the forefront of poetry and artistry is just one of the many achievements this series has to offer. It’s a rare feat even for a TV series to create a massive fanbase last replicated by Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings and Star Wars. It’s a cultural phenomenon you can’t just miss. Game of Thrones isn't your typical chill or guilty pleasure series but rather it challenges human morals and principles to create an extraordinary experience in this generation of film and television.

Game of Thrones brings us to the not so prosperous nation of Westeros where the seven kingdoms is ruled and inhabited by several houses that may want a claim to the most powerful seat that is the Iron Throne. The most prominent houses include the Starks, the Lannisters, and the Targaryens, all are getting a shot to rule and command. When ruled by the wrong king or queen, however, chaos is sure to erupt within the entire realm, war is but bound to happen. How will the entire Westeros handle though when the real threat has been with them all along, an army that might surely erase what has been their history for so long. The Game of Thrones is but a game where living fights against the living and also the living against the dead.

The symbolic overthrow of power has always been a part of humanity for so long. Game of Thrones reflects how power ultimately makes good or bad of any individual who pursues it, how man's desire for power blinds them to the real social problems of economic and judicial inequality. Why I love watching the series is how relevant it is in today's modern politics when what has been taught to be gone in the past is still very much existent at present. Power is power and it resides where men shall and continue to believe. Political dynastry and patronage has always been a continuing problem, when all we trust on how good a leader is through their last name, their popularity and their luxury. As made evident in the series is how wisdom, character and story makes the best leader, the key to create a fruitful nation and a great way to design it. The reality sometimes is that the wisest one doesn't even want to lead in the first place and the one who wants it only desire for the immunity and perks that comes with being the most powerful man alive. I doubt you wouldn't engage in political dialogue after you watch Game of Thrones.

JR's TV Reviews - GAME OF THRONES, Season 8

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GAME OF THRONES, Season 8

Year of Release: 2019

JR's Rating:  (9.2 out of 10, Impressive)

"Winter Is Coming"

The final stretch looks rough but the battles against the dead and for the Iron Throne has been anticipated for so long. Power has always been a point of discussion, and weighing its consequences is a duty.

"When the snows fall and the white winds blow, the lone wolf dies, but the pack survives."
- said Sansa Stark to Arya Stark

Waging war against the dead is inconceivable but it idealizes the concept of death being the enemy of all. The difficulty of winning against death is in reality not possible but when everyone is up for one goal, the once impossible may become possible. Defeating the Night King has always been known from the onset of watching the series. It's one of the threats that glooms king and men in Westeros that without action may also mean their end. The dead was successfully withstood not without casualty. The end of the fight against the dead eventually starts the war for power.

"Love is more powerful than reason. We all know that. Love is the death of duty.
Sometimes, duty is the death of love"
- Jon Snow & Tyrion Lannister dialogue

Jon Snow, Cersei, Daenerys. These three we invested so much time and emotions (may it be love or hate) for so long. But when decisions are to be made, the living, the people, are what marks being a king or queen in the first place. The rise towards the top of dynasties come with a huge fall especially when all comes to naught. The abuse of power had threatened Westeros for so long and the end of the Iron Throne brings forth an enlightened leadership that is of the people, for the people, and by the people. Birthright doesn't really justify being good, wisdom is formed through experience and choice which are what makes a king. What better way to have a king than putting someone who already knows how it should be done. I guess that's a way to end it.

Technical wise, cinematography, direction and design were spot on. Narrative wise, I have to say this season could have been stretched out for 2-3 seasons separating the storylines for the fight against the dead and the fight for the Iron Throne. Everything we so loved about the series was cramped into 6 episodes not without paying tribute to many stories of the past. The last season is self-referential but the degree of parallelism and detail was intricate proving that indeed the Game of Thrones is a so powerful story that has it's modern day ramifications and worth. Chaos and fear may inspire good endings after all.

JR's TV Reviews - GAME OF THRONES, Season 7

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GAME OF THRONES, Season 7

Year of Release: 2017

JR's Rating:  (9.9 out of 10, Impressive)

⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"We Do Not Sow"

"There is only one war that matters, The Great War. And it is here."
said Jon Snow after showing a Wight to Cersei at King's Landing.

It has been a long way coming, the dead are now bound for Westeros. We had our first glimpse of them at the very first episode when members of the Night's Watch were attacked by the undead. We would visualize how large an army they really are when Samwell Tarly and Brandon Stark would see them at separate instances. This time, Jon Snow with a group of his men are bound to get just one wight to show proof to everyone that the threat is real. Catching the attention of both Queen Daenerys and Queen Cersei, the game towards the Iron Throne would seem to halt in preparation for the Army of the Dead. The question is would they drop arms against each other and instead raise it towards the real enemy. The Great War is bound to happen one way or another.

This season is intense as it builds the foundation for what will be the Long Night in the final season. Scores are settled as House Tyrell and House Martell would meet their demise leaving House Stark, House Targaryen and House Lannister at the game of thrones. If they win this war against the dead, what's to happen next? And how would the entire Westeros handle the reality that Jon Snow is indeed the more valid heir than Daenerys Targaryen and Cersei Lannister? All we can do is wait for these last two wars.

JR's TV Reviews - GAME OF THRONES, Season 6

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GAME OF THRONES, Season 6

Year of Release: 2016

JR's Rating:  (10 out of 10, Outstanding)

⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken"

"Kill the boy and let the man be born."
- Maester Aemon to Jon Snow

The great game is now and it's terrifying. The battle against the dead and towards the throne is finally going into motion. Behold, our beloved Jon Snow rises from the dead vengeful as ever, not just he avenges for his death but also for the entire North as he battles Ramsay Bolton for Winterfell. Down south in King's Landing, Cersei is about to kill all her enemies after being shamed by the Sparrows. Everything goes according to plan as she manages to burst the Sept of Baelor into flames. Meanwhile, outside Westeros, Queen Daenerys has fought for peace in Meereen. She would eventually form a large army comprising of Unsullied and Dothrakis while also creating alliances with the Greyjoys, Tyrells and Martells as she finally decides to go towards Westeros. We are on close guard on these three people - Jon Snow, Queen Daenerys and Queen Cersei - as the true battle in Westeros is now starting.

The first eight episodes build up tension in what will be two of the strongest in Game of Thrones, eventually these would set up the future battles towards the Army of the Dead and against the diabolical Cersei Lannister. Each episode keeps us hanging making us want for more and more and more. It's no doubt that Season 6 is the best the series has to offer. The "Battle of the Bastards" alone provides us a spectacular, action-packed ride that exceeds violence and rather triumphs over war films as it depicts a battle in the most legitimate and strategic medieval sense. It's well-choreographed with excellent direction and cinematography unmatched by the upcoming battles in the final season. The "The Winds of Winter", on the other hand, presents a poetic ending for your typical violent series going all theatrical and orchestral as we see a shamed Cersei gets her dramatic retribution but again not without casualty.

JR's TV Reviews - GAME OF THRONES, Season 5

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GAME OF THRONES, Season 5

Year of Release: 2015

JR's Rating:  (10 out of 10, Outstanding)

⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken"

"Kill the boy and let the man be born."
- Maester Aemon to Jon Snow

Foreshadowing is the key to set forth the many events that will take place in the powerful nation of Westeros. The start foreshadows the grim that is yet to happen to Cersei, her children and an ominous overthrow of her reign as queen as well. That begs the idea of an eventual downfall of house Lannister. At the moment though, while we might probably have a new, more prosperous king, in the form of King Tommen, there are many threats still looming under the king's direction. The army of the dead, Daenerys, Stannis, the Boltons and the newly minted Sparrows are still to be dealt with in the not so much prosperous nation. Peace and alliances are to be made but more and more enemies are bound consequently. You can't just feel confident and calm when defeat is a snap away.

To defeat the army of the dead, Jon Snow assembles truce between the wildlings and crows but ends up being killed treacherously as a traitor to his cause. To claim the North, the Boltons have ransacked Winterfell and is fixing marriage between the bastard Ramsay and Sansa but the former escapes just as the Boltons won war against Stannis who came short of furthering his claim as king. To set her path to Westeros, Queen Daenerys is just but starting her reign in Meereen but is contested with having her ideals and principles on the way of tradition and politics in the nation of her people. To punish sin and spread the true message of faith, the Sparrows are slowly becoming a force to be reckoned with as, despite the power that are the Tyrells and Cersei, they managed to implore correction and atonement. This season is about personal agendas and scores to be settled in what seems to be the start of the war against the dead and also the war towards the throne.

JR's TV Reviews - GAME OF THRONES, Season 4

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GAME OF THRONES, Season 4

Year of Release: 2014

JR's Rating:  (10 out of 10, Outstanding)

⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"Hear Me Roar!"

"What good is power if you cannot protect the ones you love?"
- Cersei Lannister to Prince Oberyn Martell

And finally the moment we've been waiting for, King Joffrey Baratheon, or better, Lannister has been killed. Yes I said it, it's been a long way coming but it finally happened. We follow the consequences of his death which leaves the Lannisters stronger and at the same time vulnerable. Both Sansa and Tyrion are at the forefront of the suspects. People all over Westeros are taking pleasure from his demise since a king as mad as him never deserve the throne to begin with. The Tyrells are on the peak of reaching the throne while the Martells are close at getting their revenge. Daenerys is slowly picking up her army while Stannis and even an older and younger Bolton are slowly claiming the North to their advantage, the former knowing the presence of a greater threat beyond the wall. Chaos is sprucing all over Westeros as the play for the Iron Throne continues.

JR's TV Reviews - GAME OF THRONES, Season 3

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GAME OF THRONES, Season 3

Year of Release: 2013

JR's Rating:  (9.8 out of 10, Impressive)

⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"Family, Duty, Honor"

"I want to fight for the side that fights for the living. Did I come to the right place?"
- Jon Snow to Mance Ryder

The season begins where it ended. Samwell Tarly is spared but the message is clear of a greater and more dangerous threat for the entire of Westeros. As much as men (and woman) are waging towards their claim for the throne, this greater danger is making its presence known. The question is when and how. While Jon Snow is already aware of this, he gets conflicted with how to fight for his cause as a newly developed love, an eventual violation of his oath, would hinder him down. Down the wall in Westeros, we are left with Robb Stark, Stannis Baratheon, and Joffrey Baratheon still at odds while a Queen Daenerys is sparing the advocacy of breaking chains, going against slavery in a bid to gain the trust and love of the people. Who would live and die is a continuing question. The true Game of Thrones is just getting heated up.

JR's TV Reviews - GAME OF THRONES, Season 2

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GAME OF THRONES, Season 2

Year of Release: 2012

JR's Rating:  (9.6 out of 10, Impressive)

"Ours Is The Fury"

"How can a man be brave if he's afraid? That is the only time a man can be brave."
- Robb Stark to Talisa

The real game of thrones has started when four men and one woman is ought for the Iron Throne. When alliances are supposed to be made, the choice is either to fulfill or neglect. When promises are meant to be said, the choice is either to make or break. Stannis Baratheon is known to have a heavy hand losing almost none of his battles. Renly Baratheon a more righteous ruler yet with a homosexual proclivity wants ascendence despite not being in accordance to the rule of succession. Robb Stark seeks vengeance for his father's death whilst saving his two sisters and also the cessation of the North from the Kingdom. Daenerys Targaryen, with her dragons, seems to be a virtuous one but is far to the throne and yet to find a way back to Westeros. And ultimately, the one who is with power, Joffrey Baratheon or better yet a product of incestous Lannisters is proving unfit of a king by making hesitant decisions and leaving an army at war. When everyone is at war, will they come prepared for a bigger threat, the threat of an undead army residing beyond the wall.

JR's TV Reviews - GAME OF THRONES, Season 1

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GAME OF THRONES, Season 1

Year of Release: 2011

JR's Rating:  (9.8 out of 10, Impressive)
⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"As High As Honor"

"When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die"
- Cersei Lannister to Ned Stark

When you are a king ruling seven kingdoms that are home to several houses, the fight for the throne is always at play to whoever wants it especially when the lineage has been meddled and changed. An infuriated Targaryen siblings are on a quest to reclaim what was supposed to be theirs after being left as the two living members of their house. A patriarch Stark has to deal with the planned overtaking by the Lannister's for the Iron Throne with risk of death or defeat for his own house. The game is as good as it gets as we first get an understanding how one throne can ultimately be the cause of wars, how one throne can cause the further hatred of one house to another. The fight for power whilst being pleasured by whores, wine and non-stop killing is just but the concept of the Game of Thrones as the first season gives us the tone for what is in store.

JR's Movie Reviews - AVENGERS: ENDGAME

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AVENGERS: ENDGAME

Year of Release: 2019

JR's Rating:  (10 out of 10, Outstanding)
⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"Epic In The Grandest Proportions"

A rare moment like this is an achievement in cinema. When everyone just have to see and cheer their favorite avenger for what is probably the final time, “Avengers: Endgame” just has to be celebrated. Box office and hype aside, “Avengers: Endgame” utilizes CGI at its finest while also creating its own unique story and identity based from the iconic Infinity Gauntlet saga. “Avengers: Endgame” is the best the Marvel Cinematic Universe has to offer. With such ambitious scale, my worry though is with the lack of the six iconic heroes on their future flicks, such feat by “Avengers: Endgame” might be hard to follow and even replicated. It is an experience you should not let go until it is still screening at your local cinema. You just have to be crazed to be part of the Endgame journey.

It’s been 10 years since we first saw Nick Fury initiate the Avenger Initiative through Iron Man. Captain America, Thor, Black Widow, Hawkeye, and Hulk would be the first of the many that would be now known as the “Avenger.” They crossed paths with numerous villains and superheroes in an attempt to collect, hide, and protect the six Infinity Stones from being used for evil intent. Then came the mad titan Thanos creating his own version of saving the universe by snapping out half of all living creatures during the Infinity War. Now, the first six Avengers, filled with vengeance from devastation and trauma, make retribution to the fallen through the help of those who survived the snap by exploring the idea of time travel whilst reminiscing their past. Everything comes in full circle as they have that shot at the 1/14,000,605 chance to win not without a few sacrifices along the way. What an amazing way to give closure to the story arcs we have followed for years. Going to the past is also a trip to memory lane.

JR's Movie Reviews - DUMBO (2019)

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DUMBO

Year of Release: 2019

JR's Rating:  (7.1 out of 10, Slightly Good)

"I Feel Like A Kid Again"

(Note: I would avoid comparison with the original animated film. I treated the film as if I haven’t watched the animated classic.)

There’s nothing more vivid and ecstatic than the experience of being a kid again. That seems impossible with growth and aging but the idea of going to carnivals and amusement parks riding those roller coasters, seeing funny clowns and amazing magicians and playing games are contributory to the fun experience of what it was like being a child. “Dumbo” just amazes me with how it made me feel that same excitement, that ignorance of reality without forgetting that it sets up morals and values that are much needed in a more diverse and progressive world. It made me realize that our fantasies can be designed and devised without interfering the course and beauty of nature.

Surfacing from the old animated “Dumbo” classic, we get a live action version of the same on the large screen this 2019. Tim Burton does well on helming this version not without inputting his own weird and eclectic style in the process. Dumbo, the elephant, is astoundingly done making it feel like he’s real and existent with the actors. While the film does good on the many lessons for kids and adults alike such as animal protection and conservation, modern gender roles acceptance, and corporatism, the story feels rushed and sloppy due to how fast-paced every sequence goes. Dumbo’s story stands out but the empathy and necessity to attribute myself with the other main leads doesn’t really ascend due to how secondary they all feel. This movie could have polished itself more but it’s tearjerking scenes and significant (sometimes subliminal) messages are enough to be recommended for kids and adults who want to feel like a kid again.

JR's Movie Reviews - EERIE

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EERIE

Year of Release: 2019

JR's Rating:  (10 out of 10, Outstanding)
⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"The Pinnacle of Philippine Horror"

Eerie /ˈirē/ defined as being strange and frightening. In the case of this film, it acts as both the atmosphere of where the story takes place and somewhat the name of the ghost which the story revolves around with. We are brought inside an exclusive Catholic academy for girls where a series of mysterious attempted suicides are bound to happen. Patricia, a non-"sister" guidance counselor, investigates the deaths through communication and experiences with the supernatural. Her curiosity brings her close to death but makes her discover the most unsettling explanation to everything. What I liked about this movie is how it made me speechless with an ending so unexpected building through a chilling story. It didn't rely on jumpscares but it drives frights from the situations that aren't so typical but also unexpected. You know that everytime night falls, there is something ought to happen. As the movie's viewer, we are torn between the dogmatic and the psychological. We question beliefs of the church while emanating the real diseases of depression and anxiety that are in need of crucial attention.

Mikhail Red is that damn amazing with creating thrillers; his recent “Birdshot” and “Neomanila” films are masterpieces on their own right. His first entry to horror, “Eerie”, is unarguably the best horror film to have spawned in Philippine cinema; it’s the Filipino film to beat this year. The cinematography is astounding, it matches Hollywood horror films aplenty due to how effective it captures the fright of the viewers at their most fragile. Bea Alonzo may be known for your romcom and drama flicks but step aside Kris Aquino we have our new scream queen. Bea’s acting in this film is beyond amazing. I love everything about her in this film; it might even be her best film to date. Charo Santos works effectively as a villain at the same time an empathetic character. Their combination is complimentary, likeable also hateable at times. This movie is truly scary but my love is through the film’s artistry, meaning and direction. The Philippines may not have its Alfred Hitchcock, Jordan Peele or Steven Spielberg but it has a Mikhail Red to be proud of. Eerie, and I emphasize this again, is the Best Philippine Horror Film to date.

JR's Movie Reviews - US

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US

Year of Release: 2019

JR's Rating:  (10 out of 10, Outstanding)
⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"The Duality of the Human Experience"

Jordan Peele may have earned a name alongside Hitchcock, Spielberg and Kubrick for crafting intense yet symbolic horror movies deserving of audience and acclaim. “Get Out” is one of my favorite horror movies and “Us” definitely I anticipated by the time it was announced. It didn’t fail expectations and delivered superbly. It’s definitely horror, no other genre attached. We are brought to a sun-soaked beachfront of California where Adelaide gets to see a duplicate of herself when she was still a child. Years later, her family faces their exact replications in an uprising to conquer the United States. The tethers, a symbolism of human duality between good and evil, are scary and their every move is creepy enough to create a new monster in movies. It took real effort to portray characters of differing nature, one bothersome the other your typical human. Stand out would definitely be Lupita Nyong’o’s anxious Adelaide and well-trained Red. That scene where they chase each other in the end was for me the creepiest. Else, the music at the beginning and a disturbing version of “I Got 5 On It” gave me the goosebumps when no horror was yet on the onset of happening. As a horror movie fan, I definitely had fun checking out the many references, as well, in this film as what is expected of Jordan Peele. Untether yourself from reality with this new horror masterpiece.

JR's Movie Reviews - THE FAVOURITE

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THE FAVOURITE

Year of Release: 2019

JR's Rating:  (10 out of 10, Outstanding)
⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"An Exuberance of Treachery and Jealousy"

No other historical and biographical and comedy film comes close to this film right here. It's one of the most absurd yet unique pieces of cinematic comedies in recent memory. We go back to 18th Century Britain when the country is at war with France. The country then is being led by an uncapable and irresponsible Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) who have frequent mood swings and the inarguable urge for food and sex. While the Queen struggles to balance emotions and leadership, her two aides, Sarah (Rachel Weisz) and Abigail (Emma Stone), fight over to be "that favourite" of the queen, a possible successor to her no heir apparent reign. We engage in their love and hate escapades making us feel dumbfounded by the time the credits roll. With amazing costume and production design, "The Favourite" stands out as one of the most exudingly elaborate I have seen. It's extravagant yet beautiful. I got even hooked to Vivaldi after watching this movie. This is the kind of comedy I like and revere, not much slapstick but more on the dark and satire.

JR's Movie Reviews - CAPTAIN MARVEL

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CAPTAIN MARVEL

Year of Release: 2019

JR's Rating:  (8.0 out of 10, Satisfactory)

"Hope After The Infinity War"

Believe me, when I say, that you have to watch this before bracing ourselves for the Endgame. It sets the tone for what's in store for the future movie as we understand Captain Marvel, her origins and how strong she really is. Set in the 1990s, we see how airpilot Carol Danvers get transformed to the superhero she was destined to be. We see Nick Fury understand her powers too which sets up his Avengers Initiative after getting engaged with aliens and the unthinkable. This movie suffers a sluggish start that might bore viewers from the lack of action but the last half starting from the train scene until it's end are more than enough to enjoy with. I felt teary-eyed though seeing the Stan Lee tribute they made at the beginning of this movie and again when we see his cameo within the movie. As we follow the story of Captain Marvel and Carol Danvers, we see another character, Maria Rambeau that might be forgotten by some by was actually pivotal since she exemplified the formidable spirit of women of color too, a definite Avenger too (if possible). I know, who wouldn't forget the surprise Goose, how he ingested the Tesseract and also damaged Fury's Eye; that you have to also anticipate in this movie. My only question with learning about Captain Marvel was why only now when we could have called her from the very beginning?

JR's Movie Reviews - HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON: THE HIDDEN WORLD

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HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON: THE HIDDEN WORLD

Year of Release: 2019

JR's Rating:  (9.0 out of 10, Impressive)

"Training Hardest, Leading and Letting Go"

It all ends with a blast. How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World is definitely a fitting end to a beloved animated franchise. We bid farewell to both Hiccup and Toothless as they decide to part ways to lead their own individual kingdoms but not without a challenge along the way, a villain who has the thirst for dragon's blood. As Hiccup and Astrid ties the knot, stay tuned for the Light Fury that would fill you with awe and goosebumps. We would eventually discover what is "The Hidden World", what it is and what it looks like. It's a very beautiful mystery that again fuels goosebumps. Await some scenes as well that are throwbacks to the past two films. The animation, as like the last film, improved even the slightest detail and background are too well designed. This movie is not without morals for kids who have grown to be inspired by the first film. It's sad to say goodbye though but all must come to an end. Their story indeed changed the world forever.

JR's Movie Reviews - HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON 2

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HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON 2

Year of Release: 2014

JR's Rating:  (9.5 out of 10, Impressive)

"Train Harder, Bravery, Love and Sacrifice"

Tomorrow would be my review for HTTYD 3; today, How To Train Your Dragon 2. The second outing in this marvelous animated franchise brings us family love and also a powerful villain at its center. While Hiccup would finally meet his overly amazing mother, devastation would struck them when the villain would kill a character we loved from the first film. We finally see responsibility taking a toll on the main character especially when the yearn for leadership is high. The stakes are high for Hiccup when everybody looks up to him. When man finally got the trust of dragon, how would they face it when an alpha beast gets into the mix. I have to say though, I prefer the first film over this since the experience of awe when seeing the dragons for the first time wasn't already there; however, this film gave me some sadder moments due to a villain which was absent from the first film. The animation was improved and definitely over the top in this second film. Facial hair, environment textures and also water and ice are some of those that I am really impressed. If you pay attention to each scene, attention to detail was placed to moving pieces behind the talking or conversing characters that are to enjoy as well. If you loved the first film, you have to watch this as well.

JR's Movie Reviews - HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON

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HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON

Year of Release: 2010

JR's Rating:  (10 out of 10, Outstanding)
⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"Train Hard, Prove Everybody Wrong"

Before I even do my review for HTTYD 3, I just have to give my insights on its two preceding movies; so first, How To Train Your Dragon. Proving everybody wrong is just the hardest challenge any person must face. The traditional mindset prevails even in a slowly changing society as they have to be contested against updated yet better ones. How To Train Your Dragon explores a story unlike no other where such is expressed in a tale of dragon and man both at odds with one another. A nobody named Hiccup, the son of the village's chieftain, is set to do the unthinkable, tame and take control of a dragon when none was able to do it. With too many dragons and characters to explore, we engage ourselves in a quest to find the truth and discover who the real enemy is. How To Train Your Dragon is a remarkable feat in animation providing a creative and awe-inspiring tale that still resonates from the first time you'll watch it. The graphics and it's attention to detail are some of what I praise in this future classic. It remains a personal favorite that I highly suggest kid or all those young at heart to see. It's indeed a masterclass in animation that is indicative of sequels that are destined to succeed.

JR's Movie Reviews - BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY

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BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY

Year of Release: 2018

JR's Rating:  (9.7 out of 10, Impressive)
⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"Ecstatic, Born To Be A Performer"

Note: In doing this review, I neglected the historical accuracy of the events occuring on the film. So everything in this movie was solely judged on the movie's story, production set, direction and acting. Everything was treated as if it were a work of art with liberty in story-making.

It was too late I have to do this review as I had my exams way back November but lo and behold I had it made just in time before the Oscars. I had this film to blame for earworming (if such a word exist) to "Bohemian Rhapsody", "Another One Bites The Dust", "I Want To Break Free", and "Don't Stop Me Now" a few days before my board exams (and I thank Queen for helping me pass, by the way). Bohemian Rhapsody, both the film and the titular song, made me fell in love with Queen, Freddie Mercury and their most certainly immortal music. Rami Malek's performance as Freddie Mercury is one for the books; like Freddie, he's ecstatic and born to be a performer in this movie. I'm betting on him for the Best Actor nod for the Oscars. Each performance in this movie are to die for but due credit is to be made for the LiveAID performance which the crew done it's best to replicate even in it's tiniest detail. I felt teary eyed watching the entire scene most especially that events preceeding this already imposed an impending death to Freddie (in reality, however, it was after LiveAID when Freddie was diagnosed with HIV and AIDS). Bohemian Rhapsody remains one of the best musicals in recent memory. It's a treat to a generation who never got to see and hear Freddie Mercury's music. It was sad that his life was a shortlived one but admiration is to be placed for, despite his seemingly legendary status, he is all but a human being who craves for love and family.

JR's Movie Reviews - ROMA

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ROMA

Year of Release: 2018

JR's Rating:  (9.9 out of 10, Impressive)
⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️

"An Artistic Look At A Housemaid's Life"

Alfonso Cuarón delivers yet another living masterpiece reflecting his childhood. If I may describe it, it's as if you are in an art museum but seeing paintings that are very much vibrant and alive thankfully accessible on your household TVs through Netflix. Set in a very much conflicted Mexican landscape, the movie follows a housemaid's day-to-day life while serving a slowly falling apart middle-class family in Roma, Mexico. It follows her life before and after being left alone with pregnancy. There's something about Cuarón's direction in this film that makes such a movie unique. His use of continuous shots and horizontal panning is so beautifully done that it makes such an experience immersive. Yalitza Aparicio's debut doesn't prove to be a failure but rather a surprise that is astounding and recognition worthy. There are many social issues and tragedies to discuss after the film and such makes the movie perfect for reviews and analyses. I highly suggest this film for seeing especially by students of literature and film studies. My only warning is if you're an average cinema viewer easily bored by black and white movies and more if it's done in a foreign language then this movie might not really interest you. But I have to say, never have I seen a film like Roma. I wouldn't be surprised if it will win in this year's Academy Awards, Roma deserves it.