Movie Review - THE PLATFORM

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THE PLATFORM

Year of Release: 2020 (Netflix)

JR's Rating: 10 /10, Outstanding

"Mastering The Craft of Social Privilege"

The Platform is a highly recommended watch especially now when we have all the time to exasperate on our own. The movie masters the presentation of social privilege in the most thrilling and horrific manner, but in the most positive sense. Figuratively, while those above have the advantage of getting resources to their own deciding, people down below are fighting to get a piece of what's left. It's highly symbolic of class stratification that is roughly representative of modern day society, almost what the movie Parasite did but all the more providing layers unseen between the rich and the poor.

We see an elevated prison where individuals are incarcerated for a crime or, well, involuntarily to obtain something (probably a diploma, idk). Each individual are allowed to bring one item of choice to use during their stay within their corresponding cell. Every month they are assigned to a level that might either be beneficial or not. Food appear to be abundant by those above but down below scarcity becomes a concern as what's left above is what's theirs to eat. The question is how to encourage everyone to equally share what they have and how to challenge the status quo that they are facing.

The movie was produced 2019 but was released on Netflix last March 20 to Filipino audiences. It maybe a foreign language film but even without subtitles, you'll get to understand the story when you delve into the emotions of the characters. The movie stands out technically as lights, sound and directing technique seem to make it feel like a play at your local theater or opera house. There are too many twists to anticipate in this movie but everything is up to the individual's interpretation and imagination. Everything about the movie is an experience that enlightens about the reality of society. The idea is innovative (well with subtle elements from familiar horror classics).

Here are some details you ought not to miss:
1. Goreng
2. Trimagasi
3. Imoguiri
4. Baharat
5. The Food Platform
6. The Panna Cotta Is The Message
7. The Child Is The Message
8. The Concept and Rules

#ThePlatform #ThePlatformNetflix #Netflix
#2020Movies #MovieReviews #JRMovieReviews

Watched on 25 March 2020 via Netflix

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^JR Late Night Posts - JR Late Night Reviews: Movies

Time Published: 28 March 2020 (08:00 PM)

Movie Review - BIRDS OF PREY

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BIRDS OF PREY

Year of Release: 2020

JR's Rating: 9 /10, Impressive

"PhD In Being A Badass Bitch"

Never underestimate the power of this PhD in Psychiatry, Harley Quinn is a badass ready to hurt, kick butt and smash brains. Violence is her virtue after all.

After an emotional breakup with Joker, Harley Quinn is left with nobody but herself. Her immunity is no more when various individuals take revenge on their grievances against her. Her greatest adversary would be Roman Sionis (aka The Black Mask) who is set to put her life into danger unless she gives her a diamond ingested by a street snatcher. With the help of the Birds of Prey - Black Canary, The Huntress and Renee Montoya, Harley Quinn is off to the greatest villainery of her life.

As much as the movie's name is Birds of Prey, make no mistake that it mostly revolves around the mischiefs of her highness, Harley Quinn which is, by the way, magnificently portrayed by Margot Robbie. Every one-liner punches and action sequences, those from the police station break-in using her firework / grenade launcher to the amusement park battle against the men of Roman Sionis, are to anticipate. The color in this movie is aesthetically pleasing which are coupled with some great music selections. While the movie was definitely amazing, the Birds of Prey trio seemed left out when they should have been the focus. Don't get me wrong though, this movie serves as a worthy introduction to the girl team for any potential sequels or stories.

Here are some details you ought not to miss:
1. Margot Robbie
2. Action Choreography
3. The "Grenade" Launcher
4. Abandoned Amusement Park
5. Harley Quinn Intro
6. The Birds of Prey Trio
7. Music Selection
8. Hyena Named After Bruce Wayne

#BirdsOfPrey #HarleyQuinn #DC #DCEU #DCFilms
#2020Movies #MovieReviews #JRMovieReviews

Watched on 25 February 2020 at SM Baguio

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^JR Late Night Posts - JR Late Night Reviews: Movies

Time Published: 26 February 2020 (08:00 PM)

Movie Review - JOKER

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JOKER

Year of Release: 2019

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

"Empathy for the Famed Comic Book Villain"

Welcome to the city of Gotham where corruption exists among men! Arthur Fleck is no ordinary clown struggling mentally and financially, a victim of horrific violence and commercial greed. He is set to become the famed villain of the city to take revenge for his experiences and influence everyone to resist. We see how the clown prince transform to be the archnemesis of our bat crusader.

While in the past everyone seems to hate the Joker, it's only now people get to see everything at his perspective. He too was a victim of bullying and oppression. These are what led him to be the vengeful and vicious villain we came to know. Yes, he killed people and yes, he retaliated with violence but with how his life was portrayed in this film, I can't help but feel empathy and eventually root for his cause. What people should understand is how one's actions can lead to one's hatred and madness in the future. Que sera sera, if I may. Arthur Fleck is a symbol of resistance - resistance against the evil that has degraded and took advantage of the lowest of society. His methods we may not approve but you'll feel compassion with everything he has been through.

I couldn't imagine anyone playing Joker as amazing and demented as Heath Ledger; but Joaquin Phoenix proved otherwise in what has been one of the best acting performances in recent memory. How the Joker laughs, thinks and acts may take days and months of method but Joaquin aced the experience of being Joker to its maximum. One other thing I liked the most about this movie, the artistic cinematography that highlights every scene as more than just a story but art. The movie astounds in so many ways that makes a potential boom of villain origins that would provide empathy over their superhero counterparts. I guess Warner Brothers / DC have found a way to counter Marvel's movie dominance with this. Joker maintains to be a highly recommended comic book outing well deserving of its numerous accolades at the moment.

Hail to The Clown Prince of Crime!

Here are some details you ought not to miss:
1. Joaquin Phoenix as Joker
2. Arthur Fleck's Laugh
3. Dancing in the Restroom
4. Murder of Murray Franklin
5. Riots at Gotham
6. The Cinematography
7. Question of Joker's Sanity
8. Short Show of Batman's Origins

#Joker #2019Movies
#MovieReviews #JRMovieReviews #AcademyAwards2020 #Oscars2020

Watched on 04 October 2019 at SM Calamba

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^JR Late Night Posts - JR Late Night Reviews: Movies

Time Published: 09 February 2020 (08:00 PM)

Movie Review - PARASITE

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PARASITE

Year of Release: 2019

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

"Korean Satirical Masterpiece on Social Classes"

When the impoverished "parasites" its way towards the privileged, a comedy of avoid getting caught is off to set everyone for a thrillride. The Kim family takes shot at a gullible Park matriarch to slowly infiltrate their household taking advantage of their wealth to complement their living. Everyone, however, would be shocked when the mystery of the house is revealed.

The rain is viewed as a blessing by the rich but an inconvenience to the poor. We live where wealth of the rich is off to be spent for luxury while the poor is set to spend their money for necessities. We see how the rich stays at the top disgusted at the appearance (smell) of the poor. On the other hand, we see the poor reliant on those people above them despite all the hardships and discrimination thrown at them. "Parasite" explores such stratification of our society in great detail, opening the eyes of each one to the reality existent that is in dire need of attention and resolution to implore the equality or equity that everyone has been fighting for so long.

Everything about "Parasite" highlights how equally good Asian movies are with those from the West. It doesn't need English to make the audience comprehend what the film is ought to share. Bong Joon Ho's direction is masterful and deserving of emulation by aspiring filmmakers. The ensemble of actors are equally amazing, each I fell in love for how distinct and relatable their personalities are. The ambitious production design and its accompanying orchestral score acts as a unique character of their own in this movie. Each scene transcends an experience as if you are awed by paintings and sculptures at the gallery at the same time electrified by a roller coaster of rides at an amusement park. In fact, the scene involving the Kim family hiding and escaping the Park family amazed and thrilled me in a way unlike no other.

"Parasite" is one of the best films in modern cinema. It doesn't demand a Hollywood / English remake because it already is perfect just the way it is. Like Bong said, once we overcome the barrier of subtitles, we will be introduced to so many more amazing films. "Parasite" is truly the highlight and pinnacle of Asian filmmaking.

Here are some details you ought not to miss:
1. The Jessica Jingle
2. Kim Family Watching The Rain
3. Dark Comedic Lines
4. The "Namgoong" House
5. Musical Score
6. Hiding Like Cockroaches
7. Da-Song's Birthday Party
8. Ambitious Yet Hopeful Ending

#Parasite #2019Movies
#MovieReviews #JRMovieReviews #AcademyAwards2020 #Oscars2020

Watched on 29 January 2020 at SM Mall of Asia Director's Club,
05 January 2020 with Liza Alma Rimando,
and 23 December 2019 with Lord Kenreich Rosuman

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^JR Late Night Posts - JR Late Night Reviews: Movies

Time Published: 08 February 2020 (08:00 PM)

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.