Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Genre: Action/Adventure

Directed: Anthony Russo and Joe Russo

Starring: Chris Evans, Anthony Mackie, Scarlett Johansson, Samuel Jackson & Robert Redford

Running: 136 minutes

Man vs Movie has reported on the Marvel allegiance takeover in dull fashion over the years. Frankly, I am sick to death of it. The success of Iron Man (2008) and Avengers: Assemble in (2012) is well deserved. However Disney have all but forced us to eat a particular dinner that looked delicious in the oven but turned out to be too cold, mushy and tasteless i.e. the boring tale of Thor and The Dark World (2013), Ironman 2 (2010) followed by the divided opinion of Ironman 3 last year. Man vs. Movie can officially confirm that Ironman 3 was pure garbage! We could ramble on about Spiderman but that's for another day. The latest from Marvel studio is yet another sequel that tries to prove to superhero fans that the spawn of the Avengers success was not a once off enjoyment. As you may have already guessed, I did not like Captain America: The First Avenger (2011). I questioned myself but I would be lying if I told you there were sleepless nights. I came to the conclusion that maybe I just don't like Captain Steve Rogers as a whole? Well, since the release of winter soldier, Marvel fans (and me) have united to celebrate what is one of the most surprising movies of 2014 (so far) and the best marvel movie since the Avengers? (Yes that is a question).

Captain Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) is now celebrated as the hero and ageless World War II veteran Captain America who is fitted to a new suit and assigned to American duty; protect, serve and like the fantastic opening scene on heavy waters, infiltrate. Captain America and SHIELD’s recruitment set the ass-kicking tone from the off as Captain America takes out armed guards on a SHIELD vessel occupied by an Algerian mercenary. The fight choreography is rough and tense as we watch what looks like an upgraded Captain flinging his deadly shield beyond all corners of the vessel.  SHIELD companion Natasha aka Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) is on her own mission of intelligence, one that leaves the Captain questioning the initial orders of Nick Fury (Samuel Jackson). It is only after the mission that the Captain is briefed by Fury as the patched dictator reveals Project Insight; three hellicarriers designed to park in the sky limit in order to eliminate any potential threat to the United States. Seeing this as a way of spreading an epidemic of fear rather than protection, Captain America's once proud perspective of the United States government is no longer. Steve Rogers struggles to adapt to modern society outside the suit. However Captain America is forced to put his politics to one side when Nick Fury is attacked by unknown assailants with the name “Winter Soldier “being linked to a potential destruction of SHIELD. 

Captain American and Black Widow seek to retain intelligence data that could reveal far more loose ends than they could have ever imagined. Creative villain Winter Soldier is the poison to Captain America's chalice making this sequel far more interesting in terms of depth; a story of relevance yet a backdrop of history and some much needed character development. The fantastic action scenes are just one reason this sequel pulls you in. Each character has their moment.  That "about time" moment happens for Nick Fury who gave us nothing but jibe talking jibber jabber in Marvel's “phase one” chapter.  However this time around Nick Fury advertises the very reason he is leading a bunch of kickass heroes into battle because he too can bolster some action. The lustful Black Widow is entertainingly witty and dangerous in her brutality once again, while new companion Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) aka Falcon is a humorous character of much likeness and excitement regarding the expansion of his story.

If a movie is going to be over two hours long the director would want to make sure it is well balanced. In this case, the action does outweigh the drama, and so it should; we want action, and we want it now. But, those looking for an all-out deconstruction of a country will want to stick to Man of Steel or Transformers because the portion of drama and dialog are added in what becomes a necessary environment of morals and human decisions based on terrorist acts, intelligence and the very existence of war. I think that is where winter soldier is receiving the majority of praise. It does carry relevance and depth followed by some well-choreographed scenes of brutality; an elevator brawl, a highway chase and a memorable showdown full of twists and turns. Reflecting back to my above sentence, this Marvel tale has everything involved to keep you interested.

Directors Joe and Anthony Russo go into much detail regarding the story's backdrop. The inheritance of the old “factual history” trick has worked really well on this occasion and fortunately suits the origins of Captain America and the villainous antagonist. Previous director Joe Johnston did something similar in its Nazi-mystic element featuring the red skull but it was two hours too long. The action became boring and the story was careless, while we never truly rooted for Steve Rogers and his transformation. The Winter Soldier does well in building on an already existing chapter and overdeveloping the story of “what was” in its brief flashbacks of the first movie. So in a way this sequel has the first movie to thank in regards to the diagnoses of each character, developing Chris Evans into a Captain America we engage with and ultimately root for – something that proved hard to do in its predecessor. It brings satisfaction in relation to the extent of where Captain America, as a comic-book superhero is going and will inevitably become.

We will see a third movie but not before a much anticipated Avengers sequel. Then we will see a return of the hammer wielding Thor and maybe a Mark Ruffalo Hulk revamp. By the time a third movie comes out fans would have made up their mind on where the hell Marvel is going to take all of this. Nevertheless, The Winter Soldier has done what Thor and Ironman failed to do – create an exciting level of anticipation regarding a trilogy. 

Under the Skin

Genre: Horror/Thriller
Directed: Jonathan Glazer 
Starring: Scarlett Johansson 
Running: 108 minutes

As silly as it may sound, Jonathan Glazer's take on modern alien-ism is so realistic it is truly frightening. A horror movie it is not, a sci-fi is questionable also; let's just say Under the Skin is a bag of everything, including drama and sentiment from a female alien seeking humanity in oneself. Giving very little away in its advertisement, judging by its James Cameron style poster, the opening scene is one of true remembrance, even if there is very little to show. Jonathan Glazer makes an alien assumption and what we are about to follow through-out this 100 minute slideshow of fascinating images.

A machine is seen slowly making its way toward what we eventually make out to be a human like eyeball, constructing our female protagonist to be (Scarlett Johansson). From there we witness a compelling concept of the hunter and the hunted through an aliens-eye-view. Prowling the wet streets of Scotland with a motive that is never fully explained, Laura is on the look out for vulnerable men with no direction other than the dark depths of what appears to be a concept of alien abduction. The murky human world is what captivates this movie to its full realism as hidden cameras are used to show the mundane streets featuring pedestrians at their typical. A transit van supplied by a mysterious biker is used to distract Laura from her manifestation; unrecognisable beneath her 80s retro hairstyle, Laura routinely distracts men at their most isolated, inviting them back to her abandoned house where they will meet their demise, revealing the most fascinating image and the "horror" of the movie. However Under the Skin feels purposely divided into a movie of two very different chapters, one that reveals sentiment in Laura with a dramatic outlook on what happens when the tables are turned on our leading star. It goes on to focus on a clever concept, one of much relevance in today's society. For me, Jonathan Glazer kills the darkish mood of its first 45 minutes to give us a sense of humanity and sympathy but again going back to what the movie offered at the beginning, making for a fantastic intro, a strange and not too comfortable middle and a brilliant ending.

Scarlett Johansson does very little here, yet it is the performance of her career no doubt. As strange as that may sound, that is exactly it; her cold and calculated expressions, her movement and her overall commitment to a film revealing more nudity than we would have expected, she is dedicated to her robust character from the get-go. Scarlett showcases a method side to her acting that the blockbusters of the past have not aloud her to do. Her robotic persona is scary and seductive making Under the skin spine tingling at times, yet heartfelt for both herself and her victims - she leads the line in fantastic fashion in this very rare one-women-show.

The chilling soundtrack helps set the atmospheric tone this movie thrives off from the beginning. Scarlett's on screen presence creates something so unnerving, you could cut the cinematic atmosphere with a blunt knife. The oblivious folks appearing in the backdrop of midnight Scotland gives this movie a sense of realism, with its stalker concept being of much relevance. Jonathan Glazer sheds some light on just how the average male can be vulnerable in the dead of the night; one scene shows just how far Laura will go to lure a victim to a misty grave.

Those looking to enjoy a movie of dialog will be very disappointed. Under the skin is an artistic outlook of hunter seeking its prey using a plethora of images; featuring deserted highways, wet and windy pavements and grizzly houses, while the sci-fi also comes into play in Laura's lair. Unfortunately the same concept is used toward the middle of the movie and the end, substituting gritty streets for the country woods and more. I for one found the images fascinating and self-explanatory.

Very little can be said in regards to how the movie plays out, and some people may be disappointed in that sense. It is probably the most realistic take on alien-ism I have seen in modern film so far. However so realistic that it may prove boring for some, and virtually unexplained. I for one tend to keep an open mind, therefore enjoying this visionary bag of mixed treats from Jonathan Glazer.

Ride Along

Genre: Action/Comedy

Directed: Tim Story

Starring: Ice Cube & Kevin Hart

Running: 100 minutes 

The buddy cop genre has had some ups and downs in its time. The origins are however, worth remembering such as 48hrs, Lethal Weapon and Beverly Hills cop still holding up. Unfortunately the existence of such classics are often used to help revive such a genre resulting in many copycats; the dire and ultimately forgettable Cop Out (2010), the divided opinion of The other Guys (2010) and R.I.P.D of late (to name a few) have all proved unoriginal and most importantly, not funny. Ride Along falls into the same poison chalice.

Stuck with the same facial expression since Boys in the Hood, Ice Cube finds himself in position similar to Friday; shunned by Chris Tucker's comedic dose, Ice Cube's lack of personality gives way to Tucker's replacement, Kevin Hart.

Ben (Hart) is a part time boyfriend and full time video gamer. Destined to become a police officer, his national security job is a stepping stone to become the bad ass his brother in law defies him to become. Desperate to impress his mundane companion Angela (Tika Sumpter), Ben passes his exams. Behind Ben's obviously obnoxious personality is hard as rock, straight-outta Compton rouge officer James (Ice Cube) who showcases is gun skills upon the movies introduction. Like all buddy cop movies a hatred must exist and indeed one does. Ben plans to wed James's sister Angela, much to the disgust of James whose long term memory of a barbecue incident is the route to Ride-along’s typical chemistry of modern buddy cop humour. Hell bent on proving his courageousness, Ben is taken on a "ride-along" by James, resulting in a part-time comedy (thanks to Hart) but monotonous which is also thanks to Hart.

I would be lying if I told you that Ride-along offers nothing in its comedy, it does. Kevin Hart's miniature presence is somewhat memorable and really tries to give this nonsensical blockbuster a heartbeat (excuse the pun); re-enacting Denzel Washington's Oscar winning disintegration scene from Training Day in front of a biker gang, to the testing of various guns in a police gun range. However the drawn out perspective of Kevin Hart's height is used to the extreme, resulting in a comedy that takes a new direction in depending on "slapstick" over the witty dialog that maybe could have been used in replacement. Kevin Hart's attempt to become the next Eddie Murphy gets the best of him with his in your face dialog proving tiresome the longer the movie survives.

Other cast members include cop companion Santiago played by John Leguizamo who thanks to his Luigi portrayal in that god awful super Mario movie still gives me nightmares, am I the only one? Laurence Fishburne also makes a predicted appearance looking shocked as to how the hell he ended up in this stage of his career.

Ride-along is weak in its plot, so much so that you forget there is one. James's so-called determination to bring in the concealed identity of a "word of mouth" killer is quickly forgotten as his obsessive hatred for Hart's character is just preposterous; so much so that an investigation turns into a 24 patrol premise revealing segments of spiritless comedy, resulting in a tedious film. The final 10 minutes reminds us of a plot we have already ignored and depending on your humour, the three funny scenes involved in a 100 minute cash grab may prove hilarious or just inattentive.

Her

Genre: Drama
Directed: Spike Jonze
Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Scarlett Johansson & Amy Adams
Running: 126 min

Spike Jonze has played a hand in directing a plethora of peculiar films most noticeably favoring the short film genre and proudly credited for the hilarious writing involved in the Jackass movies and Bad Grandpa of recent. With the Academy awards around the corner Spike Jonze's latest is a mellowed take on one man's relationship with his computer (to be frank). Nominated for best movie along with Dallas buyers Club, 12 years a slave etc. Her will be credited for its relevance in terms of technology with a sci-fi twist lingering in the background. Its beautiful surroundings are not forced upon, rather trusting the viewer to engage in its leading protagonist which proves both humorous and heartfelt.

Theodore (Joaquin Pheonix) has an attaching occupation in writing letters of lust, heartbreak and celebration to people around the world; which is ironic regarding his own troubles. Theodore is content in his social life and happy to play 3D video games in his spare time. Flashbacks of his previous relationship tells a different story, showing the hesitance in Theodore as his wife awaits his signature on the divorce papers. The metropolitan concept is quite surprising, leaving us to assume that Theodore's time on earth is certainly not modern. We see this in the premise of his job occupation, the design of his room, the video games, and more importantly, the OS1; the world's first artificial intelligent operating system. To suit that of his lifestyle and workload Theodore purchases the advanced application resulting in a relationship like no other.

Much to his surprise, OS1 is a conscience, so much so that her name is Samantha (Scarlett Johansson). Samantha seems like the hole missing in Theodore's lonely lifestyle and fulfills an emotional attachment that Theodore has been seeking to overcome, and does so by falling in love with Samantha.

While the plot may sound peculiar on paper, some will be surprised to find themselves adapting to Theodore's ambition to make this work, and work it does; as from there we see the bright side of Theodore who, for the first time in a long time is able to share the joys in life with Samantha who is occasionally taken on trips around the beautiful city. Samantha is so impressed with seeing the world through Theodore's pocket camera that she starts to develop a personal attachment to Theodore making "Her" even weirder, but funny and heartfelt as the story progresses.

Her does well in its focus on certain people in Theodore's life, who, just like him, are not happy in the life they lead. One of these is the wonderful Amy (Amy Adams) who's relationship with Charles (Matt Letscher) is far from steady, seeking friendly comfort in Theodore who have so much in common, however the OS1 trend is something that separates any potential lust. And that is what Spike Jonze does so good in highlighting the wave of technology to a point of unsociable engagement, highlighting the technological advancement that exists among modern society, crafting a love story between Theodore and his computer so legitimately that we don't question it. Although I will say that "Her" could have knocked thirty minutes off as it is a little dragged out to the point of feeling that its once sense of direction was at a loss.

Her is pretty much a one man show, therefore there are not many characters to discuss apart from Joaquin Phoenix who gives a great performance in what looks a simple film to be part of, but it is the camera angles that capture the various emotions from Phoenix and his ability express circumstances through his witty dialog and facial expressions. Her is a great movie that is not for everyone (unfortunately). Its concept is silly, but one must recognise the human emotions attached to such a story. The beautiful scenery has gotten more attention than the finished plot. It will not win best film and it is not unfortunate considering what it's up against.

Overall: A really enjoyable, beautifully original love story that offers some laughs. Joaquin Phoenix is the only reason to see it, and while the concept is not for everyone, the presence of Phoenix can not be missed, even if the movie is an unnecessary length.

Hitchcock

A chapter of romance and suspense; Hopkins and Mirren are a joy to watch

I can't remember the last time I saw Anthony Hopkins on screen; maybe it wasn't a movie worth remembering if I did. But this time around he portrays the master of suspense in what unfortunately isn't a full biopic, but a chapter of great importance regarding the man he would be forever remembered for. 

With movies such as Vertigo and North by Northwest added to his catalogue, Alfred Hitchcock (Anthony Hopkins) is on the look out for an entirely new premise of film making, one that is bound to leave him knee deep in despicable perceptions. With a majority of writers destined to work with Alfred, he struggles to accept a plethora of scripts that ultimately lead him to reading Psycho; a suspenseful novel by Robert Bloch. The book is loosely based on Wisconsin serial killer Ed Gein. Fascinated by Bloch's creative serial killer, Alfred can see the script for his next movie the more he reads the book. His wife Alma (Helen Mirren) is far from convinced as she consistently reminds him that such a genre is not only unheard of then, but she believes that he is setting himself up for a media crucifixion.

This brief chapter in Hitchcock's life is centred around his desperate fight in persuading Paramount Studios boss Barney (Richard Portnow) to take Psycho to the big screen. While on the other hand we are treated to the highs and lows of his relationship with Alma. Despite her love for Alfred, his frontal involvement with shower victim Janet Leigh (Scarlett Johansson) and twin sister Vera Miles (Jessica Biel) of the Psycho cast is proving difficult to over come this time around. Alfred starts to feel the Pressure as his lack of attention toward Alma results in a solo project, while Paramount Studios on the other hand are beginning to show signs of regret as their reputation hangs in the balance of a film revealing more downs than ups. 

Director Sacha Gervasi shoots another euphoric movie following the Terminal in 2004. However, with a movie entitled Hitchcock, viewers may have expected more of the man himself rather than Alma Reville. There is a huge focus on Alma and her apparent drive toward making Psycho the movie that it is, with some saying she is hugely responsible for helping Psycho to the big screen.  With the movie largely titled Hitchcock, I would have liken to get a deeper insight into the man behind the darkness; instead we get a number of haunting sequences of Hitchcock's nightmares involving Ed Gein. Never the less, it showcases Hitchcock's relationship status in fantastic form with some feel-good romance as well as both personalities offering a comedic twist.

The sequences on the set of Psycho are rare, with the brief chemistry of Janet Leigh and Hitchcock running a little bit short. I would have liken to see more of James D'Arcy as Anthony Perkins/Norman Bates, who despite his cameo appearance is quite memorable in what is a shocking resemblance to the original both physically and verbally.

Overall: Hitchcock is a fascinating insight into the life of a man struggling to cope with certain expectations. It is unfortunate this is not a full biopic, however the performance from Hopkins doesn't go unnoticed, along with the chemistry he shares alongside Helen Mirren proving exceptionally funny and emotionally heart-felt. 

7.4/10



The Avengers Review 2012

The Avengers finally assemble on the orders of Nick Fury!

There was no secret of the highly populated cast in the lead up to the Avengers, taking into account the hype since the release of Iron Man in 2008. The success of Iron man was followed by a sequel in 2010. Fans of the Super Hero franchise where greeted with the release of two more comic book movies, Thor and Captain America. The question was, could the Avengers succeed as a whole?

Nick Fury (Jackson) recruits Iron Man (Downey Jr), Thor (Hemsworth), and Captain America (Evans) as well as newcomer Mark Ruffalo as the HULK! The super group also consists of two newbies to the big screen, Black Widow is played Scarlett Johansson and Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye (The next Bourne?)

The world is under threat following the arrival of Loki, a citizen of Asgard, another Universe. (Thor 2011). Loki is the brother of Thor, although both would agree the distance between them is not exaggerated. It is Loki's attack on S.H.I.E.L.D that leads to a crucial decision by Nick Fury, leader of the affiliation. The desperate attempt involves regrouping something stronger than Loki and his army of Cohorts, The Avengers!

The movie has a nice feel to it with a brilliant intro of what's to come. Those who have not seen previous movies won't suffer too much but it does consist of some flashbacks regarding Captain America.

The storyline is put together smartly and manages to keep the balance in relation to the numerous egos on board. As Loki is the one at large it feels the story is based off of Thor but does well in blending all characters. As always, Robert Downey shows class as the arrogant, yet hilarious Tony Stark and the ever so cheesy Captain America (Evans). Fans will enjoy the rivalry between both Captain America and Iron man, as personalities quickly collide before they realise the moral of the story is team-work.

 The return of Loki was a great choice as he made for a terrific bad-guy in Thor and the collision between family is still fun to watch. Although Loki seemed a handful in the release of Thor in 2010, Nick Fury and the Avengers get caught completely off guard with Loki and his mind boggling army!

The introduction of a third Bruce Banner is, unfortunately frustrating for some. But when the Hulk is transformed, nobody notices. Yes, a third. Mark Ruffalo plays the man with the temper. Following Eric Bana and Edward Norton (My favourite by the way), Mark Ruffalo as Dr Banner had a challenge on his hands. Is there information on why Edward Norton was not included instead? I believe if he was, performance on the bases of acting would have been better than Mark Ruffalo. But just like I said, in relation to the Avengers, fans just want to see the Hulk tear people, buildings and valuable things apart! and that is just what he does! My favourite was Bruce Banner...when he was green.

My knowledge in Marvel limits, but I wonder what fans made of Hawk-eye and Black Widow? Both characters, like the rest were highly entertaining. Jeremy Renner is leading an exciting future and Scarlett Johansson...well, just do what you do best!... Not forgetting Samuel Jackson, even though he has been forgettable in the past. He gives fans an enjoyable performance, curse free. Mr Jackson just needs to choose his movies carefully in my opinion. He has been in some woeful movies lately.

The action and CGI makes the Avengers what it is. In comparison to Captain America (Which I despised) and even the previous CGI Hulk, this blows them out of the water. You noticed I excluded Both the Iron Man and Thor movies, the Avengers is still early release and is yet to be decided, in my opinion.

The Avengers is up there with the greatest super hero movies ever made. Audience from generations will enjoy the Avengers. Whether you are unfortunate to see this movie in 3D or stay classy with 2D, one must see immediately!

The Exciting question for the future is, What is next to come? Well we know Iron Man 3 and a Thor sequel is in writing. Unfortunately Captain America also, and possibly a new Bruce Banner? who knows. In relation to an Avengers Sequel? now that's getting carried away!

9/10