REVIEW: THE HOBBIT: THE BATTLE OF THE FIVE ARMIES

Author J.R.R. Tolkien is no stranger to the literature community. His contribution to the world of fantasy and adventure has won the hearts of many avid book readers. His two most famous works are The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings which he wrote in the 1940s and 1950s. Filmmakers took the opportunity to capitalize on its popularity by adapting into film the three volumes from Lord of the Rings series in 2001, 2002, and 2003. Two years ago, The Hobbit (which is a prequel to the Lord of the Rings) was released in cinemas. The book was divided into three films which were released every subsequent year in 2012, 2013, and finally 2014.

After An Unexpected Journey (2012) and The Desolation of Smaug (2013), the final chapter hits the big screen with The Battle of the Five Armies. As usual, director Peter Jackson is at the helm just as he was on the previous two films and the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Returning cast members include Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage, Evangeline Lilly, Lee Pace, Luke Evans, Benedict Cumberbatch, Ken Stott, James Nesbitt, Cate Blanchett, Ian Holm, Christopher Lee, Hugo Weaving, and Orlando Bloom. The screenplay was written by Jackson, Fran Walsh, Phillippa Boyens, and Guillermo Del Toro.

Will the final chapter be a film of epic proportions? Do read on…

Martin Freeman is the lead role of the Hobbit named Bilbo Baggins

SYNOPSIS:

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies brings to an epic conclusion the adventures of Bilbo Baggins, Thorin Oakenshield and the Company of Dwarves. Having reclaimed their homeland from the Dragon Smaug, the Company has unwittingly unleashed a deadly force into the world. Enraged, Smaug rains his fiery wrath down upon the defenseless men, women and children of Lake-town. Obsessed above all else with his reclaimed treasure, Thorin sacrifices friendship and honor to hoard it as Bilbo's frantic attempts to make him see reason drive the Hobbit towards a desperate and dangerous choice. But there are even greater dangers ahead. Unseen by any but the Wizard Gandalf, the great enemy Sauron has sent forth legions of Orcs in a stealth attack upon the Lonely Mountain. As darkness converges on their escalating conflict, the races of Dwarves, Elves and Men must decide – unite or be destroyed. Bilbo finds himself fighting for his life and the lives of his friends in the epic Battle of the Five Armies, as the future of Middle-earth hangs in the balance.

Actor Luke Evans (Bard) and Orlando Bloom (Legolas) in a scene from the film 

SCRIPT: 

As the film is based on a novel, I believe the writers will stay true to the story’s plot. I have never read the book but to my knowledge, some characters were added to ‘spice’ up the film. Nevertheless, it would be tricky for the writers to make the script as interesting as possible. I am pleased to say that they did an excellent job. For a story which is set in a mythical fantasy land, the script manages to sustain my interest from scene to scene. The dialogue is not too complicated and far-fetched as one might expect but easily understandable throughout. Writing such a story material might result in isolating non-fans but it doesn’t. Everyone can relate to the story being told in the film. Good characterization for the roles. However, in order to understand the third film, you need to watch the first film An Unexpected Journey (2012) and The Desolation of Smaug (2013) to understand key plot points. There are some good thematic elements within like teamwork, bravery, and courage which was good.

Richard Armitage in a strong performance as Thorin Oakenshield

ACTING:

For an ensemble cast of stars, everyone shone in the film. It is very hard to single out one good performance but if I were to select one, it would be Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield. His character was required to be the opposite of who he was in the first two films and he did this convincingly enough with his acting. Seeing veteran talented actors Ian McKellen, Cate Blanchett, Hugo Weaving, and Christopher Lee together on-screen was certainly a delight.

Veteran British actor Ian McKellen as the wizard Gandalf the Grey

FILMING:

When watching a Peter Jackson directed film, one can expect epic and grand scale filmmaking. And just like his other film, he delivers. The cinematography was very good and could easily transport the audience to the world of the film. The editing was snappy. The visual effects was spectacular and functioned well in enhancing the story. Great music to keep the audience engage in certain scenes.

Director Peter Jackson and actor Martin Freeman on the set of the film

PACING:

Good pacing from start to finish. For a film that is 144 minutes in duration, it did not feel that long.

TONE (MOOD):

A group of unlikely heroes and misfits set out to save their homeland from monstrous invaders and tyrants.

Evangelline Lilly as Tauriel 

DOWNSIDE:

If you don’t like fantasy action adventure films, this might not be your cup of tea.

UPSIDE:

For fans of the author and the series, you would like this film. Also, one does not need to be a fan of the books to like the film as the action adventure storyline is truly a delight.

Epic visual effects on a grand scale

OVERALL:

In conclusion, the film lived up its expectations of grandeur and adventure!

RATING:

8.5 out of 10

REVIEW: INTERSTELLAR

This is one film I have been waiting for so long to watch. I am a big fan of the director Christopher Nolan. Ever since he burst into the Hollywood movie scene with Memento (2000), he has directed 6 more films to with rave reviews from critics and audiences. Nolan is notably famous for reviving DC Comics superhero character on film with Batman Begins (2005), The Dark Knight (2008) and The Dark Knight Rises (2012). He gained even more recognition with the mind-blowing Inception (2010), a movie which I feel is the last true original story to come out from Hollywood.

His next film is Interstellar. Directed by Nolan who also co-wrote the screenplay with his brother Jonathan Nolan. The film stars Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Michael Caine, Jessica Chastain, Mackenzie Foy, David Gyasi and John Lithgow. The film is co-distributed by Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures.

How will Christopher Nolan’s latest film fare up with the rest? Do read on.

Matthew McConaughey in the male lead role of Cooper

SYNOPSIS:

In the not too distant future, planet Earth will be deemed almost inhabitable. Plantations are constantly ravaged by dust storms and humankind is reduced to being farmers. Former NASA test pilot named Cooper, who manages a corn plantation, is mysteriously called upon by his former employees to a secret NASA base. At this NASA base, he is thrust into piloting a spacecraft that would venture into outer space in search of possible new planets for humanity to continue its existence. Together with 3 other scientists, they venture into the far reaches of outer space. They soon discover unexpected challenges which test their limits human beings.

Anne Hathaway in the female lead role of Amelia Brand

SCRIPT: 

Original, adventurous, and magical. As with Nolan’s film Inception, he writes another script based on an original idea which is very rarely seen in Hollywood. The script has a solid structure with a good mix of science-fiction and drama. The premise of the story is a bit far-fetched but the story slowly makes us forget all the technical jargon as the script keeps us rooted in the drama. The plot holds many surprises and gets more interesting almost scene after scene. Despite a few minor plot holes, it is forgivable as the story focuses more on how the characters will overcome challenges. There are a lot of underlying themes about life throughout the movie which I feel was a positive addition. Good characterization for all characters.

Mackenzie Foy as Murphy, daughter of Cooper

ACTING:

The film has two Oscar winners, Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway, in the leading roles. They did not disappoint. They both gave masterful performances worthy of awards and carried their characters well. However, they were outshone by strong supporting performances from Jessica Chastain and young Mackenzie Foy which should not be overlooked.

Searching for a new home

FILMING:

As with most science-fiction films, it is expected that visual effects plays a prominent role and in this film and it does. However, Nolan focuses more on the acting and the story rather than being dependent on the visual effects. The visual effects for the film are spectacular and do give the audience a scale on how large the universe is. The shots are creative and the editing is well organized. The cinematography is also a beautiful splendor to look at.

Christopher Nolan directing Matthew McConaughey on set. 

PACING:

A very good pacing despite a very slow start. The film builds up well in the middle with a good climax in the end. The film runs for about 2 hours and 45 minutes but it does not feel that long.

TONE (MOOD):

It is a race against time to ensure that the future of the human race lives on.

Beautiful cinematography

DOWNSIDE:

The long duration might turn off some people.

UPSIDE:

Lots of surprises and twists along the way. Good positive underlying themes about humanity in general.

The genius that is Christopher Nolan

OVERALL:

A must-watch and must not miss! Watch it in IMAX or halls with big screens. My vote for movie of the year.

RATING:

9.5 out of 10

REVIEW: ANAK JANTAN (Malaysia)

It has been awhile since I last reviewed a local Malaysian film. This time, I will be reviewing Anak Jantan, a local production from Malaysian film distributor Grand Brilliance. Anak Jantan, translated to English means male son. However, in this context the terms describes a sense of machoness and manly-hood.

Anak Jantan is directed by Faizul Rashid who previously helmed Bisikan Syaitan, also from Grand Brilliance. The film stars big names in the Malaysian film industry such as Farid Kamil, Nora Danish, Bront Palarae, Azhan Rani, Qi Razali, and Abu Bakar Omar. The film is written by Opie Harris and produced by famed producer Latiff Mohaideen.

How will this local film fare? Do read on…

SYNOPSIS:

 ‘ANAK JANTAN’ is the story of Darin who flees to Kuala Lumpur with Nara to begin a new life, away from Darin’s dark and violent past. But their happiness is short-lived when Somchai, Darin’s old ‘friend’ arrives in KL determined on exacting revenge. With the life of his son at stake, Darin has no choice but to confront his dark and vicious past and unintentionally sets in motion a chain of events with far reaching consequences! What is Darin really trying so hard to forget and why is Somchai hell bent on getting revenge on Darin?

Farid Kamil and Nora Danish as the male and female lead

SCRIPT: 

Original and fresh. The story is something new in Malaysian cinemas. It has a fresh concept in the action-drama genre. The story and plots were straight-forward and easy to understand. However, it could be improved more with a slightly better structured script. Characterization was too little and could have been developed more. Good thematic elements of redemption.

Farid Kamil having a chat with Azhan Rani

ACTING:

Very strong performances from Farid Kamil, Nora Danish, and Bront Palarae. It is great to see other supporting cast who tried to raise to meet the standards to the three main leads.

Nora Danish

FILMING:

Standard action film with a mix of drama. The shots could have been better but that opinion is very subjective. Pretty neat production design of the sets and wardrobe.

Bront Palarae standing over a dead body

PACING:

A little slow in the beginning but gradually builds up to a decent editing.

TONE (MOOD):

When greed and goals clash, friends become at odds and must battle each other.

Azhan Rani as an investigative cop

OVERALL:

A pretty decent film. It has a light action mood to it. Popcorn film.

RATING:

6.5 out of 10

REVIEW: THE BOOK OF LIFE

I am a big of Mexican film director Guillermo Del Toro. You might seen some of his films which include Hellboy (2004), Hellboy 2 (2008), and the critically-acclaimed Pan’s Labyrinth (2006). Last year, he brought us the monster-hit Pacific Rim which I really enjoyed. This year he returns to the big screen as a producer for an animated film which he has never done before.

The title of the film is The Book of Life. It is directed by fellow Mexican director Jorge Gutierrez. This feature-length animation features the voices of Diego Luna, Zoe Saldana, Channing Tatum, Kate del Castillo, Ron Perlman, Christina Applegate, and rapper Ice Cube. The film is co-written by Gutierrez and Doug Langdale with Del Toro serving as one of the producers.

Will Guillermo Del Toro’s first foray into producing animated films be just as good as his other works? Do read on…

L-R: Joaquin, Maria, and Manolo

SYNOPSIS:

Manolo and Joaquin are childhood friends who live in a small village at the center of Mexico. They both share a close bond among themselves and a girl named Maria. As children, they continue to try and outwit each other to win the heart of Maria. One day, the ruler of the Heavens named La Muerta and the ruler of the Underworld named Xilbalba each make a wager to see which of the two boys will win the heart of Maria. The wager between La Muerta and Xilbalba continues from childhood until adulthood. Both Manolo and Joaquin has yet to win Maria’s heart and are still trying to win her affections. However, the evil Xilbalba has some evil tricks up his sleeve to turn the bet to his favour.

Maria (Zoe Saldana), the love interest of Joaquin and Manolo

SCRIPT: 

Fresh and unconventional. It is the usual love triangle story we all see in films where two boys are  vying for the same girl and one will end up heart-broken or successful. The script positively makes the romantic core element of the film a catalyst in propelling the characters into many adventures and self-discovery. The story infuses a lot of Mexican and Spanish culture (as with most Del Toro films) which makes it fresh and educational for younger viewers. Good characterization of the main three characters. There were some heavy dialogue where characters explained plot details which I felt could have been made more lighter. Though the story deals with themes of death and the afterlife, it is suitable for both adults and children.

Manolo wooing Maria

ACTING:

Voice acting performances in animated films is difficult to evaluate. I felt all actors did their job well in providing the voices and gave strength to their respective characters. I like the inclusion of rapper Ice-Cube in a key supporting role of the film.

Manolo confessing his love for Maria

FILMING:

The film’s artistic design is not the conventional kind in which we see in most animated feature films. The characters and their surroundings are drawn in its own unique way. This brings some freshness amidst all the animation designs we are used to seeing. The film is full of multiple colours and at times felt cluttered. However, as the film goes along, we will get used to it. There are a little influences of stop-animation ala Tim Burton films which makes it interesting. I like the use popular songs in the soundtrack which featured songs from Elvis Presley to Radiohead.

The multi-coloured look of the film

PACING:

Good pacing. A little slow at the beginning but builds up great towards the end.

La Muerte (Kate del Castillo) and Xibalba (Ron Perlman)

TONE (MOOD):

As romance lifts and crumbles the human spirit, only perseverance and bravery can triumph against all odds.

Joaquin voiced by Channing Tatum

OVERALL:

I like the film. It could have been better with more sharp dialogue. Children might find the themes of death and the afterlife a little strange. Good fun all-around.

RATING:

7.5 out of 10

REVIEW: ANNABELLE

Last year, one of my favourite films was The Conjuring, directed by Malaysian-born James Wan. The film tells the tale of a pair of husband and wife paranormal investigators who helps a family from being tormented by evil spirits and demons. The investigators came to prominence worldwide after helping in a case involving a doll possessed by an evil spirit. The doll became a supporting story to The Conjuring and served as an introduction to the characters in the film. You can read my review by clicking here. One year later today, a movie is released about the doll and serves as some sort of ‘prequel’ to The Conjuring.

The title of the film is Annabelle, which is the name of the doll. It is directed by John R. Leonetti who is a Director of Photography (DOP) and was a frequent collaborator of James Wan’s films. The film stars Annabelle Wallis (yes, it is the real name of the actress and a pure coincidence to the film’s title), Ward Horton, Tony Amendola, and Alfre Woodard. The film is written by Gary Dauberman and James Wan serves as one of the producers.

How will this spin-off fare against The Conjuring? Will be as horrifying? Do read on…

Annabelle the Doll

SYNOPSIS:

In a seemingly suburban neighborhood in the 1950s, a couple is awoken to the sounds of a possible violent disturbance. As the couple fights off the intruders, the pregnant wife is accidentally injured but still survived. While fending off the criminals, the wife Mia notices one of her attackers carrying the Annabelle doll belonging to Mia. The attacker is later learned to be a Satan worshiper. After the incident, strange occurrences begin to happen. Both Mia and her husband John moved into another house with their newborn daughter but the occurrences keep happening. Eventually, Mia attempts to investigate what is going on in her house.

SCRIPT:  

Very weak and uninteresting. The film started very promising but it only lasted for 10 minutes. After that, the direction of the film was very messy. It tries to explain the plot too much where the audience can actually figure it out. For a film that is marketed and known to many as a horror film, it lacked the most important essence… scare factor. The film became more of a drama than a horror film. Terrible built up and bad ending.

ACTING:

I understand to producer’s decision to cast newcomers to the lead roles (to make the film seem ‘fresh’ for audience) but the choice of casting was pretty bad. Ward Horton in the lead role of John was too boring. Wallis did show some promise earlier in the film but slowly her appeal. I think they are good actors but had very bad direction.

FILMING:

For a film that is set in the 1950s, I praise the set design. But that is just about it. The editing was not as exciting as I would expect in a horror film. Even the sound effects failed to scare me (well, maybe just that one moment). There was nothing too fancy with the cinematography and looked like a low-budget film, in which it was.

PACING:

Good start and then downhill all the way. Draggy in the middle and anti-climactic towards the end.

TONE (MOOD):

Evil constantly torments a couple and their newborn baby, and it is up to them to solve the mysteries behind these mischievous souls.

OVERALL:

If you are a fan of The Conjuring, maybe you should watch it.

If you are a fan of horror films, please skip it.

If you are a fan of films in general, it is a must skip.

Horrible!

RATING:

2.5 out of 10 

REVIEW: DRACULA UNTOLD

The tale of vampire Count Dracula has been told in films countless times. The character was originally conceived by author Bram Stoker in his novel Dracula many decades ago. Dracula is thought to be inspired by a real life prince of royalty from Eastern Europe named Vlad the Impaler who ruled many centuries ago. This year, Hollywood brings another adaptation (or interpretation) of Dracula.

The title of the film is Dracula Untold. The film marks the directorial debut of Gary Shore. The film stars Luke Evans, Dominic Cooper, Sasha Gadon, Samantha Barks, and Charles Dance. It is written by Mark Sazama and Burk Sharpless.

How will the latest version of the famous Dracula fare? Do read on…

Luke Evans in the title role of soon to be Dracula

SYNOPSIS:

During a distant past in Eastern Europe, Prince Vlad (Luke Evans) is battling the powerful Turkish Sultan Mehmed (Dominic Cooper) who is aiming to conquer the prince’s kingdom. After being forced by the sultan to send 1000 boys as slave, the prince must find other means to save his kingdom and his people. Prince Vlad journeys to a nearby mountain, where he encounters a mysterious powerful figure. This figure promises eternal powers provided that the prince drinks his blood. Under desperation, Prince Vlad drinks his blood thus the legend of the Dracula is born.

To safe his son's life, he must do the unthinkable

SCRIPT:

Fresh and original but could have been better. I actually liked the originality of the idea of the storyline. As the film title suggests, it is a different take on the iconic character and it is expected in the film. The plot is pretty straight-forward and light on the mind. However, it does sometimes try to be too heavy on the dialogue but it can be easily forgiven.

Dominic Cooper as a Turkish sultan, the film's antagonist

ACTING:

Luke Evans and Dominic Cooper are very talented actors but they were under-utilized in this film. Their acting capabilities were limited as they were surrounded by big sets and heavy visual effects. Dominic Cooper was not as convincing as the villain but Charles Dance, who played the mysterious figure in the mountain, performed well.

Dracula is leading his people into war.

FILMING:

For a film that was marketed as a visual effects extravaganza, it served its purpose. That was about it. Nice cinematography from John Schwartzmann (Armageddon, Pearl Harbour) which gave the dark and gritty look. The film is very much a newcomer’s film. Since director Gary Shore is inexperienced, he lives little to the imagination in surprising the audience. However, he does make a decent effort for his debut.

Behind the scenes during filming

PACING:

Not too draggy and decent pacing.

TONE (MOOD):

To save his nation and his people, a royal leader must embark on a dark journey if he intends to be victorious

One man against an army.

DOWNSIDE:

The duration of the movie is too short. It is under 95 minutes including credits. It should have been longer and expanded.

UPSIDE:

I like the original idea of giving Dracula a different backstory to its character. However, many might not agree with me.

The only person that matters to Prince Vlad

OVERALL:

It is a decent film. I won’t go as far as to say it is a ‘must watch’, it can be some light entertainment.

RATING:

6 out of 10

REVIEW: THE EQUALIZER (2014)

There is always an abundance of movie remakes and adaptations in Hollywood. The majority of the films are mostly based on published materials (novels, comic books, etc.) and some are based of popular films or TV shows from the past. When tapping into television shows of yesteryears, movie studios usually go for the popular ones which has a strong fan-based following worldwide. The film I am about to review was adapted from a TV show in the 1980s. I remember watching it on a local Malaysian TV station as a kid (yes, I am old) but to my knowledge, it didn’t receive any huge fandom worldwide. So, I was surprised when the show was adapted into a film.

The titled is The Equalizer. The film is helmed by one of the most under-rated directors around Antoine Fuqua (Training Day, Tears of the Sun, Shooter, Olympus Has Fallen). Hollywood superstar Denzel Washington leads the cast and supported by Martin Csokas, Chloe Grace Moretz, David Harbour, Bill Pullman, and Melissa Leo. The script is written by Richard Wenk who based it on the TV series from the 1980s which was created by Michael Sloan and Richard Lindheim.

Will a modern version honour the older version? Do read on…

Denzel Washington as Robert McCall

SYNOPSIS:

Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) seems like your ordinary average guy who works a regular job and leads a low profile life. While dining at his regular restaurant, McCall befriends a prostitute named Teri (Chloe Grace Moretz). Teri confides in McCall her troubles and difficulty going through life. One day, McCall sees how bad her life is and decides to secretly take matters into his own hands. By utilizing his skills in one-armed combat and weaponry, McCall goes on a murderous rampage of those bothering Teri. Unknown to McCall, he has opened a can of worms which results in him being hunted by a top Russian assassin named Teddy (Martin Csokas).

Martin Csokas as Teddy and Denzel Washington as Robert McCall

SCRIPT:

Strong but slightly over-the-top. The film’s plot is pretty straight-forward and easy to understand. For a film that is a crime-drama, it doesn’t rely on plot twists to enhance it. From scene to scene, it grows stronger and stronger as it heads into a climactic ending. There were good character establishments for the key roles. As an audience, I got to ‘participate’ in who these characters and what they can potentially become in the course of the film. What makes the script even stronger is the action scenes that were written for the film.

Chloe Grace Moretz as Teri

ACTING:

Stellar performances from Denzel Washington, Martin Csokas, and Chloe Grace Moretz. There were convincing as hero, villain, and victim respectively. Despite Washington headlining the film and playing the solo lead, Csokas played quite a good villainous opposite the hero. I have been a fan of Washington for a long time and him staring in the film is worth buying a ticket.

Washington and Moretz in a scene

 FILMING:

The Equalizer reunites Denzel Washington with his Training Day director Antoine Fuqua. In the movie Training Day, Washington won the Oscar of Best Actor and this partnership was something I was looking forward to. Fuqua directing was once again sublime and brilliant. He manages to combine just enough action and drama to make it good film. Good use in cinematography to give it a gritty look. What I liked about the film is how Fuqua puts some ‘art’ into the violent scenes, The action scenes were a little over-the-top like Bollywood films but I didn’t mind that really, it was fun to watch.

Director Antoine Fuqua on set with Csokas

PACING:

Very slow from the beginning as it tries to establish character and plot. However, it builds up well to a nice climactic ending.

TONE (MOOD):

A mysterious and unlikely hero battles his own demons from the past to wage war against those who oppress the weak in society.

DOWNSIDE:

Slow pacing. Quite a lot of talk that might bore some people.

UPSIDE:

Great action sequences and fantastic performance from Denzel Washington.

OVERALL:

It honours the television series it was adapted from in which the character is mysterious yet very skillful in combat. Great action, good drama, and recommended to watch.

RATING:

8 out of 10