Are We Prepared? Independence Day: Resurgence #moviereviews
Twenty years after the first and the aliens are back for revenge. I give this movie a B+.
We beat the aliens on July 4th, 1996 and used their technology to bring peace among the world. Now twenty years later, the aliens want revenge and this time, they are bigger than before. Only a few brave men and women stand in defense as they set out to protect the planet and destroy the 'mother' of the hive. (Think Star Trek's Borg)
​Featuring many nods as well as characters from the original movie, Resurgence tells the story of the next generation…the children of the past heroes, from Will Smith's son to the former president's daughter. They are called on to save the planet. We also have the comic relief from Brent Spiner as Dr. Brakish Okun who many thought died in the first movie. From his erratic behavior to unique fashion style, he keeps you laughing.
​Judd Hirsch and Jeff Goldblum are funny as the father and son Levinsons, who fuss over a lack of grandchildren and end up adopting a group of children. Without these two characters, the movie would haven't been as good.
​There's a lot going on in this movie. Many people have complained about how it felt like everything and the kitchen sink was thrown in. Yet, it keeps up a fast paced action as well as hits the themes of family and love. From the former president putting his life in danger to interrogate the alien prisoners to the fight between his daughter and him over who will give their life in a suicide mission to take down the queen.
​Just like many science fiction movies, you have to go with the flow and not over analyze things. For example, the Earth's pilots are able to fly the alien ships without any training. They climb in and are all ready to go. So turn off your brain, just sit back and enjoy the ride!
Good or Bad Memories of High School? Central Intelligence #moviereview
​What was your defining moment in High School? One moment can impact someone else in so many ways… This is the premise of Central Intelligence. I'm giving it a B.
​Central High School's 20th reunion is coming up. The star of the class feels disappointed in his seemingly going nowhere life. But when he "friends" a former classmate Bob Stone on Facebook, his life takes an unusual turn.
​Bob Stone used to be the fat kid that everyone bullied. The only person who ever helped him was Calvin Joyner (The Golden Jet). This story plays out like a bad high school memory as the nerd and the star athlete and scholar end up trying to save the USA from terrorists who want to steal the encryption codes.
​Add in mysterious CIA agents who threaten everyone and some stumbling hijinks and you have a suspenseful comedy. Dwayne Johnson plays Bob Stone with a glint of crazy in his eye. At one point during the movie, you aren't sure if he is a bad guy, the good guy or just pulling the biggest prank ever! Poor Kevin Hart is the straight man in this movie. He's thrown out a building, shot and even kissed by The Rock.
​Ultimately, this movie is about two unlikely friends who have grown and changed since High School, yet remained true to who they are. With surprise cameos by a few bigger name stars, the movie will have you laughing out loud and maybe…just maybe giving your old friend from high school a call!
Warcraft Fans Find Movie More Exciting #moviereviews
​Disney made millions off a series of movies based on Amusement Park rides, it's only fair that Blizzard Entertainment steps up with their much beloved game Warcraft. Of course, it happens to help if you've actually played the game. I'm giving two grades for this movie…B+ for those people who love the game and a C for those who've never played it before.
​The world is ending due to the death magic used to create stronger Orcs and with the help of their shaman/warlock, a war party leaves their world and arrives in Azeroth, a human led realm much like the kingdoms of old where swords and knights abound.
​Two strong men try to do what is right for their people. Durotan, an Orc and new father sees the evil of Gul'dan and tries to strike a deal with Llane, King of Azeroth. But not everything or everyone is as they seem…treachery abounds and sacrifices are made.
​This move takes place prior to the first game and the gamers love the secrets that the movie shows, things which they know are important in their world. For non-gamers, the CGI graphics and world building is cool (reminiscent of Lord of the Rings) as well as not being able to see the evil until they've struck. Many fans commented on the smallness of the characters used. There are so many more in the world than shown in this film but it sets the whole game into motion.
​This movie will certainly be one for fans of the games more than for non-fans but it does entertain. Use it as a chance to bond with your children and enjoy a night out with them…or maybe this will make a wonderful holiday gift. Either way, the ending leaves it open for more stories whether in the World of Warcraft game or on the big screen.
Romantic Movie Which Will Leave You Ranting #tearjerker
​Me Before You is a chick flick of epic proportions. With romance, drama and a handsome rich hero, it makes a perfect movie night with some skinny mimosas. I'm giving it a B.
​Will Traynor has everything he wants at his fingertips, a stunning girlfriend, a glamourous career and more money than you can shake a stick at. But when he's confined to a wheelchair after an accident, his life is completely changed. Enter Louisa Clarke who needs a job but isn't skilled for much. Her family is relying on her to keep their home over their heads since her father lost his job.
​Will and Louisa are opposites which attract, her quirky upbeat attitude and his sour disposition. She brings him out of his depressive shell. And here comes the romantic part…they fall in love. However, she is unable to do the one thing he is determined to do, which breaks her heart.
​This movie has some of the best lines as Louisa shows Will that she would have been invisible to him had he not been injured. Sometimes, it takes a change in our world view to see what is best for us. Then there's Will's whispered pledge to her… "Sometimes, Clark, you are pretty much the only reason I want to get up in the morning." Louisa's crazy outfits and determination make you fall in love with her. Will's charming lines and need to push Louisa into really experiencing life make you love him.
​Now for the bad…I hated the ending, even though I knew what it was before I ever stepped foot into the theater. I was angry at Will for the stupid choice he made and for his lack of courage. I was also mad at Louisa for not standing up to her boyfriend and taking the easy way out herself. But then again, I write romance so I believe in a happily ever after and that love can conquer everything.
​If you are planning to see this movie (and I will probably see it again on DVD, because who doesn't love a good romance), bring tissues.