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Avery-WanSacritic
When it comes to writing reviews, I will either put my two cents in or will write from an uninfluenced/unbiased point-of-view. No matter what, though, I will be as honest and forthcoming as possible for the sake of the audience. I have seen countless movies and have read even more reviews. More times than not, I read reviews that do not match my thoughts and watch films that I enjoyed that majority of others did not. Therefore, I take it upon myself to write personal evaluations not only for those who wish to know more about what others thought of a movie before watching it but also for those who share my experience(s).
Ratings
Most Recently Rated
Reviews
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
Well, it's makes a great Halloween Movie
I did not expect the movie to be as spooky as it was, nor did I expect it to be as violent as it was. The cast and crew did a phenomenal job illustrating intense action sequences. I would enjoy watching this movie during the Halloween season. Other than that, my praise for the movie subsides.
I cannot imagine going into this movie as a newcomer to the MCU. It is filled to the brim with Marvel Easter eggs, character drops, and references. I got a thrill from all of these things because I understood and appreciated them. However, if you are new to the MCU, you are at a disadvantage; that includes understanding the backstories leading up to this movie's plot.
As I mentioned earlier that it is more violent than I expected, it pushes the limit of its PG-13 rating. Compared to all of Marvels previous films, this one obviously stands out for its gore. I highly recommend parental guidance or viewer discretion. It is action-packed with every fight scene becoming a spectacle, but this movie only survived because of these (along with all the character introductions and references). To be honest, the plot is weak and predictable with cheesy lines recurring every few minutes. Not to mention, the gay parents that served no purpose to the plot. There was real opportunity here that was left out. Speaking as of right now, they were merely added to be inclusive to a certain population of viewers. Perhaps in another stand alone film the parents will actual effect the plot. If they advanced this plot in any way, then I would not be bagging on them.
I did not have high or low expectations and I am usually a generous reviewer but this movie simply does not excite me enough to rewatch it anytime soon. In fact, this movie seems familiar as if I already saw it. If you want to know what I mean, I suggest watching What If...? Season 1, Episode 4 "What if... Doctor Strange Lost His Heart Instead if His Hands?" for a similar but much better version of this movie's plot.
What If...? (2021)
Pretty Good, All Things Considered
This series opens new doors for the MCU's future potential. There has been animated Marvel series before, but those are off-brand, non-canonical versions with their own plots. This series relies on the movies. It is a unique journey that explores different scenarios based on the canonical movie events. This, in itself, makes for good entertainment, especially for those who have watched the movies over and over. If you are still not impressed, perhaps you will change your mind knowing ninety percent of the MCU actors reprise their role for this animation (Rest In Peace, Chadwick Boseman). This is something that is extremely rare in adaptations.
Like classic MCU fashion, the episode are tied together. It may not seem like it, but they are. Give it time because it is worth it. Just as other TV shows have their dull moments, this one is no exception unfortunately. This series is otherwise very entertaining if you can get past the fact that not every episode is a masterpiece. It ends in a grand Marvel finale with high potential for another season and future Marvel projects. Thus, all things considered, it is a pretty good show.
What If...?: What If... The Watcher Broke His Oath? (2021)
The usual MCU Finale
Every episode is tied together to culminate an epic finale, like in a MCU fashion. Thankfully, it ties them together. It only makes this episode more enjoyable. Besides the typical plot holes involving the infinity stones, this is a solid episode. It also ends off on a happy note (or even a couple happy notes). For those who struggled to get through some of the episodes, this one is worth the wait.
What If...?: What If... Ultron Won? (2021)
What a Masterpiece
I will not spoil anything so I will be brief. The art is beautiful in this one. This tackles a serious question many of us have had at some point: "What if Ultron beat the Avengers?" It has twists. It has turns. It has action. It has emotion. The plot is what many of us have been looking for as compared to some less-than-stellar previous episodes. Plus, they are finally tying in episodes. It is fair noting, though, that there are a few plot holes that may bug you. Other than that, this is truly a masterpiece. I highly recommend watching this episode. Not to mention, I haven't heard anyone complain about it being a waste of time.
What If...?: What If... Thor Were an Only Child? (2021)
Entertaining but Too Childish
It was entertaining. That's it. It was a good break from the gloomy episodes proceeding it. Other than that, it was childish humor. Thor dropped to a new level with his kindergartener personality. I guess that's what happens when a person doesn't grow up with a thought-to-be blood brother. All because him and Loki didn't grow up together, he never matured. What else to talk about? Oh yes, the likeness of the characters. Ninety percent of the MCU characters looked like Market Pantry versions. What's with the downgrade? So far in this series, the characters looked almost identical to their actor counterparts. A bonus though is the fact that the cast was maxed out with the actual MCU actors. At least the ending had a real "What If...?" consequence that had potential. Hopefully they tie it in some how.
What If...?: What If... Killmonger Rescued Tony Stark? (2021)
Not the Episode I Expected but a Welcomed One
I was expecting more Tony Stark instead of Killmonger but the plot was just as worth it. A great scenario about Killmonger joining forces with Tony Stark and the consequences of that happening. The real major consequence is Iron Man not being born. It's all doom and gloom from there as Killmonger walks on the road to achieving revenge. It does end with hope and a quick remark about heroes and their inspiration.
What If...?: What If... Zombies?! (2021)
Light-hearted Zombie Flick
Lots of zombies. Lots of gore. Lots of jokes. Any zombie lover will enjoy this episode. It's not as sad as it could have been, too. The thing that bugs me is the heroes have to kill their infected best friends but they have no remorse. They even crack jokes in the meantime. It also ends with a great cliffhanger that will make viewers want more. The zombie Avengers concept had potential and this episode reached 70% potential.
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
Tradition Meets Modern
I was blown away by the great storyline from start to finish, amazing choreography, stunning visuals, and surreal locales. It's happy, it's sad, it's funny, it's touching. It knows when to be serious and knows when to be hilarious. The blend between the classic Asian traditions and the modern world was a definite bonus. Plus, it focuses on a blend between mythical and natural. Besides that, it ties into the MCU seamlessly. The movie thankfully explains a connection between the faux Ten Rings in the Iron Man movies and the actual Ten Rings. I also enjoyed all of the Easter eggs. This movie was worth the wait.
What If...?: What If... The World Lost Its Mightiest Heroes? (2021)
Whodunnit
I like the inspiration from "Fury's Big Week" which ties together the events of Iron Man 2, Incredible Hulk, and Thor. But, this adds a twist. The fact that we are on the edge of our seat trying to figure out who or what is killing our soon-to-be-Avengers makes it a great episode. Sure they left out the most important clue (the actual inciting incident) but that would have spoiled the whole story. It was also exciting to see Hank Pym as his Yellowjacket persona.
What If...?: What If... Doctor Strange Lost His Heart Instead of His Hands? (2021)
Dark but Great Message
Great emotions, great plot, great what-if scenario. It'll pull at your heart as Doctor Strange attempts to change an event that cannot be undone. Quite the spectacle, too, with all the magic in this episode.
What If...?: What If... T'Challa Became a Star-Lord? (2021)
Enjoyable Robin Hood Episode
Tells a fresh story with sprinkles of the original movie instead of a retelling with a few tweaks. It has fun cameos, entertaining twists, and feel-good storytelling to name a few. It's great to have a bunch of the original cast, yet it was almost hard to tell if some of them were the real deal without looking at the cast. Not to mention, most of the characters are out-of-character. However, this does not by any means take away from this outstanding episode. Overall, a charming chain of events as we say farewell to Chadwick Boseman who plays a lovable Star Lord.
What If...?: What If... Captain Carter Were the First Avenger? (2021)
A Reasonable, Action-Packed, Gender-Swapped, Fast-Paced, What-If Scenario
Overall, I give it a B rating. The animation is great and easy to get use to. The voice acting is decent but could be better, except Hayley Atwell stands out as presenting the best and most convincing character voice. It is a bonus to have almost all of the actors reprise their roles. Unfortunately, Chris Evans did not come back as skinny Rogers but it is worth noting that Marvel voice acting veteran Josh Keaton played the role phenomenally. As a fan of the MCU Captain America movies, I personally enjoyed the numerous Easter eggs from Captain America: The First Avenger (CA:FA) hidden in this episode (the eggs were spread throughout the dialogue most of the time). After all, this episode is almost an exact replica of the original. I am enthusiastic about the Watcher's involvement and his Rod-Serling-like narration. Everything mentioned thus far compels me to grant this episode a generous 8 star rating.
I cannot go higher because of a few main reasons. Many people agree that the pace is way too fast. There is no time to breathe as the story fits 2 hours worth of events into 30 minutes. There is no time for explanations such as why Captain Carter is given Union Jack's outfit or why Howard generously machined an Iron Man armor for Steve. You'll have to watch CA:FA for a better understanding. Basically, if you have watched CA:FA before this episode, things should make sense (plus you will enjoy the Easter eggs like me). Moving on, what about the other person that just recently took on the mantle of Captain America (albeit, Peggy's name is Captain Carter)? There is a whole tv show about Sam Wilson owning the Captain America status as an African American and all the challenges and repercussions that come along with it. This episode slightly tackles equality for women but honestly does not have a greater impact, not to mention possibly slighting the impact of Sam Wilson as the new Cap. Obviously, this episode is just a what-if scenario so it is not trying to permanently replace Cap. It was entertaining to watch Peggy launch people into the air, though. There are a bunch of pro and cons to this episode and I do not want to go any deeper into the matter, so I will leave a generous 8 star rating based on the variables analyzed above.
The Mandalorian: Chapter 14: The Tragedy (2020)
The Tragedies
This episode is titled "The Tragedy" and is actually a fitting title. However, there are multiple tragedies, so then again, perhaps the title should of been "The Tragedies". Let's break down some of the main tragedies I witnessed. (Side Note: This is a negative review supported by facts and common sense. So, if you don't like the truth and just want to enjoy this entertaining episode as it is, avert your attention.)
First of all, the real tragedy is the utter obliteration of the beloved Razor Crest (which took quite the beating in the beginning of the season and was recently repaired, not to mention). That was a tragedy, but jokes aside, the tragedy referred to in the title is Grogu (or Baby Yoda, Kid, the Child, which ever suites you) kidnapped by the ever-so intimidating Dark Troopers. Yeah, yeah, we all know the team will get Grogu back, but it is indeed still tragic!
Since we are on this subject, what about the tragedy of the Dark Troopers? No intense battle sequence? For the anticipation rising for these menacing killers, the first time the audience sees them in action, they leave as quick as they came. I'm not saying that's the only time the audience will see of them, but for their first time seen in live-action, they should of thrown a few punches before blasting off.
Why send the expensive Dark Troopers to do a stormtrooper's job. One, stormtroopers don't have jetpacks (or do they? Hint, hint) so exfil would have been more tasking. Second, stormtroopers can't be trusted to get anything done! Just within this episode, they got massacred by a dead markswoman and a hobo with a stick (Side Note: no offense to Boba Fett's incredible fighting skills and live-action comeback. In addition, all of his battle sequences are the reason for my high rating).
Their aim is the typical Star Wars logic, since they can't hit a single living target except when: A) the targets are side/background/unimportant characters and B) the target is Din Djarin in his beskar armor. Seriously? This is the second time (I think) the audience has seen stormtrooper accuracy go from 0% to 200% when they are shooting at Djarin's armor. As cool as it is witnessing him getting shot up without a scratch, it is utterly ridiculous logic. Need I mention the fact that they have blasters but instead charge at a markswoman to melee her! I truly do enjoy the Star Wars universe but this is getting out of hand.
I won't even get into how Djarin made a fool out of himself trying to break Grogu free of his force trance. Therefore, I'll conclude with the other way Djarin made a fool out of himself.
The last tragedy I'll talk about is the tragedy that caused the rest of the tragedies. It is by far the worst plot hole and screenwriting I know of, as compared to the rest of the series. That blasted jet pack. The whole reason for the following events was because of that jet pack. Why did Boba Fett ask him to take it off? That was an awkward thing to do. Why didn't Djarin reacquire it? The audience has seen him control it which his wrist controls. Did he simply forget about it? "Hmm. Golly! I wish I had a quicker way getting back to Grogu before he is taken." What a fool. This is completely unbelievable writing. It's not impossible to go with this plot such as the jet pack was temporarily damaged or his wrist controls were fried but the way the plot was executed, I cannot stress enough about how poorly it was done. Like I referenced, as seen with the other episodes, Jon Favreau has done an amazing job at writing this series. Perhaps there is a deleted scene that fills this plot whole or there is some grand explanation for why Boba Fett even uttered his command to take off the jet pack.
I apologize for this rather lengthy review but it is an utmost importance to bring these errors to the surface. They shouldn't be allowed to get away with feeding us this garbage amongst what has been-and understandably is-a delicious series.
The Mandalorian: Chapter 13: The Jedi (2020)
Another Great But Usual Episode
This episode is great for the special effects that bring the action to life, the camera directions that properly establish the mood the scene demands, and the character development, to name a few. Star Wars fans will definitely enjoy this episode.
However, this episode is usual in the sense that it is like the other previous episode layouts: the Mandalorian needs help, some character is introduced, that someone is willing to help if and only if he helps them, then they only help him a little and tell him to go somewhere else for further help, and we do not see that someone again. This strategy may be fine once or twice but, at this point, there are too many characters (especially fan favorites) introduced only to be scene or heard once. What this really means is, the audience is seeing less and less of the main characters in the world of The Mandalorian series and is instead given little tastes here and there of promising future characters and storylines.
With that said, the season is not over, so it is difficult to know just how significant all the characters and storylines are. Especially with this episode (if you watched this episode, you know who all I'm talking about). Hear me out, I did enjoy this episode and am eager to see the final outcome of future episodes. I simply feel it is crucial to mention the topics said above.
The Mandalorian: Chapter 10: The Passenger (2020)
Entertaining, yes... Purposeful, no.
If you are looking for a way to pass time or to have a relaxing night, this episode would be a good choice.
The special and practical effects are superior. There are Easter eggs for the fans. The Star Wars magic is definitely present.
However, looking for the next exciting episode in the second season of the Mandalorian, honestly, you might be left bummed out. In the beginning of the episode, the plot moving forward seemed promising. It did not follow through. This episode hardly added to the current storyline and instead had a sidetrack story. It did move toward the overall goal nevertheless.
Finally, I'll forewarn some viewers that the main "evil" creatures may be frightening.
The Mandalorian: Chapter 9: The Marshal (2020)
Feels like Star Wars
This season is off to a great start! The action sequences, the story, the detail in costumes and settings, even the multitude of Easter eggs, remind me of how much I enjoy Star Wars. This episode is better than many previous episodes combined. I had goosebumps the whole time and look forward to the rest of the season.
The Mandalorian: Chapter 3: The Sin (2019)
Wow. Just Wow.
What a intense and enjoyable episode. The character development and action sequences take this episode to a higher level. The connection growing between the Child and the Mandalorian make it difficult to not to like these characters, especially the Mandalorian. Who knew the tough guy had a soft spot? As the Client said, "How uncharacteristic..." With this relationship between the two and the whole escape sequences, this episode has the audience on the edge of their seat (for most if not the whole episode).
The Mandalorian: Chapter 2: The Child (2019)
New Mindset
I had the impression that all Mandalorians were feared and incredibly skilled. However, this is not the case. This episode opened my eyes to see that they are skilled, but they are not always the best of the best. In the world of The Mandalorian, this episode helps establish some character traits and flaws of the Mandalorian character that only make him more dynamic; the same goes for the Child. Overall entertaining episode and a deeper look/feel into the environment of Star Wars.
The Mandalorian: Chapter 1: The Mandalorian (2019)
I changed my mind
The first time I watched this episode, I honestly thought it was boring/slow. Then, I rewatched it and realized it's better than previously thought. This episode is slow, sure, but it naturally sets up the setting, environment, and tone of the whole tv show that is vital to the audience to better understand and be immersed into the world of The Mandalorian. I suggest just watching it and know that the tv show gets better and better.
The Chosen (2017)
Fresh
I have seen films with their interpretation of the Gospels and I must say, this is a breathe of fresh air. This series offers new perspectives on characters I knew of and settings I have not given too much thought about. The introduction of characters and their developments flow together smoothly. Speaking of characters, the actors portray their respective characters in a way that is believable and relatable. Even the Roman soldiers are reasonable (within the limits of the rating, of course). Story-wise, it is a fresh point-of-view. I never thought about how Biblical chapters could be out of order or combined/separated, for example. The audience is definitely immersed into the world of 26 A.D. Capernaum, not to mention the worlds of the flashbacks that boost the story. Kudos to all the cast and crew for a compelling and inspiring entertainment of the beginning ministry of Jesus. I definitely would recommend this series and I look forward to a second season.
The Chosen: I Have Called You by Name (2019)
New Perspective
I'm not going to lie, at first I was bored and lost. Then, as the show went on I came to the realization that it is actually setting up the characters and environment of the series quite well, giving the audience a new perspective. In addition, it displays background information in such a way that I never thought of or about these main characters. Since the episode has an underlying focus on Mary of Magdalene, it is important to note her character development. The rather frightening scene of her possession helps the audience see how radical her transformation is once Jesus steps in.
A Triumph of the Heart: The Ricky Bell Story (1991)
Watch It.
I found this movie to be inspirational and a feel-good film. It is that simple. I recommend watching it if you know where to obtain it (I came across it on Netflix). This movie has happy, sad, and funny segments, but most importantly, it gives you good morals to leave with. A story of perseverance and overcoming problems. On a side note, I enjoyed the technique of integrating real-game footage into the scenes as if it was all filmed for the movie. Forewarning though, the movie does contain some bad language and one particular scene has a couple lying in a bathtub together (nothing explicit is shown). Other than that, I completely enjoyed the movie.
Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002)
Attack of the Reviews
I hear/see negative comments left and right about this movie and it seems difficult to find someone who has reasons to watch this movie. Perhaps I will share good reasons to watch. (Disclaimer: I will attempt to avoid using spoilers. Therefore, I apologize if I am unclear or mysterious in some sections of my review.)
This is hands down in my top three favorites of the 9-movie saga. The main reason why? I will get to later. For now, let me explain the elephant in the room: romance. Whether it will be your first time watching or your seventeenth time watching, you will be bombarded by the level of romance in this episode. Most viewers I talk to find it boring. However, I must say, the romance is actually necessary. It drives an important plot point. If the romance was not included the way it was, viewers would have difficulty understanding the actions and motives of characters. Even more, the romance between characters will segue into the next episode which will lead to the birth of Luke and Leia Skywalker, who are fundamentally the most important characters in the following movies.
Now, though they enter the action way late into the movie, the clone army is also important to the plot. Although, the clone army is more important in the prequel trilogy rather than in all the trilogies. I cannot write too much more about them without spoiling information, therefore just note that the clones are and will be very important in the next episode. What I can write is this movie helps set up events for Episode III. There is simply not enough room to fit all of this story into one movie (Episode III is packed full of story as is).
Finally, the main reason why I enjoy this movie is simple: I really like the clones. Why? I will keep it short. Their phase I armor is appealing, their voices are iconic, they fight with the good guys, they are an ideal army, and they are given more in-depth backgrounds. None of the succeeding stormtroopers compare to the clone troopers. Not to mention the short-lived but epic battle sequence at the end between the clones/Jedi and the droids. Another reason why I prefer this movie is because it takes place before everything goes down hill within the prequel trilogy. Without writing any major spoilers, Episode III: Revenge of the Sith has a much darker tone throughout the film. Bad events happen to characters I like. It of course helps drive the plot in Episode III but that is not the point because I am not here to critique another movie.
As reviews constantly attack this film, hopefully you find this review helpful as to why this movie is worth watching more than once and to appreciate why the movie is the way that it is.
Winsanity (2016)
Putting the "insanity" in "Winsanity"
The things I enjoy about this game show: It is a neat idea of how everyone can win something (contestant as well as the audience), and I did learn some fun facts here and there. Now, the things I did not enjoy. They put the "insanity" in "Winsanity." Everyone seemed to be purposely too hyper, and it became an annoyance after a while. Worst of all, the show is filled to the brim with various innuendos and politically biased humor. Not to mention, it is only rated TV-G (according to Netflix)! That means my kids could watch this and see/hear junk that I would say is too mature for the rating. I would not recommend anyone to watch this, and I hope this version of the game show stays canceled.
Flywheel (2003)
A "Must-See" Movie for You and Your Family
First things first: this was filmed on a shoestring budget by members of a church. It does not contain "professional" actors and the filming equipment used was anything besides the best.
However, putting aside these criticisms, the storyline and the spirit of this movie qualifies it as a "must-see." You will laugh, you will cry, and you will be impacted by life lessons. I have seen my fair share of church-made films, but they do not compare to "Flywheel." According to footage behind the scenes, the cast and crew prayed a lot for the movie to come together and be a blessing to anyone who watched it. I do not know about you, but I have never heard of a film crew doing such, especially in Hollywood. "Flywheel" is all around a breath of fresh air in the industry and what the world needs right now. With God's help, the film became even more successful than anyone would have imagined.
In conclusion, if you can ignore the fact that they had only $20,000 to work with (along with improvisations including a homemade dolly, working around the car dealer's schedule, and refilming do to lost footage in post-production), then I suggest you give this movie a chance. Who knows, you might learn a thing or two.