The Amazing Spider-Man 2 Review: Too Tangled of A Web

Written By: Klancy

I like Spider-man. In fact, if I am being completely honest, if it were not for Spider-man, I probably would never have become a fan of superheroes or comic books. While he may no longer be my favorite superhero, I still have a lot of love for the character, and would want nothing more than to be able to recommend this movie to all of you. But I can’t.

That’s not to say that this is a terrible movie, it’s just not a particularly good one. The reason for this is simple. Too many subplots. There is no way that I can understate this, there is too much happening in this movie, Game of Thrones has less stuff going on. As a result the movie doesn't feel like it has an overarching storyline, but instead just jumps from plot point to plot point. In many ways, this feels like Iron Man 2’s second act. More interested in setting up a sequel than telling a good story. Scenes that are supposed to have an emotional impact feel rushed and empty. The biggest example of this is the films climax, but I don’t want to spoil anything for anyone.

All of the actors do their best, but there is nothing here that truly stands out. Stone and Garfield still have an excellent chemistry together, but you can’t help but feel their relationship is just treading water. Newcomer Dane Dehaan probably fairs the best, but he’s characters development is so rushed you never truly feel like you know Harry Osborn. The films other main villain, Electro, meanwhile is quite possible the single most boring villain to the screen in some time. Which is a shame, because he’s character is given several scenes to introduce the character early on, but nothing sticks with you.

On the plus side, the film has some really good action scenes, and this probably is the best web swinging we've seen on film to date. Also major props Hans Zimmer, as this is he’s best score in years, with the standout being Electro theme. 

Wrapping things up, this is a film that is on the edge of being good. With a tighter script and shorter run time, it could have been great. But as is, I don’t feel comfortable recommending it to anyone. If you’re a fan of Spider-man, you may want to wait for DVD, but if you decide to pass on it I can hardly blame you.

I give The Amazing Spider-man 2 a 2.5 out of 5.

Captain America: The Winter Solider Review – A True Marvel

Written By: Klancy

Any long time moviegoer knows this simple truth. There are movies that you walk away feeling good about and there are movies that you walk away feeling bad about. Then there are those that you just walk away in aw of. Captain America: The Winter Solider is one of those movies. To simply state that it is the best film in Marvel’s Second Phase would be grossing understating it. This is not just a solid superheroes movie, this is one of the strongest the genre has ever created. It may be too soon say whether or not it surpasses the Avengers, but if not it is a close second. 

Starting off this is a very different film for Marvel, and is in many ways for most friendly for the audience who normally doesn't enjoy for your typical super hero film. While the elements are still present I would call this a political thriller first, and super hero film second. This opens up a completely new audience for the studio while not alienating the old one. Of course being a political thriller, it’s a hard movie to discuss without spoilers, and I don’t want to be that guy. But rest assured, this may be Marvel’s strongest script to date.

Chris Evans continues to remind everyone why he was perfect for the role of Captain America and Scarlett Johansson is still enjoyable as the Black Widow. Saying that Robert Redford is good in a movie seems rather pointless, as the man is a legend for a reason, and he brings a depth to his character that I was not expecting to see. Samuel L. Jackson once again returns Nick Fury, in easily he’s best appearance to date. This is the first time since the start of the MCU that we have had a chance to delve into his character, and adds layers to his character that have been missing in previous films. 

Without a doubt the break out characters of this film are Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson aka the Falcon and the villainous Winter Solider. In the hands of lesser screen writers, Sam Wilson could have easily been a one note character, meant solely for comic relief, but that is not the case here. Sam comes across a fully fleshed out character, and his relationship with Steve Rogers feel genuine. This is a star making role Mackie, who I expect to see in a lot more projects in the near future. Also I would regret it if I didn’t mention this, but those wings he uses are easily the coolest thing since the original Iron Man suit. The Winter Solider meanwhile comes across as the single most menacing villain since the start of the Marvel universe. I’m super curious to see where they take his character in the future, because by the end you will be begging for more. 

Rounding out the cast are Emily VanCamp as Agent 13 and Frank Grillo as Brock Rumlow. Both are given supporting roles, and do will in their roles while also setting up further development in future films. 

This film was directed by the Russo Brothers, marking their first big budget action movie. Though to be honest, you will not be able to tell, as they take to it like old pros. This film boast some incredible action scenes that leave your jaw on the floor. Yes, there is some shaky cam, but it it’s also the best use of shaky cam since the original Bourne trilogy. The audience are still able to clearly see what is going, and the effect adds to chaos of the fights. Furthermore, the Russo Brothers are very smart in its use, using it just enough to get the effect without overstaying it’s welcome. If more directors had used this style of filming making as shown here nobody would ever had complain about it to begin with.

Rounding things out this film has an excellent score, possibly the best Marvel has ever had. The film may have a run time of over two hours, but it is so perfectly paced you won’t be able to tell. Is it a flawless film? No, there is no such thing as a perfect movie, but this one comes pretty darn close. Without a doubt Captain America: The Winter Solider is destined to become regarded in the same way Terminator 2 and Aliens are, as sequels which already have an extremely solid base, but took things to a level nobody was expecting. It is my pleasure to give this movie 5 Captain America Shields out of 5.

Timdiana the Reviews: Top 5 Reasons To Like/Dislike Man of Steel

Timdiana returns after a long hiatus. He is join by James of Manic Expression to discuss the controversial 2013 blockbuster: Man of Steel. Find out what the duo both like and hate about Man of Steel

Transformers Age of Extinction Trailer Review

Well the day has come. I figured there would be at least another month before this was released, but I guess I was wrong. Hitting the web today is the first trailer to Transformers: Age of Extinction. This film marks the fourth in the franchise. The new film sees Michael Bay in the director's chair yet again. However this time we will be seeing a whole new cast; not to mention new transformers including the Dinobots. Now before continuing, let me explain something. I HATE this series. Some may say they despise it, but it fails in comparison with my hatred. So you can imagine that this movie would to do a lot to sway me. However, did this trailer change my mind?

As trailers go, I will say that Age of Extinction's preview is not a bad one. The trailer does its jobs at making this summer blockbuster look exciting. However, I have seen this tactic from this franchise. before For the last film, Dark of the Moon, the trailer was outstanding and it was hard not be excited for movie. Unfortunately, the final results to the film did not live up to the trailer's hype. I see the same thing in this trailer. With that said, while I thought some things looked intriguing, I couldn't shake the notion that I have seen all of this before. These shots, these theme, it is all too familiar. Where have I seen them? Why in the past three films. So this realization is not helping my skepticism.

I really don't want to be that guy that says"This movie is going suck" before the film comes out. However, I can't  help but be suspicious about Age of Extinction; and this trailer is not helping. So while this trailer makes it seem that we are in for an entertaining blockbuster, I will say what said seven years ago: proceed with caution.

Transformers: Age of Extinction hits theaters on June 27.

But wait, the trailer features Optimus Prime punching a t-rex in the face. Ok, I'll admit, that's kind of cool. 

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 International Trailer Review

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 kicks off the summer lineup this year, and being almost three months away, it is safe to say that we're getting a lot of content for the film. The latest on the film is a three minute international trailer. Now seeing that this trailer is a three minutes, I was a little skeptic to watch. The reason being goes all the back to 2007 when Sony Pictures release a super trailer for Spider-Man 3. The preview gave every plot point and did no favors for the third installment when it hit theaters. So I was worried that this new trailer did the same thing. Was that the case for the new trailer for The Amazing Spider-Man 2? 

With my skepticism about a three minute trailer, I came out actually liking this video. Sure it was three minutes, but the preview does a great job at showing you this big blockbuster film and not really spoiling anything. For those of you wondering, there is new footage within the trailer. A few lines here, an extra clips, but honestly there is nothing in this trailer that I would consider being a called a spoiler. In my opinion, it's a good mix of a solid trailer

The music of the trailer is phenomenal. We get a quick preview of Hans Zimmer's score at the beginning of the trailer. Then the preview goes into full epic gear with the preview be accompanied by a  modern choir.All and all, the music only intensified the theme behind this major preview.  

It's hard not to be excited for this film after seeing this trailer. It looks as those this new Spider-Man franchise is upping the scale as everything, from the action to the overall scope of the film, just feels bigger. If you haven't seen the trailer yet, I recommend it. In fact, push the play button now!

S.C Blog: Who to Cast: Doctor Strange

S.C Blog: Who to Cast: Doctor Strange:

Welcome to another edition of Who To Cast. In this blog series, we at Something Cinematic look at a character to either an upcoming fil...

Stephen Amell discusses an appearances in Justice League. Why Amell in Justice League Would Be Good!

Earlier today, news was released that Arrow star Stephen Amell was approached by Warner Bros about appearing in the upcoming Justice League project. No doubt Amell would be playing the Emerald Archer Green Arrow and there by connecting the CW series with the DC cinematic universe. The statement went as followed:

"All we have to do for something like that to happen, or even be a possibility, is continue to take care of business with our show and then we put ourselves in a position – but the important thing is our show. I have had discussions, but I think the gestation process for this project is a lot slower than most people think. I mean, they haven't even shot the next one. They haven't even shot a frame of the movie before the movie everyone thinks is the Justice League movie!"

Unfortunately, Amell went on his Facebook Page to comment further about this story and coming to the conclusion that the discussion was false:

"At no point, have I had 'studio level' discussions about any feature films at Warner Bros."

So no, Stephen Amell will not be reprising his role as Green Arrow for Justice League.  How do I feel about this? Well to be honest, I think it's disappointing. The idea of meshing Arrow with the upcoming DC Cinematic Universe seems like a good idea. For starters, a lot of people acknowledge Stephen Amell as Green Arrow. So it wouldn't be hard for moviegoers to see Amell's Green Arrow in a movie. The other thing that could be benefited in connecting the two universes is just the idea of continuity. While the creators of Arrow have their own vision for the Green Arrow story, it wouldn't be that difficult to connect the world of the television series to a movie that features Batman or Superman. I think it would be a harmless transition and would only benefit DC Comics as a whole.

Well perhaps there is more to this story then just this speculation. Maybe there is a chance that Amell will appear in DC Cinematic Universe as Green Arrow. So here's hoping this disapproval of this story is just WB saying "we need to be hush-hush about this and not let this info get leaked". Considering the studios track record, I'm probably wrong. Still, I can dream can't I? 

Fantastic Four Reboot Script Complete! Where is this film going?

Word comes from Variety that the script for the upcoming Fantastic Four Reboot  has been completed. According to the report, screenwriter Simon Kinberg has finished the second draft to the script and the film should be getting underway in production. The report also mentions that character testing should be commencing by the end of the month.

Miles Teller is just one of the stars testing for Mr.Fantastic

What I was wondering to hear about was the direction of the story. I was hoping to get an idea of the film's concept. Sadly, I got nothing from this story. The only hint of direction I've gotten are the casting choices. Seeing names like Saorise Ronan as the Invincible Woman and Kit Harington as Mr.Fantastic suggest that the movie is looking for a younger group. I don't know how I feel about that. All I can say is if Kinberg can make a younger Fantastic Four work, I can accept it. 

We can only hope that we get some answers about this reboot sometime soon. However there is plenty of time before now and next June, so we will just have to wait and see where the Fantastic Four reboot goes.

Wait...Kit Harrington as Mr.Fantastic? Go for it Twentieth Century Fox! What? I'm a Game of Thrones fan. 

The Fate of Mary Jane Watson. Will Woodley play MJ in The Amazing Spider-Man 3?

Last summer, we learned that director Marc Webb decided cut the role of Mary Jane Watson from the upcoming Amazing Spider-Man 2. The iconic love interest of Peter Parker, who was going to be played by Shailene Woodley, was scheduled to have a small part in the sequel. However Webb decided to cut MJ's scene in order to further explore the relationship of Peter and Gwen. So with Mary Jane out of The Amazing Spider-Man 2, fans could only expect to her in The Amazing Spider-Man 3; right? Well according to some reports, that might not be the case.

Woodley in Divergent, hitting theaters this March. 

While it isn't confirmed, sources are saying that Mary Jane Watson may not appear in The Amazing Spider-Man 3; or at least Shailene Woodley may not be appearing. The report from mstarz suggest that Woodley's fate in the third film is the up in the air. This issue is not because of anything like Webb completely changing his mind or the studio not wanting to see Woodley as MJ. The problem the film is facing is Woodley's schedule. Shailene Woodley headlines the next blockbuster from Lionsgate, Divergent, which will be hitting theaters this March. The movie based on the popular book series already has its sequels green lit. This could mean that Woodley will be extremely busy with this upcoming franchise, which could lead to her not appearing in The Amazing Spider-Man 3. 

Will Shailene Woodley play MJ?

So what will become of MJ? Will the filmmakers drop the character all together from the film? While this depends on a decision from Sony, Marc Webb and Shaielene Woodley,  I think MJ is sticking around for the third film. She is too major of a character to just get rid of. If it come to it, I'm sure the filmmakers will just recast Mary Jane Watson, but that's only if Shailene Woodley decides not to take up the role. Unless Webb and company decide to make Black Cat the female lead in the third Spider-Man film. 

In any case, I do hope Shailene decides to stick with the role. While I won't complain if Woodley does drop out of the film due to scheduling conflicts, I think she would be great as Mary Jane Watson. Seeing her in the likes of The Spectacular Now showed me that she more then capable to play a strong female role. So all I can do is hope for the best in this situation; but until we can get more information, we will have to wait and see what will be the fate of Mary Jane Watson in The Amazing Spider-Man 3. 

Hulk goes Green? Mark Ruffalo's suggest an Eco-Friendly Film for Hulk.

Could the Hulk get another movie?

Apparently if the Hulk gets his own standalone, the Avenger will be going green (and I don't mean the color of his skin). In a interview with Total Film, actor Mark Ruffalo talked about the possibility of Marvel Studios green lighting a standalone Hulk film; and if they did, he would like it to go in a different direction.

"as artists we have an ability to reach a lot of people in a deep way, and we have a responsibility. What we have to do as storytellers is to take science and make it relatable. I think we have to tell the story of the positive and what we're going to try to do. Give them alternatives but don't make it a polemic."

Can Bruce Banner save the world, from itself?

The jokes of an eco-friendly Hulk are no doubt infinite, but lets get to the point. I am sure that Ruffulo means well, but this is never an easy thing to do. If you want to give your movie a certain message, you have handle your theme with the best of care so that it doesn't feel like you are preaching to audience. On the other hand, in this case, trying to put an eco-friendly spin on the film could more difficult then usual. Why? Because this isn't just another movie. This is a movie featuring The Hulk.  Hulk cleaning up the world is one thing; but unless he is smashing things, audiences won't buy it.

Before the Hulk can fight the likes of the pollution, there is one thing obstacle for the green (no pun intented) superhero mus. Aside from getting green lit, Marvel has to find a way to make a solid Hulk film; one that can get all moviegoers behind it. That should be the first priority for a Hulk standalone film. 

The bottom line is this: if Mark Ruffalo and Marvel Studios can make a Hulk movie with a eco-friendly theme and be able to make it work for the character, then I will no problem seeing it. However, the first thing to do is get another Hulk movie off the ground. Then we can talk about the planeteer known as Hulk. 

Batman vs Superman pushed back to 2016! The Pro and Cons.

The anticipated blockbuster gets pushed back a year....I'll let it sink in

Yesterday, Warner Bros announced that their anticipated film, Batman vs Superman, will not be heading to theaters in the summer of 2015. Instead, the film has been rescheduled to hit theaters 2016; with the current date being May 6th. Like most of WB's decision about this movie, the news  received massive backlash; and perhaps rightfully so. So like most movie topics, I'm going to stay neutral and look at why moving Batman vs Superman to 2016 is both a good idea and a bad one.

Cons:

The first question I have to ask Warner Bros is what exactly happened? Here we were, 7 months ago, with the announcement that Superman and Batman were going to be in a movie together for the first time and for one was hyped. Now, we have to wait a good two and half years before the big crossover happens. More to the point is what could have happen for Warner Bros to make a such a bold change. AMC Movie Talk's John Campea said that Warner Bros dropped the ball on this one; and I have no argument there.  When it comes down to it, Warner Bros screwed up. How they screwed up is unknown, but somewhere in these past 7 months, the studios made an error of judgement. This has been a major problem with Warner Bros. When it comes to creating a lineup of DC comic-book movies, WB has had no long term plans. This latest story is just an example of this problem. Then again, it is not like WB announced that they weren't doing the movie. That would have been a suicide a different caliber.

Henry Cavill will return as Superman...hopefully

When it comes down to it, I think the biggest problem WB is going to face is what are they going to do for 2015? I am sure the studio has plenty of films planned for that year, but Batman vs Superman was THE movie. This was going to be their mega blockbuster for the epic movie lineup of 2015. Now what do they have? This problem may not effect the company in the long run, but they might have a problem come 2015. Unless they can pull out a film like The Conjuring again.

I guess we're going to have to wait a little longer to see Ben Affleck in the Batsuit

Pros:

What good could possibly come WB's bold decision. Well I can think of few things. As stated earlier Warner Bros has had a problem getting an idea for a DC Cinematic Universe. Now, with this delay, they can  give themselves time to think. WB should take this opportunity to decide what you are going to do after Batman vs Superman and the possible Justice League film (which is being rumored to be filmed back to back with BVS). Sure we might have to wait a few more years; but WB and DC have a wonderful opportunity to finally get this ball rolling. 

Now to matter of the studio filming BVS and Justice League back to back. There are two theories going around the round. The first being that Warner Bros will film Batman vs Superman and Justice League back to back; while the other is that their turning BVS into Justice League. I've decided to look at the theory that makes the most sense. If filming back to back is the case, then changing the release date makes a lot of sense. Obviously, this new time frame gives the filmmakers plenty of time to film two movies. However, the problem with this is that filming BVS and Justice League was not planned; and so it makes WB look bad. Still, if the studio is planning to film Batman vs Superman and Justice League together, then they have given themselves a massive window of opportunity. 

I know how you feel Superman

I am dishearten about this news. I wanted to see Batman and Superman together in 2015; and this move only shows Warner Bros' incompetence. However, I'm not going to scream "GAME OVER MAN" to every corner of the internet. My hope is that Warner Bros and DC will use their time to get their act together and make the best movie possible. Until then, unless another film is announced, I will have to put my excitement for Batman vs Superman aside and wait for other anticipated blockbusters.