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tonymyles
Reviews
Daddy Daughter Trip (2022)
Fun Family Film!
This is honestly a good old fashioned entertaining movie. It isn't stuck like many family films these days by unnecessarily trying to be politically or culturally clever, but simply helps everyone have a good time. Even a few of the cringe moments make sense to the plot. The father and daughter clearly love each other, and while the dad has his shortcomings his dedication and commitment to her are outstanding!
There are absolutely some good takeaways if you want them, and the film earns them along the way. You can also feel the genuine care that went into making this film, too. While Disney will always have a bigger budget, films like this will always have an underdog spirit. It's a fun romp that plays out in three parts. Enjoy!
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
Fun, but not engaging
You may (or may not) find Shang-Chi to be a fun movie to see in theaters. The film is full of tropes, from the narration over an origin story, to an inner city urban flip on an distinctly Asian character, to the CGI we're to assume is real (that never quite does translate as real). This well-intentioned film about discovering who you are doesn't seem to know for sure what it is. For example, there is tie-in to the larger Marvel universe, but almost out of corporate necessity to set up subsequent movies versus narrative need to set up a deeper story inside itself. There's also more profanity than other films, often used as a momentary gag that doesn't advance the plot. Even the final sequences land in dark places that confuse the family storyline versus clarify it. If you're looking for a fun night out, perhaps you and your crew might enjoy this film... or you might crave something more significant.
Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
Tons of Intention, Plenty of Distraction
I'm an opening weekend, see-it-before-anyone-else superhero movie fan. Apparently I'm not the only one as my theater was filled with all ages including kids. That said, this movie had all the potential to be what fans have been hoping for - a Spiderman that veteran audiences can recognize while being a hero who younger audiences can find inspiration from. From the opening scenes and credits, this film certainly aims in that direction.
Unfortunately, there are plenty of distractions along the way. We're "almost" in on some key plot points that we never get the full information on, such as what happened to Peter's parents or where Uncle Ben is (if he even exists - this is a reboot, after all). Even 10% more information along these lines could have added another layer of depth to the plot that would have cemented everything in place for all viewers.
To add to the downside, several unnecessary uses of profanity litter the movie and are yet another thing younger viewers are supposed to just endure. During one moment when a teacher questions a student about his activities on a computer, his answer made our entire theater groan.
There is an upside to this movie. At least, I keep telling myself that. I want there to be. I wish it was a little clearer.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
Not for kids
Great movie with incredible creativity and laughter BUT... what's with all the swearing? Regardless of how we're supposed to ignore that these days, the theaters are filled with kids of all ages. Between this unnecessary profanity and over-the-top arrow violence (not to mention a brothel of robot prostitutes) this movie is not for kids. Parents - don't take them to see this on the big screen.
The Case for Christ (2017)
Well worth seeing in a theater!
The Case for Christ is a well-produced film about a real story about an even more real Story. It has integrity, hope and patience that allows space for doubt and ingredients for assurance. I'd highly recommend seeing it in a theater. In fact go with a group. Here's a review and interview with the screenwriter Brian Bird: https://t.co/wRQr0mQhyP