The Greatest Showman - A cinematic fireworks show

One of the most robust kinds of movies to review are the ones that you know aren't really all that they appeared to be. On the one hand, The Greatest Showman is a fun, upbeat, and exciting time at the movies. But on the flip side, it is also, intentionally or not, a kind of propaganda piece. Where it takes a historical figure, who was more than likely not that much of a nice person, and turns said historical figure into a defender of the marginalized and seeker of social justice. Even so, as I have stated before, I find that it is vital to judge movies strictly on their own merits, regardless of historical accuracy, or faithfulness and understanding of source material. In other words, let's cast aside history for a moment so I can determine if this movie was actually any good.

Spoiler: It kind of is.

What we have here is a dramatized musical account of the life of P.T. Barnum (Hugh Jackman) who was one of the founders of the Baily Barnum Circus. We see his early life as a tailors son who falls in love, starts a family, and aspires to provide them the best life possible. After a series of failed ventures, he stumbles upon an idea. To bring together a group of unique people for a show the likes of which has never been seen before. Despite protesters on the street, and societies open shame of the "freaks" that live among them, the show must go on. As they all band together as a family and show the world who they are and that they are not afraid.

Apparently, this has been a long-term passion project for Jackman. In addition to being a movie star, he is also fond of the stage. Having performed on and off Broadway in some well-received musical shows. Let's not forget that this is the same man who killed as a host for the Oscars back in 2009 with his incredible showmanship. Make no mistake: This is Jackman's show.

The music is actually pretty cool. Featuring songs by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the music feels like a combination of modern pop with classic Broadway. Jackman performs his songs with unbelievable energy and plays off his fellow cast very well. Special mention must be made to Keala Settle as The Bearded Lady. As she gets what is arguably the best song of the show, "This is Me," and has an excellent voice to boot. Though, speaking personally, I think my favorite song is "Come Alive."

The choreography is powerful, energetic, and catches the eye rather efficiently. That, along with the excellent blocking of both the cast and the camera, makes for a fantastic flow. The way the editing and camera movement seamlessly transitions between moments are beautiful. It's like the film is just gliding.  

Now, as well done as all these elements are, the film just isn't really as impactful as it apparently wants to be. The movies biggest flaw is that it spends too much time trying to blow you away with each and every musical number, that there isn't really enough texture to the characters. I mean, Barnum does learn a lesson in the story, and the misfits get to have the best arc, but there's not enough meat on the bones for any of it to leave a lasting impression. As such, the movie is really just all flare and little story.

Maybe if they extended the runtime and allowed the characters and story to develop more, let the audience more time to identify with everyone a little more, perhaps this could have been an absolute knock out of a musical film. As it stands, it's an enjoyable show that cements Hugh Jackman's many talents and celebrates the diversity of the world, but it doesn't have enough texture to leave a lasting impression, other than the songs were catchy.


Is this movie worth seeing?
Maybe.

Is it worth seeing in theaters?
Maybe.

Why?
While it may not have much regarding narrative, it does have a lot of heart and energy to make seeing it in theaters a little worth your while. See it in theaters or just buy the soundtrack. Whichever you prefer.

Ladies and gentlemen, I am TheNorm, thank you for reading.

Coco - PIXAR still has the magic touch

 

Of all the studios and production companies under the Disney banner, PIXAR is arguably the most synonymous with quality. Ever since their feature film debut with Toy Story back in 1995, almost every PIXAR movie has made me laugh, contemplate, and cry on multiple occasions. There are many different reasons for this phenomenon, but speaking personally, I find the main reason they are so damn good, is that they learned early on what is the most essential element in any given story; characters you can emotionally relate to. So, if you're looking for any evidence that PIXAR still retains that conviction, you needn't look any further than Coco. Which is, in my opinion, PIXAR's best film since Toy Story 3.

This particular story follows a young Mexican boy named Miguel (Anthony Gonzalez) who wants nothing more in life than to be a musician. Unfortunately for Miguel, he comes from a family of famous shoemakers who destain music. So much so that they have banned any and all musical items from their household and forbid him from following his dream. Until one night, on the eve of Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), Miguel discovers that he may be a direct descendant of the great and famous musician Ernesto de la Cruz (Benjamin Bratt). Learning of this possible heritage, Miguel decides to take the plunge and perform in a local talent show by "borrowing" Cruz's guitar from his crypt. Except, upon doing so, Miguel finds himself transported to the spirit world and meets some of his dead relatives. Before they can send Miguel back to the world of the living, Miguel meets up with a spirit named Héctor (Gael García Bernal) who claims to know de la Cruz. The two agree to help each other and embark on a journey of love, family, memories, and the power of music.

Speaking of which, the music in this film is beautiful. Special mention must go to Anthony Gonzalez, who has such an incredible singing voice, that I really want him to record a duet with Auli'i Cravalho from Moana. The songs are catchy and heartfelt with lyrics that just yank your heartstrings. Especially the films signature song "Remember Me," which is not only the best song of the film but is also the most poignant. You'll see what I mean.

As expected from a PIXAR film, the animation is lovely. The years of technical advancement and capabilities shine through in every detail great and small. From the grand tableaus like the spirit world to the more minor details like human skin and bone. The designs of the characters and the environments are just gorgeous to look at. My personal favorites are the spirit guides that take the form of colorful animal amalgamations. The best one of all, of course, being Pepita, the ferociously loyal flying Lioness. Seen here:


Yet, amongst all of these beautiful elements, none are as important, or as refreshing, as the films subject matter. That is, of course, death. More often than not, movies and television shows aimed at younger audiences are so afraid to even mention the word. Out of fear that learning about one of the most natural facts of life is somehow going to scare them too much or, even worse, destroy their innocence. I find it incredibly refreshing that a major studio release aimed at kids not only chooses to tackle death as the central theme but does so in a way that reinforces the philosophy that death is just a part of life. By not fearing death, we learn to embrace life even more. Through sharing and remembering the songs and stories of our relatives long past, we can better shape our own future and the future of our loved ones. These are only a few of the beautiful messages about life and death this film has to offer.

Coco is an emotionally charged roller coaster of a movie. It has excellent characters, explores fascinating mythology, and has some good points to make about the human condition. All in a package that can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike as only PIXAR can deliver.

Is this movie worth seeing?
Yes.

Is it worth seeing in theaters?
Maybe.

Why?
While it is a fantastic film that you absolutely must see, if you don't enjoy crying in public, you might want to wait for when you can watch it at home. Because, trust me, tears will be shed.

Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm, thank you for reading.

STAR WARS: The Last Jedi - Tears were shed, it was that good (SPOILER FREE)

In the wake of Disney's acquisition of the STAR WARS franchise, director J.J.Abrams released the first film in a new trilogy titled STAR WARS: The Force Awakens. It was a significant, fun, and exciting first step into a brand new line of movies none of us ever thought would happen in our lifetimes. However, one of the films most significant flaws, which I also argue was one of its strengths in some ways, is that it spent way too much time pining over how awesome the original movies were and didn't spend enough time doing anything different or taking any risks. Some have described The Force Awakens as the world first two hundred million dollar fan film, which I do agree is a little accurate but don't wholeheartedly agree with. As such, the most prominent concern for this new movie, The Last Jedi, was that it was going to do the exact same thing as The Force Awakens. Where it spent more time catering to fans of the original trilogy and didn't bother going into any new directions or take any risks. Well, having seen the film, I am delighted to report that is not the case. Not only does The Last Jedi take the franchise into a new and exciting direction, but it also makes some of the most significant risks I have seen in a STAR WARS movie since The Empire Strikes Back. This is indeed the next big thing we have been waiting for.

The story takes place almost immediately after the events of The Force Awakens. The first order is closing in on the resistance and hope for their future is dwindling. To save the rebellion, and in doing so find some much-needed answers for herself, Rey (Daisy Ridley) travels to the ancient Jedi Temple to seek out Jedi Master Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) in the hopes that he will both teach her the ways of The Force and restore hope to the resistance. To say any more about the story and plot would constitute spoilers which I am not prepared to provide in this review. All I will say is that all of the subplots and side stories taking place are interesting and provide everything that a STAR WARS story would require in spades. 

The most significant accomplishment this movie makes is how fresh it feels. Without going into too much detail here, this film mainly takes all of the concerns that fans like myself had about this movie, and tosses them out the window. Replacing them with pleasant surprises, different approaches towards traditional ideas, and a message that is ultimately and justifiably optimistic. More on that in a moment. 

Performances from the cast are lovely all around. Special mention must go to Carrie Fisher. This was her last performance as she sadly passed away shortly after completing her work on this film. She has some of the best moments of the film and serves as an elegant and creative last will and testament. She will be missed. However, the MVP awards have to go to Mark Hamill, Daisy Ridley, and Adam Driver. Their back and forth provides some of the best on-screen chemistry and nuance I have ever seen in a STAR WARS film. Their relationships are interesting, frightening, and ultimately the most relatable. In my opinion, their dynamic is what sells this movie. 

This movie was written and directed by Rian Johnson, who previously made the film Looper, a beautiful piece of science fiction cinema you should check out. Johnson has written a STAR WARS story that simultaneously provides a familiar feel that only STAR WARS can deliver, and offers brand new directions for the future of the franchise. Also, Johnson seems to possess a unique talent for taking fantastical stories and making them more human than they might otherwise be. His focus on character growth, as well as the relationship between the characters and the audience, provides a significant amount of depth to the story. When watching a Rian Johnson film, you're not just observing the characters; you are the characters. 

However, what indeed makes this a great film and not just a great STAR WARS film, is it's overall message and the way it delivers it. Through the actions and emotions played, as well as some thematic similarities, this movie can be seen as a reflection of our own current state of social and political unrest. Where a lot of us feel powerless against the forces of evil as they just always hit us harder and harder, causing us to get more angry and frustrated. To the point where we think we can find resolve by hitting them even harder without any regard to our own safety. But, the film shows us how that never works, and reminds us, very wisely, how we can indeed fight back. As there is hope to be found in the story, there is also hope to be found in our own reality. For that reason alone, this film gets a ton of extra points. 

Of course, as pleasant as this film is, it's not without its flaws. There are points in the middle where it feels like its kind of dragging, and there are some spots that feel lifted right out of The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. The good news is that despite all of that, the film still manages to put in enough of its own voice to easily overlook it. Plus, for every fan service wink it does to the original trilogy, it provides a satisfying alternative that will put a smile on your face. One moment, in particular, takes an old silly line from the trilogy and turns it into a smart and impressive declaration of pride. You'll know it when you see it. 

The Last Jedi is a truly remarkable and fun new entry into the STAR WARS franchise. It's a breath of fresh air that makes you even more excited about what comes next. All I have to say now is that I really hope Disney finds a different director for episode 9. Because there is no possible way that J.J.Abrams can likely follow this act. My advice, get Brad Bird on the phone. 

Is this movie worth seeing? 

Yes. 

Is it worth seeing in theaters? 

Yes. 

Why? 

It's an exciting, fun, surprising, and well-timed adventure that both surpasses and exceeds your expectations. 

Ladies and gentlemen, I am TheNorm, thank you all for reading. 

Best & Worst of 2017 - Coming Soon...with a twist

Hello everyone,

Well, it's getting close to that time of the year again when we movie critics, and movie buffs, contemplate the movies we saw during the year and pick the ones we thought were the best and the worst. Now, most critics will put together a top 10 list of the best and worst, but those who have watched my YouTube videos, or read my older reviews on my Facebook page, will know that I don't usually do that. Instead, I pick the one film I found to be the absolute best, and the one I saw to be the absolute worst, so I can spend more time and energy discussing my reasoning for my choices.

However, because I like to encourage change and seek out variety in all forms, I have decided to do something different this year with my Best & Worst list.

This year, I will be judging a few films based on one particular category leading up the aboslute best and worst. Said groups are as follows:

Best & Worst Cinematography
Best & Worst Editing
Best & Worst Directing
Best & Worst Acting
Best & Worst Writing
Best & Worst Film of the year

Over the next few weeks, I will pick a category, choose my best & worst film of said category, and write up my essay/review. So be on the lookout for them soon. I hope you enjoy reading what I come up with.

Happy Holidays,
TheNorm

Last Flag Flying - A touching drama that needed to be shorter

Based on the book of the same title by Darryl Ponicsan, the story takes place during the early days of the "War on Terror" and follows a trio of former Marines from the Vietnam war reuniting for one particular mission. One member of the team named Larry 'Doc' Shepard (Steve Carell), has lost his son while on tour in Afganistan. Devastated by his loss, Larry tracks down his old buddies Sal Nealson (Bryan Cranston) and Reverand Richard Mueller (Lawrence Fishburne) to help him take his son home. Along the way, the three of them reminisce about their own past, in particular about a specific event that has haunted them, and eventually decide to use this trip as a means of seeking closure, and also, hopefully, redemption.  

For the most part, this film is well put together. It has good dialogue, sympathetic characters, a compelling human story, and excellent commentary on military life, war, and the general hardships of being a soldier. I dare say that it is actually a better film about life as a soldier than American Sniper could ever be. The cinematography should get a special mention. Not just because of its beautiful naturalistic style, but because of the brand of camera that was used. If I may don my "Camera Geek" hat for a moment, this film was shot on a Panasonic camera. Which I am a huge fan of as I shoot my own projects on a Panasonic camera as well. It is, in my opinion, the best brand of digital cinema cameras and I hope to see more feature films shot on them. Okay, taking off my "Camera Geek" hat now. 

However, the primary flaw with this film is that it feels too long. Part of it has to do with the runtime, and also due to some repetitive scenes that could either have been shortened or rewritten entirely. My general suspicion for this is that they were trying to fit the entire book into the film. While I cannot prove this as I have not read the book, considering that the author of the book also worked on the screenplay, it seems a likely possibility. 

On the plus side, the main cast has excellent chemistry and manage to carry some of the films slower moments, In particular, Bryan Cranston, who has been given the "funny guy" role. In fact, this movie was intended to be a balance of drama and comedy to showcase the power of laughter in dire situations. Unfortunately, it would seem that they didn't really balance that idea quite enough. 

Even so, Last Flag Flying is a well made, well acted, and a well-timed story of grief, friendship, soldiers, and the effects of war on people, as well as the best ways to overcome said hardships. 

Is this movie worth seeing? 

Yes. 

Is it worth seeing in theaters? 

No. 

Why? 

It's a good drama with not enough funny moments that is best viewed at home to take a breather once in a while. 

Ladies and gentlemen, I am TheNorm, thank you all for reading.