[5.75/10] Tai Chi Hero (2012)

Tai Chi Hero (2012)

Brief review: After the recently released martial arts caper, "Tai Chi Zero", here comes the second installment in the franchise, that promises even more silly fun and crazy fights. Sadly though, the director obviously didn't save the best for last, because compared to its totally refreshing predecessor, "Tai Chi Hero" is a bit of a let down. The story about the origin of Tai Chi fighting style is even more unfocused and less action-packed this time around, and full not-so-interesting back stories, that muddle the plot even more.Also, its clever tag line says 'from zero to hero', but unfortunately, it's more like 'from goofy fun to unnecessary seriousness', which automatically makes this sequel less enjoyable than the wacky "Tai Chi 0". Having said that, the film still has its moments of cheeky humor and slapstick comedy, as well as video game references such as pop-up 'vs.' titles and cartoon-like special effects, plus, it kind of redeems itself in the final act, thanks to the final 'stair rail' fight sequence between Yang Lu Chan and the protector, which is executed to sheer perfection, as well as super-exciting and fun to watch. That being said, this extraordinary action scene is not enough to save the film from being average at best. Angelababy is pretty to look at, and Yuan Xiaochao continues to impress as the protagonist, but it's Tony Leung Ka Fai as Master Chen that gives the most charismatic performance here.

Overall summary: Neither as quirky, nor as funny, nor as inventive as the original, Fung's "Tai Chi Hero" has one true highlight, namely the astonishing final fight scene, but apart from that, this so-so sequel barely delivers the big fun and non-stop action its predecessor did.

[6.75/10] Tai Chi Zero (2012)

Tai Chi Zero (2012)

Brief review: Self-proclaimed as a steampunk kung-fu flick, "Tai Chi Zero" is HK director Stephen Fung's latest film, shot back-to-back with the following sequel, "Tai Chi Hero". Right from the very beginning, particularly the hilarious back story presented as a silent, black and whine film, you could tell that "Tai Chi Zero" will be a quirky, goofy fun, and it turns out exactly that. Sure, it's a bit silly and the story itself is nothing special, but who cares, considering all the delightful craziness happening on screen. Visually,  "Tai Chi Zero" looks like a mash-up of styles and techniques, that feels refreshing and unique in its own way. It's like watching an authentic old-school kung fu film turned into a video game, with a hint of Western influence. The legendary Sammo Hung can do no wrong, and he proves that yet again with his fight choreography, which is imaginative without being too over-the-top. The videogame-ish action scenes are fun, edgy, smartly-executed and accompanied with an outstanding wire-work, and "King Fu Hustle"-like cartoonish special effects. "Tai Chi 0" also celebrates the acting debut of Yuan Xiaochao as the lead character Yang Lu Chan, and what a great debut it is. Although, he barely shines with any remarkable acting abilities, his strong screen presence combined with his enviable martial arts skills will make you rooting for his likable character. The rest of the cast is good too.

Overall summary: Slightly goofy and generally all over the place, yet entertaining and conceptually innovating, "Tai Chi Zero" never take itself seriously, plus, its clever visual approach and creatively-choreographed fight sequences leave you craving for the upcoming sequel.

[8.50/10] The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey [3D] (2012)

 The Hobbit:
An Unexpected Journey [3D] (2012)

Brief review: Unlike the "Lord of the Rings' films the first installment in the  new "Hobbit" trilogy is way more light-weighted, brighter in tone, and definitely not as action-packed as its three predecessors, as it focuses more on explaining us everything we don’t know and need to know in a humorous and relaxed way, rather than providing us with non-stop spectacle. The first half is reasonably slow-moving and lacking in action and vigor, spending all of its time on setting up the following “unexpected journey”, but as soon as the journey starts, the pacing picks up quickly, and continues to flow smoothly throughout, injecting a dose of needed energy into the storytelling. Peter Jackson once again has chosen the most breathtaking filming locations in the beautiful New Zealand, and that combined with the first-class CGI work leads to a spectacular visual result, the majesty of which will leave you in awe. The use of 3D is spot on, if not the best, but on certain scenes it’s incredibly effective, and makes you feel part of what’s happening on screen. Aside from some pacing issues here and there, Jackson’s direction is hard to fault really. As expected, he displays a tasteful visual flair, and remarkable attention to detail. Bilbo Baggins is played wonderfully by Martin Freeman, the dwarves are fun to watch, Ian McKellen returns with a bang as Gandalf, but it’s Andy Serkis as Gollum, that absolutely steals the show.

Overall summary: Sure, it lacks the grim feel, and refined complexity that turned "The Lord of the Rings" into such a classic, but "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" is still a truly entertaining, visually-sumptuous and masterfully-crafted prequel, that will leave you satisfied.

Click on the screen shot above or THIS LINK, and check out the extended version of my "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" review, written exclusively for White Cat Magazine. Comments are very much appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[9.25/10] Life of Pi [3D] (2012)

Life of Pi [3D] (2012)

Brief review: Based on the 2001 novel of the same name by Yann Martel, "Life of Pi" is the latest cinematic diamond from, arguably, the most versatile director in film history - Ang Lee. This fauna-dedicated story is touching, genuine, adventurous, full of life and truly absorbing from start to finish, and features one of the most engaging human/animal relationships ever put on film. Even though it's basically a fable, Ang Lee's powerful storytelling makes you believe every second of it. Yes, the film gets a bit too dramatic midway through, and the last minute story 'grounds' the otherwise magical experience quite quickly, but other then that, "Life of Pi" is an extraordinary fight for survival like no other. Ang Lee's refined direction features lots of diverse camera angles and impressively skillful camera work, and the special effects are flawless. The design of the animals, especially the Bengal tiger, is so amazing, you wouldn't recognize if those are CGI or actually real. The 3D is often sensational, and fully achieves its purpose to add an extra dimension to the visuals and make them look even more astonishing. There are also particular scenes, shot in a very artsy way, that will make your eyes pop out, particularly the stunning whale sequence. Suraj Sharma manages to carry the entire movie on his shoulders, thanks to his captivating and lively debut performance, and thoroughly charismatic character.

Overall summary:  Daring, captivating, beautifully-crafted, technically-brilliant, and completely extraordinary in every way, this nature-inspired gem of a film, "Life of Pi" is yet another winner from master of storytelling and visuals, Ang Lee, and one of this year's very, very best.

[6.50/10] Grabbers (2012)

Grabbers (2012)

QuickRating: The idea of making a horror film about sea creatures allergic to alcohol-soaked human blood is clever enough in itself  to make it stand out, but when you add to that a witty, humorous script, likable, yet hilarious characters, an interesting, murky but beautiful Irish countryside scenery, spot-on CGI work, and an out-of-this-world sea monster, you get "Grabber". Well, it may be a bit too silly and pointless, and not particularly polished, but seriously, who cares really?

[4.75/10] Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (2012)

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (2012)

QuickRating: It's hard to believe that the director of the awesome "Wanted" directed this misfire of a movie. "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" attempts to blend historical facts with fiction, but fails to do so, and on the top of that, it takes itself ridiculously seriously. Even though, the action scenes are nicely-done and full of great stunts, and the vampires are rather cool-looking, the storytelling is rushed, and the script is completely humorless.

[6.50/10] Ted (2012)

Ted (2012)

QuickRating: "Ted" has an original, if kinda goofy premise, the fictional title character is utterly adorable, but in a naughty sort of way, and both Mark Wahlberg and the Mila Kunis deliver amusing performances and have an engaging on-screen relationship, but despite all these positive aspects and the undeniable moronic charm it exudes, "Ted" barely lives up to its big potential, and it's not as hysterically funny as it's supposed to be, mainly due to its inconsistency and lack of focus.

[7.25/10] Looper (2012)

Looper (2012)

QuickRating: "Looper" is slightly  confusing and difficult-to-follow at first, but once you get into the highly original and well-thought-out story, you'll find yourself utterly compelled by it. Rian Johnson's shooting style is reminiscent of Chris Nolan's, if more tone-downed, the CGIs are superb, the tone is suitably grim, and the make-up effects are top-notch. The most down-to-earth sci-fi flick in years also boasts a stellar cast, with Joseph Gordon-Levitt being unrecognizably brilliant in the leading role.

[6.00/10] The Odd Life of Timothy Green (2012)

The Odd Life of Timothy Green (2012)

QuickRating: Slightly moody and not particularly enjoyable, yet still charming, touching, good-hearted and somewhat magical, "The Odd Life of Timothy Green" learns youngsters that being different and even weird is okay, and encourages them  to embrace that in a very delicate, yet honest way, and even though you'll either love or hate the film's peculiar nature, you couldn't deny the wonderful performances from everyone involved.

[5.75/10] The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 (2012)

The Twilight Saga:

Breaking Dawn Part 2 (2012)

Brief review: Let's face it, "The Twilight Saga" is cheesy stuff for teens. Thankfully though, after last year's nicely-shot, yet ultimately boring "Breaking Dawn Part 1", director Bill Condon manages to deliver the most watchable and reasonably entertaining entry in the popular series, since Catherine Hardwicke's guilty pleasure-ish original. It wouldn't be a lie if we call "Breaking Dawn Part 2" eventful, because there are more things happening in this installment alone, than all the other  four put together. Yes, the cheesy 'yawn' parts are still there, and but the plot is more intense, exciting, and tightly-paced than ever before, and the entertainment value is much higher. "Part 2" also introduces many new, mostly secondary characters, without feeling overcrowded, with Bella's daughter being at the center of attention. The final battle is epic, indeed, and certainly the biggest highlight of the movie, and the franchise in general. After shooting "Part 1", Bill Condon's love for the series has obviously grown, and that shows through his improved direction. He also adds the much needed slickness to the visuals, and therefore gives the film a much more polished look. Bella and Edward still lack a believable chemistry, despite the actor's real-life relationship. Pattinson continues to be stiff as a board, but at least Stewart finally displays some charisma, exposing a tougher, grittier side of her otherwise dull character.

Overall summary: All the typical cheesiness and some below-par acting aside, "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2" feels like a delicious dessert at the end of a mostly bad five-course meal - it's enjoyable, well crafted, and definitely better than its 3 lifeless predecessors.

This review is also featured on TVFilmNews.com

[6.50/10] Upside Down (2012)

Upside Down (2012)

Brief review: Hitting US theaters on Dec10 this year, "Upside Down" is the second feature film by Argentinian director Juan Diego Solanas, who manages to deliver one of the most extraordinary love stories ever made, meant to those willing to see something truly one-of-a-kind, both premise-wise and execution-wise. However, "Upside Down" is definitely not for everyone, as the whole idea of the movie is odd, and may be 'too much to handle' for more traditional viewers. Also, the forbidden love type of romance doesn't feel sincere at first, but it gets more believable and charming as the movie progresses. Mixing sci-fi and romance is one movie is rarely a smart move, but Solanas blends these contradictory genres rather seamlessly, and with an exquisite sense of flair. He also deserves a lot of credit for his work in creating this movie on a purely technical note, because "Upside Down"is incredibly difficult to shoot and execute, considering its 'upside down' concept, and the fact that it requires great skills to be made properly. Visually, "Upside Down" has a lot going on about it, sometimes even more the eyes can take. The visuals are imaginative and nothing short of striking, and while there are a lot of CGIs involved, those are absolutely top-notch. Kirsten Dunst and Jim Sturgess not only do an excellent job in their roles, but also share a great chemistry, and the supporting cast is pretty much on par.

Overall summary: Slightly pretentious and at times utterly peculiar, yet still engaging, "Upside Down" is an unusual love story full of originality, inventive ideas and stunning, never-seen-before imagery, that is further elevated by some solid performances from the cast involved.

This review is also featured on TVFilmNews.com

[9.50/10] Cloud Atlas (2012)

Cloud Atlas (2012)

Brief review: Adapted from David Mitchell's 2004 novel of the same name, "Cloud Atlas" is a high-end piece of cinema for thinking grown-ups as well as viewers with very high requirements. It's basically a hypothesis of reincarnation, mutual dependence between us people, how past lives can affect us in our current lifetime, and how we build our own future. This deeply meaningful multi-layered story takes place in six different time periods - past, present and future, and despite its complexity and seemingly complicated plot structure, it easily understandable, and flows smoothly and cohesively, thanks to the gripping narrative and competent editing. "Cloud Atlas" has it all - it has originality, it has substance, it has humor, it has action, it has interesting dynamics between the characters, and even a touch of romance. As expected from such visionary directors as the Wachowskis and Tom Tykwer, "Cloud Atlas" is an outstandingly imaginative and visually-sumptuous film, shot in various locations, and featuring as many authentic period sequences as breathtaking futuristic ones, with those set in Neo Seoul deserving  a special mention. Also, the three filmmakers seems to be working together in perfect harmony, as their co-direction is refined, polished, coherent and inventively brilliant. Arguably the best ensemble cast of the year all deliver a wide variety of performances as impressively colorful as the actors themselves.

Overall summary: Highly complex, yet never confusing, "Cloud Atlas" is a unique, thought-provoking, and often mind-bending masterpiece of modern philosophy, flawless storytelling, eye-popping visuals and wild imagination, and unlike anything you've experienced before.

This review is also featured on TVFilmNews.com

[8.50/10] Dredd [3D] (2012)

 Dredd [3D]

Brief review: Based on the British comic strip "2000 AD", Pete Travis' latest feature, "Dredd" is also a much needed remake of the lame 1995 film, "Judge Dredd", starring Sylvester Stallone. Although conceptually similar to this year's martial arts phenomenon "The Raid: Redemption", "Dredd" differs significantly in terms feel, look, and overall effectiveness. The storyline is pretty straightforward, yet well-conceived, and the script itself is reasonably smart, filled with wit and satirical humor. Director Pete Travis manages to capture the tone and mood of the source material quite perfectly, delivering one of the most visually good-looking films of 2012 - the camera work is skillful, the futuristic Mega-City One is darkly glorious, the use of the murky tower-block setting is remarkable, and the CGIs are top-notch. The 3D works as well, adding lots of depth to the already stunning imagery. The 'Slo-Mo effect' scenes, shot in super slow motion, are true state-of-the-art, and the action scenes are so loud, brutal, well-staged, and eye-poppingly entertaining, they will blow up your mind. "Dredd 3D" is also brutally violent, but the violence itself is awesomely-stylized, featuring lots of torn flesh and blood splatter. Dredd, acted brilliantly by Karl Urban, is sarcastic, tough and uncompromising, Olivia Thirlby's sweet look contrasts with her character's fearlessness, and Lena Headey is mesmerizing as the harsh drug lord Ma-Ma.

Overall summary: Grim, gritty, gory, spectacularly violent and visually-striking, "Dredd 3D" not only surpasses vastly the original in every single aspect, but also ranks as one of the best remakes ever made, thanks to its finely-written script and absolutely outstanding execution. 

[5.50/10] Resident Evil: Retribution [3D] (2012)

Resident Evil: Retribution [3D] (2012)

Brief review: The fifth entry in the "Resident Evil" series starts off with a spectacular opening sequence, shot in both a reverse order and slow motion, but soon after that, it turns into the same old same fare we've seen, well, four times before. The paper-thin plot is basically an excuse for killing zombies, but the problem is there are not enough zombies in the movie, and that takes away from the fun. Paul W.S. Anderson, who also directed the 'original' movie and last year's "Aftelife" is well-known for his ability to shoot eye-candy action, featuring shattering glass, huge explosions, highly-stylized fighting and tons of slow-mo, and here, he does it with flair and style yet again. During the action scenes, he uses lots of cool tricks and flashy camera work, and successfully manages to provide the audience with a spectacle, that will please any action fan out there. However, the lack of actual plot constrains him to unnecessarily overextend most of the scenes in the movie, and that combined with the lack of proper cohesiveness, and neat pacing, make "Resident Evil: Retribution" feel a bit confusing, at times surprisingly dull, and generally all over the place. The use of 3D is unimpressive, yet far from terrible, and luckily, the CGIs and creature effects are spot-on. The gorgeous Milla Jovovich proves herself yet again as one helluva badass female action star, but sadly she doesn't really have much to work with.

Overall summary: Worse than "Aftelife", yet better than "Extinction", "Retribution" is a so-so installment in the "Resident Evil" franchise, that won't win any new fans, but will still be appreciated by those seeking for mindless entertainment, cool zombie kills, and frantic action.

[5.75/10] Men in Black III (2012)

Men in Black III (2012)

QuickRating: With its super-slick production design, rich and vibrant cinematography, cartoonishly-cool special effects and quirkily designed aliens, "Men in Black III" is visually and technically marvellous, plus it features some truly entertaining action scenes and an unexpectedly touching final act, but Sonnenfeld's mildly successful debut effort barely impresses script-wise, and there's an obvious lack of on-screen chemistry between Will Smith and Josh Brolin as a partners.

[5.50/10] Total Recall (2012)

Total Recall (2012)

Brief review: A remake of 1990 sci-fi movie of the same name, "Total Recall" is "Underworld 1&2" director Len Wiseman's latest project, that manages to impress with its top-notch visuals and high-octane action scenes, but falls short in terms of storytelling, due to a largely sub-par script and lack of creative ideas. A few familiar plot elements aside, the story has nothing to do with the original one, and not in a good way. Obviously Wiseman has decided to exclude the trip to Mars from the story, thinking Mars is 'so 90s', but that's his major mistake. The plotline is not only overly twisty hence confusing, but also hugely unsatisfying and only semi-interesting. At least visually, "Total Recall" has the WOW factor. From the gritty, Asian-influenced production design to the stylish futuristic visuals and eye-popping special effects, everything about this movie is technically marvellous. Wiseman is usually great at shooting action, and "Total Recall" is no exception. There are a couple of Matrix-inspired incredibly well-shot action sequences that will leave you in awe. The cast is well-chosen, but the mediocre script doesn't allow them to shine. Colin Farrell is solid in his role, but his action skills are pretty poor compared to Schwarzenegger's, plus, the on-screen chemistry between him and Jessica Biel is nonexistent. Kate Beckinsale, on the other hand, is not only pure eye-candy, but also an absolute force of nature.

Overall summary: Visually-stupendous and stylishly action-packed, yet surprisingly unimaginative plot-wise, Wiseman's version of "Total Recall" is not a total disaster, but it's totally disappointing, and not as half as memorable as Paul Verhoeven's masterfully-crafted original.

[8.50/10] The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

Brief review: Even if it doesn't quite meet the high expectation set by its predecessors, Nolan's long-anticipated conclusion to his "Batman" trilogy is still a great way to end the franchise. In spite of its 164-minute running time, "TDKR" never fails to entertain, thanks to the clever writing and gripping narrative, enhanced by the film's visual depth. In the same fashion as "The Dark Knight", "TDKR" has little to no 'comic book feel' about it, simply because its director tries to keep everything as realistic as possible. Unfortunately, that combined with the lack of humor makes it seem a bit too serious at times. Execution-wise, "TDKR" is nothing short of masterful, but considering Nolan's amazing skills that's not a surprise. Pfister's muted, almost noir-ish cinematography and gritty camera work match perfectly with both the movie's dark tone and Gotham City's grim atmosphere, and Nolan's refined, yet vigorous direction maintains the intensity of the story. While far from epic, the action scenes are well-shot and thrilling to watch, and the CGI work is first-rate and intentionally kept to a minimum. The acting is superb. Although a bit underused, Christian Bale turns in his best Batman performance yet. Anne Hathaway steals every scene as the seductive, yet shifty and manipulative Catwoman, Tom Hardy does an outstanding job as the astounding villain, Bane, and Marion Cotillard and Joseph Gordon-Levitt are at their very best.

Overall summary: Pretty much humorless and tad overlong, yet never boring, "The Dark Knight Rises" is a beyond satisfying conclusion to Chris Nolan's worldwide acclaimed "Batman" trilogy, that boasts a deeply thoughtful script, strong characters, and top-notch execution.

[8.75/10] The Amazing Spider-Man [3D] (2012)

The Amazing Spider-Man [3D] (2012)

Brief review: Let's be clear - this ain't a remake of Sam Raimi's version from ten years ago, simply because Raimi didn't invent the story - Marvel did. Therefore, Webb's "The Amazing Spider-Man" should be considered a reboot, and as such, it takes the franchise to whole new heights. Yes, it comes way too soon and it's far from necessary, but the new director Marc Webb manages to refresh the series and put his own cool spin on it, in a way no one had expected. Аpart from the lack of originality, "The Amazing Spider-Man" is not only way slicker in execution and technically superior to the 2002's "Spider-Man", but also bigger, better, smarter, funnier and much more accomplished. Eat your heart out, Sam Raimi! Webb skilfully balances strong character development with thrillingly innovative action, and his uber-stylish direction features an exceptionally dynamic and diverse camera work that sets the energetic pace of the movie. The humorously witty script contrasts with the dark visuals, which are absolutely stunning, and the use of 3D is effective, without being overpowering. As Spider-Man, Andrew Garfield is much more engaging and sympathetic than Tobey Maguire, not to mention the incredible Emma Stone, who draws the viewer's attention every time she shows up on screen. Compared to Dr. Octopus from "Spider-Man 2", the Lizard is not as memorable, but is still a decent and worthy enough villain.

Overall summary: Although it comes only 10 years after the 'original', "The Amazing Spider-Man" not only does Marvel's original story justice, but surpasses Sam Raimi's version in terms of execution, visuals, acting, entertainment value, action and CGIs, as it's amazing indeed.

[5.50/10] Lockout (2012)

Lockout (2012)

QuickRating: Guy Pearce's super cool character and his fantastically amusing performance make the movie perfectly watchable and at times even satisfyingly entertaining, and the futuristic visuals, while far from spectacular, work for the most part, but "Lockout" lacks originality big time and often feels like a hybrid of dozen other (and better) sci-fi flicks, and that really brings this otherwise well-crafted and decently action-packed movie down.

[5.25/10] Extraterrestrial (2012)

Extraterrestrial (2012)

QuickRating: An odd, yet original combination of sci-fi, comedy and romance, the Spanish hybrid of a film is possibly the first-ever alien invasion movie, that is all about the characters and their relationships and not about the aliens at all. The characters themselves are flawed, yet charming and likable, and the movie is filled with tons of amusing situations, but sadly, in its second half, "Extraterrestrial" gets totally lost in its own quirkiness.