Trailer Talk: Comic Con, Cumberbatch and Cusack-less Time Machines

A delayed instalment due to the onslaught of trailers coming in from San Diego Comic Con, but with things slowing down now seems like the right time to get back on track!

Big Hero 6
Whilst it may not pack as much of an emotional punch as the Japanese trailer released hours later, the most recent trailer for the next Disney Animation film does look like another win for the studio. Whilst the animation on Baymax during the Sellotape scene does look a little off with the folds of his arms, the film does look visually stunning and the jokes succeed when needing to. It does borrow slightly from the earlier teaser trailer, but Big Hero 6 still looks like a win for Disney.

Laggies
Another indie film with predictabilities aplenty but with some surprise appeal. Keira Knightley is doing well with her American accent, whilst it's always good to see Sam Rockwell and Chloe Grace Moretz still at work, especially following the poor year Moretz had with Carrie and Kick Ass 2 both underperforming. It could be good, but wait until the reviews are out.

Ouija
So what happens when you mix a generic horror film with the same ol' formula that's been done to death with a superstitious board game? Why you get Ouija! Whilst hearing about the film did originally leave me intrigued, this trailer has thrown that interest straight into the pits of Hell. Poor show, Hollywood.

Annabelle
Another horror film, this time a spin-off from the immensely popular 2013 film The Conjuring. With a slight feel of the Chucky series and The Shining due to the neighbours being possessed by the doll, it does give off the idea of borrowed sources. But it does give off a wave of change by having one of the protagonists pregnant, which does add an additional sense of tension as the child will inevitably be ready during the film. Like all horror films, it will likely earn its money back and make some sort of profit, especially under the Conjuring name.

The Imitation Game
Unlike the various "Based on a true story" film trailers I've reviewed over the past few months, there is something rather special about The Imitation Game. It does borrow immensely to Benedict Cumberbatch's performance in Sherlock when it comes to the character himself, but by changing his voice Cumberbatch does give himself a bit more of an advantage to his fellow Oscar contenders. Add a wartime story which the Academy eats up and another award-attempt for Keira Knightley, it could be something special. But if anything, it's a film for the Sherlockians to eat up because of Cumberbatch.

Dear White People
There's a hint to Tumblr in all of this racism. Whilst it's great that studios are recognising just how racist media can be, and as a repercussion society, it does seem to be pushing the limit by being racist in return. It feels like a statement which is proving one thing whilst being another. And why the reference to Tumblr? Well, these days it's appearing anti-white as a backlash to all the racism against black people from the past and present. So in a way, it's just the online prelude of this film.

Fifty Shades of Grey
I feared for the day that this trailer would come up. I really don't want to watch this trailer, or even look at the thumbnail, but here goes nothing...

The things I do for this column. To start with, the film does look like a generic love film. A bigwig boss falls for a small perky journalist. Add a not-into-romance subplot and lines filled with incredibly high amounts of clichés, and it wouldn't have that much buzz outside of the new rendition of Beyoncé's 'Crazy in Love'. But then come the green-band sex hints at the end, reminding the viewers that this is Fifty Shades of Grey. You know, that book that was popular back in 2012 but quickly left everyone's minds when they realised it was nothing more than fanfiction with different names. I doubt it will do very well at the box office due to its sexual nature and unoriginal premise.

Hot Tub Time Machine 2
Speaking of forgotten stories, remember Hot Tub Time Machine? Released in 2010? I doubt it, as it was the year of Inception, Alice in Wonderland and Toy Story 3, but surprisingly studios want more from the group (now a trio, but hinting to the addition of Adam Scott as a replacement for John Cusack). This time the band of misfits travel to the future following their success at changing the past. The writers do seem to be in the old-timey sense that nerds are uncool in a world filled with Marvel and DC films breaking the billion dollar mark, and the jokes do falter, but it will likely impress fans of the original.

COMIC CON TRAILERS/TEASERS

Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice (no link)
Yes, I'm taking a look-in to the highly anticipated DC mashup. From what I've seen of footage from Comic Con, this teaser is nothing more than a set-up for the two duelling. Sounds like nothing new, and it technically is. But actually seeing the two Goliaths together, with Ben Affleck prepared for his bought with a different Bat suit, is enough to keep anticipations rising. As something that isn't more than a minute long in material, it is enough to quench appetites.

Tusk
Hmmm. I can't say I've seen anything of Kevin Smith's prior to this trailer, but it does leave me intrigued at how his films work. It's clear that he's trying to make an absurd premise for a horror film both serious and hilarious at the same time, but it does leave you unsure as to how to feel. Are you meant to laugh or scream?

Mad Max: Fury Road
This may well be the most interesting action-packed car-based film to come out in the near future (sorry Fast and Furious fans, but I'm not a fan). Not only does it feature some superb direction and attention to detail - I'm pretty sure that two-headed lizard is real - but it does look beautiful. However, that may not mean great story or characters, which have no focus in this trailer.

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
And so it comes to this, possibly the very end of the Middle Earth saga which Peter Jackson has put painstakingly long hours of work into. It may spoil the very beginning and answer the cliffhanger left from The Desolation of Smaug, and once again shoehorn a hint to the Eye of Sauron, but it also has a feeling similar to that of the trailers for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. It does look like even less of a Bilbo-centric film like Smaug, but it will still be a highly-anticipated film for audiences and fans alike. Perhaps myself included.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part One
Guess who isn't excited for this movie?! Yep, after already trudging through the past Hunger Games instalments, I've come across this two-part finale with low expectations. And deservingly so, as there is nothing to grasp with this. Heck, even Jennifer Lawrence, an actress who has excelled in the roles in X-Men and Silver Linings Playbook, looks wooden here. Add an out-of-place Natalie Dormer and Julianne Moore, and it has the makings of another snorefest from Lionsgate.

The Maze Runner
So...The Hunger Games meets the third Triwizard Tournament from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire much? Plus a singular female character who happens to know the protagonist and mystery in the air, it doesn't seem like a grand addition to the fray of TA adaptations. To put it simply, pass.

Deadpool (test footage, no link)
Not a Comic Con exclusive but instead a recent leak of test footage. This may be Ryan Reynolds' sixth attempt at a comic book movie (following Blade: Trinity, X-Men Origins: Wolverine, Green Lantern and R.I.P.D), but it may well be his most successful, as it does look appealing. Yes, it is all CGI, but he does have the voice and humour for the character, plus the animators have his visual humour spot-on. So go ahead Fox, make this movie!

Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) Movie Review

As the final film in Marvel Studios’ Phase Two prior to the highly anticipated Avengers: Age of Ultron and the only original film within a wave of sequels, Guardians of the Galaxy is the studio’s biggest risk yet. It features no major characters from previous films bar an extended appearance by Benicio del Toro (The Collector, as seen in the credits of 2013’s Thor: The Dark World) and a surprise visit by a certain character, features two insane characters in the form of an anthropomorphic raccoon and tree, and three villains in the form of Ronan the Accuser (Lee Pace), Nebula (Karen Gillan) and Korath (Djimon Hounsou) which has been a franchise killer for fellow Marvel property Spider-Man. But where it lacks in those areas, it does have the strengths of being under the Marvel Studios name and being headed by the currently successful Chris Pratt – following the strong successes for Her and The LEGO Movie. But could Guardians of the Galaxy continue the trend of big hits for Marvel Studios or is this a slump for their tenth feature?

Story-wise, Guardians does play it safe by having a team up adventure where they’re hesitant to begin with before growing to like one another, a formula previously success with 2012’s Avengers Assemble. It is a formula which works well, and doesn’t force the discomfort of the characters for very long once they’re sent to the Kyln – a prison planet. But through this is it does also mean that the film does falter with its villains. Korath is given very little to do outside of his appearance in the first few minutes and the big battle in the third act, Nebula is very much a one-dimensional character who craves attention against sister Gamora (Zoe Saldana), and Ronan, whilst intimidating, is placed under the title of threatening through conversation rather than appearance and actions. Even at the end, it’s believed that he’s overthrown in the easiest of manners until proven otherwise. However, they do succeed in bringing the story along through the journey of the Guardians, who are a joy to watch.

Starting off with Peter Quill (Chris Pratt), it’s made clear that this has been a banner year for the comedic actor. Quill is an incredibly strong character with a strong backstory as seen in the opening of the film. When he jokes, he succeeds; when he’s emotional, he succeeds; and so on. He is fun to watch as he brings his fellow outcasts together as he tries to save the galaxy for the sheer reason that “I’m one of the idiots who live in it”. Female comrade Gamora is also a nice change along the lines of Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) as a character not defined by her sexuality unlike various action films prior. As the sole primary female character, she does have a lot against her, but Saldana breaks out and makes a strong impact, even if her relationship with Nebula is conventional. With the casting of wrestler Dave Bautista as Drax, it does appear as more of a choice through physicality than acting chops, but thankfully the character is so literal and deliberately one-note that it really works, especially when it comes to Marvel’s trademark comedy. He’s the character who grows the most as he becomes more than an avenger of his family. But possibly the main highlight of the film is the extravagant duo that is Rocket and Groot (Bradley Cooper and Vin Diesel respectively), as the two beings bring off two different emotions which brings the film up from being more than a simple superhero film. Cooper brings off the snarky personality which great ease and not being held down by an family-related backstory like his fellow Guardians, whereas Diesel manages to present so much emotion through his incredibly limited vocabulary as Groot’s clueless nature brings off a variety of feelings for the audience, ranging from happiness, hilarity and heart-warming.

As for secondary characters, they don’t play much purpose outside of threatening or helpful.  The Collector is only there briefly for a bit of exposition, Quill’s mentor Yondu (Michael Rooker) is a mixture of hunter and saviour, and the members of the Nova Corps are there as part of the backstory for Ronan and why everyone fears him. John C. Reilly is in possibly his best roles yet, but that is slightly biased for someone who isn’t a big fan of the likes of Step Brothers or The Dictator, whilst Glenn Close is likable enough in her limited screen-time.

Guardians of the Galaxy may play safe with its formulaic approach and limited approach to its antagonists, its protagonists and comedic elements brings the film up as being a strong recruit into Marvel Studios’ roster. Add some popular 70s/80s music throughout, breakout comedy on par with Iron Man 3 and Avengers Assemble and some strong visuals by director James Gunn, it does make up a strong film which is great to watch from start to finish. I can’t comment on the end credits sequence(s) due to it being kept until official release next week, but even without those teasers it is still great viewing. 8/10

Guardians of the Galaxy is released in the UK 31st July and USA on 1st August

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014) Full Review

We return to the land of the Ape in this sequel to the 2011 prequel (Rise of the Planet of the Apes) of the classic 1968 franchise, in which it’s breaking point between the intellectual primates and the remaining humans, with the two species not wanting to harm one another but have to face the differences that they have. One thing the film does have against itself is that it isn’t the most original premise in comparison to its predecessor. It’s a basic synopsis which has been done to death in various mediums and franchises, with one or more characters causing the battle to fall into effect. However, with that said, the various writers do allow a lot more to it with the way both factions act. Very early on, it’s made clear that neither side wants war but will do so if the other takes action, and thanks to a remarkable opening title sequence which brings the audience up to speed with the events between this and the previous film, shows off the fears that they have. When all the apes go to the humans, there is clearly a sense of panic within the characters’ actions and expressions, and even a singular human brings worry to a handful of apes. Whilst it does follow the constant “We can/can’t trust them” storyline, and a rather forgiving leader in the form of Andy Serkis’ Caesar, it does end up as a thoroughly enjoyable film with the occasional emotional kick.

The difficult thing about the apes in this film is that they are all real actors doing motion capture as opposed to the usual pure CG creations that various films include, and with that they need to try their very hardest to act like apes, albeit intelligent ones, without looking too comedic. But after Serkis’ strong performance in the previous film, he successfully guides his fellow primates and the audience into possibly some of the best acting on film of the last year. Thanks to WETA’s superb animation making these monkeys look incredibly realistic; you forget that these are just people in weird costumes. Outside of Serkis, there is no standout performance as all of these actors are doing superbly. But the most notable of which is of course Koba (Toby Kebbell), who is a rather menacing monkey who does a terrifying portrayal, as you can tell from recent TV spots and trailers. Besides him, the other apes are there as family, friends, or various extras.

The humans are a bit more of a mixed bag, as many of them do fall for the usual character tropes. The first of which is Malcolm (Jason Clarke), who seems to be instantly captivated by Caesar following their first meeting. Whilst he is a likable lead, and in fairness a good enough presence amongst the various chimps, he does come across as a bit too perfect and quickly solves any disarray between the two factions. Wife Ellie (Keri Russell) is there for either moral support or nursing whilst Kodi Schmidt-McPhee is memorable only for his ability to draw. He does forge some form of friendship between Maurice the orangutan but is quickly used as a protective piece scenes later, before being dropped completely. But still, a nice touch in a brief heart-warming scene between the duo.  You do get the characters that don’t trust the apes, but they are quickly taken out of the picture so they don’t take up too much of the screen time, whilst Gary Oldman isn’t exactly in the mindset as seen in all the trailers. He does play a generic leader, who gives off a big speech at some point, but by no means does he detract for the overall quality of the film.

Whilst there are various minor factors which can lessen the film’s overall quality, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes was an incredibly enjoyable film from start to finish, as a grand continuation to Rise whilst setting up nicely for future instalments (including the inevitable Planet of the Apes). Whilst not the most original film out there this summer, it is by far one of the best thanks to strong performances, perfect special effects and likable – and rightly dislikeable – characters. 8/10.

Trailer Talk: Jolie, Jimi and Gillian

Dracula Untold
The fact that this trailer presents its title within the first 40 seconds of the trailer really gives off an idea of the film's quality. Whilst it succeeds in presenting a dark broody tone for the horrific action hybrid, and Luke Evans is certainly trying to give his all to this troubled script, it does look a bit poor. It gives off the usual plot ideal as various films prior in which the main character is losing his humanity whilst trying to be a husband and father...wait, isn't this just like the first half of this year's RoboCop reboot?

The Skeleton Twins
This does look like a simplistic indie film with big comedic talent as they try and break out of their moulds with calm jokes as opposed to the bombastic humour seen in Wiig and Hader's filmography. Maybe it'll work, maybe it won't, but it's far too subtle in this trailer with more focus on the emotions of these characters.

Hector and the Search for Happiness
With this trailer, it looks like Simon Pegg is taking a leaf out of Adam Sandler's book by featuring in a comedy which takes place in another country, in this case several. However, unlike Sandler, who brings along friends to make various fart/poo jokes, Pegg is treating it more like a tour guide to all the countries featured and how much fun can be had. And whilst it does fall for the silly emotional aspect as expected with wife Rosamund Pike, there were times in which the jokes did succeed - more in an internal amusement way than aloud.

Beyond the Lights
I watched this trailer for the pure reason of Gugu Mbatha-Raw, following her strong performance as the titular role in Belle, intrigued as to whether she could pass along her expertise in a film I had no knowledge of. But alas, whilst the singing is good and the chemistry is realistic, it too follows simplistic storylines with a star forced into this light who doesn't feel like she's herself. Nothing too special.

Horrible Bosses 2
I haven't seen the first Horrible Bosses so I can't really comment on the consistency of the jokes and storyline. What I am sure of though is that, surprisingly, there are some good jokes involved, and if not then the delivery really helps out (namely with Jennifer Aniston's scene at the end). The trailer does quite simply show that this is the tone this series goes in, and if new viewers like it they should view it.

Jimi: All is By My Side
This does look like a promising biopic on the infamous singer from the 60s, with a strong performance shining through by André Lauren Benjamin. I doubt it will resonate as much as it will come cinematic release, but it does look like a film critics will enjoy with its racial themes and great musical numbers.

Sharknado 2: The Second One
Of course I'm going to venture into the odd world of Sharknado, one of the most popular TV movies of the last year, with this sequel trailer. I haven't seen the first 'instalment' but from what I've gathered about The Second One is that it's likely it follows in the footsteps of its predecessor. I shan't be in a hurry to watch this pile of chum, but it's probable that many will.

Guardians of the Galaxy
Just when I thought the final trailer had been released, another one pops up out of nowhere. Perhaps the weakest of the trailers to date, it works more as an advertisement of the various 80s songs which feature in the same way as the previous inclusions. The part which does work is the extended clip from the "That's a fake laugh" scene from the previous trailer, which has a hilarious continuation with Groot (Vin Diesel). It's already established that I am excited for this film, and look forward to its release. 20 days to go!

Gone Girl
This is a film which has a lot of buzz, with the source material being based on the popular novel by Gillian Flynn and the increasing popularity of future Batman Ben Affleck with the successes of The Town and Argo. This too has a large Oscar buzz, and this trailer really adds heat to the Oscar flame. Whilst I dislike the concluding shots of Pike for possible spoilers, the rest looks absolutely superb.

Exodus: Gods and Kings
I have a bit of a sour taste with religious movies following the borefest that is Noah, so seeing another Biblical epic does leave me worried. Add Ridley Scott coming off from 2013's critical flop The Counselor, and it does create fear. I'm not familiar with the full story of Moses, but I can't say this trailer wins me over. I wasn't even sure which character was which until a second viewing which can give off further fear for studios and audiences alike. Take caution with what is shown.

Unbroken
Angelina Jolie returns behind the camera in her second directorial attempt following critical flop In the Land of Blood and Honey, and this time there's a lot more buzz for reasons unknown to me. It does feel like another one of those "epic true stories" which are made left right and centre these days, but Jolie has stepped up her game in terms of direction as it looks a lot more sleek. There's some great editing involved and an interesting premise, but I'm unsure on how emotional it will be in comparison to how much it wants to be. There's a wind of cliché within it all with the strong patriotism so it may fail with foreign audiences, but who knows.