Franchises

Top Gun: Maverick

Storyline:
After more than thirty years of service as one of the Navy's top aviators, Pete Mitchell is where he belongs, pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot and dodging the advancement in rank.

Top gun: Maverick had some big shoes to fill. And, quite frankly, it does so in both an appreciative and independent way to create the best product possible - a sequel that is better than its predecessor.

This is not only a critically immaculate form of cinema but it is additionally complemented by a BAM! rating that makes it hard to find a true flaw. With a supporting cast that embellishes - in the best and most fitting way possible - the truthful concepts that were so cheesily brushed past on the first one, they, in turn, are gracefully implemented.

Solidifying a solid mold between the past and present nods to the relationship with the original with the finest technique by honoring it, but not trying to outdo it. Building this on-screen nostalgia that creates a space where they co-live, this arguably can be treated as a sequel or a standalone story of how hearty this is constructed.

Of course, this is filled with incredible action and stunts that give you goosebumps, as everything was real-life, with no CGI, it's important to note that this is also one of the most cohesive action dramas out there. Although undeniably a surreal experience to see on the big screen, with its nostalgic cheesy moments and all, the wholesome theme, esteemed first-class flying experience, and most importantly, a brilliant plot that is close to being flawless, this film doesn't miss.

Yet, overall, this wasn’t made just to have fun - even with it being an exhilarating ride - it rather was for a classic, iconic story and character that deserved a true finale. The first film was entertaining, yet failed to check any of the boxes critically. And while the sequel culture of Hollywood tends to ruin franchises, Tom Cruise will always deliver with the utmost and absolute dedication and exemplary right-minded products.

9/10

The BAM! rating is a newly integrated rating scale in addition to the critic rating each film gets. BAM! is simply the entertainment value that is solely based on whether or not a film is worth watching. A film can have a high BAM! rating and a low critic rating or vice versa.

9/10

Ghostbusters: Afterlife

Storyline:
When a single mom and her two kids arrive in a small town, they begin to discover their connection to the original Ghostbusters.

While Ghostbusters: Afterlife holds your attention throughout its entirety, it can't hide the fact that this simply had no purpose to be made. Although I don't hate this and was even engaged within, my problem with this film comes down to exploiting the nostalgia that comes with the essence of a classic for profit.

Given this has creative special effects that distinguish itself from its predecessors, there are moments to take in. Visually playing to its strong suits by not changing what is most recognizable, this adds the modern tone that was needed to make it feel more believable.

However, even with the stellar and completely unsurprising dedicated performance of Mckenna Grace, the surplus of unimportant characters counteract her significance. With an excess amount of characters and a lack of a connection to the audience, the premise of this story might have logically made sense, yet the implication feels pointless.

Ending on a finale that fails to fulfill the original Ghostbusters, the only universal positive is the heartwarming tribute to Harold Ramis, and even then, still feels misplaced given the rest of the film.

5/10

6/10

Ghostbusters:

Storyline:
Three parapsychologists forced out of their university funding set up shop as a unique ghost removal service in New York City.

Although developed now into the cultural phenomenon and legacy of Ghostbusters, this truthfully is the perfect family, feel-good, and comedic film for everyone.

While now the special effects feel as outdated as they look, they are not unwatchable, which should be noted since many older films normally are. Let alone for the time it was made, this is a must-see for everyone.

With this in mind, the stunts and CGI are still eventful. Finding a way to throw in a jump scare or an after-the-fact laugh, this is not as cheesy and predictable as it looks. From a witty script to a brilliant way of telling the story, this is still as funny as ever with an upbeat progression.

Ghostbusters creates a fun and carefree film that worries about nothing but pleasing the audience, which is why such a cliche idea clicks. Paired with a goofy cast that provides a familiar feeling, this earns its name as a classic in more than one aspect. Setting the scene for the plot to roll with the intriguing concept, this is wholly enjoyable throughout it all and most of all has its quotable moments, notable wardrobe, and its esteemed theme song.

8/10

Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life

Storyline:
Lara Croft goes on a quest to save the mythical Pandora's Box, before an evil scientist finds it, and recruits a former Marine turned mercenary to assist her.

While this is just as bad as its successor, the effort of making this more entertaining was clear, even if it wasn't successful. By already having the basis of the character established, Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life tries to make a fun and carefree turn of events, but is too absentminded to create anything worthwhile.

Involving yet another short-lived and formulaic love interest, the notion of having a strong and independent female lead is nothing but hindered. Diminishing all (which even then was still not a lot) development of what makes Croft, the message gets quite taken away when it's complemented by a complicated theme.

Sticking within its boundaries, although every aspect needed help to be more realistic and/or pushed in a different direction, this film was at least consistent. Jumping the gun on all growth between characters and their intentions, though, makes this film hard to stay focused on. With too many things going on at once, all with no details to back them up, this sequel is just as poorly done as the first.

3/10

Lara Croft: Tomb Raider

Storyline:
Video game adventurer Lara Croft comes to life as she races against time and villains to recover powerful ancient artifacts.

It's quite surprising this got made, considering how quickly conflicts are introduced and similarly resolved. Lara Croft: Tomb Raider tries to cast attractive leads with a fun wardrobe to look the part, to cover up making a script and corresponding actions with no meaning.

Being a fan of the game, I appreciate aspects that are an indication of its roots. Yet, just because it is originated from this idea does not mean it needs to follow it wholly, which is an inconsistent mindset this followed. Taking all the wrong moments to add animated-like characteristics to (only half of the stunts, setting, and dialogue), this feels so poorly made due to the fact there is no coherent circulation of what tone and/or vibe this is based on.

While it's easy to tear this to shreds, it has a realistic English accent from Angelina Jolie and modern for the time action, this is not dreadful. That said, including a name that is destined for more potential, leads that are more talented than what was created, and an overall typically ordinary 2000s action, this does not have the much-needed qualities to make it unusual or interesting.

3/10

5/10

Mamma Mia!

Storyline:
The story of a bride-to-be trying to find her real father is told using hit songs by the popular 1970s group ABBA.

Embodying the fact that a film does not always have to be good to be good, Mamma Mia! in truth, is not constructed well. Yet, among all its imperfections, no matter how frequent, this will always find a way to please.

While the soundtrack, clearly is the most praised piece within, it goes without saying the utter talent included to make it happen. From an undemanding pace to pave the way, each song fits perfectly inside the dialogue. Not to mention the power of the voices, this would not be nearly as wholesome if each unique vocal performance was as fitting as it was. However, this does not include Pierce Brosnan; though remarkably enjoyable watching him sing with maximum effort, to which he has even admitted is not his forte, his wavery presence is just as prominently enjoyable.

Satisfying the fans of ABBA and still capturing the attention of the nonfans, this plot hole-filled film charms with its visuals and songs but not with its structure. Taking place as a carefree watch, though the plot has troubles beyond what's seen on the surface, this can quickly become a comfort film, looking just toward its BAM! score.

4/10

7.5/10

Charlie's Angels: 2000

Storyline:
Three women, detectives with a mysterious boss, retrieve stolen voice-ID software, using martial arts, tech skills, and sex appeal.

Though any product of Charlie's Angels is a household name at this point, this version is nothing short of a cheaply produced and written film that's only a money grab.

With my views aside on the overdoing of girl power in Hollywood and how it always is done forcefully, this is in a completely different ballpark - objectifying the leading stars. Taking this to a point where the characters have absolutely no substance besides their taken advantage of materialistic "sex appeal", this desperately shows its true colors by creating nothing with thought.

Not to mention the tacky dialogue, this progression takes a rough course. Stuffed with ill-fitting interactions and a surplus of plot holes, this isn't heading in any direction. Throwing in useless characters and random plot points left and right, the backbone of this story is chaotic and unplanned.

While this film did not age well, from poor special effects to an almost uncomfortable watch, this may hold your interest, but for the wrong reasons. Admittedly, becoming entertaining enough in the moment, this is not recommendable, nor is it sufficient in being a good time passer.

3/10

4/10

Transformers:

Storyline:
An ancient struggle between two Cybertronian races, the Autobots and Decepticons, comes to Earth, with a clue to the ultimate power held by a teenager.

Despite this film being the epitome of Michael Bay, from tacky product placement to excessive action, considering what it's worth, it's not too bad. Attentively holding your attention and providing just enough suspense to not fully question the questionable subject matter, Transformers actively executes an entertaining storyline.

While the action and situations are without a doubt outrageous, they're not nauseating; though getting out of hand only in moments, the majority of this is incredibly realistic. Depicting a clear focus and sensible CGI, this feels as real as it can be. Yet, even arguably adding to the cinematic feeling this has, its overdoing of slow-motion is more noticeable than anything.

Not to mention the transparent, stiff performances and coinciding stupid dialogue makes this overacted. Developing stagy and artificial front runners inside a cinematically and visually pleasing film creates a mannered vibe.

With equally weighing and conflicting attributes, this film has its prominences and drawbacks -- but above all problems and praises, it's sure to entertain.

6/10

7.5/10

Miss Congeniality:

Storyline:
An F.B.I. Agent must go undercover in the Miss United States beauty pageant to prevent a group from bombing the event.

Despite Miss Congeniality having a paper-thin plot and becoming comical based solely on being easy to make fun of the overly cheesy dialogue, it finds a way to bring its viewers in among all its downfalls.

Without the essence of Sandra bullock, this film would be nothing. Embodying the character, she develops what not only keeps you on your toes but provides a personable individual. Originating a genuine laugh, she singlehandedly carries this simple-minded story to the title of a good bad film.

Though the story is as foreseeable you can get, it stays in its lines to showcase what running with an entertaining idea done right can do. Adding in the blend of targeting the hopeless romantic anticipation and engaging action, this offers many characteristics in light of it being underdeveloped and rushed. Easily becoming a rewatchable and pleasing every time type of product, this is enjoyable, fun in the moment, and effortless to laugh with.

4/10

7/10

Snake Eyes:

Storyline:
A G.I. Joe spin-off centered around the character of Snake Eyes.

This familiar and well-known character was shot from the get-go due to a film that sets out to be more cinematic than what it was written for. Counterfeiting a forced origin that's too unnatural to feel worthwhile, Snake Eyes has no purpose -- as it misses just about everything it could have done.

With an overly staged and rushed beginning, the underdeveloped screenplay was trying to catch up in every moment. Leading to discontinuous storytelling, nothing was connected or cohesively blended, which separates you from the story.

Without diving too deep into the terrible supporting characters and tiring subplots, every addition to the plot proves itself to be pointless. Simply losing your interest and becoming quite boring, the predictability doesn't help to make you want to see more.

Yet, this becomes entertaining in the last act and provides enough action and intensity to be amusing; however, the rest of the film is slightly hard to get through. Even with the effort of Henry Golding's performance (as he did what he could with an ungodly wooden script), he cannot hold together an uneven concept that was not executed with the right intentions.

4/10

G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra

Storyline:
An elite military unit, G.I. Joe, operating out of The Pit, takes on an evil organization led by a notorious arms dealer.

Expecting nothing less than the conventional plot this delivers, G. I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra stays true to its roots by providing a cheesy but diverting turn of events. Given its frequent and prominent issues, this by no means is a must-see, yet is amusing for the time being.

While this is unstoppable to prove itself in the genre to be more than the comic stereotype it embodies, it had no hope from the beginning. Developing a foreseeable and simple-minded tone within its first moments on screen, this lacks sophistication; putting itself out there as the typical, quickly made action flick, it becomes nothing more.

Striving from an established, nostalgic name, this features no originality to keep it going. With the anticipated weak performances and tiring conflicts, while the action is entertaining (but poorly done), the seasoned character arcs drain the life out of the film. Having enough cool gadgets and intriguing action sequences to be distracting in the moment, you can easily leave not thinking twice about it.

4/10

5/10

Star Trek Beyond:

Storyline:
The crew of the USS Enterprise explores the furthest reaches of uncharted space, where they encounter a new ruthless enemy.

Given this can't be compared to the first in this franchise, it's a close second. Never failing to amaze with its dedicated plot and parallels, the persistent characters and new additions both feature an all-around, true to self, exciting story.

Once again creating and consistently keeping the sophisticated tone, implementing the cheesy and witty humor comes effortlessly. Staying within its limits and not trying to do more than what it's worth, the complimentary, and quite in-depth action finds a way to seamlessly blend; delivering on this drawing action keeps you on your toes and puts you within the story. Not to mention, with its nostalgic content that proves itself to be relevant and practical, this provides a controlled direction that is eventful.

While the finale is a bit more cheesy than I’d like to admit, it still is overwhelmingly amusing. Staying true to its roots without missing a beat cinematically, this finds a way to yet again, please all viewers and make a pretty solid film in the meantime.

7/10

Star Trek Into Darkness:

Storyline:
Captain Kirk leads a manhunt to a war-zone world to capture a one-man weapon of mass destruction.

While this sequel is nothing close to being as great as the first, it becomes more a stepping stone within the series rather than anything significant on its own. Acting upon character arcs that are exciting and fulfilling regardless of a semi average plot, this stays true to its tone and progression that once separated itself within the genre.

However, the unsuitable antagonist doesn't have a fit within the film. Feeling more like someone who was written to embody the conflict rather than deserving it, he becomes off-putting. Stealing away from the originality that this once created makes it more like a blocky, make believe concept instead of a personable story.

Even with a slight cliche concept of a theme, this still gives the thrill from wholesome characters and absorbing action. Never questioning its integrity to providing a solid production that's reasonable, despite its few hiccups, Star Trek Into Darkness adds to a franchise that's imaginable and involving.

7/10

Star Trek:

Storyline:
James T. Kirk tries to live up to his father's legacy as a vengeful Romulan from the future creates black holes to destroy the Federation one planet at a time.

Effortlessly developing this concept on screen to make a cinematic, suspenseful product, Star Trek is an engrossing watch for fans and nonfans alike.

Appointing an utterly spot-on cast, the superb performances are as genuine as they are consistent. Developing a level-headed motive and progression that follows, the major conflict compliments each part of the story.

Given this has an already established name, franchise, and characters, for what this screen time was given, there was little information that was rushed or left out. While there will always be a fair share of sped-up aspects and moments that feel slightly out of place, the sophisticated and personal tone this evolves easily brushes past it.

With intense and realistic action and a perfectly on cue comedic script, there is little this film has that's not entertaining. This fresh outlook on a familiar franchise not only provides a solid film but an enjoyable watch.

8/10

Mad Max: Fury Road

Storyline:
In a post-apocalyptic wasteland, a woman rebels against a tyrannical ruler in search of her homeland and haven.

Arguably ranking as one of the most overrated films within the past few years, Mad Max: Fury Road is nothing but non-stop stunts and artsy directing to show off what technology the original trilogy didn't have.

Rolling with an already established idea and character to fully re-make, this has no individual thought. Striving to reconstruct a screenplay with all the same plot points, there is a complete disregard for the fact it had already been done right the first time. With no pizzaz or whirlwind concepts to transform this into something independent, it's running off the fumes of its household name.

Although something has to be said for the cohesive cinematography, as it is inarguably descriptive. Creating unity among the color scheme, lighting, and progression, the picture is striking.

Across the film, though having its enthralling moments, the heavy feeling of being thrown into a no-development plot catches up by the finale. Centering characters around a story without substance, a visually pleasing product can only take you so far.

6/10

Mad Max:

Storyline:
In a self-destructing world, a vengeful Australian policeman sets out to stop a violent motorcycle gang.

No matter how outdated some scenes may become within this film, Mad Max is a classic, must-see that set the tone for films in the future.

With an oversimplified and schematic plot, there is little this strives for, yet is successful with it all. Having a low budget and working with what it has, creates a visually depicting story that is quite unobtainable with products today.

Centering around an intuitive protagonist that is restless and determined, Mel Gibson portrays a grim reality. Straightforward, but persuasive, his performance is frankly quiet but telling.

Not to mention the impressive stunts, action, and choreography this entails, while corny after the fact, they're still appreciable and entertaining. Given this has no choice but to be daring with its costumes, directing, and score, though significant, they're authoritative.

Making a statement with all it embodies, this film is monumental from both a cinematic note and entertainment standpoint, which deserves a watch at least once in everyone's lifetime.

8.5/10

The Forever Purge:

Storyline:
All the rules are broken as a sect of lawless marauders decides that the annual Purge does not stop at daybreak and instead should never end.

While the problems within this film lie in more issues than just one, this predominately gives up before it even starts when it loses touch on reality. Forcefully trying to have a political agenda behind a concept that is not strong enough, this becomes too complicated for a story that is set up for nothing more than entertainment.

Alternatively, though this can get quite tedious at times, the action keeps you on your toes. Dwindling the fear to nothing besides a few jump scares, this in turn, goes for more of guns and glory than anything scary.

All in all, this franchise, along with plenty of others needs to be stopped. Losing every ounce of originality and filling every moment with terrible performances, this is not only cheaply made but isn't an enjoyable idea anymore. Not to mention the re-recording of the majority of lines and the poor post-production mixing, it's just simply hard to enjoy this film.

3/10

Lethal Weapon 4:

Storyline:
Riggs and Murtaugh must contend with deadly Chinese triads that are trying to free their former leaders out of prison and onto American soil.

Given this film opens with a bang and is as true to the characters that you can get, the rest that follows isn't as prominent. Delivering a moderate script that does not have the same energy and feeling like there isn't much excitement from anyone involved shapes Lethal Weapon 4 into what is hopefully the last film before it ruins the name of an enjoyable franchise.

Acting upon a heavily seasoned concept, this comes as no surprise it was too easily predictable, and quite frankly, uninspiring. Continuously doing the same things over and over again, although entertaining at the moment, is too foreseeable and expected. Even so, no matter how unglamorous this may become, it still has its clever comedic timing to keep you going.

All things aside, while this ends on a solidifying note that captures the end of an era, it just didn't need to be made. Consistently fighting throughout its. entire screen time to prove itself to still be funny, upbeat, and wholesome, it becomes average and mellow than anything else.

5/10

5.5/10

Lethal Weapon 3:

Storyline:
Riggs and Murtaugh pursue a former LAPD officer who steals and sells confiscated guns and ammunition to local street gangs.

While this series undoubtedly gets worse throughout time, it comes more as losing its touch on the classic storyline rather than creating a solely bad film. Still executing the intuitive conflicts and laughable script, Lethal Weapon 3 may be entertaining but is nothing more.

Bringing back the consistent, lovable characters that are still the same, this picks up right where it left off. Yet, this time, the same adventure once more brings the notion of not needing to be made. Leaving behind the importance of the fundamental need of relevance this strived off of does not ruin the name, rather pushes it to the point where they’re not the creative, fun, and well made films anymore.

Not to mention adding more characters and big names feel more like a buy-in than a requirement. Easily falling into the pit of Hollywood franchises, just about every pragmatic and down-to-earth moment these included are upgraded by its business counterpart, not its once original idealism -- thus creating films you continue to see but aren't anything worthwhile.

5.5/10

6/10

Lethal Weapon 2:

Storyline:
Riggs and Murtaugh are on the trail of South African diplomats who are using their immunity to engage in criminal activities.

For being a sequel or simply standing alone, this second edition to a classic franchise is surprisingly unpredictable and sticks to what it knows best.

Bringing back the same clear tone that keeps this afloat, there is the nostalgic witty humor and easy banter. Although there is something to be said that it's not as good as the first, it doesn't mean there isn't the same innovative and fresh concept this brings to the table.

Providing a detailed and in-depth plot, the storyline develops a quite intuitive turn of events that always keeps you on your toes. Proving to have relevance with the fair share of corny moments, this thoroughly authenticates its relevance to its character arcs while keeping you entertained in the meantime.

While the only criticisms come as a little too overwhelming happy ending and not being as unorthodox as the first, Lethal Weapon 2 is a solid production. Being completely unconventional and featuring the same, expected and natural chemistry, this becomes another must-see.

7/10

8/10

Lethal Weapon:

Storyline:
Two newly paired cops who are complete opposites must put aside their differences to catch a gang of drug smugglers.

Acting upon completely organic chemistry, this thrives by being a breath of fresh air. Delivering a fresh and unique concept, Lethal Weapon is not only entertaining but isn't given as much credit for how well made it is.

Being equally corny and comical, there is easily too many things to love within this franchise. The dedication to the difference in characters, working relationships, and how effortlessly everything is coherently blended, if anything, this feels like living in the moment rather than something crafted on paper.

However, this straightforwardly has its ungodly moments. Between its few, but notable, outdated stunts and subject matter, there are a few characteristics that showcase its old-world construction. Yet, without a doubt, the humorous and charming banter prevails, as it complements the majority of the realistic action.

Nevertheless, it's naive to think a film made decades ago wouldn't contain some questionable moments or foreseeable dialogue. Regardless, this indisputably is a must-see, surely can please any movie-goer, and mostly, is a rewatchable, compelling story.

8/10

A Quiet Place Part II:

Storyline:
Forced to venture into the unknown, the Abbott family now faces the terrors of the outside world as they continue to fight for survival in silence.

Crafting an exquisitely tasteful opening sequence, while it's without a doubt the best portion of the film, the rest that follows is not as substantial. Delivering the same edge that is guaranteed, A Quiet Place Part II in turn doesn't have the nimble, driven fear of the first.

However, the illustrative directing and striking tone blend seamlessly together for an enticing picture. Captivating the audience in any given moment, the dedicated and committed involvement makes the watch as personable and intense as possible.

Regardless, this is an impeccable theater experience and cinematic picture. Despite the expected, unforgettable score and keen performances, the issues lie within redoing a story that was already well crafted and embellishing on details that didn't need to be developed further. Ending with a cliche that feels too simple for the characters, this sequel is not as devoted or original to be highly recommendable.

6.5/10

Pitch Perfect:

Storyline:
Beca, a freshman at Barden University, joins an all-girl Acappella group, The Barden Bellas, as they compete against other Acappella groups.

With clever screenwriting and great execution, Pitch Perfect succeeds with its quirky and much-needed creativity. Although quite odd and not the ideal thought for a comedy, the talent included makes it a must-see.

No matter how stupid this may be, there is no denying it's catchy. Playing its cards right, the comedy and musical aspects blend seamlessly, making for an easy-going, feel-good film. Throwing in the well-expected and overly dramatic moments, there never seems to be a dull moment to keep you engaged.

However, while this is all for good fun and certainly succeeds, the pacing has its issues. Going from one idea to the next, dropping one subplot to go to another, more things become noticeable rather than looking past.

Nevertheless, this is a fun comedy for someone of any age, has a captivating and popular soundtrack, and is comfortably a rewatchable film despite its minor problems.

6/10

7.5/10

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

Storyline:
King Caspian is on a quest to find the seven lost Lords of Telmar and needs Lucy and Edmunds's help to do so.

Despite this film having its largely apparent issues and wraps up a trilogy that's easy to forget, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is surprisingly entertaining for what it's worth.

Diving into the fantasy and youthful perspective the second film tried to create, this succeeds in developing a spry world to live in within its runtime. Additionally, bringing back the lovable characters with the foreseeable and anticipated dialogue, there is much nostalgia within.

That being said, don't let the positives fool, as the major continuity issues and poor performances shine just as bright. Giving the same, if not more, plot lines left unfinished and a lack of emotion from characters, this provides an amateur ambiance that halts it from being anything more.

However, this film thrives with its upbeat progression, short screen time, and light subject matter, which only succeeds by the absence of a plot. Failing to tell a story, this, in turn, is a combination of scenes that don't have much correlation and relies on its already established name to carry it along.

4/10

YOUR CART

Top Gun: Maverick

Ghostbusters: Afterlife

Ghostbusters:

Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life

Lara Croft: Tomb Raider

Mamma Mia!

Charlie's Angels: 2000

Transformers:

Miss Congeniality:

Snake Eyes:

G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra

Star Trek Beyond:

Star Trek Into Darkness:

Star Trek:

Mad Max: Fury Road

Mad Max:

The Forever Purge:

Lethal Weapon 4:

Lethal Weapon 3:

Lethal Weapon 2:

Lethal Weapon:

A Quiet Place Part II:

Pitch Perfect:

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader