A BUG’s LIFE

 

COOMING SOON…

GLADIATOR : My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius

 

What are the main reasons why audience considers Gladiator to be one of the best films ever made? There is not doubt that the role of Maximus,its screenplay,its cast along with the ending are its strong points.It is crystal clear that we are in front of a masterpiece and a must if you are cinema lover 

Gladiator is a historical film which was directed by Ridley Scott in 2000.This story was inspired by the novel ‘Those About to Die’ by Daniel P.Mannix.Yet,the final idea was developed by Francozi,who also written the screenplay.It’s important to remark that the production was really complicated due to the plot was written several times.There is not doubt that the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius was a blockbuster with numerous positive audience reviews and along with its global recognise.All these facts made Gladiator won five Academy Awards,apart from other prestigious accolades.As a curiosity,the role of Russell Crowe in the area scenes wasn’t straightforward for him.He injured multiple times,one fall resulted a hip problem and another accident broke his foot.Finally,A sequel,Gladiator II has been just released in 2024.

AD 180,after the victory against Germanic tribes,Maximus Decimus Meridius (Rusell Crowe) returns home.There,he is considered an absolutely idol,especially for the Emperor Marcus Aurelius,above his son Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix).The Emperor ponders that his son is not adequate for this role and Maximus should be the successor.Yet,Commudus is not delighted with the idea and he is capable of all to be proclaim the new emperor.However,this fact enrages to Maximus,who turns a gladiator to avenge the murders as his family and the Emperor

The fusion of the ancient and the modern is seamless.Gladiator does indeed deliver the glory that was Rome,but it also clinically dissects the assumptions on which it was built.

..’Now you are at peace..and someday we will meet again.Only not yet,not yet’

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gladiator_(2000_film)

THE CHRISTMAS CHRONICLES : How it all starts

 

There is not doubt that Christmas is the time to gear up for a new year.Before thinking of the new year resolutions,It is time to remember our  the high and low in this year.Funny memories,the last boring pep talk of your boss,or when your best friend took the mickey out of you or if you weren’t jammy with any lottery.In other words,time for an assessment.Yet,my favorite memories are the Christmas Chronicles.

The Christmas Chronicles is an American nativity film.It was directed by Clay Kaytis in 2018.First and foremost,it is significant to remark that its main star is Kurt Russel.The American actor has been always considered working as a role of rough and policeman performances.However,there, his function is totally different,he performs to Santa Claus.Besides,Kurt Russell took his Santa duties so seriously,not only designed he the special Santa costume and wrote some parts of the backstory,but also are left grow his bushy beard.The film collected favourable opinions,as a result in 2020,it was a sequel with the original cast.

The main purpose of Claire Pierce (K.Williams-Paesley) is keep the spirit of Christmas in spite of her husband died in a fire.One of her children,Teddy has lost this spirit.While,they are watching some old family videotapes,Kate,Clarie’s daughter who adores Christmas,convinces to Teddy that Santa Claus is probably going to be at home this night.The children make up a plan which to record Santa Claus.Yet,this wizard plan,not only show them how is real Santa Claus (Kurl Russel),but also they live amazing adventures together

The Christmas croniques was great well written.The plot involves entertaining with authenticity,humor and warmth.The characters take us along with them on a creative,unique and fun adventure.

…People need Christmas to remind themselves of how good they can be!

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Christmas_Chronicles

A MAN CALLED OTTO : Fall in love with the grumpiest man in America

 

Generally,we live in our routine life,work,family or household among others labours.Yet,there are other situations which are unfamiliar for us,at least you go through them,for example Autism and it affect our lives forever.The ASD,Autism Spectrum disorder is a evolutive disability that affects,communication,social integration and behavior.While it can be diagnosed at any age,it is usual for symptoms to develop within early childhood,and these signs may be held during a lifetime.The film A Man Called Ottto,Otto’s character traits are highly representative of autistic since autistc people tend to have very literal thought patters toward everything.

A Man Called Otto is an American comedy-drama.It was directed by Marc Forster in 2022.This heartwarming and funny movie is a remake of a Swedish film and it was also based on a novel of the same name by Fredik Backman.There is not doubt that its strong and engaging point is the role and the performance of Tom Hanks.Albeit its unexpected ending is clearly the main fact about this film.After its released,the film was highly successful,not only got it some positive comments,but also an economic benefit.It’s fair to point out that it was the first time that Tom Hanks works with his son,Truman Hanks.According to the actor “It was special because I changed his diapers.But you get past that right away because you gotta show up,and you gotta hit the marks,and you gotta do it on time,and you gotta be right there”

Otto Anderson (Tom Hanks) has always suffered a behavior disorder.After losing his wife,he has become more and more eccentric.Otto is a maniatic 63 years-old widower and who lives alone in a humble neighbour.The main purpose of Otto is committing a suicide, but it is always happened something to avoid it.One day,his peace is interrupted to the arrival of new neighbors,a Marisol (Mariana Treviño) a talkative pregnant and his husband and their daughters.Throughout,the relationship between them is so difficult,especially with Marisol due to the character of both.Despite,their mutual conflict,Marisol finally know the real personality of Otto.Behind his weird behavior,she will find a great person with an enourmous heart.

A Man Called Otto is perfect for anyone who wants a feel-good story and a reminder to check in with your network and neighbors.It is important to bear in mind that you never know what someone might be going through.

…People don’t know your struggles if you don’t let them in.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Man_Called_Otto

BEETLEJUICE : Beetlejuice,beetlejuice,beetlejuice

 

Have you watched the sequel of Beetlejuice yet? What do you make of it? It is true,we usually come to mind the same question when we talk about the same film but in two different periods of time.In this review.I’ll try to give an overview about the first one.If you would like to share your opinion about this new Beetlejuice,feel free to do it.

Beetlejuice is an American comedy horror film.It was directed by Tim Burton in 1988.Its cast involves Alec Baldwin,Catherine O’Hara,Winona Ryder and Michael Keaton among others.It’s fair to point out Beetlejuice was a success,not only had it positive reviews,but also economical.This success made it to win some relevant award,especially the Academy Award for best Makeup.As a curiosity,originally the name was going to be The Maitlands but they decide to change in order to give more relevance to the main character.There is not doubt that the scene which Lydia sings ‘Jump in the Line’  and the characters dance in the air was a challenge at that moment,it was used innovation special effects.In 2024,the sequel Beetlejuice Beetlejuice was released to revive this unforgettable movie.

Adam (Alec Baldwin) and Barbara Maitlands (Geena Davis) spend their holidays decorating their country house.While,they came back to the city to buy some things,the couple has an accident avoiding a dog.When they continue the trip,they realize that they don’t refleat their faces in the mirror.Once at home,Adam goes through some weird vision and they discover a handbook for the Recently deceased and they keep noticing that they don’t have a reflection in a mirror.They deduce that they drowned in the river and now they are ghosts.Although they sell the house to a wealthy family,the Deetz.The Maitlands must remain in the house for 125 years and they hire the service of a "freelance bio-exorcist named Betelgeuse.However,who is also called Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) isn’t entirely what it seems to be

The film still works and is just as a charming and engaging as it was when I watched it as a kid.Michael Keaton is brillant.Ryder,Baldwin,O’hara and Davis all excell in their roles,In other words,we are facing to an iconic movie which or love it or loathe it.

….Though I know I should be wary,still I venture someplace scary,ghostly hauntings I turn loose : Beetlejuice,beetlejuice,beetlejuice.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beetlejuice

MINIONS : Little naughty guys

When we are talking about supporting actors,in our mind come many plenty of famous roles who are always in the back of the movie.Despite their function is really essential.They usually perform similar tasks, and they are hardly ever considered in the spotlight.Yet,there are funny creatures had became almost more famous that the main role and its recognized fame had transcended all borders.Minions are indispensable in our hearts,without a doubt whatsoever.

Minions is an American animated film.This comedy movie was produced by Illumination Entertaiment and distributed by Universal Pictures in 2015.Generally,this film had an enormous success,thanks to its original animation and voice acting.Yet,according to some audience,some part of humor was considered like unfunny and inappropriate.Nevertheless,it strong point was that it became one of the highest fundraising of animated film of all time.As a mentioned before,there is not doubt that its famous dubbing is another positive fact.Its funny characters (Kevin,Stuard and Bob) are interpreted by well-known stars,like Ricky Martin,Michael Keaton,Sandra Bullock or Thalia among others.As a final point,It had a sequel,Minions : The Rise of Gru in 2022,which had a similar success.

Minions have existed since the beginning of time.These little yellow creatures have served history’s most evil masters.Yet,their relationship always ends up dramatically.From a Tyrannosaurus,a caveman,Dracula or Napoleon among others,all of them are accidentally murdered by Minions.After these curious stories,Minios get find without a master,they are totally unserviced.Kevin,Stuard and Bob decide to find a new goal to follow.They arrive in Orlando,but their situation is not easy,Finally,they go to a supervillain convention where they meet Scarlet Overkill,the most famous female supervillain.Scarlet has a crime plan and she considers that Minions should be part of it.Although,according their past masters experience,it isn’t likely a right decision. 

Minions is a funny film which be loved by the kids,with enough winks and sketches to be also entertaining for adults.These little naughty guys are icons,and it’s not only their craziness or the chaos that makes this movie worth watching. 

…Tulaliloo ti amo 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minions_(film) 

MUNICH : This is the story of what happened next

 

Olympic games are synonymous of freedom,fighting spirit,fellowship and healthy competition.Yet,unfortunately,external conflicts and selfish interests are linked with this global competition.This time,in Paris Olymplic games 2024,the Ukrania war or conflict in Palestina are presented in this sport festivity.Fortunately,the safety in Paris seems to be superb.There is not doubt that it happened in Munich 1972 won’t be repeated again.

Munich is an epic and historical film.It was directed by Steven Spielberg in 2005 which was based on the book Vengance by George Jonas.This film meanly shows how the world watched in 1972 as 11 Israel athletes murdered at the munich Olympics.It is fair to point out that Steven Spielberg showed this situation as a masterpiece.Furthermore,Munich was named the 16th best film of the 21st century by The New York Times.As a final curiosity,one of the real terrorism,the last one still live,threatened to Spielberg and his staff because he considered that he should be part of this film stage.

After Munich Olympic games,and also after the death 11 crews of the Israel Olympic team.Avner Kaufman (Eric Bana) has the target to kill 11 Palestinians as a revenge.To Kaufman along with two more members,Steve (Daniel Craig) and Carl (Ciaran Hinds).They have to change their identities and they receive all information to carry out this revenge.Yet,as the assassinations pile up.To Avner Kaufman and his team begin to doubt the morality of their actions.

Munich is one of those unique films that transcends art and taps directly into the consciousness of a hate-battered world.It is Outstanding and Well acted.To my mind itis a perfect representation which was based on the facts surrounding the Olympic games 1972 in Munich, Germany.

..We are supposed to be righteous.That’s a beautiful thing and we’re losing it.If I lose that,that’s everything.That’s my soul.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Munich_(2005_film)

BEST OF THE BEST : Working together is success

 

Spanish national team,Carlos Alcaraz,Aitana Bonmati..among others sport players who are going to compete in the next Olympic Games,give to Spain an amazing prestige.I remember when I was a child,Spain wasn’t a sport potential,less some exceptions like Miguel Indurain or Fernando Martin.However,fortunately,the scenario has changed.Not only in some disciplines are we the best,but also our future is more hopeful.Needles to say that our strong point to achieve this success is played as a team.It is the only way to be the best of the best.

Best of the Best is an American martial arts film.It was directed by Bob Radled in 1989.First and foremost,It is important to remark that this film had generally negative reviews.According to the audience,it was considered a Rocky or Karate Kid copy and many people claimed that its amazing cast,such us Eric Roberts or James Earl Jones,was an appalling waste of talent.Yet,nowadays,it has acquired a following over the years and an inspiration from others films.The film has sprawed three sequels : Best of the Best II (1993),Best of the Best 3: No turning back (1995) and finally Best of the Best 4 : Without Warning (1998).

The plot revolves an American art martial team.Alex Grady (Eric Roberts),Tommy Lee (Chris Penn),Travis Bickley (Chris Penn),Virgil Keller (John Dye) and Sonny Grasso (David Agresta) who are trained by Frank Couzo (James Earl Jones) will face to South Korea in an international martial arts tournament.Alexander Grady is a well-known and retirement fighter martial-art.Now,he works as a car worker,suffered his wife passed away and a past shoulder injury which could paralyze during the competition.This team struggles to the remarkable differences between both teams.Team Korea has financial support and they will be able to train all year versus US team.Not only they need to win with better mentality and the best technique,but also struggle with internal matters.Moral conflicts,the fight spirit and adversities make them more difficult the way.

This film is entertaining and emotional,classic 80s movie.Best of best is filled with engaging training scenes.Honestly,still one of my favourite American martial arts films since I was a young kid.The end is gold in more ways than one!.

…A team is not a team if you don’t give a damn about each other.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Best_of_the_Best_(1989_film)

WONKA : Every good thing in this world started with a dream

 

‘Every dream starts with a single step.Don’t be afraid to take it,even if the path isn’t clear.Trust yourself,and the way will unfold’.In my view,not only is it essential to have a dream,but also enjoy its every single step,although its way will be challenging.Having a dream is a clear demonstration to be lived,no matter if they are little or extremely difficult,the most significant is to struggle them.To Willy Wonka,his dream started with a sweat step.

Wonka is a musical and comedy film.As it is highly knowledge,Willy Wonka is a central character in the film of Charlie and the Chocolate factory,which I wrote in a previous review.This film was directed by Paul King in 2023.Many people claim that a reboot will hardly ever have any success due to the lack of originality,although it isn’t the case.Added to that,Wonka received positive reviews,which generated great grossing worldwide and some relevant nominations.It is worth highlighting that despite Wonka is a comedy film and especially from Children's public,I also must make clear that Wonka handles during its plot some controversial topics,like classism,capitalism,prejudice,discrimination among others.

This magical story begins with Willy Wonka,who is a chocolatier invertor.His dreams is being the most famous chocolater maker and opens up his own shop.Wonka arrives at Galeries Gourmet to achieve his goal.One day,while he is doing a demonstration,he shows his magical 'hoverchocs’  to the citizens.Apart from its yummy taste,these products make people fly and he immediatelly gets an amazing success.Yet,the three corrupt businessmen in this gallery confiscated the idea and Wonky is in bankruptcy.As a result,Wonka has to sleep in the street,unfortunately he meets Bleacher (Tom Davis) who invites to stay in a weird hostel.There,Bleacher and Mrs.Scrubitt (Olivia Colman) ,the owner to the hostel,cheat Wonka,and he ends owing many years for working.Yet,here,Wonky finds great friends (Noodle,Crunch,Piper,Larry and Lottie) who go through the same punishment than Wonka but they help him to achieve his dream.

Wonka is a bright and delighful movie from start to finish.Full of music,wonder and questioning of the social order.To my mind,Wonka is a very welcome reboot from the unforgettable film Charlie and the Chocolate factory.

...Don’t let anyone steal your dream,it’s your dream,not theirs…

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wonka_(film)

ROPE : Nothing ever held you like

 

Have you ever seen the film Rope? I am totally sure that if you are a filmmaking lover,you have seen it.Last year,it was its 75th anniversary.Today,from this humble blog,I’ll do another tribute of a Master of  suspense,Alfred Hitchcook.

Rope is an American thriller film.This masterpiece was directed by Alfred Hitchcock in 1948 and it was based on the play with the same name by Patrick Hamilton in 1929.It is important to remark that Rope was the first of Hitchcock’s technicolor film.This technique was really new to Hitchcock directions.Yet,its strong point was the plot and how this film was developed.It takes place over the course of one evening and with a unique scene,which was absolutely never watched on cinema industry.Furthermore,the great performance of James Steward is the key to its success.I must make clear that this film achieved negative views due to some controversial aspects,some Nazis ideas and how Hitchcock hides the sexual orientations of the main characters.Apart from these not welcome comments,the film is considered one of the most important movies in cinema history.

Manhattan,two brilliant  students,Brandon Shaw and Phillip Morgar are planning to commit a crime from a schoolmate.As an eccentric task,it involves to organize ‘the perfect murder’.Once they had made the homicide,the couple hides the body in a wooden chest.So,to run this experiment,they throw a party in their apartment in Manhattan,where are invited some acquaintances,include the victim’s father and Rupher Cadell (James Steward),who will be on the alert over this weird party .There,Brando uses the ceiling to a table and they try to prove that anyone is not going to realize that in this penthouse there is a death.

To my mind,Rope is a Hitchcock’s underrated classic.There is not doubt that Alfred Hitchcock contains some of the unique and the best filmmaking of it’s time.He was so far and ahead of filmmakers back then and so far ahead of a lot of the directors today.In layman’s terms,Rope is a must.

…Being weak is a mistake.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rope_(film)