Top 10 films of 2018

Welcome back to another edition of "J-Bang Reviews!" As we prepared to say goodbye to the strange year that was 2018, allow me to take you back as I recount what I consider to be the top 10 films of 2018. Now this list may be controversial but it is always great to remember that we all still have the 1st Amendment: Freedom of Speech. So if your list is different from mine, feel free to create a list of your own for everyone to read! Anyways, lets count em down...
                                                                 
                                                                      10. Halloween

Now let me start by saying "I do not consider myself a horror fan."As matter of fact, I HATE HORROR MOVIES. But for the past few years, I have experimented in watching them in an effort to better understand the psychology of both people who make them and people who watch them. Fast forward to October 2018, and here I am sitting in the front row, ready to watch the sequel to John Carpenter's original classic, and boy, was I entertained! Halloween (2018) follows a matured Laurie Strode, returning to fight back against the menace that is Michael Myers, and with that comes a new cast of characters for Michael to hunt down in horrific fashion. Gory. Tense. And surprisingly funny from time to time, this iteration of "Halloween" delivers on both the trick and the treat!

                                                                   9. Game Night

Truly one of the funniest comedies of the year, "Game Night" flew under the radar at the beginning of the year. Starring Jason Bateman, Rachel McAdams, and Winston from "New Girl," this film follows a group of friends having fun at one of their routine game nights until an unexpected series of events occur. Honestly, the less I say about this, the better because the whole narrative unravels in way that is both fun and completely unpredictable.

                                                  8. Won't You Be My Neighbor?

I'd be your neighbor any day Mr. Rogers! If you were ever a kid with a working TV set, you probably remember Mr. Rogers. Director Morgan Neville expertly conveys the sense of wonder and self acceptance that came with watching Mr. Rogers as a kid in his feature length documentary, "Won't You Be My Neighbor?" Full of charm and emotion, Director Morgan Neville showcases the life of Fred Rogers both in front of and behind the camera while also reminding us of the special message Fred Rogers himself tried to convey in his own metaphorical neighborhood. This movie will move you, one way or another!

                                                                       7. Hereditary

Whereas "Halloween" was a fun slasher flick, "Hereditary"...MESSED. ME. UP! After the passing of her mother, Annie, played by Toni Collette of "the Six Sense," must attempt to keep her family together during a state of mourning. But there is more than meets the eye in this haunting tale. Thanks to first time director Ari Aster, "Hereditary" keeps you in a state of constant dread and by the time the credits roll, you will feel like the life has been choked out of you for about 2 hours. Trust me. "Hereditary" is the first horror film to actually force me to try and sleep with the lights on...

                                                                 6. BlacKkKlansman

"BlacKkKlansman," or what I like to call "How Spike Lee Got his Groove Back," recounts the true story of how an African American Police Officer named Ron Stallworth infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan. Smart, Funny, and "Meta" as Hell, Director Spike Lee returns to what made his style of filmmaking "pop" in the first place. 

                                                                         5. Love Simon

Now I'm a sucker for "coming-of-age" films, especially from the 80s. That being said, I wasn't expecting to love "Love, Simon" for as much as I did. If you are afraid that you are not going to relate to anything in this film, fret not, for "Love, Simon" is a teen drama that funny, quirky, sometimes dramatic but even more heartwrenching from start to finish. It's ride that doesn't need explosions and one-liners to be riveting. By the time the stylish credits pop into frame, you will love Simon too.

                                                                       4. Black Panther

WAKANDA FOREVER! Marvel Studios changes the game again with "Black Panther," the first successful blockbuster with a near all black cast. Directed by Ryan Coogler, well known for "Creed" and "Fruitvale Station," "Black Panther" plays with the topic of "what if a hidden African nation had the resources to help out other black people, but chose not to?" A question I never even thought of until it caused the conflict between Chadwick Boseman's T'Challa and Micheal B. Jordan's scene-stealing Erik Killmonger. Full of visual spectacle and heavy drama, "Black Panther" makes you either feel blacker than you did before, or a Wannabe-Wakandan afterwards. 

                                                    3. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

Initially, the "Incredibles 2" had taken the place of number 3 on my list. That was until I watched "Into the Spider-Verse" last minute on a Monday afternoon. And Holy Sh*t, I was not expecting to get wowed like I was! Full of heart and charm, "Into the Spider-verse" introduces us to a whole new kind of Spider-Man in the young and energetic Miles Morales. But he's not the only one! There's Spider-Gwen! Spider-Noir! The classic Peter Parker we all know and love, and a talking pig dressed in a spider-man costume! Yeah, that's in the movie, and he's frickin hilarious. But the real star here is the animation which finds a new way to emulate the art style of an actual comic book. Congrats Sony, cause I think you might have given us the best animated film of the year!

                                                        2. Mission: Impossible- Fallout

I don't know what's crazier: The stunts director Christopher Mcquarrie pulled off in this film without killing anyone or Tom Cruise himself? Either way, if you are an adrenaline junkie, you just hit the jackpot with "Mission: Impossible-Fallout." Ethan Hunt is back to stop another world-breaking event with his ragtag group of IMF agents. But what makes "Fallout" different from previous Mission Impossible films? Better Cinematography. Better Soundtrack. Fast Paced Balls to the Wall Action! All of this combined creates the best pure action movie since "Mad Max: Fury Road!"

                                                            1. Avengers: Infinity War

"Dread it. Run from it. Destiny still arrives." These are the words said by the mad titan, Thanos, before he destroyed everything we ever loved in a span of 2 and a half hours. After 10 years of world building, Marvel Studios delivered on the biggest crossover event in cinematic history with "Avengers: Infinity War," directed by Anthony and Joe Russo. Filled up to the brim with action, adventure, quips and spectacle, the Russo Brothers managed to create an intense thrill ride with a narrative so wild and creatively twisted, that it will leave you in a heap of own tears as you try to understand what the hell just happened?! Easily my favorite movie of the year, "Infinity War" delivers on being one of the best superhero movies of the decade. 

From Worst to Best: 2018 Movies of the Summer

Welcome everybody to another controversial edition of J-Bang Rankings! Today, I am ranking all of the movies I saw this summer from the bad to the best! The summer season has always been known as "the season of summer blockbusters" and this year was no exception, but that's not to say that there weren't bad movies at the box office either. But be warned that this list is 100% constructed of my own opinion, so please respect it, and in return I will respect yours. Because, we're all humans, and as humans, each of us have a different taste in what we want and are guaranteed to have different opinions. And if your favorite movie is not listed, it's not because it wasn't worthy, it's simply because I had no interest in seeing it. That being said, let's rock and (rick)  roll...

                                                    9. Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom

Let me start off by saying that I absolutely LOVED the first "Jurassic World" movie. I thought it was the most fitting sequel to the original classic "Jurassic Park" and delivered all the excitement guaranteed from a summer blockbuster. That being said, I thought "Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom" was one of the worst movies I have seen in a long time. Going in, I knew this movie wasn't going to have a complex plot or anything, but this movie actually EXCEEDED my expectations on how stupid it got?! Hell, even the characters are so bad that I thought I was watching a high budget Saturday morning cartoon. The only saving grace this film has are the dinosaurs themselves, which prove to be more likable than anybody else in this film. To sum it all up, I would describe "Fallen Kingdom" as this: a horrible SyFy Channel movie with great special effects.
  
                                                               8. Sorry to Bother You

Now don't get me wrong, "Sorry to Bother You" is a very competent film. Stars Lakeith Stanfield and Tessa Thompson particularly shine in their roles, showcasing that moral stress that comes with trying to live and succeed in White America. The story and themes explored in this film are pretty much "A grade." But, for me personally, what makes this movie go from an A- to a C+ is the plot twist at the end of Act II. Sure, I do understand the deeper meaning behind it, but that doesn't excuse the fact that the message gets lost in translation, and ultimately becomes a literal wild goose chase about saving the abused lower class. I get it, but I don't get it. That's what made this film so disappointing to me as a young black male. It told a great story, but got lost in the spectacle of its own fantasy. 

                                                         7. Solo: A Star Wars Story

Surprisingly, this wasn't as bad as many people thought it was gonna be. "Solo: a Star Wars Story" is actually a fun adventure film that feels more like a "Star Wars" movie than "the Last Jedi" did. (FYI I loved the Last Jedi. Come @ me) Donald Glover steals the show as a young Lando Calrissian, and Alden Ehrenreich holds his own as the iconic gun slinger Han Solo. Sure, no one else is gonna play the part better than Harrison Ford did but Ehrenreich does bring something new, yet familiar, to the table. The only true problem that "Solo: a Star Wars Story" has that, well, it isn't really that memorable. It's a good time at the theaters, but nothing else. 

                                                           6. Ant Man and the Wasp

From start to finish, "Ant-Man and the Wasp" is overall a funny and extremely wholesome film. But coming from a hardcore Marvel fan like myself, Marvel's most recent entry proves to be somewhat forgettable. Considering it had to fall behind two of Marvel Studios most ambitious and iconic films, "Ant-Man and the Wasp" were destined to serve as a safe, low risk adventure to tide fans over from all the trauma they just endured this year (more on that later) Now don't get me wrong, the characters are amazingly compelling and the shrinking-growing special effects are top notch. But ultimately, "Ant-Man and the Wasp" is, just like "Solo," a good time at the theaters, but nothing more. (Minus the end credit scenes, of course)

                                                                   5. Deadpool 2

X's GONNA GIVE IT TO YA! "Deadpool 2" is another addition to the unexpectedly successful X-Men spin-off franchise. The always charming Ryan Reynolds returns to play the over the top"Merc with a Mouth" but also brings along the scene-stealing Zazie Beetz as the lucky Domino and Terminator knockoff, Cable, portrayed by the naturally intimidating Josh Brolin. (love him) "Deadpool 2" is chalk full to the brim with one-liners and references so dated, you'll laugh just because you think you're supposed to. (which is not always a bad thing) Although just as entertaining as the first one, this sequel does improve from its predecessor with much more brutal action set pieces. (courtesy of John Wick director David Leitch) All in all, Deadpool 2 is a chimichanga worth sinking your teeth into!

                                                                   4. Incredibles 2

A sequel damn well worth the wait! "Incredibles 2" gives us fans the long-waited return of the Parr family in action. The first film was...well...Incredible (I'm sorry), and is damn near unbeatable to top, but rather than try to out-do the original, returning director Brad Bird delivers an emotionally engaging superhero film that feels just as good as the original while also feeling also entirely different. "Incredibles 2" is a film both kids and adults can enjoy! As the old cliche would say, "it's fun for the whole family."

                                                              3. BlackkKlansman

Spike Lee's latest joint, "BlackkKlansman" brings the forenamed director back to what made his films so great in the first place. "BlackkKlansman" goes to places that many mainstream directors wouldn't even dare to venture. Following the undercover investigation of the Ku Klux Klan, Spike Lee showcases the racist tendencies of 1970s America while also exhibiting what the existence of the KKK means both to those who want to preserve it as well as those who want to destroy it. Weirdly enough, by the time the credits rolled, I felt like this could be a movie that everyone can watch, enjoy, and learn from...including racists. 

                                                        2. Mission:Impossible-Fallout

When I say "Mission: Impossible-Fallout" is the best pure action film since "Mad Max: Fury Road," I mean that shit! Starring the 56 year old Tom Cruise, (yep, fifty-freakin six) Ethan Hunt returns with his rogue team member of IMF agents to save the world from nuclear fallout. Now, I know when it comes to the Mission Impossible franchise, the story is usually the same. But how Fallout differs from the rest is franchise is: Beautiful cinematography, amazing soundtrack, and a SPECTACULAR ABUNDANCE OF PRACTICAL STUNT-WORK FROM TOM CRUISE HIMSELF. I mean, MY GOD?! The action feels so real that although the story adds drama, it's really the set pieces the creates the tension of almost dying over and over again.



                                          ...and the #1 summer movie of 2018 is...









                                                          1. Avengers: Infinity War

Was there ever any doubt? I mean "come on?" You had to see this coming! Being marketed as the culmination of a 10 year journey, Marvel Studios delivers a superhero epic that doesn't pull a single punch. With all hands on deck, every hero (minus Hawkeye and Ant-Man) we have been introduced to for the past 10 years must band together to take down a Mad Titan named Thanos, who is hell bent on collecting all 6 of the infinity stones in order to accomplish his mission: Wiping out half of the universe in existence. Thanks to the Russo Brothers directing at the helm, Marvel Studios delivers a film that makes you laugh, cry, hold your breath and breaks you heart over and over and over again...

The 10 Best Films of 2017

"Hey Man!" Welcome to 2018! Our government is on the brink of shutting down again and we are one step closer to Nuclear War! But hey! Look on the bright side! It's award season! And before we find out what films are going to be nominated for an Oscar this Tuesday, I invite you to read down a list of films that probably aren't gonna be nominated, but nevertheless, I believe were the best from the rest in the year 2017! And if you have any opinions, or a different list of favorite films throughout the year, feel free to jump into the comments section!

                                                                           10. IT

Look at that creepy mother-f*cker! Let's get something clear here: I HATE Horror movies! That's why you can imagine how shocked I was at how much I enjoyed this movie. On the surface, you think that "IT" is just a creepy clown movie, but it is so much more than that! It's a coming of age film that deals with the concept of facing your fears in a world that does not care about you! The young cast that headlines this movie showcases so much talent to oppose the legit terrifying performance of Bill Skarsgård's Pennywise the Dancing Clown. IT is scary, creepy, funny and ultimately a fun ride!

                                                                         9. Okja

Basically a big metaphor for the meat industry, "Okja" is the only Netflix original movie on this list. Following the classic story of a girl and her super-pig. "Okja" exhibits heart similarly seen in movies like "E.T." or "The Iron Giant." Although sometimes cute and heartwarming, the story of "Okja" can make you down right sick to your stomach. I can't say it is an easy watch, especially if you have pets. All and all, it is a film worth watching once, and I have not eaten a hot dog since...

                                                                       8. Dunkirk

War. War never changes. But director Christopher Nolan puts a new spin on how time factors into war in his latest film, "Dunkirk." Telling the daring story of 400,000 men trapped on a beach in enemy territory, "Dunkirk" follows three different story-lines converging on the land, sea, and air. Full of tension and drama, Nolan directs this war epic with nothing but the utmost respect and confidence.

                                                        7. Spider-Man: Homecoming

I like to think of this as the perfect summer movie. As many of you know, I am a big fan of TWO genres: Superhero movies and Coming of Age films with an 80s vibe. "Spider-Man: Homecoming" is the best of BOTH WORLDS! Following a young Peter Parker trying to balance his social life in high school and his ambitious goal of becoming an Avenger, Marvel Studios and Sony team up to create a near perfect blend of quirky comedy and heart-pounding action. "Spider-Man: Homecoming" packs a punch while also delivering one of the best plot-twists of the year!

                                                            6. Star Wars: The Last Jedi

Ooooooooohhhhh!!! CONTROVERSY!!! Out of the fans this movie has split in half, I was on the side that actually liked the movie. I personally consider "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" to be one of the best written Star Wars films ever released. And while also the riskiest, this Star Wars movie is jam-packed with unforgettable character moments and set pieces never seen before in the franchise. And as dark as this film can get, it also aims to tell an inspiring story of not letting the past define your future, and I believe that is a message everyone can get behind.

                                                     5. War for the Planet of the Apes

Unexpectedly moving. That is how I choose to describe "War for the Planet of the Apes." The grand finale of a rebooted trilogy offers more than just apes with guns. It's a depressing tale complimented with incredible CGI and mo-cap performances. Rather than being built on action, "War" offers a plethora of character moments that ironically makes the apes more human than actual humans.

                                                             4. Blade Runner 2049

So a long time ago in a galaxy far away, I watched the first Blade Runner film from 1982, and despite people calling it a "cinematic masterpiece," I hated it. So when I learned that a sequel had been announced, I truly did not care. Then one random Friday night occurred, and I was invited by a couple of friends to go see it at an art house theater I never heard of. By the time the credits started rolling, I was left in a daze of shock and awe. "Blade Runner 2049" is as beautiful to watch as it is compelling. Although long and slow, "Blade Runner 2049" earns my attention with its immersive performances from the cast, damn-near phenomenal cinematography and stunning visual effects. "Blade Runner 2049" asks questions you will be stuck trying to answer for hours beyond.

                                                                  3. Thor: Ragnarok

One of the funniest movies of the year, "Thor: Ragnarok" proves to be more of a slap-stick comedy that happens to have weird creatures, space gods and a friendly walking, talking pile of rocks. Directed by the hilariously eccentric Taika Waititi, "Ragnarok" follows Thor trying to stop the Goddess of Death, Hela, from destroying his home of Asgard. All while imprisoned on the gladiator fighting planet of Sakaar. This movie is just a flat out fun fast-paced thrill ride that will keep you smiling from beginning to end. Full of colorful and mesmerizing visuals to compliment the action and adventure, "Thor: Ragnarok" leaves you with the urge to go back and visit Sakaar!

                                                                          2. Logan

And from the funniest film of the year, comes the saddest. "Logan" gives actor Hugh Jackman his final performance as the legendary character we know as "the Wolverine." And my God, he does not disappoint! After discovering he has a daughter, Logan takes the new young mutant, Laura, and the last remaining factor of the X-Men, Charles Xavier across the country in an effort the escape the enemies hunting them and what's left of Mutant-kind down. The action is raw and brutal, but the acting is as powerful as it is compelling. "Logan" brings to the table a film that even rivals "The Dark Knight." As the most emotionally driven Superhero Film to date, it is safe to say that it is best to watch this with a box of tissues at hand.

                                                                          1. Get Out

STAY WOKE! Literally coming out of nowhere, Director Jordan Peele (yep. from "Key and Peele") creates a horror film that is intense as it is insightful. When Chris decides to go with his girlfriend, Rose, to visit her white family in a house located in the middle of nowhere, what follows is an unpredictable series of unfortunate events that calls into question the content of everyone's character. Smart, funny, and sometimes uncomfortable, "Get Out" crawls under your skin and stays there after you have finished watching...