tomdude0

Sometimes critics get too full of themselves around Oscar season and want to seem like they are sophisticated, cultured filmgoers with refined taste who accept only the highest standard of movies. This leads them to write scathing reviews of films that are not necessarily "high art" in order to seem credible. Bright is a victim of this phenomenon. Is it a perfect movie? Absolutely not. Does it deserve a 30% on RT or whatever it is? Absolutely not.

The world of Bright is something I have never seen in movies before; an alternate present where fantasy creatures live alongside humans. The visuals in Bright are amazing. The detail that went into the set pieces, into each shot of this urban fantasy LA, really made me believe in this universe. From the very opening shot, not once did I doubt that the world of Bright was real. This movie deserves Oscar nominations in all the makeup and visual categories. Bright will make you believe.

I was hooked from the title sequence. The filmmakers have created an amazing universe that I want to see more of. My biggest gripe is that Bright could have easily been 20 minutes longer, and all the better for it. Too many seemingly key characters just don't have enough screen time. I wanted to see more exposition regarding the world's history and the villains. I can't help but think that maybe Bright would've worked better as a TV series.

Yes, the plot is somewhat predictable. Yes, there are loose ends. Yes, there are thinly written characters. Bright has its fair share of flaws. But it has far more redeeming qualities. Will Smith and Joel Edgerton work great together. Edgerton is especially fantastic. And I just cannot emphasize enough how visually stunning this movie is. Bright doesn't make the mistake of trying to be any more than what it is, an urban fantasy buddy cop thrill ride set in the underbelly of LA. I, for one, am excited for the sequel because this universe is amazingly unique.

Do not believe the critics. They've forgotten how to have fun watching a fun movie. Is Bright the next great cop movie? No. Is it the next great fantasy movie? No. Is it as bad as the critics say? Absolutely not. Should you watch it? Absolutely.

xxxHolic is an incredibly unique anime. It follows Watanuki Kimihiro, a high school student who can see spirits and is plagued by them on an everyday basis. One day, he wanders into the wish-granting shop of the witch Yuko, who claims that she can grant any wish in exchange for a price. So, Watanuki becomes a part-time employee at her shop in exchange for the granting of his wish: to no longer be able to see spirits. And thus, we are thrown into the world of the supernatural as it appears in everyday life.

Using superstitions and other paranormal aspects, xxxHolic conveys messages and morals with humor and some actual frights. xxxHolic presents a look at life from a very unique perspective. A must-see.

I went to the theater with my friend, with the intention of seeing Skyfall. However, upon finding out that all showings of Skyfall had been sold out, and that the next theater we went to wasn't even playing it, we settled on Wreck-It Ralph, since we had both also been wanting to see it. I went in with high expectations, and the film did not disappoint--in fact, in exceeded my expectations.

The story, while it seems rather formulaic as a kids' animated movie, is really quite good. The writing is solid and provides the audience with an excellent understanding of just about every character. The film, thankfully, is not predictable and actually kept me guessing towards the end.

The characters themselves are incredibly likable. Ralph isn't exactly the archetype hero, but we are shown that despite his tall height and short temper, he's really a good guy. Fix-It Felix and Calhoun provide some excellent comic relief. Jane Lynch's voice acting is superb. But the real gem of the film is Vanellope, who is probably the most adorable thing I've ever seen. It's simply impossible not to like her.

Wreck-It Ralph is as good as it gets. With an amazing cast of characters, bright animation, and a story that's filled with genuine emotion, this movie melted away all my masculinity. I haven't teared up this much at the end of a movie since Toy Story 3. I cannot describe this movie any other way except to say that it is perfect.