Director: Cui Yan-Long Writer: Fan Jiu Wei Stars: Tingwei Liang, Na Shang, Qiu Shi-Yuan
The Legend of Mermaid (2020) Movie Review:
The title alone was enough to make me watch this because I've always been fascinated with mermaids, but knowing all the mermaid legends and stories, I had a feeling that the ending for this one might be heartbreaking to watch. There were two main romances in this and I loved both of them. One was cute and fun which balances out the bitter-sweet one.
Acting/Cast: When I saw the cast I was thrilled! I use to have the hugest fan girl crush on Kenny back when he debuted as the duo Boy'z. <3 Then he disappeared for the longest time. It's good to see him finally making it now in China! As for Zanilia, she caught my eye in the New My Fair Princess. Her acting is very similar to my favourite Korean actress Jang Nara, so of course I took a liking to her. She was adorable in this but sometimes a bit too silly and gullible. I loved her red dragon look towards the end.
Music: This drama was very instrumental and oriental sounding and I love that style. It's beautiful. The songs in this were all very, very emotional. It really is beautiful the songs. Though the music they had when they used magic bugged me quite a bit, it was a bit ridiculous..
Rewatch Value: It was cute. I really enjoyed watching the moments between the secondary leads. They were hilarious and the comedic relief in this drama. So I wouldn't mind rewatching some of those bits.
Overall: I haven't seen any mermaid dramas yet so this was a must watch for me and I loved it alot. Story wasn't the best, but the romance was definitely the strong point - and I'm a sucker for romance and of course a bit of comedy XD.
Rebel Moon Part 2 The ScarGiver (2024) Hindi Dubbed Review
The Scargiver” that makes the movie and its franchise seem essential? Director and co-writer Zack Snyder has already tried to whip up his fanbase by teasing “R-rated” versions of the first two entries in his ongoing “Star Wars” ripoff cycle, a lifeless homage to that other IPed-to-death sci-fi series. The well-covered struggle to release the Snyder cut of “Justice League” notably improved what was only ever a passable super-programmer. It’s also established an unfortunate precedent for how “Rebel Moon” is now being advertised, as a victim of its own release strategy.
Unfortunately, while I can’t review a version of “Rebel Moon—Part 2: The Scargiver” that I wasn’t allowed to see, I can say that I doubt more (or just more extreme) violence and sex will improve this joyless expansion of the previous movie’s Kurosawa-sploitation space opera. The shortcomings that kept the first “Rebel Moon” from ever taking off are still apparent in its sequel, particularly Snyder’s disinterest in his actors’ performances as well as this movie’s vast array of bland visuals and flavorless dialogue.
Like the last one, the latest “Rebel Moon” looks like it was rushed through production to compete with whatever “Star Wars” series is now streaming on Disney+. The Snyder faithful may see something in “Rebel Moon—Part 2: The Scargiver” that the rest of us can’t, but that doesn’t make this tired sequel any less puny.
Previously on “Rebel Moon”: A group of misfit rebels banded together and seemingly defeated the Imperial Space Nazis, led by the goofily accented Regent Balisarius (Fra Fee) and the lanky rage-case fascist Atticus Noble (Ed Skrein). Noble was killed at the end of “Rebel Moon—Part 1: A Child of Fire,” but even the end of that movie hinted that he wouldn’t be dead for long. Sure enough, he’s back again and now angry enough to retaliate against the smalltown farmers of Veldt, an idyllic moon with Smallville-style fields of space-grain, Oshkosh B’gosh catalog-ready space-farm children, and “Asterix”-type longhouses, too.
Who will save the people of Veldt, represented here by the young and ripped hunter Den (Stuart Martin) and the older but also chiseled Hagen (“A White, White Day” star Ingvar Sigurdsson)? The same motley crew as last time, still led by the scowling ex-general Titus (Djimon Hounsou, the generically mysterious Kora (Sofia Boutella), and her unconvincing love interest Gunnar (Michiel Huisman), the last of whom is also from Veldt. In case you’re wondering what else has changed since the last “Rebel Moon”: there’s a scene where our heroes share what they’re really fighting for, which they emphasize through momentum-throttling, voiceover-smothered flashbacks.
Among other acknowledged influences on the “Rebel Moon” movies, Snyder claims kinship with the graphic-design-forward and stoner-friendly “Heavy Metal” brand of comics, an inspiration that Snyder teases in Martin’s character name (named after Richard Corben’s serialized space-barbarian “Den” comics). I don’t see it, and it’s not because Martin isn’t obviously trying to emphasize the sheer immensity of his emotions.
I imagine that Den never lives up to his namesake because of of Snyder’s blunted vision and not Martin or his performance. For supporting evidence, see how often intensity and action figure poses stand in for character and detail in just about everyone else’s performances.
More is often less in “Rebel Moon—Part 2: The Scargiver,” not only when it comes to the movie’s sweaty, vein-activating performances, but also its over-exaggerated and under-choreographed action scenes. Kora and Gunnar’s overblown romance is also defined by bold, sweeping hints at romantic passion, like when he unbelievably confesses to her what motivates him: “It was you. It was losing you.” Never mind the gawky adolescent phrasing and the unbelievably flat line-reading—this gesture towards big-ness exemplifies the Snyder-y style of “Rebel Moon,” a series whose sound design is always more convincing, in both its nuance and sheer volume, than whatever’s on-screen.
Seeing “Rebel Moon—Part 2: The Scargiver” in a theater would probably be the best way to go, since that way you can hear the movie loud enough to imagine you’re watching something better. Then again, the fact that Netflix produced both movies—their most expensive production of 2023!—and is apparently now releasing at least two cuts per installment, suggests that not many people will be able to see this movie beyond their living rooms. In this light, it’s hard to imagine the necessity of a separate R-rated version of either movie.
The problem with the “Rebel Moon” movies isn’t that they need to be bigger or heavier to be better. If everything else feels as anemic and negligible as the non-sexual scenes in a floppy, overproduced porno, then I don’t think that adding more of everything will greatly enhance anything.
Directors: Alessandro Carloni, Jennifer Yuh Nelson
Writers: Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger, Ethan Reiff
Stars: Jack Black, Bryan Cranston, Dustin Hoffman
Kung Fu Panda 3 (2016) Hindi Dubbed Movie Review:
"Kung Fu Panda 3" continues the beloved saga of Po, the lovable panda voiced by Jack Black, as he embarks on a new adventure filled with laughter, action, and profound life lessons. Directed by Jennifer Yuh Nelson and Alessandro Carloni, this animated gem offers a delightful blend of humor, heart, and breathtaking animation that will captivate audiences of all ages.
At its core, "Kung Fu Panda 3" is a story about identity and belonging. As Po grapples with the challenges of mastering his newfound role as the Dragon Warrior, he is confronted with the arrival of his long-lost father, Li Shan, voiced by Bryan Cranston. Their reunion sparks a journey of self-discovery for Po, as he navigates the complexities of his dual identity as both a panda and a kung fu master.
The film's stunning animation brings the vibrant world of ancient China to life with breathtaking detail and artistry. From the lush bamboo forests to the majestic architecture of the Jade Palace, every frame is a visual feast for the eyes, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of the animation team.
Jack Black delivers another standout performance as the voice of Po, infusing the character with his trademark wit and charm. Po's journey of self-acceptance and growth resonates on a deeply emotional level, thanks to Black's heartfelt portrayal and the sincerity of the writing.
The supporting cast, including Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman, and J.K. Simmons, bring depth and nuance to their respective roles, adding layers of humor and humanity to the story. Newcomers Cranston and Kate Hudson inject fresh energy into the ensemble, creating memorable characters that leave a lasting impression.
What sets "Kung Fu Panda 3" apart is its ability to balance lighthearted humor with poignant moments of introspection and self-realization. The film tackles themes of family, friendship, and the importance of embracing one's true self with sensitivity and depth, leaving a powerful impact on viewers long after the credits roll.
As Po faces off against the formidable villain Kai, voiced by Simmons, audiences are treated to exhilarating martial arts sequences that showcase the beauty and grace of kung fu. The action-packed showdowns are complemented by a stirring musical score by Hans Zimmer, further heightening the emotional intensity of the film.
In conclusion, "Kung Fu Panda 3" is a heartwarming and uplifting tale that delivers on every front. With its endearing characters, stunning animation, and powerful themes, it's a must-watch for anyone seeking an entertaining and thought-provoking cinematic experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of the franchise or discovering it for the first time, "Kung Fu Panda 3" is sure to leave you smiling and inspired.
Writers: Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger, Ethan Reiff
Stars: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan
Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011) Hindi Dubbed Full Movie Review:
"Kung Fu Panda 2" is exactly as you'd expect, and more. The animation is elegant, the story is much more involving than in the original, and there's boundless energy. I enjoyed it as fully as I possibly could, given the horror of its 3-D. The original film, in 2-D wide-screen, was just fine. But never mind. Hollywood has brainwashed us (or itself) that 3-D is an improvement and not an annoyance.
What's best about this sequel is that it's not a dutiful retread of the original, but an ambitious extension. Of the many new elements, not least is the solution of the mystery of how Mr. Ping, a goose, could be the biological father of Po, a panda. In the original film, as nearly as I can recall, every character represented a different species, so I thought perhaps inscrutable reproductive processes were being employed. But no, Po's parenthood is explained here, and it has a great deal to do with new developments in the kingdom.
As we rejoin events in this mythical Chinese kingdom, Po (voice of Jack Black), having attained the status of Dragon Warrior in the first film, still leads the Furious Five: Tigress (Angelina Jolie), Mantis (Seth Rogen), Monkey (Jackie Chan), Viper (Lucy Liu) and Crane (David Cross). Of these Tigress is clearly the most formidable, and Mantis remains the enigma; even though he sounds like Seth Rogen, how does he get past the weigh-in?
The kingdom now faces the prospect that it will be conquered and ruled by the evil peacock Lord Shen (Gary Oldman), whose minions have designed a new weapon that causes him to scour the land for scrap iron. This Shen is a wicked foe, hurling sharp, pointed feathers from his tail like a circus knife-thrower. It turns out that the mystery of Po's parentage is explained by Lord Shen's paranoia after a soothsayer (Michelle Yeoh) tells him to beware of pandas, so their destinies are linked more deeply than Po can imagine.
Directors: Mark Osborne, John Stevenson Writers: Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger,Ethan Reiff Stars: Jack Black, Ian McShane, Angelina Jolie
Kung Fu Panda (2008) Hindi Dubbed Full Movie Review:
"Kung Fu Panda" is a story that almost tells itself in its title. It is so hard to imagine a big, fuzzy panda performing martial arts encounters that you intuit (and you will be right) that the panda stars in an against-all-odds formula, which dooms him to succeed. For the panda's target audience, children and younger teens, that will be just fine, and the film presents his adventures in wonderfully drawn Cinemascope animation. (It will also be shown in some IMAX venues.)
The film stars a panda named Po (voice of Jack Black), who is so fat he can barely get out of bed. He works for his father, Mr. Ping (James Hong) in a noodle shop, which features Ping's legendary Secret Ingredient. How Ping, apparently a stork or other billed member of the avian family, fathered a panda is a mystery, not least to Po, but then the movie is filled with a wide variety of creatures who don't much seem to notice their differences. They live in the beautiful Valley of Peace with an ancient temple towering overhead, up zillions of steps, which the pudgy Po can barely climb. But climb them he does, dragging a noodle wagon, because all the people of the valley have gathered up there to witness the choosing of the Dragon Warrior, who will engage the dreaded Tai Lung (Ian McShane) in kung-fu combat. Five contenders have been selected, the "Furious Five": Monkey (Jackie Chan), Tigress (Angelina Jolie), Mantis (Seth Rogen), Viper (Lucy Liu) and Crane (David Cross). Tigress looks like she might be able to do some serious damage, but the others are less than impressive. Mantis in particular seems to weigh about an ounce, tops. All five have been trained (for nearly forever, I gather) by the wise Shifu, who with Dustin Hoffman's voice is one of the more dimensional characters in a story that doesn't give the others a lot of depth. Anyway, it's up to the temple master Oogway (Randall Duk Kim), an ancient turtle, to make the final selection, and he chooses -- yes, he chooses the hapless and pudgy Po. The story then becomes essentially a series of action sequences, somewhat undermined by the fact that the combatants seem unable to be hurt, even if they fall from dizzying heights and crack stones open with their heads. There's an extended combat with Tai Lung on a disintegrating suspension bridge (haven't we seen that before?), hand-to-hand-to-tail combat with Po and Tai Lung, and upstaging everything, an energetic competition over a single dumpling.
"Kung Fu Panda" is not one of the great recent animated films. The story is way too predictable, and truth to tell, Po himself didn't overwhelm me with his charisma. But it's elegantly drawn, the action sequences are packed with energy, and it's short enough that older viewers will be forgiving. For the kids, of course, all this stuff is much of a muchness, and here they go again.
Directors: Mike Mitchell, Stephanie Stine Writers: Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger, Darren Lemke Stars: Jack Black, Awkwafina, Viola Davis
KUNG FU PANDA 4 (2024) Full Movie Review:
Kung Fu Panda 4 is the fourth entry to the Kung Fu Panda film franchise, the first instalment since 2016. This time around, Po is now preparing to become the new spiritual leader of the valley, meaning that his time as the Dragon Warrior is coming to an end and that he must now choose his successor to be the new Dragon Warrior. All while this is happening, a new shape-shifting villain, the Chameleon is planning to steal the kung fu abilities from all of Po’s former enemies, thereby making her an all-powerful kung fu master whom Po now has to confront.
The first three films make for a surprise trilogy if ever there was one. What could’ve been a goofy animated series made strictly for kids ended up being a quality trilogy with heartfelt stories, important life lessons, engaging characters, and a good look at the cultural side of kung Fu and how it’s more than just a bunch of fancy fighting moves. I really enjoy all three prior entries and found that they made for a solid trilogy. But with Hollywood being Hollywood, the cash cow needed a good milking and now we have a forced, unnecessary sequel. That said, a movie being superfluous doesn’t automatically make it bad. Toy Story 4 is a prime example of a completely unnecessary film that’s still an overall enjoyable movie in its own right, so now we see if Kung Fu Panda 4 can pull that off as well.
What worked in this movie, first and foremost, is the voice acting. Jack Black is back in the role of Po and he hasn’t lost a step. He’s clearly enjoying himself in the role and he’s a big part in what makes Po so likeable and enduring despite his bumbling and awkward self. Other supporting roles include Bryan Cranston, Dustin Hoffman, Viola Davis, and James Hong, all of them doing good jobs with the work they’re given. There’s really only one weak link when it comes to the voice acting and I’m sure you already know what it is, but we’ll get to that later. I still want to focus on the positives here.
This movie also has a good message regarding change and how you can open some great doors in your life if you’re willing to get out of your comfort zone and just go for whatever big change you want to make in life. It’s a good message on paper and this movie has one scene where the message is laid out front and center and it makes for one effective moment in the story. Granted, the story as a whole doesn’t fully lend itself to said message, but it’s still an overall important message for a younger generation and I appreciate the movie’s attempts at conveying it.
The animation, for the most part, is good. Or at least, it’s good enough given the movie having a relatively low budget compared to its predecessors. The animation is at its very best when you’re seeing a big wide shot of a landscape in China or when Chameleon is shape-shifting in some really creative ways. That said, the animation does have some weak spots in my mind’s eye. There are times when the skin and textures on characters looks a little too smooth and not fully rendered. It’s slightly noticeable in some close up shots of Po’s face and even background extras have the issue of looking unfinished. I won’t go so far as to say that it’s straight to streaming levels of bad, but it was noticeable for me, especially having rewatched the first three films right before seeing this one.
The movie’s problems come into play once we really get the plot rolling and the big issue is that of Awkwafina and her character of Zhen, Po’s new sidekick on this journey. At this point, I’m really starting to get annoyed with Awkwafina and her typecasting as the smartass sidekick. The truth is that she’s not even all that bad in this role, but it’s just more of the same of what we’ve seen from her in other roles. And from a character standpoint, she’s not given enough development for us to really care about the predictable emotional payoff that the movie has with her. The Furious Five are mostly absent from this movie and Master Shifu is basically only in the movie for the opening and third act, which is what I also didn’t like about Kung Fu Panda 2. I’ll die on the hill that the first film is every bit Shifu’s story as it is Po’s and Zhen just isn’t a compelling enough side character to make up for the absence of series regulars.
There’s also a side story involving Po’s two fathers, played by Cranston and Hong, as they also partake in their own adventure in Po’s wake. This whole subplot reeks of something that exists only to pad time and give the actors something to do since they have the actor's back. There’s a half-baked attempt at an arc with Po’s biological father, Li Shan, learning how to be brave, but it goes nowhere and it just feels redundant.
For the villain, I feel confident in saying that Chameleon is easily the franchise’s weakest villain so far. Viola Davis is honestly quite good purely from a voice acting point of view, but the character is thinly written with a very tired motivation and a backstory that doesn’t even make sense the more you start to think about it. She feels like an afterthought when all is said and done and I think her name of just “The Chameleon” is just lazy. Po’s other enemies from the previous films won’t go down as some of the best antagonists in film history, but they at least fit with the themes of their respective films and they had their own identities. Hell, even Tai Lung makes an appearance in this movie for the sake of nostalgia bait and I wanted to see more of him than Chameleon. When it all comes down to things, the movie just feels tired and it’s clearly following a formula that doesn’t take any big risks. Po’s journey with Zhen to fight the Chameleon is a very straightforward, predictable adventure and it makes for an animated film that I found to be a little boring in some scenes. The pace doesn’t move nearly as quick as any of the other three films and there came a point where I checked the time on my phone expecting to see that we were nearing the end of the 90-minute runtime, only to see that the movie had just barely made it past the half-hour mark. For a movie that’s exact runtime is an hour and thirty-four minutes, that’s borderline unforgivable.
Overall, Kung Fu Panda 4 is a low point for this film series. While not a truly bad movie, it still just suffers from feeling like a generic animated adventure of the week with a story and jokes that feel as if they were marketed mostly for kids. The first three movies are animated films that can be enjoyed by anyone of any age, but this movie doesn’t have that broad appeal. It’s a forced sequel that can’t justify its existence and now I have to live in my own little headspace where I pretend that this story was neatly wrapped up in just three films.
Director: Ali Abbas Zafar Writers: Aditya Basu, Vashu Bhagnani, Suraj Gianani Stars: Akshay Kumar, Alaya F, Prithviraj Sukumaran
Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (2024) Full Movie Review:
The much-anticipated action flick 'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan' starring Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff hit theatres on Eid, garnering a flurry of reactions from moviegoers and social media users. The film, directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, also features Manushi Chhillar and Alaya F in pivotal roles, with Prithviraj Sukumaran as the antagonist.
Moviegoers' Critiques
Initial reviews on social media painted a mixed picture. Venky Reviews gave it a 2.5-star rating, describing it as a typical action film witha predictable screenplay and lack of emotional depth. He remarked, "#BadeMiyanChoteMiyan is a run-of-the-mill action film...doesn’t offer anything new...the screenplay is predictable...a so-so time-pass film that is mostly forgettable.
Some viewers were more critical, labelling it as a disappointing endeavour. One moviegoer expressed, "Fails miserably as an action movie...poorly executed scenes...one of the worst action movies I've seen." Another pointed out similarities with other films, stating "Scenes copied from War and Pathaan...music and background does nothing to elevate the story."
However, not all feedback was negative. Akshay Kumar's fans praised the film's entertainment quotient. A fan exclaimed, "Overloaded with masala highlights
Prithviraj's performance, character design, humour, VFX, and scale...a one-time watch.
Pushpa: The Rule - Part 2 (2024) Full Movie Review:
Directed by Sukumar, "Pushpa: The Rule - Part 2" continues the saga of the titular character, Pushpa, portrayed by the talented Allu Arjun. The film reunites audiences with the rugged landscapes of the red sanders smuggling underworld, where Pushpa navigates through treacherous territory to establish his dominance.
Building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, "Pushpa: The Rise," the sequel delves deeper into Pushpa's character, exploring his motivations, struggles, and relentless pursuit of power. Allu Arjun delivers a powerhouse performance, seamlessly transitioning between moments of vulnerability and moments of sheer grit and determination.
Rashmika Mandanna shines once again as Srivalli, bringing warmth and depth to her character amidst the chaos of Pushpa's world. Fahadh Faasil's portrayal of the menacing antagonist adds an extra layer of tension and intrigue to the narrative, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
The ensemble cast, including Jagapathi Babu, Anusuya Bharadwaj, and Prakash Raj, deliver stellar performances, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the story. Their interactions with Pushpa add depth to the character dynamics, showcasing the complexities of human relationships in a world driven by power and ambition.
Visually stunning and meticulously crafted, "Pushpa: The Rule - Part 2" immerses audiences in its gritty world, thanks to Sukumar's masterful direction and the awe-inspiring cinematography. From the bustling streets of the urban jungle to the rugged terrain of the forests, every frame is a visual treat, enhanced further by the captivating background score.
One of the film's strengths lies in its ability to balance intense action sequences with moments of emotional resonance. Whether it's a heart-pounding chase through the wilderness or a quiet exchange between characters, each scene is infused with a sense of urgency and authenticity that keeps viewers invested from start to finish.
The screenplay, penned by Sukumar and his team of writers, expertly weaves together multiple narrative threads, seamlessly blending elements of drama, suspense, and adrenaline-pumping action. The pacing is relentless, ensuring that there's never a dull moment as the story hurtles towards its electrifying climax.
As the second installment in the Pushpa series, "Pushpa: The Rule - Part 2" not only lives up to the expectations set by its predecessor but also surpasses them in many ways. It's a gripping tale of ambition, loyalty, and sacrifice, anchored by strong performances and a compelling storyline.
In conclusion, "Pushpa: The Rule - Part 2" is a must-watch for fans of the action-thriller genre. With its engaging plot, dynamic characters, and breathtaking visuals, it cements Pushpa's status as one of contemporary cinema's most iconic protagonists. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this cinematic masterpiece on the big screen when it hits theaters on August 15th.
Director: Shawn Levy Writers: Shawn Levy, Rhett Reese, Ryan Reynolds Stars: Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin
Deadpool & Wolverine Movie Review:
Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman are back together onscreen as Deadpool and Wolverine. The two of them have been teasing for quite a few years that they will be coming together as popular superhero characters, and finally, for all the fans the dream is coming true. Just yesterday Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman announced that the trailer Deadpool & Wolverine would be released soon, and giving fans a massive surprise, they have now released the trailer for ‘Deadpool And Wolverine’.
People would be wondering that Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine died in ‘Logan’, so how is he back alive now? Well, what’s interesting is that this Hugh Jackman is from a different multiverse. From what can be gauged in the trailer, this Wolverine’s world was destroyed, and reportedly, he couldn’t save anyone. That’s why when Deadpool reaches him and asks for help to save our world, Wolverine initially rejects his idea. But somehow or the other, the two fight it out and make peace finally.
What’s interesting is that the makers have used the multiverse concept and the concept of time keepers in order to bring Wolverine and Deadpool together in the same timeline. Also, this would be the first time the X-Men are going to become a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Talking of the MCU, you can clearly see that a giant Ant Man is used as a cave by the villain, who is apparently Charles Xavier’s evil twin sister, Cassandra Nova. The giant Ant Man must have succumbed in this world and his body has been hollowed out and used as a hiding den by Cassandra Nova. Mind you, it’s not the Ant Man suit, it’s the actual skeleton of Ant Man. Let’s wait and watch how this mystery is solved about how Ant Man falls into the scheme of things in this world.
Overall, the trailer gives out very little but creates a lot of intrigue, and that’s good as it’s going to make viewers more eager for the release of the summer flick.
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