The Last Stand: Review of Avengers: Infinity War

Avengers: Infinity War

Directors: Joe and Anthony Russo

By Alex Watson

Marvel fans everywhere have been waiting for the day their heroes would square off against big bad Thanos. Well, Avengers: Infinity War is unlikely to disappoint. Throwing in everything but the kitchen sink for the ultimate showdown, directors Joe and Anthony Russo pull off one hell of a balancing act. While its conclusion may polarize viewers, no one can deny the sheer thrill levels of this instalment.

Overlord Thanos (voiced by Josh Brolin) is continuing his reign of terror while seeking the rest of the infinity stones. The Avengers are attempting to put a halt to his progress, but their efforts are proving futile. Not helped by the strained relations between Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr) and Captain America (Chris Evans). Also, the Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) seems to be suffering from severe performance anxiety.

From the first frame of Avengers: Infinity War the Russo Brothers shoot to thrill. The arrival of Thanos was forever teased in early instalments, but his first full outing is a major success. A hulking purple monster, this man is a pulverising force to be reckoned with. However, there is also a depth to him at key points which is surprising. Especially when examining his difficult relationship with adopted daughter Gamora (Zoe Saldana). Rather than beginning with an orgy of CGI, Infinity War war starts with a jolt as certain characters we know and love are... dealt with. In this instalment, our love is truly tested and there will be gut-wrenching moments. Thanos is a ruler whose madman tendencies are weirdly philosophical and his logic comes off as cold and calculated.

Our Avenger teams are broken up into several brilliantly formed factions. Stark and Dr Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) must not only contend with their own ego's but also with Peter Parker (Tom Holland),  Peter Quill (Chris Pratt), Drax (Dave Bautista) and the other Guardians. Thor forms a delightful and hilarious threesome with Rocket (Bradley Cooper) and Groot (Vin Diesel). Finally, the exiled warriors of Civil War Steve Rogers, Hulk, Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), Bucky (Sebastian Stan), Falcon (Anthony Mackie) and the King himself T'Challa (Chadwick Boseman) take up fighting residence in Wakanda.  The sheer quality of this cast alone could power this picture, but instead, each of these teams brings their own unique brand of charm. Thanos knows how each character ties into each group and this is where he emerges as a formidable opponent. Each time one of the squares off against him, it can mean potential ruin for the earth. Emotions run deep in this one and there will be many acts of sacrifice- prepare yourself for some hard moments.

The best aspect of Avengers: Infinity War is how the Russo's are able to make this such a fun ride. There are little moments throughout which are simply brilliant such as Thor and Quill attempting to one-up each other at family backstories. Also, several minor MCU characters make wonderful reappearances to leave no stone unturned. The third act is usually a problem is most Marvel movies, but this time the Russo Brothers brilliantly pull each character together for one hell of a finale. Making so much look so cool and effortless is not an easy task, but this time excitement levels are through the roof. However, then comes an ending which will likely floor its audience. I won't give away a sliver of information, but I will advise the audience to expect everything and be prepared for some tragic moments. Thanos is not considered the ultimate bad guy for nothing and squaring off against him will leave severe damage.

Josh Brolin's voice alone gives shivers down our spine whenever Thanos appears on screen. A thumping and unpredictable villain, his whole logic of splitting the universe in half is skewed. However, in the hands of Brolin he makes it look so compelling and underneath his exterior, we see a tortured soul. The rest of the cast, as usual, works wonderfully together. Having Downey Jr and Cumberbatch share screen time makes for some wonderful and egotistical petty squabbles. Chris Hemsworth has now given Thor such natural on screen humour that he wins each scene he appears in. Mark Ruffalo is also scene stealingly brilliant as Bruce Banner and his frustration and embarrassment at the Hulk not wanting to come out is consistently funny.

Avengers: Infinity War is the big get together Marvel fans have always wanted. On sheer enjoyment alone- this is unmissable.

Hammer Time: Review of Thor: Ragnarok

Thor: Ragnarok

Director: Taika Waititi

By Alex Watson

After the underwhelming sequel, 'The Dark World' many Thor fans were left wondering where the Thor could possibly go next? Getting Taiki Waititi in the director's chair was the smartest move imaginable. Thor: Ragnarok is a sharp and funny ride that finds its humor in very unlikely places. Unlike previous director`s, Waititi is given free reign and the success of the movie comes from his lack of reliance on action scenes.

When estranged sister Hela (Cate Blanchett) aka the Goddess of Death returns, Thor (Chris Hemsworth) finds himself in a tricky situation. Exiled the garbage planet of Sakaar, he finds himself forced to fight as a gladiator for the Grandmaster (Jeff Goldblum). However, while on this planet he finds himself reacquainted with his old buddy Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo) and once more facing off against troublesome brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston).

After showcasing his unique brand of funny in his acclaimed movie `Hunt for the Wilder People`, Waititi was an unusual candidate for Thor: Ragnarok. He proves to be an inspired choice because he is the first director to really channel the comic gold this character has. Watching a dangling Thor slowly enraging villainous demon Surtur (voiced by Clancy Brown) during a threatening monologue immediately sets the tone. In other hands, the mashed together plot involving usurping, past murders and slavery could have been a messy affair. Waititi makes it seems like a breeze and keeping the focus on comedy makes this a much better viewing experience.

When Thor literally arrives with a bump on Sakaar, much of the comedy is found here. Grandmaster is the most Goldblum role that Jeff Goldblum will ever play. A smooth-talking tyrant with his fingers in many pies, Thor's entry into being a gladiator couldn't have been worded more nicely. The showdown in the arena between Odinson and the Hulk gives us a hilarious verbal and physical battle. This also lasts outside the walls as the pair squabble throughout, including a brilliant reaction by Thor to seeing the Hulk's green dick. Waititi, also plays the scene-stealing rock gladiator Korg, in his soft-spoken voice he provides the bulk of belly laughs. There's also the added problem of Loki being around. Morally ambiguous at every turn, once more his brother makes it hard for him. In this installment, sibling rivalry is present but almost takes a backseat. Although we do learn how they play the game 'Get Help' (recommended for all to try at least once).

As a villainess, Hela feels like Thor: Ragnarok's weak link. Although central to the plot she just comes across as just a moody and bitter relative. Banished from Asgard after her genocidal desires outgrew her father's, Hela has the potential to have a cold, malevolent presence. While she physically matches Thor, she lacks any kind of real threat. Although there is a fine supporting turn from Tessa Thompson as a former Valkyrie. Scarred by her past encounter with Hela, Valkyrie has resorted to heavy drinking and slave capturing to get by. Getting her on board to protect Asgard is a major hurdle and she makes Thor work for it. The emotional content of this movie also makes Ragnarok creak slightly. Waititi effortlessly blended heavier content with a light touch in Wilder people but for a picture like this, it feels unnecessary. When a movie crams so much into one film, they can't all winners, unfortunately. Aside from this, there are few grips to be had and Waititi is welcome back to tickle our ribs anytime.

Chris Hemsworth has molded Thor so well it fits him perfectly. One of the few action movie stars capable of both great depth and sheer comedy, Hemsworth once more stands out. Tom Hiddleston again makes a great love/hate figure. His facial expressions alone make his character impossible to pin down and Hiddleston is clearly loving every minute. Cate Blanchett should have been a fine nemesis but finds herself stranded in a one-note role. Mark Ruffalo is also able to find his funny side as Banner. Hilarious neurotic and forced to wear Tony Stark's tight pants, he is barely keeping his green friend inside. Anthony Hopkins in one very brief scene still shows just why he is one of few remaining greats. In a single monologue, he can conjure up feelings of remorse, fear and ultimately hope. It's a shame the central pairing didn't get more time alongside him.

Thor: Ragnarok is very much the strongest of the trilogy so far. Taika Waititi proves he can handle the big-budget pieces and let's hope the Marvel Universe brings him back for the next installment.

City of Ghosts: Review of Spotlight

TIFF EXCLUSIVE

Spotlight

Director: Thomas McCarthy

By Alex Watson

Thomas McCarthy's movie Spotlight is one that gives a powerful voice to the victims covered in the Boston Globe's 2001 Pulitzer winning campaign. All the way through this movie treads a fine line between what journalistic boundaries are allowed to be crossed. It may be lacking the needed tension and the lead characters are not nearly as well-developed as we would like. But the feeling of past trauma's being painfully dragged forward is an emotional force that drives the movie. 

Boston Globe reporters Walter Robinson (Michael Keaton), Sasha Pfeiffer (Rachel McAdams) and Michael Rezendes are all members of the Spotlight section. When their new editor Marty Baron (Liev Schreiber) takes an interest in an old case that hints at a sex abuse scandals involving catholic priests, they begin to dig deeper. However, the further they go old wounds become reopened and throughout their investigation it becomes clear the rabbit hole goes further they ever imagined! 

One of the main strong points of Spotlight is the feel of the close-knit community of Boston that is key to their investigation. People in this heavily catholic city do not like talking, especially when it involves speaking up about past trauma's. Soon it becomes apparent that this paper was tipped off about this scandal years before, but chose to bury it. Baron although a quiet almost background like figure is the one who gets the ball rolling. The statues of limitations is largely biased against survivor claims and it becomes clear that some lawyers are willing defending guilty clergymen to line their own pockets. Only determined lawyer, Mitchell Garabedian (Stanley Tucci) is willing to fight to get the case tried in open court. The legal obstacles both progress and hinder the story and in places make the movie feel longer than necessary

The lead characters are the ones given the principal focus and this does slightly interfere with the narrative. Also they do not feel nearly as explored as they could have been, Rezendes and Robinson are both weary and burned out men who live for their jobs. Sasha while her uncertainty about her catholic faith makes for an interesting side note isn't really a character who holds our attention. McCarthy does well keep the movie driving along despite a slightly stalling feel story wise. His movie does contain some real stand out scenes which have the ability to shock, such as Sasha's interview with an old priest who happily admits to molesting boys. The scene is so tongue in cheek, you wonder if should dare laugh at such things? 

Overall Spotlight is a strong effort from Thomas McCarthy and he does succeed in shedding a heavy light on the effects of the abused, many of whom were kids from tough neighborhoods seeking comfort. As one survivors puts it "It was like God coming to your home" and their betrayal combined with their lifetime of shamed silence have torn lives apart. The voices of the innocent are ones that touch the central trio greatly and in the wake of events such as 9/11 occurring, the desire to bring forward the injustice suffered is always burning. There are always mentions that high up church members were aware for years of scandal happening. Soon into McCarthy's film, you get the distinct impression that God has abandoned this city long ago. 

Michael Keaton keeps up his fine form after his great turn in Birdman last year. Robinson is a jaded editor of a small section who is just trying to do the right thing. Keaton however doesn't go for fireworks and instead comes off as the cool and collected member of the picture. Mark Ruffalo is the figure who truly holds our attention as Rezendes and throughout is a ball of energy. His bitterness towards his betrayed beliefs in his catholic upbringing makes for some intense work. Ruffalo could well be an interesting consideration for a supporting actor prize. Stanley Tucci once more give a scene stealing masterclass as Mitchell Garabedian. His wish to see wrongs righted, no matter what the cost marks him out as one of the few honest men around. 

Thomas McCarthy is slowing adapting himself to life in the mainstream and Spotlight is a movie that is a puts him on course. It may have its flaws, but you cannot deny the power of story telling here. The people involved in this scandal were put to justice, but the scars of the actions taken will live forever.

Brotherhood of Buccaneers: Review of Avengers: Age of Ultron

Avengers: Age of Ultron

Director: Joss Whedon

By Alex Watson

Although a darker and less jokier flick than we might have expected, Joss Whedon is again consistent with Avengers: Age of Ultron. But unlike its gleeful predecessor, there is an air of warning and madness present from the start. Which culminates in a creation that truly loathes its creators. However, even though it scores highly on the thrill level, you can't help but feel that this franchise is beginning to wear a little thin!

Completing a dangerous mission against a HYDRA base, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr) wish to great artificial intelligence creation that will be protector to humans. Only his creation that arrives, Ultron (James Spader) immediately comes to hate humanity and sets about on a mission to destroy it! Matched against an unstoppable being along with fellow experimental beings Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen) and Quicksilver (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). The Avengers have a hard mission ahead.

What perhaps sets Avengers: Age of Ultron apart is the fact that a great shadow of doubt has come across this once strong fraternity of superhero's. Captain America (Chris Evans) is starting to feel the strain of his role as protector, while Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo) is beginning to have doubts over not only his relationship with Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) but whether he can exist among humans at all? Even Tony Stark is cast is near villian mode as it is his meddling with the forces of AI that brings about one un-godly creation! But amidst the cracks appearing, this unit has learn to work as a team- just watch Thor (Chris Hemsworth) slam the Caps shield into a HYDRA man's face! 

Emerging like a more sinister Frankenstein's monster, Ultron is a living and vengeful being who decides the only way to save humanity, is to destroy the earth! Constantly slippery and evolving, Ultron provides the ultimate obstacle to the Avengers. But his brother and sister companions Wanda/Scarlet Witch and Pietro/Quicksliver make for fine lieutenants. Particularly as through her mind mangling abilities, Wanda brings their worst fears to life before their eyes. It is shown Iron Man his post New York trauma that will result in him behaving more irrationally than usual!

But although Whedon has now fitted the style of this group like a glove and his command of the action scenes is breathlessly executed- you can't escape the thought that Avengers:Age of Ultron is now all too familiar. The finale is once set in the air (now a Marvel staple it seems) and while thrilling and very unpredictable, it just doesn't give you the rousing feeling that you felt when this team was first together. His excellent use of characterization firmly keeps everything afloat and the new additions are being worked in nicely, even Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) gets his own part of the story after being drastically underused.

Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth are as usual fine in their customary roles, but unlike before they are not as memorable. These characters are beginning to feel like fresh with every appearance and even some neat changes doesn't completely change things. The real star turn goes to Mark Ruffalo who exhibits a fine inner conflict as Bruce Banner who for once is truly doubting his place in the world and fears for not only his own safety, but the rest of human kind! James Spader however makes for a magnificent Ultron! Like a bad seed done drastically wrong, his lament for humans is well felt and through his gravely yet commanding voice, one of the best Marvel villains is born!

Avengers: Age of Ultron is a still a great night of entertainment, and I understand that they are far from being done. But this Marvel universe is feel a little overcooked these days. The films will still come thick and fast (the two part Infinity War installment is due for 2018), but they will struggle to match the joy of old. But Whedon's darker take on events is still worth viewing, especially if you like the Hulk finally being unleashed!

After The Fox: Review of Foxcatcher

Foxcatcher

Director: Bennett Miller

By Alex Watson

After winning the Best Director award at Cannes this year, director Bennett Miller returns to our screen with his critically acclaimed movie Foxcatcher. Based on the true of former wrestlers Mark and Dave Schultz and their charismatic yet mentally unstable coach John DuPont, this could make for one of 2014's most riveting drama's!

John DuPont (Steve Carrell) is a millionaire wrestling enthusiast who is desperate to bring glory to his team 'Foxcatcher'. To get closer to his aim of winning a gold at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, he recruits wrestler Mark Schultz (Channing Tatum) who despite past glory lives in shadow of his brother Dave (Mark Ruffalo). Although he is giving both men a chance of a life time, soon it appears that DuPont may not be the man he seems. Fatal consequence will soon follow on the grounds of Foxcatcher Farm!

Foxcatcher is a superb return to the screen for Miller and from an early stage the slowly cooking tension grabs us and refuses to let go. At the heart of the story is a tale of two brothers living under the constant uncertain gaze of their rich benefactor. From the get go, Mark is a man who is continually depressed at being second fiddle to successful brother Dave. Despite also being an Olympic Gold Medalist in the 1984 Los Angeles games, no one around seems to care and only seems to tolerate him to please Dave. His older brother is always affectionate and loving towards Mark, but the pent up tension is always hovering and is best demonstrated when an early warm up session between siblings turns into a minor battle!

When DuPont seemingly seeks out Mark to be the new face of his mission, the guy cannot believe his good fortune and their somewhat bizarre father/son relationship gives him a new found belief. Throughout Miller's movie, John's intentions for Mark remain ambiguous and the most electric part is the parts that are left unseen. Although there is a seemingly sexual undercurrent to their relationship, it soon appears that like before, John might just be using him to get Dave on board! The moment that Mark realizes that his benefactor prefers older brother, his world begins to fall apart. One sequences seems him easily lose an Olympic trial then gorge himself in frustration, only an extreme work out from Dave will save him here.

But it's the mysterious millionaire himself who provides Foxcatcher's real fuse. John DuPont's is an difficult and aristocratic figure who is a unique mix of charm yet an isolated figure among the big grounds of his Pennsylvania home. His persona is almost identical to a spoiled man-child because whenever he doesn't get his way, his top tends to blow. At first he seems to sympathize with Mark's feelings as he himself is forever under the disappointed stare of his mother Jean (an excellent Vanessa Redgrave) who chides him for participating in a 'low sport'. His level of control and money invested allows him to manipulate and control Mark as he pleases, Dave is also forced to play nice and indulge his boss despite his concerns.

In this absorbing and pulsating film, we are given a triumvirate of brilliant performances, which is led by a career best turn from Steve Carrell. Almost unrecognizable under prosthetic's, Carrell excellently captures DuPont sense of agony with himself and his edgy and almost vague personality. Throughout this film his actions become increasingly erratic and his presence immediately strikes up an unbalanced feel. Carrell here emerges as a strong contender for the big prizes come awards time and for anyone who doubts his ability, this role will provide a strong case for him.

Channing Tatum is equally strong as the frustrated Mark and through minimal use of words, he brings to light the disappointment and anguish he feels within. But it is his ability to bring forward the sad and exposed feel of his character that makes this performance so memorable. Mark is firmly the one our sympathy lies with but we know we cannot stop his slide. Mark Ruffalo once more proves to be a reliable supporting man and as loving brother Dave he gives the movie a more warm and emotional feel. But his love for his younger sibling is not firmly reciprocated, his attempts to break through this draw us to us to Dave for the duration of Miller's film.

Foxcatcher is a movie that deserves the fine praise heaped upon it so far during release. Boasting some Oscar worth direction, it is a movie that proves to be gripping mixed with an immense feeling of sadness mixed with loneliness. Highly recommended!

Five TIFF Movies to Get Excited About

From September 4th -14th, the Toronto Film Festival will be upon us in the province of Ontario and I am looking forward to my time volunteering at this prestigious festival no matter capacity that may be! With stars such as Denzel Washington, Julianne Moore, Tom Hardy, Mark Ruffalo and Benedict Cumberbatch paying us a visit it is hard not to get excited. Here are five movies that I will definitely seeking tickets to,

Foxcatcher (Dir: Bennett Miller)

Winner of the Best Director award at this year's Cannes Film Festival, Moneyball director Bennett returns with what could prove to be one of this years most absorbing movies. Based on the real story of Olympic wrestlers John Schultz (Channing Tatum) and his Gold Medalist brother Dave (Mark Ruffalo) and their troubled relationship with schizophrenic coach John Du Pont (Steve Carrell). With an excellent cast (including a break out turn from Carrell) and a superb director this promises big things come awards time!

Maps to the Stars (Dir: David Cronenberg)

One of Toronto's most loved names returns with a movie that is currently making waves and has been selected to be one of the festivals closing night films. With a star turn from Julianne Moore as an egocentric actress living on the edge of insanity,  along with Mia Wasikowska and John Cusack protraying a father and daughter with a troubling past- from the rave reviews it received at Cannes, this could well be another feather in Cronenberg's already established modern day cap!

Men, Women and Children (Dir: Jason Reitman)

One of the more low key arrivals the festival, but after its trailer has finally arrived it has firmly grasped our attention. The story is surrounded in mystery, but from its impressive ensemble cast including Emma Thompson, Jennifer Garner, Dennis Haysbert, Ansel Elgort and errm... Adam Sandler! Jason Reitman's movie could be an engaging look at the dark secrets that people we know hold inside and the potential dangers of using the internet! Reitman's track record has been spotless so far and this movie seems certain to continue that tradition!

Wild (Dir: Jean-Marc Vallee)

Dallas Buyers Club director, Jean-Marc Vallee, makes a welcome return to the festival circuit with another hard hitting drama that focuses on addiction and the 1100 Pacific Crest Trail hike of Cheryl Strayed (Reese Witherspoon). Montreal native, Vallee has proven able to find heroes the most unlikely of places and with its redemptive theme and what appears to be a career best turn from Witherspoon, this could be one of the underdog bets come awards time!

Mr Turner (Dir: Mike Leigh)

Mike Leigh always to come up trumps when it comes to awards season and he has now succeeded in grabbing the publics attention once more with Mr Turner. Based on the life of celebrated British painter JMW Turner (Timothy Spall), whose eccentric methods helped change the way we view art forever, Leigh seems to have found a story in which construct a compelling and emotionally charged story. With a Best Actor winning turn at Cannes from Timothy Spall, this piece has rightfully earned it's Special Presentation Gala slot at TIFF!