Movie Review: "Maleficent"

I know, I know, I am super late watching "Maleficent." But, truth be told, I wasn't that keen on seeing it. I am not a big fan of Angelina Jolie and I never have been. I've liked a few of her movies, mainly "Salt," Wanted," and "Taking Lives." I also had no clue what "Maleficent" was or about. So, when it came out, I overlooked it. I heard so many great reviews of it that I decided I had to see it.I also read up on the movie. "Maleficent" is actually a different point of view about "Sleeping Beauty." I never heard of the greatest villain knows as Maleficent. I was more than intrigued by this movie. I saw that it would be available via On Demand on November 4th. I spent some time Saturday afternoon watching it. My conclusion is that it is amazing!! I loved it. Angelina was perfect as the villain. Elle Fanning was charming as the princess. Great movie all around. 

I love the cinematography and the acting. It was, to me, A Disney movie reimagined for adults. Most of the movie is really dark in lighting on purpose. I do not see this as a movie for children. I felt so bad for Maleficent during most of this movie. I am always conflicted when I feel for the villain in a movie. But, it just goes to show that the bad guys aren't always inherently bad. And, that we all possess the ability to be good as well as bad. My favorite part of the movie were the final scenes. I enjoyed the fact that the movie did not end the way I thought it would. I love the unexpected when it comes to movies. If you have not seen this movie, I suggest you check it out. It's that good. Get into it: "Maleficent" starring Angelina Jolie and Elle Fanning. 

Complete Fail!!

I already knew that the Lifetime "biopic" "Aaliyah the Princess of R&B" was going to be trash. I knew it when her family objected. I knew it when the original actress Zendaya Coleman dropped out. And, I especially knew it when Wendy Williams was brought in as a producer.  I knew it when Aaliyah's music wasn't allowed to be used. I actually had no intention of watching it. But, I was with friends who insisted on watching the travesty. So, I joined in. Lo and behold, it was even worse than I imagined. It was awful. There wasn't one redeeming quality about the biopic. I wish I could say something nice about it. But there isn't anything to say. The casting was like picking the most random people. The actors hired to play Missy Elliott, R. Kelly, Timbaland, Dame Dash looked nothing like the real people. The also did not speak or act like them. Aside from skin tone, Alexandra Shipp had nothing in common with Aaliyah either. She did not speak, dance, sing, or walk like Aaliyah. The only thing she had sorta right was the hair and it wasn't Aaliyah-esque. This was just a mess from beginning to end. Everyone involved should be ashamed. 

The casting was terrible as was the acting. But, what was the absolute worst was the fact that Lifetime, the producers, and the writers spent an hour of a two hour movie romanticizing the "relationship" between R. Kelly and Aaliyah. I am still disgusted by it. Let us not forget that Aaliyah was a child (15) when she was working with R. Kelly. Everything about that situation was the work of a pedophile.  Everything from the naming of her debut cd "Age Ain't Nuttin But A Number" to him being in the background of the cd cover just feels gross in hindsight. At the time, none of us really knew what was going on. Someone tweeting from the Lifetime Twitter account found nothing wrong with it. The ridiculous tweets are below. The movie was universally panned via Twitter. No one on my timeline liked it. The reviews were just as bad.  No one liked it. The ratings were high because we all watched it. But, reading the tweets about the #AaliyahMovie has all the shade you can handle. Also, #LifetimeBeLike & #LifetimeBiopic  are golden trending topics this weekend. If you did not see it, do yourself a favor and avoid it. I'm still mad I watched. This biopic was a complete and total fail.

Not My Moses

Just saw a trailer for ”Exodus Gods and Kings” and got angry again. I totally forgot about this farce of a movie. A movie set in biblical times in Africa with no people of color in prominent roles. What is Hollywood's obsession with white washing all of history? This movie is set in Egypt. Egypt is a country on the continent of Africa. The bones of the first man and woman were found in Africa. Jesus has never, will never be a blond haired, blue eyed white man to me. It's just not possible. Even if you aren't a big believer in religion or the Bible, facts are always facts. I also find it funny that white people want to claim all Biblical people as their own. But, if you tell them that the devil is white, they get upset. No, you cannot pick and choose which ones work for you. There is no way on God's green Earth that I would pay money to sit through this revisionist version of the Bible. It took me almost a decade to watch "The Passion of the Christ" for some of these same reasons. I cannot get behind a tale that people in Egypt are a)not African and b)not Black. Mainly because both of those things are dead wrong. 

There has been a huge push back about this movie via social media. Through the hashtags #BoycottExodusMovie and #NotMyMoses (this was started by Kid Fury of "The Read" which is a great podcast). There is also this Twitter account Boycott Exodus. There is even a Facebook page entitled "Boycott Ridley Scott's Exodus." I hit the like button swiftly. I just do not get Hollywood's obsession with whitewashing everything. They are try to erase our history in front of our faces. In what world are Ramses and Moses white men??? And, Cleopatra is a white woman? No ma’am, no sir. This does not compute, baby. It’s disgusting and unbelievable. Do. Not. Want. This phenomenon of erasing Black people from prominent historical stories is just sad. It's as if the people who have caused the most harm want to pretty up their pasts. It's the exact same thing that is currently happening in schools with the great literary works. Editing books like "Huck Finn" to eliminate the word "nigger" is whitewashing how cruel and sick white people have been historically. Sorry, Satan, but you cannot hide all the dirt that your ancestors have done. Listen, Hollywood, stop the madness. Black people want to see people who look like us on the big screen as well. We want our stories told correctly. One can eliminate an entire race of people who are so important to the overall development of a society. Until that day, I will be sitting any movie out that looks to celebrate whiteness will eliminating any sign of my Blackness. So, on December 12th, do yourself a favor, Boycott "Exodus of Gods and Kings" and we can show Hollywood more than we can tell them. 

Movie Review: "Gone Girl"

The new movie "Gone Girl" has been out for a few weeks now. I've wanted to see it since the trailers premiered. Finally, after a failed attempt when the film reel was broken, I got to see what all the hype was about. "Gone Girl" was an incredibly diabolical film. the acting was superb. I knew that Ben Affleck would kill it because that is what he does. I'm a fan. But, I was pleasantly surprised by the great job done by Tyler Perry. When he was on the screen, I was transfixed with him and I never once saw Madea which is a great feat. The breakout star is no doubt the actress who portrays Amy Dunne, Ms. Rosamund Pike. She was, hands down, the best person in the whole film. It also stars Neil Diamond Patrick and Swoosie Kurtz. The movie is based on the book by the same name by Gillian Flynn. I am currently reading the book because I was so impressed by the film. 

The premise of the movie is quite simple: missing wife leads to husband being the main suspect. But, nothing in this movie is what it seems. On the morning of Nick and Amy's 5th wedding anniversary, Amy disappears. What ensues after this discovery is a winding trail down the proverbial rabbit hole. I loved all of the twists and turns that this movie took. I never knew what exactly was real or fiction or what was actually going on. But, I couldn't take my eyes off the screen. It is not a short movie at 2 hours and 25 minutes but I didn't even realize that much time had passed. The movie was that good. I will definitely see it again and buy it when it comes out on dvd. I recommend anyone who likes a good suspense or murder mystery movie to see this. Get into "Gone Girl."

"Love is the world's infinite mutability; lies, hatred, murder, even are all knit up in it; it is the inevitable blossoming of its opposites, a magnificent rose smelling faintly of blood." -- Tony Kushner, "The Illusion"

Movie Review: "Addicted"

Zane's "Addicted" has been one of my favorite guilty pleasures for years. It's the first book by her that I read. It made me an instant fan. So, the moment I heard that it was being made into a film, I was happy. I knew that I would have to see it. "Addicted" opened on Friday, October 19th. I was front and center early Saturday morning to see it. It stars Sharon Leal, Boris Kodjoe, William Levy, Tyson Beckford and Tasha Smith. All play central characters in this movie. Billie Woodruff is the director. I've always loved his work. From the opening scene to the last frame, I was enthralled. I really enjoyed the plot, the actors and the movie overall.

The actors were all attractive and kept my eyes glues to the screen. The plot varies in many places from the book. As a reader, I always have to temper my expectations when it comes to films based on books. I knew there was no way to get all the info into a movie. But, I think they skipped some crucial things. In the movie, Zoe isn't as loose as she is in the book. Quinton isn't as crazy or violent in the movie as he is in the book. The actions of a lot of the characters are very scaled back in the movie. I think that was a misstep. The sex scenes are beautifully done and shot really well. None of them are crass are tacky. I loved seeing Black people on the big screen being sexy and sensual and erotic. For that alone, the movie is a win to me. I enjoyed it. I would love to see a few of Zane's other books make it to the big screen as well, especially "Nervous." I recommend this movie as a must see. Get into it!

Movie Review: "Left Behind"

I was introduced to the "Left Behind" book series a few years ago. I loved it from the opening line of the first book. It is a series based on the Bible. The series is 13 books that weaves a cautionary tale of what happens when the Rapture occurs and the years following. I cannot remember exactly how long it took me to complete the books but I was totally engrossed in them. I loved the characters. I loved the Biblical references. But, what I loved the most was the two authors ability to paint a vibrant picture via words for me. Those are my favorite kind of writers. So, naturally, when I heard the first book was being made into a bug budget film, I was excited. I watched the Kirk Cameron trilogy based on the series on Netflix to get ready. I liked them a lot.

Fast forward to opening weekend for "Left Behind," I went to see it on Sunday morning. I was ready. I reread the first book and rewatched the movies to prepare. I had high hopes and big expectations. I thought it would be amazing. I. Was. So. Wrong. To say I was disappointed would be an understatement. The acting was ok. The plot was awful. The first "Left Behind" book was this descriptive, ever moving work of art. It was reduced to nothingness on the big screen. The writers and producers cut almost all of the God/Biblical references out which is so out. How can you have a movie about the Rapture and dumb down the religious talk? That makes no sense. My other big issue with this movie is that it mostly takes place on the plane which isn't no where near what happened in the book. The potential to make a great movie was right there in front of the producers. They  jumped right over it to campy and silly. It was awful to me. It's been almost a week since I saw it and I STILL want my money back. I'll stick to the books for now or to Netflix for the first trilogy. I do not recommend this movie to you if you've read the books and are a fan. Save your coins. See something else. Heed my warning, folks. The Nicholas Cage-led "Left Behind" isn't the religious experience it should have been. 

Movie Review: "No Good Deed"

If you guys do not know, I am an Idris Elba fan from way back to the first episode of "The Wire." So, when I heard he was doing a Will Packer movie with Taraji P. Henson, I was all in. Then, about a year later, the trailers dropped. Idris plays Colin, a charismatic, good looking, stone cold killer. He is the definition of a bad guy here. The premise of the movie is that Elba is a escaped convicted killer who's specialty is "violence against women." Henson plays stay at home mom of 2 Terry. Their paths inadvertently cross and drama ensues. 

I loved seeing Elba in a role where it was easy to hate him. I loved seeing Henson in a role that on the surface appears like a docile, helpless one. But, that would be totally wrong. Henson is anything but helpless or docile. In the beginning of the movie, there is apparent sexual tension between the two. There is light flirting between a neglected housewife and a charming stranger. Things take a turn for the worse quickly. It was suspenseful, witty, well written and beautifully shot. This is a movie I will be watching again. I enjoyed it that much. You guys should go check it out. Get into it: "No Good Deed." 

Get Into It: "Get On Up"

The James Brown biopic "Get On Up" premiered last Friday. I went to see it on Sunday morning. Going into it, I did not know a whole lot about Brown's history. I knew his music well though. So, for me, the movie was a history lesson. And, I thoroughly enjoy history. The movie is a good look into the beginnings of James Brown and all the things he eventually became. I did not know that he was he first Black person to own his own private plane. I also did not know that Mick Jagger, who is a producer of this movie, was a fan of turned friend to Mr. Brown. I loved that it showed how differently Brown saw and felt music. This goes to show how his mind created the best music. He has been sampled by almost every artist in every genre of music. He was simply amazing. That's what this movie showed me. 

Can we just talk about Jill Scott in this black lace dress above?!? She was awesome in the movie. I now need a black lace dress in my closet because it was everything.  The movie is good. I really enjoyed it. My only gripe with the movie is "James Brown" talking to the camera. I hate that. Actors, do not break the 4th wall. I despised it during the first season of "Sex and the City" when Carrie did it as well as the first season of "Girlfriends" when Joan did it. Hate it. Also, the fact that James referred to himself in 3rd person all the time. In my mind, only unstable, narcissistic people do that. It freaks me out. Other than that, the movie was a win. The casting and acting were both A1. I recommend this film to anyone who has any interest in the story of James Brown. Get Into It: "Get On Up."

Movie Review: "Hercules"

I am a Greek Mythology enthusiast. Have been since I was ten years old. This is how I ended up at the movie theater today to catch Dwayne Johnson's (aka The Rock) new movie "Hercules." I did not know what to expect because I had not seen one trailer for this movie. But, I am a fan of The Rock so I was open to it. I am so glad I decided to go catch it. It was a pretty good movie. There was action and wars and even some comedy. The comedy was unexpected but appreciated. The movie was set in Greece and I loved the country side shots in the movie. One of my favorite character s in this movie a woman warrior by the name of Atalanta. She is amazing with a bow and arrow. The movie just opened Friday and the theater was packed today. 

What I really enjoyed about the movie was that they played up the rumors of Hercules birth a lot. He says that he never knew his father. It is also insinuated that he isn't really a demigod (half god/half mortal). There is talk of the "gods," and Hera and the like but it's really just all background for the plot of the movie: war. Hercules is a mercenary and leads an army through a war. I love that the movie was playful in parts where the entire audience collectively laughed out loud. Johnson is a very believable Hercules and he carries the movie. All of the characters are well written and acted. I enjoyed everything about it. I will def purchase this when it comes out on dvd. Go ahead and indulge in a little Greek Mythology  via the "Hercules" movie. 

Movie Review: "Think Like A Man Too" & "Transformers: Age of Extinction"

There is a new theater that just opened not far from my house. I received some free passes as well as 2 for 1 passes. This means my movie watching days are a go. For the last two weekends, I've been at the Grand Theater to see two new movies. First up was "Think Like A Man Too." I loved the first one. The cast was incredible and had great chemistry. This was also the case in the sequel. It's not very often that a sequel is better than the original. This is one of those very unique cases. I loved TLAMT more than the original. I laughed the entire time. Kevin Hart was ridiculous as usual. I loved the plot of the movie. It is a must see in my opinion. I cannot wait to see it again. Great romantic comedy .

The second movie was "Transformers: Age of Extinction." Now, let me preface this by saying that I am a super fan of the previous films. Loved all of them. I wasn't too happy when I learned that the the series was being rebooted. No Shia, no silly parents, no Tyrese. I do like Mark Wahlberg so I was open to it. The movie was good but not great. The plot was interesting. The action scenes were amazing. The actress who plays Mark's daughter is gorgeous but her acting skills left much to be desired. I was just expecting more from the movie. I mean Michael Bay and Steven Spielberg were involved in it. Something was just off with it. I don't know exactly what it was though. I'm glad that I saw it though. Loved the Autobots as usual. Good movie. I think a person who isn't a diehard fan of the first three would love it more. Either way, I would recommend both movies to all. Get into these new releases. Happy movie watching!!

Because it's Tuesday...

• New music makes me happy. If you are looking for something new and different, check out SZA's "Z" EP. I love it. Also, random but she is gorgeous. Her hair and those freckles are everything. I gave Kelis' "Food" project a listen. I wasn't that impressed with it. 
  
  
  
  
• I finally saw "Captain America The Winter Soldier" a few weekends ago. And,  loved it!!! I am a huge fan of the Marvel Superheroes movies. Love them all. I was particularly interested in this one because of Anthony Mackie as Sam Hill aka "The Falcon." Great movie. 

• I also read Chimamanda Adichie's "Americanah." It was a wonderful book. I loved the storyline and the two main characters. I loved the writing style of Adichie. She is awesome. It was a love story but there were so many other layers. It was interesting to read about the experience of a Non-American Black's experience in America. Love transcends all groups and labels. Adichie's book exemplifies this. I would suggest this book to everyone. Great read. 

                                                

• Last night's season premiere of the final season of "The Boondocks" was a tad disappointing for me. I am a fan. I have been since it was a comic strip. The absence of Aaron McGruder was felt heavily. The episode was entitled "Pretty Boy Flizzy" and it is Chris Brown inspired. The episode seemed dated and lame. Also, it wasn't even as good as the Usher/A Pimp Named Slickback episode of season 2. There wasn't many scenes with Huey, Riley or Granddad. I will watch another episode but I am sad. I feel like the show is going to go out without a bang. No McGruder snarky sarcasm and quick wit makes for a slower paced show.            
  
• Saw a pic on FB and felt like I needed to see it. Also, felt like I should pass it on. Get into it and your goals for this year. 
  
• I am severely annoyed and I really need to shake this feeling. I'm just not really sure how to do so. Also, I have the overwhelming feeling that a certain conversation is going to happen sooner than later. And, I won't like the content. I think I have to start mentally preparing myself for the fuckery because it is coming. 
                                           
• So, to shake all of this off, I am gonna soak in a hot bubble bath, drink a glass or three of wine and turn the music up loud. That will change my mood. Happy Tuesday again.