My ranking of the Best Picture Oscar contenders of 2018:
1. Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
2. The Shape of Water *
3. Get Out
4. Phantom Thread
5. Lady Bird
6. Dunkirk
7. Call Me By Your Name
8. The Post
9. Darkest Hour
*Actual Winner
Black Panther
BLACK PANTHER
2018 | Dir. Ryan Coogler | 134 Minutes
"You are a good man with a good heart, and it's hard for a good man to be a king."
Still grieving over the death of his father, T'Challa ascends to the throne of Wakanda, a technologically-advanced and resource-rich African nation hidden from the rest of the world. On a mission to bring an enemy of his country to justice, T'Challa discovers a family secret kept by his father in the form of an adversary who intends to usurp T'Challa's birthright and conquer the world using Wakanda's high-tech weaponry. T'Challa begins to consider the impact of his actions as a king, and the role of his nation, on the world stage.
Black Panther is a visually-stunning action-packed spectacle that encourages serious discussions about what it means to be a leader, and about the proper amount of knowledge and resources a nation should share with the world. As a distinct departure from other heroes of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, T'Challa's struggles not with his ego or personal failing, but with making the best decisions as a ruler. While T'Challa gradually shifts away from Wakanda's historically isolationist approach to foreign affairs, in direct contrast his rival Erik Stevens is overeager to reveal the might of Wakanda to the world. Writer/Director Ryan Coogler does not provide easy answers, but he clearly rejects the violent path chosen by those like Stevens.
The film showcases exceptionally imaginative special effects to present Wakanda's technological wonders, particularly in the grand sweeping aerial shots of the nation's Afrofuturistic cityscape, when the scientific genius Shuri reveals the automated Vibranium mining system to an astounded Agent Ross, and when all of T'Challa's gadgets are put to use during an intense car chase through the streets of Busan. The breathtaking fight choreography featured in every thrilling action sequence is also a true highlight of the picture. T'Challa's multiple ritual combat scenes atop a waterfall, a fight sequence in an underground casino in Busan, and the epic climactic ground battle between Wakandan tribes are absolutely exhilarating.
Leading an incredible cast of predominantly black actors, Chadwick Boseman is, in a word, iconic as T'Challa. Boseman exudes T'Challa's strength, patience, and wisdom as a king, and also manages to be gentle and charming when joking with his sister or trying to convince the woman he loves to stay by his side, having the opportunity to show off more of his range as a performer than in his first appearance as T'Challa in Captain America: Civil War. Michael B. Jordan takes complete ownership over all of his scenes as antagonist Erik "Killmonger" Stevens, a complicated villain with motivations that may be justified despite his misguided approach. Lupita Nyong'o is radiant as Wakandan spy Nakia, the apple of T'Challa's eye. As Shuri, Letitia Wright is a real joy, perfectly fitting the role of playful rebellious sister, brilliant chief scientist, and capable warrior. The most impressive action star in the cast may be Danai Gurira in the role of Okoye, the fierce general of Wakanda's all-female royal guard the Dora Milaje. The film also features Daniel Kaluuya as T'Challa's best friend and Border Tribe leader W'Kabi, Winston Duke as Mountain Tribe leader M'Baku and proud foil to T'Challa, Angela Bassett as the Queen Mother Ramonda, Forest Whitaker as mystic wise man Zuri, and Sterling K. Brown as king T'Chaka's wayward brother N'Jobu.
Previously appearing in Avengers: Age of Ultron, Andy Serkis returns as the despicable illegal arms dealer Ulysses Klaue, dialing up Klaue's over-the-top personality to the very limit. Martin Freeman reprises his role from Captain America: Civil War as the CIA Agent Everett K. Ross, essentially the token white supporting player of the film with a much greater part to play than in his previous appearance. Also returning from Captain America: Civil War are Florence Kasumba as Dora Milaje warrior Ayo, and John Kani as King T'Chaka.
Unlike any previous Marvel Studios film to date, Black Panther tells an inspiring story about the challenges of being a good leader while delivering on the promise of a solid action film that goes well beyond simply following the familiar beats of a standard comic book movie. The film firmly establishes T'Challa as one of the most heroic characters depicted in cinema, and the narrative provides a bounty of amazing role models particularly for children of color. Wakanda Forever!
MID-CREDITS STINGER
T'Challa reveals his plans to share Wakanda's knowledge and resources with the rest of the world to the United Nations.
POST-CREDITS STINGER
A trio of Wakandan children wake a man known as the "White Wolf." The man is revealed to be Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), living in peace and undergoing treatment from Shuri to deprogram his Hydra brainwashing.
STAN LEE CAMEO
Stan the Man is a high roller at the underground casino in Busan.
FRAGMENTS
- Director Ryan Coogler has collaborated with actor Michael B. Jordan on all of his films so far including Fruitvale Station, Creed, and this film
- Director Ryan Coogler has also collaborated with composer Ludwig Göransson on all of his films so far including Fruitvale Station, Creed, and this film
- Sterling K. Brown and Winston Duke were featured in recurring roles on the television series Person of Interest
- Martin Freeman and Andy Serkis previously appeared together in Peter Jackson's The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey as Bilbo Baggins and the creature Gollum
SUPPLEMENTAL STUFF
- Video: Kendrick Lamar and SZA "All The Stars"
- Video: The Weeknd and Kendrick Lamar "Pray For Me"
- Video: Ludwig Göransson featuring Baaba Maal "Wakanda"
2018 | Dir. Ryan Coogler | 134 Minutes
"You are a good man with a good heart, and it's hard for a good man to be a king."
Still grieving over the death of his father, T'Challa ascends to the throne of Wakanda, a technologically-advanced and resource-rich African nation hidden from the rest of the world. On a mission to bring an enemy of his country to justice, T'Challa discovers a family secret kept by his father in the form of an adversary who intends to usurp T'Challa's birthright and conquer the world using Wakanda's high-tech weaponry. T'Challa begins to consider the impact of his actions as a king, and the role of his nation, on the world stage.
Black Panther is a visually-stunning action-packed spectacle that encourages serious discussions about what it means to be a leader, and about the proper amount of knowledge and resources a nation should share with the world. As a distinct departure from other heroes of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, T'Challa's struggles not with his ego or personal failing, but with making the best decisions as a ruler. While T'Challa gradually shifts away from Wakanda's historically isolationist approach to foreign affairs, in direct contrast his rival Erik Stevens is overeager to reveal the might of Wakanda to the world. Writer/Director Ryan Coogler does not provide easy answers, but he clearly rejects the violent path chosen by those like Stevens.
The film showcases exceptionally imaginative special effects to present Wakanda's technological wonders, particularly in the grand sweeping aerial shots of the nation's Afrofuturistic cityscape, when the scientific genius Shuri reveals the automated Vibranium mining system to an astounded Agent Ross, and when all of T'Challa's gadgets are put to use during an intense car chase through the streets of Busan. The breathtaking fight choreography featured in every thrilling action sequence is also a true highlight of the picture. T'Challa's multiple ritual combat scenes atop a waterfall, a fight sequence in an underground casino in Busan, and the epic climactic ground battle between Wakandan tribes are absolutely exhilarating.
Leading an incredible cast of predominantly black actors, Chadwick Boseman is, in a word, iconic as T'Challa. Boseman exudes T'Challa's strength, patience, and wisdom as a king, and also manages to be gentle and charming when joking with his sister or trying to convince the woman he loves to stay by his side, having the opportunity to show off more of his range as a performer than in his first appearance as T'Challa in Captain America: Civil War. Michael B. Jordan takes complete ownership over all of his scenes as antagonist Erik "Killmonger" Stevens, a complicated villain with motivations that may be justified despite his misguided approach. Lupita Nyong'o is radiant as Wakandan spy Nakia, the apple of T'Challa's eye. As Shuri, Letitia Wright is a real joy, perfectly fitting the role of playful rebellious sister, brilliant chief scientist, and capable warrior. The most impressive action star in the cast may be Danai Gurira in the role of Okoye, the fierce general of Wakanda's all-female royal guard the Dora Milaje. The film also features Daniel Kaluuya as T'Challa's best friend and Border Tribe leader W'Kabi, Winston Duke as Mountain Tribe leader M'Baku and proud foil to T'Challa, Angela Bassett as the Queen Mother Ramonda, Forest Whitaker as mystic wise man Zuri, and Sterling K. Brown as king T'Chaka's wayward brother N'Jobu.
Previously appearing in Avengers: Age of Ultron, Andy Serkis returns as the despicable illegal arms dealer Ulysses Klaue, dialing up Klaue's over-the-top personality to the very limit. Martin Freeman reprises his role from Captain America: Civil War as the CIA Agent Everett K. Ross, essentially the token white supporting player of the film with a much greater part to play than in his previous appearance. Also returning from Captain America: Civil War are Florence Kasumba as Dora Milaje warrior Ayo, and John Kani as King T'Chaka.
Unlike any previous Marvel Studios film to date, Black Panther tells an inspiring story about the challenges of being a good leader while delivering on the promise of a solid action film that goes well beyond simply following the familiar beats of a standard comic book movie. The film firmly establishes T'Challa as one of the most heroic characters depicted in cinema, and the narrative provides a bounty of amazing role models particularly for children of color. Wakanda Forever!
MID-CREDITS STINGER
T'Challa reveals his plans to share Wakanda's knowledge and resources with the rest of the world to the United Nations.
POST-CREDITS STINGER
A trio of Wakandan children wake a man known as the "White Wolf." The man is revealed to be Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), living in peace and undergoing treatment from Shuri to deprogram his Hydra brainwashing.
STAN LEE CAMEO
Stan the Man is a high roller at the underground casino in Busan.
FRAGMENTS
- Director Ryan Coogler has collaborated with actor Michael B. Jordan on all of his films so far including Fruitvale Station, Creed, and this film
- Director Ryan Coogler has also collaborated with composer Ludwig Göransson on all of his films so far including Fruitvale Station, Creed, and this film
- Sterling K. Brown and Winston Duke were featured in recurring roles on the television series Person of Interest
- Martin Freeman and Andy Serkis previously appeared together in Peter Jackson's The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey as Bilbo Baggins and the creature Gollum
SUPPLEMENTAL STUFF
- Video: Kendrick Lamar and SZA "All The Stars"
- Video: The Weeknd and Kendrick Lamar "Pray For Me"
- Video: Ludwig Göransson featuring Baaba Maal "Wakanda"
Coco
COCO
2017 | Dir. Lee Unkrich | 109 Minutes
"Remember me, though I have to say goodbye. Remember me, don't let it make you cry. For even if I'm far away, I hold you in my heart. I sing a secret song to you each night we are apart."
A young boy named Miguel dreams of becoming a musician despite his family's strong objections. On Día de Muertos, Miguel finds himself in the Land of the Dead and one of his ancestors must give him their blessing before sunrise in order for Miguel to return home. However, his great-great-grandmother's long-standing detestation of music poses a significant obstacle for Miguel, unwilling to bless him unless he gives up his dream. On the run with the help of a desperate soul named Hector, Miguel races against time in search of his long lost great-great-grandfather who generations ago abandoned his family to be a famous musician.
Initially inspired by Día de Muertos folk art, director Lee Unkrich, assisted by a full team of cultural consultants, strived to authentically present Mexican traditions in Coco. The resulting film is brimming with excellent music, dazzling visuals, and concepts rooted in traditional Mexican beliefs presented in truly clever ways. Above all, a strong emotional through-line about the importance of family and remembrance runs through the picture.
Visually, Coco is simply mesmerizing, marking another high watermark in Pixar's extensive history of technical achievements. Stand-out set pieces include the bridge between worlds made of flower petals leading to the massive vibrant city of the Land of the Dead, the elaborate party atop Ernesto de la Cruz's tower, and the stadium concert setting for the film's finale. Absolutely every facet of the film is thoughtfully designed and well-rendered from the eye-catching neon alebrije spirit animals to subtle touches such as Miguel's increasingly translucent skin, marking the progression of his curse, slowly transforming him into a skeleton.
Young Anthony Gonzalez carries the emotional core of the film with humor and genuine energy, natural in his portrayal of the Miguel's headstrong and vulnerable qualities. With expert comedic timing, Gael García Bernal is loveable as the roguish Hector, sharing great chemistry with Anthony Gonzalez's Miguel. Playing Miguel's stubborn and strong-willed great-great-grandmother Mamá Imelda, Alanna Ubach delivers a spirited performance. As music legend Ernesto de la Cruz, Benjamin Bratt is a perfect fit, believably charismatic and charming, and smoothly taking a sinister turn into the film's final act. Natalia Cordova-Buckley is a hilarious scene-stealer, providing the voice for legendary Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, appearing briefly in the film as a vital supporting character.
Coco is a unique and uplifting experience. At its center, the picture examines the compromises a person may make to chase their dreams at the risk of forgetting the importance of family, a deep concept wrapped in an artful and authentic presentation of Mexican culture. Ultimately, Coco is among Pixar's greatest achievements, delivering what the groundbreaking animation studio does best: an emotionally moving cinematic experience with jaw-dropping visuals and plenty of heart.
JOHN RATZENBERGER AS...
- Juan Ortodoncia
A113
- Miguel and his ancestors visit a Bureau of Family Grievances Corrections Officer voiced by comedian Cheech Marin in office A113
PIXAR INTERCONNECTIVITY
- A Pizza Planet delivery truck drives by Miguel's window at the start of the film
- In the Santa Cecilia marketplace, Marlin, Dory, Nemo, and Destiny from Finding Nemo and Finding Dory, and Remy from Ratatouille appear as alebrije figurines, as well as stuffed dolls of Woody and Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story
- A figurine of Nemo from Finding Nemo sits on the ofrenda in Miguel's home
- A poster for The Incredibles (in skeletal form) appears in the Land of the Dead
FRAGMENTS
- Coco was released in Mexico on October 27, 2017 (nearly four full weeks before the film was released in North America), and became the highest-grossing movie in Mexican box office history
- Currently, select theaters in the US are screening the Spanish-language version of the picture
SUPPLEMENTAL STUFF
- Video: Dante's Lunch - A Short Tail
MCU CONNECTIONS
- Benjamin Bratt (Jonathan Pangborn in Doctor Strange)
2017 | Dir. Lee Unkrich | 109 Minutes
"Remember me, though I have to say goodbye. Remember me, don't let it make you cry. For even if I'm far away, I hold you in my heart. I sing a secret song to you each night we are apart."
A young boy named Miguel dreams of becoming a musician despite his family's strong objections. On Día de Muertos, Miguel finds himself in the Land of the Dead and one of his ancestors must give him their blessing before sunrise in order for Miguel to return home. However, his great-great-grandmother's long-standing detestation of music poses a significant obstacle for Miguel, unwilling to bless him unless he gives up his dream. On the run with the help of a desperate soul named Hector, Miguel races against time in search of his long lost great-great-grandfather who generations ago abandoned his family to be a famous musician.
Initially inspired by Día de Muertos folk art, director Lee Unkrich, assisted by a full team of cultural consultants, strived to authentically present Mexican traditions in Coco. The resulting film is brimming with excellent music, dazzling visuals, and concepts rooted in traditional Mexican beliefs presented in truly clever ways. Above all, a strong emotional through-line about the importance of family and remembrance runs through the picture.
Visually, Coco is simply mesmerizing, marking another high watermark in Pixar's extensive history of technical achievements. Stand-out set pieces include the bridge between worlds made of flower petals leading to the massive vibrant city of the Land of the Dead, the elaborate party atop Ernesto de la Cruz's tower, and the stadium concert setting for the film's finale. Absolutely every facet of the film is thoughtfully designed and well-rendered from the eye-catching neon alebrije spirit animals to subtle touches such as Miguel's increasingly translucent skin, marking the progression of his curse, slowly transforming him into a skeleton.
Young Anthony Gonzalez carries the emotional core of the film with humor and genuine energy, natural in his portrayal of the Miguel's headstrong and vulnerable qualities. With expert comedic timing, Gael García Bernal is loveable as the roguish Hector, sharing great chemistry with Anthony Gonzalez's Miguel. Playing Miguel's stubborn and strong-willed great-great-grandmother Mamá Imelda, Alanna Ubach delivers a spirited performance. As music legend Ernesto de la Cruz, Benjamin Bratt is a perfect fit, believably charismatic and charming, and smoothly taking a sinister turn into the film's final act. Natalia Cordova-Buckley is a hilarious scene-stealer, providing the voice for legendary Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, appearing briefly in the film as a vital supporting character.
Coco is a unique and uplifting experience. At its center, the picture examines the compromises a person may make to chase their dreams at the risk of forgetting the importance of family, a deep concept wrapped in an artful and authentic presentation of Mexican culture. Ultimately, Coco is among Pixar's greatest achievements, delivering what the groundbreaking animation studio does best: an emotionally moving cinematic experience with jaw-dropping visuals and plenty of heart.
JOHN RATZENBERGER AS...
- Juan Ortodoncia
A113
- Miguel and his ancestors visit a Bureau of Family Grievances Corrections Officer voiced by comedian Cheech Marin in office A113
PIXAR INTERCONNECTIVITY
- A Pizza Planet delivery truck drives by Miguel's window at the start of the film
- In the Santa Cecilia marketplace, Marlin, Dory, Nemo, and Destiny from Finding Nemo and Finding Dory, and Remy from Ratatouille appear as alebrije figurines, as well as stuffed dolls of Woody and Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story
- A figurine of Nemo from Finding Nemo sits on the ofrenda in Miguel's home
FRAGMENTS
- Coco was released in Mexico on October 27, 2017 (nearly four full weeks before the film was released in North America), and became the highest-grossing movie in Mexican box office history
- Currently, select theaters in the US are screening the Spanish-language version of the picture
SUPPLEMENTAL STUFF
- Video: Dante's Lunch - A Short Tail
MCU CONNECTIONS
- Benjamin Bratt (Jonathan Pangborn in Doctor Strange)
Thor: Ragnarok
THOR: RAGNAROK
2017 | Dir. Taika Waititi | 130 Minutes
"I run towards my problems, not away from them, because that's what heroes do."
While fighting to prevent his prophetic visions of Asgard's destruction from coming to fruition, Thor is stranded on a hostile alien planet after a deadly encounter with Hela the unstoppable Goddess of Death. The displaced prince is unexpectedly forced to battle a "friend from work" for the entertainment of a madman. Meanwhile, Hela terrorizes the citizens of Asgard and sets her sights on conquering the cosmos. Thor quickly assembles an unlikely team consisting of allies new and old to return to Asgard, save his people, and defeat the evil goddess.
Influenced by the aesthetics of 70's and 80's sci-fi fantasy films, New Zealand comedy director Taika Waititi imbues the Thor's third cinematic solo adventure with colorful Jack Kirby-esque production design and a great abundance of comedy. Between its brilliantly choreographed kinetic action sequences is a non-stop barrage of clever visual gags and hilarious dialogue - eighty percent of which was allegedly ad-libbed. The feature's funniest jokes chiefly feature unexpected callbacks to The Avengers, Thor: The Dark World, and Avengers: Age of Ultron. Thor: Ragnarok even manages tells a more affecting emotional story than the second film of the series, showing how much Thor has grown in wisdom and selflessness as a hero and a ruler through his clever and valiant actions.
The picture showcases some of the best set pieces of the Marvel Cinematic Universe to date, from the opening skirmish pitting Thor against the flaming demon Surtur and his minions - in which the virtual camera follows Mjolnir as it leaves Thor's hand smashing through enemies - to the lightning-charged climactic battle between the "Revengers" and Hela's undead legion (both sequences rousingly featuring Led Zeppelin's "Immigrant Song"). The gladiatorial match between Thor and the Hulk encapsulates the best qualities of Marvel Studios productions: inspired action, natural comedy and, above all, excellent character-driven storytelling made possible through years of commitment to continuity.
In his fifth appearance as the titular God of Thunder, Chris Hemsworth has never been funnier as Waititi's direction fully utilizes his impeccable comedic timing. As Thor's reluctant counterpart in this unconventional buddy comedy, Mark Ruffalo explores new facets of his recurring dual role playing the Hulk and Bruce Banner, alternating between the abrasively blunt green giant and the hapless scientist hilariously in-over-his-head. Though Tom Hiddleston doesn't bring much new to table reprising the role of the trickster Loki. As always, Hiddleston's best scenes are shared with Hemsworth's Thor, their chemistry as potent as ever. Idris Elba returns as the all-seeing Heimdall once again, finally a featured player in several action sequences. Reprising the role of Odin, Anthony Hopkins' brief appearance is more subdued than somber, though he appears to be genuinely enjoying himself as the Loki-disguised Odin early in the narrative. The film also features brief appearances from Marvel Studios regulars Ray Stevenson, Zachary Levi, Tadanobu Asano, and Benedict Cumberbatch reprising their respective roles as Volstagg, Fandral, Hogun, and Stephen Strange.
Taking complete ownership of the picture whenever she appears on screen, Cate Blanchett's delightfully sinister performance elevates Hela to the very top tier of Marvel Cinematic Universe villains. Tessa Thompson is believably fierce and fair as a drunken wayward Valkyrie. Jeff Goldblum is amusingly weird as the Grandmaster. The cast also features character actor Karl Urban as dimwitted the Asgardian Skurge with a serviceable character arc, frequent Waititi collaborator Rachel House as the Grandmaster's wary enforcer Topaz, Clancy Brown lends his voice to Surtur, and Waititi also offers his voice to the astoundingly soft-spoken stone gladiator Korg.
Packed with charm, humor, and spectacle, Thor: Ragnarok is undisputedly the best film of the Thor series. With radiant panache, the picture decisively sheds elements of the series that have become extraneous while paving the way towards an exciting new direction. Waititi's established comedic talent serves the production well, taking the cosmic and innately humorous qualities of the Marvel Studios' massive shared universe, and Thor's heroic journey, to new heights.
MID-CREDITS STINGER
Heading towards Earth on their spaceship, Thor reassures Loki that things will work out fine as they enter the shadow of a massive warship.
POST-CREDITS STINGER
On Sakaar, The Grandmaster stumbles off his craft and congratulates his former slaves for mounting a successful rebellion and ultimately declaring it a "tie."
STAN LEE CAMEO
Dir. James Gunn
Stan the Man appears as a barber who uses a frighteningly elaborate contraption to cut Thor's hair.
FRAGMENTS
- In Japan, the title for this film is Mighty Thor: Battle Royale
- Hela is based on the Norse goddess Hel, a daughter of Loki and queen of the realm also known as Hel
- Elements of the film's narrative are based on the Marvel Comics "Planet Hulk" storyline
- Musical cues from Patrick Doyle's score for Thor, Brian Tyler's scores for Thor: The Dark World and Avengers: Age of Ultron are featured in key emotional and comedic moments throughout the film
- Chris Hemsworth's brother Luke Hemsworth, Matt Damon, and Sam Neill play Asgardian actors respectively portraying Thor, Loki, and Odin dramatizing a key scene from Thor: The Dark World for great comedic effect
- Hilariously, Thor's psychedelic introduction to the Grandmaster visually and musically references Mel Stuart's family classic Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory
- Hela reveals that the Infinity Gauntlet in Odin's weapons vault as seen in Thor is a fake
- This is the first Marvel Studios film in which Lou Ferrigno does not provide the voice for the Hulk as Mark Ruffalo performed the Hulk's dialogue, indicating that the Hulk's intelligence is increasing
- A subtle variation of The Lonely Man theme from the Incredible Hulk television series can be heard after Thor calls Hulk the "Stupid Avenger"
2017 | Dir. Taika Waititi | 130 Minutes
"I run towards my problems, not away from them, because that's what heroes do."
While fighting to prevent his prophetic visions of Asgard's destruction from coming to fruition, Thor is stranded on a hostile alien planet after a deadly encounter with Hela the unstoppable Goddess of Death. The displaced prince is unexpectedly forced to battle a "friend from work" for the entertainment of a madman. Meanwhile, Hela terrorizes the citizens of Asgard and sets her sights on conquering the cosmos. Thor quickly assembles an unlikely team consisting of allies new and old to return to Asgard, save his people, and defeat the evil goddess.
Influenced by the aesthetics of 70's and 80's sci-fi fantasy films, New Zealand comedy director Taika Waititi imbues the Thor's third cinematic solo adventure with colorful Jack Kirby-esque production design and a great abundance of comedy. Between its brilliantly choreographed kinetic action sequences is a non-stop barrage of clever visual gags and hilarious dialogue - eighty percent of which was allegedly ad-libbed. The feature's funniest jokes chiefly feature unexpected callbacks to The Avengers, Thor: The Dark World, and Avengers: Age of Ultron. Thor: Ragnarok even manages tells a more affecting emotional story than the second film of the series, showing how much Thor has grown in wisdom and selflessness as a hero and a ruler through his clever and valiant actions.
The picture showcases some of the best set pieces of the Marvel Cinematic Universe to date, from the opening skirmish pitting Thor against the flaming demon Surtur and his minions - in which the virtual camera follows Mjolnir as it leaves Thor's hand smashing through enemies - to the lightning-charged climactic battle between the "Revengers" and Hela's undead legion (both sequences rousingly featuring Led Zeppelin's "Immigrant Song"). The gladiatorial match between Thor and the Hulk encapsulates the best qualities of Marvel Studios productions: inspired action, natural comedy and, above all, excellent character-driven storytelling made possible through years of commitment to continuity.
In his fifth appearance as the titular God of Thunder, Chris Hemsworth has never been funnier as Waititi's direction fully utilizes his impeccable comedic timing. As Thor's reluctant counterpart in this unconventional buddy comedy, Mark Ruffalo explores new facets of his recurring dual role playing the Hulk and Bruce Banner, alternating between the abrasively blunt green giant and the hapless scientist hilariously in-over-his-head. Though Tom Hiddleston doesn't bring much new to table reprising the role of the trickster Loki. As always, Hiddleston's best scenes are shared with Hemsworth's Thor, their chemistry as potent as ever. Idris Elba returns as the all-seeing Heimdall once again, finally a featured player in several action sequences. Reprising the role of Odin, Anthony Hopkins' brief appearance is more subdued than somber, though he appears to be genuinely enjoying himself as the Loki-disguised Odin early in the narrative. The film also features brief appearances from Marvel Studios regulars Ray Stevenson, Zachary Levi, Tadanobu Asano, and Benedict Cumberbatch reprising their respective roles as Volstagg, Fandral, Hogun, and Stephen Strange.
Taking complete ownership of the picture whenever she appears on screen, Cate Blanchett's delightfully sinister performance elevates Hela to the very top tier of Marvel Cinematic Universe villains. Tessa Thompson is believably fierce and fair as a drunken wayward Valkyrie. Jeff Goldblum is amusingly weird as the Grandmaster. The cast also features character actor Karl Urban as dimwitted the Asgardian Skurge with a serviceable character arc, frequent Waititi collaborator Rachel House as the Grandmaster's wary enforcer Topaz, Clancy Brown lends his voice to Surtur, and Waititi also offers his voice to the astoundingly soft-spoken stone gladiator Korg.
Packed with charm, humor, and spectacle, Thor: Ragnarok is undisputedly the best film of the Thor series. With radiant panache, the picture decisively sheds elements of the series that have become extraneous while paving the way towards an exciting new direction. Waititi's established comedic talent serves the production well, taking the cosmic and innately humorous qualities of the Marvel Studios' massive shared universe, and Thor's heroic journey, to new heights.
MID-CREDITS STINGER
Heading towards Earth on their spaceship, Thor reassures Loki that things will work out fine as they enter the shadow of a massive warship.
POST-CREDITS STINGER
On Sakaar, The Grandmaster stumbles off his craft and congratulates his former slaves for mounting a successful rebellion and ultimately declaring it a "tie."
STAN LEE CAMEO
Dir. James Gunn
Stan the Man appears as a barber who uses a frighteningly elaborate contraption to cut Thor's hair.
FRAGMENTS
- In Japan, the title for this film is Mighty Thor: Battle Royale
- Hela is based on the Norse goddess Hel, a daughter of Loki and queen of the realm also known as Hel
- Elements of the film's narrative are based on the Marvel Comics "Planet Hulk" storyline
- Musical cues from Patrick Doyle's score for Thor, Brian Tyler's scores for Thor: The Dark World and Avengers: Age of Ultron are featured in key emotional and comedic moments throughout the film
- Chris Hemsworth's brother Luke Hemsworth, Matt Damon, and Sam Neill play Asgardian actors respectively portraying Thor, Loki, and Odin dramatizing a key scene from Thor: The Dark World for great comedic effect
- Hilariously, Thor's psychedelic introduction to the Grandmaster visually and musically references Mel Stuart's family classic Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory
- Hela reveals that the Infinity Gauntlet in Odin's weapons vault as seen in Thor is a fake
- This is the first Marvel Studios film in which Lou Ferrigno does not provide the voice for the Hulk as Mark Ruffalo performed the Hulk's dialogue, indicating that the Hulk's intelligence is increasing
- A subtle variation of The Lonely Man theme from the Incredible Hulk television series can be heard after Thor calls Hulk the "Stupid Avenger"
Spider-Man: Homecoming
SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING
2017 | Dir. Jon Watts | 133 Minutes
"Someone's gotta look after the little guys, right?"
Shortly after assisting Tony Stark in Berlin, Peter Parker impatiently anticipates the call for the next Avengers mission, living a double life as a bright high school sophomore and the clumsy street-level costumed hero Spider-Man. One evening, Parker encounters a group of robbers with high-tech alien weaponry supplied by Adrian Toomes, a disgruntled former salvage worker who was forced out of his job after the Battle of New York. Driven by his sense of responsibility as a super-powered crime fighter, Parker refuses to heed Stark's warning to not get involved but quickly learns that Toomes is more dangerous than he could have anticipated.
What's unique about Spider-Man: Homecoming is that it is primarily a high school comedy very much inspired by John Hughes' seminal works such as The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller's Day Off. This new silver screen characterization of the classic comic book hero from director Jon Watts and his team of writers is refreshing in that Parker is a highly intelligent good-natured young man who, like many high school students, believes that school has become nothing more than a time-consuming chore he is all too ready to ditch in order to pursue his dream career in the real world. It just so happens that Parker's dream is to become an Avenger and that, for him, the real world beyond high school is the Marvel Cinematic Universe - a world that is overly abundant with lethal super technology and terrifying alien weapons.
Sparing the audience another super hero origin story, the film features a fully-formed but very young Spider-Man who amusingly still has much to learn about being a hero, and about life in general. He doesn't yet know the limits of his powers, afraid of heights, amusingly stumbling about when his web-shooters misfire. Parker narrowly manages to rescue his classmates when they are trapped in an unstable elevator at the Washington Monument, but it is a situation that he caused indirectly by asking his friend to conceal an alien artifact he did not fully understand. The film's most iconic action sequence in actuality highlights Parker's failure as a hero. Parker interrupts a high-tech arms deal but in doing so he blows an FBI sting operation and endangers the lives of numerous passengers on a ferry when a malfunctioning laser gun splits the ship in two. He also has trouble balancing his daily responsibilities, sacrificing his own personal happiness at every turn without hesitation to protect his corner of the world.
Played to perfection in his second outing as Parker following his brief appearance in Captain America: Civil War, Tom Holland's youthful energy, authentic emotional depth, and brilliant comedic timing make it very easy to root for his Spider-Man. Marisa Tomei also returns as Aunt May in a younger, hipper, but just as loving version of the character. Michael Keaton's performance as Adrian Toomes is a real pleasure to watch, truly captivating as an ambitious crook with relatable motivations. A twist late in the picture brings even more depth to the role and Keaton doesn't disappoint, elevating every scene shared with Holland's Peter Parker. Jacob Batalon brings a lot of comedic energy to the role of Ned, Parker's best friend and confidant who becomes his supporting "guy in the chair." As Liz, Parker's crush and captain of their school's academic decathlon team, Laura Harrier unfortunately doesn't have much to do. Conversely, singer and actress Zendaya is a scene-stealer playing the blunt and observant classmate Michelle, dropping hints for a potentially bigger role in forthcoming films. Tony Revolori plays stereotypical bully Flash Thompson though, defying convention, this film's Flash is not an athletic jock but an academic one.
In a purely supporting capacity, Robert Downey Jr. appears as Tony Stark in a handful of scenes, delivering some of the funniest lines. With more screen time than in past MCU films, Jon Favreau returns as Stark's bumbling assistant Happy Hogan, acting as a disinterested liaison between Parker and Stark. Chris Evans makes a brief appearance as Steve Rogers/Captain America in hilarious public-service-announcement-style recordings for Parker's high school. For one of the biggest laughs of the film, a phys. ed. teacher played by comedian Hannibal Buress is quick to dryly mention that Rogers is currently a war criminal (following the events of Civil War).
While the stakes are considerably lower than the average Marvel Studios adventure, Spider-Man: Homecoming is a funny and amusingly earnest take on the high school experience that also truly captures the appeal of one of the most beloved comic book heroes of all time. It's not a groundbreaking film, but Homecoming is the best cinematic take on Spidey in well over a decade. It's a great start for a new series of Spider-Man films, and a good sign for things to come for the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
MID-CREDITS STINGER
In prison, Toomes is confronted by criminal Mac Gargan, asking him if he knows Spider-Man's secret identity. Toomes chooses not to disclose it.
POST-CREDITS STINGER
In another recording for the students, Steve Rogers/Captain America speaks about the value of patience.
STAN LEE CAMEO
Stan the Man appears as a New York apartment tenant named Gary, shouting at Spider-Man from his window.
FRAGMENTS
- Completely foregoing Spider-Man's origin story and decidedly not retreading the death of Parker's Uncle Ben, this is the first Spider-Man film to not feature a scene with Parker sobbing uncontrollably, and definitely the first in which Spider-Man's antagonist doesn't die during the film's climax (in fact, Parker places himself in harm's way to save Toomes from certain death)
- Composer Michael Giacchino references Alan Silvestri's theme for The Avengers during the film's prologue set hours after the Battle of New York and when Peter enters the Avengers compound in upstate New York
- The Marvel Studios logo after the film's prologue was updated to include a shot of Spider-Man from Captain America: Civil War, and it features an orchestral version of the theme tune from the 1967 Spider-Man cartoon arranged by Michael Giacchino
- Pepper Potts, played once again by Gwyneth Paltrow, appears briefly near the end of the film, ready to introduce Spider-Man as an Avenger to the press but instead Stark announces their engagement with a ring that Happy apparently kept in his pocket since 2008
- Comedy actor Martin Starr, who previously appeared in The Incredible Hulk, plays academic decathlon coach Mr. Harrington; possibly reprising his previous MCU role depending on your personal head-canon...
- Previously appearing in Captain America: The First Avenger as Howling Commando Jim Morita, Kenneth Choi plays Principal Morita, the decedant of the war hero; photographs of his grandfather and the Howling Commandos can be seen in Morita's office
- Young actress Angourie Rice plays Betty Brant, a classmate of Parker's in this film and a regular Spider-Man character in Marvel Comics
- Bokeem Woodbine and Logan Marshall-Green play Toomes' underlings Herman Shultz and Jackson Brice respectively, established as different incarnations of the Spider-Man foe Shocker, using a modified version of Crossbones' gauntlet as seen in Captain America: Civil War
- Michael Chernus plays Toomes' "curious" engineer Phineas Mason, a villain known as the Tinkerer in Marvel Comics
- Criminal Aaron Davis, played by comedy actor Donald Glover, in one key scene mentions his cousin; comic book readers may know Davis as the uncle of Miles Morales, another Spider-Man
- Canadian actor Michael Mando, Vic on Orphan Black and Nacho Varga on Better Call Saul, appears as criminal Mac Gargan who sport a tattoo of a scorpion on his neck; Gargan is the alter ego of Spider-Man villain the Scorpion in Marvel Comics
- Kerry Condon returns as the voice of Stark's operating system FRIDAY
- Jennifer Connelly provides the voice of Parker's high-tech hero suit; Parker names the voice "Karen"; incidentally, Connelly played Betty Ross in Ang Lee's (non-MCU) Hulk
2017 | Dir. Jon Watts | 133 Minutes
"Someone's gotta look after the little guys, right?"
Shortly after assisting Tony Stark in Berlin, Peter Parker impatiently anticipates the call for the next Avengers mission, living a double life as a bright high school sophomore and the clumsy street-level costumed hero Spider-Man. One evening, Parker encounters a group of robbers with high-tech alien weaponry supplied by Adrian Toomes, a disgruntled former salvage worker who was forced out of his job after the Battle of New York. Driven by his sense of responsibility as a super-powered crime fighter, Parker refuses to heed Stark's warning to not get involved but quickly learns that Toomes is more dangerous than he could have anticipated.
What's unique about Spider-Man: Homecoming is that it is primarily a high school comedy very much inspired by John Hughes' seminal works such as The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller's Day Off. This new silver screen characterization of the classic comic book hero from director Jon Watts and his team of writers is refreshing in that Parker is a highly intelligent good-natured young man who, like many high school students, believes that school has become nothing more than a time-consuming chore he is all too ready to ditch in order to pursue his dream career in the real world. It just so happens that Parker's dream is to become an Avenger and that, for him, the real world beyond high school is the Marvel Cinematic Universe - a world that is overly abundant with lethal super technology and terrifying alien weapons.
Sparing the audience another super hero origin story, the film features a fully-formed but very young Spider-Man who amusingly still has much to learn about being a hero, and about life in general. He doesn't yet know the limits of his powers, afraid of heights, amusingly stumbling about when his web-shooters misfire. Parker narrowly manages to rescue his classmates when they are trapped in an unstable elevator at the Washington Monument, but it is a situation that he caused indirectly by asking his friend to conceal an alien artifact he did not fully understand. The film's most iconic action sequence in actuality highlights Parker's failure as a hero. Parker interrupts a high-tech arms deal but in doing so he blows an FBI sting operation and endangers the lives of numerous passengers on a ferry when a malfunctioning laser gun splits the ship in two. He also has trouble balancing his daily responsibilities, sacrificing his own personal happiness at every turn without hesitation to protect his corner of the world.
Played to perfection in his second outing as Parker following his brief appearance in Captain America: Civil War, Tom Holland's youthful energy, authentic emotional depth, and brilliant comedic timing make it very easy to root for his Spider-Man. Marisa Tomei also returns as Aunt May in a younger, hipper, but just as loving version of the character. Michael Keaton's performance as Adrian Toomes is a real pleasure to watch, truly captivating as an ambitious crook with relatable motivations. A twist late in the picture brings even more depth to the role and Keaton doesn't disappoint, elevating every scene shared with Holland's Peter Parker. Jacob Batalon brings a lot of comedic energy to the role of Ned, Parker's best friend and confidant who becomes his supporting "guy in the chair." As Liz, Parker's crush and captain of their school's academic decathlon team, Laura Harrier unfortunately doesn't have much to do. Conversely, singer and actress Zendaya is a scene-stealer playing the blunt and observant classmate Michelle, dropping hints for a potentially bigger role in forthcoming films. Tony Revolori plays stereotypical bully Flash Thompson though, defying convention, this film's Flash is not an athletic jock but an academic one.
In a purely supporting capacity, Robert Downey Jr. appears as Tony Stark in a handful of scenes, delivering some of the funniest lines. With more screen time than in past MCU films, Jon Favreau returns as Stark's bumbling assistant Happy Hogan, acting as a disinterested liaison between Parker and Stark. Chris Evans makes a brief appearance as Steve Rogers/Captain America in hilarious public-service-announcement-style recordings for Parker's high school. For one of the biggest laughs of the film, a phys. ed. teacher played by comedian Hannibal Buress is quick to dryly mention that Rogers is currently a war criminal (following the events of Civil War).
While the stakes are considerably lower than the average Marvel Studios adventure, Spider-Man: Homecoming is a funny and amusingly earnest take on the high school experience that also truly captures the appeal of one of the most beloved comic book heroes of all time. It's not a groundbreaking film, but Homecoming is the best cinematic take on Spidey in well over a decade. It's a great start for a new series of Spider-Man films, and a good sign for things to come for the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
MID-CREDITS STINGER
In prison, Toomes is confronted by criminal Mac Gargan, asking him if he knows Spider-Man's secret identity. Toomes chooses not to disclose it.
POST-CREDITS STINGER
In another recording for the students, Steve Rogers/Captain America speaks about the value of patience.
STAN LEE CAMEO
Stan the Man appears as a New York apartment tenant named Gary, shouting at Spider-Man from his window.
FRAGMENTS
- Completely foregoing Spider-Man's origin story and decidedly not retreading the death of Parker's Uncle Ben, this is the first Spider-Man film to not feature a scene with Parker sobbing uncontrollably, and definitely the first in which Spider-Man's antagonist doesn't die during the film's climax (in fact, Parker places himself in harm's way to save Toomes from certain death)
- Composer Michael Giacchino references Alan Silvestri's theme for The Avengers during the film's prologue set hours after the Battle of New York and when Peter enters the Avengers compound in upstate New York
- The Marvel Studios logo after the film's prologue was updated to include a shot of Spider-Man from Captain America: Civil War, and it features an orchestral version of the theme tune from the 1967 Spider-Man cartoon arranged by Michael Giacchino
- Pepper Potts, played once again by Gwyneth Paltrow, appears briefly near the end of the film, ready to introduce Spider-Man as an Avenger to the press but instead Stark announces their engagement with a ring that Happy apparently kept in his pocket since 2008
- Comedy actor Martin Starr, who previously appeared in The Incredible Hulk, plays academic decathlon coach Mr. Harrington; possibly reprising his previous MCU role depending on your personal head-canon...
- Previously appearing in Captain America: The First Avenger as Howling Commando Jim Morita, Kenneth Choi plays Principal Morita, the decedant of the war hero; photographs of his grandfather and the Howling Commandos can be seen in Morita's office
- Young actress Angourie Rice plays Betty Brant, a classmate of Parker's in this film and a regular Spider-Man character in Marvel Comics
- Bokeem Woodbine and Logan Marshall-Green play Toomes' underlings Herman Shultz and Jackson Brice respectively, established as different incarnations of the Spider-Man foe Shocker, using a modified version of Crossbones' gauntlet as seen in Captain America: Civil War
- Michael Chernus plays Toomes' "curious" engineer Phineas Mason, a villain known as the Tinkerer in Marvel Comics
- Criminal Aaron Davis, played by comedy actor Donald Glover, in one key scene mentions his cousin; comic book readers may know Davis as the uncle of Miles Morales, another Spider-Man
- Canadian actor Michael Mando, Vic on Orphan Black and Nacho Varga on Better Call Saul, appears as criminal Mac Gargan who sport a tattoo of a scorpion on his neck; Gargan is the alter ego of Spider-Man villain the Scorpion in Marvel Comics
- Kerry Condon returns as the voice of Stark's operating system FRIDAY
- Jennifer Connelly provides the voice of Parker's high-tech hero suit; Parker names the voice "Karen"; incidentally, Connelly played Betty Ross in Ang Lee's (non-MCU) Hulk
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